Himura_battousai - Cover

Himura_battousai

Copyright© 2011 by Murasame

Chapter 78: Ten Sword Chou

Chou: That cross-shaped scar ... you must be the famous Hitokiri Battousai.

Iori: Gojaru!!

Chou: You're smaller than I thought. Like a girl. Oh well. You here for the sword too?

Kenshin: Unfortunately, I seek a different sword. If you're here for the last work of Shakkuu, go and take it. Only give back the child first.

Chou: You want to avoid an unnecessary fight? Could be. Or it could be that with your trusty reverse blade broken, you can't fight like you want to. Well, it wouldn't be much fun to beat someone who isn't up to full strength, but if I came across an enemy and didn't settle it with a fight, Lord Shishio would kill me. So!

(He tosses Iori and the sword's sheath straight up; Iori is caught in a tree.)

Chou: After all this trouble to get the sword, it'd only be half as much fun without something to test it on. I've always wanted to try killing a baby. So I reject your proposal. We'll have a fair and honorable fight.

Kenshin: Is it fair and honorable to fight with a hostage, knowing your opponent's sword is broken? You mock me.

Chou: I'm not mocking you in particular. Just--(springing forward)--your serious face!

(Kenshin blocks with his scabbard.)

Chou (stabbing with the other sword): Got you!

(Kenshin swiftly turns sideways; Chou misses completely.)

Kenshin: If you wish to stab me to death, show me a technique that surpasses Saitou's Gatotsu.

Hiten Mitsurugi Ryuukansen!(1)

(He strikes behind him, breaking the swords on Chou's back.)

Iori: Gojaru! Gojaru!!

(Kenshin turns towards Iori.)

Chou (standing up): Guess you're not quite as weak as you look. This'll be tough without my beloved blades on my back. But the price will be high.

(Both of his swords fall into halves; half of each clamps together to form one double-bladed sword.)

Chou: One of Shakkuu's early works, the Renbatou.(2) You'll get two equal wounds at the same time, and you won't be able to stitch them up. In other words, even if I miss a vital spot and don't kill you right away, you'll die of wounds you won't be able to treat. I'll give you your death!

(Chou strikes; Kenshin blocks by placing his sword in between the two blades.)

 
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