Hey there everyone!

Okay, so I've taken votes from both this site and elsewhere, and as such have decided to name the sequel: "The Flower's Faith". Thanks to all who voted. And just so you know, 'flower' has something to do with the prophecy, so if you're wondering why that's included in the title… you'll find out soon enough.

Right… well, what can I say? This part of the story is over. I spent a great deal of my summer working on this, and let me tell you, it's great to come home from a long day of work with hundreds of tourists to the support I've been getting from this fic. I've never considered myself the best writer. My vocabulary isn't as big as I would like for my age. I don't generally read for pleasure, and I don't think I'll ever really understand what the purpose of ; is. The fact that you have enjoyed my writing, and not only enjoyed it but looked forward to it, makes me absolutely euphoric.

And this is the part where I express my passion. After discovering my undying love for language, I know this without a doubt… language is beautiful, and the best invention of mankind. Perhaps that is a little biased of me, but it is the beauty of language, and the complexity of English that made this fic work for me. Even without knowing all the words, the words I do hear breathe poetry. It wouldn't be right for me to say that everything I wrote came directly from my heart, because in truth, I have taken beauty from the world, and have tried to give it back in writing. Excuse me if it sounds uber corny, but there are countless ways to write, and countless ways to find inspiration. As I write, a pad of notepaper lies next to me, filled with random poetic lines for me to incorporate into the story, most of them from my reflection on something that was said to me during the day. My words are never my own. In fact, they are public domain.

And therefore, for anyone out there who wants to write, even if they don't think they're good enough, do it! There's no better way to learn than to practice. A few weeks ago, I managed to find the first fanfiction I have ever written, from when I was about 12. When I read over it, I couldn't believe it. It was so bad! Hahaha! But what was so wonderful was when I realized how much I've improved since then, and it's all because I've practiced. I know, there are plenty of fics out there that seem like a waste of time, but it only means there is room to improve, as long as the authors keep working at it.

And I will be more than happy to read your work and give you my advice if you like.

My best general advice to everyone would be to find something you're really passionate about, and draw from that. For me, it was the beauty of language and the adrenaline rush of music. But it works for anything. For example, if you really enjoy playing tennis, you can draw from your emotions during a match… the adrenaline rush, the concentration, the disappointments, the satisfactions, the ache of your bones, the support or lack of support from those around you. It really doesn't matter what it is you're into, as long as you utilize it.

Okay, so I've talked enough about my passions and stuff. I don't even know if you guys care about it, but if anything, I just want you to know how dedicated I am to this. Being in college does make it more difficult for me to write on a regular basis, and the best I can promise you for now is that I will try my hardest to make some time, but there are no guarantees that I'll be having a regular posting schedule for a while. If all works out as planned, I'll be getting the first chapter of the sequel up within the next two weeks, so keep an eye out.

And I suppose there's nothing left for me to do now then to thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I can't tell you how great it feels to get this kind of feedback. I love writing, even though I still think I can improve. I love hearing from you all. I love getting your advice, and being able to use the things I love to make you happy. For taking your time to read and tell me what you think, I am eternally grateful. There's really nothing more I can say or give to any of you except my gratitude. There's nothing more. Pure and simple… thank you…

I'll see you in a while. Until next time, may freedom grace your heart, if not your life and body.

ultimateromantic (Kelly)

acknowledgements:
Rumiko Takahashi
Alex Ubago
Aleks Syntek and Ana Torreja
Peter Pan (2003)

Disclaimer: I do not own any rights to Inuyasha or the aforementioned acknowledgements.