Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction ❯ Happy Valentine's Day, Ruroken-style! ❯ One-Shot

Happy Valentine's Day, Ruroken-style!

 

This one-shot has not been beta'd.

 

Valentine's Day is such a pain… especially for Kaoru who's still suffering lack of Kenshin-attention. This one-shot is based solely on the manga, in other words, I do not recognize the Samurai X: Reflection (aka Seisohen) movie. Also, I refuse to recognize Kenshin cutting his hair. Battousai will not emerge in this story, although that side of Kenshin's personality is mentioned in passing… This short story takes place at the end of Chapter 254, two months after Sanosuke's hilarious departure.

 

Note: The Japanese language is highly flexible and very beautiful. Although I do love mixing Japanese with English to try to keep the story true, I believe there is a limit which can severely decrease a story's enjoyment factor. I decided to ignore Kenshin's changes between his use of “sessha” versus “ore,” although I felt it necessary to keep “de gozaru.” Nevertheless, this story does contain MANY Japanese phrases. I've included a glossary at the end for reference. I apologize to those whom may not enjoy this story due to the intricate language mix.

 

Disclaimer: I do not own, nor claim to own, any part of Watsuki Nobuhiro-dono's creations.

Rated: X

 

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Kaoru awoke late and stretched luxuriously. She sat up in her bed and smiled at the bright sunshine outside. No doubt, Kenshin should've already been up and breakfast was more than likely waiting to be uncovered in the kitchen. Yahiko is scheduled to work at the Akabeko for the day, and later that night, he would be invited by Tae-san to spend the night. Kaoru giggled to herself. Yesterday's lunch certainly had been interesting as Tae-san, Tsubame-chan, and herself chatted away over some tea and sweets…

 

~ Flashback ~

 

“That was when Ayame-chan and Suzume-chan tackled Kenshin. He didn't know what hit him and went face-first into the laundry bucket!” Kaoru related to Tae and Tsubame.

 

“Lemme guess, Kenshin-san's “Oro!” rang out!” Tsubame giggled.

 

“Of course!” Kaoru giggled, with Tae joining them.

 

“Ne, Kaoru-san, with Kenshin-san's skills, wouldn't he be able to predict to predict their attack?” Tsubame questioned.

 

“Hmmm… Kenshin can only predict enemy attacks, so if his assailant has no evil intentions, Kenshin would never see the attack coming.”

 

“Sanosuke would see a non-enemy attack a mile away though…” giggled Tae. “Megumi-san “sparred” with him often enough.”

 

“I wonder how he's doing?” Tsubame asked.

 

“Mou, where ever he is, I'm sure that rooster-head is just fine!” pouted Kaoru. “Speaking of idiots, did you buy something for Yahiko, Tsubame-chan?”

 

Tsubame blushed deeply before answering with a timid, “Hai.” Tae and Kaoru chuckled.

 

“Yosh! Out with it, Tsubame-chan!” Tae happily sang out. Tsubame reached into the shopping bag next to herself and pulled out a box of expensive chocolates and a new pair of rugged zori. Kaoru's and Tae's mouths dropped open.

 

“Honmei-choco? For Yahiko?!” Kaoru exclaimed. Tsubame's blush deepened and flushed to her neck, with another meek, “Hai” in response. Tae, sitting next to Tsubame, happily hugged her.

 

“Maa maa, at least young people's relationships do not sit swaying in the breeze, ne, Tsubame-chan?” Tae smirked evilly Kaoru's way, with the inevitable…

 

“N-NANI?!!!!!!!” Kaoru thundered.

 

“I mean to say, Kaoru-chan, that ever since Kenshin-san rescued you from Enishi, it would seem that life has returned back to normal, minus Sanosuke-san and Megumi-san…” Tae explained softly. Kaoru looked down at her hands in her lap.

 

“It's true… it's been two months since Sanosuke sailed away, and Kenshin… Kenshin…” Kaoru's eyes closed in saddened acceptance. “Kenshin's been through so much hurt and despair; I doubt he will ever gain the courage to approach me, even though I know he wants to…”

 

“But then, Kaoru-san, you should be lucky that tomorrow is Valentine's Day?” Tsubame innocently replied.

 

“Eh?”

 

“What Tsubame-chan means is, since women are the ones required to take the initiative on Valentine's Day, instead of the men…” Tae trailed off. Kaoru looked up, stars bright in her eyes.

 

“I should get a honmei-choco for Kenshin!” she cried out, hugging her fists to the sides of her face. “I know what Kenshin's favorite chocolate is, but… what could I give him with the chocolate?”

 

“Hmmm…” the three women pondered on their tough assignment. Suddenly, Kaoru blushed fiercely red and tried to hide her face.

 

“Oh? I think Kaoru-chan's thoughts might be straying a bit?” Tae teased.

 

“Ah, forgive me. I just thought of what I'll give to Kenshin.” Kaoru said.

 

“Ooooo! So, what will it be?” Tae and Tsubame both leaned in for the juicy idea…

 

~ End Flashback ~

 

Kaoru dressed in a blue kimono, tied her favorite indigo ribbon, and hurriedly polished off breakfast. She rushed through cleaning the kitchen and dashed outside to find Kenshin finishing with hanging the laundry.

 

“Ohayo, Kenshin!” Kaoru greeted him.

 

“Ohayo, Kaoru-dono.” Kenshin smiled back at her. “Was the breakfast still good? You were up late last night, so I didn't want to wake you, de gozaru.”

 

“Did I keep you awake?”

 

“I've never been much of a heavy-sleeper, de gozaru.”

 

“Gomen… ne, Kenshin, what else do you have left to do for today?

 

“Hmmm, I thought I'd make some miso soup for lunch, so I'll go shopping for some tofu, and then the floors need scrubbing, and while you're training, I'll take a bath, then pick up the laundry, and cook dinner…”

 

“Kenshin, I have plans for us today, if you don't mind?” Kaoru asked softly.

 

“Oro?” Kaoru grabbed Kenshin's hand and dragged him into the family room. She closed the outside and inside sliding door. Kenshin looked on, confused as ever.

 

“Kaoru-dono, what is it you have planned exactly, de gozaru?”

 

“Come, sit with me, Kenshin.” Kaoru motioned to the floor-cushion opposite herself. Kenshin looked apprehensive, but kneeled down, nonetheless. His eyes narrowed stealthily at the package beside Kaoru before he returned his full attention to her. Kaoru took a deep breath, composing herself before she began.

 

“Kenshin… Kenshin, are you happy here?” Kaoru voiced softly, looking deeply into his eyes. Kenshin flinched in surprise at the unexpected question.

 

“H-hai, Kaoru-dono, I am very happy here with you, de gozaru. I have finally found my answer.” Kenshin smiled, before noticing Kaoru staring intently at him. He sweat-dropped as Kaoru took another moment of searching his eyes.

 

“Kenshin, do you know what today is?” Kenshin's eyes widened slightly at the question. He thought for a moment and immediately pieced together the date, Kaoru's odd behaviour, and the now-intriguing package at her side. << So she's decided not to wait anymore, however… I need to be sure… >>

 

“Hai, today is February 14th, de gozaru.” Her eyes deflated with his answer. Kenshin studied her reaction carefully. He smiled to himself as she pulled herself together and determinedly continued.

 

“Kenshin, this will sound silly… I just don't know as there are so many experiences you've never had the chance to have, but are you aware of the significance of today's date?” Kenshin smiled genuinely as his thoughts were confirmed. << So then… I should not keep her waiting any longer. >>

 

“Hai, today is Valentine's Day, Kaoru-dono.” Kaoru snapped her eyes back up to his, surprise written clearly for him to see. Kenshin's eyes softened as his smiled widened.

 

“I… I… Ummm…” she stuttered.

 

“Do you have something for me, Kaoru-dono?” NOW, Kaoru was stunned.

 

<< He's NEVER asked me ANYTHING so boldly!!! >>

 

Blushing intensely and unable to voice herself further, she held up her package the short two-feet across the floor separating them. Kenshin took the package and slowly emptied its contents.

 

“Meiji milk chocolate! Arigatou, Kaoru-dono!” Kenshin laid the chocolate to his side and reached inside the bag for the heavier items, and Kaoru's hopes slightly deflated as his happy expression changed to bewilderment.

 

“Citrus musk shampoo? Eucalyptus massage oil? Oro?” uttered Kenshin. Kaoru twisted her hands nervously in her lap.

 

“Hai… I thought you might like the shampoo instead of using just regular soap, and I've seen you rubbing your shoulders after doing the laundry sometimes, sooo…” Kenshin lowered his head, holding the two bottles on his lap. He remained quiet for a moment, before looking back up to Kaoru, his eyes completely serene. << He hates them… >> she thought miserably.

 

“Kenshin, gomen, I thought you might like...” her voice trailed off as Kenshin picked up the chocolate. She watched in trepidation as Kenshin rose from his floor cushion and crossed the two feet separating them, to kneel directly before her, their knees touching. He placed the three items beside them, and gently took hold of her hands in his own. Kaoru's face turned scarlet as she stared flabbergasted at their joined hands. << His hands are so warm… >>

 

“Kaoru… dono” Kenshin called to her, saying the honorific almost as an afterthought. “Arigatou gozaimasu, de gozaru.” He waited for her to say something, anything, but it seemed she had become speechless with his presence so close. Kenshin released her hands and picked up the chocolate. Kaoru watched as he opened it, broke off a small piece, and chewed it thoughtfully.

 

“Ummm, delicious, de gozaru.” He sighed. Kaoru smiled happily.

 

<< Time for more… >> he thought. Kenshin broke off another small piece and held it up to Kaoru's mouth. She gasped, her wide-eyes blinking owlishly at him, before she shyly ate the chocolate from his fingers. He watched predatorily as she chewed and swallowed the confection. Kenshin waited until her eyes fixed on him again.

 

“How do you like the chocolate, Kaoru-dono?”

 

“It's delicious, Kenshin.” She whispered, and watched as he broke off another piece. This time when he put it in his mouth, he allowed the chocolate to simply melt. He closed his eyes, savoring the sugar dissolving on his tongue before slowly swallowing its sweetness. Kaoru watched him, her heartbeat all of a sudden quickening. She felt a familiar warmth pool in her stomach, but couldn't take her eyes off Kenshin's pleasured expression. Kaoru was shocked when Kenshin opened his eyes, light amethyst razors focused solely on her, pinning her in place. << Shin no Ippou? >> she had a moment to think, before he reached for her and gently stroked her cheek. Kaoru kept her eyes on him, sighing in pleasure and leaning into his touch. His thumb teased her bottom lip open, and she wondered how she had missed him breaking the piece of chocolate he now fed her. She chewed once before he held her jaw in place.

 

“Let it melt… it tastes better that way.” Kenshin purred to her. Kaoru blushed as he leaned closer, still stroking her cheek. She mimicked his earlier actions, closed her eyes, and savored the chocolate. She heard Kenshin's sharp intake of breath and quickly looked at him, finding a new emotion she'd never seen in his eyes before, and was unable to define. She anxiously swallowed by reflex.

 

“Kenshin?” she timidly queried.

 

“Daijoubu, Kaoru-dono. Perhaps we should save the rest of the chocolate for another time, de gozaru?”

 

<< Mou, he's pulling away, again. >> Kaoru sighed in exasperation to herself. Kenshin's eyebrow quickly perked in amusement at her obvious disapproval. He chuckled, causing Kaoru to look up at him annoyed. He couldn't help smiling outwardly now…

 

“Kaoru-dono…”

 

“Nani?” she snapped at him.

 

“My shoulders are a bit sore… perhaps you would assist me with using your precious gift?” Kaoru's jaw dropped, and promptly snapped shut.

 

“H… Hai… Kenshin.” Kenshin, still smiling, untied his hair, and precisely re-tied it in a high ponytail. He then turned his back to her and sat indian-style, letting his kimono fall down his arms to pool on top of her lap, removing his stomach bandages and placing them off to the side. Kaoru stared at his back, before her eyes came into focus, studying all of his numerous battle scars. She lightly traced her fingers over some of them, catching herself and quickly removing her hands. Kaoru almost spilled the massage oil as she hadn't noticed when Kenshin had opened it. She smoothed some on her hands and placed them on his shoulders. His muscles twitched at her slight touch. Slowly, Kaoru smoothed the oil over his shoulders and down his back. Kenshin leaned into her hands, thoroughly enjoying her strong, firm strokes. After a long while, she finally felt the knots loosen, and he sighed contentedly. Kaoru had been steadily leaning closer to him, and laid her forehead on his shoulder, her hands flat against his back. Kenshin slowly turned around, and pulled Kaoru onto his lap before she could sit straight up again.

 

“Kenshin!” Kaoru blushed, looking up at him, as he stroked her cheek.

 

“Kirei.” He whispered to her, enjoying the blush which colored across her cheeks, then hugged her snugly to him. Kaoru nuzzled his chest, and slowly wrapped her arms around him. She felt Kenshin rub his nose in her hair and breathe deeply. She looked up at him, questioning him with her innocent eyes. He smiled down at her.

 

“Kaoru…” He said nothing more as he stroked her cheek, the drop of her honorific significant in itself. Kaoru blushed strongly as his head slowly traveled down to hers. Kenshin gave Kaoru enough time to pull away, in case she wasn't ready. His lips ghosted across hers, his breath warm and moist. He pulled back to watch her reaction.

 

“Kenshin.” she breathed out airily. Kaoru leaned up towards him and closed her eyes, silently asking him to continue. He pulled her tighter into his arms, and kissed her lips ever so gently. The kisses soon deepened as the new lovers became flushed with passion. Kenshin's tongue darted out and licked her lips, requesting entrance which she freely gave without hesitation. An eternity later, and all too soon, Kenshin pulled away breathlessly. He ran his hand through Kaoru's hair and reached her ribbon. Bringing his hand back to her cheek, he waited until she was coherently staring into his eyes. Thinking to further test her resolve, he slowly stroked back up her cheek and through her hair once more. Kaoru gasped as he grabbed one end of her hair ribbon and swiftly pulled, releasing the raven waves to cascade over his other arm and down her back. Kaoru held her breath as he rubbed her silk ribbon over his cheek and nose, inhaling deeply. He laid her ribbon to the side and gazed into her eyes once more.

 

“Kaoru.”

 

“Hai.”

 

“You know the things I am guilty of in my life…” he placed a finger on her lips to silence her instant protests. “You know that I will continue to atone for my sins…” Kaoru grabbed his hand and held it to her chest.

 

“Kenshin, the day we came home from Kyoto, you said, “Tadaima” for the first time in thirteen years… on that day, my doubts disappeared.” Kenshin smiled. << So she figured it out… >>

 

“Oro? Why was that, Kaoru?” he asked bemusedly.

 

“Baka.” She smiled lovingly up at him. “On that day, you became a rurouni no more. After all, rurounis do not have homes, do they?” she giggled at him. Kenshin hugged her closely.

 

“Maa… I suppose not.” his eyes returning her smile. Kaoru cuddled deeper into his chest, nuzzling her face into his neck. Kenshin startled as he suddenly felt her shy, butterfly kisses on his neck.

 

“Kaoru, there is the other matter...”

 

“Nani? What other matter?”

 

“I have nothing to offer you…” Kenshin had no warning as Kaoru's eyes suddenly blazed.

 

“KENSHIN NO BAKA!”

 

“OROOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!” Kenshin's head tilted to the side, the bump emerging from the side of his head apparent.

 

“I know your faults, perhaps not all of them, but certainly most of them! I didn't fall in love with you for money or power! I fell in love with you because you are you, Kenshin! I love all of you, your few faults AND your numerous strengths!”

 

<< She's in such a huff; she has no idea the truth she just revealed. Kawaii. >> Kenshin smiled outwardly as he laughed within.

 

“Kensh--!” Said person grabbed Kaoru's chin and delivered her the most impassioned kiss of her dreams. The kiss became more heated as Kaoru's hands roved up and down Kenshin's back, Kenshin's hands following hers. They slowly came apart this time as Kenshin pulled away. Curiosity getting the better of him, Kenshin reached for the shampoo. He opened the bottle and smelled it, surprise showing on his handsome face.

 

“Very masculine!” he exclaimed.

 

“Of course! I didn't think you'd appreciate smelling like a flower!”

 

“Kaoru, I've already used two of my three presents…” Kenshin smirked. “I think it's time to use the third…” Kaoru's smile fell. She sighed and stood up, her back to him.

 

“I'll heat the bath for you…”

 

“There's no need; I had already prepared the bath earlier.” Kaoru suddenly turned around as she heard fabric drop. Kenshin had pulled his kimono out from his hakama and dropped it to the ground. The blush returned to Kaoru full force as Kenshin reached for the shampoo and stepped closer to her.

 

“Kaoru, you look like you're burning up, perhaps some fresh air might help?” he teased her, caressing her hand as he led her outside and towards the bath house.

 

“Kenshin?”

 

“Nani, Kaoru-dono?”

 

“Kenshin, I've never seen your hair in a ponytail? And you did it up so quickly and perfectly, with no mirror?”

 

“There weren't exactly mirrors out in the middle of forests, de gozaru. I did it without thinking, de gozaru.” They reached the bath house and Kenshin guided Kaoru inside, closing and locking the door behind them.

 

“Nani? Middle of forests?”

 

“Most of the Ishin Shishi and Bakufu secret meetings were not held in cities. That would expose them as easy targets for hitokiri, de gozaru. Hmmm, come to think of it, I never got to use mirrors back then, de gozaru. I would look at my reflection in water, de gozaru.

 

“So then, this is how you wore your hair… back then?” Kenshin removed his tabi and zori. Kenshin's face, hidden by his hair as he bent over, saddened at the unbidden pain associated with so long ago.

 

“Hai, de gozaru.” Kenshin placed the shampoo on the edge of the bath and moved to stand in front of Kaoru. Kaoru surprised him out of his anguished reminiscing when she stepped forward and suddenly ran both of her hands through his hair, bringing the tie down with her fingers. She tucked the tie thoughtlessly into her kimono sleeve, and then ran her hands through his hair again, enjoying the feel of luxurious red silk. The past quickly forgotten, Kenshin bent his head down, basking in her attentions.

 

“Kenshin…” she growled at him.

 

“N-nani, Kaoru?” he squeaked as his eyes shot open.

 

“Mou, you're too tall!” she smirked at him. Kenshin laughed out loud joyously. Kaoru couldn't help herself and crushed her arms around his waist. Kenshin happily embraced her, kissing the top of her head. Kenshin tilted her chin up for another dazzling kiss.

 

“Kaoru… your hair is down, but you still appear flushed. Perhaps less clothing might help?” Kaoru blushed as Kenshin suddenly kneeled in front of her, removing her tabi and zori and rested them beside his own. Unable to help himself, he tickled the underside of her foot, causing her to giggle. He continued to tickle her, causing Kaoru to fall forward and lean on him for support.

 

“Mou Kenshin! You're in for it now!” Kaoru dropped to her knees and tickled Kenshin's sides, laughing merrily as Kenshin broke down into fits of laughter.

 

“Aaaaah ha ha ha ha, stop, stop, de gozaruuuuuuu!” Kenshin laughed merrily.

 

“Aha! I've found it! The weakness of the legendary Hitokiri Battousai! He's… TICKLISH!” and with that said, Kaoru launched an all-out tickle attack on Kenshin, which he happily reciprocated. They both ended up in a laughing pile with Kaoru lying on top of Kenshin. Kenshin smiled devilishly at her.

 

“Mou Kaoru, it's not fair, you have many places to tickle on me, but I have the disadvantage on you, de gozaru.” he pouted cutely.

 

“Oh, and what will you do to even the odds in this battle?”

 

“Hmmm… I could dooooo… this!” Kenshin showed Kaoru her obi. Kaoru gasped and looked down, seeing her kimono partially open perfectly for Kenshin's view. Kenshin pointedly stared at her cleavage while massaging her waist, waiting for the inevitable explosion, which would happen in three, two, one…

 

“Mou, Kenshin no hentai!” Kenshin smirked as he threw the obi out of sight and quickly rolled over so that he was on top of Kaoru.

 

“Hai, Kaoru-Koishii…” Kenshin purred out in her ear, causing a rush of blood to her body, her new nickname echoing in her ears. Kenshin relished Kaoru's quick intake of breath as he kissed her ear and suckled the lobe.

 

“Aaaah, Kenshin…” Kenshin froze instantly, hearing the slight distress strain her voice.

 

“Kaoru?” She was blushing madly, with apprehension in her eyes.

 

<< Kenshin no baka, she's not ready yet… >> he chided himself, preparing to move off from her.

 

“No, wait!”

 

“Kaoru-dono, forgive me… ITAI !!!!!” Kenshin exclaimed as Kaoru grabbed a fistful of his hair and pulled his head back down to hers.

 

“Kenshin!”

 

“Oro?!”

 

“Kenshin, I am ready, but I… “ Kaoru swallowed nervously. Kenshin rose, taking her with him, until they were standing, still embraced. She startled as she clearly felt his hardened manhood press hungrily against her bare stomach through his hakama. He gently stroked her hair and back.

 

“Kaoru, we have all the time you need… this does not have to happen today…” he trailed off looking down at her eyes. She stared back entranced. << What was it Megumi-san had said once? Leaving a man in this state is almost worse than death? >> Looking into his eyes, she finally understood the barely-checked desire, mixed equally with love, pouring out, just for her. Kenshin noticed a dramatic change in Kaoru's eyes before she pulled out of his arms.

 

“Kaoru-dono?… Daijo--, orooooo…?!!!” Kenshin stuttered as Kaoru's kimono and juban landed at her feet. Kaoru took a few deep breaths, her entire upper body flushing beautifully with her nervousness. Kenshin stepped closer to her.

 

“Kaoru.” he whispered. She took one more deep breath and looked up at him. << He's… panting? >>

 

“Kami…” Kenshin uttered, praising her beauty. He stepped flush to her and kissed her deeply, with all the love he has for this woman. Kenshin wrapped his arms around her waist and held her close, her soft breaths tickling his neck. Kaoru sighed deeply.

 

“Anata?” Kenshin sucked in a quick breath at his new nickname, blushing as he let it go slowly and lazily nuzzled her neck.

 

“Hai, Koishii?”

 

“Your hakama's chaffing my stomach.” Kaoru chuckled. “Here, let me help you…”

 

Kenshin could only stare as his sweet, innocent Kaoru deftly untied his hakama, letting it drop to the ground. He chuckled as she blushed, his prominent manhood pointing straight out from his loincloth. Kenshin removed his loincloth and tossed it on their pile of clothes.

 

“Ne, Kaoru, I think your gift would smell nicer if it was in my hair, de gozaru.” She looked up at him, smiled as he took her hand, and led her to just outside the tub.

 

“Kenshin…” she growled playfully.

 

“Hai, de gozaru?” he smiled back.

 

“Mou Kenshin, don't make me repeat myself… You're too tall!”

 

“Hai, hai!” Kenshin laughed and sat down on a bathing stool. Kaoru filled a bucket with warm bath water and doused Kenshin with it. ** Insert picture of Kenshin looking like a drowned rat, oh ho ho ho ho ho hoooo! **

 

“Mou, Koishii, I think you enjoyed that far too much, de gozaru.” he pouted up at her. Kaoru laughed at his sulking expression as she pulled up the other bathing stool behind him and using one leg, kneeled down on it for balance. Kaoru poured some of the citrus musk shampoo into her hands, massaging it thoroughly through Kenshin's hair. Kenshin moaned at the pleasant sensations. Even when Kaoru had washed his hair to her satisfaction, she continued to massage his scalp, running her hands through his hair and removing any knots found. She sighed, taking pleasure in the delightful sounds issuing forth from him.

 

“Kenshin, I'm going to rinse your hair now.” she warned lovingly, before doing so until all traces of the shampoo were gone. Kenshin stood up and took the bucket from her.

 

“Saa, your turn, Koishii.” he smiled, repeating her actions with her favorite jasmine shampoo. Once her hair was thoroughly rinsed and finger-combed, he massaged some soap in a warm, moist washcloth. Starting at Kaoru's neck from the back, he briskly washed her back and arms, reaching to the front to wash her breasts and stomach. Kaoru felt her anxiety return in full force when he started, but it resided as he washed quickly and politely with no sexual advances. He poured a bucket of water on her, making sure all of the soap was gone.

 

“Koishii, please stand up so that I may continue, de gozaru?” Kenshin requested softly. Kaoru nodded and stood up, Kenshin still at her back. He refreshed the soap on the washcloth and finished washing her legs, and just as quickly and efficiently, her private parts. Kaoru wondered in amazement where her nervousness had gone as he washed down there. Kenshin took two buckets, rinsing her back and front.

 

“In you go before you catch a cold, Koishii.” Kenshin grabbed up Kaoru, bridal-style, and placed her sitting on the tub's edge. She got up and lowered herself into the water, watching as he washed himself exactly as he had her. Kenshin was nervous from her scrutiny of his body, but he didn't want to make Kaoru more anxious than she already was. He quickly finished cleansing himself and slowly lowered into the water beside her.

 

“MAA! This feels wonderful, de gozaru! The massage oil and shampoo were perfect gifts, de gozaru!” exclaimed Kenshin as he stretched out his arms above his head. Kaoru could only stare at his chest, watching his taut muscles pull beneath his soft, scarred skin. Kaoru was so busy staring at his chest, she missed the mischievous twinkle in Kenshin's eyes…

 

“Eeeee-yaaaah! No, no! Stop, stop! Mou, Kenshin!” she cried out, giggling endlessly as Kenshin showed her no mercy with his laughing tickles.

 

“Hiten Mitsurugi Ryuu… Tickle of Death!” giggled Kenshin along with her.

 

“Mou Kenshin! Don't make me use the Kamiya Kasshin Ryuu Hawatari on you!”

 

“Ooooo?” Kenshin grabbed her into his arms and pulled her between his legs. “The Kamiya Kasshin Ryuu Hawatari is no match for any Hiten Mitsurugi Ryuu technique.” He smirked at her evilly.

 

“Sou ka?! Himura Kenshin, I challenge you to a spar!” Kaoru's sparked anger instantly arousing Kenshin, he suddenly turned her front towards him, snatched her chin and forcefully kissed her breathless.

 

“A spar?” he silkily moaned at her.

 

“H-hai.” She managed to pant out after the few moments it took to retrieve her senses.

 

“Ummm, a spar sounds… interesting. But not today…” That snapped Kaoru back to reality.

 

“Oro? Kenshin? You… just agreed to spar? With me?” She blinked.

 

“Hai…” he rumbled sensually in her ear. “It poses some… practice… that we could indulge in.” he chuckled at her bewildered look.

 

“Nani? Practice for what?” Kaoru looked so cute with her innocent question. Kenshin gave in to his desire and gently cupped Kaoru's right breast in his left hand. He stroked and molded her breast, plunging his tongue deep into her mouth's recesses, tasting as much of her as he could. Kaoru writhed in his arms, torn between the two new, intense sensations. He released her and turned her back around, hugging her securely to his chest and relaxing down into the water. Kaoru sighed as Kenshin nuzzled her ear before resting his chin on her shoulder and closing his eyes. They lay together relaxing in the intense heat for quite a few minutes, until Kaoru noticed something different. She nudged her backside against him, confirming her suspicions.

 

“Kenshin?”

 

“Nani?”

 

“Ummm, I'm enjoying how this feels and all, but I was wondering, ummm, why you're, ummm…” Kenshin opened his eyes to observe another shy blush overtake Kaoru.

 

“Why I'm…?”

 

“Well, ummm, when you took off your hakama, mou I can't talk about this!” Kenshin laughed and kissed her cheek.

 

“Are you saying you CAN talk about this with someone other than me, de gozaru?”

 

“NO!” Kaoru shouted indignantly.

 

“So then, after I took off my hakama, why I'm…?”

 

“You feel… soft… but you had looked, ummm, hard…” she managed to squeak out.

 

“Aaaah, that changes with my emotions, de gozaru.” Kenshin nuzzled her cheek before standing up and assisting Kaoru.

 

“Changes with your emotions?” She looked down to take in his now flaccid member.

 

“Hai, de gozaru.” Kenshin towel-dried her hair and body, then retrieved a ready yukata. He helped her into the yukata before drying and dressing himself. Kaoru giggled when he turned back to her. He tilted his head in wry amusement, taking her hand and leading her out of the bath house back to the living quarters. He noticed her staring at his hair.

 

“Nani, Koishii?”

 

“I've never seen your hair wet while down. You reminded me of one of those pictures of a lion's mane. Now if you brought out Battousai's amber eyes, the picture would be complete…” Kaoru broke off into a fit of giggles. Kenshin locked up the house as he listened amused to her hilarity.

 

“I'd rather be called a lion than all of the things Misao-dono called me when we first met, de gozaru.” Kenshin laughed as he led Kaoru into his room, locking the door behind himself.

 

“NANI?! What did that damn weasel-girl call you? I won't forgive her!” Kaoru's cheeks puffed out in her instant rage. Kenshin ignored her usual storm and prepared their futon.

 

“Maa, it was nothing, Koishii.”

 

“Kenshin! Tell m--!” Kaoru's tirade turned speechless as Kenshin faced her and dropped his yukata to the floor. She stared as he made himself comfortable under the blanket.

 

“Koishii, it's growing a bit chilly outside, perhaps you'd like to warm up under the blanket, de gozaru?” Kaoru continued to stare in shock.

 

“Yareyare, I never thought I'd see the day you lose your tongue, Kaoru-Koishii.” Kenshin teased.

 

“AARG!!!!! KONO YAROU!!! How dare you be so presumptuous!!!”

 

Kenshin genuinely laughed outright at her outburst. He flipped the opposite corner of his blanket down for her, patting the futon. Kaoru pouted in her tantrum, crossing her arms and turning her nose up in the air.

 

“Oro?” Kenshin raised his eyebrow amused at her display. << She's so easy to tease… >>

 

“Ah, well, that bath was so nice, I think I'll take a nap now before going shopping, de gozaru.” He laid down on his back, pulled the blanket up to his chest, and closed his eyes, completely relaxed. Kaoru gaped at him.

 

“You… you're… ignoring… me…” Kenshin's eyes shot open at the VERY loud growl suddenly next to him, just to shut them as quickly lest he lose any eyelashes to the pillow Kaoru smashed directly on his face.

 

“ORO!”

 

“Kenshin no baka!” Kenshin barely managed to remove the pillow before Kaoru's fist was the next incoming attack. Kaoru huffed in rage as Kenshin easily caught her first punch, and then her follow-up punch. She didn't realize her mistake of kneeling for her attacks, and Kenshin used her momentum to knock her flat on her back, still holding both of her fists. She looked up to see him securely pin her body to the futon with his own.

 

“Mou, Kenshin no baka, get off me!” Kenshin sighed as he saw she was truly angry this time, using her small fists to heave her up sitting chest-to-chest with him. He tightly bound her hands at the small of her back with his left-hand, and used his right-hand to lift up her stubborn chin.

 

“Kaoru-dono, look at me.” Kenshin requested. Kaoru refused by keeping her eyes closed shut.

 

“Kaoru, please look at me, de gozaru.” Kaoru was in the full-swing of her temper.

 

“Mou, there's no way you're going to sweet-talk me, Kenshin!” She ground out. He let go of her chin, and sighed sadly.

 

“Koishii, I've never had the chance to learn how to “sweet-talk” in my life…” Kenshin said quietly, then he laid them both down on the futon, embracing Kaoru and raising the blanket over them up to Kaoru's neck. He nuzzled his face into her hair, breathing deeply, and closed his eyes to go to sleep. Kaoru, finally calmed down, realized how foolish she'd been acting, and that she had hurt Kenshin in her brief fury.

 

“Gomen nasai, Kenshin.” Kaoru whispered. Kenshin opened his eyes, but remained silent. “I hate when I get angry… I say things without thinking, or things that I don't really mean.” Kenshin breathed deeply but decided they'd had enough play for the day. He gave a quick squeeze to Kaoru and closed his eyes resigned to a nap, when he felt a tear fall on his shoulder. He startled in surprise and rose up on his elbow to look down at Kaoru, whose face was still buried against his chest.

 

“Gomen nasai, Kenshin. If anyone was presumptuous, it was I. I assumed you would accept my honmei-choco. I assumed that you have the same feelings for me, as I have for you. I assumed you wanted me, the way I dream of you wanting me. Gomen.” Kenshin forced her chin up and delivered their most impassioned kiss yet. When they broke for air, Kenshin gave Kaoru only a moment pant for breath, before kissing the air out of her.

 

“Kaoru, it's not really presumptuous when the object of your desire returns your affections equally, if not more than dreamed of, de gozaru.” He stated once he had regained his own breath. Kaoru opened her eyes at Kenshin in surprise.

 

“Kenshin…”

 

“Koishii, just as you accept everything about me, both the good and the bad, I do the same for you. I share your dreams, of living the rest of our lives together, de gozaru.” New tears formed in Kaoru's eyes, which Kenshin kissed away.

 

“Maa, enough of that, Koishii, now you have a decision to be made.” Kenshin's eyes twinkled in happiness.

 

“Oro? Nani, Kenshin?”

 

“Well, we could either cuddle up and take a nice nap, or… considering our current indignity…” Kaoru finally noticed her compromising position, her lying with her yukata half open, Kenshin lying completely naked half on top of her… on his futon… in his room… with the room and house locked up… alone. Kenshin chuckled and stroked her cheek as her blush returned in full-force. He bent down to nibble lightly on her earlobe.

 

“Saa, which will it be, Kaoru-Koishii?” Kaoru felt the heat in the pit of her stomach flare to an inferno, clouding her thoughts, as Kenshin kissed and suckled his way down her neck to her collarbone. He gently caressed the underside of her breast and stomach through her yukata. Kaoru turned her head giving him easier access, as he used his nose to slightly push the yukata further down, revealing more skin for him to taste. He continued on for a bit, enjoying the slight noises she made, before lying still on her neck, his breath warm against her bare skin. Kenshin looked up to meet her glazed eyes. He smiled for her.

 

“Kaoru.”

 

“Hmmm.”

 

“Kaoru.”

 

“N-nani, Keeenshin?” He shivered as she purred out his name, causing him to moan out loud.

 

“I need to know, are you sure? You're not married… the consequences…” Kaoru silenced his protests with a passionate kiss of her own.

 

“Kenshin, I'd hardly call them consequences, unless… you're not planning… on staying…?” Kenshin silenced her with his finger on her lips.

 

“This is not the way I was planning to do this, but, since neither of us can no longer wait… Kaoru, would you take this penniless rurouni as your husband?” Kaoru sucked in a sharp breath, joy utterly overwhelming her.

 

“No.”

 

“Oro?!” Kenshin's mouth gaped in shock, his eyes wide. Kaoru giggled at him and stroked his cheek. “I will take a penniless rurouni-no-longer to be my husband, forever.” Kenshin let out the breath he had been holding, and embraced his soon-to-be wife with all of his love. He noticed the slant of sunlight from his windows.

 

“Kaoru-dono, Yahiko should be returning from the Akabeko soon, and lunch is nowhere near ready, de gozaru.” He said in concern.

 

“No need to worry… do you really think I managed to plan out Valentine's Day by myself?” Kenshin quirked an eyebrow.

 

“Oro? How many people are aware of this plot, de gozaru?” he asked her suspiciously.

 

“Only Tae-san, Tsubame-chan, and myself.” She grinned up at him, shifting slightly to embrace him closer, bringing more of his body to bear weight on her own. Kenshin's eyes narrowed as he predictably deduced her ploy.

 

“Yahiko's not coming home tonight, is he, de gozaru?” Kaoru smiled devilishly in answer. “However, that still leaves us without lunch or dinner, de gozaru?”

 

“Kenshin, why was it you couldn't clean the kitchen this morning?” asked Kaoru mischievously.

 

“You slept in late, so there was no point cleaning the kitchen twice, de gozaru. I moved on to the laundry instead… aaaah, sou ka… you went to bed late and woke up late on purpose, to prevent me from cleaning the kitchen…”

 

“And discovering our hidden lunch and dinner, courtesy of Tae-san and Tsubame-chan.” Kaoru grinned like a Cheshire cat, peeling delighted laughter from Kenshin.

 

“I really had no hope of escaping today, did I, de gozaru?”

 

“Nope! Not a chance!” Kaoru laughed with him, and cuddled herself into his chest. Kenshin gently threaded his fingers through her hair, enjoying their closeness.

 

“Kaoru, are you hungry, de gozaru?” Kaoru lazily looked up into his beautifully dark, amethyst eyes.

 

“No, are you hungry, Anata?” Kenshin sighed happily at his new nickname, stealing a quick kiss.

 

“Hai, I'm starving.” Kaoru frowned thinking he meant for food, but Kenshin kissed and suckled the frown away. “I've been very hungry for a long, long time, Koishii.” He gazed longingly into her innocent eyes, which still hadn't registered his true meaning. He moved his hand on top of her collarbone, submerged in her eyes as he slowly pushed the yukata off her shoulder.

 

“Kenshin.” she whispered, before sitting up, tugging the yukata off and throwing it on the floor. Kenshin, still on his elbow, hugged her waist before she could lie back and down and suckled her right nipple, teasing the other with his fingers. Kaoru moaned, dipping her head back, her hair tickling his right hand on her back. She heard Kenshin sniff the air, breathing deeply, and felt the warmth become a wetness between her legs. She realized he could scent her arousal, and that heightened her own.

 

Curiosity getting the better of her, she pushed the blankets down to their knees. Kenshin's manhood was slowly rising.

 

“Kenshin?”

 

“Hmmm?” as his mouth was busy worshipping her chest. She smirked, barely able to keep coherent thought.

 

“What emotions are you feeling right now?”

 

“Oro?” Truly puzzled, Kenshin stopped his ministrations to gaze up at Kaoru. “Why do you ask, Koishii?” She pointed, giggling at his member with her eyes.

 

“Ooooh, sou ka… perhaps you'd like a closer look?” Kaoru almost had a heart-attack as she fell flat on her back, mouth gaping open, anime-style. << HER innocent rurouni just asked her that?!!! Although, looking into his eyes right now, he's not looking too innocent… he's looking like… like… shimatta! >> Kenshin smirked seeing she recognized his change.

 

“Ne, Kaoru, you did say you accept ALL of me… both my light, as well as my dark…” Kaoru stared into his illuminated, amethyst eyes, their tinted-lightness signaling the almost-transition of the Battousai.

 

“Kenshin, I thought when you mastered the Amakakeru Ryu no Hirameki, that the Battousai disappeared?”

 

“No… As Jinei said, a hitokiri will always be a hitokiri, and Battousai will always be a part of who I am, de gozaru. However, that part of me, Battousai, will always remain hidden deep inside, never to resurface again, de gozaru. Does this frighten you, Koishii?” Kaoru relaxed in his arms.

 

“No, I've seen your “new step” and I know Battousai will never return. But Kenshin, why this almost-transition?” Kenshin chuckled darkly. “Because, at this moment, I am closest to my true self, rather, closest to the core of my kenki.”

 

“Eh? Your kenki?!!! But, why?” Kaoru asked in utter surprise.

 

“It's very simple, de gozaru. Aishiteru, Kamiya Kaoru.” Kaoru gasped, flattered at how deeply Kenshin's feelings run for her… all the way to his kenki...

 

“Kenshin.” she whispered.

 

“White Day may be one month away, however, I think it's more appropriate if we celebrate it now. Don't you agree?”

 

“But what gift would you have for me so quickly?” asked Kaoru, completely baffled. Kenshin let her look deep into his soul, giving her everything.

 

“Myself.” He said softly. Tears forming anew, Kaoru pulled Kenshin down into a tender embrace, pulling back to gaze into his eyes lovingly as she gently soothed her hand over his cheek. He kissed her shyly… sweetly.

 

“Kaoru.” he whispered over her lips. Kaoru gently pushed his bangs aside, Kenshin leaning into her touch. She guided him back to her lips, chaste kisses resounding in the air with butterfly wings. He sighed, breathing in her scent, as their kisses slowly lost their innocence. Kenshin trailed his lips' caresses down her chin, and all around her neck, drinking in her sighs of pleasure. His hands took on a life of their own, his left-arm still balancing himself and under Kaoru, his right journeying from her neck, down between her breasts, drawing circles on her stomach. Kaoru held him to her, her right hand firmly entrenched in his hair, her left setting his skin on fire.

 

Kenshin slowly brought his hand back up to just under her breast, still circling with his hand, before circling around her breast. Kaoru arched, reaching for an unknown satisfaction, stealing Kenshin's breath. He replaced his hand with his mouth, kissing, biting, suckling all around her nipple, never touching it.

 

“Kenshin.” she moaned, fueling his desire. He switched to her other breast, still ignoring her hardened nipple. When she cried out his name again, he suddenly took her nipple in his teeth, sucking hard. Kaoru arched further, pressing his head to her chest, unknowingly moaning for more. Kenshin shifted, moving one knee between hers and rebalanced himself, freeing his previously trapped hand. He bit and teased the first, ignored nipple, while pinching and squeezing the second. Kaoru took in deep gulps of air, unable to control the sounds she made. Without warning, Kenshin stilled and laid his head between her breasts, panting hard. She slid her hand through his hair.

 

“Kenshin, daijoubu?”

 

“Koishii, I want to make your first time special, de gozaru.” She smiled and combed her fingers in soothing motions.

 

“I want this to be special for you as well, Anata.” Kenshin looked up at her.

 

“I haven't done this in a long time, de gozaru.” Kaoru giggled.

 

“And I've never done this, so it seems we're in the same boat, ne?” Kenshin smiled.

 

“I don't want it to end too soon, and… it will hurt... this first time.” he said, drinking her lips before kissing his way down her stomach.

 

“I trust you, Anat--… Ah!” Kaoru gasped as Kenshin's tongue made love to her navel. He continued further down on his journey, and Kaoru felt the growing ache increase ten-fold. He kissed right up to above her core desire, and followed a side trek down her legs to her toes.

 

“Mou! Kenshin, don't tickle me!” Kaoru's giggles returned as Kenshin lightly scraped his nails on the soles of her feet, chuckling impishly. He kissed where he had tickled, drawing his tongue up the middle of her foot, sending an intense shock of pleasure up her leg to her center. She cried out, writhing, when he took her big toe into his mouth, caressing it with his tongue. He worked his way back up her leg, where he again passed over her weeping need and down the other leg.

 

“Kuso!” Kaoru's frustration rang out. Kenshin leered at her rare curse as he paid homage to her skin on his way back up. Kaoru, unwittingly, had spread her legs wide for him by the time he'd centered himself, her fingers clutching spasmodically at the futon cushion beneath them. Kenshin leaned over her, breathing in her unique scent, his breath igniting a blaze for Kaoru. He could hold himself back no longer as she arched her hips up to his lips, where he followed her back down with his tongue. Tears of pleasure leaked from Kaoru's eyes at the impossible sensations he stirred within her. He carefully brought her to her first climax, screaming his name. Before her climax had finished, he drew his tongue up her middle, then delved into her depths, searching for more pleasurable sounds he could draw from her. He rose back up and focused his tongue on her core, while inserting a finger into her depths, finding her pleasure center. Her head twisted from side to side, as he inserted a second finger, stretching and teasing her. With the third finger, he sucked hard, wringing another screaming climax from Kaoru.

 

Her climax had only just begun when he quickly drew himself up and plunged into her depths with his god-like speed. Kaoru shrieked her pleasure for the world to hear, still in the throes of her climax, the pain of penetration completely masked by her orgasm. Kenshin collapsed on top of her, fighting against his own orgasm as her waves crushed him within her. He wanted to wait for her to adjust. However, Kaoru had always been impatient, and having felt no pain bucked up into his hips.

 

“Kaoru!” Kenshin's surprise and strain could be heard as he trembled from the effort of staying still over her.

 

“I'm ready… Kenshin… Anata… make me yours!” Kaoru panted out. Kenshin's body became steel as he pulled out, ramming himself back in, Kaoru's body jolting with the power of his thrusts. Kaoru held on for dear life as Kenshin wholly ravaged her, driven by her shrieks of ecstasy. Abruptly, he stopped, breathing hard on her shoulder, hugging her fiercely to him as he tried to calm his raging heart.

 

“Kenshin?” she questioned quietly.

 

“Forgive me… Koishii... it's been… too long, de gozaru.” She gently turned his head to her and claimed his lips in a loving kiss. They shared a few moments of fondness before Kenshin experimentally moved, Kaoru moving with him. He began again, slowly creating a crescendo of pleasure for his love. Sweet kisses exchanged, caresses over skin, hands swept through hair, all the while the inferno raged where the lovers were joined, boiling as it strained for its roaring conclusion. Kaoru's legs moved of their own accord, holding his waist close. Kenshin felt her nearing her completion, and sharply changed the angle of his thrusts. Her high-pitched pants took on a soprano's range before her true voice rang out together with his…

 

“KEEEEENSHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIN!”

 

“KAORUUUUUUUUUUUUU!”

 

The plateau apexed, seemingly without end, sweet darkness swiftly following, claiming them both…

 

~ February 15 ~

 

“Ohayo, Kenshin-san!” Tae greeted.

 

“Ohayo, Tae-dono! Are you looking for Kaoru-dono, de gozaru?” Kenshin smiled from the laundry rack. Tae looked around suspiciously. Kenshin released his kimono sleeves, tucking the tie back inside a sleeve.

 

“Hai, is she in the dojo?”

 

“Actually, Kaoru's not feeling too well today so I'm afraid she's unable to take any visitors, de gozaru.” Tae narrowed her eyes at Kenshin, causing him to gulp in panic.

 

“Kenshin-san!”

 

“Hai, de gozaru!” Kenshin answered nervously. The wind suddenly shifted, blowing across Kenshin's back toward Tae. Tae smelled the shampoo and stared him down. << Hmmm, he didn't say -dono… >> Her eyes twinkled dangerously.

 

“O-oro? Is Tae-dono upset about anything, de gozaru?” Kenshin shrank back from Tae's looming presence. Tae scrutinized Kenshin for another moment. Just as he started looking for a quick escape route, she burst into a bright smile.

 

“Yareyare, it seems you two won't be able to cook for a while. I had a feeling you'd be needing this.” She handed Kenshin a large package.

 

“Oro? Tae-dono, this is a lot of food, de gozaru! We can't accept this, de gozaru!” Tae turned her back on Kenshin and walked up to the gate.

 

“Nonsense, of course you can accept that, as well as the rest of the week's food. Besides, you'll have to keep up your energy somehow for the next few days. How else do you expect to keep pace with a blossomed woman eleven years your junior, Kenshin-san?” Kenshin blushed ten shades of red.

 

“Tae-dono… is calling me… an old man?” Kenshin stammered, dumbfounded.

 

“Mou, Kenshin-san, you ARE 28 years old… faaaaar past the prime of your life! You may still look the same age as Kaoru-chan, but remember your libido isn't what it used to be ten years ago!!!”

 

Kenshin froze, all his color drained, then fell over… “Orooooooooooo!”

 

“I'll keep Yahiko at the Akabeko for the rest of the week… You two enjoy the temporary peace.” Tae laughed as she closed the dojo gate behind her, leaving poor Kenshin shell-shocked on the ground… still oroooo'ing…

 

~~~~~~~~~

 

Kenshin smiled as he walked back inside and packed away the food. Noticing some sweet-cakes in the mix, he took a piece to his bedroom. Kaoru was sprawled under the blankets, her carefree slumber melting Kenshin. He gently shook her awake. She turned to look at him from under her lashes.

 

“Ohayo, Anata.”

 

“Ohayo, Koishii. Look what Tae-dono brought for us, de gozaru.”

 

“Sweet cakes, how nice!”

 

“Hai, and food for the rest of the day, de gozaru.” He sat down next to her on the futon.

 

“Kenshin, is this breakfast in bed?” Kaoru giggled as she took a bite of the cake. Kenshin only smiled at her, savoring the sugary sweetness. He got up to place the plate on his dresser, before lying down and drawing her into his arms.

 

“Ne, Koishii… does the difference in our ages bother you, de gozaru?” Kenshin questioned nervously.

 

“Nani? No, we're both adult-age, well, you far more so than me, but no. Besides, you act more my age than your own… Why?” Kaoru asked puzzled.

 

“No reason, no reason, de gozaru!” Kenshin sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. Kaoru eyed him suspisciously.

 

“Kenshin, what did you tell Tae-san?”

 

“Ah hehe, um, that you're not feeling too well today, de gozaru?” he squeaked out.

 

“Mou, Kenshin!”

 

“Maa maa, it's only been one day and I'm already jealous for your attention, Koishii.” Kaoru laughed out loud.

 

“And what will you do when Yahiko comes back?”

 

“Aaaah sou ka! We'll just have to compete man-to-man for your attention!” The lovers laughed, relishing each other's warmth. Kenshin enveloped Kaoru further into his kimono, wrapping her in his love, rurouni no longer…

 

~ Owari ~

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Author's clarifications: As this is only fiction, I took the liberty of ignoring certain facts which obviously will not correlate with my story.

 

Facts:

* Meiji Chocolate came into being around 1917. (Yup! Meiji is a real company, and they really do make chocolate, amongst many other products.)

* Japan did not start celebrating February 14's Valentine's Day until about the 1920's. Opposite to the USA, it is the female whom is expected to give a gift to the male. There is excellent detail, with further links, about this unofficial holiday at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Day and http://japanesefood.about.com/cs/holidays/a/valentinechoco. htm.

* In order to balance the one-sidedness of Valentine's Day, Japan also celebrates White Day on March 14, where men may reciprocate the gifts given to them back on Valentine's Day.

 

[ There are some words I purposefully left out of the glossary, such as rurouni. If you're reading this fiction, and are unaware of what that word means, I sincerely request you obtain a subbed (aka subtitled) version of at least episode one of Rurouni Kenshin… ]

 

Glossary:

-san = an honorific pronoun suffix addressed to someone whom is older, or is a stranger

-chan = an honorific pronoun suffix addressed to someone whom is younger, or equal to, in age, or for friends

-dono = an honorific pronoun suffix addressed to someone of important standing… Kenshin uses this over-excessively in connection with his Kenjougo use of sessha

Aishiteru = I love you

Anata = in this story, a term of endearment usually used by the wife

Arigatou = Thank you

Arigatou gozaimasu = Thank you very much

Baka = idiot

Daijoubu = “It's ok.”, “Are you ok?”, “Everything will be alright.”

De gozaru = an obsolete phrase of extreme politeness added to the end of sentences, roughly translated to “that it is”

Gomen = I'm sorry

Gomen nasai = I'm very sorry

Hai = yes

Hakama = traditional Japanese pants which resemble a wide, pleated skirt

Hentai = sexual pervert

Honmei-choco = gifts of chocolate, along with any special material item, given to the man a woman is either in love with, or simply loves, on Valentine's Day in Japan

Itai = an exclamation, “ouch!” or “that hurts!”

Juban = undergarment worn beneath kimonos

Kami = God

Kawaii = cute

Kenki = “the air of a sword”… not the kind of air you breathe, but a swordsman's physical spirit, the source of his power projected outwardly into a physical appearance and/or manifestation

Kimono = traditional full-length garment of Japan

Kirei = beautiful

Koishii = a term of endearment usually used by the husband

Kono = difficult to translate to English, slightly similar to “very”

Kuso = curse for “Damn!”

Maa = an exclamation to soothe a conversation, or calm someone down

Mou = geez

Nani? = What?

Ne = equivalent to a softly spoken English “hey” or “is that right?”

Obi = Japanese belt which holds kimonos closed

Ohayo = Good Morning

Ore = “ I “ (typical brash male pronoun)

Oro = an exclamation, only slightly similar to the English “huh?”

Owari = Japanese traditional way of ending stories, “The End”

Saa = an exclamation similar to the English word “so”

Sessha = this humbled one

Shimatta = curse for “shit!”

Sou ka = “Is that so?” or “I see”

Tabi = Japanese split-toe socks

Tadaima = “I'm home.”

Yareyare = an exclamation made in exasperation, relief, annoyance, or disappointment

Yarou = a “catch-all” curse with many uses such as asshole, bastard, jerk, son-of-a-bitch, etc.

Yosh = an exclamation, slightly similar to the English “Alright!”

Yukata = a very light kimono worn to bed

Zori = Japanese sandals