He, at least, hadn't intended to use Fuu as an emissary for testing the hospitality of locals, but he couldn't say the same for Mugen. When questioned about it, he would be most apt to agree that, yes, Mugen had probably intended that from the start and only planning to interfere if there promised to be a fight to throw them out. There was, of course, the possibility of free food that kept them all hopeful and willing to try just about anything.

The blind minstrel's performance had been haunting, something he'd missed and loved and took even more pleasure from when he noticed Fuu's utterly captured state. It was so very enjoyable to share such a fine appreciation for good tasteful entertainment with at least one member of their party. He knew Mugen was valuing the player, too, although his had more to do with the physical aspect of it.

The environment was too good to be true. Thugs had to ruin it. Mugen quickly took care of it before he'd even withdrawn the chopsticks from his lips. 'Had his reasons.' He nodded at this. It was true. Mugen would do anything for money, food, or skin. The hilt of his sword quickly found purchase in Mugen's face and he gave endless internal praise that Fuu was so charmingly reliable with her little shoe quickly finishing off the troublemaker over the head. At least he was on the same wave-length of the smarter of the two.

Something about this minstrel intrigued him and he listened closely to the questions asked by both him self and Mugen. The pout of Fuu's cheeks and lips were quite visible from the corner of his eyes and on some level her jealousy was adorable. But this Sara had a womanly air about her that initially drew his attention, although it was the taste of what could be danger he breathed off her that kept it. She just offered to pay for lodgings if they would allow her to travel with them. After having just said she was used to being alone for the entirety of her life? His eyes snapped over to watch her from the corners now. Her status had been upgraded to threat.

He was impressed when Fuu had noticed the owl charm and commented along with him on it. She had proven her observance yet again. He had to keep from smacking himself at Mugen's complete ignorance. It astounded him how such a superb swordsman – warrior, rather, for his lack of training – could be so stupid. And at the hot spring inn, another of his excursions had unveiled more information. He'd never met such an invulnerable woman? He was further alarmed at that, knowing to trust in Mugen's thoughts on prowess. And yet he had to wonder if Mugen didn't sometimes realize what he was really saying.

She wants to bring Sara and her son back together. While he believes in fate and how each person must undergo their own trials to fulfill or escape it, he did not believe in getting involved with Miss Sara. He told Fuu it was not their problem and that it was best not to. She persisted. Her naïve heart tugged at his. Oh, Fuu, if you only knew what was going on. Looking into her eyes from the side of his and over his tea, he could see she did not.

Her ideals of family were touching, painfully so. She was a caring person, a loving human, a good woman. The laughter of children entered his hearing and their crossing before them in chase of a pinwheel merchant drew his eyes from hers. He followed the small train. She would be a good mother. She would be a good wife.

"Are you listening?"

He heard the indignation in her voice but it failed to pull him from his thoughts. Rather, it only deepened and spurred them on. He knew she wouldn't live to see those things. Her innocence would prevent that and make her a victim of fodder to the abundant predators out there. She would need protection for that to come about.

The next village they entered was celebrating with a modestly sized evening festival. The atmosphere was cheerful and free yet Fuu had been falling behind for some time. What could be troubling her now? Mugen appealed to her for a toy for the child. Her non-committal response and uncharacteristic silence only deepened the lines in his brow, but he'd been completely unprepared for her sudden running off. What the hell? Had that just happened? He called after her. She wouldn't stop for that. He gave chase unthinkingly.

He found her zoned out on the bridge just outside the village. What was wrong, he'd asked. As if she could fool him with the pitiful attempt to hide her tears. Now he was worried. She gave her usual 'nothing' response but it was unnerving, this time. It'd been so obvious the previous times; she clearly meaning otherwise. Never before had she said it and meant it.

She put up her tough routine and he gave her credit for meeting his eyes and keeping her voice stern. She knew he wasn't fooled, could see it in his face as he could in hers. The tears came immediately and she turned away. She was stumbling over her words. There were things he wanted to do but wasn't sure if it would be appropriate, so all he could do was keep the ache inside and look on. The night was seen out with muted festivities.

The next morning's meal was still solemn, although Fuu seemed somehow determined. She wanted him to go with Sara? The choice was completely alien as he had no idea what she was talking about - that isn't to say that he didn't have his suspicions about what she was propositioned with when they were alone; Miss Sara was suspect, after all – but her reasonings could not be faulted.

He didn't trust Mugen, either. But this time, the lack of trust had to do with Mugen being caught unawares in the pursuit of bedding rather than a match-up of skills. Fuu had given them the best choice for an unknowing reason. Still, she had impressed him yet again with her abilities of deduction. She was very much indeed a good woman. He turned to the as of yet hidden enemy and calculated again. Yes, this was probably for the best. He agreed.

Had Fuu not expected him to? Weren't they on the same wavelength, even if she was unconscious of it? Isn't that why she had asked? She was upset. They parted at the crosswords. Fuu seemed to have resigned herself for the good of all and saw them off with a smile. He bade them farewell until they met up again, and turning, kept his eyes on Sara.

He had not at all been surprised when the first blade had been ejected and easily dodged it. Sara had not waited long to act. Perhaps she did not believe the others would come to help, that they could be of help, or maybe she didn't want to travel far to track them down. Was she even after them or just him? He had many sins to pay for.

She attacked once more. She had admirable skill. This was favorable. Now he wouldn't feel the need to hold back.

How did she know about Enshiro, his mentor? How was she able to dodge his strikes so fluidly? The bridge was giving way. He needed to drag her to solid ground. She charged again and he prepared to maneuver with his failing footing.

From Episode 20.