Disclaimer: I don't own Rurouni Kenshin or Samurai X plot or
characters.  A/N: This story takes place after Tomoe's death,
but before the Battle of Toba Fushimi where Kenshin lay down his
sword and became a wanderer.  This is for Lilmatchgirl who
inspired me to try again – even though my writer's block is
driving me crazy. Thanks to everyone else who gave suggestions
and commiseration in emails and reviews. Pointless one-shot
number two, here we go!  "In The Shadows"  Beyond the Gion
district lay the stews, the worst part of Kyoto. It was utterly
lawless, dominated only by the strongest of the criminals who
lived there. The buildings lay close together, throwing the
narrow streets into shadow, deepened in the dark of twilight.
Soon it would be completely dark.  It wasn't fear, but wariness
that made the skin between Kenshin's shoulder blades twitch. His
job tonight was simple: Escort Katsura's informant back to the
stews, then leave.  The informant, a small sharp-faced man who
reminded Kenshin of a rat, seeme