Author's Note: Here's another filler chapter that builds the plot up to the climax and the suspense will grow with the wedding approaching. It's long because it's involved and important to the plot. I have also nestled another very fluffy scene with the betrothed couple as the bride reminisces about her late parents. Also the involvement of the Oniwabanshuu will now become a paramount ingredient to the story. Thanks to the readers (6464 hits) and the faithful and encouraging reviewers. A special thanks to Gypsy-chan whose been posting this on her terrific RK site—if you can, I'd love you to review: )

Glossary of Japanese words

Atokaka—Trace

Shinai—Bamboo sword used for practice—Yahiko's main weapon

Ogenki desu ka—How are you?

Okasan—Mother

Otasan—Father

Tabi—Split toe socks warn with sandals—traditional Japanese footwear

Gomen nasai—I'm sorry

THE ENEMY'S STRONGHOLD

The next day, Kenshin, Sanosuke, and Danjuro all converged on the Tokyo police department. Tae had contacted the police about Akai Ryu breaking into the Akabeko and their failed attack. This morning, a notice came to the dojo for Kenshin as the man of the house to come to the headquarters to make a report. Sanosuke, there for breakfast, decided to tag along and they ran into Danjuro who was there for his own yet related reason.

"Danjuro-san, what are you doing here?" Kenshin asked, his eyes quizzically assessing.

Danjuro replied with grim determination, "I came here to try to put a stop to Akai Ryu. Their attack of your family at the celebration of your upcoming marriage is unforgivable."

Kenshin smiled and bowed as he said, "Arigatou for your concern, but the attack last night will be handled by me. You needn't trouble yourself, that you shouldn't."

Danjuro frowned as he responded, "It is because of Itikaku Mizu that you've been targeted. I'm sorry but I am involved and as a former comrade in war, I plan to assist you in halting Akai Ryu." He folded his arms obstinately.

Sanosuke glanced at Kenshin who shrugged his shoulders with a grin and said, "I welcome your assistance." The trio went into the building and approached the reception desk to inquire of Lieutenant Fujita and ran into Chief Muraki who greeted them.

"Ah Himura-san. I just heard from the evening report that Akai Ryu disrupted your yui-no. I'm sorry we got to the Akabeko after they left but I have my men searching the city for them."

Kenshin answered laconically, "It won't be easy to find them, that it won't. During the Bakumatsu, they were part of the Shinsengumi and they are experts in subterfuge. Like all hitokiri, they move within the shadows of the night."

"Honto ne," the Chief responded. "I've already informed Lieutenant Fujita of the situation. He's been expecting you."

"Arigatou, Chief," Kenshin said and bowed respectfully. He and the other men headed down the hall to the office of Fujita Goro, AKA Saito Haijme.

The door opened as they got there and the former leader of the third Shinsengumi greeted them with a smirk, "Ah Battousai, I've been waiting for you. Come in." He glanced at the other two in disdain as he added, "But I didn't expect you to bring guests."

Sano retorted, "That's tough Saito, but I was there at the Akabeko last night and so was Danjuro here so we figured we'd help out."

Saito strode to his desk and sat his long lean form in the chair as he said in a slightly haughty manner, "I don't have a need for second person reports, I can get all I need from the Battousai." He leaned back and lit a cigarette, blowing a stream of smoke at the former fighter who scowled at the police lieutenant.

Sanosuke sputtered, "Why you," but Kenshin held up his hand.

"Sano, please." He examined Saito with narrowed eyes. "Do you have anything to go on?"

Saito took a drag on his smoke and shrugged indolently, "I've done some digging since we spoke last and looked into Akai Ryu. They have a very covert network here in Tokyo. As you recall, Hashimoto Etsuyo was once known as Atokaka, because he doesn't let himself get caught easily."

"Hashimoto," Kenshin said grimly. "That figures, he was always involved in the most insidious operations."

"Hai, he hasn't changed a bit," Danjuro spoke disgustedly.

Saito studied Danjuro with narrowed golden eyes. "I thought I recognized you. You're Kamioka, one of the grunts of the Ishin Shishi."

Danjuro nodded as he answered, "And you're the Wolf of Mibu. So you've changed your loyalties, now you work for the Meiji instead of the shogunate, huh?"

Saito nonchalantly flicked his ashes in a nearly overflowing ashtray as he shrugged, "So what? I'm just trying to maintain peace here in Japan's capital, and protect her citizenry." He took another drag as he added, "I still go by the same code Aku Soku Zan, evil is evil no matter what."

"So what have you found?"

Saito shook his head as he said, "Things have not changed since we last spoke, Battousai."

Kenshin sighed as he stated, "So we're at a dead end."

Saito crushed his cigarette out as he nodded. "For the time being. But knowing Hashimoto as I do, he's just laying low, waiting for the next opportunity." He eyed Kenshin steadily as he said, "Maybe your friends from the Oniwabanshu can use their many talents in spying to get more for you. They're staying with you for a while, aren't they?"

"So you're not going to do anything?" Sano demanded.

Saito glared at him. "Not that I have to answer to a tori-atama like you but I intend to do what I have been doing and that is, my job, a concept you have no knowledge of."

Sano shot to his feet to deliver a stinging retort with fists raised but Kenshin and Danjuro grabbed him by the arms and headed to go out.

"Arigatou, Saito-san. Please let us know what you find," Danjuro said bowing.

Saito grunted as he said, "Kamioka-san, we are aware of the attacks on your hanare Kirishitan group and rest assured you shall be protected." To Kenshin he scoffed, "I see that you've a new method to keep you from killing, eh Battousai?" He shook his head pityingly. "Such foolishness."

Without a word Kenshin turned to leave. . . .

Over in the man government building, Yamagata Aritomo was in conference with Police Inspector Kawaji, reports of various attacks on Itikaku Mizu before them. Yamagato puffed on his cigar as he perused the documents with a frown.

"Inspector Kawaji, it is deplorable that a group of innocent people is being so harassed. The lifting of the ban on practicing their faith should assure them safety, yet it is not. Can you explain why this is so?"

Inspector Kawaji, an excitable man who took everything directed at the running of the police department personally bristled as he hastened to defend his command. "Yamagata-sama, we are doing the best we can. The attacks on Itikaku Mizu are spaced apart and the investigations of the incidents have turned up empty. The members of Akai Ryu who are our prime suspects are very adept at covering their tracks."

Yamagata studied the glowing tip of his cigar. "Akai Ryu. So they are still milling about, eh? I would have thought they, like other Shinsengumi would have disbanded and accepted the Meiji laws but perhaps that is a bit naïve on my part."

Kawaji pursed his lips as he said, "They seem to be getting bolder. I have a feeling that Itikaku Mizu is not their only objective."

Yamagata leaned forward as he said, "Honto desu ka? And what else makes you arrive at that assumption?"

Kawaji took a deep breath as he continued, "Because they attacked the Akabeko last night where Himura Kenshin and Kamiya-san were having their yui-no. Nobody was hurt but Muraki's men took a statement from the proprietress Seikihara Tae with a complete eyewitness account."

Yamagata nodded as he said, "I see." He glanced at the report before him and then asked, "So you believe Himura and Kamiya-san are also their targets. That's not out of the question since Himura is a known Imperialist." He stabbed out his cigar, rose to his feet, and said with authority, "Kawaji, get us a carriage, we're going to the Kamiya Dojo."

"Hai, sir." He went out to do as he was bade as Yamagata stood at the window and stared out, the thoughtful frown remaining. . . .

Back at the dojo there was a flurry of activity as the courtyard was teeming with the presence of the members of the Oniwabanshuu, Yahiko, Hiko and Kaoru. She and Yahiko were busy sparring in the courtyard as Hiko, Okina, Shiro, and Kuro watched. Omasu and Ochika were in the kitchen busy preparing lunch, as Misao was a spectator with occasional kibitzing and the mock fight went on.

"C'mon Kaoru. You can get him easy," Misao urged as Yahiko gave her a dirty look.

"Hey no fair Misao. Busu has the advantage over me anyway. It's me you should be helping."

Kaoru stood up getting out of her crouch and retorted, "Yahiko, stop complaining. If you've been doing your practice katas you should be able to counter anything I throw at you." She resumed her fighting stance as he got into position. "Now, come at me!"

Yahiko readied himself to charge as Kaoru stood at the ready. He came forward, shinai raised with a yell as his sensei parried and with a graceful move avoided her student's blow. But he stopped suddenly and turned to strike her full in the back with the shinai, knocking her off balance. She stumbled and caught herself before she landed on the ground whirling about and in a halfway squat, breathing heavily.

"Good job, Yahiko," Kaoru said as she stood up. "That was a perfect counterattack."

The former pickpocket grinned widely at the rare but richly deserved compliment. "Really? Arigatou, Kaoru."

Hiko Seijiro watched in between generous swallows of sake and commented evenly, "You have a very good deshi, Kamiya-san. He learns what he is taught and follows through. Unlike my baka deshi."

At that remark, the dojo gate opened and the referred to party accompanied by Sanosuke stepped over to the loosely gathered group. He cast a jaundiced eye at his shishou as he said, "Tadaima, minna. I see that my shishou is his usual charming self."

Hiko grunted as he took another swig from his omnipresent jug. "At least Kamiya-san knows how to be a gracious hostess. It's a good thing that you're marrying her, maybe her good manners will rub off."

Kenshin ignored the jibe as he went to Kaoru and kissed her cheek in greeting. "Konchi wa, koishii. Ogenki desu ka?"

She gave him a warm smile of welcome as she replied, "Fine, just sparring with Yahiko and he just won a battle with a superb move. Suburashii."

Kenshin reached and tussled the boy's unruly head in approval. "Good work, Yahiko. I'm proud of the progress you've made."

Yahiko grinned at his hero as a knock sounded at the gate and Inspector Kawaji and Lord Yamagata stepped in.

Kawaji cleared his throat as he brusquely announced, "Yamagata-sama wishes to speak with Himura in private so all of you please leave." His words caused those gathered to have varying looks of surprise and slight outrage with some, namely Misao, Yahiko, and Sanosuke to open their mouths to protest but Kenshin held up his hand to silence them.

Yamagata admonished, "Kawaji you're being rude, you have no right to ask the inhabitants of the dojo to leave their own property. Let me at least greet everyone." He bowed to all deeply. "Please accept my apology for the intrusion but I must speak to Himura-san about a matter of great importance. So if all of you would be so kind to grant us the privacy, I would be grateful."

Kaoru then took charge as she said crisply, "Okay minna, let's go inside. I'm sure Omasu and Ochika have almost finished preparing lunch so c'mon." She shepherded the protesters and the others inside as she shot a quick glance at Kenshin, which he acknowledged with a nod and smile.

The flame haired swordsman then turned and regarded the two officials. "What is it, Yamagata-sama?"

The statesman smiled at his former comrade-in-arms. "First, I'd like to congratulate you on your upcoming wedding. Kamiya-san is a lovely young woman."

Kenshin smiled as he agreed, "Hai, she certainly is. I'm looking forward to our wedding day, that I am."

"When is it?"

"We've chosen September 23rd, the autumn festival as the date."

Yamagata smiled again. "That's a fine day for a wedding."

Kenshin nodded as he said, "I take it your visit here is not to discuss my wedding. So Yamagata-sama, please tell me what it is that is so important."

The mustachioed government official nodded and then began, "I understand you've been involved in Itikaku Mizu, Himura."

"Hai."

He continued, "You know then that our former comrade, Kamioka Danjuro is the leader of that hanare Kirishitan group?"

Again Kenshin nodded in the affirmative. "Hai."

"Do you know that he has approached me about seeking the government's protection for the hanare Kirishitans from the groups that attack them, specifically the Akai Ryu?"

Kenshin closed his eyes and nodded once more as he replied, "Hai, I've witnessed them in action, that I have. They are quite brazen in their attempts to intimidate, they threatened Kamioka at the Akabeko which, was stopped before they had a chance to harm Kamioka and his wife. Then the Itikaku Mizu meeting place burned and we believe Akai Ryu is behind it. So Kaoru has graciously allowed the group to meet here."

Yamagata responded, "Then you both are involved in the group?"

"Hai."

"Then my next question becomes moot. You're already protecting the group. But in order to get the parlement and the Emperor to act to protect those people we need more information about Akai Ryu. Any way you can find out more about them?"

Kenshin replied, "We have here at the dojo as guests Shinomori Aoshi and the Oniwabanshuu. Perhaps I can ask his assistance."

As if on cue, the dojo gate swung open and the tall, taciturn Shinomori Aoshi walked in, returning from his morning devotions at the temple nearby. He regarded Kenshin and the visitors expressionlessly.

"Forgive my intrusion, Battousai," he said in a deadpan voice.

Kenshin smiled at him. "Don't worry about it, Aoshi. Actually, your presence is most auspicious, that it is. I have a favor to ask."

Aoshi's icy eyes widened slightly as he waited. "Hai?"

Yamagata spoke, "Shinomori-san, we were discussing the Aik Ryu. Are you familiar with them?"

"Somewhat. They were the ones who disrupted the yui-no."

Kawaji, who had been silent through the exchange said, "We were wondering if you and the Oniwabanshuu could find anything out with your network of spies."

Aoshi remained passive in his expression as he responded, "I'll confer with Misao and Okina then contact our operatives here in Tokyo."

Kenshin said, "Arigatou, Aoshi," as the man nodded and turned to enter the dojo. He addressed Yamagata respectfully, "I will also do what I can. What may I ask, are you planning to do?"

"Mind yourself and show some respect!" snapped Kawaji. "Yamagata-sama is doing what he can."

"Kawaji, go wait in the carriage. I wish to discuss the rest with Himura, alone." Yamagata abruptly dismissed the excitable police inspector, who properly cowed, did as he was told. He turned to Kenshin and apologized again. "Forgive him, Himura. He has a lot to deal with and this Akai Ryu business is causing quite a bit of duress."

Kenshin assured him. "Apologies are humbly accepted but unnecessary, Yamagata-sama. I understand the inspector's distress and you and he can depend on me to lend whatever assistance I can."

Yamagata nodded and added with regret, "I'm sorry that this interferes with the planning of your wedding. Please send my apologies to your bride as well."

Kenshin waved it off. "Again, no apologies are necessary. Kaoru is as committed to this cause as I am, that she is."

Yamagata nodded and bowed. "Then I await your report." He turned and exited as Kenshin sighed and headed in to lunch.

Inside the dining room, there was a great commotion as everyone was grabbing for the food placed down, specifically Yahiko and Sanosuke who did their best impressions of swine at a pig trough as if neither had seen food before. Kenshin entered unobtrusively and sat on the empty cushion beside Kaoru. He observed the feeding frenzy taking place and commented with amusement.

"Well, it looks like I got here right on time, that it does." His face bore a broad smile as Kaoru sighed in disgust.

"You'd think that since we have guests they'd be a bit more polite but I guess it's too much to hope for." She then regarded her intended quizzically as she asked, "So what did Yamagata-sama want, Kenshin?"

He reached for the bowl of rice before him and with his chopsticks began to eat. He swallowed a mouthful and replied, "Nothing of great importance, koishii." He leaned closer to whisper so nobody could hear, "It has to do with Itikaku Mizu and the attacks on them. And the attack at our yui-no."

"I see," Kaoru nodded. Unlike her usual curious self, she resumed eating without further comment, arising a bit of anxiety in Kenshin but he did not pursue it. But it was apparent to him by nature of her demeanor she had something on her mind.

Misao demanded, "So Himura, do you intend to tell us what the visit from Yamagata-sama was all about?"

Sano perked up as he said with a full mouth. "Yeah, what's up, Kenshin? Why is a big wheel like Yamagata coming here to the dojo?"

Kenshin took a sip of tea as he said, "It really is not a big deal. He had some questions for me and I answered them. He glanced at Aoshi as he inquired, "Aoshi, after lunch I'd like to speak to you privately if I may."

Aoshi nodded as he replied, "Hai, Battousai."

Misao looked from, Kenshin to Aoshi and decided to hold any further questions but she did ask, "So how did the trip to the police go? What are they planning to do about that Akai Ryu group that attacked us last night?"

Again Kenshin wordlessly took a sip of tea as Sanosuke said caustically, "Feh, they'll do a lot of nothing. That creep Saito said he checked around but that amounts to a hill of crap if you ask me."

Kenshin sighed as he said, "The police are doing what they can, Sano. We couldn't give an accurate description of what the intruders looked like due to their masks. Akai Ryu are expert at disappearing into nothing after they attack, it's been their specialty since the Bakumatsu."

Yahiko bristled as his ire rose. "So we do nothing."

Kaoru, who was silent throughout the exchange rose and said irately, "If that's the final answer then that's it, minna. If you'll all excuse me, I have something to do." With that word, she left the group abruptly, drawing a look of concern from Kenshin. Her uncustomary silence during the meal after he shared the information he had about Akai Ryu disturbed him.

Misao called out, "Wait, Kaoru-chan," but was halted by Aoshi who gave her a meaningful look as he too rose.

He addressed Kenshin, "I await you in my quarters, Battousai."

Kenshin nodded as Aoshi also exited. He then rose himself as he said cheerfully to all, "Please excuse me as well." He then followed Aoshi as the others exchanged puzzled looks.

As he made his way to Aoshi's room, Kenshin wondered about Kaoru and her distracted manner as she jettisoned and his worry for his beloved grew. He determined to seek her out when his business with Aoshi was concluded. . . .

Meanwhile, the object of his musings was in a seldom used room at the rear of the living quarters of the dojo. Due to the fact that at one time the Kamiya Dojo was a prestigious place of the instruction of kenjutsu and boarded many students, it had several rooms that at one time housed their students. Now that it was a shadow of its former glory, this particular section was closed up and vacant, forgotten save one room, the room Kaoru was unlocking and entering.

Bearing a lit candle in a holder, she made her way into a room that was at first glance, turned into a storage room of sorts. It had several boxes and bundles stored and a large wooden chest that had brass locks which stood in the far corner. Kaoru placed the candle on a pile of boxes nearby and then knelt as she drew out a key from her obi to unlock the chest. She slid the key in the main lock and it clicked open. She then threw open the top of the chest and sighed as she gazed inside at the myriad of fine kimonos and other articles of clothing lying within. Kaoru reached for the top one and held it to her nose, breathing in the soft honeysuckle scent as a tear trickled from her eye.

"Okasan," she said softly as a sob escaped. . . .

In Aoshi's room, Kenshin had just finished explaining the entire situation to the former and present commander of the Oniwabanshuu as all three men sat on the tatami. Kenshin finished his narrative as Okina nodded in understanding.

"I see. We are only too happy to assist you, Himura and find out what we can about Akai Ryu. I'll send Misao to the commander of the Tokyo branch of the Oniwabanshuu and then when she returns with the information, I'll send Shiro and Ochika to observe them. They will not be detected, the Oniwabanshuu is known for our discretion."

"Iie, it it dangerous," Aoshi stated bluntly. "Misao must not go alone, I'll accompany her." He folded his arms across his chest. His concern for the shinobi maid was evident in the glint in his cold eyes.

Kenshin agreed, "As you wish, Aoshi. Arigatou for your assistance." He rose and made his way to the door, but Aoshi's baritone stopped him.

"Battousai, this is no longer your battle alone."

Kenshin felt gratitude rise in his heart for the man who at one time considered him his most hated enemy. He nodded as he said, "Hai," then disappeared behind the shoji.

Kenshin was making his way down the hall when he was confronted by Misao, who alarmed him with the worried expression on her gamin face.

"Himura, have you seen Kaoru? She's disappeared since lunch and we're all getting worried."

Kenshin frowned as he asked sharply, "And nobody has seen her?"

Misao shook her head in response and he felt a cold chill grip him. He scowled as his violet eyes narrowed and said in a steely voice, "Go tell the others to get together and I'll be there shortly. In the meantime, I'll search in her room." And he took off down the hall at a run.

Kenshin stopped at her closed bedroom door and knocked. "Kaoru? Are you in there, it's me. Kaoru?" He slid open the shoji to discover that the room was empty. He slammed the shoji closed with a curse as he made his way to the main area where everybody was gathered, their faces tense. He fired off directives.

"All right everybody I want you all to thoroughly search the dojo from top to bottom. Check the storehouse, the bathhouse and every room. Yahiko, you and Sano head over to the Akabeko and Dr. Gensai's to see if she went there. I'll check the unused sleeping quarters at the end of the training hall, she has to be here somewhere." Everyone scattered to do Kenshin's bidding but his shishou, who much to his growing annoyance just stood by swigging sake.

Hiko approached Kenshin and scoffed, "You shouldn't get so upset, baka. Kamiya-san is a strong woman and she's fine I'm sure."

Kenshin glowered at his shishou and opened his mouth to retort but closed it realizing that Hiko had no idea why he was so adamant about Kaoru's safety. He had no clue about the ordeal with Enishi and that during that time the non compos mentos action of the grief crazed man had Kenshin believing that she had been killed. He then had the unwanted memory return to him, of walking into the dojo after the battles with Enishi and his henchmen and finding the most horrific scene, the one scene that was his worst nightmare. A mannequin that at the time he believed was Kaoru's lifeless body pierced through and pinned to the wall with a cross-shaped scar on her left cheek had greeted him. The shock of that sight had sent him into a numbness that bordered on catatonia as he left without a word to languish in Rakuninumura, a place he went to die. For he knew in his heart a life without Kaoru was a life without living, an empty existence. When he discovered that her alleged death was an elaborate hoax cooked up by Enishi's diseased mind, he went to rescue her and having defeated his former brother-in-law, he promised himself he would make sure he would protect Kaoru with his life. And now although he was probably jumping to conclusions with a new threat on the horizon, and just before he made her permanently his, her sudden disappearance brought that horror back.

He was lost in his reverie until Hiko shook his shoulder and said sharply, "You're not going to find her standing here daydreaming. Get moving."

Without another word or a backward glance Kenshin headed for the far end of the training hall where he went into the cluster of unused rooms. He checked each one, noting they were closed and locked until he came to the last one, which was open and had a dim light within. He silently crept inside and was nearly limp with relief when he spotted Kaoru kneeling before a large open chest. He slipped into the shadows to observe her just glad she was all right.

Meanwhile, Kaoru was still going through her mother's chest and found among the clothes a leather bound book that looked to be a journal. She cracked the tome open and the first entry appeared to be dated about eight months before her birth date:

October 12, 1861

I can feel the child move inside me. Koshijiro was so happy when I told him about the baby, but I know he wishes for a son to carry on the Kamiya name and the Kamiya Kasshin Ryu, katsujin-ken that he is developing. I'm just glad he's home safe and sound with all the killing going on during these terrible days. It frightens me to even be bringing a baby into such a violent world.

But I am thrilled to know that soon I will hold this new life in my arms. I won't tell Koshijiro this but I hope that this child is a little girl, someone I can dress up and teach to be the ideal Japanese woman. I saved my wedding kimono for her to wear and I'd love for her to have her father's spirit and blue eyes.

Kaoru sniffled as she said, "Forgive me, okasan. I'm afraid I must be a disappointment to you, I'm not the ideal Japanese woman."

She sobbed softly and from his hiding place, Kenshin ached to take his precious tenshi in his arms and kiss her tears away as he convinced her otherwise. But he sensed a need for Kaoru to have privacy so he remained hidden as he continued to watch. . . .

Kaoru flipped ahead in the journal, past her birth and to the period of her mother's failing health, just before her death:

My time is growing short and I know I will not see my dear Kaoru-chan grow into the lovely woman I know she will be one day. I also will not see her meet a wonderful man and get married or have her own family. I know that my little girl has just turned five years old, but my heart is heavy with this cruel reality. I told Koshijiro where my wedding kimono is and how I want it kept and given to Kaoru for her wedding day.

Kaoru then reached into her obi and withdrew a worn, folded piece of parchment that she carefully unfolded and read in a soft voice aloud:

Kaoru-chan,

This is a letter to give to you, this day of your sixteenth birthday from me, your father. Before she left this world, your mother wanted you to know two things. One was that she loved you deeply and lastly that she wanted you to have her wedding kimono, which she saved for you since before you were born. It is locked in her trunk for the day you say your wedding vows and should anything happen to me, it is our wish you would wear it as a way of having us there.

Love,

Otasan.

Kaoru's tears began falling again, wetting the missive and smearing the ink as she murmured, "Otasan, Okasan how I wish you could be here with me now." She sniffled again as she reached into the trunk and gasped in awe as she withdrew one of the most beautiful kimonos she had ever seen. It was fine watered silk in ivory with red rose vines snaking up from the hem and encircling the edges. A snow white outer garment also embroidered with roses and made of fine silk was there. Kaoru reverently fingered the articles as a soft tenor murmured.

"They're both very beautiful, that they are."

Kaoru whirled around and saw her future husband gazing at her lovingly as he stepped out from the corner where he was concealed. Kenshin approached her slowly and knelt down beside her as he wrapped her in his arms.

"You scared everybody when you disappeared, Kaoru," he gently admonished. "I have everybody searching everywhere for you." He tightened his arms around her.

Kaoru closed her eyes as she said sheepishly, "Gomen nasai, Kenshin. I just wanted to come here to find my mother's chest. Her wedding kimono was stored here for me, according to the letter he left for me before he went off to fight in the Boshin War. He must have known deep down that he would not return." She handed the missive to Kenshin who took it and read the contents.

Kenshin's heart constricted as he felt within the scrawled note the love Kamiya Koshijiro had for his daughter and found himself regretting not meeting the man. He handed it back to Kaoru as she took it, refolded it, and tucked it back in her obi. She then picked up both garments, folded them and closed the chest, her head hanging as she sighed. Kenshin firmly but gently pulled her in another embrace as he spoke tenderly to her.

"I think that you'll look lovely in your mother's wedding kimono, koishii. And I know that both of them would be very proud of you and the way you've turned out." He continued ardently, "I am honored beyond words that you're about to become my wife."

Kaoru wrapped her arms around her rurouni samurai and laced her fingers in his flame colored locks, his words warming her heart and helping the chill of grief dissipate. She pulled away to face him as his violet eyes glowed at her.

"Arigatou, Kenshin anata. I'm grateful to you for everything you've done for me. For protecting and caring for me, for taking away my loneliness. But mostly for loving me." She leaned in and kissed him gently as he moaned softly and responded eagerly.

The kiss deepened as both were drawn into the building passion that pulsated between them, their love and need for each other close to overwhelming them. Kenshin took Kaoru's pretty face in his hands as his mouth drank deeply of her sweetness, his body burning with desire for her.

Kaoru felt as if she were being swept away in a tidal flood of emotion and feelings new and frightening yet exhilarating as well. She broke away breathlessly as Kenshin too was breathing heavily, the waves of yearning nearly making him lose control. He was immediately filled with remorse.

"Forgive me, tenshi. I again lost my head with you and I'm sorry. I was just so worried when you disappeared and when I found you I was so thankful that I demonstrated it in the only way I could. Gomen nasai to you." He lowered his head in shame, his bangs covering his eyes.

Kaoru was again amazed at the paradox that was her Kenshin. A legendary man that once was the most feared assassin in Japan was before her begging her pardon for his unfettered display of the passion he had for her. She reached and brushed his fiery hair out of his eyes, caressing him as she pressed closer to him, laying her smooth cheek against his scarred one, her action granting total forgiveness.

He said huskily, "We should go and let the others know you're safe, that we should."

She nodded as they momentarily broke apart and Kenshin rose to his feet, offering his hand to assist Kaoru. She then leaned and retrieved the wedding garments as he took her elbow and guided her to the door, extinguishing the candle as they both exited and closed the shoji.

Out in the main common area, Misao, Aoshi, Okina and the other Oniwabanshuu were huddled with worry etched on their faces, Okina's in a dark scowl as they conferred about the alleged disappearance of Kaoru. At the sound of the footfalls in the hallway approaching them their eyes widened then smiles of relief broke out on all but Aoshi's countenance as they saw Kenshin guiding Kaoru to their circle.

Misao came forward and tackled Kaoru with an energetic hug. "Kaoru-chan where were you? We all were so worried and Himura was almost frantic."

Kaoru caught her breath as she disentangled herself from the diminutive yet energetic shinobi maid. "Gomen nasai, Misao. I merely went to find my mother's wedding kimono which was put away." She held up the garment in question. "I'm going to my room to hang it up." She glanced at Kenshin who nodded.

"All right, koishii."

"Ohhh! Kirei Kaoru it's so gorgeous. That was your mother's?" Misao asked as she fingered the beautiful dress. Omasu and Ochika came and began to show their approval as the girls all headed for Kaoru's room.

Kenshin watched fondly as his fiancée led the women to her room. Okina and Aoshi flanked him as Okina said, "So she was just in another part of the dojo. And we all thought the worst."

Kenshin apologized, "Forgive me. Since the incident with Enishi, I've been very protective of Kaoru and when she disappeared without saying anything, I became fearful for her safety."

Aoshi replied, "Apologies are not necessary, Battousai. I remember well what happened and your anxiety is understandable."

They were interrupted by a commotion just outside as Yahiko and Sanosuke returned. Yahiko's voice carried as he said fearfully, "Man I just don't get it. Where could busu have gone?" He took in several deep breaths as he had sprinted over from the Akabeko.

Sano's baritone answered, "I don't know but Kenshin's gonna be," but his statement was cut off by the two of them coming into the common area of the dojo and Kenshin's standing right there.

"What am I going to be, Sano?" he asked a curious glint in his eyes.

Sano's own eyes widened as he grinned innocently at his friend, the former hitokiri. "Oh hi Kenshin, I didn't see you there."

"Is there something you wanted to tell me?" Kenshin inquired, one flame brow risen. "You look like you have something on your mind, that you do."

Yahiko began, "We couldn't find Kao," but Sano slapped a hand over his mouth.

He chuckled nervously as he stammered, "We asked at both the clinic and the Akabeko but neither has seen Jou-chan so maybe she just went shopping and will be back soon." He turned toward the hallway leading to Kaoru's bedroom and did a double take.

The discussion was halted by the slender figure of the person that they had just searched high and low for coming into view and stopping by Kenshin's side. He flashed a warm smile of greeting at her and put his arm about her as she gazed quizzically at the other steady boarders at the Kamiya Dojo.

"Sanosuke, Yahiko where have you been, you both look winded," Kaoru observed, as she looked them both up and down. She approached her student and said, "Yahiko, what happened that you're so out of breath?"

"What happened?" Yahiko asked incredulously. "We were all over the area looking for you busu. So where were you, huh?"

Kaoru said, "I was over at the far end of the hall where the unused rooms are. One of them is where my mother's trunk is stored. I went there to get her wedding kimono, I plan to wear it when we get married."

Kenshin nodded as he said, "I located Kaoru in the room so forgive me Yahiko, I should have realized that she was still in the dojo somewhere. My apologies for sending you out to look for her."

The inky haired youth grumbled as he strode off and Sanosuke laughed as he said, "Glad to see you're okay, Jou-chan. Is there any snacks in the kitchen?" He headed in the general direction of the latter as Kenshin and Kaoru shook their heads.

Over near Tokyo Bay, in a seedy section of the capital city, a abandoned temple stood; a mere shadow of its former glory, the grounds unkempt and the buildings in general disrepair. It was vacant save the main building where a beehive of activity was taking place. Inside, several swordsmen stood in formation performing various slashes and moves, while a man dressed completely in black except for the red dragon emblazoned on the left breast watched with great interest.

"Now men, choose a partner to spar with," Hashimoto Etsuyo commanded as the men responded, pairing off to engage in sparring. Hashimoto stood back with arms folded over his barrel chest and observed the matches impassively.

The soft footfalls of tabi covered feet sounded and he turned to greet the woman who joined him, her slender arms linking with his. She addressed him in a slightly husky tone that broadcast a certain intimacy.

"Anata, are you nearly finished?" she asked, a pout on her painted face that showed a countenance whose beauty was marred by an innate bitterness.

Etsuyo scowled at the closest pair of combatants. "Asakura, Umeki you both are weak in your offensives. You need to get more aggressive." He turned to the woman and said a tad irked, "What is it, Hana?"

Maita Hana smirked as she replied, "I thought we could relax. And I have to speak with you about a most urgent matter."

Etsuyo sighed in annoyance. "Very well. Go to my chamber and I'll join you presently." He dismissed her with a wave and she obediently bowed and left.

About a half an hour later Etsuyo strode to the area that he designated his private chamber and entered as Hana bowed and greeted him. She went to him as he took a seat on the waiting futon and began to massage his tense shoulders.

"So," she said softly. "You didn't tell me how the raid on the Akabeko went."

Etsuyo snorted in disgust. "It didn't. We were outnumbered, the Battousai had assistance from Shinomori and the Oniwabanshuu along with his shishou Hiko the master of the Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu. It would have meant our troops would be slaughtered."

He rose and paced as he went on. "The enemy has become quite formidable so I must think of a new way to get to the Battousai. Without him we'll be able to get to slay Yamagata and Kamioka as our operatives convince the foolish Emperor that the old ways are the best. Then the better Japan can arise."

Hana smiled a sly feline grin as she purred, "I know the perfect way to get to the Battousai. He has one weakness and that is his woman, Kamiya Kaoru."

Etsuyo nodded as he bade her. "Go on."

She continued, "They are to be married and the best way to lure him into an ambush is to use his weakness. I can assist you but we must move carefully. First, as a member of Itikaku Mizu I will get close to Kamiya and find out the date and place for the wedding. Then, we can plan accordingly."

Etsuyo grinned evilly as he nodded. "I will depend on you, Hana. Do not fail me."

She went to him and wrapped her arms about him, plastering herself to his burly frame. "Have I ever, anata?" she asked in a sultry voice before she kissed him deeply.

NEXT-A LAMB TO THE SLAUGHTER