Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha! I do own Koneko AKA Kitty, and the plot, and story line... There. I said it. (sighs)
"Talking"
"Thinking"
Scene change:
Chapter 2:
At the camp...
She stormed over to start the pot of water and herbs boiling. Jakotsu ran over and greeted happily, "Hello little sister. Welcome back."
Kitty smiled at him saying softly, "Hey Jakotsu, thanks. Are you ready to learn a little more?" Jakotsu grinned and nodded eagerly. Kitty laughed and said, "Okay, come on then." They walked off arm in arm as Kitty went to get the parchment she was using to teach Jakotsu to read and write with. They walked over to and sat together under a tree and stayed there teaching and learning for the next hour and a half. Bankotsu had after putting the katanas away, left off on patrol again.
Renkotsu walked over to Kitty and Jakotsu looked down at them and sneered, "I don't know why you even bother. He is never gonna get it right." he thought, "Obviously he's too stupid to get it." Staring down at them.
Kitty glaring up at Renkotsu, responded angrily, "Shut up Renkotsu! Just because he is having a little more trouble than the others, doesn't mean he won't get it. In fact he is coming along just fine so, back off!" Renkotsu shook his head and rolled his eyes. She glared at him until he finally left. She looked at Jakotsu and said fiercely, "Ignore that stupid jerk! You are doing great already, Jakotsu. You have memorized the entire alphabet already. Once we get the next step completed, we can start reading the words."
Jakotsu smiled at her and said seriously, "Thank you little sister. You are so nice. I'm grateful for your patience."
Kitty smiled at him and replied happily, "You are so eager to learn, I can't help but want to teach you."They smiled at each other and continued the lessons, until Suikotsu returned with some skinned rabbits.
Kitty stood up and walked over and put a little more water and the rabbits in the pot. She returned to the tree and gathered the parchments and ink, and then put them away. After dinner Bankotsu, Jakotsu, and Suikotsu all left off to do their own things, leaving only Kitty and Renkotsu at the camp.
Kitty angrily stormed over to and confronted Renkotsu, "You should be a little more supportive of Jakotsu, instead of insulting him. At least he is trying to learn and he is doing just fine. I am warning you- back the hell off of him Renkotsu, or else I am gonna have to kick your ass! Got it?" while glaring into his eyes.
Renkotsu smirked saying snidely, "You really think you can take me on, eh, girl? Don't make me laugh. The only reason you are even here is to help big brother find the jewel shards, and to warm his bed at night." while glaring into her eyes.
Kitty narrowed her eyes and her face became angry as she slapped the hell out of Renkotsu. She fumed, "You stupid ass hole! Bankotsu is a gentleman and has more manners then you will ever have! You may be the smart one but you are also the biggest jerk!" while glaring icily into his eyes.
Renkotsu backhanded her, saying angrily, "The only reason he would keep you here is to screw you. So don't deny it, bitch!" while glaring at her.
Kitty heaving with outrage quickly got up and round house kicked him in the solar plexus, sending him flying across the dirt. She walked over to him got down on one knee, holding her katana against his neck. Glaring at him she warned in a deadly serious biting tone, "Don't you ever hit me again you stupid jackass. And keep your vulgar comments to yourself while you're at it. Or next time… I won't be so lenient with you." She stood up, sheathed her sword, and stormed away. Not even realizing as she passed Jakotsu on the way to a tree just on the out skirts of the camp.
Suikotsu appeared as she was angrily walking off. Suikotsu looked at Renkotsu and asked dryly, "Man, Renkotsu, what did you do this time?" He shook his head.
Jakotsu appeared and demanded, "What happened? I just saw little sister, and I can tell she is pissed off again." getting right up into Renkotsu's face.
Suikotsu looked at him and replied evenly, "Renkotsu was still on the ground and she was walking off when I came up."
Jakotsu glared at Renkotsu and angrily demanded, "What did you do this time, you jerk?" he knew damn well Renkotsu pissed her off as this was a fairly common occurrence.
Bankotsu saw this as he walked up and questioned, "Alright, What's going on? What do you mean what did he do this time, Jakotsu?" He looked over at Renkotsu and demanded, "Did you piss off Koneko again?"
Jakotsu stared at his leader and stated upset, "She was obviously angry when I passed her just a little bit ago." as he shook his head.
Suikotsu stared at his leader adding evenly, "Renkotsu was just getting up off the ground, and little sister was walking away angry when I showed up."
Bankotsu threw his head back, and laughed. The girl had a temper for sure. He looked at Renkotsu scolding, "Seriously Renkotsu, when are you gonna learn not to piss her off? She is one bad ass woman when she gets angry." Then he sighed heavily and asked, "So, what did you do this time, anyway?" Renkotsu stood up and just grunted walking away. Bankotsu shook his head and went to search for Koneko.
With Bankotsu and Koneko:
He found her out under a tree, staring at the stars. He walked up saying evenly, "I came back to camp and found out you and Renkotsu had gotten into it again." Looking directly at her with his arms crossed in front of his chest, he inquired, "Care to tell me what happened?" waiting with his eyes glued to her, expecting an answer.
She sighed heavily but faced him and replied angrily, "He hit me and said the only reason you allow me to stay, is because we are screwing each other." Bankotsu's eyes widened.
She continued, "Needless to say, I kicked his sorry ass and warned him never to hit me again! As well as to keep his vulgarness to his pathetic self," Then she turned back to watching the stars which were twinkling and the moonlight also illuminated the earth below.
Bankotsu sighed heavily, walking over to her. Dropping down on one knee he placed his finger under her chin and forced her to look at him so he could see her face. He was very angry that Renkotsu dared to hit Koneko to begin with. His eyes narrowed angrily and his jaw clenched, as he saw the bruised and swollen skin across her cheek where Renkotsu had stuck her earlier. Kitty jerked her chin free. He announced determinedly, "I will speak with him about this, rest assured."
Kitty looked into his eyes snapping angrily, "Don't! It will only make him think that even more- I can handle that stupid jackass myself," determination in her own eyes. Honestly he couldn't care less what that ass thought.
Bankotsu sighed heavily holding her gaze and exclaimed angrily, "Fine! But if he strikes you again, I will kick his ass myself! None of my brothers will strike a woman while I am around, especially not you!" He wasn't letting this slide by any means. She was their sister and by damned they were going to treat her as such! Mind made up to handle things with Renkotsu after she went to bed, he allowed her to drop the subject- for now.
Bankotsu sighed heavily holding her gaze and exclaimed angrily, "Fine! But if he strikes you again, I will kick his ass myself! None of my brothers will strike a woman while I am around, especially not you!" He wasn't letting this slide by any means. She was their sister and by damned they were going to treat her as such! Mind made up to handle things with Renkotsu after she went to bed, he allowed her to drop the subject- for now.
After a while...
Bankotsu angrily stormed over to and confronted Renkotsu warning, "Renkotsu, You are damn lucky it was Koneko who kicked your sorry ass, instead of me! If you ever strike any woman again- I will personally kick your ass myself." Balling up his fists he demanded, "Understood?" while staring him dead in the eye he took an intimidating step toward his second in command.
Renkotsu's eyes widened and he nodded vigorously and stuttered, "Y...Yes big brother." Renkotsu scowled and his next remark was a snide one. "So, the bitch went and whined to you about it, huh?"
Bankotsu narrowed his stormy blue eyes, grabbing Renkotsu by the throat, and lifted him off his feet. He got right in his face, staring him directly in the eye, and snapped angrily, "She didn't have to tell me. I could see it clear as day. You know damn well that I don't tolerate that ever! I strongly suggest you don't do it again!" letting his grip tighten to the point Renkotsu was gasping for air, he shook him a bit demanding, "Are we clear?" Renkotsu nodded vigorously.
Bankotsu stated, "Good!" and dropped him harshly on the ground. Glaring at all of his men in turn, Bankotsu ground through clenched teeth, "She is your little sister now, so you had damn well better make sure to remember it and treat her as such." Each of the men nodded. Bankotsu huffed and sat down glaring.
After a while Renkotsu, Suikotsu and Jakotsu turned in for the night. Twenty minutes later Bankotsu decided to retire as well. He walked into his room, took off his shirt and climbed into bed. Even though Kitty was fast asleep, he sighed and moving his arms around her curled his body protectively around her and slumbered.
A few weeks later just after sunrise:
Bankotsu and Kitty woke as soon as the sun came up. She was nestled into his chest and his arms were around her waist. They separated getting out of bed. He put on his shirt and they began the day. Jakotsu caught plenty of fish for everyone to eat and handed them to Kitty. She started a fire and set the fish up to smoke over it, sprinkling some crushed herbs over the fish as well. When it had finished cooking, everyone ate.
After breakfast:
Bankotsu looked at everyone and announced, "Renkotsu, you are going on patrol with me this morning. The rest of you stay here until we return. Let's go, Renkotsu." Bankotsu spun on his heel and started walking away. Renkotsu stood up and reluctantly followed him.
Kitty looked at Jakotsu and suggested, "Why don't we continue your practices?" Jakotsu nodded eagerly smiling at her. Kitty smiled and went to retrieve the parchment and ink. She returned and sat beneath a tree. Jakotsu sat beside her, and they began sounding out the letters.
Suikotsu looked at them saying, "I will be reassessing my herbs if you need me, just holler." as he stood up.
Kitty and Jakotsu nodded then went back to the lesson at hand. Suikotsu smiling walked off into his room, to reassess his herbs and make a list.
With Bankotsu and Renkotsu:
They were patrolling the surrounding areas. Renkotsu plagued by the same question for almost a week straight queried, "Big brother, why do you always defend that wench?"
Bankotsu looked at him and replied, "She is your little sister, show her some respect! I defend her, the same as I do every one of you." Renkotsu was silent. Bankotsu looked into his eyes and voiced the question that had been nagging his own mind, "Why do you seem to have such a grudge against her?"
Renkotsu held his gaze and responded, "I don't. It just seems as if you accepted her too fast, that's all." No way was he answering that one, he'd rather avoid it.
Bankotsu embedded Banryu in the ground, nonchalantly leaned his back against it with his arms crossed casually in front of his chest, and stared into his eyes as he informed Renkotsu seriously, "She has proven her worth the same as all of you. I have tested her just like everyone else. If I didn't think she was worthy of joining us I wouldn't have allowed it."
Renkotsu looked down and grumbled, "Seems to me more like you have an ulterior motive."
Bankotsu stood up quickly walking over to him angrily, stared him dead in the eye and demanded, "What exactly are you implying, Renkotsu?" Renkotsu again skirting the issue shrugged. Bankotsu roared, "Are you questioning my decisions, Renkotsu?"
Renkotsu's eyes widened fearfully, and he stuttered, "N...no, of course not." as he stared into his eyes.
Bankotsu crossed his arms in front of his chest, staring him dead in the eye, and informed Renkotsu dead seriously, "She had to prove herself, the same as everyone else. Do not ever think you will get away with questioning my decisions! I am the leader of this group, and I will not stand for it!"
Renkotsu bowed his head shamefully and said, "Forgive my foolishness, big brother."
Bankotsu warned, "This one time, I shall. But if you ever try it again, I will remind you of exactly why I am the leader." Renkotsu nodded. Bankotsu sighed heavily, relaxing his stance and stated, "I know we are getting restless, and I am aware of the fact that Naraku is using us. However, we must remember that without these damn shards, we would be dead again."
Renkotsu nodded and stared into his eyes saying again, "Forgive my foolishness, big brother." he continued, "You are our leader. I'm sorry I forgot my place." before bowing his head again.
Bankotsu nodded to him and commanded, "Let's head back."Bankotsu retrieved his Banryu hefting it over his shoulder and they set off back towards the camp.
Back at the camp:
Bankotsu and Renkotsu returned, seeing Kitty and Jakotsu sitting together under the tree. Kitty was smiling as she encouraging her student. "That's great, Jakotsu. You are getting better every day."
Jakotsu smiled at his little sister saying, "Thanks, little sister."
Bankotsu walked over, facing Kitty, and ordered, "Koneko, grab your sword and come with me."
Kitty nodded as she stood up, gathering the supplies. She put them away, grabbed her sword, and met Bankotsu outside. He started off towards the field and she obediently followed close behind.
In the field:
Bankotsu embedded Banryu into the ground and drew his katana. Kitty drew her katana and went into a fighting stance. Bankotsu licked his lips excitedly as he began circling her with his eyes firmly on her. Kitty kept a very close eye on Bankotsu, watching for any sign of what he was going to do next. Bankotsu continued to circle her for a few minutes, before making his move.
At the same instant they lashed out at each other, beginning to dance the choreography of deadly proportions. Their swords clashed repeatedly as they parried and slashed at each other, dodging swings in an equal manner. With a few more slashes and a graceful flip, Kitty was two meters away from the whirling Bankotsu.
He stopped and stared at Kitty, who had a quirky smile on her face. "So, you think a pretty flip will beat me? You're highly mistaken." Bankotsu mocked, lunging at Kitty. She parried, and ran up Bankotsu's left leg and shoulder, flipping over him and giving him a good slap upside the head in the process before cart-wheeling around the aggravated Bankotsu. Kitty stood upright and stared at him, a grin on her face and her eyes laughing.
Bankotsu's eyebrow twitched as he stared at her. They clashed blades again, neither seeming to gain the upper hand. Bankotsu was focusing on straight power, attempting to drive her back. Kitty's tactic was more focused on her fluid movements, graceful, and utterly perfect skill. They continued to attack each other in a blazing flurry, until both were panting rapidly and sword less.
They flipped away from each other. She gave him a wink, and twirled off into the air, her form perfect. As soon as she landed, Kitty went into a half crouching fighting position, waiting for Bankotsu to strike. He gave a nod, and they flew forward for the attack. Bankotsu attempted a flurry of flying kicks, which Kitty countered with a roll under him. They punched at each other, their fists connecting.
Bankotsu swirled around the fist and went for Kitty's neck with an open palm. She ducked under just in time, jabbing Bankotsu in the ribs with a claw hand. Kitty then spun on the ground, kicking out his ankles. He simply landed on his hands, and flipped back onto his feet, punching down at the ground where Kitty was crouched.
She leaped out of the way a fraction of a second before Bankotsu's fist connected with the ground, causing the earth to split. In mid air, she drop kicked him in the back of the skull, then cart-wheeled away, and looked at him. He began running around her in a circle. She kicked out as he passed, and hit him flat in the chest.
Recovering quickly, He spun on the ground, kicking the back of Kitty's knees, sending her to the ground. He grabbed her foot, chucking her high into the air. Kitty maneuvered so she could land gracefully on her feet after she landed. Kitty and Bankotsu back flipped to pick up their swords and clashed blades again. She spun around, attacking him from the back, only to be blocked; she swept his legs and knocked him onto his back. He jumped back up and they clashed blades again.
Kitty managed to barely knick his cheek, smirked, and taunted, "Take that!" Bankotsu grinned and they both disarmed one another again at the same time. Bankotsu swept Kitty's legs out from under her, he grabbed his sword, held it to her throat, grinning and informed her smugly, "Looks like this match goes to me, babe."
She stared up at him and smiled, replying, "Yeah, I guess it does." He removed his sword and held out a hand to help her up. She placed her hand in his he pulled her up and into his arms. He smirked announcing, "Now for my prize."
Before she could ask what he meant, he smashed his lips on hers and stroked his tongue along her lips. She immediately opened to him and he wasted no time in claiming her mouth in a fierce kiss. Their tongues began a battle for dominance.
His hand that was holding the katana opened and dropped it and both arms went around her waist pulling her flush against him as he deepened the kiss. Her arms at the same moment went to and encircled his neck as she moaned leaning even more into the kiss. After a minute one of his hands began sliding up to her hair and pressed her head making her lean even more into the kiss.
After that, his hand fisted in her hair and he pulled back breaking the kiss to begin feathering kisses down her neck, while the other hand was planted firmly on her backside squeezing one perfectly round, muscular cheek. She moaned louder and her hands went to his wide strong shoulders. His other hand slipped down to squeeze the other cheek. She gasped loudly in shock.
He smirked and pulled away from her neck, squeezed her butt with his hands again, then let her go and exclaimed smugly, "Damn woman. You are lethal!" He smirked in satisfaction at her confused look as she blinked a few times trying to figure out what had just happened; after a minute she pulled herself together. He said, "We should head back to camp."
Kitty stared at him in confusion, and nodded, collecting her weapon. He collected his and together they walked back to camp in silence. He was smirking and she was still trying to figure out what had gotten into them, and why he had done that. Just outside the camp she managed to pull herself together again.
Back at camp...
She entered the camp, put her weapon away and went to start a fire. Bankotsu entered the camp and commanded, "Jakotsu, you and Suikotsu have hunting duty today. Go now." Jakotsu and Suikotsu nodded and left to hunt.
Kitty went to collect water and lugged it back to the camp. Bankotsu put his Banryu away, then walked outside and sat with his back against a tree and his hands crossed behind his head and began whistling while he thought about the encounter he and Kitty had after their sparring match.
Bankotsu sat there smugly thinking "Man, she sure as hell knows how to kiss. I must be a better kisser then I thought, seeing as she picked it up that fast!" A satisfied smirk began to spread across his face. "I am eagerly looking forward, to our next little match." He began whistling happily.
Renkotsu came out of his room and sat beside the fire when he noticed Bankotsu leaning against a tree, whistling. He raised a brow and queried, "What has you so happy, eh, big brother?"
Bankotsu stopped whistling, sat up straight and questioned, looking sheepish, "What was that? Sorry, Renkotsu, I didn't quite catch it."
Renkotsu shook his head mumbling, "Nothing."
Bankotsu shrugged and stood up, heading over to Kitty as he had seen her lugging the water back. He carried the water back to the camp. Kitty walked along side him, looking away from him. She said, "Thanks."
Bankotsu nodded as he set the water beside the fire, making sure to show off his muscles. He was getting ready to say something when Jakotsu and Suikotsu returned dropping two big boars at Bankotsu and Kitty's feet. Kitty set a rather large pot up over the fire.
Jakotsu bent down and whipped out his sword and cut up the meat. Kitty smiled at him and said: "Thanks." Jakotsu nodded to her and stood up then walked off.
Kitty gathered the meat washed it and added it to the pot along with water and herbs. She let it cook. They all sat around the fire talking while they waited for this to happen. After a while Kitty served up the stew to everyone. They ate, and Kitty did the dishes in the river. After wards Kitty announced she was going to soak at the springs. She took her soak and then returned to camp.
The others went to bed, leaving only Kitty and Bankotsu still awake. They sat there in silence for a while. Bankotsu sighed heavily and Kitty looked at him and queried, "What's on your mind?"
Bankotsu just stared at her for a minute debating whether or not to tell her. Kitty looked into his eyes saying, "It's obvious something is bothering you. Want to talk about it?"
Bankotsu thought it over a while longer. Kitty was about to give up and go to bed when Bankotsu stated evenly, "I know Renkotsu is up to something. I just haven't figured out what yet."
Kitty listened and replied, "Who knows?"
Bankotsu sighed heavily and confessed, "It's nothing new, Renkotsu being the smartest and all. He's always planning something. I just hope he doesn't force me to call him out. I don't want to lose any more of my brothers." He finished fiercely.
Kitty nodding informed him softly, "I know what you mean. I don't want to have to lose any one again either."
Bankotsu looked at her and explained, "A while back we lost three of our brothers."
Kitty's eyes softened and she said sadly, "I'm sorry that happened."
He nodded, sighing heavily and confessed, "I feel like I failed them again. As you know the seven of us died once before. We were beheaded after we were ambushed by the Daimyo who had hired us." Taking a deep breath he continued, "After we were resurrected three of us were killed again. I am afraid I will end up failing them again." He lowered his eyes looking away.
Kitty said dead seriously, "I may not have been around you guys long, but I do know for a fact you are a damn good leader. Between you and me, I've seen my fair share of leaders and you are by far the best damn leader I have ever seen. That includes both of the villages I called home."
Kitty stood, walking directly in front of him and stared him straight in the eye as she continued, "You are fair and even ask our opinions, and even go as far as to encourage us to give them. You are strong and fiercely protective of all of us. You don't hesitate to take command when needed, or to settle the disputes without having to resort to coming to blows."
She placed a comforting hand on his shoulder and said, "Your men wouldn't still be following you, if they thought you weren't still a good leader." She hugged him comfortingly and he hugged her to him. Kitty said softly, yet firmly, "Bankotsu, you are a good man, and a great leader!"
Bankotsu looked shocked, his arms tightened around her slightly as he tensed up then began to relax. He breathed, "Th... thank you."
Kitty stepped back after another minute, looked at him, smiled and informed, "Everyone makes mistakes we are, after all only human. But those mistakes help us better ourselves and make us wiser."
He stared into her eyes questioning, "Why does it seem so easy to talk to you? Normally, I only open up like this to Jakotsu."
Kitty shrugged dropping her hand as she replied softly, "Maybe it's because I have already opened up to you, and you know what I have been through in the past..."
She looked away sadly swallowed, and continued, "Or maybe it's because every now and then we all need to lean on someone, even the leaders. Either way I am just glad you are willing to talk to me. It means you are beginning to trust me. That means a lot to me."
Bankotsu reached out, hooking his finger under her chin and forced her to look at him. She looked directly into his gaze. He said softly, "You are one incredible woman, ya know? I've never in all my lives met a woman as caring, kind, and strong as you."
Kitty surprised said softly, "Thank you."
He moved his hand to cup her cheek and breathed softly, "So beautiful..." he leaned in to feather his lips across hers. Kitty laid her hand over his, pressing her lips to his briefly, then stepped back. They let their hands drop staring into each other's eyes for a long time.
Kitty said fiercely, "You are a good leader, Bankotsu! Don't ever doubt that!"
He smiled saying, "Thanks." She smiled nodding.
She said, "I am going to turn in for the night. "Good night, Bankotsu."
He replied, "Good night, Catherine." She walked off towards his room and he watched her walk away until she disappeared. He sat down and stared into the sky thinking for a while. She went to bed and laid there pondering over the day's events, let out a heavy sigh and went to sleep.
He continued staring at the stars and thinking for a while. "What has gotten into me lately?'
He thought over everything Kitty had said. Everything that they had discussed and everything she had told him about her past, as well as what he and his brothers had been through. "I've never met a woman quite like her before. She is so kind hearted, and understanding. Hell no one else would be as patient with Jakotsu and his lessons as she is. She is strong and fiercely independent. I wonder..."
Sighing heavily he shook his head switching his thoughts to their sparring match and mostly to the kiss afterwards.
"Damn that woman sure can kiss. If I'm not careful she is going to become a fire in my blood. She is becoming quite an addiction to me. I had better watch myself..."
He sighed heavily and shook his head trying to clear it. Deciding to turn in for the night he stood up and walked towards his room.
Bankotsu entered the room and just stood there in the door way watching her sleep for a short while. Finally he entered the room and took off everything but his pants and climbed into bed, curling around her. He sighed heavily and fell asleep.
Over the next six months...
Day in and day out the routine pretty much remained the same. Kitty woke up made breakfast, sparred with Bankotsu, and of course he stole kisses each time they sparred but pulled back before they went too far. After wards they would return to camp and Bankotsu would patrol the area, while two of the others hunted. Kitty made time to sit with Jakotsu and continue his lessons daily.
Each evening Kitty and Renkotsu would get into verbal matches and Bankotsu and the others would watch enjoying the show, but it was always stopped before it got too far out of hand. Kitty would also go collecting herbs and stuff with Suikotsu and they would talk.
After dinner Kitty would go bathe in the springs, wash her hair, and then return to sit and talk with Bankotsu for a while. Then she would go to bed. Bankotsu would sit up a while after everyone went to sleep and enjoy the night a bit, and then crawl into bed and curl up around Kitty.
Then one day...
After Bankotsu and Kitty had sparred for hours on end again and harder than ever before, Bankotsu had also stolen yet another series of kisses.
Bankotsu was out on patrol around the area. Jakotsu was at the hot springs soaking and bathing.
Suikotsu was out collecting herbs around the surrounding areas. Kitty and Renkotsu were back at camp alone again.
Renkotsu walked up, cornered Kitty, got right into her face staring into her eyes and demanded, "Why haven't you informed big brother about my extra shards?"
Kitty looked him dead in the eye and responded, "It is not my place to tell him, It is yours! I won't tell him. But I suggest you do and soon. If he asks me about it, then I will have no choice but to tell him. Until then I will say nothing. But don't wait too long, because he does already suspect something."
Renkotsu glared at her and declared, deadly serious, "If you say ANYTHING I will kill you!"
Kitty retorted dryly, "Nice family values there, Renkotsu. Threatening to kill one of your own?" Renkotsu reached into his pants and pulled out then held a dagger to her throat. She quickly knocked him away and disposed of his dagger. She glared into his eyes and said, "I have told you already, and I won't say it again! And don't you EVER threaten me again! Got it, baldy?"
Then she roundhouse kicked him away hitting him in the chest and sent him flying across the dirt. She turned on her heel and stormed off towards the hut.
Jakotsu ran up to her eyes concerned and asked, "What happened to him?" and pointed at Renkotsu.
Kitty held his gaze and answered evenly, "Just being an ass again. So I had to teach him some manners." Jakotsu nodded.
He approached Renkotsu and scolded him, "Renkotsu, when are you gonna learn not to piss off little sister?"
Renkotsu glared at Kitty and she glared back at him.
Bankotsu walked up, and saw the two of them, glaring at each other again. He asked curiously, "What happened here?"
Jakotsu faced his leader and replied happily, "Renkotsu was being an ass to little sister again, so she got mad and kicked his ass."
Bankotsu sighed heavily looked directly at Renkotsu and questioned seriously, "Renkotsu, when will you ever learn?" Then he tossed the deer down and informed, "Koneko, this is for dinner tonight." Kitty nodded at him.
Jakotsu pulled out his sword and shredded the meat. Kitty looked at Jakotsu and said, shocked, "Thank you, Jakotsu." Jakotsu smiled at her and nodded.
Kitty gathered up the meat, rinsed it off and put it into the pot with some herbs to boil. After everyone ate, Kitty decided to take a soak and bathe at the hot springs. She also decided to wash her hair as well. She walked into her room and collected her new kimono outfit and walked outside then off to the hot springs.
At the hot springs...
Kitty slowly undressed setting her stuff aside safely on shore, and gently lowered herself into the hot spring sighing. She closed her eyes and leaned against the big rock behind her. She let the hot springs work their magic as they began to loosen her sore, tight, and achy muscles. The battle with Bankotsu today had been the toughest yet, and much harder then she had expected. She hadn't had a work out quite like that in almost eight years.
She sighed, enjoying the hot water. After about fifteen minutes, she reached up to her hair, letting it fall in cascades down her back as she began to wash it thoroughly.
Unknown to the woman in the spring she was not alone. Bankotsu had after finding her gone decided to come to the spring for a soak himself. Stopping and holding his breath he watched as she lowered her silky locks. Her back was to him, giving him an impressive view of her sleek toned back. He noted it was musculature and pretty tight, with her muscles moving smoothly under her tanned skin. She even had a couple of scars from previous battles like any true warrior would.
Unlike most men, Bankotsu considered scars on women sexy. He liked to think of them as a badge of courage, telling beyond a doubt that the person was a true fighter, which is why he wore his own scars few as they were with pride. Releasing his breath slowly he smirked and quietly shed his own clothes thinking, "I'd sure rather have her doing that somewhere else." as he watched her hands work a dirty spot in her hair. Stealthily he slipped into the water gliding effortlessly to stand only a few feet from her.
Kitty was concentrating on washing her hair so hard that she failed to notice when Bankotsu approached the springs and undressed slipping quietly into the springs. Gliding towards the unsuspecting girl, Bankotsu forgot to pay attention to his footing and his toe stubbed on a rock he involuntarily hissed in pain.
She was dealing with a particularly filthy area of her waist length hair, hearing the hiss Kitty realized she was no longer alone. She immediately twirled around and submerged herself into the water just enough to try to conceal her generous chest. She snapped her gaze to his and yelled, "What the hell? You pervert, can't a girl even bathe in peace?" with fire dancing in her caramel eyes.
Bankotsu looking directly at her chuckled amused. He drawled, "I'd wondered where you had disappeared to after dinner." His gaze lowered to her partially concealed chest as he thought, "She's modest, maybe even shy? I wouldn't have expected that."
Kitty glaring at him demanded seriously, "Leave! Just give me twenty minutes to finish my bath then you can soak."
Bankotsu shaking his head and raising his gaze to her creamy throat, then to her full kissable lips, and finally to her enticing eyes said seriously, "No! Now come over here and I will help with your hair."
Kitty glared at him responding, "No thanks. Now leave. I was here first you pervert." She was still trying in vain to cover her chest from his wandering gaze.
Bankotsu sighed heavily looking her dead in the eye and said, "Look, our little match worked us both over pretty good. So sit down and relax. I'm not leaving until after my muscles have relaxed some and eased the pain. So shut up and get over here so I can wash your hair for you."
Kitty glaring at him scoffed, "No way! Here I thought I could trust you," making the last part, sound like an accusation.
Bankotsu scowling at her insinuation snapped seriously, "You can trust me. I haven't done anything to you yet, now have I?" mentioning, "And we both know that I've had plenty of opportunities. Besides you're not much to look at anyway." He finished callously.
Kitty huffed demanding, "If I'm 'not much to look at' then just what the hell, are you doing in my bath? And why are you kissing me all the time, huh?"
Bankotsu growled standing up and reached over snagging her arm. He pulled her over to him, sat her down in front of him, and warned sternly, "Behave, or else I'll end up yanking your hair." Without waiting for her response he started gently washing her hair. Kitty sitting there shocked began to relax as his strong fingers ran through her hair. Twenty minutes later he announced satisfied, "Finished."
Kitty turning around looked at him and replied softly, "Thank you. Now if you will just turn around, I will dress and leave." She moved to stand up and get out.
Bankotsu smirked ordering, "No, you don't." Reaching out he grabbed her elbow and pulled her back over to him. He wasn't about to let her leave without cleaning his hair.
She glared at him demanding, "What the hell do you think you're doing?"
He looked at her replying seriously, "Fair is fair. I washed your hair, now you have to wash mine." staring into her eyes.
Kitty looked dumbfounded and exclaimed in a shocked tone, "You're joking, right?" while staring into his captivating blue eyes.
Bankotsu grinned, reaching up to release his braid, and answered seriously, "No! You know how difficult it is to wash your own hair when it's as long as ours. So get to it!" as he presented her with his own muscular back.
Kitty sighed heavily grumbling, "Let's get this over with." She gently washed his hair and he found himself enjoying the feel of her nimble fingers running through his hair and massaging his scalp. She finished proclaiming, "It's done. Now I'm leaving."
She moved to stand up and get out of the water again. Bankotsu once again reached over snagging her elbow and pulled her back in the water so hard, she ended up falling into his arms and against his toned chest, as he stumbled back himself.
After recovering from her shock, she was about to protest again when her eyes widened as she drank in the sight of him. She memorized every dent of his chiseled abs and the span of his tanned chest and wide shoulders, and the corded muscles of his thick neck. Shaking her head to clear it she glared into his eyes icily demanding, "Now what the hell are you doing?"
He'd seen her checking him out and considered teasing her about it, but thought better of it noticing the anger in her eyes so instead, he grinned at her eyes dancing with enjoyment and replied, "I've decided I am enjoying your company, so you will stay until I'm done and we'll return together."
Kitty looked flabbergasted and yelled, "You're out of your mind! I am not bathing with a man!"
He quirked a brow and inquired dryly, "Why, do you prefer women instead?"
She became angry glaring at him harder and yelled, "Are you insane? NO! I'm just not used to bathing with anyone but myself!"
Bankotsu pleased with this revelation grinned, and declared seriously, "Tough! Now sit down and behave yourself." Kitty glared at him and growled, "Make me!" as she moved to get out again.
Bankotsu shrugged, and yanked her over to him again. He quickly spun them around and pushed her against the rock, blocking her body from moving with his own leaning on her, effectively pinning her against the big rock with his chiseled body.
He smirked smugly at her shocked expression and leaned down claiming her lips with his own. He kissed her greedily a few minutes then pulled back breaking the kiss. Kitty tried shoving him off but he smirked, staying put with his arms caging her between them leaving her no option for escape.
After fifteen minutes of trying to fight him off to no avail, she stopped struggling and sighed heavily in defeat. Bankotsu chuckled looking down into her eyes and asked amused, "You finished yet?" She glared at him sighing heavily and nodded.
He ordered evenly, "Good. Now sit down and behave, until I'm ready to leave." He placed his hands on the rock firmly and pushed himself off the rock, causing his biceps to bulge and reluctantly removed his body from hers.
She sighed in relief and did as she'd been instructed. Slamming back to reality as a light breeze blew past reminding her she was fully exposed to his gaze she once again moved to cover her arms over her chest.
Bankotsu seeing this reached over annoyed, grabbing her arms, and warned her seriously, "No you don't!" staring into her eyes her scolded, "Stop trying to hide yourself from me." as he gently but firmly removed her arms from her chest and held them, pinned against the rock, above her head with them now standing again. Her face flushed bright pink from embarrassment as he gazed down openly at her ample chest. His heated gaze traced every curve of her plump mounds down to the scar a scant few inches below her left nipple.
Bankotsu allowing his gaze to wonder the remainder of her torso to where the water cut off his gaze studied the beauty before him who had the body of a goddess, hair that shimmered like silk, only midnight black that was very wavy and reached to her waist, and curves that would make any woman jealous. After looking his fill, he raised his gaze to her own, noticing her embarrassment he taunted, "What's the matter? Never had a man even just look at you before, huh?"
She stared in his eyes and whispered shyly, "No I haven't."
He looked shocked and said, "Aw, come on, you must be at least in your early twenties by now, you're seriously telling me that you've never had a man look at your naked body before?" disbelief clearly written across his features.
She sighed heavily and whispered sadly, "I am twenty-one. I was engaged before the village was slaughtered, but he...he died with the rest of the village."
Bankotsu staring her dead in the eye and demanded, "Did you love him?"
Kitty replied seriously, "No, I didn't. I barely knew him! But the village headman insisted on the marriage and I had no choice. Hell, I wasn't even allowed to leave until the neighboring village became deathly ill. They had no choice but to let me go to them, because I was the only priestess in the entire four villages."
Bankotsu's eyes softened and he added softly, "So you're telling me you've never been touched by a man before either, right?" She blushed again and nodded. He informed her seriously, "In these times a woman like you should be married. Not roaming the lands slaying demons, especially not alone!" he finished harshly.
Tears began to roll down her cheeks, as she whispered, "I know. After my village was slaughtered, I set out on my own. I returned to the village I grew up in, only to find that they'd been slaughtered as well." Looking away from his probing gaze she continued, "After that I decided to set out alone and travel alone. There was nowhere else for me to go." finishing sadly.
Bankotsu overcome with the urge to comfort her gently wrapped her in his arms. She buried her head against his strong chest and cried. Bankotsu soothed, "It is okay. You're not alone anymore. And you never will be again." Kitty nodded and pushed away from his chest.
Bankotsu sighed letting her go, and sat back down in the water. He absentmindedly began rubbing his sorest shoulder. Kitty noticing this moved over to sit behind him, and began expertly massaging his shoulders. He was startled and asked softly, "What are you doing?"
She replied softly, "Trying to help you. You've helped me so much already, it's the least I can do." Bankotsu sighed and let her continue.
Twenty minutes later,she announced, "They're all better now."
Bankotsu was amazed at how relaxed he felt. He looked at her saying, "Uh, thanks." She nodded. He said, "Well, we should get going now." She nodded and they climbed out. They gathered their clothes and walked behind the trees and dressed. They got their weapons and walked back to the camp together.
Bankotsu reached out and grabbed her elbow as he stopped her just outside the camp looking into her eyes and said seriously, "Listen about what happened in the hot springs, I'm sorry. I didn't know... I want you to know, I won't force myself on you ever. I may be a mercenary, but even I never force myself onto an unwilling woman!" They both looked at each other and nodded, and then they walked into camp.
After seeing them enter the camp, Jakotsu ran up and said, "Oh, there you two are. I was looking for you, big brother."
Bankotsu looked at him noticing his expression and asked, "What did you need, Jakotsu?"
Jakotsu looked at him and answered, "Suikotsu returned from patrolling the area and said he saw Koga in the area."
Bankotsu grumbled, "Just what we don't need right now." clenching his fists. Here he was finally relaxed and now he had to fight. Normally it wouldn't bother him, but he was enjoying his pain free muscles.
Kitty looked at Bankotsu asking curiously, "Who is Koga? And why would he be here?" knowing from his tone that this wouldn't bode well.
Bankotsu looking at her responded, "He's the prince of the wolf demon tribe and I don't know yet, but most likely he's looking for us."
Kitty questioned dryly, "Do I even want to know why?" fearing she really didn't.
Bankotsu replied evenly, "We were ordered to fight and kill him." staring at her to gauge her reaction.
Kitty sighed and said dryly, "I knew I shouldn't have asked." shaking her head.
Bankotsu smiled encouraging, "Cheer up... He is a weakling and no threat at all to us. Plus you have us now to protect you if it does become necessary, which I doubt it will anyway."
Kitty nodding mentioned, "Just let me get my bow and arrows, and my katana, then we can go." Bankotsu nodded and grabbed his Banryu as she collected her bow, arrows, and katana. They walked back outside to the others and they all took off together. Suikotsu lead them to where he had last seen Koga's whirlwind.
In another open fieldten minutes later the famous whirlwind appeared. Koga stepped out of the whirlwind and exclaimed, "I found you at last! Prepare to die, Bankotsu!" while glaring at the mercenary leader.
Bankotsu looked at the wolf prince a little bored and replied dryly, "You really think you can take me on, huh? Come on then!" He hefted his Banryu and prepared to defend himself.
After looking the wolf man over and noticing the shards, Kitty yelled out, "Wait! Bankotsu, He has jewel shards in each of his legs."
Koga's eyes widened in shock and he looked at her and said, "Hm, another woman who can see the shards, eh? Where did you find this wench I wonder, eh, Bankotsu?"
Kitty sighed and retorted dryly, "Another one? What is it with these men who think they will get away with calling me wench, anyway? Guess I will just have to teach this one some manners as well." Bankotsu smiled. Kitty proclaimed angrily, "I will warn you only once, wolf boy. I have a name-it's Catherine, now use it or else I will beat some manners into you myself!"
Bankotsu quite eager to see her fight the wolf and teach him some manners grinned stepping aside and bowed, signaling for Kitty to go first. Koga looked at her and said dryly, "A feisty one, aren't you? Very well then, if you think you can take me on by all means please try it, wench!"
Kitty sighed and drew her sword, quickly charged at the wolf. Koga's eyes widened even more in shock as he hadn't expected her to be so quick, he tried to dodge her attack, but ended up having to try to block the sword with his arms. Kitty brought down her sword, cutting his arm. He yowled in pain. Kitty back flipped away as he started getting up. Koga glared daggers at her and seethed angrily, "You bitch! You'll pay for that!"
Kitty sighed and said, "I told you, stupid wolf! I have a name. Use it! Not wench, not bitch or anything thing else... It is Koneko!"
Koga charged the woman and she easily jumped out of his way, slicing his stomach in the process. She put her katana away, drew her bow and notched an arrow and aimed it at his head. Koga saw this and was stunned. Koga questioned, "How come you are with these idiots anyway? You are a priestess right?" Kitty nodded. Koga asked angrily, "Why are you helping these murderous bastards then?"
Kitty let the arrow fly and it smacked into the tree right behind Koga, barely missing him. Koga's eyes widened in utter shock. Kitty smirked at him and informed him evenly, "That was a warning shot. I won't miss next time, wolf. Do not insult them or me again."
Koga grew angry glared at her and demanded, "Why help them? Why not fight on the side of the good guys?" who'd ever suspect a priestess would be working with the Schichinatai?
Kitty held his gaze and said evenly, "Bankotsu saved me, and they have treated me like family when no one else has. That's why!" Kitty notched another arrow and added, "Now answer me this, wolf! Why do you have sacred jewel shards in your legs?"
Koga held her gaze and growled "To protect my tribe and defeat the bastard who slaughtered most of them!" as he said the last part his voice dropped denoting his anger, and his blue eyes burned with rage.
Kitty lowered her bow and mumbled, "I see." As what he said sunk in. It wouldn't be right to fight him since they were in effect doing the same thing.
Bankotsu and the others had been looking on and smiling up to that point. Kitty turned to Bankotsu looking into his eyes and asked seriously, "Why were you ordered to kill this wolf anyways?"
Bankotsu looking directly at her answered shrugging, "The one who revived us did so in order for us to kill his enemies. Koga is one of them."
Kitty quirked a brow and queried, "Just who exactly was that?" as a foreboding feeling settled over her.
Bankotsu sighed answering solemnly, "His name is Naraku." He mentally kicked himself as he saw her expression change instantly.
Kitty's eyes narrowed to slits as she yelled angrily, "NARAKU!? That's the bastard who ordered both of my villages slaughtered!" She put her arrow away commanding evenly, "Leave now Koga, while you still can."
Koga surprised she had stood down and feeling his blood seep through his hand on his stomach didn't need to be told twice he turned into his whirlwind and ran away.
Bankotsu walked over getting up in her face, and confronted her demanding angrily, "Koneko! Why did you let him go?" His own eyes blazing with anger he spat, "We have to kill him," pointing in the direction Koga had left in.
Kitty glared at Bankotsu, with her hands on her hips, and seethed, "I will not aid that bastard Naraku in any of his plans! He slaughtered both of my villages."
Clenching her fists so tight they turned white she spat out, "I will never forgive that cold blooded bastard! I will kill that bastard myself!" She looked at Bankotsu directly with eyes full of unshed tears and hurt clearly evident, and said brokenly and angrily, "I can't believe you are all working for him! You should have told me... I never would have stayed."
Spinning on her heel she stormed back towards the camp to retrieve her Hiraiku. Bankotsu sighed heavily looking at his men. "Let's head back." He ordered, as he hefted his Banryu onto his shoulder and everyone else followed him back to camp. As he watched the landscape slowly move past him and his men, Bankotsu sighed, deep in thought, "Why did she let that damn fleabag go? Who the hell does she think she is yelling at me like that?! And in front of my men no less."
His anger began to boil over and his speed increased hurrying towards the camp. He was damn well going to get some answers out of her.
Author's Note: Okay guys and gals there is chapter two please remember to read and review thanks.