"I've had it!" Kuronue yelled as they returned. Youko was unfazed by Kuronue's outburst. Yomi really screwed up this time. "He completely disobeys you and get half our men killed!" he growled. "I agree this was a most unsuccessful day. I will dispatch Yomi soon enough, be patient." Youko said. They walked into the foyer of the hideout. That was when it hit him, the scent of blood. Human blood. Kuronue must've caught it too because he looked as infuriated as Youko. They followed the scent to the garden, where they found a small pool of it; and the scent of another demon. "I don't recognize this sent." Kuronue growled in frustration. "Nor do I." Youko said, equally enraged. Quickly he darted up to his room, praying his light was still there.
She was, reading quietly on the window sofa. River looked up and smiled to them. "Welcome back Youko-sama and Kuronue-sama!" She said cheerily. Youko narrowed his eyes at her kimono, ripped on her arm and shoulder and stained with blood. River shrank back from his malevolent expression as he stalked forward towards her. "How did this happen?" He demanded.
She looked away from him and did not reply. "You are nearly fluent in Japanese and I know you understand me. Tell me who did this River!" He yelled. River whimpered in fear and Youko felt something in him break at the sight. A tear escaped from her tightly closed eyes and ran down her cheek. He reached a trembling hand out to brush it away and brown eyes looked up at him.
"I'm sorry River. I should not have yelled." He whispered. "I don't know his name." She said simply. "Who? The demon who did this to you?" He asked. "Yes. He wants to harm you, he thinks I know things about you that he could use against you. I told him nothing, but he's certain I know something. I am sorry to have caused so much trouble." She said. Youko clenched his teeth in anger and embraced her. His worst fear, one that he didn't even know he possessed, has been realized. Someone is using her to get to him. The scent of her dried blood angered him beyond belief. Whoever did this will pay with their life. He decided.