Samurai X: A Zanza's Love
Author's Notes: This story is so not finished.if you wish to know what happens next, you probably have to wait for a while.very busy.sorry! Note: I watched the English version of the anime, so I might accidentally use some terms are from there.however, I will try to use Jap terms and names as best as I can.
Disclaimer: I do not own Samurai X (or though I wish I could.). I'm just one of the fans of the anime/manga.
Alright! Let's start the story!!!!
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(Flashback: Near the end of the Tokugawa Era, in the camp of the Sekihotai)
"If you had a daughter, Captain Sagara, what would you call her?"
Souza Sagara winced at the little boy's question and looked down from his sake. He had called his two adopted sons into the tent to have a drink together, and their light conversation had aroused the curious child. The other, Katsuhiro, looked up from his water too.
"I would call her.Ayako Sagara," he replied.
"Why the interest Sano, want to marry his daughter and be a true Sagara? I'm sure Captain Sagara won't mind," Katsuhiro teased.
"Don't worry Sano, I'll let you have her," Souza joked.
Sanosuke Sagara became angry and crossed his arms, as if the child's pride had been snatched away. Souza could not help but burst out laughing. The two children joined in the laughter too.
(End of flashback)
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(Meiji Era, backyard in Doctor Genzai's clinic)
"You know Sanosuke, you're probably the most accident-prone person I have ever seen. You're injured almost everyday," Megumi Takani exclaimed as she tended to Sanosuke Sagara's injured right hand. Doctor Genzai had gone to pick herbs in the mountains again, leaving the clinic and all its patients for her to handle alone.
"Well, you're the only female doctor I've ever seen," Sano retaliated. This much was probably true; in an ancient time like the Meiji Era, there was still the idea that females are unable to do important jobs, like being a doctor. In another words, they were regarded as the 'lesser sex'. In fact, many of the patients had questioned Megumi's capability as a doctor, even though she belonged to the respected Takani family of Aizu, who were well-known and respected for their medical background, and all generations of their family studied medicine, including women and children. Sano knew all this of course, including the fact that her father was killed and that her mother and two brothers went missing in the Battle of Aizu almost ten years ago.
"What is it this time Sano? Let me guess.gang fight? Gambling? Drink Fight? Or did you just run off without paying for your meal again?" Megumi teased. The beautiful doctor seemed to be in a cheerful mood today.
Sano stood up angrily. "Hey! I'm not that bad."he sat down quietly.
"Gambling," he admitted. Megumi gave a sigh. True, you can always count on Sano to be in trouble, but Megumi did not like the idea of having to see Sano come in injured all the time.After all, Sano was one of her close friends, along with all the others at the Kamiya Dojo. Out of them all, Megumi treasured Sano's friendship the most. She could still remember that faithful day, when Sano snatched the blade of the knife away using his bare hands, because she was trying to cut her wrist and end her tedious life. In fact, it was this same hand that she was bandaging which made her the doctor she was today.
Sano watched as Megumi's smooth hand carefully, yet skillfully, wound the bandages around his hand. Like everyday for work, Megumi was wearing her pale lavender kimono, with the darker michiyuki jacket over it. Today however, she had tied her hair up like Kaoru, and wore little lipstick. Although she looked paler, Sano could still feel the fox lady's happiness radiating out of her as she does what she loves best: saving people. Looking at her now, Sano was reminded why he had so crazily gripped the blade of the knife, not caring about his own hand, just to save this woman who had indirectly killed one of his best friends. In fact, it was this same hand that he had injured which saved her life...
For a moment, both of them did not do anything else, except stare at Sano's right hand. Both of them looked up at the same time, making eye contact, before Megumi broke it off and continued her work, bowing her head low. Sano pretended that he was just looking at some bush behind her. Out of the corner of his eye, Sano saw Megumi.blush? Was that what he was seeing? He was not sure.
"You should behave less roughly Sano.considering that I offer you treatment for free." Megumi said, back to her normal state. Sano has a sweatdrop.
"About the free treatment." Sano said, embarrassed. Now it was his turn to blush, but not like the way Sano thought he had seen Megumi had just now.
".Besides, acting so rough and totally ungentlemanly won't get you any girlfriend," Megumi interrupted.
"Why? Interested?" Sano prompted, leaning closer.
"Over my dead body," Megumi replied bluntly, not even looking up from bandaging his hand.
"That's what I thought," Sano said lazily.
"Anyway, think about what I've said," Megumi said.
"Over my dead body," Sano imitated, in the same dead serious voice as Megumi had. They looked at each other and laughed. Megumi finishes the dressing of his wound.
"There, all done. Try not to lift heavy things with your right hand.I mean it. No punches with that hand," Megumi insisted as Sano started to stand up. He gave a careless nod.
"Visit you soon, fox lady," Sano said.
"Not so soon, punk, I'll run out of bandages if you come this often," Megumi joked. She watched as Sano left the clinic, admiring his back view. The word "Aku" (which means evil) stood out against Sano's white gi, with the ends of his red bandana fluttering in the gentle breeze, and his 'chicken-head' hair swaying in the wind. As usual, Sano had his hands in his pocket and walked with a proud stride. Sometimes, Megumi thought, Sano looked so handsome.As if hearing her thoughts, Sano stopped and turned around slightly, giving her a warm smile before moving out of sight. She waved good-bye to him, and returned to her work in the clinic.
"Maybe she's right.whatever.I'll have some sake at Akabeko's.maybe ask a few friends along too." Sano thought as he left the clinic.
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(A street in Tokyo)
Meanwhile, Tae Sekihara, a waitress at Akabeko was rushing to work. The Akabeko was a restaurant situated at the central part of Tokyo, and was one of the few restaurants which served the newest dish in town: beef pot. Customers were led to cubicles, (which increased privacy) and a stove was placed at the center of the table for the cooking. Many people love to go there as a special treat, especially a particular strong-willed dojo mistress.
"Oh no, I'm late! Boss will be SO angry," Tae thought. She was silently angry at herself too; it was her working habit to be punctual at all times, especially since she was working at the Akabeko, which was always very busy. She was already feeling guilty thinking about how poor little Tsubame was doing all the work. In her hurry, she dropped her apron in the middle of the road. She bent down to pick it up quickly.
"Watch out!" a voice cried out.
"What?" Tae turned.and saw a carriage charging straight towards her! She stood there frozen with fright. Strong arms groped around her and pushed her out of the way. Both figures crashed onto the safety of the pavement. The carriage sped past.
"Watch where you're going!" shouted the carriage driver, before the carriage sped away from sight. Tae turned and came face to face with her savior.
Surprisingly, the strong arms which held her so tightly did not belong to a man, but a lady of about the same age as her! The first thing she noticed was her lovely, dark purple locks, with a blue headband around her forehead. Her features were elegant and angelic, with a perfectly shaped mouth and stunning purple eyes. Tae felt that this woman was probably even more beautiful than Miss Megumi or Miss Kaoru.
"Are you all right?" The lady asked anxiously. She helped Tae to stand up. Tae observed that the lady had a similar build as Kaoru. She wore a blue kimono and had a small bundle slugged over her shoulder.
"You.I'm alright.thank you very much for saving my life," Tae managed to say. At a closer look, Tae saw that the lady's kimono was covered with dirt.
"Oh no! Your kimono is dirty!" Tae exclaimed. The lady glanced down at her kimono and looked up again, smiling.
"It doesn't matter." The lady said.
"No! Please.come to the restaurant I work in.I'll help you clean up," Tae insisted, further examining the state of the kimono.
"Umm.I." The lady began to protest. However, Tae was already dragging her to the back of the restaurant.
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(A room in the back of the Akabeko)
In the back room, the lady had her clothes changed. Tae offered to wash the clothes for her, so the lady sat down uncomfortably and watched Tae wash the kimono.
"Thank you Miss Sekihara," the lady said gratefully.
"Call me Tae.washing is nothing actually.you saved my life, I can't thank you enough Miss."
The lady hesitated in answering. "You can call me Aya.I can't tell you my full name.it might get you into trouble," Aya bowed her head down in shame. Tae stopped her washing and went over to Aya, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Aya it is then. Don't worry; I've met people who are in trouble everyday and they're fine now. Is there anything I can do to help you? Anything at all?" Tae comforted.
Aya looked at Tae with hope. She then related her story to Tae: Aya's mother had died when she was very young. She was raised by her father in a small village in the outskirts of Kyoto. However, when she was eight years old, her father left her, telling her not to reveal her surname no matter what happens. Although he never told her anything, Aya had guessed that her father was part of some secret mission group and that he plays a big part in bringing the end of the chaotic Tokugawa Era and bring about a new Era- The Meiji Era. Aya never saw her father again, and was left with a pouch with direct instructions on what she should do.
"So, here I am, in Tokyo.all alone, no home." Tears start to form in Aya's eyes. Tae tried to comfort her by giving her a hug.
".No job." Aya continued.
"Wait! I can get you a job!" Tae interrupted, suddenly bursting with energy. Aya looked at her in confusion.
"You can work here! In the Akabeko! A waitress recently went back to her hometown.you can take her place! As for where to live.I know a place which can take you in.I'll take you there after the day's work is done," Tae said excitedly, with her eyes bubbling. Aya considered the idea: it certainly sounds like a good idea and a great help to her. A moment later her eyes were bubbling like Tae's.0.0
"Can you start work now?" Tae asked.
"Of course!" Aya replied excitedly.
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(In Akabeko restaurant, a particular booth)
Sano entered the Akabeko with some of his friends. They sat at their usual booth in the corner and drank some sake, talking about the recent events. However, when they have had enough, a new purple-haired lady wearing the Akabeko uniform approached to clear the plates, instead of the usual waitresses like Tae.
"Hey you're new here, aren't you? What's your name?" asked Sano's friend.
"Umm.yes.I'm Aya," Aya replied shyly.
"You're a cutie, want to go out some time?" prompted another friend. Aya blushed, panicking when he tried to pull her closer.
"Back off, leave the lady alone," Sano ordered. The moment he dropped her hand, Aya quickly backed off. Sano stood up and turned to Aya.
"Sorry about that." Sano apologized; he turned to his friends, "come on guys, let's go." They left Akabeko at Sano's prompt. He made sure he was the last to leave.
Before Sano left however, he turned and gave Aya a smile. Aya blushed a deep red and stood there for a moment.before realizing that they had not paid for their food. Aya rushed out immediately.
"Hey! You haven't paid!" Aya shouted.
"Settle it with Tae, new girl," Sano replied, without even looking back. Later, Tae explained to Aya about Sano. He never pays for his food, always agreeing to pay back later. However, Sano brings customers to them, so Tae lets him eat free. Tae tells her that Sano is a nice man, with a strong sense of justice. Aya was mesmerized already.
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(On a deserted street, on the way to the well)
Tae had sent Aya to the well to fetch some water. As she walked, she thought of her accouter with the guy called Sano. He was handsome of course; with sharp, distinguished features and that charming smile. It was an added bonus that he had an excellent build, with his muscular chest showing from his opened gi. However, Aya's good impression of him was mostly due to his friendliness and charisma. She decided that this Sano person was quite good after all. She was about to turn into a corner when she knocked into someone.
"Where are you going, gorgeous?" The person asked, malevolent grin on his face. It was a very tall and muscular man, with a livid scar across his forehead and wearing an utterly unkempt outfit. It did not take an expert to tell he was bad company. Aya tried to turn and run, but the man stopped her tracks and drove her to a corner.
"Come on, I just want to be your friend, hehe." The man reached out and grabbed Aya's arm. Aya started to reach for her hidden.
"You have a strange way to make friends," a voice in the shadow said. The huge man dropped Aya. She quickly kept what she was about to take out.
"Who are you? Busybody, get lost before I flatten you!" the man threatened.
"I don't think so." the figure stepped out of the shadow, "and who am I? I think you are too pathetic to have my name." he positioned himself to attack.
"Mr. Sano!" Aya shouted from behind. Sanosuke Sagara nearly fell down.
"You. Are. Not. Supposed. To. Give. My. NAME!!!" Sano said, giving a frustrated look to her. Aya has a sweatdrop. She covered her mouth quickly.
"Oh.opps.I'm so sorry!" Aya whispered. Sano has a sweatdrop.
"Too late.anyway. you'd better get lost.before I break your bones!" Sano shouted to the bully and charged. Despite the man's huge build, he was no match for the strong and skilled Sano. The man was down in a minute. Sano brushed his hands.
"Like I said, pathetic." Sano said lazily.
"Not.so.fast." The man staggered up. Sano has a sweatdrop. He gave a sigh.
"Guess I just have to really knock you unconscious, close your eyes lady.Yah!" Sano jumped into the air and aimed to deliver a deadly kick. Suddenly, the man drew a weapon from his pocket.a gun!
A shot rang clear into the air.
Both men were standing. A second later, Sano grabbed his left arm in pain. Another second later, the huge man collapsed to the ground, unconscious. Aya rushed to Sano's side.
"Thank you for saving me, are you al.oh no!" Aya exclaimed when she saw Sano's bleeding left arm. The bullet had hit his arm even as Sano had knocked the bully's brains out. Blood stained his hands even as he endured the pain.
"Just a small wound." Sano reassured. He winced in pain. "On second thought, care to take me to the doctor?"
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(Doctor Genzai's clinic, in a wardroom)
Megumi retrieved the bullet from Sano's arm before starting to dress the wound.
"Tsk tsk, second time today.when I warn you about your right hand, you get your left arm shot, tsk tsk, and I guess I really need to buy more bandages especially for you.and I don't even want to guess what happened. " Megumi noted, shaking her head in dismay. Sano gave her an evil look. Megumi just smiled slyly.
"It's a special case," Sano answered. Megumi looked out of the window to see a very anxious Aya pacing in the backyard.
"Yes.hmm.interesting.damsel in distress and Mr. Accident-prone-I-can-do- anything-Sano saves her.never heard that reason from you before.cute damsel though." Megumi analyzed. Her fox ears had already popped out.
"Just bandage my arm, fox lady," Sano interrupted, scorning. Megumi giggled in delight.
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(Street outside the clinic)
After the 'scorning' by Megumi, Aya and Sano left the clinic and walked for a while. There was some tension at first, but Aya soon broke the ice.
"Thank you Mr. Sano," Aya said shyly.
"Just Sano.it was nothing; I hate jerks who bully girls.so what's your family name anyway?" Sano inquired. Aya stopped in her tracks.
"But.?" Aya began to ask.
"Nobody's name is just 'Aya'. You're hiding your surname.why?" Sano persisted. Aya kept quiet for a while.
"I'll get many people into trouble if I reveal my full name.so.I." Aya managed to say. Sano looked at her curiously. For a moment, Aya's features looked very familiar.
"Want to know my full name?" Sano interrupted. Aya nodded curiously.
"But I'll probably get many people into trouble if I reveal my full name." Sano imitated, giving her a mischievous smile. Both of them burst out laughing.
"Good bye Miss Aya," Sano finally said.
"Just Aya," Aya joked. Both of them smiled.
"Goodbye Aya."
"Goodbye Sano."
Aya stayed for a while, looking at Sano's back profile. She could not help but feel a reluctance to leave, but she still had work to do. As she rushed back to Akabeko, she remembered Sano's bright smile. She blushed heavily.
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(At the door of the Kamiya Dojo, evening)
Tae and Aya stood outside the door of the Kamiya Dojo. Aya felt very nervous.
"This is the place I told you about Aya, they're a nice bunch of people.Ms. Kaoru is a very kind person, I'm sure she'll take you in," Tae said cheerfully.
"But what if.this is a dojo.what if." Aya protested nervously.
"Don't worry.if it helps, someone visits this dojo often," Tae giggles uncontrollably, "especially when it's mealtime."
"Hoi?" Aya questioned. She was about to ask further when the door opened. A friendly looking lady with long blue hair appeared, along with two little girls behind her. Aya felt so nervous she started to shake.
"Tae-chan! Come on in.hello Ms." Kaoru greeted. Kaoru Kamiya, the mistress and teacher of the Kamiya Dojo. She teaches the style of Kamiya Kashin Ryu, the sword of life, to her disciples.
"Aya," she replied in a hoarse voice.
"Aya! Aya! Ha ha!" Ayume and Suzume chorused, before bursting into a series of laughter. They returned to the house. Kaoru smiled.
"Come in Tae-chan, nice to meet you Aya-chan, come in," Kaoru welcomed. They entered the door. Aya marveled at the beautiful backyard. She spotted a red haired man sweeping the floor. He looked strangely familiar.
"Look Kenshin! Tae-chan is here!" Ms. Kaoru called out to the person. Kenshin Himura put down the broom and turned around. Aya was shocked to see the 'X' scar across his left cheek. However, Mr. Kenshin gave a bright and friendly smile.
"Welcome Tae-chan." Kenshin turned to Aya, "and you are."
"My name is Aya," Aya replied.
"Kombawa, Aya-chan, I'm Kenshin Himura.You know, I heard it's rude to not give someone their full name when asked," Kenshin said, still having a wide smile on his lips. Aya became very nervous. Kaoru looked puzzled.
"We have something important to discuss with all of you," Tae interrupted.
"Well.come on in then. Kenshin, call Yahiko," Kaoru said.
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(In the hall of the Kamiya Dojo)
Soon, all of them gathered in the hall. Tae told them the purpose of their visit, and explained Aya's situation.
"So, I hope that you can accept her in, Aya really has nowhere to go. I wish to let her stay in the dojo, a place where she can call home," Tae concluded. Aya bent her head down.
"Please accept me in.I can do anything." Aya rattled. Kaoru held her up, telling her it was not necessary.
"I can do washing, cooking." Aya continued.
"Cooking! Boy do we need a decent cook around here.Ouch!" Yahiko Myoujin interrupted. Kaoru had hit Yahiko's head with a pan. After a twist of faith, Yahiko is now the only disciple left in the dojo. Kaoru teaches him and even provides the basic needs for him. Yahiko respects her very much, but sometimes, Yahiko just cannot keep his big mouth shut. ;o
"What do you mean by 'need a decent cook'?" Kaoru confronted. Yahiko started to apologize.
"Why the big gathering? Well, well.who do we have here?" said a voice. They all turned to the door. Sano stood leaning against the door. Aya was shocked to see him there. Sano strolled in and sat down beside Aya.
"Hi," Sano greeted her, with a smile on his face. Kenshin noticed that Aya had started to blush. He chuckled at Aya's reaction.
"He's here for a free meal again," Yahiko spoke aloud. Sano gave him an angry glare. Yahiko gave a loud 'hmm!' and turned away.
"Sano-san." Aya started to say. She couldn't believe her luck. Sano was living here too? Now, she really wants to stay, just to see him often.
"So, what's going on?" Sano interrupted.
"Aya here wants to stay in the dojo.she claims that she has nowhere to stay," Kaoru replied.
"Well, welcome to the Kamiya Dojo, Kaoru will show you to your room," Sano said in a cheery tone.
"Hey! Who's the owner here?" Kaoru retorted.
"I'm just trying to be friendly," Sano protested.
"I haven't agreed to it yet."
"I have."
"Who do you think you are?"
"Umm Kaoru, Sano.lets not quarrel in front of the guest?" Kenshin tried to mediate, coming between them.
"Quiet Kenshin!"
"Yeah, I'm not finished with this tomboy yet."
"Who are you calling a tomboy?!"
"Who else?"
"Why you.you.chicken head!"
"I take that as an insult!"
"It is an insult, you jerk!"
"Umm.guys?"
"Shut up Kenshin!" They shouted together. Kenshin has a sweatdrop. Yahiko knew better than to stop their quarrelling, so he just sat there drinking tea. Aya was in a daze, admiring Sano, how muscular he is, how cute he looks when he's angry, how.
"Aya, are you all right?" Tae interrupted Aya's train of thoughts. Sano and Kaoru stopped arguing. The dojo was suddenly very quiet. Everybody stared at Aya.
"I'm.alright." Aya said, blushing at everyone's attention. Kaoru gave a cough and sat down.
"I have decided.Aya-chan, you can stay in the Kamiya dojo; and sorry about just now, it was very rude of me." Kaoru apologized. Aya was delighted.
"You are always rude." Sano injected. Kaoru turned red with anger.
"Umm.Kaoru-chan?" Kenshin tried to calm her down.
"Aya! You said you would help out right?" Kaoru shouted. Aya nodded quickly.
"Well you can start by taking Sano here to the doctor!" Kaoru continued. She picked up her pan.
KONK!!!!
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(Doctor Genzai's clinic, in a wardroom.again)
"Kaoru?" Megumi asked.
"Yup," Sano answered.
Megumi took out more bandages, and started to treat the area of Sano's head where Kaoru's pan had landed. She gave a sigh as she bandaged his head.
"Three, Sano, three times in a day.I'll give you a prize if you hit ten in a week," Megumi offered, giggling.
"Very funny.what's the prize anyway?" Sano asked curiously.
"That's a secret.but it'll be a prize especially for you," Megumi replied, flashing her famous "fox" grin. The room was silent for a while. Megumi looked out the window to note that the purpled hair lady had taken Sano here again.
"Stupid Kaoru.know I can't hit a woman." Sano mumbled.
"What has all this got to do with 'Miss Purple' over there?" Megumi asked.
"It's a long story.and her name is Aya," Sano replied.
"She's hiding something isn't she?" Megumi said seriously.
"Yup," Sano agreed.
"A mysterious lady.I sense danger Sanosuke," Megumi added.
"I know," Sano said.
"Be careful," Megumi said finally. Sano nodded, a serious expression on his face. Sano was fully aware that he might get into trouble again, but it was not like he could back out now.however, he was silently grateful for Megumi's concern. After Megumi had finished, Sano and Aya left for the Kamiya Dojo.
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(A particular room in the Kamiya Dojo)
Kaoru took Aya to her room.
"This is your room Aya.unpack quickly and join me to do some cooking," Kaoru requested.
"Thank you Ms. Kaoru, I'm very grateful that you let me stay," Aya thanked.
"It's all right.and you can just call me Kaoru," Kaoru gave her a big smile and exited.
Aya watched her leave.
"What a nice lady," Aya thought. She started to unpack her things. As she went through her stuff, she came across a little brown bag. Tears started to flow as memories started pouring in.
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(Flashback: Ten years ago, in Aya's home)
Eight-year-old Aya sat obediently in front of a man in the shadows.
"My daughter, if I do not return home in two weeks, follow the instructions in this bag. It will tell you what to do. Do not open it before that," Aya's father said. He handed her a brown bag. He rested his hands on her shoulder.
"Ayako, you must not tell anyone your real name, lie about your name. Nobody must know that you're a Sagara unless he is a Sagara himself," her father said. He came out of the shadows and into the light; his face revealed.it was the face of Captain Souza Sagara!
(Two weeks later)
Aya's father had not returned home. There was no news from him at all. Reluctantly, she opened the brown bag.it contained a letter and a small badge. She read the letter:
"Dear Ayako, if you ever read this letter, it means that you can never see father again. It is dangerous for you to stay in the village anymore. Pack all your things and leave the village immediately. Set off for somewhere far from the village and live there. Remember; never reveal your real name. If worse comes to worst, take the badge and find any of these two people: Sanosuke or Katsuhiro Sagara. They are my adopted sons; they will take care of you if they are still alive. Only in the presence of these two and people they trust can you reveal your real name. Be brave Ayako, I love you. "
Aya looked at the strange markings on the badge. Unknown to her, the markings were the symbol of the Sekihotai. Aya set off quickly, and to her luck, an elderly couple took pity in her plot and took her in. They had taken care of her for ten years; before they died of old age. Finally, she set off to Tokyo to find her two half stepbrothers, after hearing a rumor that a Sagara lived there.
(End of flashback)
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Ayako Sagara wiped the tears off her face. She finished her packing and went quickly to help Kori cook.
"Where am I going to find this Sanosuke or that Katsuhiro character?" Ayako thought sadly. Erasing the thought, she gave a cheerful smile as she entered the kitchen.
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(Kamiya Dojo living room, dinnertime)
Sano and Yahiko gasped at the delicious looking food laid out in front of them. Kenshin was helping Kaoru and Aya serve the rice. Tae had stayed for dinner, due to Kaoru's persistent pleading. Even Megumi, Ayume and Suzume were there for dinner.
"You cooked all of this, Aya?" Megumi asked.
"Yes.but Ms. Kaoru cooked the soup," Aya replied. They all started to eat.nobody touched the soup.
"Aya, your cooking is great," Kenshin praised. Aya blushed when she saw Sano eating, seemingly happy about the food. She noticed that no one touched the soup.
"Aya, you should cook more often.you have no idea what kind of junk we eat here.Ouch!" Yahiko said.as Kaoru knocked his head with a pan.
"Why isn't anybody drinking the soup?" Aya commented as she took a sip of the soup Kaoru cooked. There were sweatdrops on everyone except Aya. Everyone stopped eating.
Suddenly, it was very quiet.
Aya started to cough violently. Kaoru gave her a glass of water to drink. When she finished coughing, her face was pale, as if she had just taken poison.
"It's.the soup is wonderful Kaoru-chan.really.I could finish it all," Aya said, with a bright smile on her face. Kaoru gave a sad sigh.
"It's all right Aya.I know my cooking is bad.are you okay?" Kaoru said softly.
"I'm fine Kaoru, I just have a weak stomach that's all.and look, Mr. Himura is drinking the soup," Aya comforted. Kenshin was giving Kaoru his encouragement by drinking his bowl of soup. Just a little of it. He gave Kaoru a cute smile. She smiled back.
"Come on, let's eat.and avoid the soup! Ouch! " Sano said cheerfully, as Kaoru hit his left cheek with the pan. Hard.
"That's four Sano.I'm beginning to think you're doing all this on purpose.trying to get my attention I suppose?" Megumi commented jokingly as she placed a plaster on Sano's left cheek. Dinner had ended, and Megumi was tending to Sano's left cheek. Tae, Ayume and Suzume had gone home, Kenshin, Yahiko and Kaoru were clearing the plates, and Aya was looking at Sano, with a worried expression on her face.
"Today is just not my day," Sano replied.
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(Kamiya Dojo backyard, the next day)
Kenshin Himura woke up to a bright sunny day, ready for the day's work. As he walked towards the backyard, he heard the distant sound of wood being chopped.
"Finally, Sano is doing something for a change," Kenshin thought. To his surprise, it was not Sano, but Miss Aya herself, chopping the wood up. Kenshin rushed over immediately.
"Aya-chan! You shouldn't be doing this kind of work! Let me do it," Kenshin protested. He tried to take the axe from Aya, but she refused.
"It's all right Kenshin-san; I have done this kind of work before, back in my hometown," Aya reassured. She continued with her work, holding the axe in an odd way, bringing the axe down in a swift movement and chopped.no, sliced the wood into two, as if it were not a piece of wood, but a chunk of tofu.
"You hold the axe like a samurai holding a sword, and cut the wood like a samurai slicing the wood.I presume you are. " Kenshin observed.
"A lady who just happened to be trained how to use a sword? Even a swordswoman perhaps?" Aya interrupted with a cold expression on her face.
"Whoever taught you must be a skilled warrior himself," Kenshin probed. Aya hesitated, but still replied.
"Yes.my father taught me how to use a sword when I was at a tender age. He had told me that one must always be prepared to defend him or herself. I, being his only child, inherited his skills," Aya answered. Kenshin started to speak again, but was interrupted by Aya.
"Don't bother asking me anything else, Kenshin-san.I will never reveal my past, never," Aya persisted. Kenshin nodded in respect. Looking at Aya, the determination and sense of justice in her eyes, her sharp features, her blue headband swaying in the wind and her ability to hide her true strength, Kenshin felt that Aya looked very familiar, but he just couldn't figure it out.
Aya finished chopping the last pile of wood. She started to walk away, but Kenshin stopped her.
"Aya, you can trust everyone at the Kamiya Dojo. Nobody would despise you, or even betray you. All of us have had a bad past before, even me. If you are afraid of getting us into trouble, do not worry; all of us are skilled warriors.we'll protect you, Aya. You can tell us anything," Kenshin tried to convince. Aya looked at Kenshin gratefully, but Kenshin could tell that his pep talk had failed.
"I trust all of you with my life, Kenshin-san.that is why I agreed to stay here. I'm confident all of you can protect me.I mean, I'm sure Battosai would not fail," Aya said.
"How did you." Kenshin asked, shocked. Aya gave him a big smile.
"I'm not just an ignorant 'damsel in distress' Battosai.I come from a proud and resourceful family.someday I might just reveal which family I came from," Aya replied. Kenshin nodded.
"I'll go wash the clothes now," Aya said, before leaving. She stopped, however, and turned to Kenshin.
"I am thankful that you talked to me about this Kenshin-san.I'm glad that Battosai no longer kills, but help the innocent instead," Aya said finally.
"No, Aya, thank you, thank you very much," Kenshin replied truthfully. Aya gave him a smile and walked off.
Kenshin Himura, formerly feared by all as Hitokiri Battosai in the Tokugawa Era, had swore that he would never kill anyone anymore. He is a master of the Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu, a sword technique which focuses on the use of god- like speed and demands much concentration. As a tribute to all the people he killed, Kenshin now uses his skills to protect the weak and his loved ones. He watched Ayako Sagara, the only daughter of the late and highly respected Souza Sagara, go off to wash the clothes.
"Welcome to the Kamiya Dojo, Aya-chan.I hope I get to know your true identity soon," Kenshin whispered as an afterthought.
Kenshin did not have to wait for long.
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(Doctor Genzai's clinic, early morning)
A knock at the door startled the sleeping Megumi. Who had come this early?
"Coming!" Megumi replied, struggling to get dressed. She rushed to the door, making quite a lot of noise with her tabi sandals. As the door swung open, all Megumi could see was a huge "AKU", staring at her. Sanosuke turned around.
"Morning fox lady, just thought I drop by," he said, before showing her a badly bruised right hand, "I need those bandages again." Megumi has a sweatdrop.
So, for the.how many? Oh, for the fifth time, Megumi found herself wasting bandages on Sano again. Just as she was about to finish, there came a shout from outside.
"Oh Miss Megumi, my dear, I've come again!"
"Oh no." Megumi whispered, her face turning pale.
"'My dear'?" Sano repeated, in a sarcastic and questioning tone.
"Quick Sano, hide here!" Megumi said in an anxious tone, before pushing Sano into a large, brown cupboard.
"Hey! Why should a man like me hide in a woman's cupboard?" Sano rebuked.
"Please Sano, I'll explain later!" Megumi said. Perhaps it was the sincerity in her words, or the anxiety in her voice, that convinced the huge ego man to hide in the cupboard quietly. However, it did not stop him from opening the cupboard door, just a little, to see what was happening.
"Come in Gareth, you have come for the twelve time in two days," Megumi said tiredly to the visitor outside. From the little opening, Sano saw a tall man, with bright blue eyes and light brown hair, enter the room. He wore a sailor's suit, so Sano assumed that he was a foreigner. He seemed to be hiding something behind his back.
"You better be coming for treatment Gareth. This is a clinic, if you want to hang around for nothing, please go somewhere else," Megumi said coldly. Gareth approached closer and kneeled down, revealing a rose from behind his back.
"But I am sick Miss Megumi! I am lovesick! You have stolen my heart and all my thoughts are filled with your images!" Gareth expressed.
"Stolen my heart? Ha ha.looks like our fox lady has an admirer," Sano murmured to himself in the darkness, with a mocking smile on his face.
"Gareth, how many times must I tell you." Megumi said wearily.
"Do not reject me Miss Megumi! My love for you is deeper than the ocean! You are the most beautiful person I have ever seen! You are an angel that has fallen from the heavenly skies." Gareth said.
Sano was already red from giggling. Controlling his laughter, he listened to 'lovesick' Gareth's speech.
"Oh Gareth, please." Megumi interrupted. She was annoyed just thinking of how Sano was enjoying all this.
"Oh let me continue!" Gareth pleaded.
"Yeah, let him continue," Sano thought, chuckling even louder, "this is better than the daily news!"
"Your hair is smoother than the finest silk in the world, your eyes are shining in my heart like the sun every morning, your lips are tastier than honey, and your voice is sweeter than the best nightingale. Oh my dear, most gorgeous Miss Megumi! Your skin is more radiant than the brightest moonlight, your hands are softer than ."Gareth rattled. Sano was turning green from controlling his laughter.
"What's that sound?" Gareth suddenly said, "it sounds like.laughter?"
"Time for me to help the fox lady out," Sano thought. He emerged as stylish as he could from the cupboard. Gareth jumped back from shock.
"Wh.Who are you?! What are you doing here?" Gareth managed to say.
"That's what I should be saying! What do you think you are doing, going after my girlfriend? Who do you think you are?! " Sano rebuked, and gave him a very angry expression. Megumi's eyes grew wide with surprise and Gareth's jaws dropped. The foreigner turned to face Megumi.
"Is this true?" Gareth asked. Megumi looked at Gareth, than at Sano. Sano quickly mouthed the words: 'just play along' and gave her a wink. Megumi, understanding, rushed to Sano's side and hugged him by his waist. Sano possessively placed his right arm over her shoulder.
"Now do you understand? You better get loss before I pound your face!" Sano said fiercely, showing his left fist. "I, Sanosuke Sagara, am famous for bashing people up for no reason. If you ever dare come close to my girlfriend again, I'll personally send you back to wherever you came from," Sano narrowed his eyes, "the hard way."
Gareth got more upset when Megumi turned away, not even wanting to look at him. With eyes brimming with tears, he ran out of the clinic. Sano and Megumi waited silently until Gareth was far from hearing range. Immediately, Megumi let go of Sano and gave a sigh of relief. She was about to thank Sano when she saw him laughing and rolling on the floor.
"Hahahahahahahaha.lips tastier than honey!.hahahahahahahaha.hair like silk! Hahahahahahahaha." Sano managed to say. He was laughing so hard he had tears in his eyes. Megumi has a big sweatdrop.
"Hahahahaha.maybe if I let him continue, he might even talk about your.FEET! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! What kind of crap is that! Angel fallen from the heavenly skies? HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Sano continued. Megumi has TWO big sweatdrop. (If you want to have an idea of what Sano looks like now, refer to Samurai X manga book 5, when Sano finds out that Yahiko wants a double- edged sword.)
"What kind of rubbish is that! Voice like nightingale! More like croaking frog! HAHAHAHAHAHA.OUCH! HEY!!" Sano winced. Megumi had hit his head with her sandal.
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN 'CROAKING FROG'?!" Megumi shouted angrily. Sano was still chuckling softly.
"All right, all right, just joking.how did you end up with 'Mr. Poetry' in the first place?" Sano asked.
"Two days ago, a group of injured sailors came for treatment.Gareth was one of them.After looking at me, he thought I was the one for him.you know, the 'love at first sight' thing?...he comes every two hours, sometimes peeping from the window.he once even cut himself so that I can give him treatment," Megumi replied sadly.
"And I just happen to be here when he makes his love confession.great.but, he sounds sincere though.why don't you accept him? He looks like a nice guy.just a little crappy," Sano asked innocently. Megumi became angry.
"What! Do you think I'm the sort of person who will go off with a man I hardly know?" Megumi retorted.
"Well, you did follow Kenshin and me back to the dojo then." Sano started to say, but Megumi's cold stare cut him off, "all right, I'll keep quiet.don't worry, that Gareth character won't dare to come again.if he does, I'll break his neck."
"Oh, getting jealous Sano, maybe even possessive? Well, well, looks like I have another admirer." Megumi teased, stroking Sano's cheek. Sano backed off, annoyed.
"Always a fox." Sano murmured. He started to giggle again, "wait till the others hear about this. 'Female Doctor Pestered by Wandering Sailor'.I can't wait to see Kenshin's reaction."
"Sano, please don't tell anyone!" Megumi said anxiously. Sano place his left hand on her shoulder.
"Don't worry, your secret is save with me, this is just between you and me.and that irritating sailor," Sano answered. He gave her a reassuring smile.
"Thank you Sano, thank you for everything," Megumi said gratefully, "how can I repay you?"
"Well, you can start by finishing the bandaging of my right hand," Sano replied. They smiled at each other and Megumi helped to treat Sano's wound as best as she could. They had a lovely time joking at what Gareth had said, and Sano even stayed for breakfast.
On the other hand, our lovesick Gareth was very upset. What both Megumi and Sanosuke did not realize was that Gareth had a friend who was extremely talkative and loved spreading the latest news and rumors. By that afternoon, almost everyone had heard that Sanosuke Sagara was Megumi Takani, the beautiful female doctor's BOYFRIEND!
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Author's Notes: Hehehe.I just thought of the Gareth part when I was bathing.this idea suddenly came to my head.now I'm not sure how to continue (sweatdrop)
Author's Notes: This story is so not finished.if you wish to know what happens next, you probably have to wait for a while.very busy.sorry! Note: I watched the English version of the anime, so I might accidentally use some terms are from there.however, I will try to use Jap terms and names as best as I can.
Disclaimer: I do not own Samurai X (or though I wish I could.). I'm just one of the fans of the anime/manga.
Alright! Let's start the story!!!!
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(Flashback: Near the end of the Tokugawa Era, in the camp of the Sekihotai)
"If you had a daughter, Captain Sagara, what would you call her?"
Souza Sagara winced at the little boy's question and looked down from his sake. He had called his two adopted sons into the tent to have a drink together, and their light conversation had aroused the curious child. The other, Katsuhiro, looked up from his water too.
"I would call her.Ayako Sagara," he replied.
"Why the interest Sano, want to marry his daughter and be a true Sagara? I'm sure Captain Sagara won't mind," Katsuhiro teased.
"Don't worry Sano, I'll let you have her," Souza joked.
Sanosuke Sagara became angry and crossed his arms, as if the child's pride had been snatched away. Souza could not help but burst out laughing. The two children joined in the laughter too.
(End of flashback)
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(Meiji Era, backyard in Doctor Genzai's clinic)
"You know Sanosuke, you're probably the most accident-prone person I have ever seen. You're injured almost everyday," Megumi Takani exclaimed as she tended to Sanosuke Sagara's injured right hand. Doctor Genzai had gone to pick herbs in the mountains again, leaving the clinic and all its patients for her to handle alone.
"Well, you're the only female doctor I've ever seen," Sano retaliated. This much was probably true; in an ancient time like the Meiji Era, there was still the idea that females are unable to do important jobs, like being a doctor. In another words, they were regarded as the 'lesser sex'. In fact, many of the patients had questioned Megumi's capability as a doctor, even though she belonged to the respected Takani family of Aizu, who were well-known and respected for their medical background, and all generations of their family studied medicine, including women and children. Sano knew all this of course, including the fact that her father was killed and that her mother and two brothers went missing in the Battle of Aizu almost ten years ago.
"What is it this time Sano? Let me guess.gang fight? Gambling? Drink Fight? Or did you just run off without paying for your meal again?" Megumi teased. The beautiful doctor seemed to be in a cheerful mood today.
Sano stood up angrily. "Hey! I'm not that bad."he sat down quietly.
"Gambling," he admitted. Megumi gave a sigh. True, you can always count on Sano to be in trouble, but Megumi did not like the idea of having to see Sano come in injured all the time.After all, Sano was one of her close friends, along with all the others at the Kamiya Dojo. Out of them all, Megumi treasured Sano's friendship the most. She could still remember that faithful day, when Sano snatched the blade of the knife away using his bare hands, because she was trying to cut her wrist and end her tedious life. In fact, it was this same hand that she was bandaging which made her the doctor she was today.
Sano watched as Megumi's smooth hand carefully, yet skillfully, wound the bandages around his hand. Like everyday for work, Megumi was wearing her pale lavender kimono, with the darker michiyuki jacket over it. Today however, she had tied her hair up like Kaoru, and wore little lipstick. Although she looked paler, Sano could still feel the fox lady's happiness radiating out of her as she does what she loves best: saving people. Looking at her now, Sano was reminded why he had so crazily gripped the blade of the knife, not caring about his own hand, just to save this woman who had indirectly killed one of his best friends. In fact, it was this same hand that he had injured which saved her life...
For a moment, both of them did not do anything else, except stare at Sano's right hand. Both of them looked up at the same time, making eye contact, before Megumi broke it off and continued her work, bowing her head low. Sano pretended that he was just looking at some bush behind her. Out of the corner of his eye, Sano saw Megumi.blush? Was that what he was seeing? He was not sure.
"You should behave less roughly Sano.considering that I offer you treatment for free." Megumi said, back to her normal state. Sano has a sweatdrop.
"About the free treatment." Sano said, embarrassed. Now it was his turn to blush, but not like the way Sano thought he had seen Megumi had just now.
".Besides, acting so rough and totally ungentlemanly won't get you any girlfriend," Megumi interrupted.
"Why? Interested?" Sano prompted, leaning closer.
"Over my dead body," Megumi replied bluntly, not even looking up from bandaging his hand.
"That's what I thought," Sano said lazily.
"Anyway, think about what I've said," Megumi said.
"Over my dead body," Sano imitated, in the same dead serious voice as Megumi had. They looked at each other and laughed. Megumi finishes the dressing of his wound.
"There, all done. Try not to lift heavy things with your right hand.I mean it. No punches with that hand," Megumi insisted as Sano started to stand up. He gave a careless nod.
"Visit you soon, fox lady," Sano said.
"Not so soon, punk, I'll run out of bandages if you come this often," Megumi joked. She watched as Sano left the clinic, admiring his back view. The word "Aku" (which means evil) stood out against Sano's white gi, with the ends of his red bandana fluttering in the gentle breeze, and his 'chicken-head' hair swaying in the wind. As usual, Sano had his hands in his pocket and walked with a proud stride. Sometimes, Megumi thought, Sano looked so handsome.As if hearing her thoughts, Sano stopped and turned around slightly, giving her a warm smile before moving out of sight. She waved good-bye to him, and returned to her work in the clinic.
"Maybe she's right.whatever.I'll have some sake at Akabeko's.maybe ask a few friends along too." Sano thought as he left the clinic.
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(A street in Tokyo)
Meanwhile, Tae Sekihara, a waitress at Akabeko was rushing to work. The Akabeko was a restaurant situated at the central part of Tokyo, and was one of the few restaurants which served the newest dish in town: beef pot. Customers were led to cubicles, (which increased privacy) and a stove was placed at the center of the table for the cooking. Many people love to go there as a special treat, especially a particular strong-willed dojo mistress.
"Oh no, I'm late! Boss will be SO angry," Tae thought. She was silently angry at herself too; it was her working habit to be punctual at all times, especially since she was working at the Akabeko, which was always very busy. She was already feeling guilty thinking about how poor little Tsubame was doing all the work. In her hurry, she dropped her apron in the middle of the road. She bent down to pick it up quickly.
"Watch out!" a voice cried out.
"What?" Tae turned.and saw a carriage charging straight towards her! She stood there frozen with fright. Strong arms groped around her and pushed her out of the way. Both figures crashed onto the safety of the pavement. The carriage sped past.
"Watch where you're going!" shouted the carriage driver, before the carriage sped away from sight. Tae turned and came face to face with her savior.
Surprisingly, the strong arms which held her so tightly did not belong to a man, but a lady of about the same age as her! The first thing she noticed was her lovely, dark purple locks, with a blue headband around her forehead. Her features were elegant and angelic, with a perfectly shaped mouth and stunning purple eyes. Tae felt that this woman was probably even more beautiful than Miss Megumi or Miss Kaoru.
"Are you all right?" The lady asked anxiously. She helped Tae to stand up. Tae observed that the lady had a similar build as Kaoru. She wore a blue kimono and had a small bundle slugged over her shoulder.
"You.I'm alright.thank you very much for saving my life," Tae managed to say. At a closer look, Tae saw that the lady's kimono was covered with dirt.
"Oh no! Your kimono is dirty!" Tae exclaimed. The lady glanced down at her kimono and looked up again, smiling.
"It doesn't matter." The lady said.
"No! Please.come to the restaurant I work in.I'll help you clean up," Tae insisted, further examining the state of the kimono.
"Umm.I." The lady began to protest. However, Tae was already dragging her to the back of the restaurant.
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(A room in the back of the Akabeko)
In the back room, the lady had her clothes changed. Tae offered to wash the clothes for her, so the lady sat down uncomfortably and watched Tae wash the kimono.
"Thank you Miss Sekihara," the lady said gratefully.
"Call me Tae.washing is nothing actually.you saved my life, I can't thank you enough Miss."
The lady hesitated in answering. "You can call me Aya.I can't tell you my full name.it might get you into trouble," Aya bowed her head down in shame. Tae stopped her washing and went over to Aya, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Aya it is then. Don't worry; I've met people who are in trouble everyday and they're fine now. Is there anything I can do to help you? Anything at all?" Tae comforted.
Aya looked at Tae with hope. She then related her story to Tae: Aya's mother had died when she was very young. She was raised by her father in a small village in the outskirts of Kyoto. However, when she was eight years old, her father left her, telling her not to reveal her surname no matter what happens. Although he never told her anything, Aya had guessed that her father was part of some secret mission group and that he plays a big part in bringing the end of the chaotic Tokugawa Era and bring about a new Era- The Meiji Era. Aya never saw her father again, and was left with a pouch with direct instructions on what she should do.
"So, here I am, in Tokyo.all alone, no home." Tears start to form in Aya's eyes. Tae tried to comfort her by giving her a hug.
".No job." Aya continued.
"Wait! I can get you a job!" Tae interrupted, suddenly bursting with energy. Aya looked at her in confusion.
"You can work here! In the Akabeko! A waitress recently went back to her hometown.you can take her place! As for where to live.I know a place which can take you in.I'll take you there after the day's work is done," Tae said excitedly, with her eyes bubbling. Aya considered the idea: it certainly sounds like a good idea and a great help to her. A moment later her eyes were bubbling like Tae's.0.0
"Can you start work now?" Tae asked.
"Of course!" Aya replied excitedly.
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(In Akabeko restaurant, a particular booth)
Sano entered the Akabeko with some of his friends. They sat at their usual booth in the corner and drank some sake, talking about the recent events. However, when they have had enough, a new purple-haired lady wearing the Akabeko uniform approached to clear the plates, instead of the usual waitresses like Tae.
"Hey you're new here, aren't you? What's your name?" asked Sano's friend.
"Umm.yes.I'm Aya," Aya replied shyly.
"You're a cutie, want to go out some time?" prompted another friend. Aya blushed, panicking when he tried to pull her closer.
"Back off, leave the lady alone," Sano ordered. The moment he dropped her hand, Aya quickly backed off. Sano stood up and turned to Aya.
"Sorry about that." Sano apologized; he turned to his friends, "come on guys, let's go." They left Akabeko at Sano's prompt. He made sure he was the last to leave.
Before Sano left however, he turned and gave Aya a smile. Aya blushed a deep red and stood there for a moment.before realizing that they had not paid for their food. Aya rushed out immediately.
"Hey! You haven't paid!" Aya shouted.
"Settle it with Tae, new girl," Sano replied, without even looking back. Later, Tae explained to Aya about Sano. He never pays for his food, always agreeing to pay back later. However, Sano brings customers to them, so Tae lets him eat free. Tae tells her that Sano is a nice man, with a strong sense of justice. Aya was mesmerized already.
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(On a deserted street, on the way to the well)
Tae had sent Aya to the well to fetch some water. As she walked, she thought of her accouter with the guy called Sano. He was handsome of course; with sharp, distinguished features and that charming smile. It was an added bonus that he had an excellent build, with his muscular chest showing from his opened gi. However, Aya's good impression of him was mostly due to his friendliness and charisma. She decided that this Sano person was quite good after all. She was about to turn into a corner when she knocked into someone.
"Where are you going, gorgeous?" The person asked, malevolent grin on his face. It was a very tall and muscular man, with a livid scar across his forehead and wearing an utterly unkempt outfit. It did not take an expert to tell he was bad company. Aya tried to turn and run, but the man stopped her tracks and drove her to a corner.
"Come on, I just want to be your friend, hehe." The man reached out and grabbed Aya's arm. Aya started to reach for her hidden.
"You have a strange way to make friends," a voice in the shadow said. The huge man dropped Aya. She quickly kept what she was about to take out.
"Who are you? Busybody, get lost before I flatten you!" the man threatened.
"I don't think so." the figure stepped out of the shadow, "and who am I? I think you are too pathetic to have my name." he positioned himself to attack.
"Mr. Sano!" Aya shouted from behind. Sanosuke Sagara nearly fell down.
"You. Are. Not. Supposed. To. Give. My. NAME!!!" Sano said, giving a frustrated look to her. Aya has a sweatdrop. She covered her mouth quickly.
"Oh.opps.I'm so sorry!" Aya whispered. Sano has a sweatdrop.
"Too late.anyway. you'd better get lost.before I break your bones!" Sano shouted to the bully and charged. Despite the man's huge build, he was no match for the strong and skilled Sano. The man was down in a minute. Sano brushed his hands.
"Like I said, pathetic." Sano said lazily.
"Not.so.fast." The man staggered up. Sano has a sweatdrop. He gave a sigh.
"Guess I just have to really knock you unconscious, close your eyes lady.Yah!" Sano jumped into the air and aimed to deliver a deadly kick. Suddenly, the man drew a weapon from his pocket.a gun!
A shot rang clear into the air.
Both men were standing. A second later, Sano grabbed his left arm in pain. Another second later, the huge man collapsed to the ground, unconscious. Aya rushed to Sano's side.
"Thank you for saving me, are you al.oh no!" Aya exclaimed when she saw Sano's bleeding left arm. The bullet had hit his arm even as Sano had knocked the bully's brains out. Blood stained his hands even as he endured the pain.
"Just a small wound." Sano reassured. He winced in pain. "On second thought, care to take me to the doctor?"
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(Doctor Genzai's clinic, in a wardroom)
Megumi retrieved the bullet from Sano's arm before starting to dress the wound.
"Tsk tsk, second time today.when I warn you about your right hand, you get your left arm shot, tsk tsk, and I guess I really need to buy more bandages especially for you.and I don't even want to guess what happened. " Megumi noted, shaking her head in dismay. Sano gave her an evil look. Megumi just smiled slyly.
"It's a special case," Sano answered. Megumi looked out of the window to see a very anxious Aya pacing in the backyard.
"Yes.hmm.interesting.damsel in distress and Mr. Accident-prone-I-can-do- anything-Sano saves her.never heard that reason from you before.cute damsel though." Megumi analyzed. Her fox ears had already popped out.
"Just bandage my arm, fox lady," Sano interrupted, scorning. Megumi giggled in delight.
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(Street outside the clinic)
After the 'scorning' by Megumi, Aya and Sano left the clinic and walked for a while. There was some tension at first, but Aya soon broke the ice.
"Thank you Mr. Sano," Aya said shyly.
"Just Sano.it was nothing; I hate jerks who bully girls.so what's your family name anyway?" Sano inquired. Aya stopped in her tracks.
"But.?" Aya began to ask.
"Nobody's name is just 'Aya'. You're hiding your surname.why?" Sano persisted. Aya kept quiet for a while.
"I'll get many people into trouble if I reveal my full name.so.I." Aya managed to say. Sano looked at her curiously. For a moment, Aya's features looked very familiar.
"Want to know my full name?" Sano interrupted. Aya nodded curiously.
"But I'll probably get many people into trouble if I reveal my full name." Sano imitated, giving her a mischievous smile. Both of them burst out laughing.
"Good bye Miss Aya," Sano finally said.
"Just Aya," Aya joked. Both of them smiled.
"Goodbye Aya."
"Goodbye Sano."
Aya stayed for a while, looking at Sano's back profile. She could not help but feel a reluctance to leave, but she still had work to do. As she rushed back to Akabeko, she remembered Sano's bright smile. She blushed heavily.
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(At the door of the Kamiya Dojo, evening)
Tae and Aya stood outside the door of the Kamiya Dojo. Aya felt very nervous.
"This is the place I told you about Aya, they're a nice bunch of people.Ms. Kaoru is a very kind person, I'm sure she'll take you in," Tae said cheerfully.
"But what if.this is a dojo.what if." Aya protested nervously.
"Don't worry.if it helps, someone visits this dojo often," Tae giggles uncontrollably, "especially when it's mealtime."
"Hoi?" Aya questioned. She was about to ask further when the door opened. A friendly looking lady with long blue hair appeared, along with two little girls behind her. Aya felt so nervous she started to shake.
"Tae-chan! Come on in.hello Ms." Kaoru greeted. Kaoru Kamiya, the mistress and teacher of the Kamiya Dojo. She teaches the style of Kamiya Kashin Ryu, the sword of life, to her disciples.
"Aya," she replied in a hoarse voice.
"Aya! Aya! Ha ha!" Ayume and Suzume chorused, before bursting into a series of laughter. They returned to the house. Kaoru smiled.
"Come in Tae-chan, nice to meet you Aya-chan, come in," Kaoru welcomed. They entered the door. Aya marveled at the beautiful backyard. She spotted a red haired man sweeping the floor. He looked strangely familiar.
"Look Kenshin! Tae-chan is here!" Ms. Kaoru called out to the person. Kenshin Himura put down the broom and turned around. Aya was shocked to see the 'X' scar across his left cheek. However, Mr. Kenshin gave a bright and friendly smile.
"Welcome Tae-chan." Kenshin turned to Aya, "and you are."
"My name is Aya," Aya replied.
"Kombawa, Aya-chan, I'm Kenshin Himura.You know, I heard it's rude to not give someone their full name when asked," Kenshin said, still having a wide smile on his lips. Aya became very nervous. Kaoru looked puzzled.
"We have something important to discuss with all of you," Tae interrupted.
"Well.come on in then. Kenshin, call Yahiko," Kaoru said.
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(In the hall of the Kamiya Dojo)
Soon, all of them gathered in the hall. Tae told them the purpose of their visit, and explained Aya's situation.
"So, I hope that you can accept her in, Aya really has nowhere to go. I wish to let her stay in the dojo, a place where she can call home," Tae concluded. Aya bent her head down.
"Please accept me in.I can do anything." Aya rattled. Kaoru held her up, telling her it was not necessary.
"I can do washing, cooking." Aya continued.
"Cooking! Boy do we need a decent cook around here.Ouch!" Yahiko Myoujin interrupted. Kaoru had hit Yahiko's head with a pan. After a twist of faith, Yahiko is now the only disciple left in the dojo. Kaoru teaches him and even provides the basic needs for him. Yahiko respects her very much, but sometimes, Yahiko just cannot keep his big mouth shut. ;o
"What do you mean by 'need a decent cook'?" Kaoru confronted. Yahiko started to apologize.
"Why the big gathering? Well, well.who do we have here?" said a voice. They all turned to the door. Sano stood leaning against the door. Aya was shocked to see him there. Sano strolled in and sat down beside Aya.
"Hi," Sano greeted her, with a smile on his face. Kenshin noticed that Aya had started to blush. He chuckled at Aya's reaction.
"He's here for a free meal again," Yahiko spoke aloud. Sano gave him an angry glare. Yahiko gave a loud 'hmm!' and turned away.
"Sano-san." Aya started to say. She couldn't believe her luck. Sano was living here too? Now, she really wants to stay, just to see him often.
"So, what's going on?" Sano interrupted.
"Aya here wants to stay in the dojo.she claims that she has nowhere to stay," Kaoru replied.
"Well, welcome to the Kamiya Dojo, Kaoru will show you to your room," Sano said in a cheery tone.
"Hey! Who's the owner here?" Kaoru retorted.
"I'm just trying to be friendly," Sano protested.
"I haven't agreed to it yet."
"I have."
"Who do you think you are?"
"Umm Kaoru, Sano.lets not quarrel in front of the guest?" Kenshin tried to mediate, coming between them.
"Quiet Kenshin!"
"Yeah, I'm not finished with this tomboy yet."
"Who are you calling a tomboy?!"
"Who else?"
"Why you.you.chicken head!"
"I take that as an insult!"
"It is an insult, you jerk!"
"Umm.guys?"
"Shut up Kenshin!" They shouted together. Kenshin has a sweatdrop. Yahiko knew better than to stop their quarrelling, so he just sat there drinking tea. Aya was in a daze, admiring Sano, how muscular he is, how cute he looks when he's angry, how.
"Aya, are you all right?" Tae interrupted Aya's train of thoughts. Sano and Kaoru stopped arguing. The dojo was suddenly very quiet. Everybody stared at Aya.
"I'm.alright." Aya said, blushing at everyone's attention. Kaoru gave a cough and sat down.
"I have decided.Aya-chan, you can stay in the Kamiya dojo; and sorry about just now, it was very rude of me." Kaoru apologized. Aya was delighted.
"You are always rude." Sano injected. Kaoru turned red with anger.
"Umm.Kaoru-chan?" Kenshin tried to calm her down.
"Aya! You said you would help out right?" Kaoru shouted. Aya nodded quickly.
"Well you can start by taking Sano here to the doctor!" Kaoru continued. She picked up her pan.
KONK!!!!
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(Doctor Genzai's clinic, in a wardroom.again)
"Kaoru?" Megumi asked.
"Yup," Sano answered.
Megumi took out more bandages, and started to treat the area of Sano's head where Kaoru's pan had landed. She gave a sigh as she bandaged his head.
"Three, Sano, three times in a day.I'll give you a prize if you hit ten in a week," Megumi offered, giggling.
"Very funny.what's the prize anyway?" Sano asked curiously.
"That's a secret.but it'll be a prize especially for you," Megumi replied, flashing her famous "fox" grin. The room was silent for a while. Megumi looked out the window to note that the purpled hair lady had taken Sano here again.
"Stupid Kaoru.know I can't hit a woman." Sano mumbled.
"What has all this got to do with 'Miss Purple' over there?" Megumi asked.
"It's a long story.and her name is Aya," Sano replied.
"She's hiding something isn't she?" Megumi said seriously.
"Yup," Sano agreed.
"A mysterious lady.I sense danger Sanosuke," Megumi added.
"I know," Sano said.
"Be careful," Megumi said finally. Sano nodded, a serious expression on his face. Sano was fully aware that he might get into trouble again, but it was not like he could back out now.however, he was silently grateful for Megumi's concern. After Megumi had finished, Sano and Aya left for the Kamiya Dojo.
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(A particular room in the Kamiya Dojo)
Kaoru took Aya to her room.
"This is your room Aya.unpack quickly and join me to do some cooking," Kaoru requested.
"Thank you Ms. Kaoru, I'm very grateful that you let me stay," Aya thanked.
"It's all right.and you can just call me Kaoru," Kaoru gave her a big smile and exited.
Aya watched her leave.
"What a nice lady," Aya thought. She started to unpack her things. As she went through her stuff, she came across a little brown bag. Tears started to flow as memories started pouring in.
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(Flashback: Ten years ago, in Aya's home)
Eight-year-old Aya sat obediently in front of a man in the shadows.
"My daughter, if I do not return home in two weeks, follow the instructions in this bag. It will tell you what to do. Do not open it before that," Aya's father said. He handed her a brown bag. He rested his hands on her shoulder.
"Ayako, you must not tell anyone your real name, lie about your name. Nobody must know that you're a Sagara unless he is a Sagara himself," her father said. He came out of the shadows and into the light; his face revealed.it was the face of Captain Souza Sagara!
(Two weeks later)
Aya's father had not returned home. There was no news from him at all. Reluctantly, she opened the brown bag.it contained a letter and a small badge. She read the letter:
"Dear Ayako, if you ever read this letter, it means that you can never see father again. It is dangerous for you to stay in the village anymore. Pack all your things and leave the village immediately. Set off for somewhere far from the village and live there. Remember; never reveal your real name. If worse comes to worst, take the badge and find any of these two people: Sanosuke or Katsuhiro Sagara. They are my adopted sons; they will take care of you if they are still alive. Only in the presence of these two and people they trust can you reveal your real name. Be brave Ayako, I love you. "
Aya looked at the strange markings on the badge. Unknown to her, the markings were the symbol of the Sekihotai. Aya set off quickly, and to her luck, an elderly couple took pity in her plot and took her in. They had taken care of her for ten years; before they died of old age. Finally, she set off to Tokyo to find her two half stepbrothers, after hearing a rumor that a Sagara lived there.
(End of flashback)
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Ayako Sagara wiped the tears off her face. She finished her packing and went quickly to help Kori cook.
"Where am I going to find this Sanosuke or that Katsuhiro character?" Ayako thought sadly. Erasing the thought, she gave a cheerful smile as she entered the kitchen.
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(Kamiya Dojo living room, dinnertime)
Sano and Yahiko gasped at the delicious looking food laid out in front of them. Kenshin was helping Kaoru and Aya serve the rice. Tae had stayed for dinner, due to Kaoru's persistent pleading. Even Megumi, Ayume and Suzume were there for dinner.
"You cooked all of this, Aya?" Megumi asked.
"Yes.but Ms. Kaoru cooked the soup," Aya replied. They all started to eat.nobody touched the soup.
"Aya, your cooking is great," Kenshin praised. Aya blushed when she saw Sano eating, seemingly happy about the food. She noticed that no one touched the soup.
"Aya, you should cook more often.you have no idea what kind of junk we eat here.Ouch!" Yahiko said.as Kaoru knocked his head with a pan.
"Why isn't anybody drinking the soup?" Aya commented as she took a sip of the soup Kaoru cooked. There were sweatdrops on everyone except Aya. Everyone stopped eating.
Suddenly, it was very quiet.
Aya started to cough violently. Kaoru gave her a glass of water to drink. When she finished coughing, her face was pale, as if she had just taken poison.
"It's.the soup is wonderful Kaoru-chan.really.I could finish it all," Aya said, with a bright smile on her face. Kaoru gave a sad sigh.
"It's all right Aya.I know my cooking is bad.are you okay?" Kaoru said softly.
"I'm fine Kaoru, I just have a weak stomach that's all.and look, Mr. Himura is drinking the soup," Aya comforted. Kenshin was giving Kaoru his encouragement by drinking his bowl of soup. Just a little of it. He gave Kaoru a cute smile. She smiled back.
"Come on, let's eat.and avoid the soup! Ouch! " Sano said cheerfully, as Kaoru hit his left cheek with the pan. Hard.
"That's four Sano.I'm beginning to think you're doing all this on purpose.trying to get my attention I suppose?" Megumi commented jokingly as she placed a plaster on Sano's left cheek. Dinner had ended, and Megumi was tending to Sano's left cheek. Tae, Ayume and Suzume had gone home, Kenshin, Yahiko and Kaoru were clearing the plates, and Aya was looking at Sano, with a worried expression on her face.
"Today is just not my day," Sano replied.
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(Kamiya Dojo backyard, the next day)
Kenshin Himura woke up to a bright sunny day, ready for the day's work. As he walked towards the backyard, he heard the distant sound of wood being chopped.
"Finally, Sano is doing something for a change," Kenshin thought. To his surprise, it was not Sano, but Miss Aya herself, chopping the wood up. Kenshin rushed over immediately.
"Aya-chan! You shouldn't be doing this kind of work! Let me do it," Kenshin protested. He tried to take the axe from Aya, but she refused.
"It's all right Kenshin-san; I have done this kind of work before, back in my hometown," Aya reassured. She continued with her work, holding the axe in an odd way, bringing the axe down in a swift movement and chopped.no, sliced the wood into two, as if it were not a piece of wood, but a chunk of tofu.
"You hold the axe like a samurai holding a sword, and cut the wood like a samurai slicing the wood.I presume you are. " Kenshin observed.
"A lady who just happened to be trained how to use a sword? Even a swordswoman perhaps?" Aya interrupted with a cold expression on her face.
"Whoever taught you must be a skilled warrior himself," Kenshin probed. Aya hesitated, but still replied.
"Yes.my father taught me how to use a sword when I was at a tender age. He had told me that one must always be prepared to defend him or herself. I, being his only child, inherited his skills," Aya answered. Kenshin started to speak again, but was interrupted by Aya.
"Don't bother asking me anything else, Kenshin-san.I will never reveal my past, never," Aya persisted. Kenshin nodded in respect. Looking at Aya, the determination and sense of justice in her eyes, her sharp features, her blue headband swaying in the wind and her ability to hide her true strength, Kenshin felt that Aya looked very familiar, but he just couldn't figure it out.
Aya finished chopping the last pile of wood. She started to walk away, but Kenshin stopped her.
"Aya, you can trust everyone at the Kamiya Dojo. Nobody would despise you, or even betray you. All of us have had a bad past before, even me. If you are afraid of getting us into trouble, do not worry; all of us are skilled warriors.we'll protect you, Aya. You can tell us anything," Kenshin tried to convince. Aya looked at Kenshin gratefully, but Kenshin could tell that his pep talk had failed.
"I trust all of you with my life, Kenshin-san.that is why I agreed to stay here. I'm confident all of you can protect me.I mean, I'm sure Battosai would not fail," Aya said.
"How did you." Kenshin asked, shocked. Aya gave him a big smile.
"I'm not just an ignorant 'damsel in distress' Battosai.I come from a proud and resourceful family.someday I might just reveal which family I came from," Aya replied. Kenshin nodded.
"I'll go wash the clothes now," Aya said, before leaving. She stopped, however, and turned to Kenshin.
"I am thankful that you talked to me about this Kenshin-san.I'm glad that Battosai no longer kills, but help the innocent instead," Aya said finally.
"No, Aya, thank you, thank you very much," Kenshin replied truthfully. Aya gave him a smile and walked off.
Kenshin Himura, formerly feared by all as Hitokiri Battosai in the Tokugawa Era, had swore that he would never kill anyone anymore. He is a master of the Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu, a sword technique which focuses on the use of god- like speed and demands much concentration. As a tribute to all the people he killed, Kenshin now uses his skills to protect the weak and his loved ones. He watched Ayako Sagara, the only daughter of the late and highly respected Souza Sagara, go off to wash the clothes.
"Welcome to the Kamiya Dojo, Aya-chan.I hope I get to know your true identity soon," Kenshin whispered as an afterthought.
Kenshin did not have to wait for long.
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(Doctor Genzai's clinic, early morning)
A knock at the door startled the sleeping Megumi. Who had come this early?
"Coming!" Megumi replied, struggling to get dressed. She rushed to the door, making quite a lot of noise with her tabi sandals. As the door swung open, all Megumi could see was a huge "AKU", staring at her. Sanosuke turned around.
"Morning fox lady, just thought I drop by," he said, before showing her a badly bruised right hand, "I need those bandages again." Megumi has a sweatdrop.
So, for the.how many? Oh, for the fifth time, Megumi found herself wasting bandages on Sano again. Just as she was about to finish, there came a shout from outside.
"Oh Miss Megumi, my dear, I've come again!"
"Oh no." Megumi whispered, her face turning pale.
"'My dear'?" Sano repeated, in a sarcastic and questioning tone.
"Quick Sano, hide here!" Megumi said in an anxious tone, before pushing Sano into a large, brown cupboard.
"Hey! Why should a man like me hide in a woman's cupboard?" Sano rebuked.
"Please Sano, I'll explain later!" Megumi said. Perhaps it was the sincerity in her words, or the anxiety in her voice, that convinced the huge ego man to hide in the cupboard quietly. However, it did not stop him from opening the cupboard door, just a little, to see what was happening.
"Come in Gareth, you have come for the twelve time in two days," Megumi said tiredly to the visitor outside. From the little opening, Sano saw a tall man, with bright blue eyes and light brown hair, enter the room. He wore a sailor's suit, so Sano assumed that he was a foreigner. He seemed to be hiding something behind his back.
"You better be coming for treatment Gareth. This is a clinic, if you want to hang around for nothing, please go somewhere else," Megumi said coldly. Gareth approached closer and kneeled down, revealing a rose from behind his back.
"But I am sick Miss Megumi! I am lovesick! You have stolen my heart and all my thoughts are filled with your images!" Gareth expressed.
"Stolen my heart? Ha ha.looks like our fox lady has an admirer," Sano murmured to himself in the darkness, with a mocking smile on his face.
"Gareth, how many times must I tell you." Megumi said wearily.
"Do not reject me Miss Megumi! My love for you is deeper than the ocean! You are the most beautiful person I have ever seen! You are an angel that has fallen from the heavenly skies." Gareth said.
Sano was already red from giggling. Controlling his laughter, he listened to 'lovesick' Gareth's speech.
"Oh Gareth, please." Megumi interrupted. She was annoyed just thinking of how Sano was enjoying all this.
"Oh let me continue!" Gareth pleaded.
"Yeah, let him continue," Sano thought, chuckling even louder, "this is better than the daily news!"
"Your hair is smoother than the finest silk in the world, your eyes are shining in my heart like the sun every morning, your lips are tastier than honey, and your voice is sweeter than the best nightingale. Oh my dear, most gorgeous Miss Megumi! Your skin is more radiant than the brightest moonlight, your hands are softer than ."Gareth rattled. Sano was turning green from controlling his laughter.
"What's that sound?" Gareth suddenly said, "it sounds like.laughter?"
"Time for me to help the fox lady out," Sano thought. He emerged as stylish as he could from the cupboard. Gareth jumped back from shock.
"Wh.Who are you?! What are you doing here?" Gareth managed to say.
"That's what I should be saying! What do you think you are doing, going after my girlfriend? Who do you think you are?! " Sano rebuked, and gave him a very angry expression. Megumi's eyes grew wide with surprise and Gareth's jaws dropped. The foreigner turned to face Megumi.
"Is this true?" Gareth asked. Megumi looked at Gareth, than at Sano. Sano quickly mouthed the words: 'just play along' and gave her a wink. Megumi, understanding, rushed to Sano's side and hugged him by his waist. Sano possessively placed his right arm over her shoulder.
"Now do you understand? You better get loss before I pound your face!" Sano said fiercely, showing his left fist. "I, Sanosuke Sagara, am famous for bashing people up for no reason. If you ever dare come close to my girlfriend again, I'll personally send you back to wherever you came from," Sano narrowed his eyes, "the hard way."
Gareth got more upset when Megumi turned away, not even wanting to look at him. With eyes brimming with tears, he ran out of the clinic. Sano and Megumi waited silently until Gareth was far from hearing range. Immediately, Megumi let go of Sano and gave a sigh of relief. She was about to thank Sano when she saw him laughing and rolling on the floor.
"Hahahahahahahaha.lips tastier than honey!.hahahahahahahaha.hair like silk! Hahahahahahahaha." Sano managed to say. He was laughing so hard he had tears in his eyes. Megumi has a big sweatdrop.
"Hahahahaha.maybe if I let him continue, he might even talk about your.FEET! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! What kind of crap is that! Angel fallen from the heavenly skies? HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Sano continued. Megumi has TWO big sweatdrop. (If you want to have an idea of what Sano looks like now, refer to Samurai X manga book 5, when Sano finds out that Yahiko wants a double- edged sword.)
"What kind of rubbish is that! Voice like nightingale! More like croaking frog! HAHAHAHAHAHA.OUCH! HEY!!" Sano winced. Megumi had hit his head with her sandal.
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN 'CROAKING FROG'?!" Megumi shouted angrily. Sano was still chuckling softly.
"All right, all right, just joking.how did you end up with 'Mr. Poetry' in the first place?" Sano asked.
"Two days ago, a group of injured sailors came for treatment.Gareth was one of them.After looking at me, he thought I was the one for him.you know, the 'love at first sight' thing?...he comes every two hours, sometimes peeping from the window.he once even cut himself so that I can give him treatment," Megumi replied sadly.
"And I just happen to be here when he makes his love confession.great.but, he sounds sincere though.why don't you accept him? He looks like a nice guy.just a little crappy," Sano asked innocently. Megumi became angry.
"What! Do you think I'm the sort of person who will go off with a man I hardly know?" Megumi retorted.
"Well, you did follow Kenshin and me back to the dojo then." Sano started to say, but Megumi's cold stare cut him off, "all right, I'll keep quiet.don't worry, that Gareth character won't dare to come again.if he does, I'll break his neck."
"Oh, getting jealous Sano, maybe even possessive? Well, well, looks like I have another admirer." Megumi teased, stroking Sano's cheek. Sano backed off, annoyed.
"Always a fox." Sano murmured. He started to giggle again, "wait till the others hear about this. 'Female Doctor Pestered by Wandering Sailor'.I can't wait to see Kenshin's reaction."
"Sano, please don't tell anyone!" Megumi said anxiously. Sano place his left hand on her shoulder.
"Don't worry, your secret is save with me, this is just between you and me.and that irritating sailor," Sano answered. He gave her a reassuring smile.
"Thank you Sano, thank you for everything," Megumi said gratefully, "how can I repay you?"
"Well, you can start by finishing the bandaging of my right hand," Sano replied. They smiled at each other and Megumi helped to treat Sano's wound as best as she could. They had a lovely time joking at what Gareth had said, and Sano even stayed for breakfast.
On the other hand, our lovesick Gareth was very upset. What both Megumi and Sanosuke did not realize was that Gareth had a friend who was extremely talkative and loved spreading the latest news and rumors. By that afternoon, almost everyone had heard that Sanosuke Sagara was Megumi Takani, the beautiful female doctor's BOYFRIEND!
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Author's Notes: Hehehe.I just thought of the Gareth part when I was bathing.this idea suddenly came to my head.now I'm not sure how to continue (sweatdrop)