Freedom
Chapter 20
Losing a Life
By, Dark Kishi

Kenshin quickly looked at Yahiko. Stay here! he ordered before he left his seat and ran after Kaoru. Stealthily he followed her path down a dark hall. Kenshin noted that the light socket had been pulled out and sparks rained down. glass scattered the ground and Kenshin took great care in stepping around it. He wanted to run, but knew that the slightest sound could mean that the attacker would know of his presence.

At least that was his thinking until he saw a horrible sight. Slowly he crouched near the women's bathroom and studied the red liquid that dripped down the wall. Anger began to fuel within his body. As he began to rise he took a better look at the end of the hall. Blood streaked the hall.

Without another thought, Kenshin ran down the hall and leaped out the back door.

Kaoru lied in the snow the pain to much for her to bare. She cradled her head in her hands. Desperatly she tried not to cry, but no matter how much she tried she could stop the few tears that released themselves. She could feel the left side of her body begin to go numb from the snow. She didn't care though. Things were getting dark and she could barely hear the voices of her captures.

As she was walking to the bathroom she was struck with a knife on her arm before someone else hit her on the head with something else. Susumu had then grabbed her and dragged her out of the restaurant. As they crossed the snow covered garden in the back he released his grip and allowed her to drop to the ground where she now lay now.

Kaoru tried her hardest to focus on something, anything, hoping that the descending darkness would stop soon. Slowly she noticed that the snow was taking on a dull red color. Pulling her hand away from her head she stared in shock at the offending color that stained her hand. No wonder everything was going black. She was slowly falling out of conciseness.

She tried to keep her self awake and in doing so she began to focus on her captures conversation.

Hurry up you good for nothings! Susumu screamed at his underlings. We need to leave before anyone notices she's gone!

To late. A harsh and powering voice said. Kaoru wiggled as best she could in her pain to she the holder of the voice. It was none other than Kenshin, but then again the person standing in front of the door wasn't Kenshin. It was the Battousai. A blood loving power was slowly taking control of his aura intimidating all that stand near.

Kenshin's eyes focused on Kaoru and the blood that stained the snow around her. He blinked quickly and knew from Kaoru's look of shock that his eyes had changed completely into the Battousai. He wanted to fight the urges that screamed within him. He wanted to keep his vow of not killing, but knew that it was becoming a losing battle.

Kenshin allowed his hands to rest on his sword as he moved forward. Eyes flicked from Kaoru to Susumu and finally back on Kaoru. You hurt her. He said in a stony voice.

Susumu tried desperately to keep a fearful look on his face, but you could still see it in his eyes. Yes and now we are taking her with us. Back to where she belongs.

At this Kenshin began to grit his teeth. He walked further until he was right in Susumu's face. Kaoru belongs to no one. He spit out.

Before Kaoru new what to expect, Kenshin was attacked by four of Susumu's hence men. When silence once again rested around the garden. Kaoru desperately looked for Kenshin, but she couldn't find him. It was when that thought registered that she was gently lifted into a pair of arms. Frantically she fought until her capture spoke.

Be still. You are safe. Kenshin spoke in the still harsh voice.

Kaoru relaxed and took this time to look for the four attackers. They laid scattered on the ground, but none were dead. Kaoru thanked the heavens quietly that he had been carrying his sakabatou.

Put her down! She is mine! Susumu screamed again. I risked my life taking her. I raised her and she has yet to fully pay off her debts.

Stop it! Kaoru screeched. I want to be free! Kaoru could feel refreshed tears threatening to fall, but at the same time she could also feel Kenshin's strong hands pulling her tighter.

Your family disgraced us Kamiya, and you're lucky to even be alive. Susumu said in a steady voice.

That's enough. Kenshin whispered these words, but they were loud enough to quiet Susumu. Silently he then set Kaoru down on the ground and before anyone could blink Kenshin had Susumu by the neck. He held Susumu in the air and spoke to him quietly. Even though this is a reversed blade sword I could still do so much damage to you that even moving your eyes would be a feat in itself.

She will always be a good for nothing bitch and deep down you know it. Once a filthy Kamiya, always a filthy Kamiya. Susumu spat.
With that Kenshin threw him into a near by wall and in that single movement he cut down a large tree with his sword to fall on Susumu trapping him. Kenshin then walked towards him again before he was jarred by Kaoru's plea.

Please Kenshin, let him go. When he turned around she allowed him to see her smile. I don't want to lose you again.

It was these words that allowed his eyes to soften once again. Kenshin had pushed Battousai back. You're right Miss Kaoru. He said with a smile.

Susumu slowly opened his eyes and watched Kenshin walk back towards Kaoru. Sirens began to ring and they were getting closer. Before Kenshin reached Kaoru Susumu made a desperate attempt to ruin Kaoru's life. He raised his gun and with shot he hit Kenshin in the back.

Kenshin's eyes flashed wide open as his arms flared behind him and his knees buckled under him. Slowly his body descended face down into the snow as pain spread throughout him and darkness over took.

Kaoru jumped in shock but kept her eyes locked onto Kenshin's. Panic streaked through Kaoru's body as she watched the snow turn red. This time it wasn't her blood, but it was the blood of the one she loved. Quickly Kaoru scrambled towards him and collapsed on top of him. Tears flew out of her eyes as she heard the second shot ring out before her world too went black.

Kaoru shivered with cold as she allowed a tear to run down her face. It had only been a couple days since the accident, but many things had changed. Slowly Kaoru withdrew herself from the cold bath water and wrapped herself in the yukata that hung on the peg. Her hair had been pulled into a high bun but her bangs were damp from splashing water on her face. Tying the yukata tightly around her slender form she reached for a towel and hugged it tightly. She buried her head before letting more tears fall.

This is no good. She scolded herself and then put the towel down. Kaoru starred at her face in the mirror and reached out a hand to touch it. The second shot wasn't for me. She whispered as she remembered the events of what had happened in the snow covered garden.

After Kenshin had been shot and fell to the ground she rushed over to him. She had then heard the second shot and before she passed out she had believed it was a shot for her and that she was dying. When she woke up earlier she was surprised to find out from Megumi that the second shot wasn't hers but it was another desperate attempt by Susumu. Knowing that he wasn't going to escape this time and that the police were close he shot himself in the head.

Kaoru allowed a small smile to touch her lips as the next thought floated over her. I'm free. She'd wanted it for so long.

But did Kenshin have to be killed for her dream to be realized?

Shaking her head Kaoru walked into the bed room. It was dark and lonely in this room. Kenshin wasn't there waiting on her. She began to go into hysteria and even though she knew he had died she still went looking for him.

No one answered her and the liing room was dark as well. Kaoru noted that he wasn't in the kitchen either. Quietly she turned back around and peeked into Yahiko's room. He was fast asleep and sprawled over the bed.

It can't be. Kaoru whispered as she left his room and walked back into the living room to sit down in the big chair. Kaoru curled herself into a little ball and let all the tears fall. He's dead. She admitted through rib shaking sobs. Hysteria began to take over Kaoru and she lost control of her body. Slowly her hand reached out for the remote that laid on the table and before she knew it she was on her feet again. She screamed out before she threw the remote at the mantel knocking the different nicknacks down.

Kaoru stumbled forward and grasped the glass and frames that littered the ground.

Her hands and legs were pierced by the glass, but that was not the pain that she felt. she picked up the framed picture. It was the picture of her and her parents. Blood soaked into the wood of the frame staining it a odd cherry color. She had lost so many people. First her mother and then her father. Years later after thinking that there was no point in ever trying again she found Kenshin and he took her in. Now because of the Kamiya curse he had been lost too. Kenshin had saved her only to die himself.

Please come back. She screamed out in a shrill voice. No. No please come back to me. Kaoru whispered and folded over, tucking the picture under her chest and laying her fore head on more glass.

Kaoru never heard the rushing footsteps.

Yahiko asked. What's wrong with her? He asked the person standing next him.

The man walked forward and kneeled down next to her laying a hand on her back. Miss Kaoru what troubles you?

She whispered as she snapped her head up and stared at him. Your not dead?

Miss Kaoru? Kenshin looked at her, his eyes questioning her. Gently he touched her forehead. Blood ran down her face down her nose and over one cheek. Tears also ran down her cheeks mixing with the blood. He looked down at the floor and then took Kaoru's hands within his own. You're sitting in glass.

Where have you been? Kaoru asked as she was pulled into Kenshin's arms.

In the other room. He said. Kenshin then got to his feet and carried Kaoru into her room and then to the bathroom. Finally he set her down on the counter.

Look at your self Ugly. Your covered in blood. Yahiko blurted out. Why in the world would you kneel in glass?

Kaoru didn't say a thing. She only stared at Kenshin while rubbing the back of her hand on his cheek, a smile spreading across her lips.

Kenshin didn't understand what was happening, but he didn't think it was smart for Yahiko to be there at the moment. Yahiko go back to sleep. You have school tomorrow.

Yahiko started to argue, but realized the confused look on Kenshin's face. I mean okay. Goodnight.

Kenshin watched as Yahiko left before turning his gaze back to Kaoru. Miss Kaoru what were you doing?

Kaoru's head then dropped as the scenes from earlier filled her head. A single tear dropped form her eye to land between Kenshin's feet. Why aren't you dead?

Kenshin was stunned at her question, but before he could even begin to respond Kaoru started talking again.

You were shot and killed. I ran over to you and collapsed on top of you while you died. blood was everywhere. When I woke up earlier today I already knew you were dead. Megumi didn't say anything about you so I was sure that I was right. Kaoru couldn't stop now. Tears streamed out of her eyes and she couldn't stop speaking. Once I got out of the bath I really lost it. Even though I knew you were gone I still looked for you. The only place that I didn't check was your room.

It's okay Miss Kaoru. Kenshin said. He then reached up and cupped her head in his hands. Megumi didn't say anything to you because it didn't pass through her mind.

But you were shot! I saw the blood and everything! Kaoru screeched.

You're right, but the bullet didn't hit anything drastic. I was lucky, but okay. Kenshin then took his hands from her face and lifted up his shirt and turned around. He said indicating the bandaged spot. I just went unconscious and thanks to my recouping skills I woke up yesterday. Well, I woke up and then fell back asleep only to repeat the waking and sleeping process the rest of the time.

But you're not a ghost and you're fine? Kaoru asked tentatively.

Yes. Now let's clean up these wounds and put you to bed. Kenshin said with a large smile. He then began to move about the bathroom getting all the supplies when he felt a hand grab his arm. Miss Kaoru? He asked as he turned around to look at her.

New tears followed the old ones, but this time there was a warmth in her eyes instead of the fear. In a slight whisper she formed three heavenly words before leaning forwards to kiss him. I love you.

The kiss although not lacking in passion was not long fore neither were strong enough to carry on for much longer. Kenshin's body was already close to it's limit form carrying Kaoru. After quickly cleaning the wounds of as much glass as he could, Kenshin bandaged them and then pulled Kaoru into his arms and carried her to the bed. he slowly lowered her to the bed and pulled the cover over her body.

Good night Miss Kaoru Kenshin whispered as he walked towards the door. Miss Megumi will by early in the morning to check on us and she will get the rest of the glass out then. Then once she gets ready to leave She will take Yahiko to school and Sano will come spend the rest of the day with us.

Why Sano? Kaoru asked. I thought there was no more danger?

Well Miss Kaoru, I am always in danger. It comes with my past life. Kenshin said. But he will also be here in case we need something and Miss Megumi has ordered us to stay in bed so that means he will also be serving us food.

Both Kenshin and Kaoru laughed at the thought of Sano serving them food.

Well, night Miss Kaoru. He said as he once again turned towards the door.

Wait Kenshin. Kaoru waited till he looked at her. With a blushed face she asked, Aren't you going to sleep with me? I thought this was now your room too.

Miss Kaoru? Kenshin said in disbelief. His eyes were now wide with shock. Sano and Miss Megumi would see us and think there was more.

Well there is isn't there? I love you and I thought you felt the same. Kaoru countered.

I do miss Kaoru. I love you very much, but I thought that since you no longer had the gang threat against you that you'd think it was now time to move on. Kenshin said allowing his true feelings out.

I am moving on, but with you by my side. Kaoru said. All I know is that I love you and right now I am satisfied.

Me too. He said slowly allowing a smile to spread onto his face. He then walked towards the bed and got in beside her. Kaoru rolled over and laid her head under his chin while Kenshin wrapped his arms around her. Life was good now and Kenshin was happy. You're wonderful Miss Kaoru.

Kaoru sighed as she was already falling asleep to the rhythm of Kenshin's breathing.

With a laugh Kenshin turned of the lamp, took in a deep breath af jasmine, and closed his eyes. He sighed.

After many weeks of police reports, court hearings, and some tearful nights everything calmed down. Kenshin still went out at least once a week to capture some wanted criminal while Kaoru sat up waiting for him hoping that he'd come home soon. The big discussion for those weeks were also if Yahiko wanted to be adopted.

It's up to you, Yahiko. It won't hurt my feelings if you say no, but you should think about it. Kenshin said that week while sitting on the couch watching the pacing boy.

Kaoru had removed herself from the discussion. She felt that since she wasn't a part of Kenshin's family either, that it wouldn't be of any help to have her chime in. Of course Kenshin had objected that she might one day and that it could affect her, but Kaoru refused to here it and instead sat at the kitchen counter reading one of the books on tape that Kenshin had given her to help her learn to read.

I know, and I have thought about it, but I still have questions. Yahiko admitted.

Go ahead and ask. Kenshin urged him with a smile.

Well, would this mean that you are my father?

Technically yes, but... Kenshin answered. you could call me whatever you wanted.

Yahiko nodded and then went on. Would Kaoru be my mother technically?

That would depend on if I ask her to marry me and if she says yes.

Are you going to? Yahiko pried.

Kenshin took a quick glance at Kaoru before answering. Let's just say next to adopting you, it is the biggest priority to me.

Okay. Would I have to change my name?

Kenshin could see that this was the most important question to him. all he had left of his mother and father was his name. Yes. you'd change your last name to Himura.

At this a sad look came over Yahiko's face. He then pulled his self together and looked Kenshin straight in the eyes. I think i should go to my room and think some more now that I have this new information.

Go ahead, I'll tell you when dinner is ready. Kenshin said. When Yahiko closed his bedroom door Kenshin let out a breath of air and pulled himself off the couch. Kaoru still sat starring at the counter. Her head was propped on her arms and the headphones were still on. She really must like that book. He thought until he walked a little closer and realized the truth. Oh Miss Kaoru. He said this with a chuckle before pulling her headphones off.

Kaoru had fallen asleep.

Miss Kaoru please wake up. Kenshin whispered in her ear.

Slowly Kaoru stirred. After a couple of blinks she focused her eyes on Kenshin.

He responded. I didn't think the book would be that good.

She said with a smile. How'd it go with Yahiko?

Fine, but he's back in his room thinking some more.

She said. Are you all right

Of course. it would be insensitive to be any other way. I can understand.

Kaoru looked at him in shock. What do you mean?

Well after my parents died I was taken in by these woman. I don't know that much them though because soon after they were killed. That's when I met my master Hiko and decided that I'd avenge them by becoming strong.

So that's why. Kaoru said.

Yes. Master Hiko thought that Shinta, which was my name, wasn't fitting so he changed it to Kenshin. I was upset but at least I still had my last name.

Kaoru stared at him for some time. She said.

I guess I should have told you before. Kenshin whispered.

Kaoru giggled a little before saying, That would have been nice.

You're okay?

Of course. It takes time to know somebody inside and out. Kaoru said.

Later that same night, as they all sat around the table for dinner, Yahiko politely declined Kenshin's offer of adoption saying that he didn't want to let go of his family just yet. So they went on as normal, well...everyone, but Kenshin did that is.

Kenshin had a nervous air to him, but refused to explain what it was. But tonight it was all going to end. Tonight Kenshin was going to make the biggest choice in his life. Tonight Kenshin would sit with Kaoru on a bench, by the river and proclaim his love. He would tell her how much she meant to him and how she was the best thing to ever try and rob him. He would tell her how she had stolen his heart and in time had also gained his soul. Kenshin was nothing without her and he wanted to be with her for every hour in the day. He would tell her how he wanted to create a family with her and he didn't care who's name they took. Just like Yahiko he knew that her family's name would be a big factor in her decision and if it meant not having her as a wife then he would proudly change his own last name.

Miss Kaoru, would you like to go out for a walk? Kenshin said as he stepped from the Kitchen, placing a small velvet box in his pocket. It is a warm day.

Kaoru jumped up, rushed to the door, and slipped on her shoes.

She loved the river. It held something in its water that only Kaoru saw and Kenshin knew that this would be the perfect spot. With a deep breath Kenshin walked towards the door. We'll be back Yahiko!

Yahiko yelled from his room.

And with the opening of the door their new lives and new freedoms would forever change.

Fin

A.N. It's all over with. I know that some of you will be upset that I didn't include the proposal, but Kaoru says yes and there aren't that many different ways to write that. I just felt bored with it and I knew that if I included the proposal in the final product that it would take me a month or two because when I hate to write something then I just can't force myself to doing it.

I'm also debating the thought of doing a sequal. Of course it would deal with their knew life together and I was thinking that it would even have the river as its theme, but that's as far as I got. I just can''t think of anything more, not even a good plot. YOu could give me ideas, or you could even just tell me that you don't want a sequeal and would like tis to be the end. Sort of like a mystery.

Oh feel free to go to my xanga blog at
?user=KachinaOfKishi

Please review. as you can see I need your responses!

Response to the Reviewers

xx-punk-ass-skater-xx I'm very glad you liked it and I'm sorry about my lack of updates. I used to be so good to!

nicky ) I tried to update sooner, but with volunteering at the library things just weren't working.

inuyasha0024 THank you

Battousai-Katana I hate waiting too. So, so sorry.

PhoebeOtaku Once again, sorry for making you wait.

Kaoru Himura7 Well there areen't any lemons, but whatever. I hope this was good enough of a devlopment.

kenshin's-angel You're right. it's nive to see when an author has lots of reviews! I'm also glad you're not confused.

areil ) THanks!

Tenshi Koneko I guess you could classify this as a cliffy, but you know she says yes so don't fret!

gaby (hyatt Glad you liked it.

noner89 I guess this wasn't soon, but at least it's an update.