Author's Note:
Greetings & salutations dear readers!
First: Thank you SO MUCH to maeko28 from tumblr for my current cover art for Teachings of Demons (December 15, 2016)! \(*u*)/
This chapter is little darker than I would like for what is for many of us a season of celebration. However, there is the promise of brighter things to come. :)
The Yukishima have become a strange family, without question. Why did I pick on them, you might ask?
The long answer: Well, there is the genetic fluke that their family, the cadet branch of the clan of the Lords of the North, almost always produces identical twin girls. This is most consistent in the main line, which is why there are so many black-haired, purple-eyed twin girls around. On the other hand, it also means that by this point, all of the family have married into the Yukishima Shinobi line (as I refer to it)-and then married cousins (also descended from Yukishima twins) and so on. And an identical twin is significantly more genetically alike than a mere brother or sister.
The short answer: I had a backstory for Kimigiku that I wanted to explore.
One other thing: The Yukimura family is known for fraternal twins such as Kaoru and Chizuru.
Some thank-yous to reviewers before going on to the story:
missMallow ~ Welcome to the story and thank you for not being put off by the (now) 70 chapters and 330,000 plus words. I'm glad you like the writing! :)
Eliz1369 ~ Great to see your username again (I guess the laptop was working?). Thank you for mentioning Kaoru's "twist" on the Yukimura Gift of healing.
DoodletheWhiteRaven ~ You identified pretty much my favourite sexy line in the whole chapter, maybe the whole story. Tingles. (Is it warm in here?)
Shell1331 ~ You laughed at the "Saitou vs. Tea"-yes!
DancesWithSeatbelts ~ I love reading all your reviews because you really notice things, but thank you very much for posting reviews for the earlier chapters as well as the newer ones. Granted, you are reading the story in a "time warp" kind of way, but it's fun to hear your views on the characters "then and now", since you can see that I did, in fact, put in lots of hints.
PoivronRouge ~ Merci encore, j'apprécie beaucoup que tu continues à lire cette histoire. Plus que ça, tu m'écris des commentaires détaillées et poses des questions qui me montrent que tu as très bien compris ce que je voulais suggéré.
the Patriarch Listens ~ I do realize what a compliment it is that my story now competes with Sportscentre now for your time, thank you!
nakigaoyuu ~ You appreciate Yamazaki for the sweetheart that he is (he's blushing, probably). Also, I've fallen a little in love with Kichirou: I guess I'll have to scrap the idea of killing him off... Sigh. ;)
14Phantom ~ I went looking for you in vain on tumblr, but thank you for accurately assessing what Chizuru couldn't quite bring herself to say about Yukishima-sama. :D
~(O_o)~ *get on with the story*
~ ImpracticalOni (ok, I will)
Warning: As with most of my writing, there is nothing graphic below. ** However, there are strong implications of long-term physical and mental abuse. **
Quotes for Chapter 70
"I do not speak as I think, I do not think as I should, and so it all goes on in helpless darkness."
― Franz Kafka
"We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light."
― Plato
Chapter 70—Assassination, Part II
[I] - The Darkness Within
The Village of Yase had the same protected, peaceful feeling as the grounds of Sen-hime's home in Kyoto. Despite this, Saitō did not feel at ease. He felt cautiously pleased that he had apparently overcome Kichirō-kun's grudge against him—if such it could be called. He wished that the boy's very appearance did not stir up antipathy, or at least deep suspicion, in his own mind. It was not Kichirō-kun's presence that kept him even more than usually alert, however. It was the knowledge that the remnants of Sen-hime's family were here, unknown and untested, and that Amagiri's and Kimigiku-san's greatest opponent was not far from here, also unknown and likely strongly opposed to Sen-hime's wishes.
He could tell that Sen-hime shared his tension; on the other hand, Chiharu-sama was collected and mostly unreadable, at least to Saitō. Kichirō-kun was obviously thinking about their sparring match. If Saitō had been more like Nagakura or Harada, he would be smiling and teasing the boy about his occasional hand twitches and skipping movements as he reviewed the sequence of the bout. Later, Saitō wanted to think about the fact that Kazama Chikage's younger siblings were well-trained and possibly likeable. The arrogance was there as well, but without the same violent edge.
As planned, Sen-hime left a message at her own estate in Yase. The well-dressed servant who opened the door was clearly delighted to see the Princess, and pleased that she and her guests would be stopping in for lunch. Saitō reminded himself again that he was interacting with the ruling class of this hidden society, and food did not seem to be a problem for them as it was for the Shinsengumi and many of the people of Kyoto.
In fact, the recurring food shortages were a large part of why the southwest of Japan was so unsettled. The truth was that a great deal of food was being sent north to feed the shogun and his allies, while many people were on the verge of starvation despite living on or near fertile land. Saitō knew from Hijikata-san's discussions with Kondō-san, Sannan-san and Nagakura (who took a keen interest in politics), that the Shinsengumi leadership was not wholly convinced that Satsuma-han, far to the south of Kyoto and Edo, was truly committed to the Tokugawa shogunate. After all, Satsuma controlled some of the best land in all of Japan for growing fruit, and was much closer to the rebellious Chōshu province than to cool and rocky Aizu-han where the Matsudaira family—and the shogunate—held sway.
The village was roughly square and built around a central square. It was very pretty and well-tended, with greenery flourishing despite the heat of mid-summer. It took Saitō some time to understand that part of what was bothering him was that most of the homes were empty. It was an entire village and had obviously once been flourishing—and now it was lifeless. For a moment he felt a wholly unexpected sadness and even fleeting comprehension of why some Oni might fight desperately to bring back the past. To see Oni children laughing and running in the streets, and craftsmen and vendors minding stores or gossiping at their doorways. How many part-Oni were there?
At the far end of the village, the main street ended in an open space and a set of gates that clearly belonged to some private estate—the grounds of the Yukishima shinobi clan, presumably. The gates appeared to be ancient, but in excellent repair. Saitō admired the ornamentation in passing; his interest was entirely with the layout and how effective the defenses might be from attack or infiltration on this side. Even as he was considering the polished tips on the short spikes on the wooden palisade—steel or Soul-inscribed silver?—the iron-bound porter's door opened and a tall, broad-shouldered man with dark red hair stepped out and bowed deeply to Sen-hime.
There was no mistaking the resemblance to Amagiri Kyūju. This was his father's brother. Saitō, long-used to collecting and retrieving information, brought the name to mind immediately: Yukishima Amagiri Hideo, in accordance with the Oni tradition of having a consort take on the family name of the higher-ranked spouse upon marriage where clan leadership was involved. As far as the Oni were concerned, Saitō was Yukimura Sakurai Hajime; only his unique situation (literally) allowed him to use Sakurai as a way of indicating that one or more children of the marriage might be given his family name.
"Good morning, Hideo-sama," said Sen pleasantly, bowing politely, although not deeply. "Were you here by chance? You do not usually keep your own gates."
"Good morning, Sen-hime," responded Hideo. "My wife was aware that you were in Yase and so I came to see if you would be visiting us today. It has been too long since we have had the pleasure of your company, Princess."
This man was impenetrable to Saitō's senses—more so than Chiharu and much like his nephew, in fact. But knowing Amagiri so well gave him some insight now. After all, Saitō had learned to observe people of all kinds long before his Oni faculties had fully developed. In his opinion, this man was conflicted. That was interesting.
"It is my loss, I know," Sen-hime was saying. "But this seemed like an auspicious time to visit, since my cousins are here."
"Good morning, Yukishima-sama," murmured Chiharu, bowing.
Greetings were exchanged between the Kazama siblings and Amagiri's uncle. They clearly knew each other, although not especially well. Saitō waited patiently, curious to see how Sen-hime would introduce him to the consort of the Yukishima clan head.
Sen-hime smiled sweetly. "This is Saitō Hajime-san, who has been teaching swordcraft to Kichirou-kun."
To Saitō's slight surprise, Kichirō did not betray the… inaccuracy of the statement in any way. The older man did look puzzled, however. Then he nodded, almost to himself.
"I suppose that Kazama-sama has been very busy lately," Hideo agreed, favouring Saitō with a short bow. Saitō thought that the tall Oni had accepted Sen-hime's explanation, until he found himself looking into the pale blue eyes of the man upon straightening from his own bow.
So swiftly and quietly that he wasn't even sure what had happened at first, there was a light mental touch, flickering across his mind and then gone: You are Saitō of the Shinsengumi. And you are also Oni and kin. We will speak.
The Third Division Captain was stunned. His hand had gone to the hilt of his sword, but at Sen-hime's look of disapproval he managed to catch himself and went no further.
"Chiharu-sama and I are here to see Yukishima-sama," said Sen-hime. "Will you escort us, please?"
"As you wish, Sen-hime," replied Hideo, bowing again. "I hope that Kichirō-sama and Saitō-san will accompany you?"
Chiharu-sama, who seemed to have guessed that not all was well, laid a gentle hand on Kichirō's shoulder.
"Saitō-san had promised to conduct Kichirō's regular lesson while they were waiting for us, Yukishima-sama. I'm afraid that Kichirō is overly fond of swords. That is why they are not in clothing suitable for your Lady's court."
"I see." Hideo-sama turned to Kichirō-kun. "If you would like to train in our dojo, then you are most welcome. As you can imagine, it is well-equipped. Also, at this time in the morning, Mamoru is likely also honing his skills. You are of an age, but I do not think that you have met."
The Oni's expression remained politely neutral, but he had made it exceptionally difficult to refuse and he knew it. This time, both Chiharu-sama and Kichirō-kun looked at Sen-hime, who appeared honestly taken aback.
"That is a kind offer, Hideo-sama," Sen said slowly. "And I believe that I appreciate your curiosity with respect to Kichirō-kun's training arrangements. After all, a master who meets Chikage-sama's expectations is sure to be unusual. Very well, I accept on Kichirō-kun's behalf. I know that you will extend every courtesy of your house to Kichirō-kun and Saitō-san."
Hideo-sama bowed again. "Of course, Sen-hime. Please come this way."
The estate was very lovely and even larger than Sen's. Saitō noted the details automatically; his mind was focussed on possible escape—and on guarding himself against mental attack. He needed to know more, but he wasn't sure that the knowledge was worth the risk.
The house was two stories in the center, with single-story wings to either side. Once again, Saitō realized that at some point the Oni must have been much greater in numbers, and he felt a strange sense of loss. Since there could be no personal meaning in such a feeling, he set it aside, but he did not forget it. Loss, grief and longing for the past could drive people to do terrible things.
Hideo-sama pointed to a bordered path that led through the garden around the right side of the house.
"If you will follow that path, Kichirō-kun, Saitō-san, you will find the dojo. I will join you there shortly."
All four guests looked at the tall red-head in some surprise. It would have been far more courteous to invite Saitō and Kichirō into the house instead of forcing them to walk around the whole building. On the other hand, it was probably better for all concerned.
After a brief exchange of more courtesies, Hideo-sama led his guests toward the house and Saitō and Kichirō moved away down the right-hand path. Saitō could tell that Kichirō was uneasy about the situation without quite knowing why. After walking for a short time in silence through the hot and fragrant garden, Saitō made up his mind; although he was not one to disclose information unnecessarily, it seemed to him that everyone would be safer if the boy knew more about what was going on.
"Kichirō-kun."
The blond head turned quickly toward him, and he once again pushed away the immediate anger that still rose upon seeing ruby eyes and that face. It was ironic, but right now, in this place, this Kazama might be an ally.
"Yes, Saitō-sama?"
Saitō didn't bother to correct him.
"You know that your brother is the one who injured Amagiri Kyūju-san. Now that you have seen him, you know what blade inflicted those wounds."
This time the proud head drooped.
"Hai."
"Your brother has dismissed Amagiri from his service and from the Western Clans, on a charge of oath-breaking. The sentence was commuted from death at Sen-hime's insistence, and your brother has placed Amagiri into my absolute charge as a condition of the lesser sentence of losing his right hand."
Saitō felt, as much as heard, Kichirō's sharp intake of breath. As prepared as he had thought he was for bad news, the boy had hoped to hear something else. Also, it was possible that he hadn't known about the hand. Amagiri was being careful to keep it concealed.
"I… understand."
"Your brother wished to marry Yukimura Chizuru-sama."
Kichirō nodded miserably. "I see that now."
"So you understand that Kazama Chikage-sama and I are not on good terms. We have a temporary truce, at best."
Silence. Kichirō's steps had slowed and Saitō slackened his pace as well.
"Why are you telling me this?" Kichirō asked.
"You needed to know. Do you know why we are here today?"
"Not really, except that it is a matter of some importance. Why are we here?"
"We are here to protect your younger brother."
"Kenshin?" Kichirō said incredulously. "But Kenshin is with Mother."
"Kenshin-kun is not your brother by blood. He is the son of Amagiri Kyūju-san and Yukishima Chikame-sama."
Saitō put an apparently friendly hand on Kichirō's shoulder and kept him moving forward. As they came into the area behind the house, Kichirō finally found his voice again.
"And you're telling me now?!"
Saitō shrugged.
"It would have been better if Chiharu-sama had told you sooner. I had planned to discuss it with you while we waited for Sen-hime regardless."
Kichirō stared at him, his face reflecting various emotions. "But why?"
"If something goes wrong, and you need to protect your sister and Sen-hime, I don't want you dealing with the information for the first time. Anyone might be shocked and freeze for a moment."
Saitō was very conscious that Hijikata-san, or Harada, would have handled things better. They would likely have been more reassuring or understanding… He decided to try again. After all, it was up to him to learn how to do these things and not make excuses.
"Kichirō-kun, I am telling you this because I may need your assistance and I believe that you may be willing and able to help me. I would prefer to trust you with the truth than to have you at my back uncertain of where your duty lies. I cannot command your obedience as I would one of my soldiers."
Kichirō was still frowning, but he was no longer staring at the ground and his posture seemed a little less pathetic. They were closer now to the wooden building that was clearly the dojo, and this time Saitō allowed him to stop and collect himself.
"I don't understand this business with Yukishima-sama and Kenshin and Amagiri," the boy muttered at last. He shot a sideways look at Saitō, taking in the man's alert stance and cool expression. For a long moment, he hovered on the edge of self-pity.
"You are almost a man," Saitō said calmly. "By the standards of both the humans and the Oni. I have told you everything I can within the time we have. Now you must decide what to do."
"It isn't that simple!" Kichirō cried. Then he winced—at his own behaviour—and drew a deep breath. "Gomenasai, Saitō-sama. Please overlook my outburst. I-I will do better. I can work with you to look after Chiharu and Sen-hime, and to do what I can for Kenshin."
Saitō nodded gravely at him, and would have spoken, but he sensed an unfamiliar presence and turned quickly toward the dojo, hand hovering near the hilt of his sword. There was a thin, black-haired boy standing in the open doorway staring at them. He looked younger than Kichirō.
"Who are you?" he demanded imperiously, both his face and voice reflecting irritation. "You disturbed my practice. If you don't have a good reason for being here then I will tell Mother that you bothered me and she will punish you."
Kichirō looked affronted and drew himself up to retort, but Saitō spoke first.
"Are you Yukishima Mamoru-san?" he asked, his expression scrupulously neutral.
"Who else would I be? Answer my question."
"This is Kazama Kichirō-sama, and I am his instructor, Saitō Hajime."
The dark-haired boy's attitude changed immediately.
"Kazama-sama. You are most welcome here. Are you visiting Mother?" He ignored Saitō completely.
Bewildered, Kichirō blinked a little and replied more formally than he usually would with a boy who was his junior in both age and rank.
"Ohayo gozaimasu, Yukishima-san. My sister is visiting your mother, along with Sen-hime. Your father directed us here so that we could train."
Mamoru-kun now looked sulky, Saitō thought. His opinion of Lady Yukishima was rapidly deteriorating, which he hadn't thought possible. The boy was extremely pretty, with his long black hair and pale, lilac-coloured eyes, but he was either very ill-mannered or not quite well in the head. Were they all insane?
"Mother says that Sen-hime will lead the Oni to ruin, just like Shizuka-hime. I don't want her here—she'll put Mother out of temper." He shivered slightly, which contrasted oddly with the blazing heat. "I don't like it when Mother is angry."
Neither of his visitors had any doubt of it. Kichirō was now staring at the boy with something like horror. Saitō's eyes had narrowed and his face was grim.
Just then, the back door of the house opened and Hideo-sama stepped out onto the engawa and put on a pair of sandals. He raised his hand in greeting and moved rapidly toward them across the back courtyard.
"Oh! Good morning again Father!" Mamoru called. "Did you send Kazama-sama to practice with me? That was very kind of you. Now that you are here, though, could you tell his instructor to leave? I don't think I like him much."
[II] - Confrontation: The Will of the Princess
Sen had looked around curiously upon entering the house. She had no clear memories of the place, which was peculiar when you realized that she had spent much of her childhood visiting her own family's estate on the other side of the village. On the other hand, now that she knew the whole history, she could understand why her mother's visits to Yase had become less and less frequent, and why Shizuka-hime had never allowed her daughter into Kimigiku's former home after the shinobi had come to live with them.
The young princess was glad that Chiharu was with her. Although Sen didn't underestimate her own abilities, it was a relief to have a friend there since she couldn't bring Kimigiku.
Hideo-sama told a servant to fetch tea and fruit, and another to wait on the honoured guests. Then he opened the door to Yukishima-sama's front reception room, saying:
"Chiyoko-sama. Sen-hime and Kazama Chiharu-sama are here to see you. I saw them coming in and brought them to you." The red-haired Oni bowed deeply to his lady as he ushered in the guests. "Unless you need me, I will return to Mamoru."
"You may go, Hideo-san."
The tone was indifferent, but Sen thought that there was something else under it—she sensed wariness and perhaps… sadness? It made her even more uneasy.
Yukishima Chiyoko-sama was a tall, graceful woman, with the black hair and purple eyes of her clan. She was unusually beautiful, even among the Oni and her own family. Her eyes were wide and brilliant, her hair was glossy and silky and smooth, and her skin was clear and soft. Not even the heavy, rather elaborate robes that she wore could entirely diminish the impact of a surprisingly sensual form. Sen found herself hurriedly readjusting her thoughts as elaborate courtesies were exchanged and the three women sat down to drink fresh tea. How could she have forgotten the impact that this woman could have in terms of both physical beauty and imposing will?
"You honour me with this visit, Osen-hime," murmured Chiyoko, as she sipped from her translucent china cup.
"I am pleased to be here," returned Sen, with equal sincerity. "I hope that you are well?"
"Yes, very well, Princess." Yukishima-sama turned her amethyst eyes to Chiharu. "And again, thank you for your visit, Kazama Chiharu-sama. You are even lovelier than the last time I saw you. But it has been many years, I'm afraid."
"It has been a long time," Chiharu agreed.
In fact, the last time that she had met the Lady of the Yukishima was at her father's funeral, when she was eleven. Yukishima Mamoru-kun, a shy boy of about five, had been there as well, and she remembered trying to lighten his unnatural, silent gravity, finding it oppressive in so young a child, especially one with no connection to the deceased.
"Mamoru-kun is nearly grown up now, of course," Chiyoko said, the comment echoing Chiharu's unspoken thought. "He will be a very handsome man, you know, and he has a quick mind."
Chiharu barely managed to retain her calm smile as half-remembered memories from childhood resurfaced. Her father had been discussing her marriage prospects with her mother, and Yukishima Mamoru-san had been his first choice for some reason. And… her mother had timidly mentioned that Yukimura now had a boy-child as well?
"How is Mamoru-kun?" asked Sen, allowing her irritation at being ignored to stiffen her resolve.
She had overcome her slight awe and fear now, and was remembering what this woman had done to her own daughters and grandson. The forgotten, striking resemblance to Kimigiku no longer confused her emotions but instead fueled her anger. Sen deftly wove command into the question and saw the cold, beautiful face turn to her immediately.
The flash of annoyance in Yukishima-sama's purple eyes was quickly veiled beneath long black lashes, but Sen sensed as well as saw it, and it cleared the last of her indecision. This woman, who should have been her most loyal protector, was far more foe than friend.
"As I was saying to Kazama-sama," Chiyoko said coldly, "my son is becoming a very handsome and talented young man."
"And how is your younger daughter?" Sen inquired with poisonous sweetness, her magenta eyes as cold as the older woman's voice. Chiharu was taken aback by the transformation in her cousin, having rarely seen the warm, passionate girl take on the role of Princess of the Oni.
"My daughter is fine. Chikame is learning her duties as Heir to the Yukishima."
"May she join us, please? I have not seen her in quite some time, and I thought she looked rather unwell on the last occasion."
"She was not unwell, Osen-hime. She was merely grieved—as we all were, of course—by the untimely death of your most respected mother."
It was intended to be hurtful, but Sen had expected the response and was well-aware that she had not seen Yukishima Chikame since her mother's funeral. She shook her head as though commiserating with her hostess.
"I can see that you share my concern for Chikame-sama's well-being, Yukishima-sama, and do not wish to embarrass her, but I am here in large part to see her. If she is not well enough for a formal visit, then I would be happy to go to her room now, to assure her that there is no need for any ceremony."
There was a tense silence. Yukishima-sama looked down again, as though disappointed by her Princess' rude insistence. Sen remained politely attentive, but she was subtly pushing harder against the other woman's poised control. After all, Yukishima Chiyoko owed her direct, absolute obedience. For the first time, Sen felt as though she could enforce it. There was a particular Gift that her line could use at need, and she had woven it into her light compulsion.
Chiharu watched both women with interest. Osen-chan was obviously in a very different position from her brother Chikage, who had no difficulty either demanding or receiving obedience from his vassals. Until now. While she was determined to sort out Kenshin's situation—despite her fear of losing her much loved youngest brother—she also had some sympathy for Chikage's situation. After all, if Amagiri had respected his lord's known wishes, rather than just the strict letter of the permission given to assist Osen-chan… No, that's not fair. Amagiri had no good choices. The Princess of the Oni wished the man saved. Also, Osen-chan knew what it would mean to Amagiri if he succeeded. There are no easy choices for any of us, including me, Chikage, and Kichirō. And what on earth will Kenshin do?
"Yukishima-sama," Chiharu said aloud, in carefully deferential tones, "my cousin is truly concerned for Chikame-sama. Are you sure that we cannot visit briefly with her? I would also be happy to make Mamoru-san's acquaintance again."
Yukishima-sama sighed deeply and spread her hands in apology.
"Sen-hime, Kazama-sama, my daughter is truly not in a position to receive you. Perhaps we could arrange a visit in a week's time? I believe—"
"No." Sen rose to her feet. "This is absurd, Yukishima-sama. All I wish is to see Chikame-sama, in order to confirm that she is well, or at least well enough. I have a duty to her personally to ensure her well-being, and I have a duty as Princess to ensure that your Heir is still fit for her position. Your obvious reluctance only makes me more uneasy."
"I… see. Then I suppose that I must tell you that—" Yukishima broke off as though suddenly discovering that she couldn't speak. Her eyes narrowed, and she rose to her feet as well, much taller and more physically imposing than Sen.
Chiharu continued to kneel calmly at the table, and sip her tea. Although her senses whispered of danger, she knew that her cousin had to handle this confrontation on her own. It was the way of power that sometimes it had to be tested and proven.
"Yes?" Sen asked in impatient, steely tones. "What is it that you must tell me? Where is your Heir, Yukishima-sama? Where is Kimigiku's sister?"
"How dare you speak that name?!" Yukishima snapped at her, eyes starting to lighten.
"How dare you disobey me?" Sen demanded in response, her own features unchanged. "My mother made a bargain with you at a time of terrible turmoil. By the time that she knew enough to question your behaviour more closely, she was no doubt concerned that somebody as unprincipled, as vindictive and as cruel as you are might target the last female heir to the Okikurune."
"Take care, Princess," snarled her alleged vassal, "you come very close to accusing me of treason. Do not speak of things you know nothing about."
Sen crossed her arms.
"Then where is your Heir?"
Once again, Yukishima-sama appeared to be stricken dumb. And her control was slipping. Chiharu was amazed: a sixteen-year-old, of whatever clan, should not be able to manipulate an experienced and (by all accounts) powerful clan head. It occurred to her a moment later that of course presumably the point was that the head of all Oni might be something more than a clan head. But Sen hadn't tried to force Chikage to change his behaviour. The fair-haired young woman finally rose to her feet as Yukishima-sama's eyes went golden and her hair bleached to silky white.
"Yukishima-sama," said Chiharu firmly. "Please just answer Sen-hime. You know that my own oaths require me to protect Her Highness if necessary."
"Leave this house. Even your sainted mother knew her role better than to interfere in purely family matters." Each word was ground out between gritted teeth.
Sen stood her ground.
"You have made it more than a family matter—and I'm not sure that I accept your version of my role anyway. My mother's place was not secure; after the Yukimura were massacred she had no powerful allies. She married my father for many reasons, not the least of which was to maintain a semblance of unity among the Oni. You should have been her advocate and protector, but as far as I can tell, your aims have been much more concerned with protecting the so-called purity and strength of your own bloodline."
"Do not underestimate me, Princess," warned Yukishima, hands curled tightly at her sides.
Chiharu began to assess the room in case she needed a more defensible position. She didn't plan to underestimate either party to the current conflict. As expected, Osen-chan ignored her adversary's warning.
"Yukishima Kameko was not your Heir at the time of your so-called family matters. Yukishima Chikame-sama is most certainly my business when I have cause to suspect that she may not be fit to be Heir. You have now tried to lie to me twice and your behaviour has made you open to the highest sanction. Kazama Chiharu-sama is witness to your willful disobedience, and your manifest fear of allowing me to even speak with Chikame-sama. This is not a request, it is an order: bring Chikame-sama to me now."
It seemed to Chiharu that Yukishima-sama became calmer as Osen-chan spoke.
"You have made yourself very clear, Osen-hime," said the older woman quietly, still very beautiful in her full Oni form. Four horns rose from her brow, clear and sharp. "You bring conflict and death upon the Oni and yet you call yourself our Princess. Your mother knew better than to seek chaos when she was too weak to enforce peace."
"You are wrong, and I am not weak," Sen responded flatly. "Do you forswear your oaths, then? I truly had not believed it of you."
Yukishima-sama bowed deeply.
"I will have my daughter brought down to you."
Chiharu sensed the first flicker of uncertainty from Osen-chan, and couldn't blame her. There seemed to be no reason for the sudden about-face. Except that maybe even Yukishima-sama wasn't quite prepared to defy a direct order in front of a witness she truly didn't want to antagonize. But surely the woman already knew that she'd gone too far? If Sen-hime, Lady of Yase and Kyoto, allowed such insults to her authority to pass without some kind of punishment, it would seriously undermine her authority.
Their hostess resumed her usual appearance as she crossed to the door. Sliding it open, she spoke rapidly to the waiting servant.
"Please go to Masaru-sama and ask him to bring Chikame-sama to me. Tell him that Sen-hime commands my daughter's attendance. Do you understand?"
The woman bowed and hurried away. Chiharu sensed fear from her and… reluctance? To do what?
"My brother is always very reluctant to allow his niece to miss her lessons," Yukishima said to Sen, by way of explanation.
Sen eyed her warily, but she could sense nothing. Yukishima-sama was completely shut off to her, which was hardly surprising. It made Sen uneasy, because she hadn't actually expected to have to push so hard to be allowed to see Chikame-sama. She had been forced to go farther than she had wanted, although she had made sure to know ahead of time just how far she was prepared to go. In particular, Sen had hoped not to invoke her special Gift preventing any of the sworn bloodlines from lying to her; it was an impressive display of power, and useful, but it was more taxing than the Gifts that relied on Body, Soul and Mind alone.
The truth was that Sen hadn't fully appreciated how … strange… Yukishima-sama might be. It forced her to realize that perhaps Kimigiku had spoken no more than the truth when she had said that nobody had ever really believed what life had been like within the Yukishima estate.
"I will admire your garden while we wait," Sen told her hostess, moving to the window so that she could look out into the garden as a polite excuse not to sit down.
"As you wish, Princess. It will not be long."
Chiharu felt a strange sense of unreality. There was something wrong. She was sure that her cousin knew it as well, but… they were confined by custom and politeness. Besides, she could not imagine that Yukishima-sama would do anything to jeopardize whatever relationship she had with the Kazama.
Eventually, there was a murmur of voices outside the door, and a polite "excuse me" in a man's voice. The man who entered was only slightly known to either of the visitors, but he was clearly Yukishima Masaru-sama, as his resemblance to his sister was almost uncanny. He also greatly resembled Hijikata-san of the Shinsengumi, but Chiharu put that thought firmly from her mind as irrelevant. Like his sister, Masaru-sama looked only a little older than Kimigiku, but Chiharu knew that the siblings must be close to seventy. A single streak of white stood out in Masaru-sama's hair, which was pulled back into a severe ponytail.
Behind him was Chikame-sama, and Chiharu did not wonder that Osen-chan was visibly shocked. The woman was Kimigiku's identical twin, but very thin, and her eyes were lifeless. Chikame-sama observed the visitors without interest; in fact, Chiharu wasn't sure that she saw them at all. Apart from a deep bow to her mother, she stood docilely in the doorway in perfect silence until her uncle addressed her.
"Chikame-chan, please greet Sen-hime and Kazama-sama. They are here to see to you."
The empty eyes turned toward them. There might have been recognition; it was very hard to say. Try as she might, Chiharu could sense nothing from the woman. She was not guarded, exactly; rather, she seemed absent.
"Good morning, Sen-hime. It is a pleasure to see you again." Both younger women were startled to hear such a sweet, musical voice—very like Kimigiku's when she was in her role as a geiko. The voice had far more personality than Chikame-sama's tone and expression. "Good morning, Kazama-sama—it is Kazama Chiharu-sama, is it not? I do not think we have ever had much opportunity to speak together."
The greetings were conventional, straightforward, even pleasant. It was truly bizarre.
Sen-hime stepped away from the window, returning Chikame-sama's bow. Somewhat reluctantly, nerves completely on edge, Chiharu followed suit.
"Chikame-sama," said Sen, "I will not keep you too long from your studies. Please forgive me for the intrusion, but it has been so long since I have seen you. I was concerned for your well-being. How are you?"
"I am quite well, Sen-hime," replied Chikame immediately. The normal voice and emotionless face presented a very disconcerting appearance, and Chiharu drew away a little. "I regret that you were worried for me."
"I see," said Sen, and Chiharu's eyes widened at the cold tone. "Allow me to rephrase that question."
The Princess seemed to consider both Yukishima-sama and her brother for a moment. Then she shrugged and murmured "so be it". It made Chiharu very nervous.
Sen-hime closed the distance between herself and Chikame-sama and stared directly into the lusterless amethyst eyes.
"How are you, Yukishima Kameko-san? Answer me truthfully."
The question, charged with Soul and Coercion magic, and something that Chiharu didn't recognize, reverberated loudly in the room and also in the heads of all present. The thin, pale face contorted and for just a moment the eyes were alive—and full of a misery so profound that Chiharu felt it like a physical blow.
"Let me die! Princess! For the love of my sister let me die!" It came out as a rising scream, and ended on a note of pure agony that caused every person present other than Sen to stagger back with their hands to their ears.
"No," said Sen. "But I will save you."
There was a second—not more—of absolute stillness, and then Chikame-sama fainted and all hell broke loose.
[III] - Husband and Father
In the Yukishima dojo—or rather just outside it—Saitō was listening to a very strange confession and a plea for help. Upon his arrival, Hideo-sama had promised his son that he would speak with "the instructor", and had invited Kichirō-kun to use whatever equipment he wished. Kichirō had been more than a little confused about what was going on, but at Saitō's brief nod he had stripped off his sandals and light sleeveless jacket and gone into the dojo to train.
Saitō's initial reaction had not been friendly when the tall Oni had joined him in front of the dojo. He had not been happy with Hideo-sama's intrusion into his mind earlier or about the Oni's obvious knowledge about his background and current situation. But Amagiri's uncle had ignored his coldness and his posture and had literally begged to be heard. It had shaken the Shinsengumi captain enough that he had agreed to listen.
"We may not have much time," Hideo told him bluntly. "If Sen-hime is anything like her ancestors—and I believe that she is—then my wife will finally find herself pressed to the danger point. The only thing that will delay her is the presence of Kazama-sama. But even that may not be enough."
"You believe that Yukishima-sama may attack Sen-hime and Kazama-sama?" Saitou asked neutrally.
"Yes. My wife is no longer stable, and believes herself to be nearly invincible. Unfortunately, that belief does make her stronger. You must understand me: I love my wife; I have always loved my wife. Moreover, I owe her my loyalty and obedience, and I do not take those vows lightly. I stood by—I acquiesced by default—when she broke Kameko's heart and exiled Kimiko. I will not make excuses now. But you have seen my son, the child of a final attempt on my wife's part to have another daughter, and I will not stand by a third time."
"Then why didn't you speak with Sen-hime sooner?" demanded Saitō curtly.
"I tried to do so immediately after Shizuka-hime's funeral. My wife discovered my intent and she has prevented me from leaving this estate ever since. You may not know this, but any promise, any personal oath, makes coercion much easier—ah, by magical means."
"That is logical."
"Similarly, I have not been allowed to speak with anyone outside my wife's influence during those two years. I have waited here, watching for Sen-hime or anyone truly loyal to her to be close enough and strong enough to help me."
"What is it that you want?"
A look of incredible sadness passed over the distinctive Amagiri features. Saitō had to suddenly blink back tears, as the man's naked despair was almost overwhelming in intensity. His hand went to his sword out of pure shock.
"I have heard of you, Saitō Hajime of the Shinsengumi. If you are here then it is likely that you have decided that she must die. My nephew has probably told you not to take on such a burden. Kyūju-kun was dear to me once, and I recognize his imprint on you—that is why I call you kin. For his sake, and for yours, please let me deliver this blow. And… also for the sake of your wife, the last of the Yukimura. My mother was of that clan."
"I… What do you mean?" Disconcerted a second time, nerves on edge, Saitō could feel the beginnings of the transformation to Oni form.
"It will not be long now. I will go with you. You will need my help. But do not take the final blow on yourself. Fight my wife, protect the Princess and Kazama-sama… but let me be the one to deliver death. It will be better for everyone, I swear it."
Inexplicably, Saitō's tension kept mounting, and he suddenly realized that something, somewhere, was going very badly wrong. He shifted to Oni form and stepped quickly away from Hideo-sama, senses somehow hyper-aware. The other man had also changed, and suddenly the two adolescent Oni inside the dojo came running out.
Mamoru-kun's eyes were golden, but otherwise both boys were still in human form.
"Mother!" cried the younger boy, a sword held in a white-knuckled grip.
"Saitō-sama—what is it?!" shouted Kichiro, his own katana in his hand.
Then they all heard it, echoing and re-echoing in their minds and even, though faintly, in their ears:
"Let me die!"
Hideo-sama grasped his son, before the boy could run past. For a moment, they swayed together, but the father's strength was easily the greater. When Mamoru-kun stopped moving, his father kissed him gently on the forehead. Whatever he said then was not said aloud. Then the red-haired Oni spun away and was gone.
Saitō had already left, but his parting words to Kichiro-kun had been quite different from whatever Hideo-sama might have said to his son: "Keep the boy here—he is in your care. Do whatever you have to do. Do not kill him."
"Saitō-sama?!"
Bewildered, and a little frightened, Kichiro nevertheless turned to follow orders. As the adult Oni disappeared inside, and Mamoru's sword came up in a defiant arc, the young swordsman blocked the incoming blow, smashed a punishing fist into the other boy's face and tackled him to the ground. It was going to be an interesting challenge, but Kichiro was determined to be the victor. For some reason, he wanted to prove himself worthy of Saitou-sama's trust.
[END]
A/Note: I promise to update as soon as possible. In the meantime, I wish all my readers the best, especially those who do not share the Christmas/New Year's holiday season and may not have time off coming up (for myself, I can't wait for the break next week). Thank you for reading and for your comments and reviews.