InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Into the Void ( Chapter 62 )

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

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

Into the Void

I was venturing further and further away from the safety of the palace complex. I had pretty much regained all of my strength but Yasu had informed me that my falling the last time may have indeed damaged my heart some. I still tired rather quickly but I pushed myself beyond the limits of my body. I held the Kumosaiga and I was hunting down some youki that were monkey in nature but were not gibbons. It had been four months since I had fallen and my mother had managed to bring all my offspring home. I had no wish to know the extent of her “persuasion” as I still held deep love for my mates but horrendous anger at their abandonment. Baku had said that Ishin had been seen in the West and he was trying to see me. I knew my sire well enough that he was trying to keep me away from other species. The longer Baku and I were lovers the more I wished to make him my official consort but I refused whilst Jing lived. I continued to move slowly and I was suddenly surrounded by the elusive youki. It moved quickly and I grew angry.

“You are in Western Lands and I know you understand me you bastard!” I growled.

“Hai I understand you but I have no wish to be at the end of your katana.” He said from the trees.

“What are you?” I demanded.

“Merely a servant. I was sent to draw you out especially.” He answered honestly.

“What are you?” I demanded.

“A kumo yamazaru.” He replied.

“Who sent you?” I demanded.

“Lord Ishin.” He said.

The creature dropped down and his tail was wrapped around a branch. He was a smaller youki and only stood half my height. His eyes were as black as any funnel webs would be. He was not unpleasant at all but he was not Asian in origin.

“No, I am not but my people serve Lord Ishin. He saved us from the damn mortals that tried to kill us.” He replied to my thoughts.

“You are telepathic.” I stated.

“Yes. Look I really do not want to end up skewered as he warned me you had a nasty temper.” The kumo yamazaru said.

“What is your name?” I demanded.

“Jimon. Yeah I know it is Japanese but I have been here since I was rather young. Ishin said you would probably try and throttle me but I am begging you not to. He said inu are full of themselves.” Jimon stated as if I had known him forever.

“It seems Ishin is doing one thing he does best. He refuses to shut up while he is ahead. Where is the tsuchigumo lord?” I demanded.

“Sendai.” He replied.

“Well. I would teleport there but I cannot tax my yoki that much. You will have to tell Ishin I am well. You may go so my warriors will not skewer you as you say.” I said smirking.

“Well see there is the rub.” He said grabbing me in surprising strong arms.

“Let go of me!” I yelled.

“Shush!” he demanded.

He actually ported us away and he released me and jumped up into the eaves of the Sendai castle. I looked up and realized that though this creature was smaller, he was in no way less developed as a youki. He was a powerful little creature and I sighed. My sire was going to become unhinged. I sensed Ishin's aura but he found me first. My heart ached when he saw me but I managed to keep myself from falling into his arms.

“Ishin.” I said softly.

“Kamis I have missed you.” He whispered in a tortured voice.

“My sire stated you quit coming to see me whilst I slept.” I said unemotionally.

“I went after Jing. When I came back your father refused to let me see you. I have not wanted to bombard you so I held back the bond. I did not abandon you.” He said coming closer.

I was in his arms so fast that it dizzied me. My lips sought his and he crushed me in his arms. I reached up and undid his hair. His ebony silk fell down his back and I crushed it in my hands. I pulled back and I searched his black eyes.

“I have to go back. My father will go ballistic.” I said softly.

“Asuna please stay awhile.” He said tilting my chin up.

“Ishin, I am still not completely well. Jing managed to damage my heart some. I have had a very hard recovery and I have no wish to anger my father; who is the Lord of the West and quite powerful.” I pointed out.

“He told me our union was dissolved. What do you say?” he demanded.

“I have no wish to have our union dissolved but I am telling you I do not have the strength to fight against anyone right now. I am admitting that I am still quite weak. Give this time, give us time.” I said softly.

“I do as you ask. I am yours always. I did not abandon you. I was having a hard time dealing with your fall and the other.” He said in an aching tone.

“I failed you.” I said looking down.

“No! I am grieving for our loss. You did not fail me. I failed you. I give you the time you need.” He said kissing my mouth softly.

“Where is Naraku?” I asked him.

“Not dealing well with your injury. He is hunting Jing and any wraith he can find rather aggressively. I see him every so often but he is obsessed with making the wraith pay.” Ishin said holding me close to him.

“That is Naraku. If you see him before I do then tell him I understand. Tell him that I am not strong at the moment.” I said holding him tightly.

“I want you home. I want you in my bed.” He said into my hair.

“As soon as I can. I love you Ishin.” I murmured.

“I love you too. Jimon?” Ishin asked.

I saw the monkey being jump down from the eaves and he waited.

“I have no wish to alert your sire to my presence so Jimon will take you back. I shall see you soon my heart.” He murmured.

“Hai.” I said bowing.

“Come inu. You disturbed my nap.” Jimon stated teasing.

I actually smiled at the simian and he took my arm. Ishin looked at me and he released our bond a little. I felt his happiness at seeing me and I smiled at him. For now things were right between us and I felt much better. Jimon ported us back to the spot we had been in and he quickly retreated. I scented other inu around and knew my warriors still were hunting him.

“Thank you.” I said up to the tree.

“Sure. Just make sure your dogs do not kill me okay? I rather like living.” He teased again.

He disappeared and he was an amazing creature. I walked into the palace and found the hot spring. I stripped and sank into the depths of the hot water. It felt wonderful and I was relaxed. I needed to go to Shanghai and I knew my sire would consent if Baku went. I scrubbed my skin and hair. I dressed quickly and went to his study. I bowed low and he looked at me patiently.

“I feel the need to at least return to the administrative part of my lands my lord. I shall take Baku with me and he will keep me safe.” I said.

“Alright. I should like you home in less then a week.” He replied.

“As you wish. Thank you for your care of my person.” I stated.

“Silly. You are my pup.” He said absently.
I smiled and retreated. I was going to have a little freedom that I had not had in months.

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I was in Shanghai less then a day when things became a whirlwind. I had been sitting in my study reading all the accounts and mentally groaning at all the work I needed to do. Geming thankfully was in Hong Kong and Baku was dealing with my troops here. I felt a powerful aura and grabbed my fang. I whirled and pointed the tip at Eyal's throat. I pulled the Kumosaiga back and dropped it. His eyes were soft and I knew instantly that he had been keeping up with my progress. He moved closer to me and pulled me gently against him and ported us away. The next thing I knew I was against a heavy oak door and I was being kissed so very deeply. He managed to drag his lips from mine and began scraping the flesh of my neck with his fangs. I was moaning and it struck me that no words had been spoken. He seemed to draw himself back in and his red eyes met my amber-brown eyes.

“You are a powerful being to survive such blood loss.” He murmured.

“It was sheer dumb luck and quick thinking on my general's part.” I said.

He cut open his neck with a claw and I was mesmerized by the wound. I leaned forward and latched onto the cut. I sucked on it hard and he moaned loudly underneath me. His blood would have healing properties and he was giving it to me in hopes it made me stronger. I drank from him and we both sank to our knees. I finally pulled back and wished I could take more.

“My heart was damaged.” I murmured.

“Stay here for a few days and I will see to it that it is healed.” He muttered.

“I can do that.” I replied.

“I want to bind you to me.” He stated warmly.

“What?” I asked floored.

“Not for the reason you think; if I bind you to me then you can pull from my power. I am two millenniums old and access to that kind of yoki as you call it can be an asset to you even if I am not near you.” He said softly.

“You wish me to channel you?” I asked dumbly.

“I can still take more damage then you. You are barely over a century and I am one of the oldest uppyr. I have done some checking on rumors and this Lei Jing is close to a millennium.” He remarked.

“I thank you for the offer but no.” I said looking away.

“Do not be asinine!” he snapped.

“Why am I being asinine? My personal life is a little crowded as it is.” I said defiantly.

“You nearly died and I could not help you. You are strong and powerful but there are limits because you have not come into your full power as of yet. Why do you balk at a chance to increase your strength?” he asked archly.

“What you are supposing is very personal.” I said staring into his brown eyes.

“We have not been personal before? I have made love to you and been in your very mind. How much more personal can we get?” he said in supreme irritation.

“You have kept tabs on me so to speak?” I asked shocked.

“Da. I knew when you woke up and I have been to your rooms in Japan. I had to mask heavily as your father would probably not be too pleased.” He said leveling me a stare.

“Kamis I cannot believe this. Go ahead.” I said in defeat.

“It is not unlike what you have done with the shape shifter. He is very powerful to be sure but I am what you are and alike yoki can only increase your strength.” He said releasing me gently.

“You are saying you will bind yourself to me forever. You are mating me in a sense.” I said bluntly.

“Well do you intend to stay monogamous?” he asked as bluntly.

“No.” I admitted.

“Well then I see no issue.” He shrugged.

“Good Kamis!” I said pacing.

“You have the will to defeat the wraiths and together we can smite them from existence if need be. I for one still want to find out who possessed me and make that particular group pay with their very lives. I can be quite vicious as you know.” He said darkly.

“Hai I know!” I said looking back at him.

“You have the potential to match my power Asuna. You have the potential for far greater then what you are now. You have powerful parentage and I would dare say your offspring will be major forces to be reckoned with. If you were to birth an uppyr babe there is no telling how strong that child would be.” He said leaning against the door.

“Are you suggesting I give you a child?” I asked raising a brow.

“No. It was a statement. I am not that wraith. I have my son who is grown and I am quite proud of him.” He said standing to his full height.

“I see. When do you propose to bind me to you?” I asked.

“When your heart has been strengthened. I am taking you back to your palace so your dog daemon generals do not go run and tell your father you were kidnapped. I really have no wish to deal with an irate Elizaveta.” He mumbled.

“Why do you call her that? Augusta is her given name.” I said confused.

“Augusta is a formal name and title. Elizaveta is the name I gave her when she was in Danika's womb. She is far removed from me in blood but she is a distant relation. Augusta as you know means first woman in Latin.” He answered.

“I hated my grandmere.” I hissed.

“She did turn out rather wanton. That was the wraith's fault and I am sorry. She was a sweet girl at one time.” He remarked.

“The same as Ileska? Both were whores!” I snapped.

“Again this is past. Stasio was also a depraved monster. He did that all by himself. If I had been aware I would have killed him myself. Elizaveta and Viktor should never have been treated or subjected to what they were. I cannot change what was but I can change what is.” He stated rather emphatically.

“You best take me back.” I said with a clenched jaw.

“Yes. I would truly prefer if you stayed here but it is a wiser course to take you back. I have caught several glimpses of your father and he is just as powerful as I am.” He said pulling me closer.

“My grandsire was almost as powerful. I miss Touga.” I said looking away.

“Come.” He said as he ported us away.

We were back at Shanghai and in my study. I could sense Baku coming and Eyal ported so quickly I was in awe. Baku walked in and he looked concerned.

“You were not here a few minutes ago.” He said.

“I am trying to practice my porting.” I said unblinkingly.

“You are lying but I shall not pry.” He said bowing.

“Baku wait!” I said as he quit my presence.

“You do not owe me an explanation. Please just do not lie to me. I can sense it and that rankles my very soul. Just tell me it is none of my business. I serve the West but I am your humble general.” He said turning.

“I am sorry. I am afraid that my sire will try and sequester me again. I am going stir crazy.” I said honestly.

“Look I shall be blunt and then I shall go back to being respectful. You have needed to slow down. Your chest wound was truly horrendous and I have never seen that much blood. You almost bled out and there was almost not a damn thing anyone could do about it.” He said quietly.

“I lived!” I said exasperated.

“Barely. I agree with your father to a certain extent but you are grown and you do rule your own lands. I love you but I will not watch you commit suicide as my heart cannot handle that. We are involved but I can and will distance myself in order to save myself that pain. I have seen you go through it too often.” He stated and stalked away.

“Do not dare walk away from me!” I hissed.

I followed him and he kept walking. He had become stronger in his own person and I hated to say that it made him all the more attractive to me.

“Baku!” I snapped.

“What?” he said as he turned.

I did not think as I refused to let him walk away from me ever. My feelings for him were becoming quite violent and were consuming me. He managed to pull my very inu nature to the surface. I pinned him to the wall and began scenting his neck. I flooded him with my feelings and I watched as he closed his eyes. He was not shielding and he was a more powerful empath than Tekeshi had been. Baku's yoki was not subtle at all.

“You are not thinking clearly. You need to think objectively.” He whispered.

“I love you! How dare you threaten to walk away from that!” I snapped.

“I love you too and that is why I would. You allow yourself to become crippled and I will not! I have had a lifetime of feeling other individual's feelings! I have felt yours on more than one occasion and it is crippling!” he snapped back.

“You will not walk away from us.” I said flatly.

“You will not command me on such a personal nature my lady. You have strengthened me and I am grateful but you will not command me in this area.” He said in return.

I licked my lips and my fangs and claws were lengthening but it was by my will. He looked at me and pushed me off.

“You will not bully me in this. Good day my lady.” He bowed and walked on.

I ran after him and grabbed his arm. I turned him and his eyes were cold. I was taken back at his air and I snarled at him. I was hurt and very angry; I stalked away from him and I decided why should I care. He grabbed me and pulled me to him with my back facing his chest.

“I picked you up at Kyoto because I was completely taken with you. It killed me to see you so battered and bruised and it happened again at Jinzhou but I was already smitten. I hate feeling as though if you were to pass on then I could not go on.” He said in anger.

“So you pass on a chance for a truly astounding relationship. Bravo Baku! I have no need for more cowards in my personal life.” I hissed.

“I am the coward here? You lie with ease and you wish me to continue to hand you my heart? Would you trample it with ease as well?” he demanded.

“Let me go and go back to the West. Go bury your head in your books.” I snapped.

“As you command my lady.” He sneered.
He released me and I was beyond incensed. I turned to slap him and he caught my hand. Our eyes met and we both were furious. I growled loudly as did he.

“I am sorry I lied to you. An uppyr took me and he wishes to make an alliance that I do not know I can do.” I snarled.

“Alliance?” he asked dropping my hand.

“He wishes to bind himself to me so that I may channel his yoki. His is close to two thousand summers old.” I explained.

“Who is this?” he asked.

“His name is Eyal.” I said.

“Did you not face the ruler of the uppyr at one time and barely live that time as well?” he asked me.

“I faced Vlad hai. Hai it was a close call. This is not the same uppyr.” I stated.

“Here again you are fudging the truth Asuna!” he hissed.

“A wraith possessed Vlad and that is the creature who tortured me was not Eyal.” I said rolling my eyes.

“Oh my Kamis! You are a fool! Do your will. Get taken in by that thing!” he snarled in a near rage.

“If you say for me not then I will not do it.” I said softly.

“What?” he asked me stunned.

“I will not allow it if you do not wish it.” I repeated.

“I do not want you to do it.” He said flatly.

“Alright then.” I said looking away.

I turned and walked away from him. I needed to distance myself physically so I could work through my feelings. The intensity of my feelings was frightening me. What I was feeling rivaled my feelings for Naraku and I shook my head. I could love and then there was the all consuming love that would turn me into a beast. I sighed and walked back into my study. Eyal would be rather put out but I was not willing to lose Baku for it. I flopped into the low chair and was almost sulking. I looked up and Baku was in my doorway.

“What do you want from me?” he asked bluntly.

“Your love.” I answered laying my head on my desk.
”You have it. You want something else.” He said.

“Stay out of my feelings!” I snapped.

“How can I? I feel them when I am nowhere around you as well.” He said leaning against the doorframe.

“I want you to mate me, since I cannot keep my feelings to myself.” I said sarcastically.

“Did we not agree that it was not a good idea?” he asked softly.

“Hai we did. I lied okay? It was easier to say that then tell you I want you apart of me.” I said ashamed.

“Why do you do that?” he asked me coming into my study.

“Because I want what I want. I want you so much right now that I would run away to another part of the world to have you all to myself.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“What happens when you tire of me?” he asked directly.

“If you think that then get the hell away from me.” I growled.

“Because I make you face the truth?” he demanded.

“You are bringing things out in me I have not felt in a long time. I feel like the Asuna of old and not what I have become.” I said sighing.

“What are you saying?” he asked me.

“I have no idea.” I said shaking my head.

“Then why push it?” he asked me.

“Can you stop asking me questions and stay out of my damn feelings? You know how to shut me out so do it okay? I would like some privacy. I do not listen in on your thoughts that often.” I said in a very foul mood.

“I have no wish to stay out of your feelings.” He said frowning.

“Then get what you get!” I snapped.

“You wish to me to mate you?” he demanded.

“No. I really do not. I wish to be left alone at the moment and that is the truth!” I hissed.

He stared at me and then straightened himself and left. I sighed in supreme irritation and decided that I should probably rest. I stood up and walked into my chambers. I lay upon my futon and shut my eyes. I felt dread overcome me and I rolled quickly. Lei was over me and I shrieked in fury. I began stabbing at him with my claws and he grunted in pain. He too was still recovering it seemed but he managed to haul me up. I had no idea how he came upon me without my knowing.

“So my pretty little bitch whore you are awake. I had heard you fell into a death coma. You are coming with me.” He snickered.

I bit into his arm and began drinking his blood. I could not beat him as an inu so I would try some basic uppyr yoki. He shouted and I knew that some soldiers would come. I had to keep him here long enough before he could port me away. He tried to rip me away from his arm but I clamped down harder.

“Slut!” he screamed as he hit me.

My eyes had bled red and I felt Eyal there in an instant. Lei was thrown backwards with such force that I heard a bone snap. The uppyr ruler pulled me to him and he looked down to assure himself that I was alright.

“How dare you interfere uppyr! Who are you that you should interfere in my revenge?” Lei snarled.

“I am Vlad Tepest and you attack what is mine wraith!” he smirked at Lei.

“You are dead!” Lei Jing said narrowing his soulless eyes.

“Really? Am I dead Lady Asuna?” Eyal asked me in heavy sarcasm.

“No, I killed the wraith that possessed you.” I said smirking.

“Idiot!” Lei shrieked and disappeared quickly.

Eyal pulled me up and looked me over. I heard pounding on my door and he decided to port away. Baku burst in and looked around. He could scent that there had been two males here and he came to me.

“What happened?” he demanded.

“Lei Jing came upon me. I have no idea how he does it. The uppyr ruler was here as well and intervened.” I said honestly.

Baku grunted and grabbed me. He held me close and ported us away. We reappeared back in the West and he let me go. He looked exhausted and I was furious at losing my freedom yet again. I tore myself from him and I walked away from him. He seemed to gain some balance and followed me. I turned and pushed him so hard he staggered back.

“My lady your father would command me to do what I just did. That filth laid hands on you again!” Baku shouted.

“Leave me alone! Do you think if he wanted to come here then he could?” I demanded.

“Here we can move quicker. Damnit Asuna stop!” he shouted again.

“No! I have had enough of you for one day. I am in need of a bath and some rest. Go tend your soldiers general.” I hissed.
I went to the hot spring and slammed the shoji door shut. I locked it and slipped out of my hanfu. Anger and disgust filled me. I needed to strengthen my heart and then go after Jing. I scrubbed my skin to get the stink of the wraith off of me. There was knocking on the door and I growled very loudly. The knocking grew louder and I sank under the water. I unlocked the door with my mind and Baku slipped in. He averted his eyes and I rolled mine.

“You have seen me naked Baku, please!” I snapped.

“You have had enough of me for one day.” He said in a snippy tone.

I stood up and walked directly to him and held his jaw. I held his gaze and I began devouring his mouth. My hands were in his high pony tail undoing it. His lips were suddenly at my throat and I snapped my fangs. I ended up against the wall. His eyes were red and he allowed me to hear his thoughts. He was thinking rather possessive and aggressive things at the moment. It hit me that when he learned to shut the world out, his own opinions and feelings were his alone. He growled then pulled back. He had slammed up his mental shields again.

“I need to go.” Baku stated half heartedly.

“You need a bath I think.” I purred.

I raised my brow at him and I pushed him. He landed squarely in the hot spring and came up sputtering.

“Kamis damn it Asuna! Some of us lowly inu are not as rich as the royal family! I would prefer to keep my clothing in tact!” he hissed.

“As if I would not replace a haori or hakamas.” I said slipping in beside him.

“Fine then replace them.” He snapped as he stripped out of the wet silk.

He opened my thighs and settled between them and began kissing me again. He was slipping back and forth between being furious with me and mind blowing lust. His mouth and tongue were bringing me to an edge. He slowly pulled back again and looked at the scar in my chest. He traced it with his fingers and I could tell he was deep in thought.

“I am a taiyouki and I have miko blood. When we make love you feel the spiritual energies. Why can I not channel that same thing and heal the weakness in your heart muscle.” He murmured.

“I do not know how you would do it. Akemi has spiritual powers and I am sure she could tell you.” I said with my eyes closed.

He jumped out of the hot spring and threw on a yukata. He bowed and left. I was dumbfounded and growled in supreme irritation. He had enticed me into rutting and then left me wanting.

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He had gone back to his parents' castle and changed into sparring clothes and took in a deep breath. He ported himself to Kyoto and the West's palace there. Akemi and her mate lived there most of the time. He walked in and bowed to a soldier.

“General Baku!” the brown inu said.

“At ease. Is the Lady Akemi in residence?” he asked.

“Hai. She is in the gardens actually.” The soldier said.

“Thank you.” Baku stated then went in search of his lover's cousin.

He found her helping her young son to walk around and she looked up. He knew her little and he bowed.

“General Baku! What brings you to Kyoto?” she asked.

“I need to see if you could teach me how to bring forth spiritual powers.” He said softly.

“You?” she asked in surprise.

“Hai my lady. My family originally hails from the North and we are distantly related to Lord Tekeshi.” He said.

“Wow!” she said whistling.

“Can you teach me?” he asked.

“Hai. It is pretty easy actually.” She smirked.

“Khenti go find pawpaw.” She said softly.

“Hai.” The little boy said.

He walked back towards the palace and Akemi watched her son. She had to share Kasuna and it hurt to send her daughter to the south but she owed Daichi something for her betrayal. He would actually speak to her now for short periods of time. She still felt horrid at how she had treated him. She smirked at Baku and let her own power flow into her hands as she went to strike. The inu general was stunned but put up his own hands in defense. His energy was a purplish color. She was astonished and he looked surprised.

“You have a toxin correct?” she asked him.

“Hai. Is this my version of spiritual powers?” he asked staring at his hands.

“Hai. What an interesting creature you are Baku.” She said smoothly.

“Thank you!” he said quickly and bowing.

He ported away and made it back to the Western Palace. He went in search of Asuna and he intended for her to have no reason to rely on the uppyr.

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I was sitting in my chambers in a very grumpy mood and I saw Baku slip in. He smirked and came to my side. He opened my kimono and I watched him. He pressed his hand to my chest and I gasped as I felt a burning pain but at the same time warmth spread throughout my torso. It hurt and felt wonderful at the same time. He finally pulled his hand back and then pressed his ear to my chest.

“It sounds a little different. It does not sound irregular at all now. I would have Yasu see but I think that did it.” He said softly.

“Why did you do that?” I asked him.

“Because you have no need to bind yourself to that creature. I know you are half uppyr but you are inu in your soul.” He said standing.

“Baku.” I stated softly.

“I have things that need tending but I am sending Yasu to make sure you are better. You have helped me to unleash my yoki. I believe that in terms of yoki I am stronger than Yuudai was, I mean no disrespect by that.” He said taking my hands.

“None taken. He was a very strong normal inu.” I said softly.

Baku eyes held something and he hauled me up.

“Meet me in the forest.” He whispered in my ear.

“Alright.” I replied.

He walked away and I waited for him to get some distance and I was curious as to what was going through his head. I ported to the forest and I was surprised I did not feel so drained. I scented the air and I caught a faint trace of him. He was aroused and that instantly intrigued me. He was in a strange mood and I followed his trail. He was playing a game with me and I found myself highly amused. I was a master hunter and as far as I knew he did not have the ability to mask like I did. He had gone through a small stream and I had to concentrate and feel for his aura. He was circling me it seemed and he was hunting me. My general continued to surprise me. I masked myself totally and suppressed a chuckle. I jumped up into the tree and waited. I saw him come into the clearing and he was trying to scent me as well. I openly smiled and I jumped down silently and grabbed him. He whirled on me and pressed me into the tree. His smile was lazy and sensual. He lowered his lips to my neck and sucked aggressively on my pulse point. I sighed in delight and he began nipping. His behavior was very inu in nature and I wondered at it. He pulled me from the tree and released my neck.

“Come I want to show you something.” He whispered.

I nodded and he dragged me along. Baku was coming into his power and potential and I realized how his temperament changed subtly. He was becoming an alpha male to a degree. He pulled me through an overgrowth of trees and into a clearing. It was so beautiful that I covered my mouth. There was lush green grass and a myriad of dozens of different flowers. It was all nestled between thick tree growth and I looked at Baku.

“I found this place as a pup. It always calmed me to come here. It seemed like it was all my own.” He explained.

“It is so very beautiful.” I said looking around.

He again pulled me to him and began nuzzling my neck. He slowly opened my kimono and dropped it to the ground.

“You can afford more silk.” He teased.

“This reminds me that I need to replace yours.” I said softly.

My hair was partially up and he undid it. It fell down my back and I did the same to him. He pulled me forward by the back of the neck took total possession of my mouth. He was dominating me and I was mewling immediately. He very slowly released my mouth and gently leaned me back slightly and ran his finger tips along my collar bone and between my breasts. It was so soft and but highly sensual. I shut my eyes when those same fingertips brushed my twin peaks. His fingertips ran down my stomach and I was whimpering softly. He pulled me forward and held me up by placing his hands supporting my shoulder blades. He laved my shoulders and then my breasts with his tongue and lips. I was breathing hard and a dull ache began in my center. He slowly slid down my stomach to place his lips and tongue along every dip and every curve. He looked up at me and I was surprised to see his eyes were burning a ruby color. I moaned as he spread my nether lips and all he did was place a lingering kiss. I squeezed my eyes shut at his feather light torture. I heard him growling low and I opened my eyes to meet his eyes.

“Baku?” I asked him softly.

“Shhh. Your scent is so feminine. Your need is weeping for me.” He nearly purred.

He licked my slit very lightly and I groaned. He flicked his tongue against my nub and I fought the urge to scream out. He was keeping everything soft and slow. I was curious at his red eyes but quickly lost the thought when he lightly sucked on my clit.

“Baku please!” I begged.

“Take this Asuna. Take what I offer you right now.” He murmured in a low growl.

He slipped one finger into my waiting and dripping core and I did cry out. He stroked one spot and I tried to buck my hips but he held my hip firmly. He was on his knees and I looked down and he freed himself from his hakamas. His hand wrapped around his own length and I sucked in my breath. He lazily stroked his member as he massaged the small area that made me crazy.

“Do you see what you do to me my princess?” he moaned.

“Hai.” I bit out as my body was slowing becoming so tense I wanted to beg him to take me.

He barely increased the speed of his finger and he leaned forward and suckled my bundle of nerves again. I released a breathless moan and he brought me to the brink of a massive orgasm but would not let me fall. I groaned in frustration and he released my nub. I growled as he pulled me down and I looked at him in anger as he was still on his knees stroking his staff in an unhurried motion. He let go of his manhood and guided me down. I threw my head back and cried out loudly. He gathered me to him and I felt the flesh of his chiseled chest against mine and I could not contain my sighs and moans of almost utter ecstasy. One hand was on my lower back and one on my upper back guiding me.

“Baku! Kamis what are you doing?” I nearly screamed.

“Feel me as you did last time. Feel as though you are inside me this moment. Feel how it feels as your walls clutch me so damn tightly.” He whispered fiercely.

I was drowning in sensation but he was keeping me from climaxing. I leaned my head to his and I began a steady moan as we moved in unison. He was holding back but then suddenly he flooded me with his spiritual power and I released a soundless scream. I was spiraling so fast I was unprepared when my body reacted ferociously. My claws gouged his skin and my fangs lengthened. I was slammed with such a powerful release Baku held me up. He snarled as his own body reacted to mine. I felt his fangs at my throat and then in my juncture deeply. I climaxed again and trembled violently against Baku as he clamped down harder on my tender spot. He released my throat and roared as he released his essence in both power and seed. I sagged against him and I was vaguely aware that he had marked me. I had been totally submissive and I was shocked. He held onto me as he rode out his release.

“You are ours!” he growled very low.

“Hai.” I moaned.

He lifted me off of him and he turned me so that I was on all fours. I shut my eyes in the supreme pleasure of him again.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I woke up slowly and I did not recognize where I was. Baku slept beside me and I felt my neck. He had taken me several times and remarked me. I was in shock at myself and him for his behavior. He had not lost control of his beast and in fact he had been tender and loving. I slowly crawled out of the futon and went to a looking glass. He had gone over Naraku's mark and my jaw dropped. The scar was almost healed and it was circular in shape. I looked back at Baku and he still slept. I went to the shoji door and slid it open. We were in his private rooms at Jouichi's castle. I slid the door shut and I leaned against the wall. Baku opened his eyes and looked up at me.

“Hello.” He said softly.

“Hello.” I replied.

He sat up and stretched. He was quite naked and he reached over his futon for a yukata.

“Did you intend to mate me?” I asked him softly.

“Hai.” He replied.

“You did?” I asked surprised.

“Hai. You are mine. You are mine to protect and you are mine to love.” He said stepping past me and into a closet.

“Uhhh” I stuttered.

“I have no need to order you about Asuna. I am not about control and I hope to partner with you on our future. I want a future with you.” He stated as he dressed.

I was floored and he moved closer and scented my neck. The mere act of which made me want to meld against him. He reached a hand up and lightly caressed his mating mark and it sent powerful shivers of pleasure down my spine. His mark was no ordinary one and Baku lightly ghosted his lips against mine.

“You are mine. I am sure I have loved you since Kyoto.” He whispered gently.

My eyes were wide and I did not care that he was making me submissive.

“Asuna, I am going to check on the men. I sent a message to Yasu to come check on you.” He stated as he slipped on his geta.

“Here?” I asked as if coming out of another coma.

“Hai. Why should you not be here? Our relationship has been no secret and why should my mate not be in my family's castle?” he asked me pulling his hair up into a pony tail.

“We are mated.” I repeated.

“Hai. We are mated.” He said kissing my lips.

“Have you always been this way?” I asked.

“Hai. You have come to know me quite well. I may be a quieter individual but I have opinions and such just like anyone.” He said rubbing his knuckles along my cheek.

I lifted my hands and held his face; our lips melded as I became lost in him. He groaned and pressed me against the door of the closet. He slowly pulled away and shut his eyes for a moment.

“I will see you soon.” He said pulling away and bowing.

I watched him go and I was sent reeling. Baku had done something that no inu had been able to do before. I wanted to be tamed by him. I put on a yukata and I did not wait long for Yasu who came in. He looked me over and motioned for me to sit.

“Well let me listen.” He groused.

I sighed and sat. He listened to my chest and he whistled.

“Your heart is perfect again! Well that is a beautiful mating mark and it is inu!” He snorted.

“Shut up Yasu!” I snapped.

“Yup that is a mating mark of a northern inu. You figured out they mated with mikos for generations the way the Panyu did with uppyr?” he asked.

“You knew?” I asked.

“Hai. I am old remember? I remember old Takuma. Hai young Baku will have a calming influence on your wild ass!” Yasu chuckled.

“I swear I wish I could rip out your tongue!” I snapped.

“You know what pup? I love you but you are silly onna at times.” He said standing.

“Gee thanks.” I said glaring at him.

“You need to stop taking those herbs and see your aunt.” He stated.

“Why?” I demanded.

“Well you are having a pup like you should be. The scent is very faint yet.” He said dusting off his haori.

“Why do I even bother trying to stop being pregnant? A male has a sexual dream and I daresay I end up pupped!” I said in irritation.

Yasu barked his laughter and shook his head.

“Well if you were a normal bitch then you would be praised for your ability to bare such strong and many pups. If you were still Sorami then you would have been praised indeed. Deal with it and if you wish we can remove your womb.” Yasu smirked.

“Hell no!” I snapped.

“Well then deal with it.” He said leaving.

I ported to the palace and directly into my father's study. Thankfully he was alone and he looked up and quite pleased. I pulled down the neck of my haori and he scented me. He broke out into a rare smile.

“I am well pleased.” He stated.

“I do not know what to think.” I said looking down.

“You love him.” He said.

“I do. He did not mark me with his inner self.” I said sitting.

“It was the same with your mother. I chose to mate her quite rationally. My beast was in complete agreement but I made the decision completely in control.” He remarked.

“I do not understand.” I stated looking away.

“It was not a decision he made lightly. My respect for him is tremendous. Go on now and relax.” He said dismissing me.

I sighed and nodded. I suddenly felt very guilty with the turn of events. I knew I was madly in love with Baku and he felt the same for me. I walked to my chambers and looked around. I settled at my small desk and began reading letters from all of my lands. I needed to return to the mainland and rule my lands.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Sesshomaru left his study and went in search of Sir Jouichi. He was so very pleased with the turn of events that he smirked. He found Jouichi with his merchant suppliers in the courtyard of the palace. All the inu went to their knees when they saw him.

“Jouichi follow me.” He commanded.

“Hai my lord.” Jouichi said following him.

“I will be blunt and to the point. Baku has mated Asuna.” He said.

Jouichi stopped and looked completely shocked.

“My lord I had no idea. I knew they had become close but I assure you we as a family had no design on this event.” Jouichi said horrified.

“Jouichi calm yourself. This Sesshomaru is pleased with the match.” He said bluntly.

“That is a relief my lord. Baku is a good boy.” He said looking down.

“I know. He is more than worthy of her. Your mate is a relation of Tekeshi?” he asked.

“Hai my lord. Her grandmere was the youngest pup. When the North fell the dragons hunted the relatives of Tekeshi. Her grandmere went into hiding and came here to the West. Your grandsire hid them well.” Jouichi replied.

“They are having a pup.” The Western Lord informed his noblemen.

“I am thrilled honestly but is that what the princess wishes?” the inu noble asked.

“She is not opposed to it. She has fallen deeply in love with him. Baku is good for her.” He said looking directly at Jouichi.

“Hai my lord.” He bowed.

Jouichi retreated from the great silver inu. He went to the barracks and found his son practicing with the katana that Hideaki had bequeathed him. Baku looked up and saw his father. He stopped and bowed to his sire.

“You mated the princess?” he asked his son.

“Hai. I did not think you would stop me from following my heart.” Baku replied.

“The princess? Baku, she is divided.” He said softly.

“I have my plans.” He said casually.

“Did you know she is pupped?” Jouichi asked.

“Huh?” Baku said dumbly.

“Hai her sire told me himself and he is pleased.” The inu noble stated.

“Pardon me father.” Baku said walking past his sire.

Baku went immediately to his new mate's chambers and he found her writing correspondence and wearing a flowing white and black hanfu. A lump formed in his throat and she looked up. She gave him the most beautiful smile and his whole world seemed more alive.

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

Baku came up to me and went to his knees. He scented me closely and stared up at me with such love and adoration.

“Kamis it is such a beautiful scent. You are not unhappy?” he asked me.

“I am not unhappy. I seem to have the opposite problem of my mother. Did you perchance have an erotic dream?” I asked him in a teasing tone.

He burst out laughing and pulled me to him. He looked so happy that it was infectious. He pulled me to him and whirled me around.

“I thought you stated that you were young yet and you did not need a mate?” I asked him.

“You said in Shanghai that you wanted me to mate you and I concurred. I felt the truth so I came to the conclusion that I could and would do as you wished.” He smirked.

“Good Kamis Baku! Well you are stuck with me.” I said shaking my head.

“Hai and I like the idea. When did we make a pup? I have been careful.” He said sitting on my futon.

“Who knows. I believe my uppyr heritage makes it damn near impossible for me to follow a normal cycle of heat. I seem to be in heat more often than a normal inu bitch and that is how my mother is.” I sighed.

“Well we shall have Yasu figure this out. I really need to get back and do my job but you look so damn beautiful.” He said smirking.

“Thank you.” I grinned.

“Alright I shall go now.” He said nuzzling my neck.

“I hope you follow your sire's track record and give me a daughter.” I whispered in his ear.

“I have many female cousins on his side. Rest assured you probably do carry a girl.” He smirked.

“Okay then. You may go and knock katanas with the men.” I purred.

He gave me a rather wanton look and growled softly as he slipped away from me. He reminded me so much of my father in temperament now. I sat back down and began writing to Geming in Hong Kong and Sheng in Manchuria. I felt the similar dread that I had in Shanghai and I stood up and dove for the Kumosaiga. Lei was leaning against my armoire smirking.

“You have lost your mind to try and attack me here!” I hissed.

“I have thrown a barrier around this room. You have become quite the pain in my backside whore. Your mate Naraku has been quite the terror lately.” He cooed.

I rushed him and he threw me against a wall. He came over to me and I held onto my fang tightly produced the voiding shoki. He jumped back and pulled his own blade.

“You have no idea what that shoki is do you?” he asked with a malicious smirk.

“Should I care?” I hissed.

“Shall I take you into the void?” he laughed.

“Go back to the Netherworld where you crawled out of!” I snarled.

“I am from Mongolia but if you insist upon calling my homeland the Netherworld then so be it.” He laughed.

He moved in a blur behind me and I whirled on him and he disappeared and reappeared in front of me. I watched in horror as his hands seem to phase out and he reached into my arms and grabbed a hold of my bones themselves. I heard one forearm crack and the pain was horrendous.

“I have been gaining strength back my little slut. You shall see exactly what a wraith is.” He sneered.

I broke his grip on my other arm and managed to shove my claws into his upper arm and flooded him with my acidic toxin. He shrieked his unholy noise and that would bring any inu within a five mile radius here. He stepped back and I did as well. I transformed to my true self and let my saliva come forth. I limped but I kept moving towards him. My acid was dripping everywhere and my chambers would be ruined but trying to kill Lei was worth it. I moved quickly and my front leg throbbed badly but I managed to bite into his leg and I began shaking him like I would prey. He shrieked again and injected me with his shoki but I had a death grip on him. I heard shouting and screaming outside my door but I refused to let go. All of a sudden my sire stepped in as I imagined he had used Bakusaiga on the barrier. I was snarling and I saw Ang Chi behind him. Lei did as well and he actually phased out his leg and he screamed in pain as he did so. Ang Chi looked horrified and I changed back and staggered over in front of him. He was beaten but he had gotten a good look at Ang Chi.

“You look like your mother.” Lei whispered.

“Sorry but the Lady Asuna is my mother shit face!” Ang Chi hissed.

“This is nowhere from over my little harlot!” Lei said ogling me.

I growled and moved to strike with my fang but he disappeared. I went to my knees and held my arm. His shoki was burning like hellfire.

“Mother?” Ang Chi said as he came to my side.

“I will be alright. Was Bai a possessor wraith?” I asked him.

“I really do not know Mother. I do not even know if I have any wraith yoki.” He said softly.

“Oh I am sure you do. Why else would Lei want you if you did not have his kind of yoki? No, he wants you because you are half wraith and he thinks you waste among inu.”

“I will get Yasu.” My sire said softly.

“That is the second time in a two day span he has tried to come after me. Something big must be brewing. He was not that strong yesterday.” I stated thinking.

“Her yoki waxed and waned.” Ang Chi stated.

“How and why?” I asked.

“She was secretive Mother. She did not like to share information with me.” He said looking away.

“Do you think maybe she was protecting you perhaps? It seems she abandoned your blood sister.” I said.

“I guess. I did not understand her motives or what drove her.” He replied.

“I am going after him.” I said standing with difficulty.

“Mother you are injured.” He said holding my good arm.

I heard Yasu enter as well as Baku. The golden general nodded to Ang Chi and Yasu got to work setting my bone. After Yasu had set it Baku came forward and placed his hands on my forearm and I felt the warmth and I sighed softly. He also moved his hands to where he had injected the shoki. I felt my body tingle pleasantly and I looked up at him.

“How did you learn?” I asked softly.

“Fear response.” He replied.

“Well young miss you were not hurt that bad.” Yasu said.

“Good!” I said standing.

“Ang Chi you are to shadow my mother.” I said as I grabbed a haori and hakamas from my ruined armoire.

“Could you see to it that my things are moved back to my old chambers?” I asked Baku.

“Hai but what are you doing?” he demanded.

“Nothing.” I said sweetly.

“Do not lie to me!” he hissed.

I walked past him and into another room and began stripping the hanfu from my body.

“You are going after him? Damnit all Asuna!” he snapped.

“This has to end Baku! This all has happened because I mated Katashi!” I hissed.

“That is ancient history.” He replied.

“Hai it is but I want my life back. I will not be sequestered anymore!” I said as I sheathed Kumosaiga.

“Asuna! I love you and I can help you.” He stated.

“Help me by gathering all the troops here and in Shanghai. Meet me in Beijing in three days.” I said putting on boots.

“Hai!” he said sighing.

“Baku. I will give you our pup and Jing will die.” I said flatly.

“I feel you. I can feel you even far away.” He said softly.

“I will think on it later Baku. I intend to end this and I intend to end the Ming Dynasty now.” I said then moved closer to him.

I kissed him and he growled as he wrapped his arms around me. He finally released me and left. He had a lot of work to do to get the troops ready. I ported to Hadasan and began hunting wraiths. I had taken in quite a bit of Jing's blood and I could sense him though weakly. The bastard was near and I lifted my nose to track his scent. I smirked and I smelled my toxin. I was almost giddy as I realized I had injured him pretty badly. I pulled my fang and masked my presence. The palace that had been wraith central was decimated but the city had weathered my mates it seemed. I moved silently and followed the scent of my toxin till I found Jing in a small castle. I entered and I took him by surprise.

“Well slut it seems you found me.” He snarled.

“Not hard when my Dakkasou is leaking from you. I am ready to be done with you. I am ready to deliver your soul to your wretched sister.” I stated in a frigid voice.

“Sorry I am not ready to die yet. You really should not have come here whore. This is the home of the Steppe Wraiths.” He smiled cruelly.

“Fine.” I said softly.

I channeled every bit of yoki I could and I swung my fang to the side. Jing had to port out of the way because the release of the wave was tremendous. I was thrown backwards as the castle exploded outward. The blast was huge and I was covered in rubble. I stood up and threw off wood and stone. I searched frantically for Jing and I was grabbed by the neck by another wraith. I began growling fiercely and he stared at me with contempt.

“Where is Jing?” I demanded.

“I am Jing.” He sneered.

“How many are there?” I hissed.

“Bai was the oldest. Lei said you were a foul mouthed tart.” The wraith said.

“So you must be an inept relative. You let your ass loving brother lead you?” I said sneering.

He threw me roughly and I landed on my rear. I looked up at him. He had black hair and eyes and he actually resembled Ang Chi.

“I am Renshu and you have our nephew.” He snapped.

“I also have your niece but everyone seems to forget her.” I said smirking.

“Bitch!” he snarled.

“Hai I am. Did big brother need his baby brother to come rescue him?” I asked in a condescending tone.

“Why are you still alive with your mouth?” he said narrowing his eyes.

“I am very good with a blade and I can drink blood.” I said laughing cruelly.

“Shut up!” he stated fiercely.

“Where is your brother, you piece of worthless crap!” I said getting up.

“You are quite surrounded inu. I suggest you do not be stupid.” Renshu smiled.

“Oh hai. Your true state I see. Well tell the cowards to show themselves and I will kill them.” I said moving closer to him.

“Back off dog!” he snapped.

“You are not very old are you?” I asked amused.

“Old enough.” He stated.

“So you are a depraved lunatic like your brother and sister?” I asked starting to circle him.

I could tell he was not that old. He had to be less then two centuries and Lei was a hell of a lot more powerful. My mind was working quickly and I decided to move. I threw myself at him and managed to pin him to the floor. I pulsed my yoki and threw a barrier around us and I ported away. My hand was around his throat and he looked horrified. I squeezed just enough and he did not move.

“Did your brother send you against me?” I demanded.

“He needed my help. You have nearly killed him.” He answered in an angry voice.

“He came after me first as did your sister. He sent a weaker creature after me. What an arrogant fool!” I snapped.

“Get off of me whore!” he hissed.

“Your brother is a bigger whore. Are you like him and covet males as well?” I asked in an amused tone.

“No.” he said frowning.

“Thank the Kamis for that.” I said rolling my eyes.

“Get off of me.” He stammered.

“How old are you?” I asked.

“One hundred twenty seven.” He mumbled.

“So you are young. How old is Lei?” I asked.

“Nine hundred and two.” He growled.

“So you really are the baby brother. Bai was the oldest?” I demanded.

“Yes.” He growled again.

“Interesting. Well you are my prisoner. I seem to be amassing my own little wraith coven.” I said in an amused tone.

“Get off of me!” he hissed.

“You do not like a female straddling you?” I asked.

“A wraith female yes. A dog no!” he snarled in a fury.

“Did Lei not tell you? I am half uppyr. He did say that wraiths and uppyr share a common ancestor.” I laughed again.

“You speak of the Ekiminu.” He said trying to push me off.

“A what?” I asked.

“Ekiminu. Gods you are stupid!” he snapped.

“What is an ekiminu?” I asked standing and putting a barrier around him.

“The have no corporeal form but they drink blood. We wraiths can see them in the void.” He said sitting up and dusting himself off.

“This void, what is it?” I demanded.

“I cannot explain it. It is another plane. We can reside there in our spirit forms. Why am I answering you?” he hissed.

“Because you will die.” I said flexing my claws.

“He will not appear in this form for awhile. Your blasted poison was eating him alive.” He stated in anger.

“Yeah well your shoki is oh so delightful.” I said sarcastically.

“So you are the baby. How did you two find out about my son?” I asked.

“Ang Chi is a member of our clan,” he said crossing his arms.

“Why did you not look for him till now? He found me years ago. He was alone and horribly miserable.” I said pacing.

“Bai hid his birth from us. She knew the wraiths would not accept him. That was what she thought. Whatever you thought of her, she did love her son. She gave up her daughter so she could hide Ang Chi away. She fell in love with that fucking dog and he spurned her.” Renshu growled.

“That dog as you put it was a dishonorable cur that screwed up badly. I would never have set foot in Manchuria if I knew what he had done. Your sister apparently lost her mind because she came after me. I was innocent of any wrongdoing and she killed a valued member of my military. She started the so called war with me because she was jealous. When Ang Chi found me, Tekeshi and I set out to restore Ang Chi to his birthright. I have tried to do right by him and I love him as my own. He wants nothing to do with you and since Lei raped me, he really wants nothing to do with you all.” I stated.

“You lie. Lei does not like females.” Renshu said in disbelief.

“It was not about preference for a rutting partner. He did it to punish me. Your brother is a sadistic fuck and you will probably turn into him as well.” I sneered.

“I do not believe you.” He said crossing his arms.

“I really do not care what you believe. You will not have my son. Your brother will die and you had better hope I stay in a good mood.” I said stalking away from him.

I walked into my study and sat down. I rubbed my temples and I felt Ang Chi of all auras. He slipped into the study and I glared at him.

“I told you to stay in the West!” I snapped.

“I can sense them Mother.” He stated quietly.

“Do not be impertinent and do not disobey me again!” I said in a growl.

“Yes mam. I am sorry. I only wish to help.” He said looking down.

“You have another uncle. I have him in the other room in a barrier.” I said shutting my eyes.

“May I see him?” he asked.

“Only with me in the room. Come.” I commanded.

Ang Chi followed me and I entered back into the spare chambers I had ported Renshu Jing into. Ang Chi moved ahead of me and he watched my prisoner.

“Bastard!” Ang Chi whispered.

“You call me a bastard? You side against your true mother's family for what?” Renshu asked.

“I am half inu as well. She never taught me a damn thing about you all. She barely said a word and I am supposed to care? I am sick of this crap! I want my Mother left alone!” he hissed.

“Your true mother did not think we would accept you and hid you away. I am sorry she did that but we would have taken you in. She hid you well and Lei had been looking for you for years. You were elusive.” Renshu said softly.

“I lived like an animal! I had to fight for survival. I want nothing to do with any Kamis damned wraith. I choose to be inu. Lady Asuna took me in after I attacked her and restored what my blasted sire would not do. She loves me as I am and understands my dual nature. She does not hate me because I am half wraith as your kind would hate me because I am half inu. You all can go to hell and burn for eternity as far as I care. My birth mother, Bai Gu Jing was ashamed of me; that is why she did not bring me to you all. She cared enough to not let me die but I assure you there was not much love!” Ang Chi said almost tearing up.

Renshu was speechless and I pulled him into a hug. I held him tightly and spoke to him in inu. I calmed him and he slipped from my embrace.

“Mother, I suggest killing him. They are worthless beings who only cause misery.” He said in disgust and left.

Renshu seemed stunned to his core and I watched him closely.

“He is the truly innocent one in the whole mess. Bai and Katashi were self involved fools. He is right though and I do understand him better then anyone can. I feel the pull of both my natures and it is hard. How could a pureblood understand anything?” I asked him.

“He is innocent but he has a right to know his family. You are no one to him!” he snapped.

“My daughter Hana has been raised as his sister but she is actually his aunt. I have his blood relatives in my house. There are descendents of the Northern Inu royal family in my father's lands and they are his blood as well. So do I deprive him of his family?” I demanded.

“His inu family maybe. He has us as well.” Renshu said stubbornly.

“I shall not argue with you. He is my son and I will not give him to you or any wraith.” I said sitting.

“We have families and we love our children inu.” He said narrowing his black eyes.

“Right. Even Lei? He seems more concerned with finding his next conquest.” I said flippantly.

“Bai and he were close. You killed his best friend.” He said bluntly.

“Well I had a right to defend myself. It is because of you wraiths that my mate consort was murdered. So Lei and I are even for he is responsible for my best friend's death.” I said sighing.

“I had nothing to do with that inu. I cannot stand mortals. Lei is fascinated with them.” He said disgusted.

“Well the Ming Chinese will fall and a powerful ally of your brother defeated. Naraku killed his lover.” I said examining my claws.

“You know that creature?” he asked shocked.

“I am soul bonded to that creature.” I said raising a brow.

“He has been razing wraith settlements all over central Asia. He is an evil bastard!” he snarled.

“He is avenging me. He is very much a Japanese youki and the notion of avenging one's love is very widely believed in and accepted.” I said staring at him.

“So killing innocents is okay with you?” he hissed.

“Killing wraiths? Hai I am okay with that.” I said cruelly.

“You are an evil whore!” he hissed.

“Oh your clan has taught me quite well.” I said stepping through my barrier.

He stepped back and I got right up into his face.

“You seem to be quite ignorant of your own brother's ways. Are wraiths telepathic?” I asked.

“Some are. I am not.” He said slightly nervous.

“Wells so sad for you. Lei plundered me mercilessly in order to try and break me. It obviously did not work. You are just a young and deluded fool. I feel sorry for you.” I said in a very low growl.

“Go to hell!” he snapped.

“Lady Asuna?” I heard a familiar voice call.

“I am in here Juuna.” I called back.

My friend and sister in law walked in and stared openly at my “guest”. I stepped back through my barrier and she seemed fascinated.

“This is a wraith?” she asked me.

“Hai.” I said.

“Of course you know Baku sent me. He wants to make sure you do not get yourself or the pup killed.” She said amused.

“I figured. He has become rather different.” I said smiling softly.

“Oh Baku has always been this way. He is very opinionated and very strong willed. He has just always been so soft spoken. You have turned him into our father!” she said laughing.

“Jouichi is rather quiet.” I remarked.

“Oh hai.” She smirked.

“Uh hello? Prisoner here not really caring.” Renshu said rolling his eyes.

“Let me through your barrier.” Juuna said with a predatory smirk.

“Go ahead.” I said smiling.

She walked through and walked straight up to Renshu. She scented him closely and smiled at me.

“Baku showed me how to call forth the spiritual powers.” She said softly.

“Spiritual powers?” Renshu asked suddenly.

“Hai. We are related to mikos. That is a human priestess.” Juuna smiled widely.

“Holy shit.” Renshu said backing up.

“Are you afraid of such power? Are you scared of being purified?” she asked coming closer.

“Stay away from me!” he said frightened.

“So a wraith is terrified of a miko's touch. Very interesting indeed. I imagine Akemi could lay waste to Lei.” I said considering.

“Baku would for sure.” She said smiling back at me.

“I shall leave him to you Juuna.” I said leaving the room.

“What shall I do to you?” she purred.

“Stay the hell away from me!” he hissed.

“You do not seem all that scary.” Juuna stated circling him.

“I am confined at the moment inu.” He sniped.

“Shall I show you something that I can do wraith?” she asked very sweetly.

She pulled him down and kissed him. He growled and then yelped in pain. He jerked away from her and he had no recourse. His damn brother had gotten him into a very dangerous situation and he was actually afraid. She had channeled her spiritual powers through her lips and it had stung. He looked her over and had to admit she was a vision of beauty. He had not expected to see such a pretty dog daemon.

“You are not unpleasant to look at either wraith.” She replied.

“How?” he asked surprised.

“I can feel what you are feeling. It is a handy ability.” She smiled.

He actually was very nervous and wished he could strangle his older brother at the moment. Renshu had just intervened so Lei could get away and now he was captured. The golden inu blinked her turquoise eyes at him and scented him again.

“You are afraid. You should be you know. Your brother brutalized Lady Asuna and Naraku. I must say that Naraku does not have a very nice reputation in Japan.” She smirked.

“I gathered. He has been killing wraiths brutally himself.” Renshu snapped.

“Well your older sibling did rape his mate. I would kill any wraith I came across too. Where is Naraku?” she asked sweetly.

“I do not know.” He answered defensively.

“Okay. Well you be a good little prisoner then.” Juuna said smiling widely.

The inu left and Renshu tried to find a weakness in the barrier. He was going to wring Lei's neck! His brother had a knack for getting the whole damn clan into trouble. He sighed and sat. He was hungry and tired and he was stuck in this plane.

“Damn Lei!” he muttered.

He saw movement and his niece appeared from the shadows. She moved forward and looked at the barrier.

“Meihui what are you doing here?” he asked softly.

“I followed my brother. Why has Uncle Lei left me?” she asked furiously.

“He is an idiot as you know but he is more powerful than most of us.” Renshu sighed.

“I can get you out. Take me with Uncle Renshu please!” she begged.

“Yes of course.” He said standing.

“I am gonna get burned but hold on. Ang Chi hates us! I mean really hates us. Mother left me for him!” she said in anger and betrayal.

She surged her yoki through her hand and shoved it through the barrier. She held in her shriek and the barrier slowly dissolved. She held onto her shaking hand and burnt flesh could be smelled.

Renshu came to her side and held onto her.

“Come on.” He replied gently.

She nodded and suddenly Ang Chi ran in with a katana drawn.

“Back down!” Renshu stated.

“You helped him?” Ang Chi asked Meihui.

“Shut up bastard! That is really what you are is a bastard.” She hissed.

Renshu did not wait and they disappeared into their mist. Ang Chi stepped back as he really had no wish to try and take on his half sister.

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I ran into the room and my son looked stricken.

“What happened?” I asked softly.

“Meihui followed me it seems. I should not have come. I am very sorry Mother.” He replied.

“No. It is fine. Renshu is not depraved. I shall have to deliver the wraiths to him it seems.” I said deep in thought.

“Huh?” Ang Chi asked.

“I cannot condone killing innocent beings son. I have to find Naraku and I have to kill Lei Jing. The wraiths can be led by this Renshu.” I said quietly.

“I do not understand.” He said.

“I need you and Juuna to go to Beijing and meet Baku.” I commanded.

“Lady Asuna! Baku will be furious!” Juuna said.

“You will obey me in this Juuna! Your brother is my mate and not my master. He will adjust. Now you two will go to Beijing!” I snarled.

“Hai my lady.” She said bowing.

I turned on my heel and I ported to Mongolia. I looked around and I was in a very arid area. Naraku had shut down the bond and I assumed because the pain had been unbearable. I opened my mind to trying to find him. He probably was not even aware that I was awake. I moved quietly and I sensed beings all around me. I could see some and others were phasing in and out. It seemed so odd to me to think that these creatures existed between the spirit world and the real world. I was beyond curious about the ekiminu as well. I could not sense Naraku and I made a very hard decision. I ported myself to Buda and Jarek shot up from his seat.

“Where is your father?” I asked.

“Hunting.” He said surprised.

“Where?” I demanded.

“In the forest.” He replied.

“Thank you.” I said then ported away.

There were wilds outside the city of Buda as well as ancient cave systems. I pulsed my aura and Eyal was by my side instantly. He seemed surprised at my appearance and I smirked.

“I did not expect to see you quite this soon.” He smiled.

“I have been busy. My general actually repaired the damage to my heart.” I replied.

“How?” he asked surprised.

“Well it is a long tale but it involves mikos and inu mating. Baku is a descendent of the Northern inu who in turn have spiritual powers.” I shrugged.

“Well it seems you do not need me. I am sure this was what he wanted.” He said as he eyed me.

“He is jealous hai.” I said.

“Beautiful mark. It is his I suppose?” he asked.

“Hai.” I said softly.

“Hmm. I hate to say that I am jealous as well. Interesting creature this Baku is.” He said.

“Eyal not now. What do you know of ekiminu?” I asked.

“They are blood drinkers but only in a spirit form.” He replied.

“Well a wraith that I had captured said that is the creature that uppyr and wraiths descended from.” I said.

“Interesting. It is possible for the uppyr to see them but it is rare. So what has happened?” He asked.

“Lei tried to attack me again but I was able to injure him pretty badly with my Dakkasou.” I said smiling.

“What is that?” he asked curiously.

I allowed my toxin to seep to my claw tips and lifted my hands. They were glowing green and his eyes widened. I let it recede and lowered my hands.

“That is my Dakkasou. Watch.” I said as I flung some into a tree and it ate away at the bark.

“Well you are poisonous.” He said smiling.

“I control my toxin. It is an inu thing.” I smiled.

“Well that is fascinating.” He said leaning against a tree.

“There are other types of uppyr right? I want to meet some. I want to put the fear of the Kamis in the wraiths.” I said bluntly.

“Asuna you do not know what you ask. They are not like us.” He said bluntly.

“You said they were afraid of our kind.” I commented.

“Da but they can be highly dangerous.” He said holding my shoulders.

“Eyal, you are the strongest amongst our kind and frankly you need to quit this castle and take up your mantle. I need your assistance.” I said frankly.

“God I cannot believe I am doing this.” He muttered.

“You like me.” I smirked.

“Da I like you. I like you too much.” He growled.

“Come. I have much to do and many wraiths to frighten.” I stated.

“Come they are uppyr in France and Prussia.” He said sighing.

“I have seen neither place. I do need to try and be in Beijing in a few days. The Ming are done for.” I said in a very nasty tone.

“Revenge huh?” he asked.

“Hai.” I said looking away.

He pulled me to him and we ported away.

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I was in a city and Eyal quickly covered my ears. I looked up at him annoyed and he smiled down at me.

“So how do we find them?” I asked.

“They will find us. Believe me they have no respect for other creatures.” He replied smoothly.

“Well I know many youki like that.” I stated with a haunted look.

He lowered his mouth to mine and began a long and rather passionate kiss. I moaned softly as he melded his body to me. He pulled himself away from me suddenly and began growling low in his throat. I stared at a creature of unbelievable beauty. He had light brown hair and very light green eyes. I noticed immediately his distinct aura. This was no regular uppyr that I was used to.

He spoke but I could only make out a few words. This language was based upon Latin. Eyal began speaking and the creature eyed me coolly. I stared right back.

“Who are you?” he asked in Latin.

“I am Asuna.” I replied inclining my head.

“I am Sebastien. You trespass.” He said narrowing his eyes.

“I came to find other uppyr.” I said.

“You are this creature's cunt?” he asked looking amused.

Eyal went to throw him with his mind but I stopped him. This Sebastien moved faster than I had ever seen and was on me in a second. I growled and he held my jaw tightly.

“Come any closer Romanian and I will snap her neck. Did you not tell this lovely creature that your kind and our kind are not friends?” he asked Eyal.

“Release her now!” he snapped.

“I am an incubus lady demon. You are not all uppyr are you?” he asked then licked my neck.

“No. I am half inu.” I said breathing roughly.

“Inu?” he asked cupping a breast.

“Let her go!” Eyal hissed.

“Uh uh Romanian. I may not have your mental powers but I can move faster than you. You wish her dead? I tell you what inu whatever that is, you explain why you are in Paris and I may not kill you.” He said in a very husky but deadly voice.

“Wraiths.” I said bluntly.

He released me and stepped back. He looked at me and then Eyal.

“Why do you mention such creatures?” he demanded.

“I want the wraiths to understand that they mess with one uppyr then they mess with us all.” I said moving closer.

“Interesting. Wraiths have been messing with you hmm? Nasty creatures they are and it is hard as hell to kill them.” He said coming closer to me again.

“What manner of uppyr is an incubus?” I demanded.

“Well we make your kind seem highly moral. Is that not right Vlad Tepest? I know who you are.” He said amused.

“They feed off of blood as well as auras. They take their food amidst sex.” Eyal said in disgust.

“Such judgments from the likes of you. You who are famous for impaling.” Sebastein said.

“He was possessed by a wraith.” I said in his defense.

“Oh so you pissed off the wraiths as well.” He said to Eyal.

“Come Asuna. He is a worthless being.” Eyal said with reddened eyes.

“I am a worthless being? You who shun all but your kind? You are laughable Romanian.” The other uppyr stated in anger.

Sebastein grabbed me roughly and smirked at Eyal.

“Find me if you can Vlad Tepest.” He purred.

We were gone in a second and I struggled against his great speed. I looked down and we were in the air. I struggled harder and he laughed.

“This is fun. I tell you what; if he can find us then I shall do your bidding. Now what is an inu?” he asked licking my neck.

Raw sexuality assaulted me and I knew what a predator this being was. Eyal had been right and I should have minded my own business.

“Inu is Japanese for dog. I am an inu youki which translates to dog demon.” I snapped.

“Really? How very different. It is not often you meet a hybrid uppyr.” He purred.

“Release me now!” I demanded.

“Okay.” He said dropping me.

I braced myself and willed myself to transform into my sphere. I could move at great speeds but he managed to grab hold of me in my yoki form. I had to transform back and I struggled.

“You are such an amazing creature.” He smirked.

“Let me go. I did not come to this horrid place to make enemies! I have faced enough evil creatures!” I hissed.

“You think me evil? How charming.” He laughed.

He landed and pushed me roughly against a stone obelisk.

“Where are we?” I asked in anger.

“A cemetery. I refuse to live amongst humans and act like them.” He snapped.

“Yet you feed off of them?” I asked arching a brow.

“Oh yes and it is delightful. I do not have to kill to get my nourishment. If we killed so much then we would be hunted. We are rumors and nothing more to these mindless brutes.” He said scowling.

“I understand your disdain for mortals but I am not mortal.” I stated.

“On no you are not mortal. Are all you inu youki so delicious looking?” he asked me.

“We typically are not ugly creatures.” I stated in anger.

“Which parent was the uppyr?” he demanded.

“My mother.” I stated frowning.

“Her name?” he demanded again.

“Augusta Orlovich.” I said staring into his light green eyes.

“A name I know of. She is rather succubus like I have heard.” He smiled.

“She is mated to my sire for well over a century. I have three brothers and a sister.” I snapped.

“Well this interesting. I have killed many wraiths in my time. It is easy when you can find them in spirit form.” He smirked.

“You can see them in their other form?” I asked eyes widening.

“Oh yes. They cower away from us. How long do you think it will take Vlad to find you?” he asked licking along my chin.

“He has taken in my blood. I imagine quickly.” I said.

“Well I think assisting you will be fun. I do not suppose you wish to share yourself?” he asked me in a deep husky voice.

“No.” I snapped.

“Oh well. I thought I would ask.” He smirked.

“Get your filthy hands off of her!” Eyal said from behind us.

“Sure. Very good Romanian. Shall I go to Walachia or Buda?” he asked.

“China.” I remarked.

“Really? Well this is interesting.” He smiled.

“Asuna I would rather fight the damn wraiths alone without this being.” Eyal growled.

“Eyal he can see the wraiths true forms!” I said excited.

“So?” he said in anger.

“You afraid of me Romanian?” Sebastein asked.

“Hell no! I can lay waste to you in a heartbeat. I do not because she does not want me to. Give me a good reason and I will!” he threatened the incubus.

Sebastein smirked and I sighed. I grabbed both males and ported us back to Shanghai. Sebastein glided away from my grasp and he looked around curiously. I pathed to my mother and knew she would be a great help in dealing with this creature. She was by my side in a heartbeat and she cocked her head to the side. She stared at the incubus and looked intrigued.

“My dearest girl what have you been doing now?” she asked.

“Mother this is Sebastein and he is an incubus.” I said softly.

Eyal snorted and my mother rolled her eyes at him.

“You let her bring an incubus here Vlad? Are you still insane?” she demanded.

“Shut up Elizaveta!” he growled.

“So you are the famed Augusta.” Sebastein purred.

“Your glamours will not work on me incubus. Why is he here Asuna?” she asked me.

“Apparently this type can see the wraiths in spirit form Mother. I can find Lei and kill him!” I said almost giddy.

“Darling if killing a wraith were that easy you would have done it already.” She said softly.

She looked up and I knew someone was pathing to her.

“Not now!” she hissed.

“Mother?” I asked softly.

“Chen.” She whispered.

“He has not felt you on the continent in awhile.” I whispered back.

“I shall be right back.” She said porting away.

“What the hell is going on with Elizaveta?” Eyal asked.

“Personal in nature.” I explained.

“Well this is too fun!” Sebastein stated in an amused tone.

I rolled my eyes and wondered what the Byakko were doing. I had not inquired what had happened and now I wish I had.

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Augusta ported to the forests outside of the Shanghai palace. She had not seen Chen since she had taken Zihao right from under their noses. She had left a letter explaining that Asuna needed her pups till she woke up. She had not realized how strong Chen had become. He stepped out of the tree line and she ached badly for him but kept a very calm demeanor and shielded heavily.

“She is awake.” He said softly.

“Hai. Just very recently. Jing has attacked her twice already.” She said calmly.

“Quon has been falling apart without his son and mate.” He said staring directly in her eyes.

“Where has Quon been? Sesshomaru forbade outsiders only when there were no moves made to see her.” She said sharply.

“Do not dare start Augusta. Quon has been bereft and severely depressed. He loves her and she cannot even see him?” he snapped.

“Sesshomaru did not even allow her away from the West until very recently Chen. Then she was attacked. When has she had time? Her sire was protective because her heart had been damaged. He feared for his daughter.” She explained.

“Her heart?” he asked distressed.

“Hai. She is just now well. Look I do not have time for this okay?” she said turning to leave.

“Oh hell no!” he cussed.

Chen moved quickly and pulled her into a strong embrace. Augusta looked at him pleadingly and he purred deeply.

“Augusta! Gods I have been climbing the palace walls! You came in and took Zihao. How could you not explain in person?” he demanded.

“My daughter was lying on a futon barely alive! Your son it seemed abandoned her!” she snapped.

“My son helped to lay waste to Hadasan! My son has been shutting himself off from his family!” he growled.

“My daughter nearly bled to death fighting Lei! She barely survived it and now she intends to go after him again.” Augusta said sighing.

“She can come to Hunan and see her mate! Her husband if you will. She married him in a ceremony Augusta and where the hell is she now?” he snarled.

“Then go to speak to the Lady of Shanghai. Quit admonishing me!” she snapped at him.

“I shall!” He said releasing her and stalking to the palace.

“Chen?” she called out.

“What?” he replied turning.

“I am sorry for how things turned out.” She whispered.

“Do not be. Let us just see it as a good rut and move on. You obviously have.” He said with cold eyes.

She stared at him in a fury and then ported away. His words stung and she ported back to her daughter.

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“Your father in law will be here in just a moment. Vlad and what is your name need to clear out. This is going to be rather intense.” My mother said and I saw her eyes were threatening tears.

“Mother?” I asked softly.

“Just deal with the Byakko okay?” she snapped.

She walked up to Eyal and Sebastein and dragged them away to another room farther away. By her actions I could tell Chen was furious. I had not stopped long enough to see Quon but why should I when he had stopped seeing me. Shusin brought Chen to my study and I stood and bowed. He was angry; very very angry.

“Lord Chen.” I said softly.

“Lord is it? That is what you call your father in law? Why have you not come to Hunan?” he demanded.

“Why has Quon not come to me?” I asked in retort.

“Because he is not leaving his chambers. He loves you deeply and fears you still sleep.” He said in an angry voice.

“I see. Fine let us go to Hunan now. I have seen no one of consequence since I have awoken. I must say it is quite wonderful to be abandoned by one's mates!” I said in a furious tone.

“He is not himself! You will see that. You should have come sooner.” He growled.

“I have only been awake for a little while. My father only just let me tend my lands Chen. I have only been able to port a couple of days.” I said softly.

“A day or two?” he asked shocked.

“Hai. I was not strong enough to port myself. So do me the favor of not judging!” I snapped.

He nodded and I ported us both to Changsha. Our sudden appearance caused a sensation and I went to the private area of the palace. Chen let me go and I came to Quon's chambers. I knocked loudly and received no answer. I knocked again and I heard a heart wrenching scream of “go away”. I opened the door and slipped in. Quon was at his desk and turned to snarl at me. His mouth dropped open and I stood there silently.

“Asuna?” he asked softly.

“Hai. It is I.” I whispered.

He stood and moved closer. He could not seem to believe his eyes. He touched my cheek and I leaned my cheek into his hand. Quon touched my hair and he lifted my chin up. My beautiful tiger prince had been pining away. It seemed wrong and an injustice. Shame filled me and I wrapped my arms around his body. I was shaking lightly and he was repressing his desire. Touch became so very important at the moment. I traced his stripes along his brow and ghosted my fingers over his pointed ear. He closed his eyes in pleasure and he began a rumbling purr. I slowly reached down behind him and gently stroked his tail.

“When?” he asked in a strangled voice.

“A little over a month.” I said softly.

“A month?” he asked suddenly very angry.

“Quon, I was awake but very weak. It took me weeks to walk again and my heart has just now healed.” I said holding his face.

“No one sent word! I have not seen my son in over two months and you have been awake.” He growled in a righteous fury.

“Quon please. My sire was overprotective and I have been allowed little freedom.” I said.

“I have thought there was no hope. I have thought you were as good as dead. If this is how it is then leave and never return!” he said furiously.

“I leave then you never see our son again.” I said coldly.

He jerked from me and was so furious that he could not see straight. Hurt was threatening to consume me and he roared in his fury.

“You will not keep me from my son anymore! You obviously have better things to do then inform your lawful mate and husband of your state. Go to hell Asuna but I will have my son.” He hissed.

“You go to hell! I am the one that nearly died having Zihao. He is mine and I dare you lay a finger against me! You will perish.” I snapped.

“Get out!” he yelled.

“As you wish!” I said bowing.

I left his chambers and I ported to the West. I could not breathe at the moment but I maintained my composure. I walked to the nursery and motioned Zhou and Mariko to me.

“Under no circumstances is anyone but my direct family allowed to touch Prince Zihao. You are not allowed to release him to any tiger or agent thereof. My sire will be made aware and a guard put on this door. Whoever attempts to lay a hand on him and they will die.” I snapped.

They both bowed and muttered, “hai my lady”. I walked away and pain pressed in my chest but I ignored it. I went to my sire's study and he was speaking with Jouichi of all people. I paid my new father in law no mind and bowed.

“Ties with Hunan are broken and I will kill any Byakko that tries to even touch my son!” I snapped.

“Agreed.” My father said.

“I shall be in Shanghai. Baku meets me in Beijing in two days.” I stated then ported away.

I was back in Shanghai and the pain reared its ugly head. I refused to sob and I moved to my chambers. It was less complicated this way. My heart ached for Naraku but he was off in his own grief at the moment. I focused on changing my clothes and I went in search of the uppyr. I found them in my dining hall and they were partaking of sake. My mother had managed to loosen up both uppyr and it was obvious that both males were quite drunk.

“They seem more pleasant.” I said softly.

“Oh much. Baby what is wrong?” she asked suddenly.

“Nothing. I shall be fine. Apparently our ties with the Byakko are over.” I said very softly.

“Hai same here.” She said stiffly.

I shut my eyes and one tear slipped from my eye and I saw Eyal's eyes on me. I opened them and they were burning crimson. My mother watched me and she understood I needed to tear something apart.

“I am going to Hadasan.” I said stiffly.

“Asuna?” Eyal asked me.

“Back off uppyr!” I growled in my beast's voice.

He seemed stunned and I ported away. I was back in Hadasan and I changed form. I intended to find Lei now. I began scenting the ground and I caught several wraith smells. I kept a leisurely pace and continued scenting. I did not really notice that tears were falling from my eyes till they mingled with the sandy earth. I paid them no heed and tracked my prey.

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“What is going on Elizaveta?” Vlad asked.

“Asuna was actually mated and married to a Byakko prince.” She sighed.

“A what?” he asked.

“A silver tiger.” She said looking away.

“Well that is fascinating.” Sebastein stated.

“Shut up! You are here for what I do not know. This is my daughter's palace and I will gleefully mop the floors with you!” Augusta hissed.

“Settle down Russian.” He chuckled.

“You are troubled as well.” Vlad observed.

“Stay out of my head Vlad! My thoughts are my own.” She snapped standing.

“You loved one as well?” he asked.

“It is none of your business! Go to Hadasan and make yourself useful.” She said stiffly again.

Augusta ported away and went to Sapporo of all places. She felt a need to converse with the only other youki besides her mate and Chen she had loved. Savage anger ripped through her at Chen dismissing her. She went into the forests surrounding Hana's capital city. She knew they were there but they could be highly elusive. She pulsed her aura and she heard the swoop of wings. She looked over her shoulder at Tsubasa and he was shocked to see her.

“Hello.” She said softly.

“What are you doing here?” he demanded.

“I do not know. It has been rough lately.” She said looking down.

“I had heard your daughter fell in battle. I am assuming she lived.” He said dispassionately.

“Hai she has. Tsubasa, I owe you an apology. You were right and I was a coward all those years ago.” She said staring at him.

“I have known that for some time Augusta. Why are you here? Surely it is not to assuage some guilt you have.” He said contemptuously.

“I just wanted to say I was sorry Tsubasa, You obviously hate me now but I can be the bigger youki and say this.” She said bowing.

“I do not hate you. That would be saying that I still felt something. I nothing you.” He replied coldly.

“Understood. Know this though, you serve Hana and you serve my blood.” Augusta replied with an equally cold voice.

She turned and walked away from the sparrow hawk. He was so very beautiful and so full of wrath. She was alright with it actually. She walked back toward Sapporo and she felt taloned fingers reach around her arm and thrust her roughly to the ground.

“You are a hateful bitch! You come here now for what?” he demanded in anger.

“I told you I do not know!” she snapped.

“Hai you do.” He snapped.

“You wish the truth?” she asked him brutally.

“See if you manage it!” he snarled.

“My lover dismissed me. He was angry at me.” She said getting up.

“Your inu not enough for you?” he asked in a snide tone.

“He is more than enough. I lost my head to a very gorgeous creature.” She said cruelly.

“Figures. Why tell me this Augusta?” he asked.

“I truly have no idea. I am so angry I cannot think at the moment.” She admitted.

“So who did you nail?” he asked in an amused tone.

“Lord Chen.” She said.

“Oh really? Well you bedded a whoremonger you know. His trysts here were legendary. How many concubines did he have?” he asked.

“Nine besides his chief mate.” She answered.

“Well he drew in the famous Augusta Orlovich. You were bested my dear. I suggest showing the tiger a thing or two. Give him a show with your mate.” He laughed.

“How about I get me revenge a different way.” She replied coolly.

“What are you suggesting.” He asked narrowing his eyes.

“He knows you and I were mated. I want him to think I came back to you.” She said.

“Kamis you are a riot. You are the only one to walk away from a relationship? Well you know what I hold very little like or respect for the tiger. I will get a good laugh.” He said leaning against a tree.

“Thank you. They have managed to figure out why I was unable to carry.” She said softly.

“Augusta stop!” he said in a tortured voice.

“I lost my mind when I lost your son. I had never been pregnant before and I did not know how to handle being with child one moment then not the next.” She stated looking up.

“You got used to feeling that?” he asked her.

“Hai. A little part of me died each time. I managed to give Sesshomaru another son and it was normal for once. I can have a normal pregnancy now.” She said staring straight at him.

“I am glad for the inu. He must be quite thrilled to have five pups. Please stop talking about it okay?” he said in quiet pain.

“I will let you know if you do not mind.” She stated.

“Sure.” He said looking away.

She stepped forward and shocked him to his very feathers. She pulled his mouth down to hers and kissed him very gently. He groaned and began attacking her lips. Augusta surprised herself and fell into the bliss. Tsubasa fought himself and she had gained more passion. He ripped his lips from hers and breathed roughly into her ear.

“Go before I give into my whims.” He said softly.

“You still think about when we met?” she asked him in her passion laden voice.

“Hai. Augusta stop. I was always wanton with you and this is a different time.” He said.

She ran her hands up his back and felt along the joints where his wings met his back. The flesh was tender and very sensitive. She knew his body so well and he suppressed his need.

“Augusta be rational.” He said harshly.

“I am. Shall I show you how my yoki has gotten stronger?” she asked him.

“I have a good idea.” He murmured.

She turned his head and she sank her fangs into his neck. He groaned again very loudly as the familiar pleasure coursed through him. A different sort of pleasure erupted in his mind and his eyes flew open. Her telekinesis was powerful now.

“Augusta Kamis onna! Please stop.” He moaned.

She lifted her lips and smiled up at him. She brushed her finger tips across his stiffened flesh through his hakamas. He looked down at her and moaned.

“Augusta. Now leave now before I give in. You are the Western Lady. Go!” he snapped.

“Alright. Please forgive me.” She whispered.

“Augusta.” He moaned softly.

He wrapped his wings around them and held her close. She shifted her body against his and he bit back another moan.

“Tsubasa?” she asked softly.

“Hai?” he answered.

“Do you still love me?” she asked him.

“Hai.” He said in a tortured tone.

“I still love you as well. I never stopped. I went back but you were gone. My older sister had died.” She said in a dejected tone.

“You went back?” he asked her suddenly very remorseful.

“Hai. You had already gone. I wanted you to forgive me. I wanted you to tell me you did not think I killed our son.” She wept.

“I was a fool. We were both fools.” He stated with his eyes shut at the awful memories.

“It was not all bad between us.” She said very softly.

“No. No there were many good times.” He muttered.

He looked down at her and lifted his hands to the side of her face and began kissing her anew. Things were escalating too quickly and he lost his reason. His tongue delved into her mouth and her response was so sweet. She was so much more passionate and so much more wanton. His lips moved to her ear and he whispered roughly.

“I need you to go.” He muttered.

“You are being honorable.” She murmured.

She stiffened in his embrace and he looked down. Her eyes had narrowed and they were crimson.

“What do you sense that I do not?” he whispered.

“Chen.” She said hoarsely.

“Get behind me.” He said flatly.

“Tsubasa I can defend myself.” She said in irritation.

“Okay I should like to see this. Shall I be up in the tree?” he snapped.

She lowered his lips to hers again and she felt Chen's fury. Tsubasa went with it and began kissing her back. He would rather enjoy pissing off the silver tiger. She released his lips and smirked up at him. He smiled in return and she turned.

“I feel you Chen. Did you enjoy the show?” she asked.

He emerged into the forest and his eyes were red. Tsubasa looked at him amused and the tiger lord growled furiously.

“We have things to discuss kiang shi!” he stated in a horrible growl.

“Not really. The rutting was phenomenal but I have moved on remember? Is this about your son being a brat? Like father like son it seems. You can leave.” She said coldly.

“Get your hands off her you buzzard!” Chen growled.

“Pardon? I am a hawk you idiot.” Tsubasa snapped.

“I said get your hands off of her!” Chen repeated.

“I do not think I like your tone kitty kitty. Lady Augusta is an old friend of mine.” The sparrow hawk said.

“I know who you are hawk. This is between her and me.” Chen snapped.

“Tsubasa I can handle one little tiger. I thank you and I will see you soon. Please forgive me.” She said bowing.

“I do. I forgive you Augusta.” He said taking her hand and kissing her knuckles.

He released her hand and took to the skies. She watched him and turned to Chen with a cold stare.

“What do you want?” she asked.

“What the hell is the meaning of your daughter keeping Zihao from Quon?” he growled.

“I do not know. She came back to Shanghai upset and left again. She was not in a sharing mood.” She said honestly.

“We will go to war over him you realize. I will fight the West for my grandson!” he threatened.

“You do that Chen. You face the end of the Bakusaiga and see if you live! You seriously think Sesshomaru will not back up what Asuna wants? He is the greatest swordsman in all of Asia if not the world. You would lose.” She snapped.

“How can you allow this to happen?” he snapped.

“I allow nothing. It is my mate and his heir's decision.” She shrugged.

“When do you follow anything your mate dictates?” he growled.

“More often then you think. You were a weakness that I promise you that I will not repeat.” She sneered.

“You run to your former mate!” he hissed coming closer.

“I did not run to him. I asked his forgiveness. I delivered him a dead son and it tore us apart. Why do you care? It has nothing to do with you. Besides you made it clear that I was a good fuck for you. I do not have time for your absurd notions.” She said walking past him.

“You act inu you know.” He scoffed at her.

“I am mated to an inu and bore him five pups. Go back to Hunan and do not set foot in the Northern Lands again. There are INU soldiers within calling distance.” She said in scorn.

Chen moved forward and grabbed her roughly. She narrowed her brown eyes at him; it was obvious that jealousy was eating him at the moment.

“You did not like seeing me in Tsubasa's arms? I assure I did it for your benefit. He was eager to piss you off it seems. You must have not been good friends with the hawks.” She purred.

“Shut up!” he growled.

“We were a passing fancy and nothing more. I am ashamed that I was taken in. Go to hell Chen.” She said jerking away.

“I did not mean what I said. I was angry at you and your damn daughter. You kept yourself from me.” He accused.

“We are nothing Chen! You have a duty to the Byakko as I do to the Western Lands. We have been lovers on a limited basis. You would not hesitate to cast me aside if it meant Quon or your other cubs.” She said flatly.

“Nothing? You see us as nothing?” he yelled.

“Be quiet fool!” she hissed

Augusta felt Tsubasa at a distance but she watched as Chen was furious. She had seen him angry but not quite like this. He stalked forward and grabbed her arm in a painful grip. He had somewhat of immunity to her yoki if he chose and he was choosing it now. He produced his shoki cloud and dragged them both through. She struggled against him and he pinned her to a boulder. She looked around and expected Dong Jiang but they were somewhere different.

“We are near Changsha. No I would not cast you aside! I love you more than my true mates! You seem to wish Hunan and the West as enemies. I could really infuriate the West and take its Lady the way they have taken Zihao. What say you Augusta?” he hissed.

“I would say go to hell! You want to die?” she asked him.

“You are fertile you know.” He said.

“I know. Sesshomaru and I have been careful.” She said narrowing her eyes.

“I think I shall keep you. I think I shall send a message to your mate that if he intends to keep Zihao from his family then I shall keep you from yours.” He said angrily.

“Chen stop this!” she snapped.

“Your daughter started it. You decided that we were nothing and so we are.” He hissed.

“Let me go Byakko.” She snapped.

“What are you going to do?” he demanded.

Self preservation kicked in and she latched onto his throat suddenly. He apparently had not anticipated it and she began drinking deeply. He groaned as she could not bring herself to make him feel the pain. She could not bring herself to drain him either and she weakened him. She released him and stepped away.

“I am sorry Chen. I will not be used as a pawn.” She said wiping tears away.

“Good move. I had not thought you would do that.” He murmured.

“Shut up! Kamis damn you! Why can you not see that I did what I had to do?” she demanded.

“Because you are in me and apart of me. I have never felt this way about any nu zi. You win Augusta. Go on and turn us into one of your sordid memories.” He said closing his eyes.

“You will not die. You will need rest for a few days.” She said sadly.

“Whatever. I wish I had never met you!” he snapped.

Tears stung her eyes again and she came over to him.

“I do love you! I love my children as well.” She said in misery.

“Why do you stay kiang shi?” he asked archly.

He struggled to sit up and she assisted him. She felt guilty at her actions and bit into her own wrist. She pressed it to his mouth; she had expected him to refuse but he latched on with incredible intensity. She moaned as he took in her blood and she shook a little.

“Chen! Oh God Chen what are you doing?” she moaned out.

He released her wrist and Guang had been helping him practice his abilities. His psi yoki had been a latent one but he had been determined to strengthen it. He was still angry with her but desire won out. He ripped open her hanfu and released himself as well. He pulled her down on his staff and they both cried out. His mind was hazy as they both moved. He was beyond caring of consequences as he began nipping roughly at her skin and she was shuddering against him already.

“I am laying you back.” He whispered hoarsely.

“Chen no. God what are you doing?” she managed.

“What you do to me.” He stated roughly.

Her mind was ablaze as well as her body. He plunged into her core and she tried to scream as he withdrew but her voice was hoarse. He dipped into her mind and she became almost wild. She had not been engaged in such activities with a telepathic creature in centuries. Augusta gasped and cried out over and over. Chen wanted to draw this out but it had been too long since he had felt her like this. His rational mind was trying to tell him to pull back but he roared as he buried himself deeply as his body shook with his release. Augusta had become undone rather quickly and her breathing was erratic. He gathered her to him and he produced his shoki mist and pulled them in. He took them to a little used palace near Dong Jiang. He had in mind what he wanted and she would never keep herself from him again.

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I was disappointed as I could not find Lei and I ported onto the outskirts of Beijing. I saw Baku and my mark was hot to the touch. He looked up at me and his eyes told the story of his feelings. I nodded to him and went into the commander's tent. He came to me quickly and he wrapped his arms around me tightly.

“You are in turmoil.” He murmured.

“Zihao resides in the West permanently.” I said simply.

“I am sorry.” He said as he began massaging his mark.

My eyes fluttered shut as all manner of wondrous feelings coursed through me.

“My mother marked my sire as such. She could bring him to knees with it.” He purred in my ear.

“How?” I asked.

“I am unsure. I know it takes repeated markings. We surround the city. I have sent Geming to the other side of the city to box them in.” he replied as he continued to stroke the mark.

“Baku.” I rasped out.

“Hai?” he asked.

My body was actually tightening and I felt the telltale flutters in my lower belly. I leaned my head back and he began possessing my mouth. I had become so tense and Baku eased up his torture and ghosted his fingers over the mark. I felt a tremendous pressure almost explode in my center and Baku had to hold me up. I was mewling into the kiss and I heard him growl softly.

“This is all very well but we are fixing to crush a city!” I heard from the doorway of my tent.

“Leave!” Baku snarled.

“No. Lady Asuna may I speak with you?” Geming asked roughly.

I nodded and Baku was simmering. He released me and he went over to Geming and raised his fist.

“Baku please.” I said softly.

“Hai my love! You respect my rights as her mate you piece of crap. Touch her and you die.” Baku snarled in a low voice.

“Well now this interesting. Slumming again my lady?” Geming hissed.

Baku lost his temper and hit Geming in the jaw. I pulled him back and he was a snarling mess.

“Baku! He is being an ass on purpose. Calm yourself.” I whispered in his ear.

“I will kill you!” he snarled at Geming.

“Right. You have been dismissed General Baku.” He said smirking cruelly.

Baku stalked by him and his body language spoke volumes. I sighed as I watched him leave.

“Was that entirely necessary Geming?” I demanded.

“Yes it was! You gave yourself to him?” Geming asked in a fury.

“What happened should not have Geming. I have fallen in love with Baku.” I said raising my chin.

“You are a mainland ruler my lady. It is custom here to have as many mates as you wish.” He pointed out.

“I know this Geming. Now I have no wish to discuss this further. You have wished to crush Beijing then let us crush them.” I snapped.

“Absolutely. I apparently did not make enough of an impression on you. I shall have to try harder.” He said bowing.

“You did leave an impression. Now drop it.” I commanded.

He smirked at me and left. I growled in frustration as I went and put my armor on. I looked forward to battle and killing many Ming.

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I was walking through the Forbidden City as clouds of arced smoke rose in columns around Beijing itself. There was no escape for the Emperor and his family but I was not so heartless as to murder the whole lot of them. Several of my soldiers followed behind me and I went to the private throne room of the Wanli Emperor. He looked up at me in terror.

“You have been defeated ningen. You will never raise another hand against Manchuria and anyone else again. You shall live but your people will know that you pay fealty to the Manchu. You will bow before my son as your saving grace.” I stated.

“As you say.” He said looking down.

I smirked and looked around.

“Clear everyone out and burn the outer buildings to the ground.” I commanded as I turned on my heel.

“You are a monster!” Wanli shouted.

“No more than you for allying yourself with the likes of the wraiths. Goodbye ningen as I know I will never see you again.” I said from the doorway.

I heard shouts of triumph as many parts of the city were laid to waste. I walked to the highest point of the city and overlooked the destruction. Geming stood behind me and I turned.

“I am honored to call me my lady.” He said.

“Taiwan will be taken back. It shall be yours if you wish.” I said raising a brow.

“I have extended relatives that can rule.” He stated bowing.

“I am honored you wish to stay in your capacity.” I said inclining my head.

“What are you planning to do now my lady?” he asked.

“Find Lei and kill him.” I said softly.

“You have my blade.” He said bowing.

“Thank you. Plunder the city.” I said as I walked away.

This victory was bittersweet but it was done finally. My final thing I had to do was destroy the Steppe Wraiths and I felt that maybe I could move on. This whole sordid business had cost me much and I would grieve for the rest of my life. I ported back to the West and went to our family shrine. I sat by Yuudai's tomb and sighed.

“You are avenged completely karuson. I hope and pray that your soul is at rest and know I will always attend you here. I almost did not finish what needed doing but you can rest well.” I stated softly.

I felt a presence and looked up and saw Yuuta. I smiled at him and him at me.

“Beijing has fallen.” I said looking up at the nobleman.

“He would be thrilled. Thank you for getting justice for my son.” He said sitting by me.

“It was my duty.” I said lowering my head.

“I wish I had been better to you my lady. I should have trusted your father to know what was best for his lands.” He said lifting my chin.

“I was a pain in your backside Sir Yuuta. I wrecked your castle more often than not.” I chuckled.

“You were expensive to clean up after.” He laughed as well.

He kissed my forehead and I sighed. He pulled me up and gave me a tremendous hug,

“I wish you happiness my dear. You have given me peace.” He said again kissing my forehead.

He pulled away and left me to my musings. I laid my head against the side of the tomb and closed my eyes. I was overwhelmed and laid down. I pressed a hand to my belly and prayed I had a girl. I wanted a daughter so badly I could taste it. I laid there for awhile when I sat up when I saw my sire.

“Father?” I asked.

“I cannot find your mother. No one has seen her.” He said worried.

“Surely she is just hunting.” I said standing.

“Asuna, she is not here!” he snapped.

“I will find her.” I said coming over to him.

“When you and the tiger fought what exactly happened?” he asked.

“He was angry that he was not notified of my wakening. He asked me to never return.” I said looking down.

“Are the Byakko capable of revenge such as kidnapping?” he asked me.

“Hai.” I said clenching my jaw.

My mind was working a mile a minute and I figured Chen had her.

“Damnit!” I cursed.

“Tell me where we need to be and I will be there.” He said in a growl.

“I will be back.” I said porting away.

I was in Changsha and I had masked my presence. Chen was an honorable person but he was also highly emotionally charged. He loved my mother violently and I could see him taking her. I moved with stealth and kept a hand on my Kumosaiga. I listened carefully to different conversations and Chen was not here at the moment. I turned around and there was Quon. He looked beyond furious and I pulled my fang.

“How dare you come here.” he hissed.

“My mother is missing. I will go where I dare.” I said calmly.

“What makes you think she is in Hunan?” he asked with repressed fury.

“Come now Quon we both know our parents are having a liaison. I just need to confirm she is okay and I will trouble you no further.” I stated.

“What makes you think my Ba would want her still?” he asked sneering.

“You are not your father. Look be angry with me or my whole family but this is not about us alright?” I stated.

“Leave or I will fight you.” Quon snarled at me.

“You will have to fight me.” I said flatly.

He pulled his own fang and pain washed through me. I could not believe it had come to this. I had always thought he could turn on me. He moved swiftly and I had to jump quickly. Our fangs clashed time after time. He was physically stronger then I but I was more agile. He was more than angry and I saw hatred flit across his features. Anguish consumed me but I continued to fight. He managed to grab a hold on me and he released his shoki. I screamed in pain and staggered back.

“Die for real this time.” He hissed.

“I know you not. How can you be this angry with me?” I asked suppressing the cold.

“You keep me from my son. How am I supposed to feel? I am supposed to love you after you keep the one person I love more than anything?” he yelled.

“You forget he is my son as well.” I screamed back.

“He looks Byakko thankfully. I want my son. I told you before that you would never keep me from my cub. I will kill you to get to him.” He roared.

“Zihao is mine! You will not take my son from me.” I said breathing hard.

“What does one matter? You have more sons.” He replied in heavy sarcasm.

I backed away from him and looked down at my shoulder. He had released a huge amount of his shoki and it hurt badly.

“He is not your son. He is nothing to you as I am not. If you persist in being an ass I will remove him so far away you will never find him!” I screamed at him.

He moved on me and hit me with the hilt of his fang. Quon hated me now and I ported away. I staggered into the nursery and pulled Zihao to me. I ported away again and found Tamiko's dwelling in the North. She came out and she looked surprised.

“Asuna by the Kamis what has happened?” she asked.

“Quon and I are at odds. I need to hide Zihao. I have never seen that much hatred come off of him.” I said lowering my head.

Zihao snuggled closer to me and began purring loudly to try and calm me.

“Touga will shelter him.” She said softly.

“Hai. I will not give up my son! I will not let them take him!” I said starting to cry.

“Your brother will shelter your son.” She said as she began mixing and pouring.

She dipped an amulet into the mixture.

“Yasu lives in Touga's time. Have him fix that damage.” She said softly.

“Hai.” I whispered.

“I almost forgot. Drink this. That will camouflage your markings.” She said softly.

“Thank you.” I said downing the potion.

She threw down the amulet and I slipped through.

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Zihao continued to purr and I moved slowly. I knew I had a fever but the Western Palace came into view. I masked Zihao's scent and I made it to a side gate of the palace complex. There was a gray inu and he looked stunned to see me.

“Lord Touga pleases. Tell him Asuna is here.” I said bowing my head.

“Come.” He replied.

“Keep your eyes ahead soldier. This pup does not concern you.” I said sternly.

“Hai.” He said surprised.

My vision was getting cloudy and I finally sank to my knees. Zihao started crying a little.

“Haha?” he asked softly.

“Get Touga please. Tell him Sorami needs him.” I said closing my eyes.

“Hai my lady!” the soldier said taking off into a run.

“Haha.” Zihao began pulling on my hanfu.

“Shhh baby boy. Haha will be well.” I said softly.

I heard footfall and looked up to see Touga. He looked surprised and concerned.

“What has happened? Who is this?” He asked scooping me up.

“Zihao. This is Zihao. I fought a Byakko.” I said shutting my eyes.

“You need to explain much sister and you need to get better. Soldier get Yasu!” Touga commanded.

“Where is my sire?” I asked.

“He is off in Kyoto. He is handling the import and export taxing right now.” He explained.

“How old is he?” I said softly.

“He is sixty seven. Your markings are gone, if he sees you it will not matter.” He said quietly.

I was brought into the palace and brought into Touga's chambers. I recognized them as my father's in the future. I saw Yasu come in and he looked as grumpy as ever. He looked me over and Zihao looked frightened. He clung to me and I held him.

“Why is there a Byakko cub in your chambers my lord?” Yasu asked surprised.

“Shut up! He is my son and if you value your life you will not disrespect him again!” I snarled.

Yasu's eyes opened wider and Touga looked amused.

“Who did this to you?” my past brother asked.

“My estranged mate. It is a long story Touga and I am very tired. I need you to keep Zihao hidden for me. I will not let Quon take him from me.” I said closing my eyes.

“Will he come to me?” he asked.

“Zihao. This is your great jii-chan.” I said softly.

His little eyes widened and he began looking for my sire. I chuckled and I held him up to see if he would go to Touga and he reached for him. I smiled and Zihao stared into eyes that mirrored his own.

“He has my eyes!” he exclaimed surprised.

“Hai. My sire gave him the name of Masaru as well.” I replied.

“I need to make an antidote to this poison. I need an adult Byakko shoki.” Yasu stated.

“Sapporo. The Byakko took over the area around Sapporo. The sparrow hawks are still loyal to Tekeshi. Get the sparrow hawks to assist you.” I said tired.

“How do you know all this?” Yasu asked stunned.

“I am Sorami reborn old man. I know quite a bit.” I stated.

Touga chuckled and Yasu seemed stunned.

“Well you know you are pregnant.” Yasu grumbled.

“Pregnant?” Touga asked surprised.

“Hai. Hopefully another girl and it is inu.” I said.

“Well I need to get you well pretty quickly or this little one will not make it.” Yasu said bluntly.

“Tamiko can watch Zihao.” Touga thought aloud.

“He knows her.” I nodded.

“Can you move around enough to go to the North?” Touga asked.

“Hai.” I responded.

I was helped up and I was shivering. Zihao knew something was wrong and he clung to me. I held him close and murmured to him in Min. He calmed and both inu males looked at each other. Touga led me through the tunnel to his hunting lodge and I saw Tamiko. She did not seem surprised and Zihao looked happy to see a familiar face.

“War is brewing.” She said softly.

“Between Hunan and the West?” I asked stunned.

“Hai. Your mother as well.” She whispered.

“What?” I asked stunned.

“Hai. The Byakko Lord has taken her as a mate.” She said.

My mouth dropped open and Touga came over. I was shaking and could not believe what she was telling me.

“Did she leave willingly?” I asked Tamiko.

“No. This Byakko has some pull over her that I do not understand.” She said.

“He is telepathic. Son of a whore he binded himself to her!” I said.

“What is wrong?” Touga asked.

“Chen has taken my mother.” I said in disbelief.

“What do you mean taken?” he asked.

“I mean that my sire is going to go into a murderous rage! Touga, my father loves my mother deeply.” I said standing.

“This is not good.” He said.

“Hai this is not good. I have not even defeated Jing yet! Damnit! Zihao, haha has to go for a little while. I love you!” I said kissing his head.

He nodded to me and his mind brushed mine. I kissed his chubby little hand and withdrew. I fought back tears and followed my past brother and I took his hand.

“Porting will be quicker.” I said.

He nodded and I ported us to near Sapporo. I masked us and I knew I was growing weak. He helped me and I scented Byakko all over the place.

“Have you ever seen a Byakko before?” I asked.

“No. You are very widely traveled my dear.” He smiled.

“We are not immune to their shoki. Be careful.” I said.

“Hai!” he said moving forward.

I leaned against a tree and a fevered sleep took me.

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Touga moved quickly and he scented tigers close by. He could not believe that Tekeshi's lands were infested with the felines. He moved silently and he saw a palace in the distance. He knew his sister could handle herself but he still worried. He saw a richly dressed tiger and he wore a royal top knot. It seemed appropriate that a royal tiger should be the antidote to the shoki. He watched the powerful male move away and he moved with preternatural speed and pounced on the tiger. He was thrown and the tiger began growling in fury.

“What the hell!” the tiger yelled.

“Sorry just an inu. I have need of you tiger and you will assist me.” Touga said arrogantly.

“Who the hell are you?” the silver tiger demanded.

“I am the Inu no Tiasho. Who are you?” Touga demanded.

“Deming Hu. You have no rights here anymore inu. Move on and I will spare you.” Deming stated.

Touga snorted and drew the Tetsaiga. The tiger moved quickly but the Taisho whirled on him and pointed his powerful fang to his throat.

“One of your kind infected my sister. You will come and provide her with your shoki for an antidote or you will die.” He growled.

“How would one of my tigers come in contact with an inu bitch?” Deming asked in confusion.

“Now ask questions later.” Touga snapped.

Deming was more than curious and he allowed the inu to bring him to a female inu of incomparable beauty. He could smell the shoki coming from her and he was shocked.

“My healer can fix this. Please bring her into the city.” Deming stated.

“Why should I trust you?” Touga hissed.

“It is her only chance.” He hissed back.

Touga picked her up and carried her. He followed the tiger and he led them into the spherical palace. He was lead into a grand room with chaises all over the place. He laid her down on one and Deming came back with an old tiger in tow. The healer immediately began working and Deming released his misty shoki into a pestle.

“Does she have a toxin?” Deming asked.

“Hai.” Touga said.

Guang worked her wrist and brought forth her Dakkasou. He mixed it with the shoki. He mixed other herbs into the foul smelling brew. Touga lifted her up a little and the ancient tiger poured the brew down her throat. She choked on it but managed not to gag.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I scented Touga and I also scented Byakko everywhere. I came awake and looked up. I saw Touga's face and I rolled my head. I saw a male tiger that resembled Quon and Chen heavily. I began growling fiercely.

“Let me up!” I hissed to Touga.

“Sister calm yourself.” He said softly.

“Touga! Let me up! Where is my son?” I hissed.

“With Tamiko. He is fine.” He said taking my shoulders.

“Inu why were you attacked by a Byakko?” the older tiger asked,

“It matters not. I was in Changsha and came upon a rather aggressive male.” I said flatly.

“What were you doing in Hunan?” the Byakko asked narrowing his eyes.

“Trying to find a relative. Look thank you for healing me. Thank you Guang.” I said standing.

“You were not told his name.” the tiger lord stated.

“Back off Byakko!” I snarled.

“What the hell is going on?” he asked in anger.

“None of your damn business!” I said resting my hand on my fang.

“You allow your females such liberties Taisho?” he asked.

“Wrong female to say that to.” Touga chuckled.

I pulled my fang and pressed it to his throat. He looked at me furiously and I stepped back. I grabbed Touga's hand and ported us to the Western Palace. He seemed a little discomfited but I was pacing. I saw my sire coming and I ducked behind a pillar.

“Father?” Sesshomaru asked looking around.

“Hai son?” Touga answered.

“I was curious as to who the bitch was.” He stated.

“You can come out.” Touga sighed.

I slipped out and bowed before my sire. He scented me and knew me to be a relative. He looked confused and stared openly at me.

“Lord Sesshomaru.” I said softly.

“Who are you?” he asked me intrigued.

“I am a distant relation. My name is Zoya.” I said.

“Hn.” He muttered.

“Everything is well in Kyoto?” Touga asked him.

“Hai my lord.” He stated in his bored tone.

“Good. Thank you son. You may do as you wish.” Touga said dismissing him.

He bowed and he went to leave. He looked over his shoulder at me in complete curiosity. I bowed to him and he went on about his business.

“You intrigue him beyond measure. He is normally not so friendly.” Touga sighed.

“He is a great father.” I said looking down.

“You two have a special connection.” He replied.

“Hai. I want you to come back with me. I could use your help. I cannot let my father go to war with Chen.” I said flatly.

“How would I explain my presence?” he demanded.

“You would not. You would stay on the continent. I have palaces from Manchuria to Hong Kong.” I shrugged.

“I suppose I can.” He nodded.

“You need to leave your fangs here. Tetsaiga belongs to my uncle and Tensaiga my sire.” I commented.

“Where is Sounga?” he asked.

“Do not ask.” I sighed.

He took off his fangs and set them in a secret compartment inside his study. He nodded and we left the palace and went to Tamiko. I kissed my son and explained I would see him soon. He clung to me for a moment and went back to Tamiko. The tengu kissed my grandsire softly and he smiled down at her. It seemed strange but I turned my head. She broke an amulet and I grabbed Touga's hand. I pulled him through and we were near Edo. I understood immediately what Tamiko had done. I masked our presence and I pulled him along. We were close to my uncle's house and I could sense him close by.

“Come jump up into the tree.” I said softly.

“Where are we?” he asked confused.

“Edo. Tamiko wishes for you to see your son.” I explained.

“Akemi's father?” he asked.

“Hai.” I nodded.

We jumped up into the God Tree and my uncle came running by. He stopped and scented the air. He knew I must have been there. Touga's eyes widened and I knew he wished to converse with the hanyou. I put my finger to my lips and I jumped down.

“Oi wench! What the hell you up to?” Inuyasha demanded.

“Mother has been taken. I was sort of hoping you could distract father for me. There will be an all out war if I cannot get her back.” I explained.

“Who would take her?” he asked stunned.

“The Byakko.” I said looking away.

“What the fuck? I thought you and the heir over there were married or something.” He said.

“No Uncle Yasha not anymore. Father dissolved all my unions. My personal life is a mess.” I said through clenched teeth.

“Who knocked ya up?” he asked.

“Baku. He has mated me.” I stated.

“Good kid. You did good there Suna.” He said pulling me into a hug.

“I love him. Can you distract father?” I asked.

“Yeah. We have been havin some issues with the tsuchigumo.” He said.

“Ishin?” I asked suddenly.

“These ain't like the black kumo. These guys are completely different.” He explained.

“Get a letter to Lord Ishin in Sendai. He is the Lord of the Funnel Web and Widow tsuchigumo. If there are different kumo here then he needs to know. Tell him I am on the continent.” I said.

“Sure thing. Get your mom back.” He said hugging me.

“Bye Uncle Yasha.” I said bowing.

He took off and Touga dropped down. His eyes were moist and I could tell he was proud.

“He is rough around the edges but he is a good man. He loves my Aunt Kagome very much.” I explained.

“I wish I knew him.” He said looking down.

“I know. He wishes the same thing. He looks just like you.” I smiled.

“I loved his mother?” he asked.

“Hai. She was a different sort of ningen. Come.” I said taking his hand.

I ported us to Shanghai and he moved away as if he would be sick.

“It takes some getting used to brother.” I said.

“Hai.” He said standing straighter.

I felt Baku and Juuna coming my way and I cursed under my breath. Baku walked in and his eyes widened to utter disbelief. Juuna came in as well and she fell to her knee.

“Asuna?” Baku asked me.

“Hai?” I asked amused.

“Is that?” he asked.

“Hai.” I nodded.

Baku went to his knee as well and Touga looked amused as well. He was openly staring at Juuna.

“I cannot believe that the Taisho is here!” Juuna said looking up.

“Hai. Lord Touga this is Lady Juuna and her brother General Baku and my mate.” I said in introduction.

“Hello.” Touga bowed.

“Asuna why is the Taisho here?” Baku asked me.

“Because we have big problems. I need his help as well as yours to retrieve my mother from Hunan. Father cannot find out or he will lead a war himself.” I said.

“The damn tigers have Lady Augusta?” Baku said furiously.

“Hai. I have hidden Zihao away for now. We need to move fast.” I said.

“What about Prince Quon?” Baku asked.

“He hates me Baku. Can we discuss that later and in private?” I asked him.

“Hai.” He nodded.

Juuna stood up and boldly looked at the Taisho. He was an exceedly handsome male and Juuna seemed captivated.

“Shall I show you the grounds my lord?” Juuna asked.

“Hai.” Touga said mesmerized.

I watched the Taisho leave with Juuna. I proceeded to change clothing. Baku watched me and knew I was in turmoil.

“I cannot think on it Baku. I need to get my mother out. You have to keep this from my father!” I said staring at him.

“You wish me to lie to my lord?” he asked bluntly.

“Shades of gray Baku. I know my sire and I know his temper. I do not wish an all out war with the Byakko. They can be deadly. Quon is angry with me and Chen is in love with my mother.” I stated pulling on a new haori and hakamas.

“What?” Baku said surprised.

“I need to know that you stand by me, your mate. I need you to keep my secrets Baku.” I said bluntly.

“I can do that.” He nodded slowly.

“Alright. I think I know where Chen may have my mother. I know he would not have hurt her.” I commented.

“Where do you think they are?” he asked.

“I know not the name but I have seen it in images. You may find out a great deal of things Baku that may war with your inu senses but you must remember that I am not full inu and my mother is full uppyr.” I said softly as I slipped my fang into my obi.

“I know who and what you are. I know you are mine and it is my duty and pleasure to be at your side no matter what.” He said pulling me into his arms.

“Thank you.” I said looking up.

“Come. The faster we get your mother the better.” He said bluntly.

“Hai. Try not to say too much in front of Touga. He knows much but not everything.” I said walking out of my chambers.

“I shall try. You hid Zihao in the past?” Baku asked.

“Hai. Quon will never reach him.” I said stiffly.

“What happened?” he asked me gently.

“He was furious that he was not told that I had awoken. He felt betrayed. I informed him that if I was never to return to Hunan then neither was Zihao. He got rather violently angry at that.” I stated stiffly.

“I am sorry. I know you loved him.” Baku said putting a hand on my shoulder.

“It truly matters not anymore.” I muttered.

He just kept his hand on my shoulder and we found Juuna and Touga on the grounds. My grandsire-brother seemed enthralled with the golden inu. Baku looked concerned but kept his counsel.

“Alright the plan is to get in and get out.” I stated.

“I can port Lady Asuna.” Juuna said.

“Good. Juuna open your mind for a moment.” I commanded.

I put the image that I had seen in my mother's memories in her mind. She nodded and grabbed Touga's hand. I needed to keep an eye on her or she would seduce him. I took Baku's hand and we ported as well.

The area was incredibly beautiful and I could see the attraction. I closed my eyes and I sensed my mother. I was going to smack Chen around.

“There is a dwelling not far from here. She is there. There are many Byakko soldiers too. There shoki is highly dangerous so do not get shocked with it.” I commanded.

They all nodded and I ported with Baku. Juuna appeared with Touga moments behind me. I moved with purpose and choked down my emotions. I was feeling dread again and I pushed Baku out of the way. Lei crashed into me and I was thrown backwards. He was choking me and I grabbed at him with my claws. I saw Baku try and drag him off but Lei managed to pull us into his mist and disappear.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

“What the hell was that?” Touga growled.

“Lei Jing. Son of a whore!” Baku hissed.

“Okay Baku we have to get Lady Augusta then we have to find Asuna. Lord Touga this way.” Juuna said drawing her katana.

Touga nodded but dread filled him. The three inu moved quickly and they moved silently through the palace. Juuna took his hand and they ported suddenly. They appeared in a room and Augusta sat up. Her eyes widened when she saw the Inu no Taisho.

“Touga?” she asked surprised.

“Come along now. Your daughter has been taken.” He said.

“Lei?” she said coming forward.

Juuna noticed gauntlets on the Western Lady's wrists and she growled. Augusta looked sheepish and ashamed.

“Where is the Byakko my lady?” Juuna asked softly.

“I am right here.” Chen said from behind them.

Touga whirled and narrowed his eyes at the Byakko Lord. Chen looked him over and then at Augusta. She glared at him in anger and he suppressed his anger.

“Who the hell are you?” Chen asked furiously.

“It matters not who I am tiger but what is fixing to happen cur.” Touga growled.

Juuna handed him her katana and Chen pulled his own fang. Augusta was shivering in anger and fear.

“My lord no. Please I beg you. Just get me out of here and take me to Sesshomaru.” She said standing between them.

“Augusta move away!” Chen commanded.

“NO!” she hissed at the Byakko lord.

“Move now!” Touga snapped.

“This is not your fight! Chen you cannot keep me here! Sesshomaru can and will fight you. Let me go.” She said flatly.

“Who is this inu?” Chen asked in a dangerous voice.

“A family member. Chen I have to go.” She begged.

“This is not over Augusta. There is much that needs to be said.” Chen said coming forward.

He released her from the gauntlets and growled. She jerked her hands back and Touga pushed her back.

“If you do not back off neko then you will find yourself at the ends of my claws!” he threatened.

Chen turned on him and went to strike but Touga grabbed his hand and squeezed tightly. Chen growled in pain and he was brought to his knees.

“Who the hell are you?” Chen choked out.

“The Inu no Taisho and Sesshomaru's sire. Keep your hands off of his mate!” Touga growled fiercely.

“Touga stop!” Augusta yelled.

“Step back now Augusta!” he snarled.

She actually obeyed and Touga released the Byakko lord. Chen looked in utter shock and Touga grabbed Augusta along. Juuna watched carefully and ported the three of them to the outskirts of the small palace. Baku followed soon after and he was covered in blood.

“General?” Augusta asked.

“A little sport is all. No worries my lady I only maimed them. Asuna has been taken by Lei.” He said in a worried tone.

“We have to find her. Damnit! What are you doing here Touga?” she asked him.

“Asuna asked for my help and recovering you and hiding her son.” He said archly.

“Kamis this is a mess! Where the hell is Naraku!” she lamented.

“Lady Augusta you must return to Lord Sesshomaru.” Baku said softly.

“I need to bathe. Touga's scent is all over me as well as Chen. Touga find my daughter. Baku you come with me and inform Sesshomaru of what is going on.” She said bluntly.

“I want to see my son.” Touga said.

“You are supposed to be dead!” she hissed.

“I want to see my son.” Touga repeated.

“You need to find your sister! Damn it now!” Augusta snapped.

“General Baku you are mated to her are you not? Follow your mark. Lady Augusta I will see my son.” Touga commanded.

“If he hits you do not blame me.” She snapped.

Baku took Juuna and they ported away. Augusta ported Touga and herself to a large hot spring not far from the Western Palace. She jumped in and proceeded to clean herself. Sesshomaru would be furious after he had a heart attack. She climbed out of the hot spring with sodden silks. She looked at Touga and he took off of his haori. She went behind a tree and changed.

“Why did you say Sesshomaru would hit me?” he asked.

“Because he has issues with you. More so with Natsumi but with you too.” She explained as she stepped out.

“What is that hag up to?” he asked wrinkling his nose.

“She is dead.” Augusta said looking away.

“How?” he asked shocked.

“Sesshomaru had her beheaded for treason.” Augusta said candidly.

“Well well well. I could not do it but I am glad he does. I love my son.” He said fiercely.

“I believe Natsumi drove a wedge between you two on purpose. This way.” She said sighing.

Touga followed Augusta through the tunnel and she led them to her chambers. She slipped into the hall and went into her rooms.

“Wait in the antechamber. I shall be right out.” She said.

She quickly changed into a light blue hanfu and came back out and handed the Taisho his haori. Her mate must be out and about.

“I want you to stay here Touga. I need to find your son.” She said moving through the door.

“Where would he be?” he asked.

“What did Asuna say or do when she brought you here?” Augusta asked.

“She showed me Inuyasha.” He said softly.

“I see. She wanted Sesshomaru diverted. Okay we go to Edo.” She said taking his arm.

She ported them to Inuyasha's Forest and she felt her mate's aura nearby. He would feel her and come. She did not have to wait long when she saw his sphere of light form come into view. He transformed and his amber eyes narrowed to mere slits.

“Hello son.”