Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or its characters; that right belongs to Rumiko Takahashi. Nor do I own Diabolik Lovers or its characters; that right belongs to Rejet and their development team. I also credit the opening part to Stephen King for hijacking his concept for Needful Things (great book).

"Is that really it?"

"Yes."

"Even with all the research I put in, this is not what I expected."

"Appearances can be very deceiving."

"Indeed."

"So, this is what you want."

"Yes, here is where it needs to be shipped too. And of course, my name."

"Thank you."

Tired and age weary eyes watched as the handsome, borderline beautiful man's face wrinkled in consternation as he took one more look at his purchase. Disbelief coloring his face as he signed the paperwork, agreeing to the terms of payment. Once he was gone, the ancient-looking proprietor stood up.

"Get in here. You need to ready it for shipping. And make sure you give the thin manual to the recipient."

Reaching out, placing an weather and spotted hand on the clear covering of the case. The hand seemed to morph. Revealing smooth, pale skin with long, almost delicate fingers tipped in pointed nails as it tapped on the glass. Almost as if trying to gain the attention of what was contained within.

"Sire? This is... Does this mean that the time has come for the circle to full term?"

"We can only hope for The Doll's sake. Now quit dawdling."

Parcel

The soft knock at the door drew the attention of all seven residents in the mansion. Who was starting to go about their day? Cautiousness glinting in the depth of six sets of those eyes while the last looked confused. Quickly though, they were all in the foyer as a familiar opened the door, revealing a very short, man who had large round, almost bulbous eyes. In his hand was a clipboard and small brown paper wrapped package.

"Sakamaki Residence, I presume. I have a delivery for one Ayato Sakamaki."

Said male stepped forward, only to be stopped by a hand on his shoulder. Turning green eyes to look at the person holding him. Be quirked an eyebrow and shrugged off his brother's hand. Giving him a cocky smile as he continued to the short man. Knowing he didn't order anything. Though it was not completely unheard of for their father to send things to the house, he never sent anything to anyone in specific.

"That'd be me."

"Oh good, here sign this, please. And I will have the crate brought in."

With that said, Ayato had the clipboard shoved into hands along with the small brown-papered package. Only to have the short man waddle down the steps to a white delivery truck. Where an automated lift screeched to life as he signed the paperwork. Knowing that his siblings and Yui were behind him, watching as the lift came back down.

The small man, who could not have been more than three and a half feet tall, was wheeling towards them a large wooden crate that had in bright red, large print FRAGILE stamped over it. The fact that the forward of a man was easily maneuvering it like it was nothing as he turned it and pulled it up the short set of steps was intriguing.

He was stepping back as the man reached the porch and gave him a bland look for entrance to the house, which was given when he stepped back. Curiosity piqued as he tracked the progress until the man set the dolly on the floor, wiggling it out from under the six-foot-tall box. Only to have him march up to him and hand him a plain white envelope with a stamp on the front of it.

"I hope you can get some use out of this. Just know this, if I had to equate this to a chess piece. It'd be the Bishop."

With that said, the man gave them all a small polite bow at the waist, grabbed the dolly, and was out the door. He was closing it without making a sound and leaving Ayato to look at the crate in wonderment that had been given to him. Curious, he started to move towards it before a distinct cough stopped him in his tracks.

"I think before you get too excited. You should read the letter and open that little package. This could very well be a trap."

Tilting his head and shooting a blithering glare at his older brother, even if he was right. Curling his lip in annoyance, Ayato looked at the letter. Seeing it was addressed to him. In the upper right corner, he saw a logo and read it aloud.

"Needful Things! Rare antiques and obscure collectibles! Where you will always find what you are in need of. Salem, Massachusetts United States."

He paused at that. This came all the way from America. There was no other indicator other than his name on the envelope in the elegant script that he knew was not his father's. It was masculine in origin, though.

Splitting the top, he pulled out the thick cardstock from inside and looked it over, front and back before reading aloud once more.

"Mr. Sakamaki, you are now the proud owner of The Doll. It is the rarest of the rare and obscure of collectibles. I hope that you find much use for your purchase.

The Doll is a versatile thing. My employee should have handed you a small package wrapped in brown paper. It contains all you will need to awaken The Doll and bind it into your service.

I must caution you, though. The Doll is autonomous and has a will of its own. But if you bind it to you appropriately, it will obey you. There are just two things you should be aware of. Due to the autonomous nature of The Doll, it will often... push back. And that it is the equivalent of Bishop on the chessboard.

Sincerely,

Mr. Taisho."

Creasing his brow at the strange message, Ayato again flipped the paperback and forth and making sure that there was no more writing anywhere. Before looking up a bit annoyed at Reiji. Who had a look on his face as he smiled that thin, condescending smile.

"What?!"

When he just got a quirk of an eyebrow, before said brother motioned for him to open the small package. Ayato growled low in his throat. He was beginning not to want to bother with this Doll, whatever it was. But he couldn't help but feel curious about it either.

Without preamble, he tore the paper, revealing a slim, black leather-bound book. That had been embossed with gold leafing Owners Manual on it. Turning over and inspecting it, he saw nothing out of the ordinary, before flicking the small clasp that held it close and opening it — once more reading aloud.

"You are the owner of The Doll. Please read this manual to its entirety so that no mistakes are made. The Doll is an artifact that has been around for the last five hundred years. Its origin is only known to The Doll itself. But do not despair. If you, the new owner, awaken The Doll correctly, it will have no choice but obey you completely.

But beware. The Doll is capable of rational thought and can refuse. It had a will of its own. There are a few things you need to know before you awaken The Doll. And they follow as such.

1. The Doll is Autonomous and has a name. (Ask for it yourself) Capable of self-governing. Though if bound rightly, it will be more than amenable to the commands it gives.

2. Due to the length of time, The Doll has existed, it has become a well-rounded, versatile servant. It is capable of doing anything from house words to self-defense and fighting.

3. The Doll is not what it appears to be. Do not let its appearance fool you. Five hundred years is a long time to live, and it has gained a lot of knowledge. Especially in the area of killing... efficiently.

4. The Doll comes with a journal that contains the notes of every owner that has had it prior to you. A wise man would read this to help understand The Doll well.

5. The last thing you should know about is there are two things that The Doll won't tolerate and will go berserk on. The first is the harm or murder of a child. (Do not do this if you value your sanity and life.) The second is do not force The Doll to certain acts. (Ask The Doll for the specifics. Again this is for your safety.)"

He paused, looking up at the crate. Snorting as he wondered just what the hell this 'Doll' was. It was old, older than him and all his brothers. Giving a small shake of his head as he felt board with all the reading, Ayato wanted to wake the doll up.

Looking back to the book, he silently read the incantation in the book that would release the seals on the crate. Meaning it was warded. Smiling darkly, he knew this was going to be fun. Moving to stand before the crate, ignoring Reiji, who was telling him stop. Ayato spoke the words of release. Dancing back as the walls of the crate fell away. Revealing a tall coffin made of silver and what looked like polished white wood.

Sucking in the air, he stared at what was in that coffin. There behind the faint sheen of glass was a petite woman who looked asleep. She had long black hair that framed a pale heart-shaped face. Eyes shut as she lay there, motionless in her repose. Black lashes contrasting against her cheeks that held no life in them as they blended into a small, pert nose above pink bow-shaped lips that could only be made for kissing. In her crossed hands was a massive leather-bound tome. Which he guessed was the journal mentioned.

It, or rather she, was wearing a long, thin white kimono that only made her already pale skin more pronounced. But only defining the perfect, cold beauty she had. Whoever had made her, had good taste in what a man deemed true beauty. And Ayato wanted to have it all to himself.

Unaware that he had reached out, he placed his hand on the glass. Only to have it pop out of existence. Causing his hand to surge forward and touch her and feeling nothing but cold from the soft, pliable flesh of her face.

A small surge of power rushed through his fingertips. It was exciting him as he glanced down at the book again. Eyes are scanning the incantation to awaken The Doll and smiling as he spoke aloud.

"Watashi wa keiyaku ga owaru made, watashi ga meirei shite iru yō ni watashi no chi de anata o kōsoku shimasu." [I, Ayato Sakamaki, bind you with my blood to do as I command until our contract is finished.]

Then lifting his thumb to his mouth, he bit down on it. Sucking his blood from it, before leaning in and kissing The Doll. Shoving the blood through those pretty pink lips. Enjoying how soft they felt, even if they were colder than ice. Once he was done, he pulled back as the ground underneath him began to glow with archaic runes.

Looking down into the face, he saw color flush the cheeks a soft pink as lips parted as a breath was being drawn in through red-stained lips. It was when The Doll opened its eyes and looked back at him that he knew he would have fun with this. Soon the power vanished, and he stood there staring at his new acquisition.

Those to blue eyes darted from him to the others in the room, before coming back to him. Or instead what he held in his hand as it stepped slowly from the coffin. Those blue eyes were lifting to look at him once more. Pinning him with a look, he couldn't quite read as it spoke.

"I am The Doll, Kagome Higurashi. I take it; you are my new owner. May I inquire as to your name, sir."

The sweet voice that came from those lips had him smiling as she finished speaking — bowing briefly at the waist, as her hands still cradled the large book to her stomach.

"I am Ayato Sakamaki; Your's truly."

When she righted herself, she quirked an eyebrow in what could only be deemed amusement as she repeated what he said back to him.

She was somehow making it seem like she was making fun of him. Though her face and eyes showed, she was serious.

"Ayato-sama is fine."

The soft snickering from his twin Laito as well as the hushed giggle from his other twin Kanato, made him frown. The book did say that she was autonomous but would obey him. So wondering how to test this out, he bit back a growl when Reiji spoke up.

"That book is your history, right. The Journal from all your other Masters. Give it to me."

Watching to see if she would obey, Kagome looked at him first. Her eyes were asking silently for permission and smiling as he 'hnn' at her to go ahead. Tracking her as she practically floated across the foyer floor without making a sound. Her hips were swaying slightly under the Kimono.

"Ayato-sama has okay this. No matter where you open it to Sir, you will start at my last owner. What year is it? And where am I at?"

The questions were simple, but so out of place. Lifting an eyebrow at Reiji, who was in the process of taking the journal, to answer.

"It is July 2nd, two thousand and seventeen. And you are in Japan, on our private property outside of Tokyo."

It was barely noticeable, but then again, he was not human, so he spotted it quickly, stiffening of her shoulders had him curious as to why she would react like that. Her body relaxed as she gave a polite bow with just her head and turned, making her way to stand before him.

"So... what are you capable of."

"Did you not read the owners manual."

At her smart-assed quip, Ayato glared down at her. Finding her not the least bit intimidated. Lifting said book up, he showed it to her, via waving it under the nose. Her eye flickered down to it, then back up to him. Her brow creased as she remained silent and looking a bit confused.

"What?"

"It is thinner than I remember."

Her words gave him pause as he darted out a hand and grabbed her hair, pulling her closer to him as he leaned down. Eyes narrowing dangerously at her.

"What do you mean."

"Exactly what I said. Thinner than I remember. There are only but two or three pages in there. The last time I saw it, there were over two dozen pages. With full explanations of what I was capable of. And since I am in a comatose state between Owners, I do not know where I go to stay until I am acquired again, Ayato-sama. So it is possible someone damaged the book. And my last master was in the late Eighteen Hundreds in England."

Going still, Ayato let what she said to sink in. He was not stupid by any means. So that meant that he had an incomplete version of the manual. And whoever ordered this little toy for him didn't want him to have complete knowledge of what she was capable of. But it was her stating the last time she was awake, was almost two hundred years ago.

He knew that Reiji would have caught on, as well as Laito. Who he saw was next to her — lifting a strand of her hair to his lips. He felt annoyed by his brother getting close to what was his. What kept him from reacting was three things. One being his Doll had her own will. Two looked agitated as she moved to the side and closer to him. And the fact his brother didn't like her doing that. The third was the book did state she was versatile from domestics to self-defense, which he wanted to see.

The tension radiating off Kagome didn't go missed by Laito, who just learned in sniffing at her neck as his hand came back to her hair. It was so quick, Ayato was in shock. Her hand came up and grasped Laito's as she turned to look at him. A smile on her lips that was sickeningly sweet, while those blue eyes were dead.

"It is rude..."

She spoke she spun and jerked Laito's hand up behind his back, as a knee came up and pressed into his thing, making his knees buckle.

"To touch and sniff, like a dog..."

In the next instant following her next words, Laito was on the ground with her on his back. One knee in the small in the pressure point to exact pain and disable while her leg moved, sliding from the confines of the kimono, to step on Laito's neck, heel first.

"What does not belong to you, vampire."

The tension in the room escalated at her words as she ground her heel down into his brother's throat. She was drawing out a small choked gasp. There had been no wasted movement. No extra exerted amount of energy as a slightly killing aura rolled off her as she stared down at Laito. Though her calling him a vampire, he felt himself stiffen and go on guard, as well as all his brothers.

"Kagome!"

He bit out her name is a harsh tone. Eyes blazing as she stiffened and was up, off Laito and staring at him. Her eyes wide as her actions dawned on her. A small flicker of fear in her eyes as she stared into his own green eyes.

"I am sorry, Ayato-sama. I await your punishment."

He wanted an explanation from her on how she knew what they were. And just how the hell she got the drop on his brother, who was sitting up on the floor, glaring daggers at her, while still giving her a dirty, appreciative look.

"You have a lot of explaining to do. Starting with how you know what we are."

The demure way she dropped her eyes, as her hands came to rest on her as she softly replied her ascent to him. While he began to plan her punishment later.

"Fade from light, turn to dark. Slip through the cracks of time. Find no place to belong, be obedient. A thrall of perfection with no will to be your own shall you have. Be chained to one who will not return desires. Be bound to one who will hurt you. Be tethered, unable to speak, to act freely. Be fastened with no powers of your own to call your own in times of need. Time will not give release to peace of heart, mind, soul, and body for eternity under a blood contract. Until blood is shed or death granted."

It was a mantra for her when she slept between awakenings. Unaware of the going on in her coma. She just replayed all that happened, good and bad, with her last master as the curse played over and over in her head — reminding her that she was nothing more than an object now. Bound to a fate that was inescapable as far as she knew.

So when power flared through her as the ritual was done. Kagome opened her eyes to see a green-eyed red-haired Vampire before her. Making her groan internally. Just what she needed, to be bound to another Vampire or demon. The young boy that had acquired her in the late 1800s in England had been attached to a rather powerful raven demon. And she could do nothing to harm the bastard without either incurring her owners wrath.

That man, or demonic butler, had taken great pleasure in torturing her, without telling his master precisely what she was. Oh no, he wouldn't let that information slip though he had found out that she was not defenseless. And his advances to take her purity from her was halted when she defended herself. A well-placed knee to the groin or a twisted nipple was a great deterrent as well as bathing in special herbs that would repel him.

But when the contract was completed, and the boy died. Kagome fell back into the deep sleep. So as she listened, replied, and assessed to herself. She came to realize that these vampires were exceptionally young looking, meaning they had not lived passed two hundred. And her owner was an arrogant, cocky bastard who always wanted her way. But the gleam in his eyes told her that he would be mischevious and knew how to have fun. She just hoped he didn't push her too far.

It was in an instant that she reacted after stepping away from another vampire who looked just like her current owner, only wearing a fedora. When he kept up his obscene interaction with her person, while Ayato-sama (right king of the world here) steamed about not having all the manual, she was moving with increased speed, borne of years of training, fighting, killing, and assassination for her prior owners. Pinning the shocked Vampire to the ground, while calling him out on what he was.

It was then that she heard the cruelty and anger lacing her owner's voice. Standing up and meeting his gaze without flinching. She knew punishment would be had. But his words left her off balance though the dark look in his eye did promise punishment.

Yui and the Brothers

It had been a few months since his 'Doll' had come to live in the house. And Ayato could honestly say nothing had been very dull since then. He had a lot of amusement.

Kagome was a complex walking contradiction. He had immediately claimed she was to sleep in Yui's room. Only Shu and Reiji had picked up on why he said that. Because she liked 'her' space and if it was always invaded, she reacted spectacularly. The proof was how she had taken Laito by surprise while reprimanding him. But of course, that had been a double-edged sword against him as well.

He had crept into the room while they were sleeping. He was seeing Kagome spooning Yui to her. It had been too much. Their Bride to be being held by the pale, cold perfection of his doll. Who was of all things smiling contentedly holding Yui, as if it was a natural thing looking like a mother with her child.

Thinking of climbing into the bed as he occasionally did with Yui to hold her while she slept. He got a soft, low warning growl. It had made him pause for but a second. Laying down on top of the blanket, Ayato soon found himself on the floor, staring up at the ceiling. There had been no second warning growl. No, he had been pushed onto the floor before he was looking up into hazy pink eyes and flashing blue ones.

Cursing under his breath, Ayato got the message. Of course, he got his revenge when he punished Kagome after they all awoke later in the day. Mood sour when he pulled himself from his bed, his brothers had given him a questioning look. Not bothering to reply, he had just gone about the day as they had all gone to school, leaving Kagome at the house alone. He had not missed the look in her eyes when she had been informed they had school.

It was a few days later she had approached him about attending school. Her neck was wrapped in a bandaged from where he had fed from her. The mark not fully closed, which irked her to no end. And he was coming to love to see the annoying flash in her eyes. Oh yes, he was learning that he could take, but giving her something was the right way to get what he wanted from her as well. So he had, of course, talked to Reiji about her as well going to school.

Reiji was another beast all together where Kagome was concerned. He was powering through that journal, learning all the things that had gone missing from the Owner's Manual he had been given. And at times would interrogate her while they ate. Though, Ayato knew that he was trying to find fault with her. She had perfect manners, presented herself (Most times) as a proper lady, and often spun him in circles about propriety. He was pissing his older brother off to no end.

Everyone got amusement from it. Since Reiji controlled the house with a damn near Iron Fist, he was always taking everyone to task in one way or another. Like he was the king of the castle. But still, seeing Kagome use his own rules and manners against him was satisfying. It was her past and knowledge she had gained that made Reiji keep coming back for more. And Ayato was beginning to think his brother had a masochistic streak.

It was during one of those sessions of asking Kagome that Reiji got her to speak on the two things that would anger her. Of course, we all knew about harming, killing, and the implied rape of a child. But he had been persistent in what the second thing was. Ayato was curious as well. They all knew by this time to respect her space to a degree. Laito had been laid out two more times. She just stated simply Force of a specific nature being done to her. While it answered the question for Reiji, it was not accurate. This had not amused Ayato, but let it be.

Though he found her demeanor to his triplet Kanato one of those contradictions to herself, he had watched as his brother gone into a full-blown tantrum. Crying and screaming about something he didn't care about. Only to suddenly have the room silent as the crack of skin against skin hung in the air. It had drawn everyone's attention.

There was Kagome hand only inches from a stunned Kanato who was wide-eyed. Knowing his brother, he knew he was seconds from attacking Kagome, who was glaring down at him. Blue eyes meeting those wide purple. In the next second, before Kanato's temper could be fully unleashed, she was hugging him to her chest. His brother a bit red in the face as she petted his hair and talked calmly to him. She was soothing him as she explained that what he was doing was the wrong way to get attention and what he wanted.

The whole thing went on for a few minutes. Ayato saw clearly that she had a strong protective and nurturing instinct. He had seen it when he had tried to climb into bed with Yui and her that one night. That looks she had given him was not a threat, but of a person protecting their child. Hence her strong abhorrence for harm coming to a child. And was fierce about it too.

Afterward, she had led Kanato by the hand from the room, still admonishing his now quiet brother. But telling him, they were going to bake cookies or some such thing. He was not ignorant. He saw the looks his brothers had given the brazen woman. She was showing a lot of stuff that was found rather desirable in a potential mate. And she was his property, as she put it to Laito each time she schooled his ass.

The next brother Ayato had seen her interact with had been Subaru. Though that was indirect. Since it, he had been arguing with him and of all things, cutting her hair. He liked that it was long and almost to her ankles after two hundred years of sleep. It framed her body nicely, accentuating the curves. Her rebuttal had been that it was not easy to maintain it. Wanting to cut it at her shoulders, to which he said no shorter than her mid-thigh. Next thing both of them knew, a pissed Subaru had his knife out and had cut it to the right above the swell of her butt.

Rage had almost blinded him at what his youngest brother had just done. Though there was a small smirk playing on Subaru's lips as he glared back him. Only to flinch when Kagome shrieked like a banshee and kicked him in the shins.

Subaru had turned his gaze on her only to have her grasp his arm and jerk him behind her. Following them, Ayato had felt his brothers appear. He was wondering what had set the woman off this time. He didn't miss the horrified look they had when they saw her hair was shorter, and Subaru was still holding the rest in his free hand.

Kagome had drug Subaru to the garden and gave him only a soft warning. Then it started. The ensuing battle was fast-paced, though Subaru was by far stronger than her and faster. Kagome had kept pace and was damn near able to block most of his attacks. While getting in her hits, that had incensed his younger brother. Who was smiling and enjoying the farce?

Once it was done, Kagome panting, sweating, and glaring up from the ground where Subaru had knocked her on her butt. Ayato could tell his usual loner, and volatile little brother looked happy as he thrust a hand out and helped her to stand up. Getting one of the rare genuine smiles that made Kagome's face light up like the sun. Further sucking him and his brothers into the mystery that she was. Before leaving them all stunned, by claiming that the length was perfect and thanking Subaru with a pat to the cheek before sashaying off into the mansion.

After that incident, Ayato had taken to sparring with her himself. Realizing that she was good at self-defense, but was quite capable of various weapons. Her favorite being a bow and arrow. That she used to torture Laito, who seemed to love it, oddly enough. Making Ayato thinking that his brother had lost what little intelligence he had.

When it came to Shu, Ayato had figured that his eldest brother didn't care. He was the epitome of what a true procrastinator was. When Ayato had one night asked Kagome what else she had been trained to do by her other owners. Trying to insinuate other, more intimate things, when she told him she could play the piano and harp on top of being trained during her time at the French Court to sing professionally. The way her nose scrunched up told him loads about what she thought of that era.

Wanting to hear her, Ayato had requested she play the harp and sing. The small delighted smile she had flashed him as they made their way to the ballroom, had caused him almost to stumble. It was not often that she gave him such open, honest looks. No, she regarded him with a detached, calm manner as a proper servant should. While being free with others.

During her playing a rather intriguing rendition of Beethoven's Requiem on the harp. Her voice was lilting as it sang wordlessly to the tune. Ayato had felt another presence appear. He knew of Shu's love for music, especially classical. So him showing up was not a surprise. What was when he took his earbuds out and stood there, hyper-focused on Kagome as she played and sang.

The sight she made as her body curved around the harp, small pale fingers plucking the strings as if she was caressing a lover. The way her mouth was parted to allow the tune to flow from her lips. Eyes closed, unaware of the sight she made. Ayato had the urge to command Shu leave. That he was not privileged to see her as she performed. But knew that it would be wise not to do that. Shu was older, thus more powerful. A sight to see when he reacted to outside stimuli.

It had been later that night when he had gotten Kagome alone. In his room that he had acted on his desires. Grabbing her and tossing her onto his bed. A thing she had grown accustomed to in her time at the mansion. She just watched him with wary blue eyes as she stayed passive. He was over her, pressing her hands to her side with his legs as she bared her neck to him. She was submitting but not at the same time. Thrilling him that she was not easily broken.

He was biting down on her exposed flesh, drinking only a little before stopping closing the bite before shifting her clothes with his hands to bare her shoulders and decolletage to him. Biting and sealing repeatedly. Before suckling over the now-closed marks to show she was his. Not once did she whimper or cry out. She was refusing to struggle as she just watched him.

He could smell her body's reaction to what he was doing. And it only furthered him in his need to dominate her. As he ripped the front of her shirt open, giving him a magnificent view of the breast and the slightly shadowed valley between. Before once more biting, drinking, sealing, and marking her. It frustrated him that she just lay there taking it. Even as her body told him how much she enjoyed it.

After a while, Ayato stopped. He let his hands slide down the curve of her waist to her hips. Fingers curling into her flesh, pain flickering briefly in those blue eyes as she just stayed there. The small stiffening in her body told him to be cautious. He was already having experienced her reaction to him, forcing himself on her. That had been his only warning. He knew in that second she could kill him if she wanted to.

There was crackle of power in the air between then, pulling back as he rolled to the side and pulled her into his arms. The taste of her sweet blood still in his mouth as he nuzzled the back of her head. He knew she was a masochist to a degree. Her body told him that, but being denied the right to bed was angering him.

"It is not yours, you know. Unless I give it."

Her soft words in the silence made him stiffen as he pressed his body more firmly against her back. He was drawing a small shudder from her sensitized body. He wanted to take her purity. Taint it with his darkness. To make her completely submit to him. Hear his name being ripped from her lips as she broke under and around him. His instincts demanded it but enjoyed the fact she refused him continually. This woman was wild, sexy, and demanding and causing the blood in his body to burn.

A soft grunt was all he gave as he squeezed her tighter. Feeling her hands lay on his as she just sighed. Body relaxing as her breathing evened out. Telling him, she was asleep in his arms and showing him via actions that she trusted him, ultimately. Taking the sign not to press further, Ayato to slept.

She was adaptive. That was the best way to describe her at all times. Sure she had her share of messed up adventures and bullshit dumped in her lap. But Kagome was proud of the fact she could adapt quickly. Learn and mold herself into something better, stronger.

And she was living in the mansion with six young vampires. Who were all different as day and night helped keep her on her toes. In the months of being there, Kagome had come to learn a lot. Each brother and her interactions with them were amusing. And she had a lot of fun teasing, mothering, intellectual conversation and love of the fine arts.

Her owner was a jealous and possessive man. Cruel, at times, in his sadistic tendencies. But it was nothing new to her. No, some of her masters had been demons. Twice she had been bound to Vampires. Otherwise, all her other owners had been human. Ayato-sama, as he liked to call himself, was fun to irritate. He was a blend of volatile temperament, smugness and arrogance, and prankster that was charming.

His reactions to her involvement with his brothers and Yui were never disappointing. The way he would get afterward was always aggravating but enjoyable. He knew how to make her body come alive with what he 'deemed' as 'punishment' for holding her. Well, after learning to try to force himself on her was a terrible thing. He had tried only once. And for once, she had given a warning instead of killing.

Now, as she lay there under him, watching as he bites her over and over, leaving hickeys on her flesh. Kagome wanted to give in to what was being offered. But she was cursed, so no matter how much she wanted to say screw it and be taken. The same old words came from her lips. Leaving her to watch as her denial of him sent him through a complex series of emotions. Before having her body pulled against his, showing her just how she affected him. Only to will herself to sleep.

Mukami's Acquaintance

Time was getting hard-pressed. And as much as Ayato didn't want to work with the fake vampires, he knew they had to. A set of Pureblood Vampires had taken an interest in Yui. Calling her Eve, just at the bastards did. She was a sacrificial bride, yes. And the first to survive past the first awakening. She was making her blood all the sweeter.

Even if she had had Cordelia's heart implanted in her as an infant, but he didn't like the fact that the Mukami's were now staying in their home. And were taking an avid interest in Kagome, who he had started to keep by his side. Arm possessively wrapped around her waist. He was holding her close to him.

Though he couldn't keep her there at all times since they didn't share all the same classes, she had tested into several advanced one months ago when she took the placement test and was admitted to the school. Of course, she had been placed in several of Ruki Mukami's classes and Reiji's.

Said boy had taken an interest in her the day she had started. But kept his distance smartly. Reiji had been protective. Kagome shared a phys ed class with Yuma and Shu. Of course, the tall Mukami just ignored her, mostly at least until she had shown him up. Not the least bit remorseful at being better.

It was Azusa Mukami that creeped him out and had him trying to keep Kagome by his side. The male was unhinged. While he showed the natural Sadistic tendencies of a vampire, he was a real Masochist. Yui had explained while she had been captive what he 'liked' to do to himself and her. That would only make Kagome go all nurturing on the boy. He didn't want any of them endeared to her. She would be exceptionally protective, and there'd be no stopping her.

A small smirk played on his lips as he recalled when the four of them had moved in, and Kou Mukami had gotten violent with Subaru. It made him want to laugh as to how Kagome had stepped in and knocked the pretty idol on his ass and pinned him like she had Liato the first night she had been in the house. Her cold voice was echoing in the silence as she told him, pressing her bare heel into his throat that she would not tolerate anyone harming or upsetting Ayato-sama's brothers and Yui.

Kou had tried to attack her after she let him up, only to find that she didn't even flinch as he grabbed her by the throat threatening her. She just laughed at him before kicking him swiftly in his family jewels and making him let her go as he dropped to the ground. Crying in pain as her small hands clamped onto his chest and twisted them painfully. She was delivering a clear warning not only to him but the other three that she would kill if she had too.

Oh, this was fun. Whether Kagome realized it or not, she was making herself an even more desirable target for them all. Hell, he knew that she had been teaching Yui 'in secret' some self-defense. Not that pancake would be able to defend herself as she was too meek. But it was fun to spy on them from a safe distance. He had to agree with Laito, and it was hot. Their bodies pressed together as she took Yui through the motions, or correct her when she was not doing it correctly.

Letting his hand slide down, so it was resting on her upper thigh. Ayato just grinned wider as the other nine males in the limousine shot him dirty looks. Yeah, he was enjoying this. Even if he felt a small bony elbow digging painfully into his side at his actions, he didn't care. He was flicking his eyes to Yui, who was clueless as she stared from one person to another, trying to figure out why the tension in the car had increased.

Life was becoming more chaotic for her. She had found out that there were four more vampires. Who had whisked poor Yui away? Only to have her returned by Ayato. Of course, Kagome was curious, since she could tell that they were not born as vampires, but turned. And for some reason, she felt as if the aura they gave off was familiar.

Each interaction she had with them from the time she started school to now with them living in the Sakamaki mansion had been amusing. Though it made Ayato even more possessive, to the point, he was always touching her. But that was par for the course. The longer she was with an owner, the more touchy-feely and possessive they got. Though, she was sure this had nothing to do with the curse — just his natural base nature as a vampire.

It was quite endearing to her. Not that she would tell Ayato and inflate that fucking ego of his more massive. Oh no, she was going to keep it to herself and enjoy the fireworks. As she continued, her face blanked when all nine of the other males glared at Ayato, who had moved his hand from her waist to rest on her thigh as she dug her elbow very subtly into his ribs. She was leaning her head back to rest against his shoulder to reassure him.

Each of the Mukami's had a run-in with her. Ruki had several advanced placement classes with her. But had not tried to get too close due to Reiji. Yuma, as he was called, had a small grudge when she had outdone him in phys ed. Not her fault, she was little and faster when he couldn't use his unnatural speed and strength. Kou, well, he had gotten what she was now terming 'Laito treatment' when he had gotten aggressive with Subaru. As well as a lecture and demonstration about how to act.

She had very little time with Azusa, and his penchant for self-mutilation sickened her but made her want to hold him. Ayato didn't want her to be near him alone. Of course, she had heard what Yui said about the young male. Hell, Ayato barely allowed her to mother Kanato without going nuts on his fraternal twin. It was again something she was used to. She was having traveled with demons and learning their mannerisms so par for the course.

Karlheinz, Father Dearest!

They had all felt the aura before the man himself walked through the front doors. Anger that was barely contained washed through him. Only the feel of a small hand on his back kept him from losing it. The blank smile on his father's face as he looked at all of them gathered before coming back to linger on him. Ayato didn't like that gaze looking on him.

It took a few seconds to realize that he wasn't looking at him, himself. But instead the person next to him.

"Doll."

That single word hung in the air, causing the air in his lungs to freeze. Slowly he turned his head to look down at Kagome, who's eyes were flashing darkly as a sinister smile curved her pink lips.

"Karlheinz."

The way she spoke his father's name made Ayato feel chilled to his core. He was darting a glance around at his brothers and the Mukami's. The latter was looking with reverence at his father. Held tension in their bodies visible. It was painfully clear that his doll and father knew each other. And fairly well with a considerable side of dislike in Kagome's taste.

"I never expected to see you again. Let alone in my house with my sons."

"Agreed."

The way his father's eyes narrowed slightly at the blatant disrespect in her tone of voice. As he felt Kagome squeeze his arm as she kept her gaze pinned to his fathers. It was like watching something so horrifying you wanted to run away but couldn't.

"So, attached to Ayato. Could do better, but worse at the same time, Doll."

"I disagree you ass."

He felt numb. His father had complimented and insulted him in the same sentence. It pleased him and infuriated him at the same time. But to hear Kagome sound polite, sweet, and outright insulting his father. A very powerful man, who one didn't cross. He feared that she would be killed.

The darkening of his father's yellow eyes as he glared at her, only to have her chuckle softly at his reaction. Made the situation tenser. Subtly he squeezed her hip, only to have her look up at him — blue eyes void of emotions as she quirked an eyebrow.

"I see you have not broken in your possession. Pathetic. The Doll is a tool meant to be used. A weapon of great power, and you let her act out like some untrained animal."

The words were not lost on him. He knew from what Reiji had shared she had a slightly bloody past. The past that should have disturbed him but didn't. If anything, it excited him, because she was wild. So in a rare show of will, Ayato looked his father dead on as he spoke.

"I like her the way she is. I find that if it is too obedient, then there is no fun. A challenge is always a welcome thing."

A soft feminine chuckle from his side filled the silence as his father shot him a skeptical glare. Which didn't bother him? Cocking his head to the side as he smiled tauntingly. Knowing that his brothers and the Mukami's were suspicious about the exchange.

"I see. Mayhaps you do take after me a little."

The snort that came from Kagome had him laughing as he curled his lip disdainfully.

"Again, I disagree with you, Karlheinz. He is a lot better than you. By the way, how is that experiment going for you? Any luck with favorable results? If I remember, Socrates told you not to expect too much. There is a natural order to things, and you can't change it."

He watched his father like everyone else present did. They all knew of the Adam and Eve project. That was to create a new race of demons. He had only taken wives to give birth to sons to do this. Creating the Mukami's to help further this plan along. And after Yui surviving the first awakening, progressing nicely to the second. It looked like it would work.

Ayato wanted to be the one chosen after she fully awakened as the chosen Bride, Eve. But now he found he could not care. The way his father was balefully staring at Kagome, he felt that what she was saying held truth, a truth his father didn't want to hear. Though he couldn't figure out what that truth was.

"That is yet to be seen, Miko out of Time. But since you have come into the possession of my son, you can watch and see if it will bear fruit very shortly. Pity, though, my son is also incapable of making you feel wanted."

The slight stiffening of her body against his at his last words. Had Ayato curious. There was a lot of mystery still surrounding his Doll. And he knew she felt a lot of things. It came with being autonomous, or at least he thought she did.

"That is neither here or there. Since you are the bastard you are, made it so that there was a barrier restricting the capabilities of all the males here. Backfired much with how you did things, starting with your wives. Though I didn't much care for Cordelia. Spoiled, petulant chit that she was. The only thing you and her did right was given birth to three amazing boys. One of whom I can say I am proud to call my owner."

Feeling like an outsider as he watched the veiled banter back and forth. Knowing he was missing something, Ayato felt anger building. Giving rise to his jealous nature, he didn't deny. His Doll should only be focused on him, not goading his father into a violent rage, even if it was amusing.

"Well, I will take that compliment for what it is. I wonder if you will ever be freed from your curse. If you will ever find your place in time, Miko. Remember, I am fully aware of your past. You caused a ripple that day a little over five hundred years ago. A small girl already displaced by time. Guardian to one of histories most powerful things. Now nothing more than a Doll, a tool to be passed from owner to owner. Never knowing peace. Never truly wanted."

Ayato glanced down at Kagome, who was practically vibrating in place. Ayato wondered what his father meant. Reiji had read the whole damned journal. Had sat down with him, Kagome and everyone else, and spent hours grilling her for facts and information. The first journal entry was her second owner. They all knew she had not told them everything that she was unable to explain it all.

He could feel her go through so many different emotions as she pressed herself against him. The feel of her hand on his low back, curling into his shirt, told Ayato that his father had hurt her.

"What exactly is the reason for your visit, father."

It was Reiji who spoke up, drawing attention away from him and Kagome. The way his lips curled further up into a smile, though there was nothing in it or behind it.

"I had heard a rather interesting rumor is all. And received the reports from the school for all of you. I was only confirming what the rumors had said when I read her name. Still, even after checking into how 'The Doll' came to be in this house. It interested me. But as nothing is happening at the moment, I think I will leave."

It was like a collective breath was taken as he turned to leave. He was only stopping to look back, a cold look in those eyes of his.

"Though I do approve if you decide."

Then he was gone as if he had not been there. The door shut as if it hadn't just been open. Once, he was able to move his body after the suffocating aura that came with his father. Ayato spun Kagome around to look down at her. His green eyes were blazing. The way she averted her eyes downwards as she huffed, he knew that she would do as just silently requested. And that was explain everything that just happened and what his father had meant by his approval.

Kagome was in a small state of shock. She knew that that the aura all ten males exuded was familiar. But she had not paid attention to why. Then again, the talk of Yui, their sacrificial bride, being Eve had not registered. Of course, this should have been instantly questioned. Instead, she had become complacent.

There before her was a man she had hoped never to see again. A manipulative man with the same if not more power than Sesshomaru. Though not near enough of the Western Lord's dignity, cool charm, and well, sadistic nature. No, Karlheinz had met her well after she had become known as The Doll.

So as she stood there next to Ayato. She was exchanging pleasant barbs with the man as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Knowing he could mess up everything if he chose. Kagome felt fear curling in the pit of her stomach. This was a man she could not kill. The powers she would need; he was well aware of were sealed. And it showed in his arrogant manner, that was very similar to Ayato's.

When the man gave his reason for being here after Reiji had asked, strained but politely, she couldn't help the noise she had made before taking a low jab at his pride. The Gods didn't like things being messed with, but nor did they directly intervene anymore. No, that would technically be her job if she hadn't been cursed. She knew that it was dangerous ground to be treading.

So when Karlheinz decided to leave instead of continuing the farce of a conversation. Kagome felt that fear turn to dread because that would mean she was being left alone again with several very dangerous males. Who she was sure wanted answers.

But true to his manipulative nature, Kagome had her breath ripped from her lungs as her heart stuttered at his parting words. The man never gave anything without getting something in return. So she wanted to believe that he was showing kindness, for there were many implications.

The moment the door swung shut, Kagome found herself being spun to face Ayato. Lowering her eyes after seeing the look in their green depths, she knew she was caught and unable to escape this one. Already she could feel the others, and Yui enclosed her in a circle. Peeking up sheepishly, she gave a soft chuckle of embarrassment.

"So... about knowing your dad... long story..."

The look she got made her want to shrink and vanish. While her toes curled and anticipation began to build in her stomach. Yeah, a long night to come.

Tsukinami's Intrusion

After learning pretty much all of her past. Most of which was pretty fucking unbelievable. The things she couldn't speak of left alone. Because when she tried to prove a point, she collapsed on the ground. She was being strangled painfully by the curse. Her body was arching deliciously as her nails dug into the hardwood floors, screaming silently as tears fell from her eyes. It had been beautiful in his eyes. As well as everyone but Yui.

Life had slowly gotten back into the routine. Though he noted that his brothers and Mukami's treated her a bit differently. Which while no outward emotions showed, he knew hurt her. Something she had openly confessed to him. She was not just a weapon, but the very thing that could kill them with a touch. A thing demons of all kind sought to destroy.

With her age, he knew she was powerful. The fact she was immortal and unable to be killed was horrifying. He had withdrawn from her, refused her his touch, presence, and anything else he could. But something in him demanded he goes back to her, which he attributed to the binding he had done to her based on the curse.

Ayato didn't like being lied to. He didn't like things, important things, being kept from him. Did he miss her being near him? Yes. Did he want to taste her blood? Yes. Did he want her body curled next to his in his bed again? Yes. But still, he couldn't bring himself to allow it. The trust that had been built was utterly destroyed. And he did blame some of it on his dick of an old man.

So as he stood there, poised, ready to battle. Ayato felt an unnatural cold settle over him as the elder of the Tsukinami's spoke. He was asking Kagome why she hadn't killed Ayato and the others yet. While he could see that she was confused, he knew she was capable of it, but what did this imperious ass have to do with her.

Remaining quiet and waving a hand to the others present who guarded Yui, to do the same. He waited. It felt like the missing piece to the puzzle had been found.

"You are known throughout history for slaughtering your Masters if they are sadistic forceful men. So, Doll, I ask you again. Why is your owner still alive as well as all his ilk."

A low, creepy laugh, reminiscent of Kanato reverberated through the garden, carrying easily on the wind that was blowing. Kagome was hugging herself as she doubled over with that unnatural laughter, which didn't amuse one Carla Tsukinami or his brother Shin.

"Oh.. that is rich. You did some research. But history is never complete, you moronic male. Yes, I have killed my prior owners, but that was because they crossed a line that should not be crossed. Some had taken small children, male and female. Beat them, raped them, and slaughtered them for fun. Death slow and painful was the best method. As for the others, well, if you had researched hard enough, you'd know that I am autonomous. Hava a will of my own. And do not tolerate those who would force themselves upon my person. So a quick bloody death, bathing me in crimson. It was amazing, euphoric."

As she trailed off, Ayato couldn't help but think she was perfection personified. The fact she seemed to be a bit crazed as she ranted, explaining things clearly. The wild look in her blue eyes as the shone brightly under the full moonlight made him want her even more.

The curl of her pink, bow-shaped lips in a savage smile painted on her lips as she stared defiantly at the duo. Who seemed to look mortified when it clicked in Ayato's head why they would be so.

"So, I take it you procured her and had her shipped to our residency. How amiable of you. But it looks like your plan failed."

He was looking towards Shu, who was the one who spoke. Ayato couldn't help but chuckle. It was not often that he spoke up. But when he did, he did it in such a manner. Shrugging his shoulders to loosen them up, Ayato stepped forward, coming to stand beside Kagome. Who he noticed, even under her calm veneer, was nervous at his closeness. As if afraid of him retaliating against her for what was going on right now.

He would have to talk with her later after a long session of punishment. Right now, at this moment, it was time to put words away and fight. Giving a smug grin as he cracked his knuckles, on the one hand, the other raising the sword. He spoke softly to his Doll.

"Fight without restraint and to your heart's content. I want these assholes dead, Kagome. Make sure you do it thoroughly."

With that, he surged forward as she gasped at him. That manic light in her eyes, burning brighter. The battle had begun.

She hurt on a deep level after being grilled weeks earlier and having to clear the proverbial air. Everyone distanced themselves from her. This was to be expected; she destroyed the trust that had been built. Kagome knew that she couldn't hide it anymore, that she was what they all feared most. On top of everything else that dealt with that adventurous time in her life.

When she had been pressed to speak about certain things, they found out what happened to her — the disinterested looks as she writhed in pain on the floor. Well, except for Ayato and Laito. Both looked like something else was going on in their heads. From there, things had just... settled like sediment at the bottom of a river. A semblance of a routine returning while she was ostrich-sized.

Now she stood with the others in the garden, having a staredown with two new Vampires. Purebloods from the feel of their aura. IT was when the taller and more mature of the two spoke that she felt confused. His implied meaning, not going amiss. Only for her to feel as if something in her had come unhinged as she laughed.

Everything that had happened finally boiling over and making her sound like some psychopathic lunatic. That was fine with her as she cut the bastard down to size. It was utterly hilarious that he would do research, but not an in-depth analysis. Then expect her to kill Ayato and his brethren. The plan had not the consistency of a parboiled egg. It was running all over the place.

Finally, reigning in her hysterics, Kagome didn't have to look to know that all eyes were trained on her and her announcement. So when Shu spoke up, voicing what she had not, she bared her teeth in dark delight. The Tsukinami's reactions were making her giddy.

The moment Ayato stepped up beside her and spoke. Kagome felt the words unlock something deep in her as he surged forward. Sword being raised for battle. With a gleeful cackle, she pushed forward. This would be one battle she would enjoy. Whether she was ever accepted by them again, she would protect them with everything she was. And no one would ever take Yui away from her. She adored that girl to death and back again.

Ten years later

"No."

"Yes."

"No."

"Yes!"

"No, and that is final."

Silence ensued before a pair of blue eyes narrowed, and a small dark smile curved pink lips.

"Why?"

"I said so."

"But why?"

"Woman, do not push this."

Again silence filled the air in the room before the sound of a low chuckle broke it as the girl spoke again.

"Why, Lord Fluffy? I wanna pet it."

Disgruntled amber eyes narrowed as an elegantly shaped brow twitched visibly. The cold look that was shot at the person or rather person's chuckling at the whole situation didn't stop them. It only made the duo, one of who was an older version of the young girl, break out into unrestrained mirthful laughter.

"It is inappropriate for you to... pet it."

"Why?"

"Woman, it just is. Stop asking."

"No."

"Yes."

"No."

"Yes."

A calculating look entered those golden eyes as the man stared down into the determined blue eyes of the raven-haired girl. Deciding to do reverse psychology on the child.

"Yes."

"Okay!"

In the next instant, said girl surged forward and grabbed a fist full of the man's white, fluffy moko-moko. She was rubbing it against her cheek, sighing in utter contentment. As the tall, white-haired man just looked down at her in absolute horror at what she was doing, while not giving in to the urge to pick her up and bring her eye level.

"She got one on you, Sesshomaru. Rin is very... smart..."

"I see that, Miko. It is just... inappropriate for her to be doing that to me. As you well know. More-so since she is not of age."

The room fell into silence as the girl stopped her nuzzling of said furry boa. She was looking up with wide eyes at the tall Inu Youkai. Who suddenly seemed much paler as he refused to look down at her. Realizing he just did something foolish.

"Lord Fluffy, what does of age mean? Why is this...inappropriate?"

The questions were fired off in quick succession as Sesshomaru looked stressed. Before, a soft sigh came from the couch as the older version of the girl attempted to sit up. Her large stomach was making her roll as her husband grabbed her. He is pulling her back before he stood up gracefully. Walking to his daughter, who was still clinging to the Taiyokai's moko-moko.

"Rin."

At him speaking her name in a commanding tone. The girl let the object of her affection drop as she appeared before him. She was looking up with large eyes that held her love and adoration.

"You need to respect his space and body. That is rude. No, go play with your brother and cousins."

"Yes, dad."

In the next instant, she was gone from the room. She was leaving the three adults there — all visibly relaxing. Disaster temporarily avoided. At least until the pregnant woman on the couch gasped.

"Fuck! Laito is watching the boys."

A loud groan filled the room as all three realized that he would have no problem answering the question they just distracted the six-year-old girl from.

"This is your fault Ayato!"

"Indeed."

At the finger-pointing from the other two, said male just smiled and shrugged. He was not caring a whit about it. He knew his daughter would find out sooner or later. And due to some stroke of messed up fate, she was the life mate of the ancient yokai currently visiting them.

THE END!