Hello world! It's been a while, hasn't it? But I'm here, and so is the fifth chapter of my story!
Let's begin! Enjoy!
The night was warm and quiet, but this stillness felt somehow disturbing. It reminded Shizuka of a calm sky right before the beginning of a great storm. She didn't like it one bit, but decided to ignore the obtrusive thoughts and kept walking. She was just returning from an errand. Kondou asked her to check if the reinforcements were on their way, as it's already been a longer while since they've arrived at Ikedaya. The moment she rejoined their group, Heisuke went up to her.
"And? You've seen anybody?" he asked, his tone hopeful.
"Nope. The streets are completely empty." His face fell momentarily at her words, then he gritted his teeth in anger.
"Damn it! We told them in advance that we'll be needing more people. What do they take us for?" he sneered bitterly. She looked at him, the same irritation appearing in her own eyes. They were silent for a moment, Heisuke's face becoming more and more grim with every second.
Shizuka's ears caught silent voices and she turned around to see Shinpachi and Okita standing nearby.
"Isn't it weird? Not only they're meeting right next to the government building, but they're doing this the very same day their spy got arrested? Seems pretty fishy to me." Okita didn't have any answer for him, as his opinion was the same. Shinpachi noticed them, and seeing Heisuke's face, he understood immediately.
"Any news?" he asked anyway.
"Nothing." The older man just sighed, his expression darkening as well.
Damn it, the guys are becoming dispirited. Those Aizu bastards, what are they playing at? Shizuka really hated how unfairly the Shinsengumi were treated. She was around them for long enough to see how honorable and committed captains were. She could finally understand Father's words. They really are good men.
She looked at the group in front of her. Okay, let's liven the things up!
"You know what they say, Shinpachi-san. It's always the darkest under the candlestick," the girl started, referring to his earlier statement. The men looked up at her. "Maybe that's their strategy, to confuse us," she wondered out loud and approached them, looking around. "Or maybe..."
She lowered her voice to a conspirational whisper, as if she was going to share a really important secret, making Heisuke and Shinpachi step closer to her, curiosity written all over their faces. Okita was much more reserved than his companions and settled on just observing her. She prolonged the silence for few more seconds, making the tension rise...
"Maybe they're just idiots. I'd go with this second option," she ended finally in a matter-of-fact tone and the idiot duo blinked at her in unison, confused. Then they broke out in quiet chuckles.
"Pfft, what was that, Shizuka-chan?" Heisuke managed to utter.
"My theory," she deadpanned and their laughter continued.
"Makes sense to me," Shinpachi agreed with a wide grin.
She smiled, happy that the men cheered up. She noticed Okita's gaze on her and offered him a crooked smirk, similar to the ones he's always been giving her. He just let out an amused sigh.
Some time later Kondou, who's been talking for a longer while with Yamazaki, joined them and looked at Shizuka.
"Yukimura, you should stay away," he warned and she gaped at him. No, I need to get in there! She wanted to say something, but his serious expression was leaving no place for any argument. She lowered her head in defeat.
Then he turned to the captains and his nod was enough for them to understand. Before she realized, the door to the inn got opened with a loud thud, Kondou standing at the front.
"We are the Shinsengumi, the retainers of Aizu Domain! You are under arrest! If you resist, there will be no mercy!" he yelled, his voice echoing throughout the building.
"Way to announce our arrival," Okita laughed, reaching for his sword.
"And put us in disadvantage," Heisuke grumbled.
"Stop whining. It's good manners to inform them who are they up against," Shinpachi answered with a big smile. And with that the fight began. The silence of the night got disrupted by the sounds of the swords clashing and the pained yells of the defeated.
It's been a while already and she was pacing in front of the entrance nervously. Every time she heard a scream she'd flinch, startled. She was slowly going insane from worry. What if one of ours got hurt? Maybe I could go and help somehow? Damn it.
She was torn. She didn't want to disobey Kondou's order, but, hearing their struggles, it was really hard to keep herself away. Also... That man might be there, she remembered, adding to the anxiety she felt.
Suddenly, she heard a well-known voice among the ruckus.
"Hey, anybody? We need some backup!" Shinpachi-san.
Other soldiers decided to sneak in from the back and left few minutes ago, so there was nobody who could listen to the man's plea. Nobody except for her.
She took few unsure steps towards the door, then stopped. But upon hearing the yells again, her hesitance faltered. They need help. I can help, she reasoned, trying to convince herself. With that thought, she finally went inside.
The moment she stepped through the entrance the familiar scent hit her nostrils. She looked around just to see numerous bodies, walls stained with their blood. She stared at the carnage in front of her, the sight reminding her of what had happened in her own household. Everything looked eerily similar. She shook her head quickly, trying to chase away the images that have appeared. Get a grip, there's no time for that, she scolded herself harshly. She took a deep breath, ignoring the stench, and kept walking.
There was nobody around, the fight was already going on deeper inside the inn. She followed the noises and at last noticed some of the Shinsengumi.
"You needed help?" she called out, pulling Sagami Kaneyasu out of its sheath. Shinpachi looked over his shoulder in surprise.
"Shi... What are you doing here?" he asked and stabbed the man who tried to approach him. Then he turned to her. "Kondou-san told you not to go in. It ain't a place for you, you should leave."
"I heard you need more people," she countered.
"We'll be fine."
"But I can help! Stop being so stubborn," she said and he looked at her.
"Can you kill a person?" he asked seriously and she stared at him, caught off guard.
In that moment three opponents appeared from the room behind Shinpachi and, seeing the danger before the man did, Shizuka moved past him instinctively. She dodged the man at the front and welcomed the second ronin with a strong kick, making him and his companion fall back to where they came from. The first man didn't even have time to react before she turned around and her sword reached him. He collapsed, the wound in his back bleeding heavily. She looked back at Shinpachi with a little smile.
"I can manage," she answered his earlier question. He was eyeing her closely, his weird expression catching her attention. What is it?
As enemies were slowly standing up, Shinpachi grabbed her arm and guided her behind him, his face normal again.
"Got it. I will handle things here, so you go and help upstairs."
"But I..." she wanted to oppose again, but he cut her off.
"Just go." He pushed her lightly and she slowly went away, looking back constantly. But the man seemed to have control over the situation, so she decided to leave the enemies downstairs to him. Why did he make such a face, though? she wondered while making her way back to the staircase.
Shizuka flinched upon hearing a loud bang. She ran towards the sound and noticed a man at the very bottom of the stairs, fresh blood coming out of the cut on his back. He was still moving though and she readied her sword. But before she could do anything, somebody jumped down from above and finished off the enemy. She looked up and found herself face to face with Kondou.
"Yukimura, why are you here?" he asked, his tone harsh, making her feel like a child caught on doing mischief.
"I... I heard you needed help, so I figured..." she stammered, avoiding his piercing eyes. In this moment, he looked more intimidating that Hijikata himself.
"I admire your courage, but this is not a place for a young lady like you," he explained in a slightly calmer voice.
But I can't go out now. I still need to help them. And Sawamura... she thought frantically.
"I'm not afraid," she said with confidence. They were observing each other for a moment, she knew he was testing her. She didn't let her gaze waver. "I'm alright," she assured again. Kondou let out a sigh and looked away. He muttered something under his breath, she caught the word "obstinate", and started to climb the stairs.
"Be careful, Yukimura. I don't want you to get hurt," he warned and she offered him a reassuring smile.
"Commander, there's more of them!" they heard and Kondou sped up. She followed and saw few soldiers trying to break through the enemies' defense. They are protecting this room like crazy. Somebody important must be there, she figured and then stopped abruptly. Don't tell me... Him?
"Where's Souji?" Kondou asked while rushing to help his men.
"Captain Okita is at the end of the hallway. It seems like he stumbled upon a strong opponent," one of the soldiers answered. "He told us to move on."
Just as Shizuka went to join them, Kondou turned around and locked gazes with her briefly. He didn't say anything, but she understood.
Help him.
She didn't want to. She was looking at him, unable to answer. What if Sawamura's there? It might be my chance!
Commander's pleading eyes didn't leave her face, he was waiting. She knew she'd lost. She just couldn't bring herself to disappoint this man. She nodded finally and seeing this, he gave her a grateful smile.
Stupid, stupid! I'm so stupid! she cursed herself as she was running down the corridor.
Once she reached the room she slowed down, wanting to approach as quietly as possible. The door was half opened so she peeked inside. She spotted Okita right away, he was facing her. The captain didn't notice her though, as his full attention was on the ongoing fight.
She'd heard about Okita's skill few times already, but didn't have the opportunity to see him in action. The rumors, especially the one about him obtaining Menkyo Kaiden at the age of eighteen, seemed a little exaggerated to her. This license was incredibly hard to get; it was given only to the most talented and strong, after years of hard training. Thinking about her experience with him, she doubted that Okita, out of all people, would have the perseverance to do it.
But it took her just one look to know that it was all true. Shizuka was gaping at him for a while, mesmerized.
I have to apologize to him for thinking that he's a slacker, she thought while observing his moves. She recognized his style, it was Tennen Rishin-ryū. She quickly recalled the spars of the other captains and realized that Okita was probably the most skilled out of all of them. Each of them is great, but I think only Saito could match his technique, she analyzed. The man was holding his ground, his sword sure and fast. His fighting was truly a captivating sight.
She looked away reluctantly, and finally glanced at his opponent. He was shorter than Okita, his hair blonde. He can't be one of the ronin. His clothing looks way too fancy, she noticed. Then she gasped at the sudden thought. Maybe... Maybe he's Sawamura?
"Is that all you can do?" she heard a deep voice, followed with a snort. Okita clenched his teeth at the comment and charged at the man, his attack however was easily blocked. The enemy then took few steps back.
"I will be leaving now. Try to stop me and you will regret it," the man threatened and she shuddered at the sudden chill that filled the room. What was that?
"Sorry, but I can't do that. You're gonna have to die tonight," Okita answered with a smile, earning a scoff from his foe. With that they resumed their fight.
Having her eyes on the man, she soon started worrying. He may have seemed like a self-taught swordsman, his moves crude and fighting lacking, and was nowhere near Okita in terms of technique, but he was obviously way more powerful. This sheer strength of his was making him a very tough opponent. Okita was having a hard time, his breathing slightly faster.
She didn't see the man's face, but his whole body looked relaxed, almost lazy, as if he didn't even break a sweat while fighting. At this rate, he's going to lose. I have to do something.
She abandoned the thought of a direct intervention right away, since she could easily predict Okita's reaction. She didn't know him for long, but she could understand him as a fellow swordsman. Having a third party intervene during the duel was not only annoying, it could also be dangerous. And with his bipolar character, an "accident" was even more likely to happen. If I interrupt him, he's gonna cut me down too, she figured.
She noticed that Okita couldn't land a single blow, the enemy's defense being too strong. Maybe if I distract the guy somehow, it'll give him an opening? She looked around the room and her eyes stopped on a big bowl standing on the shelf right next to her. This will do, she thought. She picked it up and waited for the right moment. There, now!
She threw the bowl at the opponent and he raised his sword, smashing it to the pieces without even looking at it. It took him only a second, but her plan succeeded. Okita used the opportunity and attacked fiercely, and though the man still parried, he stumbled, losing his focus. The captain looked at her and his lips moved in a silent message, then he smiled briefly. She made out the words easily. Good job.
Suddenly she got that sensation again and quickly concentrated on the enemy. The aura around him got darker, it was visible that their little victory infuriated him greatly. Before she could identify this familiar feeling, the man attacked and somehow she knew it was over.
"Useless," he hissed and struck from above with such strength, that Okita's defense weakened for a split second. The opponent smirked at this and then kicked the captain right in the chest, the impact sending him flying across the room and into a nearby shōji. He gathered himself up quickly, but then fell on his knees, grabbing his chest in pain. Okita started coughing intensively and she gasped, seeing that his hand was stained with blood.
The man raised his sword again, but she rushed to the captain's side before it could reach him. She grabbed his arm, steadying him.
"Okita-san! Are you okay?" she asked, but he couldn't answer, only ragged wheezes leaving his mouth. She didn't even notice that enemy's blade was getting closer, busy with helping Okita.
"Move," he said in a cold voice and Shizuka finally noticed the katana. She looked up and faced the man for the first time. His eyes caught her attention right away, their crimson color an unusual sight. Then she froze in shock. She was finally able to understand the chill from before. I knew there was something about him... An oni. Is he really this man, then? Is Sawamura also an oni? she wondered, looking him in the eyes.
He was also observing her, but she noticed that his gaze was indifferent, bored. His attitude annoyed her.
"Go to hell," she growled in response, making him sneer in amusement.
"So you want to die too? Fine with me," he concluded and raised his sword, ready to strike her. She didn't flinch.
Just as he was about to attack, he stopped abruptly and stared at her face. His expression became serious. The man opened his mouth to say something, but in that moment she felt a strong hold on her arm, pulling her backwards. Okita stood up and cleared his throat, spitting the remnants of the blood onto the floor. What the hell is he doing?
"You fight me. Leave the kid alone," he spoke up, his voice strong. She gaped at him, surprised that he can still move, even after receiving a direct hit from an oni. That attack probably broke few of his ribs, but he was standing there and shielding her as if nothing happened. What an idiot, she cursed, noticing that Okita's body was hunched slightly. She bit her lip in nervousness.
The opponent just snorted at his words.
"You can barely stand, you fool," he countered mercilessly and she could see the captain's back shaking in anger.
"Shut up! I can still fight," Okita insisted. The man just looked at both of them, his eyes lingering a little longer on Shizuka.
"The moment you entered the inn, my business here ended," he said, sheathing his blade. A second later, before they could react, he jumped out of the window, leaving them alone. She took a step in that direction, but stopped seeing that Okita is swaying dangerously.
"Damn it! I can still fight," he repeated stubbornly, but his opponent was long gone.
She stared at him and waited until he glanced up. When he did, she gave him a nasty glare.
"Are you stupid? Why would you do that?!" Shizuka paused, overwhelmed with emotions. She breathed in deeply to calm herself down. "You always threaten to kill me, so what was that? Why the hell would you protect me when you're barely standing?" she asked, her voice sharp.
He was looking at her, his emerald eyes unreadable as always. Then he chuckled to himself, unamused.
"Yeah, why would I do that?" he wondered out loud and, hearing him, her irritation disappeared instantly. His voice was unfocused, distant. Not good.
"I'll figure this out, but... for now I have to... kill..." He took a wobbly step towards the window. She was observing his stride, readying herself, and caught him just before his face met with the floor.
"Hey, Okita-san!" she yelled. The girl grabbed his arms, shaking him gently, but to no avail. He was out cold. She checked his breathing, just to make sure. He's alive.
She knew that there was no way she'd be able to take him out by herself. Just holding him like this was already hard enough. She sat down, placing his head on her lap gently. Damn, what a pain, she sighed in exasperation.
She looked at Okita and noticed the trickle of dried blood, his face ghostly white. She looked away. I was supposed to help him and... Shit.
She couldn't hear any noises and figured that the fight was over. But who won?
She concentrated oni powers on her ears and closed her eyes. After a moment she was able to catch familiar voices. She breathed out in relief.
"Can anybody hear me?" she called out. The steps of few people echoed on the corridor and a second later Kondou and two other soldiers appeared in the doorway. One glance at the situation and the commander was already kneeling at her side, checking Okita's condition.
"What happened?" he asked, his dull voice making her look up at him. His face was incredibly pale, though she didn't spot any injuries on him.
He must be so worried.
During her stay in the Shinsengumi headquarters, she noticed that Okita was very devoted to Kondou. His eyes would always follow the man and he listened to his every word. Seeing glimpses of the captain's character, she was initially surprised by their closeness, but soon she understood.
Kondou was a wonderful person. He might've seemed a little naive, especially compared to the suspicious vice-commander, but that was not the case. He was just an idealist, choosing to see good in people.
There were moments, instances when she saw why he is the one in command instead of Hijikata or Sannan. He could move his men with his expression alone. His strong gaze was pure and inspiring, making the soldiers follow him gladly. Yes, she could totally understand why Okita was so faithful to Kondou.
But this fondness was going in both ways. The commander treated the younger man like his son and was spoiling him rotten. Not once she witnessed Hijikata's outbursts of anger at how lenient Kondou was with Okita. And Okita loved every minute of it.
So she wasn't surprised when she saw the commander so concerned.
"He just lost consciousness," she rushed with an explanation. Hearing her brief report of the events, he relaxed a little.
"So he wasn't stabbed?" he made sure.
"No, no. But that kick was pretty strong. It might've broken few ribs." His eyes closed and he sighed quietly.
"Take him back and let Yamazaki look at him," he ordered and two men lowered their heads. They laid Okita on the wooden plank and went out of the room. Shizuka and Kondou followed closely.
Suddenly, she felt a gentle pat on her shoulder and glanced up. The commander was looking at her, his brow furrowed.
"Are you alright?"
"Yes," she answered hesitantly.
He pointed at her face and she touched it, looking at him in confusion. She felt something sticky on her left cheek and stared at her hand in surprise. Blood? How?
He waited for her answer, so she quickly covered her reaction up with an awkward cough.
"Ah, this... It's not mine," she said. After a moment of silence, he nodded, deciding to take her word for it.
As they were preparing to leave Ikedaya, Kondou gazed at her again. When she locked eyes with him, he offered her a smile. It wasn't his usual happy grin though. Not knowing why, this sight made her heart ache.
"Thank you, Yukimura," he said. She clenched her teeth.
"Why? I didn't do anything. And he's injured..." she trailed off. "You asked me to help and I..."
"You helped him," Kondou cut her off. "He's not wounded very badly and it's all thanks to you. Thank you," he repeated and ruffled her hair. She didn't answer, unconvinced.
Maybe I should've intervened after all? Then he wouldn't be like this. She glanced at Okita. She felt very bad, especially remembering Kondou's grateful eyes. Damn it.
Once they've returned to the headquarters, she was permitted to listen to the reports. Thanks to the commander's message, Hijikata's group (which at first went to the other inn) managed to get to Ikedaya quickly and help out. They arrested 23 people and lost one soldier. She was surprised, hearing that the raid lasted more than two hours. It passed so quickly.
After Hijikata ended, Shizuka looked around and joined Shinpachi, who was standing near the entrance. She noticed that his expression was dark.
"Are you alright?" she asked and he stared blankly at her for a minute. Then he broke out of his daze and gave her a grin that wasn't reaching his eyes.
"Never been better! And you, Shizuka-chan?"
"I'm alr..." she started replying, but something caught her attention. "Are you hurt? What happened?" she exclaimed, pointing at his bandaged hand. He followed her gaze.
"Ah, it's nothing. Just a scratch," he responded, making her frown. "Hey, don't make such a scary face. I'm really fine," he assured.
"Then why are you so down?" she inquired. He looked at her, caught off guard.
"W- who? Me? Nah, I'm good."
"Yeah, right," she answered sceptically. "Spill it."
"You really are scary, you know?" he started, but she knew that he was trying to distract her.
"Yes, I do. Now tell me." She was glaring at him intensively and after a moment he looked away.
"Ah, this is so frustrating!" he yelled out of nowhere, startling her. "That brat told me he's having everything under control and send me off, but there he goes, getting injured like an idiot." Brat? Injured?
"Wait, Heisuke's hurt?" she asked and he nodded.
"Got a pretty nasty wound on his forehead. Yamazaki's checking on him."
"Is he unconscious?" she prodded.
"He just woke up," they heard a voice and turned around to see Harada. Shinpachi perked up at the words.
"He did? How is he?"
"Mostly pissed off," the man stated, making her snort. Shinpachi however wasn't in the mood for jokes.
"I'm gonna show him real pissed off. That brat..." he hissed under his breath and headed towards Heisuke's room. She figured that this meeting might end up badly and decided to follow, but Harada stopped her, grasping her arm.
"Wait a moment."
"Did you see him? He's gonna beat Heisuke up!" He chuckled at her words and she looked at him unamused.
"He wouldn't do that. He was just really worried," Harada explained.
"I know, but..."
"Speaking of beating up," he said and she glanced up at him. "I heard you were in Ikedaya." He loomed over her, his fingers tightening slightly.
"Oh. Y-yeah," she stuttered, taking a step back.
"Didn't I tell you to stay in your room? Do you realize how dangerous it was?"
"It wasn't that bad," she said, avoiding his glare. He was staring at her for a longer while, and just when Shizuka started thinking that he'll burn holes in her body, he finally looked away. She offered him an apologetic smile, and he just sighed tiredly.
"Are you alright?" he asked, glancing at her face.
"Yeah, I'm fine. It's not mine," she lied. After Kondou told her about the blood, she kept wondering when she got injured like this and eventually remembered. It happened right after Okita got kicked. I didn't even notice it back then. I was too busy keeping that idiot on his feet, she scowled. Harada didn't look convinced.
"Oh, really?" he raised his eyebrow. "I don't think I've ever told you that, but you're a terrible liar." Then, before she could react, he clutched her face with both of his hands and started examining it. At first she froze, surprised by a sudden touch, but after few seconds she found herself relaxing. It's just Sano-san.
"Hmm. There really is no wound," he murmured.
"Told you," she said with a grin. He let go of her and smiled back, visibly relieved.
"Just wanted to make sure. You can't scar your face, or else you won't find a husband," he stated, and she looked at him with an outraged disbelief, making him laugh. Husband? What a joke.
"Alright, alright. Wash your face and get some rest. You must be exhausted," Harada instructed and she nodded.
"Yeah, you too." Then she turned around and headed towards her room. Now that he mentioned it, I really am tired, she thought with a yawn. She made a quick stop by the well and wiped the blood off her face and neck.
As Shizuka was passing next to Okita's room, not knowing why, she paused. She lingered there awkwardly for a moment, fighting with herself. Ah, why should I check on him? He's an asshole. She resumed her walk, just to stop after few steps, a quiet whine escaping her mouth. Damn it. What is wrong with me? she wondered as she went back to the door.
She suddenly heard something and jumped back, luckily avoiding collision with Yamazaki. He looked at her, his eyes slightly widened.
"I... I was just going to my room," she explained and regretted it the moment she said it. Way to sound natural, idiot. Just shut up and stop embarrassing yourself.
The man didn't say anything, merely acknowledging her with a nod, and started leaving. She clenched her fists, unsure what to do. Well, since I've already made a fool out of myself...
"Um..." she began and he looked over his shoulder. "How is Okita-san?" Upon her question, he turned around.
"He's got few broken ribs. He is still unconscious due to shock," Yamazaki answered. Just as I thought.
"He was coughing blood. Why?"
"The blow caused a pulmonary contusion," he explained. "Fortunately, there was no internal bleeding."
"How long will it take for the injury to heal completely?" she prodded, but the man didn't seem to mind.
"Since his ribs are broken, he'll have to take it easy for at least a month, maybe two." T... two months? she gasped, as Yamazaki's words sunk in. Then she looked at him.
"Thank you," she lowered her head. He returned the gesture and soon disappeared behind the corner.
Shizuka stayed in front of Okita's room a moment longer. She reached towards the door, as if trying to open it, but her hand froze midway, the fingers tightening into a fist. She turned on her heel and rushed out of there. She bit her lip, almost drawing blood. This is all my fault.
Some days later, Shizuka was on patrol again. Ever since the Ikedaya incident, the crowd's attitude changed again. The rumors about the Choshu's plans spread among people and the knowledge that it was the Shinsengumi who's stopped it worked wonders. Their expressions weren't terrified or hateful anymore. They might've been still a little wary, but in the corners of their eyes there was a new feeling – respect.
The girl smiled seeing that. They finally gain some recognition. Harada noticed her mood and leaned in curiously.
"Something nice happened?" he asked.
"Not really," she said, grinning wider. She stretched her arms in a leisure gesture. "The weather's great, I like it." He stared at her for a moment, doubtful, but his frown eased quickly.
"Good to hear that." He sighed quietly and she looked up at him.
"What?"
"Nothing," he answered. "Just... You seemed down lately. I'm glad you're okay now," he offered her a gentle smile. She gaped at him, taken aback.
Indeed, after that night she couldn't go back to her usual self for some time. She felt really bad with what happened to Okita. Unconsciously, she started avoiding him. It wasn't really hard, since the captain was mostly staying in his room, ordered to do so by Yamazaki, so his wounds can heal properly. She couldn't stop this stupid behavior of hers and was really mad at herself. She tried her best to hide it though, and thought she was doing a decent job. But how did he notice?
"Was I that obvious?" she grumbled in resignation. He chuckled at her pout.
"No. But I'm good at those things," he stated and winked at her, making her scoff.
"Good at what things?" somebody called out from behind them and then threw his arms around them, joining them.
"He's a player," Shizuka deadpanned and Shinpachi nodded seriously.
"Yeah, I agree with that one," he said, earning Harada's glare. Nagakura changed the topic quickly.
"Anyway... Shizuka-chan, what about your investigation?" Oh, I almost forgot about that, she realized.
The other reason she was so out of it lately, was because of the man she met at the inn. She was really intrigued by the fact that she'd met another oni. She's never seen any other than Father, never even heard of one. She also wondered if he's the person she was looking for.
Shizuka abandoned the idea of asking around the town, since the Shinsengumi seemed to be onto Sawamura as well. She couldn't say that out loud though.
"No, nothing new. But at least people aren't so scared anymore," she answered and the men started talking about that. She sighed, relieved that they left the subject.
"Did you notice too?" she heard after a while and glanced up at Harada.
"Yeah. People are acting strange." She looked around, puzzled.
They were right. Citizens were more agitated than usual, moving around busily, as if preparing for something. What the hell?
"What's going on?" she asked.
"I heard that the Choshu are showing up around Kyoto," Shinpachi said and she stared at him in surprise.
"Even after Ikedaya?"
"Seems like they are planning something again. If they don't back out soon, we'll probably get orders from above," he concluded, Harada nodding in agreement. Then, Shinpachi glanced down at Shizuka, grinning.
"Wanna tag along?"
"Me?" she exclaimed, caught off guard. Wait... Maybe I could help them somehow? It would be my chance to make things right for Ikedaya, she thought, infected by Shinpachi's enthusiasm. In her excitement she didn't notice Harada's sour expression.
"You think I could go?"
"You definitely can't go," Hijikata said in a stern voice.
After a few days orders from Aizu arrived, just like Shinpachi had predicted. Now they were gathered in the common room to plan their journey. Shizuka was also there, since she was asked to bring the tea for the men. She truly hated doing that, but since it was Kondou who made a request, she couldn't refuse.
But that fact didn't stop her from mumbling in annoyance. Who am I, some kind of maid? she wondered as she was distributing the cups among the captains. Oh, wait. I actually am a maid, at least for them, she remembered bitterly, and quickly declared that lie as the most stupid thing she's ever said.
She broke out of her daze upon hearing her name. It was Shinpachi, mentioning her will to join them. That was when Hijikata intervened.
"I do not see any problem," Saito stated, surprising her. "Yukimura-san can protect herself, she has also proved herself useful."
"I agree," Shinpachi spoke up. "You should have seen her in Ikedaya. That was something!" he added and all men looked at her curiously. The only thing she noticed though, was Harada's silent stare.
"I agree with Hijikata-kun," Sannan said. "I am not sure if you understand, but this is war. You wish to go to an actual battlefield merely out of boredom? Because this is your reason, I assume," he ended, his voice biting and unpleasant. She stared at him coldly. He thinks I'm some kind of idiot? Where the hell did that conclusion come from? She opened her mouth to answer him, but Kondou spoke first.
"If you really wish to go, I won't stop you. But I would like you to stay here. It can get really dangerous," he explained. He was so earnest, concern written all over his face, making her words die in her throat. She just lowered her head slightly. The commander smiled, seeing that the girl wasn't going to argue anymore. The same expression appeared on Harada's face.
"But I can go, right?" Heisuke said and Okita looked up at that. Hijikata eyed them doubtfully, but it was Sannan who answered them.
"Todou-kun, Okita-kun, both of you are staying in the headquarters with me."
"I feel good already, I can go," Okita said.
She knew it was a big lie. When she was giving him his share of tea, she noticed how uneven and heavy his breathing was, even though he tried to hide it. His face wasn't any better, slight shadows under his eyes and unnatural paleness were a dead giveaway. He was still far from recovering.
"No," Hijikata replied simply and before Heisuke could speak again, he turned to him. "You're not going either."
The younger man, apparently not discouraged by this blunt rejection, tried another tactic. He looked at the vice commander with the best puppy eyes she's ever seen. She glanced at Hijikata and almost broke out laughing at his grimace. He looked annoyed, almost disgusted, and glared at Heisuke.
"No! Guard the headquarters," he yelled and the boy's face fell.
"Demon!" he whined.
"What did ya say?" Hijikata stared at him and Heisuke flinched. "Kill me? Sure, no problem. Just wait until I get back," he said, the promise making the younger man shrink back.
She heard some noises and looked to her right, where Harada and Shinpachi were seated. The weird sounds was them trying to hold back their laughter and failing miserably, resulting in choked outbursts. She shook her head at their stunts.
"We are moving out at dawn, so get some rest. That's all," Kondou said and the men started leaving the common room.
"Yukimura," the commander called out to her and she turned around.
"Yes?"
"I would like to ask you for a favor," he spoke and she looked at him, slightly surprised. She nodded finally and he continued.
"Can you take care of things in the headquarters? Of course Sannan-kun will be here too, but..." he trailed off. But he's not really himself these days, she understood Kondou's pause.
"I don't know if I am capable," she told him honestly, but he just smiled.
"There's nobody more capable than you, Yukimura," he assured her and she couldn't help but smile back at his words. This man, seriously. You can't win with him, she thought, her mind filled with fondness.
"Then, I will do my best," she answered and bowed slightly.
"Thank you." He returned the gesture. Then he got closer to her, lowering his voice to a whisper, as if somebody could eavesdrop.
"Make sure they eat their medicine, alright?"
"Of course," she said, shaking her head dutifully.
Kondou then excused himself and left to talk to Hijikata. She was gazing at his back for a moment and then headed to her room.
It's been few days since the soldiers moved out, and she couldn't get used to how quiet this place became.
But most of all, she was bored. Since all the captains were away, patrols were temporarily suspended, meaning she had absolutely nothing to do. Well, aside from that damn promise, she remembered with a sigh.
Every day she had to bring the medicine, which she was preparing with Yamazaki, to the wounded men. From the very beginning she knew that Heisuke would be no problem. But the other two... That was worrying.
She'd prefer to swallow glass than to serve Sannan in any way. Her sympathy due to his injury ended long ago, since he continued to act like a total asshole. Now, she simply wished that she wouldn't have to see him. She couldn't ignore Kondou's request though, it would make her feel bad.
Luckily Sannan seemed to like her just as much as she liked him. The first time she brought him the medicine was also the last. He told her not to come anymore, describing this as "useless actions". He didn't even try to sound polite, but she didn't care. She was more than happy to comply. Still, she asked Yamazaki to give it to him instead.
The next issue was Okita. She still felt incredibly guilty every time she saw him. Until now she was doing her best to avoid him, but in this situation it was impossible.
That first day, she was standing in front of his room, unable to go in.
What if I just call out to him and leave the tray next to the door? she thought and almost instantly rejected the idea. Idiot, he's injured. He shouldn't move too much.
She stayed there for a longer moment, trying to come up with something else, but failed to do so.
"Ah, damn it," she cursed quietly, annoyed with herself. "Okita-san, I'm coming in." She didn't get any answer and figured that he might be asleep. Hoping for this she entered, and breathed out in relief seeing that he was indeed sleeping. She approached his futon and left the medicine right next to him, then she retreated quickly.
Okita seemed to have his naps around that time of the day, because when Shizuka went to his room the next time, he was asleep again. The same thing happened later.
Now she was coming back from Heisuke's room. She stayed there for a longer while, chatting with the younger man, since she'd noticed that he was as bored as she was. He was mostly complaining about Hijikata's strictness. He also mentioned his opponent from Ikedaya, though very reluctantly. He was still very mad at himself for losing.
Hearing this story, she started wondering. Heisuke was an amazing swordsman, but he lost easily. He said that the enemy was not using any kind of weapon, which was even more strange.
Soon, when Heisuke grew tired, she left, still thinking about it. It can't be, right? Was this guy yet another oni? I don't think a normal person would fight barehanded, she reasoned. Then she looked back at younger man's room. I hope he gets well soon, she wished.
Shizuka was walking through the compound, lost in her thoughts. While wandering like this, she spotted somebody standing in front of the common room. She tensed momentarily, but as she looked closer, she recognized the person. Which made her tense up even more. Crap.
She turned around and left that corridor as fast as she could. Why is he out there? Shouldn't he rest? she wondered. When she reached the garden in front of her room, she finally stopped. Ah, seriously. What the hell am I doing? She sat down on the bench and sighed heavily, utterly disappointed by her own behavior.
The weather was really great today. Thanks to the gentle wind, that was blowing from time to time, the usual stuffy air felt a lot more cool and refreshing. She inhaled deeply, a little smile appearing on her face. She looked up at the sky and her mouth opened slightly in amazement.
It was especially beautiful, the infinite blue decorated with various shapes of small, white clouds. She was so absorbed, that she didn't notice a person joining her on the bench. The man mimicked Shizuka and also got captivated by the sight.
"Today's sky sure is pretty, isn't it?" she heard. She hummed in response, at first not realizing that he's here. After few moments she flinched and stared at her companion. He offered her one of his crooked smiles.
How did he get here so quietly? she thought frantically, caught completely off guard. Her initial reaction was to run, but she shook her head at the ridiculous idea. Don't be a coward, she scolded herself. Seeing her consternation, he spoke up.
"What's wrong?"
"Is it alright for you to walk around like this?" she asked him, ignoring his question.
"I'm fine," Okita said, shrugging.
"But what if you make it worse?" the girl opposed, making him glance at her, his eyes half-closed.
"It's not like I'm going to run off and join them, or anything," he joked. Then, as if realizing something, he leaned in suddenly, his smile wolfish. "Don't tell me you're worried, Shizuka-chan? I thought you didn't like me, but was I wrong?" he teased. She wasn't paying attention to his teasing, but hearing his last remark, her head shot up. She glared at him, her blood boiling. What the hell did he just say?
"It's you who's been an asshole for no reason this entire time, not me!" Shizuka exclaimed before she could stop herself. The moment those words left her mouth, she turned her face away in horror. His eyes widened and for a moment he was just looking at her, taken aback.
The prolonging silence was making her feel more and more uneasy. She was waiting for a comeback or a hit, she didn't know herself, so when he started to laugh loudly she flinched, stunned.
"Ah, I guess I deserved that one. Sorry for being an asshole, then," he said, still chuckling. She just faced the other way, murmuring in resignation and embarrassment.
When he calmed down, he gazed at her again, this time serious.
"Let's say that I misunderstood few things about you." She looked up, surprised. No way. He's explaining himself?
"Misunderstood?"
"Yes. But it doesn't matter anymore," Okita assured. She eyed him, unconvinced. He must've found her sceptical frown funny, because he started laughing again.
She was ready to smack him upside the head, but he suddenly broke out in a violent cough. Her expression instantly tensed in worry.
"Okita-san, are you alright?" She turned to him, but before she grabbed his arm he raised his hand to stop her.
"Don't. I'm fine." He coughed few more times, then the attack subsided. She was staring at him, her fists clenched tightly. When he noticed her gaze, she looked away, biting her lip.
"You really are worried, Shizuka-chan," he picked on her, as if nothing happened.
"How can I not be? It's because..." she yelled at him, having enough of his bravado, but he cut her off.
"You're really weird," he stated, observing her as if she was some kind of a foreign being. She huffed in outrage. What?!
"Well excuse me for being weird!" She thought he would laugh again, but strangely he didn't, he just kept looking at her. Then he spoke up.
"I got hurt because I was careless, okay? It's not your fault." How... How did he know?
She stared up at him, uncertainty written all over her face. He didn't look away, his gaze reassuring, and waited patiently until doubt was gone from her eyes.
"Are we clear?" he asked finally and she gave him a little nod. "Good," he said simply.
They were sitting next to each other for a longer while and Shizuka noticed with surprise, that it didn't feel awkward at all. She glanced at him sneakily, his eyes were closed. Okita's neck was stretched towards the sky, he was breathing deeply, inhaling fresh, summer air. She did the same, and soon found herself slowly relaxing. Who would've thought that I'll be talking to him normally one day? Well, almost normally.
Her fate was now intertwined with the Shinsengumi in more ways than one. She knew that the success of her mission depended heavily on them, since they were targeting the same person. She didn't want to lose this connection. Of course I won't let them get to Sawamura first. He's mine.
Also... In the darkest corners of her mind, there was this one, forbidden thought.
She enjoyed being here.
Even though the pain she felt couldn't be erased, strangely, by being here with them, she could feel it lessen slightly. Somehow the Shinsengumi started to mean something to her. She didn't know yet what it was, and was resisting to acknowledge that with all her might, but this mysterious feeling kept growing.
It's not so bad, she concluded and smiled to her thoughts, forgetting herself for a moment. This caught Okita's attention and he looked down at her curiously.
"What is it?" he asked.
"Nothing."
"Hmm..." he eyed her closely, as if searching for an answer on her face. She gave him an unamused glare. "You really are weird," he concluded finally.
Shizuka stood up abruptly, finally having enough of his comments, and he looked up at her.
"Says the guy who has a killing fetish," she bit back and he stared at her surprised. He repeated her insult quietly. "And you know what? Go to hell," she ended and turned away, heading to her room, each step a loud thud. She heard him laughing and gritted her teeth. Not so bad? He's the worst! Ugh, I hate this asshole!
He called after her, but she refused to look behind. When she entered her room, she closed the door with a slam. But even then, she could still hear how amused he was. She covered her ears with her hands, grumbling in irritation.
"Not so bad my ass."
Okay, chapter 5 down!
You might've noticed that this chapter is a lot longer than the previous ones. Well, it's because of you guys. I got so excited over your sweet comments, that before I realized I wrote this kind of giant. That's why I wanted to thank you. Your lovely reviews made my day(s) and gave me an inspiration-filled kick. I really appreciate that.
I was thinking about shortening it, or breaking it into two parts, but in the end I decided to keep, as an experiment of sorts. And here's my question for you: do you like it like this? Is it too long? Please, let me know.
As for the story… I went all out with Souji, didn't I? I figured they need to establish some sort of a relation, even if it's a really odd one. I'll keep working hard to improve it and give it an appropriate "feeling" (but I have to admit that Shizuka is very tough to work with, she's such a short fuse. And what's worse, Souji seems to have figured that out…)
Feel free to leave a review, I'd love to know what you guys think. See you in chapter 6!