Author's Note: This chapter contains one M-rated scene that has been (largely) cut from this version of the story in order to preserve its T rating. The full version of the chapter can be read on FFnet in The Teachings of Demons (M), or on AO3.

~ Imp

Chapter 97—Reunited

Part I—Kazama Chiharu ~ Promise

Hijikata wasn't surprised when Chiharu escorted him to the front door of Sen's large home. For one thing, it was polite; for another, it was a sensible precaution, although he doubted they were worried about him wandering around the house. It took him until they'd reached the door to realize that there was a third reason he'd completely overlooked—blame it on fatigue.

"Hijikata-san?"

"Yes, Chiharu-sama?" He debated making it easier for her, but decided it would be more informative to let her broach the subject. He squashed the thought that he was just trying to avoid the whole problem.

Chiharu studied his face briefly, her purple eyes searching. No fool, he could tell that she was disappointed when he just stood there and waited for her to continue.

"You have told Osen-chan that you will be keeping your distance as much as possible from her and Oni matters after tonight."

"Yes."

"Then how will you… I mean…" Hijikata watched her fumble, look down, and then pull herself firmly together. "How will you meet your promise to train me?"

Hijikata sighed inwardly. He really did owe her the lessons, even if he didn't see the point. …No, that wasn't fair; after everything that had happened, it was clear that somebody in Sen-hime's entourage needed to be able to fight, and Chiharu had both the potential and the drive, according to Saitō. She'd already put her life on the line once, and today she'd faced down her older brother. He was being stubborn out of a strong desire to sleep and pretend none of this had ever happened.

"…Give me a couple of days and I'll try to come up with something. For your training." He waited for her to object to the timeline, but although her lips tightened briefly, she bowed politely in acceptance. When she looked up again, her face was composed, and betrayed none of her probable frustration. Her restraint was impressive, especially after the hellish day.

"Thank you for your consideration, Hijikata-san," she said, apparently without rancour. "I hope you are able to get some rest." She hesitated, and then added: "I'm sure your older sister would not be pleased to see how hard you are pushing yourself."

Hijikata found himself staring at her. Was that—was she actually teasing him a little, after his past comments about older sisters? It was difficult to tell, but it sure seemed like it. He had to repress a flicker of interest—a curiosity about what Lady Chiharu of the Kazama Clan was like outside the dictates of propriety and duty. There are enough Oni princesses mixed up with the Shinsengumi. Better to keep this one firmly at arm's length.

"You're probably right, Chiharu-sama. But if either of you can tell me when I'm supposed to sleep, I'd be glad to try."

"That does seem to be a problem," Chiharu acknowledged wryly. "Well—I won't detain you, then. Oyasuminasai, Hijikata-fukuchō." (1)

"Good night, Chirharu-sama. Don't worry, I'll be in touch soon." He was surprised at himself for adding a reassurance he could ill afford to give, and hurried out onto the engawa to find and don his sandals.

Chiharu found herself looking after him, although she remained inside. Hijikata-san hadn't answered her question as clearly as she'd have liked, but she felt confident that she'd get her training. The Vice Commander was an interesting man—he could be as cranky as any of them, but he also had a streak of fairness that tempered his irritability with justice. It was probably a source of annoyance to him, since he obviously played the part of iron-fisted leader to his men.

Once the Vice Commander had disappeared from sight, Chiharu's thoughts turned inexorably back to her conversation with Chikage. Hijiakta-san might find a way to begin the more intensive training that she wanted, but what would happen when her brother came for her as promised? Or rather, as threatened. As much as she loved Chikage, and wanted to believe in his sense of honour, he had been taught since birth that he was superior to all humans and most Oni, and his word had been law to the Western Clans since he was fifteen. Consequently, he tended to deal poorly with set-backs, although such things were rare. She had few illusions about how he would behave if she resisted his order to return home.

Alone with her thoughts for the first time in many hours, Chiharu took her time going back down the long hallway to the guest wing in which Chizuru was lodged. What were her chances of staying free to pursue her own goals once Chikage came looking for her? And would it be safer for Sen, and Chizuru, if Chiharu bowed her head and followed orders?

And aside from everything else… I hope Kichirō is okay. He deserves to take his Trial of Mind soon, and I'd hoped to be there for him.

Part II—Kazama Kichirō ~ Threat

"We're finally alone." Kazama-nii-sama's tone was still a great deal harsher than Kichirō was used to. He tried not to look nervous.

"Um, yes, Nii-sama?"

The darkness was now more grey than black, and Kichirō could make out his brother's tight jaw and thin lips. The deep red eyes just like his own seemed to bore into him.

You guided that man to our home.

Kichirō swallowed and bowed low. I am sorry, Kazama-nii-sama.

Why?

Kichirō kept his eyes fixed on the forest floor. The voice in his mind was heavy. He'd forgotten how overwhelming his older brother could be.

I—it's—if somebody had to go, it was right for it to be me, not Haru-nee.

"That's hardly an answer, Kichirō."

Kichirō felt the hovering coercive force and tensed. Then it suddenly vanished, and he reflexively darted forward as his brother stumbled.

"Nii-sama!" He caught Kazama in his arms as the stumble became a fall. Apparently, there was a limit to even his brother's incredible strength.

Kichirō hesitated between remaining in the clearing and returning to his mother and their summer home. A quick check showed that Chikage-sama had passed out completely, presumably from the strain of healing a heart injury and then rising and using his Gifts of Mind. The weight that Kichirō supported against his shoulder was limp, like a very heavy rag doll. Kichirō himself was now aware of overwhelming fatigue, and he had to blink to keep his eyes open. He was very tempted to just sit down with his back to a tree and let his brother sleep.

At that moment, a very familiar presence registered on Kichirō's mind. His head swiveled in the direction of the distant house, and less than a minute later, his mother stepped into the clearing. She uttered a soft exclamation of distress when she saw the blood-stained state of her sons, but she didn't hesitate to hurry over to Kichirō to examine them more closely.

"Mother? Are you—are you well?" Kichirō grimaced even as the words left his mouth, feeling ridiculous.

To his surprise, his mother just gave him a faint smile. He'd expected something more plaintive, or more… dramatic. Kichirō had been born a few years after the loss of Lady Kazue's second daughter, Chiharu's twin, and she'd been something of an invalid for most of his life, in spirit as well as in body. However, her hands were steady as she wordlessly adjusted Chikage-sama's clothing and helped Kichirō to lift him under shoulders and knees. It was a good thing that Kichirō was as tall as his older brother, although he still lacked the breadth he would have as an adult.

"We'll talk back at the house, once we've gotten Chikage settled," Lady Kazue told her younger son, once she was satisfied that Kichirō could manage his burden without strain.

"Um, yes, Mother."

"I assume that Kenshin"—there was sadness in that name—"is with… is with my nephew?"

"Yes, Mother." He received the distinct impression he wasn't to mention Saitō-sama by name. Was his mother somehow keeping his older brother asleep?

"I see."

They walked through the forest, and up towards the house, with its half-wild garden smelling of late summer blossoms and waving grasses. They passed the rock where Kichirō had first seen Kenshin, just a few hours earlier. Kichirō had to fight off an unlooked-for wave of loneliness—Kenshin was his little brother. They'd been close… closer than Kichirō was to the imposing Kazama Chikage, Lord of the Kazama and Duke of the Western Clans.

Involuntarily, Kichirō looked down at his brother's unconscious face, noticing the similarities between them, even though the tell-tale ruby eyes were closed and the fair hair was dull with sweat. Could Kichirō ever be something to this man, or would he forever be a younger brother to be trained, and protected, and humoured—as long as he was obedient and loyal?

"Kichirō." They were still only part way to the house; the gardens were becoming tamer and more formal, but the building itself was still just a dark shadow against the rapidly lightening sky.

"Yes, Mother?"

"I know you will miss Kenshin, and I am truly sorry that things have happened like this." To Kichirō's immense surprise, his mother waited for him to catch up to her, and then gently brushed his cheek with her fingers. He couldn't remember the last time she'd done something like that, although it had been different when he and Kenshin were younger. He felt the subtle reassurance—and affection?—through the touch, as brief as it was.

"Um…"

"And Chikage does value you, more than you think. Though to be fair"—Kichirō sensed wry, almost bleak humour—"he probably doesn't know it himself yet."

"Oh, um, well…" What did one say to that? Kichirō was embarrassed that his mother had read him so easily; but then again, she was his mother. It was just… very unusual… for her to speak with him like this.

"Hideaki-kun has been his companion, and will serve him well and loyally. He will never match up to Kyūju, but that isn't his fault, and he'll do better than either he, or Kyūju, expects—especially now that he has to." Lady Kazue huffed a soft, understanding breath for the fate of older and younger brothers among the Oni—or perhaps in general. "In any event, you will be his sword and shield—"

"But!"

"—Oh yes, I know he's exceptional, but that doesn't mean he doesn't need his family. If you are there to defend him, then maybe one day he'll feel safe again. Fear and loneliness do strange things to a mind, you know. And he'll miss Chiharu, won't he?"

The sudden question caught Kichirō off guard, and his exhausted mind couldn't formulate an answer. Fortunately, his mother seemed content to leave the matter there, and she preceded him into the house and down the hallway to Chikage-sama's elegantly-appointed suite of rooms.

Lady Kazue had evidently had the bedroom prepared before leaving to find her sons. She removed the silk coverlet from the futon before gesturing for Kichirō to set down his brother. Chikage-sama still showed no signs of waking, which surprised Kichirō a little. Then again, he'd practically come back from the dead. With Chizuru-chan—Chizuru-sama?—well, with her help. She was such a wonderful person, as well as pretty. And very, very married, he reminded himself.

He helped his mother strip off Chikage-sama's dirty, blood-stained outer clothing. When he was wearing nothing but his soft under-kimono, Lady Kazue smiled at Kichirō and murmured that she had summoned Hideaki—how, Kichirō didn't know or particularly care. He'd been a little surprised not to find Amagiri's younger brother with Chikage-sama from the start, and realized that the other Oni must have been ordered to stay away.

"And there he is now…"

There was the sound of quick footsteps in the passage, and then a murmured "excuse me."

"Kazama Kazue-sama. Kichirō-sama." The tall red-head bowed to each of them automatically, but his eyes and attention were all for the still figure on the futon.

"Thank you for coming so quickly, Hideaki-kun. Don't worry, he's just deeply asleep."

"With respect, my lady, what happened?" Hideaki was already at Chikage's side, examining his lord. "You said that Kazama-sama was injured, and that I should come, but that is all."

Lady Kazue didn't respond directly. Instead, she turned to Kichirō, and smiled gently at him. "I know you must be very tired, my dear, but could you please help Hideaki-kun with Chikage? When you're done, please come get me and we'll sit down together to discuss what has happened and what to do in the immediate future."

"Yes, Mother."

"As you wish, Kazama Kazue-sama."

Still smiling, the dowager duchess left the room on silent feet, her carriage as proud and graceful as ever in the face of near-disaster. Kichirō couldn't help but notice that she and Kimigiku—Kimiko-sama—looked quite a lot alike, but left an entirely different impression on his senses. Not for the first time this evening, he found himself wondering what his mother was really like—and what she really thought, behind her lovely amethyst eyes. It was an unsettling thought, and he did his best to banish it as soon as it surfaced.

"This wound…" Hideaki's deep voice recalled him to his duties. The other man was startled, so much so that he'd let it show.

"He was stabbed through the heart…"

"But—hmmm…"

Kichirō knew what the man was thinking: Either he should have died, or he should be fully recovered. Why is he alive, or—alternately—why hasn't the entry wound disappeared?

"I—I don't know the answer, Hideaki-san."

"You saw it happen, Kichirō-sama?"

"Yes." He didn't think he'd ever forget the sight.

Hideaki looked like he wanted to ask more questions, but he said nothing further; Lady Kazue had asked them to wait before discussing the matter, and there was no reason not to respect her wishes. They completed their appointed task in silence, and then Kichirō went to fetch his mother.

Part III—Yukishima Kameko ~ Offer

Only discipline and an iron constitution kept Saitō awake and mounted over the course of the last four hours of his journey back to Kyoto. Indeed, he was fortunate that Fast Travel was a Gift that came easily to him, since he barely had the energy to point the horse in the right direction and keep himself and his young charge in the saddle. At some point, he became conscious of a now-familiar headache, the result of power pushed too far, for too long. He suspected he had the accompanying fever, but there wasn't anything he could do about it.

The need to see Chizuru increased steadily, as exhaustion chipped away at the last of his reserves. Soon, only the boy asleep in his arms tethered him to an increasingly wavering reality. Eventually, he wasn't even aware of the occasional traveller who had to scramble out of his way as he ghosted past, each stride of his mount taking him four or five times as far as it should have. As Sen remarked later—to Harada, not Saitō—it was just as well that they found him when they did, or some idiot might have eventually pulled him out of his fugue state and gotten themselves killed for their trouble.

In fact, it had taken much longer to find Saitō than Sen had hoped. Harada had been forced to leave with Yamazaki long before, and Sen hadn't needed supernatural powers to know that the spearman was worried about what would happen if Saitō didn't get back in time for his afternoon patrol.

She couldn't have found Saitō at all without Amagiri, and his strong bond as both vassal and pledged kin. She'd been reluctant to allow Amagiri to participate actively in the search, since Amagiri was still weak from his ordeal with Chizuru, but she'd capitulated after Satoshi had gotten involved. He'd been keeping a close watch on both nieces since Harada had gone, and after being patient with Sen's approach for over an hour, he'd intervened.

"At a time like this you need to use all the tools at your disposal, Osen-chan."

"But—"

"I'm certain that Kyūju-kun would rather work with you than with me, niece. But he's going to work with one of us. Chizuru needs her husband as soon as possible, and I suspect that Saitō-san is suffering a great deal from their separation as well."

Far from objecting to being called a tool, Amagiri had agreed with Satoshi, and that had been that. Fortunately, they hadn't needed to impose on Amagiri's over-taxed resources for very long. As soon as she'd sensed her quarry—who had been much closer than she'd thought possible—Sen had stopped focussing through Amagiri and reached out directly to the missing captain.

Saitō-san!

Sen-hime's voice had seemed unnecessarily loud to Saitō's aching head, but contact with Sen meant news about Chizuru, and he had done his best to "accept" the mental contact. Just as exhausted as its rider, the horse had come to a jolting stop, and Kenshin had almost tumbled from the saddle. Fortunately, Sen had immediately stabilized Saitō's wavering mind, and Chiharu had calmed Kenshin, who had awoken with a cry. It was Amagiri—sounding every bit as weary as Saitō felt—who had delivered the news that Chizuru was fine, but asleep.

It is just sleep, Saitō. There is nothing wrong with her—with any of them.

Saitō had to push back another wave of yearning and useless anxiety, but it was muted; speaking with Amagiri was calming. However, he also glimpsed how worried Amagiri had been for Kenshin—and Saitō—through Amagiri's barely-there mental shields.

"What time is it, Sen-hime?" Saitō asked the question aloud for Kenshin's benefit.

Almost eleven. The timing will be tight. Can you manage a bit more? Now that we know where you are, we can help. Chiharu was speaking with Kenshin again. Saitō's aching head could neither quite hear their conversation, nor fully block it out.

It was a strong testimony to how thin all of their resources had become that Saitō received no warning—from either his own senses or those of the observers in Kyoto—before a woman stepped out onto the path less than fifty feet down the trail from them. Kenshin immediately tensed, and Saitō reached for his sword.

As soon as she saw them, the woman moved her arms away from her sides, showing empty hands. She wore dark hakama over a softly-patterned purple kimono, and her high black pony-tail fell below her waist, rippling in the light breeze. Saitō's first—and totally bizarre—thought was that the Vice Commander had shrunk. It took a moment for him to recognize Kimigiku's sister, by which point Sen, Chiharu, and Amagiri had all registered varying degrees of surprised disbelief.

Chikame?!

Chikame-sama?

Kameko!

Saitō could understand their concern and confusion, given his memories of the beaten, desperate wraith who had been the Yukishima Heir. He instinctively sought reassurance from Amagiri that he had not made a mistake. What he received in return was a jumble of emotion and words that conveyed the depths of Amagiri's conflicted feelings and exhaustion.

She has not seen her—our—child since he was a few weeks old. But she gave me no indication that she intended to do something like this. How did she know what was happening? Although—it was probably foolish to think that she was unaware. Did she slip out unnoticed from Yase? Surely Kimiko would not—

Amagiri—be calm. That was Sen-hime. Saitō was surprised and impressed that the young princess was so alert. He noticed that she seemed more rested than the rest of them. An image of amber eyes and red hair flitted through Saitō's mind unbidden, but he didn't know if that was from Sen-hime, or merely his own conjecture.

Amagiri—it will be well. Chiharu-sama. She was less firm, and more tired, but very kind. Even Saitō felt insensibly reassured.

I should be there, Sen-hime. Amagiri was abruptly closed off again, and Saitō could sense, even from—well, from wherever he was—the formidable discipline that now locked down any unruly emotions.

You shouldn't move, Amagiri.

It's not far, princess.

Saitō suddenly recollected—he'd somehow forgotten—that Amagiri had been hurt—drained?—because they'd needed to protect Chizuru and the—

"Um, S-Saitō-sama?"

Saitō was saved from his spiralling thoughts by Kenshin's wavering treble. He immediately wondered which of Sen-hime or Chiharu-sama had intervened.

"Yes, Kenshin?" The moment he focussed his attention on the boy, he realized he'd been wrong. The boy himself had picked up on his distress. Like Amagiri, Saitō shoved back his emotions with the discipline of long practise.

"Are you—" Kenshin recollected himself: one did not ask men like Saitō-sama if they were okay. He started over. "Um, well, Haru-nee-san said we're almost…" The young voice trailed off, and Saitō realized the boy was near panic, despite all his maturity and undeniable resilience. The word 'home' hovered in the air between them, unspoken. Home, to Kenshin, meant the comfortable house they had left behind, and the woman who had always been his mother.

At that moment, the unexpected newcomer bowed politely. "Good morning, Sakurai-sama. Welcome to Kyoto, Kenshin-kun. I am Yukishima Kameko. I hope I can be of service to you."

Kameko was rail thin, and had the faded look of a person who had only recently recovered from a long illness. Despite this, she was straight-backed and composed.

"You look just like my mother," Kenshin murmured, his purple eyes round with interest. Saitō heard a sharp intake of breath from Kameko, but the woman remained outwardly calm. She kept her gaze fixed on Kenshin, although her hands remained carefully still and away from her body—undoubtedly for Saitō's benefit.

"That is not surprising, Kenshin-kun. Your foster mother, Shiranui Kazue-sama, was my mother's first cousin." Kameko's voice was warm and steady. "Most of the women of our line are similar in appearance, since there are so many twins."

"Oh." Kenshin nodded thoughtfully. "I'd forgotten that. Even Onee-san has purple eyes." Before Saitō could find a good way to interrupt, Kenshin added: "So you are related to Saitō-sama too, then? Because he is the son of, um, Shiranui Toshio-sama…" Kenshin blushed, suddenly realizing he'd been tactless. "Ah! Gomenasai, Kameko-sama!"

Had Saitō not been so tired, and in so much pain, he might have laughed—or at least smiled grimly. Yukishima Kameko looked distinctly taken aback by the idea of being related to him, especially in such an unfortunate way. However, she managed to respond without more than an instant's hesitation.

"Yes, Kenshin-kun, I am related to Saitō-sama. But the Yukishima are related to most Oni at this point, you know." Sensitive to nuance, she was careful to use the name "Saitō" as Kenshin had.

"And you can discuss all of this with Kameko-sama—and Yukishima Kimiko-sama—later," Saitō interposed.

Kameko bowed her head at once, as though anxious to deflect any intended reprimand for Kenshin onto herself. None of the Kyoto observers missed the tragic implication in the overly-submissive gesture. Her mother and uncle had been cruel.

"Of course, Saitō-sama. Kenshin-kun, I look forward to talking to you more very soon. Both my sister and I were there when… when you were born." For an instant, the mask slipped, and Saitō glimpsed the anguish that lay beneath the assumed calm. "So… we will be happy to answer your questions. All right?"

Kenshin nodded emphatically. "Yes, thank you, Kameko-sama. I would definitely like to talk to you more about, um, about those things." He smiled at her, pleased to have met such a kind new relative-in-some-degree. Then he remembered that Kameko-sama deserved a more deferential response—wasn't she the Yukishima Heir?—and managed an awkward bow.

"We are almost to your sister, and to Sen-hime," Saitō told Kenshin, hoping that would help him wait.

"I understand, Saitō-sama." Kenshin's mood shifted again. "But… if Kirō-nii isn't my brother, then that means—"

"Chiharu-sama will always be a sister to you. You know this."

"…Yes. But—"

"Kenshin."

There was more than a hint of command in Saitō's tone this time, and it reminded Kenshin irresistibly of his eldest brother. That is, foster brother. It was oddly reassuring: Saitō-sama might be scary at times, but overall he made Kenshin feel safe. And Kichirō obviously respected him a lot, and so did Chiharu—she'd told him so—and so did Amagiri-oji-san, who the other Saitō-sama—Sakurai-sama—had said was his father. That was still a very troubling thought, though not entirely bad. For the first time since leaving Kichirō, Kenshin allowed himself to think about what it might be like to have a father. He'd never known his foster father.

Saitō exerted himself to say more, uneasily conscious that Sen-hime, Chiharu-sama, and both of Kenshin's parents were watching him. "For now, Sen-hime says that we should depend on Kameko-sama to be our guide. Ganbatte ne, Kenshin." (2)

Kameko watched the exchange in silence, although the observers in Kyoto could tell that she was struggling not to betray herself. She was clearly determined to make things as easy as possible for Kenshin, despite being a complete stranger to him. If it took her a moment to pull her eyes away from the boy—whose profile and dark red hair were so much like his father's—that was understandable.

Saitō began to hope that this meeting might improve his chances of reaching Kyoto—meaning Chizuru and Hijikata-san—before he either ran out of time, or collapsed. The thought was unlike him, but comforting. In fact, Sen-hime was smoothing out his reactions, as she had once before. The princess had finally taken in the full measure of his distress, and she was wholly unrepentant in using the permissions implicit in his oath of fealty to bypass his outermost defenses.

"Please allow me to lend you my strength, Saitō-sama, such as it is." Kameko slowly approached the riders. "I will lead you on foot, but I assure you that we can be at Sen-hime's house quite quickly, if nothing impedes us."

Saitō acquiesced, trusting in Sen-hime and the others to know if this was a trap. He would have preferred to walk, but Kenshin was better off mounted. Also, it put more distance between the boy and his potentially unstable mother.

"I think I know of Kameko-sama?" Kenshin told Saitō, once they were moving again. Since he was talking to reduce his anxiety, Saitō made an effort to pay attention. "She is the heir to the Yukishima, right? Mother—you know—has spoken of her."

The news about the Yukishima obviously hadn't yet reached the Kazama in the few days since the tragedy, which was just as well, but complicated things with Kenshin. It was only natural that the boy had been taught the names of the Oni clan leaders and their families, which was why he'd been puzzled by Saitō in the first place.

"Kimiko-sama was recently reinstated into the Yukishima clan."

"Oh." Kenshin turned this over in his mind.

Just go straight along the path coming up on your right, Saitō-san. Kameko is leading you correctly and with skill.

Did you prevent Amagiri from leaving?

…Yes. Actually, Chizuru-chan did. She woke up again while we were discussing the matter, and just… told him that you wouldn't be pleased if he left. I don't know how awake she was, but she was very clear about what Saitō-san would want and not want. And that was that.

Ah. Saitō could tell that Sen-hime was stifling a mental giggle, if there was such a thing. He wanted to ask after Chizuru, but didn't dare. He'd be able to sense her soon, he hoped. It was getting difficult to balance the fever-ache and the continuous sense of missing Chizuru.

We'll keep a close eye on Chikame—Kameko—I promise.

Mm. What else could he say? He was grateful for the unexpected assistance, but wary of any family dramatics that might ensue.

Oh! Okiku—Kimigiku—too many names!—is here now!

Saitō could dimly perceive that Sen-hime was pleased and relieved, but let the thought wash past him. There was something now… was it Chizuru? He thought it must be, because although he couldn't sense her directly, the suffocating, barely-repressed anxiety suddenly started to ease. Without meaning to, he urged the horse forward.

Time passed—not much—and then the path through the trees became familiar, and the back gate to Sen-hime's Kyoto property was before them. Saitō realized that Kameko was now guiding the horse; which was just as well, since all his attention was elsewhere. Shocked back to full awareness by his lapse, Saitō blinked, realized that he was perilously close to shifting to Oni form, and drew the horse to a stop. Kenshin was silent in front of him—he suspected he'd alarmed the boy, but couldn't do anything about it now. Besides…

"Saitō-san! You're back!"

The one person he wanted—needed—to see was in front of him, heedless of her state of partial undress, and barefoot on the dirt path beyond the gate. The relief was indescribable. Pain became mere discomfort—a feverish ache that was easily ignored.

"Kenshin!"

"Kenshin—you've done so well!"

"Amagiri-oji! Haru-nee!"

Kenshin was lifted down from the horse by Amagiri, and despite everything that had happened, Saitō exchanged no more than a perfunctory nod with him before sliding gracelessly out of the saddle. His knees started to buckle—that was embarrassing—but somebody braced him before he stumbled. Then Chizuru was in his arms and nothing else mattered.

Hajime—

Dear one—

I'm so glad you're home—you're safe—

Yes.

They stood there for some time—Saitō wasn't sure how long—Chizuru's head held close to his chest; his face pressed to her hair. Ordinarily, neither would engage in such a public display, but Saitō was past caring, and it was doubtful whether Chizuru was aware of anybody else.

Beyond Chizuru, Sen was trying to take in everything at once, as several different conversations—few of them spoken—were taking place at once. She didn't notice at first that her uncle was at her side, his expression unusually wary. It was only quite a bit later that she realized he'd been guarding her. In hindsight, it made sense; the Oni were sensitive to strong emotion, and every person there except Satoshi was experiencing varying degrees of emotional stress.

Kenshin had been both happy and relieved to see Amagiri and Chiharu, but his first greetings rapidly gave way to hesitation as the complications of his situation—and the frightening night just past—quelled his first enthusiasm. Fortunately for him, neither adult was slow to comfort his anxiety: aside from a brief—if unusually fervent—hug, Amagiri treated him as he usually did, and handed him into his sister's care without delay; Chiharu, for her part, knelt to embrace him, and fussed over him enough to bring a slight flush to his cheeks.

A few steps away, Kimigiku put her arm around her sister's waist, anger at Kameko's impetuous decision to seek out Kenshin forgotten in the face of the anguish that threatened to break through the other woman's carefully constructed façade. Instead of censure, she paid quiet tribute to the strength and determination that had allowed her sister to find and help her son despite a ten-year separation and years of cruel treatment.

You were more successful than anyone, Keko-chan… And I can see that they needed you.

…I—I'm sorry for leaving without telling you…

Kimigiku shook her head, and would have said more, but as the first flurry of activity tapered off it became impossible to ignore the reunited pair in their midst. As Amagiri had recently explained to Saitō, he and Chizuru appeared very bright to Oni senses at the moment—uncomfortably so for many of those present. As unguarded as they were right now, it was no surprise that even Kenshin was staring at them, at once intrigued and overwhelmed. Had he been there, Kichirō would have sympathized with his younger brother, and then left as quickly as possible.

Kimigiku instinctively tightened her grip on her sister, who was trembling. She was surprised, and very relieved, when Kameko drew a deep breath and managed a wry, but genuine, huff of laughter.

So that's how it is…

Yes…

Kyūju's tales about Saitō-sama and Yukimura-sama seem less… fanciful… now. She's very young though, isn't she? And terribly devoted. Gods, this is—difficult—to bear, especially with Kyūju and—and Kenshin—right here…

I know, Keko—just lean on me, we will manage. It won't be for long.

As if on cue, Satoshi stepped forward with a theatrical cough. Kimigiku suspected that he also said something forceful to Amagiri—though not aloud—since the latter's expression suddenly registered startled chagrin, and then annoyance—though with whom it wasn't clear.

"Saitō." Amagiri's voice was gruff, but controlled. When Saitō stiffened, but didn't move, Amagiri stepped toward him, not incidentally blocking Kenshin's view of the young couple.

It occurred to Kimigiku that of everyone present, Amagiri was the safest with Saitō at the moment. Sen-hime commanded his loyalty, and possibly even some affection—although it was difficult to say—but Amagiri was the person to whom he'd entrusted Chizuru, and the one who had suffered on her behalf. Of course, Saitō had risked everything to retrieve Kenshin for Amagiri in the first place. However it had come about, they'd forged a remarkably deep bond.

Amagiri stopped within arm's reach of Saitō and tried again. "Saitō, Yukimura-sama is well, and you need to fulfill your promise to Hijikata-san. It is important to you."

In the silence that followed, Kameko reached out to her sister for clarification. She did her best to keep her surprise private.

Hijikata-san is his commander? I think Kyūju mentioned him. But surely—I mean, it's obvious that the two of them need a great deal more time together before he will be fit to resume his duties. What could possibly be so urgent that he must leave his wife again so soon?

I understand what you are saying, replied Kimigiku, but Hijikata-san and the Shinsengumi mean a great deal to Saitō-san, and he has already been allowed a great deal of latitude, from their perspective. As difficult as it will be for him to leave Chizuru-sama right now, I assure you that it would be a greater blow—for both of them—if he were to be expelled from the Shinsengumi because he could not master his personal desires.

Kameko digested this in silence. She knew that she still didn't understand the situation with the Shinsengumi very well, and she was aware enough to be cautious about making assumptions. However… it would be grossly unfair to say that Saitō was battling mere personal desires. She reminded herself that her sister had no doubt used the term to convey what humans would think of Saitō's dilemma.

"Saitō, you gave your word that you would do everything in your power to return before your afternoon patrol." Amagiri's deep voice was patient, but firm. "Both Hijikata-san and Harada-san have done their best for you; in fact, every person here has done their best to help you keep your promise."

"I…" Saitō's voice was strained. He was mortified to be causing a scene, but he desperately wanted them to leave him—and Chizuru—alone right now. It was difficult to think straight.

"Yukimura-sama knows how important this obligation is to you." Amagiri remained unyielding, for Saitō's sake, but his Oni sensibilities were affronted by the situation.

"Amagiri-san is correct, Hajime." Chizuru's voice was muffled by Saitō's kimono, but still audible. "We need to return to the compound as soon as possible. Hopefully, by the time you have to go on patrol, we'll both be more settled and it will be easier..."

"Well said, my dear." Satoshi was careful not to move closer, but he spoke with authority. "Saitō-san, we will inform the Vice Commander that you have returned. You have enough time for a short bath and a change of raiment, and I trust you will forgive me if I note that you are in dire need of both."

Saitō's head came up, and it surprised nobody that his irises were flickering with gold. However, it was clear that Satoshi's final words had struck a chord. His clothing was torn and stained with blood—mostly his own—and he was covered with dust from the long ride. It dawned on him that he should not be holding Chizuru in such a state. He loosened his hold on her, and bowed stiffly to Satoshi.

"I will follow your suggestion, Satoshi-sama." He forced his arms to drop to his sides. Dredging up some semblance of courtesy, he bowed in the direction of the Yukishima sisters. "Thank you for your assistance, Kameko-sama." She looked so surprised to be thanked that something—compassion? pity? appreciation for her self-control?—impelled him to add: "I hope that you will be well."

Kameko bowed in return, deeper than strictly necessary, but with evident sincerity. "I am grateful for all that you have done for myself and my family, Saitō-sama. No thanks are necessary."

Saitō felt unequal to coping with the emotion in the Oni woman's eyes and voice. Fortunately, Chizuru slipped her hand into his, and removed any need to speak further by excusing them to "Kimiko-sama, Kameko-sama, Chiharu-chan, Amagiri-san, Osen-chan, and Satoshi-oji-san." She added something kind to Kenshin, who had somehow escaped Chiharu and was gazing at them from just behind Amagiri. The resemblance between father and son was evident, although Kenshin had a bright curiosity about him—even now—that reminded Saitō more of Sen-hime than anyone.

Hand-in-hand, Saitō and Chizuru left the small gathering just inside Sen's back gate, and made their way to the house. Once again, Sen's servants appeared unfazed by Saitō's haggard and blood-stained appearance.

"Your bath is ready for you, Saitō-sama," said the woman, with a kind smile. "Your clothes are in the changing room. Since you are in a hurry, I've also put together some onigiri for you to take with you when you leave." Noticing that Chiuzuru was wearing only her sleeping yukata and belt, she added: "I will fetch your clothes for you as well, Chizuru-sama."

"Your other swords are still in your room, Saitō-sama," the man told Saitō, carefully not looking at Chizuru. Message delivered, he left the kitchen.

When they closed the door to the bath chamber behind them, Saitō sighed in relief. They were finally alone.

"Oh Hajime…" Chizuru hugged him before he could stop her—or maybe he didn't try very hard.

"I wish…" Saitō couldn't finish the sentence, and not just because his wife was kissing him passionately, her hands tangled in his kimono. As usual, there was too much to say, and not enough time. Hopefully, this short time with Chizuru would restore him a little. The matter of Kazama's healing lay heavy between them, but was too loaded a subject for the these few minutes of peace.

Chizuru's hands trembled as they worked to divest him of his clothes. After a minute or two, he broke the kiss—not without regret—and gently removed her hands.

"I do not think I will be able to bathe and change efficiently with you here, Chizuru."

"I'm not leaving."

He should have been exasperated, but wasn't. Instead, her words relieved some of the pent-up anxiety of the past day apart. Taking her at her word, and more and more conscious of the time, Saitō stripped off his filthy and sweat-soaked clothes, and stepped quickly into the bath. They were too attuned for him not to notice Chizuru's immediate… admiration… and he hurriedly doused his hair and torso from the jug set out for that purpose. Exhaustion wasn't preventing him from imagining activities that would have to wait until—

There was a soft splash as Chizuru, blushing furiously, [...] sat down beside him and took the soap and cloth from his resistless hands. He found himself gaping at her, completely caught off-guard.

"You have pushed yourself too hard, for too long, and you need me." She couldn't quite meet his eyes, but her voice was determined, and her hands were already full of bubbles as she started [to scrub] away [the] blood and sweat [...].

Chizuru! You—I—what are you doing?! He knew, of course, but… This isn't the right time—

It is exactly the right time, Hajime. He felt her confidence waver, but her hands kept moving, and he began to feel as though steam was coming out of his ears. Somehow, he made himself catch her wrists and lift her hands away. He stared into her eyes, trying to understand—and trying to compose himself.

"Tell me, Chizuru."

"Well, um, I spoke with Kimiko-san as soon as she arrived, because I was very worried about you—and she seemed like she might understand—and, well, she said this was the best way to… well, she said you would be safer on your rounds if we…" She was red to the tips of her ears, but terribly earnest. "Kimiko-san said—and it makes sense to me!—that you will be able to focus better, and be less likely to, um, be distracted, or make mistakes, if—"

"So you're offering yourself to me like a kind of—of medicine? To keep me safe?" He knew he was wrong, but underneath it all he was still grieved that he hadn't been able to defend himself against Kazama—had been possessed, and used, because he'd been too weak to look after himself when it really mattered. There wasn't time to deal with that now, but he just couldn't—

"I understand, Hajime, I'm sorry." Chizuru's head drooped, and her hands stopped pulling against his. "But it's not out of pity, or anything like that. I mean, it's not just you who—" She stopped with a sigh, and leaned her head on his shoulder, cuddling herself into him as best as she could.

Saitō froze. Maybe he was overthinking things? Again. When would he accept that Chizuru enjoyed his touch and was able to choose for herself what she wanted? And maybe it was better to take what consolation they could in the short term, and sort the rest out later. It must have taken considerable courage for Chizuru to—to behave like that—and he suddenly felt guilty for pushing her away. Not to mention more than a little… frustrated. Why did everything have to be so rushed, and complicated?

[...]

All Saitō could think—once he could think—was that Chizuru had been right. This time together would act as a talisman, of sorts, against the crushing ache of being apart again. He felt so much better now, wrapped in her arms, his legs wound in hers, indulging in just one more deep kiss before having to get up, and wash, and dress.

"Hajime?"

"Mm?"

"Promise me you won't apologize for this?"

Saitō nodded slowly. "I will do my best. It's just that—what we do together—how you feel about it—" He cleared his throat and sat up, scanning the room for the promised changes of clothing. He suspected that Chizuru's kimono and hakama were just outside the door, and tried not to think about it.

It seemed that no matter how good things were in the moment, they kept having the same… discussion… for want of a better word; it was a problem. Chizuru couldn't understand why he felt guilty, sometimes; and he kept making the same wrong assumption that her desires couldn't possibly match his. So even as he washed and dressed, automatically helping Chizuru to do the same, he continued what he'd been saying. It wasn't easy, and the words came haltingly.

"Forgive me if I am too blunt—it is not appropriate to even mention this to you, except it seems necessary—but what I have observed in the course of my work—and life in general—is that women trade sexual favours for either security, or money. That is, girls and women submit to men—give their bodies—in order to survive, or to live more comfortably, or because they are required to marry. Enjoyment of such activities is mostly one-sided, or so I have always thought."

Chizuru didn't seem offended or upset, just startled, and rather thoughtful. Well, he'd explained himself as much as he could. He exerted himself to clarify one final point, just in case she was worried: "My personal knowledge of such things—of women in general—is limited, both by circumstance and, ah, choice."

Somehow, they were both dressed now, and the rooms were as tidy as two minutes' work would allow. Chizuru hadn't let him out of arm's-length the whole time, but for certain necessities.

"…I think I understand, Hajime," said Chizuru, once it was clear that Saitō had nothing to add. "And I've, um, heard both kinds of stories—well, from married women mostly, and not that anybody said anything specifically to me… But, um, I know that some women enjoy being with their husbands…" She tried to meet his eyes and failed, as genuinely shy now as she'd been whole-heartedly passionate before. Looking down, she said, "I love you and admire you very much, Hajime."

Saitō had neither response nor defense to that. He held his beloved close, kissed her hair, and then turned his mind to what needed to be done next. Chizuru wasn't going to like it when he told her to stay with Sen-hime while he returned alone to headquarters, but he was going to insist. She was safer here, and the men he trusted to look after her among the Shinsengumi were either busy, or needed rest. Also, he wanted her out of the way in case there was any unpleasantness due to his absence.

"Hajime?"

"Yes?" He slid open the door into the main part of the house, and he and Chizuru started toward the main hallway. He still needed to collect his regular swords—he had mixed feelings about the Sakurai blades at present, and wouldn't want to bring them on patrol in any event.

"I'll stay here. I'd rather go with you, but I can tell you'd be more comfortable if I didn't." After a brief hesitation, she added: "Will you bring me home after your patrol? Please?"

Saitō glanced sideways at her, trying not to frown. He obviously needed to pull himself together better. Or maybe Chizuru had simply anticipated his request in the normal way, without reading his thoughts. She was perceptive, and he knew she wanted to make things easier for him. He considered his response, not sure he could reasonably promise anything about his time later that day, but hoping they wouldn't have to be too far apart for too long.

"Once I am sure that I can stay with you, I will bring you back to headquarters, if that is what you want. It might be better—but we can talk about that later. Right now, I need to report to the Vice Commander."

"Thank you, Hajime. If it's okay, could you give my regards to Hijikata-san? While you're gone, I'm going to get some sleep—I know you want me to, and I am tired—and then I want to meet Kenshin, if that's possible. He seems very sweet." Unconsciously, she touched her belly, clearly wondering what their own son would be like.

Saitō had to look away rather quickly. Something about that gesture made him feel at once extremely protective and terribly aroused—again.

"Kenshin is intelligent, but he needs more discipline." Frustration with his lack of self-control made him curt—and that just annoyed him further. After all, he had liked the boy, and had no cause to be brusque with Chizuru. Fortunately, she seemed to understand that he still wasn't quite himself.

A very short time later, his own familiar swords back on his right hip, Saitō was ready to go. His head had started aching again, but he didn't seem to have a fever, which was an improvement over when he had arrived. There had been one strange moment, just as he was setting down the Sakurai blades, when he'd caught an echo of a thought—disapproval, and something about not leaving his swords behind—but he'd forced himself to behave normally, and Chizuru had either not noticed, or chosen not to say anything. Saitō wasn't going to do anything about it—not even mention it—unless it turned into an immediate problem. He couldn't afford any more delays.

When they reached the front entryway, Saitō stopped to kiss his wife farewell, since there was nobody around. Unfortunately, that had been a mistake, from a certain point of view. Drawing a deep breath, he slid open the front door, and prepared to take his leave of Sen-hime and Prince Satoshi, who he could sense waiting for them. Small chance that they wouldn't know exactly how he was feeling, but he'd be damned—as the Vice Commander would say—if he would make it easy for them.

Part IV—Amagiri Kenshin ~ Decision

Saitō and Chizuru's departure made things easier in one way, and more difficult in others. For one thing, as soon as they'd gone, Kenshin wanted to know about Saitō-sama's wife. Was she really Yukimura Chizuru? He knew who that was, from his mother. Were there any other members of the Yukimura clan still alive?

Amagiri's admonishment to mind his manners had made him frown, mostly because he was very tired, and uncertain about his future, and partly because he knew his—his father—was right. Except they hadn't talked about the father part. Was he supposed to know? Could he ask about that, at least?

"Sen-hime, I don't think you've met Kenshin, correct?" Amagiri had apparently decided to start with introductions.

Sen nodded. It was an effort to drag her mind away from Saitō and Chizuru, and back to the problem in front of her, but it had to be done. She resisted the urge to close her eyes—or just run away and leave the whole Amagiri-Kameko-Kenshin situation to Satoshi. Of course, he would probably say that it was none of his business, and leave the principals to resolve things for themselves, which wasn't a bad thought, except that Amagiri looked tired and unwell, Kimiko—Sen was practising the name in her head—looked protective and a little fierce, and Kameko's self-control was beginning to waver. Meanwhile, none of this was Kenshin's fault, and Chiharu seemed uncharacteristically uncertain what to do.

"Kenshin-kun has never visited Yase or Kyoto," remarked Kimigiku conversationally. Silently, for the boy's sake, she added, and for good reason, since either Princess Shizuka or Princess Sen would have instantly guessed the truth.

"I am pleased to meet you, Kenshin-kun." Sen inclined her head gravely, feeling that it was best to put things on a semi-official footing, for now.

"Thank you, Sen-hime." Kenshin bowed deeply, although not with full formality, since they were outside, and the circumstances didn't seem to demand it. He'd been intrigued by the mystery of Saitō-sama's wife, but Sen-hime seemed like a very interesting person as well.

"For now," Sen told him, "I will ask your sister, Haru-chan, to look after you. I realize that you've just found out that Amagiri Kyūju-san is your father, but we'll have to talk about later, when you, and I, and Amagiri are better rested. It's been a very long night and day for all of us. For now, welcome to Kyoto, and to my home. I've given you the room Kichirō-kun had when he was here, since it is connected to Haru-chan's."

She smiled at Kenshin, and he found himself smiling back. Sen-hime made him feel that his concerns were important, and that his questions would be answered. He could see for himself that Amagiri-san was very tired—even more so than the others—and Kameko-sama appeared to be leaning on Kimiko-sama for support, even though she'd seemed fine earlier.

Making up his mind to be as patient as possible, he bowed again. "I understand, Sen-hime. Thank you for your hospitality." He sensed approval from Amagiri-san, and then the familiar touch of a large hand on his head. Looking up hopefully, he saw a faint smile on the tall man's face—although, now that he was paying better attention, he realized that one cheek was marred with criss-crossed scars, like a ghostly "X". Surprised and concerned, he almost asked what had happened, but managed to bite back the question at the last second. It had just occurred to him that he'd been told about serious trouble between Amagiri-san and Chikage-onii-sama, and his vivid imagination had painted him a disturbing picture.

"Try not to worry about too much right now, Kenshin," murmured Amagiri, as though reading Kenshin's mind—which he probably had, since he was good at that kind of thing. Then he lifted his hand from Kenshin's red hair, and nodded to Chiharu, who had joined them.

"Well, Ken?" she asked. "How about some tea, and a bit to eat, and then we can both get some sleep?"

Food suddenly sounded like a very good idea, so Kenshin assented enthusiastically. Besides, it was apparent that everyone was waiting for him to go in. He exchanged polite farewells all around—mostly without yawning—and followed his sister down the path, and into the house. He even let her take his hand, knowing that she would feel better for it.

The remaining adults exchanged silent looks after the foster siblings had left. Sen was by far the youngest person there, but her bearing and expression were those of the Princess of the Oni, not a sixteen-year-old girl. By mutual accord, the others waited for her to speak first.

"Kenshin will need to be told about both of his parents," she said at last. "And sooner rather than later. I will speak with him myself, unless you wish to be the one to inform him, Amagiri." She saw Kimigiku frown and raised a peremptory hand. "I will hear what you have to say, Kimiko, but my first concern must be for Kenshin. It's unfair—I know it is—but Kenshin is much more likely to be at ease with Amagiri than anybody else. Are you or Kameko-san concerned about what Amagiri might say?"

Sen's former bodyguard continued to frown, but she eventually waved her hand in the negative. "No. I don't think Amagiri will say anything that he should not about my sister, or jeopardize her chance to get to know Kenshin. Kameko? What do you think?"

Kameko raised her eyes to Sen's. Sen saw inexpressible hurt and loss—enough to bring tears to the eyes of any caring person, let alone the kind-hearted Princess of the Oni. Deep sympathy was momentarily replaced by anger, as Sen considered that the worst of the damage had been done by Kameko's own mother and uncle. The bloody scene at the Yukishima estate flashed through her mind, vivid and disturbing, as she reminded herself that the culpable were dead, and her task was to help the living.

"I…" Kameko hesitated, but something about Sen's unabashed warmth seemed to help her form her thoughts into words. "I don't mind if Kyūju speaks to Kenshin about me. We understand each other a little better, now. But… I would like to get to know my son." Her voice shook slightly on the last word, and her luminous purple eyes moved from Sen to Amagiri. "Will you make sure he knows that I would like to speak with him, Kyūju?"

After what felt like a long time, Amagiri met Kameko's gaze and nodded in the affirmative.

"I will do as you ask, Kameko. Sen-hime, I will speak with Kenshin and try to determine what is best for him. I will let him know that Kameko would like to talk to him, and also that"—Amagiri's eyes stayed fixed on his former lover—"his mother never wanted to be parted from him in the first place. Will that suffice, for now, Kimiko?"

If either sister was surprised that Amagiri's question was directed at Kimigiku, rather than Kameko, it didn't show. Sen was a little surprised that Amagiri—usually so formal—would refer to either woman by her first name alone, but it was evident that the three had managed to reach some kind of understanding over the past few days, however fragile.

"Yes, Kyūju, that's fine." Kimigiku's tone was neutral, but that was a definite improvement over previous exchanges, from Sen's perspective. "Sen-hime—Kameko and I should return to Yase now. Will you let us know once Kyūju-san has spoken with Kenshin?"

"Of course, Kimiko!" Sen smiled brightly at both sisters. "And thank you for rescuing our strays, Kameko-san. You helped them, and me, a great deal."

"You are welcome, Sen-hime, but as you are aware, I had an important reason to be there."

"Nevertheless, thank you."

Suitable bows were exchanged, and then the sisters took their leave. Sen thought that Kameko looked better for having taken another step toward living in the present, even if the present was not without it's difficulties. Amagiri excused himself as well, as blank-faced as Sen had ever seen him.

"That man is not well," murmured Satoshi, as he and Sen checked the wards on the back gate and fence and then followed Amagiri inside.

"I know. But there's only so much I can do about it. I have some hope that Saitō-san will eventually force him to get more rest—"

"Assuming that Saitō-san knows the meaning of the word. Speaking of which—"

"Yes, dear uncle?" Sen turned in the doorway to give her nearest relative a simpering, saccharine smile. She regretted it immediately when Satoshi's eyes took on a mischievous gleam.

"Well, I was going to offer to read you a few bedtime tales to help you sleep—you used to enjoy them quite a lot when you were smaller—that is, even smaller than you are now—"

"Uncle."

"But it occurs to me—perhaps that smile of yours put me in mind of it?- that you sleep best these days when Harada-san is nearby. Preferable, ah, under you."

"Uncle!"

"Hm? But you always look so cozy curled up with Harada-san, my dear."

Sen glowered at Satoshi, who gave her the blandest of bland looks.

"Shall we wait on the front porch for Chizuru-chan and Saitō-san, Niece? I don't think they'll be much longer."

"How do you—no, never mind, I don't want to know. By all means, let's wait out front."

[END]

A/Note: A long chapter, covering several things - and yet still a number of things to come. Thank you for reading! Please leave a comment or review if you get the chance.