InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Lessons in History and the Past ( Chapter 7 )

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

Disclaimer: I do not own the anime or manga Inuyasha. The characters of Inuyasha are not mine; they are property of Rumiko Takahashi, Shogakukan, Yomiuri TV, Sunrise, and Viz. I make no monies from the writing of this fan fiction. All original characters are mine.


“…” talking
-…- pathing


Lessons in History and the Past



The scent of tears was heavy in the room. I dragged myself from the bed and went by the window. We had been at the Summer Palace for over a week. The palace servants were perplexed by my melancholy. My mother was actively searching for the mole but she kept a low profile. She was so generous and sweet, the servants and retainers opened up to her. I would every so often force the brew that enabled me to keep down food. My mother would brush against my mind just to strengthen me. I could see the worry on Jun's face every time she would inquire after me. She reminded me of Mayu and I would muster a weak smile. The pain in my chest was ever present and it weighed heavily. I kept a vigil by the window and searched the horizon for my errant mate. My mother breezed into the room and picked up brush and started to run it through my hair. She would do this when I was upset as a pup and it still calmed me.

“I do not know why you have not sent that bitch Xiu Jaun packing.” She commented as she plaited my hair.

“I despise her sister Annchi more.” I said hollowly.

“Why is that? She is sweet.” My mother asked in surprise.

“She desires Sheng as her mate. She has given herself to him numerous times.” I said.

“I see. Well despise her then but remember he chose you.” She said calmly.

“No, he left me.” I said angry.

“Hush now. Your pups will be able to soon feel your emotions.” She stated soothingly.

I looked up from my self pity.

“Have you masked our presence heavily?” I asked raising my brow.

“Oh hai. No one would know we were here.” She said laughing.

“He comes.” I said standing.

I went to the window again and saw him on the outskirts of the grounds. I also saw Annchi heading towards him. He was reading correspondence, he enjoyed reading immensely and he was deep into the letter.

“I swear I will kill the bitch!” I seethed.

“Go to him but keep your aura masked.” She commanded.

I stealthily moved through the palace and made my way to the garden where he would have to pass. Annchi was there already and she had a smile on her pretty face. I could not help the change in my eyes. She was unknowingly challenging me and my beast wanted to rip her limb from limb.

“Sheng.” She whispered.

He looked up from his reading and I had to stop from crying out. He looked tired and worn; and yet still beautiful. His hair framed his face and he wore a light brown pein fu. He stared at
Annchi and smiled a little.

“Hello Annchi. Have you fared well?” he asked.

She came to him and wrapped her arms around his waist. Anger consumed me and he did not stop her affections. I had to keep from spilling my own blood at the moment. My beast was clawing at me. Annchi reached up to draw him into a kiss and I did see him stiffen but he did not stop her.

“Bastard.” I snarled in a whisper.

He looked up but he could not sense me. I had hidden myself well and my aura masked. Annchi kissed him deeper and I could not stop my hatred. I left my place from behind a garden sculpture and walked away from them both.

“You did not say that Lady Asuna was here!” he whispered harshly to her.

“So?” she answered.

“Annchi I cannot do this now.” He said pulling away from her.

“What? I have not seen you in months!” she cried.

“Enough!” he said.

I felt him coming after to me but I kept walking. If he had even tried to open our bond I would not have felt it. He grabbed my arm and I jerked away from him violently.

“Do not touch me.” I hissed.

“What are you doing here?” he asked me in a harsh whisper.

“You are killing me. Then I suppose that is your plan after all. I said do not touch me.” I yelled.

“Hush now. This is not the proper place for such a private conversation.” He said in a nasty tone.

“You let her touch you. I hate you.” I snarled at him.

He grabbed me and I allowed him to drag me to his rooms. He pushed me in roughly and slammed the door behind him.

“Why are you here?” he asked in a pained voice.

“Now I have no idea. How many bitches did you bed on your way here?” I asked in a raw voice.

“Asuna!” he snarled at me.

“You cut yourself off from me. I have felt as though I am dying. It hurts, can you not feel it?” I asked almost in tears.

“Hai I feel it.” He answered.

“I wish I had let you die. I hate you.” I screamed at him.

“So you keep saying.” He said sarcastically.

“You let her touch you.” I cried.

“You are making no sense.” He growled.

“Who betrayed who? You did not answer the question about bedding any bitches.” I said calmer.

He turned his head away from me and my stomach clenched painfully. I pushed past him and went to my rooms next to his. I burst into the room and grabbed my fang and slipped it into my obi. I held back the overwhelming anguish that was assaulting me. My mother could feel the turbulence in my feelings and she came over to me. I held up a clawed hand to keep her at bay. I moved to a basin and threw up.

“We leave. There is nothing for us here.” I whispered wiping my mouth.

“Daughter. Force him to talk.” She said.

“No. I am done. He betrayed me on the basest level. I will live even if I continue to whither inside. That creature will not destroy me.” I said my chest heaving.

“Asuna, I am sending him in here. Try one more time for me?” she said calmly.

I nodded to her and she went to Sheng's chambers. I waited and a moment later he came in and would not look at me. I was shaking with repressed rage. My mother shut the doors and placed a barrier around the rooms.

“How was this supposed to happen, hmm?” He asked painfully.

“I wanted to explain to you what happened. You came in determined to fight with me.” I said.

“I told you that I wished to be away from you. You could not honor that?” he asked.

“So you bed as many bitches as possible?” I asked in a raw voice.

“What I do on my time is my business. You kept yourself from me.” He snapped.

“You said that before on the way to He Gang.” I said in a bitter laugh.

“Ah yes He Gang. Well your inactions have proved that anything that has happened is meaningless.” He said just as bitter.

“You are a whiney pup. You think this has been easy on either of us?” I said in a nasty laugh.

“I think you get what you want from it.” He answered.

I moved closer to him and slapped him. He snarled at me.

“The only THING I get out of this situation is my heart ripped from me and you making me cry. I do not cry and I have shed more for you than I did as a newborn pup!” I nearly shrieked at  him.

“Calm yourself.” He commanded me.

“No. I want to know who you bedded.” I demanded of him.

He scoffed at me and went to the other side of the room. I was so angry that I would have gleefully killed Annchi right then.

“Asuna, I made a terrible mistake. I should never have forced this bond. I was selfish, I can admit that. There has been much damage done but I am trying to give us some sort of out.” He admitted.

“We are mated in the most sacred of ways. We have been bonded in this life and the next.” I said hollowly.

“You lie.” He hissed.

“Why would I lie? You said you feel the pain. Our souls are bonded and when you cut me off…” I started to say.

“I will not live as second to no one. I have tried to make this situation work and it will not.” He sighed.

“You have not tried. You go and fuck whores. You are mated to me!” I snarled.

“Leave it alone Asuna.” He said dangerously.

“I am bearing your pup. You are mine.” I said in a low tone.

“Why could you not tell me that in the first place? Why did you keep that from me?” he asked.

“I never had any intentions of keeping you from this.” I replied in pain.

“Do you not see that you did? You were masking the scent and shielding from ME!” he snapped.

“I needed privacy.” I whispered.

“From me. I see.” He said with sarcasm.

“For Kamis sake Sheng! There are other thoughts on my mind.” I said in exasperation.

“I am trying to tell you that I keep nothing from you. I have bared myself completely and you will not do the same.” He replied in anger.

“We completed the bond to be able to shield you moron.” I snapped at him.

“Not when we created life. You know how I feel on that subject.” He said tonelessly.

“So you cut yourself off from me? You had no thought what it would do to our pup?” I said again in a raw voice.

“I did not know.” He said in a tired voice.

“You were loved by Lord Tekeshi, why would you feel abandoned?” I voiced his old memory.

“I am not discussing this. You have made it clear where I stand in your life Asuna. I am done with this.” He said looking forlorn.

“Fine if you will not discuss the problem then discuss your behavior after you left me.” I said snappishly.

“You are obsessed again. I am not discussing anything more.” He stated defiantly.

He was right that I was obsessed and I wanted him to hurt as much as I was. He did not expect me to come at him and I slashed his face with my claws. He grabbed my hand and went to shove me backward and I took him with me. I landed flat on my back with him on top of me. My tongue darted out and tasted his blood. I saw enough of his memories and I tried to kick him off of me. He lowered his lips to my ear.

“Did you see what you wanted?” he whispered harshly.

“Get off of me, you are being cruel.” I cried.

“No you want us together and here we are.” He said viscously.

“Do not do this.” I whispered as I could see his intentions.

“You are so used to telling everyone what to do. You cannot handle when you are confronted.” He condescended to me.

“Sheng stop.” I demanded.

“No. You want me to open myself again so I am.” He said as he untied my hakama.

“Not like this.” I whispered hoarsely.

“Ah but you see, this is my terms.” He said in such a harsh tone.

He lowered his head and licked his mating mark on me. I could not breathe evenly and my body was betraying me.

“Stop being cruel please.” I begged.

“I am going to make you open up completely to me. I will take what I need from you.” He whispered.

He had undone his own ku and he slid into me. I cried out. I was furious with him at the same time as wanting him. He bit down hard into the mating mark and he invaded my senses. He was inside of me in every sense. I tried to push him out mentally and he pressed on. I was gasping as he forced our bond open. I cried out as his yoki melded with mine. He was rolling his hips against mine and I arched my back to meet his thrusts. He had my hands clasped in his and he lowered his mouth to mine. He growled low in his throat and I just panted. He was dominating me and punishing me for his pain. He was my equal in arrogance and pride. I had met my match when it came to will. He looked down at me and I saw raw emotion. My breath hitched and he kissed me desperately. Sheng's eyes were his normal icy blue and mine had stayed the gold-brown they were. I thrust my hips against his with force and I forced a groan out of him. He sat up without breaking the connection and I was straddling him. He bit into my mark again and I shook against him.

“You are mine.” He growled loudly.

“Sheng.” I cried as he thrust into me hard.

He was holding me to him and murmuring against my skin. My claws dug into his back and I was trying to hold on. I had to throw my head back and moan. He was nipping and biting my skin gently. My body was tightening in bliss and he pressed me again with his yoki and I fell into an orgasm. He continued to thrust into me and I was trembling violently. Sheng moved my chin so that my eyes were locked with his.

“You feel me?” he asked roughly.

“Hai.” I responded barely comprehending.

“I am yours.” He ground out.

“Hai, hai.” I cried repeatedly

“Asuna look at me.” He demanded.

I had shut my eyes and I opened them again. I stared him in the eyes again and I felt him stiffen as he spilled himself. Sheng's face contorted in intense pleasure and I was mesmerized. He surged his yoki again and I trembled around him again. He kept my face focused on him and I groaned loudly and mumbled incoherently. I collapsed against him and he held me close.

-Now you know I have touched no other. - He said within my mind.

I felt as though I could breathe again. The physical pain was gone and I was furious with him but he already knew it. He truly wanted to be joined like this and be as one. He hated when he could not feel my spirit. The complete mating had brought us as close as two individuals could be.

-You were rather brutal.-I whispered in his head.

-No more brutal than you have been with me. - He thought.

I slipped off his lap and he placed a hand on my stomach. He pressed his lips to my abdomen and a thrill went down my spine. He muttered mine against my skin.

“Why did you let me think you had rutted with another bitch?” I asked as I put on a silk yukata.

“To hurt you.” He said lazily.

“Kami you are a brat.” I said severely.

“Hai, I know. I grew up in this opulent court, remember?” he said lying on the bed.

“I am still furious with you.” I snapped.

“Hai I know.” He said closing his eyes.

“You rut with me and you sleep?” I asked him incredulously.

“Sleep with me.” He replied barely lifted his head.

“How are you so calm?” I asked in disbelief.

“You already know that answer. I would also like the miniature of my mother back.” He said lightly.

“I hate you!” I sneered.

“No you do not. I made you angry. You hate it when you are dominated.” He stated.

“You still see nothing wrong with leaving me?” I asked quietly.

“Lye with me.” He demanded.

I sighed and went over to the bed and lied down next to him. He pulled the yukata up until my thigh was bared. He was lightly running his claws along the smooth flesh.

“I want my pup more than I can say. I want you more than I can say. When you shielded from me, I knew you were hiding the truth. I would lay my life down in this lifetime or any other and I knew you were holding back. I have given myself completely to you and I needed the same from you.” He explained.

I stared at him and I looked away.

“I am split do you not see that?” I said bitterly.

“You and I share something that no one else can. I am a selfish creature. I will not be denied the one thing that ties me to you so completely.” He stated gripping my thigh.

Warmth spread through me as he combined our yoki again. I stiffened against him and he kissed my neck.

-Kami!-I cried in his head.

He ran his hand up my thigh to my stomach. He spread his fingers over my stomach and I felt his yoki wash over me again.

“You are trying to bond with the pup.” I stated surprise.

“Hai.” He whispered.

“Your mother was beautiful.” I stated.

“Hai.” He answered.

“You were young when she was killed.” I said.

“Hai.” He whispered again.

“What about this fascinates you so?” I asked curiously.

“I am going to be able to watch you grow heavy with my pup.” He said in awe.

“I have to return to Japan.” I said looking over my shoulder at him.

“No. I am not going to let you put yourself in danger. Katashi is fool for even considering it.” He growled.

“You are telling me what I will do?” I said in anger.

“Hai I am. I will be writing to Katashi this very day and informing him that you will be retreating
to the Winter Palace and I will protect his interests.” He said arrogantly.

“And what makes you think I am going to do this?” I asked in a fury.

“Because you love me.” He stated bluntly.

“Hai I love you but I am not giving up my freedom.” I said sitting up.

“I will not be thwarted in this. You carry my future as well as this land's in your belly.” He said logically.

“Damn you.” I growled.

“See I can win you over with my charm.” He said pressing me back down.

“You are manipulating me.” I said irritated.

“Hai I am. You are good at it yourself.” He whispered against my ear.

“You intend to rut with me again.” I stated warming up to him.

“Hai. I have missed you terribly. I will never be cut off from you again.” He licked my ear.

“Sheng.” I whispered.
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Sheng was snoring heavily and I slipped away to find something to eat. I abhorred he could manipulate and read me so well. He was demanding and arrogant. He was also kind, loyal, and loving. He was almost my same personality in the male form and that was why we clashed so violently. Our passions ran high and so did our rages. I was wearing a yukata with a dark green dressing gown. I was padding lightly to the kitchens and I overheard my favorite inu sisters. I masked my aura and scent and listened.

“Annchi I have sent your letters. Did you really see that whore here?” Xiu Jaun said.

“Hai I did. Sheng could not get to her fast enough. I hate her. I hope Jing destroys her.” Annchi seethed with hatred.

“She will. I have no doubt.” Xiu laughed.

“Sheng has not touched me since that Japanese slut came here. I know he wants me and I know I will be his mate. What can be stopping him?” Annchi cried.

I closed my eyes and dipped into Sheng's mind.

-Wake up. - I cried urgently.

-Koi, I will soon! - He pathed back in irritation.

-Fool! Wake up! - I snapped.

I could see him sit straight up and he was irritated.

-Listen through me. - I commanded.

“Do you think Katashi is sharing his whore?” Annchi asked her sister.

“Sheng and he share everything else.” Xiu laughed.

“Yuan will be here with the Han in two weeks time.” Annchi whispered in a giddy tone.

Sheng had moved so quickly that he was by my side in a moment, he wore only a ku. I pulled away from him and grabbed the dirk that I carried when not dressed formally. I was behind Annchi in second and she screamed. I held the dagger to her throat and I cut it a fraction.

“You are the one that sent word and had me attacked outside of Fuxin!” I seethed dangerously.
Sheng appeared beside me and his eyes were red. Annchi and Xiu were cowering like lambs in a slaughter. My mother appeared in a few minutes and she glided over. I was breathing heavily so as not to kill the deceitful bitch where she stood.

“I shall get the information you seek.” My mother said walking up to Annchi.

I backed away and my mother came close to her and turned her head and lowered her mouth to her neck and bit into her jugular. Annchi screamed in pain and my mother drank from her. I kept quiet but I actually enjoyed watching her suffer. My mother pulled back and her lips were stained red. She had not killed the traitorous bitch and I was disappointed.

“There is a complex scheme afoot. These chits were in it for power and prestige. This little bitch wanted you Sheng, obviously. This Yuan is a minor general in Katashi's army under Ichigawa. He has been the one in direct contact with Jing.” She said.

I was shaking terribly and I let my Dakkasou seep to the tips of my claws and I shoved my hand into Annchi's chest. Sheng tried to stop me but it was too late. Her heart was dissolving in my hand.

“That is for my dead pup. This is also for Sheng and his torture, and for betraying your own family. Sheng would never have been yours; he belongs to this Japanese slut.” I whispered into her dying ear. Her eyes widened as she died and I threw her away from me.

My mother nodded her approval and Sheng appeared horrified.

“If you wish to die by my hand then I would suggest you lie to me.” I said growling terribly.

“Hai.” Xiu said terrified.

“When did you send the correspondence and to where?” I snarled; my yoki was almost swirling about me and my eyes had long since bled red.

I knew my features were slowly changing. Sheng put a comforting hand on my shoulder and he away from me.

“I sent them this afternoon and they were going to Kyoto.” She screeched in fear.

Kyoto was a major city in the West. Ningen and youkai alike called it home. It was sixty miles south of the Western Palace. I narrowed my eyes and pulled from Sheng's yoki as well and produced the energy whip that I had been trying to produce without success for awhile. My mother's mouth dropped wide open at the display of power and I flung the whip at Xiu and cut open her belly, it had been a similar wound that Jing had inflicted on Sheng. I withdrew the whip and it disappeared. Sheng again was horrified and held my wrist.

“Enough.” He whispered.

“Sheng her beast is in control.” My mother whispered harshly to him.

I jerked my wrist out of his hold and went and knelt by Xiu's prone form. She was crying terribly.

“You will not die, but you will suffer as your Lord Sheng did. I should cut your throat. You will be brought before Lord Katashi and he will pass judgment on you.” I hissed.

I stepped back from her and my beast receded and my eyes returned to normal. I called for a guard and the healer and had Xiu taken away. I walked by Annchi's body and spit at it.

“Burn it.” I ordered a guard.

My word was followed to the letter and Sheng hung back a bit. I made my way back to my rooms and sat at the desk. I started writing a letter furiously in Kanji. My second mate came up behind and put his hands on my shoulders.

“What?” I asked annoyed.

“You should have spared them and left their fates to Katashi. They were his cousins.” He said quietly.

“Sheng you would do well to remember this, I am the Lady here right now. My word is as Katashi's. I speak for him. You are his brother no doubt but you serve as an advisor.” I said in a very cold voice.

“Asuna, I have served as regent for him numerous times. Those were his cousins.” He said firmly.

I stood up and whirled on him. I was furious again and I pinned him with a hateful stare.

“They were responsible for Jing's torture of you, the death of my pup, General Hideaki's demise, and they betrayed their clan. What in Kamis name did you expect me to do, throw them a party?” I said frigidly.

“They were his cousins; he should be responsible for their demise.” He said.

“Sorry that your lover was killed? I stopped her heart in my hand Sheng.” I replied in a nasty tone.

“In the seven hells no! I never loved her. I am advising you of the right thing.” He said defensively.

“You should know that I will be going back to Japan.” I stated.

“No you will not.” He said furiously.

“You will not stop me.” I said coldly.

“Like hell I won't” he threatened me.

“Things have changed Sheng!” I yelled.

“You will not put yourself or either one of those pups in danger. You will be going to He Gang so that you can birth them safely.” He snapped.

“I can fight and quite well.” I said seething.

“You can hold the fronts here in Manchuria in safety. I will not lose my family.” He snarled in my face.

“Sheng.” I barked in anger.

“I will hear no more. I no longer feel shame in my feelings for you and I will fight you to save you. I do this for myself as well as Katashi.” He said stepping back.

“You take too many liberties.” I said sharply.

“Hai I do. I protect what is mine.” He said.

“I will eventually have my way.” I said seating myself.

“Over my dead body, I will send the letter with mine. I believe it would be faster to send it by way of your mother.” He said with his hand out.

“Hai do not tempt me.” I said handing him the parchment.

“I feel your anger and rage quite well Koi. I know you are fantasizing of maiming me right now. You will forgive me later.” He said taking the parchment and heading for the door.

“When are you kidnapping me to He Gang?” I asked raising a brow.

“This very night, I suggest you prepare yourself.” He stated starting to leave.

I picked up a small vase and threw it at his head. It shattered and he smiled.
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Sheng and I were in He Gang for almost two months. Katashi and my father were crisscrossing Japan in search of the elusive Jing. She had taken a blow when her sources within Katashi's army and palace had been exposed. The enemy had gotten careless and we had exposed that weakness. I shifted in the bed; my belly was swollen some from the pups. Sheng moved next to me and laid a hand on my stomach. Even in sleep his was protective. We always started out in separate rooms but he would seek out my bed before the end of the night. He always tangled his limbs in mine and usually kept a hand on my belly. Our bond had grown tremendously and it became natural that he was always with me. We still fought horribly and I usually committed a small act of violence. I still felt that my place was in Japan and he was determined that these pups would be birthed in complete safety and isolation. There were times our fighting ended in intense rutting. Somehow in front of servants we remained as we should and we would fight about mostly political matters. I missed the Western Palace immensely and I wanted to go back. I knew that Sheng wanted me here also to have me to himself. In the outside world he had to share with Katashi. I fell into a fitful sleep and I was soon gripped in a nightmare. I was seeing past events I was sure of it. I saw a hanyou in a darkened castle. He had long black hair and crimson eyes. His humanoid form was beautiful. His chest was chiseled and his abdomen defined. I briefly saw a spider shaped scar on his back. I felt such terrible malice coming from him and shuddered. I was vaguely aware of hands on me but I could not tear my eyes away. The creature seemed to sense my presence and turned and he seemed to see me.

“What are you?” He asked.

-You see me? - I asked surprised.

He held a katana in his hand and stared openly at me. My mouth was in the shape of an `o' and we stared at each other.

-Naraku- I breathed.

He cocked his head to the side and raised his eyebrows. It was him; I was sure of it. I was not solid I was also certain of that.

“Are you a spirit?” he asked coolly.

-I do not know. - I answered honestly.

“You bear the markings of Sesshomaru, who are you?” he said smirking.

-You cannot use me hanyou, you may put aside those thoughts. - I said frankly.

“How do you know my thoughts?” He asked.

-This is not real and you no longer exist. - I stated.

“How can you know? It seems I am the one corporeal.” He said with a nasty smile.

-Because you died over a century ago. - I said breathing.

“I promise you wench that I am very much alive.” He said laughing.

I woke up in a sweat and Sheng had his hands on my shoulders.

“Koi you were talking in your sleep.” He whispered in my ear.

“I had the strangest dream.” I said.

“You said the name Naraku. Why were talking about the underworld?” he breathed into my hair.

My hand was shaking and I did not understand the vision. It seemed too real and vivid.

“I want to go home.” I said.

“Koi. I know you miss the West but He Gang is safest.” He said nuzzling my neck.

“I am missing something Sheng. I dream about Naraku and it means what?” I whispered.

“Try to regain sleep.” He prompted me as he laid me down.

“Sheng I am missing something.” I whispered again as I closed my eyes.
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I was dressed the next morning in a bright red kimono with sakura blossoms all over the hem and edged the sleeves. I had on a pink obi. I was sitting in the library reading scrolls and books about Japan. Tekeshi may have transplanted himself to Manchuria but his collection was almost exclusively Japanese. Both courts spoke Japanese which I found odd. Sheng had decided that he needed to hunt and was in search of sustenance that only chasing prey could give. Sheng's name was Han for victory, Katashi's name was Japanese and I was even more curious about Sheng's heritage. He truly did not know his history and did not seem to care. His miniature of his mother was all he had; her name had been Jia Li. She was Chinese obviously but from where? Katashi kept his libraries current and I was thankful for that. I was reading about the great Shikon no Tama debacle. In this particular volume Naraku was given a whole unit. There were no portraits of him but I knew what he looked like in his humanoid form at least. I was curious if the Kamis were trying to tell me something. Surely there was a tie between Jing and Naraku. I eliminated the idea that Jing was Naraku but there had to be a tie. They were both shape shifters and Naraku's name meant underworld and hell; Jing was a creature of the Netherworld. It meant something it had to. Naraku had sworn he was alive, but when he was killed he had technically attained youkai status. The creature I saw was hanyou. If Naraku were alive what power could he possibly be after? The Shikon no Tama had been destroyed supposedly through an unselfish wish. I wanted to see Katashi and I wished to grill my relatives for information. I knew Katashi and my father had made it to Okinawa. The southernmost islands had only recently come under the control of the ningen Satsuma clan. I growled lightly and I felt stirrings in my belly. I looked down surprised and growled again. I again felt small movements and I smiled. My pups were showing life and it thrilled me. As much as I detested hiding out, I wanted these pups more. I was a pregnant bitch and Sheng was an over protective male. Sheng returned with a satisfied smirk on his face and I could tell he had taken some large prey. He had changed into a sleeveless vest and ku the color of his eyes. I wanted to devour him on the spot and he smirked at my hungry gaze. He captured my lips and he embraced me. I showed him my dream that I had and let him feel the pups through me. He thrilled at the latter and put an ear to my stomach and growled softly. He could hear their tiny heart beats and he looked up at me with a look of utter happiness.

“I am glad that you are pleased. What about my dream?” I asked sitting.

“Koi, I do not think it was a dream but it makes no sense.” He replied.

“I could get more information if I was in Japan.” I stated.

“Asuna you are safest here. I know you hate it. I know you are a great warrior but this is too important.” He said nuzzling my neck.

“You could stay with me at all times. It is not general knowledge where I have been. I know this means something Sheng.” I said imploring him.

“Can we discuss this more tomorrow?” he whispered into my ear.

“Hai it can be discussed tomorrow; but I wish for a real discussion and not a placation.” I said running my hands over his bare arms.

“Meet me in my rooms please.” He said shivering under my touch.

“Hai, you go first.” I stated lustfully.

I loved him; I hurt without him. I had to have him close to me not to suffer that sucking void.
Death was almost preferable to that pain.
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I was back in the castle. I wandered around and the darkness was foreboding. I decided if I needed to be here then I would use the situation to my advantage. I felt his presence before I saw him; I was still in a phantom state.

“So you have come to haunt me again.” He said with curiosity lacing his voice.

-Hai. - I whispered in his mind.

“Who are you?” He said narrowing his eyes.

-I am Asuna. Are you androgynous? - I thought.

He laughed with genuine mirth and I narrowed my eyes at him.

“Shall I prove that I am male?” he asked wickedly.

-You are a shape shifter, my question had merit.-

“You are related to Lord Sesshomaru some way; the markings obviously give you away.” He commented.

-He is my Lord. - I thought.

“How is it you are here?” he asked standing.

-I do not know. - I answered.

“I have never seen a female inu, this is intriguing.” He whispered.

-I cannot be used for your malice Naraku. - I said.

“Are we done yet with the games?” he asked annoyed.

-I am not the one playing games, you on the other hand are notorious for it. - I thought to him.

“You know about me and I detest not having information.” He said in a low voice.

-I cannot help the circumstances. - I stated.

“You are a curious creature.” He said as he circled me.

-The same could be said of you. You a hanyou who was created asexually. - I said.

“Hai I suppose I was. Again you know all about me and I nothing of you. You said last time that
I had died over a century before. That would mean you are obviously from a distant time.” He replied.

-It matters not from when I come. I am here and I will not be denied. - I said in a demanding tone.

“Full blooded youkai, you think you can order me around?” he snapped.

-What are you gonna do Naraku, try and absorb me? I think not. - I said.

“I tire of the conversation.” He said in another low tone.

-I have a need to converse with you and that is what I shall do. - I growled.

“You are an inu. All bark and no bite make for a grumpy puppy?” he said in a demeaning tone.

-Funny. I am not a half breed. - I said smirking.

He came closer to my phantom self and it seemed he would try and strike me.

“Ask a question and I will see if I care to answer.” He smirked.

-What do you know of the Netherworld? - I asked.

He looked at me thoughtfully and it again struck me of how beautiful this form was. I did not understand his need for the Shikon.

“Strange question.” He said.

-Answer it. - I demanded

“I have never been to the Netherworld; but according to you I have been dead a century so maybe I could inform you later?” He said sarcastically.

-Why in the seven hells would the Kamis show me this, you are worthless! - I said irritated.

“What ails you so Asuna?” he asked intrigued.

-I need to know the tie to Jing. You must know something!-

“Jing? I have no idea of whom you speak.” He snapped.

-Bai Gu Jing, you do not know of her? - I thought desperately.

“No.” he said firmly.

-I have no use to continue a pointless conversation. - I sneered.

“You are quite an arrogant bitch. You must be his progeny.” He stated.

-It is not arrogance when I know I am superior.-

“Really? What makes you think so?” he asked dangerously.

-Because I have no need to slay innocents! - I said haughtily.

“I make a place for myself. Self preservation means that I have to seek power.” He informed me.

-You make choices that have destroyed lives. Why is your existence more important than your enemies? You have made the decision to have those enemies by destroying those lives. Because
when you were human you desired power and a miko. You took into yourself evil to control. - I said.

He looked at me and I could tell he was highly angered and desperately curious at the same time. I looked at him thoughtfully and wondered again at the reason I was here.

“It could be that I am just evil.” He stated.

-I suppose that could be the case, so why answer any of my questions? - I inquired.

“I am curious as to my demise and ways to prevent it.” He said simply.

-I cannot and would not help you in that course of action. - I stated.

“So why stay?” He observed.

-Because I have yet to wake up. - I replied.

“You are asleep?” he asked surprised.

-Hai. That is why I think none of this is real and you really do not exist. - I said.

“But I told you last time, I am very much alive.” He said coming closer.

-I still do not believe it. - I stated.

“You are a comely wench.” He observed.

-I care not if you find me attractive. - I snapped.

“I was making an observation.” He stated stepping back.

-I do not resemble a certain miko. - I said cruelly.

“You speak too much on what you do not know.” He said angrily.

-I go now. - I said fading away.

I sat up from my prone form and realized it was morning. Sheng was snoring next to me. I slipped from the bed and went to the window. I looked out on the landscape and wondered if these visions were real. They seemed real but I could not be sure. I needed to get back to Japan and speak with those that had known Naraku best, his enemies. I knew there was something I was supposed to know but I did not see it as of yet.
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Sheng finally relented and we were returning to the Western Palace. I had conditions placed on me and he would not allow me out of the grounds. I hated all the restrictions but I tolerated them for the pups. I had sent word to Katashi and my father that we had returned to Japan. Sheng knew I missed Katashi and I knew he did too. I did not know how long they would continue to be gone but I really wanted to give birth in the West.

I continued to pour over the histories from a century before and I was becoming obsessed with finding a connection. I had no dreams for quite awhile and I was convinced that it had just been dreams and not visions. There was much known on Naraku and there was also much not known. I intended to piece together the puzzle. I intended to travel to Edo and visit Onigumo's cave. I was going to have to outmaneuver Sheng but I knew I could; I knew every rock and every tree in the West.

I swore Mayu to secrecy and I slipped out of a secret passage that led into the forest that surrounded the palace. I masked my aura and moved stealthily. I was shielding very lightly but maintained a light opening with him. I figured that I could maintain the head start by about a day and I knew he would come after me. I sighed and wished I could birth the pups soon so that I could regain some semblance of normalcy. I kept to traveling by foot until I got out of the Western Territory and then I would change to using my yoki cloud. I kept a firm hand on my fang and continued moving east. I reached the border and I created my cloud and took to the skies. I looked down as I passed and saw rice patties and small villages.

-Where are you? - came the thunderous thought.

-I am busy. - I returned.

-Asuna you are keeping me from finding you, where are you!!- Sheng thundered.

-I am fine. There is something I have to do. I am masking heavily. - I replied.

-Where in the seven hells are you! - He snapped in my head.

-You are giving me a headache. - I pathed angrily.

-You are thinking headache now! - He snarled in my head.

-If you cannot be reasonable then I will cut off communication. I shall be back at the Palace
shortly. I am on hunt. - I thought to him.

-You think I could not have hunted for you? - He snapped.

-I think I wanted to do it myself. I am perfectly capable. - I thought calmly.

-Damn it all onna! - He growled loudly in my mind.

-You will forgive me. - was my sickly sweet thought.

He continued to growl and throw a mental temper tantrum and I continued to ignore him. He would have a hard time tracking my scent and I would have to listen to him on a tirade when I got back.

-Stubborn bitch! - He thought.

I ignored him and he snarled viciously. I knew he was going to start searching and I mentally shrugged.
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I landed easily and outside of Edo the following morning. I was going to visit with my aunt and uncle after I visited the cave. I was looking for the entrance and had to remove foliage that had overgrown the front. I stepped into the dank hole and I had to suppress a shiver. The place still had a terrible aura of evil. I could not reconcile the intelligent hanyou with this awful dread I felt in this place. I sat down and decided to try and force a dream vision. I closed my eyes and slipped into a deep meditative state.
I looked around and I was in the dark castle. I wandered the halls and made my way toward the hanyou. I slipped through the shoji door and observed him leaning against a wall resting. I watched him as he seemingly slept and moved closer.

“I never sleep heavily.” He said with his eyes still closed.

-How do you even know I am here? - I thought to him.

“I feel your yoki, it is insufferable.” He answered opening his crimson eyes.

-Like your own is much better? - I thought staring him down.

“I am feared and yet you do not, why is that?” he asked in a nasty tone.

-I am not afraid of much hanyou. Circumstances are what they are. - I stated.

“What answers do you seek, I have none.” He snapped.

-My presence bothers you. Good, you need to feel uncomfortable.-

“You have not come in awhile; I had thought you had had enough.” He smirked.

-Your games? No not yet but I will let you know. - I thought contemptuously.

“I hate your presence yet I find I look forward to it.” He stated bluntly.

-Because I do not fear you and you cannot try and take my power. You hide and let others do your work for you. It must terribly lonely. - I said.

“You are a presumptuous bitch.” He said thinly.

-Hai I am. - I replied.

“Why do you not corporealize. Surely you can if you can project yourself here.” He commented.

-Project myself? - I asked.

“How else do you explain your presence?” he asked.

-I truly have not questioned how I have been appearing to you. I still question if you are in fact
real. - I stated.

“So you come to my presence to annoy me?” he asked.

-Why can you not answer a statement without asking a question? - I asked of him.

“Because it is my nature.” He said.

-I will not put myself in harm’s way. If I am projecting as you suggest, I have no clue as to how.
- I commented.

He stood and started to circle me as he did last time. I looked at him with a raised brow and he smirked at me.

-Are you trying to figure how to best me?-

“I want to face you for real.” He said wickedly.

-You want to punish me for speaking the truth. - I stated.

“Maybe. I could judge your strength.” He said.

-I am a taiyoukai and one that you will never know. - I said standing.

“You have never confirmed if you are his child or not.” He said narrowing his eyes.

I shrugged my shoulders and stared back at him.

-Lord Sesshomaru is lord of the inu and I am inu. - I said.

“With his almost exact markings?” he asked in disbelief.

-It tends to be an extended family. - I lied.

“Why are you not waking yet?” he asked pointedly.

-Because I sit in a cave and I am under my own violation this time. - I said without emotion.

“What cave is that?” he asked suspiciously.

-Onigumo. - I breathed.

His eyes had darkened and seemed to glow. I could see his claws flexing and I smirked. He really was too easy. I looked away toward the window and whispered Sheng. It seemed my furious mated had found his errant one.

-Goodbye Naraku, I am being summoned. - I said lightly.

“Who would summon you?” he asked in nasty tone.

-My mate. - I said as I faded out.

I woke out of my self induced trance and stared up into the stormy eyes of Sheng. I gave him a lopsided grin and he snarled in response.

“Why are you here?” He thundered.

“It is a cave and I am well sheltered. My uncle and Aunt are less than a thousand feet away.” I replied.

“I want to tear your hide.” He growled.

“Am I supposed to be intimidated?” I said staring at his mouth.

“Asuna quit trying to seduce me, I am thoroughly angry.” He said in an angry whisper.

I sat up and very lightly kissed his mouth. He was furious and I could feel it reverberate through his body. I stood slowly and took his hand put it to my stomach. He felt the pups under his touch and his face relaxed a little.

“I had to do this and I need you to understand that. I would never answer to anybody but my father under normal circumstances.” I said.

“I do not dominate you to control you per say. I have been asserting authority to protect you from you at times.” He said angry.

“Oh yes of course, forgive me. I need not yourself inflated male inu pride.” I snapped.

“You cannot accept that you are a pregnant bitch and the males in your life are at a heightened sense of duty. Why is it wrong for us to want to not only protect you but those precious pups?” he said in a fury.

“Things are not happening Sheng or have you not noticed?”

“Hai I have noticed. I have also noticed that the female I have given my heart, mind, and soul to likes to put herself in constant danger.” He snapped.

“What are you going to do? Punish me? I think not.” I commented.

“Arrogance!” he snarled.

“Fact.” I said smirking.

“You use your condition to manipulate again. I was raised that the bitch submitted to her alpha.” He said furiously.

“You are not my alpha my father is.” I said devoid of emotion.

“I may be one of two mates but I am still your mate. I will make you listen to reason.” He said grabbing me roughly.

My breath hitched and what normally followed our tirades was a very intense rutting with him trying to make me submit. He looked down at me and smirked evilly. I wondered at his change in demeanor and it dawned on me that he had no intentions of doing the norm. I shoved at him in anger.

“You want me to take you.” He said smiling openly.

“I enjoy our time together.” I stated through clenched teeth.

“Too bad. Are you coming?” he said walking away from me.

I stared daggers at his back and could not believe that the bastard had bested me. I growled at him and he laughed. I followed after him and realized what was my punishment would be, lack of intimacy. I wanted to claw his back at the moment. He had earned a place as an advisor because of his superior intelligence and he had turned it against me.
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I was in a foul mood and still wanting to kill Sheng. He became merciless and went so far as to be suggestive and still deny me. He refused to sleep in my room and I became even moodier. He would stroke his yoki against mine and withdraw it. I was seeing red literally. We had returned to the Palace and he avoided me, always touching my mind but not my person. Unfortunately several windows did not fare well under my claws. I was going mad with surges in my hormones and I would have gleefully raped him at that moment. My mother would give me a knowing smile and I wanted to plan his murder.

“Bastard!” I muttered as I lay in my bed alone again.

I closed my eyes and snarled as I fell into a fitful sleep. I was again at the dark hanyou's castle and this time he seemed to be expecting me. He was not in the room he normally occupied but in what seemed as a Great Hall. I cocked my head to the side and watched him as I normally did. He was fingering the infamous Shikon no Tama and he looked up at me. His eyes were glowing in the near darkness and he moved stealthily toward my phantom self.

“I wondered when you would return.” He stated.

-I did not intend to return; apparently you are to teach me something. - I replied.

“You are mated. I am curious about that.” He demanded.

-Why? It does not affect you. - I said in surprise.


“You annoy me. I do not like being annoyed.” He said menacingly.

-I cannot help if my being mated annoys you. Why does it bother you? - I asked.

“Because I find myself anticipating your little visits. You do not fear and wish for my death as so many do.” He stated.

-You brought those wishes upon yourself. You want what you cannot have. - I pointed out.

“Your mate, I want to know of him.” He commanded.

-What do you want to know? - I asked leaning against a wall.

“What is he?”

-He is a male inu. - came my answer.

“How many damn dogs are there in this world?” He said irritated.

He sat against the same wall and continued to play with the jewel absentmindedly. I searched his countenance and sighed.

-There is a whole wide world of youkai Naraku as you already know. - I said.

“Hmm. You were not pleased that you were found last time.” He observed.

-I was not pleased. - I replied.

“Why?” he asked deliberately.

-I am pupped and he is overly protective. - I said shrugging my shoulders.

“You are pregnant? I did not see that. Interesting.” He commented.

- I see no point in this turn of conversation. - I said in irritation.

“I know that you are a female inu in the household of a bitter enemy. You are a taiyoukai expecting puppies and you are mated. Tell me more.” He said sarcastically.

-They are not puppies, they are pups. - I corrected him.

“They? Do you inu have litters? - He snorted.

-I am not ookami! I am a twin and they run in the lineage. - I snapped at him.

“You have a twin.” He said goading me.

-Hai. I know what you are trying to do and I will tell you no more. I am not your enemy. - I said exasperated.

“Oh really, you know what I am trying to do.” He snarled.

-Let us speak of you. You said you are male. How do you know? Do you even know your true form? - I asked him sarcastically.

“Hai I know my true form. I also told you that I could prove that I was male. Care to find out?” he said dangerously.

He was challenging me and I enjoyed the banter. He thought of himself as intimidating and I wanted to laugh.

-How are you going to prove you are male when I am in this state? Show me something that can shape shifted? - I said laughing.

“You are an insufferable bitch.” He snarled.

-Truly how could you prove it? You are also stating the obvious. - I said with a smile.

He was glaring at me in anger and something I recognized, hunger. I could not tell if he wanted my power or me. I was intensely curious and I stared right back.

-You want me. - I stated.

“I want to dominate you, there is a difference.” He said bluntly.

-Ah yes. You would be male then. Only males feel the need to dominate and punish powerful females. - I replied.

“Are you powerful?” he asked with interest.

-I told you I am a taiyoukai, what do you think? - I snapped.

“I wonder what it would like to run these hands up your thighs?” he said thickly.

-Smooth. - I said taunting him.

“I really would enjoy killing you.” He muttered.

-I am sure. I have enjoyed killing my enemies. - I said looking at him.

“You have killed? That surprises me. You have such a high and mighty attitude.” He commented.

-Very recently Naraku. The difference between you and me is I will kill to save my kin. You kill because you enjoy the suffering. - I retorted.

“You are related to Sesshomaru and you do not enjoy death in of itself?” he asked haughtily.

-You do not know Sesshomaru-sama as well as you think you do. He may be cold but he is not purposefully cruel. He has reasons for every move he makes. - I stated emphatically.

“Spoken like a true servant of his lord.” He said snidely.

-You do not know me. - I said angry.

“That is correct. It does not mean that I do not intend to try.” He said in a purr.

-I take my leave of you then. - I said.

“Remember Asuna that you appeared to me.” He said.

-I do not forget. - I said as I faded out.
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I lay on my side and contemplated what had been said and shook my head. I wondered if it was possible to actually go there. I again shook my head at the ridiculous notion and figured that I must be tapping into something supernatural. He seemed real enough but I realized I was playing with fire. I was determined to leave well enough alone and focus on a way of destroying Jing. She had been quiet for too long and I imagined that she was regrouping. Naraku was a shape shifter and I grew curious as to what I could learn from him about that. I went through the motions of being catered to and pampered and I hated it. I should have been on a field of battle or at least in the dojo. I saw to endless amounts of petty disputes and quarrels between villagers and copious amounts of paperwork. I detested the confinement but knew it was best for my little ones. I wrote a letter to Katashi complaining of Sheng's overzealous care of myself and that he would be most pleased with the results but if his advisor ended up dead he would know why. My answer came in the reply of himself and my father for a brief respite. Sheng seemed thoroughly happy to see his brother/Lord as did I.

“You truly mean no sign of her at all?” I asked in disbelief.

“Hai that is what I am saying.” Katashi repeated for the fourth time.

He had his hand to my belly and grinned like an idiot. I was halfway through my pregnancy and I was round now. I stared up at him and he kissed me fiercely.

“I have missed you more than I can express.” He whispered.

“Hai I have missed you too. Do I not look like the perfect palace bitch?” I said teasing.

“You look more beautiful than I can say.” He said in almost awe.

“You forgive me and understand why I had to kill Annchi?” I asked searching his eyes.

“I would have preferred to dispatch her myself but I concur with your decision.” He answered.

“I left her disgusting sister alive for you to deal with.” I said in a nasty tone.

“Hai I will do that when I return to Shenyang. Sheng tells me you wish to remain here and birth the pups in the West. I still think you would be better served to remove yourself back to He Gang or Shenyang.” He said.

“Do you realize I have seen more of your Winter Palace then you have this past year?” I asked.

“Hai but you are my mate and the Lady also, why should you not?” he asked in return.

I growled low in my throat at the more questions answered with more questions.

“I am staying here for now. Sheng can get over his prideful nature and learn to deal with me as I am.” I said for Katashi and Sheng's benefit.

I heard a growl in my head and Katashi had barked a laugh at my statement.

“That will happen when the Netherworld freezes over.” He said with mirth.

“He was not pleased by my statement.” I said slyly.

“I think I find this bond amusing. Well you can path to him that I find it hilarious because it is so true.” He laughed.

“He wants you to meet him in the dojo and back up your words.” I said with a small grin.

Katashi kissed me lightly and took his leave. Sheng and I were finding our balance with each other and the situation at last. I decided to take the opportunity to visit with the dark hanyou. I was at the mercy of my pregnant body and its need for extra sleep.
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He was making it harder and harder for me to find him when I came or he was just not here. I wandered the lonely castle and sought him out. I was disgusted at my fascination with him but I still came here to this place. I felt his aura and I instinctively knew he had not sensed mine. I moved and found him taking a bath. The thought made me want to laugh. His eyes were closed and he did not look like the bastard he was. I kept my eyes averted from his naked form and I surged my yoki to make him react. His eyes opened and he seemed surprised at my nearness.

-You do sleep. - I said.

“Occasionally as well as bathe.” He replied in contempt.

-Did I disturb you? You were not doing much- I said with a smile.

“Do you always come upon unsuspecting males at bath time?” he snapped.

-No it usually happens to me. - I said with a grin.

“You are almost too happy. Did someone give you a chew toy?” he replied in sarcasm.

-You could say that. - I replied wickedly.

He looked at me and noticed that even in this state I was attempting modesty. I kept my head turned some. He growled and got out of the spring and wrapped a yukata around his body. I had glimpsed taut and rippling flesh and it made me shiver for my recently sex starved body. I knew he sensed the change in banter and he turned and looked at me.

“You want me too.” He replied.

-I want what you can provide me. - I corrected him.

“Is there a difference?” he said raising a brow.

-You want to dominate me and I want your knowledge. It is simple and without strings. - I said thoughtfully.

“But I cannot dominate what is not here now can I?” He snapped at me.

-This situation unnerves you and it suits me just fine. - I thought.

“You are a little used to getting what you want and I am in no mood to play games with you.” He snarled at me.

-I need your knowledge. I may be able to find a way to meet you in reality but you will not try and take what is mine; that includes my power through absorbing and my pups. You will not attempt to use me in any way shape or form to beat your current enemies.” I commanded.

“What makes you think I will play by your rules?” he said.

-Because you are a curious creature as is I. - I stated bluntly.

“When would you make this attempt?” he asked.

-Within my day. It would require me to travel. I mean it Naraku, I am a telepath I will be able to sense deceit. I will slay you myself. - I said fiercely.

“I will go agree to your terms for now.” He said.

-Will your barrier recognize me? - I ask.

“Strange question. I can let whoever pass that I wish.” He replied thoughtfully.

-Fine. - I stated as I faded.

I awoke with a plan and trepidation. I was going to need my cousin's help.
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I stood at the Bone Eaters Well listening to Akemi going on and on.

“Akemi I know what I am doing.” I snapped quietly.

“Are you sure?” she asked hotly.

“The Kamis would not have shown me this if this was not supposed to take place. Your mother is here because of a twist of fate.” I said emphatically.

“Hai I know but the past? You will not tell what exactly?” she implored me.

“No but I know the key to the present is in the past. I feel it.” I stated.

“Take the beads and use your will as a catalyst. You are a powerful telepath, I have no doubt you will make it work.” She said.

“Uncle Yasha will not notice them missing right away?” I asked concerned.

“He takes them off now and then, he wears them most of the time but he does not always remember things.” She said winking at me.

“Thank you. Sheng will come looking for me; you do not know where I am going. My connection will be cut off from him and he will likely be livid. Tell him I passed this way and I needed some medicine for the pups.” I said.

“Hai. Will he kill me?” she asked in fright.

“No. He is beyond honorable. He will kill me!” I said laughing.

I hated to do what I was about to do but it could not be helped. I brushed my mind against his and knew he slept. I whispered my love and he moaned in his sleep hazed mind.

“Alright, I go.” I said taking the beads.

I pictured the timeframe strongly in my mind and willed it so. I easily jumped into the ancient well and felt the magics flare around. I kept the image thoroughly ensconced in my mind and projected it. There was a huge surge of yoki and blue light and moments later I landed at the bottom. I clutched the beads in my hand and jumped out of the well. Everything looked similar but my cousin did not stand there. I masked my aura heavily and I clutched my chest. The pain from my cutting off Sheng was a very palatable thing. I knew he would jump from sleep and be enraged. He would have to deal with it. I was in Edo of that I was certain. I moved swiftly and headed south. It would not take me long to reach the location of the castle. I had my fang at my waist and looked down at my swollen belly. I looked about as pregnant as a ningen would at six months. I was not so heavy yet that I was too exhausted to move but that would be very soon. I knew I could reach the castle in half a day's time. If Naraku's enemies knew how close he really was than they would be most unhappy. I doubted that Naraku would have believed his own senses. I know I doubted mine.

I traveled at a very stealthy speed for over half a day and reached the barrier. I placed my hand to it and felt his yoki. If I pressed it with my own he would recognize it but I also risked others knowing of my presence. I lowered my masking and pressed my yoki strongly against the barrier. I sensed a rippling but it remained intact. The hanyou would be notified and I had no doubts that he would come for me himself. I settled myself against a nearby tree and waited patiently. He wasted no time in coming and I sat there non plussed and serene. He appeared out of a black miasma and stood before me. He actually stared at me in utter disbelief.

“I see you recognized my yoki.” I observed.

“You are real.” He said narrowing his eyes.

“Hai I am quite real.” I said standing fluidly.

He stared at me openly and continued disbelief. I was overcome with mischief that I firmly blamed on Katashi and I reached up with my clawed hand and closed his mouth. He stared at my wrist and the marks that wrapped around it. I pulled my hand back and he circled me.

“Usually it is I that circles my prey, stop it is unnerving.” I snapped.

“Hai it is you, the same damn mouth.” He said standing still.

“I shall remind you that I remind so many others. You are not my lord and master.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“You are a powerful wench.” He said sensing my aura.

“Can we remove ourselves to your castle so that I do not raise alarms here?” I asked tersely.

He reached out and touched my cheek. I jumped at the contact and looked at him while raising a brow.

“Do not think I will allow you to use me for power. Try it and I will make you regret the day you became a hanyou.” I said coldly.

“You are most definitely related to Sesshomaru. “He said jerking his hand back.

Again I was filled with mischief and I placed myself within inches of his beautiful and terrible face. His eyes searched mine for my motive and I put my hand against his chest and pushed him backwards. He grabbed onto my arm and we went through his barrier. I managed to stay upright and he had me closer. There was a forbidden shiver that went down my spine and I pulled away.

“It is time to speak Naraku.” I said as I walked toward his hidden dwelling.

“You are a mystery.” He stated.

`Hai it is better that way. I will meet you at your castle. I prefer to travel there alone.” I said transforming into the sphere of light.

He met me moments later and I reappeared as my humanoid form. I went to his Great Hall with no instruction and sat against a wall. He followed me in silence. He sat himself about ten feet away and faced me,

“I want you to train me to fight you. I want you to teach me to think like you.” I stated bluntly.

“To the point, fine. What is in it for me?” he asked interested.

“Survival.” I said leaning forward.

“I see.” He replied thoughtfully.

“I will give you the information that it will take to survive.” I said.

“What does that take?” he asked.

“We have time, you will train me first and then I will share.” I replied.

“What makes you believe I will cooperate?” He asked with narrowed eyes.

“You are a selfish creature and wish not for death.” I said shrugging.

“What vendetta do you have against this Jing?” he asked.

“She has personally attacked me and mine and I will see her cowering before me when I gut her.” I said venomously.

“What could she have done?” He asked intensely curious.

“She killed my first pup and nearly killed my mate.” I snapped.

“You do this for family.” He stated.

“Is there any better reason?” I asked in return,

“I would not know; I accept your terms.” He replied.

“My original terms stand also. You will not harm myself or my pups or try and absorb our powers.” I said.

“I prefer to survive so I shall abide your terms.” He said.

“I need to know more about you first.” He said firmly.

“I am Asuna.” I said simply.

“More wench!”

“I am a daughter of the House of the Moon.” I said snappishly.

“Answer me the truth!” he yelled.

“I am my Lord's firstborn.” I growled.

He stared at me in utter shock. I was the child and niece of his two bitterest enemies and he knew my knowledge was sound.

“You bring yourself to me when you are his child; you are either very brave or very stupid.” He commented.

“Pup. I am his pup and I am just very determined.” I replied.

“You must want revenge badly to betray your family.” He observed.

“Not betraying them exactly. I will not help you win; I am just insuring your survival.” I said honestly.

“You are a curious creature.” He replied smoothly.

“I require sleep. I have to rest more often because of the pregnancy.” I said standing.

“I will show you to some rooms.” He said cordially.

“I will sleep in your room and you will watch over me as I sleep.” I demanded.

“Excuse me?” he said turning around in surprise.

“I have to be most careful here for myself and my pups. You have superior ability in barriers therefore I will be shielded by you. I am assuming you have recently faced Inuyasha and you are hiding out to heal from your wounds?” I inquired.

“Before this is done you will tell me everything.” He seethed.

“Maybe or maybe not. I intend to tell you just enough.” I said.

I followed him to his room and I recognized it well. It was sparsely furnished and I raised my eyebrow.

“You lack comfort.” I stated.

“I prefer to keep things simple.” He remarked in an angry tone.

“Can you at least have a futon laid down?” I asked annoyed.

“Can you lose your high and mighty attitude?” he sneered.

“Lay a futon down please?” I asked nicely.

“Hai I think I can manage.” He snapped.

His face betrayed his indignation and he left the room and motioned for me to follow. I felt the oppressive aura of a couple of his incarnations. There was heavy malice in the air.

“Could you send your minions away? They are insufferable.” I said.

He whirled on me and pressed me against the wall. His eyes were flashing and I smirked. I could feel his dark power rippling and I stared at him.

“Understand you are on my turf inu. You should not make too many demands for it might displease me.” He stated.

“You will find yourself dead before too long if you do not unhand me. You may be the high and mighty Naraku but I hold the cards hanyou.” I replied icily.

His face showed his contempt and sheer anger at my audacity. He let me go and motioned for me to follow. We went to a part of the castle that I had not been previously and he led me into a larger more spacious room. There was a large futon in the center and a wardrobe on the fall wall.

“These are your sleeping quarters, when you are humanoid that is.” I said approving.

“I thought Inuyasha and Sesshomaru were pests, you are a pain.” He commented.

“Why would you fall for Kikyo of all women?” I asked.

“Onigumo did; Not me Naraku.” He growled.

“I do not understand how you separate yourself from your ningen half. If this Onigumo is your ningen half then he is Naraku.” I said looking at him.

“Sleep. I will keep watch; your lessons begin on the morrow.” He said dismissively.

I chuckled and removed a small bag from my haori and looked over my shoulder.

“May I have privacy to change?” I asked.

“You do not sleep in your collar?” he replied flippantly.

“Your quips are clever but not in the least insulting. I find it uncomfortable to sleep in armor whilst in my condition.” I said sweetly.

He walked out of the sleeping room and slammed the shoji shut. I could see how he could be frightening but I had picked a time when I knew he had been injured. I was trying to time everything perfectly. I undid my armor and then I slipped off my haori then pulled my sleeping tunic over my head. I found it easier to pull something over my head then tie it at my waist right now. I undid my hakama then slipped them off. I laid my fang next to the futon. I held my chest as a wash of pain coursed through me from the cut off bond. I sighed then lied down and shut my eyes. I was exhausted from all the activity and knew that my little adventure could not take long. I was not sure how long I could handle the separation from Sheng. Guilt washed over me as I had left both Katashi and Sheng with no notice. I fell into oblivion.
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I was roused from sleep from soft caresses on my thighs. I was in haze and called out Sheng's name. I heard soft laughter and I was fully awake. I stared down at Naraku and he grinned wickedly.

“Lesson one inu. You must always be aware.” He said as he sat back.

“You wake me to say that?” I snarled at him.

He chuckled at my temper and continued to stare at me.

“Your mate's name is Sheng. That is Chinese.” He remarked.

“Hai.” I said glaring at him.

“You talk in your sleep inu.” He told me.

“What do I say hanyou?” I said disrespectfully.

“Katashi. You also said the name Sheng.” He said raising his brow.

My cheeks burned and I looked away from him. He waited for me to speak and I looked back at him. I absently pulled my hair over my shoulder and started to braid it.

“If I am to help you understand your enemy I must have something to go on.” He snapped.

“Katashi is my mate also.” I admitted.

He looked at me in surprise and waited for me to continue.

“Katashi is an inu lord in China. Sheng is telepath as well and we bonded accidentally.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Well what tangled webs you weave.” He laughed.

“Shut your filthy mouth hanyou.” I roared.

He pressed me back into the futon and glared at me.

“How much better do you think you are inu? I will not be hanyou forever and when that happens
I will lay waste to whatever I wish.” He said dangerously.

“That is your ultimate weakness HANYOU. You believe your right to lay waste as you put it makes you enemies wherever you turn. You care not and that makes you a bastard.” I said up to him.

He again sat back and glared at me. My face was set in stone and I clutched my chest.

“What ails you?” he growls.

“That is none of your business. Jing was originally after Katashi and his territory. We mated and I allied myself with him against her. I moved my soldiers to China and that is when she attacked me personally. Since then she has been after me.” I condensed the story.

He looked thoughtful for a moment and then stood and went to the window. He looked out and then turned to me. He was intelligent I could see plainly. It was such a waste for him to obsess over the damn Shikon no Tama.

“You said it yourself when you said she was after this Katashi. You mated him then made an enemy of her.” He said.

I looked up at him and the truth of the situation dawned on me. I could not believe I had not seen it sooner. I even wondered if Jing had shifted her appearance to one of Katashi's former rutting partners. I hit the futon in anger and realized that Naraku had seen the truth of the situation.

“I am her rival.” I said simply.

“Hai.” He answered with a smirk.

“I am glad you are enjoying my discomfiture.” I said.

“Think as to why she made a military incursion against the Chinese inu.” He said prompting me.

“She has a legitimate link to his title.” I said shaking.

“Hai.” He said in a low voice.

I started shaking violently and in a fury. I looked up at Naraku and my eyes had gone scarlet. He appeared intrigued and my yoki was overwhelming. I wanted to change to my true form and reined in my beast. A tear actually slipped out of my eye and I stood.

“Your first mate has been careless. His behavior has dishonored you, the daughter of the Great Sesshomaru.” He laughed.

“Do not speak anymore or I will melt your tongue from your mouth with my Dakkasou.” I
threatened.

“You came here to learn to defeat your enemy. I have only lead you to the truth.” He said smirking.

“I wish for you to do something for me.” I said calm.

“And that would be?” he answered.

I pulled my tunic away from neck and exposed my mating mark to Katashi. He looked at me surprised.

“Control your miasma and rid me of this!” I hissed.

“This will hurt horribly.” He said coming closer to me.

“I care not. Be warned, control it and do not harm my pups or you will be harmed.” I hissed again.

I saw the black miasma surround his claws and he sank it into the juncture. I bit back a scream and kept myself stoic. My soul was in anguish and I wished for Sheng. I was a fool and my mind screamed that I wished I had never met the Manchu Lord. He pulled his claws away and I looked at the wound that replaced the mating mark. I pulled away from him and turned my back to him. I was scrambling as to what I was going to do.

“You need to lose in order to live. You have to give up the Shikon no Tama. You will not survive its completion.” I said in a whisper.

“What?” he said in surprise.

“There are powers that will gained on all sides and yours will not be powerful enough even with the jewel. You have a choice.” I said.

“What powers?” he demanded.

“I told you I would not tell you that. You have fulfilled your end of the bargain. I have fulfilled mine. I have no reason left to be here. Give up the cursed jewel.” I said moving away from him.

I hid my face and tears spilled from my eyes. I again blamed my pregnancy on my failure to control my emotions. I felt him move closer and I turned on him. I held his jaw in my hand and willed him to be stupid.

“Do not attempt to manipulate me right now. You will not use me to gain anything for that fucking jewel.” I snarled.

He seemed surprised at my feral behavior and I jerked my hand away. I backed away and grabbed my armor and began slipping it on over my tunic. He stopped me and threw it away from me.

“I will maim you.” I said angry.

“You were right when you said your thigh was smooth.” He said as if in a trance.

He moved to where he was standing behind me and cupped my breasts. I said and did nothing to stop him. He rolled my nipples through the silk and I groaned.

“I am no longer obsessed with the miko Asuna. I had not been for some time. You on the other hand; I will conquer you.” He whispered into my ear.

“You will be unable to hanyou.” I breathed.

He moved one hand and cupped my sex underneath the sleeping tunic. He felt my heat and slipped a finger between my lips and found my bundle of nerves. I gasped as he put small amounts of pressure on it and massaged it back and forth. My back was pressed against his chest and I moaned.

“Hai I will conquer you.” He purred into my ear.

“You will never touch me again.” I groaned.

He slipped a finger into my center and massaged my clit with his other hand. I was moaning loudly and hating myself for it. He increased the pressure and I was close to completion. He thrust his finger in and out and I cried out as I tightened around his finger. He sucked on my earlobe and I shuddered against him.

“I have released you from one and I will release you from the other.” He whispered.

“I told you that you would never touch me again!” I said jerking away.

“We shall see.” He said smirking.

“I am leaving.” I said gathering my things.

“I suppose I shall have to try and find you in a century hmmm?” he replied.

“You will be dead. Nothing means more to you than that jewel and your selfish desires.” I said brushing past him.

He allowed me through his barrier and I transformed into my sphere and went in the direction of Edo. It took me a half a day and I made it to the Bone Eaters Well. I grasped the beads tightly and jumped lightly into the well and the blue lights and magics surrounded me. The yoki surged and I landed at the bottom. I jumped up and landed right outside of the well. Sheng was sitting beneath the God Tree and I stared blankly at him. I reconnected the bond but with heavy shielding. He stormed over to me and the look of fury left his face. My expression lacked life and I walked in the direction of the village.

“What is wrong? Why are keeping me out?” He asked.

“I do not wish to share my feelings right now. I have to sort through them. They are not for you.” I said blankly.

“Why do you stink of a poison?” he asked concerned.

I pulled the tunic away from my neck and showed him the healing wound where the mating mark was. His jaw dropped and I continued to walk. He forced me to stop.

“What is this?” he asked confused.

“I have made my choice; you are my mate unless you go away with Katashi. He had made his legitimate pup a bastard by mating me. I will not be drawn in. This war with Jing is because of his own behavior and not mine. To hell with him.” I said devoid of emotion.

“How do you even know?” he asked narrowing his eyes.

“Think about it Sheng. You and he used to bed everything that walked. He bedded Jing at some point and pupped her. Think about it. Why would she attack me all of a sudden? She has a link to his damn title and I became his whore! No wonder she killed my first pup, she was jealous.” I said yelling and drawing attention from the ningen.

“Have you even discussed this with him?” he asked calmly.

“You know. You know in your heart that what I say is true. You two were notorious for fucking anything and I mean anything. Both of you almost brought down your own land. Get away from me.” I snarled.

He looked at me dumbstruck because he could not deny the truth. I continued to walk away from him and to my aunt and uncle's house. I reached the home of Inuyasha and knocked on the door. Kagome answered and I entered and shut the door behind me. I handed her the Beads of Subjugation and went and sat down. She looked at me in total surprise and came and kneeled at my feet. I let go and started sobbing. She held me as I poured my soul out. Sheng wisely left me alone. The bleeding started shortly thereafter.
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I was in Akemi's futon with my feet up. My aunt had ordered me onto strict bed rest and I listened. She wrote my father and sent it by way of Inuyasha. I was in and out if sleep and I felt Sheng's presence against my mind several times but I would not acknowledge him. I could not believe that Naraku had been right. I had hoped that he was playing one of his evil tricks, it turned out that my own stupidity had done it. My father was at the home of his brother in two days. I heard him call my uncle an imbecile and Lord Asshole was thrown out too. He came to my side and sat next to my form.

“You are bleeding your Aunt informs me.” He stated.

“Hai. I want to go back to the Palace and I want the foreigners gone.” I said in a tortured whisper.

“Can you inform me as to why?” he asked.

“This is not our war and I am no one’s whore.” I snarled in a low tone.

He raised a silver brow at me and prompted to me to continue.

“I have recently discovered that Katashi had a pup by Jing. I do not know if there was subterfuge on her part but I am sure he must have known he pupped her. My own pup has therefore lost all rights to He Gang by order of birth. I will not let him use us to maintain his own Lordship.” I said in a tortured whisper.

“You have confirmed this?” he asked tightly.

“Hai through Sheng. I have much to explain and I beg my lord's forgiveness.” I said a tear sliding down my face.

“I have nothing to forgive. We will move you to the West as soon as you are stable. The Manchu will leave this land and never return.” He said thinly.

“Sheng is my mate by virtue of the bond that was formed through our telepathy. I have given him the choice of either standing by me or running away with his Lord.” I said tiredly.

“You mated in the Uppyr way did you not?” He asked

“Hai.”

“I should have allowed your mother train you better. I will speak to him myself.” He growled.

“Right now I wish to remain mated to Sheng in name only. I have removed the Lord of He Gang's mark from me. He will have no further ties to the West at all.” I said blankly.
The great and terrible Lord Sesshomaru put a hand on my cheek and made me look up at him.

“This Sesshomaru supports and stands behind his heir's decisions.” He said formally.

I looked up at him gratefully and he bowed and left me to my aunt. Uncle Inuyasha came in and sat down next to the futon.

“His mightiness has ordered that I am to guard you with my life or it is forfeit.” He said smiling.

“Uncle Yasha he is just being protective.”

“Naw wench, he's bein a dad.” He said grinning.
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There was uproar at the dissolving of my union with Katashi and he was forbidden to see me. It was not common in youkai society to dissolve any union. Sheng was threatened with his life if he left and he too was forbidden to see me. I was in Edo for another week and my father fetched me himself to the Western Palace. I was determined to finish this pregnancy out and get on with my life. I now knew why the Kamis had me seek out my father's old enemy. He showed me the way to free myself. I loved Katashi and I could have forgiven him and Jing but the fact he already had an heir that displaced our own pup was unforgivable. I was the daughter of a very powerful lord myself and a future ruler in my own right. My pups would be first no matter what.

For the next few months I avoided Sheng like the plague. He was suffering by association and I
just could not bring myself to be in the same room. I demanded that Akemi move to the Palace and she relented. I shared my apartments with her and we became closer. I confided the whole Naraku incident to her and we wondered if he did indeed perish. I believed he did because there was nothing on the dark hanyou and the jewel was in fact gone.
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The pups decided to arrive in late winter. I had been sitting with Akemi and Mayu when my water broke. I was mortified when it happened. Birthing was no easier for female youkai then it was ningen onna. Akemi and Mayu brought me to my futon and Mayu ran to my parent's chambers.

“My lord! Lord Sesshomaru!” she called.

He appeared and slid open the shoji door.

“Hai Mayu?” he asked.

“My lord the Lady Asuna has gone into labor.” She said bowing.

Augusta came up behind Sesshomaru and wrapped a dressing gown around herself and left her quarters. She sailed down the halls to her only girl's chambers and let herself in.

“Akemi when did her labor start?” she asked.

“Her water broke just a little while past Aunt Gusta.” Akemi answered.

My mother knelt by me and took my hand. I was having mild contractions that did not faze me too much yet.

“You are doing well?” she asked me.

“Hai.” I said.

“They will get harder my darling but follow your instincts.” She ordered.

“Hai.” I said clenching my teeth a little.

My father came to my door and knocked.

“Hai?” I called.

He came in and nodded to me. I nodded back and he exited. The males had very little to do with births and therefore my father showing himself was an honor.

“You need to rest as much as possible so you will have the strength to push later.” My mother informed me.

“Hai.” I responded.

The labor started out calm with little discomfort. I knew the stories that even birthing brought youkai to their knees. I opened my mind to Sheng to allow him to feel his pup. The surprise he felt and relief was almost overwhelming. I was gripped by a powerful pain and I sat up. My stomach clenched so tightly and pain gripped my lower back.

“Kami.” I gritted.

“Shhhh it will pass. Then prepare and it will come again.” My mother warned me.

I continued on with the contractions several minutes apart for quite awhile. I managed to rest a little and I honestly thought I would be lucky and this was the worst of it.
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I was screaming and was getting no relief between the pains. My eyes had bled red and I was going to need a new futon. My claws had lengthened and I had gouged the bedding. My mother was sitting me up and I would snarl and scream alternately.

“I want Sheng in here now.” I yelled as a contraction gripped me fiercely.

My mother nodded to Mayu and she left to bring Sheng to me. I gripped my mother's hand so tightly. I thought I might have broken it. She smiled at me sweetly and I growled.

“I will dismember him.” I snarled.

She laughed and I glared at her. She brushed my hair off of my face that had become drenched in sweat.

“Milady your mate is here.” Mayu said coming into view.

Sheng came to my side and I grabbed his hand and gripped it fiercely. My claws gouged the back of one hand and he winced at the pain. I panted for a moment and looked at him. My eyes were burning and cried out.

“Tell me you did not know that he had another pup, tell me the truth.” I cried out as another pain gripped me.

“I did not know. He was careless I know but he loves you.” He stated.

“It does not matter; what matters is that you did not lie to me about something so important.” I cried again.

The pains were coming on top of each other and I could not breathe through them. I had a horrendous pressure in my lower abdomen and my eyes widened.

“I have to push, Kami it hurts.” I almost screamed.

“Asuna listen to me. When the next one starts you need to push through your bottom dearest.” Mother said calmly.

“You do it.” I screamed at her.

“She threatened to dismember you earlier Sheng, I would step back.” Mother told my mate.

“No I will remove those parts that make him male!” I snarled.

Sheng's eyes widened a little and my mother laughed.

“I told Sesshomaru that he would never touch me again and that I would remove his so he could never find them again.” She said with a twinkle in her brown eyes.

I cried again and I gripped Sheng's hand tighter and bore down. My teeth were clenched so hard that I wondered if I broke a fang. I was swearing in my mind and Sheng tried to calm me and I snarled in his head.

“Kami it hurts. I would rather be stabbed.” I said bearing down again.

“I know darling. Just follow your instincts.” She urged me.

I felt blood in my hand and saw my claws had deepened the wounds in Sheng's hand.

“Would this be easier in my true form?” I asked.

“No my dear. If you wanted to change I guess you could but it will not lessen the pain.” She observed.

“I am sorry for hurting you.” I said to Sheng.

He nodded to me understanding my double meaning and he kissed my hand. Mayu looked up at me and Sheng.

“Do you wish to see the pup born?” Mayu asked Sheng.

He looked at me and I nodded. He moved to my legs and another pain gripped me.

“My Lady keep pushing. There will be a horrible pain as the head passes. Bear down my Lady.” She said instructing me.

My face was scrunched in concentration as I pushed with all my strength.

“Alright my lady, do not push for a moment. Reach down and feel your pup's head.” She instructed me.

I reached down and felt a lot of hair. Tears actually poured from eyes and I looked at Sheng. He looked up at me and his eyes shone.

“Alright push my lady.” She commanded and I did.

I felt the hot burning pain as the head passed and the shoulders passed. Mayu motioned for Sheng and he held a small fur blanket and all of sudden there was a wailing. I looked down and there was a tiny inu pup wiggling.

“My lady you have delivered a boy first.” She commented.

His hair was brown like his sires and he bore the markings of the House of the Moon. There was a tiny crescent moon on his forehead and striped on his wrists, face, and around his tiny hips. He was wailing and Mayu cut the cord that had tied him to me. He was wrapped in the blanket and brought to me.

“Hiroto.” I murmured against his tiny cheek.

I nuzzled his little neck and he calmed immediately. I handed him to my mother and she brought him to Sheng.

“You will bring him to Sesshomaru.” She commanded.

“Hai.” He said as he gingerly held Hiroto in his arms.

He lowered his head and inhaled his scent. He looked at me and looked truly happy. He took our son and went to present him to my father.

I looked at my mother and she smiled.

“He is perfect. Your body will give you a break at it prepares to birth the second pup.” She said gently.

“Hai. He is Sheng's son.” I whispered.

“Hai I can see that. He must carry his scent as well.” She said.

“Hai very strongly.” I said mesmerized.

“I like his name very much. Had you thought on it before?” she asked.

“No. It suits him though.” I said looking at my door.

“They will bring him back soon. You can either feed him yourself or we can find him a wet nurse.” She said smoothing back my hair.

“I will feed him myself.” I said.

“Good girl.” She said smiling.

I sat up straighter and the pains were starting again. I looked at her and mouthed `break'? My body was gearing up for the other birth. I motioned for some water and Mayu brought it to me. I sipped it and knew if I drank too much that I would end of vomiting. I felt a rush of wetness again and looked down between my bent legs.

“It is the second water my dear pay it no heed.” My mother said as Mayu started to change the area underneath me.

“I have to push.” I cried.

“No it never happens that quickly.” Mayu said in surprise.

“I have to push now.” I cried.

“Lady Augusta, do you think the pups are identical?” Mayu asked quickly.

“What, what do you mean?” I asked scared.

“They would have shared the same bag of water and there would not be much of a second labor.” She replied.

“Identical as in they are the same?” I asked shocked.

“It is not common amongst youkai but it does happen.” Mayu said.

“I have to push.” I cried.

“Oh my lady I see the head. This pup has brown hair also.” Mayu told me.

I looked at my mother shocked and I thought I had been certain that I carried different sired pups. That in of itself was rare but not unheard of either. I bore down and my mind screamed to Sheng. I felt his concern and I knew my father and he were both coming to my chambers.

“Alright my lady, I know you are tired but push down as hard as you can.” She exclaimed.

I bore down with all my reserved energy and screamed in pain as the burning sensation took place again.

“Kami it burns so bad.” I cried out softly.

My father and Sheng entered with Hiroto in his blanket. My father's eyes widened and looked at my mother. I saw her mouth identical to him. Sheng handed the first pup to my mother and he came and took my hands.

“Alright my lady. One more big push and this pup will be here.” She ordered me.

I reached down and felt the pup's head and I cried out a little more. I looked at Sheng and it hit him that these were his pups and his alone. He ended up with a stupid grin on his face and I wanted to slap him for smiling while I was in pain. I bore down again and I felt the pup slide out.

“He is perfect my lady. He looks identical to his big brother.” Mayu said with a huge smile.

I stared at my second son and he did indeed have the same markings as his twin brother. Both pups had an abundance of dark brown hair and citrine eyes that mirrored my own father.
They wrapped him in a similar fur blanket as Hiroto and they brought him to me. I held out my arms and nuzzled his neck. He was calmer and only mewling and he instantly calmed.

“Kazuo.” I whispered to him.

I handed him to my father, who then in turn scented him to memorize it and looked down tenderly at his grand pup. He actually smiled a little and then gave him to Sheng.

“You are cemented to this house and this pack. You belong to us.” Lord Sesshomaru said to my mate.

Sheng nodded and bowed a little. I put my hands out to have both of my pups. Hiroto and Kazuo were brought to me. I looked at them closely and started a continuous low growl that seemed to keep them content. I felt a large amount of yoki from both and I smiled gently. They were both taiyoukai and that reassured me. They looked identical and I was trying to discern any differences at all.

“They will need different colored gowns. Hiroto has a little more hair than Kazuo but that is all I see. Even their crests are in the same place.” I said astonished.

“My lady I will see to their clothing now.” Mayu said bowing.

“They are perfect.” Sheng whispered to me.

“Hai they are perfect.” I agreed.
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Sheng and I had talked at length about the past issues and we agreed to start anew. My futon had been replaced and my sons slept between me and my mate. Hiroto wore a tiny gown of dark blue and Kazuo wore an identical one of red. Sheng slept peacefully for the first time in three months. He had not been treated badly but he had not been allowed to see me. I had begged his forgiveness for my anger and feelings of betrayal. I looked up at my window and noticed a shadow that was not natural. I stared at it and got up quietly and went to it. I recognized the yoki and I stared in complete shock.

“Naraku.” I breathed.

Nothing was said and it disappeared. I stepped back and wondered at the occurrence. I wondered if it was the past or I had made it possible for him to survive after all.






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