InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Confusion ( Chapter 49 )

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

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

Confusion

I stood in the shrine at He Gang and paid my respects to Tekeshi. I sensed Sheng and turned. He smiled gently at me and I went into his arms. He held me tightly and we had given each other space for awhile. He lifted my chin and stared into my eyes.

“I have missed you and you seem to stay very busy.” He said kissing my forehead.

“Hai I guess I do. You and Ang Chi seem to be getting along.” I remarked.

“Hai. Katashi was a fool. He is a good boy.” He acknowledged.

“He is.” I said softly.

“I feel Naraku's ire constantly. You and he are not speaking right now?” he asked.

“No. He is angry at me for stepping in between a fight between Ishin and himself.” I said in annoyance.

“Care to explain?” he asked of me.

“Ishin has valid points for feeling the way he does about Hisashi but Naraku is no longer he. I have tried convincing Ishin of this and he will not give up his ancient anger.” I said gritting my teeth.

“Perhaps if you let Naraku handle this and butt out.” He stated.

“You do not know Naraku the way I do, he will kill Ishin without a thought. Ishin is a good father.” I said kicking a rock.

“I have come to know him rather well Koi and hai he will kill him. He has threatened everything Naraku holds dear and he is stewing an awful hatred of the tsuchigumo.” Sheng remarked.

“You side with Naraku?” I asked in disbelief.

“Unfortunately hai. This Ishin may be a good father but it seems you have gone soft.” He said leveling me a stare.

“Soft? Sheng it seems you have gotten harder! I love Naraku but he will not kill Ishin while I breathe.” I said growling.

“You run the risk of driving Naraku away from you.” Sheng admitted.

“Why does he not say this himself and it seems go through you? It seems you two have gotten quite cozy!” I hissed.

“You really want to have this fight with him?” Sheng asked.

“I do it for his own good!” I snapped.

I jerked away from Sheng and walked away in a severe temper. I teleported away and went straight to the source of my agitation. Naraku was in his castle and I glowered at him. He stood up and came to stand straight in front of me.

“You have lost your Kamis damn mind!” he snapped.

“You have lost any sense of what is right!” I snapped right back.

“You defend the very creature that would see me dead!” he growled.

“I have told him I will stop him. I will not allow you two to kill each other. He is so lost in grief and betrayal he cannot see the truth and you are being hateful! He never hurt Mizuki or Nori or me for that matter!” I hissed.

“You do not see what he is doing? Ishin seeks to take you from me and you are jumping at it!” he yelled.

“I am not! I am trying to save you from you!” I yelled back.

“How many times do you need to be told not to make decisions for me Asuna? I do not need saving! If you find my decisions to defend what is mine so distasteful then let us be done with this farce of a mating!” he snarled.

“You do not mean that.” I said bluntly.

“I will end us in order to do what I need to do. You would cripple me when I need to protect those you have birthed to me.” He snapped.

“Go right ahead and throw a tantrum when you need to grow up! It is not always about the obvious Naraku.” I said in a dead calm.

“I am sick of this! I am sick of defending myself from the one person who should stand behind my decisions! Before you I made my own decisions and did what I had to. It seems I have to lose you in order to save you.” He stated in anger.

“You are dissolving our mating?” I asked starting to shake.

“I suppose I am. I will work out an arrangement with the pups.” He said stiffly.

Anguish tore through me and I blinked at him. I turned on my heel and teleported away. I fought back the tears that threatened to fall. My relationship with him was always volatile and now was no exception. I still intended to stop him and Ishin from killing each other regardless if Naraku and I were together or not. Somehow the pain was doable. I kept my head up and walked into my chambers in the West.

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I was sitting with Ang Chi at a council meeting in Shenyang. Sheng was also present and it seemed quite clear that he was siding with Naraku. I refused to speak with him and I listened to the Manchu nobles.

“Lord Ang Chi and Lady Asuna you must understand that the Ming are again encroaching on our borders and this must be dealt with.” A noble named Yuan said.

“What kind of threat would you say that the Chinese are Ichigawa?” I asked.

“We either invade them or they will invade us Lady Asuna.” He said.

Ang Chi looked at me and I knew his thoughts were go to war.

“We need to wait till they make a move. We cannot be seen as the aggressors here gentlemen. Wait till they make a move beyond Manchurian borders.” I stated firmly.

I heard grumbling but they would obey. I stood signaling the end of the meeting. Ang Chi walked with me and Sheng followed.

“If you side with him then you make the same decision as him.” I said flatly.

“I am sorry Koi but he is right!” Sheng stated.

Ang Chi looked confused and I stared at Sheng. I lifted my head and I narrowed my eyes.

“You are abandoning me as well?” I asked stiffly.

“You are going too far Asuna. I cannot stand by and watch you do this thing!” he said flatly.

“Fine. You make my life much easier Sheng. Ang Chi could not have a better advisor than you. I am done with you and Naraku!” I hissed.

I grabbed my adopted son and he followed behind me.

“Mother stop!” he asked me.

I continued to walk and my son pulled on my arm, I turned and my eyes were red.

“Mother what is wrong?” he pleaded.

“You do not need to worry. Do you wish to remain or come to Shanghai?” I asked.

“I need to stay here a few days Ichigawa says.” He stated quietly.

“Then do as you need. Have you been practicing your teleporting?” I asked.

“I have. I am a little better.” He mumbled.

“Good.” I said kissing his forehead.

“Go to Ichigawa and do listen to Sheng on state affairs. He is wise in such things.” I said.

“I wish you were happy.” He said.

“Sometimes the right thing does not always yield happy consequences.” I replied softly.

“I wish I were older.” He said looking away.

“Why?” I asked amused.

“Then I could make those that are stupid suffer for it.” He said shaking his head.

“I am grown son. You must not concern yourself with my happiness. I will do that on my own.” I said.

He nodded and walked away. I teleported to the West and sobs tore through me. I felt Yuudai's hands on my shoulders and I turned around and he held me.

“Are you leaving me too?” I asked bitterly.

“Only if death were to claim me. Chuusin you are doing what you think is right. To hell if they agree or not.” He said.

“Then why does it feel as though I am wrong?” I asked him.

“Because letting go can be difficult.” He said softly.

“I need not cry. I know I am doing the right thing and Ishin is not responsible for all the attacks. He is not evil just very bitter.” I said straightening.

“See if you can save them both!” he said softly.

“Hai. I am going to find Ishin again and take him if necessary to Tamiko.” I said.

“Whatever is necessary.” He replied.

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I was near Sendai and I was climbing up the mountain to come upon the castle with stealth. I had a feeling he was here. I jumped from rock to rock quickly. The castle came into view and I masked my scent and aura. I saw a few tsuchigumo in their true forms. I jumped onto the funnel's balcony and peered in. He was asleep and a memory of Sorami's assaulted me. I gritted my teeth and moved into his room. I lightly touched his silk curtains and admired them. His hair was down and my breath caught at his masculine beauty. I had cut off both Sheng and Naraku and I had heaviness in my heart but I was determined to see my mission through. I put a hand on his and was fixing to teleport when his fingers wrapped around mine.

“Damn!” I cursed.

“What are you doing here?” he demanded.

“Making you listen.” I answered.

“You are persistent inu.” He said softly.

“You have no idea.” I stated.

I perused his form and his chest was bare and his lower half was covered in a silk coverlet. I met his eyes and he seemed slightly intrigued by my wandering eyes.

“Do you sleep naked?” I asked curiously.

“What does it matter?” he asked.

“Well if I am taking you then it could be problematic.” I said raising a brow.

“Who says I am going anywhere?” he asked raising his own brow.

“I am.” I said haughtily.

“Inu go home.” He said rolling over.

“Not a good idea to turn your back on an inu.” I hissed.

“Giant spider.” He said sarcasticlly.

I decided to see if he did indeed sleep with nothing on. I slipped my hand underneath the coverlet and his thigh was smooth. He sucked in his breath and rolled back to stare at me.

“Well I suppose I can rustle up some clothing for you.” I said flatly.

“Inu leave.” He demanded.

“Alright.” I said.

I held onto him and ported us to Shanghai. I sat up from my futon and he looked absolutely furious.

“I swear I will put up a barrier! I suggest you deal with it for now while I procure you some clothing.” I stated.

“You overstep your bounds Asuna!” he snapped.

“No Ishin I do not. I am following my instincts and I have given up too much to not see this through.” I said bluntly.

“What do you mean onna?” he demanded.

“It matters not.” I said erecting a barrier.

“Damnit!” he hissed.

“Sorry.” I said walking to my other room of my chambers.

I summoned my other maid servant Shusin. I sent her into the city to get me ku and pein-fu for my guest. I went back to my actual bed room and opened my armoire. I reached up and pulled the pins from my hair and it fell down my back. I felt Ishin's eyes on me and I turned to look at him.

“You know for someone who is normally rather straight forward you are being underhanded.” He snapped.

“If you are not around to direct your attacks then you will not be vulnerable to attack yourself. I suggest you send a message to Sendai and evacuate your people because I will tell its location soon.” I said shedding my haori.

I wore a sleeveless kosode and hakamas and he was agitated.

“Why are you doing this? I did not think you capable of this.” He said in a dangerous tone.

“Capable of what? Trying to save your stubborn ass? Naraku and I are no more because I defend you!” I hissed.

“What?” he said stunned.

“Hai. So you see I have nothing else to lose pretty much. You have a castle in Korea somewhere and you will go. I will not allow you to destroy Naraku anymore than he you.” I said in a low tone.

“You are foolish inu.” He replied.

I moved through my barrier and he took the opportunity to grab me.

“You cannot teleport out of my barrier and what are you going to do paralyze me?” I asked him.

He glared at me and he snarled softly. He actually made a move to slap me and I caught his hand.

“Both by the way.” I said softly.

“What?” he snapped.

“It has been both ways; soft and hard.” I said standing up.

“Why would you do any of this Asuna?” he asked quietly.

“Because Karu deserves his chichi as much as Mizuki and Nori deserve theirs. I may not be Naraku's anymore but you will not take their chichi from them.” I said heatedly.

“You walked away from your mating for this?” he asked in disbelief.

“He dissolved the union because I flatly told him the same thing. I have been high handed in the past with him and he sees me doing the same again. I have also been accused of going soft. Apparently I no longer have an edge because I see shades of gray. You Ishin are one of those shades.” I said bluntly.

“I do not need saving inu. I have my plans and you can either get out of my way or else.” He said in a low growl.

“Stupid male.” I said under my breath.

“You do not belong to him?” he asked suddenly.

“Not anymore but I will defend him.” I said stiffly.

“I do not understand you inu.” He said confused.

“I am sorry and I hope you will call for Karu. I have no wish to separate you from your son. You are hell bent at making him an orphan as you were.” I said tightening my lips.

Anger invaded his features and he stared me down.

“I know not how his mother died but it is obvious you at least cared for her.” I said bluntly.

I knew Ishin normally wore his hair tied back and I proceeded to grab a hand full of his ebony locks. It was as soft as any silk he could produce. I managed to get it into a top knot and I walked through my barrier and got leather lacing. I walked back through and tied it off. He was surprised and looked at me thoughtfully.

“I loved her very much. She defied me much the same way you do.” He remarked.

“Well I am no tsuchigumo female. Was she a funnel web as well?” I asked him.

“Hai. Her name was Akane.” Ishin stated looking away from me.

“Did you bond with her?” I asked him.

“Hai.” He said barely audible.

“I am sorry for your loss. Trust me when I say I know that pain.” I said standing.

He grabbed my arm and stared at me with his obsidian colored eyes. A slight shiver went down my spine and he cocked his head to the side.

“You should not allow yourself to care what an enemy feels.” He said bluntly.

“We are enemies? I had hoped we had moved beyond that.” I stated.

“Hai you hinder my plans.” He said stubbornly.

“Shall I tell you what I do to my enemies?” I asked in a change of tone.

“What?” he demanded.

“I end up under them and crying out in passion. You still wish to be my enemy?” I asked bluntly.

“You what?” he asked.

“Hai. I am not very concerned about rules and restraints. I have a good idea of what coupling with a big hairy tsuchigumo is like.” I said winking at him.

I walked out of my barrier and left to see if Shusin had come back. She had just made it back and she had procured black silk and it would be striking against Ishin's skin. I thanked her and went to him and handed him the pein-fu and ku.

“I am sorry it is Chinese fashion and not what you are used to be but I figure you to be an adaptable creature.” I said with a smirk.

I left him staring at me dumbfounded and I went back to my armoire and pulled out a fresh haori of pale gray and black hakamas. I proceeded to change right there.

“What are you doing?” he asked.

“Changing my clothing are you putting yours on?” I said chuckling.

“Hn.” He muttered.

“My hair covers my nakedness Ishin. Now if I were to turn around then you would have reason to object.” I giggled.

“You are pushing me again inu.” He threatened.

“Really?” I asked.

I did turn around and slowly dressed in front of him. He was clad in his ku and I smirked at him.

“I suppose you feel that you bested me in this?” he asked darkly.

“Not really. It is jus a bit of flesh.” I said shrugging.

“What happens when you lower you barrier inu?” he asked smugly.

“I have been thinking on that and I will have to do something about it within my power.” I said moving forward.

I had my hakamas on and my haori was still open. I moved through my barrier and grabbed his wrist. I bit in gently and he tried to jerk his hand away but I took in his blood. I let him go and proceeded to finish tying my haori stays.

“Why did you take my blood?” he demanded.

“It is my way of assuring that you will be somewhat compliant.” I said bluntly.

“Your uppyr yoki?” he hissed.

“More or less. Difference between me and Sorami is that I am not full inu. Consider this my silk.” I said smirking.

His eyes widened and I could scent desire coming from him. I moved to him and splayed my hands across his pale chest.

“It is intriguing that nature gave your kind such fearsome true forms and incredibly beautiful humanoid forms. I suppose no one would expect such a sight from one such as you.” I said in a sultry tone.

“Do not try and seduce me inu; it will not work.” He said.

“I have never followed the norms as they were and now that Naraku has freed me; I feel less inclined to follow them.” I said leaning in and nipping his chest.

“Asuna!” he hissed under his breath.

He had dropped the honorific and I found that it pleased me to no end. I ran my tongue around his male nipple and bit in. His gasped and I licked at the wounds.

I shoved him back and I grinned at him. He was trying to not react but he was aroused.

“Shall I continue?” I asked sweetly.

“I think you are hurt and reacting.” He said narrowing his eyes.

“Hai I am hurt. I am more hurt than I will say.” I said straddling his hips.

“Then do not react. I will not be used to make yourself feel better.” He snapped.

“Fair enough.” I said sliding off of him.

“What are your intentions inu?” he inquired.

“To keep you alive and away from Naraku. You will not use him to commit suicide.” I stated standing up.

“You think that is what I am doing?” he said angrily.

“Hai I do. I think you are an intelligent and very bitter. I think you are refusing to see reality because you were so hurt. I cannot believe that you would even contemplate leaving your precious son.” I said looking at him.

“You really think I could not defeat Naraku?” he asked furiously.

“I am bound to him Ishin. I know his yoki and I know his temperament. He can be ruthless and vicious. You know all he did for the Shikon.” I said bluntly.

“You think I have not studied him? You honestly think I would attempt to take him if I did not think I had a chance? I never intended to get to know you.” He said flatly.

“You will not kill him. He will not get the chance to kill you. I have seen enough death!” I hissed.

I walked away from him without lowering my barrier.

“You intend to keep me prisoner?” he asked.

“For a little while. I am retrieving your son.” I said.

I teleported as I walked and was back at the castle in Sendai. I walked straight into Karu's room and found him nestled in a web.

“Karu!” I said softly.

“Huh?” the young funnel web asked looking up.

“Lady Asuna?” he asked sitting up.

“Come now. Your father is in Shanghai.” I said.

“Why?” he asked slipping down from his web.

“Because.” I said taking his hand.

I teleported us back to Shanghai and I released his hand. I lowered the barrier around Ishin and Karu ran to his father.

“I can track you now Ishin. If you leave that is your choice but I will be able to find you. You make a move towards Naraku and I will stop you.” I said sitting on a chaise.

“You have nerve Asuna.” He said growling.

“Hai I have nerve and I have a pair. I am doing the right thing and I am paying for it I promise you. If you wish me any ill then know I am suffering for this. I suggest you get the tsuchigumo out of Sendai because it will fall.” I said bluntly.

“You intend to order an attack?” he seethed.

“The order was given not by me but it had already been given. You have time to get most out.” I said closing my eyes.

“Who?” he demanded.

“You have made enemies Ishin. Get your people out.” I said sighing.

Ishin disappeared with Karu and I knew he would heed my words. I had lied and I had ordered Sendai attacked. It would force Ishin off the islands I hoped. I stood and ported to Changsha. I stood outside the Byakko palace and sat on a boulder over looking the river and lush landscape. This was a perfect area for tigers and it was no wonder they flourished. I did not go looking for Quon and I figured if he was around then he would find me. It was beautiful here and I closed my eyes. I was tired and in mourning. I knew why I was fighting so hard for Ishin. I was trying to do an honorable thing to make up for the messes I had made. I laid down on the large rock and felt the cool stone. I was not sleeping when I felt Byakko auras close in on me. I sat up and it was a group of tigresses. They openly stared at me and me at them. They all had silver hair save one. She was an Amur tiger and had soft flowing reddish hair.

“Who are you?” silver asked.

“It matters not. Excuse me.” I said standing.

“You are the foreign inu that was here recently.” The Amur said.

“Hai.” I said bowing,

“You are mated to Prince Quon.” She said with undisguised anger.

“I suppose I am. Get out of my way.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“No. I am Lanfen and I was his intended.” She said hissing at me.

“Move out of my way or I will take your pretty tail and choke you with it.” I growled.

“Really? You are a mangy, filthy dog!” she said slapping me and dragging her claws across my face.

I backhanded her and she was thrown from me. I lifted my claws up and they glowed with my toxin.

“I challenge you! You have no right to him!” she screamed.

“You wish to fight me? You are a pathetic tigress!” I said disdainfully.

I saw several male tigers coming including Lord Chen and Quon. Lanfen jumped up and extended her claws and she did not actually touch me but my haori was torn and my breasts gouged. I realized she must also be an elemental youki and I grabbed her hair and pulled her head back. I also took the opportunity to step mercilessly on her tail.

“Lady Asuna!” Chen yelled.

“She attacked me Lord Chen!” I snapped.

“Let her go!” Chen commanded.

I shoved the tigress from me and I turned. Chen and Quon both saw my haori and Quon was furious. I realized the other males were Cheung and Ling.

“Princess Lanfen did you attack her?” Chen asked.

“I did my gracious lord.” She said bowing low.

I rolled my eyes and my eyes were mere slits. My claws were itching to tear her hide and I felt blood ooze from the wounds. She looked up at me in obvious hatred.

“Why would you attack her Lanfen?” Chen asked.

“I was to be betrothed to Quon Hu. She is not a tiger and therefore should have no rights to mate the Prince of Hunan.” Lanfen stated with her face down.

“She challenged me Lord Chen.” I said wanting to spit at the heifer.

“Lanfen?” Chen asked.

“I did. I want the ancient right to win the prince's favor.” She said demurely.

Chen looked up at me and I knew this was an old tradition and I would need to face her or my standing would not hold.

“Name the place and time Siberian whore!' I said in Russian.

She looked at me and hatred and rage contorted her pretty face. Quon grabbed my arm and I looked at him. My eyes were red and he pulled me away.

“What did you say to her?” he demanded.

“I told her to name the time and place and I called her a whore.” I said furious.

“You carry my cub and she is proposing a fight to the death.” He hissed.

“Fine.” I said glaring the Amur princess.

“Asuna!” he shook me.

“She challenged me Quon and by the Kamis I will face her!” I snapped.

“Did you not hear me? You already carry my cub! Your legitimacy as my mate is not in dispute.” He said.

“Lord Chen when do I face the whore?” I snarled loudly.

“Lady Asuna I do not think that is a good idea.” Chen stated.

I stalked over to Lanfen and dragged her up. Her yellow eyes were filled with intense hatred and I threw her back. The silver tigresses were shocked. Chen held my shoulders and I snarled.

“Asuna stop! She is a princess the same as you. Quon is right and you carry his heir.” Chen said softly.

“Let me go Lord Chen!” I said furiously.

“I have no idea how you could please him. You look about as warm and passionate as a rock!” she snapped in Russian.

“I assure you that he is quite pleased in my bed. You should ask him.” I replied in kind.

“I have had him dog! He is too much for such a common beast!” she hissed again in Russian.

The males had no idea what we were saying and I grew my acid whip. Quon had never seen it and his eyes were wide.

“Now! You face me now!” I yelled.

“ Fine!” she replied.

“Lord Chen and Prince Quon I face her now!” I said looking at them.

“NO!” Chen snarled.

I withdrew my whip and allowed myself to be dragged away by Quon and Cheung. I was snarling rather loudly and Quon shook me roughly. He pulled me into the palace and he took me to his chambers. Cheung stayed back and Quon looked at me as though I had lost my mind.

“You rutted her at one time I hear. Do you intend to mate her?” I asked arching a brow.

“I was promised to her at one time and yes we were involved in a physical relationship. I have not had much contact with her in a decade.” He said quietly.

“Well I guess I shall tell you that Naraku and Sheng are no longer mated to me at all. I am sure those rumors would have reached Hunan soon enough.” I said with a false smile.

“Why?” he asked intrigued.

“I defend Ishin.” I said bluntly.

“What?” he asked shocked.

“Hai I tell you this so you have the opportunity to dissolve this union as well.” I said standing.

“You are trying to provoke me?” he asked.

“Probably. I will tell you that I will not back down from a fight with a slut of a tigress!” I snapped.

“You are vacillating so fast that I cannot keep up. You are free from the Panyu inu and from the dark youki because you are defending your enemy?” he asked.

“Hai. I have good reason Quon. You have come to know me well enough that I try to be honorable and this is the honorable thing to do.” I said firmly.

“Yes I know this about you. Look you make your decisions for your own lands and those relationships but do not fight battles that could harm you and our cub!” he snapped.

“She is your former lover and she was promised to you and she calls me out. Did you love her?” I asked.

“I think that maybe I did at one time.” He said quite candidly.

“Maybe you should mate her then. There would be no prejudice against the Amur.” I said reasonably.

“Do not be an ass!” he snapped.

“I am not. If you loved her at one time then maybe you could again.” I said looking down.

“Do not question my feelings for you or try to convince me to care for another!” he said grabbing me.

“If this is the case then I fight her.” I said stubbornly.

“Asuna do not!” he said fiercely.

“Hai I do! I will fight her for the right to enjoy your prowess.” I said seductively.

“What are you doing?” he asked as I undid his ku.

“I want your scent all over me. I want her to scent our combined releases!” I said huskily.

He groaned as I started to massage the area above his tail. He lowered his mouth to mine and he pushed me back. I grinned against his lips and I intended to wipe the floor with the Amur bitch!

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I made sure Quon's scent was still all over me and I slipped from the bed that Quon and I had just shared. I had dressed and went to the Byakko throne room. My Byakko had thought I was teasing about the challenge but he would be shocked. I went by a group of tigresses that Lanfen was apart of and I smiled sweetly at her. I knew she could scent him and I narrowed my eyes at her. When I wanted I could be as catty as any feline. She stood up and Chen noticed the close quarters of us. I had the feeling that the Byakko lord was going to get sick of dealing with me.

“You damn whore!” Lanfen shouted in Russian.

“Well it seems his time with you could not have been that memorable because after seeing you he wished to be with me.” I said very sweetly.

She grabbed a knife from a low table and threw it at me. I caught it by the blade and threw it right back at her. She had to dodge and it landed in the wall.

“Lady Asuna! Princess Lanfen!” Chen snapped rather loudly.

“Hai Lord Chen?” I said bowing.

“My gracious lord!” she said bowing.

“Slut.” I hissed in Russian.

“Bitch!” she replied.

The whole of the Byakko court knew something very bad was brewing. I saw a very attractive Amur male move forward and he raised an eyebrow at us.

“Who is this inu?” he asked in a melodious voice.

“Lord Aleksei this is Lady Asuna. She is my heir's chosen.” Lord Chen said.

“Your mother is Russian they say.” He remarked.

“Hai. Her name is Augusta Orlovich.” I replied.

The Amur lord looked at me and I could tell he recognized the name.

“The Orlovich lost the head of their family in recent years.” He replied.

“Hai he did loose his head and his heart. I killed him myself.” I said coldly.

“Why would you do such a thing Lady Asuna?” Lord Aleksei asked.

“Because he was an evil bastard. I also killed Vlad Tepest.” I said.

“I will speak with you alone. Lanfen! Prince Quon has made his decision and you will respect it!” Aleksei said with a growl.

“Yes gracious father!” she said bowing low.

I masked my scent completely and walked beside the Amur known as Aleksei. He seemed highly intrigued and looked me over.

“What is a tiger doing with such a European name?” I asked curiously.

“We are from Siberia Lady Asuna. You know part of it is in Europe and the other is in Asia. My chief mate hales from the Asian half and I from the European part.” He answered.

“What do you wish to speak with me about?” I asked.

“You seem quite embroiled in events in Europe.” He remarked.

“My twin brother mated a Scottish kitsune recently and I am trying to limit my time spent out of Asia I assure you!” I said flatly.

“You truly killed the uppyr king? Why would you do that?” he asked interested.

“Lord Aleksei, I have no wish to be rude but I will not talk about it. I have been in Wallachia, Novgorod, and Moscow and I have seen enough of the wretched places.” I said bluntly.

“I heard stories of his debauchery. It is good that he is gone.” He remarked.

“I am glad you think so.” I replied.

“My daughter does not like you and I must say I am surprised that Prince Quon would mate an inu.” He said looking me over.

“Whatever Prince Quon and I do is no ones business but our own.” I said uncomfortably.

“I suppose but I would be very interested in meeting your mother.” He remarked.

“You probably will not; seeing as Lord Chen Hu and she do not see eye to eye.” I said smirking.

“My old friend never said a word!” he chuckled.

“She is fiery Lord Aleksei.” I said smiling.

“She would be very Russian then.” He said smirking bigger.

“Hai. Lord Chen looks a little nervous.” I said looking at the Byakko lord.

“He probably thinks you will throw a knife at myself.” He said laughing.

“I missed you know.” I said bluntly.

“You are a warrior and no palace bitch.” He nodded.

“Hai.” I said.

“Come let us calm your father in law.” He said.

We walked back over to Chen and he eyed me. I smiled at him and he looked relieved.

“Chen you did not say you knew her Lady mother.” Aleksei said.

“I rather not mention Lady Augusta.” Chen said scowling.

“Come my friend is she as beautiful as she is famed to be?” he asked.

“She is a hateful harpy that I would love to split from sternum to toes.” He growled.

I looked at Lord Chen surprised and he looked back at me. My mother must have done something awful to him. I mentally groaned and knew Chen and I had to talk.

“Well Chen it seems as you should speak with the harpy's daughter.” Aleksei chuckled and walked away.

“Lord Chen?” I asked softly.

“This way inu!” he snapped.

I followed him to his den and he shut the door. I watched him sit and he looked very uncomfortable.

“I should like to kill your mother but I think I should torture her instead.” He said angrily.

“Lord Chen I have no idea what happened.” I said softly.

“Your mother used her all of her kiang shi yoki on me and fed from me.” He said glowering.

I closed my eyes and mentally groaned. I looked at Chen and he waited for me to speak.

“She is never reckless Lord Chen. She is normally very calm and very collected. She indicated that you had some rather lewd thoughts about her.” I said delicately.

“They were thoughts only Lady Asuna. She is attractive and I am male. I have a right to my own thoughts!” he growled.

“My mother was used for her body it seems several times my Lord. She was taken by Naraku during the Shikon debacle and Magatushi used her very ill. It does not justify her abuse of you but I hope it explains her state of mind.” I said very softly.

“Naraku? The one you are unofficially mated to?” he asked shocked.

“I am no longer.” I said looking away.

“Interesting indeed. Your mother owes me an apology and I will accept it here in front of the Byakko.” He stated flatly.

“I know my mother and she will not do it.” I said.

“If and when I see her then do not be surprised if I hurt her very badly.” He threatened.

“I will see if a compromise can be reached.” I said bowing.

“That would be interesting.” He remarked.

I bowed again and left his den. I walked through the throne room and Lanfen glared at me. I gave her a lewd gesture and teleported to the West.

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I stood in her study and she listened very carefully to what I was saying. She would nod and she stood up.

“He is right and I owe him an apology. I violated him in a way I swore I would never do.” She said softly.

“Why him?” I asked.

“Why are you so taken with his son?” she asked softly.

“I see.” I mumbled.

“I am going to dress in state. I will be in Hunan within the hour.” She said sighing.

I nodded and proceeded to go to my own chambers. Yuudai and Baku would have taken Sendai by now and they would have found it nearly abandoned. I went to the hot spring and bathed thoroughly. I went to my chambers and pulled on a kimono. It was a jade green and shimmered with gold and silver threads. I put my hair up loosely and I turned and saw my mother in the doorway. She wore a royal purple kimono with lilies on the back. Her hair was pulled up in a French style that Fillip had done for me the one time. She wore amethyst earrings in her lobes. She had a beauty mark below her left eye and she looked beautiful.

“Let me face my shame. I am sorry for my behavior.” She said looking straight at me.

“Mother! I am only half what you are and it is hard for me! I cannot imagine the instincts to quash every day!” I said taking her hand.

“My sweet girl! Thank you for not hating me.” She said hugging me.

She teleported us to Hunan and I took her to the throne room. It seemed the tigers were always milling about in there. Chen was laughing and eating it seemed and he looked up at our entrance. His eyes hardened and he stared at my mother. She sighed softly and moved forward.

“Lord Chen Hu may I speak?” she said softly.

“Yes.” He replied in a clipped tone.

She went to her knee and that shocked me. She looked up at him and he too was shocked.

“I beg your pardon for my offensive behavior the last time we met. I was wrong to speak and act as such to you and in front of your people. I hope you can and will forgive the transgressions.” She said loudly enough for all to hear.

“I accept your apology.” He said.

“Thank you.” She said standing.

She bowed and intended to leave.

“Lady Augusta! May I have a word please?” Chen asked loudly.

“Hai.” She said turning.

He motioned for her to follow to his den and she did. Quon came in just as our parents were leaving. He looked at me surprised and then looked over my attire. He came up to me and pressed his lips to my ear.

“You are beautiful inu.” He whispered.

“You are as well.” I murmured.

He was standing behind me and my normally reserved Quon tipped my head back and started kissing me rather passionately. My brain shut down as his tongue teased mine. I had reached up one hand and tangled it in his silver hair. He conveyed not only his ardor but his emotions into his magnificent lips. I was moaning softly and seemed to forget where I was. He pulled away and purred in my ear.

“I am sorry.” He whispered hoarsely.

“What for?” I asked softly.

“For such a public display. It hit me that you truly have part of me within your womb.” He said softly.

“Are all Byakko so passionate about their offspring?” I asked smiling.

“Most.” He said kissing me again.

I knew we were being stared at; the looks that Quon was giving me and I know my feelings were plain on my face. Somewhere between my kidnapping in Sapporo and our time in Shanghai; we had fallen deeply for the other.

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

Augusta actually blocked the Byakko lord out and she waited patiently for him to speak. He watched her and he waited on her it seemed.

“I am sorry again Lord Chen. What happened is something my sire and even my mother would do.” She said looking him in the eye.

“I am also sorry that you found my thoughts so offensive. You are a unique creature even amongst your own from what I understand. You display a strength few show I have been told.” He said softly.

“Your thoughts were not offensive. My reaction to them was overboard. I know better than to peek into a psi challenged mind.” She replied.

“A what?” he asked laughing.

“A psi challenged mind. It means you are basically deaf, dumb, and blind to most psionic talents.” She said shrugging.

“Interesting way to put it.” He said standing.

“Again I am so sorry for my behavior.” She said bowing.

“Did you mean what you said about being tempted?” he asked suddenly.

“Hai.” She murmured.

“Why did you invade my mind like that?” he asked coming closer.

“It was easier than giving into my lust.” She admitted.

“Your yoki is stronger than anything I have felt. I can normally repel this kind but you are stronger.” He said admiringly.

“I took your blood purposely so I could control your responses. My mother was a lover of Vlad and taught me rather horrid things. I cannot say how sorry I am.” She stated.

He kissed her cheek and pulled away and bowed.

“I hope we can move on from this unpleasantness.” He stated lightly.

Augusta reached up her thumb and traced his lower lip. His face twitched and she very softly placed a fairly chaste kiss on his mouth.

“I am not a horrid person Lord Chen. I got angry at myself and took it out on you.” She said scowling.

“We have much more sense then what we are doing Lady Augusta.” He said trying to breathe evenly.

“Hai I know. I am drawn to you for what reason I do not know.” She said narrowing her light brown eyes.

She kissed him again very softly and he stiffened. They were soft and quick nips at his lips and he again felt his body tightening but of his own accord. He placed his hands on her shoulders and forced himself to calm down.

“You are stunning and I would ordinarily give my fang to experience you but I will not. Your mate is not an enemy I care to have.” He said pressing his cheek against hers.

“I know.” She replied.

“Lady Augusta.” He whispered in a strained tone.

“Chen call me Augusta please.” She stated.

She sliced through his pein-fu and exposed his powerful chest. Her lips were on his flesh tasting it and nipping it. She lowered her head sucked on one nipple and tugged at it roughly with her teeth and she heard the Byakko lord moan. Her mind was hazy with lust and desire and she actually pulled herself in. She shut her eyes and knew they had to be red. She captured Chen's mouth and was trying to rein herself in but started to fail.

“Please allow me to have your blood.” She begged.

“What is wrong?” he asked.

“Please Chen. I have to stop this and myself. If I satisfy one hunger than I can quell the other.” She explained.

He nodded slowly and she lifted his arm and was hungrily placing kisses along his forearm and started licking the veins in his wrist. She sank her fangs into his wrist and drank deeply. Chen gasped as a heady feeling of rapture overcame him. They sank to their knees and he felt lethargy overcome him as well. She ripped her fangs from his wrist and felt her ardor a little more under control.

“What is it you do?” he asked breathing deeply.

“It can be made to feel horrid. I had no wish to further rape your mind.” She said crawling away from him.

Chen looked at the gorgeous creature breathing heavily as he was.

“We should both find our mates.” He muttered.

“Which one for you?” she teased him.

“You are funny. Yes I have concubines for political reasons Augusta.” He said standing.

“I wonder if you take more than one tigress at a time.” She said proactively.

“That is a rather impertinent statement.” He said fighting his lust again.

“Have you?” she asked.

“Maybe.” He stated thickly.

“Perhaps more?” she stated.

“When the mood has struck me. Mostly in my younger days.” He admitted.

“I need to go.” She said standing.

“You mentioned your mother; what was her name?” he asked.

“Danika.” She muttered looking away.

“Does she live?” he asked.

“My daughter killed her and my sire. I would have done it myself but I was too cowardly.” She said disgusted.

“Was she really that bad?” he asked curious.

“She would have ravished her own grand daughter if Vlad had let her.” She said sick to her stomach.

“Sorry.” He mumbled.

“Hai my kind can be wretched. I enjoy a bit of risqué behavior but not what the uppyr court was into. What I did to you was tantamount to rape.” She said looking down.

“It was not what I have been used to but I will not hold it against you. I will admit it was erotic but my species the male is dominant.” He said.

“I really need to go now. Again I am so very sorry.” She said and ported away.

Chen leaned against his desk and vowed to himself never to be alone with her again. She was a very dangerous female to covet and he had seen the silver inu lord in action and never wanted to meet him in battle. He was one opponent he was very sure would kill him and quickly.

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Quon and I actually were wrestling in his bed and I was laughing hysterically. We had gotten the idea of who could best the other in strength. He was bulkier than I and had sheer physical presence but I held my own. Whatever walls had been between us had disappeared and I got a look on my face.

“What are you thinking inu?” he asked holding down one hand.

“How easy you are.” I smirked.

“That old issue?” he said in mock anger.

“No not in jesting.” I smiled.

I reached my free hand up and lightly stroked above his tail. His face was contorting and he let out a moan.

“That is what I mean. You start moaning like a whore.” I said chuckling.

“I am sorry but Gods it feels so incredible.” He moaned in my ear.

“Hai you are easy. Too many erogenous zones.” I smiled again.

“Your touch is different. You illicit such glorious pleasure when you caress me.” He said closing his eyes.

“You are beautiful my Byakko prince.” I said softly.

“You are as well my inu princess.” He smiled.

He settled next to me and lightly traced circles on my abdomen. He was purring rather loudly and I smirked at him.

“The One Great War, it seems there seems to still be rippling effects these many centuries later.” He observed.

“Hai. The Dragon Clan and the Western and Northern Inu tore each other to pieces.” I remarked.

“You have said that you were reincarnated.” He said running his claws through my hair.

“Hai. I was an inu princess; my grandsire's sister to be exact. You know about Naraku. It seems that we moved in similar circles that we do now. I went back after Wallachia; I was broken. Vlad had stolen my old fang and my father commissioned Totosai to make the Kumosaiga. I could not release its techniques so I went and trained with Totosai and he sent me onto my grandmere who then sent me to the Taisho. That is where I met Tekeshi and Akemi met Ryukotsusei. I personally did not like the dragon but he did murder me in a previous life. Akemi had two sons; Ryuu and Ryuunosuke. Before you ask; Tamiko sent me back and she is the one that gave me the substance to make the scent of our cub disappear.” I said softly.

“Tamiko is a what?” he asked interested.

“Apparently a minor kami. I know three it seems; Tamiko, Teruyoshi, and Kaito. They are all higher level youki than even a taiyouki.” I said sleepily.

“So what does this Tamiko want with you?” he asked slightly concerned.

“She is a sort of protector of the inu she said. Tamiko said we are having a son.” I yawned.

“A son?” he smiled widely.

“Hai a son.” I nestled against his chest.

“I am glad I kidnapped you.” He teased.

“Are you? I thought you were going to kill me.” I snickered.

“Yeah well kicking me in the groin was wrong.” He said in mock anger again.

“I was protecting myself; besides you earned it.” I smirked.

“I did not! You escaped and I was trying to bring you in unharmed I might add.” He said lightly licking along my ear.

I moaned lightly and he laughed.

“I am going to have some clothing and other things made for you to have here. I think I should like some sheer night gowns made as well.” He murmured.

“Quon you act as though you like me.” I remarked.

“I find you tolerable.” He joked.

“You are alright too.” I teased back.

He lowered his lips to my abdomen and ran his tongue along it and I let out a throaty laugh. If another inu saw my relationship with Quon then there could be hell to pay.

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I was in Hong Kong at Sai Kung. There was a palace there and I was inspecting it. I had only been here once and it was a very large palace in comparison with the Shanghai Palace. The inu here was varied and the influx of foreign youki was impressive. Tekeshi had kept a small army here and I had never stopped long enough to meet with the general. He was a red inu and I had never seen one before. His eyes were blazing green and his hair was long; his name was Geming and his name was intriguing in of itself. He perused me brazenly and I grew irritated with him immediately.

“My Lord mentioned you several times.” He said.

“Lord Tekeshi never mentioned you.” I said flatly.

“Well Lady Asuna it seems you are easily offended.” He remarked.

“I do not know you soldier.” I said scowling.

“I am sorry; Lord Tekeshi and I were close friends. He told me you two had a sake contest.” He said raising a red brow.

My cheeks burned and I narrowed my eyes. I could not believe Tekeshi would mention it. This inu was used to attention from females and I was not about to support his neediness for said attention.

“Do not speak to me of Lord Tekeshi. You do not know me so do not make yourself familiar at all!” I snapped.

“Yes Lady Asuna.” He said bowing and he had a slight smirk to his face.

I glared at him and stalked away from him. I heard him follow me at a discreet distance and I bit the inside of my cheek in supreme irritation. Zhou came in from a side hall and she had Hana on her hip. Yuudai had done me a service and had taken Nori and Mizuki to their chichi; Ken'ichi went along because the two wailed without the other one around. Sheng had retrieved Hiroto and Kazuo himself and it had been tense. I pushed the emotions down and refused to bemoan the situation because I knew I was doing the right thing. I mentally had given up on Naraku because it was too damn hard to try and make it work with him. I had to close my eyes tightly and I felt Zhou put a supporting hand on my shoulder. She was coming to know me well and I nodded to her.

“My Lady will retire for now General Geming. You will present the city's defenses to her this evening.” Zhou said loudly.

“Yes Miss Zhou.” Geming bowed to us.

I walked quickly to the apartments that were mine and I felt despair overcome me.

“Zhou, I am going to find Ishin and make sure he is not in Japan.” I said softly.

“Yes my Lady. My Lady?” she asked softly.

“Hai?” I looked at her.

“You are acting with the heart of a nu zi. I admire you for it.” She said quietly.

“You have no idea how much that means to me.” I said sighing deeply.

She bowed and I smiled sadly. Tears did fall down my cheeks but they were silent. I closed my eyes and concentrated on the tsuchigumo lord. I ported near him and masked my presence. I was in a lush jungle and it was not in Japan at all. I was thrilled with that at least. I figured I could be as far south as Siam. I knew I was being watched and I pulled my fang.

-Why are you here? - I heard in my mind.

-Ishin? - I pathed back.

-Hai. Why are you here? - He demanded again in thought.

-To make sure you were not in Japan. - I pathed truthfully.

-No, I am not in Japan. - He hissed in my mind.

-You are in your true form?-I thought.

-Hai. I have to eat too you know. - He snapped.

-Where are we? - I asked him.

-Vietnam. - He thought.

-Will you change form so we may speak? - I pathed.

I heard a growling in my mind and I saw him in his humanoid form deeper in the jungle. He was moving slowly towards me and he was tense as if ready to pounce.

“You got me out of Japan quite well inu.” He said in an angry tone.

“I had to.” I remarked.

“Why do you feel the need to plague me so?” he demanded fiercely.

“That is a stupid question.” I replied.

I cursed my damn emotions and tears sprang to my eyes again. I looked away from him and wiped my eyes with the back of my hand. I looked up and he had moved closer.

“Did you catch your meal?” I asked stupidly.

“Maybe. Unfortunately my venom would not do much to you.” He said with an angry scowl.

“Go ahead and hate me but you could at least wait till your son was older to engage in this folly!” I hissed.

“Go away from me. Leave me alone!” he raged.

“No! I gave up too much to make sure you do not kill yourself because of your damnable pride! You were hurt and I am sorry; you should not have had to suffer that! I want you; do you hear me? Your son wants you!” I said grabbing his shoulders.

Old pain flitted across his features and I had nailed his anguish. His father had killed his mother and Hisashi had taken his father. Hisashi had finally committed the final sin of turning his back on him. This poor creature had suffered what too many had suffered during the One Great War. His hands were clenched and blood dripped from his palms.

“Do not feel sorry for me inu! I have no need for pity!” he hissed.

“Then pity me!” I hissed back.

“What? Why because he is an idiot?” Ishin stated with vehemence.

I hit his chest and a torrent of tears started falling. I kept beating his chest and he allowed it. I felt rain starting to fall and I screamed at him. The rain became heavy and he grabbed my wrists.

“Stop right now!” he yelled over the downpour and let go of me.

“How can you be so intelligent and so asinine at the same time?” I yelled back.

“Leave me alone inu. Kamis just leave me alone!” he cried.

“Ishin forgive! Kamis damn it, please!” I cried to him.

I held the sides of his face and he again tried to avoid my gaze. I was glad for the rain and it covered my tears. I was failing again and growled in frustration. I jerked his head and made him look at me. I could see the anger and coldness start to enter his obsidian eyes. I jerked my hands away from him and I pulled my fang. I pointed it at his throat and he stared at me.

“I hate this. Should I end your life now and be done with it?” I said as my voice cracked.

“Do it.” He snapped.

“I do not want this Ishin. Please!” I said blinded by my tears.

He did not answer and I jerked my fang back and swung it hard. He never flinched and never said a word and I stopped the blade right before it met his flesh. Ishin jerked the Kumosaiga out of my hand and threw it away. He reached his hands up and pulled me flush against.

“You wish for my death inu?” he hissed.

“No but I do not wish for Naraku's death either.” I answered.

“He dismissed you for defending me. You know what is hilarious in this whole thing? You throw your feelings away for honor and there is no honor in this quandary at all.” He said bitterly.

“There can be. You can walk away.” I stated.

“What happens when I walk away and he hunts me down regardless? I have to see this through now.” He stated flatly.

I threaded my fingers into his ebony silk that was his hair.

“I am Ishin not Naraku.” He growled.

“You think I see him when I look at you? You really are a fool.” I pulled away.

“Your honor is intact Asuna. Crawl back to Naraku who houses my brother and beg his forgiveness and heal your own heart.” He said harshly.

“Set foot in Japan and I will stop you.” I said choking back sobs that threatened to erupt.

“Why do you care so much?” he demanded.

I knew what he referred to and I shook my head in negation. I did not know but I knew deep in my heart that this was not just my will but Fate's. I grew furious with his stubborn assertions and I clawed at his haori. I was consumed with my anger and I hit his jaw. He growled low and grabbed my fist. He spun me away from him and brought his arm around my waist. He held me close to his body and I felt him drag his fangs along my throat. I tensed up and Ishin hissed softly against the sensitive skin.

“Do you still intend to stop me?” he hissed in my ear.

“I will do what I have to.” I said in a strangled voice.

I felt him pull my obi off and my eyes widened. He sliced through the stays of my hakamas and pushed them past my hips. He opened my haori and I felt his free hand on my stomach. He ran his fingertips softly across my slick flesh and his lips started nipping my neck. I said nothing and allowed him to feel my skin. His nips were becoming feverish and he let go of my waist and ran his hand along my hip. I put my hand over his that was feeling my along my ribs and pushed it a little; he cupped one of my breasts and I held back a whine. The hand along my hip just lightly kneaded the skin and I wished he would touch me or let me go.

“I cannot come back from this.” He whispered roughly.

“I do not understand.” I cried softly.

“This path I cannot come back from.” He murmured in a harsh tone.

I thought I understood his meaning. I thought I understood everything. The rain still came down and both of us were soaked through our silks. He said nothing else and I knew his intentions were to walk away yet again. He intended to see Naraku dead and end up dead himself. My hands tightened on his and I felt him try to pull away. I dipped into his mind and saw his residence here. He felt the mental intrusion and looked at me hard but I ported us. We ended up in a red tiled sprawling dwelling. The ceiling was wood beams and everything was tiled in a terra cotta color. I saw a large wooden platform with a fairly thick futon mat.

“Do you have dry clothes?” I asked softly.

“Of course.” He stated.

“Could you spare a set?” I asked.

“Hai.” He remarked.

I did not care about much at the moment and I pulled the wet silk off.

“Could you wait at least?” he hissed.

“No.” I answered.

I turned around and started dragging his sopping clothing off. It seemed very little mattered at the moment and I had tried to maintain my honor for no reason. I actually was looking at the situation objectively for a moment and my mind was far from anything licentious. His pale skin was chilled and I ran my palms over his chest to try and get the chill off. There was nothing fevered or passionate in my touch. I just moved my hands over his skin because it seemed too cold. I just did not care about anything at the moment except for heating the chilled flesh. I brought my hands to his hakamas and untied them. His breath hitched and I looked into his eyes and they were filled with heat. I worked the sopping silk past his hips. I slowly slid down and pulled the wet material down with me. His body was lean but rock hard. His abdominal muscles were heavily defined and his chest chiseled. I kept my eyes from staring at his groin and stood back up. I undid his hair and started running my palms over his chest again.

“You are cold.” I muttered.

“I assure you I can handle a little cold.” He replied.

“I am sure you can. You are not a cold individual. You have a fire in you and you have allowed it to die.” I said looking at him.

“Inu shall we dress? I am still male and you are a comely wench.” He said with slight irritation.

I shook my head no; I disengaged from him and went to his bed. I lay down on my side and he stared at me surprised. I pulled a light silk blanket over me and tried to let sleep or something take me.

“I am weary. Allow me time to rest and I will bother you no further. I care not what you do anymore.” I said tonelessly.

“Then why stay here?” he demanded.

“I need to restore my yoki. I have my limits as do we all.” I said almost bitterly.

I watched indecision flit across his features and then he was beside me.

“Promise me something inu.” He said fiercely.

“What?” I responded.

“Something happens to me; you will care for Karu.” He said.

“I promise. You intend to die anyway.” I said sarcasticlly.

“I assure you I do not but I would have my son well cared for.” Ishin snapped.

“Allow me to rest?” I asked softly.

“Hai.” He said.

I rolled away from him and more bitterness tore through me. I truly wished I had not ever met Naraku or Ishin for that matter. This whole damn mess with our souls would never get better; it seemed Naraku and I would always be doomed. It mattered not about anything and we were meant to suffer for our feelings. I feel to sleep and I knew that the silent tears fell again.

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I woke up and I was surrounded by warmth. It was highly pleasant and I rolled over and murmured softly. I felt hands on my body and lips on my breasts. I knew I had to be dreaming because I was in Vietnam and in Ishin's bed. I felt soft nips and a scorching wet tongue laving against my tightened nubs of pale pink flesh. Those lips wrapped around the tip of one peak and heat pooled and throbbed in my core. The sucking and tongue were exquisite torture and it was repeated with my other breast.

“Kamis.” I cried softly.

I knew I was awake and I squirmed against the onslaught. Hands lightly replaced the mouth and my tips were teased and rolled between fingers and thumbs. I threw my head back and it met a shoulder.

“Am I warmer now?” he asked roughly.

“Hai.” I moaned.

His fingertips wandered down my bare stomach and his breathing was harsh. I felt the first brushes of those same fingers brush my nether lips. He slipped a finger between my folds and dipped a finger into my sheath and pulled it out; he rubbed my distended nub. I moaned more and pressed my lower body against his. He lightly pinched, rolled, and massaged it. He changed the different sensations and I was crying out for him. His other hand busied itself with slipping three fingers into my sheath.

“Ishin?” I begged.

“You wanted this inu.” He said in a sultry tone.

He moved his fingers in me and still kept up the assault of my clit and my core. He was breathing into my ear and I shamelessly moved against his hand. He growled his approval and he pumped his fingers in and out of me hard and was bringing me to shattering but he stopped suddenly. I whined when I felt his body heat pull away from me. He spread my legs open and I felt his tongue at my center tasting me. I squeezed my eye shut and just felt. He started sucking on my clit and I let out a surprised yelp. I again felt him insert his fingers and it was exquisite torture. He purposely stroked the one spot that would bring me to ultimate pleasure. He continued to stroke within me and suck on my nub. He stopped suddenly and he lightly blew cold breaths on my clit and I squirmed and groaned.

“Ishin! Please.” I begged him softly.

“In my own time.” He growled.

I sat up and he eyed me. I looked freely at his body and with undisguised hunger. He was very aroused and his cock was heavy with need. I reached over and ran my thumb over his tip and spread the clear fluid that had collected there. His eyes were intense and I leaned down and replaced my tongue for my thumb and a small groan did escape him. I tried to press him back and he shook his head no. I was mad with desire and grew angry. I backhanded his jaw and he stared at me as if I was prey. I grabbed his shoulders and pressed my claws into them trying to get him to react. He leaned forward and pressed me back. The current was thick and Ishin lowered his lips to my ear.

“You are mine.” He said in a brittle tone.

“Ishin? What is going on?” I asked him through the haziness of my need.

“Do you still not care what I do Asuna?” he demanded as he pushed into me.

He was so very large and seated very deeply. I was breathless and he pulled all the way back and slammed into me. I cried out and he was softly brutal for whatever reason. I lifted my long legs and wrapped them around his hips and rested my feet on his calves. I reached up and pulled his head down to mine. I met his lips with my own and Ishin seemed surprised. I invaded his mouth brutally the same as he was taking me. He continued driving into me hard and I deepened the kiss. I mated and teased his tongue and he moaned into it. He slowed his hard thrusting and I groaned softly. He broke our lip lock and released a soft moan. He pressed his forehead to mine and the air changed completely between us. His mind was in turmoil and I brushed it with mine in an attempt to try and soothe his beast. He shook his head and he rolled us so I was straddling him.

“Make love to me.” He breathed deeply.

He held my hips and I rotated them. Ishin was fighting his nature and wanting to surge up into me. I ground myself into his pelvis and I watched him breathe heavily. I kept myself even and slow. He sat up to suckle a rosy tip into his mouth; I cried out loudly as he started to become fevered. He held me forward as he lavished one then another. He moved his lips to my neck and growled fiercely.

“Harder!” he demanded.

“In my own time!” I retorted.

I was immediately beneath him again and he moved his thumb to my nub and lightly scratched the skin. I glared at him and he gave me a lazy and sensual smile. I gasped as warmth and a slight numb feeling throbbed around my nub. He thrust into me harder and I arched my back.

“What did you do?” I cried out.

“My venom has several uses.” He murmured in my ear.

I groaned loudly and between the glorious throbbing in my clit and the friction of his movements I tightened around him. I released a guttural moan as my body spasmed around him and he grunted as well. He continued to push and withdraw from me; he took my lips in a devastatingly gentle kiss and he pushed me into another release. I met his movements wantonly and I felt a pull on my yoki.

“No Ishin no…” I moaned.

“Hai.” He hissed softly.

“Cannot please!” I cried.

His yoki pulled mine and his thrusts were sharp and relentless. He grabbed my hands and I felt his whole presence. He was demanding for me to take in his raw power and I was trying to fight it. He lowered his lips to my throat and bit in lightly. I went rigid as a powerful orgasm ripped through me and pulled him with me. He too stiffened as he held onto my hands tightly. I felt his energies wash over me and I had to shut my eyes at the intimacy. Telepathic species coupled with body and mind and Ishin was no different. He slowly withdrew from me and held me to him. My breathing was slowing and our limbs were tangled.

“Do you still not care what I do?” he asked in a sleepy voice.

“Not at all.” I retorted.

“So I gather you still intend to stop me?” he asked me archly.

“Hai! Now more than ever.” I said barely above a whisper.

“I suppose then you will see me on a battlefield as well.” He remarked.

“Hai.” I answered.

“So when you try and run me through remember what we have done.” He said rolling to his side.

“You are being cross on purpose.” I snapped.

“Maybe so. You got what you wanted from me?” he asked coyly.

“How dare you!” I hissed.

“How dare I what Asuna? I gave into lust is all.” He said snidely.

“That is not true and you know it! You felt whole!” I snapped.

“So what? You tell me you still intend to stand in my way.” He replied in a temper.

“You think I will let you murder Naraku? Both of you need a dose of reality. You think I would give myself to you and then watch you die?” I said in a fury.

“So now you do care what I do.” He said closing his eyes.

“I walked away Ishin because of you whether you like that fact or not. Maybe Naraku was right; this was your plan all along and I did walk right into it!” I hissed.

“If he learns of this and it tears him apart all the better but no I had no plans to bed you. This was entirely hormonal.” He said.

“Sadistic bastard. You wish me to hate you?” I asked him angry.

“No. I wish for you to leave what will be alone.” He answered sitting up.

“You will allow no one to care for you. You will only have a skewed revenge.” I said standing and wrapping the coverlet around me.

I noticed my fang that I had so carelessly left in the jungle leaning against the far wall.

“You retrieved my fang.” I observed.

“Burned the hell out of my hand but hai.” He acknowledged.

“This was something beautiful but I guess I am relegated back to being your sworn enemy. Do you still wish me to take custody of Karu if death befalls you? If so then make your wishes known to your people.” I said clenching my teeth.

“Hai you are right this was something profound but I told you I cannot come back from this path. Hai, I would not have asked you if I did not want you to care for Karu in the event of my death.” He answered.

Regret ripped through me and I nodded. He pulled on some sleeping hakamas and then went and grabbed me a yukata and handed it to me. I dropped the coverlet and wrapped the yukata around me. I picked up the Kumosaiga.

“I will see you next time on the battlefield and I will not think one thought of what has occurred.” I said porting away.

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Self recrimination tore through me and I appeared in Hong Kong. I was in my private sleeping quarters and anger consumed me. I put on a kimono and then went to Zhou and she was playing with Hana.

“Come. We are for the West.” I said firmly.

“Hai my Lady.” She said standing.

“Go tell General Geming that he will present himself to the West as soon as he secures the city against any tsuchigumo or scorpion threat.” I said.

“Hai my Lady.” She said bowing.

She came back fifteen minutes later and I ported the three of us to the West. I walked to my chambers and Zhou took Hana to the nursery. I walked to the hot spring and disrobed. I washed my skin thoroughly and washed my hair. I grabbed a looking glass and looked at my neck. I had a purplish mark where Ishin had bit into me. He must have injected some of his venom when he bit me. I threw the glass and it shattered. I stood up and dressed.

I went to the southern palace complex and went into Yuudai's study. He was at his desk and he looked up.

“There is no talking him down. You took Sendai?” I asked.

“Hai we did. Do you intend to flush him out entirely?” he asked raising a brow.

“I have no intentions any further. If they attack then we defend. Naraku can be damned and so can Ishin! I am done with both. Naraku and I have been doomed from day one.” I said in anger.

“Chuusin you are hurting. You do not mean it.” He said quietly.

“Hai I do.” I said with finality.

“Asuna.” He said trying to take my hand.

I kissed his instead and turned on my heel. Ishin would make a move fairly soon and I had news for him and Naraku both. They both could feel my wrath.

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Ishin did attack and it was actually to take back Sendai. He had been fond of the castle he had built on the mountain. I had stationed troops and we were fighting back viciously. I was in the throng of the battle and Osamu was near and he was fighting too. I saw Naraku in the distance and I moved through the crush fairly quickly.

“What are you doing here?” I hissed.

“Waiting for the bug to show.” He snapped.

“This battle is none of your concern. Ishin is mine to take down.” I said in fury.

“You intend to try and take him out?” he asked confused.

“Stay out of my way. In fact you can leave.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Quit it! You made a choice.” He snapped.

I was angry and I pulled my fang. He looked surprised and I surged my yoki through it and the black aura appeared.

“What are you doing?” he demanded.

“I wish I had never met you. I wish you had died a century ago so that this joke never went this far!” I said bitterly.

“I am sure.” He said in a cocky tone.

“Leave Naraku because all you do is prove Ishin's point that you are indeed a long dead tsuchigumo lord. Apparently you and I were only meant to produce the pups and nothing more; Kamis know it had been a one fight after another. You cannot give at all; it is about you being the independent one and what you are going to do. I could not even give Sheng more because of you. I defended a creature who had been wronged by his family and you would rush in and be merciless as always. You have learned nothing since the Shikon Debacle.” I said as tears slid down my face.

He stared at me and I knew Ishin was near. I did the only thing I could think of. The black aura dissipated and I shoved my fang through Naraku's shoulder and he shouted in pain as I shoved him back. Ishin appeared and I turned on him too. My fang clashed with his blade and he stared at me in anger. I looked back at Naraku who was hurt as bad as I had seen him in awhile. I spun and my fang met Ishin's over and over.

“So you keep your promises.” He said.

“Hai.” I muttered.

“You stabbed him?” he asked in disbelief.

“Hai.” I hissed.

I surged my strength and I brought my fang back and let loose the Spider Wave. Ishin put up a barrier but it still threw him back forcefully. I ran to him as he fell and put my blade to his throat. I shoved my claws into his upper chest and let my Dakkasou into the wounds. Pain clouded his face and I stood.

“I hate you both. Try and kill each other now.” I snarled.

I walked away from Ishin and Naraku called to me via telepathy. I stared at him coldly. I moved closer to him and I shoved my claws into the wound and seeped small amounts of my toxin to seal the wound.

“Why?” he snapped.

“You will not kill him. He will not kill you and why? It is my will. You live because of my will. I am not just the heir to the West and the House of the Moon; I am the Moon. You will never hurt me again.” I said tonelessly.

“You sound just like Sesshomaru!” he snarled at me.

“I should sound like him. I should take him as my example. It is not about the heart but it is about supreme conquest. Never cross me again. You hate my house you hate me as well. Hate your daughter who bears my crest; hate your son who inherited my hair. Hate them for they are mine.” I said with icy malice.

“What the hell is wrong with you?” He demanded.

“Realizing what I should have realized along time ago; you mean nothing. How could I have dared crossed my sire? You are the enemy just as any tsuchigumo.” I said standing.

“This is not you!” he hissed.

“It is now. You teach your lessons well Naraku. I should have learned them when Onigumo tried to teach me. I have already had Mizuki and Nori retrieved. Leave us alone.” I said flashing my eyes at him.

His face was impassive and I walked away. My heart was breaking but I had decided to turn cold. I should have stayed the frigid bitch I was when I met Katashi. No more would it be about love. I had an empire in the making. I walked away and I did not look back.

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I sat in my father's study and he was stunned at my behavior in Sendai. My mother sat with us as well and my eyes were glacial.

“Why are you acting as such?” My mother asked.

“I am done. My esteemed sire has been right all along. My alliance with the vermin has been vile. Mizuki and Nori are mine and mine alone. I will associate with foreigners as little as possible and I will rule my lands.” I said flatly.

My father's eyes were hooded and he said nothing, I stood and vacated the room.

“I had not realized that they had dissolved their union.” Sesshomaru stated.

“She is heart broken Sesshomaru.” Augusta said concerned.

“Naraku is gone. That is a good thing.” He said shrugging.

“How can you be so callous?” His mate asked.

“I have hated him for some time Augusta and I think Asuna will be happier without him.” He said bluntly.

“She is not happy. She is hollow and there are things you know not a damned thing about!” she hissed standing.

Augusta stormed out of the study and went to her daughter's chambers. The rooms were empty all ready and Augusta knew Asuna intended to cut herself off from Quon as well.

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I was in my study in Shanghai settling accounts and disputes. Zhou came in and I pretty well knew that Quon was here. She bowed and the Byakko prince stood there and he looked confused.

“I did not understand the need for a letter.” He said coming in.

I looked at him and braced myself for the lie I was fixing to tell.

“I have miscarried.” I said flatly.

“What?” he said stunned.

“Hai. I have been thinking it would be for the best if you and I were to not see each other anymore.” I said without emotion.

“What is wrong with you? Why did you not tell me when it happened?” he asked in anger.

“The cub was tying us together when we had no business being together. I am being realistic and simplifying my life. I want no more pain.” I said raising a brow.

“You are not acting yourself. What is wrong?” he asked.

“I am seeing things clearly. There is no room for love; it is a weakness. I will be weak no longer. It is better this way really Prince Quon. We should never have crossed the line. Mate the Amur; she should not have any issues carrying a pure blood tiger.” I said stiffly.

“Asuna this is insane!” he snapped.

“No it is wise. Please return to Hunan; there is nothing for you here.” I said coldly.

“You are hurting and grieving! Let me help you!” he said trying to come closer.

“Prince Quon return to Hunan. There is nothing for you here except an enemy species.” I said frigidly.

Anger and betrayal showed in his features but I kept myself aloof. He turned and left the study. I did not flinch as I destroyed a good relationship. No one would hurt me again even if it meant living without a mate. I sat back down at my desk and worked on my correspondence.

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Augusta paced Chen's den when the Byakko Lord finally showed up. He looked agitated and he looked at the Western Lady.

“Quon?” she asked.

“On a tirade. Your daughter miscarried?” he asked.

“I have not been told that but she is cutting herself off from everyone. A miscarriage would explain her pain but she would tell me that.” Augusta remarked.

“My son is feeling betrayed and he does not understand. She flatly said that they were enemies.” Chen said narrowing his eyes.

“She did this as a pup. She would withdraw completely when she was in emotional turmoil. She did it some after Vlad had taken her. Naraku devastated her and this thing with the tsuchigumo has been tearing her up as well.” She said sighing.

“Has she miscarried or not?” Chen demanded.

“I do not know.” Augusta answered helplessly.

“Has she withdrawn even from the inu general?” Chen asked.

“Hai. Yuudai is confounded as well but he has known her all his life and is staying calm about it; he is trying to give her time to work through her issues.” She answered.

“Could you talk to my son?” Chen asked softly.

“Hai.” She said.

Chen stood and motioned for her to follow him. Augusta followed silently and she followed Chen into what she assumed was Quon's private rooms. The Byakko prince looked at her in anger and hurt.

“What do you want?” he demanded.

“I think she is driving you away on purpose.” Augusta answered.

“Why would she tell me that our cub was lost?” he asked.

“To dissolve any ties you would have to her. This thing between Naraku and the tsuchigumo has turned her wrathful. She took Mizuki and Nori from Naraku and she stabbed him.” Augusta explained.

“I am not him!” he said furiously.

“She had been hurt and betrayed. I think she is trying to make sure you will not hurt her first.” She said.

“Why should I hurt her? Why?” he hissed.

“She did this as a pup. She did this after Wallachia Quon. She shielded herself away so she would not have to feel. Quon please do not be like Naraku.” Augusta pleaded.

“I am not anything like him!” Quon hissed.

“Do not accept her denial.” Augusta said strongly.

“What am I supposed to do? Go there and beg for her attention? I have no way of knowing if she carries or not.” He said.

Augusta sighed and went to leave. Quon grabbed her arm and nodded to her. The Byakko disappeared into his shoki mist and prepared for a fight. He would marry her according to Byakko tradition if need be he decided. There were ceremonies that were preformed amongst his kind.

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I was in the dojo practicing bujutsu; it helped to calm me and center me. I had been at it for hours and I had worked up quite a sweat. Zhou came in and bowed. I nodded to her but did not stop my movements.

“The Prince of Hunan is here my Lady.” She said.

I looked at her and sighed. I nodded and continued my movements. I heard Quon enter and I barely nodded to him.

“I do not accept you dissolving our union. I love you and if you have miscarried then I should like to try again for another later on.” He stated flatly.

“I did not give you a choice Prince Quon Hu. There is a strong attraction between us but it is nonsense and you know it. I want no more offspring and I will not try for any as you say.” I said as coldly as possible.

“Do you think me a simpleton? You expect me to believe that you do not love me? Will you stop your training for a moment?” he said trying to remain calm.

I stopped and stared at him with a haughty look. I cocked my head to the side and stared at him disdainfully.

“I did not mark you in return and this alliance serves no purpose to either you or me. If it does not benefit me then I see no reason to continue.” I stated.

“I am not Naraku. I would not abandon our relationship because we disagreed. We are different species and there are bound to be differences of opinion.” He said.

“Grow up Quon! Let us leave it alone! I saw how most of the Byakko reacted to your public display. Let us leave it while we remember good things about each other and not hate. There is no cub so why lie to ourselves?” I said growling.

“Prove it then.” He said crossing his arms.

“I have no need to prove anything. I have not lied to you since the herb incident. Why would I lie now?” I said crossing my arms.

“You truly would give up on us because of him? I was raised in a different land and court. There is no history between our families. There is no past in which to dwell. What we had was forged by us and no one else.” He said raising a brow.

My lip trembled at his words and he moved closer to me. I looked down and he lifted my chin.

“Become my mate in front of the whole of Hunan. Let us be joined in front of heaven and all. Let me announce my love for you to my people. Allow us to be in the open and no shame upon our union.” He said holding my face.

“You are a fool!” I hissed.

“No, I am not. I am not scared of my nobles as I am sure you are not either. We are the heirs to our lands not them.” He said firmly.

“I am mated to Yuudai in the West.” I said.

“I told you our union stands in China. I will not interfere with your life on the islands. I could care less about them now since Sapporo.” He stated holding my cheeks.

“The rest of Asia would see this as a political union.” I said bluntly.

“Better for us that do you not think?” Quon chuckled.

“I will not be hurt by you.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Why would I hurt you? Do you not think we have already had a huge disagreement when you took Sapporo? If we could fall for each other in spite of that; what small matter would affect us? You have to live with your conscience and if you have to defend this Ishin then so be it.” He said with a shrug.

“I care nothing for any tsuchigumo or half breed tsuchigumo. I swear if they come within a foot of me I will slay them.” I said heartlessly.

“So be it.” Quon said.

“Why are you doing this?” I demanded.

“Because I do not give my heart lightly. You came to me when I faced death and gave me your blood. You were willing to face a challenge from a tigress to prove your claim to me.” He stated softly.

I cursed myself and there was a small part of me screaming what a damn fool I was. Quon slowly pulled me into his arms and I tipped my head back to see him better. Violent passion and love were expressed in his eyes and he possessed my lips and my very soul. I melded against him and surrendered. He finally pulled away and kissed my cheeks and forehead.

“I did not lose the cub. He is within my womb.” I said softly.

“I love you Asuna. You have become my best friend and my lover. You will be the mother to my son.” He said softly.

“You accused me of liking to talk!” I chuckled.

“Well one has to learn to converse well around you. Our ceremonies are similar to mortal weddings. They are a pact that is hell to undo. It almost takes an act of heaven to disavow the other. I wish to be stuck with you so to speak.” He said smirking.

“Hai. You will rue this day.” I chuckled.

“Maybe in moments of anger but I rather like living life on the edge.” He chuckled back.

“I love you as well.” I said despite my inner rage at the moment.

“Good. Lady Asuna will you marry me?” he murmured.

“Hai.” I said smiling