InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Traveling and Encountering the Enemy ( Chapter 4 )

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

Disclaimer: The characters of Inuyasha are not mine; they are property of Rumiko Takahashi, Shogakukan, Yomiuri TV, Sunrise, and Viz. I make no money from these writings and all original characters are mine.



Traveling and Encountering the Enemy


I had hurt him and I could not deal with the guilt. I never had to feel guilty about anything and I truly had no idea how to handle it. We would be in Niigata tomorrow and aboard ship for about three days. I had to make a truce with him or I was going to go mad with the guilt. I brought down my barrier and went back into the encampment. I allowed myself to feel his aura and I tracked him down quickly. He was with his advisor Sheng and it looked as if they were partaking of sake. I stood about twenty feet away and stared at him. The soldiers had put up large tents to act as barracks and shelter. Katashi was sitting outside an opulent tent. He had changed and was in a black yukata, I realized that he favored that color. My heart was wrenching and I raised my head and went before him.

"We will speak." I said.

"There is nothing left to say my Lady. If you care to sit and have some of your father's wonderful vintage, then by all means sit." He slurred.

"You are drunk." I stated flatly.

"Yes, yes I am. I intend to get drunker still. Sit please." He said sweeping his arm in an arc.

I stared frigidly at Sheng and he stared at me with contempt.

"Remove yourself now!" I thundered at Sheng.

Katashi straightened and looked quite angry. I turned my glare at him and he shook his back and forth. I raised my claw and slashed Sheng's face. He stood to defend himself and Katashi stood between us.

"These youkai may be your people but Sheng is mine. Do not ever raise arms or claw against him ever!" He yelled.

"I told him to leave. Amongst my brethren he will obey or he will die." I stated with venom.

"Sheng, please leave so that I may speak with the West's bitch." He said insulting me.

I could feel the ire of my youkai subjects around me. Sheng stared at me as if he wanted me dead and I stared straight through him.

"I wish to speak to you alone." I asked Katashi in a low voice.

"Why not here, Lady Asuna." He stated as if my name were poison.

"Fine then." I seethed.

"Speak onna. You speak well." He slurred again.

"Yuudai." I yelled.

"Hai my Lady." He bowed as he came forward.

"Assist Lord Katashi into the tent." I commanded.

"Hai." Yuudai answered.

"Do not touch me if you wish to continue to breathe." Katashi snarled.

"Then remove yourself into the tent Lord Katashi." I stated.

Katashi growled fiercely but did as I bade. He moved inside of the tent and I followed. I put up a barrier to give a little privacy, as I was not used to my private affairs being so public. I moved behind him and moved his raven hair off his shoulder and bared his mating mark. He tried to flinch away from me but I lowered my lips to the marred flesh and sucked and licked at it. He growled but I continued with my ministrations.

"I apologize. I am regretful of my words." I murmured against his skin.

My beast was purring at the contact. He continued to flinch but I held onto him.

"I am sorry, please I am asking for you to forgive me."

"Unhand me." He replied.

"No." I mumbled.

"Asuna do not." He sighed.

I ignored him and bit into the mark. He stiffened and I was letting instinct guide me. I needed my mate's forgiveness and I intended on getting it. I tasted his sweet blood and licked at the wound. He shook but tried to remain unaffected. My hands came around him at the waist and ran my hands up from his abdomen to his chest. I could feel his muscles ripple under the silk.

"Katashi; please." I said begging him.

"You will be the death of me!" he exclaimed as he pulled me to face him.

He lowered his head and possessed my mouth. I cried out against his lips. He pulled back and stared at me. I knew my eyes were moist but I would not shed the tears. I was trying to show him emotion and it seemed he accepted. He kissed me again, but this time it was slow and passionate. He lazily ran his tongue along my fangs. He gently starting sucking on my bottom lip and I moaned. He tore himself from my lips and breathed.

"Asuna." He groaned.

"Let us relax for now. You are right. I have grown up repressing my beast. You must understand this is the way I am." I whispered.

"I confess, I do not understand; but I have time. We have time if you will allow us to." He murmured.

"I do not understand your ways either, but I want to try. Something in me is screaming to make you understand." I said laying my head to his chest.

"Koi, it is your inu nature. When we reach Manchuria I will show you my true form." He mumbled.

"You have drunk too much sake." I stated admonishing him

"Hai, I have and I intend to finish the bottle. You sire has excellent taste." He said chuckling.

"I will not join you in that endeavor. I hate that vile drink." I said in disgust.

"Lift your barrier that I may partake." He commanded grinning.

I lifted the barrier in annoyance but decided to leave well enough alone. I knew that this would not be our last fight but one of many. I stood to leave and he looked at me with passion that left me breathless.

"I came to the islands to find allies; I did not expect to find the mate of my soul." He whispered to me.

"You are drunk and speak nonsense. We will be in Niigata in the morrow." I uttered.

"Lie with me." He demanded.

"After your sake maybe. I do feel it would be wise to keep our mating secret for now." I said.

"I do not care about that right now, send Sheng to me." He cried.

"Hai." I said leaving.

I exited the tent and found Sheng nearby. I stared at him and bade him to come over to me.

"Katashi asks for you and the bottle of sake." I stated coldly.

"Hai, Lady Asuna." He said as coldly.

"I do not answer to you, nor will I ever. Do not make the mistake of coming between my mate and me again." I said dangerously.

"As you wish Lady." He said narrowing his eyes.

I went in the direction of a nearby stream. I would hunt; that would dissipate some of this energy. I was falling in love with Katashi and I was more frightened by that thought than anything I had ever faced.

I returned a couple of hours later, I was invigorated. I had taken down a boar in my true form. The raw meat had been Kami sent. I entered the tent that Katashi occupied and found him on the futon. He still wore the black yukata and he was lying on side. I could scent the sake and it disgusted me. I had never developed a taste for it and truly could not fathom the allure. I shed my clothes and went to the futon and lay next to him. I spooned his form and set a barrier around the tent. I ran my claw through his hair and down his side. I sighed and realized he was addictive. I wondered what his court was like and how they differed from the Western one. He was fast asleep and I hoped that he would wake easy in the morning. I let sleep take me and was soon out.

I was awakened by my neck being nuzzled. I felt his need pressed against my back. I ground my bottom against his front, it was all the encouragement he needed and he slipped inside of me. I gasped at the different angle and he hissed in pleasure. His hands were busy cupping my breasts; then they were pressed against my abdomen. He continued nuzzling my neck and moving against me. Sighs and pants escaped my lips.

"Mother to my pup." He murmured against my neck and held my stomach.

"Please." I cried out softly.

He thrust into me harder, responding to my plea. I was pushed over the edge into the abyss. I cried out softly with my release and he followed suit. He pressed his face into the crook of my neck and I did not move. My limbs were heavy in the moments after our joining.

"Mmm. I do not wish to move." He said breathing in my scent.

"Nor I but that will not get us to your home." I replied lazily.

"Ugh. I need to bathe." He said slipping from me and putting his yukata back on.

"There is a stream about a kilometer into the forest." I replied.

"Then if you would care to join me?" he asked with a smile.

"No, I think not. I would ravish you." I answered honestly.

He laughed gently and went to the opening of the tent.

"You will have to lower the barrier." He said.

I stretched lazily, still naked and still very hungry for his body. I shook my head at him and snaked my way to him and pressed my body to his. I kissed him and my hands grasped his buttocks.

"Kami Asuna." He groaned.

"I must release you." I sighed.

"I will never tire of your touch." He said blissfully.

"Hn." Was my reply.

I slipped away from Katashi and lay back down and covered myself with the coverlet, I lowered the barrier so that he could leave. After he was gone a short while, I forced myself to dress in a pale blue haori and hakamas. My obi was of a midnight blue. I left my hair free and slipped out of the tent unnoticed.

We arrived in Niigata at the end of the day. My small army consisted of one hundred of the West's best warriors. The Northern dens had also given us thirty ookami warriors. There were fifteen ships at our disposal. Niigata was an emerging port city that faced the Sea of Japan. The city was on the outskirts of the Western Lands and had a large ningen population. The Tokugawa shogunate issued red seal patents to the ships sailing to and from the continent and my father took a cut from the profits. It worked out well for the ningen to have the support; albeit quietly, of the most powerful youkai lord in Japan. The ships would be inconspicuous when we landed in Lushun at the mouth of the Bohai Gulf. The general air amongst my men was one of anticipation. There was nothing like spilling blood to get a youkai up and ready for anything.

Niigata was a small city that was made up of merchants both ningen and youkai. It was mostly a haven for both groups but my father did have to keep a small contingent of soldiers as a police force in order to maintain that tenuous peace.

I made the decision to stay in the city for the night and leave in the morning with the tide; that would give us our greatest speed. The city boasted several inns and I chose the largest.

I arranged for Katashi and me to have adjoining rooms. I was going to attempt to keep up pretenses but I knew that quite a few of my youkai brethren already knew that the Lady Asuna was mated to Lord Katashi. I put a hand to my abdomen and felt a sudden thrill run through me.

The local magistrate was a neko. Though inu and neko were natural enemies in the wilds, they were useful creatures in administrating areas. His name was Fukuda and I called upon him for fiscal and other information. I satisfied my responsibilities as the represenetive of government and went down to the docks and inspected the ships. The ships were Atakebune. They were truly more suited for coastal blockades but they were heavily fortified vessels. My officers had modified them with sails but they were also under oar power. The sun was setting and the colors were glorious oranges and reds. I looked over the sea and knew that the peace was being replaced with violence and gore.

We were on the water for three days. In the down time; I kept myself busy with preparations. The ningen were likely to attack in an organized fashion whereas the youkai would lie in wait…waiting for what they supposed was a weak moment. I wondered at the lack of attacks during Katashi's absence. There had been minor skirmishes but not direct battles. I was apprehensive about entering Katashi's lands and not having enough information on Bai Gu Jing. I was also apprehensive in appearing in Katashi's court. I was reading reports that Hideaki had dispatched. Jing rivaled Naraku in sheer evilness. Hideaki has reported anecdotal information of entire villages being slain; the gore had been terrible. I was getting uncomfortable with the situation and I wanted to find a quick solution to this problem. I was starting to have symptoms of pregnancy; I was ravenous all the time except I did not keep the food down. I continued the mask the scent but within two moon cycles it would be evident that I was pupped. I also kept Katashi's scent off of me, he was not pleased but we did not argue on the topic further.

The following day, land was sighted and we disembarked at the village of Lushun. I was surprised and shocked at how the ningen and youkai alike fell prostrate before Katashi. They treated him as if he was a Kami. I held myself in check when other females touched him. I had to turn my head and not look. We made it as far as Zhuanghe the first day; the village was along the coast. We stayed at the village inn for the evening. I laid on the futon and wished for more patience. I had wanted to tear out several bitches throats today and I was cold to Katashi. I knew as soon as he finished his duties he would be here to talk to me; I was in no mood for it. I rolled to my side and read more on my mate. He was three hundred ninety eight summers. He had never been mated before and apparently was much loved by his peoples. I wondered how much love was supplied by rutting partners. I should not care but I did. He knocked on the shoji door and entered.

"You are not eating." He remarked.

"I do not feel up to it." I snapped.

"The pup needs the nourishment." He said firmly.

"Do not command me Katashi." I said flippantly.

"Asuna, what bothers you?" he asked sitting next to me.

I threw the papers I had been reading at him. I hissed in anger and rolled back to my side away from him.

"This is just biographical information about me, what ails you about this?" he asked smirking.

"Your people touch you too much." I snarled at him.

"What?" he asked incredulously.

"You get angered when I practice my skill with one of my warriors but your people touch you." I accused him.

"Asuna, you are acting irrational. Koi, I have a good relationship with those that I rule."

"You get jealous of males around me but if a bitch touches you." I snapped again.

"I saw how that warrior looked at you. I could scent his intentions." He replied calmly.

"That is fine. The next bitch that touches you other than me will have her throat ripped out." I growled.

He laughed and lay beside me. I tried elbowing him but he nuzzled my mark and I calmed.

"I am afraid and I hate being afraid. I hate double standards and I absolutely hate walking in blind to an enemy's clutches." I said.

"We are not walking in blind. I have tried the diplomatic route and I see the proverbial handwriting Asuna.

I went to Japan to get support from a familial clan. I will not allow the skirmishes to get worse." He replied smoothly.

"You realize that I am a liability to you. You act as though there is nothing wrong Katashi. I cannot sense much apprehension in you at all." I stated.

"You are my mate. You cannot do anything but bring me strength. I do not feel apprehension because it will do no good."

"I do not understand you at times. Knowledge is power and that same knowledge can be used against you." I said sitting up.

"Do you doubt that I could protect you?" he asked me surprise.

"I am not some helpless pup that cannot defend itself. If I remember correctly, I did substantial damage to you in our little contest. I do not need your protection." I replied.

"Why is my desire to protect you so offensive?" he asked in a serious tone.

"Because it means you think less of my abilities. It means you do not think of me as your equal." I said.

I had actually been honest with him and without being horrible to him. I disliked myself in my weakness. I cursed my beast for forcing me into a situation where I had to care!

"Kamis Asuna! You are the most powerful inu bitch I have ever seen. You have abilities I have never seen.

My desire to protect you is because I love you." He said forcing me to look at him.

"Do not say that." I said suddenly angry.

"That I love you?" he asked confused.

"Yes. There is no room for love right now. Do not make things so easy for your enemies." I said thinly.

"Fine, I will not say it. I can think whatever I wish. Now can we have a meal?" He said in good humor.

I stared at him in disbelief. He was naturally good natured and was free with his emotions and it truly boggled my mind.

"I want to hunt. I am not keeping this ningen food down." I said standing.

"I will hunt with you." He said also standing.

"Why?" I said exasperated.

"Because I promised to show you my true form." He said winking at me.

I thrilled at the idea and nodded. He pulled me to him and leaned down and pressed his lips to mine.

Will you allow me to hunt for you without seeing it as a slight against your abilities?" he asked against my lips.

"Yes, I would be honored." I said back.

He gave me one of his dazzling smiles that made me weak in my knees. Yes, I would have to rip out any bitch's throat that would touch him. He pulled me behind him and we slipped out of the inn like two errant pups. We went in the direction of the forest. He led me a few kilometers until we came to a small river. He had a rebellious gleam in his eye and I realized that he enjoyed the freedom as much as I did.

"Close your eyes." He commanded quietly.

"Why?" I asked arching a brow.

"Because I want you to." He said tracing my mating mark with a clawed digit.

I nodded and closed my eyes. I was thrilling at our little adventure and I was being overcome with desire. I felt him step back from me and the air in the area changed. I recognized the pressure of yoki and knew he was changing; I obediently kept my eyes closed. A few moments passed and I felt a rather large nose sniffing me. I opened my eyes and smiled rather wide. He was black as I thought he would be. He was larger than I was in my true form. His eyes were red but his pupils were not blue…they were green. His fur was the blackest black and long. I reached out and touched his side and he lowered his muzzle and pushed me a little with his nose. I smiled at him and rubbed the fur between his eyes. His eyes held a sparkle in them as if he was amused. He was heavily muscled but sleek.

"You are magnificent." I said in awe.

His tongue came out and licked my face. I placed a chaste kiss on his nose and proceeded to peruse his body. Yes, he was magnificent. No one would know his true power because he kept it hidden. His was always at the surface but just below. He was always underestimated I surmised, and that would prove fatal for his enemies. His ears were twitching and he lifted them. He lifted his muzzle and sniffed the air. I realized that he had caught the scent of prey. I recognized the change in his air. He looked behind me and stared me down.

"I will stay here. Go and catch our meal mate." I said softly.

He took off in a run and I sat down by the stream. I was not used for anyone hunting for me but I found it pleasing. I had been alone for a few minutes when I felt a very strong aura that was not Katashi's. I stood up slowly and looked around. I could not see anything but that did not mean something was not there. I put a claw on my katana and moved further into the trees. I could not pinpoint the direction of the aura. The presence was malevolent and the pressure was getting stronger. I allowed my Dakkasou to rise to the surface of my left claw. I had not mastered changing the Dakkasou in a weapon of energy as my father had. I could grow it into a ball of pure acidic poison and throw it; that had served me well in the past. The aura passed and I slipped my katana back into its sheath. I reabsorbed my poison and decided I was better served standing. I leaned against a tree and waited. Not even a moment passed and I was knocked flat on my back.

I snarled in surprise. Above me was a thinning mist and a female youkai stood over me. Her hair was black with white streaks. Her eyes were black and opaque. She was thin, almost skeletal. She wore a formal robe of black and white. Her hair almost came to the ground. Her aura was pulsing and it was sickening.

"So you are my new enemy." She stated smirking down at me.

I got my wits about me and rolled to my side and quickly pushed myself up off the ground.

"And who in the seven hells are you?" I sneered.

"Ah well I go by many names but you may call me Jing."

I was getting sick to my stomach and I realized that all the reports were wrong. Bai Gu Jing was female and she was a creature from the netherworld. I stared at her with contempt and waited. She seemed to be circling me.

"You are a curious creature. You are inu, that I have no doubt. You stink like the dog you are." She said laughing.

"Why accost me here and alone?" I asked arching a silver brow.

"To return something you obviously lost." She said smiled.

I grew apprehensive and my mind grew concerned for Katashi. She reached into her robes and removed the head of my general Hideaki. She rolled it to me and it touched my feet. I was growing sicker by the minute and I wanted to disembowel her.

"These will be my lands. You would be wise to understand that. He tasted so sweet. It must have been his foreign blood." She stated with a smirk.

I prayed to the Kamis for Hideaki soul and I put my claw to my katana ready to strike.

"You really are a tiresome creature, consider this your warning. I would feast but seeing as I have already eaten for the night, I will spare you. I imagine I will be seeing you again, you inu are terribly persistent."

She said licking her lips and staring at my general's head. I rushed her intent upon stabbing her with my blade but she vanished in mist. I heard laughter and it finally stopped. I turned my head away from the severed head and vomited. Hideaki had been a loyal and courageous warrior. His eyes were still open and I bent down and closed them. I could not bring myself to pick it up and my hands were shaking. I vomited till I was dry heaving. I had not counted on such a personal attack, the enemy knew more than what we had anticipated.

I moved away from the head and went to the stream and cupped some water in my hands and drank trying to get the bile out of my mouth. I hated to leave the area but I intended to get the army up and moving. I intended to be in Katashi's capital of Shenyang no later than tomorrow.

I moved away from the stream and used my yoki and turned into a ball of light. I was almost instantly back at the inn. I transformed back into my humanoid form and a little ningen man jumped up frightened.

"Calm yourself. I need you to find me your Lord's advisor, Sheng." I said gently.

"Hai my Lady!" he said running.

I went into the inn where my officers were and went to Yuudai's room. I knocked sharply on the screen and waited for him to answer.

"Come." I heard the sleepy reply

I entered and he rose up from his futon and bowed. I inclined my head and spoke.

"Hideaki is dead; you are the new general. I need the warriors roused and ready to mobilize in the hour."

"My lady?" he said getting off his futon.

"I met the enemy. She delivered me Hideaki's severed head. We need to meet up with Lord Katashi's army as soon as possible."

"Hai my lady. What shall I do about the general's remains?" he asked quietly.

"I will need you to retrieve it and we will burn his remains. He deserves to rest well in the netherworld." I commanded; my face blanching.

"Hai my lady."

I turned on my heel and head to my own room. I was sick again when Sheng came to my room. He walked in and I looked up at him. My eyes had watered from the vomiting and he was surprised.

"My general has been killed. I met Jing tonight. Katashi is hunting in the forest." I managed.

"My lady have you been harmed." He asked with concern.

"I see you know about the pup." I observed.

"I grew up with Katashi my lady, we are as brothers." He said defensively.

"There is no more animosity Sheng. I am his mate and I accept him. I need you to find him." I requested.

"Hai!"

"He is in his true form." I stated.

"I understand." He said leaving.

I went to window and stared out. It had begun.

I watched as the small blaze burned hot. Yuudai had returned with the general's head wrapped in his haori. We honored him so that he would find peace. I buried my claws into my palms in overwhelming anger. I had sent him to his death and I would be the one to tear the bitch's head from her body. Blood dripped onto the ground from my palms and I continued to stare at the flames. Yuudai came and bowed before me. He looked up at me and I saw his eyes were troubled.

"Speak." I said bitterly.

"Hideaki was a seasoned warrior my Lady." He stated.

I knew his thoughts for they were my own and I growled in response.

"Our enemy is a shape shifter." I stated.

"Hai my lady. The men are ready and awaiting your command." He said

I looked him and nodded. Katashi was not yet back, and I refused to continue to stand around and do nothing.

"You know the way to Shenyang. Go there and I will meet you there. I am going to meet Lord Katashi and

I will travel with my yoki. Get yourself there safely Yuudai." I said.

"My lady, may I speak?" he asked.

"Hai."

"I honor you and will defend your interests and those of the West with my life." He stated.

I sighed and nodded to him. He turned around and gathered the men and left. I was getting nervous at my mate's absence. I did not even wait to reach the forest; I transformed and went in search of Katashi and Sheng. I put my nose to the ground to catch his scent. I caught it quickly and followed it in a run. I followed along for what seemed like hours and found him. He had just taken down a stag and it appeared that he was going to return to me. I transformed back into my humanoid form and walked to him.

"Sheng, where is Sheng?" I yelled up at him.

He looked down at me with his red eyes widened. There was a little blood on his mouth.

"Katashi, Hideaki is dead. Jing is here and Sheng is missing." I stated.

He transformed as well and looked at me concerned.

"Are you hurt?" he asked.

"No, I will fill you in on the details later but we must find Sheng. I have mobilized the troops and sent them on ahead to Shenyang."

"Where was Sheng headed?" he asked.

"To find you." I said.

He took the news and went to the stag.

"You will eat first. You have not had enough nourishment for the pup." He said.

"Katashi, I really have no wish to eat at this moment. I want to find Sheng and move on to your castle."

"And I really have no wish to lose my mate and pup to starvation!" he thundered.

"Your anger is understandable. Nothing will happen to our pup. I cannot eat anything right now. Jing met me back at the stream and gave me Hideaki's head. I do not want anything to happen to your friend too." I reasoned with him.

He looked physically ill and his face was contorted in rage. He was fighting himself with concern for me and his friend.

"Fine, come then. I am not leaving you alone again." He said extending his hand.

I took it and we traveled back toward the small village. We could find no sign of Sheng. Katashi was angry and ready for violence. I kept him calm till we were out of the village.

"We can use my yoki and get to Shenyang quickly." I stated.

"You have used much of your strength today changing forms several times." He said bleakly.

"Trust me. I know my strength and we will be fine." I said nonplussed.

"Asuna I have abilities too." He said.

"Get us to Shenyang then." I snapped.

"I have to hold you." He said tiredly.

I took his arm and a great wind blew up around us. The sheer power was suffocating; there was a great pressure and roaring wind. My eyes widened when the winds died down and I saw that the scenery had changed. We were standing next to a three story palace. It had the sloping roofs and palm tree ornamentation on the eaves. The doors and railings were red and lattice work was white. The roof tiles were hammered gold. The grounds were immaculate with a small pond in front. Palm trees dotted the landscape along with other indigenous trees. I stood in awe and looked at my mate. He appeared exhausted and forlorn. I saw a young inu female stop in her tracks; she had been carrying trays of food.

"Master Katashi?" she yelled excitedly.

"Jun." he acknowledged.

"Master you have come back to us. I will get your room ready." She said bowing and scurrying toward the palace.

I arched my brow at the small female and then regarded my mate. He was looking more than tired and I held onto his arm.

"What ails you?" I asked quietly.

"That takes a tremendous amount of yoki. Come let us go in." he said.

"Hai. You must sleep. The troops should be here by tomorrow. I will find Sheng." I said vehemently.

We walked over a small bridge on a path that led into the palace. His servants were beside themselves seeing their Lord. He was truly loved and it amazed me. I wanted to preserve this for his future. Inside the palace, he traveled a maze of corridors until he made it to a massive set of doors. There were dragons carved into the wood. Where the handles met were the claws. The doors were stained a rich cherry color. He pushed the doors open with me in tow. We entered a massive chamber. The ceilings were high and vaulted. There were tapestries depicting inu of old in battle scenes. There were lacquered panels on the wall with portraits of different youkai nobles. His furnishings were sparse but lavish. Instead of a futon; there was a cherry wood bed that stood in the middle of the room. I was behind him and proceeded to wrap my arms around his middle. He sighed and I started undoing his haori. I pulled it off and went for the ties of his hakamas.

"Asuna." He said quietly

"Do you have a spring or bath here." I asked gently.

"Yes, through that door." He replied inclining his head to the left.

"Come." I commanded.

I took his hand and we went through the door he indicated. Instead of a hot spring, there was a large tub that was filled with hot water. The tub looked to be made of marble. I went over to the edge and brought him with me. I finished untying his hakamas and they fell to the travertine floor. I ran my hands over his body and I nodded at the tub. I undid my own haori and hakamas and they fell to the floor. Katashi had gotten in and I joined him. The water was very hot and I moaned. The events of the day had been maddening and I was ready to rest myself so that I could face the dangers. Katashi looked almost dead on his feet. I figured out that his teleportation ability was one rarely used. I turned him a little and I started kneading his shoulder muscles. I heard him moan and a rush of heat coursed through me. I quashed the desire and concentrated on massaging his sore muscles. I pressed my chest against his back and moved his hair off his shoulder and placed small kisses around his elfin ear. I took the lobe into my mouth and gently sucked. I felt him stiffen a little and a shudder ran down his back. I ran my tongue along the shell to where it pointed and back down to his lobe. He sighed in pleasure and I ran my hands down his chest. I wanted to make his worry and concern evaporate for a little while.

"Tell me what happened with Jing." He demanded in a whisper.

"I will Katashi but not right now. Your palace is well guarded and barriers in place?" I asked very gently.

He nodded and I could discern he was not used to my gentleness. I continued to knead and run my hands along his chest while his back was pressed against my chest. I bent my head and ran my tongue along the mating mark. I could scent his arousal and it drove me further. I let one hand wander further and grasped his erection and he threw his head back. I stroked him several times and he was hissing his pleasure. He opened his eyes and looked at me; they had started to bleed red. I claimed his mouth and kissed him very slowly and he responded with an almost savage need. I sucked on his lower lip and he growled against my mouth. I continued stroking him while my lips worshiped his. I had to pull away to breathe.

"Asuna, I need you now." He growled low.

I stepped away from him and came around to face him chest to chest. He was seated on a ledge in the tub and I proceeded to straddle his hips He spread my nether lips being sure to graze my clitoris, I sucked in my breath. He placed himself at my entrance and he guided me down. I cried out at the sudden fullness. He kept his eyes on me and I sighed. We sat there like that for a moment and then he thrust in me. I knew my face contorted in intense pleasure and he bent his head forward to capture a nipple into his mouth. He tried to increase the speed of his thrusts but I stopped him.

"No, slowly I want to savor you." I cried.

He nodded but I could tell his resolve was not strong. I lifted myself slowly and tightened myself and impaled myself again. I did again and again; I was moaning quietly and he growled each time. I closed my eyes in bliss and kept him and me at an agonizingly slow pace. My breathing was quickened as was his. I opened my eyes to look upon Katashi's face; he was straining and growling very low. His eyes were fully changed and I knew mine were close.

"I need more, Kamis I cannot keep this up." He cried savagely.

"I want you screaming my name and withering under me." I said repeating his statement from the ookami dens.

He grabbed my hips and thrust my body down with more force. I cried out and met his thrusts. I kept my walls tight and he was growling fiercely. My body was tightening and the coil in my belly was getting tighter but I kept myself controlled; I was concentrating on his ultimate pleasure. I still kept the pace slower than he would have liked and I was watching him lose control. I snaked my arms around his neck; using it as leverage.

"I need to loose myself Asuna. I need to take you harder." He bit out.

"Hai. Take me harder." I breathed out.

He lifted me off of himself and bent me over the side of the tub. Katashi reentered me swiftly and hard. I cried out as he pounded into me. He himself was hissing and growling his pleasure. He thrusts were coming hard and sharp and I moaned out his name. He reached down and sought my curls and found my clitoris and massaged it. I was gasping as I was thrown into a mind shattering orgasm. My walls clutched and fluttered and he lost himself. He thrust three more times and spilled his seed into me. My name spilled from his lips as he bent down and took my juncture and bit into my mark.

"I love you." I cried softly.

He slowly withdrew from me and I turned around and stared at him. He captured my mouth with his and devastated me with its intensity. He pulled away from me and we stared at each other. I had given him my love and I knew that everything was different; it was not just lust.

He picked me up still naked and took me to his bed. I lay on my side and he lay down beside me spooning with me. He was running a hand through my hair and I lazily looked around.

"Tell me about what happened." He whispered.

"Bai Gu Jing is female. She is a skeletal being from the Netherworld. She knew about our alliance and returned Hideaki's head to me." I said almost inaudibly.

"Kami, I am sorry. I should have been there." He said through clenched teeth.

"I went back to the inn and roused the troops and sent them here. I sent Yuudai to retrieve Hideaki so that we could cremate his remains." I said.

"Go on." He prompted.

"I sent Sheng to find you and then I found you." I finished.

He wrapped his leg around mine and held me. The idea that mates loved one another was a fairly uncommon idea. My father had mated for love but I knew that his own sire had done it for political alliances. My grand mother was a cold hearted bitch of epic proportions. My father could not stand to be in the same room as her. He had sent her away long ago. I had figured that I would not mate or at least mate for political reasons.

"I will find Sheng since I am the one that sent him after you." I said.

"We will find my advisor together." He replied.

"She is a fearsome creature Katashi. Her yoki is suffocating."

"There are rumors that she is a fallen Kami." He stated.

"I will need access to your library after we sleep." I said.

"After we eat and sleep." He quietly demanded as he placed his hand on my lower abdomen.

"Hai." I agreed.

"Did you mean it?" he asked of me.

"That I love you?"

"Hai." He said.

"Hai. I still think is against better judgment but by the Kamis; I love you." I told him passionately.

"You have finally given yourself to me." He said equally passionate.

"I have given myself to you?" I queried.

"You have given me the most precious part of you my love, your heart." He replied kissing me.

I lost myself to his lips and sighed happily. I wanted this to last but I refused to raise my hopes until Jing was dead.

I watched in horror as Hideaki was decapitated. Blood spurted from the neck and his body fell; lifeless to the ground. I watched Jing walk over to his corpse and dip her fingers in his blood and lick it off her fingers. She almost reverently lifted his head and chuckled. I could do nothing; I was in the shadows. Jing lifted the head up for closer inspection and laughed again joyfully and started singing a child's nursery rhyme in Chinese. I vaulted up into a sitting position; sweat poured down my brow. I had screamed out Hideaki's name. My chest was heaving trying to get in a lung full of air. Katashi sat up next to me and put his lips to my mark and nuzzled my neck to calm me. I had only had a handful of premonitions in my life. My mother had them all the time. It was unnerving to know that she knew things before hand or about situations. It took so much strength to see what she saw; I doubted I had that strength.

"I saw Hideaki's demise." I whispered.

"How? You were not there." Katashi said gently.

"I was there; just now. I saw it. We have to stop her no matter what. She has no honor." I stated emphatically.

"Are you a seer?" He asked in astonishment.

"Hai."

"We must rise." He said taking my hand.

We were both still naked and I looked at him askance. He raised a brow at me then laughed.

"You have no clothes here." He said stating the obvious.

"We arrived before my trunks. Perhaps your serving wenches have something that will suffice?" I said.

"Hai. You would also look good wearing my clothes." He said smirking.

"Hand me a dressing gown of yours for now." I said.

He went to a wardrobe and opened it and pulled out a very elaborate dressing gown that was black. It was edged in fur and motifs of dragons. He handed it to me and I slipped it on. I stood and swayed on my feet. I was dizzy and felt as I was falling. I shut me eyes and another vision passed before my minds eye. I saw Sheng; he was bound and being tortured. He was deeper in the forest of Zhuanghe. I opened my eyes and they were red. I growled at the vision and looked at Katashi. He stared at me in concern.

"Get me some clothing and armor. I have seen Sheng and he still lives." I said snarling.

"Another vision? Alright, I will be back momentarily." Katashi said leaving me to get a servant.

I was going on instinct but I had a feeling Katashi was right and Jing was a fallen Kami. I wondered if the other Kamis were sending me these premonitions to help stop her. I shuddered at the sheer madness this creature displayed. Defending honor and family was worth killing for but not for sheer pleasure like she did. I enjoyed slaying my enemies that were truly evil. Katashi returned with his hands full. The wench by the name of Jun followed him with a green quju; it was similar to a haori but crisscrossed the chest and tied at the sides. It was edged in black. The sleeves were loose and slightly gathered. He also had a pair of ku; they were short cropped pants that were green. He also had leather and bronze breast plate armor. He carried a pair of black clogs and handed them to me.

"Thank you Jun." he said as the wench laid the clothing down.

"Hai master." She said bowing

"Jun this is Lady Asuna. Her word is law as is mine." He said.

"Hai my Lord." She said reverently.

I nodded my head to her and she bowed and left. As soon as she left and the doors shut; I dropped the dressing gown and started dressing. I braided my silver hair to keep it out of the way. Katashi was attending to his own clothing as I finished. I went to the bathing room and retrieved my katana and slipped it into the sash that was slung around my hips. I reentered the room and slipped the armor over my clothing and tied it in place. Katashi had dressed similarly and was tying his own armor in place. His clothing was black as was his armor. I came up behind him and tied his hair back at the nape of his neck. He slipped his katana into his sash and turned and faced me.

"Is your katana a magic blade?" I asked curiously.

"Hai. I can channel my yoki through it." He said surprised at my question.

"Mine is forged from my father's fang but I have yet to reach its full potential." I stated.

"You are young still." He replied smiling.

"Hai but I still would like to be able to channel my own yoki as well." I said heading for the door.

"Did you see where Sheng is?" He asked following me.

"Hai. He is still in the forest surrounding Zhuanghe." I said.

"Alright." He replied.

"I will transport us there; it takes less of my yoki." I said firmly.

"Hai." He said reaching for my hand.

I transformed him and me into my energy sphere and we traversed the distance in just a matter of minutes. I transformed us back into our humanoid forms and Katashi looked amazed.

"You continue to surprise me my love." He said.

"My father made me channel certain abilities. I remember being in his dojo with him training as a very young pup. He has been molding and shaping me my entire life." I said with pride.

"Did he ever just sit and play with you?" he asked.

"Why would he do that? I had Osamu and my ningen sister Rin for that." I laughed.

"You had a ningen sister?" he asked surprised.

"Hai. Father married her to a noble within the West. She is happily settled in her house with pups of her own." I said.

"I am surprised that a taiyouki of your father's renown would raise a ningen child." He stated quietly as we walked.

"Rin is special. Father brought her back from the Netherworld with Tensaiga. It is a very long story that revolves around Naraku and the Shikon no Tama." I said quietly.

"I have heard some of the stories. I have also heard stories of your hanyou uncle." He replied with a smile.

"You will meet Uncle Yasha. He is a force of nature. Father and he still fight rather openly. Their father mated a ningen and produced Inuyasha. Father's mother is by far colder and more calculating than I have ever been. Father banished her before I was birthed." I said.

"I will have to hear these stories. You history is fascinating." He replied with interest.

"I will have to hear yours as well. Your house was obviously open with your emotions." I said distantly.

I was recognizing the area that we were entering and I put a clawed digit to my lips to silence us. He nodded his understanding and put his hand to his blade. I released my Dakkasou and listened and scented very carefully. We stayed hush and continued to lift our noses and search the wind for Sheng's scent. We caught it at the same time as the wind changed direction from the south. I could scent a large amount of blood and prayed to the Kamis that we were not too late. I broke out into a run that was faster than a ningen could see and found Sheng; Katashi was right beside me. Sheng had been bound to a large conifer tree. He had been shackled with manacles that were oozing dark magic's. His belly had been torn open and intestines could be seen. He had been ripped open in so many places that I could not believe he still lived. His throat had been cut but he breathed; though barely. Jing had left him for dead and he very nearly had. Anger welled up in white and hot. Fury burned in my eyes as well as Katashi's. The bitch was making her move and we were scrambling. Katashi raised his katana and I got a preview of its power. The sword pulsed with a blue light and he smashed through the shackles. Before Sheng could fall to the ground; I caught him. I cradled his head on my knees and looked up at Katashi. Sheng's eyes rolled back in his head and he was passed out.

"I will transport him and me back to your palace at Shenyang." I said.

"I will be right behind you." He said rather calmly.

I could tell Katashi was starting to get into a blood lust and I looked deeply into his eyes. He nodded to me and I transformed Sheng and I and brought us back to Shenyang. I had set down within the palace walls and Katashi appeared just a moment later. He and I were both going to be exhausted before this day was out. I was using more of my yoki than I ever had to and I was carrying a pup. Katashi called for his healer and men came and brought Sheng into apartments next to Katashi's. I sent a runner to see how far Yuudai and my warriors were from the palace. My mate went with Sheng to find out the exact extent to his injuries and I went in search of sustenance.

I wandered around the palace for about an hour memorizing the routes and different rooms. There was a Great Hall on the main floor with a garden next to it. I entered and saw two inu bitches dressed in formal attire sitting at the table. Both of them had black hair and I assumed there was a familial connection with Katashi. They both looked at me with curiosity. They had eyes similar in color to my mate and no markings. I stared at them with a frank stare and one stood. It struck me that they were dressed as proper bitches were supposed to be and I was dressed as a warrior.

"Who are you?" the standing one asked.

"I am the Lady Asuna of the West. I am from the islands. Who are you?" I asked raising a silver brow with contempt.

"I am Xiu Jaun and this is my sister Annchi." She answered coldly.

She looked at me coolly and her eyes looked me up and down. She looked disdainfully at me and sat down.

"Arrogant bitch." I muttered.

"I know you not. My sister and I are cousins to Lord Katashi." She said.

"I see. Could you see to it that some venison is brought for the Lord?" I commanded.

"Who are you to command me, you Japanese sow." Xiu Jaun exploded.

"I am your Lady now. Lord Katashi is my mate." I said slowly.

They both looked at me in shock and the other sister stood and bowed to me.

"My humblest apologies my Lady. We will see to it immediately." Annchi said.

"See that you do." I said with as much disdain as I could. I pinned Xiu Jaun with a hateful stare.

"Never speak to me with such disrespect again wench. I am a Lady in my own right and you will respect that." I growled.

"Hai." She said looking down.

The runner that I had sent came into the Great Hall and bowed before me.

"My Lady, your army has arrived. There was a small skirmish outside of the city with Ming troops." He said.

"Causalities?" I asked.

"Hai. Only one of your men and the Ming were driven back. There were more than two hundred ningen dead." He answered.

"I see. Thank you. Go to General Yuudai and have him come to me. I will be in the Lord's chambers." I commanded.

"Hai my Lady!" the runner said.

The young inu runner left and did as I bade him. I was taking in that this area was heavily populated by inu. I had not seen a different species except outside of the palace. Xiu Jaun and Annchi were staring openly at me. I was sure they were not used to seeing a female with so much authority over an army.

"Have the venison brought to Katashi's chambers." I commanded of the sisters and I left.

I was glad that Yuudai had made it and with so few losses. Now that we were here, the enemy was on the move and preparing to invade if they had not already done so. I made my way to Katashi's doors but then went to the chambers that Sheng was being healed in. I knocked quietly on the doors and I heard my mate's voice say come. I pushed open the doors and walked in. I looked at Sheng upon a massive bed and his whole abdomen was wrapped in bandages. His throat had been stitched and the healer was putting a pungent salve on the awful wound.

"Has he been able to speak?" I asked.

Katashi shook his head no and I touched his hand. He looked at me gratefully. I leaned over to Sheng and whispered to him.

"I will avenge you. I will see to it that bitch dies by my hand."

Sheng's eyes fluttered open for a moment and he looked at me. I noticed his eyes were light blue in color and quite striking. His hair was dark brown and his eyes were almond shaped. He could not speak and I decided to path to him.

-I am truly sorry for putting you in this danger. - I thought to him.

His eyed widened at me and I nodded to him.

-Rest my friend. The army has arrived and we are beginning our offensive.-

His eyes shut again and his breathing was evening out. I looked at Katashi and he looked at me with curiosity.

"I took the liberty of ordering venison to your chambers. The army has arrived and Yuudai will be meeting with us to mobilize the rest of your army." I said.

"You have taken up the mantle of the Lady with amazing talent." He said in admiration.

I decided to shock my mate and I bowed from the waist. I looked up at him with mischief in my eyes. He brought out a side of me that was playful; even in the direst circumstances.

"I am retiring to our chambers. I am going to sit and eat. I shall see you soon." I backed away and left the room.

I walked next door and opened the dragon doors. I undid the ties of the armor and slipped it off. I noticed that my trunks had arrived and looked forward to wearing my own armor. I let me hair down and slipped off my clogs. I went to the desk against the far wall and waited on my meal and my general. I did not have to wait long as there came a knock and the inu girl Jun came in with a tray laden with venison and a pitcher of sweet wine.

"Thank you Jun." I acknowledged her.

"Hai my Lady." She bowed to me and left.

I attacked the venison with gusto as I was famished. I was still eating the succulent meat when another knock came.

"Hai!" I called out; my mouth full of food.

Yuudai came in and bowed to me. When he looked up; he gave me a brilliant smile. I grinned back as though we were pups again.

"I am not being dignified I know but I have not eaten well in several days." I exclaimed.

"Far be it for me to tell you what is dignified my Lady. I can scent that you are pupped." He said.

"Hai. I have been masking it but apparently it was not enough." I said looking away.

"Lord Katashi is your mate?" he asked quietly.

"Hai." I responded.

"I am happy for you my Lady." He said.

"We have always been friends Yuudai; I see no reason for that to change."

"Hai but I will have to keep my distance or your mate will kill me." He said bluntly.

"Hai, what news of your battle with the filthy Chinese ningen?" I asked.

"They attacked us about twenty kilometers outside of the city. They were well organized but there were no youkai amongst them. We decimated them." He reported.

"Good. I am well pleased." I stated.

"I will be meeting with Lord Katashi's general this evening." He said.

"Very good. Sheng was found and is recovering." I stated.

"Very good news my Lady. I am sure his Lordship is happy."

"Hai he is." I responded.

I looked down and I had finished the venison on the tray. I looked up Yuudai and laughed.

"Could you ask Jun to bring more for Katashi?" I said with a smile.

Hai my Lady." He said bowing.

He exited and I sat back against the chair I was sitting in. My feelings for Sheng had changed and I respected him. His unwavering loyalty to my mate made it so. I felt hatred brewing in me that would not be denied. I stood and felt much better after having eaten. I decided to find Katashi's dojo. I grabbed my weapon and exited the chambers. The moon was rising in the night sky and I felt dread as the war was starting to spill onto the steps of the palace.

Sheng lay in his bed in terrible pain and utter frustration. He looked upon his friend and Lord and tried to speak.

"Sheng do not speak yet." Katashi admonished him.

"Katashi my Lord." He whispered hoarsely.

"Sheng." Katashi said with regret.

"Lady Asuna is a telepath." He said barely audible.

"I am still discovering all of her abilities." He said with a grin.

"Water, please?" Sheng said breathing heavily.

"My friend you must stop talking. Your throat was cut. It will take you time to recover from this." Katashi said with a scowl.

He went to a pitcher and poured water in a goblet and brought it to his friend's lips. Sheng drank and then leaned back against the silk pillows. Sheng looked around and was relieved to see his own quarters at the summer palace. He looked at his childhood friend and felt relief. He had been terrified that the witch had gotten to him. When he had seen Asuna and no Katashi, he became careless. He Gang needed its Lord. He wanted to speak with Asuna again. Her way of communicating was much easier on him at that moment.

Lady Asuna, can I see her?" He whispered.

"Hai my friend. It would be much easier speaking through her." Katashi said.

Sheng nodded and closed his eyes. It took a lot of effort to stay awake and talk at all.

-Sheng- I thought to him gently.

He was rousing slowly and I pressed a goblet of a pain relieving teas to his lips. His eyes opened slowly and they looked clouded with fever.

"Drink." I commanded quietly.

He took slow draughts of the strong smelling liquid and he made a face.

"It does not taste very well but the healer told me that it would take the pain and fever away. Katashi needs you back in health." I said.

He was still making faces and I then put water to lips. He drank it without protest and leaned back and put up his hand signaling enough.

"You are a noble. You also act like a petulant pup." I said looking at his profile.

He turned his amazing blue eyes on me and scowled. I scowled back at him and he growled low in his throat.

"Is that supposed to be intimidating to me?" I asked with amusement.

He sighed angrily and I put a cloth to his head.

"I am not pathing because I do not particularly want you to strain too much."

He again scowled at me and I actually laughed.

"I ask your forgiveness for almost getting you killed. I also ask your forgiveness in the way I treated you while we were still in Japan. My honor demands that I rectify the wrongs I have done you." I said searching his face.

He scowled yet again and I relented; I opened my mind to him. I hated pathing because it was terribly intimate and I always stood the chance of passing on memories and feelings.

-What is it you are demanding to say? - I thought.

-I want to kill her myself. - He thought vehemently

-Get in line. - I laughed in his mind.

He looked thoughtfully at me and shook his head no. I got the impression of youth from him and I wanted to know more about my mate's closest confidant.

-How many summers are you?-

-I am two hundred sixty seven. - He thought.

-How long have you known Katashi?-

-All my life. His father adopted me when I was just a pup. My parents had been killed.-he thought to me.

He gave me a weak smile and I returned it. I saw why Katashi and he were so close. They both had the same open air about them.

-You wished me to relay a message to him?-

-To you both really. It really is probably a minor weakness but she feeds on fear.-He thought rapidly.

"Slow your thoughts. Your mind is racing." I commanded.

-I am sorry but your abilities it seems would be key in stopping her.-he pathed quickly.

"You give me far too much credit." I said with my voice.

He sighed in frustration and narrowed his eyes at me.

"Like I said a petulant pup." I smirked at him.

He glared daggers at me and I sat back amused.

"You are enjoying my weakness." He whispered hoarsely.

"Do not speak." I commanded.

I put the goblet with water back to his lips and he swallowed obediently. He again tried to speak and I put a clawed finger to his lips.

-We need you Sheng. We need you well in order to defeat Jing. Your brother needs you. - I thought to him.

-Then do not cut me off Lady Asuna. - He pathed strongly.

I put my hands to my temples and looked at him.

"Please do not scream in my head. This is why I do not like this ability and rarely use it. My mother used to scream while pathing and I would keep a headache." I growled.

He crossed his arms across his chest and glared at me. I stood and inclined my head.

"Sleep." I commanded.

He continued to glare at me and I slipped out through his door.

Katashi was away in the inner court organizing and choreographing the two armies into one. He and I agreed that we wanted to be mobilized within the week. I had put in my instructions and left to speak with Sheng as my mate had asked of me. I had to leave Sheng; I could not handle having that close of a connection. I was privy to his innermost thoughts and desires. My current responsibilities made me want to run away to the forest. I had too much to do and there were too many unknowns for my liking. I stood fixing to go into the chambers I shared with Katashi then changed my mind. I went back into Sheng's room. I went and sat by his bed and kept a cool cloth to his forehead. He was strong to survive the injuries he had sustained. There was great danger of infection especially with the injury to his gut. Youkai and ningen alike succumbed to bowel injuries. Sheng was a survivor.

"He will overcome this illness." The healer said behind me.

"Katashi will be glad of it." I said.

"Like two sides of the same coin those two." The old inu healer said.

"Tell me about them." I said.

"Ah well Sheng's father was a brave inu. He was brash and lucky with the females." She said chuckling.

"And go on." I said interested.

"Well Katashi was still young; when Sheng came to stay with the old Lord. Sheng's father went and got himself killed; Sheng's mother too. Well the old Lord adopted him and Katashi had a brother." She said.

"What about Katashi's mother?" I inquired.

"Amah well she died having the young Lord. She was always a fragile thing. Broke Lord Tekeshi's heart it did." She said sitting by me.

"That is unfortunate." I said.

"Hai it is. I will leave him to your care my Lady." The healer said bowing.

"Many thanks for saving Sheng healer." I said.

"Thank yourself my Lady. He will need another dose of the pain relieving tea soon." She said leaving.

I watched her leave and in turn watched Sheng sleep. I understood Katashi's feelings for his dear friend much better now. I would have to wake him soon to give him the foul smelling brew. I wondered what his great need to speak was about. I gently shook his sleeping form and he did not rouse. I did not wish to reopen his wounds so I dipped into his mind. My eyes widened in shock at what I was feeling. He was dreaming of the torture and it pained me to see it. The look of bliss on Jing's face as she injured an innocent made me hate her even more. I doubted that even Naraku had been this evil.

-Sheng, wake up.-

-No! - came his thought

-I know you hear me, now wake up! - I commanded through the telepathy.

One eye opened and he groaned in pain. Slowly he was roused and I pressed the goblet to his lips.

-Drink!-I commanded in thought.

-You drink that shit!-he growled in my head.

"You are predisposed to telepathy as well." I accused him aloud.

"Hn." Was he hoarse response.

"Do not speak. You are an overgrown puppy. Are you always this cross?" I scolded him.

He shook his head no and I laughed.

"Drink now or I will force it down your throat. I will not be accused of killing you." I threatened.

I pressed it to his lips and tilted the goblet up and he drank it. He was growling and groaning intermittently.

"Why are you fighting the medicine that will help heal you faster; and why are you being disagreeable with me now." I said as I pressed the water goblet to his mouth again.

-I have been disagreeable with you since I met you and I told you that crap tastes awful. - He pathed to me.

"You are very reserved in mixed company. You act like a spoilt child the rest of the time?" I asked staring at him.

-Why do you care what I act like? - He snarled in my head.

"Because I have the misfortune of being a sister-in-law of sorts to you. If you matter to Katashi you matter to me." I said glaring at him.

He turned his head away from me and frowned. I gently turned his head to look at me once more.

"When did you discover you had the power of telepathy? It is not a common gift amongst inu." I asked him.

-All my life.-he thought.

"You are too handsome to be frowning so. Tell me what exactly happened." I said in a serious tone.

-You mean besides being tortured? Well we had a picnic too.-He snapped in thought.

"Earlier you told me you thought my power was the key to destroying her." I replied changing the subject.

-Yes. You are obviously the stronger telepath and I have seen you use psycho-kinesis. - He thought.

"Minor abilities compared to others. What does that have to do with what she feeds on?"

-Turn her hunger against her.-

I looked at him thoughtfully and I saw why Katashi had him as an advisor. He was immensely intelligent and obviously very loyal.

"We shall discuss this as a battle strategy later on. It has merit. I must confess that I have seen much already in your mind. You do not shield well. I must teach you this for if you do not you are an open book." I said to him.

-Seen what exactly? - He asked in thought and narrowing his eyes.

"I am not discussing your personal memories and thoughts. Learn to shield so I am not so bombarded." I said in exhaustion all of sudden.

He actually looked sheepish and I put up my mind to stop his train of thought.

"I am very appalled at what happened to you at that monster's hands. I have seen it and the evidence thereof. There is no use in continuing to relive it. You have to mentally see a block to create one in your mind." I commanded.

-You are kind to spare my feelings on the matter. - He stated without words.

"It is because of me that you are hurt. I will not allow it to happen again." I said very quietly.

"I can instruct you in this matter so that you can better protect yourself. Right now you are an open book." I continued.

He looked at me and I stared right back at him.

"Try to read me." I commanded.

He shook his head no and I nodded yes.

"I know that you are still weak from your injuries but you need to do this Sheng." I said.

I was putting myself at risk by allowing him to access my mind at all. I already had a headache of massive proportions but if he was right about Jing then I needed to train him and quickly. I really did not want to be so familiar with him but there was no choice. I allowed my shields down marginally and I felt warmth and sensual prodding of my barrier. I allowed him in briefly. I gasped at his presence. He was powerful and his yoki spread like a wildfire. A shudder went down my spine and his power enveloped me. My extremities were tingling and I fought against him. I slammed my barriers up and stared him. He stared at me with his eyes wide. This had been too personal and I got up quickly.

"Stop." He whispered hoarsely.

"No! Do not speak. I am too tired for this now." I stammered.

His eyes were expressive and demanding I stay.

-Stay.-he demanded in my head.

"Sheng stop. I am in need of rest." I said straightening my back.

-You cannot handle it. You run when faced with emotion. - He thought to me narrowing his eyes.

"You are too unpredictable right now. I have a right to my privacy the same as you and your untrained power is too invasive." I said coldly.

"Liar." He whispered harshly.

"I cannot do this." I snapped at him.

-You will not do it. You are being a coward.-he accused.

My eyes flashed red and I glared at him. He was challenging me and I despised it. I hated being vulnerable and he knew that obviously. I nodded at him and sat further away from him. He stared at me expectantly and I dropped my shield. The warmth and power spread over me and I suppressed the shudder. The feeling of his yoki inside of me was almost palatable; I fought the feeling of euphoria. I dipped into his mind and I could see through his eyes. I knew he was feeling the same as I.

-Force me out. - I demanded.

He shook his head and it felt like I was being stroked in the most sensual of ways. I forced him back and he fought. He intended to educate himself thoroughly to stop Jing. He had felt weak and powerless at her hands. In his need to avenge himself, he was plundering me in a way.

"No." I moaned audibly.

-Just a little while longer.-he demanded of me.

I shook physically. He was forcing a bonding of sorts and I did not want it. He was pressing me shields to my deepest memories and I started to fight him almost like a wild animal. His power was stifling and I wondered of his heritage. He may be untrained in this talent but he was learning quickly. He pressed harder and I could not fight him. My head pounded and he knew me. It was like he was touching my every thought, want, and desire. I screamed in my mind and he retreated. He had completely possessed me and I pushed him back. I was angry and I decided to return the intrusion. He attempted to block me and I smirked as I as deepened the connection. It was his turn to gasp and moan. I had to fight my utter disgust when I felt his memories of recent torture. I felt the claws tear into my gut and a blade slice my throat.

"No." I cried out in pain.

Again he attempted to push me out and I pressed harder. The feeling of rapture was overcoming us both.

-Enough.-he cried out in thought.

I pulled back from his memories and we both physically spasm from the connection.

-Force me out. Visualize a barrier and keep me from speaking. - I whispered gently in his mind.

He did as I bade him and I was unable to access his thoughts anymore. I looked at him in the eyes and he looked away.

"You forced this Sheng. You are the one that made this happen." I said shaking with anger.

He shook his head and continued to look away from me.

"Damn you. You will not act as though this did not happen." I seethed.

His behavior was all too clear to me. I had learned more on Sheng than I had wanted. He was honorable but morose at times. He was used to getting his way and of course Katashi listened to everything he said. I turned his head towards mine and forced him to acknowledge me.

"You demanded this bond. You forced your way in. You made us feel this thing." I snarled.

I knew he was feeling the same violent turbulence of emotions as I was. I had demanded he not speak and he was not. I looked away and worked on repressing my emotions. The presence of his yoki mingling with mine had about sent me over the edge. He was strong and demanding; his desire for revenge had overcome his good sense. I would need him in destroying Jing as well as needing Katashi. I understood Sheng's behavior for it had been similar to mine when I had met Katashi; reckless and obsessive.

"There will be an end to her Sheng, I have promised you that. You will not have suffered in vain." I said quietly.

He lowered the shield that I had just taught him to use and I felt his thoughts brush mine.

"Do not do that." I whispered strained.

We did not physically touch but I was aware of every breath and movement. His desire to defend his friend and brother, revenge, and now me; I was awash in it. I shut my eyes and realized that he enjoyed this intimacy; no betrayal and in his mind no consequences. I had underestimated this inu and I would never do so again, he would not let me.
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