Disclaimer: This story is based on "Inuyasha," copyrighted by Rumiko Takahashi. No infringement of copyright intended or implied.
The Listener
Kaede stopped, as she saw Hijime, then edged closer to Suriya as the miko greeted the headman's youngest son.
"Good morning to you, oh fairest damsel," he said lightly, giving a slight bow. "And where are you going, this fine morning?"
Oh, ick! He said the same stupid stuff to Kikyo!
"We're going to check the sealing on the hanyo," said Suriya.
"May I walk with you, miko-sama?" he asked.
Please say no!
"Certainly, Hajime-san." There was a warm smile in her voice. "To the forest edge, at least. I've been wanting to talk with you."
No!
"What about, if I may ask?" The two adults started strolling down the path, a silent and fuming Kaede trailing behind.
"I understand you lost part of your right hand in a training accident."
Stupid, clumsy toad!
"What about it?" He asked defensively, clutching his maimed hand to his chest.
"I trained with both katana and naginata, before my lord sent me to the temple. I have some ideas that might help. Also, with your permission, I would write my father asking him to speak with the arms master, for suggestions."
Hajime stopped short, forcing Kaede to do as well. "You would do that, for me?"
Only 'cause she doesn't know how nasty you are.
"Of course, Hajime-san. No one can return your hand to full use, but you might still be able to master a weapon."
"Miko-sama, if you do that, I will forever be in your debt!"
Until she does something you don't like.
"Thank me when you've proven your weapon," she said. "Now, why don't you tell me about your training?"
And so it went. Kaede kept her anger behind her teeth, acutely aware of the glances as they walked through the village.
Her day was totally ruined.
Author's Note: This piece was written for the prompt "Damsel", for the LiveJournal community Inuyasha's Unsung Heroes. It was originally posted on August 2, 2011. (10/19/2011)