InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ From Whence the Shadows Dwell ( Chapter 81 )

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

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

From Whence the Shadows Dwell

I was in Changsha feeding my girls as Geming and Yuudai argued over the war. I listened with half of my mind as I read reports from the fronts. Ang Chi was furious that Sheng had betrayed us. My generals were snapping and snarling until I put my hand up.

“Chuusin please!” Yuudai snapped.

“I am listening but do not underestimate Sheng please?” I asked.

“Hai!” he growled.

Yuzuna ran in and beamed up at Yuudai. He smiled down at her and picked her up. She played with his silver hair and laid her head on his chest.

“Is Yuudai good?” I asked her sweetly.

“Hai. He tell me stories about chichi when he was little.” She said softly.

“Hai he is a good big brother.” I said looking up at him smiling.

“This is all nice Lady Asuna but can we get back to planning. Sheng attacked Qinghai!” Geming growled.

“Changming repelled him well Geming. You need to calm down and think rationally.” I commanded.

“My foster sire's lands are being plundered and I am to calm down?” Geming snapped.

“Hai as they are my lands now Geming. Thank you both as I need to put the girls to sleep. Come Yuzuna and take a nap with your sisters.” I commanded.

“Hai.” She said jumping down.

She followed me and I laid Wen and Wenling in their large cradle. Yuzuna lay next to them on a small bed. I kissed her head and we said a prayer for Yuuta together. I walked back into the hall and Yuudai was there. He fell in step beside me and I looked at him.

“You may officially take custody of her.” I said quietly.

“Thank you chuusin. I do love her fiercely.” He said lifting my chin.

“I know. Do not think I ever stopped loving you but I had moved on as you would have wished. There are no conflicted loyalties in the West anymore.” I said meeting his eyes.

“What are you saying?” he asked raising a silver brow.

“Whilst your sire lived I felt as if I could not choose. I loved you both. I know you do not understand but you were both so good and so wonderful.” I said looking down.

“You are coming back to me?” he asked.

“Hai. We will take vows before the inugami. I need to remember who I am not who I was.” I said meeting his eyes.

“Chuusin.” He said as his eyes simmered.

“I will be home soon and we will do it in the palace before all.” I stated.

“Hai.” He said kissing my forehead.

I pulled away and I looked back.

“I know Naraku loved Ken'ichi after I died.” He said.

“He did very much. He always did and his death affected him as badly as Nori's did. Naraku has taken a concubine. I do not even care.” I said unemotionally.

“Why?” he asked.

“Because I am gone so much.” I shrugged.

“I have never not loved you.” He said.

“I know.” I smiled at him.

I walked on and I ported away. Quon was so busy dealing with Hunan and his lands in the north that we barely saw each other at the moment. Ruolan was due to give birth soon and I was anxious. I was in Sendai to coordinate with Aya and Bihua at the moment. I had managed not to see Nobu for days and I was relieved at the break. I walked into the barracks; Aya and Bihua were yelling at the other.

“Please tell this arrogant numbskull where to shove his conceit!” Aya snarled.

“Bihua please listen to Aya.” I sighed.

“Oh General Aya you are but a babe.” Bihua stated.

“Will you two listen to the other?” I asked in exasperation.

“Mate me!” Bihua said to Aya.

“What?” she snapped.

“Mate me.” He demanded.

“Deluded idiot. You are recluse and not worth my time!” she snapped.

I watched in humor as Bihua grabbed Aya and pressed her against the wall. I slipped from the room to give the two warriors time alone.

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

“Unhand me!” Aya hissed.

“No! Not until you consent to be my mate.” He said in her ear.

“I do not even like you!” Aya snapped.

“Mating does not have to be about love Aya. It can be about lust.” He chuckled.

“I do not like you!” she repeated.

“You think me handsome. I have heard it in your head.” He purred.

“You are handsome but how many ugly kumo you know fool?” she demanded.

“None. The Gods gave our humanoid forms pretty faces.” He laughed.

“If you do not unhand me then I shall rip your legs from your thorax!” she snapped.

He laughed and hiked up her kimono. She stared at him in horror as he joined with her. She clawed at his back and he was right; she wanted him but she also could not stand him for any length of time.

“Say it!” he demanded.

“No!” she growled.

Her body reacted to his venom and she growled out. He was moving hard as she snarled out.

“I will have you Aya. You will be mine and bear me more young.” He cooed in her ear.

“Fuck you!” she hissed.

“You already are.” He stated breathing roughly in her ear.

Her body went rigid as the sublime stole through her. Her legs quivered around him and he pulled back before he released. She put her legs down and they trembled. She slapped him hard and moved to get away from him. He picked her up and fazed out to her chambers. He ripped her kimono from her and threw it. He laid her on the futon and lowered his head to core. Aya was unable to speak as she was the aggressor normally. Her eyes widened as he did amazing things with his mouth and tongue. She really could not stand him but as a lover she could handle him. He slid up her body and smirked down at her.

“You are a very perfect woman Aya. So strong and commanding.” He purred.

“See now you can quit talking.” She growled.

“Why?” he smirked.

“Your trap dribbles Bihua. You are good at this and it does not require speech!” she hissed.

He rolled her so she was astride and he grinned wider.

“Then make me quiet woman.” He said slyly.
She growled and leaned back. She took his sac in her fingers and rolled them as she moved on him. The arrogant male hissed in pleasure as she worked him. She smirked in satisfaction at finally shutting him up. She stuck her claws near his groin and released her venom. He bucked his hips in response and began moaning for her. She was pleased with herself and continued to grind into him as he bucked wildly. He suddenly sat up and held her closely as they moved.

“I want you!” he growled.

“No.” she snapped.

“Mine!” he hissed loudly.

“I said no!” she snapped in reply.

He grabbed her hips and began moving her harder and she suddenly mewled as he hit her cervix. One hand reached behind her and held her neck as he attacked her mouth. He dipped into her mind and she snarled. She ripped her lips away and gasped.

“I said no! No Bihua!” she growled out.

“You will submit!” he snapped.

“No!” she said gasping as he laid her back and pounded into her with force.

He forced open her mental shields and she tried to fight it. Her body arched as he stroked her soul. Aya never allowed such intimacies and it was not her to be laid bare before anyone. She was the protector and the warrior. She had finished raising her brother and adored only him. She screamed suddenly and he bit the base of her throat. She did not register that he had made her climax or the fact that he had taken her against her will as a mate. He held her tightly as he too climaxed. She slowly came back to herself and she was furious. He refused to let her go and she became a snarling mess.

“Get out of me!” she said gouging him with her claws.

“I will when I feel like it. I have been sick of you sashaying your beautiful posterior in front of me and taunting me. That is what you did and you know it!” he growled in her ear.

“It did not give you the right to mate me!” she snapped.

“Yes it did! I am not funnel Aya and my species the males have killed their females.” He said in an angry tone.

“I am funnel and I will not be subjugated by any male!” she hissed.

“You will by this one. If you harm my babe then I will kill you.” He said with reddened eyes.

“You bastard!” she said finally scrambling off of him.

“My mate died a decade ago and was only able to bear me one son. You will bear me another.” He said standing.

“Get out!” she screamed.

“I will kill you if you hurt my youngling.” He threatened.

“I will kill you if you ever dare touch me again!” she hissed.

“Sorry lover. I intend to take you as often as I can.” He said laughing.

He gathered his clothes and left her chambers. She was stunned and suddenly nervous. She took off to Nobu's rooms and pounded on the door.

“Brother! Nobu! Damnit man open the door!” she cried.

He slid open the door and he looked bleary eyed. He pulled her in and scratched his head.

“Aya? Do you know what time it is? What is wrong?” he asked.

“That recluse! He did things! Check me please?” she asked.

“What? What did he do?” Nobu said coming awake.

“Coerced me into rutting. He did not rape me but he forced a melding.” She said shaking.

He laid his big sister on the examination futon and she opened the yukata. He pressed his ear to her belly and he was shocked. His sister had sworn to never mate and never have younglings. She had drunkenly professed that she did not want to leave them orphans.

“Aya, sister he got you with child.” Nobu said in anger.

“I want him punished!” she screamed.

Nobu pulled her up and she stormed to Ishin's chambers. Anger was coursing through her and she felt hatred at the moment. She knocked on her lord's door and Ishin pulled it open. She actually had shed tears and Ishin looked astonished.

“Lord Ishin, I am sorry and I know it is late. Bihua got too full of himself and forced things upon me.” She snapped out.

“He did what?” Ishin said in fury.

“He said if I rid myself then he would kill me. I do not want younglings my lord.” She said wiping away angry tears.

“What happened Aya?” Ishin asked.

“We were arguing and I allowed us to rut. I cannot stand him but it happened. He forced my mind open after I told him no.” she stated.

“Lady Asuna is in the castle. She will deal with him as he refuses my rule.” Ishin sighed.

“Fine! He will not touch me in such away again!” she hissed and walked away.

Ishin sighed and he was ready to kill the recluse leader himself. He did not care if he had known Ayana. He dressed formally and went in search of his mate. She had withdrawn again and he had no true idea why.

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

I was plotting on a large map of Asia of the encounters with Sheng and Panyu when Ishin walked in. I had withdrawn from all my mates at the moment and I was concentrating on war.

“Bihua attacked Aya.” He said bluntly.

I looked up and growled in anger.

“Do you know where he went?” I asked.

“He went back to Siam. She is pregnant and it is well known that Aya has never wanted babes.” Ishin sighed.

“Why would she when she was left to raise Nobu as a youngling herself?” I asked.

“Exactly.” Ishin sighed.

“I will deal with him now.” I said straightening.

“What has happened to us?” he asked.

“Nothing Ishin. I am just trying to remember who I am. I got lost in ancient memories that have not a damn thing to do with my current life. I am not intimate with anyone right now so do not fret. Naraku has Akane to play with now.” I said shrugging.

“He and I are not speaking at the moment.” He sighed.

“Forgive him. You did not want her and she needed a place within the new structure. I would rather her as an ally then an enemy. Why should I care if Naraku takes a lover or concubine? I have given him a daughter and son.” I shrugged.

“It matters to me! Akane?” he asked.

“Ishin, you have stated that you did not wish to be mated anymore. She did bare you Karu and you will always have that link with her. Now you seem to realize that you idolized her and did not see you both had faults. I am guessing that our relationship is better for you. Do not hold Naraku to your own personal standards.” I said calmly.

“I realized that you are who I want and have wanted. I have been and will remain madly in love with you.” He said under his breath.

“I love you as much Ishin. Naraku is himself and both his previous life and now. I know where his priorities lie.” I said moving away.

“I do understand.” He said shaking his head.

“Matters not. Make up with him. Do not let us onna come between you and your brother.” I said porting out.

I was in the jungles of Siam and I was sensing out Bihua. He appeared to my left and he looked annoyed.

“Is there any particular reason you feel the need to force your person on any onna?” I demanded.

“She is not admitting that is what she wants. Listen to her fine but I was in her head!” he snapped.

“Bihua, you know nothing of Aya's past. She is not the motherly type.” I said bluntly.

“I will kill her if she hurts my young!” he hissed.

“She is demanding you be punished for your transgression.” I said crossing my arms.

“As you will it but she will not kill my babe. She can bare it and give him to me!” he growled.

“How dare you dictate!” I retorted.

“Punish me, I care not. My babe is innocent and will not be harmed or she will be a dead funnel!” he said his eyes flashing crimson.

“I cannot see how to make her carry against her will.” I said.

“You make anything happen my lady. You will not embrace who you really are.” He said contemptuously.

“I am Asuna and not the very dead Ayana. She was killed by ningen the same as Nagaharu. Pathetic really.” I said growling.

“Do not speak as such about her!” he growled.

“You were enamored with her, why? Because she controlled you?” I asked.

“Because she was the most magnificent woman I knew in more than eighteen centuries. I was her lover when Gaku and Jouichi were busy fighting her battles.” He said glaring.

“That will not happen in this life.” I said glaring right back.

“Of course, you went and became a dog in this life.” He sneered.

“Sorry.” I snapped.

“What is my punishment my lady?” he demanded.

“The lash. Ishin will carry it out. You need to learn he is your master and not me.” I said meeting his eyes.

He looked outraged and then bowed.

“You swore fealty Bihua, You will beg Nobu for his sister's forgiveness. I will talk her into having the babe but you best stay away from her.” I commanded.

“As you command my lady.” He said with clenched teeth.

“You will return to Sendai. Aya's vice general will hold you.” I said and then ported back.

I found Ishin rocking Iyo and Ayana as I walked in. He smiled softly and I smiled in return.

“Bihua is to be given the lash and I told him you shall deliver it. I informed him that you are his master and he will learn it.” I said softly.

“Cool Asuna. Very calculated. You marvel me at your finesse in dealing with all the kumo.” He said shaking his head.

“I guess it does help having been one. I am for bed my love.” I said kissing each girl on the head.

Ayana popped up and grinned at me.

“Sleep time my girl.” I said softly.

“Hai. Zuki gone.” She yawned.

I sighed and decided to deal with my eldest daughter later. I had no energy left.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Ishin was cruel and very exacting with Bihua's punishment. It was pounded into the other races of kumo who the lord was. Aya was resistant to keeping the babe and I sighed. I was eating a soup and drinking sake as we talked.

“I am sorry but I do not want him. I have never wanted to be a mother. I was one a very long time ago and I did a good job I think.” She said bluntly.

“These are my thoughts Aya. Hai he forced it upon you but this babe is innocent. I know it will inconvenience you for many months but what is that in the span you have lived?” I asked brutally honest.

“I am to give up the babe to the recluse?” she demanded.

“He wants his son.” I said shrugging.

“I will carry this thing but I will think if I will give him to that cur!” she growled.

“Who would raise him?” I asked.

“Nobu is a good father.” She said looking away.

“That is a thought.” I nodded.

“He is forlorn again my lady.” She said meeting my eyes.

“I cannot help your brother's mood swings. I spent much time with him whilst I carried my Byakko twins but there is no point now.” I shrugged.

“I love my brother more than anything Lady Asuna. He was happier when you were his friend. I know not what changed but he is withdrawn again like he was when Ine and Juuna died.” She said in an angry tone.

“I am sorry for it Aya. I wish there was something I could do but I cannot. Thank you for giving this babe a chance.” I said dismissing her.

She was angry but kept her council. I was reading military reports as I ate and sipped my sake. I felt Naraku enter and I said nothing.

“May we talk?” he asked.

“Talk. I have not been avoiding you.” I said as I read.

“Asuna look at me.” He demanded.

I looked up at him and there was no anger or malice in my face. He sighed and sat by me.

“I am sorry. I lost my head.” He said softly.

“I am not your master Lord Naraku. I have no right or expectation to command you to stay loyal. I have been unable to do so. Why should I be angry at you for giving into lust? She is a beautiful onna. I am surprised it took you that long.” I shrugged.

“You are lying.” He snapped.

“No, I am not. I really do not care. I am not angry and or anything Naraku. You are still my mate and you still are the sire to Mizuki and Kenji.” I said downing my sake.

“Inu.” He sighed.

“Now Ishin was pissed you took his ex-mate to your bed but that is between you two.” I said standing.

“What has happened to us?” he asked.

“Time and realizing who and what we are. I love you still and I will always love you. You are part of me but in order to keep you in my life; I have to be reasonable like you have been with me.” I said leaning down and kissing his nose.

He smiled and I left the room. I went to my chambers and picked out a black hanfu. My moods had been of a dark nature lately and I dressed as such. I stiffened when I felt Nobu near and I walked in the opposite direction. I had to prepare for the ceremony with Yuudai and I had no intentions of dealing with the kumo healer.

“You are hateful!” he snapped from behind me.

“No, I am being reasonable.” I said turning.

“You will not even see me in combined company!” he yelled at me.

“I owe you much for saving my girls. You were right when I miscarried Sakina. I was hormonal and I used you. I am sorry healer Nobu. I was wrong in doing so. You are Ishin's best friend and not mine to covet.” I said stiffly.

“I know you not!” he said in an angry tone.

“No not really. I am preparing the kumo to accept Naraku and Ishin's rule fully. I am taking myself out of the politics here. I have inu under my rule and I am inu. I also have a council seat in the West and an army to run there. Please take care.” I said bowing low.

I looked up and his face held betrayal and pain. I stepped back and ported away. I was making myself cold and I did not care. If I was frozen then it would not hurt. I was in the West and I went to the barracks. I saw Youshiro and Baku. Baku was still a full general but he moved between my lands and the West. He actually seemed relieved to hand the West's armies back to Yuudai who was incredible at it.

“Hello Baku and little brother. You look tired Youshiro.” I stated.

“I uh.” He said blushing.

“Mating seems to agree with you brother.” I smirked.

“Zhou is an amazing onna but she is neat freak! If I so much as lay a haori in the wrong place then she goes nuts! She writes everything down and I am on a schedule!” he said sheepishly.

Baku snorted in laughter and I hid my smile. I knew Zhou's habits and she was a neat individual. I patted my brother's back and he sighed.

“Walk with me brother.” I said smirking.

“Hai. She has been insatiable lately too! I cannot catch a break from her or father right now. He is training me harder and she is wishing to rut all the time!” he groused.

“Zhou is entering her first major heat brother. She is full inu and that is normal. You did mate an onna who is your senior.” I said smiling.

“I have been careful of her but damnit Suna!” he cried.

I laughed and walked on. I went into the palace to find Osamu and he was amongst his pups playing with them. Aileana was sitting on a chaise resting and I sat down amongst my nieces and nephews.

“Aunt Suna!” Aimi cried.

“Hello my dear girl!” I said hugging her.

“Hello sister!” Osamu said leaning forward and hugging me.

“Hello.” I said hugging him tightly.

“Aileana sleeps through this?” I asked.

“She was kept up by Chizumi. She has been teething badly and Aileana will not let her cry.” He shrugged.

“Look at you! You are such a good mate and chichi!” I said smiling.

My baby niece crawled into my lap and began grabbing at my hair. I smiled down at her and my brother's three sons and two daughters.

“You want more?” I asked.

“Hai. Aileana does not right now. I am inclined to agree with that right now.” He said smiling.

“You are so happy!” I said smiling in return.

“Hai I am. I hear you gave Quon two girls? I am surprised Aileana and I have not had twins considering I am one.” Osamu stated.

“I think you keeping rutting and you will eventually. I think the Kamis and her God have been gracious.” I laughed.

“Hai. She is such an incredible onna. I was so lucky walking along the docks that day.” He said looking over at his petite kitsune mate.

“Does she still unbraid you in Gaelic?” I asked.

“Oh hai. She will go off on a tirade and start cussing me in Gaelic so I do not understand her. Yoshiko slowly gets better. Ling is here everyday and does not leave her side until father orders him to sleep. They are madly in love Asuna. I cannot see how that tiger will wait and not go mad. They speak in different languages to each other amongst other things.” Osamu said.

“Well the Hu brothers are a very passionate lot.” I said standing.

“Asuna, what is bothering you?” he asked.

“Nothing my womb mate. I am better then I was.” I said moving to the door.

“You should come back to Scotland with us next week.” He said.

“I will do that. Sheng has slowed down on his attacks. Hunan is in full war mode right now.” I sighed.

“I am sorry about that sister. I know you loved him at one time.” He replied.

“I did at one time. Kazuo hates me.” I said looking down.

“That was not your fault!” he cried softly.

“It does not matter Osamu. I failed my son.” I said moving away.

I ported to Mongolia to see the one male that I had not seen in a long while. I was near the ga cocoon city and I was looking up. I felt so many of the insect youki all over the place.

“Well well well. Who do we have here?” I heard Menomaru say.

“You have an old friend of your brother's here.” I said turning.

“You still do not like me.” He said smirking.

“Not really.” I said crossing my arms.

“Well Kenomaru is out and about and I am here to hold down the fort as they say.” He said hovering above the ground.

“Please tell him I was thinking of him and that I have not taken it off.” I said bowing.

“He knows. He feels you through that thing. We have been fighting a rather large group of oni. I have told him to call upon our Manchurian neighbors but he swears you have no time for it.” Menomaru snapped.

“Magatushi!” I cried.

“Yes that was the leader's name. Brutish bully but then Kenomaru swears that is his fault too.” He said swaying a little in the wind.

“When he needs my assistance then he has my blade.” I said bowing.

“Where can you be found?” he demanded.

“Different places. He need only feel me. I am fighting Panyu right now.” I sighed.

“I had heard that their lord had a most gruesome death.” Menomaru said smirking.

“Jin pissed my mother off.” I said bluntly.

“She is the kiang shi?” he asked.

“She is a kiang shi of great strength.” I said raising a brow.

“See you around she dog.” He said flying upward.

I shook my head and I made my way out of the forests. I felt alone and I knew I was not. I ported back to the West and I sat down to make plans of my ceremony with Yuudai.

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

Nobu was emotionally vacant. He went through the motions and knew he was a shell of himself. He knew better then to give his heart. One way or another it always ended up in pieces. He had delivered a babe in the morning and supped with his son in the evening. Nobuyuki had Juuna's coloring down to her last eyelash. His son chatted away about his recent stay in the West and he would smile in response. He adored his boy and that gave him some happiness. He was tired he realized and he realized that he was fast approaching a millennium of living with nothing to show except one youngling. He knew she was pulling totally away from the kumo and Ishin was unhappy. She showed up to spend time with her family but Ishin confided that she had not shared intimacies with him in awhile. She remained friendly but she kept to herself. Naraku it seemed had found himself quite entranced with Akane and Ishin snorted at the idea. Nobu grew more and more despondent and wished he could make her face him. He was busily planting more herbs in his garden at Sendai and he intended to go to Korea next. Aya was in the doorway and he turned to his sister.

“Hai?” he asked.

“We are both miserable.” She said sitting.

“You still do not want the babe?” he asked.

“I want him.” She said looking away.

“Truly?” he asked surprised.

“Hai. He moves and paths to me. I do not get a moment's peace from him. He cries sometimes and I have no idea why and it hurts.” She said in a shaky voice.

“Infants cry sister. Even in the womb they do.” He shrugged.

“Bihua is a fool if he thinks he shall have my son. I cannot decide if I hate him or want him!” she said in anger.

“We are both fools then.” He said as he sat on his backside.

“Why are you so devoid of life?” she demanded.

“I know not what you mean.” He said looking at her.

“When the lady was here all the time; you were so happy. You were just alive it seemed.” She said sadly.

“You know me Aya. I have a melancholy personality.” He said looking away.

“Hai. You have been that way since your ningen passed away. When that idiot inu killed herself you got worse.” She growled.

“Sister, I know you are more like a mother to me but it is my life and I have a right to live it how I see fit.” He sighed.

“I worry is all. I had to rock you to sleep when you had nightmares as a young boy after haha and chichi died. I was the one who had to teach you to hunt and fend for yourself.” She said with a trembling lip.

“I owe you everything Aya. I adore you sister as I should. You have always been there for me but I am nearly ten centuries now. Little Nobu did grow up.” He sighed.

Aya stood up and looked back.

“Who destroyed you this time?” she demanded.

“No one. I allowed myself to feel. We both know what a mistake that is in my case. I am not allowed to have what I really want and I have reconciled myself to it. Go sleep sister your babe needs you to rest.” He said softly.

She left and he heard her cry a little. He knew she only ever cried for him. She was the only member of his house that lived and he was completely devoted to her. He sighed more and went back to planting.

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

I was at dinner with me family and all my siblings were present. I was laughing at Youshiro as Zhou insisted upon cleaning his stained haori. He was blushing madly and wanted to bury his head. His mate had taken the offending silk and was working the stain out herself.

“Son, I think it prudent to pup her and get it over with. She is instinctually trying to keep order within her life.” My sire said in a rare long speech.

“You and Asuna threatened me with my life if I did!” he cried in exasperation.

“This Sesshomaru thinks it necessary to save your sanity.” My father said snorting softly in laughter.

“Sesshomaru!” Augusta laughed.

“I agree at this point brother. You will never make it through this heat.” I said smirking.

“Fine when I tell you all she is pupped then do not admonish me!” he said downing his sake.

“Get to it little brother.” Osamu said smiling.

Youshiro jumped up and left the Great Hall. We all laughed and went back to our formal meal. My parents looked at each other fondly and I saw Yoshiko eating lightly. Ling was now a regular in the West and no one thought anything of it. Yoshiko had a very long recovery but Ling was there every step of the way.

“Prince Ling?” My sire stated.

“Yes my lord?” Ling asked turning his attention to my father.

“It would please this court if you married Yoshiko by proxy.” He said.

“Thank you my lord.” Ling said bowing his head.

Yoshiko smiled at our sire and he nodded to her. It seemed my sire liked Ling a lot. My mother stood and stretched.

“I am for bed my darlings. Good to have you home Asuna.” She said sweetly.

“Good evening mother.” I said inclining my head.

She slipped away and had winked at my sire. He stood and moved to sit by me. I scooted a little and he was nursing sake.

“Yuudai told me of your plans.” He said.

“Hai. I felt your words had merit my lord. I am setting the kumo nation so that I will not be required at all. The only reason I will be there is to see my pups.” I said shrugging.

“That is a drastic change.” He said surprised.

“No it is not. I have found out things and I am shutting the door to the past fully. I am your daughter and your heir. I am for bed my lord.” I said standing.

He looked puzzled and I bowed to him. I slipped from the hall and I went to my chambers. These rooms were full of memories for me and I was falling into depression again. I moved to my sideboard and poured more sake. I toasted my grandsire in my mind and downed it. I went to the balcony and watched the moon rising in the sky. It was a clear night as I stared. I saw a kumo web in the distance and surmised it was a lower level one. I watched as the arachnid moved along the silk of its web and it was a lower level kumo youki. I grabbed Kumosaiga and jumped down. I was restless and decided to patrol. I walked along the paths that led out of the palace complex. I neared the web and decided to see if this kumo could talk.

“Have you had a good hunt?” I asked aloud.

“When you disturb me no.” it answered.

“I am Lady Asuna.” I replied.

“I know who you are. There is not a kumo alive that does not know their lady.” It chuckled.

“You are an upper level are you not?” I asked.

“Oh hai. Just an old one who prefers their true form. I am unusual in that I can talk in this form.” It said.

“Are you a jorogumo?” I asked.

“Very astute. I am not disturbing the Western residents am I? I do not eat other youki…too much effort.” It laughed.

“Are you male or female?” I queried.

“Female.” She laughed loudly.

“Well happy hunting. You are not bothering anyone.” I said lightly.

“Hai Lady Asuna.” She said chuckling.

I walked on further and I went to the same hot spring that Katashi had seen me in so many years ago. I wiped away lone tears and wished I had never met the Manchu inu. I sighed and stripped my silks. I sank into the depths of the hot water and released a long moan as the water seemed to melt away my weariness. I ended up passing out and fell into dreams of old. I could see my battle with Katashi and his taunts. I could see my very young self being furious at his demeanor. I could feel my anguish melting in me as I watched the scenes haunt me. I woke up slowly and I was alone. I hated myself at the same time as hating my past selves. I looked over at the tree line and I sensed a faint aura.

“Whoever you are you may as well come out. I know you are there.” I said in a tired tone.

“All alone?” the voice taunted.

“Well you show yourself.” I said sneering.

“Hai. You have been busy in my past as well whore inu. You discovered I was an oni.” He said in malice.

“Hai I did but I was not there for you. You always managed to face me and then piss yourself in fear.” I said harshly.

He moved forward and yanked me from the water. I began fighting him with all I was worth. I managed to put my claws through his torso and his blood spilt on me. He was exerting pressure on my throat and I pressed my hand to him and released the supaida nami. We were thrown apart with tremendous force and I hit a boulder. I cried out and he was bleeding badly. He moved back to me and I tried to will my yukata to me at least.

“No your body is delicious whore. I want Naraku to suffer for his cowardly ways. I want to make the great dark one cower before me! He left me without the jewel and any defense for an inu cunt!” he growled.

“No he left you out because you were worthless!” I snapped.

I cried out in pain as he sunk several fingers into my center. He was ripping me up and I gasped in pain.

“Your own yoki drained you and injured you. How very ironic.” He laughed.

He grabbed my hair and ported us near Sendai. I pressed my hands to his arm and again released my yoki. I was thrown backwards into a tree. I felt a branch go through my side and I screamed.

“Damn bitch!” he howled.

He slapped me hard and pulled me off of the branch. He yanked my head back and made me look at his cruel eyes.

“Midoriko was sweet to plunder as well. I finally managed it within the jewel itself. I hate miko sluts and I sure as hell hate you and Naraku. Your mother was a treat to torture as it was damn near impossible to kill her. I tell you that I tore her sweetly in so many areas.” He said in a sadistic voice.

I was oozing blood from my side and I was groggy from the blood loss. I turned in his grasp and brought my knee up to his groin. He fell and I staggered forward after I tore his haori from him. I wrapped myself and was trying to port. I had used too much yoki and I was in pain. I kept moving trying to go where I knew there were patrols. Magatushi came behind me and pushed me forward. I landed flat on my chest and I grunted.

“Call Naraku now!” he commanded in harsh tone.

“Fuck you!” I hissed.

“I will have to make this painful I see.” He growled.

He turned me over and shoved his claws into my belly and yanked on my organs. I screamed in agony and he turned me over. I had a surge in yoki and I willed a huge rock at his head and he staggered. I was gasping as the burning pain was trying to overwhelm me. I managed to concentrate enough and he screamed loudly as blood vessels in one eye exploded. He snarled and dove at me.

“Call him now!” he shrieked in my face.

I shook my head and he bashed my head with a rock. I kept in my groans of pain and I swiped my claws at him. I knew I had gotten his face as the gore was bad. I was releasing my Dakkasou and he hit me in my stomach as hard as he could. I doubled up and he forced my thighs apart. I screamed not only in voice but mind as well. He ripped the pendent from Kenomaru from me and threw it at a tree where it shattered. He forced his organ into me as he bloodied me badly.

“You kept me from the jewel and now you will call upon the bastard or you will die a heinous death.” He raged.

“No.” I managed weakly.

He kept up the assault and I was bleeding out. He was plundering a near corpse but I was holding on. I heard soldiers and yells. He tore me asunder everywhere I had skin and violated me every which way. I still refused to call on Naraku and he slit my throat. He was thrown back by silk from a kumo and I could barely make out Aya. She was slicing into him and releasing huge amounts of venom. I felt hands on me and I saw Nobu. He was nearly choked up upon seeing me and I managed to stay awake. He ported us to the apothecary and began working on me. I could not speak and the pain was overwhelming my senses.

“Kamis! We were right here! Why did you not call on the brothers?” he cried.

I stared at him and a couple of tears fell from my eyes. He forced the wound in my throat shut and sewed me shut. I was trying to shut down and he was working quickly.

“I cannot see you die! You have to fight Asuna. You have to want to live!” he demanded from me.

I heard shouts and I saw Naraku in the doorway. His eyes were wide as he took in my broken form.

“Who?” he asked in a terrible voice.

“She cannot talk my lord. Her larynx was crushed and throat cut.” Nobu explained.

“She cannot path?” he asked in a shaking voice.

“I feel her trying to retreat to avoid the physical pain my lord.” Nobu said looking up.

I felt Naraku delve into my mind and his eyes widened further as he watched events from my memories. He snarled in rage and lost his mind. Ishin came to the apothecary followed by Aya. Ishin was scarlet eyed and in full armor.

“He is leaving a bloody trail brother. Come!” Ishin commanded.

“He wanted me Asuna! Why did you not call me?” Naraku demanded.

I blinked my eyes and he cried out. He snarled in fury and I was honest.

“Ishin come now.” Naraku said in an emotional tone.

Naraku stalked out and more tears leaked from my eyes. I had pathed that I knew he had been with Akane. I knew he did not need me anymore. I stayed awake as Nobu worked and I suffered the worst pain of my life. I could not stop crying and I was willing my body to heal. I knew it was working but it would take time. I had told Naraku to protect the onna he obviously loved now. Nobu tried to give me widow venom and I knocked it out of his hands.

“Asuna! You are in shock right now. You have lost a hell of a lot of blood and he injured your bowels. You need this to knock you out as I have a lot of work to do.” He said in my ear.

-No. Need pain. - I pathed suddenly.

“Not this pain Asuna. Not this kind of pain for this is horrid what he did.” Nobu said softly.

-No care. - I pathed again.

He snarled in upset and still worked on the damage. I was shaking and I knew he spoke the truth about shock.

-Home Nobu. I want home. - I pathed.

“You are home Asuna.” He growled.

-No longer home. Nothing here except babes. Take me home. - I begged in thought.

“You are cruel even now?” he demanded.

-No care. - I pathed.

I saw a tear slip out of his eye but he honored my request. He had taken me straight to Yasu's infirmary. The old inu came in and looked horrified at my state.

“Magatushi got her. Naraku and Ishin have gone after him. My sister claims that your lady did much damage to him as well. She insists that she should be here.” He said in a calm voice.

“My poor girl.” Yasu said as he too began sewing me up.

“Hurt.” I said in a hoarse whisper.

“Here my girl take this.” Yasu said as he lifted my head and gave me a powerful draught.

I saw Nobu's eyes and he was beyond hurt. I closed my eyes so that I did not have to see his feelings. I finally and blessedly passed out.

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

Naraku was hunting his former ally. Ishin and he had been snarling and yelling at the other.

“What did she say to you?” he demanded.

“She told me that I was no longer her concern. I was to protect Akane from Magatushi.” Naraku said in a cold voice.

“She said that?” Ishin said in disbelief.

“She said he would come after all I cared about. She asked me to hide our babes and to keep Akane safe. She said she did not care anymore. She said she did not care about anything except the babes.” He said in a hurt tone.

“That includes me?” Ishin asked.

“She did not specify. She made sure to wound me.” Naraku said in anger.

“She was torn to bits and she did not draw you in danger. I say that was a tremendous wound to you brother.” Ishin snapped.

Naraku looked over at his younger brother and hissed. His longtime mate had told him she no longer wanted to be with him. She wanted him happy and it was obvious he was happy with Akane. She had given up it seemed as she had when Katashi had tried to kill her. She wanted no one she had said. She wanted nothing anymore except to make Sheng suffer for the pain he had inflicted. He was devastated at her words and tried to pay them no heed. Ishin and he stopped and they lost the trail.

“I am putting the younglings into hiding as she suggested.” Ishin said in anger.

“Hai.” Naraku sighed.

“What is wrong with you?” Ishin demanded.

“Wondering why she is pulling away from everything.” He said tersely.

“I have no idea! I have no clue and you went and bedded my ex-mate!” Ishin snarled in anger.

“You wanted nothing to do with her and she is alluring.” Naraku snapped.

“What is Asuna to you?” Ishin asked.

“I do not know anymore. We have not been close in a long while.” He said honestly.

“Is that her fault? She had been around us a lot and you took Akane as a mate!” Ishin accused.

“You have this ideal about her Ishin. She is not perfect and you treat her as though she is!” he snapped.

“I have no ideal about her. She and I have been happy. We had gotten over our issues and we were happy!” he sneered.

“Then be happy with her. I doubt she has anything left in her.” Naraku said in anger.

He knew he did not mean it but he was profoundly hurt by her dismissal after she had sworn that it would never happen again. He should not have been surprised. His inu was never capable of keeping her word and especially to him. He was surprised at the depth of his anguish. He thought he had been moving on without her and that surprised him as well. He had not even realized that was what he was doing. Ishin ported away and he stared into the forest.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I woke up and I stared at the wall. I struggled to get up and I was still in major pain. I had been subjected to such horrible torture and rape at the beast's hands. I was sick to my stomach and I began vomiting. Someone helped to roll me as I emptied my stomach full of bile. I saw Yasu and Nobu both there and I remained stoic in my response. Yasu wiped my mouth and helped me up.

“All the damage has been repaired my lady. Your sire is out hunting Magatushi as well as your uncle. Lord Ishin has sequestered your babes as you requested. The remaining are in hiding as well with the uppyr.” Yasu said.

I was touched that Eyal would do that and I nodded. Yasu helped me up and Nobu looked away from me. I was shaking terribly and I went to the balcony and began vomiting more.

“Your were ripped apart badly my lady but he pupped you.” Yasu said under his breath.

I turned and my face blanched. I was shaking as I walked towards a pitcher of water and I rinsed my mouth.

“My lady I suggest we rid you now.” Yasu said fiercely.

“Innocent.” I muttered hoarsely.

“No! This was to shatter you Asuna.” Yasu said in a growl.

“Innocent.” I said again.

“You would really birth this thing?” Yasu said in disbelief.

“Not Kami.” I mumbled.

“By the Kamis my girl you are on your way to being one! Destroy this evil in your womb.” He said flatly.

“Do not care.” I shrugged.

“What is wrong with you?” Yasu demanded.

“Do not care.” I said hoarsely.

I moved to the window and lay down on a chaise. I stared out into the bright and clear day.

“Healer talk some sense into her!” Yasu growled leaving.

“He is right my lady.” Nobu whispered.

“Do not care.” I repeated.

“That thing did things I have never seen! He is evil.” Nobu cried.

“Me too.” I said closing my eyes.

He looked at me horrified and shook his head.

“Where are your lords?” I asked in a monotone.

“Sendai. They want me to bring you there.” He said.

“Do not care.” I repeated.

Nobu sighed and he barely touched me as he produced his shoki cloud. He ported us to Sendai and settled me on the examination futon. He went to the shoji door and called on a servant to get Naraku and Ishin. Minutes passed and they both appeared.

“She is healed?” Ishin asked under his breath.

“The beast got her pregnant.” Nobu said in disgust.

Naraku blanched and I said nothing. Ishin came to me and made me look at him. I stared at him blankly and said nothing.

“Asuna?” he asked softly.

“Did you make sure the babes are safe?” I asked hoarsely.

“Hai.” Ishin said.

“Did you make sure Akane was safe Lord Naraku?” I asked.

“She is not a target.” Naraku growled at me.

“She is if you care for her. He hates you immensely. He thinks he was hurting you by coming at me.” I said dully.

“Asuna.” He growled.

“I could not tell him that I was nothing. I am tired now. I want to go home.” I said in a monotone.

“You are home.” Ishin said in a pained voice.

“Your kingdom is restored as it was before your mother destroyed it. My work here is done.” I said dully.

“You cruel hearted bitch!” Naraku snarled.

I looked at him blankly and nodded. I managed to stand and I was shaky.

“Not trying to hurt anyone. I want to go home. I want to see Tekeshi.” I said in a tired voice.

“Tekeshi is dead!” Naraku snapped.

“I know.” I said hoarsely and I moved slowly.

“Asuna?” Ishin asked in an anguished tone.

“No good Ishin. I am no good. I was not strong enough as Ayana and I am not strong enough now. I am ready for home.” I said in a whisper.

I pulled all my yoki within myself and I ported to Tekeshi's shrine. There was a shrine knife used in different things. I willed it to my hand. I would end the abomination in my womb. I hated myself that I could not be noble and honorable. I espoused the crap often enough. I plunged the knife deeply into my own womb and I kept in my grunts of pain.

“So tired Tekeshi. I am so tired.” I said closing my eyes.

I felt blood seep through my hakama and I just sat there. Ayana's memories had shown me as in that life as all my lives that those I cherished the most ended up perishing. That was the main reason I was withdrawing. I felt the pain and I knew I had killed one of my own pups. I saw Nobu at the edge of the shrine and I crawled forward. He moved swiftly and he held me up.

“I hate you right now.” He said in a terrible voice.

“Do not care.” I said in my dull tone.

“You could have allowed us to do this without the drama my lady.” He snapped.

“As you say Nobu.” I said closing my eyes.

“Is this because of me? Have you become this because of me?” he asked.

“Not all is about you Nobu. You are just as good at self hatred the same as I.” I said in a low voice.

“Asuna?” I heard my name called.

“Kenomaru?” I whispered.

Nobu's grip on me tightened when he saw the ga come forward.

“I did not take it off. It was torn from me. I did not break my word.” I said weakly.

“What happened to her spider?” Kenomaru demanded.

“She was attacked by the oni Magatushi.” Nobu answered tightly.

“Give her to me!” Kenomaru hissed.

“No! I am a healer.” Nobu snapped.

“A piss poor one obviously.” The ga leader growled.

I was forcefully taken into the ga's arms and Nobu was growling. My eyes opened and I saw him.

“I came to see you. Why did you not call on me?” I asked softly.

“I had caused you enough issue and you saved Menomaru. I owed you peace. I am sorry that I left you alone. I felt your pain and I should have come. I felt the pendent shatter.” He said with a worried expression.

“Ga leave her be.” Nobu said in anger.

“Spider you can rot in hell. Goodbye!” Kenomaru said porting us away.

“I did not take it off. I swore to you not to take it off.” I mumbled.

“I know. I know you did not take it off willingly. I can have another one made for you if you wish. I will never leave you for so long again.” He said softly as he took the knife from me.

“Killed it. I killed my own pup; even if it was from pure evil.” I mumbled.

“What is this? What are you saying?” he asked.

“Magatushi. He ripped me asunder. Ripped me apart all over and raped.” I said in a shaky voice.

“Raped? He raped you?” Kenomaru asked in a strangled voice.

“To hurt Naraku. Funny thing is that Naraku was not hurt by it. Naraku cares for her now. He needs to guard her.” I murmured.

“I am taking you to the kumo healer now. I am going after him myself as I should have done long before. This is my fault and I am so sorry.” He said pressing his forehead to mine.

“No matter.” I said closing my eyes tightly.

He ported us to Sendai and Ishin was in the courtyard. Ishin glared at Kenomaru as my former lover laid me in Ishin's arms. He stepped back and ported out. Ishin carried me to some chambers I did not recognize. He was stricken as he laid me down.

“I abide your wishes my love. I know not what was ripping you from us before but I know what has now. I am sorry you could not call upon me at least.” He said brushing my hair off my forehead.

“I want to go now Ishin. I want no more suffering. I have had enough. I have had four lifetimes of it.” I said sighing deeply.

“I knew you remembered some of Ayana but you remember it all now?” he asked pained.

“Hai. I am so tired of it all.” I said turning on my side.

“Asuna, tell me how to make this better for you!” he cried.

“Get me out of your life. I am no good for you and I am no good for anyone. Do you not see? I intend to go back to the West and be the proper bitch. I have no intentions of venturing forth anymore!” I said choking on my words.

“No! No, I do not accept this. You are my mate. I will help you through whatever but I will not abandon you! Do you hear me? Naraku can be damned but I will not fail you!” he snarled.

I was startled at his words and he picked me up. He carried me back to our chambers and laid me carefully on the futon. He yelled for Nobu and the healer came in. He was very cool towards me and he sat beside the futon.

“Make sure she is alright and all vestiges of that pregnancy are gone. Make sure she gets plenty of sleep and food in her belly.” Ishin commanded.

“Hai my lord.” Nobu nodded.

“Keep my brother away for now.” Ishin also commanded.

“Hai.” Nobu bowed his head.

Ishin ported out and I stared at the ceiling. Nobu sat me up a little and tried to get me to take a draught and I fought him. I growled and snarled and knocked the medicine away.

“Let me help you!” he yelled.

“No! Not you. Anyone but you!” I yelled back.

“What have I done?” he asked in a strangled voice.

“You told me to let us go and I have. You demanded I forget what we had shared in the past and now. I am not a glutton and I want nothing from you.” I cried.

“Then be a fool on your own time and not mine! My lord commanded me to care for you and by the Kamis that is what I shall do!” he snapped.

“I do not want your help. I do not want anything from you. I want nothing as you want nothing for you. You would turn away and be a coward to avoid the pain. I have had to face it in the past and now. No, I want nothing from you.” I said pulling myself up.

“So you abort a babe yourself? That is not sound that is insane!” he said shaking me.

“Send Yasu but get away from me healer. Insulate yourself to keep from feeling. You could not tell me that you remembered. I had to come to you!” I said holding my chest.

“Stop!” he cried.

“No, I know why Juuna did what she did. No one can reach you. You give and pull back and you get to feel more anguish so you can insulate yourself further.” I ranted.

“You are cruel and hateful. I have never been as such to you!” he said in tremendous anger.

“No of course not. No you who are such a compassionate creature. You do your good deeds to make you feel something. What was it like making love? Did you feel at all or did you shut yourself off from that too?” I demanded.

He slapped me and stood up. I laid down and lay on my side.

“You can send for Yasu if you wish. I am inu and I need remember that!” I hissed.

“You have suffered as much as me. I am sorry if my way of dealing with it is reprehensible. Do you honestly think I wanted to be torn from you and our son?” he asked in a wretched tone.

“It matters not. He was killed by his own son; what does it matter now?” I asked.

“It does not at this point. I kept a babe from you in the past the same reason as I have pulled back. I was trying to save us both pain.” He said in a hoarse tone.

“Hai I see. You remembered before I did. You remembered and you kept it to yourself and I was trying to cleave to you. You are a very good martyr Nobu.” I said in a defeated tone.

“Drink the damn draught!” he hissed.

“No. I will not accept your care; it is false and forced. I want not a thing from you.” I said gathering the quilt to me.

“Hateful harpy! You are the most hateful onna I have ever met. You would make the Kamis themselves loathe you!” he yelled.

I said nothing and he turned me over. He pressed a claw into the base of my skull and I was paralyzed. I was furious with him. He managed to pour the draught down my throat and I growled in his head.

“That will ensure your womb is cleansed of the dead tissues. I am sorry you find me so offensive. I have done my best to handle this odd and strange situation. I fell so deeply for you and I knew it was a mistake. I knew having seen you deal with Ishin what an emotional tidal wave you are. I knew it was all or nothing. I have given my all as best I can. I hurt too! You cannot see past your own feelings to realize that I feel too.” He said laying me gently down.

I stared at him and tears fell from my eyes.

“It does not matter that you were Ayana. It does not matter that I was Nagaharu. What matters is that we were supposed to learn from those lives. I have learned that as much as I may love you then or now; it is a well which I cannot fill. We should have stopped months ago. I should have fought harder. I am but just one of your playthings. You will regain function in just a bit and now I take my leave. I am so sorry you were brutalized and for naught.” He said rising.

He left the room and I cried harder then I had in a long while. I grew angry and resentful suddenly and I fought to regain my limbs. I moved slowly but I went in search of Naraku. He was in the main hall and I moved to him. I grabbed his jaw and I was angry.

“Touch her again and I will kill her.” I said bluntly.

“Pardon?” he asked in fury.

“I will kill her. You are mine.” I hissed loudly.

I jerked him forward and he looked angry. I slapped him and he grabbed my haori.

“Why did you have to suffer at his hands!” he hissed.

“Because I was trying to protect you idiot.” I snapped.

“Bitch!” he said in anguish.

“I shall crawl all over you and make it to where you see me everyday and every second. She has not suffered for you. I have and I will be damned if you use her to get what I should be taking!” I growled.

His eyes were crimson and his breathing deep. I lowered my lips to within a mere fraction of an inch and he met my eyes.

“Give me a day.” I snapped.

I pulled away from him and stalked to Ishin's armory. I saw Ishin arming several men. I moved closer and he was surprised. I pulled him down and began kissing him right there. He groaned into it and brought his hands up to hold my face. I backed away from the kiss and bowed.

“Please avenge me my love. I am going to Eyal to take in his blood. It will heal me and I will make that oni scum pay!” I growled.

“What has come over you?” he asked softly.

“I will roll over for no one.” I said backing up.

I ported out to Buda and I went to the library. I went straight up to Eyal and ripped open his shirt. He was surprised and I sank my fangs in over a flat nipple. He gasped and groaned at the same time. I drank deeply and I felt his yoki course through me. I felled us to our knees and he groaned more. I pulled back and he was panting.

“I needed healing.” I explained.

“Are you better? They explained that beast tore you apart.” He said holding my chin.

“Hai I am better. Thank you for your blood. Can you keep my babes longer? When I return I will show you everything. I mean everything.” I said meeting his eyes.

He seemed mesmerized and nodded slowly. I slowly lowered his lips to mine and accepted his sweeping tongue. It was passionate and needy. I ended up dragging a claw across my neck and he growled. He sank his own fangs in and snarled passionately as he drank from me. I gasped and cried out as he brought me delicious pleasure. He finally pulled back and looked away.

“Go before I cannot stop myself.” He said in a weak voice.

“Thank you.” I whispered.

He nodded and I ported out. I found Naraku in our chambers as he was changing into hakama and haori. I yanked him back by his hair and he snapped his fangs. His chest was bare and I dragged my claws across his chest. He growled in anger and it changed to passion as I drew blood along his flat nubs.

“You are more kumo in that you need to feel my yoki and so you shall.” I said in his ear.

“Stop this!” he snapped.

“You like this.” I said fiercely.

He gasped hard as I grabbed his member. My fingers lightly dragged across his velvet girth. I walked us backwards and laid him on his back. He met my gaze and I lowered my lips to his inner thighs. I nipped roughly at the sensitive skin. I did not think and I took one testicle into my mouth. I sucked and laved attention on it. Naraku was thrashing under my ministrations. I intended to show him who his master was. I intended to show him where his loyalties would lie. I moved to his other one and sucked him hard.

“Kamis!” he cried out.

I was not gentle but I did not hurt him. I released his other egg shaped testicle and moved my tongue to his perineum. He lifted his head and I saw panic but I nipped and licked it gently. His face crumpled and he moaned so beautifully that I nearly came undone. I spread his thighs and sucked on a finger and bit my claw off. I watched him and he was moaning as I stroked his member. I lowered my mouth and took him into my heated orifice. He was mindlessly calling my name as I inserted my finger and massaged his nodule. He stopped breathing a moment and it became shallow. I continued to massage it with my finger and suck on his member. I saw his miasma bleed from his claws a little and he exploded. He cried out loudly and I had to shut the shoji with my mind. He jerked so hard and he was so tense that I knew he would be sore. I took his release and slipped my finger back and released his member. He was still stiff a little and I straddled him.

“No more! I can take no more!” he growled out.

“You will. You will remember me if you ever fuck her again. You will remember what our heat and passion do. You may plunder her body but it will be my name you call!” I snarled at him.

I ground into him hard and I had never seen him this way. He had no control and he was moaning non-stop. I closed my eyes and allowed my yoki to flow. I used my telekinesis to prod him as my finger had done. He actually screamed out and I continued to ride him hard. I pressed my yoki into him and pulled his forth mercilessly. The sheer power in the room would have suffocated anyone else and I came undone. I too screamed as I shivered in response. My beloved and my heart of sixteen years succumbed and screamed himself hoarse. He blacked out and I rode out our mutual bliss. I crawled off of him and he was gone for now. I was sweating badly and I had another kumo to show myself to. I growled softly and leaned over Naraku. His eyes barely opened and I stared into them.

“You were mine in this life the second I stepped foot in your castle. You will do good to remember that my sweet. Remember me alone and remember me as you bathe. If you do take her then you will see my face. There has never been nor never be another onna for you.” I whispered fiercely.

He said nothing as his eyes rolled back and he passed out. I covered him lightly and I ported to the hot spring. I washed away the stickiness from the intense rut. I cleaned myself well and I ported back into my chambers. Naraku still slept and I dressed in a deep blue hanfu. There was silver woven into the garment and I tied a silver obi around my waist. I moved from my rooms and let myself feel Nobu. He was in Korea at the small palace that used to belong to Jouichi. I had not been there in this era and I ported. I had not realized that it was in use. I moved with stealth and masked my aura. I walked and I found a huge garden that he was working. The small palace was not in use but the lands around it. I moved silently and I came to stand behind him. He continued to pull weeds and pull ripe plants.

“You wish to fight then I shall fight.” I said from behind him.

“I did not hear you approach.” He said looking back.

“You would not, even being a kumo.” I said harshly.

“Why are you here?” he asked.

“I am well. I took in Eyal's blood. It has a way of healing much. I want revenge.” I said bluntly.

“Then go find Magatushi.” He said flippantly.

“No healer. I want my revenge on you.” I said in a fierce way.

“I had not realized you felt as such.” He said almost helplessly.

“Face me.” I said growling.

“I am no warrior.” He said standing.

“No you are a healer. You are a brilliant one but a void.” I said cruelly.

“Do you wish to kill me? Why, because I spoke the truth?” he said.

He stood his ground and I stalked closer. I scented his neck and he continued to stand there.

“Do you really hate me?” I asked.

“I have hated the feelings you have invoked in me but no I do not hate you.” He replied.

I pulled him to me roughly. His hair had been tied back and I undid it. He met my eyes and I spread open his haori. I exposed his neck and he still stood there. I bared my canines and dragged them across his neck. He hissed softly and I ran the point of my tongue along his veins.

“If you intend to kill me then if you sever the artery then that should do the trick.” He said hatefully.

“If I intended to kill you then you would be dead at my feet having been drained dry. I have done that only once.” I said flippantly.

“How is it you wish to punish me?” he asked.

I sucked harshly on his pulse point and it brought him to his knees. I sank with him and I did not ease up. Certain points on a kumo could bring intense pleasure and I had discovered that the pulse point was one. He was breathing quickly and I saw his eyes flutter from glancing. I slipped my fangs into the vein and he released a soul shattering cry. I coursed all manner of intense feeling through the bite. He was shaking hard against me and I continued to feed and flood him. He could not catch his breath and he started crying out harder as I neared him to the abyss. I drugged his senses and he suddenly grasped my arms. He cried out and I felt him beginning to shake and cried out louder and yelled for the Kamis. He was holding me tightly as I released his neck. I knew I had taken in much blood and he looked weak. I ported us to the library that held the futon. It was dusty and old and he seemed to just stare out.

“Never been inside.” He mumbled.

“I have.” I whispered in his ear.

“You took so much blood.” He said staring at me.

“Hai.” I said as I laid him back.

I lifted his hand and looked at his claws. He watched me with an exhausted look on his face.

“How do you release your venom?” I asked softly.

“I can do it.” He said closing his eyes.

“Then release it.” I said.

I saw his venom leak from his claws and I guided his hand to near his groin. I pressed a single claw in near the base of his member. He had been so out of it but he instantly came awake. He was almost instantly stiff and it was obvious in pain some.

“What have you done?” he asked in a pained voice.

“It begs to reason that in sensitive areas that a kumo would not be immune to their own venom. My Dakkasou can be quite deadly so I use yours.” I explained as though him.

I finished pulling down his hakama and he was shifting uncomfortably. I began touching along his upper thighs and all around his groin. He was shifting and groaning as I did so. I made sure to run my fingertips over his skin slowly and he snarled suddenly.

“What does that feel like?” I asked.

“I feel it in my nerves. It feels so damn good.” He said clenching his jaw.

“Describe this for me Nobu. What does it feel like?” I asked as I barely licked at the skin around his groin.

“Exquisite torture. I cannot take this.” He moaned out.

“Take it!” I snapped.

His lips trembled lightly and I laved his member. He released a deep and throaty moan and I then blew on it, I went back and forth between warm breaths and blowing it cooler.

“Kamis! Oh please! Please Asuna. I cannot stand it. I am hurting.” He begged in a strangled moan.

“You have to hurt remember Nobu?” I asked.

“Sadistic bitch!” he snapped at me.

I smiled seductively at him and I unmasked myself completely. I pressed myself to him and his eyes closed as he took in my scent.

“Cruel. You are cruel.” He moaned.

“How am I any crueler then you? I am learning my lessons from my past lives. You will learn yours now!” I said in his ear.

I softly blew in his ear and his kumo body was on overload I knew. It was as if I had him tied down but he strained under the torture of his senses. I began to run my fingers over his elfin ear and then his jaw. I moved them next over his chest and belly. I lowered my head to his chest and licked at his male nubs. I took the venom from his claws and scratched the sensitive flesh there too. He yelled out and I saw him straining to the point of shaking badly.

“You wish to change? There is no kumo onna here to cleave to.” I said smirking devilishly.

“Let me alone.” He screamed at me.

I leaned down and did what I had done to Naraku. I overwhelmed his senses completely. I took his sac and rolled and massaged his stones. His sweet nature was replaced by his animal one. I decided to torture him further and I closed my eyes.

“Beg you!” he yelled out in a rasp.

“Beg me what Nobu?” I asked in my lilting tone.

“Dying! Kamis please! Pain!” he snarled out.

“Allow yourself to climax.” I commanded.

“Cannot. Too much. I cannot, please…please I beg you. I beg you!” he said nearly clawing me.

I stood up and his eyes were reddened. I could see the desperation in his eyes and I stepped back.

“No! Please.” He begged.

“I love you Nobu. I will always love you.” I said softly as I shed the blue silk.

I began to rub my clit in front of him and he groaned. He grabbed his girth and I slapped his hand away. He snarled again and whined loudly. I took his hand and pressed a claw to my nub and he without hesitation pressed in. He released a bit but I fought the bliss.

“I want you to watch me. I want you to watch me as I make you mine.” I said in a lust filled voice.

He shook and growled and whined. I went to my knees and found my mark at his femoral artery. I clamped down with tremendous force. He screamed out but I kept him from release. I drank a little and it looked like Nobu was going to change. I lay on my side facing him and he jerked me to him. He pushed me back and he snapped his hips into me. I felt a wonderful jolt shoot through me. I suddenly held the base of his member and he did not breathe for a moment.

“Move within me.” I said in a breathless tone.

He cried out and groaned. He hesitated but then lowered his lips to mine. He began kissing me and his yoki was slipping and sliding as if it was him. Our lips scorched and seared as he tried to take me hard and rough. I continued to hold the base of his erection and continued to be in a haze. His snarling was coming harder as he plunged into my center continuously. We both lost control of our natural powers and they crashed into the other as our bodies did the same. The melded yoki crashed into us both as I began yelling out his name. Our bodies continued to be one the same as our yoki. Nobu's noises were primitive and I was slipped under the blackness of a complete joining. I rolled my head to the side and noiselessly cried out my rapture. I released him and he lost his head totally. His frantic pounding brought me another climax and crescendo of yoki. I was immersed and dizzy as I screamed out my love. I lost consciousness this time and I felt whole.

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

I woke up slowly and Nobu was fast asleep next to me. Our limbs were tangled and the scent of our love making was heavy and heady. I ran my hand up his arm and he groaned in his sleep. I kissed his shoulder and his eyes opened. He breathed in and stared at me.

“Good morning.” I mumbled.

“Morning?” he asked shocked.

“Hai.” I said fighting the sleepiness.

“I lost total control. What did I do?” he asked softly.

“I could not tell you; I do not recall the very end. After I screamed, I passed out.” I shrugged.

He slid down my body and he groaned as he looked up.

“I marked your ankle.” He sighed.

“So?” I asked.

He blinked then he opened my thighs. He scented my center and he looked up.

“I am dizzy.” He admitted.

“Does our combined sex smell that good?” I asked.

“Hai. Kamis I marked you here too!” he groaned.

“My inner thigh?” I asked.

He laid his ear to my belly and he pulled away. He was trembling and I brazenly opened my thighs wider. He met my eyes and they showed his upset and desire. He scrambled back up my body and I rolled to my stomach. His breathing was rough as his lips kissed my lower back and backside. I groaned as he joined us again. He was gentle this time and he brought me to ecstasy. We stayed that way for several more hours and I finally left him sleeping as I returned to Sendai. I had bathed well and I went to check on Naraku. He was still asleep and I smiled. I came by his side and he stirred. His eyes met mine and profound lust was reflected.

“Do you need a reminder?” I asked.

“Hai.” He said in a deep voice.

I again brought him to heal and the whole of the castle must have known. I was sprawled across the futon with Naraku when Ishin returned. His eyes were wide and I popped my head up. I gave him a warm smile and he looked puzzled.

“I am insatiable and I am craving kumo for my dinner.” I said licking my lips.

“Truly?” he asked.

“Hai. My body is in need.” I said rolling to my back.

“Then I shall have to eat inu and give you the deep kiss.” He said lewdly.

“Come my love. Make an honest mate out of me.” I said.

“Hai. What did you do to Naraku?” he asked softly.

“Worked him over. I told him to go ahead and fuck her but it would be my name he called.” I said smirking.

“Kamis Asuna! He is not waking up!” Ishin said astonished.

“I wore him into a coma.” I said languidly.

He came over to me and I was curious if I could pull a complete joining from him. I smiled at him lazily and he began taking me in his need and lulling passion. I ended up taking him to different heights and he too lost his mind. I lay between Ishin and Naraku as both slept heavily. I saw Nobu at the door and I slipped from them. I slipped on a dressing gown and he pulled me down the hall. He pulled me into his apothecary and made me sit. He opened my dressing gown and exposed my belly. He pressed his ear and he sighed. He met my eyes and I smiled at him.

“Hang your self hatred my love.” I said getting up.

He started to say something and I stood. I went in search of Naraku and Ishin. I needed to find the bastard as he had hurt me badly. Naraku was sitting up and staring out into space.

“You are still out of it.” I said smirking.

“Where did you learn those things?” he asked dumbly.

“As Akana. The Egyptians were very pleasure seeking and I pulled on my memories.” I shrugged.

“You did things that the wraith did.” He said turning red.

“It was me. I would not hurt you.” I said softly.

“I know.” He mumbled.

“Should you like me to do other things Naraku? Should you like to see how well I know your body my love? I was trying to be noble and neither of us is noble are we?” I asked bluntly.

His eyes widened and he clutched the bed clothes. I stood there smirking and he felt stretched and enveloped at the moment.

“Kamis stop!” he groaned out.

“I only wish to bring you joy my heart.” I said in a seductive tone.

“Wrong! I was wrong!” he cried.

Ishin woke up and stared at me. I was not even touching Naraku and he was sweating. He looked intrigued as his brother was trying not to groan. Ishin stood up and moved to me. He grabbed me and tipped my head back. His lips found my throat and I stared at Naraku. His eyes were blazing and he snarled out suddenly. Ishin looked over with interest and he was catching his breath. Ishin released me and I went to Naraku. I pressed his lips to mine and he again snarled. He had me underneath him and pinned as he ravished my mouth. He was out of control as he took me. Ishin watched rapt and I knew that Akane would have a hell of a time comparing.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I was in a very good mood as I was hunting Magatushi. The bastard had been injured badly by me and I had raided an oni settlement. They were fearsome creatures as I slashed and tore through their warriors. Yuudai was by my side as we moved through the ancient type of youki. I finally made it to the leader and had my fang pressed to his throat.

“The creature that was once an oni named Magatushi, where is he?” I demanded.

“You think I shall respond to threats from an inu?” he snarled.

“You will die.” I said snapping.

“Fine then kill me!” the blue skinned fiend snarled.

I felt no remorse and I shoved my fang deep into his gut. His eyes widened as he realized that he was a dead man.

“You live in dank holes where not even the shadows dwell. Your kind is evil and without conscious.” I growled.

“I am not the one that attacked a peaceful settlement. You wish to garner the wrath of our greatest leader? You fool!” he grinned as he slowly faded.

I went to strike again and Yuudai held me wrist. We had been tied in an inu ceremony only recently. He had formally adopted Yuzuna as his own. His presence calmed me and I shoved the oni away.

“I will grant pardon to any that tells me where the bastard hides away!” I growled.

“There are rumors that he hides in the mountains near Akita.” A young male said.

The others were snarling suddenly and I motioned for the older male oni to be put to death. I grabbed up the youth and stared at him.

“You are an adult?” I demanded.

“Hai!” he cringed.

“Then leave this place and warn your kind that I will destroy their way of life until they turn out Magatushi! I will not stop until he lies dead at my feet!” I hissed.

The young male scrambled and Yuudai turned me. I was shaking in rage and I spit at the dead leader.

“Chuusin! Calm yourself.” He said firmly.

“I want him dead!” I said glaring at him.

“What did he do to you?” he asked.

“Nothing that I did not survive.” I said clenching my jaw.

It had been three months since I had reconciled with the three kumo males that I loved more than my own life. Nobu would try in vain to hear a babe when he was sure he had gotten my pregnant. I masked heavily and not a soul knew of my secret. I would path to my son constantly and I could feel his subtle movements now. Nobu knew I was keeping something from him and we had epic arguments where I coaxed him into passionate rutting. He was my pleasure and my haven as he was in Ayana's life. I had no intentions of sharing anything of my son with anyone at the moment as he was entirely mine. I was naming him Shinobu and I made sure he knew his name. I allowed Yuudai to lead me away and I looked back at the devastation. I had been in the inugami temple praying for forgiveness of murdering my innocent pup but I knew I would have been filled with hatred. Magatushi's attack of me had put me at first in a major depression and Nobu's words had fired up my spirit. I was wrathful and I knew it was because I had been violated terribly. I said nothing about it and took my revenge. Sheng's forces had not fared well recently either and I was in warrior mode. I ported Yuudai and I back to the Western palace and I went to the spring to clean the blood and gore off of me. He joined me and our personal life had taken on our old ways. I loved him and very much but what I felt for my kumo and my tiger left me staggering. He hurriedly washed up and kissed me. He got out and I knew he wanted to inspect the troops. He slipped out and I put my hands to my belly.

“Now haha will kill this beast and we shall be safe. I want to give you a city as your principality. Should you like to rule?” I whispered.

I felt flutters and I smiled softly. I growled low in my throat and he was active. I sensed a presence and I looked over my shoulder.

“With whom do you speak?” he said.

“No one.” I said to Nobu.

“What are you keeping from me? Do you carry?” he asked.

“No. I am making plans is all. Join me.” I said in a low tone.

“Not here Asuna.” He said gently.

I stood up and grabbed him. He fell in and came up sodden. He growled softly and looked angry.

“Sorry. You slipped.” I said playfully.

“Uh huh.” He snapped.

I gave him a dazzling smile and I made sure that I was on display for him. He sighed and waded over to me. He kissed me softly and he again tried in vain to sense my boy.

“We melded! I know you should have gotten pregnant! Did you miscarry and not tell me to spare my feelings?” he asked in confusion.

“No. I am fine and you are handsome. Quit pouting.” I said getting out of the spring.

“You are lying to me and I feel it!” he snapped.

“I am allowed privacy the same as you my lover. You are allowed to feel petulant and ill humored. I on the other hand have oni and Panyu inu to put down.” I said wrapping a yukata around me.

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

“You said I had lessons to learn and you were right. Now I am for the battlefield. Stay handy in case I come back bleeding.” I said lightly.

“I hate this!” he growled at me.

“You hate what?” I asked.

“I hate you keeping from me. I hate that you feel the need to lie to me.” He said in anger.

“That is not my problem my dearest. These are your feelings and you are entitled but I am my own person the same as you. How is Aya doing?” I asked.

“She is a weepy mess. She is definitely keeping her son. Bihua has been trying to see her and she damn near killed him. He does not get funnel females.” Nobu said as he dragged himself out of the water.

He proceeded to strip out of his sodden linen haori and hakama. I raised a brow and he smiled.

“Gardens. I hate ruining good silk when linen shall do. The herbs I use must be grown.” He said shrugging.

“I see. Well I am off for blood baths. I will be in Sendai tonight.” I said bowing.

He put on a yukata and nodded. I left the spring and went to my chambers. I had a map on the floor and plotting oni settlements when I found them. I laid on my futon a moment and connected to Shinobu. I was freely pathing when Nobu poked his head in. I looked annoyed and he was looking at me suspiciously. He had not caught me but I lay on my side for him to have a view.

“You are a seductress but I am on to your ways.” He teased.

“You can go back to your gardens now.” I said raising a brow.

“You keep trying to tempt me and I am tempted.” He said stepping in.

He leaned down and licked a nipple. I grinned at him and he looked at me funny. He laid me back and scented along my sternum. I knew the pheromones were more than weak but he had a trained nose.

“You are trying to give off kumo pheromones!” he growled.

“So? I was a kumo before remember? I do that from time to time.” I said wickedly.

He lost his temper and stepped back. I managed to make him insane with anger at times and it amused me to no end. I laid there and stared at him.

“What would your Yasu say if I called him here?” he demanded.

“He would say that I am healthy.” I said.

He gave me a cold look and left. I laughed and pressed my hand to my belly. I jumped up and got dressed and decided to go to Sendai. Ishin knew of Nobu and he was more than fine with it. I appeared behind the funnel lord and he jumped.

“Asuna! Damnit onna…do not scare a kumo!” he said in irritation.

“I want you to come here. I want you to feel something.” I said smirking.

He eyed me and I pressed his hand to my belly and unmasked. His eyes widened and he looked wistful.

“You have not told him?” he whispered.

“No. I do not want to right now. I tell you because you can keep my secret.” I said holding his face.

“I love Nobu as my brother. You know this and I know he will be furious with you.” Ishin said holding me tightly.

“You know what? I do not care. He is perpetually in a sullen mood and I am not. I shall have to share soon but right now sense him will you?” I asked.

He opened my haori and pressed his ear to my belly. He smiled as he sensed him.

“He is already pathing strongly. You have been connecting with him.” He said smiling.

“Hai. His name is Shinobu.” I said running my fingers through Ishin's hair.

“I know my friend and he will be affected deeply.” My funnel lord stated.

I had gleefully gone through all his palaces and gotten rid of every last hair tie. He had been put out with me and I got to see his luxuriant tresses down.

“You still have not replaced them.” I said with a small smile.

“No. I have not had time. You are mischievous my darling.” He said standing and kissing me lightly.

“Well my dear I must be off to track Magatushi in Akita.” I said.

He nodded and I ported out to the Western town of Akita. There was a breed of domestic inu named after the town. I was moving with stealth in the wilds around the large town. I remembered hiding out around here when Hikari had been born. I moved further into the forests to locate my prey.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Aya was miserable. She could not wield a katana effectively and her body ached all over. Her son was kicking what felt like her kidneys and she went to find Nobu.

“Brother! Can you give me something?” she asked softly as she walked into his apothecary.

“Hai. Sit.” He said as he began mixing a draught.

“Thank you. I wish I could have him now!” she growled.

“Another two months Aya. I have seen onna get even more miserable.” He said honestly.

“I shall kill him. I shall rip his male parts off and stuff them down his throat!” she hissed.

“Aya! Calm please and please do not mention ripping male parts off!” he snapped.

“Sorry.” She said grousing.

“Have you seen Bihua at all?” he asked.

“Once when I nearly strangled him.” She said in disdain.

“He will fight you for the babe.” Nobu said shaking his head.

“Then you shall have to stitch me up when I rip his testicles off!” She snarled.

Nobu widened his eyes and shook his head. His sister was fierce and she had always loved him. She got up after drinking the draught and she moved to the door. She was very uncomfortable he could see and she held onto the wall. She walked out and he sat back. He heard screaming suddenly and he ran out to see Aya trying to kill Bihua. He ran and pulled her off of him.

“I hate you! I will kill you!” she screamed as Nobu held her.

“I want to feel my babe!” Bihua snapped.

“Let me go Nobu.” She yelled.

She jerked out of her brother's arms and came at Bihua. She was hitting and spitting at him. He grabbed her arms and held them behind her back.

“What do you hate more Aya, the fact that I acted on your thoughts or that I wanted you to have my son?” he snarled.

“No one has ever dared to do what you did. Funnel males do not rape minds in the midst of rutting without invitation.” She screamed.

“I had to take the lash from your lord in order to see this babe born and I will see my son born!” he said grabbing her jaw.

“Bihua unhand my sister!” Nobu called.

“What are you going to do healer? Are you going to poison me?” Bihua asked in contempt.

Aya grabbed his male parts and squeezed till he shouted in pain.

“You sorry son of a bitch!” she growled in his ear.

“Let go Aya!” he growled.

“Then never see me again arsehole!” she hissed.

“Let me go!” Bihua shrieked.

“Leave me and my son alone you fucking recluse.” She said glowering.

“You will not keep me from my son!” he snarled.

“I said leave me alone.” She said in fury.

He grabbed her hair and pulled her head back. He had become madly in love with the funnel onna and he was insane at the moment. Aya met his eyes and the look of hatred and intense desire crossed her features.

“I want you funnel.” He said forcefully.

Nobu made noises of anger and Aya reached up and pulled him down and began attacking his lips. Nobu left the hall and Bihua was grabbing at her. Their claws were gouging the other as it became more intense. Bihua dragged her into a secluded hall and turned her around. He stripped the kimono from her and pressed his hands to her belly. He joined with her violently and kept his hands on her belly. The general of the combined kumo was snarling and growling as Bihua brought her closer to the edge. He had long since joined with her mind and their son's too. She began gasping and whimpering as they both shattered together.

“I want to be with you.” He said in a harsh breath.

“Never take me against my will again!” she commanded.

“I swear.” He said as he began sucking on her pulse.

“Oh Kamis.” She groaned.

They ended up back in chambers and overwhelming the other.

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

I came back to Sendai bloodied and torn up. I had faced him again and he was still healing from our last encounter. I made it to the courtyard and I leaned against a column. I heard shouts and I was picked up by Naraku. He brought me to Nobu and gently laid me on the futon.

“He swears he will tear you up.” I mumbled.

“Where was he?” Naraku demanded.

“Close to Akita.” I said softly.

I watched him port via his miasma and Nobu began pressing cloths to my open wounds.

“You idiot!” he snapped.

“Sorry.” I said as the widow draught made me feel quite good.

“Kamis you always end up a mess!” he said exasperated.

I reached for him and I guided his head down to my belly. I was incredibly relaxed at the moment and I heard him gasp softly. My hands were going through his hair and he looked up.

“Why would you keep this from me?” he demanded.

“Wanted to make sure I did not loose him. I wanted to make sure I did not kill him like I did Sakina. You did not have to tell me that I did.” I said in a whisper.

“He is so healthy! He is so happy!” he cried as he looked at me.

“Hai. Path his name; he knows his name is Shinobu.” I said closing my eyes.

I saw Nobu become quite emotional as he connected with our son. He kicked me hard as his chichi lovingly caressed my belly. He moved up my body and lifted my head up. His lips latched onto mine in sudden need. It did not seem he cared where we were and the emotion was intense. He gently lowered my head down and slowly pulled back.

“I love you.” He stated then lowered his mouth to my sternum and breathed in my unmasked scents.

His air changed drastically as he began licking at my skin and nipping my breasts.

“You have to mask right now. Kamis your scent is making me feral.” He said hoarsely.

“Is that bad?” I asked.

“I need you.” He whispered in a strange voice.

He gently held me to him and we appeared inside a funnel shaped web. He was gently taking my silks off in the confined space. His lips found my neck and his hands cupped my breasts.

“I am loosing my mind.” He said in my ear.

“Why?” I asked.

“Never scented an onna quite like this. Nobuyuki is inu dominant.” He said tipping my head back.

“Shinobu is kumo dominant?” I asked as his fingers rolled my nipples.

“Hai.” He stated grazing my skin.

We were touching and kissing madly within his tight space. He pushed into me and I gasped loudly. I grabbed a hand and sucked on his fingers. He moved within me gently but quickly.

“I need more.” He growled suddenly.

“What?” I asked roughly.

He pulled back and turned me around. He lowered his head and began suckling my breasts and I closed my eyes. His true nature was fully in control and he was giving into his need to taste me and touch me. Our lovemaking became frenzied and I felt my body react. He brought his fingers to my lips and I licked up my release. He groaned out as he climaxed. He pressed his forehead to mine and released his breath.

“We have managed to fulfill one of my fantasies.” He groaned.

“I am glad.” I said smiling.

“You are happy about our son. You realize this is much too soon. You must give your body a break.” He said holding onto me.

“I will. I can handle a kumo babe.” I said.

“Did you intend to get pregnant?” he asked.

“Do not think that I do not want him but no I had no intentions of it. I wanted you desperate for me as I was for you.” I said honestly.

“I have never lost control like that before. I always manage to become quite unlike myself around you.” He said blushing.

“Is this bad?” I asked.

“No. I just become so wanton. Come I need to see to my gardens and you need to rest; healer's orders.” He said wistfully.

“As you command.” I said softly.

He ported us to Sendai and he could not seem to stop touching me. He finally released me and I went to my chambers. I put on heavier armor then what I normally wore and concentrated on Naraku and ported to his side. He looked at me surprised and nodded.

“I am assuming that you have not found him?” I asked.

“No. How do you find him?” he asked me.

“He has been finding me.” I said shrugging.

He growled and I could feel his ire about his inability to protect me. I eyed him and he narrowed his eyes.

“Ask the questions you want to ask Asuna.” He stated.

“How is Akane?” I asked sweetly.

“How can you ask that after what we have recently shared?” he growled.

“How could you have rutted her?” I asked flippantly.

“Easy. I do not have to share. How is Nobu?” he asked just as flippantly.

“He is well. Any other lovers?” I asked.

“Not at this time but I shall be sure to let you know.” He said sarcastically.

“Let us see if your kumo onna can make you scream.” I said smirking.

“No, she would be unable to do what you did.” He acknowledged.

“I love you.” I said in his ear.

“I have always loved you koi.” He sighed.

I felt Magatushi first and I was shoved forward hard. Naraku whirled quickly and stabbed the former oni in the leg. The beast went down and I pulled my fang. Magatushi was concentrating on me and managed to stand and jump me. I was snarling in hatred as I slashed his beautiful face.

“You bitch! You managed quite the damage you fucking whore!” he snarled.

He grabbed a bunch of hair and yanked forcefully. I felt him tear some out and I yelped. He wrapped a hand around my throat and his claws sank into my throat. I tore at his hands as Naraku extended his fingers into weapons. They pierced Magatushi in five different places and my mate snarled in fury. He jerked his hand back and Magatushi fell backwards. The former oni fell upon Naraku and the ensuing battle was horrific. They were both morphing and snarling as they bloodied the other. I could not get a clear entrance into the melee and I watched helplessly as they tore each other. I heard Naraku grunt as Magatushi ripped into his flesh and released a red shoki. I was amazed that the oni still had his shoki from his previous incarnation. Naraku fell and I ran to him. I pressed my hand to Magatushi and released the supaida nami. Magatushi was thrown twenty feet back and it seemed his body blew apart but I knew better. I knelt at my dark mate's side and he was in tremendous pain. I was thrown backwards and I landed badly. I heard a bone snap and I looked at my leg; the lower portion was angled badly. Naraku grimaced and he tried to come near me. Magatushi looked wrathful and he came to me.

“Watch Naraku!” he laughed cruelly.

“No!” he hissed as he tried to stand.

Magatushi shoved Naraku backwards with his hand that wrapped around my mate. Naraku snarled and hissed. I concentrated and Magatushi growled loudly as the vein in his temple seemed to throb.

“Becoming aware to your yoki slut!” he grinned.

I started to will a barrage of rocks at him and he dove for my throat again. He tore my hakama and ripped my armor from me. He stomped on my leg and I howled in pain. I put up a fight and I saw Naraku attempting to absorb the yoki of Magatushi's body parts. The former oni plunged fingers into me and I yelled out. It was not about rutting but humiliation and exacting a great amount of pain. My claws sank into his upper arms and I flooded him with Dakkasou. I drained my body of my toxin and the foul beast screamed in pain as he staggered back. Naraku managed to work himself loose and he released a huge amount of miasma. He pulled me to him quickly and we disappeared. I connected with Shinobu and he was safe but I was battered as badly as Naraku. We were in Sendai and my mate fell next to me.

“Beloved.” I said as I dragged myself to him.

“I will live. I need to regenerate.” He said breathing hard.

I cut my wrist and I tried to press it to his mouth and he snarled. I held his head and made him take it in.

“Do not be retarded! You know my blood has healing properties. I know you detest the idea of blood drinking but this will help you!” I yelled.

He closed his eyes as he drank in my life force and I felt the general drain on my own power. I pulled my wrist back and his breathing was more even. I lay back on the floor and suppressed the pain. He crawled over to me and stared down. I heard voices and knew we would be helped. I felt myself picked up and I saw Ishin pick up Naraku. We were taken to Nobu's apothecary and I felt my leg being pulled straight. I cried out as the bone was set and I felt silk binding the break together and acting as a splint. Nobu held up my head and gave me the widow draught and I saw him repeat the process with Naraku.

“My lord you need to be abed for awhile. This shoki is caustic.” Nobu said softly.

“Hai.” Naraku nodded.

“Brother what possessed you?” Ishin asked.

“My fault.” He groaned as his skin was cleansed.

“Inu?” Ishin asked.

“Fine. I will be fine.” I said with closed eyes.

“He keeps violating you!” Naraku snarled.

“Pain! He wants me to feel pain the same as you.” I said lifting my head.

“You need not go after him anymore!” Naraku said in a huge fit of rage.

“I will go after him as it is my honor that was affronted!” I yelled back.

“Hang your honor!” Naraku seethed.

“Like you hang yours when it is convient?” I retorted.

“You are impossible Asuna! I bedded Akane because the rate you go you will be dead before the century is out!” He said slapping me.

“You are funny! Kiss my backside!” I hissed.

“Bend over!” Naraku snapped.

“Enough!” Ishin and Nobu said in unison.

Naraku glared at me and he managed to stand and limp out. I was growling and Ishin shushed me.

“Asuna your leg was mangled horribly.” Nobu said.

“Fix it.” I growled.

“You have to stay off of it to fix it as you put it!” Nobu said in a snippy tone.

I lay back exasperated and wanted to kill Magatushi. I could not believe that we could not defeat him and I was furious that I should keep getting hurt. My leg was splinted and Ishin picked me up and brought me to our futon. Naraku was already fast asleep. Ishin sighed as he helped me undress.

“I did not expect you to engage him head on like that!” he said in an angry tone.

“Why not?” I asked raising a brow.

“You have a babe within you.” Ishin said fiercely.

“This has to end! That creature has been loose for a few years now and we have lived our lives as if everything was fine! This has to end Ishin or we truly will not be safe.” I said flatly.

“I get that.” He said sitting.

“Not only does this have to end but I will end it! The jewel is still in existence and by the Kamis it will not be.” I said in a loud growl.

Naraku stirred then fell back asleep.

“You two are falling to pieces.” Ishin said looking away.

“Hai I guess we are. I know not what else to do.” I said sighing.

“Rest. Nobu said that your leg would need a week to fully heal. He also said that if you intended to try and leave again then he would drug you silly.” Ishin said smirking.

“I dare him.” I said flippantly.

“Sleep inu!” he commanded.

“Hai.” I grumbled.

I lay on my side and watched Naraku sleep. His wavy black hair was all around him and I lifted it so that I could see his scar. He was heavily sedated and I saw the infamous mottled skin. Ishin too bore one but his was much smaller. I refused to loose him and I put my hand to his side. I ported us to a very seldom used castle near Kofu. It was small and intimate and very much my mate. He murmured in his sleep and I wrapped my arm around his waist. I lay there and did not sleep. I pushed myself up and traced his ear with a claw. His eyes opened and he rolled to his back.

“Where are we?” he asked softly.

“Your castle in Kofu.” I said just as softly.

“You have never been here.” He said surprised.

“I have in your memories. Go on back to sleep if you wish.” I murmured.

“Why did you bring me here? I have matters in Sendai that need my attention.” He snapped.

I lowered my lips and hovered them over his. His face was indifferent and I was sensing his feelings. He was put out that I had presumed and he was angry that I was injured by Magatushi. He was thinking that we were hopeless. I sat back and pulled myself up slowly. I went to an armoire and I was limping badly. I proceeded to dress in a dark blue yukata. I bowed low and said nothing. I moved to the outside shoji screen and slid it open.

“I am not leaving Ishin. You should probably move your things from our rooms. You two are quite effective at co-ruling and it should remain that way. I pray that you are happy but please refrain for getting angry about my injuries as I am no longer your concern.” I said softly.

“As you wish.” He said pulling himself up.

I nodded and walked out onto the walkway outside. I steeled myself and sighed. I looked at him and his face was blank. I ported out and limped into Ishin's study-office. He looked furious at me and full of concern.

“I have asked Naraku to leave our chambers. He is your brother and I have no wish to interfere in your co-ruling but his feelings are clear. There is a blank in his feelings for me.” I said shrugging.

“Inu do not be rash.” He said standing.

“I knew it would end up something like this. He has a fiery soul but he burns intense and hot at first. We have not had the passion in our relationship for along time. You and I are explosive in all things. Our passion consumes us all the time. You never felt like that with Akane. You loved her and it was comfortable. Naraku used to feel that way about me but it has died. I am saving us any future issue.” I said shrugging.

He was understandably confused and I leaned forward and kissed his lips. He instantly reacted and pressed me against the wall. We were impassioned and he finally pulled back.

“That is my point.” I said breathlessly.

I limped away back to our futon and I moved slowly. Ishin came up beside me and picked me up.

“I did not want this.” He said.

“I know. I care not anymore Ishin. He is and always will be himself. He has changed greatly from his hanyou self but if it is not his way then he will do almost anything to get his will.” I said closing my eyes.

Ishin said nothing and brought me to the futon. He laid me down and I finally did sleep.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I was hunting Magatushi yet again and I was near Yamagata. I was suddenly not in the forest and I realized that I was having a vision. I saw a male with dark brown hair but I did not see his face. I felt malice and quite the devious nature. I was suddenly back and my eyes widened. I heard breathing and I turned.

“History is quite telling.” Asa said.

“Mother what do you want?” I asked turning.

“You are a fool!” she snapped.

“Please! This coming from the onna who has stayed an eternity in a cave!” I said with clenched teeth.

“Impertinent! Go now!” she said gently pushing me back.

I stumbled and fell on my backside. I looked up and it was night. I grumbled and wished I could backhand the bitch. I knew now why I had left when I was Ayana. She was meddlesome and a pain. I walked in the forest and looked around. It was the same forest but it was not the same time.

“Asa! Damn you!” I growled out.

I heard breathing and I felt an arrow whiz by me. I caught the next one midair and broke it. I began growling and I heard running. I gave chase and I knocked a ningen down.

“You should not shoot at a youki ningen. You have no idea what manner of beast I really am!” I snapped.

“Get off of me!” The man snarled.

I stepped back and the man jumped up and pulled a short katana. My mouth dropped open when I saw who it was. I stood before THE Onigumo. His face was near the same as Naraku's and I was shocked.

“Filthy youki!” he snarled.

“Pardon?” I asked almost amused.

“You heard me!” he sneered.

“You are so much better? You are a thief!” I snapped.

“I see it as taking what others really do not need.” He said in an almost growl.

“Put down your arrow ningen and I shall not maim you.” I said in an angry tone.

“What will stop you from maiming me as it is?” he hissed.

“You are not worth of my time.” I said cruelly.

“Arrogant beast!” he snapped.

He went to shoot the arrow and I was almost instantly behind him. I grabbed the bow from him and snapped it like a twig. I wrapped my hand around his throat and did not squeeze. He was beautiful I had to admit to myself but his soul was malicious.

“What are you?” he demanded.

“I am inu.” I said bluntly.

“Put me down inu.” He demanded.

I wanted to laugh at how much Naraku had retained from the ningen that created him. I released him and he looked me over.

“I have never seen a female inu.” He said.

“Bitches are typically kept in the palace.” I said honestly.

“So why are you not on your leash?” he asked amused.

“I like to hunt and I am a warrior. Shall you like to taste my fang?” I asked him.

I pulled Kumosaiga and it pulsed. I looked confused and he stepped back.

“Put that youki blade away!” he snapped in near fury.

I sheathed it and I was very confused. It must have shown on my face and he dared to near me. He fingered my silk haori and it occurred to me that he was sizing up my wealth. I grabbed his wrist and he met my eyes with his sultry brown ones. His were unusual and they were multi faceted. I grew irritated at myself and I felt lust rip through me. We stared at the other and I was again confused.

“You are royalty.” He stated bluntly.

“Hai.” I nodded.

“Well good for you.” He said sarcastically.

He reached out and touched my hair. I scented his lust and I was shocked.

“You are rather pretty for a youki.” He stated.

“I am a taiyouki.” I said in retort.

“A great youki hmmm. Well then I am in luck.” He said flippantly.

The heat between us was evident and I stepped back. I eyed him and he moved forward again.

“Back away ningen!” I yelled.

“You are more than pretty for a canine.” He said suddenly.

He brushed fingertips across my striped cheek and his scent was familiar. I looked at him and I again stepped back.

“Are you frightened?” he asked surprised.

“Hai.” I answered in a whisper.

“Why?” he asked raising a brow.

“You scent like him.” I said in disbelief.

“Who?” he demanded.

“It does not matter. Back away from me.” I commanded in a louder voice.

“Do you know who I am?” he asked suspiciously.

“Onigumo.” I replied.

He seemed surprised and I crossed my arms.

“Hai.” He nodded.

“Why did your parents name you demon spider?” I asked.

“I do not know. I did not know my parents inu. I knew the lash and cane.” He said darkly.

“You dislike all youki?” I asked.

“I know not. I have met lower level beasts.” He admitted.

“Why do you keep staring at me?” I demanded.

“You are very comely.” He said bluntly.

“You are very attractive yourself.” I answered bluntly.

The turn of conversation made me uncomfortable and I stepped back and ended up against a tree. He took the opportunity to press against me. I eyed him to make sure he did not stab me.

“I do not understand why I find you so delectable inu. You are obviously lethal and worth a fortune.” He said brazenly.

“You remind me of someone is all.” I said in a whisper.

“Who?” he demanded.

“Naraku.” I said to see his reaction.

“Hell?” he asked laughing.

“Hai.” I said meeting his eyes.

His smirk was sensuous and his scent was nearly blinding me in lust. I growled as he leaned forward and fingered my ear.

“Stop!” I snapped.

“Such beautiful skin.” He said running his blunt ningen fingernails over my flesh.

I gasped softly and I could hear his thoughts for a moment. He wondered if I had anything of major value on me and wondered what I looked like without my haori.

“Rather lewd thoughts.” I said.

“Telepath? Impressive.” He said softly.

I removed a gold and jade comb from my hair and I dropped it at his feet. I removed two more and repeated my actions. He eyed me and I stared steadily.

“Those are worth more then most ningen see in a lifetime. I shall save us the bloodshed and your death and give them to you.” I said in a low growl.

“Smart mouthed tart. Your males do not put you in place?” he demanded.

“How?” I asked amused.

“Then I shall.” He growled at me.

“You could try.” I said with contempt.

He grabbed my throat and I wrapped my hands around his forearm. The heat was felt by both and I felt a jolt of passion in my loins.

He pulled me forward and instantly melded his lips against mine. I groaned into it and ended wrapping my arms around him. He suddenly stopped and pulled back. He looked surprised and I was sheepish. I moved away and left.

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

I was spying him and I was nearly loosing my mind to my thoughts. I wondered if I had destroyed him in part when I sent his ningen soul to hell. I began to rethink everything and I was terribly confused. This man was in fact part of Naraku. He was what made my mate him and I had deprived him. When Hisashi was fully restored within Naraku then he had become the former kumo lord. I held my head as it ached and I did not sense him come upon me. I was sitting at the base of a tree and he knelt by me.

“I have to have answers. Why are you here in this place?” he demanded.

“To learn a lesson I think. I think I made a mistake.” I said meeting his eyes.

“What mistake?” he said darkly.

“Not your business ningen.” I said getting up.

“Why in the Kamis name do I want to bury myself in your heat?” he asked in a low dark tone.

“I have no idea.” I lied.

“I know you feel it too. I have lived long enough.” He said in a snarly tone.

“How long have you lived?” I asked.

“I am thirty fours years. How old are you?” he asked.

“I am one hundred nineteen.” I replied.

“Young youki?” he asked softly.

“Old enough. You are a male in your prime.” I stated.

“Hai.” He nodded.

I suddenly pinned him to the tree and he gave me a heated look.

“I want to feel you climax as I pound mercilessly in you.” He said brazenly.

“Kamis what have I done?” I asked stepping back.

“What do you mean?” he growled.

“Asa! Asa!” I yelled.

“Have you learned your lesson yet daughter?” she asked from the treetop.

“Hai!” I yelled.

“Goodbye Onigumo.” I said backing up.

“I will see you again.” He said bluntly.

“Hai.” I nodded.

I was suddenly back in the present era and Asa looked at me.

“I killed him. I killed him without thought and he told me before!” I lamented.

“Perhaps Teruyoshi could help.” She said bluntly.

“He is in fact Hisashi and not himself?” I asked.

“That is reality.” She said disappearing.

I was in disbelief and sat down. Tears began to fall from my cheeks at having destroyed the male I loved with forbidden passion. I moved to the base of a tree and I forced myself into Kaito's plane. I was in his residence and I looked for him. I found him in a garden of sorts and he was shocked.

“I killed him! I killed him!” I said shaking.

“Who?” he asked holding me.

“Onigumo. I killed him and I killed who Naraku was.” I said.

“Was that not a good thing?” he asked.

“Through the years it has not been the same. I loved Hisashi but as Sorami. I am her but not. Do you not see? I fell in love with my hanyou and that is who he was. He was right and I was arrogant. I have to restore him but how?” I asked.

“This is beyond my experience my love. I deal in youki souls and not ningen. They are more fragile then us.” He said frankly.

“Teruyoshi?” I asked.

“Why would he help a youki?” he asked.

“He has in the past. Kaito get him please!” I cried.

He sighed and he faded. I walked the gardens and I pulled myself back to my body. I awoke and the Shikyo Konjou stood before me. He looked at me with interest and I paced.

“I need Onigumo. I need him restored to Naraku.” I said bluntly.

“What do I get?” he asked.

“What do you want?” I asked perplexed.

“I will call upon you in the future. Know that you owe a death kami.” He said bluntly.

“What will happen?” I asked.

“I imagine he will be very confused and angry. I would expect a row.” He said.

I continued to pace and I felt a panic then horrendous anger. My head felt as if it would explode and he was behind me. His face was wrathful and he was beyond furious. Naraku shoved me and slapped me rather hard. I fell back and he was on me. He held my jaw and it hurt terribly.

“How dare you! How dare you!” he snarled.

“Dare what?” I asked not understanding.

“How dare you just meddle with my soul! This! What is this?” he snarled pressing his hand to my belly.

“Do not harm him because you are angry with me.” I said suddenly afraid.

“I remember but then I am hazy. What did you do?” he growled.

“Onigumo. You tried to tell me that I had taken from you but I did not understand. Hate me but you are you now. You are the real Naraku.” I said shaking.

“I am so confused right now! How could you? You betrayed me again?” he snapped as he slapped me.

“I thought I was saving you.” I said freely crying.

“Ishin is my brother but not. This life I lead; it is not me!” he growled.

“Naraku you have a good life!” I said trying to calm down.

He hauled me up and searched my face. There was that simmering anger that I had known in the past and it was painful to see.

“Get out of these!” he said ripping my haori.

“Naraku stop!” I yelled.

“I want to see you. I want to see your body!” he growled in a fearsome way.

He ripped the stays to my top and bottoms. His hand was splayed across my belly. Fury was his theme as he cupped my breasts and then my sex. He saw Ishin's marks and his face grew hateful. He shed his own haori and handed it to me. I put it on and I was shaking.

“My memories are jumbled. You backstabbing bitch!” he said grabbing my wrists.

“Stop!” I yelled.

He produced his miasma cloud and we were pulled in. He laid me down and I recognized the Northern Castle. I choked and gasped as he filled me. I began shaking as he slowly moved. His lovemaking was different and it was dangerous. I flooded him immediately and our yoki was crashing.

“How dare another touch you without my approval!” he said in anger.

“No.” I mewled.

“You are mine, do you hear me? You are mine little inu and you will remember it!” he growled in my ear.

I shrieked as I suddenly and violently climaxed. He grunted and buried himself as he too released.

He pulled back and began looking me over. He shook his head and snarled.

“No cohesion! I cannot think as one right now.” He growled.

“I am sorry! I should have heeded you. I should never have talked you into giving half yourself up. I had convinced myself that your ningen self hated me.” I said in a tired voice.

“I do! I hate you and love you. I cannot think straight!” he hissed at me.

“You remember these past several years?” I asked.

“Hai! I remember. I remember my sons being murdered and you taking part in killing part of me!” he said furiously.

“If you hate me then leave me but I realized the truth.” I said looking down.

“How did you realize?” he said narrowing his eyes.

“You are a lord and you acted as Hisashi.” I said.

“I am the same as you in that I am him but Kamis! I have lived in this life and I am part ningen as much as part of me detests it!” he said glowering.

I stood ready to port and he moved fast and pinned me to the wall.

“Where do you think you are going my beautiful inu? What does my meddlesome bitch think she is doing now?” He asked in a seductively dangerous voice.

“It is obvious you hate me as you did before. I have no wish to feel your wrath. Somehow you are more powerful.” I said trying to move away from him.

He stepped back and went to his armoire. He proceeded to dress and he again came at me. He held me in a painful grip and ported us to Sendai.

“Did you enjoy my touch as my ningen self?” he demanded.

“I thought you as beautiful as you are now.” I admitted.

“Dank and dark though. You want to know what my bleeding ningen self is imagining for my inu?” he demanded of me.

“What?” I asked in a whisper.

“I want you on that desk I have sat at and I want your legs wrapped around my hips as I make you comply with me.” He growled.

“Naraku!” I said backing up.

“I became a deluded fool! Ishin!” he yelled in anger.

“What are you doing?” I asked suddenly.

Ishin came down the hall and he saw Naraku with a powerful grip.

“What in Kamis name?” he asked.

“Lord Ishin, I believe I should introduce myself properly.” Naraku said as his eyes glowed bright crimson.

“What do you mean?” Ishin asked suspiciously.

“Onigumo kumo!” he growled.

“What the hell?” Ishin asked stunned.

“Hai. I believe you may have glimpsed me in the past but hai I am within this body kumo. You touch my mate and allow your kumo healer to touch her! You think I will allow this?” he said clutching me tighter.

“You are in part Hisashi!” Ishin growled.

Naraku erupted a tentacle from his body and wrapped it around Ishin and flung him quite far. My mouth was wide open and I tried to free myself.

“You are hurting me!” I screamed.

“You had better stay away from her kumo. I will kill you.” Naraku said coldly.

“What the hell has happened brother?” Ishin asked.

“What has happened is that I am whole now! I will continue in my capacity as your co lord but you will not touch her ever again.” He sneered.

“So says the bandit? I have news Onigumo but if you think I shall give her up then you are a stupid fool!” Ishin hissed.

Nobu and Aya walked in on the scene and I was trying to free myself from Naraku. I saw him turn his wrathful face to Nobu and the healer narrowed his eyes.

“I want Mizuki here now and Kenji. We are going home.” He said in my ear.

“Aya could you retrieve Mizuki and Kenji?” I asked in a staid tone.

“My lady?” she asked shocked.

“She did not stutter kumo whore!” Naraku snarled.

Aya looked angry but then Ishin stepped forward.

“I know not why you think you can come here and demand anything ningen!” Ishin hissed.

“I tire of you!” Naraku said going for his throat.

“No!” I screamed as I ran between them.

Naraku's tentacle impaled me and he pulled it back horrified. I clutched at Ishin as I went to my knees. Nobu ran to my side but I watched in horror as my hanyou struck him through the right side of his chest. I was gasping as I clutched at Nobu.

“No!” I screamed as he dragged me off.

“Do not! Asuna, I swear I will kill them both!” he snarled in my ear.

“Why are you doing this?” I asked crying.

“Tekeshi asked me! Yuudai spoke with me as a man. We worked out our issues and I approved. These beasts took what did not belong. Hai it has been years but then I have not truly been here have I?” he growled.

“You have as your youki self!” I snapped.

“I was not even subjugated! I was gone! You took half of me away and you expect me to act like I did yesterday? No my little inu; you bound yourself to me and you made sure I lived after the Shikon no Tama. I am your master and not the other way around!” he said tilting my head back.

His words took seconds and Ishin had ported out with Nobu. I knew him and he would come after me. Mizuki appeared with Kenji and she looked utterly confused.

“Daughter! Come now.” He commanded.

“Chichi what is going on?” she asked.

“I said come now Mizuki. Son now!” Naraku said fiercely.

Kenji immediately came to his sire and Mizuki too. He produced his miasma and pulled us all in. I could feel the chaos in his mind at the moment and he needed calm. He would withdraw to regroup then deal. He took us to the Northern Castle and Mizuki stared at him. He growled at her; she grabbed Kenji and fled the room. He was pacing and holding his head.

“I need a healer Naraku.” I said pressing a kosode to my wound.

“The kumo. Go to him.” He sneered.

“You are being hateful!” I yelled.

He came at me and held my jaw.

“I cannot think right now. I cannot meld the two!” he hissed.

“I am sorry. I was trying to do right by you for once.” I said as tears fell down my face.

“I have to pull back and meld myself. You will call the kumo healer here but you will not leave. My barrier will keep you in.” he growled.

He ported out and I was actually afraid. I concentrated on Nobu. He was alive but in pain. He was surprised to feel me and I showed him my wound in his mind's eye. He came to me suddenly and pressed on the hole hard.

“What has happened to him?” he asked in disbelief.

“Asa came to me. She sent me back to Onigumo.” I said looking away.

“She is not like us Asuna. Her priorities are totally different. Are you telling me that he is hanyou again?” he asked me.

“Hai. I had no real clue but he is more powerful as a hanyou. I cannot explain it but that is the Naraku that sired Mizuki.” I said shivering.

“He is evil!” he snarled.

“Hush! He is still here.” I said in fear.

“You wanted this creature back?” Nobu asked in disgust.

“Stop! I love Naraku okay? I do not remember the times before him and I did betray him.” I said looking away.

“How? By restoring Hisashi? I think I prefer the old lord to this thing!” he growled.

“He is not a thing! Damn it you do not understand.” I cried.

“How can I? This hanyou is dangerous and malevolent and cruel.” He said using his silk.

“Nobu you have to stay away. You have to keep Ishin away right now.” I said worried.

“Ishin is furious and out of his mind right now.” Nobu said.

“Do you love me?” I asked coldly.

“Hai! Do not question my love. Question the hanyou's!” he snapped.

“Then stay away.” I demanded.

“You carry my son!” he hissed.

“Hush!” I said pressing my hand to his mouth.

He growled and he crossed his arms. I begged him with my eyes and he sighed. He ported via his shoki cloud. I lay on my side and Mizuki slipped in.

“Chichi is different.” She said softly.

“His is hanyou again.” I said in a tired voice.

“He is raging.” She said gently.

“Sleep for now my sweet.” I said closing my eyes.

She watched her mother slip into sleep and she ported to her chichi. She was not afraid of him at all in any form. His eyes opened and he growled.

“Chichi?” she asked.

“Hai.” He mumbled.

“Chichi can you take on your humanoid form and talk to me?” she asked.

His miasma swallowed him and he appeared in his normal form. He sat along a wall and waited for her to speak.

“Chichi are you hanyou again?” she asked.

“I should have stayed this way.” He muttered.

“Haha did not mean to hurt you.” She said.

“Mizuki you know not of what you speak.” He snapped.

“Hai I do chichi. Do you remember that Magatushi is around?” she asked.

He looked confused then looked up and met her eyes. She could see in his face something she had not seen for along time.

“I am not a monster baby girl. The others will know who is her first mate.” He said flatly.

“You intend to go back to Sendai?” she asked.

“Eventually. I want her to myself for awhile. I am so angry right now and I am trying to blend it all.” He sighed.

“Do you remember Akane?” she asked.

Again he looked puzzled and then the look on his face was one of fury.

“Do you truly love haha? I mean does the ningen part really love?” she asked.

“I get so angry at her and her ways. There has never been a time that I did not love her. As Onigumo did have feelings for the miko he also had a violent attraction to your mother.” He admitted.

“Hai.” She said bowing.

“I love you my girl.” He said.

She turned and gave him a brilliant smile and left him alone. His head ached and he felt anguish. He could not control the feelings of betrayal he was experiencing. He had no idea why he could not give her up. He could not breathe at the thought but he intended to make this whole situation with kumo much different. He felt disgust at the memories of touching the kumo onna. He sighed and made himself stand. He went to his chambers and she was fast asleep. He went to her and he was having memories of seeing her as the ningen alone. Primal lust welled up in him and his mind was lost a moment. He remembered valuable gold and jade combs. He shook his head again and he went to her. He spread open his haori and grimaced at the wound in her shoulder. He slowly stripped out of his clothes and he gathered her to him. She was slowly coming to and he lowered his lips to her chest. Memories of their first years together came to mind and he became more morose.

I opened my eyes and he was holding me to him. He saw that I was awake and he lifted me up and brought me down his member slowly. My mouth dropped open and I trembled. Naraku held me tightly as he lifted me up and brought me down hard. I had to gasp as he looked at me intensely. Old and very deep emotions welled up. His claws dragged across my back and he began a low growl. He took a palm and pressed his claw into my palm. Blood spilled and he brought it to his mouth. I shook as he lapped at the wound with his tongue. He pressed my memories and pulled on them. I groaned as he pulled from me the very painful and very emotional things. His power was incredible or his power over me; I was unsure of what it was but for me it was profound. His eyes took on a very lustful sheen and he stared at me hard. I was confused and he pressed his claw into my nub. He released his miasma and I screamed which he promptly swallowed in a deep kiss. His miasma was more powerful then any kumo venom. My body was sweating quite suddenly and hypervenelated. I began experiencing unimaginable pleasurable tremors.

“Do I bring you pleasure?” he asked in my ear in a quivering tone.

“Hai! Hai!” I said nearly screaming.

“Was I not good enough?” he asked in anguish.

“Hate me. You hate me.” I managed.

“Have you not loved before even if it was irrational?” he groaned out.

“Kikyo.” I snarled out.

My body was on overload and several orgasms coursed from my center to my whole body. He still moved me hard and slow. He held himself back and he was stifling his moans and grunts.

“Asuna? My life. You are my life. You are mine, for both of me.” He snarled out.

My breathing was more than harsh and my vision swam. I felt him guiding me harder and his fingers massaged my ultra sensitive nub. I squeaked and collapsed against him. He cried out as his feelings coursed through us both.

“Wake up!” he demanded.

“No Naraku. I cannot take more.” I groaned.

“Wake up koi.” He demanded again.

My legs were shaking lightly as he pulled me to standing. He brought me to the armoire and pulled out a yukata. He helped me dress and he ported to the cave that he was created in. He moved over to a section in the rock and moved the stones. He pulled out gold and jade combs and put them in my hands.

“That is how much you meant to the bandit!” he said almost coldly.

“You hid out here before.” I said in shock.

“I have wronged you in the past, that is true but all of me loves you violently.” He said in a nasty tone.

“I am sorry.” I said wanting to crawl away.

“These kumo will answer to me.” He said as he walked me backwards into the rock wall.

“Do not cower my inu, it is not you.” He said bluntly.

I glared at him and his hand was splayed over my belly again. His hand slipped between the folds of the yukata and he slipped fingers into my sheath and my eyes widened.

“Still slippery from our lovemaking. Shall I be wicked inu?” he asked in a sultry tone.

“How?” I asked in return.

He was slowly and gently raking claws over my small sweet spot. I nearly lost my mind when I ended up coming hard for him. He lifted his fingers to his mouth and licked at my release. He slid down my body and opened the yukata fully and latched onto my center as lazily licked at me.

“Naraku!” I cried.

He looked at me and his eyes had softened. He grasped my backside and went back to his endeavors. My legs were made of rubber it seemed and he finally allowed me rest. He closed the yukata and we ended up ported to Sendai. Ishin was immediately there and was growling.

“Put your fangs away Lord Ishin. You want this onna?” Naraku asked.

“I have mated her.” He said in a sneer.

“You will take her before me.” Naraku said with a raised brow.

“Pardon?” Ishin asked.

“Hai. I shall watch as you take her and I shall see if I approve.” He said with a ghost of a smile.

“Why would I do this?” Ishin demanded.

“Because you love your brother and this onna. I am her beginning and I am her end you see. You will or you will die.” Naraku said cruelly.

“You think I am afraid of you?” Ishin said narrowing his obsidian eyes.

“I think you should be. I think you a fool if you do not.” He said smirking.

Ishin looked at me and he could see I was exhausted. He was about to say no and I looked over at Naraku.

“He will do it. It is nothing he has not done before.” I said bluntly.

“See you in but a moment.” Naraku said in a low tone to Ishin.

Naraku dragged me to the chambers that we had shared. His eyes were crimson and I was trying to see what he was planning.

“I am seeing if he will follow what I dictate. If he cannot then I shall kill him.” He said in my ear.

“Leave him alone!” I hissed.

“There is my inu. I wondered who this sniveling onna was.” He said pressing me back.

I could not retort as he opened my yukata and he rolled me to my side.

“Still wet and very sensitive to our last encounters. There we go; you like that!” he said as he massaged my perineum.

“Kamis!” I shouted.

I glimpsed Ishin in the door and he was conflicted. Naraku had a wicked grin on his face as his hands massaged my backside.

“This is the real Naraku kumo. See if you can accept it!” he growled softly.

My face contorted as he pushed into my back. He had been massaging and teasing only moments before. He pressed his lips to my ear and I was quivering.

“Your memories koi. No one shall make you scream louder then me.” He said in a heavy groan.

My claws gouged the futon and Naraku groaned loudly for a moment as he remained still. Ishin was torn badly. I knew this heated him but he did not want me hurt.

“You want her Lord Ishin?” Naraku growled out.

“Of course I do.” He snapped.

“Touch her now.” Naraku commanded.

“Move please.” I moaned softly.

“I will koi. So incredible.” He said nuzzling my neck.

Ishin looked sheepish and I felt his fingers find my nub. My eyes were wide and his pleaded with me to forgive him. Naraku was very pleased that Ishin had obeyed.

“Give her your venom kumo.” Naraku hissed out.

Ishin sighed and injected me. I sucked in my breath and I was shaking hard. Naraku was moaning softly and he slowly pulled back and plunged back into me. He and I were lost in the mutual ecstasy and both moaned out.

“Make scream kumo.” My first mate ground out.

Ishin was obviously aroused and he leaned forward and caught my lips. I growled and snarled into it not in anger but savage need. His tongue plundered and mated mine for a few minutes. Ishin was impassioned as he lips and teeth nipped and sucked any exposed skin. Naraku gripped my hip tightly as he was moving a little harder.

“Make her scream kumo!” he snarled.

Ishin looked at him then me. He pathed to me and I was near gone in my beast. He sighed and I felt him slide into center. I lost all breath as my kumo mate looked mortified then his face contorted.

“Asuna?” Naraku growled in my ear.

I ended up releasing a soul wrenching strangled growl-moan and Naraku purred in my ear.

“Harder now.” He said then licked along my ear.

His movements remained smooth but with more speed. Ishin too was becoming almost feral. Something was building unlike anything I had experienced when I lost control of my whole being. I transcended the feelings of just the physical and I was thrown over into something that bordered on pain. I heard Naraku release the most beautiful groan I had heard him make as he lost his seed. Ishin gripped me tightly as he too mentally and physically crashed into me. I did scream as I experienced the most acute and overwhelming climax and I was gone.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I woke up and I had no idea how long I had been passed out. I felt so incredibly blissful and I looked behind me and Naraku was holding me flush to his body and Ishin was nestled next to me in front. We had participated all three many times but never both had me at the same time. Naraku was awake too and he began kissing my neck.

“I love you little inu.” He said in my ear.

“Are you done punishing me yet?” I asked in a whisper.

“I am still thinking of ways to plunder your body and make it remember who I am.” He said darkly and amused.

“Did I pass your test?” Ishin demanded.

“Oh hai. I must say that is an excellent way of making sure our little inu stays quiet.” he said clutching my hip.

“She does speak too much at times.” Ishin said amused.

“Hey!” I snapped.

“I want to be alone with her for a few days kumo.” Naraku said meeting Ishin's eyes.

“Hai.” He nodded.

“Pardon? I have a right to say…” I started to say.

“Hush inu. You decimated half of me remember? Think maybe you should just hush and let me have my way?” he asked.

“Hai!” I grumbled.

“You are still my brother whether you have that side of you or not Naraku. I love my brother.” Ishin said fiercely.

“Then do not interfere.” Naraku said sitting up.

“If this shall prove my devotion to both you and her.” Ishin said bluntly.

“Hai.” He nodded.

Ishin got up and went to the armoire and put on a yukata. He also put brought Naraku and I both our own. He bowed and left the chambers. Naraku was running his hand over my thigh and his face was impassive.

“I want another babe from you.” He said raking his claws across my thigh.

“Sorry I cannot at the moment.” I said.

“I want another son or daughter Asuna.” He said flatly.

“Fine okay?” I said sighing.

“Good. Come my darling; I wish to bathe with you.” He said pulling me up and porting us out.

I was reeling from it all and wondered at Asa's priorities. Naraku had not been this possessive or amorous in a long while. Shinobu was restless and kicking. Naraku pressed his hands to my belly and connected with him. His eyes were softened tremendously and he pressed his lips to my stomach. He kissed it over and over and he looked up at me.

“I have loved you almost as long as I have been alive.” He whispered.

“I am sorry. I should have figured a way of talking with you. I should have not have been so high handed.” I said as tears slipped down my cheeks.

“I cannot hate you or not love you. I know not how that side of me could let you walk away.” He growled.

“Are you suppressing your kumo soul?” I asked surprised.

“I am melding together as one as I would my body Asuna. I know you of me but you know not how I function exactly.” He said lovingly caressing my belly.

He bathed me slowly and managed to bring me again to fulfillment. I needed much sleep and I crawled onto out futon and pass out after I was clean.

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

He watched her sleep and he closed his eyes to rest. Touching her and feeling her made his twin souls feel peace. He was itching to kill something and his memories were becoming clearer to him. He remembered Magatushi hurting her several times and he thought about how he had taken his daughter. His Mizuki had turned out so incredibly beautiful and he was dying to have another girl that he was here to see grow fully. His beautiful daughter was almost fully grown and he knew it. He wondered at Kenji and wondered how soon he would loose his son. He growled in irritation and intended to have several more offspring from her. He found purpose in his children. Anguish welled up in him remembering loosing Nori and Ken'ichi. Mizuki came in and sat by him. She bumped his knee with hers and a smile graced his lips.

“I am glad you are you again chichi. You were alright as a full youki but your more menacing as a hanyou.” She said sweetly.

“Thank you.” He said wryly.

“Can I go home now? I miss the girls and boys.” She said softly.

“Hai go home. Haha and I will be there in a few days. Take Kenji with you.” He commanded.

“Hai. You know she found out she was Ayana.” Mizuki said standing up.

“I was a ningen and a kumo; what is your point?” he asked.

“Lighten up.” She said standing.

He was brooding and his daughter was stunning on every level.

“I miss you being an infant. You did not talk back and needed me. You do not need me as much anymore.” He commented.

“I will always need you chichi. Kenji and I are the only ones like you. You are not an island anymore and you are the first shape shifter of real power. Who else do I learn from?” She asked.

“Kamis you have her way with words. Go on girl.” He said smiling.

She smiled and ran to get Kenji. She grabbed her little brother and ported out to Sendai. She released his hand and moved swiftly to Karu's rooms. She slipped in without knocking and he was sitting practicing his Korean writing. She moved to him and he turned. The look on his face was beautiful and she wrapped her arms around him. They were kissing passionately and he ported them to his sire's palace in Korea. They fell upon his futon there and tore at their silks.

“Missed you. I missed you.” He said roughly in her ear.

“Hai. Please Karu.” She said breathlessly.

They both cried out when they joined. She squeezed her eyes shut as he made love to her. Her body arched as she felt bliss. Karu and she had become even closer and snuck away often. She had not seen Ayumu in several months and left it that way. She moaned out as she tightened on him hard. He tried to hold back but he groaned out too.

“Love you.” He cried in her ear.

“Hai.” She sighed happily.

Karu's hair spilled around them and she was marveling in its beauty.

“Stop! Kamis you are a goose.” He said kissing her nose at her thoughts.

“Will you mark me?” she asked him as he lay beside her.

“Why?” he asked facing her.

“I have been thinking a lot and I want to be with you.” She said.

“Leave it for a few years and I will. Zuki, when you freed me when you were tiny; I was in awe of you. I did think of you like an annoying baby sister but the past several years I saw you as my sire knew you would be. When he kidnapped you, he would tell me that you would be so pretty but a strong onna. He said you would have the same type of strength your mother did. He said you would be the culmination of our people.” He said running his hand up her thigh.

“You are like your sire.” She said softly.

“I love my father a lot.” He acknowledged.

“How is your mother?” she asked.

“She thinks I am too much like him too but not in a good way. I think she is amazing but I prefer your mother.” He said honestly.

“Karu?” she asked.

“Hmm?” responded running a hand through her hair.

“You know that I am not a regular kumo.” She said softly.

“I know that.” He smiled.

“What I mean is that I am reaching maturity quickly. I am almost at my full power and abilities.” She said gripping his backside.

“What are you saying?” he asked confused.

“When you turn fifty I want you to mark me. I want you to take me as your mate.” She said in a husky voice.

She lifted her leg and positioned him at her center. She pulled him forward and he squeezed his eyes shut as they joined.

“I will. I swear I will.” He groaned.

She smirked as they moved in unison. He was loosing his mind and cried out as she delved into his mind.

“Zuki no! Should not.” He said fighting off euphoria.

“You really think that would happen?” she asked sighing.

“Kamis! Let me go! No torture.” He said sweating profusely.

She began pulling and wrapping her thoughts with his and he was growing mindless as she was making it a complete joining. The rapture he was feeling was unlike anything else. He moved them where she was under him and he began moving hard to try and relieve the ache in his mind and body.

“Mizuki please! Please!” he growled.

“Karu! Pull back.” She groaned.

“Zuki please!” Karu snarled suddenly.

She was trying to keep him from culminating and he was gripping her tightly. She unleashed his responses and he gnashed his teeth. Karu sank his claws into the futon and he was fighting off every instinct he had. He groaned as if in pain and Mizuki met his reddened eyes. He was not in control and the pull on their yoki was mounting.

“Pull back.” She said and then cried out as he hit a sensitive spot.

“Help.” He growled out.

She held him firmly with her mind and managed to extract herself from his hold.

“Karu? Did I hurt you?” she cried.

“Change.” He ground out and ported away.

She stared at the futon and noticed his silk. He had managed to stop himself from getting her pregnant. She ran out of the palace and went into the surrounding forest. She lifted her nose and used her keen sense of smell. She had inherited a couple of inu traits that she was grateful for. She found his funnel and she moved up it.

“You okay?” she called.

-Hurting- he groaned in her mind.

“I am sorry! You are amazing. You are so good.” She said climbing down his web.

-Want you. - He pathed.

“I am here. Can you sleep?” she asked him.

-I can try. - He responded in thought.

She leaned against his kumo form and it was natural for her. She had never been with him like this and he was amazed. He wanted her to change her form and she looked at him.

“What happens if we do?” she asked.

-No idea. - He answered honestly in her head.

She willed herself into her kumo form and his mind was getting more primitive. He suddenly subdued her and they both gave into their lusts.

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

He was sore and exhilarated. He never could have imagined taking an onna in his true form could feel so amazing. He was sauntering through the Sendai castle and he heard crying. He moved to a shoji door and Mizuki was crying hard. He moved to her and lifted her chin.

“Haha is going to kill me!” she said sobbing.

“Zuki what is wrong? What is going on?” he asked.

“I think I may be...” she said and cried harder.

“Calm down. It will be alright. Have you seen Nobu?” he asked softly.

“No.” she said wiping her eyes.

“Okay. Come on.” He said pulling her to standing.

They moved quietly to the healer's suite of rooms. Karu knocked on the door and Nobu slid it open. Nobu saw her face and sighed. He motioned them in and Mizuki sat down on the futon.

“Did I not tell you two to slow down?” Nobu stated.

“Can you check her please?” Karu asked in a worried tone.

Nobu went about his examination and he helped her to sit up when he was done.

“Hai you are.” He sighed.

Karu kissed Mizuki's hands and he slipped from the room. He went in search of his sire and had to fess up. He found his father in the council chambers and he sighed.

“Father?” he called.

“Karu? What is wrong?” Ishin asked.

“Father, I did something I should not have.” He said nervously.

“My chambers now.” Ishin said growling.

Karu followed his father and he paced. Ishin waited and then growled again as he shut the shoji.

“What did you do?” he asked.

“Mizuki and I are we wrestling around and I changed to my true form and she transformed too.” He said turning red.

“You rutted her?” Ishin asked dropping his jaw.

“Hai. I tried to control my instincts! I swear father; I tried but I lost my mind.” He said looking down.

“Karu, you know to only rut in your humanoid form correct?” Ishin asked sighing.

“No!” he exclaimed.

“Well son in your true form you are in your animal state. You two were in animal form doing what nature demands! You got her pregnant.” He said bluntly.

Karu was burning hotly and Ishin sighed louder.

“Damn it Karu! I thought Asuna made enough noise to keep you from her for now!” Ishin said in anger.

“Father she and I both do not wish to stay away from each other! I love her and she loves me.” He said softly.

“She carries your babe Karu. Your mother is going to loose her head do you understand. You are not even old enough to be doing this son!” he snapped.

“Father, I have come here to do the honorable thing and do right by her. I love her so much that I would rather die then be without her. I would kill myself to be with her if she was in the Netherworld. I love her!” he said firmly.

“Son you are too young for this.” Ishin stated flatly.

“I know! Can we not hide it for awhile?” Karu asked.

“Naraku is not quite the same as he was before. He is more deadly and much more sinister then he was. I know not how he will react.” Ishin sighed.

“I will react fine. She is coming into adulthood and I know it. Now you boy had better do right by her or you will endure every manner of torture there is!” Naraku growled.

“How did you?” Ishin asked.

“I heard her crying. She is part of me kumo. I know my daughter as I had to care for her much when she was tiny. I infused my yoki into her as a newborn. It has not been known how my offspring would mature and she is normal for our type of youki it seems.” Naraku said pacing.

“Is Asuna alright?” Ishin asked.

“I would not truly hurt her Lord Ishin. Punish her maybe but you tell me that you have not done the same or she has not done the same to us.” Naraku snapped.

“Hai.” Ishin nodded.

“Come boy.” Naraku said grabbing Karu.

They walked to the infirmary and Mizuki was staring out. Naraku came and sat by her; he hugged her tightly and lifted her chin.

“You will be fine and this boy will do the right thing.” He stated firmly.

“Haha will kill me.” She said wiping her eyes.

“No she will not. She fought too hard to bring you into the world and besides you are my girl.” He said softly.

“Thank you chichi!” she said hugging him.

“I expect to see the mating mark by the end of the day boy. Healer! I would speak with you.” Naraku growled.

Karu helped up Mizuki and they slipped out. Naraku stood and watched the kumo healer. Nobu met him in the eye and felt no shame in his actions.

“Why should I let you live?” he asked bluntly.

“For one I am the healer to these people and I owe you no explanations. There are reasons she and I are drawn together the same as you two are.” He said.

“Do you intend to drive her to suicide as well?” Naraku said cruelly.

“No. I have no intentions of anything my lord.” Nobu said stiffly.

“I should kill you.” Naraku said with narrowed eyes.

“I think my lord that you are overwhelmed and if my death suffices then so be it.” Nobu bowed.

Naraku stared at him and suddenly left. Nobu actually sighed in relief. This Naraku frightened him plenty. He wanted to see his lady and he resented being kept from his son. He sighed in frustration and could not deny he was madly in love with her. Nobu was never one to be overly emotional but everything went out of the norm when it involved her. He went about restocking his medicines to clear his head.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Matters on the continent called me to my lands in Qinghai. Sheng was brilliant and I began to wonder how much of the kidnapping and ensuing conflict had actually been him. Naraku had broken the news of Karu and Mizuki to me and I had lost my temper. I beat Karu soundly and Ishin had to pull me off of him. I would not hurt Mizuki right now because she carried. I refused to speak to either of them at the moment. Naraku had asserted his will every which way and things were happening amongst the kumo. He was exacting and harder then he had been before. I knew that this was my true mate. I would have to handle his ningen part as I handled my uppyr half. With as much grace as possible and deal with him with as much love and passion I possessed. He finally allowed Nobu near me but my lover and best friend was wary at the moment. I was amongst my mainland soldiers as things were heating up with my former love. My back was hurting and I was exhausted. I had carried my kumo babe for six months and I was wishing I could be done. I entered my tent and sat upon my travel futon. I undid my boots and pressed my hands to my belly. I breathed deeply to ease the pain in my lower back. Changming entered the tent and came to sit by the futon. He lifted my foot and began massaging it. I looked at him gratefully and groaned softly as he worked the pain away.

“The Panyu lord has been spotted on the outskirts of our borders again.” He stated.

“I see. Do you think we will be engaging him soon?” I asked.

“Honestly hai. I know how Lord Tekeshi raised his sons. He will attack aggressively and try to get his objective.” Chang said.

“What is his objective now Chang?” I demanded.

“Obviously you my lady or rather maybe to subjugate you.” He replied lifting my other foot.

“You have wonderful hands Lord Magistrate.” I said gratefully.

“You have very pretty feet.” He smiled.

I laid all the way back and I was lulled into resting.

“If you roll to your side then I shall work your back.” He said gently.

I rolled to my side and Chang called for some massage oil. I heard my maidservant come and give him the sweet almond oil. He worked my haori off and kept his head turned as I covered my chest. He poured the oil onto his hands and began rubbing it into my lower back. I groaned softly as he was managing to ease the ache.

“You have wonderful hands Changming.” I stated with my eyes closed.

“How long are kumo pregnancies?” he asked as he worked.

“They are longer then inu but only by a month. Eight to nine months is the norm.” I stated.

“So you are within normal limits for an inu and almost for a kumo. So do you figure you will go longer?” he asked.

“Hai but not much. Kamis hai! Right there.” I moaned.

I heard him exhale his breath and sigh as he continued to help me.

“What are you thinking?” I asked.

“Not much mistress. I am glad to serve you.” He said.

I actually fell into sleep and I was dreaming of my life as Ayana. I was seeing images of her lovers and her consorts. I knew she had many babes before she died and her family was larger then mine. I felt such tremendous love for Nobu's son and I felt guilt at that. I woke up slowly and I saw shadowy images. I was nervous as I watched them slowly dissipated. I stood up and went to the woods surrounding the camp. I stiffened when I felt a strange aura. It was familiar yet strange; I walked into the clearing. There stood a lithe being and he turned suddenly. His hair was variegated between white, gray, and soft browns. His eyes were a soft gray and he perused my form. I was staring at a rare form of canid and certainly a taiyouki of the species.

“A tanuki?” I asked shocked.

He moved forward and blinked at me. His features were delicate and fine boned. He reached out and touched my cheek. I was shocked and he perused my form.

“Inu?” he asked softly.

“Hai.” I nodded.

“I am a tanuki.” He stated.

“I thought that they were only lower level.” I said dumbly.

“No. You are silver inu.” He said touching my hair.

“Hai.” I nodded.

“Pup?” he asked pointing to my belly.

I nodded and he brazenly cupped my distended abdomen. I watched him and he was almost petting me. I realized that these beings must be gentle. He continued touching me and just seemed intrigued.

“Never seen a bitch.” He said beginning to circle.

“I have never seen a tanuki with a humanoid form!” I said amazed.

“Yes. You are very pretty.” He stated running hands through my hair.

“Are tanuki so affectionate?” I asked amused.

“Yes.” He nodded.

“I am delighted to meet you. What is your name?” I asked.

“I am Minzhe.” He said bowing.

“Well Minzhe it is good to meet you. I am Lady Asuna.” I said bowing in return.

“You are a lady?” he asked coming closer and scenting my neck.

“Hai. This is Western Qinghai and I rule it.” I said smirking.

“Oh.” He said smiling.

“You are lone creatures?” I asked.

“No. We live in groups. I like how you smell.” He said looking at me.

“I thank you.” I said bowing.

“I will leave now. Nice to meet you pretty inu girl.” He said smiling widely.

He disappeared into the woods and I was highly amused.

He was a beautiful creature and very gentle and I was curious how many there were. I lifted my nose and followed his scent. A wild hair possessed me and I moved forward. I changed form so I could move easier. My nose was to the ground as I scented out Minzhe. I was in a more jovial mood and my mind was taken off of my daughter. I wanted to skin Karu but Ishin was begging me to stay away. I wanted to kill the little bastard for doing what they had done. I came through a clearing and upon a beautiful river. There was a small village near and I was shocked. It was serene and very calm. I technically ruled over these creatures and they were just moving about their business with no care of politics.

“You are more than pretty.” Minzhe said from nearby.

I turned my head and looked at him. He was staring at me and moved forward. He began running his hands through my fur and I sensed other tanuki coming closer. I did not like being surrounded and I backed up.

“We would not hurt you.” He said raising a brow.

I barked softly and the others stopped moving. Minzhe continued to stroke my fur and it calmed me.

“You wish to change?” he asked.

I yipped and I stepped back. I transformed and looked around. He seemed rather struck as he neared me.

“Pretty inu.” I heard.

“Do you all just cohabitate?” I asked.

“Yes. We live and we love. There is no reason for aggression on our parts; we have no interest in politics on a grand scale.” He murmured.

The other tanuki came forward and they too began touching my hair and scenting me. I looked around as they obviously did not see many other canines. I allowed myself to be touched and such until I could handle no more.

“Please. I am tired and I need to rest. I am near the birth of my babe.” I explained.

“Please come to my home. I would love to hear your stories. You are a warrior no doubt.” He said pointing to my sword.

“For a little while then.” I nodded.

I followed Minzhe to a large hut and he bid me enter. I went inside and looked around. It was spacious but simple. The building itself was made from bamboo it seemed and other indigenous woods. There were mats on the floor and I went and sat upon one.

“Would you care for tea?” he asked.

“Please.” I nodded.

He went about making tea and I perused the simple things. This was a haven and it hit me how many more settlements there were like this. I needed to tour all my lands to discover what beings it was that I ruled.

“I should have known about you all. I should be doing more.” I said aloud.

“Why?” he asked looking over at me.

“These lands are being encroached by another group of inu. I will not have your kind obliterated over a personal fight.” I said sighing.

“You are under much pressure.” He remarked.

“I suppose.” I said taking the tea from him.

“Your pup is not inu?” he asked.

“No. It is kumo actually.” I commented.

“Kumo is?” he asked.

“Spider.” I said.

“Really? Canines and arachnids are compatible?” he asked.

“Hai. If you can couple in your humanoid forms then hai.” I laughed.

“To have offspring I thought would be impossible.” He said sitting across from me.

“My babes born from kumo typically are kumo in nature. Shinobu here is the son of my healer and best friend.” I said as I held my belly.

“You are comely. Will you return after you have had your babe?” he asked.

“Why?” I asked curiously.

“I shall be mysterious for now.” He laughed.

I enjoyed tremendous solace as we just talked. Finally I left and I looked back at one of the sweetest group of youki I had the privilege of knowing. I went back to camp and Changming was thrilled to see me. I knew there would be an engagement soon but I directed the camp to be moved. I looked back at the woods and I sighed.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I was fighting as I dodged blades and seasoned warriors of Panyu. The melee was awful but I kept fighting. I saw an opening and released my yoki from my hand and the ensuing blast was tremendous. I still needed to refine my channeling and I was thrown back against Changming. It knocked us both down and he covered me as a warrior tried to strike. He too released his shock wave and it made the inu fall dead near us, I saw blood seeping from his ears. Chang helped me up and I staggered.

“My lady!” Chang said holding me up.

“He is hurt! Kamis, he is crying.” I said in fear.

“The babe?” Chang asked.

“Hai. I need to port.” I said softly.

“I will take you. Geming is here too. He will fight them back.” Chang said as he ported us to Sendai.

I looked around and the castle was subdued. I realized Ishin must be on the mainland. I looked at the floor and there was blood.

“Changming!” I screamed.

My magistrate came to me and he was nervous.

“The babe. You must help me.” I said as a pain ripped through my abdomen.

“Where is the healer?” he demanded.

“They must be in Korea. The main palace is near Seoul.” I said shaking.

“Kamis my lady!” he said looking fearful.

I pulled all his yoki and I ported us to the Soudi Goten as it was called. I saw many soldiers and several I recognized.

“Gintu! Get Nobu!” I cried.

The kumo looked horrified and he ran. Changming picked me up and I heard running. Shinobu would not stop crying and I was loosing too much blood too quickly. I felt familiar auras and Nobu hissed. He took me and I knew he ported us. I was laid on a futon and I heard him cursing.

“Nobu?” I asked softly.

“I have to get to him.” He said as he lifted my head up.

He poured a draught down my throat and I was dizzy. I laid there in a semi awake state. I knew he was working quickly but I felt his panic. I felt the blade cut but it was not painful. I managed to look at him and he was crying. I reached to try and touch him as he worked. I knew Shinobu was fine at this moment and I saw my son pulled out. He was covered in blood. It horrified me and I heard Ishin in the door. He moved forward and took my son who was crying from Nobu and wrapped him in his own haori. Nobu was working quickly; I saw him remove the spongy organ that connected me to Shinobu.

“You abrupted Asuna. I am sealing off the tear.” Nobu stated in a calmer voice.

“Is he okay?” I asked in a tired voice.

“Hai. He is okay.” Nobu said as he was sewing.

“I want to see him.” I said reaching.

“Asuna you cannot fight whilst you carry!” Nobu said suddenly.

“I am sorry.” I said closing my eyes.

“You were angry that I left you before but what am I supposed to do if you leave me?” Nobu hissed.

Ishin brought Shinobu to me and I could see tremendous tenderness in his eyes. My little healer was raven haired and bore my eyes. His pupils were the same color like every kumo I knew except the recluse.

“He has your stripes inu.” Ishin said in my ear.

“What are you thinking?” I asked as I took my babe into my arms.

“I am thinking he is gorgeous. Naraku will demand to be here. I shall return okay?” Ishin said softly.

“Hai.” I nodded.

Nobu was simmering in emotion as he finished sewing. He cleaned his hands and came over to me and our son. He gently lifted him from my arms and he stared at him. He held him out a little to peruse him.

“He is kumo dominant.” Nobu said affected.

“I knew he would be.” I said touching Nobu.

“Never do such an asinine thing again!” he said in anger.

“They attacked in Qinghai.” I said defensively.

“I know you are you but you are kumo in soul and you know it!” he said in a soft tone but angry.

“What are you saying Nobu?” I asked.

“I am saying that maybe you should stay amongst our people. I have been coming to know Naraku. He may have ningen dwelling within him; he is kumo. You are one of us. You should stay with your kind.” He snapped.

“Have you three been planning and plotting?” I demanded with narrowed eyes.

“You love me and I know you love the brothers. You love us three passionately and we are kumo!” he said as he stood.

“Where are you taking him?” I demanded.

“To clean him up Asuna. He is covered in your blood.” Nobu said gently.

The look he was giving Shinobu was beautiful and my heart swelled.

“You wanted another babe.” I said suddenly.

“I have wanted several young my lady. I have wanted to have something beyond my loneliness. You did not die like Ine did.” He said in an emotional tone.

“You realize Ine resembled me as Ayana.” I said gently.

“I have come to realize that. I did love her very much but the attraction makes more sense. She had the same colored eyes that you did. You do not realize that you still bear Ayana's eyes.” He stated as he left the room.

I was contemplating the situation when Naraku came in and so did Ishin. He hauled me up and held me in a hug. I was crushed and I gasped.

“You were being a fool again!” he said in anger.

“I was defending my lands!” I snapped.

“You were fully pregnant carrying one of us!” Ishin said.

“Oh by the Kamis what have you two been doing? Have you turned poor Nobu into one of you?” I demanded.

“He sees our feelings and I am sure he feels the same.” Naraku said crossing his arms.

“What do you three want? Speak!” I demanded.

“Your place is here most of the time.” Ishin stated.

“Quit talking behind my back! All of you!” I snapped pulling myself up.

“What are you doing?” Naraku demanded.

“Ending the battle.” I hissed.

“Do not be daft! You just gave birth.” Ishin snapped.

“What makes you think I will be gone that long?” I asked as my eyes flashed.

Nobu came in carrying Shinobu and I moved slowly over. Our babe was beautiful and he reminded me of Gaku Jouichi. Nobu caught the thought and he reached out and lifted my chin.

“Stop please.” He said gently.

“I will return.” I said.

Before anyone said anything I ported out. I appeared back at the battle and I saw Changming. His face dropped and I pulled my fang and I indicated for him to clear the way. He did my unspoken command and I released the supaida nami through the fang and my hand. My warriors hit the ground and the Panyu had no idea what hit them. I was drained beyond endure and Changming was behind me instantly. He held me as I sagged and the devastation was wide spread. I saw Geming come and he bowed before me.

“Finish the battle and get them out of our lands.” I said drowsily.

“My lady!” Changming said picking me up.

“Korea Chang.” I said weakly.

He ported us and we appeared close to the infirmary. He opened the door and brought me in. Nobu was holding our son and he looked over at me.

“What did you do?” he asked in fury.

“She released a tremendous amount of yoki.” Changming said softly.

I was laid on the futon and I watched Chang bow. Nobu settled Shinobu on my other side and felt my body.

“You tapped your own yoki! Are you trying to die?” Nobu said beyond fury.

“Sheng destroyed several good males and I will not allow his rampage through my lands when I have innocents to protect.” I stated softly.

“Feed our son please.” He said as he aided me in undoing my haori.

I rolled to my side and my incision ached badly but I did not care. Shinobu latched on and I was flooded with profound love.

“Asuna, I love you and I love our son. You two and Nobuyuki are the most important things to me.” He stated.

“I am not leaving Nobu. You can quit fretting, all I did was overextend myself. Now calm yourself and allow me to feed our son.” I said yawning.

He lay beside me and cleaved to me. I fell asleep as I feed my babe.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I was on a chaise with my three infant babes right by me and I was feeding Shinobu as the twins rolled around on a blanket. Quon came in and picked up the girls and kissed them all over their faces. They squealed and I smiled at him.

“They love their ba.” I said sweetly.

“They are so pretty my beloved inu.” He said depositing a kiss on my brow.

“You son is as pretty my darling.” I said smiling.

Ruolan had given birth a few months before to a healthy boy and Quon had named him Cheng. He was a good cub and I felt that Quon did favor our young over his son but he denied it.

“Why not have Ruolan and Cheng out here as well?” I asked.

“Why?” he asked looking over at me.

“Quon if you are going to be cruel then send her back to Mingli.” I said sighing.

“I did not want to take a concubine. It was pressed upon me by ba and then you ended up conceiving the twins. I love him and frankly she is a sweet tigress but I have not touched her since that night.” He shrugged.

“You should not be this way.” I said sighing.

“Then you should not be so beautiful and you should not have stolen my heart. What do you wish of me beloved?” he sighed.

“Release her from this ridiculousness. Visit with your son and we get back to our lives.” I said looking away.

“I did that yesterday.” He smiled.

“You just let your son go?” I asked shocked.

“I worked out arrangements that you and I have with Zihao, He is with me one week and her the next. She is nice but not you. You can possibly have more of my cubs so why do I need a concubine?” He asked.

“I see. I am going to lye out on the veranda. Can you lye Shinobu down?” I asked.

“Yes. He is a pretty little boy. You look like your mama.” He said talking silly to my son.

I laughed and kissed the girls. I stepped down onto the veranda and lay down upon a low bench. I was recovering from my birthing and subsequent drain of yoki. It was peaceful around the Changsha palace and I was drifting in and out of sleep. The pulse of yoki happened so fast that I was startled awake. I was taken and I began shrieking in rage. I saw white hair and began kicking.

“I will kill you right now inu slut!” he snarled in my ear.

“What I did not hurt you enough last time?” I snarled in return.

“You always manage to damage me but yet I am still here. You have been decimating my people looking for me so here I am.” He said cruelly.

“Let me go!” I snapped my fangs.

“You will be dead. No, you are strong and you will become quite the pet and I will get my revenge on Naraku.” He said in anger.

“How do you think you will do that? Rape me or kill me? You are a fool.” I said in contempt.

“Oh no not anymore my inu whore. No that does nothing to you it seems. You will find out.” He laughed.

He took me and ported out. We appeared in Sendai and I began snarling as his claws were leaking a miasma. Naraku ran into the courtyard and he saw Magatushi. My mate sneered and morphed his fingers.

“Ah no Naraku. You remember what happened to that onna before. No my old betrayer and friend you will suffer for your betrayals.” The former oni snarled.

He pressed into my throat and I blacked out.

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

Naraku jumped in anger and fear towards his beloved. The youki from the jewel whirled on him and trapped him within a black cloud.

“You will not escape this time you fool. That onna is the key to your destruction. You will watch as I destroy her.” Magatushi sneered.

“Take me!” Naraku snarled.

“Oh I shall.” The evil one laughed.

He felt him pierce his flesh and his own miasma flooded him. He knew terrible pain as his deadly shoki ripped through him. He thought bleakly that he should be immune but then Magatushi had adapted the borrowed flesh to him and had evolved. He saw his beloved on the ground and suddenly they ported elsewhere. They reappeared in darkness and he was furious. He felt powerful shackles placed upon him and he heard Magatushi chuckle.

“You do know that I am much like you in this body. I have most of the same yoki too. I can also change my form you see.” Magatushi said laughing.

Naraku watched as the beast took on his form and he was mortified as he was gagged into silence by powerful magics. His yoki was suppressed and he watched Magatushi go to Asuna. He tore her silks from her and Naraku snarled but no sound was heard.

“She will think it is you.” He laughed.

Naraku's eyes were burning and Magatushi lowered his mouth to her breast and bit viciously. Naraku snarled in anger as his former ally began systematically torturing his mate.

I woke up and I began crying out in pain. I saw Naraku and I was confused.

“Whore! Did you really think I would continue to allow the others?” he hissed in my ear.

“What is going on?” I demanded as I fought back.

“You should not have restored me fully you back stabbing whore!” he snarled.

“Onigumo?” I asked scrambling back.

“Hai. You are a very pretty cunt but not as beautiful as our precious Kikyo.” He said laughing.

“What?” I asked hurt at his words.

“She was pure and she was ningen. You on the other hand are faithless and nothing but a good fuck. Of course you have had much practice.” He said slapping me.

I was angry and I looked around. I did not recognize my surroundings and I glared at him.

“You almost had me believe you Magatushi!” I hissed.

“You really think I am he?” the Naraku look alike said.

“Naraku would only take me to a few places Magatushi. You do not know him as well as you think you do.” I said coldly.

“Do you? Do you know what he has done inu? Do you know how many countless beings he murdered in his quest for the Shikon no Tama and the priestess? Of course you do not. You do not know the evil that creature has done. He took great pleasure in much pain as I do.” He said changing back into his form.

“He is not the same!” I growled.

“Oh are you so sure?” he asked.

“I know him as no other.” I snapped.

He grabbed me and dragged me in front of Naraku. I saw his eyes and they were tortured. Magatushi tore my flesh and I snarled as I lashed out with my Dakkasou. I was thrashing and he shoved me down.

“I heard you killed my seed. Shall I see to it that you have to do it again?” he laughed terribly.

“Screw you!” I said kicking and screaming.

“Watch Naraku as I take your mate. Watch as I brutalize her.” He sneered.

Naraku was struggling against the bindings and I was struggling against a beast that was similar to my love. I managed to press my hand to Naraku's leg and surged my yoki through him. He looked surprised and he suddenly transformed into a grotesque thing. Magatushi threw me backwards and I felt a jagged rock pierce my back. I screamed and I could not move. I watched as the two battled and I could not force my body to move. I was panicking as I watched Magatushi do considerable damage to Naraku. My mate switched forms and they ended up rolling on the cavern floor and Naraku shoved his hand straight through Magatushi. The beast ported away and Naraku staggered to me.

“Asuna!” He cried as he saw the damage.

“I cannot move.” I whispered.

He pulled me off the stalagmite and I surged what little yoki I had left; we appeared at Sendai suddenly. Naraku fell to his knees and I screamed. I pathed to Nobu and Ishin as I dragged myself to Naraku's side. His breathing was labored and he turned his head to me.

“I am sorry.” He whispered hoarsely.

“Naraku! No!” I cried as I managed to hold him to me.

“I hurt beloved. Let me go.” He said wheezing.

“No! Please no!” I said stifling tears.

“His words were true to a point. You were the only thing that was good in my life. I was a monster until you showed up.” He said in a weak voice.

“Take in my yoki. Take in my blood!” I snapped.

“I am dying. My own miasma is doing me in. I love you inu. I love you so much. Kill that beast for me.” He said grabbing my hands.

He closed his eyes and I could see no breath in his body. My face fell and I began screaming in agony. Ishin and Nobu arrived and I was beating Naraku's chest.

“Oh my kamis!” Ishin said in despair.

“Nobu? Please! Nobu please!” I screamed.

I watched my healer mate kneel and he checked him. He looked away and I began sobbing unlike I ever had. Mizuki and Kenji ran in and their faces were ashen. I could not move and I was lying over his body.

“Asuna you are injured.” Nobu said gently.

I said nothing and Nobu had to physically take me from Naraku's body. I could not even struggle and Nobu seemed highly concerned. He was very calm but I heard my own wails and those of Mizuki and Kenji. Nobu laid me on my belly and was looking at my back. He worked and I sobbed hard.

“Asuna your spine was almost severed. You cannot move around until you are healed do you understand me?” Nobu said gently.

“Hai.” I said in a hollow tone.

“Where is Shinobu?” he asked as he worked.

“I was taken from Hunan. He was sleeping with the twins when Magatushi took me.” I said laying my head down.

“Okay. Do you wish to sleep?” he asked.

“Hai.” I whispered but barely.

He managed to give me a draught and I was taken from my current agony.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

“She will not eat nor do anything.” Nobu said wringing his hands to Ishin.

“I thought bringing her mother would help.” Ishin said looking down.

“My lord, why not get her fired up. Why not bring the jorogumo Asa here. That onna seems to inflame her and can teach her to invoke all of her specialized yoki.” Nobu suggested.

“Hai. I guess that may be a good idea.” Ishin said in tired voice.

Mizuki was being guarded by Karu and poor little Kenji was wandering aimlessly. Iyo tried in vain to calm her twin brother. Ishin ported to the caves at Kinki and walked into the dankness.

“Lady Asa?” he called out.

“You are amongst your brethren Lord Ishin and I am not a lady.” Asa said from the shadows.

“Asuna was injured and Naraku killed.” Ishin stated in anguish.

“So you wish to finally acknowledge that Ayana needs me?” she asked in a cold voice.

“That creature damn near severed her spine and if Naraku could not survive him then I only know one strong enough to destroy him, so hai she needs to know her yoki!” Ishin said fiercely.

“Mizuki will need to assist me.” Asa said flatly.

Ishin sighed and Asa moved forward. She took his hand and appeared back at Sendai. Ishin pulled away quickly and she laughed.

“You would have liked your grandmere Ishin. She was astounding.” Asa said moving toward his chambers.

Asa came into the spacious and airy chambers. It amazed her that her own could live so lavishly but then Ayana had been unusual. She saw her laid on her side with an uppyr female near. Augusta looked up at the ancient kumo female and sensed something deep from her.

“You will leave me with her uppyr.” Asa commanded.

“You will not order me about jorogumo. She is my daughter born from my body.” Augusta said coldly.

“Do you wish for her to live?” Asa hissed.

“Hai.” Augusta said standing and left warily.

I felt a powerful presence behind me and my mother from my previous life moved into view.

“You can save Naraku beloved daughter. You can save him for that beast was made from his flesh. He bears the scar correct?” Asa said gently.

“Hai.” I said lifting my head up.

“Then you must allow me to assist you. You also will need your daughter to help since she is of Naraku's blood.” She said brushing hair off of my head.

“I look like I did except for my coloring do me not?” I asked in a tired voice.

“You do. You have the same features and same eyes.” She said softly placing a comforting hand on my shoulder.

“Why do you not come out? Why do you insist upon staying in those caves?” I asked.

“This is not my world beloved daughter. I do stay in my kumo form most days.” She said softly.

“Why?” I asked bleakly.

“This was your domain and the others are so proud of what you have done but this is not what they want.” She said lying across from me.

“How many of my siblings are still alive?” I asked.

“Several. You know I had many, many younglings.” Asa said.

“Hai. How many twins?” I asked.

“More sets then you.” She laughed.

“How many of my babes survived?” I asked bluntly.

“You had many Ayana. Jouichi was your eldest but the others spread out across Asia. They would know their mother if they saw you. They would see the same face.” Asa stated.

“I need my family home and I need to revive Naraku. I cannot breathe without him.” I said closing my eyes.

“You need to go back and see the ningen. You will have to intervene at some point.” Asa said.

“What about Gaku Jouichi? I swore I would kill Fusae myself for harming him!” I growled.

“You are not his blood and you can love him as you do Ishin and Naraku.” She said gently.

“Mother, I need your help and I need you to pull all of Mizuki's yoki out. She is powerful but can she without harming her babe?” I asked.

“I will take her to Kinki and invoke her yoki. Jouichi has almost every bit of Ayana'a yoki; it was what made him so powerful. Lord Ishin has not even reached his full potential. His yoki was never fully nurtured.” She said gently.

“Pardon?” I heard Ishin asked.

“You heard me boy!” Asa said looking back.

“Boy?” Ishin asked annoyed.

“Hai my boy. How long do you think I have lived?” Asa asked amused.

“Do I want to know?” Ishin asked annoyed.

“Much longer then you. I am taking Ayana and Mizuki with me. You will see her restored fully when you see her next.” Asa said flatly.

Ishin nodded and he sent for his step niece. When she entered she was hateful and wrathful. She stared at the ancient kumo goddess and narrowed her eyes.

“You will learn your place young miss!” Asa stated flatly.

“Kiss my ass bitch!” Mizuki snarled.

“Mizuki!” I snapped.

“Sorry haha.” Mizuki mumbled.

“You will go with Asa and she will assist you in pulling out all your yoki. You will give birth to your babe and you will do as you are told for once!” I hissed.

“Yes mam.” She said bowing.

“I need you baby girl if we are going to defeat Magatushi.” I said softly.

“Hai haha,” she said with a feral gleam in her eyes.

“Mother, I am ready.” I said pushing myself up.

“Have him bring you to me in the past.” Asa commanded.

“Hai.” I nodded.

She ported us via a thick shoki and I appeared near the Korean palace. Asa looked around and I knew she sensed kumo everywhere. I saw several ookami kumo and Asa stayed with me.

“What is this?” a male said amused.

“I know who you are Sadaharu. You had best mind your business fool.” Asa said coldly.

“What are you old bat?” the ookami kumo asked in a nasty tone.

“Summon your lord now!” she said in a dangerous voice that frightened even me.

“What are you?” Sadaharu asked stepping back.

“A jorogumo and one whose venom would turn you in seconds.” She laughed.

Sadaharu bowed and he immediately went in search of Jouichi.

“How long till the fall?” I asked under my breath.

“It is already begun. How badly do you wish to save Jouichi?” she asked under her breath.

“Badly.” I said sighing.

“I can preserve him before death. Nobu can revive him but he will insist upon helping to rule the kingdom.” Asa stated.

“It is huge anyways. If I was to bring all my previous babes back into the fold I imagine it would be bigger.” I said softly.

“No one would rival your power.” Asa agreed.

“I may need to open my lands to my families.” I sighed.

“That sounds wise.” Asa stated and I saw my son from my previous life and sometimes lover in this one.

“Lady Asuna and the jorogumo?” he asked stunned.

“Jouichi you offered to teach me to unleash my yoki. I need to do it but I cannot walk at the moment.” I said looking up.

“What happened?” he asked leaning down.

“I tangled with a creature whose spirit dwelt in a jewel in eternal battle with a powerful miko. My mate Naraku had unleashed the beast from the jewel and he came after me and him.” I said as he picked me up.

“Bring her to me my grandson in a few days.” Asa said backing away.

“It still unnerves me that I am related to her.” He said softly.

“She is annoying at times but she does love this family.” I said.

“I cannot get over the fact that you house my mother's soul.” He said brushing my hair away from my face.

“I house it but I lived after that as well Jouichi. I am beyond blood at this point but know I love you very much no matter what happens.” I said softly.

“You need respite.” He stated bringing me into the palace.

“How old is Ishin?” I asked gently.

“He is eleven.” He said with pride.

“I want to see him.” I said smiling.

“Hisashi and he are inseparable.” He said looking away.

“I know.” I stated gently.

He laid me down and I looked up at him. His face was that of Nagaharu's I realized and I had to look away.

“I know things Jouichi. I know things that would make you question me.” I said softly.

“Why?” he asked sitting next to me.

“How many of your siblings are still alive?” I asked.

“I have twelve brothers and nine sisters all of whom are still alive.” He responded.

“Okay then I need to gather them together and I need to make some things happen.” I said in a tired voice.

“Of course. Whatever you need, I am here for you.” He said running his knuckles along my cheek.

“Is Ishin around?” I asked.

“Hai is here as well as Hisashi. Do you wish to see my eldest too?” Jouichi asked me.

“Hai but from afar, he is of a much more suspicious nature then Ishin is. Naraku is dead and I have to revive him.” I said sighing in a despondent tone.

“Again whatever you need mitsukai. How soon till Ishin turns twelve?” I asked suddenly.

“Soon why?” he asked curiously.

“No reason other then timing things.” I said taking a proffered cup of tea.

“Okay.” He stated confused.

He left for a few minutes and a few minutes later he brought in a young Ishin. I looked at him and I smiled at him. He looked at me curiously and with much interest.

“Hello Prince Ishin.” I said softly.

“Hello. Why is there an inu in your room chichi?” Ishin asked.

“She is an old friend of mine Ishin. She was here the day you were born.” Jouichi explained.

“Really?” he asked.

“Hai. You are such a handsome boy you know.” I said taking his hands.

“Thank you.” He said blushing.

“Can you remember something for me Prince Ishin?” I asked.

“Hai.” He nodded.

“Please remember that your chichi and your brother Hisashi love you very much. I do as well.” I said smiling then winking at him.

His blush reached his neck and he suddenly tried to escape. He looked back at me and I waved. He waved shyly then left the room. I saw Hisashi peek in and he caught my eyes. I nodded to him and he did the same to me. I heard him call after Ishin and Jouichi sat on the futon by me.

“What are you not saying Asuna?” he asked.

“I need you to trust me Jouichi. I need you to believe in me as you have before. I will not allow some things to happen.” I said in a low tone.

“You mean my death? I have been wondering about that.” He sighed.

“How long has it been since you have seen Fusae?” I asked.

“Yesterday. I make sure to keep a close eye on her.” He said scowling.

“Okay then. I need to get better as Nobu has been helping me heal.” I said softly.

He nodded and he helped me up. My legs were working again but it was painful to walk. He helped me along and the training I realized would begin soon.

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

I was breathing hard as I was flinging the supaida nami. Jouichi watched and he was rapt it seemed. Ishin was in a tree swinging his leg back and forth as he too watched.

“You are releasing to much yoki; you have to concentrate on controlling the amount you release like you would with your fang.” He explained.

“That is easier said then done Jouichi!” I snapped.

“I know Asuna but you have so much yoki simmering below the surface that when you unleash it, it throws you back. You have to channel tighter and in smaller amounts.” He explained.

“Jouichi, I am trying.” I sighed.

“Okay watch me.” He said standing next to me and he too released the yoki as I did.

I watched astonished as his was more controlled and more focalized. It destroyed a boulder and I stared at the kumo lord.

“I had no idea.” I said stunned.

“I told you that I have her yoki.” He said smiling.

“Jouichi..” I said ghosting fingers along his jaw.

“Not in front of Ishin.” He said in a low tone.

“Hai.” I said dropping my hand.

“Try again.” He said in a tight voice.

I concentrated hard and I released the yoki again. This time it was controlled and devastating. Jouichi nodded and smiled widely.

“Can you release any silk?” he asked.

“No. I am inu.” I laughed.

“Okay you have your, what do you call it?” he asked.

“Dakkasou.” I smiled.

“Okay release your Dakkasou but imagine it in a orb shaped web.” He explained.

I did as he commanded and flung my Dakkasou and I was astonished to see it take on the shape I imagined. He grinned like a fool and clapped.

“You definitely were kumo before.” He said smirking.

“Thank you.” I said bowing.

“Chichi, I am going to find Hisashi!” Ishin called jumping down from the tree.

“He is so handsome Jouichi. He is shyer then he is in my era.” I remarked.

“Well he seems very assured of himself as well.” Jouichi laughed.

“He is. Our fights were epic at one point.” I said smiling.

“I do not want to die but you need to let me go.” He stated in a dejected tone.

“Do not ask me to do that!” I snapped.

“How can I infringe upon my sons? You have to revive your mate Naraku.” He said walking away.

“Jouichi no! Wait a moment!” I hissed.

“I am sorry. You need my arm.” He sighed.

I took his arm and I had been here for a couple of months. I had seen terrible fights between Jouichi and Fusae and things were worse. I had taken the opportunity to scare the hell out of Airi so that she would leave Ishin alone for a little while. He brought me to his chambers in the southern palace and helped me lay down. He went about his chambers and moved behind the screen to change.

“Jouichi you have been rather careful not to touch me.” I said in a soft tone.

“I cannot get over that you were in fact my mother.” He said sighing.

“I also told you that I am not your blood! I am different species for Kamis sake.” I growled.

“You remember being my mother?” he asked.

“Very little. I remembered just enough to deal with my yoki.” I said.

“You truly remember very little?” he asked nearing me.

“Hai.” I nodded.

He leaned forward and kissed my forehead and I snapped my fangs. He looked at me and tried to stand. I pulled him forward and delved my tongue into his mouth. He groaned as I mated my tongue to his and pushed me flat on his futon. He ripped himself from my lips and looked down at me.

“I want to so badly but I…” he started to say.

I pulled on his hakama and his eyes were wide as I touched him.

“Shall I beg?” I asked.

“No. Please do not beg me.” He said closing his eyes tight.

“Listen to me!” I snapped.

“I have evolved! Do you understand?” I snapped harshly.

He opened my kimono and pushed into me. I groaned softly as he pulled back. His face was full of emotion as he did most of the moving as my back was still healing. I reached deep into his soul and he gasped loudly. He attacked my mouth and kissed me desperately like he always did. I lost myself in him and allowed myself to be taken fully.

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

There was chaos everywhere and I had a terrible feeling that this was the fateful day. The kumo were running and I heard shouts in the distance. I slipped away to Fusae's rooms and I heard terrible shouting. It was Hisashi and the whore of his mother. I came in and Fusae had injured Hisashi.

“What the hell?” she snapped when she saw me.

“Prince Hisashi you need to get out of here.” I said under my breath.

“I will kill this whore first!” he snarled.

“Prince you are bleeding badly.” I commented.

I saw Fusae from the corner of my eye and I reacted. I ended up releasing my supaida nami and it ripped through her chest and she was slammed against the wall. She slid down it and left a bloody trail. Hisashi's eyes were wide and I felt Jouichi in the doorway.

“What have you done?” he asked me horrified.

“She was attacking us both!” I snapped at him.

“You killed her?” Jouichi asked coming forward.

“Father leave her be!” Hisashi said urgently.

“She was still your mother!” he shouted.

“She was a whore!” Hisashi snarled.

“Asuna it should have been my decision.” Jouichi said with reddened eyes.

“Jouichi the dragons are upon us.” I said trying to calm him.

“This is it.” He said looking at me stunned.

“It does not have to be.” I said imploring him.

“You killed her.” He said in disbelief.

“I told you that I would.” I said holding his face.

“Get away!” he snapped as he shoved me.

I landed against Hisashi and I was mortified that he still would not let go. I watched my mate from my previous life try to drag his sire away and Jouichi shoved him back too. Jouichi pulled his fang and Hisashi was shocked.

“Leave!” Jouichi yelled in a fury.

“Father please! When was she ever worth it?” Hisashi asked.

“I said go! Leave her be Hisashi.” Jouichi commanded in a rage.

Hisashi moved to get to his mother and Jouichi stabbed him through his side. I watched in horror and I heard screams. Hisashi went to strike in return and I came between them.

“Go! Take your people and go!” I yelled.

“Get out of my way!” Hisashi snarled.

“Go!” I yelled.

Jouichi came ready to strike and I threw him with a wave of my hand and he landed badly and thrown through a shoji wall. The resounding cracking made me sick to my stomach.

“I said go! Watch as I finish her okay?” I asked ready to vomit.

I released a huge amount of Dakkasou and soaked Fusae's dead body. Her flesh would slowly be eaten away and I could see Hisashi falter.

“Prince go!” I said hurriedly.

“Thank you for ending her miserable life!” he growled and I turned and saw Ishin as his brother sheathed his fang.

“Ishin wait!” Hisashi called.

“No! Murderer!” Ishin said backing up frightened.

“Brother please!” Hisashi said imploring him.

I had to leave the scene that I knew led to the present. I moved quickly and Jouichi was breathing shallowly. He was quite unconscious but I ported us both out. I appeared in Kinki and Asa stood there waiting. I watched her use her venom in a way to paralyze her grandson. I was horrified and I began vomiting as the Empire that I had created as Ayana was torn to pieces within hours.

“What are you doing?” I asked in a hoarse voice.

“I am preserving him Ayana. I have to use my venom and silk to do it. Why are you queasy now?” Asa asked.

“Mother I am inu in this life!” I hissed.

“You have forgotten your own ways. Kamis Ayana! You still have it in you.” She said bluntly.

“I am inu in this life.” I repeated.

I watched her carefully finish wrapping him in her thick silk and she called upon some other jorogumo to carry him away.

“I betrayed him.” I said shaking.

“You saved him! Get over it and go to your ningen,” she commanded.

I looked away and tears streamed down my face.

“I need you to port me there Mother.” I said in sheer sadness.

“Come here.” She said as she pulled me into a hug.

I sobbed softly and she ported us near Edo. I knew this was more than one hundred seventy summers before and Naraku had yet to be created. She left me there and I went to the God Tree and began crying hard. Jouichi still could not give up his irrational love of Fusae even in the end. I was tired and I slept lightly. I eventually woke up and I felt a band of ningen not far from the village. I got up quickly and ran as fast as I could. I jumped up the hill and I made it there quickly. I saw Onigumo and I knew he saw me. He had been speaking with several bandits and they too stared. I beckoned him with a slight jerk of my head. He seemed as if in a trance and just left the group.

“Hey Onigumo! Wait! That is a youki!” one called.

He ignored them and looked me over. I reached up and touched his face and I was back stepping the whole time.

“I have not seen you in nearly two years.” He said softly.

“I had to be here. You have to remember me.” I whispered.

“Why?” he asked amused.

“What are you feeling ningen?” I demanded.

“Profound lust.” He answered honestly.

I pulled him forward and delved my tongue into his mouth and he took over the intimacy. I felt myself walking backwards again and a tree was digging into my skin. The passion was overwhelming and drugging us both too quickly.

“Please. Kamis please.” I whined as he busied his hands undoing my haori.

“How do I know you? Why do I feel this profound lust?” he demanded.

“Because you do know me and when we join it is powerful.” I said nipping his lips.

“They say youki draw blood during sex.” He said nipping back.

“We do.” I said then licking along his lips.

“I want you now!” he said in a growl.

I undid my hakama and he did as well. He shifted me up and thrust in my hard. I grunted as he filled me and I groaned as he moved. My claws gouged his back and his breathing was rough as his blood stained his haori from my claws. He almost violently kissed me as this joining was primitive and animal like. My eyes were red as he pummeled my body. My legs were around his hips and he gently bit along my ear lobe then my juncture. His hips met mine as our groans and grunts filled the night air. My claws ended up dragging down his back and I gripped his backside as my body began reacting as I gripped him tightly. His breathing was labored as he still pummeled me through the haze.

“My love. My love.” I mumbled over and over.

He almost growled and he snarled as he surged up into me hard. I felt him coat my womb in his seed and again I climaxed hard but this time I screamed. He kept me pinned and he stared at me with his unusual eyes. I was breathing roughly and I realized that I had rutted with a very notorious ningen.

“You are wild and passionate inu. What an incredible experience.” He muttered in my ear.

“You can let me down. Why are you this close to Edo?” I demanded.

“I am here for the famed jewel. What are you here for?” he demanded.

“You. I was here for you.” I snapped.

“How kind. Thank you for a thrilling time.” He said pulling back and I hissed as his member scraped my sensitive walls.

“Fool! You have seen that whore have you not?” I demanded.

“Oh you mean the beautiful priestess? Hai, I have and she is almost as stunning as you. I imagine she would have to be taught things but I imagine she is a virgin.” He said smirking.

“Sick fuck!” I snarled.

“You just experienced this sick fuck as you say. Enjoy the evening inu; I know I have already.” He said chuckling.

My chest was heaving and I moved and knocked him down. I slapped him hard and he laughed cruelly. I pinned him to the ground and I lowered my mouth to his ear.

“Never turn your back on a predator Onigumo. I promise you that you will regret it. Let us see if you are able to plunge into her virginal walls hmm?” I asked cruelly.

“You are an incredibly sexy you know. Your thighs are lean but so powerful. You sitting astride me just makes me want you more.” He laughed.

“You have to remember me. You have to remember one thing ningen!” I exclaimed suddenly overwhelmed in anguish.

“What am I to remember?” he asked amused.

“Remember how I feel. Remember how much you want me.” I said rising.

“That will not be hard inu. You honestly are the best sex I have ever had.” He said brazenly.

“Remember Naraku.” I said backing up.

“What?” he asked confused.

I ported away and my chest was heaving. I knew that in the next several weeks he would become his hanyou self. I had to sit back and watch. I waited and I knew that my uncle would appear very soon. Tears streamed down my eyes. I settled back and waited for the fireworks to begin.

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

It took everything in me to not stop his burning. I could feel his pain and it hurt me. I was sobbing quite a bit but I had to let it happen for my beloved to come back to me. I was spying Kikyo caring for him and I hated her with a passion. I waited until she left and I felt the tremendous malice. I snuck in and he was asleep and I had masked my presence.

“So sorry.” I whispered.

I saw him stir and he stared at me in fury. I stepped back and I felt his hatred. His pain was awful and I suddenly fell to my knees and cut my wrist.

“Get away from me! You knew! Somehow you knew!” he snarled.

“Shut up! This will ease your pain.” I said softly.

I made him take in my blood and I proceeded to make him feel numb. He sighed a little and I looked away.

“I am sorry ningen. I was not here when it happened for I would have stopped it.” I said shaking.

“You lie! You are somehow related to that filthy half breed that the maiden Kikyo loves!” he said nearly spitting in fury.

“You are unreasonable and I cannot converse anymore.” I said standing.

“Why did you fuck me?” he hissed.

“Because I felt like it.” I snapped.

I slipped from the cave and I stiffened when I felt a presence. The kumo that held Hisashi was near. I spoke in funnel and it neared me.

“I know you kumo.” I said narrowing my eyes.

“Sorami?” it hissed.

“Hai. Go forth.” I said slipping away.

I stood behind a tree and I waited for the inevitable. Tears fell freely and I felt the tremendous yoki. I slipped away and waited for the tragedies to occur. It of course did not take long and I was also bent over vomiting unlike I had in a long while. I crawled forth and laid my cheek against the ground.

“Mother! I am so tired.” I cried softly.

“Ayana. Look at me girl.” She said looking down at me.

“What is wrong with me?” I asked weakly.

“You carry the mortal's seed. You are a little fool!” she sighed.

“A hanyou?” I asked stunned.

“Not just any hanyou. Kamis Ayana.” She sighed sitting by me and laying my head in her lap.

I stiffened and Asa just continued to pet my hair. I managed to stir and I was staring at a newborn Naraku. I knew he knew me. He just stared at me with a confused expression on his face and Asa laughed heartily.

“Who are you?” he demanded of her.

“Much older and more powerful then you Naraku.” She said amused.

“You knew.” He said looking at me.

“Go on Naraku.” I said looking away.

“You told him to remember Naraku. You knew!” he hissed.

“I know much hanyou. I know more then you ever shall. Go fuel your hatred and your need for miko pussy.” I said in disrespect.

He glared but then disappeared into his miasma. I clutched my stomach and I began vomiting again.

“A hanyou! You are going to birth him a hanyou.” She said shaking her head.

“How do I save him?” I asked.

“You will have to bring him forth again. I shall shelter this being for now. You need to go home. Mizuki gave the kumo boy a son.” She said.

“Was the babe healthy?” I asked.

“Hai. She was unprepared for the pain and she swore no more babes anytime soon.” Asa chuckled.

“You did not give her pain relief to teach her a lesson.” I said amused.

“Hai I did. She may be more mature quicker; she is still too young to have done this, foolish girl!” Asa said in contempt.

I nodded and I knew Naraku was nearby. I was retching again and I held myself up by a tree. He stepped out and hauled me up. His power was staggering already. I knew he had already killed Kikyo and had Inuyasha pinned to the God Tree.

“I should know more.” He said coldly.

“Unhand me half breed!” I hissed.

“You wanted this to be happen inu.” He snarled.

“Hai. Remember your betrayals Naraku!” I said smirking.

I was acting but I was thrilled to see him in this state. I managed to pull away and his face was wrathful. I stepped back and I ported away to Asa. She was in her true form and it was a sight. I moved forward and she transformed.

“You must subdue the oni. I have preserved the hanyou and you must convince the oni to take him in. He will think that he will gain his powers and when he does you will send the oni's soul to hell!” she said fiercely.

“It is a good plan. Magatushi is from Naraku's flesh and it is alive. Thank you Mother.” I said bowing.

“Go outside and find your tengu. Go home to Sendai and retrieve Mizuki. The oni is hiding in the extreme north in Asahikawa. Keep safe my darling.” She said kissing my forehead.

I pulled myself together and I walked outside. I recognized my era and I ported to Sendai. I moved quickly to retrieve my eldest daughter so that together we could destroy the beast once and for all.