InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ The Morning After ( Chapter 10 )

[ 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. No money is made on my part. All OCs are mine


The Morning After



“What does this mean?” Augusta said shaking the paper in her hand.

“She attacked Katashi and has disappeared.” Sesshomaru commented.

“I can read Sesshomaru, what I mean is that we have no idea where she is?” she snapped at her mate.

Lord Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes and clenched his fist. He had no idea where his heir was and the reports from Sheng were that she was severely injured. He had sent the Manchu Lord packing himself and used gentle persuasion to the Chinese inu so that he would not return; Tokijin still was stained with his blood. Fury overcame the Western Lord and the concern of father was weighing the Lord of the Inu. His mate was grating on his nerves as well; she was acting the role of mother perfectly.

“Augusta, every available resource and youkai is searching for her.” He said with clenched teeth.

“If it is all the same to you, I intend to look for her myself. She has been shutting Sheng and I both out and I am worried.” His mate declared.

He stared at her as though she had grown two heads and shook his head no. She came right up and stuck her face to his.

“Do not tell me no. She is my daughter too and she is suffering. For Kami sake Sesshomaru.” She admonished him.

“Do not speak as if this Sesshomaru does not wish for his heir to be found!” he snarled.

“Cut out the third person crap Sesshomaru. I have been mated to you for over a century and you
do not intimidate me. Remember to whom you speak.” She snapped back.

“You forget yourself.” He hissed.

“No it is you who forgets himself. Do you have any real clue what burdens that girl has been carrying? She tries to live up to some standard she thinks you would have of her and she feels like a failure. She feels unworthy of this Sesshomaru.” Augusta said in anger.

Sesshomaru stared at Augusta and was speechless. His mate had a hot temper but the worry in her features actually had him filled with dread.

“You think she was actually trying to attempt something as ridiculous as seppuku?” he asked his eyes widening a fraction.

“Do you really think with the training of the `Killing Perfection' that Katashi would have truly bested her?” she pointed out.

“We leave immediately.” He said standing abruptly.
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I stretched lazily on the futon and discovered Naraku still slept next to me. I peered at his neck and there were my fang marks starting to heal. His pale flesh was a perfect backdrop for the mark itself. I knew he must have bedded other female youkai but he obviously did not know all the subtleties of youkai mating. Each species was a little different but inu were pretty straight forward; mark your intended and they were yours. I wondered if he had been with ningen onna as well and my dwelling on past partners angered my primal self whilst my conscious mind cared not one bit. I sighed and he stirred.

“You slept next to me all night.” I observed.

“It felt right. Besides I was too exhausted to move.” He commented back.

“I will help you find a way of removing that.” I said pointing to the mark.

“I will do what I want and when I need your help I will ask.” He retorted.

“Fine. I am going home and you can do whatever to yourself that you like.” I said in anger as I stood.

“You are not leaving just yet my little inu.” He purred.

“And who are you that you think to command me?” I said narrowing my eyes.

“I was under the impression that you had marked me as your mate?” he said with a devilish grin.

“What are you up to?” I asked.

“Right now I am desiring you.” He said pulling me back down gently.

I lay on my back and he bent to kiss me but pulled back grinning then proceeded to slice through the bandages on my chest and abdomen. The wound in my chest had completely stitched back together and the one in my belly was on the mend.

“I am going to inject it with a bit more miasma.” He said smirking evilly.

“Thank you. I so love you enjoying my pain.” I said sarcastically.

“Not enjoying exactly but making you submit thrills me to no end.” He said snidely.

“You are a bastard.” I sneered.

“Hai I am. You marked me.” He laughed.

“You are punishing me.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Hai but you figured I would did you not?” He asked sarcastically.

“Get your business over with.” I snarled.

He sunk his claws around the wound and injected the miasma. I grimaced in pain but held steady. I glared at him and my eyes watered a little. I was going to end up rutting him to death or killing him. The latter was sounding highly appealing. I knew he loved me in a way; I was curious as to what exactly that meant in his mind but I did not feel like pushing him. He was still extremely powerful and had never really raised a hand against me. I fantasized about ways of hurting him physically but kept my face impassive. I looked at him disdainfully and he smirked.

“You need to vacate this castle, I do not wish for you to be found.” I said.

“Worried for me?” he asked incredulously.

“Go fall off a cliff.” I snapped at him.

“So you are not worried for me.” He stated.

“Your emotions are all over the board. Either you accept the situation or you do not. If you do not, I will help you get the mark removed.” I said exasperated.

“Why did I not mark you?” he asked narrowing his eyes.

“I am a taiyoukai and I most probably dampened the urge in you. Plus I am inu and you are mostly Tsuchigumo; the females are notorious for killing their mates.” I said smiling sweetly.

“Interesting theory.” He said.

“Shall I follow the lead of a Tsuchigumo female?” I said obnoxiously sweet.

“Shut your impertinent mouth.” He snapped.

“Make me.”

He pulled my hair so that I was looking at him and he brutally kissed me. I was going to lose my mind and never leave a futon with this male. I fought my desire and pulled myself away.

“Answer the damn question! Do you want it removed or not?” I snarled.

“No, I think I will keep it. It may be of use to me.” He retorted.

“You are impossible. You would use a mating mark to manipulate me?” I asked angry.

“Hai I would.” He answered honestly.

“Go to hell!” I yelled at him.

“You are not thinking clearly my inu. Things have taken on a very complicated but interesting edge; do you not agree?” he observed.

“I tried to have my old mate kill me, I am mated to his former advisor, and I made the colossal mistake of not controlling my beast. Complicated is not quite the word I would use for the situation. The icing on the proverbial cake is that you are the bitterest enemy of my family and you really could care less.” I stated irately.

“There are many possibilities to this little triangle and I did tell you I would get rid of my rival.” He stated matter of factly.

“Sheng is my consort you cannot just get rid of him.” I said growling.

“We shall see; I do not play well with others.” He stated.

“It will be you who will see. Do not think that I will roll over and let you hurt those I love.” I warned him.

“Mistake or no, I am now in your life. I can make myself into whatever I wish; remember that when I come for you.” He said haughtily.

“You actually think you could come strolling right into the Western Palace?” I asked laughing.

“Hai I can. I shall not harm your toy for now but make no mistake I will assert my claim on you.” He said in low tone.

“You would have no claim to the West. I am the heir and do not think I would not stop you if necessary.” I stated.

“I want no claim to the cursed West. I have claim to its heir.” He said smugly.

“This is profound lust. I could have sworn I felt love from you but I was obviously mistaken.” I said bitterly.

“How can I have any such notion what that emotion is?” he asked arching a brow.

“You are older than I, Naraku. You have hated therefore you can love.” I stated simply.

“I will feel whatever I want whenever I want. I do not need you telling me what I shall feel.” He commented.

“I tire of this conversation. I ask you please to hide yourself and make no trouble.” I asked.

“I shall abandon this castle as you have asked but as for not making trouble, that I cannot promise.” He answered.

“Why not?” I asked perplexed.

“Because I do not feel like it.” He stated in a snotty tone.

“I can see why you are detested.” I snapped.

“You are not any more pleasant inu.” He retorted.

“I am bathing and then I am leaving. I do sincerely thank you for your care of me.” I snorted.

“You are most welcome. I cannot have my pet die on me.” He said smiling with a smug expression.

“I hate you!” I sneered.

“No you do not but it would please me if you did.” He smiled.

Realization struck me like lightning and I looked at him like it was the first time I had laid eyes on him. I straightened myself and grabbed a kimono that he had provided. I proceeded to push the yukata off of my bare shoulders and pulled the navy colored kimono on. It came to my calves and was not a formal kimono that I detested. I saw him staring at me with a hungry look in his eyes and ignored him.

“I will find a spring closer to the West.” I said as I tied the obi.

“So you are leaving?” he asked.

“Yes. Guard yourself and I know I will see you again fairly soon.” I said unemotionally.

“I always do.” He commented.

“Good bye.” I said walking past him.

He did not follow me and I knew he was fighting himself too. It was Naraku that wanted me and not his ningen half. I found it ironic because his obsession with the miko slut had fueled him in becoming part youkai. I was following the stairs down that lead to the path out of the castle. I felt his presence and turned around.

“What now?” I asked arching a silver brow.

“I will be in Mount Hakurei-zan. You will come soon or I will come after you.” He said very bluntly.

“Excuse me?” I stared at him in disbelief.

“You come to me or I will come for you. Your choice.” He said leveling me a stare.

“Whatever.” I said walking away.

I moved forward and my mind was whirling. What had I done? It was evident that there was a fire between us but that went against every ounce of common sense and loyalty that I owed my family. I wanted him desperately but it truly did boggle my mind. I passed through his barrier without issue. I knew of a small lake a little more north and I made my way to it. I was glad it was getting warmer. I could handle extreme temperatures but was not overly thrilled with very cold baths.

My father would have had the army mobilized and looking for me by now. I had been a despondent idiot and needed to grow up. I stripped and dipped myself into the cool water and cursed. My belly wound was almost fully healed but it still smarted. I started scrubbing my skin to remove all trace and scent of my hanyou lover. I moved quickly and stared disdainfully at the shore. I really did not want to dress while still wet. I stared at a rock jutting out of the soil and stared at the shore. I moved to rock to sun myself and erected a barrier. I kept closed my eyes but searched the area for any auras. I did not feel any youkai so I relaxed. I was south of Edo but I would have to move soon to head home. I got down from the rock and went to my kimono. I felt a powerful aura and I grabbed my clothing and my fang.

“Damn it!” I cursed under my breath.

I did not recognize the aura and I managed to tie the obi. My barrier was in place and I looked up and saw a Tsushima Yamaneko youkai. He must have felt the barrier and come to investigate. He was far from home; Nagasaki was further to the south. I looked up at him and saw a pair of beautiful dark gold eyes. He studied me with his neko eyes and I wanted to curl my lip. He just stared at me and I grew antagonistic. He was tall and lithe like the rest of his species. He had fiery red-orange hair with stripes of white. His face was pale and he had spots around his forehead that went along his hairline.

“Who are you?” I asked tense.

“Who are you?” he asked in return

His voice was soft and deep and sent chills down my spine. I cocked my head to the side and stared him.

“I am Asuna.”

“You are an inu.” He stated.

“You are a neko.” I stated sarcastically.

“I am Daichi.” He said simply.

“Far from home neko.” I retorted.

“As are you inu.” He observed.

My eyes perused his form and he looked at me disdainfully. He wore a haori and matching hakama in a rich red and armor. His sleeves were edged in a leaf pattern. I recognized a son of the Southern lands. His feet were bare as he also had sharp claws on his feet. He wore a katana at his hip.

“I have a reason to be here, you on the other hand are just wandering. What does a neko from the south want this far north?” I asked carefully.

“You are from the West no doubt.” He perused my form.

Neko were usually secretive and kept away from other ningen and youkai. They were not the friendliest creatures.

“I am the heir to the Western Lands. I am Lord Sesshomaru's daughter.” I said.

“Well good to meet you. I am on my way.” He said backing away.

“You are dressed as a lord or noble. Who are you?” I asked curiously.

“Are you deaf? I told you my name.” he said irritated.

“You are getting defensive which means you do not want to be found or you are up to no good.” I said putting a hand to my fang.

“Calm yourself onna. I want no trouble.” He said in his soft voice.

I dropped my hand to my side and continued to look at him. The last time I got into a fight with a male, I ended up mated to him.

“You are obviously avoiding something if you come and look at a barrier. What ails you?” I asked.

He sighed and stared at me. He sat down and looked at me and nodded. I came closer to him and sat down.

“I am the second son to the Southern Lord Hikaru.” He said leaning back on his elbows.

“Ok so you are a noble. What brings you this far north then?” I asked.

“The South is under attack and I was to sent to find allies. We are a small and reclusive. My father felt I was the most diplomatic.” He said.

“Have you ever been out of the south before?” I asked curiously.

“Once.” He answered.

“You're lost.” I commented surprised.

“Hai.” He said embarrassed.

“How old are you?” I questioned.

“Seventy two summers.” He answered defensively.

“You're not even fully old enough to be searching for allies as you put it.” I said angry.

“I am not a kit.” He said in that soft voice.

“You are not fully grown either!” I said angrier.

“My father is ill and my brother is regent. I needed to be the one.” He said shrugging.

“You will come with me to the Western Palace. We inu do not allow our pups on such dangerous missions till they are older.” I said indignant.

“How old are you?” he said narrowing those slitted eyes.

“One hundred four summers. I am already mated and have bore pups of my own.” I said looking down as I stood.

“You are not that much older.” He muttered.

“I am also the heir. I have been trained as a warrior.” I said to him as he stood.

“I have been trained also inu. Do not patronize me.” He said narrowing his magnificent eyes.

“Fine. It would not do for someone to attack the South and another cardinal state not step in to help.” I said.

“You would aid us?” he asked surprised.

“I should not want your enemies to attack us next. I rather enjoy the peace the West enjoys.” I said.

“I thank you.” He said bowing.

“Stop. Just come with me so I do not feel guilty for leaving a youngling alone.” I replied.

“I am not that young inu.” He said annoyed.

“Take my hand and I will transport us.” I said.

“How?” he asked warily.

“I can transform into another form.” I said in amusement.

“Hai.” He said as he tentatively reached out his clawed hand.

I took it and transformed us into my energy sphere. We would be in the West in a matter of hours. I would use up a tremendous amount of yoki but I was really miffed at the Southern Court for sending such a young neko.
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I arrived in the West and reappeared in the court yard of the palace. My father was standing near the staircase and looked furious. I kept my face neutral and bowed formally.

“My Lord! This is Daichi and he is from the South. They are under attack and in need of assistance.” I said stoically.

“You will explain your actions to this Sesshomaru now!” he said narrowing his eyes dangerously.

“May I explain in private my Lord and after you have heard out the son of the Southern Lord?” I asked carefully.

“Have him brought to the study and you will come with this Sesshomaru now!” he commanded in an icy tone.

I looked at Daichi and nodded for him to follow Mayu; she had come up when my father was talking. The neko prince followed Mayu and I followed my father. We ended up going to his chambers. He went to his low table and motioned for me to sit as well.

“Where in Kamis name have you been? This whole house has been sick with worry that you were dead; including your mate!” He snarled.

“I allowed myself to become injured and I could not face you. I was wallowing in self pity and allowed my failed relationship to get to me.” I explained.

“You were dishonored, that is not failure. He has been dealt with and I told him that if ever set foot in the islands again that I would personally dispatch him to the Netherworld. Tokijin can be quite persuasive.” He said looking at me.

“I loved him my Lord. I hate myself that I let my hormones and primitive self rule my life. I stayed at an abandoned castle.” I explained.

“What castle exactly.” He asked.

“One of Naraku's old castles my Lord.” I said honestly.

“Not exactly where we would have looked for you.” He said impressed.

“Hai my Lord. I am sorry you were worried. I am well now.” I said looking away.

“I was worried. I am glad you are well. Now we have a young neko to attend.” He said standing.

I followed suit and followed him to his study. Daichi was sitting very quietly and stoically on a silk pillow.

“This is my sire and Lord of the West, Sesshomaru.” I said to Daichi.

The neko stood and bowed to my father and reseated him. My father looked at the young Tsushima Yamaneko.

“This Sesshomaru`s heir has said your sire is unwell.” My father said in his baritone.

“Hai Lord Sesshomaru. He was injured in an attack that originated from the peninsula.” Daichi said.

My father's eyes widened just a little and I was also surprised. There were many different youkai that hailed from the Korean Peninsula. Many were dangerous and posed a great threat.

“Your father, Hikaru is a great warrior. This Sesshomaru has seen him in battle.” My father
commented.

“Hai my Lord he is. We keep to ourselves and that leaves us vulnerable in times such as this.” The young neko said.

“We are inclined to aid the South. This Sesshomaru must insist that you stay here while he sends an envoy to the South.” My father stated.

“I thank you my Lord!” Daichi said gratefully.

“Asuna will show you guest chambers and your house shall be written immediately.” He said.

“Again many thanks Lord Sesshomaru.” He said gratefully.

My father nodded and I motioned Daichi to follow me. I let my yoki surge and pressed Sheng's mind. Daichi looked at me in surprise and I looked at him. Sheng felt my presence and I knew he was coming.

“You are a telepath?” I asked the neko.

“Hai most neko are, you are one as well?” he asked surprised.

“Hai. My mother is not inu.” I explained.

Sheng came from the family wing of the palace followed hotly by Akemi. He came up to me and grabbed me to him fiercely. He kissed me passionately. I was surprised and he pressed his body against mine.

“Ahem. Sorry cousins but you have an audience.” Akemi announced.

Sheng pulled away and looked at me furiously. Akemi pointed to Daichi and he looked uncomfortable.

“Who is that?” my cousin asked.

“I am Daichi.” He said in his soft voice.

“A neko?” Sheng asked surprised.

“Yes a neko. Come I will explain. Daichi this is my cousin Akemi. Akemi show him to the guest chambers.” I commanded.

“Hai cousin. You will spill your guts to me later.” She said bluntly.

I watched as they walked away and then I turned to Sheng.

“A neko? Where did you find him?” He asked curiously.

“I was cleaning my wounds when he came upon my barrier. He is only seventy two summers Sheng, hardly even old enough to be traveling by himself.” I said.

He dipped into my mind and he saw my memories of my encounter with Daichi. He tried to prod further but I kept that under wraps.

“What are you keeping from me?” he asked hurt.

“Seeing me act a fool. I taunted Katashi into attacking me.” I said warily.

“If he loved you then he would not have raised his blade near you!” he said furiously.

“Sheng I prompted it.” I said quietly.

“I do not care. He knows the truth about us and I told him it was I who forced myself on you in Shenyang.” He said.

“Sheng you did not have to do that.” I said tired.

“Hai I did. He should not have formed such a bad opinion about what I did by accident.” He said angrily.

“I am sorry I was acting the fool. How are the pups?” I asked.

“They are well. I will wring your neck if you ever try anything that moronic again!” he said lifting my chin.

“Hai.” I said in a whisper.

He kissed me again like he was thirsty man and I was water. He hands fisted in my silver hair.

“I love you!” I whispered against his mouth.

“Hai. I love you too.” He said.

“Come. I need to feel my skin against yours.” He said urgently.

“Sheng!” I said grinning.

“I wish to hold you is all for now.” He said with a small smile.

“Hai.” I said as I let him lead me away.
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I was brushing my hair when Akemi came in and flopped herself on my futon.

“Alright it is time to spill.” She demanded.

“I was wounded terribly. I was very sad about Katashi.” I said shrugging.
“How did you survive the wounds Asuna? You are immune to your own poison.” She asked slyly.

“Him alright!” I hissed quietly.

“He used his miasma?” she asked quietly.

“Hai.” I said.

“Did you do anything?” she asked nosily.

“I want you to rut and get out of my business.” I snapped.

“Well did you?” she asked

“Hai!” I snapped.

“Tell me about it later?” she begged.

“Hai!” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Daichi is beautiful.” She said changing the subject.

“Hai he is. He also younger than you.” I pointed out.

“By what twenty or so years?” she asked non plussed.

“What are you getting at?” I asked her.

“He looks interesting.” She remarked.

“He is neko. That is feline and you have canine in you.” I said surprised.

“So? I am also three quarters ningen and your point would be?” she asked raising a brow.

Her blue eyes were stormy and I could tell she was up to something.

“You do not want to untouched anymore do you?” I asked bluntly.

“Hai.” She said looking away.

“Akemi you are young by youkai standards.” I stated.

“Hai I know but I am not all youkai am I?” she said.

“You will age very slowly Akemi. You can possibly live a millennium.” I said.

“Hai I know this.” She stated tersely.

“You want to seduce the poor boy?” I asked.

“Hai Akemi Higurashi wants to seduce the poor neko boy.” She snapped.

“Alright. What do you want to know?” I said sitting back.

“I want you to bring us together somehow.” She said excitedly.

“Is it him you like or just things with Yuuto have not worked out?” I asked.

“He is different. I wish to know him and yes things with Yuuto did not work out. I think he realizes that I am more ningen than youkai and it bothered him I think.” She stated.

“He is a fool then.” I said annoyed with my general's brother.

“So will you help?” she asked.

“Hai. I believe you will only have a week or so.” I said.

“Fine.” She answered.

“Neko are not like inu Akemi.”

“I am counting on that.” She said smiling.

“I am sorry that you should face disrespect due to your heritage.” I commented.

“I am used to it Asuna. I just thought that here in the West it would be different.” She said looking down.

“I will see to it that it changes.” I said making her look at me.

“Thank you cousin.”

“I will fill you in on the other situation later ok?” I said.

“I will hold you to it. Do not be so stupid again ok? I do not want to lose the closest thing I have to a sister.” She said seriously.

“Alright cousin.” I said seriously.
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I was in the gardens pondering the recent turn of events and I felt the young neko's yoki. I looked up and he was in the only oak in the garden.

“Are you alright?” I asked surprised.

“There are many inu in the palace.” He said quietly.

“Are you hiding?” I asked amused.

“No. I like to be up high. It calms me.” He said looking away.

“It is alright to be afraid for your home but we will help you.” I said reassuringly.

“I am not afraid exactly. We are loners my Lady by nature. It suits us to remain reclusive.” He said.

“I prefer to be beneath a tree instead of in one. Would you come down?” I asked.

“Hai.” He said as he jumped down with ease.

“Do you remember the blue eyed onna that led you to your chambers?” I asked.

“Hai.” He said looking at me curiously.

“She is my first cousin. Her name is Lady Akemi and she wishes me to ask you to join us in the dojo.” I said.

“Why?” he asked in his soft voice.

“She has to befriend everyone; she wants to be sure that your stay with us is pleasant.” I said.

“Alright.” He said.

“This way.” I said motioning him to follow me.

I was noticing that our young neko was truly not unpleasant just painfully shy. I found it odd considering I came from a family of extroverts.

“Tell me of your family.” I said as we made our way to the dojo.

“I only have one brother. My mother died in battle a long time ago and my father has not remated.” He said thoughtfully.

“I see. Is your brother as shy as you are?” I asked lightly.

“No. He is very outgoing and tries to make me as such.” He stated looking away.

We arrived at the dojo and there was Sheng and Akemi. I could see a glint in my mate's eyes and knew Akemi had pulled him into our little plan also. Sheng was bare chested and my throat tightened at the magnificent sight. Akemi wore a very short kimono that showed off her well toned pale legs. It was a battle kimono that I recognized as one of mine. I glared at her and she smiled. Daichi looked uncomfortable but he watched us all.

“Sheng would you spar with Daichi while I take down my cocky cousin?” I asked my mate sweetly.

“As you wish my love.” He responded.

Akemi grabbed a sparring katana and threw me one as well. She struck fast and I was pleased with her progress with the blade. I had to block several times and she did sneak an attack that hit my belly.

“Damn.” I muttered as the wound opened and started to bleed.

“Asuna!” Sheng came forward.

“Do not worry. It is almost healed. It was a grievous wound but it is much better.” I stated.

“You two stay with Daichi and I shall be back after I have this rebound.” I stated.

“I am coming with you.” Sheng said firmly.

“Alright. Cousin entertain our guest please?” I asked her.

“Hai.” She said smiling.

“Come mate.” I said to Sheng.

I very subtly winked at Akemi and left with my mate.
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“I do bite my Lord.” Akemi said sweetly.

“I did not think you did my Lady but I really have no wish to spar at the moment.” Daichi said
with a small smile.

“What would you rather do?” she asked coming a little closer.

“I was enjoying the evening air in the lovely garden.” He said looking away.

“My mother used to tell me of her pet neko. He was very fat and very old but she said he enjoyed sunning himself up high. Is it the same with neko youkai?” she asked.

“I enjoy heights yes but to compare that to a domestic neko?” he said shaking his head.

“I have no experience with any form of neko my Lord; my father is an inu-hanyou.” She said laughing lightly.

“I thought I scented ningen in you but I had no wish to be rude.” He said quietly.

“It is not rude to want to learn about different persons. I am mostly ningen as my mother is a ningen miko.” She laughed again.

“A miko? She did not purify your youkai blood?” he asked surprised.

“She is a very powerful miko.” She winked at him.

Daichi looked away and then looked at the silver haired onna before him.

“Your father is brother to Lord Sesshomaru?” he asked.

“Hai. Actually half brother. My father's name is Inuyasha and his mother was a ningen hime.” She said sweetly.

“I recognize that name. Your family defeated the evil hanyou.” He said looking at her.

“Hai that would be us! Are you always so reserved or have I put you off by my questions?” She asked looking him directly in the eyes.

“I am reserved. I have no wish to be rude so I shall try a little harder.” He said smiling a little.

“I am obnoxious as I have been told by my older brothers. They are taijiyas in a village a ways from my home village of Edo.” She said conversationally.

“Taijiyas?” he asked surprised.

“Hai. They actually look ningen. I am the one that favors my father. I do have my mother's eyes.” She declared.

“They are lovely.” He said.

“Thank you! I have never seen neko eyes and I must say they are magnificent.” She said grinning.

He actually blushed at her words and turned to leave the dojo.

“Let me ask you, does my ningen blood make you angst?” she asked seriously.

“No. Should it?” he asked in return

“No it should not, allow me to join you wherever you are headed?” she asked sweetly.

“As you wish.” He said quietly.

He followed the path back to the garden and Akemi followed. He went the oak again and looked at his companion.

“Would you care to see the view from the tree?” he asked.

“Hai that would nice.” She smiled at him.

“I will have to hold onto you if you do not mind.” He said in his rich voice.

“Go ahead.” She said staring into his gold eyes.

He took a hold of her waist and gracefully jumped into the higher branches of the tree. He looked down at her for a moment and saw her joy of the view. He smiled gently and let go of her waist.

“Is it true that neko always land on their feet?” she asked playfully.

“Most times hai. I have fallen on my rear plenty though.” He said in a playful manner also.

“How about flat on your back.” She said laughing.

“No.” he smiled.

“What if I told you that I thought you were beautiful?” she asked arching a silver brow.

“I would say thank you.” He said shyly.

“Do neko youkai like for their ears to be scratched?” she said again in a playful tone.

“Some do.” He answered honestly.

“Am I scaring you with my obnoxiousness yet?” she asked laughing.

“No. I am enjoying my company.” He said lightly.

“What is the South like?” she asked.

“It is warmer there than here. The forests are a little more jungle like and our Palace is not as big as the Western one.” He replied.

“Do you purr?” she asked smiling big.

“Hai.” He said laughing too.

“Do you have a true form?” she asked.

“Hai.” He said smirking.

“I can imagine you as a giant neko rolling on his back and purring.” She whispered.

“I have yet to do it.” He said laughing.

“Is your tongue rough like a domestic neko?” she asked again.

He looked at her in surprise and stared at her.

“I have never sat down and compared but I would imagine it is so.” He said looking at her questioningly.

“May I feel it?” she asked in a sultry voice.

“How?” he asked surprised.

She motioned him with a beckoning finger and he leaned forward. She pressed her lips to his. His eyes widened in surprise and she ran her tongue along the seam of his lips. He opened his mouth to speak and entered his mouth with her own smooth organ. He groaned as she ran her tongue along his fangs and his own rough tongue. She reached up and ran her fingers lightly around his pointed elfin ear. He groaned more and pulled away after a several minutes. His pupils were full and round and he looked at her puzzled.

“Yes it is rough like a pet neko.” She said staring at his lips.

“I am sorry. I should have stopped that.” He said embarrassed.

“I want to kiss you again.” She said.

“I probably should not.” He replied nervously.

“Why? Do you think that my relatives will care that you kissed me?” She asked sweetly.

“They will not?” he asked surprised.

“Have you not noticed that the heir to the lands is female?” She said smiling.

“I had noticed.” He said confused.

She leaned forward again and ran her tongue along his ear. An obvious chill ran down his spine and he let out a moan. She took the point of it into her mouth and he groaned loudly. He sucked in his breath and closed his eyes.

“Does that please you?” she whispered.

“Hai.” He responded.

“I will not overload you.” She said pulling away.

“I do not understand.” He said searching her face.

“I desire you; but I will not overload your senses. I am used to getting what I want.” She said again staring at his mouth.

“I will leave you to enjoy the scenery.” She said pulling away.

He looked bewildered and did not stop her. She climbed down the ancient oak and smiled the whole way.
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Akemi and I were lying in a field outside of the palace; we stared at the stars.

“Now you must tell what happened with Naraku.” She demanded.

“We were in the middle of an amazing rut when my beast came to the surface.” I said sighing.

“And???” she prompted.

“I marked him.” I said quietly.

“I was wondering how long it would take.” She commented.

“You figured I would?” I asked surprised.

“Hai. You tell me how intense the sex is and how you two try and kill each other half the time. To me it is obvious you two are totally infatuated with each other.” She observed.

“No.” I said in denial.

“Hai tis true.” She said laughing.

“What am I to do?” I asked in disgust with myself.

“Roll with the punches as my mother would say.” She said.

“What of your little visit with the neko?” I asked curiously.

“I think he is as untouched as I am. I kissed him and he obviously enjoyed it but did not seem to think beyond that.” She commented smiling.

“I would imagine that is the case.” I said.

“The thing is I can tell there is much feeling simmering below the surface. I can only imagine
what an amazing lover he would be.” She said sighing.

“I think by working on him in small bits is a good idea. You will stoke the fire and he will think of nothing but you.” I said smiling.

“You think?” she asked.

“Hai. You are a beautiful onna.” I said smiling.

“I just want to feel something besides nothing.” She said sadly.

“I am sorry you have been treated badly.” I said angrily.

“It is not your fault. Ningen still look at me as though I am a half breed and youkai look at me as if I am dirty. Forget the fact I have much spiritual power and some yoki.” She said sadly.

“I feel as if I am a half breed as well at times too. I have instincts that are inu and I am finding that the uppyr instincts are as strong.” I said shrugging.

“Do you think either one of us will ever feel like we totally belong?” she asked me.

“I think it is our job to see that we make a place for ourselves cousin. I am still working on it but you should work on that delicious neko and feed me details.” I said lightly.

“Hai I will.” She laughed.

“Remember neko like to be stroked and touched more than even inu.” I said winking at her.

“Thanks for the advice.” She said getting up.

“Are you going back on the prowl?” I asked.

“Oh hai. I am going to make him squirm.” She said smiling.

I laughed at her exuberance and continued to lie in the field and wondered what Naraku was doing.
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Akemi knocked on the shoji screen door and a come in was heard. She entered the neko prince's chambers and he stared up at her from his futon in surprise. He was reading a letter and was laid out in only his red hakama. His chest was sculpted and his abdomen chiseled. His hips were narrow and small tan-orange spots ran down his sides. He started to get up and she raised her hand to stop him.

“I did not mean to bother you. I was wondering if you were shown where the hot spring was located.” She asked.

“I had not inquired but it would be good to have the information.” He said evenly.

“Would you like me to show you?” she asked.

“Hai.” He said standing.

His movements were all graceful and she stared at him for just a second and motioned for him to follow. He went to grab a kosode but she shook her head.

“You are fine. It is truly not far.” She said in a husky voice.

He nodded and he seemed confused at her again but kept quiet. As they walked down the hall she noticed she could not hear him move.

“I had not realized that you hardly make any kind of noise. My hearing is more acute than that of a normal ningen.” She said over her shoulder.

“It is normal for me.” He said shyly.

“Are you always so shy?” she asked.

“I am. I am just reserved. I take after my mother in that way.” He said in his quiet voice.

“We are here.” She said pointing to the door.

She slid it open and stepped inside. The room was steamy from the hot water and there were drying cloths and spare yukata lying near the spring. There were baskets of bathing herbs and soaps.

“This is the family's private hot spring but my Lord Sesshomaru has stated that you may have use of it while you are here.” She said staring at him.

“I am thankful.” He said bowing.

“Did I put you off earlier when I kissed you?” she asked bluntly.

“No, I am just not used to it here.” He said in his soft voice.

Akemi moved closer and noticed that a fine sheen of sweat was forming on his chest. She ran a finger along his jaw and his eyes widened. He stared at her movements as if gauging if he should bolt. She reached up and ran her fingers through his unbelievably soft hair. His breathing was coming just a little faster as she ran feather light touches along his hair, jaw, and ears.

“Do you wish me to stop?” she asked whispering.

“No.” he said breathing heavily.

“Does this feel pleasant to you?” she asked in a whisper again.

“Hai.” He moaned as he closed his golden eyes.

She leaned in and brushed her lips lightly against his neck and his hands and razor sharp claws flexed.

“You can tell me to stop when you are uncomfortable.” She said against his ear.

“I do not want you to stop.” He groaned.

She ran her hands up his arms and just touched him lightly. She skimmed her thumbs across his flat nipples and his breathing was becoming harsh. His eyes snapped open and his pupils were mere slits.

“I will stop if this displeases you.” She said softly.

“Not displeasing, I want to touch you in return but I should not.” He breathed out.

“Why should you not touch me?” she asked.

“I am honorable and I need to control myself.” He said stepping back.

She did not pursue it further and gave him a hungry look. He bowed to her and she grabbed his arm softly.

“Might I bother you for one last thing?” She asked.

“Hai.” He answered.

“Kiss me.” She demanded in a whisper.

“I should not.” He said staring at her mouth.

“Please.” She asked him faintly.

He pressed his lips against hers in what he intended as a quick peck. She latched onto his lips and it was a sensual slide of touch. She sucked his lower lip and he growled lightly. His hands were to the sides of her face as his raspy tongue invaded her mouth. A jolt of molten desire coursed through Akemi and she whined in pleasure as his tongue mated hers. She wrapped her arms around his back and fisted her hands in his long hair. She felt the vibrations from his chest and deepened the kiss further. He finally had to pull away to breathe and she closed her eyes as her heart beat wildly in her chest.

“I must go.” Daichi said gently.

“Why?” she asked.

“I have no wish to dishonor myself or you.” He said looking away.

“Dishonor?” she asked in disbelief.

“Hai.” He said breathing heavily.

“Do you want to touch me?” she asked tersely.

“Hai I do. My mind is racing and Kami knows that I want to.” He said defensively.

She reached down and grabbed his hand. She put it to an ample breast and he started to breathe harshly again.

“Then shut up and touch me.” She demanded.

She still had on the short kimono and it was made of a heavier silk. His hand cupped her breast and he ran a thumb across the nipple. She moaned loudly and brought his other hand to her other neglected globe. More jolts of pleasure ran through her body at his touch and she kissed him again. It was a fevered affair and he pressed his body against hers. His body was betraying him and responded to the touches and kisses. She had to pull away to breathe and he pressed his forehead to hers.

“I have to stop. I am losing control of myself.” He said jerking away from her.

“Why can you not lose control?” she asked fiercely.

“You are not full blooded youkai and I could hurt you.” He said with his eyes pleading for her understanding.

“What is it that scares you?” she asked in anger.

“I am neko and not inu. There are differences my Lady.” He said moving to leave.

“Are you afraid that I could not handle your claws? Look at my own hands, I have claws.” She said holding up her hands.

“Please let us just be friends.” He whispered.

“You want me, I can feel it.” She snapped.

“Hai I do! Who would not want the attentions of such a beautiful creature?” he asked in a pained voice.

“Go then. I do not wish to force myself on anyone.” She said angry.

He sighed but left the hot spring. She stared after him and kicked an errant yukata.
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“What are the differences?” she whined to me.
“I would have to find out. Technically it is possible to rut with a neko. Maybe there is a slight physiological difference?” I offered.

“He wanted me Asuna, I could feel it!” she whined again.

“Come let us speak with the healer.” I offered again.

“Alright. He is rejecting the idea because he says he will hurt me.” She said exasperated.

“Wait a minute. Sheng would know.” I said grinning.

“Ok. Let us find your mate.” She said.

I linked with Sheng and found him in the dojo with my father. My sire and mate had become friends and that pleased me. My father respected Sheng's overzealous nature when it came to me and my mate was just in awe of my sire.

-Why would a neko refuse to mate out of its species? - I thought to him.

I could see him stop and burst out laughing. My father knew I must be speaking telepathically with Sheng and waited patiently.

-Male neko are equipped a little differently than the rest of the youkai world my love! - he thought back with a laugh in my head.

-Explain! - I demanded in thought.

-Their genitalia has shall we say small barbs on it. - he thought in an amused tone.

-Really? - I asked surprised.

-Hai. It can illicit either great passion or pain from what I have heard. A female would have to be very well prepared. - he thought laughing again.

-I am glad my ignorance is your amusement! - I snapped in his head.

-I love that you are ignorant in this topic and wish our dear cousin luck! - he laughed again.

-Keep your counsel on this please. - I asked in his mind.

-I promise. - he thought.

“He says that their private areas are equipped with barbs as he put it.” I said nonchalantly.

“I imagine that with a female of their species it has to do with getting a female pregnant.” She thought out loud.

“That would be a good assumption; he also said a female would have to be very well prepared.” I replied.

“Hmm. I will have to think on this. I only have a few days before an answer is received from his lands.” She said.

“I have found the most direct route usually yields the best results.” I said shrugging.

“I guess that is what I will have to do.” She said smiling.

I knew my cousin's single mindedness would yield her the results she wished and present her with ones she had not anticipated. I knew because it was my own behavior.



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