InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ On the Offensive ( Chapter 48 )

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

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

On the Offensive

Yasu worked my arm and I gritted my teeth. This was the most severe blow I had received to a limb ever. I still had to keep it splinted but it had stitched back together. My back had healed but I had to keep on sleeveless kosodes for now. Yasu had started splinting my shoulder again and I grimaced.

“My Lady you will need much more time to gain full function. That means no running around trying to beat up any tsuchigumo or scorpions.” Yasu chastised me.

“Old man I do not allow anyone else to speak to me as such.” I growled.

“Like I care? They do not have to stitch you up or deliver your pups!” he snapped.

“Kamis Yasu. Stitch your own mouth shut! Mayu never gave me this much grief!” I snapped back.

“Mayu was also like a second mother to you girl. Shut your trap long enough and you might learn a thing or two!” he growled.

I narrowed my eyes and he roughly tied off my splint. I yelped in pain and he patted it for extra measure. I scowled at him and he chuckled. I stood up from my seat in the garden and stalked off. The old inu was one of the best youki physicians around and he was coveted closely by the West. I needed to bring Osamu back home and I teleported to Scotland. I was already tired and the porting took a lot out of me. I was by the lake and I walked towards Sutherland Castle. The guards at the gate allowed me in and I nodded to them. I moved to the banqueting hall and saw my brother and new sister in law. She looked quite lovely and Osamu was smiling and he turned to see me. His face fell into a scowl and he jumped up to come to me; Lord MacEwan also jumped up.

“Asuna! What in Kamis name happened?” Osamu hissed coming to my side.

“Kyoto was attacked. We won but Yuudai and I were injured.” I said shrugging.

“Why did you not come for me?” he demanded.

“Because it happened so quickly. I am fine and so is Yuudai. Hello Lord Cawley.” I acknowledged the kitsune lord.

“Lass yer arm! How bad was it?” Cawley asked.

“A scorpion tried to shear my arm off. I am fine really!” I said annoyed.

“Come sit then and tell us of yer battle.” Cawley demanded.

“Yes. I am tired; I could use a meal.” I said coming to sit.

I looked over and noticed Collum. He was staring at my arm and then at my face. I glared at him and then picked up a goblet and drank some spiced wine. I sat down next to Osamu and he looked at me concerned.

“What is wrong?” he asked me in Japanese.

“I am very tired is all brother. I have been mobilizing the army to the south. I think the tsuchigumo will attack at or near Nagasaki,” I replied.

“You should have gotten me! I had a right to be there and you nearly lost your damn arm!” he hissed.

“Osamu, I told you I am fine.” I said irritated.

“You do not have enough yoki to port us back do you?” he asked me bluntly.

“No.” I admitted.

“You need to sleep and eat. You are off; I can sense it.” Osamu commanded.

“Fine scent me closer okay!” I snapped.

My brother leaned in and scented me very closely and he looked at me shocked. I glared at him and he jerked me towards him.

“I told you to be careful with the Byakko!” he hissed.

“What? No, it cannot be.” I said confused.

“You scent of tiger Sister. Kamis in heaven what have you done?” he snapped.

“He was down in a battle and I brought him back to Changsha.” I explained.

“You rutted with him too.” Osamu accused.

“Kamis this is a mess!” I said laying my head in my hands.

“This is a Byakko sister. Neko and inu? You cannot have this pup!” he said quietly.

“Are you suggesting I end it? Are you insane?” I asked him in anger.

“I am suggesting that maybe you make yourself vulnerable in a battle. Not even you can do this Asuna. You have gone too far this time.” Osamu said grabbing me.

“It was alright for Akemi to mate a neko but not me?” I hissed.

“Akemi is not pure inu and she is not the heir to the most powerful inu state in the world!” he yelled.

We were being stared at for not only arguing but doing so in Japanese.

“You can mate a tsuchigumo and then a kitsune and you get irate over my liaisons?” I yelled back.

“You cannot have this pup Asuna! Its life would be in danger anyway.” He insisted.

“I would never suggest you kill a pup of yours. How dare you!” I growled.

“Asuna, you will be in danger and so will Prince Quon. No Byakko or inu will accept this. You pushed it with Naraku.” He said reasonably.

“Osamu! Yer upsetting yer sister. Can ye calm down?” Aileana asked softly.

“My love my sister is not thinking clearing.” Osamu said to her.

“Screw you Osamu!” I snapped.

I stood and stormed out of the banqueting hall. I walked out of the castle and settled by a tree. I stared at the water and I knew Osamu was right. I was bitter and knew Quon would be floored. I heard footsteps and looked to see the ookami hanyou.

“Leave me alone. I am injured and not in a pleasant mood.” I growled low.

“Ye and yer brother were fixing te have a row.” He observed.

“Yes we were. Thank you for stating the obvious!” I snapped.

“Is it possible fer ye not te be a hateful hound?” he hissed at me.

“You wish to talk? Pull up some grass and let us talk.” I said sarcasticlly.

He sat down and looked thoughtfully at me. I closed my eyes and knew things were bad.

“Ye look like ye want te kill something.” He said.

“I am thinking of how not to kill something. I am pupped by an adversary and rival to the inu in general. My brother thinks I should end the pregnancy.” I said staring at the lake.

“Who?” he asked intrigued.

“He is a silver tiger. They are a powerful group of taiyouki in China. He is the heir to his father's title as I am. I displaced them from a city in northern Japan. I should not have become involved but I did.” I admitted.

“Do ye care about the big cat?” he asked.

“Hai too much.” I said quietly.

“Then maybe ye should say te hell with them all.” He said.

“You do not understand the politics in Asia. I go against the traditions of my land completely. I have taken more than one mate as if I were a male ruler. It is common for some lands and rulers to have many concubines. I have adopted the practice it seems. My father's nobles as well as those of Lord Chen's will be up in arms.” I said sadly.

“Look I know ye dona know me well but take my word fer it and stand up fer yerself.” He stated.

“You are half human and half wolf. It is not quite the same Collum. I cannot tell him of this and I cannot see him anymore.” I said clenching my jaw.

“Ye dona strike me as afeared of much. Why are ye afeared of this?” he asked me.

“I am not afraid for me Collum. I can handle myself. Thank you for listening.” I said standing.

I slowly walked away and went back into the castle. I nodded to Osamu and he came up to me; he pulled me into a hug and tears stung my eyes.

“Look I am sorry. I cannot see a way out of this.” He said into my ear.

“You are right. I have to end the liaison; it is becoming too complicated. I projected to him after a battle he was involved with. He was injured badly and I gave him my blood to counteract the tsuchigumo venom. When I saw him next things got rather heated rather quickly.” I said softly.

I lifted my wrist and showed him the healed fang marks. His eyes widened and he shook his head.

“He left his mark on you. Kamis Asuna! Do you realize that the Byakko can claim you?” he snapped.

“Enough! It is not a mating mark!” I snapped.

“How is it not? What rules state that a mating mark is supposed to be on necks? It is by instinct Sister to go for the jugular so to speak. He bit in forcefully enough to leave a scar.” He said bluntly.

“No one will take it seriously.” I said in denial.

“Especially since you carry his offspring.” He stated sarcasticlly.

I put my finger up in his face as a warning.

“Get your mate! We leave now; I will channel your yoki if necessary.” I stated in a testy tone.

“She is staying to get things prepared. It is just us for now.” He said.

I grabbed his arm and forcefully channeled his yoki and I teleported us to the West. I let him go and I ported to Shanghai to be alone. I went into my study and lay down on a chaise. I was screwed I figured. Tamiko would have good counsel. I needed to see the witch soon. If Osamu could scent the Byakko on me then others would too. I did not need to be pupped right now and I intended to ask Akemi how to prevent it since I did not follow a normal heat cycle. I let myself take a nap.

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“My Lady! My Lady!” Zhou shook me gently.

“Hai?” I asked waking up.

“I am sorry to bother you but the Hunan prince is here.” She said softly.

“Send him away.” I said rolling over.

“My Lady?” she asked surprised.

“Hai! Please tell him I cannot see him right now. I need to sleep.” I said in a grumpy tone.

“Pardon my impertinence my Lady but is it because you carry his offspring?” she asked very softly.

“Hai Zhou. You obviously know of my trysts so I will not pretend anything with you.” I said sighing.

“My Lady! I am your humble servant but I can assist you.” She said very softly.

“How?” I asked intrigued.

“Your secrets are safe with me. Shall I send him in?” she asked again softly.

“Zhou, I really am exhausted.” I said sighing again.

“He looks anxious.” She replied.

“Send him in.” I replied against good sense.

She left me and I managed to doze again. I felt masculine hands on me and I opened my eyes to see Quon. I sighed and looked at him directly in the eyes.

“I am sensing you even from Hunan. I have no idea how this is happening but I feel your melancholy.” He said sitting by the chaise.

I lifted my wrist and he saw the scars. He looked confused and I sighed louder.

“You marked me inadvertently. You may not be telepathic but you are perceptive which means you will feel your mate.” I said closing my eyes.

“Wait a minute; I did not mark your throat!” he said defensively.

“Your beast marked me Quon. Apparently it matters not where you mark; the mark was left visible.” I said in an exhausted voice.

“That was not my intention! I am sorry inu.” He said quietly.

“Well that pales in comparison to the fact that I am quite pregnant. Go ahead and scent closer. It is faint but there.” I said cynically.

Quon scented my neck and I saw his silver eyes widen in disbelief. I could not seem to look at him and I clenched my jaw.

“My twin says to end it now. I find the idea very offensive but he is right of course. I am the Byakko's enemy; I mean I laid siege to Sapporo and took it. What inu or Byakko would condone this?” I asked.

“My sire would. How dare your brother suggest you kill my cub!” he said dangerously.

“He is thinking for both our safety. Inu will not accept this.” I said shaking my head.

“My father is extremely powerful Asuna! He would condone our union. It may not stand in your lands but it will in Hunan. How could you even think to end this life?” he asked me.

“I think of both of us. Besides there is no love lost between us.” I said rubbing the bridge of my nose.

“Speak for yourself inu. You will not kill my cub; I will not allow it.” He said growing highly agitated.

“What do you suggest Prince Quon? I am lawfully mated to Yuudai. I am informally mated to Naraku and Sheng. Where shall this pup or cub fit in?” I asked him suddenly angry.

“I told you in Hunan. You are coming with me for now.” He said gathering me into his arms.

Before I could protest, he ported us through his shoki mist to Hunan. I was furious but kept my temper. He stayed calm but his tail was thrashing about wildly. He pulled me along till we made it to the throne room. Lord Chen Hu was amongst many Byakko and Bengal tigers. Quon dragged me behind him and bowed before his sire.

“Ba I need to speak with you now.” He said rather urgently.

“Quon what is she doing here?” Chen asked narrowing his eyes.

“Ba please! My Lord it is of the utmost import.” Quon said calmly.

Chen watched his son's body language and he stood. The tigers made a path and Quon dragged me behind him again.

“Do you feel my fury now?” I hissed softly.

“Yes very clearly!” Quon hissed back.

We made it to a den of some sort and Quon shut the massive door. Chen sat at a desk and looked at me and his son.

“I will be blunt my Lord. Lady Asuna and I have been lovers for sometime.” Quon stated.

“Excuse me? You said you hated her.” Chen said in disbelief.

“Not an accurate statement Ba. I wanted discretion and that is why she acted the way she did in the Western Palace. She did it on my wishes. I did not think it would be wise to announce that I was in love with the nu zi responsible for taking Sapporo. I also assumed it would not sit well with the nobles that she was inu.” Quon said.

“Well Quon you have managed to fool us all. Lady Asuna you did an admirable act at the Western Palace. What is the issue?” Chen asked almost amused.

Quon lifted my wrist and my cheeks were burning crimson. Chen's eyes widened and he sat back.

“She is pregnant as well.” Quon admitted.

“You want me to stand behind you no matter the fall out, correct?” The Hunan Lord asked his eldest son.

“Yes Ba. I will not allow my cub to be killed, I will not!” Quon said glaring at me.

“Lady Asuna I do not think I have ever heard you this quiet.” Chen said hiding his smirk.

“We would be fools to think that this union does not present problems.” I said bluntly.

“Why did you rescue Quon?” Chen demanded.

“I could not allow him to die.” I said stiffly.

“Well such sentiment inu.” Chen said sarcasticlly.

“You want me to say I love him? Fine I love Quon! It does not change a damn thing! I have a mate consort!” I hissed.

Quon held my wrist tighter and I glared at him.

“Lady Asuna you may have a mate consort in the West but Quon does not. Your mating would stand here as well as your offspring. I would go to war if that cub in your belly is harmed.” Chen said bluntly.

I stared at both Byakko males as if they had lost their minds.

“I cannot do this right now!” I snapped.

“Then when Lady Asuna? Do you intend to cower away?” Chen asked in a nasty tone.

“Ba that is not helping!” Quon said softly.

“I cannot commit myself to you exclusively!” I snapped at Quon.

“I know the situation Asuna. Walk away from me if you wish but you will not kill my cub.” He said with narrowed eyes.

I looked around and wanted to destroy something or anything.

“I have no wish to be away from you but what am I supposed to do?” I demanded.

“Cover it up and I will kidnap you again so to speak.” Quon suggested stubbornly.

“How do I cover up a pregnancy? I can mask the scent for awhile but it will become quite obvious after awhile.” I said in a tired voice.

“We can figure it out. I can manage the political consequences.” Quon said taking my hand.

“This cub would have no rights in inu society. I have an heir in my first born son Hiroto.” I said softly.

“I could care less about the Western Inu. Hell, I could care less about the different Chinese inu. You yourself are not even full blooded inu; why should our offspring suffer?” he asked me.

“You are telling me that this cub so to speak will be your heir?” I asked surprised.

“I mated you did I not? In Byakko society you are my mate and therefore our cubs would be in line for the title.” Quon stated staring at me hard.

“I am still the heir to the West and I am regent of Manchuria and I rule Shanghai and Hong Kong.” I said looking away.

“You have Hong Kong too?” Chen asked surprised.

“Hai.” I responded raising a brow.

“You have been graced inu. I am surprised the mortal Chinese have not made moves towards you.” Chen remarked.

“Who says they have not? Emperor Wanli is no friend of mine.” I said haughtily.

“Ah yes the Jing incident.” He said settling in his chair.

“Hai. He housed her knowingly in Tianjin and that is why Manchuria laid siege to the city. I assure you that particular mortal can kiss my ass.” I said crossing my arms.

“You become more and more embroiled in the politics of the mainland then you do of the islands Lady Asuna.” Chen observed.

“Shanghai is profitable; for you as well as me.” I stated.

“Ba is any of this necessary?” Quon asked his sire.

“Not really but you should know the extent of her rule my son. I imagine her answers would surprise you.” Chen stated with an eyebrow raised.

“I have tracts of land from Shanghai to Tibet; I inherited them from Lord Tekeshi upon his death at Zhuanghe. Manchuria officially belongs to my son Ang Chi but he is still a pup and I am regent but you know all this Lord Chen.” I said.

“Yes I do actually. Hunan benefits from a mating between you and Quon. Your cub will have everything it needs here in Hunan and China; it will not need a damn thing from the islands.” He said bluntly.

“No wonder you have no issue with this situation! You will try and take advantage of it!” I hissed.

“I am being pragmatic Lady Asuna. You did after all take Sapporo and my son I might add. No I think your cub should be made to inherit several of the cities you control. Think of it as providing for your offspring.” He said smirking.

“Ba that is enough!” Quon said in a testy tone.

“Quon Hu! You realize that I was in negotiations to have you betrothed to a Mongolian Princess. The Bengals will be displeased. You present me with your happiness and it comes at a price young man!” Chen snarled.

Quon bowed his head and I was confounded.

“What are you saying my status is here Lord Chen?” I asked bluntly.

“The same as his mother's. Meifen is my chief mate and Lady. Our customs allow for Quon to have as many mates as he wishes as you so obviously do. This is a unique situation but I believe it can work. Your cub will be Quon's heir.” He answered.

“What of the tigress you were trying to push on him?” I demanded.

“That is up to Quon now. He has insured our dynasty. I suggest you be careful between now and the birth; I look forward to what this cub shall look like.” Chen said amused.

“How long is a tiger pregnancy?” I demanded once again.

“Eight to ten months.” Quon offered.

“Great just fucking great!” I snapped.

“Look inu we have a little time to figure this out.” Quon said as I stomped away from him.

“I did not want to pupped or cubbed as you say! I have tsuchigumo and scorpions to kill!” I snapped.

“Look I did not mean for this to happen and I will help you keep it a secret from the damn inu so you can save face. I refuse to believe that you detest the idea of this!” Quon said coming closer and starting to get angry.

“I do not detest it just it could not come at a worse time! You cannot tell me that you truly wanted this to happen! Why did you bite my wrist instead of my jugular? I will tell you because it was to avoid this!” I said in a temper.

“Then you can birth my cub and I will stay out of your life but I will have my offspring.” He said coming closer and his eyes had flashed red.

“Well at least you are not like Katashi. He denied Jing and Ang Chi; you would just deny me.” I said laughing bitterly.

“I love you! I have not said it because I did not want it to come between what we have had. I tell you everything Asuna and I come to Shanghai and I am myself. I am not the Prince of Hunan; I am just Quon.” He said as he reached up holding the sides of my face.

“Will you mate that tigress? I mean I have no right to say anything but I am curious.” I said quietly.

“Why? You are an entitled lady with much land; as far as my father is concerned I struck gold so to speak.” He chuckled.

“There is a kitsune healer in Naha. Zhou also seemed to indicate that she could help me. I hate to cover this up but the nobles in the West will absolutely go ballistic. Yuudai is my consort.” I said shaking my head.

“I will go to any lengths to protect my interests inu. I get what your status is on the islands but my father is correct and it matters not to the Byakko, Amur, or Bengals.” He stated flatly.

“We are going to act as if I am not pregnant and I am not your mate. Outside of Shanghai and Hunan we are nothing?” I asked him.

“That is what I am suggesting.” He replied.

“Kamis what the hell have I done?” I said softly.

“We. It is what we did inu. I was there and this would not have happened if I had not lost control but I take care of my own; you and our cub are mine.” He said nipping my lips.

He possessed my mouth and I reached up and held his face too. I broke away and looked around.

“I need to go back to Shanghai then Naha.” I stated.

“Of course.” He said pulling me to him.

This course I knew was going to be tricky and a long road.

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I stood in a small village and Zhou was beside me. I had made the timid young inu onna the head of my household. She was knowledgeable of much and her loyalty unwavering. I found the small hut the kitsune healer was said to dwell in. I knocked on the frame and she said come. Zhou and I went in and I saw not the kitsune but Tamiko the witch.

“Where is the healer?” I asked in confusion.

“I am the healer Lady Asuna. I am sorry I had not told you sooner. You have an issue that needs attention.” She said sitting.

“Were you ever a human?” I asked curiously.

“No.” she said mixing herbs.

“Were you a Kami?” I asked.

“I guess you could say that. Teruyoshi protects the ningen and I protect the inu. Strange I know but that is what I do.” She said softly.

“I do not understand.” I said shaking my head.

“Do not try. I assist you and many others. It is just what I do.” She said smiling.

“Yet you cannot bind Mizuki's yoki?” I asked surprised.

“No one can. No one will be able to bind Nori's either.” She said grinding more herbs in a pestle.

“What are you making?” I asked her thoughtfully.

“Something to completely mask your dilemma and something to speed the healing of your shoulder. You are right about Nagasaki.” She stated bluntly.

“I wish for no more pups for quite awhile after this; can you help me with that too?” I asked.

“Hai I can! I can put off Kaito for quite awhile longer if need be.” She muttered.

“What about this pup? What is going to happen?” I asked softly.

“You will follow what I say exactly and you will allow him to be raised in Hunan. He will take after his chichi more than you.” She said candidly.

“Another son.” I replied.

“Mizuki and Hana will be like their haha, do not worry.” She chuckled.

“I am relieved they will be warriors.” I said.

“Hai they will. Drink this first.” She said handing me a cup.

I took the drink and scented it. It was vaguely sweet and I downed it. She took the cup back and started mixing the other herbs and added water. She handed it back to me and I drank it. It was putrid and I gagged. She chuckled softly and sat back.

“That will heal your arm much quicker. The first will cover your pregnancy scent totally. Now when you show much later you will need to be in Hunan. He will arrive in about eight months give or take a week.” She stated.

“Can you help Akemi? She has gone crazy Anupu said.” I remarked.

“I will go to Kyoto next then. Act normal Asuna. Act as though nothing has changed. You also need to keep Chen away from your mother.” She said standing.

“He is enamored with her.” I said.

“Hai that is an under statement. The Byakko are very powerful.” She said standing.

I stood and met Zhou outside. She bowed and Tamiko waved.

“Remember everything is the same. Outside of China Quon Hu is barely tolerable.” She said again candidly.

“I understand.” I said walking away with Zhou.

“Scent me closely.” I commanded.

“I scent you my Lady. I scent no pup.” She said smiling.

“Good. I cannot believe I am doing this.” I said softly.

Zhou just kept silent and followed. I inhaled softly and realized my arm was not aching. I smirked and decided that I needed a dojo.

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Yasu was working my left arm and it was healed; very sore but healed.

“Messing with a witch! You are damn lucky she did not try and kill you!” he hissed.

“Shut up old man!” I snapped.

“You can practice with it but I swear you better not come back with it cut off!” he snapped at me.

I glared at him and stood up. I was tucking in my haori and I went to Yuudai's study.

“We spar.” I said flatly.

“I am not quite up for that chuusin. Take Baku.” He said.

He looked tired but on the mend.

“I want your armor reinforced.” I commanded.

“Hai chuusin.” He said rolling his eyes.

“Yuudai do not!” I growled.

“Go spar!” he snapped.

I glowered at him and I jerked my head to Baku. He bowed to Yuudai and followed me. I entered the dojo and stripped my haori off. I was left with a sleeveless kosode in a dark yellow. My hakamas were dark green and in the Shinto style. I kicked off my geta and pulled my fang. I threw Baku a finely crafted katana from the wall. He caught it and fell into a battle stance.

“Your arm looks much better!” Baku remarked.

“Hai.” I said circling him.

I struck fast and came at him with a wide swing. He blocked and shoved me back. He moved on me and I switched my fang to my left arm. I needed to build it up. I blocked his swing but the vibrations could be felt in my weakened shoulder. I gritted my teeth and forced myself to arc my blade from above and bring it down. He blocked easily and I dropped low and tried to strike his legs. He was surprised but blocked. I switched back to my right hand and jumped up and knocked him in the jaw with my elbow. A look of annoyance crossed his features but he shoved me back with his katana. I smirked and he narrowed his incredible eyes.

“How did you come by with such amazing eyes Baku?” I asked as I parried.

“My mother. My sire mated into her family.” He answered.

“Fascinating.” I muttered as our blades clashed and the metal clanged.

“Who taught you to spar? Your sire?” I asked.

“Actually General Hideaki did my Lady. He and my sire were very good friends.” He answered.

“You learned well. Were you with us in Manchuria five years ago?” I asked.

“No my Lady. I was here.” He said softly.

“I still feel guilty for sending him to his death.” I said stopping the spar.

“He was a soldier my Lady. You run the risk of early death by fighting in war. You even face the same danger as we soldiers do my Lady.” He said softly.

“I know but I order sometimes those same soldiers to their deaths.” I said looking up.

“Your family has ruled the West for almost two millennium Lady Asuna. Someone has to rule.” He shrugged.

“I used to tell Yuudai to take my place. I am a dual natured Baku. I actually wish to rule and rue it at the same time.” I sighed.

“If you relished it and had no thought to those you ruled then that would make you a tyrant. I can tell you that the common inu and the majority of the nobles adore you. You bleed and have suffered with us and for us.” He said bowing.

“I have done many things I regret Baku. Never put me on any kind of pedestal.” I commented.

“That is why the common inu adores you; you are not perfect and do not claim to be. Your sire seems almost flawless and he is something akin to a Kami but you are our link to the divine.” Baku stated eloquently.

I blushed and turned my head. It gratified me that those of my homeland liked me. I sheathed my Kumosaiga and motioned for him to follow me. I went back to Yuudai's study and saw him sleeping with his head lying on his arms. I nodded to Baku and I barely touched Yuudai and ported us to my chambers. I had brought us directly to our futon and I laid him out gently. He snored softly and I undid his hair. Regret washed through me at what I was doing. I stood and left him to sleep. His wound was taking longer to heal than I would have expected but it was healing.

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My fang was in my hand and I moved through the thick forest. I was checking the widespread areas around Nagasaki. My twin was by my side and he thought that I had ended the pregnancy. I allowed him to think whatever the hell he wanted. I continued to push through and we were scenting for tsuchigumo nests. The idea that Ishin had been injured made me relieved but I remembered his son. Karu had become close to Mizuki during her captivity. I could not reconcile the sweet nature of Karu to that of his father. I had injured the funnel web and it just did not sit well with me. I was accessing Sorami's memories and the tsuchigumo were not purposely cruel to those they chose to care for. They were not obviously loving but Karu was devoted to Ishin. I grabbed Osamu by the hand and teleported us back to the palace. Osamu looked confused and it had dawned on me how to find Ishin. I went to the nursery and Zhou was with the pups.

“Mizuki!” I called.

“Hai haha?” she said coming over.

“Do you Karu to come play with you?” I asked softly.

Naraku would kill me if he knew what I was doing and I casually sequestered our bond so he would think nothing of it. Mizuki nodded and her eyes widened.

“Come my girl! We are hunting spiders.” I smirked.

She took my hand and she looked thrilled. She had formed a childish bond with the young funnel web. Wherever Karu was then that would mean Ishin would be close by. I ported her and me outside of the palace and Osamu had never said a word. He knew me; I would keep my daughter safe.

“I want you to find Karu with your mine and I want you to take us to him. I need you to shield very heavily because the spiders are pathic too.” I said.

“Karu come play?” she asked excited.

“Hai Karu come play.” I said.

She grabbed my hand and she ported us to wherever it was the funnel web prince was. I recognized the area around Sendai. She was quiet and she pointed to a mountain. I took her hand and I changed into my sphere. I traversed the distance and I landed us on the mountain. I shielded our presence and I saw a castle. Airi never really had good control; Ishin had.

“Is this where you were part of the time?” I whispered.

“Hai.” She answered back in a whisper.

I stretched my awareness and I felt the funnel web leader.

“I want you to grab Karu and take him to Shanghai.” I said softly.

“Hai haha!” she said happily.

She ported and I waited for several minutes. Mizuki could keep the young funnel under control. I concentrated on Ishin and appeared right next to him. I was masked so he would not react till he actually saw me. I was in sleeping chambers and the funnel web was laid out on the futon. There were silks surrounding the bed. Forbidden memories of Sorami gripped me and I quashed them. Damn soul was remembering her time with Hisashi. He was handsome; devastatingly so. He looked like Hisashi and therefore like Naraku a little. He was in a deep sleep and I saw where his hand would have been. I quit thinking and I laid a hand on his arm and I ported us out of his castle. I took us to Shanghai and he was awake instantly. I had the Kumosaiga at his throat.

“Hello Ishin. We are going to talk and if you value your life you will listen. I have your son as well.” I said softly.

“You bitch!” he hissed.

“Hai I am. Now your venom has no effect on me so rethink injecting me.” I said coolly.

“So you take me whilst I am injured.” He said angrily.

“Hai.” I replied.

He glared at me and I produced a barrier around him that he could not escape. Mizuki heard me and she pulled Karu into my chambers. She smiled at Ishin and Karu looked frightened.

“You will not be harmed Karu. Mizuki wished for your presence.” I said softly.

“You have my sire.” He said in a scared tone.

“We are not on a battlefield and I will not harm him. Go enjoy yourself for the moment.” I commanded.

He looked nervous and he looked at his sire. Ishin nodded to him and I turned and watched him. I heard Mizuki squeal and she dragged Karu away.

“She will no doubt torture him with her dolls.” I said with a smirk.

“Now that you have me, what do you plan inu bitch!” he snapped.

“I had not thought that far. I was curious to see if I could do it.” I said candidly.

He stared at me in disbelief. I truly had no idea what to do with him. I could kill him and it would give the arachnids a severe blow and make a martyr of him and I refused to do that.

“You have no plan?” he asked in shock.

“No. I cannot kill you because your death would further your cause. I have to think what I will do with you. Karu will not be harmed. He and Mizuki seem to be friends.” I said pacing.

“Stop!” he hissed.

“Stop what?” I asked raising a brow.

“Pacing! It is unnerving.” He snapped.

“Like this?” I asked pacing more.

He glowered at me and I smirked. I went and sat upon a chaise and closed my eyes.

“Bitch!” he snapped.

“Hai?” I murmured.

“How dare you!” he yelled.

“Would you rather a prison cell? I need to rest and think and you are on my futon.” I asked.

“Your futon?” he asked in disbelief.

“Hai! I did not think and just reacted.” I admitted.

I shut my eyes again and I saw myself as Sorami.

“Damn it!” I hissed.

I stood up and stared at him.

“You favor him.” I said bluntly.

“Hisashi? He was my brother.” He sneered.

“I do not understand you. Your father was an evil bastard but you revered him.” I said.

“He was good to me! Hisashi made his own decisions with little regard to his family!” Ishin retorted.

“He thought of your kind as a whole and dismissed you. I can see how that would anger you but Naraku is not your

brother.” I said bluntly.

“Is he not? He acts more like Hisashi than he would care to admit!” he hissed.

“Because he houses the soul of your brother does not make him so. Besides Hisashi was killed by Ryukotsusei; that

should make you pleased.” I said pacing.

I could tell he was getting frazzled by my pacing and I watched him. He glared at me and his anger and hatred was not

personal to me. I happened to be mated to Naraku and I was an enemy by proxy.

“You are now speechless. You do not question your memories of your elder brother? I promise you I remember him quite well. I could tell you every dip and every inch of skin I remember him so well. I felt his feelings because we were bound.” I said then shook my head.

“What is with you inu?” he asked.

It was strange to be the same and then so different. I felt Sorami's memories flood me and I could not seem to distinguish myself or hers.

“You were young still. You were Karu's age when your sire was killed. You and Hisashi shared the same mother did you not? Airi told me how your sire killed your own mother!” I said with my eyes closed.

“Stop!” he said in a dark tone.

“You hate my mate for something his soul did in a previous lifetime. You hated your brother but he is dead!” I hissed.

He said nothing and I walked through my barrier. He seemed surprised and I picked up his wrist.

“I can restore what I took.” I said bluntly.

“Why would you do that?” he asked with narrowed black eyes.

“Because you attack us and it is not me you are angry at. You want a state for your people than fight the right enemy. The West will eventually crush you.” I said.

“Ah well all I did was unite the arachnids; it has taken a life of its own now.” He said sitting back.

“Do you want your hand back?” I asked arching a brow.

“That is a stupid question.” He snapped at me.

I braced myself and I pulled him forward by the back of the neck. I could regenerate his hand with just a little physical joining. I kissed him deeply and shock kept him compliant. I still held his wrist and I pulled his own yoki forth forcefully and he groaned at the invasion. I was forcing his own body to regenerate his hand. This seemed too comfortable and too natural. I realized that Sorami had been at home amongst the tsuchigumo and they were not foreign to her at all. I continued to assault his lips and his mouth. I plundered him with my tongue and the surge of yoki was huge. I pulled away finally and he stared down at his now intact hand. It had been painful and I stepped back.

“How?” he demanded.

“You would have regenerated eventually. I am half uppyr and I can pull the response forth more easily than most. My father regenerated his arm but it is unusual.” I replied.

“Your fang is powerful.” He said staring at my blade at my hip.

“Naraku supplied a fang for it.” I answered.

Ishin kept his response hidden and stared at me. His jaw was clenched and I decided to taunt to him.

“You find me disgusting? Hisashi did not and I promise that the Lady Sorami found him to be quite alluring.” I said thickly.

“Your attempts at discomfiting me will not work.” He said flatly.

“I am not afraid of you Ishin; not this form or your true form. Hisashi's main issue I think is that the tsuchigumo were hated for their true forms. He seemed ashamed of himself when he truly was a gentler soul.” I said.

“You are not afraid of me? You lie.” He said sneering.

“I lie? I am mated to a shape shifter and I have never once been afraid of him. He can take on rather grotesque forms and I have never shied away from him.” I remarked.

“You are a joke.” He snapped.

“I assure you that I am not. It seems when it comes to the tsuchigumo my soul is rather at home. Right now it is screaming.” I said honestly.

He stared at me again and I again came near him. I pulled the Kumosaiga from my hip and threw it away from me through my barrier. I did not want to take the off chance he could wield it. I sat near him and pulled his haori away from his chest and he tried to grab my hands. I jerked my hands away and I pulled the haori away from his mid section. I saw his abdomen was wrapped. I sliced the bandages and saw the wound was still bad. I lowered my mouth to it and began licking it. My saliva was not as potent as a pure blood inu but it would help along with my toxin.

“What are you doing?” he demanded.

“Healing it.” I said.

I started laving my tongue along the wound and he suppressed a shudder I could tell. I looked at him and his eyes watched me. I lifted my lips away from the wound and I looked at him. My eyes were bleeding red and I pulled back my beast.

“This will not hurt but I am not doing it to hurt you.” I said through clenched teeth.

I let my toxin seep to the tips of my claws and I pushed it into the wound. He tensed and tried to pull away from me. I held him firmly with my free hand. I slowly seeped the toxin and I withdrew my claws. I lowered my head and blew on the wound to ease the burn I knew he was feeling. The wound looked angry but less red and pink around the edges. My fang was an extension of my yoki and I was the antidote. I stood up and lowered my barrier.

-Mizuki bring Karu to haha. - I pathed to my daughter.

I heard her childish laughter and minutes later she had pulled Karu by the hand to my chambers. Karu looked at his father and saw that he was alright.

“Karu chichi okay?” Mizuki asked.

“Hai.” I responded.

Ishin did not say anything. Karu went to his father and the look Ishin gave his son caught me off guard. It was full of love. Mizuki took my hand and smiled.

“Leave.” I said softly.

“Bye Karu!” Mizuki said cheerfully.

“Bye Zuki!” Karu said waving.

Ishin stared at me for a moment and held his son and disappeared into his shoki. I sat down with Mizuki and hugged her.

“You did very well!” I said happily.

“Karu scared. He think you hurt his chichi. Zuki said he silly.” She giggled.

“Maybe now Ishin and Karu can be our friends.” I said.

“Karu is our friend.” She insisted.

“I know baby girl.” I said.

“When haha have kitty?” she asked innocently.

“What?” I asked surprised.

“Kitty in your belly. Zuki hears kitty.” She said laying her head against my stomach.

“This is our secret Mizuki. Other inu would hurt our kitty.” I said quietly.

Her eyes widened and she nodded. I knew my daughter and she would protect her unborn sibling. I hoped a simple act of mercy would cause Ishin to at least quell his hatred of Naraku.

“Come Mizuki let us go back to jii-chan's.” I said taking her hand.

I teleported us back to the West and prayed that my little excursion did something.

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Ishin's healer was looking at the wound that had been abscessing almost healed. He looked at the great funnel web and his lord was deep in thought.

“You say the inu did this? Why?” Nobu asked.

“Hai she did. I think she is hoping that I will back off.” Ishin said sitting.

“Well my Lord?” he asked.

“No. Naraku will suffer. He loves the inu and his young ones. I will take them all and watch him suffer as I strip his family from him. She does not think that he is not in part Hisashi. She has no idea how much the cur acts like he did. I will take her and the two and watch him squirm.” Ishin said smiling.

He flexed his clawed hands and was actually grateful she had returned his hand. It had been difficult to do many things with only one hand intact. He watched his son come in and his gaze softened. His mate Akane had died shortly after Karu's birth. She had been beautiful and a deadly warrior. She had died defending her infant son from another tsuchigumo. He still missed her terribly and Karu looked like her.

“What did little Mizuki do with you?” Ishin asked.

“Good Kamis Father she wanted me to slide her down a web. I should never have shown her I could do that.” He muttered.

“She is tiny yet. Her haha has a kind streak it seems.” Ishin remarked.

“She was nice to me after she saw me in the West. She let Mizuki visit me too. That Naraku fellow is horrid.” Karu said shivering.

“He will pay; I promise you. He will pay for what he did as my brother and what he has done since.” Ishin said clenching his jaw.

“What are you going to do?” Karu asked curiously.

“Take the inu and two younglings.” He said bluntly.

Karu's eyes widened and he looked forward to the annoying Mizuki. He nodded and hugged his father's legs.

“Stay from mischief my son. No running off like you did at Shanghai.” He commanded.

“Hai sir.” Karu said blushing.

Ishin moved with purpose. He would make Naraku beg for death.

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I was in Shanghai and the pups were in the study playing at my feet. I was reading and writing; it seemed that is what took up most of my life. Naraku was with Yuudai and Baku in the north of the islands trying to find Ishin. I kept the location secret hoping Ishin had enough sense to move. He was not evil just very bent on a destructive course. I was rocking Nori and Ken'ichi with my foot in their cradle. Zhou ran in and she was panicked.

“Zhou what is wrong?” I asked.

“We are surrounded by the spiders my Lady. I mean the came up suddenly.” She said.

“Get the pups and go.” I commanded.

“Hai.” She said starting to get my offspring together.

“You will not be taking them all I assure you.” Ishin said from my doorway.

“How in the hell!” I hissed.

“You are not the only one who can sneak up Lady Asuna. Bring Mizuki and Nori is it?” he asked.

“Fuck you!” I snapped.

“That can be arranged.” He said smirking.

Mizuki looked at Ishin and two female tsuchigumo came in. One picked up Mizuki and the other picked up Nori. Ken'ichi started wailing and Ishin motioned for him to be taken as well.

“They are innocent! Leave them alone.” I growled fiercely.

“I would not hurt innocents and you are coming with them.” He said.

He moved to my side and pressed his claws into my neck. He injected his venom and I swooned.

“It will not hurt you but injected into the right spot it can be quite effective. Mizuki?” Ishin called.

“Hai?” she said afraid.

“Your haha is coming to visit us for awhile, you will be a good girl and stay with her will you not?” he asked sweetly.

“Hai.” She replied softly.

I was paralyzed for the moment and I had not anticipated Ishin doing this. I had been a fool. Ishin held me close and he pulled us into his shoki. Zhou was left with Hiroto, Kazuo, and Hana. She would have enough sense to either send for Quon or Jin. Ang Chi was in Manchuria with Ichigawa and was supervised by Sheng. I realized Ishin had been watching. I hissed in his mind and he looked down surprised.

“They said you were a powerful telepath. Well the Byakko are not the only ones with dampening magics and I daresay ours are stronger. I was able to keep Mizuki pretty well under control before. She will stay if her beloved haha is with her.” He whispered in my ear.

I growled in his head again and he chuckled.

“You will be able to move in an hour or so. Your lips are devilish inu. You said your soul was at home amongst tsuchigumo.” He said running his hands along my bare shoulders.

A tingle went down my spine and I was furious but his touch was not offensive. He eyed me and ran his fingers down my arms. My eyes narrowed barely at him.

“You should not show your enemies such mercy inu because very bad thoughts have entered my mind on how to torture you.” He said smirking.

I was beginning to think very bad thoughts against him. He laid me on a futon and placed similar gauntlets that I had had in Sapporo on me. I was sapped completely and he smiled. He stood up and left me where I was. Tears stung my eyes and I wondered what the hell the damn funnel had in mind. I laid there until feeling came back into my limbs slowly. I moved my legs then my arms. I had no yoki whatsoever. He was right and the magics on these were stronger. I went in search of my pups and I found them. Karu was sitting with Mizuki and she was rocking the twins. She had tiny manacles on her as well. They would drain her enough that she would feel to nervous using her yoki. Karu looked apologetic and I noticed the boys were safe.

“Why?” I demanded of him.

“I am unsure.” Karu answered.

I stormed from the makeshift nursery and I went in search of Ishin. I may not have my yoki but I would do the same as I had in Sapporo. Ishin would not have brought us back to Sendai and I had no idea where I was. My senses were dampened but not gone. I scented several times and followed the tsuchigumo lord's scent. I followed it and I found him in what appeared his private chambers. I walked straight in and I went to hit him. He caught my wrist and that smirk was on his face.

“Tsuchigumo prefer strong and powerful onna. The more dangerous and deadly they are; the more desired. You are just turning me on inu.” He said chuckling.

“You are a sneaky bastard!” I hissed.

“Hai. You gave me a most wonderful idea when you healed that nasty wound.” He said in a low tone.

“I was trying to be decent you bug eyed freak!” I snapped.

He chuckled again and pulled me. I was hissing and snarling the whole time. He pulled me to the futon and he pulled my arms above my head. I could not move them and I had been secured to the futon with his silk.

“You intend to rape me?” I demanded.

“Kamis no. You ran that tongue of yours on my flesh and I just thought I would return the favor.” He said leaning beside me.

“What?” I asked confused.

“Hai.” He said smirking again.

He lifted my kosode and exposed my stomach. I stared at him in disbelief. He lowered his ebony head and ran his tongue lightly along my abdomen. I felt flutters of pleasure and I fought it. He dipped his tongue into my belly button and I did cry out. His black eyes caught mine and his held amusement. I squirmed and he ran his fingertips along my ribs as he lifted the kosode higher. The sensation felt glorious and ticklish at the same time. He did not lift it any higher but again laved his tongue along my skin. I felt his lips place soft kisses along my flesh and I squirmed. He lifted his head again and kissed me. His tongue delved into my mouth and it was as deep as mine had been. I was getting very hot and he slowly withdrew. He reached up and I felt his silk dissolving. I jerked my hands down and rolled away from him.

“Payback is…what do they say Lady Asuna? Oh yes, a bitch!” he snickered.

He stood and I glared at him.

“You enjoyed my touch. That is intriguing.” He said turning and watching me.

“Bastard!” I hissed.

I stood up and tried to keep as much dignity as I could as I walked out of his room. I had thought him insane at first. He was rather calm and collected. He and Naraku were more alike then I cared to admit. I had to get away from him and escape. It was clear to me that he intended to hurt Naraku through his family's absence.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

“What do you mean?” Chen asked.

“I mean the tsuchigumo leader waltzed into the palace and took Lady Asuna and three of the pups.” Zhou said nervously.

She had gone to the Byakko because she had seen the looks the young tiger gave her Lady; the damn feline was hunting at the moment. She looked around nervously and Chen noticed her apprehension.

“You will not be harmed nu zi.” Chen said in irritation.

“I have to get back to the West and you can teleport. Lord Naraku must know!” she said shifting from foot to foot.

Chen nodded to Ling who came forward.

“You will find your eldest brother and tell him that I have gone to the West to aid them.” He said.

“Yes Ba.” Ling said.

Zhou had Hana on her hip and the oldest twins at her feet. Hiroto stared at the Hunan Lord in fear. The male inu were striking but the silver haired inu nu zi caught the attention of all in the throne room. She was alert and bore the markings of the old Manchu Lord and her mother. She looked around and her green eyes caught Chen's silver ones. He was startled at her beauty and she was only about one year old. She pointed at Chen.

“Mow?” she mumbled.

Chen started laughing and he took the tiny inu from her nursemaid's arms. Zhou looked peevish but Hana was cocking her head to the side and she pulled on his silver hair.

“Mow?” she said again softly.

“Yes meow. Big meow.” He said chuckling.

Quon walked in hurriedly and saw the inu Zhou. His father was holding what had to be Asuna's youngest daughter. Hana looked at Quon and again said mow. Quon stared at the tiny nu zi. She favored her mother and put her arms out for him to hold her.

“Take her! She is a delightful little thing.” Chen said.

Quon took the almost pure inu into his arms and she laid her head on his chest. He was shocked at how sweet she was. He looked at Zhou and his father.

“The Lady Asuna has been kidnapped. It seems that the tsuchigumo lord took her. I figured we could exorcise the debt we owe her and help retrieve her.” Chen said.

“Yes.” Quon said softly.

Zhou looked ready to jump out of her skin and Hana snuggled closer to the Byakko prince. If Lord Sheng was here he would be furious. He saw Hana as his daughter now. Chen cleared his throat and he produced his shoki mist and took them all to the West. Zhou grabbed Hana away from Quon and she started wailing. She walked quickly and the two Byakko followed. They went to the study. The door was slid open and Augusta saw Zhou, the pups, and two Byakko. Her brown eyes widened in shock and she stepped aside. Zhou ran in and bowed before Lord Sesshomaru.

“My Lord! Lady Asuna had been taken by the tsuchigumo Lord himself. He also took the younger twins and Mizuki.” She said.

Quon stared openly at the Western Lord and realized how much Asuna looked like her sire. Sesshomaru stared at the tigers and looked at Zhou.

“They owed Lady Asuna and they could get here faster.” She said softly.

“You did well Zhou. Please take the pups to the nursery. Sesshomaru I am going.” Augusta said standing.

Sesshomaru glared at his mate and then at the two Byakko males.

“This Sesshomaru can and will go after his heir.” He snapped at Augusta.

“You need to stay here because Yuudai and Baku are not here. The standing army needs a leader and guess what my Love? Your it.” Augusta said sweetly.

Augusta motioned for the two Byakko to follow her and Sesshomaru growled.

“Augusta!” he hissed.

“Hai?” she asked.

“Go.” He nearly snarled.

She bowed and she left the room. She slipped next door and grabbed a katana from her study.

“Hello Prince Quon Hu. Lord Chen Hu.” Augusta said slipping the blade into her obi.

“Your mate did not seem pleased.” Chen observed.

“He does not like me going on dangerous excursions. He is a dog after all and the alpha.” She shrugged.

“Where do we start?” Quon asked.

“Naraku.” She said grabbing both Byakko's arms.

She ported all three of them to the Northern Castle and looked around. She closed her eyes and expanded her awareness.

-Naraku!- she cried.

He appeared with Yuudai and a very nauseated looking Baku. Yuudai looked over at Quon and he suppressed a growl. Naraku stared at Augusta and looked annoyed.

“Ishin has taken Asuna, Mizuki, and the twins.” Augusta said immediately.

“Excuse me?” Naraku hissed.

“Ken'ichi? He took my son.” Yuudai said in disbelief.

“I think Yuudai it was because he is Nori's twin.” Augusta said softly.

“What are the tigers doing here?” Naraku said in barely contained fury.

“I owe Lady Asuna a debt and I will repay it by helping to find her. Where were her mates when she was taken?” Quon said clenching his jaw.

“You know I am thinking I need a new tiger coat, wanna play boy?” Yuudai snarled.

“You are nothing inu. I would best you with one swipe of my paw.” Quon said growling.

“Enough!” Chen snapped.

“Look I do not think Ishin will hurt her or the pups. I think he just wants to get at you Naraku,” Augusta said.

“So this is your fault?” Quon asked sarcasticlly.

“Listen here tiger boy; I could wipe you here to the next continent. Shut your damn mouth. You know nothing!” Naraku said stepping forward.

“Naraku I suggest we split up. You and I are telepathic so we can try and reach Asuna that way.” Augusta said reasonably.

“Alright. I will contact you tomorrow at this time.” Naraku said glaring at the Byakko.

Quon kept his cool but he was close to throwing his shoki at the dark youki. Yuudai just did not stare at him but seemed to be bristling. The tiger prince allowed his shoki to swirl around his claws and he threw it at Yuudai. The inu general grunted and pulled out pieces of ice from his shoulder.

“Come you two! Yuudai back down.” Augusta commanded.

“Hai my Lady.” He said growling.

“Down boy!” Augusta snapped.

He nodded to Augusta and Yuudai grabbed Naraku and dragged him off. Baku followed after his general and the dark hanyou. Augusta waited until the others left.

“Are you insane? Naraku is a very formidable opponent and Yuudai is Asuna's lawful mate. You are a friend with benefits.” Augusta said sarcasticlly.

Quon paced in anger and stared at his father. Augusta's eyes widened when she heard the Byakkos' thoughts.

“You are insane! You marked her and got her pregnant?” she snapped.

“It was not done purposely but she carries my cub and I will be damned if you or anyone interferes!” Quon hissed.

“You condone this Lord Chen? You are a damn fool!” Augusta snapped.

“I support my son. Your daughter participated as well Lady Augusta!” he said smirking.

“Your rich! You think that she can hide a Byakko pregnancy?” she said in a temper.

“She and I have been planning carefully. She is my mate in the eyes of the Byakko, Amur, and Bengals. I do not need the approval of any damn inu!” Quon said in a nasty tone.

“She is inu!” Augusta said furiously.

“Half! She is half inu!” Quon hissed.

“Oh I see that makes it alright. She is not completely inu; she is not dirty to a damn tiger!” Augusta said clenching her teeth.

“Asuna and I know what we are doing. She has already seen someone named Tamiko.” Quon said glaring.

Augusta visibly relaxed and decided she was going to tear her daughter a new arse hole. She stared at the two tigers and realized that this species of taiyouki were just as arrogant as any inu. Chen was about as arrogant as they came. He knew he was gorgeous and she pushed him backwards with her will. He was thrown back forcefully and landed on his backside. Chen stood slightly annoyed and stared at the kiang shi female.

“You will never get a chance to do that again nu zi.” He said wiping the dust off of his blue pein fu and ku.

“Come on pussy boys.” She said sarcasticlly.

Chen and Quon stared at each other and they both realized where Lady Asuna had gotten her mouth. Chen gritted his teeth and wished he could make her shut her mouth.

“How would you make me Chen? Kamis you are an open book. You know I saw your thoughts in Shanghai as well; I was flat on my back.” She said snidely.

Chen actually turned red and Quon looked away. Lady Augusta was more out spoken then her daughter.

“You might as well talk because I am hearing it all.” She said annoyed.

“You cannot stay out of our heads?” Quon asked.

“When you broadcast as loud as you do then no I cannot. To answer your question my sire was a prince in Russia. I was raised in the Czar's court. I am royalty as is my daughter. I am haughty and I have every right to be proud.” She said staring at Chen.

“You should like to know Byakko.” She said smirking at Chen.

He grew angrier and Quon realized that something big was brewing.

“Ba please this way.” Quon stated.

“The tsuchigumo had many nests in the East and Naraku will search there. Asuna had mentioned Korea and I think we shall go there.” She said to the tigers' backs.

Chen glared at the Western Lady and wanted to rip her up at the moment. If Asuna was half as mouthy as her mother as he had no idea how Quon put up with her.

“I imagine they do not speak much.” She said walking slowly towards them.

She touched their arms and ported them to Korea. Chen hissed and grabbed her roughly. Quon tried to hold his father back and the Hunan Lord smashed Augusta against a tree.

“You really are asking to be slit open and your guts spilled nu zi.” He growled loudly.

“Ba!” Quon yelled.

“You would not sink one claw in you over grown neko.” Augusta snapped.

Quon gave up and walked away to let them fight it out. He could attest to the intense arguing. He hoped his father had enough sense to stop it.

“Neko? You are an arrogant tart who needs to be brought to heal!” he snarled.

“You are a male whore who does not know when to quit! Well this is one woman you shall not have!” Augusta said sweetly.

“I am thinking that slitting you open and cutting your tongue out would be better right about now.” He hissed.

“Right that is what you are thinking. How old are you Chen Hu? Five or six centuries?” she asked.

“Six and your mate needs to make you submit!” he hissed.

“You think Sesshomaru should make me submit?” she laughed.

“Yes.” He said darkly.

Chen face contorted all of the sudden and he dropped her. He gasped in breath and moaned.

“I can do things Chen that would blow your mind and you really think Sesshomaru is going to make me submit?” she asked in a deep voice.

She picked up his hand and pricked a finger with a fang. She lapped up the little bit blood.

“Is your cock going to explode yet hmmm?” she asked sweetly.

“Stop!” he managed.

“You do not like this?” she asked him huskily.

He was panting and Augusta came closer to him.

“Is it not exquisite? I feel your need and you to come.” She breathed into his ear.

Chen managed to look at her under her mental assault and his eyes were burning. She smiled and the tightness in his groin was unbearable. She moved till she was pressed closer and she lowered her fangs to his neck. She bit in lightly and she could taste the lust in his blood. She released her hold on him. He backed away from her and stared at her.

“You really are a magnificent male but I am more than spoken for. Sorry for the blue balls you are going to have but do not threaten me again.” She cooed softly.

She straightened herself and called for Quon. She began walking away and Quon came out from deeper in the forest he came to his father's side and noticed that his sire's eyes were crimson.

“Ba? Are you okay?” Quon asked stunned.

“Give me a minute.” He hissed softly.

Chen rose slowly and would have given anything to be at his palace and engaging one of his mates at the moment. The Western Lady had more telekinetic and telepathic power than he had ever seen. He stared at his son and shook his head.

“She is pure evil.” He muttered

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Ishin had been more than honorable. I wanted him to do something wretched so I could hate him. He was a doting father and come to find out that young Karu had come after me of his own accord. I was hiding in the rafters of the funnel's sleeping chambers and he walked in. He was undressing and I turned me head. I kept telling myself that he had kidnapped me and he was keeping me from my family. I was better after that thought and he was down to his hakamas. He seemed to sense something but I was hidden by shadows. His hair was loose at the moment and it came down to his middle back. I jumped down and he was flattened under me. He was growling and I straddled his hips. He was face first against the floor and his head was turned to growl.

“I want to be released.” I snapped.

“You think sitting on me is going to convince me?” he snapped back.

“Ishin, you brother is dead. I mean really dead. The dragon put a katana through his heart and he bled out.” I said shuddering at the memory.

“How do you remember it inu? You have shared his memories is why. You wonder why I know my brother is there? He acts just like Hisashi.” Ishin snarled.

“Your sire was evil Ishin; he murdered your mother and other tsuchigumo!” I cried.

“Hisashi divided the kingdom when he killed my father. My mother was a demented whore. Hai he was ruthless and did many things but what right did a son have to kill his own sire?” Ishin hissed in fury.

He rolled forcefully and threw me off. He was on me and pinned my hands with his silk. He smirked down at me and could not move my hands at all. He got up and left me.

“Seems a little unfair since you can make silk. Almost cowardly.” I said.

“Maybe.” He said leaning against a wall.

I growled and he chuckled. He started to walk away and I hissed at him.

“You are going to leave me here?” I yelled.

“You are the one who jumped on me inu. I suppose I could let you up if you promised to be a good onna.” He said amused.

“Like hell I will!” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Well then you shall stay there. Silk can last for days.” He said walking out of his room.

“Ishin!” I yelled louder.

I saw him poke his head in the doorway. He raised a black brow and stared at me.

“Hai inu?” he asked me.

“Please let me up. I will not jump on you anymore.” I mumbled.

He put his hand to the silk covering one hand and dissolved it with his shoki. He repeated it the other and I grabbed him. He was surprised and I had the claw of my thumb pressed into his windpipe. He stared and scowled.

“I did not say I would not grab you.” I said.

“You are talented in jumping males onna. I tell you that you are a treat. If you were a tsuchigumo female I would have to thoroughly fuck you.” He said with a very licentious grin.

“If I were a tsuchigumo? Well you are a bigot. That is rich.” I said narrowing his eyes.

“Not really but I would so hate to have my brother's bitch!” he sneered.

I slashed his face with my claws and he surged his strength and my claw did cut into his throat a bit. He had me on my back and a little blood dripped onto me.

“I told you inu that you are turning me on. Your little displays are quite hot as they say. Still I think I am old enough to control my ardor.” He said in a taunting tone.

I brought my knee up into his backside hard to unseat him and he fell on me. I grunted and he pushed himself up. I sunk my claws into his thighs and he shouted in pain. I bit into his shoulder and he cried out. He wrapped a hand around my throat and squeezed. I released his shoulder and gasped for breath. I took my claws out of his thighs and he released my throat. I sucked in air and I saw his eyes were blazing quite crimson.

“Get out of here.” He demanded.

“Make me!” I hissed back.

“You have no idea what games you play inu, I said leave.” He demanded in a fiercer tone.

I raised my eyebrow and I kicked him in the stomach. I grabbed his inky black hair and jerked his head.

“I said make me.” I snarled.

He picked me up and pushed me against a wall in his chambers.

“You truly have no idea that tsuchigumo females are rather aggressive do you little inu? I should take you right now for your behavior is telling my beast that is what you wish. I am straining as it is. Now leave.” He said in a strange voice.

“I do not give a fig if my behavior is screaming to screw me every which way! I want to leave!” I barked.

He held my face and his ruby colored eyes were boring holes into me.

“I will not say it again inu, get out.” He said in rasping tone.

I shoved him from me and started to walk away. He grabbed me by my shoulders and we sank to our knees.

“You said leave.” I hissed.

“Tell me. Did Hisashi take Sorami in our way or hers.” He demanded.

“Excuse me?” I snapped.

“Was there couplings soft like an inu's would be or did he make her fight for him.” He demanded.

“Why should you care?” I asked.

“Because if Sorami was this brutal then I see why he mated an inu.” He said bluntly.

“You wish you knew. Go screw yourself.” I hissed.

“Looks as though I shall have to.” He retorted.

“Hn.” I muttered.

“Tell me how Naraku came about.” He demanded.

“Why?” I asked.

“Because I wish to know.” He said flatly.

“He was a hanyou at one time. The ningen that was him was named Onigumo.” I said looking away.

“Ironic.” Ishin said.

“Hai. Onigumo wanted the Shikon no Tama. He ended up burned by his bandit leader and he was taken care of by the miko name Kikoyo.” I said venomously.

“Go on.” He commanded.

“Onigumo fell for the miko whore who happened to be in love with my uncle. He was unable to move and he invited a host of demons to take over his body. The lead demon was a tsuchigumo. He coveted the jewel and Kikoyo. So he set the miko and my uncle against each other. She died and he was sealed to a tree for fifty years. The miko burned the jewel with her body. Naraku waited for the jewel to show back up and it did in my aunt. Thus started the Shikon Debacle as we call it. He was very much a hanyou and his ningen side heavily influenced his youki side. He housed two souls until I sent the bandit's to hell.” I said smirking at the memory.

“The lead youki was Hisashi.” He stated bluntly.

“How do you know?” I asked.

“You are reincarnated as was he. His soul was waiting He felt cheated so he waited in a lower level tsuchigumo.” He said pulling away.

“Why can you not forgive him?” I asked.

“He left me! After the kingdom split, he left me! He killed our father and took Airi with him.” He sneered.

“Naraku is very much his own individual. Hisashi may have taken the opportunity to become apart of who Naraku is, that is all it is.” I said trying to convince him.

“I cannot and will not forgive him. You have no idea what it is to fear completely and not expect to live as such a young age.” He said in old pain.

“So he messed up! We are youki not Kamis. We make mistakes just the same as any living creature. Kamis know I have made a bunch. You mean to tell me that you are perfect?” I asked.

“No, I am not perfect but I would not have done what he has.” He said with narrowed eyes.

“But you do it to me. You do it to my pups.” I said quietly.

“I will not stop until one of us dead.” Ishin said speaking of my mate.

“You would leave your son without his father?” I asked softly.

“Stop this! Stop making me think differently! All these years all I have had is my hate!” he hissed.

“You have your son! I assume you had a mate who you must have loved! Let it go! Allow yourself to heal.” I pleaded.

He moved forward and pulled me to him. I looked confused as he wrapped his arms around me and just held me tightly. He grabbed my wrists and released the manacles.

“Go.” He said.

“I do not understand.” I said totally confused.

“I will not fight you personally again but the tsuchigumo and scorpions will not stop.” He said bluntly.

“Why are you letting me go?” I asked raising a brow.

“Because I have been and always will be better than Hisashi. You are something different and he does not deserve you but there it is. Leave and take your pups.” He said pulling away.

I gathered myself and went in search of Mizuki and the twins. I found them and I surged my yoki and broke the manacles. I looked around and held the boys. Mizuki held onto my legs and I ported us to the West. I dropped Mizuki, Nori, and Ken'ichi in the nursery. I saw Zhou with Hana and the oldest twins.

“Haha!” Hiroto and Kazuo screamed.

“I am fine. I need to see jii-chan.” I said kissing their heads.

I hugged and kissed Hana. I nodded to Zhou and she looked relieved. I mouthed thank you and I went to my father's study. He looked up with utter shock.

“He let me go. He only rules a faction of the tsuchigumo and the rest are ruled by other leaders.” I said sitting.

“Why did he let you go?” he asked in shock.

“He hates Naraku not me.” I answered.

“Well your mother along with the Byakko are looking for you.” He said dryly.

“The Byakko? What for?” I asked.

“Lord Chen said paying their debt back.” My sire answered.

“I have to find them.” I said sighing.

I did not wait for an answer and I ported away. I concentrated on Naraku and his mind bombarded mine. I appeared next to him and he was delighted. Yuudai looked relieved and they both pulled me into fierce hugs at the same time.

“I am fine!” I snapped.

“I am going to kill him!” Naraku hissed.

“You are going to leave him alone.” I snapped.

“Excuse me? He kidnaps my pups and you and you tell me to leave him alone? Are you insane?” he asked me.

“Nori, Mizuki, and Ken'ichi are fine. I am fine and in fact he let us go.” I said.

“Good for him.” Naraku stated nastily.

“Look I have a better understanding of the tsuchigumo issue. Ishin is just one of many leaders.” I said walking with him.

“I am not discussing anything but his death. You can have sympathy for the overgrown bug but I do not!” Naraku hissed.

Yuudai stared at us both and I saw Baku staying back. I walked back and grabbed Yuudai and Baku; I ported the three of us back to the West. I was not going to argue the issue and I knew he was gonna want to fight. Baku bowed and walked away. Yuudai bent his head and claimed my mouth; I sighed into the kiss. He held my face for a moment and then he went to see his son. I felt Naraku tickling my senses but I refused to acknowledge him. I concentrated on my mother and ported to her. A wave of dizziness overwhelmed me but I kept my balance. She turned and she immediately hugged me. I saw Quon and Chen and my Byakko looked relieved. Naraku was getting on my nerves so I cut him off.

“Naraku is an in a peevish mood. Thank you for helping Zhou Lord Chen.” I said softly.

“You are my daughter in law.” He said smugly.

He walked past my mother and glared at her. I looked between them and knew something had taken place.

“Well Asuna I need to get back. You will talk when you get back.” She said bowing.

She ported away and I stared at the two tiger males. Quon kept his distance and I knew his tendency for privacy.

“Do you mind explaining why you and my mother are ready to kill each other?” I asked raising a brow.

“She is obnoxious.” Chen said glowering.

“She repeated your thoughts back to you. I can teach you to shield.” I offered.

“Yes I think I will take you up on that. She has an amazing ability at torturing males.” Chen also remarked.

I stared at Quon and he nodded. My mouth dropped at my mother's brazen move; I should not have been surprised because I knew how she reacted to my own sire's arrogance.

“My grandsire tortured her before she ever left Russia. She refused to mate another kiang shi; why I do not know. Stasio did terrible things to many of his family members including his daughter. It was because of Stasio that Kyung-Sam came to Japan and he killed Sheng.” I said.

“What happened to her sire?” Chen asked intrigued.

“I killed him.” I said walking past Chen and took Quon's hand.

“You killed him?” he asked surprised.

“Melted his heart and a distant relation took of his head.” I said with a shrug.

“You say it so flippantly.” Chen remarked.

“Have you ever been fed off by a kiang shi? I mean truly fed off and not messed with?” I asked darkly.

“No.” he replied.

“My grandsire and Vlad both were the kind to drain a youki unto death or play with them and make them wish for it. I have been fed from and my kiang shi half brought to bear. Be glad my mother just played with you.” I said tensely.

“You decimated the king of the kiang shi did you not?” Chen asked.

“Ba! Please do not bring it up.” Quon said softly.

Old anger took hold of me and I sat down on a rock.

“Vlad took my dignity and pride Lord Chen. I pride myself on a certain amount of control and my kiang shi half is anything but. I hunt and eat meat like any youki but to drink blood for sustenance? His power over my mind was absolute and over my body even more so.” I admitted.

“I am sorry. I spoke out of turn. Your mother is an enigma to me.” He said with gritted teeth.

“She is to most. She loves my sire passionately though.” I said standing.

Quon took my hand and pulled me away to a more private location.

“I imagine you have been kissed silly already. I was concerned.” He said.

“I know. We must do a better job of keeping your sire away from my mother. Tamiko indicated it was not a good thing that they interact much.” I said.

“Tell me how to control my sire inu. She brought him to his knees.” He said shaking his head.

“She does not need blood to dip into someone's mind.” I explained.

“My father is anxious to get home and probably my poor mother.” He said shaking his head.

“How many mates does he have?” I asked intrigued.

“Ten. My mother and Cheung's mother he mated for love and the others are for political treaties. They are nice enough but he only has four cubs.” Quon said walking with me.

“You, Cheung, Ling, and…?” I asked.

“Her name was Yin.” He said looking away.

“You are not close?” I asked.

“She died young.” He said holding my hand tighter.

“I am so sorry.” I said softly.

“She was my mother's second cub. Ba could not have been more delighted but Yin was strong willed. She was killed by a bear youki.” Quon said quietly.

“Quon, I am sorry for your loss.” I said holding his face.

“It happened awhile ago.” He said kissing my hand.

We just stared at each other for a few minutes. He sighed and kissed my palm. He pulled me back towards his father who looked irritated.

“I am ready to go back now Quon. Are you staying or coming?” Chen asked bluntly.

“I will be there soon Ba.” He said bowing.

“Gratified you are well Lady Asuna.” He said and then he produced his shoki.

He disappeared and Quon turned to me and gave me one of his mind blowing kisses. I could not believe where we started to where we were. He slowly withdrew his lips from mine and nipped at my throat and ear.

“I love you. Do you hear me?” he whispered hoarsely.

“Hai I hear you.” I whispered back.

“I will take you to Shanghai.” He said pulling me to him.

He produced his own shoki mist and we disappeared into it. He had brought me to my chambers and I could tell he wanted to make love at the moment. I did not think and I just reacted; I pulled him to the futon and we fell in a tangle of limbs.

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I made it back to the West and decided to seek out my mother. She was in her study and she saw me and glared daggers. I crossed my arms and glared right back.

“You make your life more difficult than it needs to be! Kamis and to be related to that arrogant brat of a male?” she fumed.

“Mother did you have to do what you did to him?” I asked.

“Hai I did!” she fumed.

“Well they can absorb the psi type yoki.” I informed her.

“I have had his blood. I made sure I could bring the bastard to his knees!” she hissed.

“Chen is powerful like my sire! You need not toy with him; he may decide to target you personally.” I said in caution.

“Really? Is that what you think he will do?” she stood up.

“Mother you are allowing him to get on your nerves.” I said.

“I am finishing this right now!” she hissed.

“Mother! Where are you going?” I said and watched as she ported away.

It was not like my mother to be hot headed. I was exhausted from all the porting but I pulled all the yoki I had and followed her to Hunan.

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Augusta walked straight into the Byakko throne room and leaned against the door way. Chen Hu was dealing with some other types of tigers and he looked up at her. He scowled and stood up. He was angry and she was smirking in malice.

“Oi Lord Chen. My daughter cautions me about you but I am certain I can handle one little pussy!” she stated in sarcasm.

“You are in my home Lady Augusta and your daughter is a wise nu zi.” He said furiously.

“Well Lord Chen shall your own know what an arrogant self inflated egotist you are?” she hissed.

The tigers all around were astonished at a female speaking to their lord in such a manner. Chen's tale was thrashing about in his anger.

“Leave bitch before I lose my temper. This point I would risk a war to pummel you!” he hissed back.

“Oh you cannot handle me yourself and you would involve others to fight in your stead? You are such a big bad ass over grown pussy boy.” She snapped.

Chen struck her forcefully and she landed on her rear. She jumped up and channeled her yoki through her hand and threw him back. He growled and moved with speed; he grabbed her roughly and pinned her to a pillar. Quon and Asuna ran in and watched as their parents were intent upon spilling blood. Augusta lifted her hand and Chen felt as if his air was being cut off. He fought her hold on him and it faltered some. The Western Lady was shocked and managed to grab his thrashing tail. Quon's eyes widened and he watched as Augusta painfully bent the appendage. Chen roared in pain and slashed her with his claws. He released his shoki and the coldness burned the wounds.

“Mother!” I yelled.

“Stay out of this Asuna!” she yelled back.

Augusta stared at the Byakko lord and he glared back at her. He had slashed her arm straight through her kimono and she had nearly broken his tail. She jumped up and walked out of his throne room.

“Stay out of this Quon!” Chen yelled at his son.

He followed after the kiang shi nu zi. They were in a covered breeze way and she rounded on him. She knocked him in the jaw and he gripped her shoulder in a powerful grip. She grabbed his silver hair and painfully pulled it.

“Leave and never show your face in my home again you evil bitch!” he hissed in her face.

“I go where I please.” She snapped.

“Go back to your dog so he can lick your ass!” Chen taunted.

She brought her knee up into his groin so fast he did not see it. He grimaced in pain and moved away from her.

“Go back to your numerous cunts you call mates.” She retorted.

She started to walk past him and he wrapped his injured tail around her ankle. He tripped her and she landed painfully. He straddled her hips and wished to the Gods he could strangle her. He saw her eyes widen at his thoughts and he proceeded to imagine her screaming in agony.

“Well it seems as though you did get me flat on my back, how does you prick feel?” she asked sweetly.

“Feels like it has been kicked. Why not just walk away before you really get hurt and I have to fight a war with your mutt because I justifiably hurt you?” he asked annoyed.

“Because you are a creep who demeans onna!” she screamed.

“I have never taken a nu zi against her will! Normally my private thoughts are not on display and you would never have known. You get angry at those private thoughts when I never made a move to even touch you!” he hissed.

Augusta stared up at him and he was right. She knew better than to pry so heavily into another's mind. She looked away and refused to meet his gaze.

“Go back to your palace broken puppy who pats you on your bitchy head!” he said standing up.

She slowly stood up and grabbed his neck and pulled him into a devastating kiss. The Byakko lord was shocked and Augusta invaded his mouth. He growled softly and her soft pouty lips moved against his in unbelievable passion. She pulled away suddenly and her breathing was hard.

“I will never touch you again.” She said backing away.

“What in the Gods name just happened?” he demanded.

“My inner nature. I will not betray Sesshomaru.” She said shaking her head.

“I do not believe I was asking you to.” He said flatly.

“Goodbye Byakko.” She said ashamed of herself.

“Why did you come here?” he demanded.

“For the first time in over a century I have been tempted. It is not a comfortable thing for me.” She admitted.

“So you attack me. Very good Lady Augusta; what a way to charm a male.” He said.

“You are an ass who needs a good whipping!” she snarled.

“Not your job.” He said dusting himself off.

Augusta walked up behind him and his breath was sucked in. She was applying her exacting torture again.

“I am going to finish you this time. My kind takes blood in the midst of orgasmic bliss Lord Chen. The blood is sweeter.” She purred in his ear.

Every nerve was alive and she was not even touching him. He closed his silver eyes as he tried to fight the overwhelming tightening in his groin. He moaned softly as she whispered in his ear.

“You know the sensation can be made to feel as though I am sucking you. Should you like that?”

“Gods please stop.” He almost begged.

“No. This time I will make you my whore.” She said fiercely in his ear.

Chen was moaning softly and she ran her hands up his arms.

“I am going to taste you in but a moment. You should be just about ready to release hmm?” she asked him softly.

“I said stop.” Chen moaned.

“It will be worth it I promise. Chen you are beautiful.” She said softly nipping his ear.

She licked his neck and sank her fangs in deeply. She moaned against his skin and he grabbed her shoulders. He shuddered violently as she actually drank from him. She pulled away and released her mental hold on him. Her eyes were red and her lips were claret colored. She stood there and the scent of his release was getting to her.

“Nothing should have that kind of power.” He said in a hoarse voice.

“You should not be so arrogant.” She replied.

“Did you enjoy it kiang shi?” he asked in a testy tone.

“Hai.” She stated thickly.

“Does it sooth your conscious that you made me climax without me buried in you?” he asked in a sour tone.

“Hai. Did you not enjoy it?” she asked fighting her instincts.

“Who is the arrogant one? I had thoughts you acted on yours.” He snapped.

“Hai I did. Good day.” She said.

“You think this is done Lady Augusta? You think I will allow you to use me and humiliate me in front of my own kind?” he hissed.

“I think you do not have a choice.” She said bluntly.

“Watch your back nu zi!” he snapped.

She backed just a little and reached into his ku. She pulled back her fingers and licked them suggestively.

“You are divine, I suppose I shall sleep with one eye open!” she said smirking.

She ported away and Chen did the same. He appeared in his private chambers and shuddered. He shed his clothes and sought his bath. He intended to beat this particular foe and her daughter was a fount of information.

“Tell my eldest son to come to me.” He demanded a servant.

“Yes my Lord.” The manservant cried.

He washed himself quickly and rubbed his sore tail. She had nearly broken it and he growled. He grabbed a dressing gown and waited on Quon. His son came in and bowed.

“Ba are you okay?” Quon asked him.

“I will be better when I hurt her most painfully! Where is your mate?” he demanded.

“She followed after her mother. Ba her mate is the most powerful inu and you are begging for war.” Quon said softly.

“Oh this is between me and the blood drinking sow!” he growled.

“What exactly did she do?” he asked.

“Do not worry on it. I want to see the Lady Asuna as soon as you do.” He hissed.

“Yes Ba!” he said bowing.

Chen flexed his claws and he intended to learn all he could on the damnable kiang shi.

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I followed my mother through the palace and she was irritated.

-Mother! - I hissed in her mind.

-Leave me alone Asuna! I am in a blood lust and I need your father! - She hissed back.

I stopped following and felt sorry for my father. I went to find my own immediate family and try to let my mother do her thing.

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Augusta had taken a nice long bath and tried to calm herself but her eyes were red. She wrapped a yukata around her body and scented out her mate. He was in the dojo with Yuudai and Osamu. She growled softly and went straight to him. She came into the dojo and Osamu stared at his mother and Yuudai was concerned.

“I am sorry my son and Yuudai but I need to speak with Sesshomaru.” She said.

“Hai.” Both males said and left quickly.

“Mate?” Sesshomaru asked concerned.

“I need your blood please!” she begged him.

“What is wrong?” he demanded.

She moved close to him and started licking along his bare chest. She became almost feverish and lightly bit and nipped his flesh. She busied her hands with undoing her yukata.

“Augusta!” he demanded.

“I did not feed enough.” She groaned against his skin.

“That was foolish.” He said staring at her.

She growled fiercely and he turned his head to the side exposing his neck.

“No. I need all of you.” She hissed.

“Why did you not feed sooner? You know not to starve yourself!” he admonished her.

“Oh shut up Sesshomaru!” she snapped her fangs at him.

“Augusta.” He growled a warning.

She untied his hakamas and he was shocked. They fell and she slid down his lean and powerful body. She spread his legs just so and she sank her fangs into his femoral artery. His clawed hands came to rest on her ebony head and he growled in pleasure. She was growling as well and he knew this was going to be an intense rut. She rarely starved herself and when she did; he had to bring her back from a brink. She ported them to their chambers suddenly and again he was shocked. She pulled her lips away from his inner thigh and crawled back up his body. Her hand was around his cock and she was stroking him firmly and wantonly.

“Augusta!” he cried softly.

She did not answer him and lowered her lips to his and ravished his mouth. She was kissing him brutally and his normally sweet mate was crazed at the moment. His mind was trying to stay clear and ascertain what had happened that had caused this.

“Not enough blood.” She moaned into his ear.

“Why would you not feed enough?” he asked softly then moaned again.

“My prey got away.” She said grazing her mating mark.

He closed his amber eyes and she bit into the mark and mounted him at the same time. Such intense and powerful shocks of lust and pleasure shot to his very core. She was asserting her claim on his body and it was elemental. She leaned her body back and he watched breathless as she ground herself against him. His own beast came crashing into his mind and he sat up and she was under him. She wrapped her legs tightly around his narrow hips and her thrust into her hard and mercilessly. She was moaning and crying out for him and he lowered his jaws to her throat and sank his fangs deeply and she came suddenly and with intensity. He tried to fight off his own release but it was ripped from him with every squeeze and flutter around his cock. They collapsed in a heap and she was sucking in much needed air. Her eyes had returned to brown and the Western Lord looked at his mate of over a century and brushed her hair from her heart shaped face.

“Are you better now?” he asked softly.

“Hai much better. I am right where I am supposed to be.” She said closing her eyes.

“Care to explain?” he inquired.

“Nothing to explain. Take me again please and make me scream your name over and over.” She demanded.

He glanced at her surprised and he knew something had shaken her to her core. She was a lustful creature but this was not her. She growled low in her throat and pulled him down by his silver hair.

“Please my Lord. My lover. My friend and my master.” She breathed against his lips.

“Indeed?” he chuckled.

“Hai! Bring me to heal.” She purred.

“How can I refuse such a request?” he said in a deeper baritone than normal.

He slowly and passionately started kissing her anew and she shut her eyes and shut out the Byakko lord.

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They had attacked again and it was an invasion of sorts. They hit Niigata and I was slashing and fighting my way through different forms of tsuchigumo. I was ruthless and stabbed and beheaded without remorse. Naraku was with me this time and he too was slaying the arachnids. He wanted Ishin dead and Ishin wished the same for him. I began to wonder how much of Hisashi was in Naraku. I grew my acid whip and screamed for my men to move. I spun in a circle as my sire had taught me and I took out many tsuchigumo with my yoki. I stopped and reabsorbed the energy. I saw Yuudai smile at me in appreciation and I nodded. Baku also caught my eye and smirked. I moved quickly and released my toxin as blades. It ripped through many of the eight legged creeps. I saw Naraku move in a more hurried motion and he had caught sight of Ishin. I refused for them to kill each other and I forced myself to jump up and over the crush of warriors. I watched in horror as Ishin actually changed to his true form. He was huge and very black. His legs were hairy and had two huge fangs. He was a fearsome sight and Naraku smirked cruelly. I recognized the look and he knew his own power was even more superior to the taiyouki in front of him. My mate was toying with Ishin and he was being cruel. I saw his bone like spears erupt and I threw myself in their path. I was not immune to Naraku's miasma and the pain was awful. His eyes flashed a ruby color and he hissed.

“Stupid onna!” he yelled.

“You will not deprive his son of a father!” I yelled.

Ishin transformed back to his humanoid form and I knew he was angry too.

“Get out of the way inu! This is between me and him!” Ishin yelled.

“NO! You both are fathers and need to grow up. Ishin you are no match for him! I am no match for him.” I admitted.

I slowly withdrew his bone spears and he furiously came up and sank his claws into me and withdrew his miasma. He wanted to kill and I would continue to thwart him in this.

“Move away inu this is my fight! I told you that you are not my enemy.” Ishin hissed.

Ishin had his blade and went to go after Naraku and I again threw myself in the way. The blade pierced me and I felt the venomous yoki surge through me. Ishin quickly pulled it back and pulled me to him. I had under estimated his raw power and I coughed up blood. Naraku yelled and I stared at him.

“Let her go!” Naraku snarled.

“I have to take her fool! She will die.” Ishin screamed.

“Defend Niigata!” I cried to Naraku.

“Asuna!” Naraku yelled.

I looked down at the wound in my middle and I sobbed.

Ishin pulled me back and we disappeared into his miasma. He was cursing and he laid me on a futon.

“Why would you do something so foolish? Why will you not stop interfering?” he demanded.

“You are a taiyouki.” I said dumbly.

“Hai I am. Why would I not be able to channel my yoki? Damnit onna!” he hissed.

He saw my tears and he wiped them away.

“This will hurt inu. I am sorry.” He said as he sank his claws into the wound.

I realized he could control his venom the same as Naraku could his. He was withdrawing the shoki and my breathing started to even out.

“I am pregnant. Could you have a healer see if I still am?” I asked quietly.

“Kamis you are insane!” he cursed at me.

He stood up and left. I assumed he was doing as I requested; several minutes passed and he appeared with another tsuchigumo.

“Inu this is Nobu. He will check you.” he said stiffly.

I nodded and Ishin turned away. The healer helped me to remove my hakamas and my cheeks were burning. He checked and nodded that yes I was still pregnant. He covered me with a coverlet and bowed to his lord and left. Tears stung my eyes and I closed them in relief.

“What possessed you Lady Asuna?” he demanded.

“I will not allow you to kill him or vice versa.” I said sitting up.

“You have no right to interfere!” he hissed to me.

“Besides were those your tsuchigumo?” I demanded.

“Hai! I wanted to draw Naraku out and it worked did it not?” he snapped.

“Your people were dying in droves and for what?” I said furiously.

I stood up and wrapped the coverlet around my waist. He started to walk away from me and I snarled at him. He turned and I saw that old anger and betrayal in his face.

“Ishin!” I said softly.

“You need to stop interfering inu. I am in danger of caring way too much about you and it fuels my hatred of him more.” He warned.

“What? You are crazed right now! You sacrifice your own in an attempt to hurt someone who can barely remember doing it!” I cried to him.

I moved closer to him and I grabbed his haori and shook him roughly. He obsidian eyes were moist but his face held malice. He had nearly a millennium of anger and hatred.

“I am surprised you are not afraid of me.” He said bluntly changing the subject.

“Why because you are a giant hairy arachnid? I am a giant silver canine.” I said shrugging.

“Hai but you have four less legs than I do.” He said wickedly.

“Giant fangs as well. You are frightening but I am not afraid of you. Are you hoping I will be intimidated?” I demanded.

“I am hoping you will leave well enough alone and leave me to my own fights.” He said looking at me hard.

“You wish to kill my mate and I have a problem with that.” I said raising a brow.

“He does not deserve you! He did not deserve you as Sorami and he does not deserve you now!” he said fiercely.

“You did not know her or me.” I said.

“I know enough inu. I know she was devastating beautiful; you have her beauty but a true warrior's soul. I know you would kill for the traitor. You defied your own family for him even though he betrayed your sire!” he said in a clipped voice.

“Ishin what I have done I have done because I love him. Do you understand that?” I said clenching my teeth.

The air between us was thick and tense.

“I could destroy him in other ways.” He said softly.

“Let it go!” I begged.

“How?” he asked.

“I do not know Ishin but a millennium is too long to hate. I know the pain; I felt Sorami's anger and hatred of my grandsire. I had to face him and tell him what I felt. I do not suggest talking to Naraku but figure out how to release your pain.” I said searching out his eyes.

“You speak wisely but it is not that easy.” He said staring my in the eyes.

“Hai it is.” I insisted.

“So what happened when you confronted the great Taisho?” he asked in a mocking tone.

“I let go.” I whispered.

“You need to go.” He said harshly.

“Ishin!” I said grabbing his jaw.

“GO!” he hissed.

He wrapped his hands around mine intending to jerk them away and I tried to get him to look at me. He was avoiding my gaze and I kept trying to catch his eyes. He groaned and captured my lips with his. I groaned as well and I let it happen. It was full of emotion and need. My brain was trying to tell me to stop but Ishin did it for us.

“Go back to him. You are not mine to covet.” He said the pressed his lips to my forehead.

“Ishin.” I said softly.

“I cannot stop Asuna.” He said pulling away.

“I will have to stop you.” I said fighting back tears.

“Then do what you have to do as I will. Goodbye.” He said walking away.

I sighed in frustration and I would have to save Ishin and Naraku from themselves.