((An: AHGGGG I went to like 3 stores to try and find the new RK action
figures. I want the Aoshi figure DAMN IT! If you have a Gamestop or any
other anime action figure related store nearby GO AND GET ONE!!! They have
Battousai, Hiko, Soujiro, Aoshi, and Shishio. The first set had Saitou!!!
But yea...This is again an alternate pairing. For all you Aoshi Misao fans
Gomen! I like the idea of that couple too but...for now...this story stays as
is!
Once again thanks to Buffybot76 who prereads most of my crappy fanfiction. If you haven't read HER fics you should!
** are for thoughts and for emphasis on words
Ooh! Japanese words that's people might not know!
Shouji- the cool paper made doors that have inlays of wood panels and junk.
San- Polite tag ending to a name. If you don't use one your being impolite
Itachi- Weasel
Ne- Right? It goes at the end of a sentence
Tabi- split toed socks that the Japanese wear *giggle*I have a pair of my own!
Baka- Fool, idiot
Shimatta- damn it
Ohayou- Good morning (Informal)
Gomen nasai- I'm sorry (semi formal) ))
Misao tossed and turned in her futon. The sun was already well out and in her eyes. Technically she was supposed to get up long before now, but she didn't want to. She hadn't slept well last night. She kept thinking about what Aoshi and Okina had said to her. About growing up and acting like a woman. About her "pretending to be a ninja". Was she pretending? She looked back on her actions and flushed burying her head deeper into the pillow. So they'd been right about her actions. She shouldn't have been provoked into battle by such a low class ruffian. That fight wouldn't have even started if Misao had simply brushed by him.
*BUT he had punched her!* Her mind screamed! But she shouldn't have reacted with violence. Aoshi wouldn't have cared if it had been him. Aoshi would've dodged the punch. *But you're not AOSHI!* Misao sighed wiping away a few unbidden tears. It seemed like everything she was would have to be oppressed if she were to "Grow up". But how could that be? She liked the way she was just fine! How could she grow up if it meant loosing everything that she was in order to be some silent submissive housewife? She would learn to hold her tongue a bit more, and she would learn a little bit of humility and quietness, but she refused to become completely what they wanted for her.
She could hear noise downstairs, which meant people were up and probably expected her to be. She sighed. Rolling out of her futon onto the cold hard floor, she shivered and was on her feet quickly. Unfortunately she'd forgotten about her wounds and covered her mouth to muffle her cry of pain. She was so sore! She slowly went to her closet, to get clothes for the day. She didn't want to dress in her ninja uniform today. Her cheeks flushed in shame. Why did they make her feel so uncomfortable with herself? That wasn't what an Okashira, or a grandfather does!
She did have a few Kimonos....but she didn't know how to wear them. Hmm...she'd have to get Omasu and Okon to help her, but certainly they'd be willing to ne? She threw on her ninja out fit for the moment. She'd change into the Kimono soon enough with Okon and Omasu's help. She needed to fold up her futon and clean up her room a bit more. Since when was she so self- conscious about everything? *since they mocked everything I was* her mind prompted. Scowling, she finished quickly and started to put on her tabi. She'd need to wrap her ankle extra tight to walk on it. She had sprained it before, and the tighter wrappings had worked fine. Besides this sprain was light. Finishing her wrappings and tabi she slid on her sandals, and made her way down the stairs. She hummed slightly to herself but stopped at the bottom of the first set of stairs as she heard Okon and Omasu.
"We don't have any peaches for lunch?"Okon asked.
"Iie Okon san" Omasu replied, not looking as she was busy frying tempura
"That's odd. MISAO! MISAO! WE NEED YOU TO GO SOME PEAC-"Okon had cried before Omasu had clamped a hand over her mouth.
"BAKA! Misao went to go peaches the other day. Shimatta Okon san! Do you really want to send her out again?" Omasu scolded.
Okon gasped. "G-gomen Nasai! I didn't realize-"
Misao had come down the stairs at this point. Biting her lip to keep tears from running down her face she decided to go straight into the kitchen. She put on a fake smile, and pretended to be her usual normal self.
"OHAAAAYOU Okon san, Omasu san, You called me for something?" Misao asked politely.
"Uhh...iie Misao chan w-we were just arguing" Omasu said stuttering.
"They asked you to pick up some more peaches today Misao chan." Okina replied, looking up from his newspaper. (AN:I believe they did have newspapers back then *shrug* forgive me if they don't!)
"That's fine" Misao said shrugging. She wasn't about to let them think she was concerned. "Okon san, would you mind helping me with something upstairs before I go out?" Misao asked.
"Um...sure Misao chan" Okon replied wiping her hands on a towel and following Misao upstairs. Misao nearly choked on the chan part. She scowled, hiding it from Okon as she made her way up the stairs. So even they thought of her as a child.
"What was it you needed?" Okon asked, curiosity getting the better of her.
"I need you to help me put on a Kimono" Misao replied simply.
Okon gasped "B-but why would you want to wear a Kimono?" She asked incredulously
"BECAUSE I do Okay?" Misao replied, flustered.
"Well Misao chan, I will help you, but it's a bit hot for a formal Kimono, so lets put you in a Yukata for today?" Okon said looking through her closet.
Misao had been given several Kimono and Yukata from her mother's wardrobes. So she had all necessary pieces including the fancy and lightly dressy Obi and the hair accessories should one need them, along with the Obijime among other things. With in a half an hour Misao was in a nice light Yukata with all the under robes in place. The Yukata itself was white with blue and pink flowers. She wore a light blue Obi and Okon had clipped her braid in a secure bun and placed a lily barrette in her hair. Misao turned to look at herself in the mirror and smiled. "Thank you very much Okon san." Misao replied, grateful.
"You look wonderful Misao ch- well I guess it would be san now ne?" Okon replied with a giggle. This sent Misao into giggles and the tension around the air broke. It felt good to laugh after all the tears she'd cried last night.
Okon wiped tears from her eyes. "My, My, Misao san, you are growing into a beautiful woman."
"I really appreciate you saying that Okon san, but for now I should go get the peaches."
Okon nodded and wished her well on her trip. Misao headed down the stairs carefully. She wouldn't rip this Yukata. It was her mothers. She berated herself fiercely to walk slowly. Although walking slowly for Misao, was still a quick pace. Okina's eyebrow arched as she came down the stairs. Omasu turned and dropped her pan of rice.
"Misao chan! You look so pretty!" Omasu said recovering the rice.
"Thank you" Misao replied shyly.
"Where are you going Misao chan? Especially in your mother's Yukata?" Okina asked speculatively, and set his newspaper down.
"I was going to go to the market to pick up peaches Jiya..." Misao replied frowning.
Okina sat for a moment, considering. Misao bit her lip; sure that he wouldn't let her out of the house. He waved his hand.
"Go Misao chan" he replied.
Misao smiled brightly and headed for the door.
"But Aoshi must go with you"
Misao nearly tripped going out said door. The LAST person she wanted to take was him. She scowled. Normally she'd rush back in there and scream at Jiya about how unfair it was and how she could take care of herself. However she couldn't do that. It would be "too childish" and ruin the whole point of her wearing a Yukata and making an effort to grow up. She sighed and bit her lip, a nervous habit she'd picked up. She couldn't directly disobey Jiya's orders without serious repercussions. She had to go find Aoshi and bear with him as she picked up the peaches. She couldn't fight in a Yukata anyway, and having somebody there would be helpful. she told herself sullenly, trying to be optimistic.
Aoshi was training. She bit her lip again, wishing that she could do anything except ask HIM to go with her. Making her way to the training room carefully she paused waiting for a good time to ask him. Aoshi was using his Kodachi at the moment, slowly flowing from form to form. Misao watched, awed by how graceful his movements were, even if slow. He was working on his form at the moment, proceeding slowly so that he knew every transitional movement without having to think about it. It was handy in a fight to be able to flow from motion to motion, move to move and react without hesitation. He looked perfect going through each move without flaw.
Misao felt a tight pain in her chest as she watched him. She loved him with all of her heart, but she would never be worthy of him. Misao was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't even hear Aoshi trying to ask her something until he grabbed her shoulder. Misao flinched under his rough touch, but it woke her up and she sidestepped his arm, getting out of his arm's reach.
"G-gomen nasai Aoshi-sama" She gritted her teeth as she called him that. She had to prove to him she was growing up and not some child that stalked him.
"Do you need something Misao?" Aoshi asked again staring at her. She was wearing her mother's yukata. She looked just like her in it, except her mother had been a bit taller.
"I-"Misao started, hating every minute of it.
"Playing dress up Itachi? It doesn't suit you. I wonder who you're trying to impress? " Saitou said, rounding the corner and smirking towards Aoshi. Misao clenched her fists.
"Ohayou Saitou" She replied in a very tight monotone voice. She refused to be provoked. "Now what the hell are you doing here at the Aoi-ya?" Misao replied, walking between Aoshi and Saitou.
"I decided to pay a visit. Did you miss me Itachi?" He replied grinning.
Misao grit her teeth, trying not to bash the damned Mibu wolf over the head. Must not try to kill him must be calm in front of Aoshi sama...damn it Aoshi!!!!
Aoshi stood, kodachi in hand. "What do you need Saitou?" Aoshi asked stepping out of the training area.
"Only to annoy the hell out of Itachi and make sure she isn't doing anything stupid Shinomori. Now put your toys away before I show you how to fly" Saitou ordered, amber eyes glittering dangerously as he hand went to his sword. Aoshi clenched his teeth, unmoving. Misao eyed the two and realized what was going on. She wasn't going to let them duel! She stepped between them.
"You're not welcome here Saitou, however since you did show up so un expectantly and want to keep me out of trouble, you can accompany me to the marketplace to go buy some peaches. Goodbye Aoshi- sama" Misao said taking his arm and continuing to walk.
To say that Saitou was surprised didn't begin to describe the situation. He felt an electric shock go up his arm when she grabbed it. She had soft hands. She was wearing some sort of perfume. Peach blossoms, now that he thought of it. His mind strayed briefly to Tokio who wore a mountain flower scent and pushed those thoughts away. Itachi was most definitely NOT Tokio. Aoshi too was shocked as he watched Misao take Saitou off. Saitou's sharp observations did not miss his startled, shocked and offended face. Saitou, wanting to make the most of his insults, and seeing the effect it had on Shinomori decided to play it up.
"We'll be seeing you Shinomori" He replied winking." I'll bring her back before dark" It had nothing to do with the fact that Itachi had wrapped her soft, small, arm around his, or that she really did look lovely in her Yukata. Or that she smelled wonderful. None at all! They walked out of the Aoi-ya and Misao took her hand back. Saitou smirked. So Itachi was trying to impress Shinomori by dressing up. Stupid girl. Shinomori couldn't appreciate any women, much less a short, scrawny little girl like Misao.
Misao said nothing, after taking her hand from Saitou's which she hadn't really remembered doing until just then. She flushed uncomfortably, and then wondered why Saitou was STILL with her. Why hadn't he fought her? He had gone with her almost willingly. These thoughts made her extremely uncomfortable. She decided she should make light conversation.
"How is your Wife?" Misao asked. Saitou clenched his teeth. *She had to ask THAT question didn't she?*
Saitou didn't understand why she'd taken him. Was this some lame attempt to make Shinomori jealous? What WAS she trying to do by bringing him along? He wasn't sure what her motives were, but at least he could tail her properly, and keep her out of trouble. That was his reason for going with the little Itachi, in a yukata. Tailing her....nothing more.
"Why do you want to know Itachi?" Saitou asked, watching her flush uncomfortably as her anger rose.
"Look Saitou I was TRYING to be nice and make NORMAL conversation. Why what's wrong with your wife Saitou?" Misao said throwing it back at him.
Saitou's eyes hardened dangerous amber. Then they softened back into a bronze gold color. The amused smirk returned to his face.
"I wouldn't know, Last time I'd heard she'd run off with some damned farmer." Saitou replied knowing it would make Itachi uncomfortable. She flushed red with shame.
"Gomen Nasai Saitou. I-I had no idea-"Misao stammered.
"I'm not Itachi, and you usually don't have a clue, so I'm adapting well." Saitou replied.
"Why do you ENJOY making people angry?" Misao demanded, furious.
"Maybe because it's fun? maybe it's so I know what they'll do if they're angry enough? Or maybe I just get my kicks off pissing people off." Saitou replied shrugging. WITH THAT DAMNED SMIRK ON HIS FACE.
"Or Maybe it's because you're an evil sadistic old man" Misao replied angrily. Saitou stopped, his eyes taking on that same dangerous gleam. He grabbed her arm and brought the back of his hand up.
"I should hit you for saying something so insolent....Know THIS Itachi, there are A LOT worse men in this world than me. Hopefully you'll never have to meet those who are truly evil, if you consider me as such. There are men who'd tear you to pieces without a second thought..." Saitou said releasing her arm, but not his piercing amber gaze as he walked on.
Misao flinched under his gaze. For a second she remembered long about something about Aoshi. He had hit her for being so bold once. She never remembered being so frightened of him in her life. His eyes had taken on a similar, but even more dangerous gleam. Saitou noticed the growing space between them and that Misao was walking quicker. Her Ki was finicky. Itachi had been frightened.
"Itachi, wait" Saitou said rolling his eyes exasperatingly. Misao stopped. "Just... don't *ever* accuse me of being evil" Saitou said compromising. Misao nodded.
"I didn't know it was offensive to you....gomen nasai Saitou" Misao said bowing her head.
"And what do you mean by OLD?" Saitou demanded. Misao looked at him and her eyes brightened to a sea foam green. She started to giggle which flowed into laughter.
"Humph" Saitou muttered. "Go buy your peaches Itachi" Saitou said pointing out the peach stall.
"The sooner we get this pointless trip over the better." Saitou murmured, leaning against the side of a stand while Misao purchased her fruits. He handed her a bag, so that she could choose which ones she deemed worthy. Misao flushed, but took the bag and made her examinations of the fruit. After filling her bag, she proceeded to talk with the seller. She smiled brightly as their business was finished, thanking him for his generosity. Saitou's eyebrow arched.
"That man gave me the peaches for free! He said it was because I gave that ugly baka from yesterday such a great pummeling" Misao cried happily, as she balanced the weight of the bag of peaches on her hip. Any idiot could see she was struggling, but Misao just held her head up high and continued on. Saitou rolled his eyes. Itachi was so exasperating. Did she know she couldn't carry the peaches? NO, she'd kill herself trying and end up in a mess on the floor. Saitou nearly groaned at the frustration of it all.
"Do you want to drop your "earned" peaches?" Saitou questioned her, lighting a cigarette.
"No" Misao replied, struggling with them still.
"Then give me the damn bag Itachi" Saitou replied, feeling generous after getting his nicotine fix. Misao flushed uncomfortably.
"I couldn't! I can carry it myself Saitou, I just needed you to accompany me because Jiya said-"
"Itachi" Saitou said, silencing her protests. That explained her intentions. So she hadn't been wanting to make Aoshi jealous. Okina, or as she had affectionately deemed "Jiya" had forced her. Had he also made her start dressing in Yukata? Or was that her own choice? Hmm...Saitou pondered over her appearance. Itachi Had changed. The mental note he had made yesterday stuck with him. And for the better.
"Hai" She murmured looking at the ground.
"Give me the bag" Saitou ordered firmly. She handed the bag over hesitantly, and Saitou carried the burden.
"OH!" Misao gasped as they were about half a block from the Aoi-ya.
Saitou frowned. "What now Itachi?"
"I'm supposed to cook dinner tonight! Ahhgg! Misao how could you be such a baka and forget!" She cried pacing around in a circle quickly. Unfortunately she had forgotten she was wearing a Yukata and tripped, about to fall in a huge pile of mud. Saitou swore, ditching his cigarette, which was pretty much done anyways, and shot out with his right arm, sparing her from the fall. It took her a while to get over the shock of not falling. Saitou sighed and grabbed her shoulder, righting her.
"Geez Itachi, you'd think that with your baka clumsiness, you'd never worn a yukata before" Saitou said lifting the sinking bag of peaches so he could get a more firm grasp on them. Misao flushed a red purple color. She'd never worn a yukata before? THAT was amusing, his typical wolfish grin appeared on his face, as Misao kept her eyes on the ground, still trying to overcome her embarrassment. Then an alarming thought occurred to him. Who HAD she worn that Yukata for if not for Shinomori? Certainly not him? He peered down at her, as her face was gradually returning to a semi normal shade.
"Saitou....Umm...would you mind coming with me to go get some food from the market for dinner?" Misao asked hesitantly.
Saitou rolled his eyes.
"Only if you promise not to trip any more"
"But then I'd have to change!" Misao complained.
"You've got 10 minutes Itachi and then I'm leaving" Saitou said leaning against the wall, in desperate need of a cigarette.
"Eep!" Misao cried, lifting her yukata up a bit to allow more movement...and give Saitou a view of her slim creamy calves, and start to run for the Aoi- ya. Saitou scowled at the thought. What was leading him to think about the little Itachi so much? *Tokio* he grimaced, knowing exactly what was provoking the thoughts. He was still irked about her, but it didn't really matter at the moment did it.
He was still curious about Who she was wearing the Yukata for. Certainly the weasel couldn't have feelings for him. Despite the way he had teased Shinomori earlier, he had no intentions for Itachi whatsoever. *or did he?* his mind echoed. Shaking his head, and taking a deep drag of his cigarette he pondered thoughtfully over exactly what his intentions for Itachi were. Certainly he needed to tail her in order to avoid the fight she obviously planned. It wasn't today, that was for sure. Perhaps if he could keep finding excuses to end up here he could keep her busy long enough for her to forget about her fight.
*As if she would* his mind berated. *She's young, and naïve, not stupid* he had to keep reminding himself. She'd find a way there because she refused to let the honor of the Oniwabanshuu be stained by some false rumors. The fact that she was the "claimed" Okashira of the Oniwabanshuu didn't help. It was admirable what she was doing but she didn't stand a chance against any mediocre swordsman, ninja or hand-to-hand fighter. She knew more than any average dolts...including his police force...(Saitou stifled a groan as he thought back to his police force) but certainly not enough to defeat anyone. That and Saitou didn't necessarily know that these men Misao has fought were average ordinary dolts.
Saitou sighed, continuing his cigarette. His favored foreign habit, he had become addicted to the little fire sticks. For other people they caused serious coughs and hacking. Saitou was certainly not an average ordinary person, so they didn't hamper him. (An: At least not yet ya baka wolf! -_- ') He breathed as easily as anyone else, bereft of the "smokers hack" that people tended to get. He waited impatiently, wondering what was taking Itachi so long. He stared at the sun. It was starting to get darker out, although the sun was still up in the sky. They had about an hour till sun down, and while Saitou didn't care too much about the time, he did want to get Itachi back before dark.
Not 5 minutes later, Misao was running out trying to pull her wrappings around her tabi up, her braid flipping in effort. Saitou flicked her cigarette into the dirt, glad for her to be back in her ninja get up. At least he was used to that. He handed her the bag of peaches.
"OH!" She cried having forgotten about them and took off to run inside.
Saitou made his way down the dirt road back up towards the market place, cigarette in hand, and one on the hand of the hilt of his sword. The orange sun glowed behind him, slowly going down.
"Oi! Saitou! WAIT UP!" He heard Misao cry, scuffling into a run to follow. Saitou grinned. It was proving to be an interesting day indeed.
Once again thanks to Buffybot76 who prereads most of my crappy fanfiction. If you haven't read HER fics you should!
** are for thoughts and for emphasis on words
Ooh! Japanese words that's people might not know!
Shouji- the cool paper made doors that have inlays of wood panels and junk.
San- Polite tag ending to a name. If you don't use one your being impolite
Itachi- Weasel
Ne- Right? It goes at the end of a sentence
Tabi- split toed socks that the Japanese wear *giggle*I have a pair of my own!
Baka- Fool, idiot
Shimatta- damn it
Ohayou- Good morning (Informal)
Gomen nasai- I'm sorry (semi formal) ))
Misao tossed and turned in her futon. The sun was already well out and in her eyes. Technically she was supposed to get up long before now, but she didn't want to. She hadn't slept well last night. She kept thinking about what Aoshi and Okina had said to her. About growing up and acting like a woman. About her "pretending to be a ninja". Was she pretending? She looked back on her actions and flushed burying her head deeper into the pillow. So they'd been right about her actions. She shouldn't have been provoked into battle by such a low class ruffian. That fight wouldn't have even started if Misao had simply brushed by him.
*BUT he had punched her!* Her mind screamed! But she shouldn't have reacted with violence. Aoshi wouldn't have cared if it had been him. Aoshi would've dodged the punch. *But you're not AOSHI!* Misao sighed wiping away a few unbidden tears. It seemed like everything she was would have to be oppressed if she were to "Grow up". But how could that be? She liked the way she was just fine! How could she grow up if it meant loosing everything that she was in order to be some silent submissive housewife? She would learn to hold her tongue a bit more, and she would learn a little bit of humility and quietness, but she refused to become completely what they wanted for her.
She could hear noise downstairs, which meant people were up and probably expected her to be. She sighed. Rolling out of her futon onto the cold hard floor, she shivered and was on her feet quickly. Unfortunately she'd forgotten about her wounds and covered her mouth to muffle her cry of pain. She was so sore! She slowly went to her closet, to get clothes for the day. She didn't want to dress in her ninja uniform today. Her cheeks flushed in shame. Why did they make her feel so uncomfortable with herself? That wasn't what an Okashira, or a grandfather does!
She did have a few Kimonos....but she didn't know how to wear them. Hmm...she'd have to get Omasu and Okon to help her, but certainly they'd be willing to ne? She threw on her ninja out fit for the moment. She'd change into the Kimono soon enough with Okon and Omasu's help. She needed to fold up her futon and clean up her room a bit more. Since when was she so self- conscious about everything? *since they mocked everything I was* her mind prompted. Scowling, she finished quickly and started to put on her tabi. She'd need to wrap her ankle extra tight to walk on it. She had sprained it before, and the tighter wrappings had worked fine. Besides this sprain was light. Finishing her wrappings and tabi she slid on her sandals, and made her way down the stairs. She hummed slightly to herself but stopped at the bottom of the first set of stairs as she heard Okon and Omasu.
"We don't have any peaches for lunch?"Okon asked.
"Iie Okon san" Omasu replied, not looking as she was busy frying tempura
"That's odd. MISAO! MISAO! WE NEED YOU TO GO SOME PEAC-"Okon had cried before Omasu had clamped a hand over her mouth.
"BAKA! Misao went to go peaches the other day. Shimatta Okon san! Do you really want to send her out again?" Omasu scolded.
Okon gasped. "G-gomen Nasai! I didn't realize-"
Misao had come down the stairs at this point. Biting her lip to keep tears from running down her face she decided to go straight into the kitchen. She put on a fake smile, and pretended to be her usual normal self.
"OHAAAAYOU Okon san, Omasu san, You called me for something?" Misao asked politely.
"Uhh...iie Misao chan w-we were just arguing" Omasu said stuttering.
"They asked you to pick up some more peaches today Misao chan." Okina replied, looking up from his newspaper. (AN:I believe they did have newspapers back then *shrug* forgive me if they don't!)
"That's fine" Misao said shrugging. She wasn't about to let them think she was concerned. "Okon san, would you mind helping me with something upstairs before I go out?" Misao asked.
"Um...sure Misao chan" Okon replied wiping her hands on a towel and following Misao upstairs. Misao nearly choked on the chan part. She scowled, hiding it from Okon as she made her way up the stairs. So even they thought of her as a child.
"What was it you needed?" Okon asked, curiosity getting the better of her.
"I need you to help me put on a Kimono" Misao replied simply.
Okon gasped "B-but why would you want to wear a Kimono?" She asked incredulously
"BECAUSE I do Okay?" Misao replied, flustered.
"Well Misao chan, I will help you, but it's a bit hot for a formal Kimono, so lets put you in a Yukata for today?" Okon said looking through her closet.
Misao had been given several Kimono and Yukata from her mother's wardrobes. So she had all necessary pieces including the fancy and lightly dressy Obi and the hair accessories should one need them, along with the Obijime among other things. With in a half an hour Misao was in a nice light Yukata with all the under robes in place. The Yukata itself was white with blue and pink flowers. She wore a light blue Obi and Okon had clipped her braid in a secure bun and placed a lily barrette in her hair. Misao turned to look at herself in the mirror and smiled. "Thank you very much Okon san." Misao replied, grateful.
"You look wonderful Misao ch- well I guess it would be san now ne?" Okon replied with a giggle. This sent Misao into giggles and the tension around the air broke. It felt good to laugh after all the tears she'd cried last night.
Okon wiped tears from her eyes. "My, My, Misao san, you are growing into a beautiful woman."
"I really appreciate you saying that Okon san, but for now I should go get the peaches."
Okon nodded and wished her well on her trip. Misao headed down the stairs carefully. She wouldn't rip this Yukata. It was her mothers. She berated herself fiercely to walk slowly. Although walking slowly for Misao, was still a quick pace. Okina's eyebrow arched as she came down the stairs. Omasu turned and dropped her pan of rice.
"Misao chan! You look so pretty!" Omasu said recovering the rice.
"Thank you" Misao replied shyly.
"Where are you going Misao chan? Especially in your mother's Yukata?" Okina asked speculatively, and set his newspaper down.
"I was going to go to the market to pick up peaches Jiya..." Misao replied frowning.
Okina sat for a moment, considering. Misao bit her lip; sure that he wouldn't let her out of the house. He waved his hand.
"Go Misao chan" he replied.
Misao smiled brightly and headed for the door.
"But Aoshi must go with you"
Misao nearly tripped going out said door. The LAST person she wanted to take was him. She scowled. Normally she'd rush back in there and scream at Jiya about how unfair it was and how she could take care of herself. However she couldn't do that. It would be "too childish" and ruin the whole point of her wearing a Yukata and making an effort to grow up. She sighed and bit her lip, a nervous habit she'd picked up. She couldn't directly disobey Jiya's orders without serious repercussions. She had to go find Aoshi and bear with him as she picked up the peaches. She couldn't fight in a Yukata anyway, and having somebody there would be helpful. she told herself sullenly, trying to be optimistic.
Aoshi was training. She bit her lip again, wishing that she could do anything except ask HIM to go with her. Making her way to the training room carefully she paused waiting for a good time to ask him. Aoshi was using his Kodachi at the moment, slowly flowing from form to form. Misao watched, awed by how graceful his movements were, even if slow. He was working on his form at the moment, proceeding slowly so that he knew every transitional movement without having to think about it. It was handy in a fight to be able to flow from motion to motion, move to move and react without hesitation. He looked perfect going through each move without flaw.
Misao felt a tight pain in her chest as she watched him. She loved him with all of her heart, but she would never be worthy of him. Misao was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't even hear Aoshi trying to ask her something until he grabbed her shoulder. Misao flinched under his rough touch, but it woke her up and she sidestepped his arm, getting out of his arm's reach.
"G-gomen nasai Aoshi-sama" She gritted her teeth as she called him that. She had to prove to him she was growing up and not some child that stalked him.
"Do you need something Misao?" Aoshi asked again staring at her. She was wearing her mother's yukata. She looked just like her in it, except her mother had been a bit taller.
"I-"Misao started, hating every minute of it.
"Playing dress up Itachi? It doesn't suit you. I wonder who you're trying to impress? " Saitou said, rounding the corner and smirking towards Aoshi. Misao clenched her fists.
"Ohayou Saitou" She replied in a very tight monotone voice. She refused to be provoked. "Now what the hell are you doing here at the Aoi-ya?" Misao replied, walking between Aoshi and Saitou.
"I decided to pay a visit. Did you miss me Itachi?" He replied grinning.
Misao grit her teeth, trying not to bash the damned Mibu wolf over the head. Must not try to kill him must be calm in front of Aoshi sama...damn it Aoshi!!!!
Aoshi stood, kodachi in hand. "What do you need Saitou?" Aoshi asked stepping out of the training area.
"Only to annoy the hell out of Itachi and make sure she isn't doing anything stupid Shinomori. Now put your toys away before I show you how to fly" Saitou ordered, amber eyes glittering dangerously as he hand went to his sword. Aoshi clenched his teeth, unmoving. Misao eyed the two and realized what was going on. She wasn't going to let them duel! She stepped between them.
"You're not welcome here Saitou, however since you did show up so un expectantly and want to keep me out of trouble, you can accompany me to the marketplace to go buy some peaches. Goodbye Aoshi- sama" Misao said taking his arm and continuing to walk.
To say that Saitou was surprised didn't begin to describe the situation. He felt an electric shock go up his arm when she grabbed it. She had soft hands. She was wearing some sort of perfume. Peach blossoms, now that he thought of it. His mind strayed briefly to Tokio who wore a mountain flower scent and pushed those thoughts away. Itachi was most definitely NOT Tokio. Aoshi too was shocked as he watched Misao take Saitou off. Saitou's sharp observations did not miss his startled, shocked and offended face. Saitou, wanting to make the most of his insults, and seeing the effect it had on Shinomori decided to play it up.
"We'll be seeing you Shinomori" He replied winking." I'll bring her back before dark" It had nothing to do with the fact that Itachi had wrapped her soft, small, arm around his, or that she really did look lovely in her Yukata. Or that she smelled wonderful. None at all! They walked out of the Aoi-ya and Misao took her hand back. Saitou smirked. So Itachi was trying to impress Shinomori by dressing up. Stupid girl. Shinomori couldn't appreciate any women, much less a short, scrawny little girl like Misao.
Misao said nothing, after taking her hand from Saitou's which she hadn't really remembered doing until just then. She flushed uncomfortably, and then wondered why Saitou was STILL with her. Why hadn't he fought her? He had gone with her almost willingly. These thoughts made her extremely uncomfortable. She decided she should make light conversation.
"How is your Wife?" Misao asked. Saitou clenched his teeth. *She had to ask THAT question didn't she?*
Saitou didn't understand why she'd taken him. Was this some lame attempt to make Shinomori jealous? What WAS she trying to do by bringing him along? He wasn't sure what her motives were, but at least he could tail her properly, and keep her out of trouble. That was his reason for going with the little Itachi, in a yukata. Tailing her....nothing more.
"Why do you want to know Itachi?" Saitou asked, watching her flush uncomfortably as her anger rose.
"Look Saitou I was TRYING to be nice and make NORMAL conversation. Why what's wrong with your wife Saitou?" Misao said throwing it back at him.
Saitou's eyes hardened dangerous amber. Then they softened back into a bronze gold color. The amused smirk returned to his face.
"I wouldn't know, Last time I'd heard she'd run off with some damned farmer." Saitou replied knowing it would make Itachi uncomfortable. She flushed red with shame.
"Gomen Nasai Saitou. I-I had no idea-"Misao stammered.
"I'm not Itachi, and you usually don't have a clue, so I'm adapting well." Saitou replied.
"Why do you ENJOY making people angry?" Misao demanded, furious.
"Maybe because it's fun? maybe it's so I know what they'll do if they're angry enough? Or maybe I just get my kicks off pissing people off." Saitou replied shrugging. WITH THAT DAMNED SMIRK ON HIS FACE.
"Or Maybe it's because you're an evil sadistic old man" Misao replied angrily. Saitou stopped, his eyes taking on that same dangerous gleam. He grabbed her arm and brought the back of his hand up.
"I should hit you for saying something so insolent....Know THIS Itachi, there are A LOT worse men in this world than me. Hopefully you'll never have to meet those who are truly evil, if you consider me as such. There are men who'd tear you to pieces without a second thought..." Saitou said releasing her arm, but not his piercing amber gaze as he walked on.
Misao flinched under his gaze. For a second she remembered long about something about Aoshi. He had hit her for being so bold once. She never remembered being so frightened of him in her life. His eyes had taken on a similar, but even more dangerous gleam. Saitou noticed the growing space between them and that Misao was walking quicker. Her Ki was finicky. Itachi had been frightened.
"Itachi, wait" Saitou said rolling his eyes exasperatingly. Misao stopped. "Just... don't *ever* accuse me of being evil" Saitou said compromising. Misao nodded.
"I didn't know it was offensive to you....gomen nasai Saitou" Misao said bowing her head.
"And what do you mean by OLD?" Saitou demanded. Misao looked at him and her eyes brightened to a sea foam green. She started to giggle which flowed into laughter.
"Humph" Saitou muttered. "Go buy your peaches Itachi" Saitou said pointing out the peach stall.
"The sooner we get this pointless trip over the better." Saitou murmured, leaning against the side of a stand while Misao purchased her fruits. He handed her a bag, so that she could choose which ones she deemed worthy. Misao flushed, but took the bag and made her examinations of the fruit. After filling her bag, she proceeded to talk with the seller. She smiled brightly as their business was finished, thanking him for his generosity. Saitou's eyebrow arched.
"That man gave me the peaches for free! He said it was because I gave that ugly baka from yesterday such a great pummeling" Misao cried happily, as she balanced the weight of the bag of peaches on her hip. Any idiot could see she was struggling, but Misao just held her head up high and continued on. Saitou rolled his eyes. Itachi was so exasperating. Did she know she couldn't carry the peaches? NO, she'd kill herself trying and end up in a mess on the floor. Saitou nearly groaned at the frustration of it all.
"Do you want to drop your "earned" peaches?" Saitou questioned her, lighting a cigarette.
"No" Misao replied, struggling with them still.
"Then give me the damn bag Itachi" Saitou replied, feeling generous after getting his nicotine fix. Misao flushed uncomfortably.
"I couldn't! I can carry it myself Saitou, I just needed you to accompany me because Jiya said-"
"Itachi" Saitou said, silencing her protests. That explained her intentions. So she hadn't been wanting to make Aoshi jealous. Okina, or as she had affectionately deemed "Jiya" had forced her. Had he also made her start dressing in Yukata? Or was that her own choice? Hmm...Saitou pondered over her appearance. Itachi Had changed. The mental note he had made yesterday stuck with him. And for the better.
"Hai" She murmured looking at the ground.
"Give me the bag" Saitou ordered firmly. She handed the bag over hesitantly, and Saitou carried the burden.
"OH!" Misao gasped as they were about half a block from the Aoi-ya.
Saitou frowned. "What now Itachi?"
"I'm supposed to cook dinner tonight! Ahhgg! Misao how could you be such a baka and forget!" She cried pacing around in a circle quickly. Unfortunately she had forgotten she was wearing a Yukata and tripped, about to fall in a huge pile of mud. Saitou swore, ditching his cigarette, which was pretty much done anyways, and shot out with his right arm, sparing her from the fall. It took her a while to get over the shock of not falling. Saitou sighed and grabbed her shoulder, righting her.
"Geez Itachi, you'd think that with your baka clumsiness, you'd never worn a yukata before" Saitou said lifting the sinking bag of peaches so he could get a more firm grasp on them. Misao flushed a red purple color. She'd never worn a yukata before? THAT was amusing, his typical wolfish grin appeared on his face, as Misao kept her eyes on the ground, still trying to overcome her embarrassment. Then an alarming thought occurred to him. Who HAD she worn that Yukata for if not for Shinomori? Certainly not him? He peered down at her, as her face was gradually returning to a semi normal shade.
"Saitou....Umm...would you mind coming with me to go get some food from the market for dinner?" Misao asked hesitantly.
Saitou rolled his eyes.
"Only if you promise not to trip any more"
"But then I'd have to change!" Misao complained.
"You've got 10 minutes Itachi and then I'm leaving" Saitou said leaning against the wall, in desperate need of a cigarette.
"Eep!" Misao cried, lifting her yukata up a bit to allow more movement...and give Saitou a view of her slim creamy calves, and start to run for the Aoi- ya. Saitou scowled at the thought. What was leading him to think about the little Itachi so much? *Tokio* he grimaced, knowing exactly what was provoking the thoughts. He was still irked about her, but it didn't really matter at the moment did it.
He was still curious about Who she was wearing the Yukata for. Certainly the weasel couldn't have feelings for him. Despite the way he had teased Shinomori earlier, he had no intentions for Itachi whatsoever. *or did he?* his mind echoed. Shaking his head, and taking a deep drag of his cigarette he pondered thoughtfully over exactly what his intentions for Itachi were. Certainly he needed to tail her in order to avoid the fight she obviously planned. It wasn't today, that was for sure. Perhaps if he could keep finding excuses to end up here he could keep her busy long enough for her to forget about her fight.
*As if she would* his mind berated. *She's young, and naïve, not stupid* he had to keep reminding himself. She'd find a way there because she refused to let the honor of the Oniwabanshuu be stained by some false rumors. The fact that she was the "claimed" Okashira of the Oniwabanshuu didn't help. It was admirable what she was doing but she didn't stand a chance against any mediocre swordsman, ninja or hand-to-hand fighter. She knew more than any average dolts...including his police force...(Saitou stifled a groan as he thought back to his police force) but certainly not enough to defeat anyone. That and Saitou didn't necessarily know that these men Misao has fought were average ordinary dolts.
Saitou sighed, continuing his cigarette. His favored foreign habit, he had become addicted to the little fire sticks. For other people they caused serious coughs and hacking. Saitou was certainly not an average ordinary person, so they didn't hamper him. (An: At least not yet ya baka wolf! -_- ') He breathed as easily as anyone else, bereft of the "smokers hack" that people tended to get. He waited impatiently, wondering what was taking Itachi so long. He stared at the sun. It was starting to get darker out, although the sun was still up in the sky. They had about an hour till sun down, and while Saitou didn't care too much about the time, he did want to get Itachi back before dark.
Not 5 minutes later, Misao was running out trying to pull her wrappings around her tabi up, her braid flipping in effort. Saitou flicked her cigarette into the dirt, glad for her to be back in her ninja get up. At least he was used to that. He handed her the bag of peaches.
"OH!" She cried having forgotten about them and took off to run inside.
Saitou made his way down the dirt road back up towards the market place, cigarette in hand, and one on the hand of the hilt of his sword. The orange sun glowed behind him, slowly going down.
"Oi! Saitou! WAIT UP!" He heard Misao cry, scuffling into a run to follow. Saitou grinned. It was proving to be an interesting day indeed.