Authors notes- Finally, got an idea! Sankyuu to the members of Anichallenge!

Sohma Megumi

I was swept up by Aya-jiichan. He ran into me, and next thing I knew, I was at his shop, helping him out. I have to say, it was fun to do.

His assistant, Mine-san is still there with him, to this day. I think she knows about the curse, and it seems to not phase her. If only more people could be like her.

She left to 'run errands' when we were done, letting me be alone with Aya-jiichan.

He looked serious for a change as he talked to me.

"Rin-chan told me that something seems to be wrong with you. She didn't want to mention it infront of Akiha-hime or Haru-kun. Will you tell me?"

Aya-jiichan may be a fool, but he does have his moments where he impresses everyone.

Oh, this could take a while.

"Its about Akiha."

He just looked at me, not saying a word.

"I...I think I love her. Not like a brother should. But who am I to say I love you to her?"

"Thats exactly right."

What?

"Akiha-hime is a Goddess. Mortals cannot compare to her divine glory. We foolishly covet what is not ours, hoping that we'll recieve a word of praise. And Goddesses do not fall to the Earth like an angel may. She is not the one for you, Megu-kun. One day, you'll find that fallen angel. Leave the Gods to themselves."

I was amazed. Aya-jiichan is a lot smarter than he appears.

"Um. Aya-jiichan? Please don't tell my parents or Akiha-chan this..."

He just gave me a look.

"I...I met the Dog. It was on accident. I had gotten lost a long time ago, and came across him. Since then, I've visited him once a week."

He was shocked. Then, I saw him get angry.

"Megumi, listen to me. There was once a time when I was very close to Shigure. But, he made his own choices, twisted as they were. He will not think of lying to you. He has a...history with your mother. Are you aware of it?"

This is the first I've heard of it.

"No? Then I'll tell you.

"Nine years before your birth, things were different in the family. We lived under the reign of Akito. And back then, it was originally the Cat that would be sealed away. But, Shigure commited a crime against your mother. He was jealous. He had cared for our Goddess, and let himself be blinded by his emotions. Akito had taken some time away from the family, so that she could sort things out about her parents, and the life she had led to that point. Shigure thought that Rin-chan made Akito leave him. He raped her in retribution. But, Akito found out. She felt betrayed, and she knew that the Bond that she shared with us Jyuunishi had been broken.

"She changed the curse. It wasn't broken, no. As Shigure's punishment, he became the outcast of the Jyuunishi. Kyonkichi-kun was allowed to join the Jyuunishi. Shigure brought it on himself. Megumi, please promise me that you will not see him anymore. If not for us Jyuunishi, or Akiha-hime, do it for your mother. She doesn't need to be reminded of her past."

Kaasan had never told us this. I doubt that Akiha-chan knows.

"I promise, Aya-jiichan."