Chapter Nine
"You were treated well I trust Miss Megumi?" The red haired man asked, looking over at her. His eyes were searching, as if he dared her to say no so he could deal with it appropriately.
A warm feeling rushed her body, one she hadn't felt in a very long time. After living on her own wits for so long she had learned to take care of herself. Someone showing even the tiniest bit of concern was almost so foreign that she didn't recognize it for what it was.
"Abruptly." She sniffed to cover up her real reaction to the question. His eyes softened and he gave a smile.
"I'm glad to hear that, that I am."
"How…" Megumi started before she realized she wasn't even sure what she wanted to ask, or if it was too personal to even consider. She was usually very direct when she wasn't exercising her playful sense of humor. Strict some would say. Mostly former patients.
He looked at her quizzically, "What? What is it Miss Megumi? There is nothing to fear here at the moment."
A noble sentiment, but she knew that he couldn't possibly ensure that.
He looked amused at something and she narrowed her eyes. She wasn't entirely appreciative of the treatment she had been receiving. Admittedly it was a lot better than the one Shishio would give if he somehow detected her. But dealing with touchy half-werewolves and smiling idiots who treated her like a child was grating.
"What?" She asked in a pleasant voice. Belatedly she realized it might have worked better if she had used a nicer word choice. What was rude and common. Something like that Sanosuke guy would say.
"You don't know who I am."
"So? I didn't know who any of you were before I came to this forsaken place." She snapped, a hot blush spreading across her features. Had she treaded on someone's toes? She was usually better at tact! The events had taken her off guard and it was affecting her judgment. That would have to stop. Immediately. There was no reason to give that insufferable man Hiko any more ammunition.
Not that she cared. In fact, he could go jump in a river after all of this was said and done. It would be doing the world a favor. She didn't even know what the pair of killers would do after they managed to succeed. If they succeeded that was. As a doctor she knew of and accepted risk. It was part of the profession. And right now she could see a very high risk factor. Nonetheless, it was something that needed to be done. Or at least the two felt it did, from what she could tell they had dedicated their lives to it. Some might even find that admirable.
The slight red hair man gave a soft chuckled and shook his head. "I forgot you have not been here long. Forgive my oversight if you would please. And let me introduce myself: Kenshin Himura also known as the Battousai."
Her hand flew instinctively to her mouth and she inched back. His face was sad, but it retained that wry sense of hurt humor. But the Battousai was a legend, wasn't he? Merely a bedtime story for unruly children, or as a warning to a venturesome young man. Yes, now that she looked closer she could see how he could be what he claimed. The only thing missing were fangs and glowing yellow eyes. Well, and she had always imagined him a bit taller.
"Oh my."
"I suppose, but I have made a vow not to kill. Miss Kikisha knew what she was doing. Although me may have our differences, she would never endanger her charge purposefully."
She assumed that was to be reassuring. However, all he did was confirm that her caretaker had her own agenda to pursue. "So she might do it unintentionally?"
"Oro?"
"Never mind." Megumi sighed and massaged her temples with slow strokes from her fingers. "So you're really half vampire then. There seems to be a lot of you half-lings running around here. Can't keep the pants on I suppose. It's such a problem in humans I don't know why I'd think it was any different with you guys."
"I am not quite sure as to what you are saying, but yes, I am." He scratched the back of his head and Megumi studied the cross-shaped scar on his cheek. Although she sensed that it was quite old, the flesh coloring made it seem very fresh. Even with his fair complexion, it shouldn't have been so dark or precise. He noticed her gaze and brushed her questioning look off, "It is nothing but an old reminder."
"Sorry, I didn't mean to stare."
He opened his mouth to answer when the line gave a jerk. Within an instant he had hold of the pole and was playing the line. A good-sized fish flopped onto the land. With a quick motion he stunned then killed it.
"Why are you fishing?"
"Oro?" He said in confusion and she was rapidly becoming irritated with the meaningless noise, "What do you mean Miss Megumi."
"You don't eat fish do you?" She said slowly, as if pointing it out.
He blinked, "I can. But that is not what you are asking, is it." He shrugged, "I help people. It eases the darkness that tears inside of me. Being half and not whole is difficult. The two natures are at odds, and it is the darker half that is stronger. If I let it I truly would deserve all the stories about my infamous deeds."
She considered this. Her past was far from pristine, especially after her mother died. But she had never aspired to be anything but a healer and doctor.
"Battousai, I figured I'd find you here. Ah, but you have someone new with you. Would you introduce me to the beauty?"
A tall, harsh looking demon stepped out from the shadows the trees. The strip of cloth around his eyes ensured that he couldn't see her, and Megumi wondered how he could tell. There was something about him, even with his familiarity with Kenshin that set her on edge and made her hair stand up. She subconsciously placed Kenshin between her and the monster.
"Usui, you are not supposed to come here. If Saitoh found out…"
"That dog? He can't do anything to me but shiver at my feet like a good little mutt. I own him if you recall. And I can exercise my powers over him to punish." The oni snorted, clearly unimpressed.
"But it was an agreement…"
"Don't be a stickler, it doesn't become you. Besides, I need to talk to you," He glanced around smoothly and his lips twitched, "Without the interference of the hounds."
"Miss Megumi, this is Usui. He is an alliance." Kenshin introduced politely, and quite blatantly not extending the courtesy to the oni. Not that it mattered.
"Ah, Megumi is a pretty name." He offered before paying little more attention to her. She glared, but she knew his type. Man, demon it made no difference. They saw females as property or as a boast. In fact, she had been treated that way all her life as a woman. Not as a doctor. When she was treating they were nothing but deferential and polite. Kenshin wasn't like that, she could already tell. The first man to actually treat her like a real person had been Enishi.
"Battousai, if you would please pass on this message to the dogs: Tell them to mind their own business in vampire affairs. They've treaded one too many times on thin ice. Our Lord," This last word was said dripping with scorn, "Is becoming rather annoyed. It may hinder laid plans if he jumps in an unexpected way."
"Saitoh knows what he is doing." Kenshin replied sharply. Although there was no weapon at his side, Megumi could see that he instinctively brought his hand up to where the hilt would normally be. Grasping air, it seemed to take a moment before he brought his hand back down to his side. "But you said you wished to speak to me. Please, do so now."
"Ah, always polite." The oni sneered, "I did want to speak with you. On the matter of your trespass."
Kenshin's eyes flitted back to Megumi, worried. His shoulders slumped a bit and he said, "I thought you might. Can we do it another time then?"
"Afraid not, this needs to be covered now. Before things, the chaos, start to happen and it is conveniently forgotten. I'm no fool. Especially not the one Shishio would make me out to be."
"Can't this wait?" Megumi snapped, suddenly finding her voice. The one turned his head to look at her and gave an uncanny smile. One might even call it wicked. She didn't shrink back from his nonexistent gaze; instead she glared back.
"How amusing, so the beauty speaks. Being female I doubt she has any idea of what a grave error you made or why you have to repay it." Usui said condescendingly. Megumi gritted her teeth and made herself back off. He was right in one sense, she had no idea what was going on. That, however, had nothing to do with her being female. He was nothing more than a male chauvinistic pig.
"If you would give us some space Miss Megumi? I am afraid this could get rather violent. Miss Kikisha placed you in my care and I would hate to bring her wrath down on me. But I would hate it even more if you were hurt because of this, that I would." Kenshin remarked, never taking his eyes off the demon that stood before him.
"At least you show sense. Shishio underestimates you greatly. A grave mistake on his part, but a great fortune on ours."
He retrieved what looked like a cracked leather sheath with a frayed hilt sticking out from it. Kenshin looked displeased that the demon had it, but he snatched it when it was tossed to him. With a practiced motion that spoke of familiarity he hooked it at his side. With astonishing speed he released the blade from its containment and sliced the air in front of him with a hard, fast swing. Twisting his wrist he brought the blade to a halt and re-sheathed it with a nod.
"I do not know how you spirited my blade away from Shishio, but I thank you. Despite my great loathing for the violence it embodies, I feel as though I have been missing an old, trusted friend."
The demon snorted. "That is nothing but a weapon. You would do just as well, even better, with another in its stead. Such foolishness. To become emotionally attached to a mere chunk of metal and leather. It confuses and blinds you to the true function of a weapon. Just don't forget that if you flip the blade it will reach for its destined purpose, the one it was truly forged for. As it is now it might well be a club. But enough, I've been beating a dead horse with this nonsense. Prepare yourself."
Megumi backed up nervously. She had thought they were on the same side, but now the demon was taking out a long, well-built spear of some sort and unhooking the shell that had been lashed across his lean back. Taking both in hand the smirk was mixed with a look of concentration.
The two were eyeing each other, but no circling. Kenshin had his hand resting just above the pommel in watchful readiness and Usui had his spear set horizontal.
Suddenly Usui lunged and that set off a flurry of motion.
"What is going on." Kikisha's cold voice stopped the two in their tracks. Kenshin had his sword hooked beneath the spear, preventing it from slipping into his bottom ribs. "I leave for a short while and come back to this. Usui, get out of here. Now. Do not protest because I have the right. You are trespassing and instigating a fight. Grounds for trial, and expulsion, which would spoil your plans, correct?"
The oni was furious. He lowered his spear and for a moment Megumi was frightened that he was intending to draw his arm back and heft it at the unarmed shape shifter. Instead he snarled and slid off into the darkness.
"Miss Kikisha-."
"Do not. I gave you my trust and now I see it was misplaced. Keeping Megumi safe is not only my assignment, but also something I need to do to ensure peace. I am sure you have noticed that she is not fully human."
"What!" Megumi shrieked before she could stop herself. Well, they were talking about her as if she wasn't there! She was human. Her mother had been human. She had lived and died as a human. Megumi was a doctor, she should know! She was the one who buried her mother. This made no sense. None.
Two pairs of startled eyes looked towards her: one blue, one violet. Then they looked at each other automatically, equally surprised.
Kikisha was the first to gain her voice and she looked at Megumi almost tentatively, an odd expression considering she just faced down a demon with a spear.
"Sanosuke did not tell you?" Megumi shook her head. Why did all her problems seem to boil down to that obnoxious man? "Nor your companions, although perhaps they did not know." That was more thinking out loud, "I apologize for not telling you sooner, but as you can most likely tell I had no idea that you were not informed of your heritage."
She didn't try to walk up to Megumi, but her expression softened into consideration rather than alarm and her body, which had tensed up, relaxed slightly. Kenshin tried to take a step towards Megumi, concern etched on his expressive face, but she flinched back and Kikisha stopped him.
If she wasn't human, then what was she? What was there besides human? She looked human and felt human. Her appendages were normal; she didn't have wolf ears or a bushy tail. She had never shape shifted or sleep walked to her knowledge. She didn't have super speed or strength. Her sense of smell was slightly dulled from all the pungent herbs she picked, dried, and ground together. Her hearing and sight and touch and taste were normal. She should know. She was trained to test those things for abnormalities after all.
"How… what." She ended more firmly and Kikisha gave an amused look.
"Being a half-ling is not nearly so bad as it is made out to be." Her gaze flicked over to Kenshin whose head was bowed, "Your fox nature does not appear to have manifested. A good thing, the truth be told. I can imagine that would be quite a shock, especially if you did not know."
"Fox?"
That didn't sound too bad. For a bare instant her mind had been overrun with pictures of horrible demons and vampires. Fox, that didn't sound too bad. She had always liked and admired foxes. They were such clever little animals.
She had fed one for a while once, when it came limping into her clearing one day missing a paw. She assumed it had gnawed off the limb to free itself from a trap. The small canine was sort of a brindle color. It had been a curiously beautiful mixture of ginger, red, and black fur. White touched the tip of the tail and the breast of the beast while black coated the legs, muzzle, and ears. The light brown eyes had always watched her warily, never allowing her close. She could have sworn there was a soul behind those colored orbs. Everyday it had allowed her closer, until one day it just disappeared all together. She never saw the shy creature again.
"Kitsune." Kenshin clarified and Kikisha, rather than rolling her eyes, nodded in agreement.
But… those were legends, bedtime stories.
"How do you know?" She wasn't going to accept this on their word. Although they were technically allies, she had only known them for a short while. She had extended a slight bridge of trust, but it was weak and untried. It would be easy for it to be broken. Especially if they were playing a trick on her.
"Nose."
"Ki."
She started at both of them. And what was 'ki'? She assumed nose was the facial feature that adorned the face.
"Your scent is different." Kikisha clarified, "That is probably what attracted Sanosuke in the first place. Whoever raised you did a flawless job of hiding you from supernatural forces. Even Shishio does not know of your existence, and his network is extensive and well trained."
"He knows now?" Megumi asked, anxious. She wasn't sure if being half kitsune was even a good thing or what it entailed. All the old folklore about the crafty tricksters was melding in her overwhelmed mind and she was almost too afraid to ask.
"No, Saitoh would not inform him of such. And we obey Saitoh, all of us." Kikisha said proudly. "Being half of something is not bad. In fact it has advantages. You look nearly human anyway, so you will not have difficulty. Perhaps we can find someone to awaken and train your kitsune powers. It is a bit late for such a thing, but stranger things have been known."
"I disagree Miss Kikisha." Kenshin's voice was hard and filled with anger. "Miss Megumi's fox nature was bound for a reason. You cannot lie and tell me you did not realize it, that you can not."
"Bound yes, but whoever did it is dead and gone. She needs to learn now, or they will slip away."
Megumi stared between them, completely confused. What where they talking about? Bound, bound by what? The way it was spoken made her think of thick chains wrapped around her body. She shivered slightly.
Kikisha noticed the movement and her gaze sharpened, "If you feel so strongly about it, then you should explain everything to her. It is her decision. Not something you can make for her because you feel it will make up for a mistake you made. You forget that not all of us hate our other side. I use it, not the other way around. I use it to achieve my ends. You used to use yours to achieve yours. Now you are torn and distracted."
"So you will kill?"
"It is part of my nature. Everyone dies, and killing is part of life. It would be a waste to have spent half my life earning skills for this revolution only to set my weapons aside and allow others to do the fighting for me." Kikisha replied looking at him keenly. She turned her gaze to Megumi, "Listen to what he tells you and weigh it carefully. He is correct. You must be sure of this. Night is falling and I must go join my mistress. Kenshin will take care of you until tomorrow. Be safe."
She melted into the shadows without a backwards glance.
Megumi looked at Kenshin, but he was looking everywhere but her.
"You don't want to explain this. You're upset that she left this with you and don't know how to start." Megumi jabbed. Her mind had wrapped around the facts nicely enough, almost shockingly so. It would explain the… oddities of her life if nothing else.
His head whipped around towards her, but she was gazing off at the pale fingers of pink and orange that painted the horizon. Another day had gone and slipped into impenetrable night. By now Hiko and Enishi would be coming. Kikisha hadn't said how it went, but she had taken that other werewolf and he hadn't returned with her. That must mean that he had stayed to do… well, whatever they planned.
"I apologize Miss Megumi. Miss Kikisha was correct when she said that I have no right to make that decision, that I don't. I am grateful that she decided to allow me talk to you."
Megumi turned towards him and he extended a hand, beckoning for her to sit down. She did and he sat next to her with his legs folded neatly cross-legged. She fiddled with a lone flower, wondering if she really wanted to hear what he was about to say.
"My mother was human as you can tell. My father was the former lord of the Vampires. I say former because he is deceased now. Surprisingly Shishio didn't kill him, if that is what you're wondering. No, it was the oni. Shishio keeps me here because he wants his enemies close, just as he keeps Usui. He's a cunning, ruthless ruler." Kenshin shook his head sending the low ponytail swishing back and forth. "Not particularly a caring one however. I was actually raised on a small farm with my stepfather and my mother and my half-siblings. Mother never told them what I was and they never suspected a thing. At least not until the fever struck, then I was the only one unaffected. Disease doesn't affect vampires, and my vampire blood protected me, even though I was a perfect target at age six or so. A human man found me and allowed me to train under him although. After a decade of training I made a mistake… I ran off and allowed myself to become all that you've heard in the tales.
"I was heartless, soulless. My opponents were merely dead meat that I hacked through to gain what I wanted. I fought for my father, although I didn't know he was my father at the time, carrying out his ideals and becoming his perfect solider. A killing machine who refused to let his deeds get to him, to show any signs of remorse. No one got close to me, and I never wondered how a pathetic human boy came under the service of the most esteemed, powerful ruler in the land.
"You would understand if I only give you the barest facts from then on? It is still a hurtful, private matter, that it is."
She nodded, entranced. It wasn't everyday you got to hear someone's life story, especially not that of the most feared boogie man of the night with glowing amber eyes and a sword that thirsted for the blood of men.
"I suppose it always goes this way, but I met someone. She changed my life, but I lost her. It was far more complicated than that. I will tell you that Shishio was involved and that she and I started out as enemies."
Megumi was startled to find that his head was bowed, eyes shielded by his coppery bangs. Even so, she noticed the wet spots on the cloth covering his knee that was drawn up in front of him.
"I've changed. A lot. But sometimes it's a struggle. I wonder what my life would have been like if I had stayed with Master. I heard he had a family after I left. Maybe if I had stayed I would have had another family, like the one I lost to the fever. If I hadn't consigned this loathsome half of me would never have surfaced. I would have continued as an ignorant farm boy for the rest of my life. I can see how people would consider ignorance bliss. Knowledge is the cause of pain."
"It… it tries to take over?" Megumi felt ridicules asking in such a blunt, rude manner, but she couldn't think of a better way to phrase it. And she didn't want to make things worse. As a doctor she healed the wounds of the body, but those were often connected with wounds of the mind. It hurt to not be able to help, and even if her bedside manner wasn't the greatest she wanted to try. But she was afraid. Such fragile ground they treaded on. Suddenly she felt that the roles were reversed. Instead of her being the one to take such a huge chance he was the one offering a boon of trust.
"Every waking moment." He replied closing his eyes and leaning back tiredly, "And when I sleep, if I sleep, nightmares plague me."
"I…"
"It is nothing I haven't earn and that I don't deserve." He replied, embittered. His hand trailed across his cheek and he looked at her, "You have no idea the things I've done, that you do not."
Before Megumi could reply to his soft accusation she thought better of it. She had no doubt in her mind that Kaoru, and most likely many others, had already tried to convince him that was the past. The past was something set and unchanging while the future was shifting and ambiguous. Looking back had the perchance to end up smacking into an obstacle that was ahead.
Right now, as far as she understood it, they were on the brink of a serious uprising against the vampires. He was supposedly their leader, but how could they follow someone who regretted everything he did and had ever done? Someone needed to convince the man he wasn't responsible for the things that others did no more than he was responsible for the sun setting in the evening to unleash his blood kin. She bet he would take that burden if it weren't so ludicrous in the first place.
"Kenshin…?" Kaoru looked out and her eyes narrowed. Megumi felt her lips curl in satisfied smile. If her mere presence was enough to get a rise out of the girl this was too easy.
"Yes Miss Kaoru?"
"Uh, I was just going to see if you were coming to dinner." The girls said hesitantly while her eyes clearly blamed Megumi for Kenshin's down attitude.
Kenshin gave her a wide, empty smile and rose to his feet. Giving a hand down like a true gentleman he helped Megumi up. She patted her rump to dislodge any stray strands of grass and waited for him to gather up the fish.
"Kikisha looked mad." Kaoru ventured one the way back through the labyrinth.
"Usui." Kenshin ground out and checked the sword at his side.
Kaoru gave a snort of disgust, "No wonder. I would be in a bad mood too if I had to deal with that slime ball."
They ate in a small corner of the kitchen away from the hustle of the kitchen workers and subsequently prying ears. Yahiko joined them after a minute or two looking incredibly surly with red, wrinkled hands.
"Ugly that took me all day!" He complained through a mouthful of rice. Half way through it he paused and made a face, "And this is nasty. If this is what you guys live off of then no wonder all those vampires are mean. You're inadvertently poisoning them all with your nasty blood!"
"If you don't have anything nice to say then shut your mouth little Yahiko." Kaoru said dishing out a blow to the side of his head. He rubbed it ruefully and sneered.
"Well isn't this cozy?" Megumi teased, sidling up to Kenshin. He made a soft oro and edged away. Too late. Kaoru was already turning red with fury. Well, she was until she realized it. Then she looked away pretending like she didn't care.
There was a silence where only the sounds of careful eating, or not so careful eating, could be heard. Megumi finished hers and placed it down gently.
"Do you think they're okay?" Yahiko asked softly. His light brown eyes were filled with worry and his boyish face was set in a determined cast.
Megumi couldn't help giving an understanding smile at that. She was wondering the same thing. Here they were safe and sound eating a decent meal, in the enemy's stronghold no less, while their two companions were out in the dark with a werewolf.
"You should know that." She chided gently and he looked away guiltily. "You've been with them longer than I have."
"Not much longer. Only a month or so." He planted his fists on the ground in front of him and remarked, "They've been working on this for years. Not together of course. They met in the same town where they picked me up."
"Yahiko, you make it sound like you were a stray dog that followed them home!" Kaoru complained in confusion.
"Something like that." He muttered under his breath.
Megumi tittered deciding that this could turn into a gloomy meal too quickly.
"I don't suppose you drugged them to change their minds about such a stray dog?"
"No. I tried to steal Hiko's money. I was a pickpocket, a thief."
"You then picked the wrong man." Kenshin said with a sympathetic wince and he earned a few looks. Megumi wondered how he knew Hiko.
"Anyway," Yahiko said with a sigh, "I was in some deep trouble. That man's as big as an ox. At least he's not ugly. But when he was about to punish me Enishi interceded. I still don't know why. Maybe he saw himself in me, or something like that. He had it pretty rough after his sister died. That's how they ended up meeting and all that crap. Small world when you're both after the same low-lifes huh?"
"So you went with them." Kenshin nodded.
"More like snuck after them, but I guess that's the same thing. It's not like I had anything else going for me." He concluded bitterly. Kaoru reached over and smothered him in a hug.
Megumi watched enviously. That was something she'd never been able to do. Show her emotions to freely and openly. Maybe as a child she had some sort of chance for showing affection or sympathy, but it was gone now. She wasn't going to change and after this was all over she was going to go home. Then it would be back to her former life. Which was nothing but a cold, lonely day-to-day ordeal.
Suddenly she didn't want to go back. She hadn't considered that she would be in the fighting. She wasn't a fighter she was a doctor! Now she wasn't so sure. Maybe if she could show her worth they would want her around.
Indecision ate at her heart and she felt her stomach roll slightly. If she stressed herself out too much then she was going to be sick. Forcing down the self-inflicted nausea she rose gracefully.
"Do you know where I can find Kikisha?" She asked politely watching Kenshin's eyes. They hooded over and darkened as he realized what she was asking. With a slight nod of understanding, and disapproval, he replied softly, "It is nighttime. She serves her vampire mistress at this time, however, she may still be in the dining hall with her pack."
He set his bowl down and stood up, "I will show you the way."
"Thank you." Megumi replied in the same soft tone realizing that he was going to support her even if he disagreed with her choice. She blushed at his unfailing encouragement. This was something she had never knew she missed until it was offered. She hadn't had someone all the way behind her since her mother died. No one would dare to lend a hand in that direction.
It amazed her to find that the vampires had a grand room for feeding. In one corner she could see the werewolves generally being fairly rowdy. Surprise surprise. Everyone's favorite brunette was in the middle of it. He was arm wrestling with the little female that had accompanied the vampire Aoshi to their camp.
"Who's that werewolf?" She asked.
Kenshin gave a sidelong look and smiled, "That's Miss Misao. It is good to see her so happy again."
On the far end of the table leaning against the wall was Kikisha. She was watching the event with unseeing eyes.
It wasn't until Kenshin and Megumi were almost in front of her that her odd, pale eyes focused. Rather than get annoyed or angry that her guard had been down she looked slightly pensive and regretful. With a half smile and a quick look around she led them back to a secluded corner.
"That was fast. Have you considered it thoroughly?" There was a brief, searching glance before she nodded, "A pointless question. You would not have come otherwise."
"Yes, I want to learn about my other half and my powers. You're right, it wouldn't do to suddenly realize them later on." If there was a later on she thought grimly to herself. "That could be dangerous to myself and my patients."
"Wise decision. And I thank you Himura for your assistance even though it must be grating." Kikisha said without any smugness. She gave a slight bow to Kenshin then turned back to Megumi, "It will be difficult to procure a teacher because kitsunes are very secretive deities. They do not care for the world of supernatural politics, preferring instead to make their presence more known to the mortals. Perhaps they find them easier to trick. I spoke with my alphas and Tokio had graciously offered to give you the basics. You may begin tonight if you feel up to the task."
She nodded wondering which one was Tokio. Some of the werewolves had wandered off much to her relief. Unfortunately neither Sanosuke nor Misao had left the table. It was simply amazing that those two were the ones she wanted to avoid yet they stuck around. Even more so was that they all had gotten stuck in the same tangled web.
Misao said something and turned accidentally. Her green eyes latched onto Megumi and she went pale. Kikisha didn't seem to notice the girl's reaction, but Sano was tugging on Misao's arm insistently. He looked up too and Megumi flushed.
"Ignore them. It is best if you do not start trouble with Misao. She had finally calmed down. Aoshi's death was difficult for her to accept and she is very volatile. Do not leave my side for any reason. And when in Tokio's company be sure to stay close. Misao will go to her duties soon enough, as will Sanosuke."
Megumi didn't have to ask about the sudden orders. She noticed the steely look in the young female werewolf's eyes well enough herself. The girl must still be in some pain if she was carrying around such pain and hate. The half-fox was certain the reason it was directed at her was because she was a direct connection to her master's murderer. Megumi couldn't condemn Enishi for fighting back or protecting them and she wasn't going to feel sorry for some little chit who mistook the whole thing as a reason to hate indiscriminately. They were supposed to be on the same side.
"Whoa there, that's just Foxy, Misao. She's sticking around for a bit so you shouldn't do anything rash, 'kay?" Sano said awkwardly patting the girl's shoulder. She shrugged him off and disappeared down a hallway without a word.
Sanosuke offered a sheepish grin. "Sorry, she's just upset." He looked at Kikisha and offered a watery grin in response to her promising frown, "Hehe, better get going. Wouldn't want my mistress to go without, now would we?"
"You will get yours later Sanosuke." Kikisha threatened in a bland tone. He cringed and picked up the pace.
By then most of the pack had dispersed for one reason or another. Megumi suspected it was in response to Kikisha's obvious displeasure.
Only two remained: the black male and the white female. Of course, they didn't look like that now. In their human forms they looked no less dangerous however. The man's golden eyes flickered over her and she forced herself up straight. It didn't help that her mind reminded her that wolves ate foxes. His narrow face and black hair lent a strict look while his lean body screamed power. The female was actually quite short in stature. She was perhaps an inch or so shy of Kenshin's height. Her willowy form seemed fragile, but the way she carried herself spoke of some inner power. Megumi was surprised to see that her hair held the same silvery quality as her wolf form. It was tied up in a formal, intricate style. Her eyes were solid white; something Megumi's doctor training tended to associate with the loss of sight.
"Welcome. Kikisha informed us that you are in need of some guidance." The female said standing up. She didn't seem blind and all her movements were honed grace. She gave a formal bow of respect. "I am called Tokio and this is my mate Saitoh. Together we rule this pack. As alpha we are responsible for our packs safety. Before I can teach you anything you must swear that the knowledge will never, under any circumstances, be used against a member of the pack."
Megumi knew immediately she was speaking of Misao. Saitoh was staring, but he didn't offer the snide comment Megumi saw lurking in his murky eyes.
"I swear it on the grave of my mother." Megumi said. To her that was the most potent oath she could ever give.
"Then we will begin."
A/N: Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah-shit! I'm running out of pre-made chapters -__-' And at the rate I'm going a snail could beat my fanny. The chapter after this [Soujirou's], was such a pain in the butt. It took a whole week and I'm still not satisfied with it .;; But it's important in setting up some things *growls*. I'd like this done by Spring Break, but fat chance of that. 50+ pages in two weeks?
Firuze Khanume: Hey, that's okay (I'm lazy too -__-' I try not to be). Part of what's so hard about this is that this really doesn't follow either the anime or the manga. I'm shoving people together that normally wouldn't have any association, or into positions they wouldn't have to deal with. Okita has become somewhat of a pet of mine. He's probably very OOC, but I really don't have much to base him off (except Soujirou *shudder* and two of them?! Okita didn't do much in the OAVs ^^'). I haven't seen PeaceMaker Kurogane.*grins* I suppose I am a bit new writing wise ^_______^ My account is about three years old so I don't think of myself that way. Drifter was pure insanity *chokes* I was reading back over it and wondering what I was on when I wrote it. That html mistake had been corrected 5 times before I finally TOOK the chapter out and replaced it -__- FF's not behaving apparently, which is why this isn't html. Fangirl lapses are totally allow, even for me (and that's really not my thing). Oh heck yeah he would! But I had to even the playing field a bit like I did between Aoshi and Enishi. Hiko is IMO the best fighter and at the top of my list. Wow, I got Enishi IC? *starts laughing* I vaguely know his characteristics and just kind of *shrug* expanded. I love to drop hints!
Mary-Ann: I'm one of those people who are borderline-fanatic about details and filling in specific holes O__O I have yet to figure out if that's a good thing or not. I've been accused of over thinking. And it's not that I mine answering your questions, but I wouldn't want someone else to accidently read and get a spoiler they didn't want X__X I know, other people probably don't do things like read author's replies, but I do and I've had things like that happen. *guilty* Please don't use me as a source then. The last werewolf book I read was 'Blood and Chocolate' about four years ago. I'm basically BSing it to suit my needs ^^' Actually, I'm basing it on actual wolf society mixed with some [human] ethics and morals. The thing about werewolves being vampire slaves came from a special that was on the Discovery Channel around Halloween (when this fic was first conceived; even if it wasn't started for another month because of plotting). The collars were nicked from InuYasha ^^
Strife3: Geez, sorry about that. FF refused to let me fix it. It's (hopefully) better now.
Fyyrrose: I didn't until you said something, but it didn't seem to matter since FF didn't let me correct it! x-( Soujirou's alive isn't he? So stop whinning! The MUY needs to see what he's getting into. And I'm not doing another apology. The other one was perfectly fine. -__- I formally apologize for making the insinuation that Soujirou Seta is a freak or a kid. Better? You're already done with school. Oh, and G-ma's bribing me to get good grades. I need a DVD player and tv. That'd be nice. Yes, a job. But that means I'll have less time to write and less time to talk to your sorry self. *points to Fizure* Two to two and you didn't ask HH her opinion LMAO! And let me remind you of this 4:5 is NOT a good ratio!
Wistful-Eyes: Kenny got his moment of glory in Drifter. Moment, well 40k words! But I suppose he had to share with Battousai and a smidge of Aoshi. Sanosuke Sagara is my favorite character ^__^ For all that says anyway. He doesn't even have much of a role in here or in Drifter.
MissBehavin: They're like a two men wrecking crew ^^ They deserve a bit of ego and the 'my way or the highway' attitude. Megumi doesn't want to recognize the fact [in her mind] that she's not what she's always thought herself to be. It comes crashing down anyway. LMAO, Hiko has reasons. For him there has to be an ulterior motive. Characters are like that. The vindictive little beasts! Don't let them win ^__^
"You were treated well I trust Miss Megumi?" The red haired man asked, looking over at her. His eyes were searching, as if he dared her to say no so he could deal with it appropriately.
A warm feeling rushed her body, one she hadn't felt in a very long time. After living on her own wits for so long she had learned to take care of herself. Someone showing even the tiniest bit of concern was almost so foreign that she didn't recognize it for what it was.
"Abruptly." She sniffed to cover up her real reaction to the question. His eyes softened and he gave a smile.
"I'm glad to hear that, that I am."
"How…" Megumi started before she realized she wasn't even sure what she wanted to ask, or if it was too personal to even consider. She was usually very direct when she wasn't exercising her playful sense of humor. Strict some would say. Mostly former patients.
He looked at her quizzically, "What? What is it Miss Megumi? There is nothing to fear here at the moment."
A noble sentiment, but she knew that he couldn't possibly ensure that.
He looked amused at something and she narrowed her eyes. She wasn't entirely appreciative of the treatment she had been receiving. Admittedly it was a lot better than the one Shishio would give if he somehow detected her. But dealing with touchy half-werewolves and smiling idiots who treated her like a child was grating.
"What?" She asked in a pleasant voice. Belatedly she realized it might have worked better if she had used a nicer word choice. What was rude and common. Something like that Sanosuke guy would say.
"You don't know who I am."
"So? I didn't know who any of you were before I came to this forsaken place." She snapped, a hot blush spreading across her features. Had she treaded on someone's toes? She was usually better at tact! The events had taken her off guard and it was affecting her judgment. That would have to stop. Immediately. There was no reason to give that insufferable man Hiko any more ammunition.
Not that she cared. In fact, he could go jump in a river after all of this was said and done. It would be doing the world a favor. She didn't even know what the pair of killers would do after they managed to succeed. If they succeeded that was. As a doctor she knew of and accepted risk. It was part of the profession. And right now she could see a very high risk factor. Nonetheless, it was something that needed to be done. Or at least the two felt it did, from what she could tell they had dedicated their lives to it. Some might even find that admirable.
The slight red hair man gave a soft chuckled and shook his head. "I forgot you have not been here long. Forgive my oversight if you would please. And let me introduce myself: Kenshin Himura also known as the Battousai."
Her hand flew instinctively to her mouth and she inched back. His face was sad, but it retained that wry sense of hurt humor. But the Battousai was a legend, wasn't he? Merely a bedtime story for unruly children, or as a warning to a venturesome young man. Yes, now that she looked closer she could see how he could be what he claimed. The only thing missing were fangs and glowing yellow eyes. Well, and she had always imagined him a bit taller.
"Oh my."
"I suppose, but I have made a vow not to kill. Miss Kikisha knew what she was doing. Although me may have our differences, she would never endanger her charge purposefully."
She assumed that was to be reassuring. However, all he did was confirm that her caretaker had her own agenda to pursue. "So she might do it unintentionally?"
"Oro?"
"Never mind." Megumi sighed and massaged her temples with slow strokes from her fingers. "So you're really half vampire then. There seems to be a lot of you half-lings running around here. Can't keep the pants on I suppose. It's such a problem in humans I don't know why I'd think it was any different with you guys."
"I am not quite sure as to what you are saying, but yes, I am." He scratched the back of his head and Megumi studied the cross-shaped scar on his cheek. Although she sensed that it was quite old, the flesh coloring made it seem very fresh. Even with his fair complexion, it shouldn't have been so dark or precise. He noticed her gaze and brushed her questioning look off, "It is nothing but an old reminder."
"Sorry, I didn't mean to stare."
He opened his mouth to answer when the line gave a jerk. Within an instant he had hold of the pole and was playing the line. A good-sized fish flopped onto the land. With a quick motion he stunned then killed it.
"Why are you fishing?"
"Oro?" He said in confusion and she was rapidly becoming irritated with the meaningless noise, "What do you mean Miss Megumi."
"You don't eat fish do you?" She said slowly, as if pointing it out.
He blinked, "I can. But that is not what you are asking, is it." He shrugged, "I help people. It eases the darkness that tears inside of me. Being half and not whole is difficult. The two natures are at odds, and it is the darker half that is stronger. If I let it I truly would deserve all the stories about my infamous deeds."
She considered this. Her past was far from pristine, especially after her mother died. But she had never aspired to be anything but a healer and doctor.
"Battousai, I figured I'd find you here. Ah, but you have someone new with you. Would you introduce me to the beauty?"
A tall, harsh looking demon stepped out from the shadows the trees. The strip of cloth around his eyes ensured that he couldn't see her, and Megumi wondered how he could tell. There was something about him, even with his familiarity with Kenshin that set her on edge and made her hair stand up. She subconsciously placed Kenshin between her and the monster.
"Usui, you are not supposed to come here. If Saitoh found out…"
"That dog? He can't do anything to me but shiver at my feet like a good little mutt. I own him if you recall. And I can exercise my powers over him to punish." The oni snorted, clearly unimpressed.
"But it was an agreement…"
"Don't be a stickler, it doesn't become you. Besides, I need to talk to you," He glanced around smoothly and his lips twitched, "Without the interference of the hounds."
"Miss Megumi, this is Usui. He is an alliance." Kenshin introduced politely, and quite blatantly not extending the courtesy to the oni. Not that it mattered.
"Ah, Megumi is a pretty name." He offered before paying little more attention to her. She glared, but she knew his type. Man, demon it made no difference. They saw females as property or as a boast. In fact, she had been treated that way all her life as a woman. Not as a doctor. When she was treating they were nothing but deferential and polite. Kenshin wasn't like that, she could already tell. The first man to actually treat her like a real person had been Enishi.
"Battousai, if you would please pass on this message to the dogs: Tell them to mind their own business in vampire affairs. They've treaded one too many times on thin ice. Our Lord," This last word was said dripping with scorn, "Is becoming rather annoyed. It may hinder laid plans if he jumps in an unexpected way."
"Saitoh knows what he is doing." Kenshin replied sharply. Although there was no weapon at his side, Megumi could see that he instinctively brought his hand up to where the hilt would normally be. Grasping air, it seemed to take a moment before he brought his hand back down to his side. "But you said you wished to speak to me. Please, do so now."
"Ah, always polite." The oni sneered, "I did want to speak with you. On the matter of your trespass."
Kenshin's eyes flitted back to Megumi, worried. His shoulders slumped a bit and he said, "I thought you might. Can we do it another time then?"
"Afraid not, this needs to be covered now. Before things, the chaos, start to happen and it is conveniently forgotten. I'm no fool. Especially not the one Shishio would make me out to be."
"Can't this wait?" Megumi snapped, suddenly finding her voice. The one turned his head to look at her and gave an uncanny smile. One might even call it wicked. She didn't shrink back from his nonexistent gaze; instead she glared back.
"How amusing, so the beauty speaks. Being female I doubt she has any idea of what a grave error you made or why you have to repay it." Usui said condescendingly. Megumi gritted her teeth and made herself back off. He was right in one sense, she had no idea what was going on. That, however, had nothing to do with her being female. He was nothing more than a male chauvinistic pig.
"If you would give us some space Miss Megumi? I am afraid this could get rather violent. Miss Kikisha placed you in my care and I would hate to bring her wrath down on me. But I would hate it even more if you were hurt because of this, that I would." Kenshin remarked, never taking his eyes off the demon that stood before him.
"At least you show sense. Shishio underestimates you greatly. A grave mistake on his part, but a great fortune on ours."
He retrieved what looked like a cracked leather sheath with a frayed hilt sticking out from it. Kenshin looked displeased that the demon had it, but he snatched it when it was tossed to him. With a practiced motion that spoke of familiarity he hooked it at his side. With astonishing speed he released the blade from its containment and sliced the air in front of him with a hard, fast swing. Twisting his wrist he brought the blade to a halt and re-sheathed it with a nod.
"I do not know how you spirited my blade away from Shishio, but I thank you. Despite my great loathing for the violence it embodies, I feel as though I have been missing an old, trusted friend."
The demon snorted. "That is nothing but a weapon. You would do just as well, even better, with another in its stead. Such foolishness. To become emotionally attached to a mere chunk of metal and leather. It confuses and blinds you to the true function of a weapon. Just don't forget that if you flip the blade it will reach for its destined purpose, the one it was truly forged for. As it is now it might well be a club. But enough, I've been beating a dead horse with this nonsense. Prepare yourself."
Megumi backed up nervously. She had thought they were on the same side, but now the demon was taking out a long, well-built spear of some sort and unhooking the shell that had been lashed across his lean back. Taking both in hand the smirk was mixed with a look of concentration.
The two were eyeing each other, but no circling. Kenshin had his hand resting just above the pommel in watchful readiness and Usui had his spear set horizontal.
Suddenly Usui lunged and that set off a flurry of motion.
"What is going on." Kikisha's cold voice stopped the two in their tracks. Kenshin had his sword hooked beneath the spear, preventing it from slipping into his bottom ribs. "I leave for a short while and come back to this. Usui, get out of here. Now. Do not protest because I have the right. You are trespassing and instigating a fight. Grounds for trial, and expulsion, which would spoil your plans, correct?"
The oni was furious. He lowered his spear and for a moment Megumi was frightened that he was intending to draw his arm back and heft it at the unarmed shape shifter. Instead he snarled and slid off into the darkness.
"Miss Kikisha-."
"Do not. I gave you my trust and now I see it was misplaced. Keeping Megumi safe is not only my assignment, but also something I need to do to ensure peace. I am sure you have noticed that she is not fully human."
"What!" Megumi shrieked before she could stop herself. Well, they were talking about her as if she wasn't there! She was human. Her mother had been human. She had lived and died as a human. Megumi was a doctor, she should know! She was the one who buried her mother. This made no sense. None.
Two pairs of startled eyes looked towards her: one blue, one violet. Then they looked at each other automatically, equally surprised.
Kikisha was the first to gain her voice and she looked at Megumi almost tentatively, an odd expression considering she just faced down a demon with a spear.
"Sanosuke did not tell you?" Megumi shook her head. Why did all her problems seem to boil down to that obnoxious man? "Nor your companions, although perhaps they did not know." That was more thinking out loud, "I apologize for not telling you sooner, but as you can most likely tell I had no idea that you were not informed of your heritage."
She didn't try to walk up to Megumi, but her expression softened into consideration rather than alarm and her body, which had tensed up, relaxed slightly. Kenshin tried to take a step towards Megumi, concern etched on his expressive face, but she flinched back and Kikisha stopped him.
If she wasn't human, then what was she? What was there besides human? She looked human and felt human. Her appendages were normal; she didn't have wolf ears or a bushy tail. She had never shape shifted or sleep walked to her knowledge. She didn't have super speed or strength. Her sense of smell was slightly dulled from all the pungent herbs she picked, dried, and ground together. Her hearing and sight and touch and taste were normal. She should know. She was trained to test those things for abnormalities after all.
"How… what." She ended more firmly and Kikisha gave an amused look.
"Being a half-ling is not nearly so bad as it is made out to be." Her gaze flicked over to Kenshin whose head was bowed, "Your fox nature does not appear to have manifested. A good thing, the truth be told. I can imagine that would be quite a shock, especially if you did not know."
"Fox?"
That didn't sound too bad. For a bare instant her mind had been overrun with pictures of horrible demons and vampires. Fox, that didn't sound too bad. She had always liked and admired foxes. They were such clever little animals.
She had fed one for a while once, when it came limping into her clearing one day missing a paw. She assumed it had gnawed off the limb to free itself from a trap. The small canine was sort of a brindle color. It had been a curiously beautiful mixture of ginger, red, and black fur. White touched the tip of the tail and the breast of the beast while black coated the legs, muzzle, and ears. The light brown eyes had always watched her warily, never allowing her close. She could have sworn there was a soul behind those colored orbs. Everyday it had allowed her closer, until one day it just disappeared all together. She never saw the shy creature again.
"Kitsune." Kenshin clarified and Kikisha, rather than rolling her eyes, nodded in agreement.
But… those were legends, bedtime stories.
"How do you know?" She wasn't going to accept this on their word. Although they were technically allies, she had only known them for a short while. She had extended a slight bridge of trust, but it was weak and untried. It would be easy for it to be broken. Especially if they were playing a trick on her.
"Nose."
"Ki."
She started at both of them. And what was 'ki'? She assumed nose was the facial feature that adorned the face.
"Your scent is different." Kikisha clarified, "That is probably what attracted Sanosuke in the first place. Whoever raised you did a flawless job of hiding you from supernatural forces. Even Shishio does not know of your existence, and his network is extensive and well trained."
"He knows now?" Megumi asked, anxious. She wasn't sure if being half kitsune was even a good thing or what it entailed. All the old folklore about the crafty tricksters was melding in her overwhelmed mind and she was almost too afraid to ask.
"No, Saitoh would not inform him of such. And we obey Saitoh, all of us." Kikisha said proudly. "Being half of something is not bad. In fact it has advantages. You look nearly human anyway, so you will not have difficulty. Perhaps we can find someone to awaken and train your kitsune powers. It is a bit late for such a thing, but stranger things have been known."
"I disagree Miss Kikisha." Kenshin's voice was hard and filled with anger. "Miss Megumi's fox nature was bound for a reason. You cannot lie and tell me you did not realize it, that you can not."
"Bound yes, but whoever did it is dead and gone. She needs to learn now, or they will slip away."
Megumi stared between them, completely confused. What where they talking about? Bound, bound by what? The way it was spoken made her think of thick chains wrapped around her body. She shivered slightly.
Kikisha noticed the movement and her gaze sharpened, "If you feel so strongly about it, then you should explain everything to her. It is her decision. Not something you can make for her because you feel it will make up for a mistake you made. You forget that not all of us hate our other side. I use it, not the other way around. I use it to achieve my ends. You used to use yours to achieve yours. Now you are torn and distracted."
"So you will kill?"
"It is part of my nature. Everyone dies, and killing is part of life. It would be a waste to have spent half my life earning skills for this revolution only to set my weapons aside and allow others to do the fighting for me." Kikisha replied looking at him keenly. She turned her gaze to Megumi, "Listen to what he tells you and weigh it carefully. He is correct. You must be sure of this. Night is falling and I must go join my mistress. Kenshin will take care of you until tomorrow. Be safe."
She melted into the shadows without a backwards glance.
Megumi looked at Kenshin, but he was looking everywhere but her.
"You don't want to explain this. You're upset that she left this with you and don't know how to start." Megumi jabbed. Her mind had wrapped around the facts nicely enough, almost shockingly so. It would explain the… oddities of her life if nothing else.
His head whipped around towards her, but she was gazing off at the pale fingers of pink and orange that painted the horizon. Another day had gone and slipped into impenetrable night. By now Hiko and Enishi would be coming. Kikisha hadn't said how it went, but she had taken that other werewolf and he hadn't returned with her. That must mean that he had stayed to do… well, whatever they planned.
"I apologize Miss Megumi. Miss Kikisha was correct when she said that I have no right to make that decision, that I don't. I am grateful that she decided to allow me talk to you."
Megumi turned towards him and he extended a hand, beckoning for her to sit down. She did and he sat next to her with his legs folded neatly cross-legged. She fiddled with a lone flower, wondering if she really wanted to hear what he was about to say.
"My mother was human as you can tell. My father was the former lord of the Vampires. I say former because he is deceased now. Surprisingly Shishio didn't kill him, if that is what you're wondering. No, it was the oni. Shishio keeps me here because he wants his enemies close, just as he keeps Usui. He's a cunning, ruthless ruler." Kenshin shook his head sending the low ponytail swishing back and forth. "Not particularly a caring one however. I was actually raised on a small farm with my stepfather and my mother and my half-siblings. Mother never told them what I was and they never suspected a thing. At least not until the fever struck, then I was the only one unaffected. Disease doesn't affect vampires, and my vampire blood protected me, even though I was a perfect target at age six or so. A human man found me and allowed me to train under him although. After a decade of training I made a mistake… I ran off and allowed myself to become all that you've heard in the tales.
"I was heartless, soulless. My opponents were merely dead meat that I hacked through to gain what I wanted. I fought for my father, although I didn't know he was my father at the time, carrying out his ideals and becoming his perfect solider. A killing machine who refused to let his deeds get to him, to show any signs of remorse. No one got close to me, and I never wondered how a pathetic human boy came under the service of the most esteemed, powerful ruler in the land.
"You would understand if I only give you the barest facts from then on? It is still a hurtful, private matter, that it is."
She nodded, entranced. It wasn't everyday you got to hear someone's life story, especially not that of the most feared boogie man of the night with glowing amber eyes and a sword that thirsted for the blood of men.
"I suppose it always goes this way, but I met someone. She changed my life, but I lost her. It was far more complicated than that. I will tell you that Shishio was involved and that she and I started out as enemies."
Megumi was startled to find that his head was bowed, eyes shielded by his coppery bangs. Even so, she noticed the wet spots on the cloth covering his knee that was drawn up in front of him.
"I've changed. A lot. But sometimes it's a struggle. I wonder what my life would have been like if I had stayed with Master. I heard he had a family after I left. Maybe if I had stayed I would have had another family, like the one I lost to the fever. If I hadn't consigned this loathsome half of me would never have surfaced. I would have continued as an ignorant farm boy for the rest of my life. I can see how people would consider ignorance bliss. Knowledge is the cause of pain."
"It… it tries to take over?" Megumi felt ridicules asking in such a blunt, rude manner, but she couldn't think of a better way to phrase it. And she didn't want to make things worse. As a doctor she healed the wounds of the body, but those were often connected with wounds of the mind. It hurt to not be able to help, and even if her bedside manner wasn't the greatest she wanted to try. But she was afraid. Such fragile ground they treaded on. Suddenly she felt that the roles were reversed. Instead of her being the one to take such a huge chance he was the one offering a boon of trust.
"Every waking moment." He replied closing his eyes and leaning back tiredly, "And when I sleep, if I sleep, nightmares plague me."
"I…"
"It is nothing I haven't earn and that I don't deserve." He replied, embittered. His hand trailed across his cheek and he looked at her, "You have no idea the things I've done, that you do not."
Before Megumi could reply to his soft accusation she thought better of it. She had no doubt in her mind that Kaoru, and most likely many others, had already tried to convince him that was the past. The past was something set and unchanging while the future was shifting and ambiguous. Looking back had the perchance to end up smacking into an obstacle that was ahead.
Right now, as far as she understood it, they were on the brink of a serious uprising against the vampires. He was supposedly their leader, but how could they follow someone who regretted everything he did and had ever done? Someone needed to convince the man he wasn't responsible for the things that others did no more than he was responsible for the sun setting in the evening to unleash his blood kin. She bet he would take that burden if it weren't so ludicrous in the first place.
"Kenshin…?" Kaoru looked out and her eyes narrowed. Megumi felt her lips curl in satisfied smile. If her mere presence was enough to get a rise out of the girl this was too easy.
"Yes Miss Kaoru?"
"Uh, I was just going to see if you were coming to dinner." The girls said hesitantly while her eyes clearly blamed Megumi for Kenshin's down attitude.
Kenshin gave her a wide, empty smile and rose to his feet. Giving a hand down like a true gentleman he helped Megumi up. She patted her rump to dislodge any stray strands of grass and waited for him to gather up the fish.
"Kikisha looked mad." Kaoru ventured one the way back through the labyrinth.
"Usui." Kenshin ground out and checked the sword at his side.
Kaoru gave a snort of disgust, "No wonder. I would be in a bad mood too if I had to deal with that slime ball."
They ate in a small corner of the kitchen away from the hustle of the kitchen workers and subsequently prying ears. Yahiko joined them after a minute or two looking incredibly surly with red, wrinkled hands.
"Ugly that took me all day!" He complained through a mouthful of rice. Half way through it he paused and made a face, "And this is nasty. If this is what you guys live off of then no wonder all those vampires are mean. You're inadvertently poisoning them all with your nasty blood!"
"If you don't have anything nice to say then shut your mouth little Yahiko." Kaoru said dishing out a blow to the side of his head. He rubbed it ruefully and sneered.
"Well isn't this cozy?" Megumi teased, sidling up to Kenshin. He made a soft oro and edged away. Too late. Kaoru was already turning red with fury. Well, she was until she realized it. Then she looked away pretending like she didn't care.
There was a silence where only the sounds of careful eating, or not so careful eating, could be heard. Megumi finished hers and placed it down gently.
"Do you think they're okay?" Yahiko asked softly. His light brown eyes were filled with worry and his boyish face was set in a determined cast.
Megumi couldn't help giving an understanding smile at that. She was wondering the same thing. Here they were safe and sound eating a decent meal, in the enemy's stronghold no less, while their two companions were out in the dark with a werewolf.
"You should know that." She chided gently and he looked away guiltily. "You've been with them longer than I have."
"Not much longer. Only a month or so." He planted his fists on the ground in front of him and remarked, "They've been working on this for years. Not together of course. They met in the same town where they picked me up."
"Yahiko, you make it sound like you were a stray dog that followed them home!" Kaoru complained in confusion.
"Something like that." He muttered under his breath.
Megumi tittered deciding that this could turn into a gloomy meal too quickly.
"I don't suppose you drugged them to change their minds about such a stray dog?"
"No. I tried to steal Hiko's money. I was a pickpocket, a thief."
"You then picked the wrong man." Kenshin said with a sympathetic wince and he earned a few looks. Megumi wondered how he knew Hiko.
"Anyway," Yahiko said with a sigh, "I was in some deep trouble. That man's as big as an ox. At least he's not ugly. But when he was about to punish me Enishi interceded. I still don't know why. Maybe he saw himself in me, or something like that. He had it pretty rough after his sister died. That's how they ended up meeting and all that crap. Small world when you're both after the same low-lifes huh?"
"So you went with them." Kenshin nodded.
"More like snuck after them, but I guess that's the same thing. It's not like I had anything else going for me." He concluded bitterly. Kaoru reached over and smothered him in a hug.
Megumi watched enviously. That was something she'd never been able to do. Show her emotions to freely and openly. Maybe as a child she had some sort of chance for showing affection or sympathy, but it was gone now. She wasn't going to change and after this was all over she was going to go home. Then it would be back to her former life. Which was nothing but a cold, lonely day-to-day ordeal.
Suddenly she didn't want to go back. She hadn't considered that she would be in the fighting. She wasn't a fighter she was a doctor! Now she wasn't so sure. Maybe if she could show her worth they would want her around.
Indecision ate at her heart and she felt her stomach roll slightly. If she stressed herself out too much then she was going to be sick. Forcing down the self-inflicted nausea she rose gracefully.
"Do you know where I can find Kikisha?" She asked politely watching Kenshin's eyes. They hooded over and darkened as he realized what she was asking. With a slight nod of understanding, and disapproval, he replied softly, "It is nighttime. She serves her vampire mistress at this time, however, she may still be in the dining hall with her pack."
He set his bowl down and stood up, "I will show you the way."
"Thank you." Megumi replied in the same soft tone realizing that he was going to support her even if he disagreed with her choice. She blushed at his unfailing encouragement. This was something she had never knew she missed until it was offered. She hadn't had someone all the way behind her since her mother died. No one would dare to lend a hand in that direction.
It amazed her to find that the vampires had a grand room for feeding. In one corner she could see the werewolves generally being fairly rowdy. Surprise surprise. Everyone's favorite brunette was in the middle of it. He was arm wrestling with the little female that had accompanied the vampire Aoshi to their camp.
"Who's that werewolf?" She asked.
Kenshin gave a sidelong look and smiled, "That's Miss Misao. It is good to see her so happy again."
On the far end of the table leaning against the wall was Kikisha. She was watching the event with unseeing eyes.
It wasn't until Kenshin and Megumi were almost in front of her that her odd, pale eyes focused. Rather than get annoyed or angry that her guard had been down she looked slightly pensive and regretful. With a half smile and a quick look around she led them back to a secluded corner.
"That was fast. Have you considered it thoroughly?" There was a brief, searching glance before she nodded, "A pointless question. You would not have come otherwise."
"Yes, I want to learn about my other half and my powers. You're right, it wouldn't do to suddenly realize them later on." If there was a later on she thought grimly to herself. "That could be dangerous to myself and my patients."
"Wise decision. And I thank you Himura for your assistance even though it must be grating." Kikisha said without any smugness. She gave a slight bow to Kenshin then turned back to Megumi, "It will be difficult to procure a teacher because kitsunes are very secretive deities. They do not care for the world of supernatural politics, preferring instead to make their presence more known to the mortals. Perhaps they find them easier to trick. I spoke with my alphas and Tokio had graciously offered to give you the basics. You may begin tonight if you feel up to the task."
She nodded wondering which one was Tokio. Some of the werewolves had wandered off much to her relief. Unfortunately neither Sanosuke nor Misao had left the table. It was simply amazing that those two were the ones she wanted to avoid yet they stuck around. Even more so was that they all had gotten stuck in the same tangled web.
Misao said something and turned accidentally. Her green eyes latched onto Megumi and she went pale. Kikisha didn't seem to notice the girl's reaction, but Sano was tugging on Misao's arm insistently. He looked up too and Megumi flushed.
"Ignore them. It is best if you do not start trouble with Misao. She had finally calmed down. Aoshi's death was difficult for her to accept and she is very volatile. Do not leave my side for any reason. And when in Tokio's company be sure to stay close. Misao will go to her duties soon enough, as will Sanosuke."
Megumi didn't have to ask about the sudden orders. She noticed the steely look in the young female werewolf's eyes well enough herself. The girl must still be in some pain if she was carrying around such pain and hate. The half-fox was certain the reason it was directed at her was because she was a direct connection to her master's murderer. Megumi couldn't condemn Enishi for fighting back or protecting them and she wasn't going to feel sorry for some little chit who mistook the whole thing as a reason to hate indiscriminately. They were supposed to be on the same side.
"Whoa there, that's just Foxy, Misao. She's sticking around for a bit so you shouldn't do anything rash, 'kay?" Sano said awkwardly patting the girl's shoulder. She shrugged him off and disappeared down a hallway without a word.
Sanosuke offered a sheepish grin. "Sorry, she's just upset." He looked at Kikisha and offered a watery grin in response to her promising frown, "Hehe, better get going. Wouldn't want my mistress to go without, now would we?"
"You will get yours later Sanosuke." Kikisha threatened in a bland tone. He cringed and picked up the pace.
By then most of the pack had dispersed for one reason or another. Megumi suspected it was in response to Kikisha's obvious displeasure.
Only two remained: the black male and the white female. Of course, they didn't look like that now. In their human forms they looked no less dangerous however. The man's golden eyes flickered over her and she forced herself up straight. It didn't help that her mind reminded her that wolves ate foxes. His narrow face and black hair lent a strict look while his lean body screamed power. The female was actually quite short in stature. She was perhaps an inch or so shy of Kenshin's height. Her willowy form seemed fragile, but the way she carried herself spoke of some inner power. Megumi was surprised to see that her hair held the same silvery quality as her wolf form. It was tied up in a formal, intricate style. Her eyes were solid white; something Megumi's doctor training tended to associate with the loss of sight.
"Welcome. Kikisha informed us that you are in need of some guidance." The female said standing up. She didn't seem blind and all her movements were honed grace. She gave a formal bow of respect. "I am called Tokio and this is my mate Saitoh. Together we rule this pack. As alpha we are responsible for our packs safety. Before I can teach you anything you must swear that the knowledge will never, under any circumstances, be used against a member of the pack."
Megumi knew immediately she was speaking of Misao. Saitoh was staring, but he didn't offer the snide comment Megumi saw lurking in his murky eyes.
"I swear it on the grave of my mother." Megumi said. To her that was the most potent oath she could ever give.
"Then we will begin."
A/N: Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah-shit! I'm running out of pre-made chapters -__-' And at the rate I'm going a snail could beat my fanny. The chapter after this [Soujirou's], was such a pain in the butt. It took a whole week and I'm still not satisfied with it .;; But it's important in setting up some things *growls*. I'd like this done by Spring Break, but fat chance of that. 50+ pages in two weeks?
Firuze Khanume: Hey, that's okay (I'm lazy too -__-' I try not to be). Part of what's so hard about this is that this really doesn't follow either the anime or the manga. I'm shoving people together that normally wouldn't have any association, or into positions they wouldn't have to deal with. Okita has become somewhat of a pet of mine. He's probably very OOC, but I really don't have much to base him off (except Soujirou *shudder* and two of them?! Okita didn't do much in the OAVs ^^'). I haven't seen PeaceMaker Kurogane.*grins* I suppose I am a bit new writing wise ^_______^ My account is about three years old so I don't think of myself that way. Drifter was pure insanity *chokes* I was reading back over it and wondering what I was on when I wrote it. That html mistake had been corrected 5 times before I finally TOOK the chapter out and replaced it -__- FF's not behaving apparently, which is why this isn't html. Fangirl lapses are totally allow, even for me (and that's really not my thing). Oh heck yeah he would! But I had to even the playing field a bit like I did between Aoshi and Enishi. Hiko is IMO the best fighter and at the top of my list. Wow, I got Enishi IC? *starts laughing* I vaguely know his characteristics and just kind of *shrug* expanded. I love to drop hints!
Mary-Ann: I'm one of those people who are borderline-fanatic about details and filling in specific holes O__O I have yet to figure out if that's a good thing or not. I've been accused of over thinking. And it's not that I mine answering your questions, but I wouldn't want someone else to accidently read and get a spoiler they didn't want X__X I know, other people probably don't do things like read author's replies, but I do and I've had things like that happen. *guilty* Please don't use me as a source then. The last werewolf book I read was 'Blood and Chocolate' about four years ago. I'm basically BSing it to suit my needs ^^' Actually, I'm basing it on actual wolf society mixed with some [human] ethics and morals. The thing about werewolves being vampire slaves came from a special that was on the Discovery Channel around Halloween (when this fic was first conceived; even if it wasn't started for another month because of plotting). The collars were nicked from InuYasha ^^
Strife3: Geez, sorry about that. FF refused to let me fix it. It's (hopefully) better now.
Fyyrrose: I didn't until you said something, but it didn't seem to matter since FF didn't let me correct it! x-( Soujirou's alive isn't he? So stop whinning! The MUY needs to see what he's getting into. And I'm not doing another apology. The other one was perfectly fine. -__- I formally apologize for making the insinuation that Soujirou Seta is a freak or a kid. Better? You're already done with school. Oh, and G-ma's bribing me to get good grades. I need a DVD player and tv. That'd be nice. Yes, a job. But that means I'll have less time to write and less time to talk to your sorry self. *points to Fizure* Two to two and you didn't ask HH her opinion LMAO! And let me remind you of this 4:5 is NOT a good ratio!
Wistful-Eyes: Kenny got his moment of glory in Drifter. Moment, well 40k words! But I suppose he had to share with Battousai and a smidge of Aoshi. Sanosuke Sagara is my favorite character ^__^ For all that says anyway. He doesn't even have much of a role in here or in Drifter.
MissBehavin: They're like a two men wrecking crew ^^ They deserve a bit of ego and the 'my way or the highway' attitude. Megumi doesn't want to recognize the fact [in her mind] that she's not what she's always thought herself to be. It comes crashing down anyway. LMAO, Hiko has reasons. For him there has to be an ulterior motive. Characters are like that. The vindictive little beasts! Don't let them win ^__^