#/ and kenshin finally able to see him for who he is. and cherishing that. and learning his tell

[fatewoven]

what did you think was gonna happen?! / riku and ken. their tomfooleries  @eclipsedt​  /  prompt.

From across the room, obvious about his staring, disbelief comes in the form of a slow blink and the slight tilt of his head. “That he’d spit it out.” Or make a displeased face. Yet, as if they hadn’t swapped sugar for salt in the coffee, Toshiro continues to calmly sip at his morning drink while working away at the desk — features composed and sculpted like any other creation of marble. Unflappable, that’s one more word to describe Toshiro as in Kenshin’s books. Leave it to Usagi to set him up so masterfully with a few teasing jibes, and now he’s sure Toshiro will make him eat something sweet as revenge to this failed little prank. “Nothin’ makes him break the act, yeah?”

[chocolate-parfait]

I adore your writing so I was wondering if I could get headcanons for some Ikesen boys (Mitsuhide, Kenshin, and Nobunaga)?

When MC first comes through the wormhole she doesn’t have her son with her and her entire stay is her stressing about it since he is only 5 years old so as soon as the wormhole opens she’s gone before they even blink. They don’t expect her to come back but she does! and with her son this time!

Thank you so much bub! I missed writing for ikesen and honestly, I’m a sucker for anything involving parenting :) Thanks for requesting!

Also I,,, I really went all out for Nobunaga huh

Mc coming back with her son - ikesen headcanons (Mitsuhide, Kenshin & Nobunaga)

words: 2.9k / tw: mentions of injuries and violent behavior / female mc

Mitsuhide

How could possibly someone as clumsy as his little mouse be a mother? Jokingly, he asks you whether it was you taking care of your son or the other way round. He teases you a bit, only enough to gain some strands of information here and there; he may find the excuse that, as the man in charge of security and secrets, that was only part of his job, when in truth he’s actually worried about you. He gathers that your child isn’t with you, and this only serves to fuel his curiosity and worry even more. Nonetheless, he doesn’t pry. You must have your own reasons and secrets, and for once, he's willing to leave you to them.

Once he notices your feelings for him, he becomes sure of the fact that, whether you had a husband or not, he definitely owned your heart no longer. He’s acting more confidently and boldly than before, adding more intensity to his innuendos and subtle flirting. Then, you tell him you’re from the future and you get closer, spending the days basking in each other’s company and usual teasing banters.

...but, oh boy, before he even knows it you’re disappearing in the thickness of the fog and coldness of the rain. If the wormhole had opened when Sasuke had predicted, then you probably would have told him about your plans. You needed more time to mentally prepare yourself, but when Mother Nature decides to open her time-traveling black holes, it's not your choice to make. Mitsuhide will be okay, probably... or at least, you hope so. ok but boy teased you too much, this is his payback

After you're gone Mitsuhide needs a couple of seconds to register what had just happened. In truth, he expected it, kinda (or at least, that’s what he wants to believe), and although it hurts, he’s not one to complain. First off, it could have never worked between you two. He’s... he’s quite the despicable guy, with tons of enemies and secrets. No one in their right mind would want to stay with him for more than 2 minutes, but he had never really cared. Until you came along. And how could he even wish to hold the first place in a mother’s heart? It went without saying that your son was your top priority, and it was fine, it was bound to be that way.

He puts on his habitual facade and moves on with his day, but don’t be fooled; he has no intention of ever forgetting you nor he's completely at peace on the inside. He feels a stinging pain buried deep underneath the arid soil of his heart. The heart wishes what the heart desires, and even when one has resigned to keep a distance from everything it longs for, the pain persists, and it's probably ten times even harsher in the melancholy of it all.

(Hideyoshi obviously catches up on his act, and almost headbutts him out of exasperation when he sees he’s not letting out even the tiniest of sighs)

The days pass by, and Mitsuhide is sure you won’t be coming back. But you do. Once more you catch him by surprise, you destroy his expectations and act outside of the box. And when you finally face him for the first time in what felt like lifetimes, your son by the hand and a wide smile on your face, he stares at you bewildered, wide eyes and an unusual expression of genuine surprise on his features.

“You... you’re really something, little mouse” It’s all he says before striding over to you and hugging you to his chest. His words may conceal them, but you can feel his true feelings in the tightness of his embrace, the thunderous pace of his heartbeat, and the barely noticeable shaking of his sigh.

Maybe he can let himself feel some happiness, after all? Surely, he will have to work extremely hard to protect it, to destroy anyone who might try to bring harm over you, but Mitsuhide is a man of many ways, and he knows how to reach his goal.

Weirdly enough, your child quickly grows fond of Mitsuhide, and it's not long before he starts calling him “Papa”. He's always staring in awe at whatever he does, even the tiniest of tricks will make him giggle excitedly with surprise. On the other hand, your lover is unsurprisingly good with kids. Probably because they're so easy to please and to fool with lies (like a certain someone). He could tell the little boy that you're the Moon princess and the courageous Mitsuhide saved you by a sea of horned monsters, and he would totally believe him without even questioning it first. Maybe it's a family trait?

He does not expect to find himself with a family out of the blue, but by the fond look of his golden orbs, you can tell he's grateful for it. Whenever he kisses you goodbye before going to work in the morning or ruffles your son's hair with playful tenderness, you know it's a silent vow, renewed each time. He's going to do everything in his power to assure your happiness. You've given him a warm place to return to, a spot in the light, love, and gratefulness; protecting it all is the least he could do to return such blessing.

Kenshin

You tell him about the wormhole, about the rain and the lightning, about why you have to go back. Kenshin may have been on his way to healing, but when he hears of your son he recesses 10 steps back. The dark part of himself he was trying so hard to chase away pushes towards him feelings of jealousy and anger (you had, after all, loved another man and bore his child; moreover this man was not by your and your son’s side for whichever reason, leaving you both alone), but the other half of his heart, which loved you so dearly, could not tolerate depriving you of your son.

He’s afraid of you leaving him forever, no matter how much you tell him you’ll definitely come back. He wants to trust you just as much as you trust him, but once more his darkness haunts him and clashes with his sober side. He could lock you up forever or he could let you go, you’d be safer and happier without him. Maybe you will actually come back, or maybe you will forget about him as soon as you step back to your time.

This whole issue causes him to isolate himself from everything and everyone. He needs time to think and come to terms with his feelings, but he’s oh so aware of the quick passing of time. Soon, he’ll have to make a decision that will impact his whole life forever, and yet he can’t really seem to find a proper solution. Not alone, at least.

Stay by his side, patiently put up with his negative thoughts, and comfort his fears away. Promise him over and over again that you will come back, that you wouldn’t forget him for anything in the world. Eventually, he’ll be able to convince himself and fully abandon himself to his trust for you.

When the fateful day comes, he does not expect you to slip away from his arms in the blink of an eye. Your warmth disappears and the cold air hits him with the full realization of what had happened. He takes a deep breath, trying to calm his pounding heart down. All he can do is wait. It might take you days, months, or even years, but he’s willing to wait.

During your absence he drowns his loneliness in sake, he fills the vacant spot in his arms with the white bunnies you used to found so adorable and occupies his time with sparring matches. Then, one day, coming back to his room from a council, he slides the door open and he’s met with two identical pairs of eyes staring at him.

One can only imagine the plethora of emotions hitting him all at once. Before you know it he’s throwing himself to you with the speed of an expert warrior. He hugs you so tightly you can barely breathe, reluctantly letting you go only to get a look at the face he had so longed to see, pressing a deep kiss on your forehead. What stops him from ravaging your lips with even stronger passion is the child’s presence. Maybe it’s better to keep some things for later, you tell him, and he accepts with the cutest of pouts gracing his delicate features.

For some time he’ll be the clingiest he has ever been, though he doesn’t forget your son, whom he now considers as his own. You two look very much alike, and knowing how much you cherish him, he quickly becomes fond of him, too. They spend a lot of time together, forming a bond pretty quickly. Kenshin teaches him all there is to know about the samurai world and the way of the sword (not that he has any intention of throwing him in a battlefield, yet. He’ll let your son accompany him to war only when, as an adult, he’ll be wholly aware of the dangers he’s going to face). Oftentimes you can see them sparring together in the practice room, a rare and soft gaze blessing your lover’s eyes.

Now that both of you are with him, he knows better than to let his fears win him once more, for thus he knows you won’t leave him again. He confesses to you his deepest feelings and thoughts on this matter during quiet, tender moments of intimacy. Maybe one night you're sharing a drink with him while gazing at the night sky from his room; there, he’ll turn his mismatched irises on yours, cup your cheek with his strong hand and tell you, with the most love-dripping tone you had ever heard come out from his mouth: “Thank you for coming back to me, my love. I swear I won’t let you face any danger as long as you two are by my side.”

Nobunaga

So his favorite fireball has a baby fireball? What a surprise, indeed. It's only a single piece of information, and yet it brings to his mind so many possibilities that he can't help but fall deep in thought. Do you have a husband, then? Did he perhaps leave you? If so, how did you manage to take care of your son? He knew life wasn’t easy for a repudiated woman, and one could see it with their own two eyes just by taking a stroll in the poorer neighborhoods of the city. (well, that was something he was trying to change)

Then, he asks himself whether the night of the fire you had been so reluctant to go with him because of your motherly duties. You could have just said so earlier, he would have taken your son to the castle, too. Quickly, you add more interesting details to your story, telling him of the wormhole, your time-travel adventure, and the future.

He half-forces you to make THE bet, the one you cannot ignore, with the added risk that if you lose, you won't be able to see your son ever again. Pretty cruel, right? In your eyes, it might seem so, but truthfully, he's going to let you go at the end of the month, independently from whether you win or lose; he just thinks it'd be spicier to not let you know this very important detail. 

What our grand lord does not expect, is to be hit by Cupid's arrow and cursed with the love of a lifetime. His feelings are so strong he has to stop himself multiple times from directly confessing to you. He blames all the flirting, the sensual touches, the longing kisses, and his affectionate gaze on the bet. You are nothing more than a physical distraction, he can’t let himself love you, and you don’t love him. This way, you'll be able to go back without regrets and doubts. He won't let you, his soulmate, suffer over such a heart-wrenching decision.

Such a prideful and haughty man lowering himself to such tricks only to keep the smile on a woman's face. Pretty ironic, isn't it? Unfortunately for him, anyone can guess the contents of the Demon King's heart, and you are no exception. If you had solemnly promised your return, he would have believed you, that is the type of man he is, but Fate acts before you can take action, and anticipates your departure to the most unexpected of times.

So in the end, you truly did leave him. His beloved fireball, vanished in the same way she had appeared, like a bolt from the blue. He's going to miss you so dearly, and his loneliness will surely take away his sleep at night, but there are still so many things for him to do. You will probably have your fair share, too, though he's sure you'll manage. If it wasn't for his obstination and pride then maybe he would have the humility to deny the same for himself. Maybe one day your path will cross his once again, but who knows, maybe by that time he will have already conquered the whole land, maybe a lethal blow will have taken his life, maybe he'll see you on his last, dying breath. Anyhow, he's going to wait. Patiently and calmly, and he promises himself that were you to return by his side, he won't be denying his love any longer.

It's almost been a year from your departure, and now the snow is slowly falling once more to cover the roofs under its soft embrace. Nobunaga is sitting on the balcony of his tenshu, looking at the city yet bustling with life even in the frigid cold. Just like Azuchi, he hasn't changed much. A couple more scars have appeared somewhere on his body, and the skin just under his eyes has gotten a little darker, but his heart is forever the same. With his thicker haori shielding his lower body from most of the cold air, he brings the red cup of warm sake to his lips, mind wandering to the same, old thoughts of you. Suddenly, his vision turns dark. A pair of warm hands are covering his vision, but before he can reach for his sword, your voice tickles his ear in a low whisper. “Guess who?”

Turning to face you, as a hand rapidly flies to cover his ear from the sudden attack, he quietly basks in the view of your smiling face before slowly erupting in a loud laugh. What an unpredictable one he has fallen for! He must be equally as foolish if he let someone sneak over to him as he was thinking about you.

He takes you in hir arms and keeps you there, where you naturally belong while pressing a kiss to the crown of your head. Your smell, your softness, your body that fit with his like a sword and its sheath. “Welcome back, fireball” With you by his side, everything will be completely different than before. No more sleepless nights or lonely sighs; now he'd have a companion by his side at all times. Sometimes even two.

Nobunaga does not exactly care about the fact that your son is, genetically, not his. Blood is only important to the fools that only view you as an heir-making machine, but he values bonds and the singular individual way more. If he had prioritized family over what was important to him, he would've been killed by his brothers years ago, but it did not happen. What I'm trying to say is that he becomes the fatherly figure your son needs, and he treats him no differently than he would with his biological son. Although yes, he would like to, one day, have another little demon (or a baby angel, depending on whose genes are stronger) running around the castle, to him, yours is already the perfect family.

Nobunaga passes down his views (he doesn't force them, it's more like when a parent explains something to his baby and the baby absorbs everything) onto your child, and makes sure he receives an education fitting for a noble of those times (an open-minded one, possibly). Since he views him as his biological son, once he grows up it will be up to him whether to help his father unifying the country and then, eventually inheriting and ruling everything one day. Growing up in those times though will probably make him accustomed to the idea of fighting even at a young age, so unless you're strictly against it, there will be high chances of him becoming a samurai and following in your lover’s footsteps.

Leaving the gruesome matters aside, Nobu and his son are one hell of a pair of troublemakers! Buy some throat syrup because Hideyoshi will be screaming his lungs out. The man lectures your husband and your own son twice the times you do, either because of their sugar consumptions, their life-threatening activities such as running in the halls, or just general shenanigans. They're quite the headaches, frankly. One of their favorite and safe (because Nobu is there) activities to do together, is going horseriding. The demon commander will sit the boy between his arms and let his horse run at full speed. By the time they come back, the wind will have made a mess of their clothes and hair, but both will have the biggest and purest of smiles on their faces.

(Additionally, for all of them: if they ever catch anyone talking shit about either you or your son, they won't hesitate to slice them up with their swords on the spot.)

[lorei-writes]

Match-Up #21

Ah, yes, yes, @readerinsertfanfiction​, doom is the right word, indeed, surely.

Hmm... Being sensitive may mean being prone to feeling emotion well and responding to it with great intensity. I presume suitors who would be a bit of emotional roller-coaster or who could be hurtful - either with harsh words or very casual approach to the relationship (at least initially) - may be not the best choice.  

Nobunaga (-1) Mitsuhide (-1) Ieyasu (-1) Masamune (-1) Kenshin (-1) Yukimura (-1)

Empathy seems to be a universally cherished trait and I think all relationships could benefit from it. As such, all warlords get +1 point - so nobody gets any.

Now, to protectiveness. I think it would be crucial to find a balance here. Protecting others may be rewarding in itself, but what if the partner was self-destructive? I believe it would turn draining. Also, suitors who feel offended by a suggestion that they need protection could react to this poorly. Additionally, combined with sensitivity, I suppose it could result in her being able to realise when her partner’s emotional state was off?

Nobunaga (+1) Mitsuhide (+1) Hideyoshi (+1) Mitsunari (+1) Ieyasu (-1) Masamune (+1) Kenshin (-1)

Passionate! Conviction! Power! Determination! And so, the new PowerPuff girl wa... I put a wrong CD on. Regardless - I think that passion and being a hard-wrorker combined would be held in high esteem by some of the warlords who do have specific goals in mind.

Nobunaga (+2) Mitsuhide (+1) Hideyoshi (+1) Mitsunari (+2) Ieyasu (+1) Masamune (+2) Kenshin (+1) Shingen (+1) Yukimura (+1)

A hard-working perfectionist? This may lead to a disaster. I think a partner with similar traits could even amplify the problem.  However... I don’t think somebody too overbearingly caring would help it either. I think they could even seem annoying.

Mitsuhide (+1) Hideyoshi (-1) Ieyasu (-1) Masamune (-1) Kenshin (-1) Shingen (+1) Yukimura (-1)

Hmm... I think a cynical person would understand some suitors better. However, she may also find herself annoyed by pure idealists and perhaps those who want to adhere to some sort of rules. To balance it out, I presume I would not recommend any of the pessimists. 

Mitsuhide (+1) Hideyoshi (-1) Ieyasu (-1) Masamune (-1) Kenshin (-1) Shingen (+1) Yukimura (-1)

Prideful? A scythe found a stone. I presume she could find suitors similar in that regard rather interesting... Or at the very least, she would be able to handle them.

Nobunaga (+1)

As for being manipulative and scheming - I think it would push away suitors who value truth and honestly a lot. The ones who are used to such approach would not flinch though, I presume.

Mitsuhide (+1) Hideyoshi (-1) Masamune (-1) Shingen (+1)

1st Summary:

Mitsuhide (+4) Shingen (+4) Nobunaga (+3) Mitsunari (+3) Hideyoshi (-1) Masamune (-1) Yukimura (-2) Ieyasu (-3) Kenshin (-3)

Point distributed for likes:

Nobunaga (+3) - Go,  Entrepreneurship, I suppose a mix of the remaining ones could be enough for an additional point Mitsuhide (+3) - the koto, dancing, mixed point for all the remaining ones Masamune (+3) -  Entrepreneurship, kendo, mixed point as above Shingen (+2) -  Entrepreneurship, the koto (I can see him enjoying it)

Points distributed for dislikes:

Nobunaga (-1) - surprises Mitsuhide (-1) - unpredictable (I suppose?) Masamune (-1) - unpredictable

Shingen was not given any points based on surprises/the unpredictable point, as later life with him seems to be rather stable and not too full of those.

2nd Summary:

Mitsuhide (+6) Shingen (+6) Nobunaga (+5) Mitsunari (+3) Masamune (+1) Hideyoshi (-2) Yukimura (-2) Ieyasu (-3) Kenshin (-3)

Only characters with positive value by their names will be considered in the final stages of the match-up.

Nobunaga (+5)  - at least at first, Nobunaga may push her away from achievig her goals. He also doesn’t understand feelings well at first, so he could call her overly sensitive then.

It doesn’t seem that the remaining suitors would scratch any of the listed pet peeves. 

Oh? Plus points for honesty!

Mitsunari (+1) Masamune (+1)

Oh, see, our Ninja didn’t even show himself!

Final Ranking

Mitsuhide & Shingen (+6) Mitsunari (+4) Masamune (+2)

Oh. Well, it appears That we have a small draw here! Well... What do I dooo... In all honesty, I think that either Shingen or Mitsuhide would work best. However, I wrote results for Shingen plenty too many times and dear Nemo already got Mitsuhide once. So let me invite you to a little humorous ending with Mitsunari (who, at least at end of his route, shows that he can actually be quite capable and responsible). 

Mitsunari

Confessed first: Airi. She could not stand waiting any longer.

Makes tea in the morning: Airi. Mitsunari can do it too, but he usually takes too long.

Hogs blankets at night: Airi. Mitsunari tends to bring in more blankets then. Those get inevitably stolen too, however.

Is the little spoon: Airi.

Possible points for conflict: Mitsunari generally tends to be inclined to operate based on logic rather than emotion. At times, it may lead to miscommunications, some of which he could miss due to his issues with understanding some of the social interactions. However, he is more than willing to try to understand the other point of view.

Free time ideas: Discussing her goals with Mitsunari and trying to adapt them to the era (it may be well possible, given how knowledgeable he is), browsing through the archives, just sitting in the garden and listening to Mitsunari telling her stories (as he tends to remember well most things he has read), training together (with Mitsunari not holding back - remember, he was able to stand his ground against Kenshin)

Favourite date spot: The gardens outside your room.

A secret they share: It is not so much clumsiness, but Mitsunari generally struggling with fine motor skills. If Airi has enough time on her hands, he sometimes accepts her help (even though he still feels a bit uneasy about troubling her with it) and dictates his reports for her to write down.

His favourite thing about her: How passionate and driven she is. It inspired him initially and he is well aware that he wouldn’t have found his motivation without her.

His message to her: “Airi? I think I found a solution to the problem you’ve brought up. Would you like to hear it?”

[atopearth]

Ikemen Sengoku Part 11 - Kennyo Route

Honestly, Kennyo isn't my cup of tea but I am interested in how their romance will develop since it seems like such an unlikely match hahhaha. Anyway, it's pretty unfair of the heroine to feel distaste and dread against Nobunaga when he told Ranmaru that if he ever turned on him, he would kill him. Like um, I'm sure that's pretty normal, not to mention that Ranmaru literally ditched his master to save himself which is pretty ridiculous as one of the closest people to him. He's pretty lucky Nobunaga forgave him. Anyway, it's funny for the heroine to think Nobunaga as awful but not blink an eye at how "awful" Kennyo is for killing random retainers or whatever of Nobunaga. But I guess she has to think of Nobunaga as awful to pique Kennyo's interest lol. Anyway, imagining a bunch of warlords cleaning a storage room together is hilarious. But it was nice of them all to participate, and kind of Ranmaru to plan it to cheer her up after encountering Kennyo. Anyway, I wanted to mention that Kicho is hot and probably second to Kenshin for me, I need his route now😭 It was honestly saddening to see Kennyo pray for forgiveness for his future actions and stuff, his story has always been a sad one that hurts my heart to think about since he's someone that can never move on from the past and can only seek out revenge as his reason for living. He hurts and kills others but feels immense pain over it, and I feel like if he got his revenge, he'd probably kill himself in atonement for it all, but anyway, it's nice of the heroine to want to know more about him (even though she doesn't show any of that leniency towards Nobunaga lol).

Although it's kinda funny how much the heroine and Kennyo coincidentally bump into each other, I do like how every time they do, the heroine shows more and more of her kindness and humanity to remind him of the "better" part of people. I think it really helps Kennyo to put into perspective that she is a sort of light to illuminate his darkness that he can't let go of, although technically a nuisance to remind him of his old self and everything haha. Anyway, it's kinda funny how it was "funny" that Hideyoshi was so worried about the heroine delivering stuff herself and he even told her to bring a weapon with her just in case, and it turns out that maybe she really should have listened to him lol! I think it's actually quite sweet that ringing Kennyo's bell led to his pet weasel stealing it from her and essentially leading her to him lol. It's sweet to see them bond, especially when they saved a little kitten stuck up on a tree together, it just felt like Kennyo really was as normal as he should be and as kind as he still is. It would be nice if the heroine can bring out more and more of his true kindness. Aww young Kennyo looks pretty hot! Although the current mature one is much better I guess. However, Kennyo probably would disagree considering everything he has experienced since then lol. It's nice to see a bit of background for Ranmaru as well as Kennyo though, it can't be helped that Ranmaru would be so attached to Kennyo if he's been by his side since he was saved by Kennyo as a child. It's so sweet to know how happy Ranmaru is over Kennyo and the heroine liking each other and Kennyo becoming more soft and compassionate like he once was because of her, but also sad to see that Ranmaru also really likes her. You'll have your route one day!!

I guess it's nice to see how Shingen wants to try his best to convince Kennyo to give up on his revenge on Nobunaga before it's too late. It’s always nice to have a “friend” like that. Alike the heroine, I wanted to cry for Kennyo too when he told her the story behind the bell. I think it's really painful to have to constantly remember how he and his reinforcements were too late to save his comrades, and because there were traps, they had to flee before they could even get to bury their bodies, having only the bell as remembrance of that day. It's sad though, the bell is kinda like a shackle for Kennyo, a shackle constantly reminding him of revenge and all his comrades' pain. Young Nobunaga is cute lol. Anyway, Kennyo being hurt over the heroine's "betrayal" was actually painful enough that I felt like I could feel it, I felt so bad for him. But I'm glad Ranmaru and her both decided that they couldn't let Kennyo dwell in such darkness again and want to save him, it was pretty heartbreaking but the heroine is filled with such hope and desire to save Kennyo, it makes me feel so touched.

I wanna call the heroine stupid for telling Hideyoshi she really did go out to meet Kennyo when he already established it was a misreport, but really it's never stupid to be truthful about your feelings and to be honest with your heart. I guess this really is the romantic ending huh! I think what I love the most is that everyone knows what kind of person Kennyo is, and that's why they believe they can resolve this war peacefully without bloodshed, and the heroine appearing is like the best gift in hopes of making that truly happen. Anyway, I liked how Kennyo felt like he really could at least put things behind for now, and that it was allowed, and that what most people cared about was him rather than revenge itself. It's sad that Ranmaru won't be with them along their journey to all the temples and see how his people are doing, but I think it's his chance to live for himself rather than following Kennyo so I think the parting is important. I liked the ending. Reading Kennyo's PoV and seeing that in the beginning of the route, he moved those dead bodies so that the heroine wouldn't have to feel scared and see them again when she woke up was really thoughtful of him. I think what I enjoy seeing a lot from Kennyo's perspective is how much his people love and revere him. You can really see more of how much they follow him because they love and respect him more than anything else.

It was obvious that either Kennyo or the heroine were going to get hurt and force them to go to the future (in the dramatic route), which is honestly why I don't really like the dramatic ending sometimes, it's just so..dramatic lmao, it is what it is at least hahaha. Anyway, what I'm really enjoying about the dramatic route is the exploration of Kicho as this "evil" guy that has actually actively killed people and tries to stir up trouble for revenge on Nobunaga apparently. He's hot so it's good, but I think what I like about his character is the potential exploration of how being transported to the future and back to the past doesn't always mean you could survive happily like Sasuke, and you're not necessarily fortunate enough like the heroine to save someone like Nobunaga and gain the adoration of all the warlords. Lmao, the idea of Kennyo watching dramas with the heroine in the modern world sounded so cute. It was nice that the heroine got to meet her family and spend three months there before going back though. It was also nice that Kennyo was able to see Hongan-ji and it's teachings still alive to that day, I think that would be very heartwarming and motivational. I also thought it was really nice to see Kennyo and everyone rebuilding their temples and stuff, having Ranmaru there really made it feel like family. Honestly, I think I liked both the dramatic route and the romantic route. For the dramatic route, I liked how...more things happened I guess, so we got to see stuff like Kennyo enjoying dramas with the heroine in the modern world, but on the other hand, I personally preferred the bittersweet ending in the romantic route where Kennyo and the heroine go on a journey visiting the temples and helping the people who believe in him etc. I also liked how Ranmaru decided to find something for himself in that route. Tbh, I don't have a preference for what Ranmaru chooses because I feel like he's someone who would benefit from both? Like, him staying with Kennyo is truly what he desires, so being able to share his everyday life with the kind Kennyo is what he would love to do, but at the same time I also like the idea of him going out on his own to kinda explore this world now that he's stronger and can take care of himself, especially since I think it would benefit him to learn more things that he wouldn't be able to if he stayed so yeah I really liked both perspectives of how Ranmaru's life could change too.

Overall, I really liked Kennyo's route. He's probably one of my favourites actually, because I just love how they portrayed his pain over the loss of his companions and how much he cherished them? I've always liked that part of him so it was nice to see that expanded on, and I think it was really cute how the heroine and him got to bond over just little chats and spending time getting to know each other. Seeing Kennyo so soft towards the heroine and his people made me really like him. Ranmaru was also such a highlight in this route because seeing him respect Kennyo and want to help him made you understand how worth it Kennyo was haha. I guess I just really liked how gentle Kennyo was balanced with how he was burdened with so much responsibility over so many deaths, it just made his story really heartbreaking, but all the more satisfying when he finally got to share in some happiness with the heroine. Both endings were also pretty great. I think if you like the mature, responsible grieving guy that's really kind, you would probably like Kennyo🤣 Looking back at what I first said when I started this route...not my cup of tea my ass LOL, he’s totally my type hahahaha! Definitely a good surprise I guess haha!

[ikeservant]

Hello just came across your blog! Can I get headcanons for Kenshin, Shingen, and Ieyasu with an MC who is an artist? They had sketchbook and pens, pencils in their purse when they time travelled, so they continue to draw... thank you so much!!

It’s been so long since I’ve gotten an ask I might cry :’) 

It’s been a while and writing papers for finals beat up my brain so this might turn out bad but I hope you like it ^.^/

Kenshin: You can’t tell me ANYBODY who is an artist wouldn’t want to draw a portrait of Kenshin. When they first met MC was standing in front of him, mouth agape. People around MC would think they’re just shocked by his beauty, but the MC’s hands were twitching with the urge to draw this human masterpiece. After running into eachother and becoming friends, MC finally popped the question of him being a model for drawing. With the promise of free sake, Kenshin agreed for his peculiar artist friend. Not wanting to take too much of his time, MC just drew a sketch with pencil. Kenshin was baffled with how good it looked with just a pencil outline. The pencil is the second best pointy thing he’s ever seen in his life (the first being a sword) because of what it could create. After MC and Kenshin got together, he would supply them with whatever paper or utensils they needed. They held a funeral for each pencil and pen because those ain’t gonna be invented for a long time. MC has a secret drawing of Kenshin with his bunny hoard while he was working on paper documents that they will pull out as comfort whenever Kenshin’s away. He loves watching MC draw and will keep every picture, even the little doodles of flowers and bunnies. Will get VERY jealous if MC gives drawings to others because they’re so special to him (they’re not wedding rings Kenshin calm down)

Shingen: “A god/goddess of beauty AND the arts?” Shingen is immediately intrigued. Would probably pull a “draw me like one of your French girls” and would greatly appreciate if MC drew him (which who wouldn’t want to draw dem muscles?). Shingen is a craftsman himself with woodworking, so he has an eye for detail and precision. He’s impressed and intrigued with modern art styles and would be in love with MC’s drawings. If MC couldn’t describe what a modern object looked like, they’d whip out their sketchbook and pencil and draw it, which would fascinate Shingen both by the object and by the abstract drawing. He would most likely hang MC’s drawings everwhere and tell guests “you see this? My beautiful angel drew this.” and hype MC’s artwork up. It’s led to MC being very popular and pursue their artist dream. With his craftsmanship skills and Sasuke’s help, Shingen gave MC for their birthday his creations of his newly invented Sengoku pencils and pens for when MC runs out of ink and graphite from their modern art supplies. An artist MC would THRIVE with Shingen holy smokes.

Ieyasu: When they first meet, Ieyasu would be eyeing your strange book of papers and strange stick tools. MC would catch his eye and show him what these art tools are. He’d pretend like he doesn’t care but trust me, he is internally intrigued. After a while Ieyasu and MC would become friends. It became a tradition for MC visiting his place as the last pit stop for delivering mail as chatelain. Ieyasu would tell them that they should sit down or else MC’s going to trip and be a hassle (translation “Please take a seat and rest. I’m worried about you”). They sit on the balcony and watch Wasabi the deer prance around the garden. MC fishes their sketchbook and pencil to do some drawings to unwind. Ieyasu’s in a trance watching the pencil move against the paper. After MC was finished, they tore the paper from the book and handed it to Ieyasu before leaving to go back to their room. It was a picture of Wasabi in the garden *cue blushing Ieyasu bc its so cute and pretty at the same time*. He keeps it somewhere only he can see because its secretly precious to him. When MC and him become a couple, he would watch MC draw every night, fascinated with whatever MC created. Whenever MC asks how it looks he’d say “It’s good I guess.” But if MC is feeling insecure about their work he would find the words to say how much he admires their artwork. There’d be hell to pay if anybody critiqued his MC’s artwork because in his eyes he thinks their creations and their drive to be an artist is so admirable and fascinating and is one of the reasons he loves MC. MC would magically find more writing paper and writing utensils. How did that get there? You know it’s him =u=. MC would try teaching him how to draw and he’d try (its canon he is on kindergarten art level) but MC will cherish his drawings and he’s upgraded to being able to draw a pretty good flower (Be proud of him). 

[darkmindsthinktwistedthoughts]

2nd Headcanon

How would the warlords react to an Mc with zero sense of direction?

Let's face it they knew they had a problem. If it wasn't for GPS and Google maps in the modern world they would have been lost in the modern world. So to be stuck in the past without either being available was their own silent nightmare. They tried to hide it but in the end, it was far too obvious and the guys all found out...

Azuchi Crew

Nobunaga: It took him a few meetings with Mc to work out. After all, he spent a lot of his time in the tenshu and didn't get the opportunity to observe Mc outside of war council and when he summoned them to come to his room. When he did figure it out he smiled and laughed as he watched them get flustered. Finds it amusing that someone so lacking in awareness could have saved his life. He forbid Mc from going anywhere without him or someone accompanying them. He told them he intended to take good care of them and he was a man of his word."I do not give my lucky charm permission to get lost."

Hideyoshi: Beside himself with worry. You thought you had seen flustered and worried Mama-yoshi when it came to looking after Mitsunari? You have not seen this guy when he figures out Mc's secret. He becomes their shadow figure around the castle, think extreme Helicopter parent. Mc does not have time to realise they are lost before being pointed in the correct direction.

Mitsunari: Bird's of a feather. He doesn't see a problem with Mc being directionally challenged it adds to their charm and he has discovered new merchants and traders as a result of looking for Mc when they go missing.

Ieyasu: Grumbles and complains all the time about not being able to take his eyes off them but secretly is a little thankful for it as it gives him an excuse to be around them most of the time. "It's not like I want to be here it would just give me more work if you got lost and hurt yourself."

Mitsuhide: He knew. Within moments of Mc stepping foot in the castle, he figured it all out. Took great delight in teasing them about it in a roundabout way where he hinted at him knowing their secret but never actually saying it in so many words. When he finally gets Mc to admit their problem he grins and tells them he knows. Takes time out of his day when he can to try to figure out a way of helping them remember some things so they can try not to get lost so often. "Don't worry little mouse I shall help you. It will certainly be an improvement... maybe."

Masamune: Probably the second one to work it out in the castle. Mc had appeared so often in the kitchens or gardens when he was there he couldn't not see their bewildered face and know that they were lost. Found it funny how they would deny the issue and he helped set up a list of errands for them. Couldn't stop laughing watching Mc get lost and wonder how they would ever finish the tasks. When they admit defeat Mc can't be mad at the troublesome warlord as he apologises to them with a basket of hot steam buns and tells them a lack of direction isn't the end of the world.

Ranmaru: Get's a bit frustrated if he's honest. As if he doesn't have enough work to do he has to keep an eye out for the safety of Mc who aimlessly wanders around. He has a duty to Lord Nobunaga to look after his interests and one of them is an Mc with no homing instinct. Secretly finds it kind of cute and takes some pride in the fact Mc is a little reliant on him.

U/T Crew

Kenshin: Terrified. If he could put them back in the cells he would. In fact, he has considered this for when he is not at home, for Mc's safety and his own peace of mind. What if they hurt themselves? What if they get lost and he can't find them again? His mind is a wash with unhelpful worrying despite reassurance from Shingen that Mc has to have some sense of direction if they have managed to survive this many years in life. Kenshin won't hear of it. Mc is his and he will protect them from everything even something as intangible as a lack of direction.

Shingen: Is seriously considering remodelling his castle so that it is a simpler layout for his Goddess to navigate. He wants nothing more than to support and cherish her, she saved him and he feels its only right to make it so she can live in safety and comfort in their own home. Laid back but secretly a little jealous when Yuki or Sasuke step in to help Mc. He wants to give them space and play it cool but it doesn't stop childish notions in his mind.

Yoshimoto: Tends to think there is beauty in everything and prefers to see it that way than to see things destroyed. Can't say for sure if he is unsettled by Mc's ailment or not. What he does know is that there is something ethereal about the way they seem to glide about in a fluster, like a feather caught in a soft breeze as they try to figure out their direction. He doesn't get tired of it but he will step in and offer gentle guidance also enjoying that vision sweep over Mc's face as they show unbridled relief at his presence. He is not a man of war but he knows what it is to wish to protect something you love.

Sasuke: All too aware of how problematic Mc can be. He is their first friend in the past and always on their side. He had declared as much even before realising the problem. He is thankful for his ninja training as it allows him to be in a constant state of awareness around Mc, ready to leap in and point them in the right direction... 3 months is going to seem like a very long time. Whilst it is tiring he is also very supportive and is working on a way of replicating some sort of Sengoku GPS or Tracking device. He wants you to be safe but he also wants you to feel free to explore without fear.

Yukimura: Called them a Bore Woman on their first meeting and there is no way he is changing his mind on that any time soon. He has never seen someone rush about like a headless chicken half as much as Mc. Rushes and darts about after them trying to keep them from going so far that they do get into trouble. Will snap and give them a hard time but then feel guilty as he knows its not something they could exactly help. Buys some sweets from a tea house to try to cheer up Mc. He really doesn't do sad and crying girls. "Here Dummy this is for you. Don't look at me like that I know its not your fault you have as much sense as a rabbit on a battlefield. Just eat it and smile already."

Self-appointed “Demon” and the Pirate

Kennyo: Has no idea what to do. Mc has completely stumped him on this one. He thought he could use them for information on castle layout and originally thought they were just playing dumb but after repeated questioning, it was all too apparent that they weren't lying when they said they had no idea where anything was. Whilst Mc is under his care he finds himself drawn to them and treating them in the same way he would treat a skittish animal. They just bring out this protective side of him that is wholly undemonic.

Motonari: Spends most of his time laughing at Mc. He has his issues too but this is a new one he had never seen on this scale before and it was funny as hell. He never lost interest in watching Mc rush about even on his ship and managing to get lost. After hearing quiet sobs one night he noticed Mc curled up behind some barrels in the hold and made a plan in his mind to maybe not be as blatant with his enjoyment. Has no idea what could make him feel a small desire to go a little easy on them and blames the very small amount of alcohol someone gave him by accident at dinner.

—

[dreamscapesin1582]

Day Four: Go On

I had been sparring with Sasuke for the past three hours in the gardens before I realized that my beautiful wife and my precious daughter was at the corner, almost out of sight.

Two people who give light to my life. My family.

And indeed a ninja I’ve trained, Sasuke took my appreciating of my family into a chance to sneak an attack. But it proved useless since I was able to deflect it with my blade.

“Ah, shoot,” he breathed out almost like a distressed sigh before adjusting his glasses, “I guess you’re not too spaced out.”

“I do not understand what you meant, but I will acknowledge that you bravely took the opportunity when it presented itself.” I sheathed my sword and so did he. “The duel is over.”

“I understand.” He said, turning his eyes on what caught my attention in the first place. “They seem to be talking about something.”

When I glanced at them, I saw that my wife was supposed to walk towards my direction but my daughter was tugging her hand.

“Kenshin!” She beamed when she noticed me looking at them. My little one was surprised and an anxious expression fell over her pretty face. I got curious.

She finally walked over while holding my daughter’s hand. But she couldn’t seem to look at me. It felt like a stab to my chest—no, it was worse.

Did she grow uncomfortable watching me spar?

“Go on, sweetie.” My wife cooed with a gentle smile as she led my child to me. My little one took little steps towards me as I knelt down to meet her gaze, but she seems so interested on looking at her feet.

Looking up closer, I noticed she was hiding something behind her.

“What is it?” I told her. She was still quiet. “Go on, little one.”

Her cheeks were like pale peaches as she suddenly shoved something in my chest. It was a surprise attack that I could not defend myself with as I leaned back a little, almost losing my balance.

I immediately caught the thing she pushed onto me before it dropped. It was paper. In my confusion, my eyes landed on her—and her cheeks were now a shade like that of cherry blossoms.

Then I took notice of what was in the paper, and there I saw—

“H-Happy birthday, Papa..!” She cried out, eyes squeezed shut as she stood before me, seemingly embarrassed.

But I was almost driven to tears.

She drew a picture of myself, with her and my wife. The three of us together… along with the stupid addition of Shingen, Yukimura and Sasuke at the side.

But we were together regardless, with smiles and cheers.

She also tried to write, it seems. She has not been long in temple school but I felt proud that she could already write, even if it was imperfect.

I love you. Happy birthday.

But it was perfect in my eyes.

“This is…” I couldn’t even get the right words. My heart is filled with so much adoration that it seems insufficient to describe by words alone. “…Come here.”

She was reluctant but still obeyed, and I wrapped my arms around her and stood up, lifting her up high. She was giggling.

The gift she offered is one thing, but seeing my child’s honest smile is still an incomparable gift.

“Thank you.” I nuzzled my nose on hers as she continued to laugh still. It brings me so much joy to hear such music to my ears. “I will cherish this forever.”

She nodded happily as I kissed her forehead before I set her down the ground. I glanced at my wife who was smiling at us along with Sasuke beside her.

“I think that melted my stone cold heart.”

“Sasuke, stop. You’re not stone cold.” She shook her head as she took a step towards us. “See, didn’t I tell you? He would like it.”

“Why, did you think I wouldn’t?” I asked.

The little one twiddled with her fingers as she spoke softly. “Papa has a lot of nice gifts today… so I thought mine wasn’t good.”

I chuckled. She’s too adorable… just like her mother.

I placed my hand on top of her head. “Silly girl. Of course I would like anything you would give me, as long as it’s from you. You are special to me. Nothing among those other gifts would hold a candle to yours, I assure you.”

“Are you sure?”

“Would I trick you?”

“…No.” And she had that big grin again. Ah, she was so cute.

“Kenshin. Excuse us now but we’re going to go prepare.” My partner said as she approached our child. “We’re still going to have a nice party for your papa, aren’t we?”

“Yes!”

She seemed so excited for the banquet that she ran off immediately, almost as if she wasn’t embarrassed a while ago. My wife then faced me with a smile mirroring my little sunshine’s grin.

She placed a brief peck on my lips. “I’ll see you later.”

“I can’t seem to wait.” I smiled back. She giggled as she followed inside. I watched them with all the love I felt for them.

“…Sasuke.”

“Yes, Lord Kenshin?”

“Find a way to frame this drawing.”

I wasn’t facing him, but I had a feeling he was smiling too. “As you wish.”

[ikemensengokufandom]

hello :) I'm an Ikemen Sengoku EN player. I want to ask you, how if our warlords living in our era? what's their job? and how's our live as husband, wife and have a child? thanks a lot :)

ODA NOBUNAGA:

> He will be a President/Chairman of a big corporate company. > He will still be narcissistic AF, and will do anything to take down his competitor.   Making sure that his company will be the biggest/No. 1 in Japan. > As his wife you’ll be a frickin’ rich housewife.  > You and Nobunaga will probably have a Son.  > Although Nobunaga is busy he will make sure that he will make out some time for you and your son.  > Nobunaga will have Mama Hideyoshi as a very good PA to assist him.  When he really make out some time for his family, poor mama Hideyoshi will probably need to work OT… > Nobunaga will probably teach his son how to fight for survival even though he’s probably a toddler.> You’ll have to constantly get into a small argument of your husband everytime when he overfed your son too much sugar candies.  You know that he won’t listen and he’s too stubborn to understand the consequence of sugar rush.  > But you get used to it anyway and all you can do is sigh as you got a big kid and a small kid to handle.

DATE MASAMUNE:

> He will probably be a hottest chef/restaurant owner if he lives in our era. >His cooking is so good that he won Michelin award. > He is so popular that every female customer wants to bang him.> You as a wife will be assisting him in the restaurant and will get jealous when some female customer got too close to him. > But he still loves you and your daughter anyway. > Did I mentioned that he will have a daughter?  Oh yes.> He will make dad jokes and embarrassed his daughter in front of customers sometimes. > If his daughter has a BF, he will go nuts.  Probably not chasing him around with kitchen knife but showing off his chopping skills scares the poor dude off.> Sometimes when the restaurant are quiet/closing, he’ll do kinky things and you guys probably fuck in the kitchen. > You will have the best sex life with a hot chef ever.  

AKECHI MITSUHIDE:

(Wow, to be honest I am not sure what will his occupation would be considering he’s so mysterious.  Let me give it a try.) > Investor.  He’ll probably be a good investor in a huge investment company considering his sharp tongue. > You and him will have 2 sons, a pair of twin. > As he needs to drink with his clients often, he might not have time for you and your sons. > Your sons are not happy that their papa is not spending enough time with you. > Like their father, they’re pretty smart/scheming.  So they always have something up on their sleeves to make their papa spend more time with you instead of drinking with his clients.  So there’s this one time they used his computer and booked air tickets after they managed to steal Mitsuhide’s credit card when he was bathing. > But their father is smart, like come on kids you’re of the same gene.  He would have figured it out. > Instead of punishing his sons, he just grinned and pretend he knows nothing as he really want to spend time with you and at the same time it make their kids happy.  > He just patted his sons’ head, then kissed you on the forehead saying that he’s giving you a surprise; a holiday trip of four.  

TOKUGAWA IEYASU:

> He will be a doctor. > A doctor that every nurse would want to bang on him but he thinks that they’re annoying and tend to avoid them unless it’s work purposes.> He is also a strict doctor and will tend to get angry with his patients if they don’t take care of themselves, resulting themselves to get worse if they neglected their health. > He’s a strict husband to you as you’re pregnant with a baby girl.  He will control whatever you eat and will make sure that you’re taken care of / have the best as he’s a worrywart.  > Constantly provide baby education by playing classical music and read storybooks as he believe that that’s beneficial for your baby.> Sometimes you’ll get into a small argument with him as he won’t give in your cravings, because he believed that they are not healthy.  > He’ll rubbed on your swollen belly and grumble about it, like as if he is complaining to his baby.> You giggle when you see him talking to the baby, as his smile shows that he cares and has proved that he will be a great father once your baby girl is born.

TOYOTOMI HIDEYOSHI:

> Works for Nobunaga as his PA. > People will call him as “Mama of the company” as sometimes he nags to the staff like as if he is their mother. > A great assistant to Nobunaga, but also strict on Nobunaga’s sugar intake.> A sweet husband who will shower you with morning kisses everyday.  > You and him will have a cute daughter, who likes to be around her papa everyday. > Hideyoshi loves his family, and you and his daughter priority are always number one other than Nobunaga. > He will be the type who will help out with housework and cooking, as he doesn’t want to tire you out.  > He will also be a great teacher to his daughter when it comes to homework, and a very patient dad indeed. > But one day, he went instantly nuts when he saw his daughter holding on a male classmate’s hands while he’s there to pick her up from school.  > Ever since that day, he will constantly make a detour to his daughter’s school and pick her up, as he is worried that the boy might snatched her away from him. > You understand that your husband is jealous, and you couldn’t help but giggled everytime when he’s back with his daughter.  When you asked him when he’ll stop doing that, he replied by saying that until the boy stopped approaching her.  > You imagined that life will be harder if your daughter is getting married in the future…. as you can’t wait what will be his reaction by then.

ISHIDA MITSUNARI:

> He will be a great teacher.> He is patient and will constantly help the students if they are having problem with their subjects.  > You and him will have a son and daughter.  > Both children will be as smart as him, and will constantly ask their papa questions. > Sometimes he will offer to help you in terms of housework and cooking…. but you rather not want his help as he is clumsy and will make things even worse.> But you’ll be nice and told him to read stories to his children instead.> He will also be the one who tell bedtime stories everynight, and his children enjoy that as he’s a good storyteller.> Once your children are asleep, he’ll hugged you from behind and whispered “I love you, thank you for your hard work.” and nibbled on your ears.  > Then he’ll lead you to the bed and shower you with love. > Although he’s a teacher and a good gentle father by day, but at night he’s probably a closet pervert and wanted to explore your body…. using “I need it for biology reference" as an excuse.  

SANADA YUKIMURA : > A hot tsundere policeman. > He will be protective of you and make sure that you’re safe by following you to work and bringing you home everyday.> You and him will have a son, who is as tsundere as him> Your son and him hardly speak to each other due to their similar personality.  > One time it changed when he saw his son got bullied.  > He confronted the bullies and protected his son. > His son will be “It’s not like I want your protection… but thanks.” reaction.  Yukimura still smiled anyway and gave a head pat, telling him that he’ll be teaching him self-defense.  > You’re surprised when you see Yukimura and his son are having training together.  You felt happy as finally you no longer need to be in the middle as you might not need to hear their sarcasm towards each other.  > You thanked Yukimura and gave him a kiss on his cheek.  > When your son saw that he got jealous and hell breaks, things are going back to the starting point again… and oh boy you regretted it.  

TAKEDA SHINGEN :

> He will be an online business owner who sells DIY furniture. (According to his route yep) > When he meet with his customers to deliver the items, he often got approached by the female customers.> As he’s married, he kindly rejected them and spends more time with you instead.> Knowing that you’re pregnant with a boy, he will massage you every single night when you’re having cramps / trying to make you relax.> He will constantly rub on your belly and whisper to his son, telling him to go easy on you as you’re having a hard time right now. > He will be damm patient, especially when you’re having cravings / fits.  He will try to satisfy you and sooth you down by coaxing you.  > He will tell you that everything is going to be alright and will cherish you and your son forever, showering you kisses and hugged you until you’re able to fall asleep.  > He will watched you sleep and won’t sleep until he saw your smile while sleeping.  

UESUGI KENSHIN :

> A strict husband and a father.  > A President/Chairman of a big corporate company, Nobunaga’s competitor. > You’re his secretary and he will make sure that you’re by his side 24/7> He will make any guy to work OT for a week if they approached you and spoke to you for longer than a minute. > Sometimes you tried to persuade him not to do that but he shuts you down with a kiss. > Both of you have a beautiful daughter.  > He is protective AND possessive towards you and your daughter.  > He even made threats towards his daughters’ male classmates and teachers when they talk to her. > You said that he is ruining her social life but he doesn’t care anyway, saying that she should be hanging out with girls more than boys. > He even wanted to send her to a girls’ school / a nun school but you stopped him. > Although he is over protective af, you know that he deeply loves you and his daughter.

[celestianvices]

Fullmetalia: Ruroni Kenshin variant

[tag: fullmetalia: RK]

Since she was a child, Huli had always loved Xing. It didn’t matter that he was older than her, not in the least. Like many children, Huli lost her parents when she was very small, and for a time she was without anyone to care for her, until she was found by Xing and taken in, just before he himself became an apprentice to a swordsman. She first began to learn the way of the sword from watching him, and then from being taught by him, and when war came, Huli was determined to be at his side on the field of battle.

He left their home town for the first time just as the Bakumatsu period was beginning,, and many of those days she spent training alone because of it, waiting for the time when she’d be able to fight at his side. During that time, though, she also gained more ladylike pursuits, cooking and singing, and music. One of her most cherished memories even now is the day when Xing returned to her with a gift; a beautifully crafted flute that she came to carry on her person at all times, as much a part of her daily routine as her katana and wakazashi.

When finally she came to join him, Huli could see he’d gained much more experience being out in the world for so long. By that time he was working with the Ishin Shishi, and since that was where he was, that was where Huli decided she would be as well. It was something she had to work hard to get into, but the girl persisted nonetheless and proved herself a dependable ally In combat time and again, adopting the style of dress that the male warriors used on occasion for more ease of movement.

Through the years, they fought side by side, until one day when the two were embroiled in an increasingly grueling battle. This was a fight that would later come to be known as the Kinmon Incident. Pro-imperial and anti-foreigner groups rebelled over an edict issued by the Japanese Emperor Kōmei in 1863 to ‘expel barbarians", and started a bloody fight at the Imperial Palace in Kyoto. Pressed almost back to back, they defended themselves, each other, and the location they were assigned to until a much stronger foe confronted them, launching a brutal attack toward Xing. Moving with utmost speed Huli moved her beloved out of the way of the blow, taking their enemy’s blade into her heart even as she countered with her own weapons, piercing their flesh and giving Xing enough time to fell them.

He held her close to him then, red staining his clothes and the ground around them, and prayed desperately that she would not leave his side yet. He wasn’t ready. Surprisingly, his prayers were answered, possibly due to the selflessness of her actions, but who really knows. For whatever reason, Huli did not pass on, nor did she become a ghost or apparition. Her soul became a celestial being; a spirit, and Huli believed that because of this, she would be able to stay by his side.

But beyond a glimpse and a feeling, Xing could not see her. As a new spirit she could not speak to him or give more than a vague sense that she had not abandoned him. So, feeling the immense weight of guilt he held over her death, and his own belief that it was his selfishness that prevented her from moving on to the next world Xing left the grave and returned to his home in mourning.

Seeing his pain cause Huli's heart to ache as well and she chose to separate herself rather than cause him anymore undue harm. Her hope was that time would heal his wounds in a way her continued proximity could not, though she would always watch over him. For many years after that, she lived alone on the moon with only a fox spirit as her companion, returning just once a year to visit her grave site and her beloved albeit mostly in secret.

As time went on Huli grew lonely staying on the moon. Little by little, the spirit woman decided to visit the earth more often, always keeping away from her hometown and the grave marker that rested there. She didn’t want the people to believe she’d begun to haunt them, or to become afraid because of her. She gained more stability with her new form and even achieved the ability to show herself to mortals, and touch the physical world. She could make herself solid or phase through objects and walls. She learned the only thing she couldn't pass through was jade, and that it was often fashioned into weapons by exorcists...

Huli learned to rarely visit heavily populated areas because the risk of such encounters was high.

Often times now she can be found in fields or on roadsides, especially those with flowering trees, where she will sing to or play music for them. In particular, Huli loves orange blossoms the best, and it’s very easy to get her to appear if that particular flower is on hand.

[reinasescape]

What Self Defense/Battle Skill Would The Lords Teach the MC (Part 2)

For other works: Fanfiction Masterpost

For other headcanons: Headcanon Masterpost

Hideyoshi

He was as silver tongued as the best of them. It helped keep him alive to this point. Although the charm couldn’t be taught, the instincts could be honed. He would teach her to cold read like no other, and in turn, he hoped that it would help her avoid danger. She would learn to read everything from faces to gestures, listening for the slightest intonations in their speech, easing people into divulging their secrets. By the end, she’d really see how words could be just as powerful as steel.

Inuchiyo

He never wanted to put a weapon in her hand. It wasn’t because he didn’t trust her, or he didn’t believe in her, but to have her take up arms signaled a weakness of his own. The act would be a reminder of his own responsibilities to his people and how he wouldn’t be able to always be by her side. It was an acknowledgement that he had to step down as her protector: a role he cherished since they were children. They were now Lord and Lady of the Maeda.

His emotions were mixed as he watched her from afar take up the bow. It was the only weapon he approved of. Something that would keep her out of the fray, but it was a poor consolation. Her face was so determined though that he couldn’t help but smile.

Ieyasu

Poisons. As any physiker worth his salt would know his poisons. If he didn’t, how else would he treat them. And as any strategist knows, anything that could be used against you can be just as easily turned on your enemies. Anyone who dared to touch what was his deserved a painful death in his mind. It didn’t matter that his retainers thought him kinder or that he understood his people’s pain. If someone wanted to hurt her, he wanted them to pay the price. For her, Ieyasu would have a dagger made as well as a small box of poisons. He’d painstakingly write out each use for her, and how to apply it to the blade. In the end, it’d be up to her on how she’d put it all to use.

Mitsunari

Nothing could substitute hard earned knowledge in a world of constant war. He slowly built up her repertoire, starting with the classics, and taking the time to teach her with maps. He was an unforgiving teacher, sometimes he wondered if he was boring her, but she matched his fervor. There was no limit: the supply routes, battle formations, to teaching the next generation, she met him pace for pace. He was her whetstone, and when she lagged behind, he’d slow down and wait for her to catch up with that dopey endearing smile.

Kenshin

He believed in his strength, but Kenshin didn’t take anything for granted. After lifting the ban on women from Kasugayama, he still couldn’t assuage his fears. When he was finally able to deal with it, he learned to lean on her. She learned to be a leader able to hold the castle against a siege. It helped that Kasugayama was situated in the mountains, giving it a defensive advantage. He walked the trenches and outer bailey with her, exploring all the nooks and crannies together until he was confident she would be able to hold the castle with the guards left behind. And in the worst case situation, she would be able to handle an evacuation because no matter how dear Kasugayama was to them, it wouldn’t be home without the people who lived in it, and he never intended to let the enemy take it.

Shingen

Shingen would teach her how to ride with the best of them. To be able to ride and ride well could save her life. He was not a fan of trick riding for he liked to face everything head on, but it wouldn’t be the same for her. Her horse would be trained specifically for this task. To evade, dance around the enemy, and to be stout hearted so as never to throw her. She’d learn to fall, roll, following that horse until rider and horse were inseparable

. 

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Commission Info

[dreamscapesin1582]

Chapter T H R E E

Word Count: 2685

Reading Time: 10+ Minutes

Tagging: @acrispyapple , @masamunesmistress , @that-otome-potato 

Trigger warning: Mentions of death/suicide.

[ edited: 07/17/20 ]

Katsumi didn’t mean to fall asleep during the trip back, especially not in the arms of a man she just met. But she was just human, whose energy was drained in a single night’s time, and soon her body just eased onto his chest.

Kenshin spoke nothing of it. Not how he carried her back to her room when they arrived, almost admiring the familiarity of a woman’s touch—no. He convinced himself that it was because hostility nor fear did not suit that pretty face, and the bliss of unawareness seemed better.  

And then his noble self soon honored his word. He personally instructed his people not to approach the young woman unless she agreed to have their company. Complaints nor questions were not entertained, and so they just listened… well, his people, that is.

Sunlight peeked through the doors, pulling her away from the comforts of slumber. Her brows twitched as her eyes cracked open to find the same wooden ceiling she woke up to hours ago.

That’s right. Remembering the events of last night, she exhaled and closed her eyes. Then she sat up and gave her cheeks a good smack.

A decision always has its consequences. And she has to bear with it.

Her hands fell on her lap as she thoughtlessly looked around the room, thinking about what to do from then. There, she found a package stowed away near the door.

She approached it, seeing a change of clothes with a note signed by Sasuke. Apparently, Kenshin had gone to the extremes to see through their agreement. She blinked, both at the note and the kimono, as her chest warmed at the thought.

Katsumi began dressing when her mind lingered on Kenshin’s last words before she surrendered to her fatigue.

“You remind me of someone.”

Just who would that someone be?

A few moments passed until she heard a soft knock from outside, ripping her away from her trance. “Katsumi? It’s me.”

“Sasuke..?” She called as she frantically fixed her obi before coming to the door, only to find him carrying a tray. “Is that for me?”

“Yes.”

“Oh, t-thank you.” She bowed immediately, as if it was a reflex. “I would have gotten it myself if you told me…”  

“Don’t worry about it.”

Both of them stared at each other before Katsumi spoke again. “Would you like to come in?”

“Thanks.” Katsumi stepped aside as Sasuke entered, carefully setting the tray down on the desk. She reluctantly made her way beside him when he noticed her clothes. “It looks good on you.”

She offered a humble smile. “Thank you for getting it for me.”

“Do you need anything else? I could have it brought to you.”

“Oh, no. This is too much already.” She waved her hands. “I’m sorry for the trouble. You must be very busy, after all.”

“No, it’s okay. I wanted to check on you before attending to Lord Kenshin.” Sasuke attempted to show a smile to ease her worry. Katsumi relented and nodded. “Well then, I’ll leave you to eat in peace.”

Before he stepped out, he paused by the door and spoke again. “…Also, someone might visit you soon, despite Lord Kenshin’s castle memorandum. Though I assure you, he means no harm.”

And he left just like that. Katsumi pursed her lips before paying attention to the food. She picked up the chopsticks and started eating. Her brows rose in delight at the well-prepared meal, and she took her time relishing on it as a compliment to the cook. However, there was a nagging thought at the back of her head saying that she should prepare. For what?

Meanwhile, Shingen was up and about, striding the halls like an eager kid excited about something. But when he passed through Kenshin’s room, his smile faltered.

“Haven’t you had enough?”

Kenshin was just as displeased as his visitor. As if too weary to even answer him, he downs another cup and refills it again. That was an answer in itself.

“I’m surprised the alcohol hasn’t drowned you just yet.” He sighed and waved his hand dismissively, turning to leave. “Do your worst.”

And he leaves him to his drunken misery. Kenshin stares at the cup filled to the brim, losing his appetite. He cursed Shingen in his mind, but if he only became honest with himself, he just really loathes the fact that Shingen was damn right.

“I’m surprised it hasn’t killed me, too.”

As soon as she unclasped her hands to thank for the food, the door slid open. Katsumi casted her eyes at her visitor, tall and confident, on the other side of the door.

“I finally get to meet you.”

Is he the one Sasuke was referring to? She wasn’t sure, but the charming smile on his handsome face said nothing about an offender. But—

“As expected from a lady who was able to charm Kenshin, you truly look like an angel.” He said with all the certainty in the world that Katsumi was dumbfounded. A light blush dusted her cheeks.

“C-Charmed? Angel?” She looked away modestly. “I—please. Jokes like that aren’t funny…”

“Oh, but it’s the most honest thing my lips has ever said.” He doesn’t budge. Katsumi twitched uncomfortably. “I never speak of nonsense. I like to say it how I see it fit.”

A wry chuckle escaped him when she couldn’t speak. “Apologies. It wasn’t my intention to startle you, my angel.”

Katsumi drew a breath, reluctantly facing him again after reminding herself of Sasuke’s words. Surely he means no harm… since he still remained on the other side of the door, albeit the masculine grin stayed as well.

“I’m sorry, I just don’t know how to respond to… sweet talk.” She uttered. “Can I help you with something?”

“Ah, yes. I came to ask for the pleasure of having your company? I would love to invite you to a walk around the castle.” He was saying it in his typical fashion, but Katsumi somehow detected that he toned it down. “I heard you were staying. I would hate for you to get lost while you’re here.”

And that was how she found herself walking with one of the greatest names in Japanese history: Takeda Shingen.

He talked about everyday things that happen around the castle, allowing her time to comprehend his words. Then he moved to casual topics, like his beloved young commander whom he likes to tease every now and then.    

He was an unshakeable flirt, but for some reason Katsumi gradually felt okay with his company as he spoke in a rather considerate pace.

“Um, wait,” she said in the middle of their tour, “I thought Kenshin was your rival…”

“Ah. He still attempts to kill me at every chance he gets.” He casually nodded like being a target was a normal thing. “But he also does that to Sasuke, though he calls it ‘sparring.’”

Shingen led her to the cherry blossom tree that stood in the garden behind the castle. Katsumi followed silently, watching him as he gazed up at the swaying blossoms, like a sad fellow reminiscing his woes.

“We have battled each other four times, each ending in stalemates. Kenshin is a man I held worthy to fight with… a rival I acknowledged the most.” She spied his expression, seeing a flash of grief underneath steel gray eyes. She recalled Kenshin’s similar expression, and her chest ached anew.

“…But when I lost my home to Oda Nobunaga, Kenshin offered me shelter in his castle. Then we got into an alliance.”

And then it disappeared just like that… just like Kenshin’s. Shingen faced her with the same alluring smile. “Sorry for making this conversation dull. How shall I make it up to you?”

“O-Oh, I didn’t mind.” She shook her head. “I’m just surprised how it came to be. You know, rivals being in the same house.”

“Kenshin is a complicated man.”

“…I thought so, too.”

The man turned to her with piqued interest. “Did he say something about himself?”

“Not exactly,” she pressed her lips as she tried to find the right words, “I mean, his words were a little harsh and demanding… but he almost seemed like he was struggling with something, contradicting himself all the while. I found him… difficult to understand.”

“…Are you afraid of him?”

Her mind went back to her brief encounter with him. She was aware of his reputation: the God of War. She watched him strike a person without hesitation. She knew that he could kill her that night.

After an experience like that, anyone would be afraid.

But what she saw behind all that was different. She saw it with her own eyes. In that brief moment, his eyes that were once of a predator had the reflection of a broken man. His arms trapped her like a caged bird, but he had the intention of taking her to safety.

He was a complicated man, indeed.

“No.”

Shingen chuckled heartily, which Katsumi oddly interpreted as satisfaction. She wasn’t even certain it was the right answer—but it just rolled out her tongue so naturally.

“You’re in safe hands indeed.” He reassures all of a sudden. “If that woman-hater went through all that for you, then rest assured he won’t point his sword at you.”

“You say that with such confidence.”

“I’ve known him for a while.”

Katsumi’s eyes lit up subtly, with curiosity getting the best of her. She hesitantly looked at Shingen. “Can I ask you something?”

“Go ahead.”

“Do I look like someone you know?” She asked. “Or rather… someone Kenshin knows?”

“Why do you ask?” Katsumi nervously faced Shingen’s puzzled expression.

“Because he mentioned that I apparently remind him of someone.”

His forehead creased. Shingen didn’t know Kenshin was that careless… or was it the influence of alcohol? No, he wasn’t that invulnerable. Maybe he was just flustered by having to face this young woman whose eyes almost have an uncanny resemblance as hers—

“Ah,” he muttered, getting the answer, “I’m sorry, my angel, but I don’t think I have an idea.”

“Oh…” She frowned, remembering the expression he wore when they rode back home. “I wonder if it’s someone he cherished…”

“Now you’re just breaking my heart.” He feigned a hurt expression. Katsumi blinked at him blankly. A very unforgiving reaction, he thought. “All this time you’ve been with me, you speak about Kenshin.”

“Uh, I didn’t mean—” Heat crept up on the apples of her cheeks as she denied it. Her hands frantically made gestures out of panic. “I just… he looked so sad that time, so I wondered if… you know…”

“Sad, huh?” Shingen repeated. A mirthless laugh escaped his lips.

“Well, he does want to die.”

“…Excuse me?” She looked at him for confirmation. Shingen turned around and began walking forward, away from that tree that seemed to have the magic to make them say things they didn’t want to. “Shingen, what did you say—”

“Let’s go, my angel.” He insisted, briefly glancing behind his broad shoulder to face her. “We’ll speak while walking. I still need to make you forget about Kenshin while we are together.”

But you just made me want to think about him more!

Katsumi didn’t want to be too insistent, but she was too confused. Eventually, she spotted a brown-haired youth marching towards them. He was not happy at all.

“Lord Shingen!”

“Ah, Yuki!” Shingen seemed unbothered by the young man’s annoyance. “I was just about to introduce you to Katsumi—”

At the mention of a woman’s name, Yukimura turned to Katsumi as if he just noticed her there. He took a step back.

“Ah—sorry!”

“Yuki, how could not notice an angel’s presence in front of you?” The Tiger of Kai unhappily scolded Yukimura. “Katsumi, this is Yuki, my vassal.”

“N-Nice to meet you.”

Yukimura found it unsettling to see her bow to him politely, so he roughly asked her to raise her head. Honestly, when Sasuke told them to be gentle with her, he didn’t expect her to be this— delicate? It was like he couldn’t help but be different around her. Ah, this is why he can’t deal with women.

“A-Anyway, my lord! We have business to attend to!”

He stared eagerly at his lord, and Shingen sighed in distress. “I apologize, my angel. It seems I must see to this urgently.”

“Oh, please. I don’t mind at all. Thank you for your time.” She bowed.

“Well then, do you intend to show that appreciation later—”

“LORD SHINGEN!”

“Yuki, that was a little too loud.” Shingen complained, as Yukimura sighed loudly before turning to Katsumi with an apologetic expression.

“Don’t mind him.”

Without another word, Yukimura dragged his esteemed lord away as Katsumi stayed to watch them quietly. She wondered why she seems to keep meeting such weird people.

Finding herself all alone, she began walking again. She passed through a slightly open door and spots a familiar face inside. Pausing at her tracks, she saw Kenshin sitting in front of a desk, looking through several papers with a noticeable array of decanters by his side.

“Do you need something, woman?”

She flinched as he acknowledged her presence. “Sorry, I was just passing by—”

“Well, he does want to die.”

Katsumi pressed her lips together. Kenshin looked up from the document in his hand and waited for her to speak.

“A-Actually… I wanted to apologize for causing you trouble.” She said, eyes avoiding his stoic gaze. “I realized that I bothered you and wasted your time by running away and having you come for me. I acted childish and played hard to get.”

He didn’t speak. She continued. “I… I have a hard time dealing with men. I hope you can forgive me.”

“Come.”

She lifted her gaze to find him setting the papers aside to bring out the decanter of sake and a jar of pickled plums. He gestured the spot in front of him, and just like that, she stepped inside.

With the desk separating them, she settled in front of him. He brought out two sake cups.

“Frankly, I don’t care about your reasons.” Kenshin proceeded to pour a helping for himself. “My demands are baseless in itself. The apology you offer is meaningless.”

She watched him quietly as he gracefully took a sip. Strangely enough, his brusque manner of speech doesn’t bother her anymore. He glanced at her, then at the remaining cup.

“You should know that I will not pour for you.”

Katsumi regarded the empty cup, wondering if it was his way of inviting her to drink. However, Kenshin misinterpreted her reluctance.

“I am not interested in women,” he said, “much less taking advantage of them.”

Now she was more confused. Did he just try to reassure her?

“Why drink with me?”

“I’m bored.” He coolly replied. “Shingen refused to spar with me. Sasuke and Yukimura are preparing to set off to Azuchi.”

She was unsure of herself, but she gradually reached for the sake and poured herself a cup half full.

“…and I have the right to know about you.”

She paused to look at him. “About me?”

“In a battle, it’s best to have information.” Kenshin suddenly came back as his usual battle-loving self. “I know nothing about you. You are here to give me the information I need.”

The mention of battle left a bad aftertaste in her mouth, but she acknowledged how his words, no matter how peculiar its use sounds to her, has this certain charisma to it. Like it has the divine power to make anyone believe and follow him. Because look at her now, defenseless in front of the God of War, yet she wasn’t feeling afraid.

“When dusk arrives, you are free to leave.”

And there it is again. It somehow felt like he was assuring her, but she somehow knew that if she tried to confirm, he will most likely deny it.

She felt defeated, and yet she doesn’t mind.

“…Thanks for the consideration.”

And she takes the cup.

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