Chapter 81: Shakkuu's Thoughts

Misao: Himura!

(Kenshin strikes Chou in the side; he goes down.)

Okina (thinking): He's done it...

(A long pause. Kenshin stares down at his work.)

Misao (taking a step forward): Himura...

Kenshin (bowing his head): I...

Misao: What?

Seikuu: That sword...

Misao: It's a reverse blade!

Okina: Shakkuu's last work was a reverse blade like the one he gave Himura!

Kenshin: No, this... feels better to the hand than the old reverse blade...

Misao: But if it's a reverse blade, then...

(Chou groans.)

Misao: He's still alive, Himura! You didn't break your vow!

Chou: Now I see why Lord Shishio wants to fight you while he's trying to take over the country. But don't feel too good about your win. There are still nine of the Ten Swords left. Two of them are definitely better than you. Soujirou, who you crossed swords with before, and Usui who's come to Kyoto from Ryuukyuu. You'll never get to Lord Shishio! Remember how weak you really are and sit back and watch his coup!

Misao: Gramps?

Okina (handing her the nunchuks): Here.

Misao (whacking him): Punishment!

(Chou is knocked unconscious.)

Misao: What are we going to do with him?

Okina: We can get a lot of information out of him; let's take him back to the Aoiya.

Kenshin: No, let's turn him over to the police. I don't know if he's arrived or not, but there's a man here who has complete responsibility for the Shishio affair. It'll be safer that way.