Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction ❯ Love and Vengeance ❯ Iris ( Chapter 12 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

Another update! Hope everyone enjoys it!

Word list:

Toppai jingasa- conical war hat

Mitarashi Dango- sweet rice dumplings

mino- straw coat

Chapter 12- Iris

First Year of the Genji Era, Early June 1864

Kenshin sat at the window sill, staring idly out into the clear blue sky, his sheathed katana resting against his chest as his mind wandered. Over two weeks had passed since that night in the rain and in that time, the hitokiri had grown used to Tomoe's presence, though there was an unspoken wall between them. I still haven't answered her question. He thought, recalling that night not too long ago. Would I have killed her, had she carried a sword that night?

"I've come to clean the room, you should go outside for a while."

The redhead turned his attention at the sound of Tomoe's voice, finding her petite form standing in front of the open shoji door of his room. She's really taken to working for this inn, hasn't she? He thought as he grumbled, "I didn't ask for you to clean it."

"No, but Okami-san asked for me to tidy up your quarters, so that's what I'm doing now. Now then, if you would be so kind as to leave for a while I can get to work on this mess." Tomoe replied, studying him with expectant eyes.

Kenshin sighed but rose, grabbing his katana, sliding it under his obi as he shuffled off, brushing against the low table to his left, blinking as something flopped onto the floor. "What is this?" He murmured, crouching down to scoop up the small unmarked book.

Tomoe felt panic seize her at the sight of him holding her diary and she walked towards him. "Please do not read that, it's my diary."

Straightening his frame, the hitokiri held the book out for her to take, blinking when she snatched it from his hand. "As if I even would do such a thing," He murmured, watching as the girl stuffed the book into her kimono. "I'm going now." He added, exiting his room, leaving the girl alone to do her chores.

Tomoe watched him go, letting out the breath she'd been holding, knees shaking a bit at how close she'd been caught. I can't believe I left that out in the open. What if he had actually read it?! Our plan would be ruined and my life would be forfeit! She chided silently as she clutched the broom in her hand. Would it be so bad to die, though? She wondered. Akira is waiting for me and I miss him terribly. Yet, I... I don't wish to die right now. Not like this... not found out as a betrayer of trust. Trust I am only beginning to earn.

A small part of her felt miserable for the ploy she was perpetuating, bothered by the boy's withdrawn and depressive nature. This what not what she expected of Akira's murderer. He finds no joy in killing. His nightmares tell me as much. When he sleeps... I hear him call out for his master for comfort... The boy must have had a rough childhood... To become a killer, especially for one so young, must be a heavy burden to bear. She shook her head, angry at herself. Listen to me, worried about my enemy, childish foolishness! She set to work cleaning up the room, pouring her energy into sweeping to alleviate the irritation she felt at her own conflicted thoughts and emotions, trying to forget about the redheaded boy that was beginning to grow a little on her.

Kohagiya Downstairs

Kenshin stalked down the hallway, agitated at being kicked out of his own room. Damn woman, anyway. He growled silently. Why did I have to get stuck with her? Even if she is... helpful... and I don't... mind her being around. His brow furrowed. Wait, did I really just think that?

"Himura, wait up!"

Kenshin stopped, turning around at the voice of I'izuka. "What is it?" He asked gruffly.

"Gee, Himura, what's wrong? Get into a fight with Tomoe again?"

The red head reacted at the insinuation, reaching down with his left hand to grab his saya, his thumb flicking against the guard of his katana, a flash of steel visible and the mustached man lifted his hands up, backing off.

"Okay, Okay, I get it!"

Kenshin glared at the older man. "Well, what do you want?" He asked in a clipped tone, still irritated at his situation and the implication I'izuka made about him and Tomoe.

The taller man's features grew serious as he drew out a black envelope. "Your next assignment. Take care of the target tonight."

Kenshin stiffened a bit at the black envelope. It was the first kill he'd been assigned in close to a month and a part of him wanted to deny the request, still traumatized from his last major assassination. But I am a hitokiri of the Ishin Shishi and my job is to eliminate those of the Bakufu, no matter how much I despise myself for the murders I commit in the name of Tenchuu. He reached out, snatching the envelope from I'izuka's hand. "I understand. It will be done." The boy turned away from the messenger, heading down the hall that led out into the garden. Kenshin came to a stop by the small pond, opening the envelope, reading and memorizing the instructions before he stuffed the Tenchuu note into his kimono. The hitokiri's features became impassive, hiding all visible signs of emotion in his expression as he headed into town to track down and eliminate his target.

Inside the Inn

Tomoe continued her cleaning and chore work, finishing up as the sun began to set low in the sky. She headed back to the room she shared with the hitokiri, expecting him to be in his usual spot by the window, only to find that the sill remained unoccupied. Her eyes shifted to fading light and she felt a tinge of... concern about his absence. That can't be right. Why would I be worried? He deserves death for what he's done, not the peace and quiet of being in this room. But did she really wish him death? The more she grew to know the quiet redhead, the more she felt... sympathy for him. Confusion filled her. I should hate him... despise him... want him dead... but why do I feel... like that isn't the right choice? Conflicted emotions swirled in her heart and something urged her to move forward and seek him out, wanting to make sure he was alright.

The dark haired woman exited the room, heading down the stairs and into the darkened hall. Her eyes sought out some sign of movement and she came to a stop when she heard a masculine voice whisper,

"You won't find Himura here. He's currently on an assignment in town."

She recognized the owner of the voice, though his face was hidden by shadow. "You sent him off to kill again, didn't you?"

A low chuckle was heard. "What else would an assassin do but kill. But why do you care? He's your enemy is he not?"

Tomoe hesitated for a moment, her own voice a whisper. "Yes, but it seems... wrong for a boy to have to kill. He's still so young... barely a man at all... It seems... cruel..."

Silence met her ears for a few seconds before the voice asked in a surprised tone, "Don't tell me you're growing soft on him? Especially after what he did."

"I... no..." She said in her usual emotionless voice, though inside she felt a bit nervous at being asked such a question. "I merely find it... unfair that the boy is being used as a tool of death when he should be helping his family or furthering his education..."

"The Battosai has no family, my lady... he's not even a real samurai... little more than peasant stock... though I admit he's quite the gifted swordsman."

"Then it is crueler still..."

"Hmm... I suppose..." The voice murmured before changing the subject. "Katsura requested information on you and where you came from. I will make sure what reaches his ears is of little use to him, so your secret will remain safe."

It did not surprise Tomoe to hear that she was being investigated. "I appreciate your assistance on the matter."

"It's what I'm paid to do, right?" The voice replied then added, "Just make sure not to get too sweet on the kid. Your mission is vital to the success of our objective."

"Tomoe?" Okami's voice floated down the hall. "Are you out there?"

The girl nearly jumped at the sound of the innkeeper's voice, pivoting away from the shadowed end of the corridor, calling out softly, "I am here, yes."

"Would you be a dear and come to the kitchen? Dinner is ready for our guests and I need your help to deliver their meals to them."

"Of course Okami-san. I will be right there." Tomoe answered, tossing a look over her shoulder, sensing that the informant had already left, taking the slightly creepy vibe with him. Good... I don't like being closer to him than I have to. She thought before turning her attention before her, keeping tight control of her emotions as she made her way to the kitchen to help deliver dinner to the men of Choushuu.

Kohagiya Garden Evening Hours

Kenshin returned home late, hands and face stained with the blood of the men he'd just killed. He cut through the garden, steps slow and heavy, coming to a stop before the water barrel. He stared down at the clear liquid, seeing his bloody reflection on the surface and he made a sound of disgust. How many more men do I have to kill before this war ends? How many more lives do I have to destroy in the name of Tenchuu? He jabbed angrily at his bloody image, ringing his hands before cupping them to splash water on his face, the cold liquid trailing down his now clean skin in rivulets. He sensed her presence then and his shoulders dropped. "You shouldn't be out here at this time of night."

"I know," Tomoe replied, coming to a stop to his left. "But I was... worried about you..."

Kenshin frowned, turning to face her. "Worried about me?"

"Yes," She said with a nod. "You were gone all day and I missed... your presence... I feel... safe when you're near..."

He pondered what to say to that. "I had a mission to complete. I could not remain here today."

"To kill another member of the Shogunate, I take it?" Tomoe replied. "How long do you intend to continue killing like this? Are you not... wore out from it all?"

"How I feel is irrelevant," Kenshin answered in a harsher tone than he intended. "I will continue to do my duty until the Bakufu is no more and true peace comes to Japan."

Tomoe flinched but did not relent in her position, seeing the fatigued look in the hitokiri's eyes. "You hate killing people, don't you?"

He lowered his gaze towards the ground, surprised by her comment. "Hai," He admitted quietly then began to move forward. "Excuse me. I need... to go rest for a while... I'm feeling rather tired..."

Tomoe shifted to the side, allowing him to pass, not immune to feeling bad for the boy. He's done so much... killed so many... but the toll it takes... I can see it on his face and his body. Her gaze shifted over to the water barrel. No matter how many times he tries to clean his hands, the stain of blood remains. What kind of existence is that? She wondered. The girl walked back into the inn, climbing the stairs that led to the redhead's room and she slowly slid the door open, peering inside. There, by the window sill, huddled on the floor, sat Kenshin. The hitokiri's arms were wrapped around his legs, his eyes hidden by his bangs, wondering if the trail of wetness she spied in the dark was from water... or from tears.

"Are you hungry?" She asked softly, careful to not upset him as she entered the room.

Kenshin said nothing for a few seconds before answering, "No thank you... I'm not... hungry right now."

She came to a stop a few feet from him, lowering down into a sitting position. "I understand. You must not have much of an appetite after your... missions..."

Kenshin kept his head bowed low. "No appetite... something like that... yes."

He looks so vulnerable right now. Tomoe thought as she studied him pull his legs tighter against his small frame. Like a child trying to escape from the world. She noticed the boy shivering and she asked softly, "You look cold. Let me get you a blanket."

"I'm fine," Kenshin lied, trying hard to keep from letting her see how broken he felt. "Just fatigued."

"Then you should lay down and rest."

"I cannot lay down," The redhead replied. "I don't feel safe sleeping on a futon."

Tomoe blinked. So that's why he always falls asleep sitting up. It would leave him defenseless in case of attack. "I see... Is that why you call out for your master when you sleep?"

Kenshin lifted his head, snapping his gaze in her direction. "What?"

"You talk in your sleep," The girl replied. "You often call out to your shishou for help. And I was wondering... if you were close to him."

Kenshin frowned. Great... more weakness to add to my list of problems. He growled inwardly. "He was... like a father to me..." He found himself answering. "But we had an argument about... philosophy... and I left his teaching."

"Do you miss him?" Tomoe asked.

Kenshin looked away. "Sometimes," He whispered. "But I can never go back and face him. Not after what I've become."

The dark haired woman felt sadness creep into her heart. He's lost so much... his family... his teacher... his childhood... Tomoe at last began to understand him better, voice sincere as she rose to her feet. "I am sorry. I will leave you be so you can rest."

"You don't... You don't have to go." Kenshin murmured. "Are you not... tired as well?"

Tomoe turned to look down at him. "I have a few duties to attend to then I will return to rest for the night."

"Oh... of course..." Kenshin said watching as the girl headed towards the door. "I.. that is... I want to thank you for your help and for listening to me... I'm sorry I'm not much of a... conversationalist."

Tomoe gave a nod of her head. "You are welcome," She replied, pausing at the entrance of the door, turning to face him. "And I do not mind listening to you." She added before disappearing from view.

Kenshin stared at the door for several moments then sighed. It was odd... talking to her about himself. He felt a bit of warmth in his heart for her. Was it relief or something else? After all this time alone and isolated... to finally have someone to talk to... someone who would listen... made some of his darkness fade away. He shook his head. I really am going mad. He thought before he closed his eyes and fell into a light sleep.

First Year of the Genji Era, June 20, 1864

Katsura sat on the edge of a bench, his features partially hidden by the black toppai jingasa atop his head. "So tell me, I'izuka, what information have you discovered about the girl?"

The mustached man sat on the opposite edge munching on a stick of Mitarashi Dango, chewing one of the dumplings before he answered. "I questioned as many people as I could and sent out men to gather intel on the girl. Most of what we've gleaned has been due to observing her behavior. Her mannerisms, her way of speaking, her taste in food, and her ability to read and write indicates that she is a samurai's daughter but not from the capital. It is highly probable she is from the Kantou region and drifted down here following the trade route."

"Has she tried to contact anybody?" Katsura asked, lifting the tea cup in his hand to take a sip.

"No," I'izuka replied. "She seems quite content to stay inside and help around the inn. No one has asked for her and the girl has written no correspondence to anyone outside. It is very unlikely that she is our spy."

"Could she be using an alias?" The leader of the Choushuu faction asked.

"I would have come across something like that already. No. Her name is her own. Probably just ran away from home and came here looking to start a new life."

"What is her effect on Himura?"

I'izuka looked down at his plate. "He doesn't appear to mind her presence... and lately..."

Katsura frowned at the smaller man's pause. "Lately what?"

"Well... it's just that... Himura seems a bit more laid back when she's in the room with him," I'Izuka explained. "Don't get me wrong, the boy is still as clipped in his words and mannerisms as ever but around the girl he tends to relent and his body is less tense and his voice softens..."

Relaxed around her? Interesting... that could prove very useful for the boy. Katsura thought as he spoke. "Hmm... That is good to hear. Keep me informed if there are any new developments." The leader rose and headed off, pondering what to do about the situation between his best fighter and the demure young lady staying in the Battosai's room.

Kohagiya June 21, 1864

Kenshin stood near the pond in the garden of the Kohagiya, his eyes fixed upon the opened black envelope in his hands. It was all part of the job of a hitokiri. I signed up for this of my own free will. I deliver divine punishment on those who have wronged the country with their greed and their corruption. But I... I feel no pride in killing them... only hatred... of myself and what I've become. He sighed, his shoulders dropping as he kept his gaze lowered, sick at heart. Am I forever cursed to do nothing but murder men I don't even know?

"Are you alright?"

The Battosai stiffened his back, quickly shoving the envelope into his kimono as he turned to face the owner of the voice. "I am fine..."

Tomoe came to a stop before the redhead, studying him for a few seconds before she spoke. "You do not look fine. Is something wrong?"

He was no longer surprised by her perceptive nature and found he did not want to make her worry. "I am just a bit tired is all. I will get over it."

She saw him tugging at his kimono as if to conceal something and she replied. "You have another mission tonight, I take it?"

He dropped his shoulders slightly at her question. "Yes," He admitted, his tone softening as he added, "But I will return later this evening."

"You will be careful though, right?"

The hitokiri stared at the girl in surprise. Is she really concerned about me? "I will be careful and I will return here later, so you do not have to wait up for me."

"I don't mind it," Tomoe replied, her voice soft as she moved a bit closer to him. "I won't be able to sleep until you return... I feel... safe when you're near... and nervous... when you're gone."

He blinked, brow furrowed. "Why would you be nervous, Tomoe-san? Has someone tried to..." His voice trailed off, unable to voice his sudden concern over her safety.

"No.. it's nothing like that... I just... I just feel better when you're here... that's all."

Kenshin's features softened, his own worries over his situation forgotten. "You do not have to worry. I will come back here to you... I promise..." The redhead turned from her, features hardening as he headed towards the garden exit, voice lowering as he called out, "I will see you tonight, Tomoe-san."

She shivered at the tone in his voice. It's almost like he's a different person when he goes off to kill. Tomoe watched him disappear from sight, feeling a small pang of worry in her heart. Was it possible that she was... growing a bit soft on him? I shouldn't... I can't think like that... he's a killer... a murderer... but when I look at him... no matter how many times I remind myself of who and what he is, I find myself unable to hate him.

Tomoe lowered her gaze and closed her eyes. But I can't forgive Himura for what he did. He stole my happiness. And yet... He's suffering from the weight of killing all those men. Men he doesn't know... all for the sake of some kind of mad justice. And he's slipping into a kind of darkness that torments him when evening comes. A darkness so terrifying that he calls out for someone every night to save him only to awaken to the sound of silence without love or comfort to ease his pain. Relegated to the same fate over and over, stuck in a living hell with not hope of escape or relief. Is that not punishment enough?

She turned, heading back into the inn, eyes downcast, troubling thoughts continuing to rule her mind and she came to a stop at the sound of Okami's voice.

"Tomoe-san, are you feeling well?"

The girl blinked in surprise at the older woman's question, unused to anyone recognizing her emotions under the mask of impassiveness she wore.

"I am... alright," Tomoe replied, turning to face her employer, watching as Okami was arranging a bunch of purple irises. "I am just... well... a bit worried is all."

"Are you worried over Himura?"

"Hai," Tomoe admitted in a whisper, lowering her gaze. "I find it harsh for someone so young to go off to war. To kill so many... and to be little more than a child... he must be in a lot of pain."

Okami studied the girl. "Yes, my dear. But that is the nature of the world. Men live to fight it seems... and innocence is one of the first things lost in a battlefield of blood and death," She paused, a soft smile on her face. "But do not trouble yourself so much with what Himura does away from the inn. He will return to you safe and unharmed."

"I know he will... It's just..." Her voice fell at the sound of pinging against the inn, the scent of rain filling the air and she turned, looking out towards the entrance.

"Hmm... another rain storm... should help the irises bloom," Okami commented, noting the far off look in the girl's eyes. "You're very much like an iris, Tomoe. Beautiful and alive when it rains."

Tomoe gasped slightly at the innkeeper's words. An iris blooms best in the rain. Was that what she was? A dying flower, wilting away from the pain of losing Akira now brought to life by the rain of blood from Himura's blade? "Thank you..." Was all she could manage to say, unable to voice the swirl of emotions within her heart and complications brewing in her mind.

"You are welcome," Okami replied before turning her attention back to her flower arranging.

Tomoe watched the older woman work for a few seconds before asking, "Would you like me to help with anything, Okami-san?"

"Now that you mention it, the guests have some spare clothing in need of repair. If you would be so kind to aid in that task, I should be most grateful."

"Of course. I'll work on that right away." Tomoe replied with a nod, heading off the gather the clothing as the innkeeper suggested.

Okami smiled. Such a dutiful girl. I know she cares about Himura... even if she won't admit to it... and the boy well... men misunderstand their own feelings most of the time but he seems protective of her. Perhaps they will find some sort of happiness in this world gone mad.

Kohagiya, June 21, 1864 Late Evening

Tomoe sat quietly in Kenshin's room, stitching up a pair of hakama pants. The light of the candle lamp illuminated the darkness, allowing her to see what needed repair and she continued her work, stopping when a gentle tapping sound erupted near the shoji door. "Come in," She called out softly, a rare look of surprise marring her features as the door slid open, revealing the form of Kogoro Katsura.

"I am sorry for disturbing you so late in the evening, but I was wondering if I could speak with you for a moment about Himura."

"Has something happened to him?" She asked as calmly as she could, lowering the fabric to the floor, watching as Katsura entered and sat down before her.

"No, Himura is fine physically. It's his mental state I'm worried about."

Tomoe said nothing, letting him continue.

"When I was young, I studied under a man named Shouin Yoshida. He was a master of Shouka Sonjuu and he once said that we were meant to break the era of the Tokogawa Rule that drove men to commit acts of madness. But in order to do that, we had to become mad ourselves. No matter the lengths we had to go to bring about a new era, we had to push forward with our form of mad justice. Himura is leading that charge, fulfilling the harshest of roles. And yet..."

"And yet the more he bloodies his blade, the more Himura-san's heart and mind suffer, is that what you meant to say?" Tomoe interjected.

Katsura studied the girl with impressed eyes. "Hai... he is growing closer to the edge of madness and if he falls into that dark abyss, I fear there will be no way to save him."

"So you wish for me to help him then?" Tomoe asked, keeping her expression blank, though inside she was a bit nervous at what this powerful man was asking of her.

"I am not telling you to do anything... But Himura's blade will need a sheath to contain the madness. I believe you are that sheath, Tomoe-san," Katsura replied then rose. "I will leave you to your work. Thank you for taking the time to listen to me. Goodnight."

Tomoe remained still as the man left and closed the door behind him, waiting for several moments before she shifted over to the low table where her diary lay. Flipping it open she dipped the brush into the inkwell then began to write down her thoughts:

The leader of the Choushuu faction came to the room tonight to discuss the Battosai's mental state and asked for me to be the boy's sheath to contain the madness growing within the Himura's mind. I find myself at a difficult crossroads. Do I help my enemy? Or do I let him lapse into a fit of mental instability? The Battosai killed Akira but having been around him long enough I now believe that the boy dies inside each time he has to kill someone... dies every night and awakes to a darkness of the mind that will not leave him be. I feel sorry for him in that regard. What must it be like to see the faces of the men you've killed in your sleep? How frightening is it to hear their screams in your mind and be unable to escape it? No wonder he is going mad. So I will help him... even if he is my enemy... I will help him... I will become the sheath to stop his madness.

She heard footsteps approach and she quickly closed the diary, slipping it into her kimono as she returned to her work stitching up the tears in fabric, turning her head at the sound of the shoji door opening, finding the weary form of Himura standing there.

Kenshin lifted his head, finding Tomoe sitting there in the center of his room, stitching what appeared to be hakama pants and he murmured. "I'm sorry to have kept you waiting up so long."

"It is alright," Tomoe replied, her eyes tracking the Battosai's movement as he shuffled over to the window sill and sunk down to the floor. "Would you like me to bring you some food?"

"No thank you," Kenshin answered in a worn down voice. "I feel too tired to eat."

"You should rest then," She said, rising up, fabric gripped in her hands. "I'll go downstairs and continue my work there."

"You don't have to go," Kenshin murmured, voice nearly child-like as he turned his gaze in her direction. "I... don't mind you being here... like this..."

She heard the loneliness in his tone and she settled back down. "Very well." Tomoe murmured, picking up her needle and thread, humming softly as she picked up where she left off in her stitching.

Kenshin relaxed his features, shifting his head back around, staring at nothing, closing his eyes at the sound the girl's soft humming, his body going slack as he fell into the arms of sleep.

Tomoe continued her work until she'd finished, folding the pants neatly, laying them in the clothing tray beside a matching kimono and she rose, exiting the room, delivering the repaired items to their owner before heading back up the stairs. The girl returned to the room, closing the door behind her, going still at the sound of Kenshin's voice.

"Help... Help me... shishou..."

His features were drawn tight, his body trembling as if reliving some nightmare and Tomoe went over to the corner, picking up the folded blanket and she walked softly back towards him, recalling the conversation earlier with Katsura. You are the executioner of the mad justice your leader talked about... lethal and merciless... but seeing you asleep like this... crying out for help... you're like a lost child, aren't you? She stopped beside the boy, unfolding the blanket, moving in to lay it on his shivering form only to gasp in surprise as Kenshin's eyes snapped open, his blade drawn instantly, nearly pressing the sharp edge against her throat, angry eyes glaring at her, not seeing who it was before him.

Kenshin felt something heavy fall on him and he reacted instinctively, drawing his sword, his hand snatching fabric as he yanked his attacker towards him. His vision cleared, features horrified as he saw the frightened face of Tomoe staring at him. He let go of her kimono, snatching his weapon from her neck, pushing her away with more force than he intended. What have I done?! He snapped silently, panting as he tried to calm the racing beat of his heart. "I'm sorry! I... I didn't know it was you!" He dropped his gaze. "I said I would never hurt a civilian and look what I almost did!"

"But you didn't hurt me, Himura-san," Tomoe whispered in a consoling tone, lowering the blanket around the hitokiri. "Let me stay with you for a while and I'll be the sheath that stops the madness of your blade."

Kenshin looked at the blanket around him, pain on his features at how close he had come to striking her down though his voice softened. "Tomoe-san... I've thought of an answer to your question about me killing you if you had a sword that night in the rain."

Tomoe stood still, waiting as the boy continued.

"The answer is no. I wouldn't have killed you. No matter what the circumstances, I would not kill you... never you..."

And if you found out I was sent here to learn your weaknesses and help to bring about your death? She asked silently. Would you kill me then? Tomoe felt guilt creeping into her heart but kept her voice even. "I believe you, Himura-san," The girl moved back to the corner, unfolding a futon and laying it near the candle lamp still burning brightly. "That is why I want to help you overcome this darkness in your heart. So I will stay here a while longer until the madness in you dies."

He felt that warmth in his heart again and he lifted his hand, resting it against his chest. "I... I thank you... Tomoe-san... I would be sad to see you go... so you may stay as long as you wish to."

"Then it's settled," Tomoe replied. "Rest now, Himura-san." She whispered, crouching down to blow out the lamp before laying down on the futon, covering up with a blanket as she closed her eyes and tried to go to sleep.

Kenshin watched her for a few moments before his gaze shifted to the blanket around him. I... I think I care about her... more than I should... But it's nice... to have someone... who wants to stay with me... despite who and what I am. He thought, lowering his hand back to his side, closing his own eyes as he let sleep claim him and the nightmares faded.

Kohagiya July 8, 1864

Tomoe sat in the hitokiri's room, the flickering light dancing around the girl's features as she mended more torn clothing for the innkeeper. In the weeks following the incident with Kenshin, the girl had found he'd grown more relaxed and gentle in his manners around her. He was warming up to her in a way that she suspected to be of a more romantic nature and it made her mission all the more difficult. It was not my intention for him to fall in love with me. She rationalized in her mind. Though, he's said nothing on the matter, there is a light of tender emotion in his gaze when he looks at me. The same light I saw within Akira's eyes is carried now in the Battosai's. The sound of footsteps drew her attention to the shoji door, irritation filling her at the sight of I'zuka as he slid the door open and called out loudly,

"Hey, Himura! The Gion Festival is here! Me and the guys are heading there now and then we'll hit the red light..."

"Quiet please," Tomoe interjected in a more firm voice than she usually used. "Himura-san is sleeping right now and needs his rest."

I'izuka shifted his gaze from the girl over to the sleeping form of the hitokiri near the window sill. Well I'll be damned... he's actually sound asleep with someone else in the room. He turned his attention over to the girl, quirking an eyebrow at her protective behavior. Maybe the joke is no longer a joke. "Oh... right... sorry... I'll go..." He replied, sliding the door shut. The mustached man headed down the stairs sitting on the deck near the side gate of the inn, tilting his head up to the stars as he thought out loud, "Well... so what if they get along with each other? No skin off my nose..." He heard the gate door open and lowered his gaze to the large man that entered. "Hey there, Katakai-san, is the meeting over already?"

The bodyguard, bent over, catching his breath, skin slick with sweat from his non-stop running as he panted out, "The meeting! Something terrible has happened!"

Upstairs, Kenshin heard the shouting and his eyes bolted open.

Tomoe saw the troubled look on the boy's features and was about to ask what was wrong when the door to the room opened and I'izuka burst inside, followed by the large bodyguard for Katsura.

"Himura!"

The sight of Katakai brought the hitokiri to his feet. "What's going on? You're supposed to be protecting Katsura at the meeting, Katakai-san..."

"The secret meeting place at the Ikedaya was raided by the Shinsengumi tonight!"

Kenshin gasped.

"Someone had to have told those bastards where the meeting was!" I'izuka shouted.

"What happened to Katsura-san?!" The redhead demanded of the larger man.

"He was delayed from attending the meeting so the head of Tsushima was acting in his place," Katakai answered. "But Yoshida-san and Miyabe-san and the others... they were already at the meeting when it was raided!"

Fear and anger raced in the hitokiri's veins and he made for the door but was stopped by I'izuka. "Himura you can't go out there now! There are thousands of soldiers for the Bakufu lining the streets! If you leave and try to fight it will only make it worse for Choushuu!"

"I can't abandon Katsura-san!" Kenshin growled, his hand going to the tsuka of his blade but he went still at the feel of Tomoe's hand on his.

"There is nothing you can do now, Himura-san," Tomoe whispered. "You will only bring death on this night... to many people... and perhaps to yourself... I don't want you to leave here... and run into the arms of death... If you do that... I will have to come with you."

The hitokiri looked over at the girl, the thought of her seeing any more bloodshed cooled the fire in his eyes and he slowly drew his hand away from the hilt of his katana. "You know I can't let you be harmed, Tomoe..." He whispered.

"I know... that's why I want you to stay... and help your friends to think of what to do next."

"Don't worry about Katsura-san, Himura," I'izuka said, drawing the smaller man's attention. "He's safe for now but the girl is right. We'll have to plan our next moves very carefully."

Kenshin reached up to rub his forehead. "Very well. I will wait here until news arrives for our orders."

The two men left room, leaving Tomoe and Kenshin alone.

"You're afraid for your friends, aren't you?" The girl asked, moving to sit close to the hitokiri.

"Hai, I am. What happened tonight will set back Katsura's plans. I fear that when the news reaches Choushuu things could escalate," Kenshin answered as he looked over at her. "I may be called to fight and I will do so... but I don't like the thought of leaving you unprotected."

"I will be alright if it comes to that," Tomoe murmured. "But you will be careful if you have to go out and fight, right?"

His features softened. "I will return to you, Tomoe, I promise. I won't ever let anything happen to you."

Later on, while the girl slept, Kenshin remained awake, his mind unable to let him sleep, worried about what would come of this attack. Would the Kohagiya be next? He looked over at Tomoe, his features full of resolve. I will not let them hurt her... I will not let them take her from me. I will find a way to keep her safe. Even if I die in doing so.

July 9, 1864 on a street near the Ikedaya Incident

Kenshin stood with the rest of the crowd, watching the procession of the Shinsengumi as they made there way down the street. Their blue haori's were covered in splotches of blood. The blood of his fellow Ishin Shishi. Look at them marching like soldiers coming home from a glorious battle. He growled in his mind, wanting to answer the call for retribution but he kept still, his gaze following the tall man with the odd long bangs, sensing there was something different about him. The hitokiri kept his features impassive, even as he watched the tall one turn and glare back at him then smirk as if sizing him up for battle.

So, one beast recognizes another? Kenshin thought as the group passed. I feel I will have a run in with that man someday. The red head turned, heading back to the Kohagiya, wanting to put to ease any anxiety Tomoe would feel at his absence. He'd grown quite fond of the girl and missed being close to her. Was it love? The hitokiri didn't know but he liked the warmth in his heart when he thought of her much more than the coldness he felt when in battle. Was it wrong to find some bit of happiness in his miserable life? No matter what happens, I will stay by Tomoe's side. I will make sure she survives what might come. He vowed, knowing it was only a matter of time before the Ishin Shishi retaliated.

August 20, 1864 Kyoto near the Imperial Palace

Battle spread to the streets of Kyoto, over 3,000 soldiers from Choushuu marched towards the palace in an attempt to kidnap the emperor and restore his rule only to be met with superior resistance of over 20,000 Bakufu soldiers. Kenshin rushed in to help aid his compatriots, a whirlwind of lethal slashes as he struck down many who stood in his way. But the forces were too great and he was ordered to retreat. He was halfway back to the inn when the fires began, spreading rapidly, heat bursting around him as the streets erupted, knowing it was the work of some of his fellow Shishi supporters. He saw smoke in the distance and he frowned. That's near the Kohagiya. Oh no! Tomoe! The red head raced forward, reaching the inn as fast as his feet could carry him and he burst into the main entryway, seeing the girls and the innkeeper panic. "You've got to get out of here and flee the city now! Kyoto is on fire and you'll die if you stay!"

Okami needed no further urging. "Everyone gather what you can quickly and follow me!"

Kenshin raced up the stairway, yanking open the shoji door, frantic eyes falling on the worried form of Tomoe.

"What's wrong?" She asked, blinking when the hitokiri took hold of her hand and pulled her to him.

"We've got to leave here now!"

She didn't protest, following him out and down the stairs.

Kenshin kept running, pulling the girl along with him, fleeing the city as it was consumed by flame. By the time the fighting and the fire was over, 28,000 homes had been destroyed and many died, friend and foe alike.

The next day, the hitokiri stood on a bridge on the outskirts of the devastated city, Tomoe at his side as he spoke to the person wrapped in a mino at the foot of the bridge's center. "So the meeting at the Ikedaya was all about using the fire as a cover for the kidnapping of the emperor and you were the only one opposed to such an outrage."

"Hai," Katsura answered, keeping his gaze forward as he spoke. "I survived by what Katakai called heaven's decree. But mostly it was sheer luck that I was delayed for the meeting," The older man sighed. "And now the Kyoto Choushuu faction is destroyed. We've been labeled enemies of the emperor," He paused, lowering his gaze. "I cannot go back to Hagi now. I have to remain in hiding until the provincial government back home becomes more favorable to our plight."

Kenshin frowned. "We should go into hiding as well."

"I agree," Katsura replied. "That's why I've arranged for a safe house near the village of Otsu for the two of you until things settle down. I'll contact you through I'zuka and keep you up to date with what's going on," He rose, voice softening as he asked, "Tomoe-san?"

"Yes?" She said in an equally soft voice, wondering what the man wanted to say to her.

"Would you stay with Himura a while? A young married couple will raise less suspicion than a man living alone," Katsura began to walk away. "Of course it will be just for show," He stopped, calling out over his shoulder. "Look after him, will you?" The leader continued walking through the burned debris.

Kenshin remained standing, watching his leader go, making sure he was safely away before he asked, "What do you wish to do, Tomoe-san?"

"Well, I... I don't have anywhere to go... but I know Katsura-san was right... the cover of a married couple is less suspicious than you by yourself."

The red head smiled softly, turning to study her with fond eyes. "It doesn't have to be for show, Tomoe..." He said tenderly, dropping the honorific, enjoying the rare sight of emotion from the girl's eyes and the faint blush on her cheeks. "Even if it's only for a little while... we can be together... as husband and wife."

Tomoe didn't know what to say. This man... the one who stole her happiness... was offering a new happiness in its place. I can't very well leave him now... not after what's happened... and I still have my mission... but... I... I don't know if I... can follow through with it anymore... "Hai... together... Kenshin..." She replied, dropping the honorific in return for his own sentiment.

Kenshin felt a great warmth in his heart and he reached out, taking her hand in his, leading her away from the destruction of their old life, traveling along a hopeful path that would lead to a brighter and more peaceful future.

Whew, another chapter completed. Nothing very exciting I know but we're edging close to the end of Remembrance and back to the present. Hopefully this was pleasant enough for everyone to read. If you did liked it, please take the time to leave a few lines. I always enjoy reading what people think or like in relation to what is written.