This is the second part of 'Sustenance'. It's a bit longer, not quite what I'd hoped it to be, but eh. I'll come out with more drabbles that are hopefully better than this one. At least I'm having fun with this project! XD
I'll eventually have another follow-up to this one, when I get a chance to write it. Blegh.
Disclaimer: Rurouni Kenshin is the creative property of Watsuki Nobuhiro and all companies affiliated with its license.
Trodden Path
Rurouni Kenshin
by D. Reed
Sustenance II
Words came first, then pain. Stomachache.
"You're a fool, Takeshi. This man… he's a devil!"
"Oh hush, the poor boy's half-starved. He won't be killing anyone any time soon, at least not with that blunt sword he's carrying."
"Sakabatou," he heard his own voice croak. Twin ki jumped, flaring.
Eyelids slowly opened, painfully allowing light through as he adjusted to his surroundings. 'Takeshi' and his companion were nearby. There was a wet cloth on his forehead.
"Sakaba…tou?" Takeshi repeated.
Kenshin nodded slightly. "Reversed blade. Makes it harder to kill people with it."
A chuckle. "So, young man, what is your name?"
He hesitated, enough to cause a frown from Takeshi's companion. "Rurouni. I'm simply a wanderer, is all."
"Rurouni…" Takeshi glared sideways as his companion stalked out. "Well, Rurouni, I hope you like onigiri – my wife made extra. You look hungry."
Kenshin wryly half-smiled, stomach growling, thankful for rare kindness.
150 words.