Author's Note: Welcome back to The Teachings of Demons!
I hope that you enjoy this last chapter before Saito and Kazama collide. Or, possibly, politely discuss the weather and then return to their own preferred activities.
With many, many thanks to all of you who have waited patiently, or at least loyally, for this chapter.
Special thanks to: Shell-Senji, DancesWithSeatbelts (Nalufever), HakuYamazakiSensei, Eliz1369, and Sabinasanfanfic on tumblr for supporting my writing endeavours through thick and thin. There are so many others as well, but it's time to publish this chapter!
Shout out also to my Dad, who has been waiting (not very patiently at all) for this chapter (and the next one). Seriously though, I have a great Dad.
Go Kichiro! Er, you'll see.
~ Impracticaldemon
Chapter 91—A Tale of Two Kazama(s)
Chizuru wasn't happy that Saitō might run into Kazama-san again. Despite every effort to get over what had happened at the Ikedaya, his manifest ruthlessness had made her very afraid of the Lord of the Western Clans. Nevertheless, she knew that Saitō was doing the right thing—of course!—and it was part of her duties as his wife not to hold him back in such a matter. Amagiri-san had suffered more than enough, and on top of that, she'd given her word to help Osen-chan and Haru-chan with Kenshin-kun's situation.
For his part, Saitō was confused. He'd expected protests and objections from Chizuru, and had been met with acceptance. Once her one great fear—a prolonged separation—had been dealt with, she had unhesitatingly agreed to visit her cousin in the afternoon and then stay at her uncle's overnight along with Sen-hime. Saitō knew that she was afraid for him, and would have much preferred to go with him, but she was determined to let him do what had to be done. She was trying her best to meet his need for her—and the babies, whispered a small voice in his mind—to stay safe. And why did he feel so… emotional… over that? There was something about the very wholehearted way in which she'd accepted becoming a wife and mother that sometimes overwhelmed him. How many sixteen-year-old girls in her situation—surrounded by the Shinsengumi and crushed by the news about Yukimura Kōdō—could even come close to her strength and resilience?
They were having a cup of tea with Sen-hime now, at the princess' request. Saitō had been concerned about the time, at first, but it had quickly become clear that this was a strategy meeting. If nothing else, Yukishima Kimiko-sama was there, which was the first time that Saitō had seen Sen-hime's mentor and protector in some time. He wondered if she would help or hinder the discussion. Kazama Chiharu-sama was also present, though not her younger brother.
"Thank you for meeting with me before you decide how best to undertake your proposed venture," Sen opened, after she and Chiharu had poured and served the tea.
"Of course, Sen-hime." Saitō relaxed fractionally, although he was still wary of the various interests represented in the room.
"First, let me assure you that it will not take long to complete the ritual affirming Amagiri Kyūjyu's fealty to you as his immediate lord. It is helpful that Chizuru-chan is here as well. I can proceed as soon as this discussion is over. Is that satisfactory?"
"Yes. Arigatou gozaimasu, Sen-hime." Amagiri had already told Saitō that this was what he wanted; there was no need to ask again.
Not having been told about this part of Saitō's discussion with Amagiri, Chizuru was somewhat taken aback. Saitō saw her quick glance at him, and sensed her puzzlement, although she said nothing. He hadn't thought it necessary to mention the matter, but now he saw that he'd let his discomfort with Amagiri serving as his vassal override good judgment. In fact, not only should he have told Chizuru as a matter of courtesy, but because it affected her directly as heir-apparent to the position of Lady of the East. He would apologize to Chizuru after this meeting.
Sen-hime nodded to Saitō as though she hadn't noticed Chizuru's reaction—unlikely!—and proceeded immediately to the heart of things.
"Kimiko is here partly on behalf of her sister, Yukishima Kameko-sama, and partly to assure you that she and my uncle will make Chizuru-chan's safety their first priority while you are away. As you know, Kameko-san is Kenshin-kun's mother. As Kimiko has already passed along to Amagiri, Kameko-san agrees that Kenshin should be recovered as soon as possible from the Kazama clan, now that Amagiri has been banished."
Saitō nodded. He could easily sense Chizuru beside him, quietly processing all the information, and he could tell she was frowning, probably concerned about how the key principals—Kameko-sama and Amagiri—would cope after Kenshin was returned to them. It was an excellent question, but Saitō wondered if there were even time for discussion. He had to travel three hundred miles within the next twenty-two hours, and while it was theoretically possible, Amagiri had warned him that it would be more tiring than he'd expect, despite his previous success with Fast Travel. Cumulative fatigue plus—in Amagiri's opinion—Saitō had been in a hurry to get to Amagiri when he was hurt, whereas Saitō had a strong personal disinclination to deal with the elder members of the Kazama Clan just now.
"For the present, my sister accepts that Kenshin-kun will be more at ease with Amagiri-san and Haru-chan than with her." Kimiko shot an unusually troubled look at Amagiri. "This situation is… stressful for her… as you can imagine."
"It must be very hard," Chiharu put in sympathetically. "She—and Amagiri—will have the best support I can give." Chiharu had clearly put aside her personal feelings about having her youngest brother removed from her immediate family; there was no trace of self-pity or anxiety in her voice, expression, or demeanour. Saitō could tell that Chizuru was very impressed with the older girl, and he silently endorsed her admiration, to the extent that he had any focus to spare.
"Thank you Haru-chan. You are as lovely as ever. I wish—" Kimiko trailed off, and Saitō had the strangest idea that Sen-hime had restrained her next comment in some way. Probably something to do with Kazama Chikage. If so, then his own sympathy lay with Kimiko-sama.
"We all wish things were different, Okiku," Sen said gently, using the name she had used for the other woman throughout most of her—Sen's—life. "For now, will you lend your aid to Saitō-san? I know that you'll be happy to have Chizuru-chan and I visiting"—Sen flashed her irrepressible grin at Chizuru, who shyly responded in kind—"but if there's anything else that he should know, then now's the time."
Kimiko inclined her head to Saitō and then surprised him with a wry smile.
"Thank you for doing this, Saitō-san. I wish that I could be there to assist you, but I know that my current role is as clan head, sister, and protector. Sen-hime and Chizuru-sama will have all my care and attention."
Saitō bowed politely. He reminded himself that Kimiko-sama had been guarding Sen-hime practically since birth, with obvious success. He was also inclined to be reassured by the fact that the deaths of the former Lord Kazama and that man's brother—Sen-hime's father—were probably directly connected to the shinobi. He had not missed the inferences in various conversations over the past week regarding the two Kazama men.
"Well then, that's settled. As long as you're still comfortable with the arrangements, Chizuru-chan?" Sen looked mischievous for a moment. "You can see that we're all trying very hard not to… to ruffle your husband's feelings! But please let me know if you have concerns with the arrangements. Beyond your natural concern for Saitō-san, of course."
"Thank you Osen-chan." Chizuru was doing a very credible job of being as calm as either Sen-hime or Chiharu-sama. "I'm looking forward to spending more time with you, and Kimiko-sama, and my uncle. I know that Hajime-san will do whatever needs to be done and return safely." The pride in her voice when she spoke of Saitō was unmasked, and it was a testimony to the extreme control of every other person present that nobody laughed—though the laughter would have been of the kindest sort.
"Now, Saitō-san," continued Sen, "Haru-chan is here to ask you—to persuade you—to let her accompany you. I hope you will hear her out."
"Of course, Sen-hime. Chiharu-sama?" Saitō had expected this, although he didn't like it. He knew that Amagiri shared his concerns, but Amagiri had also said that the young woman's points were worthy of serious consideration. Not that Saitō would do otherwise. He was rarely dismissive of anyone, although he could make up his mind very quickly, if necessary.
"The more I think about how my mother and my brother"—no need to say which brother!—"will react to the proposal to return Kenshin to Amagiri-san, the more concerned I become." Chiharu met Saitō's eyes for a moment before politely looking down again. "My mother is in very poor health, and has been for almost twenty years. I can persuade her to let Kenshin come with me to Sen-hime's with much less stress than would be caused by a stranger—an unknown Oni lord!—showing up unescorted with the same basic goal. I am also asking for Kenshin's sake. He is a curious, courageous child, but he will not go willingly with a stranger—nor would any of us want him to."
She waited for Saitō to indicate his understanding, before coming to the final matter that worried her. He nodded neutrally, and that would have to be good enough.
"My eldest brother is always very careful of my mother's health. I doubt he has visited her since—since parting ways with Amagiri-san. At the same time, he has almost certainly been keeping an eye on her from a distance. That kind of thing is not his strength, compared with Sen-hime—or myself—but he is quite capable of observing our own summer home, with which he is intimately familiar. If he notices anything amiss, or arrives while you are there, then I fear that he may react with violence."
Saitō felt his expression slip from his control. He was unable to fully control his thought that an opportunity to fight Kazama Chikage would not be unwelcome. Nobody commented—aloud.
It would be unwise for you to fight Kazama-sama until you are more settled in your skills and Gifts. Your reaction is understandable, but it would best to avoid any serious conflict at this time. Amagiri, of course.
You have my sincere sympathy on this point, Saitō-sama. Kimiko-sama. Her clear personal dislike of Kazama was a greater balm to Saitō's unsettled emotions than Amagiri's advice.
"How will your presence help matters, Chiharu-sama?" Saitō asked at last. His first reaction was fading rapidly, and he glanced briefly at Chizuru. His wife—my wife, growled some fierce inner voice—smiled gently at him, and it made him realize that not only had Chizuru quickly concealed her own emotions at the reference to Kazama Chikage, but she was helping Saitō to let go of his own uselessly aggressive response.
"My presence will help in the ways I've already mentioned—with Mother and Kenshin—and I may be able to defuse any violence that arises."
"How? If your brother offers violence, and you step between us, he is likely to be very angry with you. Could he not simply order you—or force you—to remove yourself from the conflict? And I expect you would be required to remain with Lady Kazama after that."
Saitō managed not to add his other problem with the idea—that he did not wish to be in a position where Chizuru would want him to rescue her friend. The situation was volatile enough without him challenging Kazama Chikage over his sister (which he had neither right nor desire to do).
"I understand the risks, Saitō-sama." Chiharu's back was already ramrod straight, but seemed to straighten further. "And if Chikage-sama orders me home—or to remain at home—then I will abide by his decision. Believe it or not, my first concern is for Kenshin, and a promise I've made. Besides, while Amagiri-san didn't mention it, you will have difficulty reaching our home at all without a guide. Perhaps he intended to go with you part-way, but it would be much faster with me. Fast travel is much less taxing if you know exactly where you are going—and if you aren't trying to fight wards to get there. I'm sure that Onii-sama has strengthened them since I left."
There was a deep quiet. Saitō found it odd that nobody spoke, as they would if he were at a meeting among the Shinsengumi leaders and captains. Then it dawned on him that these people—even more than other Oni, perhaps—felt no need to press him. They were all fully-trained in their Gifts of Mind and Soul, and had already decided to trust his ability to weigh the situation impartially and make an informed decision. If Sen-hime felt that his decision risked (greater) conflict between the Oni clans, then she might interfere, but for now, everyone had said what they needed to say. For a moment, Saitō wished that Hijikata-san could be there to see what a perfectly efficient meeting looked like.
"In your opinion, Chiharu-sama, my venture will be more difficult and take longer without you?"
"Yes, Saitō-sama. And I maintain that there is a greater risk of unnecessary bloodshed. I do not intend any disrespect to you, nor do I deny your skill. However, it would be better for everyone concerned, especially Kenshin, if there were as little drama as possible."
Saitō weighed Chiharu-sama's words, still not comfortable with the plan, but seeing the benefits. Reluctantly.
Well, dear one? You have stake in this as well.
Chizuru was a little surprised by his question, however vague.
… I believe in you, Hajime. You will take Haru-chan with you, rescue Kenshin, make sure that Lady Kazama isn't harmed, and… and TRY not to fight with HIM. I hope you won't. And then you'll come back to me and—
Chizuru broke off abruptly, but Saitō finished for her.
The babies. I know. So—nothing much then?
That's right. Just do everything perfectly and come home safe. Please. The hint of humour in her mental "voice" gave way to something much too serious for either of them to express further with others present.
"Very well, Chiharu-sama," Saitō said aloud, "I will accept your offer of assistance. However—"
There was a flurry of movement, and then Saitō—Why him again?, Chiharu sighed to herself—roughly deposited a rather red-faced Kazama Kichirō in front of Sen. The young Oni had just burst into the room radiating anger. It was surprising, and a credit to his determination, that he didn't collapse under the sheer disapproval levelled at him. They had all—except for Chizuru, who had been working very hard on shielding her own unruly emotions—noticed him eavesdropping from behind the closed door panels; however, it had taken even Amagiri some time to do so, at which point it seemed best not to interrupt the proceedings.
"You c-can't let my sister go, Saitō-sama, you can't! And how dare you not talk to me about this, Haru-chan!"
Chiharu flushed. She had told her brother about Kenshin… just not about the likelihood that Saitō might go and fetch him today. "It's my decision to make, Kichirō!" she snapped, knowing herself to be in the wrong just a moment later.
"No, it's not! Not alone, at any rate! I am not a child—I'll be sixteen at the New Year, and I'll be ready to pass my third Trial before that. I know that eavesdropping is rude, but when you all decide to treat me as though I'm ten years old—like Kenshin—what am I supposed to do? I'll bet that S-Saitō-sama was considered an adult at fifteen!"
The magnitude of his poor behaviour in shouting at his sister, especially in front of Amagiri-san, and Kimigiku-san—her correct name and title escaped him—and Chizuru-sama suddenly overcame Kichirō, and he clamped his teeth tightly together and bowed to his cousin Sen-hime. It was not a very deferential bow; he would have been very surprised just how much he resembled his elder brother at that moment. Kichirō would admit to poor manners, but not fault.
Amagiri continued to look unimpressed, but said nothing. The whole meeting—the whole day—was taxing him on a level that he hadn't fully anticipated. Chiharu just seemed stunned. Kimiko had the blank-faced look she got when trying very hard not to laugh, but only Sen fully recognized it for what it was. The situation was anything but funny, and the gods only knew whether her sister and younger brother would ever recover from their mother's tyranny, but something in Kichirō's open defiance resonated with her. Maybe it had to do with looking after Sen-hime for so many years.
"Do you wish to contribute to this discussion? I have very little time." And none to waste on histrionics.
Saitō's voice was perfectly level, but a little grim. He was still standing behind Kichirō, arms folded and brows drawn together. Chizuru was suddenly reminded of Hijikata-san, and the realization made her blink. Mind you, Saitō-san was very handsome when he was angry. Then she remembered Harada-san's comment about how she always called him Saitō-san when she was worried.
"Kichirō-kun? If you have a suggestion, please tell us." Everyone looked at Chizuru in surprise, but the tension in the room seemed to calm noticeably.
Kichirō, for his own part, had gone from righteous indignation to deep embarrassment. There was just something so appealing about Chizuru-sama. She wasn't exactly beautiful in the same way as Haru-chan, or Kimigiku-san, and she wasn't as vivacious and fun as Osen-chan, but he thought she was just lovely.
"Kichirō-kun?" It was Osen-chan, and she sounded both amused and a little warning.
Kichirō immediately became aware of a certain… impatient… Oni lord behind him.
"Ah, sumimasen, Saitō-sama!" Kichirō turned and bowed—in quite a dignified way, he thought—to the man behind him. As he raised his head, he glimpsed the gold in Saitō-sama's eyes, and rapidly decided that his cousin's warning had been apt. Fortunately for Kichirō, Saitō's control was good enough to prevent the younger Kazama—though not his sister—from reading just how close he'd come to disaster. His resemblance to his older brother was exceedingly unfortunate at times like this.
The indigo-haired man just looked at Kichirō, obviously waiting for him to say something pertinent.
"There is no reason for Nee-san to go with you, Saitō-sama. I will go with you."
"Oh?" It was a discouraging monosyllable, but Kichirō persisted, even though he could pretty much hear his sister gritting her teeth behind him.
"I won't slow you down as long as you control the actual Fast Travel. Also, I know our home just as well as my sister, for purposes of finding the location quickly and without hindrance from any wards. Most importantly"—Kichirō steeled himself to say the words as firmly as possible, despite keenly-felt disappointment—"I am perfectly prepared to remain with my mother once we arrive. I understand the importance of all this to Amagiri-san—and to Kenshin!—and to, um, Kimigiku-san's sister. I can help. I can tell Chikage-sama with perfect truth that I came here with Haru-chan in order to keep her safe, but I couldn't sit by and watch her undertake a dangerous trip with a—forgive me—mostly unknown man. To the best of my knowledge and belief, Haru-chan wishes to remain here to look after Osen-chan—to help her out I mean! I just… I just think that even if Nii-sama is angry with me, he will be pleased that I returned, to stay, of my own volition."
It was a long speech, but Kichirō could feel Saitō-sama's coiled anger abate even before he concluded. Amagiri was still a blank, but he rather thought that Kimigiku-san, and Osen-chan, and Chiziru-chan—she'd told him to call her that before!—were somewhat impressed. His sister was a knot of emotions that he couldn't piece together. This time, he kept his attention firmly fixed on Saitō-sama.
"I would prefer not to risk your sister," Saitō told him. When Chiharu tried to interject, he glanced over at her and added: "I do not doubt your ability, Chiharu-sama. Moreover, I expect that you would handle the situation with your mother and Kenshin-kun in a more"—his eyes slid to Kichirō—"disciplined fashion." His gaze returned to Chiharu. "However, I cannot imagine any scenario in which your eldest brother would permit you to return to Kyoto. I judge that your liberty is far more at risk than Kichirō-kun's well-being. Are you so eager to jeopardize your ability to assist Sen-hime and Kimiko-sama? You have also made a bargain with Hijikata-san, one that benefits all parties."
Kichirō fidgeted slightly, but his voice was perfectly calm when he summed up Saitō's points by shrugging and telling his sister, "I'm more expendable, Haru-chan."
"No!" Chiharu would have leapt to her feet, but something in Saitō-sama's icy expression kept her seated. It reminded her so much of Chikage that she felt an actual shiver of recognition. Empathy and warmth flowed over her from the other women present. At the same time, she sensed grudging—and very reluctant—agreement from Osen-chan and Kimiko. Only Chizuru seemed to fully agree with her that Kichirō could never be expendable.
Before anybody else could speak, Saitō recalled Kichirō's attention. "There is no need for melodrama, Kichirō-kun. You are less needed in Kyoto than Chiharu-sama at this time, and you have no specific obligations to remain. Your sister needs to stay here, if possible. That is all."
"Agreed." Amagiri finally broke his silence. "Kichirō-kun. You have made a commendable decision to protect your sister's best interests, and Sen-hime's, despite the personal cost. We are aware that you would rather stay in Kyoto. Do not undermine the value of your offer by grieving your sister—as well as Sen-hime and Chizuru-sama—with intemperate language."
Chizuru had to bite her lower lip to keep from protesting Amagiri-san's uncompromising words—and those of her beloved husband. Saitō-san's eyes immediately fastened on her, and it became difficult not to look down. The usual calm dark blue was flickering with gold again, probably because of the way that Kichirō-kun's bald statement had—admittedly—distressed her.
Chizuru. The voice in her mind was calm, much calmer than the eyes would suggest. I understand that Kichirō has a 'good heart', as you call it, as well as courage. But he has been too sheltered and lacks discipline. I need him focused on what lies ahead of us, and he tends to be… fanciful.
… Yes, Hajime.
… Hmm.
I think I understand. Truly.
They had reached something of an impasse, but Chizuru was prepared to defer to Hajime's assessment, under the circumstances. Despite the look in his eyes. Her own experience with teenage boys was extremely limited, after all. Saitō had to trust the sword at his back, and thought that Kichirō-kun might either buckle, or over-compensate, if faced with his elder brother. If Hajime's methods seemed rough, he was confident that they would work. Also, Amagiri-san had agreed with Hajime's comments, although Amagiri's remarks had been a little more balanced.
But… I suppose I'm fanciful too. The thought escaped her control.
Perhaps. But you have different goals than Kichirō. He seems like a boy to you, but he wishes to be a warrior. He all but killed three men on his way to Kyoto, mostly because he wished to test his blade. One of them may have died. He is a male Oni of the Kazama main line. His path is not yours.
Oh…
Dear one, I do not wish you to stop being… fanciful. There was a kind of desperation in Saitō's tone now. He could hear it himself. Chizuru immediately understood the problem. He found it difficult to be both warrior and husband at times like this, and he was dangerously on edge.
Sumimasen, Hajime. You are trying to do a difficult job, and now you are worried about my feelings as well. Saitō was momentarily overcome by a wave of fierce love and determination. It shocked him out of the dangerous frustration that had been building. Chizuru saw him blink; saw that the dark blue was once more untrammeled by gold. All would be well. She believed in him.
Meanwhile, Kichirō looked first stunned, then hurt, then thoughtful. Despite wounded dignity, and a (dissipating) sense of under-appreciated self-sacrifice, he took the time to control his temper, knowing that control was what Amagiri-san—and Saitō-sama—would value most.
"Kichirō," Chiharu said into the brief silence, "you are not expendable. And I am better able to reason with Onii-sama."
"Haru-chan?" Kimiko's voice was low and soothing. "Your brother has made some cogent points. Of course he isn't expendable, but for Sen-hime's sake—and your own—his proposal is worth consideration. Besides, we agreed before this meeting not to drag matters out. Saitō-sama is worried about the time, and that is most understandable."
"But—"
"I know, Haru-chan. But we agreed." Sen gently squeezed one of Chiharu's hands. It was impossible to guess what she thought of Kichirō's forceful interruption of their proceedings. Her mind was well-guarded, and Chiharu was once again reminded that the Princess of the Oni might be young, but she was powerful, and she was a clan head. One forgot the latter point at one's peril.
"Kichirō wasn't supposed to—"
"Nevertheless."
Which a wrenching effort, Chiharu got her anxiety and frustration under control. This allowed her to better evaluate the reactions of the others in the room, not to mention Kichirō's insane offer. Offer. Ruefully, she gave herself a mental-emotional shake. What would Hijikata-san do? she asked herself, not without a large measure of irritated amusement at the passing thought. Swear, probably, she answered herself. The thought was oddly calming—which was in itself disconcerting.
"As you say, Osen-chan." Chiharu inclined her head respectfully to her cousin, and turned her full attention to Saitō-sama and her annoying—and much-loved—younger brother.
"You can rely on me, Saitō-sama," Kichirō said at just that moment. His tone was cool, but contained. "Moreover, while my sister may be better-suited to dealing with our older brother, he is an honourable lord and—if he is present, and Kenshin's situation is made clear to him—he will not be unfair. However, we are trained from birth to keep our womenfolk safe at all times. You are right that if Haru-chan goes home, she will not be allowed to leave again anytime soon."
"I believe this to be the best option, Saitō," murmured Amagiri in his deep rumble.
Saitō nodded to his mentor—soon to be his officially sworn liegeman.
"I am not comfortable with this solution," said Chiharu. "However, I will abide by Saitō-sama's decision. Thank you for your kindness, Kichirō. I can perceive that there are good reasons for me to remain in Kyoto."
"I know that my sister would prefer Haru-chan to be there in case of any problems," commented Kimiko. "She—Kameko—is very worried about her son. However, I have confidence that Kichirō-kun will be an excellent emissary to Kenshin-kun, and will deal honourably with Saitō-sama."
Some of the others could dimly sense an unspoken conversation between Kimiko and Amagiri, but neither of them changed expression, or allowed their feelings to escape their control. Saitō planned to try one more time to get a straight answer from Amagiri concerning his current relationship with Kameko-sama. It could wait for a few more minutes.
"Kichirō-kun? Do you have any other comments?" Saitō's expression remained forbidding, but far less menacing. Everyone present except Kichirō attributed the change to Chizuru-chan's influence, and thanked her for it.
"No Saitō-sama." Like Saitō, Kichirō was still standing. He was a few inches taller, and already a little broader across the shoulders, than the Shinsengumi captain, but there was no doubt which one was the Oni lord. Kichirō himself was especially aware of the difference in power and skill. After all, he'd grown up with the sensation. Kichirō bowed again, less ironically, ruthlessly suppressing the pang to his ego.
"Thank you for all your counsel—Sen-hime, Kimiko-sama, Chiharu-sama, Kichirō-sama, Amagiri-san." Saitō gave Kichirō his proper title, as a measure of respect. He trusted Chizuru to know that he valued all that she had done as well. Her face and eyes were serene, which was the greatest gift she could give him just now. "I will accept Kichirō-sama's offer to accompany me." His eyes met Chiharu's, but she only inclined her head in resignation. "Please guard Chizuru in my place, Sen-hime, Kimiko-sama." He took Amagiri's protection for granted, and neither man was wont to waste unnecessary words.
"I will look in on you from time-to-time, with Haru-chan's aid," was Sen's only comment. She had been much quieter than usual throughout the meeting, but Saitō put this down to the urgency of the situation, and Sen-hime's ability to switch to her princess persona as necessary. Besides, she was a leader with a powerful vassal on the brink of outright rebellion, and nobody really knew how Kazama Chikage would react to the news about Kenshin.
"Arigatou gozaimasu, Hime-sama. If we are now done, I suggest that Amagiri-san complete his oath of fealty."
"We are done. Would you like the others to remain for the ritual? They are all of a rank to bear witness."
Saitō suddenly wished that Hijikata-san were there. It was a futile thought, but it was as though he craved the presence of somebody who would find the whole thing as bizarre as he did. Even Chizuru now seemed to be taking the idea in stride…
It is what he wants, Hajime. That's all.
… Chizuru?
Well, you were thinking at me. Chizuru sounded a little defensive, but there was also the tiniest hint of satisfaction. Gods help him! And yet, Saitō smiled inwardly.
You are right, Chizuru. It is what he wants, and I owe him my life. In more ways than just the first and most obvious. Saitō wasn't sure where the last part came from. Maybe he was picking up Kichirō's—or his wife's!—flair for the dramatic. The thought was unnerving.
"We have visitors," announced Sen. The smile that brightened her face told everyone—including Chizuru and Kichirō—exactly who to expect. "They'll be here in about five minutes or so. So, Saitō-san? Amagiri-san?"
Neither man replied at first, and then they spoke together.
"It does not matter."
"Whatever you think is best."
"Well then, we might as well observe the formalities. Blood has already been spilled for the lord, in my estimation, and the lord has already accepted responsibility for the life of the vassal. The intent is clear. A simple oath before witnesses suffice. "By the way, Saitō-san, did you know that Hijikata-san and Yamazaki-san were going to accompany Harada-san this afternoon?"
Saitō's eyes widened perceptibly. "No, Sen-hime." Hijikata-san had intended to stay as uninvolved and unaware as possible.
"Hnh." That was Amagiri, who seemed pleased with the turn of events.
Just ten minutes later, Hijikata, Harada, and Yamazaki were seated in the reception room. The room finally looked a little less oversized. Sen had brought the Shinsengumi men up to speed on the situation, by saying that Saitō was heading out shortly on clan business with Kichirō-kun, and would they care to be witnesses at a ceremony of allegiance? Not even Saitō could criticize her efficiency.
Hijikata's expression was that of the overly-burdened man that he was. That said, he greeted everyone—even Kimiko—smoothly, and by name. Kichirō looked momentarily as though he'd renege on his offer to go with Saitō, but he kept his lips and mind tightly closed.
"So Kichirō-kun's going along to keep you out of trouble, Saitō? Interesting. Try not to trip him up."
"Yes, Vice Commander," responded the Third Division Captain a little woodenly.
"Not that I know what you're talking about, of course." Hijikata's thin smile didn't reach his purple eyes. "Chiharu-sama, I came by in part to find out if our bargain still held."
"Yes, Hijikata-san." Chiharu was completely herself again, at least to outward appearances.
"Good, then if you have some time now—after Saitō heads out for his walk—then I can give you a short lesson while Amagiri is working with Harada. In return, I'd like you to compress everything you know about mind-reading—including defense—into the shortest lesson possible."
"I… Yes, that should be possible, Vice Commander. Who do you wish me to train?"
"Me. I need to keep better track of my subordinates."
Chiharu hesitated, and then nodded. She was puzzled, but it would keep her mind occupied, and it wouldn't be a bad thing to change into hakama just in case things went wrong for Saitō-sama and Kichirō.
"Amagiri-san. Do you mind working with Yamazaki as well as Harada? He can be a difficult student, but I know you'll find a way to curb his tendency to chatter unnecessarily."
Hijikata-san is in one of his fey moods, thought Saitō. Then again, he's short of sleep, short-staffed, and… worried about me?
Of course he is, Amagiri told him sharply. Your brothers are good men—in their way. There was no need for Amagiri to add "for humans".
The matter of the ochimizu still lay heavy between Amagiri and the Shinsengumi, Saitō realized. The edges on Hijikata's smile could cut glass. And yet… they were all here for him. It was a very, very strange realization.
Saitō greeted Harada silently. It was a relief to exchange a purely straightforward Hi, good to see you're still alive and not crazy—Yes, so far so good. Harada was slightly apprehensive about training with Amagiri, but he was also glad to see Sen-hime. It registered with Saitō as a brightness in his comrade that seemed to extend toward the Oni princess. He hadn't noticed it before. Had he been preoccupied, or was it Sen-hime and Harada's relationship that had changed? Chizuru was pleased about it, but Saitō foresaw more problems for the Oni and the Shinsengumi.
Not long afterward, Sen-hime and Chizuru (in her capacity as Heir Apparent to the Duchy of the East) officially witnessed Amagiri's oath of allegiance to Saitō. The others watched in silent interest. For the Oni, it was a strangely troubling moment. It was the first time since Suzuka Gozen's rule that an Oni born and bred had sworn a vow of service to a man who had once been human. The fact that it was Amagiri just made the moment more profound, somehow. Even Kichirō was affected; his young face was solemn, and his ruby eyes a little shadowed.
Amagiri spoke his part without hesitation, as soon as he and Saitō were kneeling across from each other in front of Sen and Chizuru. As Sen explained later to Chiharu, she'd never heard the words of the oath of fealty used within the Western Clans. It was enlightening, and provided a new perspective on the anger and grief of her cousin Kazama Chikage.
"I am Amagiri Kyūjyu, formerly of the Amagiri Clan and the Clans of the West. I give my feal service to Sakurai Saitō Hajime, Lord of the Sakurai and vassal and husband of Yukimura Chizuru-sama, Heir Apparent to the rule of the Eastern Clans. I swear to serve him with honour until death, and pledge mind, body, and Gifts to his cause. My mind to advise him, my body to shield him, my Gifts to protect him and the heirs of his line."
Amagiri concluded by bowing prostrate, forehead pressed to the floor. Saitō regarded him steadily, face and eyes utterly expressionless. Not even Sen-hime could guess what was in his mind, for all of her exceptional talent and training. The room was completely silent.
"I will not accept the oath of a desperate man." The words were ice-rimed steel, cold and hard. "You grieve a past lord, one who still lives. Meet my eyes and tell me again that you wish to pledge your life to me in this fashion. Kazama Chikage deemed you foresworn—an oath breaker. Are you truly able to set that aside?"
Amagiri raised his head, and met Saitō's eyes as ordered.
"My grief is natural and will pass. For you, who are already my kin, and for the future of my son, I can set aside the knowledge of my dishonour and face a new life. You know that I wish this."
Saitō closed his eyes, but otherwise remained motionless. Against all convention, Chizuru reached forward and took her husband's hand.
Hajime?
He saved my life when he owed me nothing. How can I repay that if I accept such a vow?
Chizuru knew that he knew the answer. Since she didn't understand all the nuances, her reply was simple.
You are brave enough to do anything. Also… this burden isn't yours alone.
I… know.
Saitō opened his eyes and faced his would-be vassal. He didn't want to be anyone's lord, but he needed to get over that—again. For the last time.
"I accept your oath, Amagiri Kyūjyu-san. From today forward, you and yours are mine to rule and to protect. I will honour your loyal service."
Chizuru was glad, for Saitō's sake, that the words used by the Eastern Clans—or at least the Okikurune—were so much simpler and less weighted. Or maybe they weren't, but they felt friendlier to her.
"Witnessed." Sen's tone was brisk, and she nodded to each man in turn. "And now you can move on to the rest of your busy day, Saitō-san." To Chizuru, it felt as though the room itself suddenly brightened.
Hijikata-san was looking a little grim—to the extent one could tell—and Yamazaki was reasonably expressionless, but clearly trying to assimilate what had just happened. Harada-san's expression was much more like his immediate superior's, which was unusual. He managed a more relaxed expression once he realized that Osen-chan was looking at him.
Saitō touched Chizuru's arm, and she allowed him to help her to her feet, though it wasn't strictly necessary.
"Sen-hime," he said to the princess, "I need to speak with Amagiri—and Kichirō-kun. Then Kichirō-kun and I need to take our leave."
"Of course, Saitō-san. Since your Vice-Commander technically doesn't know you're here, or what you're doing, there is nobody to prevent your departure."
After that, things moved much faster. In the end, only Saitō, Chizuru, and Kichirō remained in the reception room. Noticing this, Kichirō said that he would wait for Saitō-sama on the engawa, and left rather precipitously.
"He's still afraid of you," murmured Chizuru.
"He is trying to be tactful."
Saitō wrapped his arms around his wife, and she clung to him in return. He could feel the shape and warmth of her body even through the layers of kimono, and his mind immediately turned to other thoughts. Mechanically, he shunted them away. They were both nervous about being apart, he realized, and for a moment he cursed his weakness.
Images, some charming, many sensual, teased at his mind—he realized that some were Chizuru's, some his own. He slid his hand up along Chizuru's neck and suckled slowly on her earlobe, then traced the tip of her ear with his tongue. Her breath came a little faster, and he could see that her cheeks were very red. When she tipped back her head, he kissed her from her collarbone to her lips, his body demanding more. At some point, he realized with a start that he had backed her into a wall, and was now kissing her passionately, claiming her mouth with tongue and teeth, his body pressed so tightly against hers that she couldn't possibly move.
When his hands reached for the collar of her kimono, eager to stroke and tease the soft breasts beneath, it was Chizuru who finally recalled him to their surroundings—Sen-hime's reception chamber, to be precise.
Hajime! I… I don't think this is a good idea.
Appalled and bewildered, Saitō pushed himself away, turning from Chizuru and trying desperately to regain his senses. Love and lust both burned in his veins.
"Sumimasen! I don't know—"
"It was my fault, " said Chizuru in a small voice behind him. "I was trying to cheer myself up by thinking of nice things, only…"
"My head is spinning, Chizuru, and I ache for you. You have destroyed my control. I was going to—"
"I know, I know, I'm sorry!"
He suddenly realized that she was in tears, and it gave him enough space to force both mind and body into some semblance of order. He was still afraid to touch her, however.
"Please… please don't cry. It was just a distraction. A pleasant distraction, that's all." If I keep telling myself that, maybe I'll believe it.
Chizuru was drying her eyes with quick, jerky movements. She gave him a brave smile, but the easy banter of those with more experience, or less serious minds, was beyond her reach.
"Just come back to me safely," she finally told him.
"I promise."
"I'll just go to our room now."
"Īe, no matter what, I demand a kiss."
"B-but, Hajime!"
She was torn between love and disappointment when he pressed a very soft kiss to her cheek, and then walked resolutely to the door.
"Be safe, dear one."
"Yes, Hajime."
"Don't go out alone. Or at all, except to get to your uncle's. Do you understand? Not even in daylight."
"Yes, Hajime."
"No rescuing people. Don't exhaust yourself. Especially, don't exhaust yourself by accidentally healing others. Or on purpose."
"Yes, Hajime."
He felt safe enough now to turn back for a last kiss, this time on her lips.
"I'll be back as soon as I can."
"I know."
He squeezed her hand, and then finally made it through the door. Kazama Kichirō waited for him in the garden below the engawa, staring moodily at the flowerbeds. Saitō could only hope that this trip would improve their acquaintance.
"Saitō-sama!" To Saitō's relief, Kichirō's expression cleared immediately upon his arrival.
"Kichirō-kun. You will both guide and follow. Do you understand? You must give me the sense of where to go, but allow me to conduct the Fast Travel. When we are closer, you will provide more precise directions." Amagiri had explained it to Saitō. It required light mental contact between Saitō and Kichirō, but no more.
"I understand." Kichirō's ruby eyes sparkled with determination. His natural optimism was slowly reasserting itself.
Saitō was satisfied with what he saw. He touched his right hand to the hilts of the swords at his side—he had brought the Sakurai blades this time, wary of carrying anything less into the den of his enemies. Even if one of those "enemies" was his companion and guide.
He extended the lightest of mental touches, and found it readily accepted. The world was a complicated place.
"Arigatou, Kichirō-kun. Ikuzo."
"Hai!"
END