#kaoru: stop calling me that! and here's the salt

[disgracefulthings]

I don't get why fanfic writers give Reki and Miya abusive families just so they can write a skate family story when there is a better and funnier option

Miya: Cherry, Joe, this is my Mom and Dad

Kaoru: Nice to meet you Mr and Mrs Chinen

Kojiro: I'm happy to finally meet you

Miya: Mom, Dad, this is Cherry Blossom, my skate Mom, and Joe, my skate Dad

Kojiro: Wait a second-

Kaoru: I never agreed to that!

[reikyaoi]

leon's day off

pairing; n/a word count; 4.1k characters; oogami koga, otogari adonis, kanzaki souma, hakaze kaoru, sakuma rei ao3 link

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“Leon’s a free spirit and a lone wolf. I let him off-leash so he can get all his energy out without me gettin’ in his way,” Koga shrugged. “He’ll come back if I call him though.” 

Turning around to amplify his voice towards the general direction he watched him sprint in, Koga shouted, “Leon!” 

… And nothing happened. No corgi came bounding for him from any direction.

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gift for @uglytsumugi12, you were my assignment for the enstars new years gift exchange 2022!! i hope you enjoy this silly little koga centric fic <3

As much as he loved him to death, even Koga could admit winter was not Leon’s best season in terms of agreeability. 

Despite his well behaved nature, shaped by multiple years of Koga’s meticulous training, Leon was curious in nature. It's as if he seemingly forgot how to act when temperatures dropped. He loved exploring, playing in snow, forcing Koga out into below freezing temperatures at 6am so he could go run around and get snow all over his coat…

Koga sighed. He can’t be annoyed with him really. He’s the one that signed up for the responsibility of having a dog, and Leon was always worth the turmoil. Doesn’t negate the fact that the streets are completely covered in ice that has yet to be salted, Koga has to be at school in two hours, and Leon is dragging him along to get to the park so he can run around off leash, and Koga has nearly slipped and ate shit about four times now. 

“Quit tuggin’... We’re gonna get there soon, and then you can run around all you want without nearly killin’ me, okay?” Leon had stopped momentarily to pee on someone’s potted plant. He blinked at Koga owlishly. Koga, unamused, blinked back at him. The second he was done with his break, he darted off ahead of him, nearly pulling his arm off.

Two near death experiences and a little treat bribery later, and they finally made it to the dog park. Once there, they made it a safe distance into the park before Koga bent down to unclip Leon’s leash. Free at last, Leon dashed off into another direction, to do who knows what in the snow. Probably take a shit, Koga’s brain supplied. 

“Oogami.” 

Koga nearly jumped out of his skin at the hand appearing on his shoulder. When he whipped around, his attacker revealed himself to just be Adonis, joined quietly by Souma at his side. 

“Jesus fuck, I thought I was about to be mugged. Always so damn quiet…” 

“I apologize Oogami. I did not mean to sneak up on you.”

“...S’okay. I can’t really be mad when you apologize so earnestly…” Souma, looking for an opportunity to make his presence apparent, bowed. “Hello, Oogami-dono.”

“Zakki, hey… What are you two doing out here?” 

Adonis smiled. “Kanzaki needs to bring Kamegorou back to the marine life club for a check-up with Shinkai-senpai. We decided to take him with us while we went on our morning jog, so that we don’t have to go back and get him. It ended up being more of a walk to accommodate him… But it was nice.” 

Koga looked down between the two of them and finally noticed what Souma was carrying- a small clear plastic pet carrier lit from the inside by a warming light, with a perch rock and a small bit of water. Laying on the rock was a small pond turtle shell, presumably with its head and legs tucked inside.

Koga looked at the carrier, confused. “Is it not… too cold to be carryin’ that thing around…” 

Souma’s face dropped at the question, “I truly hope not. I’ve been doing my best to keep him warm. I’m unsure if the lighting fixture I’ve installed in his carrier is enough. We’ve been stopping in shops periodically to make sure he doesn’t freeze. I am beginning to think this was not the great plan I had thought it to be… But I acted selfishly. I did not want to give up on my morning run with Adonis…”

“Kanzaki. I would not have taken offense to you canceling for a day if you had other responsibilities.” 

“I know… As I said, I was acting selfishly. I enjoy spending time with you and did not want to miss an opportunity to do so,” Souma lamented.

“Ah… That means very much to me, Kanzaki. You truly are a dear friend to me.”

“Adonis…”

Koga looked between the two of them with thinly veiled discomfort at the quarrel he had been forced into witnessing, if you could even call it that. “So if you two are going on a walk with the turtle… Why’re you at the dog park?”

Souma brightened at the reminder of why they were there, “Adonis saw you and suggested that Kamegorou-san meet your dog. He spoke very highly of how well behaved Leon is, and if Adonis says he is well trained, I trust him.” Souma looked back at Adonis as they exchanged fond smiles. “We saw him with you just a moment ago. Where did he go?”

“Leon’s a free spirit and a lone wolf. I let him off-leash so he can get all his energy out without me gettin’ in his way,” Koga shrugged. “He’ll come back if I call him though.” 

Turning around to amplify his voice towards the general direction he watched him sprint in, Koga shouted, “Leon!” 

… And nothing happened. No corgi came bounding for him from any direction.

Koga, suppressing an instinctive anxiety, tried again. Louder this time, Koga shouted, “LEON!” 

And still, nothing happened. 

“God fucking damnit where did he go,” Koga grumbled. Leon was well trained, and rarely ever ran off without coming back. Koga also highly doubted he could get very far on his little legs. “Fuck, I don’t know where the hell he went.”

“Would you like us to help you look for him?” Adonis asked, concern clear in his eyes.

“Ah… Fuck, yeah, if you can.” Koga gave in. Souma pressed his carrier closer to his body and wrapped his arms around it completely in an attempt to keep its passenger as warm as possible, and then the three of them set off in different directions, all shouting Leon’s name. 

After about ten minutes of walking around the park, Koga finally started to allow himself some internal panic. Leon never did this. Even when he was being trained as a puppy, he never strayed far from Koga for very long, especially not after having his name called. Not responding when his name was called implied that Leon was far enough away to not be able to hear him calling. Did he run away? Did someone take him? It was about 7am at this point. There were only about two other owner and dog pairs here right now, both caught up in their own little worlds. Still, he approached them and asked if they had seen an orange corgi running around anywhere. Both said they hadn’t been paying attention. A little negligent of them, Koga muttered under his breath as he turned away. Koga never didn’t pay attention to what the other dogs at the park were doing, just in case any of them were misbehaved enough to try anything… Except now Koga was the negligent one because he just left his dog completely unattended while he talked to his friends and now his best friend was lost and he was never gonna see him again-

“Oogami.” Adonis put a hand on his shoulder, snapping him out of his thoughts for the second time that morning. “Oh. I did it again. I apologize, Oogami.”

Souma piped up, “Unfortunately, me and Adonis did not make any meaningful progress towards finding your dog. We searched the entire left side of the park, and both found nothing. I’m sorry we couldn’t be of any help.” He paused, “... and unfortunately, it is 7:30… Classes start in half an hour…” He trailed off, looking extremely guilty that he had to put his studies over finding Koga’s friend. “It would be unwise of us to show up so late and risk punishment… And I also need to assure Kamegorou-san is properly warmed up.”

“If you would like, we can help you the moment we get out of school today. Kanzaki and I both feel deeply responsible for Leon running off, since we distracted you with our presence while you were watching him. So we will both do anything we can to help you reunite with him. I apologize that we cannot do more for him now.” Adonis said, hand still placed comfortingly on Koga’s shoulder. 

As always, when the two of them were being so earnest with him, it was very hard to be upset at them for what he knew was ultimately his mistake. There were three things that Koga took more seriously than anything in the world. #1 was being a member of Undead, #2 was practicing his guitar, and #3 was being Leon’s owner. He knew that despite Adonis and Souma’s claim to guilt, the blame for Leon straying too far away was on him. 

“... I think I’m gonna keep lookin’ for him for a bit. Student council be damned; it’s not like I’ve been extremely late all that often. I just gotta hope they’ll make an exception this time. Leon’s too important not to keep lookin’... You two can go though. I’ll come bother ya if I really do need help after school though.” Koga was desperately trying to keep his cool and not show how stressed he truly was. There was an image to maintain, after all. 

Adonis looked at him unsure. “Kanzaki, maybe we should stay… I would feel truly terrible if something were to happen to Leon because Oogami could not find him in time…” 

“Nah, seriously, you guys are good to go. Leon’s tough, I trained him to attack if he senses bad intentions. Unfortunately, he hasn’t attacked Hakaze-senpai yet, but hopefully he’ll get there one day.” Koga said, only about 90% sarcastically. 

Souma giggled at that, while Adonis gave him a look of confusion, “Why would Hakaze-senpai have bad intentions with Leon?” 

“Agh, nevermind, I forgot you two don’t always understand sarcasm…I’m just sayin’, he can handle himself. Besides, he’s got on a collar with my phone number on it. Nobody’s gonna think he's a stray.” 

Having been reassured of Leon’s supposed strength, Adonis relented. “Okay. If you say he’s strong, we will go. Please let us know if you do need our help.” And with that, Adonis and Souma said their farewells and headed off. Koga sighed. Reassuring Adonis did actually help to reassure himself that Leon would be fine. Leon didn’t look anything like the strays that wander around the area. He’s a well taken care of, 12kg corgi. If anyone found him, they would call him. 

Confidence in his ability to find Leon restored. He set off to search the entire park again. 

How far away could Leon truly even get?

───────

Pretty fucking far, apparently. 

He had searched the entire park, the park's direct exterior, up and down the streets surrounding it, hell, he even had begun to retrace his steps and walk back to ES, hoping that Leon was smart enough to know his way back home. 

By the time the clock had reached 9:30, Koga knew he had to give up for now and take Adonis and Souma up on their offer to help look for him after school. He could tell he wasn’t doing a very good job at not wearing his emotions on his sleeve, because the second he walked in the room, they both gave him a slight look of pity that he pretended not to see. 

All day, Koga couldn't stop checking his phone. It was truly baffling to him that no one had called and said they had found him yet. He couldn't stop bouncing his leg up and down and fidgeting with pen and looking out the window and checking the clock. He was so antsy, he felt like he was gonna explode. 

The minute they were dismissed, he bolted from his seat, ready to go resume the search. 

Adonis and Souma followed swiftly behind him. “Did you really find no leads while you were out this morning, Oogami-dono?,” Souma asked. “You were gone for an extra two hours…” 

Koga glared. “If I found somethin’, do you think I’d be rushing out the door like this Zakki?!” Souma wrinkled his nose at Koga’s tone, but said nothing in response, reasoning that he was being even more snippy than usual because of his lost friend. If Souma lost one of his dear friends, like Kamegorou or Saigoudon, he doesn’t think he’d be very calm either. 

“Where did you leave off your search, Oogami?” Adonis spoke up.

“I was heading back towards ES to see if Leon had somehow gone back home without me. But I realized how late it was getting, so I called it quits… Let’s split up. Zakki, go towards ES and see if he somehow made his way back towards that area. Adonis, you come with me and we’ll both look around the area of the dog park separately.”

They both nodded, and they all headed off on their separate missions. 

───────

As the sun began to set, Koga allowed himself to feel an emotion he had not allowed himself to feel all day: dread. He and Adonis had searched an even wider area than he was able to cover this morning. He had begun to ask locals if they had seen a corgi waddling around, but both of them had come up empty handed on any sort of lead. 

Only around 6pm did they finally allow themselves a break. They found a nice local cafe to get a rest from the cold in, just to warm up a bit before they ultimately headed back to ES. Adonis watched as Koga took a phone call while he got their drinks. “Was that someone calling about Leon?” 

Koga sighed. “Nah. It was Sengoku calling on Zakki’s behalf. He didn’t find anything in the direct area around ES. Leon isn’t there.” 

Adonis frowned at that, “I’m truly sorry, Oogami. I cannot shake the feeling this is my fault…” 

“S’not your fault, I already told you that. You don’t have’ta feel guilty over it, Adonis. It was me who shouldn’ta let him off the leash in the first place. He never does stuff like this though! He’s never just run away from me like that before… And I mean honestly, how far could he have even gotten?!” 

Adonis frowned at Koga’s attempt at a joke. “So what is your plan n-”

“I’m so sorry to interrupt. Did you two gentlemen say you were looking for a corgi?”

Koga immediately shot to attention. One of the cafe’s waitresses had timidly approached the table. “Yes. Why? Have you seen one? What do you know?!” Koga frantically asked. Her eyes widened, slightly, at the sudden outburst of her patron. 

“I… Two gentlemen came in here earlier, one of them was carrying a corgi. They got drinks and dessert, and a small cup of whipped cream for him, dined, and then left…I vaguely remember them discussing needing to return him to his owner.”

Holy shit. Leon WAS kidnapped! He was fucking dognapped! Whoever the bastards were, they knew they had stolen the Oogami Koga’s dog, and they were gonna ransom him out for money! Or something potentially worse! Koga didn’t know what he was gonna do, he was an idol sure, but he didn’t have Leon ransom money?! Maybe he can convince the company to pay, or get Tenshouin to use some rich person trickery bullshit to figure out who kidnapped his damn dog-

“May I ask, what did they all look like?,” Adonis asked. “Both the dog and the two men,” he added. 

She thought about it for a second, “The dog… was orange with white patches on his face and belly.  Definitely a corgi breed.” Adonis and Koga shared a quick look. Definitely Leon. “And the two men… One had long-ish black hair, and scarlet eyes, and the other had blonde hair and brown eyes, but- oh, they kinda looked grey when the light hit them right. He was very charming, the way he talked, and-”

When Adonis looked back to Koga, he could practically feel the rage billowing off him in hot waves. “Those fucking assholes.” Cutting off the women from her rambling about how this handsome blonde stranger’s casual flirtatious compliments made her double shift totally worth it, Koga angrily grabbed his jacket and got up. Adonis quickly bowed in apology towards her as he followed Koga out the door. “I’m seriously gonna kill ‘em this time. They stole my fucking dog!” 

“Oogami. We don’t know why Sakuma-senpai and Hakaze-senpai took Leon. We have to hear them out first.” 

“I’m not hearin’ shit from the two of them! They’re both gonna fuckin’ die today!” 

───────

The door to the Rhythm Link office space Rei and Kaoru were occupying slammed open. Koga was immediately greeted with the sight of the two of them lounging on the couches located at the back wall, filling out paperwork. And there, on Kaoru’s lap being absentmindedly pet, was Leon, napping without a care in the world. He seethed even more. 

“YOU TWO.” Rei and Kaoru both looked up at him with surprise. Rei shook it off quickly, “Doggy. We were hoping you would stop by today.” Noticing Adonis standing anxiously behind Koga, Rei smiled at him. “Ah, hello to you as well, Adonis-kun.” 

“Hello, Sakuma-senpai.”

“Don’t be nice to these thieves!,” Koga said as he turned around to reprimand Adonis. He whipped back around. “You two stole my dog!” 

Having been woken up from his nap, Leon finally noticed his owner’s presence. He immediately hauled himself up, and Kaoru unfolded himself to allow Leon to jump off his lap and bound towards Koga. As soon as he reached grabbing distance, Koga snatched Leon up into his arms. He hugged him close and pressed his face into the side of his neck. 

“Fuckin’ scared me…” Koga whispered into his neck, soft enough so only Leon could hear. Angry as he was, having Leon back in his arms significantly dampened the rage he had felt. Not that he was gonna let his seniors know that though. 

He adjusted Leon so that he was pressed against his chest, head on his shoulder as if he were a baby. Koga stood up, made sure his dog was still comfortable, then glared at Rei and Kaoru. “Alright, ‘fess up. Why did you two take my dog, and then not bother to tell me you had him all day? I was goin’ crazy all day thinking I lost him. It’s really pissin’ me off that you two had him all day and didn’t fuckin’ tell me.”

Rei yawned. “Are you not glad that he was found and isn’t out there wandering the frozen streets? He even got to spend his day being spoiled by his favorite grandparents~” 

“Don’t call yourself that!” 

Rei shrugged as he continued absentmindedly filling out whatever bullshit paperwork they had been working on. Kaoru, at least, had the decency to look guilty. “We were gonna bring him back to you, honest!” 

Koga continued to glared, unimpressed with this answer. Kaoru shrank back, still attempting to hold a kind smile, but evidently crumbling under his gaze. “Rei-kun and I were going out for brunch and we found him running around in an alley. Since you weren’t with him, we figured he was lost but my phone was dead, and Rei-kun’s-” Kaoru looked at Rei, exacerbated. “You wanna tell Koga-kun what happened to your phone?” 

Koga switched his attention back to Rei, who now looked like he was actively trying to hide from this conversation, paperwork entirely covering his face. Realizing he had become the center of attention, he slowly lowered them, a feigned nonchalant smile on his face. “Ah… well… It’s truly an almost chivalrous story, if you think about i-”

“Rei-kun.” 

Rei deflated at his partner's condemnation. “... You see, Kaoru-kun and I attended a dinner meeting last night to meet with Hasumi-kun, Kiryuu-kun, a handful of representatives from an advertising firm, and some of the companies’ higher ups to discuss some business about our units’ involvement in an upcoming advertising campaign for a brand of instant ramen. It was truly a beautiful establishment that they booked, with a dazzling view of the city skyline, and you could even get a stunning view of the ocean-”

“Get to the fuckin’ point.” Koga barked.

“... In my, truly noble might I add, attempt to get Kaoru-kun a picture of the view with my mobile phone’s camera… It seems that I was not being careful enough, and I dropped it off the balcony.” Rei hung his head in shame at the admission. “The representatives, at least, found my fumble amusing.”

“And so, neither of us had phones we could use to call you. We were planning on just taking Leon-chan back to you when you were done with classes, and we were done with all this paperwork, but it's ended up taking much longer than we thought it would.” Kaoru finished, sighing over the misfortune.

Koga squinted at the two of them. “That all sounds like a buncha bullshit you two made up. What’s the real version?”

Kaoru frantically shook his head. “Nonono! I promise it’s the truth!! Believe me, I wish I could make up the story of Rei dropping his phone off a balcony in front of all those important businessmen. Hasumi-kun was not happy with us on the ride back to the dorms…” 

Adonis interrupted to ask, “Did it hit anyone when it fell? I cannot imagine that would have ended well if it had.” 

“Thankfully, it did not.” Rei said, mood shifting back to being annoyingly playful. “To be quite honest, I do not understand why Hasumi-kun was so displeased with my actions. The representatives loved it, and it’s not as if it was his mobile phone-”

“Shaddup. You two are idiots.” Koga said, finally reaching his limit with the conversation. “C’mon Leon. Let’s get you cleaned up since you were apparently playin’ in the trash. Let’s go, Adonis.” 

“Koga-kun!” As the three of them turned to leave, Kaoru suddenly got up to stop them. “We’re sorry. Really. We didn’t mean to scare you so bad. We know how much Leon-chan means to you, so we thought it was best if we looked after him. We should’ve found a way to tell you sooner.” 

Rei nodded in agreement. “Rei-chan is weally sowwy~”

Kaoru scowled, Koga scoffed. Realizing his error in determining the mood, he quickly added, “Ah, I mean, what I meant was that we are truly sorry, Koga-kun. Kaoru-kun is right when he said that we should have made more substantial attempts to contact you. We apologize.” As if planned, they both bowed to him and Leon in sincere apology. 

“Oogami, I think they are serious.” Adonis whispered. 

“... Did you guys at least feed him?”

Kaoru perked up at that, “Yes! I used some steak pieces that someone left in the fridge with a “free to use” note on them, along with his usual food combination to make him something gourmet~! He really liked it, from what I could tell.” 

Rei smiled. “Though it was safer with us, he kept trying to find his way to your dorm room. If I had to guess, he must have simply wandered too far in his excitement at the fresh winter snow, but he made some truly valiant attempts to get away from us to find you.” 

“Heh, good boy.” Koga grinned at his dog. He knew he would never purposefully run away from him. “... Fine. You two are forgiven. If anything like this ever happens again though, you both are fuckin’ dead, hear me?”

“Yes, Wan-chan~” 

“Understood~” 

“Good. Adonis, let’s go.” As Koga turned to leave, Adonis bowed in departure to their seniors. 

They walked to the elevator in comfortable silence. Leon had fallen back asleep, face pressed safely into the side of Koga’s neck. Once in the elevator that would take them back down to the dorm levels, Adonis broke the silence. “Oogami… I still feel bad about you having lost Leon-san. Seeing you reunited with him has made me even more aware of the damage I have caused, so I must offer my help with bathing him, if you will let me.”

If getting close with Adonis has taught him anything, it's Adonis’ tells when he's not being entirely forward with his feelings. Adonis was shy, but never closed off. Right now, his body language was almost anxious; arms crossed and looking downwards. If Koga had to guess, he didn’t truly still feel bad about being the cause for Leon’s brief disappearance. 

Koga’s eyes softened. “If you just wanted to spend more time with him, you coulda just said so.” 

“I apologize.”

“Didn’t mean it in a bad way. ‘Course you can come help me… If you wanna…” 

Adonis smiled at him. “I’d like that very much.” 

[calunasteria]

please, xanny. | sanzu haruchiyo

"𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙢𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚."

- ever wonder how love will feel like if its with sanzu haruchiyo?

current word count: 2.3k

tw (throughout the series): mentions of drug use and abuse, manipulation (gaslighting) and toxic relationships, mentions of blood, death, and murder, rape (attempt), use of deadly weapons, slight nsfw (??) - kindly tell me if i missed one. thank you.

date started: 07/29/21 (wattpad) | 07/31/21 (tumblr)

date ended: -

02 ! please, xanny.

i still dont know sanzu's background/backstory so this might be inaccurate but i'll try to edit this out once i'm done with the story and once their backstory is out (akashi siblings).

note: not proofread

sanzu was never the type to associate and talk his feelings, emotions, and ideas out loud, not unless if it became too much for him to handle. he was never the type to play hero for someone he barely knows because his heart and mind can only let few people in. once he made up his mind about something, or fixated his loyalty for someone, it can never ever waver.

so for him to do such actions to help this girl infront of him, with tear stained face, ruined polo shirt, and ripped cardigan, under the hazy moonlight, with crisp consternation in the air - was definitely something he wouldn't do on normal occasions.

he doesn't know, his body, and his will just shifted and had a strong urge to help when he heard a familiar yet hoarse voice crying for help, when its literally 3 in the morning in a deserted area.

he and kasumi never shared a conversation before the incident, yet he always admired the way she carries herself with confidence, while her eyes says otherwise, for her ebony orbs were almost dead with dwindling light and maybe that's the reason why he, sanzu haruchiyo is somehow interested in her, inconspicuously.

_

bright, gleaming rays of the golden sun that passed through the transparent glass window woke kasumi up as it was another day, another day to deal with numerous shits with monotonous routines. but this time, she has an objective to go talk to someone. she has something to look forward to for today.

but was completely shut down when she can't get ahold of the man she was trying to find and talk to. he wasn't at his classroom. he didn't attend his classes either - he wasn't at the school.

why? did i do something wrong? kasumi cogitated. she was hopeful to bring him his jacket back and to formally say her thank you to him, but he wasn't even around. and after a few hours of thinking where he might be and why back and forth, she came to a conclusion that maybe he needs to do something else or that something came up that's why he was absent - but as another day goes by, she never saw sanzu haruchiyo again.

he was avoiding her. and she doesn't know what to feel. she was conflicted and amused because how can he avoid her when they literally study in the same school?

"if he doesn't wanna show himself to me, then fine. all i want to do was to say thank you." she sighed as she walked to their house. booming voices and gut wrenching sobs was heard inside, that caught kasumi's attention making her rush towards their front door, frantically opening the doorknob to see what was happening.

-

"man, she's still not here huh." kaoru pouted as she sat down on their usual place, but the only difference is that kasumi is not present. and its been days since kasumi stopped going to school and attending her part time jobs- and sanzu knows that something was definitely up. although he can't find any information about kasumi's whereabouts and he was somewhat frustrated so he decided to go on a local bar to drink something when he saw a familiar figure, face lying down on a table, multiple empty alcohol bottles found near her.

what the fuck is she doing here, haruchiyo pondered as he rushed towards the unconscious girl. "hey. wake up." he shook kasumi's shoulder making the girl grumble and squint her eyes towards the person who woke her up. her head was wobbly, and her vision was kinda blurry but she recognised the scent that was bewitching her system at that moment.

"sanzu!" she beamed, lifting her head up to see the man before her, eyebrows furrowing as he can now see her upclose - busted lips and eyebrows and an evident chestnut color with a hint of purple and blue bruise across her face. and he felt that again. he felt this urgency back then when he helped her on that night and here he is ushering and helping kasumi out to stand up, head empty just him following what his system is doing.

"stand up. can you walk?" he asked as he tried to hold kasumi up, her eyes unfocused and somewhat lost. "yep!" she chimed in trying to steady her movements as she was now aware that the person she was trying to find last week was now here in front of her.

"really?" sanzu lifted one of his eyebrows, as kasumi tried to shoo away his arms that was supporting her weight to keep her from falling down. "yes, now let me go." and sanzu did, making kasumi almost stumble down as her vision is still swirling, but sanzu caught her waist gracefully before she fell down.

"hold my hand, kasumi, or i'll carry you outside. you choose." sanzu offered and kasumi noticed the genuine concern hinted on his stern voice.

she took his hand all while sanzu swiftly intertwined their hands together, holding her closely, enough for her to feel his warmth that soothed her overflowing emotions these past few days.

he opened the door's car and guided her inside, setting her down carefully as he walked towards the driver's seat to go start the car.

"wait, where are we going? why did i followed you here?" kasumi blinked earning a small scoff from the man beside her.

"why don't you ask your alcohol intoxicated system, nakashima-san?" he was definitely grinning, but kasumi was too tired to argue and her head was wobbling around as if she's swimming in a tide pool.

"were sobering you up." was the last thing she heard from sanzu before car engine started and the scenery before her starts fading away into illuminated lights.

-

the car came to a halt breaking the deep reverie kasumi was in, and there she noticed that they were infront of a small coffee shop with a very people in, since its already midnight. "were here," sanzu spoke softly, as he grab another jacket on the backseat tossing it to kasumi who's still processing the things that are happening.

as she stepped out of the car, she was greeted by a sharp, cool, wintry breeze that hit her face gently. her vision is still whirling and she still feels lightheaded because of all the drinks she had but she's in a better state now than she was earlier.

the coffee shop was decorated with retro styled lightbulbs that hanged on wooden ceilings, walls with floating shelves that have books and two and tiny succulents, vintage designed portraits, landscapes, and paintings and the ambience tasted like vanilla and sleepless nights as the coffee's aroma permeated their sensation.

"what do you want to order?" sanzu asked, hands inside his pocket, eyes scanning the menu on the screen at the counter, still wearing his face mask.

"just hot chocolate." kasumi replied, as she fumbled with her wallet handing money to sanzu that just walked past her, quickly muttering her to just sit down and wait for him.

kasumi just stared at sanzu while she waited for him who was now at the counter, ordering and it was not long after he came back with a paper bag and hot chocolate on both his hands.

the paper bag contains a box of chocolate cookies that is freshly baked. "who's this for?" she asked, eyebrows raising at sanzu all while he just blankly stared at her.

"for you." he replied nonchalantly as he went outside the coffee shop, kasumi trailing behind him with so many questions pivoting in her head.

"but i only ordered hot choco? and here's the money. how much is the cookies though?" she protested, trying to keep up with his pace and she noticed that sanzu walked pass his car that was parked a few meters from the coffee shop.

"hey, where are you going? kasumi stomped her foot and sighed loudly because sanzu was ignoring all her questions and she doesn't even know where this man is going.

"sanzu haruchiyo!" she called out, still dizzy and frustrated because of how he ignores all her protests and actions and it was as if sanzu snapped out of his train of thoughts after he heard kasumi yell out his name, he then turned around to see her face tainted with color of crimson red, eyebrows furrowed, and a slight pout on her mouth.

"i'm sorry. just follow me, and you'll see." he went back to her with a few steps, taking the paperbag in her hand so she can drink her beverage while he walks towards the nearby beach. kasumi just followed silently, saving all her questions for later. the walk they shared was quiet yet comfortable even though the wind was all they can hear, and some car or vehicles driving past them.

once they reached their destination, kasumi's hot chocolate drink was long gone and the scenery before her got her awestruck and her breath was taken away.

there was no one on the beach except for them, the sound of the waves crashing was a melody in their ears, and the breeze that blew from the horizon tasted like salt and tranquillity. the sky was painted with dwindling gray, the darkest navy blue, and black ink, with the stars, constellations and crescent moon that adorned the cosmos.

they momentarily locked eyes before kasumi went ahead and ran towards the shore, the sweet and gilded sand soaked her feet was rough, yet the waves was gentle and caring.

everything was so beautiful.

she was beautiful, haruchiyo thought. as her raven hair rode through the wind current and her soft facial features was highlighted by the dim illumination of the moon.

kasumi was playing in the sand when she sat down and admired the sky's reflection on the ocean and it was not long after sanzu sat down too, his zircon gem colored eyes glimmering like the stars that hanged on the night sky. its a shame why he still has his face mask on though.

"thank you, sanzu. for everything," she smiled as she looked at him with adoration, their eyes locked with each other, both orbs filled with unsaid emotions, "but why? why are you being so kind to me? when you barely even know me?"

sanzu just stared at her, unable to answer.

because he himself doesn't even know the answer. why? why did he help her and why does he keep on involving himself with her?

"i don't know." he whispered, words getting lost within the soft breeze blowing from the horizon. "but how about you?" he spoke, as he look towards kasumi who's intently looking at him.

"what do you mean? i didn't do anything much." she replied, her heart getting heavier as the moment passes, being in that place now reminds her of the past she can never bring back.

"you have a bruise on your face. you have a busted lip. you weren't attending school and your part time jobs too. we came here so that you can atleast let go of all your problems." sanzu blurted out, making kasumi turn her head towards sanzu, eyes blinking with amusement while a soft chuckle escaped her lips, stretching it into a wide grin.

sanzu looked confused at her reaction, "no, its just that, you literally said a whole paragraph there, i was shocked. you never said anything more than 10 or more words." she explained, as she lay down on the sand, staring at the stars.

"its just, everything is so shitty. i just found out that my father cheated on my ill and sick mom and he raised his hand at her, and that everytime he'd go out he'll just go whoring around with his bitch downtown. and when i stood up for my mom? he beat me up too. god, when the fuck did it all went wrong?" kasumi ranted, tears falling down her eyes non stop as she let out everything that's been hunting her these past few days all while sanzu just listened intently, his heart sinking slowly in behalf of what kasumi had vented.

"there's no such thing as a perfect family, but that doesn't justify what your father did to you." he muttered, and kasumi sat up, wiping away her tears.

"say, sanzu-"

"haruchiyo." he corrected, voice unwavering.

kasumi was astonished. man, he was definitely full of surprises and as the moment they both share together, stretches on, she felt more and more comfortable with his presence. "haruchiyo, can you remove your mask, please?" she asked, and sanzu was taken aback by her request and he doesn't want to remove it yet his hands moved on his own.

why?

is it normal to feel so fucking connected to a person who doesn't even know you before what happened? to feel so comfortable to someone who barely knows you? to feel so secured with someone whom you only shared a few words and moments with?

he doesn't know.

he doesn't know anymore.

his long, slender, and veiny hands moved towards his face mask and finally removed them.

he thought that she might find it unpleasant, and hideous, just like what other people think, so he just hang his head low but then he felt her warm hands lift his chin up, there he saw her with genuine, fond smile, eyes full of affection.

and oh how sanzu fell in love that moment.

but of course he's not gonna admit it.

he just thinks that its the alcohol with her. yeah. she's still drunk, probably. the male mused, trying to convince himself.

both of them talked and stared at the stars for a long time before kasumi fell asleep. but then after that night, the girl disappeared. she never went to school ever again, nor to her part time jobs.

it was as if what happened that night was a dream.

[dearlazerbunny]

If/When/Then

Pairings: Kyoya Ootori x Reader

Genre/Ratings: Five Times trope; G, mentions of severe anxiety

Words: 4200

Summary: Or, five times Kyoya didn’t kiss you (and the one time he did)

WARNING: the last bit gets a little angsty

One

“Kyoya. I swear to god. Can we please just-” you rub your eyes exhaustedly, trying to get the harsh blue glow of your laptop out from under your eyelids- “take a break? Or better yet, call it a night?”

The boy sitting across from you on the sofa glances up, his work reflected in his glasses. “How many words do you have?”

“Kyoyaaaaaaaa-”

“Y/N. How many words?” His tone is partially amused but mostly paternal, like he’s asking a small child how many candies they snuck before dinner. If you weren’t so brain dead it’d piss you off, but as it is you’re mostly just petulant.

“Um… three thousand and… something?”

A slender finger pushes his glasses further up his nose. “And the minimum word count is…?”

“You damn well know,” you mumble, before letting your head drop into your hands. One of your elbows is resting on your keyboard, leaving a long trail of jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjs across your half-finished essay.

“What was that?” A socked foot aims a kick at his shin, but your aim goes wide and he dodges it easily. “I believe the answer is six thousand.”

You give a long, heartfelt groan.

Kyoya sighs. He can easily knock out an essay in under an hour, while you require a little more effort- and a lot more bribery. Even if English is one of your best subjects, he knows sitting here for the past few hours laboring over a boring political comparison has to be dragging on you. And he’s been too caught up in his own work to even try to keep your spirits up- something he’s now regretting, seeing the usual sparkle in your eye dull to something uncharacteristically quiet.

“Here.” He reaches over the edge of his perch and feels for the basket of blankets he knows will be sitting there- his sister has a fondness for being wrapped in a minimum of three layers at all times. Carefully, as so not to disturb his own precious computer, he reaches over and drapes a loose-knit woolen beauty over your lap. He even takes a second to tuck the ends over your toes. You watch, fascinated, so used to his fingers tapping out mile-a-minute documents in a harsh staccato that this moment of softness seems unreal. Maybe you’ve already fallen asleep and are dreaming, or it’s a particularly nice sort of 2AM hallucination. Kyoya notices you staring- of course he does, he notices far too much about you nowadays to try and convince himself he only values you as a friend- and very pointedly looks anywhere but your gaze. He’s not sure he could look away if he caught your eye now, hazy with sleep and reflecting starlight from the nearby open window. “Better?”

“Um- yeah.” You settle a little further into the cushions. “Thanks.”

He nods, not trusting himself to speak.

Of course, when he glances over at you not ten minutes later, you’re fast asleep, laptop precariously close to toppling to the floor. He rescues it and saves your work before shutting it down. There’s a slight smile on your face as you dream, and the overwhelming urge to lean over and press a kiss to your forehead makes Kyoya stop still.

His fixation on you has grown over the past few months, that much is clear, but he hadn’t predicted them to progress this quickly this fast. He has his grades to maintain, a club to run, and a company to prepare for. He shouldn’t have time for silly distractions, like categorizing exactly how peaceful you look curled up next to him, or reaching out and brushing a piece of hair out of your eyes.

He shouldn’t. And yet, he does- he always will, for you.

Two

“Remind me again who said this was a good idea?” You squint your eyes as you turn your face towards the sky, which is lit by a brilliant sun. The Host Club is hosting on location this time- a beautiful stretch of beach peppered by towels, umbrellas, waiters offering fruity drinks, and a couple hundred squealing girls. You know. Relaxing. “I think I might like to punch them.”

“You might talk to Mori about a healthy and productive way to manage your rampant anger issues.” You snort and roll your eyes, which in turn makes the corner of Kyoya’s mouth tick up. He’s under an umbrella nearby, neatly marking down figures on his notepad. “Besides, I thought you liked the water.”

“I do, when it’s not so…” you gesture to the gaggle of twenty or so girls nearby, all primping and twisting in their bikinis to hopefully catch the eye of their favorite host- “crowded.”

“Ah.” He can sympathize with that. The smell of salt and brine takes him back to childhood, with the two of you making castles in the sand and pestering the other with seashell-finding competitions. Beach days were lazy days when your parents couldn’t be bothered to have either of you in the house, but to the two of you they were worth their weight in gold. Today, as he watches you stretch into the heat, his childhood friend is overshone by the you of here and now. You’re gorgeous in a simple one piece more stunning than any of the frills the other guests are wearing and hair in a sea-woven braid dangling down your back. Likewise, the Kyoya of here and now is having some thoughts that his five-year-old self have would never even dreamt of.

“I’m going swimming. If I don’t come back in an hour, tell Tamaki it’s his fault for dragging us all out here.”

“Hm? Oh,” Kyoya clears his throat. “Yes, of course.”

You throw him a glance- is he acting strangely? You can’t quite tell; it might just be the heat- before jogging off towards the waves, well away from the party as a whole.

He watches you go, and thinks about going with you, before a guest trills his name and his attention is dragged back to where he doesn’t want it to be.

At the end of the day, the crowd has left, and the club gets a precious hour or so of pink sky and calm surf to themselves. Hikaru, Kaoru, and Haruhi are searching the shoreline for shells and sand dollars; Mori is hauling damp sand for Honey’s massive sand castle; and Tamaki surveys all of them like a proud father. You and Kyoya are sitting a little away, just close enough to the water to let it kiss your toes. “This is more what I remember,” you murmur, a smile on your face, and Kyoya digs his fingers into the sand so they don’t accidentally wind their way around yours like they want to.

“Oh, here.” You pluck your friend’s glasses from his face and use the towel draped loosely over your shoulders to wipe the lenses. When you hand them back, Kyoya has a bit of a stunned expression on his face, making you giggle. “Sorry. They had salt on them. Seemed like it would annoy you.”

“Indeed,” is what he says, willing his tone to be nonchalant or at least neutral. What he wants to say is, do you remember when we were eleven, and you tried the same thing? You ended up getting knocked over by a wave and lost them in the ocean. I was so mad at you, but I still had to hold your hand on the way home so I wouldn’t fall. You didn’t let me trip. Not once.

If he were a braver, bolder, better person, he’d kiss you right now, and see how you taste like salt and sunshine and memories. But he isn’t, so he doesn’t- he lets the Hitachiin twins, who are sneaking up behind you, douse you in water instead. He lets you shriek at them and take chase, threatening to drown them both, breaking the moment and leaving him sitting by the sea alone to remember what was and what might be.

Three

It’s safe to assume that Valentine’s Day is never a dull affair in Music Room 3.  

Everything is decorated with lace and delicate crystal trimmings; the roses are even more bountiful and in every color the human eye can see. The attire is more formal than usual, the cheeks rosier and the lips pinker, and it tends to be the one day when the hosts receive more than give.

Each of their tables is piled high with gifts, cards, baked goods swirled with elaborate frostings. Even though Tamaki keeps insisting that the girls should be the ones receiving sweet nothings, not the hosts, you can tell he’s more than pleased by the growing mound of sentiments slowly dwarfing the other boys’. As it should be, Kyoya supposes.

Honey’s haul is mostly sweets, naturally, and this year Mori also has a surprising armload- apparently one of the only times his admirers hear him speak is when he says ‘thank you’, leading to multiple gifts just so they can hear his voice more than once. Hikaru and Kaoru’s combined mountain looks more like a dragon’s treasure horde than a pile of presents. Haruhi adamantly refused everything until one guest brought her a particularly excellent platter of fish, based on the way she’s been sitting in the corner with her cheeks stuffed for the last twenty minutes.

Kyoya notes all of this with a vague smile, adjusting his calculations and trajectories for the next few months to match the turnout. Valentine’s Day is one holiday he can generally sit out. Sure, there’s a small stack of cards and remember-me’s on the sofa next to him, but his persona as the analytical and aloof host tends to leave him further down in the ranks than the other boys. Which is just fine with him, if he’s being honest- he has manners, but being constantly charming is tiring at best and egregiously aggravating at worst.

“Mother Dearest, it appears you have another card to add to your beautiful collection!” Tamaki flounces over in his wine-colored suit, at least thirty guests in pursuit. “It doesn’t come with a giver, unfortunately- oh! Perhaps you have a secret admireeeeeer!” He wiggles his fingers excitedly and hands over the card with a flourish. “How exciting! A mystery for Valentine’s Day!” His groupies sigh and fan their faces, overcome with the romance and intrigue of it all.

“Thank you, Tamaki,” Kyoya says drily, nimbly plucking the proffered gift from the boy’s fingers. “Please, don’t ignore your guests on my account.”

“I would never! Each and every one of my princesses mean the world to me!” As he and his followers fade back to the other side of the room, Kyoya props his glasses back up on his nose and curiously slides his thumb under the flap of the envelope. It’s a plain white paper, not embellished with hearts or gemstones or ribbon or any of the other garish decorations usually attached to such a thing. The card is similarly simplistic, with only a pencil-sketched heart on the outside and a greeting that reads, “To My Favorite Host.”

Interesting. Perhaps there’s a mystery here after all. He flips it open, not sure what to expect- and immediately has to keep himself from laughing outright. Inside is a crude sketch of two stick figures- one has comically large glasses drawn on its blank face to helpfully distinguish itself as the Kyoya of the pair- and note in chicken scratch: You’re such an asshole, but I guess I love you anyways.

Only one person could be responsible for such a thing. After all, you were never renowned for your artistic talents.  

…

“I got your… note.”

You don’t look up from the book you’re paging through out in the courtyard underneath a spectacular old tree. The leaves frame you beautifully against the afternoon sky. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Mmm. I found the art particularly museum worthy.”

Now you smile a bit. “Well, you’re a museum worthy sorta guy.”

“Favorite host is quite the compliment.” He’s getting dangerously close to… something; toeing a line he hasn’t touched before, and it’s making his heart race.

“Don’t get too cocky. Mori’s still got like, an eight-pack.”

Kyoya sits beside you, careful to leave several tree roots between you and him. “Why a valentine? I see you every day; you could have just told me yourself.”

“I dunno.” He fixes you with a look, one that says sure, I believe you. You give a halfhearted shrug, shoulder almost brushing Kyoya’s. “I went by the music room. Everyone else had, like, mountains of stuff and I just… felt like you were under-appreciated, that’s all.”

“I see.” A beat passes with nothing but the wind ruffling your hair. “That’s… kind of you.”

Now you do close the gap between the two of you, nudging your knee against his. “You’re welcome, asshole.”

Four

Your laugh, Kyoya thinks, is the best thing he’s ever heard.

You’re draped over the edge of his bed, head towards the floor, giggling wildly to yourself as you mutter an inside joke that only make sense to you. Your cheeks are flushed, and the bottle of alcohol you snuck into Kyoya’s room is sitting a few feet away, half full. He’s had a few sips, but he isn’t much for relinquishing his mental faculties so easily. It’s tempting, though, what with you so lazily tapping his shoulder or nudging his side to get his attention- it’d be so easy to demolish all his carefully crafted walls and drown in you.

But someone has to be the responsible one- and if he’s honest with himself, the thought of you or he regretting what happened in the dead of night come light of day makes him sick to his stomach. So he sits primly against his headboard, the computer on his lap a boulder pinning him to his spot, only glancing at you every so often to make sure you haven’t tumbled off the bed completely, despite your absolutely intoxicating mood coaxing him closer and closer to throwing caution to the wind.

“-and you’re just… you’re just a good person,” you continue, meandering through your thoughts. “Like, seriously. Why do you have to be so amazing. It’s so goddamn annoying.”

He desperately hopes you’re too out of it to notice the reddening of his own cheeks. “I am hardly what anyone would call ‘good.’”

“Lies! Lies. And. Slander.” You emphasize every word with a poke to various parts of his body- his big toe, his elbow, his knee. “Like- okay. What are you working on right now?”

In actuality he’s browsing through the Ootori Group’s latest research and development journals, evaluating their recent findings and sifting the unimportant from the extraordinary. But you’re most likely far too gone to actually understand any of that, so instead he just generalizes: “refining new data from the company.”

“Yeah! You wanna be a fucking doctor, that’s like- that’s amazing!”

Kyoya quirks an eyebrow. “You do realize my entire family is in the medical profession.”

“No, your entire family throws their money at the medical profession.” You wave a finger in the air like a drunk scientist hypothesizing their theories. “There’s a difference.”

“I’ll take your word for it.”

“No, listen you jerk!” You haul yourself up and place yourself face-to-face with your best friend, close enough that Kyoya can see the intensity in your eyes. “It’s one thing to pay for shit, it’s another to actually be in the room when someone is having a heart attack and wanting to save their life. You care. More than anyone I know. And that makes you amazing.” You let out a rush of air, the sudden verve in your words having worn you out. “I dunno. Maybe that doesn’t make any sense. Whatever. I’m gonna lay down.” You curl up next to his knee and half heartedly arrange a blanket around your legs before falling asleep.

Meanwhile, Kyoya’s gaze has never left your face. The words may have been spoken by a loose tongue, but anyone could hear the honesty in your voice and see the passion in your eyes. You really think that much of him? Or rather, could you possibly think as much of him as he does of you?

He wishes he could shake you awake and ask you to elaborate. He wishes he could tell you that if he’s amazing, you’re a supernova. He wishes he could get drunk and fall asleep next to you while pressing lazy kisses anywhere he can reach.

His reaches for the bottle, but his fingers barely brush the glass before changing course and clicking off the lamp instead.

Five

God, I hate these things, you think to yourself as you tug on the straps of your dress. You’re not quite sure if you’re referring to the pins sticking your scalp, the uncomfortable formal gown you’re squeezed into, or the entire event in general- actually, it’s most likely all of the above. As much as you love Kyoya and the rest of the boys, you adamantly refuse to attend any of their grand balls. You’re not a fussy person, so the general pompous air of the things always gives you a headache, and you hate wearing dresses anyways. But today you zipped yourself into a slinky black sheath number that’s long enough to hide tennis shoes under the hem, forced your hair into something presentable, and even threw on a little mascara.

Because of Kyoya.

Kyoya, who mentioned in passing that this was the best celebration he’d ever planned, and seemed extremely proud of it to boot. Kyoya, who always grumbles as he slips on his suit, wishing he could spend the night with his charts and figures instead. Kyoya, who always returns to school the next day more stressed than usual, a tight smile plastered on his face as he fends off hordes of fangirls.

The things you do for this boy.

It’s immediately clear when you arrive that you stand out in your ebony gown, a wisp of smoke and night sky amongst a sea of flouncy pastels. Luckily, each of the boys steps up to greet you- a sweet hug from Honey, carefully avoiding wrinkling your dress; good natured teasing from the twins; a particularly extravagant complimentary poem from Tamaki. Eventually you meet Haruhi at the table laden with food, grateful for someone down to earth to laugh with.

After an hour, you’re almost convinced Kyoya finally worked up the nerve to skip the event altogether when there’s a delicate gap on your shoulder. “Would you care for a dance?”

“No,” you say, because that’s what you always say when Kyoya asks you to do something (even if he knows you’ll do it anyways). He smiles and takes your elbow, ignoring the whispers and glares from the other guests- who is she? What makes her so special? Everything, he wishes he could tell them. So many things he it would take him years to count them all.

“I thought you hated these things,” he says when you’re safely tucked in his arms on the dance floor. The fabric of your dress shimmers softly, as though marking you as something uniquely precious amongst all the other attendees.

“I do,” you reply. You’re slowly taking his lead, following the waltz music played by a six-piece orchestra. “But I think you hate them more, so I figured if anything I could help put you out of your misery.”

“Hm. Poisoned boutonnière, perhaps?”

“I was thinking more along the lines of hiding up in the rafters with a blowdart gun.”

Kyoya chuckles, sweeping you along. You’re not a bad dancer, all things considered. “I appreciate the thoughtfulness, though that might be difficult given your choice of attire.”

You grin at him playfully, raising your hem up just enough so he can see your battered old sneakers on your feet. “Nah, I always come prepared.”

It’s such an odd juxtaposition- this beautiful girl in the sinful dress accessorizing with sharpie-covered shoes that are peeling rubber- he can’t help but laugh, a real laugh, perhaps the first one he’s given since the night began. Even out of your element, you still maintain something that is so quintessentially you. He wishes he could tell you how beautiful you look. He wishes he could nudge your sneaker with his dress shoe in a secret invitation to follow him somewhere quiet, to steal small fleeting moments that would make the whole night worth its while.

He thinks about this every time you scuff your feet, hearing the slight squeak of rubber against the polished tile floor.

And the beginning…

“Stop it, Kyoya,” you grit out through a clenched jaw, using all your strength to unfold your friend’s fingers from his bloody palms. His fingernails have dug so far into the skin they’ve left bright red crescent moons dotting his hands. You focus on those, trying to soothe the sting with the fabric of your shirt, because if you look at his face and the tears crawling down his cheeks you’ll start crying too, and that’s not what either of you need right now. “Just talk to me. Please.”

No response. He’s trembling as though there’s a blizzard only he can feel, so you sit him on your bed and wrap him in every blanket you have, leaving his hands free so he can clutch at yours like a lifeline. “Just focus on me, okay? Everything is fine.” You try to keep your voice steady as you murmur anything reassuring you can think of, trying to coax life back into his eyes. You knew his anxiety had gotten worse, but this… this is the most catastrophic yet. You sit cross legged in front of him, so close your knees brush his, and hold onto his fingers for dear life. “Keep breathing. I’m here. It’s all okay.” Please please please come back to me. Come on, Kyoya. Don’t let the demons win.

Slowly, piece by piece, something in him seems to uncoil. His grip lessens just a little, and his breathing becomes audible enough to reassure you he’s still with you. Gently, you put a hand to his forehead, then cheek, testing his temperature. “Hey. You with me?”

Something like a sob escapes his lips, thin and heartbroken. Your own shatters along with it. In an instant you have him in a hug, arms as tight around him as you can possibly manage. Kyoya tucks his head into the crook of your neck, practically collapsing on top of you until you aren’t sure where he stops and you start. He says your name over and over and over again, a hymn only he can hear. You press your lips to his temple just to reassure yourself he hasn’t left you and let him cry; only able to offer comfort in presence and spirit. “Thank you,” he murmurs against your skin, and you hold him tighter.

“I’m always here. You know that.”

He sniffs and wipes away a tear with the heel of his hand, wincing when the salt burns his cuts. “Idiotic. I apologize for… all of this.”

“Stop,” you say firmly. You bring his eyes up to meet yours, so he can see the fire in your gaze. “You have nothing to apologize for. Ever. Okay?”

Kyoya stares back at you, feeling small and worthless against the monsters in his own brain. Every second spent with you banishes them a little farther back into his mind, loosening the vises wrapping his chest and letting him breathe a little easier. It has almost consumed him today, so he ran to the only safe place he knows-  you. And you had held him and wiped his tears and not for a single second judged him for falling apart.

It occurs to him you are one of the few people on earth who see him for who he truly is, and will still hold his hands anyways.

Ever so gently, he presses his lips to yours- soft, tentative, and barely there. It’s a thank you, and offering, and a question all at once. It’s not the grand romantic gestures he’s planned late at night, wanting to sweep you off your feet in a shower of confidence and joy, or even really a conscious decision- it’s instinct, want, and something like bittersweet love.

You blink at him, eyes wide. “Kyoya… I-”

He stills. “I’m sorry.”

You shake your head, bringing a hand up to press your fingers against his cheekbone. “Don’t ever be sorry,” you say again, and then you kiss him back. You kiss him like it’s all you’ve ever wanted to do; like you’re saying to him what took you so long, you idiot?

He doesn’t know. But he won’t ever make that mistake again. He’ll kiss you every day for as long as he lives to make up for all that lost time, all those late nights and seaside musings and dances with a hand on the small of your back.

When the sun rises, it illuminates a world of a thousand new possibilities.

[falling-pages]

I’m just protective: Part 2/2

Hikaru x reader, with a little bit of Kaoru

Hey y’all, back again with part 2. Thanks for all the love and support Part 1 received! If you’re new to this blog, you can read Part 1 here. Same warning about Kaoru still stands!

When you wake up, the world has shifted into something magical. White sunlight streams through the curtains onto the carpet. The bed feels warm, and the feelings of peace and security wrap around you like a hug. Checking your clock, you see you have ten more minutes until your alarm goes off. But you don’t want to go back to sleep, not when you feel as good as you do right now. You haven’t had such good rest in a long time.

As you stretch, the events from last night hit your brain like a baseball, shorting the drowsy happiness you woke up with. The fighting, the yelling, Hikaru stuck in a toilet? You let out a laugh at the memory.

Your anger has worn off, like you knew it would, but the hunger hasn’t. If you stood any chance of passing this med school entrance exam, you needed to eat. The smell of pancakes enters your room, and your mouth waters at the thought of the fluffy golden treats.

Hikaru must have escaped the trap, then, if he was cooking. Either that or you had the world’s most polite burglar. 

You rise completely, scrunching your toes into the carpet. You needed to make up with him. He’s not perfect, but he is the man you love. He’s forgiven your mistakes, too.

Throwing on one of his strewn sweatshirts and a pair of jeans, you leave the bedroom and waltz into the dining room, ready to apologize, and see him pouring juice into mugs. You pause for a moment as you watch him. Something wasn’t right: there’s a splint on his left hand, a splint not there last night.

“Oh, (Y/N)!” he turns and speaks your name with a smile, and you sigh in relief. It’s Kaoru.

You smile shyly. “Hi, Kaoru.” You slide into a chair, staring at the place settings. Your better plates sit on nice cloth placemats, and your mom’s porcelain angel-shaped salt shakers guard a massive bowl of mixed fruit. A fresh bouquet of daisies, still dripping with morning dew, command attention at the center of the table. With the glistening sun shining a beam onto the table, the place setting looks straight out of a rom-com.

Then your eyes land on the pancakes. Chocolate chip, peanut butter and butterscotch with a tablet of butter sitting atop each group pile, begging to be devoured.

As much as you just want to tear them to shreds with your teeth, your eyes flick up to Kaoru, who is watching you intently. He’s wearing an odd expression, somewhere between amusement and disappointment. His mouth is curved into a frown, but his eyes sparkle with mirth.

“What is it?” you ask him. 

He lets out his breath, a small whistle coming out with it. “He told me about the fight,” he says. You grimace, embarrassed. “Called me crying. Something about him stuck in a toilet and you yelling at him?”

Though the guilt pings your heart, you chuckle. “Yeah, that was stupid.”

Kaoru drops into the chair beside you, one empty of a place setting. “No, (Y/N), I wanted to tell you I understand.”

“Oh.”

He stares at the floor and reaches for your hand, pouring all of his unspoken grief into your palm. There’s never been anything but companionship between you two, but you’ve both been a shelter the other can run to when a storm was wrecking their life. You cover his hand with your other one, softly squeezing it.

“I was at the party with him last night,” he admits. “He lied and said it was an old friend so you wouldn’t get mad at me.” When he lifts his head and sees your arched eyebrows, he whispers, “Are you?”

“Kaoru, of course not.” You put your hand on his shoulder and feel the weight lifting from it. “I was just scared.”

“I know, I know. I am too. That brother of mine is dense, you know.” He taps the side of his own temple. “Probably wouldn’t know danger if it smacked him in the face.” He stops, taking in a deep breath, and his eyes turn serious. “I live every day in fear that what happened to me might--” his voice catches, but he swallows and goes on. “Might happen to him or you or Aimi, and I couldn’t live with myself if it did.” 

Kaoru smacks a tear away from his cheek. He went through hell that night. Of course he’s going to watch out for you. “So you don’t have to worry if he goes somewhere without you,” he adds. “I drove him home last night. I’m watching out for him, too.”

You smile, feeling love flood your heart. The girlfriend and the twin brother--that’s quite a protection squad Hikaru had.

After a moment, Kaoru looks up and you exchange smiles. “So you’re not mad at him?”

“No, not anymore.” You stand up and step away from the table. “I need to find him to apologize.”

“Oh, good,” Kaoru says. “He was terrified he was going to lose you last night.”

“He will never lose me.”

Kaoru smirks as soon as you finish talking, but before you can ask him about it, you feel warm arms wrap around your waist from behind. A pair of lips gently kiss your cheek, and you reach your hand up to pass through Hikaru’s hair.

“Good morning,” he whispers.

Before you can say it back, Kaoru swings his lanyard into his pocket and reaches for you, giving your forehead a light kiss, before grabbing his brother from your arms and giving him a hug.

“Gotta run, I have some errands to take care of,” he says. “See ya later.”

You and Hikaru chorus your goodbyes as he leaves, shutting the front door behind him.

Now alone together, Hikaru twists you so that you’re facing each other, lightly keeping his arms around your waist in case you lied and actually want to attack him. His eyes lazily settle on yours, looking at you peacefully, eyelids half-shut. You return his look, feeling the tension mount between you.

“So, how long was Kaoru here?” You decide to break the silence.

Hikaru nods his head to the couch, where blankets and pillows lay in a twisted mess. “I called him last night. He helped me unstick my foot.”

You jerk your head to the dining table and in the direction of the kitchen. “Did he help you with this?”

“Nah, he just slept the whole morning.” 

You give him a little laugh, and he encourages it with a closed-lip smile, both of you suddenly shy. You’ve fought before, but it was never as savage or angry as last night. It was always about something stupid he did or how you spend too much time away from him, or even just little fights you would pick just to fight. But it has never been about his welfare or safety. You’ve never brought him to the brink of tears like that. You’ve never thought about breaking up from a fight before. You could never. Hikaru is your oxygen, your sunlight--without him, your life wouldn’t just be over, it would be dark.

As if reading your mind, he tilts your chin, staring at you from under his eyelashes. You feel the pain in every word he says. 

“I’m so sorry, (Y/N). I should have kept the promise. I hate that I worried you.”

You pet his hair, outlining his cheek with your finger, before returning your arms around his neck. “It’s alright, baby. I’m sorry, too. I shouldn’t have yelled at you.”

Hikaru nods, biting his lip. You knew you loved him, but these tranquil moments standing together, holding one another while your hearts beat exposed in each other’s hands--you could build a life out of these vulnerable moments.

“I just wanted to protect you,” you say, lowering your eyes to his neck. “I love you more than anything. I can’t lose--”

Hikaru gently whispers a “shhh” as you lean your head into his chest. His cotton shirt catches all of your tears, and you cling to him. You don’t need anger. He is your anchor now. 

“I know you want to protect me,” he says, trailing his fingers through your hair. “I love that. I love you.” He squeezes your hips and moves you flat against him, covering you with his body. He flexes his toned arms as he moves you, showing off all his gym training, and pushes you against his heart. You adjust your arms around his core, taking in every inch of him, poking the taut muscles of his back. “But let me protect you. I promise I can.”

You poke your head up and finally let him kiss you. You’re surprised by his restrained gentleness; with the way he was showing off his strength just a moment earlier, you thought he would be throwing you on the couch and having his way right now. Instead, he’s savoring you, showing you that he respects your vulnerability. Though the boy is extremely talented with his mouth, these calm, docile kisses soothe your soul in a totally different way.

He tasted like summer rain. You lead his lips in a dance of forgiveness, rubbing your hand down his chest while he strokes your face. You could live forever in this moment, these gentle touches and reassuring kisses--and then you realize that you do want to live in this forever. You want the rest of your life to feel like this moment.

He pulls away and you remember the delicious breakfast on the table, something he made just for you.

“You need to eat breakfast, baby,” he insists, holding your hand against his heart. “So you can do your best on your exam. Which you’re going to rock, by the way.”

Hikaru pulls out your chair for you and pushes you back then, only then letting go of your hand. He gives you a shy smile. You’ve unlocked a new part of him today, a part you haven’t seen in the whole year you’ve been dating. He’s sweet, sensitive. That Bad Wolf reputation left behind.

“I can’t believe you did this just for me,” you breathe.

“I love you,” he replies simply. 

And that’s all you’ll ever need.

[mintchocolateleaves]

//cough cough, misaki and kaito bromance

Okay for anyone wondering who tf Misaki is? He’s an OC in the WcDonald’s AU that @sup-poki and I share. Because the DCMK cast need more friends?! Well then. Here’s a small snip of the bromance.

-

The happy meal toys had gone missing.

Or rather, the box with the fish toys had mysteriously vanished without a trace, like a breath of wind after a storm. They’d arrived this morning, apparently, and now they were gone.

And Kaito, stood on the front floor watching his manager explain how their WcDonalds store was temporarily out of the small golden koi figures, knew that he was going to be one of the first to be asked about it.

The recent mermaid movie had been a hit with children, almost depressingly so, and as a form of advertisement, their store – as with all other branches – had decided to start selling toys for them. Including the fish.

He’d been working through the managerial shift change, so he’d been present before. Would have known whether the figures had arrived. That’s why he isn’t surprised when she finally turns to him, a bland expression on her face as she moves back towards them, her ‘customer smile’ quickly fading.

Miyoda Izumi, the manager responsible for night shifts, was about as dead on the inside as her eyes expressed – which was very.

“Kuroba-kun,” she says, pointing a finger in his direction, raising an eyebrow as he continues to lean on the counter beside where he’s operating one of the cash tills. Not that there’ll be many people coming through now, it’s too late. “You’ve been here a few hours longer – you’ve not seen those stupid toys, have you?”

Kaito shrugs.

“All I see are stupid toys,” Kaito says, “I’ve been stuck putting happy meals together for hours.”

“The koi fish ones?” Miyoda asks. Keeping his face neutral, continuing on with a bored expression, he presses his finger to the screen, playing with a non-existent order for something to do.

“I dunno,” he says, “I’ve not done stock today.”

“Well who was it?”

Another shrug. Realistically, Kaito doesn’t know, he’s been stuck working the tills all day. He’s not had a chance to head into the stock room. “Not had the chance to find out?”

“Misaki-kun,” Miyoda calls, grabbing the attention of their co-worker, where he’s pouring fries into the fryer, “you know who took stock today?”

Misaki Kaoru turns with a speed that is not urgent. Takes a moment to lower the bag of fries back into the cabinet and rolls his eyes. “Kiroshima, I think. Didn’t really care about jotting it down since it wasn’t my problem.”

Their manager clicks her tongue, and then, moving past them, decides to head towards the back, seeing if she can find someone who knows. Kaito watches Misaki for a moment, smirking as the other pushes his glasses up his nose, rolling out his arms.

“You’re such a shitty liar.” Kaito says.

“Whatever,” Misaki says. He glances around to the floor, sees no one glancing in their direction, and flicks one of the uncooked fries at Kaito. Kaito catches the potato in his hand, pulls a face. “It was believable enough.”

“Nope it was so easy to tell.”

“You’re just weirdly observant,” Misaki says. “Plus. You know the truth. Therefore, you’re biased on being able to tell.”

“Sounds fake but okay.”

Misaki raises an eyebrow. Turns away to scoop some fries into cardboard containers.

“You know,” Misaki says, his voice dull. “You’re totally right. I remember now. Looks like we’re selling some koi fish today after all.”

“You wouldn’t.”

“I hid them in the back for you Kuroba,” Misaki says, “because after the third time of watching you cringe at the toys, it stopped being funny. But I think I’m ready to watch a cringe compilation again.”

“You’re an asshole.” Kaito says.

He receives a dry laugh. “Sure am. Now shut up, or Miyoda’s going to magically know that those toys are buried beneath the buns.”

“Rude.”

Misaki grabs the fries, now cooked, and brings them from the fryer into the container beside it, salting them.

“I’m sorry,” he says although he sounds anything but, “who just called who an asshole? You’re the rude one.”

“You’re trying to use my weakness against me!” Kaito claims.

“Please, if this was me trying to use your weakness against you,” comes the dry response, “then I wouldn’t be using plastic koi fish.”

“Nah?”

“Go big or go home.” Misaki says. “I’d probably invite that mascot that stands outside the pet store to come inside and freak you out. He was wearing a carp costume today.”

Horror washes across Kaito’s face – he’s not even trying to hide it. There’s something about working a night shift that makes hiding your emotions less necessary. Even if he is Kaitou KID.

“That’s horrifying.”

More huffed out laughter. “Yeah, I thought you might hate it.”

“Who thinks that’s a good idea?” Kaito mutters.

“I do,” Misaki says. “But I think that’s probably just because you hate it so much.”

“Heathen.”

“Pretty much so,” Misaki says, “Yeah.”

[kaoru-takaida]

Valentione's Day Special Chapter

SIDE: TIUS MASON

*may contain Spoilers*

Tius sighs, looking at the outifit... He'd aided the Valentione group with ease. And using all the facts and info he knew of the candidates, vouched for Astrid. She'd been the most obvious choice in his mind and her reasoning for the man's request was sound. But this outfit... He wasn't so sure how he'd go about wearing it... He removes the cleanly pressed shirt and tosses it onto the bed.

He sighs. He looks over at the bed stand next to the bed. This was Hope, Kaoru, and Alisaie's house. He'd been away to Garlemald when they'd bought it. And apparently Hope and Kaoru had to actually get married in order to house Alisaie here. They did it of course for legal purposes. The ceremony was pretty private and Tius has always had a grain of salt when thinking of the situation.

This had been the year he had planned to...

Tius shakes his head, looking over at the Baron earrings on the bedstand, placed with the Baron Circlet. 2 months, huh? Time on the First and The Source was beginning to equal out again according to the Crystal Exarch. It's been fluctuating constantly, but it seems to only ever be speeding up on the Souce. Tius's calendar has been thrown off considerably due to his travel back and forth. Hopefully with the progress being made, the Scions can return home soon. "I wanna be there when that happens!" Kaoru had said, with such a determined look in her eyes. But that was right before the battle with Emet-Selch.

A good while ago... Tonite would be the Valentione's Day party that was insisted on being held. On the First so the Scions could enjoy it if they wanted. But considering how busy things have been on that star, it would be doubtful that some of them would make it. Tius sighs.

Deciding that being stuffed in this house was too painful, Tius elected to sort through the paperwork flooding Alphinaud's desk on his office. Unused for the most part, yet still active. Ready for Alphinaud when he returns. It was meant as a surprise birthday present for him that the girls threw together. But he'd ended up leaving for Garlemald before they could reveal it to him. And with that came the Call. Tius wipes sweat from his face, finishing his stacking papers and forms and letters.

He couldn't help his racing thoughts. (Dammit... why today of all days?)

Tius sits himself down next to the waters. The swimming area in the Lavendar Beds was empty except for him. The waters are generally too cold for normal people to swim in, though Tius knows a dip on the chilly water might knock him outta this funk. He shakes his head, removing the thought. He can't risk getting sick. Not when there's a load of work that needs to be done. The sounds of chimes and some sparkles shimmer over his right shoulder, and Feo Ul glimmers into view.

"My [strong sapling]!" They say. "Hope sent me to remind you that the party is tonight." They place their hands on their hips. "So you better not be late!" Tius nods.

"I'll be there."

Feo Ul tilts their head. "Laddy... Are you okay?" Feo Ul asks. They take a second and then sigh. They land gently on his shoulder. "Ah. The festivities are getting you down, aye?" Tius nods once. Feo Ul smiles. "She's still out there and out of reach. I won't stop looking for your [one true blossom]. Not for one second." Tius smiles.

He rubs his cheek against Feo Ul. "Thank you, my precious king..." Tius scowls slightly. "I got this. She stayed for me when I left her. It was far worse then for her. So this?" He smiles again to Feo Ul. "This is nothing..."

Feo Ul rubs against Tius's cheek now. "There ya go, sapling."

A delivery Moogle awaits Tius at the reception desk of the Pendants Inn. Tius's ears perk up. "Hello." He says as it flys over to him.

"Good morning, kupo!" It says. It reaches into the pouch, removing a small box and a pink envelope. "You have a package and a letter that's paired with it from Kaoru Takaida!" Tius chokes. The Moogle hands him the small box and the envelope. "Have a splendid day, kupo!" It flies away, leaving a dumbfounded Tius to stare at the items in his hands. In the Inn room, he sits on the bed and sighs. He opens the envelope and smiles. Her quick yet refined handwriting is there.

And the words written makes him smile. He looks down at the box, and slides the lid off. In it was a silver Circlet. One of Doman origin that had piqued Tius's interest. An old story of the Monkey King. Kaoru used to tell him about it. And this Circlet was definitely an exact replica.

One that makes him gasp. He excitedly slides it onto his head, and leaves the room with a big smile on his blushing face.

[ofthedarkestlight]

2日 - prompt #2: bargain

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast music rating: PG-13 for non-explicit sexual content/themes warnings: sexual assault vague spoilers for heavsnward and stormblood

Auguste rolls over with a groan. One by one his devices float back into his consciousness. 

It feels like his stomach is where his heart is, head in the clouds, nose buried in the pillow that retained the salty ocean scent of his lover, and hips far too sore to think of doing anything but sleeping the morning away with the man who was responsible for it. He glances over to catch Perci coming back in from the loo having finessed the need for underwear, manhood cheerfully on display with the suggestion he might be up for round two. The carefree smirk on his face causes Auguste`s heart to flip back into his chest cavity, using his stomach as a springboard. “If I make you breakfast, will you come back to bed?” Auguste murmurs into the frigid morning air, reaching across the sheets for Perci`s hand. He prefers to make the subject ‘the bed’ rather than ‘me’ where it truly belonged. Perci was wont to go wherever he liked after their pleasurable nights, but lately, Auguste was tripping over goodbyes and Perci was running out of excuses to stay. His emerald eyes glitter with his plea, and the way he bites his bottom lip whenever he really wants something causes Perci to surrender himself wholeheartedly. He falls back into bed, crawling on top of Auguste as he tried to hide a smile against his cheek. “No need.” He answers honestly, lacing their fingers together. “I wasn`t planning on leaving anyway.”

--

The sound of chopping is so seamless it resembles the hum of a magitek engine. Auguste works at the slices of carrot over the low hum of a simmering stove. With a sprinkle of salt and a little bit of oil, Auguste glides through the kitchen humming a cheerful tune, bending low to find another frying pan under the counter. He is blissfully unaware of a figure in the doorway wiping the sweat from his brow, wiping the dirt from his boots, laying his pickaxe to the side. Perci begins to make his way downstairs before stopping cold, a smile slowly blooming as he observes such a beautiful display of domestic bliss. The sudden hand on Auguste`s behind makes him yelp, but he had felt this enough times before not to reel up in shock (and have the back of his head make best friends with the bottom of the cabinets). Auguste wiggles his way out of the cabinet, rubbing his ass right into Perci`s crotch. “Trying to rile me up, are you?” Perci murmurs low in his ear, reaching up to undo Auguste`s ponytail and let long pink locks flow freely over his shoulder, threading his fingers in comfortably. Instead of responding, Auguste plays coy and merely smiles, turning around so he can properly wrap his arms around his beloved as he leans in for a kiss that was a little more friendly than “welcome home”. “If I run out to the market place to pick up dinner, will you let me?” Perci mumbles as he slides his hand up Auguste`s thigh. 

Auguste fumbles, reaching behind them clumsily, knocking over the tiny egg timer contraption he had received from Cid as a wedding gift. He manages to extinguish the flame as Perci`s hands make their way up Auguste`s home-knitted sweater, reaching up to his angel bones where scratches still remained from last night`s escapades. Auguste giggles as those hands make their way round again, settling on his tummy and those ticklish hip bones. “Well?” Perci hums deep in his throat. “The deal is on the table.” He backs Auguste up against said object, as if to suggest that he too could be on the table if he`d like. “I say you`ve got yourself a deal, Ser Laviere-Vanrieux.” Auguste laughs against Perci`s lips. “Why thank you, Ser Laviere-Vanrieux.” Perci responds before heaving Auguste into the air, causing him to yelp and clamp his legs around Perci`s middle lest he fell.

The two couldn`t even make it to their bed, opting to fall right onto the sofa instead.

--

“I said, where is he?” Auguste whispers coldly. “You`re being oddly protective of this door.”

“If you make it worth my while, I might be inclined to tell you.” A blade glimmers in the pale moonlight as a hand grips his thigh, and Auguste grits his teeth, weighing the scales. “I`d say you don`t have much of a choice, lest I let everyone else on patrol know you and your little friends are trying to sneak by.” He swallows hard, thinking of Kaoru and Lyse. But at the same time, his hands worry at the ring concealed under his glove. I have to get out of here alive. I have to save him. “...Fine.” Auguste relaxes, convincing this supposed captor that he will be docile and sweet. He slowly begins to discard his gloves, giving him the illusion that the rest would follow. Thankfully, the lad was too thick to realize that the man under the hood was the Warrior of Light. He relinquished the grip on his knife long enough to forcefully push Auguste against the wall of the quiet alleyway. Painful, yes, but nothing compared to what his beloved must feel right now.

His white magic wouldn’t save him now. His black magic would take too much time. The only weapon he had left was the agony in his heart. He could recall his dearest friend`s voice telling him something like this, that this pain could be his greatest strength. So Auguste called on each and every ounce of hatred and sorrow that boiled underneath his flesh and rammed his knee into the rogue`s gut. As he leaned in to retort with his knife, Auguste sent him backwards with a fist to the face.

The high heel of Auguste`s boot stomped against his crotch, debilitating him long enough for Auguste to make quick work of tearing the hem of his white linen robe into a gag. He hurriedly gathered the rogue`s hands behind his back, as Auguste cursed and praised the twelve above under his breath that Kaoru insisted on teaching him the sort of things that would get them arrested if they weren`t the bloody Warriors of Light.

Auguste had never done something like this before, even when liberating his own people from their centuries long hatred of the dragons. His breath caught in his throat in near hysterics as he pulled out his cane with shuddering hands. “I have a better deal for you,” Auguste hissed, the flames licking his staff so keenly with anger that steam nearly rolled off his tongue. “I don`t kill you where you stand, and you tell me where Percimont is.”

The indent of his diamond ring made a clear imprint on the man`s face, a stain of blood dripping from the glinting silvery band. “Or else I`ll raze this godsdamned place to the ground!”

[tact-and-impulse]

Eating Together Drinking Alone Chapter 28

It’s been a while, huh? Ahahaha...I managed to finish it at least, in between writing essays. It’s getting close to the end though, and I’m a little sad. FF.net link is here, AO3 is here.

Chapter 28: Wakame

The week passed slowly, and Hiko was irritable for many reasons. While the merchant was invested, he had drawn out the bargaining over transportation, insisting that the journey from Kyoto was too far for one middleman. The crow boy hadn’t been found by the police yet. His leg was still bound in its cast. His baka deshi and the tanuki girl constantly asked if he needed anything, while their brat was a regular escape artist, always crawling and rolling.

And Sekihara had not visited once.

According to the spiky-haired boy, she was busy, for the real estate hunter had surfaced again. As of yet, the undesirable man was avoiding direct confrontation, choosing to gather information from the bank and the Akabeko’s suppliers. From the boy’s reports, Sekihara was tense, yet for her sake, Hiko had to grit his teeth and stay out of the situation.

When some good news did arrive, the source was the police department. They believed they had found Ueda Giichi, and needed to confirm his identity. Nonchalantly, Hiko headed out of the house, with his crutch under his arm. “Finally, it’s the last time I can drag myself to the station.”

Over the noise of clashing wooden swords from the dojo, his idiot apprentice had heard, calling out from the yard. “Would you like this one to go with you?”

“Your brat needs you more.” He nodded in the direction of the room, where Kenji was napping, and closed the gate behind him. “It should be quick, it had better be.”

He thought it was, when he arrived and an assigned officer led him to a jail cell. The air was humid and heavy, but Hiko’s gaze landed on the figure they stopped in front of. “Oh, that’s him.” The crow boy’s eyes were shadowed, and he looked filthy, sitting amongst the straw.

“And there’s another thing.” The young officer hesitated. “He wanted to speak to you.”

“Is that all? Fine.”

“Then, sir, you can wait in the lobby while I take him to the interrogation room.”

“There’s no need. We’ll settle it right here.” After all, civility had been off the table since the ambush on the road to Tokyo.

The officer fiddled with the keys, practically leaping back when the lock clicked. He swung the door open, and Hiko heaved an impatient sigh as he stepped forward.

In an instant, Ueda lunged. “You took Hatsu from me-”

Unceremoniously, Hiko clocked him, hard enough to slam the crow boy into the opposite wall. There, he fulfilled his promise to beat the shit out of him, and it felt pretty damn satisfying. “First of all, there was no ‘taking’. Only a decision, made of her own free will. Second, you have no right to claim possession over another person. And third, you’re a damn nuisance. You thought you could try and kill me?” Irritation had given way to full blown anger. “As if I’d roll over and die because of your petty grudge. You overestimate how important you are. Here’s the truth: you’re pathetic.” Hiko dug his crutch into the ground for emphasis. The crow boy did have some protective instinct left, because he flinched and threw his hands up in front of his face.

It was supposed to be a victory, but as Hiko walked out of the cell, his temper was still roiling.

***

Although he delayed his return to the dojo, his mood still hadn’t quite calmed. His baka deshi and the tanuki girl were sitting on the porch, beaming. The baby was standing on the ground, having pulled himself up to hold the polished wood.

“Oh, welcome back, Hiko-san. Look, Kenji’s learning how to stand on his own.” The tanuki girl’s smile stiffened just a fraction, probably at Hiko’s expression.

“Is that so?” He glanced at the brat, who was now bouncing in place. On another day, he would have laughed, but now, he merely moved to the farthest corner of the porch and settled there.

Instead of leaving him alone, Kenji dropped to the grass and crawled over. A small fist grabbed Hiko’s coat, as the baby threw a leg into the air, trying to climb up. Realizing he didn’t have any support, Kenji made a noise of frustration. “Ah!”

“You brat.” Hiko sighed, and lifted him onto his knee. “You’re troublesome.”

Kenji only grinned. The edges of two teeth glistened.

“We noticed those at lunch.” Kenshin said with pride. “Soon, we’ll give him some solid food to eat.”

Hiko gave an absentminded grunt. It was a quiet afternoon, and early summer was upon them.

He had been angry at Ueda Giichi, and then at himself. For most of his life, he had expected to die by the sword and then by the hands of his apprentice. Death was inevitable, and he thought he accepted that. But he knew why the ambush had angered him so much. It was because he didn’t want to die. He liked making pottery. He liked drinking sake in the evenings, and reading his apprentice’s terribly written letters. He liked the occasional visit to their warm household, and seeing Sekihara, no matter how brief.

He liked living.

And he hadn’t been used to that feeling in years. It disconcerted him, manifesting into the only way his subconscious dealt with discomfort: being an asshole.

Reality returned sharply, and he glared, for his apprentice was looking at him very carefully. “What is it?”

“It’s nothing, Shishou.” Then, almost hesitantly, he said. “It is only that you have always held Kenji very naturally.”

He could tell when an idiotic question was coming and flatly prevented it. “I never had a kid.”

Suddenly, the brat had the nerve to rub his face into Hiko’s shoulder. He had a scratchy spot, the tanuki girl was explaining. It was funny, the furious way the baby’s head turned to satisfy the itch. Then, there was a flash of memory, of Shoukichi doing the same, as if trying to find his mother’s scent. Maybe it was his age catching up to him, but Hiko felt overwhelmed and locked in place.

“Take him back.” He bit out, and the tanuki girl did.

Kenji squirmed in her arms, and as she patted his back, there was a stern note in her voice. “If you didn’t like that, then you just have to let him down. He’s more than eight months old, it’s not like when he was a newborn.”

He couldn’t say that he had been momentarily paralyzed, and he lashed out. “He’s still a baby. And for that matter, he had better not choke on anything you give him.”

“We’d never be that careless! Geez, what’s with you?”

His answer was stony silence, and no one spoke for a while. The only sounds came from Kenji, babbling to himself.

His apprentice finally asked. “Does your mood have anything to do with why you were in the Kyoto cemetery?”

“What, that actually came to your attention?”

“This one noticed before.” He defended. “But it was never the right time to mention it again. If that time is now, this one will listen. If it’s not, then that’s fine. Everyone has things about their past, that they don’t wish to share.” At this, he knowingly smiled at his wife. Hiko figured they must have been her words.

“That is true, and it’s not the right time. But that day will come soon, and only then, I will tell you all of it. Be patient.” They seemed to accept that. Right now, talk of death, especially Shoukichi’s, would upset them and that was more trouble than it was worth. When the brat was older and less susceptible to danger, he would tell them.

And by then, if he was lucky, he wouldn’t have to be half intoxicated to do so.

***

Hiko snapped out of sleep, when he registered a familiar presence in the house. He silently rose from his futon, listening for her voice through the walls.

“The market has fresh wakame, so I thought I would bring some. Miso always looks nicer with it, and it’s nutritious. And there were a few bargains…”

“Oh, just come into the kitchen, Tae!” The tanuki girl invited Sekihara, and their soft footsteps shuffled on the floorboards. “It’s still early, you can spare a few minutes.” There was more bustling, as the groceries were set away. Then, the brat woke, whining for reassurance. Hiko took that as his cue to step out, although his apprentice thought so too.

“Good morning, Shishou.” He smiled, despite the cranky baby pulling at his hair. “Tae-dono is here, it seems.”

“I know.”

Sekihara turned at his voice, with a little jolt. Her hands were submerged in the seaweed, and she hastily withdrew them. “Good morning.” Spring vegetables were strewn across the counter behind her.

Hiko stepped closer. In the corner of his eye, his apprentice switched off with his wife, exchanging the baby for peapods. But mostly, his focus was on Sekihara. Her face was a little flushed, and her eyes were weary from lack of sleep. He bluntly asked. “How have you been?”

“I’m alright. I’m sorry if I disturbed you, Hiko-san.”

“You weren’t disturbing.” He paused, wondering if his drowsiness hadn’t completely dissipated.

But she didn’t quip. “Oh.” Her cheeks were a darker shade of pink than before. Then, she abruptly returned to the seaweed. “I know Kaoru and Kenshin prefer this fresh, but I didn’t know your tastes. Do you like wakame, when it’s dried and salted?”

“More often than not.”

She nodded. “I’ll bring some for you next time.”

“Don’t bother, if you’re busy.”

“I’m not.” To his surprise, there was an underlying note of frustration. Her hand reached out to pat his arm, and he was unsettled enough to almost miss her next words. “What I meant was, I don’t mind at all. Things came up last week, but I’m able to visit now. How is your leg?”

His gaze fell to the cast. “Another two weeks, and I’ll be rid of it. I look forward to it.”

“Still, it’s good that you are getting better. I heard that Ueda Giichi was found and identified.” She hesitated. “After you heal, will you leave?”

Occasionally, he did long for the solitude of his own house, but he couldn’t honestly say he was eager to go. “That depends on the merchant and whether he can make up his mind.”

“Ah, then I hope he’ll deliberate a little longer.”

He stared. That had sounded like intentional flirting, and her nervous yet pleased face didn’t help that conclusion. But before he could call her out on it, she realized she had overstayed her visit, and hurriedly departed. Breakfast was rushed, for the tanuki girl had to begin her teaching. With the brat in tow, his apprentice attended to his household duties.

Hiko was left to wonder what the hell had just happened. Sekihara had been more flustered than usual, and unlike her previous confessions about missing him, her last statement had been almost coy. And yet, her expression showed that she had been genuine. Then, there was that casual pat, and her insistence on preparing the wakame.

…she liked him.

He couldn’t outright court her. He had to return to Kyoto, and the Akabeko was her livelihood. He was certain that their feelings were unequal. He had known for months that he was in love with her, only concerning himself with stifling it. But now, she was starting to like him. She did like him.

“Shishou, is something funny?” His apprentice suddenly appeared in front of him, setting the brat on the floor with the kokkeshi doll.

His mouth vaguely ached, with a satisfied grin. Quickly, he snapped out of his foolish behavior. “A lot of things, actually. I’m going for a walk.”

It wasn’t a bluff. He did meet with the merchant, who had made progress towards a final deal with a second middleman. They would have a joint meeting at the end of the week, and that was the end of the day’s business. But he had come all this way, so he would at least make the visit into town worth it. The market was buzzing, yet nothing seemed to be suitable, save for a sole exception. There was a cartful of farmers’ children, selling vibrant wisteria branches from a recent pruning. He purchased one, and a newspaper to keep it cool.

He would be nice to Sekihara, at least. She deserved that much.

“Hey, it’s Sekihara’s fellow!” A man, cooking yakiniku at a stall, called out to him. Hiko pivoted, narrowing his eyes.

“What did you say?”

“Oh, the wife and I have known Sekihara for years. We’re rootin’ for you two.”

“Yeah, I remember you. Weren’t you around last year?” Another shopkeeper added.

“That’s right, he was.” A customer said, her eyes gleaming. “Is that a present for her?”

“No.” Hiko clipped and shortly excused himself.

Deep in thought, he changed direction, for his apprentice’s home. The wisteria was not a courting gift. It could not be, with so many prying eyes. Grudgingly, he decided he would have to give it indirectly. The spiky-haired boy was leaving the dojo for the Akabeko, and Hiko stopped him.

“I need the location of Sekihara’s mailbox. You can have this in exchange.” He handed over his spare change, and the boy quickly pocketed the coins.

“Sure, whatever.”

“Is that all you say when someone essentially gives you a bribe?”

The boy’s face reddened. “No! It’s because I trust you, and, well, Tae would appreciate something from you. That’s why!” He stormed in the direction of the post office, glancing back now and then to ensure Hiko was following. As they approached, the boy jerked a thumb to the opposite end of the street. “There’s the guy who’s been troubling Tae. The one who wants to buy off the Akabeko.”

The man was exiting the bank; he hadn’t noticed them among the throng of people. He was rather ordinary, but Hiko memorized his face, before the spiky-haired boy opened the post office’s door for him. They left the wrapped branch, in the compartment assigned to her.

“Let her know to retrieve it before the end of the day.” Otherwise, it would wither.

“I will.” A shrug, and then he was off. The clerk gave a courteous smile, which Hiko ignored as he walked out.

After that, the days were not notable. He rested his leg, which was sore from his excursion. His apprentice and the tanuki girl remained as attentive as ever.

“Here’s some barley tea, Hiko-san.” The tanuki girl set a cup next to him.

His apprentice passed by and paused. “Shishou, do you need another pillow to elevate your leg?”

“This is fine. The two of you are smothering.” But, it wasn’t all terrible.

“We’re doing what we can, before you leave.” The tanuki girl retorted. “We’ll miss you then. Right, Kenshin?”

His apprentice evaded. “This one thinks Kenji will miss you the most. Ah, Kenji!”

The baby had pulled himself to the table, interested in the tray of onigiri. He grabbed a clump of rice from the nearest one, and stuffed it into his mouth. He was already chewing when his father reached him. Hiko laughed, a little maliciously, while waiting for the brat to swallow.

“It’s my fault, he’s hungry around this time.” The tanuki girl sighed. “Is he alright?”

“Yes, it was small enough for him to eat. No, no more.” He firmly pushed the tray further away, from the brat’s outstretched hand.

“That’s good.” She walked over, to tightly hug her son. “Kenji, you liked the onigiri, hm? And now you can stand too. You’re growing up to be so big.” She cooed, and the brat gave a two-toothed smile. His apprentice looked immensely proud. Immensely happy.

And Hiko was glad for them.

That evening, he sent a letter to Sekihara, a brief inquiry of how she was and that the wakame could wait. He didn’t have to wait more than a day, to receive a reply.

To Hiko-san,

I can’t tell you how happy I was to hear from you. Everyone at the Akabeko is supportive, but I can’t say it’s been easy. I haven’t gotten around to even drying the wakame yet, I’m so sorry. And the salt would be restoring, in this weather. But I heard from Yahiko that Kenji’s taken to solid food well. That is very good news indeed, and I know how meaningful this is to you.

Thank you for the gift. I’ve placed it where I can see it every day, and it’s lifted my spirits. If you can, I hope you can see how I’ve put it to use.

Until we meet again,

Tae

He folded the letter, keeping it in his coat. It was still there, when he met with the merchant and the middleman.

The discussion was productive. The merchant would deliver the pottery to one of the larger towns between Kyoto and Tokyo. The middleman would then finish the journey to Tokyo. It was a good route, and Hiko approved. It was a shame there wasn’t any sake available to celebrate, and that the middleman was pressed for time.

“Just enough to have a quick lunch.” He joked.

“The Akabeko is a good place.” Hiko offhandedly recommended.

“Oh, I don’t think so.”

“Why not?”

“Well, these are only rumors.” Under Hiko’s leveled gaze, the middleman coughed. “But I heard that it will be sold soon.”

“That’s nonsense.”

“That is how it is, when women marry. The Akabeko’s owner is a woman, isn’t she? And from what I heard, she will prepare to sell it. A wife cannot have a restaurant of her own, after all.”

He forced out a reply. “In that case, that’s all the more reason to pay a visit before it closes.” The middleman agreed, although he was too busy to pay a visit that afternoon.

Hiko was not. Fortunately, Sekihara was outside, sweeping the street in front of the Akabeko. She looked up, her smile warm. “Hiko-san, how are you?” It was as if they had picked up again, where they had left off. It was terribly comforting. “I’m sorry again, about the wakame.”

“I understand.” He cut to the point. “What’s this about you and marriage?”

“There’s nothing to it, it’s just people talking. There’s no harm.” She said, but her light smile wasn’t genuine. Hiko glanced over her. From what he remembered, the Akabeko was usually packed at this time, but only half the tables were occupied.

He jerked his head in that direction, to the bright purple flowers in one corner. “I see that you arranged the wisteria branch.”

“Yes, I did. It looks so lovely in the vase.” She beamed, and Hiko would have been satisfied. Except, for the nearby shopkeeper noticing her expression. He whispered to his neighbor, who glanced at them.

He cleared his throat. “That’s what it was for.”

Her smile slipped, and her grip on the broom handle tightened. “Of course. Right.”

“But I’d like some sake before I go.” He didn’t tell her why. It would be unkind to brag that his business was doing well, while hers wasn’t.

Her smile was wry. “It’s the middle of the day, Hiko-san. But you come in, I’ll give you a cup.”

“Thank you.” He graciously nodded.

“It’s because you look overheated. We’ve had a conversation like this before.” She reminded him about one of their first meetings, in Kyoto.

“I prefer sake. Even though that kakigori was decent, I’m sure it isn’t the same here.”

“It really isn’t.” She laughed. Hiko watched her, until she disappeared behind the curtain.

“Oh, I just missed her.” Someone lamented, and Hiko realized it was the real estate hunter. “It makes me want to order sake as well.”

Hiko did not comment, impassive against the man’s wheedling. He must have been eavesdropping…and it was likely this was not the first time he had been loitering around. That made him pointedly glare at the real estate hunter.

His expression subtly changed, revealing a hint of slyness. “No dried, salted seaweed? Perhaps, you’ll be lucky next time.” Then, he slipped away, leaving Hiko tense.

How had he known about the wakame?

Sekihara returned, waving a hand to beckon him inside. “Hiko-san, you didn’t have to stand there.”

“My leg’s fine.” He paid the waitress managing the money, before turning to Sekihara. He downed the sake, and the burn invigorated him. He gripped her shoulder, meeting her eyes. “Stay strong, Sekihara.”

“Y-yes, I know.” Then, her free hand lifted to cover his. “That’s how I live.”

It was the same for him. And he would definitely resolve this problem.

***

Finally, after six weeks, his cast was removed. Around his hospital bed, doctors were approving of how his leg had healed. To him, it was white noise. He had other things to worry about.

When he left the hospital, he scanned his surroundings. He happened to glimpse down the road and recognized two familiar faces. One was the real estate hunter; the other was the post office clerk. They were talking, and simultaneously, they broke into laughter. The clerk clapped the back of the other man.

Shit, they were friends.

Hiko retreated, carefully going the opposite way. If the clerk knew Sekihara’s mailbox, he could have gone through her mail to benefit the real estate hunter. A correspondence with a man, who was known to visit, would have been a breakthrough in undermining Sekihara’s livelihood. Either of them could have planted the idea, that it was an official courtship and she would be selling the restaurant to get married. Whether it was to her suppliers, her customers, or the neighborhood gossips, the rumor would have easily spread.

He swore under his breath.

He had realized it too late. Every hour, the Akabeko was sapped away, and they were keeping tabs on its slow decline. She was battling for her business, with hardly a minute to spare. He couldn’t contact her, not even through writing.

Now, he realized what he would have to do. He would not regret it, he would not. Still, he felt a pang in his chest at how inescapable it was.

[mamoro2202]

Stolen Heritage 14

Fandom: Rurouni Kenshin

Rating: M for sex and violence (not at the same time!)

A big thank you for my beat reader, @Animanical!

 This chapter... well. It's done. I can't bear to look at it anymore, my eyes are crossing, so I'm posting it. I'm posting it, before I select all and press delete, then burn my laptop.

(Sex in this chapter, separated with a line break.)

Outside, Kaoru turned to him, her eyes large and worried but Kenshin merely smiled for her. "Are you alright?" She whispered.

"Aa, this one is fine." She still looked concerned but Kenshin was unsure how to explain. He was better than fine; it was as though some long chained part of him had been set free.

Iesada and Mayako were waiting for them in the main room of their home, trying very hard to look if though they weren't waiting. Mayako was obviously worried as she opened the shoji, hen-like as she fussed and clucked and fluttered around them, shooing them to sit on cushions by the table and forcing tea into their hands. Iesada showed his worry without saying a word, through sympathetic eyes. Kaoru merely radiated quiet concern. Kenshin had to strangle the strange urge to laugh; their concern was genuine and well-intentioned, and he would not belittle that. Instead he smiled and nodded, and responded to Mayako and Kaoru's small talk. Keeping his expression gentle, his posture relaxed, he watched with relief as slowly their worry began to fade. He didn't want them to worry when he felt so very good.

Later, as he and Kaoru were getting ready for bed, she still sent him sidelong glances as she braided her hair – eventually he simply couldn't take it anymore. She squeaked in surprise as he put his arms around her waist and pulled her into their bed underneath him.

"This one is fine, Kaoru, please stop worrying."

She threaded her fingers into his hair. "Really?"

"Yes, that I am." Kaoru's eyes searched his, and he was patient, keeping his gaze even and open, willing her to see the truth of it.

She sighed. "I'm glad." He smiled, dropping a kiss on the tip of her nose, before settling onto his side, curling around his wife's slightly smaller form. She made a small, happy noise and snuggled backward into his arms. Once they were settled around one another, Kenshin fell asleep, warm and content, with Kaoru's soap-and-flowers scent filling his dreams.

.

.

.

Kenshin's eyes flew open, before blinking at the grey pre-dawn light of not-home. He stayed still, taking stock of his surroundings, and regretfully concluded that his left arm had gone numb – Kaoru was using it like a pillow, and her hand was wrapped around his forearm. He shifted, trying to carefully extricate himself without waking his wife. Once successful, he shook out his numb limb until it was full of painful needles, tucked the covers around his still slumbering wife, and rose to dress.

Their hostess was cooking when he entered the kitchen. "Good morning, Mayako-dono."

"Good morning! You're up early." Her smile brought extra lines to the corners of her eyes. She pushed forward a cup of tea; Kenshin hummed in agreement, and for a moment simply drank his tea and watched her work.

"Can this one be of assistance?" He set aside his cup and began tying back his sleeves. Mayako blinked at him in surprise, but didn't refuse. He smiled gently and reached for a knife, edging into position in front of the soup pot. They worked quietly for a time, and the familiar routine still felt good, even if it wasn't in his own kitchen.

"Kenshin-kun, you're quite a cook, eh?"

"This one has had a lot of practice, that I have." The soup needs something…

"Kaoru-san doesn't cook?"

He shook his head, adding seasonings to the simmering pot. "Not very often, that she doesn't. My wife teaches."

Mayako raised her eyebrows. "She teaches and you cook?"

"Aa." Maybe a little bit more miso? Ah, it's better now.

"Does she like to teach?" Kenshin hummed in confirmation, and re-tasted the soup. Perfect.

Mayako reached forward and touched his arm. Kenshin looked over at her, blinking away thoughts of breakfast. "Oro?"

"I'm glad." She smiled widely. "I talk too much, I always have, but Iesada doesn't talk enough, and in that way we just fit. You –- you were so little when you left, and I thought – well, I worried for one of ours, all alone out there. But you've found a good fit, and that's… Well." She patted his arm. "Never mind. I think we're ready here. I'll go call Iesada in from the garden. You go get your woman."

Kenshin smiled at her back as she bustled away, warmed by her affection, and once she was gone, he quickly added a bit more salt to the rice, before going to wake his wife.

Kaoru blinked awake slowly, her blue eyes cloudy, then she wrinkled her nose in distaste and rolled over. "No."

He tried not to smile. "Yes."

"Kenshiiin, no…"

"Yes, Kaoru," he coaxed, but she just burrowed further under the covers. "There is breakfast, that there is."

"...What kind of breakfast?" asked the blanket lump that was his beloved wife.

"This one helped to make it-"

Kaoru sat up abruptly and tossed the covers aside. "Well, then, let's go!" Kenshin laughed, waited with her as she dressed and combed out her glossy hair, then followed her to the dining room and sat by her side on a comfortable cushion. He ate and listened to Mayako's small talk, observed Iesada's quiet, serious face, and watched his wife slowly finish waking up through the first half of the meal. This was neither his house nor his family, but still, it was very nice.

"Will you two be leaving soon, then?"

"Aa, Mayako-dono. This one was planning to leave tomorrow; first, though, we must ensure that all of our clothing is clean, and purchase some travel food, that we must."

Mayako nodded. "We'll get all of your things in the wash straight away, then. One nice thing about the wind is that the wash dries quickly! And travel food, I can whip that up today, certainly."

"That's very nice, Mayako-san." Kaoru's eyes were clear now, and her teacup was empty, something Kenshin quickly remedied, and he was rewarded with her bright smile.

Their hostess waved a hand. "Pfft. The work of a single morning! It's my pleasure."

"We will help, of course, Mayako-dono."

The small woman drew herself up to her full height, back stiffening. "You two will do no such thing! You'll have to go visit Okabe-sensai this morning, and then come back here for lunch."

"Oh, but-"

"Shoo!" she said, and Kenshin found himself out on the street without quite knowing how it had been accomplished.

"Oro?"

"How does she do that?!" Kaoru's eyes were laughing. "Do you think that Mayako-san would teach me how? I could use it on Yahiko…" He felt the corners of his lips twitching, but merely shook his head silently, and turned them towards the shrine.

The neat little shrine was only a few minutes away, and it was not surprising that Okabe wasn't outside; at this time of the morning, he was likely working inside. He answered their polite call and they stepped into the priest's living room.

Okabe released the ties on his sleeves. "Good morning! Let me start the water to boil, eh?"

"Good morning, Okabe-sensai; that would be very nice, thank you," Kenshin said, seating himself where Okabe had indicated, then smiling internally as Kaoru seated herself to his left. She always moved more elegantly than she thought she did – she sank onto the cushion with grace, her posture attractive if not traditionally feminine. Dressed in hakama, she still sat as a woman, but the firm, straight lines of her proclaimed her sword training. Okabe returned with a tea tray laden with goods, and Kenshin took that first quiet sip with reverence. They made small talk for several minutes, the priest clearly edging around some question that he wished to ask.

"Will you two be leaving soon, then?"

"Aa, tomorrow, that we shall."

Okabe nodded. "It's to be expected, of course. You have a life and a son waiting for you." Kenshin nodded, smiling gently. "Well. I have a small thing for you then." The priest produced a small, neatly wrapped package and presented it carefully.

Kenshin blinked in surprise. "Oro?"

His wife came to his rescue. "Oh, no, we couldn't, there's no need."

"Yes, yes. You must, go on."

Kenshin found his tongue. "You're too kind to us, Okabe-sensai, we could not possibly accept this gift." The priest only smiled at the ritual refusal and offered a third time, a twinkle lighting his eyes as Kenshin tucked the small object away. The rest of the visit progressed pleasantly. Okabe was pleased to learn that they visited Kyoto annually – Kenshin promised to visit next spring.

They returned to the Hanari home just before ten in the morning. Kenshin smiled at the sight of his and Kaoru's clothing already drying on the poles; Mayako had been quite busy. He opened the door and was instantly struck by the scent of freshly baked sweets: many, many sweets. The main room had been drastically rearranged, as though for a party. Oh no…

He filled his voice with questions. "Mayako-dono?"

Mayako popped out from another room, her sleeves back, an apron on and her cheeks flushed. "Kenshin-kun, Kaoru-san; It's about time you were back!" Her smile was bright and excited.

"Mayako-dono, this -"

"No time!" She waved him to silence in her normal, friendly way. "Kaoru-san, come on then, I need to get you changed."

"But.. Mayako-san, what are -"

"No, no, there's no time." The petite woman somehow herded Kaoru into a bedroom in no time at all, protests notwithstanding. Kenshin nearly sighed, watching until the women were out of sight.

Iesada came through the front door, carrying two teapots. They're borrowing teapots!? Kenshin was careful not to moan. Was the first party not enough? Iesada looked him over briefly and smiled, quietly patting Kenshin's shoulder as he made his way to the kitchen.

"Iesada-dono, this one must complete a small errand, so I must," Kenshin said, and Iesada hummed quietly. "This one will return shortly." It was only sensible to do this now, while Kaoru was otherwise occupied. Bowing politely, he slipped out the front shoji and hurried the eleven houses east to where the headman lived.

He was careful to project a gentle aura as he knocked on the door. The headman's seemingly meek wife answered his call, and with barely time for a "pardon" from him, she led him to her husband. The man was again seated in an overly-warm room, but this time he appeared to be frowning into a record book. It was refreshing to see him doing his duty. Kenshin seated himself and placed the sakabatou beside him.

"You didn't kill them." Yaganita said, not looking up from his book.

Kenshin was careful to keep a neutral expression. "No, this one did not."

"I hired you to kill them."

"This one does not kill."

Yaganita finally tossed the book aside and glared at him. "It's a damned nuisance! I've got to feed, water and guard them. I've got to send two able men to fetch the police!"

"That is no reason to kill them, that it isn't."

"No reason!" The man's face was turning red. "Didn't I just give you the reasons? It's expensive, is what it is! If I killed them now it would be illegal. You were supposed to kill them in a fight, nice and clean, no fuss." At this point in his tirade, Kenshin began to fill with a cold anger. "I hired you to kill them."

"This one does not kill."

The headman's beady, unpleasant little eyes were nearly happy. "I refuse to pay for a half-done job!"

Ah. The anger clawing at his throat began to recede. He is only looking for a reason to avoid payment. The man was crass to discuss a man's life in such a manner, but at least it was only an act.

"That is fine, so it is." Yaganita's face slackened; he'd been expecting an argument.

"Yaganita-dono, this one would greatly appreciate a cup of water, that I would." He smiled gently as the woman's forehead delicately creased in surprise. She bowed, murmuring something presumably polite, and excused herself from the room. Yaganita watched him warily.

As the shoji slid closed, Kenshin dropped his gentle posture, allowing threat to fill the air. "We have things to discuss; perhaps you are not aware, but this one visits this area each year." Sweat beaded the other man's forehead and his breathing accelerated. Satisfaction curled in Kenshin's gut, and he leaned forward.

.

.

.

"Raise your arms."

Kaoru obediently lifted her arms and watched Mayako circle around her, fussing with the lines of the obi. She had tried objecting earlier, but it had been more than useless – any more risked hurting the woman's feelings.

"Turn a little." Mayako said, and Kaoru turned, her arms still in the air, listening to her hostess cluck disapprovingly. "There's no use. We'll just have to take the obi off and adjust the padding. Sorry, dear, but there's nothing for it." Mayako had given her what was likely her nicest kimono, in a pretty blush pink color, and Kaoru would not complain about the woman's fussing.

"Mayako-san, is there a party today?"

"Mmm? Oh, no, not really." She tugged the padding into place and turned Kaoru around to begin wrapping the obi again. "I might have mentioned to Atsumi-san next door that you two were leaving, and that Kenshin-kun wasn't going to accept payment for routing those bandits. Now then. What should we do with your hair?"

.

.

.

Kenshin quietly squared his shoulders before stepping onto the Hanari's porch. Another party was not the end of the world, and if Iesada and Mayako wished to throw one, then he would endure it with good humor. Kaoru was waiting with their hosts in the main room, dressed in a pretty pink kimono with a nicely contrasting yellow stripe obi.

She stepped forward and plucked his sleeve. "Kenshin, you should get dressed," she said, and he smothered the urge to sigh again. He followed her to their room and obediently changed into a clean pair of white hakama and his blue kimono. He couldn't help but smile when Kaoru wrinkled her nose and began tugging at his collar, dragging it further up his chest until it lay neatly, her small hands warm as they ran over his chest.

"You need to look nice. Not only are you related to most of the people here, but we're leaving in the morning, and Mayako-san let slip that we weren't accepting payment for getting rid of the bandits." Oh. Not a party, then. A party would have actually been better; he had an inkling of what was coming and it would be… tiring. He obediently followed Kaoru back to the main room, resisting the urge to grab her and run while no one was looking.

Mayako smiled broadly. "Well, aren't you two a nice-looking couple! Although... Kenshin-kun, here, let this old woman help," and then she proceeded to smooth his hair as though he was a small, rowdy boy instead of an adult. Her hands were gentle, and her affectionate fussing made him smile. "There now, you look a proper young a seat, and I'll fetch the tea." Mayako bustled away and as he seated himself, he stole a glance at Kaoru. She was biting her lips the way she did when she was trying not to smile. He shook his head and turned to Iesada. The other man read the question in his eyes and in turn offered him a sweet bun; that was probably not a good sign.

The first visitors arrived not fifteen minutes later; apparently the village's mysterious communication network was functioning well. Iesada quietly showed the two men (one a third cousin and one a second) to the table and a beaming Mayako poured tea for them throughout the small talk. Kenshin was mostly quiet, trying to appear friendly without being overly casual, doing his best to fulfill the role expected of him.

Sure enough, after dancing around the subject for several minutes, second cousin Yuu produced a small package and presented it politely. "We're all very grateful that you got rid of those bandits, Kamiya-san. This is just a small, unimportant thing, but please accept it from us." Kenshin refused with equal politeness, twice, because that seemed safe, and then carefully took the package and tucked it away. The two men left with relieved smiles and polite bows.

The moment Iesada closed the shoji, Mayako jumped to her feet, snatching up the visitors' teacups. "I haven't got enough cups, even with those I borrowed. Hopefully there'll be enough time between visits to get them washed." She flew to the sink and scrubbed, huffing back into place just as another greeting was called from outside. She was all smiles as Iesada showed another pair of villagers to the table.

The afternoon stretched long. Mayako bustled and beamed and hovered, playing the hostess for over forty visits, made up of couples and pairs and a few small families. Kenshin drank enough tea to drown in. He smiled and refused gifts until he could have recited the words in his sleep. The only visits he honestly enjoyed were with from the men with whom he'd been friendly at the welcome party, and with the families that brought small children. He missed his son.

"There now, it's dinnertime, and it should be pretty much done." Mayako rose and walked to the kitchen. "I sat aside some soup and other things earlier. I'll just get them on the stove."

Kenshin huffed in relief and stood. "Excuse me a moment." He sketched a quick bow and slipped outside at full speed. He'd drunk more tea than his bladder could bear. Coming out the door of the outhouse, he stepped aside just in time to avoid colliding with Kaoru, and he grinned as she by him. It was nice to know that he wasn't entirely alone in his suffering. Supper was simple, quiet, and perfect. And tea-less. Good or not, he wasn't touching another cup of tea until tomorrow. After dinner, he made his excuses to their hosts and the Hanaris merely smiled with understanding eyes, extracting a promise that they would say goodbye before leaving in the morning.

Once in their room, he sighed in relief as he shut the shoji behind them. Kaoru eyed the pile of gifts critically, her hands on her hips. "At least they're small. But how on earth are we going to carry all of them?" She knelt and began to sort through the little packages; there was quite a bit of food; a few handmade trinkets; one tiny painting, made on a smooth little piece of wood; a pretty red hair ribbon for Kaoru; and a small red and blue top, presumably for Kenji. Kaoru stacked the gifts and tidied away the wrapping cloths, treating the items with care.

Kenshin watched her quietly. The day had been an endless parade of strangers. The sight of her, looking so normal, so very much like home... Kenshin's chest ached as he watched her, and he wanted so badly to touch her – and the marvel of it was that he could. He seated himself behind her and shifted forward. He raised his hands to her shoulders and squeezed lightly. She started a little, then relaxed backwards, against his chest, and he began untying the knots holding her clothing in place.

***********************************************************************************

She arched her neck to the side, confident in her own appeal and comfortable with him, with his touch, and he smiled, happily kissing that offered skin. She hummed in approval as the last of her ties fell away and turned to face him. He eased the borrowed kimono off her arms and placed it over the chest against the wall, trying to coax her onto the bed. She smiled and resisted, instead moving to strip him out of his own clothes, while he carefully pulled the pins from her hair.

So soft… Somehow all the feminine parts of Kaoru were so divinely soft, her hips and breasts and lips. He tightened his arms to pull her close, flattening those lovely breasts against his chest, and raised them both to their knees, cradling his hips against hers. He filled a hand with firm, round backside, kneading appreciatively and pressing her even closer as she began a little rocking motion against him.

He moaned quietly into her mouth at the friction, and tilted her hips up a fraction, meeting that teasing rhythm, the wonderful slide of her soft skin over his made him pant.

She pulled away and lay down, then reached for his hand. Kenshin caught his breath at the site of her lying there, her blue eyes shining in welcome, the lamplight playing over her smooth skin. He settled down over her, stroking wondering fingers over her cheek. She watched him watching her, and her smile changed to just slightly smug. Shaking his head, he leaned in to kiss that smiling mouth, and she let him, allowing him to lead this particular dance. He trailed his fingers across her jaw and caressed her neck, savoring the wet glide of her tongue in his mouth. She threaded one of her hands into his hair, curled a leg around the back of his thigh, and for several minutes, kissing Kaoru was his entire world. When she finally began to grow restless under him, he pulled away from that sweet mouth and worked downward, sucking and nibbling at her neck and collarbones. He dropped little kisses across her belly, stroking her thighs and hips and sides as he scooted downward.

Propping himself on an elbow, he delicately separated that tender flesh, before he took the first, reverent lick, while reaching for a breast with his free hand. His arm was barely long enough to reach from this position, but he could and did, the ends of his fingers brushing gently over her nipple while his mouth lavished care on her center.

Kaoru whined quietly, but he kept the pressure of his tongue light and teasing, listening to the changed cadence of her breathing. He ran careful, gentle circles with the tip of his tongue, causing her to arch and turn her head to the side, fingers clenched in the blankets. She was so uninhibited, and he adored it; her response to his touch, to his hands and mouth, always made his own arousal coil tight. He abandoned her breast, his left hand still busy, while the fingers of his right eased inside her, teasing and pressing. She started shivering, her neck and chest flushing pink, and he knew all of the signs; she was very close. He drew her little bud into his mouth and sucked, curling his fingers and stroking the nerves of that little rough patch in her sheath, and then she arched her back, bowing completely off of the mattress, whining and shaking, growing impossibly wetter around his fingers.

As she relaxed back onto the futon, panting like she'd been running a race. Pressing her hips downward and he tongued at her hard and fast, chasing her back up that crest before she'd even finished coming down. It didn't take long at all before she came a second time, bucking and shivering under his hands. At last, he pulled away and pressed his forehead against her belly, drawing in a deep, unsteady breath. He wiped his face clean and crawled back up her body.

She was a wonderful mess, flushed and sweating and dazed. He guided her up and forward, curling an arm around her hips as he brought her onto his lap. He glided inside her effortlessly, and he closed eyes briefly; she was exquisite. She braced both hands on his shoulders as he showed her the rhythm he wanted, coaxing her into a slow, lazy, rocking motion, her strong legs working to bring them both pleasure.

He placed an arm across the small of her back to encourage her to arch backwards,and ah – complete, total access to her long-forbidden breasts. Lowering his head, he slowly, reverently, drew one of those lovely, soft breasts into his mouth. So long... it had been so long since he'd been allowed, and that coveted flesh in his mouth felt so good: soft and sweet. Her nipple pebbled, and the texture was wonderful on his tongue. He sucked and licked, gently plucking them with his lips. Kaoru's hands were in his hair again, holding him pressed against her chest and it was wonderful. He'd nearly forgotten.

He caressed her breasts as she rode him, her wet, soft-strong body so, so perfect. When he felt the familiar tingling of the end approaching, he reluctantly relinquished her breasts and laid down. She leaned forward, bracing her hands on his shoulders, smiling, and abruptly changed her pace. She gave him fast, and he could focus on nothing but his reflexive thrusts into his wife's body. Soon, she was shivering and sweating, her skin slick over and around him. Panting, he reached for her center again and began a quick, firm circling motion with the flat of his fingers, because that's the way she liked it when she was this close.

She reared backward, neck arched and body stiff, pulsing and clenching around him and he watched through her through dazed eyes. When her lashes fluttered open again, she smiled a lazy, sated smile. His heart was pounding in his ears, his mouth was dry and without conscious thought, he reached out, clasped her hips and pulled her forward while he pushed back. It was too much, it wasn't enough, it was so close, and it was just almost… Kaoru, his beautiful woman, met him thrust for thrust, leaning over him, her hands by his shoulders and her hair falling over his face and chest. He bit his lips, hard, to stifle the desire to groan. Pulling her forward, off of his cock, he shook and spasmed as he released, pleasure whiting out the edges of his world.

Afterward, he simply lay still next to his wife, relishing the aftereffects and enjoying the warmth of his wife's body - until Kaoru began to giggle.

"Oro?" He looked over and raised his eyebrows as she giggled harder, pressing her hands over her mouth to muffle the sound. He raised onto an elbow and tugged teasingly at her wrists.

"How long have you been wanting to do that?" She asked. He raised his eyebrows, and she gestured to her chest.

He smiled. "How old is Kenji again?" Kaoru laughed and shoved his shoulder, and he obligingly flung himself away and onto his back on the soft futon, languidly stretching his arms over his head as she turned away to clean up.

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Kaoru rested against him, her head on his shoulder, and he welcomed her, curling his arm around her. She was rubbing her feet together, which always meant that she wanted to talk. He waited.

"We should threaten him."

That was not what he'd been expecting. "Oro?"

"The headman." She raised her head to look him in the eye. "We should threaten Yaganita."

He blinked. "...There is no need, that there isn't."

"He's awful! We have to -" she cut off, narrowing her eyes suspiciously. "Kenshin. Did you already threaten him?"

Ignorance was likely his best defense. "Oro?"

"You did! You threatened him without me!"

"Oro!" She darted a hand downward, trying to reach the ticklish spot above his left hip and he only half-heartedly tried to evade her, because laughing was pleasant, and because playing with Kaoru made him happy.

[mamoro2202]

Stolen Heritage 10

All due thanks to my wonderful beta reader, Animanical! :D

Fandom: Rurouni Kenshin. Rated M. Posted here in its entirety.

Kaoru was redressing herself as he entered and she smiled up at him. "You're in a very good mood."

"That's so," he agreed easily, arranging their dinner and handing her a pair of chopsticks. Kaoru gave him a cheeky grin, and Kenshin just shook his head at her smugness. "Soup?" He offered.

Kenshin walked quietly down the dark street, weaving between houses. During the day, there had been a patrol on the main roads of the village, but at this hour there appeared to be no one. Although the fallow fields and the gardens behind each house provided a nice line of sight anyone on guard, the village itself had no real defenses. The barns and storage sheds were unprotected and no guards were posted despite the repeated raids.

This is utterly foolish. Kenshin frowned and made his way back to the Hanari home before it became too late. He knocked on the front door quietly, and was greeted by the Hanari Iesada, Mayako's husband. They exchanged pleasantries, then Kenshin excused himself to his room. Kaoru was asleep, her dark head peeping out over the thick covers. He smiled at the sight of her, and the sound of her familiar, strangely delicate snoring, before changing into his sleeping robe. Once dressed, he placed the sakabatou at the head of the futon, and slipped under the covers with her.

She hummed and turned towards him. He curled his arms around her, nuzzling the sweetly scented spot behind her ear. "Go back to sleep, Kaoru." Pressing a kiss to his jaw, she then snuggled under his chin. Kenshin settled into a comfortable position, allowing the warm body and even breathing of his wife to lull him to sleep.

.

.

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The next morning, he and Kaoru waited two hours after full daylight, then, his hat firmly in place over his bright hair, they walked through the village to the home of the headman. Kenshin noted the indolent guards, now out and about in the daylight, as well as noting how Karou was now walking closer to him. He looked carefully at the other women going about their business and saw that they, too, were avoiding those men, eyes cast down and away. Anger began a slow smolder in his gut.

When they left the guards behind, Kenshin gently pulled his wife between two houses and kept his voice low. "Kaoru-dono, you are avoiding those guards, that you are. Why?"

She looked at the ground. "I don't really know. They're louts, I could beat them into the dirt, but something about them…" She shook her head and twisted her fingers together. He nodded and briefly clasped her hand, brushing a thumb across her knuckles.

Per Mayako's directions, the headman's house was at the northernmost point of the village. The house was grander than the others of the village, which to a certain degree one might expect, but here it seemed excessive: although barely budded, the trees to the side and back of the house were clearly ornamental, and there did not appear to be a vegetable garden, which implied very negative things about family's means of support. In response to Kenshin's polite call, a subdued woman in expensive clothing answered the door.

"Pardon me," Kenshin offered a bow, and was careful to keep his tone gentle. "This one would like to speak to the headman, that I would." His request was accompanied by his guileless rurouni smile.

The woman looked up through her lashes and her blue eyes were disturbingly dull. She nodded and gestured them inside without speaking, walking with tiny steps in her silk kimono, like a courtesan, instead of the uninhibited stride of a country woman. She showed them into a room that was grandly decorated, if just on the wrong side of gaudy.

"Please wait here, honored guests." Her voice was an emotionless murmur. "I will tell my honored husband of your arrival." She bowed too low and left.

Kaoru's eyes were huge. "What was that?!" she hissed. "That woman acted like she was fifty years out of date! And timid as a mouse, besides." Kenshin merely frowned, unease settling in his gut. It was several minutes later when the woman shuffled back to the door.

She bowed, again far too low. "Please follow me, if you would." She led the way to a back room. The house itself was beautifully decorated and unusually warm, with several hearths and a fire in each room. Really, the amount of coal being burned here was unpleasant, overwhelming the house's natural design for drawing the smoke away, and creating a quite literal 'unpleasant air' in the home. She opened a door to another slightly gaudy room and seated herself demurely behind and to the left of the man who was presumably both the headman and her husband. The headman was settled on a cushion, dressed expensively and … eating. Eating and drinking sake well after breakfast and well before lunch, at a time of day when any respectable country couple should be working.

Kaoru, with chin tilted forward and shoulders straight, knelt at Kenshin's left, their knees evenly aligned; he suppressed a smile.

"What can I do for you?" The man's words were polite enough.

"This one was passing through-"

"Former samurai, eh?" Kenshin kept the surprise off his face at the interruption. The man gestured and his wife quietly refilled his cup. "What are people like you doing on the mountain?"

Kenshin didn't quite manage to maintain his smile. The man tossed back his sake and gestured for yet more, before Kenshin regained composure and replied, "This one was passing through and heard about the village's recent difficulties-"

"Ah, good!" The man cut Kenshin off again. "Man like you needs some work, eh? You look kinda scrawny, though." He eyed Kenshin with open skepticism; Kenshin saw Kaoru's hands curl into fists. "Think you're up for slaughtering some bandits?"

Kenshin blinked. "This one does not-"

"They're a damned nuisance! We won't make our taxes at this rate!"

...Theft and the rape of village women is a 'nuisance'... "This one would be happy to assist-"

"How much?" The man wiped his mouth. "We don't have much to pay," he added. The man's beady little eyes were gleaming now; no doubt he hoped to dupe a passing warrior into eradicating the bandits for a pittance. Kenshin had no intention of taking money for such a thing, but the stupid man hadn't even let him finish a single sentence yet.

"This one would not require-"

"Good, good! We'll work out payment after, eh?"

Kenshin drew in a slow, deep breath. "Perhaps you could tell this one about the attacks, and what measures your village has taken."

"Ah, well, the raids started this fall, just after the harvest was brought in. A bunch of 'em, maybe six or ten men, came barreling across the fields and hit the storage building just down the road. By the time everybody got dressed and made it down there, the bastards had made off with as much rice and salted fish as they could carry. The next time they stole even more!"

"How often have they returned?"

"Mmm, every three or four weeks. We're almost down to millet. Millet!" The man scowled, and his wife flinched. The anger in Kenshin's gut burned brighter.

"What countermeasures have you taken?"

"A couple of the men have taken up guard around the village. This place is full of cowards, though, so only two or three who will take up arms and patrol."

"Do they patrol at night? Guard the storehouses?"

The man licked his fat lips. "They have to sleep sometime. Not reasonable for a man to work at night."

"But do the bandits not raid at night?"

The man wiped his mouth on the back of his hand. "Not reasonable." His eyes were challenging.

Kenshin gave a sharp nod and changed the subject. "How long has it been since the last raid?"

"Three weeks," the man said sullenly.

"Do they attack from any consistent direction?"

"How would I know? I can't be everywhere!" He pounded a fist on the little side table and the woman sitting behind him jumped.

"...Do you know of any other pertinent information?"

The man glared. "No."

Kenshin bowed. "Then this one shall take my leave."

The fresh, chill air outdoors was a cooling relief. Beside him, Kaoru radiated anger. "What a disgusting man!" Kenshin couldn't help but agree.

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.

.

They passed through the fields and into the surrounding trees, in the direction that Okabe had indicated yesterday.

"What are we looking for?" Kaoru said, now calm and quiet at his side.

"Any traces of the bandits' passing, old camps or anything of the like," Kenshin replied. Kaoru nodded and turned her eyes toward the ground. They completed a slow, careful circuit of the forest near the village. There were no signs of a large group of men's movement or camps, which implied two things, one, tracking was quite difficult on this mountain, and two, the bandits had at least a semi-permanent camp relatively nearby. Finding such a location would be difficult.

"I haven't seen anything, Kenshin… What should we do?" She tucked a stray hair behind her ear and looked to him with concerned eyes.

He sighed. "We should perhaps ask some of the village men if they have seen any signs. For now, though, we should keep watch at night and sleep during the day, that we should."

"Unlike those idiots?"

"Indeed."

Kaoru shaded her eyes and checked the position of the sun. "Well, we've missed lunch. We could go back to eat and nap and wait."

He smiled. "That would seem to be the best option."

The walk back was pleasant, if uncomfortably windy. "What is going on with the wind in this place? It never stops!"

"This mountain is famous for the wind, so it is. It is worse earlier in the year."

"It gets worse?"

"Aa. They have a memorial each year for the men and women that are killed by the wind capsizing their boats."

Kaoru stopped and stared, radiating disbelief. She looked adorable. "Why does anyone live here?!"

Kenshin just laughed.

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.

The villagers were… different as they walked through town. Kenshin was still wearing his hat, as they'd been tromping around outside for hours, but that didn't matter. He hadn't expected it to. In a village this size, everyone knew everyone else's business, and indeed, Mayako appeared to be an accomplished gossip. Gone were the suspicious side glances. Several people called out greetings. Many more smiled and bowed in passing. Not a single mother called their children away as they passed.

Kaoru's smile was especially bright.

The had indeed missed lunch, by several hours. "Hanari-dono, this one sincerely apologizes. Perhaps you might have something left over…" He said, trying large, sweet eyes.

The woman, who had only ever been the epitome of a kind and polite, if slightly distant, hostess, placed a hand on her hip and pursed her lips. "Kamiya-san, you are both so late that it's nearly dinner! And don't try that face with me, young man, I've helped raise a brood of children."

It was only three o'clock. "Ah, well, Hanari-dono, this one has agreed to help with the bandits, so I have, and my wife and this one spent the afternoon in the woods-"

"The woods! Well then, go wash your hands and faces and come back. I'll warm some soup." She shooed them out of the kitchen like naughty children.

Kaoru muffled a giggle behind her hand, and Kenshin just shook his head. They returned to the kitchen with their faces and hands washed.

"There now!" Mayako dried her hands on her apron and ladled up some soup. "Just the thing for a breezy day, eh?" She patted Kenshin's shoulder as she passed. He and Kaoru exchanged looks.

"So, you're going to take care of those bandits… It's about time someone did! You both carry swords, too." She smiled at Kaoru. "Not that many female warriors these days, more's the shame. Nice to see a young woman what can look after herself. I'd like to see them try to attack a woman like you." Her expression was vicious. "If more women could defend themselves it would give men like that a pause, I say." She cleaned the counter with more vigor than the task truly deserved.

They finished their soup, and Kaoru smiled at the woman. "Thank you very much for lunch, Hanari-san."

"We plan to sleep through dinner, Hanari-dono. If it would not be too much trouble, perhaps you could set back a bit of the evening meal."

"Going to be up and around at night, then? Good! Those idiots Yaganita-san has marching around are as useless as tits on a boar." Kenshin blinked and Kaoru pressed her lips together to avoid grinning.

Kenshin cleared his throat. "This one has noticed that the village women appear to be avoiding those men, that I have."

"Well, they would, wouldn't they? Almost as bad as the bandits, that lot."

"They make my wife uncomfortable." That still chafed him.

"Then she's a smart woman. Those louts take what they want from vendors on market day like it's their due. They say nasty things to the young girls. Cruel men only get meaner when you give them authority; they shouldn't be guards. I wouldn't trust them to guard my laundry on washing day! Only Yaganita-san would give those bullies weapons." Well. That was… forthcoming. "Ah, don't mind me. You two should go get to sleep; just remember not to get caught without your sword, young woman." Again, she shooed them out the kitchen and towards their bedroom.

Kaoru shut the shoji and grinned at her husband. "Well that was different! She was acting like we were her own children."

Kenshin shook his head and smiled, dressing for bed while Kaoru rolled out the futon.

...Every child belonged to the whole village, Okabe-dono did say…

.

.

.

Kaoru loved watching Kenshin sleep. She so rarely got to do so; he fell asleep after her, and usually woke before her, too. If he looked younger than he was while awake, while sleeping, with his face relaxed and hair mussed, he looked no older than she did. He always slept on his back; they started sleeping curled up together on their sides, but he always ended the night sprawled out like this. He was sleeping much more lightly than he did at home, but still… He just looked so cute in his sleep, and so very much like their son.

It was fully dark, and with a quiet sigh, Kaoru decided to go fetch dinner. Very, very carefully she eased out of the covers.

Immediately, violet eyes flew open. "Kaoru?"

Exasperating man! "I'm just going to get dinner, Kenshin. You should rest more if you're tired."

He blinked innocently. "This one is awake now, Kaoru-dono. There is no need-"

"Kenshin! It's only to the kitchen!" She threw her half of the covers over his face. "Just rest!"

His voice was muffled under the blankets. "...Yes, Kaoru."

She rose and dressed, smiling at her husband as he emerged from under the quilts, his red hair messy and full of static.

Mayako was bustling about the kitchen, evidently making tea for her husband. "Ah, Kamiya-san, I've set back some dinner for you." She abandoned her task and took several dishes from the back of the stove, arranging them on a tray. "Here you are. Make sure your man eats, eh? Needs more meat on his bones."

Kaoru smiled and accepted the tray. "Hanari-san. You're being very, um, friendly today."

The woman beamed. "Well, I would be, wouldn't I? I knew your husband as a child, you know. Sweet boy."

Kaoru blinked. "But…"

"Well, only one boy he could be, isn't there? Shinta was always a gentle child, well behaved. A person's basic nature never changes. Mean children grow into hard men. Gentle children grow in easy-going sorts. And he's going to sort out those bandits, so all to the good, eh? And he wears that sword like he was born to it. I'd wager he knows how to use it. Now, off with you before that all gets cold." Kaoru blinked; that woman really knew how to dismiss someone.

Kenshin was brushing his shaggy hair into submission as she let herself back into their room. He looked at the tray of food in surprise as Kaoru set it down near the hearth.

"That is too much for two people, that it is."

"Hanari-san thinks you need fattening up."

"Oro?"

Kaoru laughed.

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.

After eating, they walked quietly through the village to the communal storage shed on the central-east side of the road.

"What now?"

"Now, we wait, that we do."

"Alright… where?"

"Normally this one would suggest the roof, that I would, but the wind is quite cold." Already Kaoru's cheeks were pink and her nose was red. "Kaoru-dono, please conceal yourself here." There was a sheltered place behind the shed behind a truly enormous tree.

"But I can't see!"

"And thus they will be unable to see you, but you will be able to hear them, that you will. This one will make a quick circuit of the village and return." Kaoru began to protest, but Kenshin shook his head. "We will alternate; it will help reduce boredom and keep the blood moving."

In Kaoru's highly considered opinion, it was the most boring night she had ever spent, tempered only by the fact that sometime before dawn, Kenshin allowed her to snuggle into his side and doze. They spent two days doing exactly the same with no results.

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.

Kaoru was ready to revolt; all out mutiny seemed infinitely appealing. Never in her life had she been so sedentary. She'd been practicing kata in the woods each day, but it hadn't helped. She'd re-read her two small books until she could recite every damn poem. And she'd even started her cycle three days ago; at least sex would have been something to do! Kaoru abruptly pushed aside her lunch and shot to her feet. "I can't take it anymore!"

"Oro?"

"How can you stand it?!"

"...Stand what?"

"This!" Kaoru resisted the childish urge to stomp her foot.

He just gave her an infuriatingly calm smile. "This one has stood guard many times before, Kaoru."

"Ugh!" She wanted to pull out her own hair. Or his. Pulling out Kenshin's hair seemed like a good option. "I can't do this, Kenshin!" She dropped back into a kneeling position and began pleading without shame. "Can't we do something different? Anything different?"

Kenshin's eyes softened. "Why don't we go visit Okabe-sensai today? He might need some help, that he might."

Kaoru heaved a sigh of relief. "Thank you."

The town was mostly deserted, with only a few women and a cheerful rabble of very small children out and about. Kaoru smiled at the three toddlers with dark red hair. Looking up, she noticed that there were a lot of people standing in their terraced fields, bent over.

"Kenshin, what are they doing?"

He looked up as well. "Ah, likely just preparing the fields, removing stones and roots and the like. This one has done the task, many times, for room and board. The children too big to be carried and too small to be trusted on the terraces are left here in the village, and everyone else goes out and works together." He smiled at her. "It's hard work, but honest, that it is."

She smiled back, and watched the fields as they walked, imaging her husband out there among the men, working and laughing in the weak sunshine, bundled against the wind, keeping an eye on the older children as they learned to help. It was difficult to image Kenshin without a sword, but if his life had gone differently, he likely would never have touched a katana, never have been a hitokiri - and he would never have met her. The picture was bittersweet in the extreme: Kenshin without his shadows, but she without her husband. She stepped close to his side and tangled his fingers with hers, their joined hands hidden under his sleeve.

"Oro?"

Kaoru gave him a tight smile and shook her head, looking forward. He watched her out of the corner of his eye for a moment, then stroked his thumb across her index finger reassuringly.

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.

.

"Kenji-chan? Kenji-chan? Kenji-chan, you come out this instant!" Misao stood in the hall, hands on her hips. "Worse than your father, I swear…" Omasu returned from the opposite side of the house.

"Any luck, Misao?"

"No, none. How do Kaoru and Kamiya make this look so easy?! That kid is a tsunami."

Omasu frowned. "Nothing for it, then. He must be outside."

"Oh, when I get my hands on that kid…"

Kenji was outside. In a tree. At two years old. Omasu gasped, hand over her mouth in horror. Misao flinched.

"Kenji-chan," she said, gingerly approaching the boy, not wanting to startle him into falling. "Kenji-chan, Auntie Misao is going to come up and get you, okay?"

"Okay!" The little boy was sitting on a low branch, swinging his legs, a picture of unconcerned innocence. "Auntie likes trees?"

"Trees are nice, Kenji-chan. We shouldn't climb them, though, that's bad." She hopped onto a low branch and began inching around the trunk towards the child.

"K- Kenji's bad?" Immediately his lip began quivering, tears filling his big blue eyes.

Misao internally groaned. "No, no. You're not bad – but you shouldn't climb trees." There! Misao snagged the little boy safely under his arms and hopped down. Kenji regarded her silently for several seconds.

"Okay!" he chirped, and wiggled out of her grasp. "Food?"

Misao felt a headache coming on.

Kaoru was redressing herself as he entered and she smiled up at him. "You're in a very good mood."

"That's so," he agreed easily, arranging their dinner and handing her a pair of chopsticks. Kaoru gave him a cheeky grin, and Kenshin just shook his head at her smugness. "Soup?" He offered.

Kenshin walked quietly down the dark street, weaving between houses. During the day, there had been a patrol on the main roads of the village, but at this hour there appeared to be no one. Although the fallow fields and the gardens behind each house provided a nice line of sight anyone on guard, the village itself had no real defenses. The barns and storage sheds were unprotected and no guards were posted despite the repeated raids.

This is utterly foolish. Kenshin frowned and made his way back to the Hanari home before it became too late. He knocked on the front door quietly, and was greeted by the Hanari Iesada, Mayako's husband. They exchanged pleasantries, then Kenshin excused himself to his room. Kaoru was asleep, her dark head peeping out over the thick covers. He smiled at the sight of her, and the sound of her familiar, strangely delicate snoring, before changing into his sleeping robe. Once dressed, he placed the sakabatou at the head of the futon, and slipped under the covers with her.

She hummed and turned towards him. He curled his arms around her, nuzzling the sweetly scented spot behind her ear. "Go back to sleep, Kaoru." Pressing a kiss to his jaw, she then snuggled under his chin. Kenshin settled into a comfortable position, allowing the warm body and even breathing of his wife to lull him to sleep.

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The next morning, he and Kaoru waited two hours after full daylight, then, his hat firmly in place over his bright hair, they walked through the village to the home of the headman. Kenshin noted the indolent guards, now out and about in the daylight, as well as noting how Karou was now walking closer to him. He looked carefully at the other women going about their business and saw that they, too, were avoiding those men, eyes cast down and away. Anger began a slow smolder in his gut.

When they left the guards behind, Kenshin gently pulled his wife between two houses and kept his voice low. "Kaoru-dono, you are avoiding those guards, that you are. Why?"

She looked at the ground. "I don't really know. They're louts, I could beat them into the dirt, but something about them…" She shook her head and twisted her fingers together. He nodded and briefly clasped her hand, brushing a thumb across her knuckles.

Per Mayako's directions, the headman's house was at the northernmost point of the village. The house was grander than the others of the village, which to a certain degree one might expect, but here it seemed excessive: although barely budded, the trees to the side and back of the house were clearly ornamental, and there did not appear to be a vegetable garden, which implied very negative things about family's means of support. In response to Kenshin's polite call, a subdued woman in expensive clothing answered the door.

"Pardon me," Kenshin offered a bow, and was careful to keep his tone gentle. "This one would like to speak to the headman, that I would." His request was accompanied by his guileless rurouni smile.

The woman looked up through her lashes and her blue eyes were disturbingly dull. She nodded and gestured them inside without speaking, walking with tiny steps in her silk kimono, like a courtesan, instead of the uninhibited stride of a country woman. She showed them into a room that was grandly decorated, if just on the wrong side of gaudy.

"Please wait here, honored guests." Her voice was an emotionless murmur. "I will tell my honored husband of your arrival." She bowed too low and left.

Kaoru's eyes were huge. "What was that?!" she hissed. "That woman acted like she was fifty years out of date! And timid as a mouse, besides." Kenshin merely frowned, unease settling in his gut. It was several minutes later when the woman shuffled back to the door.

She bowed, again far too low. "Please follow me, if you would." She led the way to a back room. The house itself was beautifully decorated and unusually warm, with several hearths and a fire in each room. Really, the amount of coal being burned here was unpleasant, overwhelming the house's natural design for drawing the smoke away, and creating a quite literal 'unpleasant air' in the home. She opened a door to another slightly gaudy room and seated herself demurely behind and to the left of the man who was presumably both the headman and her husband. The headman was settled on a cushion, dressed expensively and … eating. Eating and drinking sake well after breakfast and well before lunch, at a time of day when any respectable country couple should be working.

Kaoru, with chin tilted forward and shoulders straight, knelt at Kenshin's left, their knees evenly aligned; he suppressed a smile.

"What can I do for you?" The man's words were polite enough.

"This one was passing through-"

"Former samurai, eh?" Kenshin kept the surprise off his face at the interruption. The man gestured and his wife quietly refilled his cup. "What are people like you doing on the mountain?"

Kenshin didn't quite manage to maintain his smile. The man tossed back his sake and gestured for yet more, before Kenshin regained composure and replied, "This one was passing through and heard about the village's recent difficulties-"

"Ah, good!" The man cut Kenshin off again. "Man like you needs some work, eh? You look kinda scrawny, though." He eyed Kenshin with open skepticism; Kenshin saw Kaoru's hands curl into fists. "Think you're up for slaughtering some bandits?"

Kenshin blinked. "This one does not-"

"They're a damned nuisance! We won't make our taxes at this rate!"

...Theft and the rape of village women is a 'nuisance'... "This one would be happy to assist-"

"How much?" The man wiped his mouth. "We don't have much to pay," he added. The man's beady little eyes were gleaming now; no doubt he hoped to dupe a passing warrior into eradicating the bandits for a pittance. Kenshin had no intention of taking money for such a thing, but the stupid man hadn't even let him finish a single sentence yet.

"This one would not require-"

"Good, good! We'll work out payment after, eh?"

Kenshin drew in a slow, deep breath. "Perhaps you could tell this one about the attacks, and what measures your village has taken."

"Ah, well, the raids started this fall, just after the harvest was brought in. A bunch of 'em, maybe six or ten men, came barreling across the fields and hit the storage building just down the road. By the time everybody got dressed and made it down there, the bastards had made off with as much rice and salted fish as they could carry. The next time they stole even more!"

"How often have they returned?"

"Mmm, every three or four weeks. We're almost down to millet. Millet!" The man scowled, and his wife flinched. The anger in Kenshin's gut burned brighter.

"What countermeasures have you taken?"

"A couple of the men have taken up guard around the village. This place is full of cowards, though, so only two or three who will take up arms and patrol."

"Do they patrol at night? Guard the storehouses?"

The man licked his fat lips. "They have to sleep sometime. Not reasonable for a man to work at night."

"But do the bandits not raid at night?"

The man wiped his mouth on the back of his hand. "Not reasonable." His eyes were challenging.

Kenshin gave a sharp nod and changed the subject. "How long has it been since the last raid?"

"Three weeks," the man said sullenly.

"Do they attack from any consistent direction?"

"How would I know? I can't be everywhere!" He pounded a fist on the little side table and the woman sitting behind him jumped.

"...Do you know of any other pertinent information?"

The man glared. "No."

Kenshin bowed. "Then this one shall take my leave."

The fresh, chill air outdoors was a cooling relief. Beside him, Kaoru radiated anger. "What a disgusting man!" Kenshin couldn't help but agree.

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They passed through the fields and into the surrounding trees, in the direction that Okabe had indicated yesterday.

"What are we looking for?" Kaoru said, now calm and quiet at his side.

"Any traces of the bandits' passing, old camps or anything of the like," Kenshin replied. Kaoru nodded and turned her eyes toward the ground. They completed a slow, careful circuit of the forest near the village. There were no signs of a large group of men's movement or camps, which implied two things, one, tracking was quite difficult on this mountain, and two, the bandits had at least a semi-permanent camp relatively nearby. Finding such a location would be difficult.

"I haven't seen anything, Kenshin… What should we do?" She tucked a stray hair behind her ear and looked to him with concerned eyes.

He sighed. "We should perhaps ask some of the village men if they have seen any signs. For now, though, we should keep watch at night and sleep during the day, that we should."

"Unlike those idiots?"

"Indeed."

Kaoru shaded her eyes and checked the position of the sun. "Well, we've missed lunch. We could go back to eat and nap and wait."

He smiled. "That would seem to be the best option."

The walk back was pleasant, if uncomfortably windy. "What is going on with the wind in this place? It never stops!"

"This mountain is famous for the wind, so it is. It is worse earlier in the year."

"It gets worse?"

"Aa. They have a memorial each year for the men and women that are killed by the wind capsizing their boats."

Kaoru stopped and stared, radiating disbelief. She looked adorable. "Why does anyone live here?!"

Kenshin just laughed.

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The villagers were… different as they walked through town. Kenshin was still wearing his hat, as they'd been tromping around outside for hours, but that didn't matter. He hadn't expected it to. In a village this size, everyone knew everyone else's business, and indeed, Mayako appeared to be an accomplished gossip. Gone were the suspicious side glances. Several people called out greetings. Many more smiled and bowed in passing. Not a single mother called their children away as they passed.

Kaoru's smile was especially bright.

The had indeed missed lunch, by several hours. "Hanari-dono, this one sincerely apologizes. Perhaps you might have something left over…" He said, trying large, sweet eyes.

The woman, who had only ever been the epitome of a kind and polite, if slightly distant, hostess, placed a hand on her hip and pursed her lips. "Kamiya-san, you are both so late that it's nearly dinner! And don't try that face with me, young man, I've helped raise a brood of children."

It was only three o'clock. "Ah, well, Hanari-dono, this one has agreed to help with the bandits, so I have, and my wife and this one spent the afternoon in the woods-"

"The woods! Well then, go wash your hands and faces and come back. I'll warm some soup." She shooed them out of the kitchen like naughty children.

Kaoru muffled a giggle behind her hand, and Kenshin just shook his head. They returned to the kitchen with their faces and hands washed.

"There now!" Mayako dried her hands on her apron and ladled up some soup. "Just the thing for a breezy day, eh?" She patted Kenshin's shoulder as she passed. He and Kaoru exchanged looks.

"So, you're going to take care of those bandits… It's about time someone did! You both carry swords, too." She smiled at Kaoru. "Not that many female warriors these days, more's the shame. Nice to see a young woman what can look after herself. I'd like to see them try to attack a woman like you." Her expression was vicious. "If more women could defend themselves it would give men like that a pause, I say." She cleaned the counter with more vigor than the task truly deserved.

They finished their soup, and Kaoru smiled at the woman. "Thank you very much for lunch, Hanari-san."

"We plan to sleep through dinner, Hanari-dono. If it would not be too much trouble, perhaps you could set back a bit of the evening meal."

"Going to be up and around at night, then? Good! Those idiots Yaganita-san has marching around are as useless as tits on a boar." Kenshin blinked and Kaoru pressed her lips together to avoid grinning.

Kenshin cleared his throat. "This one has noticed that the village women appear to be avoiding those men, that I have."

"Well, they would, wouldn't they? Almost as bad as the bandits, that lot."

"They make my wife uncomfortable." That still chafed him.

"Then she's a smart woman. Those louts take what they want from vendors on market day like it's their due. They say nasty things to the young girls. Cruel men only get meaner when you give them authority; they shouldn't be guards. I wouldn't trust them to guard my laundry on washing day! Only Yaganita-san would give those bullies weapons." Well. That was… forthcoming. "Ah, don't mind me. You two should go get to sleep; just remember not to get caught without your sword, young woman." Again, she shooed them out the kitchen and towards their bedroom.

Kaoru shut the shoji and grinned at her husband. "Well that was different! She was acting like we were her own children."

Kenshin shook his head and smiled, dressing for bed while Kaoru rolled out the futon.

...Every child belonged to the whole village, Okabe-dono did say…

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Kaoru loved watching Kenshin sleep. She so rarely got to do so; he fell asleep after her, and usually woke before her, too. If he looked younger than he was while awake, while sleeping, with his face relaxed and hair mussed, he looked no older than she did. He always slept on his back; they started sleeping curled up together on their sides, but he always ended the night sprawled out like this. He was sleeping much more lightly than he did at home, but still… He just looked so cute in his sleep, and so very much like their son.

It was fully dark, and with a quiet sigh, Kaoru decided to go fetch dinner. Very, very carefully she eased out of the covers.

Immediately, violet eyes flew open. "Kaoru?"

Exasperating man! "I'm just going to get dinner, Kenshin. You should rest more if you're tired."

He blinked innocently. "This one is awake now, Kaoru-dono. There is no need-"

"Kenshin! It's only to the kitchen!" She threw her half of the covers over his face. "Just rest!"

His voice was muffled under the blankets. "...Yes, Kaoru."

She rose and dressed, smiling at her husband as he emerged from under the quilts, his red hair messy and full of static.

Mayako was bustling about the kitchen, evidently making tea for her husband. "Ah, Kamiya-san, I've set back some dinner for you." She abandoned her task and took several dishes from the back of the stove, arranging them on a tray. "Here you are. Make sure your man eats, eh? Needs more meat on his bones."

Kaoru smiled and accepted the tray. "Hanari-san. You're being very, um, friendly today."

The woman beamed. "Well, I would be, wouldn't I? I knew your husband as a child, you know. Sweet boy."

Kaoru blinked. "But…"

"Well, only one boy he could be, isn't there? Shinta was always a gentle child, well behaved. A person's basic nature never changes. Mean children grow into hard men. Gentle children grow in easy-going sorts. And he's going to sort out those bandits, so all to the good, eh? And he wears that sword like he was born to it. I'd wager he knows how to use it. Now, off with you before that all gets cold." Kaoru blinked; that woman really knew how to dismiss someone.

Kenshin was brushing his shaggy hair into submission as she let herself back into their room. He looked at the tray of food in surprise as Kaoru set it down near the hearth.

"That is too much for two people, that it is."

"Hanari-san thinks you need fattening up."

"Oro?"

Kaoru laughed.

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After eating, they walked quietly through the village to the communal storage shed on the central-east side of the road.

"What now?"

"Now, we wait, that we do."

"Alright… where?"

"Normally this one would suggest the roof, that I would, but the wind is quite cold." Already Kaoru's cheeks were pink and her nose was red. "Kaoru-dono, please conceal yourself here." There was a sheltered place behind the shed behind a truly enormous tree.

"But I can't see!"

"And thus they will be unable to see you, but you will be able to hear them, that you will. This one will make a quick circuit of the village and return." Kaoru began to protest, but Kenshin shook his head. "We will alternate; it will help reduce boredom and keep the blood moving."

In Kaoru's highly considered opinion, it was the most boring night she had ever spent, tempered only by the fact that sometime before dawn, Kenshin allowed her to snuggle into his side and doze. They spent two days doing exactly the same with no results.

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Kaoru was ready to revolt; all out mutiny seemed infinitely appealing. Never in her life had she been so sedentary. She'd been practicing kata in the woods each day, but it hadn't helped. She'd re-read her two small books until she could recite every damn poem. And she'd even started her cycle three days ago; at least sex would have been something to do! Kaoru abruptly pushed aside her lunch and shot to her feet. "I can't take it anymore!"

"Oro?"

"How can you stand it?!"

"...Stand what?"

"This!" Kaoru resisted the childish urge to stomp her foot.

He just gave her an infuriatingly calm smile. "This one has stood guard many times before, Kaoru."

"Ugh!" She wanted to pull out her own hair. Or his. Pulling out Kenshin's hair seemed like a good option. "I can't do this, Kenshin!" She dropped back into a kneeling position and began pleading without shame. "Can't we do something different? Anything different?"

Kenshin's eyes softened. "Why don't we go visit Okabe-sensai today? He might need some help, that he might."

Kaoru heaved a sigh of relief. "Thank you."

The town was mostly deserted, with only a few women and a cheerful rabble of very small children out and about. Kaoru smiled at the three toddlers with dark red hair. Looking up, she noticed that there were a lot of people standing in their terraced fields, bent over.

"Kenshin, what are they doing?"

He looked up as well. "Ah, likely just preparing the fields, removing stones and roots and the like. This one has done the task, many times, for room and board. The children too big to be carried and too small to be trusted on the terraces are left here in the village, and everyone else goes out and works together." He smiled at her. "It's hard work, but honest, that it is."

She smiled back, and watched the fields as they walked, imaging her husband out there among the men, working and laughing in the weak sunshine, bundled against the wind, keeping an eye on the older children as they learned to help. It was difficult to image Kenshin without a sword, but if his life had gone differently, he likely would never have touched a katana, never have been a hitokiri - and he would never have met her. The picture was bittersweet in the extreme: Kenshin without his shadows, but she without her husband. She stepped close to his side and tangled his fingers with hers, their joined hands hidden under his sleeve.

"Oro?"

Kaoru gave him a tight smile and shook her head, looking forward. He watched her out of the corner of his eye for a moment, then stroked his thumb across her index finger reassuringly.

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"Kenji-chan? Kenji-chan? Kenji-chan, you come out this instant!" Misao stood in the hall, hands on her hips. "Worse than your father, I swear…" Omasu returned from the opposite side of the house.

"Any luck, Misao?"

"No, none. How do Kaoru and Kamiya make this look so easy?! That kid is a tsunami."

Omasu frowned. "Nothing for it, then. He must be outside."

"Oh, when I get my hands on that kid…"

Kenji was outside. In a tree. At two years old. Omasu gasped, hand over her mouth in horror. Misao flinched.

"Kenji-chan," she said, gingerly approaching the boy, not wanting to startle him into falling. "Kenji-chan, Auntie Misao is going to come up and get you, okay?"

"Okay!" The little boy was sitting on a low branch, swinging his legs, a picture of unconcerned innocence. "Auntie likes trees?"

"Trees are nice, Kenji-chan. We shouldn't climb them, though, that's bad." She hopped onto a low branch and began inching around the trunk towards the child.

"K- Kenji's bad?" Immediately his lip began quivering, tears filling his big blue eyes.

Misao internally groaned. "No, no. You're not bad – but you shouldn't climb trees." There! Misao snagged the little boy safely under his arms and hopped down. Kenji regarded her silently for several seconds.

"Okay!" he chirped, and wiggled out of her grasp. "Food?"

Misao felt a headache coming on.

A note on the last chapter: Why Kenshin didn't ask the priest about his sister: the priest merely implied that the little girl was alive when Kenshin was sold, which he already knew. Kenshin thinks that she was critically ill he left, then died afterwards, and has thought that for the last 27 years; it is as much of a fact for him as the color of the sky.