InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ A Miko's Love Story. ❯ Kagome's Turn and Yuka's Blunder ( Chapter 9 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: kittyb78 
Kagome has a dream, which Bankotsu enters.
Yuka blabs that Inuyasha was Kagome's supposed 'bad boy boyfriend'
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Adventure | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 07.20.2010 | Pages: 7 | Words: 5.9K | Visits: 399 | Status: Completed
Kagome has a dream, which Bankotsu enters.
Yuka blabs that Inuyasha was Kagome's supposed 'bad boy boyfriend'
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Adventure | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 07.20.2010 | Pages: 7 | Words: 5.9K | Visits: 399 | Status: Completed
Disclaimer: I do not own or make profit from the Inuyasha series Copyrights to Inuyasha and Characters belongs to Rumiko Takahashi
I only own the plot, and story line to this story and Tara. There. I said it. (sighs)
Chapter Nine:
Kagome's Turn and Yuka's Blunder:
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO - - DREAM SEQUENCE - - XOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Kagome was sitting in the woods relaxing against a tree, when she heard a woman's voice.
"Kagome wake up child."
Kagome opened her eyes and blinked. Before her eyes stood the ghost of a powerful woman, who seemed vaguely familiar. Kagome asked, "Eh, who... who are you?"
The ghost replied, "I am the priestess who created the Shikon No Tama."
Kagome gasped, "Midoriko?"
The ghostly figure nodded. "Yes, child, now listen carefully: I have done what I can to try to counter act Naraku's spell."
"Who are you?" demanded a male voice from the shadows.
Kagome blinked. "Bankotsu… How are you here?" She asked.
He walked out of some nearby trees, to stand protectively in front of Kagome. He stared at the ghost. "I asked you a question specter."
"I am the creator of the Shikon jewel," Midoriko replied. "And I am the one who has bound you and the priestess's souls together."
His eyes narrowed and Bankotsu demanded, "What? Why?"
Midoriko explained, "I did so in order for you and the priestess to defeat Naraku. You two must work together! If you do not, the past will only repeat itself."
Kagome frowned. "You're referring to what happened with Inuyasha and Kikyo, aren't you, Midoriko?"
The ghost nodded and continued, "What I have done, is entwined your soul with the mercenary's soul for two reasons. One: To help you two understand one another, which is why you can enter one another's dreams. Two: In order to teach you to recognize, and appreciate each others inner strengths, as well as to draw on each others strengths."
Seeing the question burning in their eyes, she explained, "This way, even though Kagome is physically weaker and the easier target, you will both be able to protect one another. She will be strengthened by drawing on the bond between you and thus prolonging your lives together."
Kagome gasped in surprise.
Bankotsu frowned. "So you are telling us that you forced us to open up to one another?"
"No!" Midoriko corrected. "You two already showed concern for one another, so I knew my spell would help bring those feelings to the surface. However, the bonding which you two have done - has been just that."
She assured, "I have not tinkered with your emotions at all. Your emotions for one another are just that. I simply helped bring them to the surface. No spell could ever force you two to bond, unless you wished to already. "
Holding hands, they both nodded.
Midoriko added, "You two will be waking up soon but remember this: your bond is your biggest advantage, and if you two bond close enough, you will eventually be able to 'feel' each other's emotions; as well as speak to each other telepathically."
She smiled at them, making them feel warm and drowsy."This is all I can do for you two; the rest is up to you. Good luck."
Midoriko's ghost faded away.
XOXOXOXOXOXO - - END DREAM SEQUENCE - - XOXOXOXOXOXO
They woke up cuddled together and stared at each other a minute. Both were blinking and trying to take in what the dream had revealed to them.
Kagome asked nervously, "Did you, ah... see Midoriko?"
Bankotsu replied in a somewhat shocked voice, "Yeah." He looked at her and asked, "So now what?"
Kagome stood up.
Bankotsu also stood up and pulled on his shirt.
Kagome faced him. "Are you hungry?"
"Yeah," Bankotsu stared at her.
Kagome led him by the hand into the kitchen and busied herself making omelets.
He stood with the back of his hips leaning against the cabinet. "Do you know where Midoriko came from?"
Kagome nodded and continued making the omelets. "When we first met Sango, she explained that Midoriko was the creator of the sacred jewel, and had been from her village."
Bankotsu nodded, and tilted his head a bit to the side. "So this Midoriko… was a ninja?"
Kagome laughed musically. "No, not a ninja," she corrected him. "She was a demon slayer and a priestess."
Bankotsu looked thoughtful a moment. "That Kohaku kid… he has the same type of armor as your friend," he stated, "So he is from the village as well?"
"He is Sango's brother. Naraku killed their village and then tried to control both Sango and Kohaku," Kagome answered sadly.
More to himself, than to her, Bankotsu voiced, "I thought there was a connection."
Kagome nodded. Having finished making the food, she set their plates on the table.
They sat down.
Bankotsu raised a brow at Kagome and then pointed at the food. "What is this?" curiously.
Kagome smiled. "It's called an omelet and it is really good, so eat up."
He nodded, taking his fork and cut a piece off. He held it up looking at it and sniffing it. He cautiously put it in his mouth and smiled. He swallowed and exclaimed happily, "Hey this is good!" He finished eating.
Kagome chuckled and kept eating.
Afterwards, Kagome did the dishes and they walked outside.
She walked over to the sacred tree and placed a hand lovingly on the tree.
Bankotsu raised a brow. "What are you doing?"
Kagome sighed happily and replied, "Remembering." She explained, "This Sacred tree is the same one that is by the Bone Eaters well in your time. It's where I first met Inuyasha, and it is where my father proposed to my mother." She spoke in a soft voice.
Bankotsu glared at the mention of Inuyasha. "What's the deal with you and that hanyou, anyway? Are you two together or what?"
Kagome sighed heavily and answered sadly. "No, we are not together." Her eyes filled with sorrow as she whispered, "I am just his friend."
Bankotsu sat down with his back against the tree and then reached up, yanking her into his lap.
Her eyes widened in shock and then she smiled sadly. "He needs me to find the jewel shards for him. We are friends. No matter how much I try, I cannot compete with Kikyo - she will always hold his heart." She whispered the last part. A few silent tears fell down her cheeks.
Bankotsu cupped her face in his hands and gently wiped away her tears with his thumbs. He stated seriously, "Inuyasha is a fool. You are much stronger than any of them realize. That is why Naraku is so scared of you."
Kagome gasped. "Is... is Naraku really that scared of me?"
"Why else would he be so determined to separate you from Inuyasha and the others all the time?" Bankotsu replied. "Kagura told me about all the times he has tried to get you away from the others."
Feeling dejected, Kagome looked away. "But Kikyo is stronger than I am, and she - "
Bankotsu snapped, "Is that you or the mutt talking?"
Kagome blinked a minute. "But..."
Bankotsu stared her dead in the eye. "Listen to me, Kagome. Your Miko powers are not at their fullest potential yet," He informed her dead seriously,. "Kikyo's are... even a dead mercenary like me can tell you have the potential to surpass that dead priestess. Naraku knows this and fears it."
Kagome was so shocked that for once she was actually speechless.
Bankotsu continued bitterly, "If that stupid mutt is too damn blind to see what's in front of him, then he doesn't deserve you or your feelings for him!" Bankotsu sighed. "He isn't a good leader from what I have seen, in fact; he is only trying to do the same thing as Naraku - which is to become a full demon."
Kagome's eyes widened and she gasped. "He isn't heartless like Naraku. Inuyasha has a heart, he just he loves Kikyo."
Bankotsu snorted. 'Is she that far gone on that stupid Inutrasha?'
Kagome tapped her chin. 'I never thought of it that way… Bankotsu actually brings up a valid point. Still… I doubt Inuyasha would be so heartless.'
She stared into his eyes. "I doubt Inuyasha would be as cruel as Naraku, but, yes he is planning to use the Sacred jewel to become a full demon. He loves Kikyo - "
Bankotsu mentioned dryly, "And not you, right?"
Feeling her heart ache at the knowledge, Kagome nodded and started crying. "I'll never compare to Kikyo in his eyes."
Bankotsu placed her head on his chest. He asked frustrated, "Why do you care about what Inutrasha thinks?"
Her head came up and her eyes narrowed. "His name is Inuyasha. And I care because he is my friend."
Bankotsu demanded in a fierce voice, "Or is he something more?"
Kagome looked to the side avoiding his eyes.
A frown appeared on his face. 'What does she see in that damn half breed anyway?' He reached out grasping her chin forcing her to look him in the eyes and said. "If he's too blind to see what's staring him right in the face, then let him lose it - it'll be his loss."
She asked quietly, "Do you know the story of what happened fifty years ago?"
He replied evenly, "Naraku said that Inuyasha loved that dead priestess and that she sealed him to the tree." He frowned and asked, "Do you perhaps know why?"
She nodded. "It's true; Kikyo and Inuyasha loved each other. But, a bandit named Onigumo, who later became Naraku, plotted to tear them apart. He disguised himself as Inuyasha and attacked Kikyo, and then disguised himself as Kikyo and had a spat with Inuyasha."
She wiped her eyes and continued. "Inuyasha stole the sacred jewel which Kikyo had been guarding and Kikyo caught him and then sealed him to the tree." She sighed heavily and finished bitterly, "Naraku tricked them into thinking they had betrayed each other."
'This means she should know much more about Naraku…' Bankotsu took a moment to soak in this new information. "What exactly do you know about Naraku?" he demanded.
Kagome's teeth ground together. "I know that he likes to play mind games and turn people against each other. After he has amused himself by playing mind games, he turns serious and tries to destroy you."
Bankotsu sighed heavily. 'What the hell did I get us into?'
"Why did you agree to work for him?" Kagome asked concern in her voice and eyes.
Bankotsu sighed heavily. "He said that if me and my comrades worked for him and destroyed his enemies, that our renewed lives would be everlasting," he answered.
He took a deep breath and finished sadly, "I wanted a second chance for me and my brothers."
Kagome placed a small hand on his large shoulder. "I'm sorry, Bankotsu."
Bankotsu's hand settled on top of hers and squeezed it lightly. "It will all work out," he said with a small smile.
"What we need to do, is find a way for you to live without those jewel shards," Kagome declared.
Bankotsu sighed heavily and nodded.
She hugged him tightly and said softly, "We have just started to become friends and I don't want to lose you."
He smiled and hugged her back. "You won't lose me! I am not about to let that bastard Naraku kill me and my remaining brothers!" Dropping his arms, he added bitterly, "Plus, I still have to find that monster and kill it too."
She nodded, and then buried her head in his chest. "I will help you, and I will do everything I can to try and save Ryori for you."
He blinked. "I appreciate the offer Kagome, but I doubt Ryori even exists anymore," he replied sadly.
Kagome countered, "Well we won't know until we try."
He sighed heavily and declared fiercely, "I won't let you get hurt, Kagome. I will handle that monster that inhabited my brother's body alone."
"Like it or not I am going to help you find him," Kagome retorted sternly. "We can't be apart, remember?"
His hands returned to her hips and held her tighter. His body tensed up as it went ram rod straight.
"Besides, it's just the way I am," she confessed softly. "If one of my friends is hurting, I do whatever I can to cheer them up."
She made him look into her eyes. "Even cold-blooded killers have to have some kind of heart. You're not as unfeeling as most people think."
Noticing the confusion in his eyes, she continued, "I have always admired your strength. Plus, you are a good leader from what I have seen so far." She confirmed, "Bankotsu I want... no, I need to help you."
Bankotsu blinked. 'How can one girl have such a caring heart and strong will?' He felt his once icy heart melt a little more. He slowly relaxed, as his hold became gentle once more. He held her just enjoying having her in his arms. 'I can't believe how much she really cares about me. Is this girl for real?'
Remembering her tears from earlier, he sighed heavily. "Are you feeling better?"
She answered shyly, "A little, thanks."
He smiled and nodded. He stood up and helped her to her feet. "Because if you aren't," he mentioned, "I can always show you how beautiful you are."
Slowly, while holding her gaze, he lowered his head and claimed her mouth in a tender kiss.
As his tongue caressed hers, her head spun from the sheer pleasure.
He broke the kiss and spoke in a husky timber. "Do you think I would kiss just anyone like that?"
She shook her head side to side.
He smiled and assured her, "You are one of the most beautiful girls that I have ever seen." He added mentally, 'And I am having a hard time keeping my lips to myself.'
She giggled as he nuzzled his head against the crook of her neck. She pushed against his chest, and he reluctantly let her go.
He looked into her smiling face. 'Looks like she's feeling better now,' he thought, puffing his chest out.
Kagome smiled. 'He's so sweet for cheering me up.' After a minute, she pulled out of his arms and showed him around the outside of the shrine.
A car passed by.
Bankotsu jumped a little and glared at it. "What the hell was that?"
She giggled and then explained what the car was and what it was used for.
After a while they walked back inside the house.
Sora and Grandpa were in the kitchen drinking tea.
XOXOXOXOXO
Unbeknown to the people inside the house, the shrine house glowed with a bright blue light that quickly faded.
The doors were flung open. Inuyasha's eyes narrowed as he stormed over to the main house. 'How dare he? I'll show him not to order me around like some misguided pup!' His fists clenched, aching to smack into that arrogant teenage leader's face.
XOXOXOXOXO
Kagome and Bankotsu were just sitting down at the table to enjoy some tea.
Inuyasha stormed in glaring at them. "How dare you tell me to stay? I don't care if you are bound to that bastard Bankotsu through Naraku's spell - you are coming with me Kagome, now!" He reached out for Kagome.
Her eyes widened in shock until his words registered. Her face became bright red and her nostrils flared. Her eyes narrowed. "Inuyasha sit boy!"
Inuyasha plummeted to the floor.
Kagome's eyes filled with hurt and tears. She sobbed brokenly, "Inuyasha, how could you?"
Hearing Inuyasha's outburst, Sora and Grandpa's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Kagome dear, is what Inuyasha just said true?" Sora asked, with eyes filled with worry for her daughter.
'I can't believe he did that.' Unable to face anyone at the moment, Kagome threw herself into Bankotsu's chest and sobbed, clinging as if he were her lifeline.
Bankotsu's chest heaved with barely contained anger. He instinctively wrapped his arms around Kagome to comfort her. He glared at the half-breed. "What the hell are you doing here, Inuyasha?"
He seethed, "You just couldn't stay away like you were told, could you? You just had to come and make Kagome cry, didn't you?" His jaw clenched
Kagome continued to cry.
Bankotsu held her while glaring angrily at Inuyasha. . 'Fucking worthless half breed, he just couldn't let her not cry!'
Inuyasha's eyes widened in shock as he saw Kagome fling herself into Bankotsu's arms, and then narrowed in anger and jealousy as he saw Bankotsu hold Kagome to his chest.
He snarled in frustration as Bankotsu yelled at him.
While rubbing one hand up and down her back soothingly, Bankotsu held Kagome gently, and soothed, "It will be alright, Kagome, don't cry."
Inuyasha cast a hopeful glance towards Kagome, but noticed the glare Bankotsu was giving him.
Sora walked over to place a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Kagome dear, does this mean that you two are not really engaged?"
Kagome looked up at her mother with a sorrow filled expression. "Mama, I..." her voice quivered, tears forming in her eyes. 'I lied to my family…' Her heart squeezed painfully and she began crying again.
"Shh, it's okay, dear." Sora opened her arms to Kagome, who accepted the embrace.
Bankotsu dropped his arms sighing heavily, but never took his eyes off of Inuyasha.
Feeling contrite Inuyasha started to apologize, "Kagome, I..."
Desperately needing comfort, Kagome instinctively moved closer to Bankotsu and sobbed into his chest again. 'Right now Bankotsu is the only one who can truly understand how I am feeling.' Her arms went around his waist as she nuzzled her face into his chest.
Sensing that she needed it, Bankotsu's muscular arms held Kagome. He kept glaring at Inuyasha, clearly warning him to back off.
Inuyasha's ears flattened as his head fell to his chest. He stood there looking dejected. 'I can't believe she went to him for comfort…'
Taking a deep breath, Kagome answered softly, "Yes, Mama, I'm sorry we lied to you all."She sniffed. "Naraku did curse us, and we can't leave each others sides."
Sora gasped. "I thought you two were friends?"
Kagome looked up. "We are friends Mama, at least now we are," she answered with a small smile.
Inuyasha's ears twitched and his head snapped up in shock at Kagome's words. 'What the fuck does she mean they are friends?'
Blue eyes spitting fire, Bankotsu demanded, "Are you happy now, Inuyasha?"
Inuyasha glowered at the teenage male. "I - "
Kagome turned to face Inuyasha and looked directly into his eyes. "Inuyasha, I think you should return to the Feudal Era."
Inuyasha gazed intently into her eyes. 'Damnit the hurt in Kagome's eyes is too much.' He dropped his eyes from hers. 'I didn't mean to hurt her; I was trying to protect her.' His ears flattened to his head and his chest squeezed.
He sighed heavily and then slowly walked over towards the well. He stopped and turned to send one longingly in the direction of the house and heaved one last regretful sigh. Turning back around, he jumped into the well.
XOXOXOXOXO
Bankotsu glared after the departing hanyou. He turned to Kagome, eyes softening and used his thumbs to swipe away her tears. "Are you okay?"
Kagome sighed heavily. "I will be. But I think we'd better explain things to Mama."
Bankotsu held her gaze and nodded.
Kagome faced her mom. "Naraku cursed me and Bankotsu, so that we cannot leave each other's sides. We are trying to break the curse, but haven't found out how to yet."
Needing to set things straight with her family, Bankotsu added, "No one was happy about the curse," He sighed. "It was my idea to tell everyone we were engaged. It would make things much simpler and I didn't want a lot of people knowing…"
Sora nodded. "Please continue."
Kagome sighed heavily. "Bankotsu and his friends joined me and my friends, so that we can stay together and defeat Naraku."
Sora guessed, "And Inuyasha wasn't happy about it."
They both nodded.
Sora looked at Bankotsu. "What about you? Do you actually care for my daughter?"
Bankotsu nodded and answered truthfully, "Yes, I care for your daughter. She is my friend and it is now my duty to protect her."
Sora nodded happily. "You certainly are strong." She smiled. "I believe you will protect her."
'I'm not happy about getting lied to…. but I can understand why they did it.' Grandpa asked curiously, "What about Inuyasha? Won't he get mad?"
"Inuyasha is already mad," Kagome replied clearly annoyed.
"Kagome and I are friends now, which is going to make him even angrier," Bankotsu added, "but, he will have to deal with it." With serious eyes, he declared fiercely, "It's mine and Kagome's lives at stake. I refuse to let anything happen to her!"
'I just know that this man would never harm Kagome. He's very protective of her and I don't think it's just because of the curse…. I wonder how long it will be until they discover their true feelings for each other.' Sora nodded and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Take care of each other."
They nodded and replied in unison, "We will."
Sora announced, "Kagome, Grandpa and I are going to the store. I left a list of chores for you to do. I expect them done when I get home."
Kagome sighed. "Yes Mama."
Sora faced Bankotsu. "Bankotsu, would you be a dear and help Kagome with her chores?"
Bankotsu mumbled, "Yeah sure."
"Good," Sora nodded and added, "Oh, and your clothes are clean and sitting on your bed."
"Thanks, Mama," Kagome replied. "Could you pick up some chocolate ice cream too please? Also I am going to need to re-stock on medical supplies before we return."
Sora grinned. "You two will have the place to yourselves for a few hours."
Kagome gasped turning beet red and yelled, "Mama!"
Sora laughed as she and Grandpa left.
Bankotsu smirked with relief twinkling in his blue eyes. "So, your mom seems okay with things."
Kagome smiled brightly and stated affectionately, "Yeah, she's always been pretty understanding."
Wiggling his eye brows suggestively, Bankotsu chuckled, "And, we have the place to ourselves, eh?"
Kagome nodded, "Yup, but first we better get those chores done." She quickly walked into the kitchen.
'She totally missed what I was implying.' Bankotsu followed her, still chuckling.
She found the list on the table and picked it up and read it out loud. "Sweep and mop the floors. Take out the trash. Wash and dry the dishes." She looked at Bankotsu and suggested, "Well, I guess we will start with the trash first."
He nodded. "Whatever works for you."
They gathered the trash.
Bankotsu carried it out side.
Kagome showed him where to put it.
Next they walked into the kitchen and stood side by side. She explained how the sink worked and washed the dishes.
He rinsed the dishes and set them in the drainer. He stood there gazing at the girl beside him, watching the sun shine on her through the window. 'Wow, she really is pretty… no she's beautiful and spirited. I like the way she melts in my arms. Speaking of which…'
He backed her up to the cabinet and, used his arms to trap her. 'Now then,' He smirked.
Kagome blinked as she felt the back of her hips hit the counter. Her breath hitched nervously as Bankotsu moved closer, staring at her with a wolfish grin. "Uh Bankotsu, what are you doing?"
"This," he breathed, slowly leaning in for a kiss. He stopped only an inch from her face, staring into her eyes and licking his lips. 'Damn I want to taste her so bad, but I don't want to scare her.'
Her heart raced inside her chest as she looked into his eyes. 'Why did he stop? What is he waiting for?' She eyes fell to his firm lips and she licked her lips. 'Damn why doesn't he just kiss me already? Could he be giving me a choice?' She took a deep breath and reached up, pressing her lips against his jaw.
'Finally she figured it out. Good girl.' He lips tilted at the corners as she slowly kissed her way over to his lips. He captured her lips in a fierce kiss and wrapped his arms around her waist, fitting their bodies together.
She broke the kiss and moaned as his kisses trailed along her collar bone. She placed her hands on his broad shoulders and said softly, "Ban... kotsu..."
He pulled back to look into her eyes. Realizing that she wasn't ready to go any further yet, he bit back a sigh, removing his hands and stepped back.
She gave a small. "Thanks."
He smiled and nodded. 'If it means that she will participate rather than me doing all the kissing, I can wait a little while.'
She jumped down and pulled out the broom, dust pan, the mop and bucket. She began sweeping the floors.
He filled the bucket and mopped the floors.
After the floors had been finished, they emptied the bucket and wrung out the mop. They put everything away.
When all of the chores were done, they walked into the living room.
Kagome turned the TV on and put on Naruto.
'Hm, judging by how excited she got and how she's practically glued to everything happening on that sill box, this must be Kagome's favorite show,' He sat there with her while she watched it.
'No reason I can't amuse myself as well, right?' His hand played with her hair and he slowly trailed his tongue down the side of her neck, alternating between kisses and light sucks.
By the time the commercials came on, Kagome could barely think and was blushing.
He smirked and pulled back staring into her eyes.
She asked breathlessly, "What are you doing, Bankotsu?"
He smiled and shrugged. "I was bored so I thought I would amuse myself," he replied, eyes dancing with laughter.
Kagome blinked and then glared at him. "Well, stop it. I'm not a damn toy."
Bankotsu grinned. 'That's what you think sweetheart.'
Kagome huffed. She stood up and walked into the kitchen.
'You're not getting away that easy,' Bankotsu followed her.
She pulled out the stuff and began making tea.
He stood there watching her. 'Heh, what's got her so upset?'
The tea finished and she set it on the table.
The bell rang and she answered the door.
Bankotsu was close behind her.
Kagome gasped in surprise and her eyes widened in shock. "Yuka, what are you doing here?"
'Hm, did I interrupt something? Kagome sure is looking a bit flushed.' Yuka smiled. "Hey Kagome, just thought I would come by for a visit."
Kagome smiled and said, "How nice of you."
Bankotsu's eyes widened. 'It's one of those three annoying chits from the other day, eh? So what does she want?'
"I'm not interrupting anything am I?" Yuka asked smiling at her friend.
"Um… not really," Kagome said. "We were just sitting down to tea."
Yuka's face lit up. She asked with a hopeful look, "Your semi famous herbal tea?"
'Well it is her favorite…' Kagome bit back a sigh. "Come on in."
Yuka stepped inside.
Kagome led her to the kitchen, where she made another cup of tea.
The trio sat at the table and sipped their tea.
Yuka asked, "So have you seen Hojo lately?"
Kagome became blinked and wrung her hands in her lap, as she saw Bankotsu's eyes narrow. She answered, "Yeah, um, he came by just the other day actually."
Yuka smiled. "I bet you were happy, huh?" She added, "At least he comes to visit you when you're sick."
Kagome sighed.
Bankotsu arched a brow questioningly at Kagome.
She sent him a look that clearly stated she would tell him later.
Bankotsu nodded.
"Seriously, Kagome what did you ever see in that jerk, anyway?" Yuka asked. "You already said that he was two timing you." Yuka clucked her tongue disapprovingly.
She smiled. "Anyways, I'm glad that you found a better man, like this guy here."
"Uh Yuka, now really isn't the time," Kagome said nervously, glancing at Bankotsu.
Bankotsu sat up straight, listening intently.
Oblivious to her friend's growing nervousness, Yuka continued. "You could really do so much better than that jerk, Inuyasha."
Kagome's breath hitched nervously.
Bankotsu jumped to his feet. "Inuyasha, that's who she has been talking about?"
Kagome's eyes widened. 'Oh shit, here it comes…'
Bankotsu glared at Kagome. "I thought you said you two were just friends, Kagome?" he demanded, with anger and something else she couldn't quite make out was clear in his eyes.
'I really wish Yuka hadn't brought this up.' Kagome retorted, "We are just friends!"
'Did I say something that upset him?' Yuka's eyes widened. She shifted nervously and sent an apologetic look at Kagome. "Um I'm sorry Kagome, I didn't think..."
"It's okay, Yuka." Kagome sighed heavily and replied. "But you should probably leave for now."
Yuka nodded and stood. After one last apologetic look at Kagome, she hurried out of the door.
Anger rolling off of him in waves, Bankotsu glared at Yuka's retreating back.
The tension in the air suddenly became so thick that you could cut it with a butter knife.
Feeling her own temper rise, Kagome turned and snapped, "What do you care, Bankotsu?"
Bankotsu glared at her and bit out through clenched teeth, "Inuyasha is a no good half-breed. You told me you were just friends, yet that girl just acted like you and Inuyasha are together. Now which is it, Kagome?" He crossed his arms over his chest staring down at her.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Meanwhile in the Feudal Era Inuyasha was in a tree away from the others. 'I still can't believe that Kagome turned to that fucking mercenary for comfort, instead of turning to me.' He glared at the stars, feeling angry and hurt that she had turned away from him.
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Author's Note: Okay guys and gals there is the improved chapter nine. Please remember to read and review thanks.
I only own the plot, and story line to this story and Tara. There. I said it. (sighs)
Chapter Nine:
Kagome's Turn and Yuka's Blunder:
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO - - DREAM SEQUENCE - - XOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Kagome was sitting in the woods relaxing against a tree, when she heard a woman's voice.
"Kagome wake up child."
Kagome opened her eyes and blinked. Before her eyes stood the ghost of a powerful woman, who seemed vaguely familiar. Kagome asked, "Eh, who... who are you?"
The ghost replied, "I am the priestess who created the Shikon No Tama."
Kagome gasped, "Midoriko?"
The ghostly figure nodded. "Yes, child, now listen carefully: I have done what I can to try to counter act Naraku's spell."
"Who are you?" demanded a male voice from the shadows.
Kagome blinked. "Bankotsu… How are you here?" She asked.
He walked out of some nearby trees, to stand protectively in front of Kagome. He stared at the ghost. "I asked you a question specter."
"I am the creator of the Shikon jewel," Midoriko replied. "And I am the one who has bound you and the priestess's souls together."
His eyes narrowed and Bankotsu demanded, "What? Why?"
Midoriko explained, "I did so in order for you and the priestess to defeat Naraku. You two must work together! If you do not, the past will only repeat itself."
Kagome frowned. "You're referring to what happened with Inuyasha and Kikyo, aren't you, Midoriko?"
The ghost nodded and continued, "What I have done, is entwined your soul with the mercenary's soul for two reasons. One: To help you two understand one another, which is why you can enter one another's dreams. Two: In order to teach you to recognize, and appreciate each others inner strengths, as well as to draw on each others strengths."
Seeing the question burning in their eyes, she explained, "This way, even though Kagome is physically weaker and the easier target, you will both be able to protect one another. She will be strengthened by drawing on the bond between you and thus prolonging your lives together."
Kagome gasped in surprise.
Bankotsu frowned. "So you are telling us that you forced us to open up to one another?"
"No!" Midoriko corrected. "You two already showed concern for one another, so I knew my spell would help bring those feelings to the surface. However, the bonding which you two have done - has been just that."
She assured, "I have not tinkered with your emotions at all. Your emotions for one another are just that. I simply helped bring them to the surface. No spell could ever force you two to bond, unless you wished to already. "
Holding hands, they both nodded.
Midoriko added, "You two will be waking up soon but remember this: your bond is your biggest advantage, and if you two bond close enough, you will eventually be able to 'feel' each other's emotions; as well as speak to each other telepathically."
She smiled at them, making them feel warm and drowsy."This is all I can do for you two; the rest is up to you. Good luck."
Midoriko's ghost faded away.
XOXOXOXOXOXO - - END DREAM SEQUENCE - - XOXOXOXOXOXO
They woke up cuddled together and stared at each other a minute. Both were blinking and trying to take in what the dream had revealed to them.
Kagome asked nervously, "Did you, ah... see Midoriko?"
Bankotsu replied in a somewhat shocked voice, "Yeah." He looked at her and asked, "So now what?"
Kagome stood up.
Bankotsu also stood up and pulled on his shirt.
Kagome faced him. "Are you hungry?"
"Yeah," Bankotsu stared at her.
Kagome led him by the hand into the kitchen and busied herself making omelets.
He stood with the back of his hips leaning against the cabinet. "Do you know where Midoriko came from?"
Kagome nodded and continued making the omelets. "When we first met Sango, she explained that Midoriko was the creator of the sacred jewel, and had been from her village."
Bankotsu nodded, and tilted his head a bit to the side. "So this Midoriko… was a ninja?"
Kagome laughed musically. "No, not a ninja," she corrected him. "She was a demon slayer and a priestess."
Bankotsu looked thoughtful a moment. "That Kohaku kid… he has the same type of armor as your friend," he stated, "So he is from the village as well?"
"He is Sango's brother. Naraku killed their village and then tried to control both Sango and Kohaku," Kagome answered sadly.
More to himself, than to her, Bankotsu voiced, "I thought there was a connection."
Kagome nodded. Having finished making the food, she set their plates on the table.
They sat down.
Bankotsu raised a brow at Kagome and then pointed at the food. "What is this?" curiously.
Kagome smiled. "It's called an omelet and it is really good, so eat up."
He nodded, taking his fork and cut a piece off. He held it up looking at it and sniffing it. He cautiously put it in his mouth and smiled. He swallowed and exclaimed happily, "Hey this is good!" He finished eating.
Kagome chuckled and kept eating.
Afterwards, Kagome did the dishes and they walked outside.
She walked over to the sacred tree and placed a hand lovingly on the tree.
Bankotsu raised a brow. "What are you doing?"
Kagome sighed happily and replied, "Remembering." She explained, "This Sacred tree is the same one that is by the Bone Eaters well in your time. It's where I first met Inuyasha, and it is where my father proposed to my mother." She spoke in a soft voice.
Bankotsu glared at the mention of Inuyasha. "What's the deal with you and that hanyou, anyway? Are you two together or what?"
Kagome sighed heavily and answered sadly. "No, we are not together." Her eyes filled with sorrow as she whispered, "I am just his friend."
Bankotsu sat down with his back against the tree and then reached up, yanking her into his lap.
Her eyes widened in shock and then she smiled sadly. "He needs me to find the jewel shards for him. We are friends. No matter how much I try, I cannot compete with Kikyo - she will always hold his heart." She whispered the last part. A few silent tears fell down her cheeks.
Bankotsu cupped her face in his hands and gently wiped away her tears with his thumbs. He stated seriously, "Inuyasha is a fool. You are much stronger than any of them realize. That is why Naraku is so scared of you."
Kagome gasped. "Is... is Naraku really that scared of me?"
"Why else would he be so determined to separate you from Inuyasha and the others all the time?" Bankotsu replied. "Kagura told me about all the times he has tried to get you away from the others."
Feeling dejected, Kagome looked away. "But Kikyo is stronger than I am, and she - "
Bankotsu snapped, "Is that you or the mutt talking?"
Kagome blinked a minute. "But..."
Bankotsu stared her dead in the eye. "Listen to me, Kagome. Your Miko powers are not at their fullest potential yet," He informed her dead seriously,. "Kikyo's are... even a dead mercenary like me can tell you have the potential to surpass that dead priestess. Naraku knows this and fears it."
Kagome was so shocked that for once she was actually speechless.
Bankotsu continued bitterly, "If that stupid mutt is too damn blind to see what's in front of him, then he doesn't deserve you or your feelings for him!" Bankotsu sighed. "He isn't a good leader from what I have seen, in fact; he is only trying to do the same thing as Naraku - which is to become a full demon."
Kagome's eyes widened and she gasped. "He isn't heartless like Naraku. Inuyasha has a heart, he just he loves Kikyo."
Bankotsu snorted. 'Is she that far gone on that stupid Inutrasha?'
Kagome tapped her chin. 'I never thought of it that way… Bankotsu actually brings up a valid point. Still… I doubt Inuyasha would be so heartless.'
She stared into his eyes. "I doubt Inuyasha would be as cruel as Naraku, but, yes he is planning to use the Sacred jewel to become a full demon. He loves Kikyo - "
Bankotsu mentioned dryly, "And not you, right?"
Feeling her heart ache at the knowledge, Kagome nodded and started crying. "I'll never compare to Kikyo in his eyes."
Bankotsu placed her head on his chest. He asked frustrated, "Why do you care about what Inutrasha thinks?"
Her head came up and her eyes narrowed. "His name is Inuyasha. And I care because he is my friend."
Bankotsu demanded in a fierce voice, "Or is he something more?"
Kagome looked to the side avoiding his eyes.
A frown appeared on his face. 'What does she see in that damn half breed anyway?' He reached out grasping her chin forcing her to look him in the eyes and said. "If he's too blind to see what's staring him right in the face, then let him lose it - it'll be his loss."
She asked quietly, "Do you know the story of what happened fifty years ago?"
He replied evenly, "Naraku said that Inuyasha loved that dead priestess and that she sealed him to the tree." He frowned and asked, "Do you perhaps know why?"
She nodded. "It's true; Kikyo and Inuyasha loved each other. But, a bandit named Onigumo, who later became Naraku, plotted to tear them apart. He disguised himself as Inuyasha and attacked Kikyo, and then disguised himself as Kikyo and had a spat with Inuyasha."
She wiped her eyes and continued. "Inuyasha stole the sacred jewel which Kikyo had been guarding and Kikyo caught him and then sealed him to the tree." She sighed heavily and finished bitterly, "Naraku tricked them into thinking they had betrayed each other."
'This means she should know much more about Naraku…' Bankotsu took a moment to soak in this new information. "What exactly do you know about Naraku?" he demanded.
Kagome's teeth ground together. "I know that he likes to play mind games and turn people against each other. After he has amused himself by playing mind games, he turns serious and tries to destroy you."
Bankotsu sighed heavily. 'What the hell did I get us into?'
"Why did you agree to work for him?" Kagome asked concern in her voice and eyes.
Bankotsu sighed heavily. "He said that if me and my comrades worked for him and destroyed his enemies, that our renewed lives would be everlasting," he answered.
He took a deep breath and finished sadly, "I wanted a second chance for me and my brothers."
Kagome placed a small hand on his large shoulder. "I'm sorry, Bankotsu."
Bankotsu's hand settled on top of hers and squeezed it lightly. "It will all work out," he said with a small smile.
"What we need to do, is find a way for you to live without those jewel shards," Kagome declared.
Bankotsu sighed heavily and nodded.
She hugged him tightly and said softly, "We have just started to become friends and I don't want to lose you."
He smiled and hugged her back. "You won't lose me! I am not about to let that bastard Naraku kill me and my remaining brothers!" Dropping his arms, he added bitterly, "Plus, I still have to find that monster and kill it too."
She nodded, and then buried her head in his chest. "I will help you, and I will do everything I can to try and save Ryori for you."
He blinked. "I appreciate the offer Kagome, but I doubt Ryori even exists anymore," he replied sadly.
Kagome countered, "Well we won't know until we try."
He sighed heavily and declared fiercely, "I won't let you get hurt, Kagome. I will handle that monster that inhabited my brother's body alone."
"Like it or not I am going to help you find him," Kagome retorted sternly. "We can't be apart, remember?"
His hands returned to her hips and held her tighter. His body tensed up as it went ram rod straight.
"Besides, it's just the way I am," she confessed softly. "If one of my friends is hurting, I do whatever I can to cheer them up."
She made him look into her eyes. "Even cold-blooded killers have to have some kind of heart. You're not as unfeeling as most people think."
Noticing the confusion in his eyes, she continued, "I have always admired your strength. Plus, you are a good leader from what I have seen so far." She confirmed, "Bankotsu I want... no, I need to help you."
Bankotsu blinked. 'How can one girl have such a caring heart and strong will?' He felt his once icy heart melt a little more. He slowly relaxed, as his hold became gentle once more. He held her just enjoying having her in his arms. 'I can't believe how much she really cares about me. Is this girl for real?'
Remembering her tears from earlier, he sighed heavily. "Are you feeling better?"
She answered shyly, "A little, thanks."
He smiled and nodded. He stood up and helped her to her feet. "Because if you aren't," he mentioned, "I can always show you how beautiful you are."
Slowly, while holding her gaze, he lowered his head and claimed her mouth in a tender kiss.
As his tongue caressed hers, her head spun from the sheer pleasure.
He broke the kiss and spoke in a husky timber. "Do you think I would kiss just anyone like that?"
She shook her head side to side.
He smiled and assured her, "You are one of the most beautiful girls that I have ever seen." He added mentally, 'And I am having a hard time keeping my lips to myself.'
She giggled as he nuzzled his head against the crook of her neck. She pushed against his chest, and he reluctantly let her go.
He looked into her smiling face. 'Looks like she's feeling better now,' he thought, puffing his chest out.
Kagome smiled. 'He's so sweet for cheering me up.' After a minute, she pulled out of his arms and showed him around the outside of the shrine.
A car passed by.
Bankotsu jumped a little and glared at it. "What the hell was that?"
She giggled and then explained what the car was and what it was used for.
After a while they walked back inside the house.
Sora and Grandpa were in the kitchen drinking tea.
XOXOXOXOXO
Unbeknown to the people inside the house, the shrine house glowed with a bright blue light that quickly faded.
The doors were flung open. Inuyasha's eyes narrowed as he stormed over to the main house. 'How dare he? I'll show him not to order me around like some misguided pup!' His fists clenched, aching to smack into that arrogant teenage leader's face.
XOXOXOXOXO
Kagome and Bankotsu were just sitting down at the table to enjoy some tea.
Inuyasha stormed in glaring at them. "How dare you tell me to stay? I don't care if you are bound to that bastard Bankotsu through Naraku's spell - you are coming with me Kagome, now!" He reached out for Kagome.
Her eyes widened in shock until his words registered. Her face became bright red and her nostrils flared. Her eyes narrowed. "Inuyasha sit boy!"
Inuyasha plummeted to the floor.
Kagome's eyes filled with hurt and tears. She sobbed brokenly, "Inuyasha, how could you?"
Hearing Inuyasha's outburst, Sora and Grandpa's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Kagome dear, is what Inuyasha just said true?" Sora asked, with eyes filled with worry for her daughter.
'I can't believe he did that.' Unable to face anyone at the moment, Kagome threw herself into Bankotsu's chest and sobbed, clinging as if he were her lifeline.
Bankotsu's chest heaved with barely contained anger. He instinctively wrapped his arms around Kagome to comfort her. He glared at the half-breed. "What the hell are you doing here, Inuyasha?"
He seethed, "You just couldn't stay away like you were told, could you? You just had to come and make Kagome cry, didn't you?" His jaw clenched
Kagome continued to cry.
Bankotsu held her while glaring angrily at Inuyasha. . 'Fucking worthless half breed, he just couldn't let her not cry!'
Inuyasha's eyes widened in shock as he saw Kagome fling herself into Bankotsu's arms, and then narrowed in anger and jealousy as he saw Bankotsu hold Kagome to his chest.
He snarled in frustration as Bankotsu yelled at him.
While rubbing one hand up and down her back soothingly, Bankotsu held Kagome gently, and soothed, "It will be alright, Kagome, don't cry."
Inuyasha cast a hopeful glance towards Kagome, but noticed the glare Bankotsu was giving him.
Sora walked over to place a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Kagome dear, does this mean that you two are not really engaged?"
Kagome looked up at her mother with a sorrow filled expression. "Mama, I..." her voice quivered, tears forming in her eyes. 'I lied to my family…' Her heart squeezed painfully and she began crying again.
"Shh, it's okay, dear." Sora opened her arms to Kagome, who accepted the embrace.
Bankotsu dropped his arms sighing heavily, but never took his eyes off of Inuyasha.
Feeling contrite Inuyasha started to apologize, "Kagome, I..."
Desperately needing comfort, Kagome instinctively moved closer to Bankotsu and sobbed into his chest again. 'Right now Bankotsu is the only one who can truly understand how I am feeling.' Her arms went around his waist as she nuzzled her face into his chest.
Sensing that she needed it, Bankotsu's muscular arms held Kagome. He kept glaring at Inuyasha, clearly warning him to back off.
Inuyasha's ears flattened as his head fell to his chest. He stood there looking dejected. 'I can't believe she went to him for comfort…'
Taking a deep breath, Kagome answered softly, "Yes, Mama, I'm sorry we lied to you all."She sniffed. "Naraku did curse us, and we can't leave each others sides."
Sora gasped. "I thought you two were friends?"
Kagome looked up. "We are friends Mama, at least now we are," she answered with a small smile.
Inuyasha's ears twitched and his head snapped up in shock at Kagome's words. 'What the fuck does she mean they are friends?'
Blue eyes spitting fire, Bankotsu demanded, "Are you happy now, Inuyasha?"
Inuyasha glowered at the teenage male. "I - "
Kagome turned to face Inuyasha and looked directly into his eyes. "Inuyasha, I think you should return to the Feudal Era."
Inuyasha gazed intently into her eyes. 'Damnit the hurt in Kagome's eyes is too much.' He dropped his eyes from hers. 'I didn't mean to hurt her; I was trying to protect her.' His ears flattened to his head and his chest squeezed.
He sighed heavily and then slowly walked over towards the well. He stopped and turned to send one longingly in the direction of the house and heaved one last regretful sigh. Turning back around, he jumped into the well.
XOXOXOXOXO
Bankotsu glared after the departing hanyou. He turned to Kagome, eyes softening and used his thumbs to swipe away her tears. "Are you okay?"
Kagome sighed heavily. "I will be. But I think we'd better explain things to Mama."
Bankotsu held her gaze and nodded.
Kagome faced her mom. "Naraku cursed me and Bankotsu, so that we cannot leave each other's sides. We are trying to break the curse, but haven't found out how to yet."
Needing to set things straight with her family, Bankotsu added, "No one was happy about the curse," He sighed. "It was my idea to tell everyone we were engaged. It would make things much simpler and I didn't want a lot of people knowing…"
Sora nodded. "Please continue."
Kagome sighed heavily. "Bankotsu and his friends joined me and my friends, so that we can stay together and defeat Naraku."
Sora guessed, "And Inuyasha wasn't happy about it."
They both nodded.
Sora looked at Bankotsu. "What about you? Do you actually care for my daughter?"
Bankotsu nodded and answered truthfully, "Yes, I care for your daughter. She is my friend and it is now my duty to protect her."
Sora nodded happily. "You certainly are strong." She smiled. "I believe you will protect her."
'I'm not happy about getting lied to…. but I can understand why they did it.' Grandpa asked curiously, "What about Inuyasha? Won't he get mad?"
"Inuyasha is already mad," Kagome replied clearly annoyed.
"Kagome and I are friends now, which is going to make him even angrier," Bankotsu added, "but, he will have to deal with it." With serious eyes, he declared fiercely, "It's mine and Kagome's lives at stake. I refuse to let anything happen to her!"
'I just know that this man would never harm Kagome. He's very protective of her and I don't think it's just because of the curse…. I wonder how long it will be until they discover their true feelings for each other.' Sora nodded and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Take care of each other."
They nodded and replied in unison, "We will."
Sora announced, "Kagome, Grandpa and I are going to the store. I left a list of chores for you to do. I expect them done when I get home."
Kagome sighed. "Yes Mama."
Sora faced Bankotsu. "Bankotsu, would you be a dear and help Kagome with her chores?"
Bankotsu mumbled, "Yeah sure."
"Good," Sora nodded and added, "Oh, and your clothes are clean and sitting on your bed."
"Thanks, Mama," Kagome replied. "Could you pick up some chocolate ice cream too please? Also I am going to need to re-stock on medical supplies before we return."
Sora grinned. "You two will have the place to yourselves for a few hours."
Kagome gasped turning beet red and yelled, "Mama!"
Sora laughed as she and Grandpa left.
Bankotsu smirked with relief twinkling in his blue eyes. "So, your mom seems okay with things."
Kagome smiled brightly and stated affectionately, "Yeah, she's always been pretty understanding."
Wiggling his eye brows suggestively, Bankotsu chuckled, "And, we have the place to ourselves, eh?"
Kagome nodded, "Yup, but first we better get those chores done." She quickly walked into the kitchen.
'She totally missed what I was implying.' Bankotsu followed her, still chuckling.
She found the list on the table and picked it up and read it out loud. "Sweep and mop the floors. Take out the trash. Wash and dry the dishes." She looked at Bankotsu and suggested, "Well, I guess we will start with the trash first."
He nodded. "Whatever works for you."
They gathered the trash.
Bankotsu carried it out side.
Kagome showed him where to put it.
Next they walked into the kitchen and stood side by side. She explained how the sink worked and washed the dishes.
He rinsed the dishes and set them in the drainer. He stood there gazing at the girl beside him, watching the sun shine on her through the window. 'Wow, she really is pretty… no she's beautiful and spirited. I like the way she melts in my arms. Speaking of which…'
He backed her up to the cabinet and, used his arms to trap her. 'Now then,' He smirked.
Kagome blinked as she felt the back of her hips hit the counter. Her breath hitched nervously as Bankotsu moved closer, staring at her with a wolfish grin. "Uh Bankotsu, what are you doing?"
"This," he breathed, slowly leaning in for a kiss. He stopped only an inch from her face, staring into her eyes and licking his lips. 'Damn I want to taste her so bad, but I don't want to scare her.'
Her heart raced inside her chest as she looked into his eyes. 'Why did he stop? What is he waiting for?' She eyes fell to his firm lips and she licked her lips. 'Damn why doesn't he just kiss me already? Could he be giving me a choice?' She took a deep breath and reached up, pressing her lips against his jaw.
'Finally she figured it out. Good girl.' He lips tilted at the corners as she slowly kissed her way over to his lips. He captured her lips in a fierce kiss and wrapped his arms around her waist, fitting their bodies together.
She broke the kiss and moaned as his kisses trailed along her collar bone. She placed her hands on his broad shoulders and said softly, "Ban... kotsu..."
He pulled back to look into her eyes. Realizing that she wasn't ready to go any further yet, he bit back a sigh, removing his hands and stepped back.
She gave a small. "Thanks."
He smiled and nodded. 'If it means that she will participate rather than me doing all the kissing, I can wait a little while.'
She jumped down and pulled out the broom, dust pan, the mop and bucket. She began sweeping the floors.
He filled the bucket and mopped the floors.
After the floors had been finished, they emptied the bucket and wrung out the mop. They put everything away.
When all of the chores were done, they walked into the living room.
Kagome turned the TV on and put on Naruto.
'Hm, judging by how excited she got and how she's practically glued to everything happening on that sill box, this must be Kagome's favorite show,' He sat there with her while she watched it.
'No reason I can't amuse myself as well, right?' His hand played with her hair and he slowly trailed his tongue down the side of her neck, alternating between kisses and light sucks.
By the time the commercials came on, Kagome could barely think and was blushing.
He smirked and pulled back staring into her eyes.
She asked breathlessly, "What are you doing, Bankotsu?"
He smiled and shrugged. "I was bored so I thought I would amuse myself," he replied, eyes dancing with laughter.
Kagome blinked and then glared at him. "Well, stop it. I'm not a damn toy."
Bankotsu grinned. 'That's what you think sweetheart.'
Kagome huffed. She stood up and walked into the kitchen.
'You're not getting away that easy,' Bankotsu followed her.
She pulled out the stuff and began making tea.
He stood there watching her. 'Heh, what's got her so upset?'
The tea finished and she set it on the table.
The bell rang and she answered the door.
Bankotsu was close behind her.
Kagome gasped in surprise and her eyes widened in shock. "Yuka, what are you doing here?"
'Hm, did I interrupt something? Kagome sure is looking a bit flushed.' Yuka smiled. "Hey Kagome, just thought I would come by for a visit."
Kagome smiled and said, "How nice of you."
Bankotsu's eyes widened. 'It's one of those three annoying chits from the other day, eh? So what does she want?'
"I'm not interrupting anything am I?" Yuka asked smiling at her friend.
"Um… not really," Kagome said. "We were just sitting down to tea."
Yuka's face lit up. She asked with a hopeful look, "Your semi famous herbal tea?"
'Well it is her favorite…' Kagome bit back a sigh. "Come on in."
Yuka stepped inside.
Kagome led her to the kitchen, where she made another cup of tea.
The trio sat at the table and sipped their tea.
Yuka asked, "So have you seen Hojo lately?"
Kagome became blinked and wrung her hands in her lap, as she saw Bankotsu's eyes narrow. She answered, "Yeah, um, he came by just the other day actually."
Yuka smiled. "I bet you were happy, huh?" She added, "At least he comes to visit you when you're sick."
Kagome sighed.
Bankotsu arched a brow questioningly at Kagome.
She sent him a look that clearly stated she would tell him later.
Bankotsu nodded.
"Seriously, Kagome what did you ever see in that jerk, anyway?" Yuka asked. "You already said that he was two timing you." Yuka clucked her tongue disapprovingly.
She smiled. "Anyways, I'm glad that you found a better man, like this guy here."
"Uh Yuka, now really isn't the time," Kagome said nervously, glancing at Bankotsu.
Bankotsu sat up straight, listening intently.
Oblivious to her friend's growing nervousness, Yuka continued. "You could really do so much better than that jerk, Inuyasha."
Kagome's breath hitched nervously.
Bankotsu jumped to his feet. "Inuyasha, that's who she has been talking about?"
Kagome's eyes widened. 'Oh shit, here it comes…'
Bankotsu glared at Kagome. "I thought you said you two were just friends, Kagome?" he demanded, with anger and something else she couldn't quite make out was clear in his eyes.
'I really wish Yuka hadn't brought this up.' Kagome retorted, "We are just friends!"
'Did I say something that upset him?' Yuka's eyes widened. She shifted nervously and sent an apologetic look at Kagome. "Um I'm sorry Kagome, I didn't think..."
"It's okay, Yuka." Kagome sighed heavily and replied. "But you should probably leave for now."
Yuka nodded and stood. After one last apologetic look at Kagome, she hurried out of the door.
Anger rolling off of him in waves, Bankotsu glared at Yuka's retreating back.
The tension in the air suddenly became so thick that you could cut it with a butter knife.
Feeling her own temper rise, Kagome turned and snapped, "What do you care, Bankotsu?"
Bankotsu glared at her and bit out through clenched teeth, "Inuyasha is a no good half-breed. You told me you were just friends, yet that girl just acted like you and Inuyasha are together. Now which is it, Kagome?" He crossed his arms over his chest staring down at her.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Meanwhile in the Feudal Era Inuyasha was in a tree away from the others. 'I still can't believe that Kagome turned to that fucking mercenary for comfort, instead of turning to me.' He glared at the stars, feeling angry and hurt that she had turned away from him.
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Author's Note: Okay guys and gals there is the improved chapter nine. Please remember to read and review thanks.