Author's Note: Let's get this angst train rolling. As always, please let me know what you think!
"You don't have to close the Akabeko!" Yahiko was being belligerent; so far, he had shot down every idea for his birthday plans. He resumed sweeping the restaurant floor, with extra vigor. "It's just another day."
"It's only for one night." Tae chided. "Business is good, and everyone needs a break. Including you, Yahiko, you've been such a big help. But if you feel like it's too much, it doesn't have to be extravagant. Just dinner and a night out in Asakusa, before summer ends. The fireflies will be gone soon, and it would be nice to see them one last time. Right, Tsubame?"
She nodded, smiling at Yahiko. "It would be fun…if you want to."
At last, his resistance crumbled and he muttered. "I guess it's fine."
"There we go, Yahiko!" Kaoru beamed, ruffling his hair. "I knew you'd come around."
"Aw, come on! Don't treat me like a little kid!" He looked desperately to Koshijiro. "You saw me earlier, didn't you?"
"Yes, I did. You did very well." He smiled at the boy, despite the flicker of unease.
In addition to Kaoru's teaching, Himura was now providing training exercises to Yahiko. That was new. Yahiko was eager to practice his offensive maneuvers, even though he couldn't break through Himura's one-handed defense yet. Koshijiro had heard from Kaoru, but he hadn't witnessed a session until today.
Sagara also did for the first time, and he had sprawled on the porch, cheering them on equally. When it ended, he said. "Kenshin, I didn't know you were passing on Hiten Mitsurugi!"
"This one isn't." Himura replied, and Yahiko had exclaimed in protest.
"You're not?! That's what I thought we were doing! What the heck?"
"But you've become stronger through Kamiya Kasshin." Himura gently countered. "This one thought to help you, in any way he can. Was that wrong?"
"In other words, you'll have to beat him with Kamiya Kasshin." Sagara added.
Yahiko was still flustered, but he couldn't refute the point. "Well, I appreciate it. So, we're still training tomorrow too!"
And then, they went their separate ways: Sagara to the clinic for a follow-up visit, Yahiko to work, and Kaoru to visit Tae and Tsubame. Koshijiro had tagged along because he hadn't eaten lunch yet, but his immediate tasks were completed and he planned to return to the dojo first. Himura was doing the laundry, falling back into the comfortable routine of housework. It suited him, and his smile never faltered. And yet…Koshijiro couldn't shake the feeling of uneasiness.
He ate quickly and excused himself. "Asakusa will be nice. The plan is for Saturday?"
"Yes, because that's the last day of the month." Kaoru confirmed. "I'll be home by sunset, Otou-san."
"Alright. It's getting dark earlier, so if you run late, ask one of my colleagues to escort you. I'll see you later." He patted her head. She seemed embarrassed, especially when Yahiko's derisive laughter drifted over.
While he walked, he considered how to approach Himura. They'd be alone, so they could talk freely. He had no doubt that Himura would be honest, but how to start the conversation was difficult. It was only a sense of intuition on Koshijiro's part, that Himura was acting carefully. As if he couldn't relax. Why else would he offer to train Yahiko, after all this time? And for that matter, they still had to continue their discussion regarding Kaoru…
That hope was dashed when Sagara called out, and the young man sprinted to catch up. "Hey, old man. Heading back already?"
"Yes, I am. Are you coming too?"
"Yeah, I was told to rest, so I might as well hang around. There's yokan in the well, and I told Kenshin to save some for me."
A few paces later, Koshijiro remarked. "You were the last one to leave. How was he?"
"You've noticed it, right?" Sagara meaningfully glanced towards him. "It's like he's drawn a line and he isn't willing to step over it."
"That's an astute description."
"The fox agreed, when I said it."
"I was thinking of mentioning it to him."
"Uh, I don't think you're the right person for that."
"Why not?"
"If I were in his shoes and something was bothering me, I wouldn't want to look bad in front of the father of the girl I love." Sagara gave Koshijiro a friendly smack between the shoulders. "You know it's true."
Koshijiro certainly remembered that particular feeling, but he maintained a neutral expression. "Then, would you talk to him?"
"I'm waiting for the right moment, it's seriously bothering me. Jou-chan too, but she's not going to bring it up unless he does. She understands he won't leave; she's changed since our trip to Kyoto." Sagara's grin widened. "And you've changed too, huh? You were all about distance, with the arm's length rule and hovering around."
He evaded. "I haven't abolished the rule."
"No, but I'm counting down the days until you do. They're good for each other, you're just digging in your heels. Kenshin might look composed, but I swear he's dying of blue balls."
"Sagara-san, that is very inappropriate." Koshijiro sternly admonished.
"What, your former students never talked like I did?"
"They did, and I was your age once; I'm well aware of what young men discuss. But Kaoru is my daughter."
"And Kenshin is my best friend. Of course, I'm taking his side."
They were approaching the house, and Koshijiro unlocked the gate. "Well, we're both looking out for them. We can leave it at that."
"Sure, sure."
In the yard, Himura was watering the row of lilies, and he looked up with a smile. "This one thought he heard your voices. Welcome home."
"Yes, we're back." Koshijiro nodded, studying him carefully.
Sagara hurried to the well, where the yokan was chilled, and eagerly recovered the dessert. "Alright, snack time! You better join me inside, or I'll eat it all." He removed his shoes and jumped onto the porch, before heading in.
"Kamiya-dono…"
Koshijiro turned to Himura. "Yes?"
He visibly swallowed, glancing away and murmuring. "Dinner will be cold udon. Is there a specific topping you would like?"
He's still holding back. What is he thinking of, to make him so troubled?
Koshijiro held his gaze for a second longer, before gesturing to the sliding door. "I believe we have some eggs and I prefer them soft-boiled. Any of the leftover vegetables should be eaten too. If there's anything I can do to help, let me know." His words contained a double meaning. In response, Himura only inclined his head and went into the house.
Half the yokan was already gone when they rejoined Sagara. He was shuffling a deck for a Western card game, because he claimed that practice would help him win big at the gambling dens. Learning the rules proved to be a distraction. Time flew by easily, though Himura didn't let down his guard again. Koshijiro kept a close eye, but that invisible distance remained. Then, Kaoru and Yahiko announced their return, and the thread was left loose.
Some progress had been made on the investigation. Sawagejo reported that all of the higher-ups of the Chinese enterprise were from Shanghai, but he was unable to discern a further hierarchy amongst them. If anything, they seemed to undermine each other. At this, Saito had grimaced.
"These are still the subordinates. The leader isn't here."
"But Shanghai is a new place of interest." Koshijiro commented. "Could you notify your contacts now?"
"I was intending to." He sent the telegram within the hour, before tasking Sawagejo to gather information from the streets. "Even I know that Shanghai has a notorious crime rate. See if you can acquire specifics about who's active and dealing with Japan."
"Sure, I can do that." With a two-fingered salute, he strode out. Then, he doubled back, hissing. "Oh, Kamiya-san, don't forget about the balloons!"
"Don't worry, I was about to share." That was a breakthrough that Koshijiro had discovered in the morning. Under Saito's narrow gaze, he relayed the conversation he had with Sawagejo on the train. With his downtime, he had looked into imports of large luxury items and came across a shipment of hot air balloons. They were in Osaka but today, four of the balloons had been removed from the stock, sailing towards Yokohama.
"So, you think Shishio's backer is into hot air balloons?" Saito deadpanned.
"We don't know this person's motives. But at the moment, I'm not interested in speculating. The ship is going to stop for fuel in Tokyo. If the balloons never make it to Yokohama…someone will come looking." He said purposefully.
By the glimmer in Saito's eyes, it was an amenable idea. "I'll send a team to collect."
That was the last update, and Koshijiro left the station feeling optimistic. He could enjoy dinner and the trip to Asakusa with a clear head.
A new sign by the Akabeko's entrance declared that they would be closing early. He had arrived with thirty minutes to spare. He was about to announce he was present, when Tae raised her voice.
"You two were finally doing well! You should stop by more often, I'll give you a makeover." She was examining Kaoru's face, to her protest. "Not a lot of makeup, of course, you're naturally beautiful already, but just a touch so you don't look too sweaty-"
"Tae! You don't need to worry about me! And what about yourself?! You're twenty-nine, aren't you?" Her outburst caused Tae to fall silent, and while her expression wasn't visible from Koshijiro's perspective, her stiff posture conveyed it anyway.
Tsubame gave a cry of horror. "Kaoru-san, you shouldn't say that out loud!"
"…Is this a bad time?" Koshijiro ventured. Obviously, the girls were having a spirited discussion.
"Not at all, Kamiya-san!" Tae whirled around, her face flushed. "You're right on time!"
Kaoru was also flustered, and she peered behind Koshijiro. "Hi, Otou-san. Oh, Kenshin's not with you?"
"No, I came directly from work." He scanned the dining area. Himura was the sole absence; even Sagara wasn't late.
"That's odd." Takani tilted her head in concern. "I was at the clinic all day, but I thought Ken-san was at the dojo. I wonder what's keeping him."
Koshijiro took a seat. "Well, there's still time. He must be on an errand."
The front curtain lifted and they automatically looked, but it wasn't Himura. A large man walked in, his bulky frame taking up the entire aisle. But Koshijiro's gaze was caught on the man's right arm, where there was no hand. He had been amputated above the wrist, the stump wrapped in winding cloth. He had coarse features, which contorted in brief surprise upon noticing Koshijiro's loss.
"Welcome!" Tae greeted the customer. "What can I get you?"
"The cheapest meal." The man lumbered to the nearest table and remained quiet. Occasionally, he glanced towards the back of the restaurant, directly at Koshijiro. Then, he remarked. "When did you lose your arm?"
"About a year ago, in Satsuma." The admission felt odd. A year had passed, but it felt like time had flown so quickly.
The man didn't respond, not giving a word regarding how he'd lost his. Most likely, he wasn't coping. With the bandages, how recently was he injured? And he was sitting alone. Koshijiro had thought it was fortunate that he returned alive, but he was even more grateful that he had the dojo and his family. A reason was needed to live on, and this stranger had not found it yet.
Tae exited the kitchen and Yahiko did a double take at what she was carrying. "Huh? You're giving him the salmon set? But soba is cheapest…"
"It's alright, I'm charging him the price of soba."
"Don't do it." Sagara cut in with a grimace. "Pitying him is more insulting than buckwheat noodles."
"It's not pity. With his condition, he's obviously a war veteran, like Kamiya-san." Tae looked to Koshijiro, sympathy in her gaze. "It's the least I can do, to repay such sacrifice."
"That's kind of you, Sekihara-san."
Sagara wasn't moved. "Well, I wonder how he'll take it…"
They probably weren't discreet, as they watched Tae serve the man. A pause followed, before he said. "I ordered the cheapest meal…but I'll accept your generosity, ma'am."
Tsubame sighed in relief, while Kaoru nudged Sagara's side. "See? Kindness is always recognized for what it is. I don't think you've recovered from Kyoto yet."
"That's what tonight's for, isn't it?" But he cracked a smile.
Tae was bringing the customer more tea, when he stood. "Thank you for the meal."
"Oh, are you sure you don't want anything else?"
"I don't want to impose. You're closing soon." He glanced again at Koshijiro and slightly nodded. Then, he left his money on the table and exited.
Only a moment later, Himura slipped through the curtain. They must have run into each other outside the building, and Himura was still looking in the stranger's direction. He didn't turn towards them, until Kaoru approached.
"Kenshin?"
His expression was conflicted, tinged with melancholy. Or was it regret? "…This one was helping a lost grandfather. He asked for directions downtown."
"That's sweet of you. And you're just on time." She led him to their table with a smile, which he tentatively returned. When he met Koshijiro's gaze, his eyes dropped to the empty sleeve. Usually, he avoided looking at it out of courtesy; he was definitely out of sorts.
The dinner menu was an assortment of Yahiko's favorite foods, and he asked for multiple helpings, which pleased Tae to no end. After they finished eating, she sent the staff to their respective homes and locked the Akabeko. The light of the setting sun reflected off the red paint, lending a vibrant glow to the building. It looked beautiful.
Then, they kicked off the evening and the plan quickly deviated. They took a detour to the Yamashita Monnai Museum, to see the exotic animals that had been housed there since the Vienna Exposition five years ago. There was a wide variety. Familiar rabbits and dogs. More exotic animals like wildcats and peacocks. There were a few that none of them had ever seen, creatures called buffalo as well as small black birds that mimicked voices. Yahiko was most excited about the bear enclosure, though the bears were already sleeping. However, he watched them with bright eyes, whispering excitedly when an ear flicked or a dreamy snort escaped. Tsubame seemed to observe his expression more than the animals.
When the museum's visiting hours ended, they resumed their trek to Asakusa, heading for Hanayashiki. It was a flower garden, but there were new "play machines". However, when they arrived, the machines were already being used by other guests, pushing against the metal limbs in small movements.
"What do you think, Yahiko? Are you impressed?" Sagara teased him.
"Nah. I've already seen crazier things happen." Yahiko shrugged, unfazed. "Since we're here, we can just walk around."
None of the plays seemed to catch his attention, and the raunchier side of Asakusa was out of the question. Eventually, they meandered to a quiet field, away from the city lights. The last of the fireflies were emerging, lazily floating in the air. The girls strode further into the tall grass, but when Himura tried to follow Kaoru, Sagara clasped his shoulder.
"So, are you gonna share why you're so gloomy? You can hide it from them, but the old man and I can tell."
"Me too!" Yahiko added. "You're a lot worse; any more and you'll be like Aoshi."
"Misao-dono wouldn't enjoy hearing that." Himura deflected, but he caved. Closing his eyes, he then said. "Kamiya-dono, you lost your arm in an explosion. But how would you feel if someone was responsible?"
"For my left arm?" He paused. "Technically, someone fired the cannon in Satsuma, but I understand that's not what you mean. You knew that man in the Akabeko, didn't you?"
"Yes. In the battle of Toba Fushimi, we were on opposing sides. This one cut off his right hand, and he begged for the end, to have a warrior's death. But this one could not give it. This one was already tired of killing, and told him to live peacefully in the new era. Even as this one walked away, he couldn't accept it. This one was glad to see him alive after ten years…but it seemed as if he didn't realize this one was Battousai."
The wind was picking up, bringing the chill of night. It was getting late. Koshijiro replied. "To answer your question, I wouldn't blame the other person. However, this isn't about my reaction. It's about yours. It was unexpected to meet the man again, and your guilt has returned. I'd like to ask you this. Which would you have regretted more: cutting off his hand or killing him?"
"Killing him." He readily said.
"Then, your decision was sound. And this man was alive. He could have killed himself in the past ten years, or succumbed to vice. He seemed polite to Sekihara-san. Even though he requested the cheapest meal at the Akabeko, he didn't drink anything stronger than tea. Those are good signs." He left out the observation about the man's wrapped stump, but that wasn't helpful now.
"He ate everything too." Yahiko pointed out. "I guess that counts as gratitude."
Himura hesitated. "Still…"
"I didn't fight like you two had, and I get why you'd worry, Kenshin." Sagara said. "But overthinking will bog you down. You've earned the peace you brought. Do you see the shadow of war in any of that?" He nodded to the girls.
Tsubame had managed to cup one between her hands, and Tae congratulated her. Takani was proper as ever, though a peaceful expression had settled on her face. And with a carefree smile, Kaoru lifted her hand, allowing a firefly to take off from her index finger.
"No." Himura softly said. "Not at all."
Then, the moment was shattered by a loud bang. Stronger than fireworks. Koshijiro froze. He could never forget such a sound.
A cannon was just fired. But from where…and what did it hit?
He locked eyes with Himura, who was just as worried. "The Armstrong cannon. Are there military exercises this late at night?"
"Not that I'm aware of." A sense of foreboding overcame him. "We should head back anyway. Kaoru!" He urged the girls over, and as a group, they followed the road into town.
The bells were ringing, alerting the fire brigade was active. A chorus of voices rose from behind them, and they squeezed together on the sidewalk, waiting for the first responders to pass through. In the lanterns' light, Koshijiro caught sight of familiar faces. He called out. "Chief Uramura?"
"Officer Kamiya!" The chief broke away from the rest of the officers. "It's good you're here. We need every man available."
"I heard the cannon. Do we know anything?"
"The shot was fired from Mt. Ueno, and it was a direct hit on one of the restaurants. The Akabeko."
Immediately, Koshijiro looked to Tae. Her face was drained of color. "My Akabeko?"
The chief was still talking. "The fire brigade's on its way, but I'm sorry. It doesn't look good. We're setting a perimeter around Mt. Ueno and telling everyone to take shelter in case of more shots. This is an attack upon the city."
"This one will go to the mountain." Himura spoke up, his expression grim. Then, he sprinted off. "We can rejoin at the Akabeko!"
"Hold on, I'm coming too!" Sagara shouted, racing after him.
Yahiko refused to stay behind and he trailed in their wake. "Wait for me!"
"Yahiko, it's too dangerous!" Kaoru warned but he ignored her. She blew out a breath in exasperation. "Well, I'm his teacher, so I'm going after him. Otou-san, I'll be right back."
"Be careful." He watched her go, before escorting the remaining women to the Akabeko.
Even from the end of the street, there was a noticeable gap between the buildings adjacent to the restaurant. As they approached, the wreckage became visible. The beams were snapped, the second floor had collapsed onto the ground floor. Some officers were picking through the utter mess, clinking dish shards as they went. They were walking on the roof, Koshijiro realized, and everything underneath had been crushed. His heart sank.
Takani murmured the sentiment aloud. "How horrible."
Tae cried out and she lifted a piece of wood from the dusty ground. It was the Akabeko's sign, or the legible half of it. Tears welled in her eyes. "Gone…it's completely destroyed. Who could have done this…?" She hugged the sign, and Tsubame clung to her waist, holding back sobs of her own.
"We'll find out." Koshijiro grimaced. He raised his voice, informing the officers of the owner's presence.
They relayed the details, that it was fortunate nobody was inside or a fire hadn't broken out. They were still searching for the cannonball. Tae denied having enemies, and doubted her competitors would have access to a cannon. While she spoke, Kaoru returned, one hand in Yahiko's collar. He was staggering like a drunkard.
"Yahiko-kun, are you alright?" Tsubame gasped.
"He's fine, he just overexerted himself. Kenshin and Sano outpaced him." Kaoru explained, and she went to Tae, drawing her into a comforting embrace. "I'm so sorry. The two of you can stay at the dojo."
"Thank you, but I'll only trouble you for tonight." Tae said, wiping her eyes. "In the morning, I'm going to Kyoto, to my parents' house. I need to tell them about what's happened. Tsubame-chan? You've been staying with me. Are you returning to your grandparents?"
"They live in Kawasaki…" She trailed off. "But I'd rather stay here."
Yahiko had recovered his strength, and he awkwardly patted her shoulder. "Yeah, it's better if you stick around. Are you okay?"
She nodded, hiccupping. "Thank you."
It was already close to midnight, but they lingered at the ruined Akabeko, until they discerned Sagara and Himura's silhouettes. Both of them seemed weary, especially Himura. He tersely explained. "The shot definitely came from Mt. Ueno. They haven't found anyone yet."
They went home, feeling on edge. But they safely reached the gate, without hearing cannonfire again. Tae and Tsubame were ushered into the house, Takani taking the lead in preparing their room.
However, Koshijiro didn't remove his shoes. "I have to stop by the station. If there's another attack, I should be prepared as backup."
"I understand." Kaoru gave a brave smile. "Are you sleeping there overnight?" It wasn't the first time he had, but it had been years.
"I'll try and sleep in between, but unless they dismiss me earlier, I'll be home in the morning." He waved and she responded in kind.
It was eerily quiet outside, and he did his best to hurry. The police station was bustling, and Koshijiro spotted the chief, standing in a corner. "Any news?"
Chief Uramura reiterated some of the story but he also handed over a paper, with sloppily written kanji. Ink was splattered across the margins. "And this was left underneath the fallen holy tree."
Koshijiro frowned. "Jinchuu? Not Tenchuu?" The latter he knew was the creed of the Ishin Shishi, to deliver Heaven's Judgment. But this was… "Judgment from a person."
"That's exactly what Himura-san said, when he saw it."
And yet, neither he nor Sagara had mentioned it. A sudden thought struck Koshijiro. Did Himura have an idea of the perpetrator? He'd have to ask in private.
He did stay overnight, but to his relief, there were no more explosions. Through the glass windows, he watched the sun rise on an uneventful morning. The slight warmth caressed his face, almost reassuringly.
However, to Koshijiro's dismay, the investigation was rapidly closed. The cannon and note were attributed to rebel samurai, discontented with the government. The Akabeko was destroyed because of a misfire, and there was no foul play involved. Koshijiro tried to push for further investigation, that it had only been three days, but he was outnumbered. He didn't want to bring up his suspicion that Himura knew the attacker, not yet. He clenched his jaw as the case file was shut. He had to walk out, he was incredibly furious.
Leaning against the closest streetlamp, Saito removed his cigarette from his mouth and intoned. "You're not satisfied either. So? What are you going to do?"
"Continue the investigation. I have a feeling there's a point of connection between the cannon and the other person we're tracking down." An Armstrong cannon was from the West, and as a weapon, it had more in common with Shishio's warship than anything as of yet.
"Then, we're in agreement. Your toys are safe, by the way. No takers yet." The balloons were in a warehouse by the docks.
"Thank you for letting me know." They exchanged nods, and he walked on, left with his thoughts.
Jinchuu had been attributed to the rebels, and yet, there was no record of its mention in previous conflicts. Or in any previous context, for that matter. Was it a budding organization, a new banner that criminals were gathering under? Himura said he suspected the one-handed customer, but his admission had brimmed with uncertainty. Regardless, the man was still unaccounted for, as well as the cannon. Koshijiro did not like the situation.
When he arrived home, Kaoru greeted him. "Otou-san, welcome back." Something in her tone tipped him off, and he stared at her.
"Are you alright?"
She bit her lip, shifting her weight from one foot to the other. "Did Sano or Kenshin say anything to you about brothels?"
That was the last topic of discussion he expected. Abruptly, he recalled Sagara's comment about Himura's…potential frustration. His mood soured further. "…No. Is there a reason you're asking?"
"Well, I heard them whispering about a map and I confronted them. Sano said they were talking about brothels to visit tonight. Kenshin was embarrassed though. I don't know whether it's because they really aren't going to brothels or because I caught them." She crossed her arms, a worried crease forming between her eyebrows. "I think Kenshin's hiding something. Probably not to worry us, but…anyway! Yahiko begged me to teach him Hadome and Hawatari."
"He's ambitious."
"More like, he's getting ahead of himself! He's only interested because he wants to be stronger. But strength isn't everything, and it's definitely not the right mindset for the succession techniques. He's ten years old, he needs to think deeper about what swordsmanship is. I told him that, so he can reflect."
He smiled. "Well said, Kamiya-sensei."
She flashed an unamused look, but she didn't protest like before. Good. She was fitting into her role as the head instructor. "So, Yahiko might be quieter than usual. Otherwise, today was fine."
They went inside, and Tsubame was sitting at the table, sewing neat little stitches. She ducked her head. "Kamiya-san, welcome back." She had received permission from her family to stay at the dojo, until Tae returned and found a new place to live.
"Yes, I'm home. I see you've found something to do."
"I lost my practice piece, but Kaoru-san gave me one of hers."
"Actually, my father used to sew too." Kaoru cheekily said.
"Eh?"
"I wasn't very good." He deflected. "My mother taught me, but I never could match her skill. Kaoru had already surpassed my limited ability when she was your age. If you need more fabric, we have plenty."
Eventually, they regrouped for dinner, and it was a subdued meal. Sagara skipped out afterwards, claiming a get-together with his gambling acquaintances, although Himura stayed. Koshijiro caught the relief in his daughter's expression and realized he felt the same. Not that he really believed Himura was a philanderer, but...he wouldn't have approved. Still, the map was never brought up. Unless, Himura was waiting to rejoin Sagara later?
Koshijiro made the excuse that he was turning in early, but he occupied himself with reading in his room. While turning the pages, he listened for anyone moving about, and the minutes passed in silence. It was an hour away from midnight, when there was a racket outside. Someone was banging against the gate. He was out of bed in an instant, and as he reached the front steps, he made out the silhouettes of Himura, Kaoru, and Yahiko.
A muffled voice drifted from beyond the wooden slats. "Please…Maekawa dojo…"
It was a blur, as they opened the gate and brought their visitor to the yard. Koshijiro vaguely recognized one of Maekawa's students, but he was terribly beaten. Blood stained his gi and hakama, his face turning blue and purple with bruises.
"Was it another dojo challenge?!" Yahiko inquired, as Kaoru began wrapping his wounds.
"No…from the start…he came…to kill." The young man fought for breath. "Help them…everyone's gonna die!"
His friend's dojo was under attack, and by the student's condition, it was brutal. Dread filled Koshijiro. However, before he could speak, Himura was walking past the gate. Kaoru called his name and Yahiko started after him, but he looked back with an agitated expression they'd never seen before.
"No, stay here! Lock the gate and don't let anyone inside!"
With a frown, Koshijiro argued. "I should go. Maekawa-sensei is my friend."
But Himura had sprinted off. Kaoru seemed torn, as she helped the student drink some water. "I'll watch the house with Tsubame and Yahiko. Otou-san, can you catch up with Kenshin?"
"I will try, and I can find some officers while I'm in town."
After the gate was locked behind him, he ran as fast as he could. The path to the Maekawa dojo was blocked by the police, which was a hopeful sign that the attacker was under control. Koshijiro slowed to a stop, easily tracking Himura's bright hair amidst the chaos. Sagara was at the scene too, drawn by the commotion.
"There's Kamiya-san!" Shinichi's voice rang out, and Koshijiro turned towards a cluster of his rookies. "Thank goodness you're here."
"What's happening?"
"The Maekawa dojo was attacked by a strange man, the students who escaped didn't recognize him. Most of them have been sent to the Oguni clinic, along with the master's wife. But the master and his senior students are still inside with the culprit! We can't get close enough to arrest him. He's strong…" Shinichi gulped.
"It's only one person? What weapons does he have?"
Fujisawa replied. "Nothing, just his fists! But we can't open fire, not with the hostages."
"That's absolutely right. Who's taken charge here?" The rookies averted their gazes, and Koshijiro was stunned. "No one? Where's the chief?"
"That's the thing…" Shimizu carefully said. "We sent a messenger to his house, but it's already been half an hour. And Assistant Chief Inspector Fujita was called away earlier, to a brawl on the docks."
"Something's not right." The assault on the dojo was looking less like an isolated incident.
Then, Himura spoke. In the dim light, his features were strangely gaunt. "This one will find the chief. Kamiya-dono, please recover the hostages."
"And I'll take care of this bastard!" Sagara jerked his head towards the dojo. "If it's a fistfight he wants, he'll get it."
Koshijiro glanced back at Himura, but he was already gone. He shook his head; he had to focus on saving Maekawa and his students. "Bring me paper! I'm going to sketch the dojo's structure. The first priority is rescue!"
As he drew, the rest of the police gathered around. He emphasized the points of entry, where they could safely carry out Maekawa, the ten students, and any fallen officers. Sagara would draw the attacker's attention, luring him into the courtyard and buying time for the second wave of police to rush in. Guns would be permitted, to Koshijiro's reluctance. This was the last resort, and he hoped that it didn't progress to shooting.
"Sagara-san, good luck."
"Don't worry, old man. I got this." He grinned, but it was strained. With a loud shout, he pushed past the officers trembling at the doorway.
Outside, Koshijiro pointed to the opening. "Move!" And this was the worst part: tallying and triaging. The first two victims were police, they must have been closest. But the students were worse off, barely breathing, and their features rendered unrecognizable by swelling and blood.
"Take them to the hospital, it's closer." Koshijiro ordered. He counted again. Ten students, eight officers. Then, the last of the rescue team carried out the final man on a stretcher. "Maekawa-sensei!"
For a moment, he feared that his friend was dead. Blood was smeared at the corners of his mouth; his clavicle had been snapped, a gleam that could only be bone. He immediately searched for a pulse. It was a faint flutter, and air was rattling in Maekawa's throat. Part of him wanted to travel with Maekawa to the hospital, but he quelled that wish. Whoever did this had to be apprehended.
Koshijiro bowed and entered the Maekawa dojo. He took a shinai off the ruined floor, marching for the courtyard along with the second wave. They were the best marksmen among the officers tonight, and he instructed them to make their shots non-lethal, aiming for the attacker's limbs.
Sagara was still standing, to Koshijiro's relief. However, his right hand was in terrible condition. Had he overexerted himself again? And there was the attacker, a rough-looking man with metal gauntlets over his forearms. The right appeared uneven in comparison, a piece missing above the knuckles. Then, Sagara staggered backwards.
Cold rationality overcame Koshijiro. "Ready. Aim. Fire!" The first four shots were delivered, but as the smoke cleared, the man had his gauntlet raised, not a scratch on him.
A guttural laugh escaped him. "See? Not even bullets can pierce through my invulnerable gauntlets!"
"You sure about that? I don't think your right one's invulnerable anymore." Sagara wheezed, but his mouth was turned up in a smirk.
The other man exuded killing intent, taking a step towards Sagara. Then, there was a commotion behind Koshijiro and he had told the men to stand aside just in time, before something crashed through. A bulky person, whose jaw inexplicably unhinged, and Koshijiro couldn't fathom what he was looking at. A dark hood emerged, a white skull pattern resembling a face.
The voice was like the creaking of ancient wooden beams. "Banjin, retreat. It is now time for Jinchuu."
That word again!
Banjin must have been the subordinate, and he protested. "Get out of here, Gein! The winner hasn't been decided yet. I'm going to kill him!"
"I was leaving." Then, the figure leapt out of the bulky person. Gein was thin, skeletal even, and landed silently on the dojo's roof. "If you don't want to be in the middle of it, you should get out while you can."
Banjin sulked, following suit, but he taunted Sagara for good measure. "I'll stop playing for today! You better thank me for sparing your life!"
"What the hell are you talking about? This was a draw." Despite his injuries, Sagara was laidback. "How disappointing, you didn't get the precious victory you wanted."
Banjin fumed. "Just you wait, I'll kill you if I see you again!"
At this point, they had finished reloading, and Koshijiro ordered another volley. But Gein and Banjin slipped away, before they could fire again. Koshijiro clenched his jaw in frustration. At least, there was…whatever they'd left behind. Not a person, but too realistic to be a costume. The mouth was still open, the teeth grotesque. As Koshijiro drew closer, he heard a faint hissing sound. Then, he noticed the smoke. He locked eyes with Sagara, in sudden realization.
"Everyone, get back!" Sagara yelled.
"Move!" Koshijiro urged and the officers scrambled away. "Sagara-san! What are you doing?!"
He viciously kicked the stomach, and as the body recoiled, a round sphere launched into the air. The same skull pattern was on it, the fuse already short. "Get down!"
They pressed themselves to the grass, and Koshijiro saw the Maekawa dojo's roof light up. The bomb detonated, the noise reverberating in every muscle. Wood splinters and ceramic tile rained down. When the debris settled, Koshijiro called for a check-in. "Sound off!" Thankfully, everyone was alright. But the dojo's roof was wiped out, the upper floor a certain mess. What was he going to tell Maekawa?
Sagara grimaced. "First, the Akabeko, and now this. They won't stop unless they blow up everything!"
The Akabeko. The Maekawa dojo. Chief Uramura's house. Places related to Koshijiro and Kaoru…to Himura. Judgment from a person. Jinchuu was not a grievance against the government.
"Jinchuu is a personal grudge, isn't it?"
Sagara must have decided that it was no use keeping the secret, because he nodded. "The map was for marking places related to Kenshin. When he saw the word 'Jinchuu', he already understood someone wanted revenge against him. The one-handed veteran for sure. Those people, Inui Banjin and Gein, must be his partners in crime."
"Were you able to discern why your opponent came to the dojo?"
"His master challenged Kenshin in the past and lost. But it's not like he's seeking his master's honor; he just didn't want to be seen as a loser because his master was defeated." Sagara frowned. "Someone like that doesn't deserve to fight Kenshin."
"Someone like that should have been arrested. We can't let them escape again." He looked at Sagara's bloody hand. His fingers hadn't moved yet, which was concerning. "You should go to the hospital too."
"I'm fine."
"At the very least, you should see Takani-san."
"She's probably gonna murder me herself." He muttered. "And did we just see a guy…come out of another guy?"
"I believe so, unless my old eyes deceive me." Koshijiro wearily said. "But I suspect that the larger one wasn't alive to begin with. A puppet of sorts, on a larger scale."
"Crazy shit, huh? Oh, hey. It's still here." Sagara kicked the head with an irritated growl. Koshijiro winced, but nothing happened. "We gotta do something, old man, or we're stuck in a corner!"
"We need answers from Himura-san. I understand he feels shame and guilt, but I think that if our safety is threatened, he'll act righteously."
And then, he heard it. The sound of an Armstrong cannon. Distant, but it must have hit within the city. The chief's house! Koshijiro mustered the remaining energy he had, to make his way there. Sagara tagged along, declaring that his injuries could wait for a few more minutes. They arrived to a grim scene; the fire brigade was extinguishing the burning remains of the chief's house. The recovering messenger informed them that the unconscious chief had been sent to Dr. Gensai's clinic for his injuries. His wife and daughter had gone to the station.
"And no sign of Kenshin either." Sagara grumbled. "I guess I'll start looking at the clinic."
"Please, get treatment too."
He sighed at the insistence. "I guess, if there's no one else in worse shape. I'll swing by the dojo in the morning."
However, Koshijiro stopped at his workplace, intending to speak to Chief Uramura's family. One of the rookies, Kobayashi, provided the update. "The assistant chief's returned, and he's questioning them now. The chief's wife seems like she's coping well, but his daughter was practically hysterical when they came in. From what I could tell, they don't know why they were attacked."
Koshijiro refrained from saying anything more, until Saito exited the interrogation room. He was uncharacteristically harried, most likely because of the interview, and dug in his pocket for cigarettes. He scarcely acknowledged Koshijiro, intoning. "In my office, Kamiya."
Dutifully, he followed, and Saito slammed the door shut. Koshijiro sat in the available spare chair, which felt brand new. "This night has been an ordeal. Is your family safe?"
"Tokio is capable of protecting the boys. They were fine, after I left the docks. You should know there wasn't a brawl. The balloons were stolen back." Saito held up a hand. "But I anticipated that and Sawagejo's on the streets, confirming the new location. One of the warehouses. We'll raid it once we have accurate details. Currently, we need to focus on the Maekawa dojo and the chief's house."
Koshijiro provided the timeline of events and what he'd witnessed. "Inui Banjin and Gein were the names of the dojo's attackers."
"And according to the chief's wife and daughter, they were ambushed by Otowa Hyoko." Three had been identified, how many more were there? "What else?"
"I don't know if it was the same Armstrong cannon, but there was another blast-"
"No, it was the same. But you're not telling the whole truth. What's the motivation? The sukiyaki restaurant, the kenjutsu dojo, the chief's house." Saito lifted a finger for each location. "All of these are connected to you and yours."
Koshijiro stared at him, refusing to flinch. "I don't know of anyone who would attack these places, because of me or my daughter."
"Then, it's because of Battousai?" Saito had cut to the core of the matter, and Koshijiro was unable to deny it. "It doesn't matter. Evil is evil, and needs to be slain immediately. We have work to accomplish, especially since many of our men are out of commission." His responsibilities must have increased drastically, since Chief Uramura was incapacitated.
Koshijiro was dismissed, and the noise of the station filled his ears. He offered his condolences to the chief's wife, who thanked him. The daughter was sullen, she only was about twelve or thirteen, and grudgingly bowed when her mother chastised her attitude. Then, he was caught up in the investigations' paperwork and he didn't leave until the early hours of the morning. The sky was just beginning to brighten, heralding the sun.
As he walked towards home, he squinted. Was that…Yahiko? Standing at the gate? "Yahiko, were you unable to sleep?"
Yahiko stubbornly shook his head, and in the growing light, dark circles appeared under his eyes. And his shinai was strapped to his back. "I'm keeping watch."
"…Were you out here all night?"
Before he could reply, there was a shout from the house. Kaoru sprinted out, with Tsubame in her wake. They had come to the same conclusion, Kaoru declaring. "Yahiko, I can't believe you! You never went to bed?!"
"This is the only thing I can do! I can't keep up with Kenshin or Sano, I can't fight alongside them!" His voice was choked with tears, and although he was trying to hold on to his dignity, his words were uneven. "S-so, I have to protect the dojo while they're gone. I can't do nothing! There's s-something, something bad going on. I can't be weak. I…I gotta try all I can!"
Kaoru seemed struck by his words, and she pensively stared at him.
Koshijiro clasped his shoulder. "You did well, Yahiko. But it's morning, and the danger's passed for now. Let's go inside, have breakfast, and I'll share what happened. We can continue waiting for Sagara-san and Himura-san, while we eat."
At his words, Kaoru recovered and she guided Yahiko by the elbow. "Otou-san's right. And you can only be strong on a full stomach. Thanks for looking out for us."
"I'll start cooking." Tsubame offered. "I'm not as good as Tae-san but I'll do my best too. Yahiko-kun…thank you."
He sniffled, burying his face in his sleeves. The tips of his ears were red, and he averted everyone's gazes until they were together at the table.
Breakfast was a light meal, but it was already mid-morning when Sagara knocked on the gate. Takani was with him, disdainfully eyeing at what he'd brought. The costume had been dragged from the Maekawa dojo, and without a person inside, it was a leathery bulbous sack. He hauled the costume into a corner of the backyard.
"Did you have to bring it?" Takani complained, as she set down her medicine box.
"I wanted to show Kaoru and Yahiko. This is Iwanbo, isn't it? Look, I'll try getting inside to see if they can remember."
"That's disgusting."
In the end, Sagara didn't follow through, and he didn't have to. Yahiko blinked in confusion at the costume, but Kaoru gasped when she saw the distorted face. "Ah, that's the guy whose head turned completely around! Misao and I thought that was weird. It makes much more sense, that it wasn't a real person at all. I wonder if the rest of the Ten Swords knew."
"I can ask Sawagejo." Koshijiro said. Then, the pieces fell together. "The warship's backer and the culprit responsible for these attacks are one and the same. Having this Iwanbo in the Ten Swords would ensure that Shishio was utilizing their investment appropriately." And the theft of the hot air balloons was partly a diversion, to draw the assistant chief away. The timing had not been a coincidence.
"So, even before the fight in Kyoto, they were already laying the groundwork for their own scheme." Sagara scowled.
"And what could that be?" Takani interjected. "If there's something you know, spit it out!" She smacked his uninjured arm.
"Hey, you know I can't use my right hand!"
"And you're lucky I was able to salvage what you have left!"
Koshijiro sensed his daughter's gaze. She wasn't angry, only inquisitive. "Otou-san, do you know?"
"Not all of it, not yet."
Takani finally relented, and Sagara cut a glance to Koshijiro. "When Kenshin's home, we'll talk. It wouldn't be right otherwise. I never did find him last night-"
"Kaoru-san!" Tsubame opened the sliding door, stumbling in her haste. "It's Kenshin-san, he's back! He's not hurt, but…" She struggled for words, her face distraught.
They rushed to the front. A heavy countenance surrounded Himura, even just by his gait. His shoulders were lowered, as if he was bearing an immense weight, and every step seemed an excruciating ordeal. As he approached them, his shoes scuffed the path but he didn't react. Underneath his bangs, his eyes were shadowed with gloom.
"Kenshin, welcome home." Kaoru softly said. "You must be tired. Are you going to sleep a little?"
"…Yes." His voice was barely audible. He didn't look at anyone, staggering on and into the house in utter silence.
"He's totally out of it." Sagara watched in disbelief.
"What's wrong with him?" Yahiko's voice was hoarse, and his forehead creased in concern.
Tsubame desperately turned to Kaoru. "Will you ask, Kaoru-san?"
"I shouldn't. I can't force him to talk. This is the first time I've seen Kenshin suffering so much." Heartache was in his daughter's eyes, the downturn of her mouth. "He probably hasn't had anything to drink. I'll leave some tea outside his room." Then, she quickly left.
The day slid by, as slowly as honey from the bottom of a jar. Koshijiro spent the remainder of the morning at work, waiting for Saito to have a spare moment. It was close to noon when the bureaucracy retreated, and he updated the assistant chief on the connection to Shishio. Saito didn't seem surprised; perhaps, he had an inkling already.
Sawagejo barged into the office halfway through, and upon the revelation, he hissed. "I knew it! I knew Iwanbo was weird, we never saw him eat or sleep or anything. Wait…whoever was inside was spying on us?"
"Listening on conversations, discerning the strengths and weaknesses of the Ten Swords." Saito sounded bored.
"Hey, Shishio wasn't naïve. He had Hoji dig dirt on everyone in our group. Iwanbo was supposed to be from Yokohama. Nothing about China or Shanghai."
"But the best cover stories are rooted in truth." Koshijiro said. "And Yokohama was the intended destination for the hot air balloons."
"Damn, it's all coming together. Guess I have to make a stop there."
"Be efficient." Saito added, adjusting his gloves. "We're short on time already." There was a knock, and he swore. He shooed them out, citing an upcoming meeting with Commissioner Kawaji. He clearly hated the workplace politics, and Koshijiro felt sorry for him.
In the afternoon, the heat was stifling, and Koshijiro returned home with trepidation. "I'm back."
At first, there was no response, and his stomach twisted. Then, Kaoru called from the kitchen. "Otou-san, welcome home."
He exhaled and headed towards her. "How is everyone?"
She was standing with a cup of water, spending her break away from the dojo. "Taking it easy. Kenshin's still sleeping and I don't want to bother him." Her smile was strained. "So much has happened in the past few days…"
"Is it too overwhelming, Kaoru?"
"I'm okay, Otou-san. Everybody's safe and together, that's the least I can ask for now. It feels like forever ago, that we were demonstrating Hadome and Hizadome in Kyoto." Then, she squared her shoulders. "I'm considering teaching Yahiko the succession techniques. Is that alright? He hasn't even been a student for a full year, and it took me almost three years before I could use the techniques in battle. But Jinchuu…"
"It's unusual, but we're in unusual circumstances. Above all, you are his teacher and the best judge of his ability." He replied.
Kaoru pressed her lips together, before nodding. "Right. I think Yahiko's ready. No, I know he is. He may be young, but he already understands that strength is about protecting people. That's what Kamiya Kasshin is."
"Exactly. May I observe the lesson?"
"Of course!"
Yahiko perked up immediately when Kaoru announced she'd teach him. "Really?!" He jumped into the air, the liveliest he'd been all day. He was incredibly eager to catch a shinai with the backs of his hands. "Come on, strike at me!"
"Nope, not yet." Kaoru shook her head. "You saw already from our demo, but understanding the hilt is the basis of the succession techniques. You have to solidify your knowledge of the hilt first."
Koshijiro set a floor cushion by the door and watched their drills. Kaoru was defending, while Yahiko performed offensive strikes…only using the hilt.
"Why?!" Yahiko found the challenge difficult. He was certainly clumsier, but Koshijiro could tell that he was doing quite well.
"Otou-san made me do this too, when I was younger. You'll get it once you learn the techniques." In the past, Kaoru had bemoaned this exercise, but after many sessions, she grasped the true message. It was about the dimensions and limitations of the hilt. One's grip could easily be lost during the blade catch; by practicing with extensive focus on the hilt, maintaining a hold on the shinai would become second nature.
Tsubame slipped into the dojo, and Koshijiro grabbed another cushion for her. She whispered her thanks. "Yahiko-kun is much better."
Indeed, the goal had revitalized his spirit. Sweat poured down his forehead and temples, but his gaze was burning with newfound determination. Every repetition was different than the previous. He was an excellent student, adjusting his approach each time. His concentration remained on Kaoru's next move, even as Sagara barged in, wanting to see. Takani joined them as well, seizing the opportunity to apply fresh bandages to his right hand. The only one missing was Himura.
Perhaps, I should check on him. Koshijiro thought. Then, as if his mind was read, the door slid open.
"Oh, Kenshin-san." Tsubame looked up at him with round eyes, and Koshijiro inclined his head.
Himura looked a little better, the sleep had helped. But he still seemed worn out, and his gaze landed on Kaoru. She had just disarmed Yahiko again.
"No, you're still using the blade! Honestly, I'm tempted to give you an old broken hilt." She noticed Himura and stopped. For a moment, they stared at each other. She turned away first, addressing Tsubame. "Tsubame, can we switch off? Take my shinai and block Yahiko. One hundred more hits, Yahiko. With the hilt."
"Aw, what?!" Yahiko whined. Tsubame audibly gulped, as the shinai was passed to her. To Koshijiro's knowledge, she'd never touched the dojo equipment before, and that fact was quickly reinforced. The drill continued, with the additional sounds of Yahiko's war cries and Tsubame's little squeaks at the collision of bamboo against bamboo.
Himura asked. "Kaoru-dono, what is this?"
She didn't sit, leaning against the wall instead. Koshijiro handed her a cloth to wipe her face, and she briskly dried off. "Yahiko's preparing to learn the succession technique. It'll take a long time, but he's ready to take the first step. He knows something's going on, and he wants to help, however he can. To improve, for himself and everyone here." She was proud of his progress, and she draped the cloth around her neck.
"…Yes. Yahiko is advancing and he may make mistakes, but not the same ones this one has. Even Yahiko has a sense of the truth…" He trailed off. The heavy atmosphere was collecting around him, his bangs concealing his eyes.
Koshijiro stood, but he didn't know what to say, for Himura to reveal his thoughts. He was painfully aware of his inadequacy at talking about emotions. But…his daughter was an expert at dispelling such melancholy feelings.
Gently, Kaoru reached out to Himura. Not touching his face but garnering his attention, her fingers hovering under his chin. Instinctively, he lifted his gaze to her, almost startled by the motion. Her voice was soft, coaxing. "Before that, are you sure you're not hurt? You can always talk later. At least, let Megumi examine you soon. Please?" And her smile was pure, only compassion for his well-being.
The tension fled Himura, and he murmured. "Thank you, Kaoru-dono." In the next instant, his own hand encircled her forearm. He wasn't hurting her, but he didn't speak. He also wasn't letting go.
The dojo fell silent, as everyone's eyes turned to them. Kaoru's cheeks steadily grew pink. The spot between Koshijiro's eyebrows began to ache, with how much suspicion he was directing towards Himura.
"Um, Kenshin?" Kaoru stammered.
"Sanosuke's wounds. Yahiko's sweat. And your warmth, Kaoru-dono. These are not illusions." He looked at each of them in turn, gravely serious. "There's something all of you must hear, about the current battle…and its beginnings. After dinner, this one will tell you."
And at last, here was the truth. When night fell, the clouds had cleared to unveil the array of stars. They sat in a circle outside, their undivided attention on Himura. He had his thoughts together, and he spoke slowly and deliberately.
"This morning, while this one was walking back, the mastermind behind Jinchuu revealed himself. Yukishiro Enishi, this one's brother. Or rather, brother-in-law. He is the younger brother of Himura Tomoe, who was this one's wife." At this, Koshijiro glanced at Kaoru, her expression stunned even before Himura confessed. "And this one killed her."
It was very late when Himura finally ended the tale of his past, and they only had the energy to shuffle to bed.
Himura's past had been tragic, and it was no wonder he carried the burden. The cross-shaped scar on his cheek was the result of two deaths by his hand. He truly had killed his first wife with a katana, albeit unintentionally. Koshijiro wondered how he was faring, but it was best to leave him alone for the night. However, Himura had felt comfortable enough to share. He had trusted all of them, and the invisible distance that had caused him to drift away was gone.
Koshijro laid in his futon, trying to get comfortable. As exhausted as he was, he couldn't fall asleep. He tossed aside his blanket.
Yukishiro had told Himura that in ten days, Jinchuu would take place at the Kamiya dojo. He had five allies, most of whom they'd already met, but the extent of their abilities was hardly demonstrated. They had months to plot their revenge. Ten days was a paltry deadline, a taunt even. Koshijiro began to pace, and his room was small. He strode through the hallway, navigating through the darkness.
Voices drifted near the front door and he peered out. "Sagara-san? Yahiko? Were you unable to sleep?"
"I'm standing guard." Sagara explained. He was cross-legged on the steps, his bandaged right hand resting at his side. "Even if Jinchuu's happening in ten days, they just might attack us before then."
"And I'm practicing Hadome!" Yahiko had his wrists crossed above his head. His persistence paid off and he had improved greatly with wielding the hilt. Kaoru provided the condition that if he pretended to catch a blade ten thousand times, she would strike at him. "How's my form, Kamiya-san?"
Koshijiro observed his repetitions. "You have the basics, but you're not grounded enough." To demonstrate, he approached and lightly tapped the outside of Yahiko's knee with his foot. Yahiko struggled for balance, and Koshijiro shoved against him, using the open palm of his hand. He emphasized. "You need to withstand the weight of your opponent's blow. Let the energy pass through your body, and feel the earth underneath absorb it instead. Otherwise, your form will collapse."
Sagara laughed. "You're bullying him, old man!"
"Shut up, Sano!" Yahiko fumed. And he pushed back against Koshijiro, finding his stance and locking in. His knees were bent at the right angle, and he straightened his posture with confidence. "How's this?"
"Much better. Do you agree?"
"Yeah, thanks!" He glanced at Koshijiro's left shoulder. "So with Hizadome, you have to be even more grounded?"
"Yes, because I only have one arm to fight back against an opponent's two. I have yet to encounter an opponent who could overpower me. I may have to change the technique."
"Huh? Just like that?"
"It isn't usually done, but I've always viewed Kamiya Kasshin as a work in progress. The majority of what I've developed has only been tested in the dojo. If reality is different, then the techniques must change to reflect what is possible."
"Well, I get Hawatari's a disarming move, but what about breaking your opponent's sword? Is that possible?" He was earnestly serious.
"I don't know. It would have to be attempted first, but it's an interesting idea."
"Yeah." His thoughtfulness lingered, before he vigorously resumed crossing his wrists.
"Both of you should try to rest." Koshijiro said. "Strength is recovered through sleep."
"I took naps during the day, but I'll put Yahiko to bed in an hour." Sagara assured.
Yahiko paused in a crouching position. "No way, I'm taking second watch."
"Not if I knock you out."
"Hey!"
Koshijiro walked on, following the moonlight to the backyard, and he was surprised to find his daughter on the porch. She blinked at him. "Otou-san? You're still awake?"
He slowed to a stop and sat beside her. "I needed the exercise. What about you?" He carefully asked. During Himura's retelling, she was quiet. She only spoke once, to tell him to keep going. She had borne the entirety of the tale without giving away any of her own emotions.
"I just wanted some fresh air." She paused. "Megumi and I were talking. She mentioned that she would have done the same in Tomoe-san's place. I wouldn't have, I would live. I know Kenshin would only blame himself more if I died. But Megumi said I was thinking of what I would have done instead…"
Koshijiro tilted his face, letting the cool night air wash over his skin. "To me, it is a futile exercise of thought. You are yourself, and you can only act as yourself. As someone who has sworn to protect life with the sword, as the master of Kamiya Kasshin. As the brave, kind young woman you've become, who has opened the dojo to everyone here. And from what I've seen over the past months, I'm confident Himura-san would agree with you. He would not smile at all, if you sacrificed yourself."
"Otou-san," She hugged him, her hair smelling of the jasmine soap she used. "You're being very nice. Thank you."
Embarrassed, he patted her head. "I would question what I've taught you all these years, if you answered otherwise." The words came out harsher than he meant to.
"Are you upset?"
"A little." He admitted. "I do not like the implication of you dying before me. Children bury their parents, not the other way around."
Kaoru sadly smiled. "Before Okaa-san was in the hospital, she told me to cherish my life. She really loved us, she wanted nothing more than to live with us."
"Yes, that's right." Even now, the memory of Kyoko's anguish caused his heart to ache. "Kaoru, I need to tell you something."
"Hm?"
"Last year, in Satsuma, right before the explosion that took my arm, all I could think of was you. That I wouldn't be coming home, like I said I would."
"Otou-san…" She looked helplessly at him.
"When I woke up, I was incredibly grateful to be alive. I remember that feeling, whenever there's a phantom pain or if I reach for something to my left. I see everyone in the house and the dojo, and I think how fortunate it is, that I'm here to experience every day. I never would have, if I died in Satsuma. As a boy, I grew up with the notion that death was honorable, but it isn't. Living is far worthier, with the people you care for. Your choice is correct. Do not doubt that, ever."
"I won't." And she seemed surer, her eyes bright with inner courage. Then, the corner of her mouth lifted. "I think Okaa-san would fuss over you, if she could see you now. She'd make sure you never have to reach to your left at all."
"I had a dream of her in the hospital. We were sitting in this very spot, and she told me to go home, please."
Kaoru grinned. "That sounds like Okaa-san. I haven't dreamed about her recently, but I know she's here." She pressed her hand to her heart. A breeze rustled her hair, and she tucked a lock behind her ear. "Oh, I wonder if she would have fussed over this."
"She certainly would. Is it still there?"
"Barely. No, you don't have to look, you always get so guilty about it." She grumbled. "It's fine! It's not a big deal, literally."
Still, he felt remorseful. "Alright. But remember what I said."
"Don't worry, Otou-san. If Megumi brings it up again, my response will be better. I won't throw away the life that you and Okaa-san gave me." She gave him a parting kiss on the cheek, before rising to her feet. "Go to bed soon, okay? Good night."
"Good night, Kaoru." He lingered on the porch for a few more minutes, occupied with thinking over what to do.
Ten days.