Till Death Do We Part

I WOULD LIKE TO GIVE A BIG GIGANTIC THANKS TO KITSUNE SAN WHO HAS SOOO KINDLY EDITED THIS FIC FOR ME~!!! ARIGATO!!! I would also like to thank Rurouni san and Pan san for rooting me on!  ::blows out kisses::
Please send comments to: iNightskyi@aol.com   THANK YOU!!!

(  ) <-- character's thoughts

< > <-- flashbacks
 

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

 "So, there's nothing for me to do?" a figure in the shadows asked in a soft voice.  There was a slight movement, and the figure stood, the pair of swords at his side clinking against each other at the slight movement.  The only other person in the small room, Iidzuka, nodded as he sipped at his tea.
 
 "Just go back to your home and enjoy your rest.  It looks like we just have to be patient."  Iidzuka lifted one side of his mouth slightly.   "Life hasn't been too boring, has it?"
 
 "No... I enjoy this peace actually,"  the silhouette in the dark corner told Iidzuka in a low voice.
 
 "Yeah, I can see it.  You seem less tense," Iidzuka commented as he took another sip.  He looked out the window; the sun had begun to set.  "I would have thought everything would seem bland and boring being a medicine man."
 
 "I never liked killing, Iidzuka-san," the figure in the dark answered as he looked out towards the sky.
 
 "I know, I know.  So, how's your wife?"
 
 "It's only supposed to be a cover, Iidzuka." But the tone of voice wasn't too convincing.
 
 "Is it?  Tell me, is it only a cover for you?"  His question remained unanswered as his guest remained quiet.  Or rather, the silence was the answer for his question.  Iidzuka shrugged off the silence.  "There's a fair of some sort tonight you know.  Why not take her?" Iidzuka tried to change the subject as the other moved to leave.
 
 "Perhaps," the figure answered as he slid open the door.
 
 "Have fun with Tomoe tonight, Battousai."
 
 The door slid shut.

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

 The red headed swordsman began his trek back to his cozy house in the countryside with the sun setting overhead.  His eyes, normally edged with golden, were now a clearer violet.  The normal tension on his face had relaxed due to the serenity of the past four months.  A gentle breeze swept through, sending his red hair swirling behind in red silky tendrils as he continued walking up the road.
 
 (Even Iidzuka has noticed the change in me.  I wouldn't be surprised...)
 
 Soon a little house came within his view and children were seen running around on the grassy turf playing.  One of the older kids saw the approaching red head and allowed a bright grin to touch his face.
 
 "HEY!  Look, everyone!!!  It's Oniichan!!!"  A spunky kid ran up to Battousai as the others follow suit.  One of the smaller girls beamed at him as she tugged at his hakama, her gigantic brown eyes full of love for this young man whom she valued as a playmate and friend.  Battousai smiled sweetly at the small girl and swung her up into his arms.
 
 "Where did you go?" one of the other kids asked.
 
 "I had to go speak with a friend.  Did you play with the young miss?"  Battousai spoke in a gentle voice as the kids swarmed about him.
 
 "Awww, she won't play! All she does is sit there like a statue."
 
 "Really," Battousai murmured as he set down the small girl.  The sun had set in the sky and a reddish hue colored the heavens.  Battousai, or rather as he calls himself here and now, Kenshin, waved goodbye to the kids as they ran home with lots of yells and squeals of coming tomorrow to play with their oniichan.  Battousai watched them as they ran off with a contented smile on his lips before he turned and headed into his house.
 
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

 A beautiful girl with long silky black hair peered out the window, watching the red headed hitokiri.  Her dark eyes were latched onto his smiling face as he was speaking with the children.  She heard the happy chatter and squealing of the children as they welcomed him back.  A small smile almost wavered at the edge of her lips before she closed her eyes, sad and icy.  She was sent here to find out this young man, Himura Battousai's weakness yet now... now...
 Tomoe, now Himura Tomoe shook her head as she almost regretfully pulled her eyes away from her husband.  As she departed from the window she heard his gentle voice say goodbye to the children.  She began to set down the dishes and poured tea, for she knew that her husband would soon be coming in, probably coming from a meeting with one of his comrades.
 
 "Tomoe?  Tomoe?" Battousai called as he shut the door gently.
 
 "In the kitchen, anata..." Tomoe replied in a gentle voice as she poured the hot tea.
 
 "Ah, you've already prepared dinner.  Thank you," Battousai said with a warm smile as he kneeled down for dinner.  Tomoe almost smiled back at him as she handed him the bowl of rice.
 
 "You do not have to thank me, dear," Tomoe answered in her usual casual tone as she scooped rice for herself.
 
 "What did you do today, Tomoe?" Battousai inquired as he picked up his chopsticks, ready to eat the simple but very tasty meal his wife had prepared.
 
 "Not much.  I did some reading and writing, and some mending.  Your blue kimono was dreadfully ripped in one sleeve."  Tomoe frowned very slightly.  "You should be more careful."

 
 Battousai's eyes widened for a moment, and then his face melted into another one of his soft smiles.  Tomoe refused to look into Battousai's purple eyes as she peered down at her dish.  She refused to lift her mask.
 
 (I really wish she would smile, even if it would only be something brief and fleeting...) Battousai thought before he frowned, as he mulling over several thoughts in his head.  Tomoe lifted her eyebrows in wonder.

 (Should-should I ask?  But perhaps this is only a cover for her... maybe she would go... or would she not?) Battousai thought while he looked up once to catch the icy eyes before looking back down to his bowl.  Tomoe blinked again in surprise and set down her food.

 "Is there something you wish to ask me dear?" Tomoe asked in her soft clear voice.

 (I should ask her... there wouldn't be any harm to it...)

 "Anata is ther-," Tomoe began before her husband interrupted.
 
 "Do you wish to come out to the town with me tonight?" Battousai blurted out before he could change his mind.  Tomoe looked up in, her face registering something close to surprise. She watched as the young man of only sixteen before her blush, a faint red color spreading across his cheeks.

 (He is a very shy person...) Tomoe thought.
 
 "There's a fair tonight, and my friend told me it would be very nice and um, well, you don't have to go if you rather stay here and, umm-" he continued to ramble before Tomoe halted him by sticking a piece of fish into his mouth.  At her movement the aroma of white plums drifted under Battousai's nose.

 (I love her scent...) Battousai thought as he gazed into Tomoe's beautiful face with affection written in his violet eyes.
 
 "Anata?" Tomoe asked, bringing him back from his thoughts.  He quickly chewed and swallowed the food, then nodded, gesturing for her to go on.  "I would like to go with you, dear." Tomoe answered with an expression that was close to being happy.
 
 "You-you're going?" Battousai asked in a mild tone and Tomoe nodded. He wanted to pull her right then and there into a tight embrace or even better, kiss her--but he did not.  Instead he chose to give her a soft smile, which encompassed many of the feelings he held for her.

 "This is wonderful," Battousai murmured as he resumed eating.  Tomoe could not figure out if he was commenting on the food or the fact that she was going with him.
 
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

 "Stop glaring that way, dear," Tomoe said in a calm, even voice as she walked beside him, a gentle hand on his arm.  Battousai muttered something before he frowned even deeper.

 (Maybe bringing Tomoe to the fair wasn't THAT great of an idea) He thought as he tried to smooth his face into a more, ah, how should we say, amiable expression.  Another elbow into his side proved his action had not reduced the death glare in his eyes.

 "Relax, dear.  You're so tense, I can feel it," Tomoe commented in a soft voice as she continued to move through the crowds in her normal pace, completely unfazed by the golden tinge of Battousai's eyes.  The young couple attracted quite a bit of attention of course.  Himura Kenshin, as he was known by as the townspeople, was famous for his medicine and attracted attention simply by himself.  With his red hair, violet eyes and delicate features, he was quite handsome.  But with his lovely wife, Tomoe, by his side, the lovely couple attracted not only second glances but most likely third and fourth.  Himura Battousai was feeling strangely possessive that night and did not enjoy the many stares that Tomoe attracted from men.  Of course he should have known since his wife was so beautiful but still... He did not care for their hungry looks.  The grim set of his lips showed his relief that he had bought his set of swords, though he doubted he would need to use them.
 
 (Or better yet, Tomoe will not allow me to touch them...)
 
 "I'll try, dear," Battousai grumbled as he forced his body to relax. His hand had been wavering near his katana before, but now he allowed it to drop to his side.  He soon eased off in his tension, the warmth of his wife by his side and the soft fragrance of white plums setting a sort of peaceful shield around him as he weaved his way through the crowds with Tomoe by his side.
 
 "Ah, Kenshin-san!" a stocky man in his forties called out.  Battousai looked up and smiled in greeting as the man walked quickly to catch up to them.  "Kenshin-san, my son accidentally cut his arm when sharpening his sword.  He's so clumsy, I tell you.  But anyway, it's a pretty bad cut.  We got the bleeding under control and everything but I heard that you were famous for your medicine for sword wounds.  Can you make some for me?"   Battousai smiled and nodded.
 
 "Of course!  I'll need a bit of time, but it should be ready by tomorrow afternoon.  Why don't you stop by then?"
 
 "Oh, thanks, Kenshin-san.  I'll see you tomorrow then?" he asked.
 
 "Yes," Battousai answered as he led Tomoe to one of the stands nearby.
 
 "You have a lovely wife, Kenshin-san!" the man called as he disappeared into the crowd.  This attracted more stares, forcing Tomoe to nudge her arm against his rib to calm him down.
 
 "Too lovely for her own good, sometimes," Battousai muttered under his breath as he was led to a stand selling jewelry and hair accessories.  Tomoe heard his soft comment and inwardly she felt pleased, though she didn't know why.
 
 (Why--why do I feel this way around him now?  Have I...?)  Tomoe's train of thought traveled off as she noticed the wonderful hair accessories they were selling by the stand.  One particular one, a long narrow strip of white silk, embroidered heavily with multi colored blossoms in pale pinks, purples, reds and blues caught her attention.  It was a wonderful item, but she decided not to buy such a thing.  (It would be ridiculous to spend so much money for one strip of material) Tomoe mused as she tugged her husband's sleeve to move on.  Battousai blinked in surprise, caught off guard before his feet responded, moving on to other stands.  Tomoe sighed.
 
 "Pay attention, dear," she said softly under her breath.  He gave her an expression of apology as he led her to other places.  Both abruptly stopped in front of a game stand of some sort.  Young kids were trying to catch goldfish with some small spoon-like instrument into a small bowl of water.  Tomoe watched the kids splash water around, trying to get the gold fish into the bowl to win the shiny living prizes.  One particular little girl, no matter how diligently she tried, could not catch a certain small goldfishie.  The small girl was on the verge of crying when Tomoe knelt down and laid a calm hand on her shoulder.
 
 "Huh?" the small girl said as she looked to her right in surprise.
 
 "Don't cry, little girl,"  Tomoe said as she handed some money to the person in charge for the instruments needed.  With deft hands she quickly caught the small fish.  The little girl clapped her hands.
 
 "Yay! Oneesan is great!" she cried as she clapped her hands.  Tomoe gave the fish to the little girl whose eyes widened in happiness.  She threw her arms around the raven haired girl and hugged her, thanking her profusely.

 "Thank you, thank you, oneesan!" she cried before running off to show her parents her prize.  Tomoe watched the small girl with a faintly amused smile in her eyes.  Then she blinked as she realized her husband was nowhere to be seen.
 
 "Anata?" Tomoe queried as she looked around.  She wandered around the stand, but still she could not see him.  She knew it wouldn't be that difficult to spot him with that bright red hair.  A gentle hand on her shoulder made her gasp.  Turning around she found herself staring into a pair of wonderful violet eyes, again shining with care for her.  Tomoe then realized how close her face was to his.  A faint blush crept across her cheeks before she turned around to hide it.  "Where have you been?" she asked in a normal tone of voice as she stared off to some distant spot.  Battousai smiled gently in apology as he placed his hands on her shoulders.
 
 "Gomen, Tomoe.  I should have told you, but I thought it would have taken only a few minutes.  I did, however, see you help that small girl.  You're such a kind person," he said as he moved closer.  Tomoe turned, her face set in an expressionless mask though her heartbeat had quickened.
 
 "What did you get, dear?" she asked in a faintly curious voice, peering at his hands to see.  Battousai smiled, amusement in his eyes.
 
 "Give me some credit, Tomoe.  I'm more observant than I may seem." He gestured for her to turn around and with only a moment's hesitation, she did. Gentle hands lifted her hair, his warm breath running across her skin.  She gasped as she felt her hair fall loose before his hands wove another ribbon around her silky black hair.  As he tied the ribbon deftly into a bow shape, he smiled, breathing in her gentle sweet scent.  "All done," he finally spoke out and took his hands almost ruefully off his tasteful wife.
 
 Tomoe glanced back, trying to find out what her husband had done.  She couldn't really see so she lifted her hand to feel.  Her fingers encountered a satin smooth material about her hair.  With nimble fingers she felt the embroidered flowers and realized it was the exact same ribbon that had caught her attention.  Her eyes widened as she looked into her husband's face and seeing the soft smile abut his lips she find herself almost smiling back.  Almost.   She couldn't, this man before her.  It was he--he killed her fiancée.  But deep within her, she knew. . . she knew that she was falling in love with this young man.
 
 "Let's go, Tomoe," he said gently as he took her hand and led her to other stands.  Tomoe nodded as she obediently followed.  Battousai smiled as he held her hand in his.  It felt warm.  With a brief glance back, he felt-- perhaps it was his imagination only--but it appeared his wife was almost smiling.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
 
 "Anata, isn't this cute?" Tomoe asked as she held up a trinket of some small animal carved from wood and ornamented nicely.
 
 "Ah, of course dear," Battousai answered in a forced cheerful voice as he rolled his eyes around.  How girls could look around without buying anything, especially when it came to such useless items, he really could NOT figure out.  He hunched over slightly in boredom.  Tomoe had been looking at the wooden and glass figurines for what felt like hours though in truth it was only ten minutes.  He had met several townspeople who had greeted him, knowing him for his medicine.  (No one would suspect me as anything else but a doctor and husband. I'm not some shadow assassin for once, just an ordinary man.)
 
 No one would have guessed that this short handsome man with his lovely wife was the infamous Hitokiri Battousai.  Who would?  Echoes of Iizuda's conversation rang through his mind.
 
 <"Is it? Tell me, is it only a cover?">
 
 (I wouldn't admit it back then, and I still refuse to admit it now. But I know this is no cover for me.  I-I really care for Tomoe.  These past few months, no matter how boring, have enlightened me so much.  Before when I fought, I never really understand true happiness and peace.  Now, now after living with her, I know and I will do whatever it takes to win this true peace for the people.)  Battousai frowned as he glanced over to Tomoe.  (But, is this only a cover for Tomoe?  It was truly sly to leave it up to me.)  Battousai peered over to his wife who had decided she had looked and poked enough.
 
 "Till death do we part," he whispered.
 
 "Hmm?  Did you say something?" Tomoe asked as she looked up.
 
 "Um, no, Tomoe.  Why don't we move on to another stand?"
 
 "Of course, but could you get me some tea first?  All this walking has really tired me out..."
 
 "I will, I should have realized sooner.  Why don't I go over there" --he pointed to a food stand down about six stands--"and get it.  You stay here and wait for me, okay?"  Tomoe thought about it for a moment.  She wanted to accompany him but decided she was too tired to push her way through the crowds.
 
 "Okay, I'll stay right here."
 
 "I'll be right back," he assured as he began to weave his way through the masses of people.  He didn't like leaving her alone, but she did look so tired.  He didn't want to force her to move anymore.  (Besides, she's with all those other girls who were looking at those glass things so that should be enough,) he thought but he still felt uneasy for some reason.  Why, he couldn't figure out.
 
Tomoe waited patiently by the stand for her husband when she felt a tap on her shoulder.  Blinking in surprise she looked around and met a pair of pretty green eyes.
 
"Konnichiwa! My name's Koizumi Hitoshi."  An attractive girl with shoulder length brown hair pulled back with a silk green ribbon which matched her eyes smiled at her.
 
"It's nice to meet you as well, Koizumi-san, my name's Himura Tomoe,"  Tomoe replied to the cheery young girl.
 
"Call me Hitoshi, Tomoe-san.  May I call you Tomoe?"
 
"Of course," Tomoe answered as she noticed the tall man beside her.  He had a plain sort of face but the look of adoration in his eyes every time he glanced down at Hitoshi made his face light up.  He was quite attractive then.  "And he is?" Tomoe asked as she glanced at the tall man with dark black hair.

 "Oh, how silly of me!  This man is my fiancée, Shibata Kenji."  She gestured to him and he bowed deeply.

 "It is nice to meet you, Himura-san."  He replied in a deep voice.  The clinking of a sword was heard as he straightened up.  Tomoe's eyebrow raised slightly.

 "Samurai?" she asked.  Kenji smiled and nodded.

 "Yeah.  I'm on leave for a while since I obtained permission to marry my dear Hitoshi."

 "He's one of the leading swordsmen, so they gave him some time off while his comrades have to continue their practicing," Hitoshi said in a proud voice.

Tomoe nodded as she looked off to see where her husband was.   He sure was taking his time.  It was then that she felt eyes on her.  It was a tall man with long black hair tied back in a topknot with striking blue eyes.  His face was very handsome with strong features.  Quite muscular, and a pair of swords hung by his side as well.  The man stood tall and straight, his eyes set on Tomoe.  Tomoe frowned and turned back to her company.  Hitoshi's mouth dropped open when she saw the disinterest in Tomoe's icy black eyes.

 "Tomoe-san! Do you know who that man is?" she squealed in a high pitched voice.

 "Hmm?" Tomoe said in a non-committal sort of voice.  Hitoshi's eyes widened.

 "He's Takeda Haruhiko, the best swordsman from this town.  NO one has beaten him when it came to fighting with kenjutsu.  He's from one of the famous samurai families.  It's said he was born with a sword in his hand!  And now he has his eyes on you--not that anyone can blame him, you're one of the prettiest girls I've ever seen! And you don't even seem to care!"  Hitoshi's pretty face turned quite red and Tomoe was afraid she was going to burst.

 "Well, there is probably a good reason, dear." Kenji told his fiancée with even voice.  "I saw her with a man before, I think the medicine man."

 "Oh yes, he is my husband," Tomoe answered.

 "You're married?" Hitoshi asked in disbelief.  Tomoe nodded.  She still felt that pair of blue eyes on her and she was beginning to feel the edges of annoyance.

 "Why does this Takeda Haruhiko keep staring at me?" Tomoe said in an almost irritated voice.

 Hitoshi could only sigh.  "Well, you must really love your husband, Tomoe-
san.  I don't blame you one bit, though.  I wouldn't trade Kenji here for anyone, not even a famous a swordsman like Takeda Haruhiko."  She blushed after her words but Kenji placed a hand on her shoulder, smiling happily.  Tomoe nodded at the couple and returned to looking for her husband.

 (Of course, it's only a cover.  But for some reason, it doesn't feel like it anymore...)

 "Tomoe-san!" Came a surprised gasp.
 Tomoe turned about and lifted an eyebrow at the man before her. Sometime while she had been speaking to Hitoshi, he had moved to her side. He smiled charmingly at the beautiful woman before him.  She was by the far the fairest he had ever seen.

 "Good evening, my dear lady.  My name's Takeda Haruhiko."  His voice was a deep baritone as he spoke.  Tomoe regarded him with only the briefest of glances.

 "Nice to meet you, Takeda-san.  My name's Himura Tomoe."  Tomoe then turned her attention back to searching for red hair among the masses of people.  Kenji smiled inwardly, pleased that this conceited man had received a blow to his massive ego.  Hitoshi could only giggle.  Haruhiko lifted an eyebrow in surprise. This is wasn't the usual reaction he received from girls.  He was about to speak again when Tomoe suddenly called out.

 "Anata!  Where have you been?"  Tomoe asked a young man with red hair in an exasperated tone.

 "Gomen, Tomoe.  There was such a huge crowd around that stand, I was afraid I would never get your tea." Battousai replied as he sighed.  He looked up and smiled.  "Who are these people, Tomoe?" he asked as he handed her the hot tea.

 "I'm Shibata Kenji, and this is Koizumi Hitoshi, my fiancee."

 "It is nice to meet you both.  My name is Himura Kenshin, I'm Tomoe's husband.  Shibata?  One of the samurai, if I may presume."

 "Why, yes, Himura-san."

 "And this is?" Battousai asked as he glanced over to Haruhiko.

 "I am Takeda Haruhiko."

 "Nice to meet you." Battousai inclined his head briefly.  Haruhiko only sniffed and walked away.  Battousai narrowed his eyes briefly.  (Takeda Haruhiko, the best swordsman in this town, I have heard.  I don't like his attitude though.  Nor the interest he seems to take in my wife.)
 
Tomoe coughed as she saw the golden look in his eyes and nudged him.  He blinked and then smiled in apology.  Hitoshi smiled broadly and took Tomoe's hand, pulling her to other stands to look over other things, all the way saying that she could see why Tomoe held little interest in that Takeda person, since her own husband was quite handsome as well.  Battousai sighed, catching Kenji's eyes.
 
"Ah, we better follow them," Battousai said as he began to go after Tomoe.  Kenji nodded and they walked side by side to another stand.

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

 Takeda Haruhiko, the leading samauri in this town, narrowed his eyes at the retreating group of four.  He should have known such a stunning woman as Himura Tomoe would not be single.  But she had caught his eye and he would not back down so easily.

 "Who is that red-head with the swords?" Haruhiko asked one of the stand owners.  The old man looked up and peered in Haruhiko's direction.

 "Oh, that is Himura Kenshin.  Great doctor, he is.  Lovely wife, as well."
 
"I see," Haruhiko said as he mulled over the several thoughts in his mind.  He wanted to get Tomoe, and he would, somehow.
 
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

 "Isn't this lovely?" Hitoshi squealed as she swung the transparent piece of fabric about her shoulders.  It was a pale blue color.  The two men watched, sighing as they shuffled their feet.

 "Himura-san," Kenji began as he decided to warn the short red head about Haruhiko, "there's something I need to say to you."

 "Yes?" Battousai inquired as he watched his wife for a moment more.

 "Remember that man from before, Takeda Haruhiko?"

 Battousai nodded as the guy's image flashed through his mind.

 "Well, you should watch out for him, he has an eye for your wife.  He's a truly unscrupulous man.  Oh, he won't outright do anything but he will scheme to get your wife somehow."

 "I thank you for your warning, Shibata-san."
 
 "No need to, Himura-san."  Both men laughed.  Hitoshi looked over to the two men and smiled.
 
 "You know, our men are getting along well."
 
 "They are, aren't they?" Tomoe agreed as she folded the soft fabric carefully.  Hitoshi watched the seemingly cold girl as she looked through the fabrics.
 
 (She's strange.  Tomoe-san doesn't appear to care for much.  Perhaps it's not my business to judge people, but she doesn't seem to have much feeling for anything.  Now that I think about it, she hasn't smiled once.  The closest she came to it was when Himura-san returned with the tea.)
 
 "Hitoshi-san?" Tomoe called out, bringing Hitoshi back from her thoughts.
 
 "Ah, nothing, Tomoe-san.  Hey, why don't we go-" Hitoshi began before she got rudely pushed.  A tall, muscular man with scars on his arms sneered at the two women.
 
 "Give us your money," he spat out as the five men behind him chorused in agreement.  Hitoshi squealed in terror but Tomoe remained unfazed by this rude interruption.
 
 "If you want money so much, here," Tomoe said in an icy tone and threw her wallet at the tall man.  She then turned, gently taking Hitoshi's arm and began to walk away.  The man threw her wallet back at her, which Tomoe managed to catch as she felt them walking after her.
 
 "What is it that you want?  You asked for money, I gave you money."  Tomoe told them in a crisp voice lathered with irritation.  Hitoshi stared at Tomoe with widened eyes, not believing the audacity of this girl beside her.  Battousai immediately heard the commotion and within a millisecond had flickered to Tomoe's side.
 
 "Excuse me, sirs, but please stop bothering these ladies.  They have done nothing to offend you," he said as he stood in front of Tomoe.  His eyes had narrowed slightly in annoyance, angry that anyone dare bother his wife.
 
 "This is none of your business, girly-boy.  Get out of our face," one of the men sneered as he reached for his sword.  Battousai narrowed his eyes a bit more, the normally purple irises glowing insanity and gold as he reached for his sword.  A gentle touch on his arm stopped him and his eyes reverted back the gentle eyes of Himura Kenshin.
 
 "No, anata.  Please, no fighting," Tomoe said in a strangely gentle voice.  Battousai frowned but allowed his hand to drop as he looked into Tomoe's endless eyes.  Another loud voice broke the mood, however.
 
 "Stop bothering these people immediately, or you will have to answer to Takeda Haruhiko."
 
 "Kuso, it's that guy.  Let's go before he hurts us!" one man cried and the rest followed, running away, hissing that they'll be back.  Battousai narrowed his eyes.
 
 (Those men, they did not seem the least bit angry really though...)
 
 "Are you alright Tomoe san?" Haruhiko asked.   Hitoshi frowned, both in anger and suspicion but a small embrace from her fiancee calmed her.
 
 "I'm fine." Tomoe answered as she went back to Battousai's side.  "Thank you, dear," she told him.  Battousai smiled softly at her and nodded.
 
 "You're welcome," he replied as he took her arm, leading her away.  The other couple followed, Hitoshi with a satisfied grin on her dainty red lips while Kenji held an amused expression in his eyes.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
 
 "What is with that girl?" Haruhiko grated between clenched teeth as he watched the backs of Tomoe and Battousai.
 
 "Give up, boss.  The girl is married already.  She's quite pretty, though," the man told him, one of the men from before who had tried to cause trouble with the foursome.
 
 "I don't give up that easily..."

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

 "Wow, did you see Takeda's face?  Man!" Hitoshi exclaimed as she clung onto Kenji's arm.

 "Yes, dear.  I saw." Kenji replied with a satisfied grin on his plain but honest face.

 "The strange thing I really don't get is, why did Tomoe-san thank Himura-san?  I mean, I understand that he tried to stand up for her, and it is quite brave for him since he seems to be such a small guy and all, but anyhow-"

 "I think it's something just between the two of them, dear," Kenji interrupted as he watched the married couple in front.  (They truly belong together.)  He looked down to Hitoshi.  (So do we.)

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

 "Thank you again, anata," Tomoe murmured as they walked.

 "You don't have to thank me, dear.  I know you rather not cause a commotion during this festival, eh?" he replied as he looked about at the stands, the people, at everything, really.  A contented smile twitched the ends of his lips up into a smile.  He had been smiling a lot more since living with Tomoe.

 "And thank you for the gift." Tomoe whispered in a soft voice, barely audible to his ear.  Battousai looked to his wife who looked demurely to the floor, a faint reddish hue on her smooth cheeks.  Again the smile appeared on his lips, his eyes glittering with love for this woman who he had met quite by chance.  He had begun to sink into an abyss of darkness, chaos and insanity and this beautiful girl had reached down and pulled him back to a world of peace and happiness.

 "You're welcome, my wife," he whispered as he squeezed her hand, a gentle smile on his handsome face.  Tomoe nodded.  Her face no longer was an ice mask.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
 
 Himura Battousai looked up into the sky.  It was completely dark now.  The moon was high and stars speckled the night sky.  He tilted his head slightly to his left where Tomoe's head laid, nestled between his shoulder and neck, his senses filling with her warmth and smell.  Her eyes were closed as she slept peacefully in her husband's arms, feeling so safe and warm.   Battousai tightened his hold around her as he stared up to the heavens, thanking every deity he knew for meeting Tomoe.  A gentle breeze sent his long red hair into an intricate dance as he touched Tomoe's face with trembling fingers, almost as though he would mar her in some way, sweeping hair away from her closed eyes.  He looked at her sleeping face, relaxed by dreams and smiled again, that simple but soul warming smile.
 
 (Before, when I asked myself whether she thought of this marriage as only a cover... it doesn't matter to me whether she does or not right now.  As long as she stays by my side, as long as she is with me, I don't care.  I don't care because I- I love her.  I will keep her happiness and protect her as long as I live.)
 
 He looked down at her and brought his lips to her forehead about to kiss her when he heard a yell.  Battousai looked up, his eyes searching about for the cause of this interruption.
 
 "Himura-san?" Kenji called out from his seat on the soft grass about seven feet away.
 
 "What was that noise, Shibata-san?" he called back gently, trying to keep his voice from waking Tomoe from her peaceful sleep.
 
 "I don't know, Himura-san," Kenji answered.  The figure against his shoulder, Hitoshi, stirred and asked in a sleepy voice what was going on.  Kenji answered in a hushed voice for her to go back to sleep, that nothing was wrong, trying to soothe her.  Battousai looked about, his eyes gleaming as he searched felt it.
 
 (An evil presence... Takeda Haruhiko!) Battousai thought as he sat up straighter.  Almost as though by magic, Haruhiko appeared with the same group of men from before with him.
 
 "It's time to be punished, little boy," Haruhiko sneered as he drew his gleaming sword out of its sheath.  He motioned for the men in back of him to do the same.
 
 "Yare yare, I just wanted to spend some time with Tomoe," Battousai said softly as he set Tomoe to the grass gently, laying his blue haori over her.  He brushed some more hair from her face, a gentle smile on his face before it disappeared.  "What is it that you want, Haruhiko?" Battousai asked in a low voice.  His eyes narrowed, shining golden and insanity.  An evil grin lifted the corners of his lips, the restraints lifted since Tomoe slept soundlessly on the grass.  The malicious countenance of Himura Battousai sent some of the men cringing back in fear.
 
 (Those eyes... they can not be!) Haruhiko thought.  "A-attack!  Kill him!" Haruhiko yelled and the group of men roared ahead.
 
 "Himura-san!" Kenji screamed as he stood up ready to help.
 
 "Yara yare.. so much noise," Battousai replied as he drew his sword.  It was then that Tomoe's voice echoed through his mind.
 
 <Thank you... anata...>
 
 With a grim determination he flipped his sword and ran straight into the group of men.  Within a few minutes, they all lay on the grass moaning in pain or unconsciousness.
 
 "That was quick," Battousai said as he sheathed his sword.
 
 "Masaka," Haruhiko whispered as he glanced over to the standing figure.  "No one is better than I, though!"  He gripped his sword tighter and ran toward Battousai with a vengeance.
 
 "Baka," Battousai said in a low tone before he suddenly flickered from view.
 
 (He-he's fast,) Kenji thought as he watched the fight, his arms tensing and tightening about Hitoshi.
 
 "Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu, Ryu Tsui Sen!" With a crash he landed the flat of his blade onto Haruhiko's shoulder and the tall man fell to the ground in pain.
 
 (Hmmm... he's not unconscious and still moving, as well.  Pretty good, then,) Battousai thought as he sheathed his sword a second time.  Kenji watched him with a perplexed expression on his face.
 
 (Those techiniques... Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu? Is he... is he...?) Kenji thought as his body shivered slightly.
 
 (I just wanted to spend some time with Tomoe and this happens.  Sometimes she's too beautiful for her own good.) Battousai sighed as he moved beside Tomoe, kneeling down to pick her up.  Another familiar voice made him raise his head.  (Is that Shinsaku?  Yes, that is Shinsaku.)  He thought as he pulled his haori over his gi.
 
 "What is all this noise?" Shinsaku called aloud as he arrived backed by four swordsmen.  Judging by their clothing they were hitokiris as well.  Battousai smiled to himself.
 
 "Shinsaku-sama! Shinsaku-sama!" Haruhiko called out as he stumbled to the official's side.
 
 "What happened to you, Takeda?" Shinsaku asked the injured samurai.
 
 "That man!  I implore you to imprison him!  He's been attacking people!" Takeda yelled as he clutched his broken shoulder.  Shinsaku looked over and to his surprise saw their shadow assassin, Himura Battousai, picking up Tomoe into his arms.
 
 "You say he's been attacking people?  Did you fight him?"
 
 "Yes!!!  Why, yes, I fought him and-"
 
 "Enough!" Shinsaku cut off Haruhiko's rambling as he watched Battousai say goodbye to Kenji with Tomoe in his arms.
 
 (Himura seems much more relaxed now.  Perhaps these few months have done more good then I had first presumed.  Getting married agrees with him. As for Haruhiko, wonder what he did to Himura...) Shinsaku thought.  Battousai was nearing them now.
 
 "Shinsaku-san, I'm going back now.  Was there something you needed me to do?" Battousai asked in a soft voice.  Tomoe sighed in her slumber as she snuggled closer to him.  A contented smile lingered on his lips as he peered down to his attractive wife.
 
 "No, Himura.  Enjoy your vacation." He answered in an equally quiet voice.
 
 "I have, and I will."  With another smile he inclined his head slightly and left, his slippers making a small grating sound as he went up the road toward his farmhouse.
 
 "So, Himura's enjoying his vacation, eh?" One of Shinsaku's bodyguards smirked with a humor glittering in his dark eyes.
 
 "Hmph, so it seems," another said.  Haruhiko regarded Shinsaku with a amazed expression.
 
 "You know Himura Kenshin, the medicine man?" Haruhiko asked in an incredulous voice.  Kenji approached, holding a sleepy Hitoshi in his arms who was rubbing droopy eyes to wake up.
 
 "You still don't get it, Takeda-san?"
 
 "Who is he?  Who really is that man?"  Haruhiko asked as he clutched his shoulder in pain.
 
 "Haruhiko, I would prefer it if you kept quiet about this," Shinsaku ordered in a low voice.
 
 "If you do not..." one of the swordsmen behind Shinsaku said in a dangerous voice.  The clinking of four swords were heard as Shinsaku held up a hand for them to stop.  Haruhiko's eyes were beginning to bulge from his eye sockets.
 
 "I trust you to keep quiet."
 
 "I'm sure he will." Kenji smirked as he hugged Hitoshi.  His eyes watched Himura's retreating back.  (You can never judge a person from appearance nor by gossip.  I know I never will again, not after meeting Himura-san.)
 
 "Kenji?  Is something wrong?" Hitoshi asked as they walked back to their house.
 
 "No, Hitoshi, nothing's wrong.  I was just thinking about Himura and his wife."
 
 "They were so nice.  I hope we see them again."
 
 "I hope so too, Hitoshi," Kenji said as he pulled Hitoshi closer to him.  (Perhaps we'll meet again Himura Battousai.)
 
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

 Himura Battousai walked peacefully up the road to his home carrying Tomoe in his arms.  Gentle breezes swept around them, tossing their hair about.  The road was empty and dark, most people either asleep or at the festival.  The sky was an inky black, dotted by sparkling white stars.  The silver moon shone high in the sky, lighting the road home for the young couple.
 
 (Today was quite fun... even though there was a interruption...)  He thought as he shifted Tomoe closer to him, her sweet scent drifting to his nose.  Tomoe stirred then and opened her eyes partway.  She realized then that someone was carrying her--her husband, she figured from the warmth and security wrapping around her.
 
 "Anata," she breathed softly.  A gentle voice hushed and soothed her, lulling her back to sleep.  She snuggled back against Battousai, her eyes drifting closed again as she went back to a contented and relaxed sleep.
 (I feel--I feel so safe in his arms.  My husband... my second beloved...) The last thoughts drifted from her mind and she fell back asleep, lulled asleep by the warmth and security in his arms and his breathing and heartbeat.
 (I love you...)
 
 They soon arrived at their small house and he managed to open the door with his foot, breathing a sigh of relief when his wife remained asleep.  His eyes soon adjusted to the darkness and he carried her in, sliding the door shut behind him with a kick.  As he traveled through the dark house his mind traveled back to the first week with her.  She had been so icy and cold then but as the weeks passed...  Battousai smiled gently.  Yes, he had fallen deeply in love with her.  He could admit it now, yes, he loved Tomoe with all his heart.
 
 (If she ever left me... NO I will not think about that... she's with me right now...) Battousai thought as he forced back that terrible contemplation.  He would protect her and they would stay together... perhaps after this war... A small smile appeared on his lips as Tomoe sighed at his touch.  (Yes, we'll stay together... forever... till death do we part...)  A small candle burned in their bedroom, the limited light illuminating the room enough for him to locate the bed.  He laid her down gently, pulling off her slippers and jacket.  With another glance he bent down to her face and flicked hair from her face.  Her scent, her hair, her eyes... he loved everything about her.  The competent air that always surrounded her...

 (Till death do we part,) Battousai thought as he leaned closer to her face.  A cool breeze blew through the room blowing out the candle as he leaned down toward Tomoe.
 
 Till death do we part... I love you Tomoe...

  Till death do we part... I love you....

    Till death do we part...
 
      Till Death Do We Part...
 
 

          The End (Owari)