Disclaimer: Fushigi Yuugi and company don't belong to me. *tragic sigh*

Author's note: I must admit, my knowledge of Fushigi Yuugi doesn't extend past the English manga Vol. 5 (right after evil Tamahome beats up Tasuki) and a few…umm…*cough* spoilers. ::guilty:: I know that Hotohori dies, but I don't know how, so this is just my little take on his death. From Hotohori's POV.

Here Forever

As I lay here dying

I look up and see your face

Your eyes are full of tears

My heart reaches out, and I whisper

"I'll be here forever

Always by your side

Even if you can't see me

Don't ever lose hope"

My time is almost through

You hold my hand, as if to keep me here

A sharp pang inside me

Despite the pain, I look at you and smile

"I'll be here forever

Always by your side

Protecting you through all

I will never leave"

The moment has come

I can feel myself slipping away

You call to me, but I cannot answer

And then I am gone