Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha! I do Kera, the plot, and story line. There. I said it. (sighs)
Thank you Jai, Charlie and Bobbi for helping me finally break through the block with all of your help on this chapter.
I'm sorry for the long delay; it's been months since I updated this one. All I can say is writer's block REALLY sucks! Now on with the story.
Chapter 26:
In the Feudal Era:
"Come on people we don't have all day here," Jakotsu ordered impatiently as he over saw the finishing touches.
Sango grumbled, "They'd better get back soon."
Miroku agreed, "I don't know how much more of this I can take." Sango nodded.
Kera climbed over the well sliding to her feet and asked amused, "Have you guys been like this the entire time?"
Sango brightened greeting, "When did you guys return?"
Kera smiled answering "Just now," as she moved to take her pack, only to have Bankotsu send her a stern look. She sighed and nodded. Bankotsu gave a single nod of satisfaction.
Jakotsu squealed and ran up to Bankotsu saying happily, "Welcome back, big brother!"
Kera asked dryly, "Hey, what am I- chopped liver?"
Jakotsu asked excitedly, "So how did it go?"
Kera smiled looking at her husband and suggested, "Why don't you tell them?"
Bankotsu nodding informed his best friend a little awed, "We found out we're having twins and got to listen to babies heartbeats."
Jakotsu's eyes shot wide as he asked, "Really?" Kera grinning nodded her confirmation.
Jakotsu squealed and hugged Kera asking, "What was it like?"
Kera answered, "It was amazing, " with a smile she couldn't hide.
Jakotsu and Kera began to walk off still talking about it, when Bankotsu called out as a reminder, "Kera... I meant what I said... I only allowed you to come along, because you're right about that bastard, Dorian! I expect you to do exactly as I say."
Catching this Jakotsu asked, "What's that all about?" eyeing her questioningly.
Kera explained, "Dorian is a jerk we went to school with and he won't leave me alone. He seems to have this… obsession with making me his woman." ending with an annoyed sigh.
Jakotsu's grey eyes narrowed a bit, as he said evenly, "I see... well at least here I can help protect you."
Kera smiled warmly saying, "Thank you Jakotsu," patting his hand in a grateful gesture.
Jakotsu said seriously, "You're family now and no one messes with our family!" as he affectionately placed his hand over hers.
Grinning Bankotsu nodded satisfied and asked, "So Jaky, did everything go okay?" curious to how things went.
Jakotsu sighed dramatically, before answering in a displeased tone, "As best as can be expected with such little time to prepare in."
Bankotsu grinned slapping him on the back and said proudly, "That's my Jaky alright." Jakotsu beamed at his leader and Kera smiled.
Bankotsu turned to face Kagome as he heard Inuyasha grumble, "I don't know why you had to bring these stupid things."
Kagome and Inuyasha exited the well arguing. Kagome snapped back testily, "I didn't exactly have a choice Inuyasha." Unable to believe her mother hadn't tried more to help sway her father's mind.
Bankotsu informed with his deep baritone, "Kagome, we aren't going anywhere tonight, so you should get started on your books and stuff." Kagome shot an annoyed glare at her brother-in-law. Bankotsu crossed his arms over his chest and stared her down. Recognizing his stubborn stance, she inwardly sighed, but stood her ground as well.
Bankotsu slightly annoyed, gave her a 'you might as well do it because you won't win' look. After a few minutes Kagome hissed angrily and turned away stomping over to a tree with her Math book, a notebook, her assignments, and a pencil in hand. Bankotsu relaxed his stance after giving a curt nod thinking, "She's learning."
Sango, Miroku, and Shippo blinked stunned. Kera smiled at her sister's albeit reluctant compliance. Bankotsu faced an angry Inuyasha, more than prepared to tangle with the mutt in order to enforce his father in law's wishes.
Inuyasha barked angrily, "Who the hell are you to tell her what to do? And who says we aren't leaving?" he didn't like Bankotsu sticking his nose where it didn't belong.
Bankotsu's eyes narrowed as he shot back in a serious voice, "I said we aren't leaving. She was told two hours a day, by the time that's up it will already be dark." Inuyasha growled.
Kera, wishing to avoid any blood being shed, said, "That's enough Inuyasha!" sliding between the arguing males.
Reaching out Bankotsu firmly slid his wife behind him in a protective gesture and faced Inuyasha, informing him, "Like it or not mutt, my Kera needs a good night's rest before we go anywhere and Kagome is staying with us! If you and the others wish to leave now... go for it."
Sango shook her head saying, "Oh no! I didn't work my tail off for this to all go to waste! We aren't leaving until after the wedding!" staring at the feuding males.
Miroku agreed saying calmly, "Inuyasha, we've all worked ourselves to the bone while you all went to Lady Kagome's time. We need to rest a day or two, and then we can head out when everyone is at full strength."
Shippo added seriously, "Yeah, we've worked really hard! Give us a break."
Jakotsu grinned at his leader saying, "Good, it's settled then." Inuyasha knowing he was out numbered, growled and sat down sulking next to a tree glaring at everyone.
Seeing as their party had grown in number, and Kaede's hut barely handled just the four teenagers with limited room, Bankotsu announced that they were going to stay out under the stars that evening, leaving the surprises of the wedding until the next evening.
Bankotsu giving a curt nod to show the matter was closed, began leading his wife by the hand over to another tree. Together they set up their sleeping spot. Bankotsu faced everyone and started passing out orders. "Jakotsu, go hunt, and make sure you bring back plenty for everyone." Jakotsu nodded and left to do as bid. Bankotsu ordered, "Miroku, go gather us plenty of water." Miroku left to do as bid. Facing his wife Bankotsu suggested, "Kera, go help your sister until Jaky gets back."
Kera smiled kissing his cheek and walked over to Kagome suggesting, "Why don't we get started?" Kagome blowing out a frustrated breath, causing her bangs to flip up; cracked open her math book. Kera read the assignment list, before instructing her to turn to the page and began explaining.
Turning back to the others Bankotsu ordered, "Shippo, I want you to go collect some wood and make a fire."
Shippo happy to be included, said happily, "You got it," and ran off to gather wood.
Sango smiled saying, "That meant a lot to him." as she stood to her feet, thinking maybe Bankotsu wasn't such a bad guy after all.
Bankotsu nodded and instructed, "I want you to help Shippo with the wood. For the first few days, I want to remain with the girls in case they need protection." Sango nodded her understanding, and left to gather wood.
Bankotsu sitting on a rock began polishing his Banryu as he watched over the camp, looking every bit the leader persona he was. Miroku returned carrying the water and placed it beside the fire that Shippo had started with Sango's help. Sango stacked the remaining firewood neatly a safe distance from the fire.
An hour later, Jakotsu returned tossing down a large boar and began cutting it into cook-able chunks.
Miroku set the pot over the fire. After cleaning it, Sango dropped the meat into the pot. While they stew cooked, Kera and Kagome continued Kagome's assignments. When the food was ready, Kera smiled saying, "See Kagome. We've already completed two assignments. Doesn't that make you feel better?"
Kagome mumbled sourly, "Gee two out of a million." still sore over having to work on them in this time period.
Kera laughed. "There isn't a million and just think, if we can do two or more a day; math will be finished just about the time of my next check up." Kagome groaned. Chuckling Kera walked over to her husband's side.
Bankotsu looked up at her and asked, "How did it go?" as she moved to sit beside him.
Kera answered wryly, "We've completed two so far, but she isn't happy about it." staring at him.
Bankotsu shrugged saying evenly, "It's your father's decree, I'm merely enforcing it." as he continued polishing his halberd.
Kera smiled, "I know. Don't worry Ban she'll get over it eventually." Bankotsu nodded.
After shoving her things into her backpack, Kagome huffed as she pulled out her sleeping bag and set it up. She went to help Sango serve the food. Everyone ate and the women and Shippo all turned in for the night. Jakotsu sat next to his leader asking, "So, what was that all about with Kagome and the books?"
Bankotsu sighed as he answered, "Her father wants her to study two hours a day and finish her school work. I'm merely doing as he asked and making sure she gets the time to do so."
Miroku overhearing this, asked confused, "Why?" not able to understand.
Inuyasha sourly spit out, "Because her father thinks she needs it for when she is her time," as he jumped into a tree away from the others, sulking as usual. Jakotsu and Miroku turned in shortly after. Bankotsu stayed up keeping vigil, as did Inuyasha and neither spoke to the other.
Two hours before sunrise, Sesshomaru stopped by to see if the others had returned yet and picking up his half brother's scent, went directly to them. Spotting Bankotsu he walked over to him and calmly asked, "When did you return?"
Bankotsu looking up answered evenly, "This afternoon." staring at the Tai Youkai.
Sesshomaru nodded and produced a splendid wedding kimono, handing it to Bankotsu explaining, "This is for Kera." Bankotsu nodded accepting it. Sesshomaru walked over and sat with his back against a tree waiting for Kera to awaken.
Surprisingly, Jakotsu woke before any of the others. He walked over to his big brother and gasped as he spied the kimono. "Oh it's so beautiful," as his hand ran over the finely crafted silk.
Bankotsu replied, "It sure is Jaky. Seeing her in it, will be even more beautiful." Knowing that his beloved Kera would look amazing in the expensive garment.
Slowly the others woke one by Kera, Kera being the last. She walked over to Bankotsu and kissed his cheek greeting, "Morning handsome."
He smiled and placed the kimono aside, wrapping his arms around her and said, "Morning gorgeous." as he placed a light kiss upon her lips.
She noticed the ever stoic Sesshomaru and greeted with a bright smile, "Hello Sesshomaru."
He stood to his feet and walked over to her locking eyes with her as he said, "I've brought the kimono for your wedding."
Bankotsu nodded and released her waist, to hold up the exquisite garment, for her inspection. Kera gasped as she ran her hand over the silky material lovingly. Turning to Sesshomaru she said, "Thank you, it's perfect."
Sesshomaru nodded and suggested, "Now go and change into it," Kera nodded and taking the kimono, left to change.
Sango and Kagome walked over to Bankotsu and the others. Sango asked, "When is the ceremony?"
Kaede walked up answering, "As soon as they are ready, I will perform the ceremony here." gesturing to the flower decorated area, with bouquet's of vastly different flowers.
Jakotsu walked over setting up the small ceremony table, grinning with excitement.
Bankotsu glad to have it over with, and have everyone in both eras know she was his bride, nodded wanting the ceremony finished so he could spend time with his wife.
Kera walked back over with the flower in her hair, thanks to Jakotsu. Bankotsu smiled thinking, "I knew she'd bring out the true beauty of the garment." To him she looked just as beautiful as she had in her wedding dress in her time.
He set Banryu aside, and took her hand, leading her to stand in front of the table. Kaede began the ceremony. The entire village had come out to join in the festivities, since their priestess was blessing the marriage. All in attendance watched as the two young lovers were made official.
After the ceremony everyone ate and celebrated the union. After the feast, Bankotsu pulled Kera aside to go to the springs and relax a few moments, not wanting the excitement to upset Kera or the baby.
Kagome and Inuyasha had stood watching the ceremony. Kagome felt ashamed, because her heart harbored jealousy of her sister's happiness- whishing that it had been her and Inuyasha instead.
Inuyasha silently swore to find some time alone with Kagome while they could. Walking over to her, he was upset when Jakotsu walked up to her and said, "Big brother has informed me you're now his family as well. That means I am to protect you, as such I shall accompany you, when he and little sister aren't around."
Kagome was shocked and stood there silent many moments. Once she got over the initial shock she replied, "Uh thanks," before moving towards Inuyasha. By the time Jakotsu and Kagome had finished talking, the newlyweds had returned.
Bankotsu walked up to them saying, tonight we will relax, in the morning we will set to our tasks. Kagome, it's time to start your studies."
Kagome protested, "But… shouldn't you two be spending the day together?" hoping to get out of her studies.
Bankotsu answered happily, "We have the rest of our lives for that." Smirking he added, "Nice try but you're still going to study, I gave your father my word." as he pointed to her bag.
Kera smiled softly, "Come on Kags, let's get started." as she lead her twin away by the hand. Kagome reluctantly grabbed her bag and settled in to study wearing a frown.
Inuyasha scowled and moved into a tree where he could watch them, sulking as they went to work.
Bankotsu smiled and sat where he could keep an eye on the girls. Jakotsu walked over and began talking with his friend. "So what did you think of the wedding?"
Bankotsu answered proudly, "You did real good Jaky, thanks to your input that wedding was just perfect- thanks man." as he clapped the feminine man firmly on the back.
Jakotsu grinned, glad he'd made the most important day for his long time friend perfect. He wiped away a stray tear and hugged his leader, responding, "You're welcome." Adding in a tearful voice, "I'm glad you find your happiness."
Bankotsu hugged him back assuring, "You'll find yours too, Jak, just wait." knowing his friend was still waiting for the right man to come along.
Jakotsu smiled back feeling a little better and said, "Thanks, but as long as I can be a good uncle, and hold the little one, I'll be happy enough.
Bankotsu smiled asking, "You're nearly as excited about being an uncle, as I am a father, huh?"
Jakotsu beamed, "You're right, I am. After all these years, I get to see you have a family- the one you've longed for, since I've known you."
Bankotsu nodded and added in a firm tone, "True, now we just need to get you a family of your own, and kill Naraku and that traitor, and then everything will be perfect."
The girls finished their paperwork. Kera and Bankotsu thanked everyone for all of their hard work, in making sure the wedding was perfect, and everyone settled in for the night.
The next morning:
Just as the sun rose everyone set out together.
A few days later, few hours till sunset:
The last few days of stopping early for Kagome's studies was really getting on Inuyasha's nerves. He wasn't getting any time alone with her since Kera or Bankotsu always had to be around for some reason, one after another. "Bastard probably doesn't want me having any time alone with her, just so him and his bitch can rub their being mated in my damn face!" he thought bitterly.
Bankotsu, feeling Inuyasha's heated glare, smirked. Kera was walking hand in hand with her husband, with her sister on her other side. She shook her head. "I just know these two are getting ready to explode in each other's faces," she thought with a sigh.
Kagome was quiet, keeping her eyes on the path as they walked. For the last few days Bankotsu had enforced her father's wishes on her, and she was becoming more than a little bitter about that. "Who the hell does he think he is?" she thought darkly, glancing now and again back toward Inuyasha, wishing that she could be closer to the hanyou, knowing that this was just as torturous for him as it was for her.
Sango and Miroku walked on each side of Inuyasha. Sango sighed thinking, "Inuyasha is obviously not happy about the way things are going," casting a side glace at her friend.
Walking with his staff, though watching his equally tortured friend, Miroku thought, "Those two hot heads should just get along. It'd make things easier for all of us."
Deciding to stop for the night, Bankotsu stopped and held up a hand signaling for everyone else to do likewise. Everyone stopped and started to set up camp. Bankotsu immediately started barking out orders.
"Jakotsu go hunt. Miroku and Sango go and get the water. Kera… you and I are gathering fire wood."
Kera nodded and began walking around to gather the firewood as Bankotsu walked with her, carrying it. Jakotsu had already left to hunt. Kagome had gathered the rocks and with Inuyasha's help started digging a pit where the fire would go.
Kera and Bankotsu returned, and Bankotsu unceremoniously dropped the wood on the ground, beside the fire pit. Turning to the young miko, he ordered, "Get your books and work on it," seeing the cross dresser had just returned, he added, "While we handle dinner."
Walking over to Jakotsu he asked, "Is this all there was?" Jakotsu nodded as he plopped a small deer on the ground, beside the fire. Lowering his kimono bottom, as the vegetables dropped to land beside the meat.
Kagome stomped her feet in a huffy way, and glared at her twin, asking, "Kera, Make him lay off, please?" silently begging with her eyes.
Bankotsu nodded and ordered, "It'll have to do for tonight, let's get this ready," and knelt down to begin skinning and preparing the deer. Grumbling about it being women's work, Jakotsu also began skinning and preparing the deer as well, setting the hide aside; after clearing it with his esteemed leader.
Bankotsu's gaze swung to his wife's direction, brow raised as he waited to see how she would react.
Kera shook her head saying, "He's doing as he was asked. Come on Kags, we may as well get it over with," as she moved towards her sister.
Kagome pleaded, "Kera, just this once, please? He's your husband, he'd listen to you." Bankotsu scoffed at that inside his head, and continued to watch in stony silence.
Kera irritated at being put on the spot like this, stared at her sister and said in a stern voice, "You're right, I am his wife, and as such I'm not going to undermine his position. Now, let's go Kagome," she finished through gritted teeth.
Bankotsu stood to his feet, and walked over. He looked at Kagome pointing his finger at her and warned in an unrelenting tone, "Don't ever try that again." Kagome glared at him and scowled, huffing she yanked up her bag and followed her sister, albeit angrily.
The twins walked over to sit beside a boulder. Kera still annoyed with her twin's actions, said, "Either start, so we can get it over with, or if you prefer, I could let you do it alone," raising her brow, she asked, "What's it gonna be?"
Grumbling to herself, Kagome snatched her things out of her bag, glaring at her sister. Kera opened the assignment package and began instructing her twin. Kagome gave a resigned huff and set to work.
Inuyasha scowled at the girls, before glaring at Bankotsu. He'd just about had his fill of the bossy teen.
Jakotsu walked over to his comrade's side and said impressed, "I see now, why you chose her." Bankotsu, puffing his chest out with pride, nodded.
While dinner was cooking, Bankotsu in his leader persona watched the girls in satisfaction, as they continued tackling the mountain of assignments.
When the food was ready, he told them to take a break, and eat. Kagome shoved her studies aside, and stomped over to eat. Kera clenching her jaw, accepted her bowl, and took her seat beside her husband.
They ate in a companionable silence. Kagome chomped her food irritated. Inuyasha wore a constant scowl; he was just itching to snap at the smug braid haired teen. Just one more thing was all it was gonna take too.
Once Kera and Kagome had finished eating, Bankotsu ordered, "Now back to work Kagome." The women sighed and proceeded back to their spot by the rock and settled in to finish the last of today's assignments.
Bankotsu giving a satisfied nod, watched in pride as his wife helped her sister. He made a mental note to speak with her alone after they'd finished.
Twenty minutes later, Kera stood up and declared they were done for the day. Bankotsu smiling asked, "How did it go?"
Kera replied, "She's still pissed, but we're coming along fairly well." Bankotsu nodded.
Kera moved toward their belongings and began setting out their bedding. Bankotsu seeing Kagome's sad expression, walked over saying, "Cheer up Kags,"
She snapped, "Go away, I'm mad at you." glaring at him. Bankotsu laughed before saying, "I know you think I'm being a pain, but it's for your own good."
Kagome's fists clenched as she hissed, "Go away." glaring at him furiously.
Bankotsu sighed before smiling and remarking, "Ya know, the way the sun shines off your hair really makes you look quite pretty."
Kera hearing this raised a brow questiongly at her husband, with her hand on her hip. She knew full well he was purposefully goading him, and the idiotic mutt was playing right into his hands.
Inuyasha growled, "Back off corpse! You have yours!" as he clenched his fist. He was getting sick of Bankotsu altogether.
Bankotsu scoffed, "What's the matter mutt? I was just trying to cheer her up." smirking as he told Kagome, "It brings out your eyes too." Kagome blinked.
Kera scowled, grinding her teeth, and began walking over to confront her husband. Inuyasha snarled at the mercenary growling, "I'm warning you bastard!"
Sesshomaru arrived, and stood watching in silence as the two alphas bickered. He'd heard the whole mess, and checking on Kera, saw she was getting pissed.
Bankotsu knowing full well that he was goading Inuyasha into a fight, added, "Jealous mutt?" smirking as he moved back toward the fire, feeling Inu's heated glare upon his back.
Inuyasha thought, "Damn him! He's rubbing it in my face again!" He snarled, "Back off corpse! I'm warning you!" advancing toward the pompous teen.
With a frown upon his face, Bankotsu turned to glare at the hanyou as he demanded, "Or what? What are you going to do?" he was sick and tired of Inuyasha going against him and decided to put the dog in his place.
Inuyasha snapped, "I'll fucking break your neck!" as he moved to approach Bankotsu.
"As if," Bankotsu replied under his breath as he saw Inuyasha advance on him. His breath hitched in fear as Kera moved between them. Before he could warn her Inuyasha swung his fist.
Kera knew what was about to happen wouldn't be good, so she stood up, ordering, "Alright you two, break it up…" ducking just in time to avoid Inuyasha's punch with wide and fearful eyes.
The wind was howling coldly as a darkened blue sky roared with approaching thunder, and driblets of rain started to descend from the sky as Inuyasha approached the young man, with his claws revealed and anger whirring around him as he growled with hatred.
Kera, now red with anger, slipped between her husband and the mutt again, facing Inuyasha and roared, "I said enough!" Inuyasha swung again just as she moved once more, trying to deck Bankotsu. Kera whipped out of the way and glared at the hanyou with a cool anger.
Furious that Inuyasha had nearly slugged his wife, not once… but twice, Bankotsu glowered at Inuyasha with hard eyes. "How dare you try to hit my wife? You're dead half breed!" as he eagerly pushed his wife protectively behind him.
Sesshomaru, seeing this as necessary fight, walked over reached out pulling Kera back out of harm's way. She fought his grip trying to get loose. He sighed in her ear, "Keep out of it."
Kera objected, "But, they're gonna-" knowing damn well they were going to nearly kill each other.
Sesshomaru barked ordering, "Keep back for the pups' sakes and let them handle it." Sighing in defeat and knowing Sesshomaru wouldn't release her, Kera nodded reluctantly and watched as her husband advanced towards Inuyasha with powerful angry strides.
Happy to teach the mutt his place Bankotsu cocked his head with arrogance. "Come on and fight me! Or are you afraid I'll beat you now that I'm truly alive?" His ice cold eyes lit with flames of fury glaring hard at the wretched hanyou.
Inuyasha growled, "You want to fight me, you got it! I'm sick of you and your bitch rubbing being married in my face anyways!" Clenching his fists so tight they were white.
Bankotsu jumped out at him and threw his fist aiming for Inuyasha's head. This was no ordinary battle... He had almost struck his precious wife Kera. No one did that and lived to tell about it, especially while she's pregnant.
Kagome screamed frightened, "Stop it!" Kera sighed resigned as she kept her eyes on her husband.
Jakotsu moved over dragging a fighting Kagome out of harm's way and said, "Let them go. This needs done."
Inuyasha ducked the blow, striking his fist against Bankotsu's and snarled, "I'm sick of you thinking you can just take over everything," letting all his frustrations and anger out with each blow.
"Shut up half demon!" Bankotsu snapped, "What you almost did to Kera is inexcusable!" as he punched Inuyasha full force in the face. Inuyasha's head snapped back and a loud crack was heard. Inuyasha growled before punching towards Bankotsu.
"You under estimated me half-breed!!" Bankotsu scowled as he ran for Inuyasha once again.
Inuyasha grunted, "Keep your bitch out of it and I wouldn't have almost hit her," completely unfazed by her pregnancy.
"Hey, No one calls my Kera a bitch!!!" Bankotsu said as he swung Banryu at Inuyasha.
Inuyasha glared, "Worse than that, she's a bitch who's pupped," he retorted, as he spat venomously onto the ground.
Bankotsu felt a nerve was hit. He growled as he grabbed up Banryu, circling it in a wide arc which caused a gash on Inuyasha's arm "Leave my wife and children out of this!!" he bellowed, with a new wrath burning in his eyes.
Inuyasha was glad to be getting under Bankotsu's skin. He snapped again, barking, "I'm sick of you and your bitch! You think you can just take over like you're in charge? Well I'm ending that right now!" he unsheathed his sword.
"Bring it on hanyou!" Bankotsu spat in disgust as he spun Banryu and approached once again.
Truly frightened now, Kagome yelled out, "Stop it!" fighting against Jakotsu's hold upon her arms.
Jakotsu strengthened his hold on her arms holding her back and covered her mouth saying, "Stay back and let the men handle this."
Bankotsu ran toward Inuyasha grounding out through clenched teeth, "You're on dangerous grounds now mutt!!"
Inuyasha struck his sword against the mercenary's as he growled, "You are not the leader here! I am!"
"No… I am, and I'm gonna show you why right now!!" Bankotsu shouted as he hit Inuyasha once again smashing his fist to Inuyasha's jaw over their connected swords.
"This is my family, so fuck off demon! Oh that's right you're not a demon are you? You're just a pathetic little half demon!" Bankotsu snarled.
Inuyasha growled, "Why you... So what? Take your stupid family and fuck off! It's my pack!"
"A weakling, who was nailed to a tree for fifty years; could never defend anyone, let alone yourself," Bankotsu shouted as he clashed his blade harder and cut Inuyasha's arm once again.
Bankotsu placed his sword on the ground. He held up his fists glaring at Inuyasha and ordered, "This isn't just for my family. This is about teaching you your place mutt! So let's settle this the old fashioned way."
Inuyasha snorted in disdain and placed Tetsusaiga in its sheath, setting it aside as he growled, "Fine by me corpse."
Bankotsu smirked taunting," Make your move half-breed." Inuyasha moved in throwing a punch at Bankotsu's head barely missing as he ducked.
Bankotsu came up and swung at Inuyasha which caused Inuyasha to lose his balance and fall to the ground. "So pitiful, I thought you could fight?"
Bankotsu leaned over to pick him up by the hem of his haori. Inuyasha's head snapped back as Bankotsu's fist connected painfully with his jaw. "This is really pathetic you know that? You need to learn your place! I can't have a half-breed telling me what to do. I don't take orders from anyone!" he hissed angrily.
Inuyasha snapped, "You think you can run this pack, that's what's pathetic," as he kicked free driving his foot into Bankotsu's ribs.
"Most of all a pathetic hanyou..." Bankotsu spat out before grabbing his now bruised ribs and let go of Inuyasha. "Damn you to hell!" He hissed vehemently holding his ribs. "You will regret the day you came into this world."
"How's that for pathetic you filthy corpse?" Inuyasha smirked taunting.
Bankotsu kicked Inuyasha hard in the rib cage as well. "How is that for pathetic you dirty dog?" Bankotsu sassed back.
Inuyasha fell to the ground spitting out blood and snarled, "Damn you…"
Bankotsu smirked as he stood to his feet above the fallen half demon. "I told you not to underestimate me," he sassed smirking. Tackling the mercenary to the ground, Inuyasha punched him in the face and the two began rolling around on the ground.
Bankotsu punched Inuyasha in the face and said," Try that again mutt and you'll be eating dirt, because where you are going... you'll have a lot of it!!"
Kera watched her husband and Inuyasha fighting and sighed. This was what she'd been trying to avoid. Sesshomaru held firmly to Kera's waist and huffed as Bankotsu's fist again connected with Inuyasha's jaw. He knew from the start how this fight would end and enjoyed immensely seeing the human male putting his little brother in his place.
Bankotsu got up from the ground and stomped on Inuyasha's body as hard as he could. "Damn you mutt! Damn your kind!"
Inuyasha spat, "Fucking bastard." before coughing a little.
"You're so pathetic Inuyasha. I never thought that I would see you like this. What is the matter, scared of a human?"
Stalking over to kick Inuyasha in the ribs full force Bankotsu stated, "I warned you. I didn't get to be the leader of a band of killers for nothing. My strength is what kept them in line, and it will do the same for you!" before planting his boot toe into Inuyasha's ribs with a swift kick, sending the dog skidding across the ground.
"Damn half-breed," Bankotsu picked Inuyasha up once again and punched him in the stomach. "Mutt, this is for your own good. Learn your place and maybe you'll get to live."
Kagome now truly frightened for her Hanyou, bit down on Jakotsu's hand over her mouth, drawing blood. Jakotsu releasing her shrieked, "You bitch! You bit me!" as he shook his hand out.
Kagome hissed and tried to wriggle her way free. Sango pulled Kagome free and held her back saying sternly, "We knew this was coming." Kagome paused only long enough to stare at her friend.
Bankotsu turned and shouted ordering, "Jakotsu, keep a hold of her!!" Before he grabbed Inuyasha by the front and threw him as far as he could. Inuyasha's body collided with a solidly with a tree.
Kagome breaking free ran over to Inuyasha and cried, "Inuyasha, are you alright? Here let me help you." leaning over to help him to his feet.
Inuyasha slapped her hand away and growled, "Get the hell away. I don't need your help," as he shoved her back enough to get his point across.
Hurt crossed Kagome's face as her temper rose and she bit out, "Stubborn Inuyasha, why won't you let me help you?" before rounding on her heel and storming off towards Sango.
Bankotsu taunted, "Stupid dog, you can't even fight without your bitch now?" as he watched their interaction.
Taking advantage of the momentary reprieve, Inuyasha caught his breath before he snarled, and kicked out, sweeping Bankotsu's legs out from under him as he approached.
Bankotsu collapsed to the ground. Inuyasha jumped on top of his rival and punched his face. He growled in frustration as he blocked each one of Inuyasha's attacks. He clenched his fists and punched Inuyasha in the jaw again.
Inuyasha's head snapped back from the force of the blow. Staggering to his feet Inuyasha growled, "Fuck you corpse!"
Bankotsu smirked as he got up and knocked Inuyasha to the ground. He picked up Inuyasha, "I'll tell you once more… learn you place. I am the leader, so you'd better respect me, otherwise- you'll be in hell when I get finished with you."
Inuyasha didn't know when to quit, and staggered to his feet again. Before things could go any further Kagome screamed, "Sit boy!" Inuyasha slammed into the ground groaning as he passed out.
Bankotsu looking down, was shocked to see that Inuyasha was in the ground. Spitting on the prone form, Bankotsu smirked, "Serves you right..." as he turned his attention back to his wife.
Sesshomaru, seeing the fight was over, released Kera who promptly ran over to her husband.
Bankotsu walked over to Kera and demanded irate," What the hell were you thinking?" flames of anger lighting his eyes.
Kagome ran over to Inuyasha crying. She shook her head saying, "Sango, bring me my bag so I can tend to Inuyasha's wounds, please?"
Bankotsu snapped angrily, "You put yourself and the babies in grave danger," as he stared stonily at his wife.
Kera scowled, "I was trying to avoid this!" as she pointed from him to Inuyasha.
Bankotsu argued," You almost got killed! I could have handled him! You should not have interfered!" staring her down.
Deciding it was time to lay down the law to his wife as well, he ordered in a no-nonsense tone, "You are to be with me or Jakotsu at all times, from now until after the baby is born," crossing his arms over his massive chest staring at her angrily.
Kera snapped, "It wouldn't have happened if you hadn't been flirting with my sister!" as he words sunk in she gaped. "You can't be serious!"
Bankotsu sending an icy glare at his out of line wife added, "Furthermore... that asshole Renkotsu is still running around somewhere. Do I have to remind you that he's dangerous and could kill you at any moment? "
Kera growled, "I can handle myself, need I remind you?!" glaring defiantly at her husband.
"Anymore of this shit out of you Kera and I'll send your ass home until the babies are born! I only allowed you to come here because of Dorian. I can and will kill Dorian myself and instruct your father to keep you home- period! So do not push me any further!" he warned eyes a blazing with fury.
Kera shocked, gaped openly at her husband and clenching her jaw stomped her foot, getting in his face and warned, "Don't go getting too full of yourself, asshole! Just because I'm pregnant doesn't mean I can't defend myself. " she spat glaring at him unafraid.
Bankotsu just as pissed warned, "I'll send you home right now Kera! Don't push me!"
Kera sassed back, "You do and I'll just go somewhere else, Like to Sesshomaru's, or some other place here in the Feudal Era and work on my powers some more," a fierce determination in her eyes.
Bankotsu hissed, "You'll harm the children if you work on your damn powers!"
Kera barked, "You are not leaving me behind, if you do, I'll follow you without your consent!" Bankotsu glared hard at his obstinate wife. Kera pointed out, "You need me, because I'm the only one who can help my sister with her home work and you know damn well she has to be around to collect the jewel shards!"
Bankotsu not happy about it, but knowing she was right, sighed and offered, "I'll tell you what, You stay with the group and do not go off alone for any reason, and I'll let you stay in this time period, with us." he smirked at her temper, before glaring at her and added dead seriously, "And you'd better not place our children in danger anymore! Do you hear me?"
Kera glad he was trying to compromise, also offered adding defiantly, "Unless the children or I are in direct danger, I'll try to stay out of the fights." Bankotsu knowing it was the best he'd get from her on this nodded. Kera glared at him mumbling, "Whatever, I'm going for a walk," getting up to storm off.
Sesshomaru stopped her growling, "Listen to your husband Kera," staring into her eyes.
Bankotsu growled and he sat down and began polishing Banryu. "Damn woman… she's too damn stubborn for her own good," he grumbled glaring at his wife.
Kera unable to believe what was happening argued, "But-"
Sesshomaru pointed out coolly, "He's your husband and only looking out for you and the pups' best interests."
Kera sighed and looking at her stomach whispered with tears in her eyes, "I'd never knowingly endanger my children," as she placed a hand on her stomach.
Bankotsu looked at Kera and walked over to her saying in a softer tone, "Kera…"
Kera holding back her tears sighed, "Get away from me."
Knowing she needed a few minutes to herself, he ordered, "Jakotsu, you will accompany Kera on her walk. Stay by her side at all times!"
"But," Jakotsu whined.
Bankotsu snapped, "Do it Jakotsu, and if anything happens to her, you'll answer to me!!"
Jakotsu grumbled and said, "Come on Kera." Kera sighed needing to escape everyone and nodded following beside her brother in law.
Kagome tended Inuyasha's wounds, waking him up from the sting of the antiseptic, and scowled. After finishing his wounds, she picked up her bow and arrows, and stormed off into the woods. Inuyasha recognizing her intent, scowled at the corpse and stormed after Kagome, deciding it was time for them to talk.
Sango and Miroku were used to Kagome storming off after a fight with Inuyasha, and thought nothing of it. Bankotsu was polishing his Banryu and lost in thoughts of his feisty wife, so he failed to notice them leaving, behind his back.
A/N Okay from here on out, I'm doing this story alone, so any mistakes are mine alone. Anyways, there's twenty-six, hope you enjoyed it, and again I'm so sorry for the long wait!