These Changing Times
This fanfic series takes place two years after the Revenge Arc ends, in an alternate RuroKen universe. (Only because I started it well before the manga ended ^_^;;) Eighteen-year-old Makimachi Misao comes to Tokyo to stay with Kenshin and Kaoru... and to put her own troubles behind her. A newly attentive Sagara Sanosuke is more than willing to distract her. Then a certain Oniwabanshuu onmitsu turns up in Tokyo to help investigate a wave of vicious armed robberies sweeping the city...
Comments and constructive criticism are always appreciated. But be warned: this fic meddles with what seem to be considered the tried-and-true romantic pairings in RuroKen (in case I didn't already make that clear). So if you read further, please be kind and keep an open mind! ^^;;
Note: for those who are new to the language, go to http://home.netcom.com/~sakka/times/glossary.htm to get information on the Japanese terms and expressions used in this chapter.
Chapter 24 -- All Ends Well
Aoshi walked slowly through the empty streets of Tokyo, enjoying the early-morning silence. As was his custom, he'd risen just before dawn and meditated for about an hour before packing up the few things he'd brought with him. He'd settled his bill at the inn the night before so as not to hinder his journey. After weeks of cramped spaces and hoards of people, he was very much looking forward to traveling through the sparsely populated countryside for awhile.Of course, Kyoto is just as crowded, but at least it's familiar. It will be good to return. But first...
He slowed a bit as he approached Kamiya Doujou. He'd intended to say his farewell to Misao after dinner last night, but she had insisted on seeing him off in the morning with some food for his journey... and he didn't have the heart or the energy to argue with her. As Aoshi effortlessly cleared the back gate, his stomach growled, making him glad she'd been so adamant about packing him provisions. She's actually turned into quite a good cook... Okon and Kuro will be pleased to hear it, he thought, his mouth curving slightly in amusement.
With his trademark onmitsu stealth, Aoshi slipped up to the kitchen... and froze as he caught sight of two forms pressed together in the shadows just outside the building. He heard the soft, wet sound of mouths meeting, then Misao's strangled whisper --
"Sano... thought you were going to help me... with the food..."
Sano emitted a low, masculine chuckle. "I thought you said the food was done," he murmured.
"It is... but I have to..." Misao's voice trailed off into a low moan.
"Mm-hm?" Sano's smug tone set Aoshi's teeth on edge. "You have to what, kirei?"
"I can't remember, dammit," she hissed. "Sano... quit that..."
"What... that? Or maybe you meant... that?"
Another moan, louder this time. Aoshi felt his cheeks grow hot, and he had to use every ounce of Zen training he possessed to resist the urge to slaughter the yarou who had dared put his filthy hands on his precious, innocent Misao. Only the thought of Misao's horrified reaction kept him from doing so.
I know she's with him by choice... but still... I can't just let him get away with this!
Aoshi thought for a moment, then loudly cleared his throat. The speed with which Sano and Misao jumped apart -- and the brief expression of terror that crossed Sano's face as he caught sight of Aoshi -- helped satisfy the onmitsu's need for revenge.
"Eeto... Aoshi-sama..." Misao stammered, her face beet-red as she straightened her rumpled uniform and pushed her unbraided hair out of her face. Her disheveled appearance, as well as the cloak laying in a heap behind her, told Aoshi as plainly as words where she'd spent the night. He was mortified at the thought, and cursed himself for a high-minded, sentimental fool. How many times do I have to tell myself she's not a child anymore?
Aoshi drew a deep breath. "Where is that food you promised me, Misao?" he said, keeping his tone light.
Misao stared at him, then smiled hesitantly. Not even a lecture? Aoshi-sama, you *have* changed...
"It's almost ready," she said. "Give me one minute." She squeezed Sano's hand and darted into the kitchen. Sano turned to follow her, but Aoshi blocked his path.
"Chotto matte, Sagara," he said in a much darker tone. When Aoshi's narrowed eyes met Sano's, the ex-gangster felt his blood run cold.
Shit. He's out for my blood this time. He gave a mental shrug. Ah well... might as well go out in style...
Sano held Aoshi's gaze defiantly. "You want a piece of me? Fine," he said with as much bravado as he could muster. "But we should go somewhere else... I don't want Misao to see us fighting."
Aoshi sighed in exasperation. "Much as I'm tempted by your offer... I must decline," he said, adding pointedly --
"For Misao's sake."
"Yeah, yeah," Sano grumbled, waving a hand dismissively. "Whatever. So... what do you want from me, then?"
Aoshi paused, considering. "Have you told Misao of your intentions yet?" he asked.
"He has."
Misao stepped out of the kitchen, holding up a large bundle. "This should get you as far as Hakone," she said, handing the bundle to Aoshi. She then approached Sano, taking his hand as she faced Aoshi again.
"Sano has asked me to marry him," she said. "And I have accepted his proposal."
Aoshi silently regarded Misao's determined stance... the upward tilt of her chin... the blend of fear and resolve in her aqua eyes. Sano moved to stand directly behind Misao, resting his hands on her shoulders possessively.
"I know we're not exactly doing things the way we should," he said. "And I know you don't approve. But we love each other."
"I know," Aoshi said, his eyes fixed on Misao. "You know my misgivings," he said to her. "But if this is really what you want..."
"It is," she said quietly, reaching up and covering one of Sano's hands with her own. "More than anything."
Aoshi closed his eyes briefly against the bewildering sensation of loss that surged within his breast. My little Misao... how I wish I could keep you a child forever. But that isn't to be... so...
His eyes snapped open. "Then... you have my blessing," he said slowly.
Misao launched herself at Aoshi, throwing her arms around his waist and nearly knocking the food-bundle out of his hands.
"Arigatou," she whispered fiercely. "Honto ni, arigatou, Aoshi-sama..."
Aoshi awkwardly set the bundle down and returned Misao's hug. "I'll tell Okina, if you wish," he said, absently stroking her hair.
Misao drew away from him, wiping her eyes and nodding. "Tell Jiya to expect a letter from me, too," she said. "Sano will soon be finished work for the winter, and I've invited him to stay with us in Kyoto until the spring. We'll talk about the arrangements then."
Aoshi nodded, glancing at Sano, who returned the onmitsu's gaze just as warily. Hopefully I'll be able to resign myself to his presence by then, Aoshi thought with a quiet sigh.
Hopefully I'll be able to stomach the sight of him by then, Sano thought simultaneously, gritting his teeth against the jealousy that had seethed within him as he watched Misao and Aoshi embrace.
Aoshi opened his traveling sack and stuffed the food bundle inside. He rose to his feet and gave Misao a faint smile.
"I'll see you soon, then" he said. "Ki o tsukete, Misao."
"Safe journey, Aoshi-sama," she said, beaming. As Aoshi turned to leave, he called over his shoulder --
"Take good care of her, Sagara... or I will be taking you up on your offer next time we meet."
"Wakatta," Sano replied with a grin. "Ja na, Shinomori."
Misao watched as Aoshi climbed over the back gate and disappeared. She smiled as Sano embraced her from behind, sagging against him with a grateful sigh.
"I'm glad that's settled," she said.
"Aa," Sano agreed fervently as Misao turned around in his arms, pressing her face to his chest. "Now there's nothing standing in our way," he whispered as she raised her eyes to his.
"Nothing," she echoed, standing on tiptoe to kiss him. A few long moments later, a sharp whistle interrupted them.
"Oi, don't you guys ever come up for air?" Yahiko called, grinning at them as he tried to keep hold of a squirming Kintou. Kenshin and Kaoru were standing behind him, each holding a sleeping infant and wearing a weary smile.
Sano beamed at them as he put an arm around Misao. "I'm glad you guys are up," he said, looking down at Misao, who smiled at him encouragingly as he continued --
"We have something important to tell you."
.....................
Okina set aside Misao's letter, his brow furrowed. To say he was shocked by its contents would be an understatement. He'd hoped that Misao's trip to Tokyo would help her heart heal, allowing her to finally put aside her devotion to Aoshi. But when Aoshi so readily agreed to meet Saitou in Tokyo, Okina had allowed himself to hope that his okashira would mend the rift with Misao... perhaps even accept her love.
The last thing he expected was for Misao to be returning to Kyoto with Sagara Sanosuke as her intended. Okina closed his eyes with a weary sigh.
It happened so quickly... can it be real love? Misao assures me it is, but...
After all the pain Misao had endured in her brief lifetime, Okina was loathe to raise objections to her choice of a mate... though he had plenty. A penniless peasant who was a rebel traitor and gangster... and remains a gambler and layabout. What if he played on Misao's vulnerabilities and is looking for an easy living?
Of course, Himura Kenshin had vouched for the young rascal on many occasions, and Okina had to admit Sanosuke had charmed him -- and everyone else at the Aoiya -- by the end of Himura-tachi's stay in Kyoto. Also, he had proven himself a loyal comrade in battle on countless occasions -- even Aoshi had acknowledged as much.
Okina picked up the letter again and re-read the last few lines. He could almost hear Misao's bubbly voice speaking them --
... I know you, Jiya. You're probably worrying right now, wondering if I'm really in love with Sano and ready to marry him. Please believe me... our love for each other is deep and true and has only grown through our many trials these past few months. There is no other man in the world I'd rather spend the rest of my life with. Remember that when you see us... and try to go easy on him, ne?
"Okina. You wished to see me?"
Okina hastily folded the letter and tucked it into his vest. "Come in, Aoshi," he said, motioning to the tea setting laid out across from him. "I apologize for imposing upon you so soon after your return. Omasu is bringing us refreshments."
Aoshi nodded as he took his place. Omasu arrived almost immediately, bearing a heavily laden tray. She silently served the men, bowed and exited so quickly Aoshi barely had a chance to thank her. He raised an eyebrow at Okina.
"I told Omasu I didn't want any disturbances," Okina explained. "The matter I have to discuss with you is of utmost importance."
"You want to discuss Misao and Sagara Sanosuke, correct?"
Okina stared at Aoshi, who calmly sipped his tea, his expression as unfathomable as ever. "How long have you known?" the old man sputtered.
"I have known Misao and Sagara had grown close since I first arrived in Tokyo," Aoshi said placidly. "I did not know the extent of their feelings until recently."
"So... you know that Misao intends to marry him," Okina said, scowling.
"Aa. They told me as much," Aoshi said.
"And you have no objections to their match?"
Aoshi set his cup down and met Okina's eyes. "I have some," he admitted. "I shared my concerns with both of them when I found out what their intentions were. But they weren't swayed."
"Young fools," Okina muttered. He started to say more, but Aoshi interrupted him --
"Okina, I understand your misgivings... I'm sure they're the same as mine. But one thing is for certain -- they truly are in love." Aoshi took a deep breath, forcing himself to continue. "Sagara... has made his feelings for Misao quite clear in both word and deed... and he has taken steps to make himself a worthy husband. And Misao..."
Aoshi faltered as he pictured Misao's glorious smile after he'd given her marriage plans his approval. He swallowed past the sudden lump in his throat, adding in a strong voice --
"Misao is happier than I've ever seen her, Okina. Because of Sagara. All my objections seemed insignificant in the face of her joy... so I have given her my blessing. I ask that you do the same."
Okina's breath caught at Aoshi's impassioned speech. It had been a long, long time since Okina had heard Aoshi express himself so freely -- it made Okina bolder than he would have been otherwise.
"I will do as you ask -- if you answer a question for me," Okina said.
Aoshi hesitated, then nodded.
"Are you sure about this, Aoshi?" Okina asked gently. "Your eyes tell me you have regrets."
Aoshi paused as he recalled the countless hours of pondering the same question on his return journey to Kyoto... and the answer that had come to him.
"My only regret is hurting Misao for as long as I did," he said in a low, hoarse voice. "And I have other... more selfish... regrets." He held up his still-bandaged left arm. Okina nodded sympathetically.
"Himura told us of your injury," he said. "Have you regained any control over it?"
"Some," Aoshi said. "I am able to hold a cup for a few moments before dropping it. But Takani-sensei tells me it will be a long time before we know the full extent to which I am disabled. I almost certainly will have to return to single-sword combat... we'll see if it affects my kempo as well."
"If there's anything we can do to help..." Okina said.
"Arigatou," Aoshi replied. "I'll let you know." He fell silent again for a moment, remembering the battle with Toushi. His lip curled slightly as he remembered how badly Toushi had hurt Misao.
"No... I cannot even regret this crippled arm," he said with sudden passion. "To regret that would be to regret my reason for the fight which gave me the injury. Just as to regret hurting Misao is to regret loving her so much that I did whatever I could to spare her pain."
Ignoring Okina's befuddled gaze, Aoshi continued --
"That is the answer I have found. I still live to serve the Oniwabanshuu, to whom I owe my life, for as long as they still exist and I am physically able. But above all, I will do anything... anything... to protect Misao's happiness. I promised that to Sorata-san long ago... and I renewed that vow in Tokyo." His voice thickened almost imperceptibly. "I will miss her... terribly... once she leaves us to make her new life with Sagara. But my vow gives me the strength to let her go."
Okina felt his eyes mist as he regarded the handsome young man seated across from him. So this is the man that has lay behind the impassive mask all these years... he reminds me of the strong, passionate boy I used to know so many years ago. Shinomori Aoshi...
"If you can put aside your regrets... then I can as well," Okina said, smiling. "I will give Misao and Sagara Sanosuke my blessing when they arrive." He set his untouched tea back on the tray and rose to his feet. "Misao didn't say when to expect them," he said to Aoshi.
"Probably in about three weeks' time," Aoshi said. "Misao wants to make arrangements as soon as possible."
"I suppose that's our little Misao," Okina chuckled. "Once she sets her mind to something, it gets done, and quickly. But if she thinks she's going to sneak off and get married in some quick civil ceremony, she's in for a rude awakening!"
Okina laughed heartily as he exited the room. Despite his best efforts, Aoshi couldn't help smiling as well.
.....................
The appointed day dawned clear and bright, the warm spring air sweetly scented with sakura petals. Misao leaned out the window, breathing deeply, eyes closed in rapture. The weather is perfect. I'm glad we waited after all...
A sharp rap sounded on Misao's door, followed by Omasu's anxious voice. "Misao-chan? Are you awake?"
"Hai... ohairi!" Misao called. Omasu and Okon entered, their arms laden with boxes.
"Don't look so worried... we have plenty of time," Misao said, beaming. "Now, what should we do first?"
"Why don't you put on your underclothing... then we'll do your hair and makeup," Okon said briskly. "We'll save your kimono for last, so that we don't spill anything on it."
Misao agreed cheerfully and submitted herself to her friends' ministrations. Normally, such attention would have driven her crazy with impatience, but the importance of the occasion -- as well as her own utter happiness -- quelled any urge Misao might have had to rush things along. This was one day where she wanted to look her absolute best.
The three women chatted and laughed while they worked, although Misao caught Okon dabbing her eyes with her sleeve more than once. Misao smiled, feeling her own eyes mist as she remembered how readily Okon had assumed a motherly role toward an orphaned young girl... and how she and Omasu had become as older sisters to her in the years that followed.
"There," Okon said, pushing the final hairpin in place while Omasu finished painting Misao's lips with rouge. "Now for your kimono."
Misao felt a lump rise in her throat as Okon removed the white silk garment from its lacquered box and shook it out. The kimono that Misao's mother had worn at her own wedding was embroidered with rich gold thread that shone in the morning light. The patterns weren't completely distinct, but Misao could make out the characters for fidelity and luck hidden within the garment's weave, as well as a crane standing amid shafts of bamboo. The elegant flow of the design was a testament to the kimono's superb craftsmanship.
"It's beautiful," Misao whispered, blinking back the threatening tears. Kaa-san... if only you and tou-san could see me in it...
"Makimachi Misao, don't you dare cry now!" Omasu said sternly, squeezing Misao's hands. "You'll ruin your makeup!"
Misao laughed. "Gomen nasai," she said brightly. "I promise that's the last time."
"I doubt that," Okon said wryly. "But if you can make it through the ceremony with dry eyes, I'll be satisfied. Now let's get you dressed."
After what seemed like hours of pulling and prodding, Okon and Omasu released Misao and backed away a few steps to look at her. "Utsukushii..." Omasu sighed, clasping her hands together.
"Indeed," Okon said, her eyes brightening again. "Misao-chan, you're the very image of your mother. She would be so pleased..."
"Oi," Misao said gruffly as the two women sniffled. "If I can't cry, then neither can you guys! You'll just get me started again..."
Laughing, Omasu pulled Misao toward the looking-glass hanging on the wall of the inn's room. "Take a look at our handiwork," she said with a wink.
Misao gaped at the beautiful, regal-looking woman staring back at her from the mirror. "Oh," she breathed, snapping her mouth shut as she remembered Okon's endless lectures about keeping her lips together when she spoke or laughed. She turned her head this way and that, marveling at how a few hair ornaments, a little face powder and some lip color could make a person look so different.
Gods, Sano won't even recognize me! she thought, her heart fluttering as she imagined his shock when he saw her. She always took a bit more care with her appearance when she and Sano went out on dates, but in the months they'd spent together, they had seen each other in every light and under every possible circumstance. To know that she still had the power to surprise her lover was a very pleasant thought indeed.
"Hmm... such a wicked smile, Misao-chan," Omasu teased. "You must be thinking about your wedding night."
Misao winked before assuming a more prim expression. "I don't know what you're talking about," she said, blinking innocently.
All three erupted into giggles. "Well... you're already well-prepared for that part of married life," Omasu said with an answering wink.
"Not as well-prepared as I'd have liked," Misao grumbled. "Aoshi-sama hasn't made it easy for us these past few months."
"He was just trying to protect you," Okon said sensibly as she put the last brush away. "You'll always be his little Misao, after all."
"I know, I know," Misao said, rolling her eyes. She really did appreciate how much more visibly affectionate Aoshi had become toward her... but by the time they had all left for Tokyo a few weeks ago, she was finding his big-brotherly ways more exasperating than endearing. And his interference certainly hadn't helped her efforts to get Sano and Aoshi to warm up to each other. They still act like enemies forced into an uneasy truce...
"It doesn't help that Aoshi-sama and Sanosuke dislike each other so much," Okon went on with a sigh. "I suppose that can't be helped, though."
"Do you really think so?" Misao asked, her voice anxious. "I keep hoping things will change, but..."
"They are complete opposites, so I doubt they'll ever truly get along," Omasu said. "But once you and Sanosuke are married, Aoshi-sama will have to ease up a little. Ne, Okon?"
"I think so," Okon said, setting the stack of boxes in a corner. "There's time enough to worry about that later... right now, we need to leave for the shrine. Are you ready, Misao-chan?"
Misao pushed aside her worries and beamed at her surrogate sisters. "Hai. Ikimasho," she said, her kimono rustling as she slowly exited the room.
.....................
"Will you stop that pacing and sit down! You're making me dizzy!"
Sano flinched and glared at his tormentor, who smirked in reply from his seat in the grass. "You know, oyaji... having you here was Misao's idea, not mine," the younger man growled.
Higashidani Kamishimoemon grinned up at his agitated son. "And I'm here because your lovely Misao-chan invited me," he replied, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "You certainly didn't think I'd come for *your* sake, did you?"
Sano clenched his fists and advanced on his father, only to be brought up short by Kenshin stepping in front of him. "Maa, maa, Sano," the red-haired man said, extending his hands in a placating gesture. "Your father is only teasing you. Surely you don't want a fight on your wedding day?"
"Hmph. Guess you're right," Sano grumbled, his black ceremonial kimono rustling as he resumed his restless circuit around the grounds of the old shrine. Kamishimoemon sighed and puffed his pipe.
"Never took him to be the nervous type," the old man said to Kenshin. "What, is he afraid his pretty one will change her mind after all?"
"Sano just wants everything to be perfect," Kenshin said, smiling as he remembered his own pre-wedding jitters. "He'll calm down once Misao-dono arrives."
Kamishimoemon chuckled. "She's quite a prize," he said, winking as he deliberately raised his voice. "Still hard for me to believe my no-account son ended up with such a good match."
"Why not?" Sano shot back as his wanderings brought him back near the two men. "I mean, stranger things have happened. Like my mother marrying you, for instance..."
Kamishimoemon laughed heartily at that. "Too true," he grinned, rising to his feet and slapping Sano on the back. "Your mother was a beautiful, gracious woman... why she picked an oaf like me, I'll never guess."
Sano smiled knowingly at his father. "Love is a strange thing," he said with a shrug.
"Aa," Kenshin agreed, winking at Kaoru as she hurried toward the group with Misako in her arms and an excited smile on her face.
"I just saw everyone leaving the Midori-ya," she said breathlessly. "Are the priests here yet?"
"They're preparing the place where the ceremony will be held," Kenshin replied, his eyes warm as he gazed at his wife. "You look lovely, Kaoru."
Kaoru blushed. "So do you, anata," she said shyly. She had regained her usual trim figure and was wearing the blue and white kimono Misao had brought from Kyoto many months ago, as Kenshin was wearing the clothes that had been Misao's gift to him. "Where are Kenji and Kintou?" she asked.
As if in answer, Kintou's clear, pealing laugh rang through the nearby woods, followed by Yahiko's exasperated shout --
"Dammit! Give that back to me right now, Kintou!"
The adults started laughing as Kintou came running into the clearing, clutching Yahiko's sandal to his chest and giggling gleefully. Yahiko, red-faced, was hopping after him on one foot, while Yutarou and Outa followed behind, doubled over with laughter. Tsubame was the last to appear, holding Kenji and stifling her own giggles.
Kenshin reached out and grabbed Kintou with trademark Hiten Mitsurugi Ryuu swiftness. "Got you!" he crooned in a singsong tone, making Kintou laugh and squeal with delight. Kenshin managed to pry the sandal from his son's hands by offering him a handful of his red mane in its place.
"Here you are, Yahiko," Kenshin said cheerfully, handing the sandal to Yahiko, who took it with sullen, muttered thanks.
"Don't be angry, Yahiko-kun," Tsubame said, smiling sweetly at the young swordsman. "Today is a happy occasion, ne?"
Yahiko smiled sheepishly. "Uhm," he nodded, admiring the way the dappled light illuminated Tsubame's light brown hair and delicate features. She sure looks pretty today... I'll have to tell her so later... when there aren't so many nosy people around...
As the others chatted and laughed, Sano breathed deeply, feeling at peace for the first time that day. It was his wedding day... the weather was fine... and he was surrounded by his friends and family. And soon he would be joined forever with the woman he loved with every fiber of his being.
Sano turned to his father, who was mussing Outa's hair affectionately, despite the 9-year-old's embarrassed protests. "You're right, oyaji," he said gruffly. "I've been acting foolish. There's no need for worry, is there?"
Kamishimoemon regarded Sano soberly. "Boy, why don't you go play for a minute while I talk to your big brother?" he said, swatting Outa on the behind and sending him scampering. Sano held up his hands as if to ward his father off.
"Matte! That wasn't an invitation for some deep father-son talk or anything," the younger man stammered.
"Too bad," his elder snorted. "Some occasions call for a little fatherly wisdom, so shut up and take it like a man."
Sano ground his teeth, wishing for the thousandth time that he'd lied when, as they planned their wedding, Misao asked him if he had any family still living. But considering how mad she was that I hadn't told her sooner... it's probably better that I told her the truth. It would've come out sooner or later...
"Look, Sanosuke, I know we've had our differences," Kamishimoemon said, puffing his pipe. "But I must say that you've grown up well, despite your street-rat lifestyle."
"Oi!" Sano snapped.
"Well, it's true, isn't it?" Kamishimoemon insisted. "Anyway... what I'm saying is, I know life's been hard for you. So by my thinking, your marrying Misao-chan is your reward. So stop worrying like you don't deserve this kind of happiness. You do. And so does she."
Sano stared at Kamishimoemon. "Not bad, oyaji," he said with a wry smile. "That even made sense."
"Good," Kamishimoemon replied, grinning in return. "Let's go see if those priests have managed to get rid of all the evil spirits around here."
Sano chuckled. "Obviously not -- we're still here, aren't we?" he smirked. The two men laughed as they headed for the clearing designated for the ceremony. As they spoke with the priests, the guests started making their way to the mats laid out for them on the ground. An excited voice called out --
"Sanosuke-niichan! Minna! She's coming!" Uki ran into the clearing, followed closely by Ayame and Suzume, while Genzai-sensei, Megumi and Tatsuya approached at a more sedate pace.
Kenshin took his place in front, standing between the small tables laid out for bride and groom. He bowed deeply to the priests, who returned the gesture solemnly. "This place is now cleansed," said the elder of the two.
"Arigatou de gozaru yo," Kenshin replied. The priests nodded as they took their places behind Kenshin, who motioned to Sanosuke. The groom swallowed and smoothed the front of his kimono before moving to stand next to his best friend. Kenshin smiled serenely at Sanosuke, murmuring --
"Daijoubu de gozaru ka, Sano?"
"Aa," the taller man replied, turning his head as he caught sight of the approaching bridal party. Okina came first, tugging his beard and nodding at Sanosuke before taking his place behind the bride's seat. Kuro and Shiro sat behind Okina... Shiro giving Sano a broad grin and a wink before dropping to his mat. Okon and Omasu settled on either side of the men, giggling as they watched Sano's eyes widen and his jaw drop.
Aoshi escorted Misao, who seemed borne aloft on a cloud of white. She had eschewed the customary veil, though she did wear the ceremonial bridal headdress, her hair swept up beneath it with numerous pins and combs. The white powder on her face highlighted her high cheekbones and dainty nose... the rouge on her lips emphasized their lushness. Her shining eyes met Sano's, and he forgot to breathe.
That splendid creature is to be my wife? Oh, Misao... you never cease to amaze me...
He licked his suddenly dry lips in anticipation. Misao's red lips curved upward in a dainty smile as Aoshi led her to her seat at the small table next to Sano's. Aoshi's eyes met Sano's gravely, and both men acknowledged each other with a brief nod. Sano knelt before his table, facing Kenshin solemnly.
"It is my privilege to open this ceremony whereby Sagara Sanosuke and Makimachi Misao will be joined in marriage before the gods," Kenshin intoned.
The priests began chanting and waving their plumed wands to rid the space of evil and call in fortune. Misao snuck a glance at her husband-to-be, so serious and handsome in his deep black robes. As she had requested, he was wearing his red silk headband -- she knew it was probably inappropriate, but she told him that it was so much a part of who he was that she couldn't bear the thought of him being without it during this most important of ceremonies. Her eyes misted as she remembered his fierce embrace and choked reply --
... Misao... I've never loved you more than I do right now...
Misao's resplendent image hung before Sano's eyes as the priests continued chanting offerings to the gods. His mind reeled back to the day she had returned to Tokyo... how he'd admired her from afar before realizing who she was... how lively and adorable she'd been with him after he recognized her. He later realized he'd begun falling in love with her that very day, though he had refused to acknowledge the strength of his feelings until weeks later, when he'd caught her crying in the garden the morning after the Akabeko was attacked. He'd told her as much when, much later on, she asked him when he had realized he was in love with her... and Sano's throat tightened as he remembered Misao's heartfelt reply when he asked her the same question --
... It was that same night. I didn't know at the time, but the real reason I was crying was because you were replacing Aoshi-sama in my heart. It frightened me, that you could have the same power to hurt me that he had... but when you treated me with such tenderness in the face of your own troubles, I knew things would be different with you. That's when I fell in love with you, Sagara Sanosuke... and I know now that the feelings we share are eternal...
Kenshin poured sake into the first of three cups set on the low table behind him. He handed the first cup to Misao, who grasped it with trembling hands. She drank three times, then passed the cup back to Kenshin, who set it on the table to refill it. Misao glanced sidelong at Sano as he took the proffered cup, his hands no steadier than Misao's had been. A thrill ran up her spine as she saw his lips touch the reddened imprint she'd left on the cup. She shivered as she imagined his mouth devouring hers, wiping all traces of her lip color away with a passionate sweep of his tongue.
Sano felt the blood rush to his loins as he tasted the sweetness of Misao's lip rouge on the rim of the sake cup. He pictured his hands pulling the ornaments from her hair... pushing the kimono off her shoulders... laying her onto their marriage bed. With a swift mental shake, he finished his third sip and returned the cup to Kenshin, who set it aside and filled the second cup, this time handing it to Sano first, then Misao. As Misao took her three sips, she thought she could almost taste Sano's lips on the cup... and the notion made her blush beneath her white face powder.
After the bride and groom had drunk from the third cup, completing the sansankudo binding ritual, they rose to their feet, turned and bowed to the assembly, which shouted in unison --
"Omedetou gozaimasu!"
........................
The wedding banquet at the Akabeko was a boisterous affair. Sake flowed like water as the guests raised toast after toast to Sano and Misao, who had changed from her wedding finery into a gray silk kimono patterned with pink sakura branches. As they heard each person's fond remembrances and best wishes for their future, the couple clasped hands, exchanging happy smiles.
Kenshin was one of the last to speak. He rose to his feet, clearing his throat. "All of you know Sano and I met under... less than friendly circumstances," he said, eliciting laughter and nods from the crowd. "And my first encounter with Misao-dono when was she tried to relieve me of my sword," he added, winking at Misao, who blushed as the laughter increased. Kenshin's own smile grew pensive as he continued.
"But in the years since, both have proven to be the truest of friends, without whom my life likely would have taken a different path... or ended... long before I found happiness with my wife and family." His voice caught as he declared --
"To Sagara Sanosuke and Makimachi Misao... may they enjoy as least as much happiness as Kaoru and I now share. Kampai!"
"Kampai!" the guests shouted, lifting their sake cups. Sano swallowed past the lump of emotion Kenshin's eloquent tribute had caused and glanced at his bride, who was dabbing her eyes gingerly with her sleeve. He squeezed her hand, wanting to embrace her but knowing such overt displays would have to wait until they were in more private surroundings. She smiled reassuringly, her eyes warm with affection. As they gazed at each other, they thought in unison --
Soon we will be alone... as husband and wife...
Their smiles widened in anticipation.
But as day faded into night, and the party showed no sign of winding down, the newlyweds began to despair of ever escaping. There were gifts to be received, greetings to be exchanged, drunken relations to be placated. Okina and Kamishimoemon took to each other as if they were long-lost brothers -- after opening their third jug of sake, they wouldn't let Sano rest until he agreed to join them in a drinking game. Normally, Sano would have cheerfully complied, but with every swig of sake he felt his hoped-for wedding night slipping further and further away.
"Sanosuke looks absolutely miserable," Kaoru whispered to Kenshin with a giggle.
"Aa," he replied with a chuckle. "I've never seen Sano drink sake so grudgingly." A sly smile replaced his usual good-natured expression. "I think we owe him an escape route... ne, koishii?"
Kaoru's eyes sparked with mischievous glee. "Leave it to me, anata," she murmured, squeezing his knee before rising gracefully and crossing the room. She approached Okon first, whispering in her ear. The older woman smiled knowingly and motioned to Omasu. Kenshin chuckled again, grateful that he wasn't the object of the women's scheming.
Misao, meanwhile, was becoming extremely agitated. Damn those old drunkards! How dare they steal Sano from me tonight, of all nights! She laughed politely at whatever joke Uki had told Tsubame and Yahiko, wishing with all her heart she could just grab Sano and drag him off to their wedding chamber. But there was no way Okina or Kamishimoemon would let them get away so easily.
They'll make a scene... embarrass us completely. I just know it! Chikusho... what are we gonna do?
She felt a hand squeeze her shoulder. "Misao-chan," Megumi said, her cinnamon-brown eyes alight with mischief. "I'm stepping out for a breath of air. Would you like to join me?"
Misao raised an eyebrow. "Uh... sure," she said, following the doctor toward the back of the restaurant. As they ducked behind the curtain, Misao heard Kaoru, Okon and Omasu pleading --
"O~kina! Higashidani-san! How about a little music? We'll sing backup with you... onegaiiiii?"
Misao managed to stifle her laughter until Megumi had spirited her unnoticed out the back door. "Wait right here," Megumi said with a foxlike grin, ducking back into the restaurant.
Not more than ten minutes later, Kuro and Katsu poked their heads outside... winked at Misao... and opened the door to reveal a grinning Sano. Misao heedlessly threw her arms around Sano's neck, kissing him before whispering --
"How?"
"We left a decoy in my place," Sano said, stepping back from Misao and pointing to his clothing... which looked exactly like the gi and hakama Shiro had been wearing. "Shiro was good enough to agree to stand in for me," he continued. "A quick clothing switch, a little work with his hair and no one knew the difference."
Misao burst out laughing "Shiro looks nothing like you!" she protested.
"Yeah, I know... he's not as tall and definitely not as handsome," Sano said with a broad wink at Kuro, who sniggered. "But those old coots are so drunk they can't even see straight... and they're too busy serenading everyone to care. They won't miss me until I'm long gone."
"Speaking of which..." Katsu said, waving his hand in a shooing motion. "You two better get out of here." He smiled at Sano and handed him a lantern. "You know where you're headed, right?"
"Aa. Doumo," Sano said as Misao gave each of the men a quick embrace and a kiss on the cheek, then disappeared with Sano into the night.
....................
"Here we are," Sano said, pulling Misao to a stop and pointing to a small cabin in the woods near the shrine where their marriage had taken place.
"Sano, how did you know about this place?" Misao gasped as Sano unlocked the door.
"It's Katsu's," he said, opening the door. "He built it when he had all that money from painting -- he said he likes to use it when he needs to get away from people for awhile." He beckoned to Misao. "C'mon... this is Katsu's wedding gift to us. He knew we'd get harassed if we stayed at the doujou or the Midori-ya."
"We'll have to thank him later," Misao murmured, taking Sano's hand and stepping over the threshold. Sano hung the lantern on a hook in the wall, where it illuminated the small space with its flickering light. Misao turned in a slow circle, taking in the carefully arranged flowers... the tea setting laid out near the open fireplace... and the opened futon, piled high with quilted covers. She also noticed a small door in the back of the room. She turned questioning eyes to Sano, who answered --
"That's the bathhouse."
"Katsu thinks of everything, doesn't he?" Misao said with a slow, sensual smile.
"Aa," Sano replied, his voice a low, pleased thrum. "We'll have time enough for that later. Right now, why don't I help you undress... my wife."
Misao's heart hammered crazily at Sano's last words. "By all means... honorable husband," she purred. "If you'll allow me to assist you as well."
Sano beamed as he took Misao in his arms. "Let's start with your makeup," he murmured before covering her rouged lips with his own.
.....................
Kenshin smiled sleepily at Kaoru as she finished tucking the children into the futon next to theirs. "It was a good day, wasn't it, koishii?" he said with a yawn.
"It was," she said, lifting the covers and sliding into bed. "Almost as fine as our wedding day."
Kenshin laughed quietly as Kaoru snuggled up to him. He put his arm around her and pulled her closer, whispering --
"I meant what I said tonight, Kaoru. If Sano and Misao-dono are as happy together as you and I, they'll have much to be grateful for."
"They will be," Kaoru said confidently. "I've never seen either of them so happy as they are when they're together. They're a good match."
"I remember when you didn't think so highly of their pairing," Kenshin observed teasingly, earning a protesting swat from his wife.
"Mou! You know Sano was a freeloader and a womanizer before he started seeing Misao-chan," Kaoru huffed. "You can hardly blame me for being skeptical."
"True. I was equally as uncertain as to whether Misao-dono would turn away from Aoshi," Kenshin mused. "Much had to change before she and Sano found each other."
Kaoru laid her hand over Kenshin's heart. "It was sort of the same with us, ne?" she said softly.
"Sort of," Kenshin agreed, kissing Kaoru's forehead. As his eyelids grew heavy, he heard Kaoru murmur --
"Times certainly have changed, haven't they, Kenshin?"
"Aa," he replied with a broad smile. "For the better, thankfully."