InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Across the Border and Back Again ( Chapter 56 )

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

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

Across the Border and Back Again

I watched my sire pace back and forth as Baku gave accounts of the Ming. They were growing as bold as to send scouts to the islands. I had no idea what they were thinking as the government of the Wanli Emperor was weak at best. Someone else was calling the shots and I was determined to find out who or what it was. Chen was having issues with Jin and I figured it was time to call upon my old mate and try and get him to back off Hunan. My parents were back to what some called their early days and the palace was light hearted most days. Jaken was bringing letters in and the thought struck me that he still was a single ugly little toad. I smirked at the kappa that served our family so faithfully and decided to find out where the females of his species hailed from.

“Jaken!” I called to him.

“Hai milady?” he squawked.

“Where are you from originally?” I asked him.

“Near the dragons milady!” he mumbled face down.

“Nagasaki?” I asked with mirth.

“Hai.” He answered almost in fear.

“Thank you. You may go.” I stated.

He jumped up and ran away as fast as his little legs could carry him. My father looked at me curiously and I grinned at him.

“In all his years have you known the kappa to rut?” I asked.

My sire snorted in laughter and Baku covered his mouth in amusement. I smiled widely and I stood.

“General Baku will you meet me in the southern complex later this afternoon?” I asked him.

“Hai my Lady!” he bowed.

“My Lord.” I bowed to my father.

“Daughter.” He inclined his head.

I decided to visit my second cousins. My cousin had given birth to a very powerful little boy and Anupu was a wonderful father. Asuna had found her second soul mate and that was rare. Shezmu was slipping back and forth between Egypt and Jining and I suspected he had a lover. I was happy for him if he did. We still had a powerful connection but I would never control his life. I ported myself to Nagasaki and approached a dragon guard. He looked at me disdainfully but he knew to bring me to my cousin Ryuu. He looked up from his own tedious paperwork and stood when he saw me. He was so friendly and pulled me into a hug.

“Hello cousin!” he grinned at me.

“Hello Ryuu. I came seeking a mate for the West's own little kappa named Jaken. He says his species hail from here.” I said sitting.

“You have a kappa in the Western Palace? You are tolerant!” he laughed.

“He is annoying but has served our house for several centuries. I think he needs a mate to make him more pleasant and it gives me a good excuse to visit with you. By the way have you met your brother? His name is Egyptian actually.” I said.

“Hai, they named him Khenti. I like Anupu quite a bit actually. He and I get along rather well. Ryuunosuke and he are more at odds but my brother is a houshi.” He laughed.

“So you have met him. He is beautiful with his black hair and blue eyes.” I stated with a smile.

“Mother and Father were truly happy and very much in love; I see the same devotion from Anupu-sama that my sire had and I cannot help but like him. He makes my mother happy. I know she loved Daichi but I think that relationship paled in comparison to what her and my sire had. I think she realized it when she met the Egyptian inu.” He shrugged.

“He does love her. Everybody loves your mother though.” I chuckled.

“Well hai they do. How can they not?” he laughed.

We joked further and he actually knew where the kappa lived and it surprised me that they paid fealty to the Dragon Clan. I intended to send Jaken down on some errant mission and see if the ugly little toad could catch him an ugly little female toad. I ported to Guangzhou to see Lord Jin and see if his stupidity could be stopped. I went to the gate of the city and the guards let me in. I was shown to the Great Hall to where Jin and Jun were eating a noon day meal. Jin looked at me and was surprised. Jun stood and bowed to us both and left.

“May I sit?” I asked.

“Why not.” He answered.

“Has Sheng been allowing you to see the boys?” I asked gently.

“Only in Manchuria and only with him close by but it is better than nothing. I never expected him to be so cold.” He replied bluntly.

“He loves Hiroto and Kazuo very much. He and I had a terrible fight at the beginning of my pregnancy with them about them. He has always been a very hands on father.” I stated.

“Well they know I am their uncle and not that bastard Katashi.” He said looking away.

“Did Sheng still agree to you keeping Kazuo as your heir?” I asked him.

“Finally. I love those boys Asuna. I tried my best to be good to them and he rips them from me!” he said angrily.

“I know that Jin.” I sighed.

“I was sorry to hear that General Yuudai was killed. He was an extraordinary mind and I know your puphood best friend.” He said taking my hand.

I looked away and then looked back at him and squeezed his hand. He seemed a little more comfortable and settled back in his chair.

“You and Sheng could not work things out?” he asked me softly.

“No. I have changed too much for him. We tried but we remain very close. He has taken up role of advisor to Ang Chi and he is very good at what he does. I have the boys half the time as does he. I have been trying to get him involved with a bitch from the West that I know he would like.” I smirked.

“Is it not strange that his old mate is trying to get him a new one?” Jin chuckled.

“Like I said we are still close and make decisions on the boys together but that is it. Why should he not have a personal life because we could not make it?” I asked Jin.

“You are very liberal of mind. I have never understood that about you but then I could never tame you.” He shrugged.

“I am not to be tamed Jin. No one can do that; not even Naraku and he does not try.” I said sighing.

“Why are you here?” he asked bluntly.

“I want you to leave Hunan alone.” I stated.

“You think this is just about you? Did your little Byakko brat tell you that he and I have fought personally? He is a great warrior to be sure but they encroach on disputed lands Asuna! Your father in law can be vicious on a battle field.” Jin said rather loudly.

“I have seen Lord Chen in battle and I have fought Quon personally. I almost did not survive it. I also know they would not take what they did not believe was theirs.” I said.

“Is it true you gave the Byakko prince a son?” he asked suddenly.

“Hai I did.” I said softly.

“This is not just a political union is it?” he demanded of me.

“No it is not. Quon and I started out fighting each other rather viciously but we were attracted to each other. We fought it but finally succumbed to our feelings.” I explained.

“You gave him a son when you swore at one time to give me one. Do I have to be your enemy to be worthy of your love hmm?” he asked bitterly.

“Jin stop! I was pregnant by you but I lost the pup! I am sorry for that, sorrier than I can say but we never worked!” I stated vehemently.

“No, we did not did we. Not for lack of trying on my part. You would give and pull back.” He snapped.

“You never came for me! I was taken by that monster and you stayed back!” I cried out.

“I did not know where you were!” he snarled.

“You never asked! My mother would have told you!” I hissed.

“I am sorry! I can never forgive myself in my stupidity but for Kamis sake you came back pregnant with Tekeshi's pup! You never gave us a chance to work. You were angry at me and left.” He said in old pain.

“I was angry Jin. Naraku is hated by all and he came for me! HE CAME FOR ME! My sire and my brothers came for me but you shied away. Naraku watched in his mind's eye me getting raped and he tried to kill the son of whore right then and there! Did you know I was raped? I had a dirk stuck in my gut and that is what killed our pup and us. I realized you had abandoned me so I abandoned you.” I said with a clenched jaw.

“I am sorry.” He said looking down.

“Leave Hunan alone. Quon has nothing to do with what happened between us. Quon gets me and does not ask me to change. He wants what I want and he loves me for me. Our mating brings our lands riches and titles but it brought two groups of youki together in one small being much beloved in both lands. That is what happened between Quon and me.” I said flatly.

“Are you still with Naraku?” he asked bitterly.

“I will always be with Naraku. He is my one true soul mate.” I said standing.

“Yet you are with the tiger?” he asked me.

“My reasons and I would not stop either male from taking a concubine either.” I said bluntly.

“Kamis but you have become such a mainlander!” he said snidely.

“You are an ass. Be angry but take it out on me and not Chen!” I said glaring at him.

“Chen Hu has been my enemy from way back Asuna long before I met you.” He sneered.

“Chen is a good man.” I said rather bluntly.

“He may be good to his family but he is cruel to his enemies.” He snapped.

“He was never cruel to me even when I was his enemy.” I stated crossing my arms.

“No they wanted to fuck you.” Jin hissed.

“Go to hell!” I hissed back.

“Is it not true? How long did it take Prince Quon to jump into your bed?” he asked.

“Months.” I stated with a nasty scowl.

“Surprising.” He answered.

I was furious with him again and I started to stomp out of his dining hall. He stood up and grabbed me. He pulled me to him and kissed me rather fiercely. I struggled against him but he expertly worked his lips against mine. He always managed to make me a puddle of mush when he wanted. He was more than experienced in the rutting department and could turn a nun into his whore. I groaned against his lips and I finally tore my mouth from his. His blue eyes were stormy and I backed away from him.

“You still feel a pull. You still feel.” He said in a deep voice.

I glared at him and stepped away. My wrist actually started burning very badly and I looked around. Jin looked at me as if I had lost my mind.

-Ishin! Go away! - I pathed.

-Tell the fucking inu to back off! - He hissed in my mind.

-This is between him and me. I will tell him to back off but what are you doing? - I pathed back.

-To talk to you. - He snapped in thought.

“Ugh!” I snapped aloud.

“What in Kamis name is going on?” Jin asked annoyed.

“A mental conversation Jin. I have to go.” I snapped.

“Who has that kind of range?” he asked in shock.

“No one you know.” I said porting away.

I appeared in Shanghai and Ishin appeared moments after I did. He looked supremely annoyed and I stared at him in his audacity.

“Were you in Panyu?” I demanded.

“Hai I was.” He replied.

“For what reason?” I asked him.

“To speak with you.” He said narrowing his eyes.

“You marked me to locate me the same as I did when I took your blood.” I accused him.

“Pretty much.” He smirked.

“What did you wish to speak about?” I asked him rubbing my temples.

He moved to where he stood behind me and rubbed my temples for me. When he was so near I had a hard time focusing. He lowered his lips to my neck and sucked on my pulse point. I mewled underneath the exquisite torture. He let go of my neck and pressed his lips to my ear.

“I believe I may know who is pulling strings in China.” He whispered.

“Huh?” I responded dumbly.

“Hai. A youki it seems is more of a rival than me.” He stated kissing along my neck.

“Why tell me?” I asked in a moan.

“An excuse to touch you.” He stated softly.

“Ishin.” I cried out.

“Will you hear me out without dismissing me?” He asked.

“Hai.” I moaned as his hands slid around my torso and cupped my breasts.

“I loved Akane and I always will but she is not here anymore. You inserted yourself in my life and made me notice you inu. You made me ache for you.” He murmured in my ear.

“That is not the same as what you felt for your mate. That was beautiful and very pure Ishin.” I cried out softly as he brushed my peaks of my breasts through the silk of my haori.

“What I feel for you is not?” he asked me in a husky voice.

“No it is not. This is probably at best a great way to get back at Naraku.” I said harshly.

“How dare you!” he hissed.

“The coupling is spectacular really but I have seen your feelings for Akane. Do not ask me to compete with her memory because I will fail miserably.” I said closing my eyes.

“You think I compare you to Akane? Do you compare me to Naraku?” he demanded.

“No.” I said flatly.

“Then why would I compare you to her? You do not confuse me with him so why in Kamis name would I do that to you?” he asked me turning me around.

“How could you not? This is just a good rut.” I said stubbornly.

“Minimize your own feelings inu and leave mine out.” He hissed at me.

“Thank you Ishin for the information.” I said with a dismissive tone.

“I do not just couple for the hell of it Asuna.” He stated in a very angry tone.

“Then what have we been doing?” I demanded.

“Making love! To me there is a difference between a meaningless rut and a desire to express what I feel in the physical act. Apparently you are not the same.” He hissed.

I stiffened as I realized what he was saying. I shook my head no and backed away from him.

“You do not mean it. How can you? I belong to Naraku.” I said continuing to shake my head.

“Like hell you do. If you belonged to him then why open yourself to me? Why did you surrender your shields so quickly last time?” he demanded.

“I do not know.” I lied.

“You think I do not know you saw me in the past? You made sure I do not remember the details but you were there. Why did you do that inu?” he asked lifting my chin.

“Nobu opened his damn mouth!” I snapped.

“Hai he did.” He confirmed.

“I told you it was mistake.” I said in a snippy tone.

“You deny your own feelings fine! I cannot make you acknowledge what has transpired but you will not tell me how I feel. I make love to you because I am in love with you. Deny the truth if it helps you sleep but do not lie to me and say you belong to him!” he snarled in a fury.

I jerked away from him and stared out at the grounds outside the window.

“I compound my mistakes every time I lie with you. I will not deny I have very strong feelings for you but as you tied yourself to Akane, Sorami tied me to him forever. That cannot change.” I said bluntly.

“I told you I could release you from it. I will if you wish it. Say the word.” He said.

“Why would I do that Ishin? Would you release your binding to Akane?” I asked him.

“It is not the same thing Asuna. She is long past and Hisashi's soul is very much here and now.” He stated bluntly.

“You are unwilling to do the same that you truly want from me. We have an almost explosive attraction Ishin and I truly wish I could give you my all but I cannot. You truly cannot so why even try?” I asked him.

“You have an amazing talent for starting arguments when you feel uncomfortable. Look into your adopted son's family through Jing.” He suggested straightening himself.

“Relatives of Jing?” I asked slowly.

“Hai. I doubt the boy knows any but it seems she was not alone in her ventures. You know for an individual that is such a great warrior you are a fucking coward.” He stated.

“You see the world through your grief and hatred and you call me a coward? You have a lot of gumption to espouse that kind of shit.” I cursed back at him.

“I tell the truth inu, you hide behind pretty words. I see you on a battlefield and you do not back down but when confronted with emotion you run like scared little girl!” he exclaimed with narrowed eyes.

“Kiss my backside!” I hissed at him.

“Bend over.” He retorted.

I threw up my hands and walked out of the room. Anger flooded me at the news that the Ming were again working with a youki against Manchuria. This time it was against me and my son. Ishin had not followed and I figured our argument had made him leave. Thoughts of Jin and that problem crossed my mind. Damn males in general I thought. They all could take their insufferable pride and shove it!

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I was in a very sour mood as I supped with Quon and all his family. There were visiting Bengal and the royal family was entertaining them. I was now a member of the Byakko royal household and I sat and listened. I was unusually quiet as I contemplated what Ishin had told me about the Ming. I wanted to hunt and I had been eating prepared food too much of late. I was playing with the brazed beef and I finally looked up. I had been spoken to and I had not even heard it.

“Lady Asuna?” Meifen asked me.

“I am sorry my mind was wandering. I have received intelligence about the Ming.” I said softly.

Chen leaned forward and he seemed very interested in that news. Quon straightened and he put a hand on my lower back and was also attentive.

“Asuna please share. I assure Lord Chao has no love of the Ming court either. Lord Chao this is my daughter in law; Lady Asuna.” Chen introduced me formally.

I bowed my head to the Bengal Lord as he did to me. He was a regal looking creature and I could not tell his age by looking at him.

“Please tell us what you have found out Princess Asuna.” He said in a very rich voice.

“You all I am sure have heard the stories of my battles with Bai Gu Jing.” I stated.

They nodded and I looked around at the table that had seated many tigers including all of Chen's concubines. I knew for a fact that he did not rut with them and they were more for political alliances with the other tigers but most were quite lovely.

“My source says that she has members of her family that maybe helping the Ming in their endeavors.” I stated.

“Is it true that your grand mere betrayed your house?” Meifen asked.

“Hai Lady Meifen she did and she was put to death for betraying my father.” I said with a scowl.

“Some say you are the one that executed her.” Lord Aleksai said from further down the table.

The Amur lord had not spoken much to me since his daughter had been disgraced but there were no hard feelings it seemed.

“I did do it Lord Aleksei. Natsumi betrayed not only my sire but me as well. She gave the Ming information that led to the death of my General at Arms.” I said stiffly.

“Your inu mate.” Chao stated.

“Hai.” I said looking away.

“Asuna, there are no judgments here I promise you my dear.” Chen said softly.

“Thank you my Lord.” I said bowing my head.

“May we see the infant prince?” Chao said changing the subject.

Quon grinned at the request and I nodded my agreement. My prince got up and went to the family portion of the palace and Chen came and sat by my side.

“I am sorry that you are rehashing the unpleasantness my dear. Know we love you here.” Chen said softly.

“Thank you Lord Chen. I went and saw Lord Jin. He is most insistent it seems with disagreeing with you.” I said looking down.

“I think him still madly in love with you Asuna. I will fight him if necessary but that is not my wish. Quon has a very strong hatred of him you know.” He said.

“I know.” I sighed.

Quon came back in carrying our son who was wide eyed and purring quite loudly. He seemed to in permanent good mood and rarely cried at all. The tigresses were falling over themselves to see him. Quon was proud I could tell and he brought him to see Chao. The Bengal lord smiled at my son and Zihao grinned right back. The Bengal's tigress begged Quon to let her hold him and he looked at me. I nodded my agreement and she took him in her arms.

“He looks completely Byakko!” she exclaimed.

“The tiger is prominent in him. He has my grandsire's eyes though.” I said thoughtfully.

“The Inu no Taisho?” she asked impressed.

“Hai. My sire gave him a second Japanese name as well. It is Masaru.” I said smiling at my son.

“Well Zihao seems to fit him perfectly.” The tigress stated handing him to Quon.

He came and sat by me and took the place that his sire had vacated. I took Zihao into my arms and he purred even louder. I rubbed his cheek and he yawned.

“Shall I take him back to the nursery for you Asuna?” Meifen asked.

“Are you leaving?” I asked surprised.

“I am tired. I find myself getting fatigued easier these days.” She said smiling.

“I understand.” I said as I kissed Zihao's head.

I handed my son to his grand mere and she cooed to him softly as she walked back to the private chambers of the royal family. I smiled as she went on and went back to playing with my food. My feelings were in turmoil and I felt guilty for being happy with Quon. I stood up suddenly and bowed to all. Quon stared at me in confusion as I walked slowly out of the banquet.

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Chen moved over to his son and he nodded for more wine.

“I think she is feeling guilty son.” Chen said very softly in his ear.

“I have no idea how to ease this for her. She talks to me but she stays either very angry or withdrawn.” Quon admitted.

“Go and see if you speak with her. I can only imagine how I would feel if I lost your mother.” Chen said in understanding.

Quon stood up and bowed to all. Chen straightened and sipped his wine, He wondered if he should contact Augusta but dismissed the thought. He had heard she had given birth and he would ravish her the second he saw her he knew. He felt for his daughter in law and brooded over the turn of events.

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I had actually decided to hunt and see if I could take down some big prey. I was hoping that the raw meat and the thrill of the hunt would calm my mind. Ishin's words kept plaguing me and I wished to hell that he had not said he loved me. I wished we had stayed enemies. Tears actually pricked my eyes in my true form and I shook my massive head. I decided that I would find this relative of Jing's and destroy the individual. I saw Quon at the edge of the forest and I changed back and moved to him. Our lips met feverishly as he worked my hanfu loose. I was divesting him of his pien-fu as well. He knew I had needed him and it reconfirmed how much he loved me. We became one and my mind shut down for the moment.

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Augusta had come to Hunan and Asuna was going to fly into a rage. The tsuchigumo had finally made a move and it was at Iwaki. The West had kept a small contingent of troops at Edo and Sesshomaru wanted Asuna there to lead a defense of the small city. The ookami were trying to settle in the area and it seemed that Lord Ishin was going to try and stop it. Augusta was led into a banqueting hall and Chen was more than surprised to see her.

“Sesshomaru sent me to retrieve Asuna. The tsuchigumo have made moves in Japan.” She explained.

“I see. She went hunting. I can send Cheung to find her and Quon.” Chen said standing.

“Thank you.” She bowed.

Chen motioned for Cheung and he whispered in his ear.

“Yes Ba. I will be back shortly.” Cheung said bowing.

“Will you sit while we wait?” Chen asked.

“Hai.” Augusta said sitting.

A servant came forward and poured her a glass of wine. Chen made sure she heard his thoughts and she smiled at him. She was wearing a burnt orange hanfu ensemble and he thought she looked lovely.

“How is your son?” he asked softly.

“He is well. He is growing quite fast. Sesshomaru is pleased beyond measure.” She said as softly.

“What did you name him?” Chen inquired.

“Katsurou.” She replied.

“A good name. Who does he favor?” he asked politely.

“He has my coloring. Asuna and he have the same eye color.” She said staring at him over the rim of the glass.

“He must be stunning.” Chen remarked.

He was thinking of DongJiang and Augusta turned her head. She shut her eyes because they were changing to crimson. She concentrated on calming her heated blood and she turned her gaze back to Chen.

-If you do not stop your licentious thoughts I will attack you. I will find you later. - She pathed in his head.

He nodded to her and she saw Asuna, Quon, and Cheung enter.

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I saw my mother and she looked stunning. She had been ordering clothing again. I looked forward to seeing my armoire at the Western Palace as I knew it would contain many new silks.

-Ishin has attacked Iwaki. - She pathed.

-Has he? Are the troops still in Edo? - I replied in her mind.

-Hai. Your father wants you to defend the city and try and take it back for the ookami. - She thought.

“I understand.” I stated in voice.

Quon looked at me and I kissed his lips quickly.

“The tsuchigumo have moved again my love. I will see you soon.” I stated.

My mother grabbed my hand and ported us to Edo. I was still wearing a sapphire blue hanfu but the Kumosaiga was strapped to my hip. My mother bowed and so did I. I went to just outside the village and saw my uncle speaking with several of the men.

“My lady?” a lieutenant asked in surprise at my attire.

“Lieutenant Wataru correct?” I asked.

“Hai.” He bowed.

“We move now. Uncle Yasha are you coming or staying?” I asked.

“I figured I would join ya.” He smirked.

“Come then.” I said as I walked on with my soldier.

“My lady you look amazing!” Wataru said in awe.

“I occasionally dress as a female lieutenant. I assure you I will change before long.” I joked.

My uncle caught up with me and as I went the small garrison.

“So you intend to fight Lord Ishin?” he asked under his breath.

“If need be. Feelings play no part in battle Uncle Yasha. Just watch how you brandish the Tetsaiga will you? I have been on the receiving end of your fang.” I smirked.

“Yeah, yeah.” He grumbled.

I knew I was a sight as my hair was up and precious jewels were pinned in as well. I wore a diadem of silver and diamonds as well. Quon loved to see me dressed up and took every opportunity to shower me in very feminine things. It amused me to no end but I would wear his gifts with pleasure.

“Uncle Yasha you and I are going to port on ahead. Wataru you can be in Iwaki in two days?” I asked.

“Hai my Lady.” He bowed.

I grabbed my uncle's hand and ported us to outside of the small city. We moved with stealth and my wrist started throbbing. I cursed as Ishin would feel my presence. I slammed up every shield I had and masked us completely. He would have a time trying to locate me now.

“I need to get to our Tengu. Ishin will know that I am here.” I whispered.

“How?” he asked confused.

“He marked me as a way of locating me. I did the same to him.” I said not thinking.

“You got close enough to bite him?” he asked me surprised.

“Hai. Stop looking at me like that Uncle Yasha.” I snapped.

“Keh! Whatever.” He murmured.

“Be right back.” I said as I ported to Tamiko's home. I knocked and she opened the door. She looked pleased to see me and I entered her house.

“I need that salve. Ishin attacked Iwaki and he knows when I am near.” I said as I sat.

“Well I have kept some just in case. I cannot see anything on this creature and that disturbs me Asuna.” She said as she got a small container down from a shelf.

“He is no matter but can you find out anything on the origins of Jing and her family?” I asked as she handed me the container.

“I can do that.” She nodded.

“Thank you and I will see you soon.” I said hugging her.

She nodded to me and I rubbed the salve into the mark and it numbed it immediately. Ishin would not be able to sense me at all. He would get highly agitated at it but I needed the element of surprise. I ported back to my uncle and he was in a tree spying on the tsuchigumo. He jumped down and we moved silently.

“Hey Suna you kind of look out of place.” Inuyasha stated in a whisper.

“Well Uncle I will change later as now is not the time.” I hissed softly.

I knew there could be tsuchigumo in their true forms all over the place and I stretched my awareness. I caught a scent and I cursed under my breath. If Ishin did not beat the boy then I would. I ran quickly from my uncle and I heard the ookami howling a short distance away. I ran into a small clearance and Karu was surrounded by the ookami. There were a great many and he looked frightened. I yipped loudly and an ookami looked at me. He lowered his blue eyes and I realized it was Kouga. I had never seen his trued form and I was impressed.

“Back off Prince Kouga.” I demanded.

He growled at me and I growled right back.

“I said back off! This is a child and it is not honorable to take younglings!” I hissed.

He changed to his humanoid form and stalked to me. He was angry and I knew something must have happened to his underlings.

“Tell that to the baby bug Asuna!” he hissed back.

“Did you attack the ookami boy?” I asked.

“I did in defense of myself.” Karu said raising his head.

“You heard him; let him go.” I demanded.

Kouga snarled at me and went to backhand me and I caught his hand. My eyes flashed red and he stepped back.

“My sire has sent assistance Prince Kouga but you will do this as honor dictates and you will release that boy now!” I stated in a severe tone.

He barked several times and the ookami backed off. I stalked up to Karu and pulled him to me forcefully. I did not care what the ookami prince thought and I slapped Karu.

“Are you stupid? I have heard your sire tell you to stay away from his battles!” I snapped.

“You are not my mother!” he yelled back.

“You will get yourself killed Karu and your father will not get over that! Why are you here?” I demanded in an angry tone.

“Father was going to Iwaki and I wanted to help.” He said dejectedly.

“You deserve your ass beat for disobeying your sire!” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Again Lady Asuna you are not my mother!” he snapped.

I lost my temper with the boy and grabbed him and bent at the knee and he went over it. I slapped his backside as hard as I could several times and Kouga snorted. Karu cried out and I hauled him up.

“Prince Kouga meet up with Wataru. He is heading north from Edo.” I commanded.

“Hai Lady Asuna. Thank you for giving me a good laugh.” He snorted walking away followed by the ookami.

I looked at Karu and tears pricked his eyes. He was humiliated and he needed to be. I sensed Ishin and I ported Karu and me to the tsuchigumo lord. Our battles were always interrupted it seemed by the boy. Ishin looked more than shocked and I released Karu.

“I know not how he gets away from his caregivers but I did beat his ass. You are old enough to obey your father Karu!” I snapped at him.

“You are not my mother!” he snapped again.

I had hurt his pride and he tried to take off but Ishin grabbed him by the haori. Ishin was speechless and I continued to glare at the tsuchigumo youth.

“I may not be your mother but I have sworn to look out for your hot head. I catch you again and I will take you to the West and lock you away so you cannot escape!” I threatened.

Tears actually slipped from his eyes and Ishin was dumbfounded I could tell.

“Nobu! Take my son to Vietnam and get the widows to keep him.” Ishin finally said.

“Hai my Lord.” Nobu bowed.

Nobu grabbed Karu and produced a shoki cloud and disappeared. Ishin stared at me and I prepared to port away.

“What happened.” He asked softly.

“A rather large group of ookami had surrounded him. He took one out I gather and it pissed the leader off. Get enough ookami together and they can pretty much take down anything.” I explained.

“I had put him under guard!” he snapped all of a sudden.

“I am sorry I raised my hand to him but he puts his life in danger not fully appreciating the consequences.” I said bluntly.

“So you are working with the ookami?” he asked narrowing his eyes.

“Hai. They are canid. I find them barbaric but we do have an alliance with them.” I admitted.

“Stay out of this.” He hissed.

“I cannot. I honor my treaties. It seems I will face you.” I said bowing.

“You intend to fight?” he asked surprised.

“Hai I do. This is the strangest situation to date but it is what it is.” I said dispassionately.

Ishin looked away and then looked back at me in anger. I raised my brow at his display.

“I suppose you shall see how much of a fucking coward I am.” I said condescendingly.

“I referred to your manner of dealing with emotional situations Asuna.” He said in a rather nasty tone.

“Whatever.” I said bowing.

“You intend to fight?” he asked again furiously.

“I have to. I can respect you and even care for you but I have a duty to my family and my sire has commanded me to lead this battle. I fight because it is what I do.” I said tonelessly.

I ported away and went back to my uncle who looked more than confused. I sighed as I sat beneath a tree.

“What the hell happened?” he asked.

“Kouga had trapped a tsuchigumo boy named Karu. He is Ishin's son and I took him back to his father.” I muttered closing my eyes.

“How well you know this guy?” Inuyasha asked.

“Too well. It will not stop me from honoring the treaty between the West and the ookami.” I said quietly.

“I am gonna be blunt Suna. Go talk to the spider and talk him down. Save the blood.” He suggested.

“What?” I asked sitting straight up.

“If ya can avoid blood shed than ya should. Go and talk to the eight legged bug.” He said flippantly.

“Fine!” I said standing.

I ported back to Ishin and he again looked surprised. I was annoyed but knew my uncle was right.

“Look what will it take to make you back off?” I asked bluntly.

“You now wish to avoid blood shed?” he asked coming closer.

“It makes sense. Answer the question.” I said looking at him.

“The ookami leave. They can inhabit their old dens in the north and pay fealty to the West for all I care.” He said crossing his arms.

“You intend to take the East!” I said in understanding.

“It is not my ancestral lands but I have built a power base here so hai I guess that is what I intend.” Ishin stated.

“Good Kamis Ishin you will face all manner of youki!” I snapped.

“That I believe is my business.” He said smirking.

“It is my business when you threaten Edo or any other alliance the West has.” I said in anger.

“Truly why should it matter what you think of my actions?” he sneered.

“Here we go again. You will get yourself killed Ishin.” I said in exasperation.

“You think so little of my military prowess.” He stated in annoyance.

“You are an idiot.” I said shaking my head.

“Just leave Asuna. You have made yourself more than clear on many levels.” He stated in a dark tone.

“Why did you push me? Why can you not just let things be as they are?” I asked him.

“I just stated the truth inu. I am no fool though as you are not mature enough to handle strong emotions.” He said taunting me.

I stared at him furiously and this had become personal again. He wanted more than I could give and I clenched my fists.

“Why do you fight yourself?” he demanded.

“Because you will get yourself killed and I cannot handle that!” I screamed at him.

I was stunned at my admission and so was he. I looked away from him and bit my lip forcefully. I tasted my own blood and looked at him. I knew I loved him and it warred with everything I knew to be right. I loved Naraku passionately and I betrayed him every time I even thought about Ishin.

“You are afraid I will die?” he asked surprised.

“Why not? You are hell bent on crazy courses and you are constantly injured. Why should I tie myself to you then watch you pass on to the Netherworld? Why should I wish for death myself when that happens?” I hissed.

His face softened and he took me into his arms. I fought his hold.

“I will not bond with you! I refuse and that is what you want. You will not make me feel that kind of pain again! I would rather be run through and my insides ripped out than face that manner of pain!” I yelled.

“You wish to keep me at arm's length? You are telepathic and it is not natural to be apart like this!” he stated firmly.

“I can live without it.” I snapped almost feral.

“You felt that inu's demise did you not?” he asked tightening his hold on me.

“Hai.” I stated in a wretched tone,

“You are joined with him are you not?” he demanded.

“Hai but I have learned to sequester him in my mind.” I said breathing harshly.

“Why do you do that?” he asked me in a rough tone.

“For privacy.” I snapped.

“You sequester yourself from Hisashi's soul. Kamis inu your behavior speaks volumes. You are bonded yet you refuse your own heart. You wish to continue to have meaningless rutting.” He demanded in anger.

“We have taken each other in during the act why cannot that be enough?” I asked him.

“I want more. I want more from you.” He stated flatly.

“I cannot give you that. I am sorry.” I said closing my eyes.

He was incensed and horridly jealous again. I had come here to try and talk him down. I tried to make myself calm down so I could try to finish the task.

“What does he do that earns your devotion?” he asked dangerously.

“It just happened Ishin. I cannot explain it. He has been there for the past five years; he has saved me from my enemies and from myself.” I said in a whisper.

“I will not accept this as just a casual relationship anymore inu.” He said holding me very tightly.

“Then there needs to be no relationship Ishin. I will not give up Naraku and if you kill him I would hate you.” I said bluntly.

He snarled fiercely and kept his hold on me. He was angrier than I had seen him. He had not said a word to Naraku on previous occasions; I knew he did not say anything because this had become more. He lowered his lips to my neck and began nipping my bare skin. I shuddered under his assault and he pressed my shields with his mind.

“Ishin no.” I moaned as he gently bit along my neck.

“Hai.” He growled softly.

He was pricking the skin but it did not hurt at all.

“You look beautiful you know.” He murmured in a rough voice.

“Thank you.” I moaned again.

“I will leave Iwaki but only if you leave with me.” He muttered.

“Huh?” I asked surprised.

“I will leave Iwaki if you come with me.” He said softly running his hands up and down my arms.

“Ishin, what are you playing at?” I demanded.

“Think of it as peace negotiations. Tell your sire and the stinking wolves that!” he replied smoothly.

“You are blackmailing me.” I said with narrowed eyes.

“I see it more as persuasion but if you choose to see it as such then go ahead.” He said chuckling.

“Damn you!” I snapped at him.

“What? Are you annoyed that you actually want to do it or because I have bested you?” he asked amused.

“Fine! Where am I to meet you then?” I said stomping my foot.

“Oh no. I said you come with me now.” He stated bluntly.

I glared at him and he went to a small chest and withdrew parchment and a quill. I grabbed it from him in a fury and quickly wrote my sire a letter. I handed him the parchment and he smirked.

“Did you really intend to take Iwaki?” I asked.

“No. I intended to draw you here.” He said candidly.

“You will try and take it if I do not comply.” I stated.

“You are such a clever onna.” He said smirking.

“You want a very public reason for me to be in your presence!” I accused him.

“Hai.” He said leaving for a moment.

He was giving my letter to a runner and Lord Ishin had outsmarted me. I watched him slowly walk back into the tent and I shook my head.

“Did you set me up with Karu?” I asked him.

“No. My son deserved what you gave him for my wrath would have been worse.” He said honestly.

“Hn.” I muttered.

“You say that when you are confounded. Did you see your aunt about your issue?” he asked suddenly.

“Hai but what does that matter?” I asked him confused.

He picked me up and brought me to the travel futon. His busied his hands with undoing the sapphire silk.

“Because I am going to make love to you right now.” He murmured in my ear.

“Ishin.” I said in warning.

“We can argue later inu. I want your lovely legs wrapped around my waist and your beautiful mouth moaning my name.” he said in a very husky voice.

I lost my resolve and completely surrendered to him for the moment.

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Augusta paced back and forth in her mate's study. The letter was obviously written in haste as the kanji was messy. Sesshomaru looked at Augusta and wondered at her concern. It was better to deal with the tsuchigumo then fight him as far as he was concerned because the creature hated Naraku.

“If she does not surface in a day or two Augusta then we shall be concerned. I rather like the tsuchigumo lord and his hatred of Naraku.” Sesshomaru stated leaning back.

“Hai we all know how you feel about the dark one but you could try just a little harder my love.” She said exasperated.

“Well I have fought this Ishin and he is honorable.” He said eyeing his mate.

She was being stared as if she was prey and she looked at her mate and rolled her eyes. She had been dressing more and more in hanfu as she found them more flowing than a kimono. She had stocked Asuna's armoire with them as well. A lot of them were off the shoulder and more open around the throat. Her mate had been rather amorous of late and blamed it on her attire.

“Sesshomaru my love! Can you look at my eyes when you speak?” she asked him amused.

“You insist on wearing those silks and I cannot help it if you look good enough to eat.” He stated in a rather licentious tone.

She starting undoing her hanfu and slipped it off. She sat on his desk and he growled rather loudly.

“Have a conversation with me now. You cannot blame my clothing.” She said smirking.

“Augusta!” he hissed softly.

“Well. You stated I looked good enough to eat. Now the clothing is off and you can converse with sense correct?” she said innocently.

His mate's audacity never ceased to amaze him and he looked up at her rather mischievous eyes. Two could play this game he decided. He decided to ignore her state of undress.

“Look at the situation clearly Augusta; we avoid spilling blood and we get concessions from the tsuchigumo. If he cares for Asuna then he may draw her away from Naraku. I see that as a good thing.” He said staring at her eyes.

He watched as she trailed fingers down her stomach to the apex of her thighs. Kamis she was a tart. He continued to ignore her and she looked at him thoughtfully.

“Well, I just do not want to see her hurt is all. Politics can be damned Sesshomaru, she thinks with her heart more than she should.” She replied.

His breathing increased slightly as Augusta dipped her fingers into her sex. He was almost squirming but he kept his face straight.

“Hai I know. Like I said I cannot find fault with the tsuchigumo except with his brazenness. He seems more than honorable. I swear if you continue to pleasure yourself then I am going to punish you.” He said thickly.

“How?” she asked in a passionate tone.

“Port us somewhere and find out.” He said standing.

Augusta laughed with mirth and she had gotten to him. She took his hand and bit into his wrist. He closed his amber eyes and he moaned. She smiled up at him wantonly and there came a knock on the shoji door. The Western Lord growled in supreme annoyance and his delicious mate ported herself and her clothes away.

“Come.” He called.

Baku entered and bowed to his lord. Sesshomaru nodded to him and the young inu straightened.

“Geming has written that Shanghai was attacked but they withstood the forces my Lord but the Ming was aided this time by gibbon youki.” Baku said.

“Gibbon? A damn ape youki?” Sesshomaru said in disbelief.

“Hai my Lord. I have never seen one but rumor is they are quick more so than an inu.” He stated.

“Most strange.” He commented.

“Lady Asuna is where my Lord?” Baku asked.

“Negotiating peace with the tsuchigumo for Iwaki. I shall send for her directly.” The Western Lord stated.

“Hai my Lord.” Baku bowed.

“She is in Sendai I believe. Have Youshiro port you.” He commanded.

“Hai my Lord.” Baku bowed again.

Baku went back to the southern palace complex and found Prince Youshiro. He was sparring another soldier and Baku nodded to him. He trotted over to him and bowed.

“Hai General?” he asked.

“Your father sends us to retrieve Lady Asuna.” Baku stated.

“Where is she?” Youshiro asked.

“Sendai. She is suing the tsuchigumo for peace in Iwaki.” Baku answered.

Youshiro wisely kept his mouth shut and put a hand on the new General's arm. He pictured Sendai and ported them there immediately. They were immediately surrounded by tsuchigumo and Youshiro growled rather loudly.

“What do you two inu want?” a female warrior said narrowing her black eyes.

“My sister is here talking crap with your head bug.” Youshiro snapped.

“Prince Youshiro step down.” Baku commanded.

Youshiro growled again and Baku bowed to the tsuchigumo.

“Lady Asuna is needed on the mainland as her city was attacked. Her Lord and sire has sent us to retrieve her.” Baku stated more formally.

“You may enter but dog boy here has to stay.” She said smirking in malice.

`”Alright.” Baku agreed.

“General Baku?” Youshiro asked stunned.

“Hush young prince.” Baku snapped.

“Baku is your name? You have incredible eyes inu.” The female said,

“Thank you. Could you take me to Lady Asuna?” he asked.

“Hai did not realize inu came in so many different colors.” She said leading him through the gate.

“We are like many species mam. We have different breeds so to speak.” Baku said thoughtfully.

“I am Aya.” She said smirking.

“It is good to meet you Aya.” He said nodding his head.

She looked over the golden haired inu and had to stop herself from salivating. It was rumored that Lord Ishin had taken the inu princess into his bed. She could ask her brother Nobu but she doubted he would tell her. Ishin was very private and expected those that served to have discretion. She looked over the inu general again and licked her lips unconsciously. He blinked his magnificent eyes at her and she smirked again.

“Wait here.” She stated as she entered an ante chamber.

Several minutes passed and the tsuchigumo lord appeared. He did not look pleased and he looked at the inu general.

“Lord Sesshomaru sent you?” he demanded.

“Hai.” Baku bowed.

“Which city was attacked and was it the Ming?” he asked bluntly.

“Shanghai and hai Lord Ishin.” Baku answered.

Baku saw Lady Asuna in the doorway and Ishin looked over at her. The arachnid's eyes softened when he saw her and Baku realized that he was enamored with his lady and commander. Baku looked down and wondered what was going on.

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I had heard what had happened and I went and grabbed my fang and slipped it into my obi. I was in a brown haori and hakamas of Ishin's that he had altered for me. Things had been heated and passionate the two days I had been here and I walked back into the antechamber.

“General Baku we leave now.” I stated.

“Aya, gather our defenses we aid the inu in this venture.” Ishin stated suddenly.

“My lord?” the female known as Aya asked surprised.

“Gather our forces.” He repeated.

“Ishin?” I asked stunned.

“Let Naraku stew on that!” he snapped and walked past me.

“Ishin!” I yelled following him.

“What Asuna?” he spun and stared at me.

“I do not need your help.” I said bluntly.

“You have it none the less.” He smirked.

“I do not understand what is going through your head.” I said shaking mine.

“You still deny this. You deny us.” He hissed.

“Now is not the time to throw a temper tantrum.” I said in a temper.

“I am not having a temper tantrum, Karu throws them from time to time but I assure you I do not.” He said in a defensive tone.

“Whatever! I have to go to Shanghai. Do as you wish.” I said in a perturbed tone.

“I intended to.” He retorted.

I quit his chambers and grabbed Baku's arm on the way out. I walked straight to the gate and I saw my younger brother pacing. I grabbed him as well and ported us to the West. I walked away from them and straight to my sire's study. I knocked and he called to enter. I walked in and bowed. He nodded and sat.

“Did you get anywhere with this Lord Ishin?” he asked.

“Hai. He threatened Iwaki to draw me out. He is trying to provoke Naraku again.” I said candidly.

“Interesting.” He remarked raising a brow.

“Father he is crafty like any tsuchigumo if not more so. He is almost a thousand summers and he is rather good with a katana.” I said leaning back.

“He backed away from me when I went to fight him.” He stated in surprise.

“He has stated quite publicly that he will not fight a member of this family.” I said sheepishly.

“Why is that Daughter?” he asked arching a brow.

“I have kept his son Karu out of danger. You remember the young funnel web that I imprisoned here? He is hot headed and does without thinking. Ishin thinks he owes me a debt.” I said turning red.

“He is honorable.” My sire stated.

“Hai.” I murmured.

“Hn.” He muttered.

“He has stated he is helping me in Shanghai as I aided Karu again when Kouga had him surrounded in the forest outside of Iwaki.” I continued.

“Who watches the boy? Where is his mother?” he asked curiously.

“He eludes his caregivers to follow after his chichi and his mother Akane was killed about a year after his birth.” I explained.

“This Lord Ishin needs to give the boy punishment.” My sire muttered.

“I kind of did that. I spanked him in front of the wolves to shame him in his actions.” I said softly.

“He needed it apparently.” My father said.

“I am going to go to Shanghai and I am calling upon Chen.” I said bowing.

“How are our Byakko allies?” he asked.

“Lord Chen is expecting another cub with his chief mate Meifen.” I said.

“He seems a bit too familiar with your mother.” He stated bluntly.

“She attacked him my lord. He said something rather rude to her and she felled him. Since that occasion he has been rather staid around her.” I modified the truth.

“She did that?” he chuckled.

“Hai. She actually humiliated him in front of his court. He does mess with her so to speak.” I said smirking.

“Hn.” He muttered.

I could see he was amused and I bowed to him. I ported to Hunan and went in search of my father in law. He was in his den and I knocked on the door. He called out and I entered. I bowed and his brow was raised.

“Shanghai was attacked Lord Chen. I was hoping that the Byakko would aid the city.” I said/

“Of course we will on several levels.” He said standing.

“Thank you. I am changing my clothes and then I head back to Shanghai. Zihao will be okay with Lady Meifen and Lady Lihua?” I asked.

“Of course.” He said smiling.

“Alright.” I said leaving the den and went to Quon's chambers.

My Byakko was not around and I stripped quickly and went to the closets that held my clothing. I went through the silks and found a snug fitting black haori and matching hakamas. I put them on and tied the obi around my waist. I slipped my fang in and I was ready. I ported to Shanghai and went in search of Geming. The red inu still got on my nerves terribly. He still flirted shamelessly but was really very good at war. I could see why Takes had him around on that account. I found him directing the troops and he turned when he felt my aura. A very lecherous grin played upon his lips and I automatically smacked his mouth. He still smirked and followed me.

“I see you got my letter.” He remarked.

“Hai Geming I did. The Byakko will be here soon and Lord Ishin.” I stated.

“Lord who?” he asked me impertinently.

“Lord Ishin of the tsuchigumo of Japan, Korea, and Vietnam.” I said rolling my eyes.

“Last I heard they were our enemies.” He stated in disbelief.

“In this venture they are not. You will treat their warriors with respect and maybe they may stay allies.” I said bluntly.

“As you wish my Lady.” He said bowing with a flourish.
”One day your damn attitude will get you in trouble Geming; your redeeming quality is that you are a brilliant general.” I said with disdain.

“Not brilliant enough to led the West's armies.” He said.

“I actually wanted you in Yuudai's post but my sire felt the men would respond better to one from our homeland.” I said sighing.

“I never said how sorry I was at your mate's passing; he was a brilliant leader.” He admitted

I was more than shocked at the admission and just stared at him. He grinned again and I rolled my eyes. Geming reminded me of the stories of the mortal houshi named Miroku. My aunt had stated his hands wandered frequently. I would have just broken said hands but that was me. I nodded to him and walked to my study. Most tsuchigumo could port via their shoki clouds so I knew Ishin would be here soon. He had been inside my Shanghai palace a few times. I hoped he could curtail young Karu because I would carry out my threat and confine him in the West. The boy had grown on me and I did rather look on him as a ward. He needed a mother just as much as Ang Chi still did. I was musing things when Zhou brought in Ishin. She looked rather nervous after last time and I nodded to her. The pups were not here and I was relieved.

“These gibbons are a rather fierce lot Asuna.” Ishin stated sitting.

I nodded to him and noticed how easy we were in each other's company. I sighed as I realized he would continue to push me and I would continue to run away.

“I am thinking that I could keep Karu in the West for awhile. The inu have ways of making pups mind. Would you allow that?” I asked.

“Hai. Would Naraku find out that he was there?” he asked me.

“No. My mother has more psi abilities than either of us combined.” I stated.

“Than Karu can stay at the Western Palace.” He nodded.

“I shall see to it shortly. You really did not need to assist me Ishin.” I said staring him down.

“Well I can keep an eye on you this way. You will not run away from a true battle.” He replied.

I stood abruptly and went on looked at him. He was smug at the moment and it unnerved me.

“Can you bring Karu here?” I asked.

“Hai. Promise not to run?” he teased.

“Just go!” I snapped.

He chuckled and produced his shoki cloud and ported to get Karu. He reappeared a few minutes later and Karu looked furious.

“Come youngling.” I said grabbing his elbow.

I ported us to the West and went to my mother's study. Karu was growling and I shushed him.

“Mother this is Karu; he is Lord Ishin's son and he is going to be a guest of the West for a little while because he cannot obey his sire.” I said staring at the tsuchigumo youth.

“Welcome Karu. You will not escape here my dear.” She smiles gently.

“Why is my father allowing this?” Karu asked.

“Because he insists that you live despite your best efforts.” I retorted.

“This is not fair!” he cried.

“Life is not fair young Karu. I assure you that my mother is quite talented at sheltering wayward youths.” I replied.

My mother smiled at Karu and he looked away. I understood his desire to stand by his sire but he simply was too young.

“Behave Karu.” I commanded.

“Go to hell Lady Asuna. My father may love but I do not have you!” he hissed.

“Of course you do not and I do not want nor need it. Your sire makes his own decisions.” I said bluntly.

I bowed to him and ported back to Shanghai. Ishin stood when he saw me and he looked concerned.

“Your son is furious with me and you but he will live.” I said.

“I hate to do this to him but he seems to have his mother's ability to mesmerize. Nobu said he tried to use it on him. I had never figured out how he got away.” He said looking grim.

“Mesmerizing is a rare talent among any youki.” I said impressed.

“Akane managed to get her way quite a bit.” He said remembering fondly.

“Well now Karu is safe. I am leaving now and I care not what you do.” I said walking past him.

“What is with you Asuna?” he demanded grabbing me.

“Unhand me Ishin. I have issues afoot and I do not have time for this.” I growled loudly.

“You get cold almost every time I mention Akane.” He accused.

“I said unhand me funnel web.” I growled again.

“Excuse me?” he asked in anger.

“UNHAND ME!” I screamed.

He let go of me and I walked on. He was right and I grew frigid when he mentioned her. His memories and thoughts of her were so beautiful and I felt ashamed and dirty in comparison. I knew I could not and I would not live up to her example. I was shielded so tightly I would have heard no one's thoughts. I felt Naraku tickling my senses and I panicked.

-What? - I pathed to him.

-Why are you upset? - He demanded.

-Shanghai has been attacked. I am just frustrated is all? - I thought.

-I will come. - He pathed.
-Please not right now. Ishin was making moves in Iwaki. Could you stay there for now? - I pathed in return.

-Bastard is moving is he? - He snarled in my head.

-Hai- I answered.

-Alright. Let me know what you need. - He said then withdrew from my mind.

Tears pricked my eyes and I knew Ishin was behind me. I had outright lied to Naraku to protect Ishin. I slammed my fist through a pillar and bloodied my hand.

“What in Kamis name is going on?” he demanded.

“Messing up my happiness for you!” I said in a fury.

“What is that supposed to mean?” he hissed.

“I just lied to Naraku. I told him to stay away and run down rumors of you in Iwaki. I hate myself right now and I hate that I will never be as good as Akane. That is why I become so cold.” I admitted.

“I have said I do not compare you to her! You look nothing like her, you resemble her in no way!” he stated surprised.

“Ishin stop! I swear you were mated to a saint of a youki. How can you love anyone that much again? Why would you even try?” I yelled.

“Inu your general's death has affected your confidence.” He said bluntly.

“Do not mention Yuudai.” I snarled.

“You would try the patience of saint!” he stated.

“How could I she is dead!” I sneered.

“You go too far Asuna. Insult me but do not dare insult Akane's memory!” he said in a very frigid tone.

I looked away and the marched. I knew that I was being an asinine bitch but if it made Ishin so mad that he thought twice then so be it. He was supremely furious again and did not follow. I managed it out of the palace and into the forest. Kamis, I was acting like such a simpering fool. I cried on a whim nowadays and it infuriated me. I had mentioned to Akemi before of joining a monastery and I began to honestly think it would do me good. I was leaning against a tree and wiping away the Kamis damned tears that kept falling. I sensed several auras and I turned quickly. I was pinned to the tree by what could only be described as an ape or something similar.

“What the hell?” I hissed.

“Pretty close dog.” It hissed.

“You are on my lands!” I snarled.

“Well then you are the head dog eh? Well our leader will love to meet you!” the creature chuckled.

“Who is your leader?” I demanded.

“Lei Jing bitch. Seems you have his nephew and you murdered his sister.” It cackled.

My eyes widened and my Dakkasou seeped to the tips of my claws and I slashed out. I caught the ape in the face and it screamed.

-Ishin! - I screamed in his mind.

-Asuna? - He thought back.

I had to duck a spiked weapon that nearly took off my head. I was dodging the ape creature but he moved faster than I did. A spear was thrust through the right side of my chest and I looked down and it looked like glass. I gasped in horrid pain. I looked up and saw a male with eyes as black as any dank hole. His hair was so black it had a blue sheen to it. His skin was horribly pale and he had a very menacing aura.

“So you are the murdering little whore who killed my sister.” He said in a rather ethereal voice,

“Fuck you!” I hissed.

“Very not interested. My tastes run a little more to the male side.” He smirked.

“You are disgusting.” I hissed again.

“You are a horrid wretch.” He sneered.

I felt Ishin all of sudden and he shattered the spear and Lei Jing shrieked. Ishin had a large fan shaped blade that he wielded. I was holding in my breath; I knew I had a hole in me and blood soaked my haori. Ishin was circling Jing who looked at the tsuchigumo lord with interest and lust. I grew angry at his perusal of my lover and I weakly pulled my fang.

“Well you are just too magnificent.” Jing stated with a smirk.

“Excuse me?” Ishin asked in disgust.

“You are defeated Netherworld scum!” I roared.

“Am I? Well you are the one that has a giant hole in you. Bai told me she killed your puppy that way. Where is my nephew whore?” he asked in an amused tone.

“Fuck you!” I cursed again.

“I told you not interested but if spider boy here were to grace my bed then I would just have to let him.” Jing leered at Ishin.

Ishin blanched and swung the huge blade at Jing and actually cut into the creature's arm. He hissed in pain but dipped his fingers in his blood; he tasted it and grinned at Ishin.

“Gods you are magnificent. I had no idea the arachnids could be so…delicious looking.” He stated in obvious lust.

I wanted to vomit and it appeared that Ishin wanted to as well.

“Till next time. I want my nephew whore and I will have him.” He said with confidence.

Ishin looked at me and the blade disappeared into his shoki. I was faint but I stared in horror at what just happened.

“That creature is disgusting!” Ishin snapped.

“Hai and he wants my son.” I said in disbelief.

“Inu you are bleeding out.” Ishin pointed out.

“Oh? Okay I think I need Nobu or Yasu.” I said leaning against him.

He took me into his arms and I did not pass out but I was close. He ported me to the West after dipping into my mind. He looked around and a soldier saw me in the arms of a tsuchigumo.

“Where is your healer inu?” Ishin asked.

“This way. My Lady?” he asked.

“Could you tell Lord Sesshomaru I am home and I have seen the youki that is aiding the Ming? Where is my oldest son?” I asked in a tired voice.

“He is here my Lady.” The soldier bowed.

“Get Ang Chi and tell him to hurry.” I said closing my eyes.

“Hai my Lady!” he bowed and took off.

Ishin looked down at me and shook me gently.

“Stay awake damn you!” he hissed.

“Ishin I am sleepy. I need you back in Shanghai it seems.” I said sleepily.

“Not until I see you better Asuna. I do not even give a fig if Naraku sees me right now.” He stated flatly.

Yasu came running and took me from Ishin's arms. He looked downright furious and growled.

“Damn fool girl what the hell have you done now to yourself?” he snapped.

“Shut up old man.” I snapped back.

“Damn fool going getting yourself impaled AGAIN. Who the hell are you?” he demanded of Ishin.

“Lord Ishin inu.” He said with narrowed.

“Damn idiototic tsuchigumo. Get the hell out of my way.” Yasu snapped.

I saw my father and mother coming. Karu was in tow and he looked happy to see his sire. My father was surprised to Ishin and my mother perused him carefully. Karu went to his sire and Ishin hugged him.

“What happened?” my father demanded.

“Jing. His name is Lei Jing.” I breathed.

“Lord Sesshomaru can this not wait? Your daughter has lost about a good pint of blood. Boy you would talk an enemy to death.” Yasu snapped.

“Old man!” my father growled.

“Shut your trap Sesshomaru; I slapped your ass when you were born and the same with the Taisho. Damn fool pups!” Yasu grumbled walking away with me.

“How old is that inu?” Ishin asked.

“Over two thousand summers. If he was not a member of the family he would have been killed long before.” Sesshomaru stated in a cold tone.

“Karu you will stay here. I am going to gather information on this creature.” Ishin said.

“Father please!” Karu whined.

“What did I say? You disobey me again and I will be the one to administer your punishment not Lady Asuna.” Lord Ishin said in a nasty tone.

“Hai my Lord.” Karu snapped.

“Lord Sesshomaru it is my honor to see you.” Ishin bowed.

He nodded to the Western Lady and produced a shoki cloud ported away.

“Interesting creature.” Sesshomaru observed.

“My sire is a great warrior!” Karu snapped.

“Hush young Karu. Your father is renowned I assure you.” Augusta said putting a hand on the young tsuchigumo's shoulder.

Karu looked at the uppyr female and was very calm around her. She was soothing and he liked her.

“Is Mizuki here or is she with the traitor?” Karu asked.

“Traitor?” the Western Lord asked raising a brow.

“Naraku.” Karu stated as if the name were dirty.

“Mizuki is here.” Augusta answered.

“May I see her?” Karu asked.

“Hai. Follow me.” Augusta said.

Sesshomaru eyed the boy and thoughts went through his head. The tsuchigumo lord was a fascinating creature and was such a wild card. He went to Asuna's chambers to find out details.

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Augusta showed Karu into the nursery of Asuna's pups. Mizuki was playing with Hana and she looked up and saw Karu.

“Karu! You come play with me?” she cried excitedly.

“Hai. My chichi sent me here. Your haha is mad at me.” Karu said sitting by her.

Mizuki squealed in delight and launched herself at the lad. Augusta watched amused at the obvious affection between the two. Mizuki sat in Karu's lap and Hana looked at him and then joined her sister.

“That is Hana. She is younger than Mizuki.” Augusta said.

“I big girl Obbasan!” Hana said stomping her foot.

“I know you are my dear. Such a sweet big girl.” Augusta said rubbing her cheek.

Karu looked intimidated and Augusta chuckled.

“They are tiny onna. I will send the boys in here as well. Have you met Nori?” Augusta asked.

“Briefly.” He answered.

Augusta went to an adjoining room and sent both sets of twins in. Nori and Ken'ichi were toddlers and they wobbled over to Karu. The lad blinked his obsidian eyes and Nori came and touched his face.

“Kumo?” Nori asked softly.

“Hai.” Karu answered in obvious delight.

Augusta smiled and Ang Chi poked his head in with a very worried expression.

“Someone said Mother was injured. Have you seen her Obbasan?” Ang Chi asked.

“Hai. She is in her chambers. She needed to see you anyway.” Augusta answered.

“Alright. I am headed there now.” Ang Chi bowed.

“She was impaled.” The Western Lady stated.

“What?” he asked with a scowl.

“Hai. Just warning you.” She stated softly.

He ran from the room and went to his adopted mother's chambers. She was laid out on her futon and he watched Yasu pack her wound. He scented the air and could not believe his senses. He went to her side and scented closer. She had blood on her that smelled like his birth mother but not. He shook his head and looked at his jii-chan.

“You scent correctly. Did you know your birth mother had a brother?” he asked.

“Lei? I never met him. They do not cohabitate like inu do jii-chan. They sort of wax and wane through the world.” He tried to explain.

“I am glad you show inu tendencies.” Sesshomaru stated bluntly.

“I never did seem to get her abilities. She said something about me being born to her in a shifted form. I guess that had something to do with it.” Ang Chi shrugged.

“Stupid bitch.” His jii-chan muttered.

Ang Chi grimaced. He could not believe his birth uncle had surfaced and had injured his mother! He was sick to his stomach and looked at Yasu.

“She will be fine young lord mind you not for lack of trying!” Yasu grumbled.

Ang Chi released his breath and nodded.

“We shall leave you two.” Sesshomaru stated firmly.

“Hai my lord.” Ang Chi bowed.

He watched Yasu and his jii-chan leave. He lay next to his mother just to be there in support. He adored her and would walk through hell if she asked. She had sheltered him and loved him after he had been so bereft and alone. He took her hand in his and squeezed it. He allowed a light sleep to take him.

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I woke up and I hurt like the seven hells. Ang Chi was next to me and I gently shook him awake. He woke up and sat up as well. I pulled myself up and grimaced.

“Shall I get Yasu?” he asked.

“To hear more of his bitching? No thank you. Your birth uncle is rather powerful and controls a group of ape like youki.” I said.

“Gibbons. They are the servants of the Jing.” He muttered.

“Do you know him?” I asked.

“No. She never dealt with family that I knew of.” He shrugged.

“He says he will have you.” I stated bluntly.

“Hell no! I do not want to be around them Mother.” He said widening his eyes.

“Like I would give you up to him? No but he is mad at me for killing your birth mother and he wants you. Did you know he liked males?” I asked.

“What? I mean I heard things but I did not believe them.” He shuddered.

“Another reason he will not lay a hand on you.” I said sneering.

Ang Chi blanched at the idea and looked away. He turned green and he jumped up and vomited in a chamber pot. I looked at him and he wiped the back of his mouth.

“I have no wish to know of what he does as I normally do not care what another does in their own time but not when they are lusting after what is mine.” I growled.

“Who was he lusting after?” Ang Chi asked.

“Lord Ishin.” I said.

“Oh I am sure that went over real well.” He said rolling his eyes.

“Hai. I did not know Ishin could produce his own yoki weapon. He was amazing.” I said in awe.

“I will make sure to stay here if you do not mind.” He shuddered.

“Not an issue.” I said softly.

He sighed and still looked ill. I motioned for him to help me up and he did. I winced but I was going to help Ishin. Ang Chi left the room and I grabbed my fang. I had on a dressing gown but I could change in Shanghai. I did not want Ishin anywhere near Lei. I could not believe I was jealous but I was. I ported away to Shanghai and went straight to my armoire. I pulled on a peach colored hanfu as it was the easiest to get on. I tied the narrow obi around my waist and hung my fang from my hip. I closed my eyes and felt Ishin through the blood tie. I found him and I ported to him. I looked up and there was a giant funnel shaped web. I knew Ishin was in his true form at the bottom of the funnel.

-Are you hunting? - I pathed.

-What the hell are you doing here? - He pathed back.

-Are you hunting? - I asked again in his mind.

-I was trying! - He hissed in thought.

-Can I come in? - I asked him sweetly in his head.

-Are you insane? - He pathed.

-I am climbing up; do you sense that? - I laughed in his thoughts,

A growl reverberated in my mind and he crawled out in his true form and pulled me in. He transformed and we were rather snug in his silken trap.

“You are mad for being here this soon after such a nasty injury.” He admonished me.

“I did not want you around that creature.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“You are jealous of him? May I remind you that I find your charms quite pleasing?” he asked lifting my chin.

“You are very strong in your true form.” I said changing the subject.

“I am also deadly. You are one of the few individuals who has walked up to a funnel web like this and survived you know.” He said softly.

“So you only wish to kill me in this form?” I asked him very sweetly.

“Somehow you always manage to interrupt my hunting. Do you wish to see me?” he demanded.

“Actually hai.” I said lifting my chin.

“Kamis but you are a strange onna.” He stated shaking his head.

“Who you supposedly love.” I retorted.

“I am not doing this now.” He growled.

“I did not know you could produce a yoki weapon?” I said changing the subject yet again.

“Hai. I use several weapons as your sire does.” He shrugged.

His hair was up as it was when he was not relaxing. I reached up and undid the leather lacing. It spilled down to the middle of his back. I ran my hands through it and he looked confused.

“You always do that.” He said annoyed.

“How did Akane like it?” I asked suddenly.

“I do not think she cared.” He remarked.

“I am inu remember. I like to touch and you have beautiful hair for a male. It reminds me of the silk surrounding your futon in Sendai.” I said stroking his mane gently.

We were in rather close quarters and the air changed. His look was heated but he held back. My eyes met his and I reached my hand up and traced his lower lip with my thumb. He was breathing deeply. I turned his head gently to the side and I found his jugular. I was going to give an inch and I sank my fangs into his neck but not too deeply.

“What is this?” he rasped.

I growled against his throat and let the rapture of my uppyr yoki flow. He seemed to fight it at first then moaned deeply. He was a very powerful and older taiyouki and my mother would have died to taste this blood. I pulled back and watched his eyes; I smirked as an almost unbearable heat coursed through him. I closed my eyes and let the yoki course.

“Asuna please release me.” He cried softly.

I released him from the pull and he shook to clear his head.

“Explain that.” He whispered hoarsely.

“Uppyr have mostly psi yoki in all forms. I guess since blood is the life force we can control responses through it. When an uppyr feeds they can make the experience as wonderful as coupling or as horrid as feeling as though your head is splitting.” I told him.

“Such creatures are too powerful.” He said softly.

“Supposedly that is why Vlad wanted to posses me in order to control and consume my yoki.” I said in a distant way.

“No wonder.” He said looking at me hard.

“I am leaving now.” I said angering at his statement.

“Damnit inu can you not slow down for a minute? I was not trying to insult you or hurt you. You on the other hand vacillate so horribly it is dizzying.” He growled softly.

“I have always made horrible errors in judgment when it comes to ANY tsuchigumo. I am not afraid of your kind and I have never been afraid of those who should naturally be my enemies. I would not fear you if you had me pinned to a tree fixing to inject me with your venom. Maybe I am cocky because I am immune to many toxins including yours. You do not frighten me in any way shape or form. I fear what you invoke in me and it is unacceptable.” I stated brashly.

“What do I invoke in you Asuna?” he asked raising a brow.

“Need. I can handle desire and passion but to need you? I get hurt when I need someone. You want and need me to do something I just cannot do anymore. Maybe I am cowardly but that kind of pain is crippling to me. I can face most physical injury but emotional and mental pain I cannot. You want me to embrace it again and I will not.” I said honestly to him.

“You know I have faced that pain as well.” He stated.

“How do you deal with it? You wish death for someone I love very much because your big brother was an idiot. You ask me to do something you will not do, so why should I?” I asked him arching a brow.

His jaw was set and I heard his teeth grinding. I had nailed him on this and he could not deny it. I looked away from him and sighed. There were so many emotional obstacles and he wished to gleefully plow through them. I also could not stop myself from comparing my actions and behaviors to his beloved Akane. He snarled in anger and we had come to an impasse again.

“You see there is no getting around certain things. I have taken up enough of your time and interrupted your hunt too many times as well.” I said tonelessly.

“You can be a heartless bitch when you choose to be. Individuals see my kind as hard hearted when I think it is the inu. Flee and be a coward; you are too much effort!” he said in a nasty tone.

I nodded and relief flooded me for the moment. I could handle this and knew if he backed off then I could as well. I ported out of his web and back to Shanghai. It still unnerved me the Lei Jing wanted him but he should not be my issue. I wondered what Lei would do if he saw Naraku. I shuddered at that thought because my mate was a work of art as was Ishin. I wondered what Gaku Jouichi looked like as I had not seen the beast in either Hisashi or Ishin's memory. He must have been a creature of incomparable beauty seeing as his sons were such enticing creatures. Ishin was right and Naraku acted very much like a tsuchigumo even though he was only part. I called on Zhou and she was surprised to see me.

“Can you help me bathe?” I asked.

“Hai my lady.” She said bowing.

I watched as she gathered my things and we walked to the river. Ishin was stubborn but I had managed to anger him beyond that stubbornness. I sank into the water and remembered being with Yuudai here for the first time. I had failed him as well. Another reason Ishin needed to get the hell away from me.

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I was in the Northern Castle but Naraku was busy elsewhere. I did not mind and went to our futon. I passed out and got some much needed sleep. I awoke to find Naraku next to me asleep and pressed close. I had new bandages on my arm and I watched him sleep out of the corner of my eye. His chest was bare and horrendous need ripped through me. The need I felt for him almost crippled me at times and nearly had in the past. I scooted a bit and rolled over silently. I maneuvered myself so that I easily wrapped my lips around one of his flat nipples. I tugged and bit at one mercilessly and he came awake instantly. He released a guttural moan and it spurred me on. I repeated my harsh treatment to the other and I felt his hand on the back of my head. I was actually getting into a blood lust and started nipping roughly at his sculpted chest and I moved down his torso.

“Asuna?” he asked me in a roughened voice.

“We need you.” I growled in a beastly tone.

He moaned again and I growled very loudly. I let loose my primitive self as it was safe with our mate. I moved back up his body and bit into his mating mark fiercely. His hands held the back of my head as I tasted him. This was right and it was what we needed. I pulled back and met his lips in a desperate haze. I was getting him in a dizzying need as well and his mouth attempted to dominate the battle of our lips and tongues. He pushed me onto my back forcefully and I suppressed the pain in my chest. He was eyeing me and his were blazing. I knew mine had turned as well. I was already naked and I was thrilled. I grabbed his hakamas and the silk ripped and shred against my claws. He wanted to tease me and touch me but my claws dug into his hips drawing blood. He understood what I wanted and pummeled me. I squeezed my eyes shut at the intense feeling and presence of our soul mate seated within us, I was making growling and snarling noises as Naraku thrust into me with force. I dug my claws into his back and he released a shout at the small pain. He pressed his forehead to mine and his breathing was quick and almost labored. I released my yoki and he panted under the pressure and he grinned wickedly as he crashed his against us, I met his harsh thrusts with my hips and I began tightening around him almost painfully. I was gasping to catch my breath and his suddenly became harsher. We were actually spiraling down together and my walls clenched him and I knew it was tight and torturing. He released violently and I crashed with him and I growled loudly. Naraku held my hips as his own claws gouged my flesh. I laid my head back and my body was covered in perspiration as was his. He tried to hold himself up but collapsed against me. I did not wince in pain and felt my walls clutching and releasing his staff in aftershocks. He pulled himself up and invaded my mouth with a slower and much more sensual kiss. I sighed into it and felt him move in me again but at a much more staid pace. I released such a soulful moan it seemed to startle him. I opened my eyes and met his mahogany gaze. I released another moan and he shut his eyes for a moment. I had no need to speak and neither did he. I surrendered to my mate totally at the moment and felt whole.

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I was brushing Naraku's long hair and his eyes were closed. He was in the hot spring and I was seated at the edge with legs dangling over the edge and my heels rested against his chest.

“You are enjoying this.” He accused me lightly.

“Hai. I will still say most onna would murder you for your hair.” I laughed lightly.

“How were injured?” he inquired.

“Bai gu Jing had a brother who apparently wants revenge. He said he wants Ang Chi as well. You will not be facing him.” I said in a growl.

“Why?” he demanded.

“Because I will not have him coveting what is mine.” I said bluntly.

“He is attracted to males?” he asked.

“Hai.” I muttered.

“My heart you would have to trust me when I say that I would decimate him before he laid a hand on me that way. I have what I want.” He purred.

“Hai I am glad. You are rather an entrancing creature and I fear he would find a way to posses you. No, I do not want you aiding me in this.” I said stubbornly.

He started laughing and I looked down at him in irritation. He found my protectiveness endearing but I knew him well enough to know he would do as he wished. I sighed but still ran the brush through his gorgeous hair. His hands were on my legs and I sighed in pleasure at his touch. I needed to get back to Shanghai but I really just wanted to stay here and touch him and be with him.

“What was earlier about my sweet? You rarely let loose your beast.” He asked.

“I was watching you sleep and my thoughts were turned towards our first time together.” I admitted.

“I see. Hai that was memorable.” He chuckled.

“Kamis, I had wanted to pummel you but you were just too addicting. You were so brazen the first time I saw you in person.” I said grinning wickedly.

“You were laying there and I had all manner of wicked and depraved thoughts. I wanted to make you scream at that moment.” He murmured.

“Hai. I love your hands Naraku. I love your touch. I love your stubborn, arrogant self. I watch you and I get weak in my knees.” I whispered in his ear.

“My love?” he asked me.

I pulled myself back and I sank into the water. I settled in his lap and I felt his member. I smirked at him and impaled myself as I settled into his lap.

“Kamis you are so tight right now.” He rasped.

I gave him a lazy and sensual smile as I flooded his mind with my own. I was bombarding him with every feeling I experienced at the moment. When this happened things normally got rather wild between us. I kept myself very controlled and focused though so his mind would be thrown into rapture before his body. I was vaguely aware that my wrist hurt intensely but I was more focused on this melding with my soul mate. I always kept a very small portion of myself to myself and Naraku understood that as he did the same. I hoped that my aunt's herbs did their job as I had been faithful with them. Mizuki and Nori had been conceived this way.

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

I was in Shanghai meeting with Quon, Chen, and Geming. My wrist was paining me constantly but I ignored it. We were cautiously sending out scouts to gather information inside of the Chinese Empire itself. We chose the best and frankly not the most honorable characters. I refused to have another creature succumb to a Jing if it was possible. My father in law looked beyond disgusted as well as Quon. I had explained in very great detail all that had happened during my encounters with Bai Jing.

“They could not possibly be Netherworld Gods. They must be a manner of youki and they perpetuate the myths that surround them.” Chen stated bluntly.

“They have immense power though Chen.” I pointed out.

“You have immense power.” He said to me.

I nodded and sat back. My joining with Naraku had healed my chest when he had forcefully pulled forth my yoki to do it. It was a painful process and I preferred to heal on my own. Quon was actually very concerned over this creature seeing as I had a hell of a time fighting its sister.

“Byakko sit please. That was several years ago and my yoki has grown since then. I was taken by surprise by the gibbons. I say we strike a very strategic blow to them in the heart of their homeland.” I said.

“That would be good but where are they from?” Quon asked.

“Unsure but we will find out. I want to wait till the weather turns for a major offensive.” I said raising my brows to them.

Quon and Chen looked at each other and smiled. If we could hold off till very cold weather then I handed the Byakko a major boon to their yoki. It was a little over two months till frost was due to hit and in the mean time I intended to fight dirty and with guerrilla tactics.

“So we are to take to the hills so to speak and pick them off.” Chen remarked.

“Hai.” I nodded.

“Well then I have the men to see to. I shall see you both soon in Hunan.” Chen bowed.

I inclined my head and he produced the shoki mist and disappeared. I stood up and Quon wrapped his arms around my waist. I laid my head back on his shoulder and closed my eyes.

“You are tired.” He murmured.

“Hai.” I muttered softly.

“The spies will return with information soon enough. I think you can afford a nap.” He whispered in my ear.

“Only if you will nap with me and you have to be naked.” I said with a lustful voice.

“I guess I will have to then. Only if you are the same way.” He purred.

I turned in his arms and quickly started undressing him as his own hands were busied with my own stays. We were on my futon in a matter of minutes and I enjoyed my Byakko mate. I was asleep in his arms barely covered by a coverlet when my wrist started throbbing horribly but with more intenseness. I began to think that Ishin was not angry but in danger. I quietly slipped from Quon and went to my armoire. I pulled out a hanfu that had been modified for battle and put it on. I tied the obi and slipped on my fang. I ran from my chambers and I sensed Ishin and ported to him. I appeared in the midst of a battle. I saw tsuchigumo all over and I looked around for their Lord. These were gibbons and I was furious. Ishin had stayed even though he was angry at me. I pulled my fang and I started attacking the apes with ferocity. I yelled duck in Japanese and the tsuchigumo moved. I released a huge amount of my toxin and it burned several gibbons. I was stabbed in the leg but I whirled and used the hilt of my fang and crushed his skull. I finally located Ishin and I about lost my stomach. He was ashen and had fallen. I ran to his side and sank to my knees. I hauled him into my lap to asses the damage. He was bad off and tears did start to fall.

“No! no, no, no Ishin! No!” I cried loudly.

A saw a gibbon out of the corner of my eye and I released my toxin as blades and sliced right through him. I saw the female funnel known as Aya and she looked angry.

“I am taking him to Nobu; where is he?” I asked.

“In Korea.” She said fighting a gibbon.

I leaned down and snarled into Ishin's ear.

“Do not dare die on me! Do you hear me? Do not!” I growled fiercely.

I ported us to the Korean Palace and I started screaming for Nobu with my voice and mind. He ran into Ishin's chamber quickly and I bit into my wrist brutally. I pressed my wrist to his mouth and Ishin's eyes opened but they were dull.

“No.” he croaked out.

“You take it! You hear me?” I hissed at him.

I squeezed my wrist so more blood came out. Ishin tried to not take it but I held his mouth open. Nobu waited for me and then began assessing the damage. Ishin had many wounds all over and he had a head wound.

“I can fix this inu. Let me take him.” Nobu said softly.

I let go of Ishin and I stared dumbly after them. I refused to leave his side and I grew furious with my pride.

“I will be back Nobu. I am finishing this battle.” I said hatefully.

“What are you going to do?” he asked.

“Unleash my fang.” I said coldly.

Nobu's eyes widened and I ported back to the battle. Many tsuchigumo had fallen and I yelled to Aya.

“Scatter your forces now!” I commanded.

She hesitated then nodded. She called out in a strange language and I arced my fang as soon as the arachnids scattered. I pulled on Naraku's yoki too and I let loose the surge. It rivaled Mount Fuji and the devastation went on. I went to my knees and I was drained. I slammed up every shield more than firmly but Naraku would know I was in battle. I only pulled on his power when I needed to. Aya came over as well as several tsuchigumo warriors.

“Lord Ishin should make it Nobu says.” I told her.

“You just decimated the entire countryside!” Aya said almost frightened.

“I do not do it often as it drains me for days.” I said breathing hard.

“What is that weapon?” she asked.

“It is called the Kumosaiga.” I whispered closing my eyes.

“Fang of the Spider?” she asked me.

“Hai.” I nodded.

She helped me up and I looked around. The amount of devastation meant that I had drained Naraku as well. I looked almost sheepish and stepped back.

“Do what you need to do. I have to check on things.” I said wearily.

I ported which was a stupid act but I appeared in the Northern Castle. Naraku looked at me and saw me bleeding.

“You are hurt!” he exclaimed.

“I will be fine. I need sleep.” I said crawling over to the futon.

“Why do you smell of tsuchigumo?” he asked.

“I have no idea.” I murmured.

He looked me over and I saw his exhaustion as well. Our soul bond tied our yoki together as well as the obvious. I tried to keep my eyes open but I did enough just to mask the scent of Ishin. Naraku managed to make it beside me and pass out as well.

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Aya had seen to the rest of the apes and she again shook her head at the devastation. The inu carried a yoki weapon that was named after her kind and she released so much yoki that nothing much had survived that had been in the way of the blast. She directed the warriors to head to Sendai and Korea. She herself went to Korea and her brother. She went to Ishin's chambers and saw Nobu wrapping the Lord in bandages.

“We won.” She said softly.

“The inu?” he asked.

“Oh she released a helluva a lot of power. She wiped out the battle and nearly collapsed.” Aya said quietly.

Ishin looked up and she had not noticed he was awake.

“My Lord?” she asked him.

“Where did she go?” he asked.

“I do not know my Lord. She was exhausted and said she did not do what she did often because of the drain.” Aya said.

“She channels other's yoki.” Ishin said in understanding.

“Is she the cause of the devastation at the foot of the sacred mount?” Aya asked.

“I believe that was her. That would mean she channeled that bastard Naraku. I had not realized she could channel him from afar.” Ishin said bitterly.

“My Lord?” Nobu asked.

“Nothing Nobu. Shall I live?” he asked changing the subject.

“Hai. Her blood has some healing properties it seems.” Nobu stated.

“Kamis I cannot believe she did that.” Ishin muttered.

“Ishin quit being a grump. You know we do liquefy the insides of our prey and suck it out you know.” Nobu said eyeing his Lord and friend.

“You do not have to make it sound so disgusting Nobu.” Ishin snapped.

“Well she did you a favor.” His healer said.

“My Lord how did she know?” Aya asked curiously.

“I could care less.” Ishin snapped again.

“Sorry Lord Ishin.” Aya said bowing.

She left quickly and Nobu stared at Ishin. He knew his friend loved the inu and was torn up with jealousy and hatred. He slapped his friend on the arm. Ishin glared at him and he leveled him a stare.

“She channeled Hisashi for you idiot. She did it to help you.” Nobu pointed out.

“I am going to rip the bastard from her somehow.” Ishin hissed.

“Carefully Ishin. You have been a patient creature all these years.” His healer stated.

“I know. I sense her some you know. I know when she goes to that castle. Kamis! I hate it!” he said in a fury.

“Calm yourself.” Nobu snapped.

Ishin growled and looked up. He had been furious with her and he could swear he sensed when she went to Naraku. He knew in his gut she had merged with him. He was sick with the idea and he wanted to yell and scream at her. She refused him the very thing she gave to that undeserving cur. His pulse was racing and he was furious. He hoped her mark burned like hell fire. He settled back and could not believe she had made him drink her blood. He had only ever taken blood from Akane during their own unions. He looked at Nobu and he struggled to rise.

“Ishin you are in no shape to be up.” Nobu admonished him.

“To hell with it.” Ishin rose anyway.

“You are an idiot.” His friend hissed at him.

“She is with him. She saved me and she goes to him.” He stated furiously.

“Ishin do you hear yourself? You are obsessed.” Nobu shook him.

“You are damn right. That inu has done nothing but make me want her since I saw her in Sapporo. She took me that time from Sendai. She healed my hand and the wound she gave me. Do you know exactly how she did it?” Ishin asked him.

“She pulled your own yoki forward.” Nobu shrugged.

“She kissed me than ran that tongue of hers over the wound.” He replied.

“Inu hold the antidote in their saliva.” Nobu nodded.

“Kamis you look at this with a healer's mind!” Ishin said aggravated.

“I am a healer.” He smirked.

“Have you ever just made love Nobu? I mean do you analyze the act?” Ishin asked narrowing his eyes.

“For your information I can think when I rut thank you.” Nobu stated.

“Oh my Kamis the poor onna who has you in bed.” Ishin shook his head.

Nobu actually grinned at his friend and Ishin growled. He was able to produce his shoki cloud and he disappeared, He heard Nobu yell at him but he was going to face her now. He stood outside the bastard's very superior barrier and he channeled his wrath. Her wrist should feel about ready to fall off; he did not wait long as she ported to his side and grabbed him. She ported him somewhere else and it was the West he realized.

“Are you out of your mind?” I demanded.

“Why did you save me?” he asked in a low tone.

“I could not let you fall to those creatures. You are better then they.” I shrugged.

“You were crying when you found me Asuna. Kamis just admit it!” he yelled at me.

“Admit what? You are too valuable to your people to fall.” I said evenly.

“Did you merge with him?” he demanded on a different topic.

“Why would I not? I am mated to him.” I said softly.

“You go and do the very thing I want from you the second you get away from me. Why is the idea so horrid to you?” he asked maddened.

“I told you that I am quite sure you will die. You have an amazing talent for courting death.” I retorted.

“Then if you are so sure that it will happen then why bother to save me?” he asked.

“I felt dread; I was scared.” I admitted.

“I see. Hateful bitch!” he sneered.

His words stung badly. He was still very much injured and pale to boot. I held his face between my palms and brought his lips to mine. I did not kiss him but wanted to. I loved him and I loathed telling him. I needed to let him go but I could not.

“I love you.” I said barely audible.

“Why has that been so hard to admit?” he demanded.

“Because you are a fool! Naraku would try and kill you the second he found out. This is wrong and we know it!” I hissed.

“Again you underestimate me. You have so little trust in anyone. Do you even trust him?” he taunted.

“Hai I do. He has proven himself many times over. You have assisted me tremendously as well.” I said looking away.

“Well obviously not enough. You will physically join with me without a thought and I actually beg for more and you run as fast as you can to do that with him. You know you love me but you refuse me. I am jealous of him and I do hate him. He has not earned or deserved your love or mind; yet you throw it at him. He did horribly wretched things in this life as much as his previous. He tried to destroy your family for power! He did the same as Hisashi too. I do not understand your devotion one bit!” he snarled.

“Shut up! When Akane returns and you know she will return where shall you be? Shall you be tied to someone inferior in your eyes? I reunited with him because I was supposed to just as you will with Akane.” I said enraged.

“She will not return.” He said softly.

“What?” I said confused.

“She did not want to. You had a choice and apparently you chose to return but Akane did not want that. Eternity scared her for some reason. You who fear so little made a choice that my own soul mate would not. She feared the unknown and you embrace it. I am drawn to you for so many reasons inu. I am not afraid either and I knew in Vietnam. You told me I felt whole and you were right. As long as this continued as meaningless sex then it was alright. You could not handle the idea that you may have been used for your body but what have you been doing with me?” he accused.

“I have been giving you as much as I can.” I whispered.

“I want more.” He stated.

“I cannot.” I said flatly.

He snarled in fury yet again and he pushed me back against a boulder. I had brought us to Shomyo Falls for the isolation. It did not help that it was incredibly beautiful. It was fall again and there were patches of burnt orange and yellows all around. His face grimaced in pain but it passed. I was concerned and I wondered if I could do what Shezmu had done for me. I lifted his wrist and bit in. He stared at me shocked and I concentrated on easing his pain. He looked astonished and I pulled away from his hand. The air changed frequently between us and there was the almost physical pull we experienced.

“Does it feel better?” I asked.

“Hai. How are you doing it?” he asked me.

“I am keeping you from feeling it.” I murmured.

“Asuna.” He whispered holding my face this time.

“Ishin stop. You may not feel the pain but you are injured.” I said against his mouth.

“I could not care less.” He said then pressed his lips against mine.

I untied his hair yet again and I crushed the silk like texture in my fingers. His lips found their way to my neck. He always nipped at my throat and it dawned on me he was fighting his own instincts. He sucked on my pulse point in a way that weakened my knees. I started moaning rather loudly and I arched my neck on my own instinct.

“Asuna stop that!” he whispered harshly.

“No. Please Ishin bite just a little harder.” I whined quietly.

My beast was pawing my mind and I tried to rein it in. Ishin pulled back a moment and stared at me curiously. I had actually gotten my primal self under much better control but the arguing had worn me down. I was staring at him with blazing eyes. He seemed surprised but I pulled his head down in another lip lock that was almost vicious in its intensity. He growled against my mouth for what I did not know but my true self was practically tearing my mind apart. I bit into Ishin's tongue to taste his crimson flow. He pulled back when he saw what was happening.

“Asuna pull yourself back.” He said softly.

“No!” I hissed.

He actually seemed concerned and we did not like that one bit. I moved behind him and scented him. He was not used to being prey and I smirked in riotous lust.

“You want us tsuchigumo?” I asked in my beast's voice.

“Asuna you have lost control; I do not want you like this. You are liable to do things you will regret.” He replied rationally.

“You want us?” I demanded.

“Hai I want you. I also wish to try and honor your wishes no matter how furious they make me.” He said again rationally.

I hissed at him and slapped him rather forcefully. He growled softly but it seemed he was trying to stay calm.

“Why have you lost control inu?” he asked me.

“Shut up!” I growled at him.

I wrapped my claws around his throat and he narrowed his eyes at me. I released his throat and ripped open the yukata he wore. I dragged my claws across his flat nubs of flesh and drew blood. He hissed at the pain and I licked up the thin trail of blood. I was losing my rational self totally and my beast would force his to the surface. I leaned forward and bit into his well sculpted chest and he seemed stunned, it was not painful but bordered on orgasmic. He pushed this and my beast was gleefully handing us to him. My claws dug into his side and he did cry out.

“You fight us. Naraku enjoys us.” I taunted him.

“You play dirty inu bitch!” he hissed.

“We are inu. Our other half is the uppyr; not freed very often you know.” I stated in a strange voice.

“No wonder. You are vicious!” he snapped.

“You claim to need us. You claim you want us but where do you hide your true self?” I asked in a condescending tone.

“What are you playing at inu?” he demanded.

We moved forward quickly and had him pinned to the boulder. We were giving into the overwhelming yearning for this male. We pulled him down into a gentler kiss and he groaned into it. We were so hot at the moment and we pulled back and stripped out of my night gown. His eyes were trying to change and he had said that tsuchigumo females were rather wicked in their pursuit of the males. We grabbed his cock firmly and we pressed my fangs to his throat; if he moved wrong then we would rip his throat out. We stroked him firmly and he released deep guttural moans. We released his throat for a moment and sucked on his pulse with abandon. We stroked his erection fervently and we were determined to make him climax. His own primal self had been stirred by our brazen treatment and his deep throaty moans had us near panting. We released his pulse point and watched him.

“Come for us tsuchigumo.” I stated in a low voice.

“Asuna. Kamis, not like this please.” He moaned.

“Hai. We want to taste you. You have denied us this; you had no idea what it is to be mated to an inu Ishin. We are possessive and dangerous creatures.” I purred in his ear.

“So close inu.” He muttered loudly.

We wrapped our other hand firmly around his testicles and rolled them between our fingers. His eyes widened and he seemed to fight off his own reactions.

“Did Akane do this?” I hissed in his ear.

“No.” he moaned.

We quickened my hand and his own pre-release aided me in pleasuring him. His breathing was severe and we watched him shut his eyes as his body stiffened. We felt his hot seed and we looked at him with intense hunger. Slowly we slid down his body and licked his cock clean and he was painfully stiff again in moments. Pleasure rippled through us at his salty essence. We made sure he watched us as we licked our hand clean of him.

“Asuna! Kamis let me in you now!” he demanded severely.

“Tell us how you want us.” I stated in a low growl.

He looked dumbfounded and a smirk played on our lips. We lay down on my back and brazenly opened my legs to him. This was rutting pure and simple and there were no major emotions in play at the moment. He practically pounced on us and slid into us in one motion. We whimpered as he filled us.

“Kamis!” We moaned.

He stayed there unmoving and we raised our head in disbelief. We snarled at him and he stared me down.

“I want you to come back to yourself Asuna. I am maintaining just a shred of control. I want to make love to you not fuck like mindless animals.” He stated in a deep voice.

We whimpered and shook our head. We tried to move but he pinned our hips. We snarled at him again and he shut his eyes and counted. He was loosing control of his own beast as well.

“Asuna! I do not beg onna but I am begging you. I want to see your beautiful eyes full of love and need for me.” He whispered fiercely.

We shut our eyes and shook our head trying to clear it.

“Ishin you are being cruel!” I hissed.

I looked at him and I had pulled back my true self some. It was there just waiting to pounce. I had not totally been released from its influence as it desired to climax quite badly. I felt it pacing my mind like a starved beast.

Ishin pulled back slowly and pushed back in as slowly. I cried out and looked at him helplessly.

“Why do you hold back? Kamis! I will beg! Lord Ishin damn it please!” I whined again.

“I desire to bring you to rapture several times. Be quiet.” He snapped softly.

I threw my head back and released another moan as he continued to slowly pull back and plunge in. I wrapped my legs around his hips tightly and he grunted. He had less freedom of movement. He managed to pull one leg free and I was furious and he eyed me wickedly. I gasped in anticipation and he moved his thumb to my clit and slowly massaged it. I moaned softly and I suddenly felt his claw prick the ultra sensitive flesh. It was not near my nub but the bundle of nerves itself. I released a deep, long moan and he touched my face. He thrust harder and my whole lower region was ablaze. I tried to keep my eyes open for him and our primal selves it seemed had calmed. I strained my neck and met his lips in a rather prolonged meeting of the responsive flesh. It was so full of promise and the dreaded need that I ran from like a mortal plague. Fear consumed me as the kissing took on desperate tones. He was supposed to be a dreaded enemy and not honorable. I jerked away from his mouth and gasped in air. I shut my eyes and surrendered everything I was. He would have to deal with the fall out I decided. I felt my body getting wound tighter with acute need. I was craving more and I began sucking on his pulse point and he released a very soft moan. I sucked harder and my beast was stirring again. I was itching to clamp down with tremendous force and make him scream. I assaulted and overwhelmed his telepathic senses and it was his turn to whine.

-You let go. - I pathed.

His eyes caught mine and something glorious passed between us in that moment. He slowed his thrusts but changed the intensity. He snapped his hips with tremendous force and I arched my body in response. His venom did wondrous things to my nub and it was throbbing intensely. I started mewling in response to the sharpness of his thrusts. He managed to somehow take one hard pink peak into his mouth. He was again holding back so that I would gain my pleasure. His tongue flicked the sensitive nubbin of flesh over and over. He began sucking on it and soft sighs of bliss passed my lips. I threaded my fingers through his hair and held the back of his head. He was making a soft moan against the softness of my breast and I cried out again. I needed to let go so badly that my head ached as well as my body. I could not take the intense tightness in my body and I touched his face and my yoki flared of its own accord. He groaned and began thrusting in me faster and I threw my head to the side. My eyes were blazing once again and I heard him holding back a guttural growl. He touched my lips with his fingers and his own power just seamlessly flowed between us. I sucked his fingers into my mouth and swirled my tongue around them. I was coming undone and my beast spurred me on. I met his relentless pummeling of my sheath and my soul. We had joined but not what he truly wanted, He did not expect it but I snarled ferociously and bit into his jugular as my climax ripped through me. I was physically shaking with powerful tremors of unbelievable rapture. I was clutching and releasing his member with my sheath as my first release was followed closely by another. I released his jugular and cried out. Ishin was mindless and finally allowed himself to succumb to my yoki. I kissed him again and he started growling forcefully and ripped his lips from mine. His eyes were completely red and he pushed my jaw to the side and sank his own fangs into my juncture. His powerful body shuddered as he held onto my throat and spilled not only his seed but his whole being. I arched my body to try and touch him everywhere. I felt him along every nerve and every inch; his cheek was pressed to mine.

“I love you.” He breathed against my cheek.

“As do I.” I said in a very small voice.

Feeling him like this shattered me. Tears stung my eyes and self hatred consumed me. I would die before I allowed Ishin away from me but I felt the same for Naraku and he knew it. He felt it at the moment. I did not even try to hard my thoughts and feelings and his eyes were unreadable. He withdrew from me and rolled onto his back. I reached my hand over and threaded it in his.

“You are angry with me.” I said softly.

“Your self condemnation is wonderful and all but could it not have waited?” he demanded.

“You wanted this Ishin. You are my dirty secret so to speak. You wished for this and now you get angry for my feelings?” I said sitting up.

“I did not remember how this felt.” He said shaking his head.

“Oh I remember. I am sure you learned how to sequester your mind?” I asked him.

“Hai.” He murmured.

“I suggest you do it. Do not dare get jealous of anything.” I said lying back staring at the sky.

“Kamis you are a bossy bitch!” he snapped.

I sat up and straddled his hips. I ground myself against him and he looked up at me.

“We have more problems than solutions Ishin.” I said growling softly.

I felt his desire flare again and I actually reveled in the feel of his mind. My eyes were closed in utter ecstasy and Ishin sucked in his breath. We had developed a deep connection and this was a pleasure to us both.

“Does this mean I can beat Karu whenever I want?” I teased.

“Hai just leave a little for me.” He joked in return.

I leaned down and kissed him deeply. Images of Jing ogling him flitted through my mind and I scowled. He looked at me as if I was mad. He sat up and pulled me to him.

“I shall leave things as they are for now.” He murmured.

“You and I are going to fight a lot.” I said bluntly.

“I was under the impression that we already did that quite a bit.” He murmured into my neck.

“Ishin things will not change.” I said softly.

“Things always change inu.” He said standing and staring at me softly.

He managed to close his yukata and I crawled over to my night gown and pulled it on. I scented strongly of him and I looked over my shoulder.

“I will not have Naraku coming after you for this. You will remove your mark.” I stated bluntly.

He growled softly but nodded. I allowed him to sink his claws around the fang scars. I put my hand on his arm and ported us to Korea. I helped him lay down and I went in search of Nobu. I found him in a sort of apothecary and he looked up. I pointed to my neck and he smirked.

“Sit down inu.” He smiled.

He put the vile venoms and toxins that would remove the scars on me. I wrinkled my nose and he laughed.

“Why are you not mated?” I asked.

“I love what I do. I love trying to fix and sew everything back together. Ningen are fun to doctor. They get sick and broken so easily. I find it a challenge to save patients. I love trying to find a new remedy out of a common thing.” He said as he worked.

“You are so handsome.” I said shaking my head.

“Ishin swears I am demented but I truly like saving different creatures.” He shrugged.

“Your sister is Aya?” I asked.

“Hai. She was the warrior. She leads our warriors. She said that there was a golden inu who had strange eyes.” Nobu said in conversation.

“Baku? He is my general.” I said surprised.

“She wants to get to know him. She said and I quote, he is simply the most divine creature the Kamis ever made.” He said in imitation of his sister.

I laughed loudly and smiled at Nobu. He was so very personable; much more so than Yasu. Of course Yasu was more than twice Nobu's age. He nodded to me and I stood.

“My Lord loved Akane very much but the way he looks at you is different.” Nobu said seriously.

“Akane is legendary in my mind now Nobu. He loved her passionately and fully. I can never be what she was.” I said sighing.

“She was tsuchigumo Lady Asuna and you are what you are. My lord never has been promiscuous. Most tsuchigumo are not that way anyway. Inu seem more amorous than we are.” He said winking at me.

“You are a flirt Nobu. Seriously find yourself a she spider or another onna to settle you down.” I said smiling.

“Ah well Ishin reminds me that I probably would turn a mate into a specimen.” He laughed.

I smiled at him again and walked out the door. I went back to Ishin's chambers and he slept. I saw my reflection in a looking glass and his marks were gone. It was what we had done during the act that melded us and not the marks. He still had left his venom mark on me and there was no ridding myself of that. He would be hurt if I shut him out so soon. I had learned that the tsuchigumo had a tendency for deeper emotional attachments than most youki. I understood why Ishin's father had killed his mother; he probably loved her obsessively and when she bedded the dragon he must have flown into a fury.

“Hai.” I heard softly from the futon.

“Are ookami tsuchigumo as monogamous as funnel webs?” I asked.

“No. In fact it is not the norm. My mother was beautiful. She was handsomer than Airi. My father did love her rather obsessively. He was also very dominant when the females of the ookami arachnids are the alphas. He could not reconcile her nature at all. They both were at fault for their problems. I swore I would never treat my mate as he had her.” He replied.

“Did he devour her?” I asked.

“No. He stabbed her to death in a fit of rage. I was there; he let the rumors fly because he was bitter.” He said closing his eyes.

“I see bits of memories that belonged to your brother.” I said sitting by him.

“You want the whole of the story? I mean the whole thing?” he asked in a pained voice.

“Can you share it?” I asked holding his face.

“I will.” He sighed.

“Whenever you are ready to start. I will lay here and just listen.” I said running my fingers through his hair.

“It all started before the One Great War.” He stated firmly.

“It all seems to stem from that horrid war.” I said bitterly.

“It really does.” He murmured.

“Start from the beginning.” I said softly.

“The beginning.” He muttered.