Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction / InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Chained To You ❯ Chapter Four ( Chapter 4 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Chapter Shi
Scene: The Castle of the Washi Clan, Otim Mountains

Kagome was glad the other hanyou seemed as down as she was. There was no bubbly chat as they ate their breakfast- no exclamation over the interesting delicacies or large portions. Everyone focused on the task of putting their hands to their mouths and back again.
The miko was glad there was so many dishes to wash. She tried to cleanse her mind as she methodically cleaned the plates. This worked for several hours until she came to the cups, the china still smeared raspberry red. She resisted being sick, and felt a pat on her shoulder.

“Your first time seeing a human being killed?” Hotaru asked. “It's always hardest the first time. After that, it gets easier.”

Kagome swallowed, letting the cups soak, red swirls staining the water.

“How many times have you...?”

“Oh, I've lost count now. Left my last master, because he used to get kicks outta human girls. The border guards are all pretty much corrupt. They're meant to take them back to the Barrier, but some are willing to pay a pretty price for humans.”

Kagome faltered, the servant's words eerily similar to Kaoru's. Hotaru glanced around, making sure they weren't being overheard, and lowered her voice.

“So yeah, my old master, he was a sadist. Then he found one ningen he wanted to keep- real pretty she was- eyes like yours but long, beautiful blonde hair. He still battered her, but always kept her from the brink. She gave birth to about six young 'uns in total- he killed most of them, but the last two, twins, managed to escape. He wrung her neck after that- and enough was enough- I packed my bags.”

The miko knew Hotaru was trying to distract her, but her nausea only increased. She could see the blonde haired girl in her mind's eye, perhaps a princess of some foreign land, brought to Makai to be abused and raped by some warped youkai. She imagined her poor hanyou children trying to escape their murdering father's grasp.

“That's terrible,” Kagome said hollowly, words unable to express her emotions.

“Hopefully it's out their system now,” Hotaru shrugged, “And we can just get on with our jobs.”

Kagome couldn't wait to leave. They only had one day left, but it seemed to drag on forever. The guests were still there, and still had to be cared for. To the miko's disgust, they had put the boy's head on a spike on the castle wall. Birds pecked at his eyes as Kagome hung out the washing, and she was sure she could smell the rotting flesh.

That night, when serving the meal in the Great Hall, Kagome felt sick to her stomach- from the blood stains on the table, the shackles and the cobbled floor- but also from nerves. She was human, and she was painfully aware of this fact. Luckily all the hanyou were acting reserved, so her behaviour didn't stand out. As it was their last meal together, all the guests were extremely drunk. They grew restless, demanding more and more drink and food. Some of the eagle youkai had passed out under the table- others were performing sexual acts on top of it.

They're behaving like animals! Kagome couldn't help but scream inside. She knew youkai were essentially beasts, but she had never seen anyone act like this in the Silver Kitsune Palace. She could only think of Yoko, always so composed. She had thought him cruel- now she actually missed his presence.
The miko tried to work despite her environment, knowing the night must be drawing to a close. She eagerly poured more drink, hoping to get them all drunk and unconscious. In her haste, her hand slipped, and she spilt a little on whom she knew to be the Leader's concubine.

“You idiot!” the female shrieked, jumping to her feet, “My dress, you've ruined it, ruined it!”

“I'm so terribly sorry,” Kagome squeaked, bowing several times, “I'm so sorry, please forgive me!”

“Calm down, lover,” drawled the Leader, “You have so many dresses, one less is no loss!”

“It's the principle, Toru!” rasped the concubine, her wings flapping angrily.

“All right, my love. What will make you happy? She has pretty eyes, like topaz. Would you
like them for a new necklace?”

Kagome felt the colour drain from her face as the concubine clapped her hands gleefully. The Washi Leader rose to his feet, and the miko realised how tall he really was- towering over her, his breath stale, his wings like massive shields at either side of him.

“Please forgive me!” Kagome was shaking so much she was vibrating as she bowed on the ground. This can't be happening, please let this be a dream. I'm still ill in bed and when I wake up Yoko will be there to scold me...

“Unfortunately for you, hanyou, you have offended the mother of my son. Alas, the Gods do not shine on you today.”

Kagome felt the beat of his wings as he turned to his other guests, “Although she will not be as fun as the boy, it would seem tonight's entertainment has presented itself, my friends...”

The miko felt the guards drag her to her feet, as if in slow motion. She saw Hotaru, Naka and the other hanyou servants watch in horror as she was hauled to the table. The still bloody metal cuffs were attached to her wrists as she struggled and protested. A quick slap from the guard shut her up, and she felt her eyes well over. She was face down, unable to see anything but she could hear everything- the all too familiar cackling of the guests that had plagued her dreams the night before.

This is it, then. After everything I've been through, I'm going to die in some random youkai palace...
Kagome felt, rather than saw, the Washi Leader arrive behind her. Her heart beat so fast she was convinced she would die from cardiac arrest before the whip even touched her. She whimpered as something slapped her buttocks, and the guests gave an appreciate laugh.

“Not too often you find such a pretty hanyou,” he remarked, hitting her again, making her jump against the table, the shackles biting cold into her wrists.

“Such a waste,” he said more softly. “But my dearest has demanded punishment, and so punishment it shall be. All you servants from the palace of the mighty Silver Kitsune, watch and learn how I deal with mistakes.”

Kagome tensed, awaiting the harsh blow on her back. But instead gasps filled the room, with the sounds of chairs scraping back on the cobbled floor.

“Well, if it isn't the Silver Prince himself!” barked the Washi Leader. “Welcome, friend! I was just seeing to one of your servants.”

“Greetings, Toru,” replied a clipped and cold voice, “I came to offer my congratulations on your new heir. How fortunate to have a son at last. If I may ask, what crime has my servant committed?”

“I am deeply honoured that you would visit me personally, Yoko!” remarked Toru. “As for the hanyou, she spilt wine on my lover's dress. Such a shame, you know.”

“If that is the case,” the bandit said silky, “Allow me to administer punishment. I am sure I know the whip's bite far better than you, my friend.”

Kagome had her eyes squeezed closed. Surely she had passed out? Or was this a hallucination?

“By all means, Yoko, by all means! I find it a rather inelegant tool if I must say- I much prefer the sword.”

She felt the Washi Leader's intimidating presence move from behind her. Kagome wanted more than anything to cry out the bandit, but she knew that would only make matters worse.  She sensed Yoko approach, heard his light slippered tread, the swish of his rose transforming into a whip.

“The sword is by all means effective in close combat, dear Toru. However, the advantage of the whip is...you never quite know...when it will strike...”

The miko clenched her fists as the vine sliced through the air above her head. She heard screams and shouts as blood splattered and bodies collapsed around her. Struggling in her position, Kagome was unable to look up, but she soon felt soft fingers around her wrists, freeing her from her bonds.

“Yoko!” Kagome gasped, as the kitsune pulled her to her feet. She clung to him to steady her shaking legs, while drinking in the carnage of the room. Toru lay, beheaded on the floor, his concubine in pieces over him. Bandits fought with guards, Washi servants and guests as shouts of “traitors!” and “ambush!” filled the room.

“What is going on!?” the miko exclaimed. Yoko responded by grabbing her and pulling her close, engulfing her in his heady scent. He flicked his whip and decapitated the eagle youkai that had launched himself at the pair.

“I will explain later,” Yoko said, “For now, try and find the other servants and get out of this room. We'll meet you outside.”

“O-okay...” the miko's battle instincts still remained intact despite her years of living a normal life in the human world. She watched Yoko leap into the fray before shaking herself and trying to locate the other hanyou. She spotted some of the servants backed against the far wall and ran to join them, ducking to dodge an enraged eagle attack.

“Come on, we need to get out of here!” she urged them. The females were shell shocked, but nodded dumbly and followed her as they pressed against the circular wall, trying to reach the exit.

“This is all because of you, bitch!” cried a Washi Eagle, appearing from above and raking Kagome's arm with her claws.

“Kagome!” her fellow servants cried, but weapon-less, they were unable to fend the youkai off. The miko picked up a nearby platter and made some successful bashes, before the eagle caught it in her beak and flung it away.

“You're mine!” she cawed, her red eyes glinting as she swooped in for the kill.

Suddenly, a scythe appeared, wrapping around the eagle's neck and pulling her from the air. Kagome glanced over and saw Kuronue wielding the chain.

“Thanks!” she bowed, clutching her arm. The bandit grinned before urging her on, and he dragged the eagle towards him.

“Let's go!” Kagome panted, and finally escaped with the others out the Great Hall.

“Oh Kagome, are you okay?” Hotaru asked, fleeing with the others into the kitchen.

“It's just a deep scratch,” Kagome reassured her, “Where are the others?”

“I saw some get chased upstairs by the guards,” Hotaru explained, “I heard from the bandits that this siege has been planned for a while now, but they just only found out that Bancho had sent us here. They think it was a ploy by the Washi to prevent Yoko making a move. Thank Kami he arrived when he did!”

The miko shook her head, swimming with information and everything that had happened in the last few hours.

“Let's see if we can find the others. Here's some knives we can take!”

Kagome's first instinct was to run, but she knew she couldn't leave the others. Feeling more confident now she was armed, the miko led the group up the staircase, following the shouts and screams along dark corridors. They passed bodies, both from their side and the Washi.

I can't handle it if I see Naka's- it will be like seeing Inuyasha dead.

They were creeping along a dark corridor when guards suddenly burst out of a room ahead of them, chasing some of their fellow servants.

“Kagome!” Naka cried, her white hair billowing behind her, “Run!”

There was no where to run, as Washi servants came thundering up the staircase. Trapped, the miko pushed them into the closest room, which wasn't made of shoji screens but wood. It was pitch black inside but the door was solid.

“Help me!” The miko exclaimed, as she started to prop chairs and other furniture against the door to hold it closed.

The hanyou all moved quickly, and before long the room was devoid of anything to use. The Washi banged against the door, shouting threats and curses.

“We're safe for now!” gasped Naka, “Quick thinking, Kagome-chan!”

“Now we can't move though,” the miko sighed. The only window in the room was a slat, too small for even her arm to fit through.

“We just need to sit tight until the bandits come...” Hotaru assessed.

“Can you smell that?” Naka interrupted suddenly. Sniffing, she bent down and began crawling on the floor.

“What is it?” asked another servant hopefully.

“It's...it's a puppy!” Naka said, surprised. The others followed her gaze with awe to see a little black puppy tied with rope to the wall. It had cowered away when they entered the room, but now they were looking it began to yap.

“How sweet!” Kagome crooned, so happy to take her mind off the bloodthirsty guards outside. She knelt down, and with Naka's assistance, was able to remove the rope from the puppy's collar. It licked her face excitedly, and Kagome cuddled into the little ball of fur.

“He likes you,” Naka laughed, patting the puppy's head. “Kami knows what they were going to use him for!”

“Don't worry, little guy!” Kagome smiled, “You're safe now!”

The miko knew she had bad timing, but even she couldn't believe it when the guards chose this moment to blast the door down.

“Who's first, my pretties?” cooed one of the guards, a particularly gruesome looking youkai with scaly skin. Kagome and the others took an instinctive step back, huddling together, knives extended. The puppy barked, sensing the female's fear, and the guards laughed.

“Aww, I'm so scared!” another guard lisped as they stomped over the now scattered furniture.

“You should be...” hissed a voice behind them, and before Kagome could shield her eyes, the guards were attacked by the bandits, their bodies hacked and mutilated by a combination of swords, whips and arrows.

“Thank you!” the hanyou servants cried, slumping to the ground in relief, then bowing to the bandits. “We thought we were dead for sure there...”

Kagome also felt her legs give out, and she still held the puppy to her chest. He was quiet now, nuzzling into her as she cried silent tears.

“We found them, Yoko-san,” called one bandit, also a silver kitsune who wielded a katana. “The rest of the servants, they're in here!”

Kagome watched with disbelief as the bandits helped the females to their feet, laughing and joking. She realised many had served the bandits for years, not just bringing them food, but also sharing their company, sometimes their beds. There was an equality between these outlaws and these outcasts as they left the room, arm in arm.

That was how Yoko found the miko, sitting on the floor amid a chaos of furniture and bodies. For some reason, she was holding a small dog, cupping it to her body as if it held her heart.

“Kagome,” the Prince realised it was the first time he had spoken her name. She seemed to share the same thought, blinking up at him and shakily getting to her feet.

“You were right,” she spoke softly, “The Makai is a cruel place. You warned me. And...I was lucky. That it was your palace I ended up in...”

Yoko felt his lip quirk. The day had started badly. He had received intelligence that the illness that had killed his many family members had been concocted by none other than his closest allies, the Washi clan. Preparations for battle had been thwarted when he had been informed many of his servants were aiding the Washi's celebratory feast- including Kagome. Toru was known for his cruelty to humans- Yoko could only imagine what he would do with a miko. He had been tormented with these thoughts as he tried to find a way to enter the castle- and get all his servants safely out so he could destroy the Washi bloodline, the way his had nearly been destroyed.

“You discovered the hard way...something I tried to prevent. Trust me, I would not have allowed Bancho to send any of my servants to this place had I been present.”

“I know,” Kagome nodded, her head dipped. Yoko had wanted to break her- now the miko was broken, and he did not feel satisfied in the slightest.

“Let's go,” the Kitsune Prince said softly, and together they left the Palace of the Washi behind.

When they arrived home, bloodstained and exhausted, before they even bathed, the servants gathered in a room with bandits. The pantry was scrounged for food, fine bottles of sake were found, and someone even began to play music on a lute. There was a party atmosphere, as the bandits celebrated their success and their loot, and the servants rejoiced being alive.
Kagome joined in, despite being far from the mood. She was happy to be alive, of course, but grief stricken by the reality of the world she was stuck in. After putting the puppy in her room with a bowl of water and some meat, and reassuring Kaoru she was perfectly fine, she served sake and food along with the others.

“Thanks again, Kuronue-san,” the miko said as she filled the koumori's cup, “I'm eternally in your debt.”

“Any time, Kagome,” Kuronue laughed, toasting to her. After downing his drink, he caught her arm, and rolled back her stained yukata sleeve. “You were injured- have you treated it yet?”

“Oh...” Kagome said, genuinely having forgot about the wound, “Umm...”

“Go clean it out,” Kuronue advised her, “We can't have you catching infection so soon after your last illness.”

“Yes, sir,” Kagome joked, rising and bowing as she left the room.

Unsure how to clean a wound without her first aid kit, Kagome decided to boil hot water in kitchen. As she waited for the stove to heat the pot, she reflected on how safe she felt in this castle.

Even the atmosphere is more relaxed and happy. I guess Kaoru was right all along...Yoko is a good master.

Said master suddenly entered the kitchen, causing Kagome to jerk back to her senses and nearly knock the pot of boiling water over herself. She steadied it at the last minute, only splashing herself a little.

“The bandits are missing you, miko-sama,” he remarked sardonically. “They wish to hear how you managed to single handedly save the servants.”

“I didn't do anything,” Kagome blushed, as she took the pot off the boil and moved it to a cool plate. “It was just the obvious option- none of us could fight, so we had to flee.”

“Did someone request tea?” Yoko asked, drawing closer.

“No, Kuronue told me to clean my wound.”

“Interesting, that you listen to him,” Yoko commented as Kagome shook her sleeve back.

“He's never given me reason not to,” Kagome shrugged, dipping a clean cloth in the hot water and applying it to her wound. She bit her lip, muffling a groan at the heat.

Unaware of him moving, the kitsune was by her side, holding her wrist.

“What caused this?” he asked, peeling back the cloth, his skin on hers. Kagome couldn't help but inhale his rose fragrance, and she felt her heart pulse. Not again!

“C-claws,” she managed, “one of the eagle youkai...”

“Hmm...” Yoko peered at the wound, “It's not too serious, but there's a slight infection. No doubt those claws were pretty dirty...”

Kagome tensed at the thought, suddenly remembering how Toru had used his claws on the human boy. Yoko felt her stiffen.

“Are you in pain?” he asked.

“No...I just...remembered something.” The kitsune sensed she didn't want to expand on the matter, so instead produced some leaves from his hair. Even though Kagome was used to it, the power still amazed her.

Yoko wordlessly rubbed the leaves over her wound. The miko felt a slight prickling, but after the third leaf was used, her cuts felt refreshed and less tight.

“That should do it,” the bandit said, and effortlessly bound up the wound with a clean bandage he produced from his tunic.

“Well, aren't you handy to know,” Kagome joked, rolling down her sleeve. Her sense of humour left her as the kitsune showed a little fang. Oops, did I over step the mark?

“So it seems. That would be how many times I've saved your life now, miko-sama? I believe I need to start keeping a tally.”

“I didn't thank you,” Kagome rushed, feeling as though she was melting in his heated golden gaze, “But really, thank you. I thought it was over for me back there...”

“Thanks accepted. But I wonder, are you 'eternally in my debt' as you are to Kuronue's?”

Kagome felt her blush deepen. “Well...I'm even more so in your debt. Literally. Aren't I paying it off as we speak?”

“I'm not talking about the bandit's debt,” Yoko sighed, “I'm talking about the debt of gratitude you owe me for saving your life.”

“Umm...I guess so?” Kagome fidgeted, unsure where the kitsune was going with this. He was close, too close, his fingers still around her wrist, and she could feel her heartbeat jumping under the bandages.

The bandit smirked. “Now, how exactly are you going to show me how appreciative you are?”

Kagome swallowed, feeling beads of sweat collect under her fringe and under her arms.

What is he getting at? I don't understand...

“You're my personal servant, now, Kagome,” Yoko whispered, moving his fingers to the rosary, touching the tender skin of her neck underneath. The miko felt herself blush at the way he said her name.

“Y-Yoko...” Kagome protested, taking a step back, “What are you doing?”

“Why suddenly so timid, miko-sama?” asked the kitsune, grabbing her waist and pulling her close to him. Feeling her tremble, he pushed back her hair, and murmured into her ear,

“Are you afraid of me now?”

“N-n-no...” Kagome gasped, straining away from his hold as much as her body would allow, “I just don't understand what you're doing!”

At this, the kitsune paused, his golden eyes suddenly filling with delight.

“My little miko...it would seem you're as innocent as your status suggests...”

With that, Yoko held Kagome's head and lower back, and pressed his lips to hers. Kagome squirmed, shaking her head side to side, until the kitsune held her firmly, so tight she was paralysed.  He traced her lips with his tongue before delving into her mouth, chasing her tongue with his. Kagome felt as if she were floating- she was so light headed, as if she had consumed as much sake as the bandits. She had been kissed before, of course- chaste kisses on high school dates and that one kiss with Inuyasha- but never like this. Yoko had complete command of her body, causing sensations she never knew existed to spark in her stomach all the way to her toes. His hands travelled from waist, to cup her buttocks. He squeezed her slightly, triggering the bruises Toru had delivered earlier. The sharp pain, connected with the moment she thought she would die, was like a bucket of cold water over the miko's head.

“Stop- stop it!” Kagome gasped, pushing the kitsune away, holding her hands to her palpitating heart.

“What is it?” Yoko asked, and he could see by the darkness of her eyes she was reliving her near punishment at the hands of the Washi Clan Leader.

“Did he hurt you?” Yoko asked, causing her eyes to snap back to him.

“That's nothing to do with it!” Kagome replied, her cheeks tinting pink from the kiss. “Why did you suddenly kiss me like that?”

Yoko shrugged, tracing his lip idly. “Because, I could.”

“I might be your servant,” the miko stated, “But I am not your plaything! And don't treat me as such!”

With that, the miko left the kitsune.

Yoko pondered her words, wondering why they made him excited, made his blood dance and his heart race.

Because she's the first female to push me away? Because she doesn't want me?

The kitsune felt strange as he walked back to the room. He sat down, allowing the servants to fawn over him, to flatter him and pour him sake.

What occurred, before I saved her from Toru? Yoko thought, his mind turning back to the scene from earlier that day. She had broken the kiss the exact moment he had moved his hands to her behind. Was she flashing back to something? Or did I trigger an injury? He remembered feeling his chest constrict as he saw Kagome bent over the table, her dark hair spilled out over the wood, her hands restrained. He remembered the anger, the hot metallic taste on his tongue, as he saw the Washi Leader raise his whip to strike the miko.

No one shall touch her but me, Yoko thought.


Kagome had a restless sleep, tossing and turning as her dreams featured a fractured film of the day's events. She was confused as to why Yoko had kissed her- he wasn't attracted to her, she was sure.

Was he just proving a point? That he can do what he wants to me?

Before, Kagome might have been furious at such a thought, but now she found herself only slightly irked. In light of what she had seen in the last few days, being kissed by the kitsune was a small price to pay. Yoko had risked both his own life and the life of the bandits in order to save hanyou servants. Most masters, from what she had learned, would have done no so such thing. It would have been far easier for Yoko to blow the castle up, or focus his concentration on killing the Washi, without the burden of saving the servants too.

Either way, I'm grateful...Kagome thought, as she bathed in the stream. Her wrists were tender, and she was certain she had bruise marks on her behind. She flushed when she remembered how Yoko had pulled her close, his hands slipping down to...

Enough of that! The miko shook her head. Those thoughts won't lead me anywhere good!

She laughed a little as her thoughts travelled to a particular monk who has also liked to caress her behind. Just like when Miroku did it...it doesn't mean anything. He's just a perverted fox!

“I'm Juri,” a brown neko hanyou  introduced herself as Kagome passed through the kitchen. “I was Yoko-sama's personal servant before. I've been asked to show you the ropes?”

“Oh, thank you,” Kagome bowed gratefully. “I didn't have a clue what I was supposed to do...”

“He's asleep now, so we can't go into his room,” Juri explained, ushering her into a vacant tatami room.

“Still recovering from last night's party, I guess,” Kagome laughed. “So, what do I need to know?”

Juri smiled, pouring them tea. The miko was envious of the girl's gracefulness. Kagome knew she could only ever be classed as clumsy.

“As is the nature of the bandits, Yoko-sama sleeps late and stays up late, unless there's important palace business,” Juri explained. “I've composed a list of the food he doesn't like here.”

Kagome sipped her tea as she read the list. “Peppers. Pork. Tomatoes. Onions. Hmm, there's quite a few. Thanks for letting me know!”

“Yoko-sama has his first meal at midday, which he takes in his room. Don't tidy up around him- he hates that!” Juri said, making a face that clearly illustrated she'd found out the hard way.

“His scribe prepares his schedule with all his meetings, so you don't need to worry about that. But I always try and get a copy so I can keep tabs on him. His meeting with the Elders are usually long and boring, so I try and provide refreshing green tea, a snack and maybe a hot towel.”

“Okay,” Kagome nodded, trying to commit all this to memory. I'm going to suck at this job compared to Juri. Yoko's going to regret his choice for sure.

“When Yoko-sama's busy, tidy his room. By that, I mean make the bed and collect laundry. Don't move or touch anything else.”

“O-ookay...”

“He usually has his second meal around the hour of the Monkey, and his third meal at the hour of the Dog.”

“Right...” Kagome said, starting to note the information down. Luckily Juri had thought to bring ink and a brush. She's too prepared...

“Unlike the other masters, Yoko-sama does not currently have a concubine. However, he accepts visitors from the pleasure district occasionally. When they arrive, we show them to Yoko's room, and provide them with refreshment until he is ready for them.”

Luckily Kagome was drinking tea at that moment, so when she spluttered, Juri assumed she had choked on the hot water.

“Are you okay?” she asked, passing Kagome a small towel.

“F-fine...” the miko gasped, hitting her chest, “Just swallowed it the wrong way...”

I guess I'll be sleeping elsewhere when he was those sorts of visits!!

Kagome was making her way up the staircase with the intention of feeding her puppy when she was stopped by a bandit she had never seen before. He had long hair, like a black curtain covering his back, and cold violet eyes.

“Oh, a new servant,” he observed, standing in her way between the seventh floor.

Kagome dipped her head in greeting, trying to pass.

“Won't you tell me your name?” the youkai asked. “I'm Kaito, one of Yoko's most trusted bandits.”

Well woop-de-do, Kagome thought.

“Pleased to meet you, Kaito-san,” Kagome said, dripping with fake politeness. “I'm Kagome.”

“And from where do you hail, Kagome?” Kaito asked, his eyes narrowing. “It's unusual to see a nekyo hanyou with such dark hair and blue eyes...and your scent is very...different...”

Kagome felt a cold sweat break out under her fringe. “I'm from the Fuki Arctic clan,” The miko smiled, her cheeks hurting from the effort.

To her surprise, Kaito took a step closer, making the miko retreat instinctively. There's something really creepy about his aura. I need to get away from him!

“Oh, Kagome-chan!” a cheerful voice came from behind her. The miko turned in relief to see one of the neko hanyou males- she couldn't remember his name, but he had black hair and dark eyes, and he was often about the castle delivering messages.

“Hai?” she asked, turning away from Kaito completely.

“Yoko-sama is looking for you- he's in the meeting room,” the boy informed her.

“Thanks!” she beamed, never happier to hear the kitsune's name. “Well then, I must go,” she said, bowing to Kaito and following her fellow servant down the stairs.

Once they had reached the second floor, he pulled her aside.

“Be careful of Kaito, Kagome-chan,” he warned, his smile suddenly replaced by a serious look. “He's known for selecting favourites out of the females and harassing them. He's caused a few to leave the palace in the past.”

Typical, I always attract the weird ones...Kagome sighed inwardly.

“Thanks for the warning...” the miko said.

“I'm Ritsuka, by the way!” the boy grinned, and he left her with a wave.

“You are late,” Yoko observed, as the miko entered the waiting room. It was just he and the scribe, but even so, the miko was on her best behaviour, bowing before entering the room and respectably kneeling before him. She felt a little shy after their kiss, and kept her eyes down.

“Sorry, I was held up by one of your bandits...”

“Oh?” asked Yoko, his eyes narrowing.

Kagome opened her mouth to explain what had happened, but something held her back. I'm always causing him trouble, she thought. There's no point in telling him, it's hardly that big a deal.

So Kagome shrugged and said, “They wanted to to know the hour, that's all.”

Yoko looked sceptical, so Kagome quickly asked, “Anyway, what do you need me for? I spoke with Juri, she told me you were still in bed.”

“Well, I have had messages from other clans since the Washi battle- their comrades are threatening war. I am having a meeting later with some envoys in the Throne Room, so I will have my meal now.”

“Yes,” Kagome nodded, her speech stilted as she realised the scribe was watching her. She took in his green eyes and red hair with a stab to the heart. Shippo...it's been so long since I've seen you.

“What is it?” Yoko asked, drawing her out of her trance.

Kagome shook her head. “Nothing,” she smiled. “I'm Kagome,” she said, introducing herself to the scribe. “I'll be replacing Juri as Yoko-sama's personal servant, so please take care of me.”

The scribe bowed nervously at the sudden attention. “Ah, yes,” he stuttered. “I'm Kentaro. Please take care of me also, Kagome-dono.”

Yoko watched her leave the room, and he was curious at the sudden change in her demeanour. He realised he knew nothing about her background- only that she was from the human world, and a miko with obvious experience of demons. It seemed that Kentaro had upset her- had she known a red kitsune, perhaps? Said scribe was currently still blushing after the interaction with the girl.
The Prince shook his head. He had enough matters to contend with, never mind thinking about such trifles.

It was strange seeing so much of Kagome- she was always nearby, as his personal servant. She seemed to be trying hard, and he acknowledged her work ethic as a ningen trying to pose as a hanyou. He found himself often watching her, instead of listening to the meeting. She was distracting, and he couldn't pin point why. It must be because I am concerned she will reveal our secret.

The meeting with the envoys was long and difficult. Yoko wasn't skilled at peace talks- his talent lay in strategy and war. He let his advisers do the talking while he posed as the figurehead over the proceedings. Two hours into talks, Yoko could feel his eyelids getting heavy. With perfect timing, Kagome appeared by his side, so quietly he hadn't noticed her enter the room. She placed the china  teapot and cup noiselessly on the table, carefully holding down the lid as she poured the tea. Yoko couldn't help but observe the smallness of her wrist with the movement, the paleness of her skin against the navy yukata.

“Also, Prince Koga of the Eastern Wolf Tribe, wishes to know the reason for the sudden disappearance of the Washi Clan. Although there was no love lost between them, he states and I quote, “I still had beef with that bastard Toru.”

As the table erupted into laughter, Kagome dropped the cake she had been holding and a little gasp left her lips. Luckily the cake fell into her lap and she picked it back up quickly, but Yoko still saw. He also witnessed her eyes widen and darken, and her hand shake as she put the plate on the table. The kitsune's attention was caught- just like earlier with her reaction to the red kitsune. Has something in the conversation made her act like this?

“Is there anything else my master requires?” she whispered, her eyes on the floor. Her voice seemed higher than usual.

Yoko smirked to hear her address him in such a way, but he knew it was due to the audience. He noticed a few of the envoys were watching Kagome. Now she was back to full health, her beauty had been restored. Most of her long, black hair was swept up in a navy ribbon, exposing some of her neck. The contrast of her pale skin and dark hair was the epitome of a Japanese beauty- the addition of her blue eyes made her even more interesting.

I didn't foresee her appearance posing these problems...

The Prince rolled his head, cracking his neck. “I will take a bath after this meeting. Go and prepare it for me.”

Yoko didn't miss the miko swallow, or the slight increase of her heart rate.

She bowed, “Hai, Yoko-sama,” and quietly left, most of the room's occupants gazing after her.


Kagome walked quickly to the seventh floor, her eyes blind to anyone who passed her. She didn't stop until she reached Yoko's room, not even registering the barks coming from her own. She sank down on the floor next to the pool, and put her head in her hands.

Koga is here. He's alive in this time. Does that also mean...Inuyasha?

The miko was torn. Should she ask Yoko outright, and reveal her past? She was sure, given Yoko's nature, he would try and keep them apart. No matter what had changed between them, the fact remained she was still a servant repaying a debt.

I wonder, is Kouga still the same? How many years have passed? Will he remember me?

The miko stared into space for what seemed like hours, until the barking grew louder and she snapped out of it.

Dammit, Yoko's bath!!!

The miko jumped up, nearly tripping over her own feet in her haste. Juri had told her that Yoko's room was the only one in the palace with indoor plumbing, using bamboo pipes fed from the hot spring. It had been such a troublesome and costly affair that the kitsune had refrained from installing the system elsewhere. Besides, the Elders didn't like the idea of bathing inside.

Kagome quickly pulled down the bamboo pole from its position on the wall. Hot water gurgled from the reserve, and she guided the pole so it diagonally swung into the pool. It was not large, but was deep, as was the tradition with Japanese baths. She inspected the flasks at the side, trying to work out what was the equivalent of bubble bath.

Luckily, one was salt based and the other liquid, so she poured the salts into the bath. The water began to bubble and steam rose around her, making her flustered. She pushed open the shutters to allow ventilation into the room. Soon the aroma of roses filled the air, making the miko's head spin. Of course, it would be roses.

She took the opportunity to collect laundry and fix the kitsune's bed as the bath ran. Usually she would have been embarrassed doing something so intimate, but her brain was whirling with the new information she had just heard at the meeting.

Kagome was so distracted she didn't even hear Yoko enter the room, and turn off the water. She was absent-mindedly fluffing up the pillows, so she squeaked when she turned around and saw him undressing.

“You're acting strange today,” the kitsune observed, and Kagome turned away from him, her cheeks flushed. I didn't even hear him arrive!

“Sorry,” Kagome said, biting her nails.

She heard the splash of the water as the kitsune entered the bath, and waited a few more moments until she was sure he was fully submerged before taking a peep.

“You can look,” Yoko chuckled, the water lapping his chest, “Honestly, you're such a peculiar creature.”

“How so?” Kagome huffed, ignoring him completely and collecting his disposed clothes, putting them in a handy laundry basket.

Yoko's eyes followed her around the room, amused. “My servants long to see me undressed- yet here you are, averting your eyes like a good little miko should...”

“I've seen my fair share of naked youkai, thank you very much!” Kagome informed him, looking up from the basket and holding his gaze.

“Oh really?” Yoko mused, lathering soap in his hands, “It amazes me that you are still a virgin, then...”

At this, Kagome turned bright red. “That's none of your business!”

Yoko shrugged, “Just making an observation...”

“Well, I'll leave you to observe,” Kagome snapped, heaving the basket onto her shoulder and  turning around to leave the room.

“Hold on, Kagome,” Yoko called, and his voice caressed her name, “You're my personal servant, remember. I need you to wash my hair.”

Kagome looked over her shoulder in disbelief at the kitsune, who wore a smirk on his face.

“Or if you cannot handle that, go and fetch Juri. I know she is more than capable...”

Kagome gritted her teeth, dropping the basket and sliding the door shut again. Yoko watched her reaction with satisfaction, realising how much fun it was to tease her.

The miko knelt down by the pool, rolling up her long sleeves and tying them back so she wouldn't get wet. “Should I use this one?” she asked, shaking the bamboo flask holding the liquid.

“Yes...” Yoko nodded, and he submerged himself in the water, soaking his hair. It was so long, and it stuck to his back, the silver standing out against his honey coloured skin. His ears twitched as they shook off water droplets, and Kagome bit her lip.

Must...not...touch...the...ears!

She lathered the shampoo in her hands, not at all surprised when the scent of roses coated her skin. It was baby pink colour, and she nervously reached out to touch Yoko's hair.

Truthfully, she had wanted to know what it felt like. Inuyasha hair's was thick and coarse- on the rare time she had came into contact with it, she had noticed how little he took care of it. Yoko's hair was ridiculously soft- it was in better condition than her hair had ever been, even after treatments at the salon. Luckily Kagome had experience washing hair for others- she had helped Sango many times when the slayer had been injured. Yoko tilted his head forward, exposing his broad shoulders and solid back. Kagome noted a few scars marring his skin as she massaged the kitsune's head. She added more shampoo to her hands, lathered again, and began to wash his long locks, admiring how the different platinum tones became visible when wet. After ensuring every strand was soapy, she returned to his head, rubbing around his ears and focusing on the base of his neck. She knew he had requested the bath because he had felt stressed- the least she could do, as his personal servant, was try and relieve the tension.

The kitsune made a gruff noise, and Kagome immediately stopped. “Sorry, am I hurting you?” she asked.

“No, keep going,” Yoko told her, relaxing into her touch.

The kitsune was spaced out. He hadn't expected the miko to be so good with her hands- that was a little trick she had kept up her sleeve! As her fingers worked their magic, he could feel the tension of the day dissolving. Juri had always ghosted over his hair- frightened of him, he had barely felt anything when she assisted him. Kagome's presence, on the other hand, was very much there- her fingertips seemed to know exactly where to press on his scalp, his temples, behind his ears. She used kneading motions that were causing unprecedented reactions in his body.

Thank Kami this water is deep...the kitsune thought, as he felt his cock twitch to attention. Yoko knew he should really stop her, but the feeling was too damn good, and it was so long since he had felt so at ease.

Unconsciously he leaned his head back into her hands, and the miko was surprised by his expression. With his eyes closed, and his mouth slightly open, the Prince looked peaceful, almost calm. It was a side she had never seen to him before, and she was captivated by his face. He is actually quite handsome like that... she thought.

Kagome was almost sad to stop, but her wrists were aching. “Please rinse your hair now,” she asked quietly. It took the kitsune a while to respond. Finally he shook his head, and leaned forward, dipping his hair into the pool. The miko stood up, diverting her gaze from his back and bare arms, because the sight was having a funny affect on her. She dried her hands, then prepared a fresh towel for the kitsune, folding it at the side of the pool.

“What would you like to wear?” Kagome asked, approaching his wardrobe as Yoko wrung out the excess water from his hair.

“I'll pick something,” Yoko said, his voice gravelly. “You can go and have your meal now.”

Kagome hadn't even registered she was hungry. Glad to have an excuse to leave the naked thief, she bowed her head and left the room.

Yoko was now extremely turned on and pissed off. He was angry at himself for having such a reaction to her touch- a miko's touch at that!- when he had been brought up by female servants his whole life. He drained the bath and lay on his bed, gripping his erection, his scalp still tingling from invisible fingerprints. The kitsune tried to think of every other women he had slept with or knew of as he pleasured himself, but it was the black hair and blue eyes that kept worming their way into his vision. He came in a rush, unable to stop himself from imagining the miko's tiny hands around his cock.

Kagome bumped into Kuronue after she finished her meal.

“Yo, Kagome,” smiled the bat, and Kagome felt a warm affection for the bandit.

“Hi Kuronue. What are you up to? Looking for Yoko?”

“Nah, I've spoken to him. I'm just about to head to the Ningenkai.”

“Oh,” Kagome's breath caught in her throat, and Kuronue looked embarrassed.

“You know, I'd take you with me if I could,” he said, lowering his voice. “But I travel there in my bat form. I can't pass through the barrier otherwise.”

“I see,” Kagome smiled.

“Is there anything I can fetch for you?” Kuronue asked hopefully.

“Actually...” the miko said, her hands pressed together, “Could you deliver a letter to my family?”

Kuronue led her to his room on the third floor. It wasn't as grand as Yoko's, but it was clear Kuronue had an eye for pretty things. There were many treasures in glass boxes and painted scrolls on the wall. There was a particularly beautiful miniature on a table near his bed, of a red kitsune geisha. Her long, red hair was cut hime style, showcasing her beautiful green eyes, that seemed to gaze desperately at the viewer. She was holding a purple parasol and seemed to be sheltering from the rain.

“You won't get into trouble?” Kagome asked nervously, as she sat at the low table.

“Don't worry- Yoko and I go wayyy back. Plus, I quite like keeping secrets from him. Kami knows he lords it over me enough!”

Kagome giggled as she accepted the brush and ink from the bandit.

“Obviously, you can say you're in the Makai, if your family know about youkai,” Kuronue commented. “But I'd request you didn't give away your exact location. I think Yoko would be mad, even at me, if you said that.”

“Okay,” Kagome agreed. The well is closed anyway...it's not like Inuyasha would get a chance to read the letter. I can at least assure my family I'm safe and alive...

“Thanks for this, I really appreciate it,” the miko bowed after she handed the letter to Kuronue.

“No problem, kid,” Kuronue said, playfully patting her on the head. “No matter what Yoko says, don't let it get you down. I've seen my fair share of human girls, and I don't know any that could cope in this world the way you do.”

Kagome blushed, accepting the compliment. She was still pink cheeked as she left the room and walked right into the path of Kaito.

“Oh, we meet again, Kagome-chan,” drawled the violet eyed demon. “What were you doing in Kuronue's room? I thought you were Yoko's personal servant?”

“I am,” Kagome said defensively, “I was delivering a message for him.”

The miko stormed off, not liking the aura or attitude of Kaito one bit. She didn't know what type of youkai he was- only that he was dangerous.

Kagome finally reached her room, and fed the little puppy, who barked with excitement at seeing her. She petted him as he tore into the meat.

“We're not in Kansas any more, Toto,” she laughed half heartedly.


I think I'll be updating every two weeks now ^^ Thanks for your continued support of this fic everyone!

Reviews:

-FF-

chibi moon baby: he's not as cold hearted as he seems, ne? ^^ Yes, there will be a few!
Guest: Hope you liked!

gracefulspider: thank you! ^^

tinabug: Thank you, I always strive to be realistic! Yes, she's no longer naive, as this chapter further proves!

DarkFallMoonBeloved: Ahh, that's a secret ^^

Valleygoat: Thanks very much! I agree, the best stories I've read have a dark side to them!

demon's purity: Haha can't tell you that! Well kinda like Inuyasha, she's learned to live with it!

Guest: This is by far the darkest fic I've ever written. There will be many dark parts to come, so don't worry! I agree, it's much better at illustrating character depth.

HlfDemonLvr7703: Thank you so much!! It really makes my day to get such praise for my work!! ^^

Lairenna: Bancho will get what's coming to her haha, I just didn't have space in this chapter!

Anonymous Perspective: I know right? I live for my food! Ahh thank you. It was something I added recently (I've had this chapter written for about a year) so I was worried it wouldn't fit, glad you liked it ^^
Haha I love moments like that, I often embarrass myself in public doing that!!
Thank you! Haha you and the reviewer above should join a Bancho hate club hehe!

-MM-

purplebabe: Thanks for the notice, it uploaded fine on FF so I didn't even glance over it here! No idea what happened, but saving it in a different format solved the problem. Technology!
Ahh that's a secret...but yes, she will meet some from her past ^^