Author's note: Well it's about time I posted this thing up, don't you think? I'm soooooooo sorry if it took sooooooo long, I had to update other of my internet stuff and I got stuck with school work—big time. Gomennasai! Hehe! Writing this fic turned out to be more exciting than I thought. Though, I admit it is an imagination sucker! It drains me of my thoughts and ideas but, fortunately, new ones grow each day.
Chapter 4: "Uncertain Minds"
…that is all there is for humanity.
Kenshin was outside doing the laundry as usual. Unlike any other morning, where Kenshin is usually the first one to wake up, he saw Setsuka already in the kitchen preparing breakfast. He then slowly passed by the kitchen as he walked out to do laundry.
"Ohayo, Setsuka-san! I see you start your day early." Setsuka didn't do anything, not even a glance. Kenshin didn't mind it, he was mesmerized at how the morning sun, light upon her and show her amazing features. He admired her beauty with her hair bound back neatly. She still wore her yukatta so it was relatively loose, letting more skin to be exposed to Kenshin's sight. He was so busy studying her that the next thing he knew, his foot was on the tub of laundry. Kenshin shook his head to erase the thoughts he never imagined thinking. He reached out for the soap and started washing the clothes. After a while, he noticed that his position was exactly in the only angle where he could see through the kitchen. He couldn't help looking back at her. Specially the way she draws back her loose hair, it seems to go in slow motion.
Ah Kenshin!! Stop watching her! This is completely not like you!! Get back to work, baka!!
Kenshin was shouting at himself in annoyance, all the while he was splashing water all over his gi. He decided to remove his gi since it was already very soaked, and he included it in the laundry. Moments later, he felt his body throbbing. He was afraid of this from the start. He wanted to go away but the longer he sees her there, the more difficult it gets. Until finally, his mind gave up the fight. He couldn't believe he was actually giving in to the temptation. Kenshin stood up from his seat and walked towards the beautiful maiden. Her back was to him yet she felt someone was there. She just never expected what he did. Kenshin pulled her from behind and embraced her tight. Setsuka was startled and didn't exactly know what to do. Kenshin settled his head by her neck, filling him in with her scent. Slowly, Kenshin crept his hand to her face and moved her head to face him. Setsuka was getting nervous, once again for a long time.
"Shi… shinta?" Kenshin pretended he didn't hear her. He leaned closer and closer until… their lips touched…
"What the…?!" Kenshin bolted up from his sleep. His heart was pumping hard, he swiped the room for any trace of reality of that dream but not even the kitchen was in sight. He sighed in relief, didn't actually expect he'd do that with mere throbbing. Although it was a dream, it affected him so much. Unlike any other dreams that you'd forget when you wake up, the one he had is completely unchangeable to his congested mind.
"Kami-sama, what are you trying to tell me? What in the world was that?" Kenshin shook his head off of his fantasies. He tried choking it out by thinking it was just an innocent dream that he has no control of. He looked out of the window and instinctively knew that it was already time to get up. Setting aside any other things, he got dressed and folded back his futon at the side. He decided he'll do first the laundry, by the time he has hung them, the sun would be rising hotter starting a few hours before noon. And after that, he planned to cook breakfast. So just like any other mornings, he woke up earlier than anyone else in the dojo… or so he did. Kenshin left his sword by the futon then walked towards the door. He slid it open only an inch or two and was surprised to smell something much like miso soup. He opened it wider and found himself engulf in a delicious aroma. Kenshin walked down the hall following the scent then it lead him to see Setsuka in the kitchen. He suddenly felt nervous as he recalled that this was just what happened in his dream.
Kenshin, control yourself. Don't believe what you saw last night! You have more self-control than that!!
Urging his feet to move, soon he found himself pacing towards Setsuka. His steps were loud enough to be heard but she didn't show any reaction. Kenshin greeted her but just the same, she did nothing other than continue chopping the vegetables. As he was nearing the kitchen, Kenshin was still setting his mind on self-control. Little did he know that there was no need for that because there was a barrier present that morning by Setsuka. It's a wall you won't want to break—Sanosuke. Kenshin was surprised to see him there. Usually he'd sleep all morning and only wake up at noon to catch his free meal at the dojo.
"Oi, Kenshin. Why are you standing there?" Sano leaned by the doorway looking at him nastily.
"Uh… Hehe! Hi Sano! Sumanu, I wasn't expecting to see you this early."
"Should you??." Kenshin looked towards Setsuka then back to Sanosuke.
"I guess I do now." Sano understood what he meant as he glanced at Setsuka, and actually smiled at it.
Their conversation was cut when Setsuka asked for Sano's help. Sano closed the kitchen door behind him then Kenshin proceeded outside. While washing the clothes, he could hear Setsuka telling Sano what to do but he was too innocent at cooking that he does everything wrong.
"Boil first the meat till it's soft then add the veg—No! Don't make the fire too big, you'll burn it all!"
"How 'bout this?"
"Ok, that's better. Now chop some of those veggies befo—Hey! What are you doing?! Stop poking the meat!"
"Then how will I know if it's already tender enough?"
"You WAIT, baka!! With that fire it would take about 20 minutes."
The arguing went on between them and Kenshin could only laugh at the two. An hour passed and Kenshin was already hanging their clothes. By that time, the two in the kitchen still hasn't settled down yet. Moments later, he saw Yahiko by the porch, stretching. Obviously, he just got up.
"Hey! Kenshin, what do we have for breakfast?"
"Uuhm… I'm not sure yet…" Kenshin said as he slowly turned to look towards the noisy kitchen. There were shouts, metal clinging, pot falling, and Yahiko thought he even heard glass shattering.
"Whoa!! What is that all about?!" Kenshin smiled at the surprised Yahiko.
"…breakfast".
"Okay Sano, we're almost done. How about preparing the table while I finish up here?" Setsuka walked passed Sano as she went from one side of the kitchen to another.
"Aaw! It's almost over? So, do I get a reward for helping out?"
"What?! Are you serious?" Setsuka stopped and turned to see Sano with pleading eyes.
"C'mon. It's going to be simple."
"All right. What is it?"
"Just a night out. Dinner? C'mon… just to catch up on things."
"Is that a date? We can talk right here Sano, and we have all the time we need." Setsuka got out of the kitchen and fixed the table. Sano followed with the food.
"Hey, could you blame me? I haven't seen my best friend for years and speaking with you doesn't really need a problematic samurai, a noisy woman and a bratty kid in the scene. Besides, past and present doesn't work well for me."
"What do you mean? Yahiko and I are getting along well."
"Exactly my point! Look… just have dinner with me please. For all time sake…?"
"Hmm… I see that help is pretty expensive around here. Well, all right… just tell me when."
"Haha! I can't wait!" For Sano, this opportunity would be like shooting two birds with one stone. Not only will he get some time alone with Setsuka, it will also be like marking his territory for Kenshin to see. Nevertheless, it doesn't mean that Sano doesn't trust Kenshin, he just wanted to be sure. Setsuka has just finished arranging the table as she was talking to Sano. Then she turned to the boys outside.
"Breakfast is ready!" She faced back Sano, and seeing him just standing there with a huge smile, she teased him.
"You don't want breakfast? No? Suit yourself..." Setsuka didn't give him a chance to answer. She just walked past by him with a grin.
"I didn't say no…"
"Oh don't worry, I'd understand if you're not hungry."
"Knock it off!" Sano sat by the table looking at the laughing Setsuka. Just then did Yahiko and Kenshin entered to eat. Kaoru, not long after, joined them at the table. Setsuka sat beside Yahiko, Kaoru beside Kenshin and Sano was in between Kenshin and Setsuka. Setsuka kept on asking them if the food was okay. As it turns out, it was better than Kenshin's cooking. The three guys praised her cooking while Kaoru just kept silent, because understandably, she got jealous of her.
"Woohoo!! I haven't eaten food that doesn't actually try to kill me for a long time!" Yahiko shouted out, making sure that Kaoru gets to here him.
"Say that again and you won't even be able to eat…!" Kaoru mumbled with a clenched fist. Yahiko was being such a slob at the table. He was acting like he hasn't eaten for years. With his hands flying around so much, he accidentally pushed his full cup off the table. With a quick, smooth move, Setsuka got the cup before touching the floor without wasting even a drop of water. All of them were surprised, except maybe for Kenshin. The fact that he knew she had a sword with her, made him assume that she has some skills. But then again, he still wasn't sure about that. Maybe it was someone else's or something. So he was just waiting for something like this to give him a hint on the truth.
"Whoa! That was fast!" Yahiko exclaimed. Even Kaoru admitted to herself that she was amazed.
"You wouldn't want water to spill all over your lap now, would you?" Setsuka said as an excuse, trying hard not to draw much suspicion, she just laughed at the kid and offered some more.
"Would you like more rice Yahiko?"
"Yes please!!" Yahiko laughed so hard that he got himself choking and desperately reaching for water. After putting down his bowl of rice, Setsuka immediately took a glass of water and gave it to him, all the while, she was patting his back.
Well, everyone was startled, not only by Yahiko's sudden choke, but also Setsuka's concern.
"So I guess you're not only having good food but also good service huh?"
"(cough) (cough)You're just (cough) jealous…" Yahiko answered back, tear-eyed. With that, Sano remembered what he saw just last night. The thought of Yahiko embracing Setsuka like that, makes him feel like choking the kid to death.
"Why you little.."
"Now, now, you two, don't be starting a fight this early in the morning." Kenshin tapped Sano's arm for him to put it back down.
"You're gonna get it young man! I'm not through with you yet!" Kenshin laughed apologizingly to Setsuka and convinced Sano to just forget about it. But of course, for Sano, it is easy for others to say 'take it easy' because they don't feel the same as he does. Setsuka was already glaring at him but I guess he didn't notice.
"Sano, when will you grow up?" Setsuka said almost to a whisper.
"Don't tell me you're jealous of a boy…"
"Who, me? Who says I'm jealous? I mean.. why should I be? Do I look like I'm jealous? I'm not jealous."
"Yeah, sure Sano. And you also didn't sound so guilty back there." After Kenshin's comment, everyone just burst into laughter.
Later that day, Setsuka helped train Yahiko with his sword techniques in the dojo. Setsuka didn't really instigate their lesson, Yahiko was the one who turned down Kaoru and said he'd like to be training with Setsuka instead. At that time it wasn't really clear what Setsuka's skills were, but despite that, Yahiko didn't have second thoughts. Kaoru didn't protest that much. She was confident that Setsuka was no better than her. In her mind, one quick move on the table doesn't prove anything. She knows it's just a matter of time 'till Yahiko realizes that. But as it turned out, Kaoru was wrong, Setsuka was quite the sport. She turned out to know more about swords than she does, which makes it more convenient for Yahiko. Predictably, Kaoru pouted like a little kid and walked away. Setsuka noticed Kaoru's sudden change of mood then she stopped.
"What it is?" Yahiko asked concerned.
"I don't think Miss Kaoru approves of me teaching you."
"Why not? You're good. I can learn a lot from you." Yahiko replied.
"Well, it's exactly that."
"How could you tell?"
"…she just left."
~~~~~~~~~~
In the succeeding days, Setsuka and Yahiko did less practice together after she talked to him about respecting Kaoru's authorities. Despite Kaoru's effort to contain her grudge, Setsuka still feels the cold treatment Kaoru was giving her. Because of that, she tried to adjust to a point where she doesn't hurt Kaoru.
During her stay there, the chores of each member of the Kamiya Dojo were lessen. It really seemed to be quite convenient to everybody. The kitchen was now officially Setsuka's… well, at least for Yahiko and Sano. She helps clean the house in the morning while Yahiko was in charge of the dojo. Sano comes more often just to hang around. To their surprise, he said one day that he was trying to look for a job. You could just imagine how the group took that… they ended up laughing their hearts out.
"That was a good one! Hahahaha! I really thought you were serious! Hahaha!" Yahiko spurted between laughs.
"But I am…" Sano restated. And everyone just continued laughing. Kenshin tried to find out if it really was true so he talked to him one night. It turns out that he wasn't joking.
"Umm… Sano… Any luck finding a job yet?" Kenshin asked as they were sitting by the porch.
"No. But I still have other places to look at. Tsunan has been helping me."
"So you really are serious. I think that's great Sano. Now you're starting to live completely independently. What's with the sudden change of life, by the way?" Sano paused for a while which made Kenshin assume that it was something big. Considering Sanosuke's huge make-over in his personality, it must be something important.
"Well… I just want Setsuka to see me as a good and responsible man."
"…Oh…" Kenshin said in disappointment.
"What? You think I decided that on my own? Wake up Kenshin. This is me, Sano. Girls like an independent guy."
For Kenshin, the reasons might not be good but at least Sano's towards the right direction. Nevertheless, not only Sano had a shocking change. Miraculously, Yahiko wasn't being a brat when it comes to his chores. Probably because Setsuka was there with him. They treat each other as brother and sister. If not in the kitchen, they'll find Setsuka with Yahiko. Kenshin could see them at times by the Dojo. Setsuka was teaching Yahiko more on calligraphy and facts about other things. During the times when Kaoru does her lessons in a nearby Dojo, Yahiko and Setsuka would take the opportunity to practice. And after Kenshin finishes everything he has to do, he'd stand on the side and watch them. There he'd unconsciously drift away and reflect on how things have changed since Setsuka got there. Suddenly the Kamiya residence was alive again, she completely turned Sano around and not to mention how she became an inspiration to Yahiko. That kid has never felt love and care as much as this when he was younger and Kenshin reckons that this would be great for Yahiko as he is still growing up. In fact, everyone could see the good effect this has on him. Now he's motivated to do more and exert more. Once in a while, Kenshin would never tire of speaking to himself as he watches.
"That is one heck of a woman. She has done so much that she doesn't even know of."
~~~~~~~~~~
One day, after Kenshin just arrived from the market and placed his basket by the kitchen, he saw Kaoru passed by the door with heavy thuds.
"Kaoru-dono?" Kaoru ignored Kenshin. She went straight to the yard after she heard Megumi and the others inside talking about Setsuka this… Setsuka that... She drew out her bokken and started practicing on her own.
"She's really getting on my nerves! What's with the praises? I can do the things she does just the same. Who is she anyway? I may let her take over everything else but she will not take over me!" Kaoru mumbled to herself.
"Who's taking over?" Kaoru was startled to hear a voice from behind her. Kenshin was standing by the porch wearing a puzzled face.
"Don't do that!"
"Do what?"
"Grr! Nevermind! Just leave me alone!"
"Oh! I'm sorry. I called you twice so I thought you already knew I was here." Kaoru stayed silent not minding him as she went on with her swings.
"…but then I guess not." Kenshin spoke to himself. Seeing the queue for him to go back, he couldn't make himself leave. He was concerned of what Kaoru was feeling and he wanted to do anything to help.
"Is everything okay?" Kaoru stopped and sighed. She thought to herself about how they are going through this conversation again. Their talk by the river before didn't do anyone any good, yet Kenshin still persists on knowing the truth.
"You seem to have a lot in your mind. Are you still mad at me?" Kaoru was just staring at the ground while Kenshin was talking to her. Kaoru sighed again.
"No, Kenshin. It's not you. I just feel like I'm not capable of doing anything useful."
"Wh… How can you say that? That's not true." Kaoru retained her thoughts to herself of how useless she looks compared to Setsuka.
"Well… Sano, Yahiko, Megumi and the others think so. I don't make much money, you don't see me clean the house, and certainly you know I can't even cook." Kenshin felt sad of what she said so he walked up to her and tried to comfort her.
"Are you kidding me? You're the only one making money here. We all feel in debt to you. We would be homeless and alone right now if it wasn't for you." The attempt to lighten her up seems to work. Her frowned expression was now gone but traces of an unhappy day is still seen in her eyes.
"Demo… about your cooking… we could still work on that." Kenshin said, trying not to make it sound bad.
"Are you saying my cooking's terrible??"
"N..No. Not at all. It's good but I know you can do much better." He replied immediately, feeling nervous.
"So you'll teach me?"
"Umm… I would but you know, Setsuka's a greater cook than I am. Perhaps you two could…"
"Forget it Kenshin. I know you're trying to help, and I appreciate that, but… just forget it. You wouldn't understand." Kaoru suddenly flared up again. She didn't even let Kenshin finish his sentence. After that, she just went straight back to her room and didn't even come out for dinner that night.
~~~~~~~~~~
"Okashira, we've found her."
"About time. Where is she?" A deep voice answered from the shadows.
"She is staying in a dojo not far from the temple. Apparently, she wasn't staying in inn that our contact told us. She has some companions, but we don't think they'll be much of a threat. Although one was carrying a sword."
"Nevermind that. What's important is her."
"What about our spy? He must be punished." Retaliated the man on his knees.
"I'll take care of him later. For now, send a greeting and gather our men! This slick bitch won't be going anywhere no more. I'm getting tired of this damn chase." The man nodded and suddenly disappeared. The room went bear, left only with the echo of a grim, cold laugh in the dark.
~~~~~~~~~~
She was breathing heavily and sweat was dripping from her face. Her clothes were soaked and her arms and legs were tense yet she kept her stance. Only her panting is heard in the midnight air. Unbeknownst to her, someone was roaming the house that late at night unable to sleep. Kenshin trod along the hallways very stealthily, careful not to wake anyone. Then a flash of a bright reflection caught his eyes. He was alarmed. He knew it came from the dojo, probably light bounced from a mirror… or a sword. Kenshin didn't recognize her right away since she was wearing a gi and a hakama covered with sweat and her hair was bound up. As she turned around in a smooth glide, he was surprised to see Setsuka. There he knew that she was really hiding something after all. He also confirmed that she had a sword with her when she came. What she was holding now was not similar to any of the swords hanged on the dojo. It had carvings on it which was most likely Japanese characters and its hilt is presented differently. From there you can assume that that sword has a foreign sense to it. Although it had Japanese characters, it didn't hide the fact that it wasn't made in Japan. Also considering her style being different, one kenshin was not very familiar of. It seemed to have a Chinese touch to it as well, since she looked more like she was dancing but in a quick and suave pace. She raised the katana above her head and swiftly swung it around her, then rhythmically turned around and thrust it forward. In a split second, she turned the blade up then launched herself upward to the ceiling. When she got back down, she was holding the hilt upside down and the back of the blade was leaning on her elbow.
'I know that move. I've seen it before… but… where??'
Setsuka readied again. She bit the dull side of the sword then started to back flip across the room and ended up with a summersault. From which she landed with her straight body facing sideways while her hand raised her sword towards the angle where she was last standing. In continuance to that, she made a slash on all angles (back, front, two sides and above-head) simultaneously before she shoved her sword again in front and swung it towards the ground on the opposite side. It resembled a seen where you'd literally fork up your opponent from his stomach and slam him to the ground behind you.
For Kenshin, her flow and grace was beautiful. It added to the beauty she obviously already has. Kenshin was mesmerized by what he was witnessing, at the same time, puzzled with determining what he just saw.
Now that looked like Gou Tsui Tou Sei. It's Chinese alright, but that's a move from the Watou Jutsu style. That couldn't be right…
Only then when she paused to rest did she felt that someone was watching her.
'That can't be it!' Kenshin continued talking to himself. 'That is one of the most powerful sword styles and it's known as a counterpart of Hiten Mitsurugi. Not only that… Watou Jutsu… is also used by…'
Setsuka's heart pounded faster, sensing something coming towards her. Kenshin was abruptly interrupted as well as he sensed it too. A dart came flying from the trees outside, passing the open door of the dojo towards Setsuka's head. Kenshin was about to warn her but when he looked back, Setsuka already caught it by moving at a fast speed rate much like…
'…Enishi.'
Setsuka studied the dart and it had a note tied around it. It was a small, torn piece of parchment and the writing was an untidy, scribbled note. After reading it, her heart skipped a beat then she looked up from the paper.
"Oh, no…"
----------End of chapter 4----------
Author's note: Well, that brings up a lot of mystery, doesn't it? Whatever! The important thing here is… I'VE FINALLY POSTED MY FOURTH CHAPTER!!! It's been sitting on my computer for so long, maybe I forgot about it after a long time of not being able to do more than school work. Sorry again… Anyway, don't worry. I'll try harder next time and about what happening in this fic, just wait… it's gonna turn much interesting real soon. So for the mean time, kindly review this for me please. Or better yet… scold me. -_-x thanx for reading
Chapter 4: "Uncertain Minds"
…that is all there is for humanity.
Kenshin was outside doing the laundry as usual. Unlike any other morning, where Kenshin is usually the first one to wake up, he saw Setsuka already in the kitchen preparing breakfast. He then slowly passed by the kitchen as he walked out to do laundry.
"Ohayo, Setsuka-san! I see you start your day early." Setsuka didn't do anything, not even a glance. Kenshin didn't mind it, he was mesmerized at how the morning sun, light upon her and show her amazing features. He admired her beauty with her hair bound back neatly. She still wore her yukatta so it was relatively loose, letting more skin to be exposed to Kenshin's sight. He was so busy studying her that the next thing he knew, his foot was on the tub of laundry. Kenshin shook his head to erase the thoughts he never imagined thinking. He reached out for the soap and started washing the clothes. After a while, he noticed that his position was exactly in the only angle where he could see through the kitchen. He couldn't help looking back at her. Specially the way she draws back her loose hair, it seems to go in slow motion.
Ah Kenshin!! Stop watching her! This is completely not like you!! Get back to work, baka!!
Kenshin was shouting at himself in annoyance, all the while he was splashing water all over his gi. He decided to remove his gi since it was already very soaked, and he included it in the laundry. Moments later, he felt his body throbbing. He was afraid of this from the start. He wanted to go away but the longer he sees her there, the more difficult it gets. Until finally, his mind gave up the fight. He couldn't believe he was actually giving in to the temptation. Kenshin stood up from his seat and walked towards the beautiful maiden. Her back was to him yet she felt someone was there. She just never expected what he did. Kenshin pulled her from behind and embraced her tight. Setsuka was startled and didn't exactly know what to do. Kenshin settled his head by her neck, filling him in with her scent. Slowly, Kenshin crept his hand to her face and moved her head to face him. Setsuka was getting nervous, once again for a long time.
"Shi… shinta?" Kenshin pretended he didn't hear her. He leaned closer and closer until… their lips touched…
"What the…?!" Kenshin bolted up from his sleep. His heart was pumping hard, he swiped the room for any trace of reality of that dream but not even the kitchen was in sight. He sighed in relief, didn't actually expect he'd do that with mere throbbing. Although it was a dream, it affected him so much. Unlike any other dreams that you'd forget when you wake up, the one he had is completely unchangeable to his congested mind.
"Kami-sama, what are you trying to tell me? What in the world was that?" Kenshin shook his head off of his fantasies. He tried choking it out by thinking it was just an innocent dream that he has no control of. He looked out of the window and instinctively knew that it was already time to get up. Setting aside any other things, he got dressed and folded back his futon at the side. He decided he'll do first the laundry, by the time he has hung them, the sun would be rising hotter starting a few hours before noon. And after that, he planned to cook breakfast. So just like any other mornings, he woke up earlier than anyone else in the dojo… or so he did. Kenshin left his sword by the futon then walked towards the door. He slid it open only an inch or two and was surprised to smell something much like miso soup. He opened it wider and found himself engulf in a delicious aroma. Kenshin walked down the hall following the scent then it lead him to see Setsuka in the kitchen. He suddenly felt nervous as he recalled that this was just what happened in his dream.
Kenshin, control yourself. Don't believe what you saw last night! You have more self-control than that!!
Urging his feet to move, soon he found himself pacing towards Setsuka. His steps were loud enough to be heard but she didn't show any reaction. Kenshin greeted her but just the same, she did nothing other than continue chopping the vegetables. As he was nearing the kitchen, Kenshin was still setting his mind on self-control. Little did he know that there was no need for that because there was a barrier present that morning by Setsuka. It's a wall you won't want to break—Sanosuke. Kenshin was surprised to see him there. Usually he'd sleep all morning and only wake up at noon to catch his free meal at the dojo.
"Oi, Kenshin. Why are you standing there?" Sano leaned by the doorway looking at him nastily.
"Uh… Hehe! Hi Sano! Sumanu, I wasn't expecting to see you this early."
"Should you??." Kenshin looked towards Setsuka then back to Sanosuke.
"I guess I do now." Sano understood what he meant as he glanced at Setsuka, and actually smiled at it.
Their conversation was cut when Setsuka asked for Sano's help. Sano closed the kitchen door behind him then Kenshin proceeded outside. While washing the clothes, he could hear Setsuka telling Sano what to do but he was too innocent at cooking that he does everything wrong.
"Boil first the meat till it's soft then add the veg—No! Don't make the fire too big, you'll burn it all!"
"How 'bout this?"
"Ok, that's better. Now chop some of those veggies befo—Hey! What are you doing?! Stop poking the meat!"
"Then how will I know if it's already tender enough?"
"You WAIT, baka!! With that fire it would take about 20 minutes."
The arguing went on between them and Kenshin could only laugh at the two. An hour passed and Kenshin was already hanging their clothes. By that time, the two in the kitchen still hasn't settled down yet. Moments later, he saw Yahiko by the porch, stretching. Obviously, he just got up.
"Hey! Kenshin, what do we have for breakfast?"
"Uuhm… I'm not sure yet…" Kenshin said as he slowly turned to look towards the noisy kitchen. There were shouts, metal clinging, pot falling, and Yahiko thought he even heard glass shattering.
"Whoa!! What is that all about?!" Kenshin smiled at the surprised Yahiko.
"…breakfast".
"Okay Sano, we're almost done. How about preparing the table while I finish up here?" Setsuka walked passed Sano as she went from one side of the kitchen to another.
"Aaw! It's almost over? So, do I get a reward for helping out?"
"What?! Are you serious?" Setsuka stopped and turned to see Sano with pleading eyes.
"C'mon. It's going to be simple."
"All right. What is it?"
"Just a night out. Dinner? C'mon… just to catch up on things."
"Is that a date? We can talk right here Sano, and we have all the time we need." Setsuka got out of the kitchen and fixed the table. Sano followed with the food.
"Hey, could you blame me? I haven't seen my best friend for years and speaking with you doesn't really need a problematic samurai, a noisy woman and a bratty kid in the scene. Besides, past and present doesn't work well for me."
"What do you mean? Yahiko and I are getting along well."
"Exactly my point! Look… just have dinner with me please. For all time sake…?"
"Hmm… I see that help is pretty expensive around here. Well, all right… just tell me when."
"Haha! I can't wait!" For Sano, this opportunity would be like shooting two birds with one stone. Not only will he get some time alone with Setsuka, it will also be like marking his territory for Kenshin to see. Nevertheless, it doesn't mean that Sano doesn't trust Kenshin, he just wanted to be sure. Setsuka has just finished arranging the table as she was talking to Sano. Then she turned to the boys outside.
"Breakfast is ready!" She faced back Sano, and seeing him just standing there with a huge smile, she teased him.
"You don't want breakfast? No? Suit yourself..." Setsuka didn't give him a chance to answer. She just walked past by him with a grin.
"I didn't say no…"
"Oh don't worry, I'd understand if you're not hungry."
"Knock it off!" Sano sat by the table looking at the laughing Setsuka. Just then did Yahiko and Kenshin entered to eat. Kaoru, not long after, joined them at the table. Setsuka sat beside Yahiko, Kaoru beside Kenshin and Sano was in between Kenshin and Setsuka. Setsuka kept on asking them if the food was okay. As it turns out, it was better than Kenshin's cooking. The three guys praised her cooking while Kaoru just kept silent, because understandably, she got jealous of her.
"Woohoo!! I haven't eaten food that doesn't actually try to kill me for a long time!" Yahiko shouted out, making sure that Kaoru gets to here him.
"Say that again and you won't even be able to eat…!" Kaoru mumbled with a clenched fist. Yahiko was being such a slob at the table. He was acting like he hasn't eaten for years. With his hands flying around so much, he accidentally pushed his full cup off the table. With a quick, smooth move, Setsuka got the cup before touching the floor without wasting even a drop of water. All of them were surprised, except maybe for Kenshin. The fact that he knew she had a sword with her, made him assume that she has some skills. But then again, he still wasn't sure about that. Maybe it was someone else's or something. So he was just waiting for something like this to give him a hint on the truth.
"Whoa! That was fast!" Yahiko exclaimed. Even Kaoru admitted to herself that she was amazed.
"You wouldn't want water to spill all over your lap now, would you?" Setsuka said as an excuse, trying hard not to draw much suspicion, she just laughed at the kid and offered some more.
"Would you like more rice Yahiko?"
"Yes please!!" Yahiko laughed so hard that he got himself choking and desperately reaching for water. After putting down his bowl of rice, Setsuka immediately took a glass of water and gave it to him, all the while, she was patting his back.
Well, everyone was startled, not only by Yahiko's sudden choke, but also Setsuka's concern.
"So I guess you're not only having good food but also good service huh?"
"(cough) (cough)You're just (cough) jealous…" Yahiko answered back, tear-eyed. With that, Sano remembered what he saw just last night. The thought of Yahiko embracing Setsuka like that, makes him feel like choking the kid to death.
"Why you little.."
"Now, now, you two, don't be starting a fight this early in the morning." Kenshin tapped Sano's arm for him to put it back down.
"You're gonna get it young man! I'm not through with you yet!" Kenshin laughed apologizingly to Setsuka and convinced Sano to just forget about it. But of course, for Sano, it is easy for others to say 'take it easy' because they don't feel the same as he does. Setsuka was already glaring at him but I guess he didn't notice.
"Sano, when will you grow up?" Setsuka said almost to a whisper.
"Don't tell me you're jealous of a boy…"
"Who, me? Who says I'm jealous? I mean.. why should I be? Do I look like I'm jealous? I'm not jealous."
"Yeah, sure Sano. And you also didn't sound so guilty back there." After Kenshin's comment, everyone just burst into laughter.
Later that day, Setsuka helped train Yahiko with his sword techniques in the dojo. Setsuka didn't really instigate their lesson, Yahiko was the one who turned down Kaoru and said he'd like to be training with Setsuka instead. At that time it wasn't really clear what Setsuka's skills were, but despite that, Yahiko didn't have second thoughts. Kaoru didn't protest that much. She was confident that Setsuka was no better than her. In her mind, one quick move on the table doesn't prove anything. She knows it's just a matter of time 'till Yahiko realizes that. But as it turned out, Kaoru was wrong, Setsuka was quite the sport. She turned out to know more about swords than she does, which makes it more convenient for Yahiko. Predictably, Kaoru pouted like a little kid and walked away. Setsuka noticed Kaoru's sudden change of mood then she stopped.
"What it is?" Yahiko asked concerned.
"I don't think Miss Kaoru approves of me teaching you."
"Why not? You're good. I can learn a lot from you." Yahiko replied.
"Well, it's exactly that."
"How could you tell?"
"…she just left."
~~~~~~~~~~
In the succeeding days, Setsuka and Yahiko did less practice together after she talked to him about respecting Kaoru's authorities. Despite Kaoru's effort to contain her grudge, Setsuka still feels the cold treatment Kaoru was giving her. Because of that, she tried to adjust to a point where she doesn't hurt Kaoru.
During her stay there, the chores of each member of the Kamiya Dojo were lessen. It really seemed to be quite convenient to everybody. The kitchen was now officially Setsuka's… well, at least for Yahiko and Sano. She helps clean the house in the morning while Yahiko was in charge of the dojo. Sano comes more often just to hang around. To their surprise, he said one day that he was trying to look for a job. You could just imagine how the group took that… they ended up laughing their hearts out.
"That was a good one! Hahahaha! I really thought you were serious! Hahaha!" Yahiko spurted between laughs.
"But I am…" Sano restated. And everyone just continued laughing. Kenshin tried to find out if it really was true so he talked to him one night. It turns out that he wasn't joking.
"Umm… Sano… Any luck finding a job yet?" Kenshin asked as they were sitting by the porch.
"No. But I still have other places to look at. Tsunan has been helping me."
"So you really are serious. I think that's great Sano. Now you're starting to live completely independently. What's with the sudden change of life, by the way?" Sano paused for a while which made Kenshin assume that it was something big. Considering Sanosuke's huge make-over in his personality, it must be something important.
"Well… I just want Setsuka to see me as a good and responsible man."
"…Oh…" Kenshin said in disappointment.
"What? You think I decided that on my own? Wake up Kenshin. This is me, Sano. Girls like an independent guy."
For Kenshin, the reasons might not be good but at least Sano's towards the right direction. Nevertheless, not only Sano had a shocking change. Miraculously, Yahiko wasn't being a brat when it comes to his chores. Probably because Setsuka was there with him. They treat each other as brother and sister. If not in the kitchen, they'll find Setsuka with Yahiko. Kenshin could see them at times by the Dojo. Setsuka was teaching Yahiko more on calligraphy and facts about other things. During the times when Kaoru does her lessons in a nearby Dojo, Yahiko and Setsuka would take the opportunity to practice. And after Kenshin finishes everything he has to do, he'd stand on the side and watch them. There he'd unconsciously drift away and reflect on how things have changed since Setsuka got there. Suddenly the Kamiya residence was alive again, she completely turned Sano around and not to mention how she became an inspiration to Yahiko. That kid has never felt love and care as much as this when he was younger and Kenshin reckons that this would be great for Yahiko as he is still growing up. In fact, everyone could see the good effect this has on him. Now he's motivated to do more and exert more. Once in a while, Kenshin would never tire of speaking to himself as he watches.
"That is one heck of a woman. She has done so much that she doesn't even know of."
~~~~~~~~~~
One day, after Kenshin just arrived from the market and placed his basket by the kitchen, he saw Kaoru passed by the door with heavy thuds.
"Kaoru-dono?" Kaoru ignored Kenshin. She went straight to the yard after she heard Megumi and the others inside talking about Setsuka this… Setsuka that... She drew out her bokken and started practicing on her own.
"She's really getting on my nerves! What's with the praises? I can do the things she does just the same. Who is she anyway? I may let her take over everything else but she will not take over me!" Kaoru mumbled to herself.
"Who's taking over?" Kaoru was startled to hear a voice from behind her. Kenshin was standing by the porch wearing a puzzled face.
"Don't do that!"
"Do what?"
"Grr! Nevermind! Just leave me alone!"
"Oh! I'm sorry. I called you twice so I thought you already knew I was here." Kaoru stayed silent not minding him as she went on with her swings.
"…but then I guess not." Kenshin spoke to himself. Seeing the queue for him to go back, he couldn't make himself leave. He was concerned of what Kaoru was feeling and he wanted to do anything to help.
"Is everything okay?" Kaoru stopped and sighed. She thought to herself about how they are going through this conversation again. Their talk by the river before didn't do anyone any good, yet Kenshin still persists on knowing the truth.
"You seem to have a lot in your mind. Are you still mad at me?" Kaoru was just staring at the ground while Kenshin was talking to her. Kaoru sighed again.
"No, Kenshin. It's not you. I just feel like I'm not capable of doing anything useful."
"Wh… How can you say that? That's not true." Kaoru retained her thoughts to herself of how useless she looks compared to Setsuka.
"Well… Sano, Yahiko, Megumi and the others think so. I don't make much money, you don't see me clean the house, and certainly you know I can't even cook." Kenshin felt sad of what she said so he walked up to her and tried to comfort her.
"Are you kidding me? You're the only one making money here. We all feel in debt to you. We would be homeless and alone right now if it wasn't for you." The attempt to lighten her up seems to work. Her frowned expression was now gone but traces of an unhappy day is still seen in her eyes.
"Demo… about your cooking… we could still work on that." Kenshin said, trying not to make it sound bad.
"Are you saying my cooking's terrible??"
"N..No. Not at all. It's good but I know you can do much better." He replied immediately, feeling nervous.
"So you'll teach me?"
"Umm… I would but you know, Setsuka's a greater cook than I am. Perhaps you two could…"
"Forget it Kenshin. I know you're trying to help, and I appreciate that, but… just forget it. You wouldn't understand." Kaoru suddenly flared up again. She didn't even let Kenshin finish his sentence. After that, she just went straight back to her room and didn't even come out for dinner that night.
~~~~~~~~~~
"Okashira, we've found her."
"About time. Where is she?" A deep voice answered from the shadows.
"She is staying in a dojo not far from the temple. Apparently, she wasn't staying in inn that our contact told us. She has some companions, but we don't think they'll be much of a threat. Although one was carrying a sword."
"Nevermind that. What's important is her."
"What about our spy? He must be punished." Retaliated the man on his knees.
"I'll take care of him later. For now, send a greeting and gather our men! This slick bitch won't be going anywhere no more. I'm getting tired of this damn chase." The man nodded and suddenly disappeared. The room went bear, left only with the echo of a grim, cold laugh in the dark.
~~~~~~~~~~
She was breathing heavily and sweat was dripping from her face. Her clothes were soaked and her arms and legs were tense yet she kept her stance. Only her panting is heard in the midnight air. Unbeknownst to her, someone was roaming the house that late at night unable to sleep. Kenshin trod along the hallways very stealthily, careful not to wake anyone. Then a flash of a bright reflection caught his eyes. He was alarmed. He knew it came from the dojo, probably light bounced from a mirror… or a sword. Kenshin didn't recognize her right away since she was wearing a gi and a hakama covered with sweat and her hair was bound up. As she turned around in a smooth glide, he was surprised to see Setsuka. There he knew that she was really hiding something after all. He also confirmed that she had a sword with her when she came. What she was holding now was not similar to any of the swords hanged on the dojo. It had carvings on it which was most likely Japanese characters and its hilt is presented differently. From there you can assume that that sword has a foreign sense to it. Although it had Japanese characters, it didn't hide the fact that it wasn't made in Japan. Also considering her style being different, one kenshin was not very familiar of. It seemed to have a Chinese touch to it as well, since she looked more like she was dancing but in a quick and suave pace. She raised the katana above her head and swiftly swung it around her, then rhythmically turned around and thrust it forward. In a split second, she turned the blade up then launched herself upward to the ceiling. When she got back down, she was holding the hilt upside down and the back of the blade was leaning on her elbow.
'I know that move. I've seen it before… but… where??'
Setsuka readied again. She bit the dull side of the sword then started to back flip across the room and ended up with a summersault. From which she landed with her straight body facing sideways while her hand raised her sword towards the angle where she was last standing. In continuance to that, she made a slash on all angles (back, front, two sides and above-head) simultaneously before she shoved her sword again in front and swung it towards the ground on the opposite side. It resembled a seen where you'd literally fork up your opponent from his stomach and slam him to the ground behind you.
For Kenshin, her flow and grace was beautiful. It added to the beauty she obviously already has. Kenshin was mesmerized by what he was witnessing, at the same time, puzzled with determining what he just saw.
Now that looked like Gou Tsui Tou Sei. It's Chinese alright, but that's a move from the Watou Jutsu style. That couldn't be right…
Only then when she paused to rest did she felt that someone was watching her.
'That can't be it!' Kenshin continued talking to himself. 'That is one of the most powerful sword styles and it's known as a counterpart of Hiten Mitsurugi. Not only that… Watou Jutsu… is also used by…'
Setsuka's heart pounded faster, sensing something coming towards her. Kenshin was abruptly interrupted as well as he sensed it too. A dart came flying from the trees outside, passing the open door of the dojo towards Setsuka's head. Kenshin was about to warn her but when he looked back, Setsuka already caught it by moving at a fast speed rate much like…
'…Enishi.'
Setsuka studied the dart and it had a note tied around it. It was a small, torn piece of parchment and the writing was an untidy, scribbled note. After reading it, her heart skipped a beat then she looked up from the paper.
"Oh, no…"
----------End of chapter 4----------
Author's note: Well, that brings up a lot of mystery, doesn't it? Whatever! The important thing here is… I'VE FINALLY POSTED MY FOURTH CHAPTER!!! It's been sitting on my computer for so long, maybe I forgot about it after a long time of not being able to do more than school work. Sorry again… Anyway, don't worry. I'll try harder next time and about what happening in this fic, just wait… it's gonna turn much interesting real soon. So for the mean time, kindly review this for me please. Or better yet… scold me. -_-x thanx for reading