Author’s Notes: Ah...seven inches of snow....still they did not cancel classes....But am I at school? No. I value life over education. Wow, apparently I’m pretty popular...::laughs:: You know you’ve made it when people are excited by getting a review from you. Honestly, it’s so weird having authors I’m a fan of love my work. I never knew I had modesty until now. ::cackles:: Well I dropped my Speculative Fiction class to take Advanced Fiction Workshop so I can use school to work on fics. But probably to work on one-shots. Nice. I had the WEIRDEST dream last night and I’m going to do a short A/M fic about it. Although I’m not adding the part of my dream where Joey and Matthew Lawrence ::you know the actors/brother:: show up and I being me comment on how much they look alike. I do not know where that came from. ::laughs:: I admit I did have a crush on Mathew Lawrence when he was in ‘Superhuman Samurai Cyber Squad’. I’m reading an interesting book I was supposed to use for Speculative Fiction, ‘The Penguin Book of Vampire Stories’. I might inspired. Actually I might use the Dark Shadows dream I had for an A/M story. I love that show. Dark Shadows. It’s old but it’s so cool. Damn sci-fi Channel! They only show it once a run. ::cries:: Oh my God I’m utterly addicted to ‘Pretty Man’ by shin-no-shibo. I love that story so much and it’s only two chapters so far. But she had the most important attention grabber where I’m concerned, in a sense..Aoshi-sama in leather! But Noa knows how much I love this story. I’m like THIS close to using Rapponmatsu-esque death threats if you don’t post chapter 3 soon. I know you wanna work on other fics, but this one is like AWESOME! Okay, the Buck Tick ‘Miu’ situation. As I’ve stated I’ve been DESPERATELY trying to find at lest the romanized lyrics for it. I have found them and I’ve attempted using an on-line Japanese-English server to translate the song. But I’m not sure of the accuracy and I couldn’t translate every word so if anyone check and correct the translation for me, please please please let me know. This is for Aoshi/Misao fanfic purposes. I NEED the translation for the next AM fic I’m going to be doing. So...in review: I love Aoshi-sama in leather, I developed modesty, had a weird dream, reading vampire book, need help translating ‘Miu’. Everyone go the Rurouni Kenshin Text Archive, go to lemon/adult and read the file ambs.txt, I believe. It’s one the BEST Aoshi/Misao blanket scenarios I’ve ever read! Aoshi uses Kaiten Kenbu...in a very INTERESTING way. ::drools in envy of Misao:: Onward! ******************************** Chapter VII: Surprise Surprise Misao fought the urge to tap her fingers against her desk as she gazed at one tense looking Saitoh Hajime who was leaning against Aoshi’s desk. ‘Ooooh run out of places to put the nicotine patches?’ she thought, stifling a laugh. “So, what brings the Mibu wolf down here? You needed to speak with us?” Misao said, finally breaking the silence. Saitoh pulled out a cigarette, lighting it. “Yes, I have a matter of urgency that needs taking care of, but unfortunately I am unable to take matters directly into my own hands. This is why, despite my wanting to, I need both yours and Shinomori’s help.” “What is your situation exactly?” Aoshi asked, adjusting his reading glasses. Misao briefly glanced at him, suppressing the urge smile at how cute he looked with them on. “I need you to trail and keep surveillance on this woman.” he began, sliding a picture of a woman onto Misao’s desk. She studied the picture of a woman in her thirties with long brown hair and amber eyes. “She’s pretty. So what’s her story? Theif, drug-dealer, prostitute?” Misao asked, setting the picture down. She didn’t miss the tick in Saitoh’s jaw. “Her name is Tokio. She’s my wife.” “EEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHH???????” Aoshi blinked. ‘Someone married him?’ he thought. “You’re married? My condolences to Tokio-san.” Misao murmured. Saitoh shot her narrowed look. “Why are we trailing your wife?” Aoshi asked, curious. It was very rare to see Saitoh...so nervous. “She’s been acting strange for the past month. Secretive, lying about her whereabouts...I am concerned.” “So this is more of a favor than work? Hmmmmm.....give us a minute to discuss this. Be a doll and get some tea.” Misao said with a smile. “I’m not your damn maid.” “Yes, you would look terrible in an apron.” she said, brushing him off. Saitoh grumbled and headed for the break room, swearing one day the weasel would get hers. “What do you think Aoshi-sama?” Misao asked, leaning in and talking softly to Aoshi. “He seems quite troubled. “ ”Yes he does. Well, we don’t have much work lately.” “He would owe us a favor.” “Yes, he would. So, are we in?” “Aa.” “Well then that’s settled.” Misao said, lightly slapping her palms onto her desk. Saitoh returned minutes later with two cups of coffee. “Weasel, Ice Block.” he murmured, setting each cup down. “We’ve come to a decision. We’ll tail your wife...” “Good.” “BUT! You’re going to owe us big time, wolf boy.” Misao murmured, cracking her knuckles. Aoshi watched with mild amusement how tense Saitoh was. It almost made him want to attempt a smile, but not that much. Ever since having the misfortune of meeting Saitoh, Aoshi had to put up with years of his snide behavior. The man irritated him a great deal, but work was work. And as much as it was a temptation to use Saitoh as target practice, he was forced to tolerate the man. Seeing him nervous and attempting to hide his distraught over his wife had just become the highlight of knowing Saitoh Hajime. “I see you find this somewhat amusing, Shinomori? Tell me, is that mark on weasel’s neck your work?” Saitoh asked brusquely. Both Aoshi and Misao’s cheeks reddened slightly. “That information is classified. Now go run off and do whatever the hell you do all day and let us get to work, okay?” Misao said, making a ‘shoo-ing’ gesture with her hand. Saitoh once again gave her a narrowed look and turned off and left, grumbling. “You know what he needs?” she murmured. “What?” Aoshi asked absently, drinking his tea. “A colonic to get rid of all the shit he’s full of.” The sound of Aoshi suddenly choking on his tea was his reply. And thus the surveillance of Saitoh Tokio began. *********************** MONDAY 07:00 Misao groaned as her alarm clock struck, blaring music. From beneath the covers one pale arm reached out and fumbled with the alarm, finally punching it and silencing it. Rubbing her eyes, she sat up, her thick blue colored down comforter pooling around her. “Ugh...hate...morning...wanna sleep...ughhhhhhhhh.” she mumbled, flopping back down onto her back and wincing at the sunlight hitting her eyes. Moments later she got up and dragged herself out of bed and stumbled around her room, grabbing clothes for the day and headed for her bathroom. Aoshi heard the shrill noise of his alarm, and pressed the off button. Sitting up and getting out of bed he stretched and proceeded to do ten push ups, albeit groggily. Once finished he headed for his kitchen and poured himself some milk and contemplated his dreams. It was not the horrible dream of blood and gun smoke. It was something else all together. Warm skin, soft lips, maddening caresses all over his body. Ecstasy was the only word to describe as in the dream he soon found himself staring into bright sea foam blues eyes. He had dreamt of Misao, and quite erotically. Now he had to find a way not to think of the dream while around her. And thus a mantra so horrible to visualize formed in his mind. ‘Okina dancing naked in the rain......’ 09:00 Misao grinned, feeling the wind through her hair as she patted her steering wheel. “Oh my baby! I missed you so!!!” she sighed in joy, briefly hugging the steering wheel of her 1991 sky blue Toyota Celica. It had been getting body work done and had been in the shop for so long Misao was car crazy. She flipped on the car radio, scanning until she found a station that played American songs. With another grin she loudly sang along. And I’ll miss your laugh your smile I’ll admit I’m wrong if you tell me I’m so sick of fights I hate them let’s try this again for real So here I am I’m trying so here I am are you ready Come on let me hold you touch you feel you always kiss you taste you all night and always As she sang she hit the gas more, revving her engine. Aoshi drove carefully through the Kyoto streets, turning the corner and entering the precinct’s parking lot as he caught a flash of blue as he heard a loud engine. Looking next to him he saw Misao park next to him. “Morning, Aoshi-sama!” she said, grabbing her cup of vanilla chai as she slammed her car door shut. “Morning to you.” he murmured, then glanced at the car. “Nice car.” “Thanks, it’s my baby.” she said with a smile, patting the car. They walked in together as Misao stifled a yawn. “So what do you wanna do first? Case report or Saitoh’s dysfunction?” she asked. He paused to think. “Dysfunction.” “Ah, anything to get out of giving Hiko a report. I’m so tempted to let him in onto Saitoh’s request, but I get the feeling it’d be like suicide.” “Aa...” “Tell me Aoshi-sama, what do think Tokio-san is like? I’m not a supporter of adultery, but she IS married to that tar factory.” “I’d imagine she has a strong character. Saitoh dislikes people he thinks are weak.” “Poor you, having to be acquainted with that guy.” Aoshi sighed wistfully. “You have no idea.” Discarding his suit jacket, he sat in his chair and sighed, fighting the urge to yawn. “Rough night?” Misao asked, the tip of a pen resting between her lips. Aoshi looked at her and suddenly wished she’d rid herself of her pen chewing habits. ‘Okina dancing naked in the rain....’ He winced slightly at the thought, but felt somewhat relieved that it helped eased his tension. Amongst other things. ::silver: ohohohohohoho!! Couldn’t resist a kitsune-laugh :: Misao’s brows furrowed as she noticed Aoshi’s obvious tension. Taking the end of her pen out of her mouth, she bit her lip. “Aoshi-sama, is something bothering you?” she asked, resting her chin in her hand. Aoshi blinked and shook his head, exhaling loudly. He glanced at Misao once more, noticing her button up lavender shirt, or rather, how unbuttoned at the collar it was and what a lovely view of he suddenly had. He looked away quickly, feeling his face warming. ‘Damn dream! I can’t even look at her without feeling like...’ ‘Like you’re going explode with lussssssssst?’ “Damn horny id.” he mumbled, and then closed his mouth quickly upon the realization he spoke out loud. “What was that?” Misao asked. “Nothing. Where should we start?” he asked, leaning back in his chair. “Hmmm....well stake-out Saitoh’s house, follow Tokio-san...maybe search the house?” “You think we’d find something?” “No, I’m just curious as hell as what we’d find in the lair of the nicotine ranger.” “....As am I.” Misao shot him a small grin. “Why Aoshi-sama, curiosity now? I AM rubbing off on you.” Aoshi closed his eyes and mentally groaned as he pictured Misao rubbing against him as she had in his dream. ‘Okina dancing naked in the rain..okina dancing naked in the rain....’ Aoshi breathed a relieved sigh. “Why don’t we go stake out the Saitoh residence.” he said, standing up and putting his jacket on quickly, thankful it was a long cut as to hide his..’growing’ problem. Never in a million years did Shinomori Aoshi think he’d be facing this particular dilemma. And all because of Misao no less. Next thing he knew Saitoh was going to become Buddhist and Hiko was going into rehab. Riiiiiiiight... ******* 1100 Saitoh Residence Misao sat back comfortably in the driver’s seat of her car. Naturally Aoshi had insisted on doing the driving, but unfortunately had mysteriously misplaced his keys. Misao patted her jacket pocket and mentally noted to return his keys later. She had gone WEEKS without driving her car and the withdrawal was too much for her. Aoshi in the meantime understood now why Misao didn’t fear Hiko’s driving that night of the Toukan bust. If Hiko was a scary driver, Misao was down-right heart attack inducing. She had absolutely NO regard for the speed limit. But luckily she seemed to know how to maneuver her car very well at high speeds, and Aoshi quickly felt sympathy for whoever was her driving instructor. “So Aoshi-sama, really, what do you think Tokio-san’s up to? I still think she’s cheating on Saitoh, but there are SO many other things. Or Saitoh could just be paranoid.” “Saitoh has never been the paranoid type, but he does seem uncharacteristically sensitive when it comes to his wife. I suppose love does have some interesting power over people.” And for the first time in their partnership, Misao made no reply. Aoshi regretting his choice of words because he was more and more sure that Misao had strong feelings from him that were a LOT more than childish admiration. She hadn’t admitted them, surprisingly it was one of the few things she kept that pretty little mouth of hers shut about. He clenched his fist as his dream came back to mind, and just how nice her pretty little mouth had been. It had been a rather odd start to a dream, it was cold and there was snow everywhere and he and Misao had been walking. They found a hut for shelter and there was only one blanket to share. It was then that things got quite heated despite the winter setting. The things he’d dreamt......like how she had tied him up.... ‘OKINA NAKED IN THE RAIN!!! OKINA DANCING NAKED IN THE RAIN!!!!!!!!!!!! AH NOT HELPING!!’ Aoshi shifted in his seat and turned himself to face more away from Misao, doing what he could to hide his discomfort. “Aoshi-sama what the HELL is wrong with you today? You’ve been on pins and needles since this morning. Would you tell me what’s wrong or am I going to have to coerce you to spill it?” “Misao, I doubt you’re going to have difficulty in that.” he replied, so tense he didn’t realize what he had said and then prayed she didn’t catch his meaning. “What?” “It’s just tension. I didn’t sleep well last night.” he answered. It was the truth after all, just not all of it. “Yep, I thought so. You’ve been looking like you’re going to shoot off at any moment and explode.” Aoshi closed his eyes, cursing her choice of words. “Just let it go Misao. Keep an eye on the house.” “Fine! Geez....someone’s a crabby patty today.” she huffed, crossing her arms and keeping an eye on Saitoh’s two level simple tan colored house. Misao was annoyed. It was obvious something had Aoshi wound up but he was being stubborn and wouldn’t tell her what was bugging him. It drove her insane because she wanted to help him. She shot a discreet glance back at him and noticed he was squirming slightly in his seat, looking quite uncomfortable and as if he was in deep thought. “Aoshi-sama?” He didn’t seem to hear her so she leaned in closer to him and repeated his name. “Okina dancing naked in the rain..okina...huh wha?” Aoshi murmured, opening his eyes to see Misao VERY close to him, blinking. Then her eyes narrowed. She unbuckled her seat belt and at first Aoshi thought she was going to get out of the car, but was sadly mistaken when she leaned over him completely much to his EXTREME distress and reached for the handle near his knees, pulling it and causing his seat to slide back as far as it could go. “Misao, what are..” he trailed off and his eyes widened slightly as she shifted in her seat, turning her back to the dashboard as she leaned over and grabbed him by the shirt. “I’m going to say this ONE MORE TIME! What. Is. Your. Problem?!” she said through gritted teeth, shifting herself more so she half sitting his lap. Aoshi slumped forward with a groan, his eyes shut tightly. “Misao..please...get off me.” he said quietly from between clenched teeth. Misao frowned and leaned back a little. “Not until you tell me what the hell is wrong with ...wrong with.....” she trailed off as she felt something against her leg, something warm and hard. Her face flushed as she immediately stilled in shock. ‘Oh my God...Oh my God......he’s...’ “Aoshi-sama...you’re.....” “Don’t say it Misao, please. This is bad enough as it is.” he sighed dejectedly. As if things weren’t already odd, now here he was almost completely aroused with the source of his problem almost sitting entirely on his lap. She looked away for a moment, then a small grin appeared on her face. “You know Aoshi-sama, I’d be more than glad to help you here.” Aoshi’s mouth opened in surprise as he unceremoniously shoved her off his lap. Misao laughed softly, trying to hide her slight disappointment. “I was kidding. Maybe I should you a moment with yourself so get everything under control?” Aoshi glared at her. “That will not be necessary. I’d appreciate if this matter is never spoken of again.” “Fine with me. I doubt anyone would believe it anyway. What the heck is on your mind that’s causing...that!” she said. He looked away and didn’t answer, reverting into Ice Block Mode. “Honestly, I can’t imagine what would get you so wound up.” she muttered softly, and Aoshi knew it was more to herself than to him. “Aoshi-sama! It’s her! She’s on the move!” Misao exclaimed suddenly. Aoshi looked out through her window, seeing the brunette woman get into a black car and drive off. “Well we’re getting somewhere here.” Misao muttered, starting her car and began to follow Tokio. 16:00 Somewhere in the heart of Kyoto Misao sighed as she leaned against the wall, Aoshi next to her. “I can’t believe...how much stuff....she bought...so...many...stores.” Misao huffed, trying to catch her breath. “Aa.” Aoshi said, relieved that his little, well not-so-little, problem had settled down. “Aoshi-sama look.” Misao said, nodding her head towards the bar across the street as Tokio walked inside. “Let’s go.” he said softly, looking down at her. “Right.” Misao said, as they jay walked across the street. Ironically. They cautiously entered the bar, which was wood furnished and vaguely resembled a Western Saloon. There were a few people here and there drinking at the bar. It was when the sound of bad singing filled the air that the two realized it was a karaoke bar. “Well, maybe we’ll lucky and finally figure out what Tokio-san is up to. And then maybe later we’ll get lucky.” she said, murmuring the last part in a low voice. His gaze shot to her. “What?” “What?” she questioned back, smiling a mischievous smile. Aoshi shook his head and ushered her to a small booth where they sat and observed Tokio talking with the bar tender. She was laughing and smiling as was the male bartender. Misao smiled a bit and cracked her knuckles. “I knew it. Cheating on the Wolf.” she sighed, shaking her head in mock disgust. “He’s not going to take this very well.” “No shit Sherlock.” she muttered annoyed that he felt the need to point out the obvious as though she couldn’t deduce it for herself. “Fuck you Holmes.” he replied, crossing his arms and giving her a cool glare as he gave a Misao-like response. Instead of scowling she grinned. “Was that an offer, Aoshi-sama?” she whispered breathlessly in her ‘special’ voice. His frame stiffened at her words and his features darkened. “Again. Kidding!” she said defensively. He arched an eyebrow. “Somehow Misao, I highly doubt that.” he murmured, piercing her with his gaze. Misao frowned slightly. ‘He just HAD to resort to the piercing gaze. That alone is one if his best weapons...Mou...he looks so sexy when he stares so intensely....’ “Well since we’re here I better make it so we don’t look suspicious!” she declared, standing up and walking towards the bar. Aoshi watched her and blinked, wondering what she was up to. The whole day so far had been most...unsettling. His small lack of control startled him, for he felt things he had long ago buried. When had been the last time he felt desire for a woman? Felt lust? Of all the people on the planet, he never would have guessed Misao would be the catalyst for unearthing those feelings. But that wasn’t the only feelings she managed to evoke. “Hey everyone!! Are you all ready for some Ayumi-chan?! Ok! Let’s go!!” His thoughts were cut short when he looked up at the stage where Misao now stood, microphone in hand. She looked at him and winked. Winked. Aoshi wasn’t sure whether to gape or scowl. The music began a slow beat as Misao ‘la-ed’ with it, and then the song became faster with pulsing beat. sou daremo kono atarashii jidai o mukaeru mitai ne kiseki teki kamo ne nido to ha chotto ajiwaenai yo ne ::It’s true isn’t it? It seems as though we’re aiming for a new century:: ::It’s miraculous, this is something you can only taste once:: Mou ichido omoidashite ::let’s remember one more time:: kono hoshi ni umare tsuita hi kitto nanda ka ureshikute kitto nanda ka setsunakute bokura ha naiteitanda mae e mae e Oh! Yeah! ::On the day we arrived on this Earth: ::we were somehow happy:: ::and somehow it hurt:: ::We were crying:: ::Oh yeah oh yeah oooh yeahh:: Aoshi was amazed. He knew she could sing well, but this. This song was pretty hard to sing, for the lyrics went quite fast at the chorus. In fact, the chorus appeared to sung in only a couple seconds. Yet she had sung perfectly. genjitsu ha uragiru koto de handan sae ayamaru kara ne soko ni aru kachi ha sono me dechanto migimeteite yo ::reality is a traitor, it’s easy to misjudge things:: ::so with your own two eyes please decide the worth of this place:: jibun no mono sashi de ::do it with your own standards:: konna toki ni umare tsuita yo dakedo nanto ka susundette dakara nanto ka koko ni natte bokura ha kyou o okutteru mae e mae e mae e... konna hoshi ni umare tsuita yo gutto nanda ka ureshikute gutto nanda ka setsunakute ooki na koe de naki nagara mae e mae e Oh! Yeah! ::we’ve arrived in this kind of time:: ::but somehow we’ll die:: ::so somehow we’re standing here:: ::and we’re living through today:: ::oh yeah oh yeah oh yeahhhhhh:: ::We’ve arrived in this kind of world:: ::Somehow I’m happy:: ::and somehow it hurts a lot:: ::while crying at the top of my lungs:: ::oh yeah oh yeah oh yeah:: Everyone watched Misao’s performance, all impressed with the energy she showed. She didn’t notice as her eyes remained fixated on Aoshi. The next lines were the ones she wanted him to pay attention to most. konna toki ni umare tsuita yo dakedo kimi ni deaeta yo konna hoshi ni umare tsuita yo dakedo kimi ni deaeta yo ::I’ve arrived in this kind of time:: ::but I met you:: ::I’ve arrived in this kind of time:: ::but I met you:: kono hoshi ni umare tsuita hi kitto nanda ka ureshikute kitto nanda ka setsunakute bokura ha naiteitanda mae e mae e Oh! Yeah! ::we’ve arrived on this Earth:: ::we are somehow happy:: ::and somehow it hurt:: ::we were crying:: ::oh yeah oh yeah oh yeah:: konna hoshi ni umare tsuita yo kitto nanto ka susundette dakara nanto ka koko ni natte bokura ha kyou o okutteru mae e mae e Oh! Yeah! ::we arrived in this kind of time:: ::but somehow we’ll die:: ::so somehow we’re standing here:: ::and we’re living through today:: ::oh yeah oh yeah:: ::oh! Yeah!:: As the music faded Misao bowed at the applause. “Sank you!!” she said cheerfully as she bounced off stage and back to the booth. “Well Aoshi-sama, how was that?” she asked, relieved when the waitress brought her over some water. “It was very good Misao.” he said simply in his usual monotone voice. Misao pouted slightly and gulped her water. Slamming the cup down on the table she gazed at the bar and noticed Tokio move towards their direction. Correction. Towards them. She stood before the two and crossed her arms, studying the two for a moment. “You two have been following me all day and I get the feeling my husband in behind it.” Misao blinked at her, surprised. “I’m sorry if you think we’re following you but..” “Cut the routine. You guys are cops, I’ve been around enough to know it. Especially your partner here.” she said, pointing to Aoshi. Misao glanced at Aoshi unsure of how to proceed. “Saitoh has been...concerned about you.” Aoshi said flatly. “Concerned? I knew he would get like this. Anytime I remotely keep something from him he gets so paranoid. Why I put up with the man...” “Actually, Tokio-san, why DO you put up with him?” Misao asked, realizing it was rude, but it was just too much of a mystery. Tokio smiled. “Hajime has some...redeeming qualities. You’d be quite surprised.” she murmured. “Redeeming qualities? I can’t imagine what tha...oh.ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh........oh ew!” Misao murmured, wrinkling her nose. “I’ll ignore that insult as I understand my husband isn’t exactly Mr. Congeniality.” she said with a sigh. “Tokio-san, your husband is a man who rarely shows a great deal of concern. He’s been distressed over what you could possibly be hiding from him. He has asked myself and Detective Makimachi to find out what you are up to.” Aoshi explained. Tokio blinked. “Oh he is such a idiot. I can’t believe he had me tailed, by cops no less! Well maybe I will tell you what I’m up to. It would actually help me out.” she said with a cat-like grin. Misao and Aoshi glanced at each other. ********************* 20:00 Outside the Karaoke Bar Saitoh tossed the cigarette that had been in his mouth onto the pavement and placed a new one in his mouth. It was normal for Saitoh to be seen with a cigarette in his mouth, but it was rare to ACTUALLY witness him go through several cigarettes. And he was fidgeting. Misao was so tempted to laugh but held back as they walked towards the bar. Upon returning to the station they called Saitoh, informing they had discovered what his wife was up to, but that he really had to see in person. He arrived quickly and they piled into Aoshi’s car, for Misao’s Celica wasn’t big enough, and headed for the bar. A million thoughts flitted through Saitoh’s mind as to what his wife was up to, but all of them he couldn’t grasp. Some said he was a bastard. An asshole. Manipulative. And he agreed with those sentiments. But no one would ever guess the things he felt when it came to his wife, his Tokio. She was smart, beautiful, witty, tough. His perfect match. And it was killing him that she was keeping something from him. Maybe even cheating on him. He would kill whoever had laid a finger on her, law be damned. “This is Saitoh. You ready?” Misao asked, her hand on the door. “Get moving Weasel.” he said roughly. Misao rolled her eyes and opened the door, leading Saitoh and Aoshi into the dark bar. It was quiet for a moment....time stood still for Saitoh Hajime.... And then........... “SURPRISEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!” Saitoh blinked. Stunned. There stood his wife, several co-workers, and other acquaintances all with smiles on their faces. “Happy Birthday, Wolf Boy.” Misao snickered, crossing her arms in content. The look on Saitoh’s face was just priceless and by the flash that came from where Aoshi stood she was sure she it was Kodak moment. “Happy Birthday, Anata.” Tokio said with a smile as she wrapped her arms around her husband, kissing him. He returned her kiss and then looked around. The bar had been decorated and their was a banner that read: ‘Happy Birthday Lieutenant” At the table obviously meant for him, he saw something that made his eyes widen and all thoughts of annoyance towards his wife’s crafty deception fade. A big bowl of soba noodles. “Oh, soba!” he murmured, making tracks for the table and Tokio simply laughed and shook her head. Music began and everyone mingled. “Shinomori-san, Makimachi-san, thanks for your help.” Tokio said, approaching the two who were seated at the bar. “No prob, Tokio-san. The look on his face was worth it.” Misao said giving her a ‘V’ sign. “Hey, are we late?” Misao, Aoshi, and Tokio turned to see Kenshin, Sano, Kaoru, and Megumi. “Oh, Hajime’s Tokyo friends. Nice to finally meet you! I’m Saitoh Tokio, Hajime’s wife.” Misao shook her head. ‘Watch out for this one.’ she mouthed out to Kaoru, who nodded in understanding. “Weasel!” Sano said, slapping his hand down on the bar next to her and sliding into the stool next to her. “Rooster, how’s theTranny?” she asked, biting the cherry off the little pink umbrella in her drink. “Running good. I might put on a new exhaust.” he said, shifting as Megumi leaned against his stool, half sitting in his lap as he wrapped an arm around her. “I told the idiot he couldn’t afford that, but he never listens.” Megumi sighed. “Neither do most men.” Misao commented, shooting a glance to Aoshi. “Hey Ice Block, has Weasel made of a man of you yet?” Sano asked after he ordered a bottle of sake. Misao’s cheeks reddened ad Aoshi glared at Sanosuke. “Oh stop teasing them, baka! Aoshi-san may not realize you’re teasing him and Misao-chan doesn’t like you teasing her about things like that.” Megumi said, turning to give Sanosuke a cross look. In which he responded to by kissing her. Misao smiled at the too, but sighed wistfully. She envied them. They were so happy together and honest about how the felt, despite the arguing and teasing. Aoshi noticed Misao’s shoulders slump. He sighed softly. He knew she was trying to hide it, but she was a bit jealous of Sanosuke and Megumi. ‘And you aren’t the least bit envious as well? Somewhere in here you know you want this girl, so why the heck are you denying it so much?’ Aoshi excused himself for a moment to go the bathroom. Misao watched him go, and sighed. “You know, Weasel, keep it up and you just might turn to pine.” Sanosuke commented, taking a sip of sake. “You know, Rooster, that was a bad pun.” Misao replied, grabbing a sake dish and the bottle, pouring herself a dish and gulping it down. “Easy there, Misao-chan. If I remember it doesn’t take much for you to get intoxicated.” Megumi said with a touch of concern. “Don’t worry, Megumi-san. I’ll be careful.” she said. “Too bad Shinomori doesn’t drink, he could use it.” Sanosuke commented. Misao blinked. And smirked. “Bet you 30,000 yen I can get him to drink some sake.” Misao said, rubbing her hands together. Sano cocked an eyebrow and grinned. “Shit, Weasel, you’re on,” he said, sipping more sake,“Alright, easy 30,000.” Aoshi returned to the bar and sat down, noticing the three pairs of eyes on him. He looked at them, giving them a ‘what are you looking at?’ look. Misao grinned and spun her stool to face Sano and Megumi, as she poured more sake into her dish and lifted the dish to lips. Placing it on the bar she gave Sano and Megumi a wink and smirk as she spun back around and jumped out of her stool, pulled Aoshi’s face to hers and planted her lips onto his, coaxing his lips to open. When that happened, his mouth filled with sake and he swallowed it by reflex as he tried not to choke from lack of air and shock. But those sensations faded and the feel of her lips on his took over her senses. She pulled back from lack of air and wiped the traces of sake from her lips. “Pay up, Rooster.” Misao said, smugly facing a stunned Megumi and Sanosuke. “I...can’t believe she did that.” Sano said blinking. “Me neither. That was clever.” Megumi remarked. Regaining control of himself, Aoshi furrowed his brows. “What is this all about?” he asked, his voice low. “Weasel bet me she could get you to drink sake and since I know about you’re whole no tolerance thing I never thought she’d win. I never figured she’d pull a stunt like that though.” Sanosuke said. “I see.” Aoshi murmured. She had poured sake into her mouth and forced it into his when she kissed him, causing him to drink it. She kissed him because of a bet. Or was the bet just an excuse to kiss him? Aoshi wasn’t sure what the answer was, but was sure of one thing. He was quite angry at his partner right now. Sanosuke reached into his wallet and painstakingly gave Misao 30,000 yen. “Damnit, last time I bet with you.” he groaned. “Glad you learned something.” Misao replied, shoving the yen notes into her pocket. Before she could gloat anymore she felt Aoshi grab her by the elbow. “If you’ll excuse us.” Aoshi muttered, leading Misao away from the bar and outside. Misao stumbled along with Aoshi as he led her outside, trying to break the hold he had on her arm, but his grip was strong. He led her across the street to his car, and let go of her arm as she leaned against the driver’s side. “Aoshi-sama, are you mad at me?” she asked, looking up at him with big eyes. She had hoped he wouldn’t be too mad about it. She HAD drunk some sake after all and it was partially to blame for her suddenly bold maneuver. She noticed his features had darkened, hardened. His eyes were like slits of ice as he towered over her. “Mad Misao? At what? That you kissed me to intoxicate me for money?” “I didn’t want to get you drunk, just get you to drink some sake.” He moved closer to her, noticing her breathing falter as he placed his hands on above her shoulders to rest on his car as he leaned towards her more. Her excuse was flimsy. He knew as did she. Maybe it was the sake, or the fire he felt running through his blood at the moment spurned by feelings of anger, or desire, he wasn’t sure which one it was or if it was both. He lowered his head and his lips barely grazed her ear. “I’m more than just mad.” he murmured, his voice sounding like velvet. And without warning his lips slammed onto hers. Misao was initially shocked but then quickly responded, feeling him press against her, his hands grabbing her waist. She rest her hands on his shoulders, and moaned when she felt him thrust his tongue into her mouth. She felt one of his hand stroke her hip and then plunge into her pocket suddenly and as he withdrew his hand he pushed away from her. Misao gasped for breath, her eyes wide as she saw the 30,000 yen in his hand. A small smirk appeared on his slightly red face. “Now we’re even.” he murmured as he brushed past her to unlock his car door. She backed away from the car to let him open the door. “You’re leaving?” she asked quietly, unable to look him in the face. “Aa. Did you need a ride?” “No! I’ll just get one from Sano and Megumi.” she said quickly, her face red from the sake and from him. ‘I can’t believe he did that!!’ she thought, the memory burned into her mind. From what she felt when he pressed against her, he was definitely no eunuch. Aoshi got into his car and drove off, his mind a whirl. “I can’t believe she did that. And that I did that.” he murmured to himself. Maybe it was the sake, maybe it was his anger. But he hadn’t been thinking of that when he had kissed her. The only thing that came to mind was how good her lips against his. And how much he wanted to feel that again. ************************ end of Chapter 7 Ah, so evil I am. I don’t think I explained it earlier, but those who do not know, a eunuch was a palace guard that was castrated to guard women in harems, mistresses, etc. The whole ‘Okina dancing naked in the rain’ isn’t mine, it came from this great Aoshi/Misao fanfic that I CAN’T SEEM TO RECALL! If anyone knows can you jog my memory cuz I remember it was soooo funny. The dream Aoshi had about the snow and blanket was actually based on the Aoshi and Misao Blanket Scenario fanfic in the Rurouni Kenshin Text Archive. If you read it you can understand just WHY Aoshi was so tense. Since everyone REALLY enjoys seeing Aoshi horny, I figured I’d implement that. As for the whole Saitoh/Tokio thing, I enjoy mocking Saitoh a lot. Misao’s car, the Celica, is COMPLETELY based on my friend’s Celica. This guy has an un-Godly fixation on the thing. The song she sings in her car is ‘Always’ by Blink-182 and the song she karaoke’s is ‘Evolution’ by Hamasaki Ayumi. Heheh, poor Aoshi-sama, that whole stake-out scene was so fun to write. Here’s Aoshi all tense and Misao’s choice of words don’t help. The 30,000 yen is a nod to shin-no-shibo’s ‘Pretty Man’. The numbers 9:00, 11:00, etc, are the time. I used 24 hour/military time to break up the scenes since they’re doing a stake-out. It’s almost like ‘A day in the life of’...... Ah! And at last they kiss!!! About time! Crap, I can’t believe they haven’t until now. The hickey doesn’t count as a kiss. Saitoh: Well, looks like Shinomori finally located his testicles. ::whacks Saitoh with a metal fan:: No one asked you, Saitoh. Ugh there’s probably more I wanna say but it’s 1 am....whatever.... Jaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa...