Author's Note: Happy Lunar New Year, everyone! At last, the whole gang's here! Now that I've reworked the plot, this is the halfway point of the story. As always, please let me know what you think.

The train's steady rocking caused him to nod off once or twice, but the sun, cresting over the horizon, kept him awake for good. The sky changed colors, from light purple to intense orange to gentle blue. As he watched, he massaged the back of his neck. It had taken a while to settle in his futon last night, and his muscles were somewhat sore.

Takani had been lightly dozing, and she stirred when the light poured in through the window. She yawned, covering her mouth with one hand. "Did you not sleep, Kamiya-san?"

"On and off. We still have some time before we arrive."

"Oh, I can't anymore. I should be ready to work once we disembark."

"I did hear Sagara-san might have done something that will upset you."

She clicked her tongue. "Typical!" After a moment, she asked. "Did you hear anything else?"

Mixed feelings. "Nothing medical."

Her lips pursed in suspicion. "Anything that would upset you?"

"I have no reason to be upset."

"Hmm. Your arm's length rule is funny." She remarked. "But otherwise, I've noticed Kaoru has a lot of freedom in her life."

"I'm her father but she is her own person. Above all, I trust her and she knows if I don't like something, I will be honest."

She gave a bittersweet smile. "You and my father would have gotten along. He was very progressive, like the rest of our clan. Men and women alike were encouraged to study medicine. My father was direct too, he always believed patients deserved the truth. I forgot that, over the years."

"I think your father would be happy that you're in a better place now, doing good work."

She did not reply to that, turning her face slightly away. "I've been thinking of going back to Aizu." She slowly said. "Not right now, it hasn't been finalized, but I am looking for a job there."

"Do you miss your home?"

"A little, yes." She hesitated. "I want to search for my mother and brothers. I know it's probably unlikely they survived, it's been a decade. However, Dr. Gensai told me about what happened to you and how you turned out to be alive. So…"

"I understand. Would you like me to help? I can send a message to the department there and see if they have any information."

"Would you?!" Her eyes widened before she forced herself to be composed. She interlaced her trembling fingers. "I…I would be very grateful."

"It's no problem. I should have done so earlier. Although I must warn you, it might not be good news."

Her expression was wry. "I'm a doctor. I'm used to bad news and I'd rather know for certain."

He nodded. "Yes, that's true. Can you give me any information?"

She opened one of her books, flipping to a blank section and writing in earnest. "My mother. My oldest brother, and my second older brother. I can give you their dates of birth, and here is our former address. They disappeared, during a fire at Wakamatsu Castle. Do you need anything else?"

"It should be enough to start with. Don't tear out the pages now, I'll investigate when we return to Tokyo. Just in case I forget, please remind me."

"I will. Thank you, Kamiya-san." Her hair fell forward as she bowed at the waist. When she was upright again, she discreetly wiped at her eyes and Koshijiro pretended not to notice. Outside, the landscape blurred past in shades of green.

When their last train slowed to a hissing halt, it was already mid-morning. Asking for directions, they made their way to the Aoiya. The streets slowly revealed destruction, fallen debris littered about and scorch marks upon walls. Then, there were wooden support beams propping up buildings, and round pits in the streets. Koshijiro stopped. What was supposed to be their destination was half destroyed.

"Hey! You got here fast!" Yahiko approached them, rigidly waving. Bandages wound around his head and disappeared down his neck. He was keeping his torso straight; he must have suffered an injury.

"It's good to see you." Koshijiro reached out to steady his shoulder. "Are you alright?"

"Yeah, I'm fine." He grinned. "The Aoiya is worse off."

"That's certainly true. Where is everyone else?"

"At the Shirobeko. Uh…" His expression became serious. "Sano's okay but Kenshin was hurt really bad. Some doctors were brought in last night, but they haven't left yet."

That caught Takani's attention and they followed him to the restaurant. "I thought Kaoru said you were all safe! And you should be resting!" She said indignantly.

"Well, we are safe, we're not getting attacked. And um, I wrote the telegram. Kaoru hasn't left Kenshin's bedside, so she told me to send a message. We figured you both would be here soon, no matter what I'd say, so I just tried to keep it short. Those things are expensive! By the way, how did you make it in one day? Last time, it took three to get to Kyoto."

Koshijiro provided the explanation. "There was a fight between two gangs, and I was compensated for additional interrogations and paperwork in the aftermath. I was able to pay for the extra expense to take the new railroad route from Yokohama to Kobe. It was luck that we met at the Aoiya."

"Yeah, I was tired of lying around. I volunteered to get some info, so they can start rebuilding."

Takani wasn't pleased. "I'll examine you later, and I'll have a word with whoever let you go."

Fortunately, the Shirobeko was no worse for the wear and after greeting Sae, they walked to the second floor. One room was bustling with activity; Takani rolled up her sleeves and joined the fray, introducing herself as Himura's doctor from Tokyo. The door closed behind her, and although Koshijiro strained to look, he was unable to see past the huddled group to find any trace of his daughter or Himura. He considered going in but couldn't think of how he could help. It was best to leave the professionals to their work and Yahiko led him back down the stairs, to find a quiet spot in the yard.

"Do you wanna know what happened?" The boy was eager to divulge the battle in Kyoto. It was a long one, full of action and daring feats. "I took down this guy with wings!"

Some parts were difficult to swallow at first, but he trusted Yahiko. He tended to exaggerate, but he was honest. After his initial fight with Shishio's second, Kenshin had received a new sakabato from the son of the original swordsmith. This was technically crafted with the first, and it had been the version given to the gods. Now, it would do well in Himura's hands. Shishio's naval attack had been thwarted by Himura, Saito, and Sagara; the city was defended by the others, along with the numerous policemen. Yahiko had picked up one of Himura's moves and used it to claim victory over his opponent.

"You figured it out from watching him?"

"Yeah, but I had to practice in secret, since it's not Kamiya Kasshin. Kaoru knows now, though."

"I'm impressed. You've become an excellent student, just within this year."

"Thanks. I want to get stronger, to fight with everyone." He gave a toothy smile. He had matured a little since Koshijiro had last seen him. "Kaoru also took down one of Shishio's gang. Her shinai broke, but she kept fighting and won!"

"Did she? I'd like to tell her she did a good job." He glanced up at the building. He hoped she was alright, as was Himura.

"She wasn't hurt too bad, and Kenshin will make it. They'll be okay, Kamiya-san." Yahiko was very certain of this, or perhaps, he was trying to convince himself too. "And then, Kenshin and Sano-"

"Someone say my name?" At the familiar voice, they turned. Sagara was in even worse shape than Yahiko, with twice as many bandages and his face badly bruised. His right hand was rendered immobile in a sling, and his left fingers were wrapped up as they lifted in greeting. If this was 'okay' in Yahiko's mind, what condition was Himura in? "Hey, old man."

"Sagara-san, how are you?"

"Still kicking." He grinned. "Fox is here too?"

"She's upstairs with the other doctors."

"Right." His good humor evaporated, and he trudged over, exhaling loudly as he sat on the back steps. "Kenshin'll be fine, he definitely will. Now that the fox is helping out, he's in better hands. Anyway, what were you talking about?"

"I was telling him about our fights!" Yahiko supplied. "But I didn't mention your new punching technique yet."

"Leave that to me." He spun a tale of wandering in the forest, which led to a fateful instructive meeting with a monk. The new technique was essentially a double punch, resulting in increased destructive force. Unbeknownst to Sagara at the time, his teacher was one of Shishio's comrades. It made for a bittersweet duel in the final battle, and the monk, Anji, had willingly turned himself in.

One by one, the rest of the Ten Swords fell, either in Kyoto or defending their leader, and Shinomori had settled his grudge with Himura in their own match. The story reached its climax with a four-way fight against Shishio. It had been vicious, with Himura using the succession technique of Hiten Mitsurugi, and ended with the other man succumbing to his burns in the prolonged battle. Even after sacrificing his lover, Shishio had died laughing in an inferno.

By the time the story reached its end, it was lunchtime. Sae urged them inside, and as they sat down, Koshijiro realized that there was someone he hadn't seen yet. He glanced around, craning his head. No sign of him at all, not even a hint of cigarette smoke.

"Where is the assistant chief inspector?"

Neither of them responded at first, exchanging glances. Yahiko stalled. "Uh…"

"We don't know." Sagara said. "Last time I saw him, it was after Shishio went up in flames. Saito just walked back in, but I don't think he died!"

Koshijiro didn't believe so either, but he wondered what he was going to tell Tokio. "It's possible he had some work to finish, for whatever the Minister wanted him to accomplish. If he hasn't returned by tomorrow, we can try to look for him."

"Yeah, I'll lead the way. Sounds like a plan, old man."

The atmosphere remained tense, and Koshijiro was unable to savor much of his meal, though he encouraged the boys to eat and recover their strength. After the dishes were cleared away, he intended for a short stroll outside.

The strong aroma of sake was the first thing he noticed. Leaning against the restaurant's wall, a tall man was drinking out of a jug. His coat was draped over his shoulders, his long hair in disarray. He wiped his mouth, and his dark gaze landed on Koshijiro.

"So, my idiot apprentice has more people from Tokyo to visit?"

Koshijiro politely ignored the modifier. "Your apprentice?"

"Yes, the idiot who hasn't woken up yet." He briefly jerked his head towards the building.

"I'm afraid Himura-san is still unconscious."

"Hm." He took another pull, the liquid sloshing. "How do you know him?"

"Himura-san has been living with us. I'm Kamiya Koshijiro."

"Ah. You're the tanuki girl's father."

"...tanuki girl?"

"The kenjutsu master, who my idiot apprentice is besotted with." He lifted his hand to his chin, with a smug smile. "Her face reminds me of a tanuki."

Koshijiro was at a loss to interpret any of that.

"Anyway," The stranger continued. "I am Hiko Seijuro, the Thirteenth Master of Hiten Mitsurugi. And as it seems, most likely the last."

"He isn't dead."

"I didn't mean it like that."

Kaoru's letters had not described him in great detail, but Himura's teacher really was a strange person. Assuming he'd only obtain more questions than answers, Koshijiro opted for another subject. "I heard that you helped protect the city. Thank you for your effort."

"I only came since it was a request." His eyes darted to the upper floor again. "I had to get supplies anyway, they still haven't been delivered yet. Speaking of which…" Abruptly, he straightened and corked his jug.

"Do you need any help?"

"It's nothing I can't handle on my own. How'd you lose the arm?"

What a blunt question! Even Hayashi's son was more tactful, and at least, he had the excuse of childhood innocence. "…Satsuma." He left it ambiguous to whether it was last year or during the Bakumatsu.

"Hm. This is why I stay out of politics." Before Koshijiro could respond, he was already stepping out of the alley. Hand lifting in farewell, Hiko walked into the main street without even swaying. The entire encounter had left Koshijiro feeling off-balance, not helped by the overt smell of liquor, and he made his way in the opposite direction.

The other swordsman was still gone when he returned, though something was clearly different within the Shirobeko. Sagara had dozed off and Yahiko had acquired an inkbrush, which was paused in midair between them.

"This…this isn't what it looks like!" He protested.

Koshijiro suppressed a sigh. "Is it a message you can't put down on paper?"

"Well, he has 'evil' on his back, so I thought he'd like it on his sling too."

"Let's ask him when he wakes up. For now, you can practice."

They must have been too loud, because Sagara snorted and lifted his head. "What's going on?" Upon Yahiko's admission, he readily agreed to the addition. "Hell yeah, you can. Thanks!"

"Sure, I'll start right now!" He aimed for the white cloth.

"Wait a second. Do you know how to write the character?"

"I've seen it so many times."

"Seeing is not the same as practicing." Koshijiro added. "It's the same with kenjutsu."

"You're right, old man." Sagara took his side. "Come on, Yahiko, get some paper."

Grudgingly, the younger boy began to draft his rendition of 'evil'. Sae approached with a fresh pot of tea and rice crackers, inquiring about her sister and the Tokyo branch. The conversation was a good distraction for a number of minutes.

At last, footsteps echoed from upstairs; the doctors were leaving. Their expressions were not grim, but not totally satisfied either. After they filed out, he heard her voice first.

"Thank you again, Megumi."

"We're far from finished. It'll be a long road of recovery ahead, and he has a very high risk of infection. If it weren't for the full hospital beds, I would have transferred him to the closest one. The next few days will be critical." Takani warned, as she descended to the lower floor.

And then, there was Kaoru, following behind her. "I know. I just wish there was more I could do."

"You've done well until now, and unless I call you again, your presence is enough." The doctor briskly nodded, and then in the direction of Koshijiro. "I'm sure your father will agree."

Immediately, her face lit up. "Otou-san!" She rushed over to embrace him, and he held her tight. It felt like it had been years since he had last seen her. "I'm happy you're here!"

"So am I. You look tired, Kaoru."

"I'm fine." She argued. There were dark circles under her eyes from lack of sleep, and her hair was mussed. He laid the back of his hand against her forehead. She wasn't feverish but she obviously needed rest. Grumbling, she did her best to glare at him. "Geez, I said I was fine."

"I heard you, I only wanted to be certain. It's been six weeks."

She smiled. "Otou-san, you were lonely, weren't you?"

He deliberately cleared his throat. "We've just finished lunch, but I can order anything you'd like." She had supposedly eaten a late breakfast and claimed not to be hungry, but she sat down with relief. When Koshijiro pushed the rice crackers toward her, she did grab a handful.

"Ken-san has been stabilized, and two of the Oniwabanshuu are watching him in the meantime. I don't know when he'll wake up." Takani informed them as she took a seat. "I will not lie, his condition is serious and we're treating it as such. We'll keep a close eye."

"Thanks for letting us know. Drink up, you deserve it." Sagara nodded at the teapot.

"Oh? I won't refuse-what?" Her gaze had followed his sling and she gave a cry of horror upon noticing his right hand. "What did you do?!"

"Sorry." He said without a trace of regret. "I learned something new."

"Being foolish isn't exactly new for you, rooster head."

"Hey!"

As they sniped back and forth, Kaoru exclaimed. "I almost forgot! Misao should be finished soon with her recon, and she wanted an update. She said she'll be going through the back." With that, she stood and hurried through the dining area.

Koshijiro followed suit, and by the time he caught up, his daughter was greeting another girl around her age. She was shorter, her hair in a long braid, and her garb was designed for maximum mobility. She had a familiar face…recognition struck him.

"Otou-san, this is Makimachi Misao."

"Nice to meet you!" She bowed in greeting, and he certainly remembered that cheeky voice.

"Thank you for hosting my daughter and her friends. But I believe we've met before, in Tokyo." He said meaningfully.

A beat followed, as the girl scrutinized him. Then, her jaw dropped. "Oh. Ohhh. I did, uh, borrow your wallet."

"Misao!" Kaoru was appalled. "You were the girl who stole from Otou-san?"

"I didn't know, and I was running low on cash! Sorry!" She held up her hands, palm to palm in apology.

"It's alright. I believe you've fully repaid with your hospitality. Although, it would be wise to refrain from stealing again."

"For sure, I don't need to anymore. I'm home again, and so is Aoshi-sama." At this, her smile dropped. "Physically at least."

"Are you speaking of Shinomori-san?" The last time Koshijiro had seen that man in person, he had broken into the dojo. He had followed a meandering path since then, but he must have changed for the better.

"Yeah…he's been hurt too, but he doesn't talk at all. It's the emotional pain, I think."

"That takes time, even longer than the physical."

"I guess." She gave a heavy sigh disproportionate to her petite frame.

Kaoru clasped her shoulder. "Misao, why don't we get Megumi and my father settled in?"

"True, that's something we can do. It'll keep our minds off worrying about the men we love." With renewed purpose, she bounded into the restaurant.

He gave his daughter a very pointed look. "And what exactly did she mean by that?"

Kaoru furiously blushed. "Otou-san, let's talk later, okay?" And then, she rushed after Makimachi.

So far, people here had been hinting at something, but now this! This response was entirely unfamiliar, and he felt like his feet had been kicked out from under him. What on earth had happened while they were in Kyoto…?!

Somehow, he processed that he was assigned to the same room as Sagara and Yahiko, while Takani would join the girls. Space was cramped, but they had to make do. While his futon was set up, Kaoru had slipped into Himura's room again, to his frustration. Later, indeed.

Makimachi introduced him to the rest of the Oniwabanshuu, four young men and women with variable injuries but equally bright smiles. They referred to her as their leader, which caused her to turn crimson. "That's me, the Okashira. Haha!"

Her reaction was odd, and Koshijiro inquired. "Did you not want the position?"

"No, I do. That's why I took it, when Aoshi-sama…well, he wasn't in his right mind and I stepped in. I'm still not used to directing everyone yet. But don't think I'll quit! I'll embrace this responsibility, and lead the Oniwabanshuu into a new era!"

A new voice entered the conversation. "Well said, Misao!" Walking up to them, an older man stroked his gray beard. His bandaged shoulder concealed wounds of his own; this must have been Okina. "That determination is exactly what we need. And is this another of Himura-san's friends?" After the usual pleasantries, he added. "Himura-san mentioned you."

"Did he?"

"He said you were our trusted ally for the second line of defense in Tokyo, if we happened to fail here."

Koshijiro glanced back at the too-quiet room. "I'm glad it didn't have to come to that."

"I feel the same way." He smiled kindly. "Have faith in him, Kamiya-san. I was also on the precipice and I pulled through, even at my age. Himura-san will wake when he's ready."

Okina then spoke to Makimachi, of what seemed to be innocent errands but the deliberate phrasing made Koshijiro suspect it was code for internal matters. It was clear that he was nudging her into her role, presenting the decisions suitable for a leader to resolve; she was initially nervous but stood her ground. At the end, he was satisfied with her choices and she seemed bolstered. Saying that he'd see them around, the spy left to fulfill his duties.

Makimachi gave another heavy sigh. "Now, what to do, about Aoshi-sama. Oh! Maybe, he'd talk to you. Could you try?"

"I only met him briefly, and you know him best. At the moment, I believe he needs space." Koshijiro then suggested. "You could write notes to him. My wife and daughter did so, when I was struggling in the past."

"Notes, huh. That's a pretty great idea, I can slide them into his room." She beamed. "Thanks, Kamiya-san! I think I saw the ink and paper downstairs."

As she grabbed the materials and ran, he remained in the dining area. Sagara and Yahiko were passing the time, playing a game of Go.

"How is he?" Sagara spoke out of the corner of his mouth, as he moved to capture a few white stones.

"Nothing new, as of yet."

"But Kenshin is the strongest in Japan." Yahiko insisted. "And he got some of Megumi's medicine we brought, so that should help."

"Did Kaoru give it to him?"

"Yeah, while they were talking on the rooftop."

"Talking on the rooftop?" Koshijiro repeated, and the boy immediately clamped a hand over his mouth. "Why were they there?"

"Er…um…" His eyes were roving about. "They were sitting next to each other and talking really quietly, so it seemed serious. Like, they were gonna kiss or something…"

What?

"Come to think of it," Sagara mused as he rolled a black stone between his left fingers. "Kenshin said something weird while we were in Shishio's base. He thought he heard Jou-chan's voice, and he felt better even if he only imagined it."

What?

"And she was crying a lot when we came back, saying 'please don't die, Kenshin, stay with me'." His voice hit a terribly executed falsetto. "She wouldn't let go of his hand until the doctors came. Ah, oops. Sorry, old man, maybe you shouldn't have-"

But he was already walking away. Before dinner began, he intended to have that conversation with Kaoru. She wasn't in the girls' room, only Takani was. She was in the middle of combing her hair and anticipated what he would ask.

"Are you looking for Kaoru? She's still in his room." She coolly said.

"Thank you, Takani-san." He paused. "And thank you for your work today."

"That's what I can do for him. Apparently, Kaoru really helped overnight as well."

"What do you mean?"

"It's a fairly new practice in Japan. When someone loses blood, they can receive more from another person, but there are limitations and it can be dangerous. We're still figuring it out. However, some people can give blood without fear of hurting someone. Kaoru is one of those people, she said she found out last year. With how much he'd already lost, there was no time to test Ken-san, so it was good to know that about her. Ken-san couldn't have been stabilized so quickly if she wasn't here."

He considered this new information. "I didn't know. Did you give him any blood as well?"

"I'm not in the same category as Kaoru. So, my expertise is all I can do for him." Recognizing the double meaning of her own words, her rouged mouth twisted and she resumed pulling the comb through. It was best to leave her alone.

The door was slightly ajar, and he peered inside. Himura was covered up to his chin by blankets. Kaoru knelt at his side, and there was a severely torn gi in her lap, the needle jutting out of the fabric. Her expression was brimming with concern as she looked over him.

"Kaoru?"

She jerked her head towards him. "Otou-san? You can come in."

He did, properly closing the door behind. He sat next to her, watching Himura's slow, even breathing. "Any change?"

"No, he hasn't woken up yet." She undid a stitch, creating a tighter one in its place. "It's hard to wait."

"I know, Kaoru. It's difficult, but he's healthy and resilient."

She didn't respond at first, her throat working. "When they came back, the moon was rising. Behind them, there was a trail of blood. His blood. He couldn't walk on his own, or raise his head. He was cold. And when the doctors were closing his wounds, he didn't even react. Shishio bit into his shoulder, close to where the vessels were. I'm so scared for him."

"However, you should take care of yourself as well. Overly worrying will not do you or him any good." He gently reminded her.

"Yeah, but I can't help it. Okaa-san died in her sleep too…" Her voice diminished as she rubbed her eyes with the heel of her hand.

At the memory, Koshijiro's chest tightened. Without speaking, he lifted the blanket enough to find Himura's hand. A few scrapes were already scabbed over, and his nails had been cut and cleaned. He placed two fingertips upon the sleeping man's pulse. Rapid, but not abnormally so, given that his body was working hard to heal. "At the moment, he's not in immediate danger. I heard he received some of your blood?"

She clasped the inner part of her left elbow, where it must have been taken from. "I did. While you were gone, the hospital was paying people for samples, that it could help in emergencies. It was after the students left, so I signed up. I was told that I have good blood, I can restore almost anyone."

"Well, I expect nothing less from my daughter. You've done excellent work, from fighting off Kyoto's attackers to giving your own life force to Himura-san. I'm very proud of you."

Her smile was strained. "But he's still fighting. Otou-san, I don't want to lose him. We have to return to Tokyo together." She was on the verge of tears, and he held her shoulder.

Waiting until she was calmer, he quietly broached the question. "Do you love him?"

"I…" She took a deep breath. "Misao's been in love with Shinomori-san since she was very young. I only met Kenshin at the beginning of the year, but…I really care about him. After we were finished here, all I could wonder about was whether he was safe. I want him to be happy, and even though he carries his past regrets, I want to help him. I may not understand all of it, but if I can make him smile, that's enough for me." She looked at Himura with an emotion Koshijiro had seen before but not from her. It had been in Kyoko's face, when he read aloud to her while she was ill. It was longing, tenderness, a deep and unwavering love.

Oh. She really did love him. Not that he was completely surprised, but her confession made it definitive.

However, Himura had not declared his intentions at all. Towards Kaoru, what did he feel? Was it equal to her own for him? He had said goodbye only to her, but what if that had no deeper meaning? And what were the mixed feelings he had spoken of, when they reunited? There was still room for doubt, and thus, still a possibility for Kaoru to be hurt. Right now, Himura's health was the priority, but after he recovered, there had to be a conversation. Until then, if she wasn't directly assisting him, keeping the two of them apart at arm's length was the best course of action. If Himura really did care for his daughter, he would be respectful, and at the very least, begin a courtship. If not…the distance would protect her. Even if she was an adult, Kaoru would always be his little girl. She deserved to be loved in return for what she gave, and anyone who treated her badly would earn his eternal resentment.

"Kaoru, when-" A rustle of movement interrupted him, as very slowly, Himura opened his eyes.

She set aside her sewing, drawing close to him. "Kenshin?"

He lifted his gaze, and his mouth formed a small smile in recognition. Almost too quietly to hear, he murmured. "Kaoru…dono."

"I'm here, Kenshin. You're safe at the Shirobeko. I'm glad you're awake. Thank goodness…" She wiped away her tears of relief.

Urgently, Koshijiro stepped out, calling for Takani, who immediately rushed over. Unfortunately, he was already drifting back to sleep by the time she arrived, but she seemed reassured by the development. Sagara and Yahiko, panting from running upstairs, were disappointed that they hadn't witnessed the moment. From below, someone complained of scattered Go pieces on the floor.

During the night, they took turns watching him, settled by a tournament of janken. With a win and a loss, Koshijiro was dealt one of the middle shifts. Through his two hours, Himura didn't stir at all. If he was dreaming, it was hopefully good.

At dawn, he went with Sagara to look for their missing ally. They searched the shoreline, where the ship had sunk, and followed the trail to the rebels' base, which Shishio's remaining lackeys had fled. He spoke to the Kyoto police, who were making arrests, but no one had spotted the man nor his katana. It was altogether strange.

"Well, there hasn't been a corpse." Sagara pointed out. "But what was he thinking? There's gotta be a reason that he went off alone." He continued down the path, grumbling to himself.

Aloud, Koshijiro said. "Even wolves hunt better in packs. Isn't that why I was given responsibilities in Tokyo?" The whistling wind was his only response.

When they returned, Yahiko shared that Himura was able to stay awake long enough for breakfast. Sagara barged in first, cheering to the point where Takani admonished him for being disruptive. She dragged him out by the ear, remarking that his dressings needed to be changed.

Koshijiro saw Himura uncovered for the first time. In the daylight, Himura was startlingly frail. He must have pushed his body beyond its limits, to defeat Shishio. Both of his shoulders were wrapped, the fabric crossing his abdomen. Another wound was at his right flank. Propped up on pillows, he was being spooned broth. By Kaoru.

He felt a twitch in his forehead. "Hello, Himura-san. I see that you are looking better."

"Hello…Kamiya-dono." His voice was slightly uneven.

Kaoru fed him another mouthful. "Let me know if you want your tea."

Himura gave the barest nod, and even that required visible effort.

"The last time we met, it was before you left for Kioisaka." Koshijiro said, sitting by the door. "I know you did not want to initially leave, but thank you for preserving this country's peace. I am very glad that you survived, and that you did not have to break your vow."

"So is this one." He breathed out. "But this one came close, only once."

Kaoru had evidently not heard this, because she lowered the bowl. "Kenshin?"

He spoke slowly, hesitantly. "It was after the first sakabato broke, and this one went to find the original smith. He had passed away, and his son was no longer crafting swords, to live quietly with his family. Then, one of the Ten Swords took their infant hostage. This one was given the only katana remaining, in order to save the child."

Koshijiro frowned. Balancing the vow not to kill against the life of a baby? What kind of person would impose this choice upon Himura? "What did you decide?"

"This one used the scabbard to strike the enemy, and as he went down, this one saw that the sword was a sakabato after all."

"So, that's what happened." Kaoru softly said.

"However, for a moment, this one considered drawing anyway." His tone was serious; the memory weighed heavily on him. "In that second, it didn't matter what kind of sword it was. But this one remembered something. The night when Jin-e kidnapped Kaoru-dono. The answer she gave this one, when her life was in danger. To not give in, even when it is tempting. To remember that life should be protected. So this one changed tactics. This one's first thought was suited for Hiten Mitsurugi, but the issue was settled by Kamiya Kasshin."

Himura had saved the child, while the principle of 'the sword that protects life' had saved him in turn. Since the beginning, he had taken the school's message seriously, yet this was the first time he explicitly had it in mind during a fight. He was not only wielding a reverse-bladed sword, but the foremost lesson of Kamiya Kasshin as well. It was a subtle change, and Koshijiro approved, with an upwelling of pride and satisfaction.

Kaoru had recognized the significance as well, eyes wide and unconsciously leaning towards Himura. Her voice was hopeful. "Kenshin, you were thinking of Kamiya Kasshin?"

"This one did say that he preferred your vision." And he smiled at her, a true one that reached his gaze.

Koshijiro realized that this was probably what Yahiko had seen on the rooftop. This closeness, like a magnetic draw to each other, even if they weren't touching. Before he could remind them of his presence, another voice floated overhead.

"Finally, my idiot apprentice is awake." Hiko was standing at the threshold, expression impassive.

Himura blinked. "You were here, Shishou?"

"Of course. It took me far too long, because you didn't tell me the location of a place called the Aoiya."

To Koshijiro's surprise, Himura seemed annoyed. "This one believed you would ask."

"Did you think any of these people would stop and provide directions, while the city was under attack?"

"If you did not know where it was, you could have said that, when this one first told you."

"Both of you, stop it!" Kaoru interjected, lifting the spoon to Himura's mouth. "Hiko-san, don't pester him. Kenshin, you should take it easy. Everyone's okay, so no more arguing. Understood?"

Reluctantly, they both nodded. A tentative stalemate. The silence was only disrupted by Himura's sips.

She gave him the last of the broth, then half his tea to wash it down. She was about to stand, but Himura's free fingers pinched her sleeve, keeping her close. "Thank you, Kaoru-dono."

"You're welcome, Kenshin." She smiled down at him. There was no sign she was resuming her previous action.

"Arm's length." Koshijiro said, out of habit, only to remember that Hiko was standing right there.

The man erupted into loud, malicious laughter. "Is that how you're living, baka deshi? At arm's length?"

Himura actually scowled. "Shishou…"

"I've heard of horrific mothers-in-law, but you? You have a strict father-in-law."

"Father-in-law?!" Koshijiro and Kaoru exclaimed simultaneously.

"W-what?" She stammered. "That's not how it is! Otou-san doesn't act like a…that would mean…"

Himura's face was a shade close to his loose hair, and his jaw clenched. "Remind this one why you are still here, and not at the mountain."

"My supplies are taking too long."

"Yes, they are. Your demands must have been overwhelming."

This was a different side of Himura, more like the young man he really was. Koshijiro thought it was refreshing, and honestly, his master was insufferable. Tired after finishing his meal, Himura's eyelids started to fall. Kaoru ushered the men out to leave him be, though she didn't linger either, stepping out moments later and taking his tray to the kitchen.

With nothing else to do, Hiko leisurely headed downstairs. "Will he be going to Tokyo with you?"

Koshijiro replied. "That is the plan, unless he expresses otherwise."

"I doubt he will. I'd never seen my idiot apprentice at a loss for words, until your daughter walked into my house."

"Didn't he say he had mixed feelings?"

"Ah, so you've heard. Half anger and half relief, that's what he said."

Anger, presumably that she had followed him when he had willingly gone on this mission. But relief…he had been relieved to see her face. Neither of those emotions, however, were indicative of romantic love.

"But while he's here," Hiko continued. "I'll make up for lost time. It's entertaining to watch you put him in check. To think, after all these years, the idiot would actually listen to someone and it's an overbearing tanuki father who just lost his arm."

"I did not tell you when that happened."

"No, but it's in your bearing. You're awkward, you haven't entirely adjusted. You still believe you're inadequate, and that burden is heavier than this coat. Well? What have you done to correct that?"

He really didn't like this man. He retorted. "At the very least, I wasn't drinking myself into a stupor out of worry."

Hiko whipped around, coat flaring and eyes narrowed. Koshijiro refused to flinch.

Then, the so-called Thirteenth Master showed his gritted teeth. "It wasn't out of worry. Sake is good at any time of the day, as long as there's nothing wrong with you."

"And I am content enough to be alive, with or without my left arm."

"So, if neither of us have complaints, then we have nothing more to speak of. Tell my idiot apprentice I haven't finished my supply run." Abruptly, he marched on, striding out of the Shirobeko.

With his frustration boiling over, Koshijiro took the opportunity to begin repacking. He could handle his belongings perfectly fine. And he hated that Hiko's observation had genuinely disturbed him. When the boys had described the battles, he had been thinking as well, of strategy and how he would have acted. But he had to rework every move, to account for his current state. The one-handed variant of Kamiya Kasshin was in development, and even though he had tested it, his opponent had been unskilled. With how he was now, he wouldn't have been able to protect anyone in Kyoto, and his own responsibilities had their importance. But seeing everyone's injuries had stung the swordsman in him. Once he was in the dojo, he'd have to continue his progress.

Kaoru must have heard the noise, because she knocked. Looking around the room, she asked. "You're going home today?"

"I am. I have work tomorrow." He turned to her. "Do you want to return with me?"

Immediately, she shook her head. "Kenshin can't travel yet, and I don't want to leave him. Or everyone else."

Sagara and Yahiko were not ready either; Takani intended to continue her care of all of them during the week. On a positive note, Kaoru also enjoyed Makimachi's company. The younger girl was boisterous and trained in martial arts, so it was no wonder they had become fast friends. "It's alright if you stay."

"Really?"

"Yes. After all, I'll be back next weekend."

She blinked. "Huh?! I mean, Otou-san, you don't have to."

"Yes, I do. Who else will enforce the arm's length rule?"

"Geez, Otou-san! It's still in place, even when Kenshin's hurt?"

"Helping him is an exception. If nothing inappropriate will happen, then there is no issue."

"I shouldn't have told you anything." She grumbled.

He gave a leveling stare. "Kaoru. You don't mean that."

"No." With an exhale, she crossed her arms. "You're just being really picky about this."

He sensed that if he unveiled his full reasoning, particularly the possibility that Himura did not care for her in the way she most desired, she would be incredibly upset. Instead, he said. "As a young man and woman, this ensures that you'll be mindful of how you act around each other. It seems that's slipped in the past weeks."

"So we should talk behind folding screens?" As if she hadn't poked holes through rice paper when she was younger.

He ignored the sarcasm. "If your feelings are true, they will endure. Unless you become formally engaged, the rule will remain." Wait. Damn it. Damn Hiko for mentioning the word 'father-in-law'.

Kaoru was bright red. "…Alright."

"I'm not saying that I expect an engagement or that if there was such a thing, you would be free to do whatever you like." He hastily added. "It was a hypothetical example."

"Uh-huh."

Acutely aware he was digging a deeper hole, he excused himself to say goodbye to the others. Makimachi was in the hallway, lightly humming and glancing up from her ink-covered sheet of parchment.

"Are you leaving already, Kamiya-san? The rest of the Oniwabanshuu are out on tasks, so that's too bad."

"Give them my regards, although I'll be here again in six days."

"Oh, great! I followed your advice, by the way. Would you like to say anything to Aoshi-sama?"

"Only that I wish he recovers and despite a rough start, I appreciated his aid in this."

"You got it!" She finished her note with a flourish and turned to the nearest door, cracking it open. She pushed the paper inside, and it fluttered to the tatami. A glimpse showed that Shinomori was in a meditating position, his rigid back towards them. She closed the door with forced cheer; she definitely had an uphill battle, but kindness always won out in the end.

Takani was mixing medicine, though she asked him to let Dr. Gensai know she would be staying. "And here are the pages." She carefully tore them out of her book.

"It may take time, but I will do the best I can from my end."

"Thank you, Kamiya-san." She returned to her work, still melancholy but a little less than before.

Yahiko was next, and he handed off a folded square of paper. "It's for Tsubame, I said I'd write to her after we won. Don't read it!"

"I have no intention of doing so." He gravely answered. Sae also approached with her own message to her twin, which he promised he would deliver. He reiterated his gratitude to her and the staff, and that he was sorry to impose upon them again. It was no trouble, they insisted, and it was fun to have the Shirobeko so lively. Throughout the city, many others had been left with damaged homes, and as it had been with disasters in history, it was the time to come together.

Sagara was attempting to use chopsticks with his left hand, clacking them together. "See you, old man. I'll be as good as you with one hand, next time we meet."

"I'm far from an expert." He humbly said. "Please don't overexert yourself."

He did enter Himura's room one last time, but he was still sleeping. These initial days of recovery would be vital, and Koshijiro hoped he would never receive a telegram bearing bad news.

He took the afternoon train, and his daughter saw him off. "I'll see you soon." He intently looked at her.

"Bye." She huffed but gave him a quick hug before he boarded. And with that, he was alone once more.

Despite the late hour, his first stop was the home of the assistant chief inspector, and Tokio greeted him. Her gaze briefly searched behind him, though she maintained a neutral, polite face. He delivered the facts, that her husband was unaccounted for.

"Have you received any correspondence from him?" He asked.

"No, not since he asked if we could take in Eiji."

Silence fell over them, the worst possibility left unspoken.

"Did he have any contacts I can reach out to?"

"My husband's work is highly classified, and I don't think we are at that point yet. I'm more concerned with why he hasn't notified me. Nothing can tame a wolf of Mibu, but he comes home if he's told to. And I told him to come home." Tokio emphasized. Her gaze was tracked on the horizon, and only the slight trembling of her hands gave away that she was in turmoil.

"You will be the first to know if I hear anything from Kyoto."

"Thank you, Kamiya-san." From within the house, Tsutomu whined, and Eiji called out hesitantly to her. She gave a quick bow before hurrying to the children, the door closing behind her.

If…no, when he saw Fujita again, he would have to give him a piece of his mind. Worrying his allies and his own family was too much.

The following morning, he kept his promise to Takani. He sent the information she had provided to the police department in her hometown, requesting for anyone who met the descriptions and to write back to him. In the meantime, he would continue to work, with his lunch break at the Akabeko so he could deliver the letters. Tae thanked him, and Tsubame had turned pink upon reading her paper.

According to recent reports, there was a scavenger in the vicinity of Chinshu Forest, and the station was told to keep an eye out. The younger officers also said there were rumors of a ghost, which Koshijiro ignored. When one of the rookies, Ikehira, went to investigate and confessed he had just missed whoever this scavenger was, but they could set up a perimeter. Koshijiro detoured there on his way home, to see if he could uncover more.

He heard the noises first. Dull scraping, heavy breathing. He kept his hand on his baton, as he drew closer. Near a small shrine, there was a young boy, scrambling in the dirt. He was around Yahiko's age and he was singularly focused on rearranging the ground. Grass bits and clumps of earth were scattered around him.

"Hello?" Koshijiro called out. "Are you lost?"

The boy turned, and Koshijiro saw that he was a filthy child, as if he had been living in the wilderness. Like an animal, he bared his teeth and ran off. Koshijiro made to follow, but the boy was faster and smaller, disappearing into the brush. Within a few minutes, he could only hear his own footsteps. Unable to pursue any further without venturing into unknown territory, he resorted to finding his way out of the forest, back into town. He had not heard news of a missing boy, so who was that?