Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction ❯ Love and Vengeance ❯ Unrest ( Chapter 16 )

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

Another update for those who read this story!

Chapter 16- Unrest

October 1878 Kamiya Dojo

Kenshin's features twisted into an anguished look as he bowed his head low, a heavy silence lingering in the air, pierced only by the murmuring of the heart broken rurouni. “That night, I returned to Kyoto with Katsura, leaving all but Tomoe's ashes and diary behind. My plan was to bury her when the war was over and I managed to get contact information for Tomoe's family in Edo. I wrote a letter to her father, explaining her death and my intentions but I never got confirmation whether he received it or not. I became a mobile striker for the Ishin Shishi in Kyoto until I was sent to the front line in the battle of Tobu-Fushimi. When we finally won, I was relieved,” He paused, voice growing softer still. “At last I could sheathe my blade and keep my promise to Tomoe and atone for my sins as a hitokiri.”

“To never kill again,” Kaoru whispered, gently squeezing her betrothed's hand. “You've kept your promise, Kenshin. I know Tomoe would be proud of the man you are today.”

The redhead smiled softly at her reassuring touch and words, shifting to caress the top of her hand with his thumb. He knew she was just as shocked as the others over the truth of his past. But she cares about me. Cares about me enough to not judge me... to want to soothe my pain. Beautiful Kaoru-dono, this is why I love you as fiercely as I do. Part of him longed to be held by her... and to hold her, his heart in desperate need of comfort. But I cannot do that yet... not until the feud with Enishi is settled. “Hai, Kaoru-dono, I have kept my promise to Tomoe. I spent a decade atoning for my deeds, always wandering, always alone. I was miserable but I cared nothing about myself. Suffering alone was no less than I deserved for my crimes as an assassin,” He lifted his head, shifting his gaze to study the girl he loved with all his heart. “So I remained alone... until I came to Tokyo and met a strong and wonderful kendo instructor who showed me what it was to feel love again. To belong to something more than myself,” He continued to stroke her hand, features softening, the light of love in his gaze as he whispered tenderly. “I found a home... a home with you, Kaoru-dono. I will never wander again.”

Kaoru blushed darkly at his touch and the tenderness in his voice. She could see the love he held for her in his eyes and her stomach fluttered. “Kenshin...” She whispered shyly, though a smile lit up her face. “You will always have a home here.”

Kenshin returned her smile, forgetting himself in that moment as he leaned forward, resting his forehead against hers. “Kaoru-dono...”

The girl was surprised at the open display of emotion in front of everyone but her heart cared not, relishing the simple contact and the warm closeness, her own voice soft and loving. “Kenshin...”

Yahiko studied his sensei and the rurouni, not bothered by the display of affection, his young mind preoccupied with a troubling thought. Something was bothering him. Something important and the student of the Kasshin style voice his puzzlement. “What happened to Enishi, Kenshin?”

The samurai and the dojo instructor both turned their attention to Yahiko, the love spell broken, both remaining quiet as the boy continued,

“I mean he had to have witnessed Tomoe's death. He had to have been up to something all this time. Where did he go?”

Kenshin pondered on the boy's questions before answering. “Enishi was there when Tomoe was struck down, though I did not know it at the time. I was too consumed with grief to search for him. I thought perhaps he had taken Tomoe's advice and returned to Edo,” He paused, his voice less sure and softer. “Where he went and what he did before fleeing to Shanghai, I know not. What I do know is that in 10 days, Enishi plans to attack the dojo and exact revenge for the death of Tomoe.”

Sano perked up at the mention of fighting, clutching his left fist as he lifted it and punched the palm of his right hand. “We can't let Enishi have his way, Kenshin. We need to beat him here and now.”

“Hai,” Kenshin confirmed. “I will not let Enishi hurt anyone in this dojo.”

“You can't do that alone, Kenshin,” Kaoru chided softly. “Let us help you.”

“Yeah, I can help too!” Yahiko chimed in. “I've learned a lot from Kaoru and from you, Kenshin. I want to offer my strength to protect everyone here.”

“I am not a fighter, but I will help in any way I can,” Megumi offered, studying Kaoru and Kenshin with determined eyes. “You are my friends and I won't let anyone get away with hurting the people I care about.”

Kenshin smiled, his heart warming at their offers of help and his protective nature grew even more steadfast and powerful. They were like his family now. And I will not let anyone hurt my family. Though he felt great guilt over his past and the coming battle, Kenshin knew he could not defeat everyone on his own. “I am happy to have your support and accept your offer of help,” Fatigue bore down on him and the rurouni knew it was time to rest. Reluctantly, Kenshin withdrew his hand from Kaoru's and rose to his feet. “But for now, we should head to bed. This one is rather tired and in need of sleep.”

Kaoru missed the warmth of Kenshin's hand in hers but understood that he was worn down from fighting and from revealing his past to everyone and she rose as well. “Hai, I think that's a good idea, Kenshin.”

The five of them headed off in different directions, going to their rooms to settle down for the night. Kenshin remained in his futon, his body screaming for rest though his mind was still troubled with the days events, knowing Enishi would follow through with his threat. Enishi, I know you are hurting. I know you want vengeance for the death of Tomoe. But Enishi, I cannot let you have your way. I will stop you and end the madness that has seized your heart and mind.He closed his eyes, repeating his vow before sleep came to claim him. No matter what it takes, I will stop you... Enishi.

Yokohama

Enishi's body shivered in his chair, his mind still consumed with the nightmare of his past. Images flashed, the death of his sister and the blood... Gods.. the fountain of blood... how long had he been there in that wood, staring at the pool of red visible underneath the falling snow? Hours? Days? Time lost all meaning to him, the pain of his sister's death numbing him to the wind and the cold. Nee-san... Nee-san... he killed you... Battosai cut you down and took you away... took you away from me... The white haired man gripped the fabric of his pants, clutching his jaw as pain shifted, blooming to hatred as he remembered the years after his sister's death and his own attempts at revenge during the time of the Bakumatsu.

First year of Keio September, 1865 Kyoto

Enishi crept along the back alleys of Kyoto, his eyes darting about and his senses alert for any sign of activity. The sky was starless and the streets devoid of life, eerie in their silence. The inky blackness mattered little to the boy. After all, the dark was when a hunter hunted best. And his prey was elusive and very dangerous. Still, Enishi was undaunted as he moved forward only to stop dead in his tracks when a shout suddenly pierced the night air.

“Get them! Don't let them escape!”

He closed his eyes, trying to gauge the direction of the voice, another series of shouts meeting his ears and his eyelids snapped open. Enishi took off down the alleyway, barreling around the corner into a widened street, ducking into the opposite alleyway as he spied flashes of movement in front of him.

Two men raced past, their footsteps fading and the boy frowned as he heard more footsteps approaching his position. Enishi peered around the corner, spying a group of men in light blue haoris and his eyes widened. Shinsengumi... If they're chasing those men, then that means they're...

“Stop, Ishin Shishi scum!” The two men shouted, blades drawn out, their features full of a determined fierceness that morphed into a pensive look as they suddenly ceased to run.

Enishi followed their troubled gaze, eyes widening at the sight of his brother-in-law as he emerged from the shadows, blocking the way for his compatriots. At last! You reveal yourself, Battosai! Twisted delight filled him as he tightened his grip on the katana he'd pilfered from one of the dead Yaminobu. I can avenge Tomoe now!

“Withdraw now and you won't come to any harm.” Himura stated in an even tone, his left hand resting on the saya as he eyed to two men impassively. “But if you refuse...” The red head flicked his thumb against the hand guard, a metallic clinking sound erupting as the hilt of the blade was forced up slightly, his promise of death now audible and the two men backed away slightly, hesitating in their attack.

The boy's features shifted into a look of puzzlement at the hitokiri's words. No harm? The Battosai was offering mercy to his enemies? Something he denied his own wife? Confusion turned to rage and Enishi grit his teeth to silence the anger festering in his heart. You slaughtered my sister like cattle yet have the audacity to offer pity to men you do not even know? I will kill you for that alone! Caution gave way to his darker emotions and the boy pushed off the wall, making to charge at Himura only to stop at the sudden sound of a man's soft spoken voice.

“What's this? Seems we have someone beyond an ordinary swordsman here.”

Enishi shifted his head the same time as the hitokiri, eyes falling on the lean form of a rather tall man with eyes as dark as the elongated bangs that hung past the sides of the white headband he wore. There was a primal energy that seemed to resonate around this Shinsengumi interloper and Enishi shrunk back into the shadows, watching as the tall male approached.

“Step aside, gentlemen. This one is mine to fight.”

“Hai, captain!” The two men replied in unison and parted to allow their leader to pass them.

Captain? Enishi repeated silently. If this man was indeed a captain... Then he might be able to defeat Himura! The boy remained in shadow, eyes glued on the two combatants as the taller samurai came to a stop a short distance from the hitokiri.

“Hmm... red hair... crossed shaped scar.. you are indeed the assassin Battosai...”

The smaller samurai stood his ground, features darkening as his voice grew lower... and more dangerous. “And you must be Hajime Saito... Captain of the third squad of the Shinsengumi...”

Saito quirked an eyebrow. “So you've heard of me as well, eh? Excellent...” He drew out his blade, pointing it at the smaller swordsman. “Shall we begin?”

Himura grabbed the tsuka of his katana and pulled up in a quick movement, the blade now free of the saya and he lifted his hand, holding the blade up and to the side.

Silence gripped the two men, the tension building in the air, coming alive, reaching a crescendo as the two men suddenly charged at each other, blades poised to strike.

Enishi watched as the two swords clashed, sparks flying from the impact of metal on metal as Kenshin blocked Saito's intial attack though the recoil send the hitokiri back.

Saito pressed his size and strength advantage, drawing his blade back, blitzing the hitokiri in a series of powerful slashes in all directions.

Himura remained on the defensive, parrying as he was continuously pushed backwards only to shift to the side in a lightning quick movement, dodging a downward slash aimed for his head. The Battosai brought his blade straight up and parallel to the attack, blocking it and forcing Saito's Katana upwards. Flicking his wrist, the smaller samurai slashed inward, the tip cutting through his opponent's haori.

Saito jumped back before the blade could bite into the skin of his chest, looking down at the ruined fabric then back up to the hitokiri. A wolfish grin tugged at his lips, the delight of meeting a worthy opponent nearly palpable and he shifted the blade into his left hand, flipping the ha side up as he crouched slightly, the tip of the sword resting between the thumb and index finger of his right hand.

Himura sheathed his weapon, shifting into a crouching stance, left hand on the saya and his right one outstretched before him.

Nothing happened for several seconds.

Without warning, the two men raced forward, the Battosai executing a lightning fast draw of his sword, sidestepping at the last instant before Saito's attack could reach him. Now behind the taller man, Himura pivoted around, adding momentum to his swing as he brought the katana up, aiming for Saito's neck, snapping his head up as his blade was struck and parried by his enemy's own sword.

Saito whirled around to face the redhead, the two men circling like predators, searching for a weakness, making ready to fight once more only to stop at the sounds of many racing footsteps.

Outnumbered, Himura jumped up and onto the low rooftop, scampering across the clay tiles before the rest of the Shinsengumi could engage him.

Saito lowered his sword, sighing at the unwanted reinforcements.

“Captain, are you alright?”

“I'm fine,” He replied gruffly, sheathing his sword before pulling out a cigarette and slipping it between his lips. Drawing out a box of matches, the captain slid the stick on the side, fire flaring in the darkness, illuminating his irritated features. Lifting the match he brought it up to the tip of the cigarettle. Now lit, Saito shook the stick out, tossing it aside and took a long drag, a cloud of smoke escaping from his mouth a few seconds later. “But Battosai has escaped.”

“Run away like a coward, did he? Well make sure to get him the next time!”

Saito looked up at the now abandoned rooftop. “Yes... we will.” He murmured, his men talking among themselves before they slowly withdrew from the scene.

Enishi remained still, waiting for the captain to leave, still upset at his inability to bring justice to the Battosai. And if the fight he'd just witnessed was any indication, he was not ready to face his brother-in-law.

“You should really go home, boy...”

Enishi jumped at the sound of Saito's voice addressing him. He's seen me? But how?!

The captain's voice brook no argument as he continued to talk to the younger male. “The streets are no place for a child to be roaming around... especially at night.”

He glared at the samurai but pushed off the wall, sulking off the way he'd came. As he walked, Enishi looked down at the sword in his hand, his shoulders dropping at the lost opportunity to avenge his sister. The first night in months that I've been able to track down the Battosai and I couldn't even get close enough to attack him. Pathetic!

The boy clenched his jaw, irritated at his failure and the truth of his own weak body. I am not ready yet... I must get stronger to kill Himura. But that would require patience and observation. And I don't have money or time to do, either.

The words of the captain sparked other memories... memories of his life in Edo... and the safety of home. If I return home... I will have food and a roof over my head... I can plan my revenge... and maybe... I could manage to see father... and get his help. The idea of armed muscle appealed to his naive mind... and with father's Bakufu connections, I may be able to gather enough men to take care of Battosai once and for all. Resolved to this new plan, Enishi headed towards the outskirts of Kyoto, making for the Tokaido road that led back to Edo... and all that was left of his family.

Late September 1865 Edo

Enishi weaved through the throng of people walking along the streets of Edo, slowly making his way towards home. His legs ached and his stomach growled, the long journey on foot exacerbating his suffering, wearing down his already fatigued body. Just a bit longer and I can rest.

“Enishi, is that really you?”

The boy stopped and turned, his gaze falling on the approaching form of a young lady, recognizing her as one of the servants of the house. “Takara?”

The girl came to a stop before him, disbelief in her eyes as she studied him, shocked at how white his hair now was. “We... We thought you were dead. When you ran off, your father sent scouts to try and find you and your sister but to no avail...”

“I am alive,” Enishi replied, his youthful appearance growing weary as he lowered his head to hide the pain in his eyes. “But Tomoe... is gone...”

Takara's features grew sad, her voice soft and sympathetic. “I know... your father received a letter from Kyoto some months ago, informing him of her passing.”

Enishi lifted his head in surprise. “Was it from the Mimawarigumi?”

“No... the letter came from a man by the name of Kenshin Himura,” Her brow furrowed as she tried to recall what else she could remember of the letter. “I could be mistaken though... The brush strokes on the front of the letter were rather sloppy and hard to read. I think there was mention of him being her husband though I could be wrong on that as well...”

Enishi's muscles twitched in his face at the mention of Battosai's true name, a dark look marring his features and his voice took a hard edge as he spat out, “Husband? A husband doesn't cut his wife down without mercy or remorse. A husband who commits murder deserves death!”

The servant girl shivered at the boy's change in demeanor and instinctively backed away. Something had fractured in Enishi... awakening something dark and dangerous. What has happened to you, Enishi? She wondered. “I... I didn't know that...” She stammered. “I didn't read the letter... only who had sent it...”

The boy glared up at the girl, ignoring her discomfort. “Where is my father?”

She flinched at his demanding tone. “I... I don't know...”

Her answer puzzled him. “You don't know? How could you not know? Don't you work for him?”

Takara shifted nervously. “I... I used to, but after your father walked away from his position in the government and abandoned the house. I had to find work elsewhere...”

The color drained from Enishi's face. “He left his job?”

“Hai... after reading that letter, your father just abandoned everything and disappeared. No one has seen him in months.”

No... it's not true... I don't believe it! Enishi took off, ignoring the girl's cries to come back, tearing around the corner and down the dirt road that led to his home. The boy reached the gate several moments later and stopped, trying to calm the pounding in his chest as he gulped in air to feed his starving lungs. Reaching out, Enishi tried to push open the gate, frowning when it wouldn't budge. What the hell is this?! He pushed harder, growling at the resistance and he lashed out, ignoring the burning pain as he slammed into the wood again and again, stumbling and crashing onto the ground when the gate gave way, granting him access to the pathway that led to the house.

Enishi pushed up off the ground, rising quickly to his feet and he raced up to the engawa, forgetting his manners as he kept his zori on and entered the main hall. He dashed from room to room, searching for some sign of life but the estate was empty and the floors were dusty and unkempt. Enishi headed out onto the back deck, stopping as his eyes fell on the garden. The once thriving land was now neglected and overrun with weeds. His sister had worked so hard to bring life to this particular patch of soil and now it was dead and gone... just as his sister was dead and gone.

“Nee-san...” He whispered, collapsing to his knees, eyes welling with tears of frustration and grief. His home was abandoned, his father had run off and his sister... his sister, whom he loved more than anything in this world, was dead. He was truly alone now. His mind and heart fractured further, despair giving way to rage and his hatred grew into an outward expression of anger as his thoughts focused on the cause of his misery. “This is all your fault, Battosai,” Enishi snarled as he lifted his gaze to glare up at the sky. “Do you hear me, Battosai?! I will make you pay for destroying my family!” He shouted, bunching his hands into fists, his nails digging into the soft flesh of his palms, drawing blood as he vowed in the growing darkness, “One way or another, I will kill you for this..Battosai... Even if it takes me years... I will kill you...”

January 28, 1868-Battle of Toba-Fushimi

Gunfire erupted through the forest of Toba-Fushimi, a cacophony of screams echoing in the air like a macabre symphony. The boom of cannon fire was deafening in its roar and Enishi ducked as something whizzed past his head. An explosion ripped apart the ground to his left, snow and soil shooting off in all directions, splattering against the nearby trees which shook from the intensity of the blast. He rose slowly and tried to gain his bearings. The prospect of challenging Himura had drawn Enishi to the particular battle and he pressed onward, weaving though the dead bodies at his feet. The clash of steel and the cries of the dead and dying grew louder the further into the wood he went and he increased his pace knowing Himura was close.... so close Enishi could feel it.

The boy emerged from the tree line, a cross section of dirt paths visible beyond the hillside and he suddenly froze, his gaze fixed on the scene some distance below. There, surrounded by shogunate forces, stood Himura, his bloodied blade pointed downward. Enishi watched as the hitokiri turned and brought his sword up, cutting down his enemies in a whirlwind of devastating fury when they attempted to close in. Blood exploded from each lethal cut of Battosai's katana, the redhead too fast and too agile for his enemies to even strike. Within moments, each soldier lay either dead or dying leaving Himura standing alone.

Enishi studied the fight with a critical eye, memorizing each movement. Three years he'd waited for this moment; three years of studying the Battosai's tactics, coming up with a strategy to counter the quickness of Himura's blade. All so he could get close enough to kill him. Gripping the hilt of his katana tightly, Enishi began his descent down the hill only to stop when a cry of victory rose up from the next hill over. The boy lifted his head, spying a red banner being lifted, the imperial crest visible and his heart fell. The Ishin Shishi... they actually won? He lowered his blade, glaring at Himura as the older male climbed up the hill, surrounded by his comrades. It was over now... With so many other soldiers nearby, there was no hope for Enishi to even get close enough to land a single shot. If I attack him now, I will fail. He clenched his jaw, staring hatefully over at the Battosai. This isn't over. I will find a way to kill you someday... even if it takes me a lifetime, I will find a way to track you down and pay you back in kind for all the pain you've given me. Enishi whirled around, sick at heart and in mind as the shouts of victory continued to ring in the cold air. He walked away, turning his back on the hitokiri and the Japan that held no love for his sister and no place for him, escaping to the Chinese Mainland and a world far removed from the one he was born and once lived in.

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Yokohama

Enishi grit his teeth as he returned to the present, angered at the trials and tribulations he had to overcome to reach the point he could at last face Battosai. “I lived through 11 years of hell... 11 years to grow stronger so I could track you down and find you, Battosai,” He glared out the window, his brown orbs now as dark as the starlit sky. “And in 10 days, everything you love and care about will be gone... I will exact my Jinchuu and you won't be able to do a damn thing to stop me...”

Kamiya Dojo

Kaoru lay awake in her room, too absorbed with thoughts of the earlier day's events to rest. The attack on everyone today had been shocking and the truth of Kenshin's past had added to the sadness in her heart. She felt bad for Tomoe, who had sacrificed herself to save Kenshin, only to be cut down by her husband's blade. And her heart hurt for Kenshin, who had to live with the fact that it was he who had ended his wife's life. That he was still sane after all that had happened was a testament to his strength and force of will. But his heart had shattered... too broken to let anyone back in... until now. I will not let his heart be broken again. I will help heal Kenshin and show him the love that he deserves and give him the peace he has earned.

But could she really do that with the threat of death hovering over them? Enishi wanted to exact revenge by destroying everything Kenshin loved and cared about. The white haired man believed the rurouni had murdered his sister in cold blood. But it was an accident. Kenshin was blinded and unable to see Tomoe in time to stop his blade. Her brow furrowed in realization. Enishi wouldn't know about that, though... He would only know what his eyes saw; his sister killed by the husband that was supposed to protect her. It had to of fractured his young mind and broken his heart. But what you're doing now, Enishi, isn't right. This isn't right. We can't let you get away with your plan for Jinchuu. I will not let you hurt Kenshin... and I won't let you hurt my friends.

She sighed, rolling onto her side. I can't keep thinking about this stuff or I'll be up all night. She closed her eyes, trying to will herself to sleep but to no avail and she growled in frustration, tossing the covers off before rising to her feet. Well, if I can't sleep, I might as well make some tea. Quietly, Kaoru slipped out of her room, tiptoeing down the engawa as she headed towards the kitchen. She stepped into the upper level, gasping in surprise at the sudden movement before her, finding an equally surprised Megumi staring up at her.

The lady doctor recovered quickly, looking back down at the kettle as she spoke. “Couldn't sleep either, eh?”

Kaoru sighed but straightened her back, stepping down into the kitchen to join the taller female. “Something like that...”

Megumi lifted her head at the girl's sigh, seeing the worry in her friend's eyes, knowing the cause revolved around the shocking events earlier in the day but kept her voice clinical as she asked, “Are you concerned about Ken-san, Kaoru? Is that why you can't sleep?”

“It's not like that,” Kaoru countered quickly before backtracking slightly. “Okay, so it's not only about Kenshin... I am worried about all of us and about what's going to happen in 10 days time.”

“I would think that was fairly obvious.”

Kaoru made a face. “You know what I mean. I don't want anyone hurt over this but with Kenshin and Sano injured, they won't be able to fight Enishi at full strength.”

Megumi understood Kaoru's fear, carrying the same trepidation within her own heart and mind. She looked down at the kettle, knowing it was ready and lifted it, pouring the hot water into the pot with practiced grace then transferred it to the wooden tray to her right, two small green tea cups following as she spoke. “Why don't we sit down and enjoy a cup of tea, hmm? Perhaps talk in greater detail about what is troubling you?”

Kaoru followed Megumi into the upper room, pulling out two zabuton and the two ladies settled down.

“It was rather.... shocking tonight, hearing about Ken-san's past,” The lady doctor began, pouring the tea before handing the younger woman a cup. “I confess I was surprised to find out he was once married. And at such a young age, too.”

The dojo instrustor took the cup, voice soft as she spoke. “It was rather shocking... but also very tragic and heartbreaking,” She admitted. “So much pain and suffering for Kenshin and for Tomoe. To lose your wife by killing her? For her to lose her betrothed to the man she would fall in love with and die for? I hurt for the both of them.”

Megumi quirked an eyebrow. “You're taking all this rather well, Kaoru.”

The girl shrugged. “Why shouldn't I? What happened to Kenshin in the past was awful but doesn't lessen my love for him. And Tomoe was the catalyst for Kenshin's change. He wouldn't be the Kenshin we know if Tomoe hadn't healed the wounds in his heart and mind. When she died, he must have died inside as well. He lost a chance at a normal life with Tomoe... and she lost her life to save his. It's rather... depressing when you think about it.”

“Hmm, yes... but Tomoe willingly gave up her life to save Ken-san. She loved him too much to let him die. That is some strong devotion... and strength of will, to overcome a fear of death to protect the onl you love.”

Kaoru lowered her gaze. “Hai... She saved him... and I am so happy she did... but her death scarred his heart. Can you imagine the burden of guilt he must have felt, knowing it was his own hands that killed his wife? Living day to day with the memory of killing her. It's no wonder Kenshin sealed his heart. He must have been scared to death of having it broken again.

“Yet he fell in love with you, Kaoru,” Megumi replied, taking a sip of tea. “Despite his past... he loves and wants to be with you. So much so that he was terrified of losing you today.”

A line of wrinkles marred Kaoru's forehead. “Terrified?”

“Hai. When he brought you to me, Ken-san was scared out of his mind over you. He refused to leave you side and nearly refused any treatment for his injuries. I was contemplating having to sedate him to get him to comply.”

The girl blushed as the memories of earlier came back to her. “But he should have known I'd be alright. I had the best doctor in Japan to look after me. And I'm okay now, really I am.”

“Are you, Kaoru?” Megumi said, motioning to the dojo instructor's shoulder. “That injury you sustained could have killed you if your attacker had used a lethal poison. I don't think you'll get that reprieve when Enishi attacks the dojo.”

Kaoru reached up, gingerly touching her right shoulder, feeling the bandage underneath, the wound stiff and very tender. “I know that, but I can't let Enishi do what he wants to my friends and I won't let him hurt Kenshin.”

Megumi studied the girl in disapproval. “And how do you plan on doing that, Kaoru? Even if you were at full strength, you would be no match for Enishi or any of his men.”

“I don't care. I won't leave Kenshin to fight alone. I will stay at his side and protect him... and everyone else.”

A thoughtful look crossed the doctor's features. “So you would die for Kenshin then?”

“Die for him?” Kaoru murmured, frowning at the question and her own thoughts. Tomoe had sacrificed her life to save Kenshin. There was no hesitation and no fear. She was willing to die because she loved the samurai. How can I be any less ready to die for his sake? “I am willing to risk my life to protect Kenshin.” She admitted, studying Megumi with determined eyes. “But if I died, Kenshin's heart would shatter. So I will fight at his side... For Kenshin I will fight... and I will live...”

Megumi smiled inwardly, impressed with the girl's answer. You're more mature than I give you credit for at times, Kaoru.

“And what about you?”

The lady doctor blinked at her question. “What about me?”

“If someone tried to kill Sano, would you jump in to save him?”

The older woman made a face, hiding her own unease at having the question turned back on her. “Sano is too stupid and too stubborn to die. He'd probably yell at me to get the hell out of his way so he could continue his fight to the death.”

“But if you could, would you?”

Images from earlier in the day formed in the doctor's mind, recalling the fight between Sano and Banjin and her own attempt at saving the street fighter. “I suppose...” She said with a sigh. “I guess we'll find out how we'll both react soon enough.”

Kaoru looked out at the darkened Engawa. “I'm afraid of what's going to happen,” She whispered. “I'm afraid for everyone's safety here. And I'm afraid for Kenshin. Enishi said he wanted to make Kenshin suffer a living hell... His eyes were... crazed... when he said it. Kenshin was really rattled by everything.”

“And given the history between them we know why,” Megumi replied. “Whatever Enishi is planning, Kenshin will figure out a way to stop it.”

But what if he's unable to figure it out? Kaoru countered silently, her thoughts revolving around Kenshin and she hoped that if he were asleep, that his dreams were untroubled. Goodness knows he deserves some peace after all that happened today.

Kenshin was indeed asleep, drawing into the deeper realms of unconsciousness and the redhead found himself walking hand in hand with Kaoru down a stone lined path that cut through a row of cherry blossom trees. A gentle breeze swept through, tugging at the branches above their heads, the flowers giving way to the wind's call and petals began to fall like rain, gliding down and around the two lovers. The rurouni lifted his head, smiling at the fragrant shower, turning his gaze to Kaoru when she tugged at his hand to stop him and he frowned, shifting to face her, voice full of concern. “Is something wrong, Kaoru?”

Puzzlement gave way to surprise when Kaoru reached up to gently brush his bangs and the rurouni blinked as several petals dropped out of his hair. He saw her smile, finding it as beautiful as the amusement in her eyes and he tilted his head to the side, more petals escaping the confines of his long red hair. “Do I look silly with petals in my hair, Kaoru?”

“A little...” She replied with a soft laugh.

Her laughter always lightened his heart and he reached out to pluck a few petals clinging to the girl's hair.

“Do you think I look silly, Kenshin?”

He shook his head slowly, whispering in a tender voice to match the love in his eyes for her. “Never, Kaoru. You are always beautiful to me.”

“Kenshin...”

There was something in her tone, despite her blush, that made him want to kiss her and he hesitated for only a second before his hand shifted to cup her cheek, stroking the the heated skin with his thumb and he looked into her eyes, finding only love reflected in her dark brown pools. “Kaoru...” He whispered reverently as he slowly leaned in, within a hair's breadth of kissing her only to stop when the light died around them.

He felt her fear and heard it in her voice as she clung to him. “Kenshin, what's happening?”

Kenshin looked around in confusion and trepidation. “I do not know, but we should go home, Kao....” His voice died as her felt her grip loosen and he shifted his gaze back to where she was, panic welling in his heart to find her gone. “Kaoru?” He circled around, eyes darting about for some sign of his beloved. “Kaoru? Kaoru where are you?!” The rurouni shouted as he tore off, racing blindly through the inky blackness in search for her only to stumble as his zori struck something solid. He fell forward, crashing headlong into the ground, wincing as his body slammed into what felt like rocks. His vision cleared, the darkness lifting and he frown morphed instantly to shock and horror. What the hell is this?!

There, spread out as far as the eye could see were piles upon piles of bones. Human bones... the empty sockets of the skulls staring at him accusingly and he scrambled up and away in disgust and fear. Kaoru... where was Kaoru? I have to find her... and take her away from here! He lifted his head, spying the girl some distance ahead and hope leaped into his chest. “Kaoru!” The samurai climbed over the mountain of death that stood before him, reaching out for her only to gasp as his hand met empty air, a scream of terror rising in his throat as the skeletons came to life and clawed at Kaoru, dragging her down, the girl sinking into bones as if to consume her.

Kenshin!” She cried out as she struggled against the skeletal grip, her right arm breaking free as she reached for him, the fear in her eyes driving him to action and he twisted and turned, dodging the rising skeletons and he drew out his sakabato, fragments of bones shattering as he slashed violently outward. He lunged forward, attempting to take her hand in his left, fingertips brushing against hers only to stare in shock as she was yanked away from him into the dark.

“Kaoru!” Kenshin's voice erupted in his room, tossing and turning as he tried to escape the grip of his nightmare.

Soft footfalls came to a stop outside his room, the shoji door slowly opening to reveal the troubled features of Kaoru. The dojo instructor had just finished helping Megumi clean up in the kitchen, fully intending to return to bed. But the sound of her name on Kenshin's lips and the fear she could hear in his voice gave her pause. I know I shouldn't do this... but I have to make sure he is alright. Steeling her resolve, Kaoru reached out, sliding the door slowly open. Just a peek... Just a peek to make sure he's okay and I'll go back to bed. The girl poked her head inside, frowning at the sight of Kenshin tossing and turning in his sleep. Her gaze fell on the pain visible on the rurouni's features and the way he trembled. He must be having a nightmare. She jumped at the sudden sound of the samurai's voice as he whimpered,

“Kaoru.. please... come back... don't leave me... Kaoru...”

The lack of an honorific made her blush, despite what was obviously a frightening dream for Kenshin and she bit her lip, debating whether or not to try and wake him up. I can't stand to see him hurting like this but I shouldn't be in his room. Especially right now. But the sight of him suffering was too much and she drew in a breath, letting it out slowly before stepping inside. She turned sideways, quietly sliding the shoji door shut and crept over to the rurouni's right side. Kaoru crouched down and reached out, gently shaking his shoulder as she whispered, “Kenshin?”

But the redhead continued to shake, whimpering her name and Kaoru shifted her hand to touch his face. “Kenshin, please wake up. You have to wake up, Kenshin!”

Her voice was the light, chasing away the darkness pressing down around him and he answered her call, his nightmare fading, drawn to the realm of waking and the touch of her hand upon his face. Kenshin's eyelids fluttered open, finding the concerned eyes of Kaoru staring down at him and he reached out to touch her face in return, the fear in his eyes fading at the feel of her skin against his hand. “Kaoru-dono... you're here... you're really here...” He dropped his hand and sat up, relief filling him as he pulled her into an embrace too relieved at the sight of her near him to care about propriety. “Thank Kami-sama! I thought I'd lost you!”

Kaoru was shocked at the hug, feeling the warmth of his body against hers, blushing darkly at how the contact was making her own body feel. “Kenshin?” She squeaked out but didn't pull away, waiting for the rurouni to let go.

Kenshin pulled back at her squeak, blinking at how red her face looked, realizing how tightly he held her and heat flared across his own face at the feel of her soft body against his solid one. The contact was very pleasant but he knew it was improper and he reluctantly lowered his arms. “I'm sorry, Kaoru-dono. This one didn't mean to embarrass you.”

Part of her wanted to pout at the loss of contact but her curiosity was stronger at the moment and she cleared her throat to talk. “I'm not embarrassed, Kenshin. I am worried. You were crying out for me in your sleep. You sounded so scared that I couldn't help but come in here to wake you up.” She paused, voice softer now. “You had a nightmare, didn't you?”

Kenshin lowered his head, his face shifting to a mask of pain. “Hai... I dreamt you disappeared in a mountain of bones... I feared... death was coming to take you away from me... and I couldn't find you in the darkness... there was no light... no hope... no Kaoru-dono... and I was terrified... This one is sorry to have awakened you.”

Kaoru frowned at his change of demeanor and her heart hurt for him. “Kenshin...” She whispered, reaching out to rest her hands on his. “You do not have to apologize... I was already awake... I heard you cry out as I was heading back to my room,” She paused, voice less sure now. “I could tell you were frightened... So I came into your room to help you.”

He studied her hands over his, heart reacting to her words and he shifted his hands to hold hers, gently stroking the tops with his thumbs. “You have helped me more than you realize, Kaoru-dono. This one thanks you for your concern and your love.”

Kaoru enjoyed the way he held her hands and the touch, his words making her stomach flutter and her pulse race a bit. “Kenshin... I love you... and of course I want to always help you... I want to fight at your side... and protect you... just like you've protected me... that's what you do when you love someone, right?”

Kenshin smiled at her words and her reaction to him. “Hai... that is what you do when you love someone... and I love you, too, Kaoru... You make this one very happy...” His smile fell, features more serious. “That is why I will make sure to keep you safe from Enishi... I won't let him hurt you... I swear it.”

His vow affected her in ways that weren't proper and she reacted without thought, reaching up to cup his face. “Kenshin, look at me...”

The rurouni lifted his gaze at her request, leaning into her touch without thinking, drawing to the love he could see in her eyes and the soft sound of her voice.

“You mustn't worry so much. I know you love me and I know you don't want to see me hurt but Kenshin, I will not run and hide from what is to come. I will stand and fight with you.”

He frowned. “But Kaoru-dono... I can't let him hurt you... I won't let him touch you...” He countered, reaching up to touch her face. “You are strong of spirit and of will... and I know you will not run from battle... but if something happened to you... if you were to die here... that would mean an end to my own life...” He leaned forward, resting his forehead against hers, no longer caring if it were inappropriate. “I cannot live without you, Kaoru... I love you and I need you at my side... always...”

The devotion in his voice made Kaoru react and she did not shy away when their foreheads touched, her own voice softer and emotional. “Kenshin...”

Something in her tone called to him and he answered, his voice lower in timbre but no less emotional. “Kaoru-dono...” He sensed her head tilt back slightly, her lips oh so inviting and he took a risk, crossing the line as he shifted his mouth closer to hers. “My beautiful Kaoru... I love you so...” He whispered reverently before pulling her into his arms, kissing her with the barest of pressure.

Kaoru's heart hammered in her chest when he dropped the honorific, noting it was the first time he had ever done so in a conscious state. Her eyes widened when she watched him lean in, gasping when he his lips brushed against hers, the contact sending tingles throughout her body. “Ken...shin...”

He enjoyed the way his name escaped from her lips, feeling her tremble a bit in his arms and he smiled tenderly, shifting his head to nuzzle his nose slowly against hers. “Hmm?”

She felt the heat of his breath against her skin, the contact of his nose nuzzling hers comforting and she found herself returning the gesture without thought, her eyes meeting his, both excited and nervous at the what she found simmering in those lovely dark pools. “Did you just...”

“Kiss you?” He finished for her. “Hai... I did...” He murmured, pulling his head back to study her better, nothing her flushed features and he lifted his hand to cup her chin, trailing his thumb over her lips. “You were just too lovely to resist, koishii...”

There was something in the lowered timbre of his voice that made Kaoru shiver in delight and she blushed even more darkly at the term of endearment, lowering her gaze shyly. “Kenshin... when you talk like that you make me want to...”

“Kiss me back?”

She pouted at how well he could read her, snapping her head back up to toss an annoyed look at him. “No...”

Kenshin quirked an eyebrow, voice full of mirth as he shot back teasingly, “No? Your pulse says otherwise, love...”

He's got me there.”Okay... so I do....” She relented with a mumble, thoughts coming unbidden to her and she whispered in a voice so soft the rurouni had to strain to her her. “But... we shouldn't... I mean... what if it leads to... other things...”

His features grew softer, knowing how nervous she was. “Kaoru-dono... I understand your fear... but it was just a simple kiss... nothing that would lead to those other things...” He paused, lowering his hand back to his side as he whispered, “But if you wish for me to not kiss you, then I won't...”

Kaoru's brow furrowed at his words. “Kenshin... of course I want you to kiss me...” She gasped and covered her mouth at her confession, lowering her hand at his chuckle. “What's so funny, buster?”

Kenshin smiled softly, eyes twinkling as he studied her. “Nothing, koishii.. I simply find you... cute... when you are flustered...”

“I'm not flustered... I'm... nervous...” She protested.

“Are they not one and the same?” He countered with a teasing smile.

She glared at him then sighed. “Well, you're obviously well enough to go back to sleep now if you're teasing me like this.”

His smile fell, brow furrowed as he whispered, “I don't want to go back to sleep, Kaoru.”

Her irritation faded, concern over him taking its place. “But, Kenshin, how can you heal properly if you don't get some rest?”

“This one will be fine, Kaoru... I do not need to sleep...”

“Yes, you do,” She insisted, feeling him start to pull away from her, his demeanor changing, putting on his rurouni mask to hide his pain and fear from her and she reached out to take his hand in hers. “Please... for me?”

He looked down when she took his hand, slowly lifting his gaze to meet hers, his heart softening at the concern and the love he could see in her eyes. “I will rest... on one condition...”

“What is it?” She asked, finding his sudden nervousness intriguing, eyes widening as he said in a soft tone,

“Stay with me.”