Chapter Ten

*************

“Where have you been?”

The icy tone of his voice made her head snap back up. Her mouth moved soundlessly. The anger she’d felt outside was momentarily forgotten in the face of the current situation. Her startled eyes were wary of his ominous form. His amber eyes pinned her to her spot.

Silence filled the room.

He stalked closer to her. His hands fisted together in repressed anger. He’d come home to find her gone. He thought someone might have taken her. After all the stories and the way the times were. How could she be so stupid? “Where have you been?” He asked again. His eyes had narrowed to angry slits. He was livid.

“I was with Misao.” She said a little shaky.

“Do you . . .” He stopped himself. “Anything could have happened to you.” His tone had dropped several degrees.

“I asked you to come with me.” She could tell it wasn’t the right thing to say almost immediately. He advanced on her so quickly. He cupped her cheeks in his hands and brought his face down to hers. He silenced the rest of her words with a kiss. It was deep and hungry. One of his hands entwined into her hair roughly, bringing her closer to him. He pulled on her hair, tilting her head back. Her mouth opened in pain but the sound was muffled, swallowed by him and his wounding kisses. Suddenly he broke away leaving her woozy and wanting.

She stared at him with half lidded eyes. Her breathing was erratic and so was his. “Kenshin.”

“You are NOT allowed to leave the inn without me” He stated having regained his control. Though his eyes still burned with the feeling to dispense punishment.

The words finally clicked in her mind. “Just a minute,” she said standing up. With her hands on her hips and narrowed eyes she called out to him. “Kenshin.”

“No.” He hissed.

“Wait a minute you . . . ” She bit off her tongue to keep herself from calling him a son-of a $%#@ “No one’s attacked Kyoto. If I wait for you to take me over to the Aoiya I’ll never get to go.” She kept taking deep breaths she was hoping to appeal to his reasonable side.

“No.”

“Kenshin-BAKA!” Her voice finally reached the familiar tone she used at the dojo. “I will do as I please. Do you hear me!!”

He realized this is what it must feel like to have a headache. He felt like shaking some sense into the little idiot. Turning his back to her, he knew exactly what to say to her. “Perhaps you should return to Tokyo then.”

Her mouth opened in shock. Was he threatening to send her home? “That’s not what I said you imbecile. I’m not leaving you alone.” She stomped her foot to get the feeling across.

“These are house rules. You leave protected or you don’t leave at all. Those who don’t like the rules have been asked to leave. It’s up to you koishii.” Crossing the room in long strides as soon as he finished speaking. He left.

She fumed silently. ‘Bastard,’ she thought as she slumped back to the floor. Still she hadn’t realized things were getting out of hand. She’d already had a talk with Yamagata about Kenshin’s condition but maybe it was time she spoke to him again.

*************

To say he’d been angry would diminish the whole of what he’d actually felt. She’d made him frantic maybe more than that. He’d been . . . . It had felt like . . . . Like he was deranged. Completely consumed by the feeling of loss and he’d felt the righteous anger numb his heart. The cold that’d taken hold of him, it’d steeled his nerves. Much like it had in Izu. He was so protective of her maybe even overprotective. But how could he not be. He . . . . . “I love her.” He said in an inaudible whisper. Of course it came of no great surprise. He’d had a feeling since that first day he’d laid eyes on her. He still hadn’t said the words to her, not in the same way she had even though she was infinitely precious to him. It was so odd for him to think like that but it was the truth. He spent the rest of his day out in the yard. The rain was still coming down though not heavy enough to hurt. He was free of patrol duty for tonight. But tomorrow and for the next three days it would be him going out at night.

Being out in the rain for so long did little to settle his anger but enough to settle his nerves.

Everyone in the dining room watched him a little apprehensively as he made his way up the stairs heading for his room. He’d almost killed the guard at the door for leaving his post. Because of the day‘s incident Yamagata had agreed with Himura on the lack of guards around the premises. So now there would be two men on active duty at all times. The shifts would rotate within all twenty-eight of them.

Kenshin made his way to the familiar hall. He slid the door open and came in quietly. He felt anger bubble back to the surface when he saw she was gone again. He had to give her sometime though. He’d give her a bit. Since she could be taking a bath or getting something to eat. Any number of things. Fighting against the need to drag her back to the room he changed his clothes and sat down. He hadn’t realized having a wife could make him so crazy. His eyes closed for a moment. The wind blew hard against the side of the house coming in through the window. He felt it on his face. He realized he was tired.

Kaoru walked back to her room more compliantly. Things were different, well now that she’d had a talk with Yamagata. She hadn’t really understood the scope of things. But she’d listen, now. Though she hated to feel trapped. If it put Kenshin at ease. She would do it. She slid the door to her room quietly. The first thing she noticed was his hair was wet. Her eyes narrowed. The second thing was he was sitting right in front of the window. Think happy thoughts, she told herself. Think happy thoughts. Otherwise he’d be able to sense her anger and wake up. When she was close enough to him she smacked him right across the back of his head. Startled purple eyes blinked at her in confusion. “Kenshin-baka.” She scolded. “You’re going to get sick.”

Pulling him on his high ponytail, she tried to get him to move. He rose and allowed himself to be guided. She sat him on the floor closer to where she lay the futon. She laid him into the warm bed despite his protest. She pushed on his shoulders till he settled down. He watched her walk to the candles in their room and blow them out, one at a time. Once the room was completely dark she began to change. That always amused him. She was shy, even though he’d seen it, touched it, and savored it all before. She padded over to the bed as graceful as she could in the dark. He felt her getting into bed. He’d bet anything she was blushing. He felt her snuggle into his warmth, his hands going around her ways in the usual manner. He froze at the feeling of bare skin where there should have been clothes. A feral smile curved his lips. Turning his body further into the embrace. He felt her breath on his chin. Her mouth was so close to his. ‘She couldn’t have been all that mad then,’ he thought as he felt her hands searching his face. He laid a kiss on the palm of her hand as she looked for his mouth.

“Kenshin.” She whispered in the dark. That’s about all the incentive he needed. He knew she was sorry and she aught to have known he was to. He kissed her until he felt the last threat of fear leave him. She was here and she was safe. Nothing else really mattered. As long as everything stayed this way. Nothing else mattered.

*************

Minami and two of his personal guards walked down the road. The morning air was freezing. He straightened his hat as he walked in the rain. The rest of his men rested outside in the outskirts of town hidden behind thick trees, deep within the forest.

The rain had started coming down harder. He sped up his pace and his guards matched it. Soon they would reach Kawaramachi Sanjo. They walked until they came upon a big house. He and his men stood outside for a moment. This house had once served as a meeting place for the Ishin Shishi.

“Minami-san.”

His guard didn’t have to tell him he knew. He sensed him too. They moved to hide within the shadow of the house. They crouched behind a small wall. They waited for the Ishin guard to move but he’d paused right in front of the house. Normally they would just kill him but he needed to get the rest of his men into Kyoto. If they killed the guard on patrol, it would alert Yamagata of their arrival. Which would be way to soon and so they waited. They felt him draw closer and they moved to another spot.

The guard stood there sure he could sense someone near by. He walked to the side of the house and looked along the wall. There was no one there. He frowned. He should have paid attention when his teacher had been teaching them the art of reading people’s ki. He turned when he heard the sound of running footsteps coming closer. He ran in the direction of the footsteps. It’d been a while since he’d seen some action.

Minami and his men waited till the presence of the other man was completely gone before they rushed into the house. He hoped the rest of his men were as careful. They would arrive in pairs of three every half-day. So he expected three around mid-day and three more at midnight. It would be about five days before he had all his men with him. Shaking the rain of his coat he stepped into the house.

*************

Kenshin sat in the dinning hall with the rest of the swords men. His mood was much brighter than it had been the previous day though you couldn’t tell by just looking at him. He ate his breakfast quietly. The sound of the rain still persisted though today it was accompanied by the sound of thunder and flashes of lightening. He was aware of the other men starring at him though he didn’t understand why they kept doing so. Finally he looked up and settled them with an icy glare. Suddenly something dawned on him. She’d bitten his neck last night. His first instinct was to touch the mark but he restrained himself from doing it. After glaring at the men one more time, he returned to his meal without any further acknowledgment.

He walked back to his room knowing she’d still be asleep. For some odd reason he enjoyed watching her sleep. He entered the room to see she’d rolled over to his side of the futon. He closed the door quietly and walked over to the window where he took a seat. The katana lay over his shoulder as he stared out. He wasn’t sure what would happen. The turn out of this war the Minami-gumi had waged against them, against the people. The outcome . . . it was yet to be decided.

Glancing over at his wife he realized that when the time came he could get away from this and not miss it. He could lead a life without killing. He could be her rurouni. He hadn’t known that when he’d first woken up. But now things were different now.

The country had enjoyed a peaceful era for over a decade. If only the Mimawari-gumi hadn’t taken out their hate of the Meiji Ishin out on the innocent. He shook his head in disappointed maybe even bitterly. Still though he’d protect those who could not protect themselves and when it was all done he’d go back to the life created by his rurouni counter part. He’d live out the rest of his life with Himura Kaoru. He watched her little hands grasping the sheets. She was searching, reaching out to him. Without a second thought he went over to her. He removed his daisho and moved the covers aside so he could lay back. He brought her close to him and smelled her hair. It smelled like rain, it was the first time since he’d know her that it smelled differently. He ran his hand over the smoothness of her back. It was still hard to believe he was thirty-one. That’s twice the age of what his mind insisted he was though he knew the truth. Her mumbling interrupted his thoughts.

‘Kenshin the tofu,’ she mumbled snuggling closer to him. Her hand found its way into his gi. She stopped when it finally rested over the plains of his bare chest. ‘Never mind, stay her instead.’ A little smile spread over her lips and her breathing evened as she fell into deep sleep.

He only held her closer to him. She had away about her, he just couldn’t explain. He wasn’t really sleepy and he wasn’t the kind of person to take a nap during the day but to stay here while she dreamt of him. He couldn‘t think of a better reason not to try. Wrapping himself around her he let his mind drift. It would be so nice if he could join her in sleep then he‘d never have to leave her.

*************

The rain had thinned out as night took over and visibility was very poor. In this kind of weather he wouldn’t be able to see his opponent until he was awfully close. Adjusting his hat he continued south tonight he’d walk in a circle. It was a good thing Kaoru had enough foresight to buy this thick Michiyuki back in Izu. His hand were hidden somewhere deep in the sleeve. His pace slowed as he reached the place she’d mentioned. The Aoiya.

There was someone standing out front. He squinted to get a better look at the individual. It looked like an old man. But his fighting ‘ki’ was strong. The battoussai would usually reach for the hilt of his sword just about now and though his hands itched to do it. He did not. He continued walking down the road just as he’d been. The man stepped away from the gate and stepped in front of him.

“Himura.”

The battoussai stared at him for a moment trying to find a name for the face. Kaoru had told him about Kyoto when they were still in Izu. His man, he was . . . “Okina.”

The man’s eyes widened for a moment. “Do you remember me?” He asked hopefully.

The battoussai shook his head and tired to side step the old man but he moved.

“There are things that I’d like to discuss with you.” Okina said having become serious.

“I am on patrol.” Kenshin retorted

“Oh.” Okina thought for a moment before he nodded. He moved aside and began walking with him. “Well.” Okina wasn’t quite sure how to start. “Kaoru’s been here already.”

Kenshin didn’t acknowledge anything. He already knew this.

“She told us what happened.” Okina paused again. Himura had spared him a side-glance. “We’ve been in contact with other clan’s. They’ve sent us a report of what they’ve found out. I’m not sure if you know this or not but I figured the best person to share this is with you.”

“Does your Okashira know you’re out here sharing information?”

Okina looked at Kenshin for a long moment. “There are some things that Aoshi will always be left out of.” He looked straight ahead for a moment. It was a bit more difficult to talk to the battoussai than to the rurouni still this was important. “The Mimawari-gumi stands at about two hundred men. Same as before, it’s five captains are from the same families. Osaka suffers death on both sides and the Shinsegumi are active, there.”

All this he knew. Did the old man expect something of him in return?

“Himura we’re both on the same side I though we could help each other out.” Okina said a bit exasperated.

Kenshin thought for a moment. It really wasn’t his place to share information. But the man had once offered shelter to his wife. His clan had protected her while he was off fighting. Only because of that. “They’re rumored in Shiga.” It was all he offered.

Okina stopped walking. ‘Shiga.’

Kenshin felt the old man stop but he continued on. He still had to get all the way to Kawamarachi Sanjo and then back. He’d have to walk all night. If he was lucky he’d make it home just before dawn.

Okina watched him walk away for sometime. Until he could no longer see him. He turned back and headed for the Aoiya. ‘Interesting,’ he thought. She could fill him in on many things but would she be able to fill him in on his technique. The succession technique to be more precise. He really doubted it. Sooner or later Himura would have to see his Shishou. Otherwise Saitou Hajime would have his day.

Okina made his way through the back of the house, leaving his coat near the entrance of the kitchen right by the fire so it could dry. He made his way down the hall and stood in front of the last door on his right.

Okina was about to open the door when Misao stepped out.

“Hi Jiya.” She said as she stepped out of the room. Her face was flushed.

“Misao-chan isn’t it time for bed.” He said to her with a twinkle in his eyes.

“Yes, I was just going. Goodnight Jiya.” She said at the door and turning back momentarily. “Goodnight Aoshi-sama.” She said acknowledging him.

“Goodnight Misao.” He called to her from his office.

She smiled brightly and walked away.

Okina entered the room suspiciously. He noticed Aoshi had everything in order so he couldn’t have . . . . His eyes turned away from the room instead to look at his okashira but there was nothing different about him either. The only thing he saw . . . . Of course. She’d brought him tea. Feeling suddenly better he got right down to business.

“The Ishin Shishi have the same information we do. They have reason to believe the Mimawari-gumi is somewhere in Shiga.” Okina sat down suddenly feeling tired.

“Is he different?”

“Yes, very much so.” Okina responded as he stared at the treats Misao had brought for Aoshi along with the tea. “He seems more . . . detached.”

“Do you confirm rumors in Izu?”

“I wouldn’t say he did it all. And from what Kaoru said there had been reinforcements when they’d been attacked. He didn’t actually start killing until she was injured.”

“I see.” Aoshi said as he pushed the tray in front of him so he could take some but Okina refused.

“I have to go to bed. I will see you tomorrow.” Okina said leaving the room.

Aoshi’s eyes drifted back to the treats she’d made him. She always thought about. . . . No, she always worried about him. He shook his head and began going over some paper work. Tomorrow he’d send word to one of a few clan members who lived in Shiga. He kept to his work only stopping from time to time to eat a bit of his snack and drinking his tea.

*************

A lone figure emerged from shadows sometime before daybreak. He walked down the dirt road alone, stopping at the gate. He knocked on the door and waited for the door to open. The little window opened and closed almost immediately allowing him entrance. He continued his walk, making his way into the house silently.

Kenshin entered his room glad to be home. The last couple of hours are what seemed to have dragged on. He looked around his room until he found what he sought; a little bundle in the middle of the room with what looked like three blankets covering her. He changed his clothes and got into bed. He gathered her into his arms and allowed himself the comfort she provided. 

Kaoru woke up bright and early the next morning. If she was going to be trapped in this place she might as well get something out of it. She dressed quickly. Tying her hair up in the usual way as she ran down the hall. She came to a halt when she got to the kitchen’s entrance. She walked in a little nervously. “Umm.” She began.

The landlady stopped what she was doing to look at the newcomer. “Child I swear you’ll frighten me to death.” She said with a kind smile on her face.

Kaoru smiled a little openly. “Umm, I was wondering. Well . . . I was wondering if I could help you out? In the kitchen.”

The landlady stared at her for a moment.

Kaoru felt her face flush. “I’m not very good in the kitchen you see and I was hoping that maybe if I spent time with someone who can that maybe I’d learn to be a better cook.”

The landlady smiled reassuringly. “Of course you can. Here you can help me with the soup.”

Kaoru ran over glad that the lady was so nice. She’d finally get to learn to cook. Ha, won’t Yahiko be surprised. Rubbing her hands together she set off to work.

She was exhausted by the time she got back to her room. She was glad she was only helping with breakfast and dinner that way she still got to see Kenshin before he set off for work, though she did miss waking up with him. This morning she’d had to leave him. But just thought of Sano’s eyes going wide when he first took a taste of her food was enough to keep her going. Both Yahiko and Sano would be begging for more. She grinned evilly for a moment before her smile softened. Her main reason for doing it though was so Kenshin could be happy. She wouldn’t disappoint him by demonstrating her lack of skill in the kitchen. She didn’t want him to ever regret marrying a tanuki like her. She would not disillusion him further.

*************

“Ono” Kawamori said gesturing to a seat in front of his desk.

Ono sat down looking a bit uncomfortably.

“Are you up for a trip?” Kawamori asked with a small smile though very seriously.

Ono nodded.

“You’ve sat in on the meeting last night. You know what we’re planning.” Kawamori paused long enough to receive a nod from Ono. “All I need for you to do is deliver a letter to Minami. The letter will be written in code. If it should it be intercepted. None aside from a Mimawari captain would be able to decipher it. Just make sure he gets it.” Kawamori said handing Ono a long envelope.

Ono took it and nodded. “I’ll make sure he gets it.” He placed the letter in his gi and made his way out.

Ono left the room quickly. If he hurried he could make it to Kyoto sometime before mid-day. He grabbed his coat and headed to the back of the house. He left through the back and walked six houses down. Stepping in quietly he removed one of the horses. Every other house down this street belonged to a Mimawari member. Removing the horse he mounted and set off to find Minami.

Kawamori waited some time before stepping into the large hall. He looked around the large empty hall. Just last night it had been filled with two hundred men, all fighting for the same cause. In five days the Meiji Ishin would suffer loss and grief. With all those guards in Kyoto it would be hard to attack directly. But what would happen if there were no guards? A vindictive smile came to his lips. The fates were with him. He would not lose. He refused to loose more than he already had. If only Kisho hadn’t died. He shook his head not wanting to think about it. But he couldn’t help it. If Kisho hadn’t died then his sister would never have killed herself. This hate he had for the Meiji Ishin, it ran deeper than he led on. They killed Kasha. They killed his sister. He fisted his hands in anger. He was going to attack on her birthday. He still wasn’t sure if that was the right thing or not.

He sensed Masashiko enter the room, he perhaps was the only other person in this group who hated the Ishin Shishi as much as he did. They killed his father after all.

“Kawamori-san, Whenever you’re ready. Kazuki and I are ready to leave.” Masashiko said.

With out turning his back Kawamori spoke evenly. “Remember what I said last night. Different directions. And wait till I get there.” Kawamori turned around to emphasize his point. “I will see you in five days.”

“Understood.” Masashiko said nodding his head once.

“May the fates watch over you.” Kawamori said before Masashiko turned around.

He stood there a moment. It’s what his mother had always said to him. Something she’d picked up from his late father. “May they watch over you as well Kawamori-san.” He said before leaving the room.

The air grew colder Kawamori noticed. Soon it would start to snow. ‘Nozomi,’ he thought. His sister had died in the snow, right over Kisho’s grave. Anyone else would hate the snow. But she’d loved it and because of that he still loved it. Turning around he left the empty hall.

Small Notes: The only thing that might make you wonder are the two people I mention at the end. Kisho who'd once been a member of the Mimawari-gumi had fought during the Bakumatsu. He'd lost his life in an ambush by one of the opposing parties. When Kawamori's sister Nozomi heard of Kisho's death she became distraught. She killed herself over his grave one snowy day shortly after

Chapter Eleven

*************

Ono rode his horse down the road until the wee hours of the morning. He arrived in Kawaramachi Sanjo just a bit after sunrise. He slowed his pace from a gallop to a trot. Nearing the back of the house he dismounted. He knew the framework of the property. He left his horse hidden behind some thick trees; no one would spot the horse unless they were looking for it specifically. He peered around the corner before he made his way across. There was no one in the streets. He made his way to the front of the house and waited at the gate. Something that had not been there during the Bakumatsu but was put in after the assassination of the last Ikeda along with several Ishin Shishi members. The door seemed to open on it’s own but he knew better. One of Minami’s guards was already in place. He heard the gate close behind him as he walked to the door. Another guard opened the door for him. He frowned for a moment didn’t Kawamori tell them to not come all at once. He was led to the back where he found a large dinning hall.

“Ono?” Minami looked at him questionably for a moment.

“Minami, Kawamori-san sent me to deliver this to you personally.” He removed the envelope from the gi and handed it over to Minami.

Minami frowned as he took it. Opening it in front of him he began to read.

Aoiya,

Our cousin Kihei will be coming from Yokohama in five days. There are certain things he wants to do when he gets there. Take him to your favorite places. Don’t leave any out. Make sure everyone meets him. I know mom and left you alone but I’ll be there soon. One more thing. Be sure to walk him back. And for fate’s sake don’t let him anger you. I know how easily he ignites your temper.

Your Onii-chan

“So he’s sending Izubuchi to help me slaughter the old members of the Kihei-tai and the Oniwa-banshuu.” He said to Ono. I don’t see why I have to wait for him, he thought as he looked at the note. And five days? That just seems like too much time. “Will Takanashi be setting the fires?” He said finally looking up.

Ono shook his head. “No, Izubuchi and you are alone on this.”

“So let me get this straight. The attack is to be in five days and it should last . . . . ” Minami glanced back at the note and counted the amount of sentences. “ten hours.”

Ono nodded.

“And all survivors are to head back to Yokohama.” Minami asked though it was a rhetorical question.

Again, all Ono did was nod.

“Will you be staying till then?” Minami asked his guest.

“Only till tomorrow. I will leave at sunrise.”

Minami nodded. “All right. Breakfast will be served soon. If you want to sleep you can do it after. Second floor last door on the left.” He finished as he hailed someone to him.

One of his guards came. He bent low and Minami whispered something to him. The guard left soon after.

Ono left the room along with the guard. He went upstairs to check on his room while the guard left the house.

*************

Aoshi looked out the window. There was something wrong. He could feel it deep down. Maybe he should have people patrolling during the day. A presence at the door made him turn around. He took his seat and a moment later a knock was heard.

“Aoshi-sama breakfast is ready.” Misao said poking her head into the room.

He looked at her for a moment. He’d been ready to tell her he wasn’t going to join them. But it was different when he had to actually face her. He stood up and walked out with her to join the others. His thoughts trailed back to Misao as they walked down the hall. When she was younger she always found a way to make him do things he normally wouldn’t do. She’d been a very mischievous child, though not with him. He sat still as they served breakfast. He tried very hard not to think about the past. There was no point.

He felt her gaze on him as they ate breakfast. She’d been doing that since he could remember. It was just different now that she was older. As soon as they finished he rose and walked off with Okina.

Misao stared after him as he walked away. She had a feeling there was something wrong but she knew him. He’d never confide in her. With a deep sigh she finished gathering the plates from the table and went back to the kitchen.

Aoshi felt her eyes on him till him and Okina turned the corner slipping away from her view. They walked till they stood in the yard.

“What is it Aoshi?” Okina asked concerned.

“We need to start patrolling during the day. We have fourteen members here at the Aoiya. I want them to go in two’s. From sunrise to sunset.” Aoshi’s voice took on a commanding quality that Okina had not heard in a long time. It was different, kind of like before.

“Fifteen? You’re not counting Misao.” Okina said with a glint in his eye.

“I’m not.” He stated. It was true he’d excluded Misao from this. He couldn’t say why. He didn’t want to know why.

Okina stared at him. “She won’t like being excluded. You know how she gets.”

Aoshi nodded. She was very temperamental but it was nothing he couldn’t handle.

“I’ll have the others not tell her.” Okina said once he thought it over.

“Shiro and Okon can have the first shift, today.” Aoshi responded to Okina who nodded his head and left. Aoshi stood in the yard for a moment, turning to his left he glanced in the direction of the path leading to the temple. He missed meditating there; it was easier to clear his mind there without all the distractions. At the moment he felt he needed to clear his mind of intrusive thoughts. They were becoming a hindrance.

*************

“They are coming and all you can do is sit here and argue.” Yamagata shook his head sadly.

“How do you know they’re coming? You’ve been saying that for a while now but none of us is dead yet.” Hamasu, a man in his middle forties spoke up.

Yamagata knew himself to be a patient man but sometimes they really tested his limits. He’d never met such a crowd. Not one full of so many idiots. If they would no longer listen then there was nothing he could do about it.

“I am done trying to explain myself at every meeting. I will no longer have contact with you through out the remaining.” Yamagata paused as Himura Kenshin ran out of the room. Everyone in the room looked at each other expectantly. After a long heartbeat they ran to the window to see what was happening. Most caught sight of the hitokiri battoussai leaping of the high wall that surrounded them. They all looked rather uneasy. They looked around the gate to see if there was anyone there, perhaps hiding among the foliage.

The battoussai stood stiffly in front of his opponent. His ki was up high matching the strangers. Golden pools of fire burned in the depths of his eyes while the stranger’s eyes harbored nothing more than an intense cold. Deep in color like chips of ice.

“Battoussai.” It was the only way to address him because that’s who he was.

Kenshin stared at the man in front of him for a long moment before he answered. “Shinomori.”

Aoshi stood in front of a man he’d once hated. A man who’d saved his tethered soul. A man he owed a favor to and a man who’d saved Japan at least twice, if not more.

“Why are you here?” Kenshin asked coldly.

“I could ask the same.” Aoshi retorted in his usual manner of detachment. “Aren’t you out of place?”

Kenshin’s hand gripped the hilt of his katana. And Aoshi fisted his hands inside his pockets.

A crash and the screaming of a woman drew Aoshi’s eyes from his opponent to behind him. He almost smiled.

“Kenshin.” She said breathlessly from a couple of feet away.

The battoussai however did not turn. He kept his challenging gaze on Shinomori Aoshi.

“Go back inside.” He commanded her.

Kaoru opened her mouth.

“Go back.” He said again, cutting off her ranting before it even began. “Why are you here?” He asked Aoshi again.

“I need a word.” Aoshi responded seemingly unnerved.

“Where’s Misao?” Kaoru asked looking behind Aoshi.

Aoshi however kept his mannerism schooled. He didn’t flinch and he didn’t waver. “At the Aoiya.” He responded though it had been harder to sound carelessly.

A smile spread over the battoussai’s face as he spotted the weakness in the other man. His hand dropped from the hilt of his sword. “Talk?” Though with the battoussai questions never sounded like questions.

Aoshi’s eyes narrowed a fraction of a bit. The battoussai considered him weak. Weak. An odd feeling came over him. But he pushed it back down quickly. Aoshi’s kodachi left their sheath. A gasp and the sound of metal emitted in the deserted road. Metal against metal, clashed but once as Aoshi‘s kodachi was stopped from decapitating the battoussai by the battoussai’s katana. Normally Kenshin would push his opponent back and kill them with a basic move but not today. He had an odd sense of deja vu.

“Kenshin-baka!” Kaoru said running to him and hugging him from behind. “Don’t scare me like that,” she whispered in his ear. Looking up she glared at Aoshi. “And you I think you would know better. You just wait till I tell me Misao . . . ”

“Koishii go back inside.” He said to her though he still didn’t turn to face her.

She squeezed him once and let him go. Reluctantly she turned and walked back inside.

Kenshin stared at the other man.

“An informant sent word today. They believe the Mimawari-gumi is in Otsu.” Aoshi said having already put his kodachi away.

Kenshin re-sheathed his sword. “A trap?” Kenshin asked.

“Perhaps.” Aoshi said nonchalantly.

“You think they’re trying to draw us away.” Kenshin finished for him. Kenshin thought for a moment. Yamagata’s informant had said somewhere in Shiga. The place had started with an ‘O.’ “I believe we might find them in Otsu.” Kenshin said after a while.

“I think we could have.” Aoshi said evenly.

The battoussai raised an eyebrow. “Could have?”

“I think they’re gone.” Aoshi responded.

“But you want me to go have a look.” Kenshin said.

“Not specifically. More like the army.” Aoshi answered.

Kenshin frowned out right. Tired of the runaround. “You’re not going either are you?” He said though it was rhetorical. “You think . . . No, you know something will happen if both our groups are gone. Though you think both groups stand a chance better together than alone.”

Aoshi nodded in response.

“I will have Otsu searched. I will tell you what I find.” With out even a bow the battoussai turned his back on Shinomori Aoshi and went back into the Inn.

Aoshi’s eyes narrowed again. Letting go of the expression he turned around and walked back the same way he came.

*************

Kaoru stood in the hall just behind the door. What was taking him so long? Those two could stay in a room for more than a decade and have a but a few words to say to each other. What in the world was taking him so long? She wanted to glance out the door. She wanted to run out there and drag him back. Instead she kept pacing the hall. When the door slid open she jumped. She ran to him and gave him a bone-crushing hug. She pulled away just as quickly. She checked him over. Pushing up his sleeves and running her hands over his arms. Over his neck and on his face. With a sigh of relief. “You’re not injured,” she said. Then she whacked him out of the blue. “Don’t scare me like that.”

He blinked at her confused for the briefest of moments. She had a way of distracting him first before she actually hit him. His eyes, which had been an eerie blue a moment before sparked to life again. Specks of gold reappeared in the depths as he looked at her. His face no longer showed surprise. Shaking his head he tried to step around her.

Kaoru grabbed him by the arm suddenly. She had a tendency to loose her temper she didn’t mean it. “I was just worried.” She said coming closer to him.

“Koishii.” He said trying to not fall into the usual pattern. Her temper usually sparked amusement, which led to other things. Things that could distract him for hours. He blinked back enforcing his restrains, on his need. “I have to talk to Yamagata.”

She stood in front of him holding his arm. “Will I see you before you leave tonight?”

He looked at her, caught in the dark pools of blue reflecting his image. Maybe just one kiss. One kiss couldn’t do any harm and he really did have a lot of self control. He could stop after just the one. He grabbed her suddenly bring her close to him and kissed her. Her eyes had widened before they closed contently. She hardly put up a resistance he noticed. He tilted her head back, squeezing her waist a little harder.

He stopped abruptly when he noticed he’d leaned her against the wall. Licking his lips he stepped back. Her eyes were just opening. She gave him a lazy look. “Later.” He said before he turned around and walked to Yamagata’s room. He passed by the open door of the dining hall. He didn’t have to glance in to know they were still in there. All but Yamagata.

He knocked on the door. “We need to talk.”

The door opened and Yamagata allowed him entrance. “Who was it?” Yamagata asked once they were seated inside.

“Shinomori Aoshi.”

Yamagata opened his mouth and frowned. He didn’t get it. He looked at his old friend for clarification.

“He received word today. The Mimawari-gumi is in Otsu.” Kenshin said.

“Oh so they were in Shiga.” Yamagata said then frowned again. “There’s something else.”

Kenshin nodded. “He believes they’re gone, now. I need for you to have an outside group check on this.”

Yamagata nodded. “We can go send word right now. With any luck I can get the police to start searching tonight.”

Yamagata and Kenshin got to their feet and both walked out of the room. Taking long strides down the hall, they made their way out. Others who’d just finished eating stared after them curiously.

*************

Minami sat in the middle of the dinning hall with all his men. He was glad he’d sent for them since the last batch saw a couple patrolling. During the day, which was odd in itself. Oniwa-banshuu would be his guess since it seemed that Yamagata only let his guards out at night.

Night had set in. After tonight there would be but four days. The countdown had begun and he was glad. After loosing some of his men . . . . He really needed to show Kawamori that he wasn’t a failure. That he could live up to his name. Perhaps never to the greatness of his father. But enough to maybe make Kawamori proud.

He hated been forced to lay low. He wondered what Takanashi was doing. Why didn’t Kawamori send him instead of Izubuchi? Kawamori was very aware of how much hate existed between them. With any luck Izubuchi wouldn’t get here till the fourth day was nearly over. Drinking the last bit of his tea, he turned his cup down. ‘Time for sleep,’ he thought warily.

*************

Tanaka watched as the cigarette was lit. After a moment a puff of smoke wafted in the air. The sun had come out much later today that it usually did. The morning air was chilling. Yet the worst of the winter was yet to come.

“We all have to wait.” Tanaka said after a moment.

Saitou only nodded. He’d been hoping that he could get away. To head ahead of them. And usually he would have but things were different. After the near massacre some weeks ago old ranks had been reestablished as well as new captains. More Shinsegumi member had appeared in the last weeks and now they would all travel together to Shiga. Taking a long drag of his cigarette he waited.

“Not much longer,” Tanaka said after about an hour.

By now though his inpatients had grow into bitter annoyance. Why couldn’t the battoussai go and check on this. Was he not closer? Having exhausted four cigarettes in the last hour. He dropped the bud of the fifth on the floor and stomped it out viciously. As soon as this was over. His thoughts trailed back to their last meeting, to the last time their swords had crossed paths. ‘He uses a katana again,’ he thought as he leaned against a wall. It wasn’t that he was hoping to get slashed and run though with the battoussai’s katana but the blood always did make the battle more exciting.

“Saitou-san we’re ready.” Tanaka said before taking his place in the back of the line. Saitou nodded and took his place in the long line. His group would set off first. Closely followed by the others with only an hour in difference. That way if someone was waiting for them they’d get a nasty surprise when their reinforcement showed up. That was the reason the strongest group was going in first, they could hold off any number of men for at least twice the time the second group of Shinsegumi needed.

People wouldn’t think it was so odd for a group of policemen to walk down the road. What they did find odd was the fact they were walking in formation. These men were disciplined. People eyed the swords warily. After the incident a few weeks ago shouldn’t there be police coming into Osaka instead of leaving. Some people tilted their heads in confusion. They’d never seen the police walk into town yet they were all leaving.

‘Wait hadn’t the policemen been killed.’

Saitou’s face broke off into a small grin. So the people around these parts weren‘t so stupid after all. No matter the disguise had not been meant for them but for whom they meant to encounter in Shiga.

“Do you think he will be in Shiga?” Tanaka asked when he saw Saitou smile.

“No.” Saitou responded sobering up. Though he wished he were. He’d been practicing ever since he found out the battoussai was back.

“So he’s still in Kyoto then.” Tanaka said loudly enough for only Saitou to hear. There were many Shinsegumi who feared the battoussai. “Did you know he was attacked a while back?”

Saitou turned his head and gave Tanaka a look.

Tanaka smiled. So he didn’t know. “Well it was four men. One attacked him in Kawaramachi Sanjo a few streets from the Old Ikeda house. You remember that house right?” Tanaka said smiling again. “Yes well, he left shortly after he killed the man. He was smart though I will tell you this. He figured he was being followed because he led them to the outskirts of town. Killed the other three right by the river. No hesitation.” Tanaka paused in his story then and after a moment he spoke again. “ I’d liked to fight him jus once.”

Saitou looked at Tanaka like he was crazy. “He’d kill you.”

Tanaka smiled. ‘Saitou-san was a weird man,’ he thought. It was dangerous to go up against the battoussai yet Saitou was more than willing. He was eager. Turning his eyes back to the road he wondered if Saitou would let him watch his fight against the battoussai. Some of the other members spoke about the hate they felt for each other. It’s one of the reasons why some of the Shinsegumi thought they were being kept away from Kyoto. The battoussai hated them and since Yamagata was in charge. An Ishin Shishi, of course he’d take the battoussai’s advice and keep them away.

Saitou wondered what Tanaka was thinking. Sometimes he reminded him of that freaky kid they’d met, ‘Soujiro.’ Two days. That’s about how long it would take for them to get there. Fisting his hands he walked down the road occasionally answering one of Tanaka’s questions. His mind revolved around the on single thought. What would it be like this time around?

*************

Today was his last day patrolling for the week. He would be glad to finally be able to spend some time with his wife. The air had chilled and it looked like it would begin to snow one of these days. Being in Kyoto he wondered if his shishou knew he was here. He’d been angry when they’d departed. He sighed into the night as he walked down the empty streets. No word had come back from Shiga yet. He’d hoped that Yamagata had called in an army and not the Shinsegumi though he had a feeling. He didn’t want to question Yamagata but . . . . He shook his head and paused in his step. He stepped closer to the shadows of the building and waited.

“No there’s trouble all over the place.”

“My cousin send word from Osaka and he said my uncle had nearly fainted when he saw the Shinsegumi coming into town.”

“Isn’t your uncle a pretty big guy?”

“Yep, he is.”

“Hmm, next thing you know the hitokiri battoussai will come into this.”

The voices trailed off as they past the battoussai. Hidden by the darkness neither man noticed the stillness in the air as they walked by. The battoussai stepped away after sometime and continued his walk down the now empty street. He could still here faint laughter as he walked away. He briefly wondered if he should have revealed himself to them. That would have really frightened them, kept them at home for several days. He shook his head to clear the thought. He didn’t remember having a sick sense of humor. All though there had always been stuff he’d wanted to do. Half the people who met him seemed to want to jump away once they found out his name. It annoyed him. It really did make him want to give them a reason to be frightened off him.

He walked around the rest of the night aimlessly. Down the same familiar streets. For someone who’s supposed to kill a lot he hadn’t killed anyone in several days. He didn’t know if that was a good or bad.

Wouldn’t it mean they were regrouping? Plotting. He rather have them coming at him every night then for them to suddenly disappear for several days and then attack. Only innocent people could get hurt in what they were planning. The assassinations had also stopped. That made him uneasy as well.

Kenshin had made it back to the Inn after having encountered no trouble. Though he’d though he’d sensed something in Kawamarachi Sanjo again. He’d lingered there for several minutes but nothing had turned up. Still he’d walked out of that particular street extra carefully. His hand never left the hilt of his sword as he made his exit. He made his way to his room and slid the door open. He changed his clothing and got under the covers with her. He didn’t feel sleepy tonight. There was something nagging at him. Something he didn’t quite understand. A warning. Like something was coming. He lay on his back with her head on his chest. He undid the braid and ran his fingers though the long silky hair. She’d bathed before bed. It was just a bit damp right at the neck. He could smell her. Her smell was always strongest after she took a bath. Jasmine.

“Kenshin?”

He looked down to see her face lifting. Her eyes tried to blink the sleep away. She yawned before she spoke again. “Is there something wrong? Did something happen?”

“No.” He responded still running his hand through the hair. “Nothing.”

“Does that bother you?” She asked crossing her arms over his chest and resting her head so she could look at him.

His hand drifted away from the hair sliding to her shoulder. “It’s just odd.” He said moving the material of the yukata to the side exposing a shoulder.

“Odd how?”

His hand massaged the bare shoulder moving the yukata back bit by bit. He had half a mind to tell her this didn‘t concern her. Or that it wasn’t any of her business. Still tonight was different. “They’re planning something.”

Kaoru’s mouth opened, forming a small ‘oh.’ “So you thing they’re laying low so they can attack us by surprise?”

He took a chance and glanced at her angelic face. “Something like that.” He said as his hand went back into her hair. She smiled at him and leaned into the caress. “Would you leave here if I asked?” He asked suddenly and her eyes flew open.

“Are you worried Kenshin?” She paused biting her lip. “I won’t run in after you if that’s what you’re afraid off.” She said though maybe with a bit of panic in her voice.

His hand left her hair and went to the other shoulder. Moving the yukata back little by little. “I guess that’s a no.” He said as he exposed that shoulder too.

She was surprised by the tone. It was almost like he was amused. “Kenshin I’d like to send word to Tokyo.” She said as she felt his hand running over the back of her yukata.

His hands moved over her back, stopping at the waist. He liked her waist. A smile played on his lips. To be honest he liked all her parts. He looked at her noting she watched him expectantly. “Would you like to go to the Aoiya tomorrow?”

Her mouth fell open. She didn’t expect that. “Yes, that would be nice.” She said sounding shocked. “Will you be taking me?”

“Yes.” He answered as he moved his hands away from her lower back and to the front of her waist. Kaoru felt him tugging at the sash holding her yukata in place. “Kenshin.” She said warningly.

“Yes koishii.” He said having worked the sash free. She felt one last tug as he slipped it out of place and tossed it to the side away from them. A smile tugged at her lips though she didn’t want to encourage him. She moved her arms out of the way and bent her head back to his chest. She could hear the beating of his heart. She felt him extending her arms over him raised over her head so that the palms rested on the futon right on the side of his face. With another quick tug she felt her yukata pulled off. She gasped in surprise lifting her head to look at him. Her eyes narrowed even as she bent her head low so he could see her chest. “Kenshin.” She said and this time there was anger behind those words. It wasn’t a threat anymore she was willing to pummel him. What kind of manhandling . . . . Her eyes focused on his smile. “Do I amuse you?”

‘Yes,’ he thought. But he’d learned better than to voice out such thoughts. She was a vindictive little thing. He kept quiet instead running his hand over the smoothness of her back. She shivered and his smile slowly slipped away. The color of his eyes transitioned from one shade into another. Running his hands slower this time stopping when he reached the curve of her lower back. He gripped her by the waist maybe a little too roughly and pulled her up his body until she was aligned with him. Her shallow breath wafted over him. She was only a breath away.

She looked into his eyes. Eyes she’d once been afraid of but now she didn’t know if she could live without them. Her eyes left his momentarily darting to his lips . . . waiting . . . expecting . . .

He watched her but made no other move. Even when she licked her lips, an invitation in it’s own right. He didn’t move.

She watched him a bit longer before she lowered her mouth to his slowly. Kissing him softly.

He however had waited long enough and changed the kiss from soft to something more . . . .

*************

Kaoru yawned even as she walked down the busy streets of Kyoto. Kenshin smirked as he walked along her side. She was still too sleepy to notice. He walked close to her just incase. They walked slowly more for her benefit than his. He stopped in front of the Aoiya and looked for Kaoru who’d kept on going. “Koishii.” He said grabbing her by the arm. She blinked at him in surprise. He led her to the front. And she frowned. She hadn’t noticed they were there yet.

“Misao.” Kaoru called out running to her friend who’d just as she’d stepped out.

“Kaoru.” She called back in the same tone. “I was coming out here to help them out. I was bored but you’re here now and we can go and talk . . . .” Misao’s words trailed off.

Kaoru knew she’d spotted Kenshin. Kaoru extended her hand behind her so he would come. He came to her and stood by her side. His face betraying nothing.

Misao had looked from his hair to his gi to his eyes. “So this is what the battoussai looks like. He’s almost as beautiful as Aoshi-sama.”

Kaoru opened her mouth to berate her but Kenshin nudged her. She glanced behind Misao and a smile spread over her lips. Misao was still to busy admiring the new Himura Kenshin to notice.

“ . . . . . almost as beautiful as Aoshi-sama.” Aoshi stood where he was, having the feeling he’d walked into something.

Himura and his wife stood in front of Misao. Both looked amused. Kaoru said something he could not hear. “I can see why you think that but I’ll stick with my Aoshi-sama.”

His eyebrow raised despite his schooled manner.

“Misao-chan.” Her head turned to Jiya though she never quite saw him. Her eyes focused on the tall figure standing in front of the door.

“Aoshi-sama.” She felt the color drain out of her face before it returned. A deep crimson color came over her features.

“Aoshi I though you were coming to get her?” Jiya said pushing Aoshi to the side to he could squeeze through. “Oh, Kaoru-san . . . Himura” He said as he spotted the girl and then her . . . . husband.

“Misao why don’t you take them in for some tea.” Jiya said to Misao whom he noticed looked at the floor trying to hide her blush. He looked at Aoshi who still stood there looking at her. That was odd in itself. He had a tendency for running away.

Misao looked up Kaoru who smiled gently at her. “Let’s go Misao she said softly. It had really been mean of her to do that. But she shouldn’t have said Aoshi was better looking than her husband was. Kenshin was by far the better looking of the two what with his beautiful hair and his eyes. Always so alluring.

“Koishii,” He said nudging her again. That seemed to get her out of her thoughts. She looked at him and her face began to burn as well. He eyed her suspiciously. “What were you thinking about?” He asked her as they walked into the Aoiya.

“Nothing.” She muttered. She could see Misao straining to hear, not to mention Aoshi had come inside with them.

They sat down sat down and not a second later Omasu came in with some tea and snacks for them. Setting the tray down she knew Misao would be the one to serve them. Kaoru put out the cups as Misao put out the plates. Kaoru served the treats as Misao served the tea. She handed the cup to her Aoshi-sama first then to Himura. She tipped the teapot over when Kuro came running in. “Aoshi-sama.”

Aoshi set his cup and rose followed by Kenshin.

Misao and Kaoru exchanged looks before they crept closer to where Kuro had lead the other two.

“. . . . were attacked by one of the Mimawari-gumi just outside of Shiga. They were waiting. Yatsume said it was a blood bath. It’s hard to tell how many died from each side. The oddest thing though is both groups were dressed like cops.” Kuro finished shaking his head.

Kaoru and Misao exchanged looks before they tried to crawl closer so they could see their expressions.

“I need to tell Yamagata.” Kenshin said to Aoshi. “You stay here with Misao koishii; I’ll be back for you.” Kenshin said knowing she was nearby.

Kenshin turned to Aoshi. “Let’s go,” he said before they ran out.

Misao and Kaoru stood with their mouths slightly open. “Do you think Aoshi-sama knew I was here too?” Misao asked.

“I think so Misao.” Kaoru said as she rose of her stomach. “They pretty much have the same ability, which reminds me he came over the other day. Scared the entire inn half to death. Kenshin just ran out to face him.”

“Oh no.” Misao said though a little excitedly. “What happened?”

“Aoshi just pulled out his kodachi for no reason. If Kenshin hadn’t pulled out his sword.” Kaoru shook her heading clearing her mind. “Anyways I threatened to tell you.”

“That didn’t do much good did it?” Misao said shaking her own head in sad amusement.

“Well it’s not so much what he said. It was more like this look he got.” Kaoru said as she took her seat back by the table again. “It clouded his eyes for less than a heartbeat but it was there.”

Misao stared at Kaoru not wanting to get her hopes up. She simply nodded.

Kaoru drank her tea and only picked at her snack much like Misao was doing. Misao looked back at Kaoru. “You know,” she began. Kaoru shook her head not wanting to listen. “I was only going to ask about the rooster and the kid?”

Kaoru’s mouth opened, ‘that’s right she’d completely forgotten about them.’ She looked at Misao a little guiltily. “I need to send them word.”

Misao’s eyes lit up. “Let’s go then.”

They rose quickly and then rushed off. Kaoru stopped at the entrance when she saw three male figures standing watch. Misao frowned, grabbing Kaoru’s hand in the process. Kaoru looked upset for a moment before she tugged on Misao’s hand bringing her along.

“Himura-san. Your husband sent us to protect you and your friend.” Yasuo, a tall man with deep black hair maybe in his early forties addressed Kaoru.

Kaoru looked at the man completely bewildered. “There’s no danger here.” She said looking at them strangely. The men exchanged looks.

“I don’t think the battoss . . . I mean Himura would sent us if he didn’t think there was danger.” Yasuo insisted.

Kaoru rolled her eyes. “He’s over protective.” Turning away from the men she tugged on Misao’s hand. “Come on, I want to go and send word to Tae and Yahiko.”

The men exchanged glances and smiled at each other. “She’s a handful I hear.” One whispered to the others. They followed her at a close distance. Aside from the women who worked at the Inn, Himura Kaoru was the only other woman staying there. She was by far the youngest and the prettiest.

Kaoru paused in front of a vendor. Misao looked down to see what had caught her eye. Both girls looked at the item perplexed.

“Ah, you girls are interested in the lure.” A plump elderly woman said to them after seeing them approach the table.

“The what?” Kaoru asked.

“The LURE.” She said smiling broadly. “It’s a special kind of rubbing oil.” She said while leaning in. Talking to them almost secretively.

Kaoru and Misao exchanged looks.

“What do you mean?” Kaoru asked her.

The woman looked at their innocent faces for a moment. For a moment she was unsure whether she should continue or not but a sale was a sale. Even if that meant corrupting some young girls. “Why don’t I show you what I mean by special.” She said taking out a bit out of one of the bottles and pouring it into her palm. Not a lot just three drops. “One of you needs to pull back her sleeve.”

Kaoru looked at Misao. She’d asked the questions so she nodded her head at Misao. Misao though shook her head. Kaoru glared at Misao for a bit but she rolled her sleeve up nonetheless.

The woman smiled reassuringly when Kaoru’s smooth arm was exposed. She rubbed the oil on to the skin of the inner part of her arm quickly. But she didn’t let her go. She held Kaoru by the wrist for a moment.

Kaoru felt her arm tingle a bit but that was all. She looked at the woman again not sure what it was so supposed to do. Kaoru was about to open her mouth when the woman leaned forward again and flew on her arm. Kaoru jerked her arm away as a strong shiver ran up her back. The sensation lasted a moment but it had made Kaoru remember Kenshin’s touch. Kaoru looked at the woman who smiled in return.

“For your boyfriend?” She said slyly.

Kaoru licked her lips. She was very unsure. So she leaned over and whispered in Misao’s ear. Misao who’d looked confused. Frowned as Kaoru said something. Understanding came to Misao after a moment accompanied by a deep blush.

“I’ll take one.” Misao said and Kaoru’s mouth fell open.

“I guess I’ll take one too.” Kaoru said a bit more hesitantly than Misao.

The woman nodded and began wrapping the bottles. No need for others to know what they bought.

The girls took their bottles and began walking down the street again.

Tetsu, Tomoyuki and Yasuo, the guards Kenshin had sent to protect Kaoru smiled at each other knowingly. They didn’t realize she was so naive.

Kaoru yawned as she finally stepped into the mailing shop. She took some parchment set up by the wall and began to write.

Tae-chan,

I’m sorry I haven’t written before but things have gotten kind of complicated. There is trouble here in Kyoto and so Kenshin has stayed to help. How are you and the others? Fine I hope. There is much I have to tell you though and I rather it was face to face rather than in a letter. How is Yahiko? I’m writing to him as well but I’m afraid he might not be as honest as I would like. Is he eating, do you know? Sleeping all right?

I hope this letter finds you all well. Please give my regards to every one. I apologize for making it so short. I will try harder to keep in touch. I’m not sure when we’ll be back but I’m hoping for sometime next month. Until the next time take care.

- Himura Kaoru

“Are you sure you want to sign it like that Kaoru?” Misao said as she peered at it over her shoulder.

“What’s wrong with it?” Kaoru asked as she turned to look at Misao.

“Well you know how they are. Don’t you think you signing it like that will have them running over here to see what’s going on.” Misao said thoughtfully.

Kaoru looked over the note and then added.

You keep my last name to yourself. When I left they were mad at Kenshin and I don’t want any trouble. Please Tae.

“That better?” Kaoru said putting the letter to the side.

“Much,” Misao said sitting down next to Kaoru.

Yahiko-chan,

How are you? More importantly, how’s my dojo? I hope you’ve kept up with the cleaning other wise when I get home you’ll be sure to clean it all by yourself. There’s a lot going on here in Kyoto. I hope you’re not staying out late. It’s dangerous out at night. Don’t stuff your face at Tae’s or you’re going to be too fat to train. Don’t neglect your exercises you hear me. Don’t stick your tongue at me Yahiko-CHAN. And DON’T call me a hag!!!!

Be good Yahiko. It will be about a month before I get back. If you need money tell me and I will send you some. I will write to you soon. Take care.

- Kamiya Kaoru

“That one’s good.” Misao commented with a big smile.

Kaoru smiled. “Yeah I think so too.”

She put her letters into envelopes and handed them to the man at the desk. She handed him some money and left with Misao.

“It’ll be days before they get them but at least they’ll get them.” Kaoru said a bit sadly.

“You want to go to Shukou’s?” Misao asked suddenly.

Kaoru looked at her somewhat puzzled.

“Misao gave her a disbelieving look. You’ve been here for than a week and you haven’t gone there?” Misao exclaimed.

Kaoru shook her head, no.

“Kaoru it’s only the best place to shop. It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen before. They carry all sorts of things. They specially cater to women. Plus they carry a lot of foreign things. Come on lets go.” Misao grabbed her by the arm and led her off.

“Exactly where is this place?” Kaoru asked after they’d been walking for sometimes without stopping.

“The outskirts of town?” Misao responded.

Kaoru made a face but kept on walking. She wasn’t sure Kenshin would like this, I mean if the men told him. She half glanced back and sure enough there they were.

Tomoyuki even had the nerve to wave at her.

Kaoru paused mid step.

“What’s wrong Kaoru?” Misao asked looking in the same direction she was.

“I saw something move,” she said in somewhat of a whisper. “Over there.” She said pointing to far off to the right. “In the woods.”

Misao stared until she saw something move. She exchanged looks with Kaoru before they stared in that direction.

“Himura-san.” Yasuo called to her in sort of a hiss as they walked further into the woods.

Kaoru half glanced at them as they crept closer to the movement. Misao pushed her down before they made it to a clearing. “Look over there.” She whispered.

Kaoru obeyed and looked into the clearing. She heard the guards creeping closer too. “Who do you think they are?” Kaoru whispered to Misao as she kept her eyes on the five men in the clearing. “They look like they’re waiting for someone. Don’t you think?” Kaoru said to Misao again.

“Mimawari-gumi.”

Kaoru’s eyes turned to Yasuo. Why? A twig broke and all of them turned to look at Tetsu.

‘Sorry.’ he mouth but it was too late.

“Go back.” Yasuo said to Kaoru and Misao as he stood up.

“What are you doing?” Kaoru hissed trying to grab his arm.

Every one else turned to look back at the clearing but the men were gone.

Tetsu and Tomoyuki looked at each other before crawling closer. Kaoru and Misao looked at each other in bewilderment. “Come back, here.” Misao hissed.

‘Go back,’ Tetsu mouthed to them.

“Kaoru I think maybe we should go back. I mean these guys belonged to the Kihei-tai once right. And they’ve lived this long I’m sure they’ll make it back.” Misao spoke strongly though her voice lacked conviction.

Kaoru looked hesitant but nodded in the end. They started to crawl back when they heard the sound of metal. They both gasped and turned back to see Tetsu’s head flying to the ground. Their eyes widen simultaneously.

“Filthy bastard!” Yasuo snarled as he launched himself at the man who’d decapitated his friend.

Kaoru watched apprehensively as Yasuo exchanged blows with the other man neither gaining ground over the other. After a moment though the man pushed Yasuo back with his sword. “You are no match me. Why don’t you run back to you’re people.” He said turning his back to Yasuo.

Yasuo yelled in anger before launching himself again. “Mimawari trash is no better than a dead dog.”

The other man turned back then. “I’m the fifth captain of the Mimawari-gumi.” He said thrusting his sword into Yasuo before pulling it out. “No fucking Ishin Shishi can beat me. Not even your legendary battoussai will stand against my sword.” He said as Yasuo struck out in blind anger,

“The battoussai will kill you mark my words you son-of a bitch.” Yasuo stumbled back after being slashed in the chest.

Kaoru tried to rise but Tomoyuki pushed her down. “Go back and warn them. They are here. Do you understand? They are here.” With that Tomoyuki ran into the clearing in time to stop the strangers blade from killing Yasuo.

“Izubuchi-san.” another called out.

“Don’t Mori. I can handle this.”

Small Notes: Ok, I will begin with the Kihei-tai. That was the name of Katsura’s forces during the Bakumatsu. It was made up of men who surpassed regular samurai in skill.

There are certain things I hope you guys picked up on as you've been reading.

1) Minami didn't get punished like a normal soldrier beacuse his father once saved Kawamori's life.

2) Minami hated Izubuchi and vise versa.

3) We have finally reach the fourth day when Izubuchi made his appearence.

I mentioned Soujiro though he won't play a part in this fic. But for those who don't know him . . . .

Seta Soujiro's story is without a doubt one of the most tragic. Probably second only to Kenshin's. He was the product of adultery (father conceived him with a prostitute) but in order to save face, the family just adopted him as their son. The family owned a rice distribution company which is sort of key in the whole thing. After Soujiro's real father passed away, he was abused something horrid by his family members. They were often drunk and beat him for the smallest things. Through these experiences, Soujiro began to hide/surpress his emotions because when he smiled, the beatings would stop.

One evening while taking rice back to the storage shed, Soujiro witnesses a swordsman wrapped in numerous bandages killing a police officer. When the swordsman's attention is drawn to the young boy, he says that he has to kill him. At this, Soujiro smiles. The swordsman (if you haven't figured it out by now, it's ShiShio) asks for food and clean bandages in return for his life, and Soujiro scampers off.

Soujiro continues to bring ShiShio food and bandages for a short period of time. During these visits, ShiShio talks to him, filling him with his own philosophies (only the strong survive, the weak have to die). During one of the visits, ShiShio gives Soujiro his sword and more or less tells him to go kill his family. Soujiro can't bring himself to do it so he hides the sword away.

Of course, reports of a bandaged killer have been spreading all over the neighborhood. Finally, someone notices that all the bandages in the house are gone and knowing that Soujiro has been using them, they all go after him. The poor kid runs to where the sword was hidden and ends up killing every last member of his adoptive family (it's either him or them, right?). After murdering them all, he stands in the rain, smiling; but the rain hides his tears.

Ok, maybe I mentioned more than I should have but at least you have an Idea. All I should have said was that for a while there he was deadly competition. (During the Kyoto Arch.) Something Kenshin eventually overcame though.

Now in the first part of the chapter I mentioned that the Shinsegumi were waiting around in Osaka. When their group was complete they headed off for Shiga which is next to Kyoto by the way. From what Kuro reports to Aoshi and Kenshin, you can see that the Shinsegumi were ambushed sometime before they made it to Shiga. So far though you can't tell how many died and from what side. Both sides were wearing policemen uniforms.

I hope you guys are ready for the next chapter. I feel like we’re finally going to get to the good stuff. I was tired of waiting around myself. I want to thank all those who reviewed. I really appreciate it since inspiration is hard to find sometimes.

Chapter Twelve

*************

Tomoyuki threw himself at Izubuchi in an attack similar to the Shogunate. It caught him by surprise but Izubuchi recovered quickly avoiding the blade and striking his own blade into Tomoyuki’s knee. Misao began to tremble with the feeling to stay and fight and the feeling to flee.

“Let’s go Misao. We have to warn the others.” Kaoru said brokenly.

Misao, whose eyes had misted over nodded and crawled back with her. The sound of metal clashed as they crawled back. They could hear the cries of enragement coming from Yasuo and Tomoyuki. They were attacking together most likely.

They made it to the edge of the trees and began running as soon as they made it to the main road. They ran until they made it to Inn. They were both breathless when they got there. The door opened and allowed them access. Kaoru and Misao ran into the dinning hall. Looking for Kenshin or Aoshi.

“Kaoru, they’re not here.” Misao almost whimpered.

“I know Misao, I know.” They left the room and stopped in the hall. Let’s try his room.” Together they ran through a couple of halls before stopping in front of a door.

Yamagata opened the door. He looked alarmed. “What’s wrong?” He asked taking them by the arm and leading them in.

Kaoru looked around in disappointment. “They’re not here.”

Yamagata looked at them. “No, they left some time ago. They’ve gone to send word to Yatsume and to see if they can round up more help.” He said to them. He couldn’t help but notice they looked frightened.

“The Mimawari-gumi is here.” Kaoru said shaking just a bit.

“They’re hiding in the outskirts of town. They got. They got . . . .” Misao couldn’t bring herself to get the words out. They were stuck in her throat, choking her.

“They got Tetsu, Tomoyuki and Yasuo.” “Kaoru finished. “Some man named . . . . Izubuchi.”

Misao looked thoughtful for a moment. “He said he was fifth captain of the Mimawari-gumi.”

Yamagata had heard enough. “I will have the woods searched.” He rose leaving them alone in his room.

“Kaoru we need to get back.” Misao said nervously.

“Why, we’re safe here.” She responded.

Misao shook her head. “They will expect to find us at the Aoiya. I don’t know about you but I want them to find us there.”

“All right. I’ll just grab another kimono and I’ll change there.” Kaoru said as they both got up. They went to her room where she took a kimono out hastily. “Let’s go.” She said after stuffing a thing or two into a bag.

They walked down the road with another guard. This time they stuck close to him. Fukuyama kept a watch full eye on his surroundings. He kept a hand on the hilt of his word. Though he’d feel better if it was already drawn.

The walk back to the Aoiya seemed to take three times as long as it usually did. They walked back silently. The girls glancing around nervously. They could fight and maybe even win against one or two of the Mimawari but eventually they’d fall in battle.

Okina stood outside the Aoiya, waiting. “Where have you girls been? I saw Aoshi and Himura heading out. You were not supposed to leave.” He gave them a scrutinizing look. “What happened?” He asked them when they entered.

“Are you coming in?” Misao asked Fukuyama.

“No, I will remain out here till another relieves me.” He responded. Misao nodded and then he turned.

Okina waited till they were seated and with a small cup of sake in their belly before he asked them. “What happened?”

Misao and Kaoru, who sat huddled together, had finally released a bit of the tension their body had held. With a sigh Misao began to retell what had happened out in the forest. Kaoru filled in certain parts when Misao paused or seemed to forget.

Okina looked thoughtful for a moment. “I see, so the fight grows near.”

“Jiya, what do you expect to happen?” Misao asked having watched his expression.

Kaoru could only imagine what it would be like. Having been attacked in Izu, she imagined it would be like that. Dark and cold when they attacked. Dozens of them against Kenshin and a few others. Her heart tightened and she looked down hiding her face.

“Destruction and disarray.” He responded.

“I don’t remember the Bakumatsu but it will be like that won’t it?” Misao said distraughtly.

“Something like it.” Okina said.

Kaoru’s head snapped back up. Kenshin had said that.

“You seemed worried Kaoru.” Okina inquired.

“It’s. It’s just . . . I don’t know where Kenshin is.” Kaoru paused. “I worry.”

Misao who’d looked somewhat at ease a moment before now looked worried too. If Kaoru was worried about Kenshin who’s skill just slightly surpassed her Aoshi-sama’s then she really had something to worry about. What if he got killed during this? She blinked back the tears threatening to spill. She never though about him dying. The thought just seemed so unlikely. Absurd. But now . . . . .it might be more than a possibility.

“I think maybe you girls should rest. We may all have to flee in the middle of the night.” He said to them with a very serious look.

The girls looked at each other before they rose. “Kaoru you can sleep in my room.” Misao said as they walked to her room. Kaoru nodded and followed her.

*************

“Why the hell did you bring everyone here?” Minami was steaming mad.

Izubuchi though looked uninterested. “I’m not going anywhere without my men.” He said darkly.

Minami fisted his hands. He and his men had spent the last couple of day hiding like rats and this . . . . this . . . . He just comes along and brings his whole fucking army in here with him. During the DAY when people can see him.

“Look Kawamori said to lay low and wait till the fifth day before we start anything.” Minami said through a clenched jaw.

Izubuchi gave him a nasty look before he left to his room.

Minami gave a shuddering breath and stalked back to the dinning were his men were. He had been waiting for the day to draw near but he hated seeing Izubuchi. With any luck he’d meet his end here. Whether at the hands of their enemy or his own was yet to be decided.

He took a seat in front of his men. He had waved dismissively at two of his personal guards and they walked out to guard the doors. Once he was sure there would be no one listening to them. He began. “We will set the fires and engage only the police.” His men broke out in protest. “I know someone you were looking forward to this.” Al lot of his men nodded in confirmation. “However, you must remember that the Battoussai is here. And though it’s been some ten years since his last appearance on a battlefield. I will remind you he killed all of Ono’s men. I don’t know how he and Touya survived but I don’t think we’ll all be that lucky. If any will die here it will be Izubuchi and his men. Not us. We’ll make it to Yokohama, where we’ll fight alongside Kawamori and the others.” His men remained silent. He knew they didn’t agree with the change in tactics. “All right then, who here volunteers to fight the Oniwa-banshuu.” He looked around. “ I won’t get mad. If you are willing to stay and fight then that’s fine. A group of you can stay and engage the Oniwa-banshuu” Still none of his men said anything. “Did you want to stay and fight the Ishin Shishi?”

For grown men they acted like children sometimes he thought. Shaking his head. He’d spent over a year with these guys and he didn’t want to see them die. Not here anyways.

“Our plan will proceed like these.” Minami said taking away the offer of choice. “We will leave at midnight tomorrow night. We well separate into two groups. One will burn the police station and anyone inside who can raise the alarm. As soon as the fire is out the group will disband into sets of two. Should you engage the enemy.” And he really stressed the word SHOULD. “You silence them as fast as you can. Even if you don’t kill him, slash his throat or cut his tongue out. Just don’t let him raise the alarm. Other policemen and guards here will come when they see the fire. They will head for the police station. You kill them when you see them.” He looked at them intently. “The second group will wait in town. Despite our efforts I know Izubuchi. He won’t care what he does and that will raise the alarm. This group will wait in sets of three in the streets leading off to the main road. You engage only the men.” He looked at them again. “Do you understand?” Snapped at them.

“Yes sir.” They voiced in unison.

“We will leave at dawn. No matter where you are. You get out, odds are we will be separated and we will get attacked on the road to Yokohama. That is why you have to stick to your inner groups.” With a deep sigh he sat back into his place. “I’d like to let you out tonight. Enjoy Kyoto maybe a woman or two. But . . .” He knew he was making a sour face. “Because of him now I can’t risk exposing us. We’d become the target and loose the element of surprise.” He moved away from his sitting position and moved away to the window. His men sat still. Minami removed a straw from his gi. He put it to his lips and blew something out.

“whhhp.”

“Two of you go out there and hide him where Izubuchi won’t find him.” He heard several footsteps before he even turned around. ‘That’ll teach the bastards for sending someone to spy on him,’ he thought darkly.

*************

Kenshin and Aoshi approached the Aoiya sometime after twilight. They’d run around all day going as far as Hyogo were they met some contacts.

Kenshin eyed the guard suspiciously. “Why are you here?” He asked Fukuyama.

“Yamagata told me to take over watch.” Fukuyama said not really looking him in the eyes.

“Where are the others?” Kenshin asked though his voice took on a threatening quality.

“He didn’t say.” Fukuyama answered quickly.

Kenshin eyed him once more before continuing his walk inside with Aoshi.

They walked in to see everyone eating. Almost everyone. Kaoru and Misao sat a bit to the side looking glum.

Misao and Kaoru’s head snapped up at the same time. Relief crossed their features before they ran up to them.

Only Kaoru however threw herself at Kenshin in reassuring hug. Misao had stopped in front of Aoshi knowing she couldn’t hug him like that, especially in front of people.

“What happened?” Aoshi asked looking at Misao face which had little scratches all over the place.

Kaoru hugged Kenshin tighter at the question unwilling to let him go.

“We . . .” Misao said pausing to lick her lips. They were going to get mad. “We were out in town and . . . .”

“You were what.” Kenshin bellowed. He’d pushed Kaoru back and was looking at her guilty face.

Kaoru looked at him a bit defiantly. “You never said we couldn’t leave the Aoiya.” She said stubbornly.

Sparks of amber began to swirl in his eyes.

Aoshi repeated his question. “What happened?”

“We where near the outskirts of town when Kaoru saw something in the woods . . . .” Misao trailed off again as she looked at Himura.

His thumb and index finger pinched his nose like a headache was coming on. When he removed his hand away though Misao stepped back. He looked extremely angry.

Aoshi glanced at him as his ki went up.

“You went to investigate I suppose.” Kenshin said though his tone lacked amusement.

Kaoru licked her lips a sign of nervousness. “I thought someone might need help so I went to go look. We walked in to the forest quietly.”

“And that made all the difference.” Kenshin said sarcastically.” Everyone in the room stayed still. They’d never seen Kenshin as anything other than the rurouni with a smile that never really reached his eyes though they were always warm.

Kaoru’s eye narrowed.

“We where in the woods when we saw some people in a clearing. Five men.” Misao said for Kaoru who seemed like she was starting to become angry.

“Yasuo recognized them as Mimawari-gumi.”

“What?” Kenshin almost roared with anger.

Kaoru ignored him and pressed on. “He told us to go back but . . . .we . . . we couldn’t make ourselves to leave. It’s like we were rooted to the spot.” Kaoru’s eyes took on a far away look. “Tetsu . . . he went in and the man. He killed him.” Kaoru’s lip quivered just a bit. “Cut his head off. It bounced on the floor.” She said blinking back the memory.

Kenshin and Aoshi exchanged a look. “What happened then?” Kenshin asked turning his attention to Misao.

Misao who was startled out of Kaoru’s memory looked at Kenshin and then at Aoshi. “Yasuo fought this man . . .

“Izubuchi” Kaoru put in.

“This man Izubuchi said that he was the fifth captain of the Mimawari-gumi. He fought Yasuo.” Misao looked at Kaoru for confirmation on Yasuo’s name. “Izubuchi said that, ‘NO fucking Ishin Shishi can beat me. Not even your legendary battoussai will stand against my sword.” Misao paused remembering how bravely Yasuo had fought.

“Yasuo struck out in blind anger he said, The battoussai will kill you mark my words you son-of a bitch.” Kaoru gave a sad smile when she retold it. “I tried to go help him but Tomoyuki pushed me down. He told us to go back.” Kaoru trailed off.

“Go back and warn them. They are here. Do you understand? They are here and with that Tomoyuki ran into the clearing in time to stop the Izubuchi’s blade from killing Yasuo.” Misao repeated the words.

“We don’t know what happened after that. We left. We ran as fast as we could back to the Inn looking for you. But you weren’t there.” Kaoru said if not accused Kenshin, who’d, lost all trace of emotion from his face. Only his amber eyes stood as proof of his anger.

“Who did you tell?” Aoshi asked.

“We told Yamagata-san.” Misao spoke squaring herself to look at him. Trying to defer meaning out of those eyes. “He said he would have the forest searched.”

Aoshi nodded. “Let’s sit.” Aoshi said noticing how both girls were on the verge off falling over.

The girls reluctantly took their seat huddled together again.

Kenshin frowned in disapproval but Kaoru didn’t notice.

“You will stay here.” Aoshi asked Kenshin. Both girls looked up at them.

“Yes and tomorrow you will stay with me.” Kenshin said.

Aoshi nodded and turned back to the table were everyone pretended to eat.

Kaoru served Aoshi avoiding Kenshin eyes while Misao did the same for Kenshin avoiding Aoshi’s eyes. The rest of the meal went on in quiet silence.

Misao face almost drooped into her tea. Scaring herself and Kaoru who was holding on to the table for support.

“You girls need to go to sleep.” Okina told them quietly.

Misao and Kaoru didn’t argue. The days event’s had taken there told on them. Slowly they made their way to Misao’s room.

Kenshin rose to stop her but Okina held his arm tightly. Kenshin almost glared at the old man. “She really needs to rest, the both of them do. You didn’t see them when they came back. They were whiter than a sheet.” Okina said sternly. “They were too young to remember things from the Bakumatsu but they asked me if this is what it was like. The killing.”

Kenshin’s face became stony. To him it was like before, there was no difference. Different strategies but still the same.

Aoshi’s mind drifted off to the Bakumatsu and how he and his men . . . . How the whole Oniwa-banshuu had fought.

“We have to stop things here before they move on.” Okina said shaking them out of their reverie.

“It’s not that easy anymore.” Aoshi spoke up. “What we encounter here. It will be a distraction.” Aoshi stared straight at the wall as if seeing something. “We don’t leave to pursue the leader of the Mimawari-gumi because even a distraction can finish off Kyoto if we’re not careful.”

Okina looked taken back. “Do you know who he is?”

“Maybe.” Aoshi said. “We’re not sure.”

“Why do you want us to go back with you Himura?” Okina asked redirecting his gaze towards him.

“The Aoiya will be attacked. Burned to the ground most likely. You will be safe at the Inn.” He responded.

Okina opened his mouth. To ask how he knew that. But Kenshin waved him off. “We need to leave at sunup. Get some rest.”

“You can sleep in Aoshi’s room then. I will set the extra futon there.” Okina said, as he was about to leave.

“I don’t require a futon.”

“What? Are you going to sleep standing up?” Okina asked. Aoshi frowned and waved him off before Kenshin could respond.

“We need to discuss what we’ll do.” Kenshin said to Aoshi when the old man had finally left.

Aoshi nodded. “We’ll do what we discussed on the way here.”

“Everyone will stay at the Inn while you and eight of yours wait for them here. I will leave for Kawamarachi Sanjo at Midnight. I’ll take eight of mine and we’ll patrol. The rest will stay at the Inn. I don’t believe it will get attacked but if it should . . . . There will be seven of yours and seventeen of mine. That should be more than enough. However if it isn’t, they need to head for the mountain where my shishou lives.” Kenshin paused when Aoshi raised and eye brow. “Why not the mountains?”

“It’ll be dark. The Mimawari-gumi could hide in the woods, slaughter than as they run into the safety of the darkness.” Aoshi stated calmly.

The Mimawari-gumi will know we know they will attack the city. Kenshin thought for a moment. “Where do you suggest they go?”

“Back into the city.”

“Why? The city will be swarming with them.” Kenshin frowned, his ki rising just a notch.

“They’d know we’d run away from them not at them.” Aoshi stated coolly.

The battoussai however didn’t like taking chances were his wife was concerned which is why he wanted her far away. Away from the danger. His frown became a scowl. “You must have a place in mind. Since they can’t just run around the city looking for us.”

Aoshi almost smiled. “There is a place. The Oniwa-banshuu know it as point A. They can redirect everyone there.”

Kenshin would have to trust this man. Misao was with Kaoru and as long as they remained together . . . . Shinomori cared for Misao and if he thought this place was safe for her then he would have to trust it was safe enough for Kaoru. Reluctantly or perhaps stubbornly. He nodded.

They both walked up the stairs in silence ready to sleep for three hours before they rounded everyone up.

*************

Yamagata was up at the crack off dawn. He watched as a large group made their way to the Inn. Twenty he counted yet he knew only three of them. He squinted trying to get a better look.

As they got closer he could see. ‘Ah, the Oniwa-banshuu along with their leader too.’ It was nice to have more protection but what prompted Himura to bring them back to in Ishin Shishi establishment.

He went down stairs quickly rousing up the landlady along and together they both waited at the door for them.

Everyone filled into the dinning hall which at this hour was completely empty. Having had little to eat. They became silent when Yamagata cleared his throat. “I have spoke with the landlady about getting you rooms unfortunately we are down to five. I apologize for the inconvenience, as you will have to share.” Yamagata said after sometime.

All the people nodded.

“There are housekeepers waiting to take you up. Four for each room.” He smiled at them and rose.

Everyone followed suit and left. All except for Aoshi, Kenshin and Yamagata.

“What have you learned?” Kenshin asked when the door had closed.

Yamagata gave a him a sad kind of look. “They searched all day and all they found was some blood. No body, no head. Nothing but traces of a fight.”

“Where they able to track them then?” Aoshi spoke in.

Yamagata shook his head no. “What about reinforcements?” He asked looking at the other two.

Kenshin half glanced as Aoshi. “Some should arrive as early as tonight while the rest come in the next few days.”

Yamagata spoke hesitantly. “Do you think the statesmen should leave?”

Kenshin almost frowned. “They are not here to kill the statesmen. I really doubt they’ve seen them since they haven’t left the Inn in the last couple of days. They are here to do what has been done to Hyogo, Osaka, Tokyo and Nagoya. That is what they are here to do.”

Yamagata nodded.

“Seven of Shinomori’s group and seventeen of ours will remain here to keep watch. Tonight he and I will try to draw out the Mimawari-gumi.” Kenshin spoke clearly. His deep voice resonating in Yamagata’s ears.

“You think tonight will be the night, then?” Yamagata asked though he knew that answer. It’s all been leading to this.

Kenshin only nodded.

“Then there are things I should take care of just in case.” Yamagata tone sounded resolute. Not frightened or eager but resolute.

He left the room leaving only Kenshin and Aoshi behind.

“We should prepare for to night then?” Aoshi said leaning away from the wall. Kenshin nodded and together they left the room.

: : : : : : : : : : : : :

Kaoru ran as fast as she could. She ran until she felt her legs would give out. Panting as she was, she was relieved. She’d made it on time. The Inn looked odd. She made her way inside. Dread filled her at not seeing the guard where he should be.

She sped up her pace when she saw the front door was open too. What is going on she said as she began to jog. Upstairs was empty she ran back down and strained to listen. The whole house was empty. Her heart constricted, there was something seriously wrong. “Kenshin,” she called out. Hesitantly at first but then it grew louder. “Kenshin!” She called. She ran to the back maybe he was in the back. Sliding the door open.

She breathed. “Kenshin,” she said calling to him. His face turned slightly and she gasped.

“Kaoru.” He said though his expression didn’t change. “Stay back.”

Kaoru felt like the air had been knocked out of her. He looked fifteen. But how could that be? Kenshin redirected his gaze and so did she. Her mouth opened wider. “Izubuchi.” His name left a bitter taste in her mouth. “Why are you here?” She moved closer and Kenshin’s right hand went up, stopping her. Her hand clutched at the front of her Kimono. He was Kenshin. He would be all right. Despite that she began to tremble.

Kenshin’s hand gripped the hilt of his sword a second before he slid it out. He lashed out in a battou jutsu but the man stepped back in time. Still some hairs fell to the floor where Kenshin sakabatou had cut them off.

She shivered wildly.

Izubuchi barked out a laugh. “That’s the best you could do. That’s so sad.” He attacked. His sword ran through Kenshin’s shoulder trying to twist the blade but Kenshin drew back.

Kaoru gripped her hair, pulling at it. She wanted to run there. To protect him. “Kenshin.” She whimpered. She stepped from foot to foot. Kenshin was breathing hard but he was still breathing. He took several steps back and then leapt into the air, striking the ground with such a force she thought the earth would split.

Izubuchi laughed again. “The legendary battoussai can’t even scratch me.” He gloated since he’d moved just in time. “Maybe I should fight you when you’re older. When you’ve had more life experience.” He barked again. His laugh sounded vain. Kaoru shook with pain. With rage, with hurt. He was killing her. He should have killed her first so she wouldn’t have to watch. “Kenshin.” She yelled. “Come on Kenshin.” She screamed encouragingly.

Kenshin struck out fiercely. His blade struck and it cut the tip of Izubuchi’s sword.

Izubuchi stared in disbelief. He pulled out another sword and struck Kenshin in the same arm.

“Kenshin, please.” She sounded desperate but she didn’t care. In the next moment Kaoru’s world fell away.

Izubuchi ran the sword through Kenshin’s throat. His own Sakabatou stuck through Izubuchi’s back. When they pulled away though Only Izubuchi remained standing up.

“Not so tough were you.” He said pulling out Kenshin’s sword out of his side. He stared at the wound. No ribs or organs were vitally injured. He’d live.

Kaoru shook her head running to him. “Kenshin! Kenshin!” Her tears began to fall. “Kenshin,” she said bringing her face down close to his. The tears fell onto his lids making it seem like he cried too. She felt the blade slice into her back but she paid no mind to it. She didn’t jerk as it was pulled out. She let out a sigh when it was done. She stroked his hair lovingly. “I’m so sorry,” she said. “I’m so very sorry. It was all my fault Kenshin. Kami I love you so much.” She whimpered. “Won’t you look at me please.” She begged. “Kenshin.” And even though she called to him she knew. She’d never see his beautiful eyes flutter open. His beautiful eyes so intense and so kind. Eyes that darkened with passion or anger. She looked up to the heavens. Looking at the Blue Moon. “Why?” She screamed. “Why did you give me what I wanted only to snatch it away.”

She screamed in pain.

: : : : : : : : : : : : :

Pain. She felt pain. Kaoru opened her eyes. Confused by it all. “I . . . want happened?”

Misao stood over her with Omasu and Okon at the door. “You were dreaming Kaoru. Something horrible I think. You were screaming.”

Kaoru noticed for the first time just how glazy Misao’s eyes were. Kaoru’s mouth move to say something when she felt the pain. Her hand reached for her cheek, still looking at Misao in confusion. It was a dream. Izubuchi wasn’t here. He hadn’t killed Kenshin. Her eyes began to water and she laughed. “It was a dream.”

Misao nodded. Giving her a teary smile she hugged Kaoru. “Just a bad dream. Everything is fine.” She said reassuringly. “He’s fine.” Misao whispered into Kaoru’s ear.

Kaoru nodded and pulled away. “Thank you for waking me. I don’t think I could have made it much longer.”

Misao nodded. “I’m sorry I slapped you but I couldn’t wake you up. Your screams . . . I’m sorry.” She apologized.

“It’s fine.” Kaoru said wiping at her eyes, just incase.

“I think that maybe you should take a bath before we go down for lunch.” Misao said trying to help her off.

“Yes that sounds good.” Kaoru said while looking around for the things for her bath. “Will you walk me, Misao?”

Misao nodded. It seemed the other two women had disappeared. They walked down the hall. When they reached the stairs, Kaoru just had to ask. “Is he here?”

“No, he and Aoshi-sama left I’m told but neither has come back yet.” Misao didn’t look at Kaoru. She tried to be reassuring even if she was beyond worried herself.

After her bath Kaoru made her way back to the room where she was glad to find Misao with a nice arrangement of food. Her mouth opened in a large smile. “I forgot we didn’t eat last night.”

Misao nodded happily. “I though about that too when I brought this up here. I didn’t know why I was so hungry till then.”

They ate contently talking about trivial things. Avoiding the subject of the Mimawari-gumi and how it could affect them.

“You know I was talking to the landlady today and she told me something that I thought you might find interesting.” Misao said as she continued sewing a gi.

Kaoru stopped her sewing to look up.

“She said there would be another full moon tonight.” Misao said lightly.

Kaoru looked at her rather confused. There were full moons all the time.

“No Kaoru,” Misao said guessing at what the other thought. “Another blue moon. She says that this . . . . phenomena.” She paused trying to find the words to explain it. “When two full moons appear in the same month. The second full moon is called the blue moon. It only happens every nineteen years.” Misao finished.

Kaoru opened her mouth but all that came out was an ‘Oh.’ And then suddenly the idea struck her. She could fix this. She smiled brightly at Misao.

While Misao smiled slyly.

Their staring was cut short by a rasp at the door. It slid open and Omasu and Okon stepped in with two large trays of food. “We thought we’d bring dinner up here.” Okon said smiling.

*************

Aoshi and Kenshin came back just in time for dinner. They sat in the dinning hall. Neither speaking to each other nor at the others. The rest of the men looked at Aoshi strangely but he paid them no heed. Kenshin wanted to finish first but it happened that Aoshi finished at the same time and so together they both left making their way upstairs. They heard laughter as they reached the upstairs and Kenshin bit the inside of his cheek. He was hoping for some alone time with his wife.

He slid the door open quietly and sneaked in to sit in a far corner of the room. Aoshi stood there with a blank look on his face. His eyes narrowed in anger but he came in just the same. He closed the door behind with a soft click but unlike Kenshin he didn‘t sneak in. He walked into the room not bothering to hide. If they saw him they saw him.

“I can’t . . . I can’t . . . believe he did that.” Misao said straightening up from her laughter, wiping her eyes in the process. “All right well it’s my turn again.” Smiling brightly she began. “When I was little, Aoshi-sama and I were walking down the road leading to the house. He was trying to keep me from jumping into puddles. Anyhow, I saw a particular puddle I wanted to jump into and I tried but Aoshi-sama stopped me. He pulled me out of the way in time. But he landed in the puddle instead. It was deep and he fell headfirst. He came out sputtering and the first thing he spit out was a baby frog. I went wild laughing.”

The women broke out into pearls of laughter. Imagining a fifteen-year-old Aoshi covered in mud, sputtering frogs.

“You know when he finally cleared his eyes and looked at me there was an initial look of shock on his face. He’d splashed me and I was completely covered in mud.”

More laughter.

“I love Aoshi-sama.” Misao said wistfully.

“Oh, Misao.” Okon said putting her hand over hers. “One day he’ll see how much you love him.”

“He’ll give in eventually. If not one of these days.” Kaoru reassured her.

“Your turn Kaoru,”

“All right my turn.” Kaoru agreed. “Two years back. Kenshin and I were . . . . “ Her ears pricked up suddenly. She’d heard the door. She got up and opened to the door but to her surprise there was no one there.

*************

Kenshin entered the room quietly. The women were gone and only Kaoru remained. The atmosphere had mellowed down a great deal. Kaoru sat on their futon with her back to him as she stared at the moon.

“Did you leave before or after my story?”

“Before.” He answered.

“Was Aoshi with you?” Kaoru asked softly.

“Yes.” Kenshin admitted walking closer to her. “He heard.”

She thought so. Kaoru let a deep sigh escape her. “Did you eat already?” She asked.

“Yes.”

She turned around to look at him. “Lay with me.” She said stretching her hand to him.

Odd as he felt the request was he obeyed her and kneeled in front of her.

The moment he was close enough to her she wrapped him in her arms and held him. She’d thought that the moment she’d see him she’d give a tongue-lashing but the dream. Even with the laughter of tonight. When she was alone there was only the dream. She withdrew from him slowly. “What’s wrong?” He asked, scanning her face. She sat a bit more comfortably and patted her lap. “Will you tell me what’s wrong?“ He asked. His eyebrows drew together when her face drooped down in sorrow. So without another question he did what she asked. He placed his head in her lap. She smiled sadly at him but she smiled nonetheless. She undid the tie in his hair and began to comb it with her fingers. He watched her without expression but inside there was confusion. What had brought on this sadness?

“You won’t let anyone hurt you, will you?”

He watched as her eyes glistened. “I won’t.” He answered.

“You’ll come back to me, won‘t you?”

“I will.” He said. He watched intently as one tear slid down her cheek. His thumb wiped it away as he caressed her cheek. “I will protect your happiness.” He promised her.

She shook her head, knowing what that meant. “No you mustn’t. You mustn’t say that.” She said as she bent over, resting her cheek on his forehead. “No Kenshin. The only thing that matters to me is you. And as long as you return to me . . .” She closed her eyes trying to keep the tears back. “As long as you return, I will be happy.”

He hadn’t meant for the words to upset her. But it seemed they had. She tried to hide her sobs but they were hard to ignore. He felt each and every single one, ripping at him. “Kaoru?”

“I had a dream Kenshin.” She said with her cheek still on his forehead. “A nightmare.” She withdrew her face slowly. She wiped her eyes with her sleeve and rather than looking at him she stared at the moon. It seemed to be getting bluer. Almost like before.

“I was looking for you but I couldn‘t find you. When I did you were in the back, in the yard. I went to you but you weren’t alone. Izubuchi was here.” She paused. “You fought and though you were incredible. . . . It wasn’t enough. He.” She swallowed hard. “He.” She didn’t know how to describe it.

“He killed me.” He said with no undertone of any kind. Her hand tightened in his hair but she didn’t look at him.

“I ran to you then, screaming. It’s all I could do. I screamed for you. I begged you to open you eyes. But you wouldn’t.” She looked down at his beautiful face. Her tears fell on him and it was too much like the dream. The tears fell on his lids, running down the corner of his eyes. “I was glad when I felt his sword run me through.” His body tensed and she was aware of it to some degree. But at the moment it didn’t register. “It meant I would be with you soon.” She continued on as if she hadn’t felt it. Her eyes left his face and she continued to stare at the moon again. “Rest.” She said as she soothed him. “I want you to rest here with me before you.” She said so quietly he almost didn‘t hear it. In a soft whisper, her lullaby began . . . . .

Time is leaping forward.

Feelings filled to the brim.

You’re voice is extremely clear and so fragile.

Once it starts walking towards those eyes.

The unplanned future keeps going.

The emotions are weaker than anyone thought.

Everyone’s emotions are already broken.

Getting wet in the rain makes you stop again.

But I know you believe in me.

A painful person’s . . . .

Dreams that never come true.

How come it’s from the bottom of the heart . . .

Love is born.

Once I start walking towards those eyes.

I’ll be devoted to the endless forever.

“You had someone sing that to me once.” She said to him as she massaged his scalp in a way that made his eyes close. He realized she was making him sleepy but he was helpless to stop it. She sang to him ending the song and starting over. She knew he was asleep even if he didn’t show it. “I wish you could remember your training Kenshin. All of it. How you used it against Saitou, against Shishio and Amakusa. I need for you to remember.” She murmured.

Kaoru woke up almost as soon as he’d left. She threw the blankets to the side and got up. Taking a look out the window she knew. The moon, it was like before. She was still wearing her kimono, it was a little crumpled since she’d slept in it but it was night and no one would notice. She walked down stairs quietly. She made her way out the back and into the yard. She walked to the far end of the yard and sat in the shadow of a great big tree. She knelt like before. With her hands clasped to her heart she began her plea to the heavens. She pleaded and wished for his sake, for hers and for everyone else‘s.

Kenshin and Aoshi walked down the road leading away from the Inn followed by sixteen men. Eight for each of them. It was a bit before midnight but there was no harm in getting started early. Side by side they walked down the road silently. They only glanced at each other before they separated.

Aoshi and his men took the road leading to the right while Kenshin and his men took the left.

*************

Izubuchi and Minami stepped out of the house at the same time, though neither acknowledged the other.

Minami and his men walked down the road leading to the police station. He’d decided to join the first group so they wouldn’t be at odd numbers.

The walk didn’t seem all that long he noticed as he stared up at the moon. He frowned at it. It made him afraid for some reason. To be honest he would have preferred a moonless sky it was easier to hide in the dark.

He looked back down and there it was. It was so quiet all of a sudden. He put his hand to his lips in a hushing gesture. His men nodded. Minami approached the police station in quick strides. He opened the door and walked in.

“Hey!”

But that was all that was heard aside from the swishing noise of a blade slashing at flesh and bone. Splashes of blood splattering the walls and the swishing off a blade throwing the blood off.

Minami stepped back outside as if nothing had happened while a small splatter of blood stained his right cheek. His face was stony and his eyes looked angry. “Burn it.”

And they obeyed.

Minami ran with the rest as two of his men stayed to set the fires. He hid in an alley with Hideki. Here they would wait for the rest to show up. He watched as the flames consumed the police station. ‘The others should have made it to town,’ he thought as he saw the first of the off duty policemen approach.

*************

Aoshi sat in the middle of the dinning hall waiting. A sensation ran over his neck, like a draft. They were here. He blew out the only candle in the room and set out to meet them.

He stood at the gate waiting. He wasn’t going to let them through. The Mimawari-gumi stood out in the street frozen to their spot. They didn’t think he was expecting them. He almost smirked; there were only sixteen. He might not even need to get involved.

Using the Onmyou Kouzo he started with his left handed attack at the man closest to him; he followed on with a right-handed attack. His kodachi slammed down on the left kodachi, doubling the impact and force.

His opponent made a feeble attempt to counter the attack but the second part of Aoshi’s attack broke the attempt. His kodachi cut the man down where he stood. The rest of his men had come out from behind the buildings they’d hidden in. Aoshi looked around him as many of his men fought on. He frowned when he realized there were more than the original sixteen. He left his spot in front of the Aoiya and walked out into the middle of the street where he was eagerly met by four Mimawari-gumi.

*************

Half way through the road he stopped, he felt something. The battoussai turned back to see large flames engulfing a section of the city. Not the Aoiya but maybe the sector near . . . .

His head snapped back to the road. “Head back to town.” He felt a coldness sweep into him as he said it. His hands gripped the hilt of his sword and he ran into the shadows of the road.

The men he was with stared with their mouth opened as they saw him move. The hitokiri battoussai ran into dark spots within the shadows. They could see the shadows moving and the blades glowing and eerie blue with the color of the moon reflected upon them. He ran and slashed. His opponent dropped with a thud. He repeated the movement six times. And then he was gone. The men looked around for any sign of more Mimawari-gumi. They drew their swords out and turned back slowly. Looking back from time to time.

Kenshin ran to Kawamarachi Sanjo. He had a feeling; there was something there. He ran down the street taking shortcuts where he could. He ran until he reached the street leading to the Ikeda house. The whole street was covered in darkness. The dogs that usually barked at night were unusually quiet. He walked down the street slowly. His breath had evened out. Taking a deep breath he walked into the old Ikeda house. He caught the shadow of someone moving. He walked in looking around closely. The reflection of the moon tipped him off as it reflected off of cold steel and into his sight. With out a yell he ran the rest of the way in. His sword clashed with someone else’s pushing them back. He drew back near the window and paused. With the bit of light coming into the house he could see his opponent taking on form he recognized. “Hirazuki.”

Small Note: Infoplease.com

Blue Moon the modern definition of a blue moon is as follows. When two full moons fall in the same month, the second is called the "blue moon." This occurs only once every few years hence the expression "once in a blue moon." Full moons occur about once every 29.53 days, or 12.3683 times a year.

Blue moons occur, on the average, every 2.72 years. The first of the full moons must appear at or near the beginning of the month so that the second will fall within the same month.

The rare phenomenon of two blue moons occurring in the same year happens approximately once every 19 years. It usual happens in the beginning of the year but for my story it happens towards the end. I like my stories taking place during winter.

Let's start with the dream.

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When you guys see anything between these lines it mean dream sequence. In this chapter it was Kaoru who had a nightmare.

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Now, the reason the words, "I will protect your happiness." Upset Kaoru is because that's what he said to Tomoe, his first wife.  It's a bad omen. Kaoru doesn't fear her death. She only cares about how it would affect him if it should happen.  She doesn't want the pattern to repeat itself.

The words from her lullaby are actually from a song in the movie. L'Arc - en - Ciel - Chokkaku. Though a lot of people know the song by 'Nigi' which is how I recognize it.

Can you guess why she wishes for him to remember his training and not his whole life? No, well it's because he's killed people already. The rurouni might not be able to deal with the things he's done. So instead she wishes for him to remember his training. The succession technique in specific. He would not fall in battle if he remembered ten years worth of practice. Such skills include his own groundless air spinning battou jutsu, which is his own version of Ryu Tsui Sen, something he didn't use very often in the anime but he used this move in the movie against Shigeru.

Who is Amakusa?

Amakuso Shougo first made his appearance in episode sixty-seven or sixty-eight depending on what fansub you're watching.

Amakuso was supposedly taught the Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu by a man named Nishida Hyoue.  Nishida had been a man under Hiko Seijuro 12th learning at the same time as Kenshin's shishou. He stirs some trouble in the anime and Kenshin is the one who goes to try and stop him after being asked to help by Shinomori Aoshi. I'd tell you what happens but there are some people who haven't gotten there yet and I will not spoil it for them. But you can guess who wins. I love it when he fights ::sigh::

Hirazuki - This technique was originally used by thee Shinsengumi. This is the technique from which the gatotsu was created.

That should cover everything you might have questions on. Oh and by the way. The marriage thing I keep getting e-mails on. Go back to CHAPTER 07, that’s when it happened. Look at the bottom of the chapter, the small notes tell you where it happened within chapter seven.

There are some people I wanted to e-mail back about some questions they had. When you include your e-mail address please make sure it’s spelled correctly. Ok, that’s it.