Hello.
I'm not in a very good mood... For several reasons, so please don't be too angry if the chapter is too short/too long/too depressing/too cheery...
Authors' Notes: ... It was my b-day this Monday. Sigh. One of the worst things ever.
Disclaimer- Hn. Who needs the half-wit hanyou anyway. I'm glad I don't own him.
IMPORTANT! Did you guys hear that the last of 'Inuyasha' would be out by.... probably October! Sorry, I had to say it. 'InuYasha' is leaving us. Can you imagine? Yes. No more 'InuYasha'.
Yes. No more Hakudoshi. Kagura. Shippou. Rin. Jacken. This is unfair. Kikyou is bound to return sometime... I hope soon. If she doesn't, I'll hunt down Rumiko and slaughter her. A slow and painful death... (Probably using the 'horriblest' method ever. I'll let her watch different anime, and stop them at the most exciting moment. That's bound to drive her into her grave.)
No.... Stupid, lazy Rumiko! And she's fat! Her picture is awful... Er... o.0'
Umm... I think... We... Uh... On with the... Story.... I think I'm starting to go mad. Well. Madder than before.
-Chapter 11-
The dark crimson silk trailed upon the polished wood, reflecting in it as Sesshoumaru moved swiftly along the corridor. The toad will pay.
He shall be roasted alive, fed to the koi in his pond. No wait. Sesshoumaru stopped, rubbing his temple. If he feeds his green, stinky retainer to the fish, the pond koi will most likely poison themselves and die. No.
He resumed his stoic stride towards the castle-keepers room. He couldn't have dead koi in his pond. As far as he was concerned, after a small, childhood experiment he wasn't particularly fond of, he knew that decaying flesh gave off most... Unpleasant odors.
Hmm... Perhaps he should lock the old toad in with the scatterbrained miko... An evil smirk was close to appearing on his ashen lips when one of the closest doors slid open, revealing a slightly anemic Orito. "My Lord." he bowed hastily. "I trust you are well."
"Rise, Orito."
Orito looked up at his master, whose narrowed, amber eyes were surveying him coldly. Orito gulped nervously. "My Lord, is there... something wrong?" Sesshoumaru arched one perfectly groomed eyebrow. "I don't know, Orito. Perhaps you should tell me. I sense guilt."
A bloodcurdling shiver ran up the dragons' spine, causing him to twinge at the lurid memories or the ghoul that took the appearance of his master. "My Lord, I assure you there is nothing wrong!" Orito bowed quickly, clenching his jaws. It was rather too obvious that the master was not... In the best mood- and damn, HE had to be the one to meet the Taiyoukais blustery.
Sesshoumaru looked at his servant in front of him, his breath slightly rasping and uneven... But... He curled his lip. He wasn't afraid.
What foolish ignorance.
He looked down at the dragons pale neck, exposed and defenseless....
A malicious glint appeared in his eyes for a moment; no one was scared of him anymore- even the toad was foolish enough to dare and touch his hair.
He cracked his claws loudly and grinned as he smelled the sudden fear radiating from the dragon.
"What do you think you're doing, lying to me, you lily-livered wench?" he hissed.
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"KOUGA!!! What do you think you're DOING?!" Kagome shrieked and hit the wolf-prince on the head. "Kagome..." Kouga pulled Kagome off the phlegmatic youkai. Small shinidamachuu circled his head as he carried Kagome to a small, grassy clearing. "Put-" * Thwack * "Me-" * Thwack * "DOWN!!!" * Thwack-thwack-thwack *
"But you'll get a cold this way!" Kouga protested as he untied her obi. Kagome scratched him on the tanned face. "Ow!" He cried and clamped a hand to the small gash on his cheek. "What was that for?" Kagome huffed and started tying her obi, with a badly concealed look of triumph on her face. "That serves you right. And stay away from me. Pervert."
Kougas mouth dropped open. Surely, he had his feelings for the girl, and wouldn't mind seeing her un... Wait. He shook his head. She's wrong; he was only trying to help! Without a second word, he pinned her to the ground and pulled the hakama, kimono and the white undergarment off leaving Kagome in her panties only.(1)
Kagome writhed and squealed. "Take-your-hands-off me!!!" She cried, tears of embarrassment flowing down her cheeks.
"There, now that's bett- Oumph!" Kouga doubled over as Kagome kicked him in the knee. "Youch...." He howled. "What was THAT for?" Kagome sat up and hugged her knees to her chest, blushing furiously.
"You idiot!" She cried. Kouga frowned and walked over to a nearby tree. "Kagome, you'll get sick if you stay in these wet clothes." He said throwing the clothes over a branch. "I thought that as a girl you should be aware of that."
Kagome pursed her lips and turned away; having measured the height at which he hang her clothes and realized that there's no way she will be able to reach them.
"Anone..." Kouga sat down behind her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders, causing her to shiver at the pleasant warmth on her cold and clammy skin. "Kouga..." She was about to protest when he wrapped his tail around her legs and pulled her closer.
"Don't worry Kagome. I'll protect you..." The wolf whispered and put his chin on her head, sighing. "Ano..." Kagome started, reaching out and touching the wolfs tail; but instead of pushing it off her legs as intended, she found herself stroking the soft, brown fur.
Kouga growled lowly in his chest and rubbed his chin on her hair, inhaling her sweet scent. Kagome giggled and pulled on the tail slightly. Kouga found himself going helplessly floppy and purred all the louder. Kagome smirked evilly and turned around slightly.
'Hmm... Every hero has his Achilles' heel...'
Kouga opened his eyes at her movements and raised an eyebrow. "Kagome?.. Wha?" Kagome giggled slightly less innocently now. "Close your eyes, wolf boy." She whispered.
Kouga obliged, wondering what the girl had up her sleeve. "Ka-?" "Shh!" Kagome pressed a finger to his lips and turned around, her knees now pushing against his thighs and her chest pressed into his. Kouga couldn't suppress a blush at such closeness.
Kagome slowly snaked her hands around the princes' stomach and giggled once again. Disturbing images flashed through Kougas mind and he licked his lips nervously as he felt her face drawing closer to his... He slowly parted his lips, awaiting hers... when Kagomes fingers started playing along his ribs and stomach, causing him to gasp and open his eyes. "Wha...?!"
A heart felt laughter streamed across the small meadow, mingling with the stray sunrays as and disturbing the butterflies that flittered away nervously.
Kouga tried to push the girls hands away, "Kagome, wait! I demand you- Ugh!" Kougas face was now a curious shade of purple. "Now, isn't it fun, Kouga- kun?" "Kagome, stop! It's not... Grrr..." His leg twitched slightly and started thumping against the grass, trampling it down and sending Kagome into another fit of giggles.
"Oh, me gosh..." She whimpered, tears running down her flustered cheeks. "Oh, Kouga, you're..." She ran her fingers over his lean stomach, sending the dog princes' leg twitching in doggy ecstasy...
"Kagome, please I ARGH!!" Kagome was now a bright magenta herself with laughter. "Kagome PLEASE!!!"
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"My lord, please!" Orito cried, falling onto his knees. "I swear I'm not omitting anything from you!" Oritos heart thumped against his ribcage; has the lord gone mad? There were his moments when the lord couldn't be called completely sane, like bringing in the little human whelp, but this... Was a little too much.
"You lowly creature..." The Inutaisho hissed looking at his retainer through narrowed eyes. Oritos heart twinged.
He had never been able to call the stoic youkai his friend, but he was never an enemy- and Orito respected and honored him throughout his days. Images of him playing with the young master flashed through his head- and he couldn't suppress a small smile as he remembered the little lord run around the castle, his tail resembling a bottle-brush, his little fangs bared- chasing the guards...
Sesshoumaru blinked. What the... Seconds ago the youkai was terrified; yet now... He frowned, there seemed to be a bereaving happiness mingled with pain radiating from him as he kneeled on the wooden floor, his bleached face reflecting on the floors shiny surface.
Making a sound that strangely resembled Inuyashas' 'keh' Sesshoumaru pivoted on his heel and strode away- leaving a bewildered Orito stare at the floor disconcertedly.
Orito sighed and got up slowly; he rubbed his throbbing temples and tossed his black mass of hair behind him virally. Will there EVER be any peace in this place? 'Do you really want to know?..'
'.... No ... '
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"NO!"
Sango tugged on the algid chains that gripped her wrists, ignoring the hot blood that trickled down her arm and filled the air with it's metallic scent.
Her eyes blazed and she kept pulling and pulling, all the while glaring at Kagura, who sat in front of her. Kagura sighed and frowned. "Taijia, stop it." Sango hissed like a cat and lunged forward, only to be thrown back against the wall as the chains ended, stopping her a hairs breadth from Kagura, who didn't as much as blinked.
Sango slumped down and looked at the stone floor, tugging on the chains rhythmically; her wrists were covered in old, dried blood, with fresh, sticky one on top. The skin beneath it was raw, swollen and bruised from Sangos multitude tugs and pulls.
Kagura got up and shivered, the white, wet mist obscuring her feet; she dusted her kimono and walked up to Sango. "Stop it." She said indifferently. Sango lunged forward again, but Kagura hit her on her head with her folded fan quickly; Kagura watched as the demon hunter slumped against her legs. She bent down and leaned Sango against the wall carefully.
Her chest rose and fell as a heavy sigh left it. She sat down on the floor across the unconscious girl and hugged her knees to her chest, desperate to keep as much warmth as she could.
Kaguras' breath escaped her lips in tiny wisps of vapor. 'Gods, how much I want the bastard dead...' She thought grimly- and clutched at her chest, falling forwards on her face. 'Kagura... I heard that...' Kagura got up shakily, wiping the blood from her lips with one hand and clutching at her chest with the other. 'Oh, I'm sure you did.' She thought back icily. 'Only you've made a mistake. I want Inuyasha dead!'
Kagura could almost see her masters pallid lips curl into a lewd smirk, causing her even more pain. 'Of course I did Kagura. Forgive me.' He drawled. 'But you know... Even the best of us can make mistakes...' And with a final twist, he let go.
The poor youkai sniffed and clamped her hands over her face, determined to keep the invading senses and tears at bay. She sobbed and fell on the floor, her forearms under her forehead; letting hot tears fall to the stone, as cold and impenetrable as her masters' heart. If he had one...
"Kagura." The girl looked up at the owner of the voice. "What is it, brat?" She asked grimly, glaring at the light purple haired kid in front of her. He looked at her, then back at the demon exterminator.
"Stay here and guard her." Hakudoshi said quietly. "What do you think I'm doing, you kozou!" The boy ignored her comments and walked away, his little form obscured by the thick mist that hovered in the cave.
Kagura watched grimly as the huge, fire horse joined the little boy.
With a sigh, she settled back down on the stone floor that she managed to warm up a bit. 'I wonder why Naraku wont ever let me see him- why is he hiding, and who is the stranger whose aura I can fee- Arrgh!'
'Mind your own business, woman.'
Kagura narrowed her eyes angrily, not only did he hold her heart, but she couldn't even THINK what she wanted! She turned onto her back and rubbed her chest tentatively. For some reason it didn't hurt half as bad as before... Maybe he's getting weaker... Or... Her crimson eyes lit up happily. She's getting stronger... Perhaps... She has a chance... She smiled. Perhaps...
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Miroku walked silently along the quiet rows of flowers, with nothing to disturb the perfect drowsiness except for the soft humming of the bees.
A shuddering sigh left his chest as he stopped by a small lake filled with koi of all shapes, sizes and coloring. He leaned on the wooden railings and looked at his palm absentmindedly. He still didn't get used to it- the almost absent Kazana that marred his skin. The tunnel was almost gone, only a small hole was left- but it, too kept growing.
Miroku clenched his hand into a fist and looked on the colorful fish swarming under him, awaiting a treat, gaping at the distressed houshi. Miroku closed his eyes- not only did Sango go missing, but Kagome left, all alone...
Shippou looked at the distressed monk sadly, a small frown crossing his brow. "Miroku, where is Kagome?" He asked, tugging the monk on a lock of hair. "And Sango?" he tugged harder. "Kirara?"
Miroku squeezed his eyes shut, "Of course, Shippou, they'll be fine." He grit out, gripping the red wood so hard that his nails dug into it. Shippou tugged on his hair again.
"Miroku?" The monk clenched his jaw. "What is it, Shippou-chan?" The little kit repositioned himself on Mirokus head. "Why not go find Sango- chan by oursefs?" "Ourselves?" Miroku chuckled and ruffled the kitsunes soft hair. "Yeah..." He rubbed his chin with his thumb and forefinger in mock thoughtfulness.
"Yup." He pulled the giggling kit of his head and tickled him. "Together we will save Sango!" And with that said, Miroku headed for the gates, trying to suppress the uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach. "Where do you think she is?" Shippou asked as they exited the Taihen palace and were slowly walking through the twilight forest.
Miroku stopped. "Good point, Shippou-chan." The little kitsune banged his head on the ground with a groan.
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Inuyasha rushed through the palace, sniffing all around and causing the passing by demons to sweatdrop at his behavior. "Chikushou..." He muttered, picking up the owner of the given name. "Kikyou!" He growled as he jumped out into a balcony, where Kikyou was sitting; watching the scenery. "Anone... I thought I told you to stay in the village!" He growled.
Without turning to the intruder, Kikyou lifted an eyebrow. "Inuyasha." She said in a voice that didn't suggest anything better than an 'osuwari'. "Since when is it that I am to submit to your witless orders?" She asked icily. Inuyasha gulped. "You are not to order me around like a possession." Kikyou turned to him and regarded him with half-closed, deep eyes. "Inuyasha. Do you love me?" She asked, her eyes mere slits, "Or do you want me around for support?" her eyes glistened with tears; Inuyasha opened his mouth to reply, but instead rushed forwards and hugged the miko, stroking her hair. Kikyou pulled away angrily. "Now I'm sure." She pushed him away. "You think that a hug will be enough for me, don't you?" Inuyasha flattened his ears to his skull, gaping at her like a fish out of the water, not knowing what to say.
"All you do is run around, shouting and waving your stupid sword around." She whispered, a tear running down her cheek. "You never care to stop and think about me. You're either angry with your brother, or, or moping about the girl..."
"But Kikyou! I do need you! Stay!" Inuyasha cried desperately, stepping forwards. Kikyou smiled grimly. "Need."
She lifted her hand gracefully and a Shinidama Chuu descended, snaking itself around her torso. Kikyous brown eyes closed tiredly as a few more of the soul stealing youkai joined the first one and lifted her up into the air. "Wait! Don't go! I love you! Stay!" Inuyasha cried as she disappeared into the sunset sky.
"Chikushou!!!" He roared and slammed his fists into the wooden floor, crushing it. "Hanyou. You will refrain from demolishing my possessions." Said a calm voice behind him.
"Go away." Inuyasha growled. "No." Sesshoumaru replied simply. "I wont. This is MY castle you're destroying." He said in a low, slightly growling voice. "Apart from entertaining my guards with your love-life drama." "She left... I said I love her, what else does she need?!" Inuyasha whispered.
Sesshoumaru looked at his pitiful relative. "Hn. It seems that your miko is by far wiser than you are." He said. "But I'm not saying she's wise." Inuyasha flexed his claws. "It seems that it's not love that you have for her."
Sesshoumaru curled his lip. "But an obsession. Your own, selfish fantasy." "She is your woman. Though I really don't understand why she even tolerates your infinite stupidity. You are the one to know what she wants, you are the one to * protect * her..." He almost whispered, emphasizing the word. "Yet it seems you cant even do that."
Inuyashas eyes widened. "I will await your groveling in my room when you are back to your..." Sesshoumaru smirked. "Normal self."
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--- 'I can't believe Father left him that sword.' Sesshoumaru thought grimly. 'I can't believe he neglects it, tossing it around so haphazardly. It shames him, were we on better terms, I would have lectured him severely.'
But then... How can the half-breed know what shame is, anyway?
He was not the one who tried to save his mother.
He was not the one who pledged undying allegiance to his father.
He was not the one who tried to keep his fathers honor.
He was the one who spoiled it all.
He has no right.
Sesshoumarus hand closed over the Toukijin in a death grip. 'Damn. My temper is getting the better of me. Father would have been displeased.' Sesshoumaru closed his eyes.
'Father was never as brazen as I, he always acted carefully...'
Sesshoumaru sighed and leaned against the wall of his study, desperately trying to come down.
'Damn.' How he wished he was here...
His eyes started to sting, and he had the nasty feeling he might be crying again. The shame is overwhelming. He contemplated gouging out the offending tears before they could fall— He could always regenerate.
Sesshoumaru growled and collapsed on the cool table in front of him, rubbing his aching temple against its cool surface. Why him?
Why not... Somebody else?
Is there * any* meaning to his life? He sighed and closed his eyes, pushing back the memory of his mother. Every one he cared for, or considered valuable to him-left him.
The door burst open and Rin rushed in, plopping herself on his lap cheerfully. "Sesshoumaru-sama!"
Well... Maybe not everyone... He snaked his arm around the girls small body, hugging her to his chest. "Sesshoumaru-sama?" "Sleep. Rin." The girl blinked. It was still early morning... Ah... And with a sigh she settled down against him.
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Kagome opened her eyes and looked at her 'pillow'... Which happened to be Kougas chest.
Her eyes widened. What the... But then everything came back to her; 'Oh, so we must've fallen asleep after that 'tickling séance''... She thought and started getting up slowly, careful not to wake the sleeping prince. She froze as she felt an arm on her waist. Gods! How could she be so careless?
She uncoiled it and placed it on his stomach gently, smiling as the boy mumbled in his sleep.
With a sigh, she walked up to the make-shift washing line and jumped up to reach her clothes.
On the third time, she succeeded.
Having put on her clothes, she quietly walked up to Ah-Un and mounted him. "Farewell, Kouga!"
She whispered and pressed Ah-Uns' sides, sending him trotting along a barely visible path, his scales gleaming in an occasional yellow sunlight that streamed down through the canopy.
Her old melancholy got hold of her heart again as she moved away from the wolf prince, leaving him behind along with that short moment of joy and warmth...
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Kagome rode out onto a grassy plain, the huge, red sun hung over the distant, gloomy mountains. She strained her senses to pick up out the direction from which the evil aura radiated most; then a huge shadow covered her completely- causing her to look up at it's source. "Hachiemon!" She cried in surprise.
Kagomes mouth dropped open as Miroku looked down over the side of his tanuki, followed by Shippou. "Shippou-chan!" She cried happily, almost jumping up and down on the 'pack-youkai' at the sight of her adopted kit.
* * * * Well, that's it! Alex-chan, as requested, this chapter is longer. Never mind that it is only by one page. Sigh.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * Authors Notes: (1) It was considered absolutely normal for women to leave their chest exposed; of course, not in the streets, but it was nothing out of the ordinary for a woman to breastfeed her baby out in public. When the men and women bathed together, the towels were used to cover the 'bottom necessities' only. Breasts were not considered to be sexy... Women only started covering themselves in late eighties, when the 'western wave' reached Japan. And since 'Inuyasha' is taking place in about... ! 1500-1600 (I suck at dates...) Kouga wouldn't be aware of Kagomes embarrassment or rage.
Vocab: Kozou: Brat. Sesshoumaru calls Kohaku by this ... Name?
Gah, there are too many clues. It was a website.
QUOTE: Q. Is it true that Sunrise announces end of Inuyasha anime this September? A. Either SUNRISE nor Yomiuri TV has not yet announced it officially, but one of the main animators related to InuYasha also wrote on the 30th of April that he or she got the scenario of the last but one episode , so that it is true that Anime InuYasha ends this September. The old answer on the 29th The Taihen denied this information once on the 22nd of April. But, According to Ryutekirakuen that is the most reliable Japanese fan site, indeed, SUNRISE did not announce such a statement, it sounds plausible that the anime InuYasha ends in September. Ryutekirakuen's webmistress (she is also a manga artist and has extensive information network among animators) wrote on the front page of her site on the 29th that she confirmed this information from reliable sources. The webmaster has not yet believed it completely because of no official announcement. However, almost all the Japanese fans have been convinced of it firmly on the basis of her excellent capacity for gathering information.
This message was anonymously posted to a Japanese BBS on the 20th of April. According to the message, when the person who posted the message went to an information session for job seekers held by SUNRISE this day, he or she heard this information from SUNRISE's recruiters and animators. Indeed, it is confirmed that the information session was held this day, but the webmaster and many other people have questioned the credibility of the situation described in the message because it is hardly possible that the recruiters said the confidential matters to the loose-tongued job seekers. Additionally, the movie 4 was officially announced to come out this December, which generally means that the TV station and its producer decided to air the anime until at least March of 2005 because lineups of Japanese prime-time programs are changed every half year, that is, in October and in April.
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Reviewers... ;_;
Sweet Fairy Jazz: Thanks so much 'Sweet Fairy'! Kouga? Mess up? Ne-ver..
Kouga is the best-behaved dude around. Isn't he?.. Glad joo approve of Kag-chan dressing up as a boy and all. Don't worry. Kouga 'wont' mess anything up. Winks.
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Sesshomarufan17: Glad you did. I'll try.
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Liz-chanloverofAnime: I update fast?! Wow. Thanks. I thought I was the laz... Mean busiest bum ever... What stories 'DO' you read?! Glad you got the 'humorish' part where Kouga was being a hero. Thanks for the review!
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Waizu Yoru Ame Otome: Ok... I know Sakura's the main heroine in Card Captor SAKURA. Sigh. Chibi I am then. Sigh. Right, I never demanded long reviews, so s'ok. Yup. You should've heard her squeal at pix of Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha. I'm just glad she doesn't make me draw that stuff... All the time. Hai, hai. You're not scatterbrained. Wakkatte, wakkatte... Gomen. Didn't mean it. I'm sure you're smart and collected.
Thank you for the review, I'll mail joo as fast as I can.
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Yamiyumetenshi: Lol. Yup. Maaannyyy people disagree on the language part. I guess I'll have to –try- and stop using it. Pity I can't write in Japanese here.
You liked the 'sniffing kimono' part? =P I did, happy you shared it with moi. Have you... Well, by any chance have seen 'Golden Boy'? It's just that your phrase reminded me of it... Ah... Lessons... I love them. Well. Not the school ones mind!
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ROW: I didn't know I did a great job. But if joo think so... Thanks! I'll try and update sooner.
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Lauren: yes... I do. My chapter seven (I think) was twenty-five pages, and this one is only... fourteen. Me very happy you like. Me speak no England. So you think it's ok in length? Good. Me very happy.
'Kay, I'll update soon! (Crossed fingers behind back have already turned into one from their usual position...) Sigh. I'm so la... I have so much work to do. ^_^'''
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SkyBlueSunShine: Do so. Writing down helps to memorise things. I watch Inuyasha in Japanese. Even if I wasn't, I wouldn't make poor Kaede say stuff like that. I think she's cool. Chibi... Hmm... That's a task. 'Chibified' means turned into a chibi. Sometimes they are called SDs (Super Deformed) Sigh. I like the chibi better.
It's NOT a small child-common misconception. It's a CHIBI. Sesshoumaru Chibified looks kinda weird MOST of the time, but I have one picture that's rather cool. I was looking for your address to send you a letter there, maybe accompanied by pix, but couldn't find it anywhere! I did come across your website. Get off your lazy bum and finish it! It's good! And my favorite part was when I clicked on that walking, kawai girl and was told to use my left click. * Grumbles * Beep. That was NOT fair!
Keh. Do send me the song, I'll really appreciate it, I'll do my best to translate it. But do it by snail-mail, Onegai.
Ah, jaa matte! Take care.
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Black-Fire Eclipse: Sigh. Mums are mums. I always call mine Mummy. (I hardly refrain from adding the 'Returns' part...) Ah, whatever. Genki desu ne... See, the Nightmare Science Fair is over, I'll update faster now. Here joo go.
Sayonara.
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WinterBlossom/Yuki*Sakura: Yup. Sess/Kag. Thank joo for the comp! (liment...) As you command... Here's the update!
I'm not in a very good mood... For several reasons, so please don't be too angry if the chapter is too short/too long/too depressing/too cheery...
Authors' Notes: ... It was my b-day this Monday. Sigh. One of the worst things ever.
Disclaimer- Hn. Who needs the half-wit hanyou anyway. I'm glad I don't own him.
IMPORTANT! Did you guys hear that the last of 'Inuyasha' would be out by.... probably October! Sorry, I had to say it. 'InuYasha' is leaving us. Can you imagine? Yes. No more 'InuYasha'.
Yes. No more Hakudoshi. Kagura. Shippou. Rin. Jacken. This is unfair. Kikyou is bound to return sometime... I hope soon. If she doesn't, I'll hunt down Rumiko and slaughter her. A slow and painful death... (Probably using the 'horriblest' method ever. I'll let her watch different anime, and stop them at the most exciting moment. That's bound to drive her into her grave.)
No.... Stupid, lazy Rumiko! And she's fat! Her picture is awful... Er... o.0'
Umm... I think... We... Uh... On with the... Story.... I think I'm starting to go mad. Well. Madder than before.
-Chapter 11-
The dark crimson silk trailed upon the polished wood, reflecting in it as Sesshoumaru moved swiftly along the corridor. The toad will pay.
He shall be roasted alive, fed to the koi in his pond. No wait. Sesshoumaru stopped, rubbing his temple. If he feeds his green, stinky retainer to the fish, the pond koi will most likely poison themselves and die. No.
He resumed his stoic stride towards the castle-keepers room. He couldn't have dead koi in his pond. As far as he was concerned, after a small, childhood experiment he wasn't particularly fond of, he knew that decaying flesh gave off most... Unpleasant odors.
Hmm... Perhaps he should lock the old toad in with the scatterbrained miko... An evil smirk was close to appearing on his ashen lips when one of the closest doors slid open, revealing a slightly anemic Orito. "My Lord." he bowed hastily. "I trust you are well."
"Rise, Orito."
Orito looked up at his master, whose narrowed, amber eyes were surveying him coldly. Orito gulped nervously. "My Lord, is there... something wrong?" Sesshoumaru arched one perfectly groomed eyebrow. "I don't know, Orito. Perhaps you should tell me. I sense guilt."
A bloodcurdling shiver ran up the dragons' spine, causing him to twinge at the lurid memories or the ghoul that took the appearance of his master. "My Lord, I assure you there is nothing wrong!" Orito bowed quickly, clenching his jaws. It was rather too obvious that the master was not... In the best mood- and damn, HE had to be the one to meet the Taiyoukais blustery.
Sesshoumaru looked at his servant in front of him, his breath slightly rasping and uneven... But... He curled his lip. He wasn't afraid.
What foolish ignorance.
He looked down at the dragons pale neck, exposed and defenseless....
A malicious glint appeared in his eyes for a moment; no one was scared of him anymore- even the toad was foolish enough to dare and touch his hair.
He cracked his claws loudly and grinned as he smelled the sudden fear radiating from the dragon.
"What do you think you're doing, lying to me, you lily-livered wench?" he hissed.
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"KOUGA!!! What do you think you're DOING?!" Kagome shrieked and hit the wolf-prince on the head. "Kagome..." Kouga pulled Kagome off the phlegmatic youkai. Small shinidamachuu circled his head as he carried Kagome to a small, grassy clearing. "Put-" * Thwack * "Me-" * Thwack * "DOWN!!!" * Thwack-thwack-thwack *
"But you'll get a cold this way!" Kouga protested as he untied her obi. Kagome scratched him on the tanned face. "Ow!" He cried and clamped a hand to the small gash on his cheek. "What was that for?" Kagome huffed and started tying her obi, with a badly concealed look of triumph on her face. "That serves you right. And stay away from me. Pervert."
Kougas mouth dropped open. Surely, he had his feelings for the girl, and wouldn't mind seeing her un... Wait. He shook his head. She's wrong; he was only trying to help! Without a second word, he pinned her to the ground and pulled the hakama, kimono and the white undergarment off leaving Kagome in her panties only.(1)
Kagome writhed and squealed. "Take-your-hands-off me!!!" She cried, tears of embarrassment flowing down her cheeks.
"There, now that's bett- Oumph!" Kouga doubled over as Kagome kicked him in the knee. "Youch...." He howled. "What was THAT for?" Kagome sat up and hugged her knees to her chest, blushing furiously.
"You idiot!" She cried. Kouga frowned and walked over to a nearby tree. "Kagome, you'll get sick if you stay in these wet clothes." He said throwing the clothes over a branch. "I thought that as a girl you should be aware of that."
Kagome pursed her lips and turned away; having measured the height at which he hang her clothes and realized that there's no way she will be able to reach them.
"Anone..." Kouga sat down behind her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders, causing her to shiver at the pleasant warmth on her cold and clammy skin. "Kouga..." She was about to protest when he wrapped his tail around her legs and pulled her closer.
"Don't worry Kagome. I'll protect you..." The wolf whispered and put his chin on her head, sighing. "Ano..." Kagome started, reaching out and touching the wolfs tail; but instead of pushing it off her legs as intended, she found herself stroking the soft, brown fur.
Kouga growled lowly in his chest and rubbed his chin on her hair, inhaling her sweet scent. Kagome giggled and pulled on the tail slightly. Kouga found himself going helplessly floppy and purred all the louder. Kagome smirked evilly and turned around slightly.
'Hmm... Every hero has his Achilles' heel...'
Kouga opened his eyes at her movements and raised an eyebrow. "Kagome?.. Wha?" Kagome giggled slightly less innocently now. "Close your eyes, wolf boy." She whispered.
Kouga obliged, wondering what the girl had up her sleeve. "Ka-?" "Shh!" Kagome pressed a finger to his lips and turned around, her knees now pushing against his thighs and her chest pressed into his. Kouga couldn't suppress a blush at such closeness.
Kagome slowly snaked her hands around the princes' stomach and giggled once again. Disturbing images flashed through Kougas mind and he licked his lips nervously as he felt her face drawing closer to his... He slowly parted his lips, awaiting hers... when Kagomes fingers started playing along his ribs and stomach, causing him to gasp and open his eyes. "Wha...?!"
A heart felt laughter streamed across the small meadow, mingling with the stray sunrays as and disturbing the butterflies that flittered away nervously.
Kouga tried to push the girls hands away, "Kagome, wait! I demand you- Ugh!" Kougas face was now a curious shade of purple. "Now, isn't it fun, Kouga- kun?" "Kagome, stop! It's not... Grrr..." His leg twitched slightly and started thumping against the grass, trampling it down and sending Kagome into another fit of giggles.
"Oh, me gosh..." She whimpered, tears running down her flustered cheeks. "Oh, Kouga, you're..." She ran her fingers over his lean stomach, sending the dog princes' leg twitching in doggy ecstasy...
"Kagome, please I ARGH!!" Kagome was now a bright magenta herself with laughter. "Kagome PLEASE!!!"
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*
"My lord, please!" Orito cried, falling onto his knees. "I swear I'm not omitting anything from you!" Oritos heart thumped against his ribcage; has the lord gone mad? There were his moments when the lord couldn't be called completely sane, like bringing in the little human whelp, but this... Was a little too much.
"You lowly creature..." The Inutaisho hissed looking at his retainer through narrowed eyes. Oritos heart twinged.
He had never been able to call the stoic youkai his friend, but he was never an enemy- and Orito respected and honored him throughout his days. Images of him playing with the young master flashed through his head- and he couldn't suppress a small smile as he remembered the little lord run around the castle, his tail resembling a bottle-brush, his little fangs bared- chasing the guards...
Sesshoumaru blinked. What the... Seconds ago the youkai was terrified; yet now... He frowned, there seemed to be a bereaving happiness mingled with pain radiating from him as he kneeled on the wooden floor, his bleached face reflecting on the floors shiny surface.
Making a sound that strangely resembled Inuyashas' 'keh' Sesshoumaru pivoted on his heel and strode away- leaving a bewildered Orito stare at the floor disconcertedly.
Orito sighed and got up slowly; he rubbed his throbbing temples and tossed his black mass of hair behind him virally. Will there EVER be any peace in this place? 'Do you really want to know?..'
'.... No ... '
*
*
*
"NO!"
Sango tugged on the algid chains that gripped her wrists, ignoring the hot blood that trickled down her arm and filled the air with it's metallic scent.
Her eyes blazed and she kept pulling and pulling, all the while glaring at Kagura, who sat in front of her. Kagura sighed and frowned. "Taijia, stop it." Sango hissed like a cat and lunged forward, only to be thrown back against the wall as the chains ended, stopping her a hairs breadth from Kagura, who didn't as much as blinked.
Sango slumped down and looked at the stone floor, tugging on the chains rhythmically; her wrists were covered in old, dried blood, with fresh, sticky one on top. The skin beneath it was raw, swollen and bruised from Sangos multitude tugs and pulls.
Kagura got up and shivered, the white, wet mist obscuring her feet; she dusted her kimono and walked up to Sango. "Stop it." She said indifferently. Sango lunged forward again, but Kagura hit her on her head with her folded fan quickly; Kagura watched as the demon hunter slumped against her legs. She bent down and leaned Sango against the wall carefully.
Her chest rose and fell as a heavy sigh left it. She sat down on the floor across the unconscious girl and hugged her knees to her chest, desperate to keep as much warmth as she could.
Kaguras' breath escaped her lips in tiny wisps of vapor. 'Gods, how much I want the bastard dead...' She thought grimly- and clutched at her chest, falling forwards on her face. 'Kagura... I heard that...' Kagura got up shakily, wiping the blood from her lips with one hand and clutching at her chest with the other. 'Oh, I'm sure you did.' She thought back icily. 'Only you've made a mistake. I want Inuyasha dead!'
Kagura could almost see her masters pallid lips curl into a lewd smirk, causing her even more pain. 'Of course I did Kagura. Forgive me.' He drawled. 'But you know... Even the best of us can make mistakes...' And with a final twist, he let go.
The poor youkai sniffed and clamped her hands over her face, determined to keep the invading senses and tears at bay. She sobbed and fell on the floor, her forearms under her forehead; letting hot tears fall to the stone, as cold and impenetrable as her masters' heart. If he had one...
"Kagura." The girl looked up at the owner of the voice. "What is it, brat?" She asked grimly, glaring at the light purple haired kid in front of her. He looked at her, then back at the demon exterminator.
"Stay here and guard her." Hakudoshi said quietly. "What do you think I'm doing, you kozou!" The boy ignored her comments and walked away, his little form obscured by the thick mist that hovered in the cave.
Kagura watched grimly as the huge, fire horse joined the little boy.
With a sigh, she settled back down on the stone floor that she managed to warm up a bit. 'I wonder why Naraku wont ever let me see him- why is he hiding, and who is the stranger whose aura I can fee- Arrgh!'
'Mind your own business, woman.'
Kagura narrowed her eyes angrily, not only did he hold her heart, but she couldn't even THINK what she wanted! She turned onto her back and rubbed her chest tentatively. For some reason it didn't hurt half as bad as before... Maybe he's getting weaker... Or... Her crimson eyes lit up happily. She's getting stronger... Perhaps... She has a chance... She smiled. Perhaps...
* * *
Miroku walked silently along the quiet rows of flowers, with nothing to disturb the perfect drowsiness except for the soft humming of the bees.
A shuddering sigh left his chest as he stopped by a small lake filled with koi of all shapes, sizes and coloring. He leaned on the wooden railings and looked at his palm absentmindedly. He still didn't get used to it- the almost absent Kazana that marred his skin. The tunnel was almost gone, only a small hole was left- but it, too kept growing.
Miroku clenched his hand into a fist and looked on the colorful fish swarming under him, awaiting a treat, gaping at the distressed houshi. Miroku closed his eyes- not only did Sango go missing, but Kagome left, all alone...
Shippou looked at the distressed monk sadly, a small frown crossing his brow. "Miroku, where is Kagome?" He asked, tugging the monk on a lock of hair. "And Sango?" he tugged harder. "Kirara?"
Miroku squeezed his eyes shut, "Of course, Shippou, they'll be fine." He grit out, gripping the red wood so hard that his nails dug into it. Shippou tugged on his hair again.
"Miroku?" The monk clenched his jaw. "What is it, Shippou-chan?" The little kit repositioned himself on Mirokus head. "Why not go find Sango- chan by oursefs?" "Ourselves?" Miroku chuckled and ruffled the kitsunes soft hair. "Yeah..." He rubbed his chin with his thumb and forefinger in mock thoughtfulness.
"Yup." He pulled the giggling kit of his head and tickled him. "Together we will save Sango!" And with that said, Miroku headed for the gates, trying to suppress the uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach. "Where do you think she is?" Shippou asked as they exited the Taihen palace and were slowly walking through the twilight forest.
Miroku stopped. "Good point, Shippou-chan." The little kitsune banged his head on the ground with a groan.
* * * *
Inuyasha rushed through the palace, sniffing all around and causing the passing by demons to sweatdrop at his behavior. "Chikushou..." He muttered, picking up the owner of the given name. "Kikyou!" He growled as he jumped out into a balcony, where Kikyou was sitting; watching the scenery. "Anone... I thought I told you to stay in the village!" He growled.
Without turning to the intruder, Kikyou lifted an eyebrow. "Inuyasha." She said in a voice that didn't suggest anything better than an 'osuwari'. "Since when is it that I am to submit to your witless orders?" She asked icily. Inuyasha gulped. "You are not to order me around like a possession." Kikyou turned to him and regarded him with half-closed, deep eyes. "Inuyasha. Do you love me?" She asked, her eyes mere slits, "Or do you want me around for support?" her eyes glistened with tears; Inuyasha opened his mouth to reply, but instead rushed forwards and hugged the miko, stroking her hair. Kikyou pulled away angrily. "Now I'm sure." She pushed him away. "You think that a hug will be enough for me, don't you?" Inuyasha flattened his ears to his skull, gaping at her like a fish out of the water, not knowing what to say.
"All you do is run around, shouting and waving your stupid sword around." She whispered, a tear running down her cheek. "You never care to stop and think about me. You're either angry with your brother, or, or moping about the girl..."
"But Kikyou! I do need you! Stay!" Inuyasha cried desperately, stepping forwards. Kikyou smiled grimly. "Need."
She lifted her hand gracefully and a Shinidama Chuu descended, snaking itself around her torso. Kikyous brown eyes closed tiredly as a few more of the soul stealing youkai joined the first one and lifted her up into the air. "Wait! Don't go! I love you! Stay!" Inuyasha cried as she disappeared into the sunset sky.
"Chikushou!!!" He roared and slammed his fists into the wooden floor, crushing it. "Hanyou. You will refrain from demolishing my possessions." Said a calm voice behind him.
"Go away." Inuyasha growled. "No." Sesshoumaru replied simply. "I wont. This is MY castle you're destroying." He said in a low, slightly growling voice. "Apart from entertaining my guards with your love-life drama." "She left... I said I love her, what else does she need?!" Inuyasha whispered.
Sesshoumaru looked at his pitiful relative. "Hn. It seems that your miko is by far wiser than you are." He said. "But I'm not saying she's wise." Inuyasha flexed his claws. "It seems that it's not love that you have for her."
Sesshoumaru curled his lip. "But an obsession. Your own, selfish fantasy." "She is your woman. Though I really don't understand why she even tolerates your infinite stupidity. You are the one to know what she wants, you are the one to * protect * her..." He almost whispered, emphasizing the word. "Yet it seems you cant even do that."
Inuyashas eyes widened. "I will await your groveling in my room when you are back to your..." Sesshoumaru smirked. "Normal self."
*
--- 'I can't believe Father left him that sword.' Sesshoumaru thought grimly. 'I can't believe he neglects it, tossing it around so haphazardly. It shames him, were we on better terms, I would have lectured him severely.'
But then... How can the half-breed know what shame is, anyway?
He was not the one who tried to save his mother.
He was not the one who pledged undying allegiance to his father.
He was not the one who tried to keep his fathers honor.
He was the one who spoiled it all.
He has no right.
Sesshoumarus hand closed over the Toukijin in a death grip. 'Damn. My temper is getting the better of me. Father would have been displeased.' Sesshoumaru closed his eyes.
'Father was never as brazen as I, he always acted carefully...'
Sesshoumaru sighed and leaned against the wall of his study, desperately trying to come down.
'Damn.' How he wished he was here...
His eyes started to sting, and he had the nasty feeling he might be crying again. The shame is overwhelming. He contemplated gouging out the offending tears before they could fall— He could always regenerate.
Sesshoumaru growled and collapsed on the cool table in front of him, rubbing his aching temple against its cool surface. Why him?
Why not... Somebody else?
Is there * any* meaning to his life? He sighed and closed his eyes, pushing back the memory of his mother. Every one he cared for, or considered valuable to him-left him.
The door burst open and Rin rushed in, plopping herself on his lap cheerfully. "Sesshoumaru-sama!"
Well... Maybe not everyone... He snaked his arm around the girls small body, hugging her to his chest. "Sesshoumaru-sama?" "Sleep. Rin." The girl blinked. It was still early morning... Ah... And with a sigh she settled down against him.
*
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Kagome opened her eyes and looked at her 'pillow'... Which happened to be Kougas chest.
Her eyes widened. What the... But then everything came back to her; 'Oh, so we must've fallen asleep after that 'tickling séance''... She thought and started getting up slowly, careful not to wake the sleeping prince. She froze as she felt an arm on her waist. Gods! How could she be so careless?
She uncoiled it and placed it on his stomach gently, smiling as the boy mumbled in his sleep.
With a sigh, she walked up to the make-shift washing line and jumped up to reach her clothes.
On the third time, she succeeded.
Having put on her clothes, she quietly walked up to Ah-Un and mounted him. "Farewell, Kouga!"
She whispered and pressed Ah-Uns' sides, sending him trotting along a barely visible path, his scales gleaming in an occasional yellow sunlight that streamed down through the canopy.
Her old melancholy got hold of her heart again as she moved away from the wolf prince, leaving him behind along with that short moment of joy and warmth...
*
Kagome rode out onto a grassy plain, the huge, red sun hung over the distant, gloomy mountains. She strained her senses to pick up out the direction from which the evil aura radiated most; then a huge shadow covered her completely- causing her to look up at it's source. "Hachiemon!" She cried in surprise.
Kagomes mouth dropped open as Miroku looked down over the side of his tanuki, followed by Shippou. "Shippou-chan!" She cried happily, almost jumping up and down on the 'pack-youkai' at the sight of her adopted kit.
* * * * Well, that's it! Alex-chan, as requested, this chapter is longer. Never mind that it is only by one page. Sigh.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * Authors Notes: (1) It was considered absolutely normal for women to leave their chest exposed; of course, not in the streets, but it was nothing out of the ordinary for a woman to breastfeed her baby out in public. When the men and women bathed together, the towels were used to cover the 'bottom necessities' only. Breasts were not considered to be sexy... Women only started covering themselves in late eighties, when the 'western wave' reached Japan. And since 'Inuyasha' is taking place in about... ! 1500-1600 (I suck at dates...) Kouga wouldn't be aware of Kagomes embarrassment or rage.
Vocab: Kozou: Brat. Sesshoumaru calls Kohaku by this ... Name?
Gah, there are too many clues. It was a website.
QUOTE: Q. Is it true that Sunrise announces end of Inuyasha anime this September? A. Either SUNRISE nor Yomiuri TV has not yet announced it officially, but one of the main animators related to InuYasha also wrote on the 30th of April that he or she got the scenario of the last but one episode , so that it is true that Anime InuYasha ends this September. The old answer on the 29th The Taihen denied this information once on the 22nd of April. But, According to Ryutekirakuen that is the most reliable Japanese fan site, indeed, SUNRISE did not announce such a statement, it sounds plausible that the anime InuYasha ends in September. Ryutekirakuen's webmistress (she is also a manga artist and has extensive information network among animators) wrote on the front page of her site on the 29th that she confirmed this information from reliable sources. The webmaster has not yet believed it completely because of no official announcement. However, almost all the Japanese fans have been convinced of it firmly on the basis of her excellent capacity for gathering information.
This message was anonymously posted to a Japanese BBS on the 20th of April. According to the message, when the person who posted the message went to an information session for job seekers held by SUNRISE this day, he or she heard this information from SUNRISE's recruiters and animators. Indeed, it is confirmed that the information session was held this day, but the webmaster and many other people have questioned the credibility of the situation described in the message because it is hardly possible that the recruiters said the confidential matters to the loose-tongued job seekers. Additionally, the movie 4 was officially announced to come out this December, which generally means that the TV station and its producer decided to air the anime until at least March of 2005 because lineups of Japanese prime-time programs are changed every half year, that is, in October and in April.
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Reviewers... ;_;
Sweet Fairy Jazz: Thanks so much 'Sweet Fairy'! Kouga? Mess up? Ne-ver..
Kouga is the best-behaved dude around. Isn't he?.. Glad joo approve of Kag-chan dressing up as a boy and all. Don't worry. Kouga 'wont' mess anything up. Winks.
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Sesshomarufan17: Glad you did. I'll try.
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Liz-chanloverofAnime: I update fast?! Wow. Thanks. I thought I was the laz... Mean busiest bum ever... What stories 'DO' you read?! Glad you got the 'humorish' part where Kouga was being a hero. Thanks for the review!
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Waizu Yoru Ame Otome: Ok... I know Sakura's the main heroine in Card Captor SAKURA. Sigh. Chibi I am then. Sigh. Right, I never demanded long reviews, so s'ok. Yup. You should've heard her squeal at pix of Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha. I'm just glad she doesn't make me draw that stuff... All the time. Hai, hai. You're not scatterbrained. Wakkatte, wakkatte... Gomen. Didn't mean it. I'm sure you're smart and collected.
Thank you for the review, I'll mail joo as fast as I can.
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Yamiyumetenshi: Lol. Yup. Maaannyyy people disagree on the language part. I guess I'll have to –try- and stop using it. Pity I can't write in Japanese here.
You liked the 'sniffing kimono' part? =P I did, happy you shared it with moi. Have you... Well, by any chance have seen 'Golden Boy'? It's just that your phrase reminded me of it... Ah... Lessons... I love them. Well. Not the school ones mind!
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ROW: I didn't know I did a great job. But if joo think so... Thanks! I'll try and update sooner.
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Lauren: yes... I do. My chapter seven (I think) was twenty-five pages, and this one is only... fourteen. Me very happy you like. Me speak no England. So you think it's ok in length? Good. Me very happy.
'Kay, I'll update soon! (Crossed fingers behind back have already turned into one from their usual position...) Sigh. I'm so la... I have so much work to do. ^_^'''
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SkyBlueSunShine: Do so. Writing down helps to memorise things. I watch Inuyasha in Japanese. Even if I wasn't, I wouldn't make poor Kaede say stuff like that. I think she's cool. Chibi... Hmm... That's a task. 'Chibified' means turned into a chibi. Sometimes they are called SDs (Super Deformed) Sigh. I like the chibi better.
It's NOT a small child-common misconception. It's a CHIBI. Sesshoumaru Chibified looks kinda weird MOST of the time, but I have one picture that's rather cool. I was looking for your address to send you a letter there, maybe accompanied by pix, but couldn't find it anywhere! I did come across your website. Get off your lazy bum and finish it! It's good! And my favorite part was when I clicked on that walking, kawai girl and was told to use my left click. * Grumbles * Beep. That was NOT fair!
Keh. Do send me the song, I'll really appreciate it, I'll do my best to translate it. But do it by snail-mail, Onegai.
Ah, jaa matte! Take care.
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Black-Fire Eclipse: Sigh. Mums are mums. I always call mine Mummy. (I hardly refrain from adding the 'Returns' part...) Ah, whatever. Genki desu ne... See, the Nightmare Science Fair is over, I'll update faster now. Here joo go.
Sayonara.
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WinterBlossom/Yuki*Sakura: Yup. Sess/Kag. Thank joo for the comp! (liment...) As you command... Here's the update!