InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ The Koumori and Kiang-shi ( Chapter 12 )

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

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




The Koumori and Kiang-shi



My mother's face was stunned and I felt shame at my actions. I looked into her eyes and I could see her forgiveness.

“I have no idea how he managed to survive a combined attack of Tetsaiga and Bakusaiga.” She said shaking her head.

“He made a wish on that damn jewel.” I said flatly.

“What was his wish?” she asked gently.

“To stay alive and see me again.” I said ashamed.

“How?” she asked surprised.

“I can project.” I said.

“You can astral project?” she asked stunned.

“Hai. I assumed you could.” I said shrugging.

“No my dear girl, I cannot.” She said in shock.

“I saw him in a dream and I continued to see him in my dreams and we struck up a friendship of sorts.” I admitted.

“How did you know he was real?” she asked.

“He told me so.” I said shrugging again.

She pondered my words and continued to shake her head.

“I meant no betrayal Mother. I needed his point of view if you will. I needed to defeat Jing and I thought another shape shifter could provide me that insight.” I said.

“Know thy enemy.” She stated.

“Hai. He kept his word to me and more and I told him to survive he would have to give up the Shikon no Tama. He did not listen and I went back and secreted the jewel away.” I whispered.

“You caused him to go into hiding. He had to scramble to find it and he used me for it.” She said.

“I am so sorry.” I said looking down in shame.

“Daughter, you do not understand. It had to happen that way in order for him to need me in the first place. If that had not happened I would never had met Sesshomaru. Fate has used him and you to make sure things were in balance. If you had not stolen the jewel from him then you would not be here.” She stated in awe.

“I wondered at the ability to see him.” I said in surprise.

“What sort of relationship do you share now?” she asked bluntly.

“He has become my lover.” I admitted.

“I see.” She answered.

“His yoki and mine mix like Sheng and I do. I have to initiate it with Sheng but it just happens with Naraku.” I said apprehensively.

“Have you had a heat since the birth of the pups?” she asked urgently.

“I am entering one now.” I said concerned.

“Have you rutted with him since your cycle began?” she asked.

“Hai. Although he did not finish.” I stated nervously.

“It does not matter. You will bear him a pup of immense power. You have more uppyr powers than you do inu youkai. I had not realized the extent of that power. Powers like yours only occurs once in a millennium Asuna. I am considered powerful amongst my people but you are more so. If my family were to realize the extent of your abilities they would try and force you to Russia.” She told me.

“Oh Kami. I am in trouble.” I said widening my eyes.

“You will have to be careful. This pup you will bear is going to rival your own power and that of your father's.” she stated.

“I cannot bear this pup Mother.” I said in horror.

“Asuna you would not consider such a thing!” she admonished me.

“Do you see that if Naraku were to turn against me he could use this pup as a way in?” I said truly frightened.

“How does he feel about you?” she asked.

“He loves me. The ningen part cannot stand me.” I said clenching my claws.

“You attract powerful youkai my dear. This is more than what you should endure but endure it you will.” She said putting a hand on my shoulder.

“I cannot do this to Sheng. I will not.” I said angry.

“Asuna we can find a solution to the problem but not by ending it.” She declared.

“Do I have to worry about Russian youkai coveting my womb too?” I asked sarcastically.

“Hai. We have to keep your powers under wraps.” She said matter of factly.

“Oh hai I can do that. I must never see Naraku again.” I stated in utter frustration.

“I did not say that.” She said sweetly.

“I care not if I am powerful. I care for my family.” I said sitting by her.

“I know. You demonstrated that today. I would never have fed off of you if you had not offered yourself so selflessly to save us.” She said lifting my chin.

“Why did you want another pup?” I asked.

“Your father wanted a larger family than what I could give him. We kept trying and met with tragedy. Finally he refused to even consider it and I have been begging him for years. He relented because I said it would be different. After Yoshiro was born I had many more losses. You have given me such a gift.” She said with tears in her eyes.

“I give you a gift and myself a nightmare.” I said bitterly.

“I will help you figure this thing out. I do ask that I meet with the hanyou again.” She stated.

“No.” I said flatly.

“I have the right to thank him for my pup's life!” she demanded.

“Do not dredge the past then. He is not quite the same.” I said sighing.

“Everything happens for a reason.” She said smiling.
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My mother insisted we go sooner rather than later and was up and around the very next day. My father was overly protective but she laughed it off. He looked at me and I could tell he was happy to have the audacious mate back. They treated me as if I was a hero and I felt my shame mounting. If I was pupped I could not tell. I was not sick whatsoever and I was delighted.
I took her to Mount Hakurei-zan and I had her follow me inside the cavern. She had me mask her and I hated to deceive Naraku, he could be very volatile. I could sense his presence and I waited. I wondered if he changed form when I was not around and I wondered what he did in his time. My mother waited in the shadows and he came up behind me.

“I did not expect to see you so soon.” He purred.

“We are not alone.” I said quietly.

He looked at me in anger and my mother stepped out. His eyes widened a fraction and then narrowed them.

“Are you intending to inform your mutt of a mate that I live?” he snarled.

“I am here to thank you.” She said in her sweet way.

“What?” he asked in total surprise.

“It is because of you that my pup has a chance at life. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I also know you nursed Asuna back to health after her unfortunate incident with the Chinese bastard.” She said bowing to him.

I was shocked to see her doing such and looked at the hanyou.

“You're welcome.” He answered.

His response surprised me as well and I wondered if this thing would work out after all.

“I am famished daughter and I am going to hunt for my dinner.” She said turning to leave.

“I will join you. Father would be most displeased if I allowed you out by yourself.” I said concerned.

“My dear, when have I ever allowed your father to dictate my every move?” she said laughing.

Naraku snorted in laughter and I gave her an evil glare.

“Much needs to be discussed. Shall I catch you a deer as well?” she asked nicely.

“Hai.” I said as she left me and him together.

“Before you start giving me hell, she could scent your miasma. What I did worked and she is eternally grateful. So much so that my father and uncle will never learn of your existence from her.” I said in a tired voice.

“You smell different.” He said off topic.

“What?” I asked him.

“Your scent has changed.” He retorted.

“What does that matter? You are not angry?” I asked in irritation.

“What can I do? Why has your scent changed?” he asked me.

“You are impossible!” I said growling.

“Answer my question.” He demanded.

“No.” I said walking away from him.

He was getting angry and I dared him with a look.

“Answer me.” He said grabbing my shoulders.

“No.” I said firmly.

“Are you ill again?” he demanded.

“No.” I said tersely.

“You will tell me now.” He growled low in his throat.

“Must we always fight or threaten? I am tired and I have bared my soul to my mother.” I said.

“Something is off in you and I would know what it is.” He demanded.

“It is of no consequence and it will not burden you.” I said in a very tired voice.

“I thought that we had moved beyond this.” He growled.

“My life is changing faster than I care for it to. I have found out that I have been fate's toy and I need to rid the Southern Lands of a major threat.” I said shrugging.

“You still refuse to answer as to your health?” he asked.

“Hai.” I said.

“Do I deserve less than that Chinese inu?” he demanded.

“That is not fair.” I said in anger.

“Then answer the fucking question!” he snarled.

I had never heard him curse and I looked at him. I could not gauge his mood and I wanted to scream.

“Fine. You asked. I am pupped.” I said sourly.

“What? Well I see you have been busy.” He said nastily.

“Shut your mouth.” I snapped.

“I will say what I will.” He said getting into my face.

“I carry your progeny you pompous ass.” I snapped.

“Liar!” he hissed.

“I do not lie. Scent closer and you shall know the truth,” I hissed back.

He stuck his nose into the crook of my neck and his eyes widened in shock.

“Hai you realize that I have whored myself to you.” I said angry.

“I do not understand. I have been careful of you.” He said.

“The last two times you and I have rutted our yoki mixed. I do not understand it myself. It has created a pup. I do not need this right now and neither do you.” I stated miserably.

“What is to be done?” he asked.

“I care not at the moment.” I said shrugging.

“You would care if it was his.” He said angrily.

“I will not feed this jealousy. I have things that need doing and this is the last thing I needed.” I cried.

“You may have only known me a year of your life but it has been over a century for me, how do you think this feels when I realize that you do not want this part of me?” he said in contempt.

“I still do not completely trust you as you do not trust me. We have both agreed that the chemistry has been explosive but you would not hesitate to stab me in the back if it suited you or whatever half of you has it in for me that day.” I snarled.

“I cannot convince you of my feeling for you. I grow sick of these games.” He snapped.

“Who plays games with whom? You are the master. Admit it you do not want this any more than I.” I cried.

“I will not admit to a lie.” He growled.

“Even yesterday you were still pushing me away, you will not tell me why the ningen half of you hate me so and I am to be glad of bearing your pup? Excuse me I am not!” I said in a temper.

“You have been the one constant this past century for me. I have never experienced such things.
Would it surprise you that my intensity of emotion makes me angry? Before I saw you that first time; I was sure of everything. I was sure of my place in the world and my power. Now I cannot touch you enough or feel you enough. That is why there is hatred. I am weak because of you.” He stated.

“I will not be accused of making you weak. Love is supposed to make one strong. I have the example of my parents' union and it is beautiful. I will not be hated because you fell in love with me. I did not ask for this and I will not continue to be punished by you for the inconvenience of loving me. If it is such a terrible thing then let us leave it.” I said in turmoil.

“Hai maybe we should. I cannot change everything I am for a mere onna.” He said cruelly.
My heart twisted again at his words and I stood up straighter. My eyes were emotionless and I stared back at him cruelly.

“I refuse to change myself for a mere hanyou.” I said.

“Deceitful bitch.” He snarled viciously.

“Who is the liar? I have never asked you to change your ways for me. I have spoken the truth of what I would do if you harmed those that I loved.” I stated flatly.

“Go and never show yourself to me again.” He said in a threatening tone.

“Hai there you go. Would you kill me? I think you would. You would kill that part of yourself that you say you want?” I asked in a hateful voice.

“Why should I care what happens if you do not?” he retorted.

“You should not. I am very sorry for interfering in your life; I had no right to play a Kami. The least I can do is do as you ask and spare you my awful presence.” I said bitterly.

“Spare me your theatrics.” He snapped distancing himself.

“What was yesterday? You tell me that.” I said coming closer to him.

“Stopping this from happening. I am tired of wanting you.” He said with narrowed eyes.

“You have hurt me far worse than Katashi or Sheng put together.” I said to him.

He closed the distance and held my throat without squeezing. I was beyond caring what he did to me and it showed in my words. I loved this creature I knew, I had not seen it happening but there it was. I was trying to be realistic but I could not figure out why that hurt so damn much. The moment made me wish I was in the South killing something.

“Do not ever compare me to those inu again. I have done what I have done for very good reasons.” He said contemptuously.

“Let me go. I am hungry and have no wish to argue further. I will honor the request and never seek your company again.” I said closing my eyes.

He let go of my throat and I walked away. I needed to separate myself from him anyway. I intended to hide myself for a little while and give into the pain in my heart and cry. I wished I was anybody else but me. I wished that I was nobody and therefore my behaviors would not have ramifications. My damanable feelings had led to one of the purest ways of making a pup. The intensity was there and so was the power. I went further into the forest and found a stream. I lay down beneath a tree and produced a powerful barrier. I allowed my feelings out in the form of the sobbing that overcame me. I did not know how long I was there and things were quiet I realized. The animals should have started up their various songs again. I stretched my awareness and felt many auras. I was surrounded and barrier or no I was in trouble.
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A creature moved forward and its ears were larger than that of a normal youkai. Its eyes were large and very black. Its claw was attached to a large membrane thin wing that was attached to its body. Its hair and fur was a very soft brown. It looked at me like I was dinner and I drew my fang. I saw hunger in its eyes and the damn thing passed right through my barrier.

“Holy hell!” I muttered.

I channeled my yoki and knocked the damn thing away from me. I let the Dakkasou come to the tips of my claws and threw a small poison ball at one I presumed to be a female. More were coming at me and I realized my best chance was to change form and overpower them. They had moved further north and I had been here playing argue with the lover.

“Damn it all!” I cursed as one bit my arm.

They were pack hunters and most certainly blood drinkers. I hoped my mother had enough sense to get away and I changed to my true form. The sheer amount of yoki overpowered three that had moved in close. I was not far from Naraku and the bastard was going to have to forgive my intrusion but self preservation won out. I ran through the bat youkai and several had moved quickly and had latched onto my fur. I howled when their fangs pierced my skin and I let my acidic saliva burn two. The screeched loudly and I knew it must be communication. There were ten more that appeared and I jumped up and over them. I had various bites and the wounds burned like hell. I made it to Mount Hakurei-zan and quickly changed form.

“Naraku!” I called loudly.

I could feel his aura coming from deeper within the cave and I was thrown against the cavern opening and my wrist was bitten into and another appeared quickly and bit into the juncture of my elbow. I could not tell how intelligent they were but as pack hunters they were efficient. They would outnumber their victim and devour them as a whole, as individuals they were weak. I felt one that was drinking from my wrist forcefully pulled away and the action ripped my skin. I howled in pain but I heard a sickening thud against the rock wall. The next one was grabbed by the throat and I could see Naraku inject the thing was copious amounts of miasma. He erected a barrier and I looked at him in surprise.

“They walked straight through mine.” I said as I stood.

“What?” he asked surprised.

“Hai.” I confirmed.

He pulled me to him and he made us disappear into a cloud of his poison. I was bleeding from the various nasty bites but my concern was for my mother. I looked at Naraku and I looked around. We were near the mountain and in the surrounding forest. I saw her as she was feeding off of one the disgusting things. She looked up and came to me.

“You are hurt.” She observed.

“I will be fine. We must get home and get a move on to the south. They have moved this far north in search of what?” I asked.

“I would imagine more powerful food.” Naraku pointed out.

We all felt the swarm before it was seen.

“For Kami sake!” my estranged lover cursed.

“No Kami.” A voice was heard.

Naraku turned and narrowed his eyes at a very powerful looking koumori youkai.

“Who are you?” I asked angrily.

“I am Kyung-Sam.” He said staring at me.

I could feel Naraku's yoki rising and wondered if he would change form.

-Get behind me now! - He ordered in my head.

I pulled my mother to me and got behind him. He did indeed change form and the infamous tentacles erupted from his person. He was going to throw off the koumori and allow us to escape.

-You are coming with us! - I demanded in his mind.

-I will meet you at my castle in the north! - He thought back quickly.

I grabbed my mother again and changed into my energy sphere and we managed our escape.
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I took my mother to the West and it was determined that since they had moved this quickly up here that we would move the Southern Lord and his court into the West. Inuyasha, Akemi, and Daichi left that very afternoon to head to Nagasaki. My mother was fine and the effusion of youkai blood seemed to be helping her immensely. She had wiped out twenty or so by herself. I looked at her in awe and so did my father. I made Sheng take the pups to Edo and stay there with them. I had recently given him a fang forged from Totosai that he had been practicing channeling his yoki through. He was a taiyouki too; he had just never been trained. I had to get back to Naraku and I was going insane with worry. My mother had my father send me on a reconnaissance mission and it gave me the perfect excuse to look for the hanyou.
I moved with my yoki cloud and scanned the land underneath for the enemy. I could not sense them and I made my way north to his castle there. I warily searched the horizon for any of the vermin because they could easily fly. It took me less than a day to travel to the north that normally took well over two. I was pushing my own limits and I passed through the powerful barrier. He was here that much was certain. I went to the further most room in the castle and opened the shoji. He was in a corner and wounded terribly.

“Naraku!” I said urgently.

I crossed the room quickly and knelt by him. He looked up at me and sighed.

“I am sorry. I must get you cleaned up.” I said.

“I will heal.” He said jerking away from me.

“Do not do this now. I need you.” I cried.

“For what?” he snapped.

“I am going to clean the wounds.” I said standing.

I leaned down and helped him to stand. I saw the sheer number of bites and hated myself for leaving him. He stood straight and tried to pull away from me.

“Do not please.” I said staring at him.

“Clear your conscience and then leave.” He snapped.
I leaned forward and kissed him with my repressed and savagely raw feelings. I was weak when it came to him and at this moment I did not care. I took his hand and pressed it to my stomach. I reached up and held the sides of his face and his tongue slipped into my mouth to taste me. I had to breathe and I pressed my forehead to his.
“I am frightened. I wish no harm to come to you because I am to bear you a pup.” I said barely audible.

“I have been caring for myself a long time. Danger is not new to me. Besides you have eloquently reminded me that I have a knack for causing myself mischief and I always manage to get out of it.”

“I lied at the mountain. There is so much danger for you and this pup, I was afraid.” I cried softly.

“I do not know how to react exactly to this news but I wish for it.” He murmured against my skin.

My hands tangled in his ebony hair and I sighed when he lowered his nose to my neck.

“I will help you clean your wounds and set up your futon.” I said leading him to the spring.

This castle, the hot spring had been incorporated into the design and it was more like the West's own. I quickly divested him of his attire. My hands skimmed over the various bites and grew angrier at the koumori. He slipped into the steaming water and hissed at the pain. I grabbed the soap and herb basket and quickly stripped out of my own attire and set to work of washing the bites. I looked into his eyes and they had changed to dark brown. I looked at him in surprise.

“I am hanyou am I not?” he asked of me.

“You are choosing now as your time of weakness?” I asked.

“Hai.” He answered as I washed the wounds.

I got a predatory gleam in my eyes and I knew he would not be able to scent my intentions. I was going to attempt to heal him through a joining and overcome him with my yoki. I straddled his hips and lifted a hand and saw only blunt finger nails. I looked down at him and he eyed my responses. I drew a finger into my mouth and swirled my tongue around it. He continued to eye me and decided to enjoy his weakness. I put my hand behind his head and gently pulled his head forward and he licked a nipple into his hot mouth. I sucked in my breath and gently raked my claws across his skin. He groaned and I pulled my nipple from his mouth and he growled lightly. I captured his lips and dominated him. I moved my lips to his jaw and nipped along until I reached his neck. I licked my way to his ear.

“I am going to give you my blood now.” I whispered in his ear.

“Hai.” He breathed.

I bit into my wrist and pressed it to his lips and he lapped at the wound. I closed my eyes and focused my yoki through and he groaned beneath me. I was surprised he could feel it in this form. I grasped his length and lowered myself onto him. He groaned and I kept my face neutral. I did not move and he stared at me with an impatient stare.

“Do not tease me Asuna.” He moaned.

“I am not teasing you. I have a purpose for this. I want you to trust me.” I said calmly.

“You are clenching me so damn tight.” He groaned.

“Go with it.” I said.

He nodded slowly and I released my yoki. I kept still and he stirred beneath me.

“Too much.” He groaned.

“No. Take it in.” I commanded.

He pressed his head against my chest and groaned loudly. Surges of yoki could regrow limbs then I was certain that surges of it could heal many wounds. I kept pressing more of it and his breathing was heavy.

“Asuna please ease it up.” He begged.

I watched in fascination as his wounds were healing slowly before my eyes. I decided to tease him just a little bit and clenched my muscles tighter and his blunt finger nails dug into my back. I pressed my yoki again and he started shaking under me. I was satisfied he was healed enough and I ground myself against him. I kept it agonizing slow and I knew he was going to lose it soon. I tried to urge his own yoki to the surface and it flared suddenly and mixed with my own again. I kept moving against him and he opened his eyes and his eyes were crimson. He held onto my hips and forcefully thrust up as I ground against him. My whole body felt like it was on fire, I could not contain the feelings and they washed over into Naraku.

“Kami.” He cried out.

We were truly one and we both reached a sort of culmination and fell against each other as our combined energies overcame us. Naraku had returned to his youkai state and I was astonished. He wrapped his arms around me and we started devouring each other. We feverishly pressed our bodies and mouths against the other. My lips were bruising from the onslaught and I cried out his name over and over.

I ended up laying my head on his shoulder and passing out. I felt his arms around me and it felt right. I awoke a little while later being held close to him and we were laying face to face on a futon. My eyes were heavy and again the joining of our bodies left us drained.

“You used your body to heal mine.” He whispered.

“You used your time to heal me.” I whispered back.

“We are designed for one another you realize.” He said quietly.

“Something happens when we are together, that is for sure.” I laughed lightly.

“You will need to return to the West and garner the forces against these creatures. I am going to go on my offensive against them myself.” He growled.

“How do you intend to do that?” I asked.

“I am a shape shifter after all. I can and will keep my identity unknown. You will know of my presence, I promise.” He said as he kissed my temple.

“Maybe you should appear as a bitch at court and try and take me to your bed.” I said giggling.

“Watch it, I may do that.” He joked back.

“What a scandal that would be.” I said with a smile.

“You will bear this pup will you not?” he asked seriously.

“Hai.” I answered.

He pulled me to him and held on. This was not the same creature that I had first met almost a year ago. I had no idea how to make this work but I knew that this had to work. I fell back asleep in his arms.
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I kept to the skies so that I would be able to see them clearer if they did try and swarm me again. I was uneasy and had a bad feeling about the area but I kept going. I was hoping that the neko court made it to the palace. Naraku was joining the fight against koumori and that excited me in a way. I hated that he had to hide himself away as much as he did but his own past was too sordid. I managed the trip of two days without incident. I entered the palace and I scented neko immediately. I went to my father's study and there was Daichi and Inuyasha; to their left stood two more neko. I knew the older one must be Hikaru and the other must be his eldest son Hiroshi. I cocked my head to one side and looked at my Southern equivalent. He was an impressive sight. He did not have the reddish orange hair and fur of his father and Daichi. His was gray and black and he had yellow eyes. He was almost as tall as my father and lean like the other neko. He wore the colors of the South and was heavily armored. My father looked up and motioned me in. I had taken great pains to mask my scents so as not to tip my hand of my condition.

“Lord Hikaru this is the West's heir; Lady Asuna.” My father introduced me.

“My lady!” Hikaru said bowing.

I bowed to him and then his sons. I looked at my Uncle and he looked back at me in a very calm manner, which surprised me.

“There is an area further north that gives me pause. I cannot say with all certainty but I believe that is one nest of the koumori.” I said to my father.

He nodded and I seated myself near my father's desk.

“This Sesshomaru's mate and heir ran afoul with the creatures not three days ago. They have insinuated themselves all over Japan.” He said to all.

“How do we go about ridding the islands of these vermin Lord Sesshomaru?” Hiroshi asked in a rich timbre like his younger brother.

“One nest at a time Lord Hiroshi.” My sire said flatly.

“Mother and I are able to sense them a little easier than most youkai. I believe if we strike them midday then we have a better chance of defeating them.” I stated.

“I would have you recall your mate from Edo.” my father said to me.

My mouth dropped open and I had to restrain a growl. I preferred the pups to be guarded by him or myself. I knew the reason he wanted Sheng here was because he too was uppyr. My uncle looked at me and I clenched my fist.

“Kagome will care for the pups `Suna. I will also have Isamu and Kanta guarding them.” He reassured me.

The scent of blood filled the room as my claws had pierced my palms and I nodded stiffly at my sire's request. My father looked at me in surprise but I did not question his authority. My uncle was going to have his taijiyas sons guarding my full blooded youkai pups. I motioned for a paper and quill and wrote to my mate to return to the palace. I knew he was going to be furious as well. I handed the letter to a servant and he took off.

“We will wait for Asuna's mate to return to the palace and then go on the offensive. Several nests have been identified and we will exterminate them.” My father stated to all.
There was a consensus and the neko all bowed and left the study. Inuyasha stood up and slowly left the study as well.

“Why do you disagree with Sheng returning?” My sire said pinning me with a stare.

“Not with him returning but leaving the pups in Edo.” I said.

“It cannot be helped Asuna, they are safer away from this part of the island.” He said flatly.

“I will arrange for their care my Lord. It makes me nervous that taijiyas will be helping to care for inu youkai pups. Sorry but that is how I feel.” I said firmly.

“Asuna, your aunt will care for them well.” He said irritated.

“I would prefer that youkai pups be protected by youkai in their own family.” I stated with conviction.

“See to their care but we have not a lot of time.” He said staring me down.

“Hai my lord!” I said bowing.

I would have to go to Edo and the quickest way there was through Naraku. He said he would not be far and I hoped he kept his word. I left the palace proper and went into the nearby forest. My mind was screaming for Naraku and he would have a headache if he was nearby. I was pulled behind a large tree and there was my hanyou lover. He looked annoyed at me for screaming in his head but I shook my head.

“I need to get to Edo and get my pups.” I said imploring him.

“What ails you?” He asked searching my face.

“My father has recalled Sheng and I will not leave my pups without powerful protection.” I said.

“Who would care for them?” he asked.

“My Aunt Kagome and her taijiya sons. I trust my aunt but the pups are already powerful and they could be targets.” I said worried.

“Who are you getting to watch them?” he asked lifting my chin.

“I was hoping that you would.” I said pleading with my eyes.

“Me? I do not know what baby inu even eat.” He said surprised.

“They eat what you eat silly. They have been weaned from milk for months now.” I laughed.

“Asuna I do not know.” He said.

“You are powerful enough to see to their care and you love me. Do it for me.” I implored him more.

“What are their names?” He asked quietly.

“Hiroto and Kazuo. They are identical twins.” I said smiling.

“Great now I will not be able to tell them apart.” He snorted.

“Hiroto is a little bigger than Kazuo. He has a much bigger appetite.” I grinned.

“Come let us get your puppies.” He said as if he was put out.

“Pups. Puppies are begotten by domestic inu.” I said jokingly.

“Hai. Alright let us go. I will do this once.” He said.

He gathered me into his arms and we disappeared into his miasma.
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We arrived in Inuyasha's Forest and I left to go to Inuyasha's home. I went inside and found Sheng on the floor with twins. They squealed when they saw me and I scooped them up and kissed them. Sheng was surprised and I looked at him. My heart twisted at seeing him and I smiled.

“Father has recalled you to the West. We need your abilities and I am going to take the pups to a secure location. No offense Aunt Kagome; these creatures seem to go after powerful youkai blood.” I said.

“No offense taken dear.” She said warmly.

“I will take the pups now and meet you back at the Palace soon.” I said as I kissed Sheng quickly.

“What is going on exactly?” he asked.

“The koumori have been making nests all over the island and we are going to flush them out.” I said.

“You think they would go after the pups?” he asked concerned.

“Hai I do.” I answered.

“Take them and I will see you soon.” He said kissing my cheek.

I had both of the boys in my arms and I left the house. I moved quickly and met up with Naraku.
He looked at them curiously and Hiroto started grabbing at Naraku's long hair. Kazuo looked at the hanyou and blew a raspberry at him.

“Curious little creatures.” He said staring at the boys.

“They are infants Naraku. They are innocent.” I said searching his face.

“Come let us go to my northern castle.” He said.

Hiroto grabbed a hold of his hair as I got closer. His chubby little hands were fisting the ebony strands. Naraku looked at me as he scented the pups.

“They smell similar to you now.” He said in awe.

“I carry their sibling. They would scent similarly.” I stated.

We disappeared into the miasma and reappeared at the castle. Both of the twins squealed in delight at the shift and power.

“They can change their forms. They are rambunctious and they will mock attack you.” I said kissing them both.

“I will need to bring in some servants.” He said letting Kazuo gnaw on a knuckle.

“Hai. They will sleep more often and several times a day in fact. You will need to feed them several times a day as well. They can be a little vicious during their dinner.” I said smiling.

“They will not kill me will they?” he asked intimidated.

“Just think of it as practice for our pup.” I said smirking.

“How long will you be you think?” he asked.

“When we flush out the nests closet to the palace, I will bring them home.” I said.

“You have no idea.” He sighed.

“I have no idea. Please you will care for them well?” I asked him.

“They will be taken care of as if they were mine.” He promised.

“Swear on our unborn pup.” I demanded.

“HAI!” he snapped.

“Alright then I leave them to your care.”
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I traveled cautiously south. By the time I reached the West; Sheng would have arrived. I kept a low profile to avoid undue attention to my yoki. I made it to the Western Lands without any trouble and felt it was too easy. The koumori were up to something and we needed to stop them. I went into the palace by a side gate and came upon the Southern heir. He was sparring with Daichi and they looked surprised at my sudden appearance.
“Please continue, I return after personal matters.” I said walking past.

“I thank you for the care of my younger brother Lady Asuna.” Hiroshi said after me.

I turned and faced them both and watched Daichi. He looked away under my scrutiny.

“It was not big matter my Lord. He was brave for venturing out for one so young.” I said.

“He is brave but terribly shy is you not little brother.” Hiroshi said.

“We cannot all have your charisma brother.” Daichi muttered.

“Have you seen Lady Akemi around Lord Daichi? I know you two have become friends.” I said distracting Daichi from his brother's attentions.

“Hai I saw her in the dojo with her father.” He said quietly.

“Inuyasha and Akemi in the dojo?” I asked surprised.

“Your cousin is terribly lovely.” Hiroshi said with a lecherous smile.

“Hai she is lovely and her father is terribly protective. He has been known to kill for inappropriate glances.” I said leveling the Southern heir with a glare.

“I meant no offense. She is truly more beautiful than most youkai females I have seen.” He commented.

“I leave you two to your sparring. By the way have you knowledge of my mate returning?” I asked arching a brow.

“I have not seen or heard my Lady.” Daichi said bowing.

I looked concerned at my mate's absence and left the neko brothers to their exercise. I entered the Great Hall and found several members of my family sitting and enjoying their noon meal. My father was not there but Osamu and Yoshiro were.

“Have you seen Sheng?” I asked.

Both of my brothers shook their heads and I got more worried. I opened myself to my mate mentally and felt barely anything. That could be distance or something far worse. Osamu stood and followed me to my father's study. I knocked on the shoji and he called for us to come.

“Sheng has not returned. He should be here by now Father.” I said as I walked into his study.

“You are correct. We shall see if he is close.” He said standing.

“Hai.” I said following him.

Osamu actually trailed behind me and I shot him a grateful look. He smiled a little and we continued on our way to the front gates. I pulsed my aura powerfully and my father looked at me in surprise. If Sheng was close by he would have felt it, so would anything else. I did not feel a flicker of anything from him and I looked back in almost a panic at my father.

“Come.” He commanded.

We exited the gates and went into the forest surrounding the palace and I kept myself open to his yoki. Osamu was with me and I was grateful to my twin. I was near panic and I had a hard time concentrating appropriately.

“Sheng.” I screamed.

My father put a hand on my shoulder and I looked up at him in panic. He tried to keep me calm and I jerked away. I was not angry at him, I was just panicking.

“Sheng!!!” I screamed.

I transformed into my true form and put my nose to the ground. My father backed up and gave me room. He drew Tokijin and my brother followed suit and transformed too. Both of us kept scenting the air and the ground. I was at a near frenzy and I knew my father felt my anguish. I was going to be eating koumori for dinner. I kept moving further into the forest and growling. I kept screaming his name with my mind and nothing; not a thing. I looked at my brother and whined terribly. There was no sign of Sheng. I continued to stay in my true form; I could cover more ground as a large inu. Osamu stuck with me and my father had taken to the skies on his yoki cloud. I was growling continuously but continued on into the night. The moon rose and I howled terribly. My father descended and put a clawed hand on my fore paw and I gently butted his head with my nose. He looked up and nodded. I lowered myself and put my head between my paws and whined.
“We will continue to look.” He said.

I barked lightly and he nodded again. Osamu had changed back to his humanoid form and I refused to. I was going to look as long as I had to.

“Suna, we may need to enlarge where we are searching. We are assuming the koumori have him.” He said.

-I understand that Brother but who else would take an inu youkai; they would have to be very stupid. - I thought in his head.

-I know sister. I cannot even scent an old scent. - He thought back.
I stood up and jerked my head to the east. My father nodded and so did Osamu. I put my nose close to the ground and tried to catch anything. I walked on and continued the same pattern. I was going to make it to Edo as soon as possible.
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I had searched for over a day and finally I scented Sheng's blood halfway between Edo and the West. I also scented the koumori leader; Kyung-Sam. I transformed into my humanoid self and followed the scent. I had a horrid feeling I was walking into a trap but I needed to find my mate. My mind opened to Sheng and I was assaulted with the feelings of nausea and utter contempt. He was alive! I followed the feelings; I had left my brother and father awhile back. I heard high pitched screeching and realized that I was in the midst of a nest. I put my hand on my fang as I continued walking deeper into the throng of koumori. I felt the auras of female koumori feeding off of Sheng and I grew sick to my stomach. Several of the creatures had dropped from branches and were following me. I found Sheng and several females were still feeding off of him. I used my fang and beheaded them.

“That was not very nice inu princess.” A sultry voice said to me.

“You are a disgusting wretch.” I said eyes burning.

I looked down at Sheng and saw that he was pale and a little blue. I channeled what little yoki Sheng had and produced a blast from my fang that decimated a small area of the forest. Kyung-Sam had flown out of the way along with a small group of the koumori. I grabbed Sheng and transformed into my true form and carried my mate in my jaws carefully. I took off at a full run, leaping over groups of two and three koumori. Several landed on my back and bit into my skin. I could not howl in pain because I would have dropped Sheng. I reached the edge of the wood and saw my father and Osamu. Father drew Bakusaiga and Osamu jumped to my back and slashed the koumori with his claws. They drew back and hissed at him. My father produced his energy whip decapitating them. I laid Sheng on the ground with the utmost care and changed back. I ripped open the skin above my breasts and brought his face forward so that he could drink some of my blood. I felt the koumori watch me from above and I produced a powerful barrier. My haori was open a little and I could feel Sheng weakly drinking. I felt disgusting but I did not know how to give him what he needed without passing my blood onto him. Osamu and my father came within the barrier and helped to strengthen it with their own yoki.

“He will be ok but this was a trap. Surely it was to trap one of us.” I stated.
Sheng rolled his head back and looked weakly up at me. He gave me a gentle smile and I smiled back.

“They want you and your twin and your mother.” He said.

“Why us?” I asked surprised.

“They are convinced that you belong to them.” He said weakly.

“You have Uppyr in you.” I said brushing his hair off his face.


“Not as much as you.” He said in a tired voice.

“We need to get you back to the palace and give you some raw meat.” I said.

My father watched the creatures and said nothing. I knew the idea of his mate being captured disturbed him.

“Once we let down this barrier we will have to fight.” My father said.

“Hai.” I agreed.

-Transform Osamu as will I. I am going to carry Sheng. - I pathed to my twin.

He nodded to me and I looked at my father. He nodded and we dropped the barrier and Osamu and I transformed into our inu selves, I took Sheng into my jaws and my father drew his Bakusaiga. My brother and I took off at a full run. We felt my father's fang release a powerful blast and we saw him move as quickly as us. Koumori came as if from nowhere and started attacking. Several again landed on my back as well as Osamu and viciously bit into our backs where we could not reach. Osamu snarled in fury and shook his fur violently to dislodge the blood drinkers. I followed suit and managed to get a few off. Kyung-Sam landed on my back between my shoulder blades and bit into my neck. I growled and lowered my head and let Sheng roll. My brother picked him up and took off. I transformed to my humanoid self and fell flat on my stomach.

-Take him and go! - I thought to Osamu.

-I will not leave you! - My twin pathed back.

-Yes you will! Take him now! I will escape this miscreant. - I yelled in mind.

The leader of the koumori had me pinned and I fought to throw him off. I growled like a wild animal and kicked.

“My, my you are strong little inu princess. Your blood is divine. I can tell you I will enjoy feasting on it.” He purred into my ear.

“Like hell you well!” I said with a surge of strength and threw him off.

I jumped to my feet and there was a burning pain where he had bit into my neck. I felt the wound and it was bleeding heavily.

“Why are you in Japan?” I snapped at him.

“Well the koumori are weak and useless here. There is much delectable and powerful blood to be had.” He said smirking.

He was not as repulsive as the regular koumori. His hair was long and black that he kept tied back; His eyed were almond shaped and almost black. It seemed he could change his appearance at will and his wings were not visible.

“What did you do to me?” I said staggering.

“My saliva contains a neuro-toxin. A little will render you unconscious.” He said smirking.

“Damn.” I muttered.

I had sent my brother and father on and in arrogance thought I could handle the bastard. They would come back for me I knew but what would they find?

-Naraku. - I thought hoping he might catch it.

I fell to my knees and my vision started to cloud over. Kyung-Sam knelt by me and was smirking.

“No one else shall touch you; I shall feast upon you alone.”

“You will be a dead youkai before too long.” I said as I passed out.
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“We have to go back!” Sheng cried.

“We will. She would not have sent us on without a plan.” Sesshomaru said.

“My Lord I do not think she had one. I think I know my mate and she was saving me.” He said urgently.

“She intended to save you and that is what we have done. This Sesshomaru intends to retrieve her when he can assure us all will not be taken.” He said firmly.

“Lord Sesshomaru please!” Sheng cried again.

“Sheng you are needed and there will be no further argument. Asuna WILL be retrieved and soon.” He said leaving his son in law.

Sheng pounded the floor next to his futon and growled in utter helplessness. His mate had sacrificed herself in order to save him. He was still weak from blood loss and wished like hell he could path to her but he was too far. He could barely feel her and knew they must be feeding off of her and he grew sick at the thought. Mayu came in with meat and broth. She set it by him and he stared at her.

“She would know what she was doing my Lord. I know my girl, she will figure a way out and soon.” She said smiling.

“Was she always so reckless? They are going to use her for food. My mate is going to be drained of her blood.” He said.

“Asuna has always done what she thought is right. She agonizes as you know.” Mayu said as she served him the food.

“Did she say where the pups are?” he asked taking the proffered food.

“No, my Lord. She spirited them away in secret. These creatures make her nervous when it comes to the twins.” She answered.

“She takes too much on herself. I NEED to get up and help find her. Is there any remedies you know of?” he asked drinking the broth.

“I will ask the healer my Lord. Rest is usually good.” She said bowing.

“Please find out and let me know.” He said urgently.

“Hai Lord Sheng.” She said as she left.
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I awoke and my hands were shackled above my head. I struggled against them and could feel powerful magics surrounding them. I growled in complete frustration.

“Coward you are without honor.” I said as the koumori leader came into my sight.

We were no longer in the forest and it seemed as if it was a cave.

“Now why would I need something as bothersome as honor?” he chuckled.

“You are disgusting vermin.” I seethed.

“I can make this very pleasant or very painful, it is your choice. Maybe you enjoy pain?” he asked with a predatory smile.

“Why have I been captured? Why are you after my family?” I snarled.

“Hmm let me see, you are half what I am. Your mother is full. These koumori are just that. I am kiang- shi also known as uppyr.” He said smiling evilly.

I stared at him in horror and shook my head. He came closer and lifted my chin.

“I can change shape some if that is what you are wondering? Hai I can.” He said as he pulled my haori from my neck.

I spit at him and he laughed again.
“You have been bitten several times already. Do you enjoy as it happens? You should.” He whispered seductively.

“My power is different from yours bastard.” I snapped.

“Different powers for different beings inu princess.” He said tracing my mate marks with his claws.

He leaned forward and sank his fangs into my mating mark from Sheng and I screamed in rage.

He drank from me and pulled away and smirked.

“You are the telepathic kind of uppyr. You will be harder to break my princess.” He said almost giddy.

“I will not break for anyone!” I snapped.

“Would you break for me for the life of your unborn?” he asked smirking again.

“You would not dare!” I snarled.

“This babe is not completely inu is it?” he commented as he paced in front of me.

“That is none of your business.” I snapped again.

“The power that creature yields is amazing inu princess. I should like to meet its father at some point.” He said kneeling next to me again.

“I will see you dead.” I said viciously.

“We shall see.” He said.

“You never answered my question. What do you want with me and mine?” I asked in a cold voice.

“Power. You have it and I will take it. All the taiyouki blood running around is a bonus.” He said smiling devilishly.

“You are sick.” I growled.

“Maybe. I shall leave you to your musings.” He said standing and walking out.

He was not koumori; he was just using them. I cursed this kiang shi to every Kami of the Netherworld I could think of. I wished either Sheng or Naraku were here and at this point I would take both of them. The bite in my neck stung and I wished the bastard would die at the point of my claws.

“Naraku get the twins back to the Palace and help me.” I whispered.
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“My lord Sheng, your sons have returned!” Mayu said as she brought the twin pups.

“Who?” He asked in shock.

“It was an old inu onna. She brought them to Lady Augusta.” She said.

The twins both giggled and smiled at their father and crawled around on his futon.

“They have been obviously well cared for. Who was the onna?” he asked in wonder.

“We honestly have no idea. Asuna would not have left them with nobody.” She said cooing at the pups.

“I am still weak. When is Lord Sesshomaru leaving to retrieve my mate?” he asked firmly.

“He was planning on first thing in the morning, he said with or without you.” She said looking at the young lord.

“Are the damned neko coming this time?” he asked annoyed.

“Hai.” She said.

“Alright. Mayu could you bring me as much remedies there are to help restore strength?” he asked.

“Hai my Lord.” She said bowing.

He smiled at his sons and picked them up.

“Where have you two been?” he murmured into their soft skin.

They both squealed in delight and grabbed at their father's features with their dull infant claws.

“My boys. Your father has to help save your mother. She went and got herself captured.” He said in a low tone.

-Asuna! - He sighed in his head.
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I had fallen asleep and I woke up when I felt fangs pierce my inner thigh. I sucked in my breath and gnashed my own. Kyung-Sam was drinking and I was assaulted with unwanted desire coursing through me. Spikes of pleasurable pain shot straight to my core. I knew he was making it happen and I tried to fight it.

“I hate you.” I snarled.

He pulled away and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. My life force stained it. I fought against the manacles and snarled viciously. I did not see how he was going to take my power through my blood except in small boosts of his yoki.

“You are a spitfire. Has any of your lovers ever managed to truly make you submit?” he asked amused.

“No and neither will you.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“I wonder how your mother will taste. She is a legend you know. She had quite a history before she left Russia. Such an entrancing creature and your mutt father got her.”

“Why take my mate besides to lure us here? He is only one quarter uppyr.” I said snappishly.

“He must come a powerful one to retain his telepathic powers. I really want your mother but I will take you instead.” He said frowning.

“Does my mother know you?” I asked surprised.

“No. Her family does.” He smirked again.

“Stasio and Viktor?” I asked surprised.

“I see you have met the brute. Not as elegant as we Asian youkai but still.” He said winking at me.

He sickened me and I realized he had an unnatural obsession with my mother. It was easy to see why; she was a beauty by any standard and could be the most compassionate creature or the most ferocious. I tried to break the manacles again and I surged my yoki and yelped in pain as I was burned.

“You are a powerful creature inu princess. I thought to contain your yoki. Clever creatures' witches are.” He said smiling widely.

I caught a familiar scent briefly and I narrowed my eyes at Kyung-Sam. He was allowing me to scent him and had masked quickly. I started struggling again and the kiang shi laughed wickedly at my struggles. He leaned down again to drink of me and I struggled.

“I think it will hurt this time.” He said with a feral look in his eyes.

He bent down and sank his fangs into my neck again and I fought back a scream. I could feel Naraku's intense hatred in my brain. Pain shot down my arms and it felt as though my blood was burning my veins. I screamed in pain and Naraku appeared out of his miasma and his limb wrapped around the kiang- shi's neck and pulled him away with force. Blood poured my neck and I gasped at the pain. Naraku's eyes were burning with hatred and he tried to break the manacles. He was surprised when they did not break.

“Damn it all.” He cursed.

“Channel my yoki.” I said hurriedly.

I let my yoki flow and his eyes opened wide. He broke the manacles off the rock wall. He turned his eyes to Kyung-Sam and tentacles wrapped around the blood drinker's legs.

“I will kill her, I swear.” Kyung snarled.

I grabbed at the wound in my neck as it started burning like blue fire.

“Let her be now!” Naraku hissed.

“I have no idea who you are but I can and will kill her and your unborn.” He said laughing.

Naraku let him go and gathered me to him. He quickly looked at me and pulled me into his miasma.

“I control her now; she will never be free of me.” Kyung-Sam screamed after us.

We reappeared near his castle and he pulled me down into his lap. The irons were still around my wrists. He inspected the wounds on my neck and pulled my tattered hakama down and inspected the wound in my thigh. The look on his face was terrible and I knew he wanted to kill the kiang shi.

“The twins?” I asked.

“I waltzed into the Western palace and gave them to your mother. I was disguised as an elderly inu.” He said with barely contained fury.

“Good. Thank you. How did you know?” I asked.

“I heard you as if you were next to me.” He said with hooded eyes.

“Can you take me to the palace?” I asked.

“Hai. You stink of a poison.” He said angrily.

“He said he carried a neuro-toxin in his saliva.” I said weakly.

“I am going to kill him slowly.” Naraku said maliciously.

“It will be alright. You and I are linked on a basic level now. There should have been no way you heard me.” I said thoughtfully.

“I care not how I heard you, the matter is I did. I am changing my form completely so I may not be scented.” He said stepping away from me.

He transformed before my eyes into an ookami and the scent matched. I burst out laughing at his choice and he stared thoughtfully at me. His hair had changed to dull black and his eyes were blue. His hair was much shorter and in a top not. I continued to laugh as it amused me.

“I am sorry. You must know how the inu feel about the ookami. They are pests. “I said with genuine mirth.

“I am glad you can laugh at my expense. I had to be at least a higher level youkai to save you do you not think, plus there is a treaty is there not?” he asked annoyed.

“Hai there is. You look perfect for a rescuer. Take us to my home.” I said smiling.

“Remember to mask the scent of the pup please.” He said testily.

“Hai.” I answered.

He pulled me to him and buried his nose into my hair. I could feel his agitation. His baser nature of wanting destruction and mayhem was trying to surface. We disappeared into his miasma and reappeared several moments later close to the palace gates. I staggered as the toxin was starting to affect me.

“Go to the gates and call for Yuudai. He is my general.” I said sitting.

“Is the pup going to be ok?” he asked in angry whisper.

“I am sure it is fine.” I said putting a hand to my temple.

He went up to the gates and called for Yuudai. I could not stop the nausea and clouding of my vision. I started to pass out again when I felt strong hands lift me up. I looked into the citrine eyes of my sire. Naraku played his part perfectly.

“You ookami, follow this Sesshomaru and speak of what you saw.” He commanded.

“Hai my Lord.” I said in a low tone.

-I do this only for you! - He snarled in my head.

-I love you. - I thought back weakly.

His eyes flashed and he followed my father into the palace gates.
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“Sheng! Sheng!” Akemi ran screaming into her cousin's chambers.

Sheng turned and at the same moment felt his mate's aura.

“She is here!” he said to Akemi as she stopped in front of him.

“Hai, an ookami found her. She is coming in and out of consciousness.” She said quickly.

“Stay with the twins?” he asked.

“Hai! Go!!!” she declared.

Sheng took off in a run to the Great Hall. His mate was laid out on the low table. Augusta ran into the Great Hall as well. Augusta's brown eyes turned cold when she scented a strange smell.

“That son of a bitch!” she snapped.

Sesshomaru looked at his mate in askance.

“He has poisoned her. His is a different strain of uppyr than I. He will be able to see through her eyes and control her.” She growled.

Everyone stared at Asuna and she moaned.

“How long?” Sesshomaru asked.

“Hours. “ Augusta answered.

“Get the healers in here now.” Sesshomaru commanded.

Sheng went over and took her hands in his and whispered to her. Augusta looked at the ookami and motioned for him to follow her.

“I am interrogating the wolf.” She said.

“Hai!” Sesshomaru answered.

“Follow me please.” She commanded softly.

“Hai my Lady.” He said bowing.

Augusta and the ookami left the hall. He followed her until they entered a small study off a larger one. Augusta turned and stared down the `ookami'.

“Tell me everything you know Naraku.” She said quietly.

“I cannot fool you.” He said looking straight at her.

“I know of very few that are strong enough to stand up to an uppyr. You also love my daughter, that I have no doubt. Now tell me what you saw.” She said more firmly.

“I dropped the twins here and I heard her call for me. That thing calls itself a kiang shi. Its name is Kyung-Sam. She has bites on her neck and her inner thigh.” He said with barely contained fury.

“Kiang shi is Chinese for Uppyr. He wants to control her for what?” she asked rhetorically.

“Ask Asuna. I am sure she knows.” He suggested.

“Hai but she has to wake up.” She said narrowing her eyes.

“She carries my child. I want her safe.” He demanded.

“Your pup is more powerful than you can imagine Naraku. It will be fine. My daughter has more yoki in her than even me. You two have created a very powerful little being. We need to rid Japan of this threat. Uppyr are plentiful but they are powerful in very insidious ways. Continue to play your part and you can stay. Do not tip your hand and do not be jealous of Sheng.” She said staring at him.

“I will keep myself quiet but I cannot stop the jealousy I feel. I will stay away from them both if necessary. I love her and I have told her I do not share very well.” He said in a very controlled voice.

“You may not play nice with others Naraku but I will tell you that not only is Sesshomaru here but Inuyasha as well. They have very long memories of your antics a century ago. I have forgiven you because you have saved two of my pups. My mate and his brother would not be so forgiving.” She stated neutrally.

“You threaten me?” he demanded.

“I state the truth.” She said shrugging.

“Still a crafty bitch.” He said crossing his arms across his chest.

“I like to think pragmatic.” She said.

“I will abide your requests; only because I wish to be near Asuna.” He said flatly.

“Good then. We understand each other. I will continue to mask the pup for her. I thank you for the extraordinary care of my grandsons. They were happy and well cared for.” She said.

“I love her.” He said flatly again.

“Hai.” She said stepping towards the door.

“I will see to it that you are established somewhat near her chambers. Use your abilities sparingly.” She continued.

“Hai.” He responded.

They left the small study and went back to the Great Hall. Augusta went to Asuna and knelt by her head.

-Baby girl, wake up! - She demanded in thought.

I shifted as I heard my mother speaking in my mind. It was hazy and I lifted my head a little and looked around. I saw Sheng next to me and I smiled weakly.

-What does he want sweet girl? - She asked.

-He wants you. - I thought back.

“What!!?” she asked with her voice in shock.

“Hai he wants you.” I confirmed groggily.

“You are more powerful than I.” She said in a low voice.

“He says you had a reputation before you left Russia and he knows Stasio and Viktor.” I said as quietly as I could,

“I see.” She said standing.

“What is going on?” my father demanded.

“This Kyung-Sam is using those of this household to get to me.” She said angry.

“Why attack the south?” I asked in confusion.

“To draw us out.” She answered.

“Who is Stasio and Viktor?” my father asked thinly.

“Oh Sesshomaru my love. Stasio is my father and Viktor is my twin brother.” She said looking down.

“Your father and brother? “ He asked surprised.

“Sesshomaru I will not speak of this now when there is an audience.” She said firmly.

“You will say something.” He snapped.

“I have been alive for five centuries; I have a past as do you MY LORD.” She said in a temper.

“I would like to go to the spring then my chambers.” I said weakly, breaking up an ensuing fight.

“Hai!” Sheng said taking my cue and picking me up.

“Sheng! Are you not still weak from blood loss?” I asked in concern.

“I will be fine. There is fixing to be fireworks. Who is the ookami?” he asked.

“My savior. I have asked that he stay here for now.” I said.

“Hai. I could not feel you very well and I was going mad.” He said kissing my brow.

“As was I. I still feel nausea.” I said tired.

“The healer will be in our chambers as soon as we get you out of the spring.” He said firmly.

“I want you to rest too. Akemi can assist me.” I said.

“Asuna.” He said testily.

“Sheng I will not argue. We have both been injured.” I said flatly.

“I will take this out on you when we are well.” He growled.

“Hai.” I said in exhaustion.

I was fighting to stay awake and I felt a brush against my mind and realized it was Naraku. I looked over at him and smiled.

-I owe you everything. - I thought to him quickly.

He bowed as Sheng carried me away.
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“How dare you question me like that in mixed company!” Augusta yelled.

“I dare what I will mate.” Sesshomaru snapped back.

“I am your mate not your servant. I will not be dishonored like that again!” She yelled louder.
“How is it that a foreign youkai knows more about you than I do? We have been mated for over a century and I do not even know your sire's name? My own pup knows more than I.” he growled.

“You are angry for no good reason Sesshomaru. That part of my life is over ad has been for over two centuries. I come to you as an equal and not some brood mare to further the Orlovich line!” she uttered in anger.

“Explain what you mean.” He demanded.

“I was like Asuna in that I was the most powerful female born of my generation. I was prized for my abilities and the ability to pass them on.” She said bitterly.

“How does that explain you omitting information?” he asked arching a silver brow.

“Kami Sesshomaru! I was to be turned into a whore for my family's glory. I was going to be given to Kami knows who. Uppyr make alliances for prestige and to further our mental abilities. I was nothing; I was property! Ningen women had more rights than I! Stasio had sold me into servitude to some foreign uppyr and told me if I did not comply then he would torture me. Torturing consists of starvation Sesshomaru. When I came out of the starvation I killed innocents. I spilled innocent ningen blood because I refused a mating. I ran away. I was a coward. I have never taken a life like that again, EVER!” she yelled at her mate in a fury.

“You could have spoken the truth to me.” He said quietly.

“I chose to mate with you. I have loved you since I saw you. I never knew a male who cared more about honor and duty than you. You loved Rin and took Kohaku under your wing. I had never felt such emotion before you.” She said as tears stung her eyes.

“Information is essential.” He said dispassionately.

“You are feeling as though I kept some major thing from you and I have not. I have given you my all you arrogant son of a bitch. I have given you three pups and soon to be one more. I cannot imagine my life more full or perfect than it has been with you this past century. If you do not see that my life only truly began when I fell in love with you then you can go to hell!” she snarled.

“You are being irrational. It disappointed me that you kept such information secret.” He said coming closer.

“I have my reasons the same as you have. You hardly speak of your own father and his ningen lover Izayoi. You can barely stand Inuyasha and you hate your own mother. You have your reasons and I do not question that. How dare you be disappointed in me!” she cried in anger.

Sesshomaru stiffened at the mention of his own troubled past. Time had not completely healed the wounds of the past and the hanyou's birth.

“You speak out of turn wench!” he said as his lips twitched in anger.

“No, I do not speak out of turn. It is your stinking male inu pride that makes you think I have done some misdeed to my alpha. I have not Sesshomaru. I have never done anything less than worthy for you.” She said impassioned.

“I will not lose you.” He said fiercely.

“You have always had me and you always will. I look at you and I see no end.” She said pressing her lithe figure against his.

“I am going to remind you over and over how much you are wanted and desired my mate.” He said breathing against her lips.

“Promise?” she almost begged.

“Hai. The whole of the palace will know that you are pleased.” He murmured against her neck.

“Big words. Do you intend to back them up?” she said coyly.

“Silence your inane prattling.” He commanded as he possessed her lips.
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I was in the hot spring and my cousin was washing my hair. She methodically scrubbed the silver strands.

“Who is the ookami cousin?” she asked.

“That is him.” I replied in a weak tone.

“I see. He is different is he not?” she replied.

“Hai.” I replied.

“Asuna you are not looking well.” She said.

“Akemi get the healer.” I said.

“Oh Kami!!!” she screamed

Sheng was not far from the spring despite his mate's wishes. He ran into the enclosure and saw Akemi pull Asuna from the spring; her body was shaking violently. Her limbs had gone rigid and she continued to shake. Sheng tried to hold her but nothing happened.
“She is having a seizure, I will be right back.” Akemi screamed.

Asuna's body continued to twitch and jerk as Akemi came back with the healer. Sesshomaru and Augusta had heard the screams and came running. Sheng tied helplessly to keep his mate covered. Augusta went to her daughter's side.

“Hold her still Sheng.” She commanded.

Sheng did as he was bid and Augusta bit into Asuna and drank her tainted blood. She would drink then spit the blood out. She repeated the process several times and finally pulled back.

“Get her to her futon.” Augusta ordered. Sheng picked her swiftly as the seizure finally stopped.

He went down the hall to their quarters and laid her on the futon as ordered. They had been followed by Sesshomaru, Augusta, and Akemi. Augusta saw Naraku in the guise of an ookami looking morose and concerned. She barely nodded to him and he disappeared.

“I have removed as much blood as I dare. Right now she is in a deep coma like sleep.” Augusta said aloud.

“I have never seen a youkai have a seizure, how could this happen?” Sheng said bewildered.

“It can happen when that bastard can control it!” Augusta said in a stormy way.

“Will she be alright?” Sesshomaru asked coldly.

“Hai. I will continue to remove her blood as her body makes more. This will take awhile.” She said furiously.

“Sheng if you can manage I would like you to give her your blood.” She said in severe temper.

“Hai. Will she be ok?” Sheng looked at his mother in law.

“I will see to it.” She said leaning down.

“My baby girl you risked everything for me and now I will do the same.” She whispered.

She stood and backed away from her daughter and stormed out of the room.

-Give her your blood when it is safe! - She pathed to Naraku.

-Hai! - He responded.

-She will need you more than you know, keep her safe. - She ordered the hanyou in thought.

-That was my intention! - He growled in her head.

Sesshomaru had followed his mate as she stormed out. Her grabbed her and turned her around.

“Where are you going!” he demanded.

“I am going to save our daughter.” She snapped.

“Think this through, you are acting without regard.” He said firmly.

“I am acting as a mother should.” She snapped.

She disappeared before the Western Lord's eyes and he looked surprised.

“Damn it!” he roared.


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