Disclaimer: There doesn't seem to be anything in my wallet...I guess I don't
own Rurouni Kenshin then. sigh
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A Love for One Hated
By: Mystic Song
Chapter 14: Approved Suitors
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It tore Kenshin's heart to leave Kaoru's side. She had been crying on his lap for the past hour, his hands running through her hair or caressing her back. After a while, her sobs had died to sniffles and soon her breathing became even and slow. She was fast asleep. Kenshin swept Kaoru up into his arms, laying her on her bed and drawing the covers up to her chin. He sweetly pressed his lips to her forehead and whispered his promise to return before steeling himself from the room.
He slowly descended the stairs, a solemn look found its way onto his face. He wondered what she would do being in the position she was in. She had to find a husband, and her husband would have to be one of the suitors that were in that hall this morning. He sighed and bowed his head: he wasn't one of them.
Kenshin reached the bottom step and looked up to find Lord Hiko striding towards him. "Baka deshi, follow me." He beckoned. He immediately strode down the hallway that led the various meeting halls, not taking a second glance back at Kenshin.
Kenshin stood stupefied in his spot for a minute for the abrupt greeting, but soon regained composure and followed his master down the hall and into a small meeting hall.
"Himura." Greeted an icily cold voice from an armchair at the far end of the room. The speaker had short black hair and eyes that were as cold as his voice. His voice was devoid of any emotion, his posture stoic.
"Shinomori." Kenshin acknowledged with a curt bow of his head. "I trust Makimachi-dono is well?"
Kenshin caught the fleeting emotion that crossed Aoshi's eyes at the mention of Misao's name. "Hai," he answered. "She is doing well."
Kenshin smirked and turned his attention to the second occupant of the room. A tall man with thinning black hair tightly tied into a stub of a ponytail, cigarette dangling carelessly from the corner of his mouth. "Saitou."
Saitou bowed his head. "Aah, the Battousai. We have been looking for you for the past hour. Hiko was just about to search you out in the tanuki's bedroom." Sarcasm dripped from every word.
Kenshin bowed his head, bangs shielding his eyes. He was annoyed with Saitou's underlying meanings. "We were just conversing about her switch of rooms."
Saitou was about to voice a retort when Hiko stated firmly, "I believe she wants to switch rooms so that she may be closer to you, is that correct, baka deshi?"
"Hai, Shishou." Kenshin replied humbly, his aggressiveness suddenly dying.
Hiko nodded arrogantly. "Though I do not know how long you will be here for once she switches. I am sending you to fight. Shinomori will be joining you too, as well as the rest of the Oniwabanshu."
"Except for Misao." Aoshi cut in. His eyes narrowed and his lips were pursed into a thin line.
"Of course." Hiko replied, a boyish glint in his eye. "That genki will stay in the guesthouse here, with the tanuki."
Kenshin could almost see the scowl that was about to form across Aoshi's lips. He obviously didn't approve of the girls' nicknames. Though Kenshin was thoroughly upset with another matter.
"You said I would be fighting. You know I don't kill." Kenshin said bitterly.
"Who said you were going to kill?" Hiko rejoined merrily. "Your mission is to more or less spy than to kill."
"Who am I spying on?" Kenshin asked curiously.
"Shishio Makato." Saitou spoke up, his voice deep and his words full of menace. "You will give way of their location and troops will come in to finish the work."
"We want to make this as quick as possible." Hiko commented. "I don't want to start a war while trying to teach a girl of diplomatic duties."
Kenshin gave a defeated sigh. "When do we leave?"
"I will be hosting a ball in two nights. You are to leave then." Hiko answered. Kenshin could not suppress the scowl that embellished his features. Hiko laughed in reply. "Why are you so sour?"
"I just do not approve of these suitors." Kenshin said, half in truth.
Saitou and Hiko exchanged knowing smirks. "No need to fear that. I'm sure you'll approve of one of them."
Kenshin looked up, his steely blue eyes inquiring for the answer.
"You'll find out tomorrow night at dinner. But for now, I suggest you start training. This won't be easy for you." Hiko suggested.
Kenshin took his leave with Aoshi as they left to train at the palace's dojo.
Just as Aoshi and Kenshin were about to leave the palace, Kenshin rushed upstairs to tell Kaoru where he would be. He knocked on the door and waited as a maid answered.
"Can I help you, Himura-sama?" The maid questioned civilly.
"Is Kaoru still asleep?" Kenshin asked.
The maid shook her head. "She went for a walk on the grounds, I believe, with Soujiro-san."
Kenshin felt his blood begin to boil at the mention of Kaoru with another man. He gave the maid a stiff bow before politely excusing himself to walk with Aoshi back out to the dojo.
"Is Kamiya-san still upstairs?" Aoshi questioned softly as they walked across the grounds in the afternoon light, Kenshin keeping a look out for Kaoru.
"Iie." Kenshin answered grumpily. "She's out walking with one of the suitors."
A bemused look crossed Aoshi's eyes, going unnoticed by the brooding red haired man to his right.
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Kaoru giggled graciously to one of Soujiro's comments. She had come to know him like a brother, calling him 'Sou-chan' instead of his full name. In return, Soujiro started referring to Kaoru as 'Kao-chan'.
Kaoru had already shared with Soujiro her passion with the art of the sword, and told him about the style she created to contradict her uncle's style. Perhaps that was a little too much to tell a person when she had just met him the day before, but they had been on wonderful speaking terms.
Soujiro had been a complete gentleman. Offering Kaoru his arm as they walked, adding small, polite comments as she rambled on about the Kamiya Kasshin Ryu, his smile never wavering. In response, Kaoru had asked Soujiro several questions, like what kingdom he was from and what he liked to do in his spare time.
Soujiro didn't talk as much as Kaoru did. Though his answers were concise and always cheerful, even if the subject he was talking about wasn't cheerful at all. He said that his kingdom was small and wasn't well known, avoiding telling her the exact name of the kingdom. He said that he also studied the art of swordsmanship, specializing specifically with speed.
As they continued walking across the grounds, Kaoru took note of the palace's dojo. She immediately had the urge to practice. She hadn't touched her swordsmanship skills since she hurt her ankle.
"Hey Sou-chan?" Kaoru asked as they neared the front of the palace once again. Soujiro turned his attention to her. "I think I'm gonna go inside for a bit. I will see you later tonight."
Soujiro nodded and walked Kaoru up to her room. "It was a delight to walk with you today, Kao-chan."
Kaoru smiled gratefully. "Yes, I had fun. I will see you later." With that, she watched Soujiro turn to leave as she shut the door behind her. She turned towards her dresser and pulled out a gi and hakama she kept from the Aoiya. After redressing herself, she stealthily left the castle, dodging every suitor along the way, and arrived at the dojo.
To her surprise, she wasn't the only one occupying the dojo. Two figures were rigorously sparring; one was a blur of black as the other was a blur of red. Their swords clashed loudly when the two blurs came in contact with each other, rebounding as fast as they met.
Kaoru skirted along the inside wall, entranced with their sword dance. Once she had had an eyeful of their moves, she started to make out the physical attributes of each fighter, surprised when she realized that these two men were none other than Kenshin and Aoshi. What was Aoshi doing at the palace anyway?
Kaoru reached for the bokken at her side as she brought it out, attempting to warm up at the mouth of the dojo. This way, if any of the attacks could go astray, she would have more space to react in. Kaoru started with several simple stretches for her calves and quads, moving up towards her lower back and finally, her arms. She would bend down and touch her toes, hooking the bokken underneath her feet as she pressed her palms onto the floor. While stretching her arms, she would have one hand grasp each side of the bokken from behind her back.
Following her warm up, she did several push-ups and crunches to get her muscles working, vaguely noticing the two men sparring behind her. Afterwards, she settled down into meditation. Taking deep breaths and letting her mind wander to pleasant thoughts as she felt her ki become calm. She pushed away her settings, emotions, and anything to everything that would conflict with this inner peace she had tapped onto.
Her eyes flicked open, revealing stunning cobalt orbs. Her senses became overly aware of everything around her, yet in a calm and orderly fashion. She noticed that the men who had been sparring earlier had settled down into a corner, just sitting and regaining their strength. Taking her chance to practice, she took hold of her bokken, flexing her hands onto the handle. Her feet padded softly as she took the center of the dojo, paying no head to anyone that may be around her. This was her time to focus on her training, and her training alone.
Kaoru started off with a few simple forward strikes. Nothing too complicated. She executed each strike with precision and grace. Next would be the basic steps in completing a form. A horizontal strike here, or a vertical block there. Each movement was crisp and concise. Then Kaoru moved onto complete forms where she fought imaginary opponents. Her feet were nimble as she executed her strikes across the dojo, her eyes racing around her as she could see her invented opponents charge at her, each one falling in defeat to the ground about her.
Kaoru paused her sequence of attacks when the outermost recesses of her mind detected clapping. Kaoru looked up, startled, registering everything around her completely now. She had fallen into her own world once again, and it was now time to return back to earth.
She walked over to the clapping men with a grace that was unknown to many, her bokken dangling harmlessly at her side. As she neared, a smile found its way to her lips as she looked on at Kenshin and Aoshi, both had approval shining in their eyes.
"That was very good." Aoshi complimented.
Kaoru gave Aoshi a bright smile and bowed her head. "Arigato, Aoshi." She turned her head towards Kenshin and caught him beaming at her.
"I am very impressed." Kenshin noted.
Kaoru sighed inwardly. Kenshin sat in front of her, one knee drawn to his chest as his other leg stretched out in front of him. His face held sheen from his sweat as stray crimson hair framed his face. His chiseled chest was overly exposed with the gaping gi that he wore and Kaoru had to conceal her blush.
Kenshin chuckled and outstretched his arms to Kaoru, beckoning her forward to him. Kaoru responded like a naïve child, falling into his arms and resting herself against his chest. Aoshi looked over at them, amused.
"Perhaps I will go retrieve some water for the three of us." Aoshi stated, exiting the dojo to fetch water from the well.
"Kaoru," Kenshin said softly, the words rumbling in his chest. Kaoru shivered. "There's something I think we need to talk about."
Kaoru looked up at Kenshin. His tone was so serious. Was something the matter? "What is it?"
Kenshin looked deeply into Kaoru's innocent eyes and didn't know if he could bring himself to say what he knew would break her heart. "I'm leaving." He paused, letting the words sink in. Kaoru immediately froze, the light in her eyes vanished. "Shishou is sending Aoshi and myself to do a variation of spy work on Shishio."
Kaoru's hands grasped onto Kenshin's gi. "When are you leaving?" Her voice cracked with emotion, though the tears that brimmed her eyes would not fall. Kaoru would not let them.
"The night of the ball." Kenshin answered. Kaoru bowed her head, her bangs covering her eyes. Kenshin watched her; shoulders slumped at bringing this upon her. He watched as tears dripped down her chin and fell onto his gi.
Kaoru felt large arms embrace her and pull her tightly to the warmth that was Kenshin's chest. Without warning, she flung her arms around Kenshin's torso, sobbing into his shoulder.
Aoshi chose that time to enter the dojo, three mugs in his hands. He paused before approaching the couple. Kaoru was curled up in Kenshin's lap, her body racked with sobs. Kenshin sat there helplessly, whispering soothing words into the girl's ear, rubbing her back comfortingly.
Aoshi bent down to Kaoru's side, urging the mug into her hands and ordering her to drink. Kaoru swallowed loudly before raising the mug to her lips, letting the water slip down her constricted throat. She gave Aoshi an appreciative smile, watching as the two older men sipped their drinks in silence.
They sat that way for hours to come. Nobody really saying anything. They enjoyed each other's company, watching the scenes around them play in front of their eyes. They didn't bother to go back inside until dinner.
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Kaoru spent most of the next day moping around in her room. She didn't bother to get dressed until lunch, when her maid insisted that it was improper for a lady to walk around in just their nightgown. Kaoru obeyed, all though rather reluctantly, and changed into a deep violet kimono and maroon obi. The kimono was rather large, and Kaoru didn't bother to tighten the obi, allowing the kimono to occasionally slip off her shoulder.
Kaoru would sit outside on her balcony, over looking the garden. She didn't want to be bothered. She turned away all visitors that came to her door, upset that Kenshin hadn't come by. She could hear him, though, at the dojo. The dojo was just around the corner of the palace, and Kaoru was very upset that she could not see it. Instead, she heard the distant clashing of swords and manly grunts that she would either perceive as Aoshi or Kenshin.
She watched the sunset, dipping below the distant hills and casting an orange-ish glow to the sky. Kaoru lay face down on the balcony, head resting upon her arms as her ebony hair spilled about her back. She hadn't bothered tying it up that morning.
Loud footsteps could be heard ascending the steps outside her door, stomping their way down Kaoru's hallway. Kaoru only noticed this vaguely until a thunderous pounding could be heard against Kaoru's bedroom door.
Kaoru remained on the floor, azure orbs lazily disappearing behind closed eyelids. One of the maids cast Kaoru a discontented expression before pulling the door wide open. She gave a small bow to the man behind the door. "My apologies, Seijuro-sama, but Kaoru-san does not wish to see anybody."
Hiko snorted and made his way into the room. "To hell with that!" He muttered, irritated. He stepped out onto the balcony and glared down at Kaoru. "This is not the way a stewardess behaves!"
Kaoru slowly sat up, her body resting upon folded legs. "I do not wish to become stewardess." She said evenly.
Hiko's eyes flared. "It is your birth right to be stewardess, there is no denying it. Dinner is about to be served, and you must be present for when I announce the ten suitors that you may choose from to marry."
Kaoru scoffed. "I do not wish to marry any of those suitors."
Hiko looked at Kaoru questioningly. "We'll see. My baka deshi should be present there as well, and I'm sure he would not approve of seeing you looking like that."
Kaoru bit her lip. If Kenshin was going to be there, than she was going to be there. She turned towards her vanity table, beckoning a maid to help her with her hair.
Hiko gave Kaoru an arrogant smirk before striding out of Kaoru's room and returning downstairs.
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Kaoru arrived at dinner, her obi tied elegantly and tightly. Her hair was neatly braided into an chic knot at the back of her head. Her make up was done lightly, only accenting those features such as her eyes and her lips. Kaoru was displeased to find that she was the last to enter the dining hall, as all eyes were on her as she walked towards the head of the table by Hiko's side.
There was a vacant seat between Kenshin and Hiko that Kaoru took gratefully. Her eyes lowered to the table in respect for Hiko, skimming across the neat silverware that was set before her.
Hiko stood up abruptly, clapping his hands twice. "Let dinner be served!" He announced before sitting back down on his chair, eyes eagerly awaiting the many servants that brought in their feast.
Kenshin looked at Kaoru curiously. He let his hand rest on Kaoru's lap, atop of her folded hands. He gave them a gentle squeeze, causing Kaoru's eyes to dart up and meet his. He gave her a comforting smile, telling her that everything would be all right. Kaoru's eyes remained doubtful, but she didn't protest. Instead, she clutched onto Kenshin's hands for the remainder of dinner.
Meanwhile, a few chairs down, Soujiro looked suspiciously at Kenshin and Kaoru. His aquamarine eyes shone conspicuously beneath his dark bangs, eyeing the pair closely. It appeared as if Kaoru was always with Kenshin, that they would hardly be separated. But he wouldn't let that faze him. Soujiro inclined his head, that eerie smile still plastered across his face. No, he would find a way.
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Hiko stood up, demanding the attention of all the men at the table. The hall fell still in a matter of seconds, not even the clatter of silverware could be heard. Hiko approved of the silence and began to speak. "I have observed every one of your behaviors." Hiko began; making sure that his gaze would rest on every man seated at the table, causing most of them to squirm uncomfortably. "The ten names that I am about to read to you are the ten suitors that I believe can run this country. The rest of you will return to your kingdoms. The ten men that I will announce have hopefully met with Kamiya-san by now. If you haven't, you have only one day to woo her. Tomorrow night there will be a ball, and she will choose who will be the next ruler of this kingdom."
Kaoru's face was downfallen, her lips forming a delicate frown. Though she remained unspoken, subjecting to the soothing caress of Kenshin's fingertips upon her clenched hands.
Hiko cleared his throat, his gaze sweeping across the hall. Kaoru wanted to tune out Hiko's voice, not wanting to hear the meaningless names that Hiko would announce. She dreaded knowing that one of them would have to be her husband.
Kaoru managed to do such, her eyes staring blankly in front of her, only registering Kenshin's touch and the deep rumbling of Hiko's voice as hollow names fell from his lips.
Kenshin looked disapprovingly at Kaoru, squeezing her hand hard. Kaoru's face jerked up, hearing the last two names being announced. "...Seta Soujiro, and Himura Kenshin."
Hiko sat down with a finality that still had the hall hushed. He looked over at Kaoru and found her mouth to be gaping.
Kenshin seemed to be shocked by Hiko's words as well. He gave his master a grateful smile before releasing a sigh that he didn't know he was holding.
Hiko returned his unwavering gaze to the table. "You are all dismissed."
Immediately the scraping of chairs could be heard as the many men departed for their kingdom or returned to their rooms, preparing for the next day.
Kaoru, Kenshin, and Aoshi remained sitting alongside Hiko. "That was very generous of you, Shishou, that it was." Kenshin said modestly.
Hiko chuckled. "Having the stubborn stewardess that I do makes matters more difficult than they should be." He gave the group a sly smile before turning his back to them. "It is late, and there is a ball to plan in the morning." With that, he left.
Kaoru looked up hopefully at Kenshin. "Does that mean you don't have to go tomorrow?"
Aoshi shook his head. "Orders are orders, and no ball is going to change that."
Kaoru frowned. "But promise me you will stay for some of the ball. I don't know how I will be able to deal with all those men."
Kenshin chuckled. "Don't worry, I will make an appearance. After all, I am one of your suitors."
Kaoru giggled and allowed Kenshin to escort her up to her room.
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A/N: Haha! Would you look at that!! Another chapter up in like, 3 days!! I think I will be able to meet my goal. Hopefully this chapter doesn't seem rushed. Please tell me if it does! Thanks to everyone who reviewed.
Some notes:
Kik-ting – I can't answer that...yet, but you'll find out in the next chapter!
Victoria – Is my plot that obvious? Or is it that you're psychic?? Lol.
Hiei's.punk.rocker.girl – No, this story WILL NOT become a lemon. Hopefully that kiss wasn't a little too limey. I wanna keep this simple and sweet. And no, lol, I will not discontinue this story. I'm too into it to discontinue it. It's just that I want to get this done before I go on my cruise. (
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A Love for One Hated
By: Mystic Song
Chapter 14: Approved Suitors
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It tore Kenshin's heart to leave Kaoru's side. She had been crying on his lap for the past hour, his hands running through her hair or caressing her back. After a while, her sobs had died to sniffles and soon her breathing became even and slow. She was fast asleep. Kenshin swept Kaoru up into his arms, laying her on her bed and drawing the covers up to her chin. He sweetly pressed his lips to her forehead and whispered his promise to return before steeling himself from the room.
He slowly descended the stairs, a solemn look found its way onto his face. He wondered what she would do being in the position she was in. She had to find a husband, and her husband would have to be one of the suitors that were in that hall this morning. He sighed and bowed his head: he wasn't one of them.
Kenshin reached the bottom step and looked up to find Lord Hiko striding towards him. "Baka deshi, follow me." He beckoned. He immediately strode down the hallway that led the various meeting halls, not taking a second glance back at Kenshin.
Kenshin stood stupefied in his spot for a minute for the abrupt greeting, but soon regained composure and followed his master down the hall and into a small meeting hall.
"Himura." Greeted an icily cold voice from an armchair at the far end of the room. The speaker had short black hair and eyes that were as cold as his voice. His voice was devoid of any emotion, his posture stoic.
"Shinomori." Kenshin acknowledged with a curt bow of his head. "I trust Makimachi-dono is well?"
Kenshin caught the fleeting emotion that crossed Aoshi's eyes at the mention of Misao's name. "Hai," he answered. "She is doing well."
Kenshin smirked and turned his attention to the second occupant of the room. A tall man with thinning black hair tightly tied into a stub of a ponytail, cigarette dangling carelessly from the corner of his mouth. "Saitou."
Saitou bowed his head. "Aah, the Battousai. We have been looking for you for the past hour. Hiko was just about to search you out in the tanuki's bedroom." Sarcasm dripped from every word.
Kenshin bowed his head, bangs shielding his eyes. He was annoyed with Saitou's underlying meanings. "We were just conversing about her switch of rooms."
Saitou was about to voice a retort when Hiko stated firmly, "I believe she wants to switch rooms so that she may be closer to you, is that correct, baka deshi?"
"Hai, Shishou." Kenshin replied humbly, his aggressiveness suddenly dying.
Hiko nodded arrogantly. "Though I do not know how long you will be here for once she switches. I am sending you to fight. Shinomori will be joining you too, as well as the rest of the Oniwabanshu."
"Except for Misao." Aoshi cut in. His eyes narrowed and his lips were pursed into a thin line.
"Of course." Hiko replied, a boyish glint in his eye. "That genki will stay in the guesthouse here, with the tanuki."
Kenshin could almost see the scowl that was about to form across Aoshi's lips. He obviously didn't approve of the girls' nicknames. Though Kenshin was thoroughly upset with another matter.
"You said I would be fighting. You know I don't kill." Kenshin said bitterly.
"Who said you were going to kill?" Hiko rejoined merrily. "Your mission is to more or less spy than to kill."
"Who am I spying on?" Kenshin asked curiously.
"Shishio Makato." Saitou spoke up, his voice deep and his words full of menace. "You will give way of their location and troops will come in to finish the work."
"We want to make this as quick as possible." Hiko commented. "I don't want to start a war while trying to teach a girl of diplomatic duties."
Kenshin gave a defeated sigh. "When do we leave?"
"I will be hosting a ball in two nights. You are to leave then." Hiko answered. Kenshin could not suppress the scowl that embellished his features. Hiko laughed in reply. "Why are you so sour?"
"I just do not approve of these suitors." Kenshin said, half in truth.
Saitou and Hiko exchanged knowing smirks. "No need to fear that. I'm sure you'll approve of one of them."
Kenshin looked up, his steely blue eyes inquiring for the answer.
"You'll find out tomorrow night at dinner. But for now, I suggest you start training. This won't be easy for you." Hiko suggested.
Kenshin took his leave with Aoshi as they left to train at the palace's dojo.
Just as Aoshi and Kenshin were about to leave the palace, Kenshin rushed upstairs to tell Kaoru where he would be. He knocked on the door and waited as a maid answered.
"Can I help you, Himura-sama?" The maid questioned civilly.
"Is Kaoru still asleep?" Kenshin asked.
The maid shook her head. "She went for a walk on the grounds, I believe, with Soujiro-san."
Kenshin felt his blood begin to boil at the mention of Kaoru with another man. He gave the maid a stiff bow before politely excusing himself to walk with Aoshi back out to the dojo.
"Is Kamiya-san still upstairs?" Aoshi questioned softly as they walked across the grounds in the afternoon light, Kenshin keeping a look out for Kaoru.
"Iie." Kenshin answered grumpily. "She's out walking with one of the suitors."
A bemused look crossed Aoshi's eyes, going unnoticed by the brooding red haired man to his right.
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Kaoru giggled graciously to one of Soujiro's comments. She had come to know him like a brother, calling him 'Sou-chan' instead of his full name. In return, Soujiro started referring to Kaoru as 'Kao-chan'.
Kaoru had already shared with Soujiro her passion with the art of the sword, and told him about the style she created to contradict her uncle's style. Perhaps that was a little too much to tell a person when she had just met him the day before, but they had been on wonderful speaking terms.
Soujiro had been a complete gentleman. Offering Kaoru his arm as they walked, adding small, polite comments as she rambled on about the Kamiya Kasshin Ryu, his smile never wavering. In response, Kaoru had asked Soujiro several questions, like what kingdom he was from and what he liked to do in his spare time.
Soujiro didn't talk as much as Kaoru did. Though his answers were concise and always cheerful, even if the subject he was talking about wasn't cheerful at all. He said that his kingdom was small and wasn't well known, avoiding telling her the exact name of the kingdom. He said that he also studied the art of swordsmanship, specializing specifically with speed.
As they continued walking across the grounds, Kaoru took note of the palace's dojo. She immediately had the urge to practice. She hadn't touched her swordsmanship skills since she hurt her ankle.
"Hey Sou-chan?" Kaoru asked as they neared the front of the palace once again. Soujiro turned his attention to her. "I think I'm gonna go inside for a bit. I will see you later tonight."
Soujiro nodded and walked Kaoru up to her room. "It was a delight to walk with you today, Kao-chan."
Kaoru smiled gratefully. "Yes, I had fun. I will see you later." With that, she watched Soujiro turn to leave as she shut the door behind her. She turned towards her dresser and pulled out a gi and hakama she kept from the Aoiya. After redressing herself, she stealthily left the castle, dodging every suitor along the way, and arrived at the dojo.
To her surprise, she wasn't the only one occupying the dojo. Two figures were rigorously sparring; one was a blur of black as the other was a blur of red. Their swords clashed loudly when the two blurs came in contact with each other, rebounding as fast as they met.
Kaoru skirted along the inside wall, entranced with their sword dance. Once she had had an eyeful of their moves, she started to make out the physical attributes of each fighter, surprised when she realized that these two men were none other than Kenshin and Aoshi. What was Aoshi doing at the palace anyway?
Kaoru reached for the bokken at her side as she brought it out, attempting to warm up at the mouth of the dojo. This way, if any of the attacks could go astray, she would have more space to react in. Kaoru started with several simple stretches for her calves and quads, moving up towards her lower back and finally, her arms. She would bend down and touch her toes, hooking the bokken underneath her feet as she pressed her palms onto the floor. While stretching her arms, she would have one hand grasp each side of the bokken from behind her back.
Following her warm up, she did several push-ups and crunches to get her muscles working, vaguely noticing the two men sparring behind her. Afterwards, she settled down into meditation. Taking deep breaths and letting her mind wander to pleasant thoughts as she felt her ki become calm. She pushed away her settings, emotions, and anything to everything that would conflict with this inner peace she had tapped onto.
Her eyes flicked open, revealing stunning cobalt orbs. Her senses became overly aware of everything around her, yet in a calm and orderly fashion. She noticed that the men who had been sparring earlier had settled down into a corner, just sitting and regaining their strength. Taking her chance to practice, she took hold of her bokken, flexing her hands onto the handle. Her feet padded softly as she took the center of the dojo, paying no head to anyone that may be around her. This was her time to focus on her training, and her training alone.
Kaoru started off with a few simple forward strikes. Nothing too complicated. She executed each strike with precision and grace. Next would be the basic steps in completing a form. A horizontal strike here, or a vertical block there. Each movement was crisp and concise. Then Kaoru moved onto complete forms where she fought imaginary opponents. Her feet were nimble as she executed her strikes across the dojo, her eyes racing around her as she could see her invented opponents charge at her, each one falling in defeat to the ground about her.
Kaoru paused her sequence of attacks when the outermost recesses of her mind detected clapping. Kaoru looked up, startled, registering everything around her completely now. She had fallen into her own world once again, and it was now time to return back to earth.
She walked over to the clapping men with a grace that was unknown to many, her bokken dangling harmlessly at her side. As she neared, a smile found its way to her lips as she looked on at Kenshin and Aoshi, both had approval shining in their eyes.
"That was very good." Aoshi complimented.
Kaoru gave Aoshi a bright smile and bowed her head. "Arigato, Aoshi." She turned her head towards Kenshin and caught him beaming at her.
"I am very impressed." Kenshin noted.
Kaoru sighed inwardly. Kenshin sat in front of her, one knee drawn to his chest as his other leg stretched out in front of him. His face held sheen from his sweat as stray crimson hair framed his face. His chiseled chest was overly exposed with the gaping gi that he wore and Kaoru had to conceal her blush.
Kenshin chuckled and outstretched his arms to Kaoru, beckoning her forward to him. Kaoru responded like a naïve child, falling into his arms and resting herself against his chest. Aoshi looked over at them, amused.
"Perhaps I will go retrieve some water for the three of us." Aoshi stated, exiting the dojo to fetch water from the well.
"Kaoru," Kenshin said softly, the words rumbling in his chest. Kaoru shivered. "There's something I think we need to talk about."
Kaoru looked up at Kenshin. His tone was so serious. Was something the matter? "What is it?"
Kenshin looked deeply into Kaoru's innocent eyes and didn't know if he could bring himself to say what he knew would break her heart. "I'm leaving." He paused, letting the words sink in. Kaoru immediately froze, the light in her eyes vanished. "Shishou is sending Aoshi and myself to do a variation of spy work on Shishio."
Kaoru's hands grasped onto Kenshin's gi. "When are you leaving?" Her voice cracked with emotion, though the tears that brimmed her eyes would not fall. Kaoru would not let them.
"The night of the ball." Kenshin answered. Kaoru bowed her head, her bangs covering her eyes. Kenshin watched her; shoulders slumped at bringing this upon her. He watched as tears dripped down her chin and fell onto his gi.
Kaoru felt large arms embrace her and pull her tightly to the warmth that was Kenshin's chest. Without warning, she flung her arms around Kenshin's torso, sobbing into his shoulder.
Aoshi chose that time to enter the dojo, three mugs in his hands. He paused before approaching the couple. Kaoru was curled up in Kenshin's lap, her body racked with sobs. Kenshin sat there helplessly, whispering soothing words into the girl's ear, rubbing her back comfortingly.
Aoshi bent down to Kaoru's side, urging the mug into her hands and ordering her to drink. Kaoru swallowed loudly before raising the mug to her lips, letting the water slip down her constricted throat. She gave Aoshi an appreciative smile, watching as the two older men sipped their drinks in silence.
They sat that way for hours to come. Nobody really saying anything. They enjoyed each other's company, watching the scenes around them play in front of their eyes. They didn't bother to go back inside until dinner.
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Kaoru spent most of the next day moping around in her room. She didn't bother to get dressed until lunch, when her maid insisted that it was improper for a lady to walk around in just their nightgown. Kaoru obeyed, all though rather reluctantly, and changed into a deep violet kimono and maroon obi. The kimono was rather large, and Kaoru didn't bother to tighten the obi, allowing the kimono to occasionally slip off her shoulder.
Kaoru would sit outside on her balcony, over looking the garden. She didn't want to be bothered. She turned away all visitors that came to her door, upset that Kenshin hadn't come by. She could hear him, though, at the dojo. The dojo was just around the corner of the palace, and Kaoru was very upset that she could not see it. Instead, she heard the distant clashing of swords and manly grunts that she would either perceive as Aoshi or Kenshin.
She watched the sunset, dipping below the distant hills and casting an orange-ish glow to the sky. Kaoru lay face down on the balcony, head resting upon her arms as her ebony hair spilled about her back. She hadn't bothered tying it up that morning.
Loud footsteps could be heard ascending the steps outside her door, stomping their way down Kaoru's hallway. Kaoru only noticed this vaguely until a thunderous pounding could be heard against Kaoru's bedroom door.
Kaoru remained on the floor, azure orbs lazily disappearing behind closed eyelids. One of the maids cast Kaoru a discontented expression before pulling the door wide open. She gave a small bow to the man behind the door. "My apologies, Seijuro-sama, but Kaoru-san does not wish to see anybody."
Hiko snorted and made his way into the room. "To hell with that!" He muttered, irritated. He stepped out onto the balcony and glared down at Kaoru. "This is not the way a stewardess behaves!"
Kaoru slowly sat up, her body resting upon folded legs. "I do not wish to become stewardess." She said evenly.
Hiko's eyes flared. "It is your birth right to be stewardess, there is no denying it. Dinner is about to be served, and you must be present for when I announce the ten suitors that you may choose from to marry."
Kaoru scoffed. "I do not wish to marry any of those suitors."
Hiko looked at Kaoru questioningly. "We'll see. My baka deshi should be present there as well, and I'm sure he would not approve of seeing you looking like that."
Kaoru bit her lip. If Kenshin was going to be there, than she was going to be there. She turned towards her vanity table, beckoning a maid to help her with her hair.
Hiko gave Kaoru an arrogant smirk before striding out of Kaoru's room and returning downstairs.
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Kaoru arrived at dinner, her obi tied elegantly and tightly. Her hair was neatly braided into an chic knot at the back of her head. Her make up was done lightly, only accenting those features such as her eyes and her lips. Kaoru was displeased to find that she was the last to enter the dining hall, as all eyes were on her as she walked towards the head of the table by Hiko's side.
There was a vacant seat between Kenshin and Hiko that Kaoru took gratefully. Her eyes lowered to the table in respect for Hiko, skimming across the neat silverware that was set before her.
Hiko stood up abruptly, clapping his hands twice. "Let dinner be served!" He announced before sitting back down on his chair, eyes eagerly awaiting the many servants that brought in their feast.
Kenshin looked at Kaoru curiously. He let his hand rest on Kaoru's lap, atop of her folded hands. He gave them a gentle squeeze, causing Kaoru's eyes to dart up and meet his. He gave her a comforting smile, telling her that everything would be all right. Kaoru's eyes remained doubtful, but she didn't protest. Instead, she clutched onto Kenshin's hands for the remainder of dinner.
Meanwhile, a few chairs down, Soujiro looked suspiciously at Kenshin and Kaoru. His aquamarine eyes shone conspicuously beneath his dark bangs, eyeing the pair closely. It appeared as if Kaoru was always with Kenshin, that they would hardly be separated. But he wouldn't let that faze him. Soujiro inclined his head, that eerie smile still plastered across his face. No, he would find a way.
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Hiko stood up, demanding the attention of all the men at the table. The hall fell still in a matter of seconds, not even the clatter of silverware could be heard. Hiko approved of the silence and began to speak. "I have observed every one of your behaviors." Hiko began; making sure that his gaze would rest on every man seated at the table, causing most of them to squirm uncomfortably. "The ten names that I am about to read to you are the ten suitors that I believe can run this country. The rest of you will return to your kingdoms. The ten men that I will announce have hopefully met with Kamiya-san by now. If you haven't, you have only one day to woo her. Tomorrow night there will be a ball, and she will choose who will be the next ruler of this kingdom."
Kaoru's face was downfallen, her lips forming a delicate frown. Though she remained unspoken, subjecting to the soothing caress of Kenshin's fingertips upon her clenched hands.
Hiko cleared his throat, his gaze sweeping across the hall. Kaoru wanted to tune out Hiko's voice, not wanting to hear the meaningless names that Hiko would announce. She dreaded knowing that one of them would have to be her husband.
Kaoru managed to do such, her eyes staring blankly in front of her, only registering Kenshin's touch and the deep rumbling of Hiko's voice as hollow names fell from his lips.
Kenshin looked disapprovingly at Kaoru, squeezing her hand hard. Kaoru's face jerked up, hearing the last two names being announced. "...Seta Soujiro, and Himura Kenshin."
Hiko sat down with a finality that still had the hall hushed. He looked over at Kaoru and found her mouth to be gaping.
Kenshin seemed to be shocked by Hiko's words as well. He gave his master a grateful smile before releasing a sigh that he didn't know he was holding.
Hiko returned his unwavering gaze to the table. "You are all dismissed."
Immediately the scraping of chairs could be heard as the many men departed for their kingdom or returned to their rooms, preparing for the next day.
Kaoru, Kenshin, and Aoshi remained sitting alongside Hiko. "That was very generous of you, Shishou, that it was." Kenshin said modestly.
Hiko chuckled. "Having the stubborn stewardess that I do makes matters more difficult than they should be." He gave the group a sly smile before turning his back to them. "It is late, and there is a ball to plan in the morning." With that, he left.
Kaoru looked up hopefully at Kenshin. "Does that mean you don't have to go tomorrow?"
Aoshi shook his head. "Orders are orders, and no ball is going to change that."
Kaoru frowned. "But promise me you will stay for some of the ball. I don't know how I will be able to deal with all those men."
Kenshin chuckled. "Don't worry, I will make an appearance. After all, I am one of your suitors."
Kaoru giggled and allowed Kenshin to escort her up to her room.
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A/N: Haha! Would you look at that!! Another chapter up in like, 3 days!! I think I will be able to meet my goal. Hopefully this chapter doesn't seem rushed. Please tell me if it does! Thanks to everyone who reviewed.
Some notes:
Kik-ting – I can't answer that...yet, but you'll find out in the next chapter!
Victoria – Is my plot that obvious? Or is it that you're psychic?? Lol.
Hiei's.punk.rocker.girl – No, this story WILL NOT become a lemon. Hopefully that kiss wasn't a little too limey. I wanna keep this simple and sweet. And no, lol, I will not discontinue this story. I'm too into it to discontinue it. It's just that I want to get this done before I go on my cruise. (