What makes history (Hijikata x OC)

Kyoto by night

Patrols with Harada were smooth. The man wasn't too chatty, and knew how to listen. His golden eyes returned to me every so often, checking on me to ensure both my safety, and that of his men. Once he was satisfied I wouldn't pull up a prank, or desert altogether, he allowed me a little leeway. The roof tiles of many of their building were pretty sturdy, and I started working as a scout from the top. Nothing relaxed me more than to dominate a scene.

Sneaky like a cat, all dressed in black with that Sarmatian bow slung over my back, I became a shadow. At the first sight of trouble, I could aim and shoot at anyone that tried to attack my patrol – yes, they were mine to protect now! – from the rear. My classical routine and the exertion of those nights were slowly getting me back in excellent shape, and I thrived in that new role. Now, I could witness the lanterns of the shops, the lights of the red district, and the pale glow of the moon reflecting in the river that crossed the city.

As days got warmer, more people found their way in the street. The sun still set early due to the latitude, but the icy winds had given way to moist and a soft breeze. Kyōto was a beautiful sight, even at night when the shops were closed. I drank every single bit of it. Surveilling the lone people who left inns late, watching for conversations that exposed them as extremists of the Chōshū clans. Once, I even thought I saw Saitō with a set of men of his own. He only spared me a glance, I ignored if he had spotted me.

That man was such a puzzle, I had little chance to see him again. Yet, something nagged me at the back of my mind, telling me not to give up. After all, the left-handed swordsman was one of the first man I'd stumbled upon. This usually meant something. For the moment, though, Saitō served Itō-sod, and we had no contacts whatsoever. My duty rested with Harada and the tenth unit.

The rare bad encounters were dealt with swiftly. The captain's spear was masterfully wielded albeit with mercy. I so scarcely unsheathed my sword for fear of killing people; my fists and dagger worked well enough on unassuming Ronins. But the rare katana wielders found someone to talk to. So far, we had taken most people in custody. Soon, the rumour spread that a Kitsune worked with the Shinsengumi, preventing bloodbaths. Had Sanan had a hand in spreading the rumour, or was it just the result of my numerous patrols? I had no idea ... but the whispers the men received in daily patrols turned less irked, and more respectful.

Good. I had found some kind of purpose.

This night, Hijikata singled us out. He wanted us to retrieve Kondō-san from an inn, even though we were not on patrol duty.

"Just the two of us, Fukuchō?" Harada asked, visibly surprised.

Hijikata nodded. "Yes, it will seem less obvious. Who would think twice of a man and a woman wandering the streets?"

My mouth formed an 'O' as I realised what he wanted. Sure, Harada was attractive, and well-behaved, and one hell of a good warrior. But I didn't feel at ease with this kind of deception. The commander's eyes fell upon me, and I swallowed my protest; I had sworn to obey. Obey I would.

"They are cautious now," he added. "They wouldn't attack with a contingent. And Yamazaki is already watching over him. You both know how little Kondō-san cares for protection."

I rolled my eyes; yes, the Captain was horrible this way. He never cared to take men whenever he went for a drink, and it worried both the Vice Commander and I. The Shinsengumi's fame attracted enemies.

"Has Yamazaki reported an issue?", I asked.

Hijikata's eyes got lost in the horizon, the setting sun painting shadows on his flawless face.

"No. It's just a hunch."

Harada didn't protest; neither did I. A warrior's hunch should always be heeded. We both bowed, and left to prepare. As Chizuru helped me into a dark restrictive kimono that came out of nowhere, I mused about our orders. Hijikata knew to whom he confided this mission tonight. Kondō's kindness called for unwavering loyalty; I would protect him with my life. And thus, we took off this very evening with an easy goal in mind, and a different set of clothes.