Timeless Love
folder
InuYasha › General
Rating:
Adult ++
Chapters:
16
Views:
3,320
Reviews:
82
Recommended:
0
Currently Reading:
1
Category:
InuYasha › General
Rating:
Adult ++
Chapters:
16
Views:
3,320
Reviews:
82
Recommended:
0
Currently Reading:
1
Disclaimer:
I do not own InuYasha, nor make money from this story.
Starting over
Disclaimer: I still do not own Inuyasha, so I'm still broke!
Thank you ldymoon and XxSangoxX for your helpful comments. Also thanks to Who_do_you_do, Mirokus dream, and sesshy 69 for your reveiw too.
Chapter three coming this weekend!
***********
Chapter Two: Starting over
Miroku found Shippo in a pool of blood. He had witnessed the last part of the battle and understood what had happen. Carefully he lifted Shippo's limp body and carried him to his hut. Miroku knew helping Shippo was against the youkai rule, but he couldn't leave Shippo there to be eaten by wild animals. Besides, no one in his family was youkai so it would be ok.
Sango helped Kaede rub herbs on Shippo’s wounds and then wrap them up. When they were done, Kaede left Sango some tea that would help Shippo with the pain when he woke up.
It took him two days but Shippo finally came out of it. “What am I doing here? I thought I was dead.” Shippo questioned Miroku weakly.
“I brought you back here after the battle. Inuyasha stabbed you on the right side of your chest, so that it missed your heart.”
“He let me live? But…why, my vow was to the death.”
“Your vow?” Sango asked as she handed him a cup of tea.
“Yes, his vow of protector.” Myoga said as if appearing out of no where.
Sango looked to Miroku with questions flowing in her eyes.
“Inuyasha found me the day before the battle and explained very little. He told me he would have to fight Shippo and I needed to be around after the clouds covered the moon. That’s how I knew when to look for Shippo. He told me not to say anything to anyone.”
Myoga asked the question that was now on everyone’s mind.
“Well you may be wondering, that’s odd how would he know when and where the battle was to take place? To answer your question, I’m not sure how but he was sure of it. He just knew Shippo would…” At that moment they all looked to Shippo.
“I would what?”
“Act on you your vow.” Myoga answered.
“My vow… Chiyoko.” Shippo whispered to himself as a tear fell from his eye “I will keep my vow to you.”
“Shippo, do you know what the vow you made really means?”
“What do you mean?” Shippo looked to Myoga with confusion. His vow was to protect Chiyoko what else could it mean?
“Of course, you’re still too young. Normally a youkai’s parents will have this talk with their child when their at least two or three times your age, but since you have already gone this far, I might as well tell you.” Myoga had been the one to explain this to Inuyasha when he had came of age, now he had to do the same with Shippo.
“Mate…I challenged Inuyasha…I didn’t know.” Shippo sat there staring blankly at the wall. “It doesn’t matter. I will fight to the day I die, I gave my word. I will be Chiyoko’s protector…and mate.
* * * * * * * * * *
It took Shippo weeks before he was fully recovered. Once he was, his family moved away. Shippo still visited Miroku and Sango often, but was careful to make sure it wasn’t when Inuyasha and his family were round. He asked Yin if she’d seen Chiyoko, but every time the answer was the same, no.
The only thing Shippo had left of Chiyoko was the picture she had given him.
~flashback~
Shippo helped Chiyoko climbed out of the well like always. Today she had brighter smile on her face then usual.
“Shippo, look what I got!” She waved a colored envelope in the air.
“What is it?”
“Pictures, but if you want to see them you have to catch me first.”
She ran as fast as she could to the lake. She knew he was a faster than she was, but as always he would let her get a head start. He loved to sniff the air and find her by her smell alone. It was so sweat and intoxicating. He could smell which direction she was going in and just as she reached the lake he hopped down off the tree and tackled her to the ground. He made sure she would land on him so she wouldn’t get hurt by the fall. “Got you” he said and they both laughed.
Sitting by the lake Chiyoko showed Shippo the pictures. “This one is my favorite.” She said as she handed him a picture of the two of them. He remembered that it was Kagome who took the picture. They were out side of their second home play fighting when Kagome said “Say cheese!” The picture came out perfect. It didn’t look like they were play-fighting but more like she was sitting on his lap. His arms were wrapped around her waist and her hands looked as if to be holding his.
“Wow, this picture came out really nice. For some reason I thought it wouldn’t because we were playing around when we took it.”
“I know that’s what I thought to. You can have that picture if you want. I have doubles of all the pictures.”
“Really, thanks.”
~ End flashback~
To think that was only a few weeks ago. The picture would be the only way Shippo would be able to see Chiyoko. Everyday he would sniff the air to see if he could pick up her scent but never did he smell it. He knew Inuyasha would keep to his word and never let her back through the well. He understood why, so he wasn’t mad at Inuyasha. Instead, he was kind of sad. The vow he made had made it impossible for him to be near Inuyasha and his family. Inuyasha had the right to kill Shippo to protect his family, after all it was the only other way to end Shippo’s vow, being that Shippo refused to forfeit. Mygoa told Shippo if he ever forfeited and gave up the claim on Chiyoko, Shippo would never be able to have her, not even by permission.
Shippo knew what he had to do. He wasn’t strong enough to battle Inuyasha again, at least not now. It would take him five hundred years but it was the only way. He would train and war until he’s a great warrior and then he will renew his challenge. Next time he will make Inuyasha forfeit the right to Chiyoko or he’ll have to kill him. Either way Shippo was going to make sure it ended with him the victor.
Shippo traveled far and wide training under only the best. At one time he even trained under Sesshomaru. He made sure he learned different kinds of fighting styles that was ever thought of. He’d also been in many wars and received numerous awards of honor. Everything he had been through was easy compared to living all those years without Chiyoko.
Every night before bed Shippo would unwrap his picture and look at it. The thought of seeing her again would help him to make it just one more day.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Life had to go on for everybody. Haruki married Yin and had two kids. Yin being human died after living a long happy life. Haruki however never remarried nor intended to. Rei on the other hand, loved the same man all her life and was fully devoted to him. Every where he went she followed and every tear he would ever shed she would wipe away. Her love was so deep all she ever wanted in life was to see him happy.
Shippo lived simply to be the best he could. Everything had to be perfect. He knew Inuyasha and Kagome would want only the best for Chiyoko. As time drew closer to Kagome’s time Haruki and Shippo bought a house near by the Higurashi shrine. Shippo even opened a training school in the area. He wanted to make sure everything was set up before her time so there would be no reason for any one to be suspicious.
Being a fox youkai had its advantages. Shippo would transform into an American man named Sam and visit the shrine once a week. Kagome always enjoyed his visits. Every week Shippo was sure to bring a little gift for Kagome. It was fascinating to watch her as a little girl. He had missed Kagome so much over the years. Although he never let her know who he really was, the two shared a special bond. After Kagome got into high school Shippo new things had to change. Soon Inuyasha would be in the picture and even if he was transformed Inuyasha would smell that it was him.
The time came when he had to send Sam away. “Uncle Sam!” Kagome ran to greet him with a hug. Ever since she was three she called him uncle. Sam was old with gray thinning hair and a mustache.
“I have a gift for you Kagome.”
“Don’t you think I’m too big to get gifts anymore?”
“No, after all you’ve done for me; it’s the least I could do.” Shippo didn’t feel he should lie to her about that.
“Uncle Sam I’ve never done anything to deserve your kindness”
“That’s where you’re wrong you’ve done more than you’ll ever know.”
Kagome smiled as he handed her a backpack.
“I know your fifteenth birthday is coming up soon and along with it many new journeys I thought maybe this backpack would come in handy.”
“Oh, thank you. I love it. I promise I’ll take it on many journeys.” She said as she put it on her back.
“Kagome, I have to tell you something.”
“What is it?”
“I will be leaving to go back to America in a few days.”
“Oh, uncle Sam I’m going to miss you.” Kagome hugged him tightly and cried.
“I will miss you too.” Shippo said as he hugged her back.
That was the last time he spoke to Kagome in her time. Shippo would still see Kagome around town but made sure to stay a safe distance away. As much as it hurt him he knew his mission and couldn’t risk the possibility of Chiyoko never being born.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Haruki and Rei looked in puzzlement as Shippo franticly counted.
“What are you counting Shippo?” Haruki asked.
“I need to know what day Kagome makes her wish.”
Rei walked over to Shippo and kissed him on the cheek. “Shippo you’re going to kill yourself with worry. Stop trying to figure everything out and just let it happen. When the time comes you’ll know.”
“She’s right.” Haruki chimed in.
Shippo lowered his head to cover his watery eyes “I miss her so much!”
Rei lifted his head and looked into his eyes “So do we. It won’t be much longer. You’ve come too far to start losing your head now. You still have fourteen years after she born before you can do anything any way. Try and enjoy life for a little while.”
The tears from Shippo’s eyes touched her fingers. “I’ll try, but I’m still going to keep watch.”
Two months later Shippo was looking out his bedroom window when he saw a bright light cut into the darkness of the night. The light was coming from the shrine. Shippo transformed into a bird and flew there quickly. As he got there he saw Inuyasha jump out of the well and grab Kagome. They were crying. Was this what he’d been waiting for he wondered as he sat on a tree branch and watched. That’s when he heard the words “I never want to live a minute without you in my life again, it was just too painful. I want to be your mate and never leave your side. Kagome say you’ll marry me.”
“Inuyasha not even time can keep you from me. Of course I’ll marry you.”
Shippo felt a new hope grow inside him as he lay in his bed that night. Knowing things where going the way they where suppose to he was finally at ease. And for the first time in a long time he slept soundly.
He still trained everyday, but there was a noticeable difference in him. Shippo started to enjoy life again.
A few nights later Shippo invited Rei over to the house to watch some kung fu movies. It was out of Shippo’s character to do such a thing, most nights he either trained or would sit in his room and think. Haruki was at work and Shippo thought it might be nice to spend some time with his sister. “It sure has been along time since we’ve done anything together.” He thought out loud as he picked up the phone and called her.
Rei had made them sushi for dinner.
“Wow, Rei I didn’t know you cooked. This is really good.”
“There is a lot about me that you don’t know.”
“What do you mean by that? You’re my sister of course I know a lot about you.”
“I’m not your…I mean you’ve spent all these years training. You never had time to get to really know me as we grew up so I was always just there. I understand why though so it’s ok.”
“I’m sorry. I know…”
Rei put her finger to Shippo’s lips stopping the words he was about to say. “I said its ok.” She gave him a side smile as she moved her hand and paused to look into his eyes. He looked back at her for what seemed to be a minute. She had such a sad look in her eyes he couldn’t turn away. Instead he did what came most natural. He leaned over slowly and kissed her tenderly.
“Rei…thank you for being so understanding. If it weren’t for you I might have given up on my self along time ago.”
“All I’ve ever wanted was to see you happy. Why wouldn’t I have helped?”
Shippo gave her a wide toothy smile “Lets go watch that movie before it gets too late.” He walked into the living room never seeing her touch her cheek where he had kissed her.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Inuyasha had been so happy Kagome agreed to marry him. That night they made the announcement to Kagome’s family and the next day they had their first wedding in the feudal era. Inuyasha pick out a last name and started on his paper work. There was so much to do before he could get married in this era. Inuyasha needed a job in order to support a family too.
“Kagome, why don’t we just stay in my time it would be much easier? There’s just too much for me to do in order to stay here.”
“Inuyasha stop being such a baby! If you don’t get your paper work done here I’ll always be considered single. That would only mean Hojo and other guys would want to marry me.”
“You’re mine and if…”
“Then stop complaining and do what you have to do here.” She cut him off with a amused smile.
When Inuyasha’s paper work came in his next step was to get a job. Inuyasha put on a red button up shirt and black slacks with a nice black hat. “I feel stupid, why can’t I just wear my own clothes?”
Kagome handed him a pair black shoes and some socks. “I think you look rather sexy if you ask me?” She licked her lips suggestively. Inuyasha wanted to rip her clothes off right there and make love to her, but in this time they weren’t married and Kagome’s mother would have a fit.
“Fine, I’ll wear this stupid outfit, if you promise to take it off of me when I get home.”
Kagome smiled wickedly. “Oh, that won’t be a problem. In fact I’ll do it with no hands.”
Inuyasha walked around the town looking for work. Everything was either to boring or he didn’t have the education to fill the job position. “There’s nothing out here I can or like to do.” As the words came out his mouth he spotted a sign on a window that said ‘HELP WANTED’. Inuyasha walked up to the window and peeped in. There was only one guy in there and it looked like he was fighting by himself. He watched the guy for a few moments ‘Wow, he’s pretty good’ he thought to himself. The guy was a middle aged tall Japanese man with dark brown hair and a lean body. “Well, here goes nothing” Inuyasha said a he opened the door and went in.
As Inuyasha approached, the man stopped and turned to look at him.
“Shippo…is that you!?!”
“Inuyasha” Shippo stood staring at Inuyasha.
“I didn’t recognize you in costume, but the moment I stepped foot in here I knew it was you. It’s good to see you here in this time.”
Shippo realized at this point in time he and Inuyasha hadn’t battle yet for Chiyoko. In fact, Chiyoko wasn’t even conceived yet. “It’s good to see you to!” Shippo transformed back into himself and without even thinking Shippo went to Inuyasha and gave him a hug.
“Shippo? Are you all right? Why are you crying?”
“I…I missed you so much Inuyasha. It’s been so long.”
Despite all that has happen and will happen Shippo always looked up to Inuyasha. Shippo had broken down like a little boy in tears. Of course Inuyasha had no idea why. Shippo struggled to pull himself together.
“So long; what happened?”
“I can’t tell you. I wouldn’t want to spoil the surprise.”
Inuyasha looked at Shippo noticing how much he had grown. Although Shippo was around 550 years old he looked to be in his early twenties. Shippo was as tall as Inuyasha was now and no longer had his fox legs. His hair was also cut short like most of the modern men. Inuyasha even noticed what good shape his body was in. “I guess living with that fox family really did you well. You look good Shippo.”
“Thanks Inuyasha. Oh, was there something that you needed?”
“Ah, I saw a sign that said ‘HELP WANTED’ and I thought I’d come and check it out. Who do I need to speck with?”
Shippo grinned and said the next word so proudly there was no questioning him “ME”.
“Oh, well then…give me a job.”
“Wow, you never told me you worked in this time.” Shippo said more to himself then to Inuyasha.
“Yeah, that’s probably because I work for you.”
Shippo hired Inuyasha as a trainer in his school right on the spot. However, Shippo had to lay down some rules. His last rule was the most important “No killing!”
“I know that, I’m not a complete idiot.”
After Inuyasha got his schedule he was about to leave when Shippo stopped him "Inuyasha I don't go by my real name in this school nor will you ever see me in this school without being transformed. I go by master Yoshi."
"Alright."
"And one more thing I don't want anyone to know I'm here...not even...Kagome."
"But...why?"
"When the time is right I'll tell you, until then you are the only one to know who I am. Please Inuyasha."
"Of course, Shippo."
Inuyasha went back to the shrine with mixed emotions. He was happy he was able to get a job and even more happy it was with Shippo. But what had happen that Shippo felt the need to cry when he saw him. And why out of all people Shippo didn't want Kagome to know that he was here.
Kagome was happy Inuyasha was working at the training school and Inuyasha had enjoyed it as well. Kagome continued going to school while Inuyasha worked; they both traveled through the well everyday. To Inuyasha it felt like time in this era seemed to go by too quickly, in just a few weeks Inuyasha and Kagome where married. At Inuyasha's request his boss master Yoshi was the best man.
After Kagome finished School she spent most of her time in the feudal era. It was mainly because she was pregnant. Inuyasha took the money he had saved up and bought a house right next to the shrine so that travel would be easy on both of them.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"I'm going to the hospital today Haruki. Would you like to come with me?" Shippo asked as he looked out his window.
"The hospital?"
"Yes, Chiyoko was born today." Shippo's heart was light as he spoke, the day was finally here. Inuyasha had invited him earlier that morning.
"Yeah, I can't wait to see her."
"Alright, let me call Rei and then we'll leave"
Rei met Shippo and Haruki at the entrance of the hospital. As they entered the maternity hall Shippo's heart started to beat faster, his knees became weak and he started to feel dizzy. "I can't do this" Shippo said and turned around to leave.
Haruki grabbed Shippo's arm "What's wrong?"
"I don't know, I just..."
"I know it has to be hard, after so long but don't worry we're here with you." Haruki's words were comforting and Shippo was able to make his way down the hall.
When Shippo reached the glass room where all the babies were, he spotted her at once. "She's just as perfect as I remember." Shippo's hand touched the glass in front of him as he watched her sleep from a distance.
Inuyasha rounded the corner with a wide smile. "I'm a father!" Haruki and Rei congratulated him but Shippo still hadn't moved. "Hey, Shippo would you like to hold her?"
"No, that's ok. I have to go. I have to fill in for you today so maybe next time. I'm real happy for you Inuyasha. I know you'll be a great dad." With that said Shippo hugged Inuyasha and left.
"Shippo, wait!" called Rei just as he got into his car. Shippo either didn't hear her or didn't care. He sped away as fast as he could. Rei had taken her own car and knew where he was going. Just like she had thought she would, she found him in his office. His head was in his hands and his shoulders were slumped over. It hurt Rei to see Shippo like this. Slowly she walked over to him and knelt down beside him. With a soft whisper she spoke to him "Shippo, try and be happy, you waited for this day for so long and it's finally here. Compared to all the time you've already waited these next fourteen years will go by quickly."
"Yeah, but Rei, this is different. In just a few days the relationship between me and Inuyasha will change again. I just got use to having him in my life again, and now... she's here and all I can do is watch from a far. The time might go by quicker but the wait will be much harder. Not only that, but right now my mate is a baby. What am I supposed to, I'm an adult youkai with needs?" tears continued to flow freely from his eyes.
Rei held Shippo close to her in comfort. "Shippo the day you made that vow to Chiyoko, Inuyasha wasn't the only one who heard it. Haruki and I heard you too. Although we didn't understand everything until we were older, we knew you would stay true to your word. Shippo you did more then became a great warrior, you became a great man with a heart any man would kill to have. I admire you for all that you've been through and I knew even if it hurts you, you will do what ever is necessary in order to keep your word. But if the day ever comes that it all becomes too much for you, and you feel you have to give up, I'm here for you." Rei raised her head a little and was face to face with Shippo. Taking her hand she gently wiped the tears away. Moving in closer then she had intended she paused before lightly kissing him on the lips. Lost to his pain Shippo didn't resist.
The kiss was like a dip in the lake on a hot summer day. The tension Shippo had held onto for so long disappeared. And what’s more, Shippo felt like a man. The last kiss he had was with Chiyoko, over five hundred years ago. Since then he learned to control his awakenings with more training. This time however Shippo let his emotions take over. He felt the animal in him wake up and before he could think his body was already acting. He broke off the kiss and picked Rei up off the floor placing her on his desk with him standing between her legs. He stared at her with fire in his eyes daring her to kiss him again.
She waited all her life for this moment and hoped she wasn't dreaming. Lavishly she kissed him again. She knew they wouldn't mate but she would settle for a passionate rut. Roughly Shippo rubbed his hands over her body while his tongue mingled with hers. Rei took her nails and slid them down the front of his shirt exposing his rock hard abs. She had seen them before but this time she would feel them against her body. In a haste her lips went from his mouth to the nape of his neck and then onto his bare chest. Her kisses were hard yet full with love. The taste of his body filled every fiber of her being as she slowly licked a trail from his belly button up to his ear. Taking his ear lobe into her mouth she sucked and nibbled on it eagerly.
He could smell the heat grow in her which only made his sexual awakening even stronger. Shippo tore her light yellow dress she was wearing off of her leaving her only in her underwear. There was nothing but lust flowing though his veins yet he still refused to be the one to kiss her. Grabbing Shippo's face she forcefully parted his lips with her tongue. He enjoyed her roughness and squeezed at her breast. With her free hand she untied his pants letting them fall to the floor. Sliding her hand into his boxers she took hold of his butt and pushed him closer to her. A growl escaped his throat and he felt the need to bite her.
He wanted her so badly. His body needed her. He didn't have to bite her, he could just take right there, after all she was willing. He could smell just how bad she wanted him. His growl became louder full with pure adulterated lust as his body gyrated against hers. Their panting became shallow and few between her kisses. The only thing in the way of his entry was two small pieces of clothing and his conscience. He couldn't just rut with her and leave. Not Rei of all people. If he was to rut with her he would stay with her. His lips wrapped around her neck and he positioned his teeth to mark her properly. Moaning her approval she brought her head back. He closed his eyes as his teeth tightened to pierce her flesh. Her blood boiled knowing after he marked her they would indeed be mated.
Shippo slowly removed his lips from the spot. "I love Chiyoko...I'm sorry I can't do this, any of this." Shippo rested his head on her shoulder "Can you ever find it in your heart to forgive me Rei?"
Rei tenderly rubbed his back in a comforting motion with her two hands. "Of course, if you can forgive me?"
"You have no reason to apologize. You acted on love...I...I gave into my animal instincts."
"And even still you would have marked me, giving up your claim on Chiyoko instead of just leaving me impure. That doesn’t sound like an animal to me. You’re a good man Shippo. And if anyone acted selfishly it was me, regardless of my feelings for you I should not have let it get as far as it did."
Shippo lifted his pants and handed her one of the schools uniforms to put on. "Rei, if you don't mind me asking, how long have you felt this way about me?" He turned around allowing her to dress.
"I don't know...to me you were never my brother. I guess as far back as I can remember I had feelings for you. I was so jealous of Chiyoko but at the same time I was happy for her. She really has a great man." Once Rei finished dressing she headed for the door.
"Rei, one last question… am I the reason you've never mated?"
Rei smiled sadly at Shippo "No, I just never found the right person" she lied and walked out the door.
Shippo still had some time before class started and decided he should work out to let off some steam. His mind ran through everything that had happened that day. The moment he had got the call from Inuyasha he was overwhelmed with joy. Between that time and going to the hospital somehow fear started to take over. Fear of losing Inuyasha as a friend again. Upon seeing Chiyoko his emotions changed again. This time he wasn’t sure what they were. Part of him felt the deep love he had always had for her while another part cursed himself for now being vowed to a baby.
Shippo was an adult youkai who now experienced his sexual awakenings at full strength. But he couldn’t look at Chiyoko in that way now, she was a baby and that would be disgusting. He knew it would be a long time before he could view her as someone he wanted to be mated to.
When Rei had walked in earlier he had been thinking about that very thing. Just thinking about Rei now made Shippo have to put in twice the effort into his training. He had never thought of Haruki and Rei as his sibling but best friends. Growing up Shippo had started to spend less time with Rei, and when ever he did, he made sure Haruki was with them. Even though Shippo loved Chiyoko, five hundred years was a long time to wait, especially for a growing male youkai. It didn’t help that Rei treated him with such love and kindness; in addition he knew she harbored feelings for him beyond friendship. As time went by she even became more and more beautiful. She was even more beautiful then her mother had been. He pictured Rei as she sat on his desk nearly naked. Her long straight auburn hair, dark green eyes, and natural tanned color on her skin were enchanting. Rei’s body was muscular and strong yet still smooth and feminine. Even fully clothed her bust line was something to gawk at.
There had been so many times he had wanted to taste her, mainly when he knew she was in heat. But Shippo knew even though he loved her he wasn’t in love with her and could never just take advantage of her to satisfy his urges. On top of that Shippo wanted to stay pure for Chiyoko. To him giving into another woman’s body would be the same as dishonoring his vow to her.
Shippo made up his mind, baby or no baby, his vow was to protect Chiyoko and that is what he would do. For the time being he would dismiss the fact that he had wanted her as a mate. Once she came of age he knew he would still want her in that way, but for now it was just too weird.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Shippo says "Please review if you want more. You know you want it!"
Thank you ldymoon and XxSangoxX for your helpful comments. Also thanks to Who_do_you_do, Mirokus dream, and sesshy 69 for your reveiw too.
Chapter three coming this weekend!
***********
Chapter Two: Starting over
Miroku found Shippo in a pool of blood. He had witnessed the last part of the battle and understood what had happen. Carefully he lifted Shippo's limp body and carried him to his hut. Miroku knew helping Shippo was against the youkai rule, but he couldn't leave Shippo there to be eaten by wild animals. Besides, no one in his family was youkai so it would be ok.
Sango helped Kaede rub herbs on Shippo’s wounds and then wrap them up. When they were done, Kaede left Sango some tea that would help Shippo with the pain when he woke up.
It took him two days but Shippo finally came out of it. “What am I doing here? I thought I was dead.” Shippo questioned Miroku weakly.
“I brought you back here after the battle. Inuyasha stabbed you on the right side of your chest, so that it missed your heart.”
“He let me live? But…why, my vow was to the death.”
“Your vow?” Sango asked as she handed him a cup of tea.
“Yes, his vow of protector.” Myoga said as if appearing out of no where.
Sango looked to Miroku with questions flowing in her eyes.
“Inuyasha found me the day before the battle and explained very little. He told me he would have to fight Shippo and I needed to be around after the clouds covered the moon. That’s how I knew when to look for Shippo. He told me not to say anything to anyone.”
Myoga asked the question that was now on everyone’s mind.
“Well you may be wondering, that’s odd how would he know when and where the battle was to take place? To answer your question, I’m not sure how but he was sure of it. He just knew Shippo would…” At that moment they all looked to Shippo.
“I would what?”
“Act on you your vow.” Myoga answered.
“My vow… Chiyoko.” Shippo whispered to himself as a tear fell from his eye “I will keep my vow to you.”
“Shippo, do you know what the vow you made really means?”
“What do you mean?” Shippo looked to Myoga with confusion. His vow was to protect Chiyoko what else could it mean?
“Of course, you’re still too young. Normally a youkai’s parents will have this talk with their child when their at least two or three times your age, but since you have already gone this far, I might as well tell you.” Myoga had been the one to explain this to Inuyasha when he had came of age, now he had to do the same with Shippo.
“Mate…I challenged Inuyasha…I didn’t know.” Shippo sat there staring blankly at the wall. “It doesn’t matter. I will fight to the day I die, I gave my word. I will be Chiyoko’s protector…and mate.
* * * * * * * * * *
It took Shippo weeks before he was fully recovered. Once he was, his family moved away. Shippo still visited Miroku and Sango often, but was careful to make sure it wasn’t when Inuyasha and his family were round. He asked Yin if she’d seen Chiyoko, but every time the answer was the same, no.
The only thing Shippo had left of Chiyoko was the picture she had given him.
~flashback~
Shippo helped Chiyoko climbed out of the well like always. Today she had brighter smile on her face then usual.
“Shippo, look what I got!” She waved a colored envelope in the air.
“What is it?”
“Pictures, but if you want to see them you have to catch me first.”
She ran as fast as she could to the lake. She knew he was a faster than she was, but as always he would let her get a head start. He loved to sniff the air and find her by her smell alone. It was so sweat and intoxicating. He could smell which direction she was going in and just as she reached the lake he hopped down off the tree and tackled her to the ground. He made sure she would land on him so she wouldn’t get hurt by the fall. “Got you” he said and they both laughed.
Sitting by the lake Chiyoko showed Shippo the pictures. “This one is my favorite.” She said as she handed him a picture of the two of them. He remembered that it was Kagome who took the picture. They were out side of their second home play fighting when Kagome said “Say cheese!” The picture came out perfect. It didn’t look like they were play-fighting but more like she was sitting on his lap. His arms were wrapped around her waist and her hands looked as if to be holding his.
“Wow, this picture came out really nice. For some reason I thought it wouldn’t because we were playing around when we took it.”
“I know that’s what I thought to. You can have that picture if you want. I have doubles of all the pictures.”
“Really, thanks.”
~ End flashback~
To think that was only a few weeks ago. The picture would be the only way Shippo would be able to see Chiyoko. Everyday he would sniff the air to see if he could pick up her scent but never did he smell it. He knew Inuyasha would keep to his word and never let her back through the well. He understood why, so he wasn’t mad at Inuyasha. Instead, he was kind of sad. The vow he made had made it impossible for him to be near Inuyasha and his family. Inuyasha had the right to kill Shippo to protect his family, after all it was the only other way to end Shippo’s vow, being that Shippo refused to forfeit. Mygoa told Shippo if he ever forfeited and gave up the claim on Chiyoko, Shippo would never be able to have her, not even by permission.
Shippo knew what he had to do. He wasn’t strong enough to battle Inuyasha again, at least not now. It would take him five hundred years but it was the only way. He would train and war until he’s a great warrior and then he will renew his challenge. Next time he will make Inuyasha forfeit the right to Chiyoko or he’ll have to kill him. Either way Shippo was going to make sure it ended with him the victor.
Shippo traveled far and wide training under only the best. At one time he even trained under Sesshomaru. He made sure he learned different kinds of fighting styles that was ever thought of. He’d also been in many wars and received numerous awards of honor. Everything he had been through was easy compared to living all those years without Chiyoko.
Every night before bed Shippo would unwrap his picture and look at it. The thought of seeing her again would help him to make it just one more day.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Life had to go on for everybody. Haruki married Yin and had two kids. Yin being human died after living a long happy life. Haruki however never remarried nor intended to. Rei on the other hand, loved the same man all her life and was fully devoted to him. Every where he went she followed and every tear he would ever shed she would wipe away. Her love was so deep all she ever wanted in life was to see him happy.
Shippo lived simply to be the best he could. Everything had to be perfect. He knew Inuyasha and Kagome would want only the best for Chiyoko. As time drew closer to Kagome’s time Haruki and Shippo bought a house near by the Higurashi shrine. Shippo even opened a training school in the area. He wanted to make sure everything was set up before her time so there would be no reason for any one to be suspicious.
Being a fox youkai had its advantages. Shippo would transform into an American man named Sam and visit the shrine once a week. Kagome always enjoyed his visits. Every week Shippo was sure to bring a little gift for Kagome. It was fascinating to watch her as a little girl. He had missed Kagome so much over the years. Although he never let her know who he really was, the two shared a special bond. After Kagome got into high school Shippo new things had to change. Soon Inuyasha would be in the picture and even if he was transformed Inuyasha would smell that it was him.
The time came when he had to send Sam away. “Uncle Sam!” Kagome ran to greet him with a hug. Ever since she was three she called him uncle. Sam was old with gray thinning hair and a mustache.
“I have a gift for you Kagome.”
“Don’t you think I’m too big to get gifts anymore?”
“No, after all you’ve done for me; it’s the least I could do.” Shippo didn’t feel he should lie to her about that.
“Uncle Sam I’ve never done anything to deserve your kindness”
“That’s where you’re wrong you’ve done more than you’ll ever know.”
Kagome smiled as he handed her a backpack.
“I know your fifteenth birthday is coming up soon and along with it many new journeys I thought maybe this backpack would come in handy.”
“Oh, thank you. I love it. I promise I’ll take it on many journeys.” She said as she put it on her back.
“Kagome, I have to tell you something.”
“What is it?”
“I will be leaving to go back to America in a few days.”
“Oh, uncle Sam I’m going to miss you.” Kagome hugged him tightly and cried.
“I will miss you too.” Shippo said as he hugged her back.
That was the last time he spoke to Kagome in her time. Shippo would still see Kagome around town but made sure to stay a safe distance away. As much as it hurt him he knew his mission and couldn’t risk the possibility of Chiyoko never being born.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Haruki and Rei looked in puzzlement as Shippo franticly counted.
“What are you counting Shippo?” Haruki asked.
“I need to know what day Kagome makes her wish.”
Rei walked over to Shippo and kissed him on the cheek. “Shippo you’re going to kill yourself with worry. Stop trying to figure everything out and just let it happen. When the time comes you’ll know.”
“She’s right.” Haruki chimed in.
Shippo lowered his head to cover his watery eyes “I miss her so much!”
Rei lifted his head and looked into his eyes “So do we. It won’t be much longer. You’ve come too far to start losing your head now. You still have fourteen years after she born before you can do anything any way. Try and enjoy life for a little while.”
The tears from Shippo’s eyes touched her fingers. “I’ll try, but I’m still going to keep watch.”
Two months later Shippo was looking out his bedroom window when he saw a bright light cut into the darkness of the night. The light was coming from the shrine. Shippo transformed into a bird and flew there quickly. As he got there he saw Inuyasha jump out of the well and grab Kagome. They were crying. Was this what he’d been waiting for he wondered as he sat on a tree branch and watched. That’s when he heard the words “I never want to live a minute without you in my life again, it was just too painful. I want to be your mate and never leave your side. Kagome say you’ll marry me.”
“Inuyasha not even time can keep you from me. Of course I’ll marry you.”
Shippo felt a new hope grow inside him as he lay in his bed that night. Knowing things where going the way they where suppose to he was finally at ease. And for the first time in a long time he slept soundly.
He still trained everyday, but there was a noticeable difference in him. Shippo started to enjoy life again.
A few nights later Shippo invited Rei over to the house to watch some kung fu movies. It was out of Shippo’s character to do such a thing, most nights he either trained or would sit in his room and think. Haruki was at work and Shippo thought it might be nice to spend some time with his sister. “It sure has been along time since we’ve done anything together.” He thought out loud as he picked up the phone and called her.
Rei had made them sushi for dinner.
“Wow, Rei I didn’t know you cooked. This is really good.”
“There is a lot about me that you don’t know.”
“What do you mean by that? You’re my sister of course I know a lot about you.”
“I’m not your…I mean you’ve spent all these years training. You never had time to get to really know me as we grew up so I was always just there. I understand why though so it’s ok.”
“I’m sorry. I know…”
Rei put her finger to Shippo’s lips stopping the words he was about to say. “I said its ok.” She gave him a side smile as she moved her hand and paused to look into his eyes. He looked back at her for what seemed to be a minute. She had such a sad look in her eyes he couldn’t turn away. Instead he did what came most natural. He leaned over slowly and kissed her tenderly.
“Rei…thank you for being so understanding. If it weren’t for you I might have given up on my self along time ago.”
“All I’ve ever wanted was to see you happy. Why wouldn’t I have helped?”
Shippo gave her a wide toothy smile “Lets go watch that movie before it gets too late.” He walked into the living room never seeing her touch her cheek where he had kissed her.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Inuyasha had been so happy Kagome agreed to marry him. That night they made the announcement to Kagome’s family and the next day they had their first wedding in the feudal era. Inuyasha pick out a last name and started on his paper work. There was so much to do before he could get married in this era. Inuyasha needed a job in order to support a family too.
“Kagome, why don’t we just stay in my time it would be much easier? There’s just too much for me to do in order to stay here.”
“Inuyasha stop being such a baby! If you don’t get your paper work done here I’ll always be considered single. That would only mean Hojo and other guys would want to marry me.”
“You’re mine and if…”
“Then stop complaining and do what you have to do here.” She cut him off with a amused smile.
When Inuyasha’s paper work came in his next step was to get a job. Inuyasha put on a red button up shirt and black slacks with a nice black hat. “I feel stupid, why can’t I just wear my own clothes?”
Kagome handed him a pair black shoes and some socks. “I think you look rather sexy if you ask me?” She licked her lips suggestively. Inuyasha wanted to rip her clothes off right there and make love to her, but in this time they weren’t married and Kagome’s mother would have a fit.
“Fine, I’ll wear this stupid outfit, if you promise to take it off of me when I get home.”
Kagome smiled wickedly. “Oh, that won’t be a problem. In fact I’ll do it with no hands.”
Inuyasha walked around the town looking for work. Everything was either to boring or he didn’t have the education to fill the job position. “There’s nothing out here I can or like to do.” As the words came out his mouth he spotted a sign on a window that said ‘HELP WANTED’. Inuyasha walked up to the window and peeped in. There was only one guy in there and it looked like he was fighting by himself. He watched the guy for a few moments ‘Wow, he’s pretty good’ he thought to himself. The guy was a middle aged tall Japanese man with dark brown hair and a lean body. “Well, here goes nothing” Inuyasha said a he opened the door and went in.
As Inuyasha approached, the man stopped and turned to look at him.
“Shippo…is that you!?!”
“Inuyasha” Shippo stood staring at Inuyasha.
“I didn’t recognize you in costume, but the moment I stepped foot in here I knew it was you. It’s good to see you here in this time.”
Shippo realized at this point in time he and Inuyasha hadn’t battle yet for Chiyoko. In fact, Chiyoko wasn’t even conceived yet. “It’s good to see you to!” Shippo transformed back into himself and without even thinking Shippo went to Inuyasha and gave him a hug.
“Shippo? Are you all right? Why are you crying?”
“I…I missed you so much Inuyasha. It’s been so long.”
Despite all that has happen and will happen Shippo always looked up to Inuyasha. Shippo had broken down like a little boy in tears. Of course Inuyasha had no idea why. Shippo struggled to pull himself together.
“So long; what happened?”
“I can’t tell you. I wouldn’t want to spoil the surprise.”
Inuyasha looked at Shippo noticing how much he had grown. Although Shippo was around 550 years old he looked to be in his early twenties. Shippo was as tall as Inuyasha was now and no longer had his fox legs. His hair was also cut short like most of the modern men. Inuyasha even noticed what good shape his body was in. “I guess living with that fox family really did you well. You look good Shippo.”
“Thanks Inuyasha. Oh, was there something that you needed?”
“Ah, I saw a sign that said ‘HELP WANTED’ and I thought I’d come and check it out. Who do I need to speck with?”
Shippo grinned and said the next word so proudly there was no questioning him “ME”.
“Oh, well then…give me a job.”
“Wow, you never told me you worked in this time.” Shippo said more to himself then to Inuyasha.
“Yeah, that’s probably because I work for you.”
Shippo hired Inuyasha as a trainer in his school right on the spot. However, Shippo had to lay down some rules. His last rule was the most important “No killing!”
“I know that, I’m not a complete idiot.”
After Inuyasha got his schedule he was about to leave when Shippo stopped him "Inuyasha I don't go by my real name in this school nor will you ever see me in this school without being transformed. I go by master Yoshi."
"Alright."
"And one more thing I don't want anyone to know I'm here...not even...Kagome."
"But...why?"
"When the time is right I'll tell you, until then you are the only one to know who I am. Please Inuyasha."
"Of course, Shippo."
Inuyasha went back to the shrine with mixed emotions. He was happy he was able to get a job and even more happy it was with Shippo. But what had happen that Shippo felt the need to cry when he saw him. And why out of all people Shippo didn't want Kagome to know that he was here.
Kagome was happy Inuyasha was working at the training school and Inuyasha had enjoyed it as well. Kagome continued going to school while Inuyasha worked; they both traveled through the well everyday. To Inuyasha it felt like time in this era seemed to go by too quickly, in just a few weeks Inuyasha and Kagome where married. At Inuyasha's request his boss master Yoshi was the best man.
After Kagome finished School she spent most of her time in the feudal era. It was mainly because she was pregnant. Inuyasha took the money he had saved up and bought a house right next to the shrine so that travel would be easy on both of them.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"I'm going to the hospital today Haruki. Would you like to come with me?" Shippo asked as he looked out his window.
"The hospital?"
"Yes, Chiyoko was born today." Shippo's heart was light as he spoke, the day was finally here. Inuyasha had invited him earlier that morning.
"Yeah, I can't wait to see her."
"Alright, let me call Rei and then we'll leave"
Rei met Shippo and Haruki at the entrance of the hospital. As they entered the maternity hall Shippo's heart started to beat faster, his knees became weak and he started to feel dizzy. "I can't do this" Shippo said and turned around to leave.
Haruki grabbed Shippo's arm "What's wrong?"
"I don't know, I just..."
"I know it has to be hard, after so long but don't worry we're here with you." Haruki's words were comforting and Shippo was able to make his way down the hall.
When Shippo reached the glass room where all the babies were, he spotted her at once. "She's just as perfect as I remember." Shippo's hand touched the glass in front of him as he watched her sleep from a distance.
Inuyasha rounded the corner with a wide smile. "I'm a father!" Haruki and Rei congratulated him but Shippo still hadn't moved. "Hey, Shippo would you like to hold her?"
"No, that's ok. I have to go. I have to fill in for you today so maybe next time. I'm real happy for you Inuyasha. I know you'll be a great dad." With that said Shippo hugged Inuyasha and left.
"Shippo, wait!" called Rei just as he got into his car. Shippo either didn't hear her or didn't care. He sped away as fast as he could. Rei had taken her own car and knew where he was going. Just like she had thought she would, she found him in his office. His head was in his hands and his shoulders were slumped over. It hurt Rei to see Shippo like this. Slowly she walked over to him and knelt down beside him. With a soft whisper she spoke to him "Shippo, try and be happy, you waited for this day for so long and it's finally here. Compared to all the time you've already waited these next fourteen years will go by quickly."
"Yeah, but Rei, this is different. In just a few days the relationship between me and Inuyasha will change again. I just got use to having him in my life again, and now... she's here and all I can do is watch from a far. The time might go by quicker but the wait will be much harder. Not only that, but right now my mate is a baby. What am I supposed to, I'm an adult youkai with needs?" tears continued to flow freely from his eyes.
Rei held Shippo close to her in comfort. "Shippo the day you made that vow to Chiyoko, Inuyasha wasn't the only one who heard it. Haruki and I heard you too. Although we didn't understand everything until we were older, we knew you would stay true to your word. Shippo you did more then became a great warrior, you became a great man with a heart any man would kill to have. I admire you for all that you've been through and I knew even if it hurts you, you will do what ever is necessary in order to keep your word. But if the day ever comes that it all becomes too much for you, and you feel you have to give up, I'm here for you." Rei raised her head a little and was face to face with Shippo. Taking her hand she gently wiped the tears away. Moving in closer then she had intended she paused before lightly kissing him on the lips. Lost to his pain Shippo didn't resist.
The kiss was like a dip in the lake on a hot summer day. The tension Shippo had held onto for so long disappeared. And what’s more, Shippo felt like a man. The last kiss he had was with Chiyoko, over five hundred years ago. Since then he learned to control his awakenings with more training. This time however Shippo let his emotions take over. He felt the animal in him wake up and before he could think his body was already acting. He broke off the kiss and picked Rei up off the floor placing her on his desk with him standing between her legs. He stared at her with fire in his eyes daring her to kiss him again.
She waited all her life for this moment and hoped she wasn't dreaming. Lavishly she kissed him again. She knew they wouldn't mate but she would settle for a passionate rut. Roughly Shippo rubbed his hands over her body while his tongue mingled with hers. Rei took her nails and slid them down the front of his shirt exposing his rock hard abs. She had seen them before but this time she would feel them against her body. In a haste her lips went from his mouth to the nape of his neck and then onto his bare chest. Her kisses were hard yet full with love. The taste of his body filled every fiber of her being as she slowly licked a trail from his belly button up to his ear. Taking his ear lobe into her mouth she sucked and nibbled on it eagerly.
He could smell the heat grow in her which only made his sexual awakening even stronger. Shippo tore her light yellow dress she was wearing off of her leaving her only in her underwear. There was nothing but lust flowing though his veins yet he still refused to be the one to kiss her. Grabbing Shippo's face she forcefully parted his lips with her tongue. He enjoyed her roughness and squeezed at her breast. With her free hand she untied his pants letting them fall to the floor. Sliding her hand into his boxers she took hold of his butt and pushed him closer to her. A growl escaped his throat and he felt the need to bite her.
He wanted her so badly. His body needed her. He didn't have to bite her, he could just take right there, after all she was willing. He could smell just how bad she wanted him. His growl became louder full with pure adulterated lust as his body gyrated against hers. Their panting became shallow and few between her kisses. The only thing in the way of his entry was two small pieces of clothing and his conscience. He couldn't just rut with her and leave. Not Rei of all people. If he was to rut with her he would stay with her. His lips wrapped around her neck and he positioned his teeth to mark her properly. Moaning her approval she brought her head back. He closed his eyes as his teeth tightened to pierce her flesh. Her blood boiled knowing after he marked her they would indeed be mated.
Shippo slowly removed his lips from the spot. "I love Chiyoko...I'm sorry I can't do this, any of this." Shippo rested his head on her shoulder "Can you ever find it in your heart to forgive me Rei?"
Rei tenderly rubbed his back in a comforting motion with her two hands. "Of course, if you can forgive me?"
"You have no reason to apologize. You acted on love...I...I gave into my animal instincts."
"And even still you would have marked me, giving up your claim on Chiyoko instead of just leaving me impure. That doesn’t sound like an animal to me. You’re a good man Shippo. And if anyone acted selfishly it was me, regardless of my feelings for you I should not have let it get as far as it did."
Shippo lifted his pants and handed her one of the schools uniforms to put on. "Rei, if you don't mind me asking, how long have you felt this way about me?" He turned around allowing her to dress.
"I don't know...to me you were never my brother. I guess as far back as I can remember I had feelings for you. I was so jealous of Chiyoko but at the same time I was happy for her. She really has a great man." Once Rei finished dressing she headed for the door.
"Rei, one last question… am I the reason you've never mated?"
Rei smiled sadly at Shippo "No, I just never found the right person" she lied and walked out the door.
Shippo still had some time before class started and decided he should work out to let off some steam. His mind ran through everything that had happened that day. The moment he had got the call from Inuyasha he was overwhelmed with joy. Between that time and going to the hospital somehow fear started to take over. Fear of losing Inuyasha as a friend again. Upon seeing Chiyoko his emotions changed again. This time he wasn’t sure what they were. Part of him felt the deep love he had always had for her while another part cursed himself for now being vowed to a baby.
Shippo was an adult youkai who now experienced his sexual awakenings at full strength. But he couldn’t look at Chiyoko in that way now, she was a baby and that would be disgusting. He knew it would be a long time before he could view her as someone he wanted to be mated to.
When Rei had walked in earlier he had been thinking about that very thing. Just thinking about Rei now made Shippo have to put in twice the effort into his training. He had never thought of Haruki and Rei as his sibling but best friends. Growing up Shippo had started to spend less time with Rei, and when ever he did, he made sure Haruki was with them. Even though Shippo loved Chiyoko, five hundred years was a long time to wait, especially for a growing male youkai. It didn’t help that Rei treated him with such love and kindness; in addition he knew she harbored feelings for him beyond friendship. As time went by she even became more and more beautiful. She was even more beautiful then her mother had been. He pictured Rei as she sat on his desk nearly naked. Her long straight auburn hair, dark green eyes, and natural tanned color on her skin were enchanting. Rei’s body was muscular and strong yet still smooth and feminine. Even fully clothed her bust line was something to gawk at.
There had been so many times he had wanted to taste her, mainly when he knew she was in heat. But Shippo knew even though he loved her he wasn’t in love with her and could never just take advantage of her to satisfy his urges. On top of that Shippo wanted to stay pure for Chiyoko. To him giving into another woman’s body would be the same as dishonoring his vow to her.
Shippo made up his mind, baby or no baby, his vow was to protect Chiyoko and that is what he would do. For the time being he would dismiss the fact that he had wanted her as a mate. Once she came of age he knew he would still want her in that way, but for now it was just too weird.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Shippo says "Please review if you want more. You know you want it!"