http://clampfix.fanworks.net/x-fix/gambit00.txt </head><body><pre>New multiparter inspired by the latest developments in Asuka. Of course, if the next issue reveals something totally different, just treat this as a "what if" fic then. In any case, if I can predict what's gonna happen next in X, I'll be reaping tons of cash as a member of Clamp; not doing this as a hobby. I'm not even paid peanuts for this. ^_^; It's just a short little teaser so far, but I hope it's enough to whet your appetites. Enjoy. All characters are property of CLAMP. Standard disclaimers apply. --- Gambit (Prologue) An "X" Fanfic Presented by Alison Koh As the bamboo screen was slowly raised, its motions created a gentle breeze wafting across the room. The flame from the candles flickered, causing the shadows to dance eerily across the four walls of the sparse room. Souhi and Hien then bowed in obeisance before taking leave of Hinoto. Hinoto knelt on the dais and waited patiently. She stared at the entrance to her audience chamber with eyes that could not see. Very soon, the dark aura appeared to her senses, slowly but purposefully approaching her sanctum. Though she was deaf, she could sense the door slide open and then close from the shifts in the psychic patterns in her room. She bowed slightly and smiled. Communicating psychically to her visitor without being able to speak, she said, "You have finally come." The assassin removed his shades in order to scrutinise his surroundings a little better. "You summoned me." It was a statement of fact, not a question. "Yes," she replied, "Are you surprised?" Seishirou chuckled, "I have accepted assignments from people I've least expected before - people who claimed to have the highest morality, people who were the pillars of decent society, politicians, philanthropists, religious leaders. In the end, they're all the same. Whenever they need to remove a sensitive opponent, they look for me. "While I did not quite expect you to turn out to be one of my best clients, I wouldn't say that I'm surprised." "Weren't you ever curious to know who hired you?" "In my line of work, discretion is very important. I understand that many of my clients would prefer to keep their names out of the public eye. At the end of the day, it's still work. As long as I'm paid well for my services, I don't really care." "Even when I denied you your Hunt?" He smirked, "I expect to be allowed to resume it at any time. Wasn't that the purpose of this summoning?" Hinoto's lips curled into a chilling grin. "Yes. It has been postponed long enough. You may have your fun now. I want all the Seven Seals destroyed in any case." "Thank you," Seishirou said. He bowed in mock respect and then turned to leave the room, a wide smirk plastered across his face. Behind him, Hinoto smiled diabolically to herself as she thought, /Yes, I shall change that Future./ ----- Dreams of Sakura Home -- http://www.starhub.net.sg/~alison X Shrine -- http://www.geocities.com/asuka_sg</pre><p><a href="./">Back</a></p><p><a href=http://www.dreamhost.com/donate.cgi?id=216><img border=0 alt="Donate towards our web hosting bill!" src=https://secure.newdream.net/donate1.gif></a></p></body></html>