swordsofdevotion

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Gal Gadot as Diana Prince/Wonder Woman in Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)

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Sooga, right hand man of the Inverted Eye.

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The jump from 2019 to 2024 is sooo violent.

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being on tumblr for a long time but never reading homestuck like

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Chapter 9: The Blademaster

Rank promotions.

cw: bodily harm, blood, strong violence.

With little time left to react, Michiko jumped out of the way as the lynel bulldozed its way in her direction. The beast huffed as it turned to look at Michiko who lay on the ground and pulled out its sword, ready to attack once more.

Michiko grabbed her demon carver and she took on a defensive stance. The lynel stood on its hind legs and swung its sword side to side, managing to slash Michiko’s right forearm before she disappeared for a few seconds then reappeared on the lynel’s back. She grabbed onto the beast’s mane as it jumped around, trying to get her off him.

With her demon carver, she managed to cut the lynel open, and even if it was just a minor wound to the beast, it seemed to get him angrier — as he threw Michiko off his back and threw her across the sandy dunes of Gerudo Desert. Michiko landed on her back with a soft “oof” escaping her lips.

The lynel didn’t even waste time as it once more charged at Michiko and rammed into her body. She cried out in pain as the lynel seemed to gain the upper hand and if she was honest, Michiko wasn’t sure how the hell she was still alive. With its horns, the lynel picked Michiko up into the air then slammed her body down once. As the lynel stood underneath an unstable rocky cliff, Michiko picked up a stone that lay near her without being seen by the lynel and pretended to be unconscious.

When the lynel looked away for a few seconds, Michiko threw the stone at the unstable cliff as it dropped jagged pieces of rock and some of them pierced through the lynel’s flesh. The beast let out a pained wail but it bought Michiko plenty of time to get up and reach out for her demon carver.

The lynel swung its sword at Michiko’s legs, she reacted quickly and did a backflip and swung her demon carver, slashing the beast across the chest. The deep gash angered the beast even more as he reached out and scratched Michiko with its sharp nails on her left forearm.

Michiko felt herself growing more tired as the fight went on but she didn’t have the option to stop fighting — otherwise she would’ve stopped a long time ago but she also didn’t want to become lynel chow. And her strange powers. She wasn’t sure how to use them or what kind of damage she could do with them so Michiko stuck to the techniques she was trained to use.

Sooga joined Ren at the Kara Kara Bazaar as Sooga fought a Gerudo warrior named Bularia and Ren kept the other Gerudo warriors at bay along with the other foot soldiers.

Bularia went for an attack on Sooga but he was faster and more agile — he crossed his dual swords and pushed back. She stumbled backwards a little but didn’t fall and the two engaged in combat.

“Captain Bularia!” A Gerudo warrior called out as she rushed towards her. “You must come this instant — a molduga attack was reported near our base.”

Bularia lowered her scimitar as she hesitated to let the Yiga get away or to follow the Gerudo warrior and help her warriors get to safety. She opted for the latter as she took a long hard look at Sooga then retreated to her base and the other warriors followed her.

Among the Yiga, Sooga noticed one of them was missing — Lord Ren’s apprentice, Michiko. This was her unit and she usually completed tasks with them but she was nowhere to be seen.

“Lord Ren.. where’s your apprentice?”

As he opened his mouth to respond, Yuto spoke up.

“I apologize for interrupting, but Michiko was with me earlier. And as soon as the report that Lord Ren was engaged in combat came, she told me to leave her behind and that she could handle it on her own.”

Sooga could see that the foot soldiers that were held captive were successfully rescued but Michiko was taking a little too long to report back with everyone else.

What if she was laying somewhere, bleeding out. Or what if Michiko was now held captive in place of the foot soldiers she rescued.

“And you listened and left her alone?” Sooga questioned and Yuto didn’t respond.

“Sooga calm down, I’m sure she’s fine.” Ren tried to rationalize why she hasn’t reported back yet but Sooga wasn’t having it.

“You best hope that she’s still alive somewhere.” Sooga said, pointing a finger at him.

Sooga couldn’t stand losing a member of the clan, no matter what rank or how long he’s known them for.

“Where did you last see her? I’m going to find her.” He asked pointedly.

“By the Great Cliffs. I’ll come with-…”

“— Don’t bother.” Sooga cut him off and teleported himself to the great cliffs in hopes of finding Michiko still alive.

The lynel raised his sword, ready to deliver a killing blow on Michiko but she used the earthwake technique and gravel raised from the ground, making the lynel drop its sword.

The beast is stunned for a moment, and Michiko rushes to grab the sword the monster just dropped. While she’s distracted, he pulls out a bow and arrows and aims at her.

The arrow is sent flying at Michiko’s direction as it impales her leg and she sobs out in pain. She drops down as she whimpers and looks down at her wound. She was bleeding profusely from her leg but if she pulled out the arrow, Michiko would bleed out faster and die. And honestly, she weighed the options of just letting the lynel win or to keep fighting despite the wounds that were just weakening her.

With the last bit of strength left in her, Michiko slowly stood up on her good leg and the lynel aimed its arrow at her chest and let it go with the intent of killing her.

She disappeared, dropping ofuda cards behind for a few seconds then reappeared next to the lynel and slashed the lynel’s throat open with its own sword as generous amounts of blood poured onto the floor and the beast let out a guttural roar as it finally fell limp and the lynel’s body dropped with a loud thud.

“Michiko!” Sooga called out as she turned to look at him and weakly smiled.

The loss of blood was making Michiko feel faint. “H-hey. Lord Sooga.”

Michiko stumbled backwards and felt herself falling back but Sooga managed to catch her before she could hit the ground and everything went black.

When Sooga teleported himself to the Great Cliffs, he feared he might’ve been too late since Michiko was nowhere in sight; all there was were the Gerudo warriors knocked unconscious. They were still alive but knocked out. And an empty cell.

If it wasn’t for the lynel’s dying roar, Sooga would’ve thought that Michiko might’ve been taken captive. He rushed towards the beast’s cries and that’s when he spotted the dying golden lynel and Michiko standing above the beast.

However, she was very wounded. Her uniform was torn and bloodied, with various wounds covering her body.

“Michiko!” Sooga called out to get her attention, and thankfully she heard him as she turned to look at him. Despite her injuries, she weakly smiled at him and her voice sounded hoarse as she spoke up.

“H-hey. Lord Sooga.” He would’ve chuckled at the fact that despite dire circumstances, she didn’t drop formalities but there was no room for humor right now.

She tried to walk towards him but the moment he saw Michiko starting to collapse, Sooga rushed towards her and held her limp body in his arms. He picked her up bridal style and teleported themselves to the hideout.

Back at the hideout, Sooga rushed her into the medical wing of the hideout as Ayame tended to Michiko’s wounds.

“She’ll be fine.” Ayame tried to comfort her friend, but he only nodded and left without saying a thing.

If Michiko didn’t make it, Sooga would have to be the one to deliver the devastating news to her family and he hated having to do that every time they lost someone from the clan.

Sooga headed over to Master Kohga’s study to update the master on today’s mission. He knocked on Master Kohga’s door twice before the master told him to come in.

He updated the master on everything regarding the mission from start to finish, and the master held a finger up to stop him.

“I’ve noticed there’s a slump on your shoulders, Sooga. Either something went wrong in the mission or someone was killed.”

“… it’s about Lady Michiko, Master.”

“Was she killed in action?” Master Kohga carefully asked.

Sooga shook his head. “No.” He responded.

“Then why do you look so defeated?” Kohga inquired.

“Lady Michiko managed to rescue the captive foot soldiers on her own while simultaneously defeating Gerudo warriors. And right after, she fought a gold maned lynel. All on her own. When I found her, she had a lot of wounds and she looked very weak. And honestly, I don’t even know if she’s going to survive through the night.” Sooga recounted as he removed his mask.

“Hmm… so that’s why you look so defeated. Because you care for her.” Kohga commented with a teasing lilt.

At that moment, Sooga regretted having his mask off as his cheeks turned slightly pink.

“I care for everyone in the clan the same, Master.”

“And banana trees exist in the desert, Sooga. Seriously though, of course she’s going to pull through. And we’re going to promote her to the rank of blademaster when she wakes up.”

Sooga really hoped that Master Kohga would be right and that she would make it through.

Four days later, Michiko finally woke up and slowly sat up, as she rubbed her head.

“How are you feeling?” Ayame asked, quietly approaching the foot of the bed.

“I’m still a bit sore and with a headache.” Michiko replied, chuckling dryly.

“But you don’t feel dizzy or nauseous right? I want to make sure that you don’t have a concussion.” Ayame said.

Michiko shook her head no. “No dizziness or nausea.” She confirmed.

Ayame handed her a small pill and a cup of water. “It should make you feel better.”

“Thanks.”

Ten minutes later, Michiko was asleep again and Ayame quietly turned off the lantern in the room and closed the door behind her.

“How is she?” Sooga asked as he walked into Ayame’s office.

“To ease your mind, she’s going to live. She was awake for a little bit because she had a headache but I gave her some medicine to make her feel better.” Ayame explained.

“You should go see her.” She added.

Sooga silently nodded and placed a hand on Ayame’s shoulder. “Thank you for saving her.” He commented and headed off to the room where Michiko was staying.

He silently took a seat on the chair by her bed as he waited patiently for her to wake up.

Two hours passed and Michiko stirred from her sleep, with the headache thankfully being gone.

“You’re awake.” Sooga noted.

“Lord Sooga?” She asked. The room was dark but his voice came from a corner somewhere in the room.

He turned on a lantern and brought the chair closer to her bed.

“Please, there’s no need for formalities anymore. You’re a blademaster now and can call me Sooga.”

“A blademaster?” She asked herself.

“What do you remember from a few days ago?” Sooga asked her.

Michiko recalled the events of the last time she was at the battlefield. “I remember rescuing the missing foot soldiers and fighting Gerudo warriors. Then I fought a lynel and the battle went on for what seemed like an eternity. And then I remembered losing so much blood from my injuries and then you were there, and then everything went black.”

“You don’t remember killing the lynel?” Sooga asked, and Michiko shook her head.

“You cut its throat and I called out for you and you looked at me then collapsed. I managed to catch you before you could hit your head.” Sooga explained.

“Thank you, Sooga.”

He nodded. “I’m just- I’m glad it wasn’t too late when I found you.”

Michiko was suddenly thankful for the darkness in the room as her cheeks turned slightly pink.

“You should get some rest. The master is planning a ceremony for rank promotion.” Sooga commented as he suddenly stood up and headed towards the door.

“Sooga, wait.”

He turned to face her. “Yes, Michiko?”

“Thank you so much for saving my life when I was bleeding out.”

Now it was his turn for him to become flustered. “I’m glad you didn’t die on us. Good night, Michiko.”

“Good night, Sooga.”

And the lantern was turned off once more.

Ayame finally discharged Michiko with a “no strenuous activity” rule and the young woman thanked her and headed off to her own room to get ready for today’s meeting.

Master Kohga called a meeting with the blademasters in the evening and Michiko arrived at the nick of time. The other blademasters were already there and Yoshida rushes towards her as soon as everyone catches sight of her.

“Michiko, I’m so happy to hear that you’re joining our ranks.”

“Thank you, Yoshida.” Michiko laughed breathlessly. “I appreciate it.”

“Yoshida, let her come in already so she can be promoted.” His twin brother, Matsuda called out.

“Right, sorry.”

Michiko waved him off. “It’s okay, I’m so glad to be welcomed among you all with open arms.”

Inside the room, the other blademasters are kneeled down with Yoshida and Matsuda joining them. There are a few lanterns lighting up the room since night has already fallen. Ayame, kneeling at the front, waves at Michiko and points at the spot next to her, silently calling for her to join. Michiko takes the spot next to her.

Master Kohga arrives and everyone immediately bows to his presence and remains so until he sits.

“Thank you all for coming tonight, please stand up.” Kohga says.

Everyone stands up and Michiko’s hands suddenly become clammy as she nervously fists the fabric of her casual wear since she had yet to get her blademaster uniform.

“Before we begin the festivities, I would like to take the time to thank all of you for your hard work over the last few months. The last time we all gathered, we had seven blademasters among us. Now as winter’s about to begin, I’m glad to see all of you still with us and a new member joining us,” even though the master had his mask on, Michiko could tell he was wearing a warm smile on his face. “Michiko, thank you for joining us today. You have successfully completed the requirement to become of the blademaster rank. Lord Sooga and Ren have testified on your behalf that you managed to rescue our missing foot soldiers and defeat a gold maned lynel all on your own.”

Michiko stood up as straight as possible. “Yes, Master Kohga. I beheaded the monster and managed to keep our missing foot soldiers safe and sound.”

Master Kohga nods once. “Wonderfully done, Michiko. I would now like to formally invite you to become one of the high ranking members in the Yiga Clan. Do you accept?”

Michiko couldn’t wait to share the news of her promotion back home.

“I accept, Master Kohga.”

The master beams at her and Michiko lets out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. Loud whoops of congratulations are heard from the other blademasters as they join Michiko in on the celebration.

“Congratulations, Michiko.” Matsuda says.

“Thank you so much.” She smiled.

“Wait, before you all leave to celebrate, there’s one more thing I've got to share.” Master Kohga says. “Lord Sooga, Lady Michiko please do stay for a moment.”

Sooga and Michiko take a seat while everyone else files out and once the doors are closed, the master turns to look at both of them.

“Now, with the possibility of the princess awakening her power anytime now and her little knight acquiring the sword, we have a duty to patrol aside from the regular missions. You’ll be assigned a patrol area in the Faron Region to watch over as well as be paid generously for this. Sooga, I’m very confident in your abilities and believe you are a very strong blademaster. However, the threat of the royal family continues to grow. And realistically speaking, it would be unmanageable for one blademaster to tend to. For that reason, I will be assigning Michiko to join you in watching over and patrolling. Will this arrangement be okay for you two?”

Michiko briefly glanced at Sooga who wastes no time in answering.

“Certainly not, Master Kohga. I’ll be honored to watch over Faron with Michiko.”

She nodded in agreement. “The plan is very strategic, Master. I’ll gladly accept the proposition.”

Master Kohga clapped enthusiastically. “Perfect. I’m sure you two will make a fine team. From time to time you’ll still have separate tasks but until then, you two will be working together.”

Michiko nodded once again. “I understand, Master. Thank you.”

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Chapter 8: Make Your Choice

——————

familiar faces resurface as new enemies loom in the horizon.

cw: mild violence.

Michiko and Ren were once again patrolling but this time they were sent to Gerudo Desert by the master since there were reported sightings of the young princess. It was one of the hottest afternoons ever, despite that fall was basically around the corner and snow would usually start covering some areas of Gerudo by then.

As soon as the reported sightings of the princess got back to Master Kohga, he wanted everyone to be on the lookout. He also notified Ren and Michiko that Sooga would eventually join them in the task, as soon as he could. There had been signs of activity from the kingdom around the Gerudo region but nothing was confirmed yet. So there they were, patrolling with a tight grip on their weapons as they carefully scanned the surrounding areas.

“Kuni, wait…” Ren puts an arm up for her to listen. As stealthy as they were trained to be, pebbles crackled as someone approached them. They both turned to face the direction the sound came from, ready to attack when the enemy revealed themselves. And instead of an enemy, it was the last person Michiko expected to see.

“Yuto?” She asked surprised.

“Michiko?” He responded.

Michiko lowered her sickle when the Yiga boy she trained with revealed himself fully — the reason why she recognized him was because he always insisted on not wearing any sleeves on his uniform to show off his “muscles.” And it was weird to describe him as a “boy” since their training. He’s grown a bit taller than herself and his hair was tied up in a bun.

“What are you doing here?” She asked.

“I received word from Master Kohga that tonight I’d be joining in a patrol since I was in the area.” Yuto explained.

“You must be the additional support I requested. I’m Lord Ren.”

Yuto bows to him. “My name is Yuto. I’m here to support you, Lord Ren. Please direct me to where you would like me stationed.”

If Michiko was honest, she was surprised to find out that he requested additional help, considering that their patrol group was rather large, coming at around ten footsoldiers, herself, and Lord Ren. She was even more surprised at Yuto’s respectful attitude, given that in their first encounter he was a cocky teenager. Lord Ren tilted his head for a few seconds. And while it looked like he was stretching his neck to the average observer, Lord Ren was actually using his hearing to study his surroundings.

“Kuni, take Yuto and head towards the clearing on the East side of the mountain. That’s where our footsoldiers reported seeing suspicious activity. Head back to the base when the sun comes up. We’ll go over observations with the rest of the unit then.”

Michiko bowed, “I’ll see you at dawn, Lord Ren.”

She turned on her heel and motioned for Yuto to follow her. They both head east, following along towards the clearing where Ren pointed. When they began their investigations, other footsoldiers cited that they saw Gerudo women leading the young princess into their village.

“Are you really Lord Ren’s apprentice?” Yuto suddenly asked.

“Yes.. I’ve been training with Lord Ren for quite some time now.”

“Cool!”

Along the way, the two of them chat while making sure that no one from the Royal Family or their allies were around Karusa Valley or planning to attack them. He explained that in the last two years he had progressed to the rank of captain for the foot soldiers who specialized in archery. And if he hadn’t broken his collarbone that he’d be a blademaster by now.

Seems like the cocky side of himself hasn’t changed. Michiko thought. And for the rest of the walk, he asked how she became Lord Ren’s apprentice and begs to hear all the details.

To their disappointment, the investigation bore fruitless unfortunately. And like Lord Ren instructed, they head back to the base first thing in the morning. Everyone reports the same thing, no suspicious activity the rest of the evening or any sign of the princess. Ren frowned underneath his mask but dismissed everyone back to the hideout, telling them to rest up and eat well because the next day, they’d come back to investigate again tomorrow afternoon.

Michiko and Lord Ren stay behind and as soon as she is about to ask him about Sooga, Yuto runs up to the two of them.

“Lord Ren, please wait!” He calls out.

“Hm?” Ren turns to where he was called from.

“If I may, could I ask you a few questions on the way to the hideout?”

Lord Ren nodded as the three of them continued walking. Michiko felt awkward walking in between them while they talked and she had to listen in to their conversation. Yuto pesters Ren about his training methods and lord Ren answers to the best of his ability. He’s always been more of a show than tell guy, so it’s a painful conversation for him.

Once they arrive at the hideout, Yuto bows and thanks Lord Ren for answering his questions, finally leaving the poor blademaster alone. Michiko waves goodbye as he walks away. When he heads over to the direction where his room is, Michiko turns to leave too but Lord Ren stops her.

“How do you know that footsoldier, Kuni?”

“I met him during the first training to join the clan. And for the next few days of training, he accompanied me.”

Lord Ren hummed in response.

The next day during patrol, it’s the same thing. Lord Ren sends Michiko and Yuto up the mountain again. Both of them investigate the mountainside and when they find nothing, they head back to join everyone else. While on the way back, they talk about battle strategy or about life in general. Once again, no clues. The cycle repeats for about four days. When Lord Ren was about to dismiss everyone, he noticed that a few foot soldiers were missing from the morning debrief. Despite everyone’s growing suspicion, Lord Ren orders everyone to go back to the hideout and rest, including Michiko and Yuto; while he stays out for the rest of the night and heads east.

When dusk comes around and Lord Ren never shows up to give directions, Michiko’s stomach drops. She tries to reason with herself though. He’s one of the strongest blademasters in the clan and he probably found something and is looking into it. With Michiko being his apprentice, the unit looks at her for assignments.

“We’ll stick to the same pairs we’ve been in. Lord Ren headed east last night, so that’ll be our main focus area. Everyone begin on your typical side of the mountain, near the base of possible, and make your way towards there. We’ll steadily make our way up and hopefully trap whoever has the other missing foot soldiers. If you see any signs, anything out of the ordinary, alert me.”

The unit all nod in agreement, and everyone sets out.

“These tracks.. there was someone here.” Yuto murmured.

Michiko frowned at the footprints left behind while he kneels over to study them carefully. Yuto was a skilled hiker and also knew his way around almost all of Hyrule. If he said something was wrong, Michiko would believe him.

“What is it?” Michiko asked.

“These look like the footprints of the shoes Gerudo people wear. And they tend to stay away from this area unless they’ve been watching us and they’re the ones who are holding the other foot soldiers captive.”

Michiko straightened up as she looked around. There’s no way this was a theory right? She asked herself. The two of them hurry to follow along the trail of footprints. About ten minutes later, Michiko gasps and stops in her tracks. Yuto, who was walking behind her and not paying attention, roughly runs into her back. And just as he’s about to say something, she holds a finger up to her mask where her lips would be. Silently pointing up ahead where two Gerudo women stood with their backs to them. And Yuto motions for her to follow.

“Michiko, look.”

Yuto points ahead where the missing foot soldiers are, held captive in a cell.

“Looks like the cell takes away their ability to teleport away..”

The two of them go over how to approach, but are interrupted by another foot soldier appearing before them.

“Status update from Lod Ren, he’s engaged in combat with a high rank Gerudo woman.” He reports.

Yuto and Michiko look over at each other.

“Where?!” Michiko hurriedly asks.

“The Kara Kara Bazaar.” With that being said, the foot soldier disappears, dropping ofuda cards behind.

“You go. I’ll figure out how to rescue the captive foot soldiers.” Michiko tells Yuto.

Yuto nods once and disappears as well, teleporting himself to the Kara Kara Bazaar.

Michiko silently climbs a cliff as she takes a look at her surroundings and how many Gerudo soldiers she’ll have to fight on her own while also making sure that she keeps the foot soldiers safe.

There were the two Gerudo warriors that she saw a few moments ago, and another one standing by the cell and two more a little further with their arms crossed.

While silently planning how to approach, Michiko remembered an entry she read from the journals that Einosuke let her have. About attacking from a distance:

“Precision is very important when it comes to long distance attacks whether it’s with arrows or kunai. Make sure to keep your hands steady and your wrist loose when you’re throwing kunai at your intended target…”

Michiko straightened up as she threw a kunai at the Gerudo warrior standing by the holding cell and jumped down, making sure to land by the cell to keep the foot soldiers out of harm’s way.

“The Yiga are here!” The Gerudo woman that she threw the kunai at yelled.

The other four Gerudo warriors quickly reacted and rushed towards Michiko as her fist collided with the Gerudo woman’s jaw, rendering her unconscious.

“We’ve been waiting for your kind to come rescue the other Sheikah traitors.” One of the Gerudo women said.

Michiko scoffed at her comment. Sheikah traitors. As if their allies, the royal family didn’t start torturing them first and driving them away from their own homes and taking lives away.

“I’m Aveil.” The Gerudo woman said.

“I don’t care.” Michiko replied. She wasn’t here for civility or to make conversation with enemies.

While Aveil tried to distract Michiko by attempting to make conversation, another warrior went in for an attack but Michiko briefly disappeared and slashed her in the arm with the demon carver. The unnamed warrior cried out in pain as blood dripped out of her arm.

“Let. Them. Go.” Michiko warned slowly.

Aveil shook her head. “We promised chief Urbosa that we’d make examples out of them.”

“You will try.” Michiko replied.

The two women engage in combat as Aveil pulls out her scimitar sword and manages to slash Michiko on her forearm. The other two Gerudo warriors try to attack Michiko from behind, but the foot soldiers that are being held captive find a way to make themselves useful.

With their supply of just arrows without the bows, they make sure to throw the arrows with enough force to impale their opponents. Michiko makes sure to stay nearby the cell to keep them safe from any incoming attack.

“Just let me take them to Lady Urbosa and your life will be spared.” Aveil stated as her sword clashed with Michiko’s demon carver.

“Never. I won’t ever leave anyone from my family behind.” Michiko retorted.

Aveil sweeps her leg, making Michiko stumble and fall and as she raises her sword to deliver the killing blow, Michiko outstretched her hand and she sends Aveil and the other two Gerudo warriors into the wall and they hit the side of the cliff hard; they’re out like a light. For a few seconds, she studied her own hands, wondering where that came from.

Groaning, Michiko slowly stands up and heads over to where Aveil is knocked out and snatched the keys of the cell from her waist, then releases the captive foot soldiers.

“We should go assist Lord Ren as soon as possible. He’s engaged in combat with a high ranking Gerudo warrior at the Kara Kara Bazaar.”

The foot soldiers Michiko just rescued nod once and they teleport themselves to Kara Kara Bazaar while she stays behind to tend to her minor wounds.

Once she’s done and Michiko descends the cliff, she prepares to teleport herself to the Kara Kara Bazaar when an all familiar roar echoes behind her.

A lynel. And it’s a gold maned lynel. The territorial monster charges itself towards Michiko as she pulls out her demon carver.

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Genocide of all humanity

Genocide of your reality

Genocide of all humanity

Genocide of your reality

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Jennifer’s Body 2009, dir. Karyn Kusama

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Chapter 7: Nothing Else Matters

——————

Michiko accompanies Lord Ren on a mission. A familiar face resurfaces. And more OC’s are introduced.

“Kuni, get up. You’re joining me on a patrol today.”

Ren called as he knocked on her door. Michiko groaned as she sat up in the bed, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes. She let out a grumble to let him know that she was up as she heard him retreat down the hall outside her door. Michiko knew better than to try to talk him out of joining him on the patrol so she complied and started changing from her sleep wear to the Yiga uniform.

After a long day and night, the sun was beginning to set when Ren announced that patrol hours are officially over. Since his patrol area around the Tabantha area, sometimes other young Yiga would join in on the patrols while disguised as normal civilians. When he dismisses them all back to the hideout and only Ren and Michiko remain, she contemplates asking him if they can stop for food before they make their way back to the hideout.

“Kuni, let's get going. There’s an annual blade master meeting tonight.” Ren stated.

Confusion washes over Michiko’s face as she raises an eyebrow and glances over at him. “A blade master meeting?”

Ren started walking away before she could even ask her next question. “But I’m not a blade master. Why am I coming?”

He’s silent for a few seconds as she catches up with him and he looks over at her. “Master Kohga has asked for an update on your training.”

Anxiety begins eating at her as they make their way to the hideout.

They both arrived at the hideout a little later than everyone else. The other blade masters were all standing in a line, waiting for the master.

“I’m so sorry, my fellow blade masters. We were patrolling and left as soon as we could. Excuse our tardiness.” Ren apologized.

“Hello, Ren.” A woman about his height greeted him. “Who’s we?” She asked, slightly tilting her head in confusion.

All eyes land on Michiko as she emerges from behind Ren, with a shy wave. Her eyes immediately catch sight of a familiar horned mask but this time there’s a crack on the mask.

“Michiko?!” Sooga suddenly asked.

“Sooga?” She responded.

“You two have met before?” Ren asked.

“Yes,” Michiko replied to Ren’s question. “I aided him on a mission quite a while ago.”

“Ren, who’s that?” Another blade master asked as he pointed over at her.

“My apprentice, Michiko. As I said before, we were finishing patrolling and as soon as we were done, we came here for the meeting.”

Michiko was surprised that he left out the part of why she’s at the meeting. After all, only blade masters are allowed to be at these annual meetings and the other ones know that too. But before anyone else could get another word in, Master Kohga arrived.

“Thank you for coming to the annual blade master meeting.” Kohga says.

“Ren, a word please.” The meeting had ended and the master called for Ren. As Michiko was about to join them, Master Kohga waved a hand. “Not you, Michiko.”

She nodded and remained in place in the hall where the other blade masters were. During the meeting, she was allowed to stay. Nothing peculiar happened other than the blade masters updating their ongoing investigations on finding the princess’ knight, the status of their patrolling areas. Not all the blade masters had apprenticeships other than Ren and the woman who had greeted him earlier.

Michiko was pulled out of her thoughts when she felt a hand being placed on her shoulder.

“Michiko.. it’s great to see you again. How long has it been, two years?”

She turned around to see Sooga and a few other blade masters. Their masks were off as Michiko pulled hers off as well. They all looked like they were in their late teens to early twenties.

“The pleasure is all mine.” She smiled at him. “And yes it’s been nearly two years since we completed that mission.”

“Lord Sooga, will you introduce us?” The woman from earlier excitedly requested.

“Yes, Michiko, these are a few of my fellow blade masters. This is Ayame,” he said referring to the woman, “and those two over there are Matsuda and Yoshida. Twin brothers that I personally trained.” The twins looked over at her and one of them waved while the other silently observed.

“Don’t worry, Matsuda has always been more reserved. Even with me.” Sooga slightly chuckled.

“How did you become an apprentice for Lord Ren? He has never been keen on finding one.” Yoshida asked.

Michiko awkwardly scratched the back of her neck, “it was Master Kohga who told him about me.”

The twins glanced at each other as Ayame spoke up, “I definitely look forward to having another woman join us.”

Michiko smiled as Ren emerged from the master’s study.

“Tomorrow we have more training to do.” He announced glancing over at Michiko.

“Ren, you must join the three of us for a late dinner before we all depart to do our tasks.” Sooga suggests. “Michiko, you as well.”

She raised her eyebrows as Michiko looked over at Ren. First she was able to stay in for their meeting and now she might join them for dinner? She never would’ve expected her day to be so.. eventful.

“Okay.” Ren sighed and gave in as the six of them headed to the dining room.

Despite popular belief, bananas weren’t the only thing in the clan’s menu, as the Yiga’s chef brought out bowls of harusame soup for each of them. And besides the six of them, another blade master who went by Ryuji, joined them. Michiko tried to greet him at the beginning of dinner, but he just glanced at her before turning away.

At one end of the table sat Ren and at the other end sat Matsuda. Michiko, Sooga, and Yoshida on one side, with Ayame and Ryuji facing her. Michiko sat in between Sooga and Yoshida, with Sooga closest to Matsuda and Ayame closest to Ren. Everyone ate and chatted idly while Michiko simply observed. With all of them knowing each other so well, she felt a bit out of place being in the middle of them.

Eventually Sooga started making conversation with Michiko since their first interaction.

“So how’s your training with Lord Ren going?” Sooga asked.

For some reason, Michiko didn’t feel the need to hide anything from him so she told him the truth.

“It’s a lot harder than I thought to join all of you among the blade master ranks.” Michiko admitted.

Sooga hummed in agreement. “It’s difficult to get your body to get used to the techniques but once you master them, it's as simple as breathing.”

“Did you have difficulties ranking up?” She asked.

“At first, yes. But that was because I was nearly starving to death when I found the Master and he took me under his wing. I was just a fourteen year old boy putting too much pressure on myself and trying to rush my recovery process. But over time and with training, I was able to defeat a golden lynel and that’s when I was given the rank of blade master.”

At the age of fourteen, he was already a blade master.

“I just… I just feel like I’m falling behind with me being nineteen years old and still being an apprentice.” Michiko sighed.

“But you made quite the progress. With your hard work, you went from being a Yiga captain to an apprentice to a blade master. Lord Ren is also one of our strongest warriors.” Sooga praised.

Michiko’s cheeks turned pink. “Actually… Master Kohga told Lord Ren about me after I punched a fellow captain. Because he sees potential in me.”

Sooga raised an eyebrow, “why’d you do it?”

“Because he said that women in the clan should just stick to being wives or being nurses and that we shouldn’t be out there on the battlefield.”

The two of them were so engrossed in their conversation and for a moment, it felt like nothing else mattered.

“How’s the engaged life going for you two?” Ryuji asked Ren and Ayame.

They’re engaged? Michiko thought.

Sooga must’ve noticed her surprised expression. “Teenage friends to lovers who’re set to marry. They met since they joined the clan at the same time..”

Yoshida must’ve noticed her expression too because he starts speaking to Michiko.

“Tell me, how old are you, Michiko?”

“I’m nineteen.”

“Ah, the same as me. A year younger than Lord Sooga.” Yoshida smiled.

“Do you have a significant other waiting for you back home?” Yoshida playfully asks. “Or a girlfriend even? Surely a pretty girl like you wouldn’t have any trouble finding a suitor.”

Michiko shakes her head as she blushes, “no, nobody has caught my interest yet.”

“Yoshida, leave the poor girl alone. Not everyone needs to be married off at a young age like you.”

Yoshida huffs at Ayame’s comment. “I’m just saying. She’s a beautiful young lady, anyone would ask to court her.” He suddenly smirks and looks over at Sooga. “Right Sooga? Wouldn’t Kuni be a beautiful bride?”

Sooga regretted not having his mask on to conceal his face as it turned red and he stuttered for an answer. “I-… yes. Wait, I didn’t mean it like that. She’s beautiful but just not for me.”

Yoshida snickered.

“She’s beautiful but she should focus on her Yiga duties first. Michiko, you’re still young and have plenty of time to pick a suitor.” Sooga settles on that response at last. His cheeks were as red as their uniform.

Michiko giggled to herself. He always seemed so calm and collected during their interactions. Never this flustered.

“Are you romantically involved with someone, Lord Sooga?”

“No.” He quickly replied.

“Are you interested?” Yoshida asked with a shit eating grin.

Now it was Michiko’s turn to get flustered. “What? N- no. I was just curious.” She chuckled breathlessly.

An awkward silence falls between her and Sooga. And everyone else around them hollers and cackles.

“There’s early training tomorrow, so you should get plenty of rest, Kuni.” Ren suggested.

Michiko had never been so grateful for Lord Ren intervening.

“Right.” She responded.

The two of them stand up.

“I should go to bed too.” Ayame said.

“I too, must leave.” Sooga added.

Suddenly everyone was getting up from the dining table. Before Michiko makes her way to the hall where her room was, Ayame stops her.

“Good luck with your training under Lord Ren. When you join us in the blade master ranks, I look forward to having another woman to talk to.” Ayame said enthusiastically.

“Of course.” Michiko smiled at her.

Since Ayame is a blade master, she joins Lord Ren as the two of them walk off down the hall.

“I meant to congratulate you for being in the apprentice rank now. Best of luck with your training and I hope to see you join us in the next blade master meeting among our ranks.”

“Only one can dream.” Michiko whispered.

He turns to leave but Yoshida had other ideas. He’s standing behind Sooga and reaches forward with his massive arms, pulling you in for a hug, essentially squishing Michiko into Sooga’s chest.

“Such a great time! Kuni, it was nice meeting you. I look forward to seeing you again.”

Yoshida released them both and threw an arm around Sooga’s shoulders as they headed down the hall.

Michiko shook her head and smiled. She was beginning to get attached to everyone in the clan.

taglist: @nottheheidi @swordsofdevotion

[swordsofdevotion]

── ࣪˖ ࣪ ⊹ ࣪ ˖ ──

You matter.

You are worthy. You are pretty. You have a great purpose. You are enough. You are valuable. You are a gift. You deserve to be safe and happy.

　　 ˚ 　　　 . ✧　　 　　˚ 　　　 . ✧　　 　　˚ 　　　 .

[swordsofdevotion]

All i need ♡

[swordsofdevotion]

Georg Rueter

1875-1966

[swordsofdevotion]

Chapter 6: The Apprentice

——————

Michiko starts her training with Lord Ren.

Mentions of injuries and disabilities. Slight angst and comfort. A new OC is mentioned.

“Michiko, you’ll still receive tasks to complete but they’ll be much scarce now. You’ll be focusing on your training with Lord Ren. In the meantime, you’ll be joining him in his area of patrol.” Master Kohga stated and she nodded.

“Well…” the master’s masked face turns to both of them. “Now get going, I’ve got some napping to do.” He said waving them off wholeheartedly.

“And Lord Ren, make sure to update me on Michiko’s progress.”

“Of course, Master, I’ll keep you posted.”

The two of them left Master Kohga’s study as they started making their way to the training ground in silence. He’s rather a quiet man, so she’s not sure if Michiko should make conversation. She chooses to remain silent, deciding that if conversation will happen, it should happen naturally.

With Lord Ren taking Michiko as his apprentice and her tasks dwindling for the time being, she was hardly ever home and spent most of her time at the hideout training. The master has given her sleeping quarters along with another young woman who was training to be a nurse to work alongside Ayame, the clan’s primary medic. And Michiko moved her things into her new living space.

“We’ll continue training tomorrow morning.” Lord Ren commented as she nodded.

Without another word, Ren made his way to the west wing of the hideout where the blade masters' sleeping quarters were. Once alone in the hallway, Michiko faced the door and quietly walked inside. Her roommate was already asleep as she made her way to her side of the room and changed from her Yiga uniform into sleepwear. Once she’s changed, she brushes her teeth then gets into her futon and shuts her eyes.

“I hope I can do this..” she mumbled before drifting to sleep.

In the next few months since Michiko started training with Lord Ren, she has:

sprained her ankle.

improved at using a bow and arrows (even though it wasn’t her main goal).

She started learning how to use the earthwake technique.

And in those three months, she felt like she wasn’t moving forward. Both physically and mentally.

Her vicious sickle strikes his sword as Ren was slightly pushed backwards but not enough to take him down. Before Michiko could react, Ren responds with an attack of his own that knocks her down. She groans in frustration as she gets back up on her feet.

“Anticipate the next move. Use the blocking techniques I’ve taught you.” Ren instructs. “You’re not thinking about strategy. I can tell.”

Ren charges for another incoming attack, and she instinctively raises her vicious sickle to stop the strike and protect herself from the blow. Once his attack is blocked, she charges at her master, managing to strike him in the stomach with the butt of her sickle. He takes the blow head on and grabs her, shoving her side and sending Michiko to the floor. She rolls with a lack of grace before standing up. Her face had smacked the ground and she could feel blood dripping down her lips when she stood back up.

Michiko raised her vicious sickle above her head, as she landed a quick slash on Ren. While she’s not aiming to kill, she at least aims to try and hit him. The two blades clash and there’s a loud screech of metal.

Lord Ren had anticipated her doing that. The end of his sword comes up and smacks Michiko right in the stomach. She’s once again on the floor, panting and unable to muster the strength to get back up. Ren lowers his weapon as he walks over to her.

“We’re done for today.”

“Eat something.”

Lord Ren joined Michiko today as the food was placed in front of them. She grabbed her plate and started eating, chewing slowly. Today’s events weigh heavily in her mind, and a comfortable silence falls between them as he pours two cups of tea and passes one to her.

“Thank you, Master Ren.”

“Michiko… I can tell something’s troubling you. What is it?”

She exhaled, trying to come up with an answer for him.

“I’m worried that I’m not improving… even with your training, Master.” Michiko replied, hoping he’d buy it.

“That’s not the truth… you and I both know it.”

She stared wide eyed at him, putting down the spoonful of soup she was about to take.

“You struck me today and you haven’t been able to do that until recently. I know you’re aware of this but I’ll ask again. What troubles you?”

She pushed the contents in her soup absentmindedly.

“Nothing…”

Lord Ren frowns as he looks ahead and takes a spoonful of his soup. For a moment, Michiko wonders if he can sense her body language.

His silence makes her cringe internally before finally answering the truth.

“I received a letter from y-your parents. She felt odd using the word “our” after being away from Lord Ren for a very long time. Even though at some point, they did grow up together and had a sibling-like bond.

Ren stroked his chin. “I see.. is that why you were so sloppy during our training session today?”

Michiko scoffed at his statement. Of course, both Ren and Michiko both knew why she had moved into the hideout. Master Kohga had given him a task to help her improve physically and mentally, lest she gets kicked off the clan. In the time she had been training underneath Lord Ren, he was very much aware of how his parents wanted both of them to become the greatest blade masters. And the pressure to live up to their expectations. With that being said, opening up to him or anyone for that matter was very hard. And the topic of the letter was an even harder topic for her to touch on.

Sure, they were kind and generous with Michiko but how would she be able to answer their letter especially when it’s been months and she was still not a blade master.

“And what did the letter say?” Ren asked.

“Not much..” she lied once again.

His lips pressed into a thin line and she sighed knowing that there was no point to beat around the bush.

“They wrote how happy they are to find out that I’m your apprentice and that you’re training me. And they’re expecting my announcement of being a blade master soon. They don’t show it outwardly but I can tell they’re losing hope in me rising up the ranks. Especially because it’s been two years since I joined the clan and haven’t become a blade master yet.”

Ren hums and she hopes that this is a sign the conversation is over. She felt rather awkward spilling out everything to Lord Ren especially since it was his parents she was talking about. But thankfully he understood what the dynamic was like at home and what she meant — especially when he was finally of age to start his training to join the clan.

“Do you wish to become a blade master?” Ren suddenly asks.

“Yes, it would make them proud.” Michiko answered.

“But do you wish for it?”

Michiko slightly tilted her head in confusion.

“I don’t follow.”

“You answered that you would make your- our parents proud. But pride is not why someone becomes a blade master. They do it to protect each other and their clan. Especially when we’ve been oppressed. Do you wish to do that?”

For the first time ever, someone asked Michiko why she wanted to rise up the ranks.”

“I… I’m not sure if I could turn down the offer or let alone get kicked off the clan.”

“Why is that?”

Michiko shifts in her seat as she pushes her bowl of soup away from her and takes a long sip of her tea. She tries to hide from his gaze even though Michiko knows that he actually can’t see her.

“… Michiko?”

She looks away, trying to blink away the tears that threat to spill for her eyes.

“Grief never seems to leave me.” She answered softly.

Lord Ren turns to face in her direction. “They caused you this suffering, didn’t they?”

Michiko knew he wasn’t referring to their parents but rather her biological family — the ones who left her to fend for herself nineteen years ago.

Her hands fall from the table to grip the fabric on her uniform.

“Why did you join the clan?” He asked her.

“Because I want to protect my family especially when your- our parents could’ve left me out there nineteen years ago but they didn’t. If it wasn’t for them, I don’t know where I’d be. Probably dead.” Michiko shuddered at the thought.

Suddenly, it feels like old times like it’s easy to talk to Ren. She takes a deep breath before continuing. “Even though I may not be their biological daughter, it still means a great deal to me that they took me in. And I want them to feel that they raised someone worthy of not just being their adopted daughter, but also of being part of the clan. I want to rise up the ranks to pay them back for everything they did for me and to protect my family within the clan. That’s why I feel the need to rise above.”

Michiko paused, looking down at the long forgotten cup of tea sitting in front of her. When she looks up, Ren beckons her to continue, humming softly.

“I was meant to be a sacrifice to the family I was born into. When I was born, I had this strange power and because of it, I was originally going to be given away as Lord Ganon’s servant. And I don’t know how or who took me away from there the day before I was going to be sacrificed. But it’s not like I asked for these powers. It’s not like I asked the goddess for this- this curse.” She commented and gently flicked her wrist as her eyes started to glow a soft hue of red.

Michiko looks away, returning to the tea and tears slowly roll down her cheeks.

“Michiko.” He starts gently. “Just because you were born into that family, doesn’t make you a bad Sheikah. On the contrary, learn how to wield your power and use it for good things. And you’re a part of this family now. Of this clan. The royal family already put our ancestors through so much and the clan, we don’t do that to each other. Once you’re in it, we all protect each other. When I joined, I knew exactly what I was getting myself into and even though I’m now blind, protecting my clan is something I’d do over and over again.”

Michiko doesn’t look up but she���s attentively listening.

“We’ll train and help you get through the grief.”

A/N: guess who’s returning next chapter? 🤭

Taglist: @swordsofdevotion @nottheheidi @icantgetnosatiisfaction

[swordsofdevotion]

I like to draw him when there’s nothing going on at work lol

[swordsofdevotion]

Lord Sooga a la woodcut print!

[swordsofdevotion]

Chapter 3: Lord Sooga

———————

- Michiko and Sooga meet for the first time.

- mentions of torture and mild violence, more original characters are introduced. Brief descriptions of genocide.

When Michiko appeared in the Faron Woods, she realized that she didn’t teleport herself to where the rest of the Yiga were, so she started running her way further into the woods — she was running so fast she felt like her lungs had been lit on fire. And by the time she spotted a banana tree a little further down, she decided to walk the rest of the way while scouting her surroundings and keeping a hand resting on her vicious sickle as she approached the tree.

“There have been reports of some of our members going missing in action. And as far as we know, the Royal guards are behind this.” A deep voice behind her stated.

Michiko flinched and turned around, standing before her was the owner of the deep voice.

“Good grief, you scared me.”

“Apologies, I am Lord Sooga, right hand man of the master.”

Although he was taller than herself, he didn’t sound that much older than her, maybe a year or even two. The two of them walked side by side as she introduced herself.

“Michiko. Foot soldier rank.”

“You must be the backup I sent that other foot soldier for. Follow me.” He spun around and started making his way deeper into the woods.

“The other foot soldiers are scouting for information on any leads that can help us find the missing foot soldiers. Did the footsoldier I sent brief you on the details?”

“No,” Michiko said, shaking her head. “Have you come across any of them? From the royal family I mean.”

“Yes. And there might be royal guards around here.” Sooga added as she gulped.

He spoke so casually, yet it wasn’t enough to calm her. From what Einosuke had told her was that the Royal family and other Sheikah were enemies of the Yiga Clan. Due to the fact that about 10,000 years ago, the Sheikah were allies of the Royal family. And while they were preparing for the first Great Calamity, their advanced technology came to be viewed as the threat to the kingdom. Therefore putting them at odds with the King and his people. Soon after, they were exiled.

Families were separated, homes were destroyed, some of them were even tortured and killed. So the ones that remained fled and remained hidden in the shadows. Even to this day.

“Is it possible that the King might’ve come along to capture them himself?” She asked.

“As far as my investigations have led me to believe, no. I believe only the guards might’ve done this on their own accord. The King is apparently focused on training the Princess to awaken her sealing powers.”

“Are any more Yiga coming to assist us?” Michiko asked.

Sooga shook his head, no. “The foot soldier I sent to come to get you informed me that only one of the newest recruits was going to be coming. Which would be you. We’re going to have to fight valiantly if we want to come out victorious from this battle.”

“We’re going to have to follow the tracks I’ve found. Keep your eyes open for danger. I believe the guards are most likely planning an ambush, so you’ll need to pay extra attention to your surroundings.” Sooga advised.

Michiko nodded in affirmation, as her hand rested on her vicious sickle. Both her and Sooga walk silently through the woods. Eventually, they reach a pathway where there’s fresh footprints stamped on the dirt. She silently follows Sooga, watching over her shoulder for any signs of enemy attacks. They both follow along the trail before he sticks out his arm to stop her. He points to the ground as the footprints abruptly stop near a waterfall.

“Where could they have gone?” Michiko wondered.

“I’m not sure, taking them back to the castle wouldn’t have been the wisest thing.” Sooga responded.

Michiko looked around from where she originally arrived. There’s nothing but trees surrounding them and with the sun setting, it’s almost hard to see. Suddenly, a figure emerged from behind the trees as she pulled out her sickle in front of her in a defensive stance.

“Lord Sooga, look ahead!” Michiko called out.

A lone Royal army captain stood in front of them with a footsoldier in his clutches. “Forgive me, Lord Sooga.” The foot soldier said. “They tortured me.”

Michiko clenched her right hand into a fist as the footsoldier fell to his knees. They really are cruel people.

“Oh, look! It’s more Yiga scum to torture.” The captain said as he studied both of them carefully.

“It’s another young foot soldier and a blademaster. Hopefully soon we’ll put an end to your kind for once and for all. We’ve got two more!” The captain called out as two Hyrulean soldiers emerged.

As the wounded footsoldier tried to stand up to make his way towards Sooga and Michiko, the Royal captain stabbed and killed the foot soldier. His body went limp as he dropped forward lifeless. Her stomach lurched at the sight but she remained steady. Michiko wasn’t about to let some royal knights intimidate her.

“Michiko, I’ll take on the royal captain. You take on the other two.” Sooga whispered to her. She nodded as backed away and turned her focus on the two hyrulean soldiers. Sooga takes the chance and charges towards the captain and the two begin dueling. With the ability to disappear at will, Michiko realizes she can use it to her advantage. The two soldiers look around frantically for the young woman that disappeared before their eyes.

She suddenly reappeared a few seconds later with her vicious sickle in hand, and she managed to land a cut across one of the soldiers face.

The royal captain tries to make his way towards her, but Sooga blocks him with his dual swords and the two continue fighting.

While one of the soldiers is holding his face and groaning in pain, Michiko focuses on the other soldier as the two go back and forth with attacks. She unleashes a series of slashes at the soldier and he finally drops dead while the other one is somewhat recovered. The slash on his face was still bleeding profusely but his duty was to take down every Yiga in existence. He was seemingly a bit more experienced than his dead comrade as his attacks were a combination of defense and offensive tactics.

Michiko tried using the disappearing technique once more, but the soldier quickly reacted and knocked her sickle away from her hand and pinned her to the ground. “Playtime is over, you’re coming with us.” The soldier said.

“This is it.” Michiko thought. “I failed and I’m going to end up like that footsoldier who died today.”

She prepared herself for the worst and out of the corner of her eye, Michiko saw Sooga take down the captain as he dropped dead and was now heading in her direction.

“Leave her alone!” Sooga called out as his swords made contact with the soldier and slumped forward, falling on top of her. He quickly pulled the body off of her and helped her stand up.

“Are you okay?” Sooga asked as he looked over at her for any signs of injuries.

“Yes, thank you for saving my life just now.”

The two of them headed over to where the body of the foot soldier lay to take him back to the hideout and give him a proper resting place.

Back at the hideout, after giving the foot soldier a resting place, Michiko finds Sooga sitting outside the hideout by himself.

“His name was Haruto and he always talked about becoming a blademaster someday.” Sooga commented. Michiko frowned as she silently took a seat next to him. “I’m sorry we didn’t save him.”

“It’s not your fault or mine. His body was already failing him when they brought him forward from all the torture he endured. If we would’ve tried to bring him back here, we would’ve only prolonged his suffering. There was nothing we could’ve done.”

The two of them sat in silence for a moment until Sooga spoke up once again. “Michiko, I’m very impressed with your performance today. It would’ve taken me longer to complete the task without your help. You’re a very strong footsoldier.”

Michiko blushed at his compliment and she was thankful that the mask was still on to conceal it. “Thank you, Lord Sooga.”

“I’m curious, who trained you?”

“My adoptive father.. Einosuke. He’s a retired blade master and started training me when I was thirteen years old.” She explained.

“I’ve heard of him before. Both he and his wife were highly regarded when they were active in the clan.”

“They were?”

“Yes. Master Kohga has spoken highly about them. I’ve heard stories about how he was the most formidable warrior in the clan. And now here I am having a conversation with his daughter.”

Michiko chuckled and hummed in agreement.

“Your arm, Michiko.” Sooga suddenly states, almost in a matter of factly way.

Then, the most unexpected thing happened, Sooga slowly pulled his mask off as he assessed the wound on her arm. Behind the mask, she carefully studied his features. Sheikah red irises, dark thick lashes and a set of furrowed thick eyebrows. And his skin looked sunkissed. If anything, he was no more than a year older than her. He’s handsome. She thought.

“You’re going to need stitches, can you remove the upper part of your uniform so I can look at your arm?”

Her eyes widen at the request and she blushes and looks over at Sooga. Then she realizes that her mask is going to have to come off too so she can remove the upper part of her uniform. Thankfully she was wearing another sleeveless top underneath.

Michiko’s mask slowly comes off as she feels her cheeks warm up slightly and she shyly gives Sooga a small smile and he slightly blushes as well?

Thankfully he turns his attention towards her arm and helps her out by mending the wound. Once he finishes, Sooga stands up and looks towards the hideout.

“Um, I’ll be heading inside now, Michiko. Continue to master your skills — hopefully someday we’ll have you among the blademasters. Until we meet again.”

And with that, he heads off into the hideout while Michiko remained in the same spot a little bit longer, then teleported herself back home to her family.

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