Freedom
Chapter 13
Renewed Fear
By DarkKishi

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Yay! 100 reviews! Let's get a lot more! PLEASE read the author notes at the bottom! I have some requests for ya'll!

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Hitori de wa, tooi ashita wo
Yoake no mama de, koesou de

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Sir we found where she lives! One man yelled as he ran into Susumu's room.

And where is that? He asked pointedly.

She lives with a Himura Kenshin. We got his number and everything. The man told him as he handed a piece of paper to him.

Very well. How did you find the information? Susumu asked.
His records at the police station. He told him.

Susumu looked at the paper and smiled. Looks like Kamiya is coming home. He said as he picked up the phone.

~*~*~*~*~

Kaoru slowly opened her eyes. It was noon now and she was alone. Kenshin had woken up when Mr. Toyogawa called him. He left Kaoru so he could get more boxes and check out the apartment. Kenshin was upset about leaving her home alone, but she insisted on staying behind to sleep.

Kaoru's stomach growled and she decided to get something to snack on. Kenshin said he'd be back to eat lunch.

As she entered the kitchen, the phone rung. She let it ring, but finally decided to answer it.

How have you been, Kamiya? The voice said.

Kaoru stuttered.

It sure has been lonely here with out you. Susumu paused, but couldn't hear anything. It's not nice to run away.

Kaoru just stood there. Tears began to line her eyes. Oh no. She thought.

Now I'm just gonna go now. Hope to see you soon. Susumu let out a laugh and hung up the phone.

Kaoru barely heard the line go dead as she slowly slid to the floor. She was beginning to slip into her trance, away from her troubles.

~*~*~*~*~

Hey We're back! Sano announced as he opened the door. Kenshin? Missy? He asked when no one answered him.

Sano look over there. Yahiko said, pointing towards the wall where the phone was.

Sano quickly ran forward and found Kaoru slumped against the wall and the receiver hanging off of its hook and swinging back and forth. He asked.

Yahiko leaned down next to Sano. What's happened to her? He asked. And where's Kenshin?

I don't know. Just then, as Sano finished answering, the door opened.

Miss Kaoru? Kenshin said in an unsure voice. Something just wasn't feeling right to him.

Yahiko ran forward. Something's wrong with Kaoru. He said as he pointed over to where Kaoru was.

Kenshin took no time to run over to her, leaving the boxes he had at the door. Sano, what happened? Kenshin kneeled down in front of Kaoru as Sano scooted over.

I don't know. She was like this when we came in. Sano defended.

Kenshin watched to make sure that she was breathing. He then looked in her eyes and saw that they were dull.

No shine or twinkle shown in her usual bright blue eyes. Her mouth hung open just the smallest of amount. Her head was tipped to one side with her hair falling over her shoulder.

Miss Kaoru. Kenshin said somewhat forcefully as he held one of her hands. He used his other one to brush the hair from her face. Please snap out of it Miss Kaoru.

Sano gave him an odd look, but decided to ask later.

Kaoru heard Kenshin's voice, but it was faint. She strained to hear it and it slowly got louder. Kaoru felt Kenshin's finger tips brush her cheek and her eyes snapped wide.

Kenshin watched as her eyes got wider and the vibrancy of them came back. He gave her a soft smile. You worried us, Miss Kaoru.

Yea. Now what happened? Sano asked her, tearing her attention from Kenshin.

Kaoru tired to remember how she ended up here when the memory hit her hard. Tears began to fill her eyes as her fear came back. He found me! He called and I answered! He knows where I live!

Who Miss Kaoru. Kenshin asked her.

Kaoru squeezed his hand. She then took her hands from Kenshin and twisted them together. It was horrible. His voice was taunting. He's trying to scare me. I know he is and he's doing a damn good job of it too! Kaoru jumped to her feet. It's happening. It's like he has a leash on me. If I tug to hard, then I choke. Kaoru had her head in her hands as she ranted.

Yahiko walked up to Kaoru and yanked her hands away. Shut up Ugly!

Kaoru stared at him, her eyes wide. What did you say?

Listen, if you'll just calm down then Kenshin can think of a plan. Yahiko told her and then sat down on the couch.

Kenshin walked up to Kaoru and led her to the chair. He walked back to the kitchen and poured water into a glass and handed it to Sanosuke. Can you give this to Miss Kaoru and try to calm her down while I call Mr. Toyogawa.

Yea, sure. Sano said as he grabbed the glass. He walked over to Kaoru and sat down on the table in front of her. Here Missy.

Kaoru watched as Kenshin walked over to the phone and dialed a number. She tried to listen, but Sano distracted her. He took her hand and jammed the glass in her hands. She looked down at the glass and slowly brought it to her lips. Thank you. She said as she pulled it away and rested it on her lap.

Don't mention it. Sano leaned forward. What happened to you?

Kaoru looked up at him her eyes wide till she figured out what he was speaking of. Oh. It's nothing Sano. Kaoru told him blankly. He didn't bother to question further because she gave him a sign that it would not be welcomed.

Kenshin hung up the phone and walked over to the couch. He sat down and rubbed his hands over his face. When Kenshin finally looked around the room he found that everyone was staring at him. He smiled and rubbed the back of his head.

What'd he say? Kaoru practically yelled.

Oh. He said that if he has my number then he can find the apartment. So I suggested that we leave here. Kenshin told them.

Sano Asked.

Well he said for us to go to the new apartment. We can stop by the store and buy sleeping bags if we hurry. Kenshin got up and walked into the bedroom followed by everyone else. They all stared at him as he brought out a couple of suitcases and laid them on the bed. He put his clothes in one and looked at Kaoru. Would you mind if I pack your clothes Miss Kaoru?

N-no not at all. Kaoru stuttered.

Kenshin then handed his suit case to Sano. Will you put this in my car? The keys are with the boxes in the front. Sano nodded and Kenshin turned to Yahiko. Where are the things you bought today?

Um, in the living room I think. Yahiko told him.

That is fine. Could you take whatever it is you bought today and take them to my car also. It's in space 13d, but you should see Sanosuke if you hurry.

Yahiko nodded and ran off.

Kenshin then turned to Kaoru and smiled. Would you mind pulling out all blankets form the closet. The heat is not on yet so it will be cold.

S-Sure Kenshin. Kaoru walked over to the closet, but stopped. She turned back around and stared at Kenshin's back.

Yes Miss Kaoru? Kenshin said as he turned around. What is it?

Why are you so calm? Kaoru asked.

Calm? I'm not calm. Kenshin told her.

Your not? Sure do look and sound it to me. She said.

Kenshin smiled and returned to his task. I seem calm because I have a mission to complete and that masks my fear for your safety, Miss Kaoru.

Oh. Well, I'm scared. Kaoru walked closer to him and laid her hand on his shoulder while clutching the other to her chest.

Kenshin turned around once again and stared into her eyes. His violet eyes were soft and understanding. I know. Would you like to talk about it now or later?

Later. I want to talk to you about it alone. Kaoru told him while dropping her gaze to her hands.

That is fine. Yahiko will have to go to sleep early tonight for school so we can talk then. He told her. He smiled when she looked up at him. Now let's hurry so we can get out of here.

Okay Kenshin. Kaoru said as she went back to the closet and pulled out some blankets.

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Susumu walked down the hall until he found the right door. He knocked, but got no response. So Kamiya got the point. He said.

What do you mean? Maybe they just went out or something. A man who stood at his side said.

Susumu looked at him and then returned his gaze to the door. No. Kamiya left. She's smart and she knows my games. She is smart enough to know that I gave her a head start and it would be stupid not to take it. Susumu said. Now get open that door so we can leave them a little calling card.

The man turned around and nodded towards the others.

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Kenshin opened the door and allowed Yahiko and Kaoru to walk in. Yahiko walked into the apartment and sat down on the rolled up sleeping back. Now what. He asked.

Kenshin walked over to him and unrolled one of the sleeping bags. We go to bed. Kenshin looked up at him and smiled. You have school tomorrow and it won't do well to start with a tired mind. He pulled away from the sleeping bag and looked at Kaoru. Then he got up and picked up her suitcase. You can change in the bathroom. Will you please bring the candle with you. Kenshin asked before he headed off down the much longer hall and into a bedroom.

Kenshin? Where are you? Kaoru asked as she stumbled down the hall. She finally reached the end and felt the wall for the door. slowly she walked in and bumped into something.

Kenshin set the the suitcase on the ground and held Kaoru by the shoulders. Miss Kaoru, may I have the candle.

Yes I have it in my hands. Kaoru held her hands up, but the room was so dark that he couldn't see it. Kaoru felt his hands slid over her arms and clasp her hands before taking the candle from her. She heard him doing something and then jumped and covered her eyes when something flicked at her.

Miss Kaoru it's only a lighter. Kenshin told her with a chuckle.

Kaoru slowly opened her eyes and saw Kenshin holding the lit candle in one hand and the lighter in the other. I knew that. She said defensively and just shrugged past him when he began to laugh.

Miss Kaoru take the candle with you. I'm going to make sure Yahiko is okay. Kenshin told Kaoru after he put the suitcase in the bathroom.

Don't you need the candle? She asked.

He smiled at her and then ran off.

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Kaoru walked down the hall and into the large, blank living room holding the candle. There she saw three sleeping bags lying on the floor. Two of them were occupied. Kaoru smiled a little as she looked at the two sleeping males. Yahiko laid clumsily across the floor while Kenshin laid on his back. With out warning Yahiko swung his arm out hitting Kenshin square in the face. Kaoru placed a hand over her mouth trying to keep her giggles silent as Kenshin sat up rubbing his nose.

Wow. For someone his age, he's got quite an arm on him. Kenshin said with a smile.

Kaoru sat down and slipped inside her sleeping bag. I'm sorry for laughing. Are you okay?

I'm fine, but I think it's going to be sore for awhile. Kenshin flipped over on his side and faced Kaoru. So, do you want to talk now?

Kaoru turned to lay on her stomach and laid her head on her folded arms. He's playing with my mind. I mean Susumu is.

What do you mean. Kenshin asked.

Every moment of my life was an opportunity for him to make me go mad, or break me. Everything he did was a scheme. Kaoru whispered.

Kenshin looked at her profile and saw that there was a slight smirk on her face. It was like she was reciting someone else's life. "Like what, Miss Kaoru?

Kaoru tilted her head a little towards him.

I don't understand. Kenshin was truthful in this.

Oh, That's what he called me. I once asked him why he called me only by my last name. He said, It is my way of reminding you of your place. I didn't understand so some time later I asked him what that meant and he said, You shouldn't ask such stupid questions of me! I didn't ever ask again, but I now know what he meant. Kaoru said.

Kenshin reached out and grasped her hand. They'll be gone soon and you won't have to think about them ever again.

Kaoru smiled at him and let out a yawn, muffling it in her pillow. She then returned her gaze. Thank you.

Kenshin watched in awe as she lowered her head while at the same time bringing his hand up. Kenshin's eyes widened when he felt her lips on his hand for a brief moment.

Good night. Kaoru said before she dropped her head back to her pillow and closed her eyes, but still holding Kenshin's hand.

Kenshin just laid there holding her hand in shock. He turned his head to look at her and smiled before his forehead creased in thought. Would she hate me if I attempted to kiss her? Well, of coarse it would have to wait until she was awake, but would she hate him. Kenshin then turned to look at the ceiling. Why am I thinking of that? That kiss could be just a thank you kiss, right? Kenshin let out sigh as he looked back to his and Kaoru's hands that were still locked together, before closing his eyes for sleep. But I hope it meant more. He thought.

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Yahiko, Miss Kaoru, please wake up. Kenshin said as he walked back in the living room from the bathroom.

It's so early. Yahiko groaned as he rubbed his eyes.

Duh. You have to go to school remember? Kaoru said as she got to her feet.

Don't remind me. Yahiko groaned again.

Oh, it will be fun. Now why don't you change in that room and please hurry, so we can stop to eat. Kenshin said pointing to the first door in the hallway.

Yahiko nodded and then headed off. Kaoru smiled at Kenshin before walking off. I'll go change also.

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The car pulled to a halt in front of the large building. Yahiko sat in the back seat with his books and a box of food for lunch.

Kaoru asked as she turned around in her seat.

Yahiko snapped defensively. B-but what should I tell them?

Kenshin looked up at the review mirror and stared at Yahiko. What ever you feel comfortable with telling. You know about my past, right? Yahiko nodded and Kenshin continued. Well when asked, I won't lie, but I'd always rather not say anything. Everything is up to you, though Yahiko.

Yahiko nodded before opening the door and running towards the building. Kenshin and Kaoru watched before pulling back into the line of traffic.

Do you want to go with me to help the movers with the apartment, or stay at the new place. I can even have Sano stay with you. Kenshin asked.

I'll go with you, if it's okay. Kaoru said.

Kenshin only nodded before turning a corner towards the apartment.

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Kenshin walked in protectively in front of Kaoru just incase Susumu was waiting on her. He walked up to the door and found the doorknob hanging only by a screw. They've been here Miss Kaoru. Kenshin told her as he began to push both their backs towards the wall next to the door. Kenshin pushed the door open with his fingers before warily peeking around the frame. At the sight of the interior Kenshin turned his whole body to face the door.

Kaoru's infamous curiosity got the best of her, once again. What is it, Kenshin? She then stood on her tip toes and peeked over his shoulder, almost in a comical way, but the sight before her was of no laughter. Oh my.

As if Kaoru's words were his cue, Sano entered the living room from the bedroom. Kenshin had stopped and called him on the way over, just for added support. Looks pretty bad doesn't it.

Kenshin slowly walked inside followed closely by Kaoru. The three looked around surveying everything. The coffee table looked as if it had been thrown into a wall creating a hole for one to see into the bedroom. The kitchen cabinets were thrown open and food and glass was everywhere. The couch showed the appearance of knives being ripped through its material. Finally, the wall where they ate and where the phone was had red spray paint on it. The writing spelled out, Kamiya', in large bold letters.

Kenshin turned to Kaoru and saw the look dancing on her face. He's trying to get to you Miss Kaoru, we both know that.

Kaoru nodded slowly and tried to relax, but still held her arms around herself securely. I know.

Well the bedroom and bathroom aren't much better. Sano told the two.

Is anything worth keeping? Kenshin finally asked.

Sano shook his head with a sullen look. Not a one.

Kenshin put his hand on Kaoru's shoulder and forced a bright smile on his face for Kaoru's sake. Well then there is no reason to be here any longer. Why don't we leave and go shopping for some new furniture?

Kaoru smiled back at him and allowed him to lead her back out the door, but a piece of paper on the wall next to the door caught her attention. Kenshin, it's a note. She said as she pointed to it.

Kenshin let go of Kaoru and laid his hand on the knife that held it to the wall. With one hard jerk Kenshin freed it form the wall. Pulling the note from the knife he began to hand it to Kaoru, but soon caught her look. He looked at it for a little while before attempting to tell her what it said. Well it pretty much says...

Kenshin, word for word please. She told him.

Yes Miss Kaoru. Kenshin said and began to read it again.

Kamiya,
I started to write this and then remembered that you can't read. Hope you can find someone to read it for you. I have to admit, though, I am proud that you have finally gotten to the point of understanding what I do or say. I thought at first you wouldn't take my phone call as my way of being polite and giving you a heads up on the fact that we are on to you. Sadly for you, Kamiya, we both know that sooner or later, you will be back with me. It's like that saying, your can run, but you can't hide', only sooner or later you're gonna get tired and be happy when you come home. Well, in the end I wish you luck, because this game is great practice for my men!
~Susumu.

With a loud audible growl, Kenshin crumpled the paper up and threw it to the side. Let's leave!

Neither Sano nor Kaoru dared argue, but shared sympathizing looks before following the irritated red head.

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Translation~

Heart of a Sword-Rurouni Kenshin

Hitori de wa, tooi ashita wo
Yoake no mama de, koesou de

When I'm alone, tomorrow feels far away.
And I must go over still into the darkness of dawn.

A.N. ~
Okay here is chapter 13! Do you like it? I have another request other then reviewing! I would love it if people would draw me some pics for this story! Or any of the other ones I've written, but mostly this one! I will post it on my new web site called A Life In The Shadows! I think it looks nice, but it needs some Art! To check it out you can either go to my profile or go to
Also, if you do look at it then I would love you to sign the guest book!

Another thing that I've been asked...Do you think this story should be rated R? I rated it R because the abuse Kaoru goes through is rough and just to let you know that before the story ends there is going to be at least one real strong scene of abuse, not detailed, but it could be disturbing. I don't know though. I could pull it down to a Pg-13 and with that one scene I could either put a large warning up or post it somewhere else. Why don't ya'll vote on it and tell me in your reviews, or e-mails.

For the Reviewers~

Kenshin-gotenks~ I'm so happy you think I'm fast! I was so scared that I got every one upset because I was a little bit late with my last update! ^_^

Kawaii Kokkei Tsuita no Neko~ I'm so glad that you take enough time to review for me even if you're busy! It's so kind of you.

Hime Tsuria Shi~ Thank you SO MUCH! Heeheehee

Crystal Renee~ Ooh I keep forgetting about the alter ego thingy. Thank you so much for the complements! I would love it if you would love it if you would advertise my story that'd be great! If there is something that I can do in return then tell me! And don't you just love the word Fricken! It's one of the only words I can say with out my mom spazing! She's so funny! I love her so much. She got mad at me because I said thart and she thought I said fart! She finally got off of yelling at me for crap! ^_^

BabyKaoru-Sama~ I get tired of reading too, but I keep at it because I get hooked! Thanks for reviewing!

mitenshi~ I'm so sorry to disappoint a lot of people her, but there will be no lemon. Before people begin to cry let me tell ya'll why! Okay one reason is because it just wouldn't be right for me to write one because I'm um... well let's just say that I'm sure it wouldn't work out! Also another reason why is because I don't think it would work out in this story. Kaoru has gone through a lot of a abuse, some being sexual and kenshin would want her to be as comfortable as possible so he would want to take that part of the relationship as slow as possible. he wouldn't want her to feel pressured. That's my reasons and I hope your friend thinks there good reasons! Also I'm so glad you like my sorry so much!

Inuyasha~ Don't worry, like I said if there was a kiss in this story then its not far away, But my mouth is sealed!

inuyasha0024~ I won't get upset with you. Personally I'm just confused on what it should be rated as so I'm glad you put your vote out! Thank you!

BillabongBob~ Hmm, how should I respond? Heeheee.

aglaia102~ Your Welcome! Thanks for reviewing again!

Angle1~ Yep they are moving into a bigger apartment! It's still in the country and Sano is still close by. Yeah how would it be funny if Yahiko was nice? I thought the boxes falling on kenshin was cute and would be some good comic relief, it also gave kaoru a chance to show how much she could worry over him for a change. So far it's been Kaoru falling or something like that. Kaoru was always in trouble, but Kenshin isn't out of commission he was just locked up for while Kaoru was gone. He doesn't go on missions though because none have come up yet.

Wolf^_^X~ Thank you so much for reviewing! I'm happy that you're enjoying it!

Tenika Dargon~ Thank you for your words of encouragement. I do reread it before I post it so you don't even want to know what it looks like before! Hahah! Any ways, I like constructive criticism, so thank you.

In My Head~

Ahhh! Run, hide, It's awful! Usually I'm prepared because it happens around the first of the year, but not this year! Nope the LOVE BUG has come early! Ahhhhhh! It's taking everyone! Any ways, hat and the fact that soccer ends on tuesday and I'm Wardrobe Mistress for my school play, then nothing new is really going on! Oh wait, My heater is out and it's so sold that I live under my blankets with pants socks long sleeves, and a hooded sweatshirt that o keep my head covered with the hood on. It's not even the middle of winter yet! Ouch!

Dark Kishi,
PLEASE REVIEW! I LOVE THEM ALL!!!!
There are no bad reviews, only unwritten ones!

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