givemesnekboiasap

[givemesnekboiasap]

Memories of the Heart

This fiction is a response and a dedication to the one done by @notsafefortum-blr and its a first for me to complete a fiction within 5 hours after I woke up and read this story. I hoped this will ease the heartache.

p.s. I choose the cure for the disease without any prior information or idea of how it works. Just take it with a pinch of salt.

It's been weeks since that day when their princess utter that fated words to the right-hand man of the devil king...

... Do I know you?...

His heart has not stopped wreaking havoc every time he recalls this. His guts will tighten and he clenches his fist over his chest, pressing it hard. Hoping, praying, if he does it often enough, the pain will past.

It usually does... But it took longer each time, and it's starting to affect his work. The kitsune is now handling half of his workload, with the resident bookworm assisting him. Thankfully, there hasn't been any suspicious activities brewing of late, so he delegates his work to one of his trusted vassals.

Mitsuhide is currently having a tea session with the princess. He watches her from under his eyelids as he prepares the tea in a traditional manner. Her sudden request and attention towards how he goes about doing it brought a mental smile in him.

"Princess... " She blinks as he calls out softly, passing the cup to her. She nods her thanks and turns the cup a few times before picking it up for a sip. A faint smile graced her lips as she savors the taste of the foamy tea.

"Is the tea not to your taste, Mouse?"

"Hmm? No, it's wonderfully prepared, Mitsuhide-san."

"... Then why do I see a crease between here?" He reaches out with his fingers to smooth the ridge that forms on her brows. She freezes in her tracks, as an onslaught of memories starts flooding her mind again. Each episode of these flashbacks, her heart will fill with nostalgic and longing.

Try as she might, the features of the man whose touches, words, and gestures are never clear. She did bring it up to the blond physician once and there was a glimpse of hope in his eyes before he blinks it away, telling her not to force it.

... Let nature takes its course. All will be revealed in due time if it's meant to be...

Those words ignited a tiny flame of hope in her quiet but empty heart. The first fluttering of interest towards something other than the usual routine.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Her suppressed memories are making its appearance of late. I'm worried that there will be a relapse if all of it comes back before those two could come to a conclusion."

"Your concerns are valid and that's why we're having this council here in the tenshu. Mitsuhide, how is her situation?"

"She seems to remember something from their shared past. Earlier this afternoon, she requested to have a tea ceremony with me. I imitated Hideyoshi's actions and mannerisms, including the way he soothes her. She's definitely on her way to recovering all of her lost memories. But that's not the only reason for this meeting today. Mitsunari, if you please."

"Yes. According to the aides and the maids in Hideyoshi-sama's manor, there have been petals found in his study and sleeping quarters. Not a lot, a few pieces here and there."

"That's one of the early stages, and there's more to come if we don't stop it at its tracks."

Nobunaga took his iron fan out from his sleeve and opens it as he contemplated over the findings. As soon as Ieyasu has announced to him that her memory was coming back, he had orchestrated in a way to ensure that the two of them were always within each other proximity as they carried out their daily routine.

Hideyoshi has treated her exactly like how he did in the past, and each time they parted ways, she'll wear a frown on her face as her attention remains on his retreating back. However, he didn't foresee the monkey contracting the same illness.

Snapping his fan shut, the lord of Azuchi looks at the gathering of men before him. "Two weeks from now, we'll implement the next stage of our campaign."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Everyone in the castle has been bustling non-stop in the preparation of Tanabata, something she had unintentionally started previously. She oversees the placement of the huge vases for the bamboos and makes sure there is a sufficient amount of paper and ink for people to write down their wishes.

Yesterday, she cornered the silvery-haired trickster and demanded that she'll be told about her past and why she could remember everyone but Hideyoshi that day after she recovered from her illness. Mitsuhide just gave her a gentle smile that reaches his eyes and he pads her head, the gesture eerily similar to Hideyoshi that she flinches.

Eyes widening, Mitsuhide finally replied, "Look into your own heart. The answers you seek are all in there."

As she pouted at him, he continued, "My only request is this. No matter what happens, don't ever let him go. He needs you and you need him..." With that, he walks away.

The star festival has come upon the residents of Azuchi and everyone are in their best yutaka. Hideyoshi tries to make excuses to avoid the gathering he knew will be held in the audience chamber, but Nobunaga put his foot down and orders his presence.

He knew what illness he's been suffering and he finds it as an ironic twist of fate that he's going through the same thing as she did. He tries to hide it from everyone, including Mitsunari as he plans out for the inevitable.

That morning, after she woke up, Hideyoshi was stumped as she looked at him like a complete stranger. Only then he realized how deep was his feelings towards her, when her eyes no longer reflect her affection towards him. Days passed, and slowly, she remembered the rest of the warlords. First being Nobunaga, his lord, followed by Ieyasu. Mitsunari, Masamune and finally Mitsuhide, all within a span of a week. She took a long time to recall her interactions with him and it hurts.

"A suitable punishment for me. Even if I know the remedy, I'll never force it onto her. I'll rather suffer in silence than to live in a hollow existence. If it's my time, then I hoped to meet her again in another lifetime and I vow I'll cherish every moment of it."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Cheers echoes within the audience chamber as sake and platters of food flows endlessly. Only five pairs of eyes are looking at the couple whose attention is on each other but their eyes keep averting each time they crossed paths. It is frustrating to witness this yet they hoped that they will soon realize their feelings keep them on the edge of their seats.

Ieyasu still reflects on the words she has spoken to him when she asked about Hideyoshi's absence.

... The heart hopes...

He's now praying hard that this round, it will not end in tragedy.

Nobunaga watches as the time for everyone to bring their written wishes and hang it among the leaves. His cardinal eyes follow her movements as she approaches his trusted advisor. She hands over her paper to him, and he looks at the content of her wish as she gestures him to turn it. He could tell from the body language on the monkey that he is in shock. The lips of the devil king curves in a smile as he sees Hideyoshi lifts her up and gives her a kiss that nearly makes him feel envious.

"They have given their blessings to the two of you. Don't let me down again, darn saru..."

~~ Owari ~~

[givemesnekboiasap]

Reblog for awareness

Dammit tumblr

A couple of recent reblogs from followers for the stripping Kenny commission @kakihoden did for me recently had its text removed in its entirety which included copyright and reposting requests y'all see me usual lol usually write. I’m hoping/going with Tumblr being its usual asshat that it removed it because of a glitch and it wasn’t removed intentionally. In light of this I’m just making this post to ask always please check your reblogs. especially for art. It’s very important to artists and commissioners alike that text remain especially with respect to reposted works/copyright.

I’ve reached out privately to the reblogs in question and sent screen shots showing what it currently looks like on my end to the affected reblogs. Hopefully they’ll fix it as I requested and continue to enjoy all my content here and senpai’s hardwork just like I hope all y'all do! 😊 💙

[givemesnekboiasap]

A dawn encounter

This is just a one-shot description, inspired by a drawing. Edit: I managed to link up the drawing that inspired the short fic below. Not gonna say which one but if you managed to find it, kudos to you.

Refer to the link here

The sharp brightness that only the morning sun could bring pierces through, temporary blinding me as I become more aware of my surroundings. A grand looking monument towers over the horizon, its dark tiled roofing contrast well with the white walls and glittering gold trimmings.

When I used my hand to shield against the glare, I notice there's a lone figure before me, gazing at the castle. His stance composed and confident, as the wind slowly blows the edges of his white haori, making it flutter.

As I raise my voice to call out his name, it didn't occur to me that he was someone unfamiliar with, despite my first encounter of him. He tilts his head slightly as he shifts his body to his left, moving his garnet red eyes until they set their sights on me, opening his lips to grace a smile so sweet that makes my heart stutters......

That's when I woke up and realized that it was just a dream, his name dispense with the foggy tendrils that only sleepiness brings......

[givemesnekboiasap]

The Meeting

Sorry for the long absence, I have hit a brick wall after polishing up the last bits of the prologue and have been idling since. So just a shout out to the anyone reading, which warlords / ninja / monk should Mai end up with? And if you like who should my OC, Aoi choose in the end? 

If there are not replies, I’ll post whatever I have come up with. Now, without further delay, here’s part 3 of Sunflower. All copyrights belongs to Cybird and Marvel. Aoi Tsukimaru is mine

Oda territory, Azuchi Castle

(Copyright to Cybird) “We’re here, Mai, Aoi. Azuchi Castle, home to the Oda forces.”

Mai gasps in reaction as Aoi looks up at the magnificent fortress, castle and city roll into one mega metropolis, her eyes widening in reaction to witness the structure intact, not ravaged since the lord of Azuchi is still alive.

“...oh wow, it’s gorgeous…”

Hideyoshi chuckles at Aoi’s soft words, causing her to clam up again and stares in front. He sighs before turning his attention to Mai and vents his frustration on her. Aoi mentally winches as she listens to the man behind her rebuking Masamune’s riding companion. Mai starts to struggle a little as the four of them rides through the town, Aoi half listens to the men bickering over who Mai belongs to as she watches the townspeople begin to stream out. They start to throw greetings at them as the horses trods on, their little party make its way closer to the castle.

Both Aoi and Mai notices that majority of the crowd are females, mostly trying to get Hideyoshi’s attentions. Masamune mocks his fellow warlord about his enthusiastic welcome party, asking him to break some hearts. The man himself, rolls his eyes at the wild child and alights from his gelding, leaving Aoi on top before leading it towards his well-wishers, patiently responding to each and everyone. Aoi turns her head to see Masamune and Mai talking about something, before he starts to shift closer to her, causing Mai to stiffen up.

Everyone turns after they hear a voice calling out a greeting, and Aoi is again strike by how handsome this guy, dressed in pale lavender, is. There’s also another one, dressed in different shades of yellow. A scarf wrapping around his neck, made his emerald eyes striking even from a distance, approaches the gate slowly and reluctantly from behind. His grumpy expression reminds her so much of Kenshin-niisama that she nearly laughs aloud. Swallowing her mirth, she waits for Hideyoshi to help her down as Masamune manages his horse closer to the gate, with Mai’s attention is being captured by the petite young man with tousled fawn hair

(Copyright to Cybird) “Even Ieyasu came out to say hi. That’s rare.”

Aoi schools her excitement the minute she places a face to the name of the warlord she has been gathering information on for the past four years. Ieyasu Tokugawa, the founder of Edo period and Sasuke’s idol, so to speak. He’ll be delirious with joy and jealous to boot to know she is meeting his idol before him. Soon they arrive at the gate and with the crowd slowly fading away, Aoi slowly stretches her body as she tries to maintain her balance. Her legs are numb from keeping in one position. Masamune lifts Mai off the horse and takes her hand to lead her to meet up with the waiting warlords. Aoi can see he is trying to win the young female’s favour, and sighs softly.

“...Looks like you are having problem over here, need some help?”

Aoi nearly fell off from her perch the second she hears his deep sultry voice behind her. Slowly, not believing her ears, she turns to meet up with a pair of yellow eyes, equally shocked expression of someone she knew.

“…...Jubei…..of course, you are Mitsuhide Akechi…….no wonder Hideyoshi-san said my smirk reminds him of someone...”

The man grimace, his usual calm features no longer present as he looks at her from below. Before she could questioned him further, Mitsuhide slides his arms around her waist and lifts her down. Partially hiding behind the horse’s bulky mass, they could hear the rest of the warlords having fun at the shorter male while Mai looks on in bewilderment beside the smiling Mitsunari. Aoi rests her forehead on his chest, listening to his slow breathing and rapid heartbeat.

“...So…”

Both of them speaks up and clams up again. Mitsuhide sighs as he tilts his head up to look at the vermillion sky. Aoi chuckles under her breath, as she too, looks up into the same sky as he did. His light amber eyes gaze down into her slate grey ones as he regains his composure.

“What a mess this turns out to be…...you do know why I’m here right?”

“You’re here for two reasons, one is the female that’s at the front gate, Mai Mizusaki. She’s from the future like you, if your presence means anything. The second reason is…”

“Lord Tokugawa, and the library within Azuchi Castle. Before I give up any hope, I need to make sure that there really is no other options first.”

“…...Ahh, then I would suggest you seek Mitsunari Ishida’s help. He’s like our living library, anything he read, he remembers. As for Ieyasu, you will need to seek my lord’s permission to be tutored under him. Any orders from Nobunaga-sama, no matter how distasteful, he will follow through.”

“Obedient, huh?”

Mitsuhide gives a soft snort, shaking his head. Slowly and reluctantly, he lets her go. Both of them understand that they must not reveal their knowledge of each other’s existence. She watches as he walks away without looking back, heading in the opposite direction. Aoi holds the reins of the horse and leads it towards the group before a vassal appears to take the warlords’ steeds to the stable. Mai looks relieved to see her and quickly slides herself next to Aoi’s side, with Mitsunari still standing nearby.

“Oh, hello. I don’t believe we have met…”

Aoi bows to him and explains her situation without diverting much information, causing the brows on his angelic face to scrounge up slightly, looking like a lost child. After a moment, he beams her a benevolent smile, which is almost as lethal as Shingen’s come-on smile that he uses on the females around him, and calls for the rest of the guys into the castle, citing that he needs to house the females in their respective rooms.

Once inside, Aoi is shown her room first but she choose to follow Mai to her room, which is a lot larger than hers. Mitsunari points out that this is Lord Nobunaga’s decision to have Mai-sama placed here. As Aoi is an unexpected addition, the maids manage to clear one of the smaller spare rooms nearer the outskirts of the inner courtyard until he can inform his lord. Aoi listens to them trading pleasantries as she steps into the room fit for a princess. Keeping her senses alert, she soon notices another presence above them.

Mai slides the door shut before shuffling to the middle of the room, sinking down onto the tatami mats. She reaches out to grab her bag and dumps everything out. As Mai is sorting through her items, Aoi kneels down adjacent to her, and picks up her cloth bag. Mai gives a long sigh, causing Aoi to snicker at her. The young female grins back and notices a cloth bag on her companion’s lap. Before she could comment, a ‘tock’ sound could be hear overhead.

“Don’t look now, but I think we’re about to be visited by our resident Spiderman.” (Copyright of Marvel)

“Hey, are you from the……”

Both ladies look up as one of the ceiling panel slides away, revealing a familiar bespectacled face.

“Excuse me, Mai-san. Hello there, Aoi-chan. I’m not bothering the both of you, am I?”

Aoi smiles back as Mai exclaims in relief. Sasuke jumps down from the ceiling, landing silently. Mai looks in awe at her friend while he pulls his mask down. Aoi settles into a more comfortable position, keeping her eyes and ears open as Sasuke explains about the rest of the important information with Mai. A few times in the conversation, Mai nearly shout her joy as the ninja hushes at her, and reassuring her that they can make their way back to their original time. The only concern is the waiting period, which is three months from now. Aoi has been helping her nerdy ninja recording all the sightings of the wormholes that has occur since his arrival. It has gone from erratic to being consistent, appearing every three months, starting last autumn. They will not know what will happen if they missed this opportunity as there is no telling if the wormhole will maintain its current cycle or completely cease, trapping everyone here for good.

As Sasuke suggests that the both of them continues to reside here in Azuchi, Mai voices out her concern. Sasuke looks at his unexpected fellow time-traveler, explains his reasons to her as he ignores the actual motivation of his explanation.

(Copyright of Cybird) “We’re in the midst of a chaotic civil war, one that’s now further away from ending than one in our timeline. Besides, Nobunaga and his men seem rather fond of you. I doubt they’d let you go easily.”

“Yeah, given their penchant for hunting me like a game animal.”

Mai makes a face after that description, causing Aoi to snort and miffed her laughter. Sasuke clears his throat and continues to remind her that he’s a smoke signal away and cautions against having any intimate moments with the Azuchi warlords.

(Copyright of Cybird) “Haha, love? There’s no worry of that happening. Have you talked to any of these people?”

“Actually, I did. At least for the first four men I’ve seen, excluding their lord. They are quite okay, for Sengoku standards, of course.”

Mai gives the older female a look of disbelief, as Sasuke pushes on to finish his conversation.

(Copyright of Cybird)”...All right. I recommend you keep the fact that you come from the present a secret too.”

“Yes, right. Not that anyone believes, I mean, would believe it.”

Aoi and Sasuke narrow their eyes as they watch her mutters that sentence, almost as if to assure herself something. Aoi will ask her later regard the meaning behind it. As Sasuke  brought up about his presence here is due to his employer, Aoi waves her hand, motioning them to stop their conversation just as Sasuke senses something, his gaze shot at the door. Mai freezes as Sasuke pulls up his mask, mumbling that he’ll catch up with them later before he leaps up to the hole in the ceiling and closes the panel. The door slides open, revealing Mitsuhide and a gathering of maids behind him. The ladies quickly enters the room, with food and clothes for them.  

(Copyright of Cybird) “I see you weren’t able to get away from Nobunaga after all.”

He mocks Mai, causing the girl to pout in response as he turns his gaze to Aoi, and narrows his eyes, before giving her an inquiring look. Aoi finally understands how this man gain his reputation as the kitsune of the Oda army, nothing escapes his attention, and he knows how to mask his reactions too well.

“Ohh, and who do we have here, hn? Another stray picked up by Hideyoshi?”

Mai took offence and tries to block Aoi from his view. The older female is touched by her gesture, giving her a reassuring pat on Mai’s back.

“It’s fine, let the maids prepare the kimono for you. I think there is a reason why this gentleman would come to visit two harmless females within his lord’s perusal.”

Mitsuhide gave no indication that the barb thrown by Aoi hits anything, but the slight glint in his citrine eyes show otherwise. Aoi allows her eyes to cringe a little in satisfaction, as he states the reason of his presence.

(Copyright of Cybird) “He’s calling for you. Nobunaga, that is. He wants to see you.”

Mai opens her mouth to protest again but closes it back. The silver fox seems to know the young woman understood she has no choice in the matter and dismiss her from his attention. He looks at the other female and tells her to get change too; apparently Mitsunari has alerted the Oda clan head of her and he demands her audience as well. Turning his back, Mitsuhide leaves the room to wait for them outside. The maids chat with them, gossiping about each warlords as they help both ladies change into richly textured kimonos and have their hair all styled up. Aoi is slightly stunned to see herself in a princess attire, similar to Mai, despite not mentioning anything. Mitsunari is more than it meets the eye, it seems, Aoi mused. Her posture must have leaked through in spite of her efforts to hide them. It is not easy to undo nearly a decade of conditioning, living as the Uesugi princess at Kasugayama Castle.

Once they are done with the finishing touches on the ladies, the shoji screen slides open again, revealing their escort. As one, Mai and Aoi leaves, with the former leading behind the two to the audience chamber. Along the way, Aoi notices the young woman in front of her is dragging her feet, their pace slow down to the point even Mitsuhide had to stop. Chancing a glance at Aoi, Mitsuhide approaches his lord’s person of interest, his eyes take note of her anxious expression and her tightly squeezed hands.

(Copyright of Cybird) “You’ll damage them if you keep squeezing so tightly.”

He lifts one of her hands as Mai gives him a confused look after the comment and blinks in realization. What he did next cause the young female to freak out in response as she leaps away from him, nearly bowling Aoi over. As for Uesugi princess, she just rolls her eyes when she witness the sly manipulator calming her down by giving her something else to worry over. As Mai rebukes back at him, Mitsuhide just smiles and apologies prettily to her. This time, not even Aoi can keep her exasperated sighs from escaping her breaths, her lips curving into a tiny smirk.

“…I finally understood why Hideyoshi-san finds him a constant source of headache…”

...To Be Continued...

[givemesnekboiasap]

Destiny Entwined

So, this chapter is much longer than the previous one, Sunflower. There are bits and pieces of wordings that I compiled from the Ikesen Prologue, so copyright have been added. Hopefully this doesn’t deter the reading by much.

Thank you to those who have been reading my writing. Hope you’ll enjoy this!

Aftermath of the wormhole, forested area near the cliff

Aoi stays behind with her foster brothers of nine years as Sasuke disappears into the surroundings to scout the area. They heard that a fire has broke out at the temple, with their nemesis inside. Present company held their breaths as they waited impatiently for Sasuke to sneak up to the Oda encampment for information.

“Hmm, I think I heard something rustling just around the corner…”

Aoi turns her head towards the sound; hurried footsteps trampling through the undergrowth, rustling of clothes instead of the clacking noise of armour. Could be a civilian but in the middle of the night, deep in the forest? One and one is making four instead of two.

“...Yuki…” The young man need no further instructions; he leaps off his horse and runs after the source. The remaining three hear scuffling and a shout from Yukimura. Shingen tightens his steed and the onyx surges forward. Kenshin narrows his eyes as the muffled sounds becomes clearer, with Yukimura arguing with a female.

“...He must have spotted the female from his perch on his stallion, that no good flirt....”

Aoi swallows a chuckle from bubbling out; her other foster brother is infamous in his dismay on female in general, present company excluded of course. Both of them get off their horses and tied the ropes on a nearby branch of a tree. After Shingen tries his hand in putting the female at ease, Kenshin snaps at his frenemy before turning his gaze at the female in question. Everyone’s looking at her with suspicion except for Aoi but the young female is too terrified to even notice her. It was then she felt Sasuke moving out from the shadows to join them.

(Copyrights to Cybird) “My lords, I’ve returned. Nobunaga’s forces have extinguished the fires at Honno-ji.”

Kenshin nods in reply, his mismatching eyes never leaving the female as he continues his questioning.

(Copyrights to Cybird) “Thank you for your investigation, Sasuke. So, I presume Nobunaga is alive, then?”

“Yes.”

Everyone immediately grimace, so much so that even the female bystander could see it on their faces. It is then Sasuke turns to look at her and his slight hesitation is enough to let Aoi know she’s the one the two of them are looking for. Maybe it is unusual for the ninja to have any reaction, but his single word captures his lord’s attention and Aoi nearly facepalms. Luckily, Sasuke manages to worm his way out by making up some excuses and Shingen teases him on being a fast player. Aoi ignores the remaining banter and walks back to gather her stuff from the saddlebag. She cannot bring her weapon along; it’ll be too obvious and she needs to keep as many cards up her sleeves as possible to survive. One of the Mitsumono has reported back to her that the One-eyed Dragon and the Right-hand of the Devil are on horsebacks, heading this way. Quickly, she slips between the bushes, away from the her brothers before they notice her absence.

She manages to cut in just as Sasuke finishes his explanation and both of them nearly jump out of their skins when she appears behind Sasuke’s back.

“W-who are you?”

“Hello, there. We’ve been looking for you, well, more like this guy here, has been searching for you. I’m Aoi Tsukimaru, the main reason why this astrophysicist-in-the-making decides to research wormholes, but there’s no time for additional explanation. We are about to expect some company, and I suggest that either you stay here with me or disappear with Sasuke-kun. Tick-tock, my girl…...time’s up.”

As she was able to grab hold of Sasuke’s hand, one voice echoes out in the forest, causing the young woman to hesitate. Aoi quickly motions Sasuke to hide and he melts into the shadows. The female immediately starts to panic when she realises her only link to her timeline has vanished before her very eyes. Aoi places her hand on her shoulder to calm her down a little, and slips her stuff into the woman’s large shoulder bag. Just in the nick of time, as the undergrowth part ways, revealing two men on horsebacks. Aoi blinks as this is the first time she gets to meet up with the enemies up close. Her brothers never told her they are drop-dead gorgeous.

While Aoi rubs her head as she ponders over her situation, the female time-traveler starts to bicker with one of the guys wearing green kimono under his armour. The other one turns to look at her with curious eye and she turns her head away, pretending to be shy. He lost interest in Aoi and started laughing when he overheard the young female criticizes Nobunaga’s behaviour. That’s when the eyepatch guy pick her up like a rice sack and dumps her in front of him. The warlord wearing green, Aoi guess, should be Hideyoshi Toyotomi, while the guy with the eyepatch is a dead giveaway, should be Masamune Date, notices her and starts to interrogate her presence in the forest. Aoi guilely spins out a story of her being lost after she wanders off to ease herself. He bought her story and offers his hand up his saddle.

Aoi takes his hand and he lifts her up and over, causing her to nearly losing her composure as he helps her adjust her seating. Aoi mentally pats herself in the back to having change back into a kimono instead of her usual hakuma outfit, or there will be hell to pay.

(Copyrights to Cybird) “Masamune Date. Remember it, Mai.”

Then he turns his attention to Aoi asking for her name. Hideyoshi looks at his companion with exasperation, feeling the trickle of time slowly slipping by.

“Ahh, my name is Aoi. Aoi Tsukimaru. Pleased to meet you, Lord Date.”

Aoi blinks while Mai sulky listens to Hideyoshi as he launches a round of explanation while Masamune chuckles at Aoi’s polite introduction.

“I like you, lass. You’re another interesting one. Two females with opposing behaviours found by us, seems like the gods decides to spice things up a little.”

(Copyrights to Cybird) “Thank you both for the introduction. Could I be put down now?”

“Settle down. You’ll spooked the horse.”

“Don’t I matter? I’m pretty spooked.”

“Come to think of it, you do look a little spooked.”

The grin on Masamune’s face as he readied his horse as all the indication that the fearless warlord of Oshu is planning to hightail out of here as after Mai finishes her complaints. True enough, with a snap of the reins, Masamune, together with Mai, shoots off into the distance, leaving Hideyoshi with Aoi.

“I’m sorry, but we’re in a hurry to meet up with the rest of our troops. Once everything is settled, I’ll seek audience from my lord about getting you back to your residence.”

“Thank you, Lord Toyotomi, but I think it’s better if we adjourn that request until we meet up with your lord. Better catch up with Lord Date, he’s got a headstart in front of you.”

Hideyoshi quickly flicks his reins, and they gallop after the One-eyed Dragon. Soon, they managed to catch up with him. Hideyoshi sees Mai clinging on to the man for dear life and shouts at him

(Copyrights to Cybird) “Don’t lose her.”

“I won’t. Hold on tight, Mai.”

“I’m not going with you guys!”

“Nobunaga-sama has already departed camp. He ordered you brought to him.”

Hideyoshi comments, his voice gruff with underlying frustration as Masamune nods in agreement.

(Copyrights to Cybird) “We need to ride fast if we’re gonna catch up. Don’t fall off, now.”

“No, wait! Where are you taking me?”

Aoi watches as Masamune takes the lead, galloping at an increasing speed. Hideyoshi smoothly adjusts himself to match the brutal pace. She chuckles softly at Mai’s loud protest, despite the fear of falling off the horse, and marvels at her bravery. Comparing to herself when she first arrived, that ball of steel took a long time to disperse even after under the care of Shingen and Kenshin. Some would say its normal for a teenage girl who lost most of her memories to live in fear after being thrown into the past, as her instincts scream this is not Kansas anymore.

Hideyoshi hears the female in his arms laughing over something and asks her about it. Aoi turns her head and shook it, a tiny smirk grace her face. He blinks in surprise and blurts out the first thing that comes to his mind.

“Could you not do that? It reminds me of someone that is a constant headache to me.”

“Ohh, pray tell who could that be, hn?”

Hideyoshi couldn’t help but physically shudders in reaction at Aoi’s reply. It sounds way too much like a certain silver haired fox lurking among them. Aoi blushes when she realises she has fallen back to her snarky remarks, the statement he posted to her was way too similar to how Yukimura would have phased and she automatically answers back.

“My apologise, Lord Toyotomi…”

“...Please, call me Hideyoshi…”

“...Alright, Hideyoshi-san. You reminded me of one of my brothers when you ask me not to smirk so...please accept my sincere apology.”

“I will accept your apology on one condition, and that is not to use ‘Sorry’ for every imaginable mistakes you may commit and just say ‘Thank you’ for any help you’ll receive.”

Aoi turns away from him, her demeanor changed after that, more reserved than ever as she whispers something under her breath

“...wish I could hold on to that promise after everything is revealed……”

Both parties falls into silence as the pounding of the two horses crossing the plains thunders on, with Hideyoshi’s gut heavy with doubt as he wonders that cryptic words from the female in his arms.

to be continued...

[givemesnekboiasap]

My POV: Sunflower

Hiya to those who have decided to follow this side blog dedicated for fanfic. Thank you for your support! Now this piece of fiction is completely based off my musings one day after playing too many Ikemen Sengoku routes, both main and events. 

And it got me thinking.....If Nobunaga was saved by MC (currently renamed as Mai Mizusaki in the manga; do check it out) and Kenshin’s life was prolonged due to Sasuke crashing in, who on earth saved the Tiger of Kai?

This is my story and my OC involvement in the whole thing....

At Kasugayama courtyard

“Are you sure you want to come along, Aoi-chan?”

“Yes, Sasuke-kun. And don’t you worry about me. I’ve been surviving the Sengoku period a lot longer than you had.”

“......Don’t remind me… it took me close to a decade to narrow down and find out which timeline the wormhole sent you.”

“...I’m sorry, Sasuke-kun. But you are still pretty excited to end up in your favourite part of Japanese history.”

The young ninja pushes his glasses, giving a little cough as he tries to hide his excitement. Aoi Tsukimaru, his childhood friend and adopted sister gives him a smirking look before setting into what he calls ‘the strategist mode’.

“I’m just happy that the three gentlemen didn’t thought of stopping me, especially Kenshin-niisama. His treatment of my role as the Uesugi Princess way too seriously despite the name only status. But just in case my plan succeed, I’ve already left instructions on the daily routines of the castle to the maids and vassals in charge...”

Sasuke still didn’t like the idea she had in mind but he choose to shove it to the back of his head and continue to banter with her.

“I wouldn’t know that, given your tendency to boss everyone in the castle. That has not changed much the last time we spent time together….oh, look. Here comes Yukimura with our rides.” 

Aoi looks over her shoulder as she spots the three men she has mentioned. Yukimura Sanada, a vassal of Shingen Takeda is on top of his steed, his crimson attire reflecting the setting sun, casting a reddish aura around the young man. The other older guys, each riding their stallions of onyx and white.

“Aoi-chan, my sweet little sister. Are you sure there’s no other way to convince you to stay back in Kasugayama Castle?”

"Nope."

She looks at the former lord of Kai, before looking at the Dragon of Echigo, Kenshin Uesugi, the supposing current lord of the Uesugi Clan. Both men’s existences, according to history books, are supposed to have ceased. But intervention in the form of Aoi and Sasuke, has prolonged their lifespans and everyone present knows that the two warlords are living on borrowed time. This time, they have received news of their enemy, Nobunaga Oda, currently residing in Honno-ji. If Aoi’s hypothesis and Sasuke’s calculation are correct, there will be a wormhole later tonight and it will bring the final player into this alternate history.

to be continued...

[givemesnekboiasap]

I Could Be...

@cherryb0mb79 sorry for the long delay, here is the long awaited retributory doujinshi of Mitsuhide. I hoped it will live up to your expectations, kinda long about 5 pages worth, I cannot do short, LOL

For those not familiar, here’s the link to the story written by @ikesenhell ​ https://ikesenhell.tumblr.com/post/173529184156/can-we-pretend-that-were-in-love/embed . Please read this before scrolling down.

I wrote this because I cannot stand watching him in agony, >,< T.T

p.s. I refer to this song for inspiration: https://youtu.be/CXchR2BGwcA ( Shane Filan ft. Nadine Coyle - I Could Be )

Mitsuhide stands in the cold long after he finishes his last stick of cigarette, and he’s running out of excuses to stay outside in the darkness. Sooner rather than later, someone is going to remember his forgotten presence and he hoped it to be anyone but Her...except maybe Hideyoshi too. There is only so much a man can take before something drastic happens. He watches the door next to him akin to a ticking time bomb, which is something out of character.

...She’s only one who could reduce me to this frame of mind...if Masamune gets the wind of this, I’m never going to live this down...

The click of the lock from the said door interrupted his thoughts, his eyes cannot helped but be drawn towards it. A lone female, with long hair in neon green, all braided up into a coronet, stepping out into the parking lot. He blinks, the first thought is, that hair has an obtrusive effect on the senses. When he starts to pay close attention to her appearance, it looks to him that she’s all deck in every shades of green he could identify and more, some of the shades he questions its existence.

She looked like a female version of Hideyoshi...though, she can give him a run for the money when it comes to color coordination…

It’s a running joke that everyone has a colour preference when it comes to dressing up since college and somehow everyone stuck to their choices despite graduation. Just when he starts to feel safe, that female turns towards his direction and walks towards him. Mitsuhide can hear the cackling sound of Fate echoing in his ears as she draws nearer.

“You’re Akechi-san, yes? I was sent to bring you in by the hostess herself.” It is an interesting feeling to actually meet eye-to-eye with a female other than Her. Most females tend to watch the others more than him. The sudden urge to tease just struck him and he decides to just go with it.

“..Oh?..And what makes you think I am this person you’re seeking, hm?...”

He nearly chuckled aloud when she pulses her lips in a disgruntled manner. Taking a deep breath, she replied. “I was told you’ll be difficult, and to expect someone who uses verbal banter to tease. Seems to me you fit that requirement.”

Eyebrows shot up at the counter remark, Mitsuhide narrowed his eyes, shooting her a look that usually have people scurrying away in fright. He wants her cowering in his presence before he teases the hell out of her. Not quite liking a female to best him in his speciality. Instead, the female stared at him, her eyes seems to be searching something. Just as he was about give into the urge to voice his exasperation, she broke off the staring match by turning away first.

“I don’t know what is troubling you and I doubt you’ll confine to a total stranger like myself, but you shouldn’t be alone with whatever thoughts hovering inside you. I can see it just beyond your gaze. Give me 2 minutes, tops. I’ll let them know and be back......”

“...! No...wait...” Mitsuhide reaches out and grabs hold of her wrist, holding her back. She halt her tracks, waiting. With the back against the country club, her eyes and expression are hidden by the glare of the lights emitting from the building. “Do you have any with you?”

“Huh?” She tilts her head slightly, the gesture eerily similar to Her that it shook him more than he realised. He forces himself to relax and puts on his scrimtar smile.

“Cigarettes, or were you thinking of something…...” Her sudden blush at his scruinity as he brings himself closer to her, invading her space, nearly made his lips twitch. Hurriedly, she twists her arm away from him and take two steps away. Holding her wrist close to her chest, she nods back and reaches to her back pocket. Mitsuhide catches the blue and white box as she tosses it to him after she draws a stick out.

…………

……

…...this feels comfortable, despite the prolonged stay out in the cold, taking a drag with someone other than the usual crowd……

Mitsuhide looks down at his smoking companion, puffing her stick like a smoking chimney. Each puff causes a grimace to appear on her face. Soon she finishes her share and close her eyes as she leans against the lamp post they were hanging out under. Mitsuhide racks his brain over her presence, he doesn’t mind the companionship offered and the silence between them do not require any conversation to fill in. However, curiosity compels him to answer one question: why her and not the other guys?

As if she heard his unspoken thoughts, he hear her voice, clear as a bell chime. “The others, meaning your friends, actually wanted to come out looking for you and asked her about it. After overhearing the content of the conversation you had with her, I volunteered.” Then she starts to chuckle, her lips, jade green in colour, something that should have looked repulsive but on her, it’s actually alluring…...

“What’s their reaction towards your decision?” Mitsuhide knows Masamune would have fought for it, Nobunaga might have considered it, Hideyoshi could have gone either way; jump at the chance, if only to put Princess’s mind at ease, or stay back to soothe her. Ieyasu only bother to react if he’s really in trouble. As for Mitsunari, well, that’s something else altogether.

She is grinning now, her lips a wide curve on her face. “Oh, the eyepatch guy, I think Date-san, he’s quite verbal about fetching you. The groom, Hideyoshi-san, he looks indecisive, so I’m guessing he’s a no-go. The leader of the pack, Oda-sama, he’s like smirking at something as he watches from the barstool he’s perched on. The others I have no impression at all...Ahh……” She starts to shuffle her feet, not making at eye contact with him.

If he’s not mistaken, that’s guilt on her face before she breaks off, “...What did you promise?”

“......Erh...I made a bet with Masamune, I mean Date-san, to be honest….” she shrugs her shoulders. “It’s okay, you know. I mean, it was made out of jest, so there’s no reason for you to kn…..”

“I’ll be the judge of that…...what did you bet with Masamune...no, with the rest of them?” She rolls her eyes at the demanding tone, and Mitsuhide’s lips twitches at her overly dramatic expressions at his insistence.

“....kiss...that’s all…...” she mutters under her breath. The silver haired male blinks at that single word utter from her lips, wondering if he imagined it. Keeping his face stoic, he asks her to repeat. This time, he heard everything, even though it’s not much louder from her previous pitch.

...the bet is a kiss from you, on my lips, my lipstick on your lips...that’s all…

Mitsuhide might not have known this female for long, but based off first impression, she doesn’t seem like someone who would force anything on others nor do anything reckless unless……

“What’s the prize?” he asked. She looks at him, her eyes round in surprise, “...How did you...”

“I’m familiar with the mindset of those lots, there’s always a catch if you make a bet with either Masamune, Nobunaga or myself. So bear that in mind the next time if the offer is too good to be true.” Mitsuhide paused, his words reverberate in his mind.

Why am I warning her when this could be the only time we’ll ever see each other…

Shaking his head mentally, he waits for her reply. The promise of one favor per person, in this case, five promises, given unconditionally, had him sighing aloud. Of course, it has to be something significant to her, darn those guys…… “What happens if you loses the bet?”

“I have to dance with your friends…...it’s really okay, you know. I can accept the loss…...” she trails off, writhing her fingers as she looks at anything but him.

“...Oh really...what if I don’t want you to lose, hm?” Some devil must have gotten a hold of his tongue, because he is not believing what is being utter out from his mouth, but it’s too late…...those words have been spoken and hung between them.

She looks up at him, astonishment evident on her fine features. “Are you alright? Having a fever or something?” She stretches out and touch his forehead with her hand.

...its ice cold...am I having a temperature….or is it…

He grabs the hand on his head; he’s not having a fever, she’s freezing herself by staying with him out in the cold. Cursing himself for not noticing, he hastenly pulls her into his embrace, knocking the breath out of her lungs. Even with his overcoat on, he could feel the coolness of her body as her reddened nose nuzzling on his shoulder. It never occur to him to remove his coat for her, but his instincts tells him this way is better

“...Akechi...mmm, you could...”

“...Hush…...not until you have warmed up...”

“...but...”

“......shhhhhhh...” he whispers into her ear, causing her body to react by shivering involuntary.

“............” he could sense her reluctance as she comply to his request

“...what’s your name?.....it just occur to me that though you know who I am, I’m left in the dark as to who you were...”

Laughter bubbles out from her mouth, being muffled by his chest. “Even if I tell you, you’re going to butch it like the rest of the people who ever heard it...you can call me Duchess, I think it’s much easier for you to remember”

“...Duchess...” he rolls the name with his tongue, tasting the texture. “Why that nickname?”

“...it’s an insider joke...” His amber eyes flicker down on her head, her abrupt tone lets him know the subject is close.

“Well now, Duchess...I think it’s time to collect your payment from my associates,” he drawls. She shakes her head; he could feel her chuckling against him as he lifts himself slightly away from her.

“Okay, pucker up Buttercup...”

“Actually, it’s Mitsuhide to you, Duchess...”

“....jeez...fine, Mitsuhide then...”

……

…

Just as Hideyoshi’s about to throw in the towel and head for the door to collect two wayward persons instead of one, the door swings open, bringing them in.

“About time the both of you came back. Did you know how cold is it outside now? Look at you! Your noses are as red as Rudolph…...” They stood silently and let Hideyoshi hover over them, giving them warm towels, courtesy of the staff, hot drinks and shoos them to the nearest seat, which happens to be a two-seater sofa. The bride, better known as Princess among friends and family, chuckles at her husband’s overprotective antics. The rest of the guys joins her to watch the ‘mother’ of their group fusses over their wayward mischief maker and his companion.

Masamune was the first to notice there is something different with Mitsuhide, “...Is it me or is there something on his lips...”

Everyone’s attention is now focused on the trickster’s lips as he sips the hot beverage laced with alcohol. Then they switched their focus towards her, scrutinising her attire. Slightly mustered hair, flushed cheeks, and the most telling of signs, smeared lips.

“...ooohhhh…...you guys are in trouble…...”

“............Darn you, Masamune! You had to dare her! Now I owe her a favor despite my lack of involvement…...”

“Hey now! I didn’t know who she was until she left the room. You cannot pin the blame on me, Ieyasu. You could have disagree with the arrangement...”

“...Like you could when Nobunaga is the one who upped the stakes…..”

“...I don’t mind doing a favor for her. I believe she’ll be fair in her request, just like Princess here...”

“...just be quiet, Mitsunari...”

As the rest of them argues over the loss of the bet, Nobunaga keep his eyes on them, noticing something else other than the lipstick stain on his closest friend’s lips. His body stance is very much relaxed compared to the beginning of the wedding march. His shoulders stay in contact with the female even though there’s plenty of space for him to shift away if he so inclines. He watches as she turns her attention to Mitsuhide and whispers into his ear, pointing her fingers towards their direction when Hideyoshi turns his back to them and heads back to his bride. He’s the only one who witnesses their gesture as they lift their cups as one and salute a toast to him. Nobunaga roars with laughter and everyone wonders what got him in such a boisterous mood.

[givemesnekboiasap]

Photo Booth

Here’s a one-shot inspired by @ikesenhell Glitter and Gold. Set in Modern AU

Some Fluff, Some NSFW, overall my first attempt at 3 person relationship. Hope you’ll enjoy.

@cherryb0mb79 ​sorry about the delay on the Mitsu-chan continuation. I’ll edit it a bit before posting within the next 24 hrs. In the mean time, hope you’ll enjoy this little doujinshi

 @deathbyotome a little something for you to read, heehee

Japanese honorifics - sama, dono, san, chan, kun (rank in according to formality)

“Tell me why am I doing this with the both of them……”

“Well...technically, you lose the bet and you promised to clear the forfeit by today and since you cannot make a decision, the 11 of them, excluding myself, draw lots and those who drew the longest stick wins

“Longest? I thought it was supposed to be the shortest….”

Sasuke whispered, “the thing is, none of them find it a chore to perform the forfeit, especially if you’re the prize...” the last sentence nearly muffled as he covers his mouth. Kelsey Lee looks at him, her cousin cum childhood friend. She counts the familiar faces that always hangs around with her nerdy cousin and those who she seen before in her workplace in the cosplay cafe.

“...why is Mori-dono doing among them?! He knows my boss!”

“He’s a friend to Shingen-sama and Kenshin-sama. I’m sorry about this, had I know about your connection with him, I would never would have asked him to join in. He’s one of four among them comfortable in cosplaying.”

“Let me guess, the other 3 would be Oda and Date and Shingen himself then….ahhhhh, fine! Let’s get this over with...which of the guys am I partnering with?....No...not them…...please, Sasuke, please tell me it’s not them...”

The silence speaks for itself, as the two males, one with ebony hair, the other chestnut mane, chiseled faces, toned bodies, long legged swagger and confident strides brought them to her doorstep.

“Seems like we’re your escorts today, kitten. Right, Nobu?”

She scrowls at the both of them, especially Nobu, who gives her a smirk that sets her teeth on the edge. Kel turns away from them, walking to the booth to get their costumes.

Today, there’s an anime festival for otome games, and they need change into costumes to cosplay as in-game characters. She has to stand-in for a fellow colleague, who’s down with flu, when the guys dropped a bomb on her head, telling her she needs to fulfill the forfeit now; which is to date with one of them, according to Nobu. Her manager, Ms Hana, takes one look at the gathering and propose an alternative; cafe mascot cum dating. Kelsey nearly expires on the spot when Ms Hana said she needs 2 male volunteers dressed up as famous warlords.  

“Hurry up, we haven't got all day!”

“If you’re not out by the count of 10, I’m coming in...1...2...3...”

“!!!...Wait! I’m...having problem...the sash...”

Nobu had enough of waiting and pulls the curtain aside, causing Kel to shout at the top of her voice.

“GET THE FREAKING ‘ELL OUT OF HERE!!!” Nobu winces but ignores her command. He slides the curtain back and takes a long look at the source of her problem.

“Next time, call for help….stubborn female...” He holds the heavy obi sash for her and tighten it as she ties the obi coil in place.

“...even if you and Masa were the last males available….” she stops as she recalls the last time she did that, she was being kissed within an inch of her life by him, of all people. His lips curve into a teasing smile as he too, remembers how this conversation ends up.

“Done...I must commend you on your appearance. You truly look wonderful in traditional kimono.” His hands lingers on her obi, she can sense the heat and the heavy presence of his appendages just below her bustline. Her breathing deepens unintentionally, syncing with him. If she tilts her head back, she knows he’ll look down and that would lead to complications. Neither wants to make the first move, cocooned in the tiny changing closet.

Masa’s voice shatters the intimate moment as he draws the curtain open. “Are you ready? Your manager is hounding outside. Seems like we, as new additions, has caused a surge of customers hovering outside the cafe….ooohhh, well now...I must say you look absolutely gorgeous, Kelly. You should wear kimono more often.”

Luckily Nobu already had his hands removed from her person and took a step back when the curtain is drawn. Releasing a sigh, she squares her shoulders and look at her partners cum dates for today and smiles.

“Let’s get started. Today is going to be a very busy day...I wish to the both of you to have the patience and stamina for the day.”

……

Break arrives and the trio hunker down in a private booth at the back of the cafe to rest. The cafe is closed in preparation for guest arrivals of other cosplayers. The guys had no idea that modelling for avid fans to take snapshots after snapshots of them as the in-game characters would be this tiring. And some of those fans are professional photographers, representing famous magazines catering to the otaku industry. The poses and fighting stance they had to put up with taxed their arms and backs. Then there were the females who wants to take selfie with them. Kelsey chuckles as she watches them shudder in reaction.

“Hey, Kelly...how did you stomach people, completely strangers pawing you in the name of taking photos?” She is not surprised that Masa is the one who voiced it. He hates confinement and being pinned in to take tons of photos is making him ansty.

“Aww, my poor baby feeling put out? Don’t worry, the worst is over. We can go for our ‘date’, I don’t shrink from my promises.” She pats his cheek, giving the wild stallion of the gang, a teasing smirk. As she start to withdraw her hand, Masa catches her hand and lifts it to his lips, giving her a kiss on the top of her palm.

“......Masa...” she squeaks, her face flushes pink rapidly. Nobu, who is sitting on her left, turns to sit behind her and pulls her back to his chest with his right arm. Masa starts to nibble her fingertips, causing her breath to hitch. Nobu bends forward, his lips at her ear, whispering

“Relax, he knows. He’s fine with it, I’m fine with it. He already told me of the accidental kissing incident...hold it!” He tighten his grip of her when she starts to struggle out of his embrace.

“It’s your fault, you know. All that fire and energy, when you channel it towards something, it’s fascinating to watch. When you do that to a person, especially a guy, like us, it’s like an unspoken challenge to take you, tame you and own you...” Masa comments as he continues showering affections on her hand with his velvet lips. The eyepatch currently covering his right side made his left eye more brilliant as it glows with banked desire.

Nobu relaxes as she stops all signs of escaping and shifts her onto his lap. “Not to worry, Kelsey. A promise is a promise, this is a date. We will not proceed any further from first base without your verbal consent. What’s more, we need to take a photo to commemorate our official first date together. Masa, let go of her hand. She needs to cool down before we bring her out. I’m not willing to display her current expression to any prying eyes, especially from our group.”

Kelsey’s mind is still spinning from the revelation the two had heaped on her head. How? When? Why me? She still doesn’t understand her appeal; they must have cracked their head from doing too many stunts...wait, that’s more to Masa’s alley. Nobu is the rational one, despite his autocratic attitude. As she tries to figure out what’s going on in their mind, the trio manage to rejoin everyone and they enter the convention hall for the festive celebrations.

Masa found those sticker photo booth and drags everyone there for photo sessions. When Kelsey asks him why, he just shrugs, “This is different from those photo sessions, I can do whatever I like.”

She just shakes her head, chuckling softly. As soon as everyone is occupied with taking photos of themselves, Masa pulls her into one of those booths with a full-length curtain, concealing them once the divider flips down. Nobu steps in a few seconds later, holding her body close to his as Masa fiddles with the touch screen, scanning through the choices available. Kelsey had to whisper to avoid the others from listening into their conversation.

“You do know that this is a one-time deal? After that, we’re going back as friends...” The guys show no indication of letting this ‘date’ slide, with Nobu giving her an arrogant look, and Masa chuckling softly.

“Lass, you can wait for all eternal but there is no way we’re going back as friends...especially after a revelation of my reaction while watching you getting touched by males during the photo sessions” Nobu’s eyes took on a deeper shade of red, something akin to garnet when he speaks.

“...I know you’re worried about how people might look at you if they found out about the threesome. Indeed, that is something I have considered and discuss with Masa. We will, for appearance’s sake, remain as friends. However, you’ll have to limit the point of contact on your person from other males. Neither of us will hold responsibilities when the line is crossed…...behind closed doors, you are ours. Understand?”

“Crystal but I still don’t think….hmph…!!!”

Her protests are being drowned under the onslaught of Masa’s kisses as his lips come into contact with hers. Fingers being entwined by another, her arms pulled back as Kelsey is being squeezed in the middle of two muscular torsos. Nobu grazes her ears, nibbling the outer shell as Masa tilts his head for a deeper penetration. Only when she slumps against the devil’s chest did the dragon releases her to surface.

“......There, perfect for the photo shoot.” Masa grins down as he adjusts her kimono and turns her to face the camera. With his arm on her shoulder, Masa stands on her left as Nobu took her right, placing his left hand on her head. “One, two, three…” CLICKS

…………

By the time Kelsey is aware of her surroundings, the machine has printed out the stickers and Masa retrieves it from the dispenser. After taking one look, Nobu gives a tiny smile. He took it out from the chestnut mane male’s grasp and tucks it into the folds of his kimono. Masa grumbles about someone being possessive, he walks out with her, his arm sliding around her shoulders and keeps her close to his side. Nobu follows behind at a much slower pace, enjoying the view of his interest and rival hand in hand, noting to himself that this is going to be an interesting experience.

[givemesnekboiasap]

Toxic_Continuation

@deathbyotome, this is pretty much a WIP, but I hoped it’s still in context to the nature of the story. Part one of two to Kenshin_Toxic.

Do expect characters to be OOC cuz I based it from my interpretation from IkeSen TW, especially Mitsunari Ishida.

Please be gentle with the comments >.<  

Cold....so cold.... and pain......it is the only thing that tells her she’s still breathing, barely alive though...

Her first thought of each day is about the lord of Kagasuyama Castle, her last thoughts was whether will she wakes up to another day in this dank cell the general had thrown her in. The first cell where she was held prisoner was only a decoy. He yanks her head back as he told her of his grievances, his rage, those words spewed out uncontrollably. As he ranted, the general tore a section of her dirty kimono and with the blood that was oozing out from the cut on her neck, he wrote something on the cloth. After that, with a quick jerk of his hand, he sliced a chunk of her locks and placed it together with the cloth.

Smirking, the general boasted about him not able to find her after this night, before he pulled her off the ground and spirited her away with the rest of the remaining men locked up with her. It was later known that the men who brought them to another location were mercenaries bought over by the general himself, none of his men were involved. Closing her eyes, she prayed hard that all will be well for him. She had overheard from one of the men guarding them that everyone, including herself will be transported out under the cover of darkness to the trading post by the harbour. Everyone will be sold off as slaves to foreign countries, in a place called Siam.

She could never see Shingen-sama, Yukimura-san, Sasuke-kun and especially Kenshin-sama...not to mention the rest of the warlords in the Oda faction. Grief, welled up inside of her as she chokes back her tears. Suddenly, she hear footsteps approaching her cell. Measured and smooth, it reminds her of a predator slinking between the grass, waiting for the right moment to strike. The footfalls stopped at the entrance to her prison; she heard a sharp inhale before a voice she thought she’ll never hear again called out to her.

“...Princess... we’re going home...”

“......Mitsu...hide...san......”

............

......

...

It’s a good thing that he never removed the spies watching over Echigo as she went over to stay with Kenshin and that lot of them after the whole Kennyo incident. Humans, no matter how fearful they are towards someone, their seething hatred will strike out when opportunity allow them. And it’s usually the victims who suffer the consequences. The second he heard of a possible revolt among the ranks of the Uesugi forces, he personally oversees the whole investigation. Nobunaga, who had noticed his distraction, asked about it during one of their reportings in his tenshu.

“Mitsuhide, it is unusual for you to be this unfocused during your reports. What is troubling you?”

He turns his gaze outwards and his light amber eyes meets those sharp jasper eyes of his lord. So far, he’s the only lord he knows that will never let his guard down, even in the presences of his trusted aides, except for one Oda princess.

“...It’s just a hearsay that I’m personally taking care of...”

Nobunaga immediately understand the subtle hint Mitsuhide is conveying to him; something is brewing and it is related to someone close to their hearts. Only one person would have Mitsuhide and everyone, including him, up in arms.

The lord of Azuchi gives him a level look before he replies, “Proceed with haste and I grant you permission to do whatever it takes to resolve the matter.”

Mitsuhide nods, and turns away from the clan head of Oda, his face pensive.

......

That was almost a month ago, and it took him by surprise that it occurred during the Dragon’s celebration of his birth. She calls it a birthday party during one of their own banquets as she helped out with the preparations. She was the intended sacrifice to overthrow Kenshin Uesugi’s control over Echigo. His heart nearly gave out when his spies reported back about the poisoning, the arrest and the nearly beheadment of the Oda princess.

Thankful, the Tiger came in the nick of time to interrupt, otherwise the whole incident would spiral down the path of no return. The Oda army will rain retribution on Echigo, sparing no one, regards of their innocences. Taking a deep breath, Mitsuhide swiftly orders his men to keep a close watch on the development and take necessary actions to keep the princess alive. He rode out of his palace, after sending messages to all the Oda warlords; a private letter to Nobunaga, detailing everything he had uncovered about the usurping in Echigo.

It’s a three day, two night ride from Azuchi to Echigo, and he made it in two days, without resting. The reports that comes flying in at every village he stops to change a horse made his blood freeze. The latest report informed him of the prisoners from the valley have been transported to the harbour known for illegal trading and he changes his direction towards the destination. Fortunately, it’s only an hours ride, and Mitsuhide quickly rallys all his informants to scour through the streets about a lone female brought in to be sold as a slave.

He strikes gold after the fifth informant told him of a group of mercenaries, coming in late last night. The men were to be sold off as slaves, the female, they were planning to have a bidding auction, sold to the highest bidder. Her rumoured virginity, serves to rope in the worst of what humanity can spit out. The master negotiator thanks his informant and tells him to claim his reward from one of his aides as he strides out of the room. It’s time to end this.

......

...

“Hmm...”

That single sound emitting from her mouth is enough to alert her caretaker from his slumber. Quickly, he sends one of the maids to update everyone of her awakening. Slowly and gently, he cradles her hand in his palms, her bandages, a stark reminder of what she had been through. Was it only just last week when he received the message to attend an emergency war council in the castle only to hear about the usurping in Kagasuyama Castle and their princess being held responsible for the treachery. Everyone nearly erupted out of their seats; Masamune-sama and Hideyoshi-sama threatening to tear the vile general apart using their bare hands. Even Ieyasu-sama was not spared from feeling a little bloodthirsty, you could never guessed it based from the tone of indifference, but his eyes and body stance revealed a different story.

He, himself, was in shock but most importantly, the seeping coldness that resided deep within his core, has taken the first step out into his consciousness, and he, Mitsunari Ishida, in his fully alert capacity, allows it. It’s the only way to keep her safe from now on, I’ll take any measures possible to protect her, even if it means forsaking my humanity for it, she’s not going back to Kenshin Uesugi...

…………

……

…

TBC......

[givemesnekboiasap]

Behind the Scene of Mt Hiei

Year, 1571, months before the event......

“...Onii-sama, you cannot go to his aid, especially since the announcement of your death. Let Fate decides on his survival...”

“......as much as it goes against my grain, I will listen to you.....Yuki, you know what to do...”

“I’ll send the Mitsumono and keep updates on their whereabouts, my lord. You need to focus on your health first, let Aoi-chan and myself act in your stead...”

............

......

...

“My lord! The Mitsumono have send news! The Oda army is heading for Mt Hiei...”

“Isn’t where the warrior monks of Enryaku-ji have established their fortress?”

“...the devil have decided to eradicate the monks once and for all, but my concern are the civilians who will be caught in the chaos...”

“Chances are the town of Sakamoto, located at the base of the mountain will be destroyed to ensure all escape routes are blocked. This will cause the villagers to panic and head up the mountain. The monks will have to take the defensive stand instead of an all-out assault on the Oda. Fire will be the fastest and most direct approach to wipe everyone out...”

“...Kenshin nii-sama...... send me to Sakamoto...”

“NO! You cannot go!” “NO! I wouldn’t let you!”

“But I’m the only person that can move about without raising any suspicion. Yukimura-san, who’s heading the army?”

“I heard it’s Akechi...which is as bad as having Oda himself leading the campaign...”

“...So, he entrusts the destruction of Enryakuji to the viper...that can be a good thing or a worse scenario... especially with rumors saying that there’s amorosity brewing between them...”

“I can handle him...please, let me go...before it's too late...”

“......Alright...” “Kenshin!” “Wait! Before you go flying out of the estate, you must make a blood oath to come back, alive. Or Shingen will pay the price of your carelessness...”

“......” “How DARE you threaten my lord?!”

“...Bwahahahahah......” “...Fine, I promise. Cross my heart, or may lightning strike upon me...”

“Aoi!” “Don’t worry, Yukimura. See, even Onii-sama is smiling...I’ll see everyone in a months time...”

Year 1571, September, Sakamoto Town

“......it is as stated in the report, the people here had no idea the horror that’s approaching them......”

Mitsuhide, sitting upon his stead, watches the bustling of the town below as his men are busy with the setting up of camp. Soon the rest of the troops, bearing matchlocks will arrive and once the scouts return, he’ll start the invasion at dusk. Usually, it is not recommended as this will result in the men accidentally striking their allies, but this is not a battlefield, this is an all-out massacre. Using the villagers as distraction, the monks will have to split their forces to protect the innocents and fight against 30,000 armed men of the Oda forces.

“...I’m hesitating on behalf of my lord, despite knowing sacrifices must be made to ensure the monks will not rise to oppose the Oda army again... Is there an alternative method to avoid unnecessary bloodshed...”

“My lord! Important message from our scouts, there is a lone rider coming towards us!”

“...Erh? ...there can only be one person who will dare ride into Oda camp...my camp...Let the person in, and bring the rider to me, unharmed.”

“Sir?” “Do as I tell you, do not worry...but inform the rest of the troops to prepare for a change of plans.”

“Understood, Sir!”

......

“Mitsuhide, thank you for allowing me to see you...” Aoi approaches the lone man clad in sky blue and white light armor, on top of her horse.

“Save the pleasantries for later. I believe your presence before me means you know of Oda’s plan to crush the monks once and for all. Well, do you have another plan other than using the civilians as cannon fodder, Aoi-san?”

“Yes, I do, and the beginning of my plan is already proceeding...look, the farmers are heading out to their fields. It's harvest time after all, everyone needs to be out to help gather up the rice stalks...”

“...and I see children coming out with their mothers to help as well...” Eyes widening, he smirks and gets one of his retainers to send a portion of the troops down to the field, armed with light weapons.

“And look over there, the market is preparing a harvest festival, the merchants are all busy setting up their stalls. They have received permission from the temple to have a celebration for a bountiful harvest...”

“...Excellent, that means everyone will be out of their houses...” With a wave of his hand, Mitsuhide signals another of his retainers to divide a portion of the troops out, disguised as travelling merchants to join in the festive. From their vantage point, they can see the Oda troops slowly replacing the villagers with themselves. Now they need is for the sun to set. Mitsuhide dismiss his men, and once he’s sure they are alone, he asks her an unsuspecting question.

“How is the Tiger holding up?” Aoi blinks at his question, and shook her head. “Bedrest, but going stronger by the day...at least for now...”

“...Ahh, and the dragon allows his precious little hime to leave his side? Has he grown feeble in the head as well as spirit?”

Aoi glares at him, before sighing, “Not the least, both my brothers know that come hell or high water, I will rush here to minimize the slaying of innocent lives. How are you holding up?”

Mitsuhide gives her his signature ambiguous smile, “I’ll doing as fine as I can be...however, a piece of advice. Do not interfere with the campaign at Hongan-ji. My liege, will not be as forgiving as me, as to allow a potential spy waltzes into camp...Promise me.”

Aoi is startled by the harsh tone of her frenemy. Looking up into his eyes, she realizes that he’s been keeping a tight leash on his temper. Her arrival must have cause him additional undue worry; she already notices his slight frown upon her arrival beside him.

“...Are you going to stay to the bitter end?...No, of course you’re staying. You cannot help yourself, being a healer, right?”

“What are you going to do with the villagers?”

Mitsuhide shrugs, “Not my problem, it’s your idea to have the Oda troops to impersonate as civilians. With the darkness of night and the smoke produce by the fire, the monks will not be able to distinguish my men from the villagers. Since you’ve shared the knowledge of lightweight armour with me, it will protects the men’s lives despite its fragile appearance.”

“You tested it? Already? When?

“...It’s a secret... let’s just say, it is one of those few things that surprises me and leave it as that.”

Aoi suspects that Mitsuhide dons the prototype she creates. Without her expressing it explicitly, he knew that she made that for him and she is glad it serves its purpose; to protect this man until...

“Honno-ji...” “Hmm?”

Aoi waves her hand, her mind suddenly starts to ache. Mitsuhide, notices her pallor, moves closer and hoist her onto his horse. She stiffen her body at the sudden contact of his cool body, but after several insisting tugs, Aoi sighs in reply, and rests her body against his as they wait.

............

......

...

Dawn, the aftermath of Enryakuji

Mitsuhide watches as the land before him is engulf by a sea of flames. In his arms, Aoi remain silent, sharing the same view as him. The arm he wraps around her waist is dampen by her tears, he holds her closer into his embrace. Mitsuhide is not sure who is comforting who; her presence with an alternate plan or him with his arm, holding her steady as they listen to the reports his scouts send back. Despite everything, there are some who refuse to listen, causing them to act exactly what the God of War predicts.

“It’s much lesser, comparing to what it could have been, Aoi. Take that as a form of consolation...”

Aoi nods, rubbing her eyes with the heel of her hands. Earlier, Mitsuhide refuses to let her get off the horse to help the wounded. According to his words, ‘The lesser my men notices you, the better. Who knows which of them will sing like the cuckoo bird once we return to Gifu.’

“I have send word to an Uesugi affiliated province to let your brothers know of the situation, but I deliberately left out the surviving villagers. Let them think your plan failed...no, quiet and listen. I’ll assist one of my trusted retainers to allocate them to different Oda conquered lands. They cannot be placed together in one location. I’m sure you understand why.”

Aoi huffs out in frustration, inwardly smiling. Despite his aloof words of not helping her relocate the villagers, she knows he’ll do exactly what she hoped after she outlines the plan, though with minor adjustments to the finer details.

Looking at his profile, she should not have shared her origin to him, at least what little she remembers when she arrives here two years ago. They are playing a dangerous game, tampering history while trying to avoid the butterfly effect. She hasn’t mentioned about the possibility of someone accidently stumping into the wormhole from her period, or the potential of a wormhole in this period that will take her to who knows where. She did vaguely remember someone shouting for her to wait as she was being thrown into this timeline .

Wiggling, she signals to him to let her go. Mitsuhide deposits her back onto her horse, and watches her straightening her clothes. Aoi gives a slight shiver as the lingering warmth of his embrace are being swiftly absorbed by the cool morning air.

“...Well, I guess this is goodbye...”

Mitsuhide keeps his silence as Aoi solumnely nods her head and back off before the rest of the troops return from a successful battle. His fists clenched, Mitsuhide sucks in a deep breath of the cold air. Now is not the time to falter, not when close to half of the country is under the Oda flag. She mentions the name of the temple that his lord recently renovated as a retreat in Kyoto.

“...Hmm, I wonder...I guess we’ll have to see if there is anything significant about it. Right, Aoi-chan...”

[givemesnekboiasap]

Envy

Jealousy is not an unfamiliar emotion to him. Similar to anger, he finds it useful to twist and tugs its strings, manipulating it like a master puppeteer and watches the outcome, regardless good or bad, behind the scene. They called him a trickster, a kitsune, snake and some less than favourable terms to describe him out of his sight or hearing. But he always knows and it matters not. Until, she comes along.

As he watches her asking the young male questions about the properties of different herbs and how he guides her hands as she prepares a remedy, a sour sizzle settles in his gut. When he hears her deadpan banter with him in the kitchen, he couldn’t help but pauses his footsteps to listen in, a slow winding constriction in his chest.

Each passing day since her arrival, he notices little things that occurs around her happens for a reason. Whether or not she wills it, things just seems to go her way, even the chatelaine notices it and she can be oblivious as their resident bookworm. His lord and the faithful nanny of the castle are charmed by her straight-forwardness and tact since Day One, and that is not an easy feat. Irritation sets in as he recounts all the encounters she has with the other warlords and realize that she hasn’t approach him for anything, not even a chance meeting along the hallway.

One day, he notices the other vassals having a lengthy conversation with her, their voices drifted over to his side, muffled but pleasant. That is, until his name is brought into the conversation. The oppressing silence is overwhelming. He chooses to walk away, not wanting to see her expression change after listening to them. This time, a heavy weight presses hard on his chest, he suppresses the urge to rub it.

As much as it pains him to admit, he wants her attention on him. The why still eludes him and he tries not probe too deeply into his psyche. With his gift of information gathering, he understands that she’ll always spends her spare time in the backyard. As he approaches the venue, he hears the twank of the bowstring, followed by the whistling sound of the arrow before it strikes its target.

There, before his very eyes, was her dressed in hakuma, her sleeves held back with silken rope. Arrows stood tall in a row beside her as she relaxed her stance. What had him stopping in his tracks is the distance between her and the target. Curious, he keeps himself still, silently watching as she plucks another arrow of the ground, sets on her bow and draws the string. She sights the target less than three paces away before releasing the arrow again. If he’s to compare her with Ieyasu, her form more refined, graceful like a drawing come to life.

A sudden stillness sets around her. Tilting her head, she slowly turns her body and faces him. Nodding in acknowledgment, she quickly tidies her arrows. Sensing her urgency to depart, he quickly intercepts, and helps her remove the arrows from the target. Murmuring her thanks, she waits for him to give her the arrows. But he didn’t want to, instead he gestures her to follow him. He heard her soft shuffle of her footsteps as they walked; him in front leading, she behind trailing.

Finally, they stop under the shade of a huge sakura tree. She makes a sound of awe as the flowers sway together with the wind. The silence between them makes him aware of the quickening pace of his heartbeat. Turning his gaze at her, he speaks.

............

......

...

It is nearly sunset by the time they depart from the tree, she walks in the direction towards the chatelaine’s chamber, he heads back out of the castle to his residence. In his hand is a small bento box, half empty; a gift from her, in a form of lunch. Something for him, according to her, using her knowledge on medicinal herbs and culinary skills to prepare this special lunch. When he asks her for the reason, she blushes and waves off his question. Despite his lack of taste on the food, he could tell she spends a lot of effort in the preparation.

A warm stirring begins to pulse inside of him as he recalls her promise to pack lunches for him whenever he comes over to Azuchi Castle. He realizes he didn’t get any answer as to why she went out of the way to avoid him and yet letting him find her at her favourite spot, with a bento just for him. He’ll ask her the next time round.