Son of the Shadows RK Style

“Hello Megumi,” Mother greets me with a soft smile graced upon her lips as she walks into the little hut we have converted into a medicinal workshop. “I hope I haven't kept you long.”

“Not at all,” I reply sincerely. “I just finished preparing the medicines a few minutes ago. Haru should be by any minute to pick them up.”

“I was hoping to help you with the herbs but it looks like I'm not needed. It sounds like you have everything under control,” Kaoru states with pride.

With a playful grin I remark, “Of course I do. I have even taken the liberty of preparing tea since I know how horrible your culinary skills are.”

“I have enough skill to make tea,” Kaoru replies with a ‘humph’. “At least none of my patients have ever complained.”

With a giggle I retort, “Even if they didn't like your drafts a wise patient would not be careless enough to anger their healer. One minute they're being checked for a sprain the next they're mysteriously lacking an arm.”

“I would never do that to a patient,” Mother states in slight irritation.

“I know you wouldn't, but others may not,” I sympathetically reply. “Your temper is well known throughout the tuath. It's almost as infamous as father's unexplained amber eyes during his seldom fits of rage.”

“I had no idea that your father and I were the topic of so much controversy these days,” mother comments in amusement.

“Idol tongues do like to wag,” I retort playfully, “Plus it's not like the villagers see a man like father every day. The two of you are a strange coupling.”

“That much is true,” Kaoru states with a joyful chuckle.

I smile back at my mother in awe. First she is talking to me in irritation and now she's laughing. I wonder how she can switch moods with such ease.
Sighing contentedly after taking a sip of tea mother comments, “It really isn't fair that both my daughters can make better tea than me.”

“The Tuatha De Danann must have a good sense of humor,” I retort in amusedly. “Or maybe they took pity on Father and Eriko.”

“Please,” mother states haughtily. “Eriko just likes to complain. I only tampered with her tea once and now she doesn't trust my presence in the kitchen. She never complained much before. As for your father I have only given him previously tested tea and never food. The last thing I want to do is make him sick.”

“I always wondered why Eriko complained over your tea far more than the rest of the household,” I reply with a sly grin. “I should have known that there was some foul plot afoot.”

Mother comments with a shake of the head, “It was only a childish prank but Eriko now is traumatized by the event. She won’t even look at a cup of tea I've prepared let alone take a sip. A single kettle of bad tea and she's traumatized for life. I swear the woman is squeamish.”

“From the stories she’s told I really do not blame her,” I remark with a giggle. “The last cup of tea you prepared for her caused her stomach to ache for two full days. I too would be scared if I were her.”

“I admit that I probably shouldn't have put so much onion in the tea but I didn't expect her to drink two cups nor did I expect that she would have an adverse reaction to the vegetable. How could I have known that onions would make her so sick? She's never made mention of it before,” Kaoru replies guiltily.

Shivering at the thought of drinking onion tea I state regretfully, “I don't know what I would have done if I were in your situation, but she wasn't seriously harmed. Who would have known that onion could make someone so sick? I probably would be just as shocked as you were.”

With a sad smile Mother comments, “That may be true but I still feel guilty over the entire incident.” Looking around the hut she adds with false cheer, “Enough of such topics. Are you looking forward to Enishi and Chizuru's visit?”

Smiling at my mother happily I reply, “I am looking forward to Samhain (sow-an) though I am concerned that Enishi and Chizuru will not appreciate the festivities as much as the rest of us. It might be awkward for the two of them to partake in the old faith being they are Christians.”

“If Chizuru plans to marry Kenji both she and Enishi will have to get used to our practices,” Mother remarks in deep thought. “Besides, your father is Christian and he has no problem participating in our ceremonies.”

“That is true but I'm sure it will be difficult for the two. This is their first time celebrating with our household,” I state in concern.

“You seem very nervous over their visit,” Mother comments somberly. “Is there more to your concern than what you're voicing? If you had another vision....”

“It's nothing like that,” I reply in shock. “I admit that I have been having a strange feeling as of late but I think it's nothing more than unease. I'm probably reading far more into Enishi and Chizuru's visit than I need to.”

“Even if this is true, it does not hurt to prepare one's self. After all, my brother's and I probably wouldn't be alive if we dismissed every bad feeling that came our way. A little concern is always a good thing,” Mother states with a faraway look. As if snapping out of her thoughts she adds with a smile, “Kenji tells me that you’ve invited Chizuru to join you on one of your visits to the village. Supposedly Chizuru is so excited at the prospect of meeting the villagers that she writes of nothing else. Judging from the way Kenji mentioned her excitement I wouldn't doubt that he is jealous over her diverted attentions. Of course your brother is too proud to admit it. Sometimes I think his personality is uncannily like your Uncle Okita’s; At least when it comes to expressing their emotions towards the opposite sex.”

I smile sadly at my mother in sympathy. Though my Uncle Okita and Souzou have been dead for many years their death has caused much suffering for my mother. I really don't blame her for taking their deaths so hard; if I had risked my life numerous times for my brother only to lose him two years after saving him I would be just as tormented. It doesn't help matters that they died brutally while fighting in my Uncle Okubo's failed campaign to reclaim the islands.

Trying to think of a way to change the mood of the conversation I retort playfully, “It seems to be a family trait that thankfully has not been passed onto me.”

With a gleam in her eyes Kaoru replies, “You are so sure of yourself? Have you a beau to attest to this and if you do, I truly hope that your father has not learned of your hidden romance. Your father can be quite overprotective when it comes to such things.”

Haughtily I state, “I do not have a beau and if I did, do you think that I would be able to keep him so well hidden? A secret such as that would take the interest of Misao and her lovely spy-network. It would be pretty hard for her not to notice my late night outings since we do share a room.”
Laughing happily Mother comments, “You do have a point. It does sound like something Misao would be interested in and spreading around the tuath.”

“Besides,” I reply seriously, “I respect both father’s and your opinion. If anything serious were to develop between myself and a young man I would want my parent's approval.”

“I am honored that you feel that way, but sometimes things do not happen as you might plan them. I would have never believed that I would marry a Britain nor do so without my family's knowledge. Though my younger self might have found my decision appalling I wouldn't change it for the world. Your father and I share a love that cannot be merely described by words or gestures. If I had sought my brothers' approval I may have never come to know such joy. If something looks and feels right you should embrace it regardless of our acceptance or not. I'm sure your father would also agree,” Mother remarks with concern.

“Thank you,” I state in shock. “I will keep your words in mind, though I highly doubt I will have suitors anytime soon. After all, Misao is still unwed.”

With an amused smirk Mother replies, “I once told your Uncle Okubo that I would never marry yet here I am wed to a Britain and with three lovely children. You never know what the Tuatha De Danann have in store.”

Just as I'm about to speak I hear a soft knock coming from the door. Rising swiftly from my seat I make my way to the door and let Haru inside. After giving him his instructions and making him repeat them twice for good measure I give Haru his pay before I escort him to the door. With a sigh I take my seat across from Mother once more.

“It is starting to get late and I'm sure you have other duties to attend to such as meeting your father for your daily practice,” Mother comments with a silly grin.

“Must you remind me?” I state in annoyance.

“Is it really so horrible to study under your father?” Mother inquires in concern. “I always found the study of self-defense empowering.”

“You and Misao may enjoy such studies but I would much rather spend my time on other pursuits. Perhaps one of a more feminine nature,” I reply sadly.
“I'm sorry that you do not enjoy it, but it is important that you learn to defend yourself properly. Not every woman is allowed such a luxury,” Mother retorts in slight irritation.

“It's not that I do not appreciate it,” I comment in frustration. “It's just that I feel as if my lack of motivation in the art of swordsmanship is out of place in this family. Misao and Kenji enjoy their lessons and have incredible skill yet all I can think about is studying new herbs and tending to my patients. I really do not look forward to father's lessons.”

“Have you ever told your father how you feel?” Mother asks in sympathy. “I'm sure he would understand if you explained it to him.”

Shaking my head no slowly I reply, “I know how much father enjoys instructing us and I do not want to upset him. I would feel awful if I were to take away father's one time to bond with his children.”

“Your father might be hurt at first, but he would feel worse if he were to find out that you were not enjoying your time with him,” Mother remarks thoughtfully. “Besides, who's to say that you couldn't find another activity to bond with your father over? He has other interests aside from swordsmanship.”

“I know… it's just hard for me to confront father over the topic. I don't want to hurt his feelings. He's so passionate over the art of swordplay,” I state regretfully.

“I understand your hesitance but I assure you that your father is an understanding man. The minute you tell him your feelings the better you will feel and the sooner the two of you will spend quality time with one another.” Rising from her chair mother adds, “If you feel more comfortable I will confront your father for you though I think it would be better if you did so yourself.”

With a sad smile I reply, “That isn't necessary. You should know me better than that. I'm not going to push my responsibilities upon you. I will talk to father; I just need some time to collect my thoughts on the matter.”

“I'm sure you will address the situation well,” Mother states proudly. “You have always had an easy time expressing yourself even if it does sometimes come off blunt. You will do well daughter.”

“Thank you, I think,” I comment in bafflement. Now I have to worry about coming off too harshly!

With a playful smirk Mother mentally replies, “You have nothing to worry about. Your father and I could never take you as too blunt. I just wanted to get you back for implying that Misao and I aren't feminine.”

I smile at my mother as she makes her way out of the hut. Though I might tease her and Misao for enjoying what are considered masculine pursuits I do not view them as being anything less than feminine. If anything I look up to them for their ability to embrace both the feminine and masculine. It's in my nature to tease the ones I care about and I'm sure my mother and Misao have caught onto this. If they hadn't, I'm sure that I wouldn't be on such good speaking terms with the two of them.

Rising from my seat I begin to clean the hut in an attempt to calm my nerves over my upcoming discussion with my father. I truly am not looking forward to this conversation in the least.

*******

After procrastinating as long as I could I finally make my way out of the hut towards the field father has designated as our training grounds. It is an ideal spot being that it is far enough away so as to hide our activities and never frequented by the residents of either the house or the nearby villages. I wouldn't doubt if not a soul had ever set a foot upon the field before father discovered it.
As I make my way to the clearing I notice that father has already instructed Kenji and Misao to practice on their swings. As usual for the two they do not notice my arrival being too caught up in upstaging the other. Father notices my appearance instantly and flashes a bright smile in my direction.
As I make my way toward my father's side he cheerfully states, “I was starting to worry that something might have happened. I know that you have been extremely busy the past few days.”

With a slight pause I reply with a sad smile, “I'm not too busy.”

“Megumi? Are you alright?” Father asks in concern. “You don't seem very happy. Did something happen to you?”

Mentally cursing my luck I giggle sweetly, “Whatever gave you that idea Father?”

“For one, you hesitated when I asked you a question and second you just responded to my question with a giggle. I've heard you laugh in amusement or when you have an extremely devious plan but for the most part you are rather calm. The only time you giggle like that is when you're hiding something,” Father remarks suspiciously.

“Nothing has happened to me, but I do need to talk to you after we're through with training,” I reply sadly. I really did not mean to concern my father, but it seems that nothing ever gets passed him.

“Whatever you wish to speak to me of seems to have consumed your thoughts. You can't train with a wondering mind so why don't we go somewhere private and talk?” Father states sympathetically as he takes my arm and begins to lead me towards the woods.

“What about Kenji and Misao's training?” I inquire frantically. “Won’t they notice that you aren't paying attention to them?”

“I have been talking to you for a while now and they have yet to notice that you have made an appearance,” Father retorts with a smirk. “I doubt they will miss us for a few minutes. Even if they do realize that I am no longer watching them they will do well enough on their own.”

Looking back at my brother and sister I can't help but laugh gaily. The two of them are so intent upon upstaging the other in front of father that they have completely disregarded the whereabouts of the person they hope to impress. As admirable as it is to put so much time and energy into such studies I can't help but laugh at the sibling rivalry. Then again, maybe it's this completive nature that I severely lack that has helped them excel in swordplay.

With an amused tinge to his voice Father states, “Of course if you would rather practice alongside your siblings I will not keep you.”

Snapping my head towards Father I reply swiftly, “Since you so kindly offered to speak to me it would be rude to turn down your offer.”

“Of course,” Father states with a serious face though if I am not mistaken I can sense I slight tinge of concealed regalement. “I am blessed to have such a thoughtful daughter.”

Playing off Father's words I puff out my chest and add cockily, “I am nothing but thoughtful. After all, my parents have taught me well.”

“I must take the time to praise your parents for raising such a well mannered child,” Father playfully comments. “Too many of your age lack common courtesy toward their elders.”

Approaching the edge of the woods I reply pompously, “That means a lot coming from the former Lord of Harrowfield.”

Turning his head towards me he states humbly, “I appreciate the praise though one such as me is not fitting of such a grand title. I no longer am the man I once was nor do I wish to be. I much prefer my new title as Iubdan (you'b dan) of Sevenwaters.”

“Do you detest your past so much?” I inquire thoughtlessly.

Before I can profusely apologize to Father he replies somberly, “It's not a matter of hating my former self as it is understanding that I cannot live in the past. I gave up that title to be with your mother and start a family among her people. Such a title neither holds little respect on these shores nor is mine to claim further. Holding onto such thoughts of former glory is not healthy nor will it help me except my new role in Sevenwaters. Besides, I enjoy the life that I lead. At one time I thought my kingdom was all I needed to be happy but now I realize that to be a falsehood. After meeting your mother I began to dream not for my kingdom but for a life surrounded with love and family. You children and your mother are more valuable to me than any title could ever be.” Smiling at me he continues, “I'd like to think that I grew out of my title.”

“That's quite a romantic notion,” I remark slyly.

“It might be,” Father comments contemplatively as we both take a seat under a large Oak, “But it is nothing less than my inner most thoughts. If that means that I am a romantic so be it. There are far worse things in this world to be.”

“Perhaps,” I reply in deep thought, “Though being romantic to the point of living your life in a dream state in my opinion is a horrible way to live one's life.”

“That is true though anything taken to any extreme can be dangerous. Just as scary as the prospect of dreaming your life away is becoming overly calculating and set in your ways,” Father retorts in good humor. “I have a feeling that the topic in which you wanted to speak to me of has nothing to do with romance or dreaming. After all, what daughter would wish to share such feelings with her old man?”

“You are not that old,” I assert passionately. “I would not find such a topic unmentionable to speak of in your presence though you are correct in assuming that it isn't the topic in which I wanted to address earlier.”

“You and your brother have just turned fifteen and your sister seventeen. I think I have a right to consider myself an old man,” Father states amusedly.

I just shake my head in exasperation. Father may have several years under his belt but he looks and acts like a man several years his junior. In my opinion that means more than a man's actual years.

“I don't know how much longer your siblings will fail to notice our presence or lack thereof,” Father concludes while putting his hands on my shoulder. “If something is bothering you do not fear telling me. I will do what I can to address your problem with a level head.”

Staring Father straight in the eye I state calmly, “I do not wish to insult you or to come off as unappreciative but my heart is not in swordplay or self- defense. I understand the importance of learning such skills, but I do not hold the same passion or enthusiasm that my siblings hold. I am not suggesting that I outright stop practicing with my bow and arrow, but I do not feel that I should hide my lack of motivation from you. I do not think it is fair to do so any further.”

Taking a couple of seconds to take in my expression Father replies calmly, “I'm happy that you had the courage to tell me how you feel. To be completely honest with you I often wondered if you truly wanted to practice alongside your siblings. I figured that if my assumption were correct you would eventually come forward and speak to me. I am proud that to know that I was right. You need not concern yourself with attending practice. If you wish to join us you can, but do not feel obligated to do so. You are more than adequate with a bow and at least know the basics of self-defense. I will not force you to do something that you're not passionate about.”

“Thank you Father,” I exclaim happily as I grab my father in an embrace. “I'm blessed to have such an understanding father.”

With a chuckle Father retorts, “I'm only doing what any decent father would. I couldn't force you to do something against your will. We can find some other pursuit to spend time together. Once you think of something you would like to do come seek me out.”

Giving Father a peck on the cheek I joyfully reply, “I promise to do so. If you don't mind I really ought to tend to my patients.”

“Of course,” Father states with a wide grin. “Come and visit every once in a while when the time permits.”

“I will. I'll talk to you later,” I call back as I make my way through the woods towards my workshop.

*******

The next two weeks passed swiftly. Between tending the fields, preparing the house for the Druids’, Enishi’s and Chizuru's Samhain (sow an) visit, and treating the villager's medicinal needs everyone has been scurrying around the house in excitement, or in my cause exhaustion.

As much as I enjoy my job as a healer, I am constantly drained of energy during the season. It seems that everyone catches some form of cold or flu.
Luckily the cases of illness are few this year and I will not nearly be as exhausted. I might even be able to stay up and enjoy the festivities this time around! I haven't had the chance to do so in many years.

Smiling at the thought I continue to stir the contents of the pot. As usual Eriko has asked for my assistance in preparing the feast. Usually Misao would join us, but since Chizuru needs an escort and Kenji is busy conversing with the other men Misao was the obvious choice. It's not that I couldn't have escorted her myself, but I'm not one for small talk. I do well entertaining when there is a purpose or activity involved but I'm not one for improvising conversation. Misao is far more suited for such a role.

“Ya seem to have yer head i' tha clouds lass,” Eriko states in concern. “Are ya thinkin' of somethin' i' particular? Ya know how much I enjoy yer plots.”

With a sly grin I reply, “Sorry Eriko, I've no plot afoot. If I had, I assure you that I would alert you on the details.”

“I'd hope so!” Eriko saucily retorts. “Wha' fun is a prank if ya'd hold yer tongue?”

Laughing aloud gaily I comment playfully, “A well executed one, though I enjoy gossiping with you too much to take the necessary precautions.”

With a wink Eriko states, “I've no' been one for wha's proper nor shoul' ya. Life ain' much fun when ya play by tha rules.”

“You must feel awfully comfortable in this household to say something of the sort. Most households wouldn't care to have a servant speaking of their rules so lightly,” I amusedly remark.

“Mos' households don' help longside tha servants either,” Eriko retorts pridefully. “Sevenwaters doesn' fi' tha mold o' other houses jus' like you shouldn' fi' the mold o' other daugh'ers.”

“I will keep your word in mind next time I anger one of the household,” I reply smartly.

“Ya'd bes' do, though don' be mentionin' no names. I'd like to keep me job long enough to hear ya Uncle's response,” Eriko states with a boisterous laugh.

“I think the sauce is done,” I comment looking down at the pot.

Taking the ladle from my hands Eriko immediately begins to take a taste of sauce I so tenderly tended to. With a satisfied smile Eriko replies, “I' is. Since there is no'in more lef' ta do ya migh' as well enjoy yerself.”

“Thank you Eriko. I'll see you later,” I happily call back to Eriko as I make my way up to my bedchamber.

“Take care lass and do enjoy yerself,” Eriko quickly replies.

“I will,” I loudly exclaim from the hallway as I begin to formulate a plan for the rest of the afternoon. It will be nice to have some time to myself before the festivities begin.

*******

Having grabbed one of my favorite books on Medicinal Herbs I begin to make my way to the garden. With all the chaos and noise in the house I doubt I would be able to focus on my studies, even if it is my favorite subject. One cannot focus with so much going on around them. It's times like these that I'm happy that few know of my refuge hidden behind the garden. Even if someone wishes to seek me out, I doubt they will know of my whereabouts. Oh, the joys of solitude! Now all I have to do is make sure that Misao isn't following me with Chizuru in tow.

As I turn around the bend suddenly I find myself running into a large body. Said body grabs me around the waist before I can fall on my rear gracelessly. For this I am thankful. The last thing I want to do is show anyone how careless their healer is. It's hard enough to be taken seriously as a female healer I don't need a reputation as ditsy or being not all together.

Still somewhat startled and embarrassed I stutter, “I... I'm so sorry. You aren't hurt, are you?”

With a somewhat muffled laugh, if you can call it that, a deep voice replies, “I'm alright though I think it should be me to ask such a question. Are you alright Megumi?”

Further embarrassed at the fact that I did not recognize the man in front of me I state in bewilderment, “I'm sorry Enishi, I was so excited at the prospect of taking the afternoon off that I did not realize you were there. I hope you will forgive me.”

“That depends,” Enishi remarks with his dead pan, serious voice. “If you promise not to run into anyone else and spend your afternoon in my company, maybe I'll find it in my heart to forgive you. After all, I haven't seen you since Chizuru and I arrived early this morning and even that wasn't long enough.”

Shaking my head in amusement I inquire, “I am flattered that you would wish to spend the afternoon in my company but may I ask why you would seek my companionship? Are you not supposed to be in the middle of a meeting with my Uncle, Kenji and my father?”

“It seems that our meeting adjourned early,” Enishi states with a slight smile though his face is still far too serious. Most people would see his smile as a scowl but I have learned that not to be the case. After years of knowing the man I have come to recognize that he is practically unable to do more than grimace or bare a serious look. One learns to read settle gestures or fluctuations of the voice when dealing with a man such as Enishi.

“I'm happy that your meeting didn't last long,” I reply with a smirk. “I feel bad enough as it is that Chizuru has spent as much of the afternoon with Misao. As much as I love my sister she is much easier to deal with in small doses. After several hours with her, I'm sure Chizuru will come to appreciate Kenji's presence.”

“Never have I seen two sisters who differ more,” Enishi comments contemplatively. “Misao is so... eccentric yet you are so level headed and reserved. How do you manage to keep your emotions in check?”

“It's really not that difficult,” I state in shock at Enishi's blunt words about Misao. “For the most part I enjoy her company, but like I said before, she's easier to take in small doses. Misao is a wonderful sister even if she wears me out at times.”

“Your dedication and faithfulness to your family is very admirable,” Enishi remarks proudly. “It's nice to know that there are people who take their obligation to their family seriously. I find that it's a trait rarely found in women now-a-days.”

Trying to hide my small blush I reply sincerely, “I don't know many women aside those who frequent my Uncle Okubo's halls or those I tend to in the villages but I find it hard to believe that people do not pride themselves in their family. Maybe it is due to my naivety and inexperience, but I find
your words hard to digest.”

“I'm also happy to see that you are as truthful and opinionated as ever,” Enishi states calmly. “There is never a dull moment while in your company. I hope your Uncle has been keeping you on your toes in debate. If I get bored during the festivities, I might just try to coax you into a debate.”

“I highly doubt you will be bored,” I comment wickedly. “With all the women and dancing I'm sure you will find something to amuse yourself with.”

“I am sure that I will, though I am more than certain what will occupy my thoughts,” Enishi remarks assuredly.

I stare at Enishi in shock. I could have sworn that I saw him lingering on my form, but I must be mistaken. It's not that I think I am unattractive or unappealing, but my wit and unwavering attention to my work often deter men. What man would be interested in a woman that has a mind and a life of her own? Misao is a much more likely candidate for marriage. She has no obligations that hold her to our tuath and all the social grace a woman of her standing ought to possess. Not to mention that Misao is also attractive. Enishi wouldn't consider me a worthy wife. Companionship yes, an amusing debate partner most definitely, but not a wife.

“As enjoyable as our talk has been I really ought to check on my little sister. Chizuru and Kenji might be engaged but that does not mean that I will let them out of my sight for too long. I have to keep her virtue in check,” Enishi states firmly.

“I understand, but I assure you that there is nothing to worry over. Knowing my sister she is far too nosy to leave the couple alone for long. Besides, Misao and Chizuru get along well. I doubt Chizuru will be pushing her to leave and Kenji wouldn't speak up in front of your sister,” I reply calmly.

“Though admirable, you truly worry yourself too much over your sister.”

With a slight frown, Enishi retorts, “There is no such thing as a brother concerning himself over his sister too much. You of all people should know this.”

“True, but things are slightly different between my brother and me,” I state wearily. “It's hard not to worry over a twin none-the-less one that is closely bonded to you.”

Slightly uncomfortable over the topic of my brother’s and my ability to speak to one another mentally Enishi says shakily, “Your brother and you probably aren't the best example, but I'm sure you understand what I am trying to express.”

In sympathy over addressing such a poor subject I reply, “I understand it perfectly.”

“Good,” Enishi states in relief. “I really do hate to leave you unaccompanied, but as I stated I have matters to attend to. Farewell Megumi. I expect that you will keep a dance open for me.”

With a smile I comment slyly, “I had no idea that you dance.”

“I have never had the occasion to show off before. Until tonight,” Enishi remarks with a courteous bow of the head. I bow back wordlessly as he begins to make his way toward the house once more.

Quickly turning on my toes I make my way towards my previous destination behind the garden. I need my sanctuary and book more than ever if I wish to clear my mind of the conversation I just shared with Enishi. I can't help but be concerned that after tonight everything I once perceived as truth will be shattered.