InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ I am the Moon ❯ Only the Beginning. ( Chapter 83 )

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

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

Only the Beginning

Mizuki and I had planned very carefully and I was seeing my daughter not as a child anymore but a young onna. She was more grown up than I had given her credit for and she was feeding her own son she had named Nori in honor of her lost brother. I was trying to keep my pregnancy a secret because even I knew I was a fool. I had been so very reckless the last several years and I was amazed that I still had my womb. I was secretly ecstatic that I carried his babe; even if it was from his ningen self.

“We leave on the morrow. Get some sleep.” I said softly.

“Hai haha.” She said sleepily.

“He will be pleased.” I said running my fingers along my grand babe's cheek.

“Thank you haha.” She said as tears shimmered.

“No more till you are much older Mizuki. You still have some maturing to do and this is unheard of in the youki world.” I said bluntly.

“I understand.” She nodded.

“Is Karu pleased?” I asked.

“Hai but his mother beat him as well. He is terrified of you both.” She said sheepishly.

“He should be. We have a huge battle ahead of us.” I said.

She bowed and I walked away. I saw Ishin and he was depressed. He did not know exactly what I was up to and I did not want to get his hopes up. I walked to him and he looked over and smiled.

“Hello beloved.” He said touching my cheek.

“Do you remember me?” I asked.

He looked confused for a moment then his eyes widened. He stared at me and I nodded.

“I could not resist seeing you as a young boy. You were so incredibly handsome and shy. I could not imagine you as shy.” I said softly.

“My sire knew you well?” he asked surprised.

“Hai. He instructed me in the use of my yoki that was also similar to his. Asa says you have suppressed some of yours as well.” I said running my hands through his hair.

“I know not. I really do not care at this point. You surprise me yet again. You seem to love me.” He said trying to lighten the mood.

“I do. I love you very much.” I said in his ear.

“I am empty as when he died the first time.” He said in despair.

“He saved me and I know I will do the same. I will somehow save him.” I said holding his face.

“You are up to something.” He stated bluntly.

“I am. Come should you like to see if Nobu is busy?” I asked smiling.

“You would invite him to us?” he asked shocked.

“You say he is as your brother. Why not?” I asked.

“You surprise me my love. It does not bother me. You know Akane accused me of perverse behavior.” He chuckled.

“Well oh well.” I said crossing my arms.

I kissed him and I went in search of Nobu. I intended to enjoy them both before I faced my worst trial. I needed to save Naraku even if I died trying.

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Mizuki and I were in Kinki and I was in the caves. Asa came forward and she was watching me.

“Is he here?” I asked.

“They are both here. Father and son rest near each other. Do you intend to revive Jouichi?” she asked.

“What would I say to Ishin?” I asked.

“His siblings are here from the mainland. They will care for him whilst he awakens. It will take awhile Ayana. A millennium of sleep is a long while.” She said.

“Will he forgive me for killing Fusae?” I asked.

“I can imagine he will eventually. She was poison on any level. I know not how he could have loved her.” Asa said disdainfully.

“Where is he?” I asked.

She bid me follow and Mizuki followed silently. I would take him to Nobu and see what he could do. I knew my healer and he would be rather emotional. I saw Jouichi with conflicted eyes. He was the son from two lifetimes ago and now he had been a lover. I saw the cocoon of kumo silk and I knelt by the body. Mizuki ported on ahead and I ported Jouichi and me to Korea. Nobu was in the main palace and I appeared. Shinobu was sitting happily by his sire and he waved his fat little arms at me. Mizuki went and picked him up and sang a sad song. He gurgled and pulled his sister's hair and Nobu looked at me curiously.

“I need you to see if you can revive him.” I said.

“Who?” he asked looking at the expert preserving.

“It matters not but he is important. There will be older relatives of his who will take him if you can revive him.” I said softly.

“Who is this Asuna?” he asked.

“Someone Asa asked you to help.” I replied.

“This preservation is amazing.” He said softly.

He touched the body and ported them both to his apothecary. I nodded for Mizuki to take Shinobu to the nursery. I went to the apothecary and he was carefully removing the many layers of silk. I stood by and I was tense as hell. Nobu was fascinated and I knew he probably would not remember Jouichi well. It took him more time to remove all the silk. Jouichi laid as if in death and very pale. Nobu looked at me and I raised a brow.

“It is a relative of Ishin's. Hence Asa's interest.” I said in a whisper.

“However she did this it is incredible. He is alive but suspended it seems.” Nobu said inspecting him.

“What happened to him?” I asked.

“I need to revive him first. Kamis this is amazing!” he said almost giddy.

“She did this to Naraku.” I said under my breath.

“You intend to try and revive him as well?” Nobu asked as he prepared smelling salts.

The noxious smell was getting to me but I stood by.

“I intend to restore him hai. Asa and I have planned carefully. I am going in with a plan Nobu not just with a need to seek revenge.” I stated softly.

“Well now or never.” He said as he lifted Jouichi's head and put the awful concoction under his nose.

I watched as his body twitched and I too was fascinated. Jouichi's form slowly came around and he began coughing terribly. There was blood on his lips suddenly and it occurred that I had deflated his lung. Nobu gave him widow venom and Jouichi was wheezing trying to catch his breath. The former kumo lord rolled his head and he was in severe pain. His eyes opened and he stared at me. His lips moved and he was unable to say anything.

“You are suffering at the moment and I suggest you do not speak. This is Nobu and he will heal you. I have your relatives coming to retrieve you as we speak.” I said with authority.

Jouichi continued to stare and Nobu was working steadily and I watched fascinated as he inserted a hollow bamboo shoot into his side and reinflated his lung.

“Who is he Asuna?” Nobu asked.

“I told you. I believe him an uncle to Ishin. The battle where your sire died is where he was found. I killed Fusae Nobu.” I said softly.

“Good! Evil whore!” Nobu said under his breath.

Jouichi just listened and I knew his mind was in a tumult. I pressed it and he looked over at me again.

“He knows you.” Nobu said.

“He had Ayana's yoki. He was able to train me.” I stated.

“I see. Can we talk later?” Nobu asked as he worked.

“Hai. What is going on?” I asked.

“Things. I have remembered more and I wanted to see if you did too.” He said softly.

“Nobu please let us wait for that conversation.” I said suddenly uncomfortable.

“Why?” he asked meeting my eyes.

“It is not the time.” I said with clenched teeth.

“Ishin has been asking questions and what am I to say?” he asked suddenly.

“Tell him the same as you have told me! It matters not anymore! We are no longer them and that life matters not.” I said coldly.

“Yet you retain memories of your Egyptian self and your life as Sorami.” He said bluntly.

“That is different and those were my inu and uppyr lives. Look please not right now!” I said in anger.

“Who is this inu?” Nobu asked suspiciously.

“I told you healer! Do you duty and heal!” I snapped.

“Hai my lady.” He snapped in return.

“Mizuki will take Shinobu back to Sendai.” I said.

“Do you intend to still take the south?” Nobu asked.

“My cousin has said he will partition some land to us and Mingli has been in negotiation for me with the Yamaneko. I have to eventually honor my treaty and give Mingli an heir.” I said sighing.

“You will allow your body time to heal Kamis damn it!” Nobu snapped in fury.

“I am trying Nobu. It seems my uppyr nature is dominant in this. I am fertile almost always as Eyal has informed me.” I said bluntly.

“So there is a rhyming to your heat?” he asked.

“Hai and no. It seems if circumstances are right that my body responds. It is strange to me but he says it is normal.” I shrugged.

“He needs rest but he will survive.” Nobu said standing.

“What was wrong?” I asked.

“He lung was collapsed and several ribs broken. His leg was broken and his arm as well. Who did this to him?” He asked.

“I did. I did not mean to as I threw him with my will. He ended up through a wall.” I sighed.

“You are loosing all control of your yoki.” He said taking my shoulders.

“I know. I have surges constantly.” I said looking away.

“Why can we not talk about them?” he asked softly.

“Because you made a point of saying after Magatushi raped me that it matters not. You are not him anymore and I am not her. We have each other now and I have given you Shinobu and you saw him born.” I said pressing my forehead to his.

“Why will you at least not let me see his birth?” Nobu asked.

“Drop it Nobu! Because you were dead! You were gone and my mates were there now drop it!” I hissed.

“You are hiding something again. Damn you!” he snapped as he left the room.

Jouichi was not asleep and his eyes were watching me. I moved to leave and he grabbed my ankle. I sank to my backside near him.

“I am sorry. I did not mean to hurt you so badly. I could not let you die and I am sorry but she had to die the same way as Teiran Huber had to die. She was evil and so was her. Your siblings are still alive and Asa contacted them. You will go to them for now.” I said unable to meet his eyes.

“Who?” he croaked as he pointed to Nobu.

“That is Nobuharu's son Nobu. His is Aya's little brother.” I said brushing his ebony silk away from his eyes.

“No! Lie!” he said in the hoarsest tone I had ever heard.

“You are in no position to question me. You would have defended that harlot! What were we Jouichi? You would allow her to destroy you the same as Ishin nearly let Teiran destroy him! Like father like son! You will get well and you will have your wish and you need not deal with me ever again!” I said in anger.

“Love.” He sighed.

“How? Her or me?” I demanded.

“Both.” He croaked.

“Whatever. You are more intelligent then that.” I said standing.

“Who?” he demanded in his croaking tone.

“I told you who he was. I have matters that need attending. Welcome to my world my lord. I have to restore Naraku.” I said trying to leave.

“No!” he snapped out.

I stared at him and his eyes were pleading. I sat by him and he sighed a little.

-You are keeping something from the healer and me. - He pathed.

“I have no wish to speak further.” I said coldly.

He growled and I stared at him. I heard movement and I saw Aya come in. Her eyes widened when she saw Jouichi.

“My lady? Is that who I think?” she asked stunned.

“No. He is an uncle of Ishin. What can I do for you Aya?” I asked.

“Lord Ishin asked that you return to Sendai. The oni was spotted and it seems the Panyu are on the move.” She replied.

“Have you recovered from birthing?” I asked.

“Hai my lady.” She said bowing.

“I want you to send a message to General Baku and General Yuudai in the West. Tell them to also coordinate with Lord Magistrate Changming in Qinghai and General Geming in Shanghai. If you could also send message to Lord Quon in Hunan and ask him to supply his Byakko warriors under your command; I want to move against Guangzhou itself.” I stated firmly.

“Hai my lady.” She said with a predatory smirk on her face.

“Wishing to end the threat?” I asked amused.

“Wishing to teach the arrogant bastards who the real power is. You my lady are the best thing that happened to this kingdom.” Aya said bowing.

“Remember who my chichi is.” I said smirking.

“How could I forget? You are kumo my lady; if you look it or not. There is no one else who could have reunited the other species of kumo.” She said bowing again.

I nodded and she slipped away. I looked at Jouichi and he seemed surprised.

“I restored the kingdom fully. All five species pay fealty to Sendai; that is where Ishin built his capital. I have to see to this Jouichi but two of your brothers will be here and I will see you as soon as I can.” I said standing.

He looked at me with questions but he stayed silent. I went to step out and two male kumo of great beauty came in. I knew them immediately as Jimon and Genji. They were younger sons of Ayana and their faces were confused when they saw me.

“I am Lady Asuna. I am mated to your nephew Lord Ishin. Asa the jorogumo contacted me to inform me that your brother Jouichi was in fact not dead. Healer Nobu was able to heal the damage but he needs much rest. I would prefer if he is taken away as there is war on the horizon.” I stated.

“You look like, I mean you favor but you are inu.” Genji stated dumbly.

“Who do I favor?” I asked as if I did not know.

“No one.” Jimon stated but he looked unconvinced.

“Thank you both. Where do you hale from now?” I asked.

“We have been in Vietnam these many centuries. Most of our remaining siblings are there as well.” I stated.

“Does Lord Ishin know?” I asked.

“We figured after the fall and his rise to power to leave well enough alone. After Hisashi's death he was Jouichi's only other babe.” Jimon stated.

“You should have revealed yourselves! Ishin suffered badly and you could have helped him!” I snapped.

They both looked ashamed and I caught their thoughts that I sounded like her as well.

“Please take him and go. His presence would raise too many questions and frankly I do not have time for it.” I said too bluntly.

Jouichi growled low in his throat and his two brothers seemed surprised. He was so much like Ishin that it had me reeling. He actually pushed himself up with his good arm and he faced me.

“Answers!” he growled hoarsely.

“I told you I do not have time!” I snapped.

“Truth! Tell them truth!” he said grabbing my arm.

“What truth is that Lord Jouichi?” I asked growling in return.

“Was Mother.” Jouichi snapped.

“Huh?” Genji asked confused.

“Was Mother! Our mother!” Jouichi stated in a weaker tone.

“You are exerting too much energy Jouichi! Please Jimon and Genji take him.” I said without thought.

“We did not tell you our names.” Jimon stated with narrowed eyes.

“I am a more powerful telepath then most funnel webs fool. My mother is a kiang shi. Do you mind?” I asked.

They took him gently and his eyes were angry and something else I did not know. They proceeded to port via their shoki and I felt relief. I made sure Nobu was not around and he was in fact outside in his bigger gardens. I went to Mizuki and we left to go to Sendai. I appeared in the castle and went to put armor on. I went to the armory and fitted Mizuki with her own. I had Totosai make her fang; it was named Jougosaiga. I had Ishin and Naraku both supply fangs. I had just received it; I pulled her to my chambers and she looked intrigued that I allowed her in my inner sanctum. I went to the package and undid it. I pulled out a curved blade that was covered in scroll work on the blade. The handle was inlaid with different shades of jade and her eyes were wide.

“I had this made for you. Your chichi supplied a fang for it before he passed on. It is called the Jougosaiga and you need to try and invoke it. Hopefully you can soon.” I said as I laid it in her hands.

“I am awestruck.” She said softly.

Ishin came in and looked over the blade. He was impressed and came to us.

“That is what I lost a fang for?” he asked inspecting the blade.

“Hai. Now you have been training with me and your jii-chan and I need you by my side daughter.” I said frankly.

“Hai haha.” She said bowing low.

I nodded and she bowed again and ran with her fang to show Karu. I went to the futon and lay down for a little while. I was tired and weary. Ishin came over and lay next to me. He held me close and he turned me over.

“You are pregnant?” he asked shocked.

“Hai.” I said softly.

“Asuna?” he asked scenting my sternum.

“Hai?” I asked.

“Naraku?” he asked shocked beyond belief.

“Hai.” I said closing my eyes.

He pulled me up gently and wiped tears from my eyes. He held me close and calmed me.

“You know I will love his babe as my own. You know that right?” he asked.

“I know. I still have to try and save him Ishin. Asa has a plan.” I said in his ear.

“Her? Asuna, beloved she is not a normal kumo! She has lived so long she has reached kami status!” he said lifting my chin.

“She preserved him for us. I will make Magatushi absorb him and I will send his soul to hell!” I said in anger.

“Is that possible?” he asked concerned.

“Naraku's very creation should have been impossible but it is how he is. He used to gain powers through absorption. Magatushi in this incarnation came from his flesh and it is Naraku in a sense. We just have to send Magatushi out and Asa was able to trap his souls within his body.” I explained.

“Kamis that is an awful what ifs.” He stated.

“It is my only shot at restoring him as he is Ishin. It is the only way that he will remember you and all of this. I have to try.” I said sighing.

“Mizuki is a key?” he asked.

“Hai. She has his yoki and some of mine. I also was in the past to train with your sire to invoke my own kumo yoki.” I said.

He held me close and I felt immense love. I felt his emotions wash over me and rested well.

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Mizuki and I were traveling into the wilds of the north and we had encountered obstacles. She was awesome with her blade but had not figured out how to unleash it. We were sparring and my daughter could damn near beat me. I was highly impressed and continued to train with her. My tiny little hanyou was starting to make itself known in my head and I knew Naraku would have pleased to know I was giving him a daughter. She was sleeping with her head in my lap and I saw a fey youki. It was Ayumu and I was surprised.

“Hello.” I said in a whisper.

“She looks well.” He said looking at her.

“She is mated Yosei.” I said in a direct tone.

“She is your daughter.” He said crossing his arms.

“Karu hates you young one. He will not willingly share. Where have you been?” I asked.

“Hating myself and hating her.” He said looking angry.

“She has a son.” I said meeting his eyes.

He looked crushed and I felt for him. Mizuki was stirring and I sighed. She looked up and saw Ayumu and she sat up.

“What are you doing here?” she asked.

“I heard through rumors that your chichi died and I wanted to say how sorry I was. I know you were close to him.” Ayumu said stiffly.

“Hai he died.” She said looking away.

“You could not wait?” he demanded.

“You dismissed me! You turned on me!” she cried.

“Well that kumo bastard wasted no time in making you his whore!” Ayumu snarled.

I growled and Mizuki's face fell. She stood up and slapped him for all she was worth.

“How dare you! I made some mistakes but I am coming into adulthood quickly. You abandoned me Ayumu!” she said snarling.

“You had already given yourself to him! Why? Why could you not just wait for me?” he demanded.

“I do not know! You asked me why I love him and I tried to explain but you had to have it your way!” she cried.

“I am sorry you lost your chichi. Forgive me as I obviously never knew you.” He said stepping back and he was gone.

I watched as her face crumpled and she buried her nose into my neck. She was sobbing and I felt terrible for her. I knew the conflict and my hands went through her ebony hair.

“I love him so!” she whined.

“Damn it Mizuki, I need you focused okay? If you need to see the Yosei then do it. I need your help to save your chichi.” I sighed.

She slowly got up and moved away and I knew she would port out to the other plain. I did not have that ability but then I had not needed it.

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Mizuki was following his faint scent and was very angry. She found him as he was tending some trees that looked ill. She began growling and he turned when he saw her. He sighed and went back to what he was doing. She stalked him until she was mere feet from him and she spit at his geta.

“I do not want to deal with you anymore. I give up on my dreams with you!” he snapped.

“What dreams? How could you have any dreams for us when you would not bend an inch for me?” she asked.

“What do you mean?” he asked in anger.

“You would not meet me half way because you detest my plane. You could not see even spending time there. You demanded I come here and you expect me to change me!” she said exasperated.

“Mizuki it is obvious that this was an obvious mistake. Our kinds of youki are too different.” He said healing the trees through his touch.

She was furious and she came at him. She slapped at him and he grabbed her arms. She was shrieking in her fury and he held onto her tightly. Her mahogany eyes were filled with anguish as she began sobbing into his chest.

“Mizuki stop! I cannot handle your tears.” He said softly.

“You dismissed me! You treated me as though I was some evil thing!” she hissed.

“I should have been the one to mate you and not him. He was never for you and I know it. You know it somewhere deep in you but you want supposedly to be a warrior princess like your mother. You cannot accept the love of a nature youki. How is this Karu any better?” he demanded.

“He did not dismiss me and he loves me no matter what!” she snapped.

“I do not? Kamis get away from me!” he yelled.

“How dare you call me a whore! How dare you say anything you coward!” she screamed.

She began snarling and hitting him and he felled them to the ground. He held her face and kissed her softly. She snapped her fangs at him and began kissing him back. Their lips and tongues dueled as they ripped at their clothes. Mizuki turned her head to the side as their bodies joined and felt as though in a dream. Her heart was torn so badly and she understood her mother too well. Her cries filled the air as they culminated into a tangled and sweaty mess.

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I was bathing in a spring and washing with a cake of soap I had brought with me. I imagined that my daughter was either screaming her head off or rutting the Yosei. I sighed and realized I was not ready to deal with her adult actions. I began washing my hair and I snarled in sudden anger.

“You are supposed to be getting well!” I hissed as I turned.

Jouichi stood there with his arms crossed and he looked tired.

“Explanations!” he hissed hoarsely.

“You do realize that you have been in a coma like state for nearly a thousand summers! You do realize that things are very, very different.” I stated flatly.

“Not tired! I want questions answered.” He growled.

“What? What do you want answered? I have not lied to you Jouichi.” I said flatly.

“Hai you have.” He snapped.

“How? How have I lied?” I demanded.

“You know more then what you are saying.” He said nearing the spring.

“What? What do I know? I killed Fusae and I liked it! I avenged you when you could not avenge yourself.” I said crossing my arms.

“You know secrets and you are keeping from me! Remember our binding?” he snarled suddenly.

“You deny anything to do with me when you tried to save that whore! You could not realize that she was evil and a pestilence upon you and your family!” I said coldly.

“I…” he tried to say.

“Whatever Jouichi. Feel that I keep things from you and perhaps let yourself go. I need to save Naraku.” I said dragging myself out of the spring and wrapping a cotton yukata around me.

“I should have killed her and I was a coward. I allowed her to destroy everything that my mother worked so hard for. I allowed her to ruin my sons' lives and I am a sorry individual.” He said looking down.

“You loved her irrationally and obsessively. Ishin is very similar but he has changed so much even since he and I have been together.” I said looking back.

“You still are keeping big things from me!” he snarled.

“You wish to know that your mother lied to you? Fine then Jouichi. You are named after Gaku and Jouichi but your sire's name was Nagaharu. You are the son of a healer and not a warrior. You were your mother's favorite because your sire was her first mate and she loved him more than any other. She loved Gaku and he loved you as his. Nagaharu was cut down by the very ningen he was trying to help.” I said stepping back.

He stared at me and he shook his head in total confusion. He looked up at me and wanted me to explain I could see. I went to a tree and sat beneath it and sighed.

“Why do you look as if you are totally confused? Did Ayana not favor you above your brothers and sisters?” I asked.

“I suppose she did but I was her heir. It was expected that I should follow in her footsteps and rule.” He said sitting across from me.

“She met your real sire quite by chance and they managed to act very unlike themselves around the other. They were mated for over fifty summers before he would consent to give you to her. He wanted the nation solidified but your mother was pulling away. You were conceived in a heated and passionate moment between the healer and the warrior. Have you not wondered why she had you inter her next to someone you never met?” I asked.

“I had wondered that.” He said looking away.

“You were wanted and adored. You were her passion and she demanded your namesakes to give you a background with their warrior ways and their titles.” I explained.

“This Nobu…he was Nagaharu?” he asked.

“Hai. Nobu is a very gifted healer and saved my Byakko twins. Your mother lied to you in order for your past to seem more illustrious I suppose. I know not the exact politics but it somehow seemed prudent for Gaku to appear as your sire.” I shrugged.

“Male funnels would have tried to depose my birth and my birthright. With my sire dead and the kingdom so new; they might have tried to kill me in order to jockey a position with my mother. She was looking out for me. She made sure that I would be protected by a powerful family.” He said with furrowed brows.

“Well the male funnels are powerful in this generation. Ishin is frankly a crafty and powerful kumo. He named our eldest after her you know. She has ebony hair and my eyes. She bears my inu stripes but she is in fact a kumo.” I stated.

“I want to see your babes.” He said softly.

“How do I explain your existence Jouichi?” I asked.

“Bring them here! Ishin will have to know at some point.” He snapped.

“Why is that?” I asked raising a brow.

“Because for Kamis sake, these were my lands and my people. My son needs to know his own sire is alive!” Jouichi hissed.

“Wait here and I will get them.” I sighed.

I ported to Sendai and went to the nursery. Ayana looked up at me and she was nearing eight. Iyo was closer to six and Jouichi was a toddler. Ayana jumped up and ran to me. Iyo stared at me and had a very mischievous grin on her face. She stared at me with her kumo eyes and kept the smirk.

“Chichi sleep.” She said laughing.

“What did you do?” I asked raising a brow.

“We made chichi find us.” She said chewing on a claw.

Ayana snorted in laughter and I growled. The girls got straight faces and Jouichi whined to be picked up. I picked him up and the girls followed me.

“Shusin, tell Lord Ishin I have our babes and that they will be punished by me.” I said glaring at them.

“Bring Kenji!” Iyo cried.

“Kenji! Come my son.” I called.

“Hai haha.” He said softly.

My heart broke for him but he took Iyo's hand. Shinobu was just arrived it seemed and I indicated for Ayana to pick him up.

“Please let Nobu know that I have Shinobu as well.” I said quickly.

“Hai my lady.” She said bowing.

We were linked by hands and I ported us all back to the forest where Jouichi waited. The three older ones stared at Jouichi with interest and Iyo boldly pulled Kenji forward and touched Jouichi.

“Who you?” she asked with widened obsidian eyes.

“Asuna! They are beautiful!” he said softly.

“I think so. This is Ayana Astrigera, Iyo, and Kenji. You have met Jouichi and this is my youngest; Shinobu.”

Ayana was an observer and could be outgoing but she had a slightly more serious nature. Iyo was too much like Mizuki and worshiped her elder sister. Kenji was very much like Nori had been and he was dominated by his twin. Jouichi was extremely outgoing and very much like Karu and Ishin. Little Jouichi demanded to get down and it seemed he recognized the elder Jouichi's aura.

“Hi!” he said coming to sit in his grandsire's lap.

“Hello! You recognize me do you not?” Jouichi asked his namesake.

“I know but know not.” Jouichi said playing with the elder's hair.

“Who you?” Iyo demanded again.

“Shut up Iyo! You are being rude!” Ayana stated.

“You shut up sissy! I get Mizuki and she beat you up!” Iyo said glaring.

“Stop now!” I growled.

Jouichi seemed genuinely enthralled and Mizuki did come up. I could see she was flushed but she had bathed.

“We will talk later!” I said under my breath.

“Hai haha.” She said inclining her head.

Kenji ran to Mizuki and buried his head in her kimono and looked back at Jouichi.

“You are Uncle Ishin's chichi!” Mizuki said shocked.

“Mizuki hush!” I snapped.

“Jii-chan?” Iyo asked.

“Hai, I suppose.” Jouichi said smiling.

“Chichi sleeping.” Iyo whispered in his ear.

“Why is chichi sleeping?” Jouichi asked.

“Cause we made him look for us. He mad!” she said giggling.

“Iyo!” Mizuki snapped.

“So? He my chichi.” She said sticking her tongue out.

“She is the most like you is she not?” Jouichi asked amused.

“Second. Mizuki is most like me.” I said rolling my eyes.

“I thought you were dead.” Ayana said looking at Jouichi.

“No little one, I was just sleeping.” He said meeting her eyes.

“Uncle Naraku is sleeping too.” She replied.

I looked away and Mizuki came over to Ayana and hugged her tightly.

“She has my mother's eyes. She has your eyes.” Jouichi said softly.

“Hai. This is Nobu's son.” I said setting Shinobu down who crawled over to Jouichi and gurgled in his baby way.

Jouichi seemed highly affected by their presence and I groaned when I felt the pull on my conscious. Ishin was frantic and thought the girls were up to mischief again. He ported to my side and his jaw proceeded to drop.

“Hello chichi!” Iyo said smiling.

“By the Kamis what the hell?” he asked shocked.

“Ishin.” Jouichi said softly.

“Come little ones now!” Mizuki said and she led her siblings away from the scene. I groaned inward and Ishin looked at me in shock and then at his sire.

“I have questioned my sanity at times but you were quite dead.” Ishin said bluntly.

“Asa.” I said under my breath.

“You know that bitch has become the bane of my existence inu! Why? Why would she save you?” Ishin growled.

“I know you are angry.” Jouichi said looking at his adult son.

“Angry? You think I am angry? I hate you! I hated Hisashi for along time and he was the one that acted as my father! You were too busy wallowing in self pity to pay attention to either of your sons and you end up fighting for my whore mother? No father, I am not angry. I am furious! You have no idea what it was like after the fall and when Hisashi was killed. You have no idea what being your son meant!” Ishin growled in fury.

“I cannot explain myself completely for this is no excuse but I tried to love her and you were wanted by me at least! I did love her and no, I did not get over her. Your mate here proved most useful in dispatching her!” Jouichi snapped.

“Pardon?” Ishin asked.

“I was the one who killed Fusae. She sickened me the same as Teiran did. The only thing that came out of that mess was Katsu the same as you were the only good thing of Fusae.” I shrugged.

“I thought Hisashi killed her.” Ishin said confused.

“He started it and I finished it. Hisashi and Jouichi fought and they were both injured. You walked in just as Hisashi was leaving. Asa showed up within moments of Jouichi's fall.” I explained.

“Why would you do that Asuna?” Ishin asked softly.

“Why? Because she would have harmed you as a babe! She hurt him every which way she turned and I was supposed to stand by and watch? I was supposed to stand by and watch her continue to destroy Ayana's son? I may not be her anymore but I remember certain things Ishin and the love she felt for her son was a big motivator. She was evil the same as Magatushi!” I snapped.

“Lady Asuna, you have not answered what you remember.” Jouichi said softly as well.

“You were born on a very stormy night. You were born in Korea at the main palace. You were not coming and you had to be cut from her womb. She favored white everywhere and her room was decorated in almost pure white.” I stated.

“She never told me all that.” Jouichi said with widened eyes.

“Memory lane is wonderful and all but do not think for a second that I shall give up my title Father! I have led the funnels and widows for nearly a millennium and by the Kamis I will continue to do it.” Ishin stated fiercely.

“I am not here to take back anything Ishin. I am sorry you were left to the ookami and you are right and I failed terribly.” Jouichi said sighing.

“Ishin! Enough please. You Jouichi give yourself permission to be an ass! Ishin, you have a good life now do you not? We have a family do we not?” I asked imploring him.

“Hai we do. I am taking the younglings back to Sendai.” He said leaving my side.

“He suffered much.” Jouichi said in a sad tone.

“He did but he is also just like you!” I said in exasperation.

“How so?” he demanded.

“Passionate and irrational. I have tarried too long.” I said going to my clothes.

“You said that you meant nothing to me and that was obviously not true. You are doing the same as I. You are trying to save a creature that almost everyone agrees was an evil bastard at one time.” He said as I walked.

“That evil creature as you said is in part your son! He has Hisashi's soul within him as well as Onigumo. Naraku was my life before either of us remembered anything. There was a simpler time when the choices I made were always about him. I chose him over my mate consort at one time and now I am at war with that individual. The main difference between Naraku and Fusae is that Naraku changed and she never did.” I said in a growl.

He moved closer and tipped my head back so I had to see him clearly. He lowered his lips and kissed me softly. He pulled back and bowed.

“I am in the era where I shall know everything about you. I will know you fully now.” He said backing up.

“So be it.” I nodded.

He ported via his shoki and I stared out into the encroaching darkness. I had to find the oni.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Mizuki and I were hunting the bastard and we had glimpsed him several times. It seemed Naraku had injured him quite badly. Mizuki was able to track him quite well and the beast seemed hell bent on taking her down. Her yoki manifested similar to mine now but she could will him to explode from the inside out and her miasma was highly potent. We were both hell bent on trying to find Magatushi. I felt a sort of desperation and tremendous need to hurry. We continued moving further north and closing in on the creature. I was getting to where I was more tired but I kept plugging along. We were camped in Asahikawa where Asa said he would be.

“Haha, you are getting exhausted so easily.” She remarked.

“Hai. I am getting exhausted very easily.” I acknowledged.

“What is wrong?” she asked.

“No particular reason my darling.” I said closing my eyes.

I was sleepy and I passed out at the bottom of a tree. I woke up in the middle of the night to subtle noises and I was up instantly. I moved quickly and I saw the flash of pale hair. I began growling as I moved with preternatural speed. I managed to grab Magatushi's arm and we rolled. He surged up and tried to go for my throat. I released the supaida nami several times and they went straight through him. He grunted in pain as he was slammed against a tree.

“Somehow you have become more focused!” he snarled.

“I had nothing left to loose bastard! I had to take in Naraku!” I sneered.

His eyes widened at my words and I internally smiled. The bastard was taking the bait. I clutched his heart with my telekinesis and released my Dakkasou as a huge web. He screamed and had to port out. He suddenly appeared behind me and gouged my skin.

“You would not let his corpse go! You entomb your dead loves. Where is he?” he snarled.

“What so you can take in his residual yoki? Fuck you mongrel!” I said spitting.

I saw his eyes widen and he ported out. I was almost giddy in glee. He assumed he could take in his power and he would stop at nothing to find Naraku's body. I ported to Mizuki's side and shook her awake. She startled and stared up at him.

“He is drawn in. Come on.” I said holding her hand and porting away.

We appeared in Sendai to regroup and track the evil beast. I separated from Mizuki and went to my chambers. Ishin was on the futon wearing nothing but a coverlet and reading several parchments.

“You just got done with your bath.” I stated.

“Hai.” He said in a growl.

“You are mad at me.” I sighed.

“Now why would I be mad at you inu?” he asked without emotion.

“Because I enabled it so your sire survived.” I stated.

He nodded but did not look up. I began growling and he still would not look at me. I stripped out of my silks and slipped into next to him. I ripped the parchment from his hands and he glared at me. I laid him back and sat on his belly.

“Tell me why you are mad at me again.” I said with a sultry tone.

“Not fair Asuna! Kamis onna! Mask you scents.” He groaned.

“What scents Lord Ishin?” I asked innocently.

“I want to fuck you senseless and you know it!” he said in a low growl.

I let down my hair and I began running my claws along his upper thighs. His eyes were reflecting his annoyance but mounting desire. I ran my fingertips lightly along his girth and he shivered under my caresses. He sat up with me and turned me away from him. He was in a state and he took me hard for my perceived transgressions. We slept some and I had my head laid on his chest. My fingers were twirling in his hair as he breathed deeply.

“I cannot stay mad at you anymore.” He said softly.

“Is that bad?” I asked gently.

“No. Do you remember when we were fighting whilst you were pregnant with Iyo and Kenji?” he asked.

“Hai.” I said sleepily.

“It has been different since then. What now Asuna?” he groaned as I grinned at him.

“Enjoying my beloved kumo lord is all.” I said in a seductive tone.

“What do you know about my sire that I do not?” he asked as I stroked him slowly.

“He is a good man. He was a good lord facing insurmountable odds. He did love your mother and she tried to kill him in a heinous way. I understand when a kumo couple exchanges their toxins that it is a huge matter of trust. For me it really does not matter because all a funnel's toxin is going to do is make me uncomfortable in large quantities and makes shiver in absolute desire when applied right. She tried to kill him in the midst of rutting and I think it changed his mind at the moment. I do not know how toxic an ookami kumo can be but she used enough that it damn near killed him.” I said softly.

“She was more awful then I could have imagined.” He sighed.

“At least Teiran did not try and kill you that way. She wanted you all to herself. Did she use her toxin on you?” I asked as I continued to touch.

“I do not like talking about that Asuna. I still feel this horrid guilt.” He said tightly.

“I bet she did. I am also guessing her toxin was as potent or more then a funnel web. I would also imagine that applied right could make you loose your head.” I said in his ear.

“Hai.” He stated in a strangled voice.

“I discovered something. Will you allow me to show you?” I asked.

He nodded and I lifted his claws. He looked at me funny and I raised my brow.

“My venom?” he asked.

“Hai.” I whispered.

“Close your eyes and let it come just a little.” I instructed.

He did as I asked and I coated my own claws in his venom. I pressed two claws near his groin and he instantly gasped hard. His eyes flew open and he groaned.

“Probably not as a powerful response but still quite nice. Feels quite delicious does it not?” I asked in his ear.

“Immune?” he asked roughly.

“I imagine you are but in such a sensitive area that it cannot help but react some.” I said sitting up.

I straddled him and sunk down on him hard. His body arched and I could the incredible feelings he was experiencing through our bond. I did not make him suffer as I rotated my hips on him. I kept a swift pace and I was watching him moaning sweetly for me. I let myself feel him totally and when he climaxed; I experienced it with him and cried out. He was sweating as he watched me with passion filled eyes.

“You want me to get to know him do you not?” he asked in an exhausted voice.

“That is up to you. You and he are a lot alike my darling. You might find him more than honorable. By the way; Magatushi is taking the bait.” I said getting off of him.

“Truly?” he asked excited.

“Hai. Asa is nothing if not crafty.” I said stretching.

“You really do not remember all of her life, do you?” he asked.

“Bits and pieces. I let myself appear as though I do to please Asa. I do not want to remember fully because frankly I know myself; our relationship would suffer.” I said standing and pulling him up with me.

“You love me so much right?” he teased.

“Hai. Such a gorgeous and delectable male you are. If you were not so intelligent and have such prowess as a warrior; I would make you my bed slave. You would never leave it so that I would ravish you constantly.” I said smirking.

“Be your male whore? I believe I could live with that.” He joked.

“Do not tempt me.” I laughed.

“Where is my sire?” he asked.

“Somewhere in Vietnam with a slew of your aunts and uncles.” I shrugged.

“I only knew of Hayate.” He said shocked.

“Well Ayana had twenty three babes Ishin.” I said softly.

“What? So many?” he asked shocked.

“Well Ishin I have as well.” I laughed.

“Not with me and not with Naraku.” He said with widened eyes.

“Well I have had several twins as well. She did not.” I said smirking.

“Kamis!” he laughed.

“I can sense him.” I stated.

“Fine then do it. Let us bathe then I will see him. I would like some answers to my past and my family.” He stated.

I nodded and he pulled me to the hot spring. He was in a better mood and I massaged his muscles as I cleaned him. We ended up dressed and I was in a white lace hanfu. I felt Jouichi and I ported us there. I appeared in the middle of a huge sprawling dwelling. Ishin's eyes widened and I felt his sire come forward. He watched Ishin carefully and my mate continued to stare at the many kumo he had never met.

“We have a rather large family.” Jouichi stated.

“I see that. Why do I not remember any of them?” he asked.

“They did not come to Korea or Japan often. My mother was a task master Ishin. She loves us fiercely but she made sure her younger babes had their own small lands to tend and it kept the infighting down. She was a brilliant leader.” Jouichi explained.

“Why father? Why would you choose her over us?” Ishin asked suddenly.

“Do you know what it is like to love someone so much then suddenly you are alone in a palace full of people?” Jouichi asked.

“No. I was wise in who I chose to mate.” Ishin snapped.

“Hai your inu is rather a good mate for you.” Jouichi said looking over at me.

I felt many of the kumo that I had birthed in my previous life stare at me. I shifted uncomfortably and stepped back.

“If you wish Ishin then work out the issues with your sire, I am not needed here.” I stated then bowing.

“How long till that beast goes after Naraku do you think?” Ishin asked.

“Fairly soon. I am sure he is searching for him as we speak but Asa will let him be found. She will let me know when the time comes.” I answered.

“Then you have time and you can stay.” Ishin stated but implored me with his eyes.

“Hai.” I said quietly.

I slipped from the room and overlooked a lush jungle. A rather stunning female slipped out with me and leaned over the balcony as well.

“You mention a jorogumo.” She stated in a seductive tone.

“I know many kumo.” I said looking at her.

I knew exactly who she was and I was fighting my desire to throw my arms around my first born daughter as Ayana. Erena blinked her light brown eyes at me and it seemed that she was trying to see through me.

“Who was your sire?” I asked.

“Jouichi was my father. Gaku was my eldest brother's.” she said.

“Well then it was good to meet you.” I said bowing.

“Ishin is a handsome male. More beautiful then most funnel males and most funnel males are stunning.” She said and I stopped moving.

“He is and he is a very good soul.” I said meeting her eyes.

“How much do you remember Lady Asuna? Do you remember all of us? I am sure you remember Jouichi but what of us other younglings?” she asked rather bluntly.

She pulled her dark golden brown hair over her shoulder. I remember her birth as being rough. I remembered being in my own web having to birth her alone because of an attack. I had birthed her in my true form and I kept back the shudder.

“I know not of what you speak.” I said shaking my head.

“You think I would not know my own mother? You have the same eyes inu but you were Ayana Agelena.” She said brushing past me and back into the room.

I was stunned but I ventured back in. I was being watched and very closely. They knew I realized. The ones that were here knew who I had been. I knew Jouichi had kept his mouth shut but his siblings must have paid attention to rumors. I was not comfortable being amongst so much history and I looked at Ishin; this time I implored him with my eyes to go and he nodded. I ported out suddenly and I felt much better. There was much feeling in that dwelling. I was in Sendai and I went to see Nobu. He was doing as he always did and our son happily babbled as his father talked at him. Nobuyuki was talking loudly and Shinobu was squealing as his older brother made faces.

“They do need a sister you know.” I said softly.

“Well when I can pin you down and ask for one then I shall. How are you feeling?” he asked looking up at me.

“Tired. My back still hurts quite a bit.” I remarked.

“Lay on your belly so I can check it.” He commanded.

I lay on my still flat belly as he asked and he was working a numbing salve into the skin around the gruesome scar. It soothed me and I found him scenting around my neck.

“When did this happen?” he asked gently.

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“You are pregnant with a hanyou?” he asked shocked.

“Oh that. Asa had suggested I go to the past and find the ningen that made up part of Naraku. There was an incident that I did not mean to happen.” I said blushing.

“How much did the ningen look like Naraku?” Nobu asked surprised.

“He looks almost the same but with brown hair and brown eyes. Hisashi and Naraku favored highly. I have no clue as to how but there it is.” I explained.

He carefully rolled me to my back and opened my hanfu. He listened to my belly and he looked up.

“Well she is hanyou. She only has your youki in her.” He said amazed.

“What does that mean?” I asked.

“I would not be surprised if she were to look like your uncle. She is healthy but she is not kumo.” He said gently.

“Why would she look like Uncle Yasha?” I asked surprised.

“Because you are inu dominant. Uppyr blend much better then an inu or kumo for that matter.” Nobu said lying beside me.

“I love you Nobu.” I said holding his cheeks in my hands.

“I know you do. I love you as well. Now the boys need their dinner. Care to feed our son; I do prefer you feeding him.” He said helping me up.

“Hai I can feed him.” I smiled.

I held out my arms and Shinobu crawled forward slowly and I arranged him in my lap and he started suckling hungrily. I watched Nobu move about and prepare food for Nobuyuki.

“Why not go hunt with him?” I asked.

“Because I try and not eat meat remember?” Nobu responded.

“So you teach this to your inu dominant son?” I asked.

“Why not?” he asked me confused.

“Because he is a predator Nobu on two fronts. He is half kumo and half inu. Last time I checked both species liked their meat bloody and raw.” I said.

Nobuyuki looked between us and Nobu sighed. It went against his nature but I knew the little inu only got to hunt in the West.

“Come my boy. It seems Lady Asuna has a good point.” He said moving to the door.

“Thank you my lady!” the little boy said bowing.

He scampered after Nobu and I looked down at my baby as he nursed. He was really a glutton and rather chubby. It was obvious that he did not starve. He bit me suddenly and I shouted.

“No! Do not bite haha!” I scolded.

He whimpered and he then wailed. I stood slowly and I waited awhile till Nobu came back. I stared at him and he took Shinobu.

“I did not realize kumo teethed so early!” I said showing him my wound.

“Shinobu! We do not bit our haha!” Nobu said firmly but gently.

“He is getting his fangs already.” I said amazed.

“This is normal for a kumo. You should be fine.” He said inspecting the bite.

Nobuyuki was not around and he set Shinobu on a tatami mat and he took the wounded tit into his mouth and laved his tongue along it. I gasped softly as he continued to suckle it and tongue it.

“Nobu!” I moaned.

He lifted his ebony head and smirked. I pulled him to me and our lips were mere inches from the other.

“Take Shinobu to the nursery for a little while.” I commanded.

“Hai. Be right back.” He said quickly.

I paced his apothecary and I was heated. He returned and he pushed me against the wall.

“Insanity. I feel such insanity.” He said huskily.

“Hai.” I whispered as his elegant fingers undid my stays.

I was tearing at his hakama and freed him. I grabbed his hand and I began sucking on his fingers shamelessly. Our lips collided as we engulfed the other. I felt Jouichi coming and I groaned. Nobu too was grousing and he pulled away to straighten himself.

“I need you later.” He said in my ear.

“Hai.” I nodded.

I had straightened my silks and came from the apothecary. I came face to face with Jouichi and he looked darkly at me.

“Why did you leave?” he asked.

“I told you that I do not want to remember and I sense things amongst her brood. Your sister is lovely by the way.” I said softly.

“Erena looks like our mother.” He confirmed.

“Why are you here Jouichi?” I asked.

“Putting names to places and events that I felt through you.” He said in a gentle tone.

“Okay why?” I asked.

“Mitsukai you act ignorant when you are anything but. I feel this wall about us and I want to break it down.” He said holding my shoulders.

“You got furious that I killed her! Technically I was mated to you as well! Hell I could claim revenge based upon who I had been for that matter. Take your pick and you would have still defended that whore!” I hissed quietly.

“I am sorry! It is too hard for me to stop loving someone! It is not in me to be that hateful.” He sighed.

“Did you ever touch her after you and I were together?” I demanded.

“I will not answer that.” He said fiercely.

“She tried to kill you whilst you made love to her!” I screamed.

“I was there and I know what she did.” He said gripping me tightly.

“So when did you fuck her? Right after our first go around or later?” I asked in a dangerous tone.

“She had been inebriated after a state dinner and I had been as well.” He said between clenched teeth.

“Since she was such an experienced whore, she must have been quite good.” I said cruelly.

“Hai she was an amazing lover.” He snapped.

I jerked away from him and I began growling in anger.

“I wanted you to have good memories and you continued to plunder her? What was it? You could not be wrong?” I demanded.

“I owe you no explanations.” He said growling in return.

I got right up in his face and my eyes had bled red. He seemed surprised and my face was within inches of his.

“You had made the comment that you were possessive. You did not say you were stupid as well. I am inu and I do believe they do not become more possessive then my species.” I said near his ear.

“You go too far!” he snapped.

He was suddenly gripped in my phantom touches and his face became rigid.

“For all the yoki that may have been your mother's, I do have some tricks of my own. Shall I prove what I can fully?” I asked.

“I have had a taste of your yoki. I know you could make me scream like a bitch if you choose.” He said in a groan.

“That is an idea.” I said smirking.

I ported us out and I appeared in Shanghai. I had not been here for awhile and I walked Jouichi till he fell onto his backside on my futon.

“Where are we?” he demanded.

“On the continent. I told you I was a lord.” I said undoing his gray haori.

“I see.” He said looking around.

“You remember an inu name Takuma? Also the inu named Tekeshi? I was Tekeshi's mate and he made me his heir.” I said spreading my hands across his chest.

“The names are familiar. Kamis! What are you doing?” he asked in a gasp.

“Seeing how you will react.” I said smirking.

He closed his obsidian eyes and held back moans as I made him feel touched in very private ways. He was beginning to perspire and I knew he was fighting it. I surged my yoki through him and he cried out.

“What do you want Jouichi?” I demanded.

“Anything! You are harsh!” he snapped.

“I know you well. I know you like I know Ishin and I knew Hisashi.” I said lightly dragging my claws across his chest.

Blood welled up and I lapped it up with my tongue and Jouichi was breathing harshly. I did not feel like waiting and I lay down. I pulled him down and our tongues became battered as we attacked the other. He thrust in me in one long hard move and he left me breathless. He pulled roughly on my yoki and I responded with a vengeance. I dragged my claws down his back and he hissed in pain but moved harder and pulled more from me. I screamed out suddenly and he had not even released his venom. Our breathing was labored and our binding was rearing its head. I felt the pull and I began loosing it. I heard him shout as he suddenly climaxed hard. I came with him in the shared high. We were both moaning against the other and I met his lips. He slowly pulled from me and he fell to his side.

“How do we manage to do that?” he asked hoarsely.

“Unsure.” I said catching my breath.

“What do you want from me?” Jouichi asked.

“I know not Jouichi. I have no idea of my motives. I know I love this family and I have done stranger things in my life. Believe me when I say you are not the first father and son that I have been mated to.” I said bluntly.

“What? When and who?” he asked astonished.

“Tekeshi was sire to Katashi who was my first mate. Sheng was Katashi's adopted brother as well. Sheng is telepathic and before I understood my yoki fully; we accidentally bound ourselves. It was Naraku who led me to the truth of Katashi's betrayal. I astral projected to him over a century ago in the past and I now carry his daughter.” I said sitting up.

“That is quite a tale. I have been reading accounts of you and it seems you have managed to change the landscape much as Ayana did.” He stated as I went to my armoire and began dressing.

“I did all that before I realized that I was the same soul as Akane, Sorami, and her. You have not seen my sire Jouichi. You would be suitably impressed.” I said coldly.

“The one known as the Killing Perfection? I think I would like to meet this zenith of inu greatness.” He said sarcastically.

“You and he are just the same!” I snapped.

“Ishin and I? I get that sense.” He said smirking.

“Get dressed then.” I commanded.

He smirked as he did so and he went to pull his hair back and I growled. He laughed and left it down. When he was dressed I took his hand and ported to the West.

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

We appeared and the twins ran through the hall. I laughed as they were in their true forms and they began yipping in excitement. My mother ran after them and she was exasperated.

“Damn it girls!” she cried.

They took off and she looked over at us. Her eyebrow was raised and she perused Jouichi.

“Mother this is Ishin's sire, Gaku Jouichi.” I said formally.

“Well that is fascinating. I thought you were dead.” She said bluntly.

“Asleep it seems.” He replied then bowed.

“Well if your father sees you he will probably flay you.” Mother said.

“Why? What have I done now?” I asked in anger.

“Let me see. You have a council seat and I seem to remember him demanding you to attend some meetings.” She said staring at me.

“I have been hunting Magatushi! It should not be my problem as it was you all's responsibility more than a century ago!” I hissed.

“Do not take that tone with me missy! I gave birth to you!” she hissed right back.

My sire exited his study and beckoned me forward. Jouichi kept his counsel but his thoughts were that I favored my father greatly. I bowed to my father and I walked into his study and Jouichi followed.

“Who are you?” my father asked raising a silver brow.

“Lord Gaku Jouichi and Lord Ishin's sire. Your daughter has been gracious since my reviving.” He said smoothly.

“You were asked to attend meetings.” He said bluntly.

“Father you do realize that Naraku is dead and I have been hunting his killer.” I said coldly.

“Why should I give one damn if the mongrel beast is dead?” he asked as coldly.

“Father! How about I say I do not give a damn if mother died? How dare you!” I hissed.

“Since it was his fault this Sesshomaru endured much, better off dead anyway. You have duties here daughter. You continually forget that you are inu. You forget who you are in this life!” he snarled.

My face twisted in anger and I felt Jouichi hold my arm. I grew furious and shook off my lover. I released the supaida nami at the balcony and it exploded outward. My sire ducked for cover and my chest heaved in anger. He stared at me as if I had lost my mind.

“Let me explain something father, I am my own lord now and it is high time you accepted that! You have no idea what I have been turning into and I assure you that in part I am kumo!” I yelled.

My mother ran in and her jaw dropped. Jouichi was speaking in funnel and I replied in kind. He was calming me but I was still furious.

“What the hell is wrong with you?” My sire snarled.

“I care not if you get along with Naraku or not but by the Kamis you will not disrespect my most treasured mate! You will not speak with such dishonor again.” I said as angry tears fell from my eyes.

I turned on my heel and left the study and Jouichi followed. I was crying steadily and he pulled me into an alcove; he wrapped his arms around me tightly and I sobbed. He lifted my chin and his eyes held sympathy.

“Tell me how to help save my son.” He whispered.

“I know not just yet.” I whispered back.

His hands held the sides of my head and he tipped my head back and made me meet his eyes.

“Kamis what is wrong with me?” he asked as he kissed my lips.

I greedily accepted his offering and his hands became entangled in my hair. I moaned out and his lips moved to my throat.

“Where are your chambers?” he whispered roughly.

“This way.” I said pulling him along.

We moved hurriedly and we entered my chambers. I shut the door with a wave of my hand and our fingers were busy undoing stays and obis. We were naked within seconds and we did not even make it to the futon. I was on my hands and knees and his lips were kissing my back and my backside. I was more than aroused but I managed to crawl forward and stand. Jouichi stood and suddenly had me pushed flat against the wall. I was spread eagle and highly vulnerable and he pulled my hips back. I cried out as he spread my backside and plunged into my center. I was moaning loudly as he gave short, quick thrusts. My eyes were squeezed shut in ecstasy as he continued to make me lose my mind. He wrapped his arms around my middle as our joining became hotter and the sounds of our lovemaking echoed throughout the chambers.

“You saved me.” He groaned.

“I had to.” I cried out.

His fingers found my clit and he pressed in and actually flooded me with his venom.

“Mitsukai, come for me.” He growled.

My claws gouged my wall and I was begging and crying out. My body and mind reacted and I joined him in his own head. I tried to keep in my screams as I violently reacted as the venom coursed through me and our combined yoki stole through me. I was rasping as delicious waves of pure pleasure coursed throughout me.

“So good my mitsukai. Oh Kamis!” he growled in my ear.

He held on tightly as he buried himself in me as his body arched. He emptied his seed as he groaned into my ear. I was shaking as the sublime continued to wash over me.

“You alright?” he asked.

“Hai. Jouichi, how many lovers have you had?” I asked exhausted.

“Why do you ask?” he asked amused.

“No reason. Just wondering where you learned some things.” I groaned as he pulled back.

“I have had my share. I was not a chaste individual in my youth. Once I mated Fusae I stayed true until you showed up and when you did, dear Kamis I imagined every way to take you and then some.” He stated brazenly.

“I see. I need sleep.” I said numbly.

“I imagine your sire will be here soon. Do you wish to leave?” he asked.

“Hai. Your private palace still stands but it is old and dusty.” I said in a tired tone.

He grinned and produced a shoki cloud and pulled us in. He felled us onto the futon and he hovered over me. He spread my legs with his knee and I knew he intended to take me again. I groaned as we made love yet again and he finally fell into oblivion next to me.

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

I woke up and I was not on the futon but in a funnel web. Jouichi was in his true form and I was next to his body. He was being protective of me and I was touched. Ishin would never have done this but then Jouichi knew I was not ashamed or repulsed by his true form.

“You are hairier then I figured you would be.” I stated softly.

I felt him shaking a little and I knew he was laughing. I brushed the ultra sensitive hairs with my palms and he shivered.

“Not yet. Do not change form yet.” I said as I ran my fingers up one leg then another.

“I am not allowed to see Ishin's true form very often. He prefers if I only see him in his humanoid one. I know I should know a kumo body much better but it is hazy.” I said as my hands brazenly touched him everywhere.

He continued to shiver and I heard an almost grunting sound come from him. I pressed my lips then my tongue along his kumo form and he suddenly changed. His face was flushed and he held my jaw.

“Truly you should know where you are touching.” He said breathlessly.

“I knew that I was kissing you there.” I said in a seductive tone.

“Oh.” He murmured.

“Karu took Mizuki in their kumo forms and guess what?” I asked jokingly.

“Oh I imagine you became a grandmere.” He laughed.

“Ever rutted in your true form?” I asked.

“Hai. When Hisashi was conceived but of course I was subduing that harlot.” He grumbled.

“What do you think of this era?” I asked.

“I rather like it. I feel freer and normal. I have no guilt in being with you and I know I should but I do not.” He said meeting my eyes.

“You finally figured out I am not your mother?” I asked teasingly.

“Hai. I want to take you again.” He said in my ear.

“Were you always this lustful?” I asked.

“I tried but then I was mated to the Honshu harpy. Wrap your legs around my waist.” He commanded.

I smiled and did as he asked. We were both still quite naked and he rubbed his head of his cock against my clit. I closed my eyes as hypersensitive flesh touched the other.

“I want to help save Naraku. I want you to tell me what I have to do.” He whispered in my ear.

“Hai.” I said biting back my groans.

“Please let yourself express your pleasure. Webs are for the most part rather sound proof.” He said licking my lips.

“Jouichi? I am so hot.” I said groaning.

“I want you in an inferno. When you used your yoki upon me that is what you did, you put me in a blaze that was consuming me.” He said hoarsely.

He arranged his member so that it slid up against my clit and he moved me in an up and down fashion. I clutched at his back trying to increase the friction which was delicious but in a teasing manner. I growled in frustration and he smirked.

“I assure you this feels quite pleasant.” He murmured.

“I know but not enough.” I groaned.

“That spring where I took you in the past.” He stated.

I nodded and I ported us there immediately. He stepped down into the spring and pulled me forward to the edge. I gazed at him heatedly as he inserted one finger into my sheath. I felt him pressing and prodding; when my face contorted is when he got a predatory smirk. He pressed in with some pressure and began stroking me. I gasped loudly and my legs shook of their own violation.

“Make your sweet nectar so I may drink from you.” He whispered.

I lifted my head and stared at him. My face crumpled as I felt jagged jolts of feeling shooting from my groin. I truly had no idea where these kumo learned their skills but I almost always would scream myself hoarse.

“You need to be filled?” he asked lewdly.

“Hai.” I groaned.

“You are soaking my hand my mitsukai. Shall I taste it? Are you as sweet as you normally are?” he asked me.

He kept up the pressure and stroking of the jewel within my sheath and he lowered his head to suckle and lick at my button of nerves. There was a huge pressure building in the deepest recesses of my mind and body. He inserted a finger into my backside and I felt the quaking begin.

“Let yourself go completely. Let yourself fall into heaven.” He purred.

My eyes were reddened and his voice was sending little pulses of joy down my spine. The connection I had with the ruling family of the Tsuchigumo always left me wanting and insane for more.

“Do you wish me to add another dimension? Can you handle it?” he asked in a whisper.

I nodded emphatically unable to speak. I knew my true nature was in control of my responses and I began a low growl as he pressed his thumb into my clit and then into my perineum. Flutters began as my belly felt warm. My muscles reacted by contracting spastically over and over. I could not breathe or make any noise as he continued to stroke me dually and his toxin ran amuck in my nether regions. I had known pleasure but this was on another level and it was similar to rutting with Kaito. My body was arching and he kept in time as he continued to work my dual cores. My nipples were erect and my breasts were tingling as a powerful orgasm began washing over me and from me. I lost control of myself completely and I heard him gasp and lower his head as he lapped at my release.

“So good.” He growled.

I threw my head back and cried out in a loud yell. I knew I was growling and snarling as everything in my mind and body exploded outward. I felt a rush unlike anything I had truly had known. Jouichi was growling himself as he plunged into my soaking center. I fought hard to maintain my form and he was growling louder then I. He was pulling on my senses as again I exploded outward and he yelled as his seed left his body. I had all I could take and I had to scramble back. I saw his red eyes and I lowered my head and growled; I snarled as I changed to my true form. My body was still wracked with unimaginable pleasure and I whined to the heavens. I watched Jouichi and he came closer to me.

“Such a beautiful beast you are. I wish I could take you like this and watch you howl.” He said in a seductive voice.

I whined and laid my head down. He kissed my nose and ran his fingers through my fur.

“Wake me later.” He said as he lay against my side.

I yipped and he yawned. I really could not understand Fusae at all. I would give almost anything to keep these males to myself completely. I curled my inu body around him as he slept and I did the same.

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

I was in the war room at Sendai. Jouichi and Ishin flanked me as I was plotting Magatushi's movements. He was haphazardly looking for Naraku and I needed to up the ante. I had delivered Panyu a crushing blow when I had decimated parts of Guangzhou and destroyed their harbors. I would not be hearing from Lord Sheng for awhile. Jouichi and Ishin had fought beside me and I was happy. The two were actually quite fond of each other. The former lord kept our relationship quiet and assisted his son whilst Naraku was gone. Kenta was shocked beyond measure to actually deal with the infamous Gaku Jouichi.

“I need to draw him out more.” I said scowling.

“You are further along inu, why not let Father and I do it?” Ishin asked.

“You really think you can taunt him the way I can?” I asked doubtfully.

“Lady Asuna please. Ishin and I can taunt the hell out of anything.” Jouichi said smirking.

“Well have at it.” I said sitting.

“Of course. Please go relax for now my beloved.” Ishin said leaning down kissing me.

I took with a soft sigh and I saw Jouichi's eyes heated. He bowed and I watched them both leave. I felt Asa and I turned.

“The time comes near Ayana.” She said bluntly.

“Magatushi is that close?” I asked.

“Hai. Come with me. I will keep the babe protected. Face the oni.” She said pulling me up.

She ported us to Kinki and I knew the beast was close. I saw Tamiko and I was surprised.

“Asa came to me with her plan and I have to say it is a good one.” She grumbled.

“Kumo and tengu do not like each other?” I asked.

“I do not care for Asa in particular. She is rather brazen and steals mates!” Tamiko growled.

“I did not take what did not come to me freely.” Asa said almost purring.

“Enough! Damn I wish to live a long while but not if I sound like this!” I snapped.

Asa laughed and Tamiko glared at her. I was intrigued by my Tengu's anger but kept silent. I knew Magatushi was close by and Asa had uncovered Naraku. My heart constricted painfully as I took in his form. She had managed to preserve him perfectly in his humanoid form and my heart actually hurt. I knelt beside him and picked up his lifeless hand.

“I love you so much. I have wronged you so many times in my arrogance and I wish I could beg your forgiveness. I have something of you right now and I pray that this works. I pray that I can give you another daughter that you wanted so badly.” I said kissing his forehead.

I felt her move in my belly and I kept in my tears. I stood up and I unmasked my general scent. I would allow Magatushi at me a little. I appeared as though I was bathing and I could sense a fleeting aura. He was playing cat and mouse with me and I grinned at his conceit. I was thrown but I landed gracefully and pulled Kumosaiga. He looked surprised as we circled the other.

“Why are you still around Magatushi? Certainly it is not because of the jewel?” I asked.

“Stupid question inu. I am around because I have life. Where is the body?” he snarled.

“You think you can take anything from him? I am connected to him on every level and you seriously think you could take in his yoki? You are an idiot as well as stupid!” I taunted.

He struck me hard and I was thrown; I landed in a web and I quickly got out of it. I looked up and saw a giant jorogumo. I knew it was an elder sister of Ayana's and I realized that the forest was full of them. Asa was making sure I was looked out for and I praised the Kamis for her. Magatushi it seemed was hell bent on finding him and I suddenly retreated to the caves. The bastard followed me and I moved very quickly. I was thrown forward quite hard and I landed near his body. I felt my cheek and I wiped away blood.

“So good to see you Naraku! Your harlot was right and I shall delight in taking your yoki!” he laughed.

He morphed a limp and pinned me to the rock floor; I screamed as he pierced my shoulder.

“You think I would not be prepared for deceit you stupid cunt? I will finally have enough power to destroy you and your whole cursed house!” he laughed manically.

I growled terribly as he laid his hands on Naraku and I watched as he began absorbing his flesh. I watched in fascination for a second and I suddenly broke the limb in half and pulled it out. I staggered and I watched as he enveloped Naraku's flesh. I threw the broken limb straight through where his heart should be and he staggered too. I saw Asa and Tamiko emerge from the shadows; Tamiko held his neck firmly and she was speaking in an ancient rhyme; Magatushi began shrieking and I watched as Asa too also spoke. I moved forward and what I saw frightened even me. Magatushi's features seemed to melt away and the mass fell. There was an ungodly scream and the lump of flesh fell. Asa and Tamiko pulled me away and I was shaking.

“What happened to him?” I asked horrified.

“He went sent on Asuna. Come now.” Tamiko commanded.

I looked over at Asa and she looked well pleased. She nodded to me and Tamiko ported us out. We appeared at Sendai and I could not believe how anti-climactic it had been. She marched me to Nobu and I sank to my backside. I just stared out into nothing as Nobu began sealing up my wound. I looked up and tears streamed down my face.

“When will we know?” I asked.

“I know not when he will appear but Asuna he was there in that mass.” She said kneeling by me.

“The bastard is gone?” I asked.

“Hai he is gone. We forced his soul out. It is an awful procedure but it is done. All your attacks on him had weakened him to the point of being desperate.” She said brushing my hair back.

“Asuna you need rest.” Nobu commanded.

“Hai. Jouichi and Ishin are searching for Magatushi. Can you find them for me Nobu?” I asked.

“Hai I will. Go rest. Your babe is fine but you did suffer a little trauma.” He said pulling me up.

I nodded and he led me to my chambers. I laid on the futon and waited till he left to cry softly.

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

His mind was in chaos but he sat up suddenly. He was covered in a thick silk quilt and he was on a mat of kumo silk. He looked around and saw jorogumo everywhere. He saw a powerful female come forward and she knelt by him.

“What do you remember?” she asked.

“I fell. Asuna was injured.” He said.

“She is well. The beast has been slain.” Asa said smirking.

“How? How is it I am even here?” he asked shocked.

“Because of your uniqueness Naraku. You have a life to return to.” Asa said standing and offering a plain white yukata.

“Why do any of this?” he demanded.

“Family.” She shrugged.

She left him and he dressed in the yukata. He closed his eyes and he remembered being with her as Onigumo. It had been erotic and animalistic as he remembered. He knew he must have already fallen when it had happened. He sensed her but he waited. He ported to the valley below the Sendai castle and stood. He did not wait long at all and he saw her. There was space between them and they stared at the other.

My chest was heaving as I stared at him. His wavy hair was blowing around him and I ran to him swiftly and I was in his arms. Our lips met and hands clutching at the other. I was crying and our babe kicked at that moment. Naraku knew and he pressed a hand to my stomach.

“There are no words for which I can say.” He whispered against my cheek.

“I had to try. When I realized I carried I knew I had no choice but to save you or die trying.” I said cradling his hands in my hands.

“What are we…?” he asked emotionally.

“We are having a girl.” I whispered.

He was choked up and we cleaved to the other. He was simmering in emotion and he was delving again in my mind. He saw my words to my sire and he growled out softly. He reached up and cupped my chin as his lips ghosted along my cheeks and eyes. He snarled suddenly and ripped open the kimono I wore. He attacked my lips and our bodies became pressed together. We both made snarls and grunts as we tore at our clothes. It had been a few months and he pulled me down as he managed to kiss and touch every bit of skin he could find. He held my thighs open and nipped at the inner flesh. He began to lick and nip along my one leg till he reached my toes. He kissed and sucked each small appendage and I wiggled in pleasure.

“Do you remember clearly?” I asked through the passion.

“Hai. I remember taking you as my ningen part. Kamis it was unreal! It was so primal and amazing.” He purred.

“That is when we conceived her. That part was so angry at me.” I said tearing up.

“I had been burned horribly Asuna. It was not a pleasant time but you did give me the most incredible pain relief.” He said kissing my ankle.

“I wanted to do more. I wanted to stop it but then you would not have been you.” I said in a sharp intake of breath.

He had gently spread my nether lips and licked all around my clit and core. I was so heated and needy but he was taking his time.

“Jouichi?” he asked.

“Hai. Occasional lover.” I moaned.

“I will not be outdone my lover. Did I see right and you dreamed of me? You dreamed of our first days.” He crooned.

“Hai. I dream of you a lot.” I murmured as his hands splayed on my belly.

“You carry my girl again. She is hanyou and she will mature more slowly.” He whispered in a seductive tone.

He was murmuring and slipped two fingers into me. I watched him as he slowly moved them in and out. I felt his claws scrape the sensitive spot and I nearly jumped. He injected the smallest bit of miasma and I screamed. I could not control my responses at all and he ported us inside the castle. We were in our shared chambers as waves of the most incredible energies surged through me. He looked highly pleased as I withered around.

“Beloved please!” I cried out almost in agony.

“Shall I be more than wicked?” he asked in my ear.

“Please!” I cried out.

He held onto me and lovingly caressed my body and I choked. He was within me stretching me.

“You accused me of being androgynous when we first met. You were quite right that I can shape shift whatever I wish.” He purred in my ear.

“Move please!” I begged.

He thrust gently but deeply. I was mindless as he filled me completely. I was thrown into bliss immediately as he continued to move. His lips were kissing my neck and his hands cupped my breasts. I was in another place entirely as we made love. He did not just dip but he melded within me and I could not truly say where he began or I ended. I felt everything and flowed with it all. I knew we completed but I was so immersed in his mind that I passed out when he did. We were sleeping when we were shaken awake by Ishin. His face held surprise and pleasure as he saw his brother restored.

“Naraku?” Ishin whispered.

“Hmmm?” my mate responded sleepily.

“Brother wake up!” Ishin cried.

Naraku came fully awake as did I. Naraku inclined his head and Ishin went to the armoire and got him a yukata. He turned his back and Naraku slipped the black silk on. I watched them both as Ishin hugged him tightly. It lasted but a moment but there was genuine affection between them even though Naraku bore his ningen soul. I noticed Jouichi at the door and Naraku stared at his sire from his previous life.

“Lord Jouichi.” He said bowing.

“Hisashi?” Jouichi asked shocked.

“Naraku. I am more then just your son kumo.” He replied.

“Yet you bear his soul?” Jouichi asked coming forward.

“Hai as well as my ningen side. Pardon me my lord as I wish to see my children.” He said bowing and leaving the room.

Ishin seemed amused and Jouichi stared at us both.

“How did you manage?” Ishin asked.

“Apparently Magatushi was still weakened from our previous battles. We had a short battle where I led him to Naraku's body. He tried to absorb him but Asa and Tamiko were ready; they sent him to hell as Naraku reabsorbed the flesh that Magatushi had borrowed.” I explained.

“Amazing.” Jouichi muttered.

“You and the babe are alright though?” Ishin asked.

“We are fine.” I said looking up.

We all fell silent and there did not seem to be anything else to say. Naraku had been restored by the grace of the Kamis and I had him back. I intended to see the jewel destroyed forever and no more would come after it.

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

I stood over the hills that surrounded the Western Palace and my hair whipped around me furiously. I was trapped in thoughts of the past and my current life. So much had changed in the past two decades that I could not believe where I stood. My relationship with my sire had suffered terribly after my bout of temper and I knew I had to fix it. I was due to give birth any day now and Naraku had decided to name her Emi. He spoke to my belly every moment and every chance he had. He was also enamored with our grand babe. Mizuki turned out to be an excellent mother at such a young age but I could see her face was haunted by her tryst with the Yosei. I sighed heavily and I ported into the Western Palace. I went to the repaired study and knocked upon the shoji door.

“Come!” my sire called.

I slid it open and walked in. I bowed low to him and his eyes perused me coolly. I straightened as our eyes met. My sire was aloof and cold as he never was to me.

“What do you want?” he asked coldly.

“I came to seek peace.” I said softly.

“Why? It is obvious where your loyalties are and where they are not!” he said furiously.

“I had to face the same realization that you need to face Father. I am a grown youki and one that has made her own way in the world. I shall and always will be your daughter but I have my own family and my own ways!” I said imploring him.

“We are your family as well Asuna. Regardless of one life or many; this Sesshomaru is still your sire and by the Kamis at some point you will know that!” he snarled.

“I know who my sire is but my sire would not expect me to make a choice between love and honor. That is what my sire is demanding and I cannot do it. My own sire made the same choice and would do the same again. Why should his heir be any different?” I asked.

“Because your sire did not fall in love with his enemy! Your sire mated an onna of goodness and love; not the most vile villain in Japanese history!” he yelled.

“I mated Naraku because it was destined. He is alive by the way and I have managed to dispatch Magatushi as well. I finished the job that you and Uncle Inuyasha could not do. I will not justify my feelings or my loyalties. If I am your daughter still then I should like to carry out my duties to this family as well.” I said meeting his eyes.

“It is about damn time you had some sense! You need to fill your seat on the council and most especially since you represent the House of Yuu's interests as well.” He said bluntly.

“Yuudai is head of the house.” I stated confused.

“You have the heir to the West and are mated to Yuudai. You do owe him some of your time.” My father said sitting.

I nodded and sat as well. He began talking politics and I listened carefully. He was still angry but it seemed he was setting it aside for now. After lengthy discourse I stood and stretched.

“You look as though your pup is due any time.” He commented.

“Hai.” I nodded.

“Naraku?” he asked growling.

“Hai. She is Naraku's daughter.” I said daring him with a look.

“Welcome home.” He said stiffly and left my presence.

I sighed but I knew it would take a little time. I had managed to thoroughly piss him off. He was still my father and he was still a force of nature as well. I ported out to Edo to see my uncle and the twins. I saw the pups running and giggling. Kagome came around the corner out of breath after having chased the rambunctious toddlers.

“I would swear they were Inuyasha's!” she cried.

“Well Uncle Yasha does spend a lot of time with them.” I laughed.

“Oh my Kamis Asuna. They are always changing and always knocking my house over! Inuyasha loves it and I am left to clean up!” she laughed.

“Then Juuna leaving you two the pups was a good thing.” I said smiling.

“Hai. I love them dearly as he clearly does. Here he comes.” She smiled.

“Hey kiddo! Whatcha doing here?” My uncle asked.

“See how you all were.” I said smirking.

“You look ready to pop.” He said laughing.

“I am ready to birth hai. Goodness they are busy.” I said smiling.

“Hai they are good pups. Gome thinks they make too much of a mess but hey they are inu.” He said looking wistfully.

“You miss her.” I said gently.

“Hai I do. I wish things could have been different. I fell for her and she kills herself. What does that say?” he said in disgust.

“It says she was brought up to be honorable and she thought she dishonored you. She was not trying to be selfish but to give all an out.” I said quietly.

“Yeah well I could and would have done right by her. Damn inu bitch!” he growled.

“Thank you uncle.” I laughed.

“I hear you tore up asshole's study. Boy he was pissed at you! He actually got drunk and said Naraku stole you from him.” He snickered.

“Naraku did not steal me. We were mated in the past and our souls were determined to find each other again.” I explained.

“Yeah yeah. I still do not like the jackass but hey I don't have to sleep with him either.” My uncle snorted.

I looked at the tree line and I noticed Jouichi. I waved and he waved back. Inuyasha growled low and I kicked the hanyou's foot.

“That is Ishin's sire uncle. Lord Gaku Jouichi this is my Uncle Inuyasha. Uncle Yasha this is Lord Jouichi.” I said in introduction.

“So you're the head bug of the head bug.” My uncle said jokingly.

“Hai I suppose you could say that but you do realize that kumo are not insects correct?” Jouichi asked amused.

“Didn't care to know. Nice to meet you.” My uncle said bowing.

“Interesting fellow. He is hanyou is he not?” Jouichi asked.

“Hai. My grandsire fell in love with his mother who was a hime. Anyway it obviously led to Uncle Inuyasha and offended my purebred father.” I said watching my uncle tackle the twins. Imari jumped on her chichi.

“Your Naraku has been hollering for you all over Sendai.” Jouichi said amused.

“I imagine he is. He gets nervous when I am to give birth.” I laughed.

“He does seem put out.” Jouichi laughed.

“I feel like I am standing upon a precipice and I am not afraid but just very awake. I see everything changing and I do know if I am ready.” I said suddenly.

“Things from what I understand have been changing since you were born Asuna. You have managed to reunite my mother's peoples and lands.” Jouichi said pulling me to him.

“Jouichi!” I said giggling.

“Hai? I do not impede upon their time. Naraku knows you said.” He said kissing me fully.

I lost myself for a moment and I winced as my back cramped. I pulled back and rubbed the cramping muscles. I walked a little and Jouichi took my arm. I smiled as I watched the pups jump on my uncle.

“The healer Nobu was my true sire in his previous incarnation?” Jouichi asked softly.

“Hai. Your mother and he were madly in love. Nobu was mated to the pups' mother at one time. Nobu is a very dedicated healer and gave her up. She turned to my uncle in her grief and became pupped. She killed herself and gave my uncle the pups. Nobu was crushed and blamed himself. His first mate was a ningen who died in childbirth.” I explained.

“How did you and he?” he asked interested.

“Bihua managed to get some venom into me and it seems it acts upon me strangely. I called on Nobu and basically attacked him.” I said smiling at the memory.

“That bastard? Kamis he always got on my nerves!” Jouichi snapped.

“Well he sired one of your sisters.” I said smiling wider.

“What? What else did my mother keep from me? Does he know?” Jouichi asked in annoyance.

“No he does not and he will never know.” I said firmly.

“Which sister?” he demanded.

“Toshimi.” I said gently.

“I swear I will kill the bastard if he touches a hair on her head!” Jouichi growled.

“Well he will not find out from me or you. She thinks Gaku was her father.” I shrugged.

“She was fairer of hair then the rest of us. Kamis she is the baby!” he said sighing.

“Well keep it to yourself. Damn!” I cursed.

He looked at me and scented my neck. He looked up and scowled.

“Your scents are changing. You must be starting labor.” He said concerned.

“Ouch! Owww!” I groaned as a spasm shot down my leg.

“Asuna, I am taking you to Korea.” He said moving to pick me up.

I looked up and my face betrayed my sudden fear.

“I have to push. Kamis!” I screamed.

“Asuna you cannot!” he said shaking his head.

“Aunt Kagome! Kagome!” I shrieked.

Jouichi took off into a run towards the house and I began shrieking in my mind. Naraku was by my side in an instant and I was panting.

“Asuna! She comes?” he asked.

“Hai. It hurts! Kamis it hurts.” I growled.

I saw my aunt running; she was followed by Jouichi and she stiffened when she saw Naraku.

“Forget I am here miko and help your niece.” He growled at her.

“Hai whatever. Lord Jouichi can you bring her to my house? Naraku, Inuyasha will freak if you show up in the house.” Kagome said.

“Fine then we shall go to my home!” Naraku hissed.

He picked me up and grabbed Kagome and ported via his miasma. Jouichi followed and we appeared at Sendai. Naraku laid me gently on the futon and he held my hand tightly.

“Honey, she is crowning. You need to push baby girl.” Kagome said with authority.

I nodded as Naraku helped me up and I bore down with everything in me. I expelled a huge amount of breath as I geared up again. I saw Ishin and Nobu run in and I cried out as the pain and stretching started to take place.

“Miko, allow me.” Nobu said sitting by Kagome.

“Look kumo! She is my niece and I will deliver this babe okay with you? Now get outta my way!” she snapped.

“Ningen!” Nobu snapped in return.

“Yeah and? I could purify your ass into next week; ask Naraku about that!” she hissed.

I screamed as I felt myself tear. Kagome proceeded to help guide Emi as her shoulders passed.

“Oh my Kamis!” she declared.

“What? Is something wrong?” I asked panicked.

“No sweetie! Look at your baby girl!” she said holding her up.

Emi had inky black hair and she bore no markings at all except the light blue markings above her closed eyes. On her head she bore two koinu ears that looked similar to my Uncle Inuyasha. She was whining as she jerked her limbs. Nobu took over and cut her cord and Kagome wrapped her in a fur blanket. She opened her eyes and they were the same brown of her ningen sire. Naraku's hands actually shook as he took her from Kagome and stared down at her.

“My beautiful little girl. She is so perfect my inu.” He said in awe.

“It seems the inu is very dominant in her.” Nobu declared.

“She is beautiful Asuna.” Ishin said smiling.

Tears stung my eyes as I beheld her. I would never have imagined that I would birth a hanyou but she seemed even more perfect that way. She was the culmination of what Naraku and I were. I said nothing and gazed at her in total love. I heard the compliments but it seemed as though it was only my hanyou mate and I in the world. He was next to me and his finger was lovingly rubbing her cheek.

“I owe you everything my koi. I owe my very life to you. I am your slave till the end of days. I am yours to command and just say what it is you want. I never thought I could be this happy.” He declared.

I pulled him forward and kissed him with much emotion at his declaration. There still needed to be much organization but things were clicking into place. I was so happy at the moment that nothing could shatter it. I looked around the room and realized I was where I belonged and where I was supposed to be. My life was flawed and I was fractured between males I loved very much but the one I loved above all others was by my side for the rest of my life. I had found my peace and the rest was manageable. I had love and I had family. Nothing mattered more and I was full of happiness. I was truly home.

A/n:

I have begun the sequel to this story and it is called, `The Heirs Apparent'. The rest of the story unfolds but it will be through Mizuki and the rest of the kids! There are a few surprises in store and I hope you all will read! Thank you all who continued and continue to read through my mind's wanderings. I truly enjoyed seeing the reviews and they inspired me as they do all writers. Please review or drop me a line if you wish…I really do like thoughts on my stories and plot bunnies are always welcome. Thank you again if you have made it this far! The sequel will be posted at Mediaminer.org…

Much love…

Marie Morgan

A/n: I have decided to post the origins of Eyal (aka Vlad Tepest Dracul). It takes places from his beginnings and will run alongside and up until `I am the Moon'. If you would like to know more please read..'Out of Babylon'.