A/N: Well, here we go!
Disclaimer: I do not own Rurouni Kenshin.
Chapter 3 Under the Blade of a Katana
June 27 of 1864: Tokio's family, exception of Seinosuke, moved to Kyoto.
It has been at least five months since I last saw Souji-kun, but we maintained regular contact with each other by letter and Seinosuke also writes often. Here is a recent letter from Souji-kun:
Dear To-chan,
I hope you and your family is doing well. I heard from your brother that you have relocated in Kyoto. I have also heard that little Tami-chan is ill. I pray for her health and yours also. I am quite fine to answer your question in the last letter and thank you for the wonderful birthday gift. I have told my friend about you and he said that he would be honored to meet you one day.
Seinosuke was mildly wounded, merely a small cut on his arm. It did not do any harm nor did it get infected. He took care of it himself very well due to your excellent training as he informed me.
All the Shinsengumi men miss your cooking. They often complain about that and the ladies here are jealous of your talent. Make sure you stay safe and I wish you well in your youthful days. I'm afraid I'm getting quite old...Ja ne, my friend. I await your next letter.
Your devoted friend,
Okita Souji
I smile at his letters, feeling a content emotion inside of me. Seinosuke did not tell me of the small injury that Souji-kun mentioned. Perhaps he was too worried. I was glad he took care of it well. His letter came a few days later after my response to Souji-kun's. Seinosuke was highly concerned about Tami's condition. Sickness these days were dangerous if not treated correctly and many died from them.
Taking the brush, I carefully dipped the ink in it and started to write. Half-way through, my hand cramped up, taking me by surprise. I dropped the brush with a clutter and the ink splattered all over me and the parchment. My kimono was completely ruined. Mentally kicking myself at my clumsiness, I hurried to wipe away the ink on the table. My hand still hurt painfully at the constant muscle contractions. I held it against my chest, trying to calm myself and massage the ache away. At one time, it was almost unbearable. I did not know how to treat this kind of things.
Tami had come in and sensed something wrong and went to get her father. He came in and saw me doubled over the low table. Daifu-san rushed to my side and lifted my face to meet his.
After the agony had passed, I explained to him what had happened. He did not know what these were either. I assured them that I was fine and announced that it was time the Tami should take her cold medicine. She screwed up her face at the mention of that and huffed with her tiny arms across her chest.
After I had fed her the medicine, with difficulty of course; she wouldn't keep still, we went out to get things from the market. I was in need for some needles to sew a new kimono for myself and Tami then to mend a rip in my father's gi. Tami was feeling better and wanted to go with me. I supposed a breath of fresh air wouldn't hurt.
Tami skipped along happily, holding my hand tightly as we passed by the markets and stands. We walked passed two men who were in a deep conversation with each other. I caught a sentence that made me stop dead with shock.
"The Shinsengumi have arrived here in Kyoto."
::Back at home::
I tucked Tami into bed and went into my own. I changed into my sleeping yukata and lay on my futon unable to sleep. The Shinsengumi were here. Why hadn't anyone told me about this? My heart almost leapt out of my chest. The thought of being able to see Seinosuke and Souji-kun was making me excited. I couldn't wait to see them. I had to find out where they were staying. At any cost, I had to know where they were quartered.
A rush of wind swept through my open window. I crawled out from under the blankets and knelt by the window, letting the yukata slip off my shoulder. I rested my head against the wall, letting my eyes wander outside. The stars dotted the heavens and I wondered if somehow they were all connected by an invisible line.
"Okita Souji..." I whispered his name, allowing the pleasant tingling feeling go down my spine whenever I thought of him. His childish face smiled at me in my daydreams and his voice spoke to me in my soul.
I snapped out of it. What was I thinking? A proper lady did not think such thoughts. It is foolish and only a smitten, foolish girl would dream over a man. No, a proper lady would wait to be courted by someone. I splashed cool water on my face from my washing basin and dried off.
I wanted to find Seinosuke. I desperately wanted to know where they were. Even then, I was angry at Souji-kun for not informing me that they had arrived in Kyoto. But, to merely see him for one second would reassure me that all was well. All was well...
I let out a sigh of frustration as I lay down to sleep once more. Tomorrow, I vowed, tomorrow I would find them.
In the morning, Tami woke me up as she squealed that Matsudaira Kaitou was here. I dressed as quickly as possible and went out to meet him. My father was already in deep conversation with him. The handsome young man looked up at me with his innocent brown eyes and smiled.
"Good morning, Tokio. I assume you slept well?" He asked in his gentleman-like manner.
"Yes I did, thank you. Kaitou, would you like to join us for breakfast? Is that alright with you, Daifu-san?"
My father nodded and I quickly went about preparing food. All the while, I could feel his burning gaze on my back. I planned to ask him about the location of the Shinsengumi for he was part of it himself. The organization relied on him and his father to carefully keep track of the Ishin shishi. Their number one hitokiri was killing off the members of the Shinsengumi as easily as killing a defenseless rabbit. Kaitou kept spies around the headquarters of the Ishin shishi to know their every move. So far, he had been most unsuccessful at this for they did not know the actual identity of this killer. Matsudaira-sama was worried over this matter greatly, for the deep fear of losing his precious spies.
After we had eaten, Kaitou led me by the arm outside with permission from my father to take a walk. He granted it. We spoke of the old days when we were naught but children. The massive tree that he helped me climb was still in Tokyo and the pond where he taught me how to fish for the little tadpoles was still behind his house. The little doll he made for me, I still kept and the ribbon that I gave him was used to tie his hair up in a ponytail. He was a dear friend and perhaps my only friend as I grew up, being the outcast of the girls in my neighborhood. I did not mind, having Kaitou as my friend, we used to do everything together. But our friendship changed into a more formal one as he recognized me for a young lady and I recognized him for an accomplished swordsman. He never called me Toki or a "daddy's girl," but just as Tokio. Soon, he left for the Shinsengumi and never wrote to me like I had to him. My letters always went unanswered and I left him alone after that.
When he came back home back a few years ago, his attitude towards me had changed and mine to him. His face was invisibly scarred with the dark images that flooded his mind and his soul was cut by the unseen sword of loneliness as he went further down his path of war which I tried to hard to change.
Now, he was merely an acquaintance of mine and I knew him no further. He had changed too much in so little time that I did not know what happened to him. Still so close, yet so far apart. So we walked through the markets, reminding ourselves how things used to be and presently was no more.
"My father spoke to me about your disagreement to our marriage." He said softly. I looked up and nodded.
"Yes, I am sorry, Kaitou."
He shook his head but his impassive expression on his face did not change. "There is nothing to be sorry about, Tokio. I understand your decision. Mayhap I would have made the same choice as you. I realize that I have changed perhaps too much for you liking and you feel uncomfortable being with me. You cannot blame me, Tokio, the war has changed me drastically and you also. We are not the same people as we used to be; the naïve little children that ran around playing hide-and-seek. Like a river separating into a fork, we too have become like that. We once were one then we went on to separate paths, making different twists and turns in our journeys. But sometimes, change is for the better and I am glad that you have made the decision of not marrying me," I was about to interrupt but he continued on, "What I do is dangerous and I do not think I will be ready to put anyone I care about into danger, especially you."
Kaitou fell silent and I pondered on his words. He had grown considerably wiser and his words betrayed that. It was actually very scary to think that he had altered this much in a few years.
I could tell he was feeling discomfort so I suggested that we head back to the house. He agreed and we changed course. I was hesitating to ask him my urgent question and my mind screamed at me to ask. Composing myself in the fullest manner, I inquired Kaitou, "Do you know of the Shinsengumi's headquarters?"
Something his eyes flashed as he looked at me with a frown that now graced his face. "Tokio, you do not know of what you speak." He turned from me. I would not quit.
I grabbed his arm. "You must tell me, Kaitou. Please, I need to see Seinosuke. I have to make sure that he is alright."
Once again he glared at me then at my hand in which I so boldly lay upon his arm. "I cannot tell you. That is confidential."
I started to grow angry. "You do not understand, Kaitou. He is my brother and your friend. How—"
He wrenched away his arm from me and faced me threateningly. "I have already told you that this kind of question I can't answer. Your brother is safe, I can assure you that."
Hot tears pooled into my eyes, but I did not give. I had to see my brother and Souji-kun at any cost! "I shall find my own way then, Kaitou. I bid you good day."
Matsudaira Kaitou did not even glance back at me once as he walked away. In a huff, I went to collect some information that could provide useful to my search. I stayed near men to see if I could decipher anything about the Shinsengumi whereabouts and the gossip of the neighborhood women proved to be quite valuable also.
By nightfall, I found enough information to find Seinosuke and Souji- kun. I felt guilty for not being back at home to take care of my family, but the urge to find them was greater than life itself. I could not explain this feeling but I knew it would be relieved as soon as I got to them.
I walked down a narrow alley then turned right onto the street. It was getting cool as the sun disappeared and the moon came out. I strode quickly and quietly as I came to a remote place far from my home. I suppressed a shiver and still went further.
In the distance, a large building was looming mysteriously in the gleam of the moonlight. This had to be it. Soon, I would be able to see Seinosuke and Souji-kun. My heart was pumping twice as fast as I grew more and more excited. The darkness was getting heavier and I couldn't see much save for the dim light of the moon.
"Hey, you there, stop! In the name of the Shinsengumi, stop your running and we will give you a quick death!"
Yes, this had confirmed my suspicions. The soldiers were Shinsengumi. I stopped and started to walk towards them. They would help me get to my brother. Two guards ran quickly and drew their swords, blades gleaming dangerously. They halted when they saw me. They exchanged glances that I was not able to see in the dark.
"Well, well, well, who is this young lady?" One of them asked and I chose to ignore the sarcasm in his voice.
"Sir, I am the sister of Takagi Seinosuke. Do you know him?" I inquired carefully.
The other spoke up. "No, but I'd like to know you, pretty girl." He said in a husky voice, taking a step towards me. I stepped back. I was in dangerous territory and I would have to play smart in order to evade the two guards.
But in the dark, there was nothing I could do. They knew more than I did and they knew the grounds. I was at a high disadvantage. So I did the only thing that occurred to me at that time. I ran.
I ran as fast as my kimono would allow me and heard them close behind me. A hand flew out and grabbed my arm and I twisted around and slammed the heel of my hand against his nose. I heard a grunt of pain and he released me, almost making me trip over my feet, but I regained balanced and ran harder. My sandals made a clacking sound against the ground and I had no sense of direction so far.
I felt another hand grab my wrist and he yanked me to face him. I tried the same maneuver on him, but he easily blocked it and drew his katana. He swiped at me but I dodged yet the tip grazed my eyebrow, a prick of pain was all I felt. Was this the way my life would end? I am sorry, Mother, I have failed you. I watched the blade fall mercilessly but then a blur came between me and the blade with a sword of its own.
Okita Souji slammed his opponent's katana down on the ground, swiftly disarming him. He hit the guard on his chest with the butt end of the sword, knocking the wind out of him. "Do not dare disgrace the Shinsengumi further!" He shouted.
"What is the meaning of this?" A cool voice asked in the dark. I abruptly turned to face the sound and my eyes met a pair of beautiful, amber orbs framed by a cold, angular face. I uttered a small gasp and Souji- kun gently took my shoulders to shake me back into reality.
"Tokio-kun, are you all right? Did they hurt you at all?" He asked me, while I shook my head no and assured him that I was alright. He took a careful look at my cut and gently touched it with his fingertip. A white handkerchief was used to wipe away the blood. He promised to get it medicated once we were inside.
The tall, wolf-like man strode forward and stopped a few feet away from the two troublemakers. He eyed them almost murderously and the men seemed to cringe. "I will report this to Kondo. Maybe he can find a fitting punishment for you all. Okita, is the girl alright?" He asked calmly. Souji- kun smiled back into his cheerful nature and nodded.
"Hai, Saitou-san, To-chan is quite fine, just a little shaken up it seems."
The man called Saitou looked at me and made a small bow to me then barked to the two guards to go back to the quarters.
Souji-kun was in the process of scolding me like a father. "Tokio- kun, you should know better than to come looking for Seinosuke on your on! And at night of all times in the world! What could you have been thinking? You could have been killed tonight if Saitou-kun hadn't heard something outside. And what of Tami and your father? Did you leave them back at home?" He spent more of his breath muttering about the headquarters not being kept confidential enough.
"I wanted...to see you, Souji-kun." I whispered, almost wishing I had not come at all. He halted and looked at me in shock.
"A-ah...To-chan, but you still should have written to me first."
Saitou-san raised an eyebrow. "Okita, she is on...affectionate grounds with you?"
The smaller man stopped in mid-sentence and stared at him openmouthed. "N-nani? Affectionate grounds as in lover?"
He nodded and Souji-kun broke out in sweat at a sudden rush of panic. His eyes flickered to me then at the ground then at Saitou-san. "W-well, you see, we met months back when Takagi Seinosuke joined the Shinsengumi. I told you of her, didn't I?"
Saitou-san grimly looked at him with his brow still raised. "Takagi? He was assigned to me two months ago. She is of what terms with him?"
Okita-kun grinned. "She is his elder sister."
The man's face seemed to flicker just slightly with interest. "Ah, soka, he speaks of his mother-like figure all the time. I did not know that his sister was so...young."
I bowed to him courteously and spoke, "Thank you for your interference with my...ordeal before, sir. I am Takagi Tokio and I would like to see Seinosuke if you'd allow me."
His eyes narrowed at me and looked me over to be sure I was not a spy. He gazed quickly at Souji-kun and turned on his heel. "Follow if that is what you wish. Okita, report to Kondo about the lady guest amongst us."
After talking with me quietly, he left in another direction than where Saitou-san was leading me. We walked in absolute silence and I think he preferred it that way; I could tell he wasn't know much for his words, only his frightening presence. I meekly followed the tall man through many corridors and I could here deep laughter of the Shinsengumi men. He slid open the shoji to the loudest room and stepped in for a second. The room hushed down immediately as he went inside and he asked for Seinosuke.
Another tall, young man stepped out with him and I could hardly recognize him if it wasn't for the same boyish look on his face. I couldn't believe that he was the little brother that I let go a few months ago. He had grown so much! His eyes twinkled at the ridiculous expression of astonishment on my face.
I felt my face break out into a wide smile. He stepped forward to take me gently by the arm and walk me to an empty room. We sat across from each other as a land lady laid down a pot of tea and two cups.
"Seinosuke, how much you've grown. Your own sister could barely recognize you." I teased him. He laughed his voice deep and more mature than before.
"Ne-san, where did you get that cut?" He asked, leaning over to touch it lightly.
"This? It is a long story. I rather not explain it. Perhaps later when we have more time. Now back to you." I said quickly and changed to subject.
He looked at me in an odd way but he replied, "Yes, Ne-san, I've changed. This war...it isn't as what it seems. Many honorable men die everyday by the sword of their fellow people...I will not deny that I have killed more people than I can keep track of. The first time I did, it was one of the most horrifying moments I ever experienced. Ne-san, I hope you can forgive me of these sins. It is all I ask for." He bowed his head in silence.
I got up and knelt beside him. I took his head and cradled him against my chest, his head supporting my chin. "Seinosuke, I'm afraid that I knew you would change this way. Maybe the way you feel now is because of me, for I gave you the permission to join the war. For this, I hope you can forgive me. You are a soldier; an honorable swordsman does not regret his decisions. Now enough of this kind of talk, let's go back to when you used to wet your sheets until you were eight."
"Ne-san! Don't mention that in front of my friends, ne? They're going to laugh at me until the end of this war! Please, don't tell! Not a word from you, alright?" He begged. I giggled and ruffled his hair.
"Hai, hai," I sighed mockingly, "and Tami-chan wonders how you are doing. She likes trying to read your letters."
His lips graced a sad smile as his eyes seemed almost teary. "Tami is well, ne-san? You wrote she was sick."
"She is getting better everyday. A fighter, she is, just like her father and brother. You should hear the way she swears, or at least tries to swear. It's terribly cute, although I am not implying that I am proud of something like that."
He clicked his tongue and frowned. "I should have never taught her anything like that. Her future husband won't like a wife that swears. My, my, what have I done?"
We laughed and he stood up. "Come, ne-san, why don't I let the men get to know you?"
I held him back. "Seinosuke, you know it is improper for a lady to be introduced so randomly to other men."
He seemed crestfallen for a split second before he nodded in understanding. "Hai, ne-san, if that's what you wish."
The door slid open and Saitou-san along with Souji-kun walked in. The smaller man beamed at me and turned to Seinosuke. "Takagi-kun, I'm afraid that I need to speak with you. Afterwards, I would like to tend to that cut on your face."
He looked surprised but followed him out the door. Saitou-san calmly stood with his back resting against the wall. He took out a cigarette but then shot a look at me with his golden eyes and pocketed it again. There was an awkward silence between us in the room and I spotted the tea still untouched. I knelt and poured tea into the two cups.
"Saitou-san, would you like some tea while we are waiting?"
He looked at me in surprise as if he never would have expected me to say anything of the sort, and this look of surprise was a raise of his thin eyebrow. "Ah, that would be fine."
I passed him the tea from him to drink and I sipped some myself. I watched his every move with my eyes; the way his adjusted his katana every so often, the same direction his eyes darted to when a noise was heard, and the shifting his body, in the very slightest, towards the door. Yes, he was a very paranoid man, never trusting the silence in the room, as he waited for his companion's return. But I had to admit that he was good; I could almost see how gracefully his attention moved from noise to noise, analyzing every bit of the object of his interest. This time, his interest was me.
::Author's notes:: Saitou Hajime finally met Tokio. Whew, this was a longer chapter than the others, but I hope you don't mind that... Does Tokio have a crush on Okita?? The more important question is, does Okita like Tokio? I doubt I can update very soon. There are so much tests to take for some reason and finals are coming up...--;;
Thank you to...
DustyFall: I'm glad you like it! It means a lot. I've read your stories too, and I'm honored that a great author reviewed my story. And the time changes...it's not going go so fast anymore. I hope to have different POV's of the characters.
JadeGoddess: ^^ Hai, he missed out on the soba...
Cosmiccastway: I hope this chapter wasn't so sad... ^^;;
Another-Bad-Author: I hope I cleared up the whole, Seinosuke and Sanosuke.
::Historical notes:: It is said that Tokio did move from Tokyo due to political issues.
::Character notes:: Okita Souji- I think little Souji is too cute...almost everyone refers to him as Okita and I figure it started from Saitou, but Souji is his first name.
Saitou Hajime- Yes, the man himself has arrived...Don't you just love his eyes?? ^^
Matsudaira Kaitou- He is a character that I made up to make the story flow better and make it kind of interesting. I doubt he will be mentioned a lot. But his father did exist.
Disclaimer: I do not own Rurouni Kenshin.
Chapter 3 Under the Blade of a Katana
June 27 of 1864: Tokio's family, exception of Seinosuke, moved to Kyoto.
It has been at least five months since I last saw Souji-kun, but we maintained regular contact with each other by letter and Seinosuke also writes often. Here is a recent letter from Souji-kun:
Dear To-chan,
I hope you and your family is doing well. I heard from your brother that you have relocated in Kyoto. I have also heard that little Tami-chan is ill. I pray for her health and yours also. I am quite fine to answer your question in the last letter and thank you for the wonderful birthday gift. I have told my friend about you and he said that he would be honored to meet you one day.
Seinosuke was mildly wounded, merely a small cut on his arm. It did not do any harm nor did it get infected. He took care of it himself very well due to your excellent training as he informed me.
All the Shinsengumi men miss your cooking. They often complain about that and the ladies here are jealous of your talent. Make sure you stay safe and I wish you well in your youthful days. I'm afraid I'm getting quite old...Ja ne, my friend. I await your next letter.
Your devoted friend,
Okita Souji
I smile at his letters, feeling a content emotion inside of me. Seinosuke did not tell me of the small injury that Souji-kun mentioned. Perhaps he was too worried. I was glad he took care of it well. His letter came a few days later after my response to Souji-kun's. Seinosuke was highly concerned about Tami's condition. Sickness these days were dangerous if not treated correctly and many died from them.
Taking the brush, I carefully dipped the ink in it and started to write. Half-way through, my hand cramped up, taking me by surprise. I dropped the brush with a clutter and the ink splattered all over me and the parchment. My kimono was completely ruined. Mentally kicking myself at my clumsiness, I hurried to wipe away the ink on the table. My hand still hurt painfully at the constant muscle contractions. I held it against my chest, trying to calm myself and massage the ache away. At one time, it was almost unbearable. I did not know how to treat this kind of things.
Tami had come in and sensed something wrong and went to get her father. He came in and saw me doubled over the low table. Daifu-san rushed to my side and lifted my face to meet his.
After the agony had passed, I explained to him what had happened. He did not know what these were either. I assured them that I was fine and announced that it was time the Tami should take her cold medicine. She screwed up her face at the mention of that and huffed with her tiny arms across her chest.
After I had fed her the medicine, with difficulty of course; she wouldn't keep still, we went out to get things from the market. I was in need for some needles to sew a new kimono for myself and Tami then to mend a rip in my father's gi. Tami was feeling better and wanted to go with me. I supposed a breath of fresh air wouldn't hurt.
Tami skipped along happily, holding my hand tightly as we passed by the markets and stands. We walked passed two men who were in a deep conversation with each other. I caught a sentence that made me stop dead with shock.
"The Shinsengumi have arrived here in Kyoto."
::Back at home::
I tucked Tami into bed and went into my own. I changed into my sleeping yukata and lay on my futon unable to sleep. The Shinsengumi were here. Why hadn't anyone told me about this? My heart almost leapt out of my chest. The thought of being able to see Seinosuke and Souji-kun was making me excited. I couldn't wait to see them. I had to find out where they were staying. At any cost, I had to know where they were quartered.
A rush of wind swept through my open window. I crawled out from under the blankets and knelt by the window, letting the yukata slip off my shoulder. I rested my head against the wall, letting my eyes wander outside. The stars dotted the heavens and I wondered if somehow they were all connected by an invisible line.
"Okita Souji..." I whispered his name, allowing the pleasant tingling feeling go down my spine whenever I thought of him. His childish face smiled at me in my daydreams and his voice spoke to me in my soul.
I snapped out of it. What was I thinking? A proper lady did not think such thoughts. It is foolish and only a smitten, foolish girl would dream over a man. No, a proper lady would wait to be courted by someone. I splashed cool water on my face from my washing basin and dried off.
I wanted to find Seinosuke. I desperately wanted to know where they were. Even then, I was angry at Souji-kun for not informing me that they had arrived in Kyoto. But, to merely see him for one second would reassure me that all was well. All was well...
I let out a sigh of frustration as I lay down to sleep once more. Tomorrow, I vowed, tomorrow I would find them.
In the morning, Tami woke me up as she squealed that Matsudaira Kaitou was here. I dressed as quickly as possible and went out to meet him. My father was already in deep conversation with him. The handsome young man looked up at me with his innocent brown eyes and smiled.
"Good morning, Tokio. I assume you slept well?" He asked in his gentleman-like manner.
"Yes I did, thank you. Kaitou, would you like to join us for breakfast? Is that alright with you, Daifu-san?"
My father nodded and I quickly went about preparing food. All the while, I could feel his burning gaze on my back. I planned to ask him about the location of the Shinsengumi for he was part of it himself. The organization relied on him and his father to carefully keep track of the Ishin shishi. Their number one hitokiri was killing off the members of the Shinsengumi as easily as killing a defenseless rabbit. Kaitou kept spies around the headquarters of the Ishin shishi to know their every move. So far, he had been most unsuccessful at this for they did not know the actual identity of this killer. Matsudaira-sama was worried over this matter greatly, for the deep fear of losing his precious spies.
After we had eaten, Kaitou led me by the arm outside with permission from my father to take a walk. He granted it. We spoke of the old days when we were naught but children. The massive tree that he helped me climb was still in Tokyo and the pond where he taught me how to fish for the little tadpoles was still behind his house. The little doll he made for me, I still kept and the ribbon that I gave him was used to tie his hair up in a ponytail. He was a dear friend and perhaps my only friend as I grew up, being the outcast of the girls in my neighborhood. I did not mind, having Kaitou as my friend, we used to do everything together. But our friendship changed into a more formal one as he recognized me for a young lady and I recognized him for an accomplished swordsman. He never called me Toki or a "daddy's girl," but just as Tokio. Soon, he left for the Shinsengumi and never wrote to me like I had to him. My letters always went unanswered and I left him alone after that.
When he came back home back a few years ago, his attitude towards me had changed and mine to him. His face was invisibly scarred with the dark images that flooded his mind and his soul was cut by the unseen sword of loneliness as he went further down his path of war which I tried to hard to change.
Now, he was merely an acquaintance of mine and I knew him no further. He had changed too much in so little time that I did not know what happened to him. Still so close, yet so far apart. So we walked through the markets, reminding ourselves how things used to be and presently was no more.
"My father spoke to me about your disagreement to our marriage." He said softly. I looked up and nodded.
"Yes, I am sorry, Kaitou."
He shook his head but his impassive expression on his face did not change. "There is nothing to be sorry about, Tokio. I understand your decision. Mayhap I would have made the same choice as you. I realize that I have changed perhaps too much for you liking and you feel uncomfortable being with me. You cannot blame me, Tokio, the war has changed me drastically and you also. We are not the same people as we used to be; the naïve little children that ran around playing hide-and-seek. Like a river separating into a fork, we too have become like that. We once were one then we went on to separate paths, making different twists and turns in our journeys. But sometimes, change is for the better and I am glad that you have made the decision of not marrying me," I was about to interrupt but he continued on, "What I do is dangerous and I do not think I will be ready to put anyone I care about into danger, especially you."
Kaitou fell silent and I pondered on his words. He had grown considerably wiser and his words betrayed that. It was actually very scary to think that he had altered this much in a few years.
I could tell he was feeling discomfort so I suggested that we head back to the house. He agreed and we changed course. I was hesitating to ask him my urgent question and my mind screamed at me to ask. Composing myself in the fullest manner, I inquired Kaitou, "Do you know of the Shinsengumi's headquarters?"
Something his eyes flashed as he looked at me with a frown that now graced his face. "Tokio, you do not know of what you speak." He turned from me. I would not quit.
I grabbed his arm. "You must tell me, Kaitou. Please, I need to see Seinosuke. I have to make sure that he is alright."
Once again he glared at me then at my hand in which I so boldly lay upon his arm. "I cannot tell you. That is confidential."
I started to grow angry. "You do not understand, Kaitou. He is my brother and your friend. How—"
He wrenched away his arm from me and faced me threateningly. "I have already told you that this kind of question I can't answer. Your brother is safe, I can assure you that."
Hot tears pooled into my eyes, but I did not give. I had to see my brother and Souji-kun at any cost! "I shall find my own way then, Kaitou. I bid you good day."
Matsudaira Kaitou did not even glance back at me once as he walked away. In a huff, I went to collect some information that could provide useful to my search. I stayed near men to see if I could decipher anything about the Shinsengumi whereabouts and the gossip of the neighborhood women proved to be quite valuable also.
By nightfall, I found enough information to find Seinosuke and Souji- kun. I felt guilty for not being back at home to take care of my family, but the urge to find them was greater than life itself. I could not explain this feeling but I knew it would be relieved as soon as I got to them.
I walked down a narrow alley then turned right onto the street. It was getting cool as the sun disappeared and the moon came out. I strode quickly and quietly as I came to a remote place far from my home. I suppressed a shiver and still went further.
In the distance, a large building was looming mysteriously in the gleam of the moonlight. This had to be it. Soon, I would be able to see Seinosuke and Souji-kun. My heart was pumping twice as fast as I grew more and more excited. The darkness was getting heavier and I couldn't see much save for the dim light of the moon.
"Hey, you there, stop! In the name of the Shinsengumi, stop your running and we will give you a quick death!"
Yes, this had confirmed my suspicions. The soldiers were Shinsengumi. I stopped and started to walk towards them. They would help me get to my brother. Two guards ran quickly and drew their swords, blades gleaming dangerously. They halted when they saw me. They exchanged glances that I was not able to see in the dark.
"Well, well, well, who is this young lady?" One of them asked and I chose to ignore the sarcasm in his voice.
"Sir, I am the sister of Takagi Seinosuke. Do you know him?" I inquired carefully.
The other spoke up. "No, but I'd like to know you, pretty girl." He said in a husky voice, taking a step towards me. I stepped back. I was in dangerous territory and I would have to play smart in order to evade the two guards.
But in the dark, there was nothing I could do. They knew more than I did and they knew the grounds. I was at a high disadvantage. So I did the only thing that occurred to me at that time. I ran.
I ran as fast as my kimono would allow me and heard them close behind me. A hand flew out and grabbed my arm and I twisted around and slammed the heel of my hand against his nose. I heard a grunt of pain and he released me, almost making me trip over my feet, but I regained balanced and ran harder. My sandals made a clacking sound against the ground and I had no sense of direction so far.
I felt another hand grab my wrist and he yanked me to face him. I tried the same maneuver on him, but he easily blocked it and drew his katana. He swiped at me but I dodged yet the tip grazed my eyebrow, a prick of pain was all I felt. Was this the way my life would end? I am sorry, Mother, I have failed you. I watched the blade fall mercilessly but then a blur came between me and the blade with a sword of its own.
Okita Souji slammed his opponent's katana down on the ground, swiftly disarming him. He hit the guard on his chest with the butt end of the sword, knocking the wind out of him. "Do not dare disgrace the Shinsengumi further!" He shouted.
"What is the meaning of this?" A cool voice asked in the dark. I abruptly turned to face the sound and my eyes met a pair of beautiful, amber orbs framed by a cold, angular face. I uttered a small gasp and Souji- kun gently took my shoulders to shake me back into reality.
"Tokio-kun, are you all right? Did they hurt you at all?" He asked me, while I shook my head no and assured him that I was alright. He took a careful look at my cut and gently touched it with his fingertip. A white handkerchief was used to wipe away the blood. He promised to get it medicated once we were inside.
The tall, wolf-like man strode forward and stopped a few feet away from the two troublemakers. He eyed them almost murderously and the men seemed to cringe. "I will report this to Kondo. Maybe he can find a fitting punishment for you all. Okita, is the girl alright?" He asked calmly. Souji- kun smiled back into his cheerful nature and nodded.
"Hai, Saitou-san, To-chan is quite fine, just a little shaken up it seems."
The man called Saitou looked at me and made a small bow to me then barked to the two guards to go back to the quarters.
Souji-kun was in the process of scolding me like a father. "Tokio- kun, you should know better than to come looking for Seinosuke on your on! And at night of all times in the world! What could you have been thinking? You could have been killed tonight if Saitou-kun hadn't heard something outside. And what of Tami and your father? Did you leave them back at home?" He spent more of his breath muttering about the headquarters not being kept confidential enough.
"I wanted...to see you, Souji-kun." I whispered, almost wishing I had not come at all. He halted and looked at me in shock.
"A-ah...To-chan, but you still should have written to me first."
Saitou-san raised an eyebrow. "Okita, she is on...affectionate grounds with you?"
The smaller man stopped in mid-sentence and stared at him openmouthed. "N-nani? Affectionate grounds as in lover?"
He nodded and Souji-kun broke out in sweat at a sudden rush of panic. His eyes flickered to me then at the ground then at Saitou-san. "W-well, you see, we met months back when Takagi Seinosuke joined the Shinsengumi. I told you of her, didn't I?"
Saitou-san grimly looked at him with his brow still raised. "Takagi? He was assigned to me two months ago. She is of what terms with him?"
Okita-kun grinned. "She is his elder sister."
The man's face seemed to flicker just slightly with interest. "Ah, soka, he speaks of his mother-like figure all the time. I did not know that his sister was so...young."
I bowed to him courteously and spoke, "Thank you for your interference with my...ordeal before, sir. I am Takagi Tokio and I would like to see Seinosuke if you'd allow me."
His eyes narrowed at me and looked me over to be sure I was not a spy. He gazed quickly at Souji-kun and turned on his heel. "Follow if that is what you wish. Okita, report to Kondo about the lady guest amongst us."
After talking with me quietly, he left in another direction than where Saitou-san was leading me. We walked in absolute silence and I think he preferred it that way; I could tell he wasn't know much for his words, only his frightening presence. I meekly followed the tall man through many corridors and I could here deep laughter of the Shinsengumi men. He slid open the shoji to the loudest room and stepped in for a second. The room hushed down immediately as he went inside and he asked for Seinosuke.
Another tall, young man stepped out with him and I could hardly recognize him if it wasn't for the same boyish look on his face. I couldn't believe that he was the little brother that I let go a few months ago. He had grown so much! His eyes twinkled at the ridiculous expression of astonishment on my face.
I felt my face break out into a wide smile. He stepped forward to take me gently by the arm and walk me to an empty room. We sat across from each other as a land lady laid down a pot of tea and two cups.
"Seinosuke, how much you've grown. Your own sister could barely recognize you." I teased him. He laughed his voice deep and more mature than before.
"Ne-san, where did you get that cut?" He asked, leaning over to touch it lightly.
"This? It is a long story. I rather not explain it. Perhaps later when we have more time. Now back to you." I said quickly and changed to subject.
He looked at me in an odd way but he replied, "Yes, Ne-san, I've changed. This war...it isn't as what it seems. Many honorable men die everyday by the sword of their fellow people...I will not deny that I have killed more people than I can keep track of. The first time I did, it was one of the most horrifying moments I ever experienced. Ne-san, I hope you can forgive me of these sins. It is all I ask for." He bowed his head in silence.
I got up and knelt beside him. I took his head and cradled him against my chest, his head supporting my chin. "Seinosuke, I'm afraid that I knew you would change this way. Maybe the way you feel now is because of me, for I gave you the permission to join the war. For this, I hope you can forgive me. You are a soldier; an honorable swordsman does not regret his decisions. Now enough of this kind of talk, let's go back to when you used to wet your sheets until you were eight."
"Ne-san! Don't mention that in front of my friends, ne? They're going to laugh at me until the end of this war! Please, don't tell! Not a word from you, alright?" He begged. I giggled and ruffled his hair.
"Hai, hai," I sighed mockingly, "and Tami-chan wonders how you are doing. She likes trying to read your letters."
His lips graced a sad smile as his eyes seemed almost teary. "Tami is well, ne-san? You wrote she was sick."
"She is getting better everyday. A fighter, she is, just like her father and brother. You should hear the way she swears, or at least tries to swear. It's terribly cute, although I am not implying that I am proud of something like that."
He clicked his tongue and frowned. "I should have never taught her anything like that. Her future husband won't like a wife that swears. My, my, what have I done?"
We laughed and he stood up. "Come, ne-san, why don't I let the men get to know you?"
I held him back. "Seinosuke, you know it is improper for a lady to be introduced so randomly to other men."
He seemed crestfallen for a split second before he nodded in understanding. "Hai, ne-san, if that's what you wish."
The door slid open and Saitou-san along with Souji-kun walked in. The smaller man beamed at me and turned to Seinosuke. "Takagi-kun, I'm afraid that I need to speak with you. Afterwards, I would like to tend to that cut on your face."
He looked surprised but followed him out the door. Saitou-san calmly stood with his back resting against the wall. He took out a cigarette but then shot a look at me with his golden eyes and pocketed it again. There was an awkward silence between us in the room and I spotted the tea still untouched. I knelt and poured tea into the two cups.
"Saitou-san, would you like some tea while we are waiting?"
He looked at me in surprise as if he never would have expected me to say anything of the sort, and this look of surprise was a raise of his thin eyebrow. "Ah, that would be fine."
I passed him the tea from him to drink and I sipped some myself. I watched his every move with my eyes; the way his adjusted his katana every so often, the same direction his eyes darted to when a noise was heard, and the shifting his body, in the very slightest, towards the door. Yes, he was a very paranoid man, never trusting the silence in the room, as he waited for his companion's return. But I had to admit that he was good; I could almost see how gracefully his attention moved from noise to noise, analyzing every bit of the object of his interest. This time, his interest was me.
::Author's notes:: Saitou Hajime finally met Tokio. Whew, this was a longer chapter than the others, but I hope you don't mind that... Does Tokio have a crush on Okita?? The more important question is, does Okita like Tokio? I doubt I can update very soon. There are so much tests to take for some reason and finals are coming up...--;;
Thank you to...
DustyFall: I'm glad you like it! It means a lot. I've read your stories too, and I'm honored that a great author reviewed my story. And the time changes...it's not going go so fast anymore. I hope to have different POV's of the characters.
JadeGoddess: ^^ Hai, he missed out on the soba...
Cosmiccastway: I hope this chapter wasn't so sad... ^^;;
Another-Bad-Author: I hope I cleared up the whole, Seinosuke and Sanosuke.
::Historical notes:: It is said that Tokio did move from Tokyo due to political issues.
::Character notes:: Okita Souji- I think little Souji is too cute...almost everyone refers to him as Okita and I figure it started from Saitou, but Souji is his first name.
Saitou Hajime- Yes, the man himself has arrived...Don't you just love his eyes?? ^^
Matsudaira Kaitou- He is a character that I made up to make the story flow better and make it kind of interesting. I doubt he will be mentioned a lot. But his father did exist.