InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Bankotsu&Kitra: The Begining ❯ fourteen ( Chapter 14 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: kittyb78 
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Adventure | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 07.30.2008 | Updated On: 03.27.2009 | Pages: 5 | Words: 4.8K | Visits: 136 | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Adventure | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 07.30.2008 | Updated On: 03.27.2009 | Pages: 5 | Words: 4.8K | Visits: 136 | Status: Work In Progress
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha! I do own Kitra, Darius, Kou, Kio, Nenji, and Tao, Jumal and the plot, and storyline... There. I said it. (sighs)
I want give a very special Thank you to Frog Lady for her wonderful ideas, All of her help, and being such a loyal reviewer! As well as Yuti-Chan for her continued reviews! :)
Most importantly I would like to give a BIG shout out and HUGE thanks to my beta Frog Lady! :)
Chapter 14: With Kou:
Kou and Nenji were standing outside the training grounds talking.
Pacing, Kou exploded, "What do you mean you don't know?!" glaring at his best friend.
Shrugging Nenji answered evenly, "Jumal is off for the next few days, and Darius still hasn't shown up. Not even in town." He was use to his friend’s explosive temper so he was unfazed.
"Great, just fucking lovely," Kou roared angrily and stormed away, clenching his fists. Nenji hung his head and slowly walked back towards the training grounds.
With Darius and Kitra:
Kitra asked nervously, "Hey Dar, would you, um... mind coming with me and standing guard so I can have a bath?" staring at the ground.
Darius chuckled and answered, "Sure thing, Kit!" knowing she was embarrassed for even needing to ask.
She said softly, "After the incident from when we went camping and Kou showed up while I was bathing... and then from the night that he... that they..." She shivered while remembering that night, and then said, "I just don't want to take any chances." seriousness in her sad eyes.
Darius nodded and questioned concerned, "Kitra... are you sure you will be okay?" concern evident in his clear, virid eyes.
"Eventually," Kitra sighed and answered softly, as she gathered her fresh clothes, and walked back into the living area.
Darius asked, "You ready?" She nodded and they walked towards the hot spring. Darius said, "I’m gonna be sitting by that tree over there, okay? That will give you privacy, but still let me be close enough to help if needed."
She nodded and mentioned, "Thanks, Dar." He nodded and walked over to the tree.
Kitra waited until he was out of sight and slowly undressed, then gently lowered herself into the steamy water. She sat with her back against the rock and allowed her eyes to shut a moment. She felt the water soothing her tight shoulders and sighed in relief.
She remembered the day Bankotsu was banished; she saw him smirk and wave, then disappear. She opened her eyes and began crying all over again n feeling emptiness where there had once been a complete feeling..
Kitra's POV:
"Bankotsu... please be okay? I'm sorry! I’m so sorry!" I whispered and cried even harder feeling guilty for the whole mess.
Regular POV:
Twenty minutes later, she wiped her eyes and washed her hair. She came back up, sighed heavily and scolded herself, "Okay Kitra girl, time to pull it together! Your brother needs you and has been so worried about you!"
Kitra's POV:
“Darius... he needs me to pull myself together, and I need him to stay sane!” feeling a flicker of hope, I held onto the fact that I still had Dar, as long as I had him, I’d somehow be okay.”
Regular POV:
She sighed heavily and said, "Time to get out."
She climbed out, dried off, and dressed in fresh clothes. She gathered her stuff and walked to the tree her brother was at. Darius heard her walk up and asked, "You okay now?"
She gave him a small smile and answered, "Yeah, and thanks. I really appreciate all you have done for me, Dar!" He smiled nodding and they hugged each other, taking strength from each other, and walked back to their hut.
With Bankotsu: Dream sequence in Bankotsu's POV:
I saw a man with long flowing atrous hair that reached to his knees. He had broad, strong shoulders and was standing before me. “Who is he, and what does he want?”
The man walked over to me and spoke in a firm voice, "My son."
"Who the hell are you?!" I demanded, shocked beyond belief.
The man replied, "I'm not surprised you don't recognize me. After all, you were but a year old when we last saw each other. I’m your father." sending me the same smirk I used when trying to reassure my friends.
Disbelief crossed my face and I breathed, "Fa... father?" unsure and slightly shaking from my emotions.
He nodded and answered, "I died not long after I last saw you." sadness filling his sapphire eyes.
Angry with myself for shaking, I demanded, "What's going on?!"
He replied, "What you have found, son, is your inheritance and it is priceless! I buried it here for you alone to find, and I guided you to it. Now inherit what has always been meant to be yours and yours alone. The name of this mighty weapon is Banryu and she will serve you well." He turned to walk away and I heard him say, "Remember, my son; I have always loved you and am very proud of the man you have become! Don’t forget those who you have always held close to your heart, we were always love you, my son."
I felt tears running down my cheeks and angrily wiped them away. Then my father disappeared, and everything went black again.
End dream:
Regular POV:
Bankotsu woke up and sat up clutching the weapon from his dream. He stared at the hilt and said, "So this is mine, eh?" He wrapped his hand around the hilt and yanked as hard as he could; each time it freed the object a little more. After a good ten minutes of yanking, it finally came completely out of the ground and he held it up, admiring its beauty.
Remembering his father’s message, He stated, "Banryu, eh? That's a good strong name. Let's hope this sword lives up to it!" He looked it over thoroughly and said, "Well Banryu, let's go see what you can do, shall we?" He carried the sword outside and went to test its strength. He found it to be worthy indeed of such a strong name. Bankotsu smirked and stated happily, "Now I have a good strong sword!” noticing the growing storm, he said, “Time to go back to the cave for tonight and camp," walking back towards the cave.
Inside the cave, Bankotsu set his sword down, went to gather wood, put the wood in the cave, and went to hunt for his dinner. He brought two rabbits back to the cave made a fire and roasted them.
Bankotsu's POV:
I sat there watching the meat cook. “Damn better than nothing, I suppose! But it sure ain't Kitra's cooking!” I grimaced as sadness and longing filled me. “Kitra... I wonder how she’s holding up. I know Darius is with her, but still...”
I scowled and mumbled angrily, "No use lamenting over things that can't be changed. Besides, she has Darius and I know he will protect her!"
Regular POV:
He ate his food and settled in to sleep for the night. After hours of tossing and turning, he managed to fall into a fitful sleep.
With Darius and Kitra:
Kitra suggested, "Bring me your clothes, Dar, and I’ll get them washed as I do the bedding and my clothes." Darius nodded and brought out his clothes. They carried them to the river and she began washing them. He sat against a tree watching over her and they talked some more. Kitra said, "You know Darius... I..."
Darius said gently, "I know, Kit... it's almost like losing mom and dad all over again..." sadness deep in his eyes.
Releasing a heavy sigh Kitra replied sadly, "Yeah, it is..." she set everything aside, walked over to him, sitting in his lap and mentioned happily, "But at least you and I still have each other." He smiled and hugged her, and she gladly hugged him back, both needing the comfort the other gave.
"That's true! Thank Kami-sama you’re alright!" he stated, and hugged her tighter, smoothing his hand down her back.
She smiled, hugging him tighter, and agreed, "Yeah, I am now- Thanks to you!" she kissed his cheek. He smiled and kissed her forehead, and stood up helping her up. They carried the laundry back to the hut and she hung them out to dry.
Afterwards, she queried, "So what should we do now?" trying to get her mind off of how empty the hut was beginning to feel.
Feeling the same way, and remembering their lack of provisions, Darius answered, "First I have to talk to Jumal."
Kitra stated, "Take me with you! I don't want to stay alone..." afraid of being left behind with the oppressing loneliness she was barely managing to keep at bay.
Darius nodded and agreed, "Alright, let's go." holding out his hand for her. She nodded, placing her fragile hand in his, and they walked towards Jumal's hut.
AT Jumal's hut:
Darius and Kitra saw Jumal and Lissa standing outside the hut, and walked over to them. Jumal greeted happily, "Hey, man! Kitra, I’m glad to see your up now," sending her an apologetic smile.
Kitra gave him a smile and said, "Thanks." Wanting him to know she didn’t blame him for anything.
Lissa ran over and hugged her crying, "Oh Kit, I’m so sorry! I never should have called those girls over!" she’d been guilt ridden since the night everything happened.
Kitra gave her best friend a sad smile. "Don't worry about it, I’m not mad at you and I don’t blame you or Ju for anything," she replied, hugging her friend back.
Lissa demanded, "How can I not? If I hadn't called them over none of you would have fought and Kou wouldn't have..." tears falling down her pale cheeks.
Kitra cut her off and declared angrily, "Kou still would have found another reason!" Then she turned and buried her head in Darius's chest and sobbed.
Darius held her and murmured soothingly, "It's alright, Kit! I promise he won't come near you again for a long time! And I won't let anything happen to you either!" Kitra nodded and slowly her sobs faded. He continued rubbing her back soothingly.
Still feeling responsible himself, Jumal sighed heavily. "Well come on in you two," he suggested and led them inside. Darius held Kitra close to his side and they went inside.
Inside Jumal's hut:
They all sat in the living area in a circle. Needing the calming presence of her brother, Kitra stayed right beside Darius.
Jumal said, "I'm sorry I couldn't help you more, Kitra, I..." guilt in his eyes.
Not pleased that he was blaming himself, Kitra replied heatedly, "Jumal, you did what you could- I don't blame you! They knocked you out, Ju!"
Jumal added seriously, "I also want to thank you for protecting Lissa for me, she told me what happened after they bashed me."
Kitra sighed and replied, "She’s my friend of course I would!" unable to believe he’d think otherwise.
Lissa added sadly, "But if you hadn't..." guilt still eating her.
Kitra said annoyed, "Then we both would have been in the same situation!" needing her friend to understand.
Wanting to calm her down, Darius stated, "Either way, I’m just grateful Bankotsu showed up in time."
Kitra answered softly, "So am I, although if he hadn't..." feeling the guilt return with a vengeance.
Darius exclaimed angrily, "Then you would have been in a far worse situation!" eyes hard, needing her to understand. Kitra nodded.
Realizing the she was punishing herself over everything, Darius sighed heavily and declared, "Kitra don't you dare blame yourself for this! The headman and Kou are the only ones to blame- not you! Got that?" anger that she’d even consider blaming herself clear in his eyes.
Kitra sighed heavily, nodding and said sadly, "Still..."
Darius said dead seriously, "No still Kitra, you are not to blame!" gripping her shoulders and forcing her to look him in the eye.
Kitra sighed heavily and nodded, then leaned her head on his shoulder. Darius wrapped an arm around her and hugged her to his side. She buried her head in his chest and just savored the feeling of being comforted. He kissed the top of her head, and laid his cheek on her head. She wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned into him.
Jumal added, “Your brother’s right Kit, you’re not to blame for anything!” then asked, "So what brings you two out?"
Darius replied, "Wanted to talk to you, plus we need a few things from the market."
Feeling the concern pouring from his friend, Jumal nodded and asked, "What's up?"
Darius answered, "I was wondering if you would go hunting. I still don't want to leave Kit's side just yet and we’re getting low on meat."
Jumal nodded and replied, "Sure, man! Just watch Lissa for me, okay?"
Darius nodded and said, "Thanks, Ju, I owe ya! We’re gonna get the stuff at the market and then we’ll all head back to my place."
Placing a comforting hand on the other man’s shoulder, Jumal smiled. "I totally understand," he assured Darius, and took off to hunt.
Darius looked at Kitra and Lissa and asked in a gentle voice, "You two ladies ready?"
Slightly apprehensive about returning to the market, they nodded and the trio went to the market.
At the market:
Darius, Kitra, and Lissa, gathered the things they needed and Darius paid for them. The trio carried their purchases back to Darius, and Kitra's hut.
At Darius's hut:
They walked inside and set down their purchases in the living area. Kitra started putting things away, while Lissa and Darius sat talking. She put away her spices, the flour, rice, and teas, before joining her brother and friend in the living area.
Lissa laughed at something Darius said as Kitra sat beside him. Darius smiled and asked, "Find everything okay?"
Kitra nodded and replied, "Yes, thanks. I see you have been busy lately." adding a small genuine smile.
Darius nodded and said, "Yeah." Knowing what she’d been referring to.
Kitra kissed his cheek saying, "I love the new shelves. Thank you, Dar!"
He grinned kissing her cheek, and replied, "You're welcome, Kit!" pleased that she liked his handiwork.
Lissa smiled and asked excitedly, "So Kit, are you looking forward to next week?"
Kitra frowned and questioned, "What's next week?" feeling confused.
Lissa laughed and replied, "Only the headman's biggest celebration of the year!" excitement filling her eyes.
Kitra said, "Oh... I don't know... I mean what if..." inhaling a shaky breath
Darius announced seriosuly, "I’ll be there with you, Kitra, and I won't let anyone harm you!"
Kitra nodded, sighed heavily and said, "Okay... I guess I’ll go then." Not really sure it would be worth bothering over.
Lissa exclaimed, "Good! Just think this time I get to go too!" she was giddy over getting to attend her first official headman’s celebration.
Happy for her friend, Kitra smiled and said, "Cool!" knowing it would mean the world to her best friend.
Darius laughed and mentioned, "Kitra, I know how much you look forward to the celebrations- this year won't be any different."
Feeling depressed again, Kitra said, "Yeah it will... but we’ll go anyways."
Darius stated seriously, "Honey, I know you miss him, so do I! But he would want us to be happy.” Adding resolutely, “He would want you to have fun at the festival just like always," staring deeply into her eyes.
"I know, you're right," Kitra agreed, and felt a few stray tears fall.
Darius hugged her and gently wiped away her tears. "It’ll be okay, Kit! It will get better," he soothed kissing the top of her head.
She hugged him back nodding and said, "I know," sighing.
Wanting to cheer her miserable friend up, Lissa suggested, "Hey Kit, wanna show me which kimono you’re gonna wear this time?"
Kitra smiled and answered, "Actually, it's the one you made me." She’d decided that way back on her birthday, wanting to see Bankotsu’s reaction to it.
Lissa's eyes widened and she asked excitedly, "Really?!" pleased her best friend considered wearing her gift that she’d spent months making.
Kitra smiled and nodded. Darius smiled at his sister and suggested, "Good! Now that, that's settled, how about we check on your garden, Kit?"
Kitra nodded and led them to her garden. She smiled. "Thank you Dar!" she said hugging him.
He smiled and hugged her back, replying, "You're welcome! Besides, I like the vegetables in the stews, anyway."
Feeling deeply touched Kitra stated, "You’ve stayed by me since you first returned, you made sure I ate even a little bit, and you took care of my garden for me! Thank you so much, Darius! I’m sorry it took me so long to come out of it."
Darius smiled affectionately and said, "Any time, Kit! Besides, it took you even longer to come out of it when mom and dad died."
Kitra nodded and agreed, "Yeah, but this time it was all on your shoulders..."
Darius's smile grew and he mentioned, "Hey, I don't mind! I’ve got big shoulders!" winking at his sister, trying to chase away the gloomy look in her eyes.
Kitra giggled and smiled her first real smile since Bankotsu's banishment. She replied, "Speaking of which, I need you to try on your new outfit and lemme know how it fits."
He nodded and she retrieved it from her room and held it out to him. He took it into his room and quickly changed, then walked back out and showed her. Kitra smiled and asked, "How does it fit?"
He smiled and replied, "Fits great!" turning around to show her and Lissa.
She nodded and explained, "Okay, it's a bit bigger so you’ll still have room to grow, also this is stretchy as well, so as you grow it should still fit, for a few years at least. I mean, you’re already pretty muscular and the sleeves are loose; but they have a band on the end. So, just in case you roll them up they will still fit snug. It's made to move with you. Same as I made Ban's," falling silent as memories crowded in.
Darius smiled and complimented, "You’re a wiz at this stuff, ya know!"
Kitra smiled and said, "Thanks."
Darius patted her shoulder; she gave him a quick hug then went to retrieve the spare outfit and three obis. She handed them to Darius and said, "Here, this is the spare and you have three obis."
He accepted them and said, amused, "Always prepared, eh, Kit?"
She grinned and happily exclaimed, "You know it!" Darius chuckled and shook his head, while grinning.
Feeling sullen Kitra tried to hide in by mentioning, "Okay, I’m gonna go start the noodles."
Darius's eyes lit up, and a huge smile spread across his face instantly. Kitra smiled and walked into the kitchen, and began making them by scratch. An hour later, they were cooking in the water and spices; she had cleaned her mess and put everything back away again, fighting to keep the painful memories and deep loneliness at bay.
Jumal showed up and dropped two big boars down outside the hut. Darius went outside and they began cutting the meat up. Walking outside, Kitra suggested, "Hand me some, and I’ll add it to the noodles."
Darius nodded and handed her some meat; she added it to the pot of noodles, and asked, "Hey, Lissa, wanna help me with the vegetables?"
"Sure," Lissa said, and they went to Kitra's garden to gather potatoes and carrots. They carried them inside, diced them up, and added them to the pot.
Kitra offered, "Jumal, would you and Lissa like to stay and have some of the stew?"
Jumal's face lit up as he grinned and answered, "Sure!" he enjoyed Kitra’s cooking nearly as much as his sister’s.
Kitra nodded and said, "Good,” grateful they wouldn’t have to eat alone tonight.
Darius agreed, "Kitra's right, it's the least we can do after you did the hunting." Kitra nodded her agreement.
Lissa said, "Hey I'm all for it- It means I won't have to cook tonight." grinning.
Everyone laughed. Jumal said happily, "Hey, I’m not about to turn down Kitra's homemade food!"
Everyone laughed again. Darius stated proudly, "I haven't met anyone yet who has!"
Kitra smiled and sat on the floor in the living area. They four of them sat talking while the stew and noodles cooked. When the food was done, Kitra served it up and stated, "Food’s ready."
Darius, Jumal, and Lissa, sat at the table and scarfed their stew and noodles and asked for more. Kitra chuckled and refilled their bowls.
By the time everyone had finished eating, the pot was empty. Kitra smiled saying, "At least it didn't go to waste."
Darius exclaimed, "Bite your tongue, Kitra! I would never let your home cooking go to waste!"
Kitra smiled and said, "I know." feeling a little better.
Jumal complimented, "Delicious as always, Kitra." meaning it, as he rubbed his full stomach.
Kitra smiled saying, "Thanks." smiling at her friend.
Lissa requested, "You've gotta give me the recipe to your noodles, please?" sending her friend a puppy dog pout.
Kitra smiled answering, "Sure," As she wrote it down and handed it to her.
Lissa grinned and said, "Thanks Kit!" tucking the recipe safely away.
Kitra nodded and mentioned, "Any time."
Jumal stood up and announced, "Lissa, we need to head home now."
Lissa sighed and whined, "Do we have to?"
Jumal replied, "Yes, we do. I have to report to my superior in the morning."
Lissa pouted, "Alright." she turned around and hugged Kitra and said, "Bye Kit, and thanks for the recipe."
Kitra hugged her back and replied, "Bye, you're welcome, and thanks for visiting."
Jumal nodded and said, "Thanks again for the meal, Kit."
Kitra said, "Any time, and thanks again for hunting."
Darius stated, "See you two later and thanks for hunting for us, Ju."
Jumal nodded and said, "Anytime." then he and Lissa left.
Darius faced Kitra and stated; "Now I know you’ll have plenty of meat while I’m gone."
Kitra sighed heavily and mumbled, "I guess I’ll just have to get used to being alone again, huh?" feeling the depression cloud over her again.
Darius corrected, "Not completely, Jumal will be watching out for you while I’m away. It has already been arranged."
Kitra raised and brow and queried, "Really?" not wanting to face the emptiness inside her heart, or this big hut without her brother around.
Darius answered, "Jumal will be checking on you every day to make sure you’re okay while I’m gone." eyes and tone serious.
Kitra nodded and said, "Thanks."
Darius hugged her and stated, "I know you’ll want your space, but I’m not taking any chances with your safety either. I figured this would be agreeable with you."
"It's fine, thanks," Kitra replied, hugging him back fiercely.
He kissed the top of her head lovingly and insisted, "Time for bed, Kit. Tomorrow I’m going to start training you to use your katana."
Kitra smiled nodding, and kissed his cheek replying, "Awesome! Night Dar, I love you!"
He grinned kissing her forehead, and added, "I love you too, Kit! Now off to bed." Kitra complied and went to her room.
Kitra's POV:
I crawled under my covers releasing a heavy sigh, and thought about the day's events. “Ban would have loved that stew. I wonder what he's doing now. Is he eating okay? I know he's strong, but I sure do miss you.”
I let a few tears fall, wiped my eyes, then rolled onto my side and faced the wall. I heard Darius entering the room.
Regular POV:
Darius went to Kitra's room, tucked her in, kissing her cheek and whispered, "Sweet dreams, Kit."
She gave a small smile and replied, "You too Dar." then she slowly fell asleep.
After assuring himself Kitra was asleep, Darius smiled, stood up and went to his room. He removed his armor and weapons, then crawled into bed and thought about Bankotsu. He whispered, "Be safe, my friend." and rolled onto his side waiting for sleep to over take him. An hour later sleep finally claimed him.
Author's Note: Okay guys and gals there is chapter fourteen please remember to read and review thanks.
I want give a very special Thank you to Frog Lady for her wonderful ideas, All of her help, and being such a loyal reviewer! As well as Yuti-Chan for her continued reviews! :)
Most importantly I would like to give a BIG shout out and HUGE thanks to my beta Frog Lady! :)
Chapter 14: With Kou:
Kou and Nenji were standing outside the training grounds talking.
Pacing, Kou exploded, "What do you mean you don't know?!" glaring at his best friend.
Shrugging Nenji answered evenly, "Jumal is off for the next few days, and Darius still hasn't shown up. Not even in town." He was use to his friend’s explosive temper so he was unfazed.
"Great, just fucking lovely," Kou roared angrily and stormed away, clenching his fists. Nenji hung his head and slowly walked back towards the training grounds.
With Darius and Kitra:
Kitra asked nervously, "Hey Dar, would you, um... mind coming with me and standing guard so I can have a bath?" staring at the ground.
Darius chuckled and answered, "Sure thing, Kit!" knowing she was embarrassed for even needing to ask.
She said softly, "After the incident from when we went camping and Kou showed up while I was bathing... and then from the night that he... that they..." She shivered while remembering that night, and then said, "I just don't want to take any chances." seriousness in her sad eyes.
Darius nodded and questioned concerned, "Kitra... are you sure you will be okay?" concern evident in his clear, virid eyes.
"Eventually," Kitra sighed and answered softly, as she gathered her fresh clothes, and walked back into the living area.
Darius asked, "You ready?" She nodded and they walked towards the hot spring. Darius said, "I’m gonna be sitting by that tree over there, okay? That will give you privacy, but still let me be close enough to help if needed."
She nodded and mentioned, "Thanks, Dar." He nodded and walked over to the tree.
Kitra waited until he was out of sight and slowly undressed, then gently lowered herself into the steamy water. She sat with her back against the rock and allowed her eyes to shut a moment. She felt the water soothing her tight shoulders and sighed in relief.
She remembered the day Bankotsu was banished; she saw him smirk and wave, then disappear. She opened her eyes and began crying all over again n feeling emptiness where there had once been a complete feeling..
Kitra's POV:
"Bankotsu... please be okay? I'm sorry! I’m so sorry!" I whispered and cried even harder feeling guilty for the whole mess.
Regular POV:
Twenty minutes later, she wiped her eyes and washed her hair. She came back up, sighed heavily and scolded herself, "Okay Kitra girl, time to pull it together! Your brother needs you and has been so worried about you!"
Kitra's POV:
“Darius... he needs me to pull myself together, and I need him to stay sane!” feeling a flicker of hope, I held onto the fact that I still had Dar, as long as I had him, I’d somehow be okay.”
Regular POV:
She sighed heavily and said, "Time to get out."
She climbed out, dried off, and dressed in fresh clothes. She gathered her stuff and walked to the tree her brother was at. Darius heard her walk up and asked, "You okay now?"
She gave him a small smile and answered, "Yeah, and thanks. I really appreciate all you have done for me, Dar!" He smiled nodding and they hugged each other, taking strength from each other, and walked back to their hut.
With Bankotsu: Dream sequence in Bankotsu's POV:
I saw a man with long flowing atrous hair that reached to his knees. He had broad, strong shoulders and was standing before me. “Who is he, and what does he want?”
The man walked over to me and spoke in a firm voice, "My son."
"Who the hell are you?!" I demanded, shocked beyond belief.
The man replied, "I'm not surprised you don't recognize me. After all, you were but a year old when we last saw each other. I’m your father." sending me the same smirk I used when trying to reassure my friends.
Disbelief crossed my face and I breathed, "Fa... father?" unsure and slightly shaking from my emotions.
He nodded and answered, "I died not long after I last saw you." sadness filling his sapphire eyes.
Angry with myself for shaking, I demanded, "What's going on?!"
He replied, "What you have found, son, is your inheritance and it is priceless! I buried it here for you alone to find, and I guided you to it. Now inherit what has always been meant to be yours and yours alone. The name of this mighty weapon is Banryu and she will serve you well." He turned to walk away and I heard him say, "Remember, my son; I have always loved you and am very proud of the man you have become! Don’t forget those who you have always held close to your heart, we were always love you, my son."
I felt tears running down my cheeks and angrily wiped them away. Then my father disappeared, and everything went black again.
End dream:
Regular POV:
Bankotsu woke up and sat up clutching the weapon from his dream. He stared at the hilt and said, "So this is mine, eh?" He wrapped his hand around the hilt and yanked as hard as he could; each time it freed the object a little more. After a good ten minutes of yanking, it finally came completely out of the ground and he held it up, admiring its beauty.
Remembering his father’s message, He stated, "Banryu, eh? That's a good strong name. Let's hope this sword lives up to it!" He looked it over thoroughly and said, "Well Banryu, let's go see what you can do, shall we?" He carried the sword outside and went to test its strength. He found it to be worthy indeed of such a strong name. Bankotsu smirked and stated happily, "Now I have a good strong sword!” noticing the growing storm, he said, “Time to go back to the cave for tonight and camp," walking back towards the cave.
Inside the cave, Bankotsu set his sword down, went to gather wood, put the wood in the cave, and went to hunt for his dinner. He brought two rabbits back to the cave made a fire and roasted them.
Bankotsu's POV:
I sat there watching the meat cook. “Damn better than nothing, I suppose! But it sure ain't Kitra's cooking!” I grimaced as sadness and longing filled me. “Kitra... I wonder how she’s holding up. I know Darius is with her, but still...”
I scowled and mumbled angrily, "No use lamenting over things that can't be changed. Besides, she has Darius and I know he will protect her!"
Regular POV:
He ate his food and settled in to sleep for the night. After hours of tossing and turning, he managed to fall into a fitful sleep.
With Darius and Kitra:
Kitra suggested, "Bring me your clothes, Dar, and I’ll get them washed as I do the bedding and my clothes." Darius nodded and brought out his clothes. They carried them to the river and she began washing them. He sat against a tree watching over her and they talked some more. Kitra said, "You know Darius... I..."
Darius said gently, "I know, Kit... it's almost like losing mom and dad all over again..." sadness deep in his eyes.
Releasing a heavy sigh Kitra replied sadly, "Yeah, it is..." she set everything aside, walked over to him, sitting in his lap and mentioned happily, "But at least you and I still have each other." He smiled and hugged her, and she gladly hugged him back, both needing the comfort the other gave.
"That's true! Thank Kami-sama you’re alright!" he stated, and hugged her tighter, smoothing his hand down her back.
She smiled, hugging him tighter, and agreed, "Yeah, I am now- Thanks to you!" she kissed his cheek. He smiled and kissed her forehead, and stood up helping her up. They carried the laundry back to the hut and she hung them out to dry.
Afterwards, she queried, "So what should we do now?" trying to get her mind off of how empty the hut was beginning to feel.
Feeling the same way, and remembering their lack of provisions, Darius answered, "First I have to talk to Jumal."
Kitra stated, "Take me with you! I don't want to stay alone..." afraid of being left behind with the oppressing loneliness she was barely managing to keep at bay.
Darius nodded and agreed, "Alright, let's go." holding out his hand for her. She nodded, placing her fragile hand in his, and they walked towards Jumal's hut.
AT Jumal's hut:
Darius and Kitra saw Jumal and Lissa standing outside the hut, and walked over to them. Jumal greeted happily, "Hey, man! Kitra, I’m glad to see your up now," sending her an apologetic smile.
Kitra gave him a smile and said, "Thanks." Wanting him to know she didn’t blame him for anything.
Lissa ran over and hugged her crying, "Oh Kit, I’m so sorry! I never should have called those girls over!" she’d been guilt ridden since the night everything happened.
Kitra gave her best friend a sad smile. "Don't worry about it, I’m not mad at you and I don’t blame you or Ju for anything," she replied, hugging her friend back.
Lissa demanded, "How can I not? If I hadn't called them over none of you would have fought and Kou wouldn't have..." tears falling down her pale cheeks.
Kitra cut her off and declared angrily, "Kou still would have found another reason!" Then she turned and buried her head in Darius's chest and sobbed.
Darius held her and murmured soothingly, "It's alright, Kit! I promise he won't come near you again for a long time! And I won't let anything happen to you either!" Kitra nodded and slowly her sobs faded. He continued rubbing her back soothingly.
Still feeling responsible himself, Jumal sighed heavily. "Well come on in you two," he suggested and led them inside. Darius held Kitra close to his side and they went inside.
Inside Jumal's hut:
They all sat in the living area in a circle. Needing the calming presence of her brother, Kitra stayed right beside Darius.
Jumal said, "I'm sorry I couldn't help you more, Kitra, I..." guilt in his eyes.
Not pleased that he was blaming himself, Kitra replied heatedly, "Jumal, you did what you could- I don't blame you! They knocked you out, Ju!"
Jumal added seriously, "I also want to thank you for protecting Lissa for me, she told me what happened after they bashed me."
Kitra sighed and replied, "She’s my friend of course I would!" unable to believe he’d think otherwise.
Lissa added sadly, "But if you hadn't..." guilt still eating her.
Kitra said annoyed, "Then we both would have been in the same situation!" needing her friend to understand.
Wanting to calm her down, Darius stated, "Either way, I’m just grateful Bankotsu showed up in time."
Kitra answered softly, "So am I, although if he hadn't..." feeling the guilt return with a vengeance.
Darius exclaimed angrily, "Then you would have been in a far worse situation!" eyes hard, needing her to understand. Kitra nodded.
Realizing the she was punishing herself over everything, Darius sighed heavily and declared, "Kitra don't you dare blame yourself for this! The headman and Kou are the only ones to blame- not you! Got that?" anger that she’d even consider blaming herself clear in his eyes.
Kitra sighed heavily, nodding and said sadly, "Still..."
Darius said dead seriously, "No still Kitra, you are not to blame!" gripping her shoulders and forcing her to look him in the eye.
Kitra sighed heavily and nodded, then leaned her head on his shoulder. Darius wrapped an arm around her and hugged her to his side. She buried her head in his chest and just savored the feeling of being comforted. He kissed the top of her head, and laid his cheek on her head. She wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned into him.
Jumal added, “Your brother’s right Kit, you’re not to blame for anything!” then asked, "So what brings you two out?"
Darius replied, "Wanted to talk to you, plus we need a few things from the market."
Feeling the concern pouring from his friend, Jumal nodded and asked, "What's up?"
Darius answered, "I was wondering if you would go hunting. I still don't want to leave Kit's side just yet and we’re getting low on meat."
Jumal nodded and replied, "Sure, man! Just watch Lissa for me, okay?"
Darius nodded and said, "Thanks, Ju, I owe ya! We’re gonna get the stuff at the market and then we’ll all head back to my place."
Placing a comforting hand on the other man’s shoulder, Jumal smiled. "I totally understand," he assured Darius, and took off to hunt.
Darius looked at Kitra and Lissa and asked in a gentle voice, "You two ladies ready?"
Slightly apprehensive about returning to the market, they nodded and the trio went to the market.
At the market:
Darius, Kitra, and Lissa, gathered the things they needed and Darius paid for them. The trio carried their purchases back to Darius, and Kitra's hut.
At Darius's hut:
They walked inside and set down their purchases in the living area. Kitra started putting things away, while Lissa and Darius sat talking. She put away her spices, the flour, rice, and teas, before joining her brother and friend in the living area.
Lissa laughed at something Darius said as Kitra sat beside him. Darius smiled and asked, "Find everything okay?"
Kitra nodded and replied, "Yes, thanks. I see you have been busy lately." adding a small genuine smile.
Darius nodded and said, "Yeah." Knowing what she’d been referring to.
Kitra kissed his cheek saying, "I love the new shelves. Thank you, Dar!"
He grinned kissing her cheek, and replied, "You're welcome, Kit!" pleased that she liked his handiwork.
Lissa smiled and asked excitedly, "So Kit, are you looking forward to next week?"
Kitra frowned and questioned, "What's next week?" feeling confused.
Lissa laughed and replied, "Only the headman's biggest celebration of the year!" excitement filling her eyes.
Kitra said, "Oh... I don't know... I mean what if..." inhaling a shaky breath
Darius announced seriosuly, "I’ll be there with you, Kitra, and I won't let anyone harm you!"
Kitra nodded, sighed heavily and said, "Okay... I guess I’ll go then." Not really sure it would be worth bothering over.
Lissa exclaimed, "Good! Just think this time I get to go too!" she was giddy over getting to attend her first official headman’s celebration.
Happy for her friend, Kitra smiled and said, "Cool!" knowing it would mean the world to her best friend.
Darius laughed and mentioned, "Kitra, I know how much you look forward to the celebrations- this year won't be any different."
Feeling depressed again, Kitra said, "Yeah it will... but we’ll go anyways."
Darius stated seriously, "Honey, I know you miss him, so do I! But he would want us to be happy.” Adding resolutely, “He would want you to have fun at the festival just like always," staring deeply into her eyes.
"I know, you're right," Kitra agreed, and felt a few stray tears fall.
Darius hugged her and gently wiped away her tears. "It’ll be okay, Kit! It will get better," he soothed kissing the top of her head.
She hugged him back nodding and said, "I know," sighing.
Wanting to cheer her miserable friend up, Lissa suggested, "Hey Kit, wanna show me which kimono you’re gonna wear this time?"
Kitra smiled and answered, "Actually, it's the one you made me." She’d decided that way back on her birthday, wanting to see Bankotsu’s reaction to it.
Lissa's eyes widened and she asked excitedly, "Really?!" pleased her best friend considered wearing her gift that she’d spent months making.
Kitra smiled and nodded. Darius smiled at his sister and suggested, "Good! Now that, that's settled, how about we check on your garden, Kit?"
Kitra nodded and led them to her garden. She smiled. "Thank you Dar!" she said hugging him.
He smiled and hugged her back, replying, "You're welcome! Besides, I like the vegetables in the stews, anyway."
Feeling deeply touched Kitra stated, "You’ve stayed by me since you first returned, you made sure I ate even a little bit, and you took care of my garden for me! Thank you so much, Darius! I’m sorry it took me so long to come out of it."
Darius smiled affectionately and said, "Any time, Kit! Besides, it took you even longer to come out of it when mom and dad died."
Kitra nodded and agreed, "Yeah, but this time it was all on your shoulders..."
Darius's smile grew and he mentioned, "Hey, I don't mind! I’ve got big shoulders!" winking at his sister, trying to chase away the gloomy look in her eyes.
Kitra giggled and smiled her first real smile since Bankotsu's banishment. She replied, "Speaking of which, I need you to try on your new outfit and lemme know how it fits."
He nodded and she retrieved it from her room and held it out to him. He took it into his room and quickly changed, then walked back out and showed her. Kitra smiled and asked, "How does it fit?"
He smiled and replied, "Fits great!" turning around to show her and Lissa.
She nodded and explained, "Okay, it's a bit bigger so you’ll still have room to grow, also this is stretchy as well, so as you grow it should still fit, for a few years at least. I mean, you’re already pretty muscular and the sleeves are loose; but they have a band on the end. So, just in case you roll them up they will still fit snug. It's made to move with you. Same as I made Ban's," falling silent as memories crowded in.
Darius smiled and complimented, "You’re a wiz at this stuff, ya know!"
Kitra smiled and said, "Thanks."
Darius patted her shoulder; she gave him a quick hug then went to retrieve the spare outfit and three obis. She handed them to Darius and said, "Here, this is the spare and you have three obis."
He accepted them and said, amused, "Always prepared, eh, Kit?"
She grinned and happily exclaimed, "You know it!" Darius chuckled and shook his head, while grinning.
Feeling sullen Kitra tried to hide in by mentioning, "Okay, I’m gonna go start the noodles."
Darius's eyes lit up, and a huge smile spread across his face instantly. Kitra smiled and walked into the kitchen, and began making them by scratch. An hour later, they were cooking in the water and spices; she had cleaned her mess and put everything back away again, fighting to keep the painful memories and deep loneliness at bay.
Jumal showed up and dropped two big boars down outside the hut. Darius went outside and they began cutting the meat up. Walking outside, Kitra suggested, "Hand me some, and I’ll add it to the noodles."
Darius nodded and handed her some meat; she added it to the pot of noodles, and asked, "Hey, Lissa, wanna help me with the vegetables?"
"Sure," Lissa said, and they went to Kitra's garden to gather potatoes and carrots. They carried them inside, diced them up, and added them to the pot.
Kitra offered, "Jumal, would you and Lissa like to stay and have some of the stew?"
Jumal's face lit up as he grinned and answered, "Sure!" he enjoyed Kitra’s cooking nearly as much as his sister’s.
Kitra nodded and said, "Good,” grateful they wouldn’t have to eat alone tonight.
Darius agreed, "Kitra's right, it's the least we can do after you did the hunting." Kitra nodded her agreement.
Lissa said, "Hey I'm all for it- It means I won't have to cook tonight." grinning.
Everyone laughed. Jumal said happily, "Hey, I’m not about to turn down Kitra's homemade food!"
Everyone laughed again. Darius stated proudly, "I haven't met anyone yet who has!"
Kitra smiled and sat on the floor in the living area. They four of them sat talking while the stew and noodles cooked. When the food was done, Kitra served it up and stated, "Food’s ready."
Darius, Jumal, and Lissa, sat at the table and scarfed their stew and noodles and asked for more. Kitra chuckled and refilled their bowls.
By the time everyone had finished eating, the pot was empty. Kitra smiled saying, "At least it didn't go to waste."
Darius exclaimed, "Bite your tongue, Kitra! I would never let your home cooking go to waste!"
Kitra smiled and said, "I know." feeling a little better.
Jumal complimented, "Delicious as always, Kitra." meaning it, as he rubbed his full stomach.
Kitra smiled saying, "Thanks." smiling at her friend.
Lissa requested, "You've gotta give me the recipe to your noodles, please?" sending her friend a puppy dog pout.
Kitra smiled answering, "Sure," As she wrote it down and handed it to her.
Lissa grinned and said, "Thanks Kit!" tucking the recipe safely away.
Kitra nodded and mentioned, "Any time."
Jumal stood up and announced, "Lissa, we need to head home now."
Lissa sighed and whined, "Do we have to?"
Jumal replied, "Yes, we do. I have to report to my superior in the morning."
Lissa pouted, "Alright." she turned around and hugged Kitra and said, "Bye Kit, and thanks for the recipe."
Kitra hugged her back and replied, "Bye, you're welcome, and thanks for visiting."
Jumal nodded and said, "Thanks again for the meal, Kit."
Kitra said, "Any time, and thanks again for hunting."
Darius stated, "See you two later and thanks for hunting for us, Ju."
Jumal nodded and said, "Anytime." then he and Lissa left.
Darius faced Kitra and stated; "Now I know you’ll have plenty of meat while I’m gone."
Kitra sighed heavily and mumbled, "I guess I’ll just have to get used to being alone again, huh?" feeling the depression cloud over her again.
Darius corrected, "Not completely, Jumal will be watching out for you while I’m away. It has already been arranged."
Kitra raised and brow and queried, "Really?" not wanting to face the emptiness inside her heart, or this big hut without her brother around.
Darius answered, "Jumal will be checking on you every day to make sure you’re okay while I’m gone." eyes and tone serious.
Kitra nodded and said, "Thanks."
Darius hugged her and stated, "I know you’ll want your space, but I’m not taking any chances with your safety either. I figured this would be agreeable with you."
"It's fine, thanks," Kitra replied, hugging him back fiercely.
He kissed the top of her head lovingly and insisted, "Time for bed, Kit. Tomorrow I’m going to start training you to use your katana."
Kitra smiled nodding, and kissed his cheek replying, "Awesome! Night Dar, I love you!"
He grinned kissing her forehead, and added, "I love you too, Kit! Now off to bed." Kitra complied and went to her room.
Kitra's POV:
I crawled under my covers releasing a heavy sigh, and thought about the day's events. “Ban would have loved that stew. I wonder what he's doing now. Is he eating okay? I know he's strong, but I sure do miss you.”
I let a few tears fall, wiped my eyes, then rolled onto my side and faced the wall. I heard Darius entering the room.
Regular POV:
Darius went to Kitra's room, tucked her in, kissing her cheek and whispered, "Sweet dreams, Kit."
She gave a small smile and replied, "You too Dar." then she slowly fell asleep.
After assuring himself Kitra was asleep, Darius smiled, stood up and went to his room. He removed his armor and weapons, then crawled into bed and thought about Bankotsu. He whispered, "Be safe, my friend." and rolled onto his side waiting for sleep to over take him. An hour later sleep finally claimed him.
Author's Note: Okay guys and gals there is chapter fourteen please remember to read and review thanks.