Real men talk about their feelings. Please let me know what you think of the chapter!

"Hadome!" The outcry was stopped short, as Yahiko buckled under the offensive strike, forced to retreat. "Tch, damn!"

"Language." Koshijiro gently admonished. He pressed the shinai further, glancing across the boy's shoulder. "This attempt was better, but what went wrong this time?"

"I didn't have enough support for my hands. It's my core, isn't it?"

"Yes, correct. You can increase your exercises by twenty repetitions."

"Fifty more!" He was certainly ambitious.

"As long as you don't injure yourself."

"Fine. I'm still not there yet."

"But in just one hour, your reaction time has cut in half. Keep practicing after you come back." The boy had offered to help Tae and Tsubame, with purchasing supplies. From what he said, Tae had turned to work, setting up in a temporary location while paying for the Akabeko's rebuilding.

They tidied up the dojo, before sitting outside to cool off. Yahiko gulped his barley tea, and in that quiet moment, he spoke unprompted. "I get it now."

"Hm?"

"Well…I've been taught by Kaoru, then Kenshin, and now you. And I get the differences." He seemed slightly embarrassed but explained. "You ask me what I want to accomplish first, and if I need to do something else instead. During practice, you ask me where the issue is, and once I figure it out, we fix it. Kaoru does that too, she leads me to the goal and she encourages me a lot. Kenshin is the quietest, but he always gets to the point and it feels rewarding when he approves. Everyone teaches differently."

"That's right, and you'll find your own way of instruction, when the time comes. Emulate what you admire, and don't be afraid to adjust your methods. Teaching is a matter of approach."

"And it depends on the student too."

"Indeed. You have to know what works for the student and what doesn't."

"So, could you tell what works for me?"

Koshijiro paused, considering. "Your judgment already surpasses older boys, because you've seen battles of high intensity and caliber. With such a quick grasp, you understand how to improve, and I'm glad Kaoru's given you the opportunity to reflect and analyze. You've spent a relatively short time in the dojo, so you respond well to clear instructions. And of course, well-deserved praise. I think it is the right balance."

Yahiko smiled. "Was that how you taught Kaoru?"

"I would say so. She appreciated the history of kenjutsu, and I would weave it into teaching points. Kaoru has an excellent intuition and unlike most, she could give it the right words. Even when she was a little girl, she would tell me what she wanted to focus on in practice." He thought of her smaller form, cheeks puffed out as she declared her newest aspiration. The memory was sweet, ruined by the present anxiety, a dark cloud on the horizon.

The conversation had to end there, given the time. However, Yahiko stalled at the gate. "Kamiya-san? Is there anything else I can do here?"

"No, it's alright. You can go into town. Takani-san must have finished her examination, and I'll take over in her stead."

"Misao and Aoshi are still out, huh? How long does it take to plan a boat trip anyway?"

Actually, Makimachi had confided that they were going to train. She was looking particularly enthusiastic, while Shinomori was stoic as ever. "They're doing a thorough job, and we'll trust in them. I'll see you later, Yahiko." With one last wave to each other, Koshijiro closed the gate.

He went to Himura's door, and Takani quickly emerged. The dark circles under her eyes were fainter, but she was still taut as a bowstring. "I'm running late!" The number of clinic patients had increased, not just from the attacks, but also the change in weather.

"Dr. Gensai will understand."

"I've always been punctual, it'll hurt my pride otherwise. Now, there's tea and broth that can be reheated for Ken-san if he feels like drinking again. It'll sustain him but if he doesn't eat, I'll have to resort to drastic measures." She frowned.

"As always, thank you for your hard work."

"I'll be back in the afternoon." With that brisk promise, she was off.

And Koshijiro entered Himura's room.

His position had not changed: sitting against the wall, the chained reverse blade clutched tightly in his hands. Koshijiro sat across from him, watching for any movement. Again, his eyes were resigned and lifeless.

Koshijiro cleared his throat. "The weather is nice today. If you don't mind, I'll open the window." The fresh air swept in, and he realized how stagnant it had been in this room. But if he was going to talk to Himura, they could not be in darkness.

He glanced at the other man, who had turned his face away from the sunshine pouring in. The abundance of red hair had fallen like a curtain.

"I will close it afterwards, but if you are cold, please let me know." He didn't expect a response, but then, a single word floated up.

"Why?"

"You asked me that last time, but I'm not sure how to answer. Are you able to tell me more?" Koshijiro kept his voice low, neutral, without judgment.

An exhale. "Why are you not angry with this one?"

"Angry?" He was genuinely surprised. "No, Himura-san, not at all. You fought hard to protect Kaoru."

"Not enough. This one couldn't." Himura retreated further, curling into a ball.

Koshijiro remained quiet for a few moments before continuing. "And you are lost within yourself."

Chain links rattled and the red curtain shifted. Himura was looking right at him, in startled affirmation.

He pressed on. "You are a swordsman, defined by your abilities and successes. That was unfortunately amplified by the war; your superiors in the Ishin Shishi were enraptured by your skills, at the cost of overlooking the man behind them. But I'm not going to analyze the fight. I am here to find you."

Himura took a shaky breath, blinking against the light. "As Hitokiri Battousai, this one committed countless murders. This one has tried to atone, and it is not enough. Whatever is left of this one is unworthy."

"That is not true." Koshijiro severely said, but Himura's gaze had already drifted into vacancy. His sense of shame ran deep, entangled in his spirit. In this precarious state, it was too dangerous to push him.

It was excruciatingly silent until Makimachi and Shinomori returned. He let them take over, while he headed into town. He initially intended to speak to Saito, but he was informed by the front that the man was caught in administrative meetings for the day, saddled with acting chief inspector responsibilities.

He walked towards the office, expecting a mountain of paperwork on his desk. However, when he entered the room, his space was free of clutter. Instead, the rookies were barely visible under a heavier than usual workload. Shinichi spotted him first, dropping his pen as he hastily stood. The others followed suit, greeting in a staggered chorus.

"Officer Kamiya!"

"Hello, everyone."

"You're not back yet, are you?"

"It's too soon!"

He hesitated. "I was…running an errand. What have you been assigned?" He approached the nearest desk and read his name on the first stack. "These are mine?"

"We asked for them!"

"You don't have to worry at all, alright?"

"Take it easy, Officer Kamiya!"

Their kindness touched him. "Thank you. I hope not to inconvenience you for much longer." When this was over, he would have to treat them heartily.

And at the last minute, he decided to carry out another task. Gritting his teeth, Koshijiro began writing on a fresh sheet of paper. He certainly was not begging Hiko, and he doubted he'd even receive an answer. It was only a brief message that Himura was injured, which was the truth. But after the envelope slipped into the mailbox, he felt a twinge of uncertainty.

Most likely, the letter will not be read in time.

That evening, Himura did finish a bowl of broth, which was a small victory. Despite his anguish, he wasn't actively giving up. They held onto that knowledge, as they reviewed the plan just outside his room. Takani was already prepared, her stock of medical supplies fully replenished. Meanwhile, Shinomori and Makimachi provided their updates.

From her pocket, the Oniwaban leader brought out a list with a flourish. "Here we go! This is the remainder of our inventory, including fuel and food rations. Everything's been tucked away in the Heishin Products Company basement."

"Wasn't it there to begin with?" Yahiko pointed out.

"Well, the police confiscated most of the goods but we deserve some compensation, right? And I'm still waiting for my new kunai, Jiiya's sending them from Kyoto. They're a different alloy, so they'll pierce better…" She trailed off. "Oh, sorry! Basically, we're covered as soon as we have a destination!"

Shinomori shook his head. "And we have not determined that yet."

It was to be expected, it had only been a day since they obtained their lead. But Koshijiro was impatient. He let out a breath. "Then, I will have to ask the assistant chief inspector."

The timing couldn't have been better, because there was a call from outside. "It's Saito. Open up."

Takani volunteered, though she returned with an additional guest in tow. She seemed much more at ease around the presence of Tokio. "Thank you for the mochi, we'll enjoy them. There's leftover tea for both of you."

"It's kind of you to offer, but we won't be long." Tokio answered, as Saito grunted and took a seat in their circle. His gaze flickered to the closed door but he didn't acknowledge it otherwise.

"I'll make this quick. First, we've narrowed our search to the southern waters. There are a few small islands, mainly uninhabited, that look promising. We will continue to gather intel."

"Let us help you." Shinomori uttered, and Makimachi jumped in as well.

"Please! Espionage and subterfuge are our specialties."

"Give us the morning, to tie up any loose ends. Then, you can offer your services." He bluntly said, turning once more to Koshijiro. "Meanwhile, your naval friend is assembling his own team, and they will arrive at the end of the week, with two armed ships. Congratulations, Kamiya." Despite the monotonous delivery, the news was welcome.

"Hayashi is a good friend, and I look forward to seeing him."

Saito curtly nodded. "Second, Tokio can watch your home while you're gone."

"Thank you." Koshijiro said, surprised.

"It's no trouble." Tokio gave a gracious smile. "In fact, it's the least I can do. The boys will have to come with me, but we won't leave any trace that we were here."

"And lastly," The third matter had to be unpleasant, because Saito spat the words. "I had to negotiate terms with Shanghai. They will increase security and naval patrols…but if Yukishiro turns up at their port or is found on Chinese land, they'll keep him and turn over all other non-Chinese companions to us. If he's arrested in Japan, they can pursue extradition after we try him in our court."

It sounded perfectly acceptable to Koshijiro, though Saito appeared livid at the possibility that Yukishiro could be swiped away from the end of his katana. Well, he wouldn't protest; it would be motivating. "So, we'll devote everything we have to their location."

"With absolute swiftness." The assistant chief inspector declared, and he led his wife to the front door. "When I give notice, all of you have to be prepared to fight."

The emphasis wasn't lost on them, nor the final glance to the unseen Himura.

Yahiko straightened up. "We will. For sure."

They turned in for the night, and Koshijiro stared at his ceiling in deep thought. Today's attempt had not been successful, and there was no room for further missteps. Tomorrow, the discussion would have to lay everything bare. His thoughts folded and refolded, as he considered Himura. Not the assassin, not the wanderer. The man himself.

Just before falling asleep, he knew. In order to learn, there first had to be a solid foundation. And Koshijiro was a teacher.

At dawn, he woke on his own and he felt tranquility settle over him like an outer robe. Not wanting to wake anyone else, he quietly made his way to Himura's room. Shinomori was sitting just inside, head lowered, though he did start when Koshijiro loomed over him. Then, he nodded towards the sleeping form of Himura, back still against the wall. After a moment, he wordlessly left, leaving the two of them alone. Koshijiro drew closer, taking the position directly across Himura.

He sat in meditation, for close to an hour, before Himura finally stirred. His shoulders lifted a fraction, and through his bangs, his eyes slowly opened.

"Good morning." Koshijiro greeted. "Would you like tea? I can make some."

A verbal response never came, though in a very slight motion, he shook his head.

"That's alright. Let me know if you change your mind. It's a new day." He stood and opened the window, allowing crisp air to flow in. "And so, we will start over."

"…how?" Ah, so his interest was piqued.

Koshijiro steeled himself; this was the point of no return, he would have to choose every word carefully. "Himura-san, until now, you've been motivated by guilt and shame. I'm not saying that you shouldn't feel a sense of remorse, but in excess, it consumes you. I know." He said, his voice raw. "I understand. So, believe me when I say that it cannot be everything you feel. You've stayed with us for months. Was it only because of guilt?"

"No!" Himura vehemently answered. It was the strongest response he had since Kaoru was kidnapped. A good sign.

"Then, what have you felt? You can start from the beginning, when you first met Kaoru."

For a long while, Himura did not speak. And then, he haltingly said. "It was...the end of winter. This one wandered to Tokyo. A chilly evening. In the darkness, this one heard a voice. Kaoru-dono, calling the name of Battousai. A coincidence, she did not know at the time. She was defending Kamiya Kasshin's reputation. It was the Hiruma brothers, and you know that part of the story, Kamiya-dono."

"Yes, I do."

"This one...was very grateful to Kaoru-dono. And touched by her words, her devotion to Kamiya Kasshin and the ideal of a world where swords were not used to kill. This one thought it wouldn't be bad, to stay for a while. To watch her regain students, to build that better world. And you returned the following week."

"I apologize again for trying to punch you."

Himura didn't smile or laugh, but there was a flicker of light in his gaze, a spark amidst the emptiness. "It was this one's fault too, for not being clear. Still, this one felt...comfortable. Useful, to cook meals and do laundry and clean the house. Kaoru-dono was always kind, talking about the day and the townsfolk. Who to buy groceries from, who was friendly. And with you, she was much happier. This one can tell you are close." He paused. "Then, we met Yahiko."

"That's right. I understand that you convinced him to learn Kamiya Kasshin. I admit, I wasn't so sure of him at first. But he's become more mature and disciplined, a good student. What did you see in him? How did you meet?"

"He stole this one's wallet. But…this one knew right away, he had the potential of a swordsman. This one went to help him from the yakuza, so he could become a student of the Kamiya dojo. And he has become much stronger, in body and spirit."

"He has and I'm glad you brought him here. He is vastly different from the wayward pickpocket, and his future is brighter, now that he understands the weight and responsibility of the sword that protects." Koshijiro then prompted. "He wasn't the only young man who's changed."

"Sanosuke. His first wish was to fight this one, as a representative of the Sekihoutai. Since that day, his boldness has not wavered at all. But instead of thirst for battle, he raises his fists for the group. He is a loyal friend."

Hopefully, Sagara was faring well. Was he out of trouble at least? Had he reunited with his family? "Yes, he certainly is. Impatient, perhaps, but in the hour of need, he will never abandon the ones he cares for." He had just finished the sentence, when the door suddenly opened.

Takani's eyes were round with astonishment at the two of them, the tray in her hands shaking slightly. "I heard voices and I thought…never mind, both of you can keep going. It's obvious you're not finished yet. But you have to eat something! Raid the kitchen if you don't want mochi and tea, the house is all yours for today." Immediately, she set down the breakfast and as she hurried out, she looked to Koshijiro. Her gaze was misty in gratitude, and she mouthed a thank you. She closed the door with a rattle, and faintly, Koshijiro thought he heard Makimachi's questioning voice and Takani's brisk response, before silence returned again.

"That was surprisingly good timing." He poured the tea and slid a cup to Himura. "She must be headed for the clinic. Takani-san is becoming an excellent doctor; Dr. Gensai never fails to tell me how much she's progressed."

"It is her way to atone." Himura softly said. "To use her skills to heal others instead of leading them to the grave."

Koshijiro sensed they were treading too close to the dark precipice again and he hastily moved on. "It wasn't long after that, the Maekawa dojo incident occurred. I remember you offered to accept the challenge instead, and how you defeated Raijuuta for Yutaro's sake."

"It was all this one could do." He deflected, but his eyes met Koshijiro's. "Kaoru-dono has embraced the role of head instructor."

"She has, and I'm incredibly proud of her." And he was anxious for her to be safe, without a single lasting injury. The idea of her in danger was gnawing at him; he quickly pivoted to their discussion. "What happened afterwards…? Ah, then we met Sagara-san's friend. I'm not sure whether he enjoyed our get-together at the dojo."

"He was intending to bomb the Department of Internal Affairs."

That was news to Koshijiro. "I didn't know about this." He took one of the mochi, biting into it. The slight sweetness filled his mouth and he carefully pushed the tray closer to Himura.

"This one did not want to wake anyone else, but Sanosuke and Tsunan were already leaving. The latter still held a grudge against the Meiji government, and Sanosuke helped in stopping him." Himura quietly explained. "So, no harm occurred."

"Thank you. You protected the city's peace." He did vaguely recall a rumor about a break-in, that had paled in comparison to the ensuing events. "I believe Saito-san appeared not long after."

Himura slowly nodded. "To recruit this one."

"However, you didn't want to break your vow."

"…no. But this one did not know how to decline. As a hitokiri, and then on the front lines, this one followed orders without protest. But…with everyone's support, this one felt like he could refuse. Until the late minister was killed."

"And so, you changed your mind."

"This one could not stand by, to allow Shishio to bring destruction and death."

"I agree. It would not be like you at all. That was why none of us were surprised. We were sad for you, but we understood." Koshijiro's ears burned at the confession. Was that right to say? Yes, sad had to be the appropriate label for how they felt, how he felt at the time.

"In Kyoto, this one…did not expect to see Kaoru-dono and Yahiko."

"Yes, they followed you." There was another unbearably long pause. And Koshijiro grasped for a thought. "Because we care for you and worry about you." It was embarrassing, but he had to keep going. "You were doing the right thing, to stop Shishio, but we would never let you succumb into the depths. To remind you of who you are, the man who belonged at the Kamiya dojo."

"Belonged?" Himura repeated, his eyes questioning.

"You still do." Koshijiro gruffly said. "It was not the same without you. Emptier, colder, without your presence. While I was watching the house, there were inquiries about where you'd gone and where Kaoru and Yahiko were. As for myself, I had to clean the shed as a distraction from loneliness. I was very glad when I finally received the telegram of your victory."

With so much talking, his mouth was dry. He gulped down the lukewarm tea, trying to dampen the flush of discomfort. If he had his handkerchief, he'd wipe his forehead. Talking about his feelings was not his strength. Absolutely not. But for Himura, who needed to find himself again, this was necessary. It was the most important thing right now.

"You did visit every week. It must have been tiring to travel."

"I was only tired when I returned to the empty house. Otherwise, seeing everyone and observing your progress made the frequent trips worth it."

"Kyoto holds many memories." Then, without prompting, Himura said. "But the exercises, the training, the rebuilding and the festival…those are what this one wants to remember about the city."

Koshijiro carefully looked at him. Perhaps, the darkness had receded a touch, but he was not free of it yet. A little further, as if he was turning, at the base of a long set of steps. Koshijiro offered his hand, fingers splayed, and caught the flicker of Himura's upward gaze. Better. "And when we were home, your true desire was granted. Kaoru welcomed you, just like this."

"She did." His voice was barely a whisper. "And it was peaceful again, until Enishi arrived. This one did not mean to hide the past, but it was painful to share."

He quickly emphasized. "None of us blame you. We were only worried about you. It is why we fought the other lackeys, and we were glad to lend our support to you." They had reached the present, at the steepest obstacle; there was no point in reminding Himura of that horrendous night. Koshijiro hesitated, staring at the sakabato. "Now…you have locked up your sword. Why did you do that?"

"Because this one hasn't found it yet. The answer…" He gripped the sakabato in fierce desperation. "What is the answer to atone for all of this one's sins? The vow this one made…it was not enough…"

"And you're right." At this concession, he glanced up and Koshijiro explained. "You traveled all of Japan, with your oath to never kill again with the sword. But those words carried an assassin's regret as well. Like the chains between your hands, that mindset shackled you to your past."

"So, was this one wrong the whole time?"

Whether Himura was right or wrong, that was not for Koshijiro to decide. And perhaps, not even for humans to judge. But the answer was elsewhere entirely, at the top of the foundation they'd been building over the course of the morning. This was the true meaning of their discussion.

"When we first met, I was…blinded by my own assumptions and stubbornly stuck to them. And I only want what is best for Kaoru. But, I was misguided." Koshijiro bowed his head. He wasn't certain whether he was choosing the right words, and it was painfully difficult. Here in this moment, he was going to be completely honest. "I understand what she saw in you. You are a selfless man, who has been attentive to the needs of other people. You are always diligent and willing to lend your sword if a fight is unavoidable. You may feel mired in darkness, and yet, with every action over these months, your heart has never wavered. So, what is your answer? It is a new vow."

"A new…vow." Himura echoed. The sun had moved with the day's passing, and the light cast over his face. His hair and eyes shone brighter; had the spark lit anew?

"We have talked for a long time and I already know what it is, but I'm not going to tell you." At Himura's confused expression, he clarified. "This is something you need to realize for yourself, to form in your own words. The reason, that Himura Kenshin should live for. Again and again through the memories we have gone over, you have demonstrated it. All you need to do is speak it."

And with that, Koshijiro brushed himself off and stood. "The tea is cold and it's nearly time for lunch. I'm going to the kitchen so I'll be right back." It was best that Himura have a moment to think anyway, and he wasn't concerned that the man would try to disappear again.

As for himself, he felt as if he'd undergone a purification ceremony. Exhausted, but with a sense of inner resolve. A satisfying and clean feeling. He had to smile wryly at that.

However, as soon as he approached the stove, there was a call from the gate. He hurried outside, and almost bumped into the smaller figure racing across the front yard. Yahiko was trying to catch his breath, the hilts of two shinai peeking over his shoulder, and he grasped Koshijiro's arm.

"Kamiya-san, come help!" He urged. "There's trouble in town!"

"Then, lead the way."

His gaze darted towards the house. "And Kenshin?"

"He's better but not ready yet. You can explain everything to me."

The boy began to run and Koshijiro increased his pace as well, as the words spilled. "I was with Tsubame, we were buying stuff for their new place. We were talking because she seemed down and…well, anyway, I was coming back here when I heard the Armstrong cannon!"

It had to be Kujiranami. "He must have broken out of his cell."

"Yeah, and we need to stop him! I grabbed my shinai and one for you."

"Thank you, Yahiko. What about the others? Shinomori-san, Makimachi-san?"

Yahiko shook his head. "After breakfast, Misao said they were going to join up with Saito's team. They think they've found a specific island."

Koshijiro's heart jumped. "Really? Where? Which one?"

"I don't know. She was already sprinting off and of course, Aoshi was totally silent."

"No, it's fine. I should have expected as much." Still, he hoped the lead would be fruitful.

"Um…there's something else. I told Tsubame. Kind of." He puffed, more exertion than anything. "Like, I said we'd all be together again soon. I know we weren't supposed to reveal the truth until this is over but she really looked sad, and I wanted to cheer her up." His expression was guilty, but Koshijiro only gave a reassuring smile.

"Don't worry. The secret is making us all feel guilty, and the intention was never to distress anyone. But we are close to our goal and I will bear responsibility later. For now, let's focus on neutralizing the threat."

At this point, they were a few blocks away from the station. However, smoke was billowing in its direction and the bells for the fire brigade were clanging. And then, there was a familiar explosive boom. It was the middle of the day, and people were confused. Some were standing still, others hastily retreating into their homes. No one was moving fast enough.

The scream of his name drew Koshijiro's attention, and he locked eyes with Shinichi, who was urgently waving. Koshijiro beckoned him off the main road. Yahiko quietly passed over the shinai, while the young man delivered the report in gasps.

"The cannon-armed guy! He's escaped!" Shinichi rambled, eyes wild. "The chief hasn't recovered and the assistant chief had to leave on urgent business. The station's blown up. A few units have gone to the army and headquarters, but it'll be another hour before they get here. We don't have a chain of command, everyone's going to die-"

"Officer Shinichi, take deep breaths." He laid his hand upon the young man's shoulder. "It'll be alright. Now, when your mind is calm, you can think clearly."

"Y-yes. I'm sorry, it's just that this situation is terrible…we need to evacuate the civilians!"

"Agreed. Who's here?"

"Our unit is on this street, but I don't know about anyone else."

"That will be enough." Koshijiro glanced over the rooftops. A distant crash made him grimace, and he said. "Time is short. We'll have to act fast, so gather the others."

At Shinichi's whistle, the remaining fourteen arrived within the minute. Their identical expressions were of nervousness and concern. Koshijiro split them into groups of three. "Kujiranami is a dangerous individual, not only because of his strength and weapon, but in his rage, he will not hold himself back. He has no targets in mind, so he will indiscriminately point the cannon anywhere. Our priority is evacuation! Fujisawa, Ikehira, Kato: the north. Maeda, Yoshihara, Abe: the west. Kobayashi, Tanaka, Shimizu: the east. Aoki, Tomita, Eguchi: the south. And for Shinichi, Nakamura, and Hoshi: fortify the end of the street. Gather any materials, recruit volunteers. Kujiranami will not go further than here."

"That's right!" Yahiko declared. "Kamiya-san and I will stop him! We can use the buildings as cover. We know the area, and together, we can flank him! We've got tactics!"

"…Huh?" The officers were taken aback.

"Yahiko's right. We may not have artillery or manpower, but we have our wits and skill. Most importantly, we have our composure. And…it's only fitting." Koshijiro gripped his shinai. "A one-armed opponent for a one-armed criminal."

"Kamiya-san…"

"Damn, that was good."

"I'd give my life today, I'm not afraid anymore!"

"No one's going to die today!" Yahiko admonished them. He tipped his chin to the bright blue sky and roared. "Let's go!"

Everyone couldn't help crying out, and then, they separated. People quickly filed out of the vicinity, thanks to the confident directions of the officers. Yahiko scrambled up to a rooftop for a vantage point, though Koshijiro repeatedly told him to be careful. "If he sees you, come down immediately."

"Got it. He's still headed this way, they're trying to shoot at him, but he isn't affected at all. His cannon looks a little different. Did he always have a bayonet attached to it?"

"That doesn't sound like the same weapon he was arrested with."

"How'd he get something like that?"

Koshijiro internally cursed. "It must have been from the prison. I remember when I had my inspection; there's a room with military grade weapons meant to suppress riots, per the chief jailer's proud request. Knowing Yukishiro, he must have designed the metal arm to be compatible with other machinery."

"Yahiko-kun!" They turned instinctively, finding Tsubame standing by the barricade of crates and planks. She must have returned. Her uncertain voice floated towards them. "You're fighting?"

"I have to. This is what I've decided, to protect people with Kamiya Kasshin. So, don't cry. Like I said earlier, we're all going to see each other again."

She stared for a moment, her face crestfallen before she clasped her hands together. "Then…I'm going to the Kamiya dojo! I will find Kenshin-san and tell him everything so he can help!"

"Thanks, Tsubame! Please talk to him!"

"Y-yes! I will!" Her eyes were fearful, but her head was held high as she ran.

"She's become stronger as well." Koshijiro noted.

"I believe in her. Kenshin too." Yahiko grinned at him. "And of course, the both of us."

Then, the clamor intensified, and the next explosion was much closer. The interval between blasts was shorter than previously, though not as strong. And then, a shadow appeared. Outlined by the glow of flames, he was seething, each step thunderous. If they failed, Kujiranami would rampage throughout the city, unchecked in his destruction.

Koshijiro stood in the middle of the street, lifting the shinai in a neutral position. He inhaled, filling his lungs, and shouted. The kiai was like crackling energy from his head to his feet, and he lowered his stance, connecting to the immovable earth.

Now, he could see the new cannon-arm. Above the bayonet, the barrel was smaller, more suitable for the chain of ammunition draped over Kujiranami's torso. Grenades. That explained the changes in reload time and force. "He's firing grenades. These attacks will be faster and more numerous." He explained to Yahiko.

"We gotta charge him."

"Yes, exactly."

"I'll take the right, Kamiya-san." The side with the weapon.

"Yahiko-"

"You're still recovering and I'm a smaller target. I'll be okay!"

There was no time to protest, because the man was picking up speed. Silently, he trusted Yahiko as they closed the distance. Swerving around, he aimed for the back of Kujiranami's head. The blow reverberated through Koshijiro's arm, but other than a pained grunt, Kujiranami shrugged it off. He swung the cannon and there was a glimpse of dark hair whirling away. Yahiko was barely dodging, but he was holding his own. A rivulet of blood trickled from the seam where metal attached to skin.

The hiss was the only warning, and Koshijiro crossed the nearest threshold, taking cover as a grenade exploded in the street. With the amount of ammunition Kujiranami bore, there was no possibility of wasting all his shots. But if the cannon was stuck, where the grenades fed into the barrel…that would eliminate the immediate danger.

"Battousai!" Kujiranami was still fixated on Himura.

Koshijiro rushed out, but the man didn't seem to register his presence, continuing to trudge forward. Yahiko emerged as well, saying. "We both landed hits, but he doesn't seem affected at all."

"What we should target is the loading mechanism of the cannon. There." Koshijiro pointed the end of his shinai to Kujiranami's upper arm. Since they were behind him, they could see where the grenades inserted into the underside of the weapon. "I can provide a distraction. Yahiko, can you find a way to jam the cannon?"

"I can do it! I already have an idea." He nodded confidently.

"Good. I believe in you as well." Then, after ensuring Yahiko had hidden in a nearby building, Koshijiro called out. "Kujiranami! You will never fight Hitokiri Battousai again!"

Fortunately, this caught his attention. He turned slowly, his face distorted in a sneer. "What?"

"The assassin died with the old era. You are clinging to the past, not even to a ghost, but to the time when your arm was cut off."

"By Battousai!"

"Because he did not want to take your life! For ten years, you have drowned in resentment and misery, for the sole reason that you were not given a warrior's death. You unfairly blame Himura-san, and you are wrong."

Kujiranami snarled, approaching closer. "How would you understand? You lost your left, not even your dominant hand!"

Koshijiro bellowed. "But you're not the only one who lost something and you're certainly not the only person who's ever suffered! Tell me, what have you done, other than cause more suffering?!"

The cannon-arm violently swung, and he was forced to retreat. He ducked, the grenade firing into the rooftop overhead. Dust, splinters, and heat washed over him. With the shinai, he charged once more. This time, he made it obvious, and as expected, he was parried by the metal barrel. The bayonet was now below Koshijiro's hand, aiming directly at his heart. Only the length of his arm was keeping Kujiranami at bay.

The other man's expression had become impassive. He seemed less like a raging beast, more human. Was he regaining his sanity? "Why aren't you bitter? You were a samurai once, weren't you?"

"Those days are over, and even so, I am not bitter because I know pride is nothing without honor. Do you truly believe you've acted as honorably as a samurai should? If you are able to see what you've done, you can stop yourself."

Something in his expression gave, but that hope was short-lived. "…I can't. Never. This is what I have left of my strength!" The cannon lowered, and Koshijiro's knees bent further. The bayonet slid, and sharp agony welled at his chest. But he couldn't disengage.

"Hadome!" A cry resounded, and Yahiko's short spiky hair appeared. The backs of his hands were catching the bayonet's base, preventing advancement. His core was strong. Every word was a struggle, yet brimming with willpower. "I won't let you hurt anyone else! Protecting people with the sword…that's my strength. That's how I want to live in the new era. Just like my friends! Kamiya Kasshin Ryuu: Hawatari!"

And then, he launched at Kujiranami and swung at his underarm. That was a weak spot for anyone, and the man recoiled. The bamboo had snapped with the amount of force, but that must have been the plan all along. The loading mechanism was perfectly lined up, and Yahiko inserted the broken hilt within. A harsh grinding noise followed.

"No! No!" Kujiranami howled. His other fist lashed out, knocking Koshijiro in the ribs. He was thrown aside, impacting the ground on his wounded shoulder. Stars of pain lit in his vision, as Kujiranami reached for Yahiko-

A flash of red descended from the sky. The blade shone on the opposite side of the sword, as nine attacks were unleashed in quick succession on Kujiranami. The three-point landing was unsteady, but Himura managed to right himself. In the daylight, he looked thinner and the dark circles under his eyes hadn't fully receded. But he was here. He had found his reason to stand again.

Relief flooded Koshijiro.

Yahiko swayed on his feet. "Kenshin!"

But Kujiranami remained standing, and he attempted to fire, the grinding worse. With a hoarse shout, Himura soared into the air and struck again, this time at the seam. The cannon clanked, severed from its owner, and dropped uselessly in the dirt. Kujiranami stared at it, then the stump of his arm. Unwrapped, the skin was rubbed raw and irritated, not like a decade-old wound.

"For a second time, I've been defeated." He uttered.

Himura replied. "Even if you wish it, this one will not kill you. You may not have your right hand, but you have a warrior's fighting spirit. That is how you've endured the past ten years, a strength that will surpass any weapon. Please, turn yourself in and continue to live in peace."

He bowed his head, but the tears on his face couldn't be concealed. "You, and Kamiya, and…who is this boy?" He looked to where he was protectively standing over Koshijiro.

"I'm Myojin Yahiko, of the Myojin family! My father was a samurai." Surely, Yahiko's father would be proud at the burning fire in his son's gaze.

"A worthy showdown then, and you all spoke honestly. Thank you…and I surrender." At these words, the officers jumped in with handcuffs and chains. Kujiranami was docile, with one lingering glance at the cannon before it was confiscated. He nodded at Koshijiro, who responded in kind.

He had mustered the energy to sit, and he exhaled. "Welcome back, Himura-san."

"Forgive this one, Kamiya-dono." His voice still sounded weak, but he limped towards them. "This one was nearly too late."

"It's alright. Have you found what you were seeking?"

"Yes. And thank you." Abruptly, his knee buckled and he fell to the ground but his fleeting smile was of relief. Koshijiro dragged his weary body next to him and Yahiko collapsed at his other side. They must have made quite a picture, laying on their backs together and though too tired to speak, they stayed in that little huddle.

A screech of braking wheels, and the slam of a door. Leaping over the barricade, Shinomori rushed towards them, with Saito and Makimachi in his wake. Medical bag in her grasp, Takani was squeezing through a gap, Tsubame closely at her heels.

Ah, good. Everyone was accounted for…except one person. And they would see her very soon. Koshijiro closed his eyes, and the last thing he registered before exhaustion set in was the city's budding applause.