Title: Tides Against Time

Rating: M (Language, Violence, and Adult Content)

Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or the Little Mermaid. All rights should go to Inuyasha Inc. Disney and Hans Christian Anderson.

Music: The song I have selected for this chapter is: "Summer Ocean: Tim Janis" and "Arabian Music / City by the Sea / Ambient Arabian Desert Music." I love to listen to music on YouTube while I read to add to the atmosphere. You are welcome to listen along with my music selection if you want. It is not required. When you see these marks (***) that means to begin to play the selected song. When you see (xxx) this means to stop playing the music. It is important to pay attention to these marking as there is more than one song for this chapter. I do not have credit for these recordings or channels but I think it adds to the story.

Warning: Lemon later in chapter. Please advise by rating standards.

Tides Against Time: Matting grounds

(*** Summer Ocean: Tim Janis ***)

When they arrived at the mating grounds Inuyasha immediately noticed the increased temperature of the water and guessed that they were swimming over some type of volcanic system. However it lacked the pungent sulfuric smell normally associated to them. The smooth sandy sea floor became black and riddled with large caverns. Warm bubbles leaked out from cracks in the rocks bring nutrients into the water from deep underground. The warm water heated by the rocks and sun above created a vibrant display of sea life. Everywhere you looked was an explosion of colorful coral life against the dark volcanic sea floor. Fish of all shapes, colors and sizes swam amongst the vegetation making the coral reef shimmer and dance. No signs of decay or sickness could be seen and all stages of life were present. It was evident by the care and attention the water creatures showed towards the grounds that they acknowledge Mother Nature's blessing upon it and made sure to keep it holy. As they swam closer to the caverns Inuyasha watched as Kikyo plucked some orange seed pods from one of the flowering coral beds.

"What are you doing?" asked Inuyasha curiously.

"I'm bringing an offering to the gods. These coral pods are the offspring of this coral plant. By planting them it represents not only the continuation of new life for the plant but also in hopes of bring new life into our womb." Kikyo said as she grabbed his hand and placed it over her lower stomach.

"Our womb huh?" Inuyasha gulped with a blush to his cheeks and gently caressed her stomach with his palm.

"Hm." Kikyo hummed in agreement with a tender smile.

"Is there anything I should bring to the gods?" asked Inuyasha.

"You can collect some fertilized sand to plant it in. It will represent you becoming one with me." Kikyo said as she took hold of his hand and led him down to the sea floor. "Here, this should do nicely. See how dark the soil is? It's full of nutrients and would make a great starter for these pods."

"How much do I need to bring?" asked Inuyasha as he dug his hands into the rich sandy soil and clutched it protectively against his chest.

"Only a couple hands full should do. While I dig the hole for the pods you can swim back and grab more. Now lets go find a cavern where we can plant our offering and nest in." Kikyo said as she looked around for the perfect spot.

"What kind of a cavern are we looking for?" asked Inuyasha as he followed after her.

"We need to find one that will hold the heat inside and doesn't have a lot of drag from the current. If we want our pods to grow we don't want them to wash away hours later." Kikyo said as they began to swim around the grounds looking for the perfect spot.

"What about that cavern over there?" asked Inuyasha as he pointed to a cavern to their left. It was covered with years of thick coral and vegetation.

"No, that one is too crowded. For our pods to grow healthy they need to start off somewhere they don't have to battle for nutrients." Kikyo said as they continued to swim.

"What about that one?" asked Inuyasha pointing to a cavern up ahead. It was lower than the other caverns, was covered on the top half with vegetation but nothing grew towards its base.

"No, that one is too low. See how it is too dark at the base of the rocks for plant life to grow? Our pods will need some sunlight to grow healthy.

"Damn! Who knew making a pup would be so hard!" Inuyasha whined making Kikyo laugh.

"Patience love. We'll find the right one." Kikyo teased.

"I know… I guess I'm just excited is all." Inuyasha grumbled as he brought her close to his chest and pecked her lips tenderly.

"Me too." Kikyo said then kissed the tip of his nose making him smirk. "Come on, let's keep looking."

About 20 minuets later Inuyasha came across the perfect cavern. It was towards the center of the grounds were the rip of the current didn't pull as strong. It was slightly elevated to allow sunlight to reach the base but not too high to have the soil wash away. The vegetation wasn't too thick to suffocate the pod's fragile roots, was open inside, but cozy enough to keep them comfortable. The water temperature and sand were warm to the touch but not overbearingly hot making it perfect for he and Kikyo to nest in. The inside walls were smooth so not to catch on their tails as they moved about inside. The cavern was wide enough to allow them flexibility incase they needed to escape unexpected danger. His favorite part of the cavern was the shape of the entrance. It mouth was turned down making it almost invisible to the naked eye from the outside. If Inuyasha hadn't of been swimming close by he would have missed it. It was perfect for them to nest in safely.

"Hey Kikyo! Come take a look at this one." Inuyasha called out.

"Oh Enu! It's perfect!" Kikyo squealed happily as she inspected the cavern. "I think over here would be a perfect spot to plant our pods. While I'm digging why don't you place that soil here and go and get some more."

"Alright, I'll be right back. Don't go anywhere!" Inuyasha said kissing her forehead and then swimming back out of the cavern.

While he was gone Kikyo cleared a space for her to plant their pods. All stray shells, rocks and debris were picked out of the sand before she placed Inuyasha's soil into the open space. By the time she was ready to place the pods inside the hole she had dug, Inuyasha returned with another large hand full of soil.

"Here, place it right on top of the pods." Kikyo motioned as she settled the offering snuggly into the rich blanket of soil.

"Want me to go get some more?" asked Inuyasha as he cleared his hands of the sand.

"No, this should be enough. Let me finish packing it down before we pray over it." Kikyo said as she tucked the soil around the pods then covered them over with the remaining soil. "There, that should do it. Now, we just have to pray the gods will accept our offering and allow us to bring new life into the world."

"I'm sure they will love it. You were very intentional towards your offering. It was like watching you mother your own pup." Inuyasha said as he came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waste as he nuzzled into her neck.

"You too Enu. This cavern is a perfect home for our little pods. With your fertilized soil, the sunlight and this cozy cavern I'm sure one of these pods will grow into a beautiful coral plant." Kikyo said as she craned her neck to allow him better access.

"Well then we better pray before I ruin our efforts." Inuyasha teased as he leaned his swelling tail into her backside making her gasp.

"A-alright, Enu." Kikyo mewled as she reluctantly pulled away from him to ready herself to pray. "Come here and place your hands on either side of the plant with me."

"Like this?" Inuyasha asked as he readied himself across from her and placed his hands over top of hers.

"Yes, now say a prayer in your head to the gods. Ask anything you want, just make sure its from your heart and that it includes the offering." Kikyo said as she threaded her fingers with his, closed her eyes and bowed her head.

When they were finished saying their prayers Inuyasha gingerly pulled Kikyo into the cavern and lovingly took hold of her in his arms.

"I can't believe we're really doing this." Inuyasha said just above a whisper as he began kissing tenderly along her jawline.

"What makes you say that?" Kikyo asked curiously as she threaded her fingers into his hair at the nape of his neck and closed her eyes.

"Just a week ago I was betrothed to a girl I had no affections for and now, now I'm mated to the love my life and am about to start a family with her." Inuyasha said as he tightened his hold around her.

"I love you too Enuyasa. I thank the gods everyday that we met on that beach. You have sacrificed so much to be with me already and I can't imagine my life without you. I am honored to be your mate and I am excited to bare your young in my womb." Kikyo said as she brushed her hand along his cheek.

"Only you Kikyo. My heart, body and soul burn for only you. I promise here you and now to be the best mate and father to our family as possible. Let the gods make it so." Inuyasha vowed before claiming her lips in a kiss.

[Warning: Lemon begin; ending marked]

Carefully cradling her to him, Inuyasha began to gingerly lower them to the sandy floor. Placing her in the center of the cavern floor, Inuyasha laced his arms behind her and through the rocking motion of their bodies an indentation marked itself into the black sand for them to rest in. Feeling the indentation was to his satisfaction he untied the seashells covering her breasts and pulled them away from her form. Already puckered and aching for attention he eagerly kneaded them in his large hands. Through all of this, their kisses were deep and passionate. Her fingers were threaded in his hair and along his flesh, leaving tingling trails in their wake. As they continued to shower each other in each other's love, the warm water and sand bellow them slowly soaked through Kikyo's flesh, awakening her womb for new life. It made her tingle and ache with need stirring her to become more demanding and vocal for his Kikyo's heat continued to build so did Inuyasha's need to fulfill it.

With the friction of the heated sand against their sensitive flesh, the temperature in the cavern quickly built to nearly unbearable. If they had been mating upon the land, sweat would have been glistening along their heated bodies and their passionate musk would have coated the air around them. Soon the need became too much and he quickly thrusted his swollen cock into her awaiting channel. Their cries of bliss and demanding passion filled the cavern around them. As their bodies thrummed with satisfaction the dark sand around the pods they had planted began to glow and thrum along with their energy. Slowly the plant began to take root and soak into the cavern floor around them. Then a soft magical glow began weaving its way towards the mating pair. As Inuyasha and Kikyo grew closer to completion the thrumming glow began to circle around them. It moved perfectly in sync with their every cry and motion. When it came time for the magic to take form it began to concentrate its energy beneath them. It condensed into smaller and smaller rings around them as they grew closer to completion.

[End Lemon]

When Inuyasha at last filled Kikyo's womb with his hot fertilizing seed, the glow thrummed one last time and soaked up into Kikyo's lower back, blending itself with their union. With the force of their mating and the pull of magic around them they quickly succumbed to their exhaustion, never once separating their flesh. However upon awakening Kikyo's heat remained, so they stayed in their cavern for two more days until at last her heat vanished. Each time they had mated the cavern glowed and thrummed along with their bodies and soaked up into her flesh to join with their union. When the mated couple noticed a small stem begin to pock out of the sand and Inuyasha could smell new life growing in Kikyo's womb, great joy was felt. Upon returning to the cove the entire Kingdom rejoiced. It was just what they needed in their time of grieving. Unbeknownst to the mated couple so much more was yet to come. For with the offering and loving vow, the gods saw fit to grant their heartfelt prayers. But only tides against time would reveal this to them. For all good things come to those who wait.

(xxx stop music xxx)

[Tashio Castle]

It was just after sunset when Sesshomaru returned to his chambers and made his way down to the lagoon. Pulling his swords from around his waist he relaxed into the patio furniture to await his brother. Not ten minutes later small bubbles trailed their way from the drain along the wall and gathered near the beach at his feet. A silver haired merman with web-like fish ears pocked his head out of the murky water and looked up at him with familiar golden eyes.

"Sorry I'm late. I had trouble convincing Kikyo to stay behind." Inuyasha said as he pulled himself out of the water and sat on a rock. His muscular white tail speckled with gold, red and black scales curved into the rock to help keep his balance.

"And why little brother would you keep my sister-in-law from coming to visit me?" Sesshomaru asked with a frown.

"It wasn't just me who wanted her to stay Sesshomaru. Her father and our people want her to be safe too." Inuyasha said as he rung the water from his silver mane.

"She has traveled here before. Is her father still holding grudges for when she and…. when she came before." Sesshomaru said as he looked away to try and hide the pain filling his eyes. Inuyasha flinched when he saw.

"Nah, its nothing like that." Inuyasha said gently knowing what his brother meant. "It's just…"

"Shit how do I tell him?!" Inuyasha screamed in his head. He knew this was going to hurt him.

"It's just what Inuyasha?" Sesshomaru questioned with a scowl. He could smell the uneasiness in his brother's aura and knew Inuyasha was hiding something from him.

"She's… (sigh) Kikyo's… Kikyo's with pup." Inuyasha said uneasily as he looked down at his hands.

Sesshomaru's questioning eyes widened and felt all the air rush from his lung. It was as if his brother's words had punched him in the gut while a knife was imbedded into his heart. A cold wash of emotions poured over his system and none of them were what he should have felt in that moment. There was jealousy, anger, sadness, longing, and envy to name a few. However, he quickly pulled them back in. This was a time for celebration and his brother and sister-in-law deserved this happy moment. Inuyasha shouldn't looked ashamed and grief stricken.

"I see. It is understandable why she remained. How long have you known?" Sesshomaru asked as he tried to ease the tension.

"Just this morning. She went into heat three days ago so we decided to try." Inuyasha said as he rubbed the back of his neck nervously. "I know it's not the best timing but the Kingdom was ecstatic when they heard Kikyo was pupped. They were still partying when I left actually. I think… it's helping them heal in a way you know? But just so you know it was not my intension to rub it in your face or anything. This isn't an easy time for you right now but you deserve to know."

"No it is not the best timing but I cannot hold fate against you. This one is glad you have found your happiness and wishes his congratulations regardless. I will be sure to relay the good news to everyone come tomorrow. Do not worry little brother for all of Spain will celebrate the news of your pup."

"Thanks. Your approval is the only one I really care about anyway." Inuyasha said as he lightly punched Sesshomaru in the shoulder making him smirk.

"Hn, indeed." Sesshomaru teased back. "So when am I to meet your pup?"

"Kikyo said mermaids normally harbor for 7 to 8 months. That makes her due around mid October. However, we are migrating to our southern feeding grounds towards the first of August. I guess most of the food we eat doesn't last up here in the cold so we have to follow it south. You unfortunately wont meet our pup till next February." Inuyasha informed.

"Interesting." Sesshomaru said in a curious tone. "How far south do you go? Now that we know your "folk" are in existence, the life of a mermaid will forever spark my curiosity."

"Keh! Ain't that the truth! If someone had told me a year ago that I would have met a mermaid let alone turned into one I would have sent them to a psych ward." Inuyasha chuckled. "But to answer your question we will be traveling along the western coast of Africa until we reach just south of the Congo. To the exact spot I'm not sure but after this trip I'll be sure to fill you in."

"Good. It will be interesting to see how far our bonding call will work. Speaking of alliances, as first I am curious in how you are settling in. Has the Water Kingdom caused you any problems since becoming King?" asked Sesshomaru as he sat back into his chair.

"Oh yeah! I almost forgot about our bond. We will have to try it out sometime later, but so far so good. However, my tribal representatives think there will be a rebellion soon. Someone has to test the waters eventually I guess. Poseidon is helping me prepare as best we can until then. What about here? Now that the Duke is gone has the Court pushed you towards a new contract or any threats from our neighbors?" asked Inuyasha curiously.

"Unfortunately yes. The court has already received over a dozen marriage proposals and a threat was issued this afternoon from Rome. They want to cut off our trading routs from central Europe along with our neighboring waters. If this happens we will go bankrupt in five years. We have looked into their threat and have unfortunately found that they already have ownership of most of the major ports along the Mediterranean coast and have paid their way through the inland trading. Being that Italy is the richest country in Europe at the moment they now have power in most of its eastern countries. They have taken over their debts and have flooded their towns with their religious beliefs. We not only have a threat from Italy but also their allies and their idols. To avoid war Rome has propositioned the Baron of Naples daughter in exchange for peace." Sesshomaru said in frustration.

"Shit! What has the Court suggested?" asked Inuyasha with wide eyes.

"Some want me to agree. Our country needs an heir, Italy has offered an eligible female and they are in favor of gaining a strong ally with larger trading opportunities." Sesshomaru said with a scowl.

"True… but it seems too easy. There's got to be something else we ain't seein." Inuyasha said while he tapped his chin in thought.

"That is what the remainder of the court and I have felt as well. Currently we have not made an unanimous decision and I will fight against it to the very end. You witness me making a promise. I intend to wait for her little brother and I will not go back on my vow. If the court sees that I am to take this female from Naples then I will simply wed her, not bed. They will be in for a long ride for an heir because my beast and I will not touch her." Sesshomaru growled.

"But Sesshomaru… what if, what if she doesn't come back? What if she doesn't return until your next life?" asked Inuyasha gently.

"Then we will deal with that when it comes. I know this female doesn't deserve to be ignored but being a demonness she should know coming into this arrangement that when an Inu chooses a mate he will have no other. If this goes through I will be sure to explain what our "union" should in tale before hand. I will not be blamed for mistreatment or seen as a heartless bastard should she complain. I will not hold her hostage by any means so if she chooses to find her own pleasure from someone else so be it. It will just not come from I." Sesshomaru said.

"So are you saying that your line of the Tashio will fall should she not return?" asked Inuyasha in disbelief.

"I am." said Sesshomaru with finality.

"Damn…" Inuyasha said as he ran his fingers through his silver locks anxiously. "Have you thought about who you want to ask to be your heir just in case?"

"I have been looking into it and have a possible candidate. Our cousin Shiori mated last fall and is expecting her first pup this summer. If their child is a son he will be my first choice as heir. Should the pup be a female then their first son down the line will be heir. I have already sent word to her and her mate. Their reply should arrive sometime next week. If they decline I will then go down our family line until I find a solution."

"That's it? That's your solution? Not an actual living heir?" asked Inuyasha in disbelief.

"We do not have any current heirs living." Sesshomaru said sternly. "You were my heir until four days ago and had there of been another I would have said so."

"Yeah… I know. I just wanted to double check to make sure you were positive in your decision. I'm sure Father would understand." Inuyasha said as he clapped his brother on the shoulder lightly.

"Perhaps, but it matters not. This one has made his choice." Sesshomaru said.

"Well, I will support you in whatever you decide. Anyways, I better start heading back. Most of the remaining tribes are leaving to return to their homes in the morning. I've got to make sure no one takes more than their share of travel supplies with them." Inuyasha said as he began to slip back into the water.

"Very well." Sesshomaru said as he continued to relax in his chair.

"I'll swing by sometime next week. If you need me or just want to talk, just call k?" Inuyasha said before waving goodbye and sinking into the murky waters.

After Inuyasha left, Sesshomaru remained out on his patio to watch the sunrise in the distant horizon. Acknowledging the inevitable he eventually returned to his chambers and began another long day as Lord of Spain. As most things go, time flew by and soon days turned into weeks and weeks turned into months. The waters in the Balearic Sea began to cool and its fish began to stir. It was at last time for the Royal tribe to begin preparing for their long journey south and for the Artic tribe to strike. At the same time the court of Spain had reached its decision and it's Lord continued to wait for his lost love to return.

[Gulf of Aqaba]

(*** Arabian Music / City by the Sea / Ambient Arabian Desert Music ***)

It had taken Bankotsu and his traveling companions nearly two months to return home. By now it was early July and many of the newly mated females were beginning to swell with their growing young. His stomach fluttered with excitement in seeing his spawn but also anxiety in being reunited with his father. He knew the elders would not be happy with him failing to bring the crown back to their tribe. However, his travel companions were willing to stand by his side should they doubt his worth. For that he was eternal grateful and vowed to protect them in the future should needed. As they swam through the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba they made their way to its eastern shore. There along its desert coastline the silhouette of a sunken city carved from stone began to appear out of the depths. Its tall pillars and towering chambers were covered with century's worth of algae and coral life. Fish and young newts could be seen weaving and playing in safety about its courts and pillars.

Along its strong walls and entryways, the Astarte Navy proudly guarded the fortress. They were decorated with all forms of weaponry and armor and displayed the city's power, strength and wealth upon their shoulders. It was the city Aljabbar, the "mighty," and he was proud to call it home. As they grew closer to its walls the sounds of underwater shell horns could be heard announcing their long awaited arrival. When they swam through its mighty gates their kin immediately surrounded them in a welcoming embrace. Bankotsu having successfully slipped out of the crowd made his way towards his abode. Just as he was about to enter the family courtyard a youthful voice called from inside.

"Alab!" shouted a newt nearly 5 autumns old.

Hearing the familiar call Bankotsu quickly turned towards the voice. He had just enough time to open his arms before the boy crashed into his chest at full speed. The impact knocked his breath out of his lungs. When he looked into his son's face he immediately noticed the giant smile that was spread from ear to ear and the happy twinkle in his large brown eyes.

"Kokichi my boy!" Bankotsu laughed happily as he held him tight in his arms. "Wow! You have gotten big! Were you good for your 'Um?"

"Oh yes Alab! I iz good. I pwamis! I only gots in twuble free times!" Kokichi said as he held up five fingers.

"Oh really?" Bankotsu chuckled as he ruffled the boy's hair.

Just then another burst of youthful calling reached his ears and 6 other newts quickly made their way towards him.

"Alab! Alab! Alab!" they cheered as they swam about him and hugged where they could reach.

As he looked about he took note of who had welcomed him home. There were his sons, Kisuke (7 years), Kokichi (5 years) Koryu and Michiru (twins - 4 years) and his daughters Chiyo (10 years), Abi (8 years), and Enju (3 years). As he mentally took count in his head he noticed two were missing. When he was about to ask where they were a sultry voice greeted his ears.

"Easy on your Alab darlings. I'm sure he is tired after his long journey home."

When he looked up a goddess with seductive curves greeted his eyes. Her tail was a dark green color that was speckled with golden scales. Her skin was a warm honey gold and her breasts were full and round. The golden shells she wore barely held them in and he knew hidden from his sight were perfectly taught brown nipples begging to be devoured. Her face was a slim oval shape that had strong high cheekbones. Curly black hair crowned her head and reached long past her slender waist. Golden bangles adorned her wrists and golden jewels pierced her ears, nose and bellybutton. However his favorite parts about her were her pump black lips and her piercing ruby eyes. Everything about her was pure seduction. She was the nymph who called to him in his dreams. Who knew how to please him and satisfy his every need. She was his passion, his fire, his deepest desire. She was his…

"Vixen" Bankostu said huskily as he pealed off his spawn and made his way towards her.

As soon as he had her in his arms he pulled her flush up against him so she could fell his want for her.

"Damn I've missed you woman." Bankostu said as he slid one hand down her spine to rest over her curvaceous backside.

"I can tell…" she said silkily as she leaned into his swelling tail while wrapping her arms around his neck.

This made her large chest rub up against his making him hiss in wan-tonic torture. Lacing his fingers into her lush black curls he bore his gaze upon her lips and quickly took hold of them into a heated kiss. She tasted like pure ecstasy; sweet with a spicy kick at the end. It was just how he liked it, how he remembered it. She tasted like… home.

"Ewwww! Alab's kissing 'Um!" Koryu said as he hid his eyes behind his tiny hands.

"They're just kissing Koryu! It's not like their mating!" Chiyo corrected as she rolled her eyes at her little brother and crossed her arms over her sprouting chest.

"They could just hug like normal Merfolk do when they are reunited!" argued Kisuke in agreement as a blush crossed his sun kissed cheeks.

"Alright, alright. Calm down." Bankotsu chuckled as he reluctantly pulled back from his lover's lips. "Where is Gennosuke and Ai?"

"Gennosuke should still be at sparing lessons with your brothers and Ai is napping in the den." Vixen said as she twisted a loose curl at the base of his neck around her finger.

Turning her attention to her spawn she then said, "Now you all go play in the courts. Your father needs to speak with the Sultan about his trip. Be back at the den before dark."

"Yes 'Um!" the young newts called before swimming off to go play.

As soon as their spawn were out of sight Bankotsu rushed Vixen up against the nearest wall and picked up right were they had left off.

"Your late." Vixen scolded between kisses.

"Botan… isn't… handeling…. harboring…. very well." Bankotsu tried to say as he trailed his kisses down her neck and slipped her excuse of a bra off her breasts and firmly kneaded one in the palm of his hand. "We also… swam through… a typhoon."

"Whatever… you say… dear." Vixen countered just before a moan slipped passed her lips when Bankostu pinched her nipple between his fingers.

"Shut up woman… and kiss me." Bankostu demanded.

After that, nothing else needed to be said. Having known each other their entire lives their souls spoke what needed to be said. They were their own worst enemies who couldn't live without the other. They were best friends but were polar opposites in personalities. They were lovers that now between them stood 9 newts. They were magnetized to each other. Where one went, the other soon followed. Over the years they had lost track of how many times they had broken up and gotten back together. But no matter how hard they tried they simply couldn't exist without the other. As heir to the Arstate tribe he was held back in claiming Vixen as mate until after the mating games. Even though she had bore him his heir, with her being a concubine it was cultural unacceptable for him to claim her as first mate before a virgin.

This was the core of most of their fights over the years and it pained him in not being able to give into her wishes. However, now that he had lost the right as King of the Water Kingdom his future was unclear. What would become of them? Would his Father banish him like he had heard would happen to Ryura? Would Vixen be given away to someone else? What of his young? He knew Gennosuke would be taken care of with him being his heir, but what of his other spawn? Surly his family would take care of them… right? His heart twisted at the thought of losing them all. A possessiveness and burning need to claim what was his burned in his veins. How could he have been so foolish?! His affections soon became needy and Vixen instantly knew something was bothering him.

"Bank?... What's wrong?" Vixen asked as she stilled his hand cupping her backside and rested her forehead against his. This forced him to still his affections and look into her worried ruby eyes.

"It's nothing." Bankostu said as he tried to ignore her concern with another kiss.

"No… there's something. Don't try to hide away from me. You know better than that. Now tell me… what is it?" Vixen demanded as she threaded her fingers through his hair tenderly.

"I…." Bankotsu tried to explain.

"You what?" Vixen coxed gently.

"I… I lost." Bankotsu said just above a whispered.

(Gasp) - Vixen

[End Chapter 43]

Translation:

Alab - Father in Arabic الآب

'Um - Mother in Arabic أم

(Oh no! What's going to happen to Bankotsu and Vixen? What about Sesshomaru and the threat from Rome? We still don't know of the Ice Lord's plot or what Tsubaki's got up her sleeve. What do you think will happen next? Only time will tell! Be sure to leave your predictions! Love hearing from you all and thanks again for the support! More to come soon!)