Normal exclaimer applies, I do not own Bridal Mask or Kenshin. Thanks everyone for reviewing this story so far *does happy dance.* Sorry it has been so long for the update, happy reading ;)
Chapter 10: To Keep This Secret
Shocked eyes take in the scene before her, a slight gasp escaping her lips as the two hold each other's hands like long lost lovers. Not wanting to be seen, the young girl races back home, unsure of what to do now.
At the Local Gisaeng House...
"I was surprised to receive your call so soon superintendent." President Saizuchi states, receiving tea from a woman dressed in a glittering navy hambok with silver accents.
"Leave us," Shishio tells the women in the room, "I almost didn't recognize you."
"Yes, the women did a wonderful job changing my appearance." The man smiles, revealing a gaudy gold tooth in the front of his mouth, hidden by a scruffy black beard and mustache. His once bald head covered with a short black wig, "makes me look ten years younger don't you think?" Suddenly more serious, "and what did I do to deserve the honor of your acquaintance so soon?"
"President Yukishiro wants to continue with our plans for the market. Are you ready to put your life on the line for the expansion of the empire?"
"Battousai can try, but he won't succeed. You will have the deeds soon, the flyers were posted yesterday, and nearly half the vendors have already gotten their loans."
"Good work, contact me when the deeds have been acquired."
"Hai."
The Asuka Hotel...
It wasn't difficult for Kenshin to slip away from the Oniwaban, nobody will be sorry that he's gone, Seta can't possibly expect me to stay there for the entire day... Arriving at the Asuka hotel dressed in a newly pressed charcoal suit with burgundy pin stripes and matching button down, the lieutenant looks around the lavish interior. Spotting a bulletin board, he takes a glance at the various notes posted, each addressed to certain patrons of the hotel.
Without a second thought, Kenshin takes the letter from his pocket indicating that he will meet with the man, and for Koshijuro to reply with a time and a place. Tacking the letter addressed to Mr. Geong Lee to the wall, the officer takes a seat on a nearby couch, pretending to read the newspaper.
Keeping his eyes on the board, an advertisement catches his periphery. Need money fast? Receive a loan with no questions asked. The clipping itself wasn't what caught his attention, it was the image of the man behind it all. Kenshin will never forget that face like a rat, even with a horrible wig and facial hair attempting to conceal his identity. He can feel his blood boiling staring at the man in the picture, what is he up to now?...
Almost missing Koshijuro because of the distraction, it doesn't take long before Kenshin sees a familiar face checking the board, almost unrecognizable with the mustache, but for someone who has been chasing the rogue for months, Kaoru's father is quite easy to spot. The lieutenant can feel the anticipation as the fugitive reaches for the letter, but his hopes are dashed when another man in a suit rushes up, whispering something into the freedom fighter's ear.
Pulling the paper up to cover his face, Kenshin doesn't miss the quick glance of the man he wishes to meet. The two men leave immediately with the note remaining untouched on the board. "How could he know that I am here?" Koshijuro asks when they reach the hotel room. "Are you sure he is the one that placed the note?"
"I'm not positive, but I saw him standing near the board for a while before you arrived." The man pauses, and the woman posing as Mrs. Lee interrupts, "you don't think it's possible that Himura is battousai do you? Could it be that he is just posing as an officer, but is really Joseon's hero?"
"You have been reading too many fantasy stories, there is no way that man is battousai," Koshijuro answers, but is stopped by the ringing telephone, "hello, this is Mr. Lee."
"Kao," his face lights up to the sound of his daughter's voice. "That's wonderful, but nobody saw you two meet did they?" Kaoru's father asks after she explains about her encounter with battousai. "I just want to make sure you stay safe, don't worry."
"This may be the only chance I can call you for a while. The police have lieutenant Himura watching my every move. He must have stepped out, he's been gone for an hour now."
"I see," Koshijuro glances at his comrades, "contact me only if you are certain it is safe. I love you Kao," and he hangs up the phone addressing his associates. "The lieutenant is becoming quite a thorn in our sides, he may have witnessed Kaoru and battousai together."
"How could this happen?" One of them asks, "he is my daughter's new twenty four hour shadow."
Dialing the phone again, "Hello, club Akabeko, Tae speaking."
"Hello Madame Tae, this is Mr. Lee. I was just wondering if Lieutenant Himura is still a frequent visitor of your club."
"Yes, he comes in almost every night."
"Thank you." Koshijuro puts the receiver down, "let's wait and see if the officer continues to visit the Asuka hotel before we take action." The man tells his companions, and they answer with nods of agreement.
Another ten minutes pass, something isn't right... Kenshin thinks to himself, and sees a white kimono with violet blossoms sparkle in the corner of his eyes. Looking over, he sees Tomoe and Enishi walking up the stairs. Sure that he hasn't been spotted, Kenshin sneaks behind the pair, ducking around a corner as he sees them enter a room together. Walking swiftly, 251, he commits the number to memory and leaves the Asuka hotel behind.
Feeling his energies could be better spent investigating a certain bank owner than hovering around the Oniwaban or the hotel, Kenshin heads towards his car. After changing into looser fitting clothes of that of a business owner from the market, with straw hat hiding his features, Kenshin sits in Saizuchi's waiting room.
"All you have to do is sign here," Kenshin overhears the President's muffled voice talking to a man from the marketplace.
"But this says you will have the deed for the store?" He hesitates, and Kenshin's eyes flash gold. "It is just a precaution, only if you can't pay the loan back. But, I'm certain you will have no problems with money with your booming business." Kenshin can feel the skin crawling along his arms at the insignificant man's seedy words.
He can't see the person signing the papers, but knows what happened as he ducks his head to keep hidden from Sano as he walks from the room, money in hand. "I'll be with you in a moment," the president addresses Kenshin as he closes the door to his office.
After a few moments, Kenshin can hear the man talking on the phone, "I just collected the last one," a pause, "yes, I will deliver the deeds to the Sakura House tonight." Closing his eyes to maintain a sense of calm, "come in," he hears from the open door.
With head tilted to hide his face, "and what brings you here today sir?" Kenshin looks up as he sits in front of Saizuchi's desk, "oh, lieutenant Himura. What brings you in?"
"I thought I recognized your face on the ads Mr. President."
"Are you interested in a loan?"
"I'm more interested in your safety, Mr. Saizuchi. What exactly are you up to with your new loan business?"
Unsure if he should tell the officer their plans, Saizuchi figures it should be safe, Kenshin is the most hated Korean in Joseon, what will he care what happens to his fellow countrymen? "My business partners and I are starting a new venture. Those people of the marketplace need money to pay their fines, so we are providing them that money." A slight laugh escapes his lips, "those fools don't realize their loans will cost them their businesses," he mumbles, flickers of gold going unnoticed as he glances at the paperwork secured in his pouch next to the desk.
"That is a very impressive feat to steal that land right from under their noses." A pause, "aren't you worried about battousai finding out?" Kenshin asks.
"That bastard will never figure out our plans, we have already distributed all of the loans. Besides, the drop off point is heavily secured, with ten of the top swordsmen in the area."
"That's good to hear." They really don't suspect me at all... Kenshin can't help the slight smirk as he heads towards the door. "Call me if you have any trouble."
"Yes of course, thank you lieutenant."
Walking from the building with only one thought in his mind, retribution, his heart pumps fast in his chest when a man comes up behind him, "Kenshin?" Turning, the lieutenant finds his old friend Seta looking him in the eyes.
Straightening at the sight of his superior, "hai."
"What are you doing here? Aren't you supposed to be with Kaoru?"
Thinking quickly, "you can't really expect me to spend my time following that Joseon woman around all day? Battousai's not going to just fall in your lap, he will definitely notice the police tailing her, and the circus members if you were hoping that he would just show up suddenly. The bastard's smarter than that."
"Hm, I suppose you are right." Seta looks towards the building he was about to enter, "why have you come here? Do you have a lead?"
"I was just curious about these new loans. President Saizuchi's disguise is almost unrecognizable, but if I knew it was him, I'm sure battousai will know as well. I wanted to find out if he is doing anything that will warrant the bastard's wrath, but he seems innocent enough." Pausing, "I only stepped away from the Oniwaban for about an hour, I am heading back now."
"I see, inform me of anything of importance." Nodding, Kenshin heads back towards his car.
Chong Ro Police Station...
Glancing at the clock atop his desk, almost time for the drop off, battousai is sure to show his face tonight. Then I can finally go back to being a teacher. Seta thinks, almost missing the soft knocking on his office door. Coming out of his thoughts, "come in," he says, and is shocked to see a young girl enter his domain.
Bowing low, Tsubame rushes, "Mr. Hoji told me to come to him with any information about Kamiya Kaoru."
Raising an eyebrow, is she from the circus? "He said that I would be rewarded for any information." It comes as nearly a whisper.
Pulling out some money from his wallet, "I'm listening..."
Deciding that he should have an alibi just incase people should put two and two together, Kenshin drives back to the Oniwaban before taking care of his good friend from the bank. Expecting nothing less, he can feel Kaoru's change in ki when she sees him enter.
"Where have you been?" She asks.
"Were you really worried about me?" It comes as a tease.
Flustered and blushing slightly, "don't be ridiculous. Even someone as heartless as you would wonder when a stray dog loses his way."
Kenshin can't help the laugh escaping his mouth, surprised that he even enjoys this sassy part of his Kao-dono that he never knew before. "Well, be sure that I will always find my way back." Would you let me stay by your side if things were different?
With the moon a glowing orb in the sky, Kenshin sneaks away from watching the performers practice on stage, not really caring that he can feel blue eyes on him as he leaves. Quickly changing, battousai races his horse to Saizuchi's storefront, hoping to catch the man before he leaves for the drop off.
Seeing movement inside, Kenshin makes his way into the skinny man's office, blending with shadows not to be seen. Grabbing his satchel, Saizuchi turns with a start when he feels a whiz of something flying by his ear. Kenshin can't help the satisfaction of bringing fear into this worthless man's heart as the poorly disguised president drops his bag on the desk in front of him.
Eyes widening at the omen of death written to the side of his face, the man stutters, "please, please don't kill me."
With sakabatou outstretched, Kenshin's voice is low, menacing, "Saizuchi, your greed knows no bounds. For selling the lives of your fellow men, I have come to take your life."
"I thought you might say that." The man laughs, "Fuji!" He yells, and Kenshin can feel the room get darker as another person enters, blocking any light from the hallway. Glancing behind him, any other person might cower in fear to this eight foot beast of a man with enormous katana at the ready. "I have no qualms with you. I am not sure what your association is with this man here, so your life will be spared," battousai pauses, voice much darker than his usual self.
"But be assured, if we are to meet again," with one swing, the mammoth man is taken down, leaving him a crumpled heap on the ground. Raising his sword for one last strike, "your life is mine."
Turning from the unconscious man, with eyes blazing gold, Kenshin addresses his original target, huddled in the corner. Saizuchi's heart beats mercilessly against his ribs as the demon approaches, "please, please I've got money in the safe. Please, take whatever you want."
Raising his blade, "this is exactly what I want." It happens in an instant, and blood trickles from the strike against the former president's skull, the man falling with a thud against the hard wood floor. Grasping the bag from the dead president's grip, Kenshin looks inside to see that the deeds are all there. After making sure he has what he needs, he places the papers into a pocket inside his undershirt, and slithers from the office, making his way out into the night.
Heading for his horse, his blood runs cold as a familiar voice pierces the air, "battousai." An eerie calm replaces the usual uncertainty lining his best friend's words, "we meet again."
Almost not sensing the lieutenant as he approaches, Kenshin's skill is still far superior to his friend's. Even though they have sparred many times, he was never foolish enough to show any of his hiten mitsurugi style, always holding himself at bay. The fact that Seta is Japanese has always been in the back of his mind, no matter how much he may have tried to deny it.
Two steps below Shukuchi, Seta rushes the man in white, thrusting forward with his blade. Kenshin easily sidesteps, avoiding the hit, parrying with his own strike, connecting with the flustered officer's abdomen, body lurching in pain, but not enough to keep him down. "They were talking, but I'm not sure what it was about," Tsubame's words echo in his mind. With blood lust in his eyes, Seta increases his speed, attempting a killing blow to battousai's neck. Kenshin reads the move without fail, blocking the blade's path, and counters with his own, landing a brutal strike to bruise Seta's ribs. Closing his eyes, the superior officer takes a deep breath, conceding defeat. As if on cue, battousai takes off once again, shielded by the black of night.
Kenshin arrives in a matter of moments at the Oniwaban, and sees Sano outside the main tent. Before the fighter even knows what has hit him, battousai tosses the leather satchel, reflexes guiding the bag into the man's waiting hands. Kenshin doesn't wait to see the look of elation on Sanosuke's face before racing away from the site, far enough where nobody can see him change back into his alter ego.
It seems a lifetime goes by before the performer gets his wits about him again to actually peek inside the bag. Closing it quickly, Sano races into the main tent, grinning from ear to ear. "I thought there were going to kill me when I took out that loan," he mumbles. But, his jubilation is short lived when he sees Himura watching the performers still practicing near the back of the theater.
As if the wind has been knocked out of him, Sagara walks as calmly as possibly towards their Okashira at the head of the stage, a slight smile on the lieutenant's face when he sees the fighter attempting to remain calm. Kenshin finds himself heading towards the front as well, hoping to get a glimpse of the happiness that battousai can bring.
Only two strikes? Seta can't help the tears roll down his face, the image of his brother lying dead on the floor playing back in his mind. "Lieutenant!" Seta hears a concerned Dysuke rushing up, "what happened? I thought there was trouble when you didn't return to the car with the manager."
Helping the man to his feet, Seta's eyes cold as stone even with his body aching, "Get in the car, we're going to the Oniwaban."
Late evening comes as practice finally winds down. Kaoru looks over to Sano who is showing something to Aoshi, not missing the violet eyes upon her when she glances at the other side of the stage. Just as she is going to step off the small platform, there is no mistaking the look of dread appearing on her face when she sees Seta rushing in with Dysuke on his heels.
Sensing the angry ki, Kenshin tries to remain composed, hating the paleness of Kaoru's features. "Everyone on stage!" The incoming lieutenant growls, and the performers gather behind Kaoru, Sano quickly stuffing the deeds inside his shirt. With stone eyes fixed on Kaoru's shining blue, "battousai has attacked and killed President Saizuchi of the Chong Ro Bank."
After the gasps of surprise have subsided, "as I said before, if anyone is thought to be associating with terrorists, they will be interrogated to the fullest extent." Kenshin can't help the fear gripping his heart at the man's words, "but, if someone is to come forward with battousai's identity, nobody will be arrested here today."
"Are you really Seta Soujiro?" Yahiko mumbles, but not low enough to get by his former teacher. Seta is on him in an instant, connecting his fist with the boys abdomen, "Yahiko!" Kaoru and Misao scream, rushing to help the young samurai to his feet.
Standing back slightly, "I will ask again, does anyone here know the identity of the man who killed President Saizuchi?"
Stepping forward Kaoru speaks up, "nobody here is associating with terrorists. On my word, no one here knows the identity of serial killers."
Seta can feel his blood heat, and pulls out his katana, point aiming at the brunette before him with Kenshin's fists gripping reflexively. A moment of doubt passes through his mind, "even when I do this? You can look me straight in the eye and say you have no idea who battousai is?"
Not backing down, "ah, battousai." Eyes clear as the sea, "of course, we all know his identity." Seta feels a momentary pause of relief, and glances at the other lieutenant with eyes that could pierce the hardest stone fixated on Kaoru. Kenshin can't risk looking at his former comrade even though he can see Seta's glance in his periphery. If he were to turn his head, there is no doubt he would pull out his blade and strike down the man for threatening his kao-dono. Just keep looking forward, he thinks as his heart beats rapidly in his chest. "He is the hero of Joseon, the person not afraid to cut down the beasts who steal from our land."
"Seta-lieutenant." Kenshin interrupts. "I was with the Oniwaban this entire time, and not once did I see any encounters with battousai."
Unable to stop the grunt from coming out of his mouth, "this whole time?" Kenshin can feel his face pale, "I should demote you for leaving your post. In that hour you were away," Seta's voice leaves an icy chill in Kenshin's veins, "this Joseon bitch was holding hands with the enemy."
Kenshin can't stop the shocked look from forming, "impossible," he mumbles, and watches Kaoru as she closes her blue eyes from the world. A quick glance at his superior tells him why. Raising his katana, Seta prepares to strike, Kenshin's fingers reflexively gripping his own blade. Sensing that the man will stop short, Kenshin relaxes, a single strand falling from his Kao-dono's locks, leaving a slight scratch on the porcelain skin along her neck.
Keeping himself in check, Kenshin restrains himself from disemboweling his former friend on the spot, and takes a deep breath to calm himself. "Himura," Seta addresses the officer, "bring this bitch to the station for questioning."
Unsure if the edge has cleared from his voice, Kenshin answers, "hai," and bows slightly as he sees Kaoru open her eyes. The brunette releases a held breath, and Kenshin's world nearly crumbles when the tears escape her navy irises. Reaching a slim hand towards the woman, Kaoru slaps his fingers away, "I will go on my own." She turns to the rest of the circus members, trying to stay strong, "I will go with my own two feet." Kaoru nods slightly to Aoshi and Okina, avoiding the look of dread on Misao's and the rest of the troupes faces.
Kenshin can feel his own breathing beginning to become heavy as he trails behind the two officers and Kaoru. Kao-dono... how could he have found out so soon... the lieutenant takes a glance at the stage behind him with only one face standing out from the rest. Only one face that doesn't look surprised by them taking his Kao-dono away. Keshin's eyes spark gold, face hardening as he turns to look again at the flowing black tresses in front of him. Hand gripping reflexively on the hilt of his blade, she is lucky, if she weren't a mere child, battousai might have struck again this night.
The Basement of the Chong Ro Police Station
Grateful that Seta instructed him to remain with the prisoner, Kenshin doesn't know what excuse he would have made to remain by her side. With wrists shackled to a wooden board hovering slightly above her head, he hates to see the fear in those once proud eyes. Afraid to look at her, his heart nearly breaks at the knowledge that this fear is caused by only him, that he will never again see the kao-dono of his youth.
Soujiro's Office...
Removing his coat, Seta heads towards the door, "wait, before you go downstairs lieutenant." Dysuke stops him.
His voice worn and tired, "what is it?"
"I don't know what it means..." the officer stops, "but when you had your blade pointed at that Joseon woman, I saw lieutenant Himura reach for his katana..."
Unsure how much time is left before Seta returns, a slight laugh escapes Kenshin's lips. "Even though I am a Japanese mutt," he pauses with blue piercing violet, "and will do as I am told. Torture when told to torture..." a pause, "when I use force against a weak and young girl like you," another hushed laugh, "I feel dirty."
The false grin leaves his features, voice a bit unsteady, "it will end if you just answer their questions." Kenshin says, but knows his Kao-dono will not reveal anything, even when she really has no information to give. "Don't drag it out. If they hit you, don't think of yourself so highly and resist, just yell." He rushes, not sure if the desperation is leaking from his voice, "if they put your head under water, don't hold your breath," his heart must be racing, "make bubbles instead."
With eyes glistening slightly, the lieutenant takes a step closer, "just look me in the eyes." Kaoru doesn't really know what to think, her mind unsure seeing this man in front of her, concern etched into every facet of his skin. "Look at me." He pauses, but Kaoru still shows no response, "you don't know me?" It comes as a whisper, but Kenshin can't hope to get any recognition before he hears the door opening at the top of the stairs, heavy footsteps making their way down.
Stepping away from Kaoru, Kenshin turns, surprised by the hatred in his old friend's eyes. Seta comes closer, unable to stop his hands from groping at the area between her breasts. Kaoru squirms, "what are you doing?! Don't touch me!" She screams as he finds the leather string holding the dagger that he has been searching for.
Removing the blade from her neck, "do you think I won't be able to figure out who he is?" Seta stares at the inscription on the small hilt in his hands, the brunette looking down, trying to hide her fear. Heart of sword? Seta can't help looking at the other officer in the room, not noticing the tiny beads of perspiration forming on Kenshin's brow. Rushing towards Kaoru, he lifts her chin gently. "Just say anything, anything that you know about battousai, and we will let you go. Just-"
"Even if I knew, I wouldn't tell you!" Kaoru turns to look at the man she used to consider friend, eyes widening when she sees him pull a leather whip from the wall. Blue irises staring back at Kenshin, "just kill me then!"
Kenshin's throat is dry, heart clenching painfully in his chest, "that's what you've been wanting to do all along!"
"Lieutenant Himura," thankful that he can take his eyes from the frightened girl in front of him. "Hai." His voice struggling to stay steady.
"Whip this Joseon bitch until she screams battousai's name..."
Kenshin's world nearly stops, and he closes his lids for a moment before removing his suit jacket. Is this what it means to be battousai?... Is this what will have to be sacrificed... Everything moves in slow motion as he takes the leather rope from Soujiro's hand, noticing the scrutiny under the other man's gaze. With face hard as stone, Kenshin backs away from his Kao-dono.
The look of fear in Kaoru's eyes will forever be etched in his memory as his calloused fingers take their place above his head. The first strike must be the worst, the sound of the CRACK echoing in his mind as Kaoru's slim frame writhes beneath her shackles. Her scream could make blood pour from his ears, but Kenshin was wrong, each hit with the whip is progressively worse. While each strike cuts into tender flesh, his own soul slowly becomes shredded to the core.
Unable to look towards his one time friend, he can't see the shattered look on Seta's face. After only three strikes, Soujiro steps towards the other man, about to make him stop. Both men pause as they hear the door opening from upstairs, a simple grunt forcing the torment to cease. Thankful for this, Kenshin is surprised to see Shishio standing at the top of the stairs.
"Enough," he states simply, "put that wench in a holding cell." Both of the lieutenants bow to their superior with Kenshin unsure if he will ever be able to look at his Kao-dono again... If he ever deserves to see her beautiful blue eyes once more. Is this why mother had to die? Kenshin glances at Seta as he unlocks Kaoru, unable to stand by herself, holding her gently as her feet become steady against the cold concrete. Kenshin remains in his spot with Kaoru's pain plaguing his thoughts as Seta helps the brunette upstairs.
In the Holding Cell...
Kaoru doesn't know how long she has been asleep, having only closed her eyes for a moment. Staring up at the ceiling, it's impossible to forget the coldness of the room she is in as tears flow freely down her cheeks. Even though her predicament seems hopeless, something soft and warm beneath her head brings her back to her senses.
"Shhh," the woman soothes as tender fingers brush the bangs from Kaoru's eyes, "I was worried when they brought you in, but you have only been asleep for a moment." Kaoru's vision meets that of a woman with black hood and dress. A few loose tendrils of long black hair flowing out to frame her face.
Sitting abruptly from her position, the nun no longer cradles Kaoru's head in her lap. Worry mars the brunette's features, "sister, you are hurt," she states, glancing at the slight bruising and cut along the nun's forehead.
"Ah," her voice is soft, "do not concern yourself my child." The woman's slim fingers grace Kaoru's own cheek, "your soul is far more bruised than I."
Sobs wrack her tired frame at the woman's words, and the nun brings her into a warm embrace. "Hush now, your suffering will soon end. God will not abandon us. In time, our land will be free from these monsters."
Sitting at his desk, Kenshin's heart is heavy in his chest, I hit Kao-dono to hide from Seta's eyes... To hide battousai's identity... Kao-dono, placing a hand over his face with lids closing on their own, I even whipped her.
Standing abruptly, Kenshin faces the window, not wanting anyone to see his obvious frustration. His brow furrows as a deep breath fills his lungs. Closing his lids once more, kenshin can sense an officer approaching his desk. His mind seems to work on its own to mask the sorrow in his expression, but it's almost too much to hold his composure with the snickering of Dysuke behind him. "Are you getting feelings for that Joseon woman?" He laughs mimicking the lieutenant reaching for his blade.
Even without the sparks of gold, Kenshin's eyes could kill. "You know, she is a circus performer..." With arms leaning against his superior's desk, "she is probably very flexible."
A pause and the man rises, "well, if you won't take advantage, I'm sure she will easily succumb to a man like me." Dysuke snickers before realizing Kenshin's boot has made sharp contact with his abdomen, sending him a few feet to land with a hard thump in the center of the precinct. Even though the sniveling little man was only egging him on, one can only take so much. Nobody talks about his Kao-dono like that...
Leaving Dysuke curled up and writhing in pain, Kenshin quickly scribbles some Kanji on a piece of parchment, and with a few strides, makes his way to Seta's office. Shutting the door behind him, Soujiro rises from his desk as Kenshin slams the paper down. "As of this moment, I, Kenshin Himura, resign from my duties as an imperial officer." Unable to hide the rage in his voice, Seta's shocked expression has no effect on his friend.
"Do you think I came this far..." Kenshin's voice rises, "to watch some bitch twenty four hours a day?!" A pause, "Is this the thanks I get for supporting the empire, for sacrificing my parents?! To torture a woman you're in love with in place of you?! Because you think it will be fun?! Is this a game to you?!"
Holding up his arms in mock salute, "long live the empire."
When Kenshin reaches the door, he feels Seta's hand gently grip his shoulder. "I'm sorry Kenshin," the lieutenant can hear the hurt in his superior's voice, "you're right... I don't know what battousai is doing to me... I feel like I am going crazy. Please," he pauses as Kenshin turns to look at him, "help me catch that bastard. With your help, I'm sure we can catch him quickly, and I can take off this uniform."
After a moment Kenshin nods slightly, leaving Seta alone in his office as he makes his way to Kaoru's holding unit. With confident steps, he enters the hall surrounded by two jail cells on each side. All are empty save one. He hardly notices the nun hugging her knees in the corner when all his violet eyes see is Kao-dono sleeping on the cold concrete, a slight shiver coursing through her being. Knowing that he isn't being watched by his fellow policeman, he can't help kneeling down to see Kaoru's features.
With throat parched and heart beating painfully against his ribs, liquid forms around his irises on their own as he watches blood trickle from Kaoru's porcelain cheeks. Her formerly white blouse nearly saturated a deep crimson, Kao-dono... Taking a deep breath does nothing to help subdue the ache in his chest, Sessha is so sorry... Regaining composure, he doesn't notice the other woman's scrutinizing gaze as his lids close. After another long inhalation, the lieutenant stands to leave, face once again holding a stone edge to mask his shame.
In Shishio's Office...
"Officer Dysuke reported that the secret service has been keeping an eye on the circus as well," Seta states. "Koshijuro must be back in town then."
"Let the woman go." His father says simply, gaining a quizzical look from his son, "what?"
"If he is back in Joseon, he will surely try to contact his only daughter. Releasing her is the best option to catch Kamiya."
There's no hiding Seta's excitement at letting Kaoru go free as he bows slightly, leaving the office. Calloused hands grip the receiver on the phone atop his desk, "yes, release the nun immediately," Shishio states with a small grin forming on his lips.
With a feeling of slight relief at the news that Kaoru is to be set free, nobody has to tell Kenshin twice when it is his time to leave work. Afraid he might reveal his true identity under his Kao-dono's hurtful gaze, letting Seta take care of her release was an easy decision.
It only takes a few minutes to arrive back at the Asuka hotel's bulletin board. With hands on hips, "why hasn't he picked it up yet?" Kenshin mumbles while looking around the darkened, empty,` lobby. Seeing movement in his periphery, Kenshin races toward a figure fleeing into the night. "Wait! Stop right there!" He yells, "someone needs to meet with your leader!"
Rushing after the suited man outside, "hurry, we have to go now!" Koshijuro and his two comrades race to finish packing their taxi. The man jumps in the cab just as Kenshin sees them take off in the distance with nothing but dust in their wake, a frustrated grunt leaves his throat at this sudden nuisance, how am I going to meet with him now. I can't even keep that promise to Kao-dono...
Club Akabeko
It's a pretty busy night for Kenshin's usual place of entertainment, and he has no doubt it is because of the evening's headliner, Tomoe Yukoshiro. Sitting across from him, Kenshin pours a glass for Seta. Smiling, "to catching battousai" Kenshin toasts receiving a slight, sad, grin from his friend.
It doesn't surprise him to notice the man's shaking hands as a waiter drops off more drinks. Ever since Kenshin joined the police, he has had that effect on people. It's when he notices the man's familiar features that Kenshin takes a closer look at his surroundings. Even in the darkness of the Asuka Hotel, he has always been good with faces, and this time is no different.
Glancing in his periphery, a dark mustache catches his attention at one of the tables on the second floor, Koshijuro. The thought quickly runs through his mind while trying to concentrate on looking happy to spend time with the man sitting across from him.
Thankful for the distractions of the club, Kenshin turns his back from the lieutenant to see Tomoe's alarming stare from onstage. "Mr. Himura watch out!" She screams and chaos ensues. Kenshin could sense the waiter coming with his knife long before the singer ever mentioned anything, it was just a matter of trying to figure out how to disarm the man without really hurting him, but still being convincing as Kenshin Himura, the ruthless imperial officer.
With no more time to think, the man's arm comes down, and Kenshin easily blocks, knocking the waiter to the floor. It only takes moments before two more men in dark suits approach the table with fists ready, but Seta is on one of them in an instant, the other being dispatched without any trouble by Kenshin, making the man tumble into a nearby table.
Glancing upstairs, the men get a nod from Kaoru's father, and take off running out of the restaurant, the waiter, unfortunately, is not as lucky being caught in Seta's vice grip. "Don't worry Kenshin, I will take him back to the station for questioning," and with a slight nod, he leaves club Akabeko with the false waiter in tow.
Looking around, Kenshin tries to find any inclination of Koshijuro's whereabouts, "where are they?!" He screams, and runs outside the club, but only becomes more frustrated at being unable to meet with Kaoru's father once again. Fearing for their comrade's safety, Kenshin races to catch Soujiro before he goes too far with his questioning.
He is certain that he can't have arrived that much after Seta, but with the look of the man in the basement, it seems like questioning has been going on for hours. The sound of the whip echoes in the damp basement, the cracking reverberating off the barren walls. He doesn't know when it happened, when his heart melted from that dark, cold stone it once was, but seeing his fellow countryman being beaten like an animal is almost enough to make him snap. It's something he never wishes to see again, but knows it will not be the last.
Unable to watch anymore, Kenshin grips Seta's arm, "stop," he pauses, "let me do it..." Seta hesitates, "will you be alright?" Soujiro asks, and Kenshin affirms with a simple nod, "The bastard tried to kill me." His voice hard, a slight grin on his lips, "just go upstairs and relax, you've had a long day. I will find out who is behind this."
Without another word, the superior officer walks upstairs leaving Kenshin and the other man alone. As he approaches the captive, "where is your leader," it comes out soft, hoping he will finally find a way to meet with Kaoru's father. The man only laughs, "there is someone who wants to meet with your leader," Kenshin tries again.
It's not much of a surprise that the man doesn't answer his question, but instead the song of the revolutionaries escapes the man's lips. "A million warriors of the new Korean independent army..."
The man's voice rings in Kenshin's ears, "do you know the calling of this mother country," the melody awkward but righteous against his bloody features. "I told you I need to talk to your leader!" Kenshin screams, his heart thumping with each verse. "We are all one with you," the man continues his song.
"What is your plan?!" Frustration oozes from his core, but it's the last verse that nearly brings tears to his eyes. "Let's go, let's go! Let's go and fight."
"TALK, JUST TALK damn you!" Kenshin shakes the man slightly, but his voice only sings louder.
"Let's go! Let's go! Let's go and fight!" Kenshin turns, breathing heavy, "until the freedom bell of the independence gate rings." His lungs inhale faster and deeper with each lyric, "Let's go! Let's go! Let's go and-" His voice is cut off as Kenshin's hand comes in contact with a vital spot near the man's neck, causing him to fall unconscious immediately.
It only takes a moment for the man's eyes to open to haze of gray, wondering if he is simply imagining battousai standing before him, or if he is finally dead. With eyes clearing, the white mask is as crisp as day while battousai unshackles the man's cuffs, and hoists him over his strong shoulder.
In a matter of minutes, Kenshin carries the man upstairs, racing down the hall of the police station, battousai easily takes care of the few policemen in his path, knocking them to the ground with a single blow.
It has been nearly an hour since Seta went to his office, and looking at the clock, it's about time to head home. With an irritated sigh, Soujiro walks toward one of the exits, but quickens his pace when he sees the fallen officers on the ground.
Feeling freedom within his grasp, Kenshin's hopes are nearly shattered when he hears the clicking of a pistol a few feet behind him. "BATTOUSAI!" Seta's voice is darker now, almost unrecognizable, and the masked man pauses with his back toward his friend.
Everything appears to happen in slow motion in Kenshin's eyes as the man atop his back manages to slide from his shoulders, pushing him quickly against the wall. As if in a dream, the shot rings from Seta's gun, and battousai's eyes widen when he sees the prisoner fall slowly to the ground. The words, "RUN!" bring Kenshin back to reality, and he takes off, zig zagging through the inner-workings of the police station with Seta on his heels.
Well that's it for now. Sorry it took a little longer than expected to finish this chapter. I hope it doesn't sound too rushed ;) Hope you enjoyed it, and as always reviews are always welcome and appreciated *jumps for joy and does happy dance* :)
Here's a Little Teaser of What's to Come...
"Father," Kenshin's throat catches with liquid falling from his eyes, a calloused hand resting beside the sleeping man. "As Kenshin Himura, people can't stand the sight of me..." he stops to see the steady rise and fall of Hiko's broad chest, "but when I put on the mask of battousai..." He pauses, "a man died today to save me... No, to save battousai... to save... me..."
"I understand now why you couldn't protect mother, why you had to keep this secret..." Talking more to himself now, mumbling, "I think Sou-kun is becoming like how I was before... Before I knew your real identity. He is slowly going mad."
After a few moments, "will there come a time when I will have to fight Seta?" He can't help the tears from flowing, "when I will have to kill him? Father?" Kenshin shakes the larger man slightly even though he knows there will be no response, "answer me!"
"Will I be able to wear this mask until the end?" After a few moments, dressed as battousai, Kenshin turns to leave, but is stopped abruptly when he feels a warm hand squeeze his own. Looking down with wide, violet eyes, Kenshin can't stop the ridiculous grin from forming on his cheeks at those dark irises staring up at him. He nearly falls over when those familiar words "baka deshi" escape his father's lips...