Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha! I do own Koneko AKA Kitty, my other OC's and the plot and story line... There. I said it. (sighs)

"Talking"

"Thinking"

Scene change...

Chapter 6:


With Bankotsu and co:

Kitty felt a few different auras as well as the jewel shards heading towards them and exclaimed, "Bankotsu, I sense the sacred jewel! There is also a very powerful demonic aura heading directly for us!" Bankotsu nodded and everyone immediately prepared for battle.

Hakkaku sniffing exclaimed happily, "Koga!" as he waited for his comrade.

Kitty looked at him adding, "Not just him. I haven't felt this presence in a long time." with serious eyes.

She notched an arrow as the wind picked up and a lightning bolt struck the ground. When the smoke cleared, Sesshomaru stood facing the trio. Noticing Kitty's arrow he drawled amused, "Now, is that anyway to greet an old acquaintance?"

Koneko staring him in the eye responded evenly, "Acquaintance huh? That's the only thing you can say to me after all this time?" Sesshomaru shrugged. Kitty scoffed saying in a fake hurt voice, "And after I painstakingly saved your life all those years ago too. Humph, some friend you are." Kitty huffed putting her bow and arrow away.

Sesshomaru smirking held her gaze, then queried, "Why do I find you with these fools?" in a cool voice.

Kitty held his gaze correcting evenly, "Not fools, Sesshomaru- friends." adding slightly amused, "So don't worry so much."

Sesshomaru questioned evenly, "What makes you think this Sesshomaru cares, wench?"

Kitty walked towards Sesshomaru. "Aw! You can't fool me Sesshu. You came because you were worried about me." hearing his grunt of response. "How sweet of you." she added leaning over to lightly peck his cheek.

Sesshomaru growled, then smirked shaking his head. He looked into her eyes. "Sassy as ever, I see. I'd hoped you would have outgrown that by now." he scolded lightly.

Kitty scoffed. "Bite your tongue, Sesshy-kun!"

Sesshomaru informed her amused; "Only you ever get away with speaking to me that familiarly."

Kitty replied, "Of course, after all you find yourself amused by this mere mortal woman." laughter twinkling in her eyes.

Sesshomaru chuckled. Unexpectedly he picked her up in a bear hug causing her to squirm. He lightly deposited her on her feet. Staring into her warm caramel eyes he questioned, "So sister of my heart, tell me why you are with Naraku's pawn?" She giggled hugging him back.

Bankotsu raised a brow, gazing from one to the other and back again before querying evenly, "I take it you two are friends?"

Sesshomaru looked at him and replied evenly, "This Sesshomaru only has one human he will ever tolerate such insolence from, or consider a friend and it is this wench."

Kitty retorted evenly, "This woman only allows one being to refer to her as a wench and it is this Sesshy-kun!" She lightly placed her hand on his arm and looked him dead in the eye informing him seriously, "Now to answer your question, Bankotsu and the others no longer work for Naraku. He tried to kill them many times and after they became humans again, they quit obeying his orders. They are now working with your obnoxious brother, his friends, the wolves, and I, to bring that bastard down!"

Sesshomaru smirked at 'obnoxious' and queried, "Why would you ally yourselves together?"

Kitty smiling replied, "For starters, Ban saved my life many times when he didn't have to."

Sesshomaru raised a brow and demanded, "Ban? Tell me; just how close are you two?"

Bankotsu smirking informed Sesshomaru smugly, "We are lovers." Sesshomaru stared at Kitty with a brow raised questioningly and Kitty grinned blushing, as she nodded her confirmation.

Sesshomaru was shocked and speechless for a moment. Raising a brow he asked coolly, "When did this happen?" his amber gaze now hardened.

Kitty laughed answering evenly, "Some time ago, so calm yourself, Sesshy-kun. You are starting to actually let your emotions show through." she teased with eyes full of laughter.

Sesshomaru scowled, staring Bankotsu dead in the eye and warned, "If you hurt her- I will hunt you down." while flexing his claws.

Bankotsu smirking assured, "I have no intentions of hurting her, ever."

Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes at Bankotsu a moment longer. Kitty announced, "The sacred jewel shards are approaching fast."

Bankotsu readied his Banryu asking, "How many?" while gazing into his lover's eyes.

Kitty looked him in the eye answering, "Lots of them." Stiffening her spine with and hand on the katana at her waist preparing for battle.

Sesshomaru informed evenly, "A demon hoard approaches us." Kitty nodded and releasing her katana prepared her bow and arrows.

Koga's whirlwind appeared a foot away from the trio. Koga looked at Kitty saying relieved, "Koneko, Thank goodness! The others are on the way." She nodded.

Hearing the demons screeching, everyone faced towards the approaching demon hoard, ready to do battle. A big bear demon spotted Kitty and growled, "Ah, another priestess. It has been some weeks, since I have dined on a priestess. You will be my appetizer."

Licking its chops hungrily it started towards Koneko. She jumped into the air releasing her Hiraiku, and it sailed towards the bear demon. It jumped out of the path of her weapon, and resumed its path towards her.

Bankotsu was busy slashing through tons of demons with his Banryu. Koga was kicking and clawing demons as well. All around them hunks of demonic flesh squished, some even writing and a thick ooze of demonic blood lay strewn on the ground, with more demons coming.

Sesshomaru used his poison whip across the bear demon's back ordering coolly, "Stop picking on the miko and face a real opponent, you weakling." He poison whipped the bear three more times very quickly. It growled angrily turning to face Sesshomaru launching itself at him.

Kitty fired sacred arrows one after another destroying demon after demon. When her Hiraiku returned, she jumped up in the air catching it like a pro. Bankotsu sliced two more demons in half with his Banryu, quickly turning around halfway slicing through another one and jumped into the air landing next to Kitty. She looked at him panting and warned him, "Heads up!" Bankotsu swung down his Banryu slicing another demon in half.

Kitty and Bankotsu fought together back to back destroying any demons that dared approach them. Sesshomaru drove his poison claws right through the chest of the bear demon, yanking his fist back out. The bear fell dead at his feet. He quickly looked for and located Kitty and Bankotsu fighting back to back. Pulling out Tokijin he yelled, "Dragon strike!" as lighting evaporated the next group of demons who'd been charging at him.

Bankotsu's arm snaked around grabbing Kitty by the waist. She dropped Hiraiku and held on to his waist with both hands. Jumping into the air he yelled, "Dragon Thunder!" stabbing his Banryu into the earth and levitated up into the sky. Storm clouds began to form around them and he called lightning into his Banryu. The lightning shot up from Banryu in a huge illuminating ball of electricity shooting into the sky and sent a torrent of lightning bolts raining onto the ground, unleashing them at random points.

Lightning bolts started raining from the sky and falling everywhere. Sesshomaru was unaffected. Koga using his speed dodged most of the lighting, and the remaining demons were quickly vanquished.

After the storm died down, Bankotsu lowered himself and Kitty to the ground gently positioning her on her feet. Kitty released her hold on his waist and collected her gigantic boomerang. She turned to Bankotsu suggesting, "We'd better collect these shards." moving around to do so. When something pierced her skin, a very sharp pain ran up her arm and she let out a blood curdling scream.

Bankotsu, Koga, and Sesshomaru, all ran over to her. Bankotsu clearly worried demanded, "What is it?" staring into her eyes.

Kitty looking into her lover's eyes said breathlessly, "My...my arm, som...something pierced my arm." as she tried to hold her wounded appendage.

Sesshomaru immediately laid her back on the ground and began to examine her arm, holding it up he saw the wound and two stingers digging into her skin. He instantly ripped out the stingers causing her to scream again and melted them in his hand, then proceeded to draw out the poison.

He hissed angrily, "That coward will pay for this. You hear me, Naraku? You are dead, you filthy wretch!" Sesshomaru facing the concerned and confused men informed them grimly, "Naraku's poisonous insects have injected a deadly miasma into her. I am drawing out what I can, but she will still be very sick for a while."

Sango and Miroku arrived on Kirara and joined the others demanding, "What happened?" while gazing at the injured Kitty and Sesshomaru kneeling beside her.

Koga began pacing and growled angrily, "Naraku's insects poisoned her."

Seconds later Inuyasha showed up with Kagome on his back. Kagome jumped off his back and ran over to Kitty. She looked at Sango noticing her friend's frown she asked, "What happened?"

Sango looked at her sadly and replied dejectedly, "Naraku has poisoned her." staring back at her injured companion.

Kagome gasped horrified. Inuyasha growled, "Damn him." Clenching the hilt of his sword and baring his fangs.

Kitty stuttered, "K...Kagome, the shards they s...still need t...to be c...collected, b...but, be careful." Kagome nodded and walking around finished collecting the shards with Inuyasha beside her.

Sesshomaru faced Bankotsu and said evenly; "I have done all I can now. Bind her wounds and make sure she is protected. Someone must be by her at all times, until she has fully recovered." Standing to his feet he moved off toward the main battlefield.

Kagome hearing this walked over and cleaned and bandaged the wounds. Kitty looking at her said, "Thanks." before she laid her head back and relaxed. Bankotsu gently knelt beside her and picked her up. After standing back up, he carried her to a nearby cave with the others following.

Sesshomaru walked over to her Hiraiku, collected it and carried it to the cave. He faced the group and informed them evenly, "I must go and retrieve the medicine she needs." Knowing how stubborn she could be, he stared at Kitty and demanded, "I will return, so you had better stay alive."

Kitty smirking replied, "Yes Sesshy-kun." amused that he'd scold her even when wounded. Bankotsu laid her down on a blanket at the back of the cave. He set his Banryu against the wall of the cave then sat down pulling her into his lap. Cathy said softly, "Ban, I'm sorry this will slow us down a bit."

Bankotsu said grumpily, "Once you are better, we will hunt that bastard down, until then woman hush and rest." Kitty smiled snuggling into him as she rested.

Outside the cave:

Inuyasha began pacing and fumed, "Damn it! We should attack now while we know how to find him." clenching his fist beside him as he glared at everyone who was sitting down being lazy.

Sango stared and informed him succinctly, "It wouldn't do any good seeing as night has already fallen and he knows we are in the area already."

Miroku staring at him added, "Besides we must wait for Lady Koneko to be at full strength again."

Kagome looked at Inuyasha and reminded him, "She isn't even able to travel safely until she gets that medicine, which Sesshomaru has gone after, and he doesn't even like humans."

Inuyasha stopped pacing frowned and asked, "Why though, why would Sesshomaru concern himself over a human? He hates humans." snorting the last part.

Hakkaku looked at him supplying, "From what they said earlier, Koneko and Sesshomaru have like a brother and sister kind of relationship. Apparently she saved his life years ago. Judging by how he reacted when he found out about her and Bankotsu being lovers, I would say he definitely considers her the sister of his heart- that he'd called her earlier."

Koga hearing this jumped up growling and demanded angrily, "So they are lovers after all!?" fury in his eyes.

Bankotsu walked out smirking and informed Koga smugly, "You're damn right we are!" Looking at Sango he informed her, "Taijiya, she is asking for water."

Sango nodded and said evenly, "It's Sango, not Taijiya." taking the bucket she went to the river to collect some water and returned. She handed the pail to Bankotsu. He nodded and took it into Kitty. Kneeling beside her he helped her drink. Kitty looked at him and said, "Thanks."

Bankotsu nodded and softly ordered her, "Now go to sleep." Kitty exhausted smiled and obeyed. Bankotsu walked back outside and announced, "She is sleeping for now." everyone nodded thinking that was best for her.

Kirara mewled and ran inside the cave and curled up next to Kitty. Sango followed Kirara smiling and questioned softly, "You've missed her as well, haven't you Kirara?" Kirara looking at her mistress mewled. Sango nodded. Walking back outside she rejoined the others smiling.

Kagome seeing this, queried her, "What has you so happy, Sango?"

Sango looking at her replied, "Kitty is back safe and Kirara is snuggled up to her, just her like old times."

Kagome smiled nodding. Hearing this Bankotsu looked at Sango and queried evenly, "So, your cat demon is snuggled to my woman, huh?" uncertain whether or not he liked that.

Sango looked at him and said grinning, "Yup, just like when we were kids."

Bankotsu figuring it couldn't hurt for one night, sighed grumbling, "I suppose this means that I will have to remove that fuzz ball before I lay down tonight?"

Sango laughed and answered grinning, "I doubt she would let you. Kirara has always thought of Kitty as a second owner and is very protective of her."

Bankotsu sighing heavily grimaced. He stood up and walked into the cave looking at his lover sleeping with the 'fuzz ball' curled into her side. She looked so peaceful he didn't have the heart to wake her. Shaking his head he walked back out. Bankotsu rejoined the group sitting back down and smiled saying sweetly, "Aw well, I guess it couldn't hurt for just one night, she looked so content sleeping there." with softer eyes.

Suikotsu a little shocked at how easily Bankotsu had changed his mind, looked at him and teased, "Watch it big brother, or people will start to think you have gone soft."

Bankotsu faced him and growled and replied, "I am still the leader of the Shichinintai brother. Do not mistake my feelings towards Kitty for weakness. I can still beat the hell out of anyone I choose to."

Suikotsu threw up his hands defensively and said, "No need to get defensive, big brother. I was merely saying that because of Renkotsu. We both know, he..."

Bankotsu glaring cut him off before he informed Suikotsu dead seriously, "I know! He will be dealt with soon enough." clenching his fist tightly on his knee.

Koga snagged Bankotsu's gaze and asked smugly, "Trouble in your group, Bankotsu?" You'd never hear of trouble in his pack, nope.

Bankotsu glared at him snapping angrily, "It doesn't concern you, mangy wolf!" sending a clearly unspoken warning to butt out.

Sango, getting fed up with their bickering, demanded angrily, "Enough! Sheesh! You two really do act like children. Koneko needs to recover so you two had better quiet down, or so help me I will kick your asses myself!" her own temper coming to the surface.

Koga scoffed before turning away. Bankotsu chuckled and looking at Sango's face, mentioned amused, "Must be a Taijiya trait." shaking his head bemused.

Miroku looked from one to the other and warned, "Quit while you two are ahead, Sango can be mean when mad and uses her Hiraikotsu as a beating stick." slight fear in his eyes.

Sango narrowed her gaze at Miroku growling and warned him, "Monk..." Miroku's eyes widened fearfully as he gulped nervously and started backing away from Sango, who was still glaring at him dangerously.

Bankotsu smirked thinking, "Yup, got to be a Taijiya trait." and everyone else laughed at the display between Miroku and Sango.

Inuyasha standing up said, "Okay, enough already." Turning to face the wolf he growled, "Koga, you and I are going to hunt for dinner! Kagome, you and Sango get the water and stuff ready."

Bankotsu needing something to take his mind of his worry for his woman, stood to his feet adding, "I will collect some fire wood. Suikotsu, you stay here with Kitty." Suikotsu nodded and everyone did as told.

Ten minutes later Kagome and Sango had the water ready and the cooking circle of rocks. Five minutes after that Bankotsu returned with his arms full of firewood and dropped it onto the ground at the girls' feet. Without a word he collected his Banryu walking over to the river and used the water to clean the blood off the blade. He walked back over sitting down on a fallen log and began polishing his Banryu, as was his custom when needing to relax.

Suikotsu walked out of the cave also needing to relax, thoroughly cleaned his claws. Kagome started the fire and started boiling the water and herbs mixture. Ten minutes later Inuyasha returned with rabbits and threw them at Kagome's feet. She added them to the pot and let them boil. Koga carried a boar and threw it down by his wolves and Hakkaku and all the wolves ate.



Chow time:



After the stew had finished cooking Kagome scooped up a bowl. Walked over to Bankotsu she held it out and mentioned, "Koneko should at least try to eat."

Bankotsu thinking it over nodded taking the bowel. He stood up and walked over to the entrance before entering the cave. Walking towards his sleeping lover he stated, "Hey there fuzz ball, she needs to eat." Staring at the cat demon, which was currently nuzzled next to his woman.

Kirara mewled her acknowledgement jumped up and nudged Kitty to wake her up. Kitty stirred looking at Kirara she queried, "Kirara? What are you doing here?" as she blinked wondering why the cat had woke her up.

Kirara staring at her licked her cheek and mewled. Bankotsu mentioned amused, "Apparently, she is your new bodyguard."

Kitty laughed snuggling Kirara loosely and informed her happily, "I've missed you too, girl!" Kirara mewled happily. Kitty carefully placed her beside her hip and looked up at Bankotsu who stood in front of her. She smiled at him. Bankotsu placed the bowel down. Kneeling beside her he helped Kitty sit up and handed her the bowl. She smiled saying, "Thanks, Ban."

He grunted and suggested evenly, "You should try to eat- to keep up your strength."

Kitty nodded and slowly ate the food then set the bowl down. She looked over at Bankotsu saying sadly, "You know Ban; you don't have to stay here if you don't want to." He sighed heavily. Kitty added, "I refuse to be a burden to anyone." as she laid back down and needing comfort cuddled Kirara really closely.

Bankotsu sighed heavily and quipped, "I never said you were a burden!" glaring at her for even thinking it. He really hated when she got like this, it had nearly driven him nuts the last time.

Kitty looked at him a little sad and replied softly, "I sure feel like one! I hate being immobilized." Every time she wasn't able to be up and moving, she felt useless and like a burden. She hated that feeling most of all! She'd become sad and gloomy then pout.

Bankotsu looked into her beautiful amber eyes chuckling at her pout and responded amused, "It hasn't even been a full day yet and you're bored already, eh babe?"

Kitty replied frustratedly, "You know it! I hate not being able to move. I hate being sick, or wounded to where I can't move- period." She clutched Kirara a little closer.

Bankotsu chuckled again before saying soothingly, "Relax, Sesshomaru should return soon enough and then you will get better much faster." as he moved to sit beside her leaning over her.

Kitty sighed heavily and exclaimed, "Ugh, I hope so!" she couldn't wait to get better.

Bankotsu leaned down and gave her a brief kiss on the lips. Pulling back he whispering in her ear suggested, "Sleep now, my little vixen." Kitty still worn out closed her eyes sighing. Making sure she'd obeyed he moved back gathering the bowl and stood up leaving the cave.

Outside the cave:



Bankotsu stepped over to the others and handed the bowel to Kagome informing her, "She ate the entire bowel and is now sleeping again."

Kagome accepted the empty bowel nodding and replied, "That's good. Now let's just hope she sleeps well enough tonight."

Koga grinned slyly and suggested smugly, "I could always sleep beside her to keep her warm." amusement in his eyes.

Bankotsu whirled to face him and looked him dead in the eye. He informed him seriously, "That is not going to happen, wolf boy! She is my woman! I will be the one to keep her warm." glaring angrily at the bothersome wolf.

Inuyasha snorted and suggested, "Give it up already, Koga! Just run back to Ayame, If she is even willing to still have you."

Koga scoffed and retorted, "Forget it, mutt face! Maybe I will just sleep beside my beautiful Kagome instead." as he turned his gaze to Kagome.

Inuyasha jumped to his feet glaring at Koga. He growled and yelled, "No way in hell, wolf!" anger evident in his golden orbs as he moved towards the wolf in a threatening manner.

Kagome sighed heavily and while looking from one to the other stated dead seriously, "The only one sleeping by me tonight is Sango! Now both of you shut up!" she was growing sick of them fighting over her like some stupid chew toy.

Inuyasha and Koga sat down and continued to glare at each other. Kagome and Sango decided to proceed to bed down with their backs to each other. Miroku after casting a longing glance toward the girls stretched out next to the fire. Suikotsu was on guard duty for the night. Bankotsu knowing he'd be sleeping next to his Kitty chuckled and mentioned evenly, "Night all." winking at the group as he said this then spun around and walked over to the cave and snickered at the wolf before walking inside the cave.

With Kitty:



Bankotsu glanced over and saw the 'fuzz ball' still cuddled to his lover and sighed heavily. He approached the cat demon staring at it. He said evenly, "Okay fuzz ball, you can stay for tonight- but you gotta stay on your side," as he gently but firmly pushed the cat to a new spot so he could lie beside his lover.

He lay down beside Kitty stretching out and wrapped his arm around her waist laying his head on her chest listening to her slowed heartbeat. Kitty sighed in contentment and instinctively wrapped her arms around him. Bankotsu smiled to himself and held her close. He closed his eyes and was asleep in minutes. Kirara now sure he wouldn't hurt her charge mewled and moved to snuggle up by their heads.

The next morning:



Bankotsu woke up, and stretched. Kitty yawned and said, "Morning, Ban." Bankotsu moved to a seated position and gently pulled her into his lap before kissing the top of her head. She snuggled into him and queried, "Sleep well?"

He gazed at her and his eyes softened as he replied, "Yeah, you?" He'd always slept well when they were together.

She responded, "I always do when you hold me." snuggling deeper into his chest.

He smiled and informed her, "Suikotsu will want to sleep soon, guess I should go relieve him."

Kitty sighed reluctantly and said, "Okay," before hugging him. Bankotsu hugged her back then kissed her passionately which she gladly returned. He broke the kiss and helped her lay back down before he stood to his feet. She looked at him staying, "See ya later." He nodded and walked out of the cave.

About twenty minutes later:



Kagome brought in a bowl of berries and nuts. She greeted her friend, "Morning, Koneko. Here you should eat." as she held out the bowl.

Kitty smiled and responded, "Morning, Kagome, and thanks." as she accepted the bowl gratefully. Kagome nodded and sat down watching to make sure Kitty ate. Kitty finished eating and handed her back the bowl complaining, "Man, I am so bored."

Kagome laughed and suggested, "I bet! Maybe I can find something for you to do." Kitty's eyes lit up at the prospect and she smiled.

Kagome walked out of the cave and came back bringing Sango with her. Sango walked over to Kitty and questioned, "Hey Koneko, I hear you're already bored?"

Kitty nodded and looked at her replying seriously, "You know me- always on the move."

Sango laughed and agreed, "Yup. I remember when we were training even after father told us to stop and rest, you still had to get a few more minutes in before he made you stop."

Kitty smiled adding, "Yup, I like being in the open and moving around." sighing longingly as she stared out the entrance.

Kagome suggested, "We could have one of the guys carry you out into the fresh air. But, you have to promise not to do anything to reopen your arm, and if you start feeling sick- you have to tell us immediately."

Kitty looked at Kagome smiling and nodded her agreement. Sango mentioned, "Alright, I will set up a spot for you under the tree then."

Kitty looked at Sango smiling gratefully and said, "Thanks."

Sango smiled and nodded before leaving the cave.

Kagome walked back outside and a minute later she came back with Inuyasha in tow. She looked at him and requested, "Inuyasha, would you please carry Koneko out to the tree?" Inuyasha grumbled then after a glare from Kagome, sighed and gently lifted Cathy carrying her outside to the tree.

Outside the cave:



Inuyasha carried Kitty over to the tree and gently set her down on the blanket Sango had set up moments ago. Kitty looked at Inuyasha smiling and said gratefully, "Thanks Inuyasha."

Inuyasha mumbled, "Welcome." and walked away to sit back down by the fire and Kagome sat next to him. Sango sat with Kirara in her lap next to Kagome. Suikotsu was sleeping under another tree. Miroku scooted closer to Sango. Hakkaku, and Koga, looked up and noticing Cathy under the tree walked over to join her.

Hakkaku smiled at her and asked, "Hi Koneko, how ya feeling?" looking at her with concern in his grey eyes.

Kitty looked at Hakkaku smiling politely and responded, "Better thanks, and you?"

Hakkaku smiled answering, "I'm good." Koneko smiled and nodded.

Koga casually slung an arm over her shoulder smiling at her and stated, "It's good to see that you are healing fast, babe."

Kitty using her good arm to remove Kouga's glared at him and yelled, "Hey Casanova, keep your hands to yourself!" Koga chuckled and inched a tad closer. Kitty glared and warned him, "I may be injured, but I can still purify your ass wolf boy!"

Koga snickered at her outburst but backed off. Sango annoyed walked over scowling at Koga and demanded, "Leave her be you two!" Koga looked at Sango a minute then the wolves went back to sitting over by the rocks. Kirara ran over too and curled up into a tight little ball in Kitty's lap. Smiling Kitty looked at Kirara and began petting her fur.

One hour before sunset:



Bankotsu strolled into the camp and saw Kitty sitting beneath a tree. He stormed over looking into her eyes and queried, "Just what do you think you're doing?" She was told to rest, not be moving around!

Kitty looked up at him and replied evenly, "I needed some fresh air." before shrugging.

Bankotsu demanded, "How did you get out here? It better not have been..." starting to get annoyed at the thought of 'wolf boy' touching, yet alone holding her. His blue eyes began to look stormy- a sure sign his temper was rising.

Kitty noticed this and responded, "Inuyasha was kind enough to carry me." breathing a sigh of relief as she saw his temper become reigned in, as was visible in his clear blue eyes.

Bankotsu sighed and stated, "Well at least that's better than wolf boy! Next time, ask me and I will be more than happy to bring you out." staring into her eyes he thought, "Guess that wolf lives- for now." He wasglad she'd had enough sense to not allow that mangy wolf touch her. Kitty smiled and nodded. She questioned, "So, any news?"

Bankotsu sitting beside her, responded disappointedly, "Nothing yet." as he set his Banryu down close to him. Kitty nodded. Kagome walked over and placed bowls of food in front of them. They nodded saying thanks as they picked up their food and began to eat.

Finishing her food Kitty placed the bowl on the ground and mentioned, "At least I'm not stuck lying down anymore." relief in her voice ringing loud and clear.

Bankotsu gazed into her eyes smirking and suggested, "I can think of a rather… enjoyable way to pass the time laying down." with a suggestive look in his eyes as he wriggled his eye brows at her.

Kitty held his gaze and grinned replying, "Me too, but that wasn't what I meant."

Bankotsu held her gaze chuckling and moving over to her ear whispered huskily, "As well as other ways that I know you enjoy."

Kitty smiled leaning over kissing his neck and whispered huskily correcting, "That we enjoy!" Bankotsu chuckled and gently pulled her into his lap. He began tugging her bottom lip with his teeth.

She sighed and opened her mouth granting him access. He thrust his tongue into her mouth capturing hers. Their tongues dueled in a battle for dominance which eventually Bankotsu won just before he pulled back breaking the kiss, not wanting things to get out of hand without privacy. Kitty snuggled into his chest and smiled.

Miroku who had watched their little exchange cleared his throat loudly and grinned his perverted grin. Bankotsu stared at the others blankly. Kagome blushed embarrassed at seeing the exchange and looked at the group questioning, "I wonder when Sesshomaru will get back?"

Inuyasha snorted retorting, "Most likely when he damn well feels like it!"

Two minutes later:



Sesshomaru walked into the camp then gazed over to where Koneko was sitting and said, "I see you are up and about already."

Kitty gazed at him and replied, "I didn't walk, so don't worry. Inuyasha carried me out here because I asked."

Sesshomaru walked over and thrust a flower at Koneko. He commanded, "Eat! It will eradicate the rest of the miasma." Kitty nodded taking the flower and ate it.

Fifteen minutes later Bankotsu stood up with Kitty in his arms. Kitty implored him, "Put me down Ban, I will be fine now." Bankotsu gently deposited her on her feet and she stood up. She placed a brief kiss on Bankotsu's lips then turned and hugged Sesshomaru. She said, "Thank you."

Sesshomaru nodded staring into her eyes and ordered, "Now go and rest. We will set out at first light." Kitty nodded and bid goodnight to everyone. Bankotsu picked her up bridal style and carried her into the cave. Everyone else settled in for the night.

Inside the cave:



Bankotsu smiled and gently lowered Kitty to her feet. Kitty wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him fully on the lips. He smirked placing his hands on her full hips and drew her flush against him. She kissed his neck and jaw line. He captured her mouth in a hot possessive kiss and started to undress her slowly.

She slid off his shirt and started to work at his pants. He broke the kiss chuckling and purred huskily into her ear, "Not so fast, babe. I plan on taking my time with you." She smiled at him enticingly. He laid her back on the blanket and began trailing kisses all over her collar bone, neck, and naked breasts. He slowly and sensually worked his way back up to her mouth and they matched each other's passion.

A few hours later:



They lay entwined together sated, happy, and drifted off to sleep. The others outside the cave had been sleeping for a while now, except for Sesshomaru who was up in a tree keeping watch over the camp and gazing at the stars rather bored.

Next morning:



Kitty woke up and noticed Bankotsu still had his head on her chest. She smiled and absentmindedly began running her fingers through his thick and lush hair. He stirred and murmured, "Mmm, I love when you run your fingers through my hair." while embracing her.

She smiled saying, "Good because I love doing so, it's so relaxing." with a peaceful smile on her face.

Bankotsu raised his head to look into her eyes and asked, "How you feeling?" concern in his eyes.

Kitty looked into his gorgeous sapphire eyes and replied purring seductively, "Actually I'm feeling a bit… frisky this morning."

Bankotsu grinned and responded, "Oh really?" Kitty nodded while grinning. Bankotsu moved capturing her lips in a fierce kiss and rolled her over so she was on top of him.

Kitty broke the kiss laughing and gazed down at him informing him, "Seems I'm not the only one, eh?" as she trailed her finger along his tight abs.

Bankotsu gazed up at her with desire filled eyes and confirmed huskily, "You got that right, babe!" cupping her naked butt cheek. He leaned up and captured her mouth in another fierce kiss which she eagerly returned. They wrestled around pinning each other and laughing for about thirty minutes then made passionate love again and got dressed.

Kitty looked at him and mentioned, "Before the others awaken I want to go bathe." Bankotsu nodded and they quietly left the cave holding hands and walked off towards the river. Along the way they took in the lush and plentiful scenery. Kitty gazed at the vegetation and trees. When they arrived at the river they undressed then slipped into water and bathed in the river together.

When they finished bathing, they dried off in the sun and dressed before returning to the camp to find the others were all awake and eating breakfast. Sesshomaru had seen them walk off and figured they had bathed.

The lovers sat down and ate then everyone packed up and got ready to leave. Sesshomaru stated, "Koneko, it seems you have recovered almost completely." Kitty blushed and nodded. Sesshomaru said, "Good. Let's head out."

Bankotsu ordered, "Just a minute." He turned to Suikotsu and ordered, "I want you to head back and meet up with Ja and his group and tell them to head south- immediately." Suikotsu nodded and took off to do as he had been bidden.

Everyone else set off towards the castle. They still had another ten miles to go. Hakkaku and Miroku walked next to Bankotsu. Kagome traveled on Inuyasha's back. Sesshomaru lead the way. Koga did his whirlwind thing. Everyone had insisted Kitty ride Kirara with Sango, as she hadn't quite completely healed yet. All were alert and kept their eyes peeled for any signs of trouble.

Half way there Sesshomaru stopped and held up a hand silently commanding everyone else to stop. He faced the group and commanded, "Wait here, I will return shortly." Then he used his cloud and took off.

With the gang:

Kitty went to climb off Kirara and Bankotsu having seen this ran over to help her off. He gently held her by the waist and lifted her off Kirara's back and deposited her gently on her feet. She smiled at him while gazing into his deep blue orbs and thanked him.

Kagome frowned and queried, "I wonder why he had us stop?" as she sat down on the lush green grass and began to make a fire.

Kitty decided to stretch her stiff muscles a bit and began walking around. After a while she came across some remains and hollered, "Over here, guys!" Bankotsu was beside her side in an instant Banryu ready just in case.

Kitty pointed to the remains that lay on the torn up ground. He looked down at what she was pointing at. Bankotsu turned to face the others and informed them evenly, "Well, we found the remains of the priestess."

Miroku walked over taking a closer look and added solemnly, "Indeed, but why and how?" he asked with a puzzled expression. It made no sense.

Kitty inspected the broken bow and arrows closely before grimacing. She looked at the others and replied, "Because she was a fake- she was no priestess!"

Inuyasha looked at her and questioned confused, "How can you tell?" he certainly couldn't.

Kitty looked at him and replied, "Any priestess worth her salt- would have used an enchantment to protect her bow if nothing else. Even after her death the enchantment would remain for at least two months." Which only served to further the hanyou's confusion.

Miroku wearing a thoughtful expression agreed, "Indeed! Even Lady Kagome has had her bow enchanted." falling silent as his mind registered this new information.

Sango looked puzzled and queried, "So why would she pretend to be a priestess and try to tackle demons?" now puzzled herself.

Kitty shook her head sadly and said, "Unfortunately, we will never know." Bankotsu sensing she was upset reached over putting an arm around Kitty. She moved into him and hugged his waist burying her head on his chest, as she accepted his comfort.

Miroku stated grimly, "We should bury the remains and offer up a prayer." moving to gather the remains.

Kitty looked up still hugging Bankotsu's waist and said, "Look very closely at the clothes monk that was the first clue."

Miroku nodded then carefully examined the clothes closely and gasped, "These are not priestess clothes but appear to be the type for a barmaid!" Kitty sadly nodded her eyes also were filled with sadness for the life that had ended so tragically.

Kagome frowned and said confused, "So she was a barmaid who pretended to be a priestess?" confusion in her chocolate gaze.

Kitty looked at Kagome nodding and informed her, "My guess, is that she wanted the honor bestowed on a priestess and foolishly got herself killed in the process by pretending to be what she wasn't so as not to blow her ruse."

Miroku looked at the group nodding and added, "It would appear so. If the villagers believed her to be a true priestess, when the trouble came she would have had to admit her farce or try to face the demons in order to keep the ruse going. She must have chosen the latter." He and Inuyasha then dug a grave and buried the remains. Miroku kneeled beside the grave and offered up a prayer.

Kitty moved closer to the fire and said sadly, "One question answered and many more that shall never be." shaking her head sadly. She looked at the others and added, "We may as well try to get comfortable, I have a feeling we will be here a while."

Inuyasha replied, "Feh!" and sat down. Kagome scooted to sit next to him. Sango and Miroku sat down. Hakkaku sat down next to Koga. Kitty sat down and Bankotsu sat next to her. Kitty leaned her head on his shoulder. Bankotsu moved her arm around her waist holding her. She gladly leaned into him hugging his waist.

With Sesshomaru:



Sesshomaru stared at the imp before him and ordered, "Jaken, take Rin and Ahun and return to my castle. Wait for me there."

Jaken gazed at his master and replied, "Aye, Milord." with a bow.

Rin who'd already climbed up on Ahun's back, looked at Sesshomaru and added, "Good luck, Milord!"

Rin and Jaken then flew off on Ahun and Sesshomaru once again summoned his cloud and went back to the others.

With the others:



Kitty looked at the now pacing Inuyasha and said, "Relax, Inuyasha! I know you are spoiling for a fight but we should really wait for Sesshomaru to return. If what I suspect is true, we will need all the help that we can get to attack that castle."

Miroku watching Inuyasha as he paced added seriously, "She is right Inuyasha. I have a very bad feeling about that place."

Inuyasha rebutted, "Teh! I don't care what you think. I say we go and attack now!" He started to leave when Kagome yelled, "Sit boy!"

Inuyasha was immediately planted into the dirt in a rather large looking crater. He glared at Kagome and growled, "What the hell was that for, wench?"

Kagome's face turned red and she yelled, "Sit boy!"

Inuyasha fell further into the crater and yelled, "Will you stop that!?"

Kagome looked at him and said, "Then calm down and behave!" hands on her hips.

Inuyasha placed his hands on the ground and hoisted himself up out of the crater. He huffed and walked over to the fire sitting down. Kitty shook her head and sighed. Miroku looked at the others and stated, "He never learns, does he?"

Inuyasha growled glaring at him and demanded, "You got a problem, lech?" Bankotsu, who found this display amusing, threw his head back and laughed. Inuyasha snapped his glare to Bankotsu and demanded, "What's so damn funny, merc?"

Kitty said dryly, "Stubborn insolent pup!" while shaking her head sadly.

Inuyasha growled glaring at her and demanded, "What was that!?"

Kitty stood up holding his gaze and repeated, "Stubborn. Insolent. Pup!" Bankotsu looked at the two of them and laughed again. It was highly amusing to watch his woman putting that mutt in his place!

Inuyasha angrily demanded, "Come say it to my face, wench!" while glaring at her.

Kitty calmly stared him in the eye walking up to his face. She drew back her hand and slapped him across the face, snapping, "Don't ever call me that again, you wretched pup!" her temper blazing in her eyes.

Sesshomaru appeared and commanded, "Inuyasha calm yourself and stop behaving like a wretched pup!" Kitty turned to face Sesshomaru grinning and walked over to him.

Inuyasha growled while glaring at Sesshomaru. He drew his sword and yelled, "Make me!"

Kagome seeing the glint in Sesshomaru's eyes panicked and yelled, "Sit boy!"

Inuyasha was planted into the dirt once again. Kitty and Sesshomaru both smirked. Sesshomaru faced the group and said, "We can move out now. We will take the castle and make them tell us where Naraku is."

Bankotsu sick of waiting and taking charge barked, "Move out!" Everyone stood to their feet and set off towards the castle again.

Author's Note: Okay guys and gals there is chapter six please remember to read and review thanks.