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.

25. Awakening

Another update. Work is hard and long. Home life is hard and long. Writer's block sucks. Think I've got that covered. Onto the chapter!

Chapter 25-Awakening

South Tokyo- Tanaka Residence

Megumi sat before Kyoshi Tanaka, studying the young woman's flushed features as she labored for breath. This was her client's first child and the doctor knew full well the girl was in great pain as she continued to push. "That's it Kyoshi-san. You're doing well. Keep pushing."

"It... hurts..." Kyoshi hissed between clenched teeth. "Ahh, Hiroshi... I can't..."

"Yes, you can," Hiroshi whispered as he sat behind his wife, offering physical support and encouragement. He reached down with his right hand, offering it to her, wincing a bit when his wife took hold and squeezed, his voice soft and comforting as he tried to ease her fear. "You're strong and brave, my Kyoshi...I know you can do this... so please... push..."

Kyoshi leaned heavily against her husband, her hand like a vice grip around her husband's as another contraction hit her and she began to push harder.

Megumi smiled inwardly at the young couple. It was highly unusual for a male that was not a doctor to be in the same room as a woman giving birth but Kyoshi had insisted and Hiroshi accepted without hesitation. Such love and happiness, in spite of pain, warmed the doctor's heart and she added her own encouragement. "That's it Kyoshi-san, keep pushing. You're doing wonderful!" Knowing the baby was nearly ready to be delivered, she called out for her "assistant," and demanded, "Where are the towels and hot water I asked for?"

"I've got it, relax!" Sano growled in reply, moving with surprising grace as he shuffled forward, the white apron draped around his front swaying with each step he made. The fighter held a large bowl in his hands and kept his grip firm to prevent the water from sloshing everywhere. He set it down beside the doctor, the towels clutched under his left arm pit falling as he did so.

Megumi sighed inwardly at Sano's lack of manners and medical decorum but reminded herself that it wasn't something the brawler was accustomed to helping her do. She focused her attention on Kyoshi, noticing the strain on her small body as she shook and the physician leaned forward, excitement in their voice as she spied what she was looking for. "I can see the crown! Just a little bit more! Push Kyoshi-san! Push!"

Sano felt an impending nervousness at what was to come and he wondered why. It's not like he was going to become a father or anything. Still... a life was about to be born... and the fighter felt the change in the air, stopping his pacing as a sudden wail filled the air and Megumi cried,

"Congratulations, it's a girl!"

The fighter saw the woman, Kyoshi, collapse against her husband and Sano tilted his head at the way Hiroshi supported her and kissed her crown. They seemed so happy... so joyful... was this how... husbands and wives acted with each other? Sano's gaze shifted and he watched Megumi as she carefully cleaned the infant's nostrils then bathed it gently before wrapping up the baby in a blanket. There was such tenderness in the doctor's actions and features that he found himself entranced.

Megumi handed the baby to Kyoshi, smiling as the infant gripped tightly to the mother then father's fingers.

"Look at her Hiroshi... she's so beautiful..." Kyoshi whispered, eyes tearing up as she held her baby for the first time.

"Just as you are beautiful, my Kyoshi." Hiroshi whispered, kissing the crown of his wife as he studied his daughter with pride and joy.

Megumi chanced a glance over to Sano, finding a rather enamored look upon his face, noting his was staring in her direction and she frowned. Why is he looking at me like that?

The brawler felt the doctor's gaze on him, catching the hint of displeasure in her eyes. Shit, she caught me staring! Heat flashed across Sano's face and he snapped his head to the side in an attempt to avoid her glare.

Megumi's eyes narrowed as she witnessed the fighter's reaction, not buying for one second his sudden interest in the far corner of the room. Just what's going on in that bone head of his? She that right now wasn't a good time to interrogate the fighter, the doctor set about helping Kyoshi clean up then carefully having her moved to more comfortable quarters. Once Kyoshi was settled, Megumi gave Hiroshi instructions on care for his wife and their newborn. After receiving a promise that Hiroshi would contact and secure assistance from female relatives in helping Kyoshi adjust to her life as a mother, the doctor and Sano then departed the Tanaka estate.

The pair began to make their way home, an uneasy silence growing between them and Megumi couldn't take it any more. "So... what was that earlier?"

"Huh?" Sano sounded, slowing his pace as the lady doctor did. "What was what, earlier?"

"That look you gave me," She clarified, a terseness creeping into her voice. "What was that about?"

"Oh that," He replied. "Nothing really. I was just..." He started then stopped, unable to voice at first his feelings.

But Megumi would not relent. "Just what?"

Sano said nothing for a few seconds, lightly kicking a stone in their path before answering, "I was... awed by you. At what all happened today..." He cast his gaze to the side, feeling self conscious as he continued. "You're really good at what you do. I guess I admire that about you is all."

Megumi quirked an eyebrow. "That's what doctors do, Sano. It's no big thing."

"Yeah, well, I couldn't do what you did. I was nervous as hell and all I did was fetch some water for you."

"You're being silly right now," Megumi chided lightly. "But that's nothing unusual for you."

Sano scowled, drawing his gaze back to her. "Damn fox-lady. Can't you ever take a compliment without getting snarky about it?"

She blinked as the fighter stalked past her. She picked up on the hurt in his voice, watching as he stomped off like a child. She sighed and shuffled forward, her pace quickening as she tried to catch up to the long stride of her companion. "Sano, wait up!"

"Why should I?!" Sano snapped over his shoulder. "So you can belittle me some more?!"

"No! That's not it! Just slow down will you?!"

He clenched his jaw but stopped, whirling around when he felt a hand touch his arm. "What?" He growled, eyeing her warily.

Megumi slowly drew her hand back to her side, lifting her gaze to meet his. She was unaffected by his growl, though her own voice was softer than her usual dismissive tone. "I wanted to... thank you for helping me today. And also... to apologize for hurting your feelings, earlier."

Sano tilted his head, relaxing a bit at her words. "Well... Okay then..."

Megumi let out the breath she'd been holding, knowing this was the fighter's way of accepting her apology.

A sudden rumbling sound reached the doctor's ears and she quirked an eyebrow, eyeing Sanosuke who flashed a sheepish grin.

"Sorry about that... stomach has a mind of its own you know?"

She knew full well the fighter's appetite. "Well, when we get back to the dojo, I'll make some miso soup for us to eat. I'm sure Yahiko and the others will be hungry as well."

South Tokyo- Food Market

Tsubame walked with purpose, clinging to the tofu basket as she weaved through the crowd that lined both sides of the market. The rays of the morning sun wrapped her warmth, fighting off the slight chill that still lingered in the air. The constant chatter of shoppers was comforting and she smiled as she crossed the street, coming to a stop before a short and lean man who beamed at her approach.

"Ah, ohayo, Tsubame-chan!" Joji Yoshito greeted as he eyed the girl then the basket in her hands. "I take it Tae-san is in need of some more of my delicious tofu?"

"Ohayo, Yoshito-san," Tsubame replied, giving a slight bow of her head before nodding at his question. "Hai. The cooks are in need of it for the miso soup so Tae-san was hoping you would have some silken tofu to purchase."

"I do indeed. Just hand me the basket there and I'll fill it up for you."

Tsubame lifted the basket to the vendor's outstretched hands.

Yoshito gently took the basket then smiled. "I'll be right back."

The girl watched him turn and head towards the back of the stall and her gaze became unfocused and her mind drifted, thoughts of Yahiko taking shape. The kendo student was a good friend and she often worried over him. Perhaps more than she should. And if she were being truthful... her feelings were... complex... in regards to him. A sudden blush crept across her cheeks and she wondered...did he like her in the same way that she liked him? Tsubame sighed then shook her head. I need to stop thinking like this.

"Here we are!"

Tsubame turned at the sound of Yoshito's voice, smiling happily as the man came towards her with basket in hand.

"One basket full of silken tofu, just for..."

Tsubame frowned as the man's voice dropped, noting the look of surprise and fear in his eyes and a sudden unease filled her as light became engulfed in shadow. She turned slowly, her gaze falling upon the form of a tall and hulking man. She craned her neck back and gasped. Yet it was not the stranger's severe features that made the hair on the back of her head stand on end but the weapons he was carrying and the menacing aura surrounding his monstrous frame. This man is dangerous. Run! Run before it's too late! Her mind screamed but her legs ignored the peril, too frightened to move out of fear of falling under his dark glare. She caught a flash of movement in his lips, her ears registering the low and threatening tone in his words as he growled out to no one in particular,

"Battosai... where is the Battosai?"

Battosai... that's... Kenshin-san. Tsubame thought, realization coming to her then. This man... he must have been...

"Hold it right there, criminal scum!"

Tsubame snapped her head to the left at the sudden intrusion of another man's voice, spying a group of police officers rushing towards them.

The brute pivoted around at the sound of his name, jaw clenched as he studied the uniformed men before him. "Battosai... where is the Battosai?"

More flashes of blue littered the market, the voice of panic and fear of the crowd rising as the second group shouted out instructions, "All citizens need to evacuate this area immediately to allow the police to gather up the criminals who have escaped central jail. Everyone return to your homes and remain there until told otherwise! Move! Now!" They demanded, tightening their hold on the bo staffs as they corralled the shoppers to vacate the market. The civilians complied, gathering their purchased wares as they made to exit. Yet Tsubame remained, too afraid to move, jumping when a gloved hand suddenly latched onto her right arm.

"Come on, miss, this way!"

Tsubame blinked as she came out of her stupor. Her legs were slow to move and yet she began to run, dragged along by a young officer whose face she did not recognize. They got about 10 feet before Hyougo turned towards them. A shot rang out, the bullet slamming into the police officer helping the girl and Tsubame felt something wet splash onto her arm. Shock took hold, wide eyes staring at the spot of red blooming along the policeman's back. The young man let out a shaky breath, his hold slipping from the girl's arm as he knees buckled and he dropped face first onto the ground.

Order gave way instantly to chaos, the crowd screaming in panic as they fled, running into carts and each other. The small and the old were knocked down in the melee as Hyougo took aim and fired at the police force who dare not retaliate with their own firearms with civilians in the area.

Tsubame continued to stare at the fallen officer until someone ran past her, knocking her to the ground and her survival instincts kicked in. The girl crawled away, seeking shelter behind the closest stall then she covered her ears in an attempt to silence the pain and sound of gunfire that lingered in the air. Her words were a desperate mantra in her head as she rocked back and forth. Please...somebody... anybody... stop this! Please!

Akabeko

"How is everything, Yahiko-kun and Misao-san?" Tae inquired as she knelt down beside the still eating patrons.

Yahiko looked up from his bowl, his mouth too stuffed with food to respond so Misao answered in his stead.

"It's very flavorful and quite filling, Tae-san. It truly does remind me of the Shirobeko."

Tae flashed a soft smile at the praise and a light laughter escaped from her lips. "Well my sister and I did have the same teacher after all."

"Tae-san! Tae-san!"

The sudden outburst of a panicked man's voice drew the attention of the entire restaurant. Tae-san's troubled gaze met the wild eyed one of the interloper and she rose, addressing him by name. "Yoshito-san, what's wrong?"

"There's..." He started then stop, voice hoarse as he gulped in air. "There's been a jailbreak and one of the escaped criminals entered the market demanding to know where the Battosai is!"

Misao and Yahiko shared a look, listening intently as the man continued.

"Some officers came to arrest him but the man fired at them! He even killed one!" Yoshito's eyes darted around. "Tsubame-chan... did she... did she make it back yet?"

Realization struck Yahiko first and the color drained from his face. Tsubame is in danger! I've got to save her! He jumped to his feet and took off, racing out into the street.

"Yahiko, wait up will ya?!"

The boy paid little heed to Misao's plea as he weaved his way through the escaping crowd. The pop,pop, pop, of gunfire erupted some distance ahead and Yahiko's legs pumped faster until he was nearly flying down the side street. He reached the edge of the market and made to round the corner only to feel a hand latch onto his shoulder to pull him back, barely dodging the body of a policeman that shot past them and crashed into a nearby stall with a sickening thud.

He whipped his head around, angry eyes meeting the focused ones of Misao.

The shinobi shook her head and moved in front, motioning him to follow her lead.

Yahiko relented, pressing his back against the wall of the nearby building just like Misao did, watching as the teen peered around the corner. "Do you see Tsubame?"

Misao ignored the impatient tone in the boy's voice, understanding his concern as she answered. "Give me a minute." She scanned the remnants of the civilians who remained in the market. There were a few huddled behind carts, too scared to move out of fear of being shot by the hulking man standing in the center of the road. The police force consisted of only a few men who charged forward the second the man's gun clicked, attacking with bo staffs that the larger male deflected, swatting the police away like flies. The ninja's gaze shifted and fell upon a girl who continued to rock back and forth. "I see her."

"Where?"

Misao shifted back, allowing Yahiko to slide forward. "About 20 feet ahead, on the left side of the street."

Yahiko poked his head around the corner, focusing his gaze in the direction the ninja indicated and relief filled him. She's still alive, thank Kami! The shouts of police drew his attention and the boy studied the brute who lifted an officer by the neck and slammed him into the charging brigade of worn down men who went crashing down onto the ground in a crumpled heap and recognition dawned on him. "That guy... he's one of the jerks that attacked our dojo!"

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah," He said with a nod. "Sano told me about him. He's obsessed with Kenshin. Keeps calling him Battosai and whatnot..." Yahiko expression grew hard. "He wants to kill Kenshin... we've got to stop him."

"Okay, but how do we go about it?" Misao asked. "That guy is strong as hell and in case you haven't noticed, he took out a bunch of policemen already with those guns of his."

Yahiko's eyes shifted back to the left. "We've got to save Tsubame first. After that, we can decide our next move," Without warning, the boy took off, charging straight for the girl, noting the brute was still fighting police and he skidded to a crouching stop beside his friend. "Tsubame? Are you okay?" When the girl didn't reply, he reached out, shaking her shoulders with firm but gentle motions. "Hey,Tsubame, snap out of it will you?! it's me, Yahiko!"

The girl felt someone grip her shoulders to shake her gently and she loped her head to the side, blinking slowly as a familiar face came into focus. "Ya..hiko? Is it really you?"

"Yeah, it's me. And I'm going to get you out of here, come on!" He took hold of her hand, pulling Tsubame to her feet, not allowing her to argue, racing as fast as he could and rounding the corner before Hyougo could notice them.

Misao watched from her cover, her eyes still locked on the fight between the police and the brute in the center of the street, wincing as Hyougo stopped a swinging bo staff, lifting the shocked officer off the ground before hurtling him into the charging force. The men in blue were being taken down one by one and the ninja knew it was only a matter of time before he'd be free to reload his weapon. "We've got to do something and fast before that bastard reloads," She murmured, turning to study the boy and the girl. Concern marred her features at the way Tsubame trembled and those red splotches on her kimono... was that blood? "Is she okay?"

"Yeah, I don't think the blood is hers," Yahiko answered, though his eyes remained focused on his friend. "It's okay now, Tsubame, you're safe I promise."

The girl continued to shiver, letting out a shaky breath as tears formed in her eyes. "I was... I was so scared! I couldn't move! That man... he... he came out of nowhere... and shot... he shot the policeman that tried to help me... Just... killed him right in front of me! I saw him fall... and not move... I couldn't... I couldn't run away!"

"Poor kid," Misao whispered. "That would traumatize anybody."

Tsubame clutched her kimono and added in a croaking whisper, "I prayed and prayed for someone to save me... and then you came..." Lifting her gaze to study the boy. "And I am safe... all thanks to you, Yahiko-kun."

The boy felt self conscious of the heat that crossed his cheeks and he waved off the praise. "Tsubame... it's no big thing... that's what men do... protect those they care about." He paused, looking over at Misao who met his embarrassed gaze with a somber one and he cleared his throat, returning his attention to his friend. "Listen, Tsubame, I have to go now but you need to run back to the Akabeko and let Tae know you're okay."

"Go?" Tsubame murmured, confused eyes studying her friend. "Where do you have to go? Why can't you come back to the Akabeko with me?"

"I can't," Yahiko replied quickly. "That guy out there is after Kenshin and I need to stop him."

"What?!" Tsubame gasped. "But you can't! He's too dangerous, Yahiko-kun! You'll die."

"I'll be fine, Tsubame," Yahiko replied then rose to his feet. "Go now while you still can. Misao and I will take care of this guy," He made to rush forward only to stop as Tsubame clutched his sleeve and pulled him back. "Tsubame... what is it?" He asked as he turned to face her.

She bit her lip but held her grip tight as she answered, "If you... If you go out there... there will be no one to save you... Kenshin-san is... not here with you... Sano-san is not with you... the police officer Saito-san is also nowhere to be seen... what will happen if you fall, Yahiko-kun?"

He listened, knowing he must go but loathe to just run away from her. "Tsubame... You're right... there's no one here to help me defeat this guy..." He answered softly, reaching out to rest his hand over hers. "but it is because there is no one else that I must fight..." Pride took hold and his back straightened, his voice growing stronger and with great purpose. "I am Kaoru's pupil... a student of the Kasshin ryu... the way of the sword that gives life... I must protect the weak... and the defenseless... that's why I'm going out there to beat this guy."

Tsubame looked down as the boy's hand rested over her own, tears still in her eyes when he carefully wrested her hand from the sleeve of his kimono. She felt heat in her cheeks, despite the circumstances when he continued to hold her hand.

The boy saw fresh tears forming and he whispered. "Don't cry, Tsubame. It'll be alright. I promise you."

"Yahiko, we've got to go now." Misao interjected.

He heard the anxious tone in the shinobi's voice and nodded, slowly releasing her hand from his own. "I have to go, Tsubame."

She felt the warmth of his skin leave her hand and she snapped her gaze up. "Yahiko, don't go..."

But the boy's voice grew firm and unyielding as he turned from her. "Run, Tsubame... Run and don't look back."

Tsubame reached for him but caught only air as the kendo student raced off and out of sight. Her arm dropped to the side and she fell to her knees, fear and pain seizing hold of her heart and her will. She knew she should run to safety but concern forced her to rise and the serving girl found herself moving to peer around the corner, hoping against hope that Yahiko could win this battle.

Oblivious to Tsubame's failure to run away, Misao and Yahiko moved swiftly behind a nearby cart, crouching down as they watched the last few policemen struggling to bring down Hyougo.

"How do you want to approach this?" Misao asked, keeping her gaze locked on the battle before her.

"I didn't bring my bokken with me so I'm going to need a weapon," He answered. "What about you?"

"I've got my kunai but that might not work against this guy."

The boy peered around, spotting a couple unbroken bo staffs. He quickly shifted and snatched them, handing one to the shinobi. "I've got an idea." He whispered his plan to Misao who nodded and took off in the other direction.

The air grew silent and Yahiko snuck a look around the cart, finding the last officer collapsed onto the ground.

Hyougo snapped open one of his handguns, swatting off several boxes of food displayed on the nearby table stall then lowered his weapon on the now clear space. He then began to yank bullets from the ammo belt strapped across his broad chest.

Knowing the brute's one hand was occupied, Yahiko seized the moment,leaping to his feet and he charged forward, bo staff outstretched before him.

The brute caught a flash of movement and he lifted his head, snatching up the partially loaded revolver, flicking it closed but before he could lift the weapon to squeeze off a shot, Yahiko had already closed the distance.

The kendo student let out a battle cry as he swung the staff down with all the force he could muster, the end smashing into the side of the gun, knocking it out of the surprised Hyougo's hand. "Now Misao!"

The shinobi struck from behind, swinging sideways and up, the solid wood smashing against the thick muscles of Hyougo's neck and somewhere in the recesses of the brute's brain he registered the blow to his neck. Yet there was no pain, no awareness of the damage, for Hyougo's mind was consumed with a burning obsession to end Battosai's life. Instead he emitted an annoyed growl, turning slowly to face the shocked features of Misao.

I hit him full on the neck! She cried silently as she backed away. He should have gone down! Just what the hell is this guy?!

Yahiko used the diversion to press his advantage, jumping up to strike Hyougo down but the brute turned sideways, blocking the attack with his arm. The boy's eyes widened, well within the madman's reach, crying out as the back of Hyougo's hand smashed into the side of his face, knocking him off his feet and sending him crashing through the swinging door of a market stall.

Tsubame watched in horror as Yahiko was struck down and fear gripped her mind. She had already witnessed what that brute was capable of... knew that Yahiko wouldn't last long against Hyougo. If I don't get help, Yahiko will die... but who... who will save him? The police were all knocked out and it was uncertain if other officers could make it to the scene on time. There had to be someone she could run to... someone who wasn't far away and then the answer hit her with enough force to make her jump to her feet. I know who can save Yahiko! The girl whirled around, tearing down the side street as fast as her legs could carry her, changing direction as she tore off and headed in the direction of Rakuninmura.

Tsubame wasn't alone in her fear for Yahiko. Misao had also witnessed Hyougo strike Yahiko and she rushed forward to try and help him only to skid to a stop as Hyougo shifted forward, his large form blocking the damaged entrance to the stall and cutting off her ability to aid the boy. The ninja fixed a level stare upon the escaped prisoner. She knew it wasn't going to be easy to bring down. But if I'm going to get to Yahiko I have no choice but to try. Tightening the grip on her weapon, Misao lifted her arms parallel to the ground, fluid in her movements as she began to spin the staff faster and faster, momentum lending power to her attack as she advanced upon her opponent then suddenly shifted her hands and swung in a sideways motion as she'd been taught.

Hyougo watched the twirling staff in confusion. The policemen he'd fought earlier had displayed none of the skill of this little female before him. The movements were precise but unpredictable and he wondered just who this girl truly was. A flash of wood streaked sideways and he braced for the attack, lifting his left arm to block, grunting in surprise at the staff slipped underneath and smashed into his rib cage.

Misao saw the larger man stumble at the blow and she pressed her attack, drawing the staff back to spin around, the weapon following as she swung upward, slamming the wood against the right side of Hyougo's head.

Flashes of red dotted Hyougo's vision as he reeled sideways. Curiosity morphed violently into rage now and he straightened his body, snarling when the girl drew back and jabbed the staff forward, the blunt end stabbing into his midsection. His hand snaked out with a sudden speed that belied his brawny form and he gripped the wooden stick, twisting it away from his body then yanked on it will all his strength.

Misao was startled by the brute's quick reaction and she gasped as her feet suddenly left the ground. Tossed into the air, the shinobi went flying, her lean form sent crashing into a nearby table stand. Pottery of all shapes and sizes exploded on impact, blanketing Misao in a myriad of colored shards as she collapsed onto the ground and grew still.

Hyougo glared down at the girl but made no move to finish her. For his goal was to find and kill Battosai and with no one left standing in his way, the escaped prisoner's path to revenge was now clear. But first there was the matter of reloading his revolvers. Moving away from Misao, the brute's gaze turned downward, scouring the ground for his lost weapon, the spare gun still tucked into the side of his pants.

Inside the stall, Yahiko's eyelids fluttered open, a scream of pain charging up the left side of his face and he groaned, rolling onto his back before shifting into a sitting position. His hand instinctively rose, fingers brushing against the heated skin of his injury and he winced. The sound of something crashing outside the now open entrance to the stall drew his attention and the memory of his fight with the brute flooded his mind. Misao's still out there! Could it be that she's...

Worry filled him and Yahiko grit his teeth, ignoring the pulsating ache along the side of his face as he searched for the bo staff. He spotted the broken remnants of the weapon and he reached out, snatching the larger section of the two then jumped to his feet. Adrenaline guided him and he rushed out, concerned eyes falling on the still form of Misao before morphing to a seething look as he snapped his gaze back to Hyougo. The escaped prisoner was bending down to snatch up the revolver Yahiko had knocked out earlier. A snarl rose from the bottom of the boy's throat and he charged forward, lashing out with a quick strike to the back of Hyougo's knees.

The madman felt the blow, stumbling from the attack but he refused to go down, his meaty hand already wrapped around the revolver, his finger on the trigger as he whipped around and fired.

Yahiko's eyes widened as the man whirled around to face him, his mind registering the danger and he dodged at the last second. Gunfire rang in his ears and he gasped at the sudden flare of pain on the right side of his face but there was no time to process this new assault. Instead he danced left then right, using his agility to barely avoid being gunned down and he counted in his head. One shot, two shots, three... until a clicking sound erupted in the air. Knowing the gun was empty, the boy took advantage and rushed towards the brute, recalling the lessons and moves Kaoru had taught him.

Remember Yahiko, that one of the most effective vital points to attack lies under the arms. A strike to that part of the body resonates throughout the whole, rendering the person paralyzed. If your life is in danger, do not hesitate to attack this point. It will bring down anyone, no matter how strong or how large they may be.

Hyougo saw the boy rushing towards him, the empty gun clicking as he squeezed the trigger and his expression hardened. The brat was now within his reach. I may not have any bullets in this gun but I can still use it to take care of you. Lifting his arm, Hyougo made to bring the grip of the weapon down on Yahiko's head only to flinch as his arm became trapped between the boy's crossed wrists. What the hell?

"Kamiya Kasshin Hawatari!" Yahiko roared as he countered the attack, stabbing the broken end of the staff into the armpit of Hyougo's left arm.

Hyougo tried to grab the boy but his hand would not cooperate and he fell backwards, suddenly unable to move.

Yahiko panted, staring down at the prone but awake form of Hyougo and he backed away, feeling the threat was over. Something wet and slick trailed down his neck and he frowned, reaching up to wipe it away. He drew his hand back, noting the red staining his fingertips and palm. The pain of his injuries roared now, the adrenaline fading and he grimaced, shifting his gaze over to the broken table stand where Misao struggled to stand and he shuffled over to her. "Misao!"

The shinobi shook off the debris, gripping the slotted window of the stall with her right hand. Her arm shook as she pulled herself up to her feet, fatigue draining her strength as she panted for breath. Misao turned her head at the sound of Yahiko calling to her. "Yahiko!" She stepped forward, wincing at the sudden burst of pain and she gripped her right side. Gingerly she traced her fingers along the site of injury, finding no unusual bumps and she sighed in relief. At least my ribs aren't broken but I'm going to have a hell of a bruise when this is all over.

"You're alive!" Yahiko sang as he came to a stop before the shinobi.

"So are you, I see," Misao replied, though lines marked her brow at the sight of Yahiko's bloodied and bruised face. "That guy really did a number on you, didn't he?"

"It's nothing," Yahiko waved off her concern. "But how about you? Anything broken?"

"No, just some bruises," She murmured, trailing her gaze over to the still form of Hyougo. "Is he out cold or what?"

Yahiko turned. "No. I don't think so. I just paralyzed him using one of the attacks Kaoru taught me."

Misao smiled, studying the kendo student with impressed eyes. "Well, when we get her back from Enishi, I'll make sure to give Kaoru a full report of your progress."

Yahiko looked back at the ninja and grinned only to scowl at the look of surprise that crossed Misao's face. "What is it?" He followed her gaze, pivoting around, eyes widening as he watched Hyougo rise to his feet.

"Battosai... Battosai... Battosai!" Hyougo roared, any semblance of sanity gone as he began to froth at the mouth, his hateful glare directed at Misao and Yahiko and he snorted wildly before charging at them.

Yahiko swung the broken staff in a futile attempt to keep Hyougo at bay but the large man ignored the blows, his hand snaking out to grab Yahiko's face and head and he yanked him back and away.

Misao gasped at the violence, rushing forward to help her friend only to cry out as Yahiko was lifted then hurtled directly into her path. She took the brunt of the impact, the boy's head smacking into her as she caught him, the pair tumbling down to the ground before going still.

Hyougo growled, snorting and panting in the middle of the street. No one stood in his way now. He turned and moved back, bending down to snatch up his revolver. He stalked over to another table on the opposite side of the street and he opened each gun in turn to begin the slow but methodical process of loading each revolver with his left hand. And once I'm done loading these weapons, I'll take care of Battosai... and anyone else who stands in my way.

Rakuninmura

Crows cawed unceasingly atop the dilapidated entrance to Rakuninmura, announcing the arrival of Tsubame who crossed the threshold into a place long abandoned by the citizens of Tokyo. This forgotten hold was eerily quiet and the serving girl slowed to unsteady steps, nervous eyes glancing side to side as she tried to navigate the minefield of broken down homes and debris. The stench was nearly overwhelming but she kept the bile down, moving cautiously forward. I have to find him. I have to find Kenshin-san.

"You! Hold it right there!"

Tsubame froze at the harsh command, panic creeping up on her as a group of men emerged from the wreckage of the broken down homes.

"This place isn't for outsiders like you," A short and scruffy looking male growled. "You best turn around now little girl before you get hurt."

"What are ya, deaf?" Another man growled, taped palms tightening on the staff in his hands. "Get out of here!"

"Ken... Kenshin-san... I need... to see him..." She managed to squeak out. "Please... It's urgent that I see him... where is he?"

"That guy?" The third man snorted, scratching at the stubble on his chin. "The samurai is just a shade of his former self... He's too far gone to help anyone, little girl."

Tsubame felt something rise in her chest, her voice growing stronger, even as she was frightened to death. "You lie! Kenshin-san will help me... he has to help me..." She marched forward, blinking as the men shifted to block her path. "Let me through! I need to see Kenshin-san!" She tried to rush past them but the men were quicker, the closest one grabbing the now struggling girl who beat her fists futility against his arm. "Let me go!"

"Do what the girl says." A new voice intruded on the scuffle and the man holding Tsubame turned, glaring at the larger male though he did as he was told.

"What good do you think her going to the samurai will do, Kuma?" The short man glowered.

Kuma said nothing, instead making a motion to the girl to go forward.

Tsubame wiped at her eyes but gave a slight bow of her head, rushing past the group and down the littered pathway and it was there, against the backdrop of a rickety old fence, that the girl found Yahiko's savior. "Kenshin-san!"

The redhead did not register the girl's voice at first, still too lost in his past to realize he wasn't alone. The images flew in his mind's eye. Losing his family, becoming a slave, his master's words and wisdom, learning the Hiten Mitsurugi style, joining the Imperialists, the fateful battle that scarred his face... that led him to Tomoe, his first love. The beautiful woman danced within the halls of his mind, the tragedy of their love... their future... killed by his own hand... more pain... more memories... and now another woman took form... younger but no less beautiful... "Kaoru..." He whispered. She became his world... she made him feel whole again... made him feel loved and wanted... Meeting her had brought more joy and more friends... Sano... Megumi... Yahiko... and more allies... Saito... Misao... Aoshi... And more enemies... Kanryu... Jin-e... Sojiro... Shishio... and... memories... he wanted to forget...

The white plum scent was overpowering him, the taunting voice of Enishi guiding him to the truth.

Follow the scent, there lies the answers you seek, Battosai...

Images swirled and now Kaoru was dead... dead at his feet... his answer.. what was his answer... what was the answer? How could he atone when the one he loved was gone?

"No more," He whispered, drawing further into himself. "I'm tired... so tired..."

"Kenshin-san, Yahiko is in trouble!" Tsubame pleaded, moving closer to the samurai. "He's fighting a madman in the food market near the Akabeko! He's trying to keep him from finding and killing you!" She bit her lip, lowering her gaze as she stammered, "But Yahiko... he's... he's not strong enough... the man is too big... and I saw... I saw Yahiko go down..." Tears formed once more in the girl's eyes, her voice and expression desperate as she cried, "Please Kenshin-san... Please help Yahiko... save him before he dies... Please I beg of you!"

Kenshin lowered his head, clutching his sakabato as if it were a shield.

"It's as I thought, your voice can't reach the samurai, " Kuma's voice intruded and he shook his head, gently reaching out to touch the girl's shoulder. "Come on, kid, I'll escort you back to the entrance.

"But," Tsubame whispered, still addressing the redhead. "But if you don't help... Yahiko... He'll die!" She shouted, shaking off Kuma's hand to rush closer to the samurai. "You have to help him, Kenshin-san. Don't you care if Yahiko lives or dies?! He believed in you! Why can't you understand that?! So please, please save him! Save Yahiko!"

Another hand reached out to rest on the girl's right shoulder and Tsubame lifted her gaze to find a bearded old man staring down at her.

"That's enough, little one," Oibore murmured, lifted his bespectacled gaze over to Kuma. "Please make sure she makes it out safely, Kuma."

"You got it." The younger man replied with a nod. "Come on kid, I'll lead you out of here."

Tsubame dropped her shoulders, her voice softer now as she whispered, "Please... Please... Please... help Yahiko... Please save him..."

Oibore watched the group leave then sighed, shifting to sit beside the redhead. "Whew, what a bunch of commotion today, eh?"

But it wasn't the old man's voice Kenshin heard. It was the plea of a child... a child in need of help. Save Yahiko... save him... save him before he dies... Kenshin's mind was still in a fuddled mess but his heart... his heart was starting to awaken and he clutched the chained saya of his sakabato, a growing heat in his voice as he growled. "I told them... I'd had enough... I told them I was tired... that I didn't want to fight anymore... I told them this... and they refuse to leave me alone."

Oibore listened, shifting his gaze up to the clouded sky. "Are you aware of why this place is called Rakuninmura, samurai-san?" He began. "It's because your past doesn't matter. Be you sinner or saint, we won't turn you away... but there is a price to be paid if you live here... do you know what that price is?"

Kenshin remained quiet but the old man could tell he was listening... really listening... for the first time since his arrival and so he continued,

"The price is you must throw everything away. Not just lose it... you have to throw it away... all of it... because if you don't, everything you never gave up will always come back to you in the end."

Throw everything away? Throw away all that I am? Kenshin looked down at the saya still gripped tightly in his hand. Could he do this? Could he really walk away from everything? Could he give everything up without a fight? His eyes began to clear, reason returning to him but the question still remained. I've tried... I've racked my brain but it's no use. I can't find it... So what is the answer? How do I atone for all the crimes I committed as a hitokiri? I must know! I need to know the answer!

Oibore lowered his head and turned his gaze, studying the samurai and the way he held on tight to the sheathed sword. He could tell the man was waking up. A little more nudging and he will finally understand. "Even with you on the brink of giving up, you still won't let go of that sword, samurai-san. Don't you wonder why that is? I'll tell you what I believe the reason is. Your body and soul may be worn down, beaten, and tired from life, but there is something that you cannot bring yourself to throw away and that, my friend, is the answer to the truth you seek."

Truth... what is the truth? What is it I cannot throw away? Kenshin wondered, studying his sword more closely and he heard it then, his own voice in his head and he closed his eyes to listen.

His youth: There are people suffering all around me, I cannot ignore them.

After meeting with Kaoru the first time: What Kaoru-dono says is idealistic and spoken from one who has never stained their hands with blood. A sword is a weapon. Kenjutsu is the art of killing. No pretty words can hide this fact... but I find Kaoru-dono's words more comforting then the sad truth.

His battle with Shishio: You believe the weak are nothing more than food for the strong but you're wrong. The strong are not here to feed off the weak but to protect them!

And now he saw the two women in his life. The women he loved,struck down in their prime. Because he wasn't able to save them. And yet... and yet... he wanted to.. he wanted to protect them. And the answer... yes the answer... The only thing I can do... is to protect the happiness of those who remain... and aid those in need of help.

Oibore watched as the redhead lifted the saya and tilted it, smiling a bit as the samurai grasped the hilt of the sword and he reached out, scooping up the plum perfume. "I believe we've lived enough in the past," He murmured, stuffing the cork back into the glass bottle. "Now that you have your answer, samurai-san, those who looked up to you, believed in you, and never gave up on you are awaiting your return."

With these last words, Kenshin gripped the saya tightly, yanking the hilt back with enough force to break the chains that locked it away. A gleam of steel sparked, reflecting the samurai's determined eyes and the redhead rose, stuffing the saya in his obi before rushing down the pathway and out of Rakuninmura.

Oibore remained seated, turning his head as Kuma walked over then joined him.

"So he's left then?"

"Hai, he has."

Kuma took a puff from the cigarette dangling in his mouth. "Hmph... so that punk fighter, the doctor, the boy, and the little ninja all came talking of revenge but couldn't get the samurai to move. Yet a little girl with tears could?"

"That's because revenge isn't samurai-san's truth. They could not reach his heart that way," Oibore explained, his voice growing softer. "But if someone came along and asked for his help because of a great need, then the samurai would wake up and answer," The old man shifted his gaze to the the broken chains. "And in that answer, he would break free of his bonds and rise again." Sweat beaded on his forehead and he took off his hat, revealing a pronged golden hairpin with red beads and metal strands on the end sticking in the back of his hair and Kuma quirked an eyebrow.

"Hmm... first it was perfume and now a bira-bira kazashi. Taking a fancy to ladies trinkets now, Oibore?"

The old man smiled and reached up, pulling the hairpin out of his hair. He looked down, studying the kazashi with open fondness. "Heh... I suppose I have..." He twirled the hairpin in his hand for a few seconds, memories calling to him and he lifted his hand, sliding the kazashi back in place then rose slowly to his feet.

Kuma watched the old man stand up, voice and features curious as he asked, "Where are you going now?"

"Kyoto." Oibore answered. "It's been a while and I miss visiting my daughter."

"Oh? I didn't know you had family to go back to."

"I don't," he murmured, a touch of sadness in his voice that he quickly stifled. "I'm visiting her grave."

Understanding lit up Kuma's features. "Then that kazashi..."

"It was hers, yes." Oibore finished for the younger man.

Kuma didn't want to pry so he changed the subject. "So, how long will you be gone this time?"

"Oh, a while I guess. Big cities can be a bit overwhelming for people like us but I should be fine."

"That's because you get along with everyone." Kuma replied with a snort.

The old man smiled. "True... it is my best talent... perhaps my only one."

"Yeah, you were pretty nice to the samurai guy when he was here."

Oibore lifted his hat and slid it onto his head. "Well, that's because he was special." After all, he was my daughter's husband who held her during her dying breath and heard her final words.

Kuma caught the man's distracted expression and he wondered just what was going on in the old man's mind. "So uh... do you think the samurai will get there in time?"

Oibore blinked slowly, coming back to the present and he nodded as he began to walk down the path that led out of Rakuninmura. "Do not worry. Now that he's awake, samurai-san won't let that girl down."

One the road leading out of Rakuninmura

Tsubame ran with slumped shoulders and a heavy heart. She'd tried so hard to get help for Yahiko but Kenshin had not moved... had not heard her pleas. And now all she had was prayer. Please don't die, Yahiko, please!

A sudden gust of wind swirled through and the girl stopped. A flash of red caught her eye and she turned her head, tear soaked eyes widening as Kenshin raced past her, heading in the direction of the food market.

He woke up! Her mind cried out with joy, relief filling her as she took off after the rurouni, knowing that if anyone could save Yahiko, it was Kenshin.

South Tokyo- Food Market

Hyougo flicked the second revolver shut. His job of reloading both weapons had gone off without anymore interference from police or the two brats that lay still in the center of the road and so he tucked the pair of guns into the waistband of his pants. Now I can leave here and continue to search out the Battosai.

Yahiko stirred, groaning at the pulsation of pain around his cranium and he sat up slowly, eyelids opening then clenching shut at the wave of dizziness that swirled in his head. Kami that hurts! He drew in several breaths, letting them out slowly until the nausea and vertigo subsided. Opening his eyes once more, the boy blinked to clear his vision, an image appearing and he gave a start of surprise to find Misao lying beside him. "Misao!" He croaked out before crawling over to her. Yahiko reached out, his hand resting on her shoulder and he shook it gently. "Misao? Misao can you hear me?"

The girl groaned in response but did not open her eyes and the boy's gaze drifted up to the bloody bump on the shinobi's forehead. Memory returned, his mind making the connection to Misao's current condition and he reached up to touch the back of his head, grimacing as his fingers brushed against a solid knot of bruised flesh. She must have been knocked out when that guy threw me into her. Speaking of which... His ears picked up the sound of metal clicking shut and the boy snapping his head over to the left, spying the form of Hyougo clicked shut a revolver, and he instantly regretting the action, gritting his teeth as flashes of red swirled in his eyes, mingling violently with the thunderclap of pain exploding in his brain. But he could not wait out the storm raging in his head. Not when his enemy was attempting to get away. I've got to stop this guy. I have to stop him before he gets to Kenshin!

Yahiko looked around for the remnants of his broken weapon, spotting the wooden stick a few feet away and he crawled forward, snatching it up with his bruised hands. The boy shifted the weapon perpendicular to the ground the jabbed it into the dirt, using it as leverage as he pulled himself upright. His legs shook but held, watching as the brute began to walk away and he shouted out in a voice as heated and fierce as the dark look in his eyes, "Hey, where do you think you're going?! We're not done here yet, ugly!"

Hyougo slowed to a stop, twisting his head to peer over his shoulder, scowling at the sight of the bruised and battered child who dared to challenge him in the center of the street. "You are not the Battosai." He growled dismissively then returned his focus forward and began to walk away once more.

"I may not be the Battosai, but there's no way I will let you hurt Kenshin!" Yahiko snarled as he lifted and pointed his broken staff at Hyougo. "Let's go!" He rushed forward, the muscles in his legs screaming in protest with each step as the kendo student closed the distance between himself and the brute.

Hyougo heard the boy's feet pounding against the dirt road and he reached down, gripping a revolver and he pivoted around, lifting the gun up and he took aim at the charging form of Yahiko. His finger curled around the trigger, too absorbed in trying to shoot the boy to see the rising form of Misao. A strange whistling noise fluttered in the air and the brute felt a sudden stabbing pain burst in his left shoulder which threw off his shot and the bullet zipped harmlessly past his opponent. He shot again, the bullet whizzing past the boy's head and Hyougo growled in frustration.

Yahiko saw the metal lodged into the madman's left shoulder, recognizing it as kunai. If I can hit those, I can stop him from using his left arm period. He dodged another shot then leapt upward, the stick held high over his head, now within reach. With the last of his strength, he swung downward only to gasp as Hyougo lashed out, the side of the gun smashing into his side and Yahiko crashed into the ground. The impact was jarring and he cried out, the stick slipping from his grasp as he skidded to a stop. A shadow loomed over the boy and Yahiko looked up with dazed eyes to find Hyougo staring down at him.

Misao's eyes widened at the sight of Hyougo hovering over the boy. Her kunai attack had affected the brute's aim. But there was no way he could miss at such a close distance. Kami, I have to do something! She gripped her side and rushed forward, though the effort caused her to stumble, her voice shrill with horror as she cried, "Stop! Stop it! Don't shoot him!"

Hyougo ignored Misao's plea, staring down at Yahiko with a crazed look in his eye.

Yahiko blinked slowly, his mind registering the barrel of a gun pointed down at his head and he tried to rise, to defend himself but his body was worn out. No... I can't... give up.. I can't give up yet... Kenshin... I have to protect...

Hyougo mouth contorted grotesquely as he curled his index finger around the trigger of his gun. He wasn't going to miss this time.

A sudden blur of steel slammed into Hyougo's left hand, sending the revolver flying through the air. More flashes of steel sparked, lightning quick strikes to his legs, sides, arms and neck driving him back from his fallen prey and he gasped as the tip of a blade jabbed against his heart, knocking him violently back and onto the ground.

Misao skidded to a stop, shock and surprise crossing her features at the sight that met her gaze. I don't believe it... it's... "Himura!"

Kenshin stood protectively in front of Yahiko, his hardened gaze locked on Hyougo though his voice was softer as he addressed the boy behind him. "Yahiko, are you alright?"

The shadow had passed over Yahiko, light once more filling his vision and his expression was a mixture of awe and joy as his ears registered the familiar sound of Kenshin's voice. "H.. Hai... I'm... okay." He answered, the pain and fatigue of his body forgotten as he sat up and looked upon the man with relieved eyes.

"Good. Now then, you need to go over to Misao and stay there, alright?"

"Are you sure?" Yahiko asked, rising to stand on his feet.

"Hai. I will handle this guy. Do not worry. Now go."

The boy did as he was told, shuffling past the rurouni and the slowly rising Hyougo.

Kenshin watched Yahiko move to safety, features hardening as he met the angry glare of Hyougo.

"Battosai... You finally came... Now I can finally kill you and end this." The brute snatched the other revolver from the waistband of his pants and squeezed of a series of shots.

Kenshin dodged the bullets, knowing the kunai in the man's left shoulder would render his shots off target and he shifted sideways, swinging out and upward, the sakabato smashing against the stump of Hyougo's right hand. The redhead spun around then behind and away from his opponent, free from the brute's range.

The madman's face glazed with shock at the familiar sensation of pain at the sight of the attack and he stared down at the bandaged stump of his right arm. Memories flooded Hyougo's mind, drawn him back to the moment he'd lost his hand. His vision cleared, the madness fleeing in his eyes as his senses returned to him. The large man kept his back turned to Kenshin, lowering the gun to his side as he remained still, his voice gruff as he spoke. "You stole a warrior's death from me. You must kill me now. It is your duty to finish this."

"I cannot," Kenshin replied then turned to study the back of Hyougo. "No matter what the reason may be, I will never kill again."

Hyougo's jaw clenched. "I will not accept that answer!" He snarled, pivoting around to face the rurouni. He lifted the gun, pointing it directly at Kenshin. "If you do not kill me now I will kill everyone here with what bullets remain!"

"I won't let you!" Yahiko shouted, coming up beside Kenshin.

"Yahiko get back!" The red head croaked out with as much force as he could muster, holding his sakabato up to block the boy from progressing any closer to Hyougo.

The kendo student stopped but did not relent in his words. "I can't claim to know anything that went on between you and Kenshin during the Bakumatsu. But I know that samurai hating other samurai is wrong! You talk about honor but you use a gun to kill innocent people! All in the name of revenge! Where is the honor in that?! Is it just an empty word to you?! If you cannot see beyond your past... If you cannot see what you've become.. then I will fight you!" The boy shifted the broken staff into his left hand, lifting it past Kenshin's sword and pointed it at Hyougo. "Left to left if I need to!"

Something in the boy's lecture touched Hyougo and he sensed a great pride and strength in the young man. The brute lowered his weapon, his voice growly though it carried no trace of the madness that had consumed him for 10 years. "Kid, what is your name?"

Yahiko's face flushed with indignation. "I'm not a kid! I am Yahiko Myojin! A samurai of Tokyo! So answer me, do you want to fight or not?!"

Hyougo's shoulders slumped and he tossed the revolver to the side. His wounded left arm now dangling at his side. "I was wrong to do this, I see that now. I thought the pride of the samurai had died at the end of the war but I now know that it still lives..." He looked over at the boy, voice growing softer. "It lives in you, Yahiko Myojin." The brute shifted his gaze to the sound of boots marching down the street, spying a group of armed policemen and he sighed. "I have lost. I accept that and all that follows."

Kenshin watched as Hyougo walked past them to surrender himself to the police before turning towards the boy. He reached out, resting his bruised hand gently on his friend's right shoulder. "You did well today, Yahiko. I know..." His features turned pained as he whispered the name of his lost beloved, "Kaoru... would've been proud of you today. Just as I am proud of you."

Yahiko blushed at the praise and looked away in embarrassment, the mention of his teacher's name drawing his attention and he couldn't hold back the truth any longer. "There's something I need to tell you, Kenshin... Kaoru is..."

But the redhead could no longer hear the boy. The adrenaline that had pumped through his veins was gone, replaced with bone weary fatigue and he surrendered to the seductive call of sleep, legs buckling as he began to fall.

Yahiko felt the rurouni's hand slip from his shoulder and he turned, eyes widening in alarm as the redhead collapsed onto his knees. "Kenshin!" The boy cried, reaching out to grab the older male, trying to pull him upright but the samurai was too heavy to lift.

"Himura!" Misao shouted, rushing to the red head's side. She wrapped her arm around his waist, looking over to Yahiko as she nodded and together they lifted him up. "He's out cold." The shinobi stated, looking at the slack features of the rurouni.

"We've got to get him back to the dojo." Yahiko replied, taking hold of Kenshin's left arm to sling it over his shoulders.

Misao nodded, doing the same with the redhead's right arm and together, they began to walk, dragging the samurai with them.

"Man, you'd think for a small guy he'd be a hell of a lot lighter than this." She grumbled, wincing at the stitch that flared up along her injured side.

They caught movement ahead of them and they stopped, the pair blinking as a young officer stood before them. "Excuse me, I don't mean to intrude but it looks like you're in a bit of trouble," He began, his features and tone friendly and helpful. "If you'd like, we can transport you and Himura-san wherever you need to go."

Yahiko and Misao looked at one another then back at the officer. "That would be great."

The policeman smiled and turned, calling out, "Bring another cart!" He stood aside as two officers dragged a wooden cart forward then stopped. He helped the pair lift the rurouni up and onto the cart and watched as Yahiko then Misao jumped on to join their unconscious friend.

"You should be all set." The policeman said, backing away only to stop as Yahiko called out,

"Hey, wait a minute! What's you're name? And how do you know about Kenshin?"

"Ah, my apologies," The young man replied, taking off his cap for a head bow. "Shinichi Kosaborou is my name. A rank five officer in the Tokyo Police." He answered then straightened his frame. "As to the matter of your friend, Himura-san is well known and respected among many of the police. Even Lieutenant Saito-san has praised his strength in battle."

The mention of Saito made Yahiko curious and he asked, "Your boss would have been useful in battle today, so how come he didn't show up to take care of that Hyougo guy?"

Kosaborou ignored the accusing tone in the boy's words, his own voice calm as he answered. "He headed into Yokohama this morning to continue the investigation into Enishi Yukishiro's whereabouts."

"Did he go alone?" Misao asked, her suspicions confirmed when the officer replied,

"Well, I wasn't privy to any real information but I did see him leaving with officer Cho-san and a tall stranger dressed in unusual clothing."

The shinobi shared a look with Yahiko. Well, that would explain why Aoshi-sama and Saito-san didn't show up to help today. She thought as the cart began to move. I only hope they find something that will lead us to Kaoru.

Yokohama-Enishi's Hideout

Aoshi walked behind Saito and Cho as the trio passed through the open but guarded gate of the three story mansion once rented by Enishi Yukishiro. "I see you still have officers posted despite the lack of any recent criminal activity." He commented as he took stock of the grounds surrounding the rental property.

"This place is still considered a crime scene," Saito answered as they approached the entrance door to the front of the house. "And offenders often return to the scene of the crime."

"So you believe Yukishiro may return here?" Aoshi asked, though he already knew the answer.

"No," The policeman replied, his jaw flexing a bit as he added, "But I won't have anyone destroying possible evidence by tramping around willy-nilly."

Cho grumbled. "I told ya, I didn't find anything in this house."

"Let's see if our shinobi friend here can succeed where you failed." Saito quipped.

The blond swordsman made a face at the insult but kept quiet, entering the house when the guard opened the door. Saito and Cho remained on the ground floor, watching as the ninja ascended the stairs and disappeared.

Aoshi moved methodically from room to room, studying the hallways with great interest, completing his sweep through the top two levels of the mansion before returning to the ground floor.

"Well?" Saito asked in a sharp tone. "Did you find anything useful?"

"Not yet." Aoshi said in a detached tone, moving past the two officers towards an enclosed hallway on the left side of the room. He looked in both directions for a few seconds before heading down the path to his right first. Each step was slow and deliberate as he walked down to the end before turning slowly and repeating the process down the left side until he reached a dead end. Wrinkles formed on his brow, his gaze curious as he studied the wall and murmured. "Odd..."

"What's odd?" Saito asked, coming to a stop behind the shinobi.

"This hall," Aoshi replied, his gaze still focused in front of him. "It's shorter than the other side. Why is that?"

"Shorter?" Cho commented. "How you figure?"

"By paces," Aoshi explained in a matter of fact tone. "The right side of this corridor is longer than the left, yet the design of this house is perfectly rectangular. There are no additions sticking out through the back so why is this particular point so short?" He went silent, studying the wall intently before at last reaching out, trailing his fingers along a section of ornate wallpaper as if searching for something.

"What's he up to?" Cho whispered, looking over at Saito who shook his head, his keen eyes watching the shinobi's every move.

Aoshi's fingers brushed against a very slight indentation and his hand froze. Thoughts began to form in his mind and he tested his suspicions, using firm and consistent pressure until a sudden clicking sound echoed in the hall.

Aoshi backed up as a section of wall popped open a sliver.

"Well I'll be." Cho murmured in surprise.

"A pressure locked door," Saito commented, his gaze shifting from the wall over to the shinobi. "How did you know this was here?"

"I didn't know for certain," Aoshi answered. "But it's common practice for ninja to hide things in plain sight and given that Gein is a former onmitsu, it stood to reason he would have a place to conduct his projects in secret." His hand gripped the corner of the door, tugging it open slowly and a whiff of stale air shot out into the hall.

Cho's features scrunched up at the odd smell and he backed up, holding his hand over his mouth. "What the hell is that?"

"Death." Saito answered, sharing a look with Aoshi who studied the darkened portal with troubled eyes.

"We're going to need some light to investigate."

"I think I saw a kerosene lamp in the main room." Cho offered.

"Go get it." Saito ordered and the blond complied, stalking off and returning a moment later with an ornate bronze and porcelain lamp.

Saito reached out and lifted the clear glass shade. He handed the object over to Aoshi then drew out a small box of matches from the right pocket of his uniform coat. With a quick flick, the match sparked into flame and the officer lit the wick, turning the side knob down so the flame was low. He turned, holding his gloved hand out to the shinobi who placed the glass shade into Saito's palm. Slipping the cover back on, he turned the knob forward, the flame now alive and dancing brightly within the confines of the etched glass. He took the lamp from Cho and addressed the two men. "Let's see what's downstairs, shall we?"

Aoshi nodded, letting Saito take the lead with Cho bringing up the rear and the three men descended down the narrow stairwell.

The smell of decay grew the closer they got to the darkened abyss but still they pressed on, until they had reached the bottom of the stairs. Saito swept the lamp side to side, the light chasing away shadows, revealing shelving, a desk, and bunch of cutting and other odd instruments resting upon a darkly spotted wooden table. Saito walked over to get a closer look, his eyes identifying the source of the odd colored markings upon the wooden surface. "Blood... and lots of it... rather old as well."

Aoshi shifted off to the right to study the various glass jars, noting the odd looking masses of material as he commented. "These jars are filled with human organs."

Cho wrinkled his nose, doing his best not to gag at the stench reeking within the stuffy room. "What the hell went on down here? It looks like some kind of deranged autopsy took place."

"It seems Gein was experimenting." Saito stated.

"More like creating." Aoshi corrected, his focus on the slick trail of red leading away from the table towards the large barrel tucked away in the far corner.

Cho looked around, focusing his attention to the left and he walked over to the desk pressed against the stone wall near the stairwell. He reached out to pick up a piece of paper then read the contents, quirking an eyebrow as he called out, "Hey Saito, come take a look at this."

"What is it?" The policeman asked, stalking over to stand to the blond's left.

Cho handed the paper to his boss who frowned.

"So that's how Gein knew what to use to make Kamiya-san's death appear real." Saito murmured, studying the other papers spread across the surface of the desk before lifting a life-like artistic rendering of Kaoru. "But there still isn't anything here that indicates where Yukishiro went."

"You're wrong."

Saito turned at the sound of Aoshi's voice. "How so?"

"The answers you seek are here." The shinobi replied and reached out, crouching down to trail his hand down the side of the barrel.

The police officer moved closer, bringing the lamp with him and at last his eyes saw the same thing the shinobi did. Two vertical symbols of a very distinct style similar yet different from Kanji. "It's Chinese." He murmured. "But what does it say?"

"Xuě chǐ." Cho's voice chimed in.

The two men looked up to stare at the blond who glared down at them, features and tone defensive.

"What? Ya think just cause I'm not some elitist snob I never learned anything?"

"Alright, so you know some Chinese," Saito begrudgingly conceded. "But what exactly does xuě chǐ mean?"

"Well now, that's the funny thing, isn't? It means to take revenge for a past insult. Which given our knowledge of this Yukishiro guy is rather fitting don't you think?"

"So he labels barrels with his calling card of revenge?" Saito commented, not quite believing what Cho was saying.

"No," Aoshi said, drawing his companions attention back to him. "It's not that the barrels are named revenge... but rather they come from something carrying the name xuě chǐ." The ninja rose, dusting off his legs. "And what would else but a ship would have the names pressed on their cargo?"

"So the Chinese writing..." Cho murmured.

"Can mean only one thing," Saito interjected as he looked directly at Aoshi. "Yukishiro's returned to his base of operations in Shanghai."

Aoshi moved towards the stairwell. "We need to make arrangements for travel as soon as possible."

"I'll see what I can do." Saito said, turning when Cho asked,

"Are ya seriously going to Shanghai?"

"Yes," The policeman answered. "And we're going to need someone to serve as an interpreter so you're coming along, too."

Cho studied his boss with irritated eyes. "I don't have a choice in the matter, do I?"

"No, you don't."

The blond swore under his breath but complied, heading to the stairwell as he followed Saito and Aoshi up to the ground floor.

The three men exited the mansion, making their way towards the train station that would carry them back to Tokyo with Aoshi in the lead. The shinobi's expression was grim, his own mind consumed with various possibilities of why Yukishiro had kept Kamiya-san alive. Was it to add to the torture for Battosai once he found out she was alive? Did he plan to use her in some way that would hurt her? Or was it something simple as being unable to actually kill a woman? Whatever the reason, they had to leave Tokyo and soon before something bad happened to the girl.

Shanghai, near Chongming Island

The Xuě Chǐ sailed under cover of night, guided by a series of flaming torches that moved in a pattern of a fire wyrm along the coastline, before coming at last to a stop and the ship changed course, gliding into the harbor before dropping anchor a few hundred yards from the shore. Enishi emerged from below deck and cast his gaze out towards the flicking fire that illuminated his welcome party. There, surrounded by four rather large men, stood a familiar figure dressed in high end Chinese clothing and displeasure filled the white haired man. Hoshin. He snarled silently. The arms dealer had hoped to avoid his second in command until after he had offloaded his precious... cargo. But I should have known he'd show up, nosy bastard that he is.

"Ah, I see our little friend has decided to greet us tonight, what an honor."

Enishi allowed the wisp of a smile at the sarcastic tone dripping in Gein's voice. "So it would seem."

"Are you sure you want to bring the girl out here with him around?"

"I had hoped not to, but now I have little choice," He answered, turning around to face the ninja. "Have the others gather their things and come up to the top deck as soon as possible. And bring Kamiya-san up as well. I'm sure she'll appreciate the fresh air."

Gein nodded, heading below deck at Enishi's command.

The bespectacled man watched him go then turned back towards the shoreline, features darkening as he stared at Hoshin. The little fool would ask questions about the girl; questions Enishi wasn't ready to answer and his mind reeled with the implications having Kaoru brought to his compound would bring. But I could not kill her... even though I wanted to... I could not... Nee-san would no longer smile if I had and I must not let her down.

"Let go of me, you jerk!"

The sound of Kaoru's protest drew his attention and Yukishiro turned, watching as Kaoru tried to tug her arm out of Gein's firm grip. "It's alright, Gein, let her go."

The shinobi sighed, not offended when she yanked her arm back and away, the brown pools of her eyes swirling with anger as she shifted her glare away from the ninja over to Yukishiro.

"You have a lot of nerve kidnapping me," Kaoru spat. "When Kenshin finds out what you've done..."

"Even if he does, it will be too late for him to do anything for you."

Her brow furrowed at Enishi's words. "Anything for me? You want to kill me is that it? Well, come on then... why don't you do it already!"

Enishi clenched his jaw, his last nerve on edge and he stalked forward, leaning down slightly to invade the girl's space, smirking a bit when she backed up to avoid him. "You want to die, Kamiya-san? That could be arranged. I may not be able to lift a finger to hurt you but there are plenty of other men who would be more than willing to... deal with you... in many different ways... most of them unpleasant."

She could feel the hotness of his breath on her face and saw the madness reflected in his eyes as they stared at one another. Despite her trepidation, Kaoru would not be intimated and she matched his angry glare with one of her own. Thoughts began to form as she wondered what Enishi's plans for her truly were. Was this show of aggressiveness a ploy to scare her into submission? Or would he really carry through with the threat. He'd already caused so much pain and heartache with his Jinchuu. What was stopping him from killing her now? And why hadn't he killed her back then? Just what was it he wanted from her anyway? Her mind settled the anger and defiance in her heart and will. If I'm to make it out of here alive, I have to pick my moments and wait for the perfect opportunity to escape. Swallowing her pride, Kaoru's body language relaxed, her fighting stance becoming more docile and she broke off eye contact first.

Enishi studied her for a moment, not convinced in the least she'd suddenly become a demure and frail woman. Still there was something in the way she relented that reminded him of his nee-san and his voice softened slightly. "I take your silence to mean you understand your position?"

Kaoru gave a curt nod, the motion so quick, he barely caught it.

"Good. Now then. If you continue to behave and do what I ask, I will send you back to Tokyo at some point. But for now you are my guest and will be treated as such unless you begin to cause me problems."

"The boat is loaded and ready to be boarded." Gein announced, turning his gaze as the rest of the company climbed out onto the top deck.

Enishi straightened his back, his gaze looking beyond Kaoru to address the two men. "Ah, Banjin-san and Mumyoi-san, are you ready to get your feet back onto solid ground?"

"Something like that, yeah," Banjin answered for the pair. "But I still don't understand why you wanted us to come along with you."

"I'll tell you more about my plans for the two of you once we reach the compound." Was all Enishi offered as he turned away and headed towards the boat that was loaded and ready to be hoisted down into the water.

Gein motioned Kaoru to follow his boss and she did with some reluctance, climbing aboard the small vessel then settling behind Yukishiro. The shinobi, Banjin and Mumyoi boarded next and six sailors elected to row were last. The remaining seamen aboard the Xuě Chǐ gripped the ropes and carefully lowered the boat down until it reached the surface of the water. The rowers grabbed the paddles and began to row in timed movements and it wasn't long before they reached the shoreline, the bow of the small vessel sliding up into the sand to hold the ship in place.

Enishi got out first, watching with irritated eyes as Hoshin approached.

"Ahoy there, Yukishiro!" The smaller man greeted with a smile. "I trust your trip to your homeland was fruitful?"

"My business is concluded there for the time being." Was all Enishi would offer.

"Long time no see, Hoshin," Gein interjected as he came up to stand to the right of his boss. "You're looking small as ever."

The arms dealer shifted his gaze over and up to the shinobi, disdain in his voice and features as he countered. "Oh yay, my favorite masked ninja returns. What exactly is it you do with dead bodies again? I mean... I've heard some strange proclivities in my time but..."

"Mind your tongue, Hoshin," Enishi growled, his only warning before he lost his temper and lashed out. "Or I'll rip it out of your mouth."

Hoshin bristled at the command but knew his leader would follow through with his threat and he averted his gaze, submissive and all polite once more. "My apologies." He slowly lifted his head, ignoring the rush of some of the men as they began to off load the boat. His eyes lit up in surprise at the sight of a young woman dressed in what appeared to be some kind of practice uniform and his curiosity was peaked. "Who is the young lady, Yukishiro?"

"She's a guest," Enishi explained curtly. "A very special guest that will be staying at the compound for a while."

"Ah... I see... so she's that kind of girl?"

Enishi's features turned dark. "What did I tell you about that tongue of yours, Hoshin?!" He snapped, using Chinese to get the short man's attention. "She is not to be touched, do you understand? If anyone touches her or tries to harm her in anyway, I will kill them. That includes you, Hoshin. Do I make myself clear?"

Hoshin grit his teeth but knew Enishi would carry out the threat. And until he was dealt with, the white-haired brat was still in charge. "Crystal."

"Good. Now then, there are two other guests that will be staying with us awhile so I want you to make sure they're provided for during the duration."

"Of course. I'll get right on it as soon as we get to the compound."

"See that you do. Now go and prepare our transport. I want to reach Tianma mountain before daybreak."

Hoshin bowed then pivoted away, shouting orders to the men as he marched off.

Enishi watched him go, keeping his gaze locked on his second in command, even as Gein spoke.

"That little rat's going to try to kill you one of these days."

"He can try. But like all others before him, he'll fail."

Gein looked back over his shoulder to Kaoru who stood flanked by Banjin and Mumyoi. "Even with your warning, the girl will still be in danger while she's here."

"I know that. That's why I'll make sure to keep her close to me." Enishi replied. "Stick close to Kamiya-san. And tell Banjin and Mumyoi to guard her as well. I can't afford for her to return to Tokyo just yet." Not until Battosai dies from grief. He added silently as he walked up the shoreline towards the transport wagons that would take them to their destination.

Another chapter complete. This is my longest one yet for this story and I won't do another one this long again. It took me a while to get around to finishing it due to lack of motivation and work. I also had a hard time knowing where to stop the chapter. Next time I'll focus some more on Kaoru before returning to Tokyo. Not many chapters left to this but as to how many more I cannot say. Onto reviews!

Misaki Rika- I'm happy you enjoyed it. I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. As to development, I want to explore avenues we didn't get to see in the manga and create situations that add to the manga itself. :Shuffles feet: Such praise. Thank you and thank you for reading and reviewing. Makes my day to hear from people who read this story!

Scarred Sword Heart- Yeah, not a good thing to poke the bear. They have a tendency to knock you the *uck out. Thanks for the review and for reading this story of mine!

Pjean- :Beams: Thank you! Yes, I agree. This is something movie Kenshin would do because his relationship with Kaoru is far advanced from the one that was in the manga. Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. Thanks for reading and reviewing!

Guest- Wait no more. Kaoru makes an appearance once more. It makes me smile that you love this story and I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. Thanks for reviewing my work and for reading!

Bismarck Alexander- Well, writer's block and family issues took me away from this story for a while so that made it difficult to update. Splitting up into different groups to do different things. Sano and Megumi to deliver a baby, Aoshi visiting Saito and heading off to Yokohama, and Yahiko left alone until Misao comes along. And well, sometimes it's hard to come up with a chapter name. And yes, Megumi and Sano do have issues with communication it seems. Thanks for leaving a few lines and for reading.

Queen 0f Games- Hah! I understand going back to read things over again. Sometimes I do that too. I understand the frustration. We all want Kenshin to wake up and go save Kaoru but I had to write the other stuff first. But worry no more because he's awake and ready to go! In a way it isn't cruel, but Aoshi also understands Misao's frustration and desire to go save Kaoru. Kenshin is vital for that but Aoshi knows Kenshin's state of mind because he went through something similar. Yes, patience is needed but difficult sometimes, eh?

Yes, actions galore! Well, kind of anyway. Hope you enjoyed my spin on Yahiko's fight and Kenshin's return. I'm doing okay, my friend. And thank you for continuing to read my drivel and for reviewing. I always look forward to hearing from you!

ALWAlways- Hello! Welcome to my story! Yes, I wanted to expand and explore the movie universe and how Jinchuu could possibly go. I am thrilled that you have enjoyed it so far and I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. Thank you for reading and for reviewing!