Freedom
Chapter 12
Meeting Yahiko




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Apology and excuse for the late review is posted below in the In my Head' section!

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Saigo ni, warau tame bokura no ima wo kicchiri aruitekou

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So what is your name? Kaoru asked the boy who sat before her. Kenshin sat at one end with Kaoru and the boy on either side.

I'm Myoujin, Yahiko. Who are you? He asked back.

I'm Kamiya, Kaoru. Kaoru told him with a laugh.

Kenshin and Kaoru both watched as Yahiko dug throughout his shirt. What's this? He said as he pulled out some folded papers.

Let me see. Kenshin said with his hand held out. He noticed how Kaoru began to look around the room humming some tune. He slowly unfolded the papers. Miss Kaoru! Miss Megumi gave these for you to read! Kenshin exclaimed.

Oh yeah. I thought I grabbed something else. Kaoru lied as she took the papers from him. Any ways, It's not like I can use it. She told him. Oh and Yahiko, I took the wallet you stole , replaced it with the papers, and gave it back to the woman, before anyone knew the better. Kaoru told him with a wide smile while trying to change the subject.

You did what, Ugly? Yahiko said his voice rising.

Kaoru echoed allowing her smile to fade. You called me ugly?

I'm sure he didn't mean it Miss Kaoru. You should... Kenshin tried to calm her, but she wouldn't listen.

I'm not ugly you...KID! Kaoru yelled.

Kenshin watched the two argue. He started to get dizzy as he turned his gaze back and forth between the two. What have I gotten into. He sighed to himself as he allowed his head to fall to the table before him.

Kaoru screamed and lunged towards him. Kenshin are you okay? She asked scared that he had fallen because he was sick or hurt.

Kenshin quickly rose his head to smile at her. Yes Miss Kaoru. I'm fine.

Kaoru looked at him and then began to hit him with the papers from earlier. You scared me!

I'm sorry Miss Kaoru. Kenshin told her as he tried to shield himself from her blow.

Are you guys ready to order? The waitress asked.

Kenshin looked to Yahiko and then Kaoru. They both wore an unsure look. I think we need sometime. Kenshin watched as she left before turning to the two. What do you guys want. Yahiko just order anything you'd like. Kenshin smiled even more when he saw Yahiko grin before reading everything on the menu. He then turned to Kaoru who didn't look to happy. Miss Kaoru? Do you need help?

Kaoru looked up at Kenshin and nodded. Yes. Could you read the menu for me? She said in a sheepish voice.

Yes of coarse. Kenshin said as he leaned closer to her.

If I didn't know any better, then I would think that Ugly can't read. Yahiko teased.

Kenshin quickly stopped reading and focused on Yahiko. He listened for Kaoru, but he heard nothing. Kenshin then turned his attention to Kaoru.

Both Kenshin and Yahiko stared at her. Tears began to brim her eyes as she stared at the table.

Hey why are you upset? What did I say? Yahiko said in true form. He had no idea why she was so upset.

Kaoru broke off as a tear slid form her eye. As she watched it splatter onto the table, she regained her self. Angrily she wiped the tears away and looked up at Yahiko. I asked Kenshin to read the menu to me because I...can't read! Kaoru told him shortly. She kept staring as Yahiko didn't budge. Also, once again, I'm not ugly...Kid! This started the argument once again.

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The three were walking out of the restaurant when Kaoru stopped and looked at Yahiko. Hey Yahiko. Don't take any food off of other tables. You don't have to any more.

Kenshin turned around and smiled at the two.

Why would I do something like that? That's gross! Yahiko retorted before brushing pass Kaoru and out the door.

Kaoru just stood there stunned until Kenshin came and placed a hand on Kaoru's shoulder. Come Miss Kaoru.

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Once inside the apartment, Kenshin walked over to the phone while Yahiko and Kaoru sat down on the couch. When he was done with the call he hung up the phone and walked into the living room to sit down on the chair. He sat there for awhile unnoticed as Kaoru and Yahiko fought with each other. From what he could piece together, Yahiko had called her fat and then she told him he was weak. He said she was ugly and she told him that he was just a kid.

Kenshin sighed and began to think of the conversation he had just had on the phone.

You sure have made your self a nice little family, Himura. Mr. Toyogawa had told him.

Kenshin looked over to the couch and smiled. Maybe I have done that. Kenshin thought to himself. He watched Kaoru's movements as she fought with Yahiko. Even now she was beautiful. Kenshin forcefully shook his head when he heard his name being called. He focused his eyes to see Kaoru staring at him.

What did he say Kenshin? Kaoru asked again.

Oh. He said that Yahiko will be staying with us. Kenshin said simply.
Here? There's no room. Ugly here takes up most of the space! Yahiko put in.

Shut up you kid! Kaoru snapped and then turned back to Kenshin. He is half right though. There is only one room.

Yea. We talked about that to. He's looking for another place and he'll call tomorrow. Kenshin told her and then turned to Yahiko. And the day after tomorrow, you start school.

Yahiko mused to himself.

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Kaoru was changing in the bedroom and getting ready for bed while Kenshin made sure that Yahiko was okay. Kenshin sat down in the chair and tried to get comfortable when he noticed that Yahiko was restless. Is something wrong?

Yahiko said all to quickly.

So there is something wrong? Kenshin teased.

Yahiko paused, still deciding on if he should ask or not. Why can't Kaoru read?

She was never taught. Kenshin told him simply. She knows what an eight year old would, but she never learned more and didn't use it too much so she can't really.

Sounds as if her gang was rougher on her then mine was on me. Yahiko said.

Kenshin looked at Yahiko and gave a sigh. That might be. She was taken by the worst gang of them all. They are known for their coldness and brutality. Kenshin then gave Yahiko a smile. Now why don't we save all other questions for tomorrow. You have to get ready for your first day, and some new clothes would be a good thing. Kenshin leaned back against his chair and listened as Yahiko settled down to sleep. Miss Kaoru has had a rough time. He thought to himself.

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Where is Kamiya? Susumu asked as he walked into the large room. He had gone into the room where she was kept and was shocked not to find her. Somebody had better have a good answer! He yelled at the men.

She's gone sir. One man told him. When Susumu turned his gaze to him, he began to shake. Sir we followed her like you said to and a police man recognized her and took her back to the station. We couldn't do anything.

Susumu slowly walked over to the man and grabbed his throat. You mean you let her go? The man slowly nodded before Susumu threw him to the floor.

What in the hell do you think you were supposed to do when I told you to follow her? He waited for an answer, but no one even dared. How long has she been gone?

S-since last night. Another man said.

She's been gone a whole day and no one told me? Susumu screamed. He watched as three of his men's heads bobbled up and down before he drew his gun. Get out and find her! His voice was low and rumbled through out the room. Men got up and scurried out of the room, while Susumu walked over to a chair and slumped down. I will not let a Kamiya get the better of me.

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Kenshin woke up with a start. He had an unsettling dream about Kaoru. Everything was quiet though. The only light streamed in through the window, casting shadows everywhere. He looked over to see Yahiko sprawled across the couch, the blanket and his arm hung off. Kenshin slowly got up allowing his muscles to stretch. He then walked over to Yahiko and laid the blanket over him again. Next Kenshin walked out of the room and stood in front of the bedroom door. He stood there for some time, his hand on the door knob. Kenshin then took one deep breath and silently slid the door open. He took sometime walking in the room and closing it, so that he could be as quite as possible. When he turned around, he was shocked at what he found. Miss Kaoru?

Kaoru quickly snapped her gaze to the door where Kenshin stood. She sat in the middle of the bed in the silk blue nightgown and she held the yukata tightly around her body.

Are you having trouble sleeping? Kenshin asked as he walked over to the bed.

Kaoru looked up at him and smiled. She gave him a nod before he sat down. She looked away from him before speaking. I hate this.

Hate what? Kenshin asked.

Kaoru looked him in the eyes. Being scared.

Is there anything I can do to ease your fears? Kenshin asked her.

Kaoru reached out and grabbed his hand. Talk with me.

Kenshin gave a little chuckle. That's easy. Just choose a topic.

What's your family like? She asked him.

So you want to talk about me? Kaoru nodded and Kenshin smiled. I don't have any. Kenshin thought for a moment. Well at least I don't know of them.

What do you mean? She asked.

My mom and dad died. They got really sick, that's about all I know of that. And then the rest of my family like uncles, aunts, and grandparents, well, I've never met them. Kenshin told her.

So this whole time I was feeling sorry for myself, like I'm the only one, and there you are. Kaoru looked away from him again. I'm sorry.

Don't be. You just learned while I've known for a very long time. I was able to adjust to it. Kenshin told her.

You're amazing. She whispered. When she saw Kenshin give her a quizzical look she just smiled. Nothing. I'm just mumbling.

Kenshin got up and walked to the head of the bed. Come on. You need to get some sleep. Kenshin said as he pulled the covers back.

Kaoru smiled as she crawled over the bed and slid under the covers. You sound as if there is something very important. Kaoru then shot back up before Kenshin could pull the covers over her. You're not taking me back to Megumi are you?

Kenshin began to chuckle and sat down. No. I'm going to have Sanosuke take Yahiko shopping tomorrow and I thought that you'd like to go. You can then pick up a new yukata. He said.

Kaoru looked down at the yukata that was draped around her shoulders and smiled shyly. What are you going to do?

I'm going to stay here and pack up so we can be ready to move. Kenshin said as he took a look around the room.

I'll stay and help. Kaoru said.

Kenshin returned his gaze to her. That's okay. You can go with Sano. I don't...

No Kenshin. Kaoru took his hand. I want to help. Kaoru then took her hand away and began to lay down. Any ways, you're giving up your home so that you can protect Yahiko and I. That's just amazing.

Kenshin got up and helped pull the covers over her again. Thank you, I guess. Kenshin walked over to the door and left. He then walked to his chair and sat down, soon to fall asleep.

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Kenshin woke the next morning around seven in the morning. He got up and quietly walked into the bathroom to take a shower. When he was done, instead of changing into some new clothes, he went to fix breakfast. He didn't want to wake Kaoru or Yahiko, but he figured that since they were both on a sleep during the day and work at night schedule, that he'd have to sooner or later.

Along about ten, Kenshin had the food out on the table and went to wake up Yahiko. Once he was up Kenshin went for Kaoru. He hoped she would wake more pleasantly then Yahiko did. Miss Kaoru? He said as he knocked on the door. When he got no answer, Kenshin opened the door and walked in. He then walked over to the bed and gently shook her. He then leaned down and spoke softly to her. Miss Kaoru. Wake up please, so you can eat.

Kaoru's eyes fluttered open to reveal two disoriented sapphire eyes. Good morning Kenshin. She told him with a smile.

Good morning, Miss Kaoru. Could you please come to the table so you can eat? Kenshin asked her. When she nodded Kenshin left the room followed by Kaoru.

Good morning ugly. Yahiko greeted.

Kaoru walked past him and smacked the back of his head only to slam him into his food. With a grin she greeted him back. Good morning, Kid.

Here Miss Kaoru. Kenshin said as he pulled out a seat for her, trying his best to interrupt a fight.

What's that on your back? Yahiko asked Kaoru.

Kaoru thought for a minute and then answered. My blood from when I was attacked.

That's gross. Why wear it? Yahiko asked.

I wore it the whole time I was with Susumu. I guess it reminded me how lucky I was. Kaoru said.

Kenshin looked over at Kaoru and smiled. Is it right of me to guess that my yukata brought you comfort?

Yes. I guess that's exactly it. Kaoru said.

Kenshin smiled once again before picking up his chopsticks. Come now lets eat.

Yahiko rolled his eyes and shook his head before digging into his food.

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Kaoru got up from the couch to answer the door. I'll get it. She yelled to Kenshin who was in the bedroom changing his clothes.

Look through the peep hole first. He yelled back.

Kaoru walked up to the door and squinted one eye shut so she could look through. Hi Sano! She said as she opened the door with a smile.

Good morning Missy. Sano looked around the room until his eyes landed on Yahiko. Is that the kid?

I'm not a kid! My name is Myoujin, Yahiko. He said proudly as he stood up.

Ok well I'm Sagara Sanosuke. Now that that's settled lets hurry up and go. Sano said as he began to turn around. See you later Missy.
Sano was opening the door when he heard something fall to the ground with a faint, , followed by a loud rumbling.

Kaoru looked quickly towards Sano before running towards the bedroom.

Kenshin moaned from under a large pile of boxes and everything else that sat at the top of the closet.

Kaoru quickly ran over to him and began to throw the clutter every which way, trying to uncover Kenshin. Finally after pulling a piece of clothing away Kaoru found Kenshin. Oh my! Are You okay? She asked as she wiped her hand over his face.

I think so. Just a little shookin' up is all. He told her as he tried to sit up.

Sano reached over Kaoru and held out his hand for Kenshin. Let me help you to the couch. He said.

Kenshin took the hand graciously as Kaoru moved away. He winced a little as Sano helped him up. He then found his arm around Sano's neck and found that he was being pulled towards the door.

Kaoru followed with a worried expression on her face and kneeled down in front of him once he sat down on the couch. Are you sure your okay?

I'm just dizzy and feel a little clouded, but I'm sure I'll be fine, Miss Kaoru. Kenshin told her with a smile.

Well then were going to leave. Sano said as he laid a hand on Yahiko's head. Once Kenshin nodded Sano pulled Yahiko out the door and closed it behind him.

Kenshin? What do you think your doing? Kaoru asked as Kenshin tried to get up.

I was going to lock the door. Kenshin told her.

No. I'll do it. She quickly got up before he could argue. After making sure it was locked she turned back to Kenshin. Do you need something?

No. I'm just going to lay down. Kenshin slowly laid down.

Kaoru walked over and pulled the blanket over him. "I'm so sorry. You just take a nap and I'll start packing. She told him.

He smiled graciously and closed his eyes. She's so kind. He thought to himself.

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Translation~
Grip~Inuyasha
In order to smile in the end. we now walk precisely this way.

A.N.~
Woo hoo Chapter 12 is done! Yippee! PLEASE please please review! With my busy schedule I really need the extra boost!

For the Reviewers~

Kenshin-gotenks~ Hehe! Yea I wish more people would review, but who knows! I'm prod with what I got!

Angle1~ So were you right? You have to remember, the smallest amount of hope can make someone do some amazing things!

Tsugoi Kakarlena~ I shall do as you say! Hahaha! Here's the update. Thanks for reviewing!

WaTaShiWaKaWaIIDes~ Okay, I wonder about that to. I put it as an R fic just in case, but I don't know if it should be there. I guess I put it here for the language and then the abuse that Susumu puts Kaoru through. Let me tell you that just a little hint, before this story ends his abuse will get worse. So why don't ya'll tell me! SHOULD THIS STORY BE R RATED? (I'm not yelling I just want everyone to see it!) Thanks again for the review!

Ankara Stark~ Woo Hoo! Fantastic work! Yess! *Begins to jump around* Thank you so much!

yooso~ Well Thank you so much for reviewing.

BillabongBob~ Hmm, I like Inuyasha for many reasons and everyone else has different reasons for liking it. Now I don't know if this was just a rhetorical question or not, but if you want a real answer to that question then I'd be glad to answer it.

Crystal Renee~ Hope you had fun at your dance! I know though! Shame shame shame on me for not updating! You are so lucky though! Look at al those fricking reviews you got! I'm so jealous! Hmm I wonder If everyone would hate me if I gave limits to how many reviews I needed before I updated again? Any ways, Thanks for reading the story!

Inuyasha~ A kiss? You act as if you want one to be in this story. Maybe there will be! If there is one then let me tell you that it is REAL close!

Kawaii Kokkei Tsuita no Neko~Aww you're so kind! Thank you so much!

aglaia102~ You're so welcome! Enjoy!


In my Head~
I am so sorry for this being late! I'm such a bad authoress! I don't have writers block I just have Writers Lack Of Motivation! Instead of updating this story I watched Inuyasha movie one and two with my friend! Yep I am now the proud owner of the Dvd movies one and two of Inuyasha! They are so beautiful! *Starts to tear up* Also I went to a haunted forest with my other friend(i stated to hyperventilate because a clown followed me! I'm so scared of them and mascots! Actually I was in the back so everything followed me, but I was most scared by that.) I can remember telling my friend to get the ugly thing to stop growing in my ear! I also screamed at the top of my lungs when one of the monsters' got in my way that I'd love him forever if he'd just leave me alone!' I'm so weird. Then for sunday my excuse is... blame it all on Crystal Renee! *Screams as she hides her eyes with one hand and points at crystal renee with the other!* Just kidding! Don't really blame her!

Dark Kishi,
PLEASE REVIEW! I LOVE THEM ALL!!!!
There are no bad reviews, only unwritten ones!

We Walk In Shadows
One Step At A Time
Until That Day
We Can Cross The Line.