Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction ❯ Love and Vengeance ❯ Tragedy ( Chapter 15 )

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

Another update! Hope everyone enjoys it!

Chapter 15-Tragedy

Late December, 1864 The Binding Forest

Tomoe approached the narrow entrance into the Binding Forest at a slowed clip, tightening the shawl around her shivering frame as an icy whirlwind swirled around, stinging her with hardened bits of snow. She winced at the pinpricks of pain but continued onward, undaunted by the elements that seemed hellbent on slowing her down. I will not stop and I will not relent. I will save Kenshin from this mission, no matter what the cost. With cautious steps, she began her trek into the wood, the dense forest cutting of the wind, the air now oppressive and silent but the lady knew she was being watched, doing her best to remain calm, even as a short whistle suddenly erupted in the still air.

Center of Binding Forest

"Boss, the signal!" Nakajo cried as he jumped down from the nearby tree, eyes shining with glee. "The woman must be here!"

"So she is," Tatsumi murmured. Good, now to follow through with the next phase of our plan. Turning to his right, the big man called out, "Enishi!"

The boy emerged from the run down shack, a hopeful look on his face to equal the tone of his voice as he replied, "I heard the signal, that means my sister's on her way here, right?"

"That's right, kid," Tatsumi said as he drew out a folded slip of white paper from beneath his sleeveless shirt then handed it to the child. "That means it's time to spring the bait on the Battosai. Are you ready to do this?"

Enishi snatched the paper, tucking it into his dirtied kimono. "Hai, I'll go right away and deliver this!"

"That's great, kid... Now off with you... and hurry back... you don't want to miss the main event do you?"

"I'll hurry!" Enishi cried out, pivoting around, racing off and around as he took the safe path that would take him out of the forest and onto the main path that lead beyond town and into the countryside where the farmhouse lay.

Tatsumi watched the kid go, turning his head back around as Nakajo spoke,

"That brat is lucky his sister came when she did. Another day late and I would have finished him off myself."

"Patience, Nakajo," Tatsumi said in a deep tone. "Let us see what the woman has to say first before sprouting off about what we you would do," Crossing his arms, he added, "Go to Tomoe and escort her here. I don't need her triggering anything before we can use it on the Battosai."

"Right!" Nanjako replied as he rushed into the darkened forest, leaving his leader alone to his thoughts.

Just inside the Binding Forest

Tomoe spied movement up ahead and she came to a dead stop, her eyes falling on a lean figure dressed in the traditional black uniform of the shinobi, recognizing him as Nakajo.

"Lost your way have you, woman?"

She hid her displeasure at his taunt, replying in a soft voice, "I've come to see Tatsumi."

"Follow me." Nakajo replied, turning away from her, motioning her to follow with a wave of his hand.

She walked behind the dark clad shinobi as he led her past the various... perils of the woods, stepping out into a small opening, the air light and cold, fluffs of white dancing in the air as they floated down to settle on the grassy ground around her feet. Her eyes were drawn to the imposing bearded man who sat outside a rundown shack. "Tatsumi..." She murmured, as she came to a stop a few feet before the leader of the ninja clan.

"You are late, woman..." Tatsumi said gruffly, dark eyes narrowed as asked, "What news do you bring about Battosai?"

Tomoe steeled her resolve, brushing off his rough tone, keeping hers even as she countered with a question of her own. "Before I answer, tell me where Enishi is?"

Of course she'd ask about the brat first. "Your brother is currently fulfilling his duty to our mission, which is more than I can say for you..." He scowled, glaring at the girl. "You were supposed to return with Enishi yesterday, so why did you not come here straight away?"

His accusation bristled and part of her feared he already knew the truth. "I couldn't leave while Himura was still awake, he would have gone to the village and gathered the townspeople to help search for me. I didn't want to cause unneeded complications to the mission."

But Tatsumi was well aware something was off in the girl's words and actions. I'izuka claims the Battosai has weakened... because of his love for you... but I will play along a bit longer... to see just how deep your loyalty lies to the hitokiri. "Hmph... well, in any case, what news do you have to bring about Himura? What are his weaknesses?"

Weaknesses... Tomoe thought... His weakness is that he is not a coldhearted killer... he is too kind and gentle to ever be like you. She commented silently as her mind quickly formed an answer. "When he's awake, Himura has no weakness... but when he's sleeping, he's vulnerable to attack, like any other swordsman."

Tatsumi studied the woman with skeptical eyes, noting her mask of calm indifference. She plays this game well, I'll give her that, but I've played the game longer than anyone and know how to exploit situations to my benefit. "In all the time you've been in his presence that's all the intelligence you could gather on him? That he is vulnerable when he's asleep... I find that rather hard to believe."

A wave of unease washed over her but Tomoe kept her composure. "I am answering your question with what I know. Himura's only weakness is when he's asleep."

Tatsumi remained unconvinced. "His only weakness... are you sure about that?"

Tomoe frowned at the change in his tone. "Yes, I'm certain," She replied then switched gears as she asked, "Can I please see Enishi now?"

"I'm afraid that's impossible," Tatsumi said. "Enishi's currently on a mission and is not due back until it is completed."

"Mission?"

"A mission of great importance," Tatsumi confirmed. "He's delivering an invitation ..." He added, uncrossing his arms as he rose, a grin spreading upon his bearded features. "An invitation that the Battosai will be unable to refuse."

On the Path to the farmhouse

Puffs of white air exploded past Enishi's lips as he leapt out of the forest and hit the ground running, billows of snow flying in his wake as he made his way towards the hitokiri's farmhouse. Determination gave speed to his steps, undeterred by the icy cold of his soaked tabi socks, slowing only when he'd reached his destination, cautious brown eyes falling on the outline of his enemy's home and he stopped, panting as he tried to catch his breath. He swept his gaze around the area, looking for some sign of the Battosai's presence. When no sound met his ears and no visual threat presented itself, Enishi crept up to the door of the house, drawing out the note tucked in his kimono. He was supposed to deliver the letter to the Battosai. But I can't do that in person... he'll figure out nee-san is part of the plan and hurt her.

He lowered his gaze, searching for something to aid in his endeavor, spying a good sized rock to his right and he shifted, crouching down to scoop up the gray stone. Going back to the front of the door, he swept the snow away with his zori then lay the note down, securing it with the rock. He rose and backed away. There's no way Battosai will miss this. Grinning at his work, Enishi whirled around and raced back down the path, ducking behind a nearby set of trees and settled in, peering around the side of the trunk, knowing it was only a matter of time before the hitokiri woke up and went out to search for his wife. Just a little bit longer, nee-san and we can go home together.

Center of Binding Forest

Tomoe caught the sinister look in Tatsumi's eye and his grin, a rising fear growing in her heart. An invitation... He's inviting Kenshin... to come here... so he can kill him. Her body was on the edge of flight, wanting to warn her husband of the danger. I had hoped to end this before it came to that, but Tatsumi has outmaneuvered me and used my own brother to set in motion the final stage of the plan. Her mind commanded her to hold firm, to not give in to the mounting pressure she felt starting to bear down on her will and spirit. "An invitation... for Kenshin to come here..."

Tatsumi's tilted his head to the side as he stared down at her. "So it's Kenshin now, is it? Why would you refer to your enemy by his given name, unless of course he were special to you... and you to him."

The color drained from Tomoe's face. He knows... He knows how I feel about Kenshin and how Kenshin feels about me... but... but how? Realization struck her then. I'izuka must have told him something... something about how Kenshin reacted around me... and how fond I acted around him. "I.. I don't know what you're talking about."

"Oh, but I think you do," Tatsumi countered, unconvinced at her bluff. "You performed your duties exactly as I intended you to do, woman. You stayed with the Battosai... you grew close to him and he fell in love with you, making my job all the more easier to eliminate him."

Tomoe stifled the scream of panic rising in her throat, backing up as Tatsumi advanced then stopped, turning his back to her as he stared out at the trees. "You are his weakness, Tomoe... and I'm going to exploit that weakness to cut down the Ishin Shishi's greatest swordsman..." He smirked, taunting her as he added, "And it's all thanks to you."

All this time... I was nothing more than a method of creating a weakness for Kenshin... Instead of keeping him safe... I've drawn him into a trap! She reached into her kimono, her hand shaking as it wrapped around the hilt of her tanto. I may not be able to do much, but if I can take out one of them... then Kenshin may survive yet. Without thought of her own safety, Tomoe leaped at Tatsumi, tanto outstretched, aiming for his back but the ninja was too fast and too strong, lashing out with his right arm, the back of his hand smashing into the side of the lady's head, the force knocking Tomoe off her feet, sending her rocketing backward and her small frame crashed into the ground, her head snapping up from the impact.

"Stupid girl, I knew you'd do something like this..." Tatsumi growled, lowering his hand to his side. "Your lies cannot fool a ninja like me..." He snapped his gaze away from the girl, looking over to Kajako, who asked,

"What do you want to do with her, boss?"

The bearded man looked down at the crumpled form of Tomoe. "Put her in the shack. We'll deal with her later," Tatsumi turned his attention back to the woods, voice commanding as he shouted orders for his men. "Everyone take your positions! Battosai will be here soon so let's greet him like the shadow ninjas we are!"

Tomoe felt her body being yanked off the ground, the cold kiss of the snow gone, replaced by the damp smell of earth and cedar as she was dropped unceremoniously in a confined space. The sound of wood creaking reached her ears before a looming silence pressed down on her. She wanted to get up... wanted to do something to warn her husband but her body would not cooperate. Tears of frustration rolled down her cheeks at her fatigue and her weakness. I'm sorry, Kenshin... I failed you... and Enishi.. Her eyelids grew heavy, darkness flooding her vision and she surrendered to its seductive call, growing still as she felt and saw no more.

The farmhouse

It was the sound of the wind that awoke Kenshin, a mournful melancholy cry that rattled the shoji door and the hitokiri stirred, shivering a bit from the chill and he reached out for his wife, seeking extra warmth only to frown as his hand met emptiness. His handsome features morphed into a confused look and his eyelids fluttered open, finding that he was alone in the room. "Tomoe?" He called out softly, brow furrowing at the silence that met his ears. Kenshin drew the covers off and rose to his feet, rounding the corner to enter the main room, casting his gaze around the small interior but his wife was nowhere to be found. Where are you, Tomoe?

The wind rattled the door again and Kenshin pivoted around, studying the wooden frame. If she wasn't inside... she could only be outside... Still dressed in his yukata, the redhead stepped down, slipping on his zori and shuffled to the door, sliding it open, greeted by the sight of white that blanketed the land and he lowered his gaze at the tracks leading away from his door, frowning at the gray stone near his feet. Something long and white lay beneath the rock and he crouched down, lifting the stone to grab the paper. He opened it, eyes widening at the message scrawled in black:

We have your woman, Battosai. If you value her life, follow the map below and we will settle our grudge once and for all.

His heart and mind reeled, remembering Tomoe's words last night. I entered a plot to end your life. Was this the plot? Had they taken her hostage in order to draw him out into the open? It doesn't matter. I have to save Tomoe and bring her home! He slammed the door shut, shaking off his zori as he raced over to the storage box, yanking off his yukata, tossing it aside as he drew out his blue kimono and white hakama pants. Dressing quickly, Kenshin tied two black leather bracers on his forearms then grabbed his katana and wakizashi, stuffing them underneath his obi. He marched over to his zori, slipping them on and yanked the door open, stepping out into the cold morning air. Hardened eyes swept the farmland before him, anger festering in his heart. Someone had delivered this note... someone that could be watching him at this moment, waiting to see what he would do. I don't have time to track them down. I have to save Tomoe. Growling, Kenshin opened the note, glaring at the directions, heading down the path away from the farmhouse and towards the location marked on the hand drawn map.

Enishi watched the hitokiri leave, grinning at the note clutched in the redhead's hand. Yes! He's on his way now! The boy waited until the Battosai was well out of sight then whirled around, racing back the way he came, disappearing into the thickened woodland, making for the secret entrance of the Binding Forest, his heart at one with his mind. Today the Battosai will die and nee-san and I can finally head back to Edo and forget about this miserable place! He jumped over a fallen tree trunk, the desire to watch his enemy pay for his crimes driving him to fly across the snow laden ground. Hang on, nee-san, just a bit longer and I'll be with you!

Binding Forest entrance

Snow fell from the low hanging clouds, choking out the sun, the flakes dancing in the swirling air, biting at Kenshin's face, turning the flesh red but he ignored the stinging pain, eyes focused intently on the narrowed entrance between two massive walls of trees. He knew he was walking into a trap and he didn't care. I will kill every last one of them if they try to keep Tomoe from me. Steeling his resolve, Kenshin tossed the note aside and started forward, entering the forest with cautious steps, frowning at the oppressive and still air. The silence was eerie, the lack of birds or other sounds of nature was unsettling. There's something not right about this place. The hitokiri thought as he stalked forward down the small path. He tried to focus but found it difficult and he slowed his steps, looking around in confusion. It's like I'm... lost... in some kind of bad dream... and I can't gain... my bearings at all... What the hell kind of forest is this?

Something whooshed through the air above him and the hitokiri reacted instinctively, whirling back and away, wincing as steel bit into the skin of his left arm, blood spurting from the wound. He crouched down then righted himself, a dark look marring his features as his angered eyes fell upon a man clad in the black uniform of a shinobi.

"Hmph... You move pretty fast for a dead man..." Nakajo taunted, smirking under his half mask. "Welcome to the Binding Forest, Battosai..."

Kenshin merely glared at the ninja as Nakajo continued.

" I can see the surprise and the anger on your face, Battosai..." The shinobi replied. "Want to know how I was able to sneak up on you, eh?" he paused, making a waving gesture with his sword. "This forest has a magnetic field that only those who have trained in it can understand and navigate. It's so strong that animals cannot live here... and your abilities as a swordsman are now rendered useless."

That explains the heavy air and the lack of noise. Kenshin commented silently, studying the enemy with a critical eye. He's a shinobi... a mover in shadows... relaying on stealth to kill his opponents... but he's out in the open now... and vulnerable to my blade. Desperate to reach Tomoe, and annoyed at the ninja's lecture, Kenshin reached up with his left hand to grip the saya, flicking his thumb against the hand guard, the clicking sound of his katana echoing in the silence as he shot forward with blinding speed, drawing out his weapon, surprising the ninja as he slashed out and shouted, "Do you really think it matters to me?!"

The blade struck home, slicing through the thin black fabric of Nakajo's uniform, blood exploding from the split flesh. Nakajo cried out in pain, clutching his chest as he stumbled into a nearby tree trunk. "What the... ahhh!" He screamed as Kenshin kicked out, slamming the bottom of his zori into the wound, forcing the man to collapse onto the ground.

The redhead stood over him, katana pointed down, hate filled eyes as dark and deep as his voice. "I made a promise to Tomoe to protect her happiness," He growled. "I will keep that promise no matter what may come and neither you or anyone else will stop me from taking her home," It would be easy enough to cut this man down but I do not know my way through this forest and I... I don't really want to kill anyone if I can avoid it. Perhaps if I give him an option, he may take the safer way out. Kenshin lifted his sword, pointing it directly at Kajako's chest. "So I will give you a choice, ninja. Will you take me Tomoe... or will you die here?"

The shinobi kept his hand over the wound across his chest, blood seeping through his fingers. This man... this man could have killed me with that attack. But his blade stopped short... that means his senses are off! A grin spread under the ninja's mask. I can do this.. I know I can! Lowering his right arm, his left suddenly shot up, the sound of something mechanical whining in the still air. "Here's my answer, Battosai!"

Something thin slammed into Kenshin's shoulder and the redhead's eyes widened, gasping at the flare of pain, panting a bit, snapping his head up as the ninja began to laugh.

"Hah! I knew it!" Nakajo shouted gleefully. "You're weak, Battosai! The forest has already dulled your senses! You've lost your instincts as a swordsman! You can't win here!"

His anger was growing, the delay in reaching Tomoe driving his controlled rage and he reached up, grabbing the small metal arrow, too enraged to feel pain as he yanked out the invading steel, tossing it violently aside. "It doesn't matter!" He roared, flicking his blade to the side then up, the katana slicing through Nakajo's wrists in one swift blow.

The ninja screamed as his severed hands went flying into the air. Blood pumped out, staining the ground red as he scrambled and fled, heading towards a cave.

Kenshin watched the ninja tear off, looking down at the severed hands. Running away, are you? Not for long. The hitokiri reached down, sweeping the cut appendages into his hands before following the blood trail, coming to a stop behind the collapsed shinobi. "You forgot these..." He called out coldly, tossing the severed hands at Nakajo's feet.

Nakajo blinked, staring down at the bloody body parts.. his body parts... He cut my hands off so effortlessly, despite losing his instincts. There is no way I can defeat him now.

The hitokiri studied the ninja with dark eyes, his voice icy and clipped, growing impatient at the delays in finding his wife. "Tell me where Tomoe is and I will make your death quick."

The shinobi looked up, gritting his teeth. Bastard... you rotten bastard... You may have killed me... but your suffering has just begun! "There is a path to the right when you leave this cave... that will take you to where she is..." His answered, buying time as his gaze shifted slightly over to the rope near his feet, eyes following as it led back to three wooden barrels. "But you won't make it that far, Battosai... there are three more waiting to take you down," He rose up, shuffling his foot to the left, toes catching the knot as he continued. "We of the dark arts will never accept anything less than victory," He kicked up, yanking the rope high into the air, tugging it violently from the barrels as he shouted, "Even in death I will be a barrier to you, Battosai!"

Shock marred Kenshin's features as the barrels exploded, rocking the cave, the flames shooting towards the hitokiri and he took off at full speed, attempting to outrun the destructive fire that roared at his back. I can't let it end like this, I won't let them have Tomoe! His desire to survive and rescue his wife boosted his adrenaline and he pushed forward towards the light at the end of the tunnel. The heat was unbearable, sucking away the oxygen, making it hard to breathe but he pressed on, knowing he had only one choice left to make. Kami-sama give me strength! Focusing his will, Kenshin braced himself, power surging in his legs as he leapt, the fire snapping and snarling as the redhead vaulted safely out of its reach and landed into a rolling stop.

Kenshin jumped to his feet, staring at the orange and red tendrils as they continued to scream and rage at their lost prey. He let out a sigh of relief. That was a close one. His thoughts shifted to the now dead ninja and he shook his head in disgust. "What a sore loser..." His eyebrows knotted at the muffled sound of his own voice and he lifted his hand to his ear and looked around, realization hitting him. So that's what he was trying to do. The explosion messed up my hearing, making it difficult for me to navigate by sound. Clever bastard. What other tricks do they have in store for me? Kenshin wondered as he lowered his arm to his side, watching the smoke plume rise, spine stiffening as he heard someone speak, though he had to strain to make out the words.

"You have lost your swordsman's intuition and your hearing... two of your six senses are incapacitated..."

Kenshin turned slowly to his right, narrowed eyes studying the imposing form of a ninja clad man, his hands clutching a massive axe. "None of that matters to me... I will not be stopped... no matter how many tricks you use against me. I will not lose... to any of you."

"Bold words for a dead man," Sumita shot back as he shifted his axe and rushed forward. "Here I come, Battosai!"

The hitokiri lifted his katana, frowning as the brute swung his axe in wide arcs, tearing apart the surrounding trees. What kind of tactic is this? He wondered, jumping up and away as the debris shot towards him only to gasp as he felt something sharp slam into the muscle between his neck and shoulder, slicing deep, blood spewing from the gaping wound and he grit his teeth as he whirled around and landed. He caught a flash of black then nothing. So the destruction of the trees was a distraction to hide your comrade's attack... That's fine by me. I can take care of both of you at once. Kenshin ignored the throbbing pain in his shoulder and charged forward, lifting his katana as he leapt into the air, reading to cut down the larger man.

That's it, Battosai, Sumita thought, lifting his axe. Come to me... you'll be all the more vulnerable to Yatsume's overhead attack.

Got you! Kenshin shouted silently, swinging down with his blade, gasping as something solid slammed into the back of his head and the hitokiri stumbled, landing awkwardly. He straightened his back then pivoted around angrily. Was he being attacked by the same person as before? Or was it another kind of trap? His shook his head to clear the double vision, his ears picking up what he thought was the sound of rope swinging and his eyes narrowed. So that's how you're tracking and attacking me is it? His ears picked up another sound of something flying through the air and he snapped his gaze over his shoulder, a start of surprise exploding from his lips as a large piece of broken tree trunk shot towards him, smashing into his small form, nearly knocking him off his feet, but the hitokiri slammed his katana into the ground to stop his fall. I will not lose... I will not lose to them! I must find Tomoe and take her home with me! Gritting his teeth, Kenshin braced himself then rushed forward, yanking the katana out of the ground.

He moved with a speed that shocked Sumita, the large man's gasp shifted into a scream as he felt the cold steel of the smaller male's sword cut clean through his legs. The ninja collapsed onto the ground, blood pumping from the devastating injury.

Kenshin stumbled from the force of his own attack, catching himself with his katana. I'm growing weaker... I need... I need to get to Tomoe before I pass out. He pushed up, rising to his full height, a muffled sound meeting his ears and he shifted at the very last instant, dodging the sharpened gauntlet that aimed for his head, watching as the metallic daggers slammed into the tree trunk.

"NO!" Yatsume roared as he gripped at his embedded hand. He's seen me! I have to move now!

But Kenshin had other ideas. Drawing out his wakizashi, the hitokiri lashed out, thrusting the blade into the struggling ninja's gauntlet, piercing through metal, flesh, and bone, effectively pinning the fully clad ninja to the tree. "Wait here... I'll deal with you in a minute..."

Yatsume screamed and thrashed, yanking at the wakizashi. "You bastard! You've seen me! No one's every seen my face and lived to tell about it!" He kicked off the tree, breaking free of the short blade's hold, climbing up the rope as he hissed. "This isn't over, Battosai! One day... when you least expect it... I will be there... and I will kill you!"

Kenshin watched impassively as the dark clad shinobi fled. Hmph... another coward... good riddance.

Sumita stared up at the redhead with surprise and wonderment. This man... this man is nothing like the battosai we investigated. He's so reckless... and emotional... you cannot assassinate people with such behavior. So why? Why is he fighting like this? The answer came to the dying man when the hitokiri turned and asked,

"Where is my wife? Where is Tomoe?"

Of course... the girl... he truly loves the girl... no one would risk their lives like this unless it were out of love and concern. "She's at the end of the path... along with the last of our clan..."

Kenshin features tightened and he stalked past the fallen shinobi, stopping when the larger man yelled,

"Wait! You forgot something!"

The red head frowned, turning. "What is it?"

Sorry, hitokiri... I can't let you go any further without doing this... Sumita said inwardly as he reached down, pulling at a metallic pin. "The third barrier!" He answered, yanking the pin free.

Kenshin gasped as a blinding explosion erupted in front of him, the force knocking the redhead off his feet. He flew backwards, crashing violently onto the ground, smoke billowing from the crater sized hole in the ground. What the hell was that?! He snarled silently, clutching his head as a bout of dizziness hit him. Opening his eyes, he blinked, frowning at the darkness before him. I've been blinded... that flash... that must be the third barrier. My intuition, hearing, and now my sight are crippled. I know that if I sit here for a while, everything will go back to normal but I can't. I have to save Tomoe! Clutching the hilt of his katana tightly, Kenshin rose to his feet. Hang on, Tomoe, just a little bit longer and I will be there!

The hill above the center of the Binding Forest

Some distance away from the site of the second blast, Enishi paused, looking down from the hill. The secret path, while free of any tricks and traps, took longer to navigate and the boy knew he was running late. They must be fighting Battosai now! He rushed forward, ignoring the stinging whips of the brush as he tore through them then headed down the hill. Hang on, nee-san! I'll be there soon and we can go home!

Near the shack

Despite his dulled senses, Kenshin pressed onward, blindly racing through the wood, knowing it was only a matter of time before something bad happened to his wife. The leader of this group must know I've killed his men... He will take it out on Tomoe if I do not hurry! He gave no thought of his own safety, desperation and anger fueling the strength in his legs, giving him greater speed, and he felt a change in terrain, slowing to a stop, hand reaching out to rest on a nearby tree. His breathing was labored, the cold air filling his lungs, the oppressiveness that bore down on him lessened and the hitokiri knew he'd reached his destination. Despite his muffled hearing, a sound registered and he called out, voice low and dangerous. "Where is she?"

Tatsumi stood before the rundown shack, surprised to see the Battosai emerge from the darkened wood. He could see the younger man's bloodied face and body, fatigue evident in his features and the leader of the Yaminobu smirked. So my men did indeed became barriers to you, eh, Battosai? Good. That means I can beat you without much effort. "The woman is the least of your concern, boy. After all, you'll be dead in a few moments. Might as well prepare to meet your maker."

Anger festered in the hitokiri's heart at the delay in knowing the fate of the one most precious to him, the violence barely contained, threatening to burst from within and he roared, "WHERE IS SHE?!"

Tatsumi laughed at the hitokiri's outburst. "So quick to save the girl, are you, Battosai? Foolish, really. She never loved you... she was just part of the plan to weaken you... and you are weak, Battosai... you will die here... and your death will make me famous... Tokugawa will lavish me with gold when this is all over."

Kenshin features hardened at the man's taunt. "The death is yours..." He growled. "You're nothing but a coward, too weak to fight me at full strength, so you use Tomoe to lure me in and then bombard my senses with targeted attacks to wear me down. Well I've got news for you. I don't need perfect vision to kill you, you scheming bastard," He taunted back, lifting his katana in the middle position. "So if it's death you seek, come closer and I'll give it to you."

"Hah! You can't see, sense, or hear me very well and you think you can kill me like that?! You're even more naive than you look, Battosai!" Tatsumi roared, right arm cocked back as he charged forward.

Kenshin kept his blade up, taking a defensive stance, still too blind to see which way his opponent would attack, gasping as a forearm smashed viciously into his throat, nearly crushing his windpipe. The force knocked the hitokiri off his feet and his small form shot backwards, slamming into the trunk of a nearby tree. Air exploded from his lungs and the redhead struggled to breathe, rising on shaky legs, clutching his throat as he glared in the direction of the larger man.

"Hurts doesn't? Another blow like that and you'll be dead, Battosai."

"It... It doesn't matter what you say... or what you do..." Kenshin croaked out, features hardened as he rubbed his throat and lifted his blade. "I will save Tomoe from you... and end this revenge once and for all."

Tatsumi was surprised at the boy's words. How did he know about that? Unless... The fighter looked over at the shack where Tomoe lay hidden inside. So you told him did you? And he still came to rescue you... seems the hitokiri loves you after all.

Inside the Shack

Noises drew Tomoe out of the darkness of her unconscious mind and her eyelids fluttered open. Pushing off the floor, the lady shifted to a sitting position then winced at the pulsating pain that radiated along her jaw. What... what happened? Where am I? Her gaze swept the unkempt room before falling on the unsheathed tanto beside her and she reached out, clutching the hilt of the dagger, memory returning to her. That's right... I was trying to stop Tatsumi from hurting Kenshin... The noises grew louder and Tomoe snapped her head to the left, whimpering at the flare of pain from the sudden movement but she continued to stare. Someone is fighting... does that mean... that Kenshin is here?!

She rose up, stumbling a bit as a wave of dizziness hit her, catching herself near the broken door, peering through the crack, breath catching in her throat at the sight of Akira standing in the shadows. But... But he's dead... It can't be! She rubbed her eyes, clearing her vision, finding Kenshin standing in Akira's place. I'm imagining things... but... my love... my love for Akira... and my love for Kenshin... I carry both in my heart... that's why... I must save him... I will stop this cycle of death... with my own death if I have to. Resolved to her fate, Tomoe snuck out through the side entrance and made ready to make her move.

Outside the Shack

Tatsumi's assault on the hitokiri was relentless, striking his arms, his legs, his chest, and his face with several powerful blows. I'm going to kill you, you little runt, and there's not much you can do about it. He thought gleefully only to grunt as Kenshin's managed to land a hit, slicing open the skin above his heart. The fighter jumped back and away, ignoring the stinging pain from the shallow cut, smirking as he spoke in a mocking tone. "Seems you've lost your sense of touch as well. You're wearing down, Battosai. You're weak, tired, and dulled. You cannot win like this."

Kenshin remained standing, though his legs were shaky and his body was starting to shut down. I've lost so much blood... and I can't see or hear much of anything. I don't know how much longer I can go on like this. "So I can't win... so be it." He murmured, lowering his blade to the side. I will die here but I will also take you with me. Determined to sacrifice himself, Kenshin made ready. I am sorry I could not be with you, Tomoe... forgive me for what I'm about to do.

Tomoe stood at the edge of the shack, her heart falling at the sight of the hitokiri's physical condition. He's never been this beat up before. What did they do to you, Kenshin? The mention of dulled senses answered her question. So you cannot see, hear, or feel because of their tricks... you can't win like this, love. She caught movement from the leader of the Yaminobu and panic filled her. He's going to kill Kenshin! He can't see what's coming! Without thought of her own safety, Tomoe rushed to cut off Tatsumi and lifted her hands in an effort to protect her husband.

Kenshin charged forward, katana outstretched, reacting to the sound of feet rushing towards him and he slashed down, his blade biting into soft flesh, the scream of a woman piercing the silence, the scent of white plum fillng the air, surprise and shock bursting across his features. I know this scent.. it's...

Tomoe! Enishi screamed silently, skidding to a stop behind a tree. He had ran as hard as he could to reach the shack in time, expecting to see the Battosai dead and his sister ready to leave. But the vision of the Battosai's katana slashing down, slicing through his sister like she were tissue paper, froze him in his spot, the blood... Oh Kami... the blood... like a fountain, exploding from Tomoe's back... Her scream as she was cut down... it was too much for his young mind to process and he broke down, unable to handle the grisly scene, his boyish features shifting in a look of complete desolation. Enishi's legs buckled and he collapsed, eyes fixed on the blood pooling underneath his sister's dying body, tears springing to his eyes as his mind screamed what his mouth could not voice. She's dead, she dead, SHE'S DEAD! Nee-san... we were... we were supposed to go home together! Battosai was supposed to die... not you.. NOT YOU!

Kenshin could not see or sense Enishi, too consumed with the sudden fear that sprang in his heart to realize the boy was nearby. White plum... why do I smell white plum? Something sliced against his left cheek, the blood trickling down his neck and pooling into the collar of his blue kimono. His vision cleared, his fear growing to despair, eyes widening in shock and horror as he spied his wife collapsed onto the ground at his feet, bleeding out from the lethal cut of his blade. Kami-sama, what have I done?! His hand shook, the katana falling by the wayside as he dropped to his knees, heart and mind shattering as a scream of anguish erupted from his throat. "Tomoe! Why... why did you... why did you do this?! You were supposed to live on! I wanted you to live on!"

His words broke her dying heart and the lady felt his strong hands pull her into his lap, her gaze unfocused as she stared up at the tortured features of her husband. Tomoe reached up with her left hand, wiping at the tears rolling down his cheeks, a soft and loving smile tugging at her lips, wanting to ease his suffering. "Shh... it's alright... don't cry..." She felt something then... a presence calling out to her, the familiar voice of her first love, and her smile grew softer still. "I have to go... He's waiting for me... but you... you must be strong... remember... your promise... Goodbye... Ken...shin..."

"Don't go..." He pleaded desperately. "Don't go, Tomoe... stay with me... you've got to stay..." The girl's hand fell from his cheek, her body growing still and he knew she was gone. "No... it's not right... it can't be right... How can it be alright with you dead, Tomoe?!" He began to cry anew, body wracked with sobs as he cradled her in his arms. Lost in his grief, he remained beside his beloved, his head resting against hers, even as the air grew cold and snow began to fall heavily, blanketing the lifeless form of Tatsumi and hiding the blood that stained the ground at his feet. Tomoe's blood. He looked down at his wife, features dark with pain at the reality of her loss. Tomoe... I loved you... I loved you with all my heart... and I killed you... I killed you with my own hands... I'm sorry... so sorry, my love. Tears mingled with blood along his battered face but he paid no mind, shoulders dropping as he rose, cradling Tomoe in his weary arms. "Let's go home, Tomoe..."

His steps were slow and clumsy as he began the trek back towards the farmhouse. Snow danced around Kenshin as he hobbled through the mass of trees. He kept his gaze ahead, unsure if he were following the right path. Each breath burned, each step ached, and his legs began to shake. He felt tired... so damn tired... His zori struck a fallen branch hidden in the snow and he stumbled, crying out as he crashed forward. Tomoe slipped out of his grip, rolling in the newly fallen snow, red mixing with white, and he lay face down for several moments. The stinging cold bit at the heated skin on his wounded left cheek and he closed his eyes, drawn to the call of darkness that threatened to overwhelm his mind. I do not deserve to live... Why should I get to live when the one person I love died... killed at the hands of a murderer... killed by me! He was inconsolable in his grief and he lay there, wishing for death to come and take him away from all this pain.

Remember your promise... Kenshin?

The hitokiri's eyelids snapped open at the sound of Tomoe's voice in his mind. He lifted his head, studying the lifeless form of his wife. His promise... What was his promise?

You must live on... Kenshin... live... to protect the happiness of others... live to sheathe your blade... to stop killing and start protecting... that is my happiness... that is what I wish for you to do... So get up, love... Get up and live..

Kenshin didn't know if it was truly Tomoe's voice that spoke to him... of if it was his own consciousness. But I cannot linger like this... I cannot save others... If I cannot even save myself... For you, Tomoe... I will live on... and keep my promise to you... His arms shook as he pushed off the snow crusted ground, finding enough strength to crawl over to his dead wife. The redhead pulled her back into his arms, rising once more. Just a bit longer, Tomoe, and we'll be home. With great effort, Kenshin shuffled through the snow, slowly moving forward until he reached the cold and darkened farmhouse.

Kenshin cremated Tomoe's body according to the old ways, the roaring fire illuminating his grief stricken features and he remained standing, even as the fire died out and his wife's body was no more. Goodbye, my love. Someday I will see you again... for now... rest in peace... Tomoe... Dawn came and with it, the most important task and the hitokiri gathered the ashes of his beloved, placing them in a simple urn for safekeeping until he could bury her properly. Days turned to weeks, the hitokiri morning her death in solitude, his heart broken from the loss of his wife. He would sit for hours, staring at the fire pit... the memories of his life with her overshadowed by the repeated sight of her body falling to his blade, bleeding out, dead by his own hand. Kenshin was so consumed with his grief that he cared little for his own comfort. His appetite was gone... his body worn down from the daily emotional assault he waged on his own mind, feeling the punishment justified for his failure to protect the one he loved. It was all my fault... my fault she died! If only I had been stronger... if only I had stopped her that day! She would still be alive! Kenshin lowered his head, clutching the fabric of his hakama pants. "Why didn't you tell me, Tomoe?" He whispered in the empty room. "Why didn't you stay with me that day? I would have gone to them and died in your place."

A swirl of wind tore through the slotted windows of the farmhouse, the fluttering sound of paper being tugged drew his attention and the redhead lifted his gaze, eyes falling on Tomoe's now opened diary. Are you trying to tell me something, love? He asked silently, feeling compelled to rise and he stood up, walking over to the low table. Reaching down, Kenshin carefully scooped up the unassuming brown book, heading back to the small fire roaring in the pit and sat down. The hitokiri started from the beginning, reading the history of his beloved's life before she came to him... and up until her death. He drew in a breath at the last page, tears forming in his eyes as he read Tomoe's final entry:

Last night, Kenshin and I made love for the first time. It was more pleasurable than I expected though I still feel rather shy about it, even now. The flames of hatred that once burned in my heart towards Himura have been extinguished and my cry for vengeance has been silenced by the love I hold for my husband. I love Kenshin. I love his sweet nature... his smile... his strength... and his determination. He wants to fight for a new age... an age where he can protect the happiness of the people around him... without killing... I find myself drawn even more to him for this. That is why I must stop this mission. No matter what it takes, I will protect Kenshin with my life so that he can save those who need saving... and protect those who need protecting. I only hope that I have the strength to endure what must be done.

Tears trailed down his cheeks, dotting the last page of the diary and he frowned, reaching up to wipe away the tears, careful to dry the now damp paper so the ink would not smear before he closed the book. I understand, Tomoe... I understand now... I will not let your sacrifice be in vain. I will keep my promise to you. When this war is over... I will atone for my sins against you and everyone I ever hurt... and protect others... without killing... Even though, I killed your happiness once... my own happiness has died with you... But I will go on... For you, Tomoe... He vowed, suddenly feeling very fatigued and he slowly shifted to lay on his side, falling asleep next to the fire, clutching the diary tightly to his chest as he fell asleep and felt no more.

January 15, 1865 The farmhouse

Katsura found Kenshin still asleep as he entered the farmhouse and at first the leader of the Choushou thought his best swordsman had died and in a panic he rushed over to the boy. "Himura!"

The hitokiri heard a familiar voice calling out to him and his eyelids fluttered open, looking over his shoulder as he found Katsura standing over him with a concern look in his eyes. "Katsura-san?"

The older man let out a sigh of relief. Thank Kami, the boy is still alive! "Hai... I'm sorry it's taken me so long to visit you but after I was informed of what happened, I had to come and make sure you were okay."

The boy sat up, still holding the diary in his hands, his features pained as he whispered. "Tomoe's dead, Katsura-san... I killed her with my own two hands..."

The leader of the Choushou faction had not heard the particulars of what had occurred. But her death has devastated him... more than I had realized. "It wasn't on purpose, Kenshin... you both had bad luck... you killed her betrothed... and she wanted to kill you … but fell in love with you... and you with her... She sacrificed her life to save yours... that you wielded the blade that cut her down was merely more bad luck..."

Kenshin lowered his gaze, trying to hide the tears threatening to spill, croaking out. "But still... I killed her... and I must atone for that..."

This wound... this wound of his... will never heal fully... not until... love finds him again... "I have sent an assassin to deal with the traitor, I'izuka..."

The hitokiri kept his head bowed down, not surprised by the news. Tomoe never liked that man... she said as much to me... and in her diary as well. "So another assassin?"

"Hai... a man by the name of Makoto Shishio... he's dangerous and I don't fully trust him, but his skills are equal to yours. He will be the one carrying out assassinations for the Ishin Shishi from now on."

"So I am being retired then?" Kenshin asked in a whisper, partly relieved.. and partly scared at what such a life would do to him.

"Unfortunately, no... I need you on the battle field... The high ranking Ishin Shishi are being targeted and cut down by the Wolves of Mibu," He replied, loathe to ask the boy to continue to kill after what he'd went through. But I have no choice, he is the best fighter I have to keep everyone safe. "As much as it pains me to ask this of you, I need you on the protect the Ishin Shishi... as a mobile attacker to keep the Shinsengumi at bay. So will you? Will you continue to wield your blade in the name of peace?"

Kenshin thought for a moment. I hate killing... I hate what I've done... I hate the lives I've taken... but if I stop now... it will all be in vain. "Hai, I will do what you ask of me, Katsura-san," He answered softly as he rose to his feet. "Living with Tomoe has taught me the value of small things... of a happiness that comes from spending time with the ones you love. To protect that happiness... I will continue to fight and kill... until such time as peace is restored... and all the happiness of others can bloom freely... when that day comes... I will sheathe my sword... and never kill again," He shuffled over to the low table, gently placing the diary upon the wooden surface, studying the small urn that contained his wife's ashes, with heart broken eyes. "Never again..."

Another chapter in the books. Remembrance, for the most part, is complete... next time we will jump to the present and the reaction of Kenshin's tale from the Kenshingumi... and Enishi's own... whereabouts during the time frame before the end of the war... perhaps something to do with his father... and the after effects of losing his daughter and his son... before returning to the present for the villains... and the beginnings of other players involved namely... a wolf of Mibu, a brooding ninja, and a feisty female shinobi eager to see her friends once again... Please do review if you enjoyed it... it really helps to hear from those who read and enjoy this story.