Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction ❯ Love and Vengeance ❯ The Final Battle ( Chapter 1 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: Kusara 
Anime/Manga: Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Samurai / Martial Arts / Adventure / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 11.19.2015 | Pages: 11 | Words: 7.5K | Visits: 299 | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Samurai / Martial Arts / Adventure / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 11.19.2015 | Pages: 11 | Words: 7.5K | Visits: 299 | Status: Work In Progress
Greetings! This
is my first foray into the wonderful world of Rurouni Kenshin. I
love this manga, anime, and now live action series and felt it was
time to create something that reflected this love. This story will,
however, follow the movie universe and my plan for this story is to
encompass an adaption for the Remembrance and Jinchuu Arc in said
movie universe, which some people may or may not like. Perhaps it
is rather ambitious and I don't know if anyone, besides me, is
interested in reading such things, but it is my hope that many will
enjoy the concept that I have in mind.
Note: This first chapter starts off with the movie scene in The Legend Ends as Shishio falls to the deck of the Rengoku, choking on his own blood as his body is starting to overheat and Yumi tries to stop Kenshin from attacking the bandaged hitokiri. If you have not seen the movie, you really should because they freaking rock! Also, I own nothing related to Rurouni Kenshin. If I did, this one would not have to work 12 hours shifts.
A simple little word list used in this first chapter: noto- Art of sheathing a blade zori- sandals tabi-Socks worn with sandals yoshi- Excited or enthusiastic way of saying okay or yes. shishou- Master
Chapter 1-The Final Battle
“Please stop!” Kenshin lifted his gaze away from the collapsed and choking form of Shishio, eyes shifting to the lithe female in white that raced towards them. The woman dropped to her knees, reaching out to touch the writhing man briefly before she rose, arms spread wide as she stood protectively in front of the fallen assassin. “If Lord Shishio fights any longer, he will die. Please...” She pleaded. “Please have mercy Himura-san.” The rurouni studied the dark haired female, recalling that her name was Yumi, visions flashing in his mind of a different lady in white, arms outstretched, trying to protect the one she cared about, her dress stained crimson by the lethal slash of his own blade. His scar burned suddenly and the red head hesitated, lowering his sakabato, paralyzed as he relived the memory, eyes widening as a blade burst violently through the girl's upper left side, piercing straight through the right side of Kenshin's chest. “You've dropped your guard, Battosai...” Shishio growled. “This battle isn't over yet!” Kenshin gasped as Shishio retracted the sword in a quick and fluid movement, blood exploding from the devastating injury inflicted by the Mugenjin. Shock flashed across the rurouni's bruised and bloody features “Shi.. shi... o...” He croaked out as his vision began to blur and his head spun. “You killed... her.. without any.. hesitation... You would... betray... those you love... so easily?” Disbelief was laced in his voice as his knees gave way and he collapsed. The red head struggled to maintain consciousness, his right side burning with each intake of air as his body fought for breath. He felt his life fading as the blood poured from the massive wound and he dropped his forehead on the wooden deck of the Rengoku, struggling to overcome the pain that racked the entirety of his body. “Betray her, you say?” Shishio growled as he stood, sweeping Yumi into his arms. “Don't judge me using your stupid morals.” Kenshin lifted his head with great effort at the taller man's words, watching as Shishio stumbled over to the stairs that led to the Rengoku's captain's quarters, laying Yumi down before turning to face the smaller man. The rurouni's body screamed for rest, his muscles protesting under the strain of numerous cuts, burns, stab wounds, and bruises. It would be so easy to just give in to the pain and fade away into nothingness. His brow furrowed at the sudden notion of dying, recalling the words of his shishou. You have killed... depriving many people of their lives. The burden of guilt causes you to want to avoid the weight of life. To overcome this, you need only to understand the awareness of survival... in the fear of death you felt just now. Fear of death... Kenshin repeated silently, the image of his friends, of his master, and of his Kaoru-dono flashed before his eyes and his heart felt a desire to protect and to save... and to return to the one most precious to him. I want to return to her... I want to return to Kaoru-dono... I have to tell her... I have to see her... but I cannot see her if I die... So I must not die... I will not die... I will not die HERE! He rose on shaky legs, strengthening his mind, ignoring the searing pain that rolled like a tsunami over his entire being, his will superseding his physical limits as he glared over at his hitokiri successor. I cannot let Shishio win. I must stop him... I will stop him... For Japan's sake... For my friends sake... For Kaoru-dono's sake... I will end this now! “Ken...shin...” The rurouni heard the weakened and pained voice of Sanosuke calling out from under a pile of broken storage crates and he kept his gaze on the panting form of Shishio as he replied in as comforting as voice as he could manage, “Rest now Sano... it will be alright... I will finish him.” “Let's end this... Battosai!” Shishio snarled, rushing forward towards the smaller warrior. Kenshin drew power from his will, features morphing into an look of fury as he let out a roar and lunged forward, meeting the taller man in the middle of the deck, swinging his sakabato in precise arcs, driving Shishio back. The bandaged hitokiri was forced to parry, countering each strike, sliding his blade along the ground, flames shooting out as the body fat within the deadly teeth of Mugenjin ignited and he lashed out, slashing and burning the rurouni who ignored the pain, rolling along the ground and back onto his feet in one smooth motion. The red head pressed his attack, the two combatants blades striking simultaneously, the force knocking them down to the ground in opposite directions. They rose, stumbling forward, meeting again in the center, Kenshin landing several strikes though they did little to bring the larger man down. Shishio retaliated, using his brute strength to hit, strike, and grab at the smaller man, causing Kenshin to be on the defensive and he jumped back from the wild diagonal upward slash from the Mugenjin as it was consumed by fire. The rurouni tried to catch himself as he fell forward but his arms gave way and he collapsed onto the deck, panting as his body began to shut down. He lifted his tired head, brown eyes fixed on Shishio as the hitokiri fell down then rolled onto his back, a gush of blood erupting from his mouth as he struggled to overcome the tremendous heat roaring in his veins as he was pushed to his limit. Kenshin frowned as the bandaged lunatic began to recover, slowly rising, anger filling him as Shishio grinned and taunted out, “Get up, Battosai!” Bastard. He growled inwardly, pushing off the ground, crying out in anguish as he fought to rise, arms shaking violently from the pain, blood splattering onto the deck from the strain on the open wounds but still, he rose to his feet, glaring at the larger fighter. Kenshin snarled as he raised his sakabato and rushed forward. He slashed at Shishio's midsection as he was struck again by the fire blade though the red head whirled around, racing forward with a speed that only he possessed, wrapping his arms around the bandaged warrior as he tried to tackle him onto the ground. The rurouni winced as Shishio drove an elbow into his back, countering by switching the sakabato into his left hand, swinging as hard as he could in an upward slash. Kenshin leaped back, striking Shishio directly into the side of the head, driving him sideways only to stumble as the taller man grabbed his red kimono and yanked him forward, head butting him twice. Kenshin fought off the wave of dizziness from the blows to his forehead and switched the hilt of his sakabato back into his right hand, slashing up, striking Shishio in the head once more. The rurouni kicked and whirled around, his desire to defeat and stop the madman driving him forward and he landed a hit to Shishio's side and back. The smaller man used his superior speed to assault the bandaged lunatic in a barrage of quick strikes, pivoting around, feeding power to his arm, slashing sideways, slamming the blade into the taller man's back, forcing him to stumble. Kenshin then charged forward, blinking as Shishio whirled around him, pivoting, coming to stand behind the rurouni and the taller man swung wildly, slashing upwards, Mugenjin aflame, serrated teeth biting into the already bruised and torn flesh on the red head's back. The rurouni stumbled but caught himself, slowly turning around, blood streaming down the right side of his face, the pair of them exhausted from the fight, both laboring to breathe as they paused their battle. “Shishio...” The red head began, struggling to overcome the fatigue and pain radiating throughout his nearly broken body. “The hitokiri life we experienced during the revolution has ended... even though the government created... from those chaotic times... is far from perfect.... this... is a new era... an era of peace...” “You're wrong...” Shishio growled, lifting his sword “So long as I hold the Mugenjin in my hand, I will wage war on the Meiji Government... and bring chaos to all of Japan!” He swung down violently, dragging the tip of the blade along the deck of the Rengoku, igniting the flame as he held it up into the air. Stubborn and foolish! Kenshin growled inwardly, clenching his jaw as he leapt forward, lashing out in a series of quick strikes, hitting Shishio directly in the chest then back as he whirled around to face the bandaged lunatic, the bigger man's cries of pain signaling that he was finally wearing down. The rurouni's eyes lost focus for a second, his own body on the verge of giving out. But I cannot rest yet... not yet... not until I make him understand the truth. “It has ended...” He countered, lifting his gaze to look at the bandaged features of his opponent as he pointed his sword at Shishio. “Since I held this Sakabato...” “Then let's end it,” Shishio growled, holding the Mugenjin in an attacking position. “This is the final battle between you and I... Battosai...” Kenshin bent low, lifting his blade, turning it, executing the noto, grimacing in pain as he fought off the urge to pass out, turning the hilt of his sword slightly, the metal clicking as the guard struck the scabbard, the sakabato now sheathed. He let go of the hilt, hand outstretched, taking a battojutsu stance. For a few seconds, neither man moved. Now! Kenshin's mind screamed and he unsheathed his blade, racing forward, slashing out, driving Shishio back, the taller man countering as the full blade of Mugenjin burst into flame, swinging in a downward angle to strike the red head. But Kenshin was quicker, re-sheathing his sakabato, stepping forward with his left foot, drawing the sword out in in a lightning fast motion, swinging the blade in a violent and powerful upward sweep, striking the Mugenjin, breaking it, the force of the attack slamming into the chest of Shishio, lifting him off his feet, driving him several feet into the air and he tumbled down, landing onto his back with a sickening thud near the stairwell. Kenshin remained in his final position, blade still outstretched to his right as he spoke in a strained voice. “Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu Ougi, Amakekeru Ryu No Hirameki.” Blood spurted out of Shishio's mouth as he rolled to the side, the broken hilt of the Mugenjin still clenched in his right hand as he began to laugh. The rurouni lifted his head, studying Shishio in surprise. That blow carried all the power I had left in my body and he's still able to get up? Is there nothing I can do to stop this lunatic? Kenshin's eyes widened as steam began pouring out from beneath the bandages wrapped around the fallen man's form. His gaze met Shishio's, frowning at the manic gleam in the taller man's eyes. You truly are mad, aren't you? “It seems... fate chose you, Himura....” Shishio said between his laughter, tossing the broken hilt aside as he turned, pulling Yumi into his arms, cradling her as he climbed up the steps on shaky legs. “But... I don't have... time... to play anymore with you... I still have a country... to take over...” Kenshin watched as he reached the top, laying Yumi down as he turned to face the red head. “We'll meet again, Himura... in hell...” Shishio grinned, his breathing ragged, flames suddenly bursting around his body as he began to combust from overheating. The hitokiri's laughter echoed throughout the interior of the Rengoku, mixing with the ear shattering explosions as the ship was bombarded by cannon fire from the shore, the assassin's laughter morphing into cries of pain, Shishio's madness dying with him as he was incinerated by the flames of his own body. Kenshin's gaze remained focused on his nemesis as he watched him die, voice soft and fatigued. “Sayonara, Shishio....” The adrenaline rush from battle was gone, replaced with pain and weariness and the rurouni lowered his sakabato, sheathing it, legs giving way as he collapsed to his knees. “Kenshin!” Sano's voice cried out and the red head felt the brawler's hands lift him gently. “Sano...” Kenshin murmured, leaning heavily into the taller man. The battle was over and he was glad but his heart was still troubled. “I will be alright... that I will... but...” He paused, brow furrowed as his head was bent low, his thoughts shifting to the one most precious to him. “This one wants to see, Kaoru-dono...” “Kenshin...” Sano replied, looking over at his best friend. The rurouni was a mess, bloodied and beaten and he wondered if the swordsman had been hit in the head too many times to remember what the fighter had told him. “I told you Kaoru was okay on the beach, don't you remember?” A small smile tugged at Kenshin's lips, voice soft as he replied, “Yes, I remember... but this one wants to see Kaoru-dono with his own eyes.... that he does...” The brawler heard the shift in the smaller man's speech pattern, returning to his polite persona and he smirked a bit. “I'll bet...” Another series of explosions slammed into the hull of the ship, causing Sano to stumble forward, nearly dropping Kenshin and the brawler looked over as the police officer named Saito rose to his feet, his stern features fixed in look of urgency. The former leader of the third squad of the Shinsengumi focused his gaze on the rurouni, the brawler, and the interloper called Aoishi. “We have to get out of here, now!” “Right!” Sano said with a nod, walking quickly out the side door that lead to the deck, frowning as he felt Kenshin slump against him. “Kenshin?” He murmured, looking down, finding the rurouni's eyes closed. “Hang on, Kenshin... I'll get you back to the shore... I'll get you back to Kaoru... don't worry!” He vowed, reaching up to cover the swordsman's face and head from the projectiles that exploded around him, the ship beginning to list to the side. The boat that had taken them to the Rengoku waited down below and the four of them climbed down with some effort, boarding the wooden vessel, Sano moved up front, sitting Kenshin down before joining him as as the policemen began to row rapidly away from the sinking ironclad warship. Kenshin's eyes fluttered open, reaching down to grab his scabbard, pulling it up, resting it against his seated form,eyes a bit blurry as he spoke. “Sano?” “Yeah?” The taller man asked, looking over at his friend in concern. “It's over now... this whole thing is over... I can go home with Kaoru-dono... and live in peace...” The brawler's brow furrowed. Is he talking to me or trying to reassure himself? “You can live in peace now, Kenshin... No one can take that peace away from you.” A wistful smile tugged at his lips. Peace. I've wanted that for so long. But why do I feel like it won't be that simple? Hekept his head bowed low, worn out as the small wooden boat grew closer to shore. Every breath hurt now. The aches and pains from battle were pressing down on his bruised, battered, and broken body yet he would not submit to the darkness that threatened to draw him into unconsciousness. I must stay awake. I must stay awake so that I can know with my own eyes that Kaoru-dono is alright. I will not let the darkness take me...That I won't. His gaze lifted as the bow of the boat slid into the sandy coastline and he rose on shaky legs, handing his sakabato to Sanosuke as the brawler helped him step down. His zori sunk into the wet sand, the water washing over his tabi socks, soaking them, but he cared little in that moment, his eyes focused on the beautiful girl in white that raced towards him, his name whispered like a prayer from her lips as she cried out, “Kenshin!” His heart soared at the sight of her, relief filling his tired soul, his eyes confirming the certainty that she was alive and well. “Kaoru-dono...” He whispered, looking over to her as she came and wrapped an arm around his waist, taking his left arm and crooking it over her neck, supporting him, lending him her strength and he felt the weight of his battle lift, replaced by a warmth that soothed his wounded body. He wanted to tell her so many things in that moment. You are the light that tempers my darkness. You are the one who took me in, even after learning I was Battosai. You are the one who cared nothing for my past; only about my future. You are the one who told me you wanted to spend time with me, laugh with me, eat with me, and relax in the peaceful era with me. This one loves you for all that. I love you for your sweet smile, your idealism, your bravery, and your soul. Sweet Kaoru-dono, I love you. That I do. Kaoru looked at the rurouni with relieved eyes though her heart hurt at the sight of his wounded body. Oh, Kenshin, look what Shishio did to you. She reached out, wrapping an arm around his waist, taking his left arm and crooking it over her neck, wanting to comfort and help him. “I'm so glad you're alive, Kenshin. I've been so worried about you.” The rurouni lifted his head, seeing the concern in her lovely features. With the threat over, the red head felt safe in telling her the truth in explaining his fear for her... I must share this with her while I'm still conscious. “Kaoru-dono... this one is so sorry... so sorry for everything... When Shishio kidnapped you... I wanted to save you... I tried to save you... When that man... kicked you off the ship... I was... terrified of never seeing you again... this one failed you that night... but seeing you alive... here at my side... I feel... such happiness in my heart...” He paused, a fierceness in his voice that belied his tired features as he whispered “I will not let anything happen to you again, that I won't...” She felt heat on her cheeks at his confession, studying the rurouni with surprised eyes. He was terrified of never seeing me again? Me? Her pulse quickened a bit, the closeness of him, even though he was so very wounded, made her insides flutter. Still, Kaoru wanted to ease his concern and she whispered back in a strong but gentle voice. “I am not some delicate flower that wilts under the barest rays of the sun, so you need not worry so, Kenshin,” She replied, features softening as she added, “And do not blame yourself for what happened because I don't blame you, either. I know you were trying to protect me... that you were trying to save me... I didn't care about myself in that moment, Kenshin... I wanted you to live on... I wanted you to be strong... to live in this new era... free from your past...” She paused, whispering. “And I survived... I survived to find you... you are alive and that's all that matters to me.” The rurouni was surprised at her words, favoring her with a tender smile as he leaned heavily into her. “Kaoru-dono... hai... I'm alive... and so are you... that is all that matters to me...” He returned, moving with her as the girl began to walk forward, his smile falling when she stopped. “What is wrong, Kaoru-dono?” He asked, lifting his head to follow her gaze, finding the Home Minister of Japan, Hirubomi Ito marching towards them, Police Chief Kawaji to the bearded politician's left, a squadron of police behind the pair. “Congratulations are in order! You all did well today!” Ito called out, stopping several feet from the rurouni and his allies. Sano glared at the politician, not liking the man at all. You arrogant prick, you're the one who tried to kill us all and you have the balls to stand here in front of Kenshin acting like it's no big deal! “Bastard!” The brawler growled, stalking through the sand towards Ito. “We didn't do this for your damn government!” Kenshin heard his friend's indignation and anger, understanding his motivation and feelings towards the politician and the Meiji Government. But if you hit Ito-san, they will throw you in jail or kill you on the spot. “Sano...” The red head called out, his voice soft, nearly pleading in it's tone. The fighter stopped, looking over at his best friend, seeing the worried look in his eyes. Man, Kenshin... this guy is bad news... but I guess you know that, otherwise you wouldn't look so upset... so I won't push it... for now... Sighing, Sano tossed a heated glare at the politician before reluctantly returning to stand next to Yahiko. The rurouni kept his gaze on the Home Minister, voice firm as he spoke. “Shishio is dead. Are you satisfied now?” Ito smiled slowly, nodding. “I see... Yes... Japan is safe now... Right Kawaji?” He said, reaching out to pat the Police Chief's right shoulder. “Y.. Yes.. that's right...” Kawaji replied, feeling a bit of unease around the man who had ordered the bombardment of the Rengoku, while the battle between the wanderer and the bandaged lunatic was still ongoing. Kaoru listened to the conversation, moving forward when she thought it was over, stopping again as Ito shouted out, “And Battosai is also dead... along with the remnants of the revolution...” Kenshin frowned, worry seizing his heart, unsure of the bearded man's words. What are you up to Ito-san? Is nearly killing me with the shelling of the Rengoku not enough for you? Ito kept his gaze on the rurouni as he spoke, his voice softening a bit. “Your name is Kenshin... Himura... right?” There was no threat in the politician's voice, but rather an acknowledgment that the red head's hitokiri past was dead as he was called by his regular name. I am just Kenshin Himura now... Just Kenshin... His features shifted to surprise as the Home Minister shouted out, “Salute the heroes!” The police officers snapped to attention, saluting the rurouni and his allies who looked around in various shades of confusion or irritation. “Kenshin?” The sweet sound of Kaoru's voice drew his attention back to her, his heart lightening as she murmured, “Let's go home...” Home. He repeated with a gentle smile. “Hai... Let's go home, Kaoru-dono...” The rurouni leaned into her, doing his best to ignore the pain that exploded throughout his body with each step. Kaoru kept her hold around the red head's waist, helping him navigate through the village on the shore of Tokyo Bay, brow furrowed at how slow their progress was. At this rate, it will be nightfall before we reach the dojo. Her gaze shifted to study the wanderer's features, her brow furrowed at his unsteady steps as he shuffled along beside her. I know you're hurting and tired, Kenshin. and I'm sorry that I have no other way to get you back home. “Kamiya-san!” The brown haired girl stopped at the urgent sound of a young male's voice, blinking as a lanky police officer rushed past her, pivoting around to face her. “Kamiya-san,” He repeated, slightly out of breath as he gave a slight bow of his head, introducing himself. “My name is Akio Hakata, I am a police officer under the command of Chief Kawaji,” The officer in blue began. “He sent me to offer his thanks for Himura-san's bravery and to escort you to his carriage so that he and his friend may return home quickly to receive proper medical treatment.” Kaoru was hesitant at first, still a bit shook up from all that had happened. And I don't trust anyone in power at the moment. Still, the officer was young and earnest and she could sense nothing dubious about him or his offer. “Alright,” She replied with a nod. “We accept your offer. Lead the way, officer Hakata.” The police officer gave a slight bow of his head once more, turning to face the road that led out of the village and Kaoru followed him, guiding Kenshin along, frowning at how much heavier the wanderer felt and she looked over at the red head. “Kenshin?” “This one is fine, Kaoru-dono...” The swordsman replied in a tired voice. “I just need to rest a bit... that I do...” “Do you want to stop and take a few moments?” Kaoru asked. “No... I can continue on Kaoru-dono...” Kenshin said softly. “The carriage ride is a generous offer, that it is, and I do not want to delay officer Hakata-san from his other duties.” Kaoru couldn't help but smile a bit at his selflessness. You worry about everyone don't you, Kenshin? Even those you've never even met. She guided him along and over to the carriage, watching as the young officer opened the door for them. The brown haired girl reluctantly loosened her hold around the rurouni's waist, helping him step up and inside, following behind him, taking a seat to his left, Sano and Yahiko climbing inside next, sitting opposite of the wanderer and the girl. Once everyone was inside, officer Hakata carefully shut the door then instructed the driver to head to the Kamiya dojo with great haste. The carriage began to move, the interior rocking back and forth as it picked up speed and Kenshin felt fatigue slam into his remaining senses. The threat was over. Japan was safe. Kaoru-dono was safe. And this one is tired... so tired... His eyelids grew heavy, sleep calling his name and he answered, passing out as his head fell sideways, right onto Kaoru's shoulder. Kaoru blinked as she felt Kenshin's head resting on her shoulder and she turned her gaze sideways, blushing a bit though worry was on her lovely features as she studied his bruised and bloody face. Whatever had happened on that ship had been intense and violent. The damage done to the rurouni's body was visible and her heart hurt at the physical trauma Kenshin had received from such a vicious fight. But what about the trauma to his heart and his mind? What scars would he carry from his battle with Shishio? The words of Megumi came back to her then. An injury in time will heal, but multiple injuries add up, taking a toll on a person's body... and this isn't Ken-san's first battle. There are more than just physical wounds that could kill him. I want to help him to heal. Her mind whispered, acknowledging what her heart wanted and already knew. I want to help him move on in this peaceful era and to know I care about him. Her features shifted, becoming tender as she reached out and gently clasped his hand. I will help you, Kenshin. I will be here for you. Always. I promise. The carriage continued on, weaving through the streets of Tokyo, coming to a stop outside the Kamiya dojo and Kaoru turned to Sano who spoke, “Kenshin looks whipped. Do you want me to help get him inside?” “No offense, but you're looking rather beat up and tired yourself, Sanosuke. I can handle Kenshin.” The brawler quirked an eyebrow, flinching when Yahiko nudged his side with his elbow. “Hey kid, what was that for?” He growled, looking over at the boy who whispered, a slight grin on his lips, “Kaoru's got Kenshin handled... Let her have her fun while she can...” Kaoru's eyes narrowed. “I heard that Yahiko...” The dark haired boy's grin fell and he sighed. “Come on, Sano, let's get you inside so Megumi-san can fix you up.” At the mention of the doctor's name the brawler smirked and nodded. “Yoshi!.. let's go, Yahiko...” He rose excitedly, despite his shaky legs, waiting for the boy to open the door and exit the carriage before following, stepping down as the boy helped keep him from falling. Kaoru was surprised at the enthusiasm in the fighter's behavior as she watched the two males leave. Usually he growls and throws his hands up at any medical attention from Megumi. Could it be that he... “Hey, Kaoru, are you going to just sit there all day or what? Kenshin needs help too, you know...” The brown haired girl turned her gaze over to Yahiko. As much as she loved the boy, his teasing of her in regards to Kenshin frustrated and irritated her to no end. You'll be doing extra katas for that later, Yahiko. She vowed, tossing him a dark look as she shifted the rurouni forward, wrapping her arm around his waist, rising up, nearly dragging him as she made her way to the open door, turning sideways, carefully stepping down, not wanting to fall and injure the red head further. Even for his small frame, he was still difficult to move. And with him passed out, I have to do all the work to get him inside. Crooking his arm over her neck she walked with slow steps up to the door that led to the dojo, entering behind the fighter and her student, the voice of Megumi floating on the wind as she cried out, “Sanosuke!” The doctor raced over, looking at the fighter with worried eyes, visually assessing his injuries, relieving Yahiko of the burden of helping Sano walk, escorting him up the step and into the closest room. She helped the tall man sit down then turned, her gaze focused on Kaoru as she dragged an unconscious Kenshin into the small yard. “Ken-san!” She ran down, helping the dojo instructor as the two women lifted the rurouni up over the step and into the next room. Laying the red head down, the ladies rose, Megumi addressing the smaller girl as she spoke. “Kaoru, I'm going to heat up some water and gather bandages and healing salves. What I need you to do is remove Ken-san's clothing so that we can inspect then clean his injuries.” Kaoru blushed. “You want me to strip Kenshin?” She squeaked out, frowning at how high pitched her voice went. “What's the issue? You've been around men most of your life, you should know what they look like naked,” Megumi replied in a clinical voice, too worried about the two men to ease the girl's discomfort. “Besides, I'm not asking you to remove his loincloth so stop being a child and help me out.” Kaoru glared at the older woman but complied, watching the female doctor leave before turning her gaze back down to the unconscious rurouni. Sorry about this, Kenshin. She said silently as she knelt down, sitting lotus style. She reached out, hesitating at the knot of his obi before untying it, carefully tugging the kimono up and out of his hakama pants. The dojo instructor rolled the swordsman onto his side, gently lifting his arm, sliding the material off his shoulder before repeating the process on the other side. She tugged the kimono out and lay it to her right, her gaze falling on his bare torso and her breath caught in her throat, her hand lifting to cover her mouth in shock, tears springing in her eyes as she studied the extensive damage done to the rurouni's body. Oh, Kenshin... She cried silently. How did you survive all this? There were numerous cuts, burn marks, and bruises along his chest and a rather nasty stab wound in his upper right pectoral muscle that still bled and on the left side of his neck... was that a bite mark?! She leaned forward, disbelief in her features, her gaze shifting back to Kenshin's face as his head moved, freezing as she suddenly found the rurouni's confused eyes looking up at her. Kenshin was drawn into the realm of consciousness by the sensation of gentle hands removing his clothing, the air caressing his bare skin and his brow furrowed when his nose caught a faint trace of jasmine. I know this scent... it's... His eyelid's fluttered open and the rurouni blinked slowly, vision clearing, studying the features of the brown haired girl, noting her look of panic and he croaked out, “Kaoru-dono?” “ I was just taking off your clothes...” Kaoru blurted out and the rurouni's eyes widened at her statement as he sounded out, “Oro?” Kaoru saw the surprise in the red head's eyes and winced at the connotation of her words, quickly correcting herself. “That is, Megumi told me to help get you out of your clothes so that she could assess your injuries.” Kenshin gave her a tired smile, understanding on his handsome features. “Ah... this one thanks you, Kaoru-dono. I am sorry... you have to see me... like this...” “Eh?” The dojo instructor replied. “Like what, Kenshin?” “Cut up... bloodied... wounded...” He turned his gaze to the side, features falling as he murmured, “This one wanted to come back to you strong and safe... so that you would not worry... but I... fought too hard... and ended up like this...” “Kenshin...” Kaoru whispered. “That you came back to me alive is all I ask for. I was terrified for you, Kenshin. I tried to reach you on the beach but I couldn't get past the barrier. And when I saw you take off... I wanted to find you... to let you know I was okay... but you were gone... you left for that ship... and I feared I would never see you again.” The rurouni turned his gaze back to her, features softening as he listened. Kaoru bit her lip, lowering her gaze, clutching the fabric of her pants. “Then you returned... hurt... in need of help... and I wanted to help you, Kenshin... I want to help you get better... so whatever you need of me, ask and I will do what I can to make you healthy again.” Beautiful Kaoru-dono, that you care about me helps me more than you could ever know. He thought but could not voice. Not yet, anyway. It is not the right time and I don't want to frighten her away with my feelings. Instead he asked softly, “Will you help me to heal, Kaoru-dono?” Kaoru lifted her head at his question. Why did such a simple statement make her heart flutter so? It sounded... personal... almost... tender... and she favored him with a warm smile. “Hai, Kenshin. I will help you heal.” Her smile lifted his spirit and her eagerness to help his broken body mend made him love her all the more. “Thank you, Kaoru-dono... This one is so very happy to have you at his side.... that he is...” He whispered. Kaoru felt heat on her cheeks at his words, smiling shyly as she lowered her gaze, lifting it at the sound of Megumi's voice as she called out, “Ken-san, you're awake. This is good.” The female doctor entered the room, carrying a bowl of water and a cloth towards the rurouni, crouching down to sit the two items beside Kaoru. “Please wash the blood off his wounds, Kaoru, while I tend to Sano's injuries.” She instructed then rose, heading back towards the room when Kenshin asked, “Megumi-dono, is Sano okay?” The female doctor turned, a bit of a smile on her face. “He's covered in contusions and has some broken ribs but he's a stubborn ox so he'll be just fine, don't you worry.” Kenshin smiled at the description of his best friend. “Thank you, Megumi-dono.” The doctor gave a slight bow of her head, looking over at Kaoru, making a subtle motion of her head towards the red head before pivoting around and returning to Sanosuke's side. Kaoru blinked but turned her gaze to Kenshin who struggled to sit up. “Kenshin, stop! Let me help you!” She cried, shifting as she reached out, gently helping him into an upright position. The girl grabbed the towel, dipping it into the hot water, ignoring the heat as she wrung out the cloth, steam rising off her reddened hands. With great care Kaoru began to clean the blood and grime off Kenshin's face, casting a gaze more than once over to the right as she heard Megumi's voice rise, chastising the fighter as he growled and bickered with her. Those two are quite the pair. She thought with a bit of a smile. The wanderer also caught the sound of his friend's voice arguing with the lady doctor and he chuckled a bit inwardly as he closed his eyes, holding still as Kaoru wiped away the caked crimson fluid on his features, finding the warmth of the cloth as comforting as the closeness of her, his voice low but soft. “Kaoru-dono?” “Hmm?” She sounded, gentle in her motions as she cleaned his skin, finding him even more handsome up close. “That feels nice, that it does.” She blinked but smiled. “I'm glad, Kenshin,” She whispered, her gaze lowering to the wounds on his torso, her smile faltering as she murmured sadly, “Shishio really hurt you, didn't he?” Kenshin's eyelids fluttered open, brow furrowed as he watched the girl begin to clean each injury on his chest. “It was... a struggle to beat him, Kaoru-dono. He would not give up... He was...” He paused, wondering how to describe the severity of their fight. “Mad... sick in the heart... and in the mind... that madness... gave him great strength... and this one's body paid the price for fighting him.” The red head focused his gaze on the girl. “But Shishio is gone now. This one should not have to fight anyone for a good long while.” “I don't want you to have to fight, Kenshin... I want you to rest... and have peace... you've earned it... more than anyone you have earned to right to live your days without the threat of death hanging over your head.” Kaoru whispered, her gaze still cast downward as she slowly withdrew and turned, dipping the towel into the bowl, the once clear water turning red as she wrung out the cloth then shifted, moving around to clean the long diagonal cut on the wanderer's back and the exit wound caused by Mugenjin near his right shoulder blade. Sweet Kaoru-dono. His mind whispered, his expression hopeful as he silently voiced his wish. I want to believe that. I want to believe I can live my life in peace. With you. I want that more than anything. That I do. He remained still as the girl finished cleaning his injuries and Megumi came back into the room, assessing his wounds, giving him a powerful sedative to dull the pain as she set to work on sealing up his open injuries, putting salve on his burns and on the open stab wound that would take a long time to heal. His injuries were then wrapped up in bandages and the doctor rose, looking over at Kaoru as she addressed the younger female. “He will need lots of rest and you will want to watch over him to make sure infection doesn't set in.” Kaoru gave a slight bow of her head. “Thank you, Megumi. I will do as you suggest.” The female doctor studied the girl for a moment before returning the bow of her head and exiting the room. The brown haired girl rose, grabbing a pillow and a blanket, returning to the rurouni's side as she knelt back down. “You heard Megumi, Kenshin. Time to rest.” She whispered, gently helping him to turn to his side and lay down. Kenshin went as he was guided, his mind a bit dulled by the sedative and his head rested on the pillow, a smile on his face as the girl covered his weary form with a blanket. “Thank you, Kaoru-dono. For everything.” He whispered, closing his eyes as he fell into the arms of sleep, dreaming of a new era... with the one most precious to him. Okay, first chapter completed. Do please leave a review to let me know if you liked it or not. And if anyone has a tumblr account you can find me at blueeyedshuichi.tumblr.com or Musings of a Kitsune where I post all kinds of stuff that interests me as well as snippets of my own writing from various stories.
Note: This first chapter starts off with the movie scene in The Legend Ends as Shishio falls to the deck of the Rengoku, choking on his own blood as his body is starting to overheat and Yumi tries to stop Kenshin from attacking the bandaged hitokiri. If you have not seen the movie, you really should because they freaking rock! Also, I own nothing related to Rurouni Kenshin. If I did, this one would not have to work 12 hours shifts.
A simple little word list used in this first chapter: noto- Art of sheathing a blade zori- sandals tabi-Socks worn with sandals yoshi- Excited or enthusiastic way of saying okay or yes. shishou- Master
Chapter 1-The Final Battle
“Please stop!” Kenshin lifted his gaze away from the collapsed and choking form of Shishio, eyes shifting to the lithe female in white that raced towards them. The woman dropped to her knees, reaching out to touch the writhing man briefly before she rose, arms spread wide as she stood protectively in front of the fallen assassin. “If Lord Shishio fights any longer, he will die. Please...” She pleaded. “Please have mercy Himura-san.” The rurouni studied the dark haired female, recalling that her name was Yumi, visions flashing in his mind of a different lady in white, arms outstretched, trying to protect the one she cared about, her dress stained crimson by the lethal slash of his own blade. His scar burned suddenly and the red head hesitated, lowering his sakabato, paralyzed as he relived the memory, eyes widening as a blade burst violently through the girl's upper left side, piercing straight through the right side of Kenshin's chest. “You've dropped your guard, Battosai...” Shishio growled. “This battle isn't over yet!” Kenshin gasped as Shishio retracted the sword in a quick and fluid movement, blood exploding from the devastating injury inflicted by the Mugenjin. Shock flashed across the rurouni's bruised and bloody features “Shi.. shi... o...” He croaked out as his vision began to blur and his head spun. “You killed... her.. without any.. hesitation... You would... betray... those you love... so easily?” Disbelief was laced in his voice as his knees gave way and he collapsed. The red head struggled to maintain consciousness, his right side burning with each intake of air as his body fought for breath. He felt his life fading as the blood poured from the massive wound and he dropped his forehead on the wooden deck of the Rengoku, struggling to overcome the pain that racked the entirety of his body. “Betray her, you say?” Shishio growled as he stood, sweeping Yumi into his arms. “Don't judge me using your stupid morals.” Kenshin lifted his head with great effort at the taller man's words, watching as Shishio stumbled over to the stairs that led to the Rengoku's captain's quarters, laying Yumi down before turning to face the smaller man. The rurouni's body screamed for rest, his muscles protesting under the strain of numerous cuts, burns, stab wounds, and bruises. It would be so easy to just give in to the pain and fade away into nothingness. His brow furrowed at the sudden notion of dying, recalling the words of his shishou. You have killed... depriving many people of their lives. The burden of guilt causes you to want to avoid the weight of life. To overcome this, you need only to understand the awareness of survival... in the fear of death you felt just now. Fear of death... Kenshin repeated silently, the image of his friends, of his master, and of his Kaoru-dono flashed before his eyes and his heart felt a desire to protect and to save... and to return to the one most precious to him. I want to return to her... I want to return to Kaoru-dono... I have to tell her... I have to see her... but I cannot see her if I die... So I must not die... I will not die... I will not die HERE! He rose on shaky legs, strengthening his mind, ignoring the searing pain that rolled like a tsunami over his entire being, his will superseding his physical limits as he glared over at his hitokiri successor. I cannot let Shishio win. I must stop him... I will stop him... For Japan's sake... For my friends sake... For Kaoru-dono's sake... I will end this now! “Ken...shin...” The rurouni heard the weakened and pained voice of Sanosuke calling out from under a pile of broken storage crates and he kept his gaze on the panting form of Shishio as he replied in as comforting as voice as he could manage, “Rest now Sano... it will be alright... I will finish him.” “Let's end this... Battosai!” Shishio snarled, rushing forward towards the smaller warrior. Kenshin drew power from his will, features morphing into an look of fury as he let out a roar and lunged forward, meeting the taller man in the middle of the deck, swinging his sakabato in precise arcs, driving Shishio back. The bandaged hitokiri was forced to parry, countering each strike, sliding his blade along the ground, flames shooting out as the body fat within the deadly teeth of Mugenjin ignited and he lashed out, slashing and burning the rurouni who ignored the pain, rolling along the ground and back onto his feet in one smooth motion. The red head pressed his attack, the two combatants blades striking simultaneously, the force knocking them down to the ground in opposite directions. They rose, stumbling forward, meeting again in the center, Kenshin landing several strikes though they did little to bring the larger man down. Shishio retaliated, using his brute strength to hit, strike, and grab at the smaller man, causing Kenshin to be on the defensive and he jumped back from the wild diagonal upward slash from the Mugenjin as it was consumed by fire. The rurouni tried to catch himself as he fell forward but his arms gave way and he collapsed onto the deck, panting as his body began to shut down. He lifted his tired head, brown eyes fixed on Shishio as the hitokiri fell down then rolled onto his back, a gush of blood erupting from his mouth as he struggled to overcome the tremendous heat roaring in his veins as he was pushed to his limit. Kenshin frowned as the bandaged lunatic began to recover, slowly rising, anger filling him as Shishio grinned and taunted out, “Get up, Battosai!” Bastard. He growled inwardly, pushing off the ground, crying out in anguish as he fought to rise, arms shaking violently from the pain, blood splattering onto the deck from the strain on the open wounds but still, he rose to his feet, glaring at the larger fighter. Kenshin snarled as he raised his sakabato and rushed forward. He slashed at Shishio's midsection as he was struck again by the fire blade though the red head whirled around, racing forward with a speed that only he possessed, wrapping his arms around the bandaged warrior as he tried to tackle him onto the ground. The rurouni winced as Shishio drove an elbow into his back, countering by switching the sakabato into his left hand, swinging as hard as he could in an upward slash. Kenshin leaped back, striking Shishio directly into the side of the head, driving him sideways only to stumble as the taller man grabbed his red kimono and yanked him forward, head butting him twice. Kenshin fought off the wave of dizziness from the blows to his forehead and switched the hilt of his sakabato back into his right hand, slashing up, striking Shishio in the head once more. The rurouni kicked and whirled around, his desire to defeat and stop the madman driving him forward and he landed a hit to Shishio's side and back. The smaller man used his superior speed to assault the bandaged lunatic in a barrage of quick strikes, pivoting around, feeding power to his arm, slashing sideways, slamming the blade into the taller man's back, forcing him to stumble. Kenshin then charged forward, blinking as Shishio whirled around him, pivoting, coming to stand behind the rurouni and the taller man swung wildly, slashing upwards, Mugenjin aflame, serrated teeth biting into the already bruised and torn flesh on the red head's back. The rurouni stumbled but caught himself, slowly turning around, blood streaming down the right side of his face, the pair of them exhausted from the fight, both laboring to breathe as they paused their battle. “Shishio...” The red head began, struggling to overcome the fatigue and pain radiating throughout his nearly broken body. “The hitokiri life we experienced during the revolution has ended... even though the government created... from those chaotic times... is far from perfect.... this... is a new era... an era of peace...” “You're wrong...” Shishio growled, lifting his sword “So long as I hold the Mugenjin in my hand, I will wage war on the Meiji Government... and bring chaos to all of Japan!” He swung down violently, dragging the tip of the blade along the deck of the Rengoku, igniting the flame as he held it up into the air. Stubborn and foolish! Kenshin growled inwardly, clenching his jaw as he leapt forward, lashing out in a series of quick strikes, hitting Shishio directly in the chest then back as he whirled around to face the bandaged lunatic, the bigger man's cries of pain signaling that he was finally wearing down. The rurouni's eyes lost focus for a second, his own body on the verge of giving out. But I cannot rest yet... not yet... not until I make him understand the truth. “It has ended...” He countered, lifting his gaze to look at the bandaged features of his opponent as he pointed his sword at Shishio. “Since I held this Sakabato...” “Then let's end it,” Shishio growled, holding the Mugenjin in an attacking position. “This is the final battle between you and I... Battosai...” Kenshin bent low, lifting his blade, turning it, executing the noto, grimacing in pain as he fought off the urge to pass out, turning the hilt of his sword slightly, the metal clicking as the guard struck the scabbard, the sakabato now sheathed. He let go of the hilt, hand outstretched, taking a battojutsu stance. For a few seconds, neither man moved. Now! Kenshin's mind screamed and he unsheathed his blade, racing forward, slashing out, driving Shishio back, the taller man countering as the full blade of Mugenjin burst into flame, swinging in a downward angle to strike the red head. But Kenshin was quicker, re-sheathing his sakabato, stepping forward with his left foot, drawing the sword out in in a lightning fast motion, swinging the blade in a violent and powerful upward sweep, striking the Mugenjin, breaking it, the force of the attack slamming into the chest of Shishio, lifting him off his feet, driving him several feet into the air and he tumbled down, landing onto his back with a sickening thud near the stairwell. Kenshin remained in his final position, blade still outstretched to his right as he spoke in a strained voice. “Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu Ougi, Amakekeru Ryu No Hirameki.” Blood spurted out of Shishio's mouth as he rolled to the side, the broken hilt of the Mugenjin still clenched in his right hand as he began to laugh. The rurouni lifted his head, studying Shishio in surprise. That blow carried all the power I had left in my body and he's still able to get up? Is there nothing I can do to stop this lunatic? Kenshin's eyes widened as steam began pouring out from beneath the bandages wrapped around the fallen man's form. His gaze met Shishio's, frowning at the manic gleam in the taller man's eyes. You truly are mad, aren't you? “It seems... fate chose you, Himura....” Shishio said between his laughter, tossing the broken hilt aside as he turned, pulling Yumi into his arms, cradling her as he climbed up the steps on shaky legs. “But... I don't have... time... to play anymore with you... I still have a country... to take over...” Kenshin watched as he reached the top, laying Yumi down as he turned to face the red head. “We'll meet again, Himura... in hell...” Shishio grinned, his breathing ragged, flames suddenly bursting around his body as he began to combust from overheating. The hitokiri's laughter echoed throughout the interior of the Rengoku, mixing with the ear shattering explosions as the ship was bombarded by cannon fire from the shore, the assassin's laughter morphing into cries of pain, Shishio's madness dying with him as he was incinerated by the flames of his own body. Kenshin's gaze remained focused on his nemesis as he watched him die, voice soft and fatigued. “Sayonara, Shishio....” The adrenaline rush from battle was gone, replaced with pain and weariness and the rurouni lowered his sakabato, sheathing it, legs giving way as he collapsed to his knees. “Kenshin!” Sano's voice cried out and the red head felt the brawler's hands lift him gently. “Sano...” Kenshin murmured, leaning heavily into the taller man. The battle was over and he was glad but his heart was still troubled. “I will be alright... that I will... but...” He paused, brow furrowed as his head was bent low, his thoughts shifting to the one most precious to him. “This one wants to see, Kaoru-dono...” “Kenshin...” Sano replied, looking over at his best friend. The rurouni was a mess, bloodied and beaten and he wondered if the swordsman had been hit in the head too many times to remember what the fighter had told him. “I told you Kaoru was okay on the beach, don't you remember?” A small smile tugged at Kenshin's lips, voice soft as he replied, “Yes, I remember... but this one wants to see Kaoru-dono with his own eyes.... that he does...” The brawler heard the shift in the smaller man's speech pattern, returning to his polite persona and he smirked a bit. “I'll bet...” Another series of explosions slammed into the hull of the ship, causing Sano to stumble forward, nearly dropping Kenshin and the brawler looked over as the police officer named Saito rose to his feet, his stern features fixed in look of urgency. The former leader of the third squad of the Shinsengumi focused his gaze on the rurouni, the brawler, and the interloper called Aoishi. “We have to get out of here, now!” “Right!” Sano said with a nod, walking quickly out the side door that lead to the deck, frowning as he felt Kenshin slump against him. “Kenshin?” He murmured, looking down, finding the rurouni's eyes closed. “Hang on, Kenshin... I'll get you back to the shore... I'll get you back to Kaoru... don't worry!” He vowed, reaching up to cover the swordsman's face and head from the projectiles that exploded around him, the ship beginning to list to the side. The boat that had taken them to the Rengoku waited down below and the four of them climbed down with some effort, boarding the wooden vessel, Sano moved up front, sitting Kenshin down before joining him as as the policemen began to row rapidly away from the sinking ironclad warship. Kenshin's eyes fluttered open, reaching down to grab his scabbard, pulling it up, resting it against his seated form,eyes a bit blurry as he spoke. “Sano?” “Yeah?” The taller man asked, looking over at his friend in concern. “It's over now... this whole thing is over... I can go home with Kaoru-dono... and live in peace...” The brawler's brow furrowed. Is he talking to me or trying to reassure himself? “You can live in peace now, Kenshin... No one can take that peace away from you.” A wistful smile tugged at his lips. Peace. I've wanted that for so long. But why do I feel like it won't be that simple? Hekept his head bowed low, worn out as the small wooden boat grew closer to shore. Every breath hurt now. The aches and pains from battle were pressing down on his bruised, battered, and broken body yet he would not submit to the darkness that threatened to draw him into unconsciousness. I must stay awake. I must stay awake so that I can know with my own eyes that Kaoru-dono is alright. I will not let the darkness take me...That I won't. His gaze lifted as the bow of the boat slid into the sandy coastline and he rose on shaky legs, handing his sakabato to Sanosuke as the brawler helped him step down. His zori sunk into the wet sand, the water washing over his tabi socks, soaking them, but he cared little in that moment, his eyes focused on the beautiful girl in white that raced towards him, his name whispered like a prayer from her lips as she cried out, “Kenshin!” His heart soared at the sight of her, relief filling his tired soul, his eyes confirming the certainty that she was alive and well. “Kaoru-dono...” He whispered, looking over to her as she came and wrapped an arm around his waist, taking his left arm and crooking it over her neck, supporting him, lending him her strength and he felt the weight of his battle lift, replaced by a warmth that soothed his wounded body. He wanted to tell her so many things in that moment. You are the light that tempers my darkness. You are the one who took me in, even after learning I was Battosai. You are the one who cared nothing for my past; only about my future. You are the one who told me you wanted to spend time with me, laugh with me, eat with me, and relax in the peaceful era with me. This one loves you for all that. I love you for your sweet smile, your idealism, your bravery, and your soul. Sweet Kaoru-dono, I love you. That I do. Kaoru looked at the rurouni with relieved eyes though her heart hurt at the sight of his wounded body. Oh, Kenshin, look what Shishio did to you. She reached out, wrapping an arm around his waist, taking his left arm and crooking it over her neck, wanting to comfort and help him. “I'm so glad you're alive, Kenshin. I've been so worried about you.” The rurouni lifted his head, seeing the concern in her lovely features. With the threat over, the red head felt safe in telling her the truth in explaining his fear for her... I must share this with her while I'm still conscious. “Kaoru-dono... this one is so sorry... so sorry for everything... When Shishio kidnapped you... I wanted to save you... I tried to save you... When that man... kicked you off the ship... I was... terrified of never seeing you again... this one failed you that night... but seeing you alive... here at my side... I feel... such happiness in my heart...” He paused, a fierceness in his voice that belied his tired features as he whispered “I will not let anything happen to you again, that I won't...” She felt heat on her cheeks at his confession, studying the rurouni with surprised eyes. He was terrified of never seeing me again? Me? Her pulse quickened a bit, the closeness of him, even though he was so very wounded, made her insides flutter. Still, Kaoru wanted to ease his concern and she whispered back in a strong but gentle voice. “I am not some delicate flower that wilts under the barest rays of the sun, so you need not worry so, Kenshin,” She replied, features softening as she added, “And do not blame yourself for what happened because I don't blame you, either. I know you were trying to protect me... that you were trying to save me... I didn't care about myself in that moment, Kenshin... I wanted you to live on... I wanted you to be strong... to live in this new era... free from your past...” She paused, whispering. “And I survived... I survived to find you... you are alive and that's all that matters to me.” The rurouni was surprised at her words, favoring her with a tender smile as he leaned heavily into her. “Kaoru-dono... hai... I'm alive... and so are you... that is all that matters to me...” He returned, moving with her as the girl began to walk forward, his smile falling when she stopped. “What is wrong, Kaoru-dono?” He asked, lifting his head to follow her gaze, finding the Home Minister of Japan, Hirubomi Ito marching towards them, Police Chief Kawaji to the bearded politician's left, a squadron of police behind the pair. “Congratulations are in order! You all did well today!” Ito called out, stopping several feet from the rurouni and his allies. Sano glared at the politician, not liking the man at all. You arrogant prick, you're the one who tried to kill us all and you have the balls to stand here in front of Kenshin acting like it's no big deal! “Bastard!” The brawler growled, stalking through the sand towards Ito. “We didn't do this for your damn government!” Kenshin heard his friend's indignation and anger, understanding his motivation and feelings towards the politician and the Meiji Government. But if you hit Ito-san, they will throw you in jail or kill you on the spot. “Sano...” The red head called out, his voice soft, nearly pleading in it's tone. The fighter stopped, looking over at his best friend, seeing the worried look in his eyes. Man, Kenshin... this guy is bad news... but I guess you know that, otherwise you wouldn't look so upset... so I won't push it... for now... Sighing, Sano tossed a heated glare at the politician before reluctantly returning to stand next to Yahiko. The rurouni kept his gaze on the Home Minister, voice firm as he spoke. “Shishio is dead. Are you satisfied now?” Ito smiled slowly, nodding. “I see... Yes... Japan is safe now... Right Kawaji?” He said, reaching out to pat the Police Chief's right shoulder. “Y.. Yes.. that's right...” Kawaji replied, feeling a bit of unease around the man who had ordered the bombardment of the Rengoku, while the battle between the wanderer and the bandaged lunatic was still ongoing. Kaoru listened to the conversation, moving forward when she thought it was over, stopping again as Ito shouted out, “And Battosai is also dead... along with the remnants of the revolution...” Kenshin frowned, worry seizing his heart, unsure of the bearded man's words. What are you up to Ito-san? Is nearly killing me with the shelling of the Rengoku not enough for you? Ito kept his gaze on the rurouni as he spoke, his voice softening a bit. “Your name is Kenshin... Himura... right?” There was no threat in the politician's voice, but rather an acknowledgment that the red head's hitokiri past was dead as he was called by his regular name. I am just Kenshin Himura now... Just Kenshin... His features shifted to surprise as the Home Minister shouted out, “Salute the heroes!” The police officers snapped to attention, saluting the rurouni and his allies who looked around in various shades of confusion or irritation. “Kenshin?” The sweet sound of Kaoru's voice drew his attention back to her, his heart lightening as she murmured, “Let's go home...” Home. He repeated with a gentle smile. “Hai... Let's go home, Kaoru-dono...” The rurouni leaned into her, doing his best to ignore the pain that exploded throughout his body with each step. Kaoru kept her hold around the red head's waist, helping him navigate through the village on the shore of Tokyo Bay, brow furrowed at how slow their progress was. At this rate, it will be nightfall before we reach the dojo. Her gaze shifted to study the wanderer's features, her brow furrowed at his unsteady steps as he shuffled along beside her. I know you're hurting and tired, Kenshin. and I'm sorry that I have no other way to get you back home. “Kamiya-san!” The brown haired girl stopped at the urgent sound of a young male's voice, blinking as a lanky police officer rushed past her, pivoting around to face her. “Kamiya-san,” He repeated, slightly out of breath as he gave a slight bow of his head, introducing himself. “My name is Akio Hakata, I am a police officer under the command of Chief Kawaji,” The officer in blue began. “He sent me to offer his thanks for Himura-san's bravery and to escort you to his carriage so that he and his friend may return home quickly to receive proper medical treatment.” Kaoru was hesitant at first, still a bit shook up from all that had happened. And I don't trust anyone in power at the moment. Still, the officer was young and earnest and she could sense nothing dubious about him or his offer. “Alright,” She replied with a nod. “We accept your offer. Lead the way, officer Hakata.” The police officer gave a slight bow of his head once more, turning to face the road that led out of the village and Kaoru followed him, guiding Kenshin along, frowning at how much heavier the wanderer felt and she looked over at the red head. “Kenshin?” “This one is fine, Kaoru-dono...” The swordsman replied in a tired voice. “I just need to rest a bit... that I do...” “Do you want to stop and take a few moments?” Kaoru asked. “No... I can continue on Kaoru-dono...” Kenshin said softly. “The carriage ride is a generous offer, that it is, and I do not want to delay officer Hakata-san from his other duties.” Kaoru couldn't help but smile a bit at his selflessness. You worry about everyone don't you, Kenshin? Even those you've never even met. She guided him along and over to the carriage, watching as the young officer opened the door for them. The brown haired girl reluctantly loosened her hold around the rurouni's waist, helping him step up and inside, following behind him, taking a seat to his left, Sano and Yahiko climbing inside next, sitting opposite of the wanderer and the girl. Once everyone was inside, officer Hakata carefully shut the door then instructed the driver to head to the Kamiya dojo with great haste. The carriage began to move, the interior rocking back and forth as it picked up speed and Kenshin felt fatigue slam into his remaining senses. The threat was over. Japan was safe. Kaoru-dono was safe. And this one is tired... so tired... His eyelids grew heavy, sleep calling his name and he answered, passing out as his head fell sideways, right onto Kaoru's shoulder. Kaoru blinked as she felt Kenshin's head resting on her shoulder and she turned her gaze sideways, blushing a bit though worry was on her lovely features as she studied his bruised and bloody face. Whatever had happened on that ship had been intense and violent. The damage done to the rurouni's body was visible and her heart hurt at the physical trauma Kenshin had received from such a vicious fight. But what about the trauma to his heart and his mind? What scars would he carry from his battle with Shishio? The words of Megumi came back to her then. An injury in time will heal, but multiple injuries add up, taking a toll on a person's body... and this isn't Ken-san's first battle. There are more than just physical wounds that could kill him. I want to help him to heal. Her mind whispered, acknowledging what her heart wanted and already knew. I want to help him move on in this peaceful era and to know I care about him. Her features shifted, becoming tender as she reached out and gently clasped his hand. I will help you, Kenshin. I will be here for you. Always. I promise. The carriage continued on, weaving through the streets of Tokyo, coming to a stop outside the Kamiya dojo and Kaoru turned to Sano who spoke, “Kenshin looks whipped. Do you want me to help get him inside?” “No offense, but you're looking rather beat up and tired yourself, Sanosuke. I can handle Kenshin.” The brawler quirked an eyebrow, flinching when Yahiko nudged his side with his elbow. “Hey kid, what was that for?” He growled, looking over at the boy who whispered, a slight grin on his lips, “Kaoru's got Kenshin handled... Let her have her fun while she can...” Kaoru's eyes narrowed. “I heard that Yahiko...” The dark haired boy's grin fell and he sighed. “Come on, Sano, let's get you inside so Megumi-san can fix you up.” At the mention of the doctor's name the brawler smirked and nodded. “Yoshi!.. let's go, Yahiko...” He rose excitedly, despite his shaky legs, waiting for the boy to open the door and exit the carriage before following, stepping down as the boy helped keep him from falling. Kaoru was surprised at the enthusiasm in the fighter's behavior as she watched the two males leave. Usually he growls and throws his hands up at any medical attention from Megumi. Could it be that he... “Hey, Kaoru, are you going to just sit there all day or what? Kenshin needs help too, you know...” The brown haired girl turned her gaze over to Yahiko. As much as she loved the boy, his teasing of her in regards to Kenshin frustrated and irritated her to no end. You'll be doing extra katas for that later, Yahiko. She vowed, tossing him a dark look as she shifted the rurouni forward, wrapping her arm around his waist, rising up, nearly dragging him as she made her way to the open door, turning sideways, carefully stepping down, not wanting to fall and injure the red head further. Even for his small frame, he was still difficult to move. And with him passed out, I have to do all the work to get him inside. Crooking his arm over her neck she walked with slow steps up to the door that led to the dojo, entering behind the fighter and her student, the voice of Megumi floating on the wind as she cried out, “Sanosuke!” The doctor raced over, looking at the fighter with worried eyes, visually assessing his injuries, relieving Yahiko of the burden of helping Sano walk, escorting him up the step and into the closest room. She helped the tall man sit down then turned, her gaze focused on Kaoru as she dragged an unconscious Kenshin into the small yard. “Ken-san!” She ran down, helping the dojo instructor as the two women lifted the rurouni up over the step and into the next room. Laying the red head down, the ladies rose, Megumi addressing the smaller girl as she spoke. “Kaoru, I'm going to heat up some water and gather bandages and healing salves. What I need you to do is remove Ken-san's clothing so that we can inspect then clean his injuries.” Kaoru blushed. “You want me to strip Kenshin?” She squeaked out, frowning at how high pitched her voice went. “What's the issue? You've been around men most of your life, you should know what they look like naked,” Megumi replied in a clinical voice, too worried about the two men to ease the girl's discomfort. “Besides, I'm not asking you to remove his loincloth so stop being a child and help me out.” Kaoru glared at the older woman but complied, watching the female doctor leave before turning her gaze back down to the unconscious rurouni. Sorry about this, Kenshin. She said silently as she knelt down, sitting lotus style. She reached out, hesitating at the knot of his obi before untying it, carefully tugging the kimono up and out of his hakama pants. The dojo instructor rolled the swordsman onto his side, gently lifting his arm, sliding the material off his shoulder before repeating the process on the other side. She tugged the kimono out and lay it to her right, her gaze falling on his bare torso and her breath caught in her throat, her hand lifting to cover her mouth in shock, tears springing in her eyes as she studied the extensive damage done to the rurouni's body. Oh, Kenshin... She cried silently. How did you survive all this? There were numerous cuts, burn marks, and bruises along his chest and a rather nasty stab wound in his upper right pectoral muscle that still bled and on the left side of his neck... was that a bite mark?! She leaned forward, disbelief in her features, her gaze shifting back to Kenshin's face as his head moved, freezing as she suddenly found the rurouni's confused eyes looking up at her. Kenshin was drawn into the realm of consciousness by the sensation of gentle hands removing his clothing, the air caressing his bare skin and his brow furrowed when his nose caught a faint trace of jasmine. I know this scent... it's... His eyelid's fluttered open and the rurouni blinked slowly, vision clearing, studying the features of the brown haired girl, noting her look of panic and he croaked out, “Kaoru-dono?” “ I was just taking off your clothes...” Kaoru blurted out and the rurouni's eyes widened at her statement as he sounded out, “Oro?” Kaoru saw the surprise in the red head's eyes and winced at the connotation of her words, quickly correcting herself. “That is, Megumi told me to help get you out of your clothes so that she could assess your injuries.” Kenshin gave her a tired smile, understanding on his handsome features. “Ah... this one thanks you, Kaoru-dono. I am sorry... you have to see me... like this...” “Eh?” The dojo instructor replied. “Like what, Kenshin?” “Cut up... bloodied... wounded...” He turned his gaze to the side, features falling as he murmured, “This one wanted to come back to you strong and safe... so that you would not worry... but I... fought too hard... and ended up like this...” “Kenshin...” Kaoru whispered. “That you came back to me alive is all I ask for. I was terrified for you, Kenshin. I tried to reach you on the beach but I couldn't get past the barrier. And when I saw you take off... I wanted to find you... to let you know I was okay... but you were gone... you left for that ship... and I feared I would never see you again.” The rurouni turned his gaze back to her, features softening as he listened. Kaoru bit her lip, lowering her gaze, clutching the fabric of her pants. “Then you returned... hurt... in need of help... and I wanted to help you, Kenshin... I want to help you get better... so whatever you need of me, ask and I will do what I can to make you healthy again.” Beautiful Kaoru-dono, that you care about me helps me more than you could ever know. He thought but could not voice. Not yet, anyway. It is not the right time and I don't want to frighten her away with my feelings. Instead he asked softly, “Will you help me to heal, Kaoru-dono?” Kaoru lifted her head at his question. Why did such a simple statement make her heart flutter so? It sounded... personal... almost... tender... and she favored him with a warm smile. “Hai, Kenshin. I will help you heal.” Her smile lifted his spirit and her eagerness to help his broken body mend made him love her all the more. “Thank you, Kaoru-dono... This one is so very happy to have you at his side.... that he is...” He whispered. Kaoru felt heat on her cheeks at his words, smiling shyly as she lowered her gaze, lifting it at the sound of Megumi's voice as she called out, “Ken-san, you're awake. This is good.” The female doctor entered the room, carrying a bowl of water and a cloth towards the rurouni, crouching down to sit the two items beside Kaoru. “Please wash the blood off his wounds, Kaoru, while I tend to Sano's injuries.” She instructed then rose, heading back towards the room when Kenshin asked, “Megumi-dono, is Sano okay?” The female doctor turned, a bit of a smile on her face. “He's covered in contusions and has some broken ribs but he's a stubborn ox so he'll be just fine, don't you worry.” Kenshin smiled at the description of his best friend. “Thank you, Megumi-dono.” The doctor gave a slight bow of her head, looking over at Kaoru, making a subtle motion of her head towards the red head before pivoting around and returning to Sanosuke's side. Kaoru blinked but turned her gaze to Kenshin who struggled to sit up. “Kenshin, stop! Let me help you!” She cried, shifting as she reached out, gently helping him into an upright position. The girl grabbed the towel, dipping it into the hot water, ignoring the heat as she wrung out the cloth, steam rising off her reddened hands. With great care Kaoru began to clean the blood and grime off Kenshin's face, casting a gaze more than once over to the right as she heard Megumi's voice rise, chastising the fighter as he growled and bickered with her. Those two are quite the pair. She thought with a bit of a smile. The wanderer also caught the sound of his friend's voice arguing with the lady doctor and he chuckled a bit inwardly as he closed his eyes, holding still as Kaoru wiped away the caked crimson fluid on his features, finding the warmth of the cloth as comforting as the closeness of her, his voice low but soft. “Kaoru-dono?” “Hmm?” She sounded, gentle in her motions as she cleaned his skin, finding him even more handsome up close. “That feels nice, that it does.” She blinked but smiled. “I'm glad, Kenshin,” She whispered, her gaze lowering to the wounds on his torso, her smile faltering as she murmured sadly, “Shishio really hurt you, didn't he?” Kenshin's eyelids fluttered open, brow furrowed as he watched the girl begin to clean each injury on his chest. “It was... a struggle to beat him, Kaoru-dono. He would not give up... He was...” He paused, wondering how to describe the severity of their fight. “Mad... sick in the heart... and in the mind... that madness... gave him great strength... and this one's body paid the price for fighting him.” The red head focused his gaze on the girl. “But Shishio is gone now. This one should not have to fight anyone for a good long while.” “I don't want you to have to fight, Kenshin... I want you to rest... and have peace... you've earned it... more than anyone you have earned to right to live your days without the threat of death hanging over your head.” Kaoru whispered, her gaze still cast downward as she slowly withdrew and turned, dipping the towel into the bowl, the once clear water turning red as she wrung out the cloth then shifted, moving around to clean the long diagonal cut on the wanderer's back and the exit wound caused by Mugenjin near his right shoulder blade. Sweet Kaoru-dono. His mind whispered, his expression hopeful as he silently voiced his wish. I want to believe that. I want to believe I can live my life in peace. With you. I want that more than anything. That I do. He remained still as the girl finished cleaning his injuries and Megumi came back into the room, assessing his wounds, giving him a powerful sedative to dull the pain as she set to work on sealing up his open injuries, putting salve on his burns and on the open stab wound that would take a long time to heal. His injuries were then wrapped up in bandages and the doctor rose, looking over at Kaoru as she addressed the younger female. “He will need lots of rest and you will want to watch over him to make sure infection doesn't set in.” Kaoru gave a slight bow of her head. “Thank you, Megumi. I will do as you suggest.” The female doctor studied the girl for a moment before returning the bow of her head and exiting the room. The brown haired girl rose, grabbing a pillow and a blanket, returning to the rurouni's side as she knelt back down. “You heard Megumi, Kenshin. Time to rest.” She whispered, gently helping him to turn to his side and lay down. Kenshin went as he was guided, his mind a bit dulled by the sedative and his head rested on the pillow, a smile on his face as the girl covered his weary form with a blanket. “Thank you, Kaoru-dono. For everything.” He whispered, closing his eyes as he fell into the arms of sleep, dreaming of a new era... with the one most precious to him. Okay, first chapter completed. Do please leave a review to let me know if you liked it or not. And if anyone has a tumblr account you can find me at blueeyedshuichi.tumblr.com or Musings of a Kitsune where I post all kinds of stuff that interests me as well as snippets of my own writing from various stories.