AN- For a long time I have not updated my stories, but it does not mean that I have not thought about them or wrote part the chapters for any of them. Like I mention before I am on a tight schedule even though I don't have school to deal with for the time being. Personally I am sorry to all who have waited patiently for me to update. I hope this chapter will make up for it. As well I decided to thank you individually for leaving a review for chapter thirteen. It's a way to make up for making you for so long.
Also I reedit the previous chapters. So if you will like, you can go back to reading them for I have made miner changes as well as corrected my grammatical errors.
Arienishi- Thanks for leaving a review. I tried e-mailing you but I can't get your e-mail address from especially with me signed into my account and all. Sure you can link this to your site. Actually I'm honored that you like this story so to link it to your site: )
ayani63645- I'm glad you like this story. Yes I will continue this story for I plan not to abandon any of my fics. Right now I am having problems on finding inspiration though.
Hannah- Thanks for leaving a review although I will like to apologize for taking so long to update. I hope you will forgive me and that this chapter will make up for the delay.
royal blueKitsune- Wow! I'm so delighted to read your review! I'm honored that you like my stories. It really makes me feel like writing so much more knowing that I have you to push me to keep writing. I hope you will enjoy this chapter: )
EnigmaWings- I never heard of this Trust and Betrayal. Is that some kind of show or movie? I should find out more about it. And thanks for leaving a review I hope you like this chapter!
Kitsune- Inspiration is very hard to find if you don't have the right instruments to motivate you in the first place. Right now I seem to be lacking tools, however, I make sure to have a handy notebook with me at all times just in case I do get ideas or some form of inspiration to write.
inuken-lover- I am sorry to have you go on your hands and knees in order to get me to update. I apologize for taking forever to update, please find it in your heart to forgive me. I hope this chapter at least makes you feel satisfied until the next time I update. : )
kagomefan- As Kenshin would say, "Oro!" I thought cliffhangers were a good thing, you know keeping the readers interested in your stories. But it seems in this case you have lost your patience. Bows I am truly sorry for leaving you hanging for so long and hope you will continue to read this story.
NalaravatheRed- I'm truly touched that you like this story. I hope this story continues to capture your undivided attention, for it not an easy task. And I have to say Battousai and Kaoru are the best couple out there! I'm glad to have at least this story to add to the numerous fics on To read your words, leaves me a great feeling as a writer. To know that I have a reader anticipating for new chapters makes me want to write all the more. I'm glad you left that review and that I have compelled you to leave me that review. I hope this chapter comes out to your liking.
Immortal-Blood- Sorry about the cliffhanger, though you're not the only person who mentioned it. About your question, yes Kaoru feels remorse for kissing another man who is not Battousai. However, if you noticed the flashback I left behind in the last chapter about Anjana's death, you will notice Anjana slept with another man besides her husband. Putting aside the fact that she was a slave, she felt responsible for sleeping with another man and allowing that man to take liberties. Yet Kaoru's mother mentioned that a man would never take responsibility for sleeping with a woman if it meant his reputation and so a woman has the same right. Also she meant that sometimes love cannot satisfy everything bounded to the situations or environment that we are in and humans are not perfect creatures.
Jupiter's Light- I appreciate the fact that you find this story interesting and I will post more asap.
Chrissy E E- I apologize for making Kaoru seemed so submissive. The years have toughened her but as soon as Battousai hits the scene, all her resolve disappeared and vice versa with Battousai. Believe me when I do say that I love Kaoru's character because it seems so human, where the creators who created Kaoru made her with flaws and not like most female anime characters. However I'm tired of reading the same thing about Kaoru all the time so I decided to write this story where, depending on their situation and environment, the characters are different.
Kenshin13- Gosh! I didn't mean to have you waiting throughout the summer. Now I feel bad because I have not updated for almost a year. Gomen! All I ask is that you forgive me and I hope that this chapter makes you feel a tiny bit better if not a lot.
Dragon and Sword Master- I hope you like what I have store in this chapter. Until then enjoy!
ixchen- I noticed you leave me reviews for almost every single chapter I posted. I will like to thank you for that and for personally reading my stories:)
rain angst- I'm glad you like and hope you like this chapter too:)
lsq- I'm glad you consider this a good story. It really puts light to my heart to know you like this story. I will continue to update asap.
kik-ting- A great novel? Really, did I leave such an impression on you with the last chapter? I'm glad that you really liked the last chapter. Personally I think it's the best chapter I've written so far. I only hope you can like this chapter as much as you like the last chapter. You really left me smiling ne:)
Kao-gurl- I'm glad I have you wanting new chapters however I can't guarantee the fact that Kenshin will be nice to Kaoru all the time.
Hentaikoneko- I'm glad you love this fic! I feel delighted knowing that this is the reader's favorite story!
blue-katana-girl- I've updated at last! However I apologize for taking so long, I only hope you will find it in your heart to forgive me. I hope you like this chapter ne!
DISCLAIMER: I don't own Rurouni Kenshin series. I wish I did, but I don't. : (
Assistance
Chapter Fourteen
In the poorly lit room, dust over clouded the little furniture, stifling the room and the inhibitor within it. Crouching in uncomfortable position due to the ropes binding his hands and feet, Yahiko futilely attempted to reach the small candle lit so precariously near the doorframe. Knowing the consequences for his action, he decided that he rather be caught at trying to escape then awaiting his death. Where are the others when you need them?
The plan was to burn his bindings free. If he got there, he risked the door sliding open on him or the small candle burning his already tender skin. Tired from crying and cowering from the men who took his parents lives, Yahiko planned to face them in battle. If only he could be freed from his bindings. Someone had to forewarn the dangers awaiting Kaoru. By discerning the arrangement made to capture her, they would truly succeed. Misao knew precious information and sold it out to them with little regard for their will being. Traitor! Yahiko muttered in his mind. How he yearned to harm her physically instead of using foul words. Although he did not know Kaoru for long, he felt a close bond to her. What kind of woman would open her arms to a complete stranger, furthermore an orphan boy?
They better not harm her! His body tensed as he heard quiet footsteps trailing his way. Closing red stained eyes, his head fell limply to his knees. Upon hearing the door slide open, a slim figure walked through the door and examined the room. Automatically, a soft gasp echoed through the silent room. Recognizing the gasp, Yahiko lifted his head, snarling his disgust at her. His hatred displayed freely in his dark eyes.
The slim figure rushed at his feet. Taking her knife out from her side, she unhesitatingly freed him from his bindings. Then with haste retreat Yahiko flew toward the door, meaning to lock her in the room when she grabbed his gi from behind. Restraining his movement, the slim figure hugged his form, mumbling incoherent words.
Then at last, she spoke sensible words. "I did not know. I thought they would get you later, not now."
"You traitor!" Yahiko yelled. But as quickly as he yelled, her hands covered his mouth.
"If you shout again, they will catch us," said Misao. Yahiko only struggled fiercely against her hold. "Look, I will let go if you promise not to yell again."
Knowing Yahiko had no choice, he agreed. Feeling sweaty hands removed from his mouth, Yahiko wiped his mouth with the back of his hands. "How can I trust you? You sold us out to them, " Yahiko said vehemently.
Misao sensing distrust raised her hands as a meaning of peace. "I swear I did not want you or Kaoru getting hurt," answered Misao with remorse in her eyes. "My job was to observe the surroundings of the dojo and the people residing there, especially one."
"Who is that?" asked Yahiko scrutinizing her as if afraid to trust her.
"The infamous Battousai."
"What!" exclaimed Yahiko. He almost choked on his astonishment.
"Yes, we believe that Battousai is residing in Kamiya residence for sometime now," confessed Misao truthfully.
"That can't be. Battousai is not there. I never saw him when I stayed there." Denying that possibility, he looked away and transfixed his gaze at the door.
"Well he is there and that is the only reason Lord Shishio and the others are eager to attack the dojo. If his presence did not strike the dojo you and Kaoru would be safe from harm."
"Forget that. We have too get out of here and warn Kaoru or at least try to help her," said Yahiko now concerned for her well-being. Misao feeling the same emotion grabbed his hand and ran out the room.
"I swear Yahiko I never wanted Kaoru to get hurt. To prove to you what I say is true I will be willing to offer my assistance as well as my life to save Kaoru." With those words, both figures ran out into the darkness of the house. Both hoping they won't be detected along the way. Forgive me Aoshi.
Trees swayed back and forth through the restless night. Leaves scurried in the direction of the wind, while scuffling noises disturbed the presence of both men. One tall man dressed all in white, a bandana wrapped around his forehead, and white bandages wrapped around his abdomen signifying to his opponents his worth as a street fighter awaited his reward from the other man.
Ramming the pockets of his western suit, Enishi pulled out a bag of coins while looking at Zanza man intently through his sunglasses. The sunglasses did not deter him from seeing perfectly in the dark. Scanning Zanza for hidden signs of betrayal he questioned him.
"Was the mission completed?"
"Mission completed. I waited for everyone to leave the Kamiya residence except for little Missy. While doing her chores I snuck into her kitchen and laced her tea with the drug. It should have took affect when the Police Commissioner arrived unexpected at the Dojo gates." A wicked smile tugged the corners of the street fighter's mouth.
"With her defenses weakened I could take make my move." Proud of the successful mission, Enishi tossed the bag of coins in the air knowing that Zanza's fast reflexes would catch the bag immediately.
"If I may ask, what is so special about the little Missy?"
Enishi turned with a diabolic grin on his face. "She seems to know how to attract unwanted attention."
With that answer, Zanza left. Being as perceptive as he was, he decided to stick around the dojo to observe the outcome of the game being played.
Wandering through the endless roads of Tokyo, Soujiro stopped to catch his breath. Walking to old homes of people he knew before going off to war, he found no useful information. Even leaving Tokyo area to visit a friend who lived between Kyoto and Tokyo brought him no fortunate news.
Feeling hopeless of the situation he decided it was finest idea to go the dojo. He and Kaoru would go out in the morning to gather any new information on the whereabouts of Yahiko. May he be alive and well?
Passing through the familiar street it was as if faith felt sorry for the misfortune Soujiro arrived at since the beginning of his journey. Right before him, he stumbled across Dr. Gensai, the local doctor who assisted Kaoru's father with patching wounds on the boys from the dojo, however that was a long time ago.
Apologizing to the elder man, Soujiro dusted his hakama lightly and waited for the doctor to recognize him. Nonetheless with his dark hair falling before his eyes, he knew the old man would have trouble in identifying him.
The doctor just gazed at him for a second, accepted the apology while muttering his excuses to run off in a hurry. Before Dr. Gensai could return to the clinic, Soujiro hailed him. "Dr. Gensai!"
Warily turning to the stranger Dr. Gensai asked. "Do I know you?"
"Very funny of you to forget to me." Soujiro ran a hand through his hair, removing the long strands that fell before his eyes.
"Wait I do know you." The doctor raised his hand to his chin while his face looked deep in thought. "I'm afraid old age has caught me officially."
Laughing whole heartily at the situation, Soujiro bowed low. "I'm Soujiro Seta. I trained with Mr. Kamiya before being drafted to fight in their honor at the war."
Light flickered in the elder man's eyes. "Yes, yes I do remember you. Kaoru missed you deeply and forever talked about you."
Genially smiling at hearing Kaoru's name, the men felt the tension between them simmer. "She was disappointed when I took the responsibility in fighting the war for the Kamiya family. She insisted that no one should fight in a war that took lives."
"Yes that does sound like our innocent and naïve Kaoru." Then a sudden noise jerked both men from their position. Running to where the noise came from, two little girls were sprawled out on the clinic's floor. Coughing fitfully over the rise of dust, both the young girls got onto their feet and ran to their Grandfather. Little Suzame began crying, claiming she was at fault.
"There, there you shouldn't cry," Dr. Gensai, said lightly. "The most important thing is that you didn't get a booboo."
The tiny girl looked up at Soujiro and smiled. Her watery eyes were so bright from the dimmed candles in the clinic. "Who are you?"
"Shush, you're being rude," replied the other girl who appeared to be her older sister.
"It's okay." With a bow, Soujiro took his time to introduce himself. "Soujiro Seta is my name. I am nothing but a mere wanderer who travels from place to place."
"So you don't have a place called home?" the older girl asked him.
"For now I am staying at Kamiya's dojo. I consider that place my home."
"You know Kaoru!" the younger girl exclaimed.
"Yes we are old friends. Actually she's more like a little sister to me."
"She's like our older sister, always telling us to be careful and playing with us whenever we visit her. But sadly we can't see her," said the older girl.
"How many times Ayame and Suzame must I tell you it is unsafe for you to visit her with all the chaos happening these days," replied Dr. Gensai sternly. Shaking his head in disapproval, both girls bowed and left to enter the clinic.
"Is it unsafe for them to be out on the streets?" Soujiro asked innocently. Tilting his head to one side, he gazed at the older man.
"You haven't heard?" Dr. Gensai stared at the clinic where the girls were. "There's danger here. I presume you know of Yahiko's story."
"No, he has not told us what happened in detail. All we know is three assassins murdered his parents."
Dr. Gensai looked astonished for a moment before continuing. "What I tell you is something truly important. I trust you because of all the good things I heard from Kaoru."
Soujiro nodded his head.
"Throughout my years in Tokyo, conversing and knowing people, I knew which were the special ones. Those who were employed with the government secretly lived here in Tokyo. They were one of the reasons the war came to an end. They assisted Japan with the changes to a peaceful era. However, that did not last long. It was rumored that a source leaked out from within the government identifying that particular reason the war came to an end along with the people responsible for making it possible."
Soujiro gazed at the clinic. "Those girls are not really your grand daughters?"
Dr. Gensai smiled sorrowfully. "Their parents were among those who were assassinated earlier. Because their parents were not known among the towns people here, the murder was not taken seriously."
Soujiro then knew the reason for Dr. Gensai's melancholy.
"It is good in a way. The girls are safe for no one except me can identify their parents had daughters. It keeps the assassins at bay."
Soujiro dawned in comprehension.
"However, the real threat is yet to come. I believe that you and Kaoru are looking into this case the wrong way."
"Care to explain."
"The real threat is under your nose. All you have to do is open your senses and you will have the answer before you. Just don't take too long because time is not an option."
Heeding Dr. Gensai's words, Soujiro bowed and then ran down the street. Making turns here and there, Soujiro absorbed the information revealed to him earlier. Those people were killed for working in the government. Did the government hire the assassins to finish them off? Did the government wish to dispose of them after they were no longer useable? How did the information leaked out from the government resources? There must have been a traitor amidst. What did Dr. Gensai mean that the real threat is yet to come? Yahiko was caught. No signs of his dead body anywhere, which means he still has to be alive. There was no note declaring any demands. No one else besides Kaoru knew the boy dwelled in the dojo unless… Misao.
She stood in her place, her mind refused to digest her environment. One minute she was mourning her mother's death, the next she stood before him, before the man she loved. How could she tell him the truth? How could she state the fact that she betrayed him? Life can be so cruel and here she was trapped with no way out. If there was a way she could make him understand, she would do so.
Then it happened, it all came into play. The wind blew roughly against her skin. Her raven hair blew in front her face, where it covered the realization that hit her eyes. The answer was in front of her all along. To save the people... to save her friends... to save her loved ones... to save him she had to...
"Did you hear a word I said," declared a hard, unforgiving voice from the distance. Kaoru broke from her trance, her timid sapphire eyes, clashed with boiling hot amber eyes. How to explain? Where to begin?
The wind continued to blow mercilessly, the howl screeched into the air. The cemetery reeked with eeriness. Yet from the wind, Kaoru could have swore she heard something, like a voice that spoke to her alone. You alone know what you must do.
"Kaoru," said her lover's voice. He broke her from her trance once again. Without any sudden warning, Kaoru found Battousai in front of her. His large frame blocked her smaller frame, his body language spoke of dominance. His non-gentle hands squeezed her forearms as he shook her hard to reach her senses. The wind screeched louder, if possible. Her hair whipped in his face, as her eyes strained to see him. The swelling from her heart increased with pain, making her cry out so loud. She wanted to yell more then anything. She wanted to give herself into the dark. The storms that once brew inside her were brewing again. This time it was not the death of her mother that caused this grief inside to grow, but him. Her love for him was too strong, even for him to...
You know what you must do. You alone know...
"Know what!" Kaoru cried. And then the wind stopped, the air became still as the night returned to it's normal state. Trembling violently, Kaoru looked up a little to see the violent rage of her beloved Battousai.
Would he ever love you the same? You are to blame as your other lover. You are just as bad as he.
Kaoru scanned her surroundings. Her ki increased to such a high level, that Battousai felt it. His eyebrows rose in question, yet his rage never wavered from his boiling amber eyes. How to explain? Where to begin?
Then with finality in his voice, Battousai spoke, "Kaoru, you never answered my question."
To both of their astonishment, Kaoru backed away from him. Her body still trembling made it harder for her to support her weight on two feet. Humiliatingly, she placed her hand on a nearby tree, to prevent herself from becoming a heap on the muddy ground.
Do you see the way he is looking at you now? His eyes are full of doubt and rage. Do you think he could ever love you? You are nothing but...
"I don't love you," Kaoru whispered. Her sapphire eyes never gazed at him. Instead the muddy ground became her primary interest.
"What?" Battousai said fiercely. He never had to raise his voice. Kaoru knew that his soft, deadly tone was enough to make anyone stop what he or she was doing to listen to him. His voice alone spoke of death. "Look into my eyes and tell me you don't love me."
Without hesitation, Battousai saw her sapphire eyes look up at him. There was no hint of prevarication in her eyes. No sign in body language that gave to any falseness in her next words.To Battousai's horror, she truly meant her upcoming words.
"Battousai, I don't love you."