A fine lady

by FallenAngelItachi

May 1878; Saitou Hajime reveals to Himura Kenshin and Makimachi Misao he's married to Tokio, praising her as a capable woman. But what makes a woman capable in Saitou's eyes? Let's turn back the clock fifteen years and two months to find out.

32. …and ill tidings

A/N: Yes. This is true. This is an update. Sorry for the long, long, long, long, long, long, loooooooooong wait. Sorry. So sorry. I'm sorry. Here's the next chapter. Not much else to say other than I am so sorry and so thankful to all you wonderful people who keep me going no matter what. I love you. So, to you all my amazing readers, have the new installment.

Historical facts:
1) Ito Kashitarou joins the Shinsegumi late 1864, with high hopes.
2)Sakuma Ikujiro joins the Shinsegumi late 1864 in hopes of avenging his father's death.

Timeline: October 1864 - January 1865.

---

A fine lady...

...and ill tidings.

When Matsudaira-sama heard the news of Ayame and Saitou's marriage not being a thing that same night, he grew a tiny bit sad. He honestly came to care for the young man, capable and trustworthy as he was. Saitou had never let him down and to think they did instead, by presenting him with an underwhelming choice, left a bitter taste in his mouth. He really wanted to do something good for him, pay him back for everything; and he knew Kojuuro felt the same, no doubt.

It wasn't too long after that that a most peculiar idea was born in his mind; in fact it was two weeks later, when Kojuuro's letter reached him. It spoke of sadness from his part, too, for failing to find him a proper bride and how, despite his calculations, old feelings did not resurface within him. Kojuuro had questioned whether or not Saitou already had someone in his eye after all. Matsudaira had concluded that could not be it; not only did the men slowly drift away from the red light district lately – hence making it impossible for him to have fallen for a geisha – they were far too focused on their duties in general. The only woman he had any contact with was Tokio, actually and even her he saw scarcely.

Especially now, when new duties and members were presented to them. Case in point, there were two notable recruits who entered the unit and both of them took an immediate liking to Saitou.

First one was Sakuma Ikujiro; he was the son of a great political thinker siding with those who wanted the country to open to the foreigners, Sakuma Souzan. Souzan was assassinated by the infamous Hitokiri Battousai that same summer. It was that assassination the son came to avenge, all the way from Chiba, thus, the only reasonable thing he had to do was enlist in the Shinsengumi. Seeing Saitou was the one in charge of finding the Hitokiri – and the only one to have fought with him and lived to tell the tale – they became fast friends. At least, the man shadowed him plenty and stroke up conversation with him whenever he felt like it.

Then there was the man by the name Itou Kashitarou. He was a member of a good family, but his family was expelled from the han's they protected estate, due to reasons. The man joined the Itou dojo, where he married the instructor's daughter and upon entering the Shinsengumi changed his name from Okura to Kashitarou. He was educated and cunning. Whether because their intellects matched, or Itou was fascinated by Saitou's character, it was obvious he too took a liking to the tall, surly man. And to think Kondou had taken quite a liking to Kashitarou, it served as a double compliment.

All in all, these past two months, Saitou was proving his worth time and again, making the man feel a little guiltier every time he thought about him. It wasn't often, granted, seeing they had so many things to take care of, but still, the thought existed. It was no wonder his mind went where it did, after all. He just didn't feel like saying anything to anyone before he could warm them up to the idea first. But right now, they had much more pressing matters to attend to...such as the issue Saitou was scheduled to report to him today.

A murder.

"Tokio, my dear, can you do me a favour?"

Her head snapped towards him, whose head barely appeared behind her door; the pestle in her hands came to a stop. "Of course, my lord; please tell me what you need."

"Saitou is scheduled to arrive for a report today, not before noon, but I'm afraid, I have to be gone until well after four. It is paramount I receive that report though, so I want him to wait...thus, I was wondering if you could greet him in my stead and entertain him until I come back."

Her heart beat a mile per minute, just by him mentioning the name; now that he mentioned what he wanted her to do, she could barely hide her enthusiasm! It was too hard, trying not to smile like an idiot at the prospect of seeing him and being with him for so long without being bothered.

But she tried her best and bowed deeply. "My lord, I shall receive him for you and be a most welcoming hostess until you come back."

"Oh, thank you so much! I'd hate to have to ask any of my darling wives to do it and I know you two get along well."

She tried not to blush - too much - . "Indeed, we do; he keeps pleasant company."

"I am very glad. I shall be going now. Please instruct the servants to do as you wish until I return."

And just like that, he was out the door and undoubtedly, on his way to his secret – but not that secret – meeting. A wide smile spread on her face, as soon as she was sure no one was around to see her; today would be a good day.

.

.

"Hajime-san," she graced him with a deep bow "welcome to our estate."

"Tokio-sama," he inclined his head in return "thank you for having me."

Flanked by servants as she was and the guards' ever-watchful eyes on them, it became impossible to expend with formalities as they would have liked. Instead, he was treated to a real, full-blown procession. It was matching with Tokio's outfit though – an extravagant, cute kimono of purple and blue hues – so something told him this was deliberate.

"The pleasure is all ours; follow me inside, please." Immediately, everyone, including her, turned around. "His lordship is absent at the moment, I am afraid, but asked me to take his place until he returns. Naturally, I do not know what you men had scheduled, but I am confident I can keep you adequately entertained until then."

Per usual, he simply nodded to show his approval. "Then, if you'd please, follow me to the examination room. I thought it wise to start from there, seeing I haven't been informed of your state of health for quite a while."

"As the lady wishes."

"As for the rest of you," she addressed the four servants around her – Ochako, Kachako and two men – "I would appreciate it if you went to the main room and set everything up for when the treatment is over."

"As you wish, my lady," the twins hastily agreed, pulling the other two with them.

Saitou smirked. He bet that's why he chose these two, to make her life easier. And yet, even after there was no guard or servant around, she remained formal, walking ahead of him, leading him to a place he knew how to get by heart. When they reached she stood to her full height before kneeling down and dutifully opening the door for him, all grace and airs.

"Please, come inside," she requested and he easily did so; she waited until he was seated to get in herself.

And that was when all formalities were finally shed as she all but jumped into his arms!

"It's been so long!" She wrapped her hands around his neck and squeezed as tight as she could. "I've missed you so much...how have you been?"

"It's only been a month, you know," he teased but made no effort to extricate her from his person; if anything, he held her there, trying to catch her scent "you haven't seen me longer than that."

"It's been two months actually; previous two times don't count, I only saw you for ten minutes." She shook her head. "And you are incorrigible," her head now buried in his fabrics at the crook of his neck. She let her hands go and repositioned them at his back, clutching. "Haven't seen me for so long and all you do is tease."

"But I did see you; a week ago, at the market." She finally let go to get a proper good look at him, questioning and curious. "You were in the company of a certain young lord with a flair for the dramatic who was standing a little too close."

He didn't even have to finish his sentence for her to shake her head disappointed, as a sigh escaped her. "His father pressured Matsudaira-sama into the meeting. Thankfully neither my lord nor I are friendly with them, simply courteous." But then her eyes took that unique shine and her small smirk was almost cute. "Were you worried he might have been a suitor or just a jealous?"

"You think too much," he snubbed and only then did she realise he never let go of her because his hands pushed her to him and he met her lips in a surprise kiss. She giggled through it and gave him a quick peck of her own. "Now treat me, hime-sama; I feel like getting fondled."

"Hajime!" She was both offended and laughing. "I am not fondling you; I am taking care of you."

"Currently, you're doing neither."

"Maybe I'd do both if you let go of me."

"Nah, this is fine...just one more moment..."

She couldn't blame him; she actually agreed with him. She hadn't seen him for too long, mind and body were protesting; pressed against him as she was, it felt too good to move. His head on her shoulder, breathing in her pleasant aroma, it made her neck tickle each time he exhaled. It was so familiar and natural...she didn't really want to move.

"Alright, enough is enough; do your thing before anyone walks in and finds us like this."

Another giggle. "Whatever the guest wishes."

"How come Matsudaira had to go anyway? This was scheduled almost a week ago."

"You don't know this, but a Bakufu vessel came all the way from Edo to have a talk with him; it was very last moment, very urgent, he couldn't not go."

"Why," he asked the heavens with abandon "why is it that you know everything?"

"They just tell me; I'm not extorting it out of anyone..."

"But that would make sense."

She shrugged, a little arrogant. "I just have one of those faces that people can't say no to."

The snort was reflexive. "I should know."

She hummed pleasantly. "Just please take off your clothes, Hajime-sama."

There was a pleasant stir in his gut at her words; he hated how she knew how to manipulate his mood so well, but at the same time, he didn't. "Why don't you do it for me?"

"I, what?"

Her cheeks became bright red as the ability to form proper sentences slowly returned; when she saw he wasn't backing down, she had to look down to the side, a very humble look in her eyes. "As you wish..."

She reached out steady but sluggish; she didn't know if she was building up the tension deliberately or she was just too scared to touch him on her own, but it was nothing short of torture to know she was about to undress him with her own two hands. She dared not look at him, for his smug little smirk did nothing to help with her palpitations. She took to scooting a little closer but sitting in a position which faced him directly proved to be a mistake because she could always see his satisfaction in her peripheral. She would not be intimidated by his challenge or her anticipation though and finally grabbed the hitatare and pulled it free from the hakama without ruining the knot.

He was not moving thus not helping, but at the same time he was poised in a way that was easy to manage; she could feel his eyes trained on her as she moved from the front to the side then gently at the back and then the front again, careful to keep her fingers strictly on the fabric. Of course, when one has two layers of clothes to get rid of, the first one is easy; it was the second that proved tricky. And as she was doing her best to remove the inner layer, her fingers grazed his skin at the shoulders...

A small shiver broke on his skin that seemed to transfer from him to her. It was amazing how differently things could be looked at with only one variable changing. she used to touch him all over, hit him even, when he was half undressed like this; she would impassively watch him undress or force his hand to do it plenty of times, too. But now, the thought of undressing him and accidentally touching him felt scandalous.

Because, this once, he had asked.

Now she had to deal with thoughts that quite honestly had never crossed her mind before, not with such intensity or prominence, and she was left wondering what should she do next to try and keep this as...proper as possible. She kept staring at her hands helpless, as if she didn't know how to work them anymore. Actually, she kept staring at the white fabric because she had all but forgotten she had dug her hands underneath in an effort to remove it all at once, in hopes of avoiding any similar mishaps. She only remembered when she heard Saitou groan in protest and shrug his shoulders.

"I may be one of the most disciplined soldiers in the Shinsengumi, hime-sama, but in the end, I'm still a man." She jolted out of whatever train of thought she was following to look down at him and how shamelessly she was standing in front of him, hands on his back. "Stop that."

He wasn't smug anymore and it felt like a little victory but there was something very primal in the way he was looking at her. She was too fascinated to move though, so he had to do it, hand by hand, with purposefully exaggerated motions.

"Don't try to call my bluff again." He finally composed himself enough to extract himself. "Ever."

She giggled. "Whatever the guest wishes."

But the layers were already off, so now all she needed to do was examine him. She fell into old habits entirely too fast and before she knew it, she was making a list of things she needed to look at—a couple of cuts here, some persistent bruises there...piece of cake. And what a relief to see he didn't get too hurt the time he spent away from her.

"What kind of report were you supposed to give to Matsudaira-sama? It must have been important."

She could feel his eyes on her, evaluating. "And if I don't want to tell you?"

"You have every right to keep silent, as I too have every right to ask."

He snorted. "You should just say it."

"Say what?"

"Whether I reveal it or not, you're still going to know; he'll tell you." She tried not to smirk. "That's the only reason you aren't pushing for more." The way she shrugged, all arrogance and flair, made up his mind and with a sigh he informed "there's been a murder." His tone became serious again. "Someone you too have met, actually."

Her eyes turned from surprised to questioning. "The good doctor who's been taking care of us lately, whom you seem to deride from the bottom of your heart, was found dead more than one week ago."

Her mouth hang as her hands stilled for one second; he nodded morosely as if to confirm it.

"He was gone for three days, holed up in a whorehouse." She clicked her tongue in distaste reflexively. "When we finally needed him, thus went to get him, we didn't find him." She became suspicious. "So, we left and tried another famous establishment very close by...where we did find him, thrown out the back, missing a head."

She looked away. "That is horrible."

"And even worse, we still haven't found out who did it or why; we have theories though. Of course, given the developments last night, we might have found a general perpetrator as well as motive." She inclined her head to show her interest as she was dabbing a soaked cotton on one of his bruises. "It is the Ishin Shishi who did it, to weaken the Shinsengumi as a unit."

She gaped for the second time as her eyes focused on his this once, cotton on the floor. "Wh-what happened? What developments caused you to think that?"

"Do you remember Hitaka Kou, the other good doctor who tried to kidnap you? He was found dead in his cell, tortured to death by peoples unknown." She was blown away by the news. "Yes, he was very much dead; second victim, second doctor of the unit. See a pattern?"

"Are you certain that's the motive?"

"Of course not, we have nothing definitive. But we are certain it was done by the same people—as well as there being more than just the one doing it. There was evidence of torture on this doctor, so there's a different process, but both deaths were caused by a blade. No other instrument. And the clean cut reminds me of the Battousai."

"But I thought...he was an assassin. Why would he-?"

"That's the thing; I don't think he was the one torturing. I think they called him in, in the end, to perform the killing, when all information were gathered."

"And he was no longer useful."

He nodded. "But that's just one theory. There's another prevalent one, one that Hijikata favours: these men met their ends by people they wronged. It was no secret these doctors were forced to treat us due to misdeeds in their past; he believes they caught up with them. And maybe the killer is only reminiscent of the Battousai, not really him. After all, it is only an inclination of mine; the vice-commander doesn't share my belief wholeheartedly."

"I see..." She considered for a while, hand on her chin. "What do your instincts tell you?"

"That the patriots are trying to gather information by the weakest links, who are the easiest to break. There's also the fact they are men of medicine who help us. Their mere existence can be considered a threat to them."

"I see...does that mean I would be in danger, too if I was known for my healing abilities?"

Saitou glared. "Don't even joke about that."

That's when she waved him away, a chuckle following as she recommenced her ministrations. "No one knows what I do for you; the fact I was at your headquarters remained a very well guarded secret, I'd never be targeted. There isn't enough information for that."

"Unless..." Saitou was suddenly very upset "they talked."

"But the latest doctor wasn't tortured, right? Only Hitaka Kou was."

"He, too knew of your interest in medicine."

"But nothing other than that. I am too high profile of a target, Hajime; they'd never dare. The Matsudaira compound is impregnable."

"Say what you like, I'll be telling his lordship everything."

Of course he would, she knew, shaking her head. "Do what you want; I'm right."

"We'll see..."

The moment they chose to pause the conversation felt poor; he didn't want that to be his final thought, it would eat away at him until he could be debriefed. And to think Tokio was completely unaffected by this, it made him nervous. He had to change the subject. "So, what do you have planned next?"

Her smile became wide; she kept glancing at him with pride every now and then but didn't bother answering until she finished her examination some seconds later. That's when she sat better and looked at him.

"A formal tea ceremony."

.

.

Saitou had never witnessed a tea ceremony before. And the first time he ever did, he happened to be the guest of honour. How ego-striking. If he told anyone about this back at HQ, they'd die of jealousy. Correction, when he told them about this, they'd kill him for being the one to receive it again, instead of them. The thought alone made him smirk.

The ceremony itself was very formal and full of tradition; the proper way to hold the kettle, how to stir the liquid, how to deposit the crockery...and she did it all as exceptionally as anyone would. He wouldn't know, but the pride and admiration in all ten servants' eyes was enough of a tell. Ochako in particular was about to cry of happiness. He had to remind Nagakura to pay her a visit later, as thanks; that would make her even happier.

No matter, it was all so traditional and proper, he loved it. This is what he was made for, he felt, for despite it being tedious and agonisingly slow, he could not be more engaged. Well, maybe it had to do with the fact he kept staring at Tokio's hands and how delicately they moved; her head, and how it was perfectly positioned to denote both elegance and a higher status. Or how extremely calm and beautiful she looked in general.

It was a shame the lord returned nearly five minutes after the ceremony was over. He had never consumed better-tasting tea; he had never had a more calming experience. He wanted to hold her hand and kiss her forehead to show how much he appreciated it, but he didn't have the opportunity in the end.

The positive thing was, the lord was all but ecstatic with this development. Other than being impressed at her choice of pastime, he was thrilled Saitou seemed to enjoy it so much. That man was too good to be in the position he was sometimes.

Thankfully, the man was also prudent; the moment Saitou shared his suspicions with him, even if the second theory was presented as well, with all of Hijikata's weight on the matter, the lord favoured the option of putting more guards around Tokio at all times. Discreetly though, in case the doctor hadn't talked, she wouldn't be betrayed by the extra protection. After that, the conversation devolved into pointless back and forth until the lord asked him about Ayame.

"We are all invited to her brother's wedding," the lord mentioned in passing, presenting an invitation. "Hijikata, too," he remarked a little amused "though I do not presume to know why."

That was rather unexpected, if he was being honest; but maybe Ayame schemed to get Hijikata to be Tokio's date again. Well, not this once. "Me neither," he lied expertly "and I don't think he'd even accept the invitation. He has so many things to do here, he can't spare even two days to go. But I shall ask anyway."

"I'd love to," Hijikata absently replied, feigning disinterest in Saitou's reaction – despite watching him like a hawk – . "How considerate of her to include me."

"You mean, you're going?" He nodded nonchalant; Saitou started feeling his temper rising. "Since when do you care about Ayame's brother's wedding?"

"Isn't Matsudaira going, too?" When his suspicions were confirmed by a nod, he smirked. "If his lordship doesn't scorn the invitation, why should I?" The tall man said nothing. "Why don't you go tell his lordship we two will be joining him on this trip? He could take two less guards with him. So," he changed the subject "what did he say about the murders?"

"He said he can't pick one theory he liked more, but increased security around Tokio, anyway."

"Smart choice; I just hope this whole matter is resolved by the time we leave."

"Two weeks, huh...? I could do it."

"Heh, you're confident. Wanna speed things up because you're worried about her being targeted?" Saitou's expression betrayed just how tasteless he found his superior. "Or maybe you're hoping it's the Battousai and you have another lead about him after such a long absence." Hijikata had to laugh at the way Saitou rolled his eyes about all these misconceptions and inaccurate motives the man was unashamedly presenting. "No matter, if you believe it to be him, take Sakuma with you."

Of course, he was looking for the Battousai, too, even if he did it for an entirely different reason than Saitou: revenge and justice didn't go hand in hand, as far as he was concerned, but he knew that personal grudges were too motivating, especially for men. And the man wasn't immoral either, so that was a plus. In fact, Sakuma was already accepted into their party of four – almost five if one counted Toudou Heisuke – due to his kind disposition and easy-going personality...that turned into obsession once the Battousai was mentioned. Oh well, they all had their little problems.

So, Saitou nodded with every formality to his vice-commander and turned about in one fluid motion. He was out the door, searching for the young man immediately. He'd definitely love this assignment. Hopefully, Itou would not be sour about not being included; tch, that man could be sour about anything. Sometimes Saitou felt like people were walking on eggshells around him and he hated that. But, so far, he had proven...alright.

.

.

The first week passed very, very eventfully. Another man was killed: the doctor they had for that brief time when their first doctor betrayed them and the one they had until half a month ago came—Tokio notwithstanding. He was assassinated actually, the first one to be so clearly targeted by the Battousai.

Because now not even Hijikata could deny it: this slash, unflinching and solitary, deep and grave, could be the work of only one person: the red-haired Hitokiri with the cross shaped scar on his left cheek. And Sakuma Ikujiro was about to burst out of his skin from the sheer anticipation. Saitou, though, was nearly as happy to ascertain the theory for it only meant one thing: should Tokio be targeted, they had to protect her from him.

But his partner couldn't possibly pick up on that; Okita, though, could. And did. And when he shared the news with the vice-commander and then his friends – it wasn't a clandestine assignment – only one person knew to pat his back as encouragingly as he could. Even Nagakura didn't realise what it meant, simply because no one had made the connection with her. She was a woman after all, overlooked by most.

"Maybe that will work in her favour with the shishi, too," Okita tried to cheer him up and it didn't prove completely futile. After all, even if the Battousai thought outside the box, it was obvious he was only following orders; maybe those who gave the orders weren't as progressive.

But Matsudaira certainly was as paranoid as Saitou, for upon revelation of the fact, he became as white as his papers. "That was the one thing that was made certain? That the one dealing the decisive blows is the Battousai?"

"Yes, my lord," Saitou admitted bitterly, head inclining in shame. "We still can't be sure if the target is solely the unit or the crimes of the men being killed. After all, we found Tenchuu notes on all of them." He shrugged. "And we did find this man, too had dealings with the patriots only to turn his back on them for one reason or the other."

The lord's sigh was too heavy; Sakuma, standing next to Saitou, tried to inspire confidence, unaware of the real reason both men were so dispirited. "This is an opportunity, my lord! We will finally catch this killer and bring him to justice for all of his crimes. Whether chance or not, it is obvious that healers connected with our unit are being targeted, it can't be a coincidence; we just need to predict his next target and get there before he does."

The fire lit in his eyes made their black even darker, in a very disconcerting way; he burnt for revenge, the chance he met with the assassin but he couldn't have picked a worse time to say it. "Yes, Sakuma, we know; but people one does not expect can be caught up in this..."

Saitou knew no discreeter way to tell someone to shut up and drop it; hopefully he'd get it. "My lord, I suggest you leave security as is; only choose more skilled people."

The way the lord looked up at him, made Saitou feel guilty. "But not us; we have to get the bottom of this. You have strong men at your disposal. Use them."

"I...I know, I understand." He almost collapsed in his chair. "And to think we need to depart for the wedding in a week."
"That would be the best, my lord; if they are after the one we worry about, they will certainly try to strike. But both Hijikata-san and I will be escorting you, there won't be a problem then. The problem is the week that is left."

"Indeed...Sakuma," the young man whipped his head around to face the lord so fast, his ponytail hit him in the face "I appoint you the head of this assignment for as long as we will be away from the capital; the moment we leave for Edo, this becomes your case entirely. Hopefully, you won't need to take on these duties, but either way, make me proud."

"Yessir."

"Thank you; and now, you are both dismissed." As if on cue, there was a knock on the door. "Ah, there she is; come on in, Tokio."

Both young men turned to the door, but their expressions were very different; Sakuma had heard all about the beauty of Aizu and her kind heart – but no one ever told him why she was considered such a big heart – and he was a little too curious to see what she looked like. Saitou, on the other hand, was almost upset, if not a little hopeful, about her entrance, since the facts of this case still haunted him.

When she appeared, drawing the door open, Sakuma couldn't help the smile that took over his face, nor the way he suddenly stood straighter or puffed out his chest. The man next to him noticed, but decided not to roll his eyes and simply acknowledged her with a curt nod.

"Matsudaira-sama, I didn't know you had guests. Saitou-san; and you must be Sakuma-san, yes?" He affirmed excitedly. "Forgive me for intruding."

"Ah, no such thing; they were just leaving."

"We were, indeed," Saitou waved her worry away "please, engage the lord as you wish."

"See men, Tokio, Toshihime and myself will be going for a walk; I haven't had one of those for ages...! But it's always my wife that finishes her preparations last, so Tokio came to fetch me."

Tokio giggled in her sleeve – of the quite impressive kimono she was wearing, bold colours and designs everywhere – and Sakuma felt his heart skip a beat. "But you rarely take her out for a walk, my lord; she wants to look her best. Maybe that way she can tempt you to take her out more often."

The lord laughed boisterously, allowing for the two men to express their mirth by way of smiling or smirking. "What a cunning plan! Well, my wife is quite smart." He then looked at her keenly, appreciating how Tokio had chosen a finer kimono, but otherwise was very ordinary. "But you're used to walks and thus chose a modest outfitthat would match her?"

Her smile became shy and avoided looking at Saitou entirely as she timidly squeaked "a young, unmarried lady such as myself should not overshadow the married lady in her company..."

"Then how are we expected to get you married? Whose eye are you going to catch?"

For an unfathomable reason, Matsudaira directly looked at Saitou, as if trying to include him in the conversation; Tokio changed ten colours upon noticing the lord then winking at him and Saitou casually smirking, nearly as much as usual though to his credit, and cleared his throat. It was obvious he was caught off guard to her, but neither the lord nor Sakuma seemed to notice – the latter was too busy staring gobsmacked at his peer – .

"I don't think she has any sort of trouble attracting the attention of men my lord, embellished or not," Saitou teased and the lord laughed "her record so far has proven the opposite, in fact."

"Too...too true," Matsudaira managed through chuckles, Sakuma now about to gawk at the rapport they shared.

"I advise you allow the dog to accompany you, too for maximum security," the tall man continued and all but the newcomer nodded in understanding "he is particularly skilled in driving men away from her."

"But I thought the goal was to find her someone," Matsudaira commented amused.

"If he's so easily scared, he isn't worth it."

Despite being on high alert for and because of their previous conversation, the lord was entirely too willing to make merry now, on her expense more than anything. If he was worrying so much about her, might as well laugh because of her, too.

"I am sure, a woman so beautiful would attract and retain anyone's attention," Sakuma said in the end, when he noticed Tokio take all sorts of shades.

"There, you attracted the attention of one man already my dear," Matsudaira boasted as he smacked Sakuma on the back who, with every hit that found its target became more and more rigid, until he was barely non-functional.

"How fortunate; he, too likes to read," Saitou informed "a trait he inherited by his father. Though, sadly, that's all he inherited."

"Stop teasing him, both of you," Tokio commanded "he'll stop breathing soon. Not all people are used to such uncouth behaviour."

"You wound me, Tokio," Matsudaira faux-lamented.

"The fact you are isn't any better, though."

She blew air out of her nose at the jab, looking superior. "I have to deal with the lot of you somehow."

"Excuses."

She clicked her tongue in distaste.

"You have been growing quite lippy lately," the lord mused out loud, "maybe Saitou-san is on to something."

"If Saitou-san wants to go back to his assignment as soon as possible, he better take his colleague and leave before we ask them to serve as guards on this outing."

The groan was swallowed expertly and the bow came a second later. "My lord, Tokio-san, it was nice seeing you. We bid you goodbye; have a nice walk."

"Goodbye my lord, my lady," Sakuma added hastily and followed after the retreating Saitou.

"Bye now," she saluted as they exited, a small smirk on her lips to match his previous. "We, too are ready my lord; that was what I came to announce."

The lord looked pensive when she turned back to him, but certainly amused. "You've figured him out, haven't you?"

"How difficult can it be? I have spent enough time with him...most of them, in fact, but him more than the rest."

"How interesting."

She knew not why that made her feel a small shiver crawl up her spine. "Not really...let us go now."

On the other end of things, Sakuma was a ball of anxiety, anticipation and unanswered questions. "You certainly are on good terms with his lordship! Look how casual he was with you. And to think he asked you about such a thing, how amazing. Have you known him long? Tokio-sama, too? I had heard she was beautiful and kind by the rest, but I had no idea it was to such a degree. She even stepped in when she saw I was overwhelmed, how noble and polite."

And although Saitou answered all of his questions or remarks with maturity and responsibility, in the end he had to shake his head. Another one joins the ranks of Tokio's admirers. No wonder that woman had her head in the clouds and an ego to rival his. Hopefully, that wouldn't keep her from denying his theory true.

The next week went well, against all odds, with no murders of any distinguished doctors. The fact that shishi activity was rather...muted, was a good thing. Patrols were easier than expected, too, not that casual happenings weren't a thing, but at least they were less bloody. As far as the Shinsengumi was concerned anyhow. Considering the lord's departure had remained a close-kept secret, this wasn't the calm before the storm either. Heh, he wanted to believe the patriots were planning to put everything in motion the week they would be gone and render their plans useless.

Which departure, came sooner than anyone realised. What with their duties, the research and the patrols, adding to the fact Saitou was still working as Hijikata's stand in, when Matsudaira-sama appeared at their doorstep with the carriage, they were actually unprepared. It was fortunate their HQ was located on the way to Edo otherwise they'd have stood up his highness.

"Forgive us, Tokio-san, Matsudaira-sama," were the first words out of Hijikata's mouth "I know it is unacceptable for a lady to wait for the men to get ready."

"My, my, you are in a good mood vice-commander," the lady commented, smile hiding behind her sleeve, as Matsudaira laughed.

"I don't see why not. We are embarking on a short trip for such a happy reason of a person we all appreciate."

"Well, her brother's, but still, happy occasion indeed," Matsudaira corrected and all saw the hand of another woman smack him on the arm. "Ah, right, I forget; my dear Toshihime will be joining us on our trip."

"Your ladyships, my lord," Saitou finally spoke, a slight inclination of the head following suit.

But the lord suddenly seemed to look at him curious, yearning. "Your character is one I envy, I must confess; you have to teach me how to stay unaffected in the presence of such beautiful women."

"No!" His wife desperation covered the snickers the lord caused. "That is your one redeeming quality," she absolutely stated "and I won't have it go away."

"Let's just go," Tokio signaled and said to everyone, rolling her eyes, as the lord and Toshihime started arguing prompted by that one thing, as they were used to do. The guards and the two Shinsengumi men urged the horses on, giving the ok to the driver of the carriage to start, too.

The trip to Edo was very uneventful; in fact, nothing happened, at all. No one was threatened, no one attacked, no one even came close. The only remotely dangerous thing to happen were a pack of wild animals neared the carriage as they were taking a break, but even those were driven away with simple sticks and throwing them some food. It was so boring and well paced, Hijikata came to an important discovery: for all their complaining, grand declarations and Tokio's crying and blaming Hijikata for everything, they hadn't really stopped seeing each other.

During one particularly long break, his lordship, in the company of his wife, decided to take a small walk around the lake they stopped next to, to stretch their legs a bit. He asked the two Shinsengumi men to stay back with Tokio, seeing he'd take all five of his guards. The driver had taken to sleeping, exhausted by the ride so far and the three of them were left alone to awkwardly stare at one another.

Well, not exactly; the stares became awkward when they were directed at him. Tokio was almost asking something of him when their eyes met, only to think better in the end and look away. Every ten damn seconds. Saitou was cool, as he always was about things, but there was an unpleasant buzzing all around him, as if waiting for something to happen that never did.

Tokio went to the bank, kneeling, drawing water for everyone's canteen; Saitou helped her carry them once they were full, spare her the multiple trips; Hijikata was watching them go idly, not quite figuring out what felt wrong with the picture, until she said: "I need some plum leaves."

"Plum leaves?" Hijikata repeated incredulous, sharing a common look with Saitou. "What for?"

"I am making a perfume for the bride and it's the only ingredient missing! And I am pretty positive I saw at least one plum tree down there."

Hijikata rolled his eyes. "And you want us to get it for you, is it?"

"I'd rather I got it myself, actually; I'll know the right ones only if I see them—I want all to be the same size, too."

"Is it too far away?"

"No."

"Then go with Saitou; I'll keep an eye on the horses and the driver."

"Alright!"

She had a satchel on her person, that seemed to contain something made of glass, but she was way too happy with the developments to his liking. Saitou didn't even complain once, too. Usually he'd have shown some resistance...this didn't bode too well for the vice-commander. When she took the route opposite to where the lord went, he was convinced he had to do something about this. And for the second time in his life, he decided he'd follow one of his subordinates around to find out what was really going on.

Damn leaves and twigs, he had to be really careful not to make any sounds.

"What kind of perfume are you-?" Silence; a smile and a scolding stare were exchanged. "Let go, idiot."

As if she never heard him, she kept walking, both arms linked with his right. "I am making an exquisite mixture of ginger, plump and spices; it has some other ingredients in there, too, which I shall not reveal, which make it the perfect wedding gift."

"It's only a perfume..."

"Special perfume." He gave her a questioning look; she giggled. "Gifts of women to other women should not be discussed with men any further."

"Can she drink this one?"

She laughed. "No," she drawled amused "not if she wants to remain healthy." Then, her eyes widened as a memory resurfaced and started smacking his arm. "Takahiro-sensei drank some of my perfume once!" She nearly collapsed from the laughter it brought back with it and she stopped walking altogether. "I'd left it next to my tonic and they were in identical vials; thank...thank Buddha he only had one sip before realising."

"Did you poison the poor man?"

"No, no, he was alright; he did puke all over my dresser though."

Saitou gave her a look. "That happened inside your room?" She nodded. "Why was he inside your room?"

"Because I am a late riser," she exclaimed exhausted, eyes rolling "and he had come to wake me for a lesson."

"I don't like it. – He ignored her exasperated "You don't like anything," and went on. – Does that still happen?"

"I no longer need lessons, so no." He blew air out of his nose in an approving way; she clicked her tongue. "He's old enough to be my father, you know."

"You still poured his drink."

"That...was for information," she defended herself and she actually had to press herself to remember what he meant "an eon ago—how do you even remember that?" His look was all business. "It was information for your benefit, too."

"All I know is you've done it twice so far, and neither time was for me."

"You're insufferable." She smacked his arm again. He wasn't swayed. "Are you really complaining about it?" He nodded affirmatively. Her chuckle was disbelieving. "You do realise I performed an entire tea ceremony just for you, yes?"

"Not the same."

She had to laugh at his stubbornness, as she came to a halt in front of the tree she was searching for; without hesitation, she climbed on her tip toes and planted fleeting a kiss on his lips. "You are infuriating," she cooed, words not matching her tone "but fine, I promise to do the same for you, whenever I get the chance."

She had already looked away, bent low to inspect the fallen leaves; she didn't want the crunchy ones, but some that still retained their softness. He watched her gather what she needed with a soft smile. "Won't be any time soon though," he murmured.

"Don t jinx it," she snapped without even looking up at him. "And if you really think so, why make me promise?"

"I'm collecting favours for later."

She giggled in her hand. "You want to be pampered, is that it?"

"Not at all," was his not-so-believable reply and she couldn't help but look up at him. She had to turn around to do so, but she didn't mind. She just looked at him for a long time, hand on her cheek, balanced on her knee. He tilted his head in question.

"No matter what happens, I want you to know I'll never regret meeting you."

She made the effort to stand and he immediately offered his help, pulling her up and close to him. She put her forehead on his chest; it was serene and content, like everything made sense. Then she opened her mouth to say something else, but it was too quiet for Hijikata to catch; he only watched her lips move and curl into a grin, modest but certain. He didn't know what was said, but he could guess it was something incredibly sappy or heartfelt as Saitou's eyes suddenly focused on those same lips and his hand came around her face.

"I will make it so that you won't have to," he spoke back absolutely "that I promise."

It was about time Hijikata took his leave then, in no mood to watch people kiss in idyllic scenery, but in every mood to contemplate on the developments and what that meant for Saitou or the unit. Or himself. It would not have real consequences on the unit at this point, Hijikata was fairly certain, so long as it was presented right, in case they were discovered. Saitou could still very well be killed for it, or exiled, but the lord favours him too much for that now. Still, to everyone's probable surprise if this got out, both people harboured intense, real feelings for one another. He could not fathom Saitou risking so much for passing amusement. And Tokio...

She was the type of woman men went to war for.

There, he said it; the one good thing he had to say about her, even if it was several good things bundled into one—a woman like what he called her means she's loyal, trustworthy and kind. If you had her waiting home for you, you had ten more reasons to come back alive with your honour intact, to make her proud to call you hers. With the added benefit of being a skilled healer, then what's there not to want to go back to—as hurt as you were, she'd put you back together, for the most part.

Hijikata did not blame Saitou; she'd be a great bride for any man. He only hoped the problem of their birthrights and positions could be somehow overlooked. But how sneaky; just when he thought they were finally over one another, no crying from Tokio as of late, it was all because, in fact, they were closer than ever. To actually kiss one another so casually, how shameless. Hm...now Hijikata wanted to make fun of them.

It was too bad he had no opportunity for the rest of their trip.

.

.

"I am so excited to see you again!"

The moment Ayame was left alone with the youngsters, after the formalities were dispensed from both her parents and brother, she all but grabbed their hands and squeezed, bursting at the seams! She physically dragged them away and towards the garden of their considerably smaller than Matsudaira's, but still relatively big house. Inside was crazy, this being the final day before the wedding ceremony, so they didn't even venture close. She sat both at a wooden bench and had the audacity to position herself right between them, still grabbing both.

"Today you'll be resting from your journey; tomorrow is the grand event. I really hope you brought pretty clothes, Tokio-san, because the bride really outdid herself with her wedding kimono...and, not one to be too easily overshadowed, went above and beyond with mine!"

"You had a perfectly fine kimono that you just had made for Yami's wedding," Saitou all shook her from the sheer annoyance "wear that."

"But you, and Matsudaira-sama have already seen it."

"So?"

She gave him a look equivalent to him saying the most ignorant thing in the world; Tokio simply shook her head amused. "Go ahead and rejoin your brother's side," she urged instead "we'll be fine. Only, if you could, please point me towards the nearest hot springs."

"It's one hour away from here, but it should pose no issue getting there...but you'll have to do the trip without Hajime."

Both Saitou and Tokio gave her a look. "But he's one of my guards."

"Then take another one—Hijikata-san for example. Hajime won't be able to attend to you; he needs to meet some of our wedding guests."

"What? He needs to and not Matsudaira-sama and I?"

Ayame's expression warned her that she knew something Tokio didn't. "Yes."

"Why?"

"Because they are special wedding guests."

The more Tokio's indignation grew, the more muted Ayame's reactions were. Only that satisfaction remained and Tokio had no idea why and it drove her crazy. "And who might they be?"

"...my family," Saitou concluded, actually taken aback "isn't it?"

Tokio stopped protesting abruptly, waiting for Ayame's answer; when it came in the form of a very slow, self-gratifying nod, Tokio became deep red. She immediately averted her eyes and bowed to the other woman. "Forgive me, I spoke too soon..."

"That's alright," Ayame assured.

"Thank you, Ayame," Saitou bowed slightly, too "it means a lot to me. I haven't seen them for a very long time." A nostalgic smile appeared. "Who's gonna be there?"

"All of them." He seemed impressed; Tokio felt conflicted between being happy for him and annoyed by her rival. "I did do my best, after all."

"That's...thank you, again."

When the peace and quiet got too stifling for Tokio, she had to ask the one thing she's been dying to. "Can I come, too?"

"I'm afraid not," Ayame shot her down, deflating her completely "who are you supposed to be in this scenario? I am the groom's sister who's welcoming them and thanking them for accepting our invitation; Hajime is coming as the person who is going to escort me to said wedding, so it makes sense. You?"

Tokio turned red again but for a completely different reason. "What—hey! You aren't going together again!"

"But if we don't, Hajime—"

"—can't see his family," Tokio only just realised and turned to glare at her. "I understand." A begrudging acceptance was sighed from her part, forcing herself to stand. "I am going to take my leave now, please lend me one of the servants to explain to Hijikata-sama where these hot springs are so I can go and leave you two alone..."

She was obvious trying to sound magnanimous but it simply came out clipped; Ayame's a little too satisfied grin made her vein pop. "You are so nice, Tokio-san," she had the audacity to comment then and every hair on her person stood straight from the sheer anger.

"In return for my kindness, please have a lot of fun today," Tokio turned to Hajime and this once she did manage a convincing smile "I hope it goes well; please tell me all about it."

With a final bow, she left them. In twenty minutes flat, she was already heading to the hot springs, with, surprisingly, Hijikata-sama as her only guard as Toshihime-sama decided to sit this one out and remain with her husband for the necessary greetings. That in itself was very fishy, for Hijikata didn't even protest to the appointment, when suggested to him and was almost first to do the same to Matsudaira-sama who was more than happy to oblige him, especially after he learnt Saitou was indisposed and why.

Tokio wasn't as nice as Ayame implied though, for she all but begged the lord and his wife to tag along with them—they were very important guests, anyone's family would be thrilled to meet them. Matsudaira, she further claimed, was basically his employer and it would be nice for his family to see how trustworthy he was, but Toshihime all but patted her head sympathetically and advised her to leave the subject alone. After all, she'd said, no matter how curious they too were to meet the people who raised him, this was a family affair. The only reason Ayame was there was because otherwise the meeting wouldn't be possible; they had no right.

And just like that, Tokio left for the hot springs in the worst of moods. She shouldn't be sulking, she knew. Something wonderful happened to Hajime. But he'd be with Ayame all that time damn it! And if that wasn't enough, she basically forced her to give up on going to the wedding with him for the same reason. She was very sneaky, Tokio had to give her credit. And even if there was no chance she'd lose to Ayame, as she already had Hajime's affections, she still felt jealous he would be spending so much time with his childhood friend.

"How much your highness sighs," Hijikata teased, as they were walking the path towards the onsen "one would think you have problems of the romantic nature." Her glare was instant; it actually elicited a small laugh from him. "Maybe it has something to do with Ayame-san cozing up with Saitou and his family?"

"Hijikata-sama!" Her admonishment was both scandalised and angry. "Please don't speak of such things out loud..."

"It's just the two of us."

"You never know."

"Then maybe apply that to all facets of this matter and don't kiss with the man who risks his life just by looking at you when other people could be watching." Her utter bafflement was deemed satisfactory. "When you were collecting your plums." She became too red. "When were you planning on telling me?"

"A, after the wedding..."

"Which we shall be attending together?"

She nodded, finally some humour returning to her. "And I'd love to see his face, once Hajime realises."

"I bet as sour as yours when you realised he'd have to go with Ayame." Alright, he won; she was sad again. "Tokio, this is a dangerous game you're playing. If anyone does see you, he's dead."

"I would never allow that to happen; I am not an idiot."

"Remember why that servant woman had it in for you?"

She waved him away. "Hajime won't get me pregnant..."

"But you and the woman her son fell in love with share a significant trait, doen't you?"

"Hijikata-sama, I want you to listen to me very well and believe every word that comes out of my mouth as true: I would never allow Hajime to be hurt because of me. If I had to give up my family name because someone glanced us holding hands, I'd gladly do it. I don't care."

"What if he dies?"

"I'd rather not think of such outcomes, but even then, I could easily make a living as someone's physician. I am capable, Hijikata-sama, and I am smart. And I do not wish to make this public and create trouble but even if that happens, I will deal with it."

"...I don't like this."

"What's there not to like? I bring good luck to people!" He remained silent. "Other than your fear of my affections ending his life, do you have any objections to us being together?" His eyes slid to her. "I bring information and riches to you, every single time I get involved. You can't have any other complaints."

"One of my strongest men, if not the strongest, might be booted off the unit because of you; I lose strength. And I lose a valuable member because lately, he does more than just patrol."

"But even you have to admit, despite our complicated relationship, I don't take him away from his duties, nor does he under-perform. Your worries, although founded in reason, are excessive. Please, be kinder, Hijikata-sama. And if you still don't feel like being the bigger person, then consider this as one favour less you owe me."

"...fair enough, Tokio-san." He regarded her for a long time. "I still don't know how you two came about, to be honest," he admitted then, surprising her "but somehow you did, right under my nose. Even after I warned you about it...but then again, he was still married then. I should have known when he told me his informer helped him get that divorce and it turned out to be you."

"In my defense, I had no ulterior motives when I did that; just tried to pay him back for all he did with Asahi."

"Ah, the late fiance." She nodded, smiling. "If I knew he had feelings for you when he found out Asahi had died, I would honestly be concerned whether he did it or not, with Okita's help."

Without warning, a slap on the shoulder came his way and he was shocked to receive it. "Shame on you for speaking like that about your subordinates. They would never. And our feelings for each other were nearly as deep back then. Now, if it's alright with you, too, I would like to go change and enter the hot springs."

Still a little numb she dared to do such a thing, kind of awed he joined the exclusive party of "being smacked by the lady Tokio" and perplexed as to what did he do to "earn" the privilege, he let her go about her business. From this very moment in time and forward, he was complicit in their affair; he knew and said nothing; she admitted it to him and he did not report them. He just passed the point of no return, with no pleas or tearful confessions from her part, only demands.

He sighed.

Hijikata was going soft, there was no other explanation for it; especially when the thought "maybe these two could make it, after all, and I worry over nothing, in the end" was born in his mind. How ridiculous. But he would have the last word no matter what, so just as he heard her enter the pool, he snapped "just beware of Matsudaira-sama catching wind of it. Lately he's been sniffing around Saitou and his personal life a little too much.

.

.

The wedding was an infuriating affair.

Ayame was being a little too self-indulgent with the way she paraded Hajime around all their old friends and his own family. Her hands would wander from times to times, just to make them look more intimate than they really were. Hajime was being very respectful about it, correcting her stance, untangling himself, nodding and conversing when appropriate. He was...very formal overall and she would have been otherwise proud of him but Ayame truly made her whole nervous system go into overdrive.

"Tokio-san, stop that; I heard at least four people stating they thought you had a personality issue."

Tokio turned to the man beside her with surprise, momentarily wiping all other expression off of her face; he gave her a meaningful look instead and imperceptibly nodded towards the groom's sister. "Seems your discontent has been showing in all the wrong ways; someone said, it is impossible to be this friendly when you talk to her and so scary when you look at her." He paused, to relish her shock. "One defended you, said you only look like that from afar." A sardonic grin made an appearance. "I assured them you were just upset you couldn't get your present to the bride and groom in time yesterday."

"Don't remind me," she pleaded "I still cannot get over the fact I was late to present them my perfume because I overstayed at the hot springs; Matsudaira was laughing, too. To think I had to steal away their time before the ceremony today, how shameful..." A strangled laugh escaped her. "At least she was gracious enough to put some on, to make me feel better." But then a sly smile made an appearance. "She'll thank me tomorrow for it, if she uses it as I instructed."

Hijikata didn't appreciate that. "What did you put into it?"

"Nothing a man like you should know or inquire about."

"That sounds like an interesting perfume, if I may say so," a female voice none of them ever heard before commented, causing both to turn back and look at a relatively tall woman with black hair...and almost that same hue of amber as Hajime's for eyes. Her lips had curled into a smirk and her eyes were calculating. Even without the similarities in colour, both would have guessed this was Yamaguchi Katsu, no, Soma Katsu as of four years ago, Saitou's older sister. Not only their behaviour was quite similar, but the way they held themselves, as well as the colour palette of their clothes.

They all bowed to one another, but Hijikata quickly took his leave once the introductions were over, somehow having a bad feeling about being stuck in the same conversation with these two. "So, tell me Tokio-san, is it true?" Tokio seemed confused. "Ayame told me about your experiences in Kyoto...all of them."

Tokio's cheeks took that natural, distinctive shade of shame of hers that was unique to her: too pronounced and too red. Katsu was pleased. "So, you are Ayame-chan's rival, huh? Interesting." She did nothing but nod, fearing her voice would betray more about her mental state. "If I'm being entirely honest, I don't like you."

Ouch, but she still slid her eyes to Katsu in a are-you-kidding-me glare.

"Well, you are right; I don't know you enough to say I don't like you, but I certainly prefer Ayame-chan to you."

"A stranger," Tokio completed her speech, because the way she spoke that last word, made it feel like something was missing. And she was right, because Katsu nodded affirmatively. "Well, if I'm being entirely honest myself, I don't care." Katsu let out a disbelieving snort, but Tokio simply shrugged. "Objectively, it makes perfect sense for you to choose her over me; and I'm many things, but illogical isn't one of them. So, yes, I understand; but I don't care for one reason and one reason alone: the true choice lies with Hajime." Tokio finally gave a true, teasing smile. "And I doubt you can influence him enough to change his mind. I mean, I've known him for less than two years, yet even I can tell once his mind is made, there's no changing it."

The scandalised shock turned into a small snort of disbelieving laughter and Katsu grabbed her by the hand and dragged her even further away. "Change his mind? Are you insinuating my brother has already made you an offer of marriage!?"

"What, oh, haha, no, heavens no; we are too far removed as far as social class is concerned and I doubt my father would even entertain the thought of giving me to someone earning less than he himself does; besides, it is too early for either of us to get married—he has his duties to the unit, I have my duties to my lord and lady, but...our hearts are in the right place."

Katsu had found her scoop! Inflated chest and heart, she started giggling like a young girl. "Are you...are you together informally now?"

"Um...you could say that, I suppose. But other than meet each other in passing on a street or talk to each other there's not much else we can do."

"And he still prefers that to getting married?" She chuckled, disbelief still palpable. "If I didn't know their relationship, I'd say something soured in my brother or that Ayame did something to him. Seeing I know neither of that is true...your lips must taste of the sweetest sake!"

Both women tried not to break out in laughter coloured in all kinds of moods, as they still held on to one another, almost bending in half to stop themselves. "Honestly, Hajime isn't a man who so easily warms up to people; in the span of a humble year and a half you managed to earn his loyalty to that degree...you must be scary. And dependable."

"I wouldn't call myself scary, disregarding that everyone seems to think that of me today."

"That's because you've been sending glares of unrivaled potency to the groom's sister and her date."

"Have they really noticed?"

Katsu nodded morosely. "Even your Matsudaira-sama did, asked his wife about it. Poor woman must know something about you two because she struggled to find a proper excuse; and she didn't. Her excuse was unsatisfactory and I watched the lord narrow his eyes an alarming amount."

"Oh no."

"I'm afraid so..."

"Hijikata-sama will kill me; Hajime, too."

"Ah, right; the beautiful man you came here with." She giggled in her sleeve again. "I have heard nothing but the nicest things from all the women here, in relation to him, married or unmarried."

"He has that effect on women," Tokio assured her, "you should have seen him at the other wedding. All proper ladies swooned."

"But you do make a beautiful couple; you are very...eye-catching, too, if I may, Tokio-san." A pause. "Can I call you Tokio-chan? If what you are saying is true, us two are going to be exchanging a lot of words and letters in the future."

"I don't see why not," she ascended immediately, feeling her ego rise with those words. "And I promise to call you Katsu-nee-san even after you turn forty."

"Oh my, you have long-term plans...I like you, Tokio-chan. I like you after all. You have spirit; that is never a bad thing."

"I like your straight-forward nature, too, Katsu-san." A shared moment of sizing each other up later, they both nodded and let the other go. "Let this be the beginning of a happy friendship."

"Indeed; and if you two ever make it official or he accidentally knocks you up, I'll personally introduce you to the rest of the family."

"Katsu-san!"

The woman laughed unreserved at Tokio's shame and prudence. "I can see why he would like to talk with you; your blush is adorable and so easy to cause. Bye, Tokio-chan; I pray we shall meet properly in the future. Oh, and," she leaned a little closer "make that good-for-nothing brother of mine drop a line or two occasionally; mother almost died of a broken heart when he was lost to us."

"I promise I'll try."

"And if that doesn't work, you do."

"That I most certainly will."

"By the way, I can see my brother sending me signals to leave you alone so he can come talk to you, too, so I shall be going. But I warn you; brother knows about you two, as well."

"Ayame told him, too?"

"Ah no; that was Hajime." Tokio stared. "Hiroaki is...very well-respected in the family and Hajime is no exception. He was the only one he ever listened to, actually; not even father could inspire such confidence. I don't know why, but Hajime would listen to him. So, when Hiroaki demanded the reason Hajime said no to such a nice match – we all hated Yaso and knew she was forced upon him – he blurted out the truth." She chuckled again. "I had never seen either of my brothers so uncomfortable. So, now, Hiroaki wants to speak to you, assess your character and compatibility with his little brother. He is quite protective, you see; Hajime takes it from him."

"Oh dear," Tokio breathlessly lamented and only felt worse when Katsu nodded as if she was about to die. "How do I make a good impression?"

"Do not lie about anything; he can see right through it. And don't try to downplay or overplay yourself. Just answer his questions truthfully."

"I shall."

"Perfect; I'm going; be prepared. Good luck, Tokio-chan."

The man seen approaching as Katsu was leaving, bore no resemblance to either siblings; he was not particularly tall and his hair was a tone lighter. His skin was paler and his eyes almost gray. He was a handsome man, with quite the presence, the one thing all siblings shared. And, currently, he was walking towards her with purpose in his step. Great. She could feel her heart beat faster already. Ugh, why was it that her family had taken to Hajime so easily but she had to go through loops just to appear satisfactory to them?

"So you are the woman my brother has chosen." She inclined her head. "Takagi Tokio." She nodded. "Tell me Takagi Tokio, who are you?"

"...that is way too broad. What do you want me to say?"

"Who are you? What information do you think are the most important for someone to understand what kind of a person you are."

"I see...I am the oldest of four; my sisters are the most amazing yet infuriating creatures I know. My mother is a calm, reasonable woman with extreme patience while my father is an Aizu merchant, good friend of Matsudaira-sama, who has allowed me to reside in his home at Kyoto for the past five years. There, I study medicine and became the disciple of one of the most skilled doctors of the land, Takahiro-sensei. I like my craft and I am very good at it. I practice it almost every day; Teruhime-sama, Toshihime-sama's sister who is Matsudaira-sama's wife is my lady, who happens to be a little frail; that is how I started training. The only reason I am here now is because the weather still holds and she won't be needing my help for some time. Last but not least, I have a dog named Hachiro whom I take on frequent walks and I miss terribly right now, for I wasn't allowed to take him with me. But that's nonsense; he was still a puppy two months ago. He's just a little large. "

The look he had fixed upon her was formidable; it made her nervous, feel like she had something to prove and angry she felt like she had something to prove all at the same time. He shared that unmistakable judgmental stare his brother did, as well as the air of always being right. The pressure was too real to her, even if she purposefully did not give a single sign of distress.

"...you are an accomplished person, Tokio-san; that is impressive. The path of a healer is respectable and truly necessary, too. How commendable of you. Considering you talked about it to such a length, I can only assume practicing it fulfills you." She nodded. "But, in my experience, this path is a solitary one; men I know who truly devote themselves to their craft and the sick have little time for anything else. And that is men; women who want to do the same face an even bigger issue, should they ever hope to have a family."

He wasn't wrong; and he could tell what he said hit a nerve because she swallowed as discreetly as she could, looking away for a second. "On one hand, you like caring for people and know how to do it properly; on the other, you like it a little too much and it leaves no room for anything else. You are nurturing, having a dog and taking good care of it proves that much; but that means even more of your time gets eaten away. Of course, you are rich and are used to having servants around but that won't be the case if, you know, so, you'll be at a great loss; you'll have to leave some people behind. But you are well-bred and would never leave your husband behind, thus, your patients would suffer...but then, so would your aspirations/ And sometimes that turns into resentment, quite fast."

Tokio blinked by the sheer speed this man in front of her found all of her insecurities, hopes and fears and laid them out in the open right between them, serving as a dangling sword, ready to strike. She begged, in her mind, begged for him to stop there and leave the conversation unfinished. It wouldn't be as final...but no such luck.

"Thus," he spoke and her heart shattered in a million pieces "I conclude, although well-suited for altruistic causes and a great addition to any lords household, you'd be a poor choice for a wife. Especially to a man such as my brother. I'll have to make my sentiments known, my lady, and I believe you are unsuitable to serve as the wife of a warrior."

Tokio would not be beaten though. She snorted derisively. "If you think being the wife of a warrior is ill-suited for me, then ask your brother, or even Hijikata-sama, who my number one patients are. If it weren't for me, your brother might have died twice already. And that's just the two instances he was poisoned. Add to that all the times he's been stabbed, slashed or generally abused by swords, daggers and arrows in general and that number goes way up."

She crossed her arms, looking away as superior as she ever had. "Also, you are incredibly naive if you believe, even for a moment, a woman's capabilities are on par with any man. We can do twice, thrice the tasks you can, at any given moment, and do them just as well. Where men are given a free pass if they under-perform or miss an event, women aren't. Allowances are made for men's mediocrity while women are universally forced to be at least impeccable, for no other reason than a fair comparison would make you look far less accomplished than us and your overinflated egos would not handle the stress. Thus, I conclude, to judge my skills based on a man, is ridiculous. You judge me unfairly and I shall not stand for it."

Hiroaki was not going to lie; he was mildly scared of her. When she turned her eyes to him, in that deadly narrow slit, he almost took a step back by the force of her anger, it was almost a real, physical entity. And the way her eyes took in every little detail of his reactions and only adjusted her tone to cause more fear, was actually impressive. He was impressed.

"Besides, I find it poor taste to speak of weddings when your brother is prohibited from expressing any sort of interest in me on the first place, lest he loses his position at the very least, his head at worst."

He took a moment to collect himself. "Then you have no long-term plans, Tokio-san? Where do you see yourself in five years?"

"I can't see myself in five months from now, not years. I know what I want but whether I get it or not is, to start with, completely out of my hand, as well as incredibly difficult, considering there's a war going on; one your own brother participates in actively every single day. I worry so much about if he comes back alive or not, every single day, so focused I am on day-to-day, I cannot possibly consider the future. I can hope; dream; imagine; but not see. Not all of us have that luxury, Hiroaki-san."

"...I see." He just stood there, looking at her. Her determination to have the upper hand as well as be deemed worthy was astounding. A callous man would call her headstrong. "What if you weren't the lord's protege and a rich man's daughter? Would you marry him then?"

"I think Hajime put it best; my position is not the problem. The fact he holds no position is. If he was at least someone like your father, it wouldn't be too much of a problem—especially since the shogun himself knows his name and thinks his services were decisive in many disputes. So, personally, I simply wait for the end of this war. Should it end in our favour and we're both still alive, oh, it'd be so easy; heroes of war always get what they want. How much of a far-fetched notion would it be for him to ask for a wife and a home in return for his services? And my father likes him; if he knew of my own feelings for him, he'd gladly hand me over to him." She shrugged. "If we lose on the other hand...well, we have other things to worry about than marriages and the like. So, like I said, if this war isn't over, nothing is decided."

"I changed my mind, Tokio-san," he drawled, pensive. "Whether I agree with some of your statements or not, doesn't matter; I think I can finally see what drew my brother to you and I find it satisfactory. Although I am still not endorsing you, I shall not speak against you, if it ever comes up. Should I say, I would even go to the trouble of saying your name to my parents."

She chuckled, finally shoulders lax. "Do forgive me Hiroaki-san, but my sister already promised to introduce me to the family, should that ever happen."

He was taken aback. "Katsu did?" She nodded. "When she was just here?"

"Indeed; apparently, she liked me. I think she'd still prefers Ayame-san, but at least now she would still be happy if she got stuck with me."

"That's...amazing. You know what, I changed my mind. If I ever have to speak about you, I'll do in a positive way. Hope I do get to see you again, Tokio-san."

After a small bow, Hiroaki was on his way. Three seconds later, Hijikata returned, looking as alarmed as he was amused.

"I demand to know what was discussed between you."

"I would like to know the same thing," Hajime finally made an appearance. Ayame was still on his arm, curious but unaffected, unlike Saitou.

Her smile became teasing. "It's a wedding; we spoke of similar things: matchmaking, proper customs, compatibility...your brother was a little intimidating at first, but we found common ground."

"And here I thought, he was the one who left mildly shocked and slightly scared," Saitou teased right back.

"...I said, we found common ground, didn't I?"

She said it like the cat who ate the canary; Ayame didn't appreciate it, but the men simply shook their heads. "And if you're wondering what Katsu-san and I talked about, then be informed men shouldn't ask what women say between themselves; ne, Ayame-chan?" A chuckle later, not even really waiting for an answer, she took the vice commander by the arm, too, purposefully making a big deal out of it, and bowed to the other couple. "For now, let us move about the room, Hijikata-sama. We still haven't talked to the wedding couple, after all."

Saitou's glare followed after her, as she retreated with her head held high.

.

.

.

Next day, they departed early in the morning, per planned. The wedding couple were the ones to see them off, right at the gates. After thanking them profusely for their attendance and how honoured they were the Aizu-han and protector of Kyoto decided they were worthy enough to take him away from his duties even for four days. Then, the bride took Tokio to the side and all but hugged her. Then whispered a couple of words in her ear, both women giggled and Tokio joined the lord and the lady in the carriage, while the other two got on their horses and altogether, they rode off.

The trip back was uneventful...save Saitou's behaviour for half their trip. He had been honestly annoyed with her, how shamelessly she was clinging onto Hijikata and, what's worse, all of that just to spite him for something that not only was it not his fault, but she herself had agreed he needed to do. He really wouldn't talk to her and the vice-commander's slightly accomplished smirk only helped to further his anger. And each and every time they had a break, he'd be strangely withdrawn.

So pronounced it was, even Matsudaira noticed his sour mood and asked him about it. He waved the man away, naturally, how could he explain? But to think even he spotted it, it must have been too much, so he tried to contain it, even a little.

It was on one of these breaks Tokio finally confronted him. She did it slyly, as always; there was no giving him a choice to deny her the opportunity otherwise he was capable of being upset with her for over a week! She waited until the lord had taken the guards and his wife for a walk that she suggested she should pick some herbs.

"I'm not accompanying you; take Saitou," Hijikata shrewdly saw through her plan and decided to offer a hand. He did enjoy watching his man suffer, it was the sadist in him, but he didn't fail to remember they were dangerously close to home and in a day or two, he'd have to patrol. Better do it in the best emotional state possible.

Saitou too saw through it, but decided it was high time they talked about it, so he accepted with just a groan as a protest.

"Are you still angry with me, Hajime?"

It'd been almost an hour she'd been bent over some meadow, deciding which buds were appropriate for her concoctions; she was still not looking at him, as she spoke. But her voice held no sign of remorse or sadness. In fact, she was struggling not to smile too widely and he takes offense.

"Yes."

She chuckled; he felt his temper rise a fraction. "Why?" He said nothing; she turned back to look at him only to find him glaring. "Let me guess," she stood, patting her kimono down for any pollen or dust "you were jealous."

"That's not the only reason." He said it evenly and that surprised her. "I can't be seen in public with you lest your reputation suffers, but you hold him so casually. I know it doesn't mean anything for either of you, but the effortlessness incenses me. Also, you were punishing me for something that wasn't my fault; I don't appreciate that."

"Forgive me, Hajime," she said through a smile and a muffled chuckle as she walked to him "I too was jealous; and it is not a feeling I am familiar with." She took his hands in hers and held them tightly. "I act irregularly because of it."

His glare was scolding. "I don't care for other women."

"I know; I don't care for other men, as well, but watching her parading you around stung a little, so I acted on a mean whim."

"Next time, don't."

"I promise."

He kissed her hands and she smiled; a hug followed and she returned it as well as she could, despite their height difference and the fact he was enveloping her in every sense of the word. "And I promise, next time you talk to my family, I'll be the one to introduce you."

"Ah," she protested through a giggle, still pressed against him "that duty is already taken; your sister offered first. But how alike all you siblings are, your brother said the same thing."

His eyebrow raised and pulled her a little away just to stare at her properly. "My brother? Are you quite certain?"

Her smile transitioned into a perfect smirk. "You heard well."

He shook his head, disappointed. "What do you do to people? It was the night right before you met him that he swore to never approve of you. What did you say to him?"

"Oh, just," she shrugged "gave him a piece of my mind."

"Did you threaten him?"

"No such thing," she adamantly refused, smacking his chest.

"You're unbelievable," was all he said, deciding it was high time they went back to their carriage. She trotted after him happily, clinging onto his hand for the first five minutes, humming a pleasant tune. She didn't look up to see it, but there was a complacent smile on Hajime's face.

"My lord, did you find them?"

The driver watched Matsudaira-sama emerge from the tall grass alone, looking pensive; Hijikata was helping the lady with some errand and he was bound to return in five minutes with her. Seeing Tokio and Hajime were the only ones unaccounted for, he decided nothing would happen to him if he went to look for them alone.

"Ah, yes! I didn't even have to talk to them; they were already on their way back, so I too turned around and let them go at their own pace. Wouldn't want to hurry my dear Tokio; all that grass in that kimono of hers..."

The driver nodded, failing to notice the cogs turning in the lord's head in unfathomable speed; or his strained smile; or the discreet way he looked over his shoulder, waiting for them to emerge,. Once they did, he gave a little bow and informed them whence Toshihime returned, they were good to go. He watched carefully as Hajime dutifully helped Tokio into the carriage; how delicate his hand was on hers; how firmly she grabbed instead; how touches lingered.

Then, and only after a small smile from her allowed him to do so, he let go of her hand and mounted his horse.

And the lord saw all of it.

.

.

"Ah, nothing like the sweet scent of home," Matsudaira cooed, the moment their carriage entered the city of Kyoto. "We are finally back!"

"My lord, you are a little too attached to this city, if I may," Tokio commented through a giggle in her sleeve "and it has barely been ten years you have moved here."

"There's nothing like Aizu, my dear, don't get me wrong" he assured her, a little offended she would imply what she did "but this city...there's something quite magical about it."

"My husband is full of surprises," Toshihime spoke, eyebrow high "when it doesn't have to do with me, he is full of romance."

"You judge me unfairly, my dear wife," he retorted, smirk easy on his lips "for I always long to hold your hand."

Tokio's unreserved expression, full of love and affection for her surrogate parent figures, made his heart swell; and when he kissed her hand, fleeting but gentle, her cheeks coloured red, but her smile remained in place, looking to the side...as if reminiscing. He didn't fail to notice.

"Tokio dear, do you mind if I asked a personal question?"

"Not at all, my lord. Please, do."

It wasn't meant to be; not a fraction of a second later, Hijikata was heard not only knocking on the wood but speaking, in an alarmed tone. "My lord, one of my messengers is seen approaching us on horseback, we are stopping so he can catch up." The little curtain that blacked out the sun was raised and they couldn't help but notice he was almost pale. "He's the one I tasked with the emergencies only; something must have happened."

They all took pause to those news, but Matsudaira was the first to act: he immediately sobered, expression formal and jumped out of the carriage, banging the door closed. Tokio's head emerged behind the curtain and watched the entire scene unfold:

The messenger was riding at an amazing speed. As soon as he arrived, barely had time to stop the horse, he jumped off of it and took a deep bow, directed towards all three men present. Saitou and Hijikata dismounted as soon as the lord set foot on the ground, too so they were all standing next to each other, awaiting for the man's report.

"Vice-commander Hijikata-sama, my lord Matsudaira-sama, Saitou-san, welcome back; I am sorry I cannot be more courteous, but there's been another murder."

Worst news could not be delivered. Everyone felt their stomach drop to the floor. There was a small pause, trying to absorb the information. Only once the messenger deemed they were prepared did he continue. " He was found gagged, slashed and tortured; it was barely an hour ago and since we knew you were bound to come early today, I was sent to inform you."

"Don't share such details with so many people around," Hijikata ordered, clipped.

"And in the presence of the women in the carriage; they don't need to know." Matsudaira finished, just as stern.

"Forgive me."

Saitou waved him away. "Just tell us who's the victim already."

The man tried to speak, but stopped; he took a good, long look at the lord and then glanced at Tokio's head, who tried to go back in unsuccessfully. His eyes darted to his superiors; Hijikata urged him to speak, no matter what. After a deep breath, he turned to the lord again and with full knowledge of the gravity of the situation shared the identity of the victim.

"The man murdered was none other than Furuichi Takahiro-sensei."

---

A/N: I did it. I killed a character. I'm so sorry. But, no regrets. He needed to die, for the plot to move forward. Also, heeey, Battousai sub-plot. Hurrah! Oh, if anyone's wondering why it isn't New Year's yet, well, that is around late February; they didn't use the Gregorian calendar back then, I do now not to confuse myself or you.

Anywho, that was that! Please let me know what you thought, leave a review on your way out. To old and new readers, I'll be seeing you next chapter.
Love, FAI~!