Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction ❯ Love and Vengeance ❯ The Attack ( Chapter 20 )

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

Note: There are going to be several changes in the attack on the Kamiya Dojo and yet I've attempted to have similar events transpire in new ways. You'll see what I mean when you read the chapter.

Word list-

ninjato- sword of the ninja a short straight blade sword with a square handle

Ryuu Sougeki- Dragon chin smash

Chapter 20- The Attack

Evening of Jinchuu- Kamiya Dojo

Kenshin stood in the front courtyard, his left hand resting on the saya of his sakabato as he focused his gaze skyward. Daylight had come and gone, black clouds choking out the remnants of light, the air growing colder as the wind began to pick up, swirling around the rurouni, the icy caress making him shiver. A storm was fast approaching... bringing with it a familiar sense of unease and Kenshin's grip tightened around the saya in reflex, the tension building within his heart and mind. I know Enishi will arrive soon. But from which direction? How would he strike first? Through the front door? Through the back gate? Along the wall? Through it? So many variables and possible points of entry into the Kamiya estate. And there are so few of us here to defend it. But defend it they would. I will not let Enishi do as he pleases. I will stop him. Here and now.

"Kenshin?"

The samurai kept his hold on the saya and turned, his features softening as Kaoru approached with a small tray. "Hai, koishii?"

Kaoru came to a stop to the rurouni's left, smiling at him as she spoke. "I know it's not much for dinner but since it's so late and Enishi has yet to attack, I thought we could use something to eat."

He looked down at the tray, finding several mostly triangular onigiri and he smiled, noting she had gotten better at forming the balls of rice. "I am not hungry, Kaoru... but I would welcome the cup of tea you offer," He replied, reaching out to gently take the green cup from the tray. He took a sip, the warmth of the tea reassuring and he relaxed the grip on the saya. "Thank you, love. The tea is delicious as always."

Kaoru smiled happily at his praise then sighed, looking up at the cloud filled sky. "Enishi still hasn't shown up... and neither has Misao... the letter must not have arrived to her in time."

Kenshin's brow furrowed, seeing the disappointment in his beloved's features and he lowered the cup, moving closer to her. "I know you had hoped to avoid bloodshed, Kaoru, by using Tomoe's diary, but there is little that can be done about that now," He paused, voice growing stronger and more confident. "I do not wish to fight... but I will do so to keep you safe... to keep everyone safe... this is my home... I will not let it be destroyed by Enishi's madness."

"I know that, Kenshin," Kaoru replied, turning to face her betrothed. "I just hoped it wouldn't come to this... that Enishi could read Tomoe's words... and be made to understand."

"Hai... that would have been best... but we cannot dwell on what ifs, Kaoru. Words will not stop him now... so we must stop him by force."

"That's if he even shows up."

Kenshin and Kaoru turned in unison at the sound of Sano's voice, watching him come to a stop before the pair, Megumi to his right. The brawler eyed the remaining rice balls hungrily, making to snatch one, flinching when the doctor slapped his shoulder, his hand going still and he turned to look at her in askance. "What?"

"You know what... you've had enough to eat already." Megumi lectured in a warning tone, glaring at the fighter who grumbled but drew his hand back to his side.

Kenshin watched the exchange between Sano and the lady doctor, unable to stop the amused smile tugging at his lips. Even with the threat of death so close to home, Sano's mind is still on food. His smile fell, his expression more serious as he explained the truth of danger they were all about to face. "Enishi has been plotting revenge for well over a decade, Sano... He will carry through with his threat to bring Jinchuu to the dojo. The question is a matter of how he will attack."

"So how do you think he'll attack, Kenshin?" Yahiko asked, coming to stand to Kaoru's left, lifting his bokken to rest it against his right shoulder.

The samurai pivoted around, surveying the area before him. "It's hard to say, Yahiko. There are many places Enishi could slip into the dojo. He could strike through the front door, enter through the back gate... along the wall... or..."

"Perhaps from above?"

Kenshin's eyes widened at the intrusive voice and he whirled around, snapping his head back, the rest of the group following, a collective gasp escaping their throats at the sight above them.

There, atop the rooftop of the main building, stood Enishi, who stared down at them with a menacing gleam in his bespectacled eyes. "I hope I haven't kept you waiting too long..." He studied the group with a smirk before settling his gaze on the redhead. "I trust you're ready to accept your punishment... Battosai?"

"I've punished myself enough over the years for what happened to your sister..." Kenshin murmured in reply. "But I know you will not listen to reason..." He kept his focus on the white haired man, a look of grim determination taking hold of his features as he flicked the hand guard of his sakabato with his thumb and drew out the blade in a lightning quick motion. "So if you want to settle your grudge against me, come down here and I'll fight you right now."

Enishi's features turned into a mocking contemplative expression. "Hmm... tempting, but I'd rather enjoy the view from up here a while longer... Besides," He paused, his smirk widening into a manic grin. "I don't want to ease your suffering too quickly... and my friends are rather... anxious to join the fray..."

"Friends?" Sano snorted, staring up at Enishi in derision. "What friends? All I see is you."

A sudden explosion ripped through the front door, sending wood, stone, and dirt into the air. Kenshin reacted instantly, reaching out to snatch Kaoru's hand, dragging her down with him before covering her body protectively with his own. Sano reacted similarly, hugging Megumi to him as they tumbled to the ground in an attempt to escape the projectiles that rocketed towards them while Yahiko dove for the ground and covered the back of his head with his hands.

Enishi watched in amusement as the debris settled and smoke poured out of the damaged entryway. "Those friends."

The rurouni recovered first, loosening his hold around Kaoru. "Are you alright, koi?" He whispered, looking down at her in concern.

"Hai..." Kaoru whispered back, letting the rurouni help her up as the pair rose to their feet. Her gaze shifted to the ruined entryway, shock gripping her features when something thin and black suddenly shot out from the smoldering wreckage and snaked around the samurai's ankles. Kenshin was yanked off his feet and away from Kaoru, disappearing into the smoke plume that continued to smolder.

"Kenshin!" The collective cry of the group shouted at once as they darted towards the smoke.

Sano took the lead, racing into the dark haze, Kaoru and Yahiko making to follow only to jump aside as the brawler suddenly went flying past them, landing on his back with a hard thump.

Kaoru snapped her gaze back to the entryway, watching as two figures emerged from the smoke cloud. The one in the duster she didn't recognize but the one standing next to him she knew well enough. "Hyouko..."

The effeminate man smirked at the mention of his name, turning to face her. "We meet again, Kamiya," He greeted in return, scrutinizing her form, finding her without her bokken and his smirk widened. "And unarmed as well... this day gets better and better..." Reaching out with his right hand, Hyouko gripped the hilt of his katana, drawing it out slowly as he held it down and to the side. "Let's test how well that injury of yours has healed, hmm?"

Yahiko frowned as he looked between his master and this interloper. "Is this the guy who hurt you, Kaoru?"

"Hai... and he's going to try and do so again," Kaoru answered, glaring at the man as he stalked towards her. She backed up slowly, putting a protective arm in front of Yahiko who moved with her, her mind frantically trying to formulate a plan. With her bokken on the engawa, she could not defend herself in proper fashion. Which means I have to rely on my hand to hand combat skills. Could she do it? Yes... she could... but for how long? And with my shoulder not completely healed, one wrong move and I will re injure it. She looked over to Sano, frowning as he jumped up and rubbed his chest. A deep bruise was already blooming on his exposed skin, the sign of a very powerful attack and she shifted her focus over to the man in the duster. That must be the one Sano talked about... the one called Banjin. Knowing the street fighter could hold his own, Kaoru returned her attention back on Hyouko, whispering to her student. "Yahiko, when I give you the signal, I want you to run to the engawa and grab my bokken. When you see an opening, toss it to me then stick by Megumi."

"What? But... I want to fight with you!" Yahiko whispered back heatedly.

"And you will, I promise... but Megumi is the only one here that is not trained to fight. And as Sano has a fight of his own, he cannot keep her safe right now. I'm entrusting you with this task. Do not let me down."

"R... right..." Yahiko stammered in response to the commanding tone of her voice. "I'll do it... but don't you dare get hurt, you got that?"

Kaoru gave him a reassuring smile. "I won't..." Which is more than I can say for Sano. She commented silently as she tossed a look over at the ruined gate with worry in her heart. And for Kenshin.

Outside the Kamiya Estate

Kenshin twisted in the grip of the cable wrapped around his ankles, his small form bruised and battered as he was yanked through the smoke of the ruined gate and down the stone steps of the dojo. He grit his teeth, lifting his sakabato up and flipped it to the ha side of the blade, slashing down with precise aim, cutting through the rope cleanly and the rurouni rolled,landing on the street below. Concern and urgency overrode the pain flaring in his back and the samurai jumped to his feet. He raced up the steps, nearly reaching the entrance to the courtyard when his eyes registered a muzzle flash within the smoke. He ducked in reflex, avoiding the lead ball that sailed past his head, hoping the others were faring better than he was.

The front courtyard- Sano vs Banjin

Sano studied Banjin with a cocky expression on his face. The attack in the smoke had surprised him and the throbbing pain in his chest from the blow was tough to ignore but the street fighter was used to such injuries, shrugging them off like it was nothing as he taunted the larger man. "Nice kick there... too bad it didn't hurt..."

Banjin stopped before the slightly taller man, features as severe as his look, unimpressed at Sano's nonchalance and bravado. "You always full of crap like this?"

Sanosuke grinned, dancing around with his fists up, ready to fight. "Not when it comes to your lame ass attacks... you couldn't even knock a child out with those strikes... so come on, eh? Show me what you've really got."

Insulted, Inui sprung forward making to strike for the brawler's face with his right hand but Sano snapped his head back, avoiding the hit, countering with a quick jab to Banjin's jaw, causing the larger man to stumble back and shake his head.

Inui growled at the solid strike and lunged at the lankier fighter, snapping his head to the right as Sano's fist hit nothing but air, bringing his own fist up and under the brawler's jaw, the force of the blow sending Sanosuke off his feet and crashing into the ground below. Banjin raced forward, leaping into the air, making to stomp on Sano's chest but the fighter rolled out of the way just as the booted feet of Inui smashed into the ground.

Sanosuke scrambled to his feet, studying his enemy in shock. "You're crazy, you know that?!"

Banjin snorted then shot back, "No crazier than you are!"

"Yeah, well, I don't go stomping on guys when they're on the ground!" Sano retorted and raised his hands up, making a come on gesture with his right hand before closing it into a fist. "So let's do this the right way!"

Inui studied his enemy for a moment, trying to gauge the seriousness of the brawler's words before raising his own hands, closing them into fists as he began to circle around Sano.

The street fighter mimicked Banjin's movements, waiting for an opening to strike then jabbed out, making to hit his enemy's face but Inui was faster, ducking to avoid the attack before invading the small space between them, lashing out in a series of quick punches to the stomach and ribs. Sano winced, but took the blows, reaching out to grab the man's jacket. "Got you!" He shouted then snapped his head forward, smashing it against Inui's forehead.

Inui stumbled backwards, shaking his head at the double vision. God that bastard's head is like a rock! He growled inwardly, blinking and stumbling back as the brawler's fist slammed into his jaw then his sides, giving him no time to recover. Enough of this! He reached up, snatching Sano's hand in mid air, countering with a lightning quick blow to the brawler's throat, smirking when his opponent gasped and fought for air. Right where I want you! He snarled silently as he charged forward, wrapping his arms around Sano, lifting him up off the ground and slamming him into the hardened wood of the engawa.

Blood exploded from Sano's mouth upon impact, too dazed to defend himself from Banjin's punch, his head snapping to the side from the force of the blow to his jaw, eyes closing as his body grew limp and still.

Banjin leaned back and rose, panting a bit as he stared down at the unconscious form of the brawler, on edge for any sign he would come to and attack. Satisfied that the street fighter was out of commission, Inui straightened his duster and began to walk away only to stop at the sound of his enemy shouting out,

"Where do you think you're going?! Our fight isn't done yet!"

Banjin pivoted around slowly to glare at Sano as the fighter rose to his feet.

Sanosuke wiped the blood away from his mouth, a defiant expression crossing his bruised face. He didn't know what was going on with Kenshin... and Jo-chan was dealing with her own problem. So that means I've gotta do my part to end this stupid plot of revenge! Sano made a motion to come back and fight with his hands before enclosing them, his fists close to his head as he called out, "Come on then... let's go..."

Banjin growled but slowly moved back towards Sano, as they prepared to trade punches and kicks once again, moving farther away from Kaoru and Hyouko who were engaged in a fight of their own.

The front courtyard- Kaoru vs Hyouko

Yahiko kept close to Kaoru, moving as she did, the pair of them edging near the engawa. They were rapidly running out of room to counter any attack the one called Hyouko might launch and though he understood his master's reasoning for keeping him from fighting, the boy didn't like it one bit. The first sign of trouble and I will jump in, whether she wants me to or not. He felt a light tap on his forearm, daring a quick glance at Kaoru before turning and racing to jump onto the engawa, making for his sensei's wooden sword.

Kaoru's gaze did not waver from Hyouko, putting her trust in Yahiko to do as she had told him to do. There was a tenseness in her muscles, knowing the assassin was poised to strike, years of training aiding her defense and she reacted without thought, jumping back as the blade of the assassin suddenly cut through the air, slashing out in a wide arc. He was still as reckless and lazy in his attempt to cut her down as their last encounter and her awareness of his reach guided her tactics as she danced left then right to avoid the ha side of the blade.

The engawa and dojo

Yahiko reached his teacher's bokken, holding it with his left hand as he turned to watch Kaoru dodge the assassin's attacks, worry growing in his heart at her safety. Though he believed in his sensei, the boy knew Kaoru was still not completely healed from her injury. She would need her sword and soon. But I cannot distract her... I have to wait for the right moment to help. He tossed a quick glance over to Megumi, noting the lady doctor's gaze was fixated on Sano's fight with Banjin. She was good at hiding her emotions but in that moment, Yahiko could see the fear reflected in her eyes. You're afraid for him, aren't you, Megumi?

The physician was indeed worried over Sanosuke, her anxiety growing with every punch and kick that the fighter endured and returned. The longer this goes on, the closer to death he comes. Megumi knew that the risk of ruptured organs, broken bones, and concussions grew with each repetitive strike that landed on the body. And the bonehead is bleeding and bruised already. She watched as Sano and Banjin circled one another than rushed forward and clashed near the dojo entrance. The men grappled, each trying to flip the other before they both went tumbling onto the deck, rolling into the training hall and out of sight. Concerned for Sano, Megumi took off after him, leaving the relative safety of Yahiko and his bokken and she rounded the corner and into the dojo.

The boy saw Megumi run into the training hall and at first thought to follow. But I cannot abandon Kaoru. Yahiko looked over to the destroyed front gate, traces of smoke lingering in the air and he frowned. Kenshin had been dragged away by some strange cable before disappearing into the smoke. But in the moments since the explosion, he'd had yet to return. They probably ambushed him outside the compound to force us to fight one on one. Yahiko reasoned, wondering who it was the samurai had to face... and why it was taking so long to return.

Outside the Kamiya estate

Kenshin watched as a figure emerged from the dark plume and the rurouni rose slowly, finding himself staring up at the face of a large man with severe features... features that triggered a barrage of images from long ago and his gaze shifted to the bandaged stump of the brute's right arm where his hand should be. This man... I know this man...

Hyougo saw the flash of recognition in the redhead's eyes, the long barrel of his .44 Colt Walker pointed down at the ground as he stared at the samurai. "It's been a long time, hasn't Battosai?"

"Hai... it has..." Kenshin confirmed, his eyes remaining on Hyougo as he held his sword out and away from his right hip, listening as the brute continued,

"I still remember that day... the day we fought and you gave me this gift..." Hyougo paused, lifting up his right arm to show the bandaged stump. "My hand may be no more, but the pain remains... I still feel it... the cutting... the way the blood pumped from the wound.. the pulsation as the nerves screamed from the severing... you had defeated me in battle and I should have died for my failure to kill you. I begged for you to end my life... but you walked away... you denied me a proper and honorable death..." He glared at the smaller man, voice become more heated. "You destroyed my life as a swordsman... you forced me to live with the humiliation of my defeat... I became useless... wandering in search of work... but then an answer came to me... revenge... I would get my revenge on you for what you did to me..."

"What I did to you was just after the war..." Kenshin countered evenly, his features illuminated by the flash of lightning from above, thunder rumbling seconds later, signaling the impending storm about to be unleashed. "You attacked me without provocation and yes, I did cut off your hand... but I spared your life because I made a vow to someone very important to me... A vow to never kill again... That won't change, no matter what you say or do."

"Is that so?" Hyougo murmured. "Your friends are under attack as we speak and your woman may very well be dying... are you going to just stand there and lecture me with your silly words and reasoning? Or will you kill me to save them? What will you do, Battosai?"

Kenshin tensed at the mention of his friends and of Kaoru, the thought of his beloved in danger sparking the adrenaline in his system and he tightened the grip on his sakabato, resting his weight on the balls of his feet, readying to spring into action without a second's hesitation. The samurai's expression grew hard, his voice lowered as he growled and lifted his sword. "I will defeat you... and protect them...Without killing."

"I'm afraid I can't let you do that... Battosai!" Hyougo snarled, his thumb cocking back the hammer before squeezing the trigger of the Colt, a flash of light erupting from the barrel as the .44 caliber lead ball shot out, speeding straight towards Kenshin who pivoted and leaned back at the last instant.

The redhead whirled, too mobile and fast for Hyougo to shoot down and Kenshin counted off the rounds, reaching the brute before he could set the hammer for his final shot. The rurouni lashed out with lightning fast strikes, the sakabato smashing into the right then left side of Hyougo's torso, breaking his ribs before finishing off the attack by lifting the blade parallel to the larger man's throat. Kenshin poured more power into the blow, the dull end crushing into Hyougo's neck, cutting off his air as the brute was knocked off his feet and back into the undamaged stone wall. The wanderer lowered his sword, marching past the fallen and now unconscious gunman, coming to a halt as a voice called out,

"Going somewhere, Battosai?"

Kenshin turned around, hardened eyes focusing on the masked figure approaching him, verifying the wanderer's suspicion as to who had dragged him away from the group moments earlier. "Gein..."

The blond pushed the mask up, exposing his scarred left cheek, matching the rurouni's own disdainful look before throwing a casual glance at the slumped over form of Hyougo. "Seems you beat one of our group easily enough... how about round two with me, eh?"

"I don't have time to play with you." Kenshin replied sharply, making to turn, stopping when the ninja spoke once more.

"Play? Who said anything about playing? I want to fight you for real," Gein countered, reaching up and behind his back, drawing out a ninjato and he held up the short sword, the straight edge gleaming in the flash of lightning from above. "So how about it, Battosai? Are you ready to face me? Or are you the one who's just... playing?"

Kenshin pivoted back to face the blond, flashing a look of anger at the taunt, studying the short sword then the ninja with dark eyes. His heart wanted to go to his friends... to protect them... and to protect his Kaoru...The uncertainty of her condition was gnawing at him. But I cannot help them until I defeat this man. Very well... you want a fight... then I will give it to you.

Feeling a sense of urgency, Kenshin used the high ground to his advantage and attacked first. He leapt into the air, lifting the blade up and over his head, both hands clasping the hilt as he swung downward in a violent motion. His sword was aimed for Gein's head, attempting to take him out with a strike of the Ryutsuisen but Gein blocked it with his ninjato, using Kenshin's own momentum against him, forcing the rurouni back and away from the shinobi.

Gein wasted no time attacking on his own, stabbing and slashing outward at Kenshin before his feet had even touched the ground.

Kenshin parried each strike, forced to remain on the defensive until his back was pressed against the side retaining wall that stretched down the length of the steps that led away from the dojo. He pushed off and dived down to the ground, rolling and jumping back up as Gein closed the distance between them. Sparks ignited and flashed in the dark as the two swords clashed in the air and locked, both men gritting their teeth as they tried to out muscle the other.

Gein gained the upper hand, driving the rurouni back and up towards the entry, dragging his shorter blade up alone the dull edge of the sakabato then flicked his wrist, twisting in motion with the sword, the steel tip biting into the skin near Kenshin's neck.

Kenshin growled and jumped back, reaching up with his left hand to test the damage to his neck and felt the slickness of blood on his fingertips. He lowered his hand back to his side and glowered at the smirking ninja. "What's so funny?"

"You... Battosai... I find you very amusing..." Gein answered, pointing his sword down at the ground as he studied the smaller man. "As if I would engage in this fight alone."

Alone? Kenshin wondered, sensing a sudden presence behind him and he spun around, eyes widening as something sharp and claw-like swiped across his chest, the metal slicing through the fabric of his kimono and along the skin, blood exploding from the ferocity of the attack. The samurai hissed and stumbled back, slashing out with his sakabato in retaliation, the blade whistling through empty air as the attacker leapt away, landing at the point of entry to the dojo. The rurouni's angered gaze focused on the cloaked figure now before him, the metallic and bloodied gauntlets instantly recognizable. So Enishi recruited one of his old conspirators from the Yaminobu... the ninja that wanted to kill me for seeing his face... "So you're part of this as well, are you?"

The cloaked figure nodded, his features hidden by some kind of faceless mask, his voice as soft and venomous as that day in the binding forest over nearly 15 years ago. "I told you I would kill you someday, Battosai..." He flexed his gauntlets, the long daggers clicking from the movement. "You've been living on borrowed time and I've come to collect that debt."

Lightning crashed, thundering roaring as the heavens were unleashed, rain falling in rapid bursts and Kenshin shivered as the cold water seeped through his clothing, his breath coming out in puffs of mists and he cast a cautious look between Gein and the interloper. The tension was building between the three as they circled around each other, weapons held up, ready to strike out and the redhead knew it was only a matter of time before someone made the first move.

Inside the training hall- Sano vs Banjin

Sano rolled with Banjin, the two men tussling on the wooden floor boards of the training hall, trading blows as they each fought for leverage. Sanosuke managed to pin the larger man down and he brought his fist up, smashing it against Inui's jaw, blood exploding from the blow and he cocked his hand back to deliver another strike only to go flying as Banjin grabbed the fighter's open shirt and yanked him violently off and to the side.

Sanosuke scrambled to his feet, eyeing his opponent as the bulkier man rose slowly.

Inui rubbed his sore jaw, wincing a bit at the pain before staring angrily at his enemy. His inability to bring down the fighter and the subsequent punches the bastard landed were really pissing him off to no end. No matter what I do or how hard I hit him, he won't quit or go down. I'm going to have to smash that hard head of his in, but how? An answer came to him then and he lunged forward, meeting Sano in the middle of the room, swatting away the brawler's right hook and he lifted his leg, kicking up and out, the sole of his booted foot connecting with Sano's midsection, knocking him backwards and down onto the floor.

The street fighter's stomach retched from the kick and he bent over, spitting up blood, struggling to straighten his back and stay on his feet.

Inui gave him no time to recover, closing the distance between them in an instant, cocking his right arm around to the left side of his own body then jabbed forward, his elbow connecting with a loud crack against Sano's temple and the brawler went flying into the side wall.

Sanosuke felt the pain radiating in his head and side, the world starting to spin but he ignored it, pushing off the wall to face Inui, anger turning to shock as Banjin was suddenly upon him.

The man in the duster snaked his hand out, clutching around the brawler's throat. Banjin squeezed, choking Sano as he slammed the fighter backwards again and again against the wall.

Sanosuke clawed at the arm, his vision blurring as the oxygen was cut off from his brain, growing weaker and weaker until he could fight no more and his arm became slack.

Megumi stood at the entrance of the hall, eyes widened in horror at the increased violence of Inui's attack, panic giving voice as she screamed, "Stop! Stop it! You're killing him!"

But Banjin would not heed her words, too wrapped up in his anger and need for revenge to loosen his hold. Instead he grew more vicious, yanking Sano back then slamming him with the full force of his strength, the wood behind the brawler cracking in stress from the attack.

Terror and anxiety pumped through Megumi's veins as she watched the man she loved being choked and beaten to death. If this keeps up... Sano will die... I can't.. I can't let him die... I have to stop this... I have to stop Banjin! Fear of her own safety went out the window and she lunged forward, launching herself onto the back of Inui, her left arm crooking around his neck, pounding on his head and the side of his face with her right fist in an attempt to make him stop.

Banjin growled at the nuisance clinging to his back and released his hold on Sano. He swung around to face the open door, charging backwards towards the wall and slammed the flailing form of Megumi into it with enough force to knock the wind out of her and she lost her grip around his neck, sliding to the ground in a heap.

Sanosuke, still in a daze, saw Megumi being smashed into the wall and suddenly the pain in his throat and body was forgotten, rage festering in his blood and something inside the brawler snapped, renewing his strength and the the fighter jumped to his feet, a loud roar echoing in the training hall as he vaulted to Inui. "You bastard!" Sano launched himself at the surprised Banjin, drawing back his right fist, landing a hit straight into the larger man's chest. The metal of the larger man's steel lined shirt cracked from the powerful blow, sharp ends digging into the soft skin underneath and Inui gasped, stunned at the pain exploding in his torso and he stumbled back, clutching the sight of the strike, blinking when he felt arms wrap suddenly around his waist. How did he manage to get behind me?! Inui cried in his mind as he was lifted off the ground and driven up and over Sanosuke's bent form then slammed into the wooden floorboard with all the force the brawler could muster.

The violent impact shuddered within Banjin's skull, the darkness claiming his consciousness and he saw and felt no more, body going slack from Sano's suplex attack.

Sanosuke rolled away and rose, his palms resting on shaky legs as he fought for breath.

"Sa...no..."

The fighter pushed off and straightened his back, turning to find Megumi staring up at him and he rushed to her side. "Megumi!" Collapsing to his knees he reached out with surprising gentleness, wiping the bit of blood trickling from her mouth. "Are you okay? Is anything broken? Where do you hurt?"

"Those are.. my lines... moron..." She croaked out but gave him a small smile to let him know she was alright and merely teasing him. Her gaze shifted to the still form of Banjin. "Is... Is he... knocked out?"

Sano followed her gaze to study Inui. "Hai... he won't be getting up from that move anytime soon."

"Good..." Megumi said, turning her head over to the box laying near the entrance door of the training hall and she motioned towards it, getting Sano's attention, her breathing returning to normal, the once throbbing pain in her back and head fading to a tolerable dull ache. "Grab my kit, will you? I want to patch you up before we head out to the engawa."

Sano frowned but got up, shuffling his feet over to the box and he bent down to retrieve it, returning to Megumi's side and handed it to her, blinking when she took his hand with her free one and pulled him down to sit opposite of her. He watched silently as the doctor opened the kit, rummaging through the contents to pull out a bottle of disinfectant, gauze, and bandages. He remained still when the physician lifted her head and leaned into him, reaching out to gently push the open shirt off his shoulders, clearing his throat when her fingertips brushed against his skin and down his arms."Are you coming on to me, fox lady?"

Megumi removed his the shirt, dropping it to the side, a small smirk tugging at her lips. "You wish..." She retorted gamely, her features growing more clinical at the sight of his injuries and she pulled back, focusing her energy on healing him. "Stay still... I'll clean and wrap up what I can."

Sano did as she requested, his head still spinning from the barrage of Banjin's fists and attacks. His ears picked up the fighting going on outside and his brow furrowed, tossing a look over his shoulder, even as Megumi cleaned the cuts on his face. Jo-chan was still fighting? If that was the case... then Kenshin was still fighting somewhere beyond the compound and could not aid her. Not that Sano was in any better shape. Still, the rurouni should have defeated his opponent already and returned to join them. So what the hell was taking him so long?

Outside the Kamiya Estate- Kenshin vs Gein and Yatsume

Kenshin felt the tension snap in the air and he braced himself as Gein and Yatsume charged him in unison. The redhead reacted, swinging out to parry the blond shinobi's ninjato, knocking him aside then blocked the swipe of Yatsume, the sword clanging against the faceless ninja's gauntlets. The samurai spun around and beyond Mumyoi, lifting the sakabato parallel to the ground and swung out and down, the blade crushing against the back of the faceless man's knees, sending him crashing into Gein.

The blond growled as he went down with Yatsume and disentangled himself from the larger shinobi. Gein rose to his feet and pivoted to face Kenshin. He used the slight incline of terrain to launch himself into the air, the ninjako up and over his shoulders and he swung straight down, aiming for the rurouni's head.

Kenshin blocked Gein's slash with the dull edge of his sakabato, gritting his teeth as Gein used his free hand to press against the ninjato, bringing the ha side of the samurai's own blade closer to his face. If I don't do something quickly, I'll be killed by my own sword! Noting that the ninja had both hands engaged in trying to kill him, the redhead reached out with his left hand, grabbing hold of the fabric of Gein's uniform and shifted, yanking him forward then let go, the momentum and incline enough for the blond to have to disengage. The shinobi stumbled down the steps, nearly ending up into the street as he righted himself and spun back around to stare up at the samurai.

Kenshin met Gein's furious gaze, his own cold and dangerous and he swept a look back to Mumyoi, watching as the faceless man rose slowly to his feet and turned to face him. The redhead held his ground, making ready to defend himself as the two ninja recovered then charged at him once again.

The front courtyard- Kaoru vs Hyouko

Hyouko was growing irritated at this strange dance of theirs. No matter how close he got to the Kamiya girl, she was always out of range of his blade and it pissed him off to no end. It made him want to hurt her... make her bleed... make her cry out... I may not be allowed to kill her... but I can still wound her! Changing tactics, Hyouko lunged forward, blade outstretched parallel to the ground, aiming for her injured shoulder only to blink as Kaoru whirled to the right, coming back around as he passed, her arm up as she chopped the back of his neck with the side of her hand. He growled at the surprising strength in the blow and pivoted around to slash outward towards her head.

But Kaoru anticipated the move, ducking down before his blade could reach and spun around, her right leg connecting with both of Hyouko's legs, sweeping them out from under him and the assassin fell back, crashing onto the ground in an ungraceful heap.

Yahiko saw his chance and shouted to draw her attention. "Kaoru!"

The girl rose, turning at the sound of Yahiko's voice, watching as her pupil tossed the wooden sword her way and she snatched it in mid air, her focus back on Hyouko who rose on slightly shaky legs and studied her and the bokken in her hand leery eyes. The last time they had fought, the girl had bested him in swordplay. It was only by using his mini crossbow that he had defeated her. But now that she was aware of the tactic, she would be too cautious to fall for it again.

Kaoru saw the assassin's hesitation and she held the wooden sword to her right and away. "What's the matter, Hyouko? Are you scared now? Do you wish to surrender?"

Hate crossed the thin man's features, the taunt making his blood boil. "Surrender? To a girl? Never!" Hyouko snarled, lunging forward with his blade, swinging in wild and violent arcs, forcing Kaoru further away from the main building and the safety of her friends.

Kaoru parried his attacks, tapping the side of the blade with her bokken, keeping her focus solely on her opponent as she retreated and remained on the defensive, luring him in with a false sense of strength. That's it... a little bit more and I'll have you right where I want you.

Hyouko smirked at the sweat and fatigue he could see on the girl's youthful features. "You're wearing down, Kamiya... you should give up now... before you get hurt..."

Kaoru flashed a smirk of her own. "The one who should give up now... is you!" She shouted, coming to a sudden stop, crouching down to avoid the side slash from her opponent's sword, shifting the position of her bokken and sprung up with the full force of her legs, the tip of the wooden sword smashing underneath the chin of Hyouko, driving him up and off his feet. Hyouko's eyes bugged out at the painful strike, landing on shaky legs that buckled and he collapsed to his knees, catching himself with his palms as he leaned forward, panting and spitting up blood. His chin felt like it was broken though he knew it wasn't. His eyes were trained to the ground, his shock hidden by the rain as it began to fall heavily. What the hell was that attack just now?!

As if reading his mind, Kaoru spoke. "That was the Ryuu Sougeki... a special move for close quarters sword combat... making use of crouching to aid in the attack..." She paused, studying the man with questioning eyes. "I told you before you will never be able to beat me at kenjutsu... you should give up while you can."

But Hyouko would not relent. "Damn you..." He spat, lifting his gaze to stare hatefully up at Kaoru as he rose and snarled, "You think you have what it takes to beat me? Me? Hyouko Otowa, master assassin?! I won't be beaten by a mere girl! I refuse!"

Kaoru watched him move to his feet and lifted her bokken, holding it at waist level in front of her as she retorted, "I may be a mere girl to you, Hyouko Otowa... but I will still beat you... do you know why? Because I am a master of the Kasshin Ryu and this is my home... and the people that live in it are my family... You threatened my family... and no one threatens my family and gets away with it," She tightened the grip on her bokken, her expression resolved to fight out of love for the people she cared about. "I won't let you hurt my friends... and I won't let you harm Kenshin."

Hyouko curled his lip. He couldn't beat her at kenjustu... and he couldn't beat her with his crossbow... that left only one option... I had hoped to save it to use on the Battosai... but I have no choice... He lifted his sword, making a big show of pointing it at the girl, distracting her with the motion as he made a subtle twist of his left arm, clutching the small round vial that slipped into his left palm.

Yahiko watched the fight intently, pleasantly surprised at the skill of his master. He had never seen Kaoru fight like this before. But the stakes were high... of course she'd be giving it her all... she wants to protect us... all of us... Rain continued to fall rapidly from the overburdened sky, the flash of lightning and the rumble of thunder overhead more intense as the storm was unleashed. Maybe if we're lucky, lightning will strike Enishi and end this stupid plot of revenge. Yeah, right... He chided himself. Nothing was ever that easy... not for any of them.

Yahiko caught Hyouko rising out of the corner of his eye and he turned his head, focusing his attention on the wounded assassin. The man's left arm twitched slightly and the boy saw something small and round moving against the muddied fabric of his kimono sleeve. What was that? He looked over at Kaoru, wondering if she had caught sight of Hyouko's arm twitch. What is that bastard up to?

The assassin kept his eyes locked on Kaoru's hardened features and smirked at the feel of the trump card in his hand. Now or never! His mind shouted and he charged forward without warning, manic glee crossing his face as he roared, "I'm going to defeat you and take Kenshin's head as my prize!"

Kaoru braced for his charge, preparing to defend herself, when the assassin suddenly lifted his left arm and threw something in her direction. She reacted instinctively, swinging her bokken to swat the object down. Glass shattered upon impact, a clear fluid exploding over the side of the wooden sword, part of it splashing onto Kaoru's face and into her eyes. She cried out at the sudden and intense searing pain, her vision now blurred, unable to see Hyouko close the distance between them.

"Kaoru!" Yahiko shouted in terror, his voice carrying on the wind and beyond the ruined gate of the compound.

Outside the Kamiya Estate

Kenshin heard the name of his beloved carried upon the wind, the fear in Yahiko's voice stabbing straight to his heart. Kaoru! Something's happened to her! I have to get to her! I have to save her! Panic and desperation fueled the samurai's strength and he reacted, slashing at Gein in a series of rapid strikes and blows, forcing the blond to parry and he brought his leg up, lashing out with a swift kick to the midsection, knocking the ninja off his feet, sending him tumbling down the stairs and into the street below. He sensed Yatsume behind him and pivoted around, bringing the reverse blade up and parallel to the ground, the mune side of his sword clinking against the metallic gauntlets of the masked shinobi. Kenshin's arm strained at the force of Mumyoi's attack but his desire to get to Kaoru overrode the weakness of his body, giving him more power and the redhead roared, pushing violently against the gauntlets, forcing the ninja backwards before disengaging from the attack, whirling around and beyond his enemy, sword already up and out as he spun back, the sakabato slamming into the back of Yatsume's neck.

The masked shinobi cried out as he was struck, his lanky form sent flying before it crashed into the steps below, his body going still as he was knocked out by the force of the attack.

Kenshin didn't bother to look back, the knot in his stomach urging him to hurry and he lowered his blade, racing up the steps, hoping to make it to Kaoru in time.

Front courtyard of the Kamiya Estate

Kaoru clenched her eyes shut as the pain intensified and she collapsed onto her knees, unable to defend herself from the charging form of Hyouko.

I've got you now! The assassin cried in triumph, remembering Enishi's warning, twisting the blade so that the dull side would hit her and he lifted it over his head, making to strike her down only to blink when his sword suddenly stopped. What the hell?!

In that moment, Kenshin entered the courtyard, eyes widening at the same time Sano and Megumi's did upon their exit from the training hall.

There, standing in front of Kaoru, was Yahiko.

Hyouko glared at the boy's crossed wrists, his sword trapped harmlessly between them, a wooden sword still clenched in his small hand. "Why you little..." He growled, his voice suddenly cut off as Yahiko twisted his wrists, shifting the blade aside and out of the stunned assassin's hands, slashing outward with full force in his counter strike.

"Kamiya Kasshin Hawatari!" Yahiko shouted above the roar of thunder, the bokken smashing into the side of Hyouko's neck, knocking the assassin back and away from him and the still blinded Kaoru.

"That was for Kaoru, you stupid jerk!" Yahiko shouted, flinging the katana away before turning to face the larger male, the boy's wooden sword stretched out to the side as he advanced towards a shocked Hyouko. "And now I'm going to make you pay for hurting her!"

With no sword and no more poison to defend himself, Hyouko resorted to his last available weapon. "I don't think so, kid!" The effeminate man roared and fired the crossbow, laughing as the arrow shot straight towards Yahiko only to pale as the boy dodged the projectile and struck back, slashing out with a quick swing of his wooden blade.

"You!"The student of the Kasshin Ryu shouted as the solid matter of his sword slammed into Hyouko's right leg. "Leave!" He roared, his cries of anger mingling with Hyouko's screams of pain as he continued his relentless assault, a quick strike slamming into the assassin's left leg. "My!" He shifted the bokken up, slamming the wood into the right side of Hyouko's torso. "Sensei!" Another hit connected on the left side of the assassin's rib cage. "Alone!" Yahiko spun around for the final move, slashing in an upward diagonal strike, the wood cracking against the side of Hyouko's head and the assassin was knocked off his feet, his battered form crashing into the brush near the maple tree.

Yahiko kept his angry gaze on the still form of Hyouko then spun around, fear over his teacher guiding his actions, his own eyes widening at the sight of Kenshin as the rurouni rushed over to Kaoru.

With the danger over at the moment, Kenshin went to his betrothed, concern and fear laced in his voice as he reached out and pulled Kaoru into his embrace. "Kaoru... you're alive... thank Kami-sama... I thought something bad happened to you."

"Kenshin?" Kaoru murmured, feeling the shaking form of her beloved as he held her and she wrapped her arms around him, her own body shivering in the cold rain as the adrenaline faded from her body. "What... what happened?"

The samurai frowned, pulling back to look at her, finding her gaze unfocused. "Can you see me, Kaoru?"

"No... Hyouko threw something and blinded me... I cannot see..." She reached up to touch his face. "But you're alive... and safe... I was so worried about you."

His heart broke at her words, even as her touch warmed him and he returned the attention, turning his gaze over to the deck at Megumi's voice.

"Take her over to the well, Ken-san and hurry!"

The samurai did as the doctor ordered, guiding her to the well as the doctor rushed over and pulled up a bucket, then took Kaoru's hands and placed them gently into water for her.

"I want you to splash water into your eyes and don't stop until your vision starts to clear."

The kendo instructor did as Megumi suggested, flushing her eyes with the cold water until light began to return to her.

Kenshin saw Yahiko approach and he smiled, feeling pride and relief at what the boy had done to protect Kaoru. He reached out to rest his hand on the boy's shoulder, features soft and voice full of honest praise. "Yahiko... you did well today... you are turning into a fine swordsman... I am proud of you... and I'm sure Kaoru is, too. And I want to thank you... for keeping Kaoru safe while I was delayed."

The boy blushed darkly at the praise in Kenshin's voice. "I was just doing... what Kaoru taught me to do..."

"Yes... but she is more than just a teacher to you... That you defended her without thought to yourself means that you love her as you would a sister... and mother.."

Yahiko looked over at Kaoru. She was like a sister and mother to him and though she could be a pain in the butt sometimes, he did love and respect her. He opened his mouth to speak only to go silent when the sound of clapping suddenly erupted from above high and the her lifted his head, the rest of the group following as they stared up at the smirking form of Enishi.

Kenshin reluctantly left Kaoru's side, murmuring to the boy. "Stick close to Kaoru for me, will you, Yahiko?"

"R... right..." Yahiko replied, watching as Kenshin walked past him and into the rain soaked courtyard.

The samurai lifted his head, angry brown orbs glaring at Enishi who lowered his hands back to his side and addressed his ex-brother-in-law,

"Well done, Battosai... your friends are quite formidable... the show has been very entertaining so far..."

"Bastard..." Kenshin growled. "This isn't some damn show for your amusement!"

"On the contrary, it is a show..." Enishi countered, raindrops clinging to his glasses as reached up to slide them up the bridge of his nose. "A show of your abilities... or lack there of..."

"I'm tired of your games, Enishi..." Kenshin snarled, pointing his Sakabato up at the white haired man. "So come down here now and face me!"

"Come down and face you?" Enishi murmured, a dark expression upon his pale countenance. "I'm the one in control here, Battosai, not you... I'll come down when you've defeated every single one of my fighters."

"Every single one of your fighters..." Kenshin repeated and waved his sakabato to the side. "Look around, Enishi, the only one in your group still standing is you."

Enishi's lips twisted into a crooked grin. "Are you sure about that?"

The redhead studied the white haired man in confusion, catching a flash of movement to his right and he whipped around, a look of fear exploding on his face as Yatsume shot through the ruined gate, his right gauntlet outstretched towards his beloved and the rurouni charged forward, screaming in panic, "Kaoru, Look out!"

Kaoru snapped her head up at the sound of Kenshin's terrified voice, whirling around at his warning. Her eyes grew big as something sharp and deadly entered her vision then stopped suddenly just short of her throat, the tip of a katana bursting through the left side of her attacker's chest, blood splattering on the right sleeve of the girl's white kimono.

Kenshin reached Kaoru's side, wrapping a protective arm around her as he pulled her back and behind him, surprised eyes focused beyond the gasping form of Yatsume, finding a familiar face staring back at him.

"Well, well... seems I've arrived in the nick of time... Himura..."

Another chapter complete. Saito has joined the battle and after that... Enishi and Kenshin will have their showdown and Jinchuu will be delivered. I really struggled with this one and if you find the pacing odd, I apologize. Having three prolonged battles going on at once is damn tricky. If you liked it please do review. It really makes my day to hear from people that read this story of mine