The End and a New Beginning

by Tsuyu no Inochi

Miroku's fate or Sango's destiny? Is there life after Naraku or will his treachery prevail? A look at the end that begins anew.

23. Volume II: Secrets

Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha; this is only a fanfic.

Authors Notes: It was one year ago this month that I began this fanfic. I hope you will all agree that my writing has improved since chapter 1 (I still have to go back and rewrite that). I would like to thank everyone who has stuck with me through bad writing, equally bad grammar, confused tenses; the list goes on. You guys have been awesome!

A special thanks to Ishimaru Amon formerly known as Demonslayer 205. As this is my anniversary edition, I am dedicating this chapter to you. From your first review on chapter 6, I knew you would be influential in the completion of this fic. We have agreed and disagreed, but the respect was (is) always there. You have challenged me on so many levels it's incredible; you're the reason this chapter is this long. You have never deserted me. Please enjoy and I hope I only tossed the wrench and not threw it at you, (re: Mayura) if you know what I mean.

Warning: Violence

Volume II-Anniversary Edition

Nou aru taka wa tsume wo kakusu

(The hawk with talent hides its talons)

Chapter 23: Secrets

Descending the stairs, Mayura stood for a moment and looked over the emptiness of the brothel. Only the house courtesans sat at the tables finishing their morning meal. Some would return to bed to prepare for the night ahead. Others, like her, would attempt to procure some normality into their existence.

"Where ya' headed May?" one of the women shouted.

"Just out to do some shopping," she responded and continued to the bottom of the stairs. "Has anyone seen Fujiko?"

"I saw her in the courtyard a moment ago," someone said.

With a wave, Mayura headed outside to find the young courtesan.She found her kneeling in the small garden hunched over an array of flowers. The young woman had a passion for them and spent as much time as she was able in the allotment.

"Fujiko," Mayura addressed her, "how are you today?"

"Same as always," the young woman solemnly replied.

"I have an esteemed client for you," the older woman began. "He comes highly recommended by Hajime-sama. I was wondering if you would entertain him this afternoon."

"If you're talking about that creep, Junnosuke, forget it."

"I would never be that insensitive, Fujiko. I know how you feel about him." The same as I, Mayura thought, but did not say aloud.

"So who is he?" The young woman stayed focused on her plants.

"According to Hajime, he's a monk of some sort."

Fujiko turned on hearing that and pinned Mayura with an impassive stare. "You're joking; right?"

"Sorry, I'm afraid not." The older woman smiled slightly as she watched the young woman mull this over. Fujiko was hard to read. She kept to herself and usually preferred the more abrupt and secretive clients. The less time she spent entertaining, the more time she spent gardening.

The young courtesan presented a stoic veneer, but Mayura knew her better. If she were to call any woman friend here, it would be Fujiko.

"How important is this?" the young woman.

"Well… Hajime seems to think…"

"I'm not talking about Hajime," Fujiko interrupted her. "I'm talking about you. How important is this to you?"

The two women exchanged a look before Mayura said, "My safety may depend on it."

Fujiko stood to her full height, her petite frame barely reaching Mayura's chest. Looking up into the older woman's eyes, she said in a bored tone, "Tell me."

xXxXx

Sitting outside, the newly united family had just finished breakfast when the hanyou announced he was leaving.

"I need to get back; Kagome's gonna have my head if I don't show up soon."

"Have your head?" Shun'ei parroted, unfamiliar with the metaphors from the future. "What does that mean?"

"It means she'd be so mad, when she sees me again, she's likely to chop it right off," Inuyasha said sarcastically.

"Oh, my!" Suiren exclaimed. "Is that how demon wives punish their husbands? Will your head grow back, Inuyasha-sama?"

Her father could not help but laugh at her questions and the little girl blushed furiously. Taking pity on his daughter, Miroku turned her to face him. "You see, aijou," her father cajoled. "Inuyasha's wife, Kagome-chan, is not a demon. She is a human, just like us."

"What?" the child screeched. "He has a human wife?"

"Yes," her father chuckled. "Her temper is almost as bad as mommy's." He slid a glance over to Sango and received a scorching stare. "However," Miroku continued with a smug smile. "Instead of thrashing him over the head with a heavy weapon, she has her own way of disciplining Inuyasha."

"What does she do?" Shun'ei asked in spite of vowing to converse, as little as possible, with the man that was his father.

"Do you see those beads," Miroku pointed to Inuyasha's neck. "They are called nenju and are magical. One word chanted by Lady Kagome and Inuyasha falls, face first, into the dirt and he can't get up until she stops."

Shun'ei's eyes widened and Suiren burst out laughing as they both pictured the gruff hanyou in that position.

"What word does she use, chichi-ue?" Suiren giggled.

"She says "Oswari!" the monk supplied. Suiren said the word repeatedly to see if it would work for her; this caused her father to laugh even more.

"Havin' fun, Miroku?" Inuyasha asked threateningly.

"Come on, Inuyasha," the monk said laughing. "I'm only entertaining the children." Catching his friend's eye, Miroku looked meaningfully at Shun'ei.

The hanyou understood immediately and decided to let the monk get away with this one, after all, it was for a good cause. Miroku was trying to bond with his son.

Sango was quiet throughout the exchange as the name 'Kagome' kept resounding in her head. The taijiya tried to put a face from her past to match the name. As an image flashed in her mind, pain flared up the back of her neck.

Biting her lip to keep from crying out, Sango rose and began clearing the table. She carried the bowls into the house and dumped them into a bucket for washing. Leaning her head against the wall, she tried to relax, but her head continued to throb.

"It hurts again; does it?"

Sango jumped slightly at hearing Miroku's voice. "It… it's all right," she lied and straightened from the wall, about to turn away.

"Come here." The monk's voice was gentle, but firm. Capturing her wrist, he turned her to face him. Sango stood still with her head bowed as he lifted his hands to her shoulders and began kneading the area. His fingers worked their way to the nape of her neck and plunged into her hair. Like magic, the pain gradually receded.

"Hmm," Sango purred and had the urge to snuggle into his arms.

"Better?" he asked.

"Yes… much," she sighed. "Thank you, Houshi-sama."

"I would use any excuse to hold you in my arms." He tugged gently and pulled her to him. Her body was stiff at first and then he felt her slowly relax against him. They stayed that way for a little while, arms encircled around each other. They listened as the twins badgered Inuyasha with a barrage of questions and the hanyou's stilted replies.

Miroku started to chuckle; Sango pulled back and looked questioningly at him. Seeing her silent query, the monk decided share the humor. He explained that Kagome and Inuyasha were about to have a child together and the hanyou was getting a taste of fatherhood first hand.

Sango smothered a laughed and nestled closer in her husband's arms. "Kagome…," she spoke softly, "I knew her; didn't I?"

"Yes," the monk nodded. Placing a finger under her chin, he lifted her head and looked into her eyes. "You two are good friends… almost like sisters. I can imagine her delight once she hears about you and the children."

Kagome would be ecstatic and although he could not wait to share the news, he wanted some time alone with his wife, to get to know his children. Miroku sensed that was one reason Inuyasha had decided to return home, that and missing his own wife.

"Once Inuyasha leaves there is much to discuss, Sango," the monk whispered. "There is so much I have to tell you… so much I want to say."

"I want to know everything about my children… to talk with them, find out what they like, what their opinions are. I want to teach them everything I know, everything I can and I want… to be close to my son."

Guilt washed over Sango; her eyes were sad as she looked to her husband. "I'm sorry, Houshi-sama," she said softly. "Shun'ei is perceptive to any kind of suffering. He senses another's distress and almost connects with it. It used to worry me that he became so absorbed, but it seems to make him feel… complete."

"I'm afraid our son feels 'you' will cause me more worry and he is concerned for me," she said and rushed on breathlessly. "He senses that I am… not yet… comfortable with you; he feels a need to protect me."

Miroku smiled down on his wife and his heart swelled with love for her. "It is a boy's nature to protect his mother; I see I will have to prove to my son that I mean you no harm and that I am worthy of you." He produced a wicked grin and his hand began making circular motions over her back and shoulders. "Now… let's see what we can do to make you comfortable with me. I don't want him bothered every time I do this…" His head lowered and he kissed her gently.

Sango's heart thumped wildly in her chest and she clung to him. The same sensations from yesterday assailed her and she melted in his arms. She let her body take over, leaving her mind free of thought and leaned in to take what he offered. The taijiya wanted to enjoy his attentions without any discomfort this time.

Sliding her hands along his forearms, up and over his shoulders, her fingers skimmed over the muscular contours of his physique. The billowing robes disguised the toned body underneath and Sango shamelessly continued her explorations.

Enraptured with the feel of her husband's body, the taijiya deepened their kiss. Her small hands moved from his shoulders, spread over his chest caressing the firm pectorals. Sango was unaware that her hands had moved lower until she heard Miroku gasps against her mouth.

The monk was pleased that his wife's desire for him had not lessened; they shared the same hunger for each other and he reveled in her touch. He had stopped questioning why this woman affected him this way a long time ago. This was simply the way it was between them.

In her passion, Sango grew bold and Miroku enjoyed every minute of it. However, once again, the time was not right. His body jerked to awareness as the hand at his hip slid across his abdomen and plunged lower.

Miroku reached between their bodies and with a groan, stilled her hand. "Not yet, aisai," he whispered close to her ear. "I want you just as much, my love, but we must wait a little longer… just until we are alone."

Ducking her head into his robes, Sango blushed profusely. How could she have behaved so wantonly, she thought? She felt Miroku rub her back in an apologetic manner, releasing the tension.

The children's voices penetrated and Sango stepped away from her husband. She lifted her eyes to his and spoke with a tremor in her voice. "You are wise, Houshi-sama, and I can't help but admire your control. We need to talk and I have many questions to ask, but I need one answered now, if you please."

"Don't put too much faith in 'my control'," Miroku smirked playfully. "I would like nothing more than to carry you from here and disappear into those woods until morning tomorrow, but we can't ... at least, not yet," he added meaningfully. "As far as your question; how can I refuse when you ask so nicely?"

She looked like a small child as she pondered her question or the best way to ask. Miroku smiled as he thought that Suiren, at this point, would have been more forward than her mother would.

"Did… we…" Sango began and took a deep breath before continuing. "Did we love each other, Houshi-sama? I mean… I feel the desire between us; but… was that all we had?"

Miroku swiftly closed the space between them and grabbed Sango's hands. "We 'do'… we do love each other!" he stated emphatically. "There is no doubt about that, my beautiful wife. I believe I have loved you from the beginning and have loved no other since."

"Only once have you confessed your love for me, but that was enough. If you never tell me again, I would still know it to be true."

"How… how would you know?" the taijiya asked, staring deep into his eyes.

"You had always shown me, Sango. It was reflected in your eyes, even when you glowered at me. It was in your touch, even when you slapped me and it was in your voice… even when you scolded me. I know, Sango… I know you love me."

He spoke the truth. Sango could feel the intensity of his words and they touched her deeply. Looking down on their hands clasped together, the taijiya felt a weight lifted from her.

It was a fear that would resurface occasionally. During her pregnancy, Sango often wondered if her children were conceived in love and now she knew they were. Their conception was not a duty or blind lust, but the result of two people joined in more than the act of love. Giving his hand a squeeze, the taijiya turned a bright smile on her husband.

"Come, my husband," she headed outside, pulling the monk along. "It's time to send Inuyasha on his way," she said with a lilt in her voice. "After all, we don't want Kagome to decapitate him."

xXxXx

From a rooftop in the village, Junnosuke watched her. The scout had followed Mayura's progress from the brothel that morning and into town. It was not on Hajime's orders that he trailed after the courtesan, he had sensed a change in her demeanor since last night and wondered at the cause.

He had arrived early to give his report on the houshi and caught Hajime just as he was leaving Mayura's rooms. As he stood talking with the daimyou, he discreetly watched the courtesan as she sat at her dressing table. From the reflection in her mirror, he could see a satisfied smirk on her face as she brushed her hair. It was quite a change from the fear he thought he had instilled the night before.

Junnosuke continued to watch as Mayura went from one shop to the next. It appeared she was simply browsing. Walking idly through the wares, she picked up items and then placed them back on the shelves. Out of five shops, she had yet to purchase anything.

Boredom had the scout relaxing back on the roof as Mayura made to enter yet another shop. Damn women and their indecisiveness, he thought as he closed his eyes briefly. It was that second that he missed seeing an arm snake out and snatch the courtesan into a narrow alleyway.

xXxXx

Mayura gasped and made to struggle against the steel grip on her wrist. Yanked into an empty space, she was then whirled around to face her assailant. Surprise registered and then annoyance.

"Oh… it's you; what do you want?" Mayura spat.

"Answers," they said simply.

xXxXx

Miroku, Sango and the twins gathered around the hanyou as he was about to depart.

"Will you take Kirara, Inuyasha?" Sango asked. Although she did not want to let go of her companion so soon, she knew it was Inuyasha's fastest transport home.

The children protested, they were already attached to the youkai cat.

"With Kirara's help," said Sango, "Inuyasha can reach his family quicker."

"How, mother?" Shun'ei asked, holding tight to the cat.

Sango reached over and plucked the cat from her son's arms. Tousling Shun'ei's hair, she looked over to her husband. "Shall we show them?"

"I'll let you do the honors," Miroku chuckled and steered Suiren in front of him.

Setting Kirara on the ground, Sango stepped back with her arm across Shun'ei's shoulders. Miroku, Suiren and Inuyasha moved close together. "All right, Kirara."

With a meow, the youkai cat began to transform. To the children, it appeared the cat was consumed in a ball of flames. Once the blaze diminished, they saw the cat in her true demon form.

Suiren squealed with delight, but backed up. Shun'ei stared in awe and slowly began to approach the enlarged cat. The boy stretched out his hand, stroked the cat's fur and he heard the low appreciative growl.

Seeing her brother's success, Suiren left the safety of her father's arms and tentatively approached also. In no time at all, the little girl was just as enthralled as her brother was. With one on each side, the children showered attentions on Kirara's increased head and ears.

"Inuyasha-sama," Suiren called out. "Do you plan to ride Kirara all the way home?"

"Naw," the hanyou responded. "We're gonna fly."

"Fly!" the twins exclaimed in unison.

"Yes." Sango joined in. "Kirara is a neko-youkai; one of her abilities is flying. Would you like to see?"

"Oh yes, mother!" Shun'ei stepped forward with Suiren holding the back of his keso and nodding vigorously.

The thought of being astride her companion and riding the skies again had her excited; Sango moved eagerly towards Kirara. Turning to Miroku, her smile faltered. The monk watched his son's smile with unguarded wonder and love. She had had six wonderful years with her children and now it was his turn; she would not be selfish.

"Houshi-sama."

Miroku's smile was still in place as he turned to Sango. "Yes, my love." The endearment came naturally, she noticed. The way it made her feel erased the disappointment she felt at relinquishing her ride.

"Before Inuyasha leaves, would you take the children for a ride on Kirara?"

"But…"

"Please?"

Their eyes communicated. Miroku realized what she was offering and his gaze expressed his love and gratitude. Sango acknowledged it with a slight bow and a smile.

"Well now, who would…" the monk began, but was interrupted.

"Me! Me!" both children chorused.

Laughing, Miroku picked up Suiren and placed her on Kirara's back. As he turned back for Shun'ei, he watched as the boy jumped effortlessly onto the youkai cat's back. The monk felt cheated until his son, with a sheepish grin, offered his hand to help him up.

"I can see you have your mother's sense of humor, Shun'ei," Miroku grinned back. With Shun'ei taking the lead, Suiren in the middle and their father behind, Kirara took to the skies with a lusty growl.

Sango and Inuyasha watched from below as the youkai cat performed aerial maneuvers that had the children squealing with delight. Miroku used his shakujou to keep them balanced.

"I told ya' everything would be all right," Inuyasha sniffed.

"Yes," Sango sighed softly, "yes, you did."

Later that morning, the small family waved as Inuyasha flew off on Kirara. Turning to his wife and children, the monk decided it was time for their long overdue discussion.

"Everyone, please come with me," he asked and guided them to the engawa. Miroku sat and pulled Suiren onto his lap. Sango and Shun'ei were seated across from them, the mother pulling her son close to her side.

"I would like to tell you two a story about your mother and me," Miroku addressed his children. "This is the best way to explain why I have not been in your lives until now. Afterwards, I will answer any questions you have and I promise to answer with honesty. All right?"

They all looked to one another. The children knew this was serious, even Suiren was quiet and attentive. With a brief nod from Sango to continue, Miroku began his tale.

"Once upon a time, there was a villain named Naraku…"

He told his children about the evil that brought their parents together. He explained how they banded together as one to defeat their foe. Through their father's voice, the children were introduced to Inuyasha, Kagome, Shippo and their uncle Kohaku was mentioned, briefly.

The children were overwhelmed and appalled by the hardships their parents faced while tracking this bad half demon. They became acquainted with more allies Kikyou, Kouga, Ayame and even Sesshomaru; a host of villains, both demon and human, were added to the list.

Shun'ei slid an arm around his mother's waist as he felt her tremble beside him. "Mother… are you all right?"

"Sango…" Miroku halted his story and slid close to his wife. "If it's too much for you, I can stop," he whispered.

"No, don't!" She raised tear-stained eyes to his. "Please… go on."

Miroku continued, but added humorous antidotes along the way. He had not yet informed Sango that Kohaku was still alive, knowing that would be the most traumatic revelation for her. The monk had deliberately omitted Kohaku from part of his story. His wife believed her brother had died at Kagewaki's castle and for now, he would leave it at that. It was too risky to tell her now and in front of the children.

The monk realized that part of Sango memory lapse had a lot to do with her little brother. Thanks to information from Kagome's schoolbooks, Miroku had learned a lot about the illness. Sango's condition was called 'amnesia', which Inuyasha had confirmed earlier. This was usually brought on by head trauma, which Rie confirmed Sango had when they found her.

As Miroku recounted the last day of battle with Naraku, he informed them without the graphic details, of Sango's fall. "I looked for her for three days and nights and I thought she was lost to me. If I knew…" the monk's voice broke, "… for one moment that you were here, nothing would have kept me away," he said passionately. Looking to his wife and children he added, "You must believe that."

The taijiya shivered as the jumbled puzzle of her mind was pieced together. Some things were still unclear, the more intense the circumstances, the more elusive the vision. Her head ached uncontrollably, but she held it together because of the children. Besides, Miroku was in pain now, her husband needed comforting. Pushing her distress aside, Sango reached for him.

Pulling him into her arms, she lightly stroked his hair. "That's enough for now, Houshi-sama." She rocked him like a child and held him tight.

"There's more…"

"No… not today," she interrupted.

"But…"

"No, chichi-ue." Shun'ei placed a hand on his father's shoulder. "No more today, we will speak of this later… maybe tomorrow."

Miroku turned from his wife's command to his son's soothing request. The boy had stood and moved behind him and the monk placed his hand on top of Shun'ei's. The monk noticed the child had called him 'father' for the first time.

As he stared up at his son, Miroku recalled what Sango had said about Shun'ei's ability to sense distress and putting that person at ease. Although the boy did not smile, it was something in the depth of his eyes that one responded to, as he responded now.

Shun'ei stepped back as his father rose to his feet. Suiren was quiet, but held tight to her father's robes. Sango stood also and faced her husband.

"Forgive me," Miroku said as he stared into Sango's eyes.

"There is nothing to forgive, my love," she whispered back.

"Miroku-sama!"

The family of four turned, as the young monk Tsuneo came through the forest and bounded up to them. "Good morning, everyone!" he said cheerfully. "I'm sorry to interrupt Sango-sensei," he bowed to the taijiya, "but your husband has been requested to attend a meeting with one of the daimyo's at noon." Guilt had him informing the wife, instead of the husband.

Sango looked confused, if the message was for Miroku; why was he giving it to her? "Oh… well, of course," she stuttered and looked to her husband.

"Which official, Tsuneo-san?" the older monk asked.

"Hajime Asano-sama."

Her husband did not look pleased, Sango thought, but she stayed quiet.

"Did he say why and where?" Miroku questioned.

"Well… as to why, I hope they have found a solution to the Gekokujo dilemma and as for where… uh…" Tsuneo looked to Sango and flushed. "I will go with you," he said evasively.

With his mind on the recent conversation with his family, Miroku mistook his young charge's caginess as impatience. "Well… it is almost noon now," the older monk said. "I guess we should be going." He turned to his wife and attempted a smile. "Sango…"

"It's all right, Houshi-sama." She moved closer to him. "We can walk with you as far as the village. The children and I will visit Rie and after you finish your business, we can return… together."

Miroku detected a hidden meaning in her words; he looked down on her upturned face and indeed noticed expectancy in her expression. "Yes, Sango," he whispered and caressed her cheek. "That sounds… nice."

"Good," said Tsuneo. "Come, young ones," he addressed the children. Suiren and Shun'ei fell in step with the others.

The twins smiled as they watched their father reached out and slid an arm around their mother's waist, pulling her close to his side. They smiled even more to see her smile in response and a blush spread across her cheeks.

"Look, nii-chan," Suiren pointed to their mother and father. "See how happy he makes her!"

"All right, imouto-chan," Shun'ei shot his sister an exasperated look as he continued walking.

"Yes… he makes me happy too," the boy added silently.

xXxXx

Lying back on the roof, Junnosuke noted Mayura had been in that one shop for a while now. Maybe she had finally decided to buy something. He felt foolish now for following her, it was clear she was simply shopping. However, it was instilled in him to follow his first impulses.

The rustling sounds of her gown notified him of her presence. It was her, Junnosuke could tell, the silk from her gown sounded different from the coarse fabric of the village women. Sitting up, he became aware that after the first few steps, Mayura began to run.

Where was the woman going in such a hurry? Junnosuke sat up, but did not move until she made it to the outskirts of the village. Following inconspicuously, he saw she was headed back to the brothel. Now knowing her destination, he raced ahead of her.

The scout was puzzled and then his lips spread into a malicious grin. The woman was some piece of work. Not only had she attributed to this Miroku's downfall, she actually wanted to be there to see it. It was originally planned that Mayura she would not attend the defilement; she had turned the monk over in the capable hands of the younger girl, Fujiko.

When the courtesan reached the brothel, Junnosuke sat beneath a tree in the courtyard with his legs stretched out. His jingasa was set low, covering his face. With his arms crossed, he appeared to be resting. Mayura passed right by, without looking his way and entered the house.

Smiling to himself, the scout thought he had never seen the cool, composed woman so anxious. If this sort of thing excited her, they were in for some good times together. Personally, he wanted Hajime's plans to succeed. He would also benefit from the daimyo's achievements.

Once his master climbed higher in rank, it would be considered beneath Hajime to return to this village and Mayura. That left the field clear for him; his body responded as he remembered the soft texture of her skin in his hands and he gave a semblance of a smile. Just wait, Mayura… just you wait.

xXxXx

Mayura rushed back to the brothel. Her usually meticulous hairstyle was askew and her clothes were less than pristine in her haste. As she ran, she thought of the irony of her life. Was anything ever easy? She had never asked for much, she only wanted to be happy and content with the love of one man.

On two occasions she had offered her heart on a platter; Sai had taken it and carved it into tiny pieces, but it was her first love that had left it to rot.

Takashi had made her believe in dreams again, he had made her realize she was more than a mere 'object of desire'. Mayura had learned, through him, there was a brain in her beautiful head and had taught her to use it. He had also exposed the bitterness she felt towards her family and had helped her conquer it.

The courtesan had convinced herself that she no longer cared about her father's cruelty. She had thought herself indifferent to the last image she had of her mother. The woman had simply turned away and never uttered a word of protest as her eldest child was taken away. Instead, she had stayed silent and cowered behind the man responsible.

Under Takashi's guidance, Mayura realized the hopeless life her estranged parents led. Through him, she recalled the constant arguments during her childhood. No matter how many times her father returned home drunk and penniless, their mother still treated him as master of the house and hastened to do his bidding. The woman's entire existence rested on the man that was her father, but the man cared for nothing but his gambling and carousing. If anything, her mother was the one to be pitied.

"A woman's happiness is first and foremost," Takashi used to say. His words rang strong in her ears now as she entered the brothel. With the other women looking on in surprise, Mayura took the stairs two at a time and hurried down the hall to her rooms. Slamming the shoji closed, she took a moment to lean back and catch her breath.

Eyes sparkling with determination, Mayura turned to her dressing table and plopped down in front of her mirror. Reaching for her combs, she began rearranging her hair and then she would choose her best kimono.

This would be the final performance for Mayura - high rank Asobimi. There was much to do and she was fearful that her plan would not be successful, but she would not be swayed.

"A woman's happiness is first and foremost."

It was Sango's happiness at stake this time. She would not have been able to forgive herself if she had caused her 'Angel' grief. At least she could spare one family from another's selfish goals. Hajime would have to set his sights elsewhere, there was no way she would allow him to harm Sango's family… she would protect them with her life.

xXxXx

Tsuneo squirmed nervously and rubbed his damp palms down the side of his hakamas. He had never been inside a brothel before. Once he and Miroku arrived, they were announced, immediately taken to a private room and were now awaiting the daimyo's presence.

"Calm yourself, Tsuneo-san," Miroku chuckled. "This should not take long. Hajime-sama probably wants to inform us of the next meeting. Although, it is most likely he's trying to intimidate us as well."

"Surely the messenger could have told us that," the young monk retorted. "I don't see why we had to come here."

Neither did Miroku, but he refrained from saying anything more. Tsuneo was already uneasy about being here; the young monk thought that any moment Buddha would strike him down for his attendance.

The entire arrangement seemed strange to Miroku. Tsuneo had filled him in on the details after leaving Sango and the children at Rie's. He was thankful the young monk withheld that bit of information while with his family. He and Sango's relationship was still fragile and he could guarantee she would not be pleased.

The meetings were usually held at the largest residence in the village. The other daimyo's were present and the military acted as guard, therefore this was most unusual. A one on one discussion with Hajime-sama and in a brothel was not the way to conduct business.

The shoji slid open and a young woman entered the room and kneeled. She moved to the side as two more women entered; one carried a tray of food and the other sake. The trays were set down and the servers exited the room. The young woman closed the shoji and then turned to her guest.

"Welcome, monks," she greeted. "My name is Fujiko and I am to entertain you until Hajime-sama arrives. I am sorry to say he has been delayed."

The woman's words were insincere and she sounded rehearsed, Miroku thought. However, he displayed his most charming smile as Fujiko sat across from them. She wore the most becoming silver kimono on her small frame. Her hair was piled high with soft tendrils framing her face. She began serving the food, but when she began to pour the sake, Miroku raised his hand to stop her.

"Don't bother, Lady Fujiko," he told her pleasantly, "it's a bit early for that."

"Oh…" the young woman looked flustered, but recovered and smiled that practiced smile. Before she could set the flask back in its place, she looked up as Tsuneo's empty bowl appeared under her nose.

"This is most delicious; may I have more?" the young monk had cleaned his bowl and held it out, arms extended as he bowed.

Fujiko eyes went wide, he must have inhaled his food.

"Tsuneo-san…" began Miroku.

The young monks face fell as he thought he was about to be reprimanded for his crude manners. "I'm sorry, Miroku-sama, I missed the morning meal." He pouted like a small child.

Miroku smiled indulgently at his friend's expression when a tinkling laugh caught their attention. The monks looked over to see the first real smile Fujiko produced. The girl was filling Tsuneo's bowl again, she passed it to him with one hand and covered her smile in the sleeve of her kimono with the other.

Fujiko watched Tsuneo attack that bowl too, she then turned to Miroku. "He has quiet an appetite; doesn't he?" As the older monk smiled and nodded, the young courtesan looked him over. He was handsome with his dark tousled hair and blue eyes. There was a distinguished air about him also. She was surprised that Mayura would turn away such a client. Although he was her target, Fujiko's eyes kept straying to the young monk named Tsuneo.

Fujiko guessed he was no older than she was; he was of medium height with a clean-shaven head. His boyish face held a cheerfulness and innocence that she envied. His eyes were so dark; they blended with his pupils and reflected zest and honesty.

She had forgotten what it was like to relax and be yourself. Fujiko liked the candidness of the young monk's approach. It was refreshing to see someone not schooled in the art of deception. She became wary when it was announced that there were two monks instead of the one she expected. As much as she was enjoying this, she had a job to do. Sliding close to Miroku, she bowed and then said, "I would be honored to help you relax, Houshi-sama, until Hajime-sama arrives."

Tsuneo's chopsticks stopped moving. The young monk turned just as Fujiko raised her hands to Miroku's shoulders. He frowned as he grabbed her hands in mid-air. "What are you about?" the young monk hissed. "I'll have you know Miroku-sama is a married man."

"Married?" The young woman gasped. "Monks marry?" Fujiko's hands were held in an iron grip as she looked at the older monk. Miroku's eyes were closed and he appeared to be meditating. His arms were crossed with the shakujou across his lap, however, the small smile on his lips revealed his amusement.

"I believe we have been brought here under false pretenses, Miroku-sama," Tsuneo said huffily.

"That is correct," a voice said from the doorway. All three occupants looked towards the open shoji as another woman entered the room. She reached behind and shut the shoji with a snap.

The woman was tall, taller than Sango. Her hair was abundant and done in an intricate style. She was a bit older, but she had a youthful appearance and she was, without a doubt, beautiful. Her kimono was the softest yellow with designs of brown Cranes interwoven at the collar, wrist and hem; the fabric was held together by a brown obi at her waist. She had a commanding presence and everyone, including Miroku, found himself or herself rising to his or her feet on her entrance.

"Miroku," she acknowledge with an elegant bow. "I am Mayura."

With a smile, the older monk returned her bow and then asked, "Have we met before, Lady Mayura? I would be inconceivable that I could forget our acquaintance."

"It's unfortunate, but no." The courtesan beamed under his assessment. "However, I am acquainted with your wife, Sango. Also, your children, Suiren and Shun'ei."

The smile left Miroku's face and his body tensed. "What do you know of my family?" His voice was low and ominous.

"Relax, houshi," Mayura laughed. "My intentions are honorable, although the young one is correct in his assumption." She nodded towards Tsuneo. "You were indeed lured here."

"Why?" Tsuneo asked and then realized he still held tight to Fujiko's hands. He dropped them suddenly and a blushed spread over his cheeks before turning to Mayura. "What are Hajime-sama's intentions," he demanded.

"Not here," Mayura said her face suddenly serious, "we can't talk here." A sharp rapping sounded on the closed shoji and the courtesan, smile back in place, opened it.

"You're carriage is ready, Mayura-chan," one of the grooms informed her. "It's just outside."

"Thank you." She tossed a mon to the young boy.

"Shall we go," Mayura turned to the two monks. Neither man moved. Dropping her façade, she said urgently, "You have no reason to trust me, but you must." Still no response. "Your beautiful, noble wife, Sango," she appealed to Miroku, "once saved my life and I consider her a friend. Your daughter Suiren is lively and spirited and I see now where she gets her good looks. Shun'ei… well what can I say about your son; the boy is truly special."

"Please, houshi," entreated Mayura. "You must come; it is the only way to explain."

"All right, Lady Mayura," Miroku sensed her sincerity and it seemed she knew Sango and the twins personally. "But… I too have questions."

"Fair enough, but we must hurry," she said. "We have an appointment to keep."

Mayura, with Miroku and Tsuneo turned to leave; the courtesan hesitated and turned back to younger one. "I'm sorry, Fujiko, I will explain later."

"No need," the young woman responded. "The less I know the better." Before they left the room, Fujiko singled out the young monk. "Sayonara, Tsuneo-san, it was nice meeting you."

Her melodious voice floated over him and the monk blushed furiously. "Uh… it was… um, likewise." He bowed quickly and scrambled from the room.

xXxXx

As the carriage pulled away from the brothel, the occupants inside were unaware of being observed. Junnosuke stared after the departing carriage with a scowl on his face. He had questioned the stable hand, but the boy knew nothing. What, the hell, was Mayura doing?

"Mayura-san asked us to prepare the carriage, but she did not say where she or her friends were going."

The scout scowled deeper; he did not like last minute changes. Something was amiss and the courtesan had a hand in whatever was going on. Last night, he had finally breached her defenses and had felt her fear. However, she had rebounded quickly enough. He recalled the smug expression she wore earlier and cursed himself for heeding it.

Did the woman think she could get rid of him by replacing Hajime with another prestigious client? Mayura would soon find out it would not be that easy.

Junnosuke did not see the need to follow them. He could do more damage by causing a rift between his master and the courtesan. How would Hajime react to the knowledge that Mayura had taken his archrival as her lover? It would be a tremendous blow to his pride.

Smiling at his ingenuity, the scout located his horse, mounted and headed in the other direction. Poor Mayura, she had underestimated her opponent.

xXxXx

Rie sat across from her friend and watched her transformation in awe. A new woman sat before her. Bantering lightly with Akio, the taijiya smiled more in one setting, than she ever had before.

Sango and the children had spent the afternoon at the teahouse. Ichiro, Yamoto and Chisato came by to play with Suiren and Shun'ei. The little girl wasted no time informing them that the monk they met yesterday was their father.

Suiren was, as always, Suiren. Rie looked on as she captivated her audience, glamorizing the tale of their family's reunion. Even Shun'ei appeared a bit more relaxed. However, Sango and the twins were caught constantly watching the road for any sign of the monk's return.

"So… how is married life?" Rie teased.

Sango, who was staring off into space with a secretive smile at her lips, jumped at the old woman's voice. "I'm sorry, Oba-sama," the taijiya responded. "Did you say something?"

"Sure did. I asked how you liked that husband of yours."

"Oh… I… well, he's… nice," Sango finished lamely and blushed.

"Nice!" Rie cackled. "That's the devil dressed in gorgeous and I think you well know it."

"He is quite handsome, Sango-chan," Nari piped in. "From what Akio told me, you two got reacquainted really fast."

"Akio…" Sango growled a warning and blushed some more.

"Hey!" He held his hands up in mock surrender. "Don't look at me, Oba told your all of your 'would be' suitors that you were no longer available." As an after thought, Akio turned to Nari. "What do you mean he's handsome?" he teased his fiancée.

"Not more handsome than you, Akio-kun," Nari smiled indulgently at her love.

"That's my girl," he returned smugly.

Afternoon turned to early evening and Miroku had yet to return. Although she did not say anything, Sango began to worry. The mood had affected the twins as well. By the time their friends left, even the lively Suiren could no longer keep up the pretense.

"Chichi-ue is coming back; isn't he Haha-ue?" the despondent child asked.

"Of course," Sango said with conviction. "Just you wait, he'll return any moment with that charmingly stupid smile. He will then beg our forgiveness for keeping us waiting."

In her subconscious, she knew Houshi-sama would return to her. There was not a doubt in her mind.

"How well you know me, my love," Miroku spoke from the doorway. "Should I start groveling now?"

That wonderful voice. Sango whirled around in her seat and Suiren and Shun'ei jumped to their feet and ran to their father. The taijiya followed behind and waited for the children too have their fill of him. Her eyes were glued to him, as he straightened from the twin's level. He stood and barely had time open his arms, before she walked into them.

Leaning her head on his chest, she whispered for his ears alone, "You had me worried."

Miroku pulled back and looked into his wife's eyes. "I did not mean to," he said stroking her hair. It seemed his plans to continue their reunion would be delayed once again. The last few hours revealed the monk had unknowingly placed his newfound family in danger. At first light tomorrow, he was sending Sango and the children to Mushin's temple and safety. He would have to stay behind and see his plans through.

"Sango."

The way he said her name had Sango lifting her head in alarm. She looked into those blue orbs, ordinarily full of life, and their dullness frightened her. "Houshi-sama, what is it?"

She rose up on her toes to envelope him in a hug. Lifting her arms, she looked over his shoulder and into Mayura's eyes.

xXxXx

The carriage rocked and swayed as the horses flew down the road and back to the village. The trio had accomplished what they set out to do and the wheels had been set in motion.

Miroku sat across from the silent Mayura and was impelled to ask, "What will you do now, Mayura-san? After this, you will no longer be safe at the brothel."

"I have made plans, houshi," the woman said with a smile that did not reach her eyes. 'In this business, I have learned to expect and prepare for unusual circumstances."

"I can well believe that," Miroku said firmly and reflected on the events of the day…

While traveling, Mayura had explained how she and Sango became friends. The monk's heart swelled with pride on hearing how his wife aided the woman. Another thing that had not changed about her; Sango was still the avenger.

Hajime's intentions to use the members of the Buddhist sect for his own profit were also revealed and this angered Miroku. How many of the other daimyo's were involved in this scheme, he wondered? When Mayura announced they were on their way to see yet another daimyo, Miroku had to ask, "Are you sure you can trust this person?"

"Yes… I'm sure, or we would not be going," she said.

Tsuneo was unusually quiet. The young man was unused to mystery, intrigue and a visit to a local brothel. It was probably too much for him all at once.

"Is something wrong, Tsuneo-san?" Miroku inquired.

"Just wondering," he answered absently, watching the passing scenery. Suddenly, he sat up and asked, "Are we headed to Ota Castle?"

Mayura only smiled.

Once they arrived, Mayura, Miroku and Tsuneo were led to a large chamber. A servant seated them and they were left to await their host.

"Remember what we discussed, houshi," Mayura whispered. Miroku could only nod before two men entered the room.

The taller, well dressed of the two, sat directly across from his guest. His companion was a high rank monk, according to his robes; he remained standing.

"Greetings," the seated man spoke. "It is my understanding that you are here on an urgent matter."

Miroku looked to Mayura. The woman sat quiet, her hands folded demurely in her lap and her eyes cast down. She was quite an actress, he thought before launching into his tale. It was left to him to inform Lord Tokugawa of Hajime's treachery.

Both the lord and senior monk listened with interest as Miroku spoke of the failed Gekokujo meetings and the coercion tactics of Hajime's regime. He also told Mayura's revelations. Miroku watched as Lord Tokugawa slid discreet glances to the courtesan, but not once did he question her presence. The monk had a good idea of how they were given an audience so quickly.

"Thank you, Mayura-san," Miroku said, roused from his thoughts, "for protecting us."

"Sango did the same for me," she smiled. "If I lived to be a hundred; I could never repay my 'angel'."

"Angel…" Miroku stroked his chin as he considered his wife's new epithet. "I like it," he said. "It's very befitting. Do you mind if I borrow it sometimes," the monk said with a sly smile.

"I'm counting on it," Mayura's eyes sparkled, clearly reading the monk's lustful intentions for his wife. Sango was a lucky woman; this man still loved her deeply, even after a seven-year absence. With his good looks and charm, she was sure many women over the years had tried to breech that barrier, but his feelings had remained true to the taiiya.

"I was surprised that Tsuneo-san stayed behind," Mayura changed the subject. "Did he tell you why?"

"I believe our time spent together has opened his eyes to the realities of the world. I'm afraid it was not pleasant," Miroku continued. "I left him in the care of Lord Tukugawa's companion, the monk Yoshio, back at the castle. That way he can spend time with the warrior monks of the Negoro-gumi."

"He can pray, meditate and cleanse his soul…" Mayura's throaty chuckle interrupted the monk's statement. "What?" Miroku asked, perplexed by her amusement.

The courtesan took a moment to pull herself together and smothered a laugh. "If he's with the senior monk, I would not count on it," she said. "How do you think we were seen so quickly? It was Yoshio-sama, not Lord Tukugawa that was a former client of mine."

xXxXx

The family was quiet on their walk from the teahouse back to Sango's home. Miroku carried Suiren on his back, Sango and Shun'ei walked on each side of him.

"Do you think Mayura-san will be all right, chichi-ue?" Shun'ei asked suddenly.

"I believe so, my son," answered Miroku. "Mayura is an intelligent woman and very resourceful. She has made arrangements, she told me so."

Yes… but, I sensed she was still upset," the boy informed his father. "She was not telling us everything, I'm sure of it."

"I don't have Shun'ei's perception, Houshi-sama, but I believe he's right," Sango added. "She was edgy and Mayura is very good at concealing her feelings."

"I noticed something too," Suiren piped in. "Mayura-chan always looks you straight in the eye when she talks to you, but she did not do that today."

Miroku thought this over and could not dispute what his family was telling him. After all, they had known the woman longer than he had and knew her habits.

"After I see you off to Mushin's temple tomorrow, I will go to check on her. Is that all right?" Miroku asked.

"That's all you'd better do," Sango mumbled under her breath, before tossing her head and moving ahead of her husband.

The monk's steps faltered. It seemed Sango's memory was returning gradually. However, she knew what was going on and that he was not out philandering. She knew the reason he was out with Mayura today. There was no reason for her to be jealous. He hastened to catch up to her.

"Sango…" The taijiya ignored him.

"Sango, listen… please," he tried again.

Sango continued walking, but cast a glance her husband's way and then meaningfully at Suiren. Their daughter's eyes, as well as her ears, were wide open.

"Are you two fighting?"

"No!" Both parents said at once. "Let's just hurry home, it's getting late," Sango said and sent another glare to Miroku.

This time the monk took the lead. The last thing he wanted was to be isolated from his wife tonight. With her leaving in the morning, he did not want to waste time arguing. However, they could not talk in front of the children. With a sigh, he continued toward the house.

Following behind, the taijiya smiled secretly. She was only teasing him; didn't he know that? Although, she had to admit, seeing him with Mayura had thrown her a bit. After hearing of their quest together, Sango felt ashamed of original thoughts. The courtesan was protecting them, but at what cost.

She recalled their discussion at the teahouse…

"How did you know he was my husband?" Sango asked and looked over at the monk in conversation with Akio and Rie. "I only just discovered yesterday."

"I'm afraid I can't tell you that," Mayura said. "Just know I would never allow you or the children to be hurt, not if I could stop it."

Mayura did tell her of Hajime's animosity and plans for Miroku, the orchestrated meeting at the brothel, their rush to Ota Castle and her plans to leave before Lord Tukugawa's regime arrived to attend the next Gekokujo meeting.

"I don't want to be around when he confronts Hajime, I'm sure he will have good idea where the information came from."

"Are you in danger, Mayura?" Sango said anxiously. "You are more than welcome to stay with us or even here at the teahouse. I know you and Rie don't get on that well, but she would not want to see you hurt."

Mayura looked over at the old woman. She sat next to her grandson, listening attentively to Miroku. Rie looked up, caught Mayura's eyes, and frowned.

"No… I'll be fine; I'm not in any danger." She looked down a her hands. "You just take care of yourself and your family, especially that husband of yours. He's a real looker, Angel, and so devoted to you. That must truly be wonderful. I'll bet your reunion was something spectacular." Mayura couldn't help but rib Sango as she teased.

"Well… actually, ah… we haven't…"

"Well, what the hell are you waiting?" Mayura scowled. "The man has not seen his wife in years and yet he waits, instead of claiming his husbandly rights. When he speaks of you, your name is a caress on his lips. Oh, Sango-chan…" Mayura sighed and her eyes softened. "Do you not realize what you have? You have, right now, what some people never find in a lifetime. I envy you, my friend."

Sango sat pondering her friends words, long after her carriage pulled away.

The taijiya returned to the present as the house came into view. Both children were tired; although awake, Suiren's eyelids were heavy and Shun'ei was still upright, but could not stop yawning. First, she would bathe and put the children to bed and then she would tackle her hardest task yet… seducing her husband.

xXxXx

Inuyasha climbed out of the well in Kagome's time. Looking up at the second story window, he could see his wife's light was still on. "Damn it!" he cursed his luck. She was probably up reading. He was hoping to ease in tonight and make explanations in the morning, but…

Going through the back door, the hanyou crept slowly up the staircase. Maybe she was asleep. Opening the door to their bedroom, Inuyasha knew his luck had run out as a shoe hit him in the center of his forehead.

"Kagome…" Was all he could manage, as she pummeled him with every shoe that she owned.

"Where have you been?" she snapped as she ran out of ammunition, however, she was looking around for something else to throw.

Seeing an opening, Inuyasha flew across the room and snatched up his wife, cradling her close to him. Kami… he missed her. The explanations would have to wait as he inhaled her scent and lowered her to the bed.

"I have a lot to tell ya', Kagome-chan," he whispered in her ear and stroked the small bulge of her tummy. "But, right now…" his dark eyes stared down into hers, "… I need you."

"This is only a reprieve, Inuyasha," she said seductively, burrowing her fingers in his dark hair. "I had to make up two days of excuses to your boss, so you owe me."

"Hmm." Inuyasha's lips found the sensitive point behind her ear. "Do ya' think he bought it?"

"Of course," Kagome purred, thinking of her grandfather and his invented illnesses when she had missed school. "After all, I learned from the best."

xXxXx

Entering her rooms, Mayura removed her elegant kimono, sat at her dressing table only in her hadagi and began removing her hair ornaments. After brushing her hair, the courtesan pulled it back into a simple bun at the back of her neck.

She had told the others that she was leaving soon; however, she was prepared to leave tonight. After finishing her hair, she pulled up a loose tatami mat and pulled out a traveling satchel. Looking into the opening, something seemed amiss, but she did not know what it was. Mayura dismissed the feeling and figured it was nerves. She was about to attempt to put the past behind her, to start a new life elsewhere.

Opening the satchel, Mayura began to dress in the clothes she had hidden away. If Sango could get by dressed as a man, then so could she. She donned a brown, thigh length keso and matching flared hakamas. Placing the jingasa on her head, Mayura exited by the engawa and headed down to the stables.

The money that she had saved over the years was tucked securely in a money pouch on her person. As she prepared the horse, she thought of Fujiko, Hajime and, with a shudder, Junnosuke. Everyone would know by morning of her disappearance. However, at least Sango was safe and she felt no remorse for Hajime. He would soon lose everything he had schemed for, his title, lands and his rank.

She had not told anyone about Junnosuke or his threats to her. She concluded that once Hajime was captured, the scout, whatever his crimes, would go down with his master. Either way she would be free, but she still needed to move on. There was nothing left for her here… nothing, but coming here had allowed her a semblance of happiness.

It was dark now; she hated traveling at night. She hoped the presence of the Ashigaru troops had deterred the thieves in the area. Although wary, Mayura turned the horse south and headed down the road.

Not quite a mile from the brothel, Mayura noticed another rider coming towards her. Pulling the jingasa low on her head, she nudged her horse forward. As she came abreast of the other horse and rider, she saw him touch his hat in greeting. She meant to return the greeting and continue, however, the man reached out suddenly and snatched the reins from her hands.

"Nice night for a stroll, eh, Mayura."

There was no need to look up; she knew that voice... Hajime. The courtesan kept her head bowed until a third horse appeared.

"What did I tell ya'?" Junnosuke said.

"Good work," Hajime told the scout and then turned back to the courtesan. "Where were you today, Mayura?"

She stayed silent.

Hajime drew his horse closer, cupped the woman's face in his hands, forcing her to look at him. "I had such high hopes for us, Mayura, but you betrayed me. I would be a fool to overlook that now; wouldn't I?"

He continued to caress her face, memorizing its feel and texture. With a sigh, he turned away and addressed the scout. "Do whatever you feel necessary. Find out what she knows, but spare me the details." Hajime then turned his horse around.

"Hajime!" Mayura panicked and her voice broke as she called after him. She thought she heard him say, "Sorry," as he continued down the road.

He rode on as he heard Junnosuke's maniacal laughter, Mayura's yelp of pain as she was dragged from her horse and the retreating sound of hooves as they took off in the opposite direction.

xXxXx

Dragging his tired body through the gates of the slayers village, Kohaku saw each of his students to their home before turning to the main house. They had just returned from survival training in the mountains.

The students had to stay out in the forest for three days. They had to rely on their wits and what the earth provided. Unfortunately, as their teacher, Kohaku had to teach by example. The taijiya could not wait to crawl into his futon after sleeping on the ground the last few days.

Climbing the stairs to the dojo, Kohaku looked up to see Sango at the top of the stairs.

"Welcome home, little brother!"

The taijiya's eyes widened and then with an exasperated sigh, scratched the back of his head. Continuing up the stairs, he passed the vision and said wearily, "That's enough Shippo." He watched as the kitsune changed back into himself. "Besides… Sango would never bat her lashes that way."

"She never batted them at you, but Miroku was a different story," Shippo laughed.

Kohaku always scolded him for transforming into his big sister, but the kitsune knew he enjoyed seeing her, although she was not real. Shippo knew that whenever the taijiya was feeling at a loss, Sango's image would raise his spirits.

Shippo had grown a little taller over the years. He was now about the size of a seven year old. He was a regular here at the village, but he was not the only youkai. Kohaku was attempting to integrate the village.

"How did it go?" asked Shippo as he followed Kohaku into the dojo.

"It went well," he said, as he sat wearily in the middle of the room. "Yoichi is progressing steadily, but I'm afraid he's getting a bit big headed."

"Oh, how so?"

The two discussed several topics as they shared a late meal. Kohaku told him about the students and his plans to advance the one's that excelled. Shippo, in turn, told the taijiya about Kagome's visit to Kaede and his progressed fox magic.

"My illusions have gotten better, Kohaku, I'm able to transform entire sceneries now," the kitsune said proudly. "Would you like to see?"

"Not now; how about tomorrow, Shippo? All I want to do is rest right now," the taijiya said rising. "Thanks for the food; you're becoming quite the cook."

"Uh… I didn't make that," announced Shippo. "Ikuyo-chan dropped it by for you."

Kohaku blushed so hard, his freckles stood out. Ikuyo's family had joined the slayers village a little over two years now. It was no secret that the young girl had set her sights on Kohaku. The girl was extremely pretty, but Kohaku just was not ready yet.

"Um… well… I guess I should thank her for the trouble; I'll talk with her tomorrow."

"Right," Shippo snickered.

Kohaku caught movement from his peripheral vision and his instincts heightened. He swiftly turned to confront the intruder.

"Kirara!" He and Shippo said at the same time. "Is this more of your fox magic?" the taijiya asked the kitsune.

"It's not me."

"Kirara," Kohaku whispered and held out his arms. The youkai cat flicked her tail and leaped into them. "Is Miroku-sama all right?"

The cat meowed happily and Kohaku released a breath. "Then why did he send you back," Kohaku wondered aloud. The cat flicked her tail again and that's when Kohaku noticed the note tied to her tail.

"She wants you to read it," Shippo said unnecessarily.

"All right." Kohaku untied the note and took it out on the engawa to read. He looked back at Shippo and Kirara as they began playing together. It did not know what it contained, but it could not be bad news as Kirara seemed happy. Opening the contents, he began to read…

Kohaku-sensei,

The taijiya smiled.

I hope this letter finds you well. I will be brief, as I am writing this in haste. I have no time for detailed explanations.

Kohaku frowned.

I have sent Kirara to you in hopes that you will return with her. I bid you to come, Kohaku. You will not be sorry, my brother. I assure you I am neither insane nor disillusioned, Kirara will attest to that.

Kohaku laughed.

Sango, your sister, my wife, is alive. I found her living in a small village where our talks were being held.

"Ane-ue!" Kohaku gasped and stood trembling as he read on.

Thank Kami she is with us again. You may not believe me, Kohaku, but please come. There is more than one surprise in store for you.

Your brother, Miroku

This was impossible; or was it? Miroku would not lie, not about this.

Turning the letter over in his hands, he read it again. Yes… that was definitely the monk's scribes. The taijiya was pale and still trembling as he reentered the room.

"Are you all right, Kohaku? Is it bad news?" Shippo questioned. It could not have been, thought the kitsune. Kirara would not be in such a good mood.

Kohaku handed the letter to Shippo and the youkai cat jumped to his shoulder. "Is it possible?" questioned the taiiya. Kiarara meowed happily and snuggled into Kohaku's neck.

Shippo, however, had no doubts. The kitsune squealed, "Do you know what this means?" He did not wait for an answer. "When are you leaving?"

"Take care of things here, Shippo. If it wasn't that Kirara has already traveled so far, I would leave now," the taijiya said. "As it stands, I leave at dawn tomorrow."

xXxXx

He was a sadist, a masochist with an unquenchable thirst. Mayura had fought; she had punched, scratched and had even sunk her teeth into him and he had loved every minute of it. She now knew, firsthand, why the other girls at the brothel avoided him.

Junnosuke did not bother to tie her hands, he wanted her fight. He was careful to keep her from marring his face, but otherwise he enjoyed this savagery.

Bared to the waist, Mayura's breast were bruised and ached from Junnosuke's assault. He suckled so hard she thought her skin would pop; he took pleasure in nipping the peaks with his teeth until she cried out in pain.

He had not penetrated her yet, but she knew that was next. Finally, he captured her wrist with one hand and pulled them over her head. He then slithered between her thighs like the snake that he was.

Mayura began to panic and trying to buy time; she started to beg. "Please, Junnosuke there's no need to…" she gulped as she saw blood run down his forehead. Her nails must have created a gash on his scalp as she fought back. "I will tell you what you want to know."

"There's nothin' I want to know, May-chan," he said close to her ear. With his free hand, he opened the flap at the hem of her kimono, exposing her legs. "I don't give damn what you did today. Nothin' matters 'cept your body writhing under mine."

His hands slid up her legs, forcing them apart. Reaching the inner part of her thigh, he pinched the tender flesh.

Mayrua scereamed and tears welled in her eyes; she kept screaming until he let go.

He only laughed. "I love the sound of your voice, my dear," he chuckled as his hand continued upward. "Scream all you want, no one will hear you."

His hand left her legs to extract a tanto tucked into his obi; he slid the tip of the blade from her neck down to her waist and back again. "Before we consummate our union, I have to mark ya'," he said. "Don't worry May-chan, it won't hurt…much."

Turning her head to the side, Mayura wept silently. She gave up then and offered her prayers to Kami above. She cringed as she felt the blade continued downward and stop under her breast. She felt him press upward and the courtesan inhaled as the tip punctured her skin. Suddenly, Junnosuke's body stilled.

The scout listened intently. He was sure he heard a sound. He was sprawled across Mayura, but his focus was elsewhere. Someone was outside the abandoned hut he used for his rituals; whoever it was would pay for the interruption.

The sound of a whirling blade had Junnosuke rolling from Mayura's body. He laid flat on his back beside her as a star shuriken passed inches from his face and imbedded itself in the bamboo pillars.

Rolling to his feet, but staying low, the scout picked up his wakizashi and backed into a dark area.

"Stay where you are," he warned Mayura in a low voice.

She could not have moved if she wanted to, she was in so much pain. Instead, Mayura rolled on her side and curled into a fetal position. Suddenly, all hell broke loose as a figure fell from the roof and attacked Junnosuke.

Although in pain, Mayura jerked upright. Sliding back into a corner, she watched as the two figures fought. At first, she thought of Sango, but realized the masked figure was shorter than the taijiya. The courtesan heard the clash of steel and grunts as they thrust and parried.

Finally, they broke apart, each taking a moment to catch a second wind from the intense fight. They circled, each wary of the other. Mayura had no idea how they could see, let alone fight.

Watching his opponents movements, Junnosuke asked, "Who are you?" He was only met with silence. "You're a shinobi, I can tell by the way ya' move. Why are ya' after me?"

"Do you recall Takashi of the Mototaka regime?"

The voice he did not recognize, probably because of the mask, but he knew of whom they spoke. "Yeah, I knew him… what about it?" he spat. "He was a shinobi too. Have you come to challenge me for killing your comrade?"

"No… I've come to kill you." With that said, the shinobi charged again.

Mayura sat stunned. Takashi… how did this person know Takashi? Straightening her clothes, she stood on wobbly legs. Her head snapped up as she heard the shinobi say, "What the hell are you waiting for? Get outta here!"

It was that second that Junnosuke's wakizashi whipped around and caught his opponent on the arm. Jumping back and out of range, the shinobi delivered a kick to the main pillar supporting the hut. Before it caved in, Mayura was pushed out of the way of the falling debris. She found herself outside and being pulled her down the road by the shinobi, hopefully to safety.

The masked figure was injured, Mayura could tell, but they kept going. After putting some distance between them and Junnosuke, the courtesan tightened her grip on her rescuers hand. "Stop… please," she said as they tried to move forward. "You're injured; let's just rest for a minute."

The shinobi nodded reluctantly and Mayura guided them to sit beneath a tree. "Thank you for saving me," she said, peering closely at the shinobi's features. They nodded, but remained silent.

"Uh… can you tell me how you know Takashi?" Mayura asked, seating herself next to the masked figure. There was no reply.

They sat that in silence and suddenly the shinobi rose to their feet. Thinking it time to go, Mayura stood also and then she saw him.

Junnosuke stood directly in front of them, a bit winded, but nonetheless there. "I don't know who ya' are, but you're gonna pay," he said advancing on them.

Mayura stepped back with a muffled whimper, but the shinobi just stood there. With Junnosuke a few feet away, the masked figure finally spoke. "You want to know who I am; do you? I think it's only fair that my face is the last one you'll ever see."

The scout snorted. "All right then, humor me. Take off that mask."

The shinobi reached up and pulled the mask from their face. Both Mayura and Junnosuke looked on in shock. The courtesan could only stare as the scout began to laugh.

"You're kidding me," he laughed more. "You're good grandma, but ya' look a bit tired. I'm surprised the run didn't kill ya'."

"Rie," Mayura whispered.

"I'll give to ya' old girl, you got guts," the scout continued. "Now… who's this Takashi to you?"

"Takashi… was my son."

Mayura gasped. If Takashi was Rie's son that meant…

"And… my father!" a voice echoed into the night.

Two figures dropped from the tress and landed in front of Mayura and Rie.

"Akio!" whispered Mayura.

Akio moved forward as Nari went to check on Rie's injury. The young girl raised her hands to check the old woman's' wound; Rie waved her away to Mayura.

"Nari…" Akio addressed his fiancée and drew his kunai's. "Take my mother to safety. It's time I got rid of this filth."

Mayura almost fainted and Nari deftly caught her swooning form. She then turned to Rie and found the old woman glaring at her.

"Your mother?" Junnosuke looked shock, but it was wearing off quickly as he thought of his predicament. "Well…" he said smirking at Akio, "you sure can pick your women. Your mother is a delectable piece. And her…" He cast a lustful glance at Nari.

Akio only smiled and Nari took this as a sign to leave. "Come, Lady Mayura." She took her future mother-in-laws' arm and turned towards the forest.

"Don't let him do this," Mayura swung around to Rie. "Please!"

"Be quiet, woman, and have some faith in your son," the old woman snapped. "Take her and tend to her wounds, Nari-chan, we'll join you soon."

Once again, the young woman steered Mayura towards the teahouse.

Watching his prey get away angered Junnosuke. Turning to Rie and Akio, the scout snarled. "I'm gonna gut both of ya' like pigs and then I'll have both of 'em." He readied himself as Akio moved forward. "Ya' need your grandma to help you fight, boy," he taunted. "You're no match for me; neither was your father!"

"Was that why you resorted to stabbing him in the back," Akio stated with dead calm. "Even then, you had a tough time defeating him; didn't you?"

"Akio has surpassed his father's skills," Rie informed the scout. "I have waited and prepared him for this day."

For the first time, Junnosuke seemed uncomfortable. Gone was that cocky attitude, but it was replaced with a look of delirium. "You can't kill me," he spat.

"You disrespect my Oba-sensei, press your unwanted attentions to my woman and defile my mother," Akio snarled. "Junnosuke-san..." The form of respect was actually an insult. "You're already dead!"

To be continued…

Authors Notes: The next chapter was due out next week and I must forewarn my sensitive readers that it is a lemon. However, due to a recent tragedy in my family, the release date may be postponed. Sorry for the lack of spacing, I understand the site is no longer allowing this.

Glossary

aijou - beloved daughter

aisai - beloved wife

tonto – dagger

wakizashi – short sword