Title: Otsu
One measure of peace, for a lifetime spent in battle.
Disclaimer: Rurouni Kenshin is the property of Watsuki Nobuhiro, Fuji, Jump Comics, Sony and Shueisha.
Away from the grandeur of the silver-eaved shrines, the sonorous ringing of the shoja bells, the manicured gardens in all their quiet magnificence.
Away from the comings-and-goings of gaijin fleet, the hot-headed politics, their equally cold-hearted games.
Away from the lingering metallic stench in every alley, the shadows that made blood-curling screams rent the night, the tides of crimson that washed her doorstep at dawn.
He crouched in the dark corner, gripping his katana even in repose, overwrought senses responding to the faintest brush of wind.
Where the vermillion tints of a maiko's obi were seen in the colours of the dying sun.
Where the tallest of abodes stood overawed by the jade majesty of the mountains.
Where the days were greeted not with dread, but with open arms, and the nights spent gazing into the charcoal hearth.
She hoped, as she wrapped him in plum scented dreams, that he had at least found a place to rest his soul.
Glossary
Gaijin-foreign
Katana-Japanese long sword
Maiko- An apprentice geisha-a performer of arts and conversation. Only at an apprentice stage do geishas wear brightly coloured clothes. Later on, their clothing gets more refined and subdued.
Obi- Belt
Authors Note: On an absolute writing spree so far. Didn't really set out to write this one,
This is just what comes to mind when I imagine Bakumatsu Kyoto. Trying to make the change from writing lengthy fics to something short and concise, tell me how I'm progressing. Review please!