InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Before Medieval Times ( Chapter 33 )

A/n: I do not own Inuyasha, Rumikio Takahashi does.

 

Before Medieval Times

 

I was in Wallachia again and I felt as though my skin crawled. I hated the country side and I hated the memories that assaulted me. I withdrew some from Tekeshi and Naraku. The ancient city of Babylon had given us no answers and I grew more frustrated. I knew that Vlad could be killed but he truly seemed impervious to most wounds. I had to keep my mental barriers intact almost all the time; the uppyr king still managed to invade my unconscious mind at times. I could see the castle in the distance and physically shuddered at the memories.

“I hate this place.” I muttered softly.

“I know my love. We are here to destroy him not to relive the events.” Naraku said softly.

“I want his blood running in rivers and his heart pierced by my fang.” I said in a dark and morose tone.

“You are allowing the events to consume you again Asuna.” Naraku remarked.

“This coming from you who joined with the jewel to retrieve me.” I said softly.

“I did what I had to do.” He remarked with vehemence.

“You did it because you love me.” I said with a soft voice

“Hai I did.” He responded.

“I need to vanquish him and be done with it.” I said moving forward with purpose.

“Do you suppose him to still be in that cursed castle?” Tekeshi asked me.

“He would indeed be foolish to be there. This has been his power base for centuries. I imagine we may find some answers there.” I responded.

“Hai. Let us go then. We are not to separate at all. He may not be there but who knows what lurks there.” Tekeshi said.

Naraku touched Tekeshi and I on the arms and we were consumed by his miasma. We reappeared in the courtyard of the castle. I moved forward and kept my presence masked and aura quashed. My mates followed me and I entered the massive stone structure. Old blood assaulted our senses and I continued moving forward. I moved through the throne room and looked down at where the orgies had taken place. I scowled and my cheeks burned at the memory of the ningen's blood. I shook my head to clear my thoughts and moved through the vile room and went up the stone staircase and took them two at a time. I was going to the creature's room and the location of my violation. I opened the door it and stepped in. Stale blood assaulted me and some of it scented of mine. I looked at Tekeshi and his eyes were burning as well as Naraku's. On the floor was one of my dirks. I went over and picked it up and looked at it. Anger twisted in my gut when I realized that Vlad had not been here in months.

“I am going to reverse the bastard's connection on me. I am going to find him and end it.” I whispered fiercely.

“Asuna I think that unwise aijou. I must say that I am impressed with how your abilities have advanced but he still is ancient.” Tekeshi pointed out.

“Maybe he cannot be killed but we can seal him away.” Naraku suggested.

“How?” I asked in anger.

“I am unsure my dear but he must have some weakness. Maybe if you were to drain him of his blood? If he is in a weakened condition we could bind him someway?” my hanyou suggested.

“I like your idea. I wonder if Totosai could make some sort of tomb.” I wondered.

“You would have to draw him out.” Tekeshi said nervously.

“That would not be hard. All I would have to do is allow him into my mind. He wants me to pay for his perceived injustices. I think I would rather enjoy taunting him. He is getting stronger but it is a good idea to strike before he is fully healed.” I commented.

“Aijou your need for revenge is understandable but do not become reckless because of it.” Tekeshi said smoothly.

“I understand Tekeshi. Believe me I have gone over different scenarios in my mind for months.” I commented moving around the room.

I walked over to a large bureau and opened drawers. In the bottom drawer I withdrew a volume. It was bound in old leather and I turned it over and opened the ancient pages. My eyes widened as I read the language that was close to Russian.

“Gotcha!” I snapped.

Tekeshi and Naraku moved closer to me and I looked up at them with a smile on my face.

“This is diary of sorts.” I said looking triumphant.

“Come let us leave this place. It is disgusting.” Naraku said with a sneer.

I nodded and stood. Tekeshi held me and we ported out of there followed by Naraku. We settled at the base of the mountain and under the watchful eyes of both the males I loved more than my own life; I read.

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`We are being over run by the Romans and their damnable Emperor Trajan. Everywhere we turn there is another Italian mortal for us to trip over. I have managed to keep them out of the Carpathians but these little brutish humans have balls.'

I looked up from the passage and jerked my head for Tekeshi to come over. He came and sat by me.

“What is the time frame of the mortal named Trajan? Vlad says here that was a Roman and an emperor.” I asked.

“That would have been at the turn of the second century. The year ninety nine or one hundred if my memory serves me correctly.” He answered.

“It seems these Romans were encroaching into this part of Europe and the uppyr had to hold them back.” I said.

“They were a very aggressive and warlike race of mortals. They rival some of the shogunate in Japan now. They were highly organized and their military was vast.” He commented.

“Fascinating. He speaks of them extensively for several centuries. It seems they were a massive headache for him.” I remarked with mirth.

“They knew of youki and dealt with them some. Even some of their religions were based on the worship of youki.” He said shrugging.

“These people knew things that we do not. They had ways of driving back the uppyr and actually fighting Vlad and his ilk.” I said considering.

“I know what you are thinking and it is not wise.” Tekeshi said firmly.

Naraku came over and sat by us. His eyes were hard and I knew he took the opposite view. I looked at them both and waited.

“He would be less of a threat there and if she could seek the knowledge to at least seal him away.” Naraku said firmly.

“Naraku my friend these mortals are of a different breed than the normal ningen we know.” Tekeshi said flatly.

“I think your need to protect her is clouding your judgment Tekeshi. Right now we cannot defeat the creature. His regeneration abilities are far more powerful than any youki I have seen.” Naraku remarked.

“I am sorry but she carries my pup; I have a need to protect her.” Tekeshi said defensively.

“You think I could not protect myself?” I asked my inu mate.

“I think that you have been weakened in the past by the miko blood that runs through my veins.” He said narrowing his eyes.

“Tekeshi, we have to see if she can go. She will never be safe and neither will your pup if he is not defeated.” Naraku said reasonably.

“It is folly I tell you!” Tekeshi said in anger.

“Tekeshi we both love this onna. I have no wish to lose her because of the obsession of this blood drinker. He had me watch as he raped her. Do you understand that this needs to end?” Naraku said standing.

Tekeshi nodded but kept his mouth shut. Any decision that was made would prove difficult. Naraku had seen what I could do and the fact that he thought we could not defeat him spoke volumes. Tekeshi glared at Naraku but nodded again grimly.

“I respect you inu; I do not normally respect your kind but I do respect you. You and I will back her up and she will find the answer. We have an empire to build remember?” Naraku stated with conviction.

“Hai my friend we do. You speak with knowledge but I still do not like it.” Tekeshi said irritated.

“You can be the voice of reason and I shall be the brash one in our little group. I have no fear taking some risks but know I do it very calculated.” The hanyou said.

“I remember the stories Naraku.” Tekeshi stated thinly.

I stood and held onto both of them. I pulled Tekeshi into a hug and Naraku too.

“We shape our futures after this beast is dead. We belong to each other and our shared destinies.” I murmured.

“Hai.” They agreed at the same time.

“Come we must find Tamiko.” Tekeshi said.

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“I have known you along time Tekeshi and what I say is the truth. The Lady Asuna must travel by herself. You angered your son to the point that he will attack.” Tamiko said softly.

“Stupid pup!” Tekeshi growled.

“Will I be safe?” I asked.

“You will return and your pup will be born.” She answered.

“So I will face danger.” I mumbled.

“You face danger here my Lady.” Tamiko said.

“I understand. Where exactly will I be?” I asked.

“You will be in the era of these mortals but you will be in Japan. I cannot conjure a portal that big.” She said with a soft smile.

“Well I guess now is as a good time as any.” I stated.

Tamiko handed me an amulet and I looked confused.

“You must guard this as I do not exist that far back.” She said with a smile.

“I understand.” I said.

I moved to Tekeshi and kissed him softly then I went to Naraku who held me tightly. He kissed my head and I nodded.

“Please take care aijou.” Tekeshi said to me.

“Hai please take care.” Naraku echoed the sentiment.

I nodded my head at both and Tamiko broke her amulet and I passed through.

“She will be alright. The answers always are the past as history repeats itself.” She stated.

“Tamiko quit with the cryptic crap. What are you trying to say?” Tekeshi said annoyed.

“You will figure it out my friend. The Kamis do not always reveal their exact intentions.” Tamiko said.

Tekeshi growled and bowed to his long time friend. Naraku and he left the witch's home and he prayed his mate would be safe.

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I was in a period that the mortals referred to as the Yayoi Period. Youki were more prevalent than in my era and ruled the island without interference from the ningen. I looked around and it was wilder than I had ever seen it. I moved with purpose and moved in the direction of the West and the coast. I could travel in my energy sphere form faster when I did reach the coast. I made sure to keep my aura and scent masked. I sensed many lower level youki; I tended to stay off the beaten path and the many youki auras had me reeling. It would take me several days to reach the coast. I transformed into my inu form and stuck to the forests. I could hunt and move swiftly at the same time. I allowed my beast free reign and had not eaten this well in a long while. I would avoid strong auras and sleep under the cover of darkness. I slept blissfully and without having to shield my mind. The temptation to stay here was almost strong but I would miss Naraku and Tekeshi too much. I contemplated my failed relationship with Jin and hated how I could not seem to love him enough. I had pretty much abandoned him and he had to know at this point. I growled softly and looked around. I had felt many passing auras but they had a tendency to stay away from predator youki like inu. I caught the sight of a strange being and my curiosity was piqued. I put my nose to the ground and moved forward. My curiosity often got the better of me but I could not help my nature. I watched a white haired male battle a boar youki. I knew he felt my presence as I could not mask my aura or scent in this form. He wore the garb of a higher ranking ningen but it truly did not make sense in this era. The ningen were fairly primitive. I sat and watched with my head cocked to the side. He was a master with his blade and the boar was easily dispatched. The being turned to me and looked straight into my scarlet eyes. His own eyes were a soft brown and he bore no markings whatsoever.

“I have no wish to dispatch you too.” He muttered.

I transformed into my humanoid form and raised a silver brow.

“That is amusing. I mean no offense or harm. I felt your aura and I was intrigued.” I stated.

“I have no time for a youki.” He said.

“Are you a shikyo konjou?” I asked in surprise.

“What do you want inu?” he asked softly.

“Are you shikyo konjou?” I asked again.

“Hai I am and I have many matters that require my attention.” He said as he moved away.

Shikyo Konjou were lower level Kami and they protected the ningens. I thought they had been myth but there was one in front of me. He looked mortal enough but he had more spiritual energy than my Aunt Kagome did.

“I am Asuna.” I said.

“You are a youki; why should I converse with you?” he asked in a rigid tone.

“Because it is rude not to do so and I have ningen blood in my family.” I said lightly.

“My name is Teruyoshi.” He said bowing.

“A kami.” I said amazed.

“I gather you have never seen one before?” he asked amused.

“No I have never seen one.” I said sitting.

“You are a not a mindless beast. You are a taiyouki are you not?” he asked.

“Hai I am a taiyouki. What is exactly your purpose?” I asked intrigued.

“I thought that rather obvious.” He said again in an amused tone.

“You have a sense of humor, how amusing.” I said smiling.

“A youki that can appreciate a sense of humor; you are quite odd.” He said sitting on rock.

I had no idea that a kami could be so personable. He was quite a beautiful creature and actually quite pleasing to look at.

“I like to smile on occasion. I try and limit my mayhem to enemies or wild game.” I said with a smirk.

“You are truly quite odd. I have tarried in the world too long. Good day to you.” He said sheathing his weapon.

“Good day and morrow to you kami-sama.” I said bowing.

“You are like no youki I have ever faced. You are even bordering on respectful.” He said coming closer.

“When faced with a demigod would you not be?” I asked arching a brow.

“Most youki are arrogant and full of themselves.” He said crossing his arms over his chest.

“I did not say that I was not superior but I can be respectful.” I said with a half smile.

He looked at me and burst out laughing. I stood and bowed.

“I hope to run into you again Teruyoshi-sama.” I said bowing again.

“Hai you are an interesting diversion.” He said in return.

I moved on and I felt him following me. I turned and looked at him and his face was full of mirth. I wondered if the poor being was bored out of his mind.

“You are following me. I promise I do not eat ningen. My uncle is a hanyou.” I said smirking at him.

“You are from the islands but then you are not. You are too normal for any taiyouki I have met.” He said strolling next to me.

“Well I am actually on my way to the coast so that I may make my way to a peninsula called Italy.” I said lightly.

“Why would you go there?” he asked.

“I have questions that need answers and that is the only place I can find them.” I answered.

“That is a long journey. I can take you there quickly enough.” He offered.

“Why would you do that for a stranger?” I asked.

“Because it seems I may have a slight adventure and I am all for that. The others can fill in for me.” He said with a shrug.

“Others?” I asked in shock.

“Hai. There are many of my kind. You are not the only taiyouki either.” He said.

“I think you as odd as you do me.” I remarked.

“No matter. I get tired of killing mindless youki all day.” He said with a smile.

“Teruyoshi-sama you are an odd being.” I said with a laugh.

“Hai the same could be said of you.” He retorted.

We walked in silence and I had a feeling this minor kami would actually become a friend.

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Teruyoshi had kept his word and had brought me to Italy quickly. I had no intentions of rutting with him but did enjoy looking at him. He was actually very friendly and very outgoing. My image of a shikyo konjou was a being that should be austere and cold. He was in fact the total polar opposite. He and I were sitting in an inn in the town of Neopolis. I had no knowledge of the language known as Latin. I spoke Russian but I did not see that as getting me far. Teruyoshi and I spoke in Japanese and we were being watched. I was studying a map of the peninsula and drinking a deep red wine that was bitter. I had pulled my hair over my ears and tied it back to blend a little better with the ningens. The stink was appalling and the kami laughed at me. I leveled him a glare and he still smirked.

“I do not speak their language that is a problem do you not think?” I asked in annoyance.

“This empire is huge. I imagine there is someone that would be able to speak Russian and a dialect of Chinese.” He said with a shrug.

“I imagine you have duties that require your attention.” I said looking at him.

“I will get back soon. I shall like to see this city of Rome first.” He said again shrugging.

“Honestly speaking do you not find the ningen rather filthy creatures? I understand protecting them but to actually have to be around them all the time?” I asked wrinkling my nose.

“You say this in a tavern full of soldiers and men. Besides your sense of smell is keener than most creatures Asuna.” He said with a laugh.

A female ningen came over and made motions with her hands to see if I wanted more wine. I nodded yes and I laid a small amount of gold on the table. I looked at her and nodded my thanks.

“I thank you.” I said in Russian.

She looked at me and shook her head. I sighed and nodded. Before I had left I had not thought on the language barrier. Teruyoshi looked at me shrugged.

“You must be a younger sibling.” I said in annoyance.

“Hai I am.” He said.

“Kamis have offspring?” I asked.

“We are guardians or spirits if you will. Our plane of existence mirrors the real world as we call it. We reproduce just like any other creature.” He said smiling.

“I see.” I said with a nod.

“This Rome is a very big city. I imagine there is someone from the east.” He replied.

“I suppose we shall have to be there to find out. There is the city.” I said pointing to the map.

“We can reach that in but a few hours.” He replied.

“Fine then let is be off.” I said.

I drained the glass of wine and stood. Teruyoshi followed suit and two ningen males stood as well. One was blond and blue eyed and the other had black hair and blue eyes. They were speaking to me but I did not understand their words but I understood their intentions.

“You will not stop me from defending my honor?” I asked the kami.

“No I will not. This should prove entertaining.” He said with a smirk.

One of the brutes tried to grab my breasts and I caught his hand and squeezed. He yelped in pain and yelled out. The other one went for my throat. I pulled my dirk from my boot and held it to his throat. I raised a brow and they both backed up from me. I wore my typical haori and hakamas. I did not have on my armor as it had started to get uncomfortable to wear.

“Bastards.” I said under my breath.

“Come inu.” Said the shikyo konjou.

I followed him out of the inn and we walked on for awhile. I was carrying a small bag with the Vlad's journal in it and a change of clothes. I carried gold too but that was within my haori. Silk was only afforded by the very rich even in this era. I knew the ningen were staring at me but I kept myself aloof. We made it into a forest and I transformed us into my sphere. We moved through the skies and made it to the city in hours. I landed us outside of the city and we moved with the influx of people that flowed into the city gates. The city was more massive than anything I had ever seen. I looked around at the huge marble and concrete buildings and was amazed. Teruyoshi bowed to me and I knew he was leaving. I smiled at him and bowed. He returned the bow and I saw him blend into the crowds. I had a feeling that I would see the kami again. I looked around and listened to the strange languages being spoken. I moved into an area that housed a bazaar of sorts. I saw someone point at me and I raised a brow. It was a man that wore a strange garment that was edged in purple. My appearance was very strange to the ningen and I could not sense one youki. I bowed to the man and raised a brow.

“Gashi.” I said.

He looked at me and I knew he had no idea what I said. I sighed in frustration and turned to move away. The man moved forward and touched my arm. I jerked my arm back as if burnt. I looked at him disdainfully and he seemed surprised. I was unused to so many ningens and my delicate inu senses were on overload.

“Konichiwa.” I said to him.

He shook his head and I actually growled. I moved away and pushed my way through bodies. My fangs were at my hip and the idea of wiping a path with my Kumosaiga sounded good. I saw no one of Asian descent and I was horrified at my lack of understanding. Someone else touched me and I jerked back. There was that same man and another male stood by him.

“Can you speak Cantonese?” the darker skinned male asked.

“Thank the Kamis!” I cried in the Chinese dialect.

“I am Quintus and this is my master Junus Maximus Camillus.” He said.

“Thank your master and I am Reifujin Asuna; Daishou no Nishi. Please call me Lady Asuna.” I said to the servant.

He relayed the information in the language that was foreign to me. The man looked at me and seemed impressed.

“He wishes to know what languages you speak. I informed him that you were Japanese royalty.” Quintus.

“How did you know?” I asked arching a brow.

“I know what Reifujin is my Lady. I am from India.” He replied.

“I speak many of the dialects of China, Russian, and Japanese.” I informed him.

He again turned to the ningen male and I waited patiently. They spoke back and forth and I smirked in amusement.

“The General of the Rhine Legions knows this Slavic tongue.” Quintus said.

“What is his name?” I asked intrigued.

“Marcus Ulpius Trajanus.” The servant said.

“I would be most obliged to speak with him.” I said with a bow.

“The Romans are not as formal as an Asian court is my Lady.” The servant informed.

“I was raised with honor sir. I have need to speak with a military leader as it is. Please thank your master.” I said.

Again I waited as the servant explained to the Roman male. He pointed to a litter and I again raised a brow. Memories of Sheng assaulted me and I shook my head no.

“Inform him I will walk.” I stated stiffly.

The Roman stared at me and I bowed again.

“He is intrigued by you carrying swords my Lady. I too wonder. Are you a warrior?” Quintus asked.

“Hai I am.” I answered.

The three of us moved and I saw we were headed to another portion of the city. It seemed we were moving into a more affluent area. I noticed public bath houses and wished that the majority of the city would cleanse themselves.

“What displeased you about the litter?” he asked.

“It is a lazy way of travel. The Kamis gave me good legs and I can walk.” I stated flatly.

We walked on for over an hour and we made it to a large building. There were soldiers and I was openly gawked at. The Roman spoke with guards and we were admitted into the dwelling. I followed silently and we were brought into a large open room that held many chaise lounges. Quintus bade me to sit and I did. I observed a fairly young man enter the room. He was tall for a ningen and had short cropped black hair and blue eyes. He looked me over after speaking with the one known as Junus. He wore a tunic of dark blue that was embroidered with leaves of some kind. He sat on a chaise across from me and nodded to me.

“You speak Russian my Lady.” He stated.

“Hai I mean yes. I am from the islands known as Japan. I am the Lady Asuna.” I said in Russian.

“I am Marcus Trajanus.” He stated.

“I thank you for seeing me. I will be blunt and to the point; I have recently come across information that leads me to believe that your people have knowledge on how to defeat my enemy.” I said.

“You are a long way from your home.” He stated.

“My need to defeat my nemesis is great indeed.” I said staring at his blue eyes.

“You are blunt. I will see if I can help. My friend says that you are royalty?” he stated.

“It matters not. What name do I call you?” I asked.

“Call me Trajan everyone else does.” He said with a smile.

“Alright Trajan. Could we perhaps discuss everything in detail in private?” I asked.

“Yes that would be acceptable.” He stood and went and spoke with his friend and the servant named Quintus.

I stood up and went to an open window that faced a garden. I was exhausted and hungry; I was also among a city full of ningen. The other two males left and I looked over my shoulder at the ningen general. He was looking at me with interest and I returned his perusal.

“You have questions so ask them.” I told him.

“You are a very strong woman and you wear swords on your person.” He observed.

“Do you have a blade?” I asked.

“Yes of course.” He replied.

“Your people use a short broadsword.” I said wrinkling my nose.

I pulled my old fang and threw it to him. He caught it and looked at it closely. I pulled the Kumosaiga and bowed.

“Are you challenging me?” he asked surprised.

“Let us make a wager.” I said with a smirk.

“What should we wager Lady Asuna?” he asked smiling widely.

“I win you save me the trouble of finding accommodations…you win I tell you everything you ever wanted to know about monsters.” I said smirking.

“So there are dragons in the orient?” he asked amused.

I bowed again and fell back into a battle stance. He watched me and his eyes widened when he truly realized that I was trained in sword play.

“That blade is lighter than one you are used to but I dare say it is stronger.” I said as he too fell into a defensive stance.

“You are not afraid that we will damage things in here?” Trajan asked.

“My objective is checking your weapon not your furniture.” I said sarcasticlly.

“You are mouthy.” He said in a delighted tone.

“Prepare yourself General.” I snapped.

There was a fairly open area in the center of the room and I moved there. He was not taking me seriously so I moved on him. I twisted around and brought the Kumosaiga hard against my other fang. The metal rang out as he blocked. He seemed impressed at the blade and I rapidly struck; he blocked every one. I kept myself in check because he would truly be no match for my youki strength or speed. I decided to end it quickly and fell to my knee and swept a leg and tripped him. He fell on his arse and I smirked down at him as he glared up at me.

“All is fair.” I stated.

“You have been trained very well. I daresay you could take on any of my soldiers.” He said standing.

“I would probably win.” I said arrogantly.

“Why is a royal Lady trained to fight anyway?” he asked dusting off his tunic.

“You lead armies well so do I. My sire is Lord; I am his heir and I led my troops in battle every so often.” I said shrugging.

“You won so I guess I will be putting you up for now.” He said smiling at me.

“I thank you for your hospitality.” I said.

“Come the dinner hour grows near. I am sure you would like to bathe.” He stated heading toward an arched doorway.

“Yes that would be excellent!” I said with much enthusiasm.

He smirked at my display and I followed him. I liked this ningen and that was odd for me. It was probably because he was one of the few people here I could converse with. He showed me into some chambers that were simple but lavish at the same time. There was an open air about the whole dwelling and I liked it very much. It amazed me that buildings made entirely out of stone could have the same airy nature that a Japanese castle had. I looked around and noticed a huge marble tub at the center of the room. I walked over to it and dipped my fingers in and it was warm. I looked at him delighted and he smiled again.

“I know nothing about you except that you obviously enjoy bathing and you are a superior swordsman.” He said.

“I will tell you all you wish to know after I am clean. I have been traveling for days to reach this city Lord Trajan. I am so glad to have met someone I could converse with. I am terrible at body language and I have an even worse temper.” I stated looking up at him.

“What do your markings mean?” he asked bluntly.

“They are symbols of my status in the House of the Moon. My lands are called simply the West. Our largest city in the West is called Kyoto but the palace is fifty miles north of the city.” I told him.

“You are not called princess or majesty?” he asked curiously.

“I am the Lady Asuna. Some call me Asuna-sama. We are more formal in some respects and less in others. I would never dream to call my sire your highness or majesty.” I said laughing.

“Fascinating. I will leave you to your toilette.” He said with a bow.

I watched him lay my old fang on a table and leave the room. I looked around and I was alone. I removed the pins from my hair and it fell down my back. I removed my obi, haori, kosode, and hakamas. I heard someone coming and I looked over my shoulder. My hair covered my back and I saw the ningen general stop and his mouth dropped.

“I am not shy my lord Trajan. You may speak.” I said in a soft voice.

“I thought you would wait on a servant; I am sorry. I have a serving girl here for your needs.” He stammered.

“I can bathe myself but thank you.” I said with amusement in my eyes.

The poor man shifted from one foot to the other and I stood there with my back to him.

“This is where you vacate so I can bathe and then be presentable General.” I stated with mirth.

“Yes. The serving girl is outside and her name is Lucilla.” He said then retreated.

I laughed lightly and went to the water and sank into its depths. I sighed in bliss at the heated liquid. I put my hands on my belly and growled very low; Tekeshi and I's pup moved under my fingers. I closed my eyes and laid my head back. I did not want to have to explain too much. My markings I could explain away because I was from another land but my ears and other things could not be explained. I had no wish to frighten the mortals. I looked over and saw a bowl that had some delicious smelling herbs in it. I moved to it and found soaps. They were heavenly smelling and I grabbed a piece of the cleanser and soaped up my body. I rinsed and stood and found a drying cloth. I walked over to my bag and pulled out my spare clothing. The silk was in a pale blue with silver accents. I used the cloth to absorb the excess water in my hair. I pulled out a silver obi and pulled on the clothes. I needed to eat before I passed out. I braided my hair and made sure it covered my ears. I leaned down and pulled my black boots on and I stood. I left the room and wandered around the dwelling. I heard words in Latin being spoken and I followed the voices. I entered the main room again and I saw General Trajan speaking with a soldier. The other man openly gawked at me. I stared right back and Trajan seemed annoyed at his soldier. He hit his arm for his impertinence.

“You may tell your soldier that I have become used to the stares that your people direct toward me but I assure him that I am quite common where I am from.” I said lightly.

I watched as Trajan relayed the comment and I paid attention to the words being spoken. The soldier looked up and actually smirked at me.

“I take it that he finds that amusing.” I said sardonically.

“This is one of the tribunes of the Twelfth Legion. His name is Tiberius Lucius Septimus.” He introduced me.

I bowed to the blond soldier and he followed suit. I cocked my head to the side and looked over the soldier and his armor. I came closer and ran a finger along the bird of prey on the chest.

“I believe he may piss himself in a minute Lady Asuna.” Trajan said laughing.

“That would be most inconvieant. You said the dinner hour grew near correct?” I asked.

“Yes.” He confirmed and nodded to his tribune to leave.

“Might I ask what we are having?” I asked.

“Mutton as the main course.” He said.

I mouthed the word mutton and shook my head in the negative.

“Sheep my Lady. It is a nicer word for the poor beast.” He said again laughing.

“Meat I see. Good.” I said joining his laugh.

“While we are waiting could you tell me more of your situation and who your enemy is?” He asked.

“Yes.” I replied.

“Who is your enemy and where is he?” he asked.

“He has several different names but the one I know is Vlad. His birth name is Eyal and I do know he was raised in a place called Babylon.” I said.

“Eyal is a Hebrew name. Where is he now?” he asked.

“In an area called Wallachia and the Carpathian Mountains. There is a fairly large town called Bucharest that is not too far from the River Danube.” I described.

“That is Dacia!” he exclaimed.

“You know the area.” I said.

“Yes they are aggressive peoples.” He exclaimed.

“Vlad is ensconced in the mountains. There are indications that you Romans are making his life miserable.” I said with a malicious smirk.

“What has he done to your people?” Trajan asked.

“This is not political General it is personal.” I said looking away.

“Please call me Trajan.” He said.

“Alright Trajan.” I answered.

“I will need to speak with the veterans that served along the Danube and hopefully find the information you seek. Might I ask what exactly happened?” he asked softly.

“It is of no consequence now Trajan. He is powerful and dangerous.” I said standing.

“My guests will be arriving very soon Lady Asuna. Should you like to eat now or with my company?” the general asked.

“I shall like to eat now if that is all right.” I said.

“Come I shall have a meal prepared and brought in here.” He stated.

“Thank you. I prefer my meat as rare as possible if that is alright.” I asked.

“I will see to it.” He said standing and leaving the room.

I looked around and there were many servants milling about but none spoke to me. I looked at the statues and how lifelike they were. I had really only seen statues of the Buddha or various other Kamis. I touched the marble and it felt cold. I sighed and felt the exhaustion overcome me. I felt the general's presence and turned. He held a tray of food and I looked at him famished. I quashed my beast and went and sat down. He set the tray on a table and I looked at the food. There was the mutton accompanied by long green spear like vegetables. There was also bread and some kind of oil. I looked up at him and he sat down by me.

“What do you normally eat?” he asked softly.

“My favorite is wild boar or deer. We also eat rice and a lot of broth.” I said looking bewildered.

“The olive oil is for the bread and the vegetable is called asparagus.” He said.

The meat had actually been cut into bite sized pieces and I picked one up and tasted it. I was used to wild game but it was flavorful. I tore a chunk of the bread off and dipped it into the oil. I tasted and found that it was quite pleasing. I looked at him and smiled. I picked up the asparagus spear and also tasted it. It was alright but the meat and bread were fabulous.

“I apologize but I am famished and I have not eaten well in several days.” I said.

“No actually it is a pleasure to watch you. I take for granted what I am used to. Your face lights up.” He observed.

“It is very delicious; I thank you.” I said popping more meat into my mouth.

I shut my eyes and gloried in the taste and I turned my head. I could scent the ningen's s light arousal but I ignored it. I was here to get information. He stood up and bowed; he left the room and I assumed it was to get ready for his banquet. I leaned forward and picked up a chalice and sipped watered down wine. I allowed myself to devour the rest of the mutton and bread. I downed the wine. I stood and had every intention of returning to my room. Trajan returned wearing a plain white tunic and a rich red toga that was embroidered in gold thread. I discerned a pattern of palm leaves on it and I stared at him.

“You are returning to your room?” he asked as if disappointed.

“I had planned on it. I have been gawked at enough for this day.” I said.

“It is just a meal with some of my officers. Several of them do speak the Slavic tongue. They have been along the frontiers for many years.” He stated.

“Then I shall join you.” I said.

“Come to the triclinium.” He stated.

“Hai.” I said reverting to Japanese.

“Hmmm?” he asked.

“Hai is an affirmation in the positive, very similar to yes.” I stated absently.

“I see.” He said smiling at me.

“That garment is very cumbersome.” I said pointing to his toga.

“Yes it can be but it is fashionable.” He laughed.

“I feel the same about kimonos.” I said with a small smile.

“Almost like a dressing gown but made of much heavier silk and it is worn as clothing. Yukata is used for sleeping and during the summer.” I said as we entered a large room with couches around a long table.

“Fascinating.” He replied.

“Not really.” I said laughing.

“The differences in our cultures fascinate me.” He stated.

“Clothing fascinates you?” I asked in mirth.

“You are not exactly a normal woman Lady Asuna.” He said looking at me.

“You do not know exactly from which I come. I am quite ordinary I assure you.” I said laughing loudly.

I looked around and there were several men already seated. They all sported short hair and various shades of togas. I went and reclined on a chaise. Trajan sat and nodded to all.

He introduced me in Latin and I inclined my head at the various officers. He spoke awhile in the other tongue and I appeared interested but was bored out of my mind. I fantasized about fighting a bloody battle or taking down large prey.

“These things are always boring when one does not understand the word is it not?” a brown haired officer asked me in Russian.

“I am assuming matters of import are being discussed. I know several different languages but sadly Latin is not one of them.” I said softly.

“I am Marius Titus Livius.” He said inclining his head.

“I am Asuna.” I said inclining my head also.

“You have caused a sensation in the court of the Emperor. It is said he wants to meet you himself. Trajan is a celebrated general and is quite young for one too.” He said in a conspiring tone.

“You sing his virtues. Let me guess you are a great friend.” I said smirking.

“Yes we have known each other since childhood. That would be a quarter century now.” He said with a smile.

I wanted to snort at the idea of a quarter century but I nodded solemnly. Trajan looked at me and caught my eyes. I picked up a goblet and sipped the watered down wine.

“He says you have an enemy in Dacia.” Marius asked me.

“Yes I do. My mother is Russian and her father was a minor prince. I killed my grandsire who was in alliance with Vlad.” I stated.

Those that spoke Russian stopped talking and looked at me. Trajan looked stunned and I raised an eyebrow.

“Why would you kill your grandfather?” he asked me.

“He was directly responsible for the death of my mate. My honor demanded that I avenge him.” I said shrugging.

I was stared at but I kept my cool. They did not understand honor or the reason for my actions.

“Your mate?” Trajan asked.

“Yes. He was killed in a battle at the foot of Mount Fuji. All responsible died by my hand.” I said tonelessly.

“You are good with a sword?” Another tribune asked.

“Excellent.” I said flatly.

“I am sorry for your loss.” Trajan said softly.

I closed my eyes and shut out the old pain. I kept myself calm and opened my eyes again. These ningen were different from what I was used to.

“General Trajan I find myself fatigued. I am glad to have met you all. I am retiring now.” I said as I stood.

“My Lady I am sorry that you have been offended.” Trajan said standing.

“It is an old pain. Have no worries for I am not offended. Your people do not understand the ways of my kind. I think I will take a stroll along the river.” I said bowing.

“It is dangerous at night.” He said.

“I am more than capable of taking care of would be robbers.” I said lightly.

I again bowed and turned on my heel. I walked from the dining area and went to the front door. I slipped out and disappeared into the night.

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /

I walked along the Tiber River and let myself take in the sights of this ancient city. It was an amazing city. I felt an aura of a youki. I turned and saw red eyes. I watched the beast and knew it was a lower level creature. I could not discern the type of beast but I pulled my fang. It snarled at me and I jumped back. He looked at me knowingly and I realized I was mistaken. This was not a lower level youki at all. He was an uppyr but one that oozed strength. He spoke but I did not understand his words.

“Shezmu.” He said pointing to himself.

I blinked and shook my head. His hair was black and his eyes were dark brown. His skin was tanned dark by the sun.

“Asuna.” I said pointing to myself.

He growled low but I sensed all hostility gone. He circled me and I sheathed my fang.

“Dog.” He murmured in Chinese.

“Inu.” I replied.

He grunted in response and I watched him.

“Inpu.” He stated coming closer.

“Hai.” I said understanding a little.

“Go!” he grunted.

He disappeared and I stood rooted and stunned. Wherever he was from he was trying to communicate with me. I moved back towards the dwelling of Trajan. He was coming out as I was fixing to go in. He looked up at me and seemed surprised.

“The Emperor wants to see you now.” Trajan stated.

“This late hour?” I said in annoyance.

“Yes. You do not make the Roman Emperor wait Lady Asuna.” He said pulling me along.

“I am tired!” I cried.

“Titus Flavius Domitianus waits for no man or woman.” Trajan said with a raised brow.

“Kamis sake General Trajan! I am exhausted. I look exotic and I cause a sensation?” I stated in annoyance.

“A warrior princess; that is only in myth here my Lady. They are asking if you are an Amazon.” Trajan said as we moved along the path.

“How far is this Emperor?” I muttered in annoyance.

“It will take ten minutes to reach his palace.” He stated.

“Does he speak Russian?” I asked.

“I will have to translate.” He answered.

I followed along in utter annoyance and we entered palatial grounds. There were guards that had on brass armor and feathered helmets. I rolled my eyes and followed the Roman General. We entered what appeared to be a throne room and Trajan bowed low. I followed suit and straightened my back. I looked up and saw a ningen man in his early thirties. He had light brown hair and large brown eyes. He seemed cut well and he looked down at me from his throne and seemed fascinated. I heard Trajan introduce me and I looked on as the Emperor asked questions.

“I have told him you are from islands off the coast of China. He wants to know names and places. If you speak then I shall translate.” Trajan said softly.

“This is utterly annoying. I am not a toy Trajan. If you have not noticed but I am pregnant and exhausted.” I said rolling my eyes.

“I had not noticed my Lady. You carry rather well.” He said in an admiring tone.

“I am from the main island of Honshu. My family rules most of the main island. We call our lands The West. My father's name is Sesshomaru and my mother's name is Augusta. I am the oldest of four. I am Asuna. My twin's name is Osamu, my youngest brother's name is Youshiro, and my baby sister's name is Yoshiko. I am the mother to Hiroto, Kazuo, Mizuki, and Ang Chi. Is that enough information and can I go to bed now?” I asked in a tired voice.

“You have more children?” he asked surprised.

“Yes.” I answered.

“Where is your spouse?” he asked in surprise.

“Ruling.” I stated.

He turned to the Emperor and spoke rapidly of what I spoke. The Emperor's eyes lighted up at the name of my mother.

“Augusta Elizaveta Irena Orlovich.” I muttered softly.

Trajan repeated the name and the Emperor motioned for me to come closer. I stepped forward and bowed again. He looked at me and he said something to Trajan. I looked at the Roman General expectantly.

“He says you are beautiful and wishes for you to stay at the palace as his guest.” Trajan said.

“Tell him that I am honored.” I said.

He repeated my words in Latin and I was determined to learn the language. Trajan again translated and I bowed.

“He says for you to stay the evening in my villa and we will install you here in the morning.” He stated.

“Supashi-bo!” I said bowing.

“Tell him that is thank you in Japanese.” I said standing straight.

The Emperor and nodded and I turned on my heel and walked away. I waited for the general and he gently grabbed my arm.

“Will you please give me an abbreviated history madam so that I can be of use to you?” He asked.

“Fine. I hate Vlad because he raped me and nearly broke me. He is distantly related through my mother and he wants me for my power. I have alliances and prestige all over the eastern coast of China and all over the islands. I have been espoused more than once and divorced as you call it. The mate of my soul died in a terrible battle. What else would you like to know Roman?” I said in sarcasm.

“How old are you?” he asked.

“Older than you.” I said in self disgust.

“No woman has ever wielded that much power that I have ever seen.” He replied.

“I only wish to kill Vlad. I do not care about anything else. My honor has been tarnished and he will not leave me alone. He got within feet of my offspring and I will rip the bastard's manhood straight off of him.” I said looking at him.

I turned away from Trajan and moved on foot down the path to his villa as it was called. He called after me but I reached a large tree and sat beneath it. I stared up at the sky and thought about everything. Trajan came and sat next to me and looked up with me.

“I will be going north again soon. Would you care to join me? The Dacians are making problems along the Danube and they need to be put down. Will your pregnancy prevent you from coming?” he asked.

“No it will not. I just want to find out what your military does to cause Vlad Tepest such angst. I want him to suffer the way he made me.” I said in anger.

“I will see if the Emperor will give me leave to go to the fronts within the month.” He said standing.

“That would be good. Can you teach me Latin? I think I should be able to pick up on it quickly.” I asked.

“It would be a pleasure to teach it to you.” He said bowing.

I stood and we walked silently back to his villa. I could not wait to head north to Wallachia. I looked forward to killing uppyr. I also wondered at the foreign uppyr known as Shezmu.

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /

I was laughing with the Emperor and Trajan as they were describing the antics of some of their battles. I had sped along my learning Latin by dipping into Trajan's mind as he taught me. I still fumbled but I had gained a good grasp on it. We were all sitting at a table eating and talking war.

“Yes I do believe the man did shit upon himself. He did give back the wine though.” Domitian said laughing.

“With my temper I would have run him through and be done with it.” I said smirking.

“Lady Asuna I must say your Latin improves everyday!” the Emperor commented.

“Your General is an excellent teacher. I am anxious though to know when Trajan will head to the fronts.” I asked.

“He has leave to go next week. As you know war is an expensive thing.” Domitian said.

“Yes it is.” Trajan concurred.

“When are you due Lady Asuna?” the Emperor asked.

“I am due in about four months.” I answered.

“Your husband does not object to you going into a war zone?” Domitian asked concerned.

“Tekeshi would join me if he could. He had to stay and defend his own borders from attack.” I stated.

“I do not understand your people's ways.” He said shaking his head.

Trajan seemed morose and I looked at my friend. I could feel his confusion and I looked at him. He looked back and then away.

“Trajan what bothers you my friend?” the Emperor asked.

“Nothing Majesty. May I be excused?” the general asked.

“Yes of course.” Domitian said.

“You see him almost every day, what do you think ails him?” he asked as Trajan left.

“I do not know.” I said looking concerned.

“Go! I know you wish to.” The emperor commanded.

“Thank you.” I said standing and following after the general.

I followed after Trajan and caught up with him. I touched his arm and he turned to look at me.

“What ails you?” I asked softly.

“Nothing Asuna.” He murmured.

“Trajan I can feel when you lie to me.” I said exasperated.

“You are not a normal woman Asuna. You learn at an unnatural rate and you are stronger than any female I have seen.” He commented.

“Are you afraid of me?” I asked astonished.

“I am angry that you continue to lie to me.” He said.

“What I am or am not does not matter.” I said suddenly angry.

“I have come to care for you a great deal. I have never had a woman understand war and such manly things but here you are. I view you quite strangely. You are the closet friend I have.” He said.

I looked at him and sighed. I turned from him and knew I would have to tell him the truth.

“I am not human.” I stated.

“Excuse me?” he said in shock.

“I am not mortal Trajan.” I said looking past him.

“What are you?” he asked curiously.

“I am a youki. Your language it is called a daemon.” I stated.

“I do not believe in such nonsense!” he stated in anger.

I undid my hair and lifted it showing my ears. He stared at me in shock. I felt a small amount of fear from him and shook my head.

“I did not say anything but what could I say? The mortals in Japan know of youki and our ways.” I said moving away.

I started to head away from him and he came up and turned me around. He stared down at me and stared at my eyes.

“What are you?” he asked again.

“I am called inu youki. Inu translates as dog and youki means daemon. I have been alive for more than a century.” I stated.

“This Vlad what is he?” he asked.

“He is an uppyr.” I said.

Uppyr was the Russian word for blood drinker and I knew he knew what it meant. He looked at me in utter shock.

“What you think of as a daemon is a joke. There are different species of youki and we all have different abilities. Everything I told was the truth expect what I was. I can live as long as I am not mortally wounded.” I stated.

“How is this possible?” he asked me quietly.

“Youki have been around as long as ningen or longer. We have more control over our own bodies more than ningen. Occasionally there is a mortal that comes along that has spiritual powers that rivals any yoki.” I said staring at the river.

“You said dog daemon. Does that mean you are a canine?” he asked.

“This form you see before you is but one of three I have. What you see is how I appear in my humanoid form. I have a true form which is that of a great silver dog.” I said looking at him.

“Show me.” He demanded.

“Trajan!” I exclaimed.

“Show me. I am not afraid of you.” He said.

“That is not what your pheromones are saying. You do not understand and I can scent it!” I said in a growl.

“Show me.” He demanded softly.

I took his hand and pulled him back to his villa. There was a large garden that I could fit in.

“Clear out your servants. I have no wish to scare them.” I said.

He left me and several minutes later he came back and looked at me. I sighed and willed myself to change. The winds blew up and I felt my face start to change. I slowly became the giant silver inu that I was and I stared down at him with my crimson eyes. He was afraid and also in awe. I leaned down and gently licked him to calm him. He actually snickered a little and I transformed back into my humanoid form. He watched me and I sat on a bench.

“You are beautiful.” He said coming to sit by me.

“I thank you.” I said softly.

“You are a warrior correct?” he said.

“Yes I am a warrior. I normally do not involve myself with mortals because they cannot handle youki at all. Most think us evil and depraved.” I stated with a sigh.

“I do not think you evil but I cannot get my mind around your abilities.” He stated looking at me.

“Watch that sculpture.” I commanded.

He nodded and I raised my hand and jerked it to the left sharply. The sculpture of a goddess was thrown against a wall of the villa and shattered. Trajan eyes widened tremendously.

“You have problems facing this Vlad?” he asked in shock.

“Yes. I am half uppyr as my mother is full; my father is an inu taiyouki. Vlad is the undisputed leader of the uppyr and I defy him. His powers of the mind are tremendous and I could not match them.” I said lowering my head.

“You think we Romans can stop him?” he stated in disbelief.

“He says it so in his journal. You are my only lead Trajan. I will not be brought to my knees again!” I stated in a furious tone.

“This task is daunting Asuna. I am but a mortal; what do I know of supernatural things?” he said standing.

“I do not know Trajan but he mentioned you specifically.” I said in desperation.

“You do not think much of us mortals do you?” he asked all of a sudden.

“You Romans are not typical ningen. Contrary to your beliefs I do not hate ningen. My aunt is a human priestess and my uncle is half human.” I stated.

“Mortals and daemons can reproduce?” he asked surprised.

“Yes they can. We can have sex and I must say it is something I enjoy immensely.” I said annoyed.

He laughed at my candor and pulled me to standing. He kept his distance but I could scent his desires and the smell was making me dizzy.

“Please stop.” I groaned.

“Stop what?” he asked surprised.

“I can scent your intentions. You want me and have wanted me for some time.” I said bluntly.

“You can scent that?” Trajan asked surprised.

“Yes and I need to sleep now. You need a cold bath.” I said moving away from him.

“Domitian says that I am to move the troops soon.” He stated changing the subject.

“He told me.” I said.

“Come my dear friend.” He said.

I could feel his acceptance and knew him to be one of the few mortals that were extraordinary.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I rode a horse beside Trajan as we come upon the Danube River. I looked over at the other side and shuddered. Trajan put a hand on mine and I looked at him gratefully. We had managed to maintain our friendship and I was glad. I knew he desired me greatly but he respected my known union. He was in full armor and I looked at him in awe. He raised his arm and made a signal to stop.

“We will camp here for now.” He said to several tribunes.

“Yes general!” they stated.

He motioned for me to follow and I led my horse after his. I watched as they raised tents. I heard several thoughts and the tribunes thought that I was Trajan's lover. Many had seen my prowess with a sword and none doubted my ability. I dismounted as did Trajan and he went and sat beneath a tree. He pulled out a map and I sat by him. I pointed to the map where the castle was. He had gotten used to my hearing his thoughts and he nodded. I felt Vlad's aura and I slammed every shield in place. Trajan felt the change in my demeanor and I narrowed my eyes. The uppyr king was ungodly powerful in this era too. I started growling lightly and Trajan stood. He put a hand on his broadsword and I too stood. I saw him astride a horse on the other side of the river. His eyes narrowed and I knew he could see me quite well. Anger welled up in me and I proceeded to lift my hand in an obscene gesture that I had learned amongst the Romans. Trajan put my hand down and Vlad dismounted his black mount and he actually tried to press my mind. I lost every ounce of temper and I threw him squarely against a huge tree with my mind. Trajan hissed for me to stop and I looked at him. Vlad stood and I could feel his intense curiosity. Trajan pulled me away and I knew the uppyr king would wait till nightfall.

“That was not smart Asuna.” Trajan said.

“I hate him! Do you hear me? I hate him!” I snarled.

“Shhhh. He would be stupid to come amongst a whole camp full of soldiers even if he is a daemon.” He said calming me.

“He will come tonight. He is insidious.” I said looking at Trajan.

He lifted my chin and I knew my eyes were burning crimson. He lowered his lips to mine and very softly kissed me. It was not demanding or brutal. I knew he meant it as nothing but I growled into his lips. He made a move to pull back and I pulled him forward and claimed his mouth. I nipped at his lips and ran my tongue along the seam of his lips. He opened his mouth and I plundered him. I reined myself in and pulled back. I looked at him and he shook his head.

“I meant nothing by that. I am sorry.” He said running a hand through his short hair.

“Do not bother yourself on it.” I murmured.

“Come they should have the tents up.” He said turning.

I followed him and we entered a large tent. There were separate partitions that were meant as rooms. Trajan shared his tent with me. I watched him and he was embarrassed at his behavior. Servants were milling about and I came up behind and started undoing his armor for him. He seemed surprised but I slipped him out of the metal and leather. I laid it down and reached up and pulled him down gently by the back of the neck. He opened his lips and I met them with my own. I kissed him passionately and with abandon. He wrapped his arms around me and suppressed his groans. I tore my lips away again and suppressed my ardor. I could scent his lust and it was a dizzying smell. I shook my head to clear my thoughts and he turned away from me.

“By the Gods your lips are devilish.” He murmured.

“Forgive me this time.” I said behind him.

“No matter my friend. Come let us sup and meet with the tribunes.” He said clearing his mind.

“Yes.” I responded.

I followed him and we went to the large tent used as a mess hall. The Romans were advanced in most things military and their accommodations in the field were no different. We ate our fill and discussed the Dacians and their movements across the Danube. I grew tired and I went back to the General's tent. Vlad would wait a few more hours and I could get a little rest. I felt Trajan behind me and I turned.

“I cannot get the feel of your lips out of my head.” He whispered.

“Trajan.” I stated softly.

“I know. I will not trouble you further about it.” He said as he went to his own partition.

I sighed and followed him. He was sitting at his desk and he was trying to concentrate on rebel movements. I came up behind him and put my hands on his shoulders. He trembled lightly and I lowered my lips to his neck. I placed soft kisses on the tender flesh and he moaned.

“Youki couplings can be brutal.” I murmured against his flesh.

“I am willing to risk it.” He breathed softly.

“I could hurt you. I have never been tempted by a mortal before.” I said running my tongue along his juncture.

His eyes fluttered shut and I growled very softly. I was fighting myself and his scent intoxicated me. I wondered if this is what Touga felt when he fell for Izayoi. Trajan stood and I knew he intended to go to the river and try and calm himself. He turned and I caught his lips again. His hands fisted in my silver hair as we devoured each other. I was loosing myself to my lust quickly and with it any good sense. I pulled him backwards and we landed on the chaise. I took a claw and split open his tunic. He looked down at me in surprise and I smirked.

“Those are useful.” He said with a soft laugh.

“Yes they are.” I retorted.

He removed the tunic and threw it away from us. His skin was taut over rock hard muscles. Years of being a soldier had created a piece of art. I sliced through his undergarment and I pulled it away from him. He smirked down at me and I nipped at his lips. I wrapped my hand around his girth and watched his face as I stroked him. His blue eyes grew cloudy with tremendous desire and I watched fascinated as those emotions played upon his face. I released him and his sat back and moved to undo the stays to my haori. I had my traditional clothes made while in Rome. I undid my hakamas and he opened my haori and kosode. His breathing was heavier as was mine. I had never dreamed that I would even consider rutting with a mortal but he was no ordinary mortal. I lifted my hips and he pulled down the silk bottoms. I watched him as he cupped my breast. I bit back a moan as his thumb traced the nipple. I was getting caught up in the moment when I felt the first brushing of my mind.

“Vlad!” I hissed.

Trajan looked at me. He sat up quickly and went to a trunk and pulled out a tunic. He moved quickly and I pulled back on my haori and hakamas. I tied my obi quickly and slipped Kumosaiga into it.

“How far away is he?” Trajan asked quietly

“He is outside the camp a mile or two.” I answered.

I moved forward and he grabbed me. He shook his head no and I glared at him.

“I can handle him at this moment Trajan. Back me up. He will not stop till he has spoken with me. We might as well get it over with. Besides you have the mortal rebels to deal with.” I said moving forward.

He was putting his armor back on and he followed me out of the tent. My hair was down and flowed down back and blew in a light breeze.

“I go now Trajan!” I said.

He called after me but I used my youki speed. I walked into a clearing in the forest and leaned against a tree. There was Vlad with his back to me. He turned and looked at me. My eyes were narrowed and the intense curiosity was evident upon his face.

“Why does a daemon travel amongst mortals?” he asked.

“What I do is none of your fucking business.” I snarled at him.

“You are almost rabid. What have I done to you?” he asked coming closer.

“You exist.” I snapped.

“Have I perhaps offended you in another lifetime?” he asked amused.

“Do not make yourself familiar with me uppyr!” I snarled as my eyes flashed crimson.

“How can I make myself familiar when I know not who you are? I must say your abilities are amazing. I have never met any daemon besides an uppyr that has psi abilities.” He said smirking.

I set my mouth in a grim line and moved forward with incredible speed. I shoved my claws into his chest and released Dakkasou. He hissed in pain and shoved me back. I kept my balance and drew my fang. He did not realize that I was a hybrid uppyr and I used it to my advantage. I threw him forcefully with my mind against a tree and he grunted. He was powerful but not as advanced has he was in my own era. He got up and came to me. He tried to force me down with his will and I stood but I broke out into a sweat. His shields were in place as well and he resorted to unsheathing his sword. His handsome face was set in a grim visage as I circled him. He had not technically had my blood so he could not control as well or at all it seemed.

“You reek of hate for me personally but I have never seen you before. Pray tell what do you think I have done that makes you travel amongst the Romans.” He demanded.

“Your debauchery and evil are well known Eyal.” I sneered.

He stepped back and looked visibly stunned. I came at him quickly and wrapped a clawed hand around his throat. I pressed my claws in just enough and he did not fight me.

“How do you know that name?” he whispered harshly.

“I also know you hail from Babylon and you are a Hebrew. You paid much money for mortals to return to their homeland of Judea.” I said in harsh tone.

“Who in God's name are you?” he asked me.

“You are a bastard and you will die a bastard's death.” I answered.

He pulled my hand off of his neck with sheer strength and crushed my fingers. It hurt like hell but I did not cry out.

“You will tell me how you know of me woman. I was merely curious but now I am pissed.” He said grabbing my throat.

He made us disappear into the mist and we reappeared near his castle. I went wild and started slashing at him with my claws. He had to grab my hands and hold them tightly. I spit at him and his own eyes flashed red for a moment. His will was greater when he was angry and I fought him as best I could. I knew he would try and go for my blood and I brought a booted foot up a little and kicked his knee.

“Bitch!” he hissed as he let go of him.

“You state the obvious vermin.” I said backing away.

I was panting and exhaustion was overcoming me. He looked over and rolled and grabbed an ankle. I tumbled down and he pinned me beneath him. Bile flooded my mouth at his nearness and I threw him off enough to vomit.

“I feel your hatred of me yet I have never done a damn thing to you!” he snarled.

I wiped my mouth with the back of my hand and snarled. He was starting to get the idea that I was an inu.

“You are some kind of dog daemon? Why should I bother your kind?” he demanded.

“I do hate you. You are nothing more than scum that is a waste of space on this Earth.” I snarled in a terrible rage.

“You are the one that has brought the Romans to my door?” he asked in anger.

“Serves you right.” I snapped.

“I would know how you know the name Eyal.” He said dangerously.

“Screw you.” I snapped again.

He was on me again and I again fought him. I managed to reach down and grab my dirk. He saw my movements and grasped my hand tightly. He smashed my hand against a rock and I yelped in pain. He did it again and I dropped the blade. The back of my hand was bloodied and I tried to keep it away from him. He leaned forward and licked at the blood. I maintained a barrier around my mind that he would have a hell of a time trying to get through but my blood told him my ancestry. His eyes widened again in utter shock. Not only was I masking my uppyr heritage but I also had masked the very distant relation to him that I was. He dropped my hand and he was obviously confused.

“Who are you?” he demanded.

“Your death!” I snapped.

He grabbed my throat and he realized that I would not give him what he wanted. He lowered his fangs to my neck and I bucked beneath him as he sank them in. My eyes fluttered shut at the exquisite heat coursed through me. I moaned beneath him and he still could not get through the walls of my mind. He pulled back and I was a bigger mystery than before.

“You are half uppyr; how can this be?” he asked shocked.

“You do not know how males and females interact to create offspring?” I asked him sarcasticlly.

“I do not know how an uppyr was born of another daemon. I have never seen it.” He snapped.

“Ignorant imbecile.” I muttered.

“Excuse me? You are the one that has brought Legions of mortals into my land!” he snapped.

“You are a disgusting bastard who needs to do the world a favor and die!” I snarled at him.

“Tell me what offense you think I have done!” he demanded.

“You took from me.” I said in a raw voice.

“What did I take?” he asked confused.

“My dignity.” I snapped sitting up.

“I do not even know you. Your blood tells me that I should but I do not.” He said standing.

“You act as though you are innocent! You act as though you are not a depraved monster!” I yelled.

“Taste my blood. You will see that I speak the truth.” He said narrowing his eyes.

I moved forward and sank my fangs into his neck without any resistance from him. I closed my eyes and saw his life as it was now. I had latched onto his neck and I had no intention of letting go. He moaned beneath me as I drank his powerful blood. He had to push me back and my fangs tore his flesh. He looked at me and I stared right back at him. He was starting to garner great amounts of power and influence. He had not turned to depravity yet. He had gotten nothing from my blood letting and I had gotten much. I turned away from him and he grabbed me. He turned me around and his large hands held my face.

“Who are you? Blood of a relative runs in your veins and you say I took your dignity.” He demanded softly.

“Who I am matters not. Who you are is what matters.” I said in a dangerous tone.

“I will have your name.” he demanded.

“Death.” I said darkly.

“How can I defend myself against your accusations?” he snarled.

“You cannot.” I stated in anger.

“Woman you will answer me.” He threatened me.

“Or you will what Vlad? Punish me?” I laughed bitterly.

He grabbed me roughly and I rounded on him. His life had been wasted by his disgusting ways. I hit him and he held me fast. He invaded my mouth and bit into my tongue. I groaned against the assault and he was able to pull a little bit from me. A small amount of my blood spilled from my mouth. He pulled back and stared at me horrified.

“I have known you.” He said.

“Go to hell!” I yelled at him.

“Come with me.” He said pulling me along.

“Let me go Vlad.” I demanded.

“Do not make yourself so familiar.” He said mocking me.

I grabbed his hair and jerked his head back. I put my claws to his throat and he stared at me with his brown eyes. My eyes were burning and I dared him to move. I hated him more than I could say but I could not kill him yet. I lowered my claws and jerked away from him.

“You are pathetic and you will die pathetic.” I said turning to leave.

“Says you and a pack of mortals?” he said moving straight in front of me.

“Who is Shezmu?” I asked suddenly.

“You speak of a legend and myth.” He said looking at me confused.

“You say he is only legend and myth but I have seen him with my own eyes?” I asked incredulously.

Vlad actually looked concerned and I moved closer to him.

“There is no way you could have seen that creature. He is said to be an Egyptian God.” He said defiantly.

“The idea of an ancient god makes you afraid?” I asked amused.

“You are a smart mouthed little tart. He is said to be the devourer of souls and judges the damned.” Vlad said narrowing his eyes.

“I am not damned.” I said.

“You are a daemon according to the Church you are damned.” He said crossing his arms.

“I am Shinto and not Christian. I am not damned and therefore have no fear for my soul; you on the other hand.” I said looking him over.

“If this Shezmu is real then you and I may both have problems bitch. He is a blood drinker according to myth and may very well be one of the first.” Vlad said narrowing his eyes.

“Why should I care?” I asked.

“One more powerful than both of us put together could be very dangerous indeed. I have never met a female of your strength and you are a hybrid.” He said stepping back.

“Are you suggesting that we find out what he wants?” I asked surprised.

“Yes I am. I have no intentions of dying. Regardless of any misdeeds you are convinced I have done or by some defunct Egyptian deity.” He said stubbornly.

I wanted to hate him but his frankness and openness were getting to me.

“He appeared to me in Rome.” I said.

“First you need to call off your Roman dogs. The mortals may be causing problems but the uppyr in the Carpathians are not.” He demanded.

“I will call them off for now. You even think to betray me Tepest and I skewer your nads on a spit over a fire.” I said growling.

“Colorful metaphor woman.” He snapped.

“You may call me Yuina.” I said moving away from him.

I had given him the nickname I had as a small pup from my brother Osamu. I moved away from him and he stared at me.

“If you are Shinto then that means you are Japanese.” He observed.

“Very good. I suppose you are intelligent.” I said in a snotty tone.

He glared at me and I transformed into my sphere. I moved to the Roman encampment and appeared directly in Trajan's tent. He about jumped out of his skin.

“I need to follow through with something in the youki world. Take care of the Dacian mortals only. I have no wish for the uppyr to bring down their wrath on your legions.” I said.

“Asuna what is going on?” he asked.

“I am unsure as of yet. I will not bring you into youki matters. I cannot see you harmed.” I said touching his cheek.

“You will return as soon as you can?” he asked me.

“Yes I will.” I said softly.

“Go then. I have some rebels to catch.” He said smirking.

I bowed to my friend and I stood. He moved closer to me and lowered his lips to mine. He kissed me softly then pulled away.

“Keep safe and tell me your adventure later?” he said.

“I will you tell Trajan.” I said.

I turned and walked out into the Dacian night.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I followed at a distance behind Vlad and let him do most of the talking. We were in North Africa and the uppyr king knew every blood drinker from here to the ends of the earth. I rolled my eyes and watched him. He was charming and very friendly. He had become something horrid compared to what he was now. He came up to me and I raised a brow.

“You Yuina are a bitch you know that?” he growled at me.

“What have I done now?” I asked in a snippy tone.

“You snub everyone we come into contact with. You could be just a tad friendlier.” He snapped.

“Why would I make your life easier?” I snarled.

“Because I have no wish to die and neither should you!” he snarled back.

“Why do you go by Vlad when you were born Eyal?” I asked.

“Why do you bring up my ancient history?” he retorted.

“Afraid?” I asked.

“That was another lifetime ago. I have not been that name for centuries.” He said moving past me.

“You were decent before you met that whore Syna.” I snapped.

He stiffened and moved within inches of my face. He looked angry and I narrowed my eyes.

“I have no clue how you know so much about me but drop it Yuina. I owe you nothing and you see fit to plague my existence.” He snarled.

“How soon till we reach Egypt and why not just teleport there?” I asked.

“Because I wish to see if any other of our kind have seen him.” He said exasperated.

I looked at him and I got a nasty look on my face. I walked around him and stared at him.

“Did you enjoy taking the Greek whore outside of the city? She told you that the mortals were beasts of the field and you believed her.” I said with a sneer.

He came to me and pulled my hair so that I looked up at him. Fury was evident in his eyes and I wondered if I could taunt him to death.

“What would Nahum say?” I asked him.

“Who is the one that is afraid? I have no need to shield so heavily. You are the one with secrets bitch. Nahum was a fool and thought only of the Temple. I had enough vision to see the future. How dare you judge what you do not understand.” He said coldly.

“I judge you.” I said.

“You do not truly know me.” He snapped.

“Why would I care to know you?” I asked.

“You are a coward.” He said stepping back.

“How long till we reach Egypt?” I asked.

“Three or four days.” He snapped.

“Fine.” I said walking ahead of him.

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /

Later on in the night I sat beneath a large palm tree and rested. Vlad was some distance away. I stared across the way and I saw the one known as Shezmu.

“Inpu.” He said softly.

My eyes widened and I looked at him. His hair was down and he wore only a linen kilt. I held my breath because this was the oldest creature I had ever seen.

“Shezmu?” I asked him softly.

He nodded and I looked at him in awe. I felt no hostility from him but Vlad had not felt his presence either.

“Do you have any ill intentions?” I asked in Cantonese.

“No.” he said.

“Are you a god?” I asked.

He snorted softly and I watched him as he moved closer. His yoki was more suffocating than I had ever felt.

“No god.” He said.

“What do you want?” I asked him.

“Tired.” He said looking over the sand.

“You do not speak Cantonese well?” I asked him.

“No.” he replied.

“Can you speak Latin?” I asked.

“Yes.” He replied.

I looked over him and I was fascinated. He was beautiful and sad looking at the same time. I reached out and touched his velvet soft hair. He closed his eyes and I knew he was lonely.

“You are from Egypt?” I asked him.

“Yes.” He replied.

“Why have you appeared to me?” I asked him.

“I felt your presence. You are like me.” He said looking at me.

“How am I like you?” I asked him.

“Inpu.” He stated.

“You are inu?” I asked in shock.

“Yes.” He murmured.

“I thought you were uppyr.” I asked.

“Yes that too.” He said.

“I do not understand.” I said to him.

He sighed and moved to disappear. I grabbed his arm and he looked at me. He was trying to tell me he was inu-uppyr like me. He had been worshiped as an Egyptian god and he was ancient.

“Vlad is afraid of you.” I said very softly.

“He should be afraid. You never have to fear me.” He said watching me.

“What do you want from me Shezmu?” I asked.

“To die.” He replied.

“What?” I asked in shock.

“Tired.” He repeated.

“You want me to kill you? Why would I kill you?” I asked.

“Lived too long. All I had is gone.” He replied.

“Your mate?' I asked him.

“Yes and pups.” He said looking past me.

“I cannot kill you. I could not live with myself!” I cried.

“Please.” He said quietly.

“How old are you?” I asked.

“More than three millennium.” He answered.

I touched his smooth cheek and looked into his sad eyes. I could not imagine all he had seen and it was breaking my heart. He bared his neck to me and I shook my head no. He pulled me forward and I could scent his sadness. I bared my fangs and sank them into his neck. He shuddered under me and I shook too as his memories assaulted me. I saw a beautiful female and thousands that worshipped him. I saw wars and death. I pulled back and he held my eyes.

“You have strength.” He whispered.

“I cannot kill you. It would be a crime to destroy you.” I said as my chest heaved.

“Very tired.” He said again.

I felt Vlad coming closer and Shezmu stood. His brown eyes took on a hardened look and I sat behind him. Vlad stopped when he saw the ancient one and his eyes widened.

“You are real!” he hissed.

“Go away.” He told the uppyr king.

“Step away from the bitch.” Vlad said narrowing his eyes.

“Not your concern.” Shezmu snarled.

“What does he want?” Vlad asked in Russian.

“He wants to speak with me. Leave us for now.” I replied in Russian.

Vlad looked unconvinced but I growled. He bowed and left. Shezmu held out his hand and I took it. He pulled me to standing and put a hand to my belly. The pup moved under his hand and he smiled gently. He looked at me and smiled softly.

“I do not want to kill you, please do not ask that of me.” I asked him.

“They are gone and I am alone.” He replied.

“There are many inu where I am from. There is enough you will get sick of seeing inu.” I cried.

“No.” he replied.

“I do not know you but I would mourn your loss. You could teach so many.” I said holding his face.

“Please.” He asked me again.

I lowered his lips to mine and he groaned at the caress. He was a foreign inu and I knew he had been alone for so long that he craved touch like he did air. I kissed him fervently and he was moaning. I gave him short and soft nips at his lips and he seemed to come to life. I slipped my tongue into his mouth and massaged his with my own. He growled softly and my lips became demanding. I would not kill this creature by the Kamis I could not. He pulled away from my lips and looked away. I circled him and he watched me closely. I moved closer to him and I reached out and ran my claws lightly down his arm. He shivered and sought my gaze. I again touched his soft hair and there was a current between us. I wrapped my hand around the back of his neck and pulled him down again and caught his lips. I kissed him with urgency and he actually pulled me closer to him. This inu could probably best my father in half a second and any other I knew. His sadness overwhelmed me and it fueled me. His own hands fisted in my hair and he whined just a little.

“Take me away from here.” I whispered into his ear.

He looked down at me in surprise. I traced his elfin ear and he closed his eyes at the touch.

“Speak with me. Tell me about yourself please.” I begged him.

He gathered me in his arms and we disappeared from the desert. We reappeared in a strange looking dwelling. It was made of sandstone and granite. I gently pulled away from the ancient inu and looked around. I turned and watched him as he eyed me.

“How did you feel me from so far away?” I asked him.

“You are strong.” He answered simply.

“You felt me all the way in Rome?” I asked him.

He nodded and I moved closer. He appeared as many of the texts described the ancient Egyptians. His markings were due to his inu nature and that probably caused the mortals to adopt it as worship. I touched his face again and he sighed. His Latin was spotty at best but he knew enough to communicate. I held both sides of his face and kissed him yet again. I could feel tension leave his body and he leaned into the caress. I threw away my sense and I became determined to change this Ancient's mind. I continued the kiss and lowered my hands to my haori and undid the stays. I slowly slipped the silk off followed by my kosode. His eyes flew open and they widened. I took his hands and pressed them to my breasts. Lust actually entered his eyes and I became entranced. His thumbs grazed my nipples and I groaned loudly. He lowered his head and laved his tongue against the pebbled flesh. I breathed in deeply and he suckled me and I threw my head back and groaned. His lips moved to my other breast and I shut my eyes. His mouth was driving me mad as he suckled and tongued the nipple. Pleasure erupted in my center and my hands fisted the soft silk of his hair. His own hands reached down and undid the ties to my bottoms. The silk fell around my ankles and I stepped out of it. He had lifted his head and caught my lips again in a devastatingly gentle slide of flesh. He picked me up and brought me to a low bed and laid me on it. He took of my geta sandals and laid them on the stone floor. I sat up and reached for his linen kilt. He wore a belt of gold and lapis-lazuli. My hands actually shook and he covered them with his own.

“No.” he said softly.

“Yes.” I breathed.

I unhooked the belt and the kilt came undone. His skin had been bronzed by the desert sun and I stared at his body with hunger. I reached up and grasped his backside and his eyes held mine. I leaned forward and ran my tongue along his girth. A low snarl was ripped from his chest and it egged me on. I wrapped my lips around the head of his erection and he suppressed a shudder. I took as much into my mouth as I could and he moaned. I knew from his memories that he had been alone for quite awhile. He was actually a fairly gentle inu that had lost the will to go on. I went with my lust and pleasured him. I felt his hands on the back of my head and I could tell he was reveling in the feel of my tongue and lips on his staff. I minded my fangs and he growled low in his throat. He thrust against my mouth and I growled in response. He hissed in pleasure and he pulled himself out slowly. I looked up at his handsome visage and his brown eyes were tinged pink. He laid me back and he joined me. He turned me on my side so that my back was flush to his chest. His lazily reached a hand between my silver curls and felt the slick heat. He pressed his lips to my ear.

“Why?” he asked quietly.

He long fingers found my clitoris and rolled and lightly pinched it. I gasped in pleasure and he repeated the question.

“I want you to want again.” I gasped.

His fingers kept up their slow assault of my nub. I squirmed against him but he held onto me firmly.

“I have lived too long little one.” He whispered into my ear.

“No you have not. You are not alone anymore. I understand the duality.” I cried out.

His experienced fingers were making my brain mush. He was building me up slowly and I felt his very stiff and heavy erection against my backside.

“Too much death.” He moaned into my ear.

My eyes rolled back and I moaned loudly. He nipped along my neck and I was being brought very slowly to climax.

“Promise me to end my suffering.” He moaned in my ear.

“Please do not ask that of me.” I cried.

“Please.” He cried softly.

“No Shezmu I cannot.” I cried out as the pressure increased.

I was panting as he inserted a finger into my core. I cried out as he moved his finger in and out of me at an agonizing pace. I could not believe he was asking me to kill him at the same time as bringing me such incredible pleasure. I leaned my head back and he kissed me again slowly. My belly started to tighten and I gasped into the kiss. He increased the pace of his finger and the pressure on my clit. I shattered into a million pieces and I cried out against his mouth. He slowly withdrew his hand and brought his hand to his lips. His flicked his tongue out tasted my release. He groaned and he claimed my mouth again. I shook against him and we both moaned. I tried to move but he held me firmly.

“You have the strength to end my suffering little one.” He whispered in my ear.

I shook my head fiercely and he lifted my right leg a bit. I felt his staff at my entrance and he entered me slowly. He groaned his pleasure and I hissed. His hand rested on my hip and I pushed against him. He started moving against me in a slow thrusting. He was a consummate lover and I was pressing against him. He wanted me to end his life and I wanted to know him more. I placed my hand on his and my claws dug into the back of his hand. He nuzzled my neck and I bit my lip. His thrusts were smooth and sharp as he built me back up. His hand once again settled between my curls and he dragged a claw very lightly across my clit. I quashed a cry and his fangs settled on my jugular. He did not bite down but growled loudly. My beast was stirred at the growling and I wondered if that was his doing. I felt his yoki and I knew he felt mine. He released my throat and his lips returned to my ear.

“Please.” He begged.

“No!” I cried out in a gravelly voice.

He thrust into me harder and I almost climaxed right then. He pulled back and increased the pressure on my nub and the speed and strength of his movements. I cried out as a powerful orgasm wracked my body. It erupted in my core and spread like a wildfire along my nerves. I cried his name and he still moved within me. I flexed my claws and he was going to build me up again. I murmured out senseless words as his hips snapped harder still and I lost my mind to it all. I grabbed his hand and started licking and nipping at his wrist. I felt his yoki rise and I was murmuring in Japanese. I bit into his wrist and I felt him breathe harshly and cry out. His went rigid as his yoki and release seemed almost ripped from him. Both seemed to pour into me and my own body spasmed around his staff and I shook with the intensity. He nose was buried into my neck and my breathing slowly returned to normal. My eyes fluttered shut and I fell into a light sleep. I woke up slowly and my limbs felt leaden. I rolled in Shezmu's arms and watched as he slept. He was more powerful than I had the privilege of knowing and his sadness still struck me. He seemed to sense my waking state and one eye opened lazily then the other. My gold-brown eyes caught his and a small smile graced his lips.

“Asuna.” He breathed softly.

“Yes.” I replied in Latin.

“Where are you from little one?” he asked me.

“The big islands of the coast of China.” I replied.

“Never have I seen a silver inu before.” He said touching my hair.

I smiled at him and touched his hair. We seemed both in a trance as we eyed the other. I was totally awestruck.

“How old are you?” he asked me softly.

“One hundred seven summers.” I answered.

He chuckled and I took no offense. I ran my hand up his side boldly and his eyes fluttered shut.

“Why were you worshipped as a god?” I asked him.

“Mortals can be very silly.” He replied.

“I would have been very silly indeed.” I said to him.

He looked at me and seemed surprised. I bared my neck to him so he could taste my blood and I lowered every shield I had. His gaze grew intense and he lowered his fangs to my neck and bit in. I moaned loudly and it seemed to echo off the walls. My eyes closed and he saw everything I could give him. He pulled back and looked down at me.

“You are not from this time!” he said in shock.

I shook my head no and he sat up. I slowly sat up and his gaze seemed angry. His anger was not at me but I had the feeling it was because of Vlad. He reached for his linen kilt and stood. He wrapped it around his powerful hips and he leaned down and handed me my own clothing. He put his belt in place and looked at me as I slowly dressed. I felt no shame in what I had done and he knew as much about me as I could offer.

“You are due soon with your pup.” He observed.

“Yes about three months.” I said.

“I will solve your problem. I will return with you and solve your problem.” He said looking at me.

I looked stunned and knew he could defeat Vlad with ease. I stood and moved closer to him.

“I will not end your life. I would have no honor left if I did such a disgusting thing.” I said holding onto his shoulders.

“I will ask you again at some point and I pray you will not deny me.” He said looking at the wall.

“Why do you need my help?” I asked.

“I have tried on my own. The longer we live the harder it is to die little one. You posses much ka for one so young.” He explained.

“Ka?” I asked confused.

“Your power and spirit.” He explained.

“My yoki!” I said in understanding.

“Yes.” He confirmed.

“I do not want you to die.” I said wrapping my arms around his waist.

I actually desired to touch him and feel his skin. He seemed to enjoy the closeness and looked down at me. I trembled against him and he held onto my hands.

“I am yours till I pass.” He said softly.

I grew angry at his words but I let them go. I looked at the wall and saw the ancient writing. I disengaged from him and went and looked at it.

“It is the lineage of the Inpu.” He stated.

“This is exquisite.” I said.

“I shall like to meet your family. We are rare among inu.” He stated.

“I have to recover the way home from Rome. I have hidden it away at Trajan's villa.” I said softly.

“Your mortal will want to say goodbye.” He stated in understanding.

“I will say goodbye but I will never say that to you.” I said flatly.

“You are strong.” He stated again.

“I have loose ends to tie up here but they can be resolved quickly.” I stated.

“Leave the uppyr to his own devices. He is not depraved yet but well on his way.” He stated softly.

“You were a great warrior once.” I said.

He nodded to me and I moved forward again and wrapped my arms around his waist. I again stared at him awestruck and knew things had taken on a new dimension. I would save this former god from his own sadness and self recrimination.