Chapter 1

A cold wind was blowing on that day when a man dressed all in black wandered into Tokyo on a horse. His movements were slow as if he was looking for something. The people stared at him because his cloths were so different from their kimono's and gi's. The other reason that people kept their distance was the huge sword strapped to his back. Everyone knew that swords had been outlawed in the Mejing era and people kept them home on fear of death.

The man didn't even seem to notice the looks he was getting from the people as he passed them by, his pace slow, as if he was looking for something… or someone. But someone happened to notice this man and didn't run away. In fact this person seemed very interested in this man and followed him with extreme stealth that only a master swordsman can accomplish.

The stranger turned down an alley way and stopped, the swordsman stopping also and dodging into a shadowed doorway, waiting to see what would happen next. But suddenly the stranger dismounted the horse and stood waiting. This puzzled the swordsman and he was shocked even more when the man spoke.

"I know you're there so come out," he said in a deep, stoic sounding voice that had the ache of years of hardship in it. His Japanese had a faint western accent to it that made it sound exotic and old.

The swordsman complied surprisingly and stepped from the shadows to come up a few feet behind the man, his hand resting on the butt of the katana hanging from his sash. The stranger towered at least a full foot over the swordsman, putting him around six feet tall or more. The man turned and his eyes widened suddenly under the shadow of his hat at the appearance of the other man.

The swordsman was very short with flaming red hair that hung past his waist and tied at the base of his neck with some kind of cord. He was looking up at the stranger with bright violet eyes that were almost child like in appearance and kindness. But what puzzled the man was the katana at the shorter mans side and how he had been able to follow him almost without being noticed. He looked too young and inexperienced to be able to handle the sword and posses such skills. The young man just smiled at him.

"Sorry about that, you were just attracting a lot of attention and seemed like you were lost. Maybe I can help you find what your looking for," he said cheerfully.

The man seemed to think this over and nodded slightly. He didn't know why but he trusted this little swordsman. He felt like a kindred spirit though his eyes protested otherwise.

"Come with me back to the dojo and I can see if we can help you, de gozoru," he said and turned, heading down another street, waiting at the corner. Surprised at the smaller mans offer, the stranger remounted his horse and followed. The surrounding crowd gave the two a few looks but quickly went back to their business upon seeing the smaller swordsman. The stranger considered this for a moment and followed the smaller man as he started off down the street.

"So, are you looking for someone or a place in particular?" the red head asked.

"Yes, both in fact."

"Ok, what place? I bet either myself or Karou-dono should be able to find the place."

"A small tavern by the waterfront, it should have a small silk shop next to it."

"Ah! I know the place, just follow me." he said before turning down a side street, heading for the waterfront district. The stranger gave a small nod and followed the red head. I have no idea where he's taking me, but for some reason I trust him to lead me to the right place. With an imperceptible shrug the stranger followed, wondering what this day would bring.

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Sorry for it being short as this is my first every fic.. enjoy!