Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction ❯ Forever Mine ❯ Forever Mine Pt. 1 ( Chapter 18 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: Angie-san 
Anime/Manga: Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance / Psychological / Drama | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 12.03.2006 | Pages: 5 | Words: 8.5K | Visits: 641 | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance / Psychological / Drama | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 12.03.2006 | Pages: 5 | Words: 8.5K | Visits: 641 | Status: Work In Progress
Disclaimer - I don't own RK
A/N - Hi all. Sorry, once again, for the lateness of this chapter. I really put a lot of effort into making it as good as I could so hopefully you will find it was worth the wait.
Also, for those of you who have read MARS, I recently posted a small one shot called Always and Forever in this extremely small fandom. Hope you like it.
Kaoru swallowed nervously and knocked gently on the door to Enishi's room. Maybe, if she was lucky, he had changed his mind and he'd let her go back to her own room. Her lip curled slightly in disbelief, that wasn't likely to happen. He'd never backed down on anything he'd said before, why start now. She jumped when the door all of a sudden swung open, the empty space suddenly filled with Enishi's shirtless frame, the sardonic smirk on his face setting alight a small flame of anger in her belly. For several seconds all he did was stare at her, then he gave her the once over and smiled. Without a word, he turned and made his way back into the room.
Glaring at his back, Kaoru hesitated as a gaggle of butterflies danced to life in her belly. Could she really do this? God, this really was too much!
"Are you coming in or do I have to carry you in?"
Kaoru scowled and gave Enishi an icy glare. Stepping into his most private domain, she swung the door closed behind her, "Why do you want me in here?"
Enishi just smiled and settled on the bed. "Because this is where you belong." Laying back, he situated himself against the headboard; staring dead at her he patted the bed beside him.
Kaoru's scowl deepened at his confidence. Ignoring his invitation, she remained right where she was as the small flame of anger grew, "What do you want with me, Enishi? Why won't you let me go?"
Enishi shrugged, "You are mine, Kaoru, and nothing is going to change that. I lost Tomoe, I don't intend on losing you too." With that, he yanked back the covers on her side of the bed, "Come, it's been a long day. Let's go to bed."
The scowl fell from Kaoru's lips and she swallowed nervously, even though his words were spoken without malice she could see the demand swimming in his eyes. He wasn't going to play games. Ignoring the shiver of disgust that whispered through her body she gave in and slowly limped over to the bed. She could do this, it was only sleeping after all... right?
Scowling at herself, she turned her back on him and settled down on the bed... yes, it was only sleep. All of a sudden a hand locked onto her shoulder and yanked her backwards. Letting out a scream, she winced as her injured leg crashed against the side of the bed. All pain was soon forgotten though as seconds later she found herself pinned, Enishi's grip holding her firmly against the bed. Biting her lip to keep from screaming at his touch, she stared into the intense turquoise gaze fixed on her.
"Are you afraid I will kill you again?"
Startled by the direct question, all she could do was stare at him. Her heart twisted slightly at the scarred look lingering deep in his eyes. Closing her eyes against the truth in his, she simply nodded. She nearly sighed when he let her go, sitting up slowly she peeked over shoulder.
Enishi stood and pulled back his own covers, "I promise you, I won't kill you." Settling down on his back, he avoided looking at her and instead stared at the ceiling. "I don't think I could, even if I wanted to."
Kaoru's eyes widened at his admission. Slowly he slid his eyes to her and pinned her with an intense stare filled with something she'd never seen in them before. "I'm not so cold-hearted that I can kill someone I love."
With that he rolled away from her and flicked off the light. "Go to sleep."
Stunned, Kaoru could only stare dumbfounded at his silhouette. That was the first time in the two years since they'd started seeing each other he'd said he loved her. The very first time. Wilting under the weight of his confession, she tried to ignore the throb pulsing dully in her chest and hung her head. Why did he have to say that now? Hadn't she asked him before for this honestly, and yet he'd always evaded the question. Instead making her believe she was nothing but a toy he selfishly wanted to keep.
Steeling herself against the numbness trying to settle into her bones, she cast one last glance at him and turned her back; working her way under the covers. It was too little, too late. It hurt, but that didn't matter anymore, things had changed so much in the last few days. His confession would change nothing. She was still going to leave, whether he liked it or not. Any love she had held for him had died when he'd tried to kill those she loved most. There was nothing left but a weary sadness that she knew, with time, would slowly fade away.
Settling into the warmth surrounding her, she sighed softly and closed her eyes. His love was too little, too late.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kenshin glanced to the clock again as he made another circuit of the family dojo, only another fifteen minutes to go. Rubbing his forehead he sighed, for the last several hours it seemed each minute took an hour to pass and the closer he got to leaving the longer it seemed to take. He hadn't had any rest since he'd awoken in Sano's apartment, of course it didn't help that every time he'd settled down to sleep he'd drift off only to be awoken by images of the past that came to haunt him. Mainly images of Kaoru pinned the wall of the dojo although a couple of times it had been of Tomoe instead or even images of the final battle between he and Enishi. It seemed the past was not going to simply let him go.
With a sigh, he rolled his shoulders in an effort to loosen the knots of stress that had settled in his neck. Needless to say, it had been an extremely long afternoon. At least one thing was going his way. Enishi had no idea where he was and if he was lucky his old enemy would think him unable to come after Kaoru. Oh, Enishi knew he was still alive, but there was no way the yakuza boss could find him. None.
Casting a glance to the far wall and the well hidden doorway, he let a small smile play across his lips. But then again, Enishi didn't know the history of this building either which had helped immensely when it had come time for him to disappear. He'd never thought in a million years that his sentimentality would pay off in the end. Behind that wall stood the only room that remained of the dojo that had once been the home of the Kamiya Kasshin Ryu. One day when he had Kaoru with him again, he would bring her here to see the last remnant of her age old home.
Glancing to the wall clock again he shook himself, 3:45 am. Finally, the time had come.
Heading to the far corner, he grabbed the shoulder sling carrying his sakabatou and swung it over his head, settling it crosswise over his back. Adjusting the unfamiliar weight more comfortably he tossed the ankle length black trench coat over his shoulders to hide the weapon, and donned the black gloves tucked into the coat pockets. Checking to make sure the blueprints were still in the inside pocket, he let a small smile play across his lips. If these were right, it shouldn't be all that hard to get into Enishi's building. Somehow Aoshi had gotten the code to the back door... and the elevator; although more than likely the code for the elevator had changed since Kaoru's escape.
Inwardly shrugging, he gave himself the once over to see if he had everything else he needed. It was then he noticed the lack of a blade. Glancing at the katana still resting against the wall, he began to reach for it...
Don’t kill him... for me and Tomoe, don't kill him this time.
His hand stopped and he just stared at the blade that had taken Enishi's life all those years ago. Closing his eyes, he fisted his hand tight and scowled. Could he do this without killing Enishi? Did he want to? Sliding his eyes back open, he just stared at the sheathed blade. What would be the consequences of letting Enishi live? Would he let them live peacefully, or would he forever be a thorn in their side?
Scowling at the unanswerable questions, he tightened his fist even more and turned his back on the blade; heading for the door. For her, he would let Enishi live. Hopefully they wouldn't regret it.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kaoru slowly rose up out of the darkness as a quiet trill sounded in her ears, the ring sounding foreign to her sleep heavy mind. Confused, she yawned and rubbed her eyes, opening them to the darkened room she searched the darkness for some sign of what the sound was. Seconds later the strange trill whispered into the quiet of the room again and it finally dawned on her what she was hearing... a cell phone.
Slowly sitting up, she was startled fully awake when an arm snaked out from beside her and grabbed the blinking device on the other night table; flipping it open.
"What?!" Enishi growled, in a sleep heavy voice. Watching, as he slowly sat up and flipped on the light, she was all of a sudden filled with an almost sickening dread. Her stomach twisted into a knot as he glanced over his shoulder, the icy smile tickling his lips making her weak.
"Let him through. Herd him towards the dojo." With that, he flipped the phone closed and chuckled. Shoving off the bed, Enishi grabbed his discarded pants and slipped them on "It seems he's either a fast healer or incredibly stupid." Grabbing his shirt, he tossed it over his shoulders and pinned her with an intense look, "He must want you badly, if he has come to face me still wounded from our earlier confrontation."
Suddenly sick, Kaoru dragged her eyes away from his and shot out of the bed; nearly falling to her knees as the wound in her leg protested the sudden weight. Clenching her teeth, she fought back the tears stinging her eyes and limped to Enishi, "Leave him alone Enishi. Please, just leave him alone."
Enishi shook his head and smiled, "I would have, had he not come here." Walking the few steps separating them, he brushed away the single tear that had slipped from the corner of her eye. "He should have left well enough alone. You are mine and that will never change... and since he refuses to accept that, I will wipe him from the face of the earth." With that said, Enishi leaned in and brushed his lips gently against hers, then headed for the door.
Kaoru just stared at him as he flung the door open and headed out into the darkened livingroom. No... she couldn't let this happen. Why?! Why did he have to come already?! She hadn't had enough time. Not enough time at all.
Stumbling to the door, she caught herself on the frame, "Enishi... don't..."
Steps away from the elevator, Enishi stopped and glanced over his shoulder, "I'm sorry, princess, he asked for it." With that, he gave his attention to Hei Shin. "This is your final chance. Keep her here. If you fail I will give you to Shishio to play with, got it?"
Hei Shin slid a glance to Kaoru, then nodded, "I'll keep her here."
Satisfied, Enishi made his way to the elevator and punched in the code, "I'll be back soon, princess. Wait for me."
With that he stepped into the elevator, leaving Kaoru staring at the spot he'd just occupied; the quiet thump of the doors closing sounding like a coffin lid dropping closed. Suddenly sick, she let her eyes drift to Hei Shin and she scowled at the smile painted across his weasely face. "Your lover is a dead man", he said.
"Shut up!"
Hei Shin's smile grew even more and she had to fight to keep herself from slapping him across the face. Turning her back on him, she slowly hobbled her way back to Enishi's room. Slamming the door behind her, she sank to the floor. Why? Why was he here already? Why did he come still wounded? Was this fate's way of saying she really did belong to Enishi? Sickened by the thought, she dropped her head to her knees. There was no way Kenshin would survive this time. Why didn't he just stay away? She could have gotten away; she knew she could have if she'd been given enough time.
Collapsing even more into herself, she finally succumbed to the tears burning her eyes. And she couldn't even get out to warn him that Enishi had his memories back. Fate was truly against them. Sniffling, she fought off the deadening numbness trying to sink into her very bones. If only she could somehow warn him. Somehow tell him that she could do this on her own.
All of a sudden the room plunged into darkness as a loud crash echoed through the room followed by a pain-filled hiss. Startled, Kaoru's head shot up and she scanned the pitch black room. "Raijin?"
A pathetic meow sounded a few feet in front of her. Chuckling, she levered herself off the floor and slowly made her way to the fallen night table on Enishi's side of the bed, "Good thing Enishi isn't here, Raijin. He'd be very upset with you." All of a sudden, a soft coat rubbed itself against her ankle. Grinning, she bent over and scratched his back, "Its ok. I'm not mad at you, but I need light."
Straightening, Kaoru slowly felt her way to overturned night table, suddenly her toe bumped into something hard and she slowly lifted table back into place. A dull thud made her jump as the front drawer slid free and fell back to the floor. Cursing, she lifted the table lamp back into place and searched the wall for the outlet. Plugging it back in, she hissed as light suddenly flooded the room.
"Raijin, I swear you're either trying to kill me or blind me." she grumbled, closing her eyes against the brightness. Feeling her way to the bed and settled down.
The bed suddenly sagged next to her and a big furry head butted itself against her arm. Smiling she rubbed her eyes and slid them open, "Its ok. I still love you, just don't do that again." Raijin just looked at her with his big golden eyes. Unnerved by their likeness to Kenshin's, she averted her eyes and gasped softly as they fell on the contents of the drawer scattered across the plush carpet.
Stunned, all she could do was stare at the object laying innocently inches away from her feet. It couldn't be... was lady luck finally smiling on her?
Slowly reaching down, she gently lifted the gun as a sudden surge of hope flooded through her veins. Holding it gingerly, she just stared at the means to her escape. And yet... turning the gun from side to side she realized that she had no idea how to work it. She had never, in her entire life, held a gun before. Ever.
But...
She had no choice, with this she could get out of the apartment. Once she was out, she could find Kenshin and that's all that mattered right now. She had to find Kenshin. No matter what, she had to stop this fight. Steeling herself, she tucked the gun into her yukata and made her way to the door. All she needed to do was get dressed, then she would be ready.
She could do this... she knew she could.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kenshin slipped silently down the halls on the second floor of Enishi's building. He was still a little leery at the ease with which he'd been able to make his way this far. Something didn't quite feel right. So far he'd encounter only two of Enishi's men, and both of those had been easy to overcome... too easy. He hadn't needed to exert himself at all. Another thing he found strange was, if he wasn't mistaken, he was being herded somewhere. Several times he'd hear the click of a lock either being thrown or opened just before he reached a chosen door. Must be Enishi knew he was here already and was leading him to a chosen destination.
Smirking, he stopped and leaned against the wall. Let Enishi guide him to his ultimate defeat, the bastard had it coming. Checking both ways, he dug out the blueprints and checked his position. He was almost there. Glancing to his right he nearly smiled when he heard the unmistakable sound of a lock being opened. If he was right, it was to the door that would lead to the staircase that would take him to the third floor; the home of Enishi's office which had access to the apartment above and of Enishi's dojo. Perfect. He would be that much closer to Kaoru when he defeated Enishi.
Tucking the blueprints back into his pocket, he headed for the door and the end of the nightmare Enishi had so willfully shoved him into. Soon it would be all over. Kaoru would be by his side again, and this time no one would be able to take her from him.
Slipping silently down the hallway, he opened the door and scanned the staircase. Just as before there was no sign of anyone and yet he knew they were there. Heightening his senses he stepped into the stairwell and took the steps two at a time up to the next level. Slowly opening the door that led to the third floor, he scanned the empty hallway. No one. Not a soul. Must be Enishi wanted him all to himself. Smirking, Kenshin stepped into the barren hallway and silently made his way to the shoji on the left. Didn't matter he'd cut through them all to get her back... and he just might have to do that after he defeated Enishi. He seriously doubted Enishi's men would just let him and Kaoru leave. That’s why he'd timed it so there would be very little time between him getting Kaoru back and Aoshi's raid. Hopefully it would be enough. It would defeat his purpose if they all went to jail.
Shoving the thought from his mind, he cleared his thoughts and stepped up to the closed shoji that led to the dojo. This was it. He could feel his enemy’s ki just on the other side of the door. He would try to take Kaoru back without a fight, but he knew Enishi wasn't likely to just let he go. Deep down, he knew there was no way his old enemy would give up that easily. Not if he was anything like he had been so long ago. Steeling himself, he removed the cloak and dropped it on the floor; unslinging his sakabatou he tucked it into his belt and stepped up to open the door. It was time to finish this.
Stifling a sigh, he took a deep breath and settled himself. Soundlessly sliding the shoji back, he stepped into the wide open dojo. He stopped as his eyes found the source of all his recent headaches standing sedately on the far side of the room. Sliding the shoji closed behind him, he took another step in, "Enishi."
Enishi just smiled. "Welcome Battousai. It's been quite a long time since we've faced off like this."
With that one sentence, Kenshin realized his worst fears had come true. Enishi had remembered his past life. Ignoring the sudden whisper of dread swimming though his veins, he simply stared at his reborn brother-in-law, "I didn't come here to fight you. All I want is Kaoru."
A light chuckle whispered into the room, it made the killer in him itch to wipe the smile off of Enishi's face. Fighting to remain calm, he just glared at the man who stood between him and the one he'd waited so long to have.
"I'm sorry, Battousai. That's impossible, she's mine."
Kenshin stifled the growl that tried to escape, "No, she's not. She doesn't want to be here, Enishi. Let her go."
Enishi smirked, "No." Reaching behind him he lifted a long blade Kenshin recognized from its resting place on the wall. "The only way she will be able to leave this place is if I'm dead. I told you, she is mine and that will never change." Testing the weight of the watou, Enishi rolled his shoulders. "Shall we finish what we started all those years ago?"
Kenshin stared at his age old enemy, then smirked, "I'm sure you remember... I already finished that." He felt no gratification at the scowl that slid across Enishi's face, loosening his sakabatou in its sheath, he sighed. It was quite obvious Enishi wasn't going to back down. Taking one more step into the dojo, he asked "What do you want with Kaoru?"
Enishi smiled, "That's really none of your concern, now is it." He chuckled at the black look that settled on his enemy's face, and then he noticed the slight tinge of fear deep in the stormy violet gaze fixed on him. Surprised, his smile widened slightly and he asked, "Do you think I want to kill her again?" The flicker of unease that passed through his enemy's eyes was all the answer he needed. Tilting his head to the side, he settled his blade across his shoulders and stepped away from the wall. "Why would I do that? She's mine this time."
Kenshin scowled, "She doesn't want to be with you, Enishi. Let her go."
Enishi cocked an eyebrow as a small smile tickled the corners of his lips. "If she didn't want to be with me, then why did I leave her in my bed to come down here?"
Kenshin's fist tightened on the hilt of his sakabatou, his blood suddenly boiling. "What did you do to her, Enishi?!"
"Once again, that's really none of your business." Enishi lifted his watou from his shoulders and settled into a comfortable stance, waiting for the strike he could see swimming in the now amber gaze fixed on him. It seemed his enemy was still a hitokiri at heart. Confused by this, he asked, “How is it you are still the same?"
"That's really none of your business." Kenshin growled, using his enemy's own words against him. "Give Kaoru to me now!"
Unfazed, Enishi just stared at him. "If you want her that badly, you'll have to go through me first."
That was the last straw. Unable to keep the killer buried, Kenshin felt a cold calm settle over him for the first time in over a hundred years. Regretting the lack of a katana, he rolled his shoulders and drew his sakabatou. Didn't matter. He'd get her back, of that there was no question.
"So, you've finally awakened. The killer, who took my sister from me so long ago....” With a lazy smile, Enishi faced his opponent, his body loose yet poised for attack “...I will not let you take Kaoru from me too."
Kenshin smiled "So, this will be a repeat of our battle all those years ago...." Resheathing the sakabatou, he settled into his Battou Jutsu stance. "... If that's what you want I will fight you, but know this... I will have her back, even if I have to kill you again to do it."
Enishi simply smiled and shot forward. Calmly watching his enemy advance, Kenshin waited until the moment Enishi stepped within the attack and with godlike speed he drew his sakabatou, the blade precisely aimed to slam dead in his enemy's chest. He was stunned when the blade met with empty air and then felt a breath of air whisper by his cheek. Dropping, he spun to the side to avoid the blade and jumped back out of reach.
Enishi came to halt inches away from the wall, smiling he settled himself for another attack. "I've learned some new techniques in this life. I don't think you will find me as easy to kill this time."
Kenshin glared at his age old nemesis and shook off his initial shock. Gripping the sakabatou with both hands, he readied himself for the next strike. Enishi may have learned a few new tricks, but it wouldn't be enough. Not by a long shot.
Enishi simply watched his enemy ready himself, eyeing the predatory grace with which the ex-hitokiri moved, it slowly began to dawn on him that something wasn't right. And then it hit him, "How is it you are healed?"
Kenshin just smiled. He'd wondered how long it would take for Enishi to notice. "That's really none of your concern. But I will tell you that there is no way for you to win." Loosening his stance, he let the tip of his sakabatou fall slightly in a gesture of peace. "Give Kaoru to me and let us leave."
Enishi simply stared at him. "No."
Without another word, Enishi shot forward again, his blade aimed dead for his chest. Jumping into the air to avoid the strike, Kenshin wasn't prepared for Enishi's quick reflexes. All of a sudden, Enishi changed his attack trajectory and Kenshin hissed as the blade slid into his arm, slicing all the way to the bone. Landing soundlessly on the tatami mats covering the floor he glanced at the wound, the healing heat already slowing the blood flow. Sliding his eyes to Enishi, he just watched him from beneath his bangs, "If that is all you can manage you should give up now."
Enishi snorted, "I haven't even started yet." Flicking the blood drops from the tip of his blade, he smiled, "Let me show you, Battousai, just what I have learned." With that he shot forward again, twisting his upper body to deliver even more force behind the strike set to slice crosswise down his enemy.
Kenshin watched him come, reading Enishi's movements he simply waited for the strike. He smiled as he saw the blade traveling down to cut across his chest. Taking a miniscule step back, he flipped the blade of his sakabatou and rolled to the side just enough to avoid Enishi's slice. A breath of air whispered past his cheek and he brought up his sakabatou up; effortlessly cutting through the underside of Enishi's arms. He stepped back as Enishi's momentum took him past him to stumble to the center of the dojo.
Stumbling to a halt, Enishi bit back a growl and tried to ignore the throb pulsing dully down his arms. Fuck! He hadn't even seen the blade come up from underneath. He was better than this. Swallowing back the pain he fought to keep a grip on the heavy blade in his hand and turned to face his enemy. "Do you really think this will stop me?"
"No...but, I promised her I wouldn't kill you this time."
A small smile tickled Enishi's lips and he tightened his fingers around the hilt of his blade; lifting it for the next attack. "That is a promise you will not be able to keep. You will have to kill me to get to her."
Kenshin sighed and ready himself for the next strike, "I will not kill you. This time, for her and Tomoe, I will let you live. I will not break my promise to either one of them."
Enishi eyes widened and he nearly growled as Tomoe's name dropped so easily from her murderer's lips. All of a sudden, his vision bled red and he shot forward. All pain forgotten under the intense surge of hatred pounding through his body. "Don't talk about her! You have no right to even speak her name!"
Startled by Enishi's sudden viciousness, Kenshin was taken off guard by the attack. Too late he swung up his blade up to intercept the lethal slice aimed for his head. Deflecting the blade from its intended path, he hissed as it instead slid effortlessly into his shoulder, cutting clean into the bone. Grunting from the impact, he shoved against Enishi with all of his might; the blade sliding out of his flesh as his enemy fell back. With strength born of pain, Kenshin took advantage of his enemy's distraction and drove his sakabatou straight through Enishi's right shoulder; the skin ripping as the dull edge tore through his flesh.
Yanking it out, he stumbled back from his opponent and gripped the wound in his shoulder. "Will you stop now?"
Enishi simply stared at him, the absolute hatred swimming in the furious turquoise gaze fixed on him making him pause. And then he saw something else surface, something he couldn't quite put his finger on. Confused, Kenshin peered closely at his enemy and tried to ignore the shiver of dread that whispered through his body. Something had changed; he could feel it in the air. As if to prove him right, an almost inaudible growl filtered into the quiet dojo, one that made Kenshin's blood run cold.
"I will not give up! I will not stop until you are dead... you don't deserve her. I will save her this time."
Stunned, Kenshin just stared into the wild eyes fixed on him. "What do you mean, you will save her? She's not yours to save."
The wild look in Enishi's eyes intensified and he bit out, "You stole her happiness. Now it's up to me to protect her from you. For nee-san, I will kill you."
Startled, Kenshin simply watched Enishi shoot forward with even more speed, his movements almost too fast for him to see. Unable to read him, Kenshin swung his blade up into a defensive position and waited as the truth of what he'd just said hit him square between the eyes. This was no longer the Enishi of the present, this was the devastated little brother bent on jinchuu that had taken out his hatred on Kaoru so long ago. Enishi believed he was protecting Tomoe, not Kaoru.
Shaken by the realization, Kenshin could only watch Enishi advance as another thought hit him. For the first time in over a hundred years, he just might be facing his death. He could see his demise in the hate-filled gaze fixed on him. This had become more than a rescue, this had become a fight to the death. And he was no longer sure who the victor would be.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kaoru swallowed nervously and eyed the gun sitting on her bed. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea. What if Hei Shin wouldn't let her out? Everything hinged on whether or not the little weasel would give her the new access code. He had to, or this would all be over. Kenshin would die and so would she, if not in truth then in spirit. She couldn't stay here. Not anymore. That was asking too much of her.
Taking a step towards the bed she swallowed again. But could she really threaten someone's life for her freedom? Even if she didn't really mean to harm the little weasel, could she really do this? Could she really point a gun at him?
Smiling to herself, she fought the urge to nod her head. Yes. For her freedom and Kenshin's life she could do this.
Steeling herself, she took the last step that would bring her to means of her escape. Hesitantly reaching out, she gripped the gun firmly in her palm in an effort to get over her initial fear. She didn't even know if it was loaded. But really, it didn't matter. Hopefully the threat would be enough to get Hei Shin to let her out.
Heading towards the door before she could lose her nerve, she hid the gun behind her back and flung it open. Wandering out into the livingroom, she scowled when her eyes settled on the little man sitting in the chair across from her. The smug smile on his face gave her the last nudge she needed. She wasn't going to let this little bastard keep her caged like some animal.
"Kamiya-san? Shouldn't you be in bed?"
Not rising to his bait, she instead took another step towards him and slowly drew the gun out from behind her back. With her heart thundering in her ears, she wrapped both of her hands around it and pointed it dead at him. "Let me out."
Hei Shin simply looked at her, then dropped his eyes to the gun. She almost lost her composure as he slid his attention back to her, the smile on his face proof that he knew she didn't know how to use the weapon. Oh god, he wasn't going to fall for it. But... but... he had to! There was no other way!
Fighting down the sudden surge of panic pounding through her veins, she watched as Hei Shin took a step towards her and reached out with his palm up. "Give me the gun, Kamiya-san."
Starting to shake, Kaoru shook her head. Oh god, she had to get out, she had to get to Kenshin. Forcefully trying to stop her trembling, she took a step back as Hei Shin took another step towards her. "You don't even know how to use it, Kamiya-san. Give me the gun."
Ignoring him, Kaoru swallowed and shifted her attention to the gun, searching her memory for some indication on how to use the damn thing. Jesus, she'd been around killers for the last two years, she should know how to use it by now. And then, all of a sudden she did know. Lifting a trembling thumb she put it on the hammer and pulled it back and then she settled her index finger on the trigger. She almost laughed as Hei Shin paled.
Standing a little straighter, she took a step towards him and felt a small sense of gratification as he took a step back. Heartened, she whispered, "Please. Let me out."
Hei Shin simply shook his head, "If I let you out Enishi will kill me. Sorry, princess, I'm not going to die for you." Before she could fully process what he'd said, Hei Shin all of a sudden shot forward, completely taking her off guard.
Stunned, Kaoru tried to dodge out of his way, and then the unexpected happen, her finger spasmed, pulling the trigger. Taken off guard again, Kaoru stumbled back as the recoil nearly knocked her off her feet; the blast of the shot echoed through the apartment followed by a dull thud as the bullet buried itself in the far wall.
Dumbfounded, both of them simply stared at each other. Shaking off the shock first, Kaoru tried to stop the tremors wracking her arms and cocked the gun again; leveling it dead at Hei Shin. "I'll ask you one last time.... Let me out."
Hei Shin simply stared at her for several seconds before he nodded and made his way to the elevator. Without a word, he started punching in the access code. Kaoru's eyes began to sting and she bit back the sigh that tried to escape. She'd won. Now she could find them.
Keeping a firm grip on the gun, she dropped her arms and slowly made her way to the elevator. Coming up to within a few feet of Hei Shin she whispered, "I'm sorry, but I can't let Enishi kill him."
Hei Shin ignored her and hit the enter button. Watching him step back from the opening doors, she saw him tense and then he lunge at her with a rage she'd never seen swimming in his black eyes. "I'm not going to let you kill me, bitch!"
Shocked, Kaoru stumbled back and tried to lift the gun, but before she could get it up he knocked it from her hands. Twisting to the side to avoid him, she slammed hard into the wall. Shaking her head in an effort to rid herself the sudden ache throbbing to the beat of her heart she did her best to get her bearings. And then the sound of the elevator doors whispered into her ears and her eyes shot wide. Swinging her head, around she almost growled as she watched the doors start to slide closed.
Spurred by the sight, she ignored the little weasel picking himself up off the floor and dove for the rapidly closing doors, the wound in her leg screaming at the abuse. She hissed in pain as the doors closed on her body, with one last burst of strength she hauled herself into the elevator and collapsed to the floor. With a thud the doors slid closed behind her and she almost broke into tears, her arms shaking from both fear and the strain of forcing her way in. Taking a second to collect herself, she finally shoved off the floor and punched the button for the third floor before Hei Shin could enter the code again.
Relieved by her victory, Kaoru fell bonelessly against the wall as the elevator started its slow descent to the floor below. Feeling a wetness on her cheeks, she reached up and was surprised to feel the tears streaming down her face. Pulling her hand away, she simply stared at the cool wetness coating her fingertips. Why was she crying? She didn't even feel like crying, so what had caused the tears to slip free. Confused, she quietly contemplated this as the elevator continued it's descent and then all of a sudden a gun shot rang out from somewhere below her.
Startled, she tried to figure out where the shot had come from and then it all of a sudden hit her. Oh god, not again. As soon as the doors slid open to reveal Enishi's office, Kaoru bolted into the darkened room and stumbled for the door, the wound in her leg slowing her movements. She had to stop them now, and yet she had the feeling that she was going to be too late.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kenshin skidded to halt inches away from the door leading out of the dojo, his arms aching from the force of the strike he'd just disarmed Enishi with. Panting, he glanced across the dojo to where Enishi kneeled, then to the blade that rested on the mats against the far wall.
It was over. There was no way Enishi would be able to lift a blade that heavy with the wounds he'd suffered. Both of his enemy's shoulders were wounded now, the small pool of blood forming on either side of him a testament to the severity of the wounds.
Yes, it was finally over. It was time to go fetch Kaoru. "Enishi, give me -" He stopped as a gunshot suddenly echoed through the dojo and his stomach instantly twisted into a knot. The shot hadn't come from inside the dojo, it had come from above, which meant...
Spinning around he reached for the shoji, but stopped dead as a dull thud echoed through the dojo. Seconds later the bullet punched a hole through the shoji next to his head.
"Were not done here yet, Battousai."
Biting back a growl, Kenshin slowly turned around to face Enishi, who now stood with a gun pointed dead at him. Seeing the gleam of insanity still lingering in the turquoise gaze fixed on him, he stifled a sigh and took a step towards him. "This is over, Enishi. Let me have Kaoru."
Enishi just stared at him, his face betraying no hint that he'd even heard what Kenshin had said, "I can't let you live, Battousai. I promised her I would kill you. She will smile for me again when I kill you."
Kenshin shook his head and sighed. "That is long over, Enishi" he whispered in a non-threatening tone. Fighting down the sense of urgency pulsing through his veins, Kenshin kept his voice as level as he could, "I didn't kill her this time. This time she found the happiness I stole from her." Meeting the still wild eyes fixed on him, he added, "Please don't steal mine away again. Let Kaoru go."
"No! Tomoe won't smile for me if I let you go." Enishi's growled, his hands tightening on the handle of the gun.
And then another shot exploded into the room. Dodging to the side to avoid the bullet, Kenshin all of a sudden froze as, too late, he heard the soft grating of the shoji being opened behind him, her presence suddenly tingling over his skin...
"Enishi! Sto- ah.."
Everything slowed as her exclamation was cut off, the sickening thud of the bullet sinking into her flesh resounding loudly in his ears. Spinning around, all he could do was watch horrified as Kaoru stumbled back from the force of the shot and slowly crumbled to the floor, her sapphire eyes fixed on the man who had just accidentally put a bullet in her chest.
Opening his mouth to shout her name, he was stopped when another heart-wrenching shout exploded into the room.
"Kaoru!"
Startled by the agony evident in the voice, he swung his head around and simply stared at the now sane man staring at Kaoru's unmoving body; the gun hanging limply from his enemy's hand. And then Enishi dropped the gun and shot forward, his attention solely fixed on the woman bleeding onto the plush white carpet lining the hallway. All Kenshin could do was watch as Enishi stumbled to a halt beside her and dropped to his knees; collecting her bloodied form to his chest.
"Kaoru! Why?!... Why are you here?!"
The soft padding of slippered feet running across plush carpet whispered into the hallway and Kenshin looked up just as the door to Enishi's office swung fully open. His eyes widened when they fell on the little weasel who had come to his dojo, what seemed like forever ago, standing in the doorway. The look of horror on his face said it all, he must be the one who was supposed to keep Kaoru in the apartment.
"Yukishiro-sama.. I'm so-"
Enishi's hackles rose as the voice sounded into the hallway. This man actually had the audacity to show his face, he would have been better off killing himself. A cold calculating rage exploded in his veins as he gently set Kaoru down on the soft carpeting. He had failed again to protect the one he loved, but he wasn't the only cause of her death. No, this little weasel had failed for the last time.
Standing, he stepped over Kaoru's prone body and smiled as the little weasel took a step back into the office. "Why is she here?" he asked, in a frightening calm voice.
"Because she... she..." Hei Shin took a step back followed by another as Enishi drove him into the office.
"She what?" Enishi asked, the malice in his voice enough to make even Kenshin pause. Taking another step further into the office, Kenshin heard Enishi ask, "Why did you let her out?!"
Hei Shin's answer was nothing but a muffled reply as the two men disappeared into the office. Ignoring them, Kenshin dropped to his knees beside Kaoru and simply stared into her calm face. Why? Why had he waited so long to only to have her stolen from him again? It wasn't fair, not fair at all. Gathering her limp form into his arms he hugged her to his chest, burying his face in her hair. Why? Why did this have to happen? She was gone, there was no way the gift could bring her back.
Trying to ignore the soul-crushing numbness threatening to swallow him whole, he hugged her even tighter. He suddenly stilled as a flutter of breath whispered against his shirt. Startled, he released his hold and pulled her back far enough for him to take a closer look at her. It was then he noticed her chest moving ever so slightly up and down. Unable to believe his eyes, he quickly leaned down and put his ear to her chest. He almost laughed when he heard the light thumping of her heart pounding erratically in her chest, her labored breathing coming in strangled gasps. Snapping his head back up, he simply stared at her moving chest and smiled. If she was alive he could save her.
Spurred by the thought, he immediately shifted his attention to the gunshot wound in her chest. The blood drained from his face when he saw the placement of the wound. If he wasn't mistaken, the bullet had either pierced her right lung or it had come perilously close. An icy cold wave of fear slid through his veins as the truth of the situation slammed him dead in the chest; he couldn't take the bullet out. Not without running the risk of killing her himself. And then it hit him, if he got her to the hospital the bullet would be removed and then he could give her that which he'd saved for her all these years. She would live.
Heartened by the knowledge, Kenshin gently laid her back down and jumped to his feet. Reaching down, he gently lifted her into his arms. He tried to ignore the strangled gasp of pain that hissed from between her lips at the movement. Gently tucking her against his chest, he turned to head back the way he had come and swore. Blocking his exit were four of Enishi's men, all of them pointing a gun dead at him.
"Where do you think you're going?"
Kenshin nearly growled at their idiocy, "I have to get her to the hospital. She will die if I don't leave now." When all the speaker did was smile, he took a step towards them, his eyes immediately taking on their amber hue, "Get out of my way!"
The speaker's smile grew slightly and he started to answer," N-"
"Let them pass."
Kenshin nearly jumped as Enishi's voice sounded from behind him. Glancing over his shoulder, he was surprised to see his enemy standing in the hallway with a bloody katana hanging from one fist and a set of keys from the other. And yet, what really shocked him was the look on his brother-in-law's face. It was the unmistakable look of defeat.
He was even more surprised when Enishi tossed the keys over his head to the men blocking his way, "Genbu, drive them to the hospital."
Stunned, Kenshin simply stared at him. Enishi met his widened eyes, a sardonic smirk turned up the corner of his mouth. "I don't deserve her. She's yours now." With that Enishi turned his back on him and headed back into the dojo. A strangled breath brought him back to his senses and he was spurred into motion once again.
Looking to the four men now lining the walls he took off at a fast walk, careful not to jostle Kaoru any more than he had to; the one called Genbu following close behind.
Another labored breath whispered from between Kaoru's lips and he picked up the pace as much as he dared. It was a race against time now. All he could hope was that he was fast enough.
He couldn't let her die. Not again.
oooooooooooooooooo
Sorry about the cliffhanger... but she's still alive. If barely. Anyway, I'll do my best to get the next chap out as soon as I can. With Christmas coming it may take a bit longer but I will do all I can to get it done quickly.
Please review and let me know what you think.
A/N - Hi all. Sorry, once again, for the lateness of this chapter. I really put a lot of effort into making it as good as I could so hopefully you will find it was worth the wait.
Also, for those of you who have read MARS, I recently posted a small one shot called Always and Forever in this extremely small fandom. Hope you like it.
Forever Mine
Chapter 18 - Forever Mine Pt. 1Kaoru swallowed nervously and knocked gently on the door to Enishi's room. Maybe, if she was lucky, he had changed his mind and he'd let her go back to her own room. Her lip curled slightly in disbelief, that wasn't likely to happen. He'd never backed down on anything he'd said before, why start now. She jumped when the door all of a sudden swung open, the empty space suddenly filled with Enishi's shirtless frame, the sardonic smirk on his face setting alight a small flame of anger in her belly. For several seconds all he did was stare at her, then he gave her the once over and smiled. Without a word, he turned and made his way back into the room.
Glaring at his back, Kaoru hesitated as a gaggle of butterflies danced to life in her belly. Could she really do this? God, this really was too much!
"Are you coming in or do I have to carry you in?"
Kaoru scowled and gave Enishi an icy glare. Stepping into his most private domain, she swung the door closed behind her, "Why do you want me in here?"
Enishi just smiled and settled on the bed. "Because this is where you belong." Laying back, he situated himself against the headboard; staring dead at her he patted the bed beside him.
Kaoru's scowl deepened at his confidence. Ignoring his invitation, she remained right where she was as the small flame of anger grew, "What do you want with me, Enishi? Why won't you let me go?"
Enishi shrugged, "You are mine, Kaoru, and nothing is going to change that. I lost Tomoe, I don't intend on losing you too." With that, he yanked back the covers on her side of the bed, "Come, it's been a long day. Let's go to bed."
The scowl fell from Kaoru's lips and she swallowed nervously, even though his words were spoken without malice she could see the demand swimming in his eyes. He wasn't going to play games. Ignoring the shiver of disgust that whispered through her body she gave in and slowly limped over to the bed. She could do this, it was only sleeping after all... right?
Scowling at herself, she turned her back on him and settled down on the bed... yes, it was only sleep. All of a sudden a hand locked onto her shoulder and yanked her backwards. Letting out a scream, she winced as her injured leg crashed against the side of the bed. All pain was soon forgotten though as seconds later she found herself pinned, Enishi's grip holding her firmly against the bed. Biting her lip to keep from screaming at his touch, she stared into the intense turquoise gaze fixed on her.
"Are you afraid I will kill you again?"
Startled by the direct question, all she could do was stare at him. Her heart twisted slightly at the scarred look lingering deep in his eyes. Closing her eyes against the truth in his, she simply nodded. She nearly sighed when he let her go, sitting up slowly she peeked over shoulder.
Enishi stood and pulled back his own covers, "I promise you, I won't kill you." Settling down on his back, he avoided looking at her and instead stared at the ceiling. "I don't think I could, even if I wanted to."
Kaoru's eyes widened at his admission. Slowly he slid his eyes to her and pinned her with an intense stare filled with something she'd never seen in them before. "I'm not so cold-hearted that I can kill someone I love."
With that he rolled away from her and flicked off the light. "Go to sleep."
Stunned, Kaoru could only stare dumbfounded at his silhouette. That was the first time in the two years since they'd started seeing each other he'd said he loved her. The very first time. Wilting under the weight of his confession, she tried to ignore the throb pulsing dully in her chest and hung her head. Why did he have to say that now? Hadn't she asked him before for this honestly, and yet he'd always evaded the question. Instead making her believe she was nothing but a toy he selfishly wanted to keep.
Steeling herself against the numbness trying to settle into her bones, she cast one last glance at him and turned her back; working her way under the covers. It was too little, too late. It hurt, but that didn't matter anymore, things had changed so much in the last few days. His confession would change nothing. She was still going to leave, whether he liked it or not. Any love she had held for him had died when he'd tried to kill those she loved most. There was nothing left but a weary sadness that she knew, with time, would slowly fade away.
Settling into the warmth surrounding her, she sighed softly and closed her eyes. His love was too little, too late.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kenshin glanced to the clock again as he made another circuit of the family dojo, only another fifteen minutes to go. Rubbing his forehead he sighed, for the last several hours it seemed each minute took an hour to pass and the closer he got to leaving the longer it seemed to take. He hadn't had any rest since he'd awoken in Sano's apartment, of course it didn't help that every time he'd settled down to sleep he'd drift off only to be awoken by images of the past that came to haunt him. Mainly images of Kaoru pinned the wall of the dojo although a couple of times it had been of Tomoe instead or even images of the final battle between he and Enishi. It seemed the past was not going to simply let him go.
With a sigh, he rolled his shoulders in an effort to loosen the knots of stress that had settled in his neck. Needless to say, it had been an extremely long afternoon. At least one thing was going his way. Enishi had no idea where he was and if he was lucky his old enemy would think him unable to come after Kaoru. Oh, Enishi knew he was still alive, but there was no way the yakuza boss could find him. None.
Casting a glance to the far wall and the well hidden doorway, he let a small smile play across his lips. But then again, Enishi didn't know the history of this building either which had helped immensely when it had come time for him to disappear. He'd never thought in a million years that his sentimentality would pay off in the end. Behind that wall stood the only room that remained of the dojo that had once been the home of the Kamiya Kasshin Ryu. One day when he had Kaoru with him again, he would bring her here to see the last remnant of her age old home.
Glancing to the wall clock again he shook himself, 3:45 am. Finally, the time had come.
Heading to the far corner, he grabbed the shoulder sling carrying his sakabatou and swung it over his head, settling it crosswise over his back. Adjusting the unfamiliar weight more comfortably he tossed the ankle length black trench coat over his shoulders to hide the weapon, and donned the black gloves tucked into the coat pockets. Checking to make sure the blueprints were still in the inside pocket, he let a small smile play across his lips. If these were right, it shouldn't be all that hard to get into Enishi's building. Somehow Aoshi had gotten the code to the back door... and the elevator; although more than likely the code for the elevator had changed since Kaoru's escape.
Inwardly shrugging, he gave himself the once over to see if he had everything else he needed. It was then he noticed the lack of a blade. Glancing at the katana still resting against the wall, he began to reach for it...
Don’t kill him... for me and Tomoe, don't kill him this time.
His hand stopped and he just stared at the blade that had taken Enishi's life all those years ago. Closing his eyes, he fisted his hand tight and scowled. Could he do this without killing Enishi? Did he want to? Sliding his eyes back open, he just stared at the sheathed blade. What would be the consequences of letting Enishi live? Would he let them live peacefully, or would he forever be a thorn in their side?
Scowling at the unanswerable questions, he tightened his fist even more and turned his back on the blade; heading for the door. For her, he would let Enishi live. Hopefully they wouldn't regret it.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kaoru slowly rose up out of the darkness as a quiet trill sounded in her ears, the ring sounding foreign to her sleep heavy mind. Confused, she yawned and rubbed her eyes, opening them to the darkened room she searched the darkness for some sign of what the sound was. Seconds later the strange trill whispered into the quiet of the room again and it finally dawned on her what she was hearing... a cell phone.
Slowly sitting up, she was startled fully awake when an arm snaked out from beside her and grabbed the blinking device on the other night table; flipping it open.
"What?!" Enishi growled, in a sleep heavy voice. Watching, as he slowly sat up and flipped on the light, she was all of a sudden filled with an almost sickening dread. Her stomach twisted into a knot as he glanced over his shoulder, the icy smile tickling his lips making her weak.
"Let him through. Herd him towards the dojo." With that, he flipped the phone closed and chuckled. Shoving off the bed, Enishi grabbed his discarded pants and slipped them on "It seems he's either a fast healer or incredibly stupid." Grabbing his shirt, he tossed it over his shoulders and pinned her with an intense look, "He must want you badly, if he has come to face me still wounded from our earlier confrontation."
Suddenly sick, Kaoru dragged her eyes away from his and shot out of the bed; nearly falling to her knees as the wound in her leg protested the sudden weight. Clenching her teeth, she fought back the tears stinging her eyes and limped to Enishi, "Leave him alone Enishi. Please, just leave him alone."
Enishi shook his head and smiled, "I would have, had he not come here." Walking the few steps separating them, he brushed away the single tear that had slipped from the corner of her eye. "He should have left well enough alone. You are mine and that will never change... and since he refuses to accept that, I will wipe him from the face of the earth." With that said, Enishi leaned in and brushed his lips gently against hers, then headed for the door.
Kaoru just stared at him as he flung the door open and headed out into the darkened livingroom. No... she couldn't let this happen. Why?! Why did he have to come already?! She hadn't had enough time. Not enough time at all.
Stumbling to the door, she caught herself on the frame, "Enishi... don't..."
Steps away from the elevator, Enishi stopped and glanced over his shoulder, "I'm sorry, princess, he asked for it." With that, he gave his attention to Hei Shin. "This is your final chance. Keep her here. If you fail I will give you to Shishio to play with, got it?"
Hei Shin slid a glance to Kaoru, then nodded, "I'll keep her here."
Satisfied, Enishi made his way to the elevator and punched in the code, "I'll be back soon, princess. Wait for me."
With that he stepped into the elevator, leaving Kaoru staring at the spot he'd just occupied; the quiet thump of the doors closing sounding like a coffin lid dropping closed. Suddenly sick, she let her eyes drift to Hei Shin and she scowled at the smile painted across his weasely face. "Your lover is a dead man", he said.
"Shut up!"
Hei Shin's smile grew even more and she had to fight to keep herself from slapping him across the face. Turning her back on him, she slowly hobbled her way back to Enishi's room. Slamming the door behind her, she sank to the floor. Why? Why was he here already? Why did he come still wounded? Was this fate's way of saying she really did belong to Enishi? Sickened by the thought, she dropped her head to her knees. There was no way Kenshin would survive this time. Why didn't he just stay away? She could have gotten away; she knew she could have if she'd been given enough time.
Collapsing even more into herself, she finally succumbed to the tears burning her eyes. And she couldn't even get out to warn him that Enishi had his memories back. Fate was truly against them. Sniffling, she fought off the deadening numbness trying to sink into her very bones. If only she could somehow warn him. Somehow tell him that she could do this on her own.
All of a sudden the room plunged into darkness as a loud crash echoed through the room followed by a pain-filled hiss. Startled, Kaoru's head shot up and she scanned the pitch black room. "Raijin?"
A pathetic meow sounded a few feet in front of her. Chuckling, she levered herself off the floor and slowly made her way to the fallen night table on Enishi's side of the bed, "Good thing Enishi isn't here, Raijin. He'd be very upset with you." All of a sudden, a soft coat rubbed itself against her ankle. Grinning, she bent over and scratched his back, "Its ok. I'm not mad at you, but I need light."
Straightening, Kaoru slowly felt her way to overturned night table, suddenly her toe bumped into something hard and she slowly lifted table back into place. A dull thud made her jump as the front drawer slid free and fell back to the floor. Cursing, she lifted the table lamp back into place and searched the wall for the outlet. Plugging it back in, she hissed as light suddenly flooded the room.
"Raijin, I swear you're either trying to kill me or blind me." she grumbled, closing her eyes against the brightness. Feeling her way to the bed and settled down.
The bed suddenly sagged next to her and a big furry head butted itself against her arm. Smiling she rubbed her eyes and slid them open, "Its ok. I still love you, just don't do that again." Raijin just looked at her with his big golden eyes. Unnerved by their likeness to Kenshin's, she averted her eyes and gasped softly as they fell on the contents of the drawer scattered across the plush carpet.
Stunned, all she could do was stare at the object laying innocently inches away from her feet. It couldn't be... was lady luck finally smiling on her?
Slowly reaching down, she gently lifted the gun as a sudden surge of hope flooded through her veins. Holding it gingerly, she just stared at the means to her escape. And yet... turning the gun from side to side she realized that she had no idea how to work it. She had never, in her entire life, held a gun before. Ever.
But...
She had no choice, with this she could get out of the apartment. Once she was out, she could find Kenshin and that's all that mattered right now. She had to find Kenshin. No matter what, she had to stop this fight. Steeling herself, she tucked the gun into her yukata and made her way to the door. All she needed to do was get dressed, then she would be ready.
She could do this... she knew she could.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kenshin slipped silently down the halls on the second floor of Enishi's building. He was still a little leery at the ease with which he'd been able to make his way this far. Something didn't quite feel right. So far he'd encounter only two of Enishi's men, and both of those had been easy to overcome... too easy. He hadn't needed to exert himself at all. Another thing he found strange was, if he wasn't mistaken, he was being herded somewhere. Several times he'd hear the click of a lock either being thrown or opened just before he reached a chosen door. Must be Enishi knew he was here already and was leading him to a chosen destination.
Smirking, he stopped and leaned against the wall. Let Enishi guide him to his ultimate defeat, the bastard had it coming. Checking both ways, he dug out the blueprints and checked his position. He was almost there. Glancing to his right he nearly smiled when he heard the unmistakable sound of a lock being opened. If he was right, it was to the door that would lead to the staircase that would take him to the third floor; the home of Enishi's office which had access to the apartment above and of Enishi's dojo. Perfect. He would be that much closer to Kaoru when he defeated Enishi.
Tucking the blueprints back into his pocket, he headed for the door and the end of the nightmare Enishi had so willfully shoved him into. Soon it would be all over. Kaoru would be by his side again, and this time no one would be able to take her from him.
Slipping silently down the hallway, he opened the door and scanned the staircase. Just as before there was no sign of anyone and yet he knew they were there. Heightening his senses he stepped into the stairwell and took the steps two at a time up to the next level. Slowly opening the door that led to the third floor, he scanned the empty hallway. No one. Not a soul. Must be Enishi wanted him all to himself. Smirking, Kenshin stepped into the barren hallway and silently made his way to the shoji on the left. Didn't matter he'd cut through them all to get her back... and he just might have to do that after he defeated Enishi. He seriously doubted Enishi's men would just let him and Kaoru leave. That’s why he'd timed it so there would be very little time between him getting Kaoru back and Aoshi's raid. Hopefully it would be enough. It would defeat his purpose if they all went to jail.
Shoving the thought from his mind, he cleared his thoughts and stepped up to the closed shoji that led to the dojo. This was it. He could feel his enemy’s ki just on the other side of the door. He would try to take Kaoru back without a fight, but he knew Enishi wasn't likely to just let he go. Deep down, he knew there was no way his old enemy would give up that easily. Not if he was anything like he had been so long ago. Steeling himself, he removed the cloak and dropped it on the floor; unslinging his sakabatou he tucked it into his belt and stepped up to open the door. It was time to finish this.
Stifling a sigh, he took a deep breath and settled himself. Soundlessly sliding the shoji back, he stepped into the wide open dojo. He stopped as his eyes found the source of all his recent headaches standing sedately on the far side of the room. Sliding the shoji closed behind him, he took another step in, "Enishi."
Enishi just smiled. "Welcome Battousai. It's been quite a long time since we've faced off like this."
With that one sentence, Kenshin realized his worst fears had come true. Enishi had remembered his past life. Ignoring the sudden whisper of dread swimming though his veins, he simply stared at his reborn brother-in-law, "I didn't come here to fight you. All I want is Kaoru."
A light chuckle whispered into the room, it made the killer in him itch to wipe the smile off of Enishi's face. Fighting to remain calm, he just glared at the man who stood between him and the one he'd waited so long to have.
"I'm sorry, Battousai. That's impossible, she's mine."
Kenshin stifled the growl that tried to escape, "No, she's not. She doesn't want to be here, Enishi. Let her go."
Enishi smirked, "No." Reaching behind him he lifted a long blade Kenshin recognized from its resting place on the wall. "The only way she will be able to leave this place is if I'm dead. I told you, she is mine and that will never change." Testing the weight of the watou, Enishi rolled his shoulders. "Shall we finish what we started all those years ago?"
Kenshin stared at his age old enemy, then smirked, "I'm sure you remember... I already finished that." He felt no gratification at the scowl that slid across Enishi's face, loosening his sakabatou in its sheath, he sighed. It was quite obvious Enishi wasn't going to back down. Taking one more step into the dojo, he asked "What do you want with Kaoru?"
Enishi smiled, "That's really none of your concern, now is it." He chuckled at the black look that settled on his enemy's face, and then he noticed the slight tinge of fear deep in the stormy violet gaze fixed on him. Surprised, his smile widened slightly and he asked, "Do you think I want to kill her again?" The flicker of unease that passed through his enemy's eyes was all the answer he needed. Tilting his head to the side, he settled his blade across his shoulders and stepped away from the wall. "Why would I do that? She's mine this time."
Kenshin scowled, "She doesn't want to be with you, Enishi. Let her go."
Enishi cocked an eyebrow as a small smile tickled the corners of his lips. "If she didn't want to be with me, then why did I leave her in my bed to come down here?"
Kenshin's fist tightened on the hilt of his sakabatou, his blood suddenly boiling. "What did you do to her, Enishi?!"
"Once again, that's really none of your business." Enishi lifted his watou from his shoulders and settled into a comfortable stance, waiting for the strike he could see swimming in the now amber gaze fixed on him. It seemed his enemy was still a hitokiri at heart. Confused by this, he asked, “How is it you are still the same?"
"That's really none of your business." Kenshin growled, using his enemy's own words against him. "Give Kaoru to me now!"
Unfazed, Enishi just stared at him. "If you want her that badly, you'll have to go through me first."
That was the last straw. Unable to keep the killer buried, Kenshin felt a cold calm settle over him for the first time in over a hundred years. Regretting the lack of a katana, he rolled his shoulders and drew his sakabatou. Didn't matter. He'd get her back, of that there was no question.
"So, you've finally awakened. The killer, who took my sister from me so long ago....” With a lazy smile, Enishi faced his opponent, his body loose yet poised for attack “...I will not let you take Kaoru from me too."
Kenshin smiled "So, this will be a repeat of our battle all those years ago...." Resheathing the sakabatou, he settled into his Battou Jutsu stance. "... If that's what you want I will fight you, but know this... I will have her back, even if I have to kill you again to do it."
Enishi simply smiled and shot forward. Calmly watching his enemy advance, Kenshin waited until the moment Enishi stepped within the attack and with godlike speed he drew his sakabatou, the blade precisely aimed to slam dead in his enemy's chest. He was stunned when the blade met with empty air and then felt a breath of air whisper by his cheek. Dropping, he spun to the side to avoid the blade and jumped back out of reach.
Enishi came to halt inches away from the wall, smiling he settled himself for another attack. "I've learned some new techniques in this life. I don't think you will find me as easy to kill this time."
Kenshin glared at his age old nemesis and shook off his initial shock. Gripping the sakabatou with both hands, he readied himself for the next strike. Enishi may have learned a few new tricks, but it wouldn't be enough. Not by a long shot.
Enishi simply watched his enemy ready himself, eyeing the predatory grace with which the ex-hitokiri moved, it slowly began to dawn on him that something wasn't right. And then it hit him, "How is it you are healed?"
Kenshin just smiled. He'd wondered how long it would take for Enishi to notice. "That's really none of your concern. But I will tell you that there is no way for you to win." Loosening his stance, he let the tip of his sakabatou fall slightly in a gesture of peace. "Give Kaoru to me and let us leave."
Enishi simply stared at him. "No."
Without another word, Enishi shot forward again, his blade aimed dead for his chest. Jumping into the air to avoid the strike, Kenshin wasn't prepared for Enishi's quick reflexes. All of a sudden, Enishi changed his attack trajectory and Kenshin hissed as the blade slid into his arm, slicing all the way to the bone. Landing soundlessly on the tatami mats covering the floor he glanced at the wound, the healing heat already slowing the blood flow. Sliding his eyes to Enishi, he just watched him from beneath his bangs, "If that is all you can manage you should give up now."
Enishi snorted, "I haven't even started yet." Flicking the blood drops from the tip of his blade, he smiled, "Let me show you, Battousai, just what I have learned." With that he shot forward again, twisting his upper body to deliver even more force behind the strike set to slice crosswise down his enemy.
Kenshin watched him come, reading Enishi's movements he simply waited for the strike. He smiled as he saw the blade traveling down to cut across his chest. Taking a miniscule step back, he flipped the blade of his sakabatou and rolled to the side just enough to avoid Enishi's slice. A breath of air whispered past his cheek and he brought up his sakabatou up; effortlessly cutting through the underside of Enishi's arms. He stepped back as Enishi's momentum took him past him to stumble to the center of the dojo.
Stumbling to a halt, Enishi bit back a growl and tried to ignore the throb pulsing dully down his arms. Fuck! He hadn't even seen the blade come up from underneath. He was better than this. Swallowing back the pain he fought to keep a grip on the heavy blade in his hand and turned to face his enemy. "Do you really think this will stop me?"
"No...but, I promised her I wouldn't kill you this time."
A small smile tickled Enishi's lips and he tightened his fingers around the hilt of his blade; lifting it for the next attack. "That is a promise you will not be able to keep. You will have to kill me to get to her."
Kenshin sighed and ready himself for the next strike, "I will not kill you. This time, for her and Tomoe, I will let you live. I will not break my promise to either one of them."
Enishi eyes widened and he nearly growled as Tomoe's name dropped so easily from her murderer's lips. All of a sudden, his vision bled red and he shot forward. All pain forgotten under the intense surge of hatred pounding through his body. "Don't talk about her! You have no right to even speak her name!"
Startled by Enishi's sudden viciousness, Kenshin was taken off guard by the attack. Too late he swung up his blade up to intercept the lethal slice aimed for his head. Deflecting the blade from its intended path, he hissed as it instead slid effortlessly into his shoulder, cutting clean into the bone. Grunting from the impact, he shoved against Enishi with all of his might; the blade sliding out of his flesh as his enemy fell back. With strength born of pain, Kenshin took advantage of his enemy's distraction and drove his sakabatou straight through Enishi's right shoulder; the skin ripping as the dull edge tore through his flesh.
Yanking it out, he stumbled back from his opponent and gripped the wound in his shoulder. "Will you stop now?"
Enishi simply stared at him, the absolute hatred swimming in the furious turquoise gaze fixed on him making him pause. And then he saw something else surface, something he couldn't quite put his finger on. Confused, Kenshin peered closely at his enemy and tried to ignore the shiver of dread that whispered through his body. Something had changed; he could feel it in the air. As if to prove him right, an almost inaudible growl filtered into the quiet dojo, one that made Kenshin's blood run cold.
"I will not give up! I will not stop until you are dead... you don't deserve her. I will save her this time."
Stunned, Kenshin just stared into the wild eyes fixed on him. "What do you mean, you will save her? She's not yours to save."
The wild look in Enishi's eyes intensified and he bit out, "You stole her happiness. Now it's up to me to protect her from you. For nee-san, I will kill you."
Startled, Kenshin simply watched Enishi shoot forward with even more speed, his movements almost too fast for him to see. Unable to read him, Kenshin swung his blade up into a defensive position and waited as the truth of what he'd just said hit him square between the eyes. This was no longer the Enishi of the present, this was the devastated little brother bent on jinchuu that had taken out his hatred on Kaoru so long ago. Enishi believed he was protecting Tomoe, not Kaoru.
Shaken by the realization, Kenshin could only watch Enishi advance as another thought hit him. For the first time in over a hundred years, he just might be facing his death. He could see his demise in the hate-filled gaze fixed on him. This had become more than a rescue, this had become a fight to the death. And he was no longer sure who the victor would be.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kaoru swallowed nervously and eyed the gun sitting on her bed. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea. What if Hei Shin wouldn't let her out? Everything hinged on whether or not the little weasel would give her the new access code. He had to, or this would all be over. Kenshin would die and so would she, if not in truth then in spirit. She couldn't stay here. Not anymore. That was asking too much of her.
Taking a step towards the bed she swallowed again. But could she really threaten someone's life for her freedom? Even if she didn't really mean to harm the little weasel, could she really do this? Could she really point a gun at him?
Smiling to herself, she fought the urge to nod her head. Yes. For her freedom and Kenshin's life she could do this.
Steeling herself, she took the last step that would bring her to means of her escape. Hesitantly reaching out, she gripped the gun firmly in her palm in an effort to get over her initial fear. She didn't even know if it was loaded. But really, it didn't matter. Hopefully the threat would be enough to get Hei Shin to let her out.
Heading towards the door before she could lose her nerve, she hid the gun behind her back and flung it open. Wandering out into the livingroom, she scowled when her eyes settled on the little man sitting in the chair across from her. The smug smile on his face gave her the last nudge she needed. She wasn't going to let this little bastard keep her caged like some animal.
"Kamiya-san? Shouldn't you be in bed?"
Not rising to his bait, she instead took another step towards him and slowly drew the gun out from behind her back. With her heart thundering in her ears, she wrapped both of her hands around it and pointed it dead at him. "Let me out."
Hei Shin simply looked at her, then dropped his eyes to the gun. She almost lost her composure as he slid his attention back to her, the smile on his face proof that he knew she didn't know how to use the weapon. Oh god, he wasn't going to fall for it. But... but... he had to! There was no other way!
Fighting down the sudden surge of panic pounding through her veins, she watched as Hei Shin took a step towards her and reached out with his palm up. "Give me the gun, Kamiya-san."
Starting to shake, Kaoru shook her head. Oh god, she had to get out, she had to get to Kenshin. Forcefully trying to stop her trembling, she took a step back as Hei Shin took another step towards her. "You don't even know how to use it, Kamiya-san. Give me the gun."
Ignoring him, Kaoru swallowed and shifted her attention to the gun, searching her memory for some indication on how to use the damn thing. Jesus, she'd been around killers for the last two years, she should know how to use it by now. And then, all of a sudden she did know. Lifting a trembling thumb she put it on the hammer and pulled it back and then she settled her index finger on the trigger. She almost laughed as Hei Shin paled.
Standing a little straighter, she took a step towards him and felt a small sense of gratification as he took a step back. Heartened, she whispered, "Please. Let me out."
Hei Shin simply shook his head, "If I let you out Enishi will kill me. Sorry, princess, I'm not going to die for you." Before she could fully process what he'd said, Hei Shin all of a sudden shot forward, completely taking her off guard.
Stunned, Kaoru tried to dodge out of his way, and then the unexpected happen, her finger spasmed, pulling the trigger. Taken off guard again, Kaoru stumbled back as the recoil nearly knocked her off her feet; the blast of the shot echoed through the apartment followed by a dull thud as the bullet buried itself in the far wall.
Dumbfounded, both of them simply stared at each other. Shaking off the shock first, Kaoru tried to stop the tremors wracking her arms and cocked the gun again; leveling it dead at Hei Shin. "I'll ask you one last time.... Let me out."
Hei Shin simply stared at her for several seconds before he nodded and made his way to the elevator. Without a word, he started punching in the access code. Kaoru's eyes began to sting and she bit back the sigh that tried to escape. She'd won. Now she could find them.
Keeping a firm grip on the gun, she dropped her arms and slowly made her way to the elevator. Coming up to within a few feet of Hei Shin she whispered, "I'm sorry, but I can't let Enishi kill him."
Hei Shin ignored her and hit the enter button. Watching him step back from the opening doors, she saw him tense and then he lunge at her with a rage she'd never seen swimming in his black eyes. "I'm not going to let you kill me, bitch!"
Shocked, Kaoru stumbled back and tried to lift the gun, but before she could get it up he knocked it from her hands. Twisting to the side to avoid him, she slammed hard into the wall. Shaking her head in an effort to rid herself the sudden ache throbbing to the beat of her heart she did her best to get her bearings. And then the sound of the elevator doors whispered into her ears and her eyes shot wide. Swinging her head, around she almost growled as she watched the doors start to slide closed.
Spurred by the sight, she ignored the little weasel picking himself up off the floor and dove for the rapidly closing doors, the wound in her leg screaming at the abuse. She hissed in pain as the doors closed on her body, with one last burst of strength she hauled herself into the elevator and collapsed to the floor. With a thud the doors slid closed behind her and she almost broke into tears, her arms shaking from both fear and the strain of forcing her way in. Taking a second to collect herself, she finally shoved off the floor and punched the button for the third floor before Hei Shin could enter the code again.
Relieved by her victory, Kaoru fell bonelessly against the wall as the elevator started its slow descent to the floor below. Feeling a wetness on her cheeks, she reached up and was surprised to feel the tears streaming down her face. Pulling her hand away, she simply stared at the cool wetness coating her fingertips. Why was she crying? She didn't even feel like crying, so what had caused the tears to slip free. Confused, she quietly contemplated this as the elevator continued it's descent and then all of a sudden a gun shot rang out from somewhere below her.
Startled, she tried to figure out where the shot had come from and then it all of a sudden hit her. Oh god, not again. As soon as the doors slid open to reveal Enishi's office, Kaoru bolted into the darkened room and stumbled for the door, the wound in her leg slowing her movements. She had to stop them now, and yet she had the feeling that she was going to be too late.
oooooooooooooooooo
Kenshin skidded to halt inches away from the door leading out of the dojo, his arms aching from the force of the strike he'd just disarmed Enishi with. Panting, he glanced across the dojo to where Enishi kneeled, then to the blade that rested on the mats against the far wall.
It was over. There was no way Enishi would be able to lift a blade that heavy with the wounds he'd suffered. Both of his enemy's shoulders were wounded now, the small pool of blood forming on either side of him a testament to the severity of the wounds.
Yes, it was finally over. It was time to go fetch Kaoru. "Enishi, give me -" He stopped as a gunshot suddenly echoed through the dojo and his stomach instantly twisted into a knot. The shot hadn't come from inside the dojo, it had come from above, which meant...
Spinning around he reached for the shoji, but stopped dead as a dull thud echoed through the dojo. Seconds later the bullet punched a hole through the shoji next to his head.
"Were not done here yet, Battousai."
Biting back a growl, Kenshin slowly turned around to face Enishi, who now stood with a gun pointed dead at him. Seeing the gleam of insanity still lingering in the turquoise gaze fixed on him, he stifled a sigh and took a step towards him. "This is over, Enishi. Let me have Kaoru."
Enishi just stared at him, his face betraying no hint that he'd even heard what Kenshin had said, "I can't let you live, Battousai. I promised her I would kill you. She will smile for me again when I kill you."
Kenshin shook his head and sighed. "That is long over, Enishi" he whispered in a non-threatening tone. Fighting down the sense of urgency pulsing through his veins, Kenshin kept his voice as level as he could, "I didn't kill her this time. This time she found the happiness I stole from her." Meeting the still wild eyes fixed on him, he added, "Please don't steal mine away again. Let Kaoru go."
"No! Tomoe won't smile for me if I let you go." Enishi's growled, his hands tightening on the handle of the gun.
And then another shot exploded into the room. Dodging to the side to avoid the bullet, Kenshin all of a sudden froze as, too late, he heard the soft grating of the shoji being opened behind him, her presence suddenly tingling over his skin...
"Enishi! Sto- ah.."
Everything slowed as her exclamation was cut off, the sickening thud of the bullet sinking into her flesh resounding loudly in his ears. Spinning around, all he could do was watch horrified as Kaoru stumbled back from the force of the shot and slowly crumbled to the floor, her sapphire eyes fixed on the man who had just accidentally put a bullet in her chest.
Opening his mouth to shout her name, he was stopped when another heart-wrenching shout exploded into the room.
"Kaoru!"
Startled by the agony evident in the voice, he swung his head around and simply stared at the now sane man staring at Kaoru's unmoving body; the gun hanging limply from his enemy's hand. And then Enishi dropped the gun and shot forward, his attention solely fixed on the woman bleeding onto the plush white carpet lining the hallway. All Kenshin could do was watch as Enishi stumbled to a halt beside her and dropped to his knees; collecting her bloodied form to his chest.
"Kaoru! Why?!... Why are you here?!"
The soft padding of slippered feet running across plush carpet whispered into the hallway and Kenshin looked up just as the door to Enishi's office swung fully open. His eyes widened when they fell on the little weasel who had come to his dojo, what seemed like forever ago, standing in the doorway. The look of horror on his face said it all, he must be the one who was supposed to keep Kaoru in the apartment.
"Yukishiro-sama.. I'm so-"
Enishi's hackles rose as the voice sounded into the hallway. This man actually had the audacity to show his face, he would have been better off killing himself. A cold calculating rage exploded in his veins as he gently set Kaoru down on the soft carpeting. He had failed again to protect the one he loved, but he wasn't the only cause of her death. No, this little weasel had failed for the last time.
Standing, he stepped over Kaoru's prone body and smiled as the little weasel took a step back into the office. "Why is she here?" he asked, in a frightening calm voice.
"Because she... she..." Hei Shin took a step back followed by another as Enishi drove him into the office.
"She what?" Enishi asked, the malice in his voice enough to make even Kenshin pause. Taking another step further into the office, Kenshin heard Enishi ask, "Why did you let her out?!"
Hei Shin's answer was nothing but a muffled reply as the two men disappeared into the office. Ignoring them, Kenshin dropped to his knees beside Kaoru and simply stared into her calm face. Why? Why had he waited so long to only to have her stolen from him again? It wasn't fair, not fair at all. Gathering her limp form into his arms he hugged her to his chest, burying his face in her hair. Why? Why did this have to happen? She was gone, there was no way the gift could bring her back.
Trying to ignore the soul-crushing numbness threatening to swallow him whole, he hugged her even tighter. He suddenly stilled as a flutter of breath whispered against his shirt. Startled, he released his hold and pulled her back far enough for him to take a closer look at her. It was then he noticed her chest moving ever so slightly up and down. Unable to believe his eyes, he quickly leaned down and put his ear to her chest. He almost laughed when he heard the light thumping of her heart pounding erratically in her chest, her labored breathing coming in strangled gasps. Snapping his head back up, he simply stared at her moving chest and smiled. If she was alive he could save her.
Spurred by the thought, he immediately shifted his attention to the gunshot wound in her chest. The blood drained from his face when he saw the placement of the wound. If he wasn't mistaken, the bullet had either pierced her right lung or it had come perilously close. An icy cold wave of fear slid through his veins as the truth of the situation slammed him dead in the chest; he couldn't take the bullet out. Not without running the risk of killing her himself. And then it hit him, if he got her to the hospital the bullet would be removed and then he could give her that which he'd saved for her all these years. She would live.
Heartened by the knowledge, Kenshin gently laid her back down and jumped to his feet. Reaching down, he gently lifted her into his arms. He tried to ignore the strangled gasp of pain that hissed from between her lips at the movement. Gently tucking her against his chest, he turned to head back the way he had come and swore. Blocking his exit were four of Enishi's men, all of them pointing a gun dead at him.
"Where do you think you're going?"
Kenshin nearly growled at their idiocy, "I have to get her to the hospital. She will die if I don't leave now." When all the speaker did was smile, he took a step towards them, his eyes immediately taking on their amber hue, "Get out of my way!"
The speaker's smile grew slightly and he started to answer," N-"
"Let them pass."
Kenshin nearly jumped as Enishi's voice sounded from behind him. Glancing over his shoulder, he was surprised to see his enemy standing in the hallway with a bloody katana hanging from one fist and a set of keys from the other. And yet, what really shocked him was the look on his brother-in-law's face. It was the unmistakable look of defeat.
He was even more surprised when Enishi tossed the keys over his head to the men blocking his way, "Genbu, drive them to the hospital."
Stunned, Kenshin simply stared at him. Enishi met his widened eyes, a sardonic smirk turned up the corner of his mouth. "I don't deserve her. She's yours now." With that Enishi turned his back on him and headed back into the dojo. A strangled breath brought him back to his senses and he was spurred into motion once again.
Looking to the four men now lining the walls he took off at a fast walk, careful not to jostle Kaoru any more than he had to; the one called Genbu following close behind.
Another labored breath whispered from between Kaoru's lips and he picked up the pace as much as he dared. It was a race against time now. All he could hope was that he was fast enough.
He couldn't let her die. Not again.
oooooooooooooooooo
Sorry about the cliffhanger... but she's still alive. If barely. Anyway, I'll do my best to get the next chap out as soon as I can. With Christmas coming it may take a bit longer but I will do all I can to get it done quickly.
Please review and let me know what you think.