A/N: This fic was originally part of a response to a TFME forum topic about Japanese vending machines (called Jidouhanbaiki), which are known for the wide variety of items they contain. This fic is also certifiable proof that I am an incurable drama queen. Oh, and I know they wouldn't have vending machines in the Meiji era.

Need I say it? The day I make a whole lot more than $6.75/hr I will buy RK. Until then, don't sue me.

Wacky Jidouhanbaiki

As they walked through the market, Kenshin, Sano and Yahiko saw a strange item on display.

"Hey Kenshin!" Yahiko called, "What do you think that thing is?"

Kenshin stopped to stare at the five-foot-by-three-foot rectangular black object. "Oro...this one does not know."

Seeing their stares, an oily haired Japanese man in a pinstriped western suit walked up, wearing an artificial smile. "Ah, I see you've spotted my latest business scheme. It's based on a western invention. How do you like it?"

Sano glared at the machine and made a fist, cracking his knuckles. "If it's a western invention it must be evil. What is that thing anyway?"

The salesman shrank back from Sano's threatening look. "I-it's a jidouhanbaiki, --a-also called a vending machine."

Now, now Sano," Kenshin said, putting an arm between them, "it does not appear dangerous." To the salesman he asked, "Tell me, what is this object's function?"

The salesman's smile suddenly returned with Kenshin's reassurance and at the prospect of a sale. Bowing slightly, he walked over to machine and said in a smooth practiced voice, "Why gentleman, this machine will suit all your needs! No longer will you be required to barter and risk being cheated for your merchandise! Just pop in a coin and the machine will dispense whatever you wish from a wide variety of items! So tell me...what would you like to purchase first?"

"Is it like magic?" Yahiko asked.

"Practically." the salesman replied.

Yahiko grinned, "You first Kenshin, what do you want?"

Kenshin looked confused. "Oro...there is nothing."

"Oh come on Kenshin, you've got to want something!" Yahiko insisted, tugging his arm.

Kenshin stared into space a moment before hanging his head. "Redemption." he murmured.

Sano and Yahiko became suddenly very quiet and serious, then looked expectantly at the salesman.

Looking embarrassed, he answered, "Look, I'm sorry, we don't have it." He backed away slightly, seeming to shrink.

Without lifting his head Kenshin answered enigmatically, "No, you wouldn't would you?"

"Well," Sano asked, "do you at least have something to make me stronger?"

The salesman seemed to shrink even further. "No."

Yahiko looked disappointed for a moment then perked up. "Do you have any sakabatous?"

"No."

"So what do you have there anyway?" Sano asked.

The red-faced salesman backed up until he was against the machine. "Uh...unusual drinks?" He asked nervously, trying to smile.

"Come on," Sano said, dragging the back of his friends gis, "Jou-chan says we need miso."

"But I have that!" The salesman yelled at their backs as they walked off.

Sighing, he slumped down against the side of the machine. "Hn," the salesman thought, "maybe this wasn't such a good business idea after all..."

....