Kenshin takes Tomoe (who has collapsed) back to the place he is staying where she eventually takes a job. Most men desire her, but Kenshin is unemotional and aloof.

Meanwhile, the political unrest worsens. Patriots of the Choshu Clan are continually slaughtered by the Shinsen Gumi. To make matters even more difficult, there is a traitor among them....resulting in assassins targeting Kenshin. A concerned Lord Katsura asks Tomoe if she would be Kenshin's sheath. A sheath shields one from thy inner self. She agrees.

A major confrontation is scheduled for the evening of the Gion Festival. Kenshin is told to have Tomoe leave town, but he coldly insists he has no ties to her.

That evening she asks him to escort her to the festival, and he reluctantly agrees. While the two quietly drink sake a devastating ambush is taking place. Many of the Choshu Clan face annihilation. Afterwards, as the two walk the streets of Tokyo, Kenshin comes face to face with Saitou, Okita, and many members of the Shinsen Gumi. Kenshin cannot be defeated by them, and Saitou finally sees for himself the great power this boy holds.

Later that evening Lord Katsura catches up with Kenshin and tells him to leave Tokyo immediately. He and Tomoe are instructed to go to a safe house at Otsu and live undercover as husband and wife. After things quiet down, they will be contacted.

NOTE: Kenshin has no idea what connection he has to Tomoe......yet!!

End of Act 2