Author's Note:
Hi. Yet another fun and informative chapter of my epic. Heh heh. I've been
very productive, but that only produces more demand. lesson from history
my friends
The Ginza of Tokyo is one of the most glamorous and hottest urban centers in the world. I've even seen it. This all begins in the Meiji era, when the first western clothing companies start coming to Japan. The hottest fashions, newest technology all can still be found here. The Ginza is still a hot spot today. I recommend everyone see it too! I can only imagine what it must have been like walking those streets in those women in kimono and in western bustles and corsets, shirtwaists, and even short skirts and pants ^^; I have a fondness for such periods in history, when cultures begin to overlap
I was able to find a few book on the silk trade in my Japanese History Class. "Sammurai and Silk" the story of a prominent Japanese Family during the First World War, in America and in Japan. Dry reading for most fanfic readers, but still, it is good Non-fiction.
BTW you can skip my little dull history lesson in italics between the sections marked with a dash (ei. "-------------") and hopefully italicized
Part Three: Put your Sunday Clothes
Beneath your parasol, the world is all a smile
That makes you feel brand new down to your toes
Get out your feathers
Your patent leathers
Your beads and buckles and bows
For there's no blue Monday in your Sunday clothes!
Kaoru could have turned blue she was so angry. Eventually she could no longer stand the silence of her own room. She cast off her quilt, and grabbed a lantern, perhaps it was excessive, but she was in bare feet. Kenshin had actually closed his eyes, when Kaoru opened his door. She had thought he ran away himself for the evening.
Kaoru hissed in his ear, "Kenshin. KENSHIN!"
"Mmmmm. I'll do it later." Kenshin rolled over.
"Kenshin. Yahiko. Yahiko is still not home."
"Uh." Kenshin's face was pressed into his pillow
"Kenshin wake up. Yahiko is still out"
Kenshin rubbed his face, "I believe I heard you say you did not care."
"I don't need this right now," Kaoru said, "He could be hurt."
Kenshin yawned fluffy his pillow. "I told you to apologize."
"And let him win?"
"And then let him win?" Kenshin almost actually mocked her. "What is your problem, Kaoru?"
"He defied me. He disobeyed, after everything we did to him. It's past three o'clock and he's not home yet."
"I would doubt he would be home to morning the way that you two were arguing." Kenshin said. His words mushy were from sleep and informal. He was too sleepy to even use "de gozaru," It was endearing to see him perturbed and cranky. Kenshin was an early riser, but he always went to bed quite early.
"He started it." Kaoru "Did you hear what he called me? I'm his master. I took him in, took care of him. Fed him.. I taught him everything he knows. And he acts like I don't matter."
"You don't?" Kenshin asked.
Kaoru became animated, "You know what it is. He thinks that I love you and not him." She pointed towards him as he tried to sit up.
"He does?" Kenshin asked again.
"He thinks I don't care. I think he doesn't care. My head is spinning so much I can't sleep." Kaoru said. She paced in the room. "I mean I don't know anymore. It's like no matter what I do. No matter how old I get, no one gives me any. respect.
Kenshin lifted up a corner of his quilt. She looked down and climbed in grumbling under her breath. But soon he spooned her nuzzling her with his cold chin in her neck. He hummed in her ear trying to settle her nerves.
"I don't know how I feel. I don't know what to do." Kaoru grumbled.
"What can anybody do? I only know that, but after what you said he will not be the same. You have said something he will never forget. I only hope he can have the wisdom to forgive you, that I do." Kenshin said
"Now you're going to lay in on me," She pressed his nose as she spoke. "I get enough criticism in this house. I will do what I want. That's the way it's always been."
Kenshin said nothing, looking at her with his soft warm eyes. Kaoru sighed.
"And if I am wrong, I'll pay for it. I'll do better." Kaoru said to him as a whisper.
"Kaoru, I love you."
Kaoru said, "Why is it you only tell me this sort of thing when I'm mad."
"Because it quiets your foul temper." Kenshin whispered. "Some one told me, he did not make our choice, but he suffers because of it."
"You're depressing as Aoshi tonight." Kaoru rolled around to hold him "At least I have you talking seriously for once."
"Well then we had better stop all of this morose behavior, I do believe." Kenshin kissed behind her ear.
Kaoru closed her eyes.
"Maybe you will be, if we start. It will get your mind off all this sadness." Kenshin said.
"You never talk seriously about anything. Everything is a big joke for you."
"I do not want you to be cross. You should be happy.
"I'm still mad at Yahiko. You can't . wooo."
"Not even if I tickle you."
"No." She shoved him "You're a pig sometimes."
Kenshin snorted, pressing up his nose.
"Ooof. Get off me."
As they settled into a more comfortable position, the knocker for the front gate sounded loudly. Kaoru stood up immediately and rushed out of the room. Kenshin took a little longer to rouse.
As they passed the Shinomoris roused awake, still after all this time. Perhaps they were talking. Misao opened the door to their room.
"What is it?" Lady Shinomori rubbed her eyes, her nemaki[1] wrinkled and far too loose on her body.
"Yahiko has been carousing all night, he has." Kenshin shook his head
"Boy he's sure changed from the little boy I knew." Misao shook her head and cinched her belt.
"I'm sorry, Misao. Please try to go to sleep. We will handle this quietly, that we will."
Misao yawned, "Its fine. Just keep it quiet then."
"I fear if I'm not the one to punish Yahiko, Kaoru may kill him." Kenshin whispered.
***
Kaoru growled as she fumbled with the lock on the front gate. Too tired and cross to operate the key. When it wouldn't go in the lock she bashed the keys against the door in frustration, cursing the stupid keys
Kenshin smiled nervously and took the keys from her. He opened the door "It is a visitor. Find something more suitable to wear, while I greet them."
"That little-" Kaoru grumbled.
"Kaoru I will"
"Don't." Kaoru jabbed him in the chest "Don't you protect him Kenshin. He has got some explaining to do."
Kaoru rushed out into the street in her wrinkled nemaki, unbound hair and bare feet to greet strangers.
The second she saw Yahiko she began shouting.
"How dare you disobey? I have never been so angry!"
Kenshin noticed the other was in fact a policeman, and not any policeman
Yahiko looked at her with large exhausted eyes. "Kaoru I-"
Kaoru swatted him on the shoulder "and you come home with a police man? You are never seeing those no good friends of yours again. You aren't seeing anyone. I have never been so furious with you!"
And at this Yahiko whimpered. He began weeping and covering his face.
Kaoru was shocked into silence. Kenshin realized that Yahiko was a sturdy boy not about to cry over being scolded, and he had been so argumentative lately he normally shouted back.
"I'm sorry Kaoru." His voice trembled. He fists pressing his tears into his face.
"Yahiko."
"Yahiko, what is-" Kenshin came from the shadows, also in his nemaki, also loosened.
The policeman came from the shadows, with an all too familiar voice "We're not here because Yahiko was late for his curfew." It was Saito Hajime who brought him home. "I think he was headed home at a decent hour when I first saw him tonight. That is a family matter."
Yahiko collected himself "Someone burned Mr. Komiyoji's house down."
"What? How could that be? I don't believe it." Kenshin said.
"I wouldn't lie to get out of trouble. Why do you think everything I say is a lie?" Yahiko shouted angrily. "Nobody ever trusts me." At least he was getting back to normal.
The cop tsked. "The boy is telling the truth." Saito said, sharply. "He assisted the police in rescuing the old man. And then matters became complicated."
"Complicated? How could it be more complicated then that?" Kaoru said.
"I saw the one that set the fire." Yahiko said, still trying to hold in his emotions. "There was a boy there all dressed in black, he was shorter than I was. And he was burning something. I couldn't stop him. Saito couldn't stop him. He ."
Yahiko broke down again
"Oh my word." Even Kaoru's maternal sense was activated, and gave him a hug "Your arm. Yahiko, come in here."
Yahiko sniffed, "He was burning a parcel so the police would not find it."
"It was three heads. of dead men," Saito said.
Kenshin went cold and without his knowledge cursed under his breath "Oh Kami-sama. Preserve us."
Yahiko wiped his eyes, "I'm okay. I'm fine now. I was just tired."
Saito looked directly at Kenshin.
"It is not often a crime of this brutality is committed. But it does happen. Yahiko was merely implicated. It is not his fault. He acted bravely and fought very well."
"Thank you for your help Saito-san." Yahiko said.
"Now I was wondering if the suspect had any identifiable markings or- "
Yahiko trembled. "I don't. I-"
Kaoru forced her way between the cop and the shuddering Yahiko, "Can't you see he's been hurt?" Kaoru drew Yahiko into the courtyard. He's trembling he's so tired. It's three o'clock in the morning! Mr. Saito I think that you should go back and ask Yahiko in the morning. The boy is exhausted. You can ask him tomorrow."
Saito sighed and nodded, "In the morning when he have rested and dealt with your arm, we will want to speak with you again."
"Thank you Saito-san." Yahiko muttered.
At this the gates of the Kamiya Dojo slammed shut for the last time that day.
***
Yahiko never thought his bed would look so good. He stripped off his gi[2] and tried to change into his nemaki, but it was too painful. The youth hissed on his last attempt, His arm wasn't swelling up, but still, he felt that wall he broke through. Kaoru padded in. Seeing it hurt him to change his clothes, she silently helped him put on his sleeping clothes. Yahiko said nothing.
Kaoru turned him a round and straightened his robe. "Yahiko."
"Hmm?"
"Yahiko, I should trust you. You did very well for our school. You saved an innocent man. You are a credit." Kaoru took a deep cleansing breath. "I wasn't really."
"Yeah." Yahiko cut her off, both of them were not prone to displays of sentimentality. Kaoru patted him on the shoulder.
"You know," Yahiko stopped her before she could leave "Kenshin might have taught us a lot about swords and fighting," Yahiko nodded "but when it came down, it was your teaching that helped me. That shouting trick worked."
Kaoru said "Really? I always thought my father was crazy when he thought that one up."
They both chuckled, for the first time in a long while they shared a peaceful moment. Yahiko smiled "Maybe my fearsome cry frightened him."
He laughed and rested his head on Kaoru's shoulder. But his control slipping as his laughter became hysteria, tears started to come out, despite his laughter.
"I can't get the horrible image out of my mind." Yahiko said rubbing his eyes, with the palm of his hand. He looked like a small boy, even smaller then when they first met.
"You need to rest, eventually to forget. You're over tired," Kaoru stroked his back.
"Well I'm the only one who saw him up close, you know." Yahiko shook his head "I could see the color of his eyes. Saito only was protecting me. I don't think I can forget him." Yahiko's breath was choppy and uneven, "I've never seen death like that. I've seen people sick and I've seen a funeral. but they were butchered. It hurts my heart." Yahiko paused looked to her asking for an answer, searching her eyes "How could men do this thing? I can understand the need to kill but this is."
"We'll help them find this intruder. It would be the right thing to do," Kaoru said "But only after you get a good rest. I don't want to lose one of my best assistant masters."
"But-" Yahiko said "Kaoru, I did not tell the police I heard him mutter a magic incantation under his breath," Yahiko said. "There is no such thing. It sounded like magic."
"What was it?" Kaoru asked "Can you remember it? Perhaps it may be a clue."
"Shukuchi." Yahiko said simply.
"Shukuchi?" Kaoru repeated. "That was it?"
"Kaoru-sensei do you know what it is?" Yahiko asked.
Kaoru looked at him, oddly raising her eyebrows in shock. "My word."
"What is it Sensei?" Yahiko got a worried look on his face.
"Are you sure that fight didn't rattle your brain?" She tapped his head with her knuckles, smiling. "Treating your master with respect."
Yahiko snorted.
Kaoru had studied the martial arts for a long time, reading books and acquiring the ancient knowledge. In fact her rooms were full of such texts and treatises.
"Shukuchi. "Kaoru repeated to herself.
Yahiko rolled his eyes as he settled into bed. "I'll just ask Kenshin, if you don't know."
Kaoru was about to swat him she chuckled "Kenshin doesn't know everything." She pulled the blanket to his chin.
Yahiko "Why don't you ask him before you go to your room? I mean he's all the way out there." Yahiko said off handedly "Maybe he's getting lonely all alone."
"Hmm." Kaoru raised her eyebrow inquisitively.
"I'm just a fly on the wall. I don't know anything. I don't hear anything." Yahiko turned over on his good side. Kaoru knew that it was as close to acceptance he would ever get from him. He might be offended and hurt, but he did love them both.
"I haven't been tucked in since I was little boy."
"Don't get used to it." Kaoru kissed him on the forehead, causing him to grimace. She chuckled.
Kaoru eventually made it to the guest house, stepped delicately into the room. A shinobi on an assassination mission could not duplicate the grace of Kaoru in her own home.
"Kenshin."
Kenshin was asleep already.
"Kenshin wake up."
He breathed uneasy as she spoke, but still slept.
Kaoru frowned. She had thought that he would be in a more amorous mood. Considering his offer this evening. On the other hand that had been before the party, and definitely before Yahiko had been attacked. Kenshin was curled up on the mat sleeping. Kaoru left for her room, brushing the hair out of his eyes
Kenshin turned over when Kaoru left and sat up, he put his head in hands, and knew he should have been weeping as Yahiko could.
The Shukuchi, the Ultimate speed technique that even he had not found a counter defense for. He felt so cold. He could not breathe. Soujiro was in Tokyo as we spoke, he was in Tokyo now. What kind of beast could have done such a brutal and evil thing?
He did not know where these heads had come from. Maybe he hadn't killed them. They could have been dead already. And he was only-
Kenshin kicked himself for his idiocy. What matter where the head had come from? What kind of monster did such things?
He was working now. He had accepted his emotion. Kenshin knew deeply that Soujiro was a changed person.
Just what kind of work did he do for Mitsumori? A rich man may have enemies, may need bodyguards and assassins. And the money would be worth it. For a person of Soujiro's unusual temperament, such a job would have been seductive. And he seemed very well employed.
He would need to find the boy right away. He needed answers from the boy himself. Saito was no fool, and he would kill Soujiro the second he found out he was in Tokyo, rather than risk that immense power going unchecked. But he knew nothing of the Shukuchi technique, except by Hearsay. The instant he knew that the killer used that technique he would be all over Soujiro like white on rice.
After the murder no one would question Saito's judgment, it seemed sense to Kenshin's tired mind.
He must not reveal he knew anything about the Shukuchi. So that he could find Soujiro. It would have to be. Kaoru was a problem. Her knowledge of arcane arts was very high. She had read much on the subject. He could only hope she would be too busy to double check it.
***
The day dawned on a new morning. Mr. Komiyoji and his sons were picking over the remains of their house that day.
But at the Kamiya dojo breakfast was being served much later then sunrise. It had to be expected after such a tiring day. Even Kenshin slept in that day. The guests ate hearty, as Kaoru prepared them all a large breakfast. For Miss Megumi had decided to drop by. The Shinomoris were eager to relate the incident last night at the Komiyoji house. Megumi said she would look after Yahiko's arm. Yahiko was still asleep. Hopefully lots of rest would heal his scarred memory. Yahiko had never seen deaths like that before. So brutal.
"Wow. This is a most wonderful breakfast Miss Kaoru." Misao said "I wouldn't have known you were such a good cook."
Lord Aoshi cleared his throat. "What shall we do today, Misao?"
"I have it. Lord Aoshi. We shall go shopping. All of us. In the Ginza."
"Oh my." Kenshin said "I think that is fun, that I do."
"I don't know. Today is going to be busy. Yahiko is too injured to teach his classes."
"Well then perhaps you should cancel that class until you find a replacement," Misao tugged on her arm.
"Well-" Kaoru's resolve weakened. "No Yahiko is hurt and."
Misao continued chattering, "That is where they have those fancy depaato's[3] on the cutting edge of fashion. Avant-Garde as the French say."
"Hmm." Aoshi grunted.
"The negative emotions in this house should be purged for a time, "Misao shook her head. "The business with the fire and the fight and the party."
Megumi pouted.
"I mean the unpleasantness at the party." Misao chuckled nervously.
"Yahiko needs his rest. You shouldn't be bothering him too much anyway. He can make his own choices," Megumi advised.
"Just as long as you clear the evening." Aoshi said
"What are we doing tonight?" Misao hugged him.
"Well it's a surprise." Aoshi smiled, trying to shrug her off.
"Well then what shall I wear? Kimono or western, should I dress formal, semi formal? Business casual?"
Aoshi drank his tea.
"Well you know." Misao scratched her chin "there is a German Opera company in the city. Aoshi said it is the newest one too. It's so wonderful. I saw the first one in Peking." Misao smiled.
"Western Opera, oh my how exciting." Kenshin commented, with his first smile of the day. "Is it very different from our opera?"
"It is louder," Aoshi said. "It is impressive. Like an army of musicians."
"It's marvelous Kenshin. Violins and pianos and trumpets. If only you could hear it. And they also play it on the Vitrolas. Aoshi is an expert on Western music now since they have the vitrolas. Misao cuddled his stiff arm. Aoshi sat impassively. He was not demonstrative. Only his left arm chose to participate in the cuddling.
"Hmm." Aoshi said.
"We need to find you a dress for the opera. It will be wonderful," Misao squealed enthusiastically.
"I don't have that kind of money. For a whole new dress."
"Please please. How can you go to a fancy Western Opera in a kimono? You'd stick out like a sore thumb. You can borrow my fancy slippers and I'll do your hair up."
"I never wear my hair up." Kaoru said.
"We'll give you a western hair style. They are simple with lots of curls, in the front."
"Oh my kimonos are very fine; they belonged to my mother and my aunt. They've been in the family forever. I just don't wear western clothes. I spend most of my day training in the dojo. I don't even have the time to shop for that sort of thing."
"I have it. Aoshi-san can buy you a beautiful dress, and you can wear it."
"What?" Kaoru shook her head "Unthinkable he is our guest."
"To repay the kindness you have shown us," Aoshi bowed "I will ask a favor in return, at a future date." Aoshi continued eating "It is one less piece of clothing in the world for Misao to buy."
Kaoru shrugged, "Maybe it's too much of a bother."
Misao shook her head, "We don't know anybody in Tokyo but you. And I couldn't bear to think you wouldn't have the chance to come."
"I-"Kaoru's defenses were falling apart.
"It is also your birthday tomorrow. Misao might not be here to give you a present." Kenshin went in for the kill; he was still as ruthless as ever.
"Your birthday, well you must come and let us get you a fine birthday present."
"It would be rude to break Misao's heart like that," Kenshin said.
"You're being a good friend, and spending the day having fun. What fun is there if I go shopping alone?" Misao asked.
"Kenshin." Kaoru looked helplessly. The whole day with the energetic and chattering Misao might be more than the young martial artist could bear.
"It would be an extraordinary favor to ask." Aoshi smirked.
It was ungodly how generous Misao was being Aoshi was sure, but better that she accept than endure her badgering. She could be quite rude sometimes.
"Make sure to by a dress at least as half as beautiful as you are." Kenshin clasped her hands.
Aoshi rolled his eyes. Misao hummed "Well Danno. Don't you have anything sweet to say to me?"
"Why don't you just buy two dresses?" Aoshi said.
"Cheeky." Misao kissed him on his face.
Kenshin laughed. Who would have thought Aoshi would have a sense of humor? ****
Of course, for some reason, the girls insisted that they changed before they went shopping for new clothes. Kaoru who was probably put on by Misao's "generosity" decided to wear one of her dead aunt's fine silk kimonos, so she would not feel like a beggar. It was dark blue with a beautiful golden cranes and lavender birds on it. And her expensive silken obi with shining gold thread with orange blossoms. It was a sedate color for an older woman, but still she was a beauty. She didn't have the time to put up her hair, so she piled into a manly topknot and pushed a pin through it, like a farmer's wife. While her hair may have been messy, now one could have noticed with her fair moon shaped face.
Misao was dressed very well. In fact her clothes were western. She had a grey dress with blue lace along the collar and sleeves, and a matching hat. She looked incredibly sophisticated and smart, modanu gaaru,[4] as Aoshi whispered. She was no longer a tomboy for sure, but the wife of an important lord and the top tier of Kyoto society.
And soon they all were off, with two smartly dressed ladies and their parasols behind them, on a beautiful day walking down the Ginza, gawking at every little thing that passed. He looked over to Aoshi for support as the girls dawdled behind them at the flower stand. They stood waiting. Aoshi remained impassive.
"We should just let the girls walk in front, so we can push them along," Kenshin tapped his foot.
"It is bad luck for women to walk before the men," Aoshi reminded Kenshin.
Kenshin stifled a chuckle, "Yes but I think I can afford a little bad luck if it will get us done faster."
"Do you want them running all over the place? I don't relish this." Aoshi admitted. "It's kind of emasculating, waiting for your wife to finish shopping while you stand there," Aoshi tapped his foot on the floor "You see why I trust Misao to go shopping on her own."
"Well it is a treat for them." Kenshin said. Kaoru does deserve a break from life at the dojo."
Soon Kaoru and Misao were immured themselves in fine bolts of silk and satin and lace.
"I do not think that I am in the mood for shopping anymore." Kenshin said not even turning his head, "And neither are you."
Aoshi smirked at Kenshin "Honto ni.[5]" Kenshin nodded in agreement.
"You are the one who lives here. Why don't I leave the decision of what we shall do up to you?" Aoshi looked over at him.
"I don't need to involve you. It is your vacation," Kenshin smiled. "I'm sure you'd much rather go shopping with your wife."
Aoshi gave him an odd look, and then shook his head laughing.
"No you don't to involve me. But I could ease your burden. Good Karma is more important than seeing the sights." Aoshi quipped.
"Hmmm." Kenshin sighed.
"We came here to be with those Misao calls friends, what would it be if we did not help them when they were in trouble?" Aoshi postulated, bowing slightly. "What is the problem?"
"The fire last night," Kenshin admitted, "And Yahiko's fire starter."
"I figured as much. You wish to find out who did this?" Aoshi asked.
"Yes and I have more clues. Then I had before." Kenshin said.
"What do you mean more-"
Their conversation was interrupted as Misao shoved a piece of cloth in Aoshi's face.
"Danno. What do you think of this one? You can't find this sort of double print in Kyoto. Look at that stitching."
"It costs an arm and a leg." Kaoru shook her head
"I think it's perfect. It's high quality too. You wouldn't need to buy one in ten years," Misao argued.
Kaoru snorted "I think that taffeta isn't a good idea."
"It's a present for my Grandpa." Misao said.
"Actually, I think we'll go about our own business." Aoshi removed the cloth from his face. "There is something I have to see while I'm in Tokyo. Kenshin said he would take me to see them."
Misao scrunched her brow. "Are you sure?"
"Oh Honestly Misao, can't you see your husband is trying to surprise you?" Kaoru shook her head.
"I'd say they were up to something else." Misao said. She always did have sharp eyes and highly tuned instincts.
"We'll come to see you at Five o'clock. We should be done by then." Kaoru grabbed Misao's wrist.
"That would be most convenient Miss Kaoru." Aoshi bowed.
"I'll keep Misao out of your hair until then Lord Aoshi." Kaoru winked at him and smiled.
"What is that supposed to mean?" Misao frowned as Kaoru lead her off.
"Goodbye girls." Kenshin waved at them, appearing like a lovesick husband, but really waiting until the girls were far ahead.
He and Aoshi left the store whispering "Yahiko told Kaoru that this attacker Shukuchi Above Super Speed technique, he did not tell this to the police because he thought it was nonsense."
"That is troubling," Aoshi closed his eyes "It is a very powerful technique," Aoshi sighed.
Kenshin's smile was cracking at the edges. "Yet it makes it far easier to find out who did this crime."
Aoshi nodded, "While it does reduce our list of subjects, many know this technique."
"But only one in Tokyo on the same night." Kenshin said. "Soujiro Seta is in Tokyo."
Aoshi took a long breath, "Well then he would be the prime suspect." Aoshi straightened his gloves "We shall find him before the girls are shopping, and turn him into Captain Saito." Lord Aoshi said
"No. We don't know anything." Kenshin stopped him "We don't know what has happened."
"We have dead men, we have a fire to destroy the evidence, and we have an advanced sword technique only a few men have mastered," Aoshi counted off on his fingers. And even if he was innocent Soujiro's skills make him a dangerous threat. He should not be roaming about anyway."
"Aoshi," Kenshin grasped his arm now, emphatically pleading his case. "It could be that he has given up his old ways, that it was someone else who did these crimes."
"And would still be a threat. And should be watched," Aoshi said colorlessly, removing his arm from Kenshin's. Kenshin knew he must appeal to Aoshi's sense of honor as evasive as that was.
Aoshi surprised him turning to him, "If he has done nothing, he should not be punished. But Saito will kill him if only to protect the city. He believes that an eye should be taken for an eye as the gaijin say."
"Taking an eye? What an odd expression." Kenshin mused.
"Never mind," Aoshi sighed. "He will demand savage retribution. Aku zoku san.[6]"
"We must know what is going on," Kenshin insisted. "I won't send him for a crime we do not know he committed."
Aoshi looked him in the eye. "Together we will stop Soujiro, and then turn him into the police if we feel him guilty. I swear this."
"We have no right to judge him." Kenshin said
"I think the Hittokiri Battousai and the Okashira of the Onwinbara have more right than most to judge if a man is a killer or not," Aoshi responded.
"But perhaps less," Kenshin lowered his gaze.
"Fine," Aoshi huffed. "We will leave it to the law to decide, let us stop these semantics and find him. We will decide what to do after."
***
The palanquin moved quickly through the streets of Tokyo. Past stores and shops, and private houses, to the very edge of town, where the great factories lie, like a city of tombs. They left their palanquins and began conversing.
Kenshin spoke through the curtain. "I have received very little information only that he works for the Mitsumori Company, for Yukio Mitsumori."
"That should be in the Industrial sector. It shouldn't take too long to find." Aoshi said.
***
The stone buildings towered above them like a square giants reaching up to the sky. He had never seen such a massive building up so close before. He had seen buildings in the distance. Most of the buildings he had seen were homes, even palaces, all open for human habitation. But never had they seemed so impassive, as a square mountain would. There was no nature about, except for a growing plume of smoke, from the tower.
"This is the place." Aoshi pointed to the sign.
"We will go in there and find the boss, Mr. Mitsumori.." Kenshin declared.
Aoshi held him back, "These are not like the factories in the country." Aoshi corrected. "Many of the employees are girls. There are heavy machines, and the doors are locked. There may even be security to keep all the workers in line."
"What is this? They are only making cloth. Nonsense," Kenshin grumbled.
"There is decorum. If we act correctly I'm sure they will help us find Soujiro." Aoshi said.
"Well then perhaps we should split up. I can look in the factory for the boss, and you may use your influence there," Kenshin pointed towards the door. "One of us should find Mr. Mitsumori."
Dust entered Kenshin's lungs as Aoshi opened the door; he coughed and wiped off his lips. Grey black machines clanked above them and blue grey light filtered from the outside.
"Just don't get into trouble." Aoshi closed the door behind them.
Kenshin could not believe the scale of the building. Nearly three stories high with huge glass windows, the walls brick, with a patina of dust. It seemed from the inside as if it was an underground cavern. The lack of sunlight and fresh air also added to this.
"I am Lord Aoshi Shinomori and this is my assistant, Kenshin Himura. I wish to know if."
Kenshin had expected he would be quiet prepared to enter a silk factory. He had once worked for a short time in the silk farm. He should have known better when they actually offered him a wage for his work. But he had been light in the purse.
The silk trade was thankless work and he spent once 20 hours at his seat, killing the silk worms until his hands were green with worm blood. They had given him an easy job, fit for unskilled person. He kept his head down and most assumed him a young girl.
After the season he took he wages and headed for the road again, more aware of the lives others lead. He would have never expected himself into a factory again. It hurt his soul, despite the steady wage it brought. He had great respect for the artisans who made silk.
Now, in this place, the high ceilings and the noise hurt him. In some ways, Kenshin was a weak man. How much strength it took for these young women to tolerate this life.
The girls watched him sullenly as he walked towards them. Each one hunched over a machine. The machine moving faster then thought a relentless grind of gears and metal clicking and hissing like a swarm of insects. He turned to a woman sitting upon the stool nearest to him. "Pardon me Miss. If I might know who the boss is. I have to."
"Shhh." She hissed at him.
Kenshin was taken aback. My word, this must be the busy time of the year, if they couldn't answer a simple question.
"Forgive me miss," Kenshin bowed.
He walked to another girl who didn't even look at him. Then to another. "Miss?"
"No talking. Please sir! Get out of here." She told him bluntly.
"I'll wait outside until you can take a break," Kenshin said.
The girls stared at him with anger and frustration, with due reason he supposed. The girls did not have time to get a sip of water or go outside to take a breath of air. It made Kenshin dizzy and sick in the factory after only a half an hour. One would think with such efficiency there would be time to breath.
He sat and sat and sat some more, while the girls silently worked.
Sat and sat, as Aoshi was elsewhere. How could a body stand such an environment? He shook himself.
"I need some air." Kenshin brushed the hair out of his eyes
"It's very warm in here." Kenshin fanned himself. "I'll use the stool to prop the door open."
"Sir, The doors are locked from this side." The girl said, fearfully, "You can't "
Kenshin tried to open the door. But it was locked from the outside. It seemed ridiculous. How could the workers get out of the building?
He took out a piece of wire from behind his back and with barely a moment's attention the door popped open.
"Close that door."
A huge man in a company shirt and a big stick in his hand came running
Kenshin realized "It was warm in here. I thought it would be nice to get some air in here. I'm sorry if I-"
"Hmm. Close that door." The man shoved him to the ground.
"Oro." Kenshin said toppled onto the ground.
"Listen bitch get back to work and I won't kick your ass." He shouted straight into Kenshin's face. Kenshin trembled a little. What a terrifying fellow, no wonder the girls were too afraid to move or breathe.
"I do not work here. I'm sorry for the misunderstanding." Kenshin tried to conceal his temper.
"Shut up. Or you'll get more of the back of my hand."
"I'm here with Lord Aoshi. I need to speak to Mr. Mitsumori.""
The man held up his hand getting ready to smack him again. But then he paused. "Oh my gods. You're a boy."
"I'm sorry."
"I'll say, you little whimp."
"I'm sorry to be so rude." Kenshin grunted clutching his stomach "I just thought it would be more comfortable with the door open." Kenshin snapped very crossly, there was only so much abuse a body could take.
"You leave that door closed, little boy." He slapped Kenshin's hand like a misbehaving child.
"Why?"
"If I do that these lazy bitches will want to go outside and smoke their cigarettes and laze about all morning."
Kenshin was still more shocked. The girls had not even moved from their benches.
Kenshin straightened his shirt. "I'm sure with your outstanding motivation they will continue working hard." He glared at the man, the sarcasm escaped the brute.
"First they complain it's too cold in here, in the winter so we get heat for them. Those fans are far too much money."
"But opening the door is free." Kenshin looked at him "That solves your problem."
"You shut that door close now or I will kick your sorry ass." The man poked one finger into his shoulder.
"I just want to see the one in charge. His name is Mr. Mitsumori. Is he here now?"
"Mr. Mitsumori doesn't come down here." The brute laughed "Stupid shit. Don't you know anything?"
Kenshin was confused, "But this is Mitsumori Silk, I thought he was in charge of the company."
"Upstairs. His manager's office. But Mitsumori ain't here. Did you just fall off the pumpkin patch?" The brute got in his face "Who are you? Ya Stupid Shit? You aren't one of them union snoops."
Kenshin almost heard his own voice whimper. "I'm not from anywhere. I just want to meet with Mr. Mitsumori. I have something very important to ask him."
"I don't like you union folk. Stirring the girls up, causing trouble. We won't have none of that here."
The brute yanking on his long hair, until Kenshin yelped. He heaved him in the air, by his shoulders and carried him several feet.
Then he aimed for the open door onto the dust below. Kenshin flailed his arms and crashed into the ground.
"Stay out!" He shouted.
The door slammed. He had been thrown out of Mr. Mitsumori's factory "Well he must be very important to hire such strong enforcers." Kenshin dusted himself off. Perhaps Kenshin shouldn't have been so polite and let the brute throw him out.
Kenshin stood up, extremely embarrassed.
"I thought you were going in the factory, looking for the manager."
"It was too dusty. So I opened the door, then a gust of hot air shoved me outside again." Kenshin said frowning.
"Hmm. Well Mr. Mitsumori is far too important to come into his factory, everyday."
"More important than everyone else in that building, that I see." Kenshin said, "Otherwise he might have hired more respectful people to run his company. I am starting to dislike that man and I have not even met him, I must say."
"Mr. Mitsumori's manager has no idea who Soujiro is. I gave him the description of Soujiro. No one working in the factory meets that description"
"Or perhaps he is employed as an enforcer or something less that honorable," Kenshin said. "Someone in the employ of Mr. Mitsumori directly and not the company."
"It appears Soujiro will be harder to find then we thought than."
"He is in the city, and we will find him," Kenshin promised.
"But we must move on." Aoshi said.
"This is a dreadful place." Kenshin shook himself off and turned away from that awful part of town.
****
Soujiro Seta was on the other side of town, laying out beautiful silk dresses, and pair of gloves. Such a beautiful dress dark taffeta dress with a white bustle.
Outside the door were three gentlemen, well if gentleman could be so scruffy. In all honesty they looked like three hooligans, or three disreputable ruroni[7].
"Is Yumiko in?"
"Miss Yumiko," Soujiro corrected them.
"Whatever. She in, boy?"
"You must have more respect for a lady." Soujiro said.
"You must have more respect blahblablah." The first hooligan mocked him.
"Iie. She is not in. May I help you?" Soujiro said in a tone which obviously mean that he would never in a thousand years wish to ever help them.
"We want Mitsumori. We know from the streets Yumiko is his woman. He sees her in the afternoon."
"That is not a fit topic for conversation." Soujiro said lightly "I think you're very rude. Miss Yumiko's gentleman friends are her business."
"Look kid. Don't fuck with us." The oldest of the three, with a faint unwashed scent and a wool cap approached.
"Miss Yumiko is not in. And I don't think she wants to see you." Soujiro tried to make himself look as angry as possible, trying to scare them away.
"Is this the little punk that's supposed to take care of Miss Yumiko?" The first hooligan laughed.
"This little boy." One of them shoved him out of the way onto the floor.
"Stifle it." The filthy old man snarled.
The old man took a look at him. Regarding him very closely, "I knew I saw you. I heard about you, from the boys. I know all about you." The old man said.
Soujiro straightened up and tried to give him a very tough look back. Sometimes smiles did not protect you, and you had to pretend to be angry "So?" He said arrogantly.
The old man leaned in real close and grabbed him by the lapels on his jacket. "We ain't in the country no more. When we get ya. well we're gonna have to be really clever to get away from the cops." The old man touched his chin, cupping his face.
"See we have ways of pay back." The old man drew his knife and tapped the dull edge against Soujiro's cheek. He squirmed at the coldness. "You haven't seen anything yet. We take care of our own."
Soujiro with only a slight pout on his face, as the old man touched his cheek. He proceeded to grab a weapon while the old man threatened him. In the top of the drawer there must be something. He kept his eyes still so no one would notice. He knew the gun would be in reaching distance. The other hooligans laughed as he was being threatened.
Yukio told him once that shooting was a matter of watching hands and faces. They weren't looking at his hands, surely. They were watching his eyes, dilated and fearful and weak, and his face miming terror.
He grabbed a pistol and drew it. To him they appeared a bit shocked
"Stick'em up. Drop your knife."
They laughed, and advanced with their weapons.
"Are you gonna shoot us?" the hooligans in the back ground laughed heartily.
"Little skinny bitch like you, can't fire but once. It'll explode in your hand."
He could feel sweat pooling into his armpits and down his back. Yet despite this a strange thing happened to him.
He felt the smile curve on his face, despite his fear. He had no idea what was going on, but he could no longer control his reaction. He was totally frozen, as they walked towards him.
"I'll only need one shot to kill one of you."
"You can't handle that."
Soujiro's grin was so wide his face hurt, his breath was shallow, but his eyes were wild as the figures approached. He had nothing. He was only so big. He didn't know anything about grappling. But he knew there was no sword in his hand. He knew that he'd never hold a sword again. He knew he had slain that part of himself. He was no longer angry or scared.
Maybe facing these guys was scary, but not like the real fear. He could feel a brave grin on his face. Like in the old days. But this was a different world. This was a gun, not a sword. He would only fire it to protect himself. He wouldn't be like that again. He was different.
They weren't coming to kill him. They were only coming to find out about Yumiko, and hurt Yukio-san. And they'd kill him if they had the opportunity."
"Get out of here." Soujiro's hands trembled, "I'll call the cops. You'll go to jail."
"Oh if we go to jail its cause we are about to rip this fucking place to pieces."
"Starting with you, pretty boy." They all had their knives gleaming.
Soujiro felt himself whimper "Go away and leave me alone."
They closed in like wolves. He could feel their breath and smell their filthy bodies. Soujiro couldn't even breathe.
"Why you smiling? Wipe that stupid grin off your face!"
BANG!
The old man clutched his shoulder.
"Gomen Nasai![8]" Soujiro shouted.
"My shoulder! You crazy. I didn't think you'd. you looked so scared." The old man grunted in bestial pain.
"What in the hell'he do?"
"I'm sorry. I told you I would shoot." Soujiro lowered his gun.
The hooligans were frozen at the sound of the gun.
"I'll shoot again."
"He won't-"
"We can't tell. He didn't look like he'd do it the last time.
"I've never done this before." Soujiro cocked the pistol "I'll need practice. Even get out of here or I'll shoot you as well."
"He's still smiling. He just killed my Dad and he's still smiling." The hooligan was tempted to lunge for him "He's a monster."
"Let it go. That boy is crazy. Let it go or he'll kill us all."
The old man crumpled to the ground from pain. His cohorts dispersed, fleeing the scene.
Yukio Mitsumori knocked on the door, crying out "Yumiko! Yumiko!"
"Yukio." Soujiro cried to him. He threw aside the gun.
Yukio burst into the room. Soujiro almost threw himself at Yukio to hold him. Yukio would know what to say.
"These men came in here," Soujiro's voice was shaky.
"Calm down." He placed one hand on Soujiro's chest. "Here give me that gun." Yukio took the gun from him.
"I-"
"Don't argue with me." Yukio took off his kid gloves and touched it "You have a past with the police, I know this." Yukio took off his kid gloves and touched the hot gun. "They won't resent me for shooting a wicked man in my own building."
Yukio was a tall young man, strong, and his skin and his clothes were soft and smooth because he was born rich. He had a moustache. Soujiro wanted to wrap his arms around Yukio and just cry. But serious business was at hand, it was not real men did.
"They wanted to know about Yumiko. They. they."
"Calm yourself." Yukio patted his back, instead "All will be well. You did nothing wrong."
"What if. what.."
"We won't speak of it again," Yukio said. "I will call the police. They'll take him away."
"Yukio, he's hurt. A gunshot wound is surely fatal if he does not see a doctor."
"You have such a tender heart," Yukio said "He is a thief and probably a murderer."
"Please let us take him to the hospital," Soujiro said "Forget the police."
"The wretch should be glad we did not kill him or turn him into the police."
"Please sir. I don't wanna die. Just. get me out of here. I didn't see anything."
"You tell your friends to leave us alone," Yukio shouted. "That is the only reason why you are leaving here."
Yukio turned to Soujiro, rubbed his arm, "It's all over. How many times must I tell you?"
"Tell me again." Soujiro asked weakly.
"Do not worry. Where is that beautiful smile of yours? Please do not despair. I never want to see you sad," Yukio said, touching the dimple of his chin. "Please."
Soujiro gave his smile just for him.
----------------------- [1] Nemaki- Super fancy word for pajamas. Go read "Life's Battles" by Laura Gilkey. At www.shininghalf.com. Great Soujiro Story, about when he was a little nipper. Shishio is awesome in this. [2] Gi- hey it's a dude's kimono [3] Depaato- Department stores arrived in the Meiji period; this is what leads to the development of the world famous Ginza strip. That place is so Exciting! [4] Modern Girl, a shocking thing to say about a woman in those days. [5] "Re-he-he-he-eeally" as Ace Ventura would say. [6] "Slay all evil instantly" Sounds like A rock paper scissors game. [7]Ruroni- a wanderer, or a warrior without a master. If you need a definition of this word, you haven't been a fan long [8] Gomen- (ei Gomen Nasai, Gomen ne, etc) Forgiveness, politeness, favor. The most important phrase in Japanese
The Ginza of Tokyo is one of the most glamorous and hottest urban centers in the world. I've even seen it. This all begins in the Meiji era, when the first western clothing companies start coming to Japan. The hottest fashions, newest technology all can still be found here. The Ginza is still a hot spot today. I recommend everyone see it too! I can only imagine what it must have been like walking those streets in those women in kimono and in western bustles and corsets, shirtwaists, and even short skirts and pants ^^; I have a fondness for such periods in history, when cultures begin to overlap
I was able to find a few book on the silk trade in my Japanese History Class. "Sammurai and Silk" the story of a prominent Japanese Family during the First World War, in America and in Japan. Dry reading for most fanfic readers, but still, it is good Non-fiction.
BTW you can skip my little dull history lesson in italics between the sections marked with a dash (ei. "-------------") and hopefully italicized
Part Three: Put your Sunday Clothes
Beneath your parasol, the world is all a smile
That makes you feel brand new down to your toes
Get out your feathers
Your patent leathers
Your beads and buckles and bows
For there's no blue Monday in your Sunday clothes!
Kaoru could have turned blue she was so angry. Eventually she could no longer stand the silence of her own room. She cast off her quilt, and grabbed a lantern, perhaps it was excessive, but she was in bare feet. Kenshin had actually closed his eyes, when Kaoru opened his door. She had thought he ran away himself for the evening.
Kaoru hissed in his ear, "Kenshin. KENSHIN!"
"Mmmmm. I'll do it later." Kenshin rolled over.
"Kenshin. Yahiko. Yahiko is still not home."
"Uh." Kenshin's face was pressed into his pillow
"Kenshin wake up. Yahiko is still out"
Kenshin rubbed his face, "I believe I heard you say you did not care."
"I don't need this right now," Kaoru said, "He could be hurt."
Kenshin yawned fluffy his pillow. "I told you to apologize."
"And let him win?"
"And then let him win?" Kenshin almost actually mocked her. "What is your problem, Kaoru?"
"He defied me. He disobeyed, after everything we did to him. It's past three o'clock and he's not home yet."
"I would doubt he would be home to morning the way that you two were arguing." Kenshin said. His words mushy were from sleep and informal. He was too sleepy to even use "de gozaru," It was endearing to see him perturbed and cranky. Kenshin was an early riser, but he always went to bed quite early.
"He started it." Kaoru "Did you hear what he called me? I'm his master. I took him in, took care of him. Fed him.. I taught him everything he knows. And he acts like I don't matter."
"You don't?" Kenshin asked.
Kaoru became animated, "You know what it is. He thinks that I love you and not him." She pointed towards him as he tried to sit up.
"He does?" Kenshin asked again.
"He thinks I don't care. I think he doesn't care. My head is spinning so much I can't sleep." Kaoru said. She paced in the room. "I mean I don't know anymore. It's like no matter what I do. No matter how old I get, no one gives me any. respect.
Kenshin lifted up a corner of his quilt. She looked down and climbed in grumbling under her breath. But soon he spooned her nuzzling her with his cold chin in her neck. He hummed in her ear trying to settle her nerves.
"I don't know how I feel. I don't know what to do." Kaoru grumbled.
"What can anybody do? I only know that, but after what you said he will not be the same. You have said something he will never forget. I only hope he can have the wisdom to forgive you, that I do." Kenshin said
"Now you're going to lay in on me," She pressed his nose as she spoke. "I get enough criticism in this house. I will do what I want. That's the way it's always been."
Kenshin said nothing, looking at her with his soft warm eyes. Kaoru sighed.
"And if I am wrong, I'll pay for it. I'll do better." Kaoru said to him as a whisper.
"Kaoru, I love you."
Kaoru said, "Why is it you only tell me this sort of thing when I'm mad."
"Because it quiets your foul temper." Kenshin whispered. "Some one told me, he did not make our choice, but he suffers because of it."
"You're depressing as Aoshi tonight." Kaoru rolled around to hold him "At least I have you talking seriously for once."
"Well then we had better stop all of this morose behavior, I do believe." Kenshin kissed behind her ear.
Kaoru closed her eyes.
"Maybe you will be, if we start. It will get your mind off all this sadness." Kenshin said.
"You never talk seriously about anything. Everything is a big joke for you."
"I do not want you to be cross. You should be happy.
"I'm still mad at Yahiko. You can't . wooo."
"Not even if I tickle you."
"No." She shoved him "You're a pig sometimes."
Kenshin snorted, pressing up his nose.
"Ooof. Get off me."
As they settled into a more comfortable position, the knocker for the front gate sounded loudly. Kaoru stood up immediately and rushed out of the room. Kenshin took a little longer to rouse.
As they passed the Shinomoris roused awake, still after all this time. Perhaps they were talking. Misao opened the door to their room.
"What is it?" Lady Shinomori rubbed her eyes, her nemaki[1] wrinkled and far too loose on her body.
"Yahiko has been carousing all night, he has." Kenshin shook his head
"Boy he's sure changed from the little boy I knew." Misao shook her head and cinched her belt.
"I'm sorry, Misao. Please try to go to sleep. We will handle this quietly, that we will."
Misao yawned, "Its fine. Just keep it quiet then."
"I fear if I'm not the one to punish Yahiko, Kaoru may kill him." Kenshin whispered.
***
Kaoru growled as she fumbled with the lock on the front gate. Too tired and cross to operate the key. When it wouldn't go in the lock she bashed the keys against the door in frustration, cursing the stupid keys
Kenshin smiled nervously and took the keys from her. He opened the door "It is a visitor. Find something more suitable to wear, while I greet them."
"That little-" Kaoru grumbled.
"Kaoru I will"
"Don't." Kaoru jabbed him in the chest "Don't you protect him Kenshin. He has got some explaining to do."
Kaoru rushed out into the street in her wrinkled nemaki, unbound hair and bare feet to greet strangers.
The second she saw Yahiko she began shouting.
"How dare you disobey? I have never been so angry!"
Kenshin noticed the other was in fact a policeman, and not any policeman
Yahiko looked at her with large exhausted eyes. "Kaoru I-"
Kaoru swatted him on the shoulder "and you come home with a police man? You are never seeing those no good friends of yours again. You aren't seeing anyone. I have never been so furious with you!"
And at this Yahiko whimpered. He began weeping and covering his face.
Kaoru was shocked into silence. Kenshin realized that Yahiko was a sturdy boy not about to cry over being scolded, and he had been so argumentative lately he normally shouted back.
"I'm sorry Kaoru." His voice trembled. He fists pressing his tears into his face.
"Yahiko."
"Yahiko, what is-" Kenshin came from the shadows, also in his nemaki, also loosened.
The policeman came from the shadows, with an all too familiar voice "We're not here because Yahiko was late for his curfew." It was Saito Hajime who brought him home. "I think he was headed home at a decent hour when I first saw him tonight. That is a family matter."
Yahiko collected himself "Someone burned Mr. Komiyoji's house down."
"What? How could that be? I don't believe it." Kenshin said.
"I wouldn't lie to get out of trouble. Why do you think everything I say is a lie?" Yahiko shouted angrily. "Nobody ever trusts me." At least he was getting back to normal.
The cop tsked. "The boy is telling the truth." Saito said, sharply. "He assisted the police in rescuing the old man. And then matters became complicated."
"Complicated? How could it be more complicated then that?" Kaoru said.
"I saw the one that set the fire." Yahiko said, still trying to hold in his emotions. "There was a boy there all dressed in black, he was shorter than I was. And he was burning something. I couldn't stop him. Saito couldn't stop him. He ."
Yahiko broke down again
"Oh my word." Even Kaoru's maternal sense was activated, and gave him a hug "Your arm. Yahiko, come in here."
Yahiko sniffed, "He was burning a parcel so the police would not find it."
"It was three heads. of dead men," Saito said.
Kenshin went cold and without his knowledge cursed under his breath "Oh Kami-sama. Preserve us."
Yahiko wiped his eyes, "I'm okay. I'm fine now. I was just tired."
Saito looked directly at Kenshin.
"It is not often a crime of this brutality is committed. But it does happen. Yahiko was merely implicated. It is not his fault. He acted bravely and fought very well."
"Thank you for your help Saito-san." Yahiko said.
"Now I was wondering if the suspect had any identifiable markings or- "
Yahiko trembled. "I don't. I-"
Kaoru forced her way between the cop and the shuddering Yahiko, "Can't you see he's been hurt?" Kaoru drew Yahiko into the courtyard. He's trembling he's so tired. It's three o'clock in the morning! Mr. Saito I think that you should go back and ask Yahiko in the morning. The boy is exhausted. You can ask him tomorrow."
Saito sighed and nodded, "In the morning when he have rested and dealt with your arm, we will want to speak with you again."
"Thank you Saito-san." Yahiko muttered.
At this the gates of the Kamiya Dojo slammed shut for the last time that day.
***
Yahiko never thought his bed would look so good. He stripped off his gi[2] and tried to change into his nemaki, but it was too painful. The youth hissed on his last attempt, His arm wasn't swelling up, but still, he felt that wall he broke through. Kaoru padded in. Seeing it hurt him to change his clothes, she silently helped him put on his sleeping clothes. Yahiko said nothing.
Kaoru turned him a round and straightened his robe. "Yahiko."
"Hmm?"
"Yahiko, I should trust you. You did very well for our school. You saved an innocent man. You are a credit." Kaoru took a deep cleansing breath. "I wasn't really."
"Yeah." Yahiko cut her off, both of them were not prone to displays of sentimentality. Kaoru patted him on the shoulder.
"You know," Yahiko stopped her before she could leave "Kenshin might have taught us a lot about swords and fighting," Yahiko nodded "but when it came down, it was your teaching that helped me. That shouting trick worked."
Kaoru said "Really? I always thought my father was crazy when he thought that one up."
They both chuckled, for the first time in a long while they shared a peaceful moment. Yahiko smiled "Maybe my fearsome cry frightened him."
He laughed and rested his head on Kaoru's shoulder. But his control slipping as his laughter became hysteria, tears started to come out, despite his laughter.
"I can't get the horrible image out of my mind." Yahiko said rubbing his eyes, with the palm of his hand. He looked like a small boy, even smaller then when they first met.
"You need to rest, eventually to forget. You're over tired," Kaoru stroked his back.
"Well I'm the only one who saw him up close, you know." Yahiko shook his head "I could see the color of his eyes. Saito only was protecting me. I don't think I can forget him." Yahiko's breath was choppy and uneven, "I've never seen death like that. I've seen people sick and I've seen a funeral. but they were butchered. It hurts my heart." Yahiko paused looked to her asking for an answer, searching her eyes "How could men do this thing? I can understand the need to kill but this is."
"We'll help them find this intruder. It would be the right thing to do," Kaoru said "But only after you get a good rest. I don't want to lose one of my best assistant masters."
"But-" Yahiko said "Kaoru, I did not tell the police I heard him mutter a magic incantation under his breath," Yahiko said. "There is no such thing. It sounded like magic."
"What was it?" Kaoru asked "Can you remember it? Perhaps it may be a clue."
"Shukuchi." Yahiko said simply.
"Shukuchi?" Kaoru repeated. "That was it?"
"Kaoru-sensei do you know what it is?" Yahiko asked.
Kaoru looked at him, oddly raising her eyebrows in shock. "My word."
"What is it Sensei?" Yahiko got a worried look on his face.
"Are you sure that fight didn't rattle your brain?" She tapped his head with her knuckles, smiling. "Treating your master with respect."
Yahiko snorted.
Kaoru had studied the martial arts for a long time, reading books and acquiring the ancient knowledge. In fact her rooms were full of such texts and treatises.
"Shukuchi. "Kaoru repeated to herself.
Yahiko rolled his eyes as he settled into bed. "I'll just ask Kenshin, if you don't know."
Kaoru was about to swat him she chuckled "Kenshin doesn't know everything." She pulled the blanket to his chin.
Yahiko "Why don't you ask him before you go to your room? I mean he's all the way out there." Yahiko said off handedly "Maybe he's getting lonely all alone."
"Hmm." Kaoru raised her eyebrow inquisitively.
"I'm just a fly on the wall. I don't know anything. I don't hear anything." Yahiko turned over on his good side. Kaoru knew that it was as close to acceptance he would ever get from him. He might be offended and hurt, but he did love them both.
"I haven't been tucked in since I was little boy."
"Don't get used to it." Kaoru kissed him on the forehead, causing him to grimace. She chuckled.
Kaoru eventually made it to the guest house, stepped delicately into the room. A shinobi on an assassination mission could not duplicate the grace of Kaoru in her own home.
"Kenshin."
Kenshin was asleep already.
"Kenshin wake up."
He breathed uneasy as she spoke, but still slept.
Kaoru frowned. She had thought that he would be in a more amorous mood. Considering his offer this evening. On the other hand that had been before the party, and definitely before Yahiko had been attacked. Kenshin was curled up on the mat sleeping. Kaoru left for her room, brushing the hair out of his eyes
Kenshin turned over when Kaoru left and sat up, he put his head in hands, and knew he should have been weeping as Yahiko could.
The Shukuchi, the Ultimate speed technique that even he had not found a counter defense for. He felt so cold. He could not breathe. Soujiro was in Tokyo as we spoke, he was in Tokyo now. What kind of beast could have done such a brutal and evil thing?
He did not know where these heads had come from. Maybe he hadn't killed them. They could have been dead already. And he was only-
Kenshin kicked himself for his idiocy. What matter where the head had come from? What kind of monster did such things?
He was working now. He had accepted his emotion. Kenshin knew deeply that Soujiro was a changed person.
Just what kind of work did he do for Mitsumori? A rich man may have enemies, may need bodyguards and assassins. And the money would be worth it. For a person of Soujiro's unusual temperament, such a job would have been seductive. And he seemed very well employed.
He would need to find the boy right away. He needed answers from the boy himself. Saito was no fool, and he would kill Soujiro the second he found out he was in Tokyo, rather than risk that immense power going unchecked. But he knew nothing of the Shukuchi technique, except by Hearsay. The instant he knew that the killer used that technique he would be all over Soujiro like white on rice.
After the murder no one would question Saito's judgment, it seemed sense to Kenshin's tired mind.
He must not reveal he knew anything about the Shukuchi. So that he could find Soujiro. It would have to be. Kaoru was a problem. Her knowledge of arcane arts was very high. She had read much on the subject. He could only hope she would be too busy to double check it.
***
The day dawned on a new morning. Mr. Komiyoji and his sons were picking over the remains of their house that day.
But at the Kamiya dojo breakfast was being served much later then sunrise. It had to be expected after such a tiring day. Even Kenshin slept in that day. The guests ate hearty, as Kaoru prepared them all a large breakfast. For Miss Megumi had decided to drop by. The Shinomoris were eager to relate the incident last night at the Komiyoji house. Megumi said she would look after Yahiko's arm. Yahiko was still asleep. Hopefully lots of rest would heal his scarred memory. Yahiko had never seen deaths like that before. So brutal.
"Wow. This is a most wonderful breakfast Miss Kaoru." Misao said "I wouldn't have known you were such a good cook."
Lord Aoshi cleared his throat. "What shall we do today, Misao?"
"I have it. Lord Aoshi. We shall go shopping. All of us. In the Ginza."
"Oh my." Kenshin said "I think that is fun, that I do."
"I don't know. Today is going to be busy. Yahiko is too injured to teach his classes."
"Well then perhaps you should cancel that class until you find a replacement," Misao tugged on her arm.
"Well-" Kaoru's resolve weakened. "No Yahiko is hurt and."
Misao continued chattering, "That is where they have those fancy depaato's[3] on the cutting edge of fashion. Avant-Garde as the French say."
"Hmm." Aoshi grunted.
"The negative emotions in this house should be purged for a time, "Misao shook her head. "The business with the fire and the fight and the party."
Megumi pouted.
"I mean the unpleasantness at the party." Misao chuckled nervously.
"Yahiko needs his rest. You shouldn't be bothering him too much anyway. He can make his own choices," Megumi advised.
"Just as long as you clear the evening." Aoshi said
"What are we doing tonight?" Misao hugged him.
"Well it's a surprise." Aoshi smiled, trying to shrug her off.
"Well then what shall I wear? Kimono or western, should I dress formal, semi formal? Business casual?"
Aoshi drank his tea.
"Well you know." Misao scratched her chin "there is a German Opera company in the city. Aoshi said it is the newest one too. It's so wonderful. I saw the first one in Peking." Misao smiled.
"Western Opera, oh my how exciting." Kenshin commented, with his first smile of the day. "Is it very different from our opera?"
"It is louder," Aoshi said. "It is impressive. Like an army of musicians."
"It's marvelous Kenshin. Violins and pianos and trumpets. If only you could hear it. And they also play it on the Vitrolas. Aoshi is an expert on Western music now since they have the vitrolas. Misao cuddled his stiff arm. Aoshi sat impassively. He was not demonstrative. Only his left arm chose to participate in the cuddling.
"Hmm." Aoshi said.
"We need to find you a dress for the opera. It will be wonderful," Misao squealed enthusiastically.
"I don't have that kind of money. For a whole new dress."
"Please please. How can you go to a fancy Western Opera in a kimono? You'd stick out like a sore thumb. You can borrow my fancy slippers and I'll do your hair up."
"I never wear my hair up." Kaoru said.
"We'll give you a western hair style. They are simple with lots of curls, in the front."
"Oh my kimonos are very fine; they belonged to my mother and my aunt. They've been in the family forever. I just don't wear western clothes. I spend most of my day training in the dojo. I don't even have the time to shop for that sort of thing."
"I have it. Aoshi-san can buy you a beautiful dress, and you can wear it."
"What?" Kaoru shook her head "Unthinkable he is our guest."
"To repay the kindness you have shown us," Aoshi bowed "I will ask a favor in return, at a future date." Aoshi continued eating "It is one less piece of clothing in the world for Misao to buy."
Kaoru shrugged, "Maybe it's too much of a bother."
Misao shook her head, "We don't know anybody in Tokyo but you. And I couldn't bear to think you wouldn't have the chance to come."
"I-"Kaoru's defenses were falling apart.
"It is also your birthday tomorrow. Misao might not be here to give you a present." Kenshin went in for the kill; he was still as ruthless as ever.
"Your birthday, well you must come and let us get you a fine birthday present."
"It would be rude to break Misao's heart like that," Kenshin said.
"You're being a good friend, and spending the day having fun. What fun is there if I go shopping alone?" Misao asked.
"Kenshin." Kaoru looked helplessly. The whole day with the energetic and chattering Misao might be more than the young martial artist could bear.
"It would be an extraordinary favor to ask." Aoshi smirked.
It was ungodly how generous Misao was being Aoshi was sure, but better that she accept than endure her badgering. She could be quite rude sometimes.
"Make sure to by a dress at least as half as beautiful as you are." Kenshin clasped her hands.
Aoshi rolled his eyes. Misao hummed "Well Danno. Don't you have anything sweet to say to me?"
"Why don't you just buy two dresses?" Aoshi said.
"Cheeky." Misao kissed him on his face.
Kenshin laughed. Who would have thought Aoshi would have a sense of humor? ****
Of course, for some reason, the girls insisted that they changed before they went shopping for new clothes. Kaoru who was probably put on by Misao's "generosity" decided to wear one of her dead aunt's fine silk kimonos, so she would not feel like a beggar. It was dark blue with a beautiful golden cranes and lavender birds on it. And her expensive silken obi with shining gold thread with orange blossoms. It was a sedate color for an older woman, but still she was a beauty. She didn't have the time to put up her hair, so she piled into a manly topknot and pushed a pin through it, like a farmer's wife. While her hair may have been messy, now one could have noticed with her fair moon shaped face.
Misao was dressed very well. In fact her clothes were western. She had a grey dress with blue lace along the collar and sleeves, and a matching hat. She looked incredibly sophisticated and smart, modanu gaaru,[4] as Aoshi whispered. She was no longer a tomboy for sure, but the wife of an important lord and the top tier of Kyoto society.
And soon they all were off, with two smartly dressed ladies and their parasols behind them, on a beautiful day walking down the Ginza, gawking at every little thing that passed. He looked over to Aoshi for support as the girls dawdled behind them at the flower stand. They stood waiting. Aoshi remained impassive.
"We should just let the girls walk in front, so we can push them along," Kenshin tapped his foot.
"It is bad luck for women to walk before the men," Aoshi reminded Kenshin.
Kenshin stifled a chuckle, "Yes but I think I can afford a little bad luck if it will get us done faster."
"Do you want them running all over the place? I don't relish this." Aoshi admitted. "It's kind of emasculating, waiting for your wife to finish shopping while you stand there," Aoshi tapped his foot on the floor "You see why I trust Misao to go shopping on her own."
"Well it is a treat for them." Kenshin said. Kaoru does deserve a break from life at the dojo."
Soon Kaoru and Misao were immured themselves in fine bolts of silk and satin and lace.
"I do not think that I am in the mood for shopping anymore." Kenshin said not even turning his head, "And neither are you."
Aoshi smirked at Kenshin "Honto ni.[5]" Kenshin nodded in agreement.
"You are the one who lives here. Why don't I leave the decision of what we shall do up to you?" Aoshi looked over at him.
"I don't need to involve you. It is your vacation," Kenshin smiled. "I'm sure you'd much rather go shopping with your wife."
Aoshi gave him an odd look, and then shook his head laughing.
"No you don't to involve me. But I could ease your burden. Good Karma is more important than seeing the sights." Aoshi quipped.
"Hmmm." Kenshin sighed.
"We came here to be with those Misao calls friends, what would it be if we did not help them when they were in trouble?" Aoshi postulated, bowing slightly. "What is the problem?"
"The fire last night," Kenshin admitted, "And Yahiko's fire starter."
"I figured as much. You wish to find out who did this?" Aoshi asked.
"Yes and I have more clues. Then I had before." Kenshin said.
"What do you mean more-"
Their conversation was interrupted as Misao shoved a piece of cloth in Aoshi's face.
"Danno. What do you think of this one? You can't find this sort of double print in Kyoto. Look at that stitching."
"It costs an arm and a leg." Kaoru shook her head
"I think it's perfect. It's high quality too. You wouldn't need to buy one in ten years," Misao argued.
Kaoru snorted "I think that taffeta isn't a good idea."
"It's a present for my Grandpa." Misao said.
"Actually, I think we'll go about our own business." Aoshi removed the cloth from his face. "There is something I have to see while I'm in Tokyo. Kenshin said he would take me to see them."
Misao scrunched her brow. "Are you sure?"
"Oh Honestly Misao, can't you see your husband is trying to surprise you?" Kaoru shook her head.
"I'd say they were up to something else." Misao said. She always did have sharp eyes and highly tuned instincts.
"We'll come to see you at Five o'clock. We should be done by then." Kaoru grabbed Misao's wrist.
"That would be most convenient Miss Kaoru." Aoshi bowed.
"I'll keep Misao out of your hair until then Lord Aoshi." Kaoru winked at him and smiled.
"What is that supposed to mean?" Misao frowned as Kaoru lead her off.
"Goodbye girls." Kenshin waved at them, appearing like a lovesick husband, but really waiting until the girls were far ahead.
He and Aoshi left the store whispering "Yahiko told Kaoru that this attacker Shukuchi Above Super Speed technique, he did not tell this to the police because he thought it was nonsense."
"That is troubling," Aoshi closed his eyes "It is a very powerful technique," Aoshi sighed.
Kenshin's smile was cracking at the edges. "Yet it makes it far easier to find out who did this crime."
Aoshi nodded, "While it does reduce our list of subjects, many know this technique."
"But only one in Tokyo on the same night." Kenshin said. "Soujiro Seta is in Tokyo."
Aoshi took a long breath, "Well then he would be the prime suspect." Aoshi straightened his gloves "We shall find him before the girls are shopping, and turn him into Captain Saito." Lord Aoshi said
"No. We don't know anything." Kenshin stopped him "We don't know what has happened."
"We have dead men, we have a fire to destroy the evidence, and we have an advanced sword technique only a few men have mastered," Aoshi counted off on his fingers. And even if he was innocent Soujiro's skills make him a dangerous threat. He should not be roaming about anyway."
"Aoshi," Kenshin grasped his arm now, emphatically pleading his case. "It could be that he has given up his old ways, that it was someone else who did these crimes."
"And would still be a threat. And should be watched," Aoshi said colorlessly, removing his arm from Kenshin's. Kenshin knew he must appeal to Aoshi's sense of honor as evasive as that was.
Aoshi surprised him turning to him, "If he has done nothing, he should not be punished. But Saito will kill him if only to protect the city. He believes that an eye should be taken for an eye as the gaijin say."
"Taking an eye? What an odd expression." Kenshin mused.
"Never mind," Aoshi sighed. "He will demand savage retribution. Aku zoku san.[6]"
"We must know what is going on," Kenshin insisted. "I won't send him for a crime we do not know he committed."
Aoshi looked him in the eye. "Together we will stop Soujiro, and then turn him into the police if we feel him guilty. I swear this."
"We have no right to judge him." Kenshin said
"I think the Hittokiri Battousai and the Okashira of the Onwinbara have more right than most to judge if a man is a killer or not," Aoshi responded.
"But perhaps less," Kenshin lowered his gaze.
"Fine," Aoshi huffed. "We will leave it to the law to decide, let us stop these semantics and find him. We will decide what to do after."
***
The palanquin moved quickly through the streets of Tokyo. Past stores and shops, and private houses, to the very edge of town, where the great factories lie, like a city of tombs. They left their palanquins and began conversing.
Kenshin spoke through the curtain. "I have received very little information only that he works for the Mitsumori Company, for Yukio Mitsumori."
"That should be in the Industrial sector. It shouldn't take too long to find." Aoshi said.
***
The stone buildings towered above them like a square giants reaching up to the sky. He had never seen such a massive building up so close before. He had seen buildings in the distance. Most of the buildings he had seen were homes, even palaces, all open for human habitation. But never had they seemed so impassive, as a square mountain would. There was no nature about, except for a growing plume of smoke, from the tower.
"This is the place." Aoshi pointed to the sign.
"We will go in there and find the boss, Mr. Mitsumori.." Kenshin declared.
Aoshi held him back, "These are not like the factories in the country." Aoshi corrected. "Many of the employees are girls. There are heavy machines, and the doors are locked. There may even be security to keep all the workers in line."
"What is this? They are only making cloth. Nonsense," Kenshin grumbled.
"There is decorum. If we act correctly I'm sure they will help us find Soujiro." Aoshi said.
"Well then perhaps we should split up. I can look in the factory for the boss, and you may use your influence there," Kenshin pointed towards the door. "One of us should find Mr. Mitsumori."
Dust entered Kenshin's lungs as Aoshi opened the door; he coughed and wiped off his lips. Grey black machines clanked above them and blue grey light filtered from the outside.
"Just don't get into trouble." Aoshi closed the door behind them.
Kenshin could not believe the scale of the building. Nearly three stories high with huge glass windows, the walls brick, with a patina of dust. It seemed from the inside as if it was an underground cavern. The lack of sunlight and fresh air also added to this.
"I am Lord Aoshi Shinomori and this is my assistant, Kenshin Himura. I wish to know if."
Kenshin had expected he would be quiet prepared to enter a silk factory. He had once worked for a short time in the silk farm. He should have known better when they actually offered him a wage for his work. But he had been light in the purse.
The silk trade was thankless work and he spent once 20 hours at his seat, killing the silk worms until his hands were green with worm blood. They had given him an easy job, fit for unskilled person. He kept his head down and most assumed him a young girl.
After the season he took he wages and headed for the road again, more aware of the lives others lead. He would have never expected himself into a factory again. It hurt his soul, despite the steady wage it brought. He had great respect for the artisans who made silk.
Now, in this place, the high ceilings and the noise hurt him. In some ways, Kenshin was a weak man. How much strength it took for these young women to tolerate this life.
The girls watched him sullenly as he walked towards them. Each one hunched over a machine. The machine moving faster then thought a relentless grind of gears and metal clicking and hissing like a swarm of insects. He turned to a woman sitting upon the stool nearest to him. "Pardon me Miss. If I might know who the boss is. I have to."
"Shhh." She hissed at him.
Kenshin was taken aback. My word, this must be the busy time of the year, if they couldn't answer a simple question.
"Forgive me miss," Kenshin bowed.
He walked to another girl who didn't even look at him. Then to another. "Miss?"
"No talking. Please sir! Get out of here." She told him bluntly.
"I'll wait outside until you can take a break," Kenshin said.
The girls stared at him with anger and frustration, with due reason he supposed. The girls did not have time to get a sip of water or go outside to take a breath of air. It made Kenshin dizzy and sick in the factory after only a half an hour. One would think with such efficiency there would be time to breath.
He sat and sat and sat some more, while the girls silently worked.
Sat and sat, as Aoshi was elsewhere. How could a body stand such an environment? He shook himself.
"I need some air." Kenshin brushed the hair out of his eyes
"It's very warm in here." Kenshin fanned himself. "I'll use the stool to prop the door open."
"Sir, The doors are locked from this side." The girl said, fearfully, "You can't "
Kenshin tried to open the door. But it was locked from the outside. It seemed ridiculous. How could the workers get out of the building?
He took out a piece of wire from behind his back and with barely a moment's attention the door popped open.
"Close that door."
A huge man in a company shirt and a big stick in his hand came running
Kenshin realized "It was warm in here. I thought it would be nice to get some air in here. I'm sorry if I-"
"Hmm. Close that door." The man shoved him to the ground.
"Oro." Kenshin said toppled onto the ground.
"Listen bitch get back to work and I won't kick your ass." He shouted straight into Kenshin's face. Kenshin trembled a little. What a terrifying fellow, no wonder the girls were too afraid to move or breathe.
"I do not work here. I'm sorry for the misunderstanding." Kenshin tried to conceal his temper.
"Shut up. Or you'll get more of the back of my hand."
"I'm here with Lord Aoshi. I need to speak to Mr. Mitsumori.""
The man held up his hand getting ready to smack him again. But then he paused. "Oh my gods. You're a boy."
"I'm sorry."
"I'll say, you little whimp."
"I'm sorry to be so rude." Kenshin grunted clutching his stomach "I just thought it would be more comfortable with the door open." Kenshin snapped very crossly, there was only so much abuse a body could take.
"You leave that door closed, little boy." He slapped Kenshin's hand like a misbehaving child.
"Why?"
"If I do that these lazy bitches will want to go outside and smoke their cigarettes and laze about all morning."
Kenshin was still more shocked. The girls had not even moved from their benches.
Kenshin straightened his shirt. "I'm sure with your outstanding motivation they will continue working hard." He glared at the man, the sarcasm escaped the brute.
"First they complain it's too cold in here, in the winter so we get heat for them. Those fans are far too much money."
"But opening the door is free." Kenshin looked at him "That solves your problem."
"You shut that door close now or I will kick your sorry ass." The man poked one finger into his shoulder.
"I just want to see the one in charge. His name is Mr. Mitsumori. Is he here now?"
"Mr. Mitsumori doesn't come down here." The brute laughed "Stupid shit. Don't you know anything?"
Kenshin was confused, "But this is Mitsumori Silk, I thought he was in charge of the company."
"Upstairs. His manager's office. But Mitsumori ain't here. Did you just fall off the pumpkin patch?" The brute got in his face "Who are you? Ya Stupid Shit? You aren't one of them union snoops."
Kenshin almost heard his own voice whimper. "I'm not from anywhere. I just want to meet with Mr. Mitsumori. I have something very important to ask him."
"I don't like you union folk. Stirring the girls up, causing trouble. We won't have none of that here."
The brute yanking on his long hair, until Kenshin yelped. He heaved him in the air, by his shoulders and carried him several feet.
Then he aimed for the open door onto the dust below. Kenshin flailed his arms and crashed into the ground.
"Stay out!" He shouted.
The door slammed. He had been thrown out of Mr. Mitsumori's factory "Well he must be very important to hire such strong enforcers." Kenshin dusted himself off. Perhaps Kenshin shouldn't have been so polite and let the brute throw him out.
Kenshin stood up, extremely embarrassed.
"I thought you were going in the factory, looking for the manager."
"It was too dusty. So I opened the door, then a gust of hot air shoved me outside again." Kenshin said frowning.
"Hmm. Well Mr. Mitsumori is far too important to come into his factory, everyday."
"More important than everyone else in that building, that I see." Kenshin said, "Otherwise he might have hired more respectful people to run his company. I am starting to dislike that man and I have not even met him, I must say."
"Mr. Mitsumori's manager has no idea who Soujiro is. I gave him the description of Soujiro. No one working in the factory meets that description"
"Or perhaps he is employed as an enforcer or something less that honorable," Kenshin said. "Someone in the employ of Mr. Mitsumori directly and not the company."
"It appears Soujiro will be harder to find then we thought than."
"He is in the city, and we will find him," Kenshin promised.
"But we must move on." Aoshi said.
"This is a dreadful place." Kenshin shook himself off and turned away from that awful part of town.
****
Soujiro Seta was on the other side of town, laying out beautiful silk dresses, and pair of gloves. Such a beautiful dress dark taffeta dress with a white bustle.
Outside the door were three gentlemen, well if gentleman could be so scruffy. In all honesty they looked like three hooligans, or three disreputable ruroni[7].
"Is Yumiko in?"
"Miss Yumiko," Soujiro corrected them.
"Whatever. She in, boy?"
"You must have more respect for a lady." Soujiro said.
"You must have more respect blahblablah." The first hooligan mocked him.
"Iie. She is not in. May I help you?" Soujiro said in a tone which obviously mean that he would never in a thousand years wish to ever help them.
"We want Mitsumori. We know from the streets Yumiko is his woman. He sees her in the afternoon."
"That is not a fit topic for conversation." Soujiro said lightly "I think you're very rude. Miss Yumiko's gentleman friends are her business."
"Look kid. Don't fuck with us." The oldest of the three, with a faint unwashed scent and a wool cap approached.
"Miss Yumiko is not in. And I don't think she wants to see you." Soujiro tried to make himself look as angry as possible, trying to scare them away.
"Is this the little punk that's supposed to take care of Miss Yumiko?" The first hooligan laughed.
"This little boy." One of them shoved him out of the way onto the floor.
"Stifle it." The filthy old man snarled.
The old man took a look at him. Regarding him very closely, "I knew I saw you. I heard about you, from the boys. I know all about you." The old man said.
Soujiro straightened up and tried to give him a very tough look back. Sometimes smiles did not protect you, and you had to pretend to be angry "So?" He said arrogantly.
The old man leaned in real close and grabbed him by the lapels on his jacket. "We ain't in the country no more. When we get ya. well we're gonna have to be really clever to get away from the cops." The old man touched his chin, cupping his face.
"See we have ways of pay back." The old man drew his knife and tapped the dull edge against Soujiro's cheek. He squirmed at the coldness. "You haven't seen anything yet. We take care of our own."
Soujiro with only a slight pout on his face, as the old man touched his cheek. He proceeded to grab a weapon while the old man threatened him. In the top of the drawer there must be something. He kept his eyes still so no one would notice. He knew the gun would be in reaching distance. The other hooligans laughed as he was being threatened.
Yukio told him once that shooting was a matter of watching hands and faces. They weren't looking at his hands, surely. They were watching his eyes, dilated and fearful and weak, and his face miming terror.
He grabbed a pistol and drew it. To him they appeared a bit shocked
"Stick'em up. Drop your knife."
They laughed, and advanced with their weapons.
"Are you gonna shoot us?" the hooligans in the back ground laughed heartily.
"Little skinny bitch like you, can't fire but once. It'll explode in your hand."
He could feel sweat pooling into his armpits and down his back. Yet despite this a strange thing happened to him.
He felt the smile curve on his face, despite his fear. He had no idea what was going on, but he could no longer control his reaction. He was totally frozen, as they walked towards him.
"I'll only need one shot to kill one of you."
"You can't handle that."
Soujiro's grin was so wide his face hurt, his breath was shallow, but his eyes were wild as the figures approached. He had nothing. He was only so big. He didn't know anything about grappling. But he knew there was no sword in his hand. He knew that he'd never hold a sword again. He knew he had slain that part of himself. He was no longer angry or scared.
Maybe facing these guys was scary, but not like the real fear. He could feel a brave grin on his face. Like in the old days. But this was a different world. This was a gun, not a sword. He would only fire it to protect himself. He wouldn't be like that again. He was different.
They weren't coming to kill him. They were only coming to find out about Yumiko, and hurt Yukio-san. And they'd kill him if they had the opportunity."
"Get out of here." Soujiro's hands trembled, "I'll call the cops. You'll go to jail."
"Oh if we go to jail its cause we are about to rip this fucking place to pieces."
"Starting with you, pretty boy." They all had their knives gleaming.
Soujiro felt himself whimper "Go away and leave me alone."
They closed in like wolves. He could feel their breath and smell their filthy bodies. Soujiro couldn't even breathe.
"Why you smiling? Wipe that stupid grin off your face!"
BANG!
The old man clutched his shoulder.
"Gomen Nasai![8]" Soujiro shouted.
"My shoulder! You crazy. I didn't think you'd. you looked so scared." The old man grunted in bestial pain.
"What in the hell'he do?"
"I'm sorry. I told you I would shoot." Soujiro lowered his gun.
The hooligans were frozen at the sound of the gun.
"I'll shoot again."
"He won't-"
"We can't tell. He didn't look like he'd do it the last time.
"I've never done this before." Soujiro cocked the pistol "I'll need practice. Even get out of here or I'll shoot you as well."
"He's still smiling. He just killed my Dad and he's still smiling." The hooligan was tempted to lunge for him "He's a monster."
"Let it go. That boy is crazy. Let it go or he'll kill us all."
The old man crumpled to the ground from pain. His cohorts dispersed, fleeing the scene.
Yukio Mitsumori knocked on the door, crying out "Yumiko! Yumiko!"
"Yukio." Soujiro cried to him. He threw aside the gun.
Yukio burst into the room. Soujiro almost threw himself at Yukio to hold him. Yukio would know what to say.
"These men came in here," Soujiro's voice was shaky.
"Calm down." He placed one hand on Soujiro's chest. "Here give me that gun." Yukio took the gun from him.
"I-"
"Don't argue with me." Yukio took off his kid gloves and touched it "You have a past with the police, I know this." Yukio took off his kid gloves and touched the hot gun. "They won't resent me for shooting a wicked man in my own building."
Yukio was a tall young man, strong, and his skin and his clothes were soft and smooth because he was born rich. He had a moustache. Soujiro wanted to wrap his arms around Yukio and just cry. But serious business was at hand, it was not real men did.
"They wanted to know about Yumiko. They. they."
"Calm yourself." Yukio patted his back, instead "All will be well. You did nothing wrong."
"What if. what.."
"We won't speak of it again," Yukio said. "I will call the police. They'll take him away."
"Yukio, he's hurt. A gunshot wound is surely fatal if he does not see a doctor."
"You have such a tender heart," Yukio said "He is a thief and probably a murderer."
"Please let us take him to the hospital," Soujiro said "Forget the police."
"The wretch should be glad we did not kill him or turn him into the police."
"Please sir. I don't wanna die. Just. get me out of here. I didn't see anything."
"You tell your friends to leave us alone," Yukio shouted. "That is the only reason why you are leaving here."
Yukio turned to Soujiro, rubbed his arm, "It's all over. How many times must I tell you?"
"Tell me again." Soujiro asked weakly.
"Do not worry. Where is that beautiful smile of yours? Please do not despair. I never want to see you sad," Yukio said, touching the dimple of his chin. "Please."
Soujiro gave his smile just for him.
----------------------- [1] Nemaki- Super fancy word for pajamas. Go read "Life's Battles" by Laura Gilkey. At www.shininghalf.com. Great Soujiro Story, about when he was a little nipper. Shishio is awesome in this. [2] Gi- hey it's a dude's kimono [3] Depaato- Department stores arrived in the Meiji period; this is what leads to the development of the world famous Ginza strip. That place is so Exciting! [4] Modern Girl, a shocking thing to say about a woman in those days. [5] "Re-he-he-he-eeally" as Ace Ventura would say. [6] "Slay all evil instantly" Sounds like A rock paper scissors game. [7]Ruroni- a wanderer, or a warrior without a master. If you need a definition of this word, you haven't been a fan long [8] Gomen- (ei Gomen Nasai, Gomen ne, etc) Forgiveness, politeness, favor. The most important phrase in Japanese