InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ A Bargain With a Kami Part II ( Chapter 44 )

I was reclining on the chaise in my library; I would keep off my feet as much as possible as I had promised Naraku I would. Naraku was in Korea again and I waited on word from him. Yuudai was in Japan fighting against rogue tsuchigumo. I had surmised correctly and Sheng was in the Winter Palace at He Gang. He had requested the boys be sent there and I had accommodated him by way of my Mother. I actually started to think that he would move on away from me. I actually hoped he would. I went back to reading the letter from Yuudai and I was pleased with his reports. He had sent me a separate letter of a more personal nature and it contained a wild flower. He had rolled with the punches so to speak and refused to let matters interfere in our relationship. He was still my best friend and I found myself pouring out my fears and feelings to him in my letters.

Hana and Ang Chi were in the study as well. Hana was mock attacking her brother and he was trying to teach her how to hunt books it seemed. I would look up and smile at them.

“My Lady?” my maidservant inquired.

“Hai Zhou?” I answered.

“The Prince of Hunan is in your antechamber and wishes to speak with you. Shall I bring him here?” she asked.

“Hai.” I said softly.

Ang Chi looked up at me; he picked up Hana and bowed.

“I shall give you and the tiger privacy to talk.” He said bowing.

“Thank you my son. I love you.” I said.

“Hai mother! We love you too!” Ang Chi said raising Hana's hand and waving bye.

I chuckled and waited for Zhou to bring Quon in here. I was wearing a long tunic and dressing gown. I was beginning to wonder about the pup. I was starting to show but felt much movement constantly. Quon came in and bowed. I kept my hormones in check and nodded my head. He wore a navy pein-fu and ku. His long silver hair was pulled back and I looked up at him. His tail was moving sharply and he was agitated.

“Hello Prince Quon.” I said softly.

“Hello Lady Asuna. Why did you not inform me of your return to Shanghai?” he asked.

“Because I did not realize that I should have.” I stated.

“Can we dispense with formality?” he asked me sharply.

“By all means Quon, I seem to constantly irritate the hell out of you.” I said rolling my eyes.

“Yes you do. You are stunning.” He said sitting.

“What?” I asked in total confusion.

“I said you are stunning. I have seen very few nu zi who look as stunning while pregnant.” He said softly.

“Thank you. You did not come all this way to tell me I am stunning.” I said bluntly.

“Two reasons actually. My father wants the import tax lifted.” He stated.

“Your other reason?” I asked raising a brow.

“I want to make love to you.” He said bluntly.

“I see.” I said with my eyes widened.

He smirked at me and I looked at him quizzically. He moved closer to me and immediately possessed my mouth. I did not fight a losing a battle and gave into my hazy lust.

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I was on side on my futon and Quon's chest faced my back. I watched his tail and knew it would always tell me what mood he was in. It was twitching very slowly and I took that to mean he was satisfied. He was sleeping and I sighed. I knew I would never hesitate to fight him if necessary but the same went if he wished to couple. I needed to move around and the pup was especially active. I was in my sixth month; I carried this one different but he was active and he felt everywhere. My lower back was hurting and I got up. Quon stirred and looked up at me.

“Are you alright?” he asked.

“Hai. Why does your father think I would lift the import tax?” I asked grimacing.

“He thinks that you may like me enough to do it. Why are you in pain?” he asked me.

“It is nothing. He thinks that I would loose all the revenue from the harbors? Is he insane? I will cut it by half and no more.” I said keeping a straight face.

“That is better than he actually expected.” He said stretching.

“Well he had better be glad I like you.” I said breathing deeply.

“Inu what is wrong?” he asked sitting up on the futon.

“Quon I have a name! I do not call you Byakko all the time.” I snapped.

“Asuna.” He said.

“Thank you and it is normal for pregnancy. It is not the most comfortable to endure.” I said neutrally.

“You look worse than when I struck you with my shoki.” He said.

“Thank you. First I am stunning now I am ugly.” I said joking.

“You are not in labor are you?” he asked.

“No.” I answered tightly and very unsure.

“How long are your pregnancies?” he asked concerned.

“Six to eight months. It is nothing.” I said grimacing again.

“We rutted and you climaxed; that can trigger labor!” he said moving to my side.

“Quon do not worry alright? You need to go back to Hunan and tell your father I was in a good mood.” I joked again.

“I can not leave you in this state.” He said stubbornly.

“Prince Quon it will pass. I assure this is normal and has happened before. I need to lie down and rest.” I said sternly.

“I will be back tomorrow to check on you then. Why are your mates not here?” he demanded.

“Naraku is in Korea and is insinuating himself into the inner circles of Ishin. It is taking longer than we wished but it is working and he is keeping a close on our daughter. Yuudai is trying to clear the nests in Japan. We are hoping we can strike a big enough blow to the tsuchigumo.” I stated.

“Alright then. Lay down.” He said helping me.

“Thank you. Now go.” I said smiling.

He kissed me deeply and I responded. He withdrew and started dressing. I was extremely uncomfortable but kept my face straight. His eyes swept over me to assure himself that I was okay. I nodded and he disappeared into his mist. I laid back and prayed this was not real labor. I fell into a light sleep and was later shaken awake by Ang Chi.

“Mother please wake up!' he said.

“Huh? Ang Chi what is wrong?” I asked.

“We are surrounded. Vice General Kenji is keeping the spiders back but it will not be long.” Ang Chi stated.

“Take Hana. You know where the tunnel is?” I asked sitting up.

Horrendous pain took me and I cried out. Ang Chi held onto me and his eyes widened in fear.

“Listen to me! Take Hana and go now! Get to Ichigawa. He is in Hong Kong right now.” I commanded.

“Mother you are having the pup!” he said frightened.

“Ang Chi do as you are told. Take your sister and go!” I shouted.

“Yes mam.” He said running from the room.

I moved to my armoire and slowly dressed in a haori and hakamas. My armor was going to be uncomfortable. I got myself ready and I grabbed my fang. I breathed heavily and prayed to the Kamis to please let me get through this. I went to Kenji and he was surprised.

“I told Ang Chi to take you and leave!” Kenji insisted.

“I told my son to take his sister and get Ichigawa. I want you to gather all the troops. I am going to let loose the wave. That will clear a path alright? I am not loosing this palace!” I said flatly.

Kenji nodded and I went to the palace gates. There were Tsuchigumo everywhere. I would be able to clear a large number but there would be hand to hand combat. I raised my fang and let loose all my yoki. The air rippled and the resulting blast was tremendous. It threw me back as well. I felt a huge gush of fluid and my water had broken, I breathed heavily and stood. The path of destruction was wide spread and my soldiers were moving. I saw the arachnids move in. I sensed about thirty auras and one came at me. I fell to the ground and rolled. I had my fang out and the blade glowed black. This was new to me but I went with it. I channeled again and the swirling youki energy released at the spider was just gone. It was as if there was a void where he had stood. I was astonished but felt something pierce my flesh at my shoulder. I screamed and turned. I threw my Dakkasou as blades and the arachnid screamed as he was burned. He was definitely an upper level tsuchigumo as he was completely humanoid. Blood poured from the wound and labor pains wracked my body. My Dakkasou was dripping from my claws and I shoved my hand through his shoulder. He screamed terribly and went to his knees. I grew my energy whip and wrapped it around his neck. I fell to my knees and looked around. My inu soldiers were winning but the fields surrounding the palace were stained red.

“Who are you?” I demanded.

“Karu.” He grunted.

“Ishin sent you?” I demanded again.

“Hai my father sent me.” He said grimacing.

“Well Karu you now belong to me. He has my daughter and I have his son.” I snarled.

I lost my temper and slashed his chest with my toxin again, he shouted in pain.

“Kenji!” I called.

My vice general came to me and the fluid from my waters caught his attention.

“Take this creature and have him healed; also put the strongest magics we have! In fact send for the Byakko.” I said as I spit at Karu.

“Hai my Lady! My Lady is it what I think it is.” He said referring to my pregnancy

“Hai.” I said through clenched teeth.

Kenji hauled up the young Tsuchigumo and dragged him from me. He had pierced me with his claws. The venom burned badly but would not kill me. I was glad to know I was immune to the effects of a funnel web. The pains were hitting me harder; I got on all fours and cried out. I could not think beyond the pain of the wound and the pain of my womb. I dragged myself forward and the words of Tamiko hit me. She had said this pup would be born in the midst of a battle. I panted and had the feeling I was going to have this pup by myself. I grunted and tried to move toward the palace. I made it to a tree and cried out. Tamiko had said to stay home; I had not listened. I gripped the bark of the tree and hauled myself up. I felt hands on my shoulder and saw Kenji help me up. I grimaced but shook my head no.

“No I have to sit. Kenji get me the healer.” I said crying out.

“My Lady?” he asked frightened.

“I have to push.” I said in a near shriek.

“My Lady not here!” he cried.

“Hai out here. Help me get my armor off.” I said panting.

He helped me out of it and laid it to the side.

“Go inside and get a coverlet and cleans cloths.” I cried out.

“Hai!” he said in a panic.

Kenji ran into the palace and I saw dead tsuchigumo everywhere. I saw a few dead inu and tried to focus on giving orders. Finally a few soldiers came and I ordered them to take their brothers within palace grounds. I also ordered the tsuchigumo to be gotten rid of. They promptly obeyed but looked worried. I fought the urge to bear down and felt my forehead. I was hot and sweating terribly. I felt a familiar presence and I cried out again. Kenji came running back with the coverlet and cloths.

“You will have to help me out of my hakamas Kenji.” I said gritting my teeth.

“Kamis my Lady.” He said.

He was embarrassed but this pup was not waiting. I undid my hakamas but I saw the feet of the Byakko Prince.

“Vice General get your healer now.” Quon commanded.

Kenji ran off and Quon actually helped me undo my bottoms. He sat me on the coverlet and waited for the healer.

“You came back.” I said fighting the urge to bear down.

“Yes. I knew something was off. I should have stayed.” He said shaking his head.

“I have to push.” I said nearly shrieking.

“Asuna please wait!” he said sternly.

I looked at him as if he had lost his mind. I had to bear down and I did. I cried out the whole time and the mighty Byakko prince looked afraid.

“You have to wait! I know nothing of birthing!” Quon said.

“I have no fucking choice!” I screamed as I pushed with another pain.

I was approaching exhaustion and a look of panic crossed my face.

“Hana and Ang Chi. They will be on the south side of the palace. The tunnel! Quon please retrieve them.” I begged.

Indecision crossed his features but he got up and did as I begged of him. I reached between my legs and I felt the head of my son. I was terrified but I pushed again. I wanted to claw my way up the tree I was near as my skin stretched and burned. The healer came with Kenji and the poor Vice Admiral fainted. I wanted to laugh but the pain was too severe. I panted as the old healer from my army was grumbling about pregnant bitches should not be in battles. I snorted and growled at him. It was only a few minutes later when my tiny son came forth. His hair was as silver as mine. He had no markings of mine and only the blue above his eyes. He had a tiny stripe of ebony hair that I thought adorable. He cried rather loudly and the soldiers looked over my way and saw that I had birthed safely. The palace in the West would be a buzz with this event. I took him in my arms and the healer cut his cord. I watched him squirm and he opened mahogany eyes that matched his sister's. His yoki was more subtle than Mizuki's but powerful none the less. Naraku wanted him name Nori. I looked down at him and it fit him. I closed my eyes for a moment and strong labor pains hit me. I looked at the healer and he looked at me.

“How many pups did you feel within your womb?” he asked.

“One healer. He has been active.” I said in disbelief.

“No my lady there is another pup. I have already delivered the after birth for this prince.” He said bluntly.

“What?” I said dumbly.

“Hai.” The healer confirmed.

I could not believe this was happening. Quon came back with Hana and Ang Chi. He handed Hana to Quon and he came to me.

“Mother what is wrong?” he asked.

“I need you to hold your brother; he has a twin.” I said grimacing.

Ang Chi looked astonished as well as Quon. It made sense for twins were common on both sides of the family. I laid my head back and cried out. I felt another gush of my waters and knew that Nori and his sibling were not identical.

“Take the pups into the palace and have Zhou get him clean.” I commanded.

Ang Chi nodded and he went to the palace and I reached out with my mind and forcefully brushed Naraku's mind. He seemed stunned and I did not have the energy to talk. He felt the exhaustion and I had to pull back. Quon came back and picked me up. The second labor was building up and I had time to be brought into the palace. Quon went straight to my room and laid me on the futon.

“I need some of those binding gauntlets and I need you to get Yuudai. Please you can port quickly.” I begged.

“Sure. I will be back soon inu.” He said then disappeared into the mist.

I laid my head back and I felt exhaustion overtake me.

“My Lady it will be a little while. Try and sleep.” The healer stated.

I nodded and proceeded to let sleep take me.

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I woke up when horrendous contractions took hold of me. My shoulder had been bandaged and I looked up. Naraku was battered and bloody but Mizuki was at his side. I cried out and he beamed at me.

“She felt you. She ported straight to me and released a miasma. It seems she has known I was around for a least a day. She was waiting.” Naraku told me proudly.

“Have you seen your son?” I asked.

“No! You birthed him?” he asked surprised.

“Hai in the field. When did you arrive?” I asked as another pain hit me.

“Just now! You are having twins?” he asked shocked.

“Hai. Find Zhou. Mizuki come to haha.” I said.

She ran over to me and laid her head against my chest.

“Zuki bad?” she asked.

“No! Why would you ask such a thing?” I asked astonished.

“Cuz I ported.” She said lips trembling.

“No Mizuki you did wonderful! You did what you should have.” I said grimacing.

“Haha have brother?” she asked.

“Hai look there.” I said pointing to her sire.

Naraku's eyes were clouded over in unbelievable joy. He brought his son to meet his daughter.

“I named him Nori as you wished.” I said gouging the futon.

Quon came in with Yuudai in tow that looked highly angry at the Byakko. Quon handed the gauntlets to my general.

“Until we meet again inu.” He said in a snotty tone.

I knew he was doing it for the sake of discretion and I saw his eyes true feelings in his eyes. I nodded to him and he disappeared quickly. Another pain hit me and Yuudai came over and scented me carefully.

“What are you smelling mutt.” Naraku asked curiously.

“Asuna?” Yuudai asked me.

“Hai.” I said grimacing.

“Do you not scent it?” he asked softly

“Karuson I am in a great deal of pain. I gave birth on the battlefield and now this!” I nearly shrieked.

Yuudai looked at the healer and the old inu nodded. Yuudai's face showed his joy and it hit me. I was having his pup as well. I leaned back and groaned. Naraku looked impressed and nodded to Yuudai.

“Well we both got what we wanted.” He said.

Yuudai was grinning and I wanted to smack him. Naraku picked up Mizuki and held Nori in his other arm.

“I will give you time my friend. Thank you my little inu for my son.” He said smiling down at his pup.

“Thank you for bringing our daughter home.” I cried out.

I watched Naraku take our pups and Yuudai took my hands.

“I am not warm and fuzzy when I give birth. If you want to loose your manhood stay near me.” I growled furiously.

Yuudai actually grinned and held my hand tighter. The healer chuckled and I snarled.

“Bitches get unreasonable.” He said.

“You shove a pup out and see how you feel!” I snapped.

“My mate tried to gouge my eyes out.” The healer chuckled.

I growled in a fury and the urge to push came over me. Kamis I was hurting.

“I have Ishin's son prisoner. Have Naraku put those gauntlets on the bastard!” I snapped.

“Hai chuusin! I will be back soon.” Yuudai said as he deposited a kiss upon my lips.

I pushed myself up and bore down. Yasu the old healer watched me patiently.

“You know you should not have been on the battlefield my Lady.” He said.

“You know old man I could not give a crap! We were under attack.” I said then pushed; I grunted as the burning assaulted me,

“Harder my Lady. You are birthing a pup not playing in a dojo.” He snapped.

“Oh I am going to skin you!” I screamed.

I pushed harder and heard him chuckle louder, Yasu had been with my father's army forever. He did not look old he just was old. He was distantly related to our house and he was very good with medicines and herbs. Yuudai came back in and he got behind me. He was thrilled I could tell.

“Come on Lady Asuna, I have seen you put more effort with your fang.” Yasu said sarcasticlly.

I cried out and bore down with everything in me. Yuudai held my shoulders and his presence actually comforted me.

“Okay my Lady just a little bearing down. Very good. One more time.” He commanded.

I nodded and cried out again. I looked down and saw a silver haired pup come forth. He was bigger than Nori and cried almost as he hit the air. Yasu lifted him up for Yuudai to see and I started crying. This pup had been unexpected and I was happy. The healer cut his cord and wrapped him up. I looked at Yuudai and tears were in his eyes as well. Yasu handed my general his pup; Yuudai looked down at his son and he almost wept. My son had all of my magenta stripes but no crescent moon. He was wiggling and mewling. This one was the active one. He had been the one I felt move all the time. It seemed odd that Nori had been born first because his twin was obviously dominant. I opened my haori and put him to my breast which he took right away.

“He is hungry!” Yuudai said mesmerized.

“Look at what we did karuson.” I said softly.

“I am beyond speech,” he said wiping his eyes.

“Name him.” I prompted Yuudai.

“Ken'ichi?” he asked me.

“It fits him.” I said looking down.

“Asuna, we have to go back to the West. Your father and my father will want to see him.” Yuudai said excitedly.

“Hai. Can you have Naraku bring me Nori so I can feed him? He was not rooting as of yet.” I said exhausted.

“Hai. Chuusin I am so happy. You have given me a son. He is perfect!” Yuudai said proudly.

I nodded and looked down at Ken'ichi. He was a purely silver inu and my father would be pleased to no end. He was greedy already and I chuckled. Yuudai left me to get Nori.

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Naraku had spirited me into the Western Palace and we had masked. Yuudai and Naraku seemed to be even closer now. It was the strangest thing but they enjoyed talking. We had a situation like the inu of old did. It worked and I decided not to change a thing. Yuudai went and got my father and my sire rushed in. I grinned up at him.

“May I present Ken'ichi my Lord?” I said handing him my younger twin.

My father's eyes widened in complete shock when he scented the pup. He looked at Yuudai and smiled widely.

“This pleases me more than I can say.” He said.

He leaned down and looked at Nori and picked him up as well. He ran a claw along his jaw.

“I am pleased he looks like you.” He said softly to me.

“Thank you my Lord.” I said smiling.

“Yuudai send for your sire. Tell him I demand his presence at court.” My father said.

“Hai my Lord!” Yuudai said bowing.

Yuudai left to send for his father and my sire sat down with the twins.

“Naraku I assume is pleased.” He said softly.

“Hai he should be. Nori's sister is with their chichi.” I said grinning.

“Naraku managed to get Mizuki?” he asked.

“Hai and I captured Ishin's son.” I said.

“You have been busy.” He stated.

“Hai it is a long story. Where is mother?” I asked.

“Tending to Youshiro. He has been up to things again.” He replied in anger.

“I am sorry.” I replied.

“I will send her to you as soon as the boy has been punished.” He said standing.

“Hai Sir Yuuta should be here soon.” I said.

“Hai. I am pleased you are safe as well as the pups. I am very happy you were able to give Yuudai a son.” He said smiling down at him.

“I am too.” I said leaning back.

`”You have a nursemaid?” He asked.

“No.” I said.

“Mayu had a younger sister as well as an older. I think I shall call upon Mariko.” He said standing.

“I thank you my Lord.” I said inclining my head.

“Shezmu-sama said something I have been thinking on a lot. He stated that you were like the inu of old. I think you need to bring Sheng back into the fold somehow. Think on it.” He said as he left.

I was surprised he said as such and I looked at my newborn sons and did not think on much. Very soon Sir Yuuta came in and a grin immediately spread across his face. Yuudai presented him with his grandpup and he was very well pleased.

“His name is Ken'ichi Father.” Yuudai said.

“My Lady I am sorry I doubted you. You have given both houses a perfect little prince.” Yuuta said.

Ken'ichi took the opportunity to scrunch up his face and let loose a wail. I laughed and Yuuta handed him to me. Nori started rooting as well and cried too. His cries were softer and he did not cry often. Ken'ichi made noises as much as he could. Yuuta followed his son out and gave me privacy to feed my sons.

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“You had no idea?” Yuuta asked.

“My scent is on her father. Now that I think about it I should have known. I scented her pregnancy early on it just did not click. He is beautiful is he not?” Yuudai said proudly.

“Hai and he is a silver inu with a taiyouki mother. I imagine he will be one as well seeing the strength of her previous pups.” Yuuta said proudly as well.

“He has your eyes as well. Son he is perfect. I am very happy for you. You have also managed to cement your position in the royal house.” Yuuta stated.

“Like I care about that.” Yuudai said rolling his eyes.

“You managed to mate the princess and produce a pup. Our own house is elevated son regardless if you care or not!” Yuuta chuckled.

“Whatever Father. I am glad my son elevates your position. That is why I entered the army; I never gave a damn about court!” he snapped.

“Your son is wonderful Yuudai. We are all pleased.” Yuuta said.

“Hai thank you.” He said bowing.

“I am glad to see the dark one's son looks like the princess.” Yuuta remarked.

“Naraku is pleased that his son looks like his mate as well,” Yuudai answered stiffly.

“You like the dark youki?” His father asked surprised.

“Hai I do. He is intelligent and a master tactician. He loves his pups and has seen much. Hai I do like him.” Yuudai answered.

“Okay son.” Yuuta said shaking his.

Both males bowed as the Western Lady walked by. She winked at Yuudai and he beamed at her. Augusta slipped into Asuna's room and shut the door behind her.

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“My God Asuna they are beautiful! Is it true that you birthed Nori on the battlefield?” My mother asked me.

“Hai. Shanghai was attacked by Tsuchigumo and I was in labor. Quon came to me.” I said looking at her.

“Ah I see. Young Prince Quon felt something wrong hmmm?” she asked.

“Hai.” I said sheepishly.

“If I was not mated to your father; he is beyond tempting Asuna.” She whispered.

“Hai. I am exhausted. Ishin's son was taken prisoner as well. He was healed from his wounds and those yoki dampening manacles placed upon him.” I stated.

“Is he in the dungeons?” she asked.

“No. He is in the far south side of the palace. He is the smaller apartments. He is under heavy guard.” I stated.

“Mizuki is home then.” She said.

“Hai but things are far from over.” I remarked.

“I know but you have your daughter back.” Augusta said happily.

“Hai. Naraku is going to come this evening.” I warned her.

“That is fine as far as I am concerned. I will keep your father quite busy.” Augusta winked.

“May I ask you a question?” I asked

“Hai?” she remarked.

“Why is Sheng staying gone?” I asked.

“He is not actually. He wanted to spend time with Hiroto and Kazuo alone; they needed this time to reconnect. He wanted you to give birth and he intends to stay in your life Asuna. He loves you passionately. You have three males that love you with their very souls.” She remarked amazed.

“Does he intend to make my life hell?” I asked.

“Sheng is more subtle than Naraku or Yuudai my dear girl. Be careful and try to give your body a rest. You have had too many pups back to back.” She warned.

“What of my promise to the Kami?” I asked.

“We shall see about that.” She said softly.

I looked confused and she picked up Nori who had finished eating. Ken'ichi still nursed and with gusto.

“Even though they do not share the same sire; will they be close?” I asked.

“Hai. They shared the womb my dear. They are twins no matter what.” She said softly.

“Goodness he is a barracuda!” I said widening my eyes.

“He eats the same way his haha did. Osamu was a lazy eater and always liked to sleep. You on the other hand would eat and you started crawling very early. You changed to your true form your second day of life. Your father used to have to walk the halls to try and get you to sleep. Rin would walk the halls trying to get you to sleep. Osamu always slept through it.” She told me laughing.

I laughed with her and she laid Nori on the futon next to me. She stood and nodded. She left silently and I took the opportunity to sleep with the twins.

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Mizuki knew her chichi was going to be mad but Karu was at Jii-chan's house. She walked her little three year old feet along the palace and finally found the spider boy. She evaded the guards and went inside.

“Mizuki? What are you doing here?” Karu asked.

“Karu bad! Karu hurt my haha.” Mizuki said narrowing her mahogany eyes.

“She is my father's enemy you little brat.” Karu snapped.

“You my friend.” She said putting her little hands on her hips.

“Hai I am your friend. Can you get me out of here?” he asked.

“No.” Mizuki said.

“What? You said I was your friend!” the young tsuchigumo said.

“Hai you my friend but you bad!” Mizuki said then stuck her tongue out at him.

“Mizuki please! I know you can release me.” He cried.

“No! You bad. Your chichi bad!” she snapped.

“My chichi did not hurt you! My chichi wants you to know where you come from. Your own chichi and haha will not do that.” Karu said narrowing his eyes.

“Karu liar. Karu bad.” Mizuki said her eyes flashing crimson.

“Mizuki you are part tsuchigumo. I am not bad either!” Karu snapped at the fearsome little onna.

“Karu liar. You will stay and be my friend.” Mizuki said coming closer.

“Mizuki I miss my chichi.” Karu said trying to play on her sympathies.

“Sorry.” She said and climbed on the futon and kissed his cheek.

“Mizuki please let me go.” Karu whined.

“No you hurt my haha and chichi. You are Zuki's friend.” She said softly.

He growled in a temper. The daughter of Naraku and Lady Asuna had confounded his father. She had displayed mastery of her yoki at such a young age. He had been sent to retrieve the boy from the inu but she had burned the snot out of him and was not affected by his venom. He had been shocked. He was only thirty two summers but he was normally a fierce fighter. His father would be staging a rescue mission soon. Karu looked at the tiny female and knew if his father Ishin had his way that this would be his future mate. He actually liked the tiny girl.

“I am Mizuki's friend.” He said sighing.

“Karu bad and chichi will spank you!” she said standing.

“I am not bad!” he snapped.

“Zuki bring you toys?” she asked.

“Get me out of here.” He whined.

“No. Bye bye. I see you later.” She said disappearing.

Mizuki appeared in the nursery and tried to look as innocent as possible. Her chichi came in and looked very angry. She smiled up at him and he visibly relaxed.

“See Nori?” she asked.

“Hai we shall see your brother.” Naraku said picking her up.

“You spank spider boy?” she asked.

“You know the tsuchigumo?” he asked surprised.

“Hai. He Karu. He Zuki's friend.” She said laughing.

“Really. Shall I spank the spider boy?” he asked.

“Hai he bad. He hurt haha.” She said.

“Hai I think I shall. Mizuki go to haha now.” He said.

Mizuki threw her arms around him and muttered love you chichi. She kissed him on his lips quickly and he put her down; she ran into her mother's room. Naraku decided to visit the young funnel web. He transported himself via his miasma directly to the boy. He looked at this Karu. He was half grown and had shiny ebony hair that came past his shoulders. His eyes were the color of obsidian and they seemed like they were cold.

“You are Karu?” Naraku asked coldly.

“Hai.” He snapped.

“Mizuki says I should discipline you for being bad.” He said with a malicious smirk.

“You listen to a three year old?” Karu retorted.

“I do when she had been kidnapped.” He retorted back.

“We did not harm her! She was treated well. You were an idiot to think you bound her powers.” Karu said laughing.

“How did you unbind her yoki?” Naraku asked.

“We did not. She just did it.” He said.

“Interesting. I wonder she stayed.” The dark one contemplated.

“She could not teleport but she could do other things. Her shoki actually killed one of my father's nobles. Hai we are more organized than you think!” he snapped.

“Boy I could care less how organized you are. I could not give a damn about you. The only reason you are alive is because my mate wills it. She does not make a habit of killing children but for you I could make an exception!” Naraku stated as his eyes became crimson.

“I know who you are! You are my uncle.” Karu actually said in fear.

“I am Naraku! Hisashi died nearly a thousand summers ago! I may remember that life but I can promise you that I am a hell of a lot more dangerous now.” He said with a cruel smirk.

“You killed your own father!” Karu yelled.

“Oh yes. You see I was not born of a mother and father. I am unique and if you think I will ever show your sire mercy after what he has done; you are a deluded fool.” Naraku snapped then stepped forward.

“Go ahead.” Karu snapped.

“No. You will be useful to me alive. Asuna has pity for you but I think you are old enough to understand that you do not go around kidnapping innocent younglings. No there are worse things than death. I could absorb your yoki.” He said wrapping a tentacle around the boy.

Karu looked frightened and knew this creature could decimate him. He closed his eyes and prayed to his Kami for strength in death. Naraku laughed and threw the boy with all his strength. He hit a wall with a sickening thud. Karu looked up and saw Naraku pace.

“You will learn that I am nothing like your dead uncle.” He snapped.

“Actually I think you are just like him! You both have no honor!” he snapped right back.

“Your sire does? He took a three year old toddler! She does not contemplate evil intentions! She cares if her dolls have the right kimono on and if her brothers got more than her! She maybe a powerful youki but she is just a tiny little girl!” Naraku growled in a terrible fury.

Karu backed up in fear and said nothing further. His father under estimated this youki. He was powerful and deadly. He almost pissed his pants in terror. He prayed his sire would hurry and retrieve him. He was not scared of the inu onna but her mate. Naraku disappeared into his miasma and the young tsuchigumo sat down. He wished he could change into his true form; he could be quite deadly that way. He wished his could at least make a web; something to sleep in at least.

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

Airi and Osamu had returned to see the twins. She had birthed her pup a month before. Osamu had a little girl and he was proud. I sat with my twin and his mate and we laughed over the infants.

“By the way I captured the son of Ishin. He is in the south palace complex.” I said to Airi.

“I think I should like to meet him.” She said standing.

“He is young Airi.” I said.

“I will not devour him Asuna!” she said laughing.

“Zuki go too?” Mizuki piped up.

“You wish to see the tsuchigumo?” I asked.

“Hai haha.” She answered.

“You will take Aunt Airi to see him?” I asked.

“Hai. Karu bad spider. Chichi spank.” She replied very seriously.

Airi busted out laughing and took my daughter's hand. She walked her aunt very solemnly to the south palace complex. Mizuki had a present for the boy; she had caught him a small rabbit that she had stunned with her miasma. Airi followed her and the guards let Lady Airi pass with the young princess. Mizuki squealed and ran to Karu.

“Chichi spank you?” she asked.

“Pretty much. What do you want now brat?” he asked.

“Zuki not brat! Brought you present.” She said pouting.

Airi watched carefully as Mizuki brought the boy a stunned rabbit. Karu looked surprised and took it from her.

“It alive. You kill it?” she asked as she sat next to him.

“I cannot. My venom is suppressed.” He said sighing.

Mizuki reached over and pressed her tiny hand and the manacle cracked a little.

“You can use little. You stay and play with Zuki.” She said smiling brightly.

Karu sank his claws into the rabbit and he was able to release a very small amount of venom. Airi was shocked at the amount of control the little onna showed. Karu looked at Mizuki in shock.

“You eat rabbit?” she asked him.

“Hai I will eat the rabbit.” He said smiling down at her.

“You are fortunate she likes you. I would have killed you.” Airi said softly.

“Why because we do not follow your tepid rule?” Karu said snapping.

“Hai. I have kept the majority of our kind alive.” She said narrowing her eyes.

“You are nothing but an ookami tsuchigumo. The real power lies in the funnel web and widows. You are nothing!” He snapped.

Mizuki slapped his hand and he looked down at her.

“Be good! Karu being bad! Chichi will spank you.” She said pouting.

“Mizuki this is big people conversation.” He admonished her.

“Karu be good, please?” Mizuki begged.

“Hai I would listen to the little one. Your grandsire was evil and Ishin seems to be taking on the same characteristics.” Airi said coldly.

“Because he did not like ningen and he punished those who needed it?” he asked in anger.

“Ishin did not tell you that he devoured his own kind? Do you know what happened to your grandmere?” she said cruelly.

“No.” he said looking away.

“He ate her. Do you understand that your father's mother was liquefied and drained of her innards? Do you know all she did was disagree? I saw it happen with my own eyes.” She said.

“Why would my grandsire do that?” Karu asked horrified.

“Because he could! You are right in that I helped my cousin kill him; it was kill or be killed. Your father was but a tiny youngling. Barely older than little Mizuki here.” Airi said bluntly.

Karu looked horrified and Mizuki latched onto his neck and hugged him tightly. Airi was concerned at her obvious devotion to the young funnel web.

“You eat rabbit?” Mizuki asked.

“Zuki I am not hungry anymore.” He said almost ghost white.

“Karu please?” she implored him.

“I will leave you now. Think on what I have said young Karu.” Airi said bluntly.

“Bye bye Karu! Eat bunny!' Mizuki cried jumping up.

“Zuki stay please.” Karu begged.

Airi shook her head no and Mizuki winked at her friend. He tried not to smile and nodded. Airi took her out and they walked back to her sister in law's room. Mizuki ran into the nursery and ported right back to Karu. He smiled at her and she pointed to the rabbit. He nodded and she jumped up on the futon as he partook. She laid her head against his side and he rubbed her head.

“Why are you so nice to me?” Karu asked her.

“Karu is my friend.” She said.

“My chichi is your chichi's enemy.” He said darkly.

“Karu not my enemy. Karu is Zuki's friend.” She said looking at him.

“My chichi wants you to stay with me when you are older.” He said softly.

“Why? We play? I bring dolls.” She said innocently.

“No dolls Zuki. Karu is sleepy.” He said yawning.

`You want web?” she asked.

“Hai I hate these beds.” He said looking disdainfully at the futon.

“I let you make web. You play dolls with Zuki?” She asked.

“Hai.” He agreed.

He wondered if he could convince her to release just enough of his yoki and he could escape. He hated using her but she was a powerful little thing. He looked at her at and knew she would be a completely gorgeous onna. She was going to be lithe and tall. He actually wanted to see her grow up. She put her tiny claws on his manacle again and it cracked a little more.

“Make web?” She asked.

He released his silk and grew excited. Karu went to the corner and made a giant web. He was thrilled to no end and motioned for the tiny onna to come to him. He lifted her up and put her at the top of his web and she slid down. She shrieked in delight and he repeated it again.

“You play dolls!” she yelled.

“Hai I will play dolls.” He said sitting at the base of the web.

They played for awhile and she fell asleep in his lap. He lifted her against his chest and held her while he thickened the web and made it funnel shaped. He would at least sleep better this night. He fell asleep with her tucked next to him.

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

Airi led me into the young funnel web's room. I was astonished to see a huge web and Karu fast asleep in it.

“The young prefer their webs; they feel more secure.” Airi explained.

“Mizuki is asleep right next to him!” I whispered.

“She likes him too much Asuna.” Airi warned.

“He is but a child Airi.” I said.

“Old enough to kill.” She said darkly.

“He could have hurt Mizuki but did not.” I pointed out.

“You are going to let them spend time together?” she asked.

“Hai.” I said shrugging.

Mizuki looked up from her bed and grinned at me. I recognized the devotion she had to the boy; I had the same for her chichi. She laid her head back down and went to sleep.

“I will need to retrieve her though.” I sighed.

-Mizuki come to haha. - I pathed to her.

She looked up and pouted but I pointed to my side. She kissed Karu on his cheek and then ported over to me. He looked up at me and frowned.

“I would not have hurt her.” He murmured.

“I know but her chichi would have a fit.” I said.

“Please allow her to see me. It is lonely in here.” He said softly.

“I will allow it but she will not be allowed to release anymore of your yoki. If she does she will be forbidden.” I said.

“Alright I promise.” He said.

“Asuna!” Airi hissed.

“Shut up bitch!” Karu cursed.

“Karu be bad!” Mizuki cried.

“Hush Mizuki. Haha will handle this.” I told her.

“Your word of honor or you will be completely subdued and in the dungeons.” I said bluntly.

“Hai.” He agreed.

Mizuki looked at me and I nodded. She ported back to him and he wrapped his arm around her. It was obvious the boy liked her. It reminded me of Yuudai and I. I would have to watch my daughter and the young funnel web. I left and Airi followed.

“Are you insane?” she seethed.

“Why make anymore of an enemy than we have to Airi. It is obvious they have formed an attachment. He would loathe hurting her. He would think twice before attacking us again.” I surmised.

“How sure can you be?” she asked.

“I know my daughter.” I replied.

“You do not know him though.” She pointed out.

“Hai I recognize the type.” I said smiling.

“Who?” she asked curiously.

“Hisashi.” I muttered.

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

Mizuki had lined up every doll she and Hana owned. She made the dogs knock over the ningen and she would make growling noises. Karu laughed at her and she scowled.

“I not funny.” She snapped.

“Hai you are.” He chuckled.

“Zuki not puppy. Zuki not anything.” She said looking up at him.

“Mizuki you are part inu and part tsuchigumo.” He said.

“No. Zuki is hanyou.” She said sighing.

“Why do you say that?” he asked astonished.

“Zuki cannot change.” She said looking at him sadly.

“You are a pretty onna Zuki. You do not need to be a big nasty inu or a big hairy spider!” he said tickling her.

She shrieked in laughter and smiled up at him.

“You miss chichi?” she asked.

“Hai.” He sighed.

“I make you go.” She said.

“No. I promised your haha.” He said sighing again.

“I not promise haha.” She said smiling.

“Zuki do not.” He said.

She laid her tiny clawed hands on the manacles and they heated up. They fell off and he looked down at her.

“I miss you.” She said kissing his cheek.

“I will find you again, I promise!” he said excitedly.

Mizuki backed up and the young funnel web disappeared into his venomous miasma. She waved goodbye to him; she did not want him to miss his chichi as she had. She cried a little and started to pick up her dolls. Her chichi would be angry but she did the right thing she decided; Karu was her friend after all.

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