Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this small tale... especially for the one who has been busy. A grateful bow is made to Hayao Miyazaki for his many wonderful films, especially Spirited Away.


Chapter 28: Dearly Beloved

Before Haku could claim his bride, a home had to be readied. On a whim, he appealed to the river god for suggestions, and he was richly rewarded for his consideration. The ancient deity directed him to a place of surprising beauty. Sun and shadow dappled the ferns, and the air was sweet with the scent of lilies. Somehow, he knew Chihiro would love it, so Haku used all the means and magic at his disposal to create a haven for his bride.


On the last full day before his promised return, Haku penned a short message to Chihiro, then laced it with magic. The paper bird fluttered out the window, bearing simple instructions—where and when. Tomorrow's sunset cannot come soon enough.


The day, the hour, the moment finally first, he couldn't see her, only the crowd of spirits that had gathered along the shore to bear witness. But then, the old fisherman shifted his grip on the parasol, and it tipped back to reveal Chihiro. As soon as Haku's gaze found hers, he knew. All the work, all the waiting—they were worth it.

Sunset caressed the curve of her cheek, warming the gold of her skin and adding luster to the smooth sweep of her hair. Her people had adorned her splendidly, and though he was pleased to see her in such finery, it was Chihiro's happiness that snared him. A tiny quirk. A soft dimple. The almost secretive smile reminded him what it was like to touch those lips, and the memory of those gentle kisses sent a thrill through his body, making pristine white fur stand on end. Wanting nothing more than to get closer to the woman who held his heart, Haku stepped forward, crossing the boundary between sea and sand, beast and man.


End Note: This chapter was written for the Live Journal community fanfic(underscore)bakeoff and their Secret Ingredient for September 2010—Surprise. Posted on September 23, 2010. 300 words.