Hey guys! Merry Late Christmas! See I told you I'd update! I have the next two chapters already written too! Yay for me . . . though I'm not going to post them all at once. Well, enough chit-chat onto the chapter!
Disclaimer: I don't own Rurouni Kenshin!
Chapter 26: Looking for Hope (didn't have a better title)
Kenshin Dismounted his horse for the second time that day in a town right off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It had been two weeks since he left his peaceful farm life back home and he was beginning to miss it dearly. He had passed through so many big cities since his departure and with no lead as to where Sano had taken off he had decided his best bet would be to look into all the major harbor towns.
He tied Summer to a post outside of what appeared to be one of the most popular café's in town. He entered inside the quaint building and walked up to the front counter where he proceeded his usual questionnaire to see if anyone had seen Sano or Sayo. With another failed attempt he sighed and walked back outside where he began to stroke Summer with affection.
"Looks like we struck out again huh, girl? How I wish I could just turn around and go home sometimes, how bout you?" Summer gave an agreeable snort and Kenshin untied the reins and began leading his horse down the street. Even with all of the different towns he had seen it seemed that this town seemed much busier than all the others combined.
People on the roadside selling trinkets, hundreds of immigrants trying to hitch rides to the country, Kenshin had never heard so many different languages being spoken at one time. 'Things have changed a lot since when I used to live here.' For some reason this thought only saddened him more, so he continued on in silence trying to sort his thoughts and figure out where to venture to next.
As he rounded the bend he caught sight of the ocean. The waves glistened in the sunlight and Kenshin couldn't help but smile with pleasure. 'One thing hasn't changed though. The ocean is still as beautiful as I remember it.' It was then that he caught sight of the immense ship that had just pulled into the harbor.
With a final horn blow the ship finished docking and all at once it appeared as though thousands of people came flocking off the ship. It was like the breaking of a dam as mass confusion ensued when people began disembarking. People were shouting several children screamed in anger as hard faced mothers tried to carry them to the train station.
Kenshin just stood to the side and watched with intrigue. 'I wonder if this is the way it was when Kaoru came to America.' The thought struck a cord deep in his heart and he began to ache for his beloved. It was then that he decided that he should send a telegram just to let her know he was safe. With that thought he began to scout for the post office.
Misao stepped out of the buggy and walked deliberately up to the front door of the Himura's house. She knocked rather loudly and waited for a reply. When none came she opened the door. "Kaoru? Kaoru where are you?" After searching the house thoroughly she walked back out onto the porch and stared out at the fields.
She walked around the back of house where she breathed a sigh of relief when she spotted Kaoru working diligently in her garden. Misao cleared her throat rather loudly and Kaoru whirled around and smiled weakly.
"Hello Misao, how are you?"
"Don't you go formal on me, Kaoru." Misao jested and walked up to her friend and embraced her. Kaoru felt rather frail in her arms and Misao began to worry. "Kaoru how are you are you feeling ok? You shouldn't work so har-"
"Sou Sou!" Kenji's exuberant cry of joy diverted both women's attention to his muddied face.
"Oh Kenji, you're filthy. What has mommy told you about playing in the mud?"
Misao giggled as she watched Kaoru wipe Kenji's face with a disgruntled snort Kenji began to pout he had worked hard to get that dirty.
Satisfied with her cleaning job Kaoru wiped her hands on her apron and turned her attention back to Misao. "Would you like something to drink?"
Misao not thirsty at all decided it would be best if she said yes, at least that would get Kaoru out of the sun for a while.
"That's sounds wonderful. You head on in, I'll gather up the dirt clod." Kaoru nodded and walked around front but not before she took one last glance at her son as he frantically ran around giggling trying to escape from Misao's pursuing form.
Once inside Kaoru filled three glasses with ice from the ice box, and began to pour sweet tea in each. Her thoughts were quickly swept away with thoughts of Kenshin. It had been two weeks since her rode off into that dismal storm leaving nothing but an ache nothing seemed to fill. Not even Kenji could rid her of the emptiness that seemed to remain behind.
She was worried, no that was an understatement she was petrified when she thought about all that Kenshin could have met up with. This past week she had begun to have nightmares. Each night she would wake up in a cold sweat and have to reside herself to some odd job around the house.
'That would explain the reason why I feel so tired. I've hardly slept a wink this week.' Kaoru thought to herself absentmindedly. 'Kenshin wouldn't be happy with me.' She thought before she could catch herself. She hated when she did that. It only made the pain worse.
Kaoru's thoughts were interrupted when a very muddy Misao and a very proud Kenji walked through the front door. "Oh my!" Was all Kaoru had to say as she stared at Misao's face.
Kenji giggled, "Sou Sou played in mud. Now Mommy cwean her!"
"Oh Kenji how could you?" Kaoru complained as she fetched a towel for Misao to wipe her face with.
"Don't get mad at him Kaoru it was my fault I didn't see the puddle."
"Don't even try to protect him Misao. Kenji you apologize this minute."
"I sowwy Sou Sou."
"It's alright Kenji Aoshi always said brown was one of my best colors."
With that last remark Kaoru couldn't hold her laughter anymore and began to laugh hysterically. "Oh- oh Misao – Please forgive me- it's just- you look- you look- so fu-funny!"
Misao had no problem with Kaoru laughing at all; in fact, the whole purpose of her trip was to lighten Kaoru's burden, so Misao gladly joined in.
By the time the two had finished Kenji was staring at the two of them quite confused. "Kenji, why don't you play with you blocks Daddy made you?"
"Otay."
With just the mention of her son's father Kaoru became reserved and quiet yet again. She turned to hand Misao her drink and set a small glass down next to Kenji. The two ladies sat down at the table and drank their tea in silence. Well, almost silence except for the occasional outburst of Kenji knocking down his block tower and yelling "Oh No!"
"So Misao," Kaoru finally began, "how are Selphie and Katrin and why didn't they come with you?"
"They're just fine and spending the day with their daddy."
"Really, that's wonderful."
"Yes, he really is quite good with them, and of course they have a nanny if they have need of a woman's care today. How are you though? I know you said you were expecting again, are you sure you should be working so much?"
Kaoru smiled, "Misao, I have to work, otherwise the farm with just fall over and die."
"Yes, but you have so much to do. Don't you think you should hire a helping hand?"
"Misao you know we can't afford that."
Even as Kaoru said 'we' Misao inwardly flinched. She had known that the past two years had been rather hard on all of the local farmers. The crops had not produced as well and everyone was fighting for every last piece of grain. Now it was fall and harvesting season at that, she had no idea how Kaoru was going to pull through. She knew that Kaoru even went to Sano's farm every day in order to check on the crops.
Apparently Kaoru had moved all of Sano's animals to their own farm so that she could keep a better watch on them. "Kaoru, you seriously are working to much."
"Misao, if I don't do the work . . . who will?"
The question stung and Misao didn't have an answer. She still didn't know the entire story behind the reason Sano and Kenshin had left. All she knew was that Sayo had apparently taken off with some girlfriends and Sano had gone after her which led to Kenshin going after him. Now Kaoru was all alone and Misao could hardly offer any advice.
Kaoru watched her best friend's pained expression and sympathized with her. She reached across the table and took Misao's hand. "Don't worry Misao, Kenji and I will make it. I promise."
Misao wanted to take comfort in her friend's words but knew there was none to be had. She sighed, "at least let me help you with the rest of your work today."
"Alright, but you're asking for it."
Misao smiled and the two women set to work. By the end of the day Misao could hardly move a muscle and Kaoru was carrying Kenji in from the field where they had been working.
"When will you be coming into town?"
"I don't know." Kaoru furrowed her brow. 'I do have to sell the latest harvest but if I go into town I won't be able to look after the animals. Maybe if I get up at three in the morning I could get my daily chores done and . . .'
Misao watched her friend's distant expression and finally after moments of silence tried to break Kaoru from her reverie. "Kaoru?" No answer. "Kaoru?"
"Oh hmmm?"
"Just making sure you were still with me."
"Sorry Misao I was just trying to fix a schedule in my mind. Perhaps after the caw has her calf I'll be able to."
"You're going to birth a calf?"
"Sure, I've seen Kenshin do it several times."
Misao wasn't convinced, "Kaoru maybe I should send Aoshi out to help and-"
"No Misao, I don't need any help." Kaoru stated stubbornly. "I can't take care of myself and what's mine just fine. I've face hard times before and I can do it again."
"I know Kaoru, it's just that-"
"I know you're concerned and worried about my well-being Misao, and I think it's sweet, but you see the truth is, I'm fine. When I need help I'll let you know. Kenshin's going to come back soon, and everything will be normal again."
Misao nodded in silence wishing with all of her heart Kaoru was right. She ended up having dinner with Kaoru and even stayed later into the night helping Kaoru with her sewing. When it came about the time for Kenji to go to bed Misao took her leave.
As she drove the buggy back home her thoughts dwelt mainly on Kaoru's undying determination to do things herself. Though she didn't understand it fully she respected it and made a mental note to mention Kaoru's situation to Hajime Saito the next time she saw him.
Sayo put on her favorite earrings then proceeded to finish her hair. Carter Blackshield, one of the wealthiest men in the entire city, was taking her out again and she wanted to look her best. She hadn't intended to be so captivated by him, but as he continued to dote upon her and give her the utmost respect she had slowly begun to give him whatever he asked for. Not that it mattered anyway; it couldn't hurt her in the end. It had been nice to be away from the smelly farm for almost three weeks and she intended to make a name for herself here.
As she sat in front of the mirror she inspected at her reflection, and deep in her heart she knew she was no longer the same woman she once was. Though a smile was firmly placed on her lips the sunken in cheeks and the dull eyes made her look old and worn.
She never would have admitted it, but if truth be told she was beginning to miss the 'fantasy' of city life. It had, after all, caught her off guard it was completely different than she had imagined at first. She had expected a glamorous life with high class women going to high class gatherings and such, the first few days had been especially trying.
She had found herself miserable, longing for home, at least until she had met Carter. He had been the dream she was waiting for. He took her everywhere and gave her everything she wanted. Even now if she looked deep enough inside herself she would find she was still empty, searching for a peace that was inaccessible. Not even the pleasant evenings at Carter's seemed to wash away her disquiet.
She shook her head as if to clear away the unsettling thoughts. 'This is what I've always wanted.' She thought with confidence and finished pinning up the last strand of hair. She had just finished putting on her bracelet when a knock at her apartment door told her that Carter was waiting in the lobby.
"He's early as usual." She mused to herself then grabbed her parasol the newest of her trinkets she had talked Carter into buying. She smiled wickedly at her reflection as if daring it to speak against what she was doing. When silence answered her she propped her parasol over her shoulder and gilded out of the room.
Well there ya go! Another chapter! So sorry it took so long to post. I haven't been home and my computer is DUMB!. Anywayz onto my reviewers! I LOVE YOU ALL!
My Reviewers
kakshi-fan- yes I figured most would have thought me dead by now . . .no worries!
Ochanoko- aww thanks!
Half-breed-demon-fox- Exactly you can't kill me because I have to finish the fic!
Kik-ting- Muahahah oh the plans that I have . . .just wait and see!
Jmj1o2- Thanks! Hope you liked this chapter!
Lily of the Shadow- Thanks so much for my shield . . .I definitely used it!
Brittanie Love- . . .tear awww thanks so much! I love how you spell your name by the way!
Lyphta- Yay I'm forgiven! Thanks so much!
Kenshinobsession- Yes Kaoru has told Kenshin about the next baby. I would absolutely love it if you drew fan art! If you do you HAVE to let me see it!
Kenjiniki- So sorry I didn't get your previous review. Apparently it's happened a couple other times. Thanks so much for your encouragement! It makes writing the story so much more enjoyable! Glad you're on my team!
Tintin-chan- Whew that cow almost killed me! gulp No mean surprises please! Lol!
Ginny-cry- Heh thanks! But I'll still do my best to update regularly!
The Evil Witch- Yes I am back! It's wonderful! Hope you liked this chappie!
Razvanor- Your comments are very sweet thanks so much! I actually read a lot of books about this time period. Lots of books by Gilbert Morris contain lots of in depth history and junk. So it kind of just comes natural to write about this time period. By the way I highly enjoyed reading your fic! I plan n reading the one you have that has tons of chapters when I have the chance. Thanks again!
Lee- So glad you liked it!
Rain angst- Yay I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Sequl x Kira Yamato- I am so sorry I didn't have you on the reviewers list. My account apparently lost a few other reviews as well. SO I didn't get it . . .siffle Please forgive me I never do it again . . .unless my account messes up again! Hope this update was fairly soon enough!
Lanse- Thanks . . .who knows how long Kenshin will be gone . . .hmmm I DO!
AnimeSoul3- Merry late Christmas! I totally celebrate it and don't worry bout offendin peeps. They can just get over it . . .lol! Hope you have a great New Years!
Erica6060- Heheh time will tell!
Shattered Sword- Yes I live! Isn't it great?
Candace Goodnight- Hehe thanks! I actually got the idea from a book a read a long long time ago . . .though I think I changed a lot . . .can't really remember been so long! LOl! Thanks!
De Lazy Lime- I know I know I'm awful! looks at axe Though I don't think you'll need that . . heh heh!
Celest4- SO glad you're enjoying it! Hope you continue to read!
Shinken-Tamura Yoshimi- Wow that's a mouthful . . .a lot harder to write then your last name . . .lol! Muahahah oh the plans I have for this story!
Kaioraa- I love your pen name . . .how do you pronounce it? Thanks for your review!
Elva- I know it's sad but it'll be a happy ending . . .maybe . . .muahahah I'm evil!
Shiomei- I know . . .I would have thought I'd died too if I didn't live with myself . . . umm anyway, hope you liked this chapter!
Chibi Binasu-chan- Hope you're not angry it took a lot longer to update than I originally thought!
Captain Stu- Hehe in one day? That's a lot of chapters! Lol! Hope you had a Merry Christmas as well!
Shinta-Fan- Whew . . .the first time I saw the first five words of your review I was like OH NO a FLAME! Then I read the rest and was ok . . .lol! Hope you enjoyed this chappie!
Sheesh! It takes so long to write responses back . . . but I felt bad about not updating for two weeks so I had to do everyone again! It's all on account of my retarded computer though! If I had a couple of mis-spellings in the reviewer responses it's only cause I don't feel like checking it and I'm going out of town tomorrow and I have to get some sleep. You guys wanted me to post right? Well then deal with the little minor things! Hope you all enjoyed the chapter! I can't wait for the next one though because I get to introduce my OC! I'm totally pumped ! Anyway have a great New Years!
I remain faithfully yours!
Kairi7