InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Bankotsu&Kitra: Past Relations ❯ five ( Chapter 5 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: kittyb78 
5
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Adventure | Type: Fanfiction Sequel | Uploaded On: 07.30.2008 | Updated On: 03.27.2009 | Pages: 5 | Words: 4.4K | Visits: 129 | Status: Work In Progress
5
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Adventure | Type: Fanfiction Sequel | Uploaded On: 07.30.2008 | Updated On: 03.27.2009 | Pages: 5 | Words: 4.4K | Visits: 129 | Status: Work In Progress
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha! I do own Kitra, Darius, Kou, Nenji, and Tao, Sura, and Lovu and the plot, and story line... There. I said it. (sighs)
Most importantly I would like to give a BIG shout out and HUGE thanks to my beta Frog Lady! :)
Chapter 5:
A noon time meal:
Just outside of the village, Kitra stopped. "Ban, I don't wasn't to be a burden to anyone! Promise me that if I become a nuisance or burden, you’ll tell me immediately!" she stated, staring him dead in the eye.
Bankotsu scoffed and said seriously, "Kitra, you could never be a burden! You’re too kind, generous, sweet, caring, funny, not to mention beautiful- Whoever considered you a burden was an absolute fool!"
Kitra crossed her arms in front of her chest, planting her feet shoulder-width apart, and demanded, "Promise me Bankotsu!"
Bankotsu sighed heavily used a hand to pull her closer to him and said resigned, "Fine, I promise."
She huffed and insisted; "Like you mean it!" she was very adamant and refused to back down on this.
Bankotsu sighed heavily and mentioned seriously, "I promise," He quickly captured both of her hands, putting them behind her back and with one of his own held them there. He placed his free hand on her shapely hip, pulling her body closer to his and looked directly in her eyes. "Now, you promise me, Kitra, that you won't run off alone, nor will you try to run away under any circumstances!" he demanded, eyes dead serious. He was tired of having to chase her down.
Kitra looked him in the eyes sighing heavily and replied, "I promise," He nodded, kissing her forehead affectionately like he’d done so many times before when they were kids, released her hands, and suggested, "Now let's go meet with the others." He held out his hand and without hesitation, she placed her smaller hand into it. Uncaring of whether anyone else liked it or not, he gently held her hand and they walked over to the tavern.
Inside the tavern:
Bankotsu spotted the others as soon as he and Kitra entered the tavern. He placed a hand on the small of her back and escorted them over to the table.
Jakotsu stood and greeted, "Hey, big brother, little sister. Are you feeling better now?" concern in his big grey eyes.
"Yes Ja," Kitra answered, "thanks for asking." Jakotsu nodded and smiled.
Bankotsu sat down and pulled Kitra to sit beside him. Everyone else sat back down. Renkotsu frowned and asked, "Since when does Jakotsu care about any woman?"
Jakotsu scowled angrily at him and answered seriously, "Normally I don't- but little sister isn't just any woman!” remembering what she’d said to Bankotsu earlier, he added, “She has a big heart and has been through a lot; she’s a special woman, and one I’ll proudly call my 'little sister' any day," resolution in his eyes.
Kitra blushed, saying gratefully, "Thank you Ja," Jakotsu smiled and nodded. Grateful that his friend had accepted her so easily, Bankotsu hid a smile.
Renkotsu snickered teasing, "Better watch it or Jakotsu might just end up with a girl after all," happy to get under the feminine man’s skin for once.
"Watch your tongue, Renkotsu! Or else I’ll cut it out for you!" Jakotsu fumed, while glaring at said man.
Bankotsu laughed and said seriously, "Enough! Renkotsu, leave Jakotsu alone. Jakotsu, just ignore him." not in the mood to play referee. Jakotsu stuck his tongue out at Renkotsu and pouted. Renkotsu shivered and shook his head.
Kitra smiled as did Bankotsu. "Hey Ja, if you’d like, I could help you prepare for the festival tonight," she offered.
Jakotsu's face lit up as he responded, "Really? I so love the way you did your hair!" pointing to her hair.
Kitra laughed and said, "Thanks, if you like I can do yours this way as well?" Jakotsu's eyes lit up and he nodded eagerly. Kitra beamed.
Bankotsu looked on with pride as his close friend of many years and his best friend's sister appeared to get along rather well all things considered. Suikotsu looked at his ‘little sister’ and decided that if she could so quickly get past Jakotsu's defenses and win him over, then she just might be okay after all. Renkotsu glared at Kitra thoroughly disgusted with her presence and even more with her ‘goodliness’ it completed sickened him.
Bankotsu saw Renkotsu glaring at Kitra and questioned, "Problem, Ren?" staring directly at his second in command.
Renkotsu shook his head and answered, "No big brother." he stood up and walked over to the bar.
Bankotsu sighed shaking his head. "What is it?" Kitra asked quietly.
"It's ok, Kit," Bankotsu answered, not wanting to alarm her. Kitra covered his hand with her own and gave it a reassuring squeeze. Bankotsu looked at their hands and nodded.
"Are you sure?" she queried softly, and raised a brow questioningly.
Touched by her concern, Bankotsu he hid a smile answering; "Yeah, I’m sure." she smiled and went back to talking with Jakotsu about the festival.
Sura sashayed over. "So, big man, what will it be?" she asked while eyeing Bankotsu lustfully. Kitra stared at her a moment, then went back to talking with Suikotsu and Jakotsu.
"Four plates of food and four cups of sake’," Bankotsu answered.
"Water is fine for me," Kitra corrected him evenly. She didn’t drink and wasn’t going to start now.
Bankotsu raised a brow questioningly and Kitra shrugged. He nodded and added, "Alright, three sake’ and one water."
Sura leaned over, making sure to give all the guys a good show, and purred, "Lemme get you some fresh napkins."
Kitra and Jakotsu rolled their eyes and pretended to gag, and then they looked at each other and laughed together. Suikotsu raised a brow questioningly and Bankotsu looked at the two of them with a blank look.
Kitra sighed heavily and scooted closer over to Jakotsu so they could talk quietly about the clothes and such. Bankotsu raised a brow at them and questioned, "Alright, what's going on?"
Jakotsu smiled and answered, "Girl talk big brother, you know, clothes and such." Bankotsu rolled his eyes.
"Ja, why don't we go up to my room after we eat and we can get ready then, 'k?" Kitra suggested aloud, with an innocent look on her face.
Jakotsu grinned and nodded eagerly. Bankotsu sighed heavily, and then pulled Kitra closer to him again. "Out with it, I know you are up to something!" he demanded, staring directly into her eyes.
Kitra held his gaze and smiled as she said, "Oh really?" with a twinkle in her eyes.
"I know you better than most," Bankotsu stated. "You’re definitely planning something! Now what is it?"
Kitra grinned and answered sweetly, "I guess you’ll just have to wait and see, huh?"
Jakotsu nodded eagerly, grinning as well. Bankotsu huffed and warned, "Kitra,"
She kissed his cheek lightly and assured, "Relax Ban, it's nothing bad, okay?" staring into his eyes.
Bankotsu sighed heavily and mentioned sarcastically, "Your schemes are never bad."
Kitra smiled brilliantly and replied cheerily, "There now, see, I knew you’d understand!"
Bankotsu shook his head and sighed. Suikotsu cleared his throat and announced, "Oh, look, the food is here."
Bankotsu grabbed his cup of sake’ and gulped it down. Kitra leaned over and whispered teasingly in his ear, "Try not to get to drunk tonight, or I’ll just have to have Ja escort me to the festival."
"Don't worry princess," Bankotsu scowled and snapped, "I won't forget your festival."
Kitra scowled back and huffed, "I’m not a princess, you jerk!" She scooted over towards Jakotsu, who was sitting by the edge of the table, saying, "Excuse me, Ja."
Jakotsu moved and Kitra moved to get up from the table announcing, "I’m going to just start getting ready now." she stood up and slid out of the booth.
"Wait up little sister," Jakotsu hollered, "I’ll go now as well!" Kitra nodded, Jakotsu ran over to her and they walked up to Kitra's room.
Bankotsu scowled and looked at his sake. Suikotsu hid a smile and stated, "That girl has got one helluva temper, doesn't she?"
Bankotsu scowled and answered dryly, "You have no idea," remembering how feisty she’s always been.
Suikotsu laughed and suggested, "Come on, let's eat up." as he noticed his leader’s state of frustration.
"She didn't even eat," Bankotsu sighed and complained, staring at her untouched plate.
"There will be plenty to eat at the festival," Suikotsu reminded him. "She’ll be okay." Bankotsu sighed heavily drinking the last of his sake’ and ate his food.
Getting ready for the festival:
Kitra and Jakotsu entered Kitra's room. She suggested, "Ok Ja, take a few minutes to go change into your kimono, while I change into my pale green set. Then we can worry about our hair, 'k?"
Jakotsu nodded and left to change into his lavender kimono. After changing clothes, Kitra sat on the bed and waited for him to return.
A few minutes later, he knocked on the door and walked in. Kitra smiled and motioned for him to take a seat, while she started brushing out his hair with the silver brush. "That wench downstairs was so obvious," Jakotsu complained, as he rolled his eyes.
"Ugh, no kidding," Kitra replied. "Tell me Ja, why do they even do that shit?" completely not understanding.
Jakotsu shrugged and answered, "Hell if I know!"
Kitra stated sadly, "It's vulgar and so demeaning to one's own self."
"Indeed!" Jakotsu agreed.
Staring at the brush in her hand, Kitra sighed heavily and asked, "Ja, have you ever... have you ever... been in love before?"
Jakotsu's face split into a wide grin as he answered, "Yeah, with my scrumptious Inuyasha!"
Kitra frowned and said dryly, "Inuyasha, huh?"
Jakotsu's eyes widened in surprise and he queried, "You know him, huh?"
Kitra gave a small smile and answered, "I’ve met him, and I have to say the dog ears are cute, but he is to arrogant for me!" deadly serious.
"Those ears are just so yummy! But Inuyasha is all mine, got it?" Jakotsu faced her and warned sternly, eyes dead serious.
Kitra laughed musically and assured, "No worries there, Ja! He's too pushy, arrogant and jerky, for my taste."
Jakotsu nodded and stated, "As long as we are clear about it!"
Kitra nodded, then went back to fixing Jakotsu's hair and questioned, "So how do you know... when you’re in love?"
"You’ve seriously never been in love before?" Jakotsu responded, eyes wide with shock.
Dropping her eyes to the brush, Kitra sighed and answered softly, "Once I thought I was... but it didn't work out," She sighed heavily and mentioned, "Okay, Ja, your hair is ready."
Jakotsu clapped, ran over to the mirror and squealed with delight. He ran over to Kitra and hugged her up. "Oh, thank you so much little sister!" he said excitedly, eyes dancing with happiness.
Kitra laughed as she returned the hug and said, "Any time, Ja."
Jakotsu lead her over to the bed by the hand and offered, "Now you sit and I’ll do your hair." taking the pretty silver brush from her. He stared at the brush and asked, “Where’d you get this from?
She smiled answering sadly, “It was Bankotsu’s last gift to me before he was banished.
Jakotsu said, “Wow that was sweet of him.”
"Yeah it was," Kitra smiled and said, confessing, “I keep it with me always.”
Jakotsu took down and brushed out Kitra's hair. He mentioned in awe, "I love the color of your hair- It's so vibrant and unique! You’re so lucky! How did you get it that way?"
Kitra laughed and informed him, "It's my natural color. Mama was Irish and her hair was the same color." Jakotsu gasped and nodded.
Kitra felt a pang in her heart as she thought of her mother and father who’d died long ago. It still hurt to think of them and how they had died, but it wasn't an overwhelming pain anymore, like with the other more recent ones.
"Ja, um has Bankotsu ever talked about me and Darius?" she questioned and unknowingly held her breath awaiting his answer.
"Oh my, yes!" Jakotsu answered. "He’s talked about you both plenty of times. Mostly about how you three were inseparable," he added.
Kitra released the breath she hadn't realized she had been holding. She smiled and replied, "Yeah, we were... Darius and Bankotsu always let me tag along and after my parents died, they even started including me in the pranks and stuff they pulled."
Jakotsu mentioned sadly, "Big brother would always light up whenever he remembered those times, and then he would get really depressed afterwards."
Kitra smiled sadly and confessed, "Darius told me that after Bankotsu was banished, I wouldn't even eat for a while... Dar had to take me to the training grounds just to get me to do anything other than household chores, and mandatory attendances to the festivities for a long time."
She sighed heavily and continued, "Bankotsu was like a second brother to me then, ya know? When he had to leave, it was almost like losing my parents all over again... and now with Dar gone... I just don't know what to do anymore." she finished sadly.
"I’m sorry about your brother," Jakotsu replied. "But big brother is here now- Plus you have us now as well!" trying to cheer her up.
"Thanks Ja! I think we just might become close like sisters!" Kitra said and smiled a small smile.
Jakotsu corrected seriously, "Hon, we are like sisters now!" Kitra laughed and nodded. "So how do you want your hair?" he asked.
Kitra shrugged and answered, "Normally I just pull it into a ponytail," not really caring.
"Do you want me to braid it for you?" Jakotsu offered.
Kitra smiled and answered, "Sure, but leave the bangs out, 'k?" remembering all the times Bankotsu would braid it for her before the festivals.
Jakotsu nodded and began to braid her hair, laminating on how soft and silky it was. A few minutes later he stood up announcing, "There, all done."
Placing her treasure brush away Kitra smiled and said, “Thanks Ja," as they walked out of the room. She locked the door and suggested, "We better get going." Jakotsu nodded his agreement and they walked back into the tavern together.
They spotted Bankotsu and Suikotsu still sitting at the table. Sura was leaning over the table and flirting shamelessly with Bankotsu. Seeing this Kitra sighed heavily and averted her eyes. sensing that his little sister was upset by this, Jakotsu growled and seethed angrily, "That little bitch doesn't know when to quit, does she?"
Kitra shook her head and said sadly, "Whatever, let’s just go, 'k?" not wanting to go through it again.
Jakotsu took Kitra's hand and dragged her over to the table. He unapologetically shoved Sura out of the way and informed Bankotsu; "Big brother, we’re leaving for the festival now- Kitra wanted to let you know." he stormed out of the tavern, dragging Kitra behind him. Bankotsu looked up just in time to see them going out the door. A minute later, Bankotsu and Suikotsu stood up and walked out to the festival.
Festival Time:
Jakotsu and Kitra decided to start by looking at the wares and such. "Thanks, Ja," Kitra said softly.
"Men can be such idiots sometimes," Jakotsu countered. He’d seen the hurt look on her face before they left.
Kitra smiled and agreed, "Yup, thanks," wanting him to know how grateful she was for being spared that painful sight again
Jakotsu looked her dead in the eye and suggested, "Big brother will find us eventually but until then, we should stay together so no one hurts you, 'K?" Kitra smiled and nodded her agreement.
The two of them walked over to the food stands. Kitra picked up the bowls of rice with shrimp and Jakotsu picked up the teas after paying for their purchases. They sat under a tree and ate together, then stood up and decided to watch the celebrations for a while.
Nashine spotted Kitra and ran over. She greeted, "Hello again, and where is that hunky friend of yours?"
Kitra smiled answering, "Hello, Nashine, and he’s probably still inside the tavern, if you feel like looking for him."
Nashine brightened and asked, "Really?" eager to find the handsome stranger.
Kitra nodded then turned to her companion and mentioned evenly, "We should go, Ja, I want to at least dance a little bit tonight."
Jakotsu nodded and they set off walking together again. They reached the middle of the crowd and Kitra turned around after hearing her name called out. Her face brightened and she squealed with delight as she ran over to the person who had called her name. She greeted, "Hello, Hoshi!"
Miroku's face split into a grin and he replied, "Lady Kitra, What a pleasant surprise to see you." As he noticed she’d become even more beautiful since they’d last met.
"Yeah," she said. "It's been, what, two years now," smiling at him, though staying away from his wayward hands.
Miroku nodded, then turned to his companion and said, "Sango, you remember Kitra, right?"
Sango smiled and replied, "Hello, Kitra, It's good to see you again."
Kitra smiled answering, "You as well, Sango." waving to Kirara and Shippo.
Kagome walked over smiling, and greeted happily, "Hello, stranger."
"Kagome, it's nice to see you again," Kitra nodded and said.
"How have you been?" Kagome questioned curiously.
"I’m much better now," Kitra answered honestly.
Miroku hugged Kitra and Sango warned sternly, "Hoshi you damn well better not..."
He blanched. "Are you crazy!? Her very strong and overprotective brother would absolutely kill me!" he shouted, eyes wide with fear.
Kitra sighed and said sadly, "Yeah," looking away dejectedly.
Miroku frowned at not seeing mentioned brother and queried, “Where is Darius, anyway?"
Kitra looked away and answered sadly, "He died not too long ago..."
"I’m deeply sorry for your loss!" Miroku said thunderstruck. Kitra smiled sadly and nodded.
Jakotsu stood a little way away and had been carefully watching the exchange, walked over and asked, "Where is my cutie-pie Inuyasha at?"
Kitra laughed answering, "No idea, Ja." as she smiled fondly at her friend.
Miroku's eyes widened in absolute shock as he again faced the red haired beauty in front of him. "Kitra, why are you with him?" he questioned while pointing at the cross-dressing mercenary.
Kitra smiled and Jakotsu answered proudly, "She’s our little sister!" Kitra nodded her agreement.
Sango looked shocked. "You do realize the Band of Seven are mercenaries, right?" she queried, while staring in shock at their acquaintance.
Kitra nodded and confirmed, "I know that- I also know that they have good hearts." defending her newest companions.
Miroku blinked. "Kitra, you should be married and settled down- NOT hanging out with mercenaries," he stated, concern evident in his blue gaze.
Bankotsu walked up and demanded, "And just what is so wrong with mercenaries?" offended by the comment.
Kitra eyed the monk and informed him hotly, "Mercenaries are also humans and just doing their jobs, like everyone else!"
"But they kill people!" Sango argued vehemently.
Kitra faced the woman and argued, "And you kill demons! So tell me, is there really that much of a difference?" holding her gaze.
Choosing to ignore the unwanted visitors, Bankotsu walked over to Kitra. "Kitra, why did you take off like that?" he demanded sternly, glaring into her hazel eyes.
Jakotsu reminded his big brother, "I took off and dragged her with me."
Bankotsu scowled at his companion of many years and snapped, "I’ll deal with you later, Jakotsu." He turned back to the fiery haired beauty and demanded, "Kitra, I want an explanation!"
Kitra held his gaze and answered evenly, "Look behind you, there’s your explanation."
Sura walked up from behind him, clinging to his waist from behind and purred, "Hey, big man."
Bankotsu stiffened as soon as her hand went around his waist. He reached down and pried her hands from his waist. He turned to face her and snapped, "What do you want, Sura?"
She chuckled seductively and purred, "You know exactly what I want."
Kitra rolled her eyes walking over and stood over beside Kagome, who looked at her with a sympathetic look. Inuyasha showed up next to Kagome glaring at Kitra, and snapped, "Back away!"
Feeling even worse, Kitra sighed and rolled her eyes.
"Inuyasha love, there you are," Jakotsu squealed and said, eyes shining with adoration.
Inuyasha growled and snapped, "Stay away, you freak!"
Kitra immediately stretched out a hand and slapped Inuyasha upside the head. "Behave, you insensitive jerk!" she scolded sternly.
She spun on her heel and stormed off angrily, needing to get away from everyone. Inuyasha was going to chase her when Kagome yelled, "Sit boy!" Inuyasha crashed into the earthen soil and everyone stared at him.
Miroku sighed. "Poor Kitra, with her brother dead, she’s now alone in this world," he mentioned, eyes a little sad, and obviously concerned for his friend.
Jakotsu stared from Bankotsu, to Inuyasha, and shook his head before running after Kitra.
Bankotsu glared at the monk. "She isn't alone- She’s now under my protection! So don't even think about touching her, you lech!" he warned said monk seriously, while glaring fiercely at him.
Miroku's eyes widened in fear, he gulped nervously and nodded. Having warned the monk away, Bankotsu followed after Jakotsu and Kitra.
Inuyasha got up and growled, "Kagome! Why the hell did you do that?" glaring at her with hardened amber orbs.
Kagome glared at said hanyou and replied, "You upset her, you got what you deserved!"
Miroku frowned and questioned, "But why is she with Bankotsu and the others?" completely baffled why someone as sweet and innocent as their feisty friend, would be with a group of blood thirsty killers.
Inuyasha scoffed and snapped, "Who the hell cares?"
Miroku stared at his hanyou friend and reminded, "As her friends we should," He started off in the direction Kitra went. After a minute, everyone else followed, with a reluctant Inuyasha dragging behind them.
Author's Note: Okay guys and gals there is chapter five please remember to read and review thanks.
Most importantly I would like to give a BIG shout out and HUGE thanks to my beta Frog Lady! :)
Chapter 5:
A noon time meal:
Just outside of the village, Kitra stopped. "Ban, I don't wasn't to be a burden to anyone! Promise me that if I become a nuisance or burden, you’ll tell me immediately!" she stated, staring him dead in the eye.
Bankotsu scoffed and said seriously, "Kitra, you could never be a burden! You’re too kind, generous, sweet, caring, funny, not to mention beautiful- Whoever considered you a burden was an absolute fool!"
Kitra crossed her arms in front of her chest, planting her feet shoulder-width apart, and demanded, "Promise me Bankotsu!"
Bankotsu sighed heavily used a hand to pull her closer to him and said resigned, "Fine, I promise."
She huffed and insisted; "Like you mean it!" she was very adamant and refused to back down on this.
Bankotsu sighed heavily and mentioned seriously, "I promise," He quickly captured both of her hands, putting them behind her back and with one of his own held them there. He placed his free hand on her shapely hip, pulling her body closer to his and looked directly in her eyes. "Now, you promise me, Kitra, that you won't run off alone, nor will you try to run away under any circumstances!" he demanded, eyes dead serious. He was tired of having to chase her down.
Kitra looked him in the eyes sighing heavily and replied, "I promise," He nodded, kissing her forehead affectionately like he’d done so many times before when they were kids, released her hands, and suggested, "Now let's go meet with the others." He held out his hand and without hesitation, she placed her smaller hand into it. Uncaring of whether anyone else liked it or not, he gently held her hand and they walked over to the tavern.
Inside the tavern:
Bankotsu spotted the others as soon as he and Kitra entered the tavern. He placed a hand on the small of her back and escorted them over to the table.
Jakotsu stood and greeted, "Hey, big brother, little sister. Are you feeling better now?" concern in his big grey eyes.
"Yes Ja," Kitra answered, "thanks for asking." Jakotsu nodded and smiled.
Bankotsu sat down and pulled Kitra to sit beside him. Everyone else sat back down. Renkotsu frowned and asked, "Since when does Jakotsu care about any woman?"
Jakotsu scowled angrily at him and answered seriously, "Normally I don't- but little sister isn't just any woman!” remembering what she’d said to Bankotsu earlier, he added, “She has a big heart and has been through a lot; she’s a special woman, and one I’ll proudly call my 'little sister' any day," resolution in his eyes.
Kitra blushed, saying gratefully, "Thank you Ja," Jakotsu smiled and nodded. Grateful that his friend had accepted her so easily, Bankotsu hid a smile.
Renkotsu snickered teasing, "Better watch it or Jakotsu might just end up with a girl after all," happy to get under the feminine man’s skin for once.
"Watch your tongue, Renkotsu! Or else I’ll cut it out for you!" Jakotsu fumed, while glaring at said man.
Bankotsu laughed and said seriously, "Enough! Renkotsu, leave Jakotsu alone. Jakotsu, just ignore him." not in the mood to play referee. Jakotsu stuck his tongue out at Renkotsu and pouted. Renkotsu shivered and shook his head.
Kitra smiled as did Bankotsu. "Hey Ja, if you’d like, I could help you prepare for the festival tonight," she offered.
Jakotsu's face lit up as he responded, "Really? I so love the way you did your hair!" pointing to her hair.
Kitra laughed and said, "Thanks, if you like I can do yours this way as well?" Jakotsu's eyes lit up and he nodded eagerly. Kitra beamed.
Bankotsu looked on with pride as his close friend of many years and his best friend's sister appeared to get along rather well all things considered. Suikotsu looked at his ‘little sister’ and decided that if she could so quickly get past Jakotsu's defenses and win him over, then she just might be okay after all. Renkotsu glared at Kitra thoroughly disgusted with her presence and even more with her ‘goodliness’ it completed sickened him.
Bankotsu saw Renkotsu glaring at Kitra and questioned, "Problem, Ren?" staring directly at his second in command.
Renkotsu shook his head and answered, "No big brother." he stood up and walked over to the bar.
Bankotsu sighed shaking his head. "What is it?" Kitra asked quietly.
"It's ok, Kit," Bankotsu answered, not wanting to alarm her. Kitra covered his hand with her own and gave it a reassuring squeeze. Bankotsu looked at their hands and nodded.
"Are you sure?" she queried softly, and raised a brow questioningly.
Touched by her concern, Bankotsu he hid a smile answering; "Yeah, I’m sure." she smiled and went back to talking with Jakotsu about the festival.
Sura sashayed over. "So, big man, what will it be?" she asked while eyeing Bankotsu lustfully. Kitra stared at her a moment, then went back to talking with Suikotsu and Jakotsu.
"Four plates of food and four cups of sake’," Bankotsu answered.
"Water is fine for me," Kitra corrected him evenly. She didn’t drink and wasn’t going to start now.
Bankotsu raised a brow questioningly and Kitra shrugged. He nodded and added, "Alright, three sake’ and one water."
Sura leaned over, making sure to give all the guys a good show, and purred, "Lemme get you some fresh napkins."
Kitra and Jakotsu rolled their eyes and pretended to gag, and then they looked at each other and laughed together. Suikotsu raised a brow questioningly and Bankotsu looked at the two of them with a blank look.
Kitra sighed heavily and scooted closer over to Jakotsu so they could talk quietly about the clothes and such. Bankotsu raised a brow at them and questioned, "Alright, what's going on?"
Jakotsu smiled and answered, "Girl talk big brother, you know, clothes and such." Bankotsu rolled his eyes.
"Ja, why don't we go up to my room after we eat and we can get ready then, 'k?" Kitra suggested aloud, with an innocent look on her face.
Jakotsu grinned and nodded eagerly. Bankotsu sighed heavily, and then pulled Kitra closer to him again. "Out with it, I know you are up to something!" he demanded, staring directly into her eyes.
Kitra held his gaze and smiled as she said, "Oh really?" with a twinkle in her eyes.
"I know you better than most," Bankotsu stated. "You’re definitely planning something! Now what is it?"
Kitra grinned and answered sweetly, "I guess you’ll just have to wait and see, huh?"
Jakotsu nodded eagerly, grinning as well. Bankotsu huffed and warned, "Kitra,"
She kissed his cheek lightly and assured, "Relax Ban, it's nothing bad, okay?" staring into his eyes.
Bankotsu sighed heavily and mentioned sarcastically, "Your schemes are never bad."
Kitra smiled brilliantly and replied cheerily, "There now, see, I knew you’d understand!"
Bankotsu shook his head and sighed. Suikotsu cleared his throat and announced, "Oh, look, the food is here."
Bankotsu grabbed his cup of sake’ and gulped it down. Kitra leaned over and whispered teasingly in his ear, "Try not to get to drunk tonight, or I’ll just have to have Ja escort me to the festival."
"Don't worry princess," Bankotsu scowled and snapped, "I won't forget your festival."
Kitra scowled back and huffed, "I’m not a princess, you jerk!" She scooted over towards Jakotsu, who was sitting by the edge of the table, saying, "Excuse me, Ja."
Jakotsu moved and Kitra moved to get up from the table announcing, "I’m going to just start getting ready now." she stood up and slid out of the booth.
"Wait up little sister," Jakotsu hollered, "I’ll go now as well!" Kitra nodded, Jakotsu ran over to her and they walked up to Kitra's room.
Bankotsu scowled and looked at his sake. Suikotsu hid a smile and stated, "That girl has got one helluva temper, doesn't she?"
Bankotsu scowled and answered dryly, "You have no idea," remembering how feisty she’s always been.
Suikotsu laughed and suggested, "Come on, let's eat up." as he noticed his leader’s state of frustration.
"She didn't even eat," Bankotsu sighed and complained, staring at her untouched plate.
"There will be plenty to eat at the festival," Suikotsu reminded him. "She’ll be okay." Bankotsu sighed heavily drinking the last of his sake’ and ate his food.
Getting ready for the festival:
Kitra and Jakotsu entered Kitra's room. She suggested, "Ok Ja, take a few minutes to go change into your kimono, while I change into my pale green set. Then we can worry about our hair, 'k?"
Jakotsu nodded and left to change into his lavender kimono. After changing clothes, Kitra sat on the bed and waited for him to return.
A few minutes later, he knocked on the door and walked in. Kitra smiled and motioned for him to take a seat, while she started brushing out his hair with the silver brush. "That wench downstairs was so obvious," Jakotsu complained, as he rolled his eyes.
"Ugh, no kidding," Kitra replied. "Tell me Ja, why do they even do that shit?" completely not understanding.
Jakotsu shrugged and answered, "Hell if I know!"
Kitra stated sadly, "It's vulgar and so demeaning to one's own self."
"Indeed!" Jakotsu agreed.
Staring at the brush in her hand, Kitra sighed heavily and asked, "Ja, have you ever... have you ever... been in love before?"
Jakotsu's face split into a wide grin as he answered, "Yeah, with my scrumptious Inuyasha!"
Kitra frowned and said dryly, "Inuyasha, huh?"
Jakotsu's eyes widened in surprise and he queried, "You know him, huh?"
Kitra gave a small smile and answered, "I’ve met him, and I have to say the dog ears are cute, but he is to arrogant for me!" deadly serious.
"Those ears are just so yummy! But Inuyasha is all mine, got it?" Jakotsu faced her and warned sternly, eyes dead serious.
Kitra laughed musically and assured, "No worries there, Ja! He's too pushy, arrogant and jerky, for my taste."
Jakotsu nodded and stated, "As long as we are clear about it!"
Kitra nodded, then went back to fixing Jakotsu's hair and questioned, "So how do you know... when you’re in love?"
"You’ve seriously never been in love before?" Jakotsu responded, eyes wide with shock.
Dropping her eyes to the brush, Kitra sighed and answered softly, "Once I thought I was... but it didn't work out," She sighed heavily and mentioned, "Okay, Ja, your hair is ready."
Jakotsu clapped, ran over to the mirror and squealed with delight. He ran over to Kitra and hugged her up. "Oh, thank you so much little sister!" he said excitedly, eyes dancing with happiness.
Kitra laughed as she returned the hug and said, "Any time, Ja."
Jakotsu lead her over to the bed by the hand and offered, "Now you sit and I’ll do your hair." taking the pretty silver brush from her. He stared at the brush and asked, “Where’d you get this from?
She smiled answering sadly, “It was Bankotsu’s last gift to me before he was banished.
Jakotsu said, “Wow that was sweet of him.”
"Yeah it was," Kitra smiled and said, confessing, “I keep it with me always.”
Jakotsu took down and brushed out Kitra's hair. He mentioned in awe, "I love the color of your hair- It's so vibrant and unique! You’re so lucky! How did you get it that way?"
Kitra laughed and informed him, "It's my natural color. Mama was Irish and her hair was the same color." Jakotsu gasped and nodded.
Kitra felt a pang in her heart as she thought of her mother and father who’d died long ago. It still hurt to think of them and how they had died, but it wasn't an overwhelming pain anymore, like with the other more recent ones.
"Ja, um has Bankotsu ever talked about me and Darius?" she questioned and unknowingly held her breath awaiting his answer.
"Oh my, yes!" Jakotsu answered. "He’s talked about you both plenty of times. Mostly about how you three were inseparable," he added.
Kitra released the breath she hadn't realized she had been holding. She smiled and replied, "Yeah, we were... Darius and Bankotsu always let me tag along and after my parents died, they even started including me in the pranks and stuff they pulled."
Jakotsu mentioned sadly, "Big brother would always light up whenever he remembered those times, and then he would get really depressed afterwards."
Kitra smiled sadly and confessed, "Darius told me that after Bankotsu was banished, I wouldn't even eat for a while... Dar had to take me to the training grounds just to get me to do anything other than household chores, and mandatory attendances to the festivities for a long time."
She sighed heavily and continued, "Bankotsu was like a second brother to me then, ya know? When he had to leave, it was almost like losing my parents all over again... and now with Dar gone... I just don't know what to do anymore." she finished sadly.
"I’m sorry about your brother," Jakotsu replied. "But big brother is here now- Plus you have us now as well!" trying to cheer her up.
"Thanks Ja! I think we just might become close like sisters!" Kitra said and smiled a small smile.
Jakotsu corrected seriously, "Hon, we are like sisters now!" Kitra laughed and nodded. "So how do you want your hair?" he asked.
Kitra shrugged and answered, "Normally I just pull it into a ponytail," not really caring.
"Do you want me to braid it for you?" Jakotsu offered.
Kitra smiled and answered, "Sure, but leave the bangs out, 'k?" remembering all the times Bankotsu would braid it for her before the festivals.
Jakotsu nodded and began to braid her hair, laminating on how soft and silky it was. A few minutes later he stood up announcing, "There, all done."
Placing her treasure brush away Kitra smiled and said, “Thanks Ja," as they walked out of the room. She locked the door and suggested, "We better get going." Jakotsu nodded his agreement and they walked back into the tavern together.
They spotted Bankotsu and Suikotsu still sitting at the table. Sura was leaning over the table and flirting shamelessly with Bankotsu. Seeing this Kitra sighed heavily and averted her eyes. sensing that his little sister was upset by this, Jakotsu growled and seethed angrily, "That little bitch doesn't know when to quit, does she?"
Kitra shook her head and said sadly, "Whatever, let’s just go, 'k?" not wanting to go through it again.
Jakotsu took Kitra's hand and dragged her over to the table. He unapologetically shoved Sura out of the way and informed Bankotsu; "Big brother, we’re leaving for the festival now- Kitra wanted to let you know." he stormed out of the tavern, dragging Kitra behind him. Bankotsu looked up just in time to see them going out the door. A minute later, Bankotsu and Suikotsu stood up and walked out to the festival.
Festival Time:
Jakotsu and Kitra decided to start by looking at the wares and such. "Thanks, Ja," Kitra said softly.
"Men can be such idiots sometimes," Jakotsu countered. He’d seen the hurt look on her face before they left.
Kitra smiled and agreed, "Yup, thanks," wanting him to know how grateful she was for being spared that painful sight again
Jakotsu looked her dead in the eye and suggested, "Big brother will find us eventually but until then, we should stay together so no one hurts you, 'K?" Kitra smiled and nodded her agreement.
The two of them walked over to the food stands. Kitra picked up the bowls of rice with shrimp and Jakotsu picked up the teas after paying for their purchases. They sat under a tree and ate together, then stood up and decided to watch the celebrations for a while.
Nashine spotted Kitra and ran over. She greeted, "Hello again, and where is that hunky friend of yours?"
Kitra smiled answering, "Hello, Nashine, and he’s probably still inside the tavern, if you feel like looking for him."
Nashine brightened and asked, "Really?" eager to find the handsome stranger.
Kitra nodded then turned to her companion and mentioned evenly, "We should go, Ja, I want to at least dance a little bit tonight."
Jakotsu nodded and they set off walking together again. They reached the middle of the crowd and Kitra turned around after hearing her name called out. Her face brightened and she squealed with delight as she ran over to the person who had called her name. She greeted, "Hello, Hoshi!"
Miroku's face split into a grin and he replied, "Lady Kitra, What a pleasant surprise to see you." As he noticed she’d become even more beautiful since they’d last met.
"Yeah," she said. "It's been, what, two years now," smiling at him, though staying away from his wayward hands.
Miroku nodded, then turned to his companion and said, "Sango, you remember Kitra, right?"
Sango smiled and replied, "Hello, Kitra, It's good to see you again."
Kitra smiled answering, "You as well, Sango." waving to Kirara and Shippo.
Kagome walked over smiling, and greeted happily, "Hello, stranger."
"Kagome, it's nice to see you again," Kitra nodded and said.
"How have you been?" Kagome questioned curiously.
"I’m much better now," Kitra answered honestly.
Miroku hugged Kitra and Sango warned sternly, "Hoshi you damn well better not..."
He blanched. "Are you crazy!? Her very strong and overprotective brother would absolutely kill me!" he shouted, eyes wide with fear.
Kitra sighed and said sadly, "Yeah," looking away dejectedly.
Miroku frowned at not seeing mentioned brother and queried, “Where is Darius, anyway?"
Kitra looked away and answered sadly, "He died not too long ago..."
"I’m deeply sorry for your loss!" Miroku said thunderstruck. Kitra smiled sadly and nodded.
Jakotsu stood a little way away and had been carefully watching the exchange, walked over and asked, "Where is my cutie-pie Inuyasha at?"
Kitra laughed answering, "No idea, Ja." as she smiled fondly at her friend.
Miroku's eyes widened in absolute shock as he again faced the red haired beauty in front of him. "Kitra, why are you with him?" he questioned while pointing at the cross-dressing mercenary.
Kitra smiled and Jakotsu answered proudly, "She’s our little sister!" Kitra nodded her agreement.
Sango looked shocked. "You do realize the Band of Seven are mercenaries, right?" she queried, while staring in shock at their acquaintance.
Kitra nodded and confirmed, "I know that- I also know that they have good hearts." defending her newest companions.
Miroku blinked. "Kitra, you should be married and settled down- NOT hanging out with mercenaries," he stated, concern evident in his blue gaze.
Bankotsu walked up and demanded, "And just what is so wrong with mercenaries?" offended by the comment.
Kitra eyed the monk and informed him hotly, "Mercenaries are also humans and just doing their jobs, like everyone else!"
"But they kill people!" Sango argued vehemently.
Kitra faced the woman and argued, "And you kill demons! So tell me, is there really that much of a difference?" holding her gaze.
Choosing to ignore the unwanted visitors, Bankotsu walked over to Kitra. "Kitra, why did you take off like that?" he demanded sternly, glaring into her hazel eyes.
Jakotsu reminded his big brother, "I took off and dragged her with me."
Bankotsu scowled at his companion of many years and snapped, "I’ll deal with you later, Jakotsu." He turned back to the fiery haired beauty and demanded, "Kitra, I want an explanation!"
Kitra held his gaze and answered evenly, "Look behind you, there’s your explanation."
Sura walked up from behind him, clinging to his waist from behind and purred, "Hey, big man."
Bankotsu stiffened as soon as her hand went around his waist. He reached down and pried her hands from his waist. He turned to face her and snapped, "What do you want, Sura?"
She chuckled seductively and purred, "You know exactly what I want."
Kitra rolled her eyes walking over and stood over beside Kagome, who looked at her with a sympathetic look. Inuyasha showed up next to Kagome glaring at Kitra, and snapped, "Back away!"
Feeling even worse, Kitra sighed and rolled her eyes.
"Inuyasha love, there you are," Jakotsu squealed and said, eyes shining with adoration.
Inuyasha growled and snapped, "Stay away, you freak!"
Kitra immediately stretched out a hand and slapped Inuyasha upside the head. "Behave, you insensitive jerk!" she scolded sternly.
She spun on her heel and stormed off angrily, needing to get away from everyone. Inuyasha was going to chase her when Kagome yelled, "Sit boy!" Inuyasha crashed into the earthen soil and everyone stared at him.
Miroku sighed. "Poor Kitra, with her brother dead, she’s now alone in this world," he mentioned, eyes a little sad, and obviously concerned for his friend.
Jakotsu stared from Bankotsu, to Inuyasha, and shook his head before running after Kitra.
Bankotsu glared at the monk. "She isn't alone- She’s now under my protection! So don't even think about touching her, you lech!" he warned said monk seriously, while glaring fiercely at him.
Miroku's eyes widened in fear, he gulped nervously and nodded. Having warned the monk away, Bankotsu followed after Jakotsu and Kitra.
Inuyasha got up and growled, "Kagome! Why the hell did you do that?" glaring at her with hardened amber orbs.
Kagome glared at said hanyou and replied, "You upset her, you got what you deserved!"
Miroku frowned and questioned, "But why is she with Bankotsu and the others?" completely baffled why someone as sweet and innocent as their feisty friend, would be with a group of blood thirsty killers.
Inuyasha scoffed and snapped, "Who the hell cares?"
Miroku stared at his hanyou friend and reminded, "As her friends we should," He started off in the direction Kitra went. After a minute, everyone else followed, with a reluctant Inuyasha dragging behind them.
Author's Note: Okay guys and gals there is chapter five please remember to read and review thanks.