Chapter Seven

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

Takahashi looked from the door way as the battoussai kneeled over the form of his companion. She laid on the futon unmoving. The way the Himura had acted in battle it had been frightening so. Like no time had passed at all. They could have been introduced just yesterday.

The battoussai moved some of her hair away from her face. He ran his hand down the smoothness of her cheek. She was so soft. But she was cold. He drew the blankets closer to her body so she wouldn’t get cold. The feelings that had swallowed him whole during his fight threatened to enslave him again. He had feared for her life. It was true, the thought of her in danger stirred feelings of dread. He’d been so close to loosing her. There was nothing in this world he wouldn’t do to protect her. Nothing.

He touched her cheek again. She hadn’t stirred since she’d fallen into this deep slumber. Though she was out of danger she remained weak. He gave her a chaste kiss and broke contact with her. He rose and exited the room hastily.

The battoussai entered the kitchen where he found Takashi drinking sake. “What news?” The battoussai’s asked in a clipped tone.

‘Just as he remembered,’ Takahashi thought. “Yamagata sent us to retrieve you. He sends you this.” Takahashi handed Kenshin a sealed envelope.

Kenshin took it and read it.

Himura,

Izu is not safe. The Mimawari-gumi are active. Return to old head quarters. Kyoto

-Yamagata

He thought he recognized the colors. He set fire to the note and watched it burn on the table top. “Can you find me transportation?” He asked without looking at Takahashi.

Takahashi looked up.  "Yes."

“Tell me when you’ve acquired it.” Having said that the battoussai turned around and left the room.

To Takahashi’s surprise Himura didn’t return to the girls room. He left the house.

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

“Yamagata-san?”

Yamagata Aritomo looked up at the intruders voice. He was busy gathering his things getting ready to leave Yokohama.

“There have been two more assassinations.”

Yamagata stood up straight. “Who was it?”

“Two more statesmen.” The messenger paused for a second before he continued. “Tokyo and Nagoya have been set ablaze. That is all we have confirmed.”

Yamagata closed his eyes and shook his head. It was as he had feared. Things were getting out of hand. If only they had realized their intent earlier they could have stopped them before all these meaningless deaths. Before he gathered so many followers.

“Word on who’s leading the Mimawari-gumi?” Yamagata asked.

“No sir.”

“Very well. You may leave.” Yamagata finished gathering his things and left the room quickly. Eventually they would all end up back here.

A soldier took his luggage while he carried important state papers. Leaving Yokohama felt like hiding to him. But the assassinations were starting again. The way they had changed the times, once. Now the Mimawari-gumi were on the verge of doing it too. Yamagata boarded his carriage and it set off. The army had moved to guard Yokohama they would stay in place till they were sure they had the leader of the Mimawari. It was funny how he’d once fought to keep important men safe, solely because they meant to create a time of peace. Now others would have to keep him safe to ensure it’s survival. He knew he’d done the right thing in traveling with his former companions. The others would be safe too if they‘d taken his advise and traveled with swordsmen.

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

Kaoru opened her eyes slowly. She felt woozy. She half raised herself but the pain in her abdomen kept her down.

She felt gentle hands help her to a sitting positions. She turned her eyes to blue/violet eyes. A flash in the background set of the memory of a steel blade. “Are you hurt?” She asked though her voice had sounded so frail.

He shook his head and she cleared her throat. “What happened?”

She noticed her clothes were different. “Did you? Did you change my clothes?” She asked him

He nodded.

Despite her embarrassment she felt the need to comfort him. He was looking grim. “Tell me what happened?” She asked.

He still held her by the shoulders but he turned his face away fro her.

“Do you always run into battle after me?” He asked.

She licked her suddenly dry lips. “No, not usually.”

He turned back to her, his eyes boring into hers. “Not usually.” He squeezed her shoulders and she grimaced a bit.

“I didn’t want you to . . . have to kill.” She sputtered out.

He withdrew and she found herself reaching for his hands and keeping them close. “No Kenshin.” Her eyes teared up with the emotions she’d felt before she’d lost consciousness. “You don’t understand.” He tried to pull his hands away and she held them tighter in her grip. “You . . . It’s you. It’s because of the way you feel, Kenshin.” She began as the insistent tears slid down her cheeks. “I’m afraid. If you did something now. Something you’d regret as the rurouni. You might leave. You might leave me.” He pushed her back to her seat and sat in front of her. She bit her lip to keep from crying. The feeling of loss was settling into her being.

“You don’t want me.” He said but she cut him off.

Anger rising in her voice. “Kenshin baka.” She said a little hoarsely. “Kenshin I am very aware that you and I have different believes. You kill to protect. I know you’ve killed and you still kill.” She choked back a sob as she said this because it was all her fault. “I must be the worst kind of person.” She cried, not really aware she’d said it out loud. She turned her watery eyes back to his cold expression. “I must be. But I don’t care. I don’t care about what you’ve done . . . . I love you.” She bowed her head and the silent tears continued their journey. It was the first time she’d said the words out loud.

He was dumbfounded for a moment. He understood the last part it was just everything else he didn’t understand. So he sat there while she cried. “I am an hitokiri.” He spoke after a moment. “Can you love that?”

She nodded her head. She understood what he’d once been what he now was. And why later on he’d gone on to feel guilt. “I can love you.” She said again.

“I am not a rurouni,” he protested, giving her a critical look.

She gave him a sad smile. “I know. But it doesn‘t change the way I feel.” She trembled a bit in her seat. She felt exhausted.

He got up and laid her back down. He wiped her tears with his thumbs. Hating that he was the reason for them. He stayed kneeled in front of her for a long moment just starring at her. “I will protect you.” He spoke to her. ‘For as long as I may live.’ he said to himself.

Her eyes blinked slowly at him. And a smile appeared on her face. This was his oath and his confession. She closed her eyes and was just barely aware of his lips brushing hers before she fell asleep.

He closed his eyes and held her hand closer to his heart. She filled him with . . . it was hard to describe. He looked down at her face. Her soft, plush mouth was slightly parted in sleep. It made him smile.  The warm feelings she created though they frightened him.  Every time he'd been happy in his life something had gone terribly wrong.  Happiness, it'd been snatched away from him before.  He wasn't sure what would become of him if something happened to her . . . . .   

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

Kawamori sat in a hall. Three of his five captains had returned. Safe and with all their men. Tokyo, Hyogo and Nagoya were done. Now all they had left was Osaka and Kyoto.

“Kawamori-san” Ono called out to his leader.

Kawamori turned glad to see Ono walking around again. “What news?” He asked.

Ono paused when he was a couple of feet away. “They have encountered resistance in Osaka. The Shinsegumi have been called in.”

Kawamori looked a Ono for a long moment. “What of Kyoto?”

“There is still no word.” Ono responded.

“Have Kazuki come in here.”

Ono bowed and left the room.

A moment later Kazuki first commander of the Mimawari-gumi came in. “You called me?”

“Osaka is resisting. Take ten men and divert the Shinsegumi’s attention.”

Kazuki bowed and left shortly.

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

Minami pointed to his right and six men left in the direction of the police station. The Shinsegumi had been expecting them. He pointed to the left and another ten left in the direction of the senator’s house. He made a gesture with his hand signaling straight ahead, all but his personal fighters left to set the fires. He took the rest with him and they crept in the darkness. They would head for the senators house but they would emerge from the back. He knew that’s were the Shinsegumi expected them. They divided into two more groups and crept into the woods surrounding the house.

Minami slid his blade at the first signs of wolfs. Blood spattered across his mishiyuki as he sliced the man in front of him. ‘They weren’t all going to be that easy.’ he thought grimly. He could see the gleam of another’s sword. They were using the standard style of the Shogunate, the Hirazuki. As third captain of the Mimiwari-gumi he was very familiar with the style of fighting knowing that one day he would encounter them. He fell into battle with a cry as the rest of his men fought on.

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

The battoussai and his companion left the shrine quietly. Neither uttered a word, neither wanting to break the silence. They walked down the road and through the city. They were to board the train again. Luckily they hadn’t been too far and the exertion of the walk would not harm the smaller of the two. Their pace remained even and they reached the station just as their train arrived. The battoussai helped his companion onto the train where they proceeded straight to the back and took a seat.

Kenshin looked down at her exhausted form. He eased her down the long wooden seat so she could continue her rest. He hated having rushed her especially when she was so frail. But he had felt the need to do it. As if he waited any longer she might perish.

He looked out the window of the train. ‘Things were so different yet they all remained the same,’ he thought. The attack on him two nights ago. It had been something he’d been expecting since he’d woken up, ‘on that day.’ He’d never expected for her to get involved. If only she had listened. He’d have to be more careful with her. His thoughts suddenly trailed back to something the boy, Yahiko had said.

“He’s dangerous. He doesn’t know who you are. He might harm you. He wouldn’t even know what he’s done until it was too late.”

The boy had said like he’d ever hurt her or worse. He shook his head he would never. The thought of him accidentally killing her was absurd. Something like that could never. It would never happen. He looked at her face as the train began to move. He felt a slight twinge in his heart, a sort of warning. He really would be careful with her.

His thoughts trailed to his last assignment before he remembered the Mimawari-gumi. They were a group of his time. They had fought during the Bakumatsu to take control of the government for themselves. He looked out the window when he felt they were slowing down. The scenery slowed down till it became quite still. It was late in the afternoon, almost night. He could carry her but it would look suspicious. He’d have to wake her. He shook her gently until her eyes opened. She grimaced as he helped her sit up. He peered at her closely. He’d have someone check her when they got to the house.

The harsh winter air slapped them as they both stepped of train. He glanced down to see her shiver. Even in a thick kimono with wool lining she was still cold. He’d have to buy her a coat. He tore his eyes away from her and looked around suspiciously. There were too many . . . people standing around casually. Except they weren’t at all casual. They were keeping their ki to a point were it couldn’t be easily detected. Just like he was. It was hard to tell what faction they belonged too. He gripped the long package he held. He shouldn’t have listened to Takahashi and wrapped it up. ‘Makes it look less conspicuous,’ Takahashi had said.

“Let’s go.” He said while keeping his eyes on a particular group of people. They left the station rather quickly.

Kaoru fisted her hands as they walked down the street. The pain in her side was killing her. She felt the dressing needed changing. She gritted her teeth but said nothing to him. Ever since he’d become the battoussai she’d been weeping left and right, afraid he’d leave her. Her emotional state had been in turmoil. Now she was assured he would never leave her but while that remained of great news to her there was still the matter of the attack on them in Izu. What had prompted those men to attack and in the dead of night? She was sure she wasn’t going to like the answer when she found out, well that’s if she found out. She spared him a glance. He was being tight lipped. There was something going on, she was sure of it. In her injured state she’d forgotten to ask where they were going. She turned her eyes back to the familiar road. Kyoto.

It’d been a while since she’d come and paid Misao a visit, still. Things seemed so different. They drifted away from the road that would take them to the Aoiya. She briefly wondered where they were going.

They walked for a while longer until she struggled to take one step after the other. Still she was persistent if not anything else. So she kept her pace. She’d broken into a cold sweat and the wound on her side was throbbing. Her brow furrowed and she squinted to get a better look. She could see a large gate ahead. Surely, that’s where they were going.

Kenshin looked at the gates, they shouldn’t have been there. He walked up to the doors and knocked. A little window slid opened and a set of eyes peered at him. “What’s your business?” The voice asked.

“Tenchuu.” A one word answer that had the man tripping to get the door open. It swung open and the man hid behind it. He hadn’t realized. But it was him. It was him.

They walked into the house where and elderly lady greeted them. “Nice to see you Himura.” She said with a smile. Her eyes turned to Kaoru.

Kaoru gave the woman a smile and a respectful bow. She felt like the wound was going to burst, the pain had gotten stronger. She rose from the bow slowly and carefully. She just had to hold on a little longer. ‘Just have to make it to the room,’ she thought. ‘Have to make it.’ She fisted her hands till her knuckles turned white.

Kenshin peered at her and noticed the beads of sweat on her brow. The flushed cheeks and slightly glazed look in her eyes. His face hardened instantly. “You’re ill.” He accused.

Her smiling face had turned to him before she realized what he’d said. The words had sunk in slowly, they had sounded like he was far away instead of standing but a foot away. The one accusation seemed to take the last of her energies.

The landlady noticed that too. “Follow me.” She said taking them to what once had been his old room. This place had been burned to the ground at one point but over the years and with a lot of help the Inn had been rebuilt better that before. She’d heard of his misfortune over the years. And it wasn’t till recently that she’d learned the fate of the other girl, the one that smelled plum blossoms. Very tragic indeed. Still it seemed fate had been kind in giving him another. One just as pretty. “Here you go.” She told them as she slid the door open so they could go in.

The stairs were just too much. She held on to the side of the wall. She felt like she was going to throw up. She was aware of the landlady opening the door and she made a wild gab for Kenshin. This was it she couldn’t make it any further. She felt herself growing limp until went black.

The landlady’s eyes widen in worry as the girl swayed and fell limply into Himura’s arms. He picked her up and took her into the room. He seemed so different then the last time she’d seen him. “I’ll get the doctor.“ She said turning on her heel and running off.

Kenshin placed her gently on the floor as he set about fixing the futon for her. He set her on it and touched her forehead. His mood grew dark. She had a fever. He should have realized before this. If he hadn’t been so busy thinking about the Shinse-gumi and the Mimawari-gumi this wouldn’t have happened. He heard the sound of foot steps running down the hall and stopping in front of his room. There was a knock on it before the door slid open.

An older man with graying hair and wise brown eyes came into the room quickly. He placed his bag down next to him as he kneeled next to a young woman. He touched her forehead and found she had a fever. He felt her hand for a heartbeat and was a little unnerved that it was so weak. He touched her throat to see if the fever stemmed from a cold. But that was not the case. “Has she been sick lately?” The doctor asked as he opened one of her eyes to look at the pupil.

“She was injured in Izu.”

The doctor turned to the red headed man. “Where?”

Kenshin pointed at her right side. The doctor looked down at her form and touched over the material softly. “I will have to undress her.” He said as he began to undo the obi. Kenshin stayed in place while she was undressed. The bindings over her breast were in place as well as other undergarments. The doctor looked at the aggravated wound. What should have been clean and a dusty pink was now a deep angry red. He removed the dressing and set it to the side. The blood had almost completely soaked through. The landlady came in then holding a pot of hot water and a bowl. The doctor looked up at her gratefully. He spent the next couple of minutes cleaning and redressing the wound. Finally the doctor stood. “She’s going to need a lot of rest. Make sure she eats and try to get her to stay still. At least until the wound has healed a bit more.” The doctor turned to look at Kenshin once he’d covered the girl in warm blankets. “You can leave the windows open. The cool air will help maintain her fever down just make sure she keeps on these two blankets at all times. I’m going to give you some herbs and a special blend of tea. Tomorrow you should go out and get her some more.” The doctor rummaged through his bag. He handed Kenshin two small triangular shaped papers one with medicine and the other with tea inside. He turned his back on Kenshin one more time so he could write down the names of what the red headed man needed to buy. “Here,” He said handing him the paper.

Kenshin took the paper. “Thank you.” He said. He remained in a sitting position even as the doctor spared him another glance and left the room. Kenshin was very aware of the landlady still in the room. “Himura I can get those things for you.”

Kenshin turned his face up towards her and nodded. He handed her the paper and she gave him a sad smile before she left the room. He waited till the woman was far enough before he crept closer to Kaoru’s sleeping form. He sat by her, touching her cheek. Her face was so hot. He got up only to open a window for her and then went back to sit as he’d been. He felt extremely angry. It had been one day. One day since he’d promised to take care of her. To protect her and already he was failing miserably. She’d done her best to hide her discomfort too and that just added to the building rage. He sat there for a long time just watching her sleep.

He opened the door to his room just before someone knocked on it. The man stood there with his hand still raised. “They’re here.”

It was well after midnight when the last government official had arrived. They all sat around waiting for their late supper. The battoussai came into the room and took his usual seat. It was odd, to see them eating here. This place was usually where the Kihei-tai had their meals. The officials always ate either amongst themselves or they ate in their room. The seat where Iizuko usually sat was now occupied by Yamagata Aritomo. Things were just as strange as he’d expected. Coming to Kyoto expecting things that were no longer. They were served their meal and Kenshin began to eat along with the rest of the men in the room.

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

Yamagata cleared his throat. “I am very glad to see you have all made it here safely.” He spoke as he looked around the room. “I think that by now all of you have heard some sort of truth as to why we are here. Many of you find yourself here once again.” Yamagata took a regretful sigh. “The Mimawari-gumi are active, their goal is still the same. They will try and bring down the current government to establish their own. Since my departure from Yokohama their have been two more assassinations.” He paused as the men in the room broke into whispers. “That is five in the last month.” He continued after a moment. “I am afraid dark times are among us once more. History seems to want to repeat itself. We are here because this house is safer than anyone of your homes. Yes even with the army and even with your personal guards.” His last statement made some of the other men shut their mouths as they were half way to making a protest.

“We will conduct our business from here while our forces search out the Mimawari. Certain precautions have been set into place. And we’ve searched out certain people.” Yamagata said glancing at Himura. “To help us maintain order. We’ve fought too hard for the Meiji. Spilt too much blood so that we could have peace. Now that we have achieved it. It just isn’t right for someone else to come along and cause such horrendous acts simply because their side lost. Many of you may not have heard yet but Tokyo, Hyogo and Nagoya have been burned down almost completely.” Yamagata paused again feeling weary. “The death toll will only keep rising if we don’t stop them soon. As government officials it is our responsibility to stop them.”

A lot of the older officials looked at each other having lived through the Bakumatsu. They knew what it would be like if they didn’t soon stop the Mimawari-gumi. The younger officials looked at each other; some bewildered and some frightened at the events. Still both groups hadn’t realized the graveness of the situation till now.

They all left the room in a deadly silence.

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

Kenshin entered to cold room still feeling agitated with the nights events. He made his way over to Kaoru and felt her forehead. She was still very warm but not burning up the ways she had been earlier. He noticed she seemed to be in discomfort though. He was unsure of what to do. He laid his hand on her shoulder. It was harder to comfort her when she was asleep. Still . . . .

He moved the blankets aside for a moment as he got into the futon with her. He laid the blankets around them and slowly eased her over to himself until her head rested against chest. He rubbed her shoulder soothingly until the look of discomfort left her face. Her breathing evened out as she fell into a deep slumber.

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

Kaoru looked around the yard till her eyes fell on the familiar figure. “Kenshin.” She called out.

Kenshin stopped his wash and turned around to face her. With a warm smile he answered her. “Hai, Kaoru-dono.”

Her smile slipped off for just a moment. Why was she disappointed this was who he was. ‘Not true,’ a voice in her mind whispered. She stared at his confused expression noting for the first time just how false it really was. ‘Why do you want the mask when you can have the whole . . . ’

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

Kaoru’s eyes opened slowly. She felt groggy. She could already tell she was going to have a big headache. ‘I swear to Kami if Yahiko comes in here yelling, I’m going to knock him into next week,’ she though savagely.

“Feeling better.”

Kaoru’s eyes turned left in the direction of the voice. Ah. For a moment she’d forgotten where and who she was with. Her brown furrowed in confusion and slight agitation. Why did his questions not sound like questions. She tried to sit up.

“Don’t.”

She halted in her movement and looked at him strangely. “Why?” She asked even as he pushed her back down.

“You are ill and must remain in bed. The doctor left some medicine for you.” His tone was even. Not betraying the anger or the worry he had felt. “Here.” He said holding her against his chest just enough so that she could drink the tea. He’d gotten it when it was still scalding hot now it was just barely warm. He held her until he could see the tea’s effects.

He stroked her face a little while longer. He wouldn’t have to leave her till later on. Not till night had set in.

Tbc…

Small Note:  What's there to say. The assassinations have started. A military tactic meant to intimidate the public as well the as the state. 

Yamagata Aritomo.
He leads the army and the department of defense for the Meiji Ishin. He's a cabinet member. He's also and old friend of Kenshin's. 

Mimawari-gumi, lead by Kawamori Tetsuya. A group made up of over two hundred members, mostly children of the original warriors. Their goal is to overthrow the government and establish their own.

The forces are lead by five captains. 

01. Kazuki, first captain
02. Minami, second captain
03. Masashiko, third captain
04. Takanashi, fourth captain
05. Izubuchi, fifth captain,

Each leads a small army of fifty men. All trained in the old ways.


Tokyo was set on fire by Takanashi
Hyogo was set on fire by Izubuchi
Nagoya was set on fire by Masashiko and 
Osaka is being set on fire by Minami

Kyoto is the last city on the list. It will also be the most difficult.

The battoussai left Izu as soon as Kaoru was able to move. The train ride over was a little fluffy, I know. But it will make things easier for me in the later chapters. The shrine . . . I should hope you know what that means. 

Kyoto their final destination and headquarters once again. All important member and loyal samurai have been summoned there. 


Well that's it. Don't feel dejected if you didn't see much on Bat/Kaoru I will include a lot more in the next chapter. Thanks for reading. Don't forget to review.

Chapter Eight

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

The sound of footsteps alerted him to the newcomer. He hid in the shadows waiting. A small man ran by when all of a sudden hands reached out and grabbed him. He gave a yelp that died in his throat.

“Don’t turn. Tell what you know?”

The small man did as he was told. “He was in Izu but he’s gone now. There were a lot of casualties but it’s hard to say if it was the Ishin Shishi or ‘your friend’ who did all the killing. That’s all I know so far.” There was a long silence, which was followed by a cloud of smoke. The small man saw a pouch tossed out in front of him but stayed still for a moment hoping the other man had left already. He bent over slowly picked up the couch and left without turning back. He hated that he had to snitch but if he ever stopped he’d starve to death. With a shake of his head he ran back the same way he came.

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

Kaoru sat up despite the pain in her side. It hurt less than it had the day before. She let out a small yawn as she stretched. She looked around the room a little disappointed that she was alone. She rose a little unsteady at first but willed herself to remain upright. The first thing she did was close the window. It was way too cold. She changed her clothing and pulled her hair up. ‘Time to find you,’ she thought. She opened the door and nearly shrieked.

“You scared me child.” The landlady chided.

Kaoru whose hand had flown to her heart only nodded.

“Where are you going?”

“I was hoping to find the bathhouse and then Kenshin.” Kaoru spoke kindly to the woman.

“He‘s in a meeting. But I can show you to the bathhouse.”

Kaoru nodded enthusiastically. “I’ll just get my things.” She walked back into the room and came back out quickly. “Lead the way,” she chirped in.

The landlady smiled at her and they walked down to the bathhouse talking amiably to each other.

Kaoru felt better after the steaming hot bath. She finished brushing her hair and walked out of the bathhouse. It was time she found him so they could talk. She walked down a couple of halls and then upstairs. She counted the doors and after five on the left. She found her room. She left the things from her bath and went down to where she thought he might be. She slid door open and saw him sitting down. “Kenshin,” She called with a light tone. “I was worried . . . .” She said walking the rest of the way in. Her words trailed off as she came. There were a lot of men in the room not just Kenshin. They’d been discussing something before she came in. Her mouth opened to say something else when some one started pushing her out.

“Stop.”

The sound resonated in the quiet room. The command was obeyed immediately. The man who had been pushing her out let her go and backed away slowly.

Kaoru had kept her eyes on him but still she missed when he stood up. He walked until he was a breath away from her. “What is it?” He asked her, though the tone he used with her was much different then the one he’d used when he’d called the other man off. Her thoughts trailed back to him. He was too close to think. And though she wanted to take a step back she just couldn’t find it in her. So her mouth opened and she spoke the first thing that came to mind. “I missed you.”

Her eyes widened at what she’d said. She felt the color rush to her face. Of all the things to say, she hadn’t thought. She could see amusement in his eyes and it sparked anger deep within her heart.

He walked closer to her and took her by the hand as he led her out to the hall. Outside the door he stepped off to the left and wheeled around to face her. “You shouldn’t be up. You’re ill.” He spoke down to her. She opened her mouth to protest but he cut her short. He kissed her until he left her breathless. “Wait for me upstairs.” He said giving her a little push in the direction of the stairs. She was blushing like mad. She nodded her head at him and made her way up the stairs.

He watched her until he could see her no more and nodded at the landlady who’d stopped what she was doing in order to watch. He closed the door with a click as he came back into the room. He remained silent as he made his way back to his seat. His expression only changed when he glared at the man who’d touched Kaoru.

The man kept his eyes downcast even as chill set into his bones. Some of the other men glanced at each other but said nothing. They’d all been interested in seeing the battoussai’s woman. ‘A real beauty,’ the landlady had said.

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

Kaoru sat in her room a little dazed. She looked out the window and realized where she was. She’d go visit Misao. It’d been a whole year since she’d seen her. The last time she’d received a letter was about three maybe four months ago.

She’d ask him for money so she could buy herself a nice kimono. She’d have to visit the Aoiya soon before the weather got worse. Another yawn escaped her. She looked at her futon longingly; she’d already put it away. She shook her head but she found she had very little energy. Ah. I haven’t eaten she thought. She got up with a bit of trouble and left the room.

This time she let out a yelp.

“Child, you have got to stop doing that. I almost dropped your food.”

Kaoru let out a shaky breath and moved aside for the older women. “I was just coming to get something to eat.”

“Himura told me to bring you something to eat. I’m sorry it took me so long.” She smiled apologetically.

Kaoru gave her a large smile. “It’s alright.” She said as she sat down. The older woman served her and then rose to leave. “Aren’t you going to stay?” Kaoru asked.

“I’m sorry but there are so many guests, I just can’t.”

Kaoru nodded at the lady and began to eat.

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

The battoussai didn’t like the Shinsegumi. He didn’t trust them. How Yamagata could he had no idea. Still he was glad they would all stay in Osaka. He had no wish to encounter any of them.

“Himura a word.”

Yamagata’s voice stopped him as he reached the first step on the stairs. The battoussai nodded and followed him to his room.

“There is something that I have been meaning to ask you it‘s about the Shinsegumi.” Yamagata paused at the flicker of amber in the depths of blue/violet eyes. “You don’t trust them?”

“No.” but that was all he said.

“Come now Himura we are old friends please talk freely.”

“I don’t see how you can trust them so when we’re in the same situation as before.”

Yamagata stared at his old friend for a while. “You think that the Shinsegumi might try and take advantage of the situation to restore the power of the Shogunate bakufu?” Hmm, he trusted the Shinsegumi but to a certain point. Even though it had been years since the Bakumatsu he still couldn’t get rid of the feeling of mistrust when he was around them. Still when he addressed one of their members he spoke to them with nothing more then the outmost respect. “I will keep my eyes and ears open Himura.”

The battoussai nodded.

“All right as for what I wanted to discuss with you. As I said in the meeting the will stay over in Osaka while you and others stay here. What I need for you to do is . . . . .”

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

The battoussai made his way upstairs back to his room. Yamagata had said a ‘word’ but it’d been nearly half an hour. He stood at the door and briefly wondered if he should knock or just step in. He listened for any sign of what she might be doing but didn’t hear anything. He slid the door open, careful not to make any sound. A smile come to his face as he stepped inside.

Kaoru’s hair fell over her like a dark veil. Her hair was down on her sides and over her eyes. She brushed out the knots carefully. She’d been trying things with her hair and now she couldn’t run her hand through it without it getting stuck. She pulled on a particular section so hard she winced. Finally though she was able to run the brush all the way around. With a sniffle she tossed back her long bangs. A startle gasp escaped her throat.

“Kenshin.”

He peered at her with an ardent expression. He’d been watching her for the last couple of minutes as she brushed her hair. Her face was a bit flushed from having her head bowed for so long. He reached for her face without thought. There was just something about her face. He a caressed a cheek with his thumb. ‘Always so soft,’ he thought.

Kaoru felt the beating of her heart speed up until it skipped a beat and her eyes closed as he leaned down to kiss her.

Her eyes opened slowly when they withdrew. There had been something she had wanted to ask but she couldn’t remember what it was. Her eyes closed as he leaned in again.

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

The group stands at about two hundred men. Same as before, it’s five captains are from the same families. Osaka suffers death on both sides. The Shinsegumi are active. Rumors of the battoussai have emerged. It’s peaked interest on both sides. We are scheduled to intercede in four days when they come through our town.

-Toshio

Okina finished reading the letter to his Okashira. He folded it back up and placed it on the large desk that took up his office.

“Shiro saw him arrive.” Shinomori Aoshi’s spoke calmly to the older man.

“Yes he told me. He said Himura was with the Kamiya girl. He was hiding his battle ki which was different than when they were last here.” Okina said as he sat in front of Aoshi.

Aoshi picked up his pocket watch, last years birthday present from Misao. It was almost twelve, he noted. Messages had been sent back and forth between all member of the Oniwa-banshuu each clan keeping the other informed of what was happening. Perhaps the report of Izu was correct. If it were then the problem with the Mimawari-gumi would not last too long. He put the watch away into his breast pocket and rose. Both men walked down the hall to have their lunch.

“Aoshi-sama.” Her breathless voice reached his ears. He turned his head to look at her. She flashed him a large smile before she continued. “Shiro told me.” Aoshi’s eyes narrowed in Shiro’s direction, which was overlooked by Misao. “He saw Himura and Kaoru.”

Aoshi nodded.

She almost bounced at the affirmation. “When do you think they will stop by?” She looked at him with her hands still clasped close to her heart. ‘Still so innocent, he thought.’

“Soon.” He responded.

Misao watched him walk the rest of the way into the room. It had only been a couple of days since they’d reinstated him as okashira thought to be honest the job and title had always been his. Nonetheless he was already acting in the manner she once remembered him. A wistful smile replaced the over enthusiastic once she’d had a moment ago. Maybe things would work out for them after all.

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

Kaoru laid on her side, tucked in under his arm fast asleep. He never thought he could spend a whole day just laying around. The life he’d led up until twelve days ago had been filled with nothing but darkness. But now. To say things were different was an understatement. He’d lived a whole other lifetime while he slept. Because he fell asleep in Kyoto after his last assignment only to wake up in Tokyo more than a decade later. It was strange.

He shook his head not wanting to think about such things, not now. He glanced out the window noticing night was setting in. He’d have to go to work soon. Patrolling was not something he liked doing but that‘s what he‘d have to do tonight. He untangled himself from her warm limbs and stood up. He dressed and tied his hair back up. He lit a candle in a corner of the room so that there was some light. ‘She might get scared if it’s too dark,’ he thought. He kneeled by her side tucking the blanket around her so she wouldn’t get cold. He gave her a chaste kiss before he stood up to leave. The problem was it was hard to give her just one, even when she was asleep. Giving into the urge he kissed her one more time and left the room quickly.

He closed the door and made his way down the stairs. He’d have to eat before heading out. He came into the dining room where all the voices hushed as he entered the room. He strode in and sat in his usual seat. This time there were no government officials just their guards and other samurai who’d been called in. He ate his meal and left the room while the others were still eating. He didn’t like being with other people.

Kyoto was the same at night. It was only during the day things looked different. He walked down the familiar street. He had to walk to Kawaramachi Sanjo and then head back. He briefly wondered if the Ikeda house still stood. Either way he‘d find out.

The shadows concealed his form as he walked along. He’d put on his gloves again. His hands had felt odd in Izu when he’d been force to kill those men. He hadn’t been wearing them then. Perhaps the feeling had stemmed from the fact that he’d used a sword other than his own. Either way this new pair would have to do. The katana much like his gloves looked and felt very much like old ones. He glanced down the street feeling something. There was no noise. It was too silent. He looked at the Ikeda house, the lights had been blown out. It was obvious this point was no longer under their vigilance. He crept through the alley wanting to avoid the shrine. It was too perfect for an ambush.

He paused mid step. Someone was blocking the other end. His hand gripped the hilt of the katana. He ran and with one stroke the other man flew back into a wall. A deep gash from one side of the shoulder and ended on his hipbone was clearly visible. The battoussai had killed him before the other had the chance to draw his sword. He slashed the air to get the blood off. His nerves had steeled the moment he’d seen the shadow of the man. He looked around but there was no one else. This smelled like a trap to him. If they were expecting him they wouldn’t have sent just one man. He made his get away in a different direction than the way of his home. He was not going to lead them anywhere other than to their graves.

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

Yamagata looked out his window. It was almost midnight and Himura had not yet returned. He heard a slow pitter patter alerting him to the coming rain. A couple of days away from the pressure of Yokohama. That’s what he’d told himself to get out of his office. But the pressure was worse here. Just waiting for the Mimawari-gumi to attack.

He had a pretty good idea of who their leader was. He would not act until he was sure though. If he was right and it was who he thought then things would only get harder because this man would make his forces fight to the last man.

With a heavy sigh he turned away from the window and went back to his futon. He really needed sleep. He awaited word from the Shinsegumi in Osaka. Their letter was due to come tomorrow. After that he’d have to make a critical decision. Go to them, wait them out or have them come here. He shook his head and blew out his candle. Things were only going to get worse before they got better.

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

The battoussai stood with the river behind him. Lights from the other side drifted down lighting the water. Clouds shadow the moon and in that moment he lashed out. He gripped the hilt tightly. The basic battou jutsu, a move engrained to his memory like the fact that he had two hands. He slashed the first man across the chest leapt and cut the second one down through the back as he came down. Using the same speed and the momentum he gripped the hilt with both hands and with one thrust he finished the last one. With his back to the bodies he swiped the air to get the blood off.

He turned back and ran through the woods. In his effort to mislead his opponents he’d gone out of the way. It was nowhere near sunrise still it was along way to go before he’d reach home.

He ran until he reached a familiar road. His trot eased to a slower pace. He made sure no one had followed him. His pace grew hurried once again when he saw the gates. He knocked and the same small window opened. The same man from before recognized him and opened the door.

The battoussai stepped through the door and headed for the bathhouse. He washed his hands, face and neck before stepping out. He took off his michiyuki and left it in the pile of dirty clothes the landlady’s housekeepers kept out by the water basin. They would wash it tomorrow.

He felt tired. He went through a couple of halls and then up the stairs. Five doors later he found his room. He slid the door open quietly but he might have well slammed it opened.

“Where in have you been?”

He came into the room quietly taking off his daisho and setting next to the bed. Ignoring her presence he began to change his clothes.

Kaoru covered her eyes with her right hand but it didn’t do much to cover her scowl.

“Himura Kenshin.” She hissed. “You answer me when I speak to you.” After a moment the rustling of clothes stopped and she moved her hand so she could see him. “Kenshin.”

“Kaoru.” The sound of his voice sent chills down her arms. She ignored the sensation, she was too angry.

“What was so important that you felt the need to leave in the middle of the night?” She asked in a very angry tone. “What was so important?”

“The Meiji Ishin.” He said getting into her bed. She would soon follow. He covered his eyes with his arm and waited for her.

“The Meiji Ishin? What kind of answer is that? Kenshin.” She said his name with a warning tone. Something he felt he recognized, in spite of that he didn’t move.

“Kenshin.” She said crawling closer. She forcefully moved his hand away from his face. “I am talking to you.” She said. With his arm gone she could peer down at him. Her mouth opened in a silent gasp when she saw twin pools of amber starring back at her. She made to move but his arms were quicker. They held her by the waist over his body. Her face began to burn first in embarrassment and then in anger. She gripped his shoulders hard as she tried to get away. When she couldn’t she tried to slap him. He moved both of her hands off his chest and she fell over him. A smile curved his lips. “Why don’t we finish what we started today?” He coaxed.

She kept her cheek firmly pressed on his chest. “Where did you go?” She asked stubbornly.

He held her for a moment longer before he let her hands go. His hands went back to her waist so she that wouldn’t flee plus keeping her this close to him would ensure less physical injury to his person. “Can’t this wait till tomorrow.”

She shook her head and muffled ‘no.’ He really wasn’t in the mood for telling her a story. He wanted to rest or if not he wanted . . . .

“Kenshin.”

With a deep sigh, something he noted was not at all like him he told her an edited version of events.

“There is a group called the Mimawari-gumi the Ishin have fought them before. They are a group as fierce as the Shinsegumi but they lacked skill. At least in my time. It seems they have reemerged and have set certain things in motions. They have burned several cities while we were gone. They have also started to assassinate high-ranking officials from the government. They want a war. The Shinsegumi are holding some of them back in Osaka. Information leads us to believe Kyoto is next.” He’d been rubbing her lower back in a smoothing motion as he told her the events.

“So the people from Izu?”

“Mimawari-gumi.” He responded to her question.

“Why did they . . . want . . .?”

“To kill me. Probably so I wouldn’t get involved.” He answered her.

Her head was filled with so many thoughts so many questions. “You will then . . . . I mean you are right?” She asked as she moved her mouth so her voice wasn’t muffled anymore.

“I am.” He confirmed.

She didn’t want him to get involved she wanted to take him away from all this. She wanted to keep him safe both physically and mentally. “Are they really that dangerous?”

“More than Yamagata thought. I think he fears they might succeed.” He said monotonously.

Despite wanting to protect him she knew how important the Hitokiri Battoussai had been during the Bakumatsu. He’d turned the tide for the Ishin Shishi. Being in the same situation again and this being the hitokiri battoussai. Of course he’d help. He’d do for them what he once did. It was like a bad nightmare. She realized that even if she hadn’t made the wish. These events would have still happened and it might have been harder for him because the rurouni would rather get hurt himself rather than hurt others. Still, all the deaths would have broken down the rurouni and forced the battoussai out in a much worse way. She gave a deep sigh. This was just too much.

“Let’s sleep. I’ll answer the rest of you questions tomorrow.” He said to her as he covered them with the blankets.

Kaoru stayed in the same position for a long time. ‘The candle was dying out,’ she mused. A thought occurred to her then. It made her blood run cold. But what if . . . What if she died? She’d leave the same scar on him as Tomoe. No, maybe not that big. Not unless he accidentally killed her. That worried her more than anything else did. What would happen to him id he was left all alone? She felt her eyes get watery. She didn’t want to leave him all alone. The guilt and the pain he’d feel. She moved closer to his neck so she could hide her face there. A gust of wind blew the candle out leaving the room pitch black. She nuzzled his neck, seeking comfort.

“Kaoru.”

She realized he was still awake. “Kenshin.” She breathed into his ear. The pitter-patter of the rain increased as the rain came down harder. She moved her mouth and kissed his cheek. She then proceeded to kiss every inch of his face. Trying to ease a nonexistent hurt. She kissed the side of his mouth and she felt his body tense. She didn’t hesitate for too long she allowed herself to kiss him. The way she always imagined. No, more like the way she’d only fantasies about.

Chapter Nine

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

Himura battoussai woke up to the sound of moment outside his room. He rose quietly from his sitting position by the window and with katana in hand. He opened the door.

The messenger figured that the red headed man would answer in the same way he had previously so this time he hadn’t bothered to knock. “There is a meeting.” He trailed off. Himura’s glinting eyes and unsheathed sword gave him a menacing look. He took a step back.

The battoussai closed the door to his room and followed the messenger down. His movements were automatic. His expression one of monotony.

The messenger took his seat across the room as he they entered the room.

Kenshin came into the room and took his usual seat. He noted Yamagata’s absence. He closed his eyes waiting. Every one around him talked, speculating. The door opened and Yamagata came in. Kenshin opened his eyes to reveal eerie blue orbs with flecks of amber swirling on the sides. For some reason he knew.

Yamagata took a seat. Getting right down to business he cleared his throat and began. “I have received word today. Osaka has sustained minimal damage. It was not burned to the same extend as Nagoya which lost a quarter of it’s habitants. Our forces were able to drive them out but not before they . . . “ He paused. “Both sides have suffered some loss, which was expected. However reinforcement arrived from the Mimawari-gumi. They slaughtered the statement representing Osaka along with his entire household. The entire police force along with the police station was destroyed. Sources tell me Kyoto is next.”

He let the whispering die down before he continued. “As of today you are no longer allowed to leave the premises unless accompanied by three swordsmen. Those who don’t comply will not be allowed to leave.”

“Wait just a minute there Yamagata.” Hamasu, a man in his middle forties called out. “We didn‘t come here to be held prisoners.”

“That is correct, you came here so that I could keep you safe. So you could live.” Yamagata finished as if he hadn’t been interrupted.

“Can we pick from the liter of swordsmen?” Kumamato, an older man about fifty asked.

“If we are then I want the battoussai.” Hamasu quickly put in.

The whispers broke out again.

“I can pay you.”

“Name your price?”

“I’ll pay you double.”

“I’ll match any price and some.”

“I have a family you have to protect me.”

“I have family too and I can pay.”

The shouting of continued amongst the statesmen.

“Enough!” Yamagata said as he slammed his hand down on the floor. “Himura will not be acting as a guard.” He said after taking a calming breath. “He is an hitokiri do you understand.” He said not being able to hide his anger.

Some mumbling went on but they hushed down again.

“If you wish to leave, then do so now. Those who will stay will follow the rules.” Yamagata got up and to his surprise Himura accompanied him.

Out side the door Yamagata shook his head. “You shouldn’t have followed me Himura. They will think you are acting as my personal guard.” He said as they walked towards his room.

“They can think what they want.” Himura said he sat down in front Yamagata.

Yamagata shook his head. He hated being the bearer of bad news.

“You didn’t finish your speech.” Himura said as he looked up and met his eyes.

Yamagata opened his mouth and then closed it. He smiled at his old friend, always so observant. “I wanted them to help me decide.” Yamagata looked down at his folded hands. I can’t attack them. I have no clear view as to where they me. At this point all I’ve heard is speculations. I have sent scouts who’ve returned with no news. All I can do is wait. Himura, just a month ago things were as they should have been. Peaceful times, a time of progress but now things have changed so drastically. I . . . I can no longer leave any member of the group alive.” He turned his sorrow filled eyes to his old friend.

The battoussai just looked at him. “ We will eliminate all threat,” he said getting up. He paused at the door. “To protect, we must slay our enemies.” He opened and closed the door quietly as he made his way out.

The shouts from the dining made him pause mid step.

“He can’t do this!”

“Did you see how the battoussai followed him out?”

“He wanted him for himself.”

“You guys are being unreasonable.”

“You’re too young to know; you don’t know what fear is.”

“Shut up.”

“They’re assassinating officials of the Ishin Shishi.”

They were arguing amongst themselves. He felt an overwhelming disgust rise in his throat. They were only thinking about themselves. What would happen to them? He continued his walk back to his room. They’d been here two weeks already. No member from the Mimawari-gumi had been spotted in the area. Still they hadn’t identified the men who’d attacked him on the night of his first patrol.

He slid the door to his room to see her lying form sound asleep. Closing the door he surveyed the dark room. It was too dark. He walked to window and opened it. The rain hadn’t let up at all. The smell of wet dirt made him think about her dojo for some reason. He glanced back to her form hidden under all the blankets. Only some black strands peaked out from under the covers. He smiled inwardly and made his way over to her. Lifting up the blankets he got in with her. His arms wrapped around her form and brought her closer to him. She was always so warm. He smelled her hair; it always smelled like jasmine. Even when the rest of her smelled like him, her hair still smelled of jasmine. His hands rubbed her back absentmindedly. She murmured something that sounded like his name followed by a sigh. He actually smiled at the darkened room. Even in sleep she could not escape him.

His smile slipped of his handsome face. He couldn’t dream of her. He kept having that strange dream. Where he followed someone but there was too much fog to see who it was. He’d thought it was her form a brief period of time but if it was her then there would have been no need for his katana. Her small hands reached out to him then. He looked down at her but she was still asleep. It was odd the way she could sense his mood swings. And no matter how angry he was. She had a way about her. It soothed him, often with her words, sometimes with a touch or a kiss. The result was always the same. He would calm down long enough to listen to reason. He stifled back a yawn. He hadn’t realized he was tired. ‘Kaoru,’ he thought as his body relaxed and his mind drifted off.

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

“DAMN IT” She screeched at the top of her lungs.

Kenshin was sure everyone at the inn had heard her. He was trying to be reasonable but she was making it very difficult with her stubbornness. “No.”

“Kenshin-BAKA! “ She screamed as she stomped her floor down. “You said unless accompanied by three swordsmen.”

“I don’t trust their skill.” He spoke evenly. Not going to raise my voice he thought.

“Then you take me.” She said again.

They’d been arguing for the last half-hour. As soon as he’d told her she couldn’t step out of the Inn the fight had started. “I cannot.”

“Yes you can, you find a way to take me.” She crossed her arms over her chest.

He shook his head.

“Fine.” She said sitting down with her back to him. She stared out the window. The rain had finally stopped it would have been a perfect day to visit the Aoiya. Misao would be so angry if she knew she was in town at had yet to make a friendly call.

‘Over protective’

‘Jerk’

‘Good for nothing rurouni, never should have taken him in’

She kept mumbling things under her breath. He gave an exasperated sigh but didn’t leave the room. He would not leave until it was time to go. His shifts were going to start getting longer and he really wanted to spend his free time with her.

‘Bastard’

“Stop.” He commanded her.

She whirled around so fast it almost startled him. “Excuse me.”

“I said stop.” His voice remained even. He was the man in this relationship and she’d have to learn that what he did, he did for her safety.

Her hands fisted together as she rose onto her feet. Moving away from the window she walked over to him and looked down at him. “Himura Ken” She didn’t get to finish as he got up to answer the door.

“What is it?” He asked crisply.

The messenger was red in the face. “Umm, Yamagata-san wishes to step out. He wishes you to accompany him.” The messenger stepped back as Kenshin stepped out through the door.

“Kenshin you come back here, you . . . .” The rest over her words were drawn out with the click off the door.

The messenger and the battoussai made their way down the stairs even as they heard things breaking in her room. The messenger gave the battoussai a nervous glance to see his reaction but there was none. It was like he hadn’t heard anything at all.

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

Kaoru was steaming. She wanted to rip his head off and give it a couple of good kicks. She sat in the middle of the room away from the broken glass. He’d left the house almost an hour ago. She’d been able to see a bit of his red strands as the gate closed.

She was dressed in a light kimono with a deep purple obi. It was always harder to climb roof tops in these things, she thought as she looked out the window. She nodded at no one in particular and pulled her ponytail tight. She glanced around again but there was no one outside. This was the time they usually changed shifts. She pulled herself out the window and began her climb. She made it out to the roof and paced herself. She didn’t want to make any noise or fall of the roof so she took it slow. She gave a small jump from the roof to a near by tree. She’d just caught onto the branch. With a breath of relief she climbed down the tree. Getting out through the gate seemed like the hardest thing. She hid around the tree for while until she noticed the guard on duty grabbed his stomach and ran off. What luck! She ran for the gate. Opened it quietly and raced out after she closed it. She ran for a while. Eventually she slowed her pace. She’d been in pain the day they had arrived and though she still felt the pain from time to time it wasn’t as bad as it had been then. She walked down the streets till she came to a familiar set of steps. She remembered that’s where she’d sat moments before Yahiko and her had run into Misao. A wistful smile curved her lips. ’Kenshin.’

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

His body stiffened for a moment. He looked around not sure he’d find what he expected. It must have been the wind. It couldn’t have been . . ..

The battoussai felt a bit anxious as he stood guard, though it had nothing to do with his current post. They’d come to a shop were messages were sent to and from their desired destinations.

“Himura.” Yamagata called his friend back to reality. It was odd he didn’t often space out. “There is an urgent message for me to go into the next town. I need to leave immediately. I would appreciate your company.”

Kenshin nodded in acceptance before he knew what he was doing. He realized only too slowly that Yamagata had turned. With quick even strides he was back at Yamagata’s side. They boarded a carriage and set off for Shiga.

They spent the ride over in silence.

They could see smoke coming from the eastern district. When they got there once house stood in a blaze of flames. People were gathered around crying in fear. Word had spread about a group setting fires to entire cities. Rumors had exaggerated the story to the group wanting to spread fire to all of a Japan.

Yamagata descended from the carriage with confusion clearly visible on his face.

The battoussai stood close by watching the people around them. From an alley about eight houses down was a man. He kept peaking and glancing their way. When the man saw the redheaded man starring at him he waved them over rather hastily. The battoussai grabbed Yamagata by the arm and lead him down to alley. There was nothing he couldn’t cut with his katana.

“Yamato what happened?” Yamagata asked with concern. He looked like he’d been beaten up. Yamagata eyed his elbow especially; it looked like it was broken.

“They tried to kill me.”

Understanding came to him then off course they would. “So you do know their location.” Yamagata stated.

Yamato nodded. “It’s in . . .” The sound of something flying though the air caused the battoussai to turn around. He’d been at the entrance of the alley when he’d heard the noise. He’d been too late. Rushing over to Yamagata’s side he noted the dart embedded in the man’s throat. He shoved Yamagata close to the wall before he stepped away from the shadow of the building and peered to look up onto the rooftops. He sensed no one.

“Yamato please can you me tell where they are?” Yamagata pleaded.

“Shiga . . . they’re in . . . O.” He was having problems breathing. “Ot . . O” He closed his eyes shut as he felt his throat constrict. ‘Poisonous dart,’ he thought before his mind drifted to oblivion.

Yamagata stared down the ‘one’ man who knew. Who’d known the location of the Mimawari-gumi. He shook his head sadly. “We need to get in touch with the police. Someone will need to come get him.”

Himura nearly nodded and together they walked

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

Kaoru looked at the sign hanging over the restaurant finally she’d made it. She wasted no more time with a big smile on her face she walked into the restaurant. She saw Omasu and flashed her smile. “Is Misao in?”

Omasu returned the smile and waved her over to her. “She’d inside just go ahead and go right in.” Kaoru bowed in gratitude before stepping into the back. “Misao” Kaoru called out.

Moments later a young women came bounding into the room. “Kaoru-chan.” She responded smiling. “I was wandering when you were going to show up?”

At this Kaoru’s face contorted into confusion.

“Shiro saw you at the train station when you first got here.” Misao looked at her friend closely. “What’s wrong?”

Kaoru hadn’t realized she’d spaced off. “There are things I need to tell you, can we talk in private?” Kaoru asked becoming serious.

Misao nodded. “Let’s go to my room.”

The girls walked to Misao’s room quietly, neither said anything until they were inside the safety of room. “All right what happened?” She asked eagerly.

With a long deep sigh Kaoru began her story of that one dreadful wish.

“You’re kidding me?” Misao asked incredulously.

Kaoru nodded.

“Wow.” She just couldn’t believe it I mean stuff like that didn’t happen and on a blue Moon. Wishes just weren’t granted every day. “But . . . so he doesn’t remember then. The first wife?”

Kaoru shook her head, no.

“Wow, so he’s the hitokiri battoussai?” Misao said. She watched her friend nod. “What’s he like?”

Kaoru’s face suddenly flushed and Misao jumped at the opportunity. “Kaoru-chan.” Misao sang out. “What are you not telling me?”

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

“So you not only failed but you lost nineteen of your men.” Kawamori’s tone was crisp. “That’s a third of your men.”

Minami stood straight awaiting judgment. He’s only answers so far had consisted of “Yes” and “No.”

News had traveled back even before Minami had come back. This would change things. By the amount of resistance they received in Osaka it was obvious that Yamagata knew something. The loss of his four men in Kawaramachi Sanjo though very tragic had also been very enlightening. It meant Yamagata had gathered forces to protect the area. He could over look Kyoto, really he could but this battle. No, this war. It was personal. The Ishin had stolen glory from their grasps. Kyoto had been the turning point for the Ishin Shishi and because of that he just couldn’t turn away. He had to make them pay. All of them.

Minami looked at his commander a little uneasy. The only sigh of his distress was the constant fisting of his hands.

Kawamori turned around suddenly. “How many Shinsegumi casualties?”

“Nine dead and two uncertain.” Minami answered.

Kawamori didn’t like those numbers. If they suffered loss he expected his enemies’ loss to be twice as many. “You and your men will set a post in the outskirts of Kyoto.” He was curt more then he’d ever been with him before. “Don not arrive all at once. Do you understand?” He waited for Minami to respond.

“Yes sir.”

“We will attack Kyoto in a different manner than first devised. Keep low and wait for word. We’ve already suffered loss there.” With that said Kawamori turned his back on Minami and looked out the window.

“Yes sir.” And with those final words Minami left. He gave a deep sigh of relief once he was several feet from Kawamori’s room. He’d though he’d lose a hand or that he’d be executed. He never thought he’d get away that easily. He thanked Kami his father had saved Kawamori once otherwise he’d be dead now. Feeling in brighter spirits he left to gather his men. They could rest once they were in Kyoto.

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

Kaoru and Misao were both beat red. Neither had expected to trip and fall into the river. People had looked at them funny all the way back to the Aoiya. They’d tried to sneak back into the house to no avail.

“Misao.”

Kaoru gave a sigh of relief it was only Okina. Misao’s eyes widen. Behind him, just behind him. “Aoshi-sama.” She breathed. Again both girls turned a crimson color.

Okina was about to ask them something when suddenly Aoshi’s hand settled on the old man’s shoulder. The old man smiled largely at the girls. “I’ll fix you girls a bath.” He said with a wink before he ran off leaving them in the presence of Shinomori Aoshi second contender for the most confusing man in Japan.

Misao was about to open her mouth when he cut her off.

“Step inside before you get sick.” His expression hadn’t changed when he’d spoken to her but it’d been the words. He cared if she got sick. Both girls stared at his retreating back for a moment before they squealed simultaneously.

“Did you pick up on it?” Kaoru asked.

“I did, I was afraid I was the only one.” Misao sighed as she and Kaoru moved towards the bathhouse. “I think being Okashira again will do him some good. I really, really hope he’s like he was before. I still remember the way the corners of his mouth tilted upwards, almost a smile. It happened every time I asked some stupid question.” Misao’s eyes had glazed over in memory.

Kaoru smiled merrily. Looking at the up at the darkening sky she made a mental note, she’d better get home before Kenshin.

“Will you be staying for dinner?”

Kaoru looked back down at Misao. “No I can’t Kenshin will get worried. I don’t think I’ll like the results if he finds me out of the house.”

Misao nodded in understanding. Still she was very curious to see the difference.

“I’ll try to bring him by before we leave.” Kaoru said at seeing the curious glint in Misao’s eyes.

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

Kaoru ran as fast as she could. She had to hurry. Had to hurry. She shouldn’t have stayed so long. She could see the gates up ahead. She was almost there. She slammed against the doors unable to make herself stop. Oh, no. She was supposed to climb the gate not knock on it. The small window slid open just as the first drops of rain began to descend.

The man on the other side was shivering. He got one look at her and thanked Kami for all that was good. “It’s YOU.” He exclaimed. Off all the luck. He swung the door open immediately.

Kaoru didn’t understand he’s reaction but it crept her out. Suddenly she was afraid to go through the gates. And because of that she remained on the threshold. ‘What are you doing?’ apart of her asked. ‘Aren’t we the one that tell Kenshin what to do?’ She frowned. It was true. She did what she wanted. She didn’t need to ask for his permission and if she had snuck out it was his fault. She’d more than asked if he’d take her instead. Feeling righteous anger welling up she took a step forward into the house. She marched into the house ready to rip his head off. She’d been holding back her temper for far too long. This was part of who she was and it was about time he became familiar with it much like the rurouni had.

“Where is SHE?”

The roar of his voice made her stop in her tracks. He wouldn’t hurt her right? Of course not. The whole idea was absurd. Just the same she dashed to the left and climbed the familiar tree. She made it to the rooftop and swung herself into her room landing inside with a thump. Her breathing ragged, she collapsed.

“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.

 Tbc…

Small Note: There were only two new names introduced in this chapter. Hamasu, a man in his middle forties. And Kumamato, an older man about fifty. Both are members of the government. Only those high ranking officials with important ties to Yamagata whether in business or in friendship, were extended and invitation to Kyoto. With the death of the Osaka statesman and because of the way he was killed Yamagata has put all current residents under his care under stricter set of rules. Something they didn’t like one bit.