Chapter 11
Deep blue eyes opened, blinking rapidly in attempt to adjust her eyes against the bright sunlight that streamed inside her room. The hazy mind clears and the girl finds herself lying on the floor. Holding a hand up, she rubs her neck in an attempt to ease the tense muscles resulting from falling asleep on the wooden floor.
" Why am I on the floor?"
She wondered out loud, sitting up, careful to avoid the waves of hair as she did so. She reached forward, taking the piece of twine that once held her hair captive. Captive.
" Last night...Aoshi-sama...Why did he do that? Why did he push me away?"
She rubbed her eyes, trying to relieve the stinging as she stood up. She walked over to the window, hoping to pull it open for some fresh air. Like a kick in the face, realization washed over her. She was still being locked in. Her hand moved involuntarily, tugging at the latch as if persistence would win. The door opened behind her, letting in the busy sounds of her home, the Aoiya.
" Ah! Misao-chan. Good. You're awake...we have to dress you for the wedding. It's going to be a busy day!"
Okon and Omasu entered, each looking fresh and energetic. They frowned when they saw Misao tug uselessly at the locked window. Exchanging low whispers, which Misao couldn't hear, they both led her away from the window, gently prying her fingers away. Misao obliged, moving easily at their tugging. She stepped out of the room, through the open door. Her eyes automatically moved down, to the side to where a certain person had been sitting the night before. To her surprise, he was no longer there.
________
The carriage sank lower as the man climbed inside. In traditional garb, Yoshimura sat down, setting down his sword next to him. His ninja stood in a row outside the window, bent over in obedience as the highest ranking ninja bowed down at the door of the carriage.
" Okashira."
Yoshimura smiled, moving in his seat in an attempt to become more comfortable. He eyed the ninja menacingly.
" Head for the Oniwabanshuu headquarters. Under no circumstances are the battousai and his master to interfere got it?"
" Hai okashira...but isn't Jyan guarding-"
" Don't speak to me about that incompetent fool. He is no match for the battousai's master alone. The more the better. You. You keep an eye on Shinomori. Keep him away from my bride...preferably away from the entire establishment."
" Hai Okashira."
Yoshimura reclined on his seat, an evil smile adorning his face as he thought about the events which would take place that day.
" Move out."
The ninja bowed once more, closing the carriage door and gesturing for the driver to move. A short time later, the door opened once more, revealing the open doors of the Aoiya. Guests from both sides stood around, happy conversations rang in his ears as he stepped out of the carriage. As he was led to his room for the day, where he would wait until the ceremony, he took in his surroundings. He laughed inwardly with evil pleasure at the fact that the Oniwabanshuu would soon be his.
________
" I can't breathe."
Misao let out a choked breath as Omasu folded the silk material over, tucking it inside to secure it in place. After several hours of torture, she was finally 'ready' swathed in white silk. She found it quite hard to breathe as she sat quietly. Exerting much effort, she lifted her hand and placed it on her lap. The layers and layers of material were quite heavy, weighing down on her. Her usual ninja outfit was much lighter.
" Don't complain Misao. You have to wear it. Besides you look pretty."
Misao shook her head, grateful that Omasu hadn't had time to tie her hair up yet. Seeing other weddings from within the Oniwabanshuu, she knew that it would be just as painful as putting on a wedding kimono. Outside, she could hear the sounds of many people talking. The Aoiya was bustling with activity.
" Omasu! We need you now!"
Omasu said something incoherent under her breath, putting down the pins she held in her mouth before heading for the door.
" OK Misao. Don't move ok? I'll be right back to do your hair."
Misao remained silent as Omasu left the room. The last time Omasu had said that, she hadn't come back for at least an hour. She was grateful that Omasu had left the door open so that she could see the courtyard of the Aoiya. The sun shone brightly outside, it was a lovely day. She longed to move outside.
" Omasu isn't here...she can't stop me. There's no way I can escape now. Not with this kimono on."
Shakily, she stood up. She sucked in a fast breath as the material straightened, the crinkles straightening. She could see the bright red over kimono hanging in the corner as she took a tentative step forward. Silently, she cursed the trappings of women as she moved out into the hallway. The sheer weight of the kimono was hindering her movements. The skirt of the kimono, its layers upon layers, needed attention. If she wasn't careful, she would trip. However, determinedly she stepped out, heading for the pond, the water shimmering in the sunlight. The pang of guilt quickly subsided, she would deal with Omasu later. She shuddered at the thought of being yelled at for dirtying the kimono but quickly brushed it aside as she reached the pond. Her water reflection stared back at her. Indeed, Omasu had been right. The kimono, no matter how hard it was to wear, was undeniably pretty.
The fish's golden scales glinted in the sunlight as it jumped up out of the water before returning to it. Startled, Misao leaned forward to take a closer look. She had almost forgotten about the fish that lived there. She smiled, remembering her childhood.
" Aoshi-sama...why do the fish shine in the sun?"
Misao laughed at her question, happily reminiscing about the past forgetting about the present for just a moment. Suddenly, a pair of arms encircled her waist, grabbing her roughly. She opened her mouth to scream. A wave of fear crashed over her as a hand moved over her mouth.
___________
The sun shone brightly outside, illuminating all the corners of the courtyard at the Aoiya. Yoshimura sat waiting, waiting to unleash the final parts of his plan to gain control of the best ninja clan besides his own. He gripped his sword by his side, running his fingers along the smooth sheath delicately.
" Kirei."
He stood up, sliding the door further to give him a better view of the pretty garden in the courtyard. His eyes moved other the surroundings, the soft green grass, overhanging sakura tree, pond...and a figure dressed in white. Someone who would belong to him very soon.
" She's yours for the taking anyway...so why not"
Smiling darkly, he stepped forward, walking soundlessly on the stones wedged into the floor. His beady eyes remained on the white angel in front of him, peering into the pond, the water glistening in the sunlight. A curtain of glossy hair framed her face, falling down her back in silky tresses. Yoshimura's muscles tensed in anticipation as he walked up to her. In one swift moment, he had her in his grasp, holding her roughly and aggressively. When he heard her take a deep breath, he knew instantly she would scream. Quickly, he held a hand to block her mouth, preventing her from sounding out an alarm to call for help.
" Bitch, you're mine."
_______
His low voice scared Misao to her very core. She felt sick in her stomach as his hands roamed over her body. His unwanted attentions made her want to retch. She struggled, her attempts useless under his infinitely stronger grip and better position. Her screams came out in muffled sounds as her stomach lurched once more. His hands were everywhere and his hand was causing breathing difficulties. In desperation, she clamped down on his hand with her teeth, causing him to stop his attentions and pull his hands back. She quickly moved away but he recovered first, grabbing her and pulling her close once more.
" No! Let me go! Stop it!"
Her pleas went unheeded as the man clumsily slammed his lips against hers. Misao pushed uselessly against his surprisingly brawny chest. His breath made her stomach lurch again as she stood helplessly.
" You're mine. Don't ever forget that."
Misao attempted to knee him. Her kicks and protests were rendered useless by his blocks and maneuvers. She finally freed a hand, quickly slapping him across the face. Too engrossed in his actions, Yoshimura could not block in time.
" I'm not yours. I'm not anyone's."
Yoshimura growled, feeling the tingling pain on his cheek. He did no hesitate to slam his own palm across Misao's cheek. She fell backward, losing her balance, unused to the weight of her kimono. Before she landed, she was roughly grabbed by the arm, pulled upright and into his arms once more.
"tasukete...onegai" she whispered. " STOP!"
________
" STOP!"
Hiko stopped in his tracks. He set his sake cup down the table where he had been sitting with his baka deshi who had been drinking tea.
" Misao?"
Hiko watched the teenage boy hurriedly get to his feet to run outside. He too stood quickly.
" Yahiko what is it?"
Kenshin stood to join his master. Yahiko turned around and looked at them with concern.
" I think it's Misao yelling."
Kenshin looked sharply at the boy before grabbing his sword and taking off with Hiko at their heels. Out of the corner of his eye, Hiko could see a certain person take off with great speed. Smirking, he grabbed both his student and his 'adoptive' boy by the back of their clothes and pulled them to a stop.
" What the hell do you think you're doing Seijuro! Misao is in trouble!"
" Shishou! Don't interfere."
Hiko crossed his arms and nodded his head towards the open door.
" She has a protector. Let him save her and save us the trouble."
Two pairs of surprised eyes turned to see Aoshi running out to the courtyard sword in hand.
" This is your last chance Shinomori. Make good use of it."
_________
His blood ran cold in his veins, his heart skipping a beat in fear as he raced towards the voice of the strangled scream.
" If something happens to her..."
The gravel crunched beneath his feet as he stepped out into the courtyard. The scene that greeted him made his usually ice-cold eyes flash with anger.
" Yoshimura Nobuo."
The man stopped his lascivious actions, pushing Misao aside and placed a hand on his sword.
" So...if it isn't Shinomori Aoshi. Dog of the Oniwabanshuu."
" This is an insult to the Oniwabanshuu. For hurting the Okashira, you show no respect."
" Oh and what are you going to do about it? She's mine."
Aoshi glanced at Misao, whose eyes were filling with tears of fear.
" She is not anyone's. You will be punished."
" Funny. That's exactly what she said. However...how do you expect to punish me?"
Aoshi gripped his sheath as he stared at Yoshimura. Anger was boiling inside him, threatening to overflow.
" You are forgetting Shinomori. I know all about your moves. I have my sources."
Aoshi did not hesitate to pull out both his kodachi. Knowing full well that he would be at a disadvantage if he attacked first, he ran forward to take the first blow. A flash of metal blocked his forward slash. He crossed his swords together to block Yoshimura's counter blow before flipping his swords, gripping them behind his back.
" Don't bother with that technique. It won't work."
Yoshimura gestured to Aoshi's classic starting position for his technique and laughed. Aoshi did not take Yoshimura's advice and moved forward; dragging his arms forwards with alarming speed, ready to slash all in his path. Yoshimura easily blocked the first blow but was surprised when he found that Aoshi had kicked him in the stomach.
" You...switched technique."
" As a master of the Oniwabanshuu art, I can incorporate whatever the situation needs into the technique. You should have known that."
Yoshimura stood, bristling with anger. He held both the sheath and his sword in his hands as he jumped onto the tree. Using the tree, he pushed off, flying towards Aoshi at top speed, his sword slicing through the air.
" Oniwabanshuu kodachi nitouryuu, Onmyou hatsushi."
The muscles in his arms rippled as he placed on sword in front of the other, his counter attack for Yoshimura's attack. His forward motion could not stop, therefore forcing Yoshimura to defend.
" Stop! Both of you!"
Aoshi, recognizing Okina's voice and acknowledging his request, pulled into a defensive position, crossing his swords over to repel Yoshimura's attack. Yoshimura landed on the floor with a heavy thud, still standing.
" Kaoru-san...please take Misao inside."
Aoshi looked away from his opponent and glanced at Misao, standing, weak kneed as Kaoru escorted her out of the courtyard and into the Aoiya. He now noticed all the people who had crowded around to see the attack.
" The battousai, his master...that boy."
Yoshimura spit on the floor, wiping the side of his mouth as he sheathed his sword before walking towards Okina.
" Nenji. You should keep your lackeys away from me."
" Yoshimura Nobuo, you are the descendent of an honourable ninja clan of Kyoto, and in the past worthy of the Oniwabanshuu's trust and alliance. However you, as Okashira in the Meiji period, have proved untrustworthy. It is shameful for a man in such a position to attack a young girl."
Yoshimura grunted indignantly as Okina spoke in a diplomatic tone.
" She is to be my wife anyway. It's just a girl."
" If she is just a girl, I'm sure you wouldn't mind finding a different wife."
" I suggest you think about this one old man. You don't want to tangle with my clan."
" And neither yours with mine. Even if she is a girl, she is the heir of the Makimachi family and the okashira."
" I am a man, you cannot blame me for this."
Okina laughed dryly at Yoshimura's attempts to soothe the situation.
" Even if I couldn't, which I can, I would find another reason to break this marriage. I don't think you can afford to participate in a FULL SCALE war with the Oniwabanshuu."
Tension hung in the air. Okina was unsure of whether Yoshimura would declare war or slink away. The situation could go either way, and despite all his work to try to prevent the war, it was his words which had introduced the factor into the situation. He regretted his words, but stood his ground, hoping that Yoshimura would leave. Yoshimura hung his sword on his belt and pushed past Okina, heading for the exit.
" I won't take this lying down." He said as he stormed out of the courtyard.
When Yoshimura was gone, Okina's squared shoulders readily slumped, all his fight was gone. What replaced it was a weight of guilt and tiredness.
____________
" There. It's not so dirty anymore...Misao what in the world possessed you to leave the room? In a WHITE wedding kimono no less!?"
Misao sat stoically waiting for Okon to stop yelling at her. Her hands were clasped on her lap as she primly sat on a stool in the middle of the room as her dress demanded of her. She ignored Kaoru and Omasu, who were busily dabbing a soapy liquid onto the dirtied material.
" Misao are you even listening to me?"
Misao opened her mouth to answer but found the words would not come. Okon sighed, turning to exit the room.
" Omasu...is the...is the wedding-"
Okon stopped, her hand on the handle of the door. She looked to the floor, refusing to face Misao.
" I don't know."
With that, she left the room, leaving Omasu and Kaoru alone with Misao. Kaoru moved to hug Misao but Misao waved her away, twisting around so she didn't have to face them.
" Go away."
Omasu and Kaoru exchanged looks.
" Demo...Misao-chan. We're not allowed to leave you alone."
" Don't worry. I won't kill myself if that's what you're thinking."
Misao vaguely noticed Omasu shrug and give Kaoru a gesture to leave the room. Misao found herself alone again, when the door slid shut with a soft thud, the room became silent. She sat pensively not moving. Suddenly, she stood, in a barrage of motion; she scrubbed furiously at her face, using the wet cloth and tub of water that they had left behind. She wanted to wash all the make up off, she wanted to wash her hands of them all.
" Misao...may I come in?"
Her motions stopped as she heard the familiar voice float through the air from behind the closed door.
" I would appreciate it if you didn't...Okina."
________
Okina blanched. Misao had not called him Jiya, he really wondered if things would ever be the same.
" The wedding is off."
Okina's well-trained ears could hear Misao gasp sharply. But no matter how long he waited for a response, she didn't give one. Misao still refused to talk to him, and it hurt him deeply that his pretty girl hated him.
" I'm sorry I put you through this. I didn't mean for it to turn into such a fiasco. Believe me...ne Misao-chan?"
" ...for all it's worth...I'm sorry too. Things will never be the same again Okina."
Okina gulped, a wave of crushing guilt crashing over him. Disappointment gripped him, his throat tightening.
" I know things can't go back to the way they used to be...but can we at least move forward?"
He slid the door open slightly, peeking in, eager to see Misao's reaction. After a long time, he gave up, walking away. Remorse and regret filled his heart, making it too heavy to withstand.
________
Misao was in awe of her situation. As she sat alone in the room, she wondered how things could change so fast. She laughed, despite herself. First she was stuck, up against the wall with nowhere to go and now...now she was free. She no longer had to marry Yoshimura. She was free to be with whomever she wanted to be with.
Shinomori Aoshi.
Her mind wandered back to the night before. The night where he had held her close...even though it was only for a little while. And then bitingly hot rejection, throwing her back into her prison, away from him once more. Why had Aoshi done that? Why had he pushed her away again?
But even if Aoshi didn't want to be with her, she at least had one thing to be happy about. She wouldn't have to be tied down, especially against her will. She was free.
________
Aoshi watched Okina walk off, his shoulders slumped. His large hand still gripped his kodachi tightly.
" Aoshi-san...what are you going to about Misao?"
Aoshi did not look up to meet Kenshin's eyes, sheathing his swords before securing it to his side once more. He was well aware of Yahiko, Kenshin and Hiko standing in the courtyard with him. He started towards the building, feeling the 3 men's stares burrow into him expectantly.
" I'm not going to do anything."
" But Misao isn't marrying Yoshimura anymore-"
Aoshi abruptly turned, the sudden action surprising Kenshin into interrupting himself.
" The fact remains that she is still unmarried. She will be betrothed again soon, I'm sure."
" Che. You stupid icicle! You don't even get it do you?!"
Aoshi narrowed his eyes at the teenage boy standing directly in front of him.
" Sumimasen Aoshi...Yahiko is still young, don't take it out on him."
Kenshin attempted to sooth the situation, holding back a bokken wielding Yahiko.
" You just don't care that she loves you do you?!"
Aoshi blinked, trying to force his voice into sounding steady and calm.
" ..You're right...I don't."
Yahiko launched forward, breaking out of Kenshin's grip to attack Aoshi. Hiko snorted, picking Yahiko up by the collar and throwing him towards the otherside of the courtyard.
" As annoying as that brat is, he's smarter than you Shinomori."
" What do you mean by that?"
" Don't tell me the famed former Okashira of the Oniwabanshuu is blind to all but work. I know you're not dumb Shinomori."
Aoshi unsheathed his swords in a flush of anger. Hiko grinned enigmatically, happy to accept the challenge and unsheathed his own weapon.
" Then I guess you are dumb, dumb enough to take on me. This is your chance Shinomori, you might not get a second chance. Do it now, or something else might get in the way."
" He will not interfere in our fight."
" That's not what I'm talking about boy. You really do know nothing about love do you?"
" What do YOU know about it huh?"
Aoshi's usually calm and collected demeanor had disappeared into a sea of anger and agitation. Hiko smiled, defending Aoshi's sword swing and knocking the end of his sheath into Aoshi's side. Aoshi fell to his knees, gripping his side as he breathed heavily, having the wind knocked out of him.
" Evidently, more than you do."
" What do you mean by that?'
" Quit asking stupid questions Shinomori."
Kenshin gulped, hoping that the two wouldn't engage in full scale combat. This wasn't what Aoshi needed to hear and his master was only making it worse by making Aoshi angry.
" Aoshi, please listen to me. If you continue to act this way, you may lose your chance. True, Misao will be betrothed but it is undecided about who with. Yoshimura is obviously a bit...embaressed about this situation and it will probably be put off for a little while. In this time period, I believe this is your second chance. If you don't take it, then you'll never be with Misao. Regret and remose Aoshi. You'll be stuck in a web of maybe yes, maybe no. You don't want to lose Misao do you?"
A breeze blew through the courtyard. It was the only source of sound as Aoshi knelt quietly, unable to move from his position. His mind was confused, but one question came through loud and clear.
" I..I don't want to lose her."
_______
Misao let out a large sigh of relief as Kaoru loosened the kimono. She had been sent by Okon and Omasu to help her out of the giant human trap they called a dress while they turned away all the wedding guests. Kaoru ran a comb through Misao's long hair, removing all the tangles which had come from the way her hair had been fashioned earlier that morning.
" Ite! Kaoru!"
" Sumimasen Misao...I can't help it."
Misao sat down obediently on the stool as Kaoru continued her motions. A calm silence descended upon them.
" Misao-chan?"
" Hmm?"
" Are you happy the wedding is off?"
Despite Kaoru's grip on her hair, Misao nodded but then sighed.
" Even if it's off, there'll be another one sooner or later."
Kaoru laughed at her, pinning her hair up and gesturing for her to get up. Misao stared at the normal kimono Kaoru placed in her hands.
" You know weddings aren't always so bad."
" Maybe so, but why do I have to dress like that?"
" Well, we figured that if there's not wedding, we might as well have a dinner party to eat all the food!"
Misao laughed heartily, the first time in days. It seemed after all her crying, she had almost forgotten how it felt.
" Was that Jiya's idea?"
The words flew out of her mouth, before she realised what she was saying. Misao's mood tumbled back down as she remembed her falling out with Okina.
" um...Actually it was Okon's. Misao...daijoubu ka?"
Misao nodded slowly as Kaoru helped her slip out of the heavy white material. Placing the wedding kimono aside, Misao actually welcomed the lighter kimono. The sheer silk material in a shade of deep blue felt cool on her skin. She concentrated on the caress of the material against her bare skin in an attempt to ignore her slip of words.
" Misao what are you going to do about Aoshi?"
Misao shrugged, pushing a stray strand of hair behind her ears.
" Nothing. Why should I do anything?"
" Because you know you love him."
Misao sucked in a sharp breath as Kaoru pulled the kimono tightly around her.
" Maybe so, but that doesn't mean anything. He doesn't love me back."
" How can you be so sure?"
Misao curled her hands into a tight first, willing herself not to cry. Her mind thought back the the events of the night before. She didn't know why he had pulled her so close to him, only to push her away again.
" Because he always pushes me away. Always."
Kaoru shook her head as she wrapped the obi around her and began to arrange it in the back.
" What about how Aoshi saved you today?"
" Please...Kaoru I don't really want to talk about it."
" Answer me first."
Misao sighed and turned to face Kaoru when the kimono was secure.
" He always saves me. It's like its his job."
" You know Misao, if you get married again, it would no longer be his job to save you. Maybe you shouldn't take this for granted."
Misao's muscles tightened, her mind registering shock at Kaoru's words. She swallowed her doubt and looked away from Kaoru.
" Its only obligation. He should be happier with the free time he'll have, without me to look after. He doesn't love me...I can't stand to be around him anymore. It hurts too much...not after what he's done."
Kaoru looked on worriedly, taking note of Misao's faraway eyes. Maybe it would be better if the pair remained apart.
Deep blue eyes opened, blinking rapidly in attempt to adjust her eyes against the bright sunlight that streamed inside her room. The hazy mind clears and the girl finds herself lying on the floor. Holding a hand up, she rubs her neck in an attempt to ease the tense muscles resulting from falling asleep on the wooden floor.
" Why am I on the floor?"
She wondered out loud, sitting up, careful to avoid the waves of hair as she did so. She reached forward, taking the piece of twine that once held her hair captive. Captive.
" Last night...Aoshi-sama...Why did he do that? Why did he push me away?"
She rubbed her eyes, trying to relieve the stinging as she stood up. She walked over to the window, hoping to pull it open for some fresh air. Like a kick in the face, realization washed over her. She was still being locked in. Her hand moved involuntarily, tugging at the latch as if persistence would win. The door opened behind her, letting in the busy sounds of her home, the Aoiya.
" Ah! Misao-chan. Good. You're awake...we have to dress you for the wedding. It's going to be a busy day!"
Okon and Omasu entered, each looking fresh and energetic. They frowned when they saw Misao tug uselessly at the locked window. Exchanging low whispers, which Misao couldn't hear, they both led her away from the window, gently prying her fingers away. Misao obliged, moving easily at their tugging. She stepped out of the room, through the open door. Her eyes automatically moved down, to the side to where a certain person had been sitting the night before. To her surprise, he was no longer there.
________
The carriage sank lower as the man climbed inside. In traditional garb, Yoshimura sat down, setting down his sword next to him. His ninja stood in a row outside the window, bent over in obedience as the highest ranking ninja bowed down at the door of the carriage.
" Okashira."
Yoshimura smiled, moving in his seat in an attempt to become more comfortable. He eyed the ninja menacingly.
" Head for the Oniwabanshuu headquarters. Under no circumstances are the battousai and his master to interfere got it?"
" Hai okashira...but isn't Jyan guarding-"
" Don't speak to me about that incompetent fool. He is no match for the battousai's master alone. The more the better. You. You keep an eye on Shinomori. Keep him away from my bride...preferably away from the entire establishment."
" Hai Okashira."
Yoshimura reclined on his seat, an evil smile adorning his face as he thought about the events which would take place that day.
" Move out."
The ninja bowed once more, closing the carriage door and gesturing for the driver to move. A short time later, the door opened once more, revealing the open doors of the Aoiya. Guests from both sides stood around, happy conversations rang in his ears as he stepped out of the carriage. As he was led to his room for the day, where he would wait until the ceremony, he took in his surroundings. He laughed inwardly with evil pleasure at the fact that the Oniwabanshuu would soon be his.
________
" I can't breathe."
Misao let out a choked breath as Omasu folded the silk material over, tucking it inside to secure it in place. After several hours of torture, she was finally 'ready' swathed in white silk. She found it quite hard to breathe as she sat quietly. Exerting much effort, she lifted her hand and placed it on her lap. The layers and layers of material were quite heavy, weighing down on her. Her usual ninja outfit was much lighter.
" Don't complain Misao. You have to wear it. Besides you look pretty."
Misao shook her head, grateful that Omasu hadn't had time to tie her hair up yet. Seeing other weddings from within the Oniwabanshuu, she knew that it would be just as painful as putting on a wedding kimono. Outside, she could hear the sounds of many people talking. The Aoiya was bustling with activity.
" Omasu! We need you now!"
Omasu said something incoherent under her breath, putting down the pins she held in her mouth before heading for the door.
" OK Misao. Don't move ok? I'll be right back to do your hair."
Misao remained silent as Omasu left the room. The last time Omasu had said that, she hadn't come back for at least an hour. She was grateful that Omasu had left the door open so that she could see the courtyard of the Aoiya. The sun shone brightly outside, it was a lovely day. She longed to move outside.
" Omasu isn't here...she can't stop me. There's no way I can escape now. Not with this kimono on."
Shakily, she stood up. She sucked in a fast breath as the material straightened, the crinkles straightening. She could see the bright red over kimono hanging in the corner as she took a tentative step forward. Silently, she cursed the trappings of women as she moved out into the hallway. The sheer weight of the kimono was hindering her movements. The skirt of the kimono, its layers upon layers, needed attention. If she wasn't careful, she would trip. However, determinedly she stepped out, heading for the pond, the water shimmering in the sunlight. The pang of guilt quickly subsided, she would deal with Omasu later. She shuddered at the thought of being yelled at for dirtying the kimono but quickly brushed it aside as she reached the pond. Her water reflection stared back at her. Indeed, Omasu had been right. The kimono, no matter how hard it was to wear, was undeniably pretty.
The fish's golden scales glinted in the sunlight as it jumped up out of the water before returning to it. Startled, Misao leaned forward to take a closer look. She had almost forgotten about the fish that lived there. She smiled, remembering her childhood.
" Aoshi-sama...why do the fish shine in the sun?"
Misao laughed at her question, happily reminiscing about the past forgetting about the present for just a moment. Suddenly, a pair of arms encircled her waist, grabbing her roughly. She opened her mouth to scream. A wave of fear crashed over her as a hand moved over her mouth.
___________
The sun shone brightly outside, illuminating all the corners of the courtyard at the Aoiya. Yoshimura sat waiting, waiting to unleash the final parts of his plan to gain control of the best ninja clan besides his own. He gripped his sword by his side, running his fingers along the smooth sheath delicately.
" Kirei."
He stood up, sliding the door further to give him a better view of the pretty garden in the courtyard. His eyes moved other the surroundings, the soft green grass, overhanging sakura tree, pond...and a figure dressed in white. Someone who would belong to him very soon.
" She's yours for the taking anyway...so why not"
Smiling darkly, he stepped forward, walking soundlessly on the stones wedged into the floor. His beady eyes remained on the white angel in front of him, peering into the pond, the water glistening in the sunlight. A curtain of glossy hair framed her face, falling down her back in silky tresses. Yoshimura's muscles tensed in anticipation as he walked up to her. In one swift moment, he had her in his grasp, holding her roughly and aggressively. When he heard her take a deep breath, he knew instantly she would scream. Quickly, he held a hand to block her mouth, preventing her from sounding out an alarm to call for help.
" Bitch, you're mine."
_______
His low voice scared Misao to her very core. She felt sick in her stomach as his hands roamed over her body. His unwanted attentions made her want to retch. She struggled, her attempts useless under his infinitely stronger grip and better position. Her screams came out in muffled sounds as her stomach lurched once more. His hands were everywhere and his hand was causing breathing difficulties. In desperation, she clamped down on his hand with her teeth, causing him to stop his attentions and pull his hands back. She quickly moved away but he recovered first, grabbing her and pulling her close once more.
" No! Let me go! Stop it!"
Her pleas went unheeded as the man clumsily slammed his lips against hers. Misao pushed uselessly against his surprisingly brawny chest. His breath made her stomach lurch again as she stood helplessly.
" You're mine. Don't ever forget that."
Misao attempted to knee him. Her kicks and protests were rendered useless by his blocks and maneuvers. She finally freed a hand, quickly slapping him across the face. Too engrossed in his actions, Yoshimura could not block in time.
" I'm not yours. I'm not anyone's."
Yoshimura growled, feeling the tingling pain on his cheek. He did no hesitate to slam his own palm across Misao's cheek. She fell backward, losing her balance, unused to the weight of her kimono. Before she landed, she was roughly grabbed by the arm, pulled upright and into his arms once more.
"tasukete...onegai" she whispered. " STOP!"
________
" STOP!"
Hiko stopped in his tracks. He set his sake cup down the table where he had been sitting with his baka deshi who had been drinking tea.
" Misao?"
Hiko watched the teenage boy hurriedly get to his feet to run outside. He too stood quickly.
" Yahiko what is it?"
Kenshin stood to join his master. Yahiko turned around and looked at them with concern.
" I think it's Misao yelling."
Kenshin looked sharply at the boy before grabbing his sword and taking off with Hiko at their heels. Out of the corner of his eye, Hiko could see a certain person take off with great speed. Smirking, he grabbed both his student and his 'adoptive' boy by the back of their clothes and pulled them to a stop.
" What the hell do you think you're doing Seijuro! Misao is in trouble!"
" Shishou! Don't interfere."
Hiko crossed his arms and nodded his head towards the open door.
" She has a protector. Let him save her and save us the trouble."
Two pairs of surprised eyes turned to see Aoshi running out to the courtyard sword in hand.
" This is your last chance Shinomori. Make good use of it."
_________
His blood ran cold in his veins, his heart skipping a beat in fear as he raced towards the voice of the strangled scream.
" If something happens to her..."
The gravel crunched beneath his feet as he stepped out into the courtyard. The scene that greeted him made his usually ice-cold eyes flash with anger.
" Yoshimura Nobuo."
The man stopped his lascivious actions, pushing Misao aside and placed a hand on his sword.
" So...if it isn't Shinomori Aoshi. Dog of the Oniwabanshuu."
" This is an insult to the Oniwabanshuu. For hurting the Okashira, you show no respect."
" Oh and what are you going to do about it? She's mine."
Aoshi glanced at Misao, whose eyes were filling with tears of fear.
" She is not anyone's. You will be punished."
" Funny. That's exactly what she said. However...how do you expect to punish me?"
Aoshi gripped his sheath as he stared at Yoshimura. Anger was boiling inside him, threatening to overflow.
" You are forgetting Shinomori. I know all about your moves. I have my sources."
Aoshi did not hesitate to pull out both his kodachi. Knowing full well that he would be at a disadvantage if he attacked first, he ran forward to take the first blow. A flash of metal blocked his forward slash. He crossed his swords together to block Yoshimura's counter blow before flipping his swords, gripping them behind his back.
" Don't bother with that technique. It won't work."
Yoshimura gestured to Aoshi's classic starting position for his technique and laughed. Aoshi did not take Yoshimura's advice and moved forward; dragging his arms forwards with alarming speed, ready to slash all in his path. Yoshimura easily blocked the first blow but was surprised when he found that Aoshi had kicked him in the stomach.
" You...switched technique."
" As a master of the Oniwabanshuu art, I can incorporate whatever the situation needs into the technique. You should have known that."
Yoshimura stood, bristling with anger. He held both the sheath and his sword in his hands as he jumped onto the tree. Using the tree, he pushed off, flying towards Aoshi at top speed, his sword slicing through the air.
" Oniwabanshuu kodachi nitouryuu, Onmyou hatsushi."
The muscles in his arms rippled as he placed on sword in front of the other, his counter attack for Yoshimura's attack. His forward motion could not stop, therefore forcing Yoshimura to defend.
" Stop! Both of you!"
Aoshi, recognizing Okina's voice and acknowledging his request, pulled into a defensive position, crossing his swords over to repel Yoshimura's attack. Yoshimura landed on the floor with a heavy thud, still standing.
" Kaoru-san...please take Misao inside."
Aoshi looked away from his opponent and glanced at Misao, standing, weak kneed as Kaoru escorted her out of the courtyard and into the Aoiya. He now noticed all the people who had crowded around to see the attack.
" The battousai, his master...that boy."
Yoshimura spit on the floor, wiping the side of his mouth as he sheathed his sword before walking towards Okina.
" Nenji. You should keep your lackeys away from me."
" Yoshimura Nobuo, you are the descendent of an honourable ninja clan of Kyoto, and in the past worthy of the Oniwabanshuu's trust and alliance. However you, as Okashira in the Meiji period, have proved untrustworthy. It is shameful for a man in such a position to attack a young girl."
Yoshimura grunted indignantly as Okina spoke in a diplomatic tone.
" She is to be my wife anyway. It's just a girl."
" If she is just a girl, I'm sure you wouldn't mind finding a different wife."
" I suggest you think about this one old man. You don't want to tangle with my clan."
" And neither yours with mine. Even if she is a girl, she is the heir of the Makimachi family and the okashira."
" I am a man, you cannot blame me for this."
Okina laughed dryly at Yoshimura's attempts to soothe the situation.
" Even if I couldn't, which I can, I would find another reason to break this marriage. I don't think you can afford to participate in a FULL SCALE war with the Oniwabanshuu."
Tension hung in the air. Okina was unsure of whether Yoshimura would declare war or slink away. The situation could go either way, and despite all his work to try to prevent the war, it was his words which had introduced the factor into the situation. He regretted his words, but stood his ground, hoping that Yoshimura would leave. Yoshimura hung his sword on his belt and pushed past Okina, heading for the exit.
" I won't take this lying down." He said as he stormed out of the courtyard.
When Yoshimura was gone, Okina's squared shoulders readily slumped, all his fight was gone. What replaced it was a weight of guilt and tiredness.
____________
" There. It's not so dirty anymore...Misao what in the world possessed you to leave the room? In a WHITE wedding kimono no less!?"
Misao sat stoically waiting for Okon to stop yelling at her. Her hands were clasped on her lap as she primly sat on a stool in the middle of the room as her dress demanded of her. She ignored Kaoru and Omasu, who were busily dabbing a soapy liquid onto the dirtied material.
" Misao are you even listening to me?"
Misao opened her mouth to answer but found the words would not come. Okon sighed, turning to exit the room.
" Omasu...is the...is the wedding-"
Okon stopped, her hand on the handle of the door. She looked to the floor, refusing to face Misao.
" I don't know."
With that, she left the room, leaving Omasu and Kaoru alone with Misao. Kaoru moved to hug Misao but Misao waved her away, twisting around so she didn't have to face them.
" Go away."
Omasu and Kaoru exchanged looks.
" Demo...Misao-chan. We're not allowed to leave you alone."
" Don't worry. I won't kill myself if that's what you're thinking."
Misao vaguely noticed Omasu shrug and give Kaoru a gesture to leave the room. Misao found herself alone again, when the door slid shut with a soft thud, the room became silent. She sat pensively not moving. Suddenly, she stood, in a barrage of motion; she scrubbed furiously at her face, using the wet cloth and tub of water that they had left behind. She wanted to wash all the make up off, she wanted to wash her hands of them all.
" Misao...may I come in?"
Her motions stopped as she heard the familiar voice float through the air from behind the closed door.
" I would appreciate it if you didn't...Okina."
________
Okina blanched. Misao had not called him Jiya, he really wondered if things would ever be the same.
" The wedding is off."
Okina's well-trained ears could hear Misao gasp sharply. But no matter how long he waited for a response, she didn't give one. Misao still refused to talk to him, and it hurt him deeply that his pretty girl hated him.
" I'm sorry I put you through this. I didn't mean for it to turn into such a fiasco. Believe me...ne Misao-chan?"
" ...for all it's worth...I'm sorry too. Things will never be the same again Okina."
Okina gulped, a wave of crushing guilt crashing over him. Disappointment gripped him, his throat tightening.
" I know things can't go back to the way they used to be...but can we at least move forward?"
He slid the door open slightly, peeking in, eager to see Misao's reaction. After a long time, he gave up, walking away. Remorse and regret filled his heart, making it too heavy to withstand.
________
Misao was in awe of her situation. As she sat alone in the room, she wondered how things could change so fast. She laughed, despite herself. First she was stuck, up against the wall with nowhere to go and now...now she was free. She no longer had to marry Yoshimura. She was free to be with whomever she wanted to be with.
Shinomori Aoshi.
Her mind wandered back to the night before. The night where he had held her close...even though it was only for a little while. And then bitingly hot rejection, throwing her back into her prison, away from him once more. Why had Aoshi done that? Why had he pushed her away again?
But even if Aoshi didn't want to be with her, she at least had one thing to be happy about. She wouldn't have to be tied down, especially against her will. She was free.
________
Aoshi watched Okina walk off, his shoulders slumped. His large hand still gripped his kodachi tightly.
" Aoshi-san...what are you going to about Misao?"
Aoshi did not look up to meet Kenshin's eyes, sheathing his swords before securing it to his side once more. He was well aware of Yahiko, Kenshin and Hiko standing in the courtyard with him. He started towards the building, feeling the 3 men's stares burrow into him expectantly.
" I'm not going to do anything."
" But Misao isn't marrying Yoshimura anymore-"
Aoshi abruptly turned, the sudden action surprising Kenshin into interrupting himself.
" The fact remains that she is still unmarried. She will be betrothed again soon, I'm sure."
" Che. You stupid icicle! You don't even get it do you?!"
Aoshi narrowed his eyes at the teenage boy standing directly in front of him.
" Sumimasen Aoshi...Yahiko is still young, don't take it out on him."
Kenshin attempted to sooth the situation, holding back a bokken wielding Yahiko.
" You just don't care that she loves you do you?!"
Aoshi blinked, trying to force his voice into sounding steady and calm.
" ..You're right...I don't."
Yahiko launched forward, breaking out of Kenshin's grip to attack Aoshi. Hiko snorted, picking Yahiko up by the collar and throwing him towards the otherside of the courtyard.
" As annoying as that brat is, he's smarter than you Shinomori."
" What do you mean by that?"
" Don't tell me the famed former Okashira of the Oniwabanshuu is blind to all but work. I know you're not dumb Shinomori."
Aoshi unsheathed his swords in a flush of anger. Hiko grinned enigmatically, happy to accept the challenge and unsheathed his own weapon.
" Then I guess you are dumb, dumb enough to take on me. This is your chance Shinomori, you might not get a second chance. Do it now, or something else might get in the way."
" He will not interfere in our fight."
" That's not what I'm talking about boy. You really do know nothing about love do you?"
" What do YOU know about it huh?"
Aoshi's usually calm and collected demeanor had disappeared into a sea of anger and agitation. Hiko smiled, defending Aoshi's sword swing and knocking the end of his sheath into Aoshi's side. Aoshi fell to his knees, gripping his side as he breathed heavily, having the wind knocked out of him.
" Evidently, more than you do."
" What do you mean by that?'
" Quit asking stupid questions Shinomori."
Kenshin gulped, hoping that the two wouldn't engage in full scale combat. This wasn't what Aoshi needed to hear and his master was only making it worse by making Aoshi angry.
" Aoshi, please listen to me. If you continue to act this way, you may lose your chance. True, Misao will be betrothed but it is undecided about who with. Yoshimura is obviously a bit...embaressed about this situation and it will probably be put off for a little while. In this time period, I believe this is your second chance. If you don't take it, then you'll never be with Misao. Regret and remose Aoshi. You'll be stuck in a web of maybe yes, maybe no. You don't want to lose Misao do you?"
A breeze blew through the courtyard. It was the only source of sound as Aoshi knelt quietly, unable to move from his position. His mind was confused, but one question came through loud and clear.
" I..I don't want to lose her."
_______
Misao let out a large sigh of relief as Kaoru loosened the kimono. She had been sent by Okon and Omasu to help her out of the giant human trap they called a dress while they turned away all the wedding guests. Kaoru ran a comb through Misao's long hair, removing all the tangles which had come from the way her hair had been fashioned earlier that morning.
" Ite! Kaoru!"
" Sumimasen Misao...I can't help it."
Misao sat down obediently on the stool as Kaoru continued her motions. A calm silence descended upon them.
" Misao-chan?"
" Hmm?"
" Are you happy the wedding is off?"
Despite Kaoru's grip on her hair, Misao nodded but then sighed.
" Even if it's off, there'll be another one sooner or later."
Kaoru laughed at her, pinning her hair up and gesturing for her to get up. Misao stared at the normal kimono Kaoru placed in her hands.
" You know weddings aren't always so bad."
" Maybe so, but why do I have to dress like that?"
" Well, we figured that if there's not wedding, we might as well have a dinner party to eat all the food!"
Misao laughed heartily, the first time in days. It seemed after all her crying, she had almost forgotten how it felt.
" Was that Jiya's idea?"
The words flew out of her mouth, before she realised what she was saying. Misao's mood tumbled back down as she remembed her falling out with Okina.
" um...Actually it was Okon's. Misao...daijoubu ka?"
Misao nodded slowly as Kaoru helped her slip out of the heavy white material. Placing the wedding kimono aside, Misao actually welcomed the lighter kimono. The sheer silk material in a shade of deep blue felt cool on her skin. She concentrated on the caress of the material against her bare skin in an attempt to ignore her slip of words.
" Misao what are you going to do about Aoshi?"
Misao shrugged, pushing a stray strand of hair behind her ears.
" Nothing. Why should I do anything?"
" Because you know you love him."
Misao sucked in a sharp breath as Kaoru pulled the kimono tightly around her.
" Maybe so, but that doesn't mean anything. He doesn't love me back."
" How can you be so sure?"
Misao curled her hands into a tight first, willing herself not to cry. Her mind thought back the the events of the night before. She didn't know why he had pulled her so close to him, only to push her away again.
" Because he always pushes me away. Always."
Kaoru shook her head as she wrapped the obi around her and began to arrange it in the back.
" What about how Aoshi saved you today?"
" Please...Kaoru I don't really want to talk about it."
" Answer me first."
Misao sighed and turned to face Kaoru when the kimono was secure.
" He always saves me. It's like its his job."
" You know Misao, if you get married again, it would no longer be his job to save you. Maybe you shouldn't take this for granted."
Misao's muscles tightened, her mind registering shock at Kaoru's words. She swallowed her doubt and looked away from Kaoru.
" Its only obligation. He should be happier with the free time he'll have, without me to look after. He doesn't love me...I can't stand to be around him anymore. It hurts too much...not after what he's done."
Kaoru looked on worriedly, taking note of Misao's faraway eyes. Maybe it would be better if the pair remained apart.