Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha; this is only a fanfic.
Authors Notes: Hi everyone! One more chapter to go and this fanfic is fini'. Sorry for the delay in posting, but as Ishimaru Amon-sama basically figured out the plot, I had to regroup and throw a curve ball his way. I created a few last minute surprises; I hope you will be pleased.
Volume II
Aisatsu wa toki no ujigami
(Arbitration in a quarrel is a godsend)
Chapter 26: Miroku's Wrath
The group gathered outside the teahouse welcomed Tsuneo back. Sango persuaded the children visit their friends, allowing the adults some time to talk alone. Once Suiren and Shun'ei were gone, Miroku suddenly turned to Akio.
"What happened, Akio-san that Lady Mayura had to return here? Was her trip to Ota Castle revealed?"
Akio glanced briefly to Nari and then spoke. "Lady Mayura was attacked last night." He slid a glance to Sango.
The taijiya gasped and asked anxiously, "Is she all right, Akio?"
"Yes, we made it in time," he said with a sigh. "We received word from Fujiko soon after she left that her rooms at the brothel had been invaded."
"Lady Fujiko?" Tsuneo's ears perked up.
"Had it not been for her…" Akio left the rest unsaid and felt Nari's comforting hands at his shoulders. It reassured him and reminded him that he could not tell them everything that had occurred.
Sango turned immediately and headed towards the teahouse.
"Wait… Sango!" Akio called out, but she ignored him; he watched as she opened the shoji and entered.
"Why would 'you' be notified of Lady Mayura's whereabouts, Akio?" Miroku asked thoughtfully. "And… what is your connection to Lady Fujiko?"
"Well… it's a bit complicated," Akio began. "You see… Fujiko is an informer; she was implanted at the brothel to keep an eye on Lady Mayura. She is not a courtesan; her presumed clients are actually members who come through for a night's lodgings only. It was arranged that way to maintain her position."
"She's not… you mean…" Tsuneo stuttered. "When you say informer; do you mean she's a spy?"
"No!" Akio snapped. He was sensitive about the discrepancy between the two words. "She gives information; she is 'not' a spy."
"Calm down, Akio-san," Miroku intervened. "Tsuneo means no harm; this is his first encounter with the shinobi."
Both, Akio and Nari gasped and stood frozen in their waraji's. Tsuneo's head also whipped around at Miroku's words.
Recovering, Akio asked, "What makes you think that, Houshi-sama?"
"Rie-sama," the monk said simply. "Forgive me for saying, Akio-san, but for a woman your grandmother's age she is unusually lithe and light on her feet. Her hands are calloused from years of practicing with weapons and not serving tea," he continued. "I noticed them as she tended to Sango after the exorcism."
"Remember, Akio-san, I am married to a woman warrior." Miroku smiled at the three before him. "What you are telling me now, but trying not to tell me, confirms your affiliation with the shinobi."
Akio and Nari stood silently with their eyes lowered. Neither confirmed nor denied the monk's assumptions. Miroku's next question had them lifting their heads again.
"Now… what is your connection to Mayura?"
Lifting his head proudly, Akio squared his shoulders. He would not keep this one issue a secret. He looked Miroku dead in the eye and said without hesitation.
"Lady Mayura… is my mother."
"Nice of you to confess," Miroku chuckled. "I figured the similarities between you two were not coincidental. Does Sango know?"
"Yes." Akio visibly relaxed and looked towards the teahouse. "I confided in her some time ago."
"Akio's mother was also attacked a couple of years ago; Sango saved her and she stayed with them for a while, it was then that he told her," Nari said.
"Mayura mentioned it on our way to Ota Castle," said Miroku. "Just see to it that she never goes back to that brothel, Akio-san. She is an exceptional woman, she deserves better."
"Thank you, Houshi-sama, you are most kind." Akio was touched by the monk's words and both he and Nari bowed.
"This is unbelievable," they heard Tsuneo saying to himself and they turned to the distraught young monk.
"Lady, Rie-sama is a shinobi and you Akio." Tsuneo shook his head. "And… and Lady Fujiko also." This was all a bit much for the young monk to take in. Wiping his hand across his brow, he took a seat on one of the benches.
"Are you all right, Tsuneo-san?" Miroku approached and sat beside him.
"No," he mumbled. "So many secrets and no one is whom they appear to be."
xXxXx
Sango stood between the two women with her arms folded across her chest. She looked from one to the other waiting for someone to speak.
"I find it interesting that the two most opinionated people I know have nothing to say," the taijiya began.
Rie shifted in her seat on top of the table and Mayura searched for the non-existent thread on her kimono.
"It's a wonder either of you can honestly say you loved Takashi." It was a low blow, Sango knew, but she had to get through to them and this, at least, got a reaction.
Simultaneously, both women jumped to their feet and turned on her. "What would you know? I loved Takashi!" Mayura snapped.
"You know I loved my son, Sango-chan," Rie said in an unusually passive tone.
"Did you?" Mayura turned to Rie, her eyes full of hostility. "You had a funny way of showing it!"
"What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Rie came back.
Sango took a seat and smiled. At least they were talking, if that is what one would call it. They shouted hostilities, accusations, called each other the worst names and a few times, it looked as if they would come to blows. However, Sango knew that would not happen.
Rie had long ago confided her regrets in turning away the woman her son fell in love with. Sango knew of Akio's mother long before meeting her. Rie had kept watch over Mayura and was responsible for her safety over the years. She had also maintained Fujiko's position in the brothel and provided her with pseudo clients.
The old woman had also dealt discreetly with Sai, the man who had betrayed Mayura. When pressed on the issue, Rie would only say the man was still alive although not fully functional.
As Sango watched the two bickering women, she wondered; was it really so hard to say you were sorry? Now reunited with her husband, the taijiya did not think there was anything she would be unable to say to him; she thanked Kami that they had found each other again.
Sighing softly and leaning on the table, Sango cupped her chin in her hands as she remembered their passion last night. The reflections had her feeling tingly all over until Mayura's broken sob reached her ears.
"… you're a mean old kaibutsu, that's why!"
"Did… did Takashi say that?" Rie asked heatedly, but Sango could tell she was hurting.
"He would never say that; I'm saying it!" Mayura spat. "You were his mother, he loved and respected you. But… he did not want what you wanted; why couldn't you accept that?"
Rie's eyes shot venom, but she did not answer.
"Akio…" Mayura began, but was interrupted by Rie.
"Akio is not a shinobi," she foresaw the woman's question. "It was his choice and I accepted it. He has the skills, but wants nothing else from us."
"Good," Mayura said simply and then turned to Sango. "I guess you knew about this," she said to the taijiya. "Is that why you saved me that night?" Mayura asked bitterly. "As a favor to her?"
"I resent that." Sango stood and squared her shoulders. "And … I'm surprised you even asked that question, Mayura."
"I'm… I'm sorry, Angel." Mayura's lip trembled. "It's just…"
A commotion outside interrupted any further conversation between them. Rie and Mayura reached the shoji just as Sango opened it. The women stood frozen in the entrance as Ashigaru foot soldiers approached the teahouse.
xXxXx
"Greetings, Houshi-sama." The young foot soldier bowed to Miroku. "Lord Hajime has requested your presence," he informed the monk.
"Are you sure this is a request?" Miroku looked skeptical. "I wonder that a request would require so many men," he said and surveyed the other seven armed men.
"I'm sorry, Houshi-sama, but I must ask that you do not resist." The young soldier moved close to Miroku and lowered his voice. "Please, sir," the young man beseeched him. "I would not like to force you."
With a sigh, Miroku turned to the others. Before he could speak, Akio and Tsuneo moved in front of their friend.
"What does Lord Hajime want with Miroku-sama?" Tsuneo spat.
"This is a formation for transporting criminals," Akio said. "What is the monk accused of doing?"
Who's asking?" One of the other soldiers asked.
"I am Akio, scout to the Kurosawa regime."
"That information can only be obtained by your commanding officer." The young man that addressed Miroku stated.
"We shall accompany you then… to speak with the commander," said Tsuneo and turned to Akio for confirmation.
"That is acceptable, but only one of you may go." The young soldier said and turned back to Miroku. "Will you come with us, Houshi-sama?"
"I could hardly refuse," Miroku grinned good naturedly. Turning his friends, he said, "Akio and I will go, Tsuneo-san. Would you take care of things here?"
The young monk was about to argue, but understood that Miroku was asking him to look after his family. "I will do as you ask," Tsuneo said solemnly.
Smiling his thanks, Miroku turned to the troops. "Shall we go?"
"Houshi-sama…" Sango's voice stopped him in his tracks. "What's going on? Where are you going?"
Miroku's body stiffened. He already had a bad feeling about this and he did not want to involve Sango or the children. He did not want Hajime to know anything about them. He had to hold out until Tokugawa arrived. Turning to his wife, his eyes spoke volumes, but he knew Sango could be stubborn.
"Ah… Lady Sango!" Miroku began a bit dramatically. "I am sorry, but I am unable to accept your offer of tea at this time. However, I promise to return later."
Their eyes met and Miroku could read rebellion in hers as she stood stiffly. "Is that all right, Lady Sango?" His eyes pleaded with her to trust him. Finally, he saw her shoulders slump in defeat and he relaxed.
"Of course, Houshi-sama," she said softly to him. She had not felt this helpless since Kohaku. She wanted to go with her husband, but whatever his reason, he was telling her to wait.
Akio took pity on her. Over the years, he had also learned to read the reserved demon slayer. Her eyes held the same distress they had when he met her. It had taken years for her to shed that haunted expression; he would be damned if he would let her suffer like that again.
"Nari-chan," Akio called out to his fiancée. "Find Koji-san; tell him to meet me at the encampment."
Sango's eyes lit up as they turned on Akio. Her lips trembled as she gave a watery smile. He had just given her passage to be with Miroku. Turning abruptly on her heel, she, Nari and Tsuneo headed back to the teahouse.
"What have you done, Akio-san?" Miroku asked quietly, as they walked between the foot soldiers. He jangled his shakujou with each step to cloak their words.
"I'm sorry, Houshi-sama, but you know Sango; she would have found a way to come." Akio looked contrite.
"You are right," Miroku sighed as he thought of his strong-willed wife. "She would have."
xXxXx
Back at the encampment, Hajime had recruited three unscrupulous soldiers. Congregated inside a tent, the group spoke in low tones.
"Thirty mon," Hajime informed the men. "Sixty if you find her."
"Question the young woman named Fujiko; she may know something," he continued. "I'm told she was Mayura's last contact before leaving the brothel."
"Does it matter how we get the information?" The soldier with the scarred face asked with a gleam in his eye.
"Damn it!" Hajime hissed. He was already annoyed he had to lower himself to using these ruffians, but without Junnosuke he had no choice. "Don't bother me with details," he snapped. "Just get it done and report back as soon as you get something."
As the three men left the confines of the tent and headed to the brothel, Hajime ran a frustrated hand over his face. He would have no problem getting rid of those idiots once they returned. With the last Gekokujo meeting in two days, he would be well away from here and on his way to Kyoto.
xXxXx
Sango has just finished braiding her hair and wrapped the thick plait around her head before donning the scout uniform.
"This is not a good idea, Sango-chan," Nari said with concern.
"You would do the same if it was Akio," Mayura said gently as she watched Sango pull on the soft-soled boots. "It might not be a good idea, but I doubt it will stop her from going."
"Stay focused," Rie reminded her. "You know how hot-headed you can get and with that husband of yours involved it will be equally hard." She walked over and handed the taijiya her wakizashi.
Sango reached out and grabbed onto the weapon, but Rie held it firm. "No heroics," the old woman said. "If anything occurs, remember Akio is there. I can at least trust him to think before he acts." Rie gave one of her rare smiles to soften the lecture.
Returning the smile, Sango had a sense of déjà vu at Rie's words, but knew she would heed them. "We'll be back," she whispered. "Keep an eye on Suiren and Shun'ei."
They all watched as Koji/Sango took off down the path to the encampment. "She should not go alone," said Tsuneo as he entered the room.
"She'll be fine; Sango's tough," Rie said as she turned to face the young monk. "Actually… I have a task for you Tsuneo-san."
"Whatever you ask, Rie-sama." He smiled and bowed to her.
"I'm sending you to the brothel to retrieve Fujiko and bring her here," she informed him. "Her presence is no longer required there and I fear for her safety."
"Of course, I will go at once!" Tsuneo stood at attention. "I will see that no harm comes to her."
Rie lifted her head on hearing this and looked at the young monk with interest. "I can see you are most passionate about it." Rie actually smiled again, causing Tsuneo to blush. "All right," she said and then her face became serious again. "Now, get going."
Rie sat in the window and looked out as Tsuneo took off. The injury she sustained from Junnosuke's blade hurt like hell and her mind was in a whirl as she thought about the aftermath of this mess. Propping her chin on her hand, she closed her eyes for a short reprieve.
"Nari-chan," she addressed the young woman without opening her eyes. "A cup of tea; if you please."
Moments later, the smell of brewed tealeaves wafted under her nose. Opening her eyes, she turned and the smile froze on her lips. Mayura stood above her holding the teacup in her hands. After handing her the cup, Rie was even more surprised when the woman took a seat beside her.
"You're pretty good at issuing orders," Mayura said looking outside also. "Takashi said you were good at turning situations to your advantage. He said you were so well planned sometimes he thought you had the gift of sight."
Looking up at the sky, Mayura continued with a wistful voice. "He was proud of the skills he learned from you and he used them in his work; just as Akio does."
Rie's lips trembled as she stared into the steaming tea. She did not know what to say or how to respond. She wanted to ask Mayura more about her son, but she could not… at least, not yet. Maybe someday, but it was too soon and there was much to be resolved before she could allow herself to soften.
Mayura must have sensed this as well. She and Rie would have their time, but she needed to concentrate on matters at hand. Looking down at the top of Rie's head, she would keep things as they were… for now.
"Do you think I poisoned it or something?"
"What…" Rie looked up to Mayura's query.
"The tea… are you going to drink or not?" she spat.
Something flickered in the old woman's eyes as she stared at the woman beside her. "Well… it's too hot," she said with a smirk before taking a sip. "Taste like water too."
"Why you little…" Mayura began.
Nari looked from across the room as another argument ensued. Although Rie complained about the tea, she drank several more cups. Whether from thirst or appreciation, Nari could see a bond forming between them. It was as Akio said; his father's memory would live on in the two women who loved him the most.
XXxXx
Suiren and Shun'ei sat just outside the back entrance to the teahouse. Their mother once told them, "One who listens in on another's conversation, will usually never hear anything good". That was the case this time.
The children had just arrived back at the teahouse; their friends were still doing chores and promised to join them here later. As they stood outside, they overheard the adults talking. They learned the Ashigaru troops had come for their father and their mother was going after him.
Suiren was so upset; she made to push open the door to confront the adults. Shun'ei grabbed her by the arm and swung her to face him. Pressing a finger to his lips to quiet her, he then motioned her to follow him. The two walked to the edge of the forest and sat under a tree.
"I'm going to follow her," Shun'ei said as he watched the entrance.
"I'm coming too," Suiren said heatedly.
"No… you stay here," he told her. "I don't know what's going on, but I'm going to find out."
"I'm going with you," his sister said stubbornly. "If you try to go without me, I'll… I'll tell Oba-sama!"
"Suiren!"
"I'll do it, nii-chan! I will, if you don't let me come along,"
"This is stupid," Shun'ei said as he thought about the consequences of his actions. Rie would be mad, his mother furious and he did know about his father. However, he knew the punishment would be worse if he took his sister along.
Sliding a glance over at her, he wondered if he could tie her up or… something. He should have known better and he should have remembered Suiren could almost read his mind. Before he could complete his thought, she leaned down with a mutinous look and stuck her fist in his face.
"Don't even think about it," she hissed.
Suddenly, the shoji opened and their mother stepped out dressed in the scouts' uniform. Both children ducked deeper into the foliage and waited until she was up the path. Looking down at his sister Shun'ei asked, "Ready?"
Suiren nodded a response and both children followed discreetly behind their mother.
xXxXx
Miroku, Akio and the foot soldiers arrived at the encampment. As they approached the tents by the river, the squad leader turned and requested them to wait. The two men watched as he entered one of the tents. A few moments later Hajime stepped out and the soldier followed.
"Greetings, Houshi-sama!" the daimyo said with a bow. "Thank you for responding so promptly."
"According to your men, I did not have much of a choice." Miroku bowed slightly. "What is it you require of me?"
Hajime's eyes slid to Akio and asked, "Who is this?"
"I am Akio, a scout under Commander Kurosawa's regime." He stepped forward and bowed. "The Houshi has been staying with us. My poor grandmother was concerned for her guest being called away in such a manner and demanded I accompany him."
His demeanor was cordial enough, Hajime thought as surveyed the young man. However, both he and the monk appeared too relaxed under the circumstances. Finally turning to Miroku, he said, "Come with me." He then turned and walked towards the river.
Without a word, both men followed in his wake. Downstream and a short distance from the tent, Hajime led them to Junnosuke's body. Each man looked into the roll of matted straw and then to each other.
"Do you recognize that man?" the daimyo asked Miroku.
"I have seen him before," Miroku said and leaned down for a better view. "Is he one of your men?"
Akio read Hajime's plan from that point. He was going to try to frame Miroku for Junnosuke's murder. There was no way he could allow that to happen, Sango and the children would be devastated. Not only that, but he would not let his friend take responsibility for his actions.
"I know him," Akio said suddenly. "Junnosuke; is that right?" He looked to Hajime for confirmation. "A fellow scout and, if I recall, he was your under your command."
By this time, Miroku was experiencing an eerie feeling and he slid an inconspicuous glance to Akio. However, the young man's eyes were focused challengingly on the daimyo. Looking back down at the body, the monk wondered if this man had attacked Mayura. That would have been the only way someone like Akio would have killed him.
"I'm sorry that you lost your man, Hajime-sama; I would be happy to perform ceremony for his passing." Miroku offered.
"That's not why I called you here," Hajime snapped. "Where were you last night?"
Miroku lifted an eyebrow to his interrogation. "I fail to see what that has to do with this," the monk said calmly.
"Then let me enlighten you," Hajime stated with poise. "Yesterday I sent this scout in search of you. I requested to meet with you here at the encampment at noon, however you never showed up. In making inquiries," the daimyo continued. "I was informed that you met with a certain young courtesan at the brothel yesterday."
"Yes," Miroku began, "as a matter of fact, I did. Lady Mayura… a most charming woman," he said. The monk watched the daimyo's reaction and noticed his eye twitch on hearing her name.
"We enjoyed a delightful afternoon and parted ways early evening," Miroku's tone insinuated something more. "I was planning to visit with her again tonight."
Akio kept his expression neutral, but inwardly he frowned. What was Miroku doing? It seemed he was deliberately antagonizing the daimyo. As his mothers' top client, Akio could see the jealous fire in Hajime's eyes.
However, Miroku saw them too and was intent on fanning the flames. The daimyo was too confident in his surroundings. The monk was not sure whether the man actually felt something for Mayura or his pride was at stake. Whatever it was, Miroku would use it to rattle his composure and to his advantage.
"It was unfortunate that due to miscommunication I missed your summons yesterday, however, it was a pleasure being in the company of such a beautiful woman." Miroku stated. "Well… I am here now and since my skills as a priest are not required; what can I do for you Hajime-sama?"
The daimyo could barely answer as he seethed inside. He glanced swiftly at the few soldiers listening in on the conversation. They knew his association with Mayura and possibly guessed his feelings stemmed from jealousy. Hajime was annoyed that the courtesan had turned her charms on the monk while he was here.
What had Mayura seen in him, thought Hajime? He was just a simple 'unsui' and nothing more. Why would she choose a lowly temple servant over him? "The woman is also missing," Hajime said suddenly.
Miroku looked up suddenly and feigned surprise. "What do you mean missing?" he asked.
Hajime assumed by Miroku's reaction that he was unaware of Mayura's status. "As it stands," the daimyo began darkly. "We have a murdered scout, a missing woman and you are the only person connected to both. I have no choice but to hold you accountable," he smirked. With a nod to the foot soldiers, Hajime continued. "Take him into custody!"
"I'm sorry, Hajime-sama, but…" Miroku said with dead calm and gripped his shakujou. "I cannot allow you to do that."
xXxXx
The brothel was quiet, but Tsuneo tugged at the collar of his keso anyway. Swallowing hard, he passed through the opening. As he walked into the main hall, the women flocked around him making him more uncomfortable.
"Ah… excuse me." He stopped one of the women and she turned to him with a seductive smile.
"What can I do for you, little monk?" she asked in a smoky voice, backed him to the wall and began to stroke his baldhead.
"I'm… I'm looking for Lady Fujiko," he stuttered and attempted to flatten himself against the wall.
"Oh…" the woman pouted. "You're not her usual type." She looked skeptically at him and then shrugged her shoulders. "Out in the garden," she told him turning away.
Exhaling loudly, the young monk wiped a hand across his heated brow and proceeded outside in search of Fujiko.
Exiting through the front, he turned towards the back of the house and headed for the garden. Rounding the corner, he came upon Fujiko's petite form surrounded by three soldiers. She was on the ground with her hands raised trying to deflect an incoming blow from one of the men.
"I've already told you, I don't know anything." Fujiko said as she backed away, careful to avoid stepping on her plants.
"Aw… come on, ningyou." The scarred man moved forward. "Maybe I can refresh your memory," he said suggestively and reached out a hand to touch her.
"There's no need," Fujiko said haughtily and slapped his hand away. "I repeat; I don't know where Mayura-san went."
The men were not as conscientious about her plants as she was. Fujiko cringed seeing their petals crushed underfoot as the men advanced on her.
"Go away!" she snapped. "Get out of my garden! You're ruining my flowers!"
The taller man reached out, grabbed Fujiko by the collar of her kimono and pulled her against him. "We're not leaving until we get some answers or at least… something else," he stated with a leer, his hand reaching inside her top.
Swift as lightening, her hand snaked out and her nails raked the side of his face. "Don't you dare touch me!" she hissed.
Caught off guard, the man pushed her away from him and Fujiko landed hard on the ground. Fresh blood seeped from the wound she inflicted. The man stared in horror at his blood-streaked hand as it came away from his face.
"You little bi…!"
Without hesitation, his hand formed a fist and flew to strike. Fujiko closed her eyes and raised her hand to shield herself from the incoming blow, but it never came.
She felt a gust of air and heard a loud grunt. Opening one eye, Fujiko dared to look up and, to her surprise, found Tsuneo standing over her. A short distance away, her assailant was doubled over on the ground with the two accomplices attempting to help him to his feet.
"Master Tsuneo," Fujiko breathed.
The young monk spared her a brief glance before turning back to his opponents. "Get up!" he said and reached down to pull her to her feet.
Gingerly placing her hand in his, Fujiko rose from the ground.
"You take the small one on the right," Tsuneo whispered conspiratorially. "I think I can handle the other two."
Fujiko looked shocked. "Um… Master Tsuneo," she began and placed a hand on his shoulder.
"It's all right." His hand covered hers. "I know you're a shinobi. Rie-sama sent me here."
Tsuneo felt her tense behind him. Looking quickly over his shoulder, he noticed she still seemed ill at ease.
"Um… Master Tsuneo…" she began in a small voice. "I'm sorry, but…I'm… I'm not trained to fight."
"What?!" he squawked, finally turning to look at her fully and saw the truth in her large dark eyes. With a groan, Tsuneo turned back to the three men who were now advancing with weapons drawn.
Pushing Fujiko behind him, he whispered, "My horse is around front. Take it and go straight to the teahouse." He felt her flinch, but otherwise she did not move. "Hurry!" he snapped.
"No!" She grabbed the back of his keso. "I'm staying with you!"
"Fujiko!"
"No!" She was adamant.
Raising his eyes to the heavens in silent prayer, Tsuneo withdrew his wooden staff. "Kami-sama… give me strength."
xXxXx
Kohaku and Kirara landed a short distance from the teahouse. The two had tried the house first, but no one was there. The taijiya was having a hard time believing his sister was still alive. How he wanted to see her, talk with her, to say the words that he had meant to say that fateful day seven years ago.
"Is this the place?" Kohaku looked down at his companion. Kirara meowed happily and both headed towards the abode. Suddenly, three children brushed by hurriedly with a chorused, "Gomen nasai!"
With a smile, the taijiya followed behind the children and noticed they were headed in the same direction. Kohaku watched as the tallest boy rapped loudly on the shoji, which opened, and a young woman appeared. Both he and Kirara waited politely, while the children and woman conversed.
"Well… hello Chisato, Ichiro and Yamoto," the woman said, smiling.
"Good morning, Nari-san," the chidren said in unison and complete harmony. "We've come to play with Suiren and Shun'ei," Chisato piped in. "We told them we would come as soon as we finished our chores."
"Oh…" Nari's brow furrowed. "I'm sorry, but we thought they were with you." She looked to each child perplexed. Looking up, she noticed a young man standing a few feet behind the children. Ushering the children inside, she made to inform him the teahouse was closed for the day.
Kohaku smiled and bowed slightly to the young woman. "A cup of tea would be nice, but actually I'm looking for someone," he said in his quiet voice.
The young man was quite handsome and he looked familiar, thought Nari. If she had seen him before, she could not remember where.
Kirara meowed and flicked her tail; Nari looked down noticing the cat for the first time. "Oh… Kirara, you're back!" she exclaimed.
"You must be another of Houshi-sama's friends," she said looking up at the young traveler. Stepping back, she opened the door. "Forgive my manners; please come in."
Kohaku entered with Kirara behind. Looking around he saw the children and two other women inside.
"Kirara!" Chisato squealed and scooped the cat up in her arms. Although the neko purred, it peered over the child's shoulder, looking for someone else.
"Rie, Mayura, this is… uh…" Nari realized she had not asked his name and turned to him.
Smiling, Kohaku reached behind to scratch the back of his head; a nervous gesture that he had not outgrown. "I'm sorry for the intrusion, ladies." He bowed to the women. "My name is…"
"Kohaku," Rie interrupted the boy. "You're Kohaku… Sango's little brother; aren't you?"
"Uh… yes!" he said excitedly. So… it was true, just as Miroku said. Ane-ue was alive and these people knew her. "How did you know?"
"Your sister has told me much about you, young man," Rie informed him. "There is also the family resemblance and of course," the old woman chuckled. "The freckles gave you away."
Kohaku blushed. "I… I received a letter from Miroku-sama, he asked me to come. He said that she was ali… um… that she was here. I…" The taijiya paused to calm down. "Where is she?" he whispered. "I need to see her."
Rie, Mayura and Nari all looked to the young man before them; there was no doubt he was Sango's brother. Rie moved forward sympathizing with the taijiya and clasped his hands in hers.
"Your sister is out right now, however, we can introduce you to the next best thing." She smiled serenely at him. Turning to the children, Rie asked, "Where are Suiren and Shun'ei?"
"We don't know?" Yamoto said.
"We were supposed to meet them here after we finished our chores," said Ichiro.
"Hey!" Chisato addressed Kohaku. "Are you really Suiri-chan and Shu-san's uncle?"
"Uncle?" Kohaku's eyes grew wide. Kirara jumped to his shoulder, rubbed against his cheek and purred.
As the taijiya was absorbing this information, Mayura spoke quietly to Rie. "You don't think…" she left the rest unfinished.
"I certainly do," Rie responded. "Come, Kohaku-san," the old woman said, steering him to a seat. "Before I send you on a rescue mission, let me fill you in on a few things."
xXxXx
Sango arrived in time to see Miroku angle his shakujou. Things must have taken a turn for the worst. After fighting at his side for many battles, the taijiya knew her husband's loose-limbed battle stance.
Slowly approaching, Sango took a moment to access the situation. Miroku, Akio, a high-ranking officer and four of the foot soldiers stood by the river. The others were downstream by the camp. Thinking of Tsuneo's words earlier, she headed towards the small group upstream.
"Are you resisting, monk?" Sango heard the officer say. On closer inspection, she saw it was Hajime Asano, the local daimyo.
"Without a doubt," Miroku retaliated smoothly.
Before things got out of hand, Sango decided to make her presence known. Stepping into the clearing, she bowed, but turned to address the daimyo.
"Greetings, Hajime-sama," the taijiya said in her mask induced raspy voice. "I was dispatched by Commander Kurosawa to inquire on the status of the charges against the senior monk."
Miroku closed his eyes briefly in silent prayer; Kami, her timing was awful. He sensed Akio tense next to him, but otherwise the young man remained calm.
"How did…" Hajime began, but was interrupted by Akio.
"I sent word to Commander Kurosawa before we arrived," he informed the daimyo. "If the houshi is to be taken into custody, it will be under his protection until Lord Tokugawa arrives."
Both, Hajime and Miroku's eyes widened. The daimyo's, because his plans were once again threatened; the monk's, because it was too early to reveal that information.
"Lord Tokugawa… coming here?" Hajime's eyes narrowed. "When did this occur and why wasn't I notified?"
"Our unit was informed days ago," Akio said. "It seems there have been transgressions within the military. We were informed to keep quiet in hopes that the culprits will reveal themselves." He continued to spin his tale.
"Through our resources we have discovered that your man, Junnosuke, played a major role in these misdeeds." Akio looked intently at Hajime.
Akio was going too fast, thought Miroku and his bluff had the daimyo nervous. The man's eyes became wide with fear and a look of desperation crept into them; the monk knew this was a dangerous combination. Desperate men took desperate measures.
"Now… Hajime-sama…" Akio stepped forward. "Koji and I will escort the monk to our commander. We will notify you once Lord Tokugawa arrives."
Miroku had been watching the daimyo intently and knew he was at the breaking point. Although he may be cornered, he was not the type to go down without a fight.
The monk watched Hajime's body language wondering what he would do next. His other concern was getting Sango out of the way. Once safely back at the teahouse, he and Akio would pursue the daimyo. Running was definitely one of Hajme's options. It was not until his wife moved forward, that Miroku keyed into the daimyo's intentions.
Sango felt relieved, it seemed Akio had talked him around to letting them leave. She stepped into the water to cross the stream when, in one fluid motion, Hajime snatched her back against him with both her arms pulled up behind her. Drawing his sword, he placed the blade at her throat.
Akio panicked, but Miroku maintained his composure. If Sango could break away, he knew she would. He wanted to see her eyes, but the mask she wore made that difficult.
The foot soldiers were confused by the exchange, but it was the news of Lord Tokugawa's arrival and the investigation into the military's activities that alarmed them. They stood, unsure of what to do as they were still under Hajime's command.
"What are you doing, Hajime?" Akio shouted.
"Stay back or I'll slit his throat!" the daimyo hissed as he moved back using Sango as a shield. Pursing his lips, he let out a loud whistle.
Akio moved as if to attack, but Miroku stilled him by extending the staff in front of him. "Don't," Miroku whispered.
"Let the man go," the monk said calmly although his insides were tearing him apart. "No need involving others in this; it's me you want. You're only making things worse by taking a hostage."
"Be quiet," Hajime snapped and turned slightly as he heard his horse approach from behind. "You're right about that, but I like this hostage. I think I'll keep… her."
The first tremor of fear went through Miroku; he watched helplessly as Hajime continued to back away, his nose buried in Sango's neck. "I've never known a man to smell this good." he grinned evilly. "Do you look as good as you smell?" he asked close to her ear.
The monk moved slowly forward, as they moved back. "If that's a woman in your possession, Hajime, and she comes to harm, your offenses will be doubled."
Miroku was fast losing control as he watched the blade pressing against his wife's neck. If he could only make eye contact, he could communicate with her. At this time, Miroku did not know that was the least of his worries.
Sango did not struggle; as soon as the opportunity arose, she would disarm him. The mask was suffocating; she almost wanted him to remove it. As they moved towards the horse, the taijiya knew he would have to loosen his hold to mount.
Timing was important and Sango counted in her head the number of steps to the horse. As she readied herself, the sound of whirling rings caught her attention. She stiffened in horror as Shun'ei's weapon slammed into the horse's chest causing it to rear up on its hind legs, its front legs pawing the air.
Hajime let go of her to try to control his horse; his hands grabbing at the reins. Sango grabbed the hilt of her wakizashi, rammed it into the daimyo's gut and then pushed away. Her feet skidded on the slippery stones on the floor of the stream preventing a hasty retreat. Before Sango could steady herself, she felt the handle of the daimyo's sword strike a blow between her shoulder blades and then everything went black.
Suiren took off at a run and was halfway upstream, steering clear of her brothers rebounding weapons. By the time Shun'ei retrieved his rings, he ran after his sister.
"Wait!" he yelled, but she kept running; not heeding his words.
"Haha-ue!" the little girl screamed seeing her mother fall to the ground.
Miroku and Akio ran towards Sango as Hajime mounted his horse. However, all three men turned to the sound of the child's voice.
"Stay back!" Miroku ordered as he caught sight of his daughter in harms way. Changing directions, he headed for Suiren. "Look after Sango!" he threw over his shoulder to Akio.
Suiren pulled up short at her father's shout. Usually calm, the anger in his voice surprised her. That and seeing her mother struck down, the child stood nervous and unsure of what to do. "Chichi-ue?" she whispered questioningly.
Time stood still as Miroku's eyes met Hajime's. "Father?" the daimyo eyes widened and then he laughed hysterically. "So… Houshi-sama; you have a child." Nudging his horse in the side, he headed straight for Suiren whose feet were rooted in fear as the horse bore down on her.
"Suiren!" she heard her brother yell. "Get out of the way!" However, her feet were frozen, she could not move. She could hear Shun'ei's footsteps closing in rapidly from behind. In front, she again saw the huge horse and rider, but she also saw her father following with an unfamiliar look of fury on his face.
Hajime urged his mount forward heading straight for the child. Shifting sideways in the saddle, he leaned down and swung the little girl up and in front of him. Turning the horse to dry land, the daimyou headed into the forest.
Shun'ei jumped out the way just as they barreled past. He fell into the water, but turned to see the horse and rider disappear into the brush. Getting to his feet, he made to follow. A hand clamped down on his shoulder and Shun'ei looked up into his father's stormy blue eyes.
"Go back!" Miroku snapped, but gently pushed his son towards Akio downstream. Without waiting for him to comply, the monk headed into the forest.
Shun'ei stood for a second. Suddenly, his body jerked as a gruesome image rose unbidden to his mind. The boy trembled again as he looked downstream. He could see that Akio had taken his mother to shore. The ominous sensations that racked his small body was not coming from there, it was coming from the direction his father took.
"Forgive me, mother," the boy whispered. "But… but father and Suiren need me." With weapon in hand, Shun'ei took off and entered the forest.
xXxXx
The child fought like a demon from hell. His armor protected his body, but a fist caught Hajime just below his eye and the heel of her hand had his nose bleeding.
"Let me go!" Suiren yelled.
Damn it, he was not going to hurt her; he was only using her for safe passage. He had planned to dump her off at the next village.
"Hold still, you little hellion," the daimyo hissed; he was having a hard time controlling his horse with her ceaseless movement. Grabbing the back of her keso, he lifted and turned her on her stomach in the saddle, but not before another well-directed blow cut his lip.
Thrown over the horses back, Suiren's head and ponytails bobbed around like a rag dolls. Looking up, she saw her father running from behind and gasped aloud. "Chichi-ue!"
Turning in the saddle, Hajime was amazed at the sight of the monk hot on his trail. He was actually keeping pace with his horse; how could that be? With a swift kick to the animal's side, the daimyo urged his mount faster.
Miroku, who was already running at top speed, saw Hajime pull away as the horse increased its pace. "Hajime!!!!" he growled, hearing his daughter call out to him.
He was too angry to panic. "I'm going to kill that bastard!" the monk thought savagely. As Kami as his witness, he would not get away. There was only one thing left to do.
Miroku stopped, planted the shakujou in the ground, snatched the beads from his hand and aimed it at the fleeing daimyo.
"Kazaana!!!"
xXxXx
Sango awakened to the sound of raised voices. She could hear Akio shouting orders and the sound of shuffling feet. As she lay there, she suddenly recalled the situation, jerked up and moaned at the pain in her back.
"Easy now; don't rush it." Sango felt a hand on her shoulder. The voice was familiar, but it was not Akio's.
"Let go!" she said. "My husband… Shun'ei… I've got to…" She struggled to get up.
"Don't worry," the voice said. "We're going after them. I know how much family means to you."
Recognition slithered down Sango's spine and she turned slowly. The figure was kneeling next to her. Looking up, she saw the man wore earth tone traveling keso with matching hakamas. Raising her eyes further, she looked into a pair of warm brown eyes and the face that was never far from her thoughts.
"Ko… Ko… haku?" She stammered.
"Ane-ue," his voice caressed her and his eyes shimmered with unshed tears. "Oh… Ane-ue!" He launched himself into her arms, just as he had done as a child and lifted her to her feet.
Sango was stunned; her body numb as she was held within the circle of his arms. Kohaku was alive her mind whispered. She felt her brother loosen his hold and push back to look into her eyes.
"Ane-ue, it's me," he said softly. "Don't you know me? Ane-ue!" he cried and shook her gently. She only stared at him with unseeing eyes. With a sigh, he turned to the old woman's grandson.
"Akio-san, please look after her." He turned a stiff Sango over to his care. "I'm going after Miroku-sama."
With one last look at his sister's blank stare, he pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Come on, Kirara," he said looking down at his youkai companion twirling around Sango's legs.
Stepping away from the others, the cat youkai transformed. Akio and the soldiers gasped in wonder. Kohaku had mounted Kirara; he was ready to take off when his sister finally spoke.
"You've grown so… tall," she whispered. "You're taller than me."
Turning to her, he smiled gently. "Yes," he chuckled and scratched the back of his head. "Sorry about that."
"Kohaku!" Sango flew into her brothers arms with such force that she almost unseated him from Kirara's back.
He held her for a moment and then lifted her chin. "I've got to go Ane-ue, Miroku-sama and the children…"
"The children?" she gasped. Suddenly, her eyes changed from fearful to flashing fire. "I'm going with you!" She had noticed the absence of her husband and cringed of the thought of the children being involved. She could only guess what had occurred while she was knocked out.
"I thought you'd say that," Kohaku smiled and kissed her forehead again. "You haven't changed," he said softly. "For her loved ones; my Ane-ue would take on the world."
xXxXx
The wind whipped furiously, the stormy gale possessed the same ire radiating from the arahoushi.
Hajime felt as if an iron grip had ripped him from his horse; he and the girl were both sucked into the tumultuous vortex. As the child was lighter, her small body sailed past, her struggles futile against the wind.
The daimyo was able to grab onto a low tree branch. Hearing the frantic neighing of his horse, Hajime looked up in time to duck the body of the huge mount headed straight for him.
Just as suddenly as the winds appeared, they receded. As Hajime's body landed with a thump on the ground, he heard his mount grunt as it landed a distance behind him. Standing on wobbly legs, he turned in time to see the horse struggle to rise before careening back towards the encampment.
Suiren's body was closing in fast and Miroku knew he had to time this perfectly. If he closed the 'Kazaana' too soon, she would hit the ground. It tore at his heart to hear her blood curdling scream as the winds carried her backwards, but this was the only way to save her from the daimyo's clutches.
Almost there… three… two… one. Miroku wrapped the beads around his hands, once again securing the wind tunnel. Lurching forward, he braced his body for Suiren's landing.
His daughter was still screaming as his arms closed around her. "Shhh… little one," Miroku whispered and held her tight against him. "I've got you."
Her father's voice in her ear had Suiren lifting her head and staring into blue eyes, mirror images of her own. "Chichi-ue!" she breathed and clutched the front of his robes. "You… you came for me."
"I will always come for you, aijou," Miroku said passionately.
The sound of hooves had both father and daughter looking up to see Hajime's mount running off. Looking in the other direction, the monk saw the daimyo rising to his feet and he slowly lowered Suiren to the ground.
Hearing footsteps, Miroku turned to see Shun'ei running towards them. "Your brother's here." Miroku's expression was stoic, but his eyes burned with intensity. "Both of you go back to the camp and check on your mother." Ruffling her hair, he pushed her forward. "Go on… I will be right behind you."
Picking up his shakujou, the monk strode purposefully towards Hajime.
xXxXx
"Kazaana!!!"
The raw emotion in that shout sent another tremor through Shun'ei. The boy almost fell to his knees with the sheer force of it. Stumbling to right himself, he reached the rise in time to see a strong wind whipping through the forest.
He stood in awe; he had never seen anything like this. Shun'ei's eyes scanned the horizon for the source of the chaos; his brown orbs grew large as he saw his father. It was him… he was controlling the winds.
Reaching out with his aura, Shun'ei sensed the winds were angry, but not evil.
Hearing Suiren scream, he took a deep breath and plunged down the hill to his father's side.
xXxXx
"Looking for this?"
Hajime straightened on hearing the voice from behind. Turning, he saw Miroku holding his sword still inside its sheath. The monk's face was a cold, hard mask and his eyes induced fear that spread through the daimyo's insides.
"Hmph!" Hajime smirked, suppressing the feeling. "I'm not going back, so you're going to need to use that sword, shijin." he taunted.
"No," Miroku said, his voice held an ominous note. "You are going to need it." With that said, the monk tossed the sword to the daimyo.
Hajime caught it in the air, unsheathed the blade and demonstrated several practice swings before turning to Miroku with a lunged stance. "That was a mistake." As he spoke a malicious grinned spread across his face. "I must say I wasn't too confident about getting away, however, you've just made it easy for me." Hajime said as he advanced on the monk, his front foot shuffling a lead.
"You've been a thorn in my side since you arrived. My plans would have been successful without your interference. I could have had it all… status, money, Mayura and an opportunity to get the hell out of this village!" The venom built as he spoke. "You'll pay for depriving me of all I've worked for, monk," Hajime swore.
"Your greed was your undoing," Miroku said coldly. "Therefore blame no one but yourself, but for you to use my wife as a means to escape and to frightened my children is unforgivable. It is you, Hajime who will pay!"
Facing the daimyo, Miroku relived the terror he felt at seeing the blade at Sango's throat. The gods would not be so cruel as to let him find her only to loose her again. It angered him to know that this man had put a look of fear on Suiren's normally cheerful face. In Hajime's haste to get away, he had also almost run down Shun'ei.
In one afternoon, Hajime had threatened the very source of his existence, of his happiness. "Prepare, you vile bastard," Miroku spat. "Prepare to defend yourself or die!"
Lunging forward, Hajime sliced and jabbed with his sword; Miroku skillfully blocked and parried with his shakujou. They drew apart and circled each other.
"I wasn't going to hurt the girl," Hajime smirked. "As far as the scout… how was I to know she was your woman."
"You have no right to treat 'any' woman in that manner," Miroku hissed. "Save your confessions, Hajime, you can deliver them to Kami in person."
The two men engaged again. They thrust, parried and thrust in rapid succession. Hajime's sword drove forward and Miroku blocked it in one fluid motion, then immediately followed through with his counter. The air vibrated with the staccato sound of the shakujou clashing against the sword.
The monk was quick and agile, thought Hajime. He had always been proud of his prowess as a swordsman, however, Miroku proved to be more than a worthy opponent.
Although in a blind rage, Miroku's mind training and meditation allowed him to focus with clarity. He was able to respond with calculated precision to the daimyo's attacks. He would soon learn whom he was dealing with.
The daimyo knew he was outmatched. He made one last desperate attempt to best the monk before making a break for it. Grasping the sword in both hands, he lifted it overhead and slashed in a downward sweep. As expected, the monk threw the shakujou up to block the blades progress. Releasing one hand from the sword, Hajime reached inside his keso and discreetly withdrew a hidden tanto. Holding it firmly in his grip, he thrust upwards and aimed for Miroku's gut.
The blade grazed Miroku's side. Gritting his teeth against the pain, he was able to sidestep and align his body with Hajime's. Twirling the shakujou, he entrapped the daimyo's hands, crushing his fingers causing him to drop his sword.
"A dirty fighter as well as a dishonorable man," Miroku spat, reared back and delivered an elbow to the daimyo's face. The monk released him and watched his body slump to the ground.
In the grass, Hajime coughed and sputtered as blood flowed from his nostrils. Struggling to sit up, he looked up to see Miroku advancing on him. Although he was beaten, the daimyo could not resist one last taunt.
"So… what now, shijin," Hajime smirked. "You take me into custody… humph! That's not smart."
"I agree," said Miroku calmly, lifted his shakujou and pointed it at Hajime. "Now… you die."
"You… you can't," the daimyo stammered, his arrogance waning. "You're a monk, damn it!"
"I'm also a man, Hajime," Miroku said as he raised the shakujou and the daimyo drew back in fear. "A man whose family you violated." With his staff poised overhead, he whispered, "Kami-sama… forgive me."
"No, Chichi-ue."
Miroku froze as Shun'ei's soft plea reached out to him.
"Ju yoku go o seisu."
Hearing those words from his son, Miroku felt the anger begin to dissipate. Slowly lowering the shakujou he turned to Shun'ei's small form. The boy was walking towards him with arms outstretched, palms up. Suiren stood a distance behind, her small fist pressed to her face with wide eyes.
"To win is to yield," his son had said and Miroku stared in awe at the child. The boy had just quoted words from his father's teachings. Shun'ei's body was surrounded by a mystical aura that he could actually see. It radiated from the boy directly to him, enveloping his minds.
The aura swirled around Miroku as images of battles past filled his memory. Similes of the first time he obtained the 'Kazaana' flitted through his mind. He saw Mushin guiding and teaching him and his solitary journey to find Naraku. The images projected his meeting with Inuyasha, Kagome and Shippo and them joining forces and then… there was Sango.
Dropping the shakujou, Miroku remembered his fascination with reserved demon slayer on their first meeting. Even then, he knew she was special. In time and after several battles, he had finally confessed his love for her.
Sango… his Sango. She was his wife, friend, lover, comrade and the mother of his children. He had only known them for a few days, but they were his world. Through Shun'ei's aura, Miroku finally understood the meaning of these visions.
Falling to his knees, Miroku's body trembled until his son's arms closed around him.
"To commit this kagare is against your beliefs. With all you have achieved; would it be worth it, Chichi-ue?" Shun'ei asked softly.
"No, my son…" the monk said as he held the boy. "I assure you, it is not." Pulling back, he looked into eyes so like his mothers. "Thank you, Shun'ei-san."
The boy blinked, shook his head and then looked at his father. "Uh… sure," he said, but looked completely baffled.
Miroku realized then that his son was oblivious to what just happened. The monk was unsure what kind of power this was, but together they would find out.
"Houshi-sama!"
They both turned to see Sango and Suiren running towards them. Miroku stood just as his wife threw herself into his arms. Looking down at his son, they exchanged a smile.
"Are you all right, Miroku?" Sango pulled back and her hands searched his body looking for injuries.
Miroku stiffened and grabbed at her hands. The woman had no idea how it affected him when she called him by his given name. That, followed by her roaming hands, was a deadly combination and this was neither the time nor place.
"I am fine, aisai, it's just a scratch," her husband said. Still holding firm to her hands, he raised them to his lips and kissed them. Releasing Sango, he turned to Suiren and lifted her in his arms.
"How about you, aijou?" he inquired of his daughter.
"I'm all right!" She smiled serenely at her father. "But… but… that man got away."
The family turned to where Hajime's body was the last time he was seen. The daimyo was indeed gone. Hastily putting his daughter down, Miroku turned to his wife. "Sango, I've got…"
"That won't be necessary," the taijiya actually smirked as she interrupted her husband. "He's not going anywhere."
"What do you mean?"
Kirara's fierce growl reverberated through the forest followed by the rattle of a chain scythe. Miroku exchanged a look with his wife. Sango then turned to the children and smiled.
"How would you two like to meet your uncle, Kohaku?"
To be continued…
Authors Notes: I am so disappointed I could not do more with Sango and Kohaku's reunion. I will try to make amends next chapter.
Glossary
waraji - straw sandals
unsui - itinerant monk (also called a Cloud & Water guest)
ningyou - doll
kaibutsu – monster
arahoushi - warrior monk
shijin - men of the temple
tanto - dagger
kagare - to commit wrongful or dirty deed