Chapter 11
Here it is guys! The next chapter to this saga! I'll admit it, this one won't be exactly what you're expecting but that just makes it all the better. I should have written this chapter a little sooner than I have.
Hope you guys like it!
…
"I'd like to report my cute, beautiful, and helpless daughter missing, and two deaths." Much to Hijikata's shame, he had taken a huge hit to his pride. On that day, which was known as the Shinsengumi's Day of Destruction, Hijikata Toshiro, feared Demon Vice Commander, shit himself.
When Shinpachi woke up, the first thing he expected to see was a field of flowers and his father. He knew exactly what he would say when he saw the samurai, "I'm going to kill you for leaving your kids with a debt! You smelly Othello-playing-old man!" So when Shinpachi woke up and found himself in a familiar pink apartment, tied up in front of a furious Umibozu and Sadaharu, he knew that being with his father in the afterlife would be far better.
Umibozu sat rigid on Kagura's surprisingly clean white couch, his arms crossed and foot tapping impatiently. Sadahura sat beside the old alien sweeper, glaring down his nose at the men he used to rely on. Shinpachi struggled to sit up but with his arms tied to his torso and his legs bound, it was difficult, but after a few minutes he somehow managed to sit up with a grunt. Umibouzu never acknowledged Shinpachi's consciousness so the bespectacled model took in the rest of his surroundings.
Kagura never let anyone into her apartment surprisingly, save for Gintoki who broke in, and Shinpachi respected her decision without question on the occasions she refused to let him inside. Kagura's apartment was larger than the Yorozuya. The den was definitely bigger in size with two large white couches and a matching love seat. One side of the common room opened up into the entire kitchen, fit with new shiny modern appliances. A hall off to the side led to what was sure to be the bedroom, bathroom and laundry rooms. House plants dotted throughout the apartment gave the home life and fresh air.
Shinpachi looked to his left and found Hijikata sitting on the dark wooden floor, as formal as ever with his legs tucked beneath him as his hands rested on his knees. Immediately Shinpachi noticed something off about the proud officer. He wasn't relaxed which was reasonable considering that the strongest man in the universe is angry at him. He did not have a cigarette in his mouth or his usual scowl in place. Hijikata's head was down, looking just like a punished child from his downward gaze to his out of place sweatpants.
Shinpachi stared at the officer, baffled at what he was seeing. He continued to stare, wanting to say something to the man but not exactly sure how. When Shinpachi finally managed to collect enough confidence to ask, he fumbled with the words.
"Um . . . Hijikata-san?" He started. "W-why are you w-wearing sweatpants?" Hijikata's quick jerk at the question only raised Shinpachi's curiosity. The stoic Vice Commander turned his head away from Shinpachi, mumbling something along the lines of an apology. Figuring that he was getting nowhere with the older man Shinpachi turned his attention to the right and screamed.
A mosaic lay on the floor to Shinpachi's right. The unidentified mass consisted of various shades of red, black and the occasional patch of white. The eyewear model continued to scream and inch away from the mass when the mosaic form groan and moved.
"It's alive!" Shinpachi shrieked as he began to kick at it. "Stay away from me!"
The groaning and movement from the blob only continued with the kicking until is suddenly sat upright screaming, "Enough already, Shinpachi-kun!"
The young samurai stopped kicking as he looked at the figure, scared and confused. "Gin-san?"
"Yes! It's me, Gin-san! You don't have to kick me dammit!"
Shinpachi stared at the red, pixelated form of the man he looks up to with tears brimming in his eyes. "W-what happened to you?" he asked.
"I can answer that for you." A strained voice chimed in.
The two samurai turned their attention to the large man sitting on Kagura's couch. He had changed positions while the two were talking. Both of his arms were no longer crossed and instead lounged on the back of the couch with one leg resting over the other. As he glared down at the two men, Shinpachi could not help but feel that Umibouzu looked like a mob boss out of a movie.
"Now that I have all of your attention." The Yato began. "You can help answer some of my questions. Where is Kagura-chan?" He growled out along with Sadaharu.
Hijikata looked to his right at the two Yorozuya workers, furious that their inability to keep track of a girl was the reason why he had been dragged along. Gintoki the mosaic looked out the window, nervously whistling while Shinpachi looked anywhere but at the large man sitting before him.
Ignoring the lack of response to his questions Umibouzu continued talking.
"I came back to this dreadfully sunny planet to celebrate a late birthday with my daughter, so when I come to her apartment I am not greeted by my beautiful Kagura-chan but a starved Sadaharu-kun." Umibouzu explained, patting Sadaharu on the head in reassurance when he began to whine. The Yato turned his attention back to the men in front of him. "So I went to the Yorozuya." He stated distastefully. "And found the no good glasses boy alone, apologizing about a missing Kagura-chan."
Shinpachi had no choice but to chime in at that point. "YOU THREW A CAR THROUGH THE SIDE OF THE BUILDING! OF COURSE I WOULD APOLOGIZE!"
"So I went to the police and found that the other guardian was hiding from me there." When Umibouzu's gaze swept over the men and landed on Gintoki, the mosaic began to shake and sweat profusely. "After dealing with the irresponsible guardians I enlisted the help of the Shinsengumi to find Kagura-chan." He waved a hand absentmindedly at the sitting officer.
Gintoki and Shinpachi swiftly turned their gazes at Hijikata, who sat straight as a board as he looked ahead.
"So," Umibouzu began. "if you do not find Kagura-chan by the end of the day, you can kiss this miserable planet goodbye." He growled.
"Now wait a damn minute!" A new voice butted in. Shinpachi and Gintoki looked towards Hijikata in horror, who stared defiantly at Umibouzu. "I have enough on my plate at the moment, what with the Shinsengumi compound now completely destroyed, Kondo-san's wedding and a missing Captain. I can't be looking for your stupid daughter too."
Umibouzu turned his gaze towards the Demon Vice Chief. "So you'll allow the destruction of the entire planet because you were too busy to look for a young defenseless girl. Don't you have dozens of subordinates who can help?"
Hijikata laughed. "Defenseless? Have you met your daughter? She is one of the most dangerous people in Edo and is equals to the strongest man in the Shinsengumi. That China girl alone has given me plenty of trouble and it's because of her that Sougo has been giving me even more trouble than usual!" The officer ranted. "For the last few days I have had to not only do mine and Kondo-san's paperwork but Sougo's as well! I need to look for my First Division Captain!"
Shinpachi and Gintoki stared at the mayora in terror, their worst fears come true. Shinpachi leaned over towards Gintoki as best he could.
"Gin-san!" He whispered. "I was right, Kagura-chan must have ran off with Okita-san!"
"Shh~! Shinpachi-ku~n, do you want us to die!" Gintoki whispered back. However their conversation did not go unnoticed by the irate father. Umibouzu turned his attention from the stubborn officer towards the arguing duo.
"What exactly where you right about?" He asked. Shinpachi squealed, apologizing profusely while Gintoki continued to quiet the eyewear model.
"I'm sorry! The other day when we discovered Kagura-chan was missing we thought that she had run off with Okita-san because the tension between them was unbearable, and there was the rumors around town, and the fan club! We thought one of them finally cracked and confessed!" Shinpachi revealed, scared for his life.
"You dumbass!" Gintoki shouted. Hijikata hung his head in his hands as he thought of the gruesome ways he would die, either by Sougo's devil spawn, or the protective father who happened to be celebrated as the strongest man in the galaxy.
Umibouzu looked between the three Earthlings, perplexed at their behavior until he recounted what Shinpachi had said. Confusion turned to white hot anger. He quickly stood to his feet, large umbrella in hand.
"I don't know who this Okita is but if he lays one hand on my beautiful princess!" The Yato spit. "I'm going to destroy this planet to the point that this solar system will be declared a forsaken area!" He began to rush towards the door, Sadaharu following close behind.
Just as the deranged man was about to reach the door he was intercepted by Hijikata. With his arms outstretched, fully blocking the door the officer successfully prevented Umibouzu from leaving the apartment. The tall Yato looked down at the green haired man, his eyes cold and hungry. "Move or I'll make you move." He warned. Hijikata swallowed his fear and shook his head in defiance.
"Just wait a moment Umibouzu-san. We'll go look for the two, okay?" He asked.
"No." Was Umibouzu's swift reply.
"Don't you have a birthday present for China girl? And I'm sure you have plenty of stories to tell her when she gets home, right? Just rest here, you must be exhausted by the trip. We'll go and find her." Hijikata spoke, somehow managing to turn the tall man around and lead him and Sadaharu back to the couch.
When the Yato sat down Hijikata rushed over to Shinpachi and Gintoki and untied them, demanding Shinpachi make the irate man a cup of tea and some snacks, while he made Gintoki clean up in the bathroom. Hijikata continued to placate the man while the others went about doing what they were told.
"Don't worry Umibouzu-san, we'll have your daughter back in no time flat. In the meantime stay here and relax. Think of all the adventures you'll tell your daughter when we bring her home safe and sound." Hijikata managed to remove the dangerous umbrella from the Yato's grip, placing it off to the side just as Shinpachi set a large plate of food on the small coffee table.
Umibouzu eyed the food warily before reaching a gloved hand out and grabbing a sandwich. Shoving the whole sandwich in his mouth seemed to calm the exasperated man's nerves significantly. After swallowing the mouthful of food he leaned forward grabbing a large handful, "I'll give you guys the benefit of the doubt that you will find my daughter. But if I hear no word from you . . ." Umibouzu looked at Hijikata and Shinpachi.
"You'll kill us all?" Shinpachi weakly finished. Umibouzu nodded and went back to stuffing his face.
. . .
Hijikata's shoved a hand into his jacket pocket, furiously digging around until he pulled out a bent cigarette, lit it, and made sure to take an extra-long drag before blowing the spoke out into the air. "I can't believe my luck." He began to grumble. "Of all the things to happen, it was those two hooking up. Looks like I won't be living a long and fruitful life."
Shinpachi eyed the Officer from the side before adjusting his glasses. "With the amount of cigarettes you smoke and mayonnaise you eat it was guaranteed you wouldn't live long." Hijikata shot a ferocious glare towards Shinpachi, not appreciating the remark.
"Anyway," Hijikata continued. "I need to get back to the Shinsengumi. Yamazaki should be there, we could use the help of a spy. I also need to make some calls. I have some of Sougo's hangouts written on my phone, so that'll give us several places to look, I don't' know about your brat though so you're on your own regarding that." The officer opened his jacket again and began rooting around inside before pulling out a small flip phone with the screen holding onto the rest of the phone by a few wires. Hijikata and Shinpachi looked at the phone in surprise. "It should still work if I'm extra gentle." The officer dryly chuckled.
With extra care Hijikata slowly began to open the phone and turn it on. With a press of a button he opened the list of locations when the phone's screen fell onto the sidewalk, leaving the device completely useless. The two looked down at what was once a phone, blinking away their surprise.
"Dammit!" Hijikata cursed as he threw the rest of the phone onto the sidewalk. He proceeded to stomp on the device until it was unrecognizable. "Screw this phone! Screw Sougo and the China brat! Screw Umibouzu! AND SCREW YOU!" Hijikata screamed as he whipped around, pointing a finger at Gintoki, who walked behind them in silence as he enjoyed a parfait. The silver permed samurai looked up from his dessert in confusion. With the spoon still in his mouth he proceeded to talk.
"What's the matter, Hijikata-san? Run out of cigarettes? Are you going through what is called, withdrawal from a dependency?" The borderline diabetic coolly replied. Hijikata screamed and lunged towards the silver haired man.
Used to the antics of his friends Shinpachi was ready and quickly wrapped his arms around the older man's waist, effectively preventing him from committing murder. "THE ONLY ONE WITH A DEPENDANCY IS YOU! I'M SURPRISED YOU HAVENT DIED FROM THE AMOUNT OF GARBAGE YOU EAT TO SURVIVE! YOU'RE A COCKROACH THROUGH AND THROUGH!"
Shinpachi struggled to hold the Vice Commander in place as he squirmed in his hold. Seeing how he was not in harm's way Gintoki began to taunt the immobile officer until even Shinpachi couldn't take his antics any longer. Letting go of Hijikata and allowing him to fall forward from the sudden loss of his support caused the officer to crash into Gintoki, who happened to be standing in front of him, wagging his tongue and pulling an eyelid down.
The two samurai fell onto the sidewalk in a tangle of limbs, screaming curses all the time. The group of passerby who stopped to watch the spectacle of two grown men fighting like children began to disperse with red faces as they covered their ears. Shinpachi began to walk away at a brisk pace, all the while chanting that he didn't know them as he made his way towards the Shinsengumi.
. . .
The Shinsengumi compound was nothing more than a pile of wood, tiles, and plaster. A dozen officers walked about the rubble, digging through the wood for any survivors that may have been in the building when it collapsed, while the rest surrounded the area, blocking it off from the growing crowd of curious civilians and news crews. Hijikata led the group under the yellow tape, heading for a strange officer with fiery orange hair. The Vice Commander walked behind the man and tapped him on the shoulder, gaining his attention.
"Oi, Saitou. Have you seen Yamazaki?" The officer turned around and upon seeing Hijikata quickly began to write down on a large notebook. Shinpachi watched curiously, wondering what it was the officer was jotting down before turning the notebook around to reveal a page covered in writing.
Ah! Vice Commander! We were wondering where you had gone Z. The compound is a mess and some of the men are claiming that it was some Demon God that had come to punish us. But that can't be true. I told them that you love this place too much! Z."
Some men are still unaccounted for so I have some searching the debris now. It's great that you are here. I had a few men run over to the Commander and tell him what had happened and to the local mortuary since we couldn't find any evidence that you were alive! We picked a coffin that was the same off white yellowy color of your favorite food . . . mayonnaZ!.
"HE JUST WROTE YOU OFF AS DEAD, DIDN'T HE!? NO ONE EVEN BOTHERED TO LOOK FOR YOU!" The bespectacled man screamed. Hijikata stood rooted to the spot before the infamous redheaded Af-Ro, shaking with his face overshadowed by his bangs. Gintoki walked next to embarrassed officer, winning smirk in place as he patted Hijikata's shoulder in mock reassurance.
"Don't worry, Hijikata. If it's any consolation we knew you were alive, if only from the nasty smell that's been hanging around you all day." Shinpachi took a few shaky steps back, nearly tripping over a larger piece of wood.
"I don't think that's such a good idea Gin-san." However the advice fell upon deaf ears as Gintoki continued his bullying, ignoring the ever growing black aura surrounding Hijikata.
"Everyone has been ignoring it-putting your feelings first. Look at you, the only reason you could be wearing those sweat pants with your uniform is that you shi-!" Quick as lighting Hijikata had managed to grab one of Saitou's swords from his back and swing around, drawing the blade from its sheath and nearly slicing Gintoki's neck off. The silver samurai managed to hop back just in time to escape any serious damage. Skidding to a stop he brought a hand to his neck to inspect the damage. Blood. Hijikata had managed to nick him, drawing blood.
Gone was the carefree Gintoki and in his place was a very serious samurai. "Oi, Shimaru!" He called out to his silent comrade. The captain looked towards Gintoki, as quiet as ever. "Give me your katana, it's time I put this dog in his place, right where we left off from earlier today." With a silent nod the Captain of the Third Division slowly drew the last katana from its sheath and tossed it to Gintoki, who expertly caught the flying weapon with experienced ease.
"G-guys?" Shinpachi stuttered. "Now is NOT the time to be fighting like usual!" He shrieked. "We have to find Kagura-chan and Okita-san before Umibouzu get too impatient." Once again his pleas fall on deaf ears as Hijikata and Gintoki slowly inch towards each other, the crunch of gravel under their boots echoing before they launched towards each other, kicking up dust as they yelled their battle cries.
"Vice Commander~!" Came a familiar timid voice. "I've been looking for you!" Shinpachi looked up, a small ray of hope shining through his gloomy attitude. Coming around a nearby fire truck that sprayed water over the wreckage was a happily waving Yamazaki. "Vice Commander~!" He yelled once again as he approached closer and closer, blind to the battle he was walking in on.
Shinpachi brought a hand out, worried for a common ally. "Yamazaki-sa~n! Watch out!" The Shinsengumi spy came to a jarring halt. He looked over at Shinpachi, confused.
"Oh! Hi Shinpa-AAAARRGH!" He screamed in pain.
"GET OUTTA THE WAAAAAY!" Gintoki and Hijikata yelled together as they punched Yamazaki, sending him flying into a large pile of ceramic tiles with a crash and clatter as they fell over his limp body.
Shinpachi dashed over to the two bickering men and quickly knocked sense into them with a swift punch over the head-followed by an immediate apology to the Demon Vice Commander. "Will you two get a grip? We have more important things to do, like not dying!" He began to lecture. "Act your age, you're both adults with important duties and ideals to uphold. We came here for a reason so let's just get this over with so that we can go about finding Kagura-chan and Okita-san! Then when the planet is saved you can finish you're immature fight!" With a huff Shinpachi turned around and left Hijikata and Gintoki, walking to his plain and humble comrade with Saitou close behind.
When they had made it to the pile of tiles, Yamazaki was nowhere in sight. Knowing that he was most likely unconscious and unable to move Shinpachi removed his coat and rolled his sleeves up before grabbing a few of the broken roof tiles and tossing them aside. With Saitou's silent assistance the young spy was quickly found and brought back to consciousness. With a cough Yamazaki thanked his saviors and asked what had happened.
Shinpachi explained the whole situation to the spy while he was dusted off by the Third Division Captain. Yamazaki became lost in his thoughts while Shinpachi helped Saitou when the jimmy suddenly jumped up with a shout, "That's what it was! I have to talk to the Vice Commander right away! It's important!" Scrambling towards the fuming Officer and nearly tripping over his own feet Yamazaki dashed to his superior nearly exploding with excitement.
When Yamazki, Shinpachi, and Saitou made it to Gintoki and Hijikata, they were once again butting heads and growling at each other, akin to stray cats. Back straight and with his hand at his forehead in salute Yamazaki began his report.
"Hijikata-san, sir! While I was infiltrating that illegal gambling hall I overheard a conversation regarding the Harusame and the Princess!" Hijikata shoved Gintoki aside and turned towards the timid spy. "What?" He questioned, surprised by the unexpected turn of events. Bringing his free hand up to pinch the bridge of his nose, Hijikata released an exasperated sigh. "Of all the things to happen now, of all times." Looking back to the saluting spy the Demon Vice Commander nodded for him to continue.
Relaxing Yamazaki continued, but not before glancing at Gintoki as he started a barrage of curses when he began to stand up with Shinpachi's help. "W-well, I was working undercover as a waitress-like you ordered-and heard a group of the customers talking about how a division of the Harusame was in Edo asking around about an Oujo-sama. I immediately thought of the Shogun's sister until they said that they were looking for some unbelievably powerful and beautiful woman." Yamazaki stopped to scratch the back of his head as he looked away from Hijikata, directing his eyes towards the two Yorozuya men.
Saitou brought his large notepad out and began to scribble down what seemed like an essay.
Do you have an idea about who it could be? Did you find out more?Z. Yamazki bowed his head in apology as he answered. "I'm sorry, but that was some days ago and only before rushing over here did I learn that they found her, AND WHY DID IT SEEM LIKE YOU WERE WRITING SO MUCH MORE THAN TWO SENTANCES?!"
Hijikata was back to furiously digging in his coat pocket to pull out a cigarette. Lighting it and blowing the smoke he sent a steely gaze towards Yamazaki. "The China-girl's been missing for about a week, same as Sougo."
"What!"
"That's right Yamazaki-san." Shinpachi confirmed. "We're kinda on a mission to find the two of them by the end of the day, otherwise Umibouzu-san will destroy the planet and we came here looking for you."
"This is terrible! Do you think that the Harusame were looking for her?" Yamazaki asked. "She is beautiful, and scary strong."
Hijikata took another drag before looking up into the clear blue sky. "I don't think so, after all, the China-girl doesn't have any real connection to the Harusame, right?" He questioned as he looked over to the Yorozuya, only to bite his cigarette in annoyance.
Gintoki and Shinpachi had managed to slink away unnoticed towards the caution tape and were about to leave when a simple command from Hijikata had them surrounded by Shinsengumi. Now kneeling before Hijikata and with swords pointed at their necks the duo were forced to reveal what they know.
"What the Hell is going on?" Hijikata asked.
"W-well . . ." Shinpachi began until he was interrupted by Gintoki. "I want a lawyer present."
"You don't get one, at this point you're just a terrorist and they don't get lawyers."
"Wha-! I PAY TAXES JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE!"
"YOU DON'T PAY TAXES!"
"ENOUGH! Let's just tell them Gin-san." Shinpachi yelled, tired of all the fighting. "Kagura-chan has an older brother, who is apparently a big shot in the Harusame." He hung his head, worried about Kagura and what could be happening to her if she was in fact abducted by her brother. Hijikata relaxed slightly as he looked at the depressed boy.
"Can Umibouzu confirm this?"
"Probably."
Hijikata began commanding his men to team up and begin searching for any clues that may confirm everyone's newfound theory. "If the China-brat really was kidnapped by the Harusame there should be witnesses to the battle, the kid isn't going to go without a fight! That means there should be uncharacteristic damage somewhere in the city as well, find them! I also want another group to head towards the terminal. No ship can enter or leave this city without them knowing." Turning back to the men on the ground he continued, "You two are with me. We still have to find Sougo, and it wouldn't hurt to search for your brat as well in case she wasn't kidnapped."
Shinpachi looked up at the mayonnaise loving man, tears in his eyes. "Thankyou!"
"And Yamazaki?"
"Yes, Vice Commander?"
"Get me a new uniform and sword."
. . .
Shinpachi, Gintoki, and Hijikata stood outside the familiar gated entrance to the Shimura's dojo, staring at the large wooden doors. Shinpachi stood at the front of the trio shaking.
"Oi, Shinpachi?" Gintoki asked. "Why are we here at the gorilla den?"
"Isn't that obvious, we're coming here for Kondo-san's advice. He's known Sougo the longest so he knows where the sadistic brat would be." Hijikata answered as he stuck his hands into his newly acquired pants. Gintoki held his chin as he began to nod.
"I see, I see. And that gorilla woman knows everything about Kagura, we're hitting two birds with one stone." He spoke sagely. "Smart thinking, Shinpachi." However the two men did not notice Shinpachi reach a shaky hand for the gate or when he walked onto the dojo grounds with weak steps. The trio walked in and stood before one of the many shoji when Shinpachi finally called out.
"A-aneue? Are you here?" The heavy thumping of feet and the slam of a sliding door was heard and soon Kondo appeared standing before them, his eyes a river of tears.
"Shinpachi-kun! Toshi! You're all okay!" He cried as he dove for the two, enveloping them in hugs and snot. "When I was told about the headquarters and you dying Toshi, I thought I would be planning the funeral instead of my wedding! I'm so glad you're both okay!" Kondo continued to cry onto Shinpachi and Hijikata, ignoring their cries and pleas. Gintoki walked pass the scene, took his boots off and continued inside towards the kitchen in the hopes of finding an edible snack.
Thirty minutes and a crying session later everyone was sitting down at the table with tea and dark matter. Kondo sat next to a smiling Otae, fawning over her very existence while the three remaining men, Gintoki - who was nursing a black eye - Shinpachi, and Hijikata sat across from them, slowly drinking their tea and giving the "eggs" a wide birth.
The Shimura gorilla placed a hand gently on one cheek and smiled. "My~, what brings you three here? And where is Kagura-chan and Okita-san?" Gintoki began to sip his tea while Shinpachi played with the hem of his coat, leaving Hijikata to answer the she demon.
"Well you see, Okita and the China-girl are missing, have been for about a week and we were wondering if you guys could tell us anything you know? Even where they like to hang out at."
Kondo burst into laughter, slapping his knee while Otae began to squeal. "I knew my boy had it in him!" Kondo cheered.
"Wait till everyone hears about this at the next meeting!" Otae cheered with glee. Shinpachi hung his head in his hands while Gintoki and Hijikata stared at the two gorillas across from them in confusion.
"What are you two gorillas on about now?" Gintoki asked.
"What do you mean by that, Kondo-san?" Hijikata questioned his superior.
Kondo scratched the back of his head, unable to tame his toothy smile. "A few months ago Sougo came to me for advice about this "illness" he had. Turns out he was head over heels in love with the China girl. Can you believe it? Our boy fell in love! If Mitsuba was here now she would be partying and planning a wedding."
"A BLOODY WEDDING!" The visitors yelled. Gintoki and Hijikata turned a suspicious gaze towards Otae, prompting her to explain herself.
"Well, I run a fan club about those two and have a betting pool going for how and when those two finally confess and get together. Apparently after watching those two interact with each other for years and how they turned out everyone decided that they were perfect for each other."
Gintoki stood up, planting a firm foot on the table as he pointed a finger at Otae. "Are you trying to kill us all!? Don't you remember the last time that Kagura got a boyfriend? Do you know her dad is here, ready to destroy the planet if we don't find those two!? AND YOUR HAPPY ABOUT A BETTING POOL YOUR STUPID FAN CLU- wait a minute." Gintoki slowly turned his head towards his subordinate, who tried to disappear within the ball he was curling himself into.
"Shinpachi-ku~n, if I remember correctly you mentioned a fan club to Umibouzu earlier today." Hijikata jumped to his feet, furious.
"Are you kidding me!? You knew about all this!?" The mayora screamed, drawing his sword and pointing the blade at the cowering model. "Commit seppuku, right now."
Shinpachi began to panic, shaking his head and waving his arms around as he tried to explain himself. "Wait-wait-wait, it was all harmless gossip! Because of the betting pool and Aneue's cheating she got Kagura-chan that job that she really needed! And we know they didn't run away together, so the club doesn't matter anymore!"
"Tch! Your right." Hijikata and Gintoki conceded. Hijikata turned back to his commander. "Kondo-san, do you happen to know where Sougo might be? He's been missing for a while now and we could use his help."
Kondo rubbed his chin in contemplation before turning back to his old friend. "I haven't seen Sougo since I tried to get him to come with me to one of the festivals with Otae-san. Said he would rather work than be a gorilla keeper- WHICH REALLY HURT MY FEELINGS!"
"No one cares about your feelings." Gintoki spit back. "We have more important things to deal with, like the chance that Kagura was kidnapped by pirates!" Otae's carefree expression turned to worry as she turned to her younger brother.
"What does he mean, Shin-chan? What happened to Kagura-chan?" Shinpachi fidgeted in place, looking anywhere but at his sister.
"W-well, Kagura's been missing since the festivals and she may or may not have been taken by the Harusame. We're looking around the city in the hope that she just ran away."
"Why didn't you guys say all that in the first place?! I'll help anyway I can!" She spoke, bringing a fist up in determination. "Since Kagura-chan lost the job I got her it's the least I can do!"
"WHAT!"
. . .
In the heart of Edo's business district where the most powerful and wealthy companies house their headquarters was a particular building with shiny windows, giant golden lion statues and two very large and muscular tattooed doormen. Hijikata, Gintoki, and Shinpachi sat in the patrol car across from the building trying to come up with a plan of action. Hijikata brought the binoculars from his eyes and spit his cigarette out onto the street.
"Why the Hell are we here looking for that China brat of yours? She couldn't even afford to walk on this street's sidewalk, let alone have any business with this company."
"Because Hijikata-ku~n, we went to all the different ramen stands and adult stores that sadist brat of yours likes to hang out at." Gintoki growled before smugly praising Kagura. "My daughter sure is going places. Look at his street, all of these are really pricy companies. Bet even the janitors wear designer suits."
Hijikata brought an elbow out, hitting Gintoki's nose. "Oops."
"Bastard! You did that on purpose!" Gintoki cursed before lunging at Hijikata and trying to strangle him with the binoculars cords. Shinpachi sighed, already used to their increased bickering. He continued looking at the building and its shady doormen. For the last hour the three of them have been staking out the building, hoping for any particularly suspicious people to enter the building.
"Why does Kagura-chan come here? And always the first Monday of the month." He wondered aloud. Shinpachi watched as another lavishly dressed amanto entered the building followed closely behind by his guards.
"Wait a damn minute!" Hijikata yelled, kicking Gintoki out of the car and onto the sidewalk. "I've seen that guy! He's wanted for drug trafficking!" Shinpachi turned his head towards the Vice Commander, worry evident on his face.
"What's Kagura-chan doing here then!?"
"Hell if I know, but we're going to find out. Let's go!"
Leaving the car and rushing across the street to the building, Hijikata and Shinpachi were almost through the doors when they were met with the large meaty hands of the burly doormen. They were picked up by the back of their coats and brought face to face with their captors.
"The 'ell you guys doin' 'ere?" Hijikata's doorman asked.
"Put me down!" He commanded. "I am the Vice Commander of the Shinsengumi and by holding me here you are impeding an investigation!" The large men laughed as they tossed Hijikata and Shinpachi away from the door before stepping closer together, standing before them and the entrance.
"You got a warrant?" The other asked.
"No!" Hijikata answered. "Don't need one, not when I've seen a criminal walk through those doors." He retorted, his usual scowl turned into a smug grin until it fell when the doormen looked at each other and laughed.
"Ain' no crim'nals been 'ere. Righ', B-san?"
"That's right, A-san."
Shinpachi jumped up, drawing his sword. "Let's us through right now, or else." He threatened. A-san and B-san looked at Shinpachi in surprise before they doubled over in laughter. Shinpachi's face became red from embarrassment as he lowered his sword, ashamed that he was in no way threatening.
"Oi! Watch out!" Hijikata warned. Shinpachi looked up in time to see a large ring covered fist flying towards him. Out of reflex his shut his eyes waiting for the hit that never came. When he opened his eyes out of curiosity he found Gintoki in front of him, his trusty bokuto holding the large fist back.
"The 'ell are you s'pose to be?" A-san questioned, struggling to bring his fist forward. Gintoki smiled up at the large man. "Me? I'm just a delivery boy." He answered before knocking the fist back and leaping forward, ready for a fight.
Hijikata and Shinpachi stood by and watched the fight, occasionally flinching in pain or covering their ears from the shrill screams and cries of pain. Just as soon as the fight started, it had ended. Gintoki skidded to a halt face down on the sidewalk before their feet, a broken and bloody mess.
Shinpachi and Hijikata looked down on the samurai, disappointed.
"After that cool entrance, one would expect that you would win the fight." Hijikata quipped before lighting another cigarette and looking back up at the doormen.
Shinpachi kneeled down in front of his boss, his gentle smile in place. "It's okay, Gin-san. If it's any consolation, your entrance was really heroic." Gintoki could only respond with a high pitched groan of pain.
"Get out of here already." B-san began. "We have a very important guest coming today and we don't want her to see trash in front of our building. This is your last warning." He finished, shifting his eyes up and down the street. Seeing the large doormen nervous peeked Shinpachi's curiosity. He stood up and whispered, "What is today?" Gaining Hijikata's attention.
"It's Monday. Why?" He asked only to have his own question ignored as Shinpachi walked forward, his hands up in surrender.
Both A-san and B-san stepped forward, cracking their knuckles. "Ready fer roun' two?" A-san asked.
Shinpachi looked up at the men towering over him. "No." He answered firmly. "We're here for the monthly payment." The two men stopped smirking and looked at Shinpachi, unsure of what they had heard.
"What?" The doormen and Hijikata asked at the same time.
"I said," Shinpachi began. "We are here to pick up the monthly payment instead of Kagura-san." At the mention of Kagura's name the two large men began to shake in fear.
"W-we had no idea you w-worked for Anee-san." B-san stuttered. "W-we'll tell the Boss right away." A-san ran inside to get the Boss while B-san picked up the beaten Gintoki. "Follow me and I'll take you to the Boss."
Hijikata jogged up to Shinpachi wanting to know what was going on. Shinpachi shrugged and admitted that he found the situation weird until he remembered that Kagura had a thing for crime groups like this, and that the only reason she would come here once a month was for money. And he only knew two people that could make large scary guys like this nervous and one of them has never been to this building. Hijikata nodded in understanding before following the large man in silence to the Boss.
The small group walked through the lavish front hall with its tall ceilings and expensive furniture. They were led to a special elevator that most likely went directly to the top floor and upon entering they stood in an awkward and very uncomfortable silence. After a few tense moments the lift came to a halt and the doors opened revealing a large office surrounded by floor to ceiling windows with shiny black marbled floors. Standing at the end of the office, looking out over the city was an amanto standing behind a pearly white desk.
Gintoki began to gain consciousness and squirm around in B-san's grasp as they entered the large penthouse office. When he opened his eyes and saw exactly who it was he was being carried by he screamed and cursed, punching the large man in the face. Gaining his freedom Gintoki brushed himself off and dashed over to Hijikata and Shinpachi, hiding behind them for safety.
"What the Hell is going on here? Why are we in such a fancy office? This is straight out of a movie. Something bad is going to happen!"
Shinpachi tried to placate the confused and panicking samurai. "Gin-san it's alright. Kagura-chan comes here monthly to collect protection money from them, that's all." The permed samurai did a one-eighty at the word money.
"Well that's my girl, I did raise her right!" He cheered. "BUT NOW SHE'S MAKING MORE MONEY THAN ME!"
"Just shut up already." Hijikata groaned, never letting his eyes stray from the boss's back.
They continued walking into the office walking pass all the white furniture, coming to a halt in front of the large white desk. B-san bowed, and began to speak.
"Boss, these guys are here to pick up the gift in Anee-san's stead." The suited boss nodded his bald green head.
"Good. You can go and retrieve it while I entertain our guests."
"Yessir." B-san stood straight and turned, quickly leaving the room as fast as he could.
Hijikata, Shinpachi, and Gintoki stood in silence before the Boss, wondering what was going to happen to them and who the Boss was exactly. He was definitely an amanto, if the green skin didn't immediately give him away. He was obviously strong, the definition of his muscles showing through his suit definitely made him more intimidating. Gintoki leaned over to Hijikata, his voice a little shaky.
"Hijikata-ku~n? Do you know who this guy is? He's freaky scary." Hijikata and Shinpachi both shushed him when the Boss began to turn around. The three samurai froze in shock when the Boss's identity was revealed.
IT'S P*CCOLO~! The three of them screamed in their heads when he had turned. Green skin, a pointy nose and glare, not to mention the two familiar antennae sticking out of his forehead.
"Good evening." He greeted, waving a hand. "Please, have a seat." He asked as he sat down, pointing to the small white sofas behind the shocked men. "I have B-san retrieving Kagura's gift as we speak so we may as well get to know each other in the meantime."
WE KNOW YOU PLENTY ENOU~GH!
"My name in Daemon II, or Daemon Junior but you can refer to me as Boss." He smiled. "So why are you here this month instead of Kagura?" He asked.
Hijikata leaned forward, his face in a menacing scowl as he answered, "That's exactly what we want to know?" The Boss sat back in his chair, humming in contemplation before he smiled.
"I can assure I run a legitimate business, a rather powerful and busy one. Kagura just happens to be a local business partner helping us expand to the locals. She stops by once a month to pick up new product." He smiled.
Shinpachi stood up in a panic. "We saw a drug lord enter your building and it sounds like your making Kagura-chan deal drugs. Are you making her do that!?" He screeched, the images of what Umibouzu would do to him if he found out popping into his head.
The Boss's eyes widened it mock shock as he put his hands up. "Calm down, its nothing of the sort. It's just protection money is all. We have very valuable customers and merchandise so Kagura, being a Yato, is an excellent mercenary. It's in their blood." Shinpachi was about to open his mouth again when the ding of the elevator sounded and the two large doormen entered the room, both carrying large silver briefcases.
"Here they are!" The Boss cheered, waving his subordinates over. "You can take these to Kagura and only Kagura or we will all be hearing about this, and I don't want that." A-san and B-san passed the heavy cases over to Gintoki and Hijikata, who nearly fell to the floor after grasping the handles. The doormen began to lead the men back to the elevator despite their protests when Hijikata's phone began to ring. The trio was shoved into the elevator and sent back to the lobby.
Picking themselves back up Hijikata answered his phone, ignoring Shinpachi and Gintoki as they began to investigate the briefcases.
"We didn't find out anything, Gin-san." Shinpachi moped. "All we got are these mysterious cases and round about explanations. You don't think that Kagura is really dealing drugs do you? That Boss-san is definitely the leader of some shifty crime syndicate." Not receiving the assurance he wanted the eyewear model turned and, not seeing his boss looked down to find him opening one of the cases. "HEY!"
Gintoki opened the case and slammed it shut immediately. He looked up at Shinpachi, his eyes turned into Yen signs. "Don't worry Shinpachi, there is nothing suspicious with the situation."
"No Gin-san, what's suspicious is your eyes." Shinpachi flatly responded.
"Who cares about any of that." Hijikata interjected. "We're dropping the cases off at China's place and then heading to the terminal. Yamazaki found some information about several ships leaving Edo illegally all around the same time nearly a week ago. We can talk about this," Hijikata waved around him indicating their current location. "later."
. . .
Several police cars arrived at the entrance to the terminal with lights flashing and sirens wailing. A few Shinsengumi officers stood outside keeping the growing crowd of curious onlookers at bay while Hijikata, Gintoki, and Shinpachi spoke to Yamazaki. The Shinsengumi jimmy saluted his superior and began with his report.
"Sir! I went to the terminal like you commanded and asked around. They did keep track of all the ships leaving and entering the atmosphere, whether it was directly or through the terminal. Although the employee I was talking to was new he gave me the reports that indicated the activity over the past week." Yamazaki handed the Vice Commander several papers that he immediately began to leaf through.
Gintoki and Shinpachi waited in silence watching everyone bustle around them.
"Oh! Gin-san?" A familiar voice called out. Gintoki and Shinpachi looked around in confusion for the source of the voice. Walking towards them through the moving crowds was Hasegawa, wearing a blue one piece work uniform and a bright orange vest.
"What are you doing here, Hasegawa-san?" Shinpachi asked. The madao puffed his chest in pride as he answered, "I just got a job here today. I take care of the luggage, taking it to the right ships and stuff."
"Ohh, good for you." Gintoki said. Bringing an arm around the man's shoulders Gintoki leaned in whispering something along the lines of sake and pachinko.
"Gin-san he just got another job, let him try and get this one to last. Besides we have something more important to deal with at the moment. Like a missing Kagura-chan!" Gintoki released Hasegawa's shoulders and clicked his tongue.
"Sorry Shinpachi, your right." Hasegawa looked from Shinpachi and Gintoki in confusion before looking at the multitude of Shinsengumi officers.
"What's going on?" He asked.
"Kagura-chan and Okita-san are missing and we think that Kagura at the least was kidnapped by the Harusame." Shinpachi answered. "We should be heading back to Hijikata-san, he must know something new by now."
"Are you saying it wasn't just some drunken dream them!" Hasegawa screamed as he clutched his hair.
"What the Hell do you mean!?" Gintoki screamed, grabbing the panicking madao by the shoulders.
"I thought I had a dream about the China brat and that super sadist officer fighting a bunch of amanto and then getting taken away. It was right after I left the festival to go back to my box in the park." Gintoki and Shinpachi shoved the madao to the floor and began to kick and punch him.
"You knew about this the whole time and didn't bother telling anyone!" Shinpachi screeched. "Do you have any idea what we have been through today alone!?" He finished as he proceeded to kick him in the stomach.
"I-I was pretty drunk t-that night a-and hungover the next morning." Hasegawa attempted to explain. "P-please, Gin-san." He weakly pleaded, but they fell on deaf ears as Gintoki and Shinpachi continued the beating.
Several minutes had passed and Hijikata finally called them over. Gintoki and Shinpachi stopped the beating and left Hasegawa a broken and bleeding mess on the floor, his essence, his sunglasses, cracked and broken like his pride.
The Yorozuya duo stormed back to Hijikata and Yamazaki, scowls on their faces as they listened to the officer's discovery.
"There was a lot of activity earlier this week but it peeked about five nights ago. Illegal traffic nearly doubled that night. What's more that was the last night I saw Sougo. He had patrol duty in Kabuki-chou so I thi-what's with those looks?" He asked.
Shinpachi and Gintoki both spit onto the floor, their glares and scowls deepening. Gintoki pointed to the mess that was Hasegawa, who was currently being lectured by his boss. "That bastard witnessed Kagura and Okita fighting a bunch of amanto and then being kidnapped. Thought it was just some drunken dream and didn't bother telling anyone."
Hijikata dropped all the papers he was holding as his jaw fell open. He gripped his katana and drew it, his look of surprise changing into one of pure rage as he headed towards the prone Hasegawa.
"ARE YOU SHITTING ME!?"
…...
How did you guys like this chapter? Not what you expected or wanted right? Sorry, but you guys will still have to wait for Kagura and Sougo's fights.
This chapter was completely different than what I had originally planned. I wanted to write them going from place to place looking for Kagura and Sougo until they wound up in the park but I found it too hard to write. This is good though, right?
Please leave a review if you have anything to say!