Hey everybody sorry for the long update time…good old writers block and a busy life can really cut down on writing time. Well here it is at least!!

Aishiteru-I Love You

Chapter 8

Water

Sumiko approached Kiku with caution. She was still sitting at the base of the tree and appeared to be lost in her thoughts. "Have you made your decision?"

"I have." Kiku turned to look at her surrogate mother. "The elder told me about the youkai." She patted the ground next to her and Sumiko took the hint. For a moment the two of them sat in silence. "You never told me that you loved a youkai."

"It happened a very long time ago. I did not see the need to bring up ancient history besides I never thought a youkai would come and want you to leave with him." She fiddled with her hands and pulled a blade of grass to keep herself busy.

"Indeed he is a youkai but Sumiko, you know as well as I that I have never belonged in the village. I have even been a burden to you at times." Kiku watched as Sumiko acted uncomfortable. "I want to find my home and if Lord Sesshomaru will help me then I will follow him. You know I am far too independent for my own good. If I don't feel free where he takes me I shall leave and find my home elsewhere but this is just my first step."

"I understand, my dear Kiku, I would miss you far too much." She pulled Kiku into an embrace and stroked her head. "I shall accompany you."

"You will!?" Kiku pulled back and looked at her. "Are you sure you would be willing to give up your life in the village?"

"What life in the village?" Sumiko pushed back Kiku's hair. "You are my life and as my life I shall follow you where your life leads you. I will watch over you on your journeys until you decide you wish me for me to no longer follow." She started to stand back up. "I will leave you now to go and gather our things. Enjoy the tranquility of the river while you can. Who knows what awaits us in the demon lord's lands."

"Thank you, Sumiko." Kiku watched her 'mother' walk away. She then looked back towards the river and watched as the water rushed by. She lost herself to the constant change and the peace that washed over her. Without even thinking about it she inched her way right next to the river's edge and dipped her feet into the water. She was normally never allowed this close to the water for fear of being washed away but right now she didn't care. "It feels good." She smiled and continued to move her feet around, enjoying the feeling of the water passing by.

"Be careful." A voice spoke from behind her and she jumped, almost falling into the water. Kiku turned to face the voice and looked up to see Lord Sesshomaru. "Wouldn't want you to fall in."

Hey thanks for reading…I will do my best to not let update times get as long next time. :) Please Review and let me know what you think!

Lady Elanya