Chapter 12

InuYasha had thought that he was mad before, but now… now he was really starting to get pissed off.

His blade struck his opponent's again and again, fang clashing against wickedly sharp steel. He was barely managing to block each strike of the deadly sword the specter seemed to wield like a master. The half-demon couldn't even land a single hit on him, his weapon was simply too fast. It was like a snake, striking repeatedly and without warning. The blade itself was like thirty or more blades chain linked together, retracting extending out at the mans will, like a whip of cold steel. He just barely managed to dodge as it came at him again, the edge of the wicked-looking sword scraping his bicep.

His demon was already surging, coming to the surface at the first whiff of his own blood. It was just a graze, but the specter had already struck him once, and this new wound only infuriated him even more. The demon in him would not forget such a slight.

He jumped out the way as the blade came zigzagging towards him again, sending up a cloud of dust as it struck the dirt.

"Keep running," The man sang wickedly, giggling as InuYasha just barely avoided his next hit, rolling as he smashed into the ground. He was on his feet again in an instant, but it was already too late. He could see steel flashing through the air, eyes widening a fraction as time seemed to slow. He made to jump, but the blade was already too close. He could feel the rush of wind as it arced, just inches away from impaling him.

"Hiraikotsu!"

Just when he thought he was finished for sure, the large boomerang-like weapon came hurdling through the air, tangling in the string of connected blades before it could deliver the would-be finishing move. He could only look up to the sky in shock, seeing Sango on Kirara's back, her features etched in concern. "InuYasha! Are you okay?"

"Keh, I'm fine." He said with a confidence that he didn't really feel. If Sango hadn't protected him just then, he would've been finished. He would've never gotten to see Kagome again…the thought shook him to his very core, and he silently cursed himself. He couldn't afford to let some low-life dead asshole get the better of him.

He rose to his feet again, taking up his fighting stance as he readied his sword in his hands. Sharp blood-red eyes were as hard as steel, long fangs bared in his anger as he leveled his gaze back on the man who was trying to dislodge the taijiya's weapon from his own, swearing in frustration. His eyes were dark, crazed even, as he stared at Sango with open animosity.

"You repulsive woman." He spat through clenched teeth. "You will not interfere!" He whipped his weapon again, uncaring of the heavy Hiraikotsu, this time directing the fatal instrument at the taijiya. She couldn't get out of the way in time, but the dead man's aim was off, he was shaking so hard with an unbridled fury only the very last blade grazed Sango's forearm. She jumped back, crying out as dark blood bloomed wetly across the sleeve of her kimono.

InuYasha didn't think. He was overcome with rage the moment Sango's blood had hit the air, the scent sickly sweet, thick and offensive to his senses. He saw Miroku run to catch her as she stumbled back, saw that the specter's attention was focused solely on her, sick satisfaction gleaming in his eyes and how he was rearing back for another hit. InuYasha had an opening. Time seemed to slow, and he lunged, putting everything he had into his right hook, grinning with satisfaction when it connected with the specter's jaw with a sickeningly wet noise. "Didn't I already tell you to shut your fucking mouth!"

There was a gratifying crunch and he could feel the bones break beneath his knuckles, the man's body sailing through the air, looking almost like a rag doll for a brief moment. But at the last second, in midair, he did a flip, landing in a low crouch in the dirt, his chest heaving.

He stood, stumbling a bit, wiping at the blood that dripped past his lips. Even though his jaw had to be completely shattered, he somehow managed to twist his painted lips in a gruesome smile.

What the hell is wrong with this guy? He's some kind of freak.

"Oh, InuYasha, I just knew we'd have such fun together." He laughed. Actually laughed. And not just a warm little chuckle, either, but loud, boisterous guffaws that trailed off crazily and had everyone's hair standing on end.

The half-demon could only stare at him, wondering just what in the hell could make a person this insane in the first place.

"Just tell me what I want to know already! Did Naraku give you that shard?" InuYasha was growing exasperated. Fighting this guy was draining, and he wasn't sure how to beat him just yet.

"Hmmm… how did you know about that?" He seemed genuinely interested, his eyes sparkled with it.

"Keh. Don't worry 'bout it, chump."

"Jakotsu."

"What?" The Hanyou snarled, baring his teeth.

"My name is Jakotsu." Though blood still dripped from his lips it seemed like he didn't feel anything. His expression was alight, fixated on InuYasha.

"So what? Nobody asked you. Tell me what you know, now." He ground out through his teeth; hands gripped around the hilt of his father's fang. Out the corner of his eye he saw dark fog beginning to drift down from the hills above, slightly obscuring his vison as it came seemingly out of nowhere. The scent was horrid, putrid like sulfur and he could feel his eyes start to burn as it enveloped them.

Jakotsu sighed, rolling his eyes as he retracted his sword with a snap. "Well, looks like our time's up for the day. I'd get out of here if I were you." He turned, casting a sidelong glance over his shoulder as he walked away, looking back at the Hanyou wistfully. "I'm looking forward to killing you, InuYasha." He gave a chilling little smile before he disappeared into the thickening mist.

"What the hell?!" He snarled, "Come back here, you bastard!"

"InuYasha!" Miroku coughed, "This fog… It's poison, we have to go!" He could see the shadow of Sango and Kirara as they retreated, the stupid hoshi waiting for him even though he was hacking sickly, eyes watering.

"Damn it all." He muttered, kicking childishly at the dirt before leaping up into the air, landing beside Miroku who was starting to turn green. "Come on, dumbass, let's get out of here before you keel over."

He let the monk lean on him as he led him out of the deadly mist, breathing a deep sigh of relief when the air was clean again and Miroku stopped coughing as much. Sango and Kirara were waiting just up ahead, looking as if the poison hadn't affected them much at all, which he was glad for.

"Where's Kagome?" The taijiya asked, looking concerned as she came to inspect the monk, who was holding onto InuYasha's shoulder for support, looking as if he was going to be sick any moment.

"I told her to take Shippo and wait for us. They shouldn't be far." He passed Miroku off to her, getting a bit suspicious of the man as he seemed just a little too eager to fall into Sango's arms.

"InuYasha!"

His ears perked up at the sound of the little kit's wailing voice, knowing instantly by the sinking feeling in his gut that something was terribly wrong. He could see him running, eyes overflowing with tears and panicked as his little legs worked hard to carry him down the hill.

"What's wrong? Where's Kagome?" The half-demon was at his side in a second, using his demonic speed to his advantage as he easily leapt at least fifty feet, closing the distance between them.

"InuYasha, I-I-I'm sorry I don't know what happened-" The Kitsune wailed, looking up at him fearfully through his tear-filled eyes.

"Shippo," He said seriously, leveling his gaze at the kit. "Just tell me where she is." The little boy seemed even more distressed at his words, his lip quivering pitifully.

"I don't know! She was- she left to go use the bushes, and then- I thought I heard something, So I-I-I went to take a look, but she was already gone! I couldn't smell her anymore-"

Before he could even finish explaining InuYasha was gone, racing after the quickly fading scent trail up the road, his heart crashing in his chest and his stomach flipping.

Gone? How could she be gone?

Bankotsu's dark brown eyes were boring into her own, lit with malicious intent that she could only guess at. His full lips were twisted in a crooked smirk, looking very much like a cat who'd caught the mouse.

"W-what do you want with me?" She was surprised she even managed to choke the words out, her voice was trembling as her heart pounded brutally against her ribs.

He laughed darkly under his breath, eyes never leaving hers as they sparkled cruelly.

"I'm not sure just yet, little bird. There are just so many fun things that I could do with you." His voice sent chills erupting down her spine. She was sure he could feel the way her heart raced, the way her breath hitched, they were so close. Their chests were almost touching as she pressed herself into the rough bark of the tree behind her, feeling it prick into her skin through the fabric of the jacket she wore. But she couldn't have cared less. She was desperate to put some space between them. But it was no use. His face was still but a scant five inches away from her own, his breath ghosting over her lips and she couldn't suppress the shudder that racked through her. She was terrified. And she couldn't do anything.

"I could take what I want from you now, and leave your body here for the animals…" He continued, a sickening joy held in his face as he studied her, seeming to take an evil delight in the way her eyes filled with tears that she refused to shed. "Or, shall I take you with me, little bird?" He said after a lengthy pause, sounding liked he liked that idea. The hand that wasn't pinned above her head coming up to trace over her cheek in an intimate gesture that had her stomach rolling with nausea. "It might be nice to have a woman around, for a change. What do you think, Kagome? Should I steal you, or should I just kill you now?"

For a moment, it seemed like he was actually waiting on her to answer. She couldn't think. Couldn't do anything under the intensity of his black, inhuman gaze. She was powerless, and he knew it. She shivered, her eyes flickering away, desperately looking for her escape. But there was nothing. No one was coming to save her this time.

Her thoughts went to Shippo, her heart yearning to go back to him so badly, but she also knew if she even tried, he'd probably just end up killing them both. She had to get Bankotsu away from here, as far from her kit as she could manage.

"Yeah, I think I will take you with me after all." He dropped his arm and took a step back, and she breathed a small sigh of relief, though her stomach still churned with dread. She felt nauseous looking at the sick grin that twisted at his lips, watching as malice bloomed there in his hooded gaze. His arm was rearing back as if in slow motion, and all at once before he could strike, she knew what he was about to do.

InuYasha… I'm sorry I'm so weak… please… I'll get out of this somehow, just… wait for me.

She was helpless as his fist came down on her in a cruel uppercut, possessing brutal force. White-hot pain exploded in her head, vision going black as she immediately lost consciousness. Unknowingly, she fell straight into his arms.

Bankotsu chuckled wickedly, breathing in her sweet feminine smell as he tossed her limp body up and over his shoulder, not bothering to be gentle. He proudly continued on his way through the wood, whistling a bright tune, his hand lightly resting on the small of her back, securing his catch.

She had seemed almost exotic to him when he had first spotted her, standing there in the mottled sunlight beneath the trees. Her clothing was odd to him, obviously from another land, though it was attractive, he'd admit. Formfitting, showing every curve like some harlot who was just begging to be snatched up. And when he caught sight of her eyes, so deep and rich, large and framed with thick lashes he knew that he couldn't just leave well enough alone. He just had to have her, one way or another.

He was supposed to be meeting with his brothers, but he could still make it before sundown, he reckoned, so he wasn't bothered. He was back from the dead and had already bagged himself a fine woman, life was good.

He walked for a while, following the Saimyosho that buzzed annoyingly on up ahead, until the density of the forest began to lessen and eventually the trees opened up to reveal a great manor built into the hillside. He could see the faint glimmer of a barrier around the estate, reflecting the trees that surrounded it, creating the illusion of endless forest to any would-be passer-by. He was sure the barrier would allow him to pass, as it was Renkotsu's handiwork, but he was curious to see as to how it would respond to the girl that was slung carelessly over his shoulder. He passed through, watching as the veil lifted and allowed them both through. It didn't reject her, or object even in the slightest to her presence.

Interesting.

The manor was not huge and imperial as others he had conquered in the past, but it was a decently sized and had fairly impressive architecture. He could tell by the statues as he walked up the stone path that this place had been a Buddhist temple, once.

Typical Renkotsu. Always going back to his roots one way or another.

The main entrance was marked with large shoji doors with imposing columns on either side, and they slid open easily to reveal a darkened foyer paneled in deep wood. The scent of incense was heavy in the air, almost masking the smell of death that lingered there.

"Big Brother, glad to see you again." It was Renkotsu's cold voice that spoke, and he turned to see the ex-monk wearing the robes of his old profession. The outfit seemed out of place when paired with the purple marks along his cheeks and forehead.

"You as well." Bankotsu nodded to the man, tightening his hold on the cargo over his shoulder as he could tell the other man was inspecting her.

"May I ask… why you have an unconscious woman in your possession?" Renkotsu pried dryly, and if he'd had any eyebrows to speak of Bankotsu was sure that they'd have been raised incredulously.

"I don't know really. She was just in my way." He laughed heartily, giving a carefree shrug. And it was the truth. He really had no reason to snatch her up the way he did, other than the fact that she was very beautiful, and she had happened to be in his path at the time.

"She has some spiritual power; I can sense it." Renkotsu's voice was calm but calculating, as always. His small-pupiled eyes were narrowed as if in deep thought.

"Oh, really?" Bankotsu was actually a bit intrigued now. First the odd get up and now she had some spiritual power too, what was with this girl? "Do you think she's could be a Miko or somethin'?"

"I'm not sure. I would guess so, judging by her aura, but her attire says otherwise."

"Oh well." Bankotsu shrugged again, "Not like any priestess could hurt me, anyhow. Besides, I don't plan on keeping her for too long." He grinned devilishly, patting the unaware girl's supple rump for good measure.

"Anyway, is there a room I can store her in?" She was light as a feather, but he was ready to bathe and drink some sake with his brothers again, just like old times.

"Yes. This way." Renkotsu turned, leading the way down the hallway that branch off to the right. They walked for only a few minutes before he stopped abruptly, opening the shoji door to reveal a small, barren room. The floor was covered in tatami mats, and there was a single futon in the center of the room. He took a quick look around before nodding in approval. It wasn't far from the entrance, but he doubted that she would figure that out any time soon.

He laid her down on the futon unceremoniously and without much care, letting her thud heavily against the floor. He could see now that there was a large bruise blossoming across her jar, the skin purple and red and swollen looking. Blood had dried as crusted down and around her nose, and he guessed somehow the force of his punch had been so strong that he'd managed to bust open the vessels there, even though he'd been going for a clean knock out hit. He was getting sloppy.

Renkotsu leaned down, much to Bankotsu's own surprise, and reached out to touch the girl's jaw gently, examining it with a furrowed brow.

"It's fractured, if not broken. I doubt this girl will be of any use to you when she awakens, her pain will be great." His voice was factual, his words frank and lacking any emotion behind them.

Bankotsu huffed a little at himself, and at the ex-monk for saying such a thing, though he knew it to be true. He really hadn't meant to hurt her that badly. He'd just wanted her calm and quiet until he could get her somewhere he had complete control. Hurt girls were no fun. They just cried and begged and laid there like dead fish. No, it was the girls who fought back tooth and nail that really excited him.

"Well… get Suikotsu to mix something up. He still has the doctor's memories, right? I'm sure she'll be fine."

"Yes, brother." Renkotsu nodded, moving away from the girl as Bankotsu went to stride out of the room.

"Oh yeah, find her some clothes, too. And don't leave her alone, either. Just wait outside the door." He ordered casually over his shoulder, walking away.

Renkotsu looked down at the girl with distaste and perhaps a shred of pity. Her face was marred by the angry-looking mark left by his leader, blood standing out starkly against her pale skin. She seemed almost deathly white with the contrast of blue-black hair that fanned around her in inky waves, her body splayed awkwardly on the futon. He hadn't much cared for women when he'd been alive the first time. He much preferred his books and his tinkering. Women just complicated things, and they were annoying. He doubted this one would turn out any different. She was already proving to be most bothersome, as now he was charged with her care for the time being, so it seemed.

He huffed out a low sigh, and turned to leave, closing the doors behind him as he went to find Suikotsu.

He didn't have to search very long. Suikotsu was sitting in the small courtyard, staring out into nothingness, eyes glazed over. On the bench next to him Renkotsu could see a jug of sake, as well as the man's claw-like blades glinting in the low light.

The sun was just sinking below the horizon, the sky darkening with each passing second. The courtyard was a bit overgrown, but still held an air of tranquility. Or at least it would have, if there wasn't a rather large, probably drunk, irritable mercenary humming along to some old song as if he hadn't a care in the ex-monk cleared his throat loudly to announce his presence to the brute of a man. Suikotsu whipped his head around, his eyes coming into focus as Renkotsu quickly strode towards him with purpose.

"Suikotsu. I have a task for you."

"Oh? What would that be?" the man replied gruffly.

"Bankotsu has asked that you prepare a treatment for a young lady that is now in his possession." He explained, deadpan. "She has a fractured jaw, possibly broken, and will need a remedy for the pain."

"Huh? So big brother found himself a woman, did he? Lucky bastard…" Suikotsu chuckled darkly, clearly envious. "Eh, think he'd let me have a turn?" the brute grinned evilly, eyes flashing with wickedness in the fading light.

"No. And donk ask again," Renkotsu said shortly, his tone harsh even to his own ears as he turned to go, throwing one last glance at his companion over his shoulder. "Begin preparing the treatment at once." The frame rattled as the shoji door closed behind him.

If he'd been coarse with his brother, it was only for his own good. Suikotsu wasn't his friend, but they had forged a bond that could not be broken. A bond born from bloodshed, from anarchy. It was something only a true warrior could understand. But their leader would not take kindly to anyone encroaching on his property, this he knew. Bankotsu didn't share.

Bathed in the near darkness of the hallway, he maneuvered back to the room the girl had been placed in, hearing the faint sounds of Bankotsu's boisterous laughter through the thin walls. She was still unconscious, splayed out in the same position she had been when he'd left her. Her breathing was deep but ragged, a faint wheeze escaping her every time she exhaled.

He didn't stall and hurriedly got to work. He removed the odd-looking footwear, as they were caked in mud, and tossed them out with distaste. She wouldn't be needing them, anyway. He pulled the thin blanket around her, taking care not to get too close. Her aura felt almost repugnant to him. It was so pure and pulsating with an energy that just rubbed against his own darker reiki the wrong way. The feeling had him grinding his teeth in irritation.

He hurried out of the room, set on getting the robes Bankotsu had specifically asked him to get her, knowing just where to find them, along with a few other things he knew would be useful.

When he was done and had laid everything he had retrieved out on the floor beside her, he lit the small oil lamp in the corner of the room and closed the door behind him. He settled down with a book and sat just outside, his back pressed into the cool wooden wall. He had brought a small lantern with him, and read by the soft light for some time, immersed in his documents well on into the morning.

InuYasha followed the twisting trail of Kagome and Shippo's scents, they were layered over one another, she must have held him as they walked. He stopped when he saw it; a bow and quiver, still filled with arrows, along with a bright yellow backpack, all propped neatly against a large boulder. They were hers; he knew it without question. The perfume of her lingered there, along with the kitsune's, but then branched off into the woods, alone. He was running, heart-pounding, breath coming in fast and hard as he tracked her. Suddenly, he came to an abrupt stop. Snarling viciously when a different, much more pungent stench overwhelmed his nostrils.

Graveyard dirt and…

He was shaking, clenching his fists so hard that he could feel the tips of his claws sinking into his own flesh.

… Kagome's… blood?!

The world was painted vivid red as a deafening roar tore itself from his throat, the beast that he did his best to control finally tearing itself free. Pure rage. It was the only thing he knew as he barreled through the forest, following the trail even as it began to fade and grow stagnant.

No

He could feel his rage burn within him, almost overshadowing the overwhelming fear that churned there. Almost, but not quite. He would find her, he was certain of that, but if she was hurt… he didn't know what he would do. But he couldn't think about that now. He had to focus his senses solely on finding her before it was too late.

Kagome, don't worry… I'm coming for you

He searched for her all day and all night. The trail he'd been following had disappeared after a while, fading out into nothingness but he kept going, relentless.

It was the next day, late afternoon and she still wasn't found. InuYasha was a raging, bloody mess and it was all he could do just to keep his actions rational as he did the only thing he could think to do.

He swore to himself that no matter what happened, he would kill whoever had dared lay a finger on his Kagome. She was delicate and precious, but someone had spilled her blood like it was nothing. He would relish the moment he found her again, and even more so the moment he could sink his bare claws into the throat of the bastard. But more than anything, he felt an insurmountable self-loathing that tainted every thought, every emotion that raced through him.

If only he hadn't sent her away… this wouldn't have happened. He knew it with sickening clarity and he never hated himself more than he did now.

The forest grew dark again, night settling upon the land and the sounds of nature came alive under the light of the moon. Birds twittering, owls hooting, bushes rustling from small mammals. But he didn't take notice. His mind was tunneled, thinking only of Kagome and where she could be. He didn't sleep, didn't stop for even a moment and before he knew it the sun was rising, and he still had nothing.

Anguish and rage washed through him simultaneously. Two days. It had now been two days since she'd been taken, and he hadn't managed to accomplish anything. His eyes were wet with unshed tears of frustration as he let out a roar, striking out at the nearest tree. His chest was heaving, breath hitching, staring at the brutal marks that had sliced deep into the wood; the physical representation of the tumultuous ocean of emotions that pulled and crashed inside him. He could do nothing to quell the torment, nothing except suffer and continue on until she was back in his arms again. He wouldn't rest until she was safe, and that was a promise.

Everything hurt.

Kagome laid perfectly still, keeping her eyes closed while she slowly came back to awareness again. All she could feel was a dull, agonizing throb in her face and head, and an intense dryness in her mouth as if she hadn't had even a sip of water in days. She could tell that she was on a thin futon, could feel an even thinner blanket pulled up around her waist, and there was the faint scent of incense in the air. Her first reaction was to sit straight up in alarm the second she realized she didn't know where she was, but she feigned sleep a while longer as everything came rushing back all at once.

Bankotsu. The name of the man who had stolen her, as he put it. And he didn't know how right he was.

She was already trembling, unable to control her body's natural response to the fear of knowing that he could be near, even now, even as she slept; vulnerable and defenseless. Kami only knew what had been done to her as she had been indisposed.

When she felt like she just couldn't handle her thirst any longer, she slowly cracked her eyes open. From her position on the hard floor she could tell that she was in a small square room, the walls paneled in a mix of light green and dark stained wood, reflected in the dim light of a small oil lamp in the corner. Shoji doors dominated the wall to her left. She was alone.

She breathed a small sigh of relief at that, grateful that she wasn't in any immediate danger, just yet, at least. There was no way she could fight off any sort of attack in the state she was in, she was dazed and completely powerless. Slowly, she sat up on her elbows, wincing as pain shot down her spine and her vision swam the instant she lifted her head. Her fingers were shaking as she gently probed at her jaw, where most of her pain was centered, fighting the strangled cry that threatened to loose itself from her throat as vivid, white-hot pain shot through her. It felt like the whole left side of her face was on fire, pulsing and she couldn't quiet the whimper that passed her lips as she pulled her hand away.

Fat tears rolled down her cheeks to drop wetly onto her dirty shirt. She hadn't even realized that she'd started crying.

Trembling, she sat up fully, ignoring the sore muscles that screamed with the action, eyes scanning the room. Off to the right side of the futon, there was a pitcher of water and a small bowl, a rag sat next to it. Without thinking, she scrambled for it, fumbling for a moment before putting the pitcher to her lips, guzzling greedily at the life-giving liquid.

When she'd had her fill, she set it back on the floor, breathing heavily for a long moment. The pain in her face was constant. A deep ache that couldn't be assuaged, overpowering all else. Her vision swam, but at least her mouth wasn't so dry anymore, she felt like she could focus a little better. She looked around the room a bit more, noticing that behind the pitcher and bowl, there was a pile of clothes folded neatly, a small mirror sat atop them and a woman's hair comb beside that.

She reached for the mirror with shaking fingers, bringing it up to examine the damage she'd taken from Bankotsu's wicked blow. The surface was cloudy and obscured, and the lighting was dim at best, but she could still clearly see the dark bruise that blossomed across her jaw and up her cheek, dark and swollen. Blood, dried and crusted was built up around her nose, and her eyes had deep purple bags beneath them, her skin holding a pale, sickly hue.

She hardly recognized herself. She was battered and weak, her hair feeling ratty as it escaped from the braid over her shoulder, messily hanging around her face and sticking to her sweaty forehead. Her hands were trembling as she sat the mirror down, a heaving a wet sob racking through her, anguish pooling in her stomach. She felt like she was going to throw up. Her mind was reeling, and it was all she could do just to take deep breaths, fighting to calm her racing heart and her stomach that twisted with nerves. She didn't know how she was going to make it out of this. She was weakened, wrought with pain and vulnerable to just about anything right about now. What little reiki she had available to her would do no good against her captor… a man who was not a man, but also not a demon. And the number of jewel shards she knew he possessed was enough of a deterrent in and of itself.

Three.

One was enough to make anyone a significant opponent, but three, that was a whole different ball game and she knew that without a doubt she stood no chance if he was to decide he was better off killing her.

Why had he taken her, anyway? Just who was he? And more importantly, what did he want?

Could he be… a specter, like the villagers had warned about?

She didn't want to think about that for too long. If it was true, and Bankotsu was a member of the Band of Seven, she shuddered to think of what would happen to her. Vile images worked their way into her susceptible thoughts, and she truly wanted to vomit then.

Images of eyes like molten amber flashed in her mind, filled with determination and stark power, nearly glowing with it, even. And something else, too. There was love shining there, beaming right through her. She didn't know if it was a memory, or a vision, or just a hallucination of her near delirious state of mind but she didn't care. She knew that it wasn't real, he wasn't there to save her just yet. But he would come, and she vowed to stay alive until then. His name passed her lips, a broken whisper that was nothing more than the gentle rasp of her voice. It helped to steel her slightly, the thought of him searching for her, like she knew he was.

If she knew him as well as she thought she did, he wouldn't stop. He'd never rest until he found her, dead or alive.

After a while, she managed to gather herself enough to carefully fill the large bowl with a bit of the precious water, grabbing the soft linen rag that was folded neatly beside it. Carefully, using the clouded mirror, she dabbed gently at the blood crusted around her nose until it was clean, the water in the bowl turned a pinkish color. Her arms were trembling with the exertion, but she carefully untangled the greasy braid, taking the bone-white comb and running it through the long locks, picking out random bits of leaves as she went, until it hung soft and flowing down her back again.

She felt grimy, her outfit dirt-smeared and sweaty, but she refused to don the clothes he'd set out for her. She was unwilling to give in so easily, to hand over complete control without the least bit of fuss. So, she neatly folded her legs beneath her as best she could, sitting up to face the shoji doors.

And then she waited.

It seemed like hours passed, but she had no idea what time of day it even was. She wondered how long had she been asleep, even? Had she been missing for days already? There was no way for her to tell, no way to keep track of time as it ticked away. So, she just waited. Agonizing not only over her swollen and throbbing jaw but also just what was going to happen when Bankotsu finally came for her as she knew he eventually would. It terrified her, shook her to her very core and nearly drove her insane with fear. This limbo she was in made it all the worse, her mind having nothing to distract itself from self-destructive thoughts in the bare room.

Her eyes flickered back into focus the shoji doors. Unless they were magicked, they would be easy to open. It seemed simple, but then… what was waiting for her on the other side? Was she brave enough to find out?

To her, it felt like a whole day had gone by before she could finally hear some signs of life through the thin walls. Footsteps… a muffled voice here and there…

She was feeling even shakier than before as she became aware of just how hungry she was. But with her jaw damaged as it was, she doubted that she could even manage to force anything down.

All at once, the door slid open, snapping her out of her trance instantly, eyes snapping up to the figure that lingered in the threshold, her heart rate doubling in an instant. Bankotsu stood there, displeasure was written clearly in his expression, his brow furrowed as he looked down at her. She was sure she looked pathetic, sitting there with her eyes as wide as dinner plates and chest heaving. He stepped into the room fully, sliding the door back with a loud snap as it smacked into the frame.

"Hello again, Kagome."

The way he said her name made her sick. It sounded wrong, sensuous in a way that made her skin crawl. She didn't respond, not daring to take her eyes off him for a second as he approached her. To her surprise, he lowered himself to sit beside her, crossing his legs beneath him. She shifted away, hating how close he was and the way he observed her discomfort with obvious glee.

"You're not much of a talker, huh?" He asked her after a long, tense moment, a wicked little gleam shining in his dark eyes that sent shivers now her spine. "Well, that's just not going to work." His voice had a hard edge to it that was impossible to miss, a mean smile on his face.

"You're mine now, little bird. You will obey me." His words left no room for objection, and he was now even closer, getting in her face as he stared her down. His hand came up to stroke the side of her face tenderly, right over the deep bruise and inflamed the skin and she couldn't help but flinch away from his touch. "Do not forget… I could have killed you, taken only what I wanted... But I spared you. You should be grateful… happy, even. You have a purpose now. You're welcome." She hated the way he seemed so smug, he practically oozed with it

"w-what purpose would that be?" She didn't know how she managed to find the courage to speak, her voice was weak and cracked, her hands clenched so hard she could feel her nails digging into her own palm. The sensation was dull, like she was feeling it from a faraway place as the encapsulating pain in her jaw took center stage, and adrenaline worked to pound her heart against her ribs at a brutal pace.

At her response, he smiled, a slow sickening grin that stretched wide across his features. He fingered a lock of dark hair that had fallen over her shoulder, his eyes holding a gleam of male appreciation that had her stomach rolling with nausea. Her first instinct was to jerk away from him, but she didn't dare. She stayed stock still, like a statue, hardly daring to breathe under his gaze.

"You do what only I say. You think only what I say. And you live simply because I allow it. Get it?" His eyes were ablaze with his wickedness, his grin ear-splitting and terrifying. Tears slid freely down her cheeks, eyes never leaving his, unable to speak as her throat tightened with emotion.

She couldn't answer, didn't know what to say to that. But that just seemed to irritate him. His hand that had been gently stroking suddenly was vicious as he twisted his fist in her long hair, fingers gripping tight, yanking her head back uncomfortably to expose her neck. She wanted to scream from the pain. He was stretching the sore, inflamed impact site of her wounded jaw without care, a low chuckle passing his lips. She couldn't stop the tears but with everything she had left she forced her lips shut, refusing to give him the satisfaction of hearing her suffering, at least.

"You will answer me when I speak to you." He pushed her head back up to lock their eyes together, his fingers were still woven painfully tight against her scalp. She could see that he was taking some sick pleasure in this. Her pain, her hopelessness, and vulnerability. "Do you understand?"

"Y-yes." It passed her lips as barely a whisper, broken and thick with emotion and agony as the throbbing of her jaw now felt intensified tenfold.

"Good." His hand fell from her hair, and she shakily released the breath she'd been holding. "Get dressed like a proper lady, then perhaps I could be swayed to help with your pain a bit, little bird."

He rose to his feet in one swift motion, turning away and striding out the door, sliding it shut behind him.

She deflated instantly, taking long deep breaths, choking back a sob. She felt so defeated. So weak and everything in her was screaming, telling her that she had to get out of here before something truly terrible and irreparable happened to her.

InuYasha… I'm sorry… I don't know if I can make it but… I'll try

More than anything, she wanted to be safe and in his arms again, to look into those eyes that captivated her endlessly. But she was alone here, wherever here was. There was no one to protect her. She was on her own in this place of mystery, unknowing of dangers that could be lurking at every corner. She had to do what she could to survive. She had to make it back. Not only to InuYasha, but the rest of their friends and her family back home, too. The memory of her mother standing in the kitchen the last time she'd seen her, her brown eyes kind and warm like a crackling hearth flashed through her mind.

"Be careful, and come back soon, okay?"

Tears flowed anew, thinking that if she died, they would never know what happened to her. They would always be left wondering. Her body would probably end up in the forest somewhere, rotting, left for the animals…

she couldn't let her life end here. No matter the cost.

After she'd calmed down a little, she wiped her tears on the sleeve of her pink jacket, gathering her wits as she reached for the kimono that lay folded by the edge of the futon. It was made of simple cotton, a pale blue in color, and beneath that she could see there was a white under kimono, a gray obi and a himo. She knew a little about dressing in the feudal period, but there had always been someone to help her the few times she'd donned the attire.

She stood, her legs wobbling a bit as she centered herself, fumbling with her jeans as she slid them off with difficulty. She was breathing hard already. The jacket was easy and quickly joined the pants in the crumpled pile on the floor. She tossed her shirt but left her bra and panties on as she rushed to slip into the under kimono, hating the feeling of being so exposed in this place.

The fabric felt cool and clean on her skin, and she took her time wrapping it around her and tying the himo around her hips to secure it, making sure that it was tight before she moved on to the simple outer kimono. She always struggled with tying an obi, but after a few tries she deemed it good enough and sat back down on the futon with a heavy sigh.

She wasn't left waiting very long. But this time, when the door opened, it wasn't Bankotsu who stood there. It was a different man. He was tall, broad, his skin pale and his face marked with two long stripes of purple that went down both cheeks, and even up both eyelids and over where his eyebrows would be, if he had them. There was a mark there in the center of his forehead, she could just see the edge of it peeking out from the light blue headscarf he wore. Though he was intimidating she had to admit that he definitely wasn't as scary as Bankotsu. His eyes lacked the fire she'd seen in the other man, and she was glad at least he didn't look at her with open hunger.

He came through the doorway but left it open, and she noticed that he was carrying a tray with him. He set it on the floor and took a step back. Her eyes never left him. And he never looked away from her, either.

He was wearing a kimono that matched his bandana, and white hakama with a purple sash. He wore armor all over his body, and there was a long knife sheathed at his waist.

"There is a tea there that will soothe some of your pain."

His voice was calm, as smooth and resonant as the low tide on a moonless night. Uncaring and distant.

"Eat. And we can go." He made no move to leave. Those black eyes just staring, seemingly unblinking.

"Go? Go where?" She asked, her aching jaw making it difficult to speak.

"Quiet. Do as you are told, child." He stepped back again to lean against the wall beside the door, looking away from her with a bored look on his face.

It was obvious that he wasn't going to tell her anything.

She sighed but turned her attention to the tray the man had set down. There was a small cup of tea and a steaming bowl of what looked like broth. Her stomach rumbled hungrily at the tantalizing smell, and she was grateful at least it was something she knew she could eat in her state.

Carefully, she picked up the tea first, inspecting it. It smelled like herbs and was the color of seaweed, a dark, clear green. But she would have done anything to alleviate the pain of the aching bruise, so without thinking more into it she pressed her lips to the rim and took a deep drink. She could feel the warm liquid rushing all the way down her body to pool heavily in her empty stomach. She could have cried from how good it felt. She tipped back the rest of it, sighing in pleasure as she set the cup back down. Already, she could feel some of the pain fading, becoming a bit less intense with each passing second.

She lifted the heavy bowl to her mouth a sipped at the hot broth with vigor, feeling a little even dribble down her chin as she did. It was rich and smooth, giving her the sustenance that she needed to heal. It took her longer to finish than she'd thought it would. She felt so full, and surprisingly much better. More alert, less focused on the ache in her jaw and more on her surroundings.

"Come." The man rose from his position against the wall, beckoning her to rise.

She did, on shaky legs, smoothing her hands along the soft cotton fabric of the long kimono. She walked the few steps to stand beside him, suddenly conscious of her bare feet. Stupidly, she couldn't help but wonder what they had done with her favorite pair of sneakers.

Without a word he turned and led her down the dark hall at a brisk pace. The walls were paneled in dark wood, with the occasional door or artwork to break up the monotony.

"What is your name?" She couldn't stop the question when it bubbled up, but she regretted it almost instantly when she saw his shoulders stiffen, and she could see that he was looking at her from the corner of his eye almost suspiciously.

"Renkotsu."

She was surprised he even answered.

"Thank you for the tea, Renkotsu. I feel much better." She offered, shifting her gaze away.

"It is of little consequence to me how you feel. Besides, I did not make the brew. It was my brother, Suikotsu. And even then, it was an order." He dismissed her easily, his lips curled in obvious distaste for her and she wanted to bury herself alive. She was an idiot.

She didn't speak again as he led her on through the dimness, and neither did he. Eventually, he stopped in front of a door, pulling it open in one swift motion, not giving her any time to gather herself. He didn't even spare her a look as he strode in, and she wearily followed behind him.

Her heart rate doubled the instant she stepped over the threshold. All at once, four pairs of eyes swiveled towards her as Renkotsu lowered himself gracefully to the floor to sit at the long table that ran the center of the room. She was frozen, unsure of what to do so she just stared dumbly at the men. She counted them silently… there were five of them, including Renkotsu.

She could feel her heart drop in her chest, her stomach feeling heavy with dread. She should have guessed it by now, all the signs were there, but she hadn't wanted to believe it. Though only five men sat around the table, she knew it to be true. The Band of Seven had stolen her, and here she was in the belly of the beast, their hideout. She wondered where the other two were, but it didn't matter much.

She was barefoot, weaponless, and wounded.

How am I going to get myself out of this?

A/N: Whew! That was a big one right there, about 8,200 words! Sorry to keep you guys waiting, but I hope you enjoyed this chapter, even though poor Kagome is going through it, and InuYasha is kind losing it right now. Don't worry, it'll all get better soon! I'm keeping some elements of the storyline, but twisting it slightly to fit my own purpose, tell me what you think! Also, I just wanted to say thanks to everyone who's been reviewing these, you guys inspire me to keep up with this :) As always, thanks for reading!