CHAPTER 19
**Kenshin's POV***
As Kenshin opened the door to the roof, a ray of sunlight flooded his vision with a blinding brilliance that momentarily robbed him of sight. He lifted his forearm to block out its golden embrace and noticed a tall, intimidating figure looming at the edge of the building, their imposing silhouette outlined against the sky.
With an aura of quiet intensity, the figure gazed outward, as if surveying the world below with a mixture of vigilance and contemplation. The wind teased their long hair and cloak, adding to the air of mystery that surrounded them. His focused stare hinted at a mind sharp and observant, ever watchful of the surroundings.
"Hello Kenshin." A deep baritone filled the air sending shivers down his spine as the figure's voice boomed with an ominous weight.
"Hiko? What are you doing here?" Nervous anticipation laced his words as he tentatively inquired.
"Oh, just stopping by for your fairy god mother visit."
With a swift, menacing pivot, Hiko whirled around to confront him, tension radiated from his stance, arms tightly folded across his chest like a barricade.
"Oro?" Kenshin's words stumbled out clumsily.
The unexpected presence of Hiko outside his usual domain left him taken aback, his mind began to race with questions and uncertainties about the situation unfolding before him.
"You've spent three days living in a damn hospital, and you've gone missing from work! Did you honestly fucking believe those vultures watching us would suddenly grow a heart and give you a pass?!"
Hiko's visage contorted into a stormy expression, his eyes ablaze with simmering rage that crackled in the air like lightning waiting to strike.
"No, that was not the expectation I had."
Kenshin realized, with a sinking feeling, that he had crossed a line this time, the gravity of his actions weighing heavily on him. Kenshin tensed up, his body instinctively preparing for combat. Muscles tightened like steel cables, his stance shifting into a defensive position as he readied himself.
"You've left me hanging and skirted around your duties for too long! And all of this chaos, for what?! A fucking love interest?! This girl lacks significant protective factors—she's a mere human, residing in the heart of one of Kyoto's main tourist attractions, devoid of powers or training. You certainly have a knack for choosing the most fucking vulnerable ones!"
Hiko's anger surged unabated as he continued his tirade, his words a torrent of fury that brooked no interruption, each syllable carrying the weight of his pent-up frustration and disappointment.
Hiko advanced, closing the distance until only a foot separated them, the air heavy with unspoken threat as he silently asserted his dominance.
"This recent incident has only fueled my determination to find a solution that guarantees her safety." Kenshin reasoned.
"She's in a precarious situation, Kenshin. It's either lifetime witness protection or a lifelong commitment from you. Are you ready to make such critical decisions?"
"I am fully prepared to make that lifelong commitment to her." Kenshin stood firm, unwavering in the face of intimidation, refusing to yield or show any signs of backing down.
Hiko scoffed, and with a clenched fist, he delivered a powerful blow to Kenshin's face, sending him crashing to the ground in a violent collision of force and impact. He had moved with lightning speed, akin to a striking viper, catching Kenshin off guard with his swift and precise actions.
"What makes you so confident that a union between a fucking human and a demon could be successful?! After your recent lapse in judgment, I predict that the girl won't survive another six months!"
Kenshin shook off the effects of the assault, his eyes blazing with defiance as he regained his footing, ready to face Hiko and further demonstrate his unwavering resolve.
"I understand that, and I won't argue with you; I'm seeking your assistance. I am ready to take any necessary measures to ensure that she doesn't face danger again."
Kenshin felt the simmering heat of anger rising within him, yet he understood the gravity of the situation. Engaging in a fight with Hiko here, in a civilian area, would not only lead to defeat but also pose too great a risk. He realized the importance of being compliant, finding a peaceful solution, and putting an end to Hiko's pursuit.
"How will you uphold that dedication and return to your position at work? You can't abandon your responsibilities again. This was the final fucking straw!"
Hiko swung at him once more, delivering a forceful blow with an iron fist to Kenshin's stomach. Despite the impact, Kenshin absorbed the strike and staggered forward, refusing to collapse to his knees, determined not to display any sign of weakness.
"I will return to Itochu to fulfill my responsibilities, while ensuring Kaoru receives the necessary protection in my lair and seek your guidance moving forward. I will exercise caution and refrain from taking matters into my own hands again."
Kenshin wheezed as he spoke, the pain evident in his voice. He could feel the sharp ache of at least three broken ribs, and his sternum throbbed relentlessly from the sheer force of Hiko's devastating blow. Hiko let out a low chuckle, his hand gently patting Kenshin's hunched back in a gesture of camaraderie.
"Good, that's what I like to hear. You will return to Itochu with me tomorrow morning. Make arrangements for Kaoru's hospital discharge and ensure her transport to the lair without drawing attention."
Kenshin nodded in silent agreement, he observed Hiko's skilled hands deftly manipulating the energies to create a portal. With a graceful step, Hiko's imposing figure disappeared into the shimmering vortex, his billowing cloak leaving a fleeting silhouette in its wake.
"Until tomorrow then. Idiot." And just like that, the portal closed behind Hiko, leaving a lingering sense of finality in the air.
Kenshin paused, collecting himself with a deliberate effort, then proceeded to open the door leading to the stairwell. With time ticking away, Kenshin pushed aside his own pain for the moment, focusing solely on the urgent task of getting Kaoru out of the hospital.
***Kaoru's POV****
Kaoru's attention was drawn to the cacophony echoing down the hospital corridor. A thunderous crash reverberated through the hallway, a warning bell of approaching visitors. Kaoru and Nurse Joy had ended their conversation, and she had left the room to notify the Doctor of Kaoru's decision on her treatment plan.
A piercing, high-pitched voice echoed through the air, demanding, "Where is she?!" The sharp tone was punctuated by the sound of more crashes, intensifying the sense of urgency.
"No, I refuse to calm down! My sister is in there!"
Kaoru's heart leaped in her chest, every muscle tensing with hypertension as the chaotic sounds filled the air. Memories of her harrowing experience at Shishio's mansion surged to the forefront of her mind, preparing her for the worst. She knew that this reunion would not mirror the joyous occasions she had shared with Sano and Megumi.
The door to Kaoru's room swung open with a resounding thud against the wall, heralding the entrance of a small yet energetically charged woman. Her presence exuded authority, her gaze as commanding as that of an army commander. It was Misao. Her blue braids flowed behind her with her movement. The terrified hospital staff cowered behind her, their scrubs providing little comfort as they sought refuge from her intense behavioral outbursts.
"Kaoru! There you are! You're alive—-"
Grandpa swiftly caught up to Misao and entered the room with a similar assertiveness. His dignified stature and bushy eyebrows, brimming with wisdom, mirrored the deep concern etched on his face.
"Kaoru! You're okay, I was so worried that we had lost you, my beloved grand-daughter!"
He approached the bed with arms outstretched, poised to embrace her, but Kaoru leaned back, avoiding his embrace. Her glare could have cut through steel as she fixed him with a cold, biting tone.
"You all knew the entire time, didn't you."
"What?" Okita paused, his confusion evident as his arms dropped to his sides. His tone carried a sense of bewilderment.
"You knew that Kenshin was a demon. You knew demons existed and you never told me."
Despite being covered in bandages, Kaoru's fierce expression remained unchanged. She pointed aggressively at him and Misao as she spoke, her demeanor commanding attention. She made no move to return their affection or address their concerns.
"No Kaoru, you misunderstand." Okita started in a hushed tone. He raised his hands in front of his chest in a sign of peace. Misao let out a gasp of shock at Kaoru's words.
"Why were you incessantly cautioning me, Gramps? I implored you to explain, and now it's all crystal clear. That's why you seemed so uneasy when Kenshin was around."
"Kaoru, we took these actions to shield you, it was imperative to keep this information from you."
"There's been more they've been keeping from you Kaoru. Ask them about the Oniwanbamshui."
Kenshin interjected, his lithe frame leaning casually against the doorway of the room. He had arrived just a moment ago, catching the beginning of the conversation before stepping inside. His facial expression mirrored Kaoru's, reflecting a shared belief that this information would have been valuable. His eyes retained their natural violet hue, yet his voice had undergone a significant deepening, now carrying a rough, crude rasp.
Misao wasted no time getting in his face, shaking her small fist with a boisterous attitude. Despite her petite stature, she had a bone to pick with him.
"You! Kaoru would be living a normal life if you hadn't shown up and ruined everything."
"Oh, so she would, continuing to dwell in blissful ignorance, I presume?"
Kenshin allowed himself to push back. Kenshin smirked at Misao, his eyes briefly flashing gold. Her little display didn't faze him; he knew that all the techniques she had learned from ninja training would be futile against him. She was all bark, and no bite.
How could he expect anything less from a family of demon slayers when one of their dearests, had been missing for so long? He made a vow to never leave Kaoru's side, and he meant every word of it. He was determined to support her in any way possible, unwilling to let her face her family alone, especially considering his role in the perils they had faced.
"What's he referring to Gramps? This is your chance to come clean." Kaoru's tone meant business.
She glanced back and forth between Okita and Misao, sensing their hesitation to meet her gaze. Their once expressive faces now appeared blank, their bodies fidgeting with nervous movements. Misao nervously chewed on her cuticles, a sign of her inner turmoil.
"The business I own at the Aoya is more than just a business; it's the legacy of the last known demon-slaying tribe in Kyoto. This heritage has been passed down in my family for centuries, and each generation upholds the traditions of the past to preserve the sacred art of demon slaying."
Kaoru gaped at him in disbelief for a moment, her jaw nearly hitting the floor. This revelation was completely new to her. Her fucking family had been hiding this her whole life. It was like a punch to the gut.
"Let me clarify, your martial arts studio is actually a prestigious demon-hunting organization? Wonderful. What's next? That you're buddies with the Prime Minister and have tea together? Actually, never mind, don't answer that."
"Kaoru, your father wished for this to be kept from you. Both he and your mother desired a better life for you, one free from the horrors of hunting down bloodthirsty demons. They made me promise not to disclose anything to you."
Okita looked at her with pleading eyes, wanting to convey that this decision hadn't been made lightly; it had been made for her well-being. Her father had entrusted him with her life.
"Kaoru! He's telling the truth, this is has been so hard to keep from you." Misao attempted to interject, her intent clear: she wanted to set the record straight and defend him.
Kaoru whipped her head to the side, fixing Misao with the same deathly glare. In a burst of frustration, she grabbed a pillow from the bed and hurled it at Misao.
"Shut-up! Shut-up! Shut the fuck up! You were supposed to my sister, my side kick, my best friend. You are just as guilty as he is! HOW DARE YOU!"
Misao quickly backed down, tears welling up in her eyes as she covered her mouth with her hands in regret. Kaoru refocused on Okita, eager to confront him further.
"Elaborate more on my dead parents, they didn't want me to become a demon slayer? They were part of this tradition as well then."
"Yes, your parents were deeply involved in our demon-slaying tradition, but they also knew the sacrifices and dangers that came with it. They wanted to shield you from that path, to give you a chance at a different life, one free from the relentless pursuit of bloodthirsty demons. Their wish was for you to flourish in a world untouched by the shadows they battled, to carve your own destiny without the burden of our legacy weighing you down."
Okita stepped forward again towards Kaoru. Closing the distance between them, Okita extended his hand toward Kaoru in a gesture of unity, offering it to her as a symbol of solidarity.
Kaoru slapped his hand away with a mixture of disgust and sorrow. Tears streamed down her face as she grappled with his words. She felt a whirlwind of confusion, anger, and inner turmoil. While his explanation sounded logical, it didn't ease the deep pain of not knowing, which remained just as agonizing.
"That decision was not theirs to make! It was mine! This is my life too, doesn't that count for anything to anyone?"
"Kaoru, I must tell you one mor thing. The injuries that claimed your father's life, they weren't inflicted by a human. Please consider this rationally, it was never meant to hurt you."
Kaoru used the back of her hand to rub her eyes in irritation, a wave of understanding washing over her. It all fell into place now. Her father's tragic death, her mother's illness—they had both fallen prey to demons.
"Let me guess, he wasn't the victim of a robbery. It was caused by a demon, wasn't it?"
"Yes, not just any demon, or we would have slain him. It was-"
"Some grand, powerful demon? Similar to the one I'm apparently in cahoots with? You see, keeping me sheltered all this time led to this moment. It only made me more vulnerable to all of this. There's no turning back from here."
Kaoru wiped away her tears and tried to compose herself. Despite the revelations from her family, this rude awakening felt distinct. For the first time in her life, Kaoru felt a sense of empowerment. She realized she had a voice. Her thoughts and feelings finally held significance. She had more clarity in this moment than she had in her entire life.
"Kaoru, why continue down this path? It will only lead to more pain. We can keep you safe, train you in the arts of demons, and provide you with a room at our headquarters. You'll have the protection of the demon slayers from now on, and we can move you into headquarters. You will be safe there."
Misao stealthily crept up behind Okita as he spoke, hoping to assist him in convincing Kaoru. However, deep down, she knew it would be futile. That girl was as stubborn as ever. Standing next to him, she displayed passive support, silently acknowledging the uphill battle they faced.
"The ironic thing about 'pain' is that I've been through a lot of it recently. It messed me up, left me scarred. But I'll be damned if I walk away from the one person who has been brutally honest with me. The one person who took the time to explain things to me and help me. You have no idea what I've just been through. And now you barge in here, ready to take control of my life again? I don't think so."
"The intention was never to control your life or deceive you. I apologize for the way things unfolded. From here on, we can offer guidance, sharing the knowledge that has been overlooked."
Top of Form
"No. I decide what I do from here on out. I will come when I'm ready. I'm almost 21, I've worked my ass off for you for years, bent over backwards to be a good employee. If you want to be in my life, then you have to let me go. I'm not a little girl anymore."
"Where will you go?" Misao said quietly, her big blue eyes echoing her hurt. She had just lost Kaoru, to find her and lose her again.
Kaoru crossed her arms defiantly over her chest and shook her head in firm disagreement. She recognized the need to establish her boundaries now, to create a clear separation from them.
"I'll contact you when I'm ready, and you will train me, and tell me the story of my parents. If you are the family you claim to be, then this won't dull your love for me. This will make us stronger."
"Kaoru of course we will still love you. If that is what you wish, then so be it." Okita sighed dejectedly.
"I love you both so much, you're the only family I have left, this truth hurts me deeply. I'll need time to heal. I'll be back. I promise."
Kaoru finally opened her arms wide and pulled them into a heartfelt hug. The three of them embraced, united in their shared emotions, holding each other tightly for a moment. Tears streamed down their faces as they realized that their family had been forever changed, and that life could never return to the way it was before.
Kenshin watched Kaoru in awe, marveling at how much she had grown in such a short time. She had blossomed into a woman, and he felt a deep sense of pride knowing that she had chosen him. Although they couldn't celebrate outwardly at the moment, he rejoiced internally, feeling grateful to the gods for her decision.
As the trio slowly broke apart and exchanged their goodbyes, Kenshin watched them until they walked out of the room. A sense of pride washed over him, akin to the feeling of beating enemy troops. Yet, beneath that pride, he could also sympathize with their plight.
"Now about you…" Kaoru turned to Kenshin with the same ferocious determination, her red eyes still swollen from crying. Despite the tears, her beauty was undeniable
"Oro, Yes Miss Kaoru?"
"What's our next step? I need to get out of this hospital."
Yes, of course. I'll plan now for your discharge from the hospital and take you back to my home, where you can heal in peace. The hospital will need your consent for an early discharge. You'll be safe there, and when you're ready, Yuko can come to look at your wounds.
END CHAPTER 19.
***Author's Note**
Wow time flies when you are a busy adult getting destroyed by 9-5 slavery!
Anyways here's the newest chapter!
Planning on introducing Yuko, and Saito to Kaoru in the next chapter, having her eventually return to her family for training, and have the final showdown with Shishio.