STANDARD DISCLAIMERS APPLY:
Rurouni Kenshin and The Shinsen Gumi does not belong to me, I just borrow them. But I Love them a lot.
So PLS dun sue me… I am just a poor 16 yrs old student.. Thanx
AUTHORS NOTES: This story is base more on Kaoru's view in the Shinsen Gumi… then Kenshin's view in the Ishin Shishi. The characters in Shinsen Gumi are all real well except for Kaoru… duh… anyway I did a little research on The Shinsen Gumi… It did help me a little… if anyone has more information on the Shinsen Gumi… do leave it in the review or you would like to E-mail me the resources… Me E-mail is: kenshin_kaoru@rkonline.zzn.com or kenshin_kaoru86@yahoo.com Thanks a lot… Please if you are a Shinsen Gumi fan… please do not feel Offended… Thanks again.
Warning: I don't really have a good command of English… So forgive me for my grammatical mistakes.
Akai Tsuki
Chapter 15: I'll Always Come Back To You
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Previous: --
"Ryuu Sou Sen!" Sanosuke whipped his head to the sky seeing Kenshin just above him with his sword. It was too late. The next thing he knew was that he felt pain all over him. Blood seeping out of him, energy and life too. Kenshin had inflicted multiple deep slashes on him.
"You shall pay dearly for wasting my time!" With that, Kenshin brought down his katana. But was stop as another kunai flew towards him. Kenshin caught it with his bare hands. The next thing he knew was, a black blurry figure taking Sanosuke. He was gone.
Kenshin turned and continue to walk towards the direction where he was headed. Kaoru's ribbon managed to slip out
"Kao… ru…" Kenshin took it in his bleeding hands. Jasmine filled the air.
"I'm coming… wait for me…" Kenshin muttered as he continued walking towards Kaoru.
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"Come out! Okita Souji, First Captain of the Shinsen Gumi!"
Rustles were heard. Kaoru soon saw a shadowed figure and gradually became clear. Okita made his appreance. He was as usual wearing his blue and white uniform. Hair tied neatly in a high ponytail, hands clutching his katana.
"Kamiya Kaoru. This is the last chance! Do you turn back?" the only thing different about Okita was that his famous smiley face was replaced by a death mask. Kaoru looked back at Okita sky blue eyes.
"No! I would like to get this over with!" Kaoru shouted to his direction. Okita unconsciously let out a sigh and closed his eyes.
"I was hoping to avoid this battle Kaoru. Please, I don't want to do this."
"Neither do I like it. But for the sake of him (Kenshin) I have to go back to him. I'm sorry." Kaoru closed her eyes too. There was a minute of silence. The next moment. The both of them unsheathe their weapons. Kodachis and katana. The both of them ran to each other. Clashing of metals were heard.
"Kodachi nitou Ryuu! Goku juji!" With that Kaoru cross her kodachis like scirrors. The blade targeted for Okita's neck. Having lighting reflexes, Okita blocked the attack by having placing his katana in the middle of the attack. They struggled, but it was obvious that Okita had the upper hand. He was the stronger one between the both of them. Not technically but physically.
'Losing to Okita? It would be the last thing I want to do!' Kaoru thought as she unleashed a battle cry and pushed her blade further.
"You have improved much more than I expected Kaoru chan." OKita said amazed at her new found strength. He might have looked fine as usual. But he hated this fight! He wanted it to stop so badly. He couldn't bring himself to hurt her. But... she decided to betray the Shinsen Gumi to go with Kenshin... the Battousai! Okita's heart and mind was in total chaos. He wanted to perform his duty well... but his opponent was not anyone. But Kaoru... the one he had loved. No monster could bring himself in hurting the one he loves. Not even Okita Souji.
With another push, Kaoru managed to graze Okita's skin. Kaoru hated to hurt Okita. She winced at the sight of blood. She noticed that Okita was not having his full concentration. She knew at once that he was hesitating.
"Come! Okita Souji! Show me with your 'Kiku Ichi Morimune'. Let's do this seriously." Kaoru said as she prepared her stance. Each kodachi at her side, pointing at the ground. Okita smiled a little at Kaoru's determination. She had always been like this. This was the characteristic he loved and liked about her. This was unavoidable. He too prepared his stance. He brought his left shoulder higher than the right. His right leg brought to the front. He held the katana more to the right. Waiting for Kaoru's attack.
"Be prepared!" With that Kaoru charged towards him. She raised her kodachi one higher than the other. Kaoru was nearing Okita but he made no movement.
"Tennen Rishin Ryuu." Okita said coolly as he stepped a step forward. Kaoru's abdomen nearly got connected with his katana. She managed to stop the incoming blade. Using one of the kodachi.
"Kodachi nitou ryuu On Myo Kuza!" Kaoru brought her second kodachi down. Pushing more force. To...
'She plans to break my katana!' Okita thought as he saw through her plan finally. He crooked his mouth a little. He stole a glimpse at Kaoru. She was getting tired. Kaoru was starting to gasp for more air. Beads of sweat made their way down her face. Now it was the time for him to get serious.
"Your little games won't do good with me Kaoru chan!" With that Okita managed to flip his katanato the other side. He pulled out his katana upwards. Kaoru's eyes widen at the attack. Next thing she knew was that one of her kodachis broke into two and pain invaded her body.
"KYAA!" Kaoru screamed as Okita thrust his katana into her chest. Sending her flying to the next ground. Kaoru held onto her injury as she panted for air. She was getting more and more tired. Life and energy drained out of her.
'This can't be happening. He just broke one of my kodachi into two! Not only that, he totally caught me offguard and erase my 'On Myo Kuza!' Kaoru reprimanded herself. She held her other kodachi tighter. She reached out for her saya. She used that to support her weight.
"Kaoru, the fight is ov-"
"No! It's not! I have only barely begun! I told you didn't I? I told you I'm going back to him no matter at what cost!" With that Kaoru launched towards Okita. her kodachi ad metal saya was pointed behind her.
"Kodachi Nitou Ryuu Ougi! Kaiten Kenbu Rokuren!" Kaoru threw the both of it towards Okita as it seem to have a life it's own. Okita gritted his teeth as he managed to threw of Kaoru's kodachi. But the metal saya contacted to his stomach. She caught both her weapons at a considerably distance between them.
The hit from the saya let off a terrible fits of cough. Okita started to tremble as the cough worsen. Kaoru forgetting her status in the fight ran towards him.
"Souji!" Okita was crumbled on the floor. Small pools of blood forming under his mouth. Kaoru seeing this immediately cradled his head using her arms and thighs as a support. She ripped the sleeve of her gi. She used the piece of cloth to wipe his blood near his mouth. Okita turned his head away.
"Why? Why are you doing this after..." Okita's cough came back again.
"Souji! Daijoubu?" Kaoru stroke his back as he coughed out blood again. Little did she knew that Okita hugged her after his cough.
"I... I have never ever got to tell you this. It has always been a treasure in my locked heart. I know you loved another.... but... I just want you to know something before you find Hijikata sama." Okita said as he cupped her face and looked straight into those deep blue eyes he loved.
"I have always loved you... no matter how you treat me. A brother or even a best friend. I can never forget you. You hold a place in my heart. A big space than you can ever imagine. Yes... I have to admit. I nearly killed Saitou san... for getting near you... touching you... as... I always thought that I should only be the one." Okita started to laugh softly. Kaoru's eyes brimmed with tears.
"I'm possessive aren't I." Okita laughed again.
"Stop... you shouldn't talk much." A finger landed on her soft lips.
"Let me finish. I have the same feeling when I saw how you and Battousai kissed. How the both of you hugged each other. How much I envied Battousai. Able to touch and love you. Kaoru... I asked of a favor from you. Would you let this unworthy one... to have one kiss with you?" Okita said as he closed his eyes closing in the distance with Kaoru.
"I... I..." Kaoru stammered. Seeing Okita's lips getting closer. Yes. She had liked Okita. Bt she liked him as a brother, a best friend. And she was already someone else's woman. Battousai. Kaoru turned her head away. The kiss landed on her cheek. Okita eyes widen.
"Kaoru...." Tears flowed freely.
"I'm sorry.... But... I can't.... I cannot... because... because..."
"Because.... you love him so much, and it hurts to kiss another. Even though the other person you kiss is just a friend, you feel pain. Don't you? I know that feeling all too well..."
"Souji.... I'm sorry."
"Don't be... go... you have won this battle... the next... I wish you luck."
"Thank you. Take care... Souji chan." Kaoru laid Okita downed carefully as she bid him goodbye. Despite the pain she felt in her abdomen or chest, she ran as fast as she could. Her last stop of fight was coming. With her ex-vice captain. Hijikata Toshizou. Just as she remembered his name. She stopped at the scene. There he was. Hijikata Toshizou. Beside him were all the members of the Shinsen Gumi.
"Having so much people to witness my death?"
"Glad you understood." Hijikata smirked.
"Sorry... I don't intent to die today. Not now!" Kaoru said defiantly. She unsheathe her only kodachi and held onto it's saya.
"Souji broke your other one?" Hijikata said as he stood up. Kaoru made no response as she prepare her stance. She has to have all concentration. She needed to defeat Hijikata or get defeated. She gripped the hilt of her kodachi tighter. This was her last battle. She didn't intend to lose.
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Kenshin was walking down the trail. The scent of blood filled the air. Kenshin's heart wrenched in pain. He have to get to Kaoru fast. He walked faster. He stopped his tracks when he heard a scream that echoed through the forest. It sounded familiar.
'Kaoru!!' Kenshin recognizes it. Although he was in pain he ran with lighting speed. He ran towards the sound. But it was stopped by Kaoru's fiancé.
'Ex-fiancé to be more exact.' Kenshin thought to himself again. He clutched his katana tighter. He had tied her indigo ribbon on the hand that was gripping the katana. The feeling of silk along with the rough texture on the hilt.
"Hitokiri Battousai. I will take down your head." Saitou said as he crouched down preparing his stance.
"Where is Kaoru?" Saitou clenched his teeth.
"That is none of your business. Your last battle is with me! You would have to cross my dead body before you are going to meet Kaoru."
"Then it shall be it! Mibu rou your death is today!" With that Kenshin unsheathe his katana and twirl into a swirl.
"Ryuu kan sen arashi!" Kenshin's katana met with Saitou's Gatotsu. Both of them got a graze of injury.
'He's a left handed swordsman. Not much people uses the left hand. Shinsen Gumi sure has some strange people working for them. First, a lady warrior. Next a smiling freak. Next, a guy who uses spear and the handle was made from metal. Lastly, but I can't confirm it's the last freak. Is a left handed swordsman.' Kenshin's trains of thoughts were broke apart by Saitou's battle cry.
"Die! Battousai!" Kenshin saw it coming and jumped into the air. Swirl his body in mid air.
"That was my line I suppose!" Kenshin pointed his katana downwards.
"Ryuu Tsui Sen Zan!" With that Kenshin went down with it. But his katana was stopped and once again, pain flowed through his small figure.
"Gatotsu, Nishiki." Saitou's katana was through at Kenshin's chest.
"Argh!" Kenshin was being thrown to a far distance. Saitou wasted no time as he strike towards him with the same stance, only to have its katana pointed to the ground.
"Gatotsu , Sanshiki." This was being blocked by Kenshin as he brought his sword up doing a 'Ryuu Sho Sen'.
Both of them gasping for air due to the injury they received from each other. Kenshin's injuries were at the chest and abdomen. While Saitou's injury was at his shoulder. Saitou prepared his Gatotsu stance again.
"The way the Mibu rou fight I guess. This will get you killed Saitou san." Kenshin said sheathing his katana.
"Shut up! Ikuzu!!!" With that Saitou charged towards him as Kenshin did the same. Inflicting a Battou-jutsu. Breaking his katana into two. While Kenshin got a graze from his right chest to the left.
Silence filled the battle ground. Suddenly, another scream broke the silence as a loud thud was heard. Kenshin whipped towards the sound.
'Kaoru! I've gotta save her!' With that Kenshin ran towards the sound but was stopped by a black figure he saw just now. A flying punch landed on his cheek, sending him to another corner. Blood trickled down as the figure disappeared and reappear in front of him and gave him a kick. This time, Kenshin managed to block the hit with the back of his arm.
"Kaoru's suffering because of you!" With the new found strength, Susumu kicked him to the other corner. The indigo ribbon flew out of Kenshin's grasp. Lying there on the ground, with a big patch of blood stained on it. Feeling drain Kenshin staggered towards the ribbon and picked it up only to be knee kicked again.
Kenshin stood up again, walking towards the ribbon. But this time, the one getting hurt would not be him. He had no time to waste. As if on cue, Susumu threw several kunais at him all to be blocked by Kenshin's katana. The next thing Susumu knew was that, he was being pinned on the truck on the shoulder. Kenshin mercilessly pulled out his katana, flicking the blood away. He walked towards the ribbon. Picking it up gingerly.
"Battousai! You and my fight isn't over yet!" Saitou's sound boomed.
"Your katana is gone Saitou! The fight is over!" Kenshin tried to reason with him.
With that, Saitou took the broken katana at made his 'Gatotsu' stance.
"A mibu rou never learns." Kenshin stated impatiently. Saitou gave no warning as he launched forward to Kenshin. His broken katana met nothing but air. He jerked his head to his side to find Kenshin inflicting a battou-jutsu to his neck. Pushing him to a near-by tree. Kenshin held his katana in hand and walked towards him.
Saitou felt numb after the injury at the neck. He couldn't even move his fingers. Is breathing became more and more haggard.
"I shall grant your wish to die honorably mibu rou." With that Kenshin raised his katana over head. Suddenly, a shout distracted all three of them. Kenshin, Saitou and Susumu.
"YAMETE!! Onegai!!" The three of them, found Tokio panting heavily running towards Saitou.
"Stop! Please! If not for my sake then for Kaoru's! I promised her that I would take care of Hajime so she could be free! Please! Himura san.... Don't take him away from me." Tokio knelt in front of Kenshin and she raised both hands to shoulder level to protect Saitou from the merciless blade. Tokio some how reminded him of how Kaoru insisted on letting him go at the Ikedaya incident. He lowered hi blade slowly and sheathe it.
"Thank gods, that you found some one like her." With that Kenshin was gone like the wind. Going after Kaoru.
"What do you think you are doing here! I told you to stay at the inn! Do you know how dangerous this is? It might get you killed! What do you expect me to do next?" Saitou chided Tokio.
"I came for you... like how you came for me back then." Tokio answered sweet and short. Saitou was taken back.
'Came for me?' His cold amber eyes soften a little. Before collapsing onto Tokio's thigh, he gave a small smile and muttered a 'thanks'.
"Take care of Saitou. I would go see Kaoru now." Without waiting for her reply, he disappeared into the shadow.
'A lady who tames the wolf. Interesting.' Susumu thought as he clutched onto his injured shoulder jumping from branch to branch. Camouflaged into the shadows.
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Blood covered Kaoru's forehead as some trickled down her face. Kaoru staggered to stand again with the help of the saya. Kaoru panted for air as she shut one of her eyes. Pain surged through her whole body. Slashes could be seen on her whole body as blood stained her gi and hakama.
"Give up Kamiya! I'm too strong for you. Your kodachi nitou ryuu is useless to me. Not to mention when one of it is broken by Okita." Kaoru gritted her teeth as she held on to her saya and kodachi tighter.
"Unsatisfied? Then show me what you really got Kamiya! If... you can break or even make me let go of my katana.... I will let you go." Hijikata said confidently. No one had ever done it to him. Hijikata was positive in winning. Kaoru raced towards him and did a mirror image. Kaiten Kenbu. Her sword dancing.
Hijikata made no movement as Kaoru circled me. He looked at the ground.
"Good try, Kamiya. But you forget... that you are bleeding!" Hijikata thrust his sword towards Kaoru. Kaoru's eyes widen but manage to block Hijikta's thrust by sliding it into her sheathe. But little did she know Hijikata kicked her in the ribs again. Flying to the group of Shinsen Gumi members. Whisperings were heard as Kaoru coughed out blood again.
'Have.... to.... get.... up....' Kaoru thought as she commanded her legs to stand but it gave way as her face met the ground. Grazing her ivory skin.
'Got.... to... get.... up....' Kaoru commanded again. She finally stood up with the help of her kodachi. Hijikata smirked at the sight of Kaoru.
'She had already lost.' Kaoru started to walked slowly towards him by the aid of the kodachi. Slowly... she gained speed. Plucking the kodachi out of the ground she ran full speed at him. She could no longer care about techniques. All that in her mind was making Hijikata lose his katana or hurt him some how. She unleashed a battle cry as she raised her kodachi. Life was draining out of her already... bit... by... bit.
'I'll Love You Always.... Ken.... shin....' Pictures of Kenshin flashed through her mind. The pictures when she first met him. The pictures where he glared at her... with those amber hues. The pictures where he smiled at her. The pictures where he looked at her so lovingly. The unforgettable night... that she became... his woman. Yes. She promised him that... she would come back always... but maybe... that promise was not to be.
She brought down her kodachi and saya on top of it, pushing more force into it. Suddenly, a familiar voice boomed out of the corner.
"KAORU!!!" Kaoru having new found strength, shouted again. The next thing she knew was that she had gone pass Hijikata. She was affirmative.... she had manage to injured his left arm. She had won. Hijikata wasn't everything.... but he was a man who does what he had said. Kaoru slumped onto the dirty floor. Hijikata smiled inwardly at the injury he received. He signaled for the members attention,.
"Let's go." Hijikata commanded the Shinsen Gumi. Soon they were gone. Leaving Kaoru with the guy.
"KAORU!!!" The mysterious yet familiar man called out to her. He cradled her in his embrace. Kaoru smiled at his anxiousness.
"You can't stop worrying for a second.... could you?" Kenshin stroked her cheeks.
"I cannot.... if it concerns about you... my love." Kaoru smiled at the status she is in Kenshin's heart. Kenshin took out the ribbon from his gi.
"My.... ribbon...." Kenshin handed the ribbon to the enthusiastic yet tired Kaoru. He smiled at her... but tears... couldn't stop to flow.
"Kenshin... no... baka... I have kept my promise to you.... I have come back... so stop... crying." Kaoru managed to caress his cheek.
"Shh... sleep... you are tired... I'll be there... when you wake up... This is my promise to you now." Kaoru smiled at his promise. And gave into darkness. The last thing she saw was the never changing red moon hanging above the greatest night.
~=Owari=~ (NEXT!! EPILOUGE!!)
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Author's Notes:
So, How was this chappie??? Please R&R ne keep me happy and INSPIRED… A happier me… a faster update ne thanks a lot…
Suggestions are welcomed ne…
WAI WAI WAI!! Next of this... would be the epilogue!! Stay tune ne... How was these fighting scenes... took me long enough desu ne... ^__^ gomen... they really need a lot of thinking.... I hope it's great... ^^ What do you think?? Is this ending nice?? Does it suit the story...?? Hope all of ya like it ne... ^^
About Assassin's of Love... anou.... GOMEN!! Yes! I took LONG for the epilogue... I promise that I'll get them out soon.... and I have a sequel in mind already.... I know! I'm an idiot! Haven't even finish my epilogue... i'm already thinking about my sequel... shweesh... what's with me??
[There will be 2 sets ^^ check if your names are there! It may appear twice ne..]
I would like to thank all readers and reviewers… Especially these people::
MP -- *pats MP's head* Dun worry it its... I promise ne ^^ I hope this fighting scene is good... Is it? I hope you like this chappie ^^ And thank you for reviewing ^__^
Tanuki (jo chan) -- Yes! Of course I remember you ^^ I remember all my reviewers ^^ Thank you for supporting me all the way... i am more than grateful ^^Thanks for the compliment... i have been flatered. Anyway.. here's the next chappie... i hope you'll like it ^^ thanks for the review too ^__^
Crystal -- Really? I thought my battle scenes looked lame... -_-... But i'm glad you like it Here's the next chappie... I hope you'll like it.. thanks for the review too ^__^
Sabina-star -- Here's the fight with okita... You think it's good?? I'm not very sure ya know... what do you think? Here's the update... hope you'll like it.. thanks for the review ^__^
Shojin Takaru -- Ohisashiburi desu ne!! It's ok... you must have been busy ne... Thanks for the review... I hope you like this chappie too ^__^
K-chan -- Sou! Poor kenshin ne... anyway... I hope you'll like this chappie... thanks for the review too ^__^
Tan Kimiko -- Soap opera? really? haha~ I didn't noticed it. here's the next update... so kenshin is going to be revived desu ne. Thanks for the cute review ne ^__^
Saby-chan --I describe the fighting scenes well? Thanks! YEAH! kaoru kick ass ne!! Hehe! Gomen for me being evil... Evil is my middle name.. Ohohohohoho~ Ahem.. nvm me... anyway... here's the next chappie.. I hope you'll like it... thanks for the review ^__^
Chibi -- Here's more!! I hope you'll like it ne.. ^^ Thanks for the review ^__^
^^ -- It's not really Sagara Sanosuke. It's Harada Sanosuke. He's a real life character. He's in the ShinsenGumi as you hve already know. He is in the 10th patrol group. Uses a spear. Watsuki sama also used him for the Sagara Sanosuke's character model ya know ^_^ So you understand now? Anyway here's the next chappie... I hope you'll like it...Thanks for the review ^__^
D.A -- Well I think I would stopped this fic after the war... you kow where they meet Arai Shakku.. the rest... you'll have to wait for the epilouge. ^^ Here's the next chappie... i hope you'll like.... thanks for the review too ne.. ^__^
Willow -- Here's the next chappie ^^ Thank you for the review ^__^
Omochi -- Here's the update... thanks for the review.. ^__^
Here's the review for the previous chappie ^__^
Crystal -- *Drools at the sight of Battousai* Kyaa!! I love Battousai!! *Hugs Crystal. haha~ Gomen ne, for the cliffhangers... hope you'll like this chappie..
Sabrina-star -- Haiz... her next encounter with Okita would be a fight.. ^^ Hope you'll like this chappie...
Joey -- Nope! Jumps one feet away from joey chan... I dun intend to kill her... So no worries ne... They will be happy in their own way... I promise ^^ Here's the next chappie.. I hope you'll like it ne.. Thanks for the review.. ^__^
Bunny -- WAI WAI WAI!! I couldn't imagine that you REVIEWED my fic!! I'm so happy!! I like your fic.. How the past can change... they are one of my favourites!! Really!! I'm not joking ya know ^_^ Well she said Second love because her first was Saitou ne ^^ here's the next chappie.. i really hope you'll like this chappie ^__^ Thanks for the review ne ^^
tiggergirl -- Really?? I am very happy you like this story ^^Dun worry... she won't die ne.. ^^ thanks for the review... i hope you'll like this ne...
omochi -- Oro? ANou... what's the meaning of 'deja vou'?? I'm not quite sure ne.. ^^ Do tell me... Anyway.. thanks for the review.. here's the chappie.. hope you'll like it..
Tsuki-sama -- Thank you for being my #1 fan.. thanks for supporting me through the way ne.. Tsuki-sama ^^ I like to see your reviews too ^^ Thanks for saying that I'm one of the best rk writers.. thank you... i believe there are better ones out there ne ^^ Really? you really think that my ideas of KK together are nice?? Thanks! ^__^ Thanks for you nice review.. here' the chappie.. i hope you'll like it.. ^__^
marstanuki -- Thanks for the review.. i hope you'll like this chappie ^__^
Williow -- Don't worry.. Kaoru doesn't die...^^ here's the upate... i hope you'll like it ne.. ^__^
Saby-chan --Thanks for the review ne ^^ hope you'll like this...
J.J -- Dun worry!! It is going to be a GOOD ending.. trust me ne.. ^^ Thanks for the reviews.. ^^ Hope you'll like this chappie... ^^
Tan Kimiko -- YES!! Dun worry... i like gd endings... i understand how reader gets fed up when the ending doesn't make the expectation.. But!! Don't worry... I SWEAR!! this is going to be good! thanks for the review... ^__^
Ayumi -- Really? My writing amaze you? ^^ THANKS!! Here's the next chappie... I hope you'll like it.. ^__^
::BIG THANKS::
SakuraCherryBlossom -- Thanks for the review ^^ Hope you'll like it... ^__^
Rurouni Kenshin and The Shinsen Gumi does not belong to me, I just borrow them. But I Love them a lot.
So PLS dun sue me… I am just a poor 16 yrs old student.. Thanx
AUTHORS NOTES: This story is base more on Kaoru's view in the Shinsen Gumi… then Kenshin's view in the Ishin Shishi. The characters in Shinsen Gumi are all real well except for Kaoru… duh… anyway I did a little research on The Shinsen Gumi… It did help me a little… if anyone has more information on the Shinsen Gumi… do leave it in the review or you would like to E-mail me the resources… Me E-mail is: kenshin_kaoru@rkonline.zzn.com or kenshin_kaoru86@yahoo.com Thanks a lot… Please if you are a Shinsen Gumi fan… please do not feel Offended… Thanks again.
Warning: I don't really have a good command of English… So forgive me for my grammatical mistakes.
Akai Tsuki
Chapter 15: I'll Always Come Back To You
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Previous: --
"Ryuu Sou Sen!" Sanosuke whipped his head to the sky seeing Kenshin just above him with his sword. It was too late. The next thing he knew was that he felt pain all over him. Blood seeping out of him, energy and life too. Kenshin had inflicted multiple deep slashes on him.
"You shall pay dearly for wasting my time!" With that, Kenshin brought down his katana. But was stop as another kunai flew towards him. Kenshin caught it with his bare hands. The next thing he knew was, a black blurry figure taking Sanosuke. He was gone.
Kenshin turned and continue to walk towards the direction where he was headed. Kaoru's ribbon managed to slip out
"Kao… ru…" Kenshin took it in his bleeding hands. Jasmine filled the air.
"I'm coming… wait for me…" Kenshin muttered as he continued walking towards Kaoru.
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"Come out! Okita Souji, First Captain of the Shinsen Gumi!"
Rustles were heard. Kaoru soon saw a shadowed figure and gradually became clear. Okita made his appreance. He was as usual wearing his blue and white uniform. Hair tied neatly in a high ponytail, hands clutching his katana.
"Kamiya Kaoru. This is the last chance! Do you turn back?" the only thing different about Okita was that his famous smiley face was replaced by a death mask. Kaoru looked back at Okita sky blue eyes.
"No! I would like to get this over with!" Kaoru shouted to his direction. Okita unconsciously let out a sigh and closed his eyes.
"I was hoping to avoid this battle Kaoru. Please, I don't want to do this."
"Neither do I like it. But for the sake of him (Kenshin) I have to go back to him. I'm sorry." Kaoru closed her eyes too. There was a minute of silence. The next moment. The both of them unsheathe their weapons. Kodachis and katana. The both of them ran to each other. Clashing of metals were heard.
"Kodachi nitou Ryuu! Goku juji!" With that Kaoru cross her kodachis like scirrors. The blade targeted for Okita's neck. Having lighting reflexes, Okita blocked the attack by having placing his katana in the middle of the attack. They struggled, but it was obvious that Okita had the upper hand. He was the stronger one between the both of them. Not technically but physically.
'Losing to Okita? It would be the last thing I want to do!' Kaoru thought as she unleashed a battle cry and pushed her blade further.
"You have improved much more than I expected Kaoru chan." OKita said amazed at her new found strength. He might have looked fine as usual. But he hated this fight! He wanted it to stop so badly. He couldn't bring himself to hurt her. But... she decided to betray the Shinsen Gumi to go with Kenshin... the Battousai! Okita's heart and mind was in total chaos. He wanted to perform his duty well... but his opponent was not anyone. But Kaoru... the one he had loved. No monster could bring himself in hurting the one he loves. Not even Okita Souji.
With another push, Kaoru managed to graze Okita's skin. Kaoru hated to hurt Okita. She winced at the sight of blood. She noticed that Okita was not having his full concentration. She knew at once that he was hesitating.
"Come! Okita Souji! Show me with your 'Kiku Ichi Morimune'. Let's do this seriously." Kaoru said as she prepared her stance. Each kodachi at her side, pointing at the ground. Okita smiled a little at Kaoru's determination. She had always been like this. This was the characteristic he loved and liked about her. This was unavoidable. He too prepared his stance. He brought his left shoulder higher than the right. His right leg brought to the front. He held the katana more to the right. Waiting for Kaoru's attack.
"Be prepared!" With that Kaoru charged towards him. She raised her kodachi one higher than the other. Kaoru was nearing Okita but he made no movement.
"Tennen Rishin Ryuu." Okita said coolly as he stepped a step forward. Kaoru's abdomen nearly got connected with his katana. She managed to stop the incoming blade. Using one of the kodachi.
"Kodachi nitou ryuu On Myo Kuza!" Kaoru brought her second kodachi down. Pushing more force. To...
'She plans to break my katana!' Okita thought as he saw through her plan finally. He crooked his mouth a little. He stole a glimpse at Kaoru. She was getting tired. Kaoru was starting to gasp for more air. Beads of sweat made their way down her face. Now it was the time for him to get serious.
"Your little games won't do good with me Kaoru chan!" With that Okita managed to flip his katanato the other side. He pulled out his katana upwards. Kaoru's eyes widen at the attack. Next thing she knew was that one of her kodachis broke into two and pain invaded her body.
"KYAA!" Kaoru screamed as Okita thrust his katana into her chest. Sending her flying to the next ground. Kaoru held onto her injury as she panted for air. She was getting more and more tired. Life and energy drained out of her.
'This can't be happening. He just broke one of my kodachi into two! Not only that, he totally caught me offguard and erase my 'On Myo Kuza!' Kaoru reprimanded herself. She held her other kodachi tighter. She reached out for her saya. She used that to support her weight.
"Kaoru, the fight is ov-"
"No! It's not! I have only barely begun! I told you didn't I? I told you I'm going back to him no matter at what cost!" With that Kaoru launched towards Okita. her kodachi ad metal saya was pointed behind her.
"Kodachi Nitou Ryuu Ougi! Kaiten Kenbu Rokuren!" Kaoru threw the both of it towards Okita as it seem to have a life it's own. Okita gritted his teeth as he managed to threw of Kaoru's kodachi. But the metal saya contacted to his stomach. She caught both her weapons at a considerably distance between them.
The hit from the saya let off a terrible fits of cough. Okita started to tremble as the cough worsen. Kaoru forgetting her status in the fight ran towards him.
"Souji!" Okita was crumbled on the floor. Small pools of blood forming under his mouth. Kaoru seeing this immediately cradled his head using her arms and thighs as a support. She ripped the sleeve of her gi. She used the piece of cloth to wipe his blood near his mouth. Okita turned his head away.
"Why? Why are you doing this after..." Okita's cough came back again.
"Souji! Daijoubu?" Kaoru stroke his back as he coughed out blood again. Little did she knew that Okita hugged her after his cough.
"I... I have never ever got to tell you this. It has always been a treasure in my locked heart. I know you loved another.... but... I just want you to know something before you find Hijikata sama." Okita said as he cupped her face and looked straight into those deep blue eyes he loved.
"I have always loved you... no matter how you treat me. A brother or even a best friend. I can never forget you. You hold a place in my heart. A big space than you can ever imagine. Yes... I have to admit. I nearly killed Saitou san... for getting near you... touching you... as... I always thought that I should only be the one." Okita started to laugh softly. Kaoru's eyes brimmed with tears.
"I'm possessive aren't I." Okita laughed again.
"Stop... you shouldn't talk much." A finger landed on her soft lips.
"Let me finish. I have the same feeling when I saw how you and Battousai kissed. How the both of you hugged each other. How much I envied Battousai. Able to touch and love you. Kaoru... I asked of a favor from you. Would you let this unworthy one... to have one kiss with you?" Okita said as he closed his eyes closing in the distance with Kaoru.
"I... I..." Kaoru stammered. Seeing Okita's lips getting closer. Yes. She had liked Okita. Bt she liked him as a brother, a best friend. And she was already someone else's woman. Battousai. Kaoru turned her head away. The kiss landed on her cheek. Okita eyes widen.
"Kaoru...." Tears flowed freely.
"I'm sorry.... But... I can't.... I cannot... because... because..."
"Because.... you love him so much, and it hurts to kiss another. Even though the other person you kiss is just a friend, you feel pain. Don't you? I know that feeling all too well..."
"Souji.... I'm sorry."
"Don't be... go... you have won this battle... the next... I wish you luck."
"Thank you. Take care... Souji chan." Kaoru laid Okita downed carefully as she bid him goodbye. Despite the pain she felt in her abdomen or chest, she ran as fast as she could. Her last stop of fight was coming. With her ex-vice captain. Hijikata Toshizou. Just as she remembered his name. She stopped at the scene. There he was. Hijikata Toshizou. Beside him were all the members of the Shinsen Gumi.
"Having so much people to witness my death?"
"Glad you understood." Hijikata smirked.
"Sorry... I don't intent to die today. Not now!" Kaoru said defiantly. She unsheathe her only kodachi and held onto it's saya.
"Souji broke your other one?" Hijikata said as he stood up. Kaoru made no response as she prepare her stance. She has to have all concentration. She needed to defeat Hijikata or get defeated. She gripped the hilt of her kodachi tighter. This was her last battle. She didn't intend to lose.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Kenshin was walking down the trail. The scent of blood filled the air. Kenshin's heart wrenched in pain. He have to get to Kaoru fast. He walked faster. He stopped his tracks when he heard a scream that echoed through the forest. It sounded familiar.
'Kaoru!!' Kenshin recognizes it. Although he was in pain he ran with lighting speed. He ran towards the sound. But it was stopped by Kaoru's fiancé.
'Ex-fiancé to be more exact.' Kenshin thought to himself again. He clutched his katana tighter. He had tied her indigo ribbon on the hand that was gripping the katana. The feeling of silk along with the rough texture on the hilt.
"Hitokiri Battousai. I will take down your head." Saitou said as he crouched down preparing his stance.
"Where is Kaoru?" Saitou clenched his teeth.
"That is none of your business. Your last battle is with me! You would have to cross my dead body before you are going to meet Kaoru."
"Then it shall be it! Mibu rou your death is today!" With that Kenshin unsheathe his katana and twirl into a swirl.
"Ryuu kan sen arashi!" Kenshin's katana met with Saitou's Gatotsu. Both of them got a graze of injury.
'He's a left handed swordsman. Not much people uses the left hand. Shinsen Gumi sure has some strange people working for them. First, a lady warrior. Next a smiling freak. Next, a guy who uses spear and the handle was made from metal. Lastly, but I can't confirm it's the last freak. Is a left handed swordsman.' Kenshin's trains of thoughts were broke apart by Saitou's battle cry.
"Die! Battousai!" Kenshin saw it coming and jumped into the air. Swirl his body in mid air.
"That was my line I suppose!" Kenshin pointed his katana downwards.
"Ryuu Tsui Sen Zan!" With that Kenshin went down with it. But his katana was stopped and once again, pain flowed through his small figure.
"Gatotsu, Nishiki." Saitou's katana was through at Kenshin's chest.
"Argh!" Kenshin was being thrown to a far distance. Saitou wasted no time as he strike towards him with the same stance, only to have its katana pointed to the ground.
"Gatotsu , Sanshiki." This was being blocked by Kenshin as he brought his sword up doing a 'Ryuu Sho Sen'.
Both of them gasping for air due to the injury they received from each other. Kenshin's injuries were at the chest and abdomen. While Saitou's injury was at his shoulder. Saitou prepared his Gatotsu stance again.
"The way the Mibu rou fight I guess. This will get you killed Saitou san." Kenshin said sheathing his katana.
"Shut up! Ikuzu!!!" With that Saitou charged towards him as Kenshin did the same. Inflicting a Battou-jutsu. Breaking his katana into two. While Kenshin got a graze from his right chest to the left.
Silence filled the battle ground. Suddenly, another scream broke the silence as a loud thud was heard. Kenshin whipped towards the sound.
'Kaoru! I've gotta save her!' With that Kenshin ran towards the sound but was stopped by a black figure he saw just now. A flying punch landed on his cheek, sending him to another corner. Blood trickled down as the figure disappeared and reappear in front of him and gave him a kick. This time, Kenshin managed to block the hit with the back of his arm.
"Kaoru's suffering because of you!" With the new found strength, Susumu kicked him to the other corner. The indigo ribbon flew out of Kenshin's grasp. Lying there on the ground, with a big patch of blood stained on it. Feeling drain Kenshin staggered towards the ribbon and picked it up only to be knee kicked again.
Kenshin stood up again, walking towards the ribbon. But this time, the one getting hurt would not be him. He had no time to waste. As if on cue, Susumu threw several kunais at him all to be blocked by Kenshin's katana. The next thing Susumu knew was that, he was being pinned on the truck on the shoulder. Kenshin mercilessly pulled out his katana, flicking the blood away. He walked towards the ribbon. Picking it up gingerly.
"Battousai! You and my fight isn't over yet!" Saitou's sound boomed.
"Your katana is gone Saitou! The fight is over!" Kenshin tried to reason with him.
With that, Saitou took the broken katana at made his 'Gatotsu' stance.
"A mibu rou never learns." Kenshin stated impatiently. Saitou gave no warning as he launched forward to Kenshin. His broken katana met nothing but air. He jerked his head to his side to find Kenshin inflicting a battou-jutsu to his neck. Pushing him to a near-by tree. Kenshin held his katana in hand and walked towards him.
Saitou felt numb after the injury at the neck. He couldn't even move his fingers. Is breathing became more and more haggard.
"I shall grant your wish to die honorably mibu rou." With that Kenshin raised his katana over head. Suddenly, a shout distracted all three of them. Kenshin, Saitou and Susumu.
"YAMETE!! Onegai!!" The three of them, found Tokio panting heavily running towards Saitou.
"Stop! Please! If not for my sake then for Kaoru's! I promised her that I would take care of Hajime so she could be free! Please! Himura san.... Don't take him away from me." Tokio knelt in front of Kenshin and she raised both hands to shoulder level to protect Saitou from the merciless blade. Tokio some how reminded him of how Kaoru insisted on letting him go at the Ikedaya incident. He lowered hi blade slowly and sheathe it.
"Thank gods, that you found some one like her." With that Kenshin was gone like the wind. Going after Kaoru.
"What do you think you are doing here! I told you to stay at the inn! Do you know how dangerous this is? It might get you killed! What do you expect me to do next?" Saitou chided Tokio.
"I came for you... like how you came for me back then." Tokio answered sweet and short. Saitou was taken back.
'Came for me?' His cold amber eyes soften a little. Before collapsing onto Tokio's thigh, he gave a small smile and muttered a 'thanks'.
"Take care of Saitou. I would go see Kaoru now." Without waiting for her reply, he disappeared into the shadow.
'A lady who tames the wolf. Interesting.' Susumu thought as he clutched onto his injured shoulder jumping from branch to branch. Camouflaged into the shadows.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Blood covered Kaoru's forehead as some trickled down her face. Kaoru staggered to stand again with the help of the saya. Kaoru panted for air as she shut one of her eyes. Pain surged through her whole body. Slashes could be seen on her whole body as blood stained her gi and hakama.
"Give up Kamiya! I'm too strong for you. Your kodachi nitou ryuu is useless to me. Not to mention when one of it is broken by Okita." Kaoru gritted her teeth as she held on to her saya and kodachi tighter.
"Unsatisfied? Then show me what you really got Kamiya! If... you can break or even make me let go of my katana.... I will let you go." Hijikata said confidently. No one had ever done it to him. Hijikata was positive in winning. Kaoru raced towards him and did a mirror image. Kaiten Kenbu. Her sword dancing.
Hijikata made no movement as Kaoru circled me. He looked at the ground.
"Good try, Kamiya. But you forget... that you are bleeding!" Hijikata thrust his sword towards Kaoru. Kaoru's eyes widen but manage to block Hijikta's thrust by sliding it into her sheathe. But little did she know Hijikata kicked her in the ribs again. Flying to the group of Shinsen Gumi members. Whisperings were heard as Kaoru coughed out blood again.
'Have.... to.... get.... up....' Kaoru thought as she commanded her legs to stand but it gave way as her face met the ground. Grazing her ivory skin.
'Got.... to... get.... up....' Kaoru commanded again. She finally stood up with the help of her kodachi. Hijikata smirked at the sight of Kaoru.
'She had already lost.' Kaoru started to walked slowly towards him by the aid of the kodachi. Slowly... she gained speed. Plucking the kodachi out of the ground she ran full speed at him. She could no longer care about techniques. All that in her mind was making Hijikata lose his katana or hurt him some how. She unleashed a battle cry as she raised her kodachi. Life was draining out of her already... bit... by... bit.
'I'll Love You Always.... Ken.... shin....' Pictures of Kenshin flashed through her mind. The pictures when she first met him. The pictures where he glared at her... with those amber hues. The pictures where he smiled at her. The pictures where he looked at her so lovingly. The unforgettable night... that she became... his woman. Yes. She promised him that... she would come back always... but maybe... that promise was not to be.
She brought down her kodachi and saya on top of it, pushing more force into it. Suddenly, a familiar voice boomed out of the corner.
"KAORU!!!" Kaoru having new found strength, shouted again. The next thing she knew was that she had gone pass Hijikata. She was affirmative.... she had manage to injured his left arm. She had won. Hijikata wasn't everything.... but he was a man who does what he had said. Kaoru slumped onto the dirty floor. Hijikata smiled inwardly at the injury he received. He signaled for the members attention,.
"Let's go." Hijikata commanded the Shinsen Gumi. Soon they were gone. Leaving Kaoru with the guy.
"KAORU!!!" The mysterious yet familiar man called out to her. He cradled her in his embrace. Kaoru smiled at his anxiousness.
"You can't stop worrying for a second.... could you?" Kenshin stroked her cheeks.
"I cannot.... if it concerns about you... my love." Kaoru smiled at the status she is in Kenshin's heart. Kenshin took out the ribbon from his gi.
"My.... ribbon...." Kenshin handed the ribbon to the enthusiastic yet tired Kaoru. He smiled at her... but tears... couldn't stop to flow.
"Kenshin... no... baka... I have kept my promise to you.... I have come back... so stop... crying." Kaoru managed to caress his cheek.
"Shh... sleep... you are tired... I'll be there... when you wake up... This is my promise to you now." Kaoru smiled at his promise. And gave into darkness. The last thing she saw was the never changing red moon hanging above the greatest night.
~=Owari=~ (NEXT!! EPILOUGE!!)
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Author's Notes:
So, How was this chappie??? Please R&R ne keep me happy and INSPIRED… A happier me… a faster update ne thanks a lot…
Suggestions are welcomed ne…
WAI WAI WAI!! Next of this... would be the epilogue!! Stay tune ne... How was these fighting scenes... took me long enough desu ne... ^__^ gomen... they really need a lot of thinking.... I hope it's great... ^^ What do you think?? Is this ending nice?? Does it suit the story...?? Hope all of ya like it ne... ^^
About Assassin's of Love... anou.... GOMEN!! Yes! I took LONG for the epilogue... I promise that I'll get them out soon.... and I have a sequel in mind already.... I know! I'm an idiot! Haven't even finish my epilogue... i'm already thinking about my sequel... shweesh... what's with me??
[There will be 2 sets ^^ check if your names are there! It may appear twice ne..]
I would like to thank all readers and reviewers… Especially these people::
MP -- *pats MP's head* Dun worry it its... I promise ne ^^ I hope this fighting scene is good... Is it? I hope you like this chappie ^^ And thank you for reviewing ^__^
Tanuki (jo chan) -- Yes! Of course I remember you ^^ I remember all my reviewers ^^ Thank you for supporting me all the way... i am more than grateful ^^Thanks for the compliment... i have been flatered. Anyway.. here's the next chappie... i hope you'll like it ^^ thanks for the review too ^__^
Crystal -- Really? I thought my battle scenes looked lame... -_-... But i'm glad you like it Here's the next chappie... I hope you'll like it.. thanks for the review too ^__^
Sabina-star -- Here's the fight with okita... You think it's good?? I'm not very sure ya know... what do you think? Here's the update... hope you'll like it.. thanks for the review ^__^
Shojin Takaru -- Ohisashiburi desu ne!! It's ok... you must have been busy ne... Thanks for the review... I hope you like this chappie too ^__^
K-chan -- Sou! Poor kenshin ne... anyway... I hope you'll like this chappie... thanks for the review too ^__^
Tan Kimiko -- Soap opera? really? haha~ I didn't noticed it. here's the next update... so kenshin is going to be revived desu ne. Thanks for the cute review ne ^__^
Saby-chan --I describe the fighting scenes well? Thanks! YEAH! kaoru kick ass ne!! Hehe! Gomen for me being evil... Evil is my middle name.. Ohohohohoho~ Ahem.. nvm me... anyway... here's the next chappie.. I hope you'll like it... thanks for the review ^__^
Chibi -- Here's more!! I hope you'll like it ne.. ^^ Thanks for the review ^__^
^^ -- It's not really Sagara Sanosuke. It's Harada Sanosuke. He's a real life character. He's in the ShinsenGumi as you hve already know. He is in the 10th patrol group. Uses a spear. Watsuki sama also used him for the Sagara Sanosuke's character model ya know ^_^ So you understand now? Anyway here's the next chappie... I hope you'll like it...Thanks for the review ^__^
D.A -- Well I think I would stopped this fic after the war... you kow where they meet Arai Shakku.. the rest... you'll have to wait for the epilouge. ^^ Here's the next chappie... i hope you'll like.... thanks for the review too ne.. ^__^
Willow -- Here's the next chappie ^^ Thank you for the review ^__^
Omochi -- Here's the update... thanks for the review.. ^__^
Here's the review for the previous chappie ^__^
Crystal -- *Drools at the sight of Battousai* Kyaa!! I love Battousai!! *Hugs Crystal. haha~ Gomen ne, for the cliffhangers... hope you'll like this chappie..
Sabrina-star -- Haiz... her next encounter with Okita would be a fight.. ^^ Hope you'll like this chappie...
Joey -- Nope! Jumps one feet away from joey chan... I dun intend to kill her... So no worries ne... They will be happy in their own way... I promise ^^ Here's the next chappie.. I hope you'll like it ne.. Thanks for the review.. ^__^
Bunny -- WAI WAI WAI!! I couldn't imagine that you REVIEWED my fic!! I'm so happy!! I like your fic.. How the past can change... they are one of my favourites!! Really!! I'm not joking ya know ^_^ Well she said Second love because her first was Saitou ne ^^ here's the next chappie.. i really hope you'll like this chappie ^__^ Thanks for the review ne ^^
tiggergirl -- Really?? I am very happy you like this story ^^Dun worry... she won't die ne.. ^^ thanks for the review... i hope you'll like this ne...
omochi -- Oro? ANou... what's the meaning of 'deja vou'?? I'm not quite sure ne.. ^^ Do tell me... Anyway.. thanks for the review.. here's the chappie.. hope you'll like it..
Tsuki-sama -- Thank you for being my #1 fan.. thanks for supporting me through the way ne.. Tsuki-sama ^^ I like to see your reviews too ^^ Thanks for saying that I'm one of the best rk writers.. thank you... i believe there are better ones out there ne ^^ Really? you really think that my ideas of KK together are nice?? Thanks! ^__^ Thanks for you nice review.. here' the chappie.. i hope you'll like it.. ^__^
marstanuki -- Thanks for the review.. i hope you'll like this chappie ^__^
Williow -- Don't worry.. Kaoru doesn't die...^^ here's the upate... i hope you'll like it ne.. ^__^
Saby-chan --Thanks for the review ne ^^ hope you'll like this...
J.J -- Dun worry!! It is going to be a GOOD ending.. trust me ne.. ^^ Thanks for the reviews.. ^^ Hope you'll like this chappie... ^^
Tan Kimiko -- YES!! Dun worry... i like gd endings... i understand how reader gets fed up when the ending doesn't make the expectation.. But!! Don't worry... I SWEAR!! this is going to be good! thanks for the review... ^__^
Ayumi -- Really? My writing amaze you? ^^ THANKS!! Here's the next chappie... I hope you'll like it.. ^__^
::BIG THANKS::
SakuraCherryBlossom -- Thanks for the review ^^ Hope you'll like it... ^__^