Disclaimer: I don't own Princess Mononoke—not even the DVD! (That's my roommate's) All property belongs to Miyazaki (is that how you spell it?)

Fall's Return

Fall has returned to the forest, the time of year I always expect to see him crossing the hills and entering the forest.

Right as the heat gives way to cool breezes and the first leaves turn their colors, I will see him on his red elk. He always arrives with a smile on his handsome face, just for me.

He greets my brothers with a shout, but me with a smile and embrace after dismounting Yakuul. He's warm and smells nice. His breath is hot as he whispers "Hello" in my ear. My face always gets hot too, much to my dismay and his delight.

He leaves when the leaves are all gone and the wind turns cold. Before the first frost, he returns to the human settlement. And then, I miss him.

I always do.

I spend my winter remembering our times together and summer's delight is the prospect of his return.

Fall has returned to the forest, and here he is. "Hello" he whispers in my ear as he hugs me.

"Hello." I whisper back, "I missed you."

"I missed you too."

"Welcome" I took his hand and led him into our camp.

a/n: I just recently saw this film, and I have to say, it weirded me out a bit! Like so many, this story refers to the end when Ashitaka says he's going to visit. So, in my version, he gets around to the forest about once a year.

Fall is a bad time, I know, with all the preparing for winter that goes on, but I tried the other seasons in my mind, but it just wasn't right. It was one of those 'this is how it is' things that sometimes goes with stories.

The end of this story really bugs me though. Any suggestions?