InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Guangzhou ( Chapter 18 )

A/n: I do not own Inuyasha, Rumikio Takahashi does. Thanks for the reviews!

 

Guangzhou

 

 

Fillip and I did not wait long for retribution. We were being hunted and the ability to mask came in quite handy. I could tell that Fillip felt alive for the first time in ten years and did not mind being hunted in the least. His face became more animated and it pleased me to no end. I also left my melancholy and it was entirely because of Fillip Orlovich. We were in the southern portion of China and I had never been this far south. I could feel the auras of many youki and knew that sooner or later we would be stumbled upon. I had no idea what I was running into.

Fillip had taken to wearing a pein fu and I thought it suited him. We would reach the coast in a matter of days and that made me happy. I stayed in touch with Naraku but the situation in Japan being what it was I did not want him appearing too much. Not only if he gave himself away, he gave my sons away too and I would not have that. My belly started to swell just a little and I thrilled at the pup's movements. I was starting to feel the yoki like everyone else already had. We were in a forest near the Pearl River and the ancient city of Guangzhou. I was resting beneath a tree and Fillip had gone hunting. I had found out he could survive off the blood of animals and it was looked down upon by other uppyr. Fillip did not care and drank the blood of the beast with no problems. I adored him and was glad he was coming to Japan. My eyes flew open when I felt the strong aura of an inu youki. By the strength of the aura I could tell it was a taiyouki. I was masked so there would have been no way I could be felt. The movements were erratic and I figured the creature was hunting. A boar burst upon the clearing and was snorting heavily. I stood and drew my fang; boars were great sport because of their size and ferocity. A giant brown inu jumped into the clearing also and stared at me with his red eyes. The boar snorted violently and made a charge towards me.

“Damn!” I muttered.

I hated the idea of interrupting a fellow inu's dinner and I jumped up into the tree. I did not wish to take on a taiyouki and I hoped he took my actions as friendly. I noticed a crest on his forehead and almost fell out of the tree. He bore the mark of lightning that Sheng's mother did and I stared. The big inu cocked his head at me and my actions and his dinner ran off into the forest. He barked lightly in greeting and I nodded my head in understanding. He was seeing if I understood him and it was evident I did and he changed into his humanoid form. Upon seeing that form I did fall from the tree. He caught me and laughed at me. I could swear I was seeing a ghost and knew instantly that this had to a natural brother to Sheng. I could not say anything and he looked down at me amused.

“I would ask if a neko had your tongue but you are obviously a inu taiyouki.” He said lightly.

“Hai.” I said scrambling from his grasp.

“Since you are unable to speak; my name is Jin.” He said in good humor.

“You are a Lord?” I asked shaking.

“Hai. I am sorry if I have frightened you but I mean you no harm.” He said bowing.

“I have to go!” I said almost stumbling in my haste to get away from him.

“What has you so spooked onna?” he asked.

He was beautiful. His hair was the same brown as Sheng's was but it was very short. He had almost the same eyes and he had all the markings of a taiyouki lord; the marks were a dark almost navy blue. He was taller than Sheng had been and obviously older. He did not carry the scent of uppyr on him but that could be because he did not have any or it was repressed. He wore a blue and white pein fu and I could not stop staring. Pain and anguish overcame me and I shut my eyes against the emotions.

“You are making me nervous. You are masking your scent, who are you?” he asked me gently.

I realized I had found Sheng's lost family but had no idea why he had been given to Tekeshi to raise. This damn male was just as kind as Sheng had been. I suppressed a shudder and turned to leave.

“Onna! You are being rude.” He said in a commanding tone.

“I have no wish to be rude but I am being hunted and it would do no good to have you drawn into my fight.” I said.

“She speaks!” he said smirking.

“I take my leave of you Lord Jin.” I said bowing.

“You are a inu bitch and you are here alone.” He stated.

“I am not without power my Lord.” I said.

“Alright how about we start with your name, I will introduce myself again. I am Jin and you are?” he said lightly.

“I am Asuna.” I answered.

“There that was not hard.” He said smiling.

“Most would attack a stray inu in their territory.” I commented.

“I am not most inu.” He said shrugging.

“I cannot do this.” I said backing away from him.

“What have I done to offend you onna?” he asked in surprise.

“Nothing. Do you know Lord Katashi?” I asked in a pained voice.

“Only by reputation. I do not venture far from my lands.” He said.

“Kamis, I have to go.” I said walking around him.

He followed me and I grew agitated. I kept my aura masked and he grabbed my arm and I stiffened as if he stung me.

“There is something terribly wrong and I hate not knowing what goes on in my lands.” He said.

“Jia Li was your mother?” I asked.

“Hai, how would you know that?” he asked his curiosity piqued.

I pulled the miniature out of my haori pocket where I kept it with me at all times. I pressed it into his hand and I pulled away from him. He stared at it then at me and saw tears streaming down my face.

“How did you know my mother? You are not old enough to have known her!” he said looking at me intensely.

“I knew her son.” I said in utter despair.

“I am her son.” He snapped.

“No, I knew her younger son.” I said shaking.

“You lie! I have only a sister.” He said coming to me.

Sheng's scent would still be on me through his mating mark and I unmasked my aura. He lowered his nose to my neck and gasped at what he scented, it was faint but it was there.

“How?” he asked in complete surprise.

“You look just like him.” I said.

“Who was he? Where was he?” he asked grabbing my shoulders.

“How could you not have known about him?” I asked him.

“My mother was taken over two centuries ago. We assumed she was dead. You mean to tell me that she was alive and birthed another son?” he said in complete shock.

“Your guess is as good as mine.” I said carefully.

“Who was he?” he asked in a strong voice.

“His name was Sheng and he was raised in Manchuria. Lord Tekeshi adopted him as a son. He was the current Lord's advisor and regent.” I said shaking.

“You carry the scent of another, where is my brother?” he asked in a temper.

“He died very recently and I returned to lay him to rest amongst what I thought was his family.” I said as my lip quivered.

“You were his mate. You will stay here amongst his kin. I would know of him.” He commanded.

“I cannot. I said I am being hunted.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“By who and what for?” he asked.

“I killed the creature responsible for his death.” I said flatly.

“Who was responsible?” he asked in a pained voice.

“My grand sire on my mother's side. He breathes no more.” I growled in a low tone.

“Where are you from Asuna?” he asked lifting my chin.

“I am from the Western Lands of Japan. I am the daughter of Lord Sesshomaru and Lady Augusta.” I said trying to jerk my head away.

“I know of your sire's name. Come you are family. I need to know of my baby brother.” He commanded of me.

“Do not command me as if I am your bitch. You are not my alpha.” I said in a nasty tone.

“Am I not?” he asked surprised.

“No you are not.” I said in a growl.

“So the inu nature comes out. You are not full inu I presume. You were mated to a member of this house therefore you are a member of my pack so therefore I am your alpha!” I said coming closer to me.

“I am the heir to the Western Lands, how dare you treat me as if I am some common bitch!” I said stepping back.

“You are wasting your time Lady Asuna. Even if you are the alpha female amongst your own you still were mated to a prince of the Panyu Inu.” He said.

“I cannot do this right now Lord Jin. I have to get home and save my current mate from my own family.” I said urgently.

“Did you have any pups with my brother?” he asked not paying attention to my declaration.

“I had identical twin sons; Hiroto and Kazuo.” I said annoyed.

“They belong to us as well.” He said arrogantly

“You cannot be serious.” I said in shock.

“I am quite serious my Lady.” He said crossing his arms across his chest.

“I am no commodity and my sons are heir to the Western Lands.” I said staring back.

“This clan will protect you from the creatures hunting you. I will also go to Manchuria and retrieve my brother's remains.” He said.

“He was raised with Katashi!” I said in anger.

“If I had known of my baby brother, he would not have rotted away in that wasteland up there. The least I can do is bury him with his ancestors!” he said in a pained voice.

“You do not know the story. You have no idea of his past!” I said.

“Whose pup do you carry?” he asked staring down at me.

“That is not your business. Sheng is dead and I am free to mate to whom I choose.” I said in a raw voice.

“No you do not have that choice. You belong to our pack now. I am sorry you do not understand but I can explain it to you.” He said haughtily.

“Where I am from it is not assumed that the female belongs to the male's pack. I am more than just a high ranking bitch; I am at my father's right hand.” I said.

“Lady Asuna these things will be explained to you but you really have no choice. You have birthed royal blood that belongs to my house and I will have my brother's sons here. You were his mate and that makes you of this house also. I do not know your father but I know his reputation and he will concur. I am not a inu that is to be taken lightly.” He said looking at me.

“So what are your plans for me then? I assure you now that there are those that will oppose you most fiercely in this.” I said in a fury at his high handedness.

“The only honorable course left to me.” He said with a shrug.

“Excuse me?” I said.

“I will make my brother's sons as my own and you will be my mate!” he said.

My eyes widened and I laughed.

“You have no right!” I said in disbelief.

“I have every right!” he snarled.

I could not believe my dumb luck and realized I just should have kept my damn mouth

shut!

“Surely you already have a mate and pups of your own.” I said.

“No I do not. I intend to find out why that slob Tekeshi had my brother in the first place.” He said fiercely.

“How about my pup in my belly? You have no claim to it.” I said accusingly.

“You have unknowingly become a bitch of this house and it is in my power to claim familial relations to any pup sired by me or not.” He said looking smug.

“You cannot be serious. You are a lunatic!” I said in total disbelief.

I felt an approaching aura of an uppyr that was not Fillip. I pulled my fang and the uppyr moved fast and knocked me down. Several more surrounded Jin and I. I jumped back to my feet and released a powerful blast from my fang. I had learned to control my own yoki and that of this powerful pup. I twisted in a full circle and took off the heads of two uppyrs. I plunged my claws into their chests so they would not regenerate. Jin had drawn his own weapon and he plunged it with expert ease into the chest of one uppyr then pulled the blade out and took the head of another. I produced my energy whip and took the heads of the last two and plunged my fang into their chests. My chest heaved at the exercise and knew that the pregnancy was progressing far enough that I would tire easily.

“You are well trained in the art of war.” He said as if impressed.

“I have commanded armies you arrogant son of a bitch!” I snarled at him.

“That is quite impressive. Tell me did my brother attempt to persuade you to good sense?” he said sarcasticlly.

“Your brother and I shared something incredible and he could not have controlled me if he wanted.” I said in a sudden fury.

“You shared a soul bonding?” he asked.

“How in the hell did you know?” I asked in surprise.

“That is why you are my responsibility now. It was a soul bond. He was telepathic I assume?” he said looking at me.

“Hai.” I said in shock.

“Our past family members bred with the damn kiang shi to produce the traits of them in the inu.” He said sheathing his sword.

“They wanted the traits?” I said in utter surprise.

“Hai. Gives us a leg up so to speak.” He said.

“My soul bond means that I am your responsibility?” I asked dumbly.

“Hai.” He answered.

“I thank you but no thank you. I am free to make my own choices.” I said bluntly.

“You are a troublesome wench.” He said starting to circle me.

“Do not treat me as prey. I am sorry for your lost dinner.” I said sarcasticlly.

“I have to protect the interests of my pack.” He said in a low tone.

“I am not your pack!” I screamed at him.

The older brother was just like his younger one in his inflated sense duty and arrogance. To top it all off he was a lord! I had heard of the reclusive group of Panyu inu but had never thought on them. He rushed me and moved my hair and bit into my jugular. I screamed in rage and could not believe the bastard was marking me! He was marking me without my consent and not in the middle of mating as he should do properly. He was marking me as his territory and I was beyond furious. I elbowed him in the gut and he held onto me. I was aroused and cursing my damn body! I elbowed him harder and finally I just latched my fangs onto his hand. I bit down and he shouted in anger. We were blood letting and I realized my error. I pulled my dirk from my thigh and pressed it to his gut.

“Let me go or I swear to every Kami in the heavens and Netherworld I will slice you open.” I raged.

“Do it.” He whispered into my ear.

“I do not know you nor do I love you!” I snarled.

“Love had nothing to do with it! It is about honor and duty!” he snarled back.

“Naraku!!!” I screamed in voice and thought.

I knew my dark hanyou would hear me and I hoped Fillip would come back soon. I hated drawing Naraku out but this particular inu was about as strong as my father. I could feel his yoki snapping and crackling below the surface. I had guessed right when I thought Sheng had come from a powerful genealogy. Naraku appeared out of his miasma and his face held a furious look. A tentacle erupted from his body and he grabbed me from the Panyu lord. Jin looked furious and Naraku held me to his body.

“How dare you touch my mate!” Naraku snarled.

“I will forgive your ignorance hanyou. She belongs to my pack. She was mated to my brother and I am her Lord.” Jin said carefully.

“I do not give a fig for your policies and traditions mutt. She is my mate by mark and virtue.” He said hotly.

I could not believe that Naraku was referring to me as his mate, things were definitely changed.

“I can and will kill hanyou. You know not what you interfere in!” Jin said in a fierce tone.

“I assure you mutt that I am not to be taken lightly.” He condescended.

“I marked you wench. You belong to my house and to me. I will come for you!!” he said disappearing in a moment.

“What in the hell happened?” Naraku hissed.

“I was minding my own business Damnit! Do not take your anger out on me!” I seethed.

“Why did you not have me come to you sooner!” he said shaking me.

“Do not shake me or raise a hand to me ever!” I screamed at him.

He released me and turned away in a fit. I had not truly seen him this angry. I felt Fillip coming and knew he must have chased a deer or other animal quite a ways. The forest floor was littered with uppyr corpses and one very pissed off hanyou and inu bitch.

“Might I ask what happened here?” he asked quietly.

“I ran into my dead mate's brother.” I said flippantly.

“She got herself marked by him is more the truth!” Naraku hissed.

“Then remove his mark!” I snarled at Naraku.

“I will!” He said grabbing me and miasma swirled around his claw tips. He stabbed them into my neck and I screamed in agony. My whole abdomen clenched painfully and I could not catch my breath. I started heaving and Naraku stopped all if a sudden. Fillip had his hand on Naraku's and had said something. My yoki flared and Naraku was thrown back in a surge of that yoki. I stared in disbelief and Naraku's own eyes had widened.

“The pup!” he said in shock.

I felt it too and realized in utter shock that the pup was protecting itself from the womb. I was at a loss as to how and Naraku and I both stared at my stomach.

“What have we created?” I asked rhetorically.

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The pup had not allowed its sire to remove the mark and we sat beneath a tree still in utter disbelief. I knew that Naraku and I were powerful but the idea that a pup could surpass us from the womb was unimaginable. Naraku held me to him and Fillip sat close by. I was in total shock at meeting Sheng's real brother and he his assertions that he owned me.

“I need to go home. I have no clue as how to handle this.” I said.

“I had an idea.” Fillip said.

Naraku had actually calmed around him and looked at him thoughtfully.

“Fight the Western Lord in a battle and die.” He said.

“You truly jest.” Naraku said raising a brow.

“Asuna told me of your youki puppets you can do. She had thoughts that you both could infuse it with a hell of a lot of power. Considering the amount of yoki that babe had I think you could pull it off.” Fillip said.

“Considering what we just witnessed, I think a puppet would be believable. If all thought you were dead again, you would be free and so would I.” I said.

“Well I guess I face the mutt soon. You need to return to the West in total supplication and we will make our move closer to the birth of the pup.” Naraku said.

“I have to beg?” I asked irritated.

“It has to be believable my little inu.” He said nuzzling my neck.

“Alright I will.” I said.

“I am also going to skewer myself another mutt for having touched you!” Naraku growled.

“He did not back the claim up by a physical mating. His mark will be meaningless in Japan.” I said.

“He was not making an idle threat Asuna. He wields almost as much yoki as your blasted father.” Naraku said through clenched teeth.

“Well so do I.” I snapped.

“I assume then Naraku that you will be returning us to Japan?” Fillip asked.

“Hai I most definitely will. You my Lady Asuna have more of a knack for trouble than I do!” Naraku said rolling his eyes.

“I cannot help it.” I growled.

“You will tell your father that I controlled and used you. I will make noise in other parts of Japan and when the time comes I will fake my own death.” Naraku said in a firm tone.

“I do not like the part of telling them that you used me!” I protested.

“Uppyr speak reason with her. Tell them he broke my spell on you.” He snapped.

“He is right Asuna. It is a good plan. All that matters is the end result. This way you will eventually be able to come and go as you please.” He said.

“Fine but I do not have to like it!!!” I snarled.

“Do not like it but just do it.” Naraku snarled back.

I glared at him and sighed. I stepped closer to him as I motioned for Fillip to do. Naraku held onto us and we disappeared in his miasma. We had no idea we were being watched.

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I promptly saw my sons and went to the hot springs and took a bath and scrubbed every scent off of me I could. The boys seemed to nuzzle deeper into my neck and I knew it was they scented someone that was very close in scent to their chichi. I grieved for them and wondered for half a second if going to Panyu was not the best action. I dismissed the notion and put on a green and bronze haori and hakamas after my bath. I put on a pair of geta and braided my hair. I appeared in the Great Hall of the northern castle and sat down in a huff. Mayu came up behind me and had my clothing and such ready to go. Naraku stood in the door way and watched me with hooded eyes.

“I am going to miss you my little inu as well as the twins.” He said softly.

“What are they calling you now?” I asked.

“Chichioya two.” He said grinning.

I laughed at my little ones and looked up at Naraku.

“I will not touch you right now so as not to spread my scent on you.” He said sighing.

“This will work.” I stated positively.

“I am no longer worried over your father but this Lord Jin character. I know I have your mother's goodwill and that will help us. That Jin is a wild card.” He said darkly.

“I will not allow him to touch me or my sons.” I said emphatically.

“I believe you but I do not trust him.” He said.

“I understand.” I replied.

“Asuna, you need to know that I never even wanted the Shikon completed as much as I want you and our pup.” He said all of a sudden.

“I know.” I said and I stood up on tip toes and brushed my lips against his.

“Go now.” He said.

“Hai.” I said.

I took the twins and Mayu and Fillip followed closely behind. We left the castle and started trudging towards the Western Palace. The trip would take two or three days as I did not have enough power to transport us all.

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“My Lord! Lady Asuna approaches!” Yuudai informed the Western Lord.

“Finally!” Sesshomaru muttered under his breath.

Augusta ran into the study and beamed up at her mate. They had not been on speaking terms right after Asuna left but finally the ice had started to thaw. She had made Sesshomaru swear to keep his word and not kill Naraku if Asuna did return. He swore it to her and they had made up. He knew creatures could change but he would never forgive Naraku for the century before that was too much to ask. Asuna had pathed to her right before she had appeared on the horizon and told her of her father's death. Augusta was shocked but knew he had deserved it. They waited for the half hour it took for Asuna to make it to the palace. Sesshomaru was anxious and had missed his daughter terribly. He knew she had lost her mind to grief but he should have been allowed to help her grieve. He had truly liked Sheng and was angry at his passing too. His face was emotionless but he still remembered the day of her birth. He had been so proud; he hated to admit to a favorite as his own father had favored the hanyou, but she was his pride among his brood. Powerful and beautiful she was, she stood up to anything including him! His daughter walked in and handed her sons to his mate and prostrated herself on the floor. That move surprised him greatly and his heart warmed instantly.

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“My Lord and father I beg your forgiveness of my madness. I beg of you to allow me home.” I said staring straight down.

I knew he would never expect me to do this but I did it anyway. He was right in his feelings about Naraku but that did not stop me from loving the hanyou. I would do anything to protect him and if that meant my humiliation then so be it.

“Asuna do not prostrate you before this Sesshomaru. You are home amongst your family and we forgave you along time ago.” He said pulling me up.

Tears stung my eyes and I broke every rule known in the House of the Moon, I grabbed my father and cried like a small pup. Whatever our differences of opinion, I loved my father with my soul. That was the crux of my problems. I felt Fillip behind me and my mother stared at him in wonderment.

“Augusta Elizaveta! I am your second cousin Fillip Abram Benedict Orlovich.” He stated bowing.

“You are Abram's son?” she asked in obvious shock.

“Da Princess.” He said.

“How did you come to know Asuna?” she asked still in shock.

“We met at Stasio's house in Novgorod. We finished him together in Moscow at the Kremlin.” He replied with a smile.

“Oh dear boy what have you done? Vlad will come after you himself!” she admonished him.

“Mother there is much to tell but he deserved death.” I said flatly.

“No doubt Asuna but Vlad Dracul makes Kyung-Sam look like a pansy!” She said.

“Augusta speak with your relation, I will speak with our daughter.” He said.

“Hai my love! Come Fillip I shall show you some chambers.” She said.

Fillip nodded to me and me to him and my mother had the twins in her arms. Mayu followed my mother and I sat on silk cushions.

“How did you become pregnant by him?” he asked.

“He and I had physically fought and one thing led to another. I know you will find this odd but he is an attractive male.” I said honestly.

“Kami Asuna! I care not one wit for his looks…you have become a lustful creature like Osamu.”

“I do not deny it Father. I am truly sorry. He did not force me if that is what you think but I do respect him a little. He can be rather hateful and cruel. I see the errors of my way. He does not want this pup and he cannot have it anyway.” I said looking away.

I could not force myself to lie completely. I would do just enough to ensure his safety and if it became necessary the youki puppet would be used.

“I am glad you say these things. I have missed you much.” He said sitting.

“I have missed you also.” I said.

“I am sorry for Sheng's death. He saved your mother from the uppyr that meant to attack her.” He said quietly.

I shut my eyes at the information and opened them and nodded. My mate surprised me again. He died with much honor and had saved my mother.

“We have a problem.” I said tonelessly.

“Explain.” He said raising a brow.

“I have found Sheng's true family in Guangzhou.” I said.

“Guangzhou?” he asked in surprised.

“Hai. Sheng's older brother is Lord Jin of the Panyu Inu.” I said looking away.

“This is a problem.” He said scowling.

“Why my Lord?” I asked in confusion.

“They are very reclusive Asuna. I have never heard anything negative about them but they treat their bitches very protectively.” He said thoughtfully.

“You mean they treat them as property.” I said snappishly.

“They are more pack like then even us daughter. They would never allow one they regarded as their own to another pack.” He said.

I pulled my haori from my neck and showed him the mark that Jin had made on me. My father stood in a fury.

“Kamis Asuna how you manage these political debacles?” he declared.

“You think I wanted this? He is an overbearing and arrogant male.” I said disgusted.

“Asuna he has a legitimate claim to you and the twins!” he said snapping.

“He has no claim as I recognize none! I care not for traditions and youki courts. You are the law in this land and so am I. Those of the Western Lands are my people and no other. I will be ruled by no one save my fealty to you!” I said standing.

My speech startled my father and he eyed me coolly. He understood my point as he supported it when he made me his heir. I looked at him and stood firm.

“You loved Sheng though.” He pointed out.

“Sheng was my consort and my equal. Jin is nothing to me as he is not Sheng!” I said narrowing my eyes.

“He will make a play for you, you have to understand that.” My father said.

“In your sire's time, would he have made a female his heir?” I asked.

“No.” he said firmly.

“Then you are forward thinking. I am no male's property and I shall raise my sons as I see fit!” I said.

“Hai!” he said.

I bowed to him and started to take my leave of him.

“What of your pup?” he asked.

“This pup is apart of me, can you accept that part of me?” I asked him.

“I accept that part of you as long as this is the only part of Naraku that sees this palace.” He retorted.

“Hai my Lord.” I said bowing.

I left my father's study and smiled.

-It is done for now. - I thought to Naraku.

I felt his mind brush mine and then nothing. He would do whatever took to stay alive and be there for our pup. I decided to write Katashi a letter and inform him of whom Sheng really was and see if I could get some answers about Jia Li.

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I sat at my desk in my room and wrote the letter to Katashi. I sealed it and gave it to a servant when Akemi busted into my room.

“Asuna oh Kamis I have been so afraid!” She cried as she grabbed me.

“I needed time Akemi.” I said hugging her back.

“Who is the delicious morsel you brought back with you from Russia?” she asked excitedly.

“He is my third cousin and his name is Fillip.” I said with a laugh.

“Kami he is good looking.” She said winking at me.

“Hai but he is very much an uppyr.” I said with a smile.

“Are you ok? I know you suffer about Sheng but are you home for good?” She asked taking my hands.

“I suffer still but Fillip has helped ease the pain. He has also been a great help.” I said.

“So he has been around some that is good. I am so glad you escaped Naraku's clutches.” She said with a knowing look.

“As am I.” I said for any spies in the palace.

“Well things have been turmoil here. Father and Uncle have both searched for you and my father says he will not forgive you for at least fifty years.” She said with a smirk.

“He can kiss my full youki ass.” I said sarcasticlly.

Akemi laughed and I joined her. I stared at her and noticed that she had been truly worried.

“I am sorry I left without you. I had truly lost my mind.” I said.

“I could never stay mad at you.” She said hugging me.

“What of the young neko prince?” I asked.

“He is back in the south and we have our trysts. I still refuse to mate him and he accuses me of using him as a male whore.” She said smirking.

I had to laugh at that thought and I busted out laughing. She laughed till she cried and I smiled at my dearest cousin and hugged her fiercely. I heard a knock on my door and there was my mother and Fillip. I left Akemi's embrace and went into my mother's arms. She started crying as did I. She held onto me then looked into my eyes.

“We will make it work on all fronts, do you understand?” she said.

“Hai!” I said wiping my tears away.

“That was foolishly brave but very stupid thing by killing my father.” She admonished me.

“Did Fillip not tell you what he did?” I asked in surprise.

“He showed me. Still Asuna in a court full of ningen? Vlad WILL come after you and Fillip. Stasio was a very prominent uppyr in his alliance.” She said.

“We are all here.” I said stubbornly.

“Do you ever tire of fighting?” she said.

“Hai!” I said in a shamed tone.

“Princess it was both of our doing.” Fillip piped in.

“I do not carry that wretched title here Fillip. You are family so you may call me Augusta or Augusta Elizaveta. I leave that choice to you.” She said.

“Fillip this is my Uncle Inuyasha's daughter, Akemi.” I said introducing them.

“Hello!” Akemi said bowing.

“Good to meet you my Lady!” he said bowing also.

“Akemi, my darling niece could you give the three of us some privacy?” My mother asked.

“Hai.” She said bowing then winked at me.

My mother waited until Akemi left then shut the shoji door then turned to Fillip and I.

“You two must be careful in any trysts. Tensions are high here in the palace and utmost discretion must be used if you were to fall into each other's arms.” She said.

Fillip blushed like mad and I just looked at my mother and nodded.

“Good we understand each other. I am fatigued as I grow heavier with my pup. Fillip feel free to meet my sons Youshiro and Osamu. They are both very powerful telepaths.” She said leaving my chambers.

“Dear God how did she know?” he asked in shock.

“She is a seer or did you not know that?” I said laughing.

“That is not a common gift amongst uppyr! No wonder Stasio wanted to breed her!” he said amazed.

“It still did not give him the right to do what he did Fillip.” I said.

“Of course Asuna, but precognition is an amazing thing!” he said.

“I have fleeting moments of it but of course my mother is four centuries older than I.” I said shrugging.

“I am going to retire for now and partake of this beautiful palace!” he said grinning.

“It is good to see you happy.” I said smiling.

“Da the same could be said for you.” He grinned at me.

He kissed my cheek and left. I smiled as he left. I went to my futon that I had shared with Sheng and sighed. The pain and the void were still heavy and painful but I was learning to live and that was all that mattered. I needed information on Jin and that whole blasted affair. I refused to be taken in because I was a widow as a ningen would be called. I had made my decision to stay with Naraku and that was what I was going to do. Fillip at times was able to fill the void but he was free to pursue his own interests and he would have my blessings, he deserved to be happy. I was finally home and I cried softly.

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Several weeks had passed and my life fell into a normal cycle and I enjoyed Akemi's gossip and news of her neko lover. Daichi was honorable and wanted my cousin but she was going to make him go mad. I inquired how she had not come up pregnant and she had whispered to me of her mother's books. I demanded she bring them and she promised she would and soon. I received a letter from Katashi and its contents were surprising.

 

Asuna,

I do not know all the circumstances of Sheng being brought here but it does not surprise me that he is a taiyouki. I barely remember the man that I thought was Sheng's father but I do remember Jia Li. She was like my mother in that she was fragile. I never thought on it but I think she must have had a terrible situation when she did come to us. I remember Sheng being born and how much his mother cried. She only lived three more summers and died. I never knew from what. I was away on campaigns at the time so I never gave it much thought. She was a Lady from neighboring lands and very beautiful. She was always gentle with Sheng and I remember that angered the man we thought to be his father. I wish I could be of more help but you know I was always reckless and careless in my youth. I will not allow Sheng's remains to leave our family shrine; my father loved him as much as he did me. Sheng would never allow him to name him as an official son but he wanted to. He was my brother in every sense of the word. This Lord Jin can come here and be damned as far as I am concerned. I hope all finds you well and know I miss you.

Katashi

 

I looked at the kanji and realized I knew less than when I wrote the damn letter. I sighed in frustration and wondered when and if this Jin would make a move. He had not made a move to Manchuria so maybe he would not show himself to me again. I sighed again and stood. My belly could definitely be seen now and I had managed one tryst without being seen with Naraku. That had warmed me and he was happy. I knew once the pup was born then stuff would get crazy again.

I was lying on a chaise in the garden and I felt a powerful aura that I recognized but did not place finger on. It was not in the palace but outside its walls. I rose from my prone position and went to investigate. I had on a loose tunic that was cinched at the waist with a narrow obi. The sleeves had been split and it came to my ankles. It was made of a light silk and was black. My hair was unbound and it blew in the light wind. I came out of a side entrance in the gates but stayed near the wall. I saw the Panyu Lord a short distance away. He was not even bothering to shield and he allowed me to sense his presence. I knew my father was going to be here any second and I stared him down. He leisurely strolled forward and stood ten feet from me.

“I told you I would come for you.” He said quietly.

“I have no wish to go anywhere with you.” I said.

“We would love you and care for you.” He said.

“I am not your problem. You had no idea Sheng existed until I told you.” I said softly.

“I should have known. He would not have died had I known. You must understand that regardless if I knew of him or not he was still my brother. I found out more about him and he was an honorable inu and you gave up the Manchu Lord for him.” He said.

“Stop! It hurts when you speak of him, it hurts when I speak of him. You look so much like him that it hurts to look at you. Why would I cause myself more pain?” I said in anger.

“I can make that pain go away. It is in my power to do so.” He said very softly.

“As I said I am not your problem.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Asuna!” my father called from the wall.

“My Lord!” I said bowing.

Surprisingly Jin bowed as well and I was surprised. My father was at my side in but a moment. He did not show it but I could tell how surprised he was by the resemblance between Sheng and Jin. He stood regally by my side.

“I formally request to see my nephews Lord Sesshomaru.” Jin asked with another bow.

“You will have to ask their mother for that permission.” he said stiffly.

“Lady Asuna! I wish to know my nephews.” He said to me.

My face remained a mask of stoicism but inside I was in turmoil.

“You may see them from afar. I have no wish for them to think that their chichioya has returned to them.” I said.

My father put a hand on my shoulder and I stood straighter.

“Why would there be confusion?” he asked gently.

“You scent like him!” I snapped and turned my head away.

“You loved my brother, I can tell that and I respect that more than you know. You are also our pack now and I can make it better for you.” He stated again.

“Do not attempt anything but seeing them or I will run you through.” I warned.

“I will honor your requests my Lady.” He said bowing.

I shook and my father stood by and held me up. I motioned for Jin to follow me. I led him into the palace and my father followed behind him just in case. The twins were in my chambers in their nursery with Mayu. Jin followed me and when he entered the doorway he masked his scent and that surprised me. He was going to honor my wishes.

“The slightly bigger one is Hiroto. The other is Kazuo.” I said quietly.

He watched them and his face was very soft. My heart clenched painfully and I turned away.

“Hahaoya! Haha!!” Kazuo started chanting.

Jin moved back and I went to my son. I picked him up and I knew Jin could see the strong familial resembalance between himself and my sons. The citrine eyes were from my own house and so were the makings but the rest was Sheng.

“Haha niku! Niku!” Hiroto started chanted.

I grinned and my father's eyes were shining.

“Mayu can you take them and get them their lunch?” I asked very quietly.

“Hai my Lady.” She said.

“Hiroto and Kazuo kochi!” Mayu said gently.

“niku! Niku!” the boys started chanting together.

I laughed as my old nursemaid led me sons to get their lunch of wild boar. They preferred raw meat but still needed milk. I turned to Jin and my father and went to my main room that I used as a study and audience chamber. I sat down and so did my father and Jin.

“You three belong with us.” He said quietly.

“I am the heir apparent to these lands and you speak to me but also my Lord and sire. I explained that I will not go anywhere. You saw the markings on them; they belong to the House of the Moon.” I said bluntly.

“She is needed here Lord Jin. Her brothers were not born with the power she has. She is this Sesshomaru's strongest and oldest pup.” My father stated.

“I will not dishonor myself by forcing you out of your own home Lady Asuna but I have claimed you and your sons. My claim is not only lawful in my lands it is right! My brother left this world and it is my duty to attend his mate and offspring. I am sorry that the Western Lands do not understand this concept.” He stated with conviction.

“We are not necessarily male dominated here. I was born with the ability to wield my father's fang and I was born with all his inu ability but those of my uppyr mother. You can see I do not need nor want your help.” I said in a snippy tone.

“Lord Sesshomaru may I speak with your daughter alone for just a few minutes?” he asked very respectfully.

“Hai. I will be in my study and Jaken will be nearby.” He said to me.

“Hai my Lord.” I said.

I reached into a small drawer in my desk and pulled out a miniature that I had painted of Sheng. I handed it to Jin and his eyes widened.

“As you can see the resembalance is uncanny.” I said breathing heavily.

“He was my mother's son” he whispered.

“Why was your mother taken?” I asked.

“She was originally of the Wuhan Lands. She was the eldest but female. She was a taiyouki. My father was killed in a battle that spilled into the Panyu lands. She was taken as a spoil of war. We searched for her for something but we never found her.” He said sadly.

“She is buried and not cremated. Those were her wishes I believe is what I was told. The male that may have fathered Sheng had many liaisons and she was a ward of the Manchu court. She died when he was three summers.” I relayed the story as I knew it.

“Why did she not come back?” he asked in confusion.

“For Sheng perhaps? There is much speculation that she had met with much violence before she came to the Manchu court. She may have gone mad and could not think to come back to you and your sister.” I said.

His face was visibly shaken and I felt for him. He found out so much and from a complete stranger.

“I wish for you to at least come to Panyu and see our people. I wish for you also to arrange for my brother and mother to be returned to us. You know the Manchu Lord well and I do not think that is much to ask.” He said softly.

“Katashi I know would consent for your mother's remains but not Sheng's.” I said quietly.

“Why?” he asked in anger.

“Lord Tekeshi raised Sheng as his son. He is a minor lord amongst the Manchu.” I said.

“He is my brother and your mate. You have more right than Lord Katashi.” He said standing abruptly.

“Lord Jin, I only tell you what I have been told.” I said putting up a clawed hand to calm him.

“Will you travel with me to Manchuria and convince him to release my brother's remains?” he asked.

His blue eyes implored me and I nodded yes. I stood and he came closer to me.

“Do not come near me. I have said over and over that you are not responsible for me.” I said.

“I would like to see my brother in your memories.” He asked.

“No! My memories are mine as well as my pain. Sheng was my mate and I will not share that!” I said suddenly furious.

“I can help you if you allow me. I want to make it better for you.” He said coming closer.

I backed up and dove for my fang. I held it ready to pull it from its sheath and waited for Jin to make a move.

“You are stubborn.” He said sighing.

“I am my own inu. You will never control me. Sheng tried to at times and failed miserably. You owe me nothing! I will help you regain his remains because I know he wanted to know his family so badly. He was ruthless in the protection of our pups and I believe these would be he wishes.” I said shaking in anger.

“Have you no understanding of the soul bond? Are you not in constant pain?” he asked me gently.

“I know of the uppyr soul bond.” I said.

“Not the same.” He said shaking his head.

“I do not care. You owe me nothing nor do I want it. What if my pain is all I have of him?” I asked.

“You are being foolish.” He said sighing.

“I AM NOT YOUR RESPONSIBILITY!!!” I yelled at him.

“You may believe that but it is simply not true.” He said shrugging.

“You may stay at the palace but stay away from me and my sons!” I said.

“I can take us to Manchuria now if you like.” He said looking at me.

“I will have to let me father know.” I said.

He nodded pleasantly and I stormed out of the rooms and saw Jaken.

“Jaken!” I snapped at the kappa.

“Milady!!!” he said throwing himself to the floor.

“Tell my father that I am headed to Manchuria for a short while. I am aiding Lord Jin in the recovery of his relatives. My lord knows of what I speak.” I said quickly to the kappa.

“Hai Milady!” he squeaked.

Jaken got up and ran in the direction of my father's study. I went back into my chambers and allowed Jin to hold onto my arm. I kept my shields firmly in place and his yoki took us to Shenyang. It took several minutes and the power behind that kind of display was amazing. I stepped away from him immediately and approached the palace gate. The weather was warm so Katashi should be here. I called out to the gate keeper and he acknowledged me.

“Lady Asuna my Lord is in He Gang!” he said.

“Many thanks!” I said.

I removed myself then went to Jin's side and looked at him.

“He is in He Gang.” I said.

“I need an image to focus on.” He said.

I rolled my eyes and allowed him into my mind as I imagined the Winter Palace. His mind's touch was warm and almost spicy and my breathing increased.

-Get out! - I growled in his head.

He withdrew and my breathing slowed. He took my arm and we phased out and back in He Gang slowly but with so much yoki it was insufferable. I reminded myself to heed Naraku's pleas when I pressed mine in on him. I went up to the gates of the Winter Palace and called out.

“Lady Asuna!” the guard said as he recognized me.

“Is your Lord here?” I asked.

“Hai my Lady! He would bid you enter.” The guard said.

I nodded to Jin and he silently followed me. I wound my ways through the passages and I knew where Katashi would be this time of day. I led us to the dojo that I had once decimated. I smiled at the memory and Jin searched my face. I put my mask back on and knocked on the shoji.

“Come!” the Manchu Lord said.

I came in followed by Sheng's elder blood brother and Katashi dropped his sword. The similarities were disconcerting and I could see it on Katashi's face.

“Lord Katashi. I am Lord Jin of Guangzhou and Panyu.” Jin said bowing.

“You look just like him!” Katashi said in amazement.

“I am glad you think so. I am here for my brother's remains. I wish to place him amongst his ancestors.” Jin said very calmly.

Katashi looked at me and I looked away.

“Jia Li was my mother and I would like to bring her home to Panyu.” He said bowing.

“Sheng was my brother Lord Jin. He is amongst his father that raised him.” Katashi said evenly.

“Sheng was unknown to us but I wish to honor him as he deserves.” Jin said in his even tone.

Katashi considered the request and looked at me.

“I will speak with his mate on it for a moment.” He said.

“That is acceptable.” Jin bowed.

Katashi pulled me to the side and looked at me. I know he wanted me to say no but I could not do that.

“Let him go Katashi. He is very powerful and I daresay he rivals my father's power.” I whispered.

“I hate this! He was my brother Asuna!” he hissed.

“You need to think of your lands my friend. He is powerful as I said.” I replied in a quiet tone.

“Lord Jin, I release Sheng to you. I request that I attend any honors that you give him.” Katashi said.

“I find that acceptable.” Jin bowed.

“Come I will take you to his resting place.” Katashi said.

“Many thanks Lord Katashi.” Jin said.

I remained rooted to my spot as the males went to leave. Jin and Katashi looked at me and I shook my head vigorously.

“I will not say goodbye again. You have what you came for Lord Jin, now leave me alone!” I cried.

“Lady Asuna!” Jin said coming closer.

“Leave. Me. Alone!” I cried.

I pushed past him and made my way to the front gates of the palace. Tears stung my eyes and I was blinded to my whereabouts. I wanted peace from his death and it seemed it would not be so. Jin came up behind me and I whirled to face him. His face showed compassion and I hissed at him.

“Please let me help you!” he cried softly.

Katashi came forward ready to assist me if need be. I shook my head no and I transformed into my sphere and left.

“You will not have her you know.” Katashi said bitterly.

“I only wish to do my duty to her and her sons. You have no idea what you speak of Manchu so do not speak!” Jin hissed.

“I will speak as I see fit.” Katashi said.

“You are a fool. She will continue to suffer till she wishes for death.” Jin said angrily.

“She does what she wants. If she wishes to suffer then she will.” Katashi said.

“No wonder your union did not work, you are a coward.” Jin sneered.

Katashi came at Jin and the Panyu lord lifted a hand and Katashi grabbed his throat as an invisible force choked him. Katashi went to his knees and Jin released him.

“You are not capable of harming me Manchu. I would like my brother's remains and those of my mother.” He said narrowing his eyes.

“Hai you bastard.” Katashi snarled.

“Please see to it. I will be back shortly.” He commanded.

“Bastard!” Katashi muttered.

Jin disappeared and followed Asuna's aura. She moved a great distance in a short amount of time. She had transformed and sobbed at the base of a great conifer tree. Jin came up and sat next to her.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Jin sat beside me and took me into his arms. I fought against him and he growled low in his chest and I calmed.

“Please I keep asking you to let me assist you. I can lessen the pain till it leaves.” He said in my ear.

“Why cannot you abide my wishes and leave me be?” I cried.

“Because I cannot. You are like my people and I understand. My brother mated you in the way of his people.” He said in a soothing voice.

“You look like him and smell like him. I want to hate you.” I said.

“You can hate me if you wish. I can heal your heart and care for you.” He whispered.

“Why did you mark me?” I asked looking up at him.

“Because I had to.” He murmured.

“No you did not.” I said fiercely.

He bared his fangs and lowered them to the mark he had made before and bit into it. I gasped and I was overwhelmed in his power. He truly was not to be trifled with. I could feel him pressing my shields and I slammed them up tighter. He growled low against my skin and my body tried to calm but I would not allow it. My own yoki flared against his and he was surprised. He withdrew and shook his head.

“Kami you are a stubborn onna!” he hissed quietly.

“Unhand me!” I demanded.

“No!” he said holding me tighter.

“You may be powerful but so am I!” I sneered.

I pressed my own mind against his superb shields and we fought against each other in our minds. His claws were digging in my hands and mine were doing the same. He was powerful and I could feel his yoki and it was stronger than that of Naraku. I had to withdraw and jerked in his arms.

“Let me go!” I screamed.

His eyes had flashed red and I fought against him. He was determined as to exactly what I did not know. He fought me to the ground and pressed a hand to my belly.

“Do not harm my pup!” I snarled.

“No I would never harm an innocent. I saw your pup flare its power. If it felt that I would harm you would it not have done so again?” he asked softly.

A warmth spread across my belly and I felt him connect with my pup in my womb. I gasped and I felt it. I struggled a little but I felt the warmth spread.

“What are you doing?” I asked in a panic.

“Connecting with the babe. It is very powerful already but it needs to feel love and warmth from outside as well as from within.” He said quietly.

“You are not its sire!” I snapped.

“You should have been bonding with it already. I can reach it easily.” He said pressing his hand against my stomach again and the warmth and joy spread over me.

He lowered his fangs again and bit me and I gasped. I felt safe and utterly blissful at the moment and did not shield one bit. I could feel stroking and prodding of my conscious and I was becoming heated too quickly. He was touching my memories of Sheng and washing calm over me.

“No!” I moaned in a tortured whisper.

I arched my back under the onslaught and I could feel his surprise at my reactions. I was not what he expected and he was trying to coax the calm from me and I felt his truly honorable intentions. He wanted to bring me peace and help me cope with the loss of my beloved. He truly believed he was responsible for my well being and the boys as well. He regretted not knowing his baby brother and I reversed the connection on him. To say shock was an understatement. He washed more calm over me and I could see how truly powerful these hybrid inu must be. He was prodding again and my pup let loose the warmth and happiness and I realized that the pup was happy to be connected with. I moaned again and I arched under the onslaught. He lifted his head from my neck and did not break the mental connection. I had not felt this since Sheng and I pulled Jin's head down and devoured his mouth. He was shocked and tried to pull away.

-This is not what I intended!-he said in my mind.

-Put up or shut up! - I growled in his mind.

I sucked on his lower lip and he tried to withdraw from the connection.

-Did you intend to have me as a mate in name only? - I asked furiously.

-Only to help! - He thought to me.

I let him withdraw and he sat up. He looked at me and shook his head.

“I am insulted! You did not think that I was that accomplished of a telepath.” I said sneering at him.

“I have my duty and honor Lady Asuna!” he said.

“You want my memories?” I said in an angry voice.

“I want peace for you.” He said shrugging.

I wanted to hurt him for forcing me to open to him. I was behind him quickly and I sank my own fangs into his neck. He continued to underestimate me and it pissed me off to the point of being reckless. His powerful blood exploded on my tongue and I opened the flood gates of my memories of Sheng. He was forced to watch as I had pressed my fang to his neck to the first time we had bonded in Shenyang. He saw how we had coupled the first time and he moaned under me.

-Stop! - He demanded.

-You wanted to see Sheng, so see him! - I snarled viciously in his mind.

I forced him to watch as he would make love to me and when the twins were conceived. He watched as the twins had been born and Sheng had been by my side. I withdrew from his mind and sat back against the tree exhausted. He stared at me and I glared at him.

“Never force me to open my mind again. You have no idea of how trained I am and how close Sheng and I were.” I snarled.

He continued to stare and I grew agitated. He was on me in a moment and had pressed me back into the forest floor. His body was pressed between my legs and he was staring down at me. His eyes were darker blue then Sheng's.

“That was a cruel thing to do Lady Asuna.” He said in a hoarse whisper.

“You wanted to know him! You saw him as I saw and felt him.” I sneered.

“Kami you made me see that!” he said in a tortured voice.

“You should not ask for what you do not want Lord Jin.” I said laughing in a nasty tone.

“You saw how I wrapped my thighs around his hips as he thrust into me?” I said furiously.

“Stop it!” he snarled.

“He would take me over and over till I could not breathe. Is that how you intended to comfort me?” I said laughing in a bitter tone.

“Stop it now!” he growled above me.

“You really have a need to see to my well being? You really want to take me on?” I snarled at him.

“This is not what I intended.” He said angrily.

“You said before that I had no choice. Do I still have no choice?” I taunted him.

“You still feel the pain, you will not allow me to take it away!” he snapped at me.

I pulled his head lower and ravished his mouth again. I ran my tongue along his fangs and the roof of his mouth. He growled into my mouth and I sucked on his tongue and I felt him kiss me back. Our lips slid against the other and I groaned. He pulled away from the heated display and shook his head.

“You are not rational right now.” He said hoarsely.

“Coward!” I sneered at him.

“Now who wants what?” he demanded of me.

He was still pressed between my legs and I was burning again. I slammed my yoki against his and dipped into his mind demanding and lusting to feel his own memories.

“What are you doing?” he cried softly.

I did not answer and I pressed against his shields feeling for a weakness. I pressed harder and felt his resolve weaken. He pressed his lips against my throat and he licked my pulse point. I let my shields fall and he shuddered and groaned. I was going to tease him and punish him for his arrogance. I continued to press against his weakening shields. He was powerful and I wanted him to suffer as he made me do. I ripped open the top part of his pein fu and started licking along his collar bone and up his neck. He growled intensely and I scraped a claw against his chest and drew blood and I lapped at it with my tongue.

“Stop.” He said repressing his beast.

“Take me away from this anguish and death!” I cried as I gave in.

He pulled away from me and shut his eyes. I snarled at him and shoved at him. He sat back against the tree and I glared at him. I knew his threat to take me as his mate had been a falsehood intended to bend me to his will. It had backfired and he was reeling from my responses. I knew he had intentions of mating a bitch from his own lands and I smirked at his conflict. He was nearly seven centuries old and he radiated power. I moved and straddled his hips. His eyes snapped open and his eyes were tinged pink. I latched my lips onto his and coaxed him to a feverish response. I pushed the top of his pein-fu down and trailed open mouthed kisses down his neck and his torso. His breathing was heavy and I watched his reactions. He was fighting his own traitorous body and it pleased me to no end. I tongued one his flat nipples and sucked on it. He grabbed my shoulders and I admired his massive control. I reached between us and felt his stiffened desire. He straightened abruptly at my soft caress. I gently sliced open the rich silk and his eyes widened.

“Do you think you can handle me now Lord Jin?” I asked in a sultry tone.

I brushed my finger tips against his staff and I could see yearning flit across his features. I moved down his body and lowered my head and ran my tongue along his throbbing flesh. His breathing was uneven and I knew he wanted me to stop and continue at the same time; I chose to continue. I took his head into my mouth and he growled in almost a pained voice. I sucked him very gently and mindful of my razor sharp fangs.

“Kamis!” he snarled in pleasure.

I ran my tongue on the underside along his sensitive flesh and would take him into my mouth alternately.

-I only wish to help you. - I whispered in his head.

He looked down at my impertinence and I smiled as I lavished attention to his manhood. His eyes were a little redder and he watched me as I took more of him into my mouth. I felt him strain as I knew he wanted to thrust into my mouth and I took the decision from him and took all of him into my waiting throat. He hissed and he did thrust into my mouth and I wrapped my lips around his staff and created a torturous pressure. I reached down between his slightly parted thighs and gently rolled his stones between fingers and ran my claws with no pressure up his scrotum. He thrust harder against my mouth and I heard him growl and almost a whine escape his lips. His thrusts were becoming urgent and I stopped and removed myself as I slowly dragged my fangs against his soft velvety length.

“Bitch!” he hissed.

I smiled at him and knew my point had been driven home. He was almost feral and I watched him as he leaned forward. I had managed to make a normally calm and friendly taiyouki ready to decapitate me. In my opinion it served him right for telling me what my future was to be. He had forced his way into my mind and revenge was a bitch. He pressed me back down into the forest floor and jerked my tunic up and it pooled around my thighs. His eyes were burning scarlet and he felt my readiness as he a claw along my slit. He was going to take me roughly that I could tell. He was not used being denied release and I smirked at him. His hand wrapped around my jaw and I took his thumb in my mouth and he snarled. I sucked on his appendage and his claw nicked my tongue. He could not contain his noises and he slid into me sharply. It was a painful pleasure and he shut eyes as he pounded into me. I had been dripping wet and the friction was causing my center to be on fire and I actually called out his name. He looked down and his eyes were burning as were mine. He thrusts continued to be sharp and I started panting.

“You will submit to me!” he growled.

“Never!” I cried out as he changed his angle somewhat.

He slipped from my depths and forcefully turned me over until I was on my hands and knees. I had not been taken in the traditional way in a long time and I pushed my bottom against him and growled at him in anger. He reentered me and I threw my head back. He was rough and gentle at the same time and I moaned loudly. He ran his fingertips along my nether lips and I tightened around him. He groaned and as he found my distended nub and rolled it between his thumb and forefinger gently and he thrusts were sharp and intense. My walls were sending jolts and spasms of powerful sensations of mind numbing and sensual aching. My claws dug into the ground and I entered his mind. He moaned in thought and out loud. I wanted to feel him entirely and my whole body and mind screamed for release. I did the one thing I swore I would never do and I bared my neck to him. I could feel his pleasure and shock at my move and he lowered his fangs to my pulse point. He still thrust into me and pinched my clitoris and I whined.

“Do it. Kami do it!” I said almost sobbing.

He was not biting down and I screamed in frustration. His stamina was incredible and my own was faltering. I had to fall to my elbows and Jin snarled at the change in angle. His thrusts started hitting a spot and my senses were overwhelmed. My body tightened forcefully and released so powerfully that I did not contain my yoki and memories at all and he groaned under the onslaught. He put his lips at my juncture again and I screamed his name in my release and I felt his urgent thrusting. He roared loudly as he spilled his seed and he bit into my forcefully but it caused me to spasm and tighten around him again. I did pass out briefly but awoke truly having a rested heart. Fillip had started the healing of my heart but I was loathe to admit Jin had finished it. He had laid us down and spooned me and had a hand on my belly.

“Let me up.” I demanded.

“No.” he said in a tired voice.

“You started this you know.” I accused.

“I also finished it.” He retorted.

“I said let me up.” I demanded.

“If this is the part where you run away and face consequences another day, then no I will not let you up.” He said tightening his grip.

I cursed him in my mind and pushed against him.

“You do not own me you arrogant bastard.” I said furiously.

“I do not? You submitted to me, heart and soul. I do not own you but you belong to me.” He said in a dangerous tone.

“Let me go!” I snarled.

“You will not deny me Lady Asuna. You played a dangerous game and I will not allow you to bully and force me out of your life.” He said in an even tone.

“Let me up or I swear I will injure you.” I said nearly screaming.

He forced me on my back and I marveled at his physical strength. He lowered his lips to my ear.

“You tipped my hand and made me mate you. I had no intentions of doing that as I had made political arrangements to mate a perfectly beautiful and obedient bitch. Your sons will be my sons as is our custom.” He said sternly.

I grew furious and thrilled at his words. I had mortified myself at my responses.

“Go mate your beautiful and obedient bitch and leave me alone.” I hissed.

“Do not tempt me.” He retorted.

I snarled at him and he lowered his lips to mine and I groaned underneath him. He worked his devilish lips against mine and I to my own horror grew aroused again.

“You are still so young.” he said as he looked at my face.

“I am old enough to hate you!” I hissed at him.

“I underestimated you because of your youth, I will never make that mistake again.” He murmured.

“You will not tell me what I will do!” I snapped furiously.

“I can and I will. You have much to do as do I. I warn you that I will kill the hanyou if he dares touches one strand on your gorgeous head.” He said standing and pulling me with him.

“How dare you!” I went to slap him.

He caught my hand and suggestively licked my fingers and I suppressed my rising ardor.

“As I said my Lady, you play very dangerous games and think you can hide behind your father's house. I am almost as old as your esteemed sire. If you thought to dismiss this inu then you were sorely mistaken.” He said flatly.

“What makes you think I will go anywhere with you?” I said defiantly.

“Sooner or later you will burn for me and only I will be able to fill you. You will feel that void that you did with Sheng but I can and will make you whole.” He said suggestively.

“You are so sure of yourself.” I said sarcasticlly.

“I am positive of myself and now I am sure of you. I will not have to force you, you will seek me out.” He said smugly.

“Go mate your harlot.” I said gouging my palms.

“That would only be a distraction.” He said smirking.

I slapped him and he stepped back.

“I have my brother and mother to lay to rest. I will be expecting you.” He said as he disappeared.

Bastard would think he was sure of me. I had upped the ante but his arrogance had deserved it. I refused to seek him out as he suggested and maybe he would go mad at the separation himself. I transformed into my energy sphere and left the area.