Standard disclaimers apply.

Sake

A short scene from Trust and Betrayal (Rurouni Kenshin). Kenshin's thoughts as he is out on that one night with Tomoe.

I picked up my cup of sake, half-listening to Tomoe's soft voice making light attempts at conversation. The alcohol was clear and reflected my sullen face in it. I took a sip numbly, then gasped. Tomoe looked up at me, tilting her head slightly to the side, noticing the sharp intake of air I had unconsciously admitted.

"What's wrong?" She asked.

"Nothing," I spoke finally. I had just noticed how cold and unfeeling I sounded. "The sake," I explained, "it tastes good again." I saw a small smile escape her lips.

Visions of Hiko's lecture on sake played in my mind. You'll soon understand when you are older, he told me, and then laughed when I distorted my face at my first taste of the bitter drink. Now I realize... it is a reflection of... my life, in a sense.

"Would you like more?"

"Yes- please." I would let the lingering taste of sake stay in my mouth for a while.