I am terribly sorry it has taken me this long to upload. The truth is, I have had this chapter done for quite a while, and I was just waiting on my beta to put the finishing touches on it. My thanks to Laarni Samaniego once again for doing a great job with the chapter! Happy reading!
Chapter 9- Bravery
Shippou swirled the milk around in his bowl, watching it settle around the oats that floated on the surface. His breakfast had gone cold quite a while ago. He was never really a fan of oatmeal, at least the way the cooks made it. Gloppy, tasteless lumps stuck to the bottom of his bowl, mocking his grumbling stomach.
He had already exhausted his options of eating the muck currently residing in his bowl. That had occurred the moment he had taken the first bland bite. There was no way he was eating something so… so icky. Instead he resorted to dribbling spoonfuls of milk over his breakfast until it became a soggy mess.
The young fox demon glanced up at the ticking clock on the wall, watching the minute hand anxiously. Where was he?
It was a quarter past eight. Maybe he wasn't coming? A thrill of panic ran through Shippou, freezing his veins, clutching greedily to his thumping heart.
He clutched his dog discreetly under the table. If any of the other kids found out about it, Shippou was done for. New toys were a rare occurrence here, and a coveted desire by all.
A shadow fell over him, and Shippou looked up to see Hiten standing over him, a foreboding image clad in crimson and black.
"Have you packed efficiently for today's visit?" He asked tersely, his eyes flicking to the pack sitting next to Shippou.
Shippou blinked, trying his hardest not to tremble before the towering headmaster.
"Yes sir."
"I hope you have remembered to pack your school books as well. You would do well to remember that you are not exempt from completing your schoolwork simply because you fall under…exceptional circumstances." Hiten nearly spat the word out. His eyes drilled into Shippou, searching for any sign of defiance.
"No sir, I've packed all of my books."
"You will see to it that all of your schoolwork gets completed. I daresay we will be having a very unpleasant conversation otherwise, am I clear?"
Shippou nodded, his breath caught uncomfortably in his throat, making him feel hot and constricted. He knew if he tried to speak, his voice would betray the raw emotions he was feeling. Hiten would surely see that as a sign of weakness and find another way to view him in contempt.
Hiten nodded curtly before turning away, his kimono fluttering behind him. For all the modern technology the present day had to offer, Hiten preferred to keep things more traditional. The villa itself was a representation of that. The tall brick building towered over the hills it inhabited, its old fashioned windows giving it an old and haunted look.
The villa had splurged for the few modern conveniences needed to function. Electricity and plumbing were an obvious necessity. Gas stoves had been installed into the kitchen along with refrigerators and a dishwasher or two. Shippou could only assume that was how the cooks managed to wash all the dishes dirtied each day.
Regardless of the modern advances that the villa had made, Hiten still favored his traditionalist ways. This was evident in the way he dressed. Shippou had only ever seen the man dressed in elaborate kimonos.
It would make sense, considering he is several centuries old. He probably wants to hang on to the past. The young kit thought.
Shippou watched the man disappear into the throng of students and felt his heart slow from its erratic beat. He wondered if he would ever make it to that age and be able to look back on his life. Hiten was well over five hundred years old, and he didn't look over thirty.
Before he could ponder this thought further, the crowd hushed suddenly, the voices of children and staff alike faded to a low murmuring.
Shippou looked up, wondering what could be the matter. He looked up to see a silver head bobbing among the various colored mops within the crowd.
The swarm finally parted and Shippou was left staring into a pair of resolute amber eyes.
He came.
Shippou's heart soared as he took in the half demon that stood before him.
Inuyasha was dressed casually in a pair of dark wash jeans and a crisp black shirt. Shippou looked down at his new t-shirt and felt warmth swell from within.
Inuyasha stopped a few feet away from where Shippou sat, as if wary to approach.
He took a good look at the boy. Shippou sat with his shoulders hunched in close to him, as if he was trying to make himself as small as possible. Inuyasha also noted the way the boy held his bowl close to his chest as well, almost guarding it.
He's afraid. The thought slammed into Inuyasha's conscious with such force, it sent his mind reeling.
The boy's afraid of his surroundings. This environment... With so many other children around, most of them bigger than Shippou, he had to learn to protect what was his at an early age.
Demons had a naturally predatory nature, so of course even at a young age, they would fight to protect what was theirs, lashing out at anyone considered a threat.
"Are you ready Shippou?"
Inuyasha's voice was like a wave of calm washing over the kit's frayed nerves.
Shippou nodded, and hopped off the bench, his bag clutched in one hand, the dog in the other.
"Let's go then, I have someone I would like to introduce you to today."
The child nodded, scurrying after him whilst trying to avoid the blatant stares.
Why did they have to stare? It made Shippou feel so uncomfortable. As if he wasn't enough of a freak already, now he had the other kids gaping at him.
As they headed out to the car, Shippou couldn't help but feel like he was being accused of something.
His stomach seemed to agree with them on that notion; Shippou winced at the tight knots forming in his tummy.
Maybe the other kids resented him for being chosen for this 'special circumstance.'
Shippou looked up suddenly as a shadow clouded his vision.
Naraku stood before them, a towering form in a mauve colored kimono speckled with tear drops of azure.
"Good morning Mr. Takahashi. Mr. Kijutsu." Naraku bowed stiffly, his dark eyes fixed on them.
A cold dread trickled down the back of Shippou's neck. He couldn't place it but something about this man creeped him out. Maybe it was his long curtain of dark hair that looked like snakes, or his piercing eyes as black as night. Naraku's voice didn't help his reputation much either, cold and icy.
"Good morning." Inuyasha said coolly. Shippou noticed he did not return the bow.
Shippou managed a half stuttered 'g'moring' before falling silent.
"Where are you off to this morning?" Naraku spoke to Inuyasha, but his gaze rested on the fox child.
"To meet a friend." Inuyasha replied, making it clear that that was as much information as he was revealing.
"Oh, how very nice. Do enjoy yourselves, won't you?" Naraku purred.
He began to sweep past them, when suddenly he turned.
"Oh Shippou, do take care to be on your best behavior, hmm?" His onyx orbs pinned the child, rooting him to the spot in an unwavering stare.
An icy presence seeped into the kits bones, robbing him of breath. What was happening to him? The hairs on the back of his neck stood up, as the cold seemed to dive deeper and deeper, driving out all warmth until it had invaded every nook and cranny. His breath came out in great shuttering gasps. He could feelthis thing rooting around inside him, crippling him. It made him feel dirty, as if something was baring his soul, riffling though his inner most private thoughts and emotions. Just when he thought he would succumb to the cold, he felt a shift in the air.
Static crackled soundly through the silent morning.
Shippou was startled as he felt a warm presence trickle slowly into his being. He felt like someone was pouring a thick steamy liquid right into his veins. Warmth spread throughout him, driving out the cold, alien presence. Shippou's toes tingled pleasantly.
Narkau's eyes widened as his concentration was immediately broken. It was if an invisible wall had been placed between him and the fox. His gaze on Shippou immediately shifted to the man behind the child. Naraku found himself facing a pair of fiery amber eyes.
Heat blazed from Inuyasha, rolling off in waves as his youkai lashed out, clawing and snarling, howling, yearning to break free and obliterate the source of distress within the young fox demon.
Inuyasha's hands shook uncontrollably.
"Shippou," he managed through clenched teeth. "Why don't you go wait in the car?"
The kit braved a look into those eyes. Anger greeted him there, fierce and strong, barley contained behind gates of gold. Shippou shivered, and quickly let himself into the Ferrari.
As soon as he shut the door, he heard the locks retract with a click, the car beeped. The alarm had been set.
Shippou pressed his nose against the cool glass, watching Inuyasha shove the key fob hastily into his pocket.
Inuyasha glimpsed back at the car, making sure the boy was indeed locked safely inside. Confirming this, he turned back to Naraku taking a step closer until they were only inches apart.
He felt the malevolent aura radiating from Naraku. Raw, untamed emotion churned and bubbled within his aura, intent on causing pain, sorrow, anguish.
Naraku had been trying to get to Shippou, manipulating his aura until it had overpowered the young kitsune.
He was just a child, an innocent child. Inuyasha snarled, baring his fangs at Naraku.
His youkai bubbled thick and hot in his veins. Suddenly it snapped, and for a brief second he let it go.
Naraku stumbled back, eyes wide with disbelief. A strong, overbearing aura pushed him, hot and domineering, enraged.
If you ever dare to touch him again….
The words streaked fire through Naraku, scalding him. He felt the enormity of the power manipulated by the hanyou.
Inuyasha didn't have to speak for Naraku to hear him. All youkai, half or not had the ability to project thoughts and emotions through the power of their aura.
He had underestimated the half breed whelp and his insatiable desire to protect the boy.
Sweat broke out on his brow as Naraku tried to exert his own aura in response to the overriding one dominated by Inuyasha.
He knew it was best to retreat for now. Withdrawing, he felt as though a hot iron had just been yanked out of his chest. His breath came in shallow gasps.
The hanyou had more power then he let on, Naraku would give him that. But he still needed to exercise control. Without it, he was doomed to be swallowed by his all consuming youkai.
Naraku smirked. That was a weakness that could work to his advantage. But for now….
"Good day to you Mr. Takahashi." He retreated back to the villa.
Inuyasha shook his head vigorously. Somehow he was able to reign his youkai back in. But it was getting harder and harder to do so. He only had his own self control to keep it in check, and that was slowly slipping. Eventually it wouldn't be enough.
Shaking that thought from his head, the hanyou returned to the car.
Shippou squirmed uncomfortably as Inuyasha settled into the driver's seat, slamming the door a little harder than necessary.
Taking a deep, calming breath, the hanyou turned to look back at Shippou.
"Are you all right?" His amber eyes scanned over the kitsune, searching for any sign of distress.
Shippou nodded, clutching his dog closer. Naraku had scared him. He shuddered at the remembrance of that icy cold presence invading his conscious. But he wouldn't tell Inuyasha that. It would only put more of a burden on the man's shoulders.
"Don't worry about Naraku. He won't' be bothering you again." I'll make sure of it.
Shippou seemed to relax somewhat after that, settling back into the creamy leather seat.
As the car purred to life and rumbled down the dirt road, Shippou let his mind wander. Inuyasha had said he was going to meet someone today. He could only guess as to who that person was.
The trees thinned out eventually, and soon Shippou could see the city looming before them, a mass of shining chrome and grey.
Inuyasha steered the car smoothly through the traffic, turning down countless avenues and busy intersections.
Finally, they pulled to a stop in front of an impressively tall building. It was a tower of polished silver glass, gleaming brightly in the morning sun.
Shippou was transfixed. He had never seen a building so tall; it almost rivaled the biggest tree in the forest near the villa. But unlike the tree he couldn't climb this building. It was as sleek as a snake demons skin. With a three hundred foot drop down to the streets below Shippou could only imagine what the view at the top must be like.
He glanced out the window to see people making their way hastily through the entrance. All of them were stunningly beautiful. Shippou watched a chocolate skinned woman, all lean toned legs strut through the door, her auburn hair swishing behind her in glossy waves.
Another woman, her skin as fair as porcelain walked gracefully through the doors, an armada of paparazzi with cameras scuttling behind her snapping pictures hastily.
Suddenly, Shippou was intimidated. Who were these beautiful people? He looked down at the clothes he wore, his small hands clutched in his lap. He felt so small, so insignificant compared to them. They seemed so confident, so in control.
He caught Inuyasha watching him, and sucked in a sharp breath.
"Ready?" The hanyou asked softly.
Shippou clutched his dog close to his chest.
"This is where we are meeting my friend, Kikyo." He explained, watching Shippou's green eyes flick to the building and the mob of people that surrounded it.
"I'll be with you the whole time." Inuyasha gazed into the small thin face shrouded by ginger hair. He didn't know what it was, but he felt the need to protect Shippou. For one so young, he had been through more than most could imagine.
Shippou swallowed the lump in his throat. If Inuyasha could do this, there was no reason he couldn't. He didn't want to be seen as a baby, after all. He was seven years old, perfectly old enough to walk without an adult hovering over him constantly.
The kitsune hopped out of the car, determined to take the walk like an adult would, with confidence.
The mob turned toward them, their eyes seeking fresh meat to capture in their lenses.
Shippou stumbled, his stomach lurching. He couldn't do this.
A large warm hand enclosed around his small clammy one. Shippou looked up, his cheeks coloring, to see Inuyasha leading him steadily up the walkway, his amber eyes portraying nothing.
A small squeeze to his hand reassured the fox child, and he walked a little taller.
The mob of flashing cameras parted before them, as Inuyasha strutted through the doorway as if he owned the place.
"It's Inuyasha Takahashi."….. "But who's that strange boy? …"Who's the child?" "Can he be the result of some torrid affair years before?" The murmurs floated through the crowd and Shippou's ears burned.
Inuyasha shot a glare through the crowd, and the murmurs fell silent. The cameras immediately stopped flashing.
They stepped through the rotating doors and into the posh lobby. Shippou stared. There were people coming and going, rushing to their destinations with haggard determination.
Inuyasha walked up to the counter, where a receptionist sat, speaking into the phone.
"I understand sir." She spoke calmly, but the exasperation leaked through her voice. "But if you would just wait five minutes I am sure we can get that non fat vanilla soy latte sent up for…"
The receptionist glared moodily into the phone as a dial tone rang out through the receiver.
"Models." She grumbled, shuffling her papers gingerly.
"Excuse me." Inuyasha spoke in his most suave voice.
The woman looked up, still ruffled from her conversation on the phone. Her hazel eyes immediately melted at the site of the delicious looking hanyou before her.
"I'm looking for Kikyo Miyamoto." Inuyasha explained smoothly.
The receptionist fought back a frown. The good ones were always taken. Plus he had a kid, which was a sure sign of something already in the works.
Upstairs, eighth floor, in the studio." She pointed down the hall.
"Thank you." Inuyasha gave her a wink. Leading Shippou down the hall, he couldn't help but chuckle at the flustered woman he left behind the counter.
Shippou was awestruck with the elevator. He pressed his nose against the glass window, mouth agape as the city below them grew smaller and smaller.
The elevator announced their arrival with a ding and Shippou jumped.
Inuyasha strode out of the elevator and into the bustling eighth floor. He turned back, to find Shippou rooted to the spot, still inside the elevator. His eyes were wide glassy orbs, transfixed ahead at the throng of people hurrying about.
The kid has a thing with crowds. Inuyasha noted inwardly to himself. He would have to keep that in mind for later. Tokyo was an immensely crowded place, especially to a child who had lived his entire life in the quiet seclusion of a building nestled in the forest. Seeing this many people was bound to frighten him.
He squatted down next to the anxious kit. "Remember what I said at the car."
Shippou nodded faintly, looking pale.
"I'm not going to leave you." The hanyou promised, looking somberly into Shippou's eyes.
"Do you think you can be brave and make the journey out there?" He asked softly.
Shippou shook his head, dropping his chin into his chest to stare at the carpeted floor of the elevator.
"M'not brave." He mumbled. A deep feeling of self loathing welled up inside him. He wanted to go and hide. Here Inuyasha was taking such good care of him, and what'd he do? He acted like a big baby. He couldn't even come out of an elevator without getting scared. Who would want a kid like that?
"What makes you say that?" Inuyasha questioned.
"I…I'm…I don't….I'm sorry." He whispered, looking thoroughly chastised. His tail fluttered limply to the ground, a sure sign of submission.
A soft, almost hesitant hand fell on Shippou's shoulder. He looked up, the hot lump in his throat pulsing painfully.
Rich amber eyes penetrated his doubt, filling him up until there was nothing left but tingling warmth.
Without a word Inuyasha took Shippou's small hand within his own and gently lead him out of the elevator.
The fox clung to the man's side the entire time, fearful of the new environment so full of different sights, sounds, scents, and people.
They walked down a hallway, Inuyasha heading purposefully for a set of double doors.
Inuyasha stopped just outside, one hand still clasped around Shippou's hand, the other on the cold metal handle, ready to push it open.
"When we go in, there's going to be a lot of bright lights, and sound." He explained, looking into Shippou's emerald eyes, trying to sound reassuring.
Shippou sucked on his bottom lip, trying to remain calm. As long as Inuyasha was with him, he'd be fine.
"This is where we're going to meet my friend, Kikyo. She's really excited to meet you. I've told her all about you." A small smile graced Inuyasha's lips.
"Ready?"
Shippou wasn't, but he didn't say anything, only nodded, trying to be brave like Inuyasha had asked him to.
"There's a good boy." Inuyasha said fondly, and then grimaced inwardly. Good boy? What was he, some empathetic old man? No. He was a hanyou, strong and proud. He didn't say things like 'good boy', especially to children. But still... In Shippou's eyes, there had been a small spark there, fighting its way out from the darkness that had claimed them for far too long.
Inuyasha decided he would nut up and let that comment slide. Besides, it's not long anyone had been around to hear him say it. He would be brave. He could do that for Shippou
Pushing open the door, they were greeted with a barrage of sound and flashing light.
"That's perfect Kikyo, oh baby give it to me! Yes! Yes! That's it! You're a sexy minx!" The photographer oozed compliments as he snapped another endless picture of the porcelain skinned woman posing before him in a glittering violet colored dress that clung to her like a second skin.
Kikyo struck another pose effortlessly, flashing a dazzling simile to the cameras.
A fan blew across the shoot, sending her raven tendrils fluttering behind her. The photographer lapped it up, snapping away furiously.
A thick looking man, the bouncer looked up looked up immediately when Inuyasha and Shippou walked in.
Catching sight of the familiar hanyou, he nodded, okaying his presence.
The model caught Inuyasha's eye in mid pose, her full lips a sexy pout for the cameras. Her mouth morphed into a wicked grin, much to the sheer delight of the photographers and camera men.
The man raised a brow at his girlfriend's audacious behavior. It's not that he wasn't used to this, he was. Kikyo's job involved her putting on…less then modest clothing and posing for cameras. It didn't help that most of the photographers and camera crew were men. Inuyasha suppressed an inward growl.
It was just for her job. He kept telling himself that as he took a seat in the back of the room. Shippou sat hesitantly in the chair beside him, immediately tucking his legs beneath him. His tail wrapped around his little body, almost like a shield.
Inuyasha caught site of the boys longing gaze, and followed it... Right to the buffet table. It called out longingly, with its steaming platters of sausages, eggs, waffles, muffins.
The kid probably hasn't eaten. He realized with a jolt, and then berated himself for not thinking of it sooner. The crap they feed him isn't nearly as sufficient as what he needs.
Inuyasha got up, earning an alarmed noise from Shippou.
"I'll be right back." He promised. "I'm just going right over there." He pointed behind them to the table.
Shippou seemed to settle, but only slightly.
Inuyasha snatched a plate from the spotless stack and began piling it high. Some scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, sausage, a muffin. He grabbed some chopsticks and some napkins, tucking them under the plate.
They would be going out to lunch afterwards, but he knew Shippou couldn't wait.
He held the plate out wordlessly. "There's a little of everything." He explained to the silent kitsune.
"May I, please?" Shippou whispered, looking at the plate longingly.
Inuyasha tucked the napkin under the child's shirt, and then gave him the plate to balance on his lap.
He watched as Shippou slowly plucked a bit of food up, raising it to his lips.
The look that spread across the child's face, it was sheer bliss as he immediately began gobbling the food up. Bits of egg crumbled on Shippou's shirt.
"Not so fast, you might make yourself sick." Inuyasha admonished gently.
Shippou stopped tearing into his sausage. Oh. Where were his manners? Of course he should be behaving better than this, not like some heathen. He knew better. Slowing down, he managed to avoid spilling yet another morsel onto his clothing.
The kitsune watched with an all-encompassing curiosity as the raven haired woman called Kikyo struck pose after pose, the cameramen eating it up.
"All right bring him in!" A man called out from behind his camera.
The crowd parted and a chiseled young man strolled through wrapped in a silken robe. His sun kissed tan contrasted well with Kikyo's creamy skin. He ambled up to her and winked, giving his long black pony tail a toss. He had electric blue eyes, and Inuyasha noticed him giving Kikyo an appreciative look.
The aura did not go unnoticed by the half demon. This man was no human. He reeked of youkai. Wolves to be specific. Inuyasha suppressed a snarl.
"Drop 'em Kouga." The supervisor called out.
The wolf demon did, and Inuyasha immediately clapped a hand over Shippou's eyes. This was getting way to mature for a young boy of seven to be witnessing.
"Let's take a tour shall we." He quickly swooped Shippou up and hustled out of the studio, resisting the urge to rip Kouga's head off.
A child is present, needless violence would only frighten him further. Inuyasha kept repeating this to himself, gritting his teeth determinedly.
He managed to get to another room down the hall without too much difficulty. All the while Inuyasha fought for control of his youkai blood. That was his girlfriend in there. That testosterone crazed wolf had absolutely no business flaunting himself over Kikyo like that. Modeling be damned.
She had assured me that there would be no nudity in the shots. Inuyasha was fuming to himself, as he dropped into a cushiony chair.
He glanced at Shippou and was startled to see the boy's face had gone ashen. The fox child was perched on the very edge of his sheet.
Inuyasha decided he had better jump in now, lest the child be permanently scarred. "That was something children aren't meant to see. Had I realized how inappropriate the situation was becoming, we would have left sooner. I apologize if you were uncomfortable in any way. That was not my intention."
"I…didn't see anything." Shippou managed to whisper after several silent moments. He clasped his hands in his lap, twisting his shirt into knots.
Shippou wasn't exactly sure why he felt so….self conscious all of a sudden. What had occurred back in the studio, he didn't quite understand it.
"So is that…her job?" Shippou asked, and then immediately berated himself for questioning such an obvious thing. Of course it was. Hadn't Inuyasha explained that they were going to be meeting his girlfriend today?
Shippou sniffed, picking idly at his t-shirt again. Girlfriend, it was a funny word. Kikyo was a girl, and she was Inuyasha's friend. Why did they have to place a special emphasize on it? Was there something different that 'girlfriends' did?
He didn't get it.
Inuyasha had seemed very upset when that other man had come into the room? Shippou had watched as the half demon got all flushed and grouchy
"Yes." Inuyasha answered the kits question, drumming his fingers on the table top. "Kikyo is a model."
"What's a model?"
"A model is someone who is employed by companies to pose and display clothing or merchandise."
Oh. Shippou didn't really get it, but he guessed it must have been a really great job. Kikyo had seemed really happy, especially when that man had come into the picture.
That satisfied smirk never left his face. Kikyo couldn't stop smiling either. They ate it up.
Inuyasha licked his lips, attempting to reign in the heat that seeped into his veins. He would have to have a talk with his girlfriend later.
But for now… Shippou needed him.
They flitted away the next hour by touring the building. Kikyo found them in the lounge, attempting to piece together a puzzle.
Inuyasha glanced up at the approach of his girlfriend. Kikyo had switched her clingy dress for a more casual look. Tight black slacks hugged her legs. She had opted for a cashmere top in white. Diamonds hung from her dainty ears. Inuyasha didn't doubt that the strappy heels on her feet were Jimmy Choos.
About as casual as the red carpet. Inuyasha shook his head, his amber eyes meeting Kikyo's chocolate ones. She always did value style. But then so did he, so there was no room to talk.
Kikyo flashed him an award winning smile. Inuyasha's mouth thinned into a line. She couldn't get away that easily. Just because she was a model and her contract permitted her to be draped across half naked men didn't mean she had to take so much satisfaction in it. She knew how he cherished their private life and didn't want it clashing with their professional lives.
'We'll talk later' He mouthed.
Kikyo's smile faltered.
"Shippou, I'd like you to meet my girlfriend, Kikyo. Kikyo, this is Shippou Kijutsu."
Not wanting to be rude, Shippou bowed respectively to his elder.
"It's very nice to meet you Miss Kikyo." Shippou mumbled to the floor.
He looked up, hesitantly. The woman was staring at him, her mouth puckered.
Uh Oh. That was never a good sign. Shipppou gulped. Silence usually insinuated that people didn't like him. He had no idea why, he hadn't done anything to offend Kikyo had he? He'd barley spoken! Maybe his presence offended her.
"It's a pleasure to meet you Shippou." Kikyo's voice was like smooth velvet. She bowed shortly.
Shippou's shoulders slumped in relief. He was safe.
"Shall we go have some tea then?" Kikyo asked crisply.
Inuyasha nodded.
The walk to the tea house was relatively short. A few blocks down from the modeling agency stood a quaint tea house tucked away among all the up and coming businesses.
Upon entering they were enveloped in a cloud of jasmine. Incense burned on the tables, the smoke billowing throughout the room in hazy clouds.
Inuyasha was bombarded by the flowery scent. It clung to him, seeping into his clothes, tickling his throat, making his nose itch, overwhelming his senses.
He could only imagine what Shippou must be feeling, being a full demon. He risked a glance at the small child.
Shippou's eyes were red and watery. His nose dripped like a leaky faucet. He reached up to wipe it with his sleeve. That smell was giving him a headache! But he wouldn't dare tell Inuyasha.
The hanyou's eyes narrowed. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea.
"Ready?" Kikyo looked at him expectantly. Her eyes compelled him to follow her to the table set up for them.
Shippou dropped onto a cushion, trying to fight the urge to itch his eyes. He didn't want to be rude. Hiten had reminded him to behave, and behave he would. He would show nothing but his best manners.
He eyed the burning incense dolefully. The smell was just so strong. But he would endure it.
A waitress appeared with menus, bowing slightly before leaving them to decide.
Shippou stared hopelessly at the menu. The words were so big and confusing. He wasn't able to read them. His heart battered his rib cage, and he felt his cheeks flush. What would they say when they found out? Laugh most likely. Who wouldn't?
Shippou felt his eyes water up, but it wasn't from the smell this time. He could feel the hitch make its way up his throat, ready to betray him in an embarrassing sob.
Large hands fell over his small ones, steadying the menu. Shippou looked up to find a sea of amber shrouded in a curtain of silver.
"Do you need help reading the menu Shippou?" Inuyasha's voice rumbled in Shippou's bones. He swallowed the hot lump in his throat and nodded timidly.
"Let's see here. This one is a raspberry mint tea." He pointed to a vivid description. "A serene infusion of crushed mint leaves and delectable raspberries mixed in a steamy brew. It's the ultimate drink to calm your soul and settle your troubles." Inuyasha read slowly and carefully, pointing each character out to Shippou so he could identify the words.
"This one says it's a peach tea, sprinkled with a hint of vanilla." Inuyasha traced a clawed finger over the sentence, watching as Shippou followed slowly with his eyes.
"And this one…."
"I'm ready to order now." Kikyo announced primly, closing her menu with a loud snap.
The waitress appeared, almost as if by command. Kikyo began listing off her orders. "I'll have the house special along with a side of onigiri."
The waitress nodded, her pen scratching away at her notebook.
"Also, some sake." Kikyo said nonchalantly with a wave of her hand.
Inuyasha cocked a brow at his girlfriend's behavior. She certainly was playing the part of a model, one who couldn't be bothered for that matter.
A small frown creased the hanyou's lips, but he said nothing. Perhaps her behavior was a reaction to a stressful day at the studio. Though he wondered how it could be too stressful. She had seemed content enough earlier. Kouga had seemed to ease her mood.
The waitress turned to him now. "The house tea please."
"And for you?" The waitress bent down to Shippou's level, sweeping her scarlet hair out of her eyes. A blue lilac was tucked behind her ear, a sprig of color within her vibrant red curls. Teal eyes looked upon the fox child with warm kindness.
But Shippou shrunk back at the sudden invasion of space.
"What would you like cutie?" She asked softly.
Shippou saw delicate fangs as she spoke. She was a youkai, though he couldn't tell what breed right off hand. He took a delicate sniff. No malice radiated off this woman.
"Have you decided?" Inuyasha prodded slightly.
Shippou looked up and blushed. Everyone was staring at him! They were expecting his order, but he didn't know what to get! There were so many choices.
Shippou pointed to the raspberry and mint tea. He guessed that one looked good, the description made it sound yummy at least.
"All right then." The waitress chirped. "I'll be back with your orders shortly." She bowed again and turned away, her silken white outfit fluttering behind her.
Shippou sneezed suddenly. The noise seemed magnified in the almost empty room. Heat rose to his cheeks, making him feel particularly flustered and stuffy. The smell of the incense seemed to choke him.
Inuyasha's amber orbs swept over the boy, concern laced within them. The kit seemed to be having a hard time with the incense. His face was tinged with the flush of illness. His jade eyes held no spark, only darkness greeted him.
Inuyasha placed a tentative hand on the child's forehead. Shippou stiffened under the touch, swaying slightly.
"Are you all right Shippou? You look ill."
"Mmmm." Shippou mumbled his mind in a fog. Somewhere, he knew he was supposed to be presenting his best manners, but he was just so groggy. The incense surrounded him in a thick warm cloud, muffling his senses.
Kikyo cleared her throat abruptly. "So, did you enjoy the photo shoot?" She leaned forward towards Inuyasha, her eyes sparkling.
Inuyasha blinked. "It was very... Informative." He grappled to find a word to satisfy her without revealing his true thoughts. He though that the photo shoot was a sex induced orgy meant to entice young people such as himself into buying the product featured on the glamorous models. If he had been anyone else Inuyasha might have fell for the trap. But he knew better, having worked with the people that planned such enticing marketing strategies to hook their clients.
Shippou lay his head down on the table, trying not to gag. His head swam with the over flowery scent. He knew that it was bad manners to rest your head on the table, but he couldn't help it.
Kikyo glanced at the small boy, and resisted the urge to sniff disdainfully. Really, children should have more manners. She didn't see why Inuyasha didn't correct this child's manners. He really was quite a distraction, something she did not need at this point in her life.
"I thought Kouga did a marvelous job, very professional." She mused aloud.
The waitress was at the table then, bearing steaming cups of tea and the sake. "I'll return shortly with your onigiri." She spoke quietly. Inuyasha noticed her hands shaking as she set down the cups, nearly sloshing the contents out. Pink rose to her cheeks, and she mumbled an apology before leaving hastily.
Kikyo cupped her chin into her hand and sighed. She couldn't see why it was taking so long. Really, what kind of service was this?
Inuyasha placed a calming hand over his girlfriends. He shot her a look. What was with her today?
Shippou coughed, the tickle catching in his throat. Kikyo flinched.
Oh. Oh.
Inuyasha pushed Shippou's cup towards him. "Why don't you have some tea, it will help."
Shippou picked up the steaming cup, inhaling the scent, hoping it might help clear his sinuses.
He took a small sip, the hot liquid running down his throat. It settled, warming him from the inside out.
It did help a little.
Inuyasha was busily analyzing his girlfriend. He had suspected her haughty attitude had to do with how the photo shoot went, but now he knew. It was Shippou.
The hanyou felt the burn of indignation rise up within him. She had no right to automatically rule the kit out, just because Kikyo wasn't necessarily a children person. But she was making small remarks over something so insignificant. She hadn't even given Shippou a chance.
The waitress returned with Kikyo's onigiri.
Delighted, the model dug into her food.
Shippou sipped his tea glumly. He felt awful. Secretly he hoped they would leave soon.
As if reading his mind, Inuyasha drained half his tea. He turned to the raven haired woman beside him. "Perhaps we ought to cut this short." He motioned meaningfully towards his charge.
Kikyo put down her chopsticks with a glare. Inuyasha knew that look in her eye. The sparkle was gone. A childish pout hung on her face. She was stalling to get her way.
The model crossed her arms in front of her chest. "We only just got here. I would like to enjoy my meal if you don't mind." She went back to picking at her food.
Inuyasha resisted the urge to growl at his girlfriend. She was being deliberately indifferent towards Shippou. It was starting to irritate him.
The hanyou signaled to the waitress to bring the bill. After slipping his platinum card into the booklet he turned to gather the kitsune into his arms.
"What about my onigiri?" Kikyo seethed.
"You can get a to-go box." He informed, standing up.
He grasped her hand briefly. "Hey. I'm sorry I had to cut this short. I know how much you wanted to get together. But…" His eyes cut to the child leaning heavily against his shoulder.
"He needs me."
"Well he's not the only one." Kikyo said coldly. She stood up abruptly, her eyes ominously dark.
"Let me know when my boyfriend returns." She spat before stalking out of the tea house, the door slamming in her wake.
The waitress returned with Inuyasha's credit card. "Here is your credit card sir. Thank you for dining at Tea Time." She bowed once more.
"Thank you. You've been excellent service. Allow me to tip you Miss…"
"Ayame." The young girl smiled, her eyes twinkling.
Inuyasha handed Ayame a bill. Her eyes widened in shock.
"I can't possibly take this, it's too much…"
Inuyasha chuckled. "Consider it compensation for putting up with my girlfriend's behavior."
"I…thank you."
Ayame looked down at the dozing kitsune in Inuyasha's arms. "You really have a way with him, I can tell." She said warmly.
Inuyasha hefted Shippou further up against his shoulder. "Thank you. I hope I'm doing something right."
"You are." Ayame smiled.
"See you around." Inuyasha raised his hand in farewell before disappearing out the door.
Once outside, he made quick work of the side walk, his powerful stride eating up the blocks until he stood in front of his car.
Unlocking the vehicle, Inuyasha stooped slowly, letting Shippou slide gently off his shoulder and into the back seat.
"M'sorry." The whisper came from half puckered lips. Inuyasha looked down into Shippou's face, drinking in his glassy eyes full of guilt, and a wavering need for salvation.
Inuyasha buckled him without a word. Brushing a strand of ginger hair away, he noticed the kits condition had improved somewhat since leaving the tea house. The pungent smell of the incense no longer seemed to have an affect over Shippou. This wasn't his fault.
Flames licked their way into Inuyasha's chest, and he bit back a hiss. How dare she? His thoughts swirled violently around the image of his girlfriend. He had never felt so disappointed, affronted by her behavior. Anger swelled within him over the fact that Kikyo would act so childish.
Once Shippou was safely buckled in, he started the car, and backed gracefully out of the parking spot.
Inuyasha maneuvered easily through the sweltering traffic until his building loomed before them.
The walk up to the apartment was thick with tension; Shippou could feel it, like ice heavy within his chest. He dared not ask Inuyasha what was the matter, instead choosing to keep silent, letting the silent demon within rage its fury.
Once inside, Shippou wisely decided to start on his homework. Inuyasha set him up at a desk, making sure he was comfortable enough.
Shippou saw Inuyasha's hands shake as he placed several pencils on the desk. The spark in his aura was strong; it snapped and writhed, sending an electric current through the air.
The kit began scratching furiously on his paper in an effort to block out the oppressing aura. He could feel the heat radiating from the half demon.
Inuyasha paced the room silently, grappling with his inner youkai. He could feel the heat, searing in his veins. A bold thought fluttered across his conscious. He would find Kikyo and confront her, make her understand.
Shippou's furious scrawling brought him out of his dark thoughts. Inuyasha looked over at the boy, so hard at work. A wave of calm trickled over the half demon, and he found his dark mood overcome by unknown warmth.
He looked over to see the kit bent over his paper, a look of determination etched in his face. Shippou's tongue poked out of the corner of his mouth as he squinted at the words on his paper.
How could anyone show such blatant indifference towards a child?
Shippou looked up just then, and Inuyasha found himself falling through endless green eyes. Thoughts of Kikyo immediately filtered to the back of his mind.
He would find a way around this, a way to protect Shippou. There was only one way to ensure the child's safety and well being.
Stealing one more glance at the kitsune, Inuyasha snatched up the phone, his fingers flying over the buttons.
He waited in baited silence as the tone rang and rang. Finally he was answered by a composed voice.
Inuyasha smirked, despite the situation he found himself in. He was a strong, independent man, who refused the assistance of others, no matter how dire the situation. He fought back a growl as he uttered a sentence he swore would never spill from his lips.
"I need your help."
A long silence prolonged his statement. Damn. That was never a good sign. He just didn't do this sort of thing.
Inuyasha grudgingly admitted that no one would be better to assist in this type of scenario.
"It's nice to hear from you little brother." The smooth voice flowed into Inuyasha's ear.
Inuyasha swallowed a hot retort, and cleared his throat. He reminded himself that he needed this type of leverage on his side, even if that leverage involved Sesshomaru.
I hope you liked it! Inuyasha has got to come up with a solution to protect Shippou, any guesses as to what this might be? :) I look forward to your comments.
