leila winters is an indisputable champion of AU Megumi/Aoshi fanfics. Don't believe it? Check out her ff.net profile. She was the sole survivor in round 1 of the first fanfic contest to make it through and complete her story, "O Captain, My Captain."

1. First off, let's get this monkey out of the way, why Aoshi and Megumi? In other words, what makes them work, in your eyes?

I'm sure everyone will say this, but I really do like the complexity of their relationship. Separately, they are great characters. Megumi has got enough spunk to carry on her own mini-series and do it well. Aoshi is a different matter. As cool of a character he is, I have a difficult time imagining him with his own spinoff. It just wouldn't have it's own flair.

However, you put the two together and the dynamics are amazing, dynamics that aren't there if you pair off Sano and Meg. In many ways Sano and Meg are too much alike. The fun is in seeing how Aoshi and Megumi play off of each other and come together. Their interactions are so fascinating, on par, I think, with the Saitou/Tokio pairing, just amazing.

2. Are there pairings or stories out there that reminds you of the relationship between Aoshi and Meg?

Lol...like my life? It's a phase I went through a while back, but I sorta dated a guy just like Aoshi in looks and attitude. I can't say it was a lot of fun. The emotional distance made the relationship the most emotional bond I've had with people, girls included. He was antisocial, couldn't stand being touched, analyzed things to death, and had a penchant for being the secret hero. He even had a streak of that psychotic edge Aoshi is famous for. A little scary, actually. (I was, of course, Meg. My friends call me "Coy" and refer to me as "Coyness." Pretty cool since I also have a deranged laugh, one that my buddy calls "a witch's cackle.")

Aoshi and Megumi are a pretty unique relationship. Tho...another of my favorites resembles it a bit. Sorata and Arashi from X/1999, except it's a total role reversal. The woman is withdrawn while the man is full of vitality. Though, can you really imagine Meg telling Aoshi that she was born in order to die for him? Lol, didn't think so.

Megumi/Saitou might have some of the same dynamics going on. ^_^

3. Do you think that Aoshi likes pineapples? Er rather, what do you think Aoshi's favorite food is? Heck, if you feel like it, attach a favorite meal/snack for any and all RK characters! Use your imagination. (no points for people who already have favorite foods--ie Beef Hot Pot or Soba) :D

That's a tough one. I see Aoshi really into stir fry, vegetarian, not really much of a meat-eater. I want to say sushi/sashimi, but honestly, I see him as a vegetable and rice kinda guy. If he were modern day, I think it would be very much the same. He's a man of his time. ^_^

As for Meg...I see her getting into sweeter things. I don't know much about Japanese cuisine, but deserts with sticky rice and sweet beans or some dim sum. Something she can eat with her hands and still keep them clean.
Modern day Meg...she would definitely be into strawberry shortcake.

4. What is the most interesting or complex thing about Aoshi and Megumi's characteristics?

Megumi is my favorite female character in RK. That being said, I love the ease with which she deals with her sexuality. She openly flirts with Ken, discreetly eyes Sano and (in our stories) snags the stiff Aoshi. It's easy to see her controlling men's emotions like a practiced artisan. She's self-assured, definitely a plus.

Aoshi is my second favorite RK male (sorry, folks! Saitou wins in that category!) I really like the way he is always quietly composed and together. That aloofness that is so appealing in people that are not real...(and the coat...c'mon...) What is really intriguing is the whole aspect of such a big, imposing man moving with the stealth and grace of a dancer. Yum. ^o^