Chapter 31. Preparation against the impossible

In the days that followed Kenshin tested the internal ki-enhancement trick while he did his kata. He needed to find out what was causing his sudden headache; was it truly caused by using too much ki, or because of shabby control?

However, despite some trying, he couldn't figure out much.

It could be both or neither.

As a matter of fact, the only thing he learned from these experiments was that if he used ki for too long, pain would flare just behind his eyes. It was a sharp, stabbing sensation that would scramble his sight and balance, and stir unrelenting nausea at the pit of his stomach… and if he continued using ki regardless? Then bright or colorful spots would bloom in front of his field of vision and stay there for hours.

Sure, Kenshin would be the first person to admit that it would be dangerous if any of these things happened to him in the middle of a fight, but the thing was… he didn't have the faintest idea of what to do about it. Well, except train more, but then again, training for no other reason than to cause himself inevitable pain seemed pointless. He would figure out a solution to this little problem someday. Of course he would, but for the moment, it just didn't seem very essential. If he kept his ki usage brief and killed his targets quickly, then it wasn't a problem, now was it? And if nothing else, he had always been fast.

Unfortunately, Ito-san's report to Katsura-san had included all the details of the incident… even details Kenshin wasn't sure his leader necessarily needed to know, and as a result, Katsura-san had become worried. Katsura-san had even suggested that he should take some time off to figure out a solution, or even seek outside advice about his dilemma. Katsura-san theorized that there might be someone, perhaps an older, more experienced swordsman or monk who would have some idea about ki-related trouble.

However, despite the good intentions behind the suggestion… Kenshin dismissed his leader's concerns as best he could. Even as a child, his way of using ki had been unique. Even Master had never truly understood it. And if his Master, the one person in the world who knew more about Hiten Mitsurugi than Kenshin, had let him figure out internal ki-enhancement by himself, what were the chances that someone who used ki for an entirely different purpose would have any advice for him?

Besides, Kenshin could figure out a solution to this alone. It was just a matter of time and dedication. It would have been easier if he had Kenta to rely on… but that help was out of his reach forever. There was no point in wondering about the impossible. So what if he had a tiny problem? So did everyone else! Their trouble just didn't include a matter so obscure that most people thought it belonged to the realm of fairy-tales and myths.

Katsura-san finally accepted his point of view, and let the matter rest. They had more pressing concerns now that they had received news of Takasugi-san's victory in Choshuu's civil war. After all, everyone knew that the Bakufu couldn't let such a threat to their power stand – it was only a matter of when and how they would respond.

On the sixth day of the third month, the Bakufu announced that it would be marching to Choshuu to take control of the province by force, if the rebellious activities didn't cease at once.

The threat of war made Katsura-san extremely worried.

Kenshin didn't have any trouble understanding why. The Bakufu had the public's support and the loyalty of a majority of provinces… if given enough time, they could gather an army hundreds of thousands of men strong. What could a lone Choshuu do against such force?

That day, it truly felt like the rebellion was doomed.

However, a couple weeks after that announcement, Katsura-san received a request for a meeting in a neutral location from one Sakamoto Ryoma, a lower ranked samurai from Tosa.

Understably, Katsura-san was puzzled, but in the end, he agreed to the meeting. Apparently, he knew this fellow from his youth in Edo. Back then, he had even crossed blades with this Sakamoto-san in a sparring match.

It didn't sound like the worst possible basis for meeting someone, but it wasn't the best either. After all, Sakamoto-san hadn't divulged why he wanted to meet Katsura-san out of the blue. Kenshin couldn't help but be wary when they finally met this fairly young, friendly, and outspoken samurai. Despite his open manners, the swords Sakamoto-san carried were not there merely for decoration. Every motion he made, how he stood and walked – hell, even his firm, strong ki screamed experience with swordsmanship.

That is not a good sign… what if he is an assassin? Kenshin frowned, suspiciously trailing his fingers over his own blade.

Sakamoto-san noted his presence with a thin smile, but didn't comment on it. Instead, he turned to address Katsura-san with boisterous cheer, "So Kido-san, I hear you and the Choshuu Ishin Shishi have some trouble coming your way."

"True enough," agreed Katsura-san non-noncommittally.

Sakamoto-san wasn't deterred by the cold welcome. "Well, then I better get straight to the point, shouldn't I? I remember you as a level-headed analyst. So, what would you say Choshuu needs to be able to win this upcoming conflict?

"Many things," Katsura-san frowned thoughtfully. "Public support, a stronger army… and influence that could reduce the Bakufu's forces."

Sakamoto-san grinned. "I cannot help you with the public, or with the politics. I hear that's more your area anyways. You are a clever and ruthless politician; you know where and when to push to make the weaker domains back away from this mess." The samurai rubbed his chin slowly, his eyes glimmering with shrewd intelligence. "But just like you said, Choshuu needs a stronger army. I understand that your friend Takasugi-san has made some advances on that front, equipping his troops with western weapons and discipline… even if he has had some troubles with the supply."

Katsura-san raised his brow, but didn't say more.

The thing was, even Kenshin had heard of Takasugi-san's trouble purchasing Western weaponry for the Kiheitai. In Choshuu, many despised foreigners and that widespread, antagonistic attitude had gained them a bad reputation among Western traders. This was a long standing issue, especially now that it was becoming clear that Western weaponry was the key to evening the odds against the Bakufu's greater numbers. As unfortunate as it was, Choshuu was a lone wolf without support. If they couldn't get enough men, they needed a stronger army.

So why had Sakamoto-san brought up this sore point?

He can't claim to have a solution, or could he? Kenshin narrowed his eyes, curious despite himself.

Sakamoto-san seemed to be entirely unconcerned by their scrutiny. He puffed at his nails in an outrageously pleased gesture, before looking up and suggesting lightly, "It is indeed a dilemma, but what if… I could arrange a meeting for you, with someone who has the necessary trade contacts with the West?"

"I would be happy to participate in such a meeting." Katsura-san allowed, but his expression was carefully schooled in neutrality.

It raised chills on Kenshin's skin. Why was Katsura-san so hesitant? Why was Sakamoto-san even circling around the issue like this?

"Of course you are. That's what I was counting on." Sakamoto-san nodded. "But would that still be the case… if there was some bad blood between you and the other party?"

Katsura-san paused, the fingers of his left hand's curling into a fist on his knees. It was a subtle gesture, one that Kenshin had noticed his leader made only when he was truly vexed. Then Katsura-san inclined his head, "Yes. Even if they were my worst enemies, for this matter… I would be willing to negotiate."

"I knew it. Kido-san, you truly are a remarkable man! " Sakamoto-san let out a hearty laugh, all the tension bleeding out of his shoulders as he grinned, "Let's say, next month… the tenth, in Kisshoin Ishihara?"

"That is doable," Katsura-san agreed. "How many guest are you bringing?"

"Myself and two others."

"Then… I would like to bring my bodyguard to even the numbers, as it were," Katsura-san demanded calmly.

Kenshin blinked, somewhat taken aback. What was this about? He had never heard Katsura-san make such a demand. Even when surrounded by stark opposition, Katsura-san never seemed to lose his cool, so this demand was… strange, to say the least. Except if, well, if there was some bad blood between the participants, the situation could become dangerous enough to merit a bodyguard. After all, quite a few samurai exhibited volatile tempers, and Katsura-san wouldn't draw his sword.

"Your man…can he keep his calm?" Sakamoto-san glanced at Kenshin thoughtfully, before turning back to Katsura-san. "Even if there is a promise of mutual benefit and a shared enemy, this will be a difficult negotiation. One of the men in question has a temper and he can lash out harshly. I know you, Kido-san. You have thick skin and you can handle a fair amount of malice, but..."

"I trust Himura-san with my life," Katsura-san announced firmly, then grabbed his sword and rose to stand. "I'll look forward to your confirmation about the date."

And that was that.

However, as they made their way back to their lodgings, Kenshin couldn't help but wonder. Why had Sakamoto-san been so doubtful? Why had Katsura-san been so hesitant? Why was there even a need for a middle man to arrange this meeting? It was a negotiation for a trade agreement, not a peace treaty between warring states!

But then again, while trade with Western countries wasn't exactly rare, as Western merchants were fairly obvious about their interest in Japanese arts and crafts, and Japanese were likewise asking for Western goods… their weaponry was an entirely different sort of matter, dangerous and volatile. And not only because it was distinctly illegal.

No, Western weaponry had the power to change everything. The power balance between provinces, the delicate deadlock of peace that the Bakufu struggled to keep with the West… everything. It was no small thing that Sakamoto-san was suggesting, but who could claim to have such a dangerous thing to offer? And at what price?

The list of potential candidates was terribly short, but it was someone powerful and dangerous for sure.

Choshuu had countless enemies among the other domains. Their home province's radical ways had distanced them, and the Hamaguri gate incident had blackened their reputation through hell and back… especially the pure madness that was the fire that had burned down half of Kyoto.

Choshuu had dearly paid for those mistakes.

When Kenshin had returned to Kyoto, he had heard that the Bakufu's victory at the Hamaguri gate had been largely due to the forces from Aizu and men of those two provinces had spilled the most rebel blood, and their actions had turned the tide of battle and lead to the rebel's crushing defeat. In particular, Satsuma's field guns had wreaked havoc on that day.

Out of all of Choshuu's enemies, Aizu and Satsuma were two of the most dangerous. Aizu was a province from the north that had supported the Shogun since the very beginning of Tokugawa's reign, raining down hell on their enemies… and Satsuma, well, everyone knew they hated Choshuu with a passion, born from grudges, bad blood, and age old feuds between rival southwestern provinces.

Kenshin sighed.

Just thinking about Choshuu's enemies was dampening the small bit of hope he had managed to drag forth. The situation truly was bleak and if something didn't change, and soon, then had this whole rebellion been for nothing? Was their dream for the new era truly doomed?

He glanced at Katsura-san, walking by his side. Even now, Katsura-san looked pensive, like he too was unsettled by the implications.

Yet, no matter what… they couldn't let the opportunity that Sakamoto-san had offered pass them by.

What would it matter which of their enemies they would need to negotiate with? If the discussion turned violent, he would be there to protect Katsura-san. Anything else, well… Katsura-san was a brilliant politician and an expert negotiator. Even with his swords tied in peace-knots, he was a very dangerous man. He never lost his calm, his charismatic manners – a quality which made him very hard to read.

To be perfectly honest, if Kenshin hadn't known his leader as well as he did, he would have found it difficult to trust him. For those who could read ki, Katsura-san just radiated a certain two-faced feel, a glaring discontent between his outer expressions and his inner thoughts. But then again, all good swordsmen could keep their calm. And politicians too, for that matter. It was why Katsura-san was the leader of the Choshuu Ishin Shishi and what had allowed him to grab control back after his return from disgrace.

…The only way forward for us, is to keep going and never look back.

Whatever it takes, no matter how difficult it is… I can't give up hope. Kenshin thought, looking at Katsura-san's wide back. Yes, for the new era. For the better world, I have to keep fightingjust like Katsura-san does.


After that meeting, Kenshin did a few small skirmish jobs, very similar to the first one they had staged with the Mimawarigumi, and Kyoto's rumor mill was finally picking up on it.

"Hitokiri Battousai is back!"

"The murderer looms once more in Kyoto's streets!"

"Even the police patrols aren't safe!"

The gossip buzzed through the streets and for Kenshin, it felt just as terrible as it had the first time. What made it worse, in a way, was that he had given those Mimawarigumi and Shinsengumi patrols a chance to escape… and not one of them had taken it. They had all kept coming at him no matter his words or warnings, and he had cut them down as easily as a patch of grass. Once more, he was nothing but a bloodthirsty murderer.

For the Ishin Shishi though, the rumors had inspired an entirely different reaction. Whenever Kenshin accompanied Katsura-san to meetings, the rebels no longer openly doubted his capabilities, or glared at him in suspicion. No, their glances become thoughtful, even curious. Clearly, his description was being circulated among their comrades.

It was all according to Katsura-san's plan. They wanted to use Hitokiri Battousai's fame to boost morale among the men.

However, for the public, Hitokiri Battousai was just as mysterious and terrifying a figure as he had always been. They didn't know anything about him; not his name, not what he looked like, nothing but the fact that he often used battoujutsu in his kills.

It was quite perplexing.

If the Ishin Shishi wanted to make Hitokiri Battousai a legend to be feared, wouldn't it make sense to let the men gossip and let the rumors spread freely? Kenshin asked Katsura-san about the reason for secrecy, but his leader only said that it wasn't necessary to leak out his description outside of their own. It would only cause him trouble later on. Katsura-san even suggested he wear a hat or a scarf to conceal his features, if he intended to keep giving his targets the chance to retreat. Loyalty among the rebels could protect his identity to a point, but his enemies wouldn't have any compunctions about spreading his description. And given his somewhat distinctive red hair and the large, cross-shaped scar marring his face… what would he do if it became widely known what Hitokiri Battousai looked like?

Truthfully, Kenshin hadn't ever thought about it before; but if he became known as Battousai, could he go into town any more? Could he visit her grave and bring her flowers? Could he wander the streets, find solace in the anonymity of crowds? Not without hiding his hair and face, and even then, whispers and stares would follow him.

Kenshin had always hated to be noticed. In his youth, he had hated it with a vehement passion… but she hadn't minded his looks. She hadn't cared that he was ugly and strange. She had accepted him as he was.

And the fact was, he didn't want to kill any more than was necessary.

So if people could recognize him as Hitokiri Battousai, maybe his targets would realize how futile attacking him was and they would choose to escape?

Katsura-san didn't seem happy about his reasoning, but let the matter drop… until one night, he took Kenshin with him to one place he hadn't ever planned to visit: the famous Gion, the artistic quarter of Kyoto. The company of beautiful Geiko and Maiko was a privilege the wealthy enjoyed, and personally, Kenshin hadn't ever even considered spending his money in such a manner.

However, so far his duty as Katsura-san's bodyguard had lead him to various new locations, from fancy and fine homes to outright disgusting hidey holes. So all together, a teahouse in Gion wasn't that strange. They would meet Katsura-san's colleagues and then be on their way to the next meeting like always, Kenshin surmised glumly. However, instead of the loud and boisterous company of other rebels, they were lead to a private room where a lovely Geiko awaited them.

Her name was Ikumatsu and Katsura-san introduced her as his lover and trusted friend. Apparently, she had helped Katsura-san disappear after the Hamaguri gate disaster.

As befitting of her status, Ikumatsu wore a rich, intricately embroidered kimono. Her face was painted white, her teeth blackened as was proper, and her hair was arranged masterfully, not a strand out of place. Every detail of her appearance was refined to the point of perfection, every one of her gestures and motions was elegant and graceful… in short, she was a strikingly beautiful woman, nothing less than a true lady.

Utterly befuddled by the turn of events, Kenshin somehow managed to fumble through the introductions, as well as the light, casual conversation and the multiple course dinner that followed.

Katsura-san and Lady Ikumatsu didn't seem to mind his awkwardness, instead they kept trying to invite him into their light toned conversations, no matter how curt his answers were.

What was going on here?

Wasn't this just Katsura-san enjoying a relaxing night with his lady? But if so, why was he here? Surely his presence wasn't needed in a meeting of this nature? Kenshin averted his gaze awkwardly, feeling more and more out of place by the moment.

They had finished most of their dinner and only a few desserts were left on their trays as well as plenty of good sake. Lady Ikumatsu had taken out her three-stringed Shamisen and began entertaining them with a pleasant song.

For some reason, watching Lady Ikumatsu… it reminded Kenshin painfully of Tomoe. They didn't look alike, not really. Tomoe had been more natural in her beauty, cool and collected in her expressions. Lady Ikumatsu was older, relaxed, entirely at ease in her role, almost seductive with her faint smiles, knowing glances, how she tilted her head to display her neck or wrist just enough to catch wandering eyes. But her grace and her refined mannerism, how she held herself, how she spoke…

…It's just like Tomoe. Kenshin looked aside, hiding his eyes behind his long, ragged bangs. The sudden reminder was so strong that it pierced through the numbness he had drawn around himself, making his heart ache anew. It was difficult to breathe beneath the tide of emotions.

Kenshin took a deep breath, and exhaled slowly. It didn't help. Nothing ever did, but he kept at it still, trying his best to ignore the music, the song, the presences nearby. Anything to keep the wounds in his heart from tearing open again. He was so tired of hurting all the time. He didn't want to remember now, not when he had drunk sake for the first time in months out of polite necessity and when Katsura-san was there, just a few steps from him.

"Please, dear Kido-san, would you leave us alone for a moment? I should like to discuss a sensitive matter with your friend." The melodic voice pulled Kenshin quite abruptly from his thoughts.

"Of course, if you so wish," allowed Katsura-san, grabbing his sword and rising to stand.

Instantly Kenshin tensed, ready to rise as well, but Katsura-san made a stopping motion with his hand. "No, I believe I can handle myself. Please, the lady wishes to converse with you."

"But, but…" Kenshin gaped, utterly surprised.

Katsura-san smiled. "It's fine. I will wait downstairs. We will leave when you are done." And then, Katsura-san inclined his head to Lady Ikumatsu and left.

Kenshin didn't have any idea what was going on. He was just a bodyguard, not anyone important… why would Lady Ikumatsu have anything to say to him? And why would Katsura-san leave them alone? Weren't they lovers? This was so far beyond propriety that it wasn't even funny! Shivers raced down his spine and he tensed, feeling very unsure all of a sudden. It felt like the mere knowledge that he was alone with a lady was crawling under his skin, scraping uncomfortably against all the defenses he had drawn around himself to cope with his grief.

Finally, he hesitantly glanced up through his lashes. Lady Ikumatsu was kneeling in seiza, just a few feet across from him… and she seemed thoughtful.

"Dear Kido-san mentioned to me that he is going to promote the name Battousai."

"O…" Kenshin gaped, his mouth falling open in surprise. "Er..." What? That was not what he had assumed this was about! He swallowed dryly, struggling to collect his thoughts, but in the end, he couldn't manage a more coherent reply than a single nod.

Lady Ikumatsu smiled. "You are certainly not what I was expecting! But yes, I think I know now what dear Kido-san means." She smiled again, tilting her head in curiosity. Her eyes grew softer, but somehow more intent. "Fame is a tricky thing, Himura-san. Have you thought about what it will mean, if you let your face became known?"

Kenshin narrowed his eyes. "Yes."

"Hmm, perhaps you have." Lady Ikumatsu hummed and gave him a pointed look. "So, you do realize that soon you will not be able to go outside without fear of recognition, nor meet new people and converse with them without them having a prejudiced view of you?"

She meant well, but of course Kenshin had realized the implications. He wasn't stupid. But the thing was, he had always been the subject of stares… and now, they just didn't matter enough to him.

Maybe his expression reflected his thoughts, because she didn't wait for an answer before continuing. "I see." She frowned. "If this scheme dear Kido-san is proposing comes to fruition, then the Ishin Shishi will try to spread the name Battousai far and wide. It won't just be people here in Capital who hear of it… the stories will spread to provinces, to the countryside, to recruit men willing to fight for the cause. Everyone will have a chance to hear of this Battousai. What will become of him later, if it's known that he has unusual features that cannot be easily concealed?"

She spoke the truth, but…

Kenshin closed his eyes and clenched his hands in the fine silk of his hakama. Breathing deeply, he tried to collect his resolve. "This unworthy one is aware of all this. It's the truth, so it is. However, if this unworthy one's appearance is recognizable, then maybe his opponents will take the chance to flee."

"So, to avoid unnecessary death… it's a worthy idea," Lady Ikumatsu allowed. "But would a samurai abandon the fight, turn coward?"

"If the threat is clear enough, if the fight is hopeless… this unworthy one wishes that they would," Kenshin whispered.

Lady Ikumatsu frowned. "Himura-san, you do realize that most of the Bakufu's troops award such cowardice with death?"

The words struck deep, trampling all his hesitant hopes to the ground. Kenshin's eyes widened in realization. He had, in fact, heard of such a decree among the Shinsengumi. But what if that troop wasn't the only one? What then? Were his hesitant hopes nothing but a naive dream?

No.

Kenshin gritted his teeth and exhaled slowly.

No, it wasn't impossible. He had seen even the most fearless of ronin flee from his Master. Even if most of the swordsmen in Kyoto were samurai, not masterless ronin who had lost their honor… they were simply men. When faced with true terror, all men would flee, no matter the punishment their own would deliver for it. After all, they didn't have to return, they could choose to save themselves and flee from Kyoto entirely.

Yes, even for such a small hope… I will do it. Kenshin resolved. It didn't matter how difficult or troublesome the consequences would be for him, because, "Even if just one life is spared, it is reason enough."

Dead silence followed his words.

Then, after a moment's pause, Lady Ikumatsu inclined her head respectfully. "Then I will request dear Kido-san to allow it. You have decided and that is enough. Now though… you look weary and I hear that you have recently lost your wife."

Kenshin looked aside. He didn't want to talk about this. Tomoe and all the memories they had together, those were his. It wasn't her place to pry.

"Please, Himura-san. Grief does terrible things to men. It isn't good to bear such pain alone," Lady Ikumatsu murmured soothingly. "Perhaps it would ease your heart to talk?"

Anger stirred inside him. Why did she have to insist? Couldn't she take the hint? Kenshin gritted his teeth, suddenly furious. Red hot rage, the very same that had spurred him into vicious stupidity against the Yaminobu, was stirring inside him. His ki flared and started to rise, almost sharp enough to cleave through the mats and delicate paper walls…

No!

No, I can't!

Lady Ikumatsu was Katsura-san's lady. He couldn't lash out, not at her… so Kenshin clenched his hands on his hakama with enough force to turn his knuckles white and tried to keep breathing, in and out, in and out, just to gather himself enough to drive away his anger.

...Yes, just like that.

Inhale and exhale. Inhale and exhale.

Then it was over, just as suddenly as it had begun. The veil of numbness settled in place like it had never left, burying his volatile emotions under it. Finally, Kenshin dared a covert look at her between his lashes. Lady Ikumatsu had a concerned look on her face, but not a flick of fear. Her brown eyes were warm. The tiny flicker that was her ki was small and soft. She didn't look like Tomoe anymore. Instead, she looked almost maternal?

…Like she really just wants to help.

And Kenshin felt ashamed. Without his rage distorting his thoughts, her intentions were clear enough. She wanted to help, to offer comfort and ease his pain… and still, he had almost lashed out at her.

Something thick and awkward was lodged in his throat and he looked to his lap, feeling heat rising on his cheeks. Slowly, her released his fingers from the much abused silk of his hakama and tried to smooth it awkwardly. "I, ah… I… This one doesn't know what to tell to you."

"I never had the chance to meet your lady wife, but I have heard good things about her," she said gently. "So please, tell me about her."

Maybe he did owe something to this woman, but… Tomoe had been his everything. But just once, if talking about her could help ease the hurt, the pain inside him... to talk about her beauty, gentleness, kindness, her joy of simple things, the love between them…

A faint hiccup rose up from his chest. He had loved her so much. He had loved her with all his heart and now, everything connected to her hurt. He had been harboring this pain within him, ever since she died. Not even once had he managed to ease it, not one bit – only numb it by shrouding it behind Kenta's numbness like the miserable coward he was.

If it would help to talk… then yes. He could talk about her, just this once. He wetted his lips and started, "Tomoe, well – from our first meeting she was…"


After a good start, the work to raise Hitokiri Battousai's terrible fame suffered numerous set-backs. In retrospect, it was easy to see why. After they had lost a few of their patrols in such a manner, both the Shinsengumi and Mimawarigumi had become wary. They had doubled their patrol sizes and altered their patrol routes and schedules entirely. Even anonymous tips about rebel locations weren't good enough to lure them out into a carefully prepared trap. In short, they had become very unpredictable and as such, far more dangerous.

True, morale among the Ishin Shishi was on the rise... clear proof of how bad things had been after the Ikeda-ya and Hamagumi gate. However, how long could that last with this uneasy ceasefire, the calm before the storm that things had settled into?

It was quite maddening.

Kenshin had been sent to guard fake meetings, pretended to escort valuable names, or waited in ambush at certain safer locations they suspected the patrols would visit, but nothing came of it. Either the policing force's patrols didn't take the bait, or they took the bait en masse. As strong as Hiten Mitsurugi was, even Kenshin didn't dare risk going it alone against two squadrons of armed men, at least not so close to city center if he had a choice in the matter.

The public had noticed a certain wariness in how the policing troops were acting and as a result, the rumors of Hitokiri Battousai become more and more outrageous, some of them had even developed a certain, err… supernatural tint; the red hair, even the cross branded on his face, what if it meant that Battousai was a demon?

Of course, most people dismissed those rumors as wildly exaggerated, superstitious nonsense… but word was spreading, and slowly but surely turning the tale of a skilled, brutally efficient swordsman into something more.

To be perfectly honest, Kenshin didn't know what to think of the demon thing. In a weird, backwards way, he even found it amusing. He had always been noticed as strange and different. Most of the time the strange had been the label "foreigner," but in his youth, in the rural countryside, some had also called him a "demon" or a "ghost." Of course those comments had been derisive instead of fearful, but there had always been a hesitance about the unknown tainting people's opinion of him.

Now, for the first time… Maybe it was worth the hardship? If only because it should encourage his targets to flee rather than fight.

The flip side of the coin, however, was already starting to bother Kenshin. When he had visited the town to buy early spring flowers for Tomoe, he had noticed the second looks that people gave him, especially his distinctive red hair. The looks hadn't lead to anything more than whispers behind his back, but it was worrying him. He wanted to bring continue bringing fresh flowers for her. He wanted to visit her grave. He wasn't going to give up either of those routines, not for the sake of avoiding troublesome encounters.

On the tenth day of the fourth month, Kenshin and Katsura-san finally headed to the mysterious meeting that Sakamoto-san had so carefully arranged.

The meeting was held in central Kyoto, in a quiet inn near the river. It was some miles distance from the busier market and entertainment districts, in the heart of the residential areas. While neither the Shinsengumi nor Mimawarigumi patrolled there often, Katsura-san had still decided that they should dress in discreet, plain styles and walk there. After all, if things went south, the last thing they wanted was to be noticed this far away from the closest friendly hideout.

Ever since the Bakufu's public announcement of war against seditious Choshuu, tempers were tight and trust was running thin. It was difficult to rely on informants or supporters, when they had to suspect turncoats and traitors all the time.

When it came to the war itself, well… In Katsura-san's opinion, the whole thing was nothing more than a clever display of tactics. Bakufu hadn't even started to gather their troops; instead, they were waiting to see if the threat of war against an overwhelming enemy would be enough to stop the rebellion in Choshuu.

Against a less determined opponent it could have worked, but for Katsura-san and Takasugi-san, war was inevitable. They weren't going to give up, not anymore, and this hesitance on the Bakufu's part was only giving them more time to prepare.

Sooner or later, the Bakufu would have to make good on their bluff or risk losing face.

However, such a large scale war effort as the Bakufu was boasting about would be extremely expensive to raise and maintain. It was no wonder they were dragging their figurative feet about it.

For Katsura-san, every day counted and meetings like these were his way of fighting the war before it had even begun. Quite literally, even. At least, given how Katsura-san's frown deepened the closer they got to the designated meeting place.

Kenshin trailed his fingers on the handle of his sword, unnerved by the implications. Did Katsura-san have an idea about who they were meeting? Or was he doubtful about Sakamoto-san's trustworthiness?

They arrived at the inn a little early.

The nervous proprietor showed them into a quiet room on the second floor, where Sakamoto-san was awaiting them and offered them a single, respectful nod in greeting. Katsura-san didn't seem to mind the sparse welcome, taking a moment to study the seating arrangements. On either side of Sakamoto-san, there were two pillows prepared, set so that they faced each other with a respectful distance in between. Both sides had a single lantern illuminating the corner. Behind the seats on either side were beautifully detailed shoji screens, with flying cranes and mountain painted on them. It seemed that someone had gone to some lengths to make sure both sides were equally presented… which was rather telling.

After a moment's consideration, Katsura-san took a seat on the right side. Kenshin followed his example, setting his pillow exactly two step behind and one to the left of his leader's, making it obvious that he wasn't an active participant in this gathering.

Then they waited.

With each passing moment, Katsura-san's frown grew more poignant and the fingers of his left hand wandered closer to the handle of his sword.

The gesture raised chills on Kenshin's skin. Never before had he seen Katsura-san be so obviously on edge! Even Kenshin was starting to become affected by the tense mood, so he checked the ki presences around them, just to make sure there were no spies nor an ambush lying in wait, or anything else fishy going on. In his sensing range, he could feel only a handful of ki presences, three on the inn's first floor, and a couple more in the nearby houses. All of them were keeping their distance. Even by accident, no one had the possibility of seeing or overhearing this meeting.

Was this too arranged by Sakamoto-san? If so, it spoke well of the man's sensibilities.

Then, two new flickers stepped in his sensing range, and immediately, Kenshin cursed silently, starting to mask his own presence the best he could, trying to spread it thin, make it seem weak and harmless. One of the newcomers had a defined, strong, and obviously trained ki. It was very distinctive and it indicated the possibility that they could read him in turn – a rare skill, one to be taken seriously. Kenshin hadn't had a chance to cross blades with anyone like that since he had left Master, but he wasn't about to make foolish mistakes out of overconfidence, either.

However, the other presence was rather… odd, to say the least. It was weak, flickering, always moving. It felt like someone who had the potential, but hadn't ever trained, and as result, their ki moved constantly, in step with their inner feelings.

The two sets of footprints creaked on the floorboards, climbing steadily up the stairs, crossing the hallway… and then, there they were and Kenshin knew from first sight which presence belonged to which man. The tall samurai with a broad jaw and wide brow was the weak one, a samurai in name only – even the paired swords sat clumsily on his sash. The shorter of the pair though, he was warrior in heart and soul. Everything about him, absolutely everything screamed danger, starting from the way he stood in a self-confident, brash stance, holding his sword close, to the width of his shoulders and his powerful, if a bit heavy mid-drift… to the look of utter loathing on his rounded, reddened face.

"I should have known – Runaway Kogoro," the warrior sneered and spat on the floor.

Katsura-san's ki sparked with anger and Kenshin couldn't help but to stare. He had never, ever felt Katsura-san feel genuinely angry. Not even a hint of that emotion showed on his face, though. Katsura-san's left hand clenched discreetly into a fist on his side, before he released it and smiled. "Ah, Saigo-san. What a surprise."

"Hey, hey now! Please, calm down!" Sakamoto-san rose to his knees and raised both of his hands in a calming gesture, "We all had a purpose in coming here, didn't we? Let's just sit down and talk a bit."

The tall samurai with the weak presence cleared his throat, which had Saigo-san scowling. However, the point had been made. "Fine. We might as well listen to your proposal, Sakamoto-san. I know and trust you and your opinions, even if I don't care for the company you keep." Saigo-san gave Katsura-san a nasty look and made his way to their seats on the opposite side of the room.

Kenshin didn't know much, but now that he could see the crest that both of the strangers wore on their clothes… it kept reminding him of something. He had seen it before, but where? Not in any of the Ishin Shishi meetings, that was for sure, given the sheer malice in the air.

"Let's begin by introducing ourselves. After all, not all of us know each other," Sakamoto-san started, turning to their side. "Kido Takayoshi, as he is known now, is responsible for the Choshuu Ishin Shishi and he has the full support of Takasugi Shinsaku back in his province. Your bodyguard is known as Himura-san, yes?"

Katsura-san inclined his head, but raised his hand to request silence. "Himura Kenshin has served me for years. He has my full trust, but he is of no political importance. He is here today only as my bodyguard."

Sakamoto-san and the weak samurai seemed to accept Katsura-san's explanation, but Saigo-san's scowl deepened. Was he trying to read their ki? Somewhat spooked, Kenshin couldn't help but feel relieved that he had gone to some lengths to mask his presence.

"If he is not important then would you bring him, Runaway Kogoro?" Saigo asked in a mocking tone, like he was trying to antagonize them on purpose.

But why?

Is he really that petty… or is there something he could gain from angering Katsura-san? Kenshin paused, looking from Saigo-san to Katsura-san and back, increasingly perplexed by the situation.

He wasn't the only one. Even Sakamoto-san's easy smile was becoming tense.

Katsura-san let the tense silence drag to an almost uncomfortable level before he answered, "I don't draw my sword anymore, Saigo-san. However, when I go to meet with my enemies," he smirked, " I like to bring, let's say… insurance."

…And what's that supposed to mean? Kenshin blinked owlishly.

Like him, the tall, weak man at Saigo's side wasn't sure how to react to the statement; his ki spiked and shifted, moving quickly in step with his emotions. However, not a bit of his inner turmoil showed on his remarkably calm face – a true politician then. Saigo-san, though… he frowned, but didn't say more.

"Alright… well, now that that's been said," Sakamoto-san cleared his throat awkwardly. "Saigo Takamori-san is currently responsible for Satsuma's interests at the Imperial court. At his side is Okubo Toshimichi-san, who answers for Tax Administration in Satsuma. Just like you, Kido-san, and your friend Takasugi-san can speak for Choshuu, together Saigo-san and Okubo-san can speak on behalf of Satsuma."

Kenshin's heart skipped a beat and suddenly, he understood Katsura-san's anger and hesitation perfectly.

They were dealing with Satsuma?

The same fucking province that had been the first to rise against Choshuu during the Hamaguri gate incident? That Satsuma? And come to think of it, hadn't it been Saigo-san who had lead the Bakufu's troops to Choshuu, to make rebels answer for their crimes in that disaster?

Oh gods, these people were just about the most brutal and despised enemies that Choshuu had and now, Sakamoto-san was suggesting a trade agreement?!

Well, yes, Satsuma had just about the best connections to the West, with better arrangements with both the Brits and the French that almost any province could boast having but, but… who the hell could be naive enough to suggest that Choshuu could trust them?!

"Also it should be mentioned," Sakamoto-san forged on, "that neither Saigo-san or Okubo-san are satisfied with the Bakufu's rule and both have spend significant time and effort building an opposition against them."

Katsura-san raised his brow. "What are you suggesting, Sakamoto-san?"

"Well, for a start… your troublesome situation should be clear enough." Sakamoto-san motioned to them. "Choshuu needs contacts and a trusted middleman to negotiate a trade agreement with the Westerners for weaponry. Satsuma has the connections and they can work as a guarantor for the deal as long as need be. However, what Satsuma wants in return for this favor… that's somewhat more challenging."

"How so?" Katsura-san asked calmly, even as his left hand clenched into a tight fist by his side.

"Well, to put it simply," Sakamoto-san paused, before taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly, "Satsuma wants it all. They want to overthrow the old-fashioned and powerless Bakufu, crush the choke-hold the Westerners have over us, and unify our country, reforming and modernizing it."

A stunned silence followed those words.

Sakamoto-san smiled tensely, and inclined his head first to Katsura-san and then to Saigo-san. "So in truth, what I am really here to suggest… is a total alliance between your domains and armed forces. Together, Choshuu and Satsuma could actually make this revolution a reality."

But that's… that's... Kenshin gaped, utterly speeches.

And before he could string two thoughts together, a ki presence flared right beside him. "You'd have me put my trust in traitorous backstabbing Satsuma scum?" Katsura-san snarled, "Have you mangy dogs ever kept your word to anyone?"

Saigo was on his feet in seconds, his face twisted in rage, "You are one to talk, Runaway Kogoro! A weak coward like you, what could we possibly gain from allying with a bunch of failures and fanatical nutjobs like you?" Saigo's voice rose to a shout and he stepped forward, drawing his sword, his ki flaring like he was just about to charge—

And without pausing to think, Kenshin concentrated his ki and felt the world pause in a standstill; faster than the eye could see, he dashed between them, covering Katsura-san as he crouched in Battoujutsu stance and let his own ki flare in response. No one had the right to threaten Katsura-san, not on his watch!

"STOP IT!" screamed Sakamoto-san, loudly slamming the end of his sheath on the tatami floor.

Eyes locked with his, Saigo-san wasn't moving a muscle – neither backing off, nor attacking, so Kenshin stayed ready, too. However, slowly, but steadily, the unleashed, overpowering ki in the room was mellowing down…

Kenshin let out the breath he had been holding.

And suddenly, Saigo-san's eyes widened in recognition and he let out an incredulous laugh, almost in admiration. "Kido, you utter scum!" Then the antagonistic samurai straightened and slipped his sword back into its sheath.

…What the hell?

"Kenshin, it's alright," Katsura-san said behind him.

There wasn't much Kenshin could do then, no matter how baffled he was. So he, too, straightened and bowed in apology, before he returned to his seat.

However, Saigo-san was still on his feet and looking at Katsura-san. "I kept racking my brains, what you could have meant by insurance, Kido-san… but that bodyguard of yours, he is Hitokiri Battousai, is he not?"

The loud gasp rang out in the room, as Sakamoto-san's mouth fell open in shock and Okubo-san's eyes widened in fear.

Katsura-san just nodded once, a tiny concession.

"Well played. Well played, indeed, Kido-san," Saigo-san said grimly. "If you had so wanted, you could have caused a true blow to Satsuma today by assassinating us. I never believed those rumors fully, but here, now – I can see that your man is the real deal, even if he looks like a scrawny piece of shit. I have never felt anything as terrifying as that ki and those eyes, those are killer's eyes." Then Saigo nodded once, as if he too had come to a decision. "Very well, I am willing to meet with you again. We have to think on the implications of this alliance you are suggesting, Sakamoto-san… but for now, let's meet again in two weeks?"

Sakamoto-san seemed speechless by the turn of events, but he nodded and then swallowed dryly, shaking himself out of his stupor. "Yes. Yes, a meeting, two weeks from now. Would this location suffice again?"

"That sounds reasonable," Katsura-san agreed also, taking his sword and rising to his feet. Silent as a ghost, Kenshin followed his example. "Thank you all. We will retire for tonight. It was a pleasure to meet you again, Saigo-san, Okubo-san." Katsura-san inclined his head, and shot a pointed look at the lone Tosa samurai, "Sakamoto-san."

They left without further word.

It was all according to protocol, if Kenshin understood right; they had arrived first, so they would have to leave first just to keep the negotiation even. And when it came to this particular negotiation, everything had to go by the book, especially if things were ever to progress out from under the enormous tangle of complications, to what Sakamoto-san had suggested…

Kenshin let out a slow breath, trying to still the jittery shakes that were creeping up on him. A full alliance between Satsuma and Choshuu… it felt too big of a concept, impossible even. Could it even be done?

Sure, the logic behind the suggestion was clear. If Choshuu had Satsuma's full support, the rebellion would stand a much better chance. Satsuma was one of the wealthiest domains; they had a remarkable number of samurai at their disposal and on top of that, they had valuable trade connections to the West. They had a lot to offer the rebellion.

On the other hand, Satsuma had followed the Tokugawa for ages and there was a lot of bad blood between them and Choshuu. The Hamaguri Gate disaster and its aftermath were only the latest in a long list of grudges that Choshuu had against them.

Was it even possible to build an alliance on such a sour foundation?

Besides, why would Satsuma even need Choshuu for anything? In comparison to them, Choshuu was weak, robbed of its pride and wealth, time and time again. How could a negotiation ever be remotely even between the two domains?

…And what was that confrontation between Saigo-san and Katsura-san? Kenshin crinkled his brow. The best he could figure out, it had been some sort of tactic, they had provoked each other to get an honest reaction. However no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't wrap his mind around this alliance. Feeling at a loss, he sought Katsura-san's gaze and tilted his head a bit in silent question.

"It's true that Choshuu could gain a lot from this alliance that Sakamoto-san is suggesting," Katsura-san murmured thoughtfully. "However, Satsuma is powerful and they know it… which could lead to a very difficult ordeal for us."

Kenshin frowned.

"Don't worry about it." Katsura-san shook his head, "We will enter this game with them, but it's going to be a difficult one to play. If I am not careful enough, they will seek to overpower us and take the lead. Saigo-especially. That man is a dangerous adversary. Okubo though, I couldn't get a good sense of him."

"Thinker and plotter."

Katsura-san raised his brow in question.

"Hi ki – it was always moving, but his face didn't mirror any of it it. He is potentially the more dangerous of the pair."

"Yes, that fits my thoughts," said Katsura-san. "Thank you, Kenshin."

Kenshin inclined his head slightly in acknowledgement.

And so they walked side by side; a killer and a leader… or just two idealists fighting for their dream.


AN: Also in case you were wondering, I have no idea how Satcho alliance negotiations began. This is just my own version of the events. ;)

Betaed by Animaniacal in 03.06.2016.