Borrowed Mishi Kawaii's warning because I strongly agree with her point of view.  (Mishi if you're reading this ::wave:: I say Hi.)

NC-17 Warning:   

Caution-> Hentai/Ecchi/Lemon/Perverted story up ahead, so don't read if you are under eighteen,

but if you do, well that's your own probelm. Also don't read this if you're against sexual

reading material, because you won't like it, although sex *is* a natural part of life and you

wouldn't be here if your parents didn't have sex, but hey, that's just my view! All characters

belong to their creator and a lot of big companies.

Read on, if you really want to...

Click here to read the original, non-hentai, chapters.

Chapter Nine

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

The battoussai flew through the house. He threw the door open so forcefully that nearly ripped the door off. There were men in the yard he could see. There were about sixteen of them.

They had interrupted him.

He had been so close so GOD DAMN CLOSE.

His right hand gripped his katana; he leapt of the first step of the porch and flipped in the air, slashing the first three with the Ryu-Tsui-Sen as he came down. Some of them hesitated but the rest continued to charge on. The battoussai landed gracefully on the ground and waited for the others to come closer. They were defenseless against his battou jutsu. He used the Sou-Ryu-Sen to get the rest of them. He put the sword back in its sheath. There was only one left now.

The battoussai backhanded the man across the face, causing the man to fall back on his knees. “Tell me who sent you?” The battoussai picked the man up by his Gi.

The man was afraid. He wanted to say something but the words were caught in his throat.

The battoussai saw this as impudence, so he slashed the man across the chest. He had drawn blood but didn’t kill him. It was a warning. The man finally spat it out. “Tamono, he wanted to come after you.”

The battoussai knew that name all to well. He knew coming here to Yokohama would alert someone. The Battoussai hit the man on the side of the head and the man fell with a thud. His eyes swept the grounds; there wasn’t anyone out there. At least not now. He looked at the mess in front of him with out remorse. He stepped back inside

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

He found her sitting in the middle of their futon. She had covered herself with a blanket. “Koishii, I need for you to get dressed. Dress in dark colors, something you can move in if necessary. We need to leave quickly.” He helped her off the futon and ushered her to where their clothing was. He took his silk Gi off and put on his usual one.

She was shivering, she was scarred.

“We will go to a friend’s house.” He left her to get her clothes on and waited just outside the door. They had started their ‘activities’ almost after lunch so it was still pretty early.

As she walked out he gabbed her hand. “Koishii,” her face held tearstains.

I promise to tell you everything later. Once I think it’s safe. We are leaving as a precaution.” He kissed her tenderly. He could taste the salt of her tears.

He grabbed her hand and led her out the back, where there were no bodies to frighten her.

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

The knocking was loud. It had startled her from her reading. She ran to the door to see who it was.

“Himura-san, Kaoru-san what are you doing here?” The feminine voice was very surprised to see them.

“Toki-dono. We need to come in.” The battoussai’s eyes had lost the amber shade but they still retained a warning for all to stay away.

“Gomen Nasai. Please come in.” Toki moved away from the door and allowed the two to come in. She led them into the room she had been reading and offered them tea. The battoussai accepted the tea, knowing Kaoru needed something to calm her nerves.

She served them tea and waited.

“Kaoru and I were attacked today in the place we were staying at.”

Toki gasped, poor Kaoru. No wonder she looked so distraught.

“I took care of the men who attacked us tonight but I don’t know how many more there are. I need for you to allow Kaoru to stay here tonight.”

“Kenshin, NO.” Kaoru started to protest but he held her close.

“Koishii no one knows we’re friends with Toki, you’ll be safe here. I need to take care of this tonight.” His eyes held so much love and conviction.

“It’s no problem Kaoru-san; you may stay here for as long as needed. It’ll be nice to have some company.” Toki smiled at Kaoru.

“I‘ll go get your room ready.” Toki excused herself.

“Kenshin, no. I don‘t want you to leave. What if something happens to you? It’s our wedding night, don’t.” She was cut off.

He kissed her hard. He made it long and sensual. “Koishii you don‘t need to remind me.” He smiled at her. “I was going to show you my reasons today remember.”

She nodded.

“You understand I need to do this to keep us safe right?”

He caressed her face, “I wouldn’t want to leave you for a minute and then come back to find someone had taken you.” The amber flecks started to come back. He had one to many memories of this happening already.

She could see it would more than hurt him. If this is what he felt he needed to do then she would let him. “All right Kenshin.”

“Just promise me you’ll come back as soon as you can.” This time she kissed. Her kiss held promises of love and much more.

It was hard for him to break away from that. “I will always come back koishii. I swear to you, I will.” He touched her bangs, the side of her face and the curve of her lips. He pecked her one last time and left.

Kaoru watched him leave.

Toki cleared her throat. “Kaoru-san I think you have much to tell me.”

Kaoru turned beat red. “Toki-san how long have you been standing there?”

“Long enough now come tell me.” Toki grabbed Kaoru by the hand and led her to the room she had prepared.

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

The battoussai headed back to the Inn, to see if their things had been gone through. When he got there though he noticed everything was were it should be. He was headed back out when the man at the desk stopped him.

“Himura-dono, there is a message for you.” The grandfather looking man gave him the note.

The battoussai took the note and read it by the fire near the entrance to the Inn.

Himura,

I hope this note finds you well. I just got news that Tamono has escaped. It is my belief that he will come after you. You’d be doing us a favor by capturing him. If you require any assistance please contact me.

- Yamagata

The battoussai looked at the note one last time before he threw it in the fire.

He’d go see Yamagata now.

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

“Himura?”

“He sent some men after me today. I was with my wife when they attacked me.” Himura’s expression was unreadable.

Yamagata had known him long enough to know he was angry now. But wait what did he say. “You’ve got her with you? Why didn’t you bring her here?”

“She’s some place safe. I need for you to send some men to clean up. It needs to be done quietly. No one was to know I was in Yokohama.” Himura’s voice was frosty.

“Of course. I‘ll gather up some men.” Yamagata had been sleeping. But this woke him up. There were bodies. Hmm, I wonder when they got married, he thought.

One wagon and several men following on horses accompanied the battoussai back to the house. They cleaned everything up while the battoussai looked around.

Dawn was approaching and he was better able to see. He saw lots of footprints; he followed them back to a small clearing. Out of all of them only one set had retreated. He followed the set. It looked like the person had run through here. He could tell by the indentations on the ground and all the broken branches he had left in the wake of his escape.

They led back to the city.

Where would he go if he were Tamono. The battoussai took a moment to analyze the situation. He would either leave the city immediately or hide in the bad part of town. It was a toss up.

Kenshin set out for the bad part of town. The first place he looked was in the brothels, nothing. Looked in the bars, nothing. He really was starting to get pissed. He emerged out of the and part of town in a fowl mood. He looked up at the sun, mid-day. It would soon be lunchtime.

He looked down again to see Yamagata coming out of the police station.

He ran over. “Have you had word?”

“Aa, Himura. Will you believe he turned himself in?” Yamagata had been putting his glove on and didn’t notice Himura leave. “Himura?”

The battoussai walked into that police station. He was really pissed. He had spent all night looking for this Bastard. His only incentive had been that he was going to kick his ass before he killed him. He’d interrupted him at a very important time. Not only that he’d scarred Kaoru. It was his fault she had started to cry.

“Oi! You can’t come in here” some cop the battoussai noted before he hit him and sent him flying back.

The other policemen watched as he approached Tamono’s cell.

Tamono had woken up when the cop had yelled. His face first showed surprise then fear. He was supposed to be safe once he was in custody.

“Himura!” Yamagata saw him opening the door to the cell. “Grab him!”

He yelled at the police.

The policemen turned to him all showing the same stupefied expression.

Tamono had come in here earlier rambling about how he’d made a mistake. He’d kept rambling even as they threw him in the cell, all they had understood was. Hitokiri Battoussai. Pissed. And going to kill me.

They had thought he was rambling.

The watched as the battoussai beat the man. Yamagata ran by them.

“Himura! Stop, he didn’t hurt anyone this time.” Yamagata was trying to restrain him with his body weight.

He pulled on him hard and both went tumbling back. The battoussai had been able to cut the fingers of the left hand, though.

He had meant to take the whole arm off. “Kuso”

“I know you’re angry but I give you my word Himura, Tamono will never bother you again.” Yamagata was blocking the cell.

The battoussai looked at him for a long moment.

“If he ever comes near me again, I won’t be held responsible.”

The battoussai left the station. He had worked out his frustration. He would have liked to have killed him but it seemed it wasn’t possible at the moment. If he were lucky though, Tamono would break out of jail again sometime in the near future.

Yamagata sighed, “Some one get that hand bandaged up.”

The battoussai made his way back to the house to gather their things up. He doubted she’d want to come back to this place. He looked at the futon in the middle of the room. His blood began to blaze again. It was just as they’d left it. He picked up the blanket she had used to cover herself up in. He smelled it. She must have used the blanket to clean herself with because it smelled of her, her jasmine sent with a mixture of her arousal.

He closed his eyes and his fingers clenched the blanket. He’d been so close; he’d tasted her. After the scare he had, he felt he had needed to stay close to her. Being by her bedside as she had slept, the watching. It hadn‘t been enough. He had needed to hold her. But that hadn’t been enough. He then had felt he needed to touch her, to taste her. But now that he had, he knew it wasn’t enough either. He’d only be satisfied when he could finally posses her.

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

Kaoru had been bundle of nerves all morning long. Now that she was playing with the children Takani-san taught, she was feeling a little better. Not much but they served as a distraction. She loved children.

At the moment she was carrying a little girl with deep black hair and eyes similar to her own, to the washing basin. She’d been playing with a little boy and another girl had run by and pushed her into the mud. This had resulted in the little girl wailing. So Kaoru had run to her and picked her up so she could clean her.

“Now, now don’t cry anymore” she said to the little girl. Kaoru took the time to undo the little girls’ hair and get the mud out. She finished cleaning her up and braided the little girls hair again, “See good as new.”

The little girl felt her braids and hugged her. “Thanks lady.” The shy girl ran off to play with the same little boy who’d been waiting for her to come back to him.

“I’m ready to make my own, now.” The deep voice had startled her.

“Kenshin!” She ran to him and hugged him tightly.

She obviously hadn’t heard what he’d said. “Koishii are you ready to go?”

“Hai, I just need to thank Toki-san and then we can go.” Kaoru ran off to tell her friend of her husband’s return and to thank her.

She came back a bit flushed. “We can go now.” She said latching on to his arm.

Kenshin surveyed the entire yard making sure there weren‘t any other men around. Why was she blushing?

“What did Toki-san say?” He looked at her expectantly.

Kaoru turned a shade darker than before. “She just said that it wasn’t a problem me staying here. She liked the company.”

She had stopped but he felt there was more to the story.

“She said.” She just couldn’t bring herself to say it. After last night Toki and her hand become really good friends. Toki had even teased her this morning. But now Kenshin was present. “She said, she hoped I enjoy being your wife that’s all.”

“Is that how she said it.” He asked turning to look at her.

Silence.

“Yes.” She wouldn’t look at him.

They were walking down the street when she felt herself pushed into an alley and pressed against a side of a building. He parted her legs with his knee and pressed further into her. He nuzzled her and sucked on her earlobe. He sought her mouth and kissed her.

He pulled back. “You’re a liar Koishii.”

Her eyes showed surprised and her mouth turned into a pout. She looked away.

He kept staring but she refused to look at him. He was not always going to get his way.

“Kenshin I haven’t eaten since you left. I was too worried about you. Do you think we could grab some lunch?” She turned but didn’t meet his gaze. She kept her eyes on his chest.

He felt bad. He’d completely forgotten about eating. “Of course koishii lets go.” He pulled back and grabbed her hand.

They walked to a small restaurant hand in hand.

They ate while Kaoru talked.

.......And then the other girl pushed her. I think she was jealous. So I picked her up and cleaned her up. You came in a bit after that.” She stopped long enough to chew and then went on.

“Did you find who you were looking for?” She smiled at him.

How does one answer that? “Yes I did. I looked for him all night but turns out he turned himself in sometime early in the morning.”

“Oh no,” she said. Her face scrunching in distaste.

“Did it make you mad? What did you do?” She was very interested to know.

He smiled at her. “Yes, it made me angry.”

“Well, what did you do?” She was leaning over the table.

“I hit him.” Not a lie. Just not the complete truth. He had hit him several times.

“Oh anata.” She sighed her disapproval.

“You seem to forget they interrupted us during a very important moment.” He watched for her reaction.

Kaoru choked on her radish.

He patted her back.

The rest of the meal she spent rambling on about shopping. Anything to keep him from talking.

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

They had finally made it back to the room at the Inn. Kaoru was beat they had spent the whole after noon shopping. They had three more days; tomorrow however all she wanted to do was sleep. Sleep all day long.

She changed while he went to take a bath. She felt so tired. She didn’t think she’d be able to make it through dinner. Hmm, her futon was so soft. Maybe she could take a small nap before they got to go to dinner.

Kenshin came back from his bath to find her fast asleep. Things just weren’t working out for him these days. He spared her a longing look. He couldn’t just wake her. He got into bed with her. “When I finally get you koishii.” He said before he kissed her forehead and held her close.

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

Kaoru woke up with a start. She had dreamt she’d been running and then she fell. “Weird.”

She sat up and there was Kenshin at the foot of the bed with his eyes closed. Just sitting there, waiting.

She felt nervous. “Kenshin?”

“Koishii.” His voice was deep and sultry.

Oh no, Kaoru swallowed hard.

“I thought maybe we could go home early.” She said.

Kenshin’s eyes flew open. He watched her.

“Is that what you want?”

Kaoru hid her arms in the sleeves of her yukata; his voice made the hairs on her arms stand up. She looked at him straight in the eye.

“I don’t want to be away from the dojo too long.” It was a lie. And he could always tell when she lied.

So she waited and he stared.

All of a sudden he got up and headed for the door. He needed to leave, his control was being held back by very weak restraints.

She was up before she could realize what she was doing. She grabbed him from behind, and latched on. “Where are you going?”

Kenshin closed his eyes.

Her arms were around his waist. She pressed herself closer and leaned her cheek on the flat of his back. “You can’t leave.”

“Koishii.” He was at a standstill.

“Will you wait till I bathe before we go out and have breakfast?” She felt torn between what she felt and what she thought. She had these impetuous impulses that were getting harder to ignore. Too impulsive. Tae said she had been very impulsive.

“All right.” The voice was neutral and it made her want to cry.

She was afraid to let go of him but she did. She grabbed her things but saw Kenshin make no move to go with her.

She left the room and walked to the bathhouse at a quick pace. Her tears fell right as she closed the door.

Kenshin looked at the closed door and laid back on the futon. He closed his eyes. He had always had so much control over his emotions as the rurouni. But the moment he resorted back to his old self, his emotions pulled at him from all directions. Kaoru was the main problem. The rurouni had a handle on all emotions she might provoke, at least on the old Kaoru. But this Kaoru, she wasn‘t quit the same and it was hard to deal with her when she responded so well to his advances. It wasn’t her fault he knew he’d suppressed his feeling for her for so long that when he finally let go he became ruled by their intensity. He had two objectives. One, make her fall in love with him. Two make her want him at least half as badly as he wanted her. What was he to do?

She came out of the bathhouse cleaner but not feeling any better. She was on her way back to her room when someone‘s voice broke her out of her reverie. “Are you all right miss?” The old man from the front desk.

“I’m fine sir, thank you.” She looked down at his tray.

He saw her starring at his tray “here why don‘t you drink it.” She shouldn’t and usually she wouldn’t.

He gave her the bottle and kaoru drank it in one huge gulp.

She coughed, it burned her throat.

“Here,” he said giving her a large slice of peach.

Kaoru took it. And in a hoarse voice, thanked him. The old man smiled at her and walked away.

Kaoru stood there for a moment. She felt heavy. Her hands felt fuzzy. But it was like the fuzziness was from with in. She felt at ease now. She gave a lazy smile to one in particular and made her way back to the room.

She used her right hand to keep her balance all the way to the room. When she got to her room she straightened up and opened the door.

She closed the door and dropped her robe.

Kenshin was lying on his back. He had his eyes closed and held the ridge of his nose with his right hand, almost like he had a headache.

She knelt down in between his legs and put her hands on the futon, right by the sides of his face. “Kenshin.” She whispered near his ear. Her voice was breathy

Kenshin had been deep in thought when she came in. He knew she had to change so why bother opening his eyes but when she said his name his eyes snapped open.

When his eyes snapped open. She lowered herself over him and rubbed her body against him. She felt an immediate reaction.

Kenshin arms had gone around her waist, his eyes had remained open. She wasn’t acting like herself.

Kaoru’s mouth sought his Adams’ apple, she licked it. She lowered her mouth to his ear and stuck her tongue in it. She bit his earlobe and moaned into his ear.

That was about as far as she got.

He flipped them over so she was beneath him and held her hands over her head.

He looked at her briefly before he kissed. He was hungry for her but pulled away almost immediately. She tasted of alcohol. He let her hand go and started to pull back.

“No.” She grabbed a hold of his waist with her legs.

Too much intimate contact for him. He closed his eyes.

She pushed her hips up and he pushed his down in return.

Her hands tried to pull at his Gi. He watched her struggle for a bit before he took it off himself. He ripped his hakama off and she gasped.

He watched her eyes become a deep blue. Her pupils had dilated. She was aroused. “Is this what you wanted” His voice was deep. He saw her shiver.

“Kenshin.“ She said stroking his chest. He was over her but not on her.

He looked at her. She was still a child in many ways unsure of what she wanted.

Her legs came around him again thrusting herself up.

“Kaoru.“ He growled and pushed her back down hard. In her movement she had managed to get the tip in to her folds. She gasped and he tried to put distance between them but she had very strong legs.

“Let go.” He was trying very hard.

“No” She said, struggling against his hold on her arms.

“You don’t know what you want.” His grip on her hands tightened.

“All I want is you.” her eyes looked into his but his hold didn’t loosen.

“All right,” She said sounding defeated. His hold on her loosened and she took the opportunity to get a better grip on him. She thrusted herself up and let her arms come around his neck. She made a whimpering sound, then. He lowered them to the futon being careful of his movements.

He raised his head so he could look into her face. This is not how he’d wanted things.

Her face was to the side; she had her eyes closed. She took a deep breath and allowed her body to lowered into the futon. Kenshin started to raise off of her when she thrusted back up.

He growled and she clamped on him harder. She might be angrier later on, it was a possibility but there was no way he could continue to hold back.

He grabbed her face by the sides and gave her a scorching kiss.

He was being rough with her but she seemed to enjoy it. Relish in it.

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

Two days passed by, all too fast, Kaoru though, as she lay awake in Kenshin’s arms. Tomorrow was the last day of their little vacation.

“Aren’t you the least bit tired koishii?” Kenshin didn’t open his eyes but tighten his hold on her. Kaoru blushed.

She stroked his chest lovingly and allowed her hand to trail down, slowly. “I want to take a bath.”

He opened his eyes and grinned at her. “Am I allowed inside the bathhouse?”

Her hand continued its journey down till she was able to cup him. She stroked him and them gave him a squeeze. She rolled away and stood up. She put on his robe and looked down at his naked form. She smiled, “No” and then ran as fast as she could through the door, slamming it close in her get away. Trying to get to the bathhouse before he did and lock him out.

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

Today was another shopping day. She had gifts to buy and then tomorrow they would head home to the dojo. Life just kept getting better and betters for her. She couldn’t wait till she got home to tell Tae all the details. She thought of Kenshin and started to get flushed. Maybe not all the details.

Her day seemed to float by. Is this what being married was all about she thought. Everything seemed brighter and happier. She had a grin she just couldn’t wipe off her face. She smiled at the children, she smiled at the women she smiled at the men, but then she’d get nudged. And her grin would turn wider when she turned to see Kenshin eyeing the men evilly. Her anata.

She was going to be a little sad to leave this place.

“Koishii, did you hear me?” Kenshin was sitting in front of her but she seemed to be in a daze.

“Nani?” She turned her eyes to him. She hadn’t heard a word he’d said.

“What are you thinking about?” His eyes were curious.

“I was thinking, how I’m the happiest person alive.”

“Koishii.” He stroked her cheek. She was his whole world. And as such he would give her all she wanted, He’d keep her safe and he’d love her with his last breath. All she had to do was look at him the way she was now. With so much love she could hardly contain it.

She seemed to read all his thoughts through his eyes.

She grabbed a hand full of his Gi and brought his mouth to hers. “Let’s go back to the Inn.” He nodded and they left the restaurant with out having their dinner.

Chapter Ten

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

“Ah, finally back at the dojo,” Kaoru thought to herself as she lay on her futon, correction their futon.

They had gotten back sometime in the afternoon. Everyone had already been expecting them. They even had dinner ready.

She had told them about the small wedding and although they were shocked they were all very happy for them. She found it odd, though that they kept telling Kenshin it was about time. Exactly how long had they been involved? “Hmm.”

On the other hand though Yahiko had given her good news. Seems some people had watched them practice and now they wanted to start taking lessons. Yahiko had told them to come back in a couple of days. So they’d be by any day now. The thought of teaching made her happy. She yawned. How long does it take to walk the grounds? Kenshin better hurry before I fall asleep. She’d been hardly sleeping these last couple of days. She smiled. “That’s why I’m tired.”

“Then you should rest.” Kenshin was at the door. He had made sure that everything was fine and had locked up. Too many people in Yokohama had found out about him and now he needed to keep an eye out. Especially for any wolfs that might come by sniffing around.

“Are you coming to bed?” She said looking at him threw her lashes.

“Hai, koishii.” He changed his clothes and lay beside her. She snuggled up to him and draped her arm over his chest.

He kissed her forehead. And they fell asleep.

Morning came; it found Kaoru alone in her futon.

She stirred and felt around for her husband. She didn’t feel anything, so she opened one eye. He wasn’t there. “Mou, Kenshin-Baka.” He always got up before she did.

Kaoru got up and dressed. She was walking out to the have breakfast when Yahiko rounded the corner and scared her half to death. She let out a long piercing scream. She held her hand over her heart. “Yahiko don’t do that.”

Kenshin burst in on them. He had heard her scream; his eyes had taken on the eerie blue gleam. Yahiko shuddered.

“Is everything all right, koishii?” He asked as he gave a cautious glance to the room.

“Hai, anata. Yahiko just scared me.” She smiled at him. He nodded.

“Are you going to join me for breakfast?”

“Hai.”

He served her breakfast, which took her by surprise. But found it extremely adorable.

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

“So all of you want to learn the Kamiya Kasshin Ryu.” She spoke to those who were to be her student.

She addressed six children. Four boys and two girls. They all seemed about the same age, about 12 or thirteen.

They all nodded, they seemed very eager.

“Well, let me tell you a bit of what I teach and then you decide if it’s something you want to do, ok.”

They nodded again and she smiled at them.

“If you decide to stay then you will be required to come here every weekday from ten to twelve. Practicing what you learn is very important.” Her would be student sat in front of her while she spoke to them. They listened intently as she spoke of Katsuji-ken and how the Kamiya Kasshin Ryu embodied all those ideals. A sword to protect not harm. She spoke to them with great vigor, explaining to them certain aspects that she herself found interesting. When she was done she called Yahiko to her and they gave the children a small demonstration.

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

Kenshin was out by the river practicing. Since she had woken up with her amnesia that day that’s all he had done. Practicing his moves, his skill. He practiced everyday till lunchtime and then returned after that. At first he had been afraid that she would be left all alone so he‘d limited his time to two hours a day, with out her budo she was truly alone. But then Yahiko and her had started practicing and soon the memory of that came back to her.

The doctor had said that most of her memory should come back to her within the first month. After that it was going to get harder for her to remember. She only seemed to remember things about herself and two other people. People she met years before him. Her father was something she was starting to remember but not clearly. It was mainly what he taught her that she remembered with great accuracy.

He was beginning to doubt she’d ever remember him like he was when they first met. Which was just fine with him. He couldn’t imagine going back to sessha this and sessha that. It was insane. He still couldn’t believe he had let guilt drive him to the point of acting like that.

It seemed that in the midst of everything he had forgotten why he had started his role as the Hitokiri Battoussai. He had wanted to protect those who couldn’t protect themselves. He had learned a skill, which allowed him to turn the tide for the Ishin Shishi. Their Ideals of a Meiji era were the ones who had caught his attention. He did what he’d done so that now years later there wouldn't be anymore bloodshed. Anymore small revolts through out different part of the country were innocent people were always bound to get hurt.

It was now years later and he no longer ‘had’ to kill. He could finally be at peace, live a life. The only problem was that people with old grudges kept coming after him. But one of the reasons they kept on doing it, aside from their hate for him was because he hadn’t made an example out of the first one. If they had still feared him they wouldn’t dared come after him.

Kenshin continued his exercise all the while his thought kept turning.

He was no longer an hitokiri. He would not kill out of duty for the government. Kaoru was his life and that’s all he needed. All he’d protect and the only thing he’d kill for. Kenshin’s Katana split the ground with his Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu, Do Ryu Sen causing debris. He sighed; his excise was at an end for today. He looked up at the sky and wondered if Gohei stared up at it too. Did he know what was coming?

While he didn’t kill for sport, he still couldn’t let this go.

She had been taken from him before but never had she actually been that close to death. If she hadn’t been found by whomever had helped her, she’d be dead. And then all would have been lost. Mainly his soul because if she had died, she would have taken that with her.

He better get back or she’d start to worry. His koishii.

He ran off through the wood and headed home.

“Sshp,” The sound a match makes.

A figure dressed in black comes to stand at the spot where he had been practicing.

He takes a drag of his cigarette and exhales the smoke.

The man smile but it’s a predatory smile. “Battoussai”

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

Kaoru’s students had come back, not only that they’d brought two more with them. These other two were more like young adults then children. They seemed to be about 14 or 15.

Kaoru loved teaching. She had liked teaching Yahiko but having a whole class, that was just wonderful. Not only that but Yahiko could have someone to spar with other than her, now. Someone who he’d be more comfortable to showing his new moves to. Well maybe not right away, after all, she’d only been teaching them a little over a week.

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

“How was class koishii?” He asked her while he took a beef strip out of her bowl.

She narrowed her eyes at him, “It was just fine, and they seem to be quick learners. I love teaching them.” She put her hand over his to keep him from taking another piece.

He smiled at her. “I’m glad to see you happy.” He flicked the wrist she held and caught the meat with his mouth.

“Mou Kenshin, you cheat.” She made pouted.

He grinned at her. “Don’t pout koishii, or I won’t bring you anything back from my trip.”

Her eyes widen; she’d been so excited lately with teaching her class she’d totally forgotten that he was going off again. Her lip quivered.

“Koishii don’t.” He shook his head.

“Kenshin I don’t want you to go.” She looked at him pleadingly.

He sighed. “I told you a while back I was going to need to go back to Yokohama.”

“All right then I’ll go with you.” She nodded in affirmation. That way he wouldn’t be alone.

“Koishii you have a class now. You just can’t leave.” He continued to eat. No matter how much she pleaded or tried to bribe him. He smiled at the thought. He would not let her go with him.

There was an assignment in Yokohama but that was only a daylong. He was going to China after that.

“Kenshin.” Ugh “Now you’re not even listening.” She was annoyed. Why couldn’t she go?

“Say again.” He lifted his eyes to her.

“I said I promise I won’t get in the way. It’ll be like last time. You’ll go do that bodyguard thing you do and I’ll wait at the Inn.” She grabbed his hand and brought it close to her heart.

He loved her so much. That was not helping things.

“No koishii, you seem to forget we were attacked last time.” He closed his eyes so he wouldn’t have to look into her eyes. He shook his head.

“Kenshin.” She hissed

“No.” He felt her Ki going up. She was getting ready to fight.

“Koishii I will be leaving almost after lunch. I don’t want to argue before I go.” He reached out to caress her face but she pulled back.

“Fine.” She got to her feet and left.

“koishii.” He called after her. He couldn’t follow her she’d try to get him to take her. I’m sorry he thought. He took two more bites of his food but found it had lost its flavor.

He cleared the plates and took them to the washing basin.

It was a good thing he’d brought out some money before she enclosed herself in their room.

Kenshin stood outside their room.

“Koishii I’m leaving.” He listened closely for any movements.

Silence.

“Don’t you want to kiss me good-bye?” He stepped back from the door a bit.

“NO! Go on your stupid trip. See if I care!” She rested her head again on the futon. Baka, doesn’t he know, she worries. At least in the same town she’d have an idea as to his whereabouts should something happen. But here like this, she’d have to wait over a week before she even knew something had gone wrong.

“All right koishii.” He steeped back from the door and turned to leave. Purposely making sounds with his movements.

“ I’ll see you in a week or so.”

He got to the front door and she still didn’t follow him. Hmm, she must really be upset he thought.

Kaoru head shot up when she heard him starting to leave. Her body moved to get up but she made herself still. No, one week was not going to kill her. Hmm, she should at least have kissed him good-bye though. Her body jerked up again but still she didn’t allow herself to get up. So, she just laid there, on her back on the futon in the middle of the day. She sniffled and blinked.

Blinked a whole lot more but her vision started to get blurry. So she just closed her eyes. She stayed that way for at least half an hour. She got up and decided that what she really needed was a bath.

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

The train ride over to Yokohama was boring. It always was without company. He didn’t care much for the scenery; he’d seen it already.

As expected, it was nightfall when he got there. He made his way to Yamagatas’ house. He’d stay there for tonight. He’d complete his assignment in about a day and a half. And then be off to Hong Kong.

He walked soundlessly through the streets, often surveying the entire area before continuing. Here he was to be extra careful.

He continued to make his way down till he got to the familiar house. He stood at the door, he felt odd. He looked out behind him, reaching out with his senses. There was no noise.

“Himura-san,” Yamagatas’ maid was standing at the door. Waiting for him to come in.

He turned and walked inside.

“Wait here, I’ll go get him.” She scurried of to get Yamagata.

He stood in the middle of the room.

“Himura glad you could make it.” Yamagata greeted his friend. He came into the room and took a sit at his desk.

“Here.” He said handing him a little piece of paper.

“There is a cargo ship headed for China in two days. Leaves early in the morning.”

Himura nodded.

“He’s been spotted in the western district. Always around the same area, near the Man Mo Temple.”

“You of course will be staying here tonight, Am I correct?”

“Hai. Arigato Yamagata.”

Himura bid him good night and went to bed.

He took the same room as always. Today, he noted the room looked lonely. He sat by the fireplace and took his rest.

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

Kaoru laid on her futon. Her eyes burned. She hadn’t been able to fall asleep all night. Soon it would be time for breakfast.

She missed Kenshin.

She got up and dressed in her training clothes. Might as well get started.

Kaoru day was a blur.

She had her breakfast. Well some at least.

She had taught her class being more cheerful than usual and came back to the room.

The sun had set.

Maybe she should have tried to have some dinner since she didn’t have lunch. She blinked slowly; she just didn’t have the energy.

Maybe sleeping would do her some good. She sighed and turned to the side, “Ken-shin.” She whispered.

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

The battoussai was in a fowl mood.

The idiot he was guarding confused bodyguard with servant. He obviously didn’t know who he was dealing with. His eyes narrowed and his anger become apparent.

“I don’t know why my brother hired you when you can’t even follow simple instructions.” Sino Tian, little brother to a High-ranking official here in Yokohama was in town for a visit. But because the elder brother had a brusque way in dealing with people, he’d gained the hate of many with only three years in office. So far there had been four attempts on his life, all unsuccessful, minor set backs in the orchestraters point of view. Because of these happenings the brother had set out to find the best bodyguard money could buy for his one and only little brother. He hired the man best known as the Hitokiri Battoussai.

The battoussai’s eyes burned with the urge to rip his throat out. The Ice blue gleam turned to an amber glow. Giving him the appearance of an animal.

The insolent man didn’t seem to understand. He stared him right in the eye. Captured by the phenomena that were Battoussai’s eyes.

He gripped the handle of his katana. He sensed something. He threw Sino to the floor just as somebody shot at them. Kenshin deflected the bullet with his sword, something possible only when holding the blade at a certain angle. Sino’s eyes widened.

He saw the man right before he shot at them again. There was only one, so it wouldn’t be any trouble to stopping him. He ran to the side and disappeared from the mans’ sight, he reappeared a second later and hit the man on the side of the head with the flat of his katana. The man fell to the side, unmoving. The battoussai stared at the man a second before he re-sheath his sword. He was going to have a major headache in the morning. Maybe he could knock ‘Sino’ out for the rest of the day. He certainly wouldn’t get in to trouble then. Hmmm

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

Second day with out Kenshin. She had gone to sleep early only to wake up after midnight and not be able to fall asleep. There was no way she could last a week. He had said a week or so. Hmm, she should have taken that kiss good-bye.

The sun would be up soon. Kaoru got up and made her way to the washing basin. Odd, she expected to see Kenshin there. Though she had never seen him wash their clothing.

Why would he be there?

Kenshin practiced during the day he didn’t do housework. Hmm.

Kaoru looked at the basin a moment longer before she got started on the laundry. When she was done she moved on to clean the dojo being careful not to wake anyone else up.

By the time Yahiko and Kenshin had woken up breakfast was on the table. It actually smelled good.

They took their places and ate. Talking about anything other than Kenshin.

Class started soon after breakfast, she went out of her way to give each of the kids extra attention, by the time she was done she was beat. She took her bath taking the time to wash her hair and scrub her body. She hated feeling needy.

She left the bathhouse angry with herself; she stomped all the way to their room.

She had missed lunch again but today she was going to eat no more self-pity. Now though she just needed a nap. After that she was going to eat and go on with her day.

“Kenshin, ” I scream as this man runs Kenshin through with his sword and twists the blade and throws Kenshin off.

Hirazuki, it has no blind spots.

It was developed by the assistant leader of the Shinsegumi. A military genius, Toshizo Hijikata

Especially if that Gotatsu is mine.

This man, this stranger I don’t know. He’s dressed in black with short sleeked hair and odd bangs. I’m afraid of what he will unleash.

I see Kenshin panting on the floor when his breathing evens out just enough; I see both of them charge at each other again.

I hear swords clash and Kenshin gets thrown back against one of the dojo walls. I run to his side but I stop when I come close enough to see the color of his eyes. It scares me, it shouldn’t because it’s the color of my husband’s eyes but here and now, they do. I step back from the look his eyes have taken. But I hear this other man ordering Kenshin to stand up.

What can I do?

I stand between then and this stranger tells me I’m in the way but I don’t care. Kenshin puts his hand on my shoulder and then moves me away to the side.

He has a deep chest wound that doesn’t stop him.

I see Kenshin run at the man but then he blurs before my eyes. The other man has lost sight of him too but only for a moment, he sees Kenshin in time and kicks him back.

Kenshin’s eyes are closed, he’s holding his side and breathing heavily. When he opens his eyes they’re amber, again it’s a color I know but I fear it. With my whole being I fear it.

Kenshin has stood up and is walking toward the center, his sword glints as he walks. It’s odd because there is something about the blade that seems different than the Katana my husband carries.

The man is telling Kenshin he’s not going to hold back anymore. He growls at Kenshin and thrusts his sword at Kenshin's chest but Kenshin is fast and doges the move. He sweeps underneath him and as the man passes by, Kenshin’s sword hits the man in the back of the neck. The man crashes through a wall.

They’re talking about finishing a duel. Something I don’t care about I just want that man to leave. Leave and never come back. He will take Kenshin away. The Kenshin I love.

The man stands up and tells Kenshin, he will kill him.

Kenshin’s voice is flat but there is an under current almost like disbelief or amusement. He answers the man. “You kill me? That’s my line.”

I feel faint and fall to my knees.

“It’s exactly the same as the time with Jin-e.” I hear my self-say.

Kenshin re-sheathes his sword and takes his stance. The other man growls again and I know what’s coming. He will charge at Kenshin.

I start to cry

“Someone”

“Please”

I hear metal. I see the movements. I’m afraid if this keeps up the Kenshin I know will disappear.

They’ve been fighting and when Kenshin tells the man that next strike his head will fall, it’s too much for me. I yell for someone to stop them.

This is how I wake up. Screaming for someone t stop them. I’m breathing heavy and I touch my face I’m crying. This dream. It felt so real. Before I realize what I’m doing I have a small bag packed and am looking for some money. I find it almost right away. I’m leaving.

I’m going to Kenshin.

I’m afraid of this dream but I don’t know why. I know what Kenshin used to be he told me. I don’t know. All I know is I need Kenshin.

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

The battoussai sits in the small quarters of this ship. It wont take him long to get to China. He hopes to accomplish it all in three days. Three days before he can be with his wife again. It seems like a long time. But then he’ll be able to have peace of mind knowing that the next time he goes somewhere, Gohei won’t be there, ready to snatch her away from him. He closed his eyes and took his rest. It will all be over soon.

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

Kaoru has reached Yokohama but now where should she go? First things first find out where Yamagata Aritomo lives. Kenshin had said he was an old friend. A friend who just happen to live here.

Kaoru headed in the direction of the police station.

She was passing by a Jewelry store when someone grabbed her hand.

She looked up to find an older gentleman gazing down at her. She didn’t know him but she had this nagging feeling that she should.

“Kamiya Kaoru or should I say Misses Himura?” The voice was very distinguished, commanding.

She looked at him, puzzlement was written all over her feature.

“Do I know you sir?”

“He stared at her for a moment. “Yamagata Aritomo, I’m a friend of your husband.”

Her eyes lit up and she gave him a dazzling smile. Of all the luck.

The elder man coughed, she was making him nervous.

“Yamagata-san I was just on my way to find you. I’m trying to find Kenshin. It’s very important. Do you know where he is?” She watched his face for any signs of a lie.

Hmm, Himura hadn’t said anything about not telling his wife or anybody else for that matter where he was going. “You missed him. He left for China today, sometime in the morning, there were some things he needed to take care off.” He was genuine in his story.

Kaoru’s eyes got glossy and her bottom lip began to quiver.

“Are you all right Himura-san?” He helped steady her.

She tried in desperation to blink her tears back. “You can call me Kaoru.” She said.

“Are you all right Kaoru-san?” He helped her down she was going limp in his arms.

“I need to be with Kenshin right now. I thought for sure I’d find him here.” She was going to start falling apart. It was that stupid dream it had made her afraid of something. Something she couldn’t remember.

He looked though full for a moment. “Well there is a passenger ship heading out tomorrow afternoon for China.”

She hushed her inner thoughts. “Where can I buy a ticket? I need to buy be on that boat.”

“I can take care of that. Where will you be staying? I’ll have someone bring you the ticket.”

“Umm, Saiyin. How will I find Kenshin, though?” Her face had contorted into panic.

“He was going to a temple in the West district. Its called Man Mo. It’s in Hong Kong. Here let me take you to the inn.” He helped her up and kept her steady till he got her checked in.

“Can you make it to the room on your own?” Yamagata held fatherly concern in his voice.

“Hai, Arigato Gozaimas Yamagata-san.” She bowed low. She was very thank full for his help.

“It’s no problem Kaoru-san.” He waited till she was on her way to the room before he left the Inn.

I wonder what’s so important that she’d follow him all the way to Hong Kong he thought as he got to his carriage an stepped in.

Something occurred to him, but no it couldn’t be. Although.................

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

Knocking.

The knocking was getting louder.

Kaoru woke with a start. She listened closely and there it was.

Somebody was knocking on the door.

She secured her yukata and opened the door, enough to see how it was.

“Himura-san.” Looked like a police officer.

She opened the door. “I’m Himura.”

He bowed and gave get a brown package. She thanked him and she left.

She closed the door and opened the package. “Kirei”

And it was. This kimono he had sent was very extravagant. She looked down; it seemed he’d sent all the accessories that went with it as well. She looked at the accessories and found a note.

Kaoru-san,

I’ve Enclosed the ticket along with the directions to the whereabouts of your husband. Please accept this late wedding gift. I hope you find it to your liking. If you require anything else please let me know my address is at the bottom of the paper.

-Yamagata

Kaoru looked at the note and smiled. He was a very nice man. Maybe when they got home Kenshin would invite him for dinner sometime.

She took a quick bath and started getting ready. Yamagata had said that it was a passenger ship, so that would mean a lot of rich people. She finished getting ready, grabbed her bag and left. Time to find that ship.

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

Kenshin stretched he was stiff. He’d stayed in the same position the whole time through the trip.

He got off the ship with two things in mind. One, get directions to where he was at exactly and how long it would take to find the temple and two, find and inn to stay in for the night. The real search would commence tomorrow.

Kenshin stepped of into the busy street. Hmm, it was very busy down this street he thought. He took a glance back at where his ship was and then to where all theses people where coming from. Their ship was smaller but looked more luxurious.

He stopped at a small restaurant; there he had his meal and got his directions. All through out dinner they had kept starring at him, rather his swords but hadn’t said a word to him.

They had told him it would take him about two hours to get there. He could leave now but the odds of Gohei coming out only at night were high. So he’d stay here for tonight, wake up early tomorrow and make his way there sometime after sun up but just before breakfast time.

With those last thoughts Kenshin closed his eyes. The figure sitting in the middle of the room was washed in the soft glow of the candle.

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

Kaoru finally made it, she was glad. She looked around the busy street. Hmm, where to go from here she thought.

It was very early in the morning, she’d eaten on the ship so what she needed to do was find out where this temple was. She saw a perfume shop and stopped to ask for directions.

She came out of the shop with her directions and a nice bottle of perfume. It smelled like her soap. Like Jasmine.

She stepped of the curve and hailed a carriage.

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

He was weary of this place already. He’d searched the perimeter today. He was very careful deciding to remain undetected. Anyone of the people who lived here might tip him off. He paid closer attention the bad neighbor hoods. Memorizing their routes. Anything that could serve him to get away.

He stepped into a bar and sat in the corner where the light didn’t quit reach. This was a favorite hangout for most of the criminals. If anyone knew anything of him he’d be able to pick them out from right here.

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

Kaoru’s had arrived hours ago. She’d been sitting in the same spot in front of the temple waiting for Kenshin to show up. She slowly got up her back hurt. She hadn’t bothered to have lunch, thinking any moment now. He’d come by and then they could go off together.

The sun had just set. She’d come back tomorrow. She raised her arms over her had and heard her spine crack. “Man I need to rest.” But first she’d eat. She was starving and the sound of authentic Chinese food made her mouth water.

She walked at a slow pace. The afternoon was just turning into night. The colors in the sky as the sunset had to be some of the most beautiful she had ever seen. How the reddish hue seemed to bleed into the blue. The end result was amazing; she took a deep breath and let her gaze fall back down to the scenery in front of her. “I’m going to need a place to stay”, she thought out loud.

She kept on walking till she got to a very nice area. She saw a pleasant looking restaurant and decided to go in. Her stomach started grumbling as she got closer. She blushed and bit her lip. Thank goodness no one was around.

Kaoru was seated at a small table where she was served a generous portion. She felt like wolfing it down. But in this kimono she looked very much like a lady of society. Deciding to play along she took small bites of her meal. It was the best thing to do in the end because that way she got to savor her meal.

She got up slowly feeling extremely full. She paid her bill and made her way out of the restaurant. As she was leaving she dropped her purse.

A tall gentleman handed her purse back.

“Thank you” she said as she bowed to him. And made her way down the street to where she saw the inn.

The man continued to gaze at the woman till she went into the local Inn.

He then stepped into the restaurant and asked if Tung Lam Ka had been seated. The waitress nodded in affirmation and led him to the table.

“Ah Yukishiro, Thanks for meeting me here.” The plump man greeted his soon to be partner.

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

Kenshin threw his head back as he drank the last of his sake, left some money on the table and left for he night. He felt he’d wasted his day. He was going to stay at some Inn in this part of town.

Tomorrow he’d get an early start.

Kenshin opened his eyes just minutes before the sun rose. He took a cold bath and headed out for the Temple.

He hid in a tree and waited for people to start walking by.

Sometime passed and he was starting to get bored when he saw someone familiar passed by. He narrowed his eyes. He’d seen white hair and the glint of that earring. He wasn’t supposed to be anywhere near here. He felt his anger rise to his throat. He had a bitter taste in the back of his throat.

He closed his eyes and took calming breaths. He thought he’d put all this behind him. He couldn’t let this new predicament deter him away from his primary goal. Gohei, that’s whom he was here for.

He opened his eyes and kept a watchful eye.

He didn’t have to wait long he saw Gohei pass by.

He appeared to be in disguise.

It didn’t matter though everyone’s ki was different and this man’s ki he knew to be that of Hiruma Gohei.

He followed him from a distant inspecting the rest of the area. He couldn’t take the chance of being followed.

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

Kaoru was slow to wake up. She reached over to her right and felt around for Kenshin. Where was he?

She opened her eyes and looked around the room.

Then she remembered.

She hurried and got dressed in the kimono Kenshin had bought her in Yokohama when she had been recovering. It was a deep blue that matched her favorite ribbon. She added a little balm to her lips and headed back out to the temple.

When she stepped out side she noticed it was kind of empty. Oh no. It was lunchtime. It looks like she had overslept.

She found her spot from yesterday and took a seat. More waiting.

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

The battoussai had followed his prey, learning his routine. Waiting till night fell to see if he went out. He was thankful he’d had half a mind to bring a michiyuki with him. Nights here were cold. And it was one less thing to worry about. The battoussai waited till midnight before departing.

He went back to his room at the Inn and rested. He drifted off into a half wake state. Tomorrow, he’d finish this once and for all.

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

Kaoru was really pissed. She’d come back today later than yesterday. The only reason she’d had something to eat today was because of that vendor she’d encountered just a bit before leaving the temple.

When she saw Kenshin again he was really going to get it. She was going to hit him. Yes. And make him sleep in the shed. She’d think of something.

Here she was in a different country and instead of enjoying herself; she was out looking for him. “Mou, Kenshin baka. If you’d brought me with you we’d be together right now.” She slammed her kimono to the floor and yanked the ribbon out of her hair. She stomped on the ribbon and stared at it with disdain.

But then she picked it up and kissed it. “I’m sorry,” She said to her favorite ribbon. She dressed in her yukata. Tomorrow she had to buy a new kimono. Maybe she’d buy more than one, spend Kenshin’s money. “That’ll teach you, ne.” She said out loud. “Oyasumi Anata.”

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

Kaoru woke up early in the morning she dressed in plain yellow kimono she had brought as a last alternative. She went out and bought herself some supplies. A pretty bag. And two nice new kimonos. One was a deep crimson color with a deep blue lining. There were large indigo flowers and smaller white flowers that seemed to be attached to little vines, but rather than green they were a golden brown. The Obi was a cobalt color but it was overshadowed by the large thick outlines of a flower. They were white and the same golden brown as her Kimono. This was by far her favorite. It wasn’t as fancy as the one Yamagata had given her but it was just as beautiful. Kenshin would love it when he saw it. The second one was a solid color forest green; the Obi she had picked out for it was a deep purple. The purple had seemed familiar for some reason. Though it was a contrast in color it made a dramatic impression. She went back to the Inn, took a bath and wore the green outfit.

She went back to her spot in front of the temple and waited.

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

Night finally fell and the battoussai was ready. He lurked within the darkness. He was by the road Gohei traveled through to get home.

It was a deserted road.

He was late.

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

What a shitty day.

Like working for the Yakusa wasn’t bad enough. This last man he had robbed hadn’t had much money. He’d killed him for nothing.

Gohei continued down the road like he often did but all those trees on the side of the road always frightened him.

“Hiruma Gohei.” The tone was icy.

Gohei froze.

This was not happening.

It was too soon. It had only been a month or so. There was no way he could have found him. He was imagining things like he frequently did when in shadowy places.

Gohei closed his eyes.

When he opened them, he found himself starring into amber eyes.

What does a man do when confronted by death?

Make a deal, bribe it, ....

Gohei ran.

He ran into the woods like the bats of hell were on his tail. She must have died. He must have found her. How?

How had he found him?

The battoussai watched him run away in to the woods.

Good.

Gohei was running when he felt his legs knocked out from under him.

“Gohei I got your note.” The voice was full of revulsion.

That’s right, the note that had fallen out of his Gi.

“Didn’t you challenge me?” He stepped forward.

Gohei stepped back.

“Don’t.” It was a command.

Self preservation though makes you do what ever it takes to survive.

Gohei threw a dagger at the battoussai and ran.

The blade whizzed by his left ear.

The battoussai blurred and re-appeared in front of Gohei. With one lighting fast stroke of his sword he slashed Gohei from the bottom of his right hip to the top of his shoulder.

Gohei stepped back. The adrenaline he felt, numbed the pain. He pulled out a gun and fired at the battoussai.

The battoussai allowed the bullet to go by.

Then cut of the hand.

“Is that what you were going to do to her? Make it so she couldn’t use her hands anymore.”

Gohei shook his head.

“You Lie.” He snarled at Gohei, stepped back and cut him open.

The battoussai looked at the body in disgust. He turned and walked away. He did nothing more than Gohei would have done to him given the opportunity.

He made his way to the Inn, took the michiyuki off and burned it.

It was the only thing that had gotten splattered with blood. He went to the room and took his sitting position on the floor. He laid his katana against his shoulder and took his rest. It was finally done.

Tomorrow he’d buy something for Kaoru. She was going to be pissed when he got home.

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

Kaoru rested in the tub. The hot water was calming. Today was the fourth day. If she didn’t find him today she was going to go home. “Oh, but when you get home.” She made a silent promise.

Today she was going to take her time.

She dressed slowly in the crimson kimono. Fixed her hair and added the color balm to her lips. It was something she’d bought on the boat and the ruby color made her mouth look full, plus it went with what she was wearing.

She went out and had breakfast.

It was breezy today she noted as she made her way to the temple. The wind played with her hair and the hem of her kimono.

“Koishii?”

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

Kenshin had gotten up late today. He’d allowed himself the extra rest so he’d look rested when he got home. He took his bath and got dressed. He checked himself out of the Inn and headed back to the port. There was supposed to be another cargo ship today. That would take him home.

For the first time since he’d gotten here he allowed himself a chance to look around. It was autumn here. The breeze picked up and brought him the smell of flowers. He stopped near the temple, admiring the layout. Funny how this seemed to be the border to two different worlds. If you continued west you’d end in the bad part of town, which is where he had just come from.

If you went east you’d end up in the nice part of town. The further you went the nicer it got till you got to the big hill with the large house. That’s pretty much were it ended.

The wind picked up again and this time he smelled jasmine.

He looked around and saw a woman. She was making her way to the temple. The wind had picked up and it played with a strand of her hair. She took the strand and placed it behind her ear. The habit she possessed was a familiar one.

When the wind blew this time, his eyes were drawn to the hem of her kimono. She was a lot closer now and he could make out all of the details.

“Koishii?” He asked her as she passed him by.

The women turned. She was very beautiful.

She smiled at him.

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

Kaoru heard someone call her. She turned and there he was finally. But as angry as she’d been the moment she saw him she’d smiled at him.

She was at his side in less than a heartbeat. All she could do was kiss him. She pressed herself against him and kissed him till she knew she’d faint if she didn’t get any air.

“Kenshin, ” she breathed before she laid her face against his chest.

He was surprised to say the least.

She looked up at him and smiled before she slapped him.

He blinked. She’d managed to surprise him. He’d let his guard down during there kissing.

“Kenshin Baka! Do you have any idea how long I’ve been here looking for you?” She had drawn away from him. She had her hands on her hips and was waiting for him to answer.

“Four days Kenshin. If I didn’t find you today I was going to go home.” Her eyes held his in determination.

“You followed me.” How was he supposed to react?

He became angry.

Gohei could have found her before she found him. Without her memories she wouldn’t have know he was a lunatic.

“You followed me,” This time he hissed. Anger seeped into his tone.

“Don’t you take that tone with me, Kenshin Himura. This is not my fault.” She steeped closer again. Her eyes had narrowed.

“I suppose you’ll say it’s mine.” He was not amused.

She always did stupid shit like this. She had followed him all the way to Kyoto of course she’d follow him here.

“Anything could have happened to you and there would have been no way of me knowing?” His tone hard.

Her eyes watered. “Exactly Kenshin. Do you see how it would feel? You leave me behind and there is no way for me to know if you’re all right.” She started crying then. She hugged him and sobbed against his Gi.

Kenshin sighed. “It’s ok koishii. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you worry.” He held patted her back.

He walked them to a bench in the gardens around the temple and held her on his lap while she cried into his neck.

“I’m sorry I followed you but I felt I had to. I had this horrible dream and it was just too realistic. I just couldn’t drop it. It scarred me Kenshin. He scarred me. He was trying to take you away.” She looked at him with her year stained face.

He kissed the corner of her eyes. “Who koishii? Who was trying to take me away?”

“The man from my dream. He was tall man, his hair was sleeked back and he was dressed all in black. He came to kill you I think. In my dream he was fighting with you and no matter how much I begged for someone to stop you, no one did. He said something about his Hirazuki having no blind spots. You two were fighting and I remember when he finally made you mad, you said.” She stopped trying to remember.

“You said next strike your head will fall.” She was sniffling again. The memory of what happened made her weep.

She remembers that bastard.

“I felt so useless, I was afraid of losing you. My exact thought was It’s exactly the same as the time with Jin-e.”

“Do you know what that means? Who’s Jin-e?” She had stopped crying.

“Jin-e was an hitokiri, like I once was. He took you from me in hopes of stirring my anger. He wished to fight the old hitokiri battoussai. The part of me that lays dormant unless their is trouble.” He wasn’t looking at her anymore. His eyes held a far away look. Lost in memory.

“So that man was real, what about the other one. The one dressed all in black?”

He didn’t want to answer that. He didn’t want to think about him.

“Kenshin?”

“Koishii, I don’t.” She stopped him with a kiss.

"He’s just someone from my past. He belonged to the Shinsegumi. We don’t talk. I stay away from him and he stays away from me.” He stood up and set her down back on the ground. It was the end to the conversation.

He walked her to the little fountain and cleaned her face. Trying desperately to erase her tears.

They walked back wordlessly. Each lost in thought. Finally they made it back to her room at the Inn.

He looked at her. He had missed her a great deal, specially at night. He really needed her right now. To love her, to get lost in her. He reached out  and brought her closer to him.  He kissed her. His actions were measured. He wanted to take this slow, make it last. 

His touch was electrifying. 

He undressed her with sluggish movements. When he finished undressing her he gave her a heated gaze. He kissed her slowly, making his touch linger on her skin.

She felt she was ablaze. She stood as he kissed down her neck to her collar. He stopped when he reached her breasts. She felt his breath on her for a second before he began suckling her right nipple. She felt the sensation go straight to her lower half. The throbbing in between her legs increased. She felt her legs start to give out. 

Kenshin paused long enough to lay her down and continued his administrations. He licked down her breast to her abdomen. Kissed her belly button and continued his way down. He paused to inhale her scent. The scent of her arousal rising through his brain like the sweetest addiction.  His need to please her strengthened his resolve, fortifying the restraints on the demon within.  He eased her legs apart slowly. He licked his way down her inner thigh till he was in front of her exposed center. He put her legs over his shoulders and held her in place with an unshakable grip.  His head dipped lower till he nuzzled her mound.  His tongue dipped into her core. He heard her whimper when he lapped and sucked the pulsating walls around pressure point.

Kaoru couldn't take it. She felt like she was going to break in half. She clenched fistfuls of the blanket. She made a wild sound when he bit her pleasure node. He sucked on it vigorously. Her whole body trembled. Her breathing was now coming into shallow pants.

He could tell she was almost there from the way she was breathing. He swirled his tongue around her again teasingly before he thrusted into her opening. She made sounds of pleasure as his tongue invaded her. Her hips thrusted into his mouth at the pace of his tongue. His teeth scraped along her again causing her hips to buckle wildly. He was able to give her one last bit before her orgasm overtook her. Her nectar was the sweetest thing. He held his mouth over her, drinking her till her trembling stopped. He licked her clean making sure not to waste a single drop.

Kaoru was unable to move. Her mouth was dry and her voice was hoarse. When her eyes were finally able to open again she saw Kenshin had finally taken his clothes off. He rested on his side looking down at her. His hand rested over her tummy. He smiled down at her. She brought his head down to her for a kiss. She could taste herself in his mouth. She found herself getting excited allover again. "Anata" she sighed. He smile widen and he positioned himself over her. He gave her one last kiss before he entered her. He slipped in and paused a moment. He felt himself battling for control. The desire she stirred him was always his undoing. He felt her legs come around him. She was ready, waiting for nothing more he began a slow motion. His thrusts were calculated, building the ambers of her passion into a blazing fire.

Kaoru felt the world drop away. There was only her and her beloved husband. She thrusted her hips while his came down in a circular motion. Her last thought were 'How she loved this man.'

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

Two months later all was as it should be.

Kaoru had just finished teaching her class. She was exhausted, she’d skipped breakfast and now she was starving. She watched the last of the children leave and closed the door. She had to go get ready for lunch.

She arrived at the tabled and sat down. Tae was here today so she had cooked. Good, she thought. Their meal was served and when Yahiko and Sanosuke saw her starting to wolf down faster than usual they held on to their plates and the race was on.

Kaoru felt sleepy after such as hardy meal. She got up to close the gate when she felt dizzy. Sanosuke, who was still fighting with Yahiko over who got the last desert, noticed Kaoru starting to go limp. And rushed to her side before she fell. “Yahiko! Go get the doctor.”

“What’s the yelling about?” Doctor Genzai was starting to walk in though the hall when he’d heard Sano call for him.

“I brought the girls over.” He walked into the room and noticed Kaoru lid limp in Sanosuke’s arms. The doctor’s smile faded.

He touched the side off her neck and felt for a pulse. It was very weak. “Get her to her room.” “

“Yahiko, please take the girls outside for a while.”

The doctor and Sano went to her room while Yahiko stepped outside to play with the girls.

“Leave her here Sano, if I need anything I will call you.” The doctor started to loosen her obi, trying to get her more comfortable.

Sano nodded and stepped out side.

The doctor took his time and eventually stepped outside.

“What is it doc?” Sano asked.

The doctor had stepped out and was taking a seat on the porch. He waved them off. “It was nothing just a dizzy spell. Nothing to worry about.”

Sano and Yahiko glanced at each other. The doctor seemed to be hiding something.

Yahiko was leaving to go visit Tsubame, when he dropped the bracelet he’d bought her. He bent to pick it up when he noticed a cigarette stub. He looked both ways, up and down the street. Nothing.

Just incase, though. He went back and told Sano what he found.

“You think he was here, snooping around?” Sano held the cigarette stub.

“I don’t know if it was him. I didn’t see anyone around. But we both know when he wants to leave a message, he makes it obvious.” Yahiko seem apprehensive.

“Hmm, Kenshin’s due back today. Do you think we should tell him?”

It was a good question, one they didn’t have an answer to.

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

Kenshin was finally home. He’d come back from Kyoto to find his wife waiting for him at the door.

“Koishii is everything all right?” His tensed.

She gave him a bright smile and took his package. She placed it behind the door and took his hand.

She walked him to the table and served him a cup of sake.

“Koishii?”

“Kenshin, I have something to tell you. I don’t know if you’ll be happy about it but I hope that you will.” She said as she sat in front of him. She’d made everyone else wait in the kitchen while she delivered the news.

Was her memory back? Was that good or bad? Hmm.

He drank the sake and asked her, “What is it Koishii?”

She served him again and waited till he drank the second cup.

“Youregonnabeatosan.” She said it in a rush.

Had he heard right.

“Otou-san.” She said the word for him to hear.

He had heard right.

He closed his eyes, everything was perfect now.

When he opened them they were a deep purple almost blue but not quite.

She noticed the change.

He gave her a huge smile and hugged her tightly.

“Koishii, I’m so happy. Are you sure?” He was thrilled.

She nodded her affirmation.

He kissed her and everyone in the kitchen came in to congratulate him.

He was going to love that baby to pieces.

Kaoru had fallen asleep as soon as she lay down.

He took the chance to go to his old room. He sat there for a while contemplating his current situation. Who would have though this is how things would end up? He smiled taking off his daisho. He looked at his Katana for a while before he placed it in the box that Yamagata had kept in for so long. Seems Yamagata was a sentimentalist. He’d had a box specially made for the Katana and wakazashi. It was long sleek box, it’s coloring was of a deep cheery. It had his name engraved on it. Himura.

He had come here as the rurouni.

The rurouni had been lost many times.

Somehow though he had always found his way.

All except this last time, when he really thought he’d

Lost her. He had let the Hitokiri have his revenge and

Now that was over too. What was left?

He was now somewhere in the middle. No longer the rurouni and no longer the battoussai.

Just a man.

A family man.

He was ready to face this new stage of his life, fatherhood.

He smiled and left his old room with his sakabatou.

The end.

Ok, it‘s finally done. Yay, I hope you guys enjoyed the story. I know some of you are wondering about our Gatotsu using smoking man and Yukishiro but I need to leave an opening should I ever decide on a sequel. Besides you never know who’s followed you home till it‘s too late, ne.

Please Review.  I hope to see you all in the next FF.