Silver: Since Kuri and Sakuya's first story was submitted late, we decided to throw this story in as a bonus. It's set around 2 ½ months into her pregnancy and they are about to be married. It's also set about 2 days before my father Mohatu's 35th birthday.

So without further ado, sit back, and enjoy!

Kuri © shiro7785

Bold: Narration Italics: talking in the past

8. (Wedding Bells)

ooo Kuri's POV ooo

I smiled to myself as I woke up in the palace one morning. The two floating rings that had become a permanent decoration of the castle were counter-rotating to one another, giving off a gentle blue light as they hummed slightly.

Everything that happened just a month ago all seemed like a dream to me. I couldn't believe I was about to become the Emperor of a village in the digital realm; I was tamer to and was about to marry a digimon goddess that was also half-kitsune…and to top it all off, I was about to become a father…

However, as I turned to my left and saw the vixen in question still sleeping peacefully, my smile became even wider as I was relieved that it wasn't just my imagination. We had begun planning the wedding with our friends ever since Sakuya first announced our engagement to the rest of Foxwood Village, which was completely abuzz with excitement.

The wedding would take place that very afternoon at the Petal Dance chapel at Blossom Mount, (a Japanese-style church) and everyone in Foxwood, plus the surrounding areas was invited to attend the ceremony.

Sakuya and I had already chosen our attire, and the best man, the bride's maids and the ring bearer, and Mohatu's students had even offered to perform songs at the wedding as well.

Speaking of Mohatu, we also had time to plan a special surprise for his birthday; which would be two days after the wedding, in honor of his services to the village. By using a special gate I designed for inter-dimensional travel, we were bringing his father, Ahadi to Foxwood, all the way from Mohatu's old home in Zimbabwe.

My thoughts were soon broken by one of the some of the servants coming to the door; they were going to be helping me give my armor that I had chosen to wear at the wedding one last polish before I was ready. Not wanting to wake up Sakuya, I slipped out the door and gently closed it behind me.

ooo Sakuya's POV ooo

A loving smile was on my face as I soon woke up; I was about to fall asleep for a few more minutes, but then my eyes widened as I suddenly remembered something very important…

"Oh my god…I'm getting married today…!" And without another thought, I quickly got out of bed and began to get ready for the long day ahead of me.

-

A short time later, I was finished with my daily routine and headed back to the main chambers. I had received a mental connection from the girls and they were on their way to help me with the wedding dress that I had picked up the evening before. Now some of the female servants had started to help me as well.

Kuri meanwhile was getting help from some of the male guards as well as their guard captain; he was talking with them about doing a military style entrance for when they went into the chapel, seeing as he was already in full armor.

I smiled at him. "Good morning love; we were just going over some last minute details before the wedding today. I then noticed their armor. "And I see you were as well."

He sighed a bit. "I hope it's okay if our guard captain and one of the elite's is coming out behind me when we start."

I nodded. "Yes, it's just fine, Kuri; now I just received word from Imani that Ahadi should be approaching Foxwood soon, so we'd better get to that before our friends arrive to help us finish getting ready." (Imani had been secretly contacting Mohatu's father, Ahadi, inviting him to surprise Mohatu as an early birthday gift, so he would be appearing at the wedding as well).

Kuri nodded as well, looking to the guard captain. "Is my armor ready?"

The captain gave him a reassuring nod, and of course, there wasn't so much as even a smidge or a scratch anywhere on Kuri's armor, or the cape he had chosen. His sword was buffed and polished as well.

I smiled. "Well, we'd better go check on the gate and see if Ahadi's arrived, love."

"Good idea. He should be coming from the gate inside the palace, one of the few I haven't put out yet."

I joined him at his side, my long tails flowing behind me. "Lead the way, Kuri." I said as we headed to his lab, one of the newly added rooms to the palace. Once we made it there, we saw the gate ring begin to spin, similar to the gate when Kuri first added his manor. It soon began to power up, allowing us to see a clear image of a MageRonomon after a few moments.

Finally, Ahadi stepped through. He had sapphire fur and silver markings, similar to his son, and wearing a special dashiki (A traditional piece of clothing for African males) with orange and green trim. He bowed to us, speaking in an African accent. "Ahh, Empress Sakuya and Emperor Kuri; it is a great honor to finally meet you both."

I smiled. "It's an honor to finally meet you as well, Ahadi; your son's spoken very highly of you."

"Of course, welcome to Foxwood." Kuri replied.

Ahadi grinned. "Thank you. I've been looking forward to this visit for a very long time…I'm especially looking forward to seeing my son, Mohatu; where is he by the way?"

"He hasn't made it here yet, Ahadi; but he will be at the wedding later today."

"Of course, your highness; and I'm looking forward to that as well, and thank you for inviting me here.

Kuri nodded. "In all honesty, sir, part of the invitation was as a birthday present for him, so that is a part of it."

"I know; Imani let me in on the surprise a while back…it did take me a few days to get here, though…but if it hadn't been for that gate of yours, Kuri, it would've been much longer than that." He chuckled to himself.

"And some of my earthen colleagues called me a nut for even thinking that up…" Kuri'sears perked. "Oh." He then pulledback a cover, and under them were a set of custom painted Taiko drums. On one of the drums was a flame painted design around the top rim, and a skull on one part; there was also sort of a fox symbol on the skin. And on the other, there were Alpha-omega symbols around the rims and a pentagram on the other skin. Ahadi looked at the drums in awe.

"Oh my; those are some wonderful drums…are they a gift for Mohatu's birthday as well?"

"Yes, in fact we had custom painted these; since Mohatu has such a large collection at his home, we decided to add to it."

Ahadi smiled, his tail twitching a bit. "That sounds like a wonderful idea, sire; I two have also made a drum for Mohatu's collection…I've created many drums for our people back in Zimbabwe over the years, so I do know a thing or two."

Kuri nodded. "In fact, Ahadi, if you wish, you can come out with me and the guards when the wedding starts…and surprise that boy of yours…" He added with a smirk. Ahadi smirked as well.

"That sounds good to me. I was going to surprise him at the wedding, anyway, now it'll be an even bigger surprise for him."

"We should have some armor that will fit if desired."

"Of course, sire."

He nodded, motioning to our guard captain. "Captain, er, uhh…" His ears lowered. "Damn it, I forgot the name…"

I chuckled softly. "It's Captain Akira, love; and don't worry, you'll get used to him after a while."

"Yes; Captain Akira, would you mind outfitting our guest with a suit? Full plate. We're looking to surprise someone."

Akira bowed to him. "Of course, sire." He replied, turning to Ahadi. "Come with me and we'll get you fitted; fortunately we always have some spare armor on hand." He then led Ahadi out of the room. I smiled as I watched them leave.

"Don't worry, Kuri; I had trouble figuring out all of their names when I first became Empress, so there's no need to feel bad about that…"

He nodded softly. "That I understand."

Outside, we could here many people and digimon arriving through the village gate. "It's a good thing our Biyomon and Hawkmon friends offered to take some people to the chapel…"

Kuri glanced at his watch. "We should start getting ready soon."

"Our friends will be here to help us get the final touches as well, love; and I just received word from Satoshi (a Rageromon who runs the chapel) that everything is ready at the chapel, so at least we don't have to worry about that."

He nodded as well; but soon sighed a bit as he remembered something that happened at every wedding in Foxwood's royal family…the spirits of all the past rulers, as well as their former mates would arrive just as soon as the wedding began. Which meant that his former mate, Kagura would be there as well…fortunately, I already informed him of that so he wouldn't be too caught off guard by her appearance…but still…

I caressed him gently. "Are you going to be alright, love?"

"I just hope I don't faint on the way down the aisle."

"I know what you mean; I'm nervous myself; but just think about how wonderful you'll feel when Satoshi announces us Emperor and Empress when all of this is over." I then got another mental connection.

"Our friends are here, Kuri; so we'd better head back to get ready."

He nodded. "A couple of our female servants will be styling my hair. I'm sure you'll like it." He winked at me and walked off. I chuckled to myself as I headed back to the main chambers where the girls would be waiting for me.

ooo Kuri' s POV ooo

Outside all of the citizens were getting ready as well. The entire town had been decorated in honor of the occasion, and everyone was dressed in their best yukatas and kimonos for the ceremony.

I was slipping into my armor, being locked in with help from the guards; two of the lady servants were waiting by with the hair styling items, both giggling at how I looked.

Meanwhile, Sakuya was getting ready as well, as her friends helped her into her kimono, and getting her own hair styled as well.

After my hair had been styled in the Sephiroth style, I slipped on the crown I had designed, my bangs going over it. Sakuya's own hair was in the "Geisha" style (a Japanese hairstyle) and she had a lotus blossom in her hair as well, adding to her beauty.

I then stood as the guards brought forth my mantle (another word for a knight's cape) made from black, silky cloth and lined red inside, locking it around and making my hair still come over it. The female servants helped Sakuya in her kimono, making sure that everything was straight; her own kimono was made with the finest silk and had beautiful cherry blossoms all around.

After seeing my armor was well enough, one of the guards brought my sword, which I examined and smiled before placing it across my back, the runs on the blade glowing. I flexed my gloves and slammed my fists together, making sparks showing I was ready.

For a final touch, one of the servants gently placed a sterling silver crown on the top of Sakuya's head. A beautiful yin-yang pendant (which I had given her as an early wedding gift a few days before) was also placed around her neck as it shimmered in the sunlight as it shown through the castle; she was ready as well.

-

I put on my pentagram necklace for my own final touch, smiling to the guards. Akira and the others bowed to me in respect, smiling back as well. Sakuya then sent me a mental link saying it was time to go to the chapel. I nodded, since I was supposed to be on the aisle first, I left first with the guards behind.

Ahadi grinned as his armor was ready by then and he marched with us as well. I only smirked, as Mohatu would have no clue as he marched with us toward the chapel. Beautiful cherry blossom trees surrounded the large church, and in the front was a Renamon and Ronomon statue. The Ronomon was wearing a tuxedo while the Renamon was wearing a gorgeous wedding gown.

In front of the door stood a Rageromon with yellow fur and dark blue markings, he was Satoshi, the owner of the chapel. He bowed to us in respect and smiled.

"Ahh, welcome, sire; everything inside the chapel is ready, and I hope everything is to your liking."

I nodded. "I trust it will be. I suppose I had better get to the altar."

He nodded as well, noticing the guests were already going inside the chapel. "Yes, most of the guests have already arrived to get a good seat."

"Actually, I think I will wait until the seating is finished."

"I understand, sire; it shouldn't be much longer. The leaders from the other villages have already arrived.

I smiled, waiting at a side door. "Excellent."

Mohatu smiled, seeing some of his family and friends from Primary Village arrive. "My father would've loved to see this, Kuri…"

"If only you knew…" I thought to myself.

--------------------

Time passed as we waited; Satoshi then nodded, after getting a mental connection from the inside. "That's the last of the citizens, sire; Lady Sakuya and the others should be arriving momentarily."

I nodded, pushing the large chapel doors open, blushing as I saw everyone look back to see me enter, which I did, followed by the entourage. Mohatu chuckled softly to himself, but remained in his cool composure, as he stood straight, following the guard captain down the aisle.

As we walked down the aisle, his students played a military style rhythm on their Taiko drums, adding to the scenery. I heard it, stepping over the medium bridge and soon up the altar steps.

Soon after that, everyone was soon into position. A few moments later, the chapel doors open, and Lyoko was walking down the aisle, looking very cute in her yukata; she tossed cherry petals down the red carpet as the bride's maids, (including Silver, her sisters, and her friends, Maliha, Tayla and Luna) made their way down the aisle. As they did, some of Mohatu's other students played a lovely melody on their instruments, with a rock theme to go with the wedding.

I looked up and watched…my armor making a small clank sound as I shook, but I closed my paws around it to stop it. Ayame and her sisters soon made it to their altar, all of them holding beautiful flowers in their paws to match their kimonos, following them was their Kitsumon cousin, Jessie, as he was the ring bearer.

Finally, after everyone made it to the altar, another Rageromon with sky blue fur and dark blue markings came forward (his name was Tai and he was one of Mohatu's students), he also had a Warlock in hand. His was dark blue, with blue lightning bolts on the body. His strap was a lighter blue than his fur and had an Alpha-Omega pattern on it. As soon as he got his cue, he began to play the opening riffs to "Here Comes the Bride".

Once he did everyone in the chapel stood, turning as Sensei and Sakuya appeared arm in arm as they slowly walked down the aisle. (Sensei had offered to 'give her away' at the wedding, since Sakuya's dad was no longer with us…) Sakuya was looking absolutely stunning in her kimono, while Sensei was looking quite handsome in the yukata he had chosen for the occasion.

My face pinkened slightly as my eyes sparkled at Sakuya's beauty. Her own face was beaming with joy as she walked down the aisle. As soon as they got to the end, Sensei let Sakuya come over to me, bowing in respect as he joined the other males. She smiled lovingly at me as she joined me at my side, I returned the smile as Satoshi stood in front of us, bowing in respect as soon as Tai finished playing.

-

Just as soon as Satoshi took his place, a heavenly glow filled the chapel, shining down on us. "Ahh, it looks like the spirits have arrived just in time."

Everyone looked up in awe as the spirits from the kitsune realm had indeed appeared before us, including Sakuya's parents and her former mate, Masaharu. Everyone knelt in respect as they appeared. I blushed as I saw, looking back and forth, before a familiar scent hit my nose: lavender…

Suddenly a cloud appeared before us in the shape of a kitsune…the kitsune then appeared before us. She had white fur and two long tails flowing behind her…

My eyes nearly went wide as I saw that blue hair and those amethyst eyes of hers…my heart nearly stopping right then and there. "K, kagura…" Sakuya looked over to me, holding my paw as I closed my eyes, telling myself silently that I swore I wouldn't break down.

Kagura smiled lovingly at me, appearing in front of the two of us; a certain glow was around her as she spoke. "Kuri; I know it hurts, but you have a loving mate now who cares about you…and of course, I wish you both the best of luck in your future, and for your new child as well." She bowed to us in respect, as the spirits followed suit.

I nodded. "I, I know it will be a long time before we can once again see one another, and, I finally, accepted, that, you cannot resurrect. Just please, be safe until then…"

Suddenly, an Azulongmon appeared before me. (He was the one who watches over the spirits). "There's no need to worry about her; Kagura's in the best of hands, Kuri…and you two will indeed meet again someday-I will make sure of that when the time comes…"

As soon as that was said, I balled my paws into fists, as I couldn't fight back my tears any longer, I let them fall as I cried silently to myself. Sakuya and the other villagers watched as she snuggled next to me, comforting me-I suspected she felt the same way about Masaharu as he smiled down on her, giving her a reassuring nod, letting her know that Azulongmon would do the same for them.

I managed to keep my powers from going out of whack, and I finally calmed down after a few more moments. Kagura smiled as she rejoined the spirits as they took their place to view the wedding along side Azulongmon; she nodded at Satoshi, allowing him to continue.

ooo Sakuya's POV ooo

Satoshi nodded as well, as he turned back to us, I did the same, holding Kuri's paw.

"Good morning. We are all gathered here today, to join these two lovers in matrimony-if for any reason these two should not be wed, let them speak now, or forever hold their piece."

I smiled as no one said anything, then after a while, all of them focussed their attention back to Satoshi. Kuri breathed deeply, getting ready for the next few moments. Satoshi smiled at him.

"Kuri, do you take this vixen to be your lawful wedded wife, to have and to hold, for sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live?"

He took a deep breath, speaking as decent as he could. "I do."

The audience smiled as Satoshi turned to me. "Sakuya, do you take this man to be your husband, to have and to hold, for sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live?"

I smiled lovingly at Kuri. "I do."

"May I have the rings, please?" Jessie smiled as he went up to the altar, handing us our rings on a pillow. I gently placed Kuri's ring on his finger as he did the same. The pentagram on his ring came to life, with a fiery light in the stone as the yin-yang symbol on mine came to life as well.

Satoshi then looked over to the unity candle; the candle itself stood alone between two that were already lit. The candelabra also had the crest of Foxwood in the middle. "Now, while these two light the unity candle, Mohatu's students have composed a song for the occasion."

Koga's sister, Sarah, along with Tai went up to the stage, as Mohatu played a melody on his keyboard.

(A/N: nuts, I forgot to mention that I don't own the song "Endless Love" by Lionel Richie…)

Tai smiled as he began to sing.

My love, There's only you in my life-the only thing that's right

Sarah: My first love, you're every breath that I take-you're every step I make

Tai: And I (I-I-I-I-) I want to share, All my love with you…No one else will do

Kuri placed his paw over his heart as he listened.

Both: And your eyes, your eyes…they tell me how much you care-Ooh, yes, you will always be

My endless love

I instantly recognized the song as one of my favorites; I listened attentively as Tai even added a bit of a rock twist, adding a guitar solo. After it was finished, they continued.

Both: Two hearts, Two hearts that beat as one

Our lives have just begun

Tai: Forever (ohhhhh) I'll hold you close in my arms I can't resist your charms

Both: And love-I'll be a fool, for you

I'm sure you know I don't mind

Oh, you know I don't mind cause you

You mean the world to me

Oh I know I know I've found in you

My endless love

The entire audience's hearts melted at their beautiful melody. Kuri meanwhile, couldn't help but look toward Kagura as the song played, obviously, a lot of happy and painful memories surfaced for him, but somehow he managed to keep quiet. Tai and Sarah went into the final verse of the song after a few moments.

And, yes-You'll be the only one

Cause no one can deny This love I have inside

And I'll give it all to you

My love

My love, my love

My endless love

As the song finally finished, everyone gave them a standing ovation, cheering and applauding their wonderful performance. Tai and Sarah bowed, accepting their applause before returning with the rest of the class. I smiled as the unity candle had been lit by then, then Kuri and I went back to our position at the altar.

Satoshi smiled as he went out to the audience. "By the power vested in me by the village of Foxwood, I now pronounce you husband and wife." He turned to Kuri. "You may now kiss your mate."

He nodded, giving me a soft kiss on the lips, as I did the same, murring softly. Above us, Kagura smiled as she watched the scene, with love in her heart.

Satoshi then grinned broadly. "Ladies and gentlemon, may I present to you the Emperor and Empress of Foxwood Village, Mr. and Mrs. Kuri and Sakuya Shiro!" The entire audience erupted into cheers as cherry blossom leaves filled the air.

Kuri drew the broad sword he had on him, the blade seeming to be made of ruby as he held it high, the sunlight shown down on the blade, adding to its beauty. Azulongmon and the other spirits watched on, smiling down on Foxwood's new rulers.

"Foxwood Village is now in capable hands…" He thought to himself.

ooo Kuri's POV ooo

I then re-sheathed the blade. "Sir Azulongmon?"

"Yes, what is it, Kuri?"

"I, know I am in no position to be making commands…but, see to it that the kitsune council watches over her, and, if anyone else tries to claim her as theirs…" I looked up. "Try and make sure they aren't here for me to get my paws on them. We may be separated by dimensions, but, she and I, are still mates to one another." I looked down, hoping I hadn't hurt Sakuya by saying that.

Azulongmon chuckled softly. "I'll be sure to keep that in mind, Kuri." He smiled at Sakuya, who smiled at me as well.

She snuggled next to me, wrapping her tails around my waist. I closed my eyes. "I do apologize, Sakuya, I do still love her, after all."

"I completely understand, Kuri-there's no need to worry about me."

I nodded a bit. "And, if I don't act like myself over the next few days, I do apologize."

"I know it'll take some time getting used to, so you don't have to apologize to me, love."

"It's not only that…"

"I know what you mean…" She looked up at Kagura, smiling at her.

"Yeah, I may sink into a stereotype mood for a while of the suffering emo kind."

"That's quite alright; you won't be the first Emperor to have done that, and certainly won't be the last."

I nodded once again. Some of the guests began to talk amongst themselves, while Mohatu's students began to pick up their instruments.

Koga smirked coming over to us, his tail twitched a bit. "Congrats, you guys; this wedding was way better than the ones I'm used to."

"Thank you for your kind words, Koga." Sakuya replied, smiling.

"Well, let's hope we set a precedent on this."

Koga nodded, watching his sister help the others put their things away. "I'm sure you have. I'm hearin' quite a few comments from some of the leaders of the other villagers, and they're all good ones so far."

"Heh, I guess I'm a bit of a maverick." I smiled.

"Hehe, there's nothing wrong with that, besides, no one can change who you really are."

"Yes, true; I won't be conforming to what people might think of a knight, anyway."

Koga nodded again, seeing his sister was ready. "Well, I can see Sarah's waitin' and I know how impatient she gets, so we'll see you guys again at the palace for the reception." He bowed to us then headed over to her.

Sakuya bowed as well, her nervousness now having been lifted from her shoulders.

Mohatu smiled. "Well, congratulations, you two; you finally made it." He placed a paw on my shoulder. "So Kuri, how does it feel to be the new Emperor?"

I blinked a bit. "What are you talking about?? I've been the Emperor for months…and if it hasn't been official 'till now, I'll let you know once I have some experience."

"Well, it hasn't been official until just now…so I'll excuse that last comment…" Mohatu blushed slightly as some of the guards laughed softly.

Sakuya giggled a bit as she noticed Ahadi smirking under his armor, shaking his head at his son. Mohatu meanwhile, blinked softly at her, wondering what was so funny.

I then tapped our 'guard' on the shoulder, giving him the "when you're ready" look. Mohatu's family gathered around him as he crept in from behind, taking off his helmet in the process; he then gently tapped Mohatu on the shoulder, grinning from ear to ear. "Surprise!!"

Mohatu blinked softly then grinned broadly, hugging his long-lost father. "Father? I don't believe it!!" He then spoke in Zulu to his father, obviously very happy to see him. Ahadi chuckled softly as he returned the embrace, nuzzling his son as Imani and her daughters smirked.

He grinned, obviously taken aback. "Father, h, how did you get here???"

"You can thank your friend Kuri for that one, son; it was his gate that brought me here."

Sakuya smiled. "We wanted to surprise you, Mohatu; for all you've done for this village…so consider this an early birthday gift."

Tears of happiness flowed from his eyes. "Thank you all so much…you have no idea what this means to me…"

"You're very lucky to have such wonderful friends, son; and a loving family that cares about you as well."

"Yes, I am…" He embraced his father once again, continuing to speak in Zulu-telling his father what he'd been up to recently.

"It looks like our surprise for Mohatu was a success, love." She smiled as Ahadi responded.

I nodded. "That gate will stay in the palace motorpool for emergencies."

"That sounds like a good idea, Kuri."

Mohatu smiled at me as his father stood at his side. "Thank you so much, Kuri…this is the most wonderful gift I have ever received."

"As I said earlier, I was called an utter nut for wanting to try inter-dimensional transport."

Ahadi smiled at his son. "Come on, Mohatu; we've got a lot to catch up on, and don't leave out any details…" He placed his paw on Mohatu's shoulder.

He chuckled to himself. "We'll see you guys later for the reception." He smiled as he walked off with his father.

Sakuya looked around as some of the guests had already left for the palace. She smiled at me. "Shall we go, Kuri?"

I nodded. "Of course." She then took me by the paw as we headed down the aisle together. Once we got outside, a special carriage was waiting for us to take us back to the palace.

I blinked softly. "What the…?" The carriage had been decked out like one of my hot rods that were in the palace's new garage. It was painted blue with bright red flames on the side.

Sakuya grinned. "I hope you don't mind, love…but I didn't want to go with the traditional carriages…so I had a few changes made."

"W, where'd this come from?" I asked, surprised. She giggled softly.

"Well, this carriage has actually been in the family for quite some time; so I had it restored."

"I see…no wonder I didn't see it in my motorpool."

She smirked as Taka, in his Liomon form was at the head of the carriage, ready to pull us back to the palace. "I wanted it to be a surprise for you, love; so I saved it until today."

I stepped up to it, letting Sakuya get in first; after she was in, I sat down next to her.

Imani smiled. "We're going on ahead, so we'll meet you all there." Some of their Birdramon and Aquilamon friends were already taking position as they got on their backs; as soon as everyone was on board, they took off. Soon after, Taka followed them, pulling the carriage as we made our way back to the palace.

"Hmm, I may add a mecha no strider or something to pull this so Taka doesn't have to."

Sakuya nodded. "I was already considering something like that for today, but Taka wanted to help out, so I let him."

"Well, for general use then…"

-

A few minutes later, the palace came into view; Sakuya looked out the window, noticing it had been decorated for the occasion as well. I blinked as I saw.

"Now I wonder who did that…I suppose a couple of our servants must've snuck out of the wedding after it was over and took care of this…"

Taka then stopped in front of the palace gates. "Hehe, last stop, everybody out."

Sakuya giggled softly, shaking her head a bit; she smiled as she got out of the carriage. I did the same, as I was not used to this. She then helped Taka get out of the stirrup, after which, he reverted back to his rookie form. "Thanks for the lift, Taka."

He smirked. "Any time, your highness." He then spotted Luna and headed over to her, nuzzling her gently.

Sakuya saw quite a few of the guests heading inside the palace and going to the grand ballroom. The Machinedramon that once tried to attack the village was now standing guard, (I had reprogrammed his data so he couldn't cause any more trouble, so he was now one of the palace guards), looking out for any sign of danger amongst the villagers.

As soon as everyone was inside, Sakuya and I went in, seeing that even the inside of the palace had been decorated. Six digimon, three Taomon and three Rageromon; were standing inside the door. (These were Sakuya's advisors). One of the Taomon smiled as she noticed us coming; then turned to the guests, who noticed as well.

"Ladies and gentlemon-the Emperor and Empress of Foxwood Village, Kuri and Sakuya Shiro." She and the guests knelt in respect as we walked into the ballroom.

I walked alongside Sakuya as her most trusted advisor, Mizuki, motioned us to a special table reserved just for us. As we sat down at our places, Everyone rose once again.

"May the celebration commence!" She smiled as Mike and Taka started the music and the reception began.

Sakuya smiled as she looked around. "Oh my; this is wonderful, isn't it, Kuri?"

I looked out, seeing all of the people enjoy themselves, some of them even began to help themselves to the long buffet table, which had just about every food you could imagine. Even seeing the wedding cake, which was in the shape of our manor; it even had the floating rings as requested. "I would say so."

She then noticed the floating rings on the wedding cake. "How the chefs managed to pull off the floating rings on our cake, I'll never know."

"Actually, I did that, hun."

"Really? How?"

"They're the same as the real ones, just smaller." I smirked.

Sakuya giggled, snuggling next to me.

-

Needless to say, everyone was having a great time; after about an hour, Mike grabbed a microphone, smiling at us. "All right, everyone, clear the dance floor; 'cause it's now time for the newlyweds to have their 'first dance' with a song they had chosen for this occasion." He then put on a CD with the song "I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith. (I don't know why, but I always pictured a ballroom every time I heard this song…)

Sakuya then took me by the paw. "Shall we have this dance, love?" She smiled at me as we headed out to the dance floor. I blushed and came out alongside her. As we began to dance, two red crystals came out on mechanical stalks and shone red spotlights on us.

Sakuya took my lead as the song began to play, of course I just did my best, as I wasn't used to slow dancing like this…but somehow I managed to keep it up throughout the whole song, even with everyone in the room watching us.

After a while, the song was over, and everyone applauded, smiling warmly at us. I took a deep breath, glad that I did that without any mistakes…she then snuck a kiss on my cheek, making me blush slightly.

-

A few hours later, Sakuya and I were relaxing at our table, enjoying some of the delicious food that the chefs had prepared. She was sampling some of the sushi that was there, while I had some fried chicken and some cheese fries on the side.

Sakuya then noticed that little Diamond had gotten out of her carriage and was hopping over to us. "It looks like Diamond wanted to say hello, Kuri."

I chuckled softly as the little Reremon smiled brightly at me, cooing softly all the while. "It would seem that way, Sakuya." I then dropped down a ribbon, to help the young vixen come up to the table; as soon as she wrapped her tail around it, I pulled it back up.

Suddenly, she then hopped into my lap, nuzzling me gently. I meeped a bit as I pushed the chair back so I wouldn't fall over. Sakuya couldn't help but laugh to herself at the sight.

I managed to sit down after that as the little one snuggled next to me. "Hmm…you know, I've been thinking, Sakuya…perhaps I could play a song tonight for our new little one before the reception's over."

She nodded. "That's a wonderful idea, Kuri." She then smiled, as Diamond looked up at me, wagging her tail a bit. "And I have a feeling Diamond would like that as well."

I nodded, smiling as Diamond even began to hum a bit to the music, well at least something she would understand…the rest of the Kitsune family, and their friends came over to us, glad to see this for some reason.

"You know, Diamond's been doing that for a few weeks now; and we haven't seen something like that since Lyoko was her age."

At that moment, Diamond, suddenly stopped humming, looking up at me as her ears twitched a bit and even her tail twitched a bit, too. Lisa blinked softly as she noticed.

"Huh? What's up with Diamond?"

"No idea…" Was my only reply. Sakuya also noticed this.

"Oh my…I've seen this before…" Her smile then grew wide. "I think she's beginning to digivolve…" Her prediction was right as a small cocoon of data suddenly swirled around the little vixen.

All of the guests sensed the new data that was in the room and stopped what they were doing to have a closer look; we smiled in awe as the data suddenly broke away as quickly as it came, revealing Diamond in her Viximon form. She still had her cream-colored fur and golden eyes, but she now looked more like Lyoko did when she was a Viximon. Diamond giggled happily as she looked up at me.

Tai grinned. "Well, what do you know; she digivolved!"

I blinked softly. "Um, level up??" I asked, confused at this. Sakuya smiled.

"She's now at her in-training level, Kuri."

"Hehe, awesome." I smirked as Diamond smiled broadly, her tail wagging excitedly. Everyone in the room cheered for her, congratulating her for her first digivolution.

Then another surprise came as the still little digimon looked up at me, her tail now wrapped around my arm. "Uri…" She smiled at me.

Silver blinked a bit. "Um…did I just hear that??"

"I think so…" Sakuya replied, everyone looked at the little one in surprise, waiting for her to repeat that.

"'Uri!" She said once again, giggling to herself. Imani laughed softly, looking at me.

"I think she's trying to say your name, Kuri…"

I nodded, beginning to help her sound it out.

"Uri?" she asked again, her ears twitching a bit. I kept trying to help her, and she was determined.

"Uri?" she replied, looking up at me.

"Almost got it, hun; just missing a sound…" She then put on a determined face, her ears still twitching. "Kuri??"

I smirked. "Hehe, you got it." She giggled happily.

"Kuri! Kuri!" She continued to giggle as her little tail wagged. Sakuya chuckled softly.

"Well, I think she's got it now, love." I grinned as everyone cheered again, all of them very proud of the little Viximon. Lisa then took our picture for the scrapbook she was making for the wedding.

-

I then decided it was time to perform my song for the citizens. I gently placed Diamond back into her carriage and headed up to the stage after Mike and Taka stopped the music for the time being.

Once I was on stage, I raised my paw in almost a heroic stance; there was a red lightning flash, and then I was holding my Warlock as if it were a sword. Everyone turned around, all of them noticing I was on stage. I then closed my eyes, and began the opening riffs of "Sweet Child o Mine" by Guns and Roses (A/N: if you're not familiar with this or any of the songs, in this or future stories, just look them up online J).

Everyone grinned as they listened to me play; Sakuya was obviously taken aback as she placed her paw over her heart as I continued.

After the song ended, I fully stood. "That song, was for the parents of this town, as well as the future parents." Everyone broke out into applause and cheers, giving me a standing ovation for my performance. I blushed and bowed, accepting the applause. Sakuya joined me as Taka started the music once again and I went off the stage, giving me a loving kiss on the lips; my tails frizzing as a result.

-

Soon, the sun could be seen setting through the palace walls.

"My, I didn't even realize how fast the time was going…but something tells me this celebration might go on past midnight, although I may be wrong."

I smirked. "Not that we'd mind. This town does need more excuses to party it up for extended periods."

Sakuya nodded, smiling. "Yes, that's true."

Just as the stars came out, a loud whooshing noise was heard, followed by the light of fireworks. Everyone headed outside to the koi gardens to find a fireworks display had been put on, courtesy of Machinedramon and the rest of the gang.

Sakuya and I looked up, the two of us completely taken aback. "Well, it looks like someone's found my fireworks stash…" I replied, looking over to our friends, all of them smirking at us.

She giggled softly. "I had a strong feeling that they had something to do with this…"

My tails intertwined with hers as we continued to watch the display.

--------------------

Epilogue 2 days later…

ooo Sakuya's POV ooo

Two days after the wedding, Kuri and I were hosting a birthday party for Mohatu, with the help of our friends and his family. We had just given Mohatu his gifts, when suddenly…

"Oh!!" I felt a sharp contraction in my stomach. My sudden yelp caught everyone off guard.

Silver noticed the expression of pain on my face. "Oh boy…don't tell me…"

"Kuri…it's time…!" I yelled out. Kuri meeped and jumped up, reaching quickly for his cell phone and calling the doctor. After he was finished, he darted out of our bedroom and into the bathroom to get some warm water and towels; then he rushed downstairs to wait for the doctor as the others helped me with my breathing.

ooo Kuri's POV ooo

A Rageromon with orange fur and blue markings soon came into the palace, carrying a doctor's bag (His name was Doctor Taro). "Sire; I came as soon as I could." He said as soon as he got to the door.

I only nodded and rushed us up to the chambers through my garage gateway into my lab. He rushed with me to where Sakuya was waiting, but even though he made it, I accidentally skidded out of control; and soon a crashing sound could be heard as we ran in.

Dr. Taro got his paws sterilized and placed gloves on them. He then spread Sakuya's legs. "All right, your highness; you're going to have to push now…" Sakuya nodded, doing as she was told. Silver and the others continued to help her with her breathing, but she covered Lyoko's eyes, as she didn't want her to see that part.

Dr. Taro began to feel the baby beginning to come out. "You're doing great, your highness; just keep going." Sakuya let out another scream as she pushed once again. I looked on, but it was obvious that I was nervous.

"We've almost got it, your highness-I can see the head now, just a little bit more…!"

Sasami cringed in pain as she felt Sakuya's paw grip hers hard, but she managed to pull through as Sakuya gave one final push. As soon as she finished, we could hear the baby's first cries as she panted heavily. I nearly fainted, falling into a seat as Dr. Taro wrapped the little kit inside a warm towel.

ooo Sakuya's POV ooo

Dr. Taro smiled warmly. "Congratulations, your highness…here's your little girl." He handed the little kit over to me, who began to calm down as soon as she was in my arms.

Tears of joy began to stream down my face as I saw; the little kit looked like a mini version of Kuri, having black fur cascading down her body; she also had silver hair from me and emerald eyes from her father, she also had red markings. Lastly, six little tails could be seen under the towel, each of them with red tips to match her markings.

Ayame and the others beamed at her. "Aww…she's adorable."

Kuri watched the scene. "And quarter Renamon as well…"

I smiled lovingly at him. "Would you like to hold her, love?" Kuri then stood and came closer as I passed the little kit over to her. He gently took her in her arms as she looked up at her new father, cooing softly. He blushed a bit, but smiled, looking to her eyes.

Imani smiled. "Have you two chosen names for her yet?"

"Actually, with all the commotion with the wedding, and preparations for Mohatu's birthday, I hadn't exactly thought of one…"

"Well, I have…" I smiled at our new daughter. "How do you feel about Sakura?"

Kuri chuckled softly as the little kit gurgled happily in response. "Sakura Shiro…yes, that sounds just perfect for her."

Diamond cooed softly, wanting to get a closer look at her. Mohatu grinned.

"I think Diamond wants to see Sakura, Kuri."

Kuri nodded and picked her up. Diamond cooed softly, looking into Sakura's eyes; her ears twitching a bit as Sakura looked back into hers. She then cooed back, hoping Diamond would understand what she was saying. Diamond giggled softly in response, wagging her tail as Sakura did the same with her tails.

Ahadi chuckled softly. "Well, what do you know, they're friends already…"

I nodded. "It would appear so, Ahadi."

Sakura then yawned a bit as she was getting a little sleepy. "Well, we'd better get her to her new room, I suppose." Kuri said as I got up (I was now feeling well enough to move on my own) and we headed towards the baby's room. Once we were there, he gently laid her in her crib, turning on a mobile, which had a space ship, a pentagram and a few other objects.

Sakura yawned again, this time her eyes were getting a little droopy as the mobile played a soothing tune to help her sleep. Imani smiled as the music wasn't just effecting Sakura, but it effected Diamond as well.

"Well, we can let her sleep here for now." Kuri said as Imani gently placed the little Viximon into Sakura's crib, just as the twosome fell asleep. He then ushered everyone out to let them sleep; but before I left, I gently placed a blanket in the crib-it had the royal crest of Foxwood sewn on the front.

-

Kuri closed the door behind him as everyone else headed back to the main chambers.

I smiled. "Can you believe it, Kuri? We're parents now."

"Hardly to be honest; but it'll just make things a lot more interesting now that we have a little girl to take care of."

"Yes; that's true-and it'll mean a lot more adventures for us as well." I replied as we headed back towards the room to join the others, both of us already thinking of the new age of parenthood that was coming our way.

-The End-

Phew…I thought I'd never get finished with that one…

Sakuya: -she smiles- well, you did, and that's all that matters, Lisa

Well, because this took so long, there won't be a Christmas one-shot after all…

Audience: (awwww…)

But don't worry, though…there will be something special in store for New Year's for all of you, so be sure to be on the look out for it, but before we go, here are the names of the reviewers from the 7th one-shot:

Natsuke1985, ShadowJ51, SassyOMG2282, and we actually have a new reviewer this time: an extra special shoutout goes to katana777!!!

Silver: As Renaki said before, be sure to be on the lookout for the New Year's one-shot to be posted soon, so until next time:

All: SEE YA!!!