Here is a collection of outtakes and funny thoughts that ran through my head as I was writing my more recent stories... Just for the record, just because I poke fun at something here, doesn't mean I'm criticizing it. I'm just imagining how some of these scenes could have gone, had I been looser with the meta references. Also, occasionally, I've written a line that I realized wasn't appropriate for one of the characters but was funny enough in the end to share here.


Outtakes from "Rebuilding"


On ships passing in the night during Winter Court:

     "It's funny, how things go," Hyosuke commented. "Had it not been for Bayushi Norachai's request for troops to defend the city, I think we would have caught each other at Winter Court this year."

     "Perhaps it's for the best," Noriko mentioned. "As good friends as we are, there'd have been scandalous rumors, awkward incidents in the hot springs, and perhaps a ridiculous pillow book or a play written about our friendship."

     "And invisible people would watch every move we made, as if waiting for us to fade to black so we could consummate some hidden, unspeakable love for each other," the shugenja contributed. "It would have been like some goofy role-playing game."

     Both Hyosuke and Noriko paused to look at the camera.

(Seriously, I love all of the Winter Court folks. *flashes SCGS*)


On Terumoto's contribution to his marriage:

"Actually, he keeps the relationship full of stories; funny stories, thoughtful stories... he's kind of a chicken soup for the soul, as it were."


On Hyosuke's duties:

     "Yes, I imagine you have much to do," his companion replied, nodding to the scroll case he carried. "Reports to give, orders to relay, underlings to coordinate."

     "I prefer the term 'minions,' myself. Sounds more diabolical."


On Hyosuke's memory:

     "Riko-chan... Some years ago, we met in the forest." The Fox spoke slowly, trying desperately to chase off the buzzing in his head from a combination of liquor and headaches. "I've never found the right way to explain this, and I cannot do so now, but... I have long since sworn an oath to assist travelers in Kitsune Mori. If someone is in genuine need of assistance, I must offer help and cannot refuse them if they ask for it. When I initially helped you seek out, um... Dammit, what was his name?"

     "You mean you don't know?"

     "Not off-hand. Chris doesn't keep his older stories on his PDA for reference like he should."


On fading to black before things get too weird:

     Moments later, Hyosuke's kimono joined Noriko's in a shapeless heap upon the wet ground. In this way, they matched their owners perfectly.


On way too much information:

     "Morning," Hyosuke responded, looking down at the yellow and green kimono draped over him. "Um, I think this is yours." He bit his tongue to keep from adding 'I think I might have worn it back here last night.' He looked down. "Sorry, but I think I was a little drunk last night and you were hogging the covers, so..."


Outtakes from "A Bitter Wind"

On preparing for storyline results before the results are known:

     "The Sons of Winter. Their attacks. You knew when we spoke before at the capital. You felt the Fox were being threatened, and then..." She shook her head, sighing. "Why didn't you tell me?"

     "Because we didn't know why the Fox were going to be joining the Mantis when the Temptation results were announced. The writer is trying desperately to retroactively tie up the loose end."


On writing when the Muse strikes:

     That proved to be a mistake, because she turned to lock eyes with him as if sensing he'd seen her. And he suddenly found that he couldn't bear to have her see him right now. Not like this. He looked away, gritting his teeth and

     And what? Chris?

     Sorry, fajitas just arrived.

     Where are you?

     Can't talk. Eating.