AN: My deepest apologies for the long wait on this chapter. I must have started the chapter at least a dozen times before figuring out which direction I wanted to take this.

A nod of thanks to my betas Shrouded View and LC Rose, who helped me iron out the kinks. Thank you, also, to everyone who left reviews, added this story to your favs and alerts, and sent me words of encouragement.

Disclaimer: Rurouni Kenshin characters are the sole property of Nobuhiro Watsuki. Any original characters which arise belong to me.

xxx

Allerleiruah – Chapter 3

The Proclamation

Kaoru skirted the edge of the room, watching the visiting nobles spin and waltz their way across the floor of the Grand Ballroom in a dizzying display of color, all the while keeping a wary eye out for Lord Enishi Yukishiro. She smiled politely to those who addressed her, but never stopped long enough to get caught up in conversation with any one person.

Tonight was the Le grande féte, an elaborate gala marking the closing of the three-day-long celebration for Kaoru's eighteenth birthday. After this night, Kaoru could officially be courted by any noble wishing to seek her hand for marriage. She worried that Enishi had already set his sights on her, but though he was handsome and charming, Kaoru didn't trust him.

Over the past few days, Enishi had actively sought Kaoru's company. She was always polite – sometimes even welcoming his attentions if it kept the slimier men away – but she could never fully relax around him. There was something that simmered just under his surface that made her suspicious and it frustrated Kaoru that she could not name the source of her unease.

Slipping through one of the many pairs of large glass doors that led outside, Kaoru breathed in the warm evening air. Taking in the scent of the jasmine that decorated the terrace, she allowed the sweet perfume to calm her frayed nerves. Kaoru knew she could not be absent long, but even if she escaped the stifling ballroom for just a few minutes, it would help her maintain her composure through the rest of the evening.

What she really wanted – what she needed – was time in the training hall, just her and her sword. Then she would be able to relax. It had been a long night and Kaoru couldn't decide which hurt more, her head or her feet. It was exhausting putting on the perfect princess façade and making excuses for her father, but the party was nearing its end. Kaoru knew that she only needed to last a little bit longer, then all those obnoxious people would finally go away.

Walking to the edge of the terrace, Kaoru placed gloved hands on the stone railing, looking down to study the formal garden spread out below her. Illuminated by the light of dozens of torches, the ordered structure was a direct contrast to her turbulent thoughts.

Tomorrow, the Council would gather to determine which women might make a suitable companion for her father. Kaoru had little doubt they would also press her to accept the suit of one of the noblemen. Unfortunately, she had no answer for either question.

The women were all empty-headed; the men were, well… men. Despite what the Council thought, a new wife would not "fix" Koushijiro Kamiya. Kaoru also knew that not one of these men would be able to accept her if truly knew who she was – not a prim and proper princess, but a sword master with a fiery temper.

Sighing despondently, Kaoru indulged in a moment of self-pity, wishing things could just go back to the way they had been before her mother's death, when life was simple and she was free to live it how she chose.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of boots on the terrace stone behind her. Stiffening, Kaoru had little doubt as to who had followed her outside. She may not have seen him earlier, but she'd felt his eyes watching her throughout the ball.

"If I didn't know better, I would think you were avoiding me, Highness."

Kaoru did not turn at the sound of Enishi's voice, choosing instead to continue observing the garden and the few guests who mingled among the hedgerows.

"I've been avoiding everyone," she replied sardonically.

"I'm sorry to hear that. I had thought you rather enjoyed my company over the last few days." His tone confident, Enishi drew up beside her, the sleeve of his velvet tunic brushing against the shoulder left bare by the cut of her dress. Uncomfortable with the close proximity, Kaoru turned to step away, but Enishi grasped her wrist to prevent her leaving.

"Don't. There is something I want to discuss with you." Kaoru glanced down to where he held her before looking up at him warily, remaining silent.

"Tell me, Highness, are the rumors about your father true?" The question was spoken casually, but Kaoru's instincts flared in warning.

Kaoru blinked, caught off guard by his question. Swallowing thickly, she willed her nerves to settle.

"He hasn't been feeling well these last few days, if that's what you mean," she replied steadily, repeating the lie that had been told to all the guests when the king still hadn't made an appearance by the second day of the celebration.

"Ah, yes, I do remember being told something like that, but no, that's not what I mean. I'm talking about the rumor that says the king's insane."

Kaoru stared at him wide-eyed for a moment before she answered, fighting the fine tremors of nervousness she could feel threatening to break free.

"I don't know what you're talking about, Enishi," she said evenly, praying he couldn't feel the anxiety that she was sure was flowing off her in visible waves.

"Don't you? They say his grief over the death of your mother has driven reason from his mind," he replied, cocking a single brow in amusement as he ran is thumb over the soft skin of her wrist causing the pulse underneath to race even faster. Smirking, he continued, confident in the knowledge he had paid so handsomely for.

"The nobles aren't as ignorant as you and the Council would like to believe, Princess. You think it has gone unnoticed that your father hasn't been seen publicly even once since the queen's death? You think that servants wouldn't let slip that the king has been seen wandering the halls of this palace talking to himself?"

Kaoru's trepidation turned to anger at this last question. Everyone knew that servants were the key to knowledge about any household, but in this instance, revealing palace secrets was tantamount to treason, punishable by death.

"Who told you that? It's a lie!" she hissed, quickly looking around to be sure no one was overhearing their conversation.

"You are very beautiful, Kaoru," he said, ignoring her angry tone, his own patronizing. Reaching out, he fingered some of the ebony tresses that spilled over her shoulder. "But despite the beauty and strength you are showing the world, you are hurting."

"Enishi…" Kaoru's anger melted almost instantly under the fear aroused by the too-familiar touch. She desperately wanted to get away from him, but Enishi's hand remained on her wrist, restraining her.

"I will be leaving tomorrow; I want to see you again." Bringing the fragrant locks to his lips, Enishi looked deep into her eyes. "You shouldn't have to bear the burden of ruling this kingdom alone."

There was no request in the statement; the intense look in his brilliant, turquoise eyes all but dared her to deny him.

"I, I-I'm… I don't…" Kaoru stammered, searching for an escape without creating a commotion.

"Highness! There you are!" Kaoru closed her eyes in relief at the sound of her maid's voice. Enishi quickly stepped away, releasing her.

"What are you doing out here?" Midori admonished. "You are neglecting your guests."

Without a backwards glance at the young lord, Kaoru allowed herself to be ushered back into the ballroom, whispering her thanks to Midori. The lady-in-waiting glanced over her shoulder at Enishi, quickly looking away from the malice she saw reflected in his eyes. Midori shared her mistress's misgivings about the young lord and now they increased a thousand fold.

"I didn't like the way he was looking at you, Kaoru. What were you doing out here alone?"

"I just needed a minute to myself. I didn't think he would follow me."

"Never mind that now. Your father has arrived," Midori whispered frantically as the two women entered the crowded room.

"What?" Kaoru exclaimed, whipping her head around to look at the older woman, oblivious to the stares her shout had drawn.

"Ah, there she is!"

Kaoru froze at the sound over the father's deep voice carrying over the hushed crowd. Turning slowly, she looked up at the dais located at the front of the room. There, dressed in a magnificent black, velvet tunic embroidered with the golden lions of her family's crest, was Kaoru's father. She was stunned at how robust and young he looked, as though nothing had transpired in the past year.

'How can this be the same man?' she wondered.

"Come over here, Dearest," he beckoned, holding out one hand.

The crowd in front of her parted and as Kaoru slowly made her way forward, she tried not to let her apprehension show. When she reached the dais, Kaoru accepted the proffered hand, climbing the few steps until she stood before her father.

"It's good to see you're feeling better, Father," Kaoru said, hoping she didn't sound as stunned by his appearance as she felt.

Bending low, the king placed a kiss on her cheek, his low whisper unheard by the crowd.

"You've came back to me."

Confused by his words, Kaoru pulled back. Eternity seemed to pass in a moment as the king gazed down on his daughter, the look in his eyes making Kaoru's blood run cold. It was raw, hungry, and not unlike the looks she had received from several noblemen during the last few days. Kaoru swallowed heavily around the knot of terror forming in her throat, every nerve in her body screaming at her to flee.

She didn't understand what was going on, but of one thing she was certain – this man was not her father. However, Kaoru knew she couldn't show her fear in front of the nobility gathered and so, plastering a smile on her face that she hoped was convincing, she turned to face the crowd as her father began to speak.

"Lords and Ladies, honored guests. Thank you for joining us for this very special occasion. I hope you are enjoying yourselves this evening?"

His question was met with polite applause and murmurs of assent.

"Excellent, excellent. Very good!" the king effused, clasping his hands together. "It has been far too long since this castle has been host to a grand party such as this. With all of you gathered together tonight, I think it's the perfect time to announce some good news."

In the periphery of her vision, Kaoru saw Enishi reenter the ballroom. He remained by the door with his arms crossed, a knowing smirk gracing his handsome features.

"I have chosen a new queen!"

Distracted by the look on Enishi's face, Kaoru did not register her father's words until the mutterings of speculation rushing through the gathered crowd penetrated her thoughts.

Kaoru turned, startled, to look at her father in disbelief. "Y-You what?" she whispered.

The king only smiled in response. Kaoru watched in horror as the king, Koushijiro Kamiya, the man who had given her life, the man who had raised her, knelt on the dais and grasped her hands.

"Princess Kaoru, would you do me the honor of marrying me? Of becoming queen to rule by my side?"

Kaoru's world spun and tilted dangerously as she stumbled away from the king, the guests erupting in screams and shouts of protest. Strong arms caught her before she could fall off the dais. She grasped at them as her vision narrowed before knees gave way and she was taken by the darkness.

xxx

Kaoru groaned as the pungent smell of salt invaded her senses, her pulse throbbing in her temples.

"I think she's waking," whispered a hushed voice before a cool cloth was placed on her forehead. "Highness?"

Cracking her eyes open, it took a moment for them to adjust to the dim light before she recognized that she was laying on the chaise in her sitting room. Kaoru turned her head, wincing through her headache, and saw Midori's concerned face leaning over her. Tanjiro stood just a few steps behind.

"What happened?" Kaoru's voice rasped.

"You don't remember?" Tanjiro asked, walking forward with his brow furrowed.

Pressing the heal of her palm against her pounding head, Kaoru closed her eyes once again and searched her memory. "I remember being at the ball. Enishi confronted me in the garden…" Her voice trailed off as she fought through the fog still clouding her thoughts. A brief image flitted across her memory. She looked up at the pair, a puzzled look on her face. "Was my father there?"

Midori and Tanjiro exchanged a knowing look.

"What? What happened?" Kaoru demanded, eyes flitting between the two.

"Highness," Midori replied, reaching out to grasp Kaoru's raised hand. "Your father announced he intends to marry you."

"What?" Kaoru sat up suddenly, immediately regretting the movement as the throbbing in her head slammed against the back of her eyes.

"The Council is holding an emergency meeting as we speak, Highness," Tanjiro said gently, but urgently. "We need to come up with a plan to stop this madness, and quickly. The king ordered that you be brought to the Council Chamber as soon as you awaken."

xxx

Kaoru was unsure if their hastily concocted plan would succeed, but at this point, she didn't have any other option. Midori's knowledge of an old tradition seemed to be her only hope. She certainly was not going to marry her own father. Tanjiro and Midori escorted her to the Council Chamber, but as they approached the massive oak doors, she hesitated. Even through the thick wood, Kaoru could hear men's voices shouting and arguing.

Turning to look at Midori, her friend and confidant for the past year, she searched the older woman's eyes for some measure of hope.

"We'll be right there with you, Kaoru. You know the part you must play if you have any chance of escaping this madness," Midori whispered as she straightened the delicate, glittering tiara nestled in the mass of Kaoru's hair before cupping the princess's cheek in a motherly gesture.

"Are you ready?" Tanjiro asked, laying a steadying hand on her shoulder.

"As much as I ever will be, I think," Kaoru whispered.

Tanjiro opened the door and the trio entered unnoticed, greeted with the roar of the Council's debate. Through the cacophony, Kaoru was able to pick out a few of the louder voices.

"Did this Council not just recently agree that the king should take a new wife?"

"Are you insane? He can't marry her!"

Words like "condemnation," "blasphemy," "incest" were shouted, spat from the mouths of councilmen like poison.

Kaoru was stunned to realize that there were some among the Council who actually were willing to let the wedding go forward.

"Silence!" the king's voice, angry and venomous, rang out over the crowd bringing an almost immediate cessation to the clamor filling the room. "My precious Kaida was taken from me too soon, but Heaven has seen fit to return her to me in Kaoru. On her deathbed, the queen told me that I could not re-marry until I found a woman that was equal to her in beauty, strength and wit. Only the princess fulfills that requirement!"

"Marrying her would be blasphemous and would bring condemnation down upon our entire kingdom!" a deep, familiar voice called out from the back of the room.

'What the hell is he doing here?' she thought angrily.

Following the line of turned heads, Kaoru she locked eyes with Enishi. His mouth was tilted in that same smirk she had seen earlier. In a moment of stunning clarity, Kaoru knew – somehow, some way, Enishi had orchestrated everything. The knowledge slammed into her gut, making it difficult for her to breathe.

'But why? Why would he do this?' Kaoru couldn't fathom what Enishi hoped to accomplish.

The king's voice interrupted Kaoru's thoughts, drawing her attention back to the scene playing out before her.

"I was not aware that you were part of this council, Lord Yukishiro," the king sneered condescendingly. "You desire Kaoru as well, do you not, boy? Do not think I haven't seen the way you look at her."

"That is true, sire," he replied, turning his eyes upon the king once more. "In fact, I declared my intention to court the princess to her just tonight."

Whispers spread through the Council members at this.

"And what did she say?" The king's eyes narrowed dangerously.

"We were interrupted before she could answer, Majesty," Enishi admitted truthfully.

Kaoru watched as smirk of victory blossomed on her father's face.

"If she did not accept you, then you have no right to be here."

"She was not given the opportunity to answer," Enishi corrected.

"I see little diff—" the king began.

"However," Enishi boldly interrupted as if the king had not spoken, "her acceptance of my suit is of little consequence. She is your daughter!"

Koushijiro's eyes narrowed dangerously at the audacity of the young nobleman.

"You are not the first here tonight to make that assertion, but like before, I must correct the misconception. Kaoru is not my daughter. She is Kaida reborn and my future queen."

Kaoru blinked, unable to comprehend what she had just heard, but one look in the king's eyes revealed the nightmarish reality of the situation. Her father's reason had finally snapped and he was caught in a delusional world of his own making. He truly believed she was a reincarnation of her dead mother. In those dark eyes, there was no recognition of the daughter before him, only desire for a woman that looked to be the twin of his deceased wife.

What little hope Kaoru had in the Council's ability to reason with the king shattered. Everything now rested on the proposal she had yet to make.

"Ah! Here she is at last, the woman who will be my new queen!" the king declared, finally catching sight of Kaoru who still stood near the chamber's doors.

It was all Kaoru could do to mask the revulsion she felt at his words as all heads in the room turned to look at her. Stepping forward until she stood in the middle of the Council's circle, Kaoru held her head high, poising herself like the royalty she was. Taking a steadying breath and trying not to choke on the words that she was about to speak, Kaoru addressed the man before her not as her father, but as the king who had demanded her hand. Slowly, clearly, she began to recite the script she had hastily written with Midori and Tanjiro.

"Your Majesty, you have declared your intent to marry me before the nobles of your kingdom and this assembly," she began, her voice strong. "However, I cannot accept."

Several of the Council members nodded their heads and muttered words of agreement and support. Surprisingly, however, the king remained silent. Through narrowed, dangerous eyes, he watched her carefully. After a moment, he raised a hand and demanded silence.

"And what reason have you, Princess, for refusing me? Are you here to tell me you intend to accept that boy's suit?" he sneered, gesturing in Enishi's direction.

"No, Your Majesty, that is not why I am here."

"Then I'll ask you again: what is your reason for refusing me, girl?" he demanded angrily, addressing her with the same patronizing tone he'd used earlier with Enishi.

"You have not met my bride price," she answered simply, her gaze unwavering.

The king raised a single, dark brow in surprise before letting out a bark of laughter. "Ridiculous! No one demands a bride price any more. What utter nonsense."

"My father was a very traditional man, Majesty, one devoted to the old ways. I cannot enter into a union without some token of my betrothed's devotion," Kaoru replied steadily, willing away the tears that threatened to fall. It hurt to speak about him in the past tense, but the gentle man who had been her father no longer existed. In his place sat the stranger before her.

"Very well," the king replied, leaning forward on the arms of his throne. "I will play along with this folly. What price do you require?"

"As a princess, and heir to a kingdom in my own right, the price I demand is high. Before I can accept your offer of marriage you must present me with three dresses: one as golden as the sun; the second, silvery as the moon; the third must shine with the light of a million stars. In addition to these, I require a cloak made from a thousand kinds of fur. One of every kind of animal in this kingdom must give a piece of his skin for this cloak. If you can present me with these items in three days time, I will accept you as my husband."

Kaoru watched the king intently as he considered the price she demanded. She knew he could not accept; it would be impossible for him to fulfill the price within the allotted time. The Council's chamber was eerily silent as all waited with bated breath for the king's answer.

Deep, soft laughter was soon heard, and Kaoru saw that the king's shoulders shook with mirth.

"You are a shrewd one, aren't you, little princess?" he asked, chuckling. "Dresses? Cloaks? I don't remember you being such a vain child, Kaoru. Let this Council be witness: I, Koushijiro Kamiya, accept the Princess Kaoru's terms!"

Kaoru stared at her father stunned. "Y-You accept?" she stammered.

"Yes, Kaoru. Your hand is worth any price you set. The items you require will be presented to you in three days time, after which we will be married."

Too stunned to reply, Kaoru merely bowed her head in acceptance and turned to leave the room. She stood tall as she walked past the Council, but the moment she was safely outside the closed doors, she collapsed against the wall, covering her face and sobbing into her hands.

xxx

AN: Thank you for reading. This chapter was written for the LiveJournal community, 100_fairytales, prompt #71 – The Devil's Contract.