Disclaimer: PMK isn't mine. I'm sure you've all realized that by now.
Author's Note: Ahh, haven't had much time to write lately, but I felt like I should update here. Hope you all enjoy! \o/
Never Trust a Smile
"Ahh, it's so cute!" Shinpachi grinned at the object of Heisuke's exclamation.
"That's right, you look absolutely adorable!" He said, poking at the dressed up boy. Tetsu snarled angrily at the trio standing before him.
"Why do I have to be the group mascot? This is stupid!" He squirmed a little, pulling at the tight-fitting pig costume he wore.
"I don't even like pigs! Couldn't I have been something cool, like a fox or wolf or something?" He pouted, eyes narrowed in annoyance. Shinpachi waved his hand at him.
"No, no, had to be a pig. Some old rule about having to actually own the mascot animal."
Sanosuke nodded heartedly, slapping Tatsu loudly on the back. The short boy winced as his back stung from the blows.
"Yup. Gotta be a pig!" Shinpachi motioned at Tatsu with a shooing motion.
"Now get going! You don't want to make Hijikata mad by missing out in the parade, do you? And make sure to wave big as you're passing by!"
Sanosuke sidled closer as they waved at the short boy running off, pig tail bouncing, in the direction of the Annual Autumn Festival. Scratching his head, he elbowed Shinpachi.
"How much you bet Kondo faints on sight at seeing our boy represent the Shinigami in the Military Forces Uniform Parade?" Shinpachi snickered.
"I've got my money on Hijikata. The vice-commander's bound to blow a blood vessel at this one."
Heisuke sighed thoughtfully. Personally he thought Tetsu looked adorable in the thrown together pig costume. Ayu-nee had been suspicious but compliant as she'd sewn the outfit together with some scrap futon fabric.
"Ah, the joys of youth!"