(Later in the meeting room)

Hijikata began speaking, "Before Kosu turned into that monster we call rasetsu he drank a glass vile that had red liquid inside it. The liquid was able to give anyone who drank it abilities to heal faster and to become stronger, yet this came with a devastating price. In return for the strength of the abilities the liquid called 'the Elixir' makes men go crazy for blood. They will be okay to be around as long as there's no blood." "I see." But Hijikata still looked at me furrowing his brows.

"You must absolutely not tell anyone else what you just learned. Know that if you do we will kill you without hesitation. Only the Shinsengumi's top captains know about this." I take in a long inhale and exhale before stating "You don't have to worry I'm not some sort of blabber mouth that goes around telling people secrets anyways. By the way if you guys ever try to kill me let me just inform you Shinsengumi that you all would fail at that simple task."

"We're not that blunt Hashiro." Hijikata said. Then I wander my gaze onto Kondou, he looks as if he doesn't want me to know but yet wants me to know about the elixir. "I never said you guys were now did I?" I purposely make a yawn. "Ah geez it's already getting late, if you all don't mind I need to sleep." "Wait there isn't any more rooms left here." Harada called after me as I opened the door. "Well then I'll go find an inn or somthin'." I reply back to them. I take a look at Hijikata. "What is it Shiro?" He asked strictly. I smile teasingly at them, "I was just wondering why you called me by my full name is all." "Oh" I heard Hijikata mutter under his breath. "See you all tomorrow." I said before leaving. Silently I close the door.

Nighttime came as I approach a cozy looking inn. It seems to have big enough rooms to sleep in. When I was taken to my room I summoned a giant scroll unlocking a section which has a better kimono to sleep in. After changing and sealing up the scroll I lay down on the futon falling asleep. The next morning I walked around the town looking at the shops until I ran across some rogue samurais harassing a father and son. The father looked afraid but the child stood tall. A rouge samurai seemed to be holding a pouch. "Give us our money back thieves!" the boy almost commanded. "Eh? How dare you call us thieves you little brat!?" one of the rogues said unsheathing his katana. In fear the boy closed his eyes while the rogue samurai came charging, luckily I ran over grabbing the arm of the samurai flipping him to the ground with a loud thump. "What the heck are you doing girl!?" Another of the rogue samurai asked. "I was just assisting these two people. You're the rogue samurai right? Shouldn't guys like you be helping innocent people?" I ask with a taunting voice. "Hey how dare a little girl like you say that to us!? We worked our butts off trying to protect Kyoto for the emporer and now you're insulting us?" I look at them. "How sad." I say under my breath. All three rogue samurai excluding the one I just attacked unsheathed their swords running my way. Quickly and quietly I slip behind them striking their shoulders making them unable to move. "What the?!" one of them said while lifelessly-like falling down to the ground. I grab the pouch and hand it over to the father who seemed to be in a slightly better mood.

Bowing politely while giving him his money I say "Sorry for interfering sir I just had to help, my apologies." He looked at me with a kind but scared face. His hand quivered slowly reaching for his pouch. "T-thank you." He said before running off with the boy. Everyone around gave me faces of somewhat amazement and terror. I heard a woman saying behind her sleeve "My, my that young girl was able to beat the rogue samurai. She must have immense strength how fearsome." I give her an apologetic face. I walk toward her; little by little she tries to walk away looking shocked. When I was in front of her I bow down "I'm sorry miss if I have frightened you. As you all can see I can fight very well but I promise not to use it against anyone here who isn't being cruel to another." I give her a warm comforting smile. She smiles back. "I guess I misjudged you for that I am sorry myself." She said nodding. "Thank you for understanding ma'am." I say with one last glimpse of people looking calmly at me.

"Hey! Don't forget us girl!" A rogue samurai shouted. I'll leave them here. I walk away farther. I'm glad they don't think I'm a demon. Since I am one. I was starting to think that I might like this place, but yet I ran into Harada with his unit. "Oh, Shiro come over here." Harada cried. I walk his way. "What is it?" I ask a little irritated that I somehow seem to keep running into them. "We need you back at headquarters. We're all heading back now." Harada explained. I take a deep breath and exhale. "What do you guys want? I'll stay here in town, I won't leave unless you guys really want me to or if I have to go somewhere for an emergency." "That's not really the point. Well, the rest will be explained later when we arrive at headquarters." Harada said while rubbing the back of his head. "Alright I'll come." I say.

(At headquarters) "Shiro it's good to see you again!" Heisuke greeted. I smile "Yeah, I guess it's kinda good to be back." I reply to his greeting. "I didn't think you'd come back Shiro." Souji teased walking up to us. Saito came as well "We need to go to the meeting room. We still need to discuss what to do with you Shiro." Saito says looking my way. All walking together the same girl from last night opens the door for us. I'm betting is Chizuru Yukimura. "Thank you Chizuru." I say to her. Looking shocked like everyone else since no one told me her name yet. For my kind of demon clan it's almost normal for us to know your name without being told or asking you. It's really only a shame that I'm the last one.

"H-how did you know?" Chizuru asked. "Instincts." I say once more. Closing the door behind us I look at Sannan, Hijikata, and Kondou. "Good to see you again Shiro. Ahaha, although we saw you last night it feels as if it's been longer." Kondou says while laughing. I jump to the point. "So what do you guys plan to do with me?" Looking sternly as ever Hijikata answers, "We plan to keep you here along with Chizuru sitting over there." Hijikata said gesturing toward Chizuru. "Since the both of you are girls we figured it would make more sense. You could be a warrior fighting with us in battle if you want to; by the way Shiro do you have any medical experience?" I answer "Yes, I was also trained for a medic as well. I am considered an expert in nearly all areas such as science, astronomy, fighting, chi blocking, casting spells and sealing spells, summoning items, keeping secrets, socializing, acting, eavesdropping, housework, cooking, playing music and so on. Almost everyone who knows me well calls me a genius."

Everyone looked at me surprised of my knowledge I'm guessing. "Wow, Shiro you really know a lot of stuff." Harada complimented. "Excuse me," Chizuru called from the back. "I-I think Shiro should join the Shinsengumi, I also would like to know you more Shiro." Chizuru finished, but is blushing a bright light pink color. "Hey Shiro, come to think of names how come you and Kosu didn't tell us your guy's surname?" I froze before sighing. "It's not really allowed in our family clan that we say our surnames. It makes it dangerous for descendants to live in peace and keep our identity a secret." "Shiro exactly what do you mean by that?" Shinpatchi asked. "Our demon family suffers much more than any of you here can ever think of. My demon clan is very different than most common demons, we're stronger and some more cold hearted, we possess more knowledge and power, for example someone in my family can be the gatekeeper or leader of Hell where the dead stays. But we pureblooded demons have the hardest life to live than those with some human lineage because of the full demon blood coursing through our veins. For now that is all the information I can trust you Shinsengumi captains with. I will tell you guys more if I can truly trust you all." I say calmly.

With a long pause Chizuru admitted something I already knew when I made eye contact. "I-I'm an oni." Chizuru admitted almost whimpering. "What's an oni?" Heisuke asked. "Oni are also demons but clearly different from my kind, her injuries can heal within seconds and she can unleash power when in a very angry mood. Our wounds heal as well but the differences are the powers and status compared to each other." "Don't tell them that much Shiro!" Chizuru blurted. I slyly smile, "Don't worry Chizuru, I can erase their memories including yours if I want to." I say in a casual way. "Wait what?! You can erase minds?! You're not going to do that are you Shiro?" Heisuke said while standing up cupping his head with his hands in a frustrating way. It somehow seemed funny, I lightly giggled. Everyone stare at me wide eyes some of them are even blushing a little. "Shiro's so adorable when she giggles right Shinoachi-san?" Okita asked. Which I was sure he actually meant to embarrass me. "Uh?" I mutter my head tilting to the right.

"Ahem," Kondou cleared his throat, "So Shiro will you stay here at headquarters sharing the room with Chizuru?" I could tell they all wanted me to stay. "Please Shiro I really want to be good friends with you." Chizuru begged only making me regret trusting them. But I think again, to the time when I met my first best friend. She was so kind to me and in return I did the same, we felt like family until…until the fire. Burning red and orange. Everything's burning! Noo! No Ami don't go! Don't die, please, please come back! Crimson blood all over me, the death aura, the rotting place, it reeks of smoke, and pain. One person saw this and survived. Me. "Hey, Shiro. Shiro are you okay?!" Chizuru asked with concern written over her gentle face. At this point everyone was surrounding me with serious and concerned looks. I nod. It was becoming the evening again. I stand up, "Okay I'll stay here, it's getting late and I'm tired. Chizuru can you show me our room?" "Hai(yes)!" Chizuru exclaimed smiling.

Walking me to the room took only a minute or two. Once Chizuru opened the door I walked in and sat down on the right side of her futon. I summon the scroll again and heard Chizuru gasp loudly. I press my hands gently on a mark in the middle of the scroll, popping out was a futon. I close the scroll and lay on my futon. "What? Didn't I tell you that I can summon items?" "Aah?! Yes!" I smiled relaxing. Just a minute later I hear Chizuru's voice echoing a bit, whoops I'm reading her mind. 'Shiro-chan looks so beautiful and kind when she smiles. (exhaling) I wish I could smile like her. It seems everyone thinks she fits in. I do too but then why…' "So you think I look beautiful when I'm smiling?" I teased. "Agh, you can read my mind?!" Chizuru exclaimed in surprise and shock. I started laughing softly, seeing Chizuru embarrassed also looked funny. 'She's cute too even when she laughs!' "Chizuru do you honestly think that whatever I do is cute?" I joked. "Shiro-chan please stop reading my mind!" Chizuru said while blushing a darker shade of pink. "You don't have to use honorifics on my name Chizuru." I say looking a little serious.

"Oh, and sometimes I don't realize I'm reading minds so my bad he he sorry Chizuru." Chizuru smiled slightly tilting her head to the right. "It's okay. You seem like a nice person Shiro." I close my eyes "I guess you can say so. C'mon it's getting late let's go to sleep Chizuru." "Hm, okay." After Chizuru changed into a lighter yukata we both went to sleep peacefully dreaming.

In the late afternoon I helped Chizuru with lunch for everyone. Sitting in the dining room made me feel a tiny bit uncomfortable. "Is something wrong Shiro?" Hijikata asked more trustingly. I shake my head no. "I'm just not used to eating with people that much is all. Otherwise I'm fine." Smiling warmly at everyone in the room. "Ah, I'm so happy that Shiro and Chizuru-chan are staying here. They both can be very fine helpers around this place." Heisuke said heartily "Arigato Heisuke-kun." Chizuru said smiling back at the young man around our age. "The place seems a bit livelier when you two are here." Sannan added. Last night I have been having weird dreams though, I dreamt of the Shinsengumi dying. All of them, not in war or battling, someone murdered them. Instantly uncle's face shows for a spit second. 'What? I didn't kill him?!' I thought to myself. "Hey Shiro you look a little pale are you sure you're okay?" Harada questioned. I slowly stand up "I think I just need some fresh air. That's all." I bowed and walked to the door opening it, only to see Souji standing there. "I didn't know you two were up. How come no one told me?" Souji asked, smirking while pouting. "I just didn't want to see your face every single minute of my life." I say out loud. "Is that so? Shiro-chan that's mean." Souji teased. "Please don't use honorific on my name Souji." Chizuru gasped thinking 'Shiro is already calling Okita-san by his first name?' I turn to look at her. "Well Chizuru I'm more used to saying first names than surnames, but I can call you guys by surnames if you prefer." I reply to her question. "Shiro I thought you said that you were going to stop reading my mind?" Chizuru exclaimed. "Chizuru like I said, sometimes I don't even realize I'm even doing it." I say making a motion with my hands raising them up and then using the left hand fanning it their direction.

"You told us you could do many things but you didn't mention reading minds!" Heisuke shouted in surprise. "Yeah, yeah you all don't have to shout. I can hear you all of you guys nice and clear." I say irritated. "How interesting, I can't wait to learn more about you Hashiro." Souji said. I can tell he's trying to irritate me more, but I let it slide. "Well it seems you're all done eating, if you don't mind I'm going for a walk around town. I'll be back around early evening." I walk to the entrance of headquarters waiting for everyone to gather. "I'm off." I call back. "Don't stay out any later than early evening Shiro!" Hijikata warned. I smile "I can protect myself." I say before leaving.

(Kyoto streets) When I walked down the streets of Kyoto I've gotta admit I heard a lot of bad rumors about the Shinsengumi or the 'Mibu wolves'. When people say in a whisper behind my back I hear my name being mentioned along with the Shinsengumi. Instead of looking scared and disgusted they gave me faces of pity. It kinda annoys me when people think I can't handle myself just because I'm a girl. It was getting late, the streets were nearly empty I turn around and walk back to Shinsengumi headquarters. On the way though a man with blonde hair came toward me, I sensed he was a pureblood oni like Chizuru. "Hmm your aura seems unusual. What is your name girl?" He asked with a calm low toned voice. From my demon instincts his name is Chikage Kazama. "My full first name is Hashiro but everyone usually calls me Shiro." I answer politely just because he was an oni. Demon to demon. He looks straight into my eyes, he's trying to learn more about me with his demonic power. "You are obviously not a human, and not exactly an oni," Kazama pauses. "But you are also valuable, maybe more than a pureblood female oni." I give him an innocent confused face. "Never mind that. What is your full name Shiro?" I ignore that question and keep walking. He tunrs his head my way almost glaring, "You dare walk away from someone like me when I'm asking you a question? You're poorly trained in manners." I stop for a moment looking back at him glaring then continue walking forward. Before realizing it Kazama was in front of me holding my chin up to look at his face. "You surely are aware that I can take your innocence this moment now, right?" After staring into my eyes he smiles and bends down lower toward my face! Instantly I push him back and decided to teleport to headquarters rather than run there.

I never thought a male oni would act that way. I thought to myself. I was pretty shocked I certainly didn't want to see him again anytime soon. "Oi(hey), Shiro you're back." Shinpachi said, sitting with Harada and Heisuke on the steps. "Hey Shiro found anything interesting while walking the streets?" Heisuke asked. I dramatically shake my head, "No I unfortunately didn't." I say adding a quiet sigh. "Hahaha! Shiro you're funny!" Heisuke complimented again slowly stopping his laughter. I heard a quiet pair of footsteps. "Oh, welcome back Shiro. You came back a little later than we thought; we were getting worried about you." Chizuru explained. I smile "Yeah walking the streets were so much fun I almost forgot I had to limit my time there." I say jokingly. "Well you better come back earlier if you want to go back walking tomorrow Shiro." Hijikata said scolding me a little, where did he come from? "Hai, hai Toshi you're so strict. You remind me of my sensei back when I was training as a ninja." I teased winking. "Oh, Shiro you were trained to also be a ninja, that's so awesome." Heisuke said amazed. "Yeah he was always dragging me through the hallways to the training hall whenever I slept in and he'd always say that I need to work harder and have a brighter will of fire. Hmm," I say, just remembering the happiest memories in the world made me remember the worst. The first time I had amnesia and remember they said I fell into a coma for some time before awaking and trying to get used to the horrid memories. I sigh deeply "Now I kinda miss him. He was actually the nicest sensei compared to the others." I sadly continue.

Unable to bear anymore memories of that time I quickly changed the subject. "So have all of you captains been together for a long time? You know, like childhood or so?" I ask wondering what they would say. "Actually, yes most of us have been together for a very long time, we're almost like family." Kondou replied he was right next to Hijikata looking at Souji and him while saying this. "Family huh?" I whisper to myself. "Pardon what did you say Shiro?" Kondou asked. I slumped down putting my elbows on my knees. "It's nothing. I was just thinking, no matter how happy some people are they've been through many hard times. Over the years I realized this is very common around those who are supposedly happy." Silence followed for a while. The sun escaping view slowly hiding behind the horizon as the colors of light pink, purple, medium blue, and dark blue appear in the evening sky, darkening more to see some stars shining already. "It's getting late maybe we should go inside and rest for the night." Harada suggested. Standing up with Heisuke, Shinpachi and Souji. The captains were all standing and seemed to be waiting for us to go as well. "I'll just sit here for a little while longer. I like being under the stars." I answer to their blank faces. Their looks went to Chizuru who was standing a few feet behind me. "I-I'll stay with Shiro for a while too." Chizuru said, blushing again and settling down on the opposite side of the steps. "If you say so, but neither of you two will run away got it? Stay here if you want but go to bed soon." Hijikata said while walking with everyone else. "Tsk, tsk, Hijikata-san you worry too much for them. If anything went wrong Shiro's there to help right Shiro?" Souji asked looking deep into my eyes, sensing that he was a little worried for me as well. I nod "Yeah I can take care of myself I'll be fine." I say assuring. Soon enough everyone but Chizuru and I were alone gazing calmly at the little stars shining above our heads.

"Chizuru aren't you tired?" I finally asked from the long quiet moment. Chizuru smiled sheepishly. "Just a little. You?" "Nope not at all tonight." I say with confident. It was getting later. The bright 1st quarter moon shone down nearly exactly above us. "It's really late you should go to bed Chizuru." I say. Yawning a little Chizuru nodded, slowly getting up so she wouldn't fall or trip she started heading back to our room. A few yards away Chizuru stopped looking confused "Shiro, aren't you going to bed too?" Chizuru asked tilting her head which looked like she fell asleep standing up. "Oh, I'll be coming. Just go to sleep I promise I'll come soon." I say staring straight into Chizuru's dark brown eyes. Nodding again Chizuru went on ahead. After she was completely gone from sight I quietly sighed to myself. But an urge of a familiar presence approached. Kazama! I quickly run smoothly against the cool air and go through the entrance trying to lead Kazama away. I stood on the empty street of houses. Kazama appeared before me as planned. "What do you want?" I asked coldly. "I just wanted to confirm if you could be a replacement for Chizuru." I feel shocked but I don't show it the slightest bit. He teleported in front of me taking a strong hold of my left wrist, I squirmed and twisted trying to get away from his grasp. He was surprisingly stronger than I expected. "You're coming with me." He said smirking.

I aimed for his shoulder hitting it lightly. His grip loosened. I break free. "How dare you Shiro." He said in an annoyed tone. Trying to move his right arm and fingers, but failed both his arm and fingers were completely useless for the moment. "Don't mess with me! I can completely defend myself besides who would want to go with you?!" I fiercely say. "Hmm, maybe Chizuru is an easier target to get than you." He muttered. I slightly giggled, Kazama looked at me confused yet calm. "What's so funny?" He asked. "Uh, nothing." I answer. I stop giggling when he smiles. I get in my stance, he quickly appears behind me. Taking caution he holds me from behind across my stomach, keeping my arms tightly at my side. How could he use his right arm already? Even a demon would be numb for nearly a whole day, but his armed was back to normal within a minute! "It seems we've underestimated each other. Now you're coming with me." He repeated sternly. I try to get loose but he wouldn't let me this time. Finally I stop, I start gasping a little tired. Just then a man with dark red hair appeared, Kazama lets me go instantly. "What are you doing here Amagiri?" Kazama asked sounding irritated again. "I came to get you we have to return our favors to the Satsuma clan." He reminded.

Kazama looked at me. "Make sure you and Chizuru keep your eyes open." He said, and then they both disappeared. As I walk back to headquarters I wondered how he knew I was with Chizuru. Arriving at the entrance I go straight to the room lay down on my futon and sleep.

(Morning) It was already bright outside, Chizuru was out of her futon, it was already made. I changed into men's clothing like Chizuru and walked outside. The men seemed to be training each other they're all the units together in a courtyard; I have to say there are a lot of them too. I walk in the dining room when I heard that they were moving to a bigger headquarters. I opened the door sitting outside. "Shiro come in, you need to hear this too." Hijikata said looking at me for a while then back at Kondou. I nod I see Chizuru was in here too next to Heisuke, I close the door. "For us to be able to hide Sannan-san we need a bigger headquarters." Hijiktata announced. I think for a little. I gently hit my right palm. "Toshi I have an idea of where you guys can stay." I say full of confidence and somewhat happiness.

"Really? Where Shiro?" Kondou asked with some desperation. I smile wide "One of my mother's best friends has a giant mansion very close on the outskirts of Kyoto." I answer. "That's great Shiro, but will your mothers friend be okay with us in their home?" I nod. "He's alright for people like you guys to come no matter how many of the Shinsengumi would be in his home, under two conditions. You Shinsengumi will not mess with his belongings around the house unless it's meant for guests such as pillows blankets and so on, and if you all would at least have some manners for him, his wife, and their heir don't forget the servants either. Now I just need to go a day or two earlier to get the mansion ready for all of you" I say. "Oh this is just great Shiro, you've been really helping us. Thank you." I politely wave my hand 'no', "Actually I didn't do much." "Nonsense Shiro, by helping us move to a bigger headquarters it can help us with hiding Sa.." "You're too loud Kondou-san." Hijikata interrupted. "Oh yeah sorry about that Toshi he he." Kondou sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. "Who are you guys going to hide?" I ask hoping they would answer my question "We have to hide Sannan-san to protect something important." Hijikata answered. "Oh I see." I simply say.

"Alright since Shiro has a place for us to stay as new headquarters we will move there in two days." Kondou announced. I stand up walking toward the door; I stop and look back before opening the door. "Well, I'll be on my way to prepare the rooms. Do you guys want to share rooms or separate for each person?" "We can share rooms." Sannan said. "Okay." I smile wide again and go.

(Two days later) "This is awesome the place is huge!" Heisuke shouted. "Thank you once again for telling us about your mother's friend's home. We hope we won't be a bother here." Sannan thanked. "Yeah? Well, save that for Akio Okura he's the one who actually owns the place." I say making an embarrassed and the no wait don't say thanks to me face.

"Alright then when can we see him?" Kondou asked. I think before saying, "If you want to you guys can see him right now. He's in his quarters, his son is out training and I believe his wife is with him." "Okay then let's go meet him. I truly hope this won't be too much of a hassle for Okura-dono." Kondou apologetically said. I gesture for them to follow me as I lead them through the mansion's hallways. We arrive at his room I kneel down in front of the door, "Akio the Shinsengumi commanders and some of the unit captains are here." I called before opening the door, revealing him sitting in front of his desk with a beautiful woman at his side.

'So that must be his wife.' Harada thought. Telepathically I say back 'Yes she is his wife so don't go flirting with her whatsoever ya hear Harada.' He jumped a little staring back at me only to see me smiling mischievously looking way. "Oh, so these people are the commanders and unit captains you've been telling me about huh?" Akio said turning from his desk facing the Shinsengumi and bowing slightly to show respect. "Oh please don't bow before us Okura-dono we should be the ones bowing to you." Kondou waved his hand midair saying 'no please sir it really should be us bowing to you.' But Akio just laughed "Oh, Kondou-san it's not like I'm a lord. Really I'm just like a man with a giant house I don't hold up such a high status like the shogun. I am just glad that Etsu's daughter was able to meet you Shinsengumi all of you seem to be suitable men for friends." He said, catching me flinch when he said my birthmother's name. "Ah that's right Shiro, I'm sorry I forgot." He looked at me concerned. That's because only close friends such as Akio know that my family clan was wiped out and that the killer my uncle who is probably still alive. "What does he mean Shiro?" Sannan asked. Even Akio's wife looked a little depressed. I look up at him and the rest of the Shinsengumi. "I will tell you the details once I know that I can fully trust all of you with my family's secrets and actions." I answer as if I would fall to pieces if they asked more. Kondou feeling the dense atmosphere he tried moving on with a different topic. "Ah, Okura-san, I wanted to come here to thank you on behalf of everyone else for letting us stay here as headquarters. We all appreciate it." Kondou bowed down low showing his gratitude. "Raise your head Kondou-san I am glad to help any of Shiro'sfriends. We all help support each other that's what best friends are for is it not?" Akio asked in a slight happy and jokingly way.

"Ah, Yes. Yes that's what friends are for." Kondou answered sheepishly rubbing the back of his head once more. Then the attention came to me with the Shinsengumi. "There's you and Kosu as siblings are there any more Shiro?" Shinpachi asked. I shrug. "I can't remember if I had more siblings, I was sure I had an older sister as well. But I can't remember if it's true, I can't even remember most of my family. Really I only met Kosu and an uncle that's all." I reply. "I get it now Kosu was the one who told you about your family right Shiro?" Harada questioned. I simply nodded I don't particularly like talking about family matters. "Oh now that I really think about doesn't Shiro's name mean 'samurai male'? If it means a male samurai how come it's Shiro's name? I mean I know that Shiro is a great samurai and we just call her that but why is it Shiro instead of her full name Hashiro?" Shinpachi asked. I glance at Shinpachi and stared down to the floor before looking up "My full name Hashiro was made up by my mother who wanted a unique name but a name within it like Shiro. Merely adding 'Ha' to 'Shiro' made it interesting and different. But I heard that the syllable 'Ha' was added since people have been judging us as horrible beings. I was also told that my mother knew I would have great skill of a samurai even though I was a female so she wanted to compliment on the samurai, the male part of the name was for how I act more…. like a guy than a girl. And in a different language Shiro means 'it's bad'. That word connects more to the family curse than me, leading it to be my name representing the family." I explain. "That's something I never knew about just your name Shiro." Harada said.

Seriously wanting to move from the subject already leaking too much info to the Shinsengumi I throw in a topic to talk about for a short time. "So Kondou, do you Hijikata, and Sannan want to say anything else?" I look questionably at the commander. Please move onto a new topic to talk about! I repeated in my head nearly screaming. "Oh yes. Ahem, Hijikata, Sannan and I on behalf of the Shinsengumi are thanking you for letting us stay in your home. We hope that we will not be a nuisance." Kondou repeated smiling proud thinking about his strong men. 'Dang it I'm reading minds again!' Akio smiled back. "I'm sure none of you grateful warriors will be any problem. My son will be happy to see something different for once; he always complained that the house was 'too dead silent' and that 'the house could be a meditating area of silence.'" After saying this Akio laughed heartily. "I wonder what his expression would be like if he came home today only to see men with swords filling the house." Akio calmed down soon to a sigh. I laugh as well. "That's sounds just like what he would say." I nearly felt like I was dying, it was really easy to picture him saying something like that. "Make yourself feel at home, although please tell your men not to break anything in the house. We don't want it to be a hassle for the few servants working here." Akio welcomed again. 'How could such a wealthy looking man be so kind?' Hijikata's voice echoed. 'Why can't I ever prevent myself from reading minds?!' I yelled at myself in my head.

I stand up "Well I'll go and help prepare dinner with the servants. Call me if you need me." I say before disappearing from the room. The men looked at each other and decided that it was about time to walk out. Akio's wife looked full of joy. Standing up by her husband "Our son is coming home soon. We should go greet him along with the Shinsengumi." She smiled. Akio and his wife including the Shinsengumi captains and commander went along with them to see their son. At the gates they waited for a short moment. "So what's your son's name?" Shinpachi asked, breaking the silence. Akio's wife Hiroko Okura answered politely "His name is Takumi-kun. He's a son that can be mischievous at times." Hiroko smiled wider, "Here he comes."

A young man about Shiro's and Chizuru's age around 17 years old came walking toward the gate wearing a dark blue hakama over a cream white kimono, his hair shoulder length black and blue, and his eyes were dark brown and dark purple. "Heyy-," was all he could say before he noticed the Shinsengumi in their haori with his parents. Right away it snapped into him. "So our house is going to be the Shinsengumi's new headquarters?!" He asked amazed. Then he snapped his fingers closing his eyes for a second "I bet Shiro helped am I right? Speaking of which where is Shiro, I haven't seen her in ages?" He puts the side of his index finger to his forehead using the hand to block off the sunrays as he peered at the group. "Sorry Takumi Shiro's helping with cooking dinner right now. But you'll see her soon." His father answered. Takumi dramatically faked his despair more like he was joking, but he did miss seeing Shiro and playing together. Such as messing with the rogue samurai whenever they cause a ruckus or perhaps steal money from the rogue samurai, fortunately the two children never got caught due to the samurai's drunken behavior. "Aww man I was seriously hoping to see my best friend again after all these years." He drawled. But there was a sudden voice behind everyone. "Hey guys' dinner's ready- wait, is that you Takumi?! Oh my gosh you've changed tremendously. You look so different." Shiro exclaimed. "Hey Shiro nice to see you again for over 6 years. I can say the same to you though; you look more like a samurai wearing those clothes." Takumi said pointing to the hakamas and kimono Shiro's wearing. "Seems like your name really suits you." He teased yet complimented. "Ha ha very funny. C'mon let's talk more in the dining room." Shiro said leading everyone to the dining room where almost everyone was eating to their delights.

Takumi looked around, "Man it's finally good to get some noise around this place." Takumi said looking at his father who looked at the Shinsengumi. "See what did I tell you, he's tired of the 'dead silence' around here." His father said almost laughing again. His son made a look of relaxation while carefully leaning against the door. "Yeah I told you this place needs to be filled up with people, Shiro I really owe you one." Takumi winked at Shiro making her giggle. Everyone soon sat in their places for dinner. Eating the newly cooked rice and the deliciously smelling meat on everyone's tray, the room getting hot from all the food and the excitement the men was making. "So Takumi tell me what did you do these past years? Do you still play pranks on the rogue samurai?" I asked. "Nah, not as much. It's more fun with two people doing it, it completes the set." He said smiling at Shiro. "Hey what do you guys mean by 'pranks'?" Heisuke asked looking curious along with the commander and the rest of the unit captains.

I giggled, "When Takumi and I were young we hated seeing the rogue samurai causing such a fuss every day, then Takumi thought of a plan to annoy the rogues. I wanted to join him in his game; so we followed most of them almost everywhere it was so hilarious when we 'accidently' kicked and punched them hard enough that you'd hear a loud thump on the ground like an earthquake. And while they were falling the two of us would snatch their pouches of money and dangle it in front of their faces. We even tried throwing dango and food on them-" I stopped, both Takumi and I were laughing really hard, close enough to crying. Everyone looked blankly at the two of us but Akio, Hiroko, and some of the servants they just looked at us, sighing. "Oh, Shiro, ha-ha remember whe-when I hit the bull's eye on one of the rogues face?! He looked like he got barfed on!" Takumi asked still laughing with me losing his breath. I continued slowly calming myself down "We pranked the rogues so many countless times we actually became famous around town." I say. "Yeah, and even some of the towns people helped us by giving us more food and information about where the rogue samurais were hanging out lately." Takumi added. "I wonder, over the years did they forget us?" I ask looking straight into Takumi's dark blue-purple eyes. He chuckled "Actually we still have a legacy. The rogue samurais now still look alert at the rooftops and corners and some of the townspeople still ask me when you and I were gonna pull the pranks again." He answered.

"Aww, that's just great how some of them still remember us." I smile at the thought of samurais looking nervous at each turning corner. "But things have cooled down quite a bit." He said looking a little sad. Then the both of us have a smirk on our faces. "Wanna pull the pranks again? They'll never see it coming." Takumi invited. "Of course, it's been forever!" I loudly say. I look at the commander and unit captains. "Hey, do you guys want to come along? It'll be fun." I slurred. Souji, Shinpachi, Heisuke, Kondou, Harada, and Sannan looked willingly at each other. Hijikata, Chizuru, and Saito were the only ones who didn't seem to want to come. "Aw, Come on Chizuru, Saito, Hijikata. I'm serious it's going to be fun. It won't hurt to have fun once in a while. Only showing up with us once won't make you guys that popular as Takumi and me." I stated pointing at Takumi, he's doing the same thing. "Shiro's right Saito, Hijikata. From their laughing earlier it sounded like a lot of fun. Chizuru's coming too you know." Souji teasingly begged.

"Eh?!" Chizuru shouted. "Alright if everyone's coming we're performing the prank tomorrow. So be ready at dawn." I announce. Hijikata looked at Akio and Hiroko, glaring in a way yet confused. "You let your son and Shiro pull these pranks all by themselves?!" he asked a little furious, not wanting the Shinsengumi to be kicked out because of his outburst. Saying this to Akio only made him raise his hands up defeating and teasingly like. "Trust me Hijikata-san, if I could I would stop Takumi and Shiro from pulling those pranks. But you see, when you put yourself in between those two when they're determined it's impossible to stop them. They would just go right past you like a breeze and would have already performed the prank before you know it." He retorted to Hijikata. Leaving him sighing.

Dinner was over, Chizuru and I helped the servants with the dishes. When everyone was going to bed the Shinsengumi commander and captains, and Takumi and I were pretty much the only ones to stay up later. "I didn't think you had that kind of fun in your life Shiro that was the first time we saw you laughing like that with someone." Harada said in a comforting warm voice. I close my eyes, still smiling. "Well, everyone has a fun moment in their life no matter who it is." I say to Harada. A sudden weight fell onto my shoulders. Souji was leaning on my head and shoulders. "Stop it Souji you're heavy." I puff from under him. "Oh Shiro I'm so tired you'll have to drag me to my room." He teased letting more of his weight go onto my back. "Not going to happen. Now get off! And stop teasing me." I say sounding a little muffled trying to push Souji away. Kondou looked at Takumi with wonder in his eyes. "So when did you meet Shiro Takumi, back there when the two of you laughed you guys seemed really close for friends?" Kondou asked. "I met Shiro when I was 9 years old. Shiro was 9 as well. I saw her just wandering around town; I wanted to venture the town on my own at the time and did so. I was the one to ask Shiro to help me with the pranks because I noticed that she was also giving the rogue samurais disgusted looks and we were the same age. If you ask me she really did seem like a trustworthy friend. The more she played with me with the pranks the closer we became. After 5 months father discovered that Shiro was his best friend's daughter Etsu, since she visited my house from time to time. The two of us were almost inseparable back then, we were like brother and sister." Takumi explained smiling kindly. "Ah, is that so." Souji said still leaning on me. "I said for you to get off. Do ya want me to die because you crushed me or somethin'?" I ask clicking my tongue. "Maybe I'll do just that." He teased again. "Oh, hey Takumi help me out here." I call to him. Takumi patted Souji on the shoulder. "Hey I actually wanted to ask you something, come with me." He gestured Souji to follow. And he did, finally my shoulders felt light again. Takumi looked back at me "Shiro you come too. Can the rest of you guys stay there? Thanks." I jog over with them. We headed a little outside the gate then Takumi stopped walking and looked at Souji. "Souji how old are you?" was his question. "I'm 20, why?" Souji asked sounding suspicious. "Shiro have you ever accidently or purposely read his mind yet?" I think back to the time Souji harassed me when I was healing from the headache. "Yes." I flatly answer. "Aha." He said rubbing his chin as if he was a detective. "Souji I may be 3 years younger than you but when you were teasing Shiro back there I could tell that you love her. Right?" Souji didn't exactly look shocked, more like he wanted Takumi to know. "Sure alright you caught me there." He simply answered, walking behind me and hugging me from behind. Sorta reminding me of Kazama. "Ah, Souji are you okay? I haven't really seen you teasing the others lately." I turn to look in his shining green eyes. "I'm fine I just want to hold you, is there a problem?" He looked malicious into my eyes. "Not exactly you're just not acting the way you usually do. I mean you seem to have most of your attention on me. Are you worried about me?" I ask again. Deeply sighing Souji lets go of me "I just have a feeling that you miss me or something, it seems that some of your attention is on me as well am I right?" He smirked at me.

"Stop teasing me Souji." I repeat. "Souji are you trying to protect Shiro by any chance?" Takumi asked. While I just look confused. "Maybe why are you asking me this?" Souji questioned back. "I'm just curious about you, you say that you protect her, yet all you do is tease her. It isn't exactly what a man would do." Souji just looked at me and then to Takumi. "Well, I have my own way. Do you want me to kiss her or something?" Souji teased again. No, no more kissing you've already done that to me Souji how could you think of doing it again? Takumi walked over to Souji and slapped his back "Come on be a man, show the Shinsengumi your affection." He said. That time Souji seemed surprised enough. "Uah, what was that for?" he looked questionable at Takumi. Then Takumi walked my way and hugged me as well smirking at Souji as if he was mocking him. "Not you too Takumi. What's with everyone's doing hugging me?" This time I'm nervous, I've never seen Takumi act this way before. Souji just smirked back at Takumi, he walks my way too and grabs my hand. "Huh?" I stare at Souji then to Takumi. I can clearly tell that he wasn't in love with me like Souji was but I can't bring myself to answer to why he was mocking Souji. I was sure he'd never done anything like this.

"The two of you cut it out." I say almost scolding. I scowl at the both of them. "Oh. C'mon Shiro we were just playing with you." Takumi slurred. I pout, both young men released me. "Well, the next time you guys are 'playing' get someone else. You know it worries me how the two of you are acting strange." I say still making the pouting face. Which I guess the both of them found to be cute, they just smiled at me and rubbed my head laughing. "Everyone must still be waiting for us. Let's go back." Takumi said. And with that the three of us walked back to where everyone was waiting. "Did Souji get in trouble?" Shinpachi teased Souji.

Souji shot back a glare at Shinpachi. "No, nothing happened really." Souji remarked. "Ohhh?" Shinpachi slurred. "Hmph." I then smiled looking at everyone just before we go to sleep. "Okay be sure to get a good night's sleep, if you guys don't show at dawn in 5 minutes we're leaving you guys behind got that? And we'll also have to stop by a dango place who still knows us from the old days." I announce once more before dismissing everybody. Although everyone went their own way to their room, Souji and Shiro remained. Alone in the quiet hallway, empty of anyone else. Shiro gazed at the moon, "Souji, are you okay? It seems that you've been..…well…. I feel like you're jealous of something. You're not.." I pause and look at Souji hearing him chortle. He still looks at the ground. He smiles, closing his eyes, still laughing a little under his breath.

"I can't say for myself of how I exactly feel. It may be jealousy though." Souji interjected half way into my sentence. I keep my gaze at him. I couldn't help but feel as if he was suffering from tuberculosis again. Even though I healed him in the past, a feeling still clung to me. Like it was telling me he was still rotting from the inside. Ever since the time I healed him of the tuberculosis, I felt as if I didn't do anything to help at all, which bothered me, and now looking at his half-hidden face I feel even more worried for him. I walk closer until my shoulder nearly touches his. I try peeking more at his face still hidden in the shadows.

He opened his eyes turning his head to look at me. Some evil flickered in his eyes, yet something else was with it. Was it really jealousy? Or could it have been some loneness? Was it both? I couldn't tell. "What's wrong with you? Are you crying?" Souji asked, in such a questionable kind manner Shiro almost thought she was imagining it. "Whah?" I frankly said. Before I knew it a tear flowed down my cheek. My eyes already felt swollen. "You seem to be the one who's acting strange. I always find you happy or just silent… until now." Souji stopped, he frowned looking at me.

My body felt stiff and weak, until a pair of strong yet gentle arms wrapped itself around me. Souji held my body close to his, I can faintly hear his heartbeat. "It hurts to see you like this. You look like someone broke you. Stop making that face," his hold on my body became slightly tighter. "Just go back to smiling, the face you're wearing is really making me worry for you." He hoarsely said. I hold him as well. Tears started flowing down the more I think about Souji rotting from the inside. Hiding his pain and fear all on his own, not daring to even show a tiny sign of it. This time I held Souji tighter. I could tell he made a face of surprise and pain. "Souji," I whimper. I feel him wince a bit at the sound of my shaking voice. "I'm worried. I feel like you're still...still rotting and disappearing. I don't know why but whenever I think of the time I healed your illness, I felt so afraid. It felt like I couldn't completely save you. And the more I (sniff) think about it the more painful it becomes just to remember it." I sniffed even harder at the end. "Shiro calm down I'm here." Souji cooed. I calm down, feeling so sore all over my body. Truth is, either it's me who's rotting from the inside, or it's the both of us. "Shiro do you want me to share your room with you? Just for tonight?" Souji quietly asked in my ear. I nod.

"Thank you Souji." I whisper. Feeling my body being hoisted up. I smile "Thank
you." I say once again before falling into sleep. (Souji's view of things) 'Why? Shiro why did you look so scared and broken? I've never seen you that down before. What happened to you?' I walk to Shiro's room. Carefully sliding the door open with my right foot. I see her futon, carefully I place her on top of it. I walk back to close the door. Before I get another futon for the night I sit next to Shiro. I gently caressed her cheeks. "Shiro, what made you think that you didn't help me?" Souji whispered into the silent room. Standing up and setting the extra futon right beside her. 'What is this feeling to protect her?' Souji would sometimes ask himself. Even if he knew the answer he had another feeling to make Shiro his own.

"I don't know why, but when I saw you with Takumi having fun. I did feel jealous." Souji answered Shiro in a low voice even though she was sleeping. 'I feel more guilt for some reason. I still feel as if I can't protect you Shiro.' Souji thought to himself. "Well, I really hope what you said about tomorrow is true." Souji whispered one last time before falling asleep beside Shiro.