Chapter 5- An Old Family, A New Beginning

The trip home didn't take very long. The weather stayed in Aoshi's favor as he rode along the dirt road, his son resting in the crook of his arm. Occasionally he'd stop to feed him, reaching into his saddlebag for one of the bottles Kaoru had so generously given him. But not once did he dismount.

(A/N- if you don't know, dismount means to get off your horse. I live on a farm and have been riding for almost 9 years so that's why I use some of the equine vocabulary)

He wasn't entirely surprised that Genichi behaved very well on the trip home. Sure, a newborn wasn't strong enough to break his grip, but he didn't cry and only fidgeted when he was hungry. Aoshi was pleased; he was just like Misao.

At long last, horse, rider, and wagon pulled up into Kyoto. As they neared the Aioya, Aoshi felt a mix of exhaustion and relief. The ride had been long and he was sore all over from the long ride. Though he was an experienced rider, he had neglected to ride a horse regularly. He knew he'd be stiff the next day.

Stars were sparkling up in the sky, as well as the moon, which showed her complete circle that night. Upon reaching the building, Aoshi slid from the saddle and to the ground, still holding the small bundle wrapped in his trench coat.

"Hey look! It's Aoshi!"

"Aoshi!"

The former okashira turned slightly to meet the advance of the Oniwaban members. For the moment, he welcomed their presence, but knew he would have to tell them. Okon and Omasu's eyes lit up at the sight of the bundle in Aoshi's arms. "Ohhhhhhhh! Aoshi, the baby has arrived!" Okon squealed.

Omasu looked around. "Where's the proud mother?"

Aoshi drew in a deep breath, determined to hold himself together. By now, Okina had joined the warriors outside. "Misao is." he looked away from them. "She's dead."

Five gasps could be heard. Okina made a cautious step closer. "Aoshi, w- what happened?"

Aoshi surprisingly kept his cool in this uncomfortable situation. "She died from blood loss.after having our son."

Within minutes, the two women were breaking down into tears. "Oh no.Misao- chan!"

Aoshi watched the old man from under his thick bangs, totally expecting him to fall head over feet. But no, Okina drew in a deep breath after a moment of silence and lifted his gaze up towards the infant. "Is the boy alright?"

"He will be." Aoshi answered, maintaining his terse answering.

Okon and Omasu recovered after a moment and came closer to peek at the baby. "He.looks just like her." Omasu whispered.

Aoshi allowed everyone to gather around, including Shiro and Kuro, who had been quietly waiting in the back. But then, he parted away from them and headed for the house, shoulders sagging a bit.

"Aoshi-san!" Okon and Omasu both ran after him. "Aoshi-san, we will see to his care now."

He stopped, but didn't turn to face them.

"That's a good idea." Okina agreed, voice surprisingly low. "You must be tired, Aoshi."

Shiro and Kuro nodded. "Yeah, we can watch the kid for you, while you rest up." Shiro said.

Aoshi felt relieved over their willingness. For some reason, he wasn't sure at first if they would accept the boy. He was almost worried that maybe they blamed Genichi for Misao's absence. To hear their immediate willingness reminded him of their undying loyalty.

Though no smile appeared in his face, Aoshi gratefully handed his bundle over to Omasu. "He was last fed an hour ago." He said simply.

Okina led him inside before waving everyone else in. "Come on now, let's go."

But Aoshi stopped as he reached the door. "One more thing. Misao's funeral will be tomorrow."

Silence and then the reply. "Hai, sir."

Then Okon spoke up. "Um.Aoshi-san. What is your son's.?"

Aoshi proceeded up the stairs. "Genichi," he replied and went to his room. The rest of his group faded down the hall, taking Aoshi's son with them.

Once his door was shut behind him, Aoshi stumbled over to his futon and allowed himself to collapse onto it. Not even bothering to change into his night wear, he fell into a deep slumber, his mind relieved for the moment. He knew his son was safe in the care of his group. Misao had been raised under their care and now Genichi was as well.

Next chapter- four years into the future!!!