Taming Lessons - Part I - Ch 2/4
Posted: Tue Aug 05, 2003 10:35 pm
Taming Lessons - Part I - Saitou and Tokio
Disclaimer: I do not own Rurouni Kenshin or any of its characters. This is for entertainment purposes only. I am not making a profit off of this work of fiction.
Rating: G
Thankies to my rockin' beta, Jin!
Reminder: Events in the past within <>*<>*<>
Excerpt below from The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
The Little Prince:
What must I do, to tame you?
The Fox:
You must be very patient...
First you will sit down at a little distance from me--like that--in the grass.
I shall look at you out of the corner of my eye, and you will say nothing.
Words are the source of misunderstandings.
But you will sit a little closer to me, every day...
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Chapter Two:
The Kyoto Rose
<>*<>*<>
"My dear, it's high time you came out in society," Takagi Kojuurou announced plainly to his eldest daughter one beautiful mid-May morning over the breakfast table, causing the surprised girl to almost choke on her rice.
"But father!" Tokio protested when she had regained her composure after a coughing fit.
"Now, now," Kojuurou calmed her with a wave of his hand. "We have allowed you to run wild too long, Sprite. And I think I still would be perfectly happy to let you daydream the days away, my girl, but I cannot pass up an opportunity which has just presented itself. Your mother and I agree that this is for the best."
"What? What is?" Tokio asked nervously, giving her mother the glance of a frightened fawn, hoping to gain some sympathy from the soft touch, and was awarded by a quiet interjection.
"Now, Kojuurou, don't scare the poor child," Tokio's mother said gently. "Sprite, don't listen to your father. Just think of this as an adventure..."
"Will someone please tell me what is going on?" Tokio asked with some semblance of composure, although was practically bursting on the inside for the news.
"Well, it seems Matsudaria Katamori cannot do without me in Kyoto, so I've taken a house there for the rest of the summer. Unfortunately for me, the stay will be all business, but Katamori has other plans for you, my daughter. He has insisted you frequent the social gatherings of the Shinsengumi and seems very interested in seeking a match for you."
Tokio's eyes were bulging, and, not able to think of anything in response out of shock, still sat frozen as her mother continued, "This is a great honor, my child. Mr. Matsudaria has always been fond of you, and thinks of you quite as one of his own. Your father and I were almost beginning to think it was too late for you to marry, but what a surprise when Mr. Matsudaria brought up the subject last week and offered to help."
"A surprise, indeed," Tokio finally said with the hint of a grimace in her voice. "How very kind of him." The girl knew her voice was now noticeably seething and her face in a pout, but she simply could not act very ladylike upon this dreadful news. And what angered her even more was that she knew her parents were right. Her present state of blissful ignorance couldn't last forever and time was running short to find a decent husband. She, frankly, couldn't care less on the matter, but Tokio knew it would please even her overprotective parents if they knew she was well taken care of with a man of whom Matsudaria Katamori approved.
"And I wondered why such a pretty girl was not married by now," her father laughed merrily at Tokio's scowl, while her mother gave her a look of disapproval.
"Such beauty, but what bite!" Kojuurou now laughed again and patted his daughter's face endearingly. "Yes, I think we'll need all the help we can get with you!"
~*~*~
Kyoto did come to be quite a nice change of scenery from Tokio's hometown of Aizu, and the appeal of adventure had eventually claimed the best of the girl so as to overshadow the dread of the purpose of her journey.
The bustle of the busy streets delighted Tokio, and although she was often scolded for wandering the town alone, she did so anyway and had come to befriend quite a few of the vendors. It was easy for her to please the merchants with her kind smile and sweet voice, especially after a hectic day of sales, and she routinely stopped at a pastry stand just before closing time. After a day of wanderings, Tokio was always delighted to chat with the elderly owner, and in return for her attentions, received a special treat the kindly shopkeeper saved just for her.
Tokio knew this particular vendor looked forward to her visits as much as she enjoyed the wonderful red bean pastries he made for her and decided her daily chat was a noble enough cause to put her behind schedule one very important night.
"Ah, Miss Tokio, I was beginning to worry!" Mr. Tanaka welcomed his regular customer.
"But I made it!" Tokio smile at him brightly. "Although I'm afraid I can't stay for long."
"I see, I see, for you are all dressed up this evening!" Mr. Tanaka noted, admiring her pale rose kimono, embroidered with the exact flowers the fabric was colored, and completed with an intricately tied lilac obi. "It is as you should be," the old man continued, "not wasting away your time humoring an old man such as myself."
"Oh! How could you ever think of such a thing?" Tokio chided him, but knew from the merry twinkle in his eyes he was happy for her visit. She was just going to have to stay a little later than she planned, for she could not have poor old Mr. Tanaka thinking she did not want his company, although Tokio was sure she would hear about her tardiness to the first social of the Shinsengumi she was expected to attend.
~*~*~
Tokio ran as fast as she was able in the particularly extravagant kimono she wore for the special evening. She had barely managed to talk her father into letting her go alone on an errand just before the social, but she had promised him she would arrive at Katamori's home before dusk. Even she realized Kyoto was probably one of the most dangerous cities to be on the streets after dark.
The fireflies were just beginning their blinks as Tokio entered the large estate belonging to the patron of the Shinsengumi. It was not far from the pastry shop, but Tokio knew she was cutting her promise awful close and had received quite a few stares for being a woman walking alone at the late hour.
The girl was still clutching the red bean pastry tightly in her hand as she slowed from her jog and took a deep breath, trying to compose herself before entering the house. Oh, what a first impression this would make, she thought to herself, reflecting on her disheveled appearance, heavy breathing, lateness, and random bean bun.
Tokio looked around wearily at crowds of people filling the brightly lit, spacious rooms. Throngs of blue uniforms mixed with dolled up girls and important shogunate officials moved in huddles, enjoying refreshments and music. Tokio slipped through the crowds, attempting to find her parents while smoothing back some stray wisps of hair, which had escaped during her run.
She finally spotted her father talking to a Shinsengumi member and was thankful for the familiar face in the overwhelming crowd.
Rushing up to him at a pace barely deemed proper for a lady, Tokio caught the eye of her father, who immediately halted his conversation to call her to him with a look that was luckily more of relief than reprimand.
Tokio had just about reached him when the person he was speaking to chose to turn around. Saitou Hajime revealed himself to the girl just as she stood before the pair.
The wolf's eyes had the uncanny ability to freeze her upon direct contact and so Tokio paused mid hello, her thoughts jumbling despite her efforts to form them. The only thing she was aware of, besides the unreadable look of gold, was that she still had her red bean pastry in plain view, and quickly threw her arms behind her back in attempts to slip the bun in one of her sleeves before her father inquired about why a pastry was so important to be late to such a prestigious social event. He would never understand...
"Whatever will I do with you, my dear?" her father shook his head. "I was about to have Mr. Saitou send a search party out to find you."
"I apologize, father," Tokio somehow found her voice, although spoke very quietly. "You should not trouble Mr. Saitou with such things. I'm sure he has much more important things to do than come after me."
She received a slight eyebrow raise at this from the man who had fallen silent at her arrival, but her attempts at further study were interrupted by her father.
"I suppose. But really, you are not in Aizu anymore, Sprite. Kyoto is a much different place after dark, as Mr. Saitou and I were just agreeing. However, he seemed adamant that we wait until after the fireflies were out before we should begin to worry."
Tokio let out a small gasp as she looked to the man who had been eyeing her, but at her stare, his gaze shifted back to her father.
"Well, since this matter has seemed to resolve itself, if you'll excuse me," Saitou said in his deep, serious voice and quickly disappeared.
"Come, let us go to Katamori, he will be delighted to see you," Tokio's father ushered her away before Tokio could ponder any further on the wolf's observant nature.
~*~*~
Tokio found herself whisked into the world of men that evening, being escorted by Katamori throughout the party and introduced to so many government officials and Shinsengumi members she could hardly keep count. There were too many faces to remember, but Tokio did make sure she took note of the Mibu squad leaders. She had only really known of Saitou before, as he was the official contact with her father. Although Tokio had heard of the others, especially of Okita, she had never seen them face to face. And she was pleasantly surprised with the good looks of quite a few of the members.
Many of the Shinsengumi flirted with various women who had most likely been invited as entertainment. Katamori always looked after his pups and knew that even the most ruthless fighter could benefit from the touch of a woman. At least Tokio had the special privilege of being attended by the man himself, for she was not too sure she would have liked being thrown to a pack of wolves.
Though Tokio knew she was being displayed as a potential match, she found she was unexpectedly enjoying herself as the night wore on. After making the rounds with Katamori, she was handed off to Okita, who was by far the kindest looking of all the members and made her feel at ease. He was boyishly handsome, and his constant smile and easy manner made one wonder that he was one of the most feared fighters in the land. He reminded her a bit of her younger brother, for even though he was two years her elder, he had a youthful air about him, and Tokio therefore found it easier to be her free spirited self despite the formal occasion.
"You are very pretty, Miss Tokio," Okita had told her now on more than one occasion, causing her to laugh lightly, and even ruffle his hair a bit like she did with her brother. He gave her a funny little look at that, and she realized she had forgotten Okita was indeed not her brother, and she should have probably not been so friendly with him. But then the boy just laughed heartily and sighed loudly, "I wonder that you have not yet found a match!" The confession only caused Tokio to blush at his teasing and attract the other Shinsengumi around her, who most obviously shared their comrade's admiration.
Now Tokio had previously been quite oblivious to attentions of the opposite sex, although she had always received them unknowingly. With so many available members of the Shinsengumi vying for her affections that night, the girl scarcely knew how to handle herself. So she did exactly as she always had during her family's own numerous socials. Smiling sweetly, talking gently, and laughing openly, Tokio innocently caused the Wolves of Mibu to howl for her even more.
"That girl is quite a hit, eh?" a member of the third squad spoke to his quiet leader now leaning against a wall not too far from the crowd Tokio had attracted. He had been moving closer to them little by little and was finally within an earshot of the group.
Saitou stared irritably at the man trying to engage him in conversation during his mindful observations.
"Man, Okita always gets all the women. I mean, just look at him, he's obviously her favorite. That kid is something else!"
"He's simply a companion for her," Saitou spoke, causing his subordinate to glance over in surprise. "Okita's intentions, although friendly, do not go any deeper." The golden-eyed wolf now kept his eyes trained away from the group, but could tell Tokio had heard his comment and was paying attention to him, although doing her best to still seem attentive to her fan club.
"She knows this," he continued, "and therefore feels more comfortable with him, almost as if he were a brother, that is all," he observed, and smiled slightly at Tokio's dumbfounded expression he could sense out of the corner of his eye.
"Huh," the man standing beside him considered. "So you think I've still got a chance with her, then?"
Saitou turned and stared at him a moment, the previous hint of a smile gone, his face now deadpan. "Idiot," was all he uttered before fishing in his gi to produce a pack of cigarettes before heading for the door.
Tokio watched this exchange in fascination, amazed by how well Saitou could read her. She held on to Okita's arm now for support as she continued to smile prettily, although it was a bit faded. Her mind drifted far from the party and lingered on the one man who didn't seem at all interested in wooing her, his words still haunting her with their truth, causing her to remember all she was trying to forget: she would marry one of these men...her life would change forever.
<>*<>*<>
At this point in Tokio's story, the woman stopped, noting Kaoru's attempts to stifle her yawns and looked to the sky emblazoned with thousands of crisp, spring stars, knowing it had grown quite late from the moon's position in the sky.
Their teas had been finished hours ago, and Tokio, feeling a little tired herself, thought it best to suggest they go into the house and turn in for the night.
"Oh, but I must hear more of your story," Kaoru protested, her voice very close to a whine, for she always seemed to revert back into her childlike self when sleep beckoned her.
Tokio smiled. "I have been accustomed to staying up very late and rising early. I fear my overactive mind allows for little sleep, and an often cold bed leaves me prey to my ponderings. But you must be exhausted, Kaoru, surely you can wait until tomorrow."
"But Kenshin had informed us it should only take them a day to find out what they're after," Kaoru tried to sober up from her tiredness by patting her face and wiping her eyes. "So what if he and Saitou come back before you can finish? And besides, I feel it's my duty to look after you, Miss Tokio. Kenshin and Saitou both left you in my care. I had planned on staying awake long enough to feel certain you were protected. In fact, I must make another round of the grounds before we go back in the house."
Tokio was pleased with the young girl's dutiful attentions. She really was a wonderful creature, and reminded the woman very much of herself at that age. Tokio was sure if her family didn't think it was improper for girls to wield swords, she would have surely desired to learn the art of kenjutsu. As it was, she had mastered some of the more graceful martial arts when she was younger. Her father had supported her insistence that as long as she continued her wanderings, she might as well learn to defend herself so as to relieve a little worry from his mind.
Therefore, though Tokio was fairly confident that she and Kaoru would not be troubled with attackers, she was certain they--being two very capable women--could probably handle themselves if need be. Besides, whoever was out to get Hajime and the rest of their family probably would not expect her to be at the house of the former Battousai, the Shinsengumi's greatest foe. And, even if she was at the house of the Battousai, not many would even dare attack it.
The only thing that did bother the woman was that Saitou had sent her here in the first place. She was deep in thought on the subject when Kaoru approached, looking much more awake, Tokio's furrowed brow unable to escape the girl's notice.
"I've just made the rounds and everything seems fine. But is there something that is troubling you, Miss Tokio?" Kaoru asked.
"I was just thinking that Saitou has never once sent me away from home before," Tokio said as they entered the house. "In all our years of marriage, there have of course been threats from enemies of the Wolves of Mibu, but none have ever concerned Hajime enough to send me into hiding. I wonder what could be so dangerous this time?"
"Or perhaps, as you say, the wolf has grown softer over the years," Kaoru suggested. "Maybe he feels your protection cannot be risked, even though his own means little to him."
Tokio gave a sad smile at this. "Believe me Kaoru, I hope you are right."
~*~*~
It was decided that Tokio would join Kaoru on the spare futon in her room so as to provide the women with the most safety in numbers, and also because Kaoru insisted Tokio continue with her story as long as she was able.
Tokio knew that her soft voice would probably lull the girl to sleep before too long, and thus agreed to humor her. It was by now apparent that Kaoru was in desperate need of some womanly chit-chat after so long living in a house of men, and Tokio was more than willing to indulge her. She knew how lonely it could be.
As they settled down in their beddings with a lone candle illuminating the room, the light danced in Tokio's sparkling green eyes as she began once again.
"Time passed quickly for me in Kyoto. The city was lively and full of art and life, and I became great companions with Okita and a few of the other Shinsengumi during my stay. I was often invited back to Mr. Matsudaria's house for a number of lesser social gatherings, and I must say, performed very well. I had many suitors in the short time I had been there and grew rather good at sweet-talking them; however, once anything seemed like it was growing too serious I would immediately shy away. I still enjoyed my freedom a little too much to find a husband so early. I kept telling myself I had the whole summer before I had to seriously think of a match. I was actually very lucky to have any say in the matter at all, but Mr. Matsudaria insisted that he would happily arrange me with any man I would choose. He acted like an over-indulgent uncle spoiling me to a candy treat, but I always had to remember not to take him so lightly. Marriage was a serious matter, and I knew even Mr. Matsudaria's good patience would soon run out when I had not yet expressed even an interest in any of his officers by June. However, fate, it would seem, allowed me to take my time a little longer…"
<>*<>*<>
"Things are heating up. There are rumors of a grand Ishin Shisi plot to destroy the city. As Kyoto's defenders, we must not let them succeed."
Tokio heard whispers through the house of Matsudaria Katamori as she made her way through the spacious rooms hoping to find a familiar face. It was the afternoon and she had been invited over for tea, although the house seemed to be in an eerie, quiet bustle.
A servant informed her of Katamori's presence in a meeting, and so the girl waited, patiently admiring some flower arrangements before the man of the house was able to see her.
"I wouldn't come around here as much as you do," a deep voice cut into Tokio's reveries. Her hand jumped away from the blossom she was touching, and she turned to the tall figure propped in the doorway.
Tokio gave Saitou Hajime a puzzled looked, which caused the man to move away from the door and step into the room so that he was still a distance away from her, yet ever so closer than before. "The Shinsengumi have many enemies, now more than ever."
Tokio was still confused by the man before her, but she had been in his presence long enough now not to be totally floored every time he was near. She was quick to avoid his eyes so as not to be caught by his powerful gaze, and her voice remained clear as she spoke to him.
"I am well aware of that fact, Mr. Saitou," Tokio said. "But I'm afraid I have such little choice in the matter, that I've resolved my faithfulness to the Shinsengumi long ago."
She heard something along the lines of a "hrumph" before Saitou again questioned her.
"You do not worry, then, that you may be targeted?" he asked, taking a step towards her.
This, also, Tokio learned was a custom of the man. At gatherings, he often did not even speak to her, yet would get considerably closer to her throughout the course of the event. He seemed to have no problem taking one step at a time, moving so slowly and so precisely that a person might almost miss the premeditated ways of his actions. But Tokio was always aware of Saitou's whereabouts, and it always amused her how his wordless nonchalance was contradicted by his obvious advances towards her through his movements. He was by far the most mysterious and intriguing of the Shinsengumi, yet always just out of reach.
"I have always known father's work may put me in danger," Tokio said coolly.
"Yet you continue to wander like an idiot all alone," Saitou pointed out.
"I thought I remember you once saying you didn't want to reprimand me about that," Tokio countered, and trained her face not to smirk. For some reason, being called an idiot sparked off the flame in the girl's usually calm personality. Perhaps it was a reflex, as she was often chided by her siblings, but Tokio, finally comfortable in Kamatori's home and around the Shinsengumi, did not feel like acting as ladylike as she usually would. And when she was awarded with a little change in Saitou's usually emotionless face, Tokio found she rather enjoyed teasing the serious man and was determined not to let his displeased expression fluster her.
Saitou glided closer to the girl, eyes engaged in deep study. "You may think because you are a woman, you are safe. But the Ishin dogs have no mercy for even pets of wolves."
Tactless--absolutely clueless--this Saitou was when talking to women, Tokio thought as her mouth dropped open at the comment. "Pet!?" was all she could exclaim angrily as laughter was heard from the entrance to the room.
Even though Tokio knew they had an audience, the girl's emerald eyes were on fire as she narrowed them toward the stony face of Saitou, who attempted to win this argument with her through a staring match. When neither backed down, it took an obvious throat-clear from Okita to break the intense eye contact.
Katamori and Okita stood in the doorway observing the pair. Upon seeing the older man and her favorite companion, Tokio sighed to compose her herself and smiled merrily, rushing up quickly towards the pair as Saitou followed close behind, though his steps seemed effortless to match her speed.
"You must excuse Mr. Saitou," Okita said to Tokio with that permanent smile gracing his features. "He's a little rough around the edges, although he does mean well."
Tokio half expected Saitou to refute the boy's statement, saying he didn't give a damn about her, but he remained silent, frowning sourly, and was now looking away from the group to stare upwards towards the ceiling.
Katamori gave a chuckle. "Right you are, right you are. But I can't help agreeing with Saitou's less than eloquent admonishment. Miss Tokio, I fear you and your family may be in grave danger. The Inshin Shishi are determined to slay important officials of the shogunate. I have heard you are an infamous wanderer, but in concern for your safety, I must insist that you be more careful and certainly not go out after dark. In fact, I will be sending more guards to your father's house this very evening, and I think it is best if you have a bodyguard during your days here."
Katamori's statement struck the girl with worry. It was true she knew the risks of being the daughter of an important shogunate official, but never before had she needed a bodyguard. The times of revolution were already upon them. Tokio prayed she was on the right side, but knew that much blood would be spilled regardless of who won.
Her face betrayed a little too much of what she felt and Okita lay a gentle hand on her shoulder. "We'll protect you, Miss Tokio. Make no mistake about that."
"Indeed, Miss Tokio. I want one of my best men to keep an eye on you, as you are our beautiful Kyoto Rose," Katamori said, taking her hand in his. "I must agree with Saitou that you stay away from this wolf's lair until things quiet down, as it will be much different from the happy gathering place during your first visits here. And since Saitou was so concerned for your safety and often works with your father, I think he is the best man suited for protecting you."
This got Saitou's attention and he swung his head around to examine his new charge with an unreadable, though hard stare, then turned to face his patron. Tokio herself almost groaned openly, but dared not disagree with the man who had already helped her so much.
Okita enjoyed the reactions of both immensely and laughed before escorting Tokio away, saying something about there being flower arrangements in another room she would enjoy.
However, she could still hear the fading conversation of Katamori and Saitou through the thin walls of the house.
"You cannot be serious," Saitou said plainly.
"Oh, I am very serious," Katamori countered. "Takagi is one of my greatest associates, I will not have any harm come to his most precious daughter."
"I am the leader of the third squad, how can I be a babysitter as well?"
"You will have time enough. All I'm asking is you go out with her for a few hours each day and keep an eye on her any other time you can spare. Hopefully, that will satisfy her free spirit enough. I think she now realizes the extent of her situation. She will not give you any trouble. Besides, she is hardly a baby. You, Saitou, are barely two years older!"
"She acts younger," Saitou said irritably.
"And you act as though you're my age. Perhaps this will be good for you," Katamori said lightly.
Tokio was not able to hear the rest of the conversation, but she had heard enough. It was obvious Saitou saw her as a bother. He would now probably act even colder to her than before.
She sighed openly, forgetting Okita was near and almost as observant as Saitou.
"Everything will work out, Miss Tokio, you'll see. You are very lucky to have Saitou looking after you. He's really one of the best. And he has seemed to take an interest in you--well, as much as can be said for Saitou. You're actually one of the few women I think he knows exists. That's really something!"
"I'm flattered, I'm sure," Tokio said a bit more crossly than she meant, causing Okita to laugh louder than normal.
Okita looked at the girl then, her beautiful jade eyes bright with fire, and the boy's tinkering laughter suddenly stopped. "Green eyes..." he mumbled so softly that the girl could barely hear, "with the scent of rose..."
"Okita?" Tokio questioned.
The young man's pensive expression slowly grew into a wide grin, and a knowing look appeared in his eyes, which held a mischievous glint.
"You're different from all the other girls that usually come around here, Miss Tokio," Okita said after a while. "It's no wonder you've caught Saitou's eye."
"You talk too much," said a familiar displeased tone. Saitou stared down at Okita, but his face was not as serious as it could have been. "Play time's over, I've got to get Takagi's girl back to her house before dark."
Okita patted Tokio's arm as if to say "good luck" and smiled brightly at them both before their departure. "Be nice!" he called after them, and neither was quite sure to whom he was referring.
~*~*~
The journey had so far been silent, Tokio obediently following after her brooding guard until a thought struck her.
"Oh my gosh! I've got to stop somewhere!" Tokio said suddenly, and without thinking, reached to the arm of the man in front of her.
The touch immediately caused Saitou to stiffen, before turning back towards her. He caught Tokio's own surprised blush at her actions before she quickly pulled her hand away.
"What did you say?" he asked, staring at her with an intimidating glare.
Mustering up her courage, Tokio continued. "Please, I always stop at Mr. Tanaka's bakery before closing time. He will be worried if I don't show up."
"You've got to be joking," Saitou said, his voice still serious and low.
"Look, let's just go this one time so I may at least tell him not to expect me back for a while, if that's what you want."
Saitoh pondered the statement and then seemed to reluctantly agree. He followed her with a stare which must have been harsher than usual, for the people eyeing Tokio and the wolf behind her as they passed looked very, very afraid.
When they arrived at the shop, Tokio looked at Saitou expectantly, as if inviting him in, but he stubbornly leaned against the outside of the wall next to the doorframe and closed his eyes as he crossed his arms.
She huffed at his ridiculous behavior and was almost certain she saw him smirk before she ran in to talk to Mr. Tanaka.
Knowing Saitou's patience would certainly be tested if she stayed too long, Tokio only took a few minutes before she was back at the wolf's side, now looking satisfied with a wonderful red bean pastry in hand.
"Mr. Tanaka said he would have saved two, but he didn't know I was bringing a friend. I'll split it with you, if you want," Tokio said to Saitou. The girl was now in much better spirits, as she always was after receiving her beloved pastry.
Saitou just sort of blinked at her for a moment in response, and, deciding whatever it was he might have said was not worth the words, started back on the road. She was sure she heard him mumble "idiot" as they continued on their journey, but Tokio only whispered, "I wouldn't be so sure," as she happily munched on her bean bun.
The regulars of the Kyoto streets were in for quite a sight as a beautiful girl with a childlike air practically skipped behind a grimacing Shinsengumi member, whose eyes held somewhat of a softer light than his face would betray.
<>*<>*<>
Tokio stopped her tale as she could now hear the even breaths of a sleeping Kaoru. She silently thanked the younger girl for allowing her to bring back so many memories. Tokio's past visions of Hajime were her constant companions for the times his job took him away. It was so easy to lose the precious moments if she did not keep them fresh in her mind.
The women was now quite exhausted and moved to blow out the candle, which had dwindled considerably during her story. She watched the golden glow of the flickering flame for a time. It reminded her of those intense eyes that always seemed to melt her into the honey of their color.
"Be safe, my husband," Tokio whispered aloud before finally blowing out the candle, hoping her prayer would be whisked away to him in the darkness.
~*~*~
Author's Notes for Ch. 2:
-I made Katamori a very friendly older man (though still in his thirties) for this story when dealing with Tokio. I have no idea what he was like in real life, but I imagine that he would act differently towards a sweet young girl than with his associates and the Shinsengumi; therefore I took the liberty of making him a really nice guy in Tokio's point of view.
-Okita Soujo was really fun to throw in, although I admit I don't know that much about him, so my apologies to all the Okita fans if he seems really out of character. He just always seemed to have a smile on his face during short RK scenes I've seen him in. I'd also like to note here that the Okita in my story might be a little different from the Okita in the Kenhin OVAs. Okita looks waaaay young there and one could easily get the impression that Saitou is Okita's superior if you didn't know Okita was the leader of the first squad. My Okita still respects Saitou (even calling him Mr. Saitou though they are the same age), but I imagine both men are on a bit more equal footing, with Saitou acting just a tad more respectful, as you'll see later.
-And just to make sure everyone is on the same page, the date where Tokio left off her story was about June 1, 1864. The Ikedaya Affair will be happening on June 5th!
Thanks for reading!!!
Disclaimer: I do not own Rurouni Kenshin or any of its characters. This is for entertainment purposes only. I am not making a profit off of this work of fiction.
Rating: G
Thankies to my rockin' beta, Jin!
Reminder: Events in the past within <>*<>*<>
Excerpt below from The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
The Little Prince:
What must I do, to tame you?
The Fox:
You must be very patient...
First you will sit down at a little distance from me--like that--in the grass.
I shall look at you out of the corner of my eye, and you will say nothing.
Words are the source of misunderstandings.
But you will sit a little closer to me, every day...
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Chapter Two:
The Kyoto Rose
<>*<>*<>
"My dear, it's high time you came out in society," Takagi Kojuurou announced plainly to his eldest daughter one beautiful mid-May morning over the breakfast table, causing the surprised girl to almost choke on her rice.
"But father!" Tokio protested when she had regained her composure after a coughing fit.
"Now, now," Kojuurou calmed her with a wave of his hand. "We have allowed you to run wild too long, Sprite. And I think I still would be perfectly happy to let you daydream the days away, my girl, but I cannot pass up an opportunity which has just presented itself. Your mother and I agree that this is for the best."
"What? What is?" Tokio asked nervously, giving her mother the glance of a frightened fawn, hoping to gain some sympathy from the soft touch, and was awarded by a quiet interjection.
"Now, Kojuurou, don't scare the poor child," Tokio's mother said gently. "Sprite, don't listen to your father. Just think of this as an adventure..."
"Will someone please tell me what is going on?" Tokio asked with some semblance of composure, although was practically bursting on the inside for the news.
"Well, it seems Matsudaria Katamori cannot do without me in Kyoto, so I've taken a house there for the rest of the summer. Unfortunately for me, the stay will be all business, but Katamori has other plans for you, my daughter. He has insisted you frequent the social gatherings of the Shinsengumi and seems very interested in seeking a match for you."
Tokio's eyes were bulging, and, not able to think of anything in response out of shock, still sat frozen as her mother continued, "This is a great honor, my child. Mr. Matsudaria has always been fond of you, and thinks of you quite as one of his own. Your father and I were almost beginning to think it was too late for you to marry, but what a surprise when Mr. Matsudaria brought up the subject last week and offered to help."
"A surprise, indeed," Tokio finally said with the hint of a grimace in her voice. "How very kind of him." The girl knew her voice was now noticeably seething and her face in a pout, but she simply could not act very ladylike upon this dreadful news. And what angered her even more was that she knew her parents were right. Her present state of blissful ignorance couldn't last forever and time was running short to find a decent husband. She, frankly, couldn't care less on the matter, but Tokio knew it would please even her overprotective parents if they knew she was well taken care of with a man of whom Matsudaria Katamori approved.
"And I wondered why such a pretty girl was not married by now," her father laughed merrily at Tokio's scowl, while her mother gave her a look of disapproval.
"Such beauty, but what bite!" Kojuurou now laughed again and patted his daughter's face endearingly. "Yes, I think we'll need all the help we can get with you!"
~*~*~
Kyoto did come to be quite a nice change of scenery from Tokio's hometown of Aizu, and the appeal of adventure had eventually claimed the best of the girl so as to overshadow the dread of the purpose of her journey.
The bustle of the busy streets delighted Tokio, and although she was often scolded for wandering the town alone, she did so anyway and had come to befriend quite a few of the vendors. It was easy for her to please the merchants with her kind smile and sweet voice, especially after a hectic day of sales, and she routinely stopped at a pastry stand just before closing time. After a day of wanderings, Tokio was always delighted to chat with the elderly owner, and in return for her attentions, received a special treat the kindly shopkeeper saved just for her.
Tokio knew this particular vendor looked forward to her visits as much as she enjoyed the wonderful red bean pastries he made for her and decided her daily chat was a noble enough cause to put her behind schedule one very important night.
"Ah, Miss Tokio, I was beginning to worry!" Mr. Tanaka welcomed his regular customer.
"But I made it!" Tokio smile at him brightly. "Although I'm afraid I can't stay for long."
"I see, I see, for you are all dressed up this evening!" Mr. Tanaka noted, admiring her pale rose kimono, embroidered with the exact flowers the fabric was colored, and completed with an intricately tied lilac obi. "It is as you should be," the old man continued, "not wasting away your time humoring an old man such as myself."
"Oh! How could you ever think of such a thing?" Tokio chided him, but knew from the merry twinkle in his eyes he was happy for her visit. She was just going to have to stay a little later than she planned, for she could not have poor old Mr. Tanaka thinking she did not want his company, although Tokio was sure she would hear about her tardiness to the first social of the Shinsengumi she was expected to attend.
~*~*~
Tokio ran as fast as she was able in the particularly extravagant kimono she wore for the special evening. She had barely managed to talk her father into letting her go alone on an errand just before the social, but she had promised him she would arrive at Katamori's home before dusk. Even she realized Kyoto was probably one of the most dangerous cities to be on the streets after dark.
The fireflies were just beginning their blinks as Tokio entered the large estate belonging to the patron of the Shinsengumi. It was not far from the pastry shop, but Tokio knew she was cutting her promise awful close and had received quite a few stares for being a woman walking alone at the late hour.
The girl was still clutching the red bean pastry tightly in her hand as she slowed from her jog and took a deep breath, trying to compose herself before entering the house. Oh, what a first impression this would make, she thought to herself, reflecting on her disheveled appearance, heavy breathing, lateness, and random bean bun.
Tokio looked around wearily at crowds of people filling the brightly lit, spacious rooms. Throngs of blue uniforms mixed with dolled up girls and important shogunate officials moved in huddles, enjoying refreshments and music. Tokio slipped through the crowds, attempting to find her parents while smoothing back some stray wisps of hair, which had escaped during her run.
She finally spotted her father talking to a Shinsengumi member and was thankful for the familiar face in the overwhelming crowd.
Rushing up to him at a pace barely deemed proper for a lady, Tokio caught the eye of her father, who immediately halted his conversation to call her to him with a look that was luckily more of relief than reprimand.
Tokio had just about reached him when the person he was speaking to chose to turn around. Saitou Hajime revealed himself to the girl just as she stood before the pair.
The wolf's eyes had the uncanny ability to freeze her upon direct contact and so Tokio paused mid hello, her thoughts jumbling despite her efforts to form them. The only thing she was aware of, besides the unreadable look of gold, was that she still had her red bean pastry in plain view, and quickly threw her arms behind her back in attempts to slip the bun in one of her sleeves before her father inquired about why a pastry was so important to be late to such a prestigious social event. He would never understand...
"Whatever will I do with you, my dear?" her father shook his head. "I was about to have Mr. Saitou send a search party out to find you."
"I apologize, father," Tokio somehow found her voice, although spoke very quietly. "You should not trouble Mr. Saitou with such things. I'm sure he has much more important things to do than come after me."
She received a slight eyebrow raise at this from the man who had fallen silent at her arrival, but her attempts at further study were interrupted by her father.
"I suppose. But really, you are not in Aizu anymore, Sprite. Kyoto is a much different place after dark, as Mr. Saitou and I were just agreeing. However, he seemed adamant that we wait until after the fireflies were out before we should begin to worry."
Tokio let out a small gasp as she looked to the man who had been eyeing her, but at her stare, his gaze shifted back to her father.
"Well, since this matter has seemed to resolve itself, if you'll excuse me," Saitou said in his deep, serious voice and quickly disappeared.
"Come, let us go to Katamori, he will be delighted to see you," Tokio's father ushered her away before Tokio could ponder any further on the wolf's observant nature.
~*~*~
Tokio found herself whisked into the world of men that evening, being escorted by Katamori throughout the party and introduced to so many government officials and Shinsengumi members she could hardly keep count. There were too many faces to remember, but Tokio did make sure she took note of the Mibu squad leaders. She had only really known of Saitou before, as he was the official contact with her father. Although Tokio had heard of the others, especially of Okita, she had never seen them face to face. And she was pleasantly surprised with the good looks of quite a few of the members.
Many of the Shinsengumi flirted with various women who had most likely been invited as entertainment. Katamori always looked after his pups and knew that even the most ruthless fighter could benefit from the touch of a woman. At least Tokio had the special privilege of being attended by the man himself, for she was not too sure she would have liked being thrown to a pack of wolves.
Though Tokio knew she was being displayed as a potential match, she found she was unexpectedly enjoying herself as the night wore on. After making the rounds with Katamori, she was handed off to Okita, who was by far the kindest looking of all the members and made her feel at ease. He was boyishly handsome, and his constant smile and easy manner made one wonder that he was one of the most feared fighters in the land. He reminded her a bit of her younger brother, for even though he was two years her elder, he had a youthful air about him, and Tokio therefore found it easier to be her free spirited self despite the formal occasion.
"You are very pretty, Miss Tokio," Okita had told her now on more than one occasion, causing her to laugh lightly, and even ruffle his hair a bit like she did with her brother. He gave her a funny little look at that, and she realized she had forgotten Okita was indeed not her brother, and she should have probably not been so friendly with him. But then the boy just laughed heartily and sighed loudly, "I wonder that you have not yet found a match!" The confession only caused Tokio to blush at his teasing and attract the other Shinsengumi around her, who most obviously shared their comrade's admiration.
Now Tokio had previously been quite oblivious to attentions of the opposite sex, although she had always received them unknowingly. With so many available members of the Shinsengumi vying for her affections that night, the girl scarcely knew how to handle herself. So she did exactly as she always had during her family's own numerous socials. Smiling sweetly, talking gently, and laughing openly, Tokio innocently caused the Wolves of Mibu to howl for her even more.
"That girl is quite a hit, eh?" a member of the third squad spoke to his quiet leader now leaning against a wall not too far from the crowd Tokio had attracted. He had been moving closer to them little by little and was finally within an earshot of the group.
Saitou stared irritably at the man trying to engage him in conversation during his mindful observations.
"Man, Okita always gets all the women. I mean, just look at him, he's obviously her favorite. That kid is something else!"
"He's simply a companion for her," Saitou spoke, causing his subordinate to glance over in surprise. "Okita's intentions, although friendly, do not go any deeper." The golden-eyed wolf now kept his eyes trained away from the group, but could tell Tokio had heard his comment and was paying attention to him, although doing her best to still seem attentive to her fan club.
"She knows this," he continued, "and therefore feels more comfortable with him, almost as if he were a brother, that is all," he observed, and smiled slightly at Tokio's dumbfounded expression he could sense out of the corner of his eye.
"Huh," the man standing beside him considered. "So you think I've still got a chance with her, then?"
Saitou turned and stared at him a moment, the previous hint of a smile gone, his face now deadpan. "Idiot," was all he uttered before fishing in his gi to produce a pack of cigarettes before heading for the door.
Tokio watched this exchange in fascination, amazed by how well Saitou could read her. She held on to Okita's arm now for support as she continued to smile prettily, although it was a bit faded. Her mind drifted far from the party and lingered on the one man who didn't seem at all interested in wooing her, his words still haunting her with their truth, causing her to remember all she was trying to forget: she would marry one of these men...her life would change forever.
<>*<>*<>
At this point in Tokio's story, the woman stopped, noting Kaoru's attempts to stifle her yawns and looked to the sky emblazoned with thousands of crisp, spring stars, knowing it had grown quite late from the moon's position in the sky.
Their teas had been finished hours ago, and Tokio, feeling a little tired herself, thought it best to suggest they go into the house and turn in for the night.
"Oh, but I must hear more of your story," Kaoru protested, her voice very close to a whine, for she always seemed to revert back into her childlike self when sleep beckoned her.
Tokio smiled. "I have been accustomed to staying up very late and rising early. I fear my overactive mind allows for little sleep, and an often cold bed leaves me prey to my ponderings. But you must be exhausted, Kaoru, surely you can wait until tomorrow."
"But Kenshin had informed us it should only take them a day to find out what they're after," Kaoru tried to sober up from her tiredness by patting her face and wiping her eyes. "So what if he and Saitou come back before you can finish? And besides, I feel it's my duty to look after you, Miss Tokio. Kenshin and Saitou both left you in my care. I had planned on staying awake long enough to feel certain you were protected. In fact, I must make another round of the grounds before we go back in the house."
Tokio was pleased with the young girl's dutiful attentions. She really was a wonderful creature, and reminded the woman very much of herself at that age. Tokio was sure if her family didn't think it was improper for girls to wield swords, she would have surely desired to learn the art of kenjutsu. As it was, she had mastered some of the more graceful martial arts when she was younger. Her father had supported her insistence that as long as she continued her wanderings, she might as well learn to defend herself so as to relieve a little worry from his mind.
Therefore, though Tokio was fairly confident that she and Kaoru would not be troubled with attackers, she was certain they--being two very capable women--could probably handle themselves if need be. Besides, whoever was out to get Hajime and the rest of their family probably would not expect her to be at the house of the former Battousai, the Shinsengumi's greatest foe. And, even if she was at the house of the Battousai, not many would even dare attack it.
The only thing that did bother the woman was that Saitou had sent her here in the first place. She was deep in thought on the subject when Kaoru approached, looking much more awake, Tokio's furrowed brow unable to escape the girl's notice.
"I've just made the rounds and everything seems fine. But is there something that is troubling you, Miss Tokio?" Kaoru asked.
"I was just thinking that Saitou has never once sent me away from home before," Tokio said as they entered the house. "In all our years of marriage, there have of course been threats from enemies of the Wolves of Mibu, but none have ever concerned Hajime enough to send me into hiding. I wonder what could be so dangerous this time?"
"Or perhaps, as you say, the wolf has grown softer over the years," Kaoru suggested. "Maybe he feels your protection cannot be risked, even though his own means little to him."
Tokio gave a sad smile at this. "Believe me Kaoru, I hope you are right."
~*~*~
It was decided that Tokio would join Kaoru on the spare futon in her room so as to provide the women with the most safety in numbers, and also because Kaoru insisted Tokio continue with her story as long as she was able.
Tokio knew that her soft voice would probably lull the girl to sleep before too long, and thus agreed to humor her. It was by now apparent that Kaoru was in desperate need of some womanly chit-chat after so long living in a house of men, and Tokio was more than willing to indulge her. She knew how lonely it could be.
As they settled down in their beddings with a lone candle illuminating the room, the light danced in Tokio's sparkling green eyes as she began once again.
"Time passed quickly for me in Kyoto. The city was lively and full of art and life, and I became great companions with Okita and a few of the other Shinsengumi during my stay. I was often invited back to Mr. Matsudaria's house for a number of lesser social gatherings, and I must say, performed very well. I had many suitors in the short time I had been there and grew rather good at sweet-talking them; however, once anything seemed like it was growing too serious I would immediately shy away. I still enjoyed my freedom a little too much to find a husband so early. I kept telling myself I had the whole summer before I had to seriously think of a match. I was actually very lucky to have any say in the matter at all, but Mr. Matsudaria insisted that he would happily arrange me with any man I would choose. He acted like an over-indulgent uncle spoiling me to a candy treat, but I always had to remember not to take him so lightly. Marriage was a serious matter, and I knew even Mr. Matsudaria's good patience would soon run out when I had not yet expressed even an interest in any of his officers by June. However, fate, it would seem, allowed me to take my time a little longer…"
<>*<>*<>
"Things are heating up. There are rumors of a grand Ishin Shisi plot to destroy the city. As Kyoto's defenders, we must not let them succeed."
Tokio heard whispers through the house of Matsudaria Katamori as she made her way through the spacious rooms hoping to find a familiar face. It was the afternoon and she had been invited over for tea, although the house seemed to be in an eerie, quiet bustle.
A servant informed her of Katamori's presence in a meeting, and so the girl waited, patiently admiring some flower arrangements before the man of the house was able to see her.
"I wouldn't come around here as much as you do," a deep voice cut into Tokio's reveries. Her hand jumped away from the blossom she was touching, and she turned to the tall figure propped in the doorway.
Tokio gave Saitou Hajime a puzzled looked, which caused the man to move away from the door and step into the room so that he was still a distance away from her, yet ever so closer than before. "The Shinsengumi have many enemies, now more than ever."
Tokio was still confused by the man before her, but she had been in his presence long enough now not to be totally floored every time he was near. She was quick to avoid his eyes so as not to be caught by his powerful gaze, and her voice remained clear as she spoke to him.
"I am well aware of that fact, Mr. Saitou," Tokio said. "But I'm afraid I have such little choice in the matter, that I've resolved my faithfulness to the Shinsengumi long ago."
She heard something along the lines of a "hrumph" before Saitou again questioned her.
"You do not worry, then, that you may be targeted?" he asked, taking a step towards her.
This, also, Tokio learned was a custom of the man. At gatherings, he often did not even speak to her, yet would get considerably closer to her throughout the course of the event. He seemed to have no problem taking one step at a time, moving so slowly and so precisely that a person might almost miss the premeditated ways of his actions. But Tokio was always aware of Saitou's whereabouts, and it always amused her how his wordless nonchalance was contradicted by his obvious advances towards her through his movements. He was by far the most mysterious and intriguing of the Shinsengumi, yet always just out of reach.
"I have always known father's work may put me in danger," Tokio said coolly.
"Yet you continue to wander like an idiot all alone," Saitou pointed out.
"I thought I remember you once saying you didn't want to reprimand me about that," Tokio countered, and trained her face not to smirk. For some reason, being called an idiot sparked off the flame in the girl's usually calm personality. Perhaps it was a reflex, as she was often chided by her siblings, but Tokio, finally comfortable in Kamatori's home and around the Shinsengumi, did not feel like acting as ladylike as she usually would. And when she was awarded with a little change in Saitou's usually emotionless face, Tokio found she rather enjoyed teasing the serious man and was determined not to let his displeased expression fluster her.
Saitou glided closer to the girl, eyes engaged in deep study. "You may think because you are a woman, you are safe. But the Ishin dogs have no mercy for even pets of wolves."
Tactless--absolutely clueless--this Saitou was when talking to women, Tokio thought as her mouth dropped open at the comment. "Pet!?" was all she could exclaim angrily as laughter was heard from the entrance to the room.
Even though Tokio knew they had an audience, the girl's emerald eyes were on fire as she narrowed them toward the stony face of Saitou, who attempted to win this argument with her through a staring match. When neither backed down, it took an obvious throat-clear from Okita to break the intense eye contact.
Katamori and Okita stood in the doorway observing the pair. Upon seeing the older man and her favorite companion, Tokio sighed to compose her herself and smiled merrily, rushing up quickly towards the pair as Saitou followed close behind, though his steps seemed effortless to match her speed.
"You must excuse Mr. Saitou," Okita said to Tokio with that permanent smile gracing his features. "He's a little rough around the edges, although he does mean well."
Tokio half expected Saitou to refute the boy's statement, saying he didn't give a damn about her, but he remained silent, frowning sourly, and was now looking away from the group to stare upwards towards the ceiling.
Katamori gave a chuckle. "Right you are, right you are. But I can't help agreeing with Saitou's less than eloquent admonishment. Miss Tokio, I fear you and your family may be in grave danger. The Inshin Shishi are determined to slay important officials of the shogunate. I have heard you are an infamous wanderer, but in concern for your safety, I must insist that you be more careful and certainly not go out after dark. In fact, I will be sending more guards to your father's house this very evening, and I think it is best if you have a bodyguard during your days here."
Katamori's statement struck the girl with worry. It was true she knew the risks of being the daughter of an important shogunate official, but never before had she needed a bodyguard. The times of revolution were already upon them. Tokio prayed she was on the right side, but knew that much blood would be spilled regardless of who won.
Her face betrayed a little too much of what she felt and Okita lay a gentle hand on her shoulder. "We'll protect you, Miss Tokio. Make no mistake about that."
"Indeed, Miss Tokio. I want one of my best men to keep an eye on you, as you are our beautiful Kyoto Rose," Katamori said, taking her hand in his. "I must agree with Saitou that you stay away from this wolf's lair until things quiet down, as it will be much different from the happy gathering place during your first visits here. And since Saitou was so concerned for your safety and often works with your father, I think he is the best man suited for protecting you."
This got Saitou's attention and he swung his head around to examine his new charge with an unreadable, though hard stare, then turned to face his patron. Tokio herself almost groaned openly, but dared not disagree with the man who had already helped her so much.
Okita enjoyed the reactions of both immensely and laughed before escorting Tokio away, saying something about there being flower arrangements in another room she would enjoy.
However, she could still hear the fading conversation of Katamori and Saitou through the thin walls of the house.
"You cannot be serious," Saitou said plainly.
"Oh, I am very serious," Katamori countered. "Takagi is one of my greatest associates, I will not have any harm come to his most precious daughter."
"I am the leader of the third squad, how can I be a babysitter as well?"
"You will have time enough. All I'm asking is you go out with her for a few hours each day and keep an eye on her any other time you can spare. Hopefully, that will satisfy her free spirit enough. I think she now realizes the extent of her situation. She will not give you any trouble. Besides, she is hardly a baby. You, Saitou, are barely two years older!"
"She acts younger," Saitou said irritably.
"And you act as though you're my age. Perhaps this will be good for you," Katamori said lightly.
Tokio was not able to hear the rest of the conversation, but she had heard enough. It was obvious Saitou saw her as a bother. He would now probably act even colder to her than before.
She sighed openly, forgetting Okita was near and almost as observant as Saitou.
"Everything will work out, Miss Tokio, you'll see. You are very lucky to have Saitou looking after you. He's really one of the best. And he has seemed to take an interest in you--well, as much as can be said for Saitou. You're actually one of the few women I think he knows exists. That's really something!"
"I'm flattered, I'm sure," Tokio said a bit more crossly than she meant, causing Okita to laugh louder than normal.
Okita looked at the girl then, her beautiful jade eyes bright with fire, and the boy's tinkering laughter suddenly stopped. "Green eyes..." he mumbled so softly that the girl could barely hear, "with the scent of rose..."
"Okita?" Tokio questioned.
The young man's pensive expression slowly grew into a wide grin, and a knowing look appeared in his eyes, which held a mischievous glint.
"You're different from all the other girls that usually come around here, Miss Tokio," Okita said after a while. "It's no wonder you've caught Saitou's eye."
"You talk too much," said a familiar displeased tone. Saitou stared down at Okita, but his face was not as serious as it could have been. "Play time's over, I've got to get Takagi's girl back to her house before dark."
Okita patted Tokio's arm as if to say "good luck" and smiled brightly at them both before their departure. "Be nice!" he called after them, and neither was quite sure to whom he was referring.
~*~*~
The journey had so far been silent, Tokio obediently following after her brooding guard until a thought struck her.
"Oh my gosh! I've got to stop somewhere!" Tokio said suddenly, and without thinking, reached to the arm of the man in front of her.
The touch immediately caused Saitou to stiffen, before turning back towards her. He caught Tokio's own surprised blush at her actions before she quickly pulled her hand away.
"What did you say?" he asked, staring at her with an intimidating glare.
Mustering up her courage, Tokio continued. "Please, I always stop at Mr. Tanaka's bakery before closing time. He will be worried if I don't show up."
"You've got to be joking," Saitou said, his voice still serious and low.
"Look, let's just go this one time so I may at least tell him not to expect me back for a while, if that's what you want."
Saitoh pondered the statement and then seemed to reluctantly agree. He followed her with a stare which must have been harsher than usual, for the people eyeing Tokio and the wolf behind her as they passed looked very, very afraid.
When they arrived at the shop, Tokio looked at Saitou expectantly, as if inviting him in, but he stubbornly leaned against the outside of the wall next to the doorframe and closed his eyes as he crossed his arms.
She huffed at his ridiculous behavior and was almost certain she saw him smirk before she ran in to talk to Mr. Tanaka.
Knowing Saitou's patience would certainly be tested if she stayed too long, Tokio only took a few minutes before she was back at the wolf's side, now looking satisfied with a wonderful red bean pastry in hand.
"Mr. Tanaka said he would have saved two, but he didn't know I was bringing a friend. I'll split it with you, if you want," Tokio said to Saitou. The girl was now in much better spirits, as she always was after receiving her beloved pastry.
Saitou just sort of blinked at her for a moment in response, and, deciding whatever it was he might have said was not worth the words, started back on the road. She was sure she heard him mumble "idiot" as they continued on their journey, but Tokio only whispered, "I wouldn't be so sure," as she happily munched on her bean bun.
The regulars of the Kyoto streets were in for quite a sight as a beautiful girl with a childlike air practically skipped behind a grimacing Shinsengumi member, whose eyes held somewhat of a softer light than his face would betray.
<>*<>*<>
Tokio stopped her tale as she could now hear the even breaths of a sleeping Kaoru. She silently thanked the younger girl for allowing her to bring back so many memories. Tokio's past visions of Hajime were her constant companions for the times his job took him away. It was so easy to lose the precious moments if she did not keep them fresh in her mind.
The women was now quite exhausted and moved to blow out the candle, which had dwindled considerably during her story. She watched the golden glow of the flickering flame for a time. It reminded her of those intense eyes that always seemed to melt her into the honey of their color.
"Be safe, my husband," Tokio whispered aloud before finally blowing out the candle, hoping her prayer would be whisked away to him in the darkness.
~*~*~
Author's Notes for Ch. 2:
-I made Katamori a very friendly older man (though still in his thirties) for this story when dealing with Tokio. I have no idea what he was like in real life, but I imagine that he would act differently towards a sweet young girl than with his associates and the Shinsengumi; therefore I took the liberty of making him a really nice guy in Tokio's point of view.
-Okita Soujo was really fun to throw in, although I admit I don't know that much about him, so my apologies to all the Okita fans if he seems really out of character. He just always seemed to have a smile on his face during short RK scenes I've seen him in. I'd also like to note here that the Okita in my story might be a little different from the Okita in the Kenhin OVAs. Okita looks waaaay young there and one could easily get the impression that Saitou is Okita's superior if you didn't know Okita was the leader of the first squad. My Okita still respects Saitou (even calling him Mr. Saitou though they are the same age), but I imagine both men are on a bit more equal footing, with Saitou acting just a tad more respectful, as you'll see later.
-And just to make sure everyone is on the same page, the date where Tokio left off her story was about June 1, 1864. The Ikedaya Affair will be happening on June 5th!
Thanks for reading!!!