She woke to a warm fire, still dazed from the day before. The surge of power had been unexpected, lying dormant for the next time she had need. What am I? I know Sesshomaru referred to me as a Lunarian or Solarian, but until now I never paid much attention. Am I really so different?

Tranquility was quiet for several minutes, staring at the roof of the cave. It would be so easy to lie here for the rest of her life, to forget the danger she was in. Was it so hard to ask for a normal life? She was always fighting, and she knew this to be true in her other life as well.

Hearing a sound, she turned her head, surprised to see the monk. He was wide awake, guarding the entrance of the cave in silence. She had trouble reading his expression, the man constantly looking at his hand. Tranquility gave a soft smile, happy that she had done some good. Is the monk protecting me? she wondered.

Tranquility was so tired of running, Sesshomaru constantly calling. She wanted to give in, to let him be the one to fight Naraku. Sesshomaru had wanted her trust, but it was much more than that. Tranquility would trust him with her life. It was the thought of him dying for her that scared her senseless. Nothing mattered as long as she managed to keep him safe.

The Monk glanced at her, a smile on his face. Seeing her awake, he abandoned his post, moving to her side and checking her bandages. She had stopped bleeding, but Miroku still thought her too thin. "I'll be right back," he promised.

Grabbing a few items from his pack, he disappeared returning an hour later with several fish, some berries and a dead rabbit. Tranquility gaped at the monk, as if seeing a man hunt was completely foreign to her. It didn't take long for her stomach to growl in protest, the smell of his food very appealing.

Miroku laughed. If it's one thing he had learned in the past two years, none of his companions had ever been able to resist or turn away his cooking; that included the stubborn InuYasha. Granted, Kagome's food from the future was good, but it lacked the taste that a person can get if it were freshly made.

"You should eat more," he teased, giving her the first helping. Between the two of them, they easily finished off the ten fish, the rabbit and the loaf of bread he still had in his sack. She still looked slightly hungry, but at least she could move with more energy now.

Despite his smile and laughter, Tranquility could still see that shadowed look in his eyes. She was all too familiar with that kind of pain. "You should rest, monk."

"Call me Miroku," he insisted, taking a cold cloth to wipe away the dried blood on her arms. "One of us needs to keep watch, and I doubt seriously you're up for the task yet. Compared to the gift you granted, losing one night of sleep is minor." Miroku was tired, but glancing at her pale features, he knew that she had been on the verge of collapse and exhaustion for several days.

"I think you're the one who needs to rest," he gently scolded, treating her as if she were a child. She scowled, reminding him of Kagome. "You're going to try and resist my help, aren't you?" Tranquility looked slightly guilty, making Miroku laugh all the harder. "I better warn you now, it's useless. Once I've set my mind to something, nothing will change it."

Tranquility had to leave, before this kind man was killed. He meant well, but Miroku was still human. Besides Sesshomaru, there was always Naraku. She hadn't felt his presence since she ran off, but that didn't mean he wasn't ready to strike at any moment. Her dreams had been horrifying. She could still see their lifeless eyes staring at her, her hands and face covered in their blood.

It was her fault! She had murdered them all and had laughed while she did it. Never! I won't let Naraku control me so easily!

Suddenly she felt strong arms wrap around her, holding her close as she trembled. Why was everyone so willing to protect her? This monk was clearly human, but he was like Kagome and Rei. He didn't call her a freak, and he was giving her a smile that offered friendship.

"I..."

"You're still very young," he told her. "Must you do this alone?" He wasn't serious! Tranquility jerked away, already bolting for the entrance. To her surprise, Miroku was already there, blocking her path. He seemed amused, but no less determined.

"Don't feel obligated for a gift that I freely gave!"

"Stop trying to send me away, it isn't going to work." Tranquility backed away, but he kept the same distance until she was trapped in a small corner. "I know what you're thinking, that it's best if you did this alone. It's not only insane, but stupidity."

Her lavender eyes flashed, but he refused to back off. To see his wide stance and his arms crossed, almost made her laugh. "You can't help me."

"Are you so certain? How will you know unless you're willing to believe in someone?"

"You can't fight a demon!" She snapped, hoping she'd frighten him off. His only response was a bitter laugh.

"Child, you have so much to learn. I've been fighting demons since I was able to walk. Humans either learn to survive in this world, or die."

"Stop referring to me as a child!"

"Then stop acting like one! I'm not going to even ask if you can fight. Instead, I'll make a small wager with you."

"What kind of wager?"

"You think that a human can't fight, at least not against a demon. Fine, if you're right then I'll let you go without a further argument. However, if I win, this discussion is over and we travel together."

Tranquility could only stare at the monk in shock. He wasn't seriously thinking of fighting her. Still, if it would send him away... "Why are you so determined about this?"

"Compared to what I was faced with, fighting your enemy is nothing. The wind tunnel was a gift from Naraku. Now that I'm free of the Wind Tunnel, then I no longer have a need to search for him."

"Then this should be easy for you. If avoiding Naraku is truly your intent, then staying with me will only get you that much closer. Miroku, please take the gift and leave. You deserve a happy and normal life."

"Naraku is your enemy, is it?" He found himself laughing around her a lot, but he couldn't help it. Tears streamed down his face, and he knew it was upsetting her, but the entire situation was hilarious. "I'm almost tempted to do as you ask, but my answer is still no."

Tranquility growled, "How can one human be so stubborn? I won't have you killed!"

"And I will not repay your gift by allowing the same fate for yourself! I gave you a choice, and it's your only way to rid yourself of me!" Miroku set aside his staff, knowing he didn't need it. "I respect your concern for my safety, however, you dishonor me by your request."

"Why won't you listen? My entire life has been alone and I've accepted that! You choose a path of death. There has never been anyone to protect me, nor do I expect them to. Please, I want you to live! My friends are so few, that if even one were to die, I could never forgive myself!"

Miroku refused to move, waiting for her to try and leave. He hated the lesson he was about to give, but it was the only way to get through to her. She was about to see a side that a few of his servants dared not to bring out. "I've already given you my say in the matter."

"I don't want, nor do I need your help! Just leave me alone!"

One step, and he already had Tranquility flat on her back. She didn't even see him move. His hand pressed painfully against her arms, the brown of his eyes cold and hard. "We will not continue this," he warned dangerously. "Insist on acting like a child and you will be treated as such. Perhaps you need to understand why I have no choice but to follow."

She could only stare and listen, too shocked that she had been beaten. Tranquility had been in some challenging fights, but Miroku was on a level that surpassed even the grand masters of the schools she visited. Should she be surprised? This was Feudal Japan. Where she came from, one learned martial arts as a hobby or even a sport. Here, it was a way of survival. It was kill or be killed.

"The gift you offered can never be free! I never even dared to hope that it could be cured. It was my fate and I had accepted it! If I die trying to keep you alive, then that is my choice, not yours!"

"Miroku..."

He grasped her chin with the hand she had healed, fire blazing in his eyes. Tranquility sighed, knowing he had won. It wasn't a thrilling thought. To be beaten so easily, gave her all the more reason to stay away from Sesshomaru and the others. "Naraku came to you in a dream, promising death to your friends."

"How...?"

"Naraku only gains control if you allow him to. Yes I was cursed, but I chose to find and fight him regardless. He has a young boy in his grasp, and at times he's able to break free of it. Narkau has forced him to do unspeakable things, but we're still trying to save him."

"You say you're not a child, and perhaps on human terms you're right. However, according to the demon world, you're still too young to have full access to your powers. Your fate is determined by Naraku only if you allow it to happen."

"By avoiding your friends, you give that much more power to Naraku. If you're going to continue on this path, then stop being so stubborn and allow me to help. It's suicide to go alone!"

"Fine, but only if you teach me how to fight! I've never seen moves like yours, and I watched the masters."

Miroku snorted. "I'm not going to even ask."

"I was good growing up, but I was never officially taught."

"Aren't you a demon?"

Miroku continued to surprise her. She had always been different from her classmates, and had been hated for it. Yet here she was, pinned by the monk, and he respected her. She had so much to learn. "I'm not sure of anything anymore."

"How old are you?"

"Eighteen in two days."

"Are you going to behave now?" Tranquility nodded, knowing it was pointless to argue with Miroku any longer. Smiling, he stood and rested his weight against the cavern wall. Miroku appeared so relax, so different than moments before. "That would explain why Naraku is so determined to have you. You're a child until you hit maturity. Have you gone through the change yet?"

"You know about that?"

"I have a few friends that explained it to me. There's a human even raising a fox demon. I think he's almost ten now."

"That doesn't explain why Naraku would want me though."

"A fully mature demon would be nearly impossible for him to control, and until you've made the transformation, you're vulnerable and easy to manipulate. That's why he went after the demon slayer's brother. He couldn't fight Naraku's mind control at his age."

"Your power was nothing to sneeze at yesterday, and I have a feeling that's only a small portion of what you're capable of. Do you even remember?"

"A little."

"You're a danger to both sides." Miroku saw her withdrawing and immediately rested a hand upon her shoulder. "Tranquility, I'm only making you aware of the problems you're too stubborn to see. All we have to do is to teach you how to use and control this power. In the mean time, we hide for a few months, wait for your transformation and then decide if we confront your enemy with or without your other friends."

He made everything sound so simple, and she couldn't help but hope and believe in him. "How you can be so optimistic?" She asked.

"When you live with death all your life, it tends to put a new perspective on things. By the way, I never asked your name."

"Tranquility." Miroku almost regretted his decision to help her, but didn't have time to say anything before they heard the crushing of leaves outside the cave. Tranquility shrank back, somehow squirming into a crack. Miroku shook his head, already moving outside to meet the intruder.

The last person he expected to find was Sango, the demon slayer on Kirara's back. Miroku wasn't sure how to react, choosing to keep an indifferent expression. He wasn't going to give in without some resistance. What kind of idiot did she take him for?

"Sango," he greeted, his voice cool. She flinched, but Miroku refused to let her off so easily.

"Everyone was worried about you," she whispered, not looking up. Sango had landed for a reason, but had forgotten when she had spotted Miroku. Sliding off Kirara's back, she walked towards the angry Monk and clutched at his sleeve. She tried to read his expression, but it was cold and strangely blank. Sango had done this and it hurt her to know that they may never be friends again.

Miroku should have known she didn't come because she wanted him. "As you can see, I'm perfectly fine." He moved towards the water, washing his hands free of dirt and breakfast. "I'm not going back, so quit wasting your time."

Sango struggled against the tears threatening to fall. She never thought her heart would feel so painful, but listening to Miroku made her feel all the guiltier for the way she had acted. "Miroku, I never had a chance to say thank you. And, you were right. I was wrong to slap and you, and for that I apologize."

Miroku forgot to keep his mask, long enough for her to notice. Sango realized that he didn't want to get hurt again, placing an invisible barrier between them. He hadn't expected Sango to apologize; it was a first and he didn't know how to respond without seeming childish. "Sango..."

Sango suddenly threw her arms around his neck, crying into his robe. "Miroku, I'm so sorry. I knew you were different, but I was afraid and..."

Miroku smiled, returning her embrace. If she was willing to apologize, then he could certainly forgive her. "We'll talk about this later, Sango."

"You'll come back."

He sighed, burying his hands in her thick hair. It felt good to hold her, watching her reaction as he became more possessive. Miroku wanted this woman, more than she could possibly ever want him in return. "Things are not so simple any longer, Sango. Our paths will cross in time, but for now I need the others to stay away from me."

"Why?" she asked, searching for a possible threat. Miroku grabbed her chin, forcing her to look at him. His gaze was so intense, that she could only stare at him helplessly, a knowing smirk on his face. This time he wouldn't give her a chance to hit him, trapping her arms against her sides.

Sango blushed, his other hand still holding her chin captive. "Miroku..."

"I grant you a gift, a promise that I will return, Sango." He was far from gentle, taking her mouth with a desire that had been pent up for far too long. Sango whimpered, taken by surprise and helpless to stop him. She had never expected this, her entire body betraying her.

He tugged on her lower lip, his tongue demanding entry. They were lost in the moment, completely forgetting their missions. Reluctantly he pulled away, but Miroku was satisfied to know that Sango would forever be his. He could see it in her eyes as she weakly climbed on to Kirara. "Go, before I change my mind and continue what I started," he growled.

"You're not angry still, are you?"

Miroku smiled, the glow in his eyes brighter. She took a deep breath, feeling her stomach flip. His look was predatory and possessive. Miroku was making no effort to conceal what he wanted, and Sango suddenly knew he had felt this way for some time. Sango started to leave when she remembered something.

"Miroku, the others are searching for a girl."

"I know what they're after, and I won't help."

She blinked, wondering why he was so intent on not returning. He was standing protectively in front of the cave, as if he were telling her to back off. "You've seen her," Sango said. She couldn't hide the hint of jealousy, blushing when Miroku smiled.

"Do as I ask and keep the others away from me?" His expression was on the border line of hostile, a deadly promise if he was pushed to far. "Do you trust me, Sango?"

His anger was directed more towards her friends than herself, but she knew better than to continue pushing him. "Miroku..." He growled, snatching her around the waist and pulling her off the two tail.

"That's not an answer," he whispered, pushing her against a tree. "Will you do as I ask?" His breath teased her skin, moving to the hollow of her throat.

"Hai."

"Do you trust me?" He tugged on her ear, driving all thoughts from her mind.

"Yes..." she gasped.

"I won't repeat myself, Sango. Leave, or I'll take you on this grassy floor here and now; damn the consequences or if I'll be held responsible!"

Sango fled, knowing he would follow through with his promise. Was she running from him, or herself? She was terrified of the commitment he wanted from her, but the few days apart had been tearing her apart.

I'll do as you ask, Miroku. I just hope you know what you're getting into.

She was so far into the crack, he almost thought she had found a way out the other side. Miroku laughed, "She's gone. You can come out now."

"I knew this was a mistake. If I stay..." Miroku snatched her wrist and slammed her against the wall. He didn't hurt her, but it was enough to gain her attention.

"Tranquility, we've had this discussion. As it stands, you no longer have a choice but to stay in my company. You're running from the best trackers known to humans and demons alike! I don't even think hiding from them is possible! However, unless you know these lands, you might as well give up now!"

"Miroku, I don't want..."

"What you want is irrelevant. Sango has promised to keep them away. If you leave now, your friends will find you. To be honest, I think they should."

Tranquility growled, but Miroku refused to be intimidated. "Get read to leave. Koga's wolf pack patrols these waters frequently. I'm amazed you made it this far without being spotted."

Waiting for him to pack his things, Tranquility anxiously watched the sky, terrified of being discovered. "We should leave the river."

"Why? It covers our scent."

"Tranquility, if Sesshomaru is the one tracking you, then that will only delay him. Who else are you hiding from?"

Tranquility suddenly felt like a little kid, having to tell her father why she had been sent home early from school. "Koga and Artemis," she whispered.

"I know what Koga is capable of. Who is Artemis?"

"He's a Solarian." Miroku paled, almost dropping his staff. "What's wrong?"

"I think I'd rather face Naraku. Have you lost your mind, Tranquility? Solarians rarely lose a fight and they always catch what they hunt."

Tranquility felt discouraged, but Miroku was already heading out, waiting for her to join him. "You're still going to help?"

"I haven't a clue why, but yes. I'm not sure if I should pity or respect this foolish quest of yours; however, a promise is a promise. You're trying to protect them, aren't you?" He took her silence as a yes and sighed. "Tranquility, hasn't it occurred to you that they don't need it. I'm surprised that they're even getting along."

"Why?"

As they walked, Miroku told her of the wars between the wolves, dogs and Solarians. The wars had been fierce and deadly, all sides taking heavy losses. "All the more reason to keep you away from Naraku," Miroku finished.

"I don't want to kill them!" She cried.

"Not telling them will be just as harmful. Tran, while we're traveling, consider the mental pain you cause your friends. I should know; I did the same when I discovered my curse."

"That's why I said you can go."

Miroku sighed, as if he were speaking to a child; "Tranquility, my family is gone, destroyed by Naraku. I'm the last of my line and as long as Naraku still lives, I'll never truly be free of him."

"Where will we go?" Tranquility asked. His smile made her laugh; "I forgot, you're a monk."

"We'll take the river to the next village. From there we'll catch a ride on a hay wagon until we reach the northern mountains. If we're careful, we can use the snow to hide our tracks and scent." After washing up, Tranquility was finally ready to leave, following close behind Miroku. He appeared so calm and confident that she lost any doubt about his joining her.

"I can't believe this!" Artemis growled, letting Serenity rest. They had been traveling for several months, finding no sign of the runaway.

"Do you think she has her memories back?"

"If she did, Tranquility would know it's stupid to run and hide like this! She can't recall any of the battles we fought, therefore doesn't think we're strong enough to stop a simple half-demon."

"You can't blame her, Artemis. It's not like I haven't done something just as stupid. Remember the dark moon?"

"Don't remind me. It's one of the few times that I ever agreed with your boyfriend on anything."

"I did make him angry, didn't I?"

"You could have been killed."

"My life was no more important than my friends."

"You're as bad as Tranquility. If you ever pull a stunt like that again..." Artemis took a chunk out of an old oak, releasing some of his anger. "Dammit, why can't we find her!"

"Are you sure that none of us haven't?"

Since coming to Feudal Japan, her telepathic abilities had increased tremendously. Green eyes stared at the Lunarian, waiting for her to explain her question. She didn't seem to know how to continue. With a sigh, he slowly relaxed, allowing Serenity to rest against his side.

She was starting to depend on the large feline more and more, and Artemis preferred it this way. Strangely, she could no longer become Sailor Moon, nor did he want her to. "I think Sango has an idea of where she's at."

"Sango doesn't lie, Serenity. If she had seen Tranquility, she would have said something."

"I never said she saw her, only that she may know of her location. Haven't you noticed how quiet she is?"

"I thought it was because of the Monk."

"Sango said he refused to return to the group. At first I thought it was because of the fight they had, but now I'm not so sure. She seems so sad, and worried. Sango avoids conversations with Kagome, and spends hours in the sky with Kirara."

"Where is she now?"

"With InuYasha and Kagome."

"Aren't they patrolling the Northern Sector?"

"Hai."

"I wish I knew what's she so afraid of? According to Rei and Kagome, Tranquility has never run from a fight in her life."

"I don't think she's running because she's afraid. She runs because Naraku has promised to use her against her friends and the one person she loves."

"You can feel her?"

"Only for brief moments and only when I'm asleep. She's very sad, but I think someone knocked some sense into her."

"Who?" he growled.

Serenity laughed, stroking his golden stripes. "I don't know his name, only that he doesn't agree with her sense of protecting everyone."

She was hiding something from him, her eyes glowing with mischief. Artemis growled, starting to reach for her with his paws. "Lunarian, you may not know his name, but you have an idea."

"You worry too much, Artemis. At least she's safe, and still recovering from another sparring match."

"And?"

"I can't hide anything from you," she pouted.

"You're not supposed to!" He snapped.

"He's human."

"Serenity..." His patience was growing thin, and he was prepared to torture it out of her. "Wait, you're telling me a human can beat her!"

"He's actually very good and she has yet to win." She finally gave in, knowing that they needed to find her. Serenity could be wrong, but two and two always added up to be four. "I think it's the Monk, Miroku."

Artemis snarled, already wanting to tear the human to shreds. "Doesn't he take advantage of girls?"

"Miroku is harmless. I actually talked to him once."

"And you're telling me now!"

"He didn't say where he was, only that Tranquility was safe. I've never met anyone that can resist my abilities like he can. Miroku doesn't like her decision to avoid Sesshomaru or the others; however, he knows that she'll only run again if he tried to take her back. By staying with her, Miroku feels that he can keep her safe until you do find her."

"How does Sango fit into this?"

"She said she found him on one of her patrols. If he told her to keep us away from him, Sango wouldn't ask any questions. Miroku, I don't think, told Sango about Tran."

"I can't believe I'm actually respecting a human. He's clever and very devious. By having Sango keep the others away from him, he's managed to sneak Tran beneath our very noses. The others won't search for him, thinking that he needs time away from Sango."

"Sesshomaru hasn't found her in the west, Koga just cleared the east and we're almost done with the south. Artemis, I think she's in the northern mountains. It's the only part we haven't searched."

Artemis couldn't believe Tranquility had managed to trick everyone. They had all assumed she was traveling alone, Serenity's dream changing everything. If she had remained alone, Tranquility would have more than likely stuck to the river. Koga had managed to find the cave she had rested in, not recognizing the other scent.

Being a monk, Miroku knew the land better than a lot of the demons. Not only could he hide, but he knew how to defend himself against the demons, having fought with them for several years. He was almost as affective as the demon slayer. "Get Rei and tell her to head for the Northern Mountains with Koga. I'll let her be the one to tell Sesshomaru and the others."

Artemis nuzzled the Lunarians neck, content to rest a while longer. "I hope there isn't a village near by when she does tell him."

"He won't hurt her, will he?" Artemis purred, calming her.

"I doubt it, but don't think he won't make her regret running away either. Has she made the transformation yet?"

"I don't think so, but it's been awhile since she's spoken to me. It was through Miroku last night that I managed to put things together."

"Why now?"

"He's worried. There's been an increase in demons searching for her, and they're not exactly friendly. Instead of engaging with them, he's kept a low profile. Miroku thinks that if he kills any of them, Naraku will know where they're at."

"So we owe the Monk for keeping her out of trouble?"

"Basically."

"These humans surprise me."

"Artemis, you can't judge the entire race because of a minor few. She loves the humans, and by hating them, you hate what Tranquility is. It's a human that risks everything to keep her alive." She turned her face up to look at him, to make him fully realize what the humans have done. "It's the humans that help Kagome fight Naraku. No, they're not perfect, but considering their short life spans, we can't expect them to be."

He started to rise, but Serenity gently held him down, curling closer against his soft fur. Artemis was so warm and she needed to sleep. "We've been searching for several days now and we can use the rest. Artemis, we're all worried about her, but she's not going to come back without a fight."

"You've grown up, Serenity."

"I've certainly waited long enough," she giggled. There was so much more that Serenity wanted to say, but felt insecure about her feelings. He probably thinks of me as a child anyway.

Artemis could sense her discomfort, but chose to give her the time she needed to sort out her thoughts. She was seventeen. Have they really been searching for half a year? Tranquility was almost nineteen and this worried him. Why can't she transform and did it have to do with the block on her memories?

Rei nearly fell out of the sky when she heard the news from Serenity. I'm not telling Sesshomaru! She protested.

Serenity laughed, reminding her that she was the only one that wouldn't get killed. Gliding towards the surface, she landed on a rock, waiting for Koga to catch up and shift. "How angry can Sesshomaru get?" she asked.

"The fight between Artemis and I, consider that child's play." Rei was having second thoughts about telling the Western Lord what she had just learned. "What's wrong? Tranquility isn't hurt is she?"

"No, but..." Rei changed, stretching her long legs and muscles. It had been several days since she had been able to do this, spending hours in the sky. Koga couldn't help but stare, her actions strangely arousing.

"Why do I have the feeling I'm not going to like this anymore than Sesshomaru would?"

"Well, it appears that we all underestimated Tranquility. All of us assumed she would do this alone, but apparently that wasn't the case."

"I knew there was another scent that day!"

"Serenity managed to connect with the one helping her, but he didn't give away their location. He's extremely loyal to Tran, but he's worried enough to know they're in a lot of danger. Naraku will snatch her the moment they reveal themselves."

"He's that close to her?"

"Serenity didn't know. She only knows that the monk refuses to fight them. In doing so, he'll give away both their positions."

"A monk?" Rei almost chose to leave, watching Koga's eyes turn red. "What monk?"

"He didn't say, but Serenity has a strong feeling that it's Miroku. The Monk did refuse to rejoin their group and told Sango to leave him alone."

"Of all the... She is not with that perverted..." It took him nearly an hour to stop his ranting, several trees and bushes now splinters of wood. Rei had transformed, hovering in the sky until he stomped back to the clearing, demanding that she come down. She hesitated, not quite trusting his temper. Rei was definitely considering just leaving Sesshomaru in the dark.

"You're not afraid," he teased with a wolfish grin. "I'm not going to bite, at least not enough to kill you." Koga was still angry, but he seemed to have it under control as Rei did as he asked.

Even on the ground she hesitated, ready to fly at the slightest sign of his temper. His smile grew wider, impossible for her to resist. Rei may be an adult, but by demon standards, she was still very young and could easily be hurt or killed. Koga smelled her fear, but she didn't move as he came closer. "Have you told Sesshomaru?"

He was amused by the flapping of her wings, the only indication that she was more than terrified. "I haven't determined if it's in everyone's best interest yet."

"Let me give you some advise, Phoenix. Don't stay linked to him after you tell him. Miroku treads dangerous grounds with her."

"Why? Serenity said she was safe with him."

"From other demons yes, but from an impossible flirt no! Sesshomaru will kill him."

"You're not serious. Miroku, according to Serenity, treats Tran like a child." Rei again changed back into her humanoid form.

Koga laughed, amused at the idea. "She does act that way."

"Was he really that bad?"

Koga took a step closer, his breath inches from her throat. "Miroku was a little like this." He snatched her waist and pulled her against him. "He can't help himself." To make his point, Koga lowered his hands until they stopped at the edge of her skirt, his fingers brushing against her bare flesh. "A little higher and you have an idea of what he's like. Need I explain further," he growled.

Rei trembled, her face beet red. Did she slap him or pull away? Koga had gone very still, sniffing at her neck. She was intoxicating, the smell of the wind and fresh rain. "Koga?"

Koga leapt away, startled by his reaction. Suddenly he wanted to throttle Tranquility. If it hadn't been for her, he wouldn't have to be stuck with a woman he wanted to pin and take. He was a wolf, and Rei was everything he wanted in a female partner. Her scent was strong and very tempting.

"Rei, you have about five seconds to call Sesshomaru. Continue to hesitate, and I'll start to think you want a distraction." Rei blushed, having a difficult time concentrating. Koga didn't help matters as he came close again, brushing her thighs with his long tail. Why was he acting so strange all of a sudden?

Sesshomaru was in a volatile mood. Not only had he not found her, but he had a strong hunch that she had help. He knew she hadn't recalled the past, or this nonsense would have ended a long time ago. She stubbornly refused to speak with him, and her scent had grown cold after the first day.

The mere thought that someone was helping her made his blood boil. It better not be a male! Tranquility starved for affection, and it would be easy to take advantage of her.

Sesshomaru... He froze. Only two people had the courage to contact him this way, and he knew better than to think it was Tranquility. Despite her lack of communication, he was still aware of her pain. She wanted to answer his call, almost doing so on several occasions. The nightmares held her back, giving her the iron will to resist him. Her determination shocked him.

The next time he allowed her a bath, he would personally take on the responsibility himself. Sesshomaru was accustomed to his command never being questioned, and her lack of trust infuriated the Western Lord.

Rei waited patiently for him to calm, very close to leaving him alone. Sesshomaru felt the fear radiating around her, quickly cutting off all emotions. It did the trick, Rei immediately calming enough to deliver her message. Serenity said to concentrate our efforts on the Northern Mountains.

Why? InuYasha may be an idiot, but he's more than capable of tracking someone.

Not if the person helping her is familiar with InuYasha and how he hunts.

What human would dare hide Tranquility against several demons? Rei knew he would figure it out, and prepared herself for the explosion. With an iron will he forced himself to stay calm, but it was by a thread. Continue.

Tranquility doesn't know these lands, not unless she had her full memories. We all know that isn't true. There's no way she could have found all the passage ways into the mountains unless she found someone to guide her through them. How many people do you know that have that knowledge and can fully protect himself against a demon if need be?

Sesshomaru slowly added the clues together, the control on his anger slipping with each one. It was a fact that she had left the river shortly before Koga found her hiding spot in a cave. It was a fact he had picked up another scent, but dismissed it as more than one occupant at separate times. Miroku was missing and had refused to rejoin Kagome or the others.

Miroku hated Naraku more than anyone, but had made it quite clear he wanted all his friends to stay away from him. If that monk... Sesshomaru was all too aware what the human monk was like, and how many times he had seen a red mark on his face from either the demon slayer or the Miko. Tell me, he growled dangerously.

She hesitated, but Sesshomaru was not known for his patience or forgiving nature if she withheld the information now. Miroku.

All Sesshomaru could see was red, Rei already out of his mind when he roared. The very heavens seemed to split apart, the earth trembling as he raced towards the Northern Mountains at a pace that left burnt marks for miles. He knew that monk and Tranquility would easily forgive him. Miroku knew the region and could definitely hide her from a large group of demons.

If he's laid one hand on her... His mind was a cloud of hate and rage, his heart twisted in jealousy. Tranquility was his and the mere thought of the human monk was enough to send him into a frenzy. All Sesshomaru could feel was the need to kill, to tear a certain monk to shreds.

Rei couldn't believe how dangerous Sesshomaru was. "Koga?" she trembled. "We better find Miroku and Tran before Sesshomaru does."

"Why?" he growled. Rei glared at him, but he wasn't about to take it back. "I dislike the human as much as Sesshomaru. What makes you so sure I won't kill him?"

"He hasn't harmed her," she protested.

"Define your definition of harm! She's a woman and that's all Miroku needs!"

She brushed his face with the tips of her fingers, her touch strangely a comfort. "You're very protective of her, aren't you?"

"We all are," he answered, already changing into his wolf form. "Let's go," he growled.

Rei sighed. Would the three demon's ever forget the guilt? Her death was not their fault, but it was impossible to convince them, especially Sesshomaru. Koga, we'll get her back.

Before or after Naraku does. Damn that monk. He may not be enough to help her.

We'll get her back! Rei shouted in defiance. Koga would have smiled if he could, racing against the wind. She was fast, making it difficult to keep up. I'll never give up on my best friend. His teeth were pulled back, and if she could have seen him, Rei would have known he was laughing at her.

Miroku scowled, peeling the squirming fish from his robes. "Do you mind? It takes ten hours to wash and dry these things!"

Fishing in a frozen lake, Miroku had finally managed to find a spot where they can rest and hide from the demons at the same time. It had been a dangerous journey, Naraku sending more and more of his minions to find Tranquility. He was starting to wonder if Sesshomaru and the others could have kept her safe?

Naraku was holding nothing back at obtaining the gentle female, Tran reminding him of a curious kitten. She certainly got into enough trouble like one. They were surrounded on all sides by white peaks and trees. Even if InuYasha and the others figured out that he was in the northern mountains, he seriously doubted they could track him in places long forgotten.

There was plenty of coverage and more than enough time to teach her the lessons she needed to survive. Miroku smiled, having enjoyed the past six months. Her bruises were less on her arms and legs, and the black eyes had nearly vanished entirely.

He was impressed with her fighting skills, already teaching her the advance skills of his order. She could block most of his attacks and was constantly adding techniques of her own. If it hadn't been for his experience with other demons, Miroku was positive she would have defeated him by now.

Miroku prayed that everything he taught this girl would be enough. She was damn good and it frightened him to think that Naraku would succeed and turn her into something unrecognizable and lethal. She would tell him of the future she had come from, describing scenes that made no sense to him. What was a car?

He would ask her about her fighting style, but Tranquility honestly didn't seem to know. She had watched several master fighters and tried to copy their style, but they were too precise and too accurate for her to simply have picked up. They felt familiar, was all she would say.

The first few weeks had been difficult on them both. Tranquility screamed in fear of Naraku's future and Miroku would find himself trying to calm her for the rest of the night. Yet there was something more, a hint of a darker past that she never remembered upon waking.

These were the moments when he saw her cry, and he wanted nothing more than to drive all her demons away. She was such an innocent, that not even the old Miroku would have considered taking advantage of her. She trusted him with a childlike innocence and was always watching everything he did. Tranquility was an usual demon.

Unlike InuYasha, Sesshomaru, and Koga, she trusted him completely. There was no half way with her. Miroku found himself growing attached to her, seeing her as the sister he never had. Tran laughed when he mentioned it to her, replying that he acted like a protective older brother. She didn't seem to mind.

Miroku sighed. How many times had he pulled her out of danger? Tranquility would smile when he gave her a sharp warning about something, confused when he hid them from the demons that tracked them and excited when they hunted for their meals. She knew so little about the dangers of his world, Miroku often snatching her away from poisonous plants or snakes.

Definitely a cat, he muttered in silence. She was curious about everything, no matter how dangerous it was. She climbed trees, crawled into holes that were often too small, and fell into water holes that Miroku had to fish her out of. Occasionally he would catch a glimpse of Sango and Kirara in the sky, but they never came close. As promised, she had done as he asked, keeping the others away.

I wonder if she knows.

Another fish slapped his face, Tranquility throwing another before Miroku assaulted her with several snow balls. Squealing in protest, she ducked behind a tree, crouching low to the ground. Yep, most definitely a cat. He was curious to why she hadn't made her first transformation, and found that he was thankful for it.

Demons had a strange ability to track each other, probably because of the youkai that eventually revealed itself. They gave off powerful auras, and was like a beacon to those that a younger one didn't need attention from. How much did it have to do with her forgotten past? Miroku had caught hints of her other life, some of the events she screamed about in her sleep having no relationship to the events she had already spoken to him of.

He threw his staff, knocking the snow from the branches and watched it fall on her head. Tranquility struggled to pull free. Laughing, he walked over, helping her up. She couldn't believe how much fun she had when she was with Miroku. He could be serious when needed to be, but Miroku much preferred to be smiling or goofing off.

Life had been hard on Miroku, and from what she had seen, on most humans from the Feudal Era. Yet, here they were, running from every demon imaginable and he was still able to enjoy everything around him. She shook the snow off and followed him towards the fire, helping clean and prepare the fish. "You're getting better," he praised.

Tranquility's eyes became distant, but only for a moment before she was smiling again. "It had seemed so easy." Miroku was looking forward to the change. If he were able to bet, he would wager everything he owned that she was a feline. Her unique eyes missed nothing, and they would become narrow slits when she had spotted something to hunt.

Miroku had had a difficult time explaining to her why it was necessary to kill animals for food, but a few days of hunger quickly had her believing him. Her first kill had been a wild stag, her reward being several cuts. Tranquility didn't seem to care as she wiped the blood from her face and hands.

He taught her how to skin and cook the meat, to use the fur for clothing and to make jewelry out of the bones. There wasn't a part of an animal that he wasted, saying it was sinful to nature and to the gods. Tranquility in return taught him things that he had no clue as to where she picked up.

Ideas would suddenly pop into her head, ones such as changing their shoes for moccasins that left no footprints in the snow. It was her stunt after the second month that had freaked him out the most. Using the blood of her kills, she would often disguise their scent, adding to their evasion of her friends and Naraku.

A few more months, and Miroku doubted she would need his help for much of anything. She knew how to wait patiently in a tree, hide from even the most alert creature and how to kill without ever making a sound. It was always a sight to watch her in action.

Miroku didn't even want to think about what would happen once Sesshomaru or Koga caught up to them. He couldn't determine anything about Artemis yet, but preferred to remain on the safe side and keep running and hiding. He had been noticing a gradual change in her. Tran was happier, and she seemed to forget about her problems for several days before they were on the move again.

She was learning to have fun, and she never felt lonely any longer. Tran still missed Sesshomaru, but it was easier knowing that he was safe and that Miroku was helping her. If it hadn't been for the Monk, she never would have made it this far. Even he was starting to admit that Naraku was a major issue. He still believed that Sesshomaru and the others could prevent her horrible fate, but Miroku wasn't about to take a chance on it.

Their first month of travel was mostly in fields or on hay wagons. She learned the most during this time, always interacting with the people Miroku visited. The people loved her, surprised at her gentle nature and her affection for children.

Miroku had learned that babies were an issue. She loved them, but they always seemed to make her cry. Tran couldn't even say why, only that it hurt to hear their first moments of life. Reincarnation was not a new concept to Miroku and often their death in the previous life was a violent one.

Half way through the second month, they began to run into other demons, trying to avoid them without a fight. It had been nearly impossible and Naraku always seemed to be close on their heels. He seemed to want Tranquility as badly as he wanted the jewel shards and the idea terrified Miroku. Fox Demons responded to her easily, and Miroku couldn't possibly see the power that Naraku was so desperate to have.

She was too gentle natured. Could she really become so powerful that Tran would slaughter all of her friends? Tran seemed to believe it and became all the more determined to stay away from them. It had taken her time to accept Miroku, but he never once let his guard down.

Miroku remembered seeing the affects of Naraku in Sango's younger brother, and it was terrifying. According to Sango, he had been a gentle person, still in the training stages of becoming a demon slayer. That had all changed the minute Naraku took control, turning Kohaku into a lethal killing machine.

He didn't care how long it took, but until Tran fully remembered her past or made her transformation, he would never leave her to fight this battle alone. Miroku doubted that she would want to anymore. Tranquility was totally reliant on him, accepting the fact that she was not as strong in the Feudal Era as she was in hers.

Tranquility was becoming an exceptional cook, and they often took turns switching out and competing to be the best. After they had finished off their meal and cleaned up around the fire, they rested, hidden by a small cave that opened up further back. The cave connected to several other tunnels, some leading to hot springs and lava pits.

She loved to explore, and would be gone for several days before she returned to the surface. Miroku had learned not to worry, discovering that she had perfect vision in the dark and never got lost. It would prove to be useful if they should ever need to flee in a hurry.

It was at those times she was always the saddest. She had recently returned from one of her wanderings and Miroku had spent all afternoon trying to cheer her up. "You miss them." It was a statement and she didn't even bother trying to hide her feelings anymore.

"I can feel him," she whispered. "Sesshomaru has been close for several days. That's why you haven't seen me. I couldn't afford to have him find us."

"And the others?"

"If Sesshomaru is here, then it's safe to assume that the others are as well."

"Perhaps it was time we moved on anyway," he sighed.

"Miroku?" The monk looked frightened, but he was too much of a friend to say anything. His face had taken on a shade of green. "What's wrong?"

"I think now is a good time to tell you why I'm just as eager to stay away from Sesshomaru and the others as you are. If they catch me with you... Naraku will be the least of my problems."

Tranquility released a fierce growl, her eyes flickering before they returned to normal. Did they just change colors? I could have sworn they had turned a golden-silver.

Miroku was like a brother to her, and no matter what her feelings towards Sesshomaru or Koga, they would never be allowed to harm the gentle monk. Well... Almost gentle monk. Miroku did have his moments when he scared the life out of her. They seemed to come out the most when they were training and when she was doing something that threatened her life.

The monk could be a whole other person, sadistic and deadly. Moving closer to the fire, he pulled his knees to his chest, and rested his chin on them. "I've already told you about the curse Naraku placed upon my ancestor, but I kind of left out small little details."

"From generation-to-generation, the curse would be passed down until there were no other male descendants. I am the last male of my line. Every year, the tunnel became bigger and stronger. I knew eventually it would have destroyed me and the thought terrified me."

"I had two options. One was to find a woman to bare me a son and the second was to kill Naraku. Seeing how the second was almost an impossibility, I tried to find the woman that would grant this request. Perhaps any woman would have done, but I guess even a cursed monk had his standards. Could anyone blame a guy for wanting beauty and charm. It wasn't the kind of woman that I wanted, but the way I approached them that got me in trouble."

"Let me guess," Tranquility giggled, "You were a womanizer." Miroku blushed, but nodded. "What happened to make you change? You don't act like that around me."

"To be perfectly honest, Tran, I don't think I could have. You're too innocent and I see you as a little sister. I'm not saying your not attractive, just that I can't find it in myself to take advantage of you."

Miroku threw another log onto the fire, continuing with his story. "Sango is what changed."

"The demon slayer?"

"She was everything that I had taught myself to avoid. Sango was beautiful, strong, but extremely lethal when you make her angry. She was a demon slayer, but I couldn't help but fall in love with her."

"I can't even remember when I started to like her, or when I started to change. Women no longer held the same appeal and I stopped harassing them. A few months ago, Sango had been badly hurt and I bandaged her arm. I guess I deserved it, but I had been trying so hard to change."

"Sango thought I was going to take advantage of her, and slapped me before I even had a chance to move away."

"I can't say that I blame her, but Sango should have been more patient. Perhaps she did notice the changes and didn't know how to respond. Instead of thinking about how she felt, she instantly blamed it on your past actions."

Miroku gave her a sheepish grin. "That was Sango outside the cave that morning," she asked.

"Hai."

"Why didn't you go with her?"

"To give her time to think about what she wants. As long as I'm around, she'll always try to act as if I mean nothing to her."

"Do you regret traveling with me?" Miroku heard the tremor in her voice, and sighed.

"I miss Sango, but no. This quest has given me a chance to learn a few things as well."

Moving closer to the fire, Tranquility closed her eyes and drifted to sleep. "Miroku?" she asked, her voice thick and slurred.

"Go to sleep, Tran."

"I promise to keep you safe."

"That better not mean you're running off," he growled. She was already asleep, never hearing his last words. "Crazy kid."

Miroku felt her that night, the same person that had talked to him a few times before. The first time they had connected, he had been startled and slightly angry. He quickly learned she meant no harm, only that she was curious. You're worried about her, she said.

The others know I'm here, don't they?

Hai.

I don't know if I should be grateful, or terrified.

Artemis has accepted your presence in her life. He doesn't like it, but he rather have a fighter near her than Tran trying to do this on her own.

You know who I am?

It wasn't that hard to figure it out. Even Sesshomaru added the equation together and came up with the answer.

You're not making me feel any better,' he grumbled. 'Sesshomaru isn't exactly the friendliest person in the world.

Sesshomaru would never do anything to harm Tran. He may bare his fangs at you, but I have a strong feeling Tran will give him a nasty fight over you.

She is a bit over protective, isn't she?

According to Rei and Kagome, it was a good idea that she had no idea that I was nearby or the life I lead before now.

Why?

I died twice, and it wasn't pleasant. Artemis has no idea either, and I don't think I'll tell him for awhile.

Who is Tran to you?

She's the sister I never met. Tran never saw me before she died in the past, and I was adopted when she was four.

You had a question to ask me?

Artemis wants to know if she's managed to transform yet?

No, and that bothers me.

The girl paused, returning a few moments later. Artemis doesn't like it. She should have been able a long time ago.

I think it has to do with her past and her fear that Naraku will be able to find her if she does. The ability is there; I've seen signs of it. She's instinctively fighting it.

Artemis wants you to keep protecting her. He understands why you continue to hide her. Naraku's demons have been attacking non-stop. There doesn't seem to be an end to them.

How bad is it?

Do you really want to know?

I need to know what we're up against.

Sango was badly injured yesterday and Kagome was poisoned. Artemis has spent the last several hours with Rei trying to heal them.

Rei? I think I've felt her a few times.

She's a psychic. I'm impressed that you can hide from her as easily as you do.

It's an ability I picked up from a tribe of monks several years ago. They taught me several techniques of the mind that make it impossible for demons to scan my location.

That still doesn't explain how you've managed to hide your scent for this long. Artemis is quite frustrated that you've managed to elude him.

I'm not surprised. He is a Solarian after all, but then again, so is Tran. I think a part of her does remember. She comes up with some unique ideas that I don't think she learned in the modern era.

The woman laughed. I think you've upset my guardian. He's invented a few more swear words.

Happy to oblige.

Keep her safe, Miroku. She still won't talk to any of us. All we want is for her to be happy.

I aim to please, my lady.

Sango's right. You're an impossible flirt. I can see why she likes you so much.

He felt her leave and Miroku felt better knowing that everyone was alive. Miroku didn't like the idea that Sango was hurt, but at least she was taken care of. Tran was whimpering in her sleep. Miroku had been around long enough to know that she was having a nightmare and he doubted that it was about Naraku. She had learned to block the half-demon from her mind. These were memories of the past, the dark ones she tried so hard to forget.

"My baby," she cried. "Stop! Please don't do it!" She screamed, her body convulsing and thrashing around violently against the floor. Miroku grabbed her, holding her tight as she continued to live in the past.

"Tran..." He whispered, stroking her soaked hair. "Shhh... It's only a dream... Let it go..."

"Rin..."

Miroku felt as if the wind had been knocked out of him. What the hell did Rin have to do with Tran and was it the same child that now traveled with Sesshomaru?

She couldn't scream; everything was dark and her body hurt. A sharp pain stabbed through her chest, filling her lungs with blood. They were ripping her stomach open, tearing out the life she had created. No! She wanted to tell them, drowning in her own blood.

A foot slammed into her belly, her muffled cry ignored. They kept her alive for hours, and as the last of her blood spilled to the ground, her captors had ripped the bag from her head and struck her savagely across the face. She didn't even know how she was still alive, her stomach torn open and her baby screaming at her rude entrance into the world.

Grasping her chin, they looked into her dying eyes and laughed. "Sesshomaru will die, but not before he sees the bodies of his wife and freak of a child!" Not giving her a chance to respond, he pulled his knife and slit her throat. Her vision dimming, she reached up her hand, stretched towards her baby girl. Rin, I will... A silver light bathed the camp they had taken her too, taking with it Tran's life and sending the baby to a time and place where she would be safe and protected.

"Tran, please wake up!" Again she screamed, striking Miroku painfully across the face. He had been trying for several hours to reach her, but nothing seemed to work. I need your help! He cried out to her sister.

Miroku immediately felt the presence of three people, all giving him their strength. The past has its grip on her, a male voice growled. It's killing her.

How do I help her?

Call to her. You're the only one close enough. We will lend our strength.

Miroku didn't recognize the voice, but he trusted it. "Tran! It isn't real! Let it go! You're hear, in a cave!"

With his connection to the Solarian, he was able to see her nightmares and recoiled in horror. He witnessed her brutal death again and again, and the flash of light before she died. God, I don't understand! Miroku never thought he could hate his own kind until that moment, but he did.

Now is not the time! Tran has placed all of her trust in you, and it's that trust that we're depending on to bring her back!

Miroku forced back the need to puke, but was unable to stop the flow of tears. The scene was replaying itself, but before they could begin hurting her again, he captured her in a protective embrace and carried her away into the darkness, away from the horror of that night. Tran, please come back. You don't have to live that anymore.

It hurts! Make it stop! I don't want to remember this! Please! Make it go away!

A golden and silver light surrounded them, erasing all memories of her past. Miroku knew it was the right thing to do, unable to see her suffer. That night would have sent her over the edge, and none of them were prepared to allow it to happen. Miroku, the voice roared.

He trembled in terror. This one he knew, and he was beyond angry. Sesshomaru had never been so terrified in his life, and he grieved over the child the humans had ripped from his wife. He didn't understand the silver light, nor did he try to. All he knew was his wife had been savagely slaughtered, his child taken from him.

I won't keep her from you, Miroku sobbed in anguish. God, just don't let her see that again.

Miroku couldn't stop crying, rocking back and forth with the unconscious woman in his arms. He didn't understand, his heart couldn't comprehend such hatred and violence. He showed them their location; it didn't matter if Tran would be angry about it later. Her running was insane, and he couldn't allow it. Not after what he had just witnessed.

"Mi..ro..ku..." She was awake, staring at him in pain. Images kept returning, struggling against the power trying to block them.

A tear hit her cheek, but she didn't seem to notice as she held his robe painfully tight. She couldn't close her eyes; she saw their faces, the blood and... "Humans..." she sobbed, Miroku holding her like a broken child. "They..."

"Tran, please let it go. You don't have to remember." His gentle words only made her cry harder, Miroku continuing to rock her. She was beyond his ability to help, knowing he had did the right thing by calling to the others for help. "Shhh... Let it go."

As he waited for one of her friends to arrive, he held her throughout the night, talking to her. Miroku hated her silence, the tears that would never stop on either of them. For the rest of his life, he would never forget that scene. She stared at the fire, unable to fall back asleep, nor would Miroku have allowed it.

"Miroku?" She whispered, afraid that he would leave her alone in the dark. He was exhausted, but he forced himself to remain awake.

Her eyes were filled with pain, Artemis unable to fully erase the memory. He needed to be closer, still a few hours away. In the mean time, Miroku would have to keep her calm and talking. "What is it, Tran?"

"Do you believe in re-incarnation?"

"Hai."

Pulling his cloak tighter around her shoulders, he tried to think of the right words. "Kagome is the re-incarnation of another soul, but I'm starting to think it was someone completely different. Everyone seems to think she's Kikyo re-born."

"Kikyo?"

"She was a Miko that protected the Jewel of Four Souls."

"I see glimpses of my other life," she finally admitted. "Some are good, but most of them make me sad and afraid."

"Tran, stop. We're not going to allow anything else to happen to you. Please, you have to trust in the strength and love of your friends."

"Miroku, I'm glad we met. Kagome and yourself show a side of humanity that make me believe they're still worth protecting."

How could she possibly think that after what the humans had done? Her soul was as pure as they came, but scared by the cruel hatred of the past. There was nothing he could do except be her friend, and to continue protecting her.

Before he had met InuYasha and Shippo, he had believed that all demons were evil or needed to be strictly controlled. Now Miroku knew that, like humans, that demons could be both good and evil. He had no idea where Sesshomaru stood. He was a force to be feared, created by the humans that had murdered his mate.

Artemis was the first to appear, the large Panther, pressing his nose against her feverish skin. Tran whimpered another wave of light washing over her. There were tears in his beautiful coat, and with a cry, he curled against the girl he had protected for so long.

Koga was next, just as devastated as the Solarian. Rei had been connected to Serenity, both women suffering from the nightmare with Tranquility. The wolf demon couldn't find it in himself to hate the monk, not when he looked into his eyes and saw the raw pain and horror. Miroku had been willing to die for her.

The last to join them shook the very foundation of the mountain, steam coming from his mouth and nose. Everything in him screamed to kill the human, unable to see him as a friend. All he could picture were the humans killing his wife and it was driving him crazy.

Koga blocked Sesshomaru's vision of Miroku, Artemis quietly telling the human to release Tran and slowly back away. Tran would never forgive Sesshomaru if he killed Miroku, and used their bodies to push him towards the entrance. The monk was petrified, but if Sesshomaru killed him, he wouldn't have blamed the Western Lord.

Sesshomaru took a step towards her, his eyes never leaving the two demons nor the human. He snarled, torn between going to his mate and destroying the threat to her life. Artemis growled, prepared to defend the human if necessary. Tranquility whimpered again, covered in sweat. Sesshomaru inched closer, placing his body between her and them.

He had felt the moment her barriers had dropped, re-living every moment and Miroku's cry for help. It was the only thing stopping Sesshomaru from completely destroying him. Slowly, he lowered himself to the cavern floor, wrapping himself protectively around her trembling body.

"Let's go," Koga whispered to Miroku. "Stay behind us, and do not draw attention to yourself. None of us will be able to stop him."

Miroku didn't argue, knowing his life hung by a thread. Sesshomaru was beyond reason, his youkai fully prepared to defend his mate. Once outside the cave, Miroku collapsed and started to cry uncontrollably. It didn't matter that he was breaking down in front of two powerful demons. All he could see was the blood and the baby.

He heard a sound of shimmering music, but didn't notice the Panther had shifted forms until he was kneeling before him, his eyes a piercing blue. Miroku could look in them forever, wondering how they could change colors the way they did? "She was bound to remember. You could not have stopped it."

"Does she have to?"

"For the moment, no. Sesshomaru knew what I was doing, and he didn't fight it. We would have lost Serenity as well; she was fully connected to Tranquility."

Tranquility was in a world of chaos and confusion. At times she would be surrounded by the blood and piercing pain of the knife, others she could only feel the calming presence of her mate. She didn't even ask how he had found her, Tran couldn't be away from him.

She slowly touched his face, needing to feel him, to know that he was really there. It was the only thing that temporarily took the pain away, even with the full effort of Artemis trying to take the memories away. He snarled and growled, unable to think clearly.

Sesshomaru had felt every thrust of their knives, every cry and the tearing of her flesh. She had purposely hid this from him in the past, but unable to cope with the trauma of remembering, Sesshomaru had finally seen the truth. The Western Lord had never known that she was carrying his child. She must have been at least five or six months before they took it.

The Demon Lord roared his cry of pain and loss, bringing more tears to the companions that had searched for Tran. InuYasha had never known his brother to grieve, Serenity still rocking back and forth in terror and pain. Rei had curled into a fetal position, sobbing uncontrollably.

Artemis and Koga returned a few hours later, the Panther carrying Miroku and settling him near the fire. The Monk was still in a state of shock, having witnessed Tran's thoughts and nightmare personally. It had nearly destroyed him, holding a woman that he had no idea how to help.

"What the hell happened?" InuYasha demanded, watching the entire camp fall apart. Sango had weakly thrown back her fur blankets, holding her side as she crawled to the devastated monk. She had never seen him like this and it broke her heart.

Gently she wrapped her arms around him, Miroku quickly latching on with a strangled cry. Sango was clearly frightened. Now would be the perfect time for Naraku to strike, their team unable to function or fight back. "What happened?" she begged, looking at Koga and Artemis. They were strangely quiet, nothing like the confident demons she had seen the past six months.

Artemis went to Serenity, while Koga went to Rei. For hours all that could be heard throughout the mountains and trees were the sounds of their tears, screaming and crying. It was Koga who told them what happened, the others unable to speak or repeat what they had discovered.

Kagome and Sango blanched, while InuYasha truly understood Sesshomaru's hatred of humans. The Miko, long after everyone had cried themselves to sleep, stared at the stars. Of all of us, Tran has suffered the most. When will it stop? She pleaded.

Sesshomaru couldn't recall several days, his mind a cloud of grief. He forced her to sleep, unable to watch her cry anymore. Artemis returned daily, joining his powers with Sesshomaru. Both knew she was unable to cope with the past, and it was cruel to make her.

A child. He still couldn't wrap his mind around the concept, his heart breaking again and again at the loss. Sesshomaru had never known and it was tearing him apart. The days were a blur, the Western Lord unable to focus on anything but his mate.

His youkai was unusually silent, only wanting to help its mate and mourn the loss of what it had never held. It was Miroku that broke through to them, having remembered something about the visions, having been forced to see it again and again. "She's alive."

"Who is?" Sango asked him, stroking back his hair. He had slept with his head in her lap for several days, unable to let her go.

"The child. Tran did something, but I don't understand it."

Serenity came up to the monk, her gaze penetrating and sad. Gently she took his face, the moon on her forehead blazing to life. She gasped, immediately sharing the information with Artemis. Do you understand?

Incredible, Artemis spoke. She tapped into an unknown power and pushed her child into another time. It was her last dying wish.

"It's Rin..." Miroku stammered, not making a lot of sense.

"The human child," Koga gaped.

"Do you know where she came from?"

"She was human. What did I care?"

"I think we should ask Sesshomaru where she came from."

Artemis was shocked, never having heard of this kind of power. Tran, without the aide of the Silver Crystal or her mother, had somehow managed to send her daughter into another time period. "Sesshomaru." The demon lord snarled, still trapped in his own world.

"Dammit, would you pay attention."

The dog demon lifted his powerful head, his teeth pulled back. Artemis was just as deadly, his claws fully extended. "Leave us," Sesshomaru commanded.

"The child," He persisted. "Where did you find her?"

"Why do you speak of Rin?"

"Miroku wants to know where she came from."

"She was in a field, silent and wandering."

Artemis couldn't believe what he was hearing. Sesshomaru had somehow found his daughter, and had no idea that it was her. "Why was she silent?"

Sesshomaru shrugged, "This Sesshomaru does not know."

"We need to know. Don't you understand? Tran somehow sent her daughter to a time where she would be safe and protected!"

"The child is dead," Sesshomaru growled.

"No, she's not. Miroku said he saw Tranquility use a silver light. The baby vanished, and the power took what life she had left. She's alive, and her name was Rin."

"Rin is human," he said, suddenly not so sure.

"Is she? Tran can easily be mistaken for one. She has yet to go through the transformation. Would Rin be any different?"

Sesshomaru didn't dare hope that Artemis was right. Had he been protecting his own child the entire time? Is that why he couldn't find it in himself to part with her? She had reminded him so much of his mate, that it never occurred to the demon lord she was his daughter.

"How is this possible?"

"She is half Lunarian. The power she used was not a Solarian ability."

Sesshomaru shook the fog of grief and depression from his mind, unable to change the past. "Have the Phoenix go to Rin and bring her here. This Sesshomaru will find the truth of the human's words."

"She left while I was trying to convince you."

The dog demon left the cave, moving towards the stream to wash his coat and face. Artemis sat at the entrance, watching the sky and land for intruders. Unaware of Tranquility, none of them saw the red glow pulsating around her small body.

Naraku was trying to touch her mind, but she was fighting back. Hands and feet turned into paws, her body curving towards the ground. The dead fire flared to life, engulfing the young demon female in its warmth. She didn't remember the nightmare from a few days before, but Naraku was still all too real.

Tranquility roared in open defiance, her gold-silver eyes focused on the dark shadow creeping towards her. It lengthened into a large spider, several more joining it. He had finally come for her. She was glad Miroku was no where to be seen, unaware that Sesshomaru had been by her side for over a week.

The half-demon laughed, surrounding her in a dark mist. Tranquility screamed and swiped at the cloud, the tendrils wrapping around her body. "Fighting is pointless," he purred.

Artemis came charging in, but was thrown back by a wave of darkness. Tranquility roared, opening a mouth full of sharp teeth. Her new claws sank into the granite floor, struggling against her restraints. Tran's fur was a rich red, her eyes a golden-silver.

She felt Sesshomaru rush towards the cave, and as he leapt towards Naraku, they vanished. Tran roared, the last sound either of them heard. Tran! He sounded his challenge, his voice the very promise of death. "Get Koga!"

He's already on the move, Serenity told him. We'll catch up.

Artemis was racing beside Sesshomaru, trying to keep their connection with Tranquility. It was faint and fading fast. Don't let him win! Artemis begged her.

I am not so easily defeated, Artemis! Her voice was tired, but she still had a lot of energy to fight Naraku's attempt at controlling her.

InuYasha carried Kagome on his back, Miroku riding behind Sango on Kirara. Koga had taken Serenity, all of them racing against the clock. The final battle had begun, Naraku making his move. At last, everything would finally be decided.

Miroku was angry. "I can't believe I broke my promise!"

"Miroku," Sango called, looking over her shoulder. "There was nothing we could have done. Naraku struck at our weakest moment and took full advantage of it. He would have killed you."

"He's going to change her."

"We'll get her back," she promised. "I'm not giving up on my brother, and you're not giving up on Tran!"

"Thank you, Sango. I'm glad we're doing this together."

"I hated keeping away." Sango gave him a sneaky smile. "By the way, I hope you can convince Artemis, Koga and Sesshomaru you two didn't do anything."

"Sango!" He shouted in protest. Miroku soon realized she was teasing him, trusting him completely. "When this is over, I'll show you what I didn't do," he promised.

"Only if you can catch me first," she challenged.

"Tran is like a sister." Showing her his hand, Sango could only stare in wonder.

"She cured it?"

"She used a silver light then too; that's the only reason why I thought about what I saw in her dream. She was so exhausted that she fainted. If she were close to death, that kind of energy would have finished the job."

"Naraku won't be easy to defeat."

"If he manages to change her, we concentrate on Naraku and keep Tran distracted."

Sesshomaru was losing her. Stay with me, he ordered.

Don't... she pleaded. Already I feel him taking control...

You have to keep fighting.

She didn't answer, Naraku taking full control. She can no longer hear you. Come if you dare. Know that you will kill her or die by her hand.

Tranquility hung in the air, too weak to shift back. She had been fighting for hours, feeling Naraku slowly take control. He knew how to open the right doors, fueling her pain with a dark hatred. No, there has to be something good to remember.

Was there, he whispered softly in her mind. Why would they try to make you forget? They don't want you to see the truth! The humans took everything from you, and your friends helped them. Is that what a friend is for? You spent your entire life protecting them.

Tranquility stopped snarling, letting Naraku come closer. All you know is betrayal and loneliness. Was it not your own parents that forced you upon the Western Lord? Did he not even try to stop them? She was confused, but he wouldn't stop. Image after image flooded her mind, but they were only of the battles between Sesshomaru, Koga, and the humans. Naraku intentionally blocked the good memories, wanting only the hate to survive.

Where was Sesshomaru when you needed him? He allowed the humans to take you, to take the child you never got to hold. You know the truth, young one. They hated you; they all did.

She tried to shut him out, but Naraku was winning and they both knew it. It can't all be bad! Isn't there anything worth remembering! She cried. Naraku smiled, touching her furry face. Soon he would unleash all her hate and rage, directing it towards the very people that stood in his way. It was so simple and he would be able to fully tap into her power.

"I too am hunted, Tran." His voice wavered, Naraku pretending to be afraid. Tran lifted her head, studying him carefully. "The monk's grandfather tried to murder me; was I not to defend myself? Will you let them kill me? I can't fight them all. I'm all alone, with no friends to help me."

Slowly he released her, watching her closely. She made no move to attack, stepping closer to the half-demon. She lifted her muzzle to his face, her tail moving back and forth slowly. "That's it, Tran. Help me fight our enemies. You're the only friend that I have."

All her resistance was gone; replaced by hatred and a desire for revenge. They had taken everything from her. She would kill them all, humans and demons alike! All of them were evil; they were all her enemies! Naraku laughed, feeding her a wave of darkness that consumed her heart and soul. All she could see and want was blood.