Disclaimer: Although I may be responsible for the situations these
characters get into, the characters themselves are not mine.
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A Love for One Hated
By: Mystic Song
Chapter 15 Enter the Fray
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Kaoru grinned broadly as she stepped out of bed, arms stretched out above her as she gave a loud yawn. There was a new bounce in her step as Kaoru headed towards the bathroom, a new kimono slung over her shoulder and a fluffy towel around her neck.
She stepped inside the bathroom, throwing all or her garments on the floor, including those she was wearing, and filled the tub with hot water. After watching the tub fill to the brim, she anxiously stepped inside, sinking to the bottom with a grateful sigh.
Kaoru languorously washed herself while watching the water slide across her skin, humming a soft song as she went. Fantasies of the ball that would take place that night ran through her head. It would be a fairytale, with Kenshin dancing by her side. There was no need for any of the other suitors; she already knew that she would pick Kenshin to be her husband.
Kaoru slipped out of the tub, quickly drying herself off and hastily tied the pale pink obi around her lavender kimono. She reached for a pink ribbon by the washtub and pulled back her damp ebony hair into a high ponytail. Without taking a second glance at the mirror, she hopped out of the bathroom and stepped out of her room.
A soft gasp was emitted from her rose petal lips and blushing face that was still flushed from the bath. Eight men were crowded outside her room, each holding a present of either silk, candy, or flowers in their hands. All of their faces were eager, anticipating which one of the presents fancied her.
It was then that Soujiro entered the hall, that steadfast smile still upon his face. "Shall we?" He asked politely, holding out an arm for Kaoru to take.
Kaoru glanced at the men around her and gave a grateful smile. "Your kindness does me too much justice. There is no need for presents." She addressed the men in front of her before walking with Soujiro down into the dining hall, leaving the men behind her questioning in her wake.
As expected, Kenshin was not present at breakfast. Kaoru assumed that he was at the dojo, training for that night. She mentally scolded Kenshin; didn't he know that he needed his strength? It shouldn't be expended that day.
Kaoru paid no more heed to her thoughts as the food was brought out, heaping plates of pancakes and eggs along with sausage and bacon. Her mouth was watering at the amount of food presented, and she immediately helped herself to a large quantity of each plate.
After breakfast, the suitors in the entrance hall once again hounded Kaoru. Kaoru looked at the men pitifully. It would do them impartiality to give each of them at least some attention. So Kaoru beckoned the men into one of the palace's many sitting rooms and chatted politely amongst the men. To her displeasure, most of the questions asked regarded her and her interests. That way she knew nothing of the men in front of her besides their names and their heritage.
'Well at least that's something...' Kaoru reflected ruefully.
Their conversation ended just a couple of hours before lunch and Kaoru quickly excused herself to find Kenshin. Though before she could make it to the dojo, a maid intercepted her and told her that she should be readying herself for the ball.
"I have at least four more hours until the ball starts!" Kaoru protested.
The maid smiled sweetly at Kaoru's naiveté and shook her head courteously. "Then that's just enough time to have you fitted into your dress and to have your makeup and hair done."
Kaoru grimaced at the thought of ten maids bustling around her, each attempting a different task: whether one being to powder her face and the other to fit her dress. It made her feel like nothing more than a doll, not being able to do anything for herself. Though the maid persisted on Kaoru returning to her room. In the end, Kaoru found that the maid was tightly gripping her wrists in fear that she may bolt as she was dragged up the steps.
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It was around noon, and Kenshin figured that the ball would begin in about two hours. He wiped the sweat from his brow with the back of his hand, returning his sakabatou to its sheath. He trudged tiredly from the dojo to the guesthouse; nodding civilly to the servants he passed. He retreated into his bathroom, preparing a hot bath for himself.
After the bath was prepared, Kenshin slipped in, feeling his muscles contract and eventually relax in the steaming water. He sat there for sometime, recollecting his nerves as he thought of an extravagant ball that would be held that evening, and the rigorous battle that would be sure to follow that night.
With a defeated sigh, Kenshin went about to washing his body. His muscles slightly sore but rested enough. He stood up, water trailing down his form as he stepped out of the tub. Grabbing a nearby towel he padded himself dry before wringing out his hair. He then wandered around his room with just a towel wrapped tightly around his waist, determining what to wear for that evening. He suited for a pair of light baggy slacks that he found he could easily maneuver in, and a magenta tunic. Without further ado, he drew his hair back into a loose ponytail at the base of his neck, and placed extra sets of clothing into a nearby trunk.
A servant was sent to retrieve Aoshi once Kenshin finished packing, his trunk being lugged down the steps behind him as he stepped out in front of the guesthouse. A carriage was awaiting him, inside seated the ever prompt Aoshi. He held the door open for his friend and companion.
"We will take this to the Aoiya. Okina will then take this carriage to our hideout. The rest will follow him shortly on horseback. We will remain at the ball only until dark, and then we must leave." Aoshi informed Kenshin bluntly.
Kenshin nodded in compliance and rode with Aoshi to the Aoiya. There Kenshin confronted the rest of the Oniwabanshu. Okon and Omasu were busying with a tedious Yahiko, beckoning for him to hurry outfront. Yahiko waved them off carelessly before slipping by Kenshin's side, looking up at the older man warily. Kenshin looked down at Yahiko fondly before turning to help the remainder of the Oniwabanshu pack their trunks into the carriage.
Aoshi ambled to the side of the Aoiya, returning with two horses for Kenshin and him to ride on for their trip back up to the palace. Kenshin mounted with Yahiko following suit, sitting tentatively behind Kenshin, holding onto his waist loosely. Aoshi waited patiently for Misao to come out, but she didn't. Aoshi sighed and exchanged a wearisome glance at Okina. Okina gave Aoshi a sly smile before entering the house, exiting this time with a disgruntled Misao.
Her mouth was pursed shut in anger, mounting the horse a little too forcefully for the horse's liking as it stomped heavily on the ground. The look that Misao gave Aoshi was that of betrayal. Kenshin could see plainly that they had argued over her participation in the fight many times. Though in the end, Aoshi had obviously won.
By the time Kenshin had returned to the guesthouse with Misao and Yahiko safely inside, it was time for him to attend the ball. He quickly dismissed himself from the bickering Misao before heading up towards the palace.
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Kaoru examined herself subconsciously in the vanity mirror. Never had she worn a dress so elegant. It was a silk kimono with pink sakura petals floating towards the hem of the skirt. The obi was also of a pale pink, tied firmly around her waist. It was a kimono of the utmost simplicity, but at the greatest degree of elegance as well. Her hair was done in a similar manner. Her hair was twisted back into a taut bun as several pieces of ebony locks framed her face. Kaoru's face was painted the traditional white, the rouge the same color as her obi.
Kaoru looked at herself and thought it was overdone. She was appearing as someone she was not. Though she was often told she was the stewardess now. Therefore she had to look and act like one. Kaoru detested the act greatly, but Hiko had been more than generous to her by allowing her to marry Kenshin. This was the least she could do in return.
'Speak of the devil,' Kaoru thought as a strident knock was heard against Kaoru's door and Hiko Seijuro stepped inside. The maids quickly scattered from Kaoru and gave their lord a deep bow. Kaoru followed suit, though not daring to bend far in fear that she may ruin her dress or hair.
Hiko gave her an arrogant smirk and beckoned Kaoru forward with the wave of his hand. "Finally," he sniffed, "You look like a stewardess."
Kaoru wasn't sure if she should consider that as a compliment or an insult. She decided to remain silent.
Hiko looked at her with amusement as he led her down the steps and into the entrance hall. The ballroom was held just beyond the dining hall, nearby the kitchens. He pushed open the wide oak doors and the overbearing scent of perfume and wine sent Kaoru's senses reeling. As they entered, the guests began to applaud loudly. Hiko offered the room a smile, as did Kaoru.
They entered the fray, striding towards the middle of the ballroom where they separated. "Don't forget to mingle." Hiko reminded Kaoru haughtily as he stalked off to a group of elderly nobles in the far corner.
Kaoru was tempted to scrunch her nose in distaste, though stopped in fear of ruining her makeup. Instead, a small tap was felt on her shoulder, and she turned to face a stunning red head wearing a pink tunic.
"May I have this dance?" Kenshin asked humbly.
Kaoru gave him a grateful smile. "Of course." She held out her hand for Kenshin to take, leading her towards the other dancing couples.
"You look stunning tonight." Kenshin noted, a boyish grin spreading across his face.
Kaoru giggled. "As do you. That pink tunic suits you well."
Kenshin pouted. "I would like to think it's magenta."
Kaoru bowed her head to keep herself from laughing in what Hiko would claim to be an unlady-like manner. "Whatever you say, Kenshin."
Kenshin simply grinned, resting one hand on her hip while taking Kaoru's free hand with his. He skirted about the dance floor, gracefully dipping and twirling Kaoru as they went. Kaoru beamed at Kenshin all the while, truly enjoying herself.
An hour had passed in similar conduct, Kenshin hogging Kaoru all to himself. The rest of the suitors glanced worriedly at the stewardess, wondering how they could compare themselves to the dashing red head she was so indulged with. Though they didn't have to worry much longer as the song ended and the couple paused. A tall, dark man approached the couple, a solemn look marring his face. He bent low and whispered something in the man's ear, giving the stewardess an apologetic glance before leaving with the red haired man in tow.
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Misao looked haughtily around her surroundings. The room that she was given was originally designed for Aoshi. Not that that fazed Misao at all, it was just that her surroundings were so...dark. The four-poster bed had deep bottle green curtains and matching velvet sheets. The walls were of a lighter olive color with black trim. Not generally considered admirable but handsome nonetheless.
Misao walked around the room hastily, still angry with Aoshi for penning her up in his room at the guesthouse. The only advantage she could see was that she would be able to see Kaoru more frequently. Misao let loose an agitated sigh as she stepped out of her room. She stealthily stalked down the steps, steeling herself from the guesthouse and up towards palace. She was determined to catch a glimpse of Kaoru at the ball.
Misao arrived promptly at the tall stained glass windows that lined the ballroom. Though she couldn't peer inside to save her life. The tall shrubbery that lined that perimeter of the palace was too thick for Misao to actually approach the grand building. Instead, she resorted to sneaking inside the palace and to get a closer look there.
To Misao's tremendous surprise, there were no guards lining the front door. She uncertainly pushed on the door and was somewhat relieved to find that it was locked. She skirted around the palace, looking for other entrances, somewhat apprehensive as to why no guards had intercepted her already. Certainly they were careful about intruders in the palace, especially on the night of a ball.
Though every door Misao tried was locked. So she resorted to clambering into one of the bedroom windows and sneaking inside. She was a woman of undertaking, not easily deterred from her goal.
The room was unoccupied, much to Misao's relief, and was located just above the ballroom. She could hear the music and the chatter below her from the various guests. Misao made her way out of the bedroom and down the steps, entering the grand entrance way. Out of curiosity, she tried one of the doors. Certainly they would open from the inside. Yet the doors would not open. The palace was locked down.
Misao paled. Where were the guards? Certainly something was wrong. She could feel it in her gut. She raced to the ballroom doors, pulling on them desperately but finding that they were locked. What could she do? She needed to alert the others!
She started banging her fists frantically against the door only to find that it didn't budge. It was impossible for anyone else to hear her calls on the other side of the door for the volume of the music and the chattering of guests smoldered her cries.
"I would back away, if I were you." A cold voice from behind Misao startled her. She turned around only to face a woman with short black hair leveled out just above the shoulders. A grim smirk was splayed across her face, shining bright eyes eagerly looking at Misao.
Misao looked at the woman before her uncertainly. "Who are you?" The kimono she was wearing was bright and too casual for a ball of this sort.
"I am Honjo Kamatari!" The woman cried and continued with much pride, "Soon-to-be Shishio's right hand man!"
Misao quirked an eyebrow at the lady standing before her. The woman held a huge stick, propped up by her arm and something glinted behind her back. "Man?" Misao asked circumspectly, "How can you be his right hand man if you're a woman?"
The woman scowled at Misao. "Why I am a man." The woman...er man, replied quite girlishly with a toss of hair over his shoulder.
Misao hunched over, scrutinizing the person in front of her with piercing emerald eyes. "You look like a woman to me."
Kamatari growled, deciding to change the subject. She wasn't there to argue with a brat. "Step away from the door, you silly girl!"
Misao folded her arms stubbornly. "I am not a silly girl, and who gave you the right to order me around?"
"My Shishio, of course." Kamatari replied haughtily, swiping the stick from behind her back to let it rest menacingly in front of her, revealing a large and deadly scythe. "Or prepare to die."
Misao's eyes glinted mischievously as she took on Kamatari's appearance. So Shishio had something to do with this? Not if Misao was there. She rolled her sleeves up in preparation for the inevitable. "Your Shishio?" Misao mocked boldly, legs spreading into a defensive stance. "Why would Shishio be interested in a cross dressing guy like yourself?"
"I will make Shishio love me, no matter what an absurd little girl like yourself says!" Kamatari grouched.
"Ouch," Misao winced, "You got it bad."
Kamatari took a menacing step forward, the scythe taking on an offensive position. "Lets go."
Misao grinned eagerly, sweeping forward in an easy stride, hopping over the scythe as Kamatari arched it in Misao's direction, only having it meet thin air.
"Over here!" Misao chirped from behind, several kunais clutched in her fists.
"So I'm facing a ninja, am I?" Kamatari noted conversationally as she readied herself again for another attack.
"Not just any ninja," Misao smirked from behind her kunais. She sprinted forward, kunais thrown with precision, aiming for the crucial points placed along the body.
Kamatari counteracted with an effortless whirl of the scythe, deflecting the kunais carelessly as they rebounded across the hall. Misao managed to catch two of the four that were thrown, and bounced around the room retrieving the rest. Kamatari was relentless though; taking wide, curving strikes at Misao that could cleave her in half if she wasn't careful.
Though between the warped strikes, Misao managed to snake her way around the blade's slashes and pin Kamatari against the far wall, the kunais embedded into his vivid clothing.
"Henya!" Kamatari shrieked from his position against the wall.
Misao favored Kamatari with a questionable glance. "Who?"
Her question was answered as a whoosh was heard from above and several knives pinned themselves at Misao's feet.
"He will beat you at your own game, girl!" Kamatari laughed wickedly from the wall as Misao looked up frantically to find a man comprised of solely skin and bone fly above her.
"H-how does he do that?" Misao gasped aloud.
The man called Henya swooped down, chucking dynamite at the ground. As the dynamite detonated, the explosion carried Henya back up into the air as he circled Misao for another attack.
Misao's eyes narrowed. "Another one from Shishio? What is he trying to do?"
She didn't have time to answer as more knives were sent flying her way. Misao easily dodged the attacks, rolling off to the side and tossing her kunais back at Henya. Henya smirked as he avoided each strike readily. He was apparently skilled in the art of flying.
Misao cursed underneath her breath, evading the dynamite explosions and the sailing knives. Misao wasn't keen on the thought of being found pinned to the ground in the palace by Aoshi when he had given her direct orders to stay within the safety of the guesthouse. Though this fight was getting nowhere and she was tiring easily.
A strangled cry was heard from above as Misao directed her gaze upward, finding a mess of brown hair and a checkered gi collapsing onto Henya. A bamboo rod was held upward before striking down efficiently onto Henya's skull. A sickening crack was heard as the pair fell down to the floor.
"Yahiko!" Misao cried out incredulously upon finding Yahiko rolling off Henya's unconscious form and to her side.
Yahiko looked dazed as he stood up, shinai in hand. "Hey," he greeted unenthusiastically, a hand rising to rub the back of his head sheepishly.
Misao shook his head. "What are you doing out of the guesthouse? We should return right away. That was some fall, though, I must say."
Yahiko nodded warily before turning towards the entrance doors. Misao shot Kamatari a death glare. "Didn't think your plans would turn out this way, did you?"
Kamatari returned the glare. "It's not over, bitch." He snarled.
Misao exchanged a wide-eyed glance with Yahiko. "Go find Kaoru." Misao ordered. "I'll go and find Aoshi." Yahiko nodded obediently before dashing off to the ballroom, only to find that the door was locked.
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Kenshin and Aoshi swept behind the guests, approaching the back door. "Horses should be awaiting us outside." Aoshi noted. Kenshin nodded and planted his hand on the doorknob. He tried to turn it, but found it was locked.
Kenshin looked up at Aoshi. "You have a key?"
Aoshi was inspecting the doorknob. "There is no key. This door is to remain open under the guard's supervision." Aoshi looked out at the ball. "There are no guards here." He said in realization.
Kenshin's eyes widened in shock. "Where could they be?"
"There's a bigger ploy at hand." Aoshi judged, scrutinizing the ballroom. He immediately walked off, a bewildered Kenshin following in his wake.
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Kaoru looked sadly as Kenshin walked off. She would have to make do for the rest of the night with out him. She gave a loud sigh before turning to confront the guests.
"Kao-chan?" A soft, friendly voice called from behind her.
Kaoru looked over her shoulder to find Soujiro; a sad smile laced his face. "What is it, Sou-chan?" Kaoru asked pleasantly, approaching Soujiro.
"Can I have a word..." Soujiro said uncertainly, "Alone?"
Kaoru nodded and followed Soujiro towards the ballroom doors, concern lighting her eyes. "Is there something wrong?"
Soujiro placed his hand on the doorknob, turning somber blue eyes in Kaoru's direction. "Forgive me," he murmured quietly, pulling the door open wide.
Kaoru gave him a questioning look before as she stepped out of the doorway, eyes widening in shock.
"Kaoru look out!" Yahiko cried as the door opened suddenly in front of him. A large, dark figure loomed out of the shadows, a hand raised to strike Kaoru.
"KENSHIN!" Kaoru shrieked before her world went black.
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A/N: Ooo, a cliffhanger? Haven't done one of those in a while, now have I? Muahahaha! cough You guys know that I'm not that evil...right? Well, I have about a week to finish this story, and I believe there's only one more chapter to post. I think I can pull it off. Thank ya thank ya for all of your reviews, they are such a pleasure to read!
Some notes and comments:
MeirinLol – Um...spoilers. Well, since there's only one more chapter, I guess spoilers won't do any good. But in my next story that I will start writing next week fingers crossed I will add spoilers, just for you! Lol.
Victoria – lol, Yes, your review made perfect sense. Hiko being an evil twisted bastard is intriguing. And there wasn't much K&K fluff in this one, to my dismay. But things needed to be put in motion.
Nguardian – aw, thanks! The chapters may be getting better, but the titles are becoming lamer, as you have probably noticed lol. I hope this chapter was even better than the last. And thanks for considering my cruise! You're so sweet, lol.
Kik-ting – Yeah, I wrote that in two days. What can you say, I was inspired.
Hiei's.punk.rocker.girl – Hopefully this was a good surprise and you understand a little better. Soujiro's role isn't clearly defined in this chapter either, but you kind of get the idea of where he is going. Lol, and I have nothing against your name. I'm an YYH fan too. But I have yet to give up on Kenshin wink
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A Love for One Hated
By: Mystic Song
Chapter 15 Enter the Fray
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Kaoru grinned broadly as she stepped out of bed, arms stretched out above her as she gave a loud yawn. There was a new bounce in her step as Kaoru headed towards the bathroom, a new kimono slung over her shoulder and a fluffy towel around her neck.
She stepped inside the bathroom, throwing all or her garments on the floor, including those she was wearing, and filled the tub with hot water. After watching the tub fill to the brim, she anxiously stepped inside, sinking to the bottom with a grateful sigh.
Kaoru languorously washed herself while watching the water slide across her skin, humming a soft song as she went. Fantasies of the ball that would take place that night ran through her head. It would be a fairytale, with Kenshin dancing by her side. There was no need for any of the other suitors; she already knew that she would pick Kenshin to be her husband.
Kaoru slipped out of the tub, quickly drying herself off and hastily tied the pale pink obi around her lavender kimono. She reached for a pink ribbon by the washtub and pulled back her damp ebony hair into a high ponytail. Without taking a second glance at the mirror, she hopped out of the bathroom and stepped out of her room.
A soft gasp was emitted from her rose petal lips and blushing face that was still flushed from the bath. Eight men were crowded outside her room, each holding a present of either silk, candy, or flowers in their hands. All of their faces were eager, anticipating which one of the presents fancied her.
It was then that Soujiro entered the hall, that steadfast smile still upon his face. "Shall we?" He asked politely, holding out an arm for Kaoru to take.
Kaoru glanced at the men around her and gave a grateful smile. "Your kindness does me too much justice. There is no need for presents." She addressed the men in front of her before walking with Soujiro down into the dining hall, leaving the men behind her questioning in her wake.
As expected, Kenshin was not present at breakfast. Kaoru assumed that he was at the dojo, training for that night. She mentally scolded Kenshin; didn't he know that he needed his strength? It shouldn't be expended that day.
Kaoru paid no more heed to her thoughts as the food was brought out, heaping plates of pancakes and eggs along with sausage and bacon. Her mouth was watering at the amount of food presented, and she immediately helped herself to a large quantity of each plate.
After breakfast, the suitors in the entrance hall once again hounded Kaoru. Kaoru looked at the men pitifully. It would do them impartiality to give each of them at least some attention. So Kaoru beckoned the men into one of the palace's many sitting rooms and chatted politely amongst the men. To her displeasure, most of the questions asked regarded her and her interests. That way she knew nothing of the men in front of her besides their names and their heritage.
'Well at least that's something...' Kaoru reflected ruefully.
Their conversation ended just a couple of hours before lunch and Kaoru quickly excused herself to find Kenshin. Though before she could make it to the dojo, a maid intercepted her and told her that she should be readying herself for the ball.
"I have at least four more hours until the ball starts!" Kaoru protested.
The maid smiled sweetly at Kaoru's naiveté and shook her head courteously. "Then that's just enough time to have you fitted into your dress and to have your makeup and hair done."
Kaoru grimaced at the thought of ten maids bustling around her, each attempting a different task: whether one being to powder her face and the other to fit her dress. It made her feel like nothing more than a doll, not being able to do anything for herself. Though the maid persisted on Kaoru returning to her room. In the end, Kaoru found that the maid was tightly gripping her wrists in fear that she may bolt as she was dragged up the steps.
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It was around noon, and Kenshin figured that the ball would begin in about two hours. He wiped the sweat from his brow with the back of his hand, returning his sakabatou to its sheath. He trudged tiredly from the dojo to the guesthouse; nodding civilly to the servants he passed. He retreated into his bathroom, preparing a hot bath for himself.
After the bath was prepared, Kenshin slipped in, feeling his muscles contract and eventually relax in the steaming water. He sat there for sometime, recollecting his nerves as he thought of an extravagant ball that would be held that evening, and the rigorous battle that would be sure to follow that night.
With a defeated sigh, Kenshin went about to washing his body. His muscles slightly sore but rested enough. He stood up, water trailing down his form as he stepped out of the tub. Grabbing a nearby towel he padded himself dry before wringing out his hair. He then wandered around his room with just a towel wrapped tightly around his waist, determining what to wear for that evening. He suited for a pair of light baggy slacks that he found he could easily maneuver in, and a magenta tunic. Without further ado, he drew his hair back into a loose ponytail at the base of his neck, and placed extra sets of clothing into a nearby trunk.
A servant was sent to retrieve Aoshi once Kenshin finished packing, his trunk being lugged down the steps behind him as he stepped out in front of the guesthouse. A carriage was awaiting him, inside seated the ever prompt Aoshi. He held the door open for his friend and companion.
"We will take this to the Aoiya. Okina will then take this carriage to our hideout. The rest will follow him shortly on horseback. We will remain at the ball only until dark, and then we must leave." Aoshi informed Kenshin bluntly.
Kenshin nodded in compliance and rode with Aoshi to the Aoiya. There Kenshin confronted the rest of the Oniwabanshu. Okon and Omasu were busying with a tedious Yahiko, beckoning for him to hurry outfront. Yahiko waved them off carelessly before slipping by Kenshin's side, looking up at the older man warily. Kenshin looked down at Yahiko fondly before turning to help the remainder of the Oniwabanshu pack their trunks into the carriage.
Aoshi ambled to the side of the Aoiya, returning with two horses for Kenshin and him to ride on for their trip back up to the palace. Kenshin mounted with Yahiko following suit, sitting tentatively behind Kenshin, holding onto his waist loosely. Aoshi waited patiently for Misao to come out, but she didn't. Aoshi sighed and exchanged a wearisome glance at Okina. Okina gave Aoshi a sly smile before entering the house, exiting this time with a disgruntled Misao.
Her mouth was pursed shut in anger, mounting the horse a little too forcefully for the horse's liking as it stomped heavily on the ground. The look that Misao gave Aoshi was that of betrayal. Kenshin could see plainly that they had argued over her participation in the fight many times. Though in the end, Aoshi had obviously won.
By the time Kenshin had returned to the guesthouse with Misao and Yahiko safely inside, it was time for him to attend the ball. He quickly dismissed himself from the bickering Misao before heading up towards the palace.
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Kaoru examined herself subconsciously in the vanity mirror. Never had she worn a dress so elegant. It was a silk kimono with pink sakura petals floating towards the hem of the skirt. The obi was also of a pale pink, tied firmly around her waist. It was a kimono of the utmost simplicity, but at the greatest degree of elegance as well. Her hair was done in a similar manner. Her hair was twisted back into a taut bun as several pieces of ebony locks framed her face. Kaoru's face was painted the traditional white, the rouge the same color as her obi.
Kaoru looked at herself and thought it was overdone. She was appearing as someone she was not. Though she was often told she was the stewardess now. Therefore she had to look and act like one. Kaoru detested the act greatly, but Hiko had been more than generous to her by allowing her to marry Kenshin. This was the least she could do in return.
'Speak of the devil,' Kaoru thought as a strident knock was heard against Kaoru's door and Hiko Seijuro stepped inside. The maids quickly scattered from Kaoru and gave their lord a deep bow. Kaoru followed suit, though not daring to bend far in fear that she may ruin her dress or hair.
Hiko gave her an arrogant smirk and beckoned Kaoru forward with the wave of his hand. "Finally," he sniffed, "You look like a stewardess."
Kaoru wasn't sure if she should consider that as a compliment or an insult. She decided to remain silent.
Hiko looked at her with amusement as he led her down the steps and into the entrance hall. The ballroom was held just beyond the dining hall, nearby the kitchens. He pushed open the wide oak doors and the overbearing scent of perfume and wine sent Kaoru's senses reeling. As they entered, the guests began to applaud loudly. Hiko offered the room a smile, as did Kaoru.
They entered the fray, striding towards the middle of the ballroom where they separated. "Don't forget to mingle." Hiko reminded Kaoru haughtily as he stalked off to a group of elderly nobles in the far corner.
Kaoru was tempted to scrunch her nose in distaste, though stopped in fear of ruining her makeup. Instead, a small tap was felt on her shoulder, and she turned to face a stunning red head wearing a pink tunic.
"May I have this dance?" Kenshin asked humbly.
Kaoru gave him a grateful smile. "Of course." She held out her hand for Kenshin to take, leading her towards the other dancing couples.
"You look stunning tonight." Kenshin noted, a boyish grin spreading across his face.
Kaoru giggled. "As do you. That pink tunic suits you well."
Kenshin pouted. "I would like to think it's magenta."
Kaoru bowed her head to keep herself from laughing in what Hiko would claim to be an unlady-like manner. "Whatever you say, Kenshin."
Kenshin simply grinned, resting one hand on her hip while taking Kaoru's free hand with his. He skirted about the dance floor, gracefully dipping and twirling Kaoru as they went. Kaoru beamed at Kenshin all the while, truly enjoying herself.
An hour had passed in similar conduct, Kenshin hogging Kaoru all to himself. The rest of the suitors glanced worriedly at the stewardess, wondering how they could compare themselves to the dashing red head she was so indulged with. Though they didn't have to worry much longer as the song ended and the couple paused. A tall, dark man approached the couple, a solemn look marring his face. He bent low and whispered something in the man's ear, giving the stewardess an apologetic glance before leaving with the red haired man in tow.
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Misao looked haughtily around her surroundings. The room that she was given was originally designed for Aoshi. Not that that fazed Misao at all, it was just that her surroundings were so...dark. The four-poster bed had deep bottle green curtains and matching velvet sheets. The walls were of a lighter olive color with black trim. Not generally considered admirable but handsome nonetheless.
Misao walked around the room hastily, still angry with Aoshi for penning her up in his room at the guesthouse. The only advantage she could see was that she would be able to see Kaoru more frequently. Misao let loose an agitated sigh as she stepped out of her room. She stealthily stalked down the steps, steeling herself from the guesthouse and up towards palace. She was determined to catch a glimpse of Kaoru at the ball.
Misao arrived promptly at the tall stained glass windows that lined the ballroom. Though she couldn't peer inside to save her life. The tall shrubbery that lined that perimeter of the palace was too thick for Misao to actually approach the grand building. Instead, she resorted to sneaking inside the palace and to get a closer look there.
To Misao's tremendous surprise, there were no guards lining the front door. She uncertainly pushed on the door and was somewhat relieved to find that it was locked. She skirted around the palace, looking for other entrances, somewhat apprehensive as to why no guards had intercepted her already. Certainly they were careful about intruders in the palace, especially on the night of a ball.
Though every door Misao tried was locked. So she resorted to clambering into one of the bedroom windows and sneaking inside. She was a woman of undertaking, not easily deterred from her goal.
The room was unoccupied, much to Misao's relief, and was located just above the ballroom. She could hear the music and the chatter below her from the various guests. Misao made her way out of the bedroom and down the steps, entering the grand entrance way. Out of curiosity, she tried one of the doors. Certainly they would open from the inside. Yet the doors would not open. The palace was locked down.
Misao paled. Where were the guards? Certainly something was wrong. She could feel it in her gut. She raced to the ballroom doors, pulling on them desperately but finding that they were locked. What could she do? She needed to alert the others!
She started banging her fists frantically against the door only to find that it didn't budge. It was impossible for anyone else to hear her calls on the other side of the door for the volume of the music and the chattering of guests smoldered her cries.
"I would back away, if I were you." A cold voice from behind Misao startled her. She turned around only to face a woman with short black hair leveled out just above the shoulders. A grim smirk was splayed across her face, shining bright eyes eagerly looking at Misao.
Misao looked at the woman before her uncertainly. "Who are you?" The kimono she was wearing was bright and too casual for a ball of this sort.
"I am Honjo Kamatari!" The woman cried and continued with much pride, "Soon-to-be Shishio's right hand man!"
Misao quirked an eyebrow at the lady standing before her. The woman held a huge stick, propped up by her arm and something glinted behind her back. "Man?" Misao asked circumspectly, "How can you be his right hand man if you're a woman?"
The woman scowled at Misao. "Why I am a man." The woman...er man, replied quite girlishly with a toss of hair over his shoulder.
Misao hunched over, scrutinizing the person in front of her with piercing emerald eyes. "You look like a woman to me."
Kamatari growled, deciding to change the subject. She wasn't there to argue with a brat. "Step away from the door, you silly girl!"
Misao folded her arms stubbornly. "I am not a silly girl, and who gave you the right to order me around?"
"My Shishio, of course." Kamatari replied haughtily, swiping the stick from behind her back to let it rest menacingly in front of her, revealing a large and deadly scythe. "Or prepare to die."
Misao's eyes glinted mischievously as she took on Kamatari's appearance. So Shishio had something to do with this? Not if Misao was there. She rolled her sleeves up in preparation for the inevitable. "Your Shishio?" Misao mocked boldly, legs spreading into a defensive stance. "Why would Shishio be interested in a cross dressing guy like yourself?"
"I will make Shishio love me, no matter what an absurd little girl like yourself says!" Kamatari grouched.
"Ouch," Misao winced, "You got it bad."
Kamatari took a menacing step forward, the scythe taking on an offensive position. "Lets go."
Misao grinned eagerly, sweeping forward in an easy stride, hopping over the scythe as Kamatari arched it in Misao's direction, only having it meet thin air.
"Over here!" Misao chirped from behind, several kunais clutched in her fists.
"So I'm facing a ninja, am I?" Kamatari noted conversationally as she readied herself again for another attack.
"Not just any ninja," Misao smirked from behind her kunais. She sprinted forward, kunais thrown with precision, aiming for the crucial points placed along the body.
Kamatari counteracted with an effortless whirl of the scythe, deflecting the kunais carelessly as they rebounded across the hall. Misao managed to catch two of the four that were thrown, and bounced around the room retrieving the rest. Kamatari was relentless though; taking wide, curving strikes at Misao that could cleave her in half if she wasn't careful.
Though between the warped strikes, Misao managed to snake her way around the blade's slashes and pin Kamatari against the far wall, the kunais embedded into his vivid clothing.
"Henya!" Kamatari shrieked from his position against the wall.
Misao favored Kamatari with a questionable glance. "Who?"
Her question was answered as a whoosh was heard from above and several knives pinned themselves at Misao's feet.
"He will beat you at your own game, girl!" Kamatari laughed wickedly from the wall as Misao looked up frantically to find a man comprised of solely skin and bone fly above her.
"H-how does he do that?" Misao gasped aloud.
The man called Henya swooped down, chucking dynamite at the ground. As the dynamite detonated, the explosion carried Henya back up into the air as he circled Misao for another attack.
Misao's eyes narrowed. "Another one from Shishio? What is he trying to do?"
She didn't have time to answer as more knives were sent flying her way. Misao easily dodged the attacks, rolling off to the side and tossing her kunais back at Henya. Henya smirked as he avoided each strike readily. He was apparently skilled in the art of flying.
Misao cursed underneath her breath, evading the dynamite explosions and the sailing knives. Misao wasn't keen on the thought of being found pinned to the ground in the palace by Aoshi when he had given her direct orders to stay within the safety of the guesthouse. Though this fight was getting nowhere and she was tiring easily.
A strangled cry was heard from above as Misao directed her gaze upward, finding a mess of brown hair and a checkered gi collapsing onto Henya. A bamboo rod was held upward before striking down efficiently onto Henya's skull. A sickening crack was heard as the pair fell down to the floor.
"Yahiko!" Misao cried out incredulously upon finding Yahiko rolling off Henya's unconscious form and to her side.
Yahiko looked dazed as he stood up, shinai in hand. "Hey," he greeted unenthusiastically, a hand rising to rub the back of his head sheepishly.
Misao shook his head. "What are you doing out of the guesthouse? We should return right away. That was some fall, though, I must say."
Yahiko nodded warily before turning towards the entrance doors. Misao shot Kamatari a death glare. "Didn't think your plans would turn out this way, did you?"
Kamatari returned the glare. "It's not over, bitch." He snarled.
Misao exchanged a wide-eyed glance with Yahiko. "Go find Kaoru." Misao ordered. "I'll go and find Aoshi." Yahiko nodded obediently before dashing off to the ballroom, only to find that the door was locked.
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Kenshin and Aoshi swept behind the guests, approaching the back door. "Horses should be awaiting us outside." Aoshi noted. Kenshin nodded and planted his hand on the doorknob. He tried to turn it, but found it was locked.
Kenshin looked up at Aoshi. "You have a key?"
Aoshi was inspecting the doorknob. "There is no key. This door is to remain open under the guard's supervision." Aoshi looked out at the ball. "There are no guards here." He said in realization.
Kenshin's eyes widened in shock. "Where could they be?"
"There's a bigger ploy at hand." Aoshi judged, scrutinizing the ballroom. He immediately walked off, a bewildered Kenshin following in his wake.
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Kaoru looked sadly as Kenshin walked off. She would have to make do for the rest of the night with out him. She gave a loud sigh before turning to confront the guests.
"Kao-chan?" A soft, friendly voice called from behind her.
Kaoru looked over her shoulder to find Soujiro; a sad smile laced his face. "What is it, Sou-chan?" Kaoru asked pleasantly, approaching Soujiro.
"Can I have a word..." Soujiro said uncertainly, "Alone?"
Kaoru nodded and followed Soujiro towards the ballroom doors, concern lighting her eyes. "Is there something wrong?"
Soujiro placed his hand on the doorknob, turning somber blue eyes in Kaoru's direction. "Forgive me," he murmured quietly, pulling the door open wide.
Kaoru gave him a questioning look before as she stepped out of the doorway, eyes widening in shock.
"Kaoru look out!" Yahiko cried as the door opened suddenly in front of him. A large, dark figure loomed out of the shadows, a hand raised to strike Kaoru.
"KENSHIN!" Kaoru shrieked before her world went black.
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A/N: Ooo, a cliffhanger? Haven't done one of those in a while, now have I? Muahahaha! cough You guys know that I'm not that evil...right? Well, I have about a week to finish this story, and I believe there's only one more chapter to post. I think I can pull it off. Thank ya thank ya for all of your reviews, they are such a pleasure to read!
Some notes and comments:
MeirinLol – Um...spoilers. Well, since there's only one more chapter, I guess spoilers won't do any good. But in my next story that I will start writing next week fingers crossed I will add spoilers, just for you! Lol.
Victoria – lol, Yes, your review made perfect sense. Hiko being an evil twisted bastard is intriguing. And there wasn't much K&K fluff in this one, to my dismay. But things needed to be put in motion.
Nguardian – aw, thanks! The chapters may be getting better, but the titles are becoming lamer, as you have probably noticed lol. I hope this chapter was even better than the last. And thanks for considering my cruise! You're so sweet, lol.
Kik-ting – Yeah, I wrote that in two days. What can you say, I was inspired.
Hiei's.punk.rocker.girl – Hopefully this was a good surprise and you understand a little better. Soujiro's role isn't clearly defined in this chapter either, but you kind of get the idea of where he is going. Lol, and I have nothing against your name. I'm an YYH fan too. But I have yet to give up on Kenshin wink