Love and Vengeance

by blue-eyed-shuichi

[Movie Universe] The battle with Shishio has ended. Kenshin seeks to move forward in the era of peace with Kaoru at his side. But the past refuses to die. Old grudges and wrongs come back to haunt the rurouni and Kenshin will soon find himself dragged into a hell that he may not be able to escape from.

21. Jinchuu

Another update to this story of mine. Do review if you liked the chapter! It always helps to motivate me!

Word list:

nihontou- Japanese blade

ougi- Final or ultimate attack

Shugeki Toisei- A Watojutsu attack in which the user kicks the back edge of the blade to increase the speed and strength of the blade when swung outward.

Tantou Housen- Way of the short sword. A book written by Ming General Tei Sou Yuu from which Watojutsu was created.

Watojutsu- A kenjustu that combines the speed and power of the Japanese Katana and the power and grace of Chinese Martial Arts.

Chapter 21-Jinchuu

Front Courtyard Kamiya Dojo

"Saito?" Kenshin murmured. "What are you doing here?"

"Chasing down your brother-in-law," The policeman answered, enjoying the shocked look of the smaller man as he yanked the blade from Yatsume, the ninja falling to the side and onto the ground. "He's been active in the black market of illegal weapons manufacturing and his connections with Shanghai make him a very real threat to Japan," He paused, stepping over the prone form of the shinobi then stalked forward, the Kenshin-gumi following, and the officer tilted his head back, focusing his gaze upon the figure standing on the rooftop. "One I mean to stop here and now."

Enishi looked down at the policeman with narrowed eyes. "Hajime Saito, former captain of the third squad of the Shinsengumi. It's been a long time since we last met."

Saito flashed a confused look. "Met? I've never met you before."

"Oh, but you did... that night in Kyoto when you and Battosai fought for the first time..." Enishi replied. "You told me to go home... that the streets weren't safe for a kid like me to be wandering alone at night..."

A memory struck in the policeman's mind and he smirked. "So you were that kid, huh? Out trying to take your revenge on Himura..." He shook his head. "Foolish boy...You're still nothing more than a spoiled child throwing a temper tantrum over some perceived wrong."

The muscles in Enishi's face twitched at the biting lecture and the dismissal of his pain. "Perceived?!" He roared. "Battosai cut my sister down like cattle! You have no understanding of what it's like to lose your entire family! Battosai destroyed my life! And now I will destroy his!"

Saito smirked at the man's outburst, knowing he'd struck a nerve, his katana pointed down and to the side as he replied in a challenging tone. "Then by all means come down here and fight. We'll settle this grudge of yours once and for all. "

Enishi grit his teeth, knowing the police officer was trying to goad him into action and he drew in a breath, letting it out slowly as he regained control over his emotions. "I will... but you have your own problem to deal with, Saito-san."

"Really? Do tell."

"Me!" Yatsume snarled from behind the policeman, slashing out with his gauntlets, the tips cutting through Saito's uniform.

Saito grunted and whirled around, slicing out with his katana but the shinobi jumped back, landing in a crouch a short distance away. "This one is mine... don't interfere." The wolf of Mibu growled at Kenshin, moving away from the center of the courtyard and towards the rising form of the Yatsume.

Kenshin nodded, gently taking hold of Kaoru's hand, backing up onto the engawa, the rest of the group following the rurouni's lead and the redhead kept a fixed gaze on the police officer and the ninja as the two men circled each other.

Saito sized up the faceless attacker, looking for a weakness as he spoke, "You survived being stabbed... rather impressive... let me guess... some kind of shinobi trick?"

"No trick..." The ninja answered, his gauntlets clicking as he flexed his hands. "It is the gift of the Yatsume clan... to adapt to pain... to tolerate and overcome the tearing of flesh and the breaking of bone... in doing so... I can kill without being held back by the weakness of the body."

"I see... so you overcome pain and injury to kill without thought to your own safety do you?" Saito murmured, regarding the man before him with disdain. "A worthy ability... for a monster..."

Anger flared in the ninja's heart, his voice growing hateful at the insult. "You think I'm a monster? The real monster here... is Battosai..." Yatsume paused, making a motion with his head towards the deck where Kenshin stood. "Him and those he killed for. My clan was ruined and my compatriots wiped out by that man over there," The shinobi turned his attention back to Saito. "And I will have my revenge, no matter what you say or do."

"So you're stuck in the past like your boss, too, eh?" Saito replied in a cool tone. "You really are a moron. It's no wonder Himura beat you so easily."

Yatsume clenched his jaw. "He didn't beat me... I'm still here... and I will kill you to get to him if I have to."

"Hmph..." Saito sounded out. "A moron and stubborn to boot. You should have learned your lesson earlier and bowed out."

"I will not stop until Battosai is dead."

"And that is why you will lose," The officer replied, a scolding tone in his words as he continued, "An animal continues on by instinct alone... a man understands when he's beat and gives up... and a monster that doesn't know his own limitations... that continues to blame others for his own failures... is sick of mind... and must be put down like a diseased dog..." The police officer raised his sword in front of him and pointed it directly at the shinobi. "So come on then, monster... let's end this pathetic display of misplaced vengeance... I've got other business to attend to."

The insult to his person, his feelings, and his desire for revenge sparked the rage festering in the shinobi and he brought his gauntlets up, snarling as he jumped forward and slashed out with his left hand.

Saito parried the attack and back pedaled, smirking as Yatsume continued to swipe out at him in anger. It made the ninja off balance and vulnerable to making mistakes. That's it... get angry... It'll make finishing you easier. He found an opening and took it, stabbing straight forward, his katana sinking into the right side of the shinobi's chest.

The pain flared in Mumyoi's body and he hissed, gnashing his teeth and his right hand snaked up, clasping around Saito's left one, holding the sword in place and preventing his escape.

The officer's smug look morphed instantly into shock as he was yanked forward, the blade sinking deeper into the ninja's chest, now within range of Yatsume's gauntlets.

The shinobi wasted no time, stabbing out in retaliation with his free hand, the razor sharp tips of his gauntlet piercing through the thin fabric of Saito's uniform jacket and embedded themselves deep into the policeman's right shoulder.

Saito gasped as Yatsume retracted his hand, blood spurting from the puncture wounds but recovered, jerking his head back as the ninja swiped upwards in an attempt to slice through his neck. The smaller man ducked and retaliated, lifting his leg to kick outward, the sole of his shoe smashing into the exposed knee of Yatsume.

The shinobi growled at the strike, feeling the explosion of pain, his leg nearly buckling from the impact and he let go of the katana hilt the same time as Saito did, the sword still embedded in his shoulder as he jumped back and away before the officer could connect a more solid hit to his now injured knee.

Deprived of his weapon, Saito remained still, panting a bit as the pain radiated throughout his shoulder and down his arm. He kept his focus solely on Yatsume, watching as the larger man slowly withdrew the blade and tossed it aside then taunted him.

"Without your sword you can't beat me, policeman. You are too weak..."

Saito merely smirked, putting on a show of bravado as he silently calculated his next move. "I don't need a sword to take care of a monster like you."

"You're an arrogant bastard, aren't you?" Yatsume growled then charged forward. "You shouldn't take me so lightly!"

The officer braced for the charge, dodging the violent swipe of the ninja's gauntlets as he dropped and rolled forward, hand outstretched as he grabbed for the hilt of his katana and whirled around, thrusting out and up, the tip of the blade stopped by the clawed tips of Yatsume's metal glove and the ninja doubled down, clasping his own hand as both set of gauntlets held Saito's sword at bay.

Rain continued to fall in the courtyard, the only sound as the combatants stared at one another until the ninja broke the silence first.

"What will you do now, policeman? You can't harm me with your sword trapped... my gauntlets have no weakness that you can pierce."

Saito's lips spread into a cocky smirk. "Can't I?" With sudden violence, he sprang up, the power of his legs lending strength to his attack as the samurai thrust forward, the tip of the katana piercing through the metal and slicing through flesh and bone of both hands before bursting out the opposite side.

Yatsume screamed in pain and anger as his tendons and muscles were severed, the sensation sparking the memory of his battle with Battosai long ago. Not again! Not like this! With a roar, the shinobi leapt back, yanking his hands with him as they slid free of the blood stained blade. He turned and jumped onto the rooftop of the side wall, cradling his damaged hands as he whirled around and roared above the thunderous boom that erupted in the darkened sky. "This isn't over yet! I will not be denied my vengeance! I will kill Battosai! I swear it!"

Saito flicked his blade, blood splattering off and onto the soaked ground, watching as the defeated shinobi vanished over the wall and out of sight. "Hmph... fled like a coward... typical monster..." Turning back to the main building, the wolf of Mibu stalked forward, his focus now upon Enishi as he spoke. "Your men have been defeated... there is no one left now but you... so come down and let's end this."

Enishi glared at the officer. The arrival of Saito was an unwelcome surprise. Still, it mattered not. His plan was nearly complete, his trump card was still active and he knew it was time for the final stage to begin. The white haired man would have his revenge... and nothing will stop me from delivering Jinchuu. Tightening the grip on his elongated brown bag, Enishi jumped down off the rain slick roof, landing in a graceful crouch and rose, straightening his frame as he stared at the lanky wolf of Mibu.

Kenshin saw his ex brother-in-law jump and knew the time had come for him to face Enishi. He felt Kaoru's hand hold tightly to his, knowing she was worried over him and he turned, soft eyes meeting the troubled ones of his beloved and he whispered. "I have to go, Kaoru, but I promise I will end this and return to you."

Kaoru was indeed worried over the rurouni though she knew this moment would come. And I don't want to distract him from what must be done. With a brave heart, the girl spoke in as confident a tone as she could muster. "I believe you, Kenshin. I believe in you. I know you can beat him. Just please, be careful and come back to me."

He favored her with a warm smile as he stroked the top of her hand with his thumb. "I will always come back to you, koibito. You are my heart... and my future... I won't let that future die here today..." He paused, voice becoming softer still. "So please stick close to Sano and the others... I don't want you hurt again," With reluctance he let go of the girl's hand then shifted his focus to the rest of his friends. "Everyone please stay back. I don't want anyone getting caught up in this fight."

Sano nodded. "Kick his ass, Kenshin. I know you can do it."

"I'll make sure to take care of your injuries when the battle's over." Megumi chimed in.

Kenshin gave a nod of his own, shifting his gaze to Yahiko who spoke.

"You better not lose, Kenshin. Kaoru will be heartbroken and I'll have to beat you up for that."

The rurouni smiled, knowing how protective Yahiko was of his sensei. "I won't lose, Yahiko, I promise," He reached out to clasp the boy's shoulder, voice and features paternal as he whispered, "You stick close to Kaoru and keep her safe for me, okay?"

Yahiko felt pride at the task the rurouni gave him and nodded, an expression of resolve upon his youthful face. He's entrusting me to keep Kaoru safe. I won't let him down. "You got it."

The redhead drew back and pivoted away, features shifting into a determined look as he stepped down and onto the courtyard, coming to a stop at his old rival's right. "Saito?"

The policeman turned his head at the sound of Kenshin's voice. "What is it?"

"This fight is between Enishi and myself. Please do not interfere."

There was a hardened edge in the smaller man's tone that both amused and impressed Saito and he snorted. "Who said I wanted to interfere? I came here to make sure Yukishiro doesn't get away. That's it," He moved around the redhead, heading towards the engawa but stopped, tossing over his shoulder, "Just make sure you beat him."

Kenshin gave a slight smile at this. Typical Saito. His smile fell at Enishi spoke.

"So Battosai, are you ready to receive your just punishment for the murder of my sister?"

"I will find my own answer to atone for the death of Tomoe and for my sins as a hitokiri," Kenshin replied. "And I will fight you, Enishi, with all my strength, so that you too, will come to understand why this desire for revenge is folly."

"Revenge is folly... an interesting choice of words, Battosai," Enishi murmured, eyes narrowing in contempt. "And I already have an answer for you... It is the cruelest form of revenge I can unleash upon you..."

Kenshin's brow furrowed. The cruelest form of revenge? He saw Enishi reach up and the redhead reflexively took a defensive stance, hand clenching the saya of his sakabato tightly, waiting for the larger man to make the first move.

Enishi smirked at the samurai's reaction, gripping the left shoulder of his cloak and he yanked, pulling the blue fabric off, revealing a sleeveless blue top and orange pants. He clutched the brown bag with his left hand and peered coldly down at the rurouni. "A bit jumpy are we? Perhaps I should have a warm up before I proceed with Jinchuu..." He untied the bag, his hand grabbing a rather long sheathed weapon and he clasped the hilt, drawing the sword out, twin tassels shaking in the wind as he held it up for inspection.

"What the heck kind of sword is that?" Sano asked, watching from the safety of the engawa. "The hilt looks Chinese... but that blade..."

"There's no mistaking it, that blade is a nihontou..." Kaoru finished for the brawler as she studied the weapon in Enishi's hand.

Saito lit up a cigarette, impressed at the girl's observation. "She's right... it is a tachi... a Japanese long blade in style up until the Sengoku period. Enishi is larger then Kenshin, his reach will be longer... and with that blade... Himura's going to have a hard time getting close enough to do damage."

In her heart, Kaoru knew her beloved was at a distinct disadvantage in terms of power and reach. Kenshin would have to use his speed to overcome Enishi. I know you can beat him, Kenshin. But please... be careful.

Kenshin studied the long blade, watching as Enishi twirled the sword in an elaborate series of arcs before the larger man took a sideways stance, the dull side of the weapon resting along his shoulders and neck, the tip pointed directly at the rurouni.

Enishi lifted his left hand up and back, palm exposed and curled his last two fingers, leaving the index and middle finger pointing upright as he tucked in his thumb. "Are you ready to begin, Battosai?"

The samurai recognized Enishi's graceful stance as one of the many forms of concentrating strength that prevailed in Chinese Martial Arts. But did he have mastery of it? Or was it merely for show and intimidation? "I'm ready to fight you... but you might want to take off those glasses... you could get hurt."

Enishi sneered at his warning. "Hurt? You won't be able to even lay a scratch on me, Battosai... but you're welcome to try." He darted forward without warning, slashing out in a series of rapid strikes, the clang of metal ringing in the water logged air as Kenshin's blade met Enishi's in the center of the courtyard.

The redhead grit his teeth at the force of the attack but parried, keeping the larger man at bay as he countered with a wide arcing slash aimed for Enishi's midsection.

The white haired man blocked the attack then jumped back, the rurouni doing the same thing as they stood a short distance from each other. Enishi pointed his sword straight down, using both hands in precise finger gestures as he spoke. "That was rather pathetic, Battosai... you hardly used any power in your attacks. Were you trying to test me or something?"

Kenshin said nothing, keeping his blade straight in front of him.

"Not very talkative, hmm? I find myself wanting to tell you many things, Battosai... but first... A little demonstration of my Watojutsu... just for you!" Enishi darted forward suddenly, swinging outward and up with his tachi, aiming for the smaller man's head.

Kenshin flicked his sword down to block it, eyes widening as Enishi's right leg snapped up the second the blades touched, the sole of the larger man's shoe smashing into the mune side of the tachi, the force knocking the rurouni off his feet. Air exploded from his lungs as the redhead was hurtled into the side wall, the solid material cracking from the stress of the impact.

Kaoru stared in horrified shock at the violence of the white haired man's attack, her ears picking up the term of Enishi's styled attack. "Wato... justu? I've never heard of such a ryu before..."

"Hmph... so he's learned a technique that combines speed and power... this Yukishiro is an excellent fighter." Saito murmured.

"Yeah, but Kenshin's no slouch, either... he'll figure out a way to beat this guy, you watch." Sano commented, flexing his hand as his brown eyes focused on his best friend. Come on, Kenshin, get up and show this guy what you can do!

Enishi lowered his leg back down to his side as he studied the smaller man with a smug look, enjoying the pain floating in the rurouni's eyes. "Hurts doesn't it? The Shugeki Toisei is designed to use maximum force in the blow. I'm quite surprised you're able to stand after that Watojutsu attack."

Kenshin winced as he struggled to breathe, the wounds on his back from his previous fight throbbing in time with his roaring heartbeat but the pain was bearable and the redhead pushed off the wall. "Watojustu... you call it?"

"Yes... a style perfected by the Chinese after their run in with Japanese pirates during the 13-16th centuries," Enishi explained, still in a talkative mood. "One of the Ming army generals, a former fighting monk called Tei Sou Yuu, studied the nihontou and collected his research into the Tantou Housen. This book was sent out to the army and they adopted the Japanese sword, importing and making the blades to combat the invaders. They took the sword of the east and perfected it for the continent creating a fighting style known as Watojustu."

"I see..." Kenshin murmured as he straightened his small frame. "This ryu uses the speed and precise slashing attacks of the nihontou while merging with the strength and fluid movements of Chinese Martial Arts."

"Hmm... a rather simple definition for the complexity of Watojutsu... But no matter..." Enishi replied, sliding his glasses back up the bridge of his nose. "It's time to fight... So why don't you show me one of the Hiten Mitsurugi techniques, hmm?"

"Before I do that, you need to take those glasses off... I don't want to blind you."

The corner of Enishi's lip went into a spasm, irritated at the rurouni's concern. "You're rather insistent about me taking off my glasses... why is that?"

"Because I am fighting to stop you... not to permanently injure you."

Enishi frowned and sighed. "You don't get riled up easily do you? Seems I'm going to have to stoke the flames of anger to bring you up to my level... so be it... I suppose I can entertain myself with some chatter..." He charged forward, slashing out left and right in targeted arcs, driving Kenshin further away from the main building and his friends, the pair edging closer to the ruined entryway.

Kenshin knocked away each attack Enishi unleashed, knowing the younger man was merely toying with him, frowning at how far away they were from the engawa. Was this some sort of plan? To separate him from his friends?

"Shall I tell you a story, Battosai?"

The samurai brought his gaze back in focus on Enishi, lifting his sword to parry the larger man's downward slash, pushing up and forcing his opponent away.

Enishi dove right back in, slashing in wild arcs, more for show than power as he continued, unabated by the lazy dance of swords they were performing. "A long time ago in a land far away there lived a beautiful maiden... this maiden had a brother who adored her," Enishi increased the speed of his attack, adding a bit more force, enjoying the strained features of his enemy. "She was his whole world... The only one who loved and cared for him. One day the sister ran away in search of her missing prince... she left the boy alone... and he was heartbroken... The boy went on a journey in search of her... only to find out that the prince had been killed and she'd been taken captive by the cruel murderer...The boy sought to free her from the killer... but he was too late... the hitokiri cut down the beautiful maiden right in front of the helpless boy. There was so much blood... so much... the boy was paralyzed... he couldn't move... couldn't scream... couldn't save her... she was gone..."

The images of Tomoe's death exploded in Kenshin's mind, the old wound of his heart torn open again and he growled. "Stop this, I don't want to hear anymore!"

But Enishi would not be moved. "You're not fighting serious yet... neither am I... just listen... the story is getting even better now..." He thrust the tachi towards Kenshin's head, smirking when the smaller man swatted the attack away. He hacked into the air, driving the samurai right out the entry and down the steps.

The gang on the engawa followed, keeping a safe distance as they watched, picking up pieces of the story above the rain that was beginning to abate.

"The boy tried to get his revenge, but the hitokiri was too strong... his side won the war... so the boy fled to the west... to Shanghai..." Enishi spoke with a relish, attacking with lazy arcs, the two of them moving down step by step away from the compound. "But that city is full of demons... and living became a hardship... he was starving... and weak... too weak to move... he collapsed and would have died... if not for a Japanese couple that had found him. They were doing research in the mainland you see and they took pity on the boy... bringing them to their home in the city. They fed him... and clothed him... and do you know what he did to repay them?" Enishi asked as he kicked out, nearly laughing as Kenshin vaulted back and stumbled down the bottom step that led out into the street below. He paused his attack, pointing his sword downward. "He killed them... every last one... including the children..."

Kenshin's eyes widened, his expression of horror mimicked by the group above.

"My God... you mean he slaughtered the people who helped him?" Megumi murmured in disbelief.

"The bastard was sick in the head from the start!" Sano growled in disgust.

Kaoru shook her head, not wanting to listen but knowing she had to... just as Kenshin had to listen to the white haired man's story.

"He took their money and valuables... and found a book... with a weapon... this weapon here..." Enishi continued, waving the tachi slowly before resting the mune side over his right shoulder as they wandered into the empty street, the audience following and backing a safe distance away. "And in that book, he learned the art of Watojutsu... self taught, he put his own reflections into the style... he became strong... strong enough to defeat anyone who should oppose him. Now then... the boy could have simply stolen the goods and not killed the family that had helped him. So why did he? Why kill them? Was it because they fought him? Was it a deranged mental fit that compelled him to kill? Or was it because he had lost his happiness at the hands of a brutal hitokiri that he could not stand to see happiness in another family?" He paused, sensing the rurouni was about ready to unleash some sort of attack. One more little spark and he'll explode. "The death of happiness is the answer, Battosai... I killed them because they were happy... and it's all your fault..."

Kenshin grit his teeth, appalled at the depraved behavior of the man before him. Anger flashed in his veins and he used that to lend power to his legs "That's enough, Enishi! I won't listen to this anymore!" He jumped up and spun around, slashing out with all the force he could muster, aiming for the side of Enishi's head.

But the white haired man anticipated the attack, knocking it harmlessly aside by tapping with the bottom of the tachi's hilt against the sakabato then sidestepped, thrusting his blade straight through the upper part of Kenshin's left arm, blood exploding as he quickly withdrew the sword and backed away.

Sano, Yahiko, and Megumi blinked in shock, watching as their friend landed and stumbled a bit, blood pouring from the wound.

Saito shook his head. "Moron... the Ryu Kan Sen attack is best used as a counter... he left himself wide open and paid the price for it... what was he thinking doing that?"

Kaoru's heart hammered in her chest, her anxiety growing and the fear carried in her voice as she called out to her beloved, "Kenshin!"

The sound of Kaoru's cry reached the two men and Enishi glared over his shoulder at the girl.

Kaoru felt the anger reflected in Enishi's gaze and she backed up a bit. There was no mistaking it... he was enraged... at her...

The white haired man slowly brought his attention back to the samurai as he continued his story once again. "11 years have passed since that day on the battle field... and the boy is now a man... he returned to his home country to seek out the hitokiri that had robbed him of his sister... And his anger grew... not only had his sister's killer changed his name... he had found a home... friends... and a new woman to replace the one he'd murdered... Such happiness made the man sick... he knew it was time to make the hitokiri pay for his crimes... by killing the new found happiness of the one who had destroyed the man's own... long ago."

Kenshin caught the meaning and his anger grew anew. With surprising speed, the samurai dashed past the younger man, dodging the swipe aimed at his midsection and whirled around to face his opponent, holding out his sword in a protective stance to block any advancement from Enishi. "This fight is between you and me..." He said in a lowered and darker timbre. "You will not involve anyone else..."

Enishi was impressed at how quickly the redhead had moved past him, smirking at the promised threat in the smaller man's tone. "So you're getting serious now? Good... The story was finished anyway..." He brought is blade upright, pointing it at Kenshin. "It's time to settle this once and for all, Battosai..."

Kenshin lifted his sword, cradling it against the left side of his body, his face a mask of determined concentration. The samurai charged forward this time, flicking his wrist as the blade slashed out, meeting Enishi's downward strike, the force was equal, driving both of them back and they countered in sync, the constant clang of metal ringing in the night air as each tried to defeat the other.

Enishi grinned madly at each powerful blow the smaller man unleashed upon his tachi. "Very good, Battosai... you're close to my level now... but it's still not good enough..." He pivoted sideways, lifting his sword parallel of his outstretched arms, his left palm pressing against the dull side of the blade as he swung down in a vicious arc aiming for the top of Kenshin's head.

The samurai dodged, leaping away as he watched Enishi's blade slam into the ground, debris exploding from the force of the blow and countered, gripping the hilt with both hands as he jumped up and extended the blade high over his head.

The white haired man's grin remained. The Ryu Tsui Sen... your favorite attack... and one I've been wanting to destroy for quite some time! His hand wrapped around the cords dangling from the tachi and leapt up to meet Kenshin in the air, swinging the blade from the cord, whipping the blade at the samurai who blocked the attack, his own attempt at striking Enishi disrupted and the pair landed opposite of each other once more.

Kenshin growled and whirled around, charging at the still rising Enishi and unleashed a lightning fast flurry of blows just as he turned, each strike connecting with full force on the bespectacled man's body as the samurai performed the Kuzu Ryu Sen then finished off with a forceful tsuki to the heart, knocking the larger man off his feet and onto the ground in a heap.

Kaoru stared in surprise at the powerful attack, hope rising in her. Is this it? Is Enishi defeated? Hope turn to fear as Enishi came to life and rose to his feet, his large frame was bruised... the blows to his ribs would have caused some breaking... and there was blood on his face as well. So how? How was he still standing after such a powerful assault? "But... that attack... I saw him connect with each strike... How could such an technique have no effect on him?"

"It's not that it had no effect..." Saito chimed in, his experience in battle providing him with answers the girl could not know. "It's that Yukishiro doesn't feel the pain of those strikes. He must be in a state where the spirit overcomes the weakness of the body... It's possible he's been this way since even before this fight... Which means there's only one way to stop this man without killing him. And that is for Himura to use his ultimate attack, the Ama Kakeru Ryo no Hirameki."

Kaoru looked at the police officer as she listened. Kenshin's ultimate attack... That must be what he used to defeat Shishio. She turned he attention back to her betrothed, worry crossing her features as she watched Enishi stalk towards the rurouni. Kenshin... please... you have to be careful... this man... he's... he's not human...

Kenshin stood his ground as his ex brother-in-law came to a stop a few feet before him.

"That attack just now was very strong, Battosai... I am relieved..."

The redhead frowned. "Relieved?"

"Yes... relieved... had you been weak... it would only add to my shame... what kind of brother would I be if I could not protect my sister from someone so weak..." Enishi whirled his sword behind him, snatching the hilt as he rested the blade against the back of his left arm. "Which means you have an even more powerful attack... a finishing move that can defeat even the strongest of men..."

Kenshin's eyes narrowed. His ultimate attack had only been used twice... once against his master... and the second time against Shishio. So how did Enishi know of it? Because he's also a swordsman. He answered himself. All styles had final attacks meant to overpower and defeat their opponent. Hiten Mitsurugi was no different. The Ama Kakeru Ryo no Hirameki would bring down Enishi. But dare I use it now? He wondered, resolve filling him as he straightened his frame. I have no choice. If he can withstand the Kuzu Ryu Sen, then my ougi is the only thing left that can defeat him now. "Enishi... your feelings over your sister's death are not wrong... nor is your hatred of me... That your pain drives you to do this is understandable... But the way you have lived your life since then is wrong... and I cannot allow you to continue this vendetta..." Kenshin slid the sakabato into the saya, tilting the hilt slightly, the metal hand guard clicking as it connected with the scabbard then crouched down into an attacking stance. "I will end this here and now."

Enishi remained standing, his manic eyes studying the samurai intently. "Then by all means try and stop me, Battosai."

"That stance... it's rather unusual..." Saito murmured, taking a drag from his cigarette as he observed the two fighters. "He must have some knowledge or suspicions as to Himura's ultimate move and has a counter in place for it."

"Maybe... but I doubt it," Sano commented. "You were there on that ship... you know what Kenshin's ougi can do... there's no way that Enishi can avoid being hit by the attack..."

Megumi looked over at Kaoru, frowning at how pale she was. "Kaoru... what's wrong?"

The girl could not give voice to answer. She had listened to everyone talk...had understood what Kenshin had to do to win... but what if... what if this fight wasn't the right answer? Enishi's strength was guided by his desire to avenge Tomoe's death. And Kenshin still bore the burden of atoning for her loss... The two ideas were about to clash for the final time... only one of which will prevail and I fear... I fear... for Kenshin... Please... Please survive... I can't bear to lose you...

Enishi tilted his head down, the vision of Tomoe smiling at him, renewing his strength. "Nee-san... you're here..." He lifted his gaze to study the smaller man. "So long as my sister smiles for me, I can never be defeated... My sister inside of you, Battosai, tell me... is she smiling for you now?"

Not for the first time did Kenshin suspect Enishi to be quite mad though he indulged his question. "No... she is not smiling now... but she will be... once this fight has ended... so let us finish this, Enishi." Without warning, the samurai launched himself forward, drawing his sakabato out in a lightning quick motion and stepped forward with his left foot, slicing in a violent and powerful upward sweep meant to strike Enishi's chest only to widen his eyes when the white haired man ducked straight downward, his sword tucked over his back and head as he hugged the ground.

I've got you now! Enishi cried silently as he sprang up, his tachi unleashed upon the unprotected chest of Kenshin and he slashed in diagonal sweep, the ha side of his blade biting sharply into the skin of the redhead, crimson fluid splattering in the wake as he was cut open by Enishi's sword.

Kaoru clutched her heart, her gaze transfixed in horror as she watched Kenshin collapse to his knees, blood pooling around him as the severe cut continued to spew crimson fluid. She wanted to run to him... to save him... But if she did... she would be cut down... and Kenshin would only suffer more. Please... Please get up, Kenshin... You have to move... You have to move before he kills you!

"I don't believe it... he managed to dodge the attack!" Sano exclaimed. "How is that possible?!"

"Idiot..." Saito murmured, drawing the fighter's attention over to him as he tossed his cigarette to the ground and snuffed it out with his shoe. "Himura's ougi can't work on what's not above it... Enishi crouched down to avoid the attack... When Himura missed, he left himself vulnerable to attack and Yukishiro sprang up to counter... The claws and fangs of a dragon that soars to the heavens cannot reach a Tiger that has gone into the earth..." Just what else do you have in store, Yukishiro? He wondered as he watched the white haired male straighten his frame and stalk over to the redhead.

"Does it hurt, Battosai?" Enishi asked, coming to a stop as he loomed over the smaller man. "It's the same wound you gave my sister after all... I still remember her scream... remember the blood... the way it pooled under her lifeless body..." He paused, lifting his sword to rest on his right shoulder. "Of course, I had to hold back a little... can't have you dying on me just yet. Isn't that right, Gein?"

The masked shinobi approached from the darkened street, coming to a stop at the taller man's left. "That is correct..." He crouched down, reaching out for something upon the ground, his gloved hand clasping a thin wire that he yanked back with a simple flick of his wrist.

Explosions erupted simultaneously upon each side of the street all the way up and into the dojo and beyond, filling the air with a thick and heavy smoke that choked out all visibility.

Enishi nodded his approval of Gein's work, peering down coldly at the panting samurai as he clutched at his wound. "In the end... death is too merciful for you, Battosai... It won't appease my anger... nor avenge my sister's death... Your punishment must be more severe... more... devastating..." He walked past the bleeding redhead, eyes as dark as his intentions as he stalked forward. "You killed my sister's betrothed... and murdered my sister... so too, will I kill the one most precious to you. You will be made to suffer a living hell... just as I have for the last 15 years... this is my ultimate Jinchuu for you, Battosai..."

Kenshin's eyes widened in alarm at this revelation. Enishi's promised threat brought the fear in the back of the rurouni's mind into the forefront. Kaoru was precious to the samurai... she was his heart... his world.. if she were to die now... NO! He roared silently. I can't let this happen! I won't let it happen! I have to get up! I have to stop him! Driven by desperation to protect his beloved from Enishi, Kenshin tapped into his will and began to rise, ignoring the flare of pain that erupted with each movement. He turned and stepped forward, strength returning as he savagely shoved aside the weakness of his dying body, making to follow Enishi and stop him.

A short distance away, the Kenshin-gumi and Saito looked around in confusion and irritation, their vision limited by the thick smoke that swirled around them.

"What the hell is this?!" Sano shouted, peering wildly around for some sign of movement in front of him. "I can't see a damn thing!"

Megumi reached out and grabbed hold of the fighter's sleeve, keeping close to him. "Stay still, idiot! I don't want to lose you in this smoke."

Saito's eyes narrowed. Though it was difficult to see, he could still hear foot steps approaching. Himura could not move that quickly... injured as he is, which means only one thing. Enishi set this up from the beginning... to get to Battosai's weak point. "Yukishiro's coming this way. You need to get Kamiya-san out of this smoke and away from here quickly." He barked, looking over at Yahiko who stood next to him.

"Right..." Yahiko replied, reaching out to tug at Kaoru's sleeve. "We've got to go, Kaoru..."

But the girl stood firm. "No... I won't leave him!"

The boy frowned. "Kaoru, you can't stay here... Enishi's coming for you! He'll kill you if he can, don't you realize that?!"

"I will not leave Kenshin!" She cried. "I have to make sure he lives on... so I can live on with him... I can't abandon him now... I just can't!"

"Kaoru... you saw what happened! Kenshin's too messed up to save anyone right now! He told me to protect you which is what I'm trying to do! So we have to go!" Yahiko shot back, snapping his gaze up as Enishi was suddenly upon them.

The man swept his eyes around the group, a dismissive tone in his voice as he fixed his gaze upon the defiant form of Kaoru. "The rest of you are in the way... step aside..."

Kaoru's gaze shifted beyond Enishi, shock and hope blooming on her face and the white hair man frowned, looking over his shoulder, surprised to find the bloodied samurai standing within reach of the white haired man's tachi but he made no move to strike him down.

"Ah, so you're able to stand after all... this is good... My revenge would be ruined if you die..."

His voice was cut off as Kenshin suddenly lashed out with his right fist, smashing it and the hilt of his Sakabato into the larger man's face.

The strength of the blow knocked Enishi backwards, sending his glasses flying and his large frame crashing into the ground several feet away. The Watojustu master growled and sat up, shocked and angered by the power in the attack. He pressed his hand against the swollen side of his face, glaring up at Kenshin. How is this possible?! I cut him to the quick! He shouldn't have the ability to fight me anymore!

A seething look crossed the samurai's features, his voice thunderous in its rage as he shouted, "I WON'T ALLOW YOU TO DO THIS! I DON'T CARE IF TOMOE IS SMILING DOWN AT YOU, I WON'T ALLOW YOU TO HURT, KAORU!"

Enishi's mouth quirked in annoyance as he rose. "You won't allow it? This is good, Battosai... Get angry... The more the you desire to protect her... the greater the shock when she's gone..."

Kenshin lunged at Enishi, all pretense of defense gone as he lashed out with his closed fist, rage fueling his strength as he struck the larger man in the stomach then snapped his arm up, slamming the side of his hilt under Enishi's chin. Blood exploded from the Watojutsu master's mouth, face glazed with shock as the rurouni whirled around and brought his blade in an upward swipe, the dull end smashing into the side of Enishi's head. The white haired man was lifted off his feet and his body sent crashing into the outer wall of the dojo perimeter.

Kenshin stalked forward as he watched Enishi push off the wall and straighten his frame, eyes fixed in a withering stare as he glared at his opponent and snarled, "If you think for one second I will let you harm Kaoru, you are mistaken... you won't touch her... I won't allow it!"

Enishi shook off the pain circulating in his body, features a dark mask of anger and confusion. Where is he getting this strength from? He should be broken... body and soul... not fighting like this. I won't stand for it! I won't lose! My sister will be avenged! He rushed forward, lifting his tachi to strike Kenshin down but the smaller man ducked, slamming his sword into the larger male's midsection, knocking him back and away.

Nearby, the group tried to organize themselves, the smoke making it difficult to impossible to see more than a few feet in front of them.

"Kaoru, we have to go!" Yahiko cried, tugging at her kimono. "We can get to safety and Kenshin can come to us but we can't linger here any longer!"

"But... I can't abandon Kenshin right now... I can't..."

"Get your act together, Kaoru!" Megumi shouted at her. "You said it yourself that night in the kitchen. If you die, Kenshin will blame himself and suffer! Is that what you want?!"

Megumi's words shook Kaoru out of her paralyzed thoughts and she blinked, casting a look over in the direction of where Kenshin was still fighting with Enishi. He's fighting to protect me... if I die here... he will suffer and die of a broken heart... I can't allow that... I have to live on... I know he will come for me... will come back to me... I know it... Determined to follow through with staying alive, Kaoru turned to Yahiko and nodded. "Let's go!"

"Right!" Yahiko replied with a nod, taking hold of Kaoru's hand as they raced off and away from the smoke.

Sano made a fist. "Let's go stop this fight!"

"I thought it was a private duel..." Saito murmured, smirking at the fighter's agitated reaction.

"Give me a break will ya? You don't want this guy to get away, right? So let's take him out now and end this."

"Fine..." Saito replied as he drew out his sword and held it to his side. "I was getting bored standing around anyway..."

"Megumi, wait here, okay? I'll be right back."

The lady doctor nodded at Sano's instruction, not wanting to argue the point. "Don't do anything too stupid."

"Can't guarantee I won't, but I'll do my best." The fighter said with a grin before stalking forward in the smoke, Saito right behind him, as they headed in the direction of Kenshin and Enishi's fight.

Kenshin and Enishi's fight

The rurouni showed no signs of wearing down, unleashing a volley of strikes that connected to Enishi's legs, ribs, arms, and neck. But the white haired man kept getting back up. I won't lose! I can't lose! Nee-san! Nee-san give me strength! He brought his sword up and charged forward, roaring out his fury only to be driven to the ground as Kenshin brought his sakabato up and slammed in across the top of his head.

Kenshin loomed over the fallen man, a stony expression upon his bruised features as he lifted his sakabato over his head. "When you awaken from this, I will tell you the truth of all things... if after that, you still desire revenge, I will fight you... but for now... sleep, Enishi..."

A gunshot went off within the darkened plume and Kenshin felt something strike at his blade, the reverberation felt down from the hilt into his arm as the sakabato flew from his hand. He lifted his gaze, blinking as the large form of Hyougo burst through the billowing smoke haze and jumped onto him, knocking the smaller man down and pinning him to the ground.

Enishi rose, a wicked smile upon his face as he scoured the ground for his glasses then scooped them up, sliding them back into place. "Well now... seems my allies are still of some use after all..."

Kenshin struggled to get out of Hyougo's hold, desperation in his voice as he shouted, "Enishi, wait!"

The white haired man walked away from the rurouni. "Don't worry... Battosai... it'll all be over soon..."

The redhead grit his teeth, a wild look in his eyes as he cried out at the top of his lungs, "ENISHI! STOP! DON'T HURT KAORU!"

But Enishi paid no mind, disappearing into the smoke, leaving Kenshin at the mercy of Hyougo who growled and lashed out, smashing his left hand into the side of Kenshin's head and the world began to spin, the face of Kaoru floating in his mind and he fought against the hold. I have to get out of this... I have to save her! Kami-sama give me strength!

A flash of movement caught his eye and Kenshin blinked as a shoe flew into view, slamming into the side of Hyougo's head, knocking the large man off the rurouni.

"Get off him, you jerk!" Sano snarled then shifted his gaze, looking down at Kenshin as he held out his hand. "You alright?"

The redhead nodded, taking Sano's hand as the fighter helped him to his feet. "I have to get to Kaoru!" He panted, looking frantically for his sakabato, scooping it up from the nearby wall and tore off before anyone could stop him.

Sano watched him go, turning to the sound of Saito's voice as he came up behind him.

"You should get going, too... Himura may need your help."

"What about you?" Sano asked, his gaze shifting to the rising form of Hyougo.

"I'll take care of this scum..." The officer answered, holding up his sword in response. "Now go... before it's too late..."

"Right..." Sano took off, back into the smoke, stopping in front of Megumi and he took her hand, dragging her forward.

"Sano, what are you doing?!" She demanded, racing with him down the smoke cloud that swirled around them.

"Going after Kenshin, come on!" The fighter answered, continuing to pull the lady doctor with him, hoping he could help Kenshin save Kaoru from Enishi's plan to kill her.

On a street near the dojo

Yahiko and Kaoru emerged from the smoke, the pair trying to find their bearings as they ran as fast as their legs could carry them. He spied the bridge that led to the opposite side of the river. There's a police station not too far from here... if we can get over the bridge we'll be safe! He tugged on his teacher's hand, guiding her forward only to skid to a stop at the sight of a masked shinobi blocking their path. "You!" Yahiko shouted, lifting his bokken up as he stood in front of Kaoru.

"Going somewhere, boy?" Gein asked, eyeing the two before him with amused eyes.

"Get out of our way!"

The ninja laughed softly at the boy's growled command. "I'm afraid I can't let you do that... you see... Your sensei has a date with destiny... one which she cannot be late for..."

Yahiko frowned. "What crap are you talking about? Kaoru belongs with Kenshin... and I won't let you hurt her."

"Who said I wanted to hurt her?" Gein replied nonchalantly. "Besides... I'm not the one you should be worried about..."

Yahiko saw the ninja looking at something beyond them and he turned, gasping at the sight of Enishi approaching them. "Get behind me, Kaoru..."

"Yahiko... you can't defeat him..."

"Well, I can't let him hurt you! I won't.. I made a promise to Kenshin and I won't break it!" The boy shouted, sticking his chin out defiantly as he snapped at the much larger male. "That's close enough!"

Enishi slowed to a stop, a dark mask upon his countenance. He didn't like this.. being so far away from the site of his Jinchuu... and the boy... trying so hard to defend his teacher...brought back memories of his own desire to protect his sister which troubled the Watojutsu master enough that he paused. "Boy... you are not part of this... leave..."

"I'm not going anywhere! I won't let you touch, Kaoru!"

"I'm afraid I can't allow her to live... I bear no ill will... but for Jinchuu to delivered, Kamiya-san must die..."

"Bullcrap!" Yahiko snarled and attacked with all the force he could muster.

Enishi jumped back, avoiding the strike to his stomach, frowning as he spoke, "Gein... if you please..."

Yahiko growled, making to strike again only to blink as something wrapped around his midsection and yanked him back. The bokken went flying from his hands, clanking on the street as he was tossed into the air, his small form crashing into the river below with a loud splash, the current carrying him away from the battle and his sensei.

"Yahiko!" Kaoru cried, fearful eyes watching as her student floated down the river, whirling around as she felt Enishi advance upon her. Her eyes darted about, falling on her pupil's wooden sword and she dove, her hand clasping the hilt and she rolled into a stand, holding it directly in front of her.

Enishi stared at the sword then the girl as he stopped a few feet from her. "It's pointless to fight... you don't have the strength to face me... as you are..."

"I may not have your strength... or Kenshin's skill... but I won't give up so easily... I will fight if I have to... I will fight to protect others... even if I lose... I will not give in..."

"His love for you gives you strength... as yours does for him... yes... I can see that it does..." Enishi murmured. "But I'm sorry to say... this is the end for you..." He brought his tachi up, rushing forward as Kaoru lifted her bokken, the two clashing in the empty street.

The battle was brief and Gein watched as his boss went about his business, following silently behind him as they headed back to the dojo for the final part of the plan.

Kenshin, meanwhile, continued on through the smoke, emerging into the clear street, searching frantically for some sign of his Kaoru. Something moved in the distance and the rurouni charged forward, recognizing the approaching figure. "Yahiko!"

The boy lifted his head at the sound of the samurai's voice and rushed forward. "Kenshin!"

The redhead noticed the soaked clothing as the boy stopped before him, concern welling in his heart. "What happened Yahiko? Where's Kaoru?"

"They took her Kenshin... that masked shinobi and Enishi... they threw me into the river and grabbed her... I don't know... I don't know where they went... but... we have to find her!" He stammered through chattering teeth.

Kenshin's features turned ashen. If they took Kaoru then that means... He smelt it then... a hauntingly familiar fragrance and his mind began to reel... no... this scent... He tore off, following the scent trail, Yahiko close behind.

"Kenshin, wait up will ya!" Sano's voice shouted, still holding onto Megumi's hand as the pair reached the location of their friend, but the rurouni paid no heed, tearing past the fighter and doctor then around the bend to the next street. He followed the fragrance as it grew progressively stronger and he yanked open the untouched side gate of the dojo and raced inside, the scent of Ume flowers nearly overbearing as it mingled with the smoldering remnants of Gein's smoke bomb attack.

"Welcome, Battosai..." A voice whispered in the dark and Kenshin froze, turning around slowly to find Enishi peering down his nose at him. "How do you like the smell? White plum... my sister's favorite... quite lovely don't you agree?"

The small hairs on the back of Kenshin's neck stirred, his nostrils flared and he glared at his ex-brother in law with panic filled eyes. "ENISHI, WHAT DID YOU DO TO KAORU?!"

"Follow the scent... there will lie the answers you seek..."

A sudden spurt of adrenaline coursed through Kenshin's veins and he darted forward, a sickening wave of terror welling in his stomach as he raced up and along the engawa. He tore into the open training hall where the fragrance was strongest, skidding to a stop, dropping his sword as he stood paralyzed, gawking in horror at the sight that met his gaze. There, before his feet, lay the prone form of Kaoru, an X carved into her left cheek and her chest skewered with Enishi's tachi. "No... It... It can't be... She can't be... Kaoru..." His body trembled as he stared down at his beloved. Please, Kami-sama... don't let her be dead... she can't be dead... she can't... He pleaded as his knees began to quake and his legs suddenly buckled.

The samurai collapsed, tears springing in his eyes as he reached out, taking her small hand into his larger one, feeling the warmth of her skin. Yet there was no pulse... no life within her and his mind began to unravel... She was his world... His heart... His love... His future... And now his world was burning... His heart was broken... His love was dead... And his future gone... It's all my fault... I couldn't save her... I couldn't save Kaoru! She's dead, dead, DEAD!

He crawled forward and with gentle care drew out the sword impaled within her chest, tossing it aside then pulled Kaoru into his arms, cradling her as the tears trailed in rivulets down his face. Grief began to overwhelm him, the ache in his chest becoming unbearable... his broken heart fracturing as his mind and soul fell into a dark pit of desolation, unable to contain the cry of agony that exploded from his throat as he hugged her to him, his head resting against hers as he rocked back and forth. "KAORU!"

Another chapter completed... Hope it was to everyone's satisfaction... next time we'll get into Kaoru's burial... Kenshin's disappearance... Enishi's destination... and the dilemma his new found... company... must face... and most likely the arrival of Aoishi and Misao to Tokyo... we'll see... As always do please review if you liked the chapter... it helps to motivate me... onto reviews!

Guest- Thank you! I'm glad you liked it! Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well! Thanks for reading and leaving a review!

Sayuru- Well, there won't be any real detail of the wedding night on this site... if I do it at all... it'll be posted on a different one... Thanks for leaving a few lines and for reading.

Queen 0f Games- It's awesome you read it so many times. I know you enjoy action scenes. Hopefully when you read this you'll like it just as much.

I had fun writing Sano vs Banjin... it's all about strength and fists... real tough guys... duking it out. And of course I had to have some Megumi and Sano moments... a kiss would have been good there... I agree!

I wanted to show how much Yahiko has grown... and how much he respects and loves his teacher... she is both sister and mother to him after all. I can do emotional stuff sometimes... though it isn't always easy. And Hyouko was a fool... and that's why he got his butt kicked...

Writing battles happening all at the same time is difficult in this type of format... but alas... I'm a writer not an artist... which is why manga is a great medium for such things as fight scenes...

I hope I didn't disappoint with the fight in this one... it was very long and covered the majority of the chapter for both Saito's fight and Kenshin's. The ending was emotional as well.. though I feel I could have done a better job with it.

I do hope to hear from you soon... I know you had some issues to take care of state side... and I am... concerned... I want to know you're doing okay... I thank you for taking the time to read and leave me such awesome reviews! I love them! Take care, okay?

Bismarck Alexander- I wanted to showcase what Yahiko learned while giving Kaoru some fighting... Yahiko will become a great master of the Kasshin Ryu someday after all. Thanks for reading and leaving a few lines!

Katherine- Whoa... even better than the manga version? Oro? That is high praise indeed! I do hope to see an RK movie covering this stuff... the manga really deserves it. Your favorite? Sweet! I'm honored. Thank you and thanks for taking the time to read and review, I appreciate it!

mmadams- I am happy it was easy to follow and that the battles were to your liking. I do my best to keep everyone in character. I write mostly in the Yu Yu Hakusho world so RK is still something I'm learning to get comfortable doing but I'm glad that I do well enough at it.

I wanted to do something different from the manga of course, while giving both Yahiko and Kaoru the spotlight in the fight with Hyouko. Kaoru deserves some fight scenes, too, right?

:Chuckles: I knew you'd really enjoy that part. Megumi and Sano didn't do much in this chapter but I hope you like it anyway. I look forward to your thoughts and I thank you for reading and reviewing! Makes my day!

animanical- Well, in keeping with what I wrote in chapter 6, I had to have Kaoru be the one to take on Hyouko for the most part. Action is something I enjoy writing most and it was difficult to do so many going on at the same time but I am pleased that the location details helped.

Saito had some time in this chapter and I hope I did alright with him... and that you like the changes makes me smile. Thanks for reading and leaving a review... I always appreciate hearing from you!

Scarred Sword Heart- :Shuffles feet: Well, I wanted to keep things similar but different... so that you think it was good makes me happy. The fight between Otowa and Kaoru was something I wanted to showcase as different from the manga story line. I set it up in chapter 6 for that moment in chapter 20... and yet, I wanted Yahiko involved as well... so I had him block Hyouko's blade and finish him off... showing the boy's growth... and his protective nature towards Kaoru. I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well and I thank you for reviewing and reading my work!