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 5:
Kitty sat down beside Jakotsu, helping him smoke some fish for breakfast. Bankotsu walked over to Renkotsu and Suikotsu nudging them with a foot and commanded, "Up, you lazy bums. We leave after breakfast."
Everyone ate their fish. They gathered their weapons and set off to join up with Inuyasha and the others.
With Inuyasha and co:
Inuyasha frustration evident was pacing as he growled, "Where the hell are they? They'd better not be trying to ditch us already." as his pacing increased.
Sango who was sitting down by the fire looked at him encouraging, "Relax, Inuyasha, it's only been two days. They said a few, meaning three or four. So chill a little."
Kagome who was busy cooking announced sweetly, "Inuyasha the ramen is finished." hiding a smile as his usual reaction happened.
Inuyasha's ears perked up, as his eyes lit up and he looked over at her saying, "Ramen? Well, why didn't you say so?" He ran over to Kagome, who handed him a big bowel of the steamy noodles he loved so much. He sat down and began scarfing his gigantic bowel of ramen. Seeing this Kagome smiled and Sango winked at her. "Thus ends the tirade of Inuyasha." she thought happily.
Miroku also seeing this chuckled. Looking at Kagome he asked, "Where is mine?" She handed him and Sango a bowl of ramen each. She got a bowel for herself and sat down to eat.
With Koga and co:
Koga had just finished explaining things to his men and said, "So that's the gist of it. Do you two understand?" while staring from one to the other.
Ginta and Hakaku looking at him nodded. They inquired in unison, "What about Ayame, Koga?"
Koga sighing griped, "Is she still going on about that?" They both continued looking at him and nodded. Koga sighed responding, "Then I expect we will have to deal with her eventually, she will not like that Koneko is now my woman, and not Kagome." with determination clearly visible in his eyes.
Ginta frowned at him and commented warily, "Koga, Ayame barely tolerated Kagome. There is no way she is gonna tolerate another woman."
Koga snorted, "Tough shit! Ayame is just gonna have to face facts-end of story!" Ginta and Hakkaku exchanged a look shaking their heads. The three set off to meet with the others.
Elsewhere:
"Kanna, show me!" ordered Naraku. Kanna entered the room holding up her mirror for Naraku, who looked into it. He chuckled as he caught the last part of Koga's conversation. Naraku proclaimed out loud, "So, you've shown up again after all these years, eh? What shall I do to you now I wonder? Perhaps I shall kill your beloved wolf Hm?" He cackled eyes full of malice and hatred.
With Bankotsu and co:
Bankotsu informed his band, "We should meet up with Inuyasha and the others tomorrow afternoon at the latest. For now we will take rooms at the next village we come across and stop for the night." Everyone nodded and they continued walking. Fifteen minutes later they came across a small village.
At the village:
Bankotsu and his band walked over to the inn keeper. Bankotsu decreed, "We would like two rooms for the night." The Innkeeper looked at the group then back at the man who had spoken and mentioned that a lady was only allowed to stay with her husband. Bankotsu staring him dead in the eye replied evenly, "That is me. Now, my wife and I would like a room and one for our companions as well only for tonight."
The others looked at their leader strangely but said nothing. The Innkeeper announced, "Fifty Ryou." Bankotsu handed over the money and the Innkeeper lead them to their rooms. He led them up the stairs and halfway down the hall then stopped in front of a door he faced Bankotsu saying, "You and your wife will be in this room, sir." Bankotsu nodded and took their key before unlocking the door.
At Bankotsu and Kitty's room:
Bankotsu opened the door and pulled Kitty into their room. He shut the door. Kitty faced him raising a brow and queried, "Wife?"
Bankotsu looked into her eyes replying seriously, "It was the only way the Innkeeper would have let us get two rooms, instead of three. Besides you are my woman, we just aren't married." shrugging carelessly during the last part.
Kitty sighing questioned, "Great, so what if I wanted to dance tonight?" looking disappointed.
Bankotsu responded, "Then you still can, with me. Only now everyone will know we are together and there won't be any more fights like last time." as he placed Banryu against the wall.
Kitty smiled placing Hiraiku beside Banryu, and teased, "Come on 'husband' take me dancing. And to eat, I am hungry. Plus, I want to have some fun before we meet up with Inuyasha and the rest."
Bankotsu grimaced saying, "Alright, 'wife', let's go eat." He led her out of the room with a hand on the small of her back, locking the door behind them and pocketing the key.
Inside the tavern:
Bankotsu and Kitty walked in and ordered some food. The others were already in the tavern, eating and waved Bankotsu and Kitty over to eat with them. They obliged and while waiting for their food, Kitty decided to dance. She stood up taking him by the hand and dragged Bankotsu onto the dance floor. Bankotsu who wasn't much for dancing grimaced but wrapped his arms around her hips and danced with her.
He looked at her face and smiled. Seeing the enjoyment on her face, he decided he was glad he didn't say no and risk her disappointment. Besides, he liked the feel of her just being in his arms. Looking around the room, he noticed he was getting envious looks from some of the men and seeing that only made him burst with pride knowing that Kitty was his and his only!
After a while the food arrived and he noticed it. He led her back to their table to eat. She sat down happily and ate her food. Everyone did so as well then they walked backed to their rooms.
As soon as they entered their room and closed the door; Bankotsu lifted Kitty into his arms. She smiled at him wrapping her arms around his neck and began playing with his hair. He carried her to the bed stopping at the foot of the bed and slowly slid her down his body depositing her on her feet.
His lips began to play with her neck as his hands untied her clothes before sliding along her skin as he undressed her, making sure to tease her. She helped him undress and he pushed her onto the bed beginning to massage her breast while kissing her neck. Her fingers dug into the muscles of his back as she began moaning. The only thing that existed for them for the rest of the night was each other and their intense passion, and desire for one another.
The next morning:
Bankotsu rolled out of bed, smiling at Kitty who was also awake. Kitty looked at him from across the room and purred, "Morning, hot stuff."
He looked at her grinning and replied, "Morning, vixen." as he walked over to her.
She smiled leaning over and kissed him passionately. He kissed her dominantly, leading her back to the bed. He laid her down and began undressing her. Kitty broke the kiss laughing. She reminded, "Ban, we need to get going soon."
He looked at her with desire in his eyes and informed huskily, "After I have my woman for breakfast." Kissing her neck as his hands began teasing her breast she lost all thought after that.
An hour later they had bathed, dressed, and knocked on the other's door. Bankotsu yelled, "Up you lay-a-bouts. We eat and then we leave, so move it!" Turning around he and Kitty walked to the tavern and ordered breakfast.
Inside the tavern:
Just after their food arrived, Jakotsu, Suikotsu, and Renkotsu walked over to the table and ordered breakfast. Bankotsu looked at them exclaiming, "It's about time!" Jakotsu childishly stuck his tongue out at Bankotsu, and Kitty giggled. Bankotsu rolled his eyes at Jakotsu before ordering, "Eat up guys, this is it until we meet up with the others later tonight."
One of the barmaids sauntered over making sure to lean over so the guys could see her ample cleavage. She set the food down asking sensually while staring lustfully at Bankotsu, "Anything else?" with pure unadulterated lust in her eyes.
Kitty seeing this rolled her eyes thinking, "Seriously, has she no respect for herself?" Bankotsu became annoyed and snapped, "Nothing, This is all." glaring icily at the barmaid.
The barmaid pouting, queried, "Are you sure, handsome?" leaning over a little more so she almost fell out of her top.
Bankotsu narrowed his eyes and slung an arm over Kitty's shoulder pulling her closer to him. He stared into the woman's eyes and barked, "I'm sure. Now scram!"
The barmaid unable to believe she'd been treated so harshly stormed off. Renkotsu looking at him quirking a brow questioned, "Are you feeling okay, big brother?"
Bankotsu looked at him responding crisply, "Why wouldn't I be?"
Renkotsu pointed out, "You just turned down a wench that was blatantly offering herself to you."
Bankotsu removed his arm from Kitty's shoulder and shrugging said, "I'm fine. Now eat up, we leave in ten minutes."
Everyone ate their food before standing up and walked out of the tavern. They went to their rooms gathering their stuff and turned in their keys to the Innkeeper before leaving.
During the trip:
Halfway to Inuyasha and the others, Kitty was behind with Jakotsu talking when Bankotsu stopped and yelled, "Koneko!"
Kitty ran up to him smiling and queried, "Yes?"
Bankotsu demanded, "You will walk up here with me, In case any more shards come our way."
Koneko nodding agreed, "As you wish." moving to stand beside her lover.
Bankotsu nodded and they set off walking side by side. After a few minutes Bankotsu glanced at her asking, "So what do we tell the others?"
Kitty responded, "Whatever you want. I don't expect any special treatment because we are sleeping together or anything." she knew she still had to pull her own weight, it was only fair.
Bankotsu nodded informing her, "Good, because it doesn't change things. I am still the leader of this group, and everyone obeys my orders. Are we clear?" He stopped also stopping her by reaching out and grabbing her elbow then spinning her to face him during the last part.
Koneko smiled replying, "Just remember leader, I take orders only when I agree with them." Kitty continued, "You may be more knowledgeable in the bedroom activities. But I am a warrior through and through and obey only those orders I deem necessary."
Bankotsu narrowed his eyes at her demanding, "Are you saying you won't take orders from me, woman?" this wouldn't sit well with him at all!
Koneko holding his gaze replied sweetly, "Not if you act all high and mighty. You may be the leader of this group, but I am in charge of my own decisions."
Bankotsu glared at her informing her, "You will obey me, woman. I am your man now, and you will do as I say- without question!" his free hand balled into a fist by his side in an effort to control his temper.
Koneko countered, "You listen here Bank, I may be your woman now, but that doesn't mean I will allow my freedom to be restricted. If I think your order is wrong I won't follow it- plain and simple." placing her free hand on her hip to glare back at him.
Bankotsu having had enough stopped, scooping her over his shoulder. She was overcome by shock and dropped her Hiraiku. He ignoring her protests stormed over to a rather large tree for privacy. Dropping her on the ground, she landed firmly and roughly on her butt. The others, having seen their leader's outburst, decided it would be best to stop and wait.
By the tree with Bankotsu and Kitty:
Bankotsu looked at her and roared angrily, "I am the man here, woman. You will do as I say- or else! I am the leader of this group, and my authority goes without question!" his cobalt gaze storming with anger and his jaw clenched.
Kitty glared at him as she stood to her feet reaching back and dusted off her sore backside. She replied angrily, "You are the leader of your group, but not of me! Just because you are the man and leader, don't think I won't kick your ass if you continue trying to enslave me, Bankotsu."
Now crossing her arms over her chest she continued," I have been on my own for years, and am used to making all decisions for myself. I am willing to compromise, and allow you to make me a member of your group, but do not ever act like you own me and make my decisions for me." She growled clenching her fists on her hips, "I am no one's slave! Got that?" sparks of anger in her eyes.
Bankotsu began pacing with his hands clasped behind his back. He was still glaring at her and fumed, "As long as you do not question my authority in front of my men and behave yourself, we will get along fine." Really did she have to be so damn difficult? He'd finally gotten her to accept his claim and now this. It was getting on his nerves fast!
Kitty glared icily at him and informing him, "Just because we slept together doesn't mean that you own me. No one owns me but me! I'm a free willed person, and I will be damned if I let anyone own me!"
Bankotsu thought, "Fuck this, time to remind her why I'm in charge!" reaching out he yanked her by the waist over to his body blocking her hand that tried to slap him and captured her mouth in a bruising kiss. She tried to move away but his hand pushed her shoulder forcing her into the kiss. After a minute of struggling she sighed and began kissing him back.
Bankotsu pulled back smirking. She spun on her heel and stormed off, stopping to pick up her Hiraiku from where it fell when she was tossed over his shoulder. She continued on the quest to join up with Inuyasha and the others.
Bankotsu followed her scowling and muttering about, "Damn stubborn, independent, feisty ass wench." He looked at the others who were staring at him questioningly and demanded, "What are you looking at? Move out!" with anger and frustration evident in his eyes. They jumped at the ferocity of his tone and immediately, they all set off again.
Later that evening with Inuyasha and co:
Koga arrived at the camp and not seeing any sign of Kitty, stormed over to Inuyasha demanding, "Hey mutt, where the hell is my woman?"
Inuyasha glared at Koga retorting disdainfully, "How the hell would I know?" glaring at the wolf.
Sango who was sitting by the fire stood up glaring at Koga and said, "Koga, she isn't your woman. She has made it clear that she doesn't want to be either."
Koga scoffed at her as he glared at her saying, "She has no say in it. I claimed her, and now she is mine- period." puffing out his chest arrogantly.
Hearing this and still pissed about the whole situation with Bankotsu, Koneko walked up glaring at Koga and roared, "Is that right, wolf boy? I told you I am not your woman," anger evident in her voice and eyes.
Sango looked over to her friend greeting, "Hey Koneko, glad you all made it." Koneko looked at Sango nodding and glared back at Koga again.
Inuyasha storming over to her exclaimed, "It's about damn time. Where are the others?"
Koneko shrugged saying off handedly, "On their way. I left 'em behind a while back. They will be here soon enough." staring into his golden eyes.
Koga ran over to Koneko and hugged her. He said, "Finally." pulling back to look her in the face he demanded, "Now why the hell did you go off with another male?" barely leashed fury in his eyes.
Koneko glared icily at Koga shoving him off and demanded, "Get off me, wolf breath. Don't act all possessive over me either. I am not your woman!" getting into another glaring contest with the wolf.
Bankotsu showed up staring the wolf prince dead in the eye and declared dead serious, "That's right, wolf boy, She is my woman!" with a smug look on his face.
She glared at Bankotsu warning, "Don't you start either." She stormed over and sat down by Sango. Sango looking at her friend raised a brow in question.
Koga narrowed his eyes at Bankotsu and demanded, "What the hell do you mean, she is your woman?" getting ready to square off against the mercenary.
Bankotsu sneered, "You deaf, wolf? I said Cathy is my woman." rubbing it in the wolf's face childishly.
Koneko stood up glaring at Bankotsu and said, "That is debatable at the moment." Bankotsu glared at Koneko and she glared right back at him. Koneko roared, "Now sit down and shut up, both of you. You are acting like children and giving me one hell of a headache!" she began massaging her temples and sat back down. Inuyasha snickered. Both Bankotsu and Koga glared at him then each other but they sat down and behaved themselves.
Renkotsu and Suikotsu walked into camp and sat by Bankotsu. Jakotsu walked over shocking everyone not from his group as he sat beside Kitty. Sango and Miroku looked shocked but said nothing. Kagome made stew, then doled it out and everyone ate.
After eating Koneko who was feeling a bit better smiled at Kagome saying, "Thank you Kagome, the stew was great." Everyone but Inuyasha agreed.
She stood up walking over to Koga, stared him in the eye and informed him, "Now Koga, listen carefully, because I'm only going to say this one last time! I am not your woman! I'm Bankotsu's girl, got it?" Seeing Bankotsu triumphant smirk and Kitty's seriousness, Koga bowed his head.
She walked over to Bankotsu angrily poking him in the chest and continued, "You better listen up too, pal. If you don't stop trying to treat me like a slave, I won't be your woman either. Got it?" as she raised a brow at him.
Bankotsu sighed heavily stared into her eyes quietly for a moment before he pointed out evenly, "I wasn't trying to treat you like a slave."
Koneko retorted, "It sure as hell felt like it." She looked around noticing they had an audience. She sighed heavily taking his hand and lead Bankotsu away from the others. Bankotsu not happy about having an audience either walked with her.
With Koneko and Bankotsu:
She stopped under a tree letting go of his hand. She faced him looking him dead in the eye and informed him, "Listen, Bankotsu. I realize as the leader you have to maintain authority in front of your men, okay I get that. But I am a very independent person, and I don't want to lose that. I want a partner, not a master!"
Bankotsu really didn't want to lose her, but he needed her to understand. Not really wanting to argue with her he sighed heavily reaching out to her shoulders and pulled her into his chest.
She stiffened but relaxed allowing him to pull her to him. He looked at her directly and responded, "I will be that partner. Just don't argue with me in front of my men!" seeing the stubborn tilt of her chin he added, "I'm the man. It's my job to protect you. I just don't want to fight with you understand?"
He knew she was independent; it was part of what he loved about her. She knew deep down he was being his over protective self and trying to take care of her. She nodded and reached her lips up to his. They kissed and she began nibbling his neck. Smirking he pulled her lower body close to his. After making out a little he pulled back suggesting, "We should go back, before they come to get us." she nodded.
Having reached an understanding that both could live with, they walked hand in hand back to the group both smiling.
Back at camp:
Koga saw them enter the camp holding hands. He narrowed his eyes and sneered, "Aw, did the happy saps make up?" he couldn't fathom why she'd choose that corpse over a powerful demon like him.
Bankotsu looked over at him smirking and said, "You're just jealous wolf, because she's my woman and not yours." wrapping his hands possessively around Kitty's waist from behind. She settled her hands on top of his leaning into his embrace smiling. Koga became disgusted snorting and stormed off.
Miroku who had been looking on announced, "Well now, that was fun." amusement visible in his eyes.
Sango looked at Koneko and queried, "So Koneko, are you two...you know, together now?"
Koneko's smiled spread and eyes shining with happiness she nodded. Bankotsu smirked puffing his chest out with pride... Inuyasha who had also been looking on, shook his head spitting out, "I can't believe you are with that murderous bastard."
She looked at him and responded evenly, "What he did in the past is exactly that- his past. Since I have known him, he has been sweet most times and kind. So back off mutt, before I have to whoop your ass again."
Inuyasha affronted at the audacity of her, snorted, "As if."
Kitty narrowed her eyes at Inuyasha. Bankotsu not liking that Inuyasha was pestering his woman, also narrowed his eyes at Inuyasha adding coolly, "I can take you any day mutt, so simmer down."
Inuyasha stared at Bankotsu drawing his sword and yelled, "Just try it!"
Kagome's eyes flew wide as she yelled, "Sit boy!"
Inuyasha crashed into the dirt. Bankotsu smirked, and Kitty smiled looking at Kagome and said, "Thanks, Kagome."
Kagome looking at Koneko nodded. She turned back to Inuyasha and lightly scolded him, "We are all on the same side now Inuyasha, so behave and stop trying to start a fight."
Inuyasha glaring at Bankotsu pulled himself back up before sitting down scoffing, "Teh! Whatever!" he crossed his arms over his chest pouting. Sango sighed heavily shaking her head.
Koga came back with Ginta and Hakkaku. Everyone sat around and began making plans.
Inuyasha glared at Bankotsu from across the fire saying, "Okay genius this was all your girlfriend's bright idea, so what now?"
Kitty looked at Inuyasha replying, "First of all mutt, I have a name- use it! Secondly, that's what we are all supposed to be figuring out. Now does anyone have any ideas?" while gazing from one person to the next for the last part.
Jakotsu nervously suggested, "Um... we could try tracking down some leads on Naraku's whereabouts." unsure if it would work.
Kitty looking at Jakotsu grinned and encouraged him, "Good Idea, Jaky." Jakotsu looked back at her and smiled nodding.
Inuyasha looked from one person to the next and queried, "Any other ideas?"
Renkotsu suggested, "We could try using the jewel shards as bait." glaring at the priestess he added, "Maybe we will get lucky, and Cathy will be stolen with them." with disgust in his voice.
Bankotsu shot a warning glare at Renkotsu. Koneko looked over at Renkotsu and retorted, "Looks like someone else is jealous as well, eh Renkotsu?"
Renkotsu glared at her and snorted, "This only goes to prove that what I said was true."
Koneko stood up balling her fists. She glared at him as she fumed, "Must we go through this yet again, you asshole?"
Bankotsu also stood up glaring at Renkotsu and warned him, "Can it, Renkotsu! We need to focus on the topic at hand- not your petty jealousy." Kitty smiling sat back down and Bankotsu did likewise. He reached out fixing Kitty so she was sitting between his legs that were bent at the knees and wrapped his arms around her laying his chin on top of her shoulder.
Miroku looked around asking, "I wonder what that all was about?" with a suggestive look in his eyes.
Sango stared at him and seethed, "Shut up and focus, monk!"
Inuyasha rolled his eyes. Addressing the entire group he said, "Well, Naraku has obviously hidden his cowardly ass again. So, what are we gonna do?"
Kitty pointed out, "He slaughtered both of my villages after I left, so maybe he is trying to target me directly or something?"
Sango looked at her and asked, "Why, though? Why you?" while frowning.
Kitty looking into her chocolate eyes sighed, and informed her, "Because the priestess I learned from was directly descended from Midoriko herself." Everyone's jaws dropped.
Kitty looked from one person to another and continued, "Because of this, Naraku fears me greatly. He knows I'm coming for him, and is trying to hide from me. He knows I have all the powers of my former master, and even some of those that Midoriko had."
Sango thinking it over and responded, "That would definitely explain it! Midoriko was a legend in our village. If you were indeed trained by her descendant, that would make you even deadlier then Kikyo." an almost awed look on her face.
Kitty nodded replying, "I am aware of that. Kikyo was a great priestess, but unfortunately, she died. I am also aware that Kagome is her reincarnation; however Kagome cannot defeat Naraku with her powers. Even Kikyo herself knows this."
She looked over at Kagome and informed her, "No offense, but you have a long way to go before you can defeat Naraku. That is why I agreed to everyone working together. Kagome you have come far in such a short time, but you still need my help and if you agree to it, I will train you while we journey. But that is solely your choice." Kagome's eyes widened in shock as everything sank in.
Kitty looked at Inuyasha saying, "You have also come a long way in a short time- but you need to become even stronger. Don't get me wrong; you are still just a teenager in demon years, are you not?" Inuyasha nodded. Kitty continued, "Your brother however, has become cold and ruthless, although he is not as short tempered as some."
Miroku looked at Kitty questioningly and inquired, "You speak of things over fifty years past, yet you are no more than seventeen or eighteen, how is this?"
Kitty smiling once again looked from one person to the next and replied, "Simple and complicated. You see, I am Midoriko's reincarnation. As such I know all that has happened since she died. She has been watching over the world, since her passing. Like Kagome I am also my own person, but I do have a purpose."
Miroku looked directly at her informing her, "That explains the aura I sense around you, it's an ancient aura."
Kitty nodded explaining, "Yes it is. She lies dormant mostly in me- but in the time of great need, she tells me what must be done and lends me her strength. You could say she acts through me."
She looked at Bankotsu and informed him, "You my brave warrior, have longed for a chance to make amends for so long now. This is the chance for your entire band to make amends and be able to rest at peace once and for all."
She turned to Koga adding, "This is your chance to avenge your comrades, and fulfill your promise to your beloved Ayame." Koga eyes wide blinked.
She looked at Sango continuing, "And for you to avenge your family, as well as our village." Sango nodded.
Kitty addressed the entire group announcing, "When we have defeated Naraku, I wish us all long happy healthy lives filled with love and joy." Briefly her eyes dimmed. Shaking it off, she sighed heavily concluding, "Even I cannot locate Naraku. We must find and obliterate him."
A visitor:
Kikyo and her soul collectors appeared. Kikyo stared at Inuyasha commanding coolly, "Inuyasha, tell me who is your new friend? Why do I find all of you gathered together?"
Kitty looking at the newcomer greeted, "Hello at last, Kikyo. I am Catherine, and the reincarnation of Midoriko."
Kikyo stared at her and queried, "You? So you are the one... Tell me why are you with my Inuyasha, and his friends? Why are the wolves and the remaining Band of Seven here as well?"
Kitty held her gaze replying evenly, "We will all destroy Naraku together. I am here to fulfill the task Midoriko was unable to."
Kikyo staring into her with a searching gaze questioned, "You will complete and destroy the Shikon Jewel?"
Kitty informed her adamantly, "With the help of the others, I will finally rid the world of that cursed jewel!"
Kikyo searched her gaze a moment then narrowed her gaze warning, "Naraku is mine. Stay out of my way."
Kitty narrowed her gaze warning, "Watch who you threaten priestess, or you will find yourself cast into the fires of hell alone before you can even blink!"
Kikyo notched and released an arrow aimed directly at Kitty. Kitty stood still, concentrating on the arrow and before the arrow got within five feet of her, it obliterated. Kitty stared at Kikyo and warned her, "I will only warn you once more, watch your step clay pot! Unless you wish to be as your arrow just was."
Inuyasha's eyes narrowed, he growled and stepped between Kikyo and Kitty with his sword drawn. He glared at Kitty bellowing angrily, "You will not threaten Kikyo!"
Bankotsu's eyes also narrowed and he grabbed his Banryu standing in front of Kitty. He glared at Inuyasha and roared angrily, "You will not threaten Kitty!" Renkotsu, Suikotsu, and Jakotsu all jumped up ready to defend their little sister if needed. Renkotsu was disgusted he'd predicted right but she was still one of his group.
Kitty placed a hand on Bankotsu's shoulder saying evenly "Calm down please." He looked over at her and relaxed his stance a fraction. She stared at Inuyasha and informed him, "Inuyasha, you will not defeat me so don't even try it! Ask your precious Kikyo for yourself, if you don't believe me."
Kikyo lowered her head and said, "She is right Inuyasha, you would perish in an instant." Kitty nodded. Kikyo lowered her bow looking at Kitty and said, "I beg your pardon for my rashness."
Kitty looked at her and replied, "All is forgiven. I know what you have been through Kikyo, which is why I ask you join us. Together we will all defeat Naraku."
Kikyo taken by surprise at the request answered, "I must think on this."
Kitty nodded, "Of course."
Kikyo looked at Inuyasha. "I shall find you again Inuyasha." as her soul collectors lifted her off into the sky.
Once again, everyone sat back down around the fire in a circle. Inuyasha went off into a tree to sulk with everyone staring after him. Kitty facing the group informed them, "Well, I think we have had enough excitement for one day, but if anyone has any ideas how to locate Naraku, I am all ears."
Sango looked at her suggesting, "We should all head off into different directions, scouting around for rumors concerning Naraku and such."
Miroku looked at Sango agreeing, "Good idea, my lovely Sango."
Bankotsu turned and faced the group adding, "We split into groups then. Smaller groups of say three people per group, and scout around."
Koga turned his attention back to the group and agreed, "Alright, but who goes with whom?"
Kagome faced the group suggesting, "We should have at least one member per group, that isn't normally with the others."
Sango nodded and said, "I agree." with a dead serious look in her chocolate brown eyes.
Miroku faced Kagome praising, "That is a very wise idea, Lady Kagome." Kagome blushed.
Inuyasha who had been listening in the tree, jumped down. Storming over he commanded determinedly, "Kagome stays with me!" He looked at Kagome, adding seriously, "That way I can protect you." Kagome and the others all nodded. Inuyasha faced the group decreeing, "Miroku, Sango, you both go with Koga." They both nodded.
Bankotsu held Inuyasha's gaze and informed him, "Koneko goes with me. This way, both of the priestesses are protected."
Inuyasha agreed, "Fine, now for the others."
Bankotsu turned to address his men commanding, "Suikotsu, you go with Inuyasha. Jakotsu, you will head east."
Koga turned to the wolves and decreed, "Ginta, you go with Jakotsu. Hakkaku, you go with Cathy." Suikotsu, Jakotsu, Ginta, and Hakkaku, all grumbled and nodded.
Bankotsu turning to Renkotsu demanded, "Renkotsu, you are going with Jakotsu and Hakkaku."
Renkotsu nodded and acknowledged, "Yes, big brother."
Kitty sighed heavily. Inuyasha looked at everyone saying, "Alright, the groups are decided. Kagome, Suikotsu, and I, will head north."
Bankotsu also looked at everyone declaring, "We go south."
Sango looking at Miroku mentioned, "That leaves us with the west."
Everyone nodded. Bankotsu instructed, "We should all turn in for the night, and head out at first light." Everyone once again agreed.
Inuyasha walked off to and rested against a tree with his sword in his arm against his chest. Koga walked off to rest with his wolves, as did Ginta and Hakkaku. Bankotsu walked off to rest with his back against a tree, sitting up with his Banryu against his shoulder and an arm around it much like Inuyasha was holding his sword.
Kitty walked over and stretched out beside Bankotsu with her Hiraiku within easy reach. Sango, Kagome, and Miroku, all slept in their sleeping bags around the fire. Suikotsu, Renkotsu, and Jakotsu, all slept on their blankets in a circle just off to the side of the camp fire's reach. Koga, Inuyasha, and Bankotsu stayed alert, in case of trouble as they did not trust the others completely, but rested all through the night.
The next day:
Inuyasha, Bankotsu, and Kouga, woke everyone up at first light. Everyone ate breakfast and prepared to leave. Inuyasha faced the groups demanding, "Everyone meet back at Kaede's village in a week. Now move out!"
Koga bristling glared at Inuyasha warning him, "Watch who you are ordering mutt!"
Koneko looked at Bankotsu informing him, "I know the location of Kaede's village. I can show you where it is when the time comes."
Bankotsu nodded. "Let's move out then." Turning to his men he added sternly, "Remember guys- no killing! We are only looking for information this time." Jakotsu pouted, Renkotsu said, "Boring" and Suikotsu nodded. Everyone split into their groups and set off.
With Inuyasha and his group:
Inuyasha stared Suikotsu dead in the eye and demanded, "You had better not go psycho on us, Suikotsu."
Suikotsu with the spiked hair glared at him and scoffed. "I wouldn't give you a reason to hurt my little sister." He'd come to admire Kitty very much and really did consider her his little sister.
Inuyasha returned his glare warning, "You'd better not!"
Kagome sighing heavily said, "Inuyasha, can't you be just a little nicer? We are all on the same side, after all." Inuyasha huffed, and they continued on their way north.
With Sango and co:
Sango felt a hand on her butt squeezing it. Reaching out she forcefully slapped Miroku across the face. Glaring at him she screeched, "Hentai!" with anger visible in her eyes.
Koga who'd been walking ahead, wincing spun around to face them and angrily grabbed Miroku by the collar growling annoyed, "Damn you, lech, stop it already. My ears are gonna bleed if this yelling keeps up." glaring into his eyes.
Sango embarrassed mumbled, "Sorry." looking away.
Koga looked at her and retorted, "Whatever, let's just keep going." as he dropped Miroku to the ground. Miroku got up wide-eyed dusting himself off, and they set off towards the west again. This time Koga walked beside Sango, and Miroku was ahead of them so Koga could keep the monk in line.
With Jakotsu and co:
Jakotsu was walking and whined pitifully, "I would have rather gone with my sweet Inuyasha."
Renkotsu glaring at him snapped annoyed, "Shut the hell up already, Jakotsu." He'd been listening to Jakotsu whine about Inuyasha most of the day and was sick of it.
Jakotsu turned to glare at him snapping angrily, "You shut up Renkotsu."
Ginta looking at them both like they were nuts queried, "Uh guys, don't you think we should concentrate on the village up ahead, instead of bickering?"
Jakotsu and Renkotsu both turned to glare at him yelling, "Shut up!"
Ginta shrugging walked on ahead. A few minutes later they came across the village. A few meters away, Ginta faced his companions asking, "So who's gonna go scout around? I can't, because I am a demon and they will clam up from fear."
Renkotsu sighed saying, "I will. Jakotsu, stay here and behave." He really didn't like having to work alone with Jakotsu and his constant innuendoes.
Jakotsu pouting like an impudent child retorted, "You can't tell me what to do, Renkotsu." Defying the bald man who seemed to think he could boss everyone around. "Really why does Bankotsu even leave him as second in command?" he thought pouting.
Renkotsu had already walked into the village and approached a woman that was outside hanging the laundry. He snapped, "Wench! Tell me what's been happening around here?"
She spun around to see who had spoken so harshly and eyes wide with fear ran to her husband afraid of the stranger. He walked out to Renkotsu then looking him in the eye questioned, "You are new here, right?"
Renkotsu looking at him answered, "Yeah, passing through actually, looking for an old friend."
The husband mentioned, "My wife tells me you were asking about what's been happening here."
Renkotsu became annoyed snapping, "Yeah I did, so spit it out already!"
The husband looked at him and said, "Nothing, now leave and don't come back or I will send the guards after you."
Renkotsu stormed back over to the others proclaiming, "That was a big waste of time. Let's go!" So they set off again.
With Bankotsu and co:
Hakkaku stopped. Facing Bankotsu he announced, "There is a village nearby. I can smell humans and lots of them."
Kitty also stopping questioned, "Who is gonna scout for info?" looking from one to the other.
Bankotsu stopping responded, "I am. If they don't want to tell me, then I will make them tell me." with an evil glint in his eyes.
Kitty seeing the look rolled her eyes grumbling, "Sheesh Ban, you should really try being nicer to people. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Forget it; I will go with you to make sure you aren't so harsh with these poor people."
Bankotsu scowling at her argued, "I don't need a woman butting into my affairs!" feeling slightly perturbed.
Kitty crossing her arms in front of her chest, narrowed her gaze at him retorting, "And this woman doesn't need a pig headed man scaring off potential leads." Without waiting for a response she turned on her heel and walked toward the village, leaving behind a stunned Hakkaku and a fuming Bankotsu.
At the village:
She walked into the village and started looking around. A villager spotted her and not recognizing her walked over and greeted, "Hey beautiful, you're new here, aren't you?"
She turned to face him smiling and replied, "Just passing through, really. I was wondering what news this town has?" tilting her head.
He smiled suggesting, "Have a drink with me, and I can fill you in on everything about this village."
Kitty smiling charmingly countered, "I don't drink. But I will pay for you a drink, if you give me the latest news."
The man thinking this over said, "Sure thing, sweetheart." eying her with obvious interest.
Bankotsu walked up looking at the man. "Hey pal she's already taken, so watch it." he warned wrapping his arm around her waist possessively, pulling her against him.
The man appeared shocked by the open display. He looked at Kitty and responded, "Oh well, how 'bout that drink, doll?"
Bankotsu still looking at the man said, "Sure, let's go babe." Taking Kitty's hand he dragged her into the tavern with him and the villager. He walked over to an empty table and ordered sake, as did the villager. Kitty paid then turned to the man and queried sweetly, "Now, about the news?"
The man smiled responding, "Ah yes, well the headman's daughter had a baby boy recently and the priestess is missing."
Kitty frowning questioned, "How long has the priestess been missing?"
The man replied, "A week now. Rumor has it that she went into the woods and was attacked by a hoard of demons. But no one knows for certain." finishing with a shrug.
Kitty began feeling uneasy and looked around cautiously trying to pinpoint whatever had set off her internal radar, while the men conversed. Bankotsu out of the corner of his eye noticed her unease and continued to question the man. "Where at in the woods?"
The man answered, "About ten miles south of here. She has been gone a week and hasn't been seen or heard from since."
Kitty turning her attention back to the men queried, "Why did she go to the woods alone?"
The man replied, "All the guards were off dealing with an army of invaders from the lord of the castle from the south. He has been trying to take this village and enslave us for the last few months. Rumor has it he has allied himself with a powerful demon."
Bankotsu eager for a challenging battle as always perked up and demanded, "Where do I find this castle and lord?"
The man answered, "Twenty miles south of here. But beware, if he has allied his self with demons- he won't be easy to defeat."
Bankotsu laughed boasting, "I can defeat him and his demons, no sweat." grinning proudly.
Kitty looking at Bankotsu corrected, "You mean we! We're a team, remember?" Bankotsu and Kitty exchanged stubborn looks.
The man's eyes widened in shock and he stated, "Surely no man would put such a beauty in harm's way?"
Kitty faced the man smiling and replied, "Relax, I'm a demon slayer after all."
The man questioned confused, "I thought the slayers village was destroyed years ago?"
Kitty nodding, confirmed, "Correct but a few of us survived, and are still doing what we are trained for." She threw the man a few gold coins on the table and said, "Next drink is on us."
The man grinned bemoaning, "Alas a beautiful slayer and generous as well. Too bad you are taken." eyeing her one more with interest.
Bankotsu cast the man one last warning glance and stood up pulling Kitty along behind him. They left the tavern and the village walking over to Hakkaku, who was told what they had managed to find out.
With Hakkaku:
Bankotsu looked at them seriously suggesting, "We should head for the castle at first light."
Kitty agreed. "Yes, but along the way we must try to find the place where this priestess was last said to be. If a hoard of demons did attack, then something is very wrong here."
Bankotsu sighing heavily said in bored voice, "Fine, but only because it's along the way."
Kitty nodded. Hakkaku confused queried, "Why would a priestess go off into the woods alone?"
Kitty looked at Hakkaku responding, "That is what I intend to find out." eyes shining with determination.
Bankotsu suggested, "We should take a room in the village for the night."
Kitty shook her head adamantly. She informed him, "No Ban, I don't think that is a wise move. Something about that place seemed a little...off to me. I have learned to trust those feelings."
After a moment she added, "I think we should camp out away from the village. That man seemed okay, but something in the tavern was very wrong."
Bankotsu looked into their eyes acknowledging, "I had noticed you looking around a bit uneasy, and wondered what was up."
Kitty spoke puzzled, "Something is very wrong here. No priestess in her right mind would ever go into the woods alone, let alone for a week." Deciding it best to warn them she added, "I felt evil in the atmosphere in the tavern but couldn't pin point it. I don't like this guys- something is definitely wrong in that village!"
Hakkaku looking at her added, "I feel it too, even from here I can feel an evil presence."
Bankotsu searched their eyes a moment thinking things over and ordered, "Let's go then!"
Kitty agreed, "Let's start heading towards the castle. A few hours of daylight are still left."
Bankotsu approved, "Good, I hate wasting time." Everyone moved out staying very alert while heading toward the spot where the priestess was rumored to have disappeared.
Elsewhere:
"My lord, what shall we do about the villagers?" Sasha asked while looking at, the before mentioned man.
"Sasha, have you anything to report then?" queried the Lord of the castle of the south, Nenji.
"Yes my lord. Today a strange woman showed up, and asked a villager about the priestess. She had a strange man with her as well." responded Sasha.
Nenji stared her in the eye saying, "I see. Sasha, what exactly did the villager tell them?"
Sasha who'd hidden her presence in the tavern, replied, "Everything about the priestess missing, where she was last seen and the rumors concerning you and a demon's alliance."
Nenji grew angry demanding, "Bring this villager to me at once!"
Sasha bowing said, "As you command, my lord." She left to carry out his orders.
Nenji paced angrily and demanded, "Mushi! Report to Madame at once. Tell her we may have a problem." Mushi bowed and left to do as he had been ordered.
With Inuyasha and co again:
Inuyasha sniffed the air growling as his eyes narrowed, drawing his sword. "Kagura..." Kagome drew her bow and notched an arrow preparing for an attack.
Kagura emerged from above the tree tops. She looked at them saying, "Inuyasha, your nose is as strong as ever, I see."
Inuyasha glaring at her demanded, "What the hell do you want?"
Kagura responded urgently, "Shut up and listen! I haven't much time! Naraku is after the priestess."
Inuyasha became concerned yelling, "Kikyo?" he should have known Naraku would be after her again.
Kagura snorted. "Not that clay pot, the other one." staring at him as if he were stupid.
Kagome's eyes widened and she came to a realization. She said softly, "Koneko..."
Kagura staring her in the eye replied, "Yes, that one! He has set a trap, which she and her group are walking right into. He intends to take control of her and her powers. Go quickly to the south. Do not waste any more time! Head towards the castle and avoid the village where he has spies. Now go. If he finds out my part in this he will kill me, I must go." with that she immediately flew off.
Suikotsu stared Inuyasha dead in the eye informing him determinedly, "We must save little sister!" his blood boiled at the thought that Naraku might harm his sister.
Kagome turned to Inuyasha adding panicked, "Quickly, Inuyasha!"
Inuyasha nodded kneeling down and said, "Climb on, Kagome!" Kagome climbed on Inuyasha's back and they took off towards the south.
With Koga and co:
Koga looking anxious announced, "There's someone close by." his nose never lied.
Miroku added, "It's a demonic aura." Sango readied her Hiraikotsu preparing for battle.
Sesshomaru appeared out of the trees facing them and demanded, "What are you doing in my lands?" his golden gaze studied all that were present.
Sango faced him replying, "Scouting for rumors of Naraku and any other information we can find."
Sesshomaru blankly informed her, "He is in the south. That is where I am headed now."
Miroku looked at him asking, "How do you know this?" curious as to why Sesshomaru would be bothered by such news.
Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes warning, "Do not dare to question this Sesshomaru again human, or you shall pay the price for your insolence."
Koga immediately exclaimed, "Shit! Koneko is in the south with that weakling human. Hakkaku won't be much better in a fight. We must get to her fast!" without waiting for a response Koga whirl winded off towards the south.
Sango yelled, "Bankotsu is not an easy opponent!" but Koga was already gone.
Sesshomaru turned to Sango demanding coolly, "Why would the priestess, be working with Naraku's pawn?"
Miroku holding his gaze answered, "To sum it up, the remaining Band of Seven are human again and are now our allies- Koneko's doing of course, the ally thing."
Sango added, "Koneko, Bankotsu, and Hakkaku went to the south."
Sesshomaru took action demanding, "We must hurry then, move out." He summoned his cloud beneath him and took off towards the south without waiting for the others.
Sango said, "Kirara, let's go." Kirara obediently transformed and Sango and Miroku both confused by Sesshomaru's urgency, climbed onto her back and she took off towards the south.
Back at the castle in the south:
"My lord, I have brought the villager as you commanded." said Sasha while holding the scared villager.
Nenji mentioned, "Very well, Sasha you may leave for now." Sasha bowed and took her leave. Nenji faced the villager demanding coldly, "You, tell me everything you told the woman and man today or I will make you suffer terribly." with a malice filled glare.
The villager's eyes wide with fear and he stammered, "Pl...Please don't hurt me."
Nenji firmly demanded, "Speak, now!" The villager nodded and repeated everything he had told the couple. Nenji asked, "Tell me of this woman, what did she say, of her and her companion?"
The villager replied, "She claimed to be a demon slayer and he claimed to be able to beat you and the demons no sweat. He looked quite strong, and his hair was in a long braid. Her hair was as long as his but in a high ponytail, and I remember thinking she was quite a beauty."
Nenji raised a brow and queried, "And their names?" if they were the one's his master had mentioned, he'd need to inform him.
The villager held his gaze and said, "They never mentioned them."
Nenji in disbelief scoffed and yelled, "You expect me to believe they talked with you, and never once mentioned each other's names?"
The villager answered nervously, "It's the truth, sire." shaking with fear.
Nenji narrowed his gaze and yelled, "Sasha!" his face was red with anger.
Sasha appeared and said coolly, "Yes my lord?"
Nenji faced her ordering, "Dispose of this lout- Immediately."
The villager panicked yelling, "No please! I have told you everything, I swear it!"
Nenji waved his hand and Sasha dragged the screaming villager into the woods where killed him with a fist through his stomach. Sasha returned and informed Nenji, "It is done, milord." as she lapped the blood from her fist.
Nenji replied, "Good!" watching her lick the blood increased his need to release his frustrations. He ordered, "Now, get to my chambers and make ready for me. I shall join you soon." staring at her generous cleavage.
Sasha grinned saying, "Aye milord, I shall await you." She walked off to his chambers undressed climbing into bed, eagerly awaiting her lord and lover's arrival.
With Mushi:
He'd reported to the mistress as his lord had commanded. A dark figure dressed in dark blue and purple robes said coolly, "See to it that the village is taken care of. I must see this for myself." She quickly gathered her few items and left the building, melding into the shadows. Walking towards the mountain she thought, "Soon Kikyo… soon you and I will have out little rematch, and that little reincarnation of yours, will get what's coming to her as well."
Mushi quickly left to do her biding. Upon arriving at the village Mushi went straight to the tavern and ordered his mistress's servants, to take care of all the villagers that were not loyal to his mistress.
The guards nodded and began interrogating the villagers one by one. The ones not already in their mistress's powers were dealt with efficiently. The guards then piled up the bodies and dug a huge cavern big enough to dump all of the deceased into. They filled the whole and returned to the tavern, where they drank themselves into a stupor, celebrating a job well done.
Mushi went to report to his lord, but seeing that his was nowhere in sight and guessing that he was busy Mushi decided to wait until morning to inform his lord of the condition of the village he'd hoped to claim.
With Nenji:
Nenji entered his chambers and ordered, "On your knees Sasha." She immediately obeyed moving into position. Nenji seriously full of seriously pent up frustration shoved her over the bed and discarded his clothing in record time. Moving behind her he began nibbling on her shoulder. Sasha smiled knowing she had a pleasant night in stored for her and her lover.
Author's Note: Okay guys and gals there is chapter five please remember to read and review thanks.