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Suggested Listening: Harvest of Tea as performed by辰小弦 (Chen Xiaoxian)
This chapter will be censored and the explicit version uploaded into AO3 once it's complete. This notice will change when that occurs.
Of Pride and Honor
Chapter Twenty Nine: Tiny Terror
A tray of food sat untouched. Kagome stared at it for a long moment, contemplating her next course of action. The months following Sanan's return had been met with concern and the revelation that his left arm was beyond repair. No matter how many doctors tended to him or tried to ascertain the damage; their work always ended in the same result: An arm that could not lift above his elbow joint. Her fingers flexed. Not so long ago, that fate could have been hers. A dull ache throbbed in her wrist—reminding her of that fact. Should she speak to him?
"Sanan-san?" She began. The shoji screen was still closed yet she knew that he would be able to hear her through the thin paper. "Is there something else you'd rather have for your meals?" She couldn't start in with the accusations. The man was suffering. The only world he'd known had been turned upside down. He could not fight. He could not lift his sword. He could not be the same as he once was.
Silence was her only answer.
Kagome frowned. Normally he'd at least give her a sharp quip to send her off. Was he asleep? Or merely ignoring the world around him?
She sensed her husband approaching from behind her.
"Kagome," Okita called out. She cocked her head, looking between him and the tray of uneaten food. His eyes narrowed perceptibly at her dilemma. "Leave it for now. I'll try talking to him later."
She took a step then paused at the sound of fabric rustling from within his quarters. Typically she'd try once more yet something stopped her. She glanced back to her husband. His eyes were focused on the shoji screen as well. Something between concern and frustration flickered in his gaze.
"Let's go," He wrapped his arm around her shoulders, tugging her into the warmth of his side. She felt his lips press against her ear, "Sanan's still feeling off so I wouldn't push him too much. Let me deal with him for the moment."
Kagome nodded. She trusted him. Sanan was his friend first and foremost. If anyone could get the man to open up, it'd likely be Okita. Her husband flashed her a wide smile. She felt herself flush. There was something about that smile that always made her go soft. A flicker of masculine pride flickered over his expression. Damn, he'd caught it too.
They made their way back to their quarters. She offered up a smile at her husband. She was worried but that rang doubly true for Okita. Sanan was his friend first and foremost. If he wanted to catch up with him later then she'd respect that.
The man casually led her back inside. They left the door open as they settled comfortably next to one another. Kagome glanced out towards the inner courtyard. Spring was in full bloom. With it came the coral-colored blossoms of the cherry trees. Her lips pulled into a smile.
"They're quite lovely this year, aren't they?"
Okita drew her into his lap, "Indeed they are." His arms wrapped around her waist protectively. She felt him bury his head in the crook of her neck as a sigh worked its way out. When was the last time she had done a Hanami* viewing? Likely long before she fell down the well. Her eyes drifted closed. A light breeze brushed through their quarters. It was nice to finally have some time to relax together like this.
Her hand instinctively curled around the shikon jewel still hanging from her neck. She'd nearly forgotten about its entire existence by now. The power had stemmed, nearly ceasing to a dull thrum once a day. The power pulsed in a way similar to a weakened heartbeat. The remnants coiled over her hand like a string of electricity. She focused. Just a little more.
In her mind she envisioned the whole shikon in its former glory. The shell was a brilliant pink and power pushed outward like a rushing of ocean waves. Then it slowly dimmed and weakened. In order to destroy the jewel it must first lose its power. Until then the souls would never be satisfied.
She clasped both of her hands over it. Her mind cleared as the only thing she could think about was stemming the trickle of remaining power. The stream of electricity around her hand flickered then died away. The Shikon gave three feeble pulses before it went silent. Her ears rang as something glass-like cracked and echoed amongst the silence.
Kagome opened her palms. In the center of her grasp were the shattered jewel shards. A sound of someone breathing next to her ear echoed quietly then fell silent—leaving only the empty shell of the Shikon behind.
She eyed it for a long moment. It would seem as if the souls had expended the last of their power. Had she tried this three years ago the result likely would've been disastrous. That being said, the last whisper of their presence faded—back into the realm beyond for which it should've been.
Okita stared at it for a long moment. His emerald eyes were wide with the shock he felt, "How did…?"
The young woman smiled, "It doesn't matter." She offered the shards to him. "It's over now." He took one look at the broken fragments before laying them on the floor beside them.
"Are you sure? I mean that was your only way back." His brows furrowed with worry.
She turned around in his lap, pressing an index finger to his lips.
"Shh," Kagome smiled. She leaned forward to rub her nose against his affectionately, "There is no 'going back'. There's only going forward."
His eyes darkened with the desire he felt. She tipped her head towards his as their lips met in a fiery kiss. The tip of his tongue brushed against her mouth.
Kagome was certain that Okita would've rolled her to the floor right then if a loud crash hadn't made them both jump. He swiftly pulled her behind him protectively before peering out into the courtyard with caution.
"Grab it!" They heard Yamazaki yelling frantically.
She quirked her brow. What in the world was going on out there?
Kagome stepped beside Okita. She glanced around his shoulder to find a tuft of yellow fur darted down the corridor and around the bend towards the kitchen. Her husband scratched at the back of his head.
"Guess we got another cat roamin' around. Funny, never heard Yamazaki freak out about one like that before." He sighed, tucking his hands into the pockets of his hakamas. "Should we check it out?"
Kagome grinned, "If it's a cat then you know I'm game." After all, she was starting to miss Saito's little kitten. She didn't get to see much of it lately. He'd hidden the calico away as Hijikata increased the amount of room checks they'd had. Although she was given the honor of naming it. Thus 'Mochi' found herself either curled up in Saito's lap or hiding away somewhere safe.
The man's smile became coy, "Then let's go find it."
Okita peered at the chaos left behind. He blinked once then twice before turning to pin Harada with an incredulous look. Was all of this done by one single cat?
"Looks like hell broke loose." He couldn't keep himself from commenting.
The red-head slumped his shoulders, "No kidding. Little beast ran so fast it looked like fire was coming from its feet."
His wife cocked her head to the side, "Fire?"
That got his attention. There was something in the way she spoke that seemed as if she knew more. He shot her a questioning look.
"You should've seen it!" Nagakura whined. He pointed towards the toppled pots and pans on the floor. "It shot in here, ran around the whole place and knocked everything off the counters." He scanned the disaster left behind in a lazy manner. "Thing is tiny as they come but the fire just about burned the whole kitchen!" The other captain waved his arms wildly in the direction of the ashen walls. Smoke still smoldered in thin pillars of black. Kagome peered around them in awe.
"Did you happen to see what it looked like?"
Harada answered that time, "Yeah it had this weird yellow fur and two tails. Strangest thing I'd ever seen."
Nagakura blanched, "Two tails? That's bad luck!" Bright eyes narrowed in displeasure, "You know what they say about cats that got two tails. They called 'em evil back where I'm from."
Okita rolled his eyes, "You're from Edo and the cat ain't evil. This," He gestured around them. "Is because you idiots couldn't catch the damn thing before it freaked out." His grin suddenly turned sharp. "You call yourselves captains yet you couldn't even capture a single cat."
Harada's expression turned dark at the insult, "Oi, now that just ain't fair. You didn't see the thing. If you're so certain that it's that easy then why don't you go out there and catch it?"
The ronin turned on the ball of his heel, "Already on it. Watch and learn boys." He flashed Kagome a confident wink as he strolled out into the inner courtyard where Yamazaki was still running around. The shorter man was the picture of frustration. Sweat beaded his brow as he panted—rushing to keep up with Saito as they chased after the flash of color that he presumed to be the cat.
Okita approached, "That thing still running amuck?" He tilted his chin towards the engawa where it'd retreated to safety. A low feline hiss emanated from the shadows beneath. True to word, he did see a tiny flicker of light around its paws. Huh, now that was strange.
Saito stopped to catch his breath, "You've come to help?"
His lips pulled into a wide smirk, "When don't I?"
Chizuru jumped at the sound of a tree crashing. What in the world was going on!? She glanced outside. Her eyes were wide and her mouth dropped. The cherry tree that once stood proudly at the center of the inner courtyard was felled. Its thick truck was split apart in ragged edges—almost as if someone had hacked away at it with a sword. The premature petals fell in a coat of pink around its branches. Looks like their spring was already over.
"Catch it!" She heard Okita cry out. Chizuru quickly ducked back into her room long enough to spy a tiny kitten dashing across the hallway. Saito, Okita and Yamazaki followed right afterwards. She blinked and then they were gone. What on earth…? Chizuru didn't have time to question what she'd seen.
Heisuke darted into her room, pulling her in with him as he fought to catch his breath.
"It's chaos out there, you don't want to get caught up in it!" He clasped his palms over his knees—huffing as if he'd just run a mile.
Chizuru bent down to peer up at his face, "Are you alright? I should have some water if you need it."
His face turned a bright shade of red. He casually looked to the side before shaking his head.
"N-no, I'm fine." She heard him stutter.
The pair stopped as Okita ran back across the hall. He skidded to a halt in front of her door.
"Ah, have you guys seen Kagome?"
They looked at each other then shook their heads.
The ronin's brows furrowed, "Damn, I lost sight of her earlier. I was hopin' she'd have an idea of how to catch that thing."
"You got in over your head, didn't you?" Heisuke sighed.
Okita pinned him with a cool glare, "Like you've made any progress?" His tone was sharp; causing Chizuru to jump slightly. She'd never heard him snap like that before. "Anyways, I think the other guys are coming back around." He waved his hand and called the others over as they rushed into her room. The young woman blinked. Did her quarters just get turned into a meeting room?
The captains piled in a circle, resting themselves before Heisuke started the conversation.
"So what are we supposed to do about that thing? The cat has run amuck everywhere!" He threw his arms around wildly to emphasize his point.
Harada sighed, "Yeah and it destroyed lunch too. The place is a mess. We jumped ship as soon as Gen walked in on us." There was a collective shiver amongst the group. She cocked her head to the side. Gen? Did they mean Inoue? He always seemed so kind and gentle. Much like a pleasant grandfather. Could he really be that terrifying when infuriated?
Okita started in, "Let's not forget that the holy terror is still running around. Any bets on where that thing might strike next?"
The group devolved into dividing tasks amongst themselves. Okita and Saito were going to corral the feline. Nagakura and Harada were to rescue lunch. Which just left Heisuke to buy some time with Hijikata.
The teen's eyes landed on her pleadingly, "Would you mind helping me? I could use some back up."
Okita rolled his eyes, "Yeah, more like you just need a sacrificial lamb to throw at the alter." He jutted a thumb in his direction. "Don't let those puppy-eyes fool you. He's good at dumping the blame on other people's feet."
Heisuke quickly stood to his full height.
"Hey, now that's just rude! I wasn't asking so I could blame her! Hijikata-san just seems to treat her with baby gloves…" He stopped, practically clapping a hand over his mouth.
Okita rolled his eyes a second time, "See? You're just the bait, half pint."
Chizuru glanced between them curiously.
"Baby gloves?" She cocked her head to the side. What exactly did they mean by that? Hijikata was a terrifying man. She'd never seen his temper first-hand, but she'd heard the rumors. It was quite terrifying to think about. Had Hijikata really put a temper on his aggressiveness around her? She wasn't sure.
Okita rolled his shoulders, "He can't handle women. If he ever pisses you off just yell at him. That'll shut him up real quick."
Chizuru threw her hands up, "Oh no, I couldn't do that!" Plus yelling at the Demon Commander? There was no way she'd ever be able to walk out of the room with her head still attached if she ever tried that.
Heisuke slumped in defeat, "So did you want to help?"
All eyes were suddenly on her. She stuttered then glanced towards Harada.
"If you don't mind, I'd like to help rescue lunch." She was certain that she wasn't quite ready to face Hijikata head on. Especially if they were supposed to buy time for the others to find the cat and clean the mess it'd left behind. Cooking was one of her few good skills so if she could help out then she'd like to do it the best way that she could.
Harada gave a sigh of relief, "Thank goodness. I think we can manage if we have you on board." A grin spread across his lips. "I wasn't sure if we could've finished everything in time on our own but if we've got you then it should go ten times faster."
"That's because you can't cook for shit." Okita slid his gaze towards the courtyard—a smirk playing upon the corners of his mouth. Had he always been this antagonistic with the others?
Harada shot him an unimpressed look, "Says the guy that could kill a man with his cooking. Tell me, you make Kagome do it all because you're scared you'd send her into an early gave with the monstrosities you create?"
She wasn't sure but she thought she felt a chill the moment Okita pinned the other Captain with a cold glare. She clutched her hands to her chest as all the air in her lungs froze.
"Souji!" Kagome's voice cut through the tension. She poked her head through the door, peering at the group of them huddled together. A curious look flitted over her features before glancing back at her husband. "Here you are. Yamazaki's been screaming for you. Apparently he thinks its your cat? I had to tell him a few times that it wasn't, but I can't get him to settle down. Do you mind talking to him before Hijikata catches wind of it?" She shifted her attention towards Harada and the others. "Also I've gone ahead and set up a few food traps to lure it out. It'd probably be best to leave it alone for now. The poor thing is going to be petrified and probably in hiding. If you guys need any more help though then let me know." Finally she set her sights upon her, "Also Chizuru-chan, try not to get too caught up in the chaos. These guys are good people, but they can be idiots sometimes." The young woman playfully prodded at Okita's cheek with her index finger.
The man's expression soured, "Hey, did you just call me an idiot?"
Kagome grinned, "Yup. You were stirring up trouble right before this too, weren't you?"
He took a great interest in the felled tree in the courtyard, "No idea where you got that from."
He didn't deny it.
Chizuru sat stiffly as they bickered amongst each other. By the end of it Kagome had wrapped her hand around Okita's and pulled him off towards their quarters. It was strange how well their personalities complimented one another. Kagome was soft and understanding where Okita was harsh and protective. They both melded well together and it was clear that the man held his wife in high regard. She'd never once heard him disparage her to anyone, let alone the other guys. In fact she'd only ever heard him sing her praises. The converse held similarly true. While Kagome never actively fell over herself in excitement, she did speak highly of Okita—often defending him against Hijikata when necessary.
Her eyes drifted towards the outline of their figures. Although Kagome was usually the first person who called on him whenever he acted poorly. She supposed that, that was the trade off of having such a close relationship to one another. It was heartwarming to see from an outsider's perspective.
"Just like that and she's got him under control." Harada leaned on his palms. "Never thought I'd see the day when a woman could tame his wild spirit."
Nagakura rested against her wall, "Yeah? Well I'm still trying to figure out how in the hell he ever convinced her to marry him." The ronin flailed his hand around wildly. "Their story just doesn't add up! Why would he hide out in her well whenever he could've just traipsed his happy ass up to their shrine. Plus this whole miko business is weird." His voice lowered. "I ain't buyin' it. I think he just kidnapped her off some poor farmhand."
Surprisingly, it was Saito who was the first to reject that proclamation.
"If she were just a farmhand then she'd have little to no knowledge of the sword." Cobalt eyes narrowed into thin slits. "The wakizashi she carries is a blade meant for a lighter-weight."
Harada quirked his brow, "Her wakizashi? What, is there something special about it?"
Now all eyes were upon him.
Saito sighed, "I noticed it in our fight before but it was made with a thin and very light steel. Lighter than most which means that it was likely hand crafted. Additionally," He folded his arms over his chest. "The length and weight seems to suggest that it was originally crafted for a female user. If it were too heavy then it'd be difficult to carry on a daily basis."
Nagakura blinked, "So you're saying she made it herself?"
The other Captain shook his head, "No. I'm saying that she was likely in contact with a female swordsman before her marriage to Souji." He stood from his spot. "She's mentioned once that the sword she carries is one that was passed down to her by a friend. One that had taught her the basics of fighting. Which means that the friend in question knew how to properly craft and maintain a blade." He turned on his heel, heading towards the door. "No farmhand would have the skill, money or capacity to enable their daughter to have such friends or skills. Their story is strange, but I think it's closer to the truth than any of the other rumors." With that he'd left them to their thoughts.
"So basically, they're not lying but they are omitting information." Heisuke added as an afterthought.
Chizuru scratched at her chin thoughtfully.
"If what Saito-san says is true then would that mean that Kagome-chan had some strange connections? It's unusual for women to know how to fight. Her having a female teacher is rather odd." Even her own master had been male. She'd taken up a few lessons at a local dojo in the months prior to her departure. She hadn't ever been great at it, but she knew enough to survive.
Harada roughly stood from his seat, "Ah we'll think about it later. Let's just get lunch fixed up. Heisuke we still need you to buy us some time." A confident grin split his lips. "With the food traps out we can focus solely on getting everything sorted. Just leave the cat for Souji and Kagome."
"Right!" They announced in unison. Heisuke slumped in his seat. His lips pulled into a pout as an air of gloom hung over him. A wave of pity went through her. She felt bad but she knew that it would be far out of her league to try to help him. Right now she'd do what she could.
Chizuru pulled up her sleeves, "Let's rescue lunch!"
Okita sighed. As expected, Kagome was still trying to wander about the compound in search of the little cat that'd caused them so much trouble. Even with the food traps set out, she was determined to see the creature firsthand.
"Is there any particular reason you're so dead set on finding this thing?" He poked his head under the engawa. Nothing but darkness and the stench of damp wood met his senses. Not there either. He sat back on his haunches. Emerald eyes slid over towards his wife.
Kagome was on her hands and knees, crawling deeper beneath the engawa than he had. His mind envisioned a vastly different activity the moment she lowered her torso closer towards the ground. Damn, why'd they have to get interrupted earlier?
"Because I have a suspicion." She sat back up. "But I won't know for certain until I find it."
That got his attention.
"Suspicion?" He shifted to crouch next to her. "What do you mean?" His gaze met hers fiercely. He had only one idea that came to mind. If people were starting to resurface in her life from her previous travels, then could it be possible that this 'cat' wasn't a cat at all? But rather some sort of youkai?
Kagome paused. A flicker of concern flashed over her features, "Well that friend I told you about that'd trained me. She had a companion. A cat so to speak."
Okita nodded. He tried to encourage her to continue when the loud cry of a child rang out. The stood to their feet.
His wife flashed him an apologetic smile, "I'll explain later. We should go check it out."
The ronin relaxed his shoulders, "Fine but that doesn't mean you're getting out of it." A sly grin slanted over his lips. "I'll have you fessing it up one way or another."
A bright flush warmed her cheeks. Ah, so she caught his meaning in that one. A wave of masculine pride rushed through him. He had to admit that it felt good seeing her flustered like that. She was more adorable than she gave herself credit for.
The couple stopped as they came across the Yagi's oldest son. The boy buried his face in his arms as he wailed loudly. Okita quirked his brow. Now what brought this on? The child was usually mild mannered. He'd never seen him throw a tantrum like this before.
His wife crouched down beside him, ensuring that she was at the same height as the boy.
"There now, what's wrong?" She gently encouraged him to drop his arms away.
The boy sniffed and sobbed—eeking out a short explanation between his cries, "It's gone… lost…"
Kagome used her sleeve to wipe some of the stray tears, "What's lost?"
In that moment there was something very maternal about the image she was giving off. Kagome was a caring individual to an extreme point. That much was a given. However he'd never really had the chance to see her interact with children outside of her own brother. They were always somewhat isolated—either in her family's home or too focused on each other on the spare dates they'd spend together. This was the first time he'd truly taken notice of how well she handled herself around them. Although she did have a penchant for handling Chizuru as if she were a lost child. He curled his thumb and index finger over his chin. She would make an amazing mother.
Although that sort of talk would have to wait for some time. He'd rather that she feel ready for that sort of responsibility before they tried to have kids of their own.
The boy sniffled. His sobs calmed just enough to form his sentences, "The cat. It got out. Now I can't find it." The tears started up again.
His wife stood. She curled one hand around the boy's as they started making their way back towards the compound.
"Then let's look for it together. It might be a little scared so we've got to be patient, okay?" Her voice was gentle—much the way she used to address him when he'd been at his worst. Okita came to the boy's other side. He gently took his other hand as they started the search.
"It's alright, kid. Cats are nimble. So, it'll be fine no matter what, but you miss it, right?" The child's fingers curled a little tighter. He gave a very short nod of affirmation. Okita pressed forward, "Then we'll look for now. Just make sure to tell us if you start feeling sick or if your feet hurt. Got it?"
"Okay." He sniffed.
The ronin grinned, "That's more like it."
Kagome watched as Okita sat the child upon his shoulders. The pair walked around, calling out for the little animal as they went. A smile formed at the corner of her lips. She'd known that Okita had a fondness for children. He'd taken so well to Souta and often liked to keep the local kids company during his downtime. At least that's what the others had said. They'd both been quite wrapped up in each other since their return that neither of them fully had the time to return to their old routines.
Her gaze softened at her husband's wide smile. She never thought she'd see the day.
"Souji, dinner should be ready soon!" She cupped a hand to her cheek, calling out to the two. They'd spent most of the day looking around but to no avail. The cat was sly when it wanted to be. For now it'd simply gone into hiding and wasn't likely to come out any time soon. In order to keep the boy from crying, Okita had taken his time to lift his spirits. They'd played a few games before he put him on his shoulders and started walking around that way. It was heartwarming to witness.
Her husband turned. He addressed the child before placing him back onto his feet.
"Alright kiddo, you heard the lady. The cat will probably turn up tomorrow so try not to fret." He dropped his palm of his head, tousling his hair affectionately. "Let's get you back to your ma before she starts to worry."
She came to their side.
The Yagi family had been exceptionally kind in allowing the Shinsengumi to station their headquarters in their family home. The compound was split up into three separate buildings. The Yagi House where the highest ranked soldiers lived, the Maekawa house where the rank-and-file soldiers lived out their day to day lives, then there was the Nambu house where Sanan held his experiments. The last one she and Chizuru were expressly forbidden from entering.
Kagome followed as they made their way back to the building which housed the Yagi family. They were a small family of four. A husband, wife an oldest son and a newborn daughter. The children were often quiet and rarely caused an issue so this was an unusual incident.
The boy's mother was already waiting for them as they returned for the day. He rushed up to her and wrapped his arms around her legs, telling her everything he'd done.
"Sorry about the hassle," Okita smiled apologetically at the woman. She waved her hand in a placating manner before ushering her family back inside.
Kagome turned her head towards him, "Ready to go eat?"
His lips curled upwards in a wide grin, "Am I ever."
They stopped at the sound of a loud cry.
"There it is!"
Huh, had they found the cat? The shriek of excitement suddenly shifted into one of terror.
Oh no.
"Let's go!" She grabbed her husband's hand before taking off as fast as her legs could carry her. Please, don't let anyone get hurt! Her mind raced through all the options. Fire, speed and agility. Not to mention the two tails. Was it possible? Could she really have travelled all the way to Kyoto?
With dusk settling into evening they could easily spot the bright flame of something burning. A cold wave of dread ran through her. She knew it. She knew it'd had to be her.
Nagakura had his sword drawn. His face was a mask of furious terror. In front of him stood a mighty beast. It was roughly the size of a lion. Flame cackled around its body as it backed itself against the felled tree. She created an image that she wasn't used to: all claws, fangs and fire—roaring out with a ferocity that caused her body to stop in its tracks.
"Oi, what the hell!" He swung at it wildly. "Don't tell me this is actually one of those cat-demon things!"
She released Okita's hand. He caught her wrist just before she stepped forward. The question written over his face was one she could read without words.
"It'll be fine." She smiled up at him. "I'll explain later but for now, let me handle this." She placed her palm upon his cheek. "Will you trust me?"
He stopped, looking between her and the volatile beast in the clearing. She knew how protective he was. No matter what he was always thinking about her safety and comfort first and foremost. At no point would he ever feel comfortable with her charging headfirst into danger. Alas, this was something she knew she could handle.
Okita sighed heavily, "Fine but I'm stepping in if things go south." His grip on her tightened. "I can't lose you." She felt his mouth upon hers for the briefest of moments.
Kagome nodded, "You won't."
With that she rushed in.
"Put your sword away!" She called out to Nagakura, placing herself between him and the over-sized feline.
"Are you crazy!? That thing will tear you apart!" He tried to move around her however she gave his shin a swift kick, forcing him onto one of his knees.
"Just listen to me! It's acting out defensively. Lower your weapon and make yourself seem less dangerous to it!" She posed herself more firmly between them. Kagome lifted her palms and held out her arms. "Easy," She directed her voice at the battle-cat. Scarlet eyes settled on her. A flash of violence flickered behind that vicious glare. Could she not recognize her? "Easy girl," She moved to block her view of Nagakura. "You're fine. No one here wants to hurt you."
"Girl?" The man behind her stumbled over the thought. "How do you know it's a girl?"
"Shut up, Shin." Okita yanked him away by his collar.
The lioness roared, swiping a paw at her but stopping just before it came into contact. She knew what she had to do.
"Kirara," Kagome tried once more. "It's alright." The animal froze. The snarls stopped as the hackles upon its back lowered. "That's it, do you remember me?" She stepped forward. Kirara gave a low growl. The creature lowered its head and waited as she calmly wrapped her arms around her. "You're fine." She tried once more. "No one will hurt you."
The feline paused for several seconds. Then the flames receded. They flickered and sputtered until only a tiny ember burned around its feet. The tiny cat yowled as she burrowed herself in her arms.
"There now, you must've come a long way." Kagome sighed as Kirara continually pressed herself into her; crying out as she did so. How long had she been travelling? How did she even get to Kyoto? Well, maybe not the right question but why?
She turned her attention towards her husband, "Souji, think you can get a pale and some water ready? Poor thing needs a bath."
His eyes scanned them cautiously. He nodded once but ensured to keep close to her as they made their way back towards their quarters. She was sure that he had so many questions that he wanted to ask.
Kagome waited until they were safely inside their room with the pale of water and a rag prepared.
"There now, let's get you clean." She was mildly surprised when the nekomata did not fight her on that. Even back during their travels she was finicky about water. Perhaps she was simply too focused to care.
Okita settled into a seat beside her, "I don't suppose I have to ask about whether or not it's a youkai." He glanced down at her with the same cautious look as before.
She nodded, combing her hands through the cat's fur. It was strangely soft despite the filth that still clung to it. How long had she been roaming the streets on her own?
"Do you remember when I said that a friend saved my life the night I returned home for the last time?" She met his gaze with a small smile. "That friend was Kirara. She's a nekomata and she used that other form you saw earlier to carry me to the well." The water turned murky as the dirt fell from her. "She was originally the familiar of a demon slayer. That slayer was the one who taught me how to fight. Unfortunately, she'd passed long before the night Kirara carried me home. So, I guess I have both of them to thank for even being here today."
She cradled the feline, wrapping her in a warm towel. Kagome gently dried her fur.
"It's strange, I never thought I'd be able to see you again. At least not like this." She directed her comment towards the cat. Kirara mewled happily, throwing herself against her lap as she continued to dry her off. "Have you eaten?" The animal mewled again. "I'll take that as a no. Souji," She turned back towards her husband. "Would you mind grabbing some of the food I'd set out earlier? Probably best to make sure she's fed and cared for right now."
Okita curled his arms around her. He swiftly pulled her into his chest and buried his face into the crook of her neck. She felt his hands tangle themselves in her hair as he sucked a heavy breath through his nose.
"You love giving me a heart attack, don't you?" His arms tightened around her. Kirara leapt off her lap. She circled around them, pawing at Okita's leg curiously when he held her even closer to his heart. "Why do you keep diving headfirst into these kinds of things? You don't have to prove yourself to anyone. Not even to me." He pulled back, shifting his hands to take her face between his palms. "You don't have to fight. You don't have to put yourself in danger. That's the whole point of being here, right?" His lips pulled upwards into a faint smile. "Don't ever force yourself. Not for anyone."
Her breath left her. He was shaking. Okita had shown his vulnerable side only on a spare few occasions but never had she seen him as torn as he was right now. How stressed had he been to watch her corral Kirara while she was in her battle form? The young woman braced her arms around his back in a show of comfort.
"I don't do this to prove myself." She pressed her lips against his cheek in a soft, reassuring kiss. "I do it because I know I can." She brushed her mouth over his lightly. "And there's one more reason."
Okita slanted his mouth over hers more firmly, "What's that?" His voice lacked his usual teasing edge. In its place was a seriousness that she couldn't shake. How long had it been since she last felt someone show this much concern for her outside of her own family? Granted, Okita was her family now.
She pressed her nose against his, "Because I know you're there with me." She trailed her hand up his shoulder blades and stopped only as her palm came into contact with the back of his neck. She tangled her fingers into his hair affectionately, "I know that if something were to happen then you'll be right there with me. I'm not as afraid of stepping in anymore. Although I'll try to avoid scaring you in the future."
His expression dropped, "Easier said than done. We've still got to sort out that whole Kazama business. Not to mention the idiots here keep falling all over themselves whenever you're around."
Her mouth met his, "Am I detecting jealousy?"
He slanted his lips over hers fiercely, "Very jealous."
They weren't perfect but what they had was strong. Kagome sighed against him with content. She felt his hands push at her shoulders and she knew what was to come next. The rough-leather sensation of his hands traveled up her arm towards her own hands. He splayed his fingers and interlaced them together. No matter what, they would be in this together.
Hijikata cast a baleful look at the kitten curled up in Kagome's lap. It yawned loudly, not caring about a single person glaring over at it. He was the 'Demon Commander' wasn't he? Why was it his men always seemed to find ways to skirt around his rules?
"Get rid of it." His order was met with a plaintive look by the woman.
Kagome shook her head and folded her arms over the animal, "Not happening. Besides, Kirara chooses where she wants to be. I'd like to see you try to shoo her off."
Damn it.
"Souji!" He set his sights on her husband. "You know damn well we can't let this thing stay here."
The ronin held up his hands, "What do you want me to do about it? We tried gettin' rid of it yesterday. Look how that turned out."
All eyes subconsciously drifted towards the felled cherry blossom. Black soot still charred parts of the trunk where it'd been backed against. They were fortunate the whole thing hadn't just gone up in flames.
Hijikata pinched the bridge of his nose. Just what in the hell did he get himself into?
Kirara stretched out on Kagome's lap. Tiny claws kneaded at the skirt of her yukata. Strangely, the fire around its legs did not burn her clothing. He sighed. There was no fighting with an Edo woman. Okita's wife in particular was an especially difficult opponent to argue with. He'd never seen a man win a verbal fight against her.
Okita had taken to spoiling her; though not that she asked for much in the first place. However the man never had the heart to deny her anything. He was as doting of a husband as they came. In spite of the kindness the two shared between each other, Kagome had the intelligence that rivaled many scholars. She was one of the few that could walk Sanan into a proverbial corner. Her opinion was valued in many aspects however this was a peculiar case in its own right.
"With all due respect Hijikata-san," She pinned him with a pointed look. "The only reason she transformed yesterday was because she felt threatened. Kirara is an asset in battle and has been a companion for many years. She's far from destructive."
He looked back out towards the damage it'd inflicted upon their home, "I beg to differ."
Kagome squared her shoulders, "My mind will not be changed that easily. If you think you can remove her yourself then go ahead and try." There it was again. That same sharp tongue he'd gotten used to during his youth. Okita was right about one thing. He did not like hearing women scold him. It reminded him of the days when his sister often ranted at him for doing something foolish. It brought back memories of nostalgia and childlike nervousness. Unfortunately the worst man picked up on that weakness and often used his wife as a means of taking full advantage of it. Prick.
Kirara sat up as if she understood that their conversation currently revolved around her. The cat mewled, keeping its scarlet eyes upon him. His instincts whispered in the back of his mind. There was something more about that animal—fire and transformation aside.
He took a long sigh, "Fine but the responsibility falls on you to take care of it. If the damn thing makes another mess I'm throwing it out myself."
Kagome smiled, "I like to see you do that but regardless there won't be a problem."
His brow twitched. She just had to get the last word in, didn't she? Kagome wasn't antagonistic per say but she definitely had her limits. Most times she treated him with respect. There were other times thoughts, just like now, where'd she revert to a personality similar to Okita's. It was frustrating but he didn't have the ability to deny her on this aspect. If the cat truly was nondestructive then it wouldn't be any skin off his nose. The only concern was the very real threat it posed his men if it ever went on a rampage.
He trusted his soldiers to hold their own. However a beast was an entirely different thing to fight altogether.
Kirara leapt off the young woman's lap. She approached him, rubbing her face over his leg before trotting towards Okita. The man scooped it up into his arms; holding it close to his chest as he made his way towards his wife.
"Looks like its settled." He passed the animal back to her. "Kirara is staying."
It meowed in agreement.
A/n: A little bit shorter and something of a slight break between plot points for now. I've mentioned this before but this particular idea was inspired but the Shinsengumi Adventures 1 side story in Stories of the Shinsengumi game. It was honestly hilarious and I did try to incorporate a lot of the key points that happen namely the crying child, felled tree and destroyed kitchen. Kirara will be playing a much bigger role in the series as we go along but I figured I'd give her something both entertaining and fit well within the Hakuouki universe for her introduction which was how we got this. My only disappointment was the fact that I didn't quite get the chance to add in Harada's POV as that might've made things a bit more entertaining. Regardless thanks so much for sticking around so long guys. You've all been a wonderful support as I've gone through this process with you. Hope you enjoyed!
**Hanami – Literally translated as "flower viewing"; it's a festival during the Spring season of Japan when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Its origins can be traced back to Nara Period Japan (710-794AD). People gather around the trees and special food items like Hanami Dango (brightly colored dango) are also used to partake in the celebration. This viewing season can stretch anywhere between late March and early May depending on the seasons. Conversely Hanami at night is also referred to a "Yozakura".