A/N: I forgot to write the disclaimer in the first chapter. So, no, I don't
own any part of Rurouni Kenshin. Please don't sue.
Also, it's Takagi Seinosuke, not Sagara Sanosuke that is Kenshin's friend. (just to clear that up)
Chapter 2 A Friendly Wolf
December 3 of 1863: Tokio is seventeen
"Seinosuke, can you please get me a batch of cabbage? Seinosuke? Now, where has that child gotten to?" I murmured to myself as I carefully sliced the green onions in thin pieces.
My little sister flounced in, giggling madly as Seinosuke kept telling her jokes that I would not approve of. I sternly gazed at the pair of troublemakers, knowing how close they were in their sibling relationship. Seinosuke sheepishly grinned and scratched his head. Obviously, he knew of my disapproval in the bad influence he had over her. He was a responsible boy, but at times he said things that were not properly heard in the public.
Tami, being only seven, thankfully didn't understand the full meaning of his jokes, but somehow knew enough that they were funny to her. She was greatly attached to my brother and father, who had finally regained his memories about five years ago. We visited Mama's grave often, taking Tami with us so that she could pay her respects to the one who died giving birth to her. I never blamed my sister for my mother's death; it was her time to go then. If I did not do my duties, it would be like disgracing my mother's memory and the things she worked so hard for.
My brother was the playful one of the family, yet working hard in his studies. His swordsmanship practice improved beyond what his instructor expected and we were very proud of him. I had discussed his education issue with my father who also decided that it was best for him to continue his lessons. No word of complaint escaped his lips. Seinosuke and Tami were both the light of my life.
"Ne-chan, what are you thinking about?" Seinosuke asked curiously. I snapped out of my thoughts and gave him a severe look.
"Seinosuke, go get me some cabbage from the market, please. I need it for the miso soup." I said, turning my attention away from the boiling water to hand him some money.
He dashed out into the snow, making a fast break to the market. I smiled as I watched him go. Miso soup was his favorite.
"Look, bubbles, ne-chan!" A voice laughed behind me. I quickly turned around to see Tami dip her finger into the boiling water, thinking that they were bubbles from soap water. A loud squeal of pain echoed in my ears as I rushed to her side, embracing her quickly and carrying her outside. Getting a pack of snow, I molded it around her burnt finger. She cried harder at the pain.
I hushed her, trying to calm her down when my father came into view. Hearing his baby daughter's cries, he dashed towards us. Throwing his winter haori around us, he kissed Tami's finger to get better as he always did whenever she got hurt. The accident-prone child was always getting into messes, too much like her brother. The crying settled down after a while and she was happily sucking on a piece of candied apple. I wrapped the burnt finger with medicated bandages before adding in the ingredients for the soup.
Seinosuke went inside Daifu-san's study to read a book about swordsmanship. He enjoyed various styles of the Japanese art of swords and his main goal was to create a technique that was virtually undefeatable. I encouraged his dreams for I knew how it was like getting them shattered.
Dinner was served quietly as usual and everyone gathered around and ate after my father had taken the first bite. Seinosuke asked for seconds and told me he was starving after practicing kata with his sensei.
After I had fetched him his food, my father looked at me with a serious look on his face. I think I noticed just then how old my father looked. His black hair was now turning into a splash of silver and his face was etched with age and weariness. "Tokio, I have done much thinking, but now I have finally decided that you should find yourself a nice husband. As a young woman, you have your duties to a good husband."
My heart sank. "Daifu-san, I don't understand why I can't stay to take care of Tami and you." I answered him, trying to keep out the hurt and confusion out of my voice. Those words made me feel unwanted, unneeded in my household. Yes, my household. I was selfish then, not wanting to change and turn my back on every thing that I worked so hard to rebuild.
His gaze softened, and he couldn't help but smile. "Aijou, Aijou, you look very worried. I believe in love, my daughter, that is how I enjoyed my marriage to your mother. I will never force you into anything; hurting you like that would tear me into pieces. Until you are ready, you are very welcome to stay. Even if you do not get married, I will always be proud of the way you have grown in stature and nature. Kami-sama has given me the blessing of three wonderful children and I do not take that for granted. Besides, your cooking, Tokio, is probably the best out there." Giving me a broad wink, he finished his rice and I gladly refilled it for him.
"Thank you, Daifu-san. How do you suggest I start looking for a husband that would please you?" I asked teasingly.
He was about to reply when a knock on the door came. I got up and walked to the shoji door and opened it. Matsudaira Katamori-sama stood tall and proud outside with two body guards behind him. I bowed low and let them in.
Katamori-sama was a grand man, leader of the Aizu clan, my father's superior. He was a kind person with a gentle heart. He and my father were close friends and he was like an uncle to me.
"Have you eaten, Matsudaira-san?" My father asked.
The elder man smiled and nodded. "Indeed I have, although I would like some tea. Would that be alright with you, Tokio?"
I beamed and went to fetch him some tea. Coming back with a pot of hot water and my special blend of herbal tea leaves, I served them to him and his guards. The guards were seasoned swordsmen; once in a while, they smiled at me kindly, thanking me repeatedly for the tea.
Listening to the two men talk as I was allowed to for it concerned my little brother. He had gone to Katamori-sama asking if he could join the Shinsengumi. Seinosuke was only fifteen and he already wanted to join the war. A pang of worry shot through my spine as I glanced at Seinosuke. I would let him go; it was true honor to serve one's country but I still worried about him. He was my only brother after all and I was concerned for his safety as all parents should be.
Katamori-sama turned to me. "What do you say, Tokio. You are like Seinosuke's mother and I will give you a say in this manner."
I took a deep breath and slowly let it out. Folding my hands together on my lap, I nodded firmly. "As long as you promise to write often, Seinosuke." My brother grinned from ear to ear and he launched himself at me. He was far taller than I and he almost barreled me over.
"Thank you, ne-chan! I'll write whenever I can, that I promise!" He declared. I embraced him tightly, keeping back the tears and I...smiled.
I felt like I had finally accomplished something good for my family; granting one of many wishes of Seinosuke. I would do anything for him. He was so dear to me. I chuckled along with the men as Seinosuke promised over and over again that he would write everyday as long as he could and that he would notify me of any illnesses he had to ask for help in curing it. Yes, I had made the best decision yet by letting him grow. He was not yet a man, no, not yet, but he was getting very close. These talks of revolution makes a boy mature too quickly.
Katamori-sama then turned to me once more. He smiled, an excited smile, I wagered and he took my hands into his own. "Tokio, you are like a daughter to me and I would be immensely honored if you would be married into the family."
I was struck dumb by his request. Married into his family? An honor, yes, a very great honor, but my wish? No. I knew his son since birth and we were friends, but he had gone to fight in the war with the Shinsengumi. Matsudaira Kaitou was a year above me, talented and a generous young man, and a close friend of mine. He was kind, always looking out for me and Seinosuke, but somehow I couldn't see myself married to Kaitou.
Katamori-sama must have sensed my distress and shook my hands gently. "I know Kaitou is a close friend of yours and that is why I brought up this request, but if you do not want this marriage, it shall not happen."
I smiled and this time I took his hands into mine. "Katamori-sama, you understand me all too well. I am truly torn but as Kaitou's respected friend, I shall have to disagree."
He nodded and smiled sadly at me. Patting my cheek tenderly, he stood and his guards immediately followed suit. "Well, I am glad you approve of Seinosuke's request and I will come tomorrow to pick him up to take him to headquarters. Make sure to have your supplies ready. You will only need your clothes and swords. All else will be provided for you."
I suddenly got up, perhaps too quickly for my own good. I tripped over my own kimono and fell at Katamori-sama's feet. Surprised at this, he helped me up and fixed my obi for me. "Tokio, Tokio, your haste has gotten you off your feet." He chuckled, "What is it?"
"I was just wondering if I could go with him. I wish to make dinner for the men that are about to take in my brother. It is the least I could do, sir." The words seemed to bold as soon as they left my mouth. How dare I ask for anything?
Mildly astonished at this, he raised an eyebrow and a frown creased his face. I quickly looked down in shame and I found the interesting tatami mat had many unceasing patterns woven into it. Katamori-sama let out a chuckle then it grew into series of giggles (giggles?? 0.o). The other guards joined in and they laughed heartily. I felt my face flush with embarrassment and I concentrated my gaze down to the mat.
To my glee and joy, he embraced me like my father always does and then held me at an arm's length then said, "Tokio, the men at the Shinsengumi will dine on your food like a lion on its first prey in six years."
So it was settled that I would prepare dinner for the men tomorrow night and meet the kindest man that I have ever met in my entire life.
::~:: December 4 of 1863
::The next day::
I busily gathered the ingredients that I would need for the feast. Seinosuke ran to the market almost half of the morning for the things I would need. I wanted to fetch them myself, but he insisted, "The impression made the by the dinner will reflect on me because I'm your brother. I can't have them hate me just because my own sister fed them bad food."
I laughed and handed him a list of things I would need and I jotted down the menu of the dinner: Roasted pork meat with red peppers, miso soup, yakisoba, regular soba perhaps with a special mix of spices, freshly cooked fish mainly red cappers, eel marinated in thick soy sauce, steamed vegetables, and rice. I sighed. This would not be very easy.
My father helped load and unload the cart full of my things at the headquarters. It was five hours before the men's dinner time and I had to get working. I never needed help in preparing food so I shooed the ladies out of the kitchen. They welcomed me to the full use of the kitchen and I was grateful.
I quickly got to work and soon had waters boiling in pots, my pork in the fire oven, and the eels sitting in their sauce. Sweat poured down my face as the kitchen grew hot from the fire, but I was actually enjoying this. It was a challenge of sorts, and I pushed myself to accomplish the task I set before myself.
I tasted the seasoning for the soba, adjusting it so that it was just right. Everything was going according to plan. Working speedily, I accomplished my work in just under five hours. Making the final alteration to the fish, I asked one of the ladies to call the men in for dinner. When the announcement was made, I heard a loud roar of satisfaction from the Shinsengumi.
The dining hall was immensely large, enough to fit at least fifty men inside. They informed me that their third squad was away on a mission somewhere in Yamamoto, so the number was reduced to forty some men. The ladies helped me serve them, one at a time and I gave out the rice.
The men sniffed the air and sighed lustily. "Yare, yare, I don't think I've smelled anything so nice." Some of the men agreed, others arguing that their mothers' cooking was nicer. I had to stifle a smile.
Seinosuke grinned at me and I handed him his bowl. "Eat well, Seinosuke." I whispered. He nodded his thanks.
"Hey, you're a new one around here. Why don't you introduce yourself, pretty lady."
I looked up in surprise, not at all used to the way the man talked to me. I bowed and I addressed him politely, "I am Takagi Tokio. I am merely visiting my brother here."
A few murmurs went around. A small boy like Seinosuke got up and bowed to me. "Takagi-san, I am Okita Souji, captain of the first squad. In preparing such a delicious meal for us, on behalf of the Shinsengumi, I welcome you."
I was surprised that a boy like him was a captain. He had a childish grin on his face as he talked to one of the other men beside him. Okita Souji...he looked too kind to be a part of a war party. His black eyes sparkled with genuine warmth and his smile was like Tami's, innocent and pure.
I left the men to discuss their day and went outside where it was cool compared to the hot kitchen. I wrapped myself with a haori and watched the snow fall. It was the first snow of the season. Winter was taking its toll on Japan's soldiers, friend or foe. Many of the poorer regiments stayed in tents outside where they couldn't afford to rent a building to stay in. It was a cold, hard life, with disease and sickness going around camp. I only hoped the Seinosuke would be alright here.
"I'm sure your brother will be fine, Takagi-san." A voice said behind me.
I gasped and turned around to see Okita-san shutting the shoji door. I relaxed and he motioned to a spot next to me. "May I sit down?" I nodded.
He placed himself beside me, a respectable distance away from me, and he smiled at the snow falling down. "It's snowing, Takagi-san, do you know what snow means?" I shook my head, he continued, "To simply put it, snow means a temporary blanket of purity. Even temporary things are better than nothing. I hope you strive to keep your soul clean. Many people here have lost that innocence, I being among those."
'Mature boy, I thought, he couldn't be at least eighteen.' I nodded to his words and I also couldn't help but ask, "How old are you, Okita-san?"
He looked at me in a strange expression, but he laughed, "Twenty, Takagi-san. My birthday was in June. But, I suppose I won't last much longer."
I immediately grew curious. "Why is that, Okita-san?"
He laughed at my formality. "Souji would be fine, Takagi-san."
Taking surprise at this, I smiled and said, "Tokio would be fine, Souji-kun."
He grinned his boyish smile then looked up at the sky. "Well, Tokio- dono, I'm sorry you couldn't meet my friend today. Unfortunately, he missed out on your wonderful feast."
A small smile played on my lips. "I hope Seinosuke will be all right. I shall pray every day for his safety. He has done my family proud by joining the Shinsengumi."
Souji-kun nodded while saying, "Tokio-dono, what would you say if I called to To-chan?"
::Author's Notes:: I know I'm way over my approximate updating date, so gomen...I've been very busy with lacrosse starting in my school. Well, there we go the first step in our love triangle. Okita Souji and Tokio are only a few years apart and they become fast friends. As I said before, Saitou will come in soon, but not yet. I just had to include cute little Okita in my story! I love him! He's too cute!
My other totally untrue guesstamation of updating is probably around April. Last week of March will be spring break, so I'll have plenty of time to write! ^^
::Historical Notes:: Okita Souji-Yes, by now, he should be twenty. Unfortunately, he only lives five more years, but a lot will happen during those years!
The year when Seinosuke joins the Shinsengumi should be correct and I found an excellent site with Okita's bio in it.
::Character Notes:: Seinosuke- Well, I had to make up his personality since I don't know anything about him except his age and a little more than that. But he did join the Shinsengumi at fifteen, very young, a year older than me!
Okita Souji- Ain't he the cutest thing on earth?! 3 but to think he's twenty! He's very gentle and kind towards everyone he meets. It is said that he was often seen around kids. I think he's a lot like Kenshin in some ways.
Tokio- I hope you don't mind her being so quiet. She always seemed like a quiet yet firm person, a person I'd like to be. I'm quite obnoxious and noisy at times. But, she isn't perfect and she will have some flaws along the way.
Also, it's Takagi Seinosuke, not Sagara Sanosuke that is Kenshin's friend. (just to clear that up)
Chapter 2 A Friendly Wolf
December 3 of 1863: Tokio is seventeen
"Seinosuke, can you please get me a batch of cabbage? Seinosuke? Now, where has that child gotten to?" I murmured to myself as I carefully sliced the green onions in thin pieces.
My little sister flounced in, giggling madly as Seinosuke kept telling her jokes that I would not approve of. I sternly gazed at the pair of troublemakers, knowing how close they were in their sibling relationship. Seinosuke sheepishly grinned and scratched his head. Obviously, he knew of my disapproval in the bad influence he had over her. He was a responsible boy, but at times he said things that were not properly heard in the public.
Tami, being only seven, thankfully didn't understand the full meaning of his jokes, but somehow knew enough that they were funny to her. She was greatly attached to my brother and father, who had finally regained his memories about five years ago. We visited Mama's grave often, taking Tami with us so that she could pay her respects to the one who died giving birth to her. I never blamed my sister for my mother's death; it was her time to go then. If I did not do my duties, it would be like disgracing my mother's memory and the things she worked so hard for.
My brother was the playful one of the family, yet working hard in his studies. His swordsmanship practice improved beyond what his instructor expected and we were very proud of him. I had discussed his education issue with my father who also decided that it was best for him to continue his lessons. No word of complaint escaped his lips. Seinosuke and Tami were both the light of my life.
"Ne-chan, what are you thinking about?" Seinosuke asked curiously. I snapped out of my thoughts and gave him a severe look.
"Seinosuke, go get me some cabbage from the market, please. I need it for the miso soup." I said, turning my attention away from the boiling water to hand him some money.
He dashed out into the snow, making a fast break to the market. I smiled as I watched him go. Miso soup was his favorite.
"Look, bubbles, ne-chan!" A voice laughed behind me. I quickly turned around to see Tami dip her finger into the boiling water, thinking that they were bubbles from soap water. A loud squeal of pain echoed in my ears as I rushed to her side, embracing her quickly and carrying her outside. Getting a pack of snow, I molded it around her burnt finger. She cried harder at the pain.
I hushed her, trying to calm her down when my father came into view. Hearing his baby daughter's cries, he dashed towards us. Throwing his winter haori around us, he kissed Tami's finger to get better as he always did whenever she got hurt. The accident-prone child was always getting into messes, too much like her brother. The crying settled down after a while and she was happily sucking on a piece of candied apple. I wrapped the burnt finger with medicated bandages before adding in the ingredients for the soup.
Seinosuke went inside Daifu-san's study to read a book about swordsmanship. He enjoyed various styles of the Japanese art of swords and his main goal was to create a technique that was virtually undefeatable. I encouraged his dreams for I knew how it was like getting them shattered.
Dinner was served quietly as usual and everyone gathered around and ate after my father had taken the first bite. Seinosuke asked for seconds and told me he was starving after practicing kata with his sensei.
After I had fetched him his food, my father looked at me with a serious look on his face. I think I noticed just then how old my father looked. His black hair was now turning into a splash of silver and his face was etched with age and weariness. "Tokio, I have done much thinking, but now I have finally decided that you should find yourself a nice husband. As a young woman, you have your duties to a good husband."
My heart sank. "Daifu-san, I don't understand why I can't stay to take care of Tami and you." I answered him, trying to keep out the hurt and confusion out of my voice. Those words made me feel unwanted, unneeded in my household. Yes, my household. I was selfish then, not wanting to change and turn my back on every thing that I worked so hard to rebuild.
His gaze softened, and he couldn't help but smile. "Aijou, Aijou, you look very worried. I believe in love, my daughter, that is how I enjoyed my marriage to your mother. I will never force you into anything; hurting you like that would tear me into pieces. Until you are ready, you are very welcome to stay. Even if you do not get married, I will always be proud of the way you have grown in stature and nature. Kami-sama has given me the blessing of three wonderful children and I do not take that for granted. Besides, your cooking, Tokio, is probably the best out there." Giving me a broad wink, he finished his rice and I gladly refilled it for him.
"Thank you, Daifu-san. How do you suggest I start looking for a husband that would please you?" I asked teasingly.
He was about to reply when a knock on the door came. I got up and walked to the shoji door and opened it. Matsudaira Katamori-sama stood tall and proud outside with two body guards behind him. I bowed low and let them in.
Katamori-sama was a grand man, leader of the Aizu clan, my father's superior. He was a kind person with a gentle heart. He and my father were close friends and he was like an uncle to me.
"Have you eaten, Matsudaira-san?" My father asked.
The elder man smiled and nodded. "Indeed I have, although I would like some tea. Would that be alright with you, Tokio?"
I beamed and went to fetch him some tea. Coming back with a pot of hot water and my special blend of herbal tea leaves, I served them to him and his guards. The guards were seasoned swordsmen; once in a while, they smiled at me kindly, thanking me repeatedly for the tea.
Listening to the two men talk as I was allowed to for it concerned my little brother. He had gone to Katamori-sama asking if he could join the Shinsengumi. Seinosuke was only fifteen and he already wanted to join the war. A pang of worry shot through my spine as I glanced at Seinosuke. I would let him go; it was true honor to serve one's country but I still worried about him. He was my only brother after all and I was concerned for his safety as all parents should be.
Katamori-sama turned to me. "What do you say, Tokio. You are like Seinosuke's mother and I will give you a say in this manner."
I took a deep breath and slowly let it out. Folding my hands together on my lap, I nodded firmly. "As long as you promise to write often, Seinosuke." My brother grinned from ear to ear and he launched himself at me. He was far taller than I and he almost barreled me over.
"Thank you, ne-chan! I'll write whenever I can, that I promise!" He declared. I embraced him tightly, keeping back the tears and I...smiled.
I felt like I had finally accomplished something good for my family; granting one of many wishes of Seinosuke. I would do anything for him. He was so dear to me. I chuckled along with the men as Seinosuke promised over and over again that he would write everyday as long as he could and that he would notify me of any illnesses he had to ask for help in curing it. Yes, I had made the best decision yet by letting him grow. He was not yet a man, no, not yet, but he was getting very close. These talks of revolution makes a boy mature too quickly.
Katamori-sama then turned to me once more. He smiled, an excited smile, I wagered and he took my hands into his own. "Tokio, you are like a daughter to me and I would be immensely honored if you would be married into the family."
I was struck dumb by his request. Married into his family? An honor, yes, a very great honor, but my wish? No. I knew his son since birth and we were friends, but he had gone to fight in the war with the Shinsengumi. Matsudaira Kaitou was a year above me, talented and a generous young man, and a close friend of mine. He was kind, always looking out for me and Seinosuke, but somehow I couldn't see myself married to Kaitou.
Katamori-sama must have sensed my distress and shook my hands gently. "I know Kaitou is a close friend of yours and that is why I brought up this request, but if you do not want this marriage, it shall not happen."
I smiled and this time I took his hands into mine. "Katamori-sama, you understand me all too well. I am truly torn but as Kaitou's respected friend, I shall have to disagree."
He nodded and smiled sadly at me. Patting my cheek tenderly, he stood and his guards immediately followed suit. "Well, I am glad you approve of Seinosuke's request and I will come tomorrow to pick him up to take him to headquarters. Make sure to have your supplies ready. You will only need your clothes and swords. All else will be provided for you."
I suddenly got up, perhaps too quickly for my own good. I tripped over my own kimono and fell at Katamori-sama's feet. Surprised at this, he helped me up and fixed my obi for me. "Tokio, Tokio, your haste has gotten you off your feet." He chuckled, "What is it?"
"I was just wondering if I could go with him. I wish to make dinner for the men that are about to take in my brother. It is the least I could do, sir." The words seemed to bold as soon as they left my mouth. How dare I ask for anything?
Mildly astonished at this, he raised an eyebrow and a frown creased his face. I quickly looked down in shame and I found the interesting tatami mat had many unceasing patterns woven into it. Katamori-sama let out a chuckle then it grew into series of giggles (giggles?? 0.o). The other guards joined in and they laughed heartily. I felt my face flush with embarrassment and I concentrated my gaze down to the mat.
To my glee and joy, he embraced me like my father always does and then held me at an arm's length then said, "Tokio, the men at the Shinsengumi will dine on your food like a lion on its first prey in six years."
So it was settled that I would prepare dinner for the men tomorrow night and meet the kindest man that I have ever met in my entire life.
::~:: December 4 of 1863
::The next day::
I busily gathered the ingredients that I would need for the feast. Seinosuke ran to the market almost half of the morning for the things I would need. I wanted to fetch them myself, but he insisted, "The impression made the by the dinner will reflect on me because I'm your brother. I can't have them hate me just because my own sister fed them bad food."
I laughed and handed him a list of things I would need and I jotted down the menu of the dinner: Roasted pork meat with red peppers, miso soup, yakisoba, regular soba perhaps with a special mix of spices, freshly cooked fish mainly red cappers, eel marinated in thick soy sauce, steamed vegetables, and rice. I sighed. This would not be very easy.
My father helped load and unload the cart full of my things at the headquarters. It was five hours before the men's dinner time and I had to get working. I never needed help in preparing food so I shooed the ladies out of the kitchen. They welcomed me to the full use of the kitchen and I was grateful.
I quickly got to work and soon had waters boiling in pots, my pork in the fire oven, and the eels sitting in their sauce. Sweat poured down my face as the kitchen grew hot from the fire, but I was actually enjoying this. It was a challenge of sorts, and I pushed myself to accomplish the task I set before myself.
I tasted the seasoning for the soba, adjusting it so that it was just right. Everything was going according to plan. Working speedily, I accomplished my work in just under five hours. Making the final alteration to the fish, I asked one of the ladies to call the men in for dinner. When the announcement was made, I heard a loud roar of satisfaction from the Shinsengumi.
The dining hall was immensely large, enough to fit at least fifty men inside. They informed me that their third squad was away on a mission somewhere in Yamamoto, so the number was reduced to forty some men. The ladies helped me serve them, one at a time and I gave out the rice.
The men sniffed the air and sighed lustily. "Yare, yare, I don't think I've smelled anything so nice." Some of the men agreed, others arguing that their mothers' cooking was nicer. I had to stifle a smile.
Seinosuke grinned at me and I handed him his bowl. "Eat well, Seinosuke." I whispered. He nodded his thanks.
"Hey, you're a new one around here. Why don't you introduce yourself, pretty lady."
I looked up in surprise, not at all used to the way the man talked to me. I bowed and I addressed him politely, "I am Takagi Tokio. I am merely visiting my brother here."
A few murmurs went around. A small boy like Seinosuke got up and bowed to me. "Takagi-san, I am Okita Souji, captain of the first squad. In preparing such a delicious meal for us, on behalf of the Shinsengumi, I welcome you."
I was surprised that a boy like him was a captain. He had a childish grin on his face as he talked to one of the other men beside him. Okita Souji...he looked too kind to be a part of a war party. His black eyes sparkled with genuine warmth and his smile was like Tami's, innocent and pure.
I left the men to discuss their day and went outside where it was cool compared to the hot kitchen. I wrapped myself with a haori and watched the snow fall. It was the first snow of the season. Winter was taking its toll on Japan's soldiers, friend or foe. Many of the poorer regiments stayed in tents outside where they couldn't afford to rent a building to stay in. It was a cold, hard life, with disease and sickness going around camp. I only hoped the Seinosuke would be alright here.
"I'm sure your brother will be fine, Takagi-san." A voice said behind me.
I gasped and turned around to see Okita-san shutting the shoji door. I relaxed and he motioned to a spot next to me. "May I sit down?" I nodded.
He placed himself beside me, a respectable distance away from me, and he smiled at the snow falling down. "It's snowing, Takagi-san, do you know what snow means?" I shook my head, he continued, "To simply put it, snow means a temporary blanket of purity. Even temporary things are better than nothing. I hope you strive to keep your soul clean. Many people here have lost that innocence, I being among those."
'Mature boy, I thought, he couldn't be at least eighteen.' I nodded to his words and I also couldn't help but ask, "How old are you, Okita-san?"
He looked at me in a strange expression, but he laughed, "Twenty, Takagi-san. My birthday was in June. But, I suppose I won't last much longer."
I immediately grew curious. "Why is that, Okita-san?"
He laughed at my formality. "Souji would be fine, Takagi-san."
Taking surprise at this, I smiled and said, "Tokio would be fine, Souji-kun."
He grinned his boyish smile then looked up at the sky. "Well, Tokio- dono, I'm sorry you couldn't meet my friend today. Unfortunately, he missed out on your wonderful feast."
A small smile played on my lips. "I hope Seinosuke will be all right. I shall pray every day for his safety. He has done my family proud by joining the Shinsengumi."
Souji-kun nodded while saying, "Tokio-dono, what would you say if I called to To-chan?"
::Author's Notes:: I know I'm way over my approximate updating date, so gomen...I've been very busy with lacrosse starting in my school. Well, there we go the first step in our love triangle. Okita Souji and Tokio are only a few years apart and they become fast friends. As I said before, Saitou will come in soon, but not yet. I just had to include cute little Okita in my story! I love him! He's too cute!
My other totally untrue guesstamation of updating is probably around April. Last week of March will be spring break, so I'll have plenty of time to write! ^^
::Historical Notes:: Okita Souji-Yes, by now, he should be twenty. Unfortunately, he only lives five more years, but a lot will happen during those years!
The year when Seinosuke joins the Shinsengumi should be correct and I found an excellent site with Okita's bio in it.
::Character Notes:: Seinosuke- Well, I had to make up his personality since I don't know anything about him except his age and a little more than that. But he did join the Shinsengumi at fifteen, very young, a year older than me!
Okita Souji- Ain't he the cutest thing on earth?! 3 but to think he's twenty! He's very gentle and kind towards everyone he meets. It is said that he was often seen around kids. I think he's a lot like Kenshin in some ways.
Tokio- I hope you don't mind her being so quiet. She always seemed like a quiet yet firm person, a person I'd like to be. I'm quite obnoxious and noisy at times. But, she isn't perfect and she will have some flaws along the way.