InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Lei Jing ( Chapter 57 )

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

 

The Tsuchigumo

 

Lei Jing laid upon his bed reading about the vile inu bitch. His sister had written several accounts of her encounters with the female inu. His sister had been a fool and had gone to Japan after the whore. No the inu whore would face him on his turf where his power was strongest. The tsuchigumo lord had managed to cut into his arm with his venomous blade. He laid back and it irked him that such a gorgeous creature as this Ishin should even like the whore. She was rumored to keep several lovers and if they all were just as delectable as the tsuchigumo then he decided he would just have to rid her bed of one or two of them. He sat up and thought more of spying on her family and acquaintances in Japan. Bai had been a fool to actually engage the whore on her own turf. He wondered if he would actually get to lay eyes on his nephew. He made up his mind and stood up to dress. The inu had the famed Naraku as a mate and a tiger as well. It was rumored that this Ishin and Naraku were brothers. He grew giddy at the idea of causing the bitch pain and retrieving his blood. He knew he could release the boy's latent wraith yoki. Bai had been such a demented fool not allowing the boy to know his family and his true heritage. It was also said that his nephew was exceptional in all things. He shuddered that Ang Chi was confined to live amongst inu. Lei ported to Honshu, Japan via his fog. He would be undetectable when he phased out. Barriers usually posed no issue for him either. He was most vulnerable in his humanoid form but that form was what brought his kind the most pleasure. They could not truly feel much in their other forms. He had picked the Western Palace first to try and catch a glimpse of Ang Chi. He moved without being seen but he had to avoid the uppyr bitch. They were the natural enemies of the wraiths. Lei moved carefully and did not sense the uppyr anywhere. He did however sense a faint wraith aura. He grew excited and followed the energy. He phased through a wall and saw what had to be his nephew. The young man sat with a small inu bitch in his lap playing with her. His hair was shiny black and his eyes were those of his wraith mother. He had markings of the inu as well but Lei found those pleasing. The boy looked up and Lei smirked. He must sense him.

“Who is there?” Ang Chi demanded.

“Chi? Hana here.” His sister stated.

“No sissy there is something here. Get out and go get jii-chan.” Ang Chi insisted.

Hana jumped up and ran her little legs off to get her grandsire. Ang Chi stood and pulled a katana from his hip. Lei watched amused and wished he could take the boy now but he needed to wait to heal. Ang Chi looked around and tried to scent him out. Moments later the Western Lord appeared with Hana,

“Ang Chi?” Sesshomaru asked.

“Jii-chan I swear to the Kamis that there is something here. I cannot explain it but it seems familiar.” Ang Chi stated.

“Hana go get your Obbasan now!” Sesshomaru commanded

“Hai!” she cried then ran from the room.

Lei scowled and decided to wait it out till the last minute. He came right behind Ang Chi and the youth nearly came out of skin. He whirled around and Lei smirked. The wraith felt the uppyr approach and phased out just before she appeared. Augusta ran in and looked at her mate and Ang Chi.

“What is wrong?” she asked.

“Obbasan I swear there was something here.” Ang Chi stated.

“Ang Chi was Bai gu Jing a wraith?” Augusta asked.

“A what?” he asked bewildered.

“You do not know what manner of youki your birth mother was?” Augusta asked softly.

“She never said and I never asked. She was gone a lot Obbasan. I learned to take care of myself from a pretty young age.” He muttered.

Augusta went to him and pulled him into a hug. She looked at Sesshomaru and whispered they had a problem. She pulled back and held his face and smiled.

“You feel it again you path to me alright? You may not hear me but I can hear you.” She commanded.

“Hai.” He nodded.

Hana wrapped her arms around her brother's legs and Sesshomaru and Augusta left. Augusta made a bee line for the main study. She had never met a wraith before but it made sense. Bai gu Jing had to have been one. She did not know much about them but Vlad had known. Vlad had waged war with a group from Central Asia nearly at the same time the One Great War was happening. Sesshomaru grabbed her and whirled her around.

“Augusta what is going on.” He stated.

“I never knew what Jing was Sesshomaru but it makes sense. Wraiths are not at all like normal youki. I do not know all about them but they are said to be able to phase in and out like a spirit except they are very real and dangerous.” She said almost frightened.

“Why are you afraid?” he asked.

“Because Vlad Tepest was afraid of them. I need to go to Walachia. I wonder if his library is still intact. Hell I may need to find other old ones.” She said shaking her head.

“Other uppyr?” he asked shocked.

“Hai. Uppyr are not afraid of much my love but these creatures are legendary. I had never met one so I never paid much attention.” She mumbled.

“Good Kamis!” he stated softly.

“Hai. Crap Sesshomaru that means Ang Chi has latent yoki he does not know how to tap. That boy is a powerful creature.” She said shaking her head.

“You need to go.” He stated flatly.

“Hai.” She said as she kissed him quickly.

She ported away and Sesshomaru sighed. It made him nervous that a group of youki could make creatures such as the uppyr afraid.

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Augusta was at her childhood home and knocked on the door. Anya answered and she really wished Viktor would get rid of her.

“Princess Augusta.” The old cow bowed.

“Anya.” She sighed.

“Your brother is in the sitting room. There are mortals here.” She said disdainfully.

“Well keep your fangs put away then.” Augusta snapped.

She entered the house and shook the snow off of her. She had not thought to dress differently but she looked decent. She was wearing a green and gold hanfu. The sleeves were long at least. Her hair was down except for a gold comb that swept her front part to the side. She went to the sitting room and saw Viktor laughing with other Russian nobles. He looked up immediately and grinned when he saw her. She moved into the room and bowed to all.

“Augusta! Everyone this is my twin sister Princess Augusta Elizaveta.” Viktor introduced her.

“Princess!” she heard from many.

“Hello.” She said with a small smile.

“Viktor the rumors said she was stunning but good God man!” a young man stated.

“Her portrait does her no justice.” Viktor said.

“Princess I am Grigory Vuselich.” The young noble said coming closer.

“Hello Prince Grigory.” She bowed.

He was uppyr she sensed and he was rather openly admiring her. She kept her attentions mostly on her brother and tried to ignore the young uppyr. He could barely be older than Asuna.

-Viktor I need to get into Vlad's castle. - She pathed to her brother.

Viktor nearly choked on the wine he was sipping when he stared at her. She nodded and he grabbed her and led her into the hall.

“Why would you need to go there? I mean seriously sister there are still a great deal of our kind that hate your daughter with a passion.” He said softly.

“Wraiths, what do you know about them?” she asked.

“You cannot be serious. Vlad killed most of those creatures off!” Viktor said stunned.

“Well it seems that Asuna has made an enemy of one.” She said bluntly.

“Is there not anyway you could make your daughter just stay at home?” he said shaking his head.

“She is too much like me Viktor. This is not her fault though, it is a long story but the female wraith attacked her first.” Augusta stated.

“I can get you in da but you better make it quick. You know Vlad did have a son.” Her twin said scowling.

“I heard that but I had never met him.” Augusta said shrugging.

“His name is Jarek and he really does not like your daughter.” Viktor said in a hushed voice.

“How old is Jarek Tepest?” she asked raising a brow.

“Six centuries Augusta. He is not terribly old but he is strong. The uppyr from Western and Central Europe are coming together under him. I think he fears Asuna but let us not tempt another enemy.” Viktor said bluntly.

“Get me in Viktor. Surely Vlad took enough time to write about the Wraith when he was not participating in orgies.” Augusta said disgusted.

“Da okay. The Vusulich are also a powerful family on our side. You should familiarize yourself with what is going on in your species Augusta.” He stated softly.

“Da okay I will.” She groused.

“How are your mate and the tiger?” he asked smiling.

“Sesshomaru is quite well. He knows everything now and he does not hate me for it. Chen is good as far as I know. I do not see him often on purpose but his chief mate is expecting another cub.” She said looking away.

“You love him!” Viktor said shocked.

“I do but I have been very good about trying to keep away from him.” She said candidly.

“How is your new son?” he asked.

“Good! His name is Katsurou.” Augusta smiled warmly.

“Lark is still angry at your mate for his treatment of you.” He stated honestly.

“She did not seem that way when she visited.” Augusta said surprised.

“Well she likes this Lord Chen more she told me. I know you will never abandon your mate again.” He said.

“I was bereft Viktor. Things were playing out badly and I could not seem to communicate with Sesshomaru. He gets so stubborn but I should have realized that he would never have seen through with the betrothal of Yoshiko and Ling Hu. Although I wonder now, Yoshiko speaks of her tiger constantly. She runs around saying that he is her very good friend. Chances are she will grow up and want him.” Augusta shrugged.

“The youngest son of your tiger?” Viktor asked.

“Da! You met him. He is really a sweet young man but I do get the impression he is already quite an attraction for many tigresses. Like I said there is nothing untoward but they have seen each other a few times now and Yoshiko just falls all over herself to be around him.” She smiled.

“Maybe her soul recognizes her future mate?” Viktor asked.

“Maybe so. It shall be her choice though and not because of a treaty. Asuna gave birth to a little boy she name Zihao. He seems to be showing the same tendencies of psi powers as Asuna. Your niece is a more powerful telepath than I am.” She said shaking her head.

“I do not believe that sister!” he laughed.

“Viktor she can astral project and coporealize as well.” She stated emphatically.

“I take it back. Good God she has more uppyr power than inu?” he asked.

“Oh no she shows all those as well. So far she is the only one of my children to show every single ability of both her sire and I and then some.” She said with a smile.

“Come back to the party for now then I will get you into the castle.” He said quietly.

She nodded and followed Viktor back in. She hated these dinner parties with a passion. Thoughts of Chen flitted through her mind. She had not been able to see him after the last time in Hunan. She would wait till later in the night and see him. She would go to the castle in the morning.

“Viktor let me pop home and tell Sesshomaru my plans so he does not worry.” She said softly.

“See you in a few then and get a cloak! It is cold here.” He said grinning.

She nodded and ported to her mate in their chambers. He looked up from the futon and raised a brow,

“I am going to Walachia in the morning. Viktor has some information and I am going to pour over the books in the library.” She said coming over to him.

He looked up at her and she kissed him rather passionately. He was taken back by her ardor and she pressed him back against the futon. She slowly pulled away from his lips and nearly groaned.

“You are so incredibly sexy you know.” She said moving her lips to his neck.

He closed his amber eyes and moaned as her lips moved along his flesh.

“You are going to leave me wanting.” He muttered.

“I want you to throw me down and take me roughly when I return. I want you to use your tongue along every inch of skin you can. I want to be hoarse from screaming your name.” she whispered in his ear.

“I shall endeavor to think of every wicked thing for your delicious body I can.” He said through gritted teeth.

“Dream of me.” She whispered with an evil grin.

He looked at her with his mouth in a grim line. He was not even close to being angry. He was very aroused and short separations made their lovemaking rather intense. He would not sleep she knew. She got up from the futon and went to her armoire and pulled out a slightly heavier hanfu in golden yellow. She also grabbed a fur lined cloak.

“It must have frozen over already.” He observed.

“Hai and I do not handle the cold as well as your succulent body.” She replied looking over her shoulder.

“Augusta go before I ravish you. You are trying to drive me to distraction.” He growled softly.

“I am. I cannot help it you are a kami and I am the luckiest girl on earth.” She grinned.

“I love you.” He said suddenly.

“I love you more.” She smiled.

He nodded to her and she ported away to Russia. She went to her old room and laid out her clothes. She ran back down the stairs to the dinner party. She entered and again Grigory Vuselich watched her. She went to the side board and poured a glass of red wine. The young male uppyr came up behind and touched her shoulder. She turned and nodded her head.

“Viktor says you are mated, that is the same as married?” he asked.

“Da. I am mated to a Japanese ruler. His name is Lord Sesshomaru and we have five children.” She said smiling.

“Da I believe I saw your eldest daughter in Moscow when she executed Stasio.” He said smirking.

“He deserved his fate.” Augusta said coldly.

“I do not dispute that Princess. In fact no one in this room ever liked your father and in fact hated him with a passion. It was a shame that Fillip was killed.” Grigory stated.

“He was good and kind. I am sorry I truly have no idea whom to call a friend amongst our kind. I have been in Japan well over a century. My mate is a dog daemon.” She said shaking her head.

“I had heard that. What does he look like?” Grigory asked.

“You have seen my daughter then you have a good idea what her sire looks like. He is taller and very masculine looking but their coloring and markings are the same.” She said smiling.

“He is a lucky man.” Grigory said bowing.

“Thank you.” She blushed.

Prince Grigory went on about his visiting and Augusta mingled till she could stand no more. She went to Viktor's side and whispered in his ear.

“I am going hunting. I shall be back after awhile.” She whispered in his ear.

“Tiger?” he asked with a smirk.

She leveled him a glare and walked out of the sitting room. She ported to Hunan and sensed Chen. He was not alone and she grumbled. She applied her telekinesis in letting him know she was around. She smirked and knew he was probably ready to jump out of his skin. She hid behind a pillar and she sensed him coming. He found her and looked at her for a moment.

“I am sorry to bother you. Were you terribly busy?” she asked him.

“Lord Aleksei and Lord Chao are here but to hell with them for a moment.” He murmured.

“It sounds as if you boys are busy talking tiger. I will go hunting and find you later.” She smiled.

She watched in surprise as he used a claw and cut his own wrist. He pressed it to her mouth and she groaned. She did not know when her feeding from him occasionally had quit bothering him. She gently sank her fangs into his wrist and she held on to his arm.

“Why are you here?” he asked in a deep voice.

She looked at him and groaned again. She had no wish to release his veins yet as his blood was like a rare vintage of very good wine. She took in just a little more and lifted her mouth. She licked her lips and stared at him for but a second.

“I was in Russia getting information and I wanted to see you.” She said touching his face.

“Let me finish this meeting. Meet me in DongJiang?” he asked.

“Hai.” She smiled.

He bowed and he covered his wrist with his sleeve. He walked back into his palace and she looked up at the stars. She ported to DongJiang and waited for Chen. He was actually thrilled to see her and he would be here soon. She smirked as she stripped out of her hanfu and pulled the see through outer part back on. She masked herself totally and she slipped behind a tree. She rested the back of her head against the tree and was dying to have Chen's hands on her. She heard a slight noise and she peeked from behind the tree. Chen was there and he saw her. She slipped out and smiled at him.

“I cut the meeting short. Gods Augusta.” He moaned as she moved into his embrace.

“You did not need to do that.” She whispered.

“Aleksei looked at me as if I had gone mad. Jin is being a huge pest.” He said grazing her lips.

“He is the Amur from Siberia?” she asked as she undid his hair.

“Yes. He says you are legendary all over Russia.” He murmured softly.

“I have led an eventful life.” She stated in a soft voice.

“He says that the former Prince of Vladimir was in love with you.” He replied against her lips.

“Andrey.” She whispered.

“Is it true?” he asked looking deeply into her eyes.

“No. He pursued me but I did not return his ardor.” She said brushing her lips against his.

“Because he was mortal?” he asked softly.

“Because he was a good man; Andrey was not perfect as nobody is but I considered myself too dangerous to bed a mortal.” She said looking away.

“I did not mean to bring bad memories Augusta.” He said turning her head to look at him again.

“They are not bad memories Chen. I was just different then.” She sighed.

“I am glad to know you.” He said lifting her chin up.

“I want you to pay up. You said you owed me.” She teased.

“I handle my debts Augusta I assure you.” He growled softly.

He pulled her to him roughly and a thrill ran down her spine. A very small portion of Chen's brain screamed at him to stop but he disregarded it. He smirked as a thought entered his head and he shielded from her. He pulled her down with him and he laid her back.

“You are shielding from me Chen.” She smiled softly.

“Yes I am. Close your eyes kiang shi.” He murmured.

She smiled and did as he asked. She felt him untie the obi the held the hanfu closed. He spread it out exposing her nude form. Chen looked over her form and released his breath. Her body rivaled any tigress he had ever lain with. He quickly divested himself of his pein-fu and ku. She had a faint scar on her lower abdomen where her pups had been taken through. He ran his fingertips lightly between her breasts and down her stomach. His head was getting dizzy as he touched her. He had never been one to deny his lusts the way he had with her. He lowered his lips to her stomach and placed feather light caresses. She squirmed and his hands went to her hips to steady her. She was such a passionate creature and he would have her pleading soon. He dipped his tongue into her belly button and she gasped softly. She was letting him have his way and he intended to enjoy this. He began placing more soft kisses on her sweet feminine flesh and she squirmed more. He was purposely avoiding her center and her rosy peaks. Her eyes flew open and she moaned very softly as he ran his rough tongue along her skin but avoided all the extra sensitive areas. He wanted her to become feverish with need. She felt his lips on her thighs and she moaned again. She lifted her head to catch his eyes and they were sultry at the moment. He sat up and lifted her leg and continued with his assault. Her chest rose and fell quicker and she felt his lips along her calf; she tried to keep herself in check but it was too much and not enough.

“Chen! Kamis please!” she begged of him.

“Augusta lay back and let me pleasure you this time.” He muttered against her skin.

She laid her head down and sighed in pleasure as his tongue tasted her ankle then her toes. She gasped softly as he kissed her foot and released her leg and went to her other one. When his mouth reached her other thigh she was burning horribly and he still denied her. She growled loudly in near agony and he worked his mouth slowly up her sternum. She lifted her head again and stared into very red eyes. He had gotten himself rather bothered as well. She laid her head back and felt his lips at her throat. She mewled and wanted him to clamp down; to do something. How he managed to control himself she did not know. She sensed his own need and closed her eyes and concentrated on brushing soft caresses against his staff. He groaned and latched onto her throat without biting down. He growled fiercely and released her throat and started nipping her skin roughly. She cried out and he wrapped his lips around her ear lobe and growled fiercely in her ear. She felt him spread her thighs with his hand and she whimpered. He released her earlobe and lowered his head to her breast and suckled it. She cried her pleasure as Chen inserted two fingers into her core. He was nibbling her nipple and the urge to bite became overwhelming; he realized she was broadcasting her want. He carefully bit into the soft flesh and she nearly screamed. Augusta threw her head back and released loud moans as Chen had picked up on her desire. He was starting to pick up things and call for her; she did not understand it but it amazed her. He enjoyed a little blood letting and lifted his mouth and kissed hers for a moment. He pulled his mouth back and attached his lips around her neglected peak. He bit in again and she forcefully orgasmed. It was sudden and she shook against him. He lifted his mouth and he looked surprised and pleased. He was not done she could see and she whined when he slowly withdrew his fingers. He smiled at her and slid down her body. He licked along her slit and tasted her release. He suppressed a vicious snarl as his own instincts to just take her hit him. He inserted his tongue into her sheath and plunged it over and over. Her moaning had become rasping breaths and he almost could take no more. She had lost concentration of her yoki but her responses were driving him to sheer madness. He suckled her nub of nerves and she bit into her own hand to suppress a loud scream as she again climaxed for him. He again tasted her release and pulled back. She was panting and her eyes were blazing. He pressed his body to hers and slid into her. They both cried out and he could not stop a relentless pace. Every time he withdrew she became breathless. He had dreamed of being in her again and his mind was so gone from the exquisite feeling of being one with her. She met his passion in time with his thrusts. He felt her kinetic yoki and he roared out; he held himself back this time and he met her eyes. They were pleading it seemed.

“What do you need?” he asked in a rather rough voice.

“Blood.” She managed.

He lowered his mouth to hers kissing her deeply and her fangs tore into his tongue. He heard her growling ferociously and it was him that was doing it. He tried to pull back his primal self and the growling softened. He begged her in thought to stop him from biting her throat and she moaned yes. There were no spoken words as they understood on a deeper level. His thrusts were hard and fast and she continued to meet them. He released her mouth and she was holding him with her mind from marking her. She wrapped her legs tightly around his waist and he lifted a wrist of hers; he sank his fangs in and it threw them together into bliss. She arched her back and released a soulful moan and he had to roar as he released. He pressed his forehead to hers and tried to catch his breath. Her chest heaved as the pleasure was still intense. It dawned on her she was channeling the Byakko lord. She stared up at the night sky and ran her hands down his back to his muscular backside. He found her lips again and ardently brought her to another near climax with just his lips. She moaned into his mouth and he slowly withdrew from her lips. He stayed buried in her; very unwilling to withdraw from her warmth.

“Augusta?” he asked softly.

“Hai?” she asked.

“Can I stay here?” he joked.

“This moment please.” She groaned softly.

He very slowly withdrew from her and she fought the urge to wrap her legs around his waist again. She shut her eyes against the exquisite feeling of him withdrawing. He lay next to her and fought the urge to sleep. He had only halted the meeting saying that he wanted to hunt and he would be back shortly. He grew very bold and slipped a finger between her nether lips and massaged her nub. She sucked in her breath and looked at him.

“I want you to remember this. I want you to dream about me the way I do you.” He murmured in her ear.

“Chen! Gods please enter me again.” She cried.

He lay on his back and pulled her to straddle him. They consumed each other again and lost the fight this night.

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Augusta ported back to Novgorod in the middle of the night. She was so sore and she had been bitten many times. Viktor was in the library when she came in. She stared at him and he smiled at her.

“You never did like quick encounters.” He joked.

“God Viktor not now.” She said sitting down gingerly.

“What did your tiger do?” he asked amused.

“He makes love like an uppyr. He figured out that we can channel each other and he just does whatever is in my head at that moment.” She said in near bliss.

“Well sister you may have awakened a latent ability for telepathy in this particular tiger.” He shrugged.

“God Viktor I am a whore!” she said laying her head in her hands.

“How often have you done this? Keep it to the minimum and move on. I have been reading up on wraiths.” He said.

“And?” she asked.

“They are dimensional beings. Their true form so to speak is ethereal; their humanoid form is their most vulnerable. They are often mistaken for ghosts and feed off other life. Some of the wraiths can even posses another.” He read aloud.

“Damn. No wonder we uppyr fear them.” She said softly.

“Da. We will learn what Vlad had to say in the morning. It took him centuries to defeat these beings. You say Asuna pissed one off?” he asked.

“Asuna mated Katashi going on seven years ago. Katashi was fighting a being called Bai gu Jing. She had apparently shape shifted into someone else and got pregnant with Ang Chi. Katashi wanted to have nothing to do with her and the boy. Ang Chi had a right to be made heir and Jing pressed for it by going to war against him in Manchuria. Well she had even went so far as to ally herself with mortals of the Ming Court. Katashi came to Japan for familial allies and he ran into Asuna. They fell into lust and mated. Asuna became pregnant and Jing went after her. My daughter had no idea what the hell was going on and when she did she disavowed Katashi. Well Jing still hated her and went after her on the islands. Asuna eventually killed her and Ang Chi came after her for killing his mother. Asuna did the best she could think of and adopted him. Now this other creature wants revenge for the female Jing.” She explained in length.

“Good God what a mess. So this Ang Chi is half wraith?” Viktor asked.

“Da. He is loyal to Asuna and calls her mother. She made him the Lord of Manchuria and is regent for now.” She said.

“Well we shall see what our former king had to say on the subject.” He replied standing.

Augusta stood and stretched. Chen would need lots of sleep as he had insisted on feeding her. She had ascertained from his mind that he still had to meet with Chao and Aleksei. She had heard of the Amur tiger before but had not seen him.

“Viktor do you know of the Amur?” she asked.

“Barely. They are all the way in Siberia.” He said yawning.

“Their Lord is called Aleksei.” She replied in thought.

“Oh I have heard of him. He is what you call a hanyou.” Viktor said.

“What?” she asked shocked.

“Da. He is half human.” Viktor replied.

“Holy shit!” she stated with shock.

“Eloquent Augusta.” He laughed.

“Surely Chen would know he is a hanyou.” She said in surprise.

“I have no idea. I am for bed.” He said taking the stairs to his room.

Curiosity overcame Augusta and she again ported to Hunan. She stretched her awareness and was thrilled to sense Chen alone. She ported to his chambers and found him fast asleep on his bed. Chinese beds looked like a combination of a European bed and a futon. She pushed aside the silk curtains and lay down next to him. He sat up suddenly and she grinned up at him.

“Is everything alright?” he asked concerned.

“I am sore but otherwise quite content. Is it true Lord Aleksei is a hanyou?” she asked.

“Yes but what does that matter?” he asked raising a brow.

“I find it fascinating is all. You knew and do not care? Most Japanese youki would stick their noses up at him.” She said sitting up.

“He may be hanyou but he is immensely powerful. Is your brother in law not the same way?” Chen asked.

“Hai. The Taisho was a powerhouse of yoki.” She said lying down.

“Aleksei's father was the Amur and his mother was a Russian noblewoman.” He said settling down next to her.

“What were their names?” Augusta asked.

“Dmitri Petrov and Kira Chernienko.” He answered softly.

“I knew her!” Augusta cried.

“Really? How did you know her?” he asked running his hands through her hair.

“She was at the court of Andrey!” she said stunned.

“Well that is fascinating. She died more than a century ago.” He murmured sleepily.

“Did you finish your pow wow with the other tiger boys?” she asked as she massaged his tender spot.

“Augusta, I am exhausted.” He mumbled.

“Shall I finish you off?” she laughed in his ear.

“You will kill me.” He chuckled.

“You are such a virile male. Surely once more will not kill you.” She teased him.

“Tonight it would. Stay a little while?” he asked.

“Hai.” She whispered.

She sat up and waved her hand at his door and locked it tight. He watched amazed and she lay down again.

“Is it ever locked?” she asked closing her eyes.

“Yes. When I want absolute privacy.” He muttered.

“I love you.” She stated in a barely audible tone.

Chen's eyes opened and watched her breathing even out and he whispered the same words. He closed his eyes in perfect contentment and passed out as well.

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The sun began to peak over the sky and Augusta shot up. There was knocking on the door and she looked down at Chen who started to stir. She kissed him quickly and ported away. He grumbled and went to the door and yanked it open. His best friend Lord Aleksei stood there and looked amused.

“What?” Chen asked in a bad mood.

“How was the hunt Chen?” he friend asked knowingly.

“Shut up and come in or go away.” He muttered.

“Not enough sleep? Which of your lovely mates did you enjoy so late?” Aleksei asked with a smirk as he came in and shut the door.

“No one. I am just tired. I swear I am gonna spank the Panyu Inu all the way back to Guangzhou.” He said grumbling.

“Chen you are normally not this worn out.” His friend pointed out.

“How much do you know about Lady Augusta?” he asked.

“My mother knew her well. Novgorod is the Orlovich Duchy and her family still rules it. They said she was uncommonly beautiful and intelligent. Her beauty is what was legendary; there were foreign kings asking for her hand. She disappeared until we all heard she was in Japan mated to an inu.” He shrugged.

“You have not seen her have you?” Chen asked.

“There are portraits of her in Moscow Chen. Hell there is a portrait of her in the palace in Hessen. When I say kings wanted her; they wanted her. Some mortals knew she was not one but wanted her anyway.” Aleksei said.

“No wonder she ran away.” He said softly.

“My friend what is going on?” Aleksei asked.

“I love her. I met her in Shanghai when I was dealing with Asuna. She was so damn beautiful and sassy. Seeing as she is kiang shi and my not knowing that she had a good view into my mind. You know me Aleksei. I had rather lewd thoughts about her and of course she instantly heard it. Anyway it has been an eventful couple of years getting to know her. Ever since Quon met Asuna my life and his has been turned upside down.” Chen explained.

“You have enough sense to be completely discrete do you not? Gods Chen her mate is the most powerful inu there is.” His friend hissed.

“I know that Alek! Damnit I have stayed away from her for more than nine months! I do not go around seeking her out. Last night was different. I will not allow it to happen anymore.” He said picking up a decanter of wine and pouring a glass.

“I hope not. Meifen is having your cub Chen. You have eight concubines you never touch; why her?” The Amur asked.

“I do not know. Gods I wish I had met her centuries ago. It matters not anyway. I have a damn inu to threaten and a life to live.” He said stretching.

“Well Quon has already rocked tiger traditions just watch what you do. I still think your son should take Lanfen as a concubine.” Aleksei stated.

“Look Quon wants her dead. Not a smart idea to put the object of his disdain in his path. My eldest may be calmer than me does not mean his temper is less. When it comes to the inu princess and Zihao; he will lose it completely.” Chen stated sipping the wine.

“Well he did not handle it well at all.” Aleksei muttered.

“My friend I agree but you want happiness for your cubs the same as I.” Chen laughed.

“She bitches and moans about how unfair it is that a dog got her mate.” He grimaced.

“Well said dog also happens to be stunning and quite the match for my son.” He said smoothly.

“Zihao is rather adorable.” Aleksei conceded.

“I know. Look we shall find Lanfen a mate and soon. Hell there is lions in Africa and the females dominate there.” Chen joked.

The Amur started laughing but he actually thought the idea had merit. His daughter was too bold for most male tigers. He was deep in thought and decided to visit Novgorod soon.

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

Augusta and Viktor moved quickly through the old castle of Vlad. They both knew exactly where the library was. Augusta moved ahead and went into the stone room. She started flying through the titles and it disgusted her that such an obviously intelligent creature could be such an evil bastard. She finally found an aged journal and she saw a flash of Vlad writing it in furiously. She came back to herself and held onto to it.

“What did you see?” he asked.

“Vlad frightened.” She said afraid herself.

“I figured Vlad would only have been afraid of Asuna.” Viktor stated.

“He never feared her; in fact he underestimated her. He thought her pretty and something to use but never fear. That was what brought his end. Not realizing the extent of how her yoki mixed.” Augusta said moving out of the disgusting castle.

Viktor grabbed her and they port back to the house in Novgorod. She sat down and started reading his accounts of his war with the Steppe Wraiths as he called them. She became absorbed in the writing and spent hours at it. She looked up and noticed the sun had nearly gone down.

“Brother, I am taking this back to Japan. This book is full of information; it seems Vlad assumed they would come back.” Augusta said standing.

“Of course. Come see us soon please and not on your death bed.” He said bluntly.

“Da. I am sorry I was a coward. I shall see you soon.” She kissed his cheek and ported back to the West.

She popped right into her mate's study and he was there with Baku. She lifted the book and put it on his desk. He raised a brow and looked rather pleased at her treasure.

“The Jings are not the same family of wraiths but they are wraiths. They are scary Sesshomaru. I need to find Asuna and have her read this.” She said.

“Osamu can connect with her.” The Western Lord stated.

“I am beginning to think that Kaito is a wraith as well. I think I shall have a conversation with our friendly neighborhood kami!” she snapped.

“Augusta wait!” Sesshomaru said but watched as she ported away.

He snorted in anger and wished his mate would listen half the time. He sat back down and realized she had taken the book.

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

Augusta was at the top of Fuji and she mentally called out for Kaito. She waited and he did not appear. Her lips twitched and she sat upon a rock.

“I know what you are wraith! What clan you come from I am curious but you can hear me you son of a bitch!” she shouted.

“You know for royalty you really have an awful mouth!” Kaito said from behind her.

She whirled around and narrowed her eyes.

“You are a not a kami you are a wraith. Do you know the Jing clan?” she asked with narrowed eyes.

“Do I look like Shouten wraith?” he asked crossing his arms.

“You know of them though.” She asked.

“Hai I know of them. They are beastly creatures.” He said sitting.

“You still wish for my daughter to give you a child?” she asked.

“Her five years is not up. Hai, I will have my child.” He answered.

“You aided her in saving Quon.” Augusta stated.

“I had no wish to see her suffer losing the Byakko. She was already pregnant at that point.” He shrugged.
”My God you creatures are terrifying.” She said taken back.

“I told you I am not evil. These Shouten wraiths are very much evil and you need focus on them and not me. I like your daughter; I am one of her biggest fans.” He smirked.

“Do you know where she is?” Augusta asked.

“I do not keep tabs on her all day every day.” Kaito said annoyed.

“Do you know where she is?” she repeated.

“Korea. Lord Ishin has become a fan as well.” He smirked.

“You have to be kidding me.” She said in a fury.

“He is rather persuasive Lady Augusta. I imagine Naraku would be quite angry.” He said raising a brow.

“You say nothing or I will find a way to your plane and drain you dry!” she threatened.

“Well now. You are a brazen hussy. You have been enjoying your own Byakko?” he stated sweetly.

“I mean it wraith. I can find a way to kill you.” She said in a hateful glare.

“I have no wish to divulge anyone's secrets. Gods you are a spiteful mother. She is in Korea.” He stated fading away.

Augusta focused on her daughter and willed with her might to be by her side. She appeared in a strange palace. Asuna was asleep in the arms of the tsuchigumo lord himself.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

“Get your ass up! Damnit Asuna are you fucking insane? You Lord Ishin you are old enough to know better!” I heard my mother hiss.

I nearly jumped ten feet and Ishin sat up abruptly. He looked at my mother and she glared at both of us.

“You know rutting is one thing and I have no room to talk but you know what Ishin you are a brat!” she snapped at him.

“Excuse me? You port into my room and you admonish me?” he demanded.

“Mother how did you find me?” I asked.

“Well I found out what Kaito is and Jing was at the Western Palace. I figured you would like to know. You Ishin court death. You are an idiot and you are a bigger idiot Asuna. It is noble of you Ishin to love her and want to be joined with and all but have you thought through beyond your dick?” she asked him.

Ishin was furious and I suppressed laughter. I grabbed a dressing gown and put it on. Nobu had heard the yelling and ran in. He saw my mother with her hands on her hips admonishing his Lord.

“How dare you come in here and preach to me uppyr!” Ishin snapped.

“You know what Ishin you may be older but I promise you I have actually lived more. You have a thirty something year old youngling and I have raised two pups to adulthood. Now if you want to compare apples and oranges go right ahead. You put yourself and my daughter's life in danger by your actions. Think about that. You young onna have a son that needs you right now.” She stated bluntly.

“Hai.” I said bowing.

Ishin glared at Augusta and she stared him right in the eyes. He was unnerved by her brazenness and I was used to it.

“I have a feeling that Jing is gonna make a play for one of your mates. Hai even you.” She said staring at Ishin.

He was thinking rather bad thoughts and she got right up in his face. He growled and she raised a perfect black brow.

“If I can forgive Naraku for what he did then so can you. You made a choice Ishin in taking my daughter; live with your decision.” She said bluntly.

“You have no idea what you speak of!” he hissed.

“Do I not? His detachment raped and bled me for months. You think I do not know what real pain is? You have no idea tsuchigumo of real horrors that others have suffered. Have you ever been truly hungry where you wished for death and it could not come? You any idea of what it feels like to be fed upon by your own mother and father?” she asked him with narrowed eyes.

I covered my mouth at her words and Ishin was stunned. She stepped back and crossed her arms.

“I promise you if I could face my past then you can face yours. She loves you; move on.” She stated.

“Mother what is Jing and Kaito.” I asked.

“They are wraith youki.” She answered.

My mouth dropped open and things made sense. I was floored and my mind flew to Naraku. Ishin looked at me nodded for me to go. My mother looked at Ishin and he stared back. I ported quickly and when I reappeared my mother was not back.

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

“You have a lot of balls uppyr.” He said looking at her.

“I do when it comes to my offspring. I was bleeding to death when I had Asuna and Osamu. I have a tendency to be a little protective. I have lost many pups Ishin and I have done terrible things. You think I would not recognize a kindred soul? She will not give him up and you will lose her if you kill him. What shall it be it Lord Ishin?” she asked.

“Kamis you have a ways with words the same as she.” He muttered.

“I have been at four centuries longer. I am tired and I need to see my own mate. I would watch your back when it came to the wraith.” She stated yawning.

“I think I can handle that thing.” He said disgusted.

“Vlad Tepest was terrified of them. He was Asuna's worst enemy and actually did kill her. She had to be revived with Tensaiga.” She said staring at him.

“She died?” he asked stunned.

“Hai. Dead as a dead can be. Her sire prayed he could revive her and luckily he could.” She said.

Ishin stared at the Western Lady and watched her port away. Nobu had witnessed the whole episode and was stunned as well.

“She had brass balls.” Nobu said in admiration.

“Nobu she just dressed me down whilst I was in my bed.” Ishin said shaking his head.

`”Like I said brass balls.” Nobu said.

“Kamis if she is not the second most magnificent onna!” Ishin said amazed.

“Asuna is the first?” Nobu asked.

“Hai. She seems an almost exact copy.” He shook his head.

“Well life has just gotten interesting.” The healer said walking away.

Ishin thought about what the uppyr female had said but it warred with everything in him. He intended to get to know her better.

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

I walked into the Northern Castle after having seen to Ang Chi and scented for Naraku. I opened my thoughts to him and he was not here. I looked around and scented more urgently.

-Naraku?- I thought.

I sensed nothing and I panicked. I ported back to Mount Fuji and I looked around.

“Kaito! Please I beg you help me.” I yelled.

“Lady Asuna.” Kaito stated from behind me.

I turned and I was afraid for my mate. Kaito looked at me and bid me sit.

“Did Jing get to him?” I asked.

“I really do not know Asuna. I can try and find out but I think you need to look in China.” He said softly.

“Please I need your help. I saw what Bai Jing did to Hideaki and Sheng. Please.” I said falling to my knees.

“Asuna I will help you. I have always tried to aid you when I was aware. I am sorry I could not get to Yuudai in time.” He said lifting my chin.

“I cannot lose him.” I stated.

“We will find him. I cannot believe I am doing this but I shall stay here.” He said.

“Thank you!” I said kissing his hand.

“You have no idea about anything to do with my kind. Jing is a Shouten wraith my dear. They are highly unpleasant as you are aware.” He said kindly.

“Can you stay here, I mean in your humanoid form?” I asked.

“It takes a lot of yoki and spiritual energy but I shall manage.” He smiled.

“How do you feed?” I asked him.

“Much like your mother. Wraiths and uppyr are similar youki. We have not been the best of friends through the millenniums.” He smiled.

“Come with me to Shanghai?” I asked.

“Hai. I will see you there.” He said standing.

“I am stopping by the West first.” I stated.

“I shall be there.” He bowed.

I ported back to the West and I was panicked badly. I opened to Ishin and pushed, prodded his mind. He was there and I demanded he remain there.

-I will not lose you as well! You have no idea what these creatures can do! I have seen it. - I hissed in his mind.

-I do not like cowering away! - He thought.

-I know you hate him and you are probably rejoicing but he does not deserve what that creature can do. - I pathed.

-I hate him but I wish you no pain. I will do as you ask for now. - He replied in my head.

I withdrew from his mind and went to my mother. She had changed into a night gown and I was terrified.

“Baby what is wrong?” she asked me.

“Naraku is just gone!” I said.

“Damn it! I was afraid of this. I will get dressed.” She said.

“Mother I am afraid.” I said more than terrified.

“We are stronger. We will beat him do you hear me?” she asked me.

I nodded and I ported to Shanghai. Zhou was staring at Kaito frightened of him. He was amused and his eyes were green. He looked at me and I was stunned.

“Your eyes.” I said.

“I am fully corporeal now. I can see you quite well.” He stated.

“I do not understand.” I said sitting.

“It is not important Asuna. It is just how I am. Come let us head to Manchuria.” He said rising.

He walked over to Zhou and took her hand; he kissed it and she blushed profusely.

“Never fear me little inu.” He said softly.

“Hai.” She stated in awe.

Kaito took my elbow and ported us to Shenyang. It was effortless as far as I could tell. He looked around with interest and Sheng came forward as soon as he felt my aura.

“So this is the inu.” Kaito said looking Sheng over.

Sheng raised a brow to him and Kaito smirked.

“Sheng this is Kaito. Naraku has been kidnapped.” I said quietly.

“I lost the connection with him as well.” Sheng stated.

“Lei Jing I think took him. I know not how because frankly he is one of the most powerful youki I have known.” I said getting terribly afraid.

“Asuna, koi calm yourself.” Sheng replied.

“Ang Chi is in the West right now.” I said wringing my hands.

Kaito put a comforting hand on my shoulder and I was more agitated. I realized this was not me at all and I looked at Sheng.

“I am feeling him. Kamis, he is afraid.” I said in anger.

“Follow the feelings Asuna.” Kaito said.

I closed my eyes and concentrated. I could feel him but I was experiencing it differently. It overwhelmed me and I just followed my instincts. I ported and appeared in a dank room. Naraku was there and he looked horrid. I ran to him and was thrown by a barrier.

“You hate me wraith then hate me! Leave my mate out of it!” I screamed.

“Oh this is not about revenge inu. You have excellent taste in males; he is really the most entrancing creature I have seen. You do not like inu anymore?” he taunted.

My eyes were blazing and I grew my whip. I struck at the barrier and my yoki just fizzled out. Naraku was not conscious and I was furious. Jing was standing close to him.

“How did you even capture him?” I demanded.

“He has such a soft spot for his little girl. He is a good daddy is he not?” he asked leering at Naraku.

I was shaking at the creature's deceit.

“Tell me inu is the tsuchigumo such an incredible fuck? You have had this one and his rival. You are such a whore you are.” He chuckled.

I was glad that Naraku was unconscious for the moment. I thought quickly and knew that the uppyr had defeated these creatures. I closed my eyes and I pulled from Naraku his yoki and I pulled the Kumosaiga and shoved it into the barrier. I released my own yoki and the barrier started to grow a hole. Jing's eyes widened in disbelief and I stepped through the ruined barrier. He was fixing to grab Naraku but I pressed my claws against his chest and burned him with my Dakkasou. He shrieked the ungodly scream of his kind and staggered back. He realized he was bested and escaped. I went to Naraku and lifted his head. He was ripped and torn open everywhere. I was crying and broke his shackles. Jing had to have invaded his mind. It was damn near impossible to outsmart him. He had used the image of our daughter to get that close to him. He was bleeding and I ported to Korea. Ishin could be furious and hate me.

“Nobu! Nobu please!” I cried out.

The healer ran in and stopped dead when he saw who I had.

“Please! He is part tsuchigumo please! Nobu please!” I sobbed.

He came over and looked him over. He looked grim and got up.

“Not here Asuna. I will tend him somewhere else. Ishin is not in the palace and I will not have him know about this.” He stated.

“I understand. Get what you need.” I pleaded.

He left quickly and grabbed many things and he came back and put his hand on my shoulder. I took Naraku the one place I knew would be safe. I ported us into the bowels of Hakureri-zan. Nobu looked around in surprise and I erected a powerful barrier.

“Where are we?” Nobu asked.

“The holy mount.” I said softly.

“Hakurei-zan?” he asked.

“Hai. This is an important place to him.” I said brushing his hair off his forehead.

“Let me work Asuna. Get him a futon and brings lots of water.” He commanded.

I nodded and shed my haori. I put it under his head and ported out. Thoughts of Naraku of being touched by that creature caused me to be sick and I started retching.

“Get a hold of yourself inu.” Nobu snapped.

I nodded and ported to the West. I went to my own chambers and rolled up my futon. I was moving so fast and I saw my sire out of the corner of my eye.

“Father not now.” I said roughly.

“Where are you going?” he demanded.

“To save my mate.” I snapped.

I ported away and reappeared in the mountain. I laid out the futon and helped Nobu lay him out on it. I ported to the stores at the Western Palace and got jugs for water. I was not thinking and just doing. I ported to a stream and began filling them. I again ported to Nobu and Naraku and set the water down. I popped into the Northern Castle and grabbed him several cotton yukatas and some haori, kosodes, and hakamas. I ported back again. Nobu worked and I looked at his black eyes.

“Has he been…?” I could not even finish the statement.

“This creature is evil. I cannot tell. He has been torn and ripped apart. There was some sort of shoki blocking his regenerative abilities. I had heard they were legendary.” Nobu said softly.

“He has that ability. That is why the Bakusaiga is so effective against him. It rots flesh and stops healing.” I said in a dull tone.

“Who wields such a weapon?” he asked stunned.

“My sire.” I stated bluntly.

Nobu shook his head and continued to work. I crawled over to Naraku and pressed my lips to his ear.

“I told you I cannot live without you. Do not leave me.” I whispered hoarsely.

Nobu watched and he knew it was the soul bond. Hisashi and Sorami had been deeply in love. He had not liked the former lord very much but the passion between him and the inu princess had been profound.

“Naraku wake up. Please wake up.” I growled.

“Asuna let him sleep. He is breathing and that is good.” Nobu said.

I looked at Nobu and I pulled the coverlet over him. He had been cut into and gouged in so many places. Nobu began mixing venoms and herbs. I felt Naraku's head and it was clammy.

“You are Naraku! You were the most feared youki for years! You will not succumb to this creature!” I snarled softly.

“Asuna lay next to him and rest.” Nobu commanded.

I nodded and lay down. I brushed his mind and he was there but not responding. I dipped in deeper and pulled on his sub conscience. He gasped awake and I looked down at him.

“Mizuki where is she?” he groaned.

“The Western Palace. She is safe. You are safe.” I said holding his face.

“Where are we?” he asked weakly.

“Mount Hakurei-zan.” I said gently.

He closed his eyes and said nothing. Nobu watched carefully as I brushed his bangs off of his face.

“Asuna?” Naraku asked in a hoarse voice.

“Hai?” I asked in return.

“Knock me out.” He begged.

Nobu handed me a cup and I lifted his head and he slowly sipped the brew. It did not scent revolting and he drank it greedily. He caught sight of Nobu and raised a brow.

“Who are you?” he asked in a wretched voice.

“I am a healer.” Nobu said softly.

“You owe fealty to the tsuchigumo lord.” He croaked.

“My Lord owed your mate for saving his son.” He answered.

“Too kind my little inu.” He mumbled.

“What did he do to you?” I asked.

“Too much.” He muttered.

His eyes grew heavy and he looked at me with pain.

“Do you owe the funnel a favor?” he demanded.

“It matters not my heart. I would do anything for you.” I said calmly.

“I want to see him.” He said as he drifted to sleep.

Nobu and I stared at each other in shock. Nobu took the opportunity to look him over more carefully and he looked almost angry.

“Nobu what are you seeing?” I demanded.

“Several different types of weapons were used. He tortured him.” He said in disgust.

“What are you telling me?” I asked.

“Asuna he tortured him!” he exclaimed.

I sat back and shook in anger. I looked away and ported. I went to Korea and went into the forests. Ishin was hunting and I could sense his presence. I followed his aura and I found him in his true form.

“Jing did revolting things! Kamis!” I hissed and started crying in fury.

He changed form and came to me and pulled me to him. His feelings were in a tumult and I looked at him.

“He wants to see you.” I said.

“What?” he asked stunned.

“He wants to see you.” I repeated.

“Asuna I cannot.” He said backing up.

“I gave you what you wanted! You do this for me!” I yelled.

Ishin stared at me and snarled in anger. He turned away and then back around.

“This changes nothing! This will not change how I hate him!” he hissed.

“You do this for me not Hisashi! You say you love me.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Kamis! You are a manipulative bitch.” He growled.

I grabbed his hand and ported us back into the bowels of the mountain. Ishin looked around not recognizing where we were. He jerked away from me and saw Nobu. He looked furious and then stared at me.

“Wake him now so I can get this over with!” he hissed at Nobu.

“Ishin this is bad. This is really bad.” Nobu said quietly.

“I do not care. Wake him up!” he hissed again.

“Ishin!” I warned him.

“You ask this of me and I am here. Never ask this again.” He sneered at me.

“My you are so delightful.” I hissed right back.

He rolled his eyes and Nobu did as he was bid. I went to Naraku's side and Ishin was furious again. I looked at him and hissed at him. Naraku barely focused and groaned. He saw Ishin and then me.

“Ishin.” He said softly.

“Talk quick. I owed the inu but even this is too much.” He sneered.

“Shut up tsuchigumo!” I growled.

“I am sorry.” Naraku mumbled.

“What?” Ishin said more than shocked and I was more so.

“Things happened you did not know about. There was no way you could have. I believed you dead and you were right and I should have checked. I am sorry for that. I would have taken care of you.” He said closing his eyes.

“What do you mean? Tell me what you mean!” Ishin said in near hysterics.

“Our sire had gone mad. Our mother had given the keys of the kingdom so to speak. We had several secret hideouts and they had been decimated by the dragons. They were going to destroy us all. He would do nothing and started killing everything in his anger and betrayal. There were those that saw the situation as a way to garner power and he still would do nothing. He locked himself in his chambers with her do you remember?” Naraku asked.

“No.” Ishin answered.

“I have been trying to remember Ishin. I did not remember it all but I remember you being born in Korea.” His said as if Hisashi.

Ishin looked away and his heart was softening I could tell.

“I begged him to do something, anything but those that wanted power were crashing in around us. You used to hide in the upper most eaves of the palace.” He sighed.

Ishin's hand was actually starting to shake a little. He was staring at Naraku in terrible pain.

“I broke into his chambers and he went to kill me when I tried to take our mother's body and have it cremated as it should have been. He attacked me Ishin and you walked in as I defended myself. You were hysterical and you ran from me. I was injured do you remember?” he asked the tsuchigumo lord.

“Hai.” Ishin breathed.

“I did not leave you on purpose. Sadaharu and Airi came in upon what happened. The palace was coming apart at the seams. Mother's people were there to avenge her death. Airi told me she saw you taken; she said she saw you beaten to death. I should have checked the eaves.” Naraku whispered looking away.

“You listened to her? She never liked me brother! Kamis you were a century older and you listened to a lying bitch!” he hissed.

“I thought I saw your body. I was injured Ishin and Nobu can tell you that is true. I was bleeding out and not all there so to speak. You were right I should have gone back. Father had pierced my liver that night. I did not kill him to divide our kind; I killed him to try and save myself. He was mad Ishin; our mother broke him when she screwed that bastard that eventually raped Sorami. I wronged you and I am sorry.” He said closing his eyes.

Ishin actually had tears in his eyes and he looked away.

“You were such a quiet boy. I used to take you hunting and you would fall asleep before you could catch anything. You built your web and passed out.” Naraku smirked with his eyes closed.

Ishin smiled and looked at Naraku in something besides hatred.

“I should have raised you but I am glad you were not in the south. I tried to find a way to bring our people back together then it became about survival. I heard rumors that you may have lived but the war spilled onto our doorstep so to speak. I heard Sorami being raped and you know what happened from there. I did avenge our father and my mate when Mizuchi met his death. I ignored the rumors in hopes that maybe you did survive and finally after Ryukotsusei took over the Dragon Clan; I wanted you no where near me. You would have died. I had let you down enough.” Naraku said in an exhausted voice.

“I forgive you.” Ishin said softly.

“You do not need to but I wanted you to know I did what I did because you were my baby brother and I loved you. I failed you on so many levels and I was not strong enough to protect anyone I loved. Will you promise me something?” Naraku asked Ishin.

“Hai.” Ishin stated.

“If something happens to me make sure my son and daughter know who they are?” he asked.

“Do not be foolish. I swear I will protect them as they are my own. Nothing is going to happen.” Ishin said firmly.

“I have to regroup. Asuna knows what I have to do. I am leaving my love but Ishin will protect you all.” He said in a dejected voice.

“He injured you that badly? Naraku?” I asked holding his face.

“Hai. His shoki is stopping me from healing. I will be back; I just have to heal my love and you do not need to see it nor the pups.” He said weakly.

“You are handing me to Ishin?” I asked.

“Hai. He loves you already.” Naraku closed his eyes.

“I will protect your family Naraku. When you return we will unite our peoples for the first time in a millennium.” Ishin said softly.

I helped Naraku up and I could scent infection. He touched my face and pulled me down in a kiss.

“I am sorry I am weak at this moment but I will not be. I love you my little inu. I am not doing this in anger, I fear I will die if I do not.” He said smiling weakly.

“You are losing your ability to hold yourself together.” I said in understanding.

“Hai. I will come back; I will destroy that demented fuck. Ishin is your mate in my stead if I do not come back. This is the way of the tsuchigumo.” He said closing his eyes.

He managed to roll to his side and produce his shoki cloud and disappear. I staggered back and looked at Ishin and Nobu.

“What just happened? What the hell just happened?” I asked hysterically.

“You are my responsibility. He is doing as he should.” Ishin stated softly.

“Do you forgive him truly?” I asked stunned to my core.

“Hai. He spoke the truth and I did not understand his reasons for not coming for me. I understand now because I am a father. Your own memories have shown me that his former ningen half did many terrible things. I have to sort through it all but that was my brother speaking.” Ishin said closing his eyes.

“I do not understand. Naraku is gone for who knows how long.” I said in fury.

“That is why he gave me his blessing. He has no idea how long he will be gone and he wants Mizuki and Nori raised in my house.” Ishin tried to explain.

“He is not dead but he is not truly living either.” I said in remorse.

“Focus on ridding the world of the creature.” He said bluntly.

“Nobu tell me the truth did Jing violate him?” I asked.

“Does that matter?” Nobu asked.

“It does to me!” I snarled.

“Hai he did. He is in terrible pain.” Nobu said looking away.

I smashed my hand against the rock wall of the cave and ended up breaking my hand. I was in a tail spin and Naraku had literally handed me to Ishin. I looked at my fractured fingers and wondered how in the hell this had happened. I looked at Ishin and steeled myself.

“If all this is the case then I need you at the Western Palace now!” I said standing.
Ishin nodded and I felt his torment even though he did not express it. Naraku had not known per say but suspected Ishin cared for him. Hatred consumed me that paled in comparison to what I had felt for Bai Jing. I ported to the palace and Ishin followed closely behind me. I went to my sire's study and I was bitter and very angry. I walked in without knocking upon the noble council. They all looked up at me and my father noticed my hand.

“Naraku is gone.” I stated in a fury.
”What?” My father asked in shock.

“He is not dead but just gone. This is Lord Ishin of the Tsuchigumo and we are allied now. I am hunting down the wraiths and killing every last one I find.” I stated to my sire.

“Daughter this is all sudden.” He said calmly.

“The alliance with the tsuchigumo has been in the works my Lord. Jing is behind Yuudai's death as well. I believe it was him that was dealing with Natsumi and the Ming.” I said trying to stay calm.

“Lord Ishin? You plan on giving up coming against the West?” my sire asked.

“I have not moved against the West directly Lord Sesshomaru. I would not harm this house purposely. I have my land.” He said bluntly.

Several of the council members were grumbling and I stared at them coldly. They hushed and I turned to walk out.

“Lady Asuna what are your plans?” Yuuta asked.

“Annilahtion!” I said in a snarl.

I stalked out of the study and Ishin followed in my tirade. He grabbed my arm and I glared at him. My sire came up and Ishin released me. I turned and he saw my pain. He pulled me into a hug and wrapped my arms around him. This was for me I knew and he was very pleased that Naraku was gone.

“Lord Ishin what is truly going on?” my sire demanded.

I stiffened in his arms and Ishin sighed.

“I am responsible for Naraku's family now. I stand as her mate in his stead; it is a tsuchigumo custom.” He replied.

“He is truly gone?” my sire asked.

“For now.” Ishin confirmed.

My sire nodded and released me. I was ramrod straight as my mind was moving ahead strategically. I became concerned about Quon and I suddenly ported away. I had left Kaito and Sheng in Shenyang and I was pulling on my reserves of yoki. I appeared in Hunan in the throne room and saw Quon was fine. I shut my eyes and prayed to the Kamis for his safety. He stood up and came over to me. I held his face and I hugged him fiercely.

“I need you and Zihao to come to the West. I need you where I can see you at all times.” I stated firmly.

“What has happened?” he asked.

“Naraku is gone for now. Jing took him and tortured him. I cannot think he would do that to you, I cannot!” I said starting to shake.

“We will come Asuna. Calm yourself, we are well.” He said holding my face.

I nodded and Chen came up. He looked concerned and I leaned against Quon.

“What do you need from the Byakko?” Chen asked me.

“Stay sheltered for now. My mother, my aunt, and I are going after him.” I stated.

“Why only you three? Why only nu zi?” Chen asked in shock.

“Because Lei Jing does not want us; please my mother cannot worry on you right now.” I said in a hushed tone.

He looked stunned at my statement and he was floored.

“Asuna may I speak with you?” he asked.

“Hai. Quon can you go under guard and get Zihao to port to the West?” I asked.

“Yes.” Quon said grabbing some guards and leaving for the nursery.

Chen walked with me and I bent my head to hear him.

“What exactly do you mean?” he asked.

“I mean I know my mother's feelings and Lei Jing would use you against her. He tortured Naraku in all forms, do you understand? He tore him asunder!” I hissed softly.

“Good Gods!” Chen stated horrified.

“Do you understand that Naraku is one of the most powerful youki known? Do you understand that my mother would be devastated if you were harmed?” I stated in a forceful whisper.

“I shall endeavor to steer clear then. I feel as though I should do something.” He snapped softly.

“Protect Ling and Cheung. I do not care if you have to send them away from China then do it!” I said flatly.

“May I send them to the West?” he asked.

“Hai. Send them now.” I stated.

Chen left my side and went to his other sons and spoke with them quickly. They nodded and Ling looked over at me. Cheung pulled his younger brother up and they came to me. I nodded to Chen and I ported myself and the two tigers to the Western Palace. We were going to be crowded because Ishin did not realize he was not leaving either.

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“I will not allow this!” Ishin hissed at me.

I was in my chambers packing clothing. He was furious that I demanded he stay here and I could not care less. I actually ignored him and my wrist was throbbing horribly. I turned on him and my eyes were crimson colored. I wrapped my hand around his throat and I shocked him quiet.

“I swear to the Kamis you come after me then I will make your life a living hell from now till eternity. I cannot lose you in the same manner I have lost Naraku. I barely feel him Ishin and I will not have what happened happen to you!” I snarled.

“Release my throat Asuna. I love you and this is really not very loving.” Ishin stated bluntly.

I released his throat and continued packing.

“What am I supposed to do in a palace full of inu?” he demanded.

“Bond with your son and make friends. You have spent almost a lifetime making enemies.” I said as bluntly.

“Really cute inu.” He snapped.

“Whatever.” I said strapping Kumosaiga to my hip.

I stared at my fang and unsheathed it. I pressed it into Ishin's hand and he nearly yelped but nothing happened. Its barrier accepted him. I was angry in a way for it and he looked amazed.

“This is good to know. I can channel you now as well.” I said tonelessly.

“Asuna. I am sorry he is gone right now but it is temporary.” He said softly.

“So what happens when he comes back?” I asked.

“That becomes a bit complicated. We already complicated it but now it is official to my kind. We can speak on it later.” He said firmly.

“Fine. I am saying goodbye to my pups. Explain to Karu that I am now officially his step mother.” I said.

“He is rather put out with you at the moment, I shall wait on that for now.” He mused.

“Keh.” I muttered.

I walked past him and went to the nursery. Ang Chi looked nervous and he was angry that I would not let him go.

“Take care of them you hear me son? I am sorry but you are one of his objectives.” I said softly.

“I can sense him mother!” Ang Chi stated.

“Kaito can as well. You will stay here as you are commanded.” I hissed.

“Hai.” He said bowing his head.

I lead Mizuki to a corner and sat with her for a moment. She looked sad and bewildered. My heart clenched and I braced myself.

“Chichi is sick and had to get better.” I said softly.

“Where is chichi?” she asked.

“I do not know. He was hurt very badly and needed time to heal. He asked Lord Ishin to keep you and Nori safe for him.” I whispered.

“Chichi no like Ishin. Ishin bad.” She said tearing up.

“No they are getting along right now. Chichi wants what is best for his pups okay?” I said hugging.

“Who hurt chichi?” she asked in a very angry tone.

“His name is Lei Jing and haha and Obbasan are going to take him down.” I said.

“Zuki hates Jing!” she shrieked.

“I hate him as well.” I said holding her tightly.

“Can Zuki see Ishin?” she asked.

“Hai. Come with me.” I said standing.

I took her to Ishin and Karu's guest chambers. I knocked on the shoji door and Karu pulled it open. He glared at me and I scowled at him. Mizuki hugged his legs and he looked down and ruffled her hair. Ishin came from another room and saw her. She ran and pointed her little finger at him.

“You be good or Zuki spank you!” she snapped.

Ishin tried not to laugh but failed. Karu snorted and my daughter was in a righteous fury. She walked up to Ishin and struck his leg with her claws and was fixing to inject him with her miasma when I grabbed her. She struggled and stuck her tongue out at Ishin. He smirked at her and she growled.

“If you are good Mizuki then I will teach you to change into your true form.” He said raising a brow.

“This true form!” she snapped.

“No, you are tsuchigumo and inu. You have a true form.” He said smirking.

“Why Ishin lie?” she asked me.

“I do not think he does.” I replied.

Karu came over and smirked at Mizuki as well. She looked at him and Ishin and seemed dumbfounded.

“You want to see if you can?” Karu asked.

“Cannot.” She said poking out her lip.

“Mizuki, your chichi trusts me to take care of you and I can teach you this. Come here.” Ishin commanded.

I put her down and she walked to him cautiously. Karu sat on the floor and Ishin did as well. I was intensely curious to see if the inu would dominate in her as it had me.

“Now you need to close your eyes and feel your yoki. Build it up really big.” Ishin said quietly.

Mizuki had squeezed her eyes shut and she was following his commands.

“Let go. Just let your yoki go.” He commanded.

I watched as winds roared up and I stepped back. Ishin and Karu jumped out of the way as well and I saw her features changing. I was floored beyond measure because she was indeed tsuchigumo. My mouth was open and Ishin stepped over and shut it.

“I told you so.” He whispered.

Mizuki was a funnel web and Karu giggled in excitement. She did not move and I felt her fear.

“Ishin help her. She is afraid.” I stated.

He went over to her and tried to touch her and she scuttled backwards. He sighed and I knew he pathed to her. Her eyes were not black but mahogany in this form as well. She did not move and she suddenly changed form back to her humanoid self. She started jumping up and down and squealing in happiness.

“Zuki spider! I spider haha!” she said running to me.

“Very good! You will make chichi so proud when he gets better.” I said hugging her.

“Zuki spin web?” she asked Ishin.

“I can teach you that as well.” He smiled.

She ran over to Karu screaming that she was a tsuchigumo. Ishin looked satisfied and I was still in shock.

“Has she been able to change all this time?” I asked.

“I think so. I think it never occurred to anyone that she had a true form. It was assumed since Naraku was not full tsuchigumo then she would not have that form. Our true forms come from our souls you know. I figured since her soul moved on with Hisashi and Sorami's that she must be a kumo.” He shrugged.

“Amazing. You realize you have created a monster. She will terrorize her brothers.” I actually laughed.

“Well she is beautiful and perfect. She will be a fine warrior one day.” He said looking over at her.

“You think she will be a warrior?” I asked.

“Asuna! When she plays with her dolls she knocks everything over and delights in it.” He laughed.

I realized he was right when I actually thought about it. I did not play with dolls but with wooden swords and chased Yuudai and Osamu around. I sighed heavily and rage stole through me. Jing had taken my best friend and my soul mate from me. I intended to hurt him in very painful ways.

“I am going now. Take care of them and yourself.” I said stiffly.

“Asuna, I love you. I hope you know that.” He said softly.

“I know. I cannot think about that right now because I will be unable to function.” I said bluntly then left.

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I was in my true form and my mother and her sister were on my back. We were moving through dense jungle following Kaito's intelligence. Kaito we found out was a Tenpi wraith. They were apparently going extinct and that was part of the reason he made the deal he did with me. He wanted to save his species it seemed. He seemed to truly like me and I did end up liking him as well. I learned a lot about my Aunt Lark and adored her instantly. My mother and she it seemed were almost alike. We finally made it to a clearing and pulled out Vlad's book. He recounted many battles with the wraiths and it seemed that they were vulnerable to uppyr some. We reclined and I found that I could be as honest with Lark as I could my mother.

“Well Vlad it seemed was a great warrior.” Lark said laying back.

“He was a demented evil bastard.” I muttered.

“You admit yourself it was not always so niece. Some point in his life turned him to his disgusting ways.” She murmured.

“The reverse is true of Naraku my dear.” My mother pointed out.

“Hn.” I muttered.

Both uppyr females looked at me and I closed my eyes and saw my mate broken. My heart hurt for him and I felt less than worthy of him at the moment. I fell asleep hating myself at the moment. I dreamed of nothing but him. I woke up again heartsick. He was ashamed and humiliated; he had refused to call for me because of what the creature had done. My mother was sitting in front of me and I looked up.

“You know it was not your fault. The same as it was not his fault when you were violated. Those acts are meant to degrade and destroy. You and he are stronger than mere acts of the flesh.” She said softly.

“I know but he hurts and I am not there with him.” I said wretchedly.

“Naraku is a shape shifter darling. Over the years he has absorbed so much yoki and other youki that he must have been hurt badly.” She said.

“He was hurt badly.” I confirmed.

“Baby girl maybe seek him in a few weeks. Come let us look for the gibbons.” She stated.

“You said Vlad had a son?” I asked.

“Hai but I know what you are thinking and that is not the track we should go down.” She snapped.

“Mother why not? If Vlad was afraid of these things then maybe his son would ally with us for now. Jing may not stay content with just me. He may decide to garner more power and then what happens?” I asked her.

“I do not want the Tepest family knowing where we are.” She said bluntly.

“The whole uppyr community knows I killed Vlad by now Mother! It has been years now.” I said irritated.

“Where would you look for Jarek anyway?” she demanded.

“Eastern Europe. You and I can path great distances it seems. I am stronger than when I met Vlad last time.” I insisted.

“Go but the first sign of trouble you get your ass back here!” she hissed.

“Hai.” I said.

I grabbed my bag and ported to Walachia. I would start there and find the new ruler of the other uppyr faction; my uncle led the ones that did not gleefully kill ningen and youki alike. I changed form and put my canine nose and started sorting out different scents. If a mortal saw me they would probably faint but I could scent better in this form. I did pick up on bear youki and I moved towards the dens. I moved with stealth till I reached caves and I started howling loudly. Bear youki were low level beasts that did not understand much and not much language. They would know where a pack of blood drinkers were though. I saw two huge bears come to the cave entrance and they growled fiercely at me. I changed form and pulled my fang.

“I search for the uppyr!” I yelled in Russian.

“Go to Slovakia!” one yelled.

“Can you picture it in your mind?” I asked.

“You are a strange dog!” the other yelled.

I chuckled and I dipped into their minds.

“Thank you!” I called and ported away.

I appeared in a more rugged land and I was in a city. I looked around and looked at signs and I was able to ascertain the alphabet some. The city was called Buda. My hair was down and I could scent uppyr all over the place. The were mixed amongst the ningen and it was like Novgorod. I decided to cut to the chase and I pulsed my aura. That would get the higher up uppyr's attention. I did not wait long and I turned to see a brown haired green eyed male uppyr.

“Who are you?” he demanded in his Slavic tongue.

“Can you speak Russian?” I asked in Russian.

“Da! Who are you?” he demanded again.

“Who are you?” I asked raising a brow.

“Josef Corvinius.” He stated.

“I am Lady Asuna. I need to see Jarek Tepest.” I said.

“You killed Vlad!” he hissed.

“Da I did and I have grown a hell of a lot more powerful since then. Now we can do this the diplomatic way or I can start chopping off heads and running through hearts. You make the choice.” I said growling.

“You are half uppyr?” he said in disbelief.

I lifted my hand up and he proceeded to come off the ground.

“Put me down you fool!” he snapped.

“Alright.” I said dropping him.

He landed in a heap and I pointed my fang at his throat.

“I have wraith issues.” I said abruptly.

“You are in trouble.” He sneered.

“Da now I will see the Tepest or your head comes off. I recently beheaded my grandmere; one more youki would not bother me I assure you.” I said sarcastically.

“This way!” he said standing.

I sheathed my fang and he started walking. I followed behind him and kept my senses aware for betrayal. I was desperate as I was deep in very hostile territory. He led me to a grand mansion. He walked up the steps and opened the door. I slowly followed him and he went deep into the dwelling. I was led to what appeared a sitting room. There sat the son of my greatest adversary to date. His hair was black like his sire's but he looked up at me and his eyes were an incredible blue. Vlad had been quite magnificent in looks but depraved and disgusting. His son was clean shaven but his hair was long. He wore a velvet hat of sorts and he did not seem to know who or what I was.

“Josef?” he asked.

“This is Lady Asuna.” The brunette uppyr said snidely.

Jarek stood and hissed at me in fury. I stood my ground and blinked at him.

“You dare come here?” he asked me.

“I dare what I will. Your sire had issues with wraiths and managed to drive them back.” I stated to the point.

“Wraiths? You have made an enemy of a wraith? You are a monster.” He seethed.

“My former mate made the enemy! I killed her and got her brother's wrath. Now I come here because it seems you may have faced these creatures. I swear I will turn this whole city to a wasteland and then hand you over to the Steppe Wraiths that survived.” I threatened.

Jarek looked at me in horror and I was desperate. He sat and looked at me hard.

“You look like your mother.” He stated flatly.

“I look like my sire.” I snapped.

“Why would I want to help my father's murderer?” he asked.

I rushed him and had my hand around his throat. My hand started glowing green and he gasped in pain.

“Your sire drained an entire village of mortals because he was a sick fuck! He wanted my power and decided to try and take it. Now considering my yoki is part of me you can imagine I was rather unwilling to part with it.” I said in a rather nasty tone.

“You are a distant relation and you owed him fealty!” Jarek snapped.

“Like hell I did. I am the heir to the most powerful inu in Asia and I am royalty. Who the hell was he? He was a Hebrew merchant from Babylon named Eyal!” I yelled.

Jarek looked confused and I dropped him.

“You do not even know who your sire really was!” I said astonished.

“What I know is that my father ruled the uppyr. You murdered Stasio and Vlad.” He said straightening his clothes.

“Because my mother is uppyr does not mean she paid fealty to her own sire or yours. She is mated to inu royalty and frankly is happy for it. Now help me or die.” I said flatly.

“I have no choice then.” He said looking up at me.

“I am not giving you a choice as I was not given a choice. The difference is that I will not rape you.” I hissed.

He looked at me in disbelief. I growled and grabbed him up. I ported back to Shanghai with him and let go of him as if he was poison. We were in my study and I started going through books and scrolls.

“Where are we?” he demanded.

“My palace in Shanghai. I rule the city and surrounding land.” I said absently.

I pulled out a book and threw it on my desk. I went to it and opened it.

“That is a depiction of Bai Gu Jing. Her brother's name is Lei Jing. They are known here as the Shouten wraiths. Are they related to the Steppe wraiths?” I asked.

He looked closely at the picture and nodded. I sat down and bid him sit as well. He sat but he was furious with me.

“Where are the Steppes from?” I asked.

“Central Asia. Father believed them from Mongolia.” He said.

I considered what he said and there was a group of leopards known as snow leopards. I thought hard and decided to consult Chen.

“You may stay here as my guest. I have erected a barrier so do not think you will port away.” I said bluntly.

I grabbed a quill and parchment and wrote a quick letter to Chen asking him to come to Shanghai.

“How can I be your guest when I have no choice of leaving?” he snarled.

“I have not drained you so you cannot use your yoki.” I said standing.

-Mother I have Jarek Tepest here. I have an idea and could you and Lark come here? My barrier will let you pass. - I pathed.

She sighed in my head and ported in but a moment later. Lark was beside her and they stared at Jarek. He stared at my mother and she stared back.

“Traitor!” he hissed.

“Jarek grow up! I have so moved beyond that era and sphere. Your bastard father is dead. You have a chance at changing things for our kind and yet what? I on the other hand have a life.” My mother said sitting.

Lark snorted and sat as well.

“Shut up half breed!” Jarek hissed.

“Oh my goodness. Are you still a spoiled brat?” Lark asked sweetly.

“I have sent a letter to Changsha and Lord Chen Mother. I expect him here in two or three days at most. Since he is the most powerful tiger lord I think he may be able to deal with some snow leopards in Mongolia.” I said.

“Well he is a Byakko. Did he not say he still had tigers there?” she said leaning forward.

“Hai. I am thinking the Jings are from there but gibbons are a jungle creature.” I stated.

Lark was listening intently and we all but ignored Jarek.

“What the hell am I here for?” he demanded.

“To gather the uppyr together when the time calls and fight against the wraiths. I will do what I threatened I swear it.” I said with narrowed eyes.

“You birthed a monster Augusta!” he snapped to my mother.

“No I birthed a ruler.” She retorted.

I stood and walked out of my study and went to my chambers. I got into my armoire and pulled out a muted green hanfu. I shed my haori and hakamas and dragged the silk over my skin. I pulled my hair up and I went back to my study. I sat and called Shusin and requested wine be brought in. Jarek was staring at me in something other than hatred.

“Do you think I could call on Jin as well?” I asked my mother.

“I think dressed like that he would charge into Mongolia himself.” She smirked.

“Well then I will be back soon. Look after our guest?” I asked.

“Hai.” She smirked again.

My mother turned to Vlad's son and smiled rather widely. He looked uncomfortable and Lark winked at my mother. I wondered at their history and it was rather obvious they enjoyed his discomfiture. I ported to Guangzhou and the guards still let me pass. I was being ogled and I nodded to them. A soldier bid me follow him and he led me to the dojo of the four story palace. Jin was stripped to his waist and he was cut with hard lines and chiseled muscles. He looked up at me and he stopped sparring. I had never before appeared to him in Chinese dress.

“Asuna.” He said softly.

“Hello Jin.” I bowed.

I recognized his commander of his army and he bowed. His commander left and Jin just stared at me.

“I need your help.” I said softly.

“You have it.” He stated without thought.

He moved to me and pulled me to him. He stared into my eyes and I did not fight him. He started kissing me and I reached up and wrapped my arms around his neck. I was so weary but I kept my shields up because it could easily become messy. Jin was a very strong telepath and I had truly never seen the extent of his power. His lips were on my neck and I leaned my head back. I did not care at the moment and his exquisite lips heated my flesh. He lifted his lips and I looked at him.

“I am sorry. Your attire suits you.” He said trying to pull away.

I said nothing and pulled his lips back down to mine. I invaded his mouth and started growling softly. My hands were in his short brown hair as I poured my grief into the melding of our flesh. He tore himself from me and I whined a little.

“You said you needed my help.” He said backing up.

“Hai. Wraith youki are aiding the Ming.” I said stepping forward.

“Jing?” he questioned.

“Hai.” I said pressing him against the wall.

It was not like him to shy away from me and I was intrigued. My hands splayed across his chest and I traced along his abdominal muscles.

“Asuna this is not what you want. I know you well enough. You are grieving and when you grieve you seek physical joining.” He said softly.

“Hai I am grieving. You surprise me.” I stated in a low tone.

“You need my help to fight these creatures and you have it.” He said turning his head.

I turned his jaw back to mine and sighed softly.

“Will you hunt with me? I am restless and I could use the company.” I stated.

“Hai.” He nodded.

I walked slowly to exit the palace and he followed. I transformed and lowered my nose to him.

“Kamis if you are not the most beautiful bitch.” He murmured.

I licked his face and he smiled. I licked him again and he looked up at me.

“Asuna stop.” He sighed.

I licked him again and he kissed my nose. I changed back and grazed my lips against his throat.

“I have not seen your true self in a very long time.” I mumbled.

“No you have not.” He mumbled as well.

“I am curious if you have rutted in your true form.” I whispered.

“Have you?” he asked surprised.

I looked at him and he searched my eyes. I did not answer him until he answered mine.

“No. It truly never presented itself.” He said breathing rather hard.

“It is unique.” I said running my hands through his hair.

“You are not the same onna.” He said softly.

“You are right. I hate myself quite a bit you know but I have become more brazen.” I said candidly.

“Truly you have rutted in your true form?” he asked me.

“Hai. It is rather beautiful actually. I am sorry you have made it clear you do not wish for this. I need food.” I said pulling away.

I transformed and took off into the woods. I felt him change as well and we proceeded to hunt and catch our own deer. I fed and it soothed me to have another inu around for now. He was eyeing me as he fed and I him. I finished my meal and took off for a water source. I wet my muzzle and used my paws to clean my snout. I drank some water and lay down with my head between my paws. Jin came over and lay next to me. He did not speak and neither did I. I enjoyed the noises and I went to sleep.

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Jin and I were still in our true forms and we both were lying against the other. I lifted my head and sensed another inu. Jin sensed as well and he stood up. He moved through the woods and I followed suit. Sheng stood there and was surprised to see me and Jin.

“Asuna?” he asked.

I transformed and nodded to him. Jin snorted and turned to move away.

“Look I wanted to talk to you. Jun said you were out here.” He said.

“Can you meet me in Shanghai soon Jin?” I asked.

He woofed softly and I nodded. I walked away to give the brothers privacy. Sheng called to me and I turned.

“Thanks.” He said.

“I still love you Sheng. I would give you the world if you asked; I just realized sooner that it would not be together.” I said bowing.

He looked at me and Jin saw my eyes. I bowed to both and ported away. I was in Shanghai again and I found my mother studying maps.

“What did you do to Jarek?” I asked.

“Oh we made him remember old days.” She smirked.

“You fed off of him?” I asked shocked.

“Hai! I did. So did Lark.” She said laughing.

I shook my head and sat down.

“Chen should be here soon I think.” I said in a tired voice.

“Suna baby girl go to sleep for a little while and not in your true form where you know damn well you do not rest as well.” She said.

“I will go. Jin is helping us and could you keep Chen away from Jin?” I asked.

“I can keep Chen occupied.” She nodded.

“Thank you.” I said standing up and going to my chambers.

I had purposely cut myself off from Ishin so I would not possibly endanger him. I slipped out of my hanfu and crawled onto my futon and pulled my coverlet over me. I laid there and sobbed silently like I did a lot as of late. I prayed to the Kamis to make Naraku heal quickly and to forgive me. I laid there but did not sleep. I did not notice the passage of the time or anything else. My mother opened the door and she whispered something and just stated hai. I felt Jin standing there and sat up with the coverlet covering my front.

“Sheng has said he wishes to mend fences and get to know us.” He said softly.

“That would be good for both of you. You are brothers and he needs you even if he thinks he does not.” I replied.

“I know he loves you but it has changed.” He said not understanding.

“He is my trusted friend. He does not judge me and he knows me very well. He could not accept my current state of affairs. He tried but it did not work. I told Kaito I could accept that and that is what has happened.” I shrugged.

“I cannot get over you. I have tried and I miss you. I miss sparring with you and making love to you. I get torn up thinking that you have fallen in love with Quon Hu.” He said in anger.

“Jin, I do not understand it. Please sit.” I said standing wrapping the silk around my torso. I went to a side board and poured him a cup of sake and myself. I handed it to him and he was surprised.

“I thought you did not like sake.” He stated.

“That is the type of sake that the West keeps in its cellars. You know Toga was my brother in my previous life. I wrangled the secret of where it is made.” I smirked.

“Where?” he asked sipping it.

“Taiwan.” I laughed.

“Your grandsire liked Chinese sake?” Jin chuckled.

“Hai.” I said downing mine.

“Asuna slow down.” He said softly.

“Jin I am in my own palace. I shall do as I please.” I said pouring more.

“What has you so devastated?” he asked me.

“Nothing. I just feel like this right now.” I said picking up the bottle and bringing it with me.

“Onna you have become harder and even more cynical than you were.” He commented.

“What does it matter? I am in the palace I inherited from Tekeshi. Did you know I have doubled his lands? I am a much more effective administrator than he was. He was too kind for being a lord. I am a cold hearted bitch.” I laughed.

“You were raised to rule. You have learned from a young age to do just that. Tekeshi fought in many battles and was a fabulous warrior. Asuna give me the sake.” He said standing.

He tried to take it from me and I jerked it back and he pulled forward and spilled it all over him. He looked annoyed as hell and I moved forward and laved my tongue along the hollow of his throat.

“Asuna stop.” He demanded.

I looked up at him and I was in a very nasty mood.

“If it tears you up so much then prove that an inu is better!” I taunted him.

“You are stepping down another dangerous road Asuna. I have told you before I am not to be trifled with.” He hisses softly.

“Oh hai Jin you are so scary. Panyu is feared and is great to be sure but what makes you different from any other state? Do you fear me? I am sure you do not.” I said grabbing my sake back.

“I fear you in some ways. I do not fear you in battle as I do not see that happening but you are powerful in many ways. I always thought to make you see my reason and try to calm you and tame you; I see that it is impossible. Maybe that is why the Byakko and you are good together; tigers do not seem to overly value one certain mate.” He said flippantly.

“Oh I have seen otherwise. Lord Chen favors his chief mate and his second. They are the only two he beds. The others are for decoration for the other tigers.” I giggled.

“Asuna how old is this sake?” he asked.

“Two maybe three centuries. I took it from the Western cellars.” I giggled.

“You know sake gets more potent as it ages. Dumb onna you are drunk.” Jin snapped.

I smirked at him and dropped my covers. He turned his head and I jerked it back.

“Do you remember the woods outside of the Western Palace?” I asked him.

“Hai.” He said hoarsely.

“I want you Jin. I am telling you I want you right now.” I said licking along his jaw.

He refused to look at me and I growled softly. I was watching him and I pulled away. I went to my futon and lay on my back and watched him. I decided to be totally wicked and got on my hands and knees. I did not do this ever and I heard his breathing hitch. I bared my neck and he growled loudly.

“I need you to help me.” I whispered to him.

Jin moved slowly to me and lifted me up and started exacting moans from me quickly as he thoroughly kissed me. I pulled my lips from his and nipped at his jaw and his neck.

“Take me in our way Jin.” I asked of him.

“I would lose it. I would lose myself.” He stated scenting my neck.

“Lose yourself?” I asked as I felt his lips skimming his exposed clavicle.

“Hai.” He stated in a very hoarse whisper.

I loosened the ties to his ku and he tried to stop me for a moment and I pulled them down. I lifted his arms and pulled his pein-fu off. I pressed my body to his as I gripped his backside roughly.

“You have changed.” He stated in a passionate voice.

“I will submit to you.” I said roughly.

“I do not want that!” he said in anger.

“I do!” I said.

I pulled away from him and went to my futon and got on my hands and knees. I heard him groan and I looked back and he was behind me. I closed my eyes and he slipped into my depths. I lowered my head and moaned. He was still for half a moment and he started moving. He was incredible in this as always and I tried to push myself back on him harder. He held my hips as he moved himself back and forth. I wanted to force him to control this totally for some reason. I suppose my self recrimination had something to with it. I tightened my core on him as much as I could and he grunted at the sensation. He was trying to not lose control but I slammed my mind into his and he moaned. Jin began ramming into me and I cried out at the quickness of his thrusts. My claws gouged the futon and I suppressed the loud moans. Thoughts of my promise to him flitted across my mind. He was so good at this and I was awash in the physicality of it. I wanted to release and I growled to him. I felt his fingertips at my center and he applied light pressure and massaged my nub. I tightened almost instantly and he groaned softly. He stiffened and released rather violently. I released as well and let out a satisfied grunt. He withdrew and fell to his side. I lay on my stomach and watched his breathing return to normal. I moved over to him and kissed his mouth softly. His blue eyes flew open and he shut them again.

“Are you alright?” I asked.

“Quick encounters have never been my style.” He murmured.

“Well I felt a pressing need.” I muttered.

He sat and he smirked. He realized something was afoot and he proceeded to dress quickly.

“You do not have to leave yet!” I exclaimed in surprise.

“It occurred to me that I would never get what I wanted or needed from you as a mate. If I am your lover; there are no expectations.” He stated quietly.

I laid my head down and he was right. Together as a proper inu couple we were terrible but as this it worked.

“You will be angry when my guest arrives.” I said closing my eyes for the fireworks.
”I imagine it is Lord Chen Hu. I shall refrain from seeing him as little as possible.” He stated in a tight voice.

“He is my father in law.” I said looking at him.

“Of course and we could not have the Byakko Lord tell his precious son that you were alone with the Panyu Lord.” He said snidely.

“I am glad you see my position.” I said defensively.

“I shall endeavor to do well as your dirty secret Asuna.” He snapped.

“Jin stop being you for half a moment. Kamis you are so self righteous. I told you to mate Teegan.” I hissed.

“Well honestly Asuna that would leave me wanting. You are the most excellent lover I have had; you are you no matter what position you put yourself in.” he smirked.

It was a back handed compliment and I narrowed my eyes at him. I got up and grabbed a dressing gown from my armoire.

“I am going to the river to bathe.” I stated.

“Of course. You cannot have inu stink all over you.” He sneered.

I walked over to him and pulled his head down into my juncture.

“It is a very decadent scent and one I wish I had time to lick off your body but I have wraiths to find.” I whispered licentiously in his ear.

He looked at me in profound lust and I ported away to the river. Jin could think and do as he pleased. I had things to do.