Chapter Twenty Four
Soujirou paused to look back over his shoulder at the door.
There was no doubt in his mind that Kamatari wouldn't try to escape. The man had an excellent idea of what Shishio did to those who deserted, especially traitorous deserters. No, he wouldn't even try to escape, however, he might try to get Sagara out.
Soujirou didn't think the young man was of any particular use to them, but he also didn't see how he could be let go. Even if he knew next to nothing it was still more than he should.
What was he worried about anyway? Anji was guarding the door. There'd be no miraculous escape, only a failed attempt.
'He was your friend.'
Soujirou paused and cocked his head. Now he was delusional. Hearing voices in his head.
Shrugging, he walked forward as the inner voice continued.
'He was like a brother. You betrayed your brother.'
He betrayed me first. Soujirou pointed out to his voice.
'You didn't ask his reasons.'
I didn't need to.
'Are you a machine or a mindless slave? No, you're neither. So why?'
It's not my business. Shishio will deal with him as he sees fit.
'An excuse.'
Fine, an excuse, Soujirou said with a nod, but it's valid.
That shut it up. Soujirou didn't know whether to revel in that small triumph or be very leery of what it meant.
"Having some regrets, hmm?"
"Oh, Mister Usui, no, I was just thinking. Wondering why anyone would do something like that. Ah, but you are not the one to ask, speaking that you want to kill Shishio!"
"Quite right."
"If you will please excuse me, I am sure Misao is wondering where I have gone."
Usui's voice stopped him cold, "The little weasel was playing around underground earlier. She scrambled off into a rather small, narrow vent. I'd imagine she's rather lost and cold at the moment."
Soujirou turned purposefully, mindful that the blind man couldn't see his hesitant smile, yet knowing that he could detect tone change and heart beat, "Mr. Usui, if you hurt her, or even scared her, I am afraid that I will have to take appropriate action against you, Shishio's orders or not."
The blind man shrugged and sneered, "She's quite alive. Quite feisty too. Down there talking to Shinomori, heh. You should watch your pet a little more closely. Who knows what kind of parasites she's picking up."
Soujirou didn't answer. He didn't have to because silence was what the man expected. Well, let him revel in his private glee, as long as Misao was safe and unharmed. If she wasn't then he was going to have some problems in the near future.
As soon as Usui left he started towards the basement. Why would Misao go down there? Soujirou knew she was slightly claustrophobic, not to mention she had never shown any interest before. Maybe Usui was right and she had gone to talk to Shinomori. He didn't know if that made him feel any better. He knew that Aoshi wouldn't purposefully, physically hurt her, but the man was careless with his words.
Kamatari would just have to wait. Not that Soujirou even knew what he was going to do about that anyway.
He walked down the dim halls slightly annoyed. Misao certainly had interesting timing when she did things. Then he had to remind himself that she didn't do it on purpose, and somehow he had a feeling that Usui was involved in this.
About ten minutes into his search he ran across something rather peculiar.
Of course, the fact that she fiercely held a broom that was almost twice the size of her was hardly daunting. Still, how did a child get in here, and more importantly, why?
The child watched him solemnly, not making a sound.
"Why are you here Miss Megumi?" He asked. He probably should have just called her a little girl, but when it came down to it, he was going to have to take her in. There was no way she could run away from him anyway.
"Where's my Mommy." The child retorted, still not moving an inch.
"Is that who you are looking for?" Soujirou asked.
"You put 'Tari and Sano in a room."
Good lord, how did you explain something like this to a child? Why was he even thinking about this at all? He should just disarm the child, pick her up, and drag her back.
"Yes, I did."
She eyed him boldly, "Did you put Mommy in a room? I can't find her."
"How do you know your Mommy is here?" Soujirou reasoned.
Megumi looked at him patiently, "Who else would steal her?"
Steal…? Kidnap probably. Did all kids speak in riddles?
"I know nothing about your mother, but I cannot leave you down here by yourself. You should come with me."
"No, you're a bad guy. You locked up 'Tari and Sano." She said stubbornly and backed up. "Where's Mommy?"
"I do not know. You need to come with me before someone else finds you." Soujirou was at a loss. He wasn't really feeling like hefting the kid over his shoulder was going to get him anywhere, but if she remained stubborn he'd have to. Plus, he didn't know if he could actually protect her if someone took an interest. Either way, he'd have to keep her from wandering around further.
"No. You hurt 'Tari."
'Yes, you hurt the beloved 'Tari.' His inner voice chimed in darkly.
Well, here was a bright idea.
"Would you like to go see him?"
She eyed him shrewdly, "And Sano too?"
"Yes." Soujirou nodded, almost eager. This was pathetic. He was bowing down to child, but he really didn't want to hurt or scare her. Not that it seemed likely she would be scared, considering the way she was looking at him.
Anji would probably the only one of the Ten Swords that Soujirou would actually trust with a child. Plus, it would be easier if everyone were in one place. The girl would make excellent insurance against Kamatari trying something.
'Like you need it.' The voice chimed in, then added maliciously. 'Yes, let the child see what happens to traitors.'
"Okay." She said finally, "But you should be careful."
He gave her a puzzled smile as they walked back down the hall. "And why is that?"
"Mister Wolf will be coming. And Kenny and Hiko too."
Soujirou tried to ask more, but Megumi clammed up completely. In the end he was glad to hand her off to Anji, who thankfully asked no awkward questions, and went to find Misao.
Megumi stood quietly as the door shut behind her.
'Tari and Sano were both leaning up against the wall, asleep. She really didn't want to interrupt their naptime, but she needed help finding Mommy. Despite her bold words to the smiling guy, she wasn't all that confident in a rescue. She had decided that grown-ups were fickle. Didn't their mommies ever teach them to help others?
"Hey, Sweetie, I'd ask why you're here, but I don't think I want to know." 'Tari said softly, without moving, "Why don't you come over here with us and tell me about it? You just have to be quiet because Sano's sleeping."
She picked her way over carefully and nestled in between the two adults, for the first time since deciding to find Mommy, feeling safe. Sano's deep, even breaths reassured her that everything was okay and that she was with friends.
"Well? You're much too fearless Meg." 'Tari chided, stroking her hair slightly. He sounded sad.
She reached up and grabbed his hand. "Don't worry 'Tari." She said optimistically, "It'll be okay."
He gave her a washed out smile, "For you, I hope so."
Megumi narrowed her eyes. She didn't understand the words, but she could tell from his tone that he didn't believe her.
"Mommy's missing." She said without preamble. There wasn't any time to waste on silly things like that. "I came home from my friend's house and Mister Wolf was there. But he was talking to that big man, Hiko. They were fighting. Mommy would say they were being donkeys too. Anyway, someone took Mommy and Sissy's lost."
Kamatari sighed, "Usui, and probably Shinomori, although it doesn't seem his style. Still, he's pretty cuckoo if you ask me. You should have let Saitoh know you were there Meg. He'll be worried."
Sano made a snorting noise.
"Oh, how long have you been awake?"
"Uh, since Megumi came in." Sano grunted.
Kamatari blinked slowly, "You're rather calm considering."
"I'm fucking pissed to hell, but I can't fucking move, now can I? Tried some drugs once, a bit of this and that, didn't like it. Who fucking knows what's in my body right now. For all I know, they could have given me some shitty thing that eats flesh." Sano swore, not even bothering to watch his mouth. Megumi would have lectured him usually, but he looked hurt. "Your pals are pieces of work. She's just a little kid. They going to burn her at the stake too?"
Kamatari looked disturbed by that suggestion and glanced over to her with a frown, "No, I don't think so. She would probably be used in another way."
"You don't mean—that's sick!"
Kamatari smiled slightly and flicked his forehead, "You're the one with the sick mind. I was talking about ransom and deals." His frown returned and he scooted closer to her, effectively sandwiching her snuggly. "Besides, let them try to lay a finger on her."
She looked between them, noting the determination on their faces. Like they were making a silent promise. This was all well and good, but they needed to get out of this room. She had seen the big guy by the door. He looked strong. They needed a plan.
A/N: cringes Father Aoshi, forgive me for I have sinned! Two weeks without an update! twitch --' Seriously? I'm having some RL problems with work (joy), some motivation problems (related to work), and I was just plain stuck as to where to go (still am). Anyway, this is a sucky chapter and I'll probably redo it, but hey, it's an update right?
Fyyrrose: I'm sure you're enjoying your hell-weekend. I got dragged to the mall for clothes shopping (and talked my way into the bookstore ). I have a ton of stuff I haven't watched! I should watch 3x3 Eyes first, but I think I'll start on IY while I wait for Naruto Season 3. Closet pervert! lmao Ooo, off me? That's dangerous.
Cat fight! laughing Yer momma musta raised you in a barn because you act like an ass! Well, yer family must be a pack of wolves, considering your manners! I just can't see Hiko stooping that low --' Speaking of wolves glares I want the next PMK! 5 left off at an evil place x-( EVIL! wishes could read Japanese).Soujirou... he wouldn't make a good shrink. To be a shrink you have to understand peoples' behaviors and motives. He can't even figure out his own, poor guy. Heisuke... :) Brainwash? But it's so fun that Kenshin shattered his last link to sanity! Yes, Sano's very pissed... mushy? blinks This can't possibly scare you after the OxT moments in HS runs for the bathroom. Those make my stomach turn. Glad you liked the "fucking damsel in distress" blurb, I should put that in there. Then Ren can make a comment and Okita can stew . Sorry, I feel the need to give the guy some grief after reading PMK 4.
MissBehavin: Two prideful men who hate each other. Were you expecting anything else? Saitoh would definately be on his way. Hmm, thinks yes, Shishio's judgement. Won't that be fun?! Wow, I must be in a sadistic mood... I blame Dan and her PMK scans. Oh, and being dragged to the mall. Mall=clothes shopping=evil. Hmm, future... maybe. I would be rather cruel to take out two of my fav. characters, now wouldn't it? You know, that wasn't planned at all. It just happened. The Sano/Tari. (uh-huh, not planned at all...)
Soujirou paused to look back over his shoulder at the door.
There was no doubt in his mind that Kamatari wouldn't try to escape. The man had an excellent idea of what Shishio did to those who deserted, especially traitorous deserters. No, he wouldn't even try to escape, however, he might try to get Sagara out.
Soujirou didn't think the young man was of any particular use to them, but he also didn't see how he could be let go. Even if he knew next to nothing it was still more than he should.
What was he worried about anyway? Anji was guarding the door. There'd be no miraculous escape, only a failed attempt.
'He was your friend.'
Soujirou paused and cocked his head. Now he was delusional. Hearing voices in his head.
Shrugging, he walked forward as the inner voice continued.
'He was like a brother. You betrayed your brother.'
He betrayed me first. Soujirou pointed out to his voice.
'You didn't ask his reasons.'
I didn't need to.
'Are you a machine or a mindless slave? No, you're neither. So why?'
It's not my business. Shishio will deal with him as he sees fit.
'An excuse.'
Fine, an excuse, Soujirou said with a nod, but it's valid.
That shut it up. Soujirou didn't know whether to revel in that small triumph or be very leery of what it meant.
"Having some regrets, hmm?"
"Oh, Mister Usui, no, I was just thinking. Wondering why anyone would do something like that. Ah, but you are not the one to ask, speaking that you want to kill Shishio!"
"Quite right."
"If you will please excuse me, I am sure Misao is wondering where I have gone."
Usui's voice stopped him cold, "The little weasel was playing around underground earlier. She scrambled off into a rather small, narrow vent. I'd imagine she's rather lost and cold at the moment."
Soujirou turned purposefully, mindful that the blind man couldn't see his hesitant smile, yet knowing that he could detect tone change and heart beat, "Mr. Usui, if you hurt her, or even scared her, I am afraid that I will have to take appropriate action against you, Shishio's orders or not."
The blind man shrugged and sneered, "She's quite alive. Quite feisty too. Down there talking to Shinomori, heh. You should watch your pet a little more closely. Who knows what kind of parasites she's picking up."
Soujirou didn't answer. He didn't have to because silence was what the man expected. Well, let him revel in his private glee, as long as Misao was safe and unharmed. If she wasn't then he was going to have some problems in the near future.
As soon as Usui left he started towards the basement. Why would Misao go down there? Soujirou knew she was slightly claustrophobic, not to mention she had never shown any interest before. Maybe Usui was right and she had gone to talk to Shinomori. He didn't know if that made him feel any better. He knew that Aoshi wouldn't purposefully, physically hurt her, but the man was careless with his words.
Kamatari would just have to wait. Not that Soujirou even knew what he was going to do about that anyway.
He walked down the dim halls slightly annoyed. Misao certainly had interesting timing when she did things. Then he had to remind himself that she didn't do it on purpose, and somehow he had a feeling that Usui was involved in this.
About ten minutes into his search he ran across something rather peculiar.
Of course, the fact that she fiercely held a broom that was almost twice the size of her was hardly daunting. Still, how did a child get in here, and more importantly, why?
The child watched him solemnly, not making a sound.
"Why are you here Miss Megumi?" He asked. He probably should have just called her a little girl, but when it came down to it, he was going to have to take her in. There was no way she could run away from him anyway.
"Where's my Mommy." The child retorted, still not moving an inch.
"Is that who you are looking for?" Soujirou asked.
"You put 'Tari and Sano in a room."
Good lord, how did you explain something like this to a child? Why was he even thinking about this at all? He should just disarm the child, pick her up, and drag her back.
"Yes, I did."
She eyed him boldly, "Did you put Mommy in a room? I can't find her."
"How do you know your Mommy is here?" Soujirou reasoned.
Megumi looked at him patiently, "Who else would steal her?"
Steal…? Kidnap probably. Did all kids speak in riddles?
"I know nothing about your mother, but I cannot leave you down here by yourself. You should come with me."
"No, you're a bad guy. You locked up 'Tari and Sano." She said stubbornly and backed up. "Where's Mommy?"
"I do not know. You need to come with me before someone else finds you." Soujirou was at a loss. He wasn't really feeling like hefting the kid over his shoulder was going to get him anywhere, but if she remained stubborn he'd have to. Plus, he didn't know if he could actually protect her if someone took an interest. Either way, he'd have to keep her from wandering around further.
"No. You hurt 'Tari."
'Yes, you hurt the beloved 'Tari.' His inner voice chimed in darkly.
Well, here was a bright idea.
"Would you like to go see him?"
She eyed him shrewdly, "And Sano too?"
"Yes." Soujirou nodded, almost eager. This was pathetic. He was bowing down to child, but he really didn't want to hurt or scare her. Not that it seemed likely she would be scared, considering the way she was looking at him.
Anji would probably the only one of the Ten Swords that Soujirou would actually trust with a child. Plus, it would be easier if everyone were in one place. The girl would make excellent insurance against Kamatari trying something.
'Like you need it.' The voice chimed in, then added maliciously. 'Yes, let the child see what happens to traitors.'
"Okay." She said finally, "But you should be careful."
He gave her a puzzled smile as they walked back down the hall. "And why is that?"
"Mister Wolf will be coming. And Kenny and Hiko too."
Soujirou tried to ask more, but Megumi clammed up completely. In the end he was glad to hand her off to Anji, who thankfully asked no awkward questions, and went to find Misao.
Megumi stood quietly as the door shut behind her.
'Tari and Sano were both leaning up against the wall, asleep. She really didn't want to interrupt their naptime, but she needed help finding Mommy. Despite her bold words to the smiling guy, she wasn't all that confident in a rescue. She had decided that grown-ups were fickle. Didn't their mommies ever teach them to help others?
"Hey, Sweetie, I'd ask why you're here, but I don't think I want to know." 'Tari said softly, without moving, "Why don't you come over here with us and tell me about it? You just have to be quiet because Sano's sleeping."
She picked her way over carefully and nestled in between the two adults, for the first time since deciding to find Mommy, feeling safe. Sano's deep, even breaths reassured her that everything was okay and that she was with friends.
"Well? You're much too fearless Meg." 'Tari chided, stroking her hair slightly. He sounded sad.
She reached up and grabbed his hand. "Don't worry 'Tari." She said optimistically, "It'll be okay."
He gave her a washed out smile, "For you, I hope so."
Megumi narrowed her eyes. She didn't understand the words, but she could tell from his tone that he didn't believe her.
"Mommy's missing." She said without preamble. There wasn't any time to waste on silly things like that. "I came home from my friend's house and Mister Wolf was there. But he was talking to that big man, Hiko. They were fighting. Mommy would say they were being donkeys too. Anyway, someone took Mommy and Sissy's lost."
Kamatari sighed, "Usui, and probably Shinomori, although it doesn't seem his style. Still, he's pretty cuckoo if you ask me. You should have let Saitoh know you were there Meg. He'll be worried."
Sano made a snorting noise.
"Oh, how long have you been awake?"
"Uh, since Megumi came in." Sano grunted.
Kamatari blinked slowly, "You're rather calm considering."
"I'm fucking pissed to hell, but I can't fucking move, now can I? Tried some drugs once, a bit of this and that, didn't like it. Who fucking knows what's in my body right now. For all I know, they could have given me some shitty thing that eats flesh." Sano swore, not even bothering to watch his mouth. Megumi would have lectured him usually, but he looked hurt. "Your pals are pieces of work. She's just a little kid. They going to burn her at the stake too?"
Kamatari looked disturbed by that suggestion and glanced over to her with a frown, "No, I don't think so. She would probably be used in another way."
"You don't mean—that's sick!"
Kamatari smiled slightly and flicked his forehead, "You're the one with the sick mind. I was talking about ransom and deals." His frown returned and he scooted closer to her, effectively sandwiching her snuggly. "Besides, let them try to lay a finger on her."
She looked between them, noting the determination on their faces. Like they were making a silent promise. This was all well and good, but they needed to get out of this room. She had seen the big guy by the door. He looked strong. They needed a plan.
A/N: cringes Father Aoshi, forgive me for I have sinned! Two weeks without an update! twitch --' Seriously? I'm having some RL problems with work (joy), some motivation problems (related to work), and I was just plain stuck as to where to go (still am). Anyway, this is a sucky chapter and I'll probably redo it, but hey, it's an update right?
Fyyrrose: I'm sure you're enjoying your hell-weekend. I got dragged to the mall for clothes shopping (and talked my way into the bookstore ). I have a ton of stuff I haven't watched! I should watch 3x3 Eyes first, but I think I'll start on IY while I wait for Naruto Season 3. Closet pervert! lmao Ooo, off me? That's dangerous.
Cat fight! laughing Yer momma musta raised you in a barn because you act like an ass! Well, yer family must be a pack of wolves, considering your manners! I just can't see Hiko stooping that low --' Speaking of wolves glares I want the next PMK! 5 left off at an evil place x-( EVIL! wishes could read Japanese).Soujirou... he wouldn't make a good shrink. To be a shrink you have to understand peoples' behaviors and motives. He can't even figure out his own, poor guy. Heisuke... :) Brainwash? But it's so fun that Kenshin shattered his last link to sanity! Yes, Sano's very pissed... mushy? blinks This can't possibly scare you after the OxT moments in HS runs for the bathroom. Those make my stomach turn. Glad you liked the "fucking damsel in distress" blurb, I should put that in there. Then Ren can make a comment and Okita can stew . Sorry, I feel the need to give the guy some grief after reading PMK 4.
MissBehavin: Two prideful men who hate each other. Were you expecting anything else? Saitoh would definately be on his way. Hmm, thinks yes, Shishio's judgement. Won't that be fun?! Wow, I must be in a sadistic mood... I blame Dan and her PMK scans. Oh, and being dragged to the mall. Mall=clothes shopping=evil. Hmm, future... maybe. I would be rather cruel to take out two of my fav. characters, now wouldn't it? You know, that wasn't planned at all. It just happened. The Sano/Tari. (uh-huh, not planned at all...)