InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Partners in Crime ( Chapter 60 )

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

 

Partners in Crime

 

I was hunting in Vietnam and I was beginning to become famished all the time. Nobu assured me it was normal. Ishin took every opportunity to feel his daughter move and he showed Naraku how to feel her as well. They would argue and fight but it was about matters of state and not out of hatred. Naraku actually had the cooler head of the two and that surprised me. Karu and Mizuki had become very close and terrorized their fathers. Ishin had walked straight into my daughter's webs several times and we discovered that her silk was nearly translucent. Karu was jealous of it and she loved it. I put my nose to the ground and found the scent of a boar and my stomach grumbled. I took off after the wild pig when I was overcome with dread. I looked around and started snarling. Lei Jing stood very casually against a tree and my Dakkasou began steaming from my saliva.

“You are a hard bitch to find. I imagine it is the blood sucker in you. You gave me wet dreams whore; a female gave me wet dreams. No matter though; I shall enjoy ripping your heart out!” he sneered.

I changed form and drew my fang. He was fully regenerated and it had been faster then expected. He moved on me and I had to block his morphed arm over and over. He could port and appear very quickly and was doing it. He appeared right behind me and grabbed me around my waist. I began kicking and trying to claw at him. I was snarling and growling and he threw me to the ground.

“Gods I swear I will tear you apart.” He growled at me.

“How? Your prick would fail before you could. Besides your claws are not sharp enough!” I hissed at him.

“Bai was an idiot when she fell in love with the green eyed dog. I told her he was a whoremonger but she did not listen. She left our home for years at a time. I found out about her son much later.” He said snickering as he used he glass like appendage to slice open my haori.

“She turned her hatred to me when I had no clue! I fought Katashi for her son!” I hissed again.

“But you killed my big sister. You killed her as though she were nothing!” he screamed.

“She tried to kill me first! I tried to do the right thing when I found out the truth.” I growled.

“What did you do with her body?” he demanded.

“It was burned.” I retorted.

“Burned? You burned her?” he said slashing my chest with his claws.

His shoki hurt terribly and I snarled at him.

“It is Japanese custom to burn a body! I hated her but she was given a funeral at least!” I yelled.

“Well you fucked her lover. She never got over him and his abandonment of her.” He hissed.

“That was not my problem!” I snapped.

“It became your problem when you spread your legs for him!” he said in a nasty tone.

“You are a monster.” I said slapping him.

“Oh I am the monster. You keep my nephew from half of himself. Now you keep my niece as well.” He said darkly.

“Your niece does not like you.” I laughed.

“No she does not because she would whore herself out like her mother did!” he said in a dangerous tone.

“Whore? What the hell are you? You are an ass loving whoremonger yourself.” I said challenging him.

“I am going to make you suffer you hear me?” he stated roughly in my ear.

He sank his fangs into my neck and I gasped at the pain. His behavior was almost uppyr like in nature and I felt him lick the wounds he had inflicted. I began kicking and screaming and he covered my mouth with his hand.

“I do very much prefer the male body but in order to hurt you I could make the exception. I have not had a virgin in awhile you know.” He purred.

My eyes widened at his words and I began shrieking. He forcefully turned me over and I began fighting harder. He was easily suppressing my uppyr half and I was relying on my inu self.

“Why attack by yourself!” I yelled.

“Oh you made this very personal.” He laughed.

“You did that when you took Naraku.” I hissed.

“Keep making so much noise and I imagine he will see me take you!” he laughed louder.

His shoki seeped from his claws and it wrapped around my hands. I watched in horror as it solidified. I tried to scream in my mind but he laughed above me.

“I had just wanted your delicious Naraku because he was just so damned gorgeous. Now your spider is just as delectable but you…no this is revenge.” He remarked.

“Get off of me.” I shrieked again.

“I have been dreaming of pummeling your sweet ass inu. I want to see you beg me not to!” he snarled.

“Cannot make yourself take a female? I figured as much.” I hissed at him.

He forcefully turned me over and I saw he had freed himself. He was very much aroused and bent over me.

“I am curious what your cunt would feel like. Shall I try?” he mocked me.

“Sadistic fuck!” I screamed at him.

I had infuriated him and he forcefully pried my thighs apart. He was going to rape me and I intended to fight him tooth and nail. He seemed to hesitate and then he slammed into me. His dark eyes widened and I screamed. He stared down at me and slammed into me again. It was painful and I tried to fight him. His breathing was rough as he began licking my neck.

“This is different.” He said harshly in my ear.

I spit at him and he chuckled in delight. He sat up some and pummeled me harder and I closed my eyes to shut out the pain. His claws pierced my skin in several places and I screamed again. I was away from the mansion some distance and it would take time to find me. He suddenly withdrew and I laughed at him.

“Seems you cannot come. Sorry bastard.” I hissed at him.

“Oh I am trying your other entrance my dear. I told you I have not had a virgin in awhile.” He sneered.

“NO!” I yelled at him.

“Oh yes.” He snapped.

He found my clit and began pinching and rolling it. I gasped and began thrashing in anger.

“Stop!” I screamed again.

“I rather like your cunt whore. I like it very much.” He purred as he slipped a couple of fingers in.

“You are coating my fingers now. Good.” He snickered.

I was growling in fury and he slipped those same fingers between the cheeks of my backside. I grunted in pain as he slipped them in. He growled softly and I started trying to fight him with my mind.

“Will not work on me whore. I told you wraiths and uppyr descend from a common ancestor.” He purred.

He spread my backside and he pushed into me. I cried out at the awful stretching as his member pushed past the tight hole. I heard him grunt loudly and the burning became worse. He was muttering in what I came to know was Mongolian. He began withdrawing and slamming into me. It felt awful at first and I bit my lip to stop from crying out at the pain. I felt him start to massage my nub again and I gasped.

“You will climax for me and feel dirty for it. You will want to rip my own heart out as you did Bai's. Gods you feel so good.” He moaned.

I tried to fight the building and tightening pleasure and I was horrified. Lei was moaning softly and I wanted to claw his eyes out for it. I bit my own tongue and cheeks to stop from crying out. He withdrew from my backside and relief flooded me. He reentered my core and I nearly choked. He was moaning louder this time and his claws began digging deeper into me and I felt him purposely release his wraith's poison. I screamed in awful pain and I felt him insert a finger again in my backside. He began a much quicker pace and the dual penetration sent me over the edge and I convulsed around him so tightly he shouted. I felt him climax and his claws dug even deeper. He did not withdraw right away but finally did. My backside and hips were aching in profound pain.

“Well your pussy is sweet inu. I have never done that and I find it addicting. Your cunt squeezed my cock tighter than your ass could.” He chuckled.

He leaned forward and sucked my lower lip into his mouth and bit it. I shouted and he pulled away.

“Remember you little whore you made this between us now. I think I shall let your yummy men to find you. Gods you felt amazing.” He swore.

He stood and I saw him disappear into his mist. He had released me from his hold and tears did stream down my face. I crawled forward and began shrieking. I tried to port but I could not concentrate to do it. I did not want Ishin and Naraku to find me as such. I cried out in my mind to one of the few who could hear me. I did not want my mates going after Lei Jing for this. Eyal appeared and he looked horrified. He put his hands on my bindings and he shred them with his claws.

“Please take me anywhere but do not let them find me like this.” I said as tears slipped down my face.

“Shhh.” He said softly.

He gathered me in his arms and he ported us to the castle in Buda. He laid me on the bed I had been on before and I rolled away from him. I was furious that the bastard had overpowered me. I had no true idea of wraith power and I was angry at myself for allowing myself to be taken against my will. I sat up in a fit of rage and I felt the uppyr king's hands on my shoulder.

“It was just an act of dominance and nothing more.” I said furiously.

“Yes it was meant to hurt you on a basic level.” He said softly.

“Please get his shoki out of me before it spreads.” I said in disgust.

“Alright.” He said lowering his fangs to my hip and began taking out the tainted life force.

My mind was screaming in fury but Eyal's care was making me feel other things. I was pretty sure he felt guilt at the moment but his bite was causing intense delight to course through me. I was glad he wished me to call him something other than Vlad. I felt him move his mouth to my other hip and repeat the process. I refused to let Lei hurt me using sex to do it. I heard him breathe hard and pull back.

“Do you have a bath here?” I asked.

“Yes on the main floor.” He said.

I dipped into his mind and I ported us both there. I stripped out of the bloodied clothes and threw them with some anger and sank into the European tub. I turned the faucets and Eyal looked at me.

“I am less inhibited around you because we have been intimate.” I stated as I began scrubbing my skin.

“I see. May I assist you?” he asked.

“Hai. Get my back please.” I said in a softer tone.

He took the cloth from me and began cleaning my back and the deep claw wounds. He was being tender and very understanding. I looked back at him and his brown eyes caught me off guard. I leaned my head back and began kissing him. It caught him off guard as well and I could tell he was trying to not get too amorous. He reached over and turned the water off and I pulled him into the water. His expensive linens and velvet brocades were sopping wet. He looked down at me and smirked.

“How is it you are so rich?” I asked.

“I have a business head. I rule several states in Eastern Europe and taxes are one way.” He admitted.

“I refuse to allow his use of my body to affect me.” I said rather bluntly.

“That is a good attitude to have.” He remarked.

I began unlacing his breeches and he looked at me with rather passion filled eyes.

“In fact I want you to teach me everything you know about wraiths and I wish to publicly accept you as an ally. I will not go so far as pay fealty to you but I think this would help the uppyr fracture that I helped create.” I stated.

“I do not require that. I can make us one again.” He said softly.

“Can you?” I asked him raising a brow.

He looked at me and realized what he had said and then shook his head in amusement. Lei would feel my wrath at the end of my fang and I would surprise the bastard. I opened my thighs and pulled Eyal down and he met my lips. I pulled him forward by his hips and he slid into me. He shut his eyes and I could hear his thoughts of too soon.

“No! It is not if I say it is not.” I snapped.

“You are angry even if you think you are not.” He said softly.

“Then make it different.” I challenged him.

“Allow me to take your blood then.” He said.

I nodded and he lowered his lips to the top of one breast. He bit in and I lost all coherent that as I was taken into immediate rapture. My mother was right and this was addicting. I forgot the pain that Lei inflicted and went with what Eyal was doing.

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Lark stood in the doorway of her sister's study and watched her finish some letters. Augusta was sore and tired. Sesshomaru had been rather amorous of late and he sleeping at the moment. She stood up and smiled at her younger sister. She took her arm and smiled.

“Do the males of the species go through a sort of heat?” she asked softly.

“Hai. It is normally no big deal but I have been gone more often as of late. I need to stay around here another say or two.” She chuckled.

“Well then I shall be very pleased to stay around as well.” She smiled.

“I am going to check on him and I will meet you in the gardens.” Augusta said heading to her chambers.

Lark nodded and went in the opposite direction. Augusta made it to her rooms and she watched Sesshomaru sleep. This was not a common occurrence so nobody thought anything of it. He had worn himself out and she bent over to kiss his lips softly. His eyes flew open and they were red. She smiled down at him and he groaned.

“Darling are you hurting?” she asked.

“Hai.” He murmured.

“How much longer?” she asked as she began to stroke him.

“A day or two.” He groaned.

“I am so sorry. I know how much you hate losing control.” She said softly.

He arched his hips and she lowered her mouth to his throat and bit in gently. He growled loudly as she spread the consuming bliss. He was panting softly and he grabbed her. She was surprised and looked at him.

“You are in heat.” He snarled.

“Sesshomaru try and calm yourself my love.” She tried to calm his beast.

“Ours!” he snarled at her.

“Hai I am yours. Do you really wish for this right now?” she asked him.

He pushed her down and scented her closely through her silks. He growled very loudly and ripped the silk from her body. She bared her neck to him and the little bit of his rational mind hated what he was doing. She had been with him long enough to know he abhorred losing control of anything. He wrapped his fangs around her throat and growled again. She kept her head turned and mewled softly. She acted the proper inu way and he hated himself at the moment. He released her throat and began scenting her closely. She scented of him and their unions and his beast was very pleased. Her scent was driving his beast further into a mindless lust.

“Go!” he hissed.

“No you need me right now.” She said holding his face.

“Pupped. You will get pupped.” He ground out.

“Do you want that right now? I love feeling your pup move within me.” She stated.

“Too soon.” He ground out again.

“Let me help you another way alright?” she asked him.

He closed his eyes and nodded with difficulty. Her telling him what she did warmed his heart to no end. He was frustrated and needed her badly. She pushed him back and laid him down. She took him in her mouth and he groaned loudly. She brought him to the brink and then over. He growled out as his body stiffened and she moaned herself. His inner nature was screaming at him to take his bitch. He fought himself and rolled to his side. Youshiro had been conceived in the midst of one of his episodes.

“Sesshomaru.” She stated softly as she massaged his scalp with her claws.

“Hn.” He growled out.

“My heart I am here for you as you have been for me all these years. Do as you need and we will deal with what happens. You love me and would not hurt me. If you need your bitch then you should take your bitch.” She said softly.

He snarled and grabbed her again. She had gotten onto her hands and knees and he slid into her. He did not hurt her in the least and the friction caused his mate to start crying out his name. His mind was more focused for the moment and reveled in her body. His hands roamed over her back and backside; he leaned forward and scented her neck. She had not bathed his scent off of her and it drove him mad. He began to move in her more urgently and she was gasping his name. He sank his fangs into her neck and she spasmed around him and he released her throat and roared. He fell to the futon with her still connected. His mind was completely clear for the moment and he held her close. She leaned her head back and kissed him passionately. He sighed into her mouth and she slowly pulled away.

“I pray I did not get you pupped. I am sorry.” He growled softly.

“Silly inu! You are fine and I feel wonderful.” She stretched.

“Augusta when you bear me a pup I am terrified.” He said seriously.

“Well you can calm down. We have five pups from well over a century of being mated. I would say we are doing fine.” She chuckled.

“I have no wish to lose you.” He said running his hand through her ebony hair.

“You shall not. I am to damn stubborn to die. If I am pregnant we deal with it and I shall hope for another silver haired pup.” She said kissing him lightly.

“Kamis you are a wonder. Most inu bitches would have complained by now.” He murmured.

“Well I am sore but I know you have had to put up with my blood lusts.” She stated.

“I know your sister is visiting. I shall try and present myself for dinner.” He stated closing his eyes.

“Do not push yourself my love.” She said standing.

“I wish to think clearly Augusta. I hate this instinct to rut like a mindless animal.” He said glowering.

“We all have instincts, yours are stronger than most. You are full inu and you need to do what you need. I shall check in on you.” She said slipping on a simple yukata.

“Thank you.” He murmured sleepily.

“Oh it is my pleasure.” She said with mirth.

She slipped from the chambers to let him rest. So far Osamu had showed no signs of having a male heat as it was called. It could hit him later too as it had hit her mate when he was closer to two centuries. She went to the gardens and sat next to Lark.

“Is he alright?” she asked.

“He will be. Sesshomaru is a very centered and controlled individual. It is what makes him fearsome on a battlefield. His enemies never seem to make him hot headed and lose control. It was rather funny seeing him lose it the first time he and I rutted.” She smirked.

“Is he passionate?” she said doubtfully.

“Very. He can overwhelm one with his intensity. He is also an amazing lover and a great friend.” She said sweetly.

“He seems like a cold fish to me.” Lark shrugged,

“You are used to William and his tirades.” Augusta laughed.

“I am. He has many bouts of temper.” She said softly.

“Lark what are you saying?” Augusta said taking her hands.

“Nothing! Do not be a goose. Come I wish to see all of the palace and then maybe purchase some silk for some dresses.” She said standing.

Augusta nodded and followed her half sister. She climbed the steps and Augusta began to wonder. They ended up at the table in the Great Hall drinking sake and getting terribly drunk. Sesshomaru did make an appearance and noticed his mate's high color.

“Augusta?” he asked softly.

“My darling! You look good enough to eat!” she snickered.

“You got into my sake?” he asked slightly amused.

“Just two bottles. Wait maybe it was three. I do not know!” she started giggling.

“Lady Pemberton are you well?” he asked his sister in law.

“Very! I love this stuff. Elizabeth needs it in her court. She is wily old mortal you know. God she wants to behead William.” Lark said laughing.

“Why?” Augusta asked.

He realized his mate was not as drunk as she was appearing and she was pumping her for information. Sesshomaru sat and poured himself a little shot of the fiery liquid.

“William has just a tad of demon in him as well. Did not know that did you? Well he likes things his way.” She said laughing harder.

“What ways?” her sister asked.

“Do not fret Augusta. I am half uppyr remember?” she said waving her hand in the air.

“Why are you wearing such a heavy frock?” Augusta demanded.

“Pardon?” Lark asked her.

“I want to see if he has hurt you.” She snapped.

“Augusta it is not your business!” she hissed.

“It is my business! You tried to save me when I was depressed.” She said standing.

“Augusta do not.” Lark cried.

The Western Lady tore open the heavy velvet bodice of her dress and found bluish bruises all over her sister's arms. Sesshomaru hissed in anger and Augusta's eyes flashed crimson.

“How dare he lay a finger on you like this!” she yelled.

“I made him angry! Stop it please!” Lark said sobbing.

Augusta ripped open the under gown and found a huge bruise on her abdomen and she staggered back. She looked at her baby sister's face and fury took hold of her.

“What is that?” she demanded.

“He does not want a child.” She said crying.

“He is a dead man.” Augusta said furiously.

“No! He did not mean it.” Lark said standing.

“Sesshomaru please take my sister to our chambers.” She said in terrible anger.

“Augusta think before you act.” He said calmly.

“I am thinking. Lark you will not go back to him. You will stay here for now and I swear he is a dead man!” she snarled.

Augusta walked from the Great Hall and went to her room and changed into the rare haori and hakamas. She was shaking so badly that she had a hard time concentrating. She ported to Hunan first for what she did not know but she had appeared in the throne room. Her eyes were burning in their intensity and Meifen saw her first.

“Dear Augusta! What is wrong?” she asked softly.

“I am fixing to go against everything I believe.” She growled.

Chen cam upon the scene as well as Aleksei. Augusta stalked up to the Amur and bowed.

“How many of the royal families do you know in Mother Russia?” she asked.

“Most of them, what is wrong?” he asked concerned.

“I am fixing to murder my brother in law and Lark will need a place to hide. I will not have her hunted down because her husband beats her!” she growled.

“Augusta?” Chen asked softly.

“Do not try and talk me out of it. She was pregnant and she now has a bruise instead of a baby!” she cried in fury.

“Go and bring your sister here when you need. I stay between here and Kirov.” The Amur lord stated.

“Chen and Meifen I shall see you soon.” Augusta bowed.

Meifen looked at Chen and was trying to get him to go. He nodded no and stalked away. Aleksei grabbed Augusta and whirled her around.

“I will help you. I can pass for a mortal.” He stated.

“Thank you.” She said.

She grabbed Aleksei and ported them to outside of the Pemberton estate. She wrung her hands and looked the tiger hanyou.

“She will do good to be in Russia again. I will not be pleasant Lord Aleksei.” She warned him.

“I did not expect you would be.” He said softly.

“Alright here we go.” She said taking his hand and porting inside.

She scented the air and found his scent. She was going to drain him and then decide what to do with him. She busted open the bedroom door and found him with a brunette woman. She snarled and he scrambled off of the woman.

“I suggest you leave if you value your life.” Augusta growled.

“Yes.” She said grabbing her clothes.

“What do you want?” he demanded.

“Justice for my sister. You hit her? You abuse her till she miscarried your child?” she screamed.

“She did not ask if I wanted it.” He stated indignantly.

“Do you have any idea what I really am?” Augusta hissed.

“You're a blood drinker.” He said arrogantly.

“Much more than that.” She said raising her hand and jerked it.

William Pemberton was thrown forcefully against the wall and shouted in pain. Augusta lifted him up without even touching him and she stalked forward.

“You will die and you will die horribly.” She said.

“Go ahead.” He sneered.

She grabbed his balls and twisted them in a fury and he screamed an agonizing scream. She bit into his throat and ripped it out. She did not even want to drink it. She allowed him to fall to the floor and she stepped over him.

“You will bleed to death and you will have time to think on what you did before Saint Peter throws your sorry ass back to hell!” she hissed.

Aleksei watched in utter amazement as they uppyr female stalked past him. She had not needed help and in fact he was a little frightened. She grabbed his hand and ported back to the Western Palace. Sesshomaru looked over him and he narrowed his eyes.

“He is a Russian noble as well as the lord of the Amur tigers. He can hide Lark in Siberia for now.” She stated matter of factly.

“What did you do Augusta?” Sesshomaru asked.

“He is bleeding to death on his bedroom floor. I also ripped his testicles to pieces.” She said unemotionally.

“I see.” The Western Lord stated.

Augusta stalked into her chambers and found her sister huddled in the corner. Augusta grabbed a hanfu from her armoire and began slowly undressing her sister. She helped her slide the hanfu of cream on. She held her close and Augusta began sobbing into Lark's shoulder. Sesshomaru came in slowly and he felt his mate's pain.

“Why did you not run away?” she asked her.

“Go where? I had a life in England. I was one of the Queen's ladies in waiting. I thought I could put up with it.” She said crying herself.

“I did not raise you myself because I was on the run and that was no life for a little girl. I gave you to those mortals so you would be safe! I did not hand you over to lose you to some asinine creep!” she hissed.

“I am sorry Augusta.” She cried heavily.

“No, I am sorry. I should have protected you. I should have seen the truth sooner.” Augusta said brushing her sister's hair off her forehead.

She held her close and felt miserable. She gently pulled her up and out to meet the Amur Lord. Sesshomaru watched and felt regret rip through his gut at his own treatment and jealousy of Inuyasha.

“Lord Aleksei this is my sister Lady Lark Pemberton. Will you keep her hidden for awhile? There is sure to be fallout in England over his death.” Augusta stated.

“I am happy to assist you Princess.” He said bowing.

“Can you teleport?” Augusta asked Aleksei.

“No, I cannot.” He said with a small smile.

“I shall be right back my heart.” She said to Sesshomaru.

He nodded and Augusta ported the three of them to Hunan. Chen and Meifen looked up and Chen was relieved. Augusta held her sister close as Chen came forward.

“It is done?” he asked softly.

“Hai. You look too much youki. I understand that Chen. Please do not feel guilty.” She said softly.

“Thank you. I have no wish to make waves in such a foreign land.” He said bowing.

“Aleksei has agreed to bring her back to Siberia for now. I have to get back to Sesshomaru. He is not well at the moment.” Augusta said bowing.

“Your mate is unwell?” Chen asked surprised.

“It is an inu thing. I really must go.” She said porting away.

Meifen went to Lark and pulled her into a hug and Lord Aleksei came up to Chen. He shook his head and Chen sighed.

“She killed the sorry bastard rather viciously. I hope I never make an enemy of her.” The Amur stated bluntly.

“What did she do?” Chen asked in shock.

“She ripped his throat out and nearly twisted his testicles right off.” He said with a shudder.

“Damn.” Chen said in a whisper.

Augusta appeared back in her chambers and broke down. Her baby sister had been hurt horribly and had suffered silently. Sesshomaru wrapped his arms around her and held her close as she sobbed. His mind was full of guilt and he decided he was going to Edo to see his own sibling.

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Sesshomaru stood at the edge of Edo and he slowly walked up to his brother's home. Kagome was outside pulling weeds from her herb garden and she looked up. She seemed surprised at seeing him.

“Sesshomaru?” she asked.

“Hai. Where is my brother?” he asked.

“He is in the forest bagging some meat for dinner.” She said not thinking.

“Bagging?” The Western Lord asked confused.

“Hunting.” She said laughing.

He nodded and went into the forest to find his baby brother and face the creature that resembled his chichi so much. He found Inuyasha fixing to take down a deer and he casually flicked his wrist and his Dakkasou released as a blade and the beast fell at his brother's feet. Inuyasha turned and stared at him coldly.

“What the fuck was that for?” he demanded.

“Eloquent as ever little brother.” He snorted.

“Well whatcha doin gracing us worthless people with your oh so mighty self.” Inuyasha snapped getting the deer.

“I wished to converse with you.” He said thinly.

“Bout what? You rarely leave your lofty perch to acknowledge anyone but your own brats and mate.” Inuyasha growled.

“I failed you.” He admitted.

“What? Course you did, we have established that I am a fucking hanyou and you are a pure blood asshole!” Inuyasha ranted.

“Inuyasha, I have been angry for a long time. Our sire loved you far more then he ever loved me. He hated my mother and loved yours. He bequeathed you Tetsaiga and me what I thought was a worthless fang.” He stated.
”You have been pissed at me cause our chichi made choices that I had no control over. Yeah real fucking brilliant Sesshomaru. I had to grow up alone and unloved just like you cause you were mad.” The hanyou raged.

“You are right. I have no defense in my actions and all I can say is that I am sorry I blamed you for our sire's stupidity.” Sesshomaru said softly.

“Well that is just fucking great Sesshomaru. Kinda too little too late. I am all grown up now and you can take your guilt and shove it up your arrogant ass.” Inuyasha stated stomping past his elder brother.

“You have no idea what it was like growing up in that hatred! My own mother used me for her own ends and my sire could barely stand me because the Kamis made me favor her! I wished every day that he could see past her and see me! He never did and when he fell in love with your mother, he was unattainable. Izayoi was his everything. He fought the dragon and died saving you. I had been injured almost unto death before and he told me to quit sniveling and get to Yasu. He died saving you and your mother and could not spare a kind word to his first born!” Sesshomaru raged.

“Look I am sorry he was a bastard and I have met your mother. Asuna did the best thing in beheading that bitch but I was a pup! A newborn pup and you blamed me. You could have taken me in when my mother died but I was a Kamis damn hanyou! You made sure that I knew I was not worthy of your notice or anyone! You were my brother and you did the same fucking thing he did!” Inuyasha snarled.

Sesshomaru was taken back in his brother's words. His brother was right and he had treated him the same way and he grew sick to his stomach. He had tried to be a better father than his own but he had ruined his relationship with his brother.

“I am sorrier than I can say. I was over four centuries your senior and I should have raised you.” He acknowledged.

“Damn right you should have! You should have done a lot of things! A human girl got more love from you then your own flesh and blood! Look there ain't no reason to go over the past like this.” Inuyasha stated in a pained voice.

“I want to try and be the brother I should have been. I want to try and get to know you truly.” Sesshomaru admitted in his unemotional voice.

“Remember when I begged you to take me in? I was like ten or so? I was sick and I was starving and you stared at me as if I did not exist. Well guess what? I ended up not needing you then and I sure as hell don't need ya now!” the hanyou said stomping away.

“Inuyasha! You are the second son of our father and you cannot continue to walk away from that nor can I continue to walk away from you.” Sesshomaru stated.

“Ya know what Sesshy? I don't want a damn thing from you. I love my mate more than my sorry life and she gave me three pups. Akemi has given me four grandpups. I am pretty damn happy without your sorry ass!” Inuyasha yelled.

“I know and I understand, Maybe this is the best thing I can do and stay out of your life.” He acknowledged.

“Yeah. Climb back up on your perch and allow us lowly bastards to scuttle around.” The hanyou said in a hateful voice.

Sesshomaru sighed and nodded. He truly did not think that his brother could ever forgive him for anything. He truly could not blame him.

“What do ya want Sesshomaru? You want me to say, it was okay you left me to die? It was okay you tried to kill me? Fine. It was okay to do all that big brother and when you get the chance why not try again.” He said.

“It is quite obvious that your mate's ways do not extend to you. Live long little brother.” He said bowing.

“What do you want Sesshomaru?” Inuyasha hissed.

“I want to try and be your brother as I should have done. I want you to forgive me in my stupidity and I want you to know where you come from.” The Western Lord said.

Inuyasha stared at the pure blooded inu and his feelings were in a tumult. Sesshomaru's eyes stared at him and they looked so much like his own.

“Whatcha have to say?” he said softly.

“Asuna is the reincarnation of our aunt. Touga was her brother and she has met him. She can tell you stories and tell you about him. Mine are jaded and hers are not.” He stated simply.

“Damn.” He muttered.

“Hai. Come home when you wish. There are places in the palace you have never been.” Sesshomaru bowed.

“Hey Sesshomaru!” Inuyasha yelled as he brother had started to walk away.

“Hai?” he asked raising a brow.

“I'll try. We have a lot of shit to work out.” Inuyasha muttered.

“Hai we do.” He nodded.

“I need to get this to Kagome so she can cook me some dinner.” He said.

He nodded and watched his brother leave. He prayed to the Kamis that they could forge some sort of relationship other than the one of anger. He changed into his sphere and left the area.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I lay in the bed and the sun shone through the window. I was lethargic and very much still tired. The uppyr ruler stirred in his sleep and flopped onto his stomach. He was a heavy sleeper and I smiled at his form. He was paler than he had been in his early years but he had the same muscular lines that I remembered from the wraith's memories. My mother was more than right and the rutting with a powerful uppyr was more than addictive; it was more than a drug. I drew my leg up alongside him and he opened his brown eyes. He smiled softly and I did as well.

“I figured you would have slept longer.” He murmured.

“I normally am up with the sun. I will normally work out in the dojo for a couple of hours and then state business.” I said stretching.

“You are a goddess.” He replied then lowered his lips to my bare nipple.

I sucked in my breath and closed my eyes. He lightly grabbed my wrists and pinned them above my head. I watched him stretch his body along mine.

“You need to leave?” he asked me.

“Not yet. I still have to know what you know about wraiths.” I murmured.

“That can be accomplished. Will you not take me up on my offer to help you fight?” he asked nipping at my lips.

“Hai. I would be honored to have your help.” I replied.

He released my wrists and lightly ran his tongue along the seam of my lips and brought a hand to cup a breast.

“Kamis you are nothing like that beast.” I moaned.

“I am not. I again am so sorry that you went through that.” He said sighing.

“The marks on your body are gone.” I stated squeezing his backside.

“I had not noticed. God you are killing me.” He moaned.

“Well your body survived what no other had. How did you escape?” I asked running a finger along his quickly stiffening flesh.

“I ported away as the wraith disengaged. I had to sleep for awhile. Let me taste you.” He growled softly.

“Alright, how long did you sleep?” I asked as I turned my head.

“Several years.” He mumbled as he lowered his lips and gently bit into my jugular.

My eyes widened and I began moaning. He was lightly feeding from me but I could not care less at the moment. My time with him had been nothing but amazing and gentle. I arched my neck and he growled again and released my throat.

“How do you sleep?” I gasped as his finger tips began brushing my nether region.

“Similar to how you make yourself project. You have to put yourself into a deep trance. I swear you are going to make me release now. You have learned how to apply your telekinesis have you not?” he groaned out.

“Oh I am sure you are much better at this than I.” I muttered.

My eyes widened further as I felt full and stretched; I shamelessly arched my body to try and cause some friction. I began to whimper as he kept the feeling the same.

“The wraith said that uppyr and wraith share a common youki ancestor.” I whined out.

“I believe it but I do not know.” He stated with gritted teeth.

Our game was becoming more than we could endure but I tried to keep it up.

“Asuna.” He moaned quietly.

“So if there is a common ancestor than surely the original creature must still exist somewhere.” I stated crying out.

He kept up the exquisite pressure but he slid into my center. I arched my hips against his and we both groaned. He was managing to keep up his telekinetic yoki as my own faltered. I instead let my own flow lightly through him and he whined out himself. Excruciating and sublime feeling consumed my body as he and I moved against the other. Piercing pleasure stabbed along my limbs and intense sensation erupted from my center and head. I whined and my instinctual tongue reached my ears as I forced my eyes open. I was straining badly and I saw that he was as well. We were building up the tension in ourselves as the wonderful friction caused little spasms. He lowered his head and began licking and suckling a peak and I thrashed under him. I began murmuring in Japanese as well as whining in inu. I was on overload and I knew he kept me from coming apart.

“I cannot take it.” I nearly screamed in Russian.

He looked down at me and he nodded slightly. He used one hand and held my hip up as the angle of his thrusting changed. He applied more pressure with his yoki and I began to lose my voice. He was hitting the tiny spot within my core and I came undone along every nerve. The explosion that erupted in my center and almost my very soul consumed me completely. I heard him muffle his own near scream in a pillow as we shook violently against each other. My head fell back and I succumbed to the blackness. I woke up and he was still buried in me. His chest was still heaving and he opened his brown eyes.

“That is what an uppyr joining feels like.” He muttered in an exhausted tone.

“What was the last several times?” I asked amused.

“Practice.” He joked.

“You are funny.” I laughed lightly.

“I cannot move I am so tired.” He admitted.

“So you intend to stay buried in me?” I asked.

“Da. I think you can handle it.” He joked again.

I actually giggled and he slowly pulled out and settled onto his side. His head rested on his arm and he was watching me. The air changed and I leaned forward and pressed him onto his back. I lowered my lips to his and began possessing him through the kiss. His eyes had widened then he began moaning softly as I delved my tongue. This moment was not just rutting but an indefinable feeling that had us spiraling down and we were gonna fall. He rolled us to where I was under him and I was becoming a mess. He finally ripped his lips from mine and his eyes were red.

“It should be a sin to kiss like that.” He stated in a deep voice.

“Why did you stop?” I whimpered.

“I am in danger. I need to feed and I will not hurt you.” He growled.

I looked up at him and I pulled him down by the back of the neck. I adjusted my hips and I urged him to reenter me. His body shook under the strain and he began growling louder.

“No. What are you doing?” he asked in a snarly tone.

I dragged a claw across one breast and his crimson eyes watched me. My blood beaded up and he snarled and lowered his mouth and sank his fangs in. I began mewling at the rush and he began thrusting hard and leaving me breathless. He tore his mouth from my breast and yelled as he climaxed. I shuddered around him and cried out. He collapsed against me and he murmured in Hebrew. I heard pounding on his door and he looked up.

“Go away!” he yelled.

“Father?” Jarek yelled through the door.

“I said go away! I am fine.” He yelled again.

“Father, open the door!” his son yelled.

Eyal grumbled and I knew he had no wish to move. He rolled off of me with a quilt wrapped around him and I slipped away into another room. I heard the door open and I spied the scene.

“Father, we heard you yell. Are you alright?” Jarek asked.

“I am fine. Jarek, I realize that you are still nervous from my possession but I am quite grown. Now can you leave me in peace?” he said in a low growl.

“Father do you have a woman here?” Jarek asked amused.

“Son go!” he snapped.

“Yes sir.” His son chuckled.

I heard the door slam and he locked it. I watched him collapse on the bed and he looked up at me. I smiled down at him and he reached up and pulled me down.

“I know you need to get up and read but sleep with me for now.” He yawned.

“Alright.” I snuggled up next to him.

I heard him snoring and I smiled. I let him fall into a deeper sleep and I slipped from the bed and put on one of his shirts. It came to my knees and I stole myself to his library. I walked and went to the books. I heard a snorting laughter and turned to see Jarek and I scowled at him.

“So you are the woman.” He smirked.

“Go to hell!” I snapped as I perused the titles.

“Your mother did that quite well for me.” He snapped back.

“What is it with you two?” I demanded.

“Well she ran off and mated a daemon from somewhere else and she was supposed to marry me.” He said standing.

“She was promised to Kyung-Sam at one time.” I said confused.

“Yeah well Stasio did a lot of things behind the wraith's back.” He said bitterly.

“So my grandsire was a bastard regardless if the uppyr were led by the wraith or not.” I said.

“Yes. You did well to rid us of him. I must say you kill our kind without thought.” He muttered.

“You are the son of a whore and you espouse judgments on me?” I said with narrowed eyes.

“My mother was devoted to me. She was not married to my father so there was no expectation of monogamy!” he snapped.

“Whatever.” I said searching the books.

“What about you. You are rather brazen and active.” He said raising a brow.

“I am also raised amongst peoples that concubines and harems are the norm. Do not dare lay your opinions on me.” I said turning glacial eyes to him.

“Oh yes that is the reason. The fact that you are uppyr has nothing to do with it.” He snorted.

“Did you ever bed my mother?” I asked in a nasty tone.

“She was my intended and of course I did. She had a roving eye still and could not commit to a union.” He said bitterly.

“You loved her!” I said stunned.

“No! I did not. How could I love her? She would not allow it.” He snarled.

“I am sorry. She is devoted to my sire.” I said softly.

“Wonders never cease.” He snapped and stood.

He walked out of the library and I saw Eyal in the doorway. He smiled at me and my attire. I blushed and he moved forward and pulled me to him.

“My warmth was gone. You look rather fetching in my shirt though.” He said in a sultry tone.

“My own clothing was torn and bloodied. I suppose you do not have anything else I could wear?” I asked.

“I am sure I can find something in this huge castle. A dress without hoops and a farthingale should do.” He said lightly nipping my lips.

“I am coming undone around you.” I said breathing hard.

“As am I. Let me help you find the information you need.” He stated pulling away.

“Why have you not mated to one female?” I asked.

“I have enjoyed my freedom so to speak. I do not see a reason to force a union when being lovers can be just as gratifying.” He stated as he began pulling books from the shelves.

“I understand what you are saying but my inu side is very hell bent on being tied.” I said as I read the Latin titles.

“I do not understand but then I do not have those instincts. I never have. Jarek wanted to be married to your mother but she fought it. Your grandfather pushed for the union as well.” He said as he pulled a thick book from the shelf.

“Jarek loved my mother?” I asked.

“Da. She is beautiful and fierce at the same time. She cannot be tamed, I do not think even your sire has managed to do it.” He said leveling me a stare.

“I know of one other but they both try to refrain most of the time. She has been pretty loyal to my sire. Inu are rather amorous and possessive creatures. My father is the most powerful inu there is.” I responded.

“Tell me about him.” He commented.

“His name is Sesshomaru and he is the eldest son of my grandsire who was Lord Touga, the Inu no Taisho. Touga was not the kindest to him but then my sire is highly reserved.” I said opening the book he had pulled from the shelf.

“How has he managed to keep Elizaveta's attention all these years?” he asked astonished.

“He is reserved but she knows him as no other. More than a century ago my soul mate was a hanyou; a half demon. He coveted a powerful trinket called the Shikon no Tama. Naraku betrayed my father and many others to get it. He is a unique creature as he is a merging of many youki and a mortal.” I said reading the Latin.

“How?” he asked shocked.

“The mortal was an evil son of whore named Onigumo. There was a kumo youki who led all the other youki and it harbored the soul of a great funnel web known as Hisashi. He was my mate as my former incarnation Sorami. He was sick of waiting it seems and I was to be born to my sire; so you can see where this is going.” I laughed.

“You fell in love with the enemy but he was your mate from another life?” he asked shocked.

“Hai. Our souls were rather bitter at our lives being cut short and we came back around so to speak. I was drawn to Naraku through projection to the past and I made sure he survived the Shikon's completion. My sire still hates him but I also purged the ningen soul from Naraku awhile back.” I said smiling.

“Well that is quite a tale.” He said leaning against the bookcase.

“Hisashi had a little brother named Ishin who thought his brother had betrayed him. I stopped the two from killing each other and now somehow the three of us together.” I said closing my eyes.

“These arachnids are telepathic?” he asked with interest.

“Hai. Their true forms they really cannot speak like we do so they developed telepathy to communicate. They do make high pitched shrieks when hurt but I cannot see as how that is a language. Ishin and Naraku are rather powerful taiyouki.” I said scanning down the pages.

“Taiyouki?” he asked.

“Translates to `great daemon'. You are a taiyouki as well as my mother.” I said stumbling upon a word I did not understand.

“Lamia? What is that word?” I asked.

“Latin for vampire.” He replied.

“Is that what we are?” I asked.

“Yes and no. We are blood drinkers but we obviously can have offspring and face the Sun.” he chuckled.

“Vampires cannot?” I asked raising a brow.

“The mortals have built up myths about uppyr.” He said sitting in a chair.

“So we are these vampires?” I asked.

“Essentially.” He replied.

“How many types of uppyr are there? Kyung-sam was a different type.” I said sitting.

“There are several types. I choose not to deal with some of the fiercer ones. There are pockets of them in Greece, India, and Western Europe.” He explained.

“Really?” I asked shocked.

“Yes. We are the rare type that has all the psi abilities. Others are deaf in their minds but they can control only through the blood they take. We of course can dip into any mind pretty much but with the blood it is complete. There are uppyr who can start fires with their thoughts and even fly so to speak.” He said pouring a glass of wine and handing it to me.

“Are the wraiths afraid of these uppyr as well?” I asked him.

“I am sure they are. The other uppyr are frightened of us as well. They slink in shadows.” He said smirking.

“You are not fond of these creatures?” I asked surprised.

“Let us say I will not tolerate those that bring out our daemon natures to mortals. They have been known to kill and leave evidence of it.” He said disgusted.

“Did you not say you slay evil mortals?” I asked.

“Yes I do. I do not do it often as I can get nourishment from animals and a lover.” He said bluntly.

“That wraith turned you and our kind into monsters.” I said in anger.

“When did you start saying our kind?” he asked amused.

“When I stopped fighting my nature. My mother fears that I will leave everything for you.” I said candidly.

“Why would you do that?” he asked raising a brow.

“I told you before that I feel normal here.” I said blushing and looking away.

“Your nature is dominated by Elizaveta's side but you do not need to ignore your ambitions and self for it.” He said honestly.

“I want you.” I said staring at him.

“You have had me Asuna.” He chuckled.

“No, I mean I want you.” I said moving forward.

I walked forward and straddled his lap, pinning him to the chair. He looked up surprised and my eyes had changed and I felt my markings and they had become rather jagged.

“What is wrong?” he asked me.

“My inu self. Pardon me before I lose my mind to it.” I said trying to get away from him.

“What are you saying to me? What is this that is happening?” he demanded softly.

“You have seen my true form. I have lost my conscious self before to that giant silver inu you have seen. It is clawing at my mind right now for what I do not know.” I said shutting my eyes.

My voice had become deeper and had a growling undertone to it.

I heard snarling in my mind and I shook my head against it. It was screaming coward and demanding that we take this male. I growled forcefully and I felt his hands on my shoulders.

“Concentrate and forcefully pull back yourself. Put up the walls you do as shields.” He commanded.

I snapped my fangs at him and I saw his look of surprise. A strumming growl could be heard from my chest and he was intrigued I could tell.

“I take it back. You are as much a dog daemon as you are uppyr. What is it you need?” he asked.

“Your attitude is wrong uppyr!” we growled.

“About what?” he asked softly.

“You would use us for your pleasure!” we snapped.

“Who is using who? I am not using you at all. This is mutual inu.” He said respectfully.

“Lies!” We snarled.

“No it is not. We are enjoying each other for now.” He said settling comfortably in the chair.

“You want our power.” We snarled again.

“I have enough as it is. What is it you want?” he demanded.

“You! We want you.” We hissed.

“Why have you merged in your mistress's mind?” he asked.

“She will not take what we want. We take what we want.” We purred.

“When you say you want me, what does that mean inu?” he asked raising a brow.

“That wraith wanted us and you want us but only as your occasional bed mate. We want more.” We said grinding against his pelvis.

“That is not what either of us want is it?” he asked calmly.

“Lies. You take and we want more!” we hissed.

“Why?” he asked.

“You give us such incredible joy.” We said softly.

“That is just the coupling.” He said running his hands through our hair.

“Bastard!” we hissed.

“I speak the truth. Your whole self does not want this.” He said.

“Really? You think we do not want this?” we asked then began licking along his jugular.

He groaned softly and we began lightly biting his neck. He moaned louder and we scraped our claws across his chest through his shirt.

“You are devilish. God what are you doing?” he released a huge moan.

We had lightly bit into his vein and flicked my tongue along the wounds. We pulled his shirt over our head and threw it away. His eyes were glazed over in profound lust and we ripped open his shirt. We stood and pulled forcefully on his breeches and pulled them down. We spread his thighs and located his femoral vein and sank our fangs in deeply. He cried out in a passionate moan and we fed from him. We felt his hands in our hair and he was trying to suppress his urges and moans. We released the vein then found his other in his other leg. We again sank our fangs but our hand snaked between his legs and grasped his throbbing erection. With more gentleness then we felt we stroked him and fed at the same time. He was becoming as mindless as he had made us earlier.

“Asuna! Oh God Asuna please.” He cried.

We released his femoral vein and continued to stroke him with firm and quick strokes. We looked at him and then licked the head of his engorged member. He was thrusting the best he could and we flicked our tongue on the underside of the head of his cock. He had thrown his head back and was crying out loudly. We stopped licking him and moved up to straddle him. We ran the head over our clit and moaned loudly ourselves. Eyal panted at the intense physical sensations. We had not even unleashed our full yoki on him. We sank down on his hard and throbbing member and growled out fiercely. His eyes caught ours and we panted as well. His hands went to our hips to help guide us and find a rhythm to please us both. His claws dug into our hips and we began grinding against him harder. Our growling was becoming more intense and he actually gasped as we flooded him with our yoki.

“Release us! God release us please.” He nearly yelled.

“Ours! You are ours. Say it!” We snarled.

“Yes, alright yes!” he cried.

We jerked his head to the side and clamped down on his juncture with tremendous force. He yelled out loudly as his body stiffened and released his seed. He held onto my hips and I growled loudly against his skin. My own body had spiraled and released along with him and my inner inu snarled in its tremendous climax. My inner nature was growling softly and I released his throat. I had his powerful and intoxicating blood on my lips and he looked up weakly.

“Oh Kamis! I am so sorry.” I stated in horror.

“Why? You just gave me the most incredible release of my long life.” He rasped out.

“I am sorry. That was uncalled for what happened.” I said sheepishly.

“That is your inu self?” he asked laying his head back against the chair back.

“Hai.” I said embarrassed.

“No wonder your mother stays attached to your father.” He muttered.

“Why?” I asked laughing.

“I never want to leave your bed.” He said softly.

“Did I hear myself right?” I asked.

“What? You demanded that I say I am yours?” he answered.

“Disregard what I said. That part of me is possessive and demanding.” I said slowly getting up.

“That was incredible.” He said staring at me.

“That was inu sex.” I said pulling the shirt back on.

“Wow.” He stated.

I blushed again and he looked down at his ruined clothes. I wanted him to myself and I truly did not want another female touching him. I was the same way with my mates but it was irrational and I could not force my feelings on them when I could not control my own nature. I needed to calm myself and I stared over my shoulder at Eyal.

“I am useless for the day. I have not been this active in a very long time.” He said stretching.

He righted his breeches and his shirt was ruined. He smiled and looked at me.

“Allow me to sleep then I shall be at your services.” He said bowing.

“You are a tremendous flirt.” I laughed.

“Yes I am. I am barely staying awake Asuna. I shall send Natalia to get you a frock. Any color you prefer?” he asked.

“Red.” I said.

“Such a passionate creature.” He mumbled.

I eyed him and he looked me over. His eyes were tinged red and he was hungry again. I walked forward and pulled his lips into the crook of my neck. He opened his mouth and sank his fangs in. He held onto me closely and I began to sag in his arms. He was not feeding a whole lot but we had worn each other out. I wrapped my arms around him and we sank to our knees. He pulled back and gasped. I looked up at him and smiled.

“Enough! I will not feed anymore from you.” He said in a fierce whisper.

“Yes you will and I want you to. Take us to your room as I need sleep as well.” I stated.

He ported us to his bedroom and he laid me on the bed. I crawled over to the other side and I watched him shed his torn shirt and don another one.

“I will be right back. I am going to send Natalia into town and purchase some frocks.” He said yawning loudly.

I smirked at him and I laid back. He was gone several minutes and he came back in and stripped out of his clothes completely. He settled in and pulled the covers over him as well.

“What is it that your other half wants from me?” he asked softly with his eyes closed.

“For you to never touch another. I cannot abide that and I do not expect you to either. I marked you but it carries no weight here.” I replied.

“Marked me? You are saying this scar will not leave me?” he asked chuckling.

“It can be removed but it takes effort. If you do not care then do not worry on it. Other types of youki would scent me on you and recognize that as a mating mark. Like I said do not worry on it.” I laid my head on his chest.

“What would another dog daemon do?” he asked softly.

“Scent you to find out who marked you.” I whispered.

“Well very interesting.” He said falling into a deep sleep.

I listened to his heart beating and I felt the pull of sleep as well. Naraku and Ishin needed to know that I was alright. I decided to wait till later and when I had some clothes. I was not letting what Lei did get to me and in fact the son of a bitch would be shocked he had not broken me.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

“We have been over this forest ten times already! She is not responding at all!” Ishin snapped.

“I know Brother! Damnit where is she?” Naraku demanded.

“If we knew where she was I would be dragging her ass back to the mansion!” Ishin said in a furious tone.

“I understand your frustration Ishin because I feel it. Calm yourself! Sometimes we can sense each other on a very basic level. Try to locate her through your mark!” Naraku said calmer then he felt.

“I have tried that Naraku. Where is she?” the Tsuchigumo Lord ranted.

“The wraith may have gotten her. Son of a bitch!” Naraku hissed in anger.

“I am not waiting around to find out Brother. She has my daughter within her womb and I will not lose another, do you hear me?” Ishin asked in worry.

“I understand. She is just as much mine as she is yours.” Naraku bristled.

Ishin stared at his former enemy and nodded. They both ported back to the mansion and Ishin summoned Aya. She came in and bowed before both males.

“Make sure that the younglings stay here and watch them with your life. Karu can mesmerize as well so avoid his direct gaze.” Ishin commanded.

“Hai my Lord. You still have been unable to contact the Lady Asuna?” she asked.

“No.” he said in anger.

“Shall I send some of the warriors to try and track any kind of evidence?” Aya asked.

“Hai do that.” Naraku stated.

“Hai my lord. Might I suggest your extract some intelligence from the ningen. Nobu has been experimenting with his herbs and venoms.” She stated.

“Has he? What has he come up with?” Ishin asked with interest.

“I know he can extract the truth from a youki, I have had him administer his draught before.” Aya said.

“Send your brother to me now.” Ishin commanded.

She bowed and went to her brother. He was in his garden pulling herbs when Aya hissed behind him.

“Lord Ishin wants you now.” She said.

“Well how do you do too sister!” Nobu said in a teasing manner.

“The Lady is missing and both of them are distraught.” Aya said in a snippy tone.

“What do you mean missing?” Nobu said standing and dusting off his hakamas.

“Like I said, she is missing and Ishin looks as though he is going to come out of his skin.” She said.

“Okay, I am coming.” Nobu said heading to his best friend.
He walked in and bowed. Ishin and Naraku were talking rather animatedly and they stopped when he appeared.

“Aya says you have a draught that can induce the truth from an individual.” Ishin said flatly.

“The ningen? You think the wraith got to the Lady Asuna?” he asked.

“Hai.” Naraku said.

“I shall prepare it. It will cause some uncomfortable side effects for him though.” He said over his shoulder.

“Like I care?” Ishin snapped.

“Just checking.” Nobu said.

He went back to his apothecary and began mixing herbs and his venoms. He was caught up in his business he did not notice Mizuki appear.

“Haha hurt.” She said.

“How do you know?” He asked looking down.

“I hear her crying.” She said softly.

“Where? What do you mean?” Nobu said kneeling down.

“Haha cry and so does Obbasan.” She said looking down.

“Have you told your chichi?” he asked.

“No. Haha cry bad. Haha scream no.” she said tearing up.

“Come with me.” Nobu said picking her up.

He carried her back to the two lords and he bowed slightly.

“She feels her!” Nobu said excitedly.

“What? How?” Naraku said coming forward.

“Chichi, haha cried. She no cry now but she did. She scream no. He hurt her.” Mizuki said sadly.

“How do you know?” Naraku asked softly.

“I see it in my head.” She said looking down.

“Precious, where was she and how did he hurt her?” he asked her.

“In woods. He hurt her. He lay on her and stuck claws in her.” Mizuki said looking up.

Ishin's eyes had changed to red and Naraku held his daughter close. He could not believe she had seen her mother raped. His own eyes were burning and he held her chin up.

“Did you see where she went?” he asked hopeful.

“No, she quit crying. She no wanted you to find her. She sad and very mad.” She replied.

“Baby girl can you try and pull on her mind?” he asked gently.

“I try. She cry if I do. She no want to be found.” His daughter began sobbing.

“Nobu, can you take her to Aya?” Naraku asked calmly.

Nobu nodded and took the tiny onna to his sister. Naraku turned to Ishin and he was in a rage himself.

“I thought he like males!” Ishin roared.

“His hatred of her runs deep. He blames her for many things. Damnit! I cannot believe she saw that! It was bad enough I had to witness it before.” He snarled.

“Let us speak with the fucking ningen now!” Ishin stood up and stalked to the room the Ming minister was in.

They both went to Juzheng and walked through their barrier. He pressed himself against the wall and was terrified.

“Where does your master stay when he is corporeal?” Ishin demanded.

“Hadasan.” He cried.

“You better pray to your Gods he is there for I will dismember you slowly and send your parts back to him one by one!” Naraku said getting right into the ningen's face.

“I have only ever been there.” Juzheng cried.

“He raped our mate.” Ishin snarled.

“He would not. That would disgust him to no end.” The minister said.

“He did.” Naraku said pressing his claws to the ningen's throat.

“Brother.” Ishin said calmly.

Naraku backed off but hatred poured from him. That creature had hurt her worse then he had him. He felt inept and powerless. Anger consumed his dark soul and he swiped the man's throat wide open with his claws. He shoved a hand into his side and released his miasma. He could not scream as he fell dead at the former hanyou's feet. Ishin grabbed him and shook him.

“Naraku!” he hissed.

“We shall send Lei Jing that back.” He snarled in fury.

“You tell me to calm myself. Good Kamis you slit his throat open!” Ishin hissed.

“Like you did not want to.” Naraku retorted.

“Hai I did but we could have used him for information.” The younger brother said.

“This is the third time she has been raped. This is the third time I have been unable to do a damn thing about it. You and I will rip the mother fucker apart slowly and I will eat him, you hear me?” Naraku shouted in such a rage that Ishin stepped back.

“I understand and I support you. Come he stinks.” Ishin stated pulling Naraku away.

Naraku growled under his breath and allowed himself to be dragged away. His beloved and his heart was hurting and she had not wanted their help because of this very reason he knew. Ishin could feel his simmering hatred and it shocked his baby brother in its intensity. He would lay waste to the perverted ass and avenge his mate as she had tried to do with him.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I awoke again and Eyal was sitting reading a book. Several gowns were laid out and it seemed they were as simple as possible. I stretched and ported to the bath tub. I cleaned myself completely and ported back with a drying cloth around me. He looked up amused and I proceeded to dress in a russet colored gown. The neckline was plunging and the bodice was tight. My breasts were only half covered as I saw it and I was actually embarrassed. The waist of the dress was midway and the sleeves full and gathered at the wrist. The skirt and over skirt were full and came to the floor.

“I feel quite strange.” I said.

“Well you may feel strange but you look stunning.” He said with a gleam in his eyes.

“This is the simplest dress she could find?” I asked turning red.

“I told her to find the simplest dresses that a lady would wear. That is a day dress and not an evening gown.” He smirked.

“Well I suppose my breasts would fall all the way out.” I said in irritation.

“In Paris I am told it is quite the rage.” He chuckled.

I rolled my eyes and I looked over his shoulder at what he was reading. It was a book about central Asia. The steppes as they were called were a heavily contested area. There were old rumors of blood drinking creatures from way back, there were caves it seemed that held depictions of bloody sacrifice. He looked up at me and I covered my mouth.

“Do you think that is the supposed common ancestor?” I asked.

“I do. Those caves they speak of are more ancient than me and even Babylon. I should be curious to see if there is evidence of creatures there but how does this help you defeat Jing?” he asked.

“Probably it does not, I am just curious is all.” I replied.

“You wish to know about your heritage.” He said looking up.

“Hai. I need to leave for now. I have to deal with my troops and such. You can hear me if I call?” I asked.

“Yes, I heard you this last time. I will be able to sense you almost always. I can come to you when you are alone.” He said softly.

“What are you suggesting?” I asked him.

“I am suggesting that I am your lover. I am suggesting that I will not tire of your bed and the feel of your mind mingled with mine or your body joined with mine as well.” He said kissing my knuckles.

“I think I am out of my mind but I would like it very much if you would come.” I said lowering my lips to his.

Our lips had us both heated very quickly and I pulled back. His eyes were red and he nodded for me to go. I bowed to him and went and grabbed my fang. I ported away to Vietnam and braced myself. Anger consumed me as I saw the spot where Lei had done his thing. Fury ate my insides and I knew I was not okay with what had happened; in fact I was disgusted. I allowed myself to feel Naraku and Ishin and I was bombarded with their emotions. I saved them the trouble of coming to me and I went to them. I was pulled into Naraku's arms first then Ishin pulled me to him. I pulled back and I knew they knew.

“Stop it!” I yelled.

“Stop what?” Naraku asked softly.

“How do you know? I did not want you knowing!” I growled.

“Mizuki told us she saw it happen.” Naraku said softly.

“What? No! She saw what he did?” I asked in a pained voice.

“Hai.” Ishin muttered.

“Tell us what happened.” Naraku demanded.

“No! I will not. It is over and it was nothing. He will not hurt me in such a manner. I need to go to the West. Please keep the pups here for now.” I said blankly.

“Koi please let us help you.” Naraku said softly.

“No. I will not give that monster power over me. I need to garner my troops. I cannot simper and whine like a helpless bitch that Sorami was. I will not.” I said forcefully.

“Asuna she was not weak. She was in a bad spot. Please do not shut us out.” Ishin said.

“Back off! It is bad enough my daughter saw me in such a state. Do not make me relive it. I go now!” I said growling.

“You have been to Russia?” Ishin asked softly.

“Hai. My mother's people took care of me. I am sorry I cannot do this right now.” I said backing away.

I ported away and I was ashamed. I sequestered them but did not cut off our bond. I was in the West and I was behind a pillar and slid down it and began sobbing. The damn wraiths had declared themselves my enemy and I was not at fault. I felt a hand on my shoulder and saw my sire. He leaned down and picked me up. I normally would not cry like this but I began sobbing louder. He held me close and he managed to bring me to his chambers. My mother sat up on her futon and cried out when she saw me.

“Baby what is wrong? What are you wearing?” she asked.

“Nothing. I am sorry. I am overly tired. I was in Russia.” I said in a hollow voice.

“Baby why were you there?” she asked.

“I fought Lei Jing.” I said closing my eyes.

“What happened?” my sire asked.

“Nothing. I lost is all.” I snarled.

“Asuna talk to me.” My mother said shaking me.

“I am put out that the bastard bested me is all. I need to go to Baku. I want to attack the Ming and soon.” I said trying to rise.

“You will tell us what happened.” My sire demanded.

“I said nothing! Leave me be.” I said jerking away.

I stalked out of their chambers and towards the south palace complex.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

“Kamis Sesshomaru she is angry. I mean she is boiling with rage.” Augusta said with her eyes wide open.

“You could not ascertain what happened?” he asked.

“She was blocking me out but I think I see Jing attacking her.” She said shutting her eyes.

Augusta did a very underhanded and sneaky thing but she pulled on her blood bond with her daughter. She saw phantom images of her recent doings and her jaw dropped.

“Oh God. Oh God Sesshomaru, he raped her.” Augusta stood up.

“What? I thought that…” he started to say.

“He wanted to hurt her. He wanted to punish her and make Ishin and Naraku furious. He is taken with her power. He is aroused by her tremendous personality. Oh my God he actually wants her!” Augusta said horrified.

“Son of a whore. Come.” He commanded.

Augusta threw on a dressing gown and went to find her daughter. She had not said she saw Asuna give herself freely to Vlad. That worried her terribly. The uppyr king was very much not what she knew and that frightened her. Augusta went to the hot springs and found Asuna cleaning herself methodically.

“That was rather rude of you mother. If I wanted to share my shame then I would have said it.” I hissed.

“Baby girl I am sorry but I want to help you.” She said softly.

“Then leave me the hell alone and let me kill the monster!” I yelled.

“Honey, you are angry.” She said touching my shoulder.

“Mizuki saw it! My daughter has perceptive yoki and she saw me getting raped. I am sorry but I am not okay with that and in fact it infuriates me. My daughter saw her mother scream and cry for him to stop!” I screamed.

“Honey, you need to deal with this. Turning to Vlad is not the answer.” She stated.

“I do not call him that. I call him Eyal and he is not the creature that raped me. It was a possessor wraith and I will not hold that against him. You are quite right when you said the sex was amazing.” I said bitterly.

“Honey, he is powerful and maybe more so then this Lei Jing. He could end up trying to control you!” she snapped.

“I am concerned about the wraith that did me harm mother. Damnit I cannot get clean!” I hissed.

She grabbed the soap from me as well as the cloth and began scrubbing my skin. She was grieving for me and I did not want her pity. I caught flashes of her killing a mortal and I looked up at her.

“Hai. I did. He was married to your Aunt Lark and he hurt her as well.” She said as she poured water over my hair.

She began scrubbing my scalp and tresses. She was calming me considerably and I leaned back and let her work the lather into my hair. She moved the screen in place around the spring and I heard the knock on the shoji door.

“Come.” She called.

My sire and general were on the other side of the privacy screen and Baku cleared his throat.

“You wished to speak to me my Lady?” Baku called.

“I want you to gather the men as we are going to attack Beijing. I want you to coordinate with Geming from Shanghai and I want the city crushed.” I said fiercely.

“Hai my Lady.” He stated.

“I will join you shortly. Tell Prince Youshiro that he will not be coming.” I said in an afterthought.

“He will be disappointed.” Baku said softly.

“He will obey!” I screamed.

“Hai my lady.” He said again.

“Daughter calm yourself.” My sire said.

“I will when I start killing the allies of Jing. Thank you mother.” I said then I ducked under the water to rinse my hair.

I stood up and wrapped a yukata around me and I grabbed my fang. I came out and walked past the two males. I motioned for Baku to follow me and he did.

“Augusta will she be alright?” Sesshomaru asked.

“She is intending to lay waist to the Ming capital.” She answered.

“So she is putting her rage to good use.” He said.

“Hai.” She sighed.

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

I walked into my chambers and I went to my armoire. I was aware in the back of my mind that Baku was there I just did not care.

“My lady? I shall wait in your antechamber.” He said softly.

“I miss him Baku. I miss feeling his hands on me. I miss his inu scent.” I said putting my head against the door of my armoire.

“He loved you and he died with much honor.” Baku stated.

“He is dead regardless. I miss how he would scent me. He reminded me that I am part inu and I gloried in it. He knew everything about me. He knew the smallest thing and my worst shame. I used to explore his body when we were young and he allowed it. I miss my best friend and my inu self.” I said tearing up.

“My lady. I am sorrier then I can say. We will defeat the Ming and finish avenging him. Tell me what else you wish me to do.” He said very softly.

“Make sure we kill every last Ming, wraith, and gibbon we come across.” I said vengefully.

“I promise my lady.” He stated.

I turned and he was on his knee before me. I sank to my knees before him and I took his hand. I kissed his knuckles and he was shocked. He lifted his head and I stared into his turquoise eyes.

“Thank you for your loyalty and your service to this state. You have been most impressive and I was wrong to think a foreigner could do better then a son of this land.” I said softly.

“My lady. I am speechless. I am at your command as always.” He said with a bowed head.

I tipped his chin up and saw my inner nature reflected. He was inu and he was a warrior. He was also a scholar and very well learned. His eyes held confusion and a deep respect. I leaned forward and softly kissed his lips. I could feel his surprise and I surprised myself. I reached a hand up and pulled him forward and deepened the connection. He groaned softly and his own hands came up and held my face. He held repressed passion and that shocked me. I delved my tongue into his warm and inviting mouth and tasted him. He was inu and I remembered Eyal's words about my failed relationships with inu males. I mated my tongue to his and I very slowly withdrew from his very soft and very beautiful lips. I tried to control my need and I nipped at his lips more and he was breathing hard.

“My lady. I will not take advantage of you. That was amazing.” He said softly pulling away.

“You show restraint. That is good. I am terrible at restraint.” I said with a shuddering breath.

“I adore you mam as does every soldier who serves you and this house. I am your humble servant.” He said bowing his head.

“Tell me what you are really thinking General Baku. I am a big onna and I can take it.” I said with a wry smile.

“I am thinking I need to leave before I do what I want and I will hate myself later. I am thinking that I am not worthy of your attention and that you grieve for General Yuudai and I would be a bastard for taking advantage of that.” He said quietly.

“Do you ever think about me in such an impertinent manner?” I asked in a whisper.

“Too often. I am sorry. I am ready to move against our enemies when you are my lady.” He said trying to stand.

“You are too good and too kind.” I said pulling him just a little closer.

“My lady?” he asked.

I pressed his hand to my breast so that he cupped it through the cotton yukata. His chest was heaving slightly and he kept his eyes trained on mine.

“I want you to scent me.” I demanded.

“I can Lady Asuna.” He said shutting his eyes.

“What does your inu sense of smell tell you?” I asked.

“You are aroused by my touch.” He answered.

“I shall not trouble you further.” I said releasing him.

He bowed and quit my presence. I had thought him quite attractive before and his eyes I could get lost in but I had not thought beyond that. Now that Yuudai was gone, young Baku intrigued me. I stripped out of the yukata and put on a burnished bronze haori and hakamas with a pewter colored obi. I put on my black boots and tied hair up and back. I slipped on my armor and my fang into my obi. I left my chambers and I ported to Nara of all places. The ningen samurai about crapped in their hakamas and I bowed to them.

“I was hoping to see Nakamura Masatoshi.” I said.

“Nakamura-sama?” one squeaked.

“I do not kill Japanese ningen on principle. I was hoping to get some help killing some Ming though.” I said thoughtfully.

“I will get Nakamura.” Another samurai said.

I nodded and waited patiently for the royal samurai. I waited almost half an hour but he appeared in plain white haori and hakamas. His hair was down and he looked rather well for a ningen. His brown eyes lit up when he saw me and I bowed to him.

“Lady Asuna!” he exclaimed in surprise.

“Would you like to kill some Ming for your emperor?” I asked leaning against a post.

“The campaign has begun?” he asked.

“Hai.” I nodded.

“Will you be fighting?” he asked.

“Hai.” I nodded again.

“Then count me in. I want to see the legendary onna warrior of the West.” He smirked.

“You flirt Nakamura-sama.” I said smirking back.

“Call me Masatoshi please.” He said giving me a cocky grin.

“Well Masatoshi you really are not afraid of youki.” I said.

“Why would I be afraid of a gorgeous inu? Do you like your belly rubbed?” he asked leaning against another post.

“Amongst other things ningen.” I said coyly.

“Rumors fly about you at court.” He said bluntly.

“Really and what is said in a ningen court?” I asked raising a brow.

“How amazing you are in all things.” He stated brazenly.

“The ships leave Niigata in two days. If you care to join me then be there. I shall be on the mainland already.” I said bowing.

“I shall be there. You look amazingly well Lady Asuna. I am glad I could serve you and please do not hesitate to call on my service again.” He said bowing.

I nodded and I chuckled at the ningen's brazen flirting. He was apparently a ladies man at his court. He would not last two seconds in the Western Court as the bitches would eat him alive. I ported back to the West and I went to the southern complex. I went to Baku's study that used to be Yuudai's. Pain ripped profoundly through my gut and I turned my head. I had not been in here in quite awhile. I had been so busy dealing with Ishin and Naraku. I stepped inside and leaned against the wall. I slowly slid down it and began sobbing. I kept my tears quiet and Baku came in shortly after I did. I looked up at him and his eyes were filled with tremendous sympathy. He sat down beside me and pulled me into his arms. I continued to cry and he just sat there with me.

“We are ready to move when you are my lady.” He stated as I laid my head in his lap.

He ran the back of his hand along my cheek softly and my tears slowed. I was staring at his black haori and white obi.

“Baku?” I asked softly.

“Hai my lady.” He answered.

“Call me Asuna.” I said in a monotone.

“Princess, I feel strange calling you by your given name.” he whispered.

“My full name is Asuna Zoya Yuina Orlovich. You did not know this did you?” I sighed.

“No. I had not realized that you followed your mother's traditions.” He murmured softly.

“Osamu used to call me Yuina. Yuudai always called me chuusin. Could you please call me Asuna?” I begged him.

“You are my commander and my princess. I am just a noble's son.” He mumbled.

“I know who you are and I know I need someone in this army who knows me.” I said in a wretched tone.

“Asuna.” He said softly.

“I wish to leave in two days time. The troops will be moving from Niigata. We may be joined by some samurais of the ningen emperor.” I said closing my eyes.

“Hai. If you wish to sleep then please do so. I will stay.” He stated in such a caring voice.

I nodded and I allowed myself to drift. I felt the hum of Ishin and Naraku and that gave me great comfort but I could not face them at the moment. I had no wish to see the sheer anger on Naraku's face. I even cowered from my little girl. I was very angry at Lei touching my person and liking it. I almost wished it disgusted him. I knew Baku stayed awake and I did not fall into a deep sleep. I woke slowly when I felt lips pressed to my forehead and I saw those incredible turquoise eyes.

“You cried out in your sleep. I am sorry.” He said pulling back.

“Thank you.” I said watching those eyes.

“I can take you to your chambers.” He said.

“I can port myself.” I said sitting up.

“As you wish.” He nodded.

“No it is not what I wish. I do not know what I want except for the Forbidden City in ashes and thousands dead at my feet.” I snapped.

He picked me up and stood. He began walking back to my chambers and I laid my head against his chest. He slid open my door and stepped in. He righted me and went to bow.

“Stay?” I asked.

“Asuna. My lady you are grieving and I do not know what about but I am here to listen if you wish. I think by staying I may entangle myself in things that may end up going badly.” He said candidly.

“You are afraid I will ravish you?” I asked raising a brow.

“No! I am afraid of taking what does not belong anywhere near me. I am not General Yuudai but I do adore you. You elevated me because I did my job.” He said blushing.

“You saved my life. I respect my soldiers but you did not think twice and picking me up amidst tight quarters. No one else did that and there were ten other soldiers closer than you. I elevated you because you earned it for your valor.” I said rather bluntly.

His shy nature was not what I was used to and I shrugged. I untied my armor and threw it next to my armoire I undid my hakamas and slid them down and kicked them off. I undid my obi and put my fang against the wall. I kept my haori on and it came to my upper thighs. I refused to be shy in front of my soldiers as I lived in camp with them before. I went and sat on my futon and picked up my correspondence. Baku stared at me and I looked up.

“Do you take sake?” I asked.

“Hai.” He answered softly.

I stood and went to my side board and poured him a shot and myself a tea cup full. I handed it to him and I sat down again. I opened a letter from Ichigawa and scanned it. I sipped the sake and I noticed from the corner of my eye that Baku sat as well. He nursed his drink and I smirked.

“Ichigawa says that the Ming have again made incursions into Manchuria at the border.” I said downing my own rice wine.

“Then we move at a good time.” He replied.

“Hai. Thank you for staying. In truth I just do not want to be alone. My pups are in seclusion right now except for Ang Chi. I miss just sitting and communing.” I said.

“I understand. My sister is very talkative.” He smiled.

“Has she mated yet?” I asked.

“No. She is picky and is so beautiful that she will have her pick when she does decide.” He laughed lightly.

“You are young yet but has a bitch caught your interest?” I asked.

“Not really. I like to read a lot.” He blushed.

“Baku how is it you can be such a brilliant warrior and so reserved?” I asked him.

“I do not know. I get a little more nervous around the royals.” He admitted.

“Why? We are a messed up family the same as any other.” I laughed.

“So you say. I rarely see any discord.” He replied sipping his sake.

“Oh there is discord. I have beat Youshiro numerous times for impertinence and Osamu and I have the occasional row. Now I manage to enrage Lord Sesshomaru quite often.” I said smiling.

“Well it is never heard. I have said that your father is revered for almost being a Kami.” He smiled back.

My heart started pounding very loudly when I caught his smile. I laid down my letters and crawled forward. He looked surprised and I sat directly in front of him. I lifted his hand and noticed that he had light striping on his wrist. It was a light green and I opened his haori to see if it went anywhere else.

“Is your family taiyouki?” I asked surprised.

“Hai.” He murmured softly.

I opened his haori fully and took off his obi. I saw a hint of stripes near his hips. I grew more intrigued and took his sake cup from him. I noticed his neck had a faint stripe on each side as well. I caught his eyes again and then lowered them to his chest and abdomen. His muscles were so defined that they looked as if cut from rock.

“Baku, you are a work of art.” I murmured.

“Asuna, my lady please.” He said turning bright red.

“Baku have you been with an onna?” I asked softly.

“No.” he admitted.

“You are that shy?” I asked surprised.

“Hai my lady. Please this is not like you and it is definitely not me.” He replied looking away.

“What do you think I am like Baku?” I asked.

“I think you are an amazing warrior and you have a full heart. I have never seen you cry before but I have seen you fall in battle and my own heart stopped.” He stated.

“I am a mess Baku. Kamis how long do you practice your weapon?” I asked.

“Two or three hours a day.” He said.

“I want your hair down.” I said undoing his leather lacing.

His golden hair fell past his shoulders and I was amazed at how thick it was.

“Baku maybe you should go. You are stunning.” I said lifting my eyes to his.

“Hai.” He said in a near whisper.

I wanted to run my tongue along his abdominal muscles and nip at his flesh. I crawled into his lap and he looked almost panicked.

“Where else do you have stripes?” I asked pressing my lips to his elfin ear.

“My upper thighs. Kamis you smell so amazing.” He muttered.

“Really?” I asked him.

“Hai. I am getting dizzy. Please let me up.” He whispered hoarsely.

“Let me taste your skin.” I stated in a husky tone.

“My lady!” he growled softly.

“Why are you saving yourself? Who are you saving yourself for?” I asked softly.

“No one and no reason. I just have no wish to rut with just anyone.” He said fiercely.

I grew bold and shed my haori and threw it from me. I caught his eyes and he was breathing harder. I took his hand and ran his index finger through my nether lips and he felt my arousal. He shut his eyes and seemed to count. I dipped my own fingers in and I lifted them to his nose.

“How does that scent?” I asked him.

“My lady Kamis.” He groaned and took my fingers into his mouth.

I felt his tongue and mouth suck on my appendages and I fought back a moan.

“I want to taste your skin. I promise nothing else.” I whispered into his ear.

“Hai.” He moaned.

I lowered my lips to his neck and began nipping and licking at the tendons. He was growling under my ministrations. I began feverishly taking gentle bites along his shoulder and down his chest. I wrapped my lips around one stiffened male nipple and tugged on it with my teeth and tongued it. I was paying attention to his responses and he was breathing harder and beginning to groan loudly. I was glad he was enjoying it and I released the first one and moved my mouth to his other one. I tugged harder with my teeth and he released a long moan and I smirked against his skin. He enjoyed a little rough play it seemed. I released his nubbin of flesh and began nipping at his chest more and eagerly began leaving open mouth kisses on his taut belly. I dipped my tongue into his belly button and I shifted out of his lap. I nipped the rippling muscles and I saw him staring at me. I lifted my mouth and looked up at him.

“I promised to stop and I shall. You taste so wonderful.” I stated in a deeply husky tone.

“I need more.” He said softly.

“Hai.” I said as I moved to his hakamas.

His breathing was hitched and I untied the silk slowly. I pulled them down and he lifted his hips and I pulled them off. He was beautiful beyond measure and I found it hard to breathe. I was surprised I was still in control. I spread his thighs and settled between them. I handled his sac and he shifted as if in pain.

“Tell me if it pleases you.” I commanded.

“Hai. It pleases me.” He moaned as I rolled him gently.

I nodded and lowered my head and ran my tongue along his beautiful staff. He shuddered and I watched him closely. I wrapped my lips around his length and grasped the base of his arousal. He cried out as I began to suck and work his flesh. Short spasms of pleasure shot through me and I groaned around him.

“Oh Kamis!” he cried.

I continued to take him in my mouth and I was enjoying bringing him pleasure this way. He was so responsive and honest in his reactions. I felt him strain and I created a tighter suction.

-Do as you please. - I pathed to him.

I continued to watch his responses and he began thrusting into my mouth. I watched his hands trying to rest on my hair and I did reach up and place them there. I brought my other hand down and began rolling his stones again. I felt him shudder and he stiffened suddenly. I managed to clean him of his release and I lifted my head. I was dizzy myself with a heady feeling and he was breathing quickly with his eyes closed.

“I keep my word Baku. I have only tasted you.” I murmured in his ear.

“Hai.” He breathed quietly.

“I hope it felt pleasurable.” I stated running my tongue along his ear.

“Hai it did. You did not hurt me with your fangs.” He stated surprised.

“I would not attempt that if my true self was awake totally. I can only do it with great concentration.” I said.

“I am speechless.” He said.

“You are beautiful. You are built to be worshipped.” I stated.

He watched me and I was rather wound up. I leaned back and opened my thighs and ran fingers along my center.

“My lady.” He breathed.

“Just watch Baku.” I said softly.

I was mesmerized watching his beautiful eyes tinged pink. I began to massage my clit and I was so incredibly heated with the scenario that I knew I would have a small climax. I shut my eyes and moaned softly and I heard Baku's own breathing coming faster. My eyes flew open when I felt his hands on my inner thighs. He lowered his nose and scented me closer and I wanted to arch my hips. His instincts were taking him over and he ran his tongue along my slit. I bit my lip as he did it again. He growled softly and slid up my body. He butted his nose against mine lightly and brushed his lips against mine as well. I reached up and held the sides of his head and received his offerings of tongue and sweet lips. He obviously had quite a bit of experience bringing an onna to her knees with his mouth alone. I began moaning into his mouth as his pliant flesh worked against mine in an erotic coupling. He nibbled my lower lip and delved his tongue into my mouth and stroked mine and me into a fevered pitch. He slowly released me from his magnificent lips and began zealously nipping the flesh of my neck and juncture. He pulled back slightly and cupped my breasts in his hands and pressed them together and lowered his lips and so lightly nipped at the tips that I cried out in awful need. Acute desire ripped through me as his lips teased and tasted my nipples. He tasted me as I had done to him and I was losing it quickly.

“Baku, I want you inside of me.” I stated.

He shook his head no and slowly licked and sucked his way down my stomach. He pressed his nose into my center and licked rapidly along my sheath. I arched my hips up trying to feel him deeper in me with his tongue. I grew frustrated and aching need ripped its way through me. I ended up arching my hips and he growled in pleasure it seemed at my offering more to him. He tore his lips from my dripping center and he panted heavily. He crawled back up my body and he lifted my head up slightly.

“Do not make me fall in love with you.” He said in such a tortured voice.

“Please Baku. Please do not leave me as such.” I begged.

“Do not beg me! You are my lady and my princess.” He stated into my ear.

“I am begging you.” I hissed softly.

“This is not what should be happening.” He murmured.

“Baku please. I wish to feel you against me and in me.” I cried softly.

He shut his very magnificent eyes and shifted his hips against mine. I opened myself wider and he guided the head of his member to my entrance. He shook a little and slowly pushed into my folds. He released a deep and soulful moan that caused me to shudder under him. He felt exquisite and he pushed into me deeper and he was seated all the way. I gasped and pushed my hips against his and we both felt a beautiful thrill skate down our spines.

“I do not wish to move.” He whispered hoarsely.

“This is torture Baku.” I cried.

He nodded and withdrew slowly and pushed back in. I mewled in response and he trapped my head between his arms. He kept his pace slow and agonizing and I began to breathe too fast to where I could not catch my breath. He captured my lips in a devastating caress. Tears began to leak from my eyes at the incredibly beautiful feeling he was invoking in me. My whole body was ablaze and he continued to move slowly enough to cause such sweet friction. My hands kneaded the muscles in his back and I was being brought to a soul shattering pinnacle. He was in no rush and his stamina shocked me. His moans and murmuring of my name caused me to fall into amazing rapture. I felt my whole body release the tension and my core clutched and released his member in a delicious rhythm. He grunted but he still did not reach his own bliss. He slowly withdrew from me and pulled my legs so they rested on his shoulders. He slid back into me and I yelled out at his deeper penetration. He moved his hips in a more hurried fashion and his thumb found my button of nerves. He massaged me and he turned his head and began nipping my leg. He threw mw over the edge again and this release dragged him with me. It was so glorious in its intensity that I felt him stiffen and he shouted softly but I screamed out. He quickly covered my mouth with his and kissed me into submission. He released my legs and I wrapped them around his hips. I threw a barrier up around my chambers and he looked down into my eyes. Tears still fell from my eyes and he licked them from my cheeks. He slowly withdrew from me and he crawled over to my futon and I followed. I laid my head against his chest and he wrapped his arms around my upper body. I was not tired and I was electrified at the almost pure and transcendent coupling I had just experienced. Baku sighed softly as he had fallen asleep. I watched him and he looked like an angel from the heavens. Naraku looked like a dark angel and Baku an ethereal one. I heard a light knocking on my door and I groaned inwardly. I gently disengaged from his limbs and I wrapped my dressing gown around me. I slid open the door just a little and I saw my sire.

“Are you alright?” he demanded.

“I am alright my lord. In fact at the moment I am more than alright.” I said softly.

“Come to my study when you are done sleeping.” He commanded.

“As you wish.” I whispered.

“Hn.” He muttered then left.

I took of my dressing gown and slipped back into the futon with Baku. He was a gentle soul truly and I brushed his hair from his face. He settled deeper into the futon and I pulled the silk blanket over us. His beauty struck me and his lovemaking had been tranquil and soul consuming. I could love him with everything in me and I knew I should not. I laid there studying his face and I pulled my leg up his side and he again shifted in his sleep. I stayed there just studying his beautiful face when his eyes opened slowly. His eyes locked with mine and he leaned forward; he pressed me back as his lips sought mine. I began to moan and he slowly withdrew but not before sucking my lower lip and nibbling it. He said nothing and sat up. He slowly crawled over me and sought his clothes.

“Why do you leave?” I asked him.

“My parents expect me for a meal before I leave for the mainland.” He explained.

“Might I join you?” I asked him softly.

“Hai.” He smiled at me.

My heart skipped several beats at his smile and he raised a brow.

“You have the most amazing smile. You disarm me when you do so.” I replied.

“I shall endeavor to keep it to a minimum so as not to disarm you my lady.” He said as if in a serious tone.

I smirked at his veiled teasing and stood up. He averted his eyes and I growled softly. He turned his eyes back to me slowly.

“I want you to look at me. Tell me what you are thinking.” I asked.

“I am thinking that your body was made to be worshipped as well. The scent of our coupling is making me dizzy again.” He said blushing.

“Then I shall not wash it off.” I said slipping over to my armoire.

I pulled out a simple cream colored hanfu edged in gold embroidery. I dragged it across my body and finished dressing slowly. I turned and Baku was dressed as well. I took his hand and I brushed my lips across his knuckles. He bowed and I did as well.

“I will go first.” He said slipping away.

He was not acting totally shy about what happened but I did not want him to regret it. I gloried in it in fact. I proceeded to leave my chambers and went out of the main palace and walked to the outskirts of the palatial complex where the nobles kept their residences. I knew Sir Jouichi from the council. He had always been in support of me. I knew Baku had his elder sister at court and she was Juuna. I knew he had a younger sister as well but I did not know her name. I had seen his mother briefly but I did not interact much with the bitches at court. I went to the small castle and presented myself to the groomsmen. The inu was shocked to see me and I shut his mouth. I patted his face lightly and smirked at him.

“I am here to visit with Sir Jouichi and his family.” I said bowing.

“Hai my lady. Pardon my impertinence my lady.” He bowed.

I laughed lightly and I was led into a dining hall and I got a good look at Baku's family. Sir Jouichi was a raven haired and blue eyed inu. His mate was a golden haired and had the turquoise eyes of her pups. She was stunning beyond words. I got a good look at Juuna and the younger sister. Jouichi bowed low and I motioned for him to stand.

“Please. Baku mentioned he had to sup with his family and I found myself intrigued to meet the rest of your family Sir Jouichi.” I said.

“My lady this is my mate Orimi. This is my eldest daughter Juuna and our youngest Tamae.” He said in introduction.

“Hello.” I bowed.

“I think Lady Asuna that my family is going to crap themselves.” Juuna said with a twinkle in her eye.

I instantly liked her and her father was appalled at her words. I cracked a smile and I sat near her.

“I am sorry chichi. I have manners.” Juuna said then burst out laughing.

I stared at her in amusement and Baku arrived. He bowed and his eyes caught mine. I nodded to him and Jouichi watched his son.

“Lady Orimi you family hails from the North?” I asked.

“Hai my lady. I mated Sir Jouichi almost two centuries ago.” She replied in a melodious voice.

I smirked around the table and Jouichi appeared almost frightened.

“Sir Jouichi, I adore my sire but I am not he. I crave for less formality and I promise that my family does this too and we argue amongst ourselves a lot. My poor father has to listen to us pups bitch and moan constantly.” I said.

He laughed and released his breath. He nodded to me and motioned for sake. I ended up sitting with the family till very late and laughing so hard my sides hurt. Juuna had become my instant friend and all the adults were inebriated. Baku was as well but he was still very calm and quiet. Juuna managed to drag me outside for air and we both carried a chalice of wine.

“I want to see the outside world my lady. I want to see more males then your gorgeous twin all the time.” She said laughing.

“Then you shall. You shall come with me to the mainland. You say you are good with a blade?” I asked her.

“Hai my lady. General Hideaki taught me as well.” She said bowing.

I had heard Baku at the courtyard and I turned to see him. I motioned for his katana and he handed it to me. I threw it to Juuna and she caught the hilt. I pulled my fang and I attacked quickly. I heard Jouichi and Orimi come to the courtyard as well. Juuna was more than passable with a blade and she fought with much strategy and lightness of foot. I had to back flip several times to avoid her blows as she moved forward quickly. I resorted to rolling and dropping her to her rear. I pointed my fang to her throat and we both broke out into grins. The family clapped and I gave her my hand and helped her up.

“Why do you not serve me?” I demanded.

“I am a bitch.” She laughed.

“No you are too good to sit in a palace and gossip. Sir Jouichi and General Baku see to Lady Juuna's armor.” I said bowing.

“Really?” she cried.

“Hai.” I stated.

“My lady she is no warrior.” Jouichi said in shock.

“Let her spar my sire and allow him to decide. I assure she is too good with a blade.” I said.

“My lady?” Jouichi asked.

“Now. My sire does his evening workout in the dojo.” I stated.

“Meet us in the palace. Lady Juuna brace yourself.” I said grabbing her hand.

I ported us directly outside of the dojo and she held onto the wall to calm her nerves. She looked up and grinned like a fool. I nodded and we entered the dojo. My sire had Yoshiko mimicking him and she looked in hog heaven. He turned his amber eyes to me and noticed Juuna.

“What brings you here this late?” he asked.

“I wish you to spar Lady Juuna and prove to Sir Jouichi that she is worthy of a place at my side in the army.” I said with a bow.

“Grab a blade Lady Juuna.” My sire commanded.

“Hai my lord.” She bowed low.

My father made a small noise and I took Yoshiko to my side. She wanted me to hold her and I picked her up. Juuna grabbed a long elegant blade from the wall and whirled on my sire so fast he had to back step. He was surprised. She ducked and parried his strikes and my father was more than pleased I could see. He surged forward and pressed against her blade with Tokijin and she strained under his strength. She purposely fell and rolled. I was pleased beyond measure as she back flipped. She wore hakamas and a tight fitting haori. She landed low and brought the blade up to block a downward blow. She was tiring quickly and my sire barely had broken a sweat. Jouichi and Baku appeared and watched as Juuna fought with stealth and grace. My father finally felled her flat on her back and had the point of Tokijin at her throat. She stared up at my sire and I was shocked to see pure unadulterated lust in her features for just a second. He pulled his blade away and helped her up. My sire released her hand quickly and I was observing quietly.

“Your daughter is better than many males with a katana Sir Jouichi. She will serve Lady Asuna if she so desires.” My father declared.

“I desire.” She said grinning.

“Good.” I said smirking.

“As my lord wishes.” Jouichi bowed.

“Hn.” My father muttered.

Baku watched me discretely and Jouichi bowed and quit the dojo. He would not argue with the lord of the lands and Juuna actually squealed in delight. She took my hand and kissed it.

“I will take you to Shanghai tomorrow and we shall work together.” I said.

“I shall be ready.” She bowed.

My father came to me and took Yoshiko from my arms and nodded. He looked back at Juuna for but a moment and his gaze betrayed nothing. He nodded and left the dojo. Juuna bowed and left as well with a grin on her face.

“Are you alright with my decision?” I asked Baku.

“Juuna is a great fighter. I will not lie and I will worry on her but she is capable of taking care of herself. It has been a long day Asuna and I am sorry to say that I am still inebriated. My family partakes freely with meals.” He stated blushing.

“Mine does as well. I enjoyed myself in your home. Thank you for allowing me to share in your family.” I said bowing.

He nodded and stared to turn to leave but instead pressed me against the wall of the dojo. All manner of lust poured from my very soul as he stared deeply into my eyes. He scented my neck and ghosted his lips along my jaw. Desire ripped through my gut as he just scented me closer.

“I am being impertinent. I apologize.” He whispered.

“I do not mind.” I said in a husky voice.

“I need to sleep.” He stated releasing me.

“Hai.” I said in a shaky tone.

He bowed and slowly walked past me and out of the dojo. I had to slow my breathing considerably and I fled to my chambers. I fell to my futon and waited for oblivion and it soon found me.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I ended up taking Juuna with me to Korea first because Ishin and Naraku bitched until I did so. I was sparring with her in Ishin's dojo and the two raven haired males watched with impressed features. She was laughing hard when I pinned her and I ended up falling to my backside and laughing as well. I looked up and watched Nobu pass trough with his nose in a medical scroll. Juuna crawled over to me and openly stared at the healer.

“Who is that?” she whispered.

“That is Nobu and he is so enthralled with his herbs and medicines he would not notice if an onna fell into his lap. He is the brother to Aya who is Ishin's commander.” I whispered back.

Ishin saw us whisper and laugh and he shook his head. I winked at him and Naraku and they both straightened.

“Come meet the notorious Naraku.” I said pulling her up.

She followed me and we bowed to both males.

“Lord Ishin and Lord Naraku; this is Juuna. She is Sir Jouichi's daughter and sister to my General Baku.” I said.

“Welcome.” Ishin nodded.

Naraku just stared at her and I kicked him with my foot. He growled softly and Juuna grinned at him.

“I understand my Lord Naraku. We inu do rather stink at times. I shall endeavor to wash behind my ears more.” She said.

I smirked and my mate's mouth dropped a little. She bowed again and slipped away. He stared after her and I could tell that he was still very much upset.

“Speak.” I said softly.

“You are shutting yourself off from your emotions which you know is volatile in you.” He snapped.

“What did you do? Hell for that matter what does Ishin do? We simmer and we build our hatred to epic proportions.” I bristled.

“Inu he is just concerned.” Ishin said flatly.

“Shove it. I do not want pity and I do not want to wallow. I want blood and I shall have it. I need the hot spring.” I said bowing.

“Asuna! I love you and this is hurting me that you shut me out.” Naraku hissed.

“I love you too but I do not want to think about it as you do not wish to think on the torture he handed you. Give me enough respect that I can manage. Both of you!” I hissed.

I walked out and I felt both of their ire through our bond. I ignored it and went to the hot springs to clean up after my sparring session.

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

“Nobu is she all right?” Ishin asked his friend.

“Physically she is fine. She is suppressing her rage right now. I would leave it alone my friends.” Nobu stated to both lords.

“I hate this! I hate she does this.” Naraku fumed.

“You do the same.” Ishin pointed out.

“Fine I do okay?” he snapped.

Nobu looked up and saw the golden haired goddess staring at him. Her eyes caught his attention and he stood up from his lords and moved closer to the inu bitch.

“Have I grown an extra head?” Nobu asked lightly.

“Depends upon which head you speak of healer.” She said raising a golden brow.

“You are a little spit fire! Well I shall stay out of your way.” He joked.

“Why would you do that?” she asked him.

“You seem quite busy training with the Lady Asuna.” He said smiling.

Juuna held her breath for a second. She and Asuna were a lot alike and had become rather close rather quickly. She had said the tsuchigumo humanoid forms were beautiful beyond compare. Juuna gave him an alluring smile and leaned forward.

“Shall I tell you something?” she whispered.

“What is that?” he said smirking.

“I like to read very much. Do you have any scrolls that give in great detail the anatomy of your kind?” she asked sweetly.

“I am sure I do but why would you need such?” he asked raising an ebony brow.

“To find the tsuchigumo's other head.” She smirked then stood and glided away.

Nobu sputtered and realized she had been brazenly flirting with him. Ishin neared and was chuckling.

“Did she say what I thought she said?” Nobu asked his friend.

“Hai. Kamis you are a dead man so to speak.” Ishin laughed quite loudly.

“My lord she was just flirting.” Nobu stated growling.

“Yeah right. You are a challenge to most onna Nobu.” He said walking away.

Nobu shook his head and went on about his business. He found her in his garden and she was sitting upon the bench.

“My lady tells me much of you. She said you are quite the healer and are much nicer than Yasu.” She stated softly.

“I try and be cordial. What else has your lady said?” he asked.

“She has said your touch is comforting.” She looked up at him.

“You are flirting beautifully Lady Juuna. Is there something I might assist you with other than that?” he asked amused.

“I like challenges.” She smiled up at him.

Nobu kept himself quite calm but her smile was amazing. He smirked down at the beautiful young onna who openly admired him. He was flattered but knew to keep himself in check.

“I am boring and worse I am terribly interested in all things medical.” He stated.

“Fine. Examine me.” She said standing.

His eyes widened as she shed her haori. She wore a very thin kosode and pulled the sleeve down on her left side. His eyes widened when he saw a mottled scar on her beautiful skin.

“It is ugly and Lady Asuna says you can maybe fix it.” She stated in a soft tone.

“What did this?” he asked horrified.

“I tangled with a serpent some four decades ago. I had to break its body to release its jaws. I was hunting in my inu form.” She explained.

“I can remove it.” He said motioning for her to follow him.

She pulled her kosode closed and followed him into his apothecary. Her golden hair rippled in loose waves down her back and he sat her down on a cushion.

“It will hurt but it will go away. I shall try and keep the pain to a minimum.” He said pulling the silk away from the old scar.

The beast had torn into her shoulder and even to her breast. He kept his gaze very clinical as he assessed how far the damage had been done.

“You must have almost bled to death.” He said softly.

“Hai. I was eighty one. Young enough to be arrogant but old enough to know better.” She chuckled.

He ran his finger tips over the scarred tissue in her breast. She kept her features neutral and he did the same.

“Bite down on this. The widow venom will sting badly but it will numb it once it takes hold.” He stated.

“I will be alright. Just do as you need. I should like to be able to rut and not be stared at in pity.” She laughed lightly.

He nodded and coated his claws in the widow venom. He sighed and sunk them in and true to her word she never even flinched. He could see her magnificent eyes clouded in pain but she did not even whimper.

“I am sorry.” He murmured.

She nodded and he began working with his various venoms and toxins to remove the scarred and dead tissue. It took him awhile due to the extent of the damage. When he finished he wrapped the old wound with clean bindings. She looked up at him and smiled in gratitude.

“Thank you very much healer Nobu. You did something that the famous Yasu could not do.” She stated.

“I am truly glad I could assist you. I am here if you need me again.” He bowed his head.

“Truly?” she asked with a light in her eyes.

“Hai.” He said.

“Shall my breast look normal again? Was it very ugly?” she asked him.

“Hai it will and no it was not. I think you will find you will look like you remember.” He said evenly.

“Thank you again.” She said rising.

He bowed and she did as well. He straightened and was pleased with his efforts. He intended to write about it his journals. She stepped forward and pressed her lips to his in a chaste kiss. He was surprised and she pulled back.

“I thank you very much.” She bowed again.

She glided past him and Nobu let his breath out. She was as beautiful as Ishin's mate and this onna was a very tempting one. He sighed and went to his own chambers.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I was outside Jinzhou and moved amongst the troops. Baku was speaking with several officers and Juuna walked with me. She wore armor and had a katana at her hip. Excitement flowed in my veins at the prospect of facing my enemies. I saw Masatoshi approach and he bowed. He had brought quite a few samurai with him and they sequestered themselves away from the youki warriors. I bowed to Masatoshi as well.

“It looks to be a fine day to crush to Ming.” He smiled.

“Hai it would seem so Nakamura-sama. I shall leave your men to you.” I stated.

“Are all inu onna as stunning?” he asked eyeing Juuna.

“Are all ningen males as bold?” Juuna queried him.

“No lady inu. I bid you good day.” He bowed with a smirk.

“He assisted me outside of Sendai in my fever. He was very kind but since I have found out he is an insatiable flirt.” I smiled to Juuna.

“He is rather handsome for a ningen.” She replied.

“Hai. He is very handsome. Come Lady Juuna.” I stated.

“Hai my lady. May I ask you a very personal question?” she asked.

“Hai.” I replied.

“Have you and Baku rutted?” she asked.

“Once. He comforted me in a weak moment.” I said sheepishly.

“I am glad. He is painfully shy and many of the bitches of court threw themselves at him. I know he has stolen kisses here and there but he is such a good soul.” She said softly.

“I need to keep my distance from him Juuna. I would lose my heart and my head.” I admitted.

“He inspires intense loyalty. Baku was the most studious of us all and he worked so very hard at everything. He truly is my father's pride.” She stated.

“I will not hurt him and I shall stay away from him.” I said ashamed of myself.

“Why?” she asked me surprised.

“Because Kamis forbid if he were to pass in battle I do not think I could handle it.” I stated softly.

“My lady if you live with what may be then you may never have what is.” She said bluntly.

Her words hit me profoundly and I stared at her. She smiled and then walked on. She was a decade my senior and very worldly for having never left Honshu. I followed after her and thought on her words. I was glad to have another onna that I was so comfortable with. I caught up with her and touched her arm.

“I saw you give my sire a rather lustful look when you sparred with him.” I asked her.

“He is just a very unattainable fantasy my lady. Your mother would skewer anyone who dared lay a hair on him. He is simply the most divine looking male inu the Kamis graced the lands with. I am sorry you saw that.” She said bowing her head.

“He is regal looking but then he is my sire.” I laughed.

“Hai. I remember seeing him before you were born and being in such awe of him. Your brother is very handsome to be sure but nothing in personality to your father.” She said smiling.

“You are a conquest of Osamu's?” I asked grinning.

“Other way around my lady. He was my conquest and I gloried in it. No one at court took him seriously, hell he did not even take himself seriously. Now he has two pups and we are all shocked.” She laughed.

“That is my brother.” I nodded.

“It seems as if young Youshiro has a bit of Osamu in him.” She remarked.

“Youshiro is an arrogant little bastard who thinks he ought to have it all. He is too much like me.” I grinned.

“Ah well but you are the eldest.” She giggled.

“I wish I had known you better sooner.” I said shaking my head.

“You have been quite busy the past several years my lady. We courtly bitches never counted you amongst our ranks. Your mother avoids us like the plague but I do not blame her.” She laughed.

“Here is my tent. I intend to strike later in the day.” I said bowing.

“I am at your service.” She bowed.

I went inside my tent and flopped down in the low chair. My mind was whirling so many thoughts that I did not notice Baku enter. He cleared his throat and I looked up. I gave him a wan smile and he bowed. We had not spoken of what had occurred and I would not push him.

“Our scouts are back and they are going to try and outflank us to the north. I have installed warriors on all sides of the pass to assure that they will not make it through.” He said.

“Very good. How many youki and how many ningen do you think they have?” I asked.

“My lady the ningen number in the thousands but we have only heard of a couple hundred youki amongst the Ming, mostly gibbons.” He remarked.

“I see. Thank you.” I said rubbing my temples.

“Are you alright my lady?” he asked.

“Asuna. I am Asuna to you in private.” I sighed.

“Asuna are you alright?” he asked me.

“Hai. I am fine Baku. I do what I do best. Take care of your person out there.” I commanded.

“Always.” He bowed.

I nodded to him and he went to the tent opening. He turned and locked eyes with me.

“What happened was incredible but I think that maybe I should avoid being overly familiar with you Lady Asuna. I do not regret it but I have no wish to muddy the waters with deep feelings.” He stated.

“I understand. Thank you for allowing it to happen as I was hurting but not from what you think. It was beautiful.” I stated then turned my head.

“What was it then?” he asked softly.

“A moment of profound weakness. I again thank you for comforting me.” I said very calmly.

“I do not understand but it is not my place.” He said bowing again.

He slipped from the tent and regret settled in my chest. I suppressed tears and sighed very heavily. I did not have time to feel pain from my desire to have Baku. I steeled myself and went out amongst my men.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Blood was everywhere as we clashed against the rather large army of Ming. My warriors were surging and pushing the bastards back. I slashed through the many mortals and dispatched gibbon after gibbon. Juuna did more than well and I would catch a sight of her here and there. I discovered that Baku and his sister could control their own toxins and produce a weapon of sorts. I knew I must be covered in blood but it mattered not. I saw Geming bring up the flanks and surprise the Chinese as they were trapped in the valley. They had thought to outflank us and trap us in the valley but we had one upped them. Geming fought with such fluid grace and flair. He was arrogant even on the battlefield. I did not allow myself to look for Baku and I willed myself not to care. I narrowed my eyes and I caught sight of Lei. He did not see me as yet and I was stabbed in the leg when I did not pay attention. I beheaded the ningen and I ported right behind the wraith and stabbed him with my fang. He shrieked and threw me so hard I hit a tree with some force. He came at me and morphed his hand to his spear and stabbed me close to my heart and I grunted. I pressed my hand to his chest and released my Dakkasou in vast amounts.

“Bitch!” he screamed at me.

“Hai!” I screamed at him.

He had knocked the Kumosaiga from my hand and I willed it quickly back. I produced the voiding shoki and he stepped back in self preservation.

“Interesting technique whore! You are developing wraith yoki?” he asked in taunting.

“Hell no!” I snarled.

“You did not like my fucking you? I actually enjoyed it.” He sneered.

“Shut up!” I growled.

“What you do not like hearing that I liked your body? I cannot wait to try it again.” He laughed.

Fury ripped through me and I quickly released my Dakkasou blades and began attacking Lei in earnest. I was bleeding heavily but adrenaline was coursing through me. He had to block my fang over and over and I managed to slice into his side deeply. He surged forward and grabbed my hip and released his shoki. I yelped in pain and he pulled me to his body tightly.

“Shall I tell you how I want you? I shall have you tied to my bed as I rip you open and drink your blood. I will split you open from fucking you senseless!” he laughed in my ear.

I used all my strength I could muster and sank my own claws deep into his thigh and flooded him with my toxin. He shrieked the unholy sound that the wraiths made and staggered back. I saw Baku out of the corner of my eye and Lei sneered at me.

“Remember how I felt inu and remember how personal this is. Think on that chest wound and how you murdered my sister!” he snarled.

“Your sister was easy to kill. I watched the light leave her unholy eyes.” I laughed.

“I am going to kill you and I am going to make your spider boys watch as I tear you apart. I am going to make you beg for death after I rape you again and again.” He said in an evil tone.

Baku stabbed Jing in the torso but he was not quick enough. Lei ported away via his foggy mist. I staggered back and slid down the tree.

“Oh Kamis.” Baku stated in horror.

“What?” I asked softly.

He grabbed me up and I felt myself being ported and I was in Yasu's tent. The old healer came to me and shook me to keep me awake.

“Uppyr. I need the uppyr.” I stated trying not to faint.

“My lady you are bleeding out. I need you to stay awake.” He said in a stern voice.

“Will try. Baku decimate them.” I commanded.

“Hai my lady.” He said.

I watched my general leave and my head lolled to the side. I looked up at Yasu and I laid my hand on his.

“I know. You do not need to tell me that my pup is gone. Make sure we win old man make sure we win for Yuudai and the West.” I said closing my eyes.

“Asuna wake up damn you!” I heard Yasu call.

I could feel my life slipping and I remembered what Eyal had said. He had slept and I willed myself to sleep very deeply.

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Yasu watched as his lady's hand fell and he could swear she was dead. He used his inu ears and heard a very slow but slightly steady heart beat. He began working and packing the chest wound but he needed a damn blood sucker to get the shoki out. She was bloodied so bad that he knew she had lost her pup. He worked with what he could and she was hanging onto to life barely. He went out to a runner and demanded that General Baku come as soon as possible. He paced and the young general appeared nearly an hour later.

“You can port boy?” he asked.

“Hai Yasu,” he answered.

“Get to the palace and get the Western Lady. She lives barely.” He said in a worried tone.

“The battle is won. The toll has been heavy though.” Baku stated scowling.

“Just get going. I told her to rid her body of the pup! I told her pregnant bitches should not be on a battle field.” Yasu snarled.

“She was pregnant?” Baku asked shocked.

“Hai. She would have probably died in childbirth. I swear!” he snapped.

“I go now.” Baku said.

He ported and it strained every bit of yoki he had. He appeared in the main hall of the Western Palace and he went to the lord's study. He did not knock and burst in. He went to his knee and Sesshomaru stood.

“My lady has fallen. She needs your mate.” Baku said quickly.

“Augusta!” Sesshomaru yelled.

Augusta ported in and saw Baku covered in blood. She was able to smell a huge quantity of her daughter's blood on the general.

“Oh my God!” she cried.

She grabbed Baku and Sesshomaru and ported to Asuna. Augusta yelled when she saw her daughter. She laid there as if in death and she heard nothing from her mind.

“Sesshomaru I cannot feel her.” She cried in horror.

The Western Lord held up his mate as she began to get hysterical. Yasu came in and looked grim.

“My lady the wraith shoki needs to be removed. She has lost almost all her blood.” He said looking down.

“Let me go Sesshomaru.” Augusta said taking her daughter into her arms.

She ported away to Buda and appeared in the main hall.

“Vlad! Vlad!” she screamed.

Several uppyr ran into the hall and Vlad Tepest appeared. His face dropped into a scowl when he saw what was happening. He moved past his people and sat next to both women.

“I will try and help her Elizaveta but she is in a death sleep.” He said softly.

“What do you mean? I do not understand.” She cried.

“She is trying to save herself. She has put herself as if in death to try and heal.” He explained.

“Remove the wraith shoki.” She begged.

He was actually shaking and he lowered his lips to her hip and sank his fangs in and drank the tainted blood. The wraith had released a huge amount of his poison and Vlad actually feared for her. He drank as much as he dared and pulled back. He took Augusta's wrist and sliced it open with a claw and dripped her blood onto the wound in her chest. He did the same and Augusta watched in awe as the wound closed some. It was much smaller and Vlad sighed.

“I am assuming you wish to take her back to Japan.” He stated.

“Da. She is soul bonded and her mate is going to be crawling the walls.” She said biting her lips.

“Elizaveta there is no guarantee that she will wake up. She has lost almost all of her blood. She may be gone already.” He said grimly.

“NO! You owe her! You will save her!” she snarled.

“I am not God. I shall do what I can but you need to understand she may not wake up!” he said shaking her.

“No! No! No! Do you hear me? NO!” she started crying.

“Jarek assist Elizaveta home. Listen to me, I will come back to her later this evening and bleed her more. You need to start praying to whatever gods you believe in.” he said sadly.

Jarek actually looked saddened and held his former betrothed and touched the inu's arm and ported to the place in Augusta's mind. Augusta laid her daughter out on her futon and fought back despair. She fled the room and Osamu ran into his mother.

“Why can I not feel her?” he asked in a tortured voice.

“She is near death.” Augusta said fighting back panic.

“Watch her.” She commanded.

She ported to Korea and the last place she saw Lord Ishin. Naraku and the tsuchigumo lord were both looking wretched. Naraku came forward and he searched the uppyr's face.

“Tell me she has cut us off.” He stated.

“No. She fell during battle.” She said tearing up.

“What do you mean? What is this horrid pain?” Naraku asked shaken up.

“She is not there. Her body is barely alive but Asuna is not there.” She said starting to sob.

Ishin's face became blank and Naraku's eyes widened in utter horror at the news.

“No I do not believe it.” He said in disbelief.

“Sesshomaru is on the mainland finishing the battle. Go to her.” Augusta said wiping her eyes.

Naraku ported via his miasma cloud and Ishin stood there not moving.

“Lord Ishin, I am so sorry.” Augusta said very softly.

“It hurts terribly. I cannot think.” He said dumbly.

“Go to her.” Augusta commanded.

Ishin nodded and he too ported away. The Western Lady ported to Hunan and she was beginning to shake horribly. She stumbled forward and heard Zihao screaming. Tears streamed down her face and she realized he did not feel his mother anymore. Chen saw her and came to her side and had to hold her up.

“Augusta what is wrong?” he asked.

“Quon where is he?” she asked.

“Trying to calm his son. He started shrieking nearly an hour ago. Guang cannot find a reason.” Chen said searching her face.

“Asuna. She fell in battle.” Augusta said.

“What? Surely not.” Chen said in disbelief.

“Zihao cannot sense his mother that is why he cries.” Augusta said turning away.

Chen pulled Augusta into his shoki mist and they appeared next to Quon. Zihao screamed in agony and Lady Meifen was trying to soothe him as well. Augusta went over and pulled the cub into her arms and began humming in his mind. He whimpered and slowed his shrieking.

“Lady Augusta?” Quon asked.

“They do not think she will make it.” Augusta stated trying to stay calm.

Quon's eyes hardened and he looked anguished. Augusta turned away and kept up the humming to keep Zihao calm.

“Who and how?” Quon whispered in a terrible tone.

“The wraith.” She said.

“I need to see her.” The Byakko prince said and shoved past his family.

He ported to the West and went to her chambers. He saw Naraku and he looked up at him. He saw her and he swore she was gone.

“I cannot think.” Naraku said out loud.

Quon actually fought back angry tears and turned his head away.

“They have a stronghold in Hadasan. My father assisted her in finding them before. I want to lay waste to their home.” Quon growled terribly.

“I shall join you in the effort.” Naraku said in a near monotone.

“You really cannot feel her?” Quon asked.

“No. She is gone.” Naraku stood up.

His hand shook but he tried to steady it. Ishin had come and gone. He could not bear to see her near lifeless body and Naraku was consumed by the awful hatred he had felt more than a century ago. He knew what she meant when her mutt had passed on. The pain was crippling and he could not react at the moment.

“I need to try and center myself. I cannot think.” He repeated his earlier statement.

“Zihao is falling apart and I think you need to check on your daughter and sons.” Quon said in a hate filled voice.

“Hai.” Naraku said.

He produced a miasma cloud and went to find his offspring. He was so numb that he moved as if a machine. Quon sat next to her and actually allowed himself to feel the overwhelming grief. He lifted her hand and it was cold. He was horrified and cried into her bloodied haori. He looked up to see her twin brother who appeared as if lost.

“I feel so alone. I have never felt alone as long as I can remember. She has always been in my mind.” Osamu stated in profound grief.

“I love her.” Quon said.

“She nearly tore apart this land because she loved you too. She nearly died giving you a son.” Osamu said in monotone.

“I have to kill something!” Quon said in a rage.

“Kill the wraith.” Osamu said bitterly.

The Byakko prince stood and bowed to him. He disappeared in his shoki mist and Osamu sank to his knees and began a soul wrenching sob. He held onto his sister's hands and screamed in rage. He had grieved when his mate Airi had died but it had not felt like this. His sobs were heard down the hall and Lord Sesshomaru appeared in the door. Yasu was with him as well.

“Give him something to make him sleep.” The Western Lord said coldly.

“Hai my lord.” Yasu bowed.

“Osamu. Come away.” He commanded.

“No!” he snarled.

“Son! She is not there! Come away now.” His father snapped.

Sesshomaru physically dragged his oldest son away from his daughter's body. Pain was overwhelming him and he refused to allow it to take him at the moment. The Ming had suffered a humiliating defeat but his daughter and heir was practically dead. He pulled Osamu from the room and Yasu forced a draught down his throat. Osamu slowly sagged and his sire carried him to his own chambers. Sesshomaru slowly walked back to her chambers and he shut the shoji door. He sat down next to her and pulled her into his arms. He let loose a low growl that he used to do when he walked the palace halls to get her to sleep as an infant pup. He looked at her closely and his beast was clawing his mind. She looked the most like him and she had the same drives that he did. He held his beloved daughter close and closed his eyes. He continued his soft growl and he fell into a nightmarish sleep.

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Augusta watched from the door as her mate held onto his first born. He loved all of his pups she knew but Asuna had captured his stoic heart when she had wrapped his silver hair in her tiny, chubby little fists as a newborn. He would not shed tears as that was not who he was. His actions were more than telling and it was heart breaking to see. She slipped from the room and went and checked on her grandpups. Ang Chi was the only one who knew the truth and he was devastated. Augusta allowed tears to fall slowly as she checked in on the little ones. Mizuki had to be sedated as she was hysterical. Nori kept pacing back and forth aimlessly and Ken'ichi was trying to calm his brother it seemed. Hiroto, Kazuo, and Hana had been removed to Manchuria. Sheng had fallen apart for a little while and pulled himself together to deal with his offspring. Augusta felt General Baku and she turned slowly.

“The Ming is suing for peace Lady Augusta. I cannot find Sesshomaru-sama and I do not know who I answer to about Lady Asuna's lands.” He said in a soft voice.

“Lord Sesshomaru will answer for her and he is in her chambers now. Please do not disturb him for he would likely lash out.” Augusta said softly.

“I shall retire to the southern complex my lady. I tried to get to her.” Baku said in a pain filled voice.

“She was and is a warrior Baku. She would prefer to die this way.” Augusta said hollowly.

“Hai my lady.” He bowed.

Baku walked back to his study and he felt overwhelmed. He had tried to reach her but she had taken such a terrible wound. Memories of his comments in her tent horrified him now. He settled at his desk and lowered his head to the wood. He adored her as did almost every inu that walked the Western Lands. She had won hearts in almost every city and village. The armies of the West had been victorious but many of the soldiers had seen their commander fall. She had been given control of the army nearly thirty years ago and many of the soldiers pretty much had been trained under her orders and strategies. There had been profound grief when Yuudai fell but there was outright agony with her current state. He tried to put the memory of his being with her out of his head and failed. He sighed and decided he needed to get very drunk and several of the lieutenants would join him. He stood up and went into the barracks. The men were moping and he sighed.

“General?” a young inu asked.

“Hai?” he responded.

“The Lady Asuna, they are saying she is dead.” The soldier inquired.

“She is neither alive nor dead. They are telling me it is a catatonic state.” He said looking away.

“So she is dead.” The inu growled low.

“Technically no she is not dead but Yasu is not expecting her body to survive.” Baku admitted.

There was grumbling and he moved on. He saw Prince Youshiro and his heart went out to the youth. He looked bereft.

“Prince Youshiro.” Baku stated softly.

“Hai General.” Youshiro stated in a monotone.

“Come. I need a stiff drink and some company. I can keep you from your parents for awhile.” Baku said in a low voice.

“Hai. I was so hateful to her always.” Youshiro lamented.

“You were her junior; you were supposed to be hateful to her. She loved you very much and always tried to look out for you.” Baku said as they walked.

“I know. I do not want her dead. I need to say I am sorry.” He said growling

“I need to say it as well. Come I know a tavern in Kyoto. Will you port us there?” Baku asked.

“Hai. You really need to strengthen your own ability General.” Youshiro pointed out.

“It makes me sick to my stomach and I prefer not to.” He said softly.

“I understand.” Youshiro said looking down.

Youshiro ported them both to Kyoto and Baku bid the prince follow him. They went to a tavern that had geishas as well. Baku grabbed a big bottle of sake and two large cups. Guilt was eating away at him and he did not want to feel at the moment. There was chatter amongst the ningen and inu alike about the Western Princess falling in battle. Baku poured himself and the young prince the sake and he proceeded to tip it back and drain it. Youshiro watched and downed his as well.

“Hey aren't you the prince?” a ningen man asked.

“I am Prince Youshiro ningen.” The young inu bristled.

“Is it true? Did your sister fall?” the man asked.

“Hai! My sister lies on her death bed. Leave me alone!” Youshiro growled.

“Lord Youshiro calm yourself.” Baku commanded.

“Damn fucking ningen!” Youshiro snarled.

“Youshiro!” Baku barked.

Youshiro turned away bitterly and poured himself another cup of the sake. He had news for Baku but he had been drunk numerous times. He truly loved his elder sister but he had bristled at her commanding him around as if a parent. His own two taiyouki mother and father were domineering enough. Asuna used to take him hunting and taught him to speak Russian. Angry tears pricked his eyes and he wanted to tear something apart. Baku was drinking very quickly and he was brooding.

“General? This is beyond my sister leading the army. What is wrong?” Youshiro asked quietly.

“Coming to grips with what I think is all.” Baku stated softly.

“What does that mean?” he asked.

“It means I think I made a mistake.” Baku sighed.

“I do not get it.” Youshiro shook his head.

“It is my problem. Come there is still plenty of sake in the bottle.” He answered.

Youshiro poured more and proceeded not to think.