Reimeiroku Harada Route Chapter 4 (Part 1)
Harada Route Chapter 3
On 6/4, there was a stir in the compound when Serizawa, Kondou, and the others returned from Osaka. Serizawa caused a commotion again, which wasn't surprising.
Shinpachi: Geez. What do Souji, Saitou, and Sannan-san think of me?
Heisuke: Cheer up, Shinpatsuan! That gloomy face doesn't suit you!
Sano: Hey, Shinpachi, are you okay? Jokes apart, you really don't look well.
Shinpachi: It's no laughing matter, Sano! Because I... I... It's like I was taken to Osaka just to be Serizawa-san's tranquilizer! Souji and Saitou are so heartless! They just leave the most troublesome task to me! How I wish Ryunosuke were there. At least I won't be the one always getting the short end of the stick.
Ryu: Don't talk nonsense. I feel sorry for you though.
Shinpachi: I understand now, Ryunosuke! After this trip, I fully understand! What a tough life you live, tending Serizawa-san around the clock! I learned it the hard way!
Sano suggested him to change the mood with sword practice, and offered to accompany him.
Shinpachi: Grab the sword firmly! Stand up straight!
His roar rang across the courtyard of Mibu Temple. It's hard to imagine how withered he was a moment ago.
Shinpachi: Did you become a group of sissy while I'm gone? You there! Don't slack off! If you have free time, spar with me!
Soldier: Na... Nagakura-san! Have mercy...
Shinpachi: What do you mean have mercy? Is that gonna save your ass in real combat?
As he walked around, Shinpachi's wooden sword smashed mercilessly on the soldiers'.
Shinpachi: Ryunosuke! Your step is too shallow! Your sword lacks strength this way!
Ryu: Why me? Even the soldiers can't keep up with you, what do you expect from me?
Ryu could barely catch his breath in this intense training.
Shinpachi: Don't be a crybaby! You'll thank me when you need it!
Ryu: Oh yeah? I don't need to fight to begin with!
When both side raised their voice, Sano stepped between.
Sano: Now, now. Don't fight. Ryunosuke is trying in his way. Can't you give him a little credit, Shinpachi?
Shinpachi: Even if you say so... Look at his stance. I don't feel any enthusiasm in him.
Shinpachi: Alright, you over there! Goofing off while I'm not looking huh? I'll knock some sense into you!
Ryu let out a sigh of relief while Shinpachi ran toward the other soldiers.
Sano: Ryunosuke, what Shinpachi said is right. You should be more devoted when practicing.
Ryu: Whatever. I'm not interested in swordsmanship at all.
The torture continued until Shinpachi was satisfied.
Shinpachi: Ahh. That feels great. Exercise is indeed the best remedy. Everyone take a break now. You must be a little tired from practicing without eating and drinking, right?
Ryu leaned on his wooden sword to barely keep standing.
Ryu: Not just "a little". Geez. If you don't like to deal with Serizawa-san, don't go to Osaka with him in the first place! It's like you're taking it out on us.
Shinpachi scratched his head, seemed rather troubled.
Shinpachi: That's... Well, there are lots of reasons.
Ryu: Is it because Serizawa-san is the commander, so you can't disobey him? That's understandable. But still, taking it out on the soldiers isn't cool.
Shinpachi: No. I'm not following him because he's the commander.
Ryu: No? Ah, I know. Is it because you are from the same school?
To Ryu's stream of questions, Shinpachi replied with a bitter smile.
Shinpachi: Well, that's one of the reasons. But there's more to it. How should I put it... I don't dislike Serizawa-san.
Ryu: Eh? After that mess he dragged everybody into? You're weird.
Shinpachi: No! I mean, it'll be great if he can change his drinking habit and stop being a troublemaker for Roshigumi. But um....
Shinpachi suddenly looked serious.
Shinpachi: Not matter what people say, there is logic in his argument. And without Serizawa-san, Roshigumi wouldn't even exist, right? Think about it. Were it not for him, we wouldn't have Aizu Clan backing us up, and would have no choice but to be driven back to Edo.
Shinpachi: Indeed, his behaviors are often extraordinary. But that's no reason to deny everything he says and does. He has demerits. Lots. But I don't want to be so narrow-minded as to ignore his good side because of that.
Ryu: You have a point.
Sano: It's about time I leave for patrol. I need to go and change clothes.
Shinpachi: Alright. You go ahead, Sano. We're about to begin the next round.
Ryu: You're not done yet?
Among a group of exhausted soldiers, Shinpachi was the only one still energetic. The others looked at Shinpachi like he's some kind of monster.
Ryu tried to escape but Shinpachi grabbed him.
Shinpachi: Of course you're not leaving in the middle of a training session, are you?
Ryu: Of course I am! My bones are gonna fall apart. No way am I staying!
Sano suddenly said he promised to take Ryu out for patrol today. Shinpachi wondered why, since Ryu wasn't a formal member. Sano explained that it's because Ryu need to go shopping for Serizawa-san, and it's safer to go with them. So Shinpachi finally let Ryu go.
A short while later...
Sano: Hey, why the long face? I saved you, didn't I?
Ryu: You did. But why do I actually have to join the patrol? Wasn't that only an excuse to convince Nagakura?
Sano: I hate to lie. If I don't bring you along, that would make it a lie, wouldn't it? Or would you prefer to go back to Shinpachi's sword class?
Ryu: Is there an option of "neither above"?
It was a peaceful day. The bell rang and announced it's six at dusk, meaning it's time for nightlife to begin. Ryu saw some maikos walking by, perhaps on their way to banquets. The sight of maikos walking with long belts swaying behind them reminded him of Kosuzu. Unconsciously he stopped to watch.
Sano: Ryunosuke, what is it? Don't fall behind.
Sano noticed what he's watching and started teasing him, asking if he's thinking of a certain maiko.
Ryu: Can't I? What I look at and what I think of are my own business.
Sano: Whoa, Runosuke? I thought for certain you'd say "no way!" You're so honest that it's not like you. Did you eat something strange?
Ryu: Cut it out. It's because they wear similar clothes. No big deal.
Sano: This is getting serious. You think of her just by seeing other maikos? At this rate, time will come when you have to put her on the scales.
Ryu: Eh?
That night after they came back from Shimabara, Ryu told Sano that Kosuzu looked so sorrowful when they left.
Sano: That's how women are. When a girl sees the man she loves going to cross a dangerous bridge, she'd cry and grab him, and refuse to let him go. At situation like this, the man will have to make a choice. To let go of the girl and pursue his dream, or to stay with the girl he loves. Someday you may have to put your dream and love on the scales to weight it.
Ryu: Like I said before, that's not gonna happen. I don't have anything to put on the scales to compare with.
Sano's smile seems somewhat lonely, just like that night. It made Ryu feel uneasy. So he added.
Ryu: I think of her because we left in haste that night, and I didn't say goodbye properly. That's all.
Sano's expression softened. He told Ryu it's alright to admit that he wanted to see her. Simply put, just accompany Serizawa-san the next time he goes to Shimabara.
Ryu: Hey! Who said I want to see her?
Sano: See how red your face is! It's nothing to be embarrassed of.
Ryu: Sh... Shut up! We're in the middle of patrol, right? Is this the occasion to chitchat?
Sano: Whoa. You suddenly become so serious at work. Alright. Alright.
Ryu suddenly remembered that Serizawa almost drank up all the sake he bought before, so he better buy more. Sano asked if anyone wants to accompany Ryu. But Ryu said he can go by himself and catch up with them later. When Ryu ran back with sake, he saw the group with asagiiro haori at the end of the alley. "That haori sure is eyecatching." Ryu thought as he chased them.
As he came near, he noticed someone walking a little behind the group. Ryu recognized that's Sasaki. That's strange, because Sasaki was very enthusiastic when they were in the main street earlier today.
Ryu: Is anything wrong? You're falling behind. If you don't feel well, better tell Harada and ask to be dismissed.
Sasaki: No. I'm not feeling sick. Don't worry.
But Sasaki still looked around nervously, like he's avoiding someone.
Sano: Oh, you're back, Ryunosuke. I heard you talking. Is anything wrong?
Sano heard them and walked back toward them. Sasaki straightened up, and replied that everything's fine.
That night, Serizawa told Ryu to get Shinpachi to accompany them to Shimabara.
Shinpachi: No! Please! I thought I can finally be freed from being Serizawa-san's tranquilizer after coming back to Kyoto. Not again! Gimme a break!
Ryu: I'm only a messenger. Take your complaints to Serizawa-san.
Shinpachi: Ah! My stomach!
Shinpachi crouched, pressing his belly.
Shinpachi: Ryunosuke, tell Serizawa-san I'm seriously sick and can't go drinking tonight, 'kay?
Ryu: That looks totally fake! C'mon. Niimi-san and Hirama aren't here tonight. If you don't go, I'll have to deal with a drunken Serizawa-san all by myself! I understand how you feel. But give up for today.
Shinpachi: What kind of reasoning is that? If you don't want to deal with Serizawa-san, then don't go either.
Ryu: That's... That's not gonna work. I don't think Serizawa-san can accept going alone.
That was actually a good suggestion. Ryu tried to remain calm and denied it. He didn't want to let the chance of meeting Kosuzu slip by. In the argument, Sano popped in and said he could go. Ryu wondered why. But Sano didn't reply and only urged him to leave.
Serizawa was already waiting outside, and obviously in a bad mood because of the wait. Sano spoke before Serizawa released his anger.
Sano: Serizawa-san, would you allow me to join you instead of Nagakura tonight?
Serizawa: Well. That's rare.
Serizawa's eyes narrowed, like he's rather amused. He gazed at Sano. Surprisingly, he gave a yes without problem, and walked off. Ryu felt relieved that Serizawa accepted it easily. Then he saw Sano's big grin.
Sano: It'll be great if we get to meet a sweet maiko tonight, right?
Ryu: What... what? Don't tell me you're...
Ryu stepped back into the house, but Sano grabbed him.
Sano: Whoa! You're dropping out now? Ready to face Serizawa-san's wrath?
Ryu: Dammit!
Kosuzu: My name is Kosuzu. Thank you for appointing me.
Ryu: Kosuzu.
Ryu waved and called her to sit by his side, to keep her away from Serizawa.
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han. Thank you for your aijou*.
*Aijou: a note sent to geisha house to appoint a geisha or meiko to the banquet.
Ryu: Err... don't mention it.
Can't look at her in the eye, Ryu looked around randomly. Kosuzu seemed confused.
Sano: Ryunosuke, what are you doing? See? You made her feel uneasy. Be more straightforward. You have a lot to say, don't you?
Ryu: Even if you say so...
Indeed Ryu wanted to see her. But when they do meet, he didn't know what to say.
Sano: Take your time. I'll deal with Serizawa-san tonight.
Then he continued to keep Serizawa company.
Sano: Where were we? Ah. So you taught those sumo wrestlers a lesson?
Serizawa seemed to be in a good mood, with Sano leading the conversation.
Kosuzu: Um... Ibuki-han, why did you send me an aijou?
Ryu: Does it matter?
Ryu felt uneasy to explain. So he pretended he doesn't care.
Ryu: There's no special meaning to it. Even if there is, what's the point of telling you?
Kosuzu: I see. I'm sorry, Ibuki-han. I asked a boring question. Please accept my apology.
As Kosuzu bowed down, something hit Ryu's forehead. He looked around and saw am empty sake bottle rolling.
Sano: Sorry. My hand slipped.
Sano apologized while shaking his hand. But he gave Ryu a stern stare. Ryu realized it was his fault.
Ryu: I... was wrong when I said it doesn't matter. How should I put it...? Anyway. I wondered if you're doing fine, so I sent the aijou. That's all. Nothing special.
Kosuzu batted her eyes, and then giggled.
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han and Harada-han are always like this.
Kosuzu: Ah... The inro* Ibuki-han carries is very cute. What's inside?
*Inro = a small medicine case.
Ryu: This? Don't get your hopes up. I'm not using it now. So it's empty.
Ryu untied it from his belt and handed it to Kosuzu.
Ryu: It was for my mother's medicine. She died earlier this year, so I don't need to carry it anymore. But it became a habit, I guess.
Kosuzu: I'm sorry, Ibuki-han. I asked a question out of place.
Her face clouded from feeling sorry wholeheartedly.
Ryu: Don't let it bother you. Actually, we weren't in good terms. So it's not like I'm heartbroken or something.
Kosuzu nodded. But she still looked woeful. Comforting words didn't work, so Ryu decided to change the subject.
Ryu: About this inro. There's a little trick to it.
Kosuzu: Trick?
Ryu: Yep. There's a device hard to notice unless you examine really carefully. Its bottom is double-layered.
Ryu clicked open the bottom and revealed the small space in between.
Ryu: This is good for hiding something important, so no one else can find it.
Kosuzu: Wow. That's a delicate device.
Kosuzu's eyes gleamed with interest. She stared at the inro for a while, and then suddenly suggested.
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han, can you put sweets in it? The inro is so beautiful. It looks lonely being empty.
Ryu: Nah. I have no sweet tooth. And there's no need to find an use for an empty inro.
Kosuzu: But it's such a waste...
Kosuzu wouldn't be Kosuzu if she gives up so easily. She looked around in search of something to put inside.
Kosuzu: I get it. I will find something fitting for this inro. You can count on me.
Ryu: You get what? Hey, I really don't need sweets...
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han, I will bring something. Can we meet outside tomorrow?
Ryu: Huh?
Why is she so persistent on the inro? Ryu stared in amazement, and made Kosuzu felt uneasy.
Kosuzu: Is it alright? If it's too much trouble for you to meet a meiko outside...
Ryu: No... no! No trouble at all. And it's not like I don't want to meet you...
Ryu felt that Kosuzu had been leading the conversation all night. But oh well. It's not so bad.
Outside Sumiya, Harada was all smiles.
Sano: Isn't it great, Ryunosuke? Looks like you two had a great time together.
Ryu: Shaddup.
Kosuzu even whispered "Ibuki-han, see you tomorrow" before she left.
Sano: Why do you look so grim? Tomorrow is your big day. Just smile, 'kay?
Ryu: You... you heard it?
In surprise, Ryu raised his voice. That caught Serizawa's attention. Annoyed, Serizawa asked what he's yelling for.
Sano: Now, now. Don't blame him for getting a little too excited. After all, it's been a while since Serizawa-san brought him to Shimabara.
Sano changed the subject, and helped Serizawa as he started to walk out.
Ryu: Um...
Serizawa didn't yell or break anything after drunk tonight. It was thanks to Sano keeping Serizawa company that Ryu and Kosuzu can talk all night undisturbed. Ryu knew full well that Sano didn't really enjoy drinking with Serizawa. Although he usually would say Sano did things unasked for, he knew this time he owed Sano big time.
Ryu: ... Sorry.
Still can't say "thank you" out straight, Ryu whispered.
Sano, with one arm holding Serizawa, didn't look back and just gave Ryu a wave with his other hand.
Interlude #45 - Love With No Future
Personal comments:
1. A chapter full of big brother Sano and his kawaii love birds. :D
2. When reading that paragraph in Mibu Temple, I can't get the image of Duracell bunnies out of my head: one bunny still live and kickin', while other bunnies were flat on the floor. XD Shinpachi sure is fun in this chapter... and serious too (his comment about Serizawa).
On 6/4, there was a stir in the compound when Serizawa, Kondou, and the others returned from Osaka. Serizawa caused a commotion again, which wasn't surprising.
Shinpachi: Geez. What do Souji, Saitou, and Sannan-san think of me?
Heisuke: Cheer up, Shinpatsuan! That gloomy face doesn't suit you!
Sano: Hey, Shinpachi, are you okay? Jokes apart, you really don't look well.
Shinpachi: It's no laughing matter, Sano! Because I... I... It's like I was taken to Osaka just to be Serizawa-san's tranquilizer! Souji and Saitou are so heartless! They just leave the most troublesome task to me! How I wish Ryunosuke were there. At least I won't be the one always getting the short end of the stick.
Ryu: Don't talk nonsense. I feel sorry for you though.
Shinpachi: I understand now, Ryunosuke! After this trip, I fully understand! What a tough life you live, tending Serizawa-san around the clock! I learned it the hard way!
Sano suggested him to change the mood with sword practice, and offered to accompany him.
Shinpachi: Grab the sword firmly! Stand up straight!
His roar rang across the courtyard of Mibu Temple. It's hard to imagine how withered he was a moment ago.
Shinpachi: Did you become a group of sissy while I'm gone? You there! Don't slack off! If you have free time, spar with me!
Soldier: Na... Nagakura-san! Have mercy...
Shinpachi: What do you mean have mercy? Is that gonna save your ass in real combat?
As he walked around, Shinpachi's wooden sword smashed mercilessly on the soldiers'.
Shinpachi: Ryunosuke! Your step is too shallow! Your sword lacks strength this way!
Ryu: Why me? Even the soldiers can't keep up with you, what do you expect from me?
Ryu could barely catch his breath in this intense training.
Shinpachi: Don't be a crybaby! You'll thank me when you need it!
Ryu: Oh yeah? I don't need to fight to begin with!
When both side raised their voice, Sano stepped between.
Sano: Now, now. Don't fight. Ryunosuke is trying in his way. Can't you give him a little credit, Shinpachi?
Shinpachi: Even if you say so... Look at his stance. I don't feel any enthusiasm in him.
Shinpachi: Alright, you over there! Goofing off while I'm not looking huh? I'll knock some sense into you!
Ryu let out a sigh of relief while Shinpachi ran toward the other soldiers.
Sano: Ryunosuke, what Shinpachi said is right. You should be more devoted when practicing.
Ryu: Whatever. I'm not interested in swordsmanship at all.
The torture continued until Shinpachi was satisfied.
Shinpachi: Ahh. That feels great. Exercise is indeed the best remedy. Everyone take a break now. You must be a little tired from practicing without eating and drinking, right?
Ryu leaned on his wooden sword to barely keep standing.
Ryu: Not just "a little". Geez. If you don't like to deal with Serizawa-san, don't go to Osaka with him in the first place! It's like you're taking it out on us.
Shinpachi scratched his head, seemed rather troubled.
Shinpachi: That's... Well, there are lots of reasons.
Ryu: Is it because Serizawa-san is the commander, so you can't disobey him? That's understandable. But still, taking it out on the soldiers isn't cool.
Shinpachi: No. I'm not following him because he's the commander.
Ryu: No? Ah, I know. Is it because you are from the same school?
To Ryu's stream of questions, Shinpachi replied with a bitter smile.
Shinpachi: Well, that's one of the reasons. But there's more to it. How should I put it... I don't dislike Serizawa-san.
Ryu: Eh? After that mess he dragged everybody into? You're weird.
Shinpachi: No! I mean, it'll be great if he can change his drinking habit and stop being a troublemaker for Roshigumi. But um....
Shinpachi suddenly looked serious.
Shinpachi: Not matter what people say, there is logic in his argument. And without Serizawa-san, Roshigumi wouldn't even exist, right? Think about it. Were it not for him, we wouldn't have Aizu Clan backing us up, and would have no choice but to be driven back to Edo.
Shinpachi: Indeed, his behaviors are often extraordinary. But that's no reason to deny everything he says and does. He has demerits. Lots. But I don't want to be so narrow-minded as to ignore his good side because of that.
Ryu: You have a point.
Sano: It's about time I leave for patrol. I need to go and change clothes.
Shinpachi: Alright. You go ahead, Sano. We're about to begin the next round.
Ryu: You're not done yet?
Among a group of exhausted soldiers, Shinpachi was the only one still energetic. The others looked at Shinpachi like he's some kind of monster.
Ryu tried to escape but Shinpachi grabbed him.
Shinpachi: Of course you're not leaving in the middle of a training session, are you?
Ryu: Of course I am! My bones are gonna fall apart. No way am I staying!
Sano suddenly said he promised to take Ryu out for patrol today. Shinpachi wondered why, since Ryu wasn't a formal member. Sano explained that it's because Ryu need to go shopping for Serizawa-san, and it's safer to go with them. So Shinpachi finally let Ryu go.
A short while later...
Sano: Hey, why the long face? I saved you, didn't I?
Ryu: You did. But why do I actually have to join the patrol? Wasn't that only an excuse to convince Nagakura?
Sano: I hate to lie. If I don't bring you along, that would make it a lie, wouldn't it? Or would you prefer to go back to Shinpachi's sword class?
Ryu: Is there an option of "neither above"?
It was a peaceful day. The bell rang and announced it's six at dusk, meaning it's time for nightlife to begin. Ryu saw some maikos walking by, perhaps on their way to banquets. The sight of maikos walking with long belts swaying behind them reminded him of Kosuzu. Unconsciously he stopped to watch.
Sano: Ryunosuke, what is it? Don't fall behind.
Sano noticed what he's watching and started teasing him, asking if he's thinking of a certain maiko.
Ryu: Can't I? What I look at and what I think of are my own business.
Sano: Whoa, Runosuke? I thought for certain you'd say "no way!" You're so honest that it's not like you. Did you eat something strange?
Ryu: Cut it out. It's because they wear similar clothes. No big deal.
Sano: This is getting serious. You think of her just by seeing other maikos? At this rate, time will come when you have to put her on the scales.
Ryu: Eh?
That night after they came back from Shimabara, Ryu told Sano that Kosuzu looked so sorrowful when they left.
Sano: That's how women are. When a girl sees the man she loves going to cross a dangerous bridge, she'd cry and grab him, and refuse to let him go. At situation like this, the man will have to make a choice. To let go of the girl and pursue his dream, or to stay with the girl he loves. Someday you may have to put your dream and love on the scales to weight it.
Ryu: Like I said before, that's not gonna happen. I don't have anything to put on the scales to compare with.
Sano's smile seems somewhat lonely, just like that night. It made Ryu feel uneasy. So he added.
Ryu: I think of her because we left in haste that night, and I didn't say goodbye properly. That's all.
Sano's expression softened. He told Ryu it's alright to admit that he wanted to see her. Simply put, just accompany Serizawa-san the next time he goes to Shimabara.
Ryu: Hey! Who said I want to see her?
Sano: See how red your face is! It's nothing to be embarrassed of.
Ryu: Sh... Shut up! We're in the middle of patrol, right? Is this the occasion to chitchat?
Sano: Whoa. You suddenly become so serious at work. Alright. Alright.
Ryu suddenly remembered that Serizawa almost drank up all the sake he bought before, so he better buy more. Sano asked if anyone wants to accompany Ryu. But Ryu said he can go by himself and catch up with them later. When Ryu ran back with sake, he saw the group with asagiiro haori at the end of the alley. "That haori sure is eyecatching." Ryu thought as he chased them.
As he came near, he noticed someone walking a little behind the group. Ryu recognized that's Sasaki. That's strange, because Sasaki was very enthusiastic when they were in the main street earlier today.
Ryu: Is anything wrong? You're falling behind. If you don't feel well, better tell Harada and ask to be dismissed.
Sasaki: No. I'm not feeling sick. Don't worry.
But Sasaki still looked around nervously, like he's avoiding someone.
Sano: Oh, you're back, Ryunosuke. I heard you talking. Is anything wrong?
Sano heard them and walked back toward them. Sasaki straightened up, and replied that everything's fine.
That night, Serizawa told Ryu to get Shinpachi to accompany them to Shimabara.
Shinpachi: No! Please! I thought I can finally be freed from being Serizawa-san's tranquilizer after coming back to Kyoto. Not again! Gimme a break!
Ryu: I'm only a messenger. Take your complaints to Serizawa-san.
Shinpachi: Ah! My stomach!
Shinpachi crouched, pressing his belly.
Shinpachi: Ryunosuke, tell Serizawa-san I'm seriously sick and can't go drinking tonight, 'kay?
Ryu: That looks totally fake! C'mon. Niimi-san and Hirama aren't here tonight. If you don't go, I'll have to deal with a drunken Serizawa-san all by myself! I understand how you feel. But give up for today.
Shinpachi: What kind of reasoning is that? If you don't want to deal with Serizawa-san, then don't go either.
Ryu: That's... That's not gonna work. I don't think Serizawa-san can accept going alone.
That was actually a good suggestion. Ryu tried to remain calm and denied it. He didn't want to let the chance of meeting Kosuzu slip by. In the argument, Sano popped in and said he could go. Ryu wondered why. But Sano didn't reply and only urged him to leave.
Serizawa was already waiting outside, and obviously in a bad mood because of the wait. Sano spoke before Serizawa released his anger.
Sano: Serizawa-san, would you allow me to join you instead of Nagakura tonight?
Serizawa: Well. That's rare.
Serizawa's eyes narrowed, like he's rather amused. He gazed at Sano. Surprisingly, he gave a yes without problem, and walked off. Ryu felt relieved that Serizawa accepted it easily. Then he saw Sano's big grin.
Sano: It'll be great if we get to meet a sweet maiko tonight, right?
Ryu: What... what? Don't tell me you're...
Ryu stepped back into the house, but Sano grabbed him.
Sano: Whoa! You're dropping out now? Ready to face Serizawa-san's wrath?
Ryu: Dammit!
Kosuzu: My name is Kosuzu. Thank you for appointing me.
Ryu: Kosuzu.
Ryu waved and called her to sit by his side, to keep her away from Serizawa.
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han. Thank you for your aijou*.
*Aijou: a note sent to geisha house to appoint a geisha or meiko to the banquet.
Ryu: Err... don't mention it.
Can't look at her in the eye, Ryu looked around randomly. Kosuzu seemed confused.
Sano: Ryunosuke, what are you doing? See? You made her feel uneasy. Be more straightforward. You have a lot to say, don't you?
Ryu: Even if you say so...
Indeed Ryu wanted to see her. But when they do meet, he didn't know what to say.
Sano: Take your time. I'll deal with Serizawa-san tonight.
Then he continued to keep Serizawa company.
Sano: Where were we? Ah. So you taught those sumo wrestlers a lesson?
Serizawa seemed to be in a good mood, with Sano leading the conversation.
Kosuzu: Um... Ibuki-han, why did you send me an aijou?
Ryu: Does it matter?
Ryu felt uneasy to explain. So he pretended he doesn't care.
Ryu: There's no special meaning to it. Even if there is, what's the point of telling you?
Kosuzu: I see. I'm sorry, Ibuki-han. I asked a boring question. Please accept my apology.
As Kosuzu bowed down, something hit Ryu's forehead. He looked around and saw am empty sake bottle rolling.
Sano: Sorry. My hand slipped.
Sano apologized while shaking his hand. But he gave Ryu a stern stare. Ryu realized it was his fault.
Ryu: I... was wrong when I said it doesn't matter. How should I put it...? Anyway. I wondered if you're doing fine, so I sent the aijou. That's all. Nothing special.
Kosuzu batted her eyes, and then giggled.
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han and Harada-han are always like this.
Kosuzu: Ah... The inro* Ibuki-han carries is very cute. What's inside?
*Inro = a small medicine case.
Ryu: This? Don't get your hopes up. I'm not using it now. So it's empty.
Ryu untied it from his belt and handed it to Kosuzu.
Ryu: It was for my mother's medicine. She died earlier this year, so I don't need to carry it anymore. But it became a habit, I guess.
Kosuzu: I'm sorry, Ibuki-han. I asked a question out of place.
Her face clouded from feeling sorry wholeheartedly.
Ryu: Don't let it bother you. Actually, we weren't in good terms. So it's not like I'm heartbroken or something.
Kosuzu nodded. But she still looked woeful. Comforting words didn't work, so Ryu decided to change the subject.
Ryu: About this inro. There's a little trick to it.
Kosuzu: Trick?
Ryu: Yep. There's a device hard to notice unless you examine really carefully. Its bottom is double-layered.
Ryu clicked open the bottom and revealed the small space in between.
Ryu: This is good for hiding something important, so no one else can find it.
Kosuzu: Wow. That's a delicate device.
Kosuzu's eyes gleamed with interest. She stared at the inro for a while, and then suddenly suggested.
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han, can you put sweets in it? The inro is so beautiful. It looks lonely being empty.
Ryu: Nah. I have no sweet tooth. And there's no need to find an use for an empty inro.
Kosuzu: But it's such a waste...
Kosuzu wouldn't be Kosuzu if she gives up so easily. She looked around in search of something to put inside.
Kosuzu: I get it. I will find something fitting for this inro. You can count on me.
Ryu: You get what? Hey, I really don't need sweets...
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han, I will bring something. Can we meet outside tomorrow?
Ryu: Huh?
Why is she so persistent on the inro? Ryu stared in amazement, and made Kosuzu felt uneasy.
Kosuzu: Is it alright? If it's too much trouble for you to meet a meiko outside...
Ryu: No... no! No trouble at all. And it's not like I don't want to meet you...
Ryu felt that Kosuzu had been leading the conversation all night. But oh well. It's not so bad.
Outside Sumiya, Harada was all smiles.
Sano: Isn't it great, Ryunosuke? Looks like you two had a great time together.
Ryu: Shaddup.
Kosuzu even whispered "Ibuki-han, see you tomorrow" before she left.
Sano: Why do you look so grim? Tomorrow is your big day. Just smile, 'kay?
Ryu: You... you heard it?
In surprise, Ryu raised his voice. That caught Serizawa's attention. Annoyed, Serizawa asked what he's yelling for.
Sano: Now, now. Don't blame him for getting a little too excited. After all, it's been a while since Serizawa-san brought him to Shimabara.
Sano changed the subject, and helped Serizawa as he started to walk out.
Ryu: Um...
Serizawa didn't yell or break anything after drunk tonight. It was thanks to Sano keeping Serizawa company that Ryu and Kosuzu can talk all night undisturbed. Ryu knew full well that Sano didn't really enjoy drinking with Serizawa. Although he usually would say Sano did things unasked for, he knew this time he owed Sano big time.
Ryu: ... Sorry.
Still can't say "thank you" out straight, Ryu whispered.
Sano, with one arm holding Serizawa, didn't look back and just gave Ryu a wave with his other hand.
Interlude #45 - Love With No Future
Personal comments:
1. A chapter full of big brother Sano and his kawaii love birds. :D
2. When reading that paragraph in Mibu Temple, I can't get the image of Duracell bunnies out of my head: one bunny still live and kickin', while other bunnies were flat on the floor. XD Shinpachi sure is fun in this chapter... and serious too (his comment about Serizawa).