Kamiya Dojo Insomniacs Chapter 7
Mysterious Darkness!-
The other side of Juno's Shadow
Maybe I'm cursed or something. Because writer's block once again rears its ugly head. But I have decided that this chapter in spite of its usual comic tone will plunge into darkness for a time, and will be longer than usual. and I'm gonna change this to a general/humor/supernatural fic.
Murray the talking skull: Yes. I will now carry out my diabolical plan to rule this pathetic world! MWAHAHAHHAHA!!
Ravenf6: Murray? What the heck are you doing here? You're supposed to be in the Monkey Island section!
Murray: Silence! I came here from the bowels of hell to take over this fic! I will now cast you into the very crucible of horror!!
Ravenf6: ... and how do you plan to do that? Chew my ears off?
Murray: I'll.. Uhhh. Could you pick me up so I can bite your nose?
Ravenf6: No way! Unlike you, I can harness unfathomable power. And right now, I'd feed you to feral dogs than sooner look at you.
Murray: Whoa, take it easy! Just thought I'd ask. Go ahead and get on with this silly story. I've got some evil plotting to do..
Ravenf6: Whatever, Murray: I have to say the stupid disclaimer again, thanks to you!
Disclaimer: I don't own Ruroni Kenshin or its characters. Murray and the Monkey Island series belongs to LucasArts, not me. But Juno is mine. So don't get any funny ideas about stealing him.
Juno: One question, why is this chapter so dark?
Ravenf6: You'll see.on to the fic!!!
Chapter 7: The other side of the mirror
Kenshin's lot had not improved at all as his nervous system was getting a serious work out as Karou and Megumi continued their tug-of-war. Between Kaoru and Megumi's shouting, he tried vainly to pour oil over troubled waters
"OWW!! Could you two please find a way to settle this without involving bodily pain?" The human rope ruroni asked his tormenters.
Kaoru and Megumi mellowed out slowly, their eyes gentle towards Kenshin. The latter felt relieved that they stopped tugging on him, but that melted away with a unanimous shout of "YOU STAY OUT OF THIS, KENSHIN!!!" and resumed pulling on their red haired human rope.
Yahiko and Sano made a mad dash for either of the two rabid women and tried to pry them apart. This wasn't without complaint:
Kaoru: "!! Let me go, Yahiko! This is between me and Megumi'
Yahiko: "But, Kaoru. You'll rip Kenshin's arms off!"
Kaoru" "I don't care, I'm not gonna let Megumi have her way!"
Sano: "You're both gonna have to stop Missy, I don't think Kenshin will appreciate losing a limb."
Megumi: "If you don't let go of me Sano, I'll give more to worry about than losing a limb!
Kenshin: If you two are going to argue over me, could you please let me- OOUCH!!!
The only people uninvolved in the pulling and shouting were Juno and Hiko. Both the bystanders looked at each other and then at the fracas.
"It's hard to believe isn't it?" Hiko Began. " The most feared man of the Revolution, and yet he can't even handle a pair of wild women."
Juno sighed at the scenario. "I've seen this bit time and time again, Hiko. I still have a hard time getting used to it. Hundreds of years from now, people will see this and laugh."
Hiko raised an eyebrow. "Laugh? What makes you so certain they will even know about this?"
The fortuneteller opened a window to observe the sunset, a smile on his shrouded face. "Fate has mysterious ways of preserving the past.. the present. and the future.."
Hiko chuckled under his breath. "I think you need a vacation, kid."
"By the time we are dust in our graves, thousands of people will know your names." Juno replied. "Maybe more than we can ever count."
"And what of you?" Hiko asked. "Surely your magic can't extend the thread of life."
Juno chuckled. "There are more things on Heaven and Earth, Hiko, than are dreamt of in your philosophy."
A small nightingale found its way to the open window, it perched itself on Juno's shoulder and pecked at his hood. Juno took the bird carefully in his hand and noticed a small parchment tied to its leg. Feeling curious, Hiko moved in for a closer inspection. "Messenger bird? You don't see too many out here."
Juno read the parchment and grunted approvingly. Then he turned his attention to the battle nearby. " Hey guys will you knock it off over there?"
Almost at once the fighting stopped instantly. Kenshin took to a safe distance before examining the red burns on his arms.
"I'll be having more company over here in a minute." Juno began. "as much as you two hyenas like to fight over Kenshin, I can't permit-"
Kaoru and Megumi began to close in on Juno, with murder in their eyes "- WHAT DID YOU JUST CALL US?!?!" they thundered in unison. Their hands reaching towards him like the Sword of Damocles.
Their target however, merely cracked his fingers and looked at the executioners passively. " You two should know I could put a curse on you that will turn your entire bloodstreams into sulfuric acid, giving you the most agonizing torture for days on end."
Kaoru and Megumi stopped for a second, and then instantly jumped behind Kenshin, who looked at them profoundly confused.
Kaoru couldn't stand the ruroni's astonishing sense of perception. "What do you think you're doing, Kenshin? Are you gonna let this psycho get away with that?"
"ORORO!?!?" squeaked a wide-eyed Kenshin.
Megumi was next: "Oh please! Save us from this mad magician. Sir Ken."
Kenshin tried to mumble something but Kaoru pushed him towards the fortuneteller. Megumi had saved him the trouble of unsheathing his sakabato but he wasn't so keen when trying to catch it. The handle beaned him on the noggin before clattering to the floor.
Juno however was not so amused. Steam began to hiss from his hood. "Psycho?? MAD MAGICIAN AM I??!?!"
Kenshin eyes' began to shrink in fear, he could see something horrible deep in the darkness of Juno's hood.
The little sorcerer's robes began to rise as if in a wind. Lightning began to crackle around his form. Everyone else stood riveted to his or her spot in curiosity. They saw what had Kenshin so riled up. Juno's eyes were no longer yellow. They had changed to a deep blood red, the kind that turn men into cowards.
"Those eyes!" Kaoru observed. "They're just like Kenshin's!"
"J-Juno? Is something wrong?" Kenshin asked, screwing his up his courage.
"Wrong?" A deep demonic voice hissed out of Juno. "No, I'm just fine, mortal. I enjoy the calm before carrying out my vengeance.." a fearsome figure appeared from Juno's shadow. It was manipulating the boy like a puppet. He pointed a thin hand towards Kaoru and Megumi, who were now trembling in fear. "Never before have I been so insulted in all my life. I shall make these two heathens pay for such spleen." Juno turned his blood red eyes towards Sano and grinned wickedly. "Don't worry, Zanza, you'll get your turn next."
Sano felt fear creep up on him but he tried hard not succumb. "I told you guys he wasn't human. Not for nothing, but I think you two harpies need to think about what you say from now on."
Kaoru and Megumi were now on the floor trying to scoot away but were too paralyzed with fear to move. Let alone sock Sano in the kisser for that remark.
"Hey! Knock it off!" Yahiko stood himself between the executioner and his prey. "I know these two might have said something they shouldn't have, but that doesn't give you the right to scare them half to death!"
"Out of the way." The demon thundered. "I don't want you. But if you insist on protecting them, I can't promise any mercy."
"Now it all makes sense." Kenshin said calmly as he approached the demonic apparition. "A man ruled by emotions is often a fool in his own web of self delusion but this is the weirdest case I've ever seen. Sometimes what was originally meant for good can sometimes be misinterpreted for evil by people who are petty and careless."
Then the wanderer turned his stern eyes towards Kaoru and Megumi. "At first when I saw my fortune, I thought something terrible might happen that would involve those I care about. But now I seen that it is something they have brought upon themselves. What you two said about this humble fortuneteller was uncalled for in the outmost disrespect. And I believe you owe him an apology."
Kaoru and Megumi looked at each other for a second and then at the vengeful looking specter in front of them. Kaoru took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Well, .. it was kind of hard between the trouble me and Megumi have. I didn't stop to think about it. But I upset someone who didn't deserve it.. Juno, I'm sorry about calling you psycho."
Juno began to fidget and twitch, then he clasped his hands to his head. Megumi stood up with a well of guilt inside her. "I guess it is true, some people can be victims of society. I feel worse still knowing that I have created a monster here. I let some stupid argument get to me. I'm sorry about the whole thing. I never meant to hurt you like that."
Juno stopped dead in his tracks, but the demon was writhing in agony. "No!" the demon voice hissed in pain "They shall know my vengeance!" "You shall not have it!" Juno's voice came next. "They've paid for their sins. I won't let you hurt them."
Everyone watched as Juno was apparently trying hard to combat the demon that now controlled his body.
"You are a fool! With the power at your fingertips, you could rule this world!"
"I don't care! Just go away! Leave me alone!!"
the demon roared in anger as he began to disintegrate. Everyone shielded their eyes as the creature exploded in a flash of light. When it was over, they found Juno on the floor, scarce of breath. Kenshin picked up his sakabato and sheathed it. Then he walked over to Juno, helping him to his feet. "Are you all right, Juno?"
The fortuneteller lifted his head. Upon looking at the friends that nearly became his victims, Juno turned away in shame. "No I am not. I understand perfectly well if you all want to leave."
Hiko came in, and one good look told him what had happened. "Hey, is something on your mind, little guy? I think it's about time you told us what that thing was."
Juno fell silent. No one had asked him that before, and even coming from the great sword master it was kind of weird. ".Are you sure you wish to hear?"
At first no one said anything, but Yahiko ended up breaking the silence. "Stranger things have happened before. I mean, half the people in this room have stories they don't like to share."
"And just what did you mean by that, Yahiko?" Kaoru growled.
"I just meant that we're all in the same boat and-" Yahiko got no further as Sano buried a fist in his left cheek. "You talk too much, shrimp."
As much as Yahiko deserved that, no one in that room could deny the shadows that they would have preferred to keep secret.
Just then, the bells were ringing outside once more.
"Can you answer that, Kenshin?" Juno asked.
Kenshin mentally slapped himself straight before approaching the door. First a fortuneteller who knows his stuff, fiery sake, and now a temper that could unleash demonic retribution. What next, he thought, could be worse? He masked his dilemma as he opened the door. and saw someone who made his eyes grow to dinner plate size once more:
(Place your bets, people; who's at the door?)
Sano: I bet it's that pirate chick, Shura.
Yahiko: No way, it has to be Saitou again.
Megumi: Ugh. I'd hate to deal with that old grouch again. I'd say Dr. Gensai
(The betting pool is now closed)
" Orororo ?!?!?!?! MISAO!?!!?!"
Yes, it was the feisty Oniwaban ninja, Misao Makamachi. "What's the matter? Were you expecting that shifty-eyed cop again?" She joked.
Poor Kenshin was at a loss of words.. "Um, It's good to se you again Miss Misao." He managed to mumble. "What brings you here from the Aoiya?"
Out of the darkness, a smiling face came forward. "The same reason I'm here, Mr. Himura. Though I did not expect to see you alive after fighting Mr. Shishio."
Soujiro?!??! Oororro.. X-Xx\/?" Kenshin passed out on the floor, complete with swirly-eyes and incoherent oroes..
5 minutes later, Kenshin found his nose reunited with the horrible sage leaf that hung around Juno's neck and promptly came to.
"This is odd, Kenshin." Juno began, "as this is the first night in my life to use this thing twice. And on the same person, might I add."
The wanderer closed two fingers over his nose as he rose from the floor. "Dis has been a weird night, dat it has."
"You can say that again." Sano added. "You set a new record today; most consecutive 'oro's in a single day."
"I don't think so Sano," Kenshin mused calmly. "I think your nose had you in for most unluckiest fool in all Tokyo."
Sano felt his confidence shatter into pieces as everyone else in the room howled in laughter. ".. At least I'm not scared of a little raccoon."
Unfortunately for Sano, Kaoru was in hearing range, and she promptly hammered the rooster with a large bronze urn. Rubbing the throbbing weld on his head, Sano sat himself down amidst renewed snickering. For the better part of a half-hour Misao talked about life after the fall of Makoto Shishio:
".. The police rounded up most of the army after the Purgatory debacle-
"-We already know that," Hiko interrupted. "You don't forget a thing like that, though I could hardly call that a battle."
"WHO'S TELLING THIS STORY?!?" Misao thundered like a foghorn. :As I was saying, none of the small-time thieves dared to show their faces, even after the police raided the temple where the Juupongatana hid. But since that giant messed up our place, we've been hard pressed to scare up the money for repairs, so Grandpa told me that someone heading to Tokyo was looking for some help."
Juno rose from his seat producing a scroll from his sleeve. "A few days before I left Kyoto, I realized that I could not continue handle the business on my own, and have decided to look for some help. I paid someone to find anyone interested in a job." The little fortuneteller unrolls the scroll for all to see:
"Do you tire of everyday boredom?
Are you looking for an honest career?
Apply now for Assistant position
Good pay and job security.
For more information, ask for Juno, proprietor
Of the Silver Eyed Star- Potions and Fortunes"
"Unfortunately, the time for my departure came sooner than I expected, so I hired a man to send information of my applicants via carrier birds. This was an unusual surprise: I set an invitation for commoner and lo, I catch two prominent warriors- Misao Makimachi, Leader of the Kyoto Oniwaban... and Soujiro Seta, former head of the Juupongatana."
Both of them were shocked at once. "I expected as much from you two," Juno exclaimed. "I can see the present, the future, and into your souls as well. Do not fear though, just consider it your interview."
"Excuse me," Soujiro quirked. "But how is it that you know of us when this is the first time we've met?"
"I moved to Kyoto right after the Purgatory debacle." Juno continued. "One of the bad things about being a fortuneteller is that you sometimes see things you don't want to, but I wasn't too worried. Contrary to what some people believe, I don't stick my nose into other people's lives unless they seek me out."
Sano's eyes narrowed in annoyance. "At least I don't need to peddle phony charms to make ends meet."
"I'd watch it, rooster." Juno shot back. "Unless you want to know the meaning of fear."
"You don't scare me, shorty! Bring it on!"
"I really didn't want to do this." Juno said as he put his hands together. "But you've been asking for this all night."
Everyone watched as a faint light hummed from Juno's hands and formed into some sort of energy ball. After about 5 seconds of wonder, it shot out at Sano and blew up in a cloud of smoke. When the dust settled, Sano was a floored smoking mess.
"What the heck was that?" Misao asked.
"One of the reasons you should never judge a book by its cover." Came Juno's answer.
Sano got up very slowly, as if his body was made of glass. "Ugh.you.just wait 'til I get my hands on you."
"I think you should give it up, Sano." Misao suggested. "You must be getting soft if you let a little guy like him beat you."
"What was that, Weasel??" The angry rooster shouted.
"WEASEL?! I'll tear you to pieces for that!"
Almost immediately, Sano and Misao disappeared in a cloud of dust, insults and fists flying everywhere. Sweat drops immediately formed on the back of everyone else's head.
"I think it would be a good idea to leave them alone, that I do." Kenshin mused.
After 5 minutes of shouting and beating, Misao stood victorious on a swirly- eyed and bleeding Sano. "That's what you get for calling me weasel!" she shouted to the crumpled rooster.
Megumi tried to stifle her laughter as she treated her little rooster head (poor guy.). Unfortunately for Sano, everyone else was laughing their heads off.
"Your fortune's come true, Sano." Juno interjected. "Still think I need to peddle phony charms?"
All Juno got from Sano was subdued grumbling.
"I think we should get back to business." Misao proposed. Weren't you aware that you could have died if the Juupongatana got a hold of you?"
"I don't think so." Juno chuckled. "If the Juupongatana tried anything funny, I would have brought hell on their heads."
Soujiro blinked mystified. The mere mention of the Juupongatana sent chills down the spines of brave men, but to him it was inconceivable for anyone, let alone a fortuneteller speak of them like common thieves. "You must know something I don't to say something so bold, Mr. Juno."
"Just a little of what I can tell you can scare thugs to their bones, Soujiro" the latter admitted. ".But that's the first time I've ever been called 'Mr. Juno' before. But there's something I must tell all of you. Misao, would you please gather everyone in the lobby?"
A few minutes later everyone gathered in the room as Juno snuffed out most of the lights in the house.
"So what's the big commotion?" Sano asked.
"It's a terrible story, are you sure you want to hear it?" Juno asked.
"You don't have to tell anything if you don't want to." Kenshin said. "It's usually not a good idea to make things worse than they already are, that it isn't.
Just then, a strong wind howled in the lobby, taking everyone by surprise. After a moment's passing, the room was still, but Juno found himself holding a parchment scroll.
"How did that get in here?" Kaoru asked.
"I'm not sure." Juno said. "Maybe this can tell us?" He unrolled the scroll and began to read:
"To: Juno-
It's happened again, hasn't it? If so, my fears are being confirmed. I will be there in a short while, so don't let anyone leave the house; It might not be safe."
Juno began to shiver as the scroll fell from his hands. "Oh dear. he's coming."
"Who is?" Yahiko asked.
"... My master."
********End of chapter***************************************************
Juno: I'm a monster?? Oh my god.
Murray: Hey, do you think you and I can switch?
Ravenf6: I don't think so Murray, you're still as fearsome as a doorstop.
Murray: Is it a really EVIL looking doorstop?
Ravenf6: No...Wanna stick around and help me with the fic?
Murray: Well .. Not much to do when you're a bodiless head. Ravenf6: Cool. First off, I'd like to apologize for not updating after so long, I wasn't sure if I wanted to put all this stuff in, make things a bit more interesting. Now Kenshin and his friends wonder about Juno's mysterious master and sleepy time will turn into weirdness: the Kenshingumi nightmares are coming!!!!.
Murray: If you want to find out what happens next, please read and review, or I'll cut out your tongue and make you eat it in a sandwich! Mwa ha ha ha ha ha ha!!
Ravenf6: .Whatever. You heard the talking skull. Until next chapter, folks!
Juno: Smell ya later!! ^_^
Mysterious Darkness!-
The other side of Juno's Shadow
Maybe I'm cursed or something. Because writer's block once again rears its ugly head. But I have decided that this chapter in spite of its usual comic tone will plunge into darkness for a time, and will be longer than usual. and I'm gonna change this to a general/humor/supernatural fic.
Murray the talking skull: Yes. I will now carry out my diabolical plan to rule this pathetic world! MWAHAHAHHAHA!!
Ravenf6: Murray? What the heck are you doing here? You're supposed to be in the Monkey Island section!
Murray: Silence! I came here from the bowels of hell to take over this fic! I will now cast you into the very crucible of horror!!
Ravenf6: ... and how do you plan to do that? Chew my ears off?
Murray: I'll.. Uhhh. Could you pick me up so I can bite your nose?
Ravenf6: No way! Unlike you, I can harness unfathomable power. And right now, I'd feed you to feral dogs than sooner look at you.
Murray: Whoa, take it easy! Just thought I'd ask. Go ahead and get on with this silly story. I've got some evil plotting to do..
Ravenf6: Whatever, Murray: I have to say the stupid disclaimer again, thanks to you!
Disclaimer: I don't own Ruroni Kenshin or its characters. Murray and the Monkey Island series belongs to LucasArts, not me. But Juno is mine. So don't get any funny ideas about stealing him.
Juno: One question, why is this chapter so dark?
Ravenf6: You'll see.on to the fic!!!
Chapter 7: The other side of the mirror
Kenshin's lot had not improved at all as his nervous system was getting a serious work out as Karou and Megumi continued their tug-of-war. Between Kaoru and Megumi's shouting, he tried vainly to pour oil over troubled waters
"OWW!! Could you two please find a way to settle this without involving bodily pain?" The human rope ruroni asked his tormenters.
Kaoru and Megumi mellowed out slowly, their eyes gentle towards Kenshin. The latter felt relieved that they stopped tugging on him, but that melted away with a unanimous shout of "YOU STAY OUT OF THIS, KENSHIN!!!" and resumed pulling on their red haired human rope.
Yahiko and Sano made a mad dash for either of the two rabid women and tried to pry them apart. This wasn't without complaint:
Kaoru: "!! Let me go, Yahiko! This is between me and Megumi'
Yahiko: "But, Kaoru. You'll rip Kenshin's arms off!"
Kaoru" "I don't care, I'm not gonna let Megumi have her way!"
Sano: "You're both gonna have to stop Missy, I don't think Kenshin will appreciate losing a limb."
Megumi: "If you don't let go of me Sano, I'll give more to worry about than losing a limb!
Kenshin: If you two are going to argue over me, could you please let me- OOUCH!!!
The only people uninvolved in the pulling and shouting were Juno and Hiko. Both the bystanders looked at each other and then at the fracas.
"It's hard to believe isn't it?" Hiko Began. " The most feared man of the Revolution, and yet he can't even handle a pair of wild women."
Juno sighed at the scenario. "I've seen this bit time and time again, Hiko. I still have a hard time getting used to it. Hundreds of years from now, people will see this and laugh."
Hiko raised an eyebrow. "Laugh? What makes you so certain they will even know about this?"
The fortuneteller opened a window to observe the sunset, a smile on his shrouded face. "Fate has mysterious ways of preserving the past.. the present. and the future.."
Hiko chuckled under his breath. "I think you need a vacation, kid."
"By the time we are dust in our graves, thousands of people will know your names." Juno replied. "Maybe more than we can ever count."
"And what of you?" Hiko asked. "Surely your magic can't extend the thread of life."
Juno chuckled. "There are more things on Heaven and Earth, Hiko, than are dreamt of in your philosophy."
A small nightingale found its way to the open window, it perched itself on Juno's shoulder and pecked at his hood. Juno took the bird carefully in his hand and noticed a small parchment tied to its leg. Feeling curious, Hiko moved in for a closer inspection. "Messenger bird? You don't see too many out here."
Juno read the parchment and grunted approvingly. Then he turned his attention to the battle nearby. " Hey guys will you knock it off over there?"
Almost at once the fighting stopped instantly. Kenshin took to a safe distance before examining the red burns on his arms.
"I'll be having more company over here in a minute." Juno began. "as much as you two hyenas like to fight over Kenshin, I can't permit-"
Kaoru and Megumi began to close in on Juno, with murder in their eyes "- WHAT DID YOU JUST CALL US?!?!" they thundered in unison. Their hands reaching towards him like the Sword of Damocles.
Their target however, merely cracked his fingers and looked at the executioners passively. " You two should know I could put a curse on you that will turn your entire bloodstreams into sulfuric acid, giving you the most agonizing torture for days on end."
Kaoru and Megumi stopped for a second, and then instantly jumped behind Kenshin, who looked at them profoundly confused.
Kaoru couldn't stand the ruroni's astonishing sense of perception. "What do you think you're doing, Kenshin? Are you gonna let this psycho get away with that?"
"ORORO!?!?" squeaked a wide-eyed Kenshin.
Megumi was next: "Oh please! Save us from this mad magician. Sir Ken."
Kenshin tried to mumble something but Kaoru pushed him towards the fortuneteller. Megumi had saved him the trouble of unsheathing his sakabato but he wasn't so keen when trying to catch it. The handle beaned him on the noggin before clattering to the floor.
Juno however was not so amused. Steam began to hiss from his hood. "Psycho?? MAD MAGICIAN AM I??!?!"
Kenshin eyes' began to shrink in fear, he could see something horrible deep in the darkness of Juno's hood.
The little sorcerer's robes began to rise as if in a wind. Lightning began to crackle around his form. Everyone else stood riveted to his or her spot in curiosity. They saw what had Kenshin so riled up. Juno's eyes were no longer yellow. They had changed to a deep blood red, the kind that turn men into cowards.
"Those eyes!" Kaoru observed. "They're just like Kenshin's!"
"J-Juno? Is something wrong?" Kenshin asked, screwing his up his courage.
"Wrong?" A deep demonic voice hissed out of Juno. "No, I'm just fine, mortal. I enjoy the calm before carrying out my vengeance.." a fearsome figure appeared from Juno's shadow. It was manipulating the boy like a puppet. He pointed a thin hand towards Kaoru and Megumi, who were now trembling in fear. "Never before have I been so insulted in all my life. I shall make these two heathens pay for such spleen." Juno turned his blood red eyes towards Sano and grinned wickedly. "Don't worry, Zanza, you'll get your turn next."
Sano felt fear creep up on him but he tried hard not succumb. "I told you guys he wasn't human. Not for nothing, but I think you two harpies need to think about what you say from now on."
Kaoru and Megumi were now on the floor trying to scoot away but were too paralyzed with fear to move. Let alone sock Sano in the kisser for that remark.
"Hey! Knock it off!" Yahiko stood himself between the executioner and his prey. "I know these two might have said something they shouldn't have, but that doesn't give you the right to scare them half to death!"
"Out of the way." The demon thundered. "I don't want you. But if you insist on protecting them, I can't promise any mercy."
"Now it all makes sense." Kenshin said calmly as he approached the demonic apparition. "A man ruled by emotions is often a fool in his own web of self delusion but this is the weirdest case I've ever seen. Sometimes what was originally meant for good can sometimes be misinterpreted for evil by people who are petty and careless."
Then the wanderer turned his stern eyes towards Kaoru and Megumi. "At first when I saw my fortune, I thought something terrible might happen that would involve those I care about. But now I seen that it is something they have brought upon themselves. What you two said about this humble fortuneteller was uncalled for in the outmost disrespect. And I believe you owe him an apology."
Kaoru and Megumi looked at each other for a second and then at the vengeful looking specter in front of them. Kaoru took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Well, .. it was kind of hard between the trouble me and Megumi have. I didn't stop to think about it. But I upset someone who didn't deserve it.. Juno, I'm sorry about calling you psycho."
Juno began to fidget and twitch, then he clasped his hands to his head. Megumi stood up with a well of guilt inside her. "I guess it is true, some people can be victims of society. I feel worse still knowing that I have created a monster here. I let some stupid argument get to me. I'm sorry about the whole thing. I never meant to hurt you like that."
Juno stopped dead in his tracks, but the demon was writhing in agony. "No!" the demon voice hissed in pain "They shall know my vengeance!" "You shall not have it!" Juno's voice came next. "They've paid for their sins. I won't let you hurt them."
Everyone watched as Juno was apparently trying hard to combat the demon that now controlled his body.
"You are a fool! With the power at your fingertips, you could rule this world!"
"I don't care! Just go away! Leave me alone!!"
the demon roared in anger as he began to disintegrate. Everyone shielded their eyes as the creature exploded in a flash of light. When it was over, they found Juno on the floor, scarce of breath. Kenshin picked up his sakabato and sheathed it. Then he walked over to Juno, helping him to his feet. "Are you all right, Juno?"
The fortuneteller lifted his head. Upon looking at the friends that nearly became his victims, Juno turned away in shame. "No I am not. I understand perfectly well if you all want to leave."
Hiko came in, and one good look told him what had happened. "Hey, is something on your mind, little guy? I think it's about time you told us what that thing was."
Juno fell silent. No one had asked him that before, and even coming from the great sword master it was kind of weird. ".Are you sure you wish to hear?"
At first no one said anything, but Yahiko ended up breaking the silence. "Stranger things have happened before. I mean, half the people in this room have stories they don't like to share."
"And just what did you mean by that, Yahiko?" Kaoru growled.
"I just meant that we're all in the same boat and-" Yahiko got no further as Sano buried a fist in his left cheek. "You talk too much, shrimp."
As much as Yahiko deserved that, no one in that room could deny the shadows that they would have preferred to keep secret.
Just then, the bells were ringing outside once more.
"Can you answer that, Kenshin?" Juno asked.
Kenshin mentally slapped himself straight before approaching the door. First a fortuneteller who knows his stuff, fiery sake, and now a temper that could unleash demonic retribution. What next, he thought, could be worse? He masked his dilemma as he opened the door. and saw someone who made his eyes grow to dinner plate size once more:
(Place your bets, people; who's at the door?)
Sano: I bet it's that pirate chick, Shura.
Yahiko: No way, it has to be Saitou again.
Megumi: Ugh. I'd hate to deal with that old grouch again. I'd say Dr. Gensai
(The betting pool is now closed)
" Orororo ?!?!?!?! MISAO!?!!?!"
Yes, it was the feisty Oniwaban ninja, Misao Makamachi. "What's the matter? Were you expecting that shifty-eyed cop again?" She joked.
Poor Kenshin was at a loss of words.. "Um, It's good to se you again Miss Misao." He managed to mumble. "What brings you here from the Aoiya?"
Out of the darkness, a smiling face came forward. "The same reason I'm here, Mr. Himura. Though I did not expect to see you alive after fighting Mr. Shishio."
Soujiro?!??! Oororro.. X-Xx\/?" Kenshin passed out on the floor, complete with swirly-eyes and incoherent oroes..
5 minutes later, Kenshin found his nose reunited with the horrible sage leaf that hung around Juno's neck and promptly came to.
"This is odd, Kenshin." Juno began, "as this is the first night in my life to use this thing twice. And on the same person, might I add."
The wanderer closed two fingers over his nose as he rose from the floor. "Dis has been a weird night, dat it has."
"You can say that again." Sano added. "You set a new record today; most consecutive 'oro's in a single day."
"I don't think so Sano," Kenshin mused calmly. "I think your nose had you in for most unluckiest fool in all Tokyo."
Sano felt his confidence shatter into pieces as everyone else in the room howled in laughter. ".. At least I'm not scared of a little raccoon."
Unfortunately for Sano, Kaoru was in hearing range, and she promptly hammered the rooster with a large bronze urn. Rubbing the throbbing weld on his head, Sano sat himself down amidst renewed snickering. For the better part of a half-hour Misao talked about life after the fall of Makoto Shishio:
".. The police rounded up most of the army after the Purgatory debacle-
"-We already know that," Hiko interrupted. "You don't forget a thing like that, though I could hardly call that a battle."
"WHO'S TELLING THIS STORY?!?" Misao thundered like a foghorn. :As I was saying, none of the small-time thieves dared to show their faces, even after the police raided the temple where the Juupongatana hid. But since that giant messed up our place, we've been hard pressed to scare up the money for repairs, so Grandpa told me that someone heading to Tokyo was looking for some help."
Juno rose from his seat producing a scroll from his sleeve. "A few days before I left Kyoto, I realized that I could not continue handle the business on my own, and have decided to look for some help. I paid someone to find anyone interested in a job." The little fortuneteller unrolls the scroll for all to see:
"Do you tire of everyday boredom?
Are you looking for an honest career?
Apply now for Assistant position
Good pay and job security.
For more information, ask for Juno, proprietor
Of the Silver Eyed Star- Potions and Fortunes"
"Unfortunately, the time for my departure came sooner than I expected, so I hired a man to send information of my applicants via carrier birds. This was an unusual surprise: I set an invitation for commoner and lo, I catch two prominent warriors- Misao Makimachi, Leader of the Kyoto Oniwaban... and Soujiro Seta, former head of the Juupongatana."
Both of them were shocked at once. "I expected as much from you two," Juno exclaimed. "I can see the present, the future, and into your souls as well. Do not fear though, just consider it your interview."
"Excuse me," Soujiro quirked. "But how is it that you know of us when this is the first time we've met?"
"I moved to Kyoto right after the Purgatory debacle." Juno continued. "One of the bad things about being a fortuneteller is that you sometimes see things you don't want to, but I wasn't too worried. Contrary to what some people believe, I don't stick my nose into other people's lives unless they seek me out."
Sano's eyes narrowed in annoyance. "At least I don't need to peddle phony charms to make ends meet."
"I'd watch it, rooster." Juno shot back. "Unless you want to know the meaning of fear."
"You don't scare me, shorty! Bring it on!"
"I really didn't want to do this." Juno said as he put his hands together. "But you've been asking for this all night."
Everyone watched as a faint light hummed from Juno's hands and formed into some sort of energy ball. After about 5 seconds of wonder, it shot out at Sano and blew up in a cloud of smoke. When the dust settled, Sano was a floored smoking mess.
"What the heck was that?" Misao asked.
"One of the reasons you should never judge a book by its cover." Came Juno's answer.
Sano got up very slowly, as if his body was made of glass. "Ugh.you.just wait 'til I get my hands on you."
"I think you should give it up, Sano." Misao suggested. "You must be getting soft if you let a little guy like him beat you."
"What was that, Weasel??" The angry rooster shouted.
"WEASEL?! I'll tear you to pieces for that!"
Almost immediately, Sano and Misao disappeared in a cloud of dust, insults and fists flying everywhere. Sweat drops immediately formed on the back of everyone else's head.
"I think it would be a good idea to leave them alone, that I do." Kenshin mused.
After 5 minutes of shouting and beating, Misao stood victorious on a swirly- eyed and bleeding Sano. "That's what you get for calling me weasel!" she shouted to the crumpled rooster.
Megumi tried to stifle her laughter as she treated her little rooster head (poor guy.). Unfortunately for Sano, everyone else was laughing their heads off.
"Your fortune's come true, Sano." Juno interjected. "Still think I need to peddle phony charms?"
All Juno got from Sano was subdued grumbling.
"I think we should get back to business." Misao proposed. Weren't you aware that you could have died if the Juupongatana got a hold of you?"
"I don't think so." Juno chuckled. "If the Juupongatana tried anything funny, I would have brought hell on their heads."
Soujiro blinked mystified. The mere mention of the Juupongatana sent chills down the spines of brave men, but to him it was inconceivable for anyone, let alone a fortuneteller speak of them like common thieves. "You must know something I don't to say something so bold, Mr. Juno."
"Just a little of what I can tell you can scare thugs to their bones, Soujiro" the latter admitted. ".But that's the first time I've ever been called 'Mr. Juno' before. But there's something I must tell all of you. Misao, would you please gather everyone in the lobby?"
A few minutes later everyone gathered in the room as Juno snuffed out most of the lights in the house.
"So what's the big commotion?" Sano asked.
"It's a terrible story, are you sure you want to hear it?" Juno asked.
"You don't have to tell anything if you don't want to." Kenshin said. "It's usually not a good idea to make things worse than they already are, that it isn't.
Just then, a strong wind howled in the lobby, taking everyone by surprise. After a moment's passing, the room was still, but Juno found himself holding a parchment scroll.
"How did that get in here?" Kaoru asked.
"I'm not sure." Juno said. "Maybe this can tell us?" He unrolled the scroll and began to read:
"To: Juno-
It's happened again, hasn't it? If so, my fears are being confirmed. I will be there in a short while, so don't let anyone leave the house; It might not be safe."
Juno began to shiver as the scroll fell from his hands. "Oh dear. he's coming."
"Who is?" Yahiko asked.
"... My master."
********End of chapter***************************************************
Juno: I'm a monster?? Oh my god.
Murray: Hey, do you think you and I can switch?
Ravenf6: I don't think so Murray, you're still as fearsome as a doorstop.
Murray: Is it a really EVIL looking doorstop?
Ravenf6: No...Wanna stick around and help me with the fic?
Murray: Well .. Not much to do when you're a bodiless head. Ravenf6: Cool. First off, I'd like to apologize for not updating after so long, I wasn't sure if I wanted to put all this stuff in, make things a bit more interesting. Now Kenshin and his friends wonder about Juno's mysterious master and sleepy time will turn into weirdness: the Kenshingumi nightmares are coming!!!!.
Murray: If you want to find out what happens next, please read and review, or I'll cut out your tongue and make you eat it in a sandwich! Mwa ha ha ha ha ha ha!!
Ravenf6: .Whatever. You heard the talking skull. Until next chapter, folks!
Juno: Smell ya later!! ^_^