InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Flashbacks ( Chapter 67 )

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

Thanks for the reviews! It is inspiration for my depraved brain! Thanks for reading and let me know what you think!

 

Flashbacks

 

Ishin was refusing to end our relationship and that comforted me. I was trying to get to my pups but Naraku was crafty and hiding them well. Fury was overwhelming me and I intended to hurt him very badly. I wanted my fang back as well. My old fang could not handle the amount of yoki I could channel. Ishin had done as Naraku had wished and undid the soul bond. I was abed for several days after it as I begged Eyal to kill me. His eyes had hardened and the look of anger was frightening. I felt so incredibly torn asunder and ripped open that I had a hard time even being up and moving. I moved between Vietnam and Buda for the time being. I will still despondent and withdrawing further and further from Asia. Naraku and Ishin were not at odds but they were not exactly speaking either. I entered my one hundred thirteenth year in misery. I had been on a difficult path partly of my own making. I knew Eyal was worried terribly but I did not say too much.

“You seem to be feeding less.” He remarked coming up behind me.

“Hai. The hunger is not as awful as it was a couple of months ago.” I said softly as I stared out the window.

“This is breaking my heart.” He said holding my shoulders.

“I need my pups. I want my daughter and sons back!” I said hugging myself.

“Honestly where would you start?” he asked.

“He is a master of subterfuge. During the last century he was renowned for creating elaborate obstacles and hiding where no one could find him. He would not go to Mount Hakurei-zan or the old castles. No he would hide them somewhere I would not even contemplate.” I said with a clenched jaw.

“Then you need to look for them. This depression is no good for our babe. I will not go because frankly I would kill him at this point. Your mother wants you home and I think you should go.” He said kissing my forehead.

“I shall return to the Western Palace and go from there. Leave the connection open.” I said ghosting my lips over his.

He hugged me tightly then pulled back. I ported away and ended up in the West. I went to my sire's study and knocked on the door. He called and I came in. He stood up quickly and he could see I was healthy. He looked at my belly. My abdomen was swollen a little with my last pup. I had no intentions of having anymore at anytime.

“You are well I see.” He said.

“I am home if you will have me. I wish to take up my mantle if you will allow it.” I said bluntly.

“It was never announced that you abdicated. I did not allow it. Thank the Kamis you have come to your senses. Are you ready to look for the mongrel?” he demanded.

“I am. I will have my pups. Ishin was able to dissolve Naraku and I's soul bond. I feel no loyalty at all to him and frankly I am done caring.” I shrugged.

“Thank the Kamis!” he espoused.

I held in my desire to start sobbing and I bowed low. I went next door and my mother held me close. I was glad to be home but I could not stay at the moment. Anguish threatened to consume me. I nodded to my mother and I pulled away. I went to the north and found Tamiko's home. I knocked on the door and she appeared. She looked sad and allowed me to enter. I sat down with my back ramrod straight.

“He is not on this island.” I said bluntly.

“I do not think he is in this era. There are other Kamis that may have helped him. I will tear them apart when I found out who did. Now he is well hidden and my magics are being somewhat blocked. They are actually on Honshu but they are far back.” She said softly.

“He has my fang.” I said sighing.

“You do not need it. Your yoki is more powerful now Asuna. You can fell your enemy with your mind. Frankly I would be terrified of you.” She said honestly.

“Well I am still working on it. Can you send me back?” I asked.

“Hai. Keep information on a need to know basis only. Take this to cover your markings. I suggest you follow in the paths of the old kingdoms.” She said cryptically.

“Hai.” I nodded.

She threw the amulet and I saw the wave in the air. I slowly entered the portal and I was taken back to Ancient Honshu again.

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I was in the West and I was actually cornered by several inu soldiers.

“Who are you!” one demanded.

“None of your damn business!” I snarled.

One had the audacity to slap me hard and I jumped up and began growling terribly.

“Lift another hand to me and I will strike you dead!” I growled low in my throat.

“It is a feral bitch! Where is her mate?” one asked the other.

Anger consumed me and I turned on the soldiers. I threw Dakkasou at them and they had to duck. I rolled and grabbed the throat of a silver.

“Move and I will kill you.” I snarled.

He breathed in and looked up at me with gray eyes. I jumped back and realized that this particular inu was a distant relative of Yuudai. I was shaken but drew my old fang.

“Who is causing this entire ruckus Yuuma?” I heard.

A rather muscular silver inu stepped forward and I recognized Lord Akinori. He was a handsome creature and raised my head defiantly.

“You look like Sorami!” he exclaimed.

“I am Asuna. Call of your soldiers. I have no wish to kill sons of the West but I will.” I hissed.

“Why is a pregnant bitch carrying a katana?” he asked confused.

“Find out.” I snapped.

Lord Akinori seemed to be of the firm opinion that bitches were for pleasure and pups. I narrowed my amber-brown eyes and waited.

“Yuuma do not hurt her but subdue her.” He commanded.

I grew sick of the arrogance of my great grandsire. I brought him to his knees with my mind and he clawed at his throat.

“You will not be subduing me now or any time my lord. Now be a good boy and go play.” I said releasing him from my telekinetic hold.

He stared at me in horror and something more. I walked away from the inu and I heard growling.

“You are a silver bitch!” Akinori snapped.

“Hai and?” I said turning.

“You should be in a residence awaiting the birth of your pup!” he growled.

“You have no idea who I am! I am not your daughter who you entomb jealously. Lord over her Akinori and not me! My pups are missing and I will have them!” I said in a fury.

“Yours pups are missing?” he asked calming down.

“Hai. Their chichi and I do not see eye to eye anymore and he took them. Now you either give me information or get the fuck out of my way!” I said with a nasty look on my face.

“You are not full inu.” He said in understanding.

“No I am not. You speak to a fellow lord. Now I need to know of the whereabouts of Lord Gaku Jouichi.” I said flatly

“The Tsuchigumo Lord?” he asked stunned.

“Hai. I know of their lands in the South. Do they have more land anywhere else?” I demanded.

“They have nests in the extreme north.” He replied.

“North of Sapporo and Sendai?” I asked.

“Hai on Kunashiri-tu.” He said.

I considered what he said and a smile spread on my face.

“Thank you! You have been useful.” I said bowing.

“Who sired you?” he asked.

“The Killing Perfection. My chichi is the best swordsman there is. Good day.” I said porting away.

I appeared in the north and I moved with stealth. Naraku would not out live amongst the kumo but their auras were similar to his own. My thoughts drifted briefly to Yuuma and I intended to find out if he was a grandsire or great grandsire of Yuudai. Yuuta was still fairly young himself at a little over four centuries. I scented the air and I of course scented nothing. I needed to find rumors of a castle and one that disappeared. I searched all day and finally settled down at the base of a tree. I knew I was being watched but I kept myself neutral.

“I am only here to retrieve what is mine. I am not trespassing on purpose.” I said aloud.

“Then why are here?” a kumo said from the tree line.

I looked over and it was Lord Jouichi. He startled when he saw me. I raised a brow and he stared at me.

“I have seen you before.” He remarked.

“Hai in your lands in the south. I inadvertently slept in your tree.” I said lightly.

“It was rather odd watching you sleep. What are you doing up here?” he demanded.

“I am looking for my twin sons and daughter. Their sire and I are no longer mated.” I said looking directly at him.

“He leaves you pregnant?” he asked angry.

“Hai. I am sorry to disturb you.” I said inclining my head.

“How many kumo babes have you born?” he asked.

“Three. Two females and one male.” I said looking off.

“Twin sons?” he asked confused.

“I rule and I have had more than one mate. Ken'ichi and Nori were born at the same time but have different sires.” I explained.

“I see. I shall help you find this bastard.” He said in angry tone.

“Thank you Lord Jouichi but this is a personal matter and you are a busy ruler yourself.” I said looking up.

“You refuse to tell me what kumo sired your babes but it is a kumo. It is not typical funnel behavior what your ex-mate is doing.” He said in anger.

“He is only part Tsuchigumo. Wait! Do you feel that?” I asked in a whisper.

“A barrier.” He said softly.

“Got him! Bastard.” I hissed softly.

He must have left his barrier and it was exposed for a moment. I jumped up and looked at Jouichi. I changed form and the kumo lord jumped on my back. He surprised me but I ran forward at a blinding speed. I felt the Kumosaiga. I masked our presence completely and I could now scent my old mate. Jouichi slid off my back and I changed form. I was direct and I willed my fang into my hand. Naraku turned suddenly and quite shocked. He narrowed his eyes at me then his jaw dropped.

“Cunning little bitch. I should have figured.” He said in a haughty tone.

“Give me my pups.” I demanded.

“Last I checked I sire them.” He snarled.

“Well Ken'ichi you did not.” I snapped.

“Well guess what? He has never not been with me. Yuudai was too busy fighting your damn wars. He is my son as I promised the mutt I would love him as my own and I do.” Naraku hissed at me.

Anger and pain washed through me and it was as if Jouichi was not there.

“Fight me you self inflated narcissist.” I growled.

“Now now Asuna, I am not a moron. You are far more versed in that fang then I. I am far from stupid my little inu. So the uppyr trash got you pregnant.” He commented bitterly.

“You walked out on me. Why not?” I asked in a fury.

“You were trying to eat me. You turned to the one creature that I could not stand. I would rather Jing got you.” He hissed.

“I am half uppyr! You accused me of hating you when you had the bandit's heart in you! I did not. I hated that he subjected the real you!” I snapped.

“Do you hear yourself Asuna? I hate that the uppyr side makes you a licentious monster! You were mine. You belonged to me yet you could not accept my help.” He sneered.

“Help for what? This is not some ningen soul in me Naraku. This is part of who I am!” I growled low.

“Pardon me.” Jouichi said.

“My lord I am sorry. Naraku this is the Lord of the Tsuchigumo; Gaku Jouichi.” I said tightly.

“I know who you are kumo. This is between me and the bitch.” He said in heavy sarcasm.

“You look like Hisashi.” He said bluntly.

“Who?” Naraku asked raising a brow.

“My son. Why do you look my son?” Jouichi demanded.

“No idea. I am Naraku. Now Asuna I am quite busy.” He said flippantly.

I knew him and I had to move fast. I ported out and suddenly appeared beside him. I put Kumosaiga to his throat. I had surprised him and my heart was beating too fast.

“You would kill me mutt? Go ahead and then explain it to our pups.” He sneered.

I felt a bony appendage go straight through me and I looked up in even more surprise. Naraku had just reacted and not looked. I fell to my knees and Jouichi shouted.

“I would not have hurt you like this.” I breathed as I looked down.

He had pierced my stomach and I knew he had killed the babe. He actually looked horrified and the bleeding was awful. I managed to break his limb and stagger backwards. I crawled a little from him and he actually came to my side.

“Asuna! Kamis I did not mean it.” He said quite shaken.

“Hai you did. You know you did.” I breathed through the pain.

“Inu you need a healer!” Jouichi said coming to my side.

“No. I do not need a healer.” I said calmly but tears flooded my face.

“Asuna wait!” Naraku cried.

“You rid me Naraku. You must be quite proud.” I said bitterly.

I used all my yoki I could muster and I ported away. Eyal had not been infected just yet with the wraith and he would help me. I appeared in Walachia and several uppyr guards were shocked.

“Vlad Tepest. Tell him it is Asuna.” I said falling.

A blond uppyr caught me and yelled for someone to get Vlad. I was rushed into the castle and laid out in the throne room.

“Get Luca!” the guard yelled.

I heard and felt Eyal as soon as he entered the room. The look of shock and recognition on his face was immediate. He came over and he saw my belly and he took my hand.

“Asuna? What are you doing here? What happened?” he asked.

“Eyal.” I breathed barely above a whisper.

He again looked stunned and held me.

-Our baby- I pathed.

-What? - He asked horrified.

“Luca!” he yelled.

-When? How? - He asked in thought.

-My era. I love you. - I pathed as I reached up a hand to his cheek.

The uppyr doctor arrived and he picked me up and brought me to his chambers. He stripped the bloodied silk. Luca listened to my womb and he looked up.

“The babe has to come now. I cannot say if it will live.” He replied.

“Better then no chance.” I replied.

Eyal looked absolutely horrified.

“You know how?” I asked.

“Da. I have done this before.” He replied as he took a knife from a pouch.

He moved quickly and he cut into my old scar. I did not scream at all and just laid there. Eyal held my hand tightly and Luca moved swiftly. He managed to pull out a very tiny girl. I knew she would not live and hatred filled me. He put her in my arms and she was struggling to breathe.

“I love you. Do not fight it little one. It is okay to go.” I said as tears flooded my eyes.

Eyal touched a pale pink cheek and her head had a fine down of black hair.

“You wanted her named Rina.” I said in a tortured whisper.

“Da.” He said as his voice shook.

“Sire may I do anything?” Luca asked.

“Leave us for now.” Eyal said looking up and his eyes were filled with tremendous pain.

Our little Rina struggled for nearly an hour and she finally let go. I held her until I passed out. When I came to Eyal was sitting in a chair and staring at the brick wall.

“I want to enshrine her in Japan.” I said tonelessly.

“I shall see to her body.” He said as tonelessly.

“I am sorry to do this to you.” I said in a whisper.

“I would rather have gotten to say goodbye. When do you and I?” he asked suddenly.

“In my era for a couple of years. I love you.” I said in a flat tone.

“You need to return to your era.” He said standing.

“My old mate took my pups.” I said softly.

“He killed my daughter?” he asked in a hate filled voice.

“It was an accident.” I said.

“No that was quite deliberate. You and I are the reason you and this creature are not together? He kills my babe in revenge?” he asked in a terrible fury.

“Eyal. I need my pups and I need to go home.” I said in a wretched tone.

He picked me up and dipped into my mind with ease. He ported us to Japan and gently sat me down in front of a tree.

“I want you to come out and face me you sorry beast!” he screamed.

I felt Naraku and he was by me in an instant. Eyal lost his mind and threw my former mate with tremendous mental force.

“Stay away from her cur! You face me! You killed my babe!” he said in a blinding rage.

“Do not threaten me bastard! You are the cause of all this. You touched what did not belong to you!” Naraku raged as well.

My breathing was rough and I was still weak. I dipped into Naraku's mind and then I ported to the castle he kept the pups in. I fell and Mizuki ran to me.

“Haha!” she cried.

“Baby I need you. I need to channel your yoki. Nori and Ken'ichi?” I asked.

They came up and Mizuki took their hands.

“Where chichi?” Ken'ichi asked.

“They are fighting stupid!” Mizuki snapped.

“Mizuki!” I chided.

“Haha where is your pup?” she asked.

“Please do not ask.” I said in a shaky voice.

I channeled my daughter and I managed to bring us to Tamiko. She appeared in the doorway and she threw down an amulet quickly. I loved my Tengu and we went through. We appeared inside the Western Palace and I collapsed.

“Haha!” Mizuki yelled.

“Get jii-chan!” she yelled to Nori.

“Hai!” he cried.

I heard my pups trying to help me and I stared out. I was thrilled to have them back but the cost had been too high. I hated Naraku more then I thought possible. I saw my sire's booted feet and he leaned down and picked me up. He brought me to my chambers and he laid me down. My wound had reopened and I was bleeding again.

“Mizuki get Yasu. Stay calm.” He commanded.

“Hai jii-chan!” she said then ran to get the healer.

“Daughter what happened?” he asked.

“She is dead. She lived an hour.” I said softly.

“Your pup?” he asked horrified.

“Hai. She was too young. Naraku and I fought and he pierced my abdomen.” I explained closing my eyes.

“Cry. You need to cry.” He commanded.

“I have my lord. I am hoping to retrieve her body from Europe and enshrine it here.” I said softly.

“I will send your mother.” He said brushing my hair off my forehead.

I nodded and Yasu came in with Mizuki. She went and held her brothers hands. I would not talk badly about their sire but she sensed something awful had happened.

“Haha?” she asked.

“Hai?” I responded.

“Our baby is dead?” she asked me.

“Hai.” I said choking back tears.

“Chichi killed the baby?” she demanded.

“It is of no matter Mizuki. Come give me a hug and take the boys to the nursery.” I commanded.

She came over and hugged me tightly. She looked so much like her sire it hurt to see her. Nori and Ken'ichi hugged my legs tightly.

“Be good and haha will be better before you know it.” I said gently.

“Love you haha!” the boys said in unison.

“Love you two as well.” I said as a tear fell from my eye.

“Mizuki take your brothers.” My sire commanded.

“Hai jii-chan.” She said and then took their hands.

I had pathed to my mother and awhile later she had appeared with a small and ornate box. Eyal was behind her and his face was hardened with hatred. My mother stepped aside and he moved in. He lifted me up and I felt my sire suck in his breath. The uppyr ruler's face was full of love and sorrow.

“I was unable to hurt him. He has become my enemy. I will kill him for this. I will kill him for taking Rina's life.” He said whispered.

“Not here. Not right now Eyal.” I said closing my eyes.

“Tell me you will have my babe.” He demanded.

“Hai. I will.” I said looking at him and tearing up.

“I love you Asuna.” He whispered fiercely.

I nodded and he looked up.

“Lord Sesshomaru. I am Eyal of the tribe of Asher and a son of Israel.” He said bluntly.

“It is an honor to meet you.” My sire said inclining his head.

“Elizaveta?” he asked.

“Hai?” she answered.

“What do we do to give Rina honors?” he asked.

“We normally cremate.” She answered.

“I cannot burn my baby Elizaveta!” he said repulsed.

“I am not suggesting that we burn her. We can entomb her sir.” She said respectfully.

I began sobbing and Yasu came in and sat down. He managed to expose my belly and he began sewing without saying anything. He would not argue with me having an uppyr babe as I was in part uppyr. He was angry and I could tell he did not like what had happened.

“Let us take her to the shrine and we will hold a ceremony later.” My sire suggested.

“Da.” Eyal said.

He kneeled down by me and took my hand.

“I want to try again after you are healed and well.” He said softly.

“Can you keep the young missy here from having another loss? You know how many pups my girl here has lost?” Yasu hissed.

“I understand inu but blame this Naraku fellow.” Eyal growled.

“Kill him! He has caused this house enough misery!” Yasu growled back.

“How old are you inu?” my mate asked curiously.

“Older then you.” Yasu smirked.

“Well that is comforting.” Eyal laughed a little.

I just laid there and Yasu sewed up the wound. Mizuki came in and laid next to me.

“Did my chichi do that?” she asked.

“Not on purpose baby. It was a terrible accident. You know what happens when chichi and I fight.” I said softly.

“He hit you.” She said in anger.

“Mizuki I am not weak. I fight back and we had a terrible fight. This has nothing to do with you.” I said kissing her cheek.

“I am sorry the baby died.” She said touching my belly.

I looked up and Eyal kept his face even but he was simmering in awful anger.

“Mizuki. Let haha rest. Ask Ang Chi to come see me.” I said gently.

“Hai. I am sorry my chichi killed your baby.” She said looking up at Eyal.

“It was an accident.” He said evenly to my daughter.

She nodded and jumped up. She ran off to find her eldest brother. Eyal came and sat by me. He looked miserable and he had watched as our baby had been carried in her coffin by my sire.

“The box is beautiful.” I said softly.

“I am so angry right now.” He said in a malicious voice.

“Thank you for not bad mouthing Naraku.” I said tenderly.

“She is just a young girl. She had no control over her sire.” He said smoothing my hair.

“I forget you have had awhile to adjust to this reality.” I said closing my eyes.

“Do not think I will not get her justice. She was so tiny her eyes never opened! I have never seen an uppyr baby that tiny! Your mother was a twin and she was huge in comparison. He killed my daughter.” He said with tears in his eyes.

“Please stop! Please!” I began sobbing again.

Yasu had finished and slipped away. I was sobbing terribly and finally fell asleep.

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He was shielded heavily and regret tore through him terribly. He had not meant to harm her babe. Things had escalated to a point of no return. He was in the shape of an inu at the moment and no one knew he was here. He saw the babe enshrined with his friend Yuudai. Asuna did not even attend. The West was in mourning and the love of his miserable life was laying on her futon not moving. She would speak and even be loving with the pups but she would not rise. He felt terrible and he ported to Sendai. Ishin was working with Karu at his sword play. He stopped immediately and stared at Naraku.

“You killed the babe.” Ishin said in disbelief.

“We were fighting.” He said putting up his hand.

“But you saw her pregnant.” Ishin said in anger.

“She had Kumosaiga to my throat!” Naraku hissed.

“Yet you still impaled her and through her belly.” Ishin replied.

“I reacted. I did not mean to hurt her or her babe. I cannot say how sorry I am.” He said sitting.

“You will never get her back now. You have turned her to the uppyr completely.” Ishin said.

“I do not want her back! I want nothing to do with her anymore. Loving her is too damn hard!” He snarled.

“Then why are you here brother? I cannot give you absolution. I did not kill an innocent babe.” Ishin said almost cruelly.

“She betrayed you as well!” He hissed.

“You are the one that told me to accept her and learn to deal with her lovers! You turned someone who would have been a passing fancy into the most important person in her life.” Ishin growled.

“I did not mean to hurt her. I would not have done what I did on purpose. I was so angry at her. Father was with her.” He said in a wretched tone.

“Our father? Gaku Jouichi? How far did you go back?” he demanded.

“I was seventy or so.” He murmured.

“Kamis Naraku. I will fix this but you have to calm your damn temper! You have to grow up a little! You cannot force a distinction in her as much as she tried to do that to you! You two are babies at times!” Ishin growled loudly.

“She will not forgive me. She will not see that it was not done on purpose.” He said clenching his jaw.

“I said I will fix this. You are going to lay low and listen to your little brother for once! I have lived the same life for over a millennium I know what I am doing!” Ishin said in a temper.

“How can you fix this?” he demanded.

“You are going to back the hell off for now. I will think of a way. Now go to Korea. NOW!!!” Ishin yelled.

Naraku growled but did as he was bid. Ishin sighed and realized he had to fix this and soon.

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Mizuki watched as her sister was put in a vault at the family shrine. She was furious with her chichi at the moment and she had cried with her haha. She contemplated finding her Uncle Ishin and the more she thought on it the more it sounded good. She was holding Ang Chi's hand and she looked up at him.

“It will be okay sissy.” He said gently.

“Haha will not stop crying! My chichi did this!” she lamented.

“Mother needs to cry to feel better.” He said softly.
”Chi I can fix this! I know I can! I am strong; everyone says so.” She said looking up at him.

“Hai you are strong Zuki.” He replied.

“Cover for me Chi. I am going to my Uncle Ishin.” She said.

“Zuki do not! Mother will be worried sick. Your chichi took you and the twins. That made her crazy.” Ang Chi admonished his younger sister.

“Sorry Chi I have to.” She said bowing.

She ported out and found her uncle in Sendai. He looked surprised and pleased to see her. She hugged him and sighed.

“Little one this is not your fault.” He replied.

“It is chichi's fault!” she snapped.

“Chichi loves your haha very much. He is angry that the uppyr ruler loves her.” Ishin said.

“Take me back Uncle Ishin. I can stop my chichi. My yoki is just like his. I can shape shift!” she implored her uncle.

“How shall I take you back Zuki?” he asked confused.

“Tamiko! She is our Tengu. I have a little inu in me. Surely she will help us to help haha!” she said thinking.

Ishin watched her pace back and forth. She was turning into a stunning onna. She was eight and very soon would be nine. Her hair was straight and ebony. She had her sire's mahogany eyes and the blue markings on her eyelids. She bore the crescent moon on her forehead. She had her mother's stripes on her wrists as well. She was simmering in anger and her yoki seemed to be a live thing. He put a hand on her shoulder and tried to calm her. She held his hand and ported them to a small hut in the middle of nowhere.

“I needed to make sure Ayana was cared for Zuki!” he snapped.

“I pathed to Nobu. Kamis Uncle Ishin you can be such a downer.” She said with hands on her hips.

“You have been visiting your great aunt again I see.” He said crossing his arms.

“Hai.” She remarked.

She pounded on the door and a plain looking woman answered. She looked ningen but he was not fooled. This creature simmered power and he felt her canine nature.

“Lord Ishin. It has been awhile.” Tamiko remarked.

“You are the Tengu.” He said.

“Hai and little Mizuki wants to go back and save her sister.” Tamiko said sweetly.

“Please Tamiko! I am part inu!” Mizuki cried.

“You can save her. When you return only you two will know what happened. It shall be our secret. Lord Ishin I suggest you take on your true form.” She said in a soft voice.

“My sire.” He said plainly.

“Hai. You look too much like him for him not to know you.” She replied.

“Ready Zuki?” Ishin asked.

“Hai!” she said

Tamiko threw an amulet and Ishin changed form quickly. He followed Mizuki and suddenly they were in the North. Mizuki looked around and saw her sire and her mother. Her face grew hard and she threw her father quite far with her mind. She put a barrier around him and he turned and stared at her in anger.

“Mizuki! Why are you out here?” he hissed.

“Stopping you from being a jackass chichi!” she snapped.

Naraku's eyes widened at his daughter's mouth and Asuna looked stunned as well. She stared at Ishin and she knew Mizuki knew something they did not.

“Haha it will be better now! You will not cry.” She called out to her mother.

“Zuki come with me!” I demanded.

“Hai. I pulled down chichi's barrier. Nori and `Ichi are in there.” She said quickly.

I nodded and ported to get my sons. Mizuki turned and stared at her very obviously furious sire.

“How dare you defy me! Let me out!” he demanded.

“Sorry chichi but you hurt haha. You killed her baby. I cannot let you do that!” she said narrowing her eyes.

Naraku stared at her and then at Ishin. He suddenly understood and stepped back. Lord Gaku Jouichi came forward and stared at the giant kumo with tremendous interest.

“That is my uncle my lord. He is just making sure I am okay. I am Mizuki and that is my chichi Lord Naraku. The inu is my haha.” She explained.

“You are not from this era!” he said stunned.

“No sir but we are leaving. Chichi you say sorry to haha! Say sorry for taking us!” Mizuki demanded.

“You do not command me girl! I helped birth you into this world and how dare you order me!” he hissed.

He heard snorting in his head from Ishin and he glared at his brother.

-Say you are sorry! I am fixing this now!- Ishin snarled in his mind.

“She was wrong!” Naraku snapped in return.

-So were you! Now you will do it or I will. Apologize to your soul mate so I can have my life back as well! This is not just about you anymore Naraku! You are apart of a family now! A very large family.- Ishin thought.

“My whole damn family has turned against me? How dare you all!” he hissed.

“Chichi you hurt my sister! You hurt haha! That hurts us as well!” Mizuki reasoned.

Naraku actually looked stunned and proceeded to sit. His mind was in turmoil and his daughter came through the barrier. She hugged him tightly.

“I will bring you and haha back together. I can do it. You have to trust Uncle Ishin and I.” she said seriously.

“I do not want her back.” He said stubbornly.

“You can lie to haha but not to me chichi. You love her.” She said softly.

He stared at his daughter and wondered when she had grown up so quickly. He looked away and watched as his former mate appeared with his sons. She looked over at him and Mizuki went to her.

“See you soon chichi!” she said cheerfully.

They disappeared and the barrier vanished. He stared at his brother and he was in a very bad mood. He moved in front of he and Ishin's sire and bowed.

“Good to meet you Lord Jouichi. We leave.” He said and he produced his own amulet that had had gotten from Tamiko.

He broke the amulet and he went through. Ishin followed in his true form and they were back in Sendai. Ishin changed form and he turned on him. He hit him rather hard and he went to do it again. Ishin caught his hand and he stared at the kumo in anger.

“Whose idea was it for my own daughter to trap me?” he demanded.

“Hers. She came to me Naraku. She is powerful beyond what a youngling should be. Did you know she can shape shift?” he said calmly.

“No she cannot.” He said in disbelief.

“Like hell she cannot. That girl should be made co-heir with Karu and that is what I am doing. She is most definitely your daughter.

“I did not hurt Asuna!” he yelled.

“Mizuki stopped you from killing Asuna's babe.” He replied.

“I would not harm an innocent!” he snapped.

“You did! I am telling you that is what you did. Now we bide our time and you will get her back.” He commanded.

“I do not want her back! I am done with her!” Naraku snarled.

“Right! Whatever. Go brood as I have work to do. I miss my mate. I want her back and you will listen to me for once!” Ishin growled.

Naraku growled quite loudly but Ishin just walked away from him. His daughter had done something and he was unsure of exactly what had happened.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Mizuki kept holding onto me and hugged me tightly. She whispered and kissed my belly in excitement. I was surprised but so happy to be with the three of them again. She refused to leave my side and I held her as I read my letters. Mingli was busy fighting Hunan. Quon had forbidden me from setting foot near Hunan or Xizang. Li had written also and stated he understood my feelings and he would respect my need for space. He was an amazing individual and I wondered why I had to know such good males. Eyal brushed my mind and I warmed. The tiger world was a mess and I had managed to avoid open conflict with the kumo whore in Prussia for now. I decided to resume all my duties with a vengeance and work out some sort of visitation with Naraku.

I returned to Shanghai and I had all my pups with me. Hiroto and Kazuo were over ten now and it amazed me. Hana was nearly six and she was such a pretty little onna. Mizuki was a stunning young onna already and Ayana was crawling everywhere. Ang Chi was such a responsible young male I was letting him take more administrative responsibility in Manchuria. Ken'ichi and Nori were nearly five and they were handfuls. Zihao was sitting in Ang Chi's lap and he was purring. I would read him his chichi's letters to keep him in touch. He seemed to hate to be away from Hunan but I would honor Quon's wishes in this time of war.

“Hiroto and Kazuo why is your chichi telling me you have been switching places?” I demanded.

“It was just a bit of fun haha!” Hiroto said.

“Besides chichi is so serious!” Kazuo replied.

They were notorious for switching places and fooling people. It drove Sheng to distraction. Jin had taken Hiroto on a tour of Panyu and was slightly miffed when he discovered he had the wrong twin. They older they got the harder it got to tell them apart. For some reason Mizuki and Kazuo argued all the time and had a tendency to need stitches when they got done fighting. Hana got along with everybody and the identical twins were protective of her. Ayana was beginning to change form and she was a good sized funnel web female. Ishin was annoyed because she never did it for him. He had yet to see his natural daughter in her natural state. Ishin and I were very friendly and he was also giving me space. Ayana was in her true form at the moment and Mizuki had made her a web.

-Come see your daughter! - I pathed to him.

-Is she in her true form? - He asked excitedly.

-Hai! Mizuki is keeping her busy. Sneak in! - I thought happily.

Ishin ported and caught sight of Ayana as a funnel web. She saw her chichi and changed back instantly. She began whining to be picked up and he did. He picked her up and smiled down at her.

“Who is the prettiest little funnel web ever?” he asked.

She gurgled and pulled on his hair. He laughed and kissed her several times.

“Why will you not let chichi see your true form? You are pretty!” he cooed.

“Kumo?” she asked.

“Hai kumo! Pretty kumo!” he laughed lightly.

She blinked her black eyes at him and laid her head against his chest.

“Thank you for telling me. I do not know why she will only change form around you.” He said confused.

“She is a baby. She probably does not understand herself.” I smiled.

“Ang Chi can you watch the pups?” Ishin asked.

“Hai sir.” He said smiling.

I stood and took Ishin's hand. We walked slowly through the palace and he kept the silence companionable. He was being my friend and I needed it. I looked up at him and his black eyes met mine. I suddenly pulled him down and began kissing him deeply. He groaned softly and pushed me up against a wall. He picked me up and I wrapped my legs around his hips. His lips were searing mine as our mouths and minds melded. He pulled away for a moment and was breathing harshly.

“I can wait! I will give you time.” He whispered.

“No. I need you now!” I demanded softly.

He looked hungry and I was pulling roughly at his hakamas. He gathered my hanfu up and around my waist. He scratched my nub and I cried out. He could make me mindless immediately. He pulled me down on his girth and I shut my eyes.

“Ishin! Kamis you are amazing. You feel perfect my love.” I whispered.

“Inu I have missed you.” He moaned in my ear.

This was going to be a quick and intense lovemaking session and I was moaning softly. He flooded me with his yoki and his mind and I gasped beneath him. I let myself totally join with him and he was groaning under it all. He did the one thing I did not expect and he brushed Naraku's mind. I groaned and tried to say no but he moved himself in such a way that made me grip him tightly with my sheath.

“Ishin? Kamis no!” I muttered.

“Hai. Asuna please open your mind to him for me. This is for me lover. Please.” He said sucking on my throat.

I cried out and I invaded Naraku's mind. I would do this for Ishin but the pleasure we all were immersed in had me coming undone. Ishin intended for Naraku to feel our completions which in turn should throw him into his own. He surged up harder and rotated his hips. My nub was throbbing in glorious pleasure and I began to tighten and cry out louder for Ishin. He felt me coming down and he flooded Naraku. I felt the former hanyou cry out in his mind and Ishin growled loudly as we came undone together. His lips found mine as he kissed me silly. He held onto me as I trembled against him.

“That was not necessary to include him Ishin.” I said tired.

“That was for my own edification. I like the voyeur aspect. I have gotten rather kinky as they say.” He chuckled as he kissed my lips.

“My my you have changed Lord Ishin.” I chuckled as well.

“I want you again.” He growled lightly.

“Port us to my chambers.” I stated.

“Hai.” He murmured.

He ported us and I decided to let him take me however he wanted. I even got a little perverse pleasure in making Naraku squirm.

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Naraku was exhausted as his brother decided to be all manner of wicked. He was not allowing him to come down from one high to the next. He growled and he wanted her badly. He wanted to feel her as only he could. Ishin was doing it again and he was going to end up passing out. His hand grabbed his own girth to try and ease the ache. Mentally connecting was one thing but it left him physically in pain. He was going to loose his mind and he could stand it no more. He ported to Shanghai and they were sleeping. He could not believe but Ishin was projecting the act in his sleep. He growled low in his throat and his brother sat up slowly. He smirked and bowed at the waist. Asuna stirred just a little and fell back asleep.

“I need something!” he growled in a whisper.

“Hai I figured you would. I need to see to Ayana.” He said rising.

Ishin slipped from the chambers and he fought his own anger and betrayal. He gave up and leaned down and began kissing her awake. She moaned under him and her eyes flew open.

I could not believe what was happening but my body responded with a vengeance. I arched my back against his and began growling loudly. I was so damn angry and so incredibly turned on. I raised my claws and sank them in his back and dragged them across his skin and elicited a moan of pain. He lifted his lips from mine and he was more than angry. I felt wetness seep from my core and I was angry that my body should desire his so badly. He slapped me and I snarled at him terribly. His eyes were crimson and I threw him off of me. I moved on him and began hitting him and growling like a wild beast. He backhanded me and I stumbled. I grabbed his haori and we fell on the futon. I ripped at his clothes and got him completely undressed. He ripped open my dressing gown and dragged a claw across my nipple drawing blood. I cried out in pleasure and pain and he suckled the abused nubbin. I was fighting my beast but control was not to be had. I was one angry onna and I held the back of his head as he suckled my breast. He was not gentle at all and I began crying out. My claws dug in a little and he bit me in punishment. I snapped my fangs and he jerked his head up. His eyes met mine and he growled right back at me. He grabbed my hips and forced me onto my hands and knees. He entered me and I was becoming totally lost in my inner nature. He dug his claws into my sides and I snarled.

“You are also inu Asuna. You are my bitch! Do you hear me? You want this little inu?” he demanded.

“Hai!” I snarled out.

He moved so hard that I was going to be bruised. It would look as though he had taken me against my will and that was so far from the truth.

“Harder! Take us harder!” I ground out in a beastly tone.

He began thrusting so hard that I cried out in pain. He felt safe and he felt like home. I was climaxing already but he did not stop. I yelled out my rapture and I pulled on his yoki forcefully. He groaned out and I felt his raw nature inside of me and I was panting to try and take it all in. I was so caught up in the rapture of mind, body, and soul. He was groaning and panting as our yoki mingled. It was so incredibly hot and sultry at the moment that I had lost count of the climaxes.

“You are mine! Your soul belongs to me Hisashi! Sorami?” he called out.

“Hai. It is I.” I ground out.

He moaned and he slowed his thrusting and I began panting as the pressure was too much.

“Please Naraku! Please more!” I begged him.

He slipped out of me and I lost my mind. I was up and I shoved him back. He was more than surprised. I tore my dressing gown from myself and settled between his legs. I took all of him in mouth and he cried out. I rolled his sac in my hand and he was moaning out for me. I needed more and I released him from my mouth and I took one testicle in my mouth. I sucked on it gently and he was thrashing under me.

“Asuna! Release me koi!” he growled out.

I growled low in my throat and he threw his head back and cried out in passion. I suckled his other one and he shamelessly thrust. I tongued it for a moment and finally released him from my warm mouth. I kissed his member and he was straining and heavy with his need. He would release when he and I joined our souls. I was going to make him climax so hard he was going to lose consciousness. I licked and sucked up his abdomen and dipped my tongue into his belly button. He looked so ravishing in his passion that I wanted him screaming till he lost his voice. I took one of his male nubs into my mouth and suckled it hard and nipped them both with my teeth. He was coming undone and actually begging me. I was relentless as my teeth broke his skin. His blood was making me drunk and I pressed my yoki down upon him and he growled as I straddled his naked body. He was so beautiful and I ended up dragging my claws along his abdomen and lapping at his blood. I was working myself into a major blood lust and I decided to show him a total uppyr joining. I lowered my lips to his chest again and tongued his male nipple till he groaned. I sank my fangs into his chest and he sucked in his breath harshly. It was not a tasting but I drank from him. He actually began moaning as if a whore and I felt jolts and stabbing pleasure in my loins. He was in the throes of his own mindless joy but I would not let him complete. He was hoarse as he moaned softly. I could not take it anymore and I rubbed his member over my weeping opening. I slowly slid down his rock hard staff and he cried out loudly almost in a painful wail. I felt a tremendous build up of yoki but I did not stop drinking from him. Every nerve in my body ignited and he shared in it. I rotated my hips on him finally releasing his chest and moved wantonly on him. Every inch of my skin was alive and I felt him in me and about me. I gloried in him and his power. It had long since become one and I fell across his chest and sank my fangs deeply in his jugular and I released with such ferocity that my walls clamped down on him almost painfully. He yelled in rapture and flooded me totally with his whole being. I watched him succumb and he was blinded in the raptures our bodies had thrown us in. He sat up as our bodies spasmed together and sank his fangs into my neck. I shook and his tasting of me caused me to pass out. I awoke after awhile with him still buried in me and he was sleeping deeply. I felt him again and I was going to be damned if he pulled away from me ever again. Naraku was roused from sleep and I was being wicked at the moment. He looked at me and released a long moan.

“Did you enjoy me my soul.” I purred.

“Hai!” he cried softly.

“Do you still hate my uppyr half?” I asked.

“No!” he said lifting his head.

I was not even moving and I was releasing my yoki in waves. I lowered my lips to his neck again and sank my fangs in and began drinking again. He was actually gasping underneath me and I wanted to see if I could pull him under as well. He was actually moaning out `hai' and I loved it. I dragged him into bliss and I felt him stiffen and shudder under me. I released his throat and laid my head against his chest. His chest was rising and falling quickly and I was smirking.

“I am sorry. I have been too prideful.” He moaned softly.

“Hai you have been too prideful and arrogant but I will not hold it against you.” I said.

“Kamis Asuna!” he growled.

“You are turning me on.” I giggled.

“Inu you are something.” He sighed.

“Hai but you are mine.” I sighed in bliss.

“I thought I said you were mine.” He retorted.

“Hai that is what you said.” I said getting sleepy.

“Well then it must be.” He murmured.

“Do you want to pay Ishin back?” I asked.

“Hai very much so.” He said grinning.

Poor Ishin was going to get the brunt of our pent up passion.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

The battles between the tigers had turned into all out warfare. Mingli hated Chen terribly it seemed and the Byakko lord was not backing down at all. Chen was a renowned fighter and his victories had been staggering. I was in Shanghai and writing to Quon had become regular thing. I feared for Mingli as Chen was making great strides in defeating him. My sire had pledged to help the young Bengal lord if need be and I feared it would come to pass. Naraku was staying in Shanghai for the time being and he seemed determined to fix our relationship. I could never stay mad at him and I was a sucker for him and he knew it. Mizuki would sit back and watch us. We knew she was the reason we were together again and Naraku was amazed at his daughter. She did prove she was a shape shifter and that amazed us too. I was on a chaise in the study surrounded by my family when a runner came in. He handed me a letter and he looked winded.

“From where do you come?” I asked.

“I come from Wu my lady! Lord Chen and Lord Mingli are fighting a huge battle.” He said bowing.

Naraku looked at me and I fought my instincts. I loved Quon and cared deeply for Mingli. I stood up and opened the letter with shaking hands. Quon was dead and I fainted.

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

I was in Changsha and I was in a deep black hanfu. I had come to hate Chen Hu with a passion. I kept my feelings to myself and I had debated if Zihao should attend his ba's funeral but opted to let him say goodbye. My son would not stop crying and I held his small hand in mine. I would not allow his Byakko family near him. I stood away from the crowds and I watched as Quon was put in a tomb. By Chinese tradition Zihao was made heir but Cheung would be regent. I let the tears fall but did not break down. I murmured softly in Japanese and Zihao looked up as I said a prayer for his ba's soul. I pulled Zihao along and we walked away from the tomb.

“Lady Asuna!” Chen called.

I turned and stared coldly at my former father in law.

“I lost my son do not make me lose my grand son.” He demanded.

“You did that the day you let Chao die for your sins. Good day Lord Chen. I shall honor our treaty through the end of the decade but then find yourself another port.” I said calmly.

“You are actually taking Quon's son from us?” he snarled.

“I will not argue in front of him Lord Chen. I just watch you bury my husband and mate. I will allow Zihao to visit with his Byakko relations but never mistake that he is my son. It will also do you good to remember that I am inu. You have gone too far too many times. Now I said good day!” I said in a low and angry tone.

“Frigid bitch!” Chen snarled.

I ignored him and picked up Zihao and ported away. I buried my nose into my son's juncture and cried with him. He finally fell asleep and I settled in a chair that rocked. I moved back and forth and Naraku came in.

“I am sorry.” He said gently.

“I cannot think about it right now. Zihao is bereft. Can you ask Nobu to come here and see if we can settle him with a draught or something?” I asked.

“He sleeps now.” Naraku said touching his silver hair.

“He will wake up and start crying again Naraku. Quon and I had our issues at times but he loved his son as Zihao loved his ba.” I said softly.

“I shall return.” He bowed and ported out.

I just rocked my young son and Zhou came in. She bowed and nodded to me and she took Zihao from my arms. I stood up and she sat down and rocked him. He whimpered in his sleep and my heart wrenched. Anger tore through me and I ported to Lhasa. My black silks blew gently in the wind and I wore a heavy fur lined cloak as well. The guards recognized me and I bowed.

“Is Lord Mingli available?” I asked in Gan.

“Yes my lady. He asked if you showed up to show you to him.” The guard said.

“Thank you.” I nodded.

I followed the tiger into the Lhasa palace. It was as stunning and beautiful as I remembered. I was lead to a large gathering room that was full of couches and chaises. Mingli was speaking with other Bengal nobles I assumed and he stood when he saw me.

“Tell me the truth and do not lie as I am in a foul mood and I just buried my husband. Did you kill Quon Hu?” I asked.

“No I did not.” He replied.

“Who did?” I demanded.

“One of my uncles. My lady it was a battle and he died with honor!” Li said softly.

“Tell that to my young son! He cries now for his ba!” I snapped.

Li looked away and then straightened himself out.

“I did not want it this way. I wanted peace but Chen demanded I kowtow and I could not do that. I had to cement my power; do you understand that?” he asked me.

“I understand too much. Quon was ashamed of his ba. He was ashamed how he acted. He was innocent of this damn thing. He died for a Kamis damn bastard!” I said biting my lip.

“I am so sorry that this happened Lady Asuna. You were the last person I wanted hurt in this. I am so sorry that young Zihao has lost his ba. May we speak in private?” he asked.

I nodded and I followed him to a private study. I entered and he shut the door behind us. I found a low chair and sat. He sat opposite of me and sighed.

“My uncle went to take Chen out and Quon fell defending his ba. My uncle did not go after Prince Quon personally. He was being a good son and defending his ba and paid for it. I am sorry. He was not gone after personally.” He assured me.

I knew he spoke the truth and I sighed deeply. I stood up and stretched and he saw my belly.

“Hai I am pregnant.” I said looking at him.

“I am happy for you. I hope you can forgive us Bengal. I never meant for you to be hurt.” He commented.

“It is like you said. This is not personal. Zihao needs me.” I said bowing.

“I am sorry.” He said touching my hand.

I looked at him and nodded. I ported away to Shanghai. I saw Nobu and he was rocking Zihao. I sat down by the chair and the kumo healer looked saddened for my son.

“I have given him a sleeping draught. He should sleep the whole night away. He loved his sire.” Nobu said softly.

“Hai he did. I loved him as well. It was an interesting scenario to say the least but it is over. My son needs strength to help him through this.” I said running my fingers through his silver hair.

“You are raging right now my lady. Truly you need to calm yourself for your babe is a telepathic youki and needs you to stay calm.” He admonished me lightly.

“Nobu you are truly one of the best males I know but do not tell me how to feel or react. I know you lost a mate but I have lost one too many. My babe is uppyr and I know how I must be.” I said closing my eyes.

“I have him Asuna. Why not go to wherever your uppyr lover is and have him help you. Your eyes are burning red.” He said continuing to rock Zihao.

“They are?” I asked surprised.

“Hai.” He nodded.

I sighed and I ported to Buda. I followed Eyal's aura and I met him in his library. He wrapped his arms around me and I held on tightly.

“What happened? I sense your anger and your eyes are crimson.” He said lifting my chin.

“Quon fell in battle with the Bengal. Zihao lost his father.” I said closing my eyes.

“Who is responsible?” he asked softly.

“Ultimately it is Chen's fault for all of it. He bedded my mother and got her pregnant on purpose.” I said in anger.

“I believe Elizaveta had a hand in that as well Asuna.” He said brushing my cheek with his fingers.

“My mother is responsible as well but she has been trying to rectify her behavior. Father loves Masami as if he spawned her himself. Hell I thank the Kamis that she looks so much like mother.” I said bitterly.

“I cannot think what to say my love except that time has an amazing way of healing.” He said rubbing my shoulders.

“Naraku and I have made up.” I said laying my head on his chest.

“I had hoped. Your soul is tied to his. I do not understand it all but I do understand that.” He said holding my face.

“You do not mind?” I asked meeting his eyes.

“I fell in love with you the way you are. You do not have to explain who you are or how you are to me. We are the ones that deal with each other. Plus I understand your uppyr self far better then anyone ever will. I do not see this as a contest but as an opportunity for you and me some measure of happiness. Besides I am not just any uppyr.” He chuckled.

“You are the undisputed ruler of our kind and I fall at your feet in supplication.” I murmured.

“Do not be a goose.” He said lightly.

I went to my knee and prostrated myself to him. He looked embarrassed and I got up. He held me in his arms and I looked up at him.

“I did the one thing the wraith wanted from me and you have never asked.” I said meeting his brown eyes.

“What was that?” he asked in a low tone.

“I acknowledge you as my master and the ruler of my kind. I pay and owe you fealty. I give you our child.” I said against his lips.

A growl escaped him and he began kissing me deeply and pushed me up against a stone wall. I would never have said it before and it amazed me that I said it now but I believed it truly. He pressed his lips to my forehead and he was repressing his need.

“Why not?” I asked him.

“I am not in control and I will not hurt the mother of my unborn babe.” He said fiercely.

“What have I done?” I asked utterly confused.

“Everything amazing my darling I just want to consume you is all.” He blushed sheepishly.

“I will not break. You can be with me.” I said holding his face.

“Da in a little while. I want you to feed and get what you need first. I remembered flashes of the wraiths demise.” He said softly.

“When did you become aware?” I asked.

“Between you and Shezmu I felt horrendous pain. It was awful really but I remembered your words from the past. I knew I wanted to live free. I even prayed to God to give me strength and thank you for helping me.” He said softly looking away.

“I would have freed you sooner if I knew Eyal. If I had known I would have decimated it the second I laid eyes on you.” I said fiercely.

“I know Syna betrayed me but I still do not know which wraith clan she turned to.” He said in anger.

“Does it matter anymore?” I asked.

“Da to me it does. I want them to suffer as they made me suffer for centuries!” he stated.

“Then I will help you. I have gotten good at killing wraiths.” I said as he held me.

“Not till the babe is born.” He murmured.

“Mizuki swears she is a girl.” I said lightly.

“Well then I shall have a son and daughter!” he smiled down at me.

“Hai.” I whispered.

I shut my eyes and I wondered who else I would have to watch die in my life.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I was in Manchuria and I had attended Tekeshi's shrine. I was dealing with the Manchu Noble Council and I decided that Ang Chi was more than ready. He would have me to fall back on but I was stepping down as his regent. He came into the study and bowed to me. He was a handsome young male and I could not be more proud of him.

“It shall be issued in an edict this day that you are the sole ruler of Manchuria. You shall take your place now.” I said proudly.

“What?” he asked stunned.

“You are far more mature then most at your age Ang Chi. I am most proud to be your mother. You do not need me as frankly I have my own lands that your jii-chan left me. It is time you took the mantle that wars were fought for. You are Lord Ang Chi; Master of Manchuria and soon all of China. You will be the start of a new dynasty there.” I said smiling.

“Mother I am not ready!” he said panicked.

“Hai you are. You shall see and I am around to fall back on son! You shall be fine. Sheng is still your advisor as Ichigawa is your general. If you should like I shall see if Geming would also join your army. He was raised by Tekeshi as well.” I said.

“I am honored mother.” He said bowing.

“You will have a coronation ceremony soon. You rule yours lands as you see fit but rule them wisely. You are responsible not only for the inu but ningen as well. Make your decisions based upon not only your welfare but theirs as well.” I said as I stepped from behind the desk.

He was shaken and he sat down at the place I had just vacated.

“I would suggest you not mate till you are older but I shall not command you as I have.” I said smiling down at him.

“I am still young!” he lamented.

“Hai you are but you are also more than able to handle this.” I said bowing to him.

I slipped from the study and I ran into Sheng. I smiled and he took my arm. We walked in silence and I pressed his mind. He looked at me annoyed and I laughed.

“Have you been busy at all?” I asked.

“Have I been busy with what?” he asked arching a brow.

“I wish you would find a mate.” I sighed.

“I had a mate. I have my sons and my daughter. I am quite content.” He shrugged.

“That is not what I mean Sheng.” I said irritated.

“Asuna we have remained very close and I am comfortable with my life okay? I adore being a father and my role as advisor. You were the love of my life and I accept things. You fought for me to be returned to life and I thank you for it. I wanted you to myself and I cannot have that so I have you as my best friend. Now let it go.” He said evenly.

“I wronged you.” I sighed.

“I wronged you as well if you remember right. I took what was not mine. I took my brother's mate and I do not regret that but it was wrong. You two might have had a chance if we had not taken place. Had I not died we still would have ended up here anyway. You and Naraku took precedence over us.” He shrugged.

“You believe we would not have worked?” I asked.

He leveled me a stare and I was shaken to my core. It hurt to hear it and I looked away.

“I will never not love you but I am not strong enough to handle your life. I pray for you everyday.” He said pulling away and bowing.

I nodded to him and he walked on. Regrets ripped through me and I wished to the Kamis I did not feel this way. Baku had been kept busy by events throughout my lands and our relationship had been pushed aside for now. I stared out onto the grounds of the Summer Palace and painful memories assaulted me. I almost wished I could turn back time and change history. Losing Quon had put me into a frightful depression. I hurt for my son and he was despondent. I wiped the tears from my eyes and sighed in irritation. I looked out on the grounds and I ported. I ended up in Lhasa and in Li's chambers. He was asleep but shot upright when he felt my aura.

“I am torn up right now. I feel as though I should be the one to hate you now.” I said conflicted.

“It will not make the pain any easier to deal with.” He replied gently.

I moved over to him and hit his bare chest in anger. It was not his fault and he let me do it. I looked at him and tears streamed down my face.

“I am sorry. Asuna, I am sorry!” he cried softly.

He pulled me into his arms and held me as I sobbed. His lips pressed against my forehead and I could not stop the tears. Guilt wracked me and I hated myself. I hated my weaknesses and I hated that those I loved left me. He held onto to me until I cried myself to sleep.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I woke up in the morning and I looked at Li. He was sleeping on his back and his reddish-gold hair framed his patrician features. His tiger striping was subtle and he really was a stunning tiger. I leaned over his body and my hair spilled around us. I only intended to lightly kiss his mouth and he opened his eyes when my lips pressed his. He sat up and his eyes held mine.

“I will not take advantage of you.” He said softly.

“Is that what I did to you in your grief Li? Did I take advantage of you?” I asked arching a brow.

“No. You allowed me to express my grief as I needed.” He said gently.

“How good of a fighter are you?” I asked.

“Fairly good I suppose.” He replied.

“Zihao is a tiger and he is bereft and I cannot help him totally. He feels lost in a family full of inu and kumo.” I said starting to shake.

“How can I help you?” he asked of me.

“I know not Li. I have no idea of anything.” I sighed.

“Princess I would help you if you allow it.” He sighed.

“You remind me of Quon in that you are a dear friend but it has not been a fight. You have never hated me.” I said emotionally.

“Then allow me to help. I can take Zihao under my wing so to speak. I can teach him what it is to be a tiger.” He stated.

“You are not his ba.” I said staring at him.

“No I am not but I can be his friend.” He said evenly.

“I shall allow you to be an influence then.” I said standing.

“I am honored.” He bowed.

“I shall leave you for now. There is something I need to see to.” I said.

I pressed fingers to his lips and he smiled. I bowed again and ported away. I ended up on Mount Fuji and I looked around.

“Kaito if you are anywhere close please talk to me.” I said into the wind.

“What brings you here Lady Asuna?” he asked from behind me.

“You have insight. I need your counsel.” I said sighing.

“I thought you wanted my body. Well I shall see what I can do.” He said good naturedly.

“Do you still intend me to bear you a babe?” I asked bluntly.

“Hai. I have to back off of my original agreement because frankly you need a break.” He laughed.

“Thank you.” I said blushing.

“You wish to know why? I have no answers for the why. I can tell you that I have lived nearly five millenniums and I have seen much.” He said smoothly.

“I hate wraiths.” I snapped.

“Well most of the wraith world does not like you. I could not care less what the Shouten Wraiths do as my kind are much fewer in number.” He replied.

“Have you been watching?” I asked.

“Oh hai. I know you and the uppyr king have reacquainted.” He smirked.

“Reacquainted?” I asked.

“Hai. You think that Sorami was all you were? Please! Why do you think you are so powerful in this life? Kamis Lady Asuna you were an uppyr before you were an inu.” He chuckled.

“Who? When?” I demanded.

“You lived in a land you are quite familiar with yet and you continue to travel in the same circles. You know this silly girl.” He laughed.

“Who?” I asked.

“I shall let you figure that out. Things happen for a reason but you need to talk to the Egyptian inu. They can shed some light.” He smiled.

My eyes were wide and I nodded.

“I shall catch up with in a few years. I know where you reside.” He said standing and bowing.

“Thank you.” I said standing as well.

“Oh do not thank me. You are going to deal with the misery of that life as well.” He said phasing out.

I was stumped and I ported to Jining. I went to Shezmu's dwelling and knocked on his door. He opened it and a grin graced his handsome visage.

“Well you look stunning. You are having an uppyr babe?” he asked curiously.

“You can feel it?” I asked.

“Yes. May I ask who the father is?” he asked letting me inside.

“His name is Eyal and he is formerly Hebrew.” I said sitting upon a cushion.

“Very interesting. Well that is a group I remember well. What brings you here little one?” he asked.

“I spoke with Kaito and he says I lived before even Lady Sorami. He says you could help me figure it out.” I said looking up.

“Me? Why me?” He said intrigued.

“He said my soul was uppyr before.” I said shrugging.

“Excuse me?” he asked looking stunned.

“Hai.” I said raising a brow.

“I cannot see how I can help but I am glad to see you.” He said putting a fake smile on his face.

“Why are you hiding your thoughts?” I asked.

“Little one please! I have a right to privacy.” He said looking away.

“I was an uppyr before and you know of the uppyr in Egypt.” I said flatly.

“Of course I knew my mother's people.” He said softly.

“Tell me then!” I snapped.

“This is beyond ancient history Asuna! What does it matter now?” he demanded.

“I am becoming very uppyr like at times.” I said bluntly.

“Well you are half as is I.” he shrugged.

“Shezmu what are you not saying? Who did you know that was uppyr besides your mother?” I demanded.

“My mate!” he snapped.

“Huh?” I asked surprised.

“You could not tell from your visions that she was uppyr?” he asked curiously.

“No why should I think that?” I said dumbly.

“She was a priestess of Hathor little one. They had to have special abilities that a normal inu could never have.” He said smirking.

I looked at Shezmu and I stood up. I needed Tamiko and I was shaking. He truly had no idea what I was thinking. He seemed concerned and I shook my head.

“I will see you soon.” I said suddenly and ported away.

I made my way to Tamiko and I pounded on her door. She answered and she looked angry.

“You did not want Kaito telling me!” I accused.

“Your inu self is what concerns me! You want to know who you were?” she asked.

“HAI!” I snapped.

“Sweet Asuna you will further complicate your life.” She said shaking her head.

“I was Akana was I not?” I asked in anger.

“Hai.” She said looking away.

“How would I know Eyal?” I demanded.

“You did not die when Shezmu thought you did. You were taken by the jackal clan. Shall I prepare the potion?” she asked.

“No. How did I know the uppyr ruler?” I asked.

“You were a lover. He did not know what you were as you were older. You did not tell him what he was because of his religion. You were able to shield yourself well. You were killed in an uprising in that awful city.” She said in disgust.

“Why are you so angry?” I asked looking at her with pained eyes.

“Because Kaito is a self inflated arse who has no business messing with you! Your family is my responsibility. I did not tell you to further your own pain. It was dreadful Asuna!” she said looking away.

“I have Eyal's memories but I was just someone he was fond of.” I said suddenly.

“You never shared yourself. You still loved your mate. Shezmu will figure this out my darling girl. He suffered and to know that the uppyr ruler had his love?” she said sighing.

“I see. Good Kamis. I will deny it. It was probably better if I had never known. No wonder I was able to see all those things in Egypt. I was having memories.” I said bitterly.

“Hai.” She said softly.

I looked down and sighed heavier. I only knew what Eyal remembered and he would be thrown. I ported to Shanghai and I did not want to remember. I wondered at Kaito's motives. I immersed myself in my magistrate's reports and I sensed Shezmu. I bit my lip and I turned.

“What are you not telling me?” he demanded.

“Nothing. I have no wish to delve. I am living this life and that is what I am concerned about.” I said looking up.

“You are avoiding telling me something huge! I will not have it Asuna! You need to tell me.” He snapped.

“What are you going to do? How are you going to make me? I do not want to know! I do not care as it is past!” I yelled.

“Tell me! I am not stupid Asuna.” He said coming closer.

“Shezmu back off!” I snarled.

“I have to know! I have a right to know!” he said in profound grief.

“I was Akana okay?” I said backing up.

“By the Gods!” he breathed and looked stricken.

“I am not her anymore! I am Lady Asuna.” I said shaking.

“You were having memories in Egypt! No wonder I felt you in Rome!” he said in a passionate tirade.

“Shezmu this matters not.” I said shaking.

“It does not matter? It matters little one! You know what loss feels like; you know how painful it is to know that the love you have is ripped from you!” He said in an emotional tone.

“Shezmu I am no longer she. I lived in between.” I said shaking my head.

“You have been around and I did not know. Gods this is killing me!” he cried.

“I am sorry but I have no intentions of remembering.” I said softly.

“Why?” he asked in a pained voice.

“Because I do not want to! It is enough I remembered my lie as Sorami. I do not want to relive the pain of dying!” I yelled.

“I want to know what happened! I want to know why you were ripped away from me. I never found your body. I scented your blood everywhere!” he cried.

“Stop it! Stop it now!” I said starting to sob.

“Asuna! Little one I am sorry but I have to know.” He said coming closer and pulling me up.

“By the Kamis leave me alone Shezmu! I do not want this. You do not need to live in the past!” I hissed.

“You have no idea how much I loved you! I fell in love with you over again this time too. How am I supposed to feel?” he asked me in a rough tone.

“You are supposed to remember her and honor her. I have evolved and I am no longer Akana. I am me and that is all.” I said rubbing my temples.

“Please! Little one please!” he begged.

I looked up into his pain filled eyes and my own fell. I looked away and nodded slowly.

“I want to wait till my babe is born. You have no idea what it is you ask!” I said shaking.

“I am sorry but I have loved you for over three thousand years!” he said as a single tear slipped from his eye.

“Shezmu stop!” I said trying not to cry harder.

“Neither of us questioned why we made love that first time! It seemed right and natural and it makes sense now. You were my heart and soul and I found you only to lose you again?” he asked in a wretched tone.

I did not want to feel what I was feeling and I backed away. I was sobbing horribly and I was not shielding very well. I tripped over the chair trying to get away. I fell in a heap and I felt pain in my lower back.

“Little one!” he said coming to my side.

“Stop! Kamis please stop.” I begged.

“Shush! You need to breathe deeply. Your water has broken.” He said picking me up.

“I need to go to Romania.” I said in a shaky voice.

“Why there?” he asked gently.

“Eyal.” I said closing my eyes.

“I can port you.” He said.

“NO!” I hissed.

“You are hiding a lot when you never hide anything from me!” he said sternly.

“Put me down. Go to Jining.” I said closing my eyes.

“You are in labor!” he said exasperated.

“I have birthed a pup or two.” I said sarcastically.

“Obviously.” He said raising a black brow.

“Do not start being a pig now!” I snapped.

He growled and dipped into my mind. He saw the castle in Buda and ported us there. I was thrashing in his arms and cursing at him in Egyptian. He had taught me his language well. He looked down at me and pain filled his features. He was remembering things and I lost it.

“Stop it! I am Asuna! I am Lady Asuna Yuina Zoya Orlovich Kamis damn it!” I snarled.

“I know who you are, I want you to know who you are!” he said in a low tone.

“Do not tell Nafre that her mother is reborn. Leave it alone Shezmu.” I snapped.

“Do not tell me what to tell my own pup!” he snapped back.

“Shezmu it hurts!” I whined.

“Shhh. Give me your wrist.” He commanded.

I handed him my wrist and he bit in. He put me into a light trance and I laid my head against his chest. I felt Eyal coming and I knew he felt my presence.

“Put me down and go please!” I said in a tired voice.

“No! Stop commanding me.” He said in irritation.

“You reside in my lands, therefore I can command you!” I said narrowing my heavy eyes.

“Little one quit drifting! What is wrong?” he demanded.

“Sleepy.” I said shutting my eyes.

“What the hell?” I heard Eyal say.

“You?” Shezmu said suddenly furious.

“Well I had not thought you still around. Hello.” Eyal said softly.

“I helped kill you!” he snapped.

“No you helped kill the wraith that possessed me and I thank you for it. Now can you please hand her over?” Eyal said calmly.

“No. She is not well and the spider healer is the best I have seen.” Shezmu said.

“How dare you!” Eyal growled.

“I do not fear you uppyr. I am far older then you any day. Goodbye.” He said and ported us away.

I struggled to say something but Shezmu picked Sendai from my brain and we appeared in the great hall.

“Help!” he yelled.

Ishin ran in first and Naraku as well.

“Your healer spider! She stumbled and now she is incoherent.” Shezmu said urgently.

“Put her down.” Naraku said.

Shezmu laid me down and I looked up at him. His eyes were full of concern and love. I felt Ishin bristle and caught the Egyptian inu's eyes.

“Newet gave me life and I gave you Satet.” I mumbled in Egyptian.

His eyes widened and he actually gasped softly.

“What did she say mutt?” Naraku asked softly as Nobu came to me.

“"Ra in heaven and upon earth?" Now, behold, each day Ra entered.” I murmured in Egyptian.

“She is saying prayers from the Book of the Dead.” He said shaking.

“Why?” Naraku said looking confused.

“Unsure Lord Naraku. I refused to give her to the uppyr.” He murmured.

“Are you alright?” Naraku asked.

“No. Please I have to go. I know she is well and amongst her family.” He said bowing.

Ishin glared at the ancient inu and he ported away

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Shezmu ported to the small palace that Akemi and Anupu shared. He was shaking terribly and he found his elder brother playing with his son. Akemi had given him another son recently and he looked fondly at his nephew.

“Anupu! I have to talk to you.” He said.

“Shezmu? You look horribly upset! Whatever is wrong?” Anupu asked.

“Akana! I found her and I did not know it.” Shezmu said sitting.

“Shezmu she has been gone along time.” Anupu stated shaking his head.

“Yes and no. Asuna is Akana. When we were in Egypt a few years ago she saw things and she was able to project to you. We thought it was all the residual ka! It is because she was remembering!” he said terribly upset.

“Brother! I have no idea what to say. How? Why? Akana was a priestess of Hathor, why would she reincarnate?” Anupu asked confused.

“Because our gods were defunct daemons! We are no more gods then they. These Asian religions seem based upon some fact. Whatever it is, I know that Asuna is Akana reborn.” He said as his chest was heaving with repressed emotion.

“Brother what of it? This is a different lifetime for her!” Anupu said.

“Yet she finds all her past lovers? She falls in love with those of her past lives? Anupu I cannot let this go! She bore me five pups. I loved her more than anything on this earth. She was my reason for being. I felt her all the way in Rome whilst I dwelt in Upper Egypt!” he said standing and then pacing.

“Shezmu please! I have heard that she is mated to the uppyr ruler as well.” Anupu said gently.

“I cannot handle this. I have to know for sure Anupu.” He said pacing more.

“Shezmu stop!” Anupu cried softly.

“You found your soul mate after you woke up Anupu. Mine was murdered by the same damn beasts that murdered our sister and my other pups! You have no idea what it feels like to be so alone and without those that were of you and part of you. Pray that you precious son is never ripped from your life.” Shezmu said closing his eyes and fighting back terrible pain.

“You are right. I hope you figure this out.” Anupu said sadly.

“I hope so too.” He said fighting back a tumult of emotion.

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

Eyal was beyond frightened and he ported to Sendai. He knew the shape shifter did not like him but he would be damned if he was going to miss the birth of his babe. He came face to face with shape shifter and he was cordial for the moment.

“She is bleeding internally. She fell but Nobu has her. Do you wish to see her?” Naraku asked tightly.

“Please.” He breathed.

“This way.” Naraku said.

Eyal followed the shape shifter and the spider daemon healer had her on a futon and he was working quickly.

“Halima.” She muttered softly.

Eyal moved forward and listened to her speak ancient Egyptian. She was mumbling and he was shaken to his core.

“How does she know Egyptian?” he asked softly.

“I did not know she spoke it. She was induced into a trance by Shezmu-sama to help her deal with the pain. She began speaking it not long after.” Naraku shrugged.

“Eyal!” she cried.

“What the hell is she saying?” Ishin asked from the door.

“She keeps murmuring and saying the words Halima and Eyal over and over.” Naraku informed his brother.

“How soon healer?” the uppyr king asked.

“Give me a moment.” He said and he pulled out a healthy sized babe.

She began screaming and her head was covered in soft black hair. She had a moon on her forehead and Nobu smiled.

“You have a daughter. She is healthy but you need to take her so I can stop this bleeding.” He said smiling at the uppyr.

He held out his hands and Nobu placed his infant daughter into his arms. He looked down and he was struck with her simmering power already. She opened her eyes and they were her mother's eyes. Naraku watched the uppyr and his heart softened a little. Eyal looked up and watched the healer staunch the internal bleeding and begin sewing her up. His beloved looked over at him and he was struck dumb by the look in her eyes. He recognized it and he knew her knew her before.

“Halima.” He said softly.

“Eyal.” She smiled softly.

“Why did you not say anything? You knew what I was.” He said in Akkadian.

“You were not ready and I was not free.” She replied.

“I do not understand.” He said barely above a whisper.

“So tired.” His love said and fell back into sleep.

“What the hell is going on? What language were you speaking?” he asked.

“The Babylonian tongue. Your mate has lived before and I knew her.” Eyal said uncomfortably.

“Excuse me?” Ishin and Naraku both said.

“She was an uppyr named Halima. She was Egyptian.” He said suddenly angry.

“She was Lady Sorami dolt!” Naraku snapped.

“This woman has lived before your inu princess shape shifter. I know not exactly what or why this is happening but she was my lover before two millenniums ago.” Eyal snapped in return.

“How in the hell!” Naraku said stunned.

“May my daughter and I stay near her for now?” he asked as respectfully as he could muster.

“Hai. Ishin watch the uppyr. I need to find Tamiko.” Naraku said bluntly.

Naraku ported out and appeared near the Tengu's home. She appeared at the door and sighed. She motioned for him to come in and he sat down heavily.

“The uppyr says he knew her before and her name was Halima. He says she was an uppyr more than two thousand years ago.” He said.

“He is correct but that was the name she chose to keep her mate safe from the jackals and scorpions in Egypt.” She said looking away.

“Who was she and does it really matter?” he asked raising a brow.

“It should not and I tried to keep it from coming out. She is acting more uppyr because she has been a full blooded uppyr. Asuna has come full circle in her lives. She knows all the males that she knew.” Tamiko sighed.

“Good Kamis! I do not understand.” He said in confused tone.

“Do not fret Naraku.” Tamiko said.

“How can I not? What happens when she remembers everything?” he asked.

“I do not know. You can thank Kaito for this.” Tamiko said in anger.

“I will wring the damn wraith's neck!” he growled.

“Please do. Now your mate needs you.” She said softly.

He nodded and ported out via his miasma. He appeared in his bedroom at Sendai and Asuna was awake.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

“Hello.” I said softly as Naraku appeared.

“Hello. You have managed birth yet another beautiful babe. We need to talk.” He said gently.

“What about?” I asked confused.

“You were speaking Egyptian.” He said flatly.

“Shezmu-sama taught me. Why would I be speaking it?” I asked.

“Well it seems you lived before even Hisashi and Sorami koi. It seems you knew Vlad in that previous life.” He said bluntly.

I was really confused and perplexed. He could see my face and he sat down by me.

“Things are making more sense and I have to beg your forgiveness. I am not giving you up though so the uppyr will have to deal.” He said brushing his fingers in my hair.

“I would not want to give you up! Can we speak about this later and may I see my babe?” I asked.

“Hai. Let me get the uppyr. I do not have to be his best friend but I shall be cordial.” He said leaning down and kissing my lips.

“Thank you.” I whispered.

He nodded and went to get Eyal and Rina. Several moments passed and they appeared. Eyal came and sat by me and showed me our daughter. My heart was beating fast as I spied a beautiful little baby girl. She had my crest and nothing else except my eyes.

“Jarek is going to be excited. He begged me when he was little to have a sibling for him. I have to say she is prettier then Elizaveta was and that is something.” He said softly.

“She is stunning. Let me feed her.” I said taking her from him.

“Do you remember your mumbling?” he asked gently.

“Hai.” I said quietly.

-Do you remember what was happening? - He asked in thought.

-My name was not Halima. I was Akana. - I thought back.

“What?” he asked surprised.

“Hai.” I sighed.

“Do you remember anything more?” he asked softly.

“I remember flashes and I will not be delving. It matters not. I was a lover and not your soul mate.” I said firmly.

“I could have loved you as Halima.” He said flatly.

“I could not!” I said fiercely.

“Why Asuna?” he demanded.

“Because I was mated already.” I said quietly.

“Who?” he demanded.

“Shezmu.” I said looking away.

I had managed to shock a being who was one of the oldest creatures I knew. His face went through a myriad of emotions and finally settled upon a peaceful expression.

“You are right. It serves no purpose to delve. I am sorry I was upset.” He said gently.

“You do not want me to remember him!” I accused.

“No I do not. Look you bore me a babe this day and I want to take her home to Romania so that she may meet her brother. I found out that you knew what I was and you did not tell me.” He sighed.

“Do not be angry at me for things that are buried deep! I may have been her at one time but I am Asuna now. You learned to love me independent of this knowledge now let it go.” I said in a frigid tone.

“You are right. I am sorry again.” He said kissing my forehead.

Rina was nursing well and I felt her canines as they were sharper then my other pups.

“They will be. She will be able to take in our natural food after a couple of years.” He replied to my thought.

“I see.” I said touching her soft hair.

“She has more hair then even your mother did.” He smiled.

“Mother! Get her!” I stated.

“You are bossy.” He laughed.

“Hai I am.” I smirked.

He ported out and I settled back. Ishin and Naraku popped their heads in and smiled.

“She is a beauty but I would not expect you to bear an ugly pup.” Ishin said smiling.

“Funny.” I laughed.

“You are going to Buda?” Naraku asked.

“Hai.” I nodded.

“Well then I will join you after a few hours. The Tepest will have to learn to share.” He smirked.

“Be good Naraku!” I snapped.

“Always my dear.” He bowed.

I grunted in annoyance and my mother appeared. She came and sat down next to me and was beaming.

“She is beautiful! Look at that she has your crest!” she smiled.

“Thank you!” I smiled.

I felt Eyal's pride and impatience. He wanted Rina home amongst her kind and I stared up at him and glared. He kept an even face but he was challenging me.

“Elizaveta come to Buda. I am taking Rina and Asuna to my home now.” He said flatly.

Before I could say a word he put hands on us and ported us to his bedroom in the Buda Castle. He stepped back and sighed in contentment. He left the room and he was giddy in his way. He had gone to get Jarek and I waited on them and Jarek busted into the room. He was beaming and looked down at his now sleeping sister.

“God she is beautiful. Well you did well. May I hold her?” he asked.

“Hai.” I said laying her in his arms.

She stirred a little and stretched in his arms. She settled back down into her blanket and slept on.

“Father she is going to be a beauty!” Jarek said.

“I think so. I will show her to the nobles soon.” He said smiling with pride.

“How about you ask me?” I snapped.

“I am her father my dear. Now I will show her off if I wish. She is too pretty to be cooped up. I am having a bed made for the library.” He said smugly.

He was really and truly happy and I smiled up at him. He loved her fiercely and that touched me. My worries for the moment seemed far away and thoughts of another lifetime fled my mind.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I moved back and forth between Buda and Shanghai for the moment. Things were quiet for the moment and Rina was nursing as I read my letters. Things near Xizang were getting busy and I was wondering what the Bengal were up to. I felt Shezmu's aura and I looked up. He wore a pein fu of dark bronze and a black ku. He looked magnificent and I met his eyes.

“Please do not ask me to do it.” I said biting my lip.

“Little one I will beg you again. I know it is a lot but I have to know.” He said sitting by me.

He ran his fingers through Rina's hair and he looked at her with a sad expression.

“I will not tell Nafre but I feel it is wrong in doing that but I will not.” He said looking up.

Feelings overwhelmed me and I wanted to cry.

“The jackals took her. They took her to hurt you. They tore her apart and spread her blood everywhere to make you think she was dead. They sold her into slavery in Babylon.” I said softly.

Rage and pain consumed him and he stood up. He wanted to howl in his feelings but he kept it in.

“Why did you not come back? Why did you leave me?” he demanded.

“To keep the danger away from you, she saw you bloodied and near death. She saw the palace fall. She saw your father die in a horrible way.” I sobbed.

“I am sorry. Lay the babe down for now.” He said in a quiet command.

I laid Rina in her cradle and he came over and pulled me up. He held onto me tightly. He wanted more and he wanted me to remember everything. I had pulled various loose memories that I had in Egypt.

“Will you come to Egypt?” he asked.

“Why?” I asked in a tortured voice.

“Asuna I will never ask another thing of you. I am begging.” He said with heavy emotion.

“I need a wet nurse for Rina. Vlad will be angry.” I said sighing.

“Whatever! I am far older then he and he can kiss my backside. You are not his property.” He snapped.

“Let me return Rina to Romania. He does not like her far off.” I sighed again.

I swooped down and picked her up. I ported her and me to Buda. I walked into the library and he looked up and smiled. His face fell as he sensed my emotions.

“How long do you plan on being gone? I prefer if you feed her.” He said thinly.

“A day or two. I will explain when I return.” I said softly.

“You are mine! You no longer belong to the Egyptian. You are mine and do not forget that Asuna.” He said in a low tone.

I was seeing where he could be dangerous and his temper, which he rarely showed, could be frightening. I nodded and ported away. I met Shezmu at Shanghai. He took my hand and then ported us to Egypt. We were in Thebes at the old palace site. I was afraid of what I would see and braced myself. I was already picking up images.

“How do you want me to do this?” I asked.

“I do not know. How did you see things before?” he asked softly.

“Tamiko gave me a potion that had me relive it as if I was there.” I said trembling.

“Shall we call upon her?” Shezmu asked.

“This is too much Shezmu! You want me to relive it? Why? Why should I suffer the pain by myself?” I demanded.

“I need you to. I need to know what exactly happened to you! My heart was ripped from me that day! I wished for death and I felt you in Rome. Do this and as I said I shall never ask another thing.” He said desperately.

I nodded then ported us to Tamiko. She was already outside and handed me the potion. I closed my eyes and shuddered. I followed her inside and I drank the sweet brew. I grew dizzy and fell back. I felt Shezmu's hands upon me and I passed out.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I felt the hot sun rising and I managed to draw my leg up along my prince's bronze leg. He smiled in his sleep and I grinned. I sat up and looked down at his handsome face. My brown hair was braided at the moment and I lowered my lips to my prince's taught stomach. He groaned softly in his sleep and I began sucking on his skin.

“Akana!” he cried.

“You put Re to shame my dearest but do not tell him I said so.” I teased.

“What may I do for you my heart?” he asked me softly.

“Let me see. Lay there whilst I take you.” I said licking my lips.

“Please!” he smirked.

I moved the linen blanket and sank down on him. He released a soft moan and I cried out at the full feeling. I rotated my hips on him and he locked his eyes with mine.

“Akana. I love you.” He mumbled.

“I love you. By the goddess I love you too.” I sighed in pleasure.

I could not deny myself my own pleasure and I began grinding against him hard. He allowed me total freedom and near my completion I leaned over him and sank my fangs into his neck. I drank his blood and came undone. He too came undone and we held each other.

“Please wake me up again will you?” Shezmu teased me.

“Go back to sleep then. I have to get up and tend to our babes my love. Then I must attend the goddess and then maybe I can have you for lunch.” I said with a licentious grin.

“That sounds quite delightful.” He yawned.

“When do you leave again?” I asked softly.

“Tommorow.” He muttered.

“I understand. I shall say extra prayers for you.” I said holding back tears.

We had been mated for quite awhile and I loved him with every fiber of my being. I hated he was off at war so much but he was a magnificent warrior. I was weary and ready for peace. I went to my servants and they began dressing me. They put on a linen sheath dress and I wore a heavy gold collar necklace. They placed the headdress of Hathor on my head and I sighed softly. I lifted my head and thanked them. I left my chambers and went to my pups rooms.

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The palace was burning and I was running trying to find my sons and daughters. I saw the Pharaoh and he had blood all over him.

“Sire! Do you need help?” I asked quickly.

“No. Get the women and pups out of here. Do whatever you have to Akana.” He said flatly.

“My lord?” I asked frightened.

“Kill the jackals if you can.” He said handing me a sword.

“As you wish.” I said bowing.

“You are a credit daughter.” He said moving away and transforming.

I watched as he ran and I moved quickly. I moved into the throne room and what I saw made me throw up. Bodies were littered everywhere. I recognized many brothers and sisters of my mate. He would be devastated but I looked for my own pups.

“Judafre!” I screamed as I saw my eldest son.

He lifted his head weakly and I began crying.

“Mother! Help me! It hurts!” he cried as I came to his side.

I saw his belly had been ripped open by claws and his intestines were spilling out. I tried to calm myself but I was loosing my mind.

“Shhh I am here Judafre. Close your eyes baby boy. If Osiris calls you then it is alright to go.” I said trying not to scream.

“I hurt so bad. Mommy please!” he wept.

I cut my own wrist and pressed it to his mouth. I could control his pain as he died. He drank and I made the pain go away. He sighed softly and I watched him take his last breaths. I wept terribly and I did not sense the aura behind me. I felt a dagger in my back and I fell forward over the body of Judafre. I screamed for Shezmu but I knew it was a lost cause.

“You are the Crown Prince's bitch! Well then this shall be fun.” The jackal said cruelly.

“Where are my pups?” I shrieked.

“Dead. The oldest girl was such a good tight fuck! Now I wonder what your dog would do if I had you!” he chuckled.

Horror consumed me as I managed to crawl forward just a little. I felt the blade go in again and I screamed. He stabbed me over and over and I finally quit screaming. I watched as the body of Pharaoh Narmer was brought in and thrown as if so much rubbish. My lungs burned as they tried to get air and I hurt so badly that I could not think. I saw so many jackals milling about that I knew Thebes had fallen. I managed to crawl a little more and I saw Shezmu on the marble floor as well. I could not tell if he lived and my heart broke. He was too far away to see me if he could and I was bleeding to death from so many stab wounds. I felt a jackal haul me up and he looked at me in disgust.

“Well you ought to be in heaven you dumb blood drinking bitch.” He said sinisterly.

I could not speak and he put a blade to my throat. He sliced my neck wide open and I gasped. He threw me and I landed next to the bodies of two of Shezmu's sisters. They had been desecrated and I wished to die. I finally succumbed and hoped that I would see Shezmu in the afterlife.

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I groaned as I came to. I looked around and I was not in Thebes anymore. I could not believe I was not dead.

“Shhh you were hurt badly when I found you. My name is Eyal. Do you understand me?” a young man asked me in Hebrew.

“I know the tongue of the Hebrews.” I said closing my eyes.

“Do you know where you are?” he asked.

“Not in Egypt.” I said through clenched teeth.

“What is your name Egyptian?” he asked softly.

“I am…” I started to say.

I knew not who I was anymore. I was alone and in a foreign land. Everything that I had loved and treasured was past. I had watched a being that I had birthed from my own body die. I saw the one man that I loved more than my own soul lying on a floor as if he were nothing.

“I am Halima.” I said in a monotone.

“What happened that brought you here?” he asked.

“You tell me Hebrew? I know not where here is. I was in Thebes when it fell.” I said fighting back tears.

“You are in Babylon.” He said softly.

I shielded my daemon aura and stared at him. He did not seem to know that he too was a daemon. He acted mortal enough. I laid my head back and stared up at the ceiling of a lavish dwelling.

“How did I come into your presence?” I asked.

“The truth be told you I saw you at the market. I paid for your freedom.” He said honestly.

“Well I was a commodity. How very interesting. It seems you own me Hebrew what do you intend to do with me?” I asked.

“I told you that I paid for your freedom. I do not own you.” He said bristling.

“You have money?” I asked very uninterested.

“I do well enough. What do you remember?” he asked me.

“Nothing. I remember nothing as I am nothing.” I said in a tone void of emotion.

“If you like you can stay here until you are well. Again my name is Eyal.” He said standing and bowing.

I watched as he left and I began sobbing. I intended to gather my strength back and end my life.

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I watched Eyal the Hebrew work in his garden. It seemed one thing he enjoyed above anything. I barely spoke to him and he was kind to me. I could tell he was fabulously wealthy and kind to boot. He did not keep much company and it reinforced that he was a daemon. I could not believe he did know what he was. I refused to ruin his illusion and continued to watch him. I knew it unnerved him but he did not say much about it.

“Do you require assistance?” I called out.

“No. Thank you though.” He said softly.

“Where is your family Eyal the Hebrew?” I asked.

“My parents died when I was young. I know of no other family. I was raised within my tribe.” He commented as he pulled weeds.

“No wife or children?” I asked.

“No. I prefer to be alone.” He said bluntly.

“Why did you buy me then?” I asked astonished.

“Do you not understand that I do not own you? I have papers that say you are free. I can arrange a caravan back to Egypt if you wish.” He said flatly.

“Well you paid for me then you should get your gold's worth do you not think?” I asked bluntly.

“What happened that has you so hateful?” he asked.

“I am dead to this world Hebrew. My body lives on when my soul should be already with Osiris and Isis.” I said closing my eyes.

“I do not know your gods. My people believe in one God.” He said coming closer.

“How very progressive of them.” I said snidely.

“I am not here to judge. You were badly hurt and I could not see you dying in that rat hole they had you in.” he shrugged.

I was angry and filled with such burning malice that I wanted to feel something besides the pain. I stood up and unhooked the tunic I wore. It fell to my feet and I turned.

“Is my back littered with scars from their blades?” I demanded.

“Yes.” He managed to breathe out.

“You prefer women?” I asked softly.

“Yes of course.” He said offended.

“You are rather naive are you not?” I asked in an amused tone.

“How do you figure that Halima?” he demanded.

I turned and leaned forward. I brushed my lips across his. I got a good look at him and he was quite striking. He had incredible black hair and warm brown eyes, they reminded me of my beloved and I pressed my lips against his firmly. He seemed surprised but he did not respond. I pulled back and looked up into his brown eyes.

“Are you sure you prefer women?” I asked amused.

“You are obviously not in a place to be doing such things and I am not a whoremonger. You have been through enough.” He said firmly.

He impressed me and I leaned down and pulled up my tunic. I walked away and left him to his garden.

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

I was spying the young male uppyr and he was dealing business with the Babylonians. I had come to like him when he would talk and he was gentle. I began to wonder if I should tell him what he was because that seemed the main reason he did not interact as much as he could. I stole away every night and killed domestic beasts to satiate my hunger. I was determined to make him rut with me. His refusal made me want him all the more. I was sure Shezmu was dead as I felt nothing but a painful void in regards to him. I had taken on the persona of my new name and Akana was dead.

“Hebrew!” I called after him.

“I have a name Egyptian.” He said rudely.

“Fair enough Eyal the Hebrew.” I said sweetly.

“What may I do for you?” he asked.

“I want you to tell me about yourself.” I said.

“There is nothing to say. Why not tell me about you?” he asked arching a brow.

“There is nothing to say.” I retorted.

He stared at me and I growled. I pulled him forward and began kissing him deeply. He was stunned as I delved my tongue into his mouth. I tasted blood and I knew he had recently fed. He knew he needed blood but he did not know the why. He slowly began to warm up and began returning my caress. I released his lips and stared into his eyes. I did not give him a chance to pull away from it. I undid his long tunic and his hands were over mine to stop me.

“No. Please I cannot do this.” He groaned.

“Why?” I asked him.

“This is wrong.” He rasped out as my fingers touched his male flesh.

“This is wrong? I am unmarried as are you.” I said with a smile.

“What are you doing?” He asked as I lightly stroked his member.

He closed his eyes and he was trying to fight his own desire. I wanted to drink his blood but I kept a tight rein in on my mind and my blood lust.

“Thank you for buying my freedom Eyal the Hebrew.” I whispered in his ear.

“You are welcome Halima.” He moaned.

“We Egyptians accept what our Gods have given us. Pleasures of the flesh are to be enjoyed and shared.” I stated as I ran my other hand up his muscled abdomen.

“I am not Egyptian.” He groaned.

“You want this! Why fight it?” I asked.

“I am better off alone. Halima release me.” He commanded.

I nipped his lips and then sucked on his lower one. He wrapped his hands around my upper arms and I noticed he kept his claws short and blunted. Anger ripped through me that he should suffer amongst mortals. I took the decision away from him and slid down his body. I without thought took his aching member into my mouth. He cried out and groaned louder. I moved my head and created a tight tunnel with my mouth. Still he fought his body and I grabbed his firm backside and shoved him forward gently. He began thrusting of his own violation and I growled loudly. I spied his face and his eyes were wide. Eyal began straining badly and I decided that I would finish him with him inside of me. I slowly withdrew his member and kept a firm grip around his girth.

“Take me as you want. I care not how you do it but I need this.” I said bluntly.

He looked stricken and I released his staff and he picked me up. He took me to his room and laid me on a large bed. He was beautiful in his passion and need. I opened my thighs and he looked down at me. He muttered forgive me softly and entered me hard. I arched my body and met his hips. His face was intense and he moaned softly as he moved against me. He needed to feed and this act was not helping either one of us. My blood would taste different to him but I turned my head to the side and pulled his head down to my throat. I was trying to give him hints. He groaned as if in pain and I felt his fangs on the skin.

“Please! Please just do it!” I cried.

“I…” he started to say.

I closed off my mind so I would not try and join with him in that way. His fangs pierced my throat and I moaned louder then him. I climaxed hard as I felt the sublime bliss that the bite of my kind could cause. I felt him stiffen and release. It felt wonderful to enjoy something or anything. I shut out the memories and decided that this young Hebrew uppyr would be my lover.

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I watched him as he was trying to hide. He had seemed to come to life after we had made love. I never questioned nor did I ask about the blood letting. We were playing at hide and seek and I knew where he was.
”Why not come out Eyal. I know you are behind the fountain.” I said in a light tone.

“How do you do that?” he asked coming out.

“Do what my delicious lover?” I purred.

“Always find me or sense me almost.” He said in awe.

“I guess I just do. Come you swore you would show me the Hanging Gardens.” I said pulling him to me.

“Then follow.” He laughed.

I followed him out of his estate and we walked towards the famous gardens. Babylon was full of gardens and it seemed that my lover was not the only one who enjoyed his gardening. I could tell he was rather young and was only sixty or so. I on the other hand was closer to a millennium. I had served as a priestess of Hathor for a very long time before Shezmu and I had mated. He had taken me as his partner more than two and half centuries before. I shut out the memories of my former life and concentrated on the delightful young male who brought my mind peace. I still intended to die but I would need help. I had lived too long to die easily. I looked at him fondly and forced myself not to fall in love with him. I would reserve my heart for Shezmu alone. I was praying to see my beloved mate again in the afterlife. I hoped that someone had survived to bury him properly. I thought on Judafre and Nafre. I thought on Ahkmet and Bastat and I thought on my baby Nahut. Tears slipped from my eyes and Eyal looked at me concerned. I began sobbing remembering watching my barely thirty year old pup call me mommy.

“Halima! Please let me help you.” He said softly.

“Help me to die! Please.” I sobbed harder.

“I cannot do that! It is a sin against God and nature.” He said quietly.

“I should have died in Thebes. Does your God punish? I am being punished for something I did not do well. I could not stop them. I had to watch Judafre die!” I said screaming.

“Who was Judafre?” he asked me.

“My son.” I sobbed.

“Halima please talk to me.” He said holding me.

We were being stared at and I shut my eyes. They had to be crimson by now and I willed myself to calm down. I was weak and I could not save my family. I had failed Shezmu and his entire family. I knew I could expose myself as a daemon and the mortals would panic. They would seek my death because I was evil in their eyes. Enough forceful wounds and starvation would end my suffering. I thought hard on what I needed to do and calm overcame me again.

“Thank you Eyal. I am calm again. All shall be well.” I said smiling.

I intended to cause an uproar and I would finally join my beloved.

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

I gasped loudly and came awake. I was drenched in sweat and looked over at Shezmu. I was shaking badly and Tamiko handed me a cup of water.

“Our pups.” I said softly.

“Yes little one what about them?” he asked softly.

“Judafre, Nafre, Ahkmet, Bastat, and Nahut.” I said shaking harder.

“Yes.” He said closing his eyes.

“Nahut?” I asked in a near shriek.

“I wish I could tell you. He was never found.” He said standing and crying himself.

“You found Judafre?” I asked.

“Yes. He was buried properly.” Shezmu stated.

I looked over at Tamiko and she looked stricken. I had thought Lady Sorami's past had been painful. Akana's had been akin to a Greek tragedy. Fury flowed through me and I walked up to Shezmu and grabbed his arm. I ported us away to Egypt and I needed to see things with my new eyes so to speak. I cut off everyone brutally and I pulled Shezmu into a searing embrace. I was not sure where we were in the ancient land but I pushed him against an old pillar and devoured him. Desperate and passionate was the theme as well as fierce need. Shezmu seemed to keep his wits more than I and he pushed me back slightly.

“Little one this is not what we need to do. I swore I only wished to find out the truth.” He said holding me tightly to him.

“You want to know the truth? I killed myself to be with you! That is the truth.” I growled.

“What are you saying?” he asked shocked.

“I thought you dead. I thought to join you in the afterlife. There was nothing! There was not a damn thing and there was no you.” I cried.

He was horrified and I had to feel him. I tore through his ku and he looked shocked at my behavior. I pulled him down and I mounted him. Both of us cried out. I was still too sore from my recent birth but I needed to feel him. Fury held me in its grip but it was not as Shezmu. I was angry that my pups should have been ripped from me and that Shezmu had been torn from me as well. I suddenly stopped and looked down at him in passion. He knew this was not what I physically needed to do but need stole through him as well. I slowly climbed off of him and I leaned my head over his erect member and gently licked along it.

“Asuna!” he growled.

“Hai?” I asked with a smirk upon my lips.

“What are you doing?” he asked then he groaned as I took him all into my mouth and throat.

I wanted him to loose it as he had when we had been in Jining. He was so beautiful in his glances and moans. I tightened on him and quit moving.

“You are killing me! I cannot take this.” He groaned.

I released a low humming growl and he thrust his hips in response. I shut my eyes and let my yoki flow through him lightly and my former mate nearly screamed into the Egyptian night. I would not allow him to complete as I intended to make up for lost time. I realized how well I knew his body and I slowly released his staff. I licked his stones slowly and he looked at me. Desire and love were in his eyes but conscience was as well. It angered me and I took one testicle into my mouth seeing at how much he enjoyed it last time. I tasted it and rolled it with my tongue. He was actually thrashing beneath me and I did not ease up at all. I released the one and then laved the other with attention as well. I grasped his member and stroked him with measured and even movements.

“Stop torturing me Asuna!” he growled but immediately he began panting.

I looked at him and I stopped rolling his stone in my mouth. I pulled it out with an audible pop. He was shaking and I gave him a dazzling smile. I stopped stroking him and I ran the tips of my fingers over his velvet like girth. His chest was heaving and I admired my lover's great conscience and self control.

“Shezmu.” I breathed his name.

“Yes?” he asked through clenched teeth.

“I am going to do something and I want you to trust me as you always have.” I said in a soft voice.

He looked at me funny and I grew bold. I knew this was my knowledge of the past. I lightly ran my claws over his perineum and he gasped. I smirked down at him and he was going to become mindless. I suggestively sucked on my own finger and bit off my claw. His eyes were stained with crimson and I ran my fingertips over his perineum again. I slipped a finger into his backside and his eyes widened as I found his male spot that would drive him over the edge. I took him into my mouth suddenly and he actually snarled loudly. I watched as he fought to maintain his form. He was begging me to let him come and I closed my eyes as I continued to massage his own nodule of nerves and I bobbed my head. He began thrusting harder and continued moaning and begging. I saw him near his completion and I encouraged him with lips and tongue to thrust harder.

“Asuna!” he yelled out as he stiffened and reacted with a violent release.

I took it all in and I felt his body finally give out. I took me finger out and I slid up his body. I kissed him lazily and applied telekinetic pressure to his groin. He moaned loudly under me and I mounted him again. He was erect and he slid into me. I released a strangled sob and his eyes focused on me. He managed to sit up and his mouth met mine. Our hands were tangled in each other's hair as we moved slowly against the other. I ripped my lips from his and I wrapped my lips around his jugular and bit down viciously. He groaned beneath me as I drank his blood. My body reacted and a powerful release took me. I released his throat and his chest was heaving and he in turn sank his fangs in deeply as well. We continued to give and take I shattered again. He released my throat and began placing feverish caresses along my neck and I leaned back just a bit to give him opportunity to nip and suckle one peak then the other. He whined and suckled me harder. He began thrusting harder as well and he bit my aeorola lightly. Beautiful pleasure stole through me as waves upon waves of ecstasy took me into a blinding abyss. He laid me on my back and let loose completely. We were one again after so many long years of lonely separation. I knew and he knew, this was home and this was love that truly transcended the millenniums. I convulsed around him again and he held my hips as he his warmth of his seed and his soul flowed. He collapsed against me and I wrapped my legs around his hips.

“You can say it Shezmu. I remember it all. I remember you coming to me in the Temple. I remember you taking me as your mate.” I sighed into his neck.

“Asuna little one.” He said softly.

“I want you to say it Shezmu!” I demanded.

“Always together and always as one.” He murmured softly.

“Hai.” I said.

“I need to see Nafre.” I said closing my eyes.

“What purpose does it serve?” he asked me gently.

“She is my daughter! I was reborn because my family was stolen from me! I will see my daughter!” I yelled.

I allowed him to slide out of me and he fell to his back. He looked over at me and he smiled.

“That was the most beautiful joining I have ever felt from you.” He stated softly.

“Together for more than two hundred fifty years I should say I should know a few things.” I said crawling over to him.

“You really remember everything?” he asked stunned.

“Hai. I remember how you took me in the temple compound after your father's speech. That is when Judafre was conceived.” I smirked.

“By the Gods you truly are you.” He said totally stunned.

“Do you think you shall escape me my love? I promised you a son and a son I shall give you.” I said in a seductive tone.

“Asuna listen to me.” He started to say.

“Hai? I am whole now. I am no longer missing that piece! Do you understand Shezmu?” I asked.

“No.” he said confused.

“I am me but I remember a thousand years that I lived. I want to feel your pup within my womb. I want to feel life that we created. I want to see my son that I watch die. Did you not find Bastat and Ahkmet?” I asked.

“I did. Bastat is buried next to Judafre and Ahkmet lived on for awhile. He never seemed right after not finding Nahut. He too disappeared.” He said fighting back his own feelings.

“Take me to Nafre. Shezmu please.” I said holding his face.

“You are different Asuna. I feel you as though you are indeed Akana.” He said closing his eyes.

“I am Akana and Sorami. I am all three and more. You need to dress my love. I love to see you nude but I do not think Nafre will wish it.” I laughed.

He smirked and pulled on his ku and pien-fu. I dressed in my hanfu as well and I knew he was holding back asking to see my memories. I kept my Tsuchigumo mates at bay as well as Eyal. He took my hand and ported us to Jining. Nafre was tending her grandpups and she looked up. She sensed it immediately. She knew that her mother's soul dwelt within me. She knew and she dropped the bowl she was holding.

“Mother?” she asked with a shaking voice.

“I remember being your mother hai. I am and was Akana.” I said holding her face.

“Father?” she asked stunned.

“It is her. I know not how.” He said looking down at me.

“Information surfaced and the draw he and I felt is understood now. I am here for you Nafre always. I know not how you feel about this but I need you in my life. I need to know you and love you.” I said pulling her into a hug.

“I do not understand. Mother I do not understand.” She cried into my shoulder.

“It will be well. I intend to find out what happened to Nahut. The gods have given me much power in this life and I intend to use it.” I said.

“Little one please slow down.” Shezmu said.

“No! I lost everything Shezmu! I watched our son die and beg me to save him and all I could do is ease his suffering. I saw two of your sisters ripped open and gutted. I watched your father take his last breath! Our baby was not found and that means our baby may have lived on. You will not stop me as I am the ruler in this life!” I said fiercely.

“You are reeling my heart from everything. You will throw yourself head first into calamity.” He said gently.

“What more calamity could I suffer Shezmu? No more! Nafre come to Shanghai in a week my darling. I want to know it all.” I said jerking away from Shezmu.

“Asuna you are not acting yourself at all!” he said following me.

“I am acting like myself with my whole soul intact! Do you know what it feels like to feel as though you are a freak of nature? Do you know how it feels to look upon yourself in utter hatred and contempt?” I asked him.

“Yes I do. I lived it until I felt you in Rome. This is not you beloved.” He said flatly.

“It is me. I am tired of Naraku seeing me as some kind of monster. I can explain that I am normal! You are mine Shezmu, do not fool yourself. You were mine when your soul recognized mine. So hai this is me. I want the son you said you wanted to. I want you in my bed where you belong.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“I want that too but it is not as simple when you and I were mated the first time. You marked me back there.” He said softly.

“I know I did. You marked me in return. I am glad to have it and thrilled. Now I intend to look for our baby girl. Are you coming?” I asked him.

He nodded yes and I took his hand and ported us to the Western Palace. Eyal was going to go through the roof but he would keep his temper if I had any say.

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I was reeling badly but I was determined to find more answers. I had Yasu look at me and assure myself of my reproductive health. I was fine but he snapped at me for rutting too soon. I ignored him as usual. I walked back into my chambers and Shezmu slept upon my futon. My loins stirred and I drank him in. I settled next to him and I stripped out of my clothes. I pulled the coverlet from his body and I began pressing my body to his. His eyes opened and he smiled at me. I said nothing as I my fingers pinched and rolled his male peaks. His breath caught and I was mesmerized.

“Again? You want me again?” he said softly.

“Hai. Again and again. I am ready to show you if you are.” I said softly.

“Amongst your exquisite torture? I think I prefer the torture. You still remember how to work me.” He groaned.

“Hai and you drove me to mindless pleasure before I remembered. I like being able to make you climax several times my darling. I love to see you beg me as you join your soul to mine.” I said as I began to work his member.

“Asuna.” He mumbled.

“It pleases me you truly remember who I am my love but I want you to remember who I was too. Do I bring you pleasure?” I asked in a heavily seductive voice.

“By the Gods yes! Please no teasing my dearest.” He whined softly.

“You like this? Tell me you will fill me with your seed.” I said licking along his ear.

“Yes! Gods faster please Asuna.” He said burying his nose into my neck.

I pressed my body flush to his and stared down at him. I licked along his lips and I closed my eyes and became part of him and within him. He seemed suspended as I lay on my back and waited on him to claim me. His eyes were red and he slid down my body. He kissed my inner thighs and pressed his thumb to my nub of nerves. I cried out and my bottom arched. He was consuming me spiritually and working my body in time to his passionate consuming of my soul.

“Shezmu wedja.” I murmured.

He looked at me and his eyes clouded over with love and passion. He slid up my body and he lowered his lips to mine. He kissed me and slipped two fingers into my center. He was murmuring and I made him look at me.

“I am what you are this life. Take me in our natural states.” I cried out softly.

“Yes.” He groaned.

He pulled me up and I reached over and got my dressing gown. I was burning and aching badly as I put on my gown. He slipped his ku on and he pulled me out of the rooms and down the hall. I felt my sire's aura and I turned.

“My lord.” I giggled.

“Asuna?” he asked staring at me.

“Later my lord. I love you chichi!” I said laughing as Shezmu dragged me away.

I laughed loudly as he dragged me to the grounds. He was pushing me gently backwards and kissing me. I pulled away and smiled. I changed form and he followed suit. I bared my neck to him immediately and I felt his canines pierce my throat a little. I was lost in feeling as we again joined. I reveled in the emotions and feelings as I felt him release. I began whining softly as I too climaxed. He managed to flop down beside me and he was panting. I licked his face and he grunted. I turned and saw my sire in the distance and I got up and padded over. He looked up at me and I leaned down and I licked his hand.

“I cannot path so you need to change.” He commanded.

I yipped and he leveled me a stare and shook his head.

“Get some clothing on and I wish to speak to you.” He said turning on his heel.

I whined and he looked at me raising a brow.

“No I will not wait. Fornicate later!” he snapped.

I barked again and he turned supremely annoyed. I licked his hand again and he sighed.

“Your aura is a little different.” He said bluntly.

He took off his outer haori and put it at my feet and turned his back to me. I changed and put it on. He handed me his obi and I wrapped it around my waist.

“What is going on?” he asked.

“I know who I am now my lord, that is all. I am alright and I am actually okay this time.” I said softly.

“What do you mean?” he asked confused.

“I will explain it all soon. I have things that need doing but I am much more level headed now.” I said smiling.

“Shezmu-sama?” he asked bluntly.

“Is where he belongs. He is my alpha and omega.” I said looking over my shoulder.

“You lived before your great aunt.” He said bluntly.

“Hai I did and I was mated to Shezmu-sama in that life.” I said softly.

“I want to know why the Kamis keep messing in your life!” he snapped.

“I do not know my lord but I am content at the moment.” I said bowing.

“You are telling me you were mated to a three thousand year old inu.” My sire stated bluntly.

“Hai I was and am. My lord it is long and complicated and I will share with mother so she can show you.” I said bowing my head.

He looked at me thoughtfully and he sighed. He bowed and turned on his heel and left. I sauntered over to Shezmu and ran my hands along his silky fur.

“You are so stunning my love. I have not seen your brother since I have recovered my memories.” I laughed.

He looked down at me and I smiled at him. I lowered his muzzle and kissed his nose. He barked and I nodded.

“You know you can change if you wish or do you prefer to hunt?” I asked.

He yipped and I nodded.

“I have to face the music so to speak and deal with my Tsuchigumo mates and Eyal. Can you accept all this?” I asked.

He changed form and pressed me against a tree and smiled down at me.

“I am Egyptian am I not? Hell you are in a way too. Did you still want to share your memories?” he asked.

“It is painful Shezmu. I warn you that it will be difficult to see.” I sighed.

“I think I can handle it after having lived it.” He said gently.

I nodded and I turned his jaw and slowly sank my fangs into his neck. I showed him everything and I felt his pain. He physically reacted by pulling away and throwing up. I felt for him but he knew the truth as he wanted. I went to him and rubbed his back.

“I would have been better off not seeing that.” He said as tears ran down his face.

“It is since long past but do you understand why I wish to find what happened to Nahut?” I asked gently.

“Yes and I will gladly help you.” He said holding my face.

“I need to tend my pups now but meet me in Luxor in two days.” I said kissing his lips.

“Yes.” He nodded.

He pulled me to him and crushed me tightly and it felt so incredible to be in his arms. He slowly pulled away then ported away. I lifted my head and ported to the hot spring and bathed.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I appeared in Sendai and found Ishin and Naraku arguing over politics. They both looked up and looked relieved.

“Hello.” I said.

“Inu.” Naraku said playfully.

“Asuna.” Ishin stated.

“Come boys. I have something for you.” I said smirking seductively.

Ishin's eyes widened as my aura was just a little different but my sheer tone was also oozing sex. I was going to show them everything from my two previous lives and let them sort it out. I would enjoy the process immensely too. I ported to our shared chambers and waited on them. They appeared as calmly as they could but they were eager for my truths so to speak.

“Well now, where should we start?” I asked.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I went the following day to Buda and I had left two very happy kumo. Naraku had been stunned and pleased that I shared the whole truth. He had seemed to understand so much more now. He truly did not mind that Shezmu was in my life. I came into the castle and followed his aura. I found him in his room with Rina asleep on the bed beside him. I quietly picked up my daughter and put her to my breast. I sat in the arm chair and waited for Eyal to stir. I fed her and looked down at her and smiled softly. My lover and mate rolled over and saw me. He smiled happily and I smiled back.

“Good morning.” I said softly.

“Morning.” He smiled.

“I remember everything.” I said quietly.

“Remember what exactly?” he inquired.

“Why did you pay for my freedom?” I asked.

“I see.” He said sitting up.

“Well?” I asked.

“Your aura was different and you were broken. I could not stand to see you suffer.” He shrugged.

“So you had compassion for me.” I said smiling.

“I suppose. You were pretty as well. If I am being honest you had a pretty face and I liked to look at you.” He said with a sad smile.

“Hn.” I mumbled /

“Now you answer my questions. Who were you really?” he demanded.

“I was Princess Akana. I was the mate and wife to Prince Shezmu.” I said honestly.

“The mutt still lives.” He said in irritation.

“I thought he had died. The palace in Thebes had been sacked and I saw him from a distance and he looked dead. I had five pups with him. Judafre, Nafre, Ahkmet, Bastat, and Nahut.” I whispered.

“How long were you two together before the tragedy?” he asked.

“Two hundred and sixty four years.” I smiled.

“So basically you used me in Babylon. You did not tell me what I was but you allowed me to drink from you. Were you even full uppyr?” he asked in a pained voice.

“Hai I was. I was also near a thousand summers.” I said closing my eyes.

“Good God! You are the one that started the riot! You had to have severe trauma to pass on.” He accused.

“You surmise wisely.” I said gently.

“I was falling in love with you! You go and kill yourself because I would not. Damn Asuna you were a bitch then too.” He growled.

“Imagine watching Jarek with his intestines spilling out and in terrible pain. Imagine what it is like knowing all you could do was ease his suffering. Imagine this sweet baby just disappearing.” I said defensively.

“I am so sorry. It must have been terrible reliving it.” He sighed.

“Hai it was. I did not use you Eyal. I debated whether to tell you or not but you were still devoted to your religion at that point. Who was I to shatter your faith?” I asked.

“The first woman I could be myself with. The first woman I did not hide anything from. Well we have come full circle. I am the older one and you are the young one. So you are leaving.” He said coldly.

“Excuse me?” I asked.

“Us you are leaving like you did before?” he said in a frigid tone.

“No. I love you or is that still not good enough for you?” I asked archly.

“Oh I am not the one that committed suicide to get away from me.” He said standing.

“You are being an ass. No I am not leaving us. You are stuck with me so to speak. Kiss me.” I demanded.

He leaned down and meant to peck my lips but I caught him in a deeper one. He groaned softly and it became intense. I opened my mind and showed him who Halima had really been. I showed him what his relationship had meant to her. He pulled back and looked away.

“You were falling in love too.” He whispered fiercely.

“Hai I was. You accept Naraku.” I stated bluntly.

“You wish to me accept the Egyptian. I guess I will learn. I have my life here and we have our own separate identity when you are here. If he stays away from my lands then fine I guess.” He said a little tightly.

“He rivals your power.” I said bluntly.

“As eloquent as ever my darling. Da he does and frankly I do not want to deal with him. He is something quite foreign to my understanding. What about the baby?” he asked.

“I want to find her. Please understand.” I said softly.

“I do. In your wanderings I would like you to come home and maybe visit?” he asked in a hoarse whisper.

“I love you.” I said capturing his lips again.

He groaned softly and held the back of my head. Rina cried and he took her from me. I smiled and he looked back.

“Give us a few years but she needs a brother.” He said sweetly.

“You can carry him.” I retorted laughing.

“No. You look quite fetching pregnant but I know for a fact you have been told that before. Come home soon my love.” He said as he took her to the library.

I settled in the arm chair and I needed to prepare for meeting Shezmu in Luxor. I had to know what happened to Nahut. I had to know if she too perished.