I think that this story is the most realistic way to fill the little wholes in the original story, which had been left to the readers's imagination. Kenshin's proposal, the hair cut (although I prefer he doing it with Kaoru's consent), and why Kamiya dojo has more student had been explained wonderfully here. I know that Kenshin's 'affairs' with his former enemies could makes people pay their attention to Kamiya dojo, but winning a tournament could certainly help to restore its honor.

Do something what?! Oh...this was really so Kenshin, and only Kaoru can understand what he means! I remember when Kenshin hearing Kaoru's voices, telling him that Aoiya was safe, that he shouldnt be worry. I think they might develop an ability to send and read messages through their mind *grinn what a couple!

I know its been years since you last completed this story but I just want to drop a review. This story is one of the best! It is wonderfully written about Kaoru. It's what I've imagined her to be in Watsuki-sensei's manga. I thank you for imparting your writing talent to us, readers. This is the best Kaoru Kamiya centered story I've read.

Loved reading this! Kaoru is one of the strongest characters in Rurouni Kenshin and I wish that she had been given more fights/scenes like this.

It's been nearly 11 years since you've posted this great piece of work and it should have way more reviews then it does! I'm very impressed with your Kaoru's characterization and growth and the way it truly represents the spiri of the manga/anime.
Great job!

I love how you portray Kaoru's strength not just in her ability to fight but also in her determination to follow her path despite being a woman and her courage. I think that when it comes to the manga/anime, a lot of people think she's weak because Kenshin or someone else is always doing the fighting - but it's easy to forget that those opponents are Kenshin-level, strong beyond belief warriors. In any other scenario Kaoru would kick ass.

On another note, I like the connections between the present and Kaoru's past. It's a seamless way of showing character development. Well done!

Thank you for the wonderful story. It was a genius idea for Kaoru too win the tournament in order to restore her school's honor. It is the only way Kaoru can find true happiness and wash away her fears and self-doubts (of being left behind, being weak, being unladylike, being an unworthy partner of Kenshin). Given the manga series is all about swordmanship and character development, it is very good, smart and appropriate approach you made here. It's great! 3

Wow, it's a very beautiful story. It made me cry in the last chap. Twas a sweet victory for Kaoru.

Oh my God.

So fucking good.

So good.

SO. GOOD.

thank you for writing

Hitsuji also means sheep. D

I'm so sorry for reviewing backwards but this chapter was great. The way you shifted POVs and the past and present, it's thoroughly effective and hauntingly beautiful. )

This was incredibly written, and the characterisations were fantastic. I am in awe of your fic, it flows beautifully with the canon and your characters are completely IC. This fic brings so much more than your usual romance stuff, it's all about life. The epiphany of Kaoru during the match was well-written and gave that sense of satisfaction to the reader during the ending. And though there is lack of fluff, there is still that warm feelings you have instilled in the reader the way you have presented the deep relationship and understanding between Kaoru and Kenshin.

I really wish I could give a more detailed review, but perhaps being in awe just robs me of that. I think the most important thing you have presented here is the self-empowerment, showing us that you could only find this strength within yourself with a little help from your friends. Great job!

Excellent work. It's really neat to see a different portrayal of Kaoru's father from other fanfics. The balance of flashbacks to the present was also really great. Very nice!

That made me tear up in the end. Lol. That was truly.. a touching story! XD Omfg! Just keep it up!

Ari chan