#Mitsuhide Akechi || Lost in Translation

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Mitsuhide Akechi Sequel

Translations may not always capture the exact nuances or tone of the original text. Expect grammatical errors and inaccuracies.

This is a full translation of Chapter 3, Part 2. Spoilers ahead.

Keiji: "Hey, Mai, Ranmaru!"

We bumped into Keiji, who was, for some reason, carrying a sack of rice on his shoulder.

Mai: "Keiji, perfect timing! Actually—"

Keiji: "You guys are the ones who showed up at the right time! Come with me for a bit."

Ranmaru: "Lord Keiji, we don't have time for this—hey, stop pulling me!"

Keiji: "Just come along. I'll listen to whatever you have to say while I'm making rice balls."

Masamune: "That's a hundred done. Take them."

(Rice balls?)

-----------------

Masamune's retainers: "Yes, sir!"

Ranmaru: "What's with this huge pile of rice balls!?"

Masamune: "It's for relief efforts. Even though the fire was put out, many people in the castle town lost their homes."

Masamune: "People can't do anything on an empty stomach."

Ranmaru: "I guess that's true."

Keiji: "Masamune, should I at least rinse the extra rice for now?"

Masamune: "Yeah, I’ll leave it to you."

Mai: "Keiji, you're also good at cooking?"

Keiji: "I'm just mimicking Masamune, but I don't mind doing this kind of stuff."

Keiji: "It's fun, like a festival."

His smile, like fireworks lighting up the night, lifted my spirits.

(It's amazing how he finds happiness in any situation.)

(I should follow his example. Dwelling on things will only wear me out.)

Masamune: "If you're free, you two should lend a hand."

Mai: "Sure."

Mai: "But while we're cooking, there's something I'd like to talk about."

Masamune: "What is it?"

Masamune: "Signs of rebellion in neighboring territories? Well, that's not surprising."

Even as I explained, neither Masamune nor Keiji showed any sign of alarm and continued to make rice balls.

Keiji: "That intel just came my way a little while ago."

Keiji: "I've already informed Lord Nobunaga."

Mai: "I see, that's good to hear."

Keiji: "Apparently, the rebels have no connection to Kicho or Motonari."

Masamune: "They're probably trying to take advantage of the chaos of the attack on Azuchi Castle to make a name for themselves."

Keiji: "Yeah."

Keiji: "It's not just the daimyo. Bandits and Ronin have gathered and started calling themselves rebel armies."

(The situation is more serious than I heard in town.)

Ranmaru: "If you already knew that much, we didn't have to rush back."

Keiji: "No, I'm glad you told me about the situation in town."

Keiji: "Now I know the information about the rebel armies is spreading faster than I thought."

Masamune: "This is getting fishy."

Keiji: "Yeah."

Ranmaru: "Fishy?"

Ranmaru: "You mean there's a possibility that Kicho and Motonari are involved in the rise of these rebel armies after all?"

(Huh?)

Keiji: "As expected from Lord Nobunaga's favorite page! You're not just a pretty face."

Ranmaru: "Of course! Being cute, cool, and smart is my charm, after all."

Keiji and Ranmaru spoke in their usual cheerful voices, but the eerie feeling that followed the attack began to take shape, weighing heavily on my heart.

Masamune: "Mai, open your mouth."

Mai: "Huh? Ah!"

He suddenly tossed a pickled turnip into my mouth.

When I instinctively bit into it, a sweet and sour taste spread across my tongue.

Masamune: "Is it good?"

Mai: "Yeah, it's delicious."

Masamune: "Looks like you haven't eaten much since this morning."

Mai: "Now that you mention it, I've been so busy, I forgot."

(I didn't even realize I looked pale.)

Masamune: "Let's take a break and eat."

Ranmaru: "I'm starving."

Keiji: "Alright, time to eat!"

We gathered in the corner of the kitchen and sat down around the table together.

(Eating is really important.)

As I was realizing this, Masamune suddenly peered at my face.

Masamune: "Where's Mitsuhide?"

Keiji: "Now that you mention it, we haven't seen him around these past few days."

Mai: "He's probably out gathering information. I don't know exactly where he is, though."

Ranmaru: "If you don't know where he is, then no one does."

(I haven't seen him since we returned to Azuchi.)

(Maybe he's investigating the rebel armies.)

Mai: "Thank you for the meal. I'll clean up the dishes."

As I carried the dishes and stood by the sink,

Masamune: "Huh? Mai, where are you?"

(Huh?)

Keiji: "You're right, she's not here."

Ranmaru: "Lady Mai?"

Mai: "Um, I'm right here."

Ranmaru: "Huh? You're right next to us, but why didn't we notice?"

Masamune: "Did you just vanish for a moment?"

Mai: "No, I'm not a ninja!"

Keiji: "Right. Even ninjas can't pull that off."

Keiji: "The only ones who could vanish and reappear like that are ghosts."

(Ghosts...)

His casual words stirred something uneasy in my heart.

Ranmaru: "Maybe the light outside was too bright?"

Keiji: "Yeah, probably. I should eat more and build up my strength."

Masamune: "............"

(Everyone's been so busy lately. They must be getting exhausted. It's probably nothing to worry about.)

I told myself that at the time. But...

The next time that happened was while I was standing in the hallway of Azuchi Castle, talking to Ieyasu and Mitsunari.

Mai: "We should have enough medicine to distribute tomorrow, but could I ask for more to be delivered the day after?"

Mitsunari: "Okay. Huh?"

Ieyasu: "Eh? Mai?"

Mai: "Yeah, what is it?"

Mitsunari: "Lady Mai?"

(Why are they both looking around like that?)

Mai: "Ieyasu, Mitsunari?"

Ieyasu & Mitsunari: "!"

Ieyasu: "Where were you just now?"

Mai: "What do you mean where? I've been standing here the whole time."

Mitsunari: "Really? I could have sworn I lost sight of you. I must've blacked out."

Ieyasu: "I can see Mitsunari zoning out, but I lost track of you for a second too, Mai."

Mai: "I see."

(This is like what happened in the kitchen earlier.)

Mai: "Maybe it's just eye strain? You two have been looking super busy lately."

Mitsunari: "That could be it. Sorry for worrying you."

Ieyasu: "..........."

The next time it happened was when I visited Hideyoshi's mansion.

Mai: "Excuse me, I brought the kimono you asked."

Hideyoshi: "............"

(Huh? Did he not hear me? Was my voice too quiet? It's rare to see him smoking his pipe like this.)

Mai: "Hideyoshi?"

Hideyoshi: "............"

(He seems really focused. I'll just leave the package with one of his retainers and head out so I don't disturb him.)

I was about to close the sliding door when...

(What if he really couldn't see me?)

A sense of unease crept over me, and I moved around to face him.

Mai: "Um, Hideyoshi!"

Hideyoshi: "............"

(It's like he really can't see me. He can't hear me either.)

My heart tightened.

Mai: "Hideyoshi!"

Hideyoshi: "Mai!? When did you—"

Hideyoshi, with wide eyes, quickly dropped the ash from his pipe.

Finally, our gazes met, and I felt all the tension leave my body.

(Thank goodness.)

Mai: "Sorry for interrupting while you were working. I called out to you several times."

Hideyoshi: "I'm the one who should apologize. I can't believe I didn't hear your voice."

Hideyoshi: "No, it's not that I didn't hear you."

Hideyoshi: "I really must be losing it."

Mai: "How did I look to you just now?"

Hideyoshi: "This might sound strange, but it felt like you suddenly appeared in front of me."

Hideyoshi: "Out of nowhere."

(Out of nowhere...?)

Hideyoshi: "I'm sorry, I really shouldn't have made you feel uncomfortable."

Mai: "It's not your fault, Hideyoshi."

Hideyoshi: "Huh?"

Mai: "Actually, this isn't the first time something like this has happened."

Hideyoshi: "It's not the first time?"

(I should probably tell him.)

(It's better to tell him now rather than risk causing more worry if it happens again.)

I opened up to him about everything that had happened so far.

Besides what happened in the kitchen and the castle hallway, there were several times when my fellow seamstresses couldn't find me even though I was right in front of them.

Hideyoshi: "It doesn't seem like it can be easily dismissed as a mistake."

Hideyoshi: "What does Mitsuhide say about this?"

(That's...)

Mai: "He's been so busy lately that I haven't had a chance to talk to him about it yet."

Hideyoshi: "At a time like this, I can't believe that guy is still...!"

Mai: "It's fine. I understand it's a difficult time for both Mitsuhide and the Oda army."

(Actually, it's probably better that I haven't seen him lately.)

(If I had,I wouldn't be able to stop myself from consulting him.)

I didn't want him to hold back from going on his missions for my sake.

I wanted Mitsuhide to live as he pleased.

Hideyoshi: "I'll ask Kyubei to pass the message to Mitsuhide."

Mai: "But..."

Hideyoshi: "If he's the kind of man who would leave you anxious and alone, then I'll kick him out of Azuchi for good."

Hideyoshi softened his gaze after saying that with a stern expression.

Hideyoshi: "He won't listen to me no matter how much I nag him, but if it's for you, he'll come back."

Hideyoshi: "I'll report this to Lord Nobunaga as well, so don't try to handle this on your own."

Mai: "Thank you."

Nobunaga: "So, something strange has happened to Mai?"

Hideyoshi: "Yes."

I bowed deeply before Nobunaga.

Mai: "Thank you so much for taking the time to listen."

The rumors I had heard in town turned out to be true, with small rebel factions springing up around Azuchi.

For now, they had only issued statements, but we couldn't predict when a military clash might occur.

(I don't want to worry everyone at a time like this.)

No matter how much I held back, I knew they wouldn't leave me to face it alone.

The warlords of the Oda army are kind-hearted people like that.

(I'll just honestly accept their help.)

Nobunaga: "Hideyoshi, you too witnessed Mai disappearing?"

Hideyoshi: "Yes. Yesterday, at my mansion."

Hideyoshi: "!"

Nobunaga: "..........."

Mai: "Hideyoshi? Nobunaga?"

(Don't tell me it's happening again?)

A cold shiver ran through me, draining the warmth from my fingertips.

Mai: "I'm here! Can you see me? Can you hear my voice?"

I spoke, trembling, but neither Nobunaga nor Hideyoshi responded, both wearing tense expressions as they looked around, unable to meet my gaze.

(They can't see and hear me.)

Driven by fear, I stood up and rushed toward them.

Mai: "I'm here!"

I shouted, reaching out toward Nobunaga, but in the next instant—

(!?)

My fingers slipped past his broad shoulders, and I lost my balance, collapsing onto the tatami.

Mai: "Ugh..."

Nobunaga: "Mai?"

Hideyoshi: "Are you okay!? How did you end up behind Lord Nobunaga?"

As they helped me up, the tremors wouldn't stop.

Mai: "It's not that I walked behind him. It's more like I passed right through him."

Hideyoshi: "Passed right through?"

Nobunaga: "Mai."

Mai: "Yes?"

Nobunaga: "If something like this happens again, report it immediately."

I hesitated to respond, and Nobunaga, seemingly aware of my reluctance, continued.

Nobunaga: "Your safety is the safety of the Oda army. Do you understand?"

Mai: "Yes. Thank you."

Hideyoshi: "Mai, you've got us on your side."

Their gazes warmed me, and I barely managed to nod, desperately holding back tears.

As soon as I returned to my room, I immediately grabbed the Travel Guide.

(It was after returning to Azuchi that I started becoming invisible to those around me.)

(And the strange happenings with the travel guide started around the same time. Maybe there's a connection?)

(If that's the case...)

The face of my only modern friend flashed in my mind, sending a chill down my spine.

(What if something's happening to Sasuke too? I have to tell him quickly!)

A few days after sending a letter to Echigo, I found myself lost in thought.

Suddenly, a knock came from the attic. Startled, I looked up, and the hatch swung open.

Sasuke: "Mai, good evening."

Mai: "Sasuke!?"

Sasuke landed gracefully, lowering his mask.

Sasuke: "I came."

Mai: "You came!"

Sasuke: "I wanted to talk directly instead of replying. Sorry for the sudden visit."

Mai: "It's okay, thank you for coming!"

Mai: "So, has anything strange happened? You came from the future like me, so I was really worried!"

Sasuke: "I'm fine. Nothing unusual has happened to me."

Mai: "I'm glad to hear that."

Sasuke: "About the other strange thing you mentioned in the letter..."

Sasuke: "Can I see the Travel Guide?"

Mai: "Sure, here you go."

His expression hardened as he looked down at the blank pages.

Sasuke: "............"

Mai: "Did you figure something out?"

Sasuke: "No, not exactly."

His words came out strangely hesitant.

(Is he hesitating to talk?)

Just as I sensed that, the sliding door opened.

Mitsuhide: "Let me hear that story as well."

Sasuke: "!"

(Mitsuhide!)

[koorinohebi]

@virusvirtue

"the fuck is Pocky day?" (izo @ omi)

“The King orders you to bring her her favorite thing to-- ah, and they’re gone...”

---

Maybe that was an unreasonable request. Kiomi had an idea for what she wanted to get, cherries in particular, but with neither of them knowing that little fact, maybe it was a little bit unfair, and the reason why they were taking so long to get back.

Today was the day when the magus swallowed her pride and decided to just give Takechi some slack-- giving him a chance to prove that he’s a little better than what she took him for on account that it had been requested of her... and who was she to deny the heart-felt plea of the one person that she couldn’t seem to say no to? So yes, she had to make good on her promise. However, to be frank. Now that she was in the process of spending time with him and Mitsuhide, Takechi wasn’t all that bad. He was surprisingly gentle and agreeable, based on the orders that he gave when he played King. They were a little more reasonable than Mitsuhide’s... but every command so far was executable enough for her not to hold a grudge on either of them. Still, to think that the three of them could actually just enjoy the day without getting in each other’s throats. It wasn’t bad. It wasn’t a bad way to spend their day off at all.

“Ah, but they sure are taking long.” She muttered to herself, as she grabbed a box of pocky, opened it and indulged herself with a stick or two; all the while laying down on the bed and staring at the ceiling. Chocolate biscuits were nice every once in a while, and today was Pocky Day so she had quite a bit on her even after setting up a small table of the celebrated treats for both children and adults to partake in.

“I’m back! Do you know how hard it was to find these?”

“I have returned, my lord. Do you know how hard it was to find him?”

Eh? What? Him? What????

Sitting right back up in mid munch, Kiomi sees that one servant actually got the King’s command correct while the other, well--

I said eat Ruler, eat! This is because you ran off without letting me finish!

Is this no good, Master?

With her brow twitching, the girl relented from answering Takechi via their telepathic link and instead declared Mitsuhide the winner of the round for bringing in her favorite thing to eat, which were cherries. Now, it wasn’t like Ruler brought something unsatisfactory, in fact it was too good, but she kind of felt bad that the confused looking servant got roped in on their shenanigans.

“I’m sorry that Ruler had to drag you in like this, Izo. But since you’re already here, do you want to play with us?” She asked, while receiving the handful of berries from Mitsuhide while Takechi prepared the lots to be drawn for the next round. “We’re currently playing King’s Game, but if you stick around for a bit longer, we’ll be playing some card games next.” She said, pointing over to the table that housed a pack of cards.

“Last round for King’s Game then?” The Ruler confirmed to which both Kiomi and Caster nodded their heads. Bringing the pieces of paper over, the three of them drew their respective pieces and once again-- “You guys suck. I’m running out of orders to give you.” The girl ended up as the King. “Well, that just means fate is giving me a chance to win over Caster.” And with a visible wrinkle of the brow, the Akechi motioned for him to bring it on, clearly accepting the challenge.

But what to make them do? Folding her arms over her chest, the magus thought for a moment. It was really difficult when she’s been giving orders consecutively. “Hmn...” It was then that her eyes strayed over to her discarded box of pocky, and thus an idea came to mind. “Well, since today is Pocky day, you two go play the Pocky game.”

“The fuck is Pocky day?” She heard Izo ask, along with the other two asking what the Pocky game was.

Turning to Izo, she began. “Well, Pocky Day is-- it’s not exactly a festival or anything grand, but it’s a day where most people throw a party just to eat, play, and share this with each other.” Grabbing a hold of her box of pocky, she showed it to the Hitokiri. “This is pocky. It’s basically a snack that’s coated in chocolate. But it also does come in various flavors. And as for what the pocky game is,” This time she looked over to where Takechi and Mitsuhide were, so that she could explain the mechanics to them.

“The basic gist is that first one to get to the center wins.” And when she mentioned the center, they simply lofted a brow at her. “What do you mean center?” Caster asks.

“Center. Center. What is so hard to understand, Jubei?” To demonstrate, Kiomi took a piece of the pocky and waved Takechi over. “Bite this end, please.” She said, to which the Ruler complied obediently. “So Mitsuhide, you bite this other end and first one to get to the center without breaking it wins. If you break it, you lose.”

“...” There was a momentary stretch of silence after the whole thing was explained.

“WHY DO WE HAVE TO DO THIS STUPID GAME?!”

“WHY DO I HAVE TO BE THE ONE TO PLAY THIS PREPOSTEROUS GAME WITH HIM?”

“Because you both suck at drawing lots and lost the chance to be king, now play. Besides, didn't you say you were going to beat Caster this time around? Now get to it.” And this just felt like the most awful scenario for the heroic spirits that had to go through with the order. If they didn’t the penalty was a shot of liquor and both servants didn’t want to take the shot. While neither of them knew that this was each other’s weakness, they didn’t want it exposed. So the choice--- there was no choice. So begrudgingly, each of them took to the end of the pocky and began nibbling, the most careful and tension filled nibbling that Kiomi has ever seen...that she didn’t have the heart to look any longer otherwise she’d burst into both laughter and tears.

Taking a piece of the pocky herself, Kiomi glanced at the assassin’s way briefly. I wonder if I could... Well, Kiomi herself has never played the game before, often just content sharing the snacks. But today, she somehow felt like she too, wanted to try it. She pursed her lips a little before finally breaking the silence to try and get the manslayer’s attention.

“Betcha I can beat you in that game, Izo.” She waved her piece of pocky then, challenging him nonchalantly as she tried appealing to the servant’s gambling streak and competitiveness. “If you win, not only will I give you the best sake in my collection, I’ll also sponsor your gambling for a month.” And if she won, well... she didn’t really think that far ahead yet, but she’ll just think about that later. “What say you, Saber? Care to play a round with me?”

[koorinohebi]

a joint effort (by which I mean I just provided the images) by me and @hasmataharidoneanythingwrong

[gobureis]

Samurai Warriors 5

A pig-headed person’s reason: Oda Nobunaga x Akechi Mitsuhide event (translation)

There aren’t necessarily spoilers for SW5′s main story but it’s a background to something that’s used in the story.

---

Nobunaga: Mitsuhide, I know you’re obstinate and pig-headed but stop being so obsessive about introducing yourself on the battlefield. It’s useless.

Mitsuhide: Sorry, but I refuse. This is something I’m not giving up.

Nobunaga: Why? The Genpei* warriors have this kind of etiquette, but in the present world there is no reason to introduce yourself.

Nobunaga: Isn’t it better to cut down your opponents quickly without intentionally letting them guard themselves?

Mitsuhide: I’m not being obsessive about etiquette. I simply want to tell my opponent my name.

Nobunaha: Oooh?

Mitsuhide: Those who lost their lives without knowing who killed them, don’t even know who they should resent. It’s piteous.

Nobunaga: It’s a reason I don’t quite understand, but I got that that’s something you won’t give up on. Do what you want.

---

*samurai from the Kamakura period [Genpei = Minamoto + Taira]

[stealinghero]

Any headcanons on the pasts of some of the characters? Like there is the historical stuff but like, there isn't a ton of information that I could find on certain characters like Magoichi (cuz woman lol) and Kasuga (cuz never existed) and Kojuro (since multiple people carried the name I guess?). Anyway, any headcanons on anyone would be fun if you want to add any additional people :)

Ohh, general headcanons are always great!! I’ll just write down what comes to mind! I tried to include their past if possible. (Edit: I won’t tag this post with very individual, because there are simply too many!)

It’s under a cut because this will be freaking HUGE!!

Akechi Mitsuhide:

- he opted for his scythes because his wrists aren’t strong enough for fighting with a sword. he usually uses long weapons and likes the aesthetic of a scythe, cutting down people like corn because they are just as “worthless”.

- his hair colour is an effect of an genetic dysfunction and has been white/grey from his early childhood on.

- he is allergic to peaches.

- his past is a mystery and he will rather die than tell anyone about it (he acutally had a great upbringing with lots of love, but when his mother was killed, he changed)

Chosokabe Motochika:

- has a pet parrot and loves it to bits. Actually it’s a family he cares for and raises on his own.

- his normally black hair is bleached and styled to make him look more like a demon, he once saw a sailor do this with a face paint of a skeleton. Young Motochika was so impressed (and afraid) that he copied the style. On special occasions he still paints his face like a skull.

- he can juggle but not stand on one leg.

- if he gets a partner, his crew has to approve them first before he considers dating

- he fled from home because of all the responsibilities and made his crew his family. That’s why he’s the big brother and not their father figure, he still detsts his own father.

Date Masamune:

- he is afraid of chicken. Nothing too serious but he will never hold one or be close to one if he can opt out. As a kid he got pecked bloody by a swarm of them and he never got over it

- he loves to prank Kojuro and will get hit and scolded for it. Still he does it, especially if Kojuro is stressed to make him laugh.

- he doesn’t like the most types of sweets and dislikes honey. But he can bite into a lemon and keep a straight face.

- he upholds traditions and visits the shrines of his province on a regular basis. The priests know not to bother him with bad omens as he might be traditional but not really religious.

- he has a knack for learning languages and can imitate most dialects of Japan.

Fuma Kotaro:

- he is the funniest guy alive!! This man can tell the best jokes and keep a straight face while doing so.

- he has a small family that he loves to bits. Whatever his parents want from him, he will do it.

- he was raised strict (outside) and very beloved (inside), making it easy for him to think outside of the box. He follows orders on his own terms and this is what makes him dangerous.

- his upbringing is his guideline for leading his men. He will acknowledge those who follow his orders and will punsh those who don’t. He’s always fair and tries to find the best result for all included

Honda Tadakatsu:

- he can speak if he wants. But often he thinks his opinion is too insignificant to make public so he remains silent.

- to be honest: he is the best singer. He has a nice deep voice and will often hum or sing melancholic songs.

- he trains up to 20 hours per day to keep his body and soul at its peak condition. His training consists of lifting weights, sparring with sword and bare hands, meditation, reflection of his past flaws.

- he is a bit vain and loves to hear even the mightiest warlords praise him, so he gives his all to maintain his status

- he isn’t too fond of Ieyasu’s way of thinking of friendship and peace as he is a man of war. But he would never defy Ieyasu.

Ishida Mitsunari:

- grew up as an orphan and was taken in by Toyotomi’s family. That’s the reason he’s loyal to Hideyoshi. He sees him as a brother (even if Mitsunari doesn’t think himself as a Toyotomi)

- he uses a tachi because his shoulders aren’t the strongest although he has a good core strength. He needs the length to deliver fast and heavy strikes using the momentum of his sword.

- he loves math and can calculate even huge sums in his head

- he has a stutter that gets worse when he’s aggravated and it takes a lot of willpower and concentration in order not to show it too much

Kasuga:

- in order to live amogst men a woman has to be tough and Kasuga went through an even harsher training than her male colleagues, making her harder than she looks

- but inside she is a very girlish girl and wants to be a princess. Uesugi is the perfect prince for this daydream and that’s the main reason she stays with him even if she knows she has no chance.

- she is as deadly as any Shinobi and she hates if her colleagues make fun of her because she shows more skin/curves without realizing this is also a form of camouflage to lull the enemy into a relaxed and trusting state.

- she grew up without parents (as most Shinobi do) and has no desire to meet them. She hates them for abandoning her

- she sees Sasuke as an annoying little brother. Other than him she doesn’t have any ties.

Katakura Kojuro:

- at 5 years old he climbed a tree because of a dare and had to be saved by Masamune’s father because he was too afraid to come down. He still has fear of heights and a horse is the highest he can get without being anxious.

- in his youth he broke every bone in his body at least once. Often there were multiple fractures at once. He was lanky and clumsy until his early 20s and people loved to compare him to a newborn foal, some old people still call him like that, embarrassing him

- he has a good medical knowledge and might have become a doctor if not for his duty. he still is the number one in caring for Masamune and only if he deems it impossible, he will call for a real doctor. Without knowing this, people tend to think Masamune’s wounds heal by themselves and he only needs assistance when near death.

- he is an open book to read if there are strong emotions. Normally everyone at court knows how he feels by just looking at him. if needed he has a really good pokerface, but doesn’t use it very often. He simply doesn’t care.

- his nickname at court (behind his back) is Raba (translating to mule) because he is stubborn and a workaholic. Some even joke about other similarities between them, but these are the most common.

Maeda Keiji & Toshiie & Matsu: 

- Keiji found his little pet Yumekichi on a market in Kyoto where he was sold with his half-dead mother. Despite Keiji’s efforts to save the mother she died a few days later, but Yumekichi got better and sees Keiji as his family.

- Keiji is afraid of an angry Matsu and opts to run away from her rather than from Toshiie

- he might seem a bit carefree and stupid sometimes and he admits he’s not the brigthest. But he’s smart enough to survive with his lifestyle in this time and is pretty proud of it.

- Toshiie worries a lot about Keiji and wants him home because of this. He couldn’t bear to lose Keiji who he sees more as a brother than a nephew.

- he is alway asking for more food of Matsu because he’s afraid that one day he might not be able to eat her food anymore. It’s like he thinks he can “save” the taste of it in his brain forever.

- In her youth Matsu couldn’t cook. She learned it for Toshiie and is always on the search for new ideas and recipes to surprise him with.

- she has strong motherly feelings for Keiji with results in her scolding him more often than Toshiie despite Keiji being only a bit younger than she is

Matsunaga Hisahide:

- he grew up without his parents caring too much. But they were rich and he from early on learned that money IS power. People can be paid to like you, to kill for you, to die for you.

- there are many legends about his fight with Nobunaga and both of the most common are actually true. Nobunaga let him live, thinking he was “interesting” but only because Hisahide matched his strength and power, almost equalling the Demon King.

- he is stronger than he looks and is prepared for the day when money won’t hold his army down. he’s a skilled fighter with almost every weapon but he dislikes the guns Nobunaga’s so fond of. They have no style, he thinks.

- what is in his possession will remain there. he will defend his collection with everything he has. This man can go toe to toe with the biggest warlords of his time and he’s not afraid to demonstrate his power over a thing he had almost forgotten. It’s HIS and he will kill for it (or make someone do it)

- he is the most intelligent of them and often ruthless, making him an enemy nobody wants to have.

Mori Motonari:

- if he would live in modern times, he would be the bullied nerd with thick rimmed glasses and suspenders

- he grew up in a very protected house without too much care and love, making him self-sufficient. Paired with his intelligence that almost equals that of Matsunaga, he is a terrible foe if there wasn’t a huge mistake in his plans: emotions.

- he struggles to keep his army in check simply because he can’t lie like a Matsunaga or Oda. he will tell his soldiers bluntly that they are worthless to him when they are defeated. Strangely this statement makes him a good leader who will risk much to gain much. His men follow him because they most often are rewarded for their wounds or lost comrades.

- he has a problem with emotions and doesn’t understand sarcasm. That’s a reason why he hates Motochika so much. But this makes him honest to a fault, too. if someone asks his opinion he will answer truthfully, sometimes making this person change plans.

Oda Nobunaga & Oichi:

- those two are the most identical siblings after twins, even if it might seem different on the outside.

- Nobunaga cares for his sister and doesn’t want her hurt and Oichi is more of an evil mastermind than she appears to be.

- from early on those two spent lots of time together, playing pranks on the retainers and their own family. They grew up in an actually caring family making people wonder sometimes how they became like this when they had grown up.

- the motives are most often pride and an arrogance/belief everything should be theirs. Even the “little princess” Oichi defended her dolls with claws and teeth if she had to.

- while the Lady Oichi hides her true ambition she sometimes is jealous of her brother who shows them to everyone and succeeding with it. She hates him for being a man whereas she’s just a woman to be played as he wants.

- he had many options to marry his sister to but he chose not the best one but the one that would care the most for her. He would never admit that.

- they both have emotions and those are very strong but most of the times they are not controlled or even guided and most often end in bloodshed.

Otani Yoshitsugu:

- with his childhood a miserable time for him because of his disease (leprosy) he hid himself behind books, learning about the world, the history of it and other useful things

- he isn’t the smartest but one of the most versatile to use his resources, making him flexible in any given situation

- he is a great strategist with his vast knowledge and by being able to get in someone’s thinking, he is able to differ his strategy for any opponent. He has a great work of spies and often knows how a lord will act

- he loves being outside in the sun. His bandages are a hindrance to him but he doesn’t dare to take them off. He likes to sit in the sun for hours, reading.

Saika Magoichi:

- she grew up in the same village as Motochika, knowing him since childhood

- as an orphan living on the streets, she tried her best to find something close to a family. She reufed Motochika’s offer to join his crew, wanting to be independent

- she never trained enough to fight with a sword but can use a Tanto quite skillfully. When she heard about guns, she begged Motochika to get her two. Since then she was fascinated by those things.

- while she actually used one of the guns, she completely disassembled the other, learning all about the mechanics involved. by now she can not only build them but also has her own mixture of gunpowder thats’s a bit more explosive than the usual.

- she was officially invited to have a talk with Nobunaga and they remained friends until he died. They exchanged various types of guns and Nobunaga even invited her to join his army as an advisor because of her extensive knowledge of firearms.

Sanada Yukimura:

- his allround emotion is determination and happiness, often getting on the nerves of people around him with his seemingly undisturbed energy. This is only a facade he keeps up in order not to think too much about things he can’t change.

- he admires Kojuro as a man he can never be and often tries to talk to him about his views on the world, hoping to learn a lot from it that would allow him to grow not only as a soldier but as a man

- despite the differences of rank and class, he thinks of Sasuke as his brother and is closer to him than to his actual brother Nobuyuki

- he is not afraid to admit his faults and does his best to learn how to be better. But sometimes it frustrated him not being able to be a good person in his own eyes

Sarutobi Sasuke:

- contrary to his beloved legend of being raised by monkeys, he grew up as an orphan in a village of Shinobi until he was 10.

- he hasn’t many people he really trusts but is relieved if he can rely on Kasuga or Takeda (sometimes even Sanada)

- he loves to spend his free time fishing and is quite good at spearfishing.

- he wants to stay mysterious and doesn’t share much of his own history but his body is almost without a scar while his name is often whispered with fear, showing what kind of fighter he is

- he doesn’t talk much about himself mainl because ther is nothing to talk about. He sees himself as a bit boring and his life is filled with his duties. Sometimes he envies Kojuro but has to admit he would’ve strangled Masamune years ago.

Takeda Shingen:

- he resents his own father and wanted to be a better father to Yukimura, thus their strange relationship despite being Lord and General.

- he likes tigers and had at least one as pet throughout his life, spanning the same tiger family over generations.

- he’s very conflicted about his rivalry with Kenshin. He respects the man as a fellow warrior and even wants Yukimura to be a bit like him, but deep down he never got over the fact that Uesugi killed his younger brother. he doesn’t know what he should do and this is why he stays the same: fighting with him without too many emotions.

- he is fond of horses and is a skillful breeder. His horses are very renowned as the best warhorses. He wants to survive this in the future to remind the following generations of him being a gentle animal friend and not only the warlord (even if he is very proud of his victories)

Takenaka Hanbei:

- in his childhood and youth he was a normal kid, growing up in a normal family. He was never the best or the worst but he got bored of it as soon as he heard of the “adventures” of Nobunaga.

- he always was a quick thinker, not overly intelligent but flexible and in this way outwitted whole armies, gaining him a name and reputation to use for his rise to the top.

- he never wanted to be a warlord. He swore himself that he would be the best adviser/strategist because he thought he would be worth more like this in any fight for survival. Every warlord needs an advisor, right?

- his loyalty for Toyotomi is mostly an act. He hates brutes without brains as it is intelligence that wins a war and not strength alone. This is a reason he respects people like Motonari or Kojuro.

Tokugawa Ieyasu:

- as a kid he lived with dangerous surroundings. One wrong word could mean war and Ieyasu was right between the conflicted sides, making him yearn for bonds and friends he could trust.

- normally he is outgoing but he often still sees the world as black and white, making it hard to discuss things with him in a calm manner. Luckily he tends to flare up quickly and also come down as fast, being his old self

- behind his smiles there is a machine working day and night. he has his goals and will not rest before getting there, sometimes making it hard for people to follow him. He doesn’t understand that fact and tends to think they are against him, resulting in various consequences

- he wants friends he can trust but he will never trust somebody. he did it in the past and he was left down by these friends, making his walls harder and thicker to get through

- his personality would be somewhere between a tantrum throwing child in the sweets aisle and a ruthless dictator, solely depending on his mood.

Toyotomi Hideyoshi:

- with his past an open secret he has no remorse in being like he is, seeing no other option anyway.

- being a ruthless warlord doesn’t mean being without emotions and he still cares a lot for his army. He knows a few soldiers by name and will often wander around the camp, asking here and there if everything is alright or something is needed.

- he doesn’t have friends anymore and the friendliest he can get with someone is by calling them “advisor”, even if he’s not bound to listen to their words. he doesn’t trust anyone around him and this makes him successful in leading an army, not trusting the enemy will make the same mistake twice or behave “as always”.

- he doesn’t know if he should kill Matsunaga for changing him or be thankful. He normally tries to stay away from him as far as possible. He might even command his army to take a detour to avoid Hisahide’s territory.

Uesugi Kenshin:

- he loves to fuck with people’s thoughts to make them think they are smarter/more powerful/faster than him, only for him to strike them down as easy as he can. This is the truth behind his title and his favourite saying about it is: “I can be an generous god. Or a cruel one. It depends solely on you.”

- there are no feelings involved, not with Kasuga, not with Shingen. He simply enjoys his power over them, using them as he likes to amuse himself. At least this is when he’s not defending his territory. Then he will be ruthless and strike quick, not caring much about alliances or promises.

- despite being like that he truly stands up for what he believes, only because he thinks whatever he believes is the right thing. he doesn’t care much about any other viewpoints and can be called stubborn at it.

- yet he has a certain respect for every living thing, even if some humans are seen as cockroaches by him. he would never start a war without reason and even then he acknowledges every death and every wound, making him a beloved leader by his men.

[ikesenhell]

We Shadows

This is Chapter 10 of I See Starlight. You can find all other IkeSen works of mine here. NOTE: SPOILERS FOR TO HONOR AND PROTECT. If you have not read it, please go back and do so before proceeding. Warning: This starts with some bad bad feels/major character *non traumatic* death. You’ve been warned. It’s also kind of inevitable for a fic that spans a certain amount of time. Also: blood, minor horror elements.

By the time their son was born, the Nine knew Shingen was on his way out of the world. His health never recovered after the Invasion. He’d been reduced to leaning on his pregnant fiancee, Rose, as much as his cane. Even when he kept the smile on his lips, they all saw how much pain he was in--so after Hideyoshi and Mitsuhide and she had their turn with him, they let Shingen and Rose settle into the bedroom with them and hold the baby.

“Look at him,” Shingen crooned, patting the boy’s nose with his fingertip. “A good man, I’m sure. Look at his eyes. That’s the gaze of a fighter. He’ll do great things.”

Scarcely an hour later, he was on his deathbed--and then, gone. 

Where Yuki cried openly at the funeral, Kenshin was stoic and impassive as ice, only the tight clench of his hand around his second wife’s hand betraying him. Sasuke Sarutobi was appointed to the empty slot a week later. It was a good fit. The former bodyguard was quiet and polite enough to evade faux pas, but strong enough to win over Kenshin’s utilitarian facade, and the wheels of time moved on. 

They sold the little one room townhouse for a larger one. Rose even moved in with them, for a time, until her own son was born: Shingen Takeda. He was a redhead like his father. 

As for their own child, Gin Toyotomi-Akechi (they’d gotten into a bit of an argument about whether or not to name him ‘Nobunaga’, which was shut down when she pointed out that ‘Nobunaga Toyotomi-Akechi’ was a mouthful) grew like a weed. He was five when she became pregnant again with Saburo, their second son. And--last of all, when Gin was already fifteen and Saburo ten--Kaito Nobunaga Toyotomi-Akechi (they relented) was born, an eerie echo of both his fathers. 

“I think you had yourself a chimera child,” Ieyasu remarked, doing a check up on the two year old. He was a frequent sight at the house; his four children, Masamune’s daughter, and the junior Yukimura and Shingen (and Shingen’s half-sister) were forever emerging in the front lawn and begging to play. “That’s rare.”

“What is that, exactly?” Hideyoshi hovered anxiously. “It’s nothing, I hope?”

Masamune grinned. “Hideyoshi, you’re gonna go grey faster if you worry like that.”

Ieyasu brushed him off with a scowl. “We aren’t certain. The best theory we have so far is that it started as twins, but the eggs merged together.”

Kaito stared at Ieyasu with huge gold eyes. “Does that mean I’m a cabbage?”

“A what?” Ieyasu softened at the child. 

“A cabbage! Shingen said that cabbages are people who eat other people--”

“That’s a cannibal, a cabbage is a vegetable.” The blonde corrected gently. “And no. You’re not. Also, someone needs to talk to that child.”

They were in their late thirties and early fourties now, and Mitsuhide wondered where he’d ever gotten so lucky.

Their house filled with the chaos of three growing boys and a million different machines, all prototypes of their mother’s. The Nine kept them all busy, but god if he didn’t give everything in him to their family. He nestled alongside her on the porch, his knees stacked with hers and the gentle brush of her thumb insistent over his knuckles.

She chuckled softly, resting her head onto his shoulder. “Can you ‘see’ Hideyoshi out there?”

“No. I think he’s beyond my sight. What’s happening?”

“Mmmm.” He knew that sound. She pulled in closer to him, the hum of her arousal nearly vibrating off her skin. He loved how attractive they were to her still. He never doubted, not for a moment, that she was as in love with the two of them now as she’d ever been. “He’s wrestling the boys. Gin kind of has him in a headlock, and Saburo is trying to pull his arms down. He’s holding on to Kaito to keep him from getting hurt. You know how he is.”

He chuckled and wound his fingers between hers. “I do. Do you want me to call him inside with us?”

“Oh?” She played coy, but he heard the tease. “Whatever for, love?”

“I don’t need my eyes to read you. I think we could all be doing a bit of wrestling ourselves.”

The giggle was music to his ears. He nuzzled his nose into her neck and listened to her laugh, her hands running through his shoulder length hair. God. He was so, so, so very lucky. He wished that all would have the same fortune he had. 

“What’s going on here?” Hideyoshi emerged panting.

“Nothing much--currently. We could rectify that, if you get Gin to watch the other two and grant us three some time alone.”

“Oh--Oh!” He heard Hideyoshi’s blush. “Ahem. Uh. Yeah. Absolutely. Hang on, I’ll--I’ll be right behind you two.”

“Oh, I know you will be.”

“Mitsuhide.” 

He restrained a genuine laugh and followed her inside. 

---

Eighteen years after the incident at the Well, it finally opened to them. 

Yukimura and Masamune inspected it first before returning to the others. Even then they didn’t exactly provide a report. “Hideyoshi?”

“Yeah?” He answered uncertainly. 

“Could your wife come with us?”

“No.” All those ancient fears of whatever lay under the city reared their ugly head. “Absolutely not.”

“Hide--”

“No!”

“I promise it’s wo--”

Mitsuhide clamped a hand over Hideyoshi’s shoulder. “Why?”

“There’s... shit, I don’t know how to explain this. Yuki?”

The other man squinted at Masamune as if he had three heads. “What makes you think I’m better at this? It looks up her alley is all. It’s not dangerous or anything--we’re pretty sure.”

“Pretty sure?” Hideyoshi barely kept his tongue in check. Fortunately, Mitsuhide intervened. 

“That’s fine, so long as we go with her.”

---

She, Hideyoshi, Mitsuhide, Yukimura and Sasuke all descended beneath the well one at a time. Hideyoshi squinted down the long, damp pathway each way, crinkling his nose. “When was this made?”

“Judging by the stonework? I’d say that this was a construction contemporary with the oldest of our structures in the City.” Sasuke cleared his throat. “Approximately the same time, I’d imagine.”

“Thanks for the translation, Encyclopedia.” Yukimura scoffed, rolling his eyes at his best friend. “Come on. Follow me.”

Further and further into the dark they crept. Yukimura lit a lamp, but it cast a feeble glow. Hideyoshi wrapped his wife protectively beside him (and she cast him an amused stare but allowed it regardless), and finally they found the item in question: another lamp, with a single fraying wire beside it. 

“Here.” Yuki tapped his flame to it, and--

SsnnnnnsnAP! A ghastly sizzling sparked off the tip of the wire and crackled along. Bit by bit, the hallway before them burst into life, weak lamps struggling in the dim yellow glow. She gasped with shock. 

“What happened?” Mitsuhide asked. 

“Uh--” She hesitated. “Apparently the residents down here figured out how to formulate some kind of electric lighting system. It is bad, but it works.”

“Fascinating.”

“The lighting appears to be wired in afterward.” Sasuke shoved his glasses up his nose. “Interesting.”

“Right.” Yuki coughed. “Well, it only stays on for so long. The lights get dimmer and then start going out, and we’d really like to clear this place once and for all. I don’t suppose you can figure out a way to fix it?”

“Fix it?” She echoed, her eyes lighting up. “I’d love to. This would be incredible to study.”

“Are you sure...?” Hideyoshi cautioned. An uncertain fear lurked in his throat. “Especially given the past of it...”

“I know. I won’t be down here alone.” She smiled and pet his hands. “Don’t worry, my dear. I’ll be just fine.”

---

The month passed slowly. Bit by bit, she restructured and rewired the lamps, changing out their filaments, discovering their secrets, illuminating the lost pathways under the city with greater clarity. Sasuke, for his part, did his best to research its uses and came up blank. 

“Damn,” Kenshin muttered, rapping his fingers across the table. “Ishida would have been very useful for this.”

“I know,” Nobunaga agreed. His black hair was shot with silver now. “But it is what it is.”

Hideyoshi visited down there as often as he could. She was delighted; he saw it in the way she handled the artifacts, prodded them for information and learned what the ancients knew. He almost warmed to it too, except for--

On one of his days off, he was in the kitchen, getting ready to come visit her in the well, when his front door slammed open.

“Hideyoshi!” Ieyasu screamed. 

He was already halfway to his sword. “What happened?!”

“Just--just come on!”

They sprinted toward the alleyway. Masamune staggered out of the narrow opening first, what looked like grease coating his hands. Next came Nobunaga and Kenshin, both of their arms supporting her between them. Hideyoshi grabbed hold of her and checked every inch of her, blacking his hands with the viscous liquid sticking to his skin. 

“Are you alright--are you--what happened--?”

Mitsuhide emerged last of all, his mouth grim set, the black substance streaking down his face and through his ghost-white hair. Over his shoulder he dragged a figure so bloody and ragged he barely recognized him: Yukimura. 

---

It was a while before Yukimura stabilized and she was coherent enough to explain what happened. Mitsuhide, for his part, knew nothing. All he understood was they were under attack and then--and then Yukimura crumpled, and he couldn’t see but he knew well enough that his wife was down there, so he just threw all of his magical arts in a massive cone and hoped it did the trick. Presumably it had. The longer they scrubbed away the tar-like substance, the more obvious it was that it wasn’t just any liquid. 

“I think,” she managed shakily, “I think that was abandoned for a reason.”

Kenshin settled in by her knee. Hideyoshi almost snapped, but reason held firm and he just rubbed her arms, stilling her. “What happened?”

“So--” She inhaled deep, stabilizing breaths. “We got to the underground palace. It has--it’s really beautiful, you know? Really beautiful. Obsidian walls, fantastic carvings--Um, anyway--” Another breath. “I was up in the rigging, changing out some of the lighting, and then there were... shadows.”

“Shadows?” Kenshin echoed. “Of something?”

“No. Just... just shadows. Nothing else.”

Sasuke paused. “This... might be crazy, but do you think the lower levels were both lit and abandoned because this was known?”

“Rabid, killing shadows?” Nobunaga questioned. “This isn’t like anything we’ve heard of before.”

“I can take a look into the Royal Collection for any mentions.”

“Please do.”

“So--so what, then?” Hideyoshi managed shakily. “So we just close it back up then, right? Can it not live in the light, whatever it is?”

He knew before they said anything that it was a foolish hope. She pinched her nose between her fingers and inhaled. 

“I don’t know, honey,” she answered. “I don’t know. There was plenty of light when they attacked.”

“Then we have a potential threat on our hands.” Kenshin swept coolly up from his chair. “If light kept it at bay this long, we will have to discover a way to intensify it. Can you do that, Princess?”

“I can definitely try and figure something out.”

“No!” Hideyoshi snapped. “No! She might’ve died! Yukimura nearly died!”

“I agree,” Mitsuhide added, “This could’ve gone very poorly--”

But the flash of Kenshin and Nobunaga’s eyes stilled them both. It didn’t need to be said. The unspoken reminder of the Invasion swirled between them, and the ghastly silence settled uncomfortably. 

“I can figure something out,” she started again, more firmly this time. “Because if it gets out, my children are here. I can figure out some kind of a machine.”

[ikemenfics]

If you're taking requests for ikemen sengoku atm I was wondering if you could do an AU piece where Nobunaga is struck down in battle and Masamune takes up his mantle. And it's just like an emotional angst fest all around.

Word Count: 962

Note: Due to the fact that a lot of things would have to have been very different for this to have flown...many liberties were taken.  Thank you for the request, sorry it took so long.  It came out shorter than I intended...I”m not sure i write war stories that well..haha...Still, I hope you enjoy this.  Or get feels.  

Masamune gazed over the field, all around him were fallen soldiers.  He clenched his teeth as he blocked another blow.  His eye searched the field for his lord and leader, finding him nowhere.  Blood ran down his face and he knew he’d taken a glancing blow to his head.  He’d have to find Ieyasu for treatment after they camped for the night.  

He reared his horse, clearing a small path, giving out commands to his warriors.  All gave an affirmative and Masamune’s spirit calmed for a moment.  His soldiers, at least, were staying strong.  But where was Nobunaga?

“Masamune-sama!”  His eye found a messenger approaching.  The messenger kneeled and Masamune had to keep from barking at him.  This was no time for kneeling and bowing, “What is it?”  His voice was rough from battle cries and giving orders, but it seemed to reach the young lad all the same.  “

“Nobunaga-sama has fallen!”  Masamune’s eye blinked in shock.  He couldn’t believe his ears.  The man that was going to unify his men under a single banner.  The man that was going to ensure no domain would suffer unnecessary hardship under another.  The man that made people tremble at the very mention of his name….Had fallen?  Masamune shook his head to clear it.  He needed to act quickly before morale was lost and his soldiers with it.  He thanked the messenger, sounding the order to retreat.  It took a long while, the enemy chasing them, but eventually, all his soldiers had withdrawn, allowing Masamune to recover from the blow of losing his liege.

His army had settled for camp, Masamune wondering where the other warlords were.  Eventually, the banners of Akechi could be seen.  Masamune smiled, of course the fox would make it out alive, he was a slick one.  With the Akechi bannermen were the banners of the Oda.  They had joined with Akechi when Nobunaga fell, Masamune assumed.  While he waited for Mitsuhide to make camp alongside him, he waited for more.  

Eventually, the Toyotomi banner arrived, but it was Mitsunari leading the men, not Hideyoshi.  Masamune’s face grew grimmer as more soldiers piled in.  This was not boding well for the Oda forces.  Finally, the Tokugawa banner could be seen, their number few.  Camps were made, injured soldiers tended, and leaders were finally able to meet.

Masamune, Mitsuhide, and Mitsunari all met.  Mitsunari reported that though Ieyasu had returned to the camp, he had fallen from exhausted and couldn’t be roused.   They all stood around the warmap that Mitsuhide had provided, each face looking more haggard than when they had entered this battle.

“Has his body been recovered?”  Mitsuhide nodded, affirming that the enemy had not yet won Nobunaga’s head for their trophies.  That was, at least, a small victory.  Masamune looked to Mitsunari, “We need a new battle plan.  We cannot walk away from this defeated.  Not after all he has done for us.”  Mitsunari nodded, immediately placing marks on the map, a battle strategy already in the works in the head of the young strategist.

“We have no choice but to try for a pincer…” Mitsunari was explaining, “we can’t let the other side know just how many of our number were felled in protecting Nobunaga-sama.”  Now wasn’t the time to mourn, all faces looking serious and determined at the table.  The strategy was laid out, they would move at dawn.

They had taken rest during the night, the next morning had brought news that Ieyasu still had not awakened and none could rouse  him.  Masamune sighed, realizing that the battle was probably going to have to fall to him for leadership.  His lips twitched in a smile, “Looks like your nightmare’s come to life, eh?”  He said to the not present Ieyasu.  He mounted his horse, rallied his troops, checking the other lords that were left, and rode into battle.

They had succeeded in driving the enemy out, just barely.  Masamune had ordered the retreating army be tracked down.  This war could not afford to have this army recoup and come back stronger, not while the falling of Nobunaga was still so fresh in the minds of so many.  The commander’s head had been retrieved, Masamune taking little glory in the achievement.  

The battle finally over, the men could breathe for a moment.  Masamune walked towards the tent of the trio that had been left.  Mitsuhide looked pale and Masamune wondered how grievous an injury his comrade had suffered.  The fox showed nothing but a wan smile.  In a tent sat Mitsunari, guarding the body of their great lord.  Mitsuhide and Masamune entered together, all of them taking time to stare at the freshly cleaned body of Oda Nobunaga, the man that was to unify Japan.

“It’s said,” Mitsuhide broke the silence, “that he had no death poem written, just the words ‘so be it’.”  Masamune nodded and for a moment longer, no one spoke again.  Masamune reached, undoing the helmet that graced his lord’s head, holding it under his arm.  

“What do you plan to do?”

“There is no poem to survive him.  But his words won’t be forgotten,” said the One-Eyed Dragon as he left the tent.  He commanded a small, but sturdy effigy be built.  He and his army will stay behind until the monument was built.  Watching the construction, he found he was joined by Mitsunari and Mitsuhide, the latter looking more fit though cradling his obviously injured arm close.  Placing the helm on the top of the small monument, Masamune carved into the bottom stone,

ぜひにおよばず

Oda Nobunaga’s last words at the Honnoji incident were “zehi ni oyobazu...“ which translates to, “so be it...” or “so it goes...”  Essentially, a “que sera sera” type quote.  Thank you, again, for the request.  

[clearui]

戦刻ナイトブラッド / Sengoku Night Blood [Oda Nobunaga’s 2☆ Card Story - The Best Reward

*DO NOT POST THIS TRANSLATION ELSEWHERE!!*

2☆ 最高のご褒美

The Best Reward 1

Oda Nobunaga "The battle this time has finally been resolved. Everyone, you've done a great job. I shall give your reward to each one of you.

Oda Nobunaga "Just say whatever you wish for."

Shibata Katsuie "Hmm...... Food...... I guess not. I also have my katana sharpened recently."

Niwa Nagahide "It's not a thing, but I want a vacation......"

Akechi Mitsuhide "For me, there is a book of warring arts imported from overseas......"

Mori Ranmaru "Umm......! I only want one thing from Nobunaga-sama, if possible for you to praise my humble self!"

Mitsuhide ・ Katsuie ・ Nagahide "!?"

Oda Nobunaga "You want a praise......?"

Mori Ranmaru "Is it impossible......?"

Shibata Katsuie "......That sounds nice."

Niwa Nagahide "Yeah, I'm interested."

Akechi Mitsuhide "......Please, me too......"

Oda Nobunaga "You all...... do you really want something like that?"

Ranmaru ・ Mitsuhide ・ Katsuie ・ Nagahide "Yes!!"

Oda Nobunaga "I, I see......"

Oda Nobunaga "Do you really want something like that? It is fine to ask for expensive things even a long vacation, you understand?"

Mori Ranmaru "No, I, no matter what, really want a praise from Nobunaga-sama!"

Mori Ranmaru "You said that we have one wish for anything we want, right!?"

Oda Nobunaga "Y, yeah. If that increase your morale, it is easy......"

Oda Nobunaga "Well, I shall give words of reward to each one of you."

  The Best Reward 2

Oda Nobunaga "Now, then I shall give your words of reward. Come forward one by one.

Mori Ranmaru "Yes!!"

Oda Nobunaga "Ranmaru. Besides taking care of everyone on daily basis, you've also done well assisting them.

Oda Nobunaga "I am grateful of the kindness of yours.

Oda Nobunaga "You are still young. If you gather more experience from now on, it would not be long to see the difference of ability."

Mori Ranmaru "......! No-Nobunaga-sama......!"

Oda Nobunaga "Mitsuhide. You are always calm, and always do your tasks properly."

Oda Nobunaga "I consider you as the person I can rest easy and trust to take care of the missions."

Oda Nobunaga "From now on, pledge your loyalty to me. There are still many things I will be asking you to do."

Akechi Mitsuhide "S, such words are wasted on me......!"

Oda Nobunaga "Katsuie. You might not be as useful aside in the battles, but your presence raises the morale of our soldiers."

Oda Nobunaga "There are not many who has the talent in that field. From now on, I will still be counting on you."

Oda Nobunaga "It is not an exaggeration to say that my army is supported by you. Be careful from injuries, and keep serving us."

Shibata Katsuie "......Gugh......!"

Oda Nobunaga "Nagahide. You are my most loyal vassal. You have never betrayed my expectation--"

Oda Nobunaga "Having someone I can rest easy with like you, there are not many."

Oda Nobunaga "Also, I expect great things from your to handle anything dexterously.

Niwa Nagahide "Yes...... I am thankful for such words......"

Oda Nobunaga "......That is all. Are you fine with this?"

Mori Ranmaru "Yes......! Thank you very much, Nobunaga-sama!"

  The Best Reward 3

Oda Nobunaga "Are you all fine with this? What a weird taste you have."

Mori Ranmaru "No, there is no such thing......! To receive a praise from the divine Nobunaga-sama, I am the happiest in Shinga!"

Mori Ranmaru "Hey, everyone also thinks that, right?"

Shibata Katsuie "Uu......uu! Is it a blessing to have such a joyful thing......! Hic!!"

Oda Nobunaga "I, is it something to be cried about......?"

Akechi Mitsuhide "............."

Mori Ranmaru "Mitsuhide-san, Mitsuhide-san? ......Seems my voice can't reach him. He seems to be lost in his own thought."

Oda Nobunaga "Are you all exaggerating too much?"

Niwa Nagahide "No, there's no such thing. We're the most happiest in the world, no, the most happiest...... in the universe......"

Niwa Nagahide "......I, somehow a bit......losing my mind......"

Mori Ranmaru "Please don't passed out, Nagahide-san!!"

Oda Nobunaga (Is it okay to see this having a good effect? Well, as long it raises their morale, it is not bad at all.)

Shibata Katsuie "I......! From now on, I'll do my best to improve!!"

Akechi Mitsuhide "............Me......also......"

Niwa Nagahide "......I too, even it cost me my life......!"

Mori Ranmaru "Nobunaga-sama, we all share the same feeling! From now on, we will do our best to serve you, Nobunaga-sama."

Oda Nobunaga "......Aa. I understand your feelings very well."

Oda Nobunaga "Use your life and follow me. Until it is over, I do not allow you to die."

Oda Nobunaga "Understand!?"

Ranmaru ・ Mitsuhide ・ Katsuie ・ Nagahide "Yes!!"

  *DO NOT POST THIS TRANSLATION ELSEWHERE!!*

Translated by clearui

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Mitsuhide Akechi's Sequel

Translations may not always capture the exact nuances or tone of the original text. Expect grammatical errors and inaccuracies.

Spoilers ahead. This is a full translation. Not Proofread.

After countless fleeting kisses, the candle burned out, leaving the room in darkness.

Mitsuhide: "Mai, it's time to sleep."

Mai: "Are you leaving already?"

Mitsuhide: "I'll stay by your side until you fall asleep."

I looked up at his gentle smile, and a sense of helplessness welled up within me.

(He'll stay while I'm awake, only to leave once I fall asleep.)

Mai: "You always say goodbye so kindly."

Mai: "I'm pretty sure you'll head out into the storm alone while I'm lost in a dream."

Mitsuhide: "You look lovely even when you cry. But I'd rather have your smile as the last thing I see."

Mitsuhide: "Now, close your eyes."

(I don't want to steal any more of his time.)

Urged by his words, I lay down on the futon.

Gathering all my strength, I looked up at him one last time before closing my eyes.

Mai: "Mitsuhide, take care."

Mitsuhide: "Yeah, I'm off."

The sound of birds chirping woke me abruptly.

(It's morning already. It's so quiet.)

The storm had passed, and the room was bathed in the light of dawn.

(He really left without waking me, just like always.)

Mitsuhide's haori was lying on the floor nearby.

(Did he try to drape it over me?)

Right now, I'm not allowed to form connections with the people of this era.

The haori must have slipped off my shoulders and fallen onto the futon.

(How did he feel when he saw that?)

A crushing sensation tightened around my chest, and I bit down hard on my lip.

(I don't want to cry. I've cried more tears than I can bear already.)

Mitsuhide left Azuchi to search for a way to save me.

Time may be running out, but there's still hope.

(This was the right choice.)

(I know that with all my heart, so why does the loneliness of his absence pierce through me like a blade?)

(It's okay to feel hurt.)

(Because this pain is a testament to my time with Mitsuhide.)

Outside, the weather was unbelievably beautiful, but in my heart, the storm still raged.

(What if he doesn't make it in time? What if I don't recover?)

(If that happens, I'll never see him again.)

Mai: ".........."

I desperately stifled a sob that was about to escape.

(No matter what happens, I won't regret it.)

(I can't imagine a life where I never met him.)

(I'm glad I met him.)

Mai: "I love you, Mitsuhide."

Caught between the weight of despair and the faintest grain of hope, I whispered those words.

The shocking news came a few days later.

Ranmaru: "Lady Mai, am I walking too fast? Are you keeping up?"

Mai: "I'm fine."

I replied to Ranmaru and rang the small bell hanging from my necklace just to be sure.

Ranmaru: "Thanks for answering. I can clearly hear your voice."

Mai: "I see. That's good."

Relieved, I tightly gripped the bell on my necklace.

For the past few days, I've become completely invisible to everyone.

(I can't afford to let go of this bell, not even for a moment now.)

Mai: "What do you think this emergency meeting is about?"

Ranmaru: "I have no idea, but Lord Nobunaga gave strict orders to ensure you're present."

(Me?)

Ranmaru: "I have such a bad feeling about this. I almost don't want to take you along."

(Ranmaru is so kind.)

Mai: "Thanks. But I'll be fine."

Mai: "If you have a bad feeling, that's all the more reason for me to hear what's going on."

(Even if I'm scared, I have to keep my eyes open.)

Ranmaru: "I figured you weren't the type to say no anyway."

After giving me a wry smile, Ranmaru's expression grew serious.

Ranmaru: "Let's hurry. The other warlords are probably already there."

Mai: "Okay."

Mai: "Excuse me."

Even though I knew they couldn't see me, I gave a deep bow before sitting in the seat Ranmaru showed me.

Mitsunari: "It seems everyone is present now."

Hideyoshi: "Mai, how are you feeling? Any problem?"

Mai: "Thank you. I'm doing well, thanks to everyone's support."

As I answered, I rang the bell on my necklace louder so they could pinpoint my location.

Ieyasu: "That bell is pretty handy. Maybe I should put one on Wasabi too."

Ieyasu: "Make sure you don't lose it, okay? Searching for you every time would be a pain."

Masamune: "If you're worried, just admit it."

Ieyasu: "I'm not worried."

Keiji: "He's just saying he trusts you won't give up easily."

Ieyasu: "Don't twist my words, will you?"

Still, something felt off.

(It's like they're forcing themselves to act cheerful for my sake.)

Seizing the pause in their conversation, I turned toward Nobunaga.

Mai: "Lord Nobunaga, why did you call me to this emergency meeting?"

Nobunaga: "Let's get to the main topic."

At his words, the room fell completely silent.

Nobunaga: "Hideyoshi."

Hideyoshi: "Yes."

Hideyoshi: "Mai, you're aware that ever since the attack, rebellions have been breaking out frequently in neighboring regions, right?"

Mai: "Yes."

Hideyoshi: "There were numerous small-scale rebellions led by lords of minor domains, ronin, bandits, and lawless people."

Hideyoshi: "But now, someone's shown up who's managed to bring all these random groups together."

(What?)

Ranmaru: "Could it be Kicho and Motonari?"

Hideyoshi: "If it had been them, it would've been a hundred times better."

Masamune & Keiji: "…………"

Ieyasu & Mitsunari: "…………"

Everyone's faces twisted bitterly.

(Don't tell me…)

Nobunaga: "It's just as you've suspected."

Nobunaga: "The leader of the rebellion is Mitsuhide."

(No way!)

Mai: "Why? What reason could Mitsuhide possibly have to side with the…"

I was about to finish my sentence when a wave of goosebumps swept over me.

(There's a reason.)

The warlords' grim expressions told me they had reached the same conclusion as I had.

(He really is a liar.)

The sound of my heartbeat thumped loudly in my ears.

That night, Mitsuhide had bared his heart to me but kept the most important secret.

(His true purpose.)

Mitsuhide: "Quite the spectacle, isn't it?"

In the plains near Azuchi, the rebel army had set up camp, where the rebel generals sat face-to-face with their newly appointed leader, Mitsuhide.

The group, brimming with the tension of battle, made no effort to hide their excitement.

Rebel General 1: "Lord Mitsuhide, let my unit take the vanguard! We'll claim the enemy's head!"

Rebel General 2: "Hah! What does a bumpkin lord know about war? We'll lead the charge ourselves."

Rebel General 3: "Don't get cocky, you ronin scum. When it comes to killing, we're the experts."

Mitsuhide: "Now, now, gentlemen, let's keep it cool."

Rebel Generals: "……….."

At Mitsuhide's single command, the rebels fell silent.

Even so, they remained wary of one another, their piercing glares refusing to relent.

After a tense pause, one of them finally spoke up, his tone laced with dissatisfaction.

Rebel General 1: "Lord Mitsuhide, I get that numbers matter, but why'd you bring together such a shady bunch?"

Mitsuhide: "Each of them has caught my attention for some time."

Mitsuhide: "The men here have the courage to take on Nobunaga."

Rebel General 3: "Heh, easy for you to say. If we hadn't listened to you, we'd be having our heads pecked off by crows right now."

Rebel General 2: "We'll grab whatever hand we need to take down Nobunaga, even if it belongs to a cunning fox. That's all there is to it."

Despite their words, each general cast fearful glances toward Mitsuhide.

A disorganized rabble of soldiers, barely held together, was being forged into an army by this man with eyes cold as ice.

Mitsuhide: "Let me make one thing clear. From this point forward, any act of treachery will not be tolerated."

Mitsuhide: "If you don't wish to die a pointless death, I suggest you remain obedient."

(Mitsuhide's purpose in uniting the rebel army…)

My blood ran cold, and I was unable to speak.

Mitsunari: "The total number of soldiers in the rebel army is expected to be several times ours."

Mitsunari: "However, even if these troops clash with the well-trained Oda warriors, there's no way it'll be a fair fight."

Ieyasu: "There's no way he doesn't understand that."

Ieyasu: "It's all part of his plan."

Hideyoshi: "Recently, some of the rebels have been raiding towns and villages to gather supplies and funds for the army."

Hideyoshi: "But that suddenly stopped a little while ago. Mitsuhide must've gotten the unruly ones under control and forced them into line."

Masamune: "Those pests, no matter how many times you crush them, they just keep appearing, but Mitsuhide has managed to suppress them and gather them into a swarm."

Masamune: "He plans to throw them all directly into the Oda forces and take everyone down with him."

(Take everyone down...)

I wanted to deny it, but I couldn't.

Everyone's thoughts mirrored my own instinct exactly.

None of us believe that Mitsuhide betrayed us.

(Who would have thought that we'd have to confirm our mutual trust in this way?)

Keiji: "So, he became the leader of the enemy forces to put an end to this prolonged war, huh?"

Keiji: "It's a flashy move, but I can't bring myself to praise it."

Hideyoshi: "Does that fool not know the meaning of choosing your own methods!?"

Ranmaru: "This is just outrageous!"

Ranmaru: "He knows exactly how Lady Mai feels, how we all feel, and yet…"

Using us like pieces on a chessboard was something only Mitsuhide could pull off.

(But there had to be other ways to take down the rebel army and stop Kicho and Motonari's plans.)

Nobunaga: "Kicho and Motonari must be sighing in regret by now."

Mai: "Mitsuhide didn't do this just to make the Oda army crush the rebels."

Nobunaga: "What?"

Mai: "It's my fault."

Mai: "Mitsuhide figured out how to cure me."

------------Flashback-----------

Sasuke: "The fact that Mitsuhide's name is starting to disappear from the travel guide suggests that possibility."

Sasuke: "If Mitsuhide vanishes from history, the cause of divine punishment will be gone, and you'll surely return to normal."

---------Flashback Ends--------

(Mitsuhide must have started making contact under the guise of a rebellion as soon as the rebel armies began to form.)

(Seeing through Kicho and Motonari's schemes, and with my condition worsening, Mitsuhide must have chosen to implement this plan to resolve everything at once.)

Nobunaga: "Mai, Tell me everything."

Mitsuhide: "Kyubei, I'd like to write a letter. Could you leave the tent for a moment?"

Kyubei: "Understood."

Mitsuhide: "You don't look pleased. I told you to stay in Azuchi, didn't I?"

Kyubei: "If I'd stayed in Azuchi, who would deliver this letter to Lady Mai?"

Mitsuhide: "Good grief. A vassal who's too sharp can be a real hassle."

Kyubei: "I think it's still far better than having a too-sharp lord."

Mitsuhide: "I suppose you're right."

Kyubei: "I apologize. I spoke out of turn."

Mitsuhide: "I'm counting on you, Kyubei."

Mitsuhide: "Once everything is over, please deliver my will to Mai."

Kyubei: "........."

Kyubei bowed deeply in silence before leaving.

Eventually, Mitsuhide picked up his brush and wrote, bleeding his true feelings onto the paper.

Mai. As I write this, I am once again reminded of your strength in being able to express your true feelings so honestly.

I've learned from you that such honesty is not something easily done.

The other day, I overheard you telling Masamune that you would leave Azuchi, so I took the liberty of examining that historical book you kept hidden while you were away.

I'm sure, by now, you've realized that I've figured out your secret.

Mai, I have no hesitation. No regrets.

The only thing I regret is that you aren't by my side.

I love you and the world you live in more than anything.

If I could, I would've lived alongside you.

A few hours later.

Mitsuhide: "Well then, everyone. Do you have no regrets?"

The soldiers at the front of the army roared in response.

Mitsuhide: "We're launching a full-scale attack on the Oda forces, so make your mark on history in this battle."

Mitsuhide: "Now, to battle!"

🦊 Previous Part 💔 Tragic Ending

[koorinohebi]

Bond Levels: Caster - Akechi Mitsuhide

Before anything else, here is a small reminder that my version of Mitsuhide, while mostly canon compliant (for Caster, at least of what we know of him), is still pretty heavily headcanon based. So this interpretation is mine and you are free to not share them at all. Now, going back on topic:

We do know that as bond levels go up, the working relationship between both master and servant also improves. This is true for Mitsuhide too, although, I believe that it stops at a certain level. I feel like raising Caster's bond comes with red flags that are pretty problematic in the long run.

From what I understood before, and something that I do adapt, depending on the master, servants are sometimes reminded of specific people in their lives. For some, it could be someone important that they hold dear; others, previous masters (vaguely), etc. So in Mitsuhide's case, if you are his master, his attitude as bond levels are raised will depend on who you remind him off.

In the chance that you remind him of either Hiroko (wife), Tama (daughter), or Kicho (cousin), he'll be more protective of you as your bond level increases. The things that he was unable to do due to having lost sight of things/abandoning things because of his goal, he will now make up for. So there are times when it'll be a little awkward, because he'd feel ashamed for what he's done, but rest assured that he wont make the same mistakes twice. Or at least, he will endeavor to avoid them so that he'll always have a clear mind and actually protect what's important to him. For these kinds of people Raising bond levels up to 10+ is pretty safe.

In that horrible, horrible chance that you remind him of Hideyoshi, he will kill you right off the bat. That's it. Negotiations are off the table. He will not have you. After all, this the Mitsuhide who feels that a certain monkey has robbed him of everything. It doesn't matter what bond level you take him to, if he so much as identifies you with Hideyoshi, he will kill you.

Now, you reminding him of Nobunaga is a little well. It's a little complicated, because somewhere in his mind, a time will come where you will betray his expectations. Surely, at a decent level (5 -9), he will respect you. He will not always show it, specially not in front of others. He'd make it appear as if you're nothing truly important, but if you're in trouble, he will come to your aid without a doubt. However, come 10 and above, it gets problematic. This is most likely the time when his association of you blurs. Because you do remind him of Nobunaga, your importance outweighs a lot of people. And he is particularly invested in you, that you are practically so close to being the second coming of his dearest lord that he can POSSIBLY do without summoning the Demon King of the Sixth Heaven (but this is his goal, so he will always want it. If you give this to him, he will love you even more). So right now, he is utterly loyal to you, but also rather very delusional. And has certain expectations that he is HOPING and DESIRING that you meet, so nothing BAD befalls you. Wanting you and your attention all to himself is the very basic of having him at bond 10, and he will probably try to kill anyone... including you (killing you @ Bond 15+), if you show ANY favoritism towards anyone else. He simply cant go through that whole Hideyoshi stealing Nobunaga away from him ordeal EVER again.

So basically, that's how it is for this Caster.

[koorinohebi]

@soulsbetrayed

So Tama’s here.

He didn’t exactly know why his feet led him there, but there was surely a strange sensation of anxiousness that was washing over his senses. For the most part, Mitsuhide had been a calm man who processed things as carefully as he could, even if the result ended in something less than anyone could have expected. So imagine him feeling all this tension now, and for the simple reason that word of his daughter being around reached him. What am I even going to say to her? He wondered, standing by the corridor and waiting for the lad’s return. Part of him wanted to turn back, but he was so deeply rooted in place that all he could do was fold his arms and expect the worst.

More than him, what would she say? About everything that had happened in the past... thinking on it, being the daughter of a traitor must have been hard for her. Did he fail her as a father, he probably did. Goddamnit, if it wasn’t for that monkey, things probably wouldn’t have ended the way that it did. Maybe I should leave, return another day... But he remained nonetheless. Despite his apprehensions, that desire to see Tama won over without a doubt.

“Esteemed sister, we have a visitor.” “Who is it?”

“A man who says he’s your father Akechi Mitsuhide, my lady.”

The sage bolts up at the uchigatana’s words looking at him with a surprised expression. “Lead him here if you will.” she comments. “And Jizou you have met my father long ago but will he recognize you in your new found body…” she trails off assuming their guest was indeed her beloved father. Seeing the ghostly  tsukumogami leave she sighs quietly trying to compose herself.

@koorinohebi​

[miminorenai]

Ikemen Sengoku Kenshin Uesugi Preview

Note: I’m sorry for any wrong and off translation since I’m a learner, please advice and correct me for any mistakes *bow*

Previews:

Profiles Nobunaga Oda Masamune Date Yukimura Sanada Hideyoshi Toyotomi Ieyasu Tokugawa Shingen Takeda Kenshin Uesugi Mitsuhide Akechi Mitsunari Ishida Sasuke Sarutobi Kennyo

『 謙信との恋のあらすじ 』`Kenshin to no koi no arasuji’

Summary of Love with Kenshin

Misogyny (dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against women) God of War who met with a sorrowful past. The fate of captured by his sick love/attachment is ripening while in prison. [I understood why I was born and blessed with battle wisdom. It is for the sake of protecting you from the whole world.] When pure love overcomes repeated tragedies.....two person wrapped up in happiness so much as painful.

Kenshin [ My live and death is in war. I have no spare times for the likes of women. ]

It was the misogyny general enemy who came and help me who is entangled and involved with *rōnin.

*wandering samurai without a master to serve

Kenshin [ Have self-awareness, your life is fleeting/transient/momentary. ]

Kenshin [ A creature called ‘woman’ who does not possess any means and defenses to go against war, will easily be scattered and fall in this turbulent times. ]

A part of sorrow and grief hidden in the freezing beautiful heterochromia eyes. Before I know it, my heart is attracted.

ME TOO MC

MC [ .....Kenshin-sama gives a hunch of cold at first impression/meeting, but somewhat you are (actually) kind and possessing strong sense of duty, aren’t you? ]

Kenshin [ Someone is saying a boring nonsense/joke. ]

Little by little I know Kenshin’s real face. I don’t have in me to reveal my identity as the manager of Oda Army as it is.

In the severe battlefield, we met again by chance.

Kenshin [ If I kill all of those guys, as a result, will it become atonement/redemption of Sasuke’s life? ]

(Kenshin-sama is strong, but somewhat he’s dangerous too.)

(This person.....I cannot leave him alone.)

Getting close to the mind that lost its equilibrium, a spark snapped/flipped and came together.....it was an unknown feeling.

But, the truth that has been shoved is cruel as well.

Kenshin [ You and Mitsunari Ishida, no.....what kind of relationship you have with Oda Army? ]

Torn up unconsciousness passes by one another feeling, making us hurt each other (feeling).

I am captured in entirely luxury prison, decorated by Kenshin’s hand himself.

He’s cold okay during this time, and scary too T_T And the yandereness is starting fufufufu

MC [ Is that something inconvenience/trouble for Kenshin-sama when other people can watch over me.....? ]

Kenshin [ I don’t know. Just imagining it will give me no more than discomfort and unpleasant feelings. ]

The ripening (feeling) while in prison, and the dangerous heat/passion between two person.

Shingen [ Kenshin keeps women away from him because of some past events/happenings. ]

The sad past ruining Kenshin gradually becoming clear.

Kenshin [ Such a weak resistance. So pitiful, aren’t you, Mimi? ]

Kenshin [ I don’t have any intention to set you free and let you escape. From now on too, forever. ]

While the sick love is baring its fangs, the two person cannot help it other than seeking each other out.

Kenshin [ In order to make you mine, I think to the extent of wanting to lock you up/imprison you/confine you myself. ]

THANK GOD YOU ARE NOT DOING IT FOR LOVE

Kenshin [ I’m nearly drowning in love so much that my brakes of reason does not working in this way. ]

While in unrest happiness, I am bewildered by the excessive love, so much that I cannot breathe.

(I want to heal Kenshin-sama’s wound over time.)

Despite in hesitation/bewilderment, we swear on living and staying together closely, but it was a fleeting relationship.

Kenshin [ We cannot meet each other, touch each other, never again. ] 

Kenshin [ As for me, I’m living and dying for Mimi’s sake. ]

It is the promise of the two person that day that saves the broken heart.

Mimi [ Whenever Kenshin-sama is feeling painful, I will hug you tightly as many as possible in this way. ]

Kenshin [ Mimi.....Thank you. ]

(.....Ah. Only with this word, everything I worried about was rewarded.)

Kenshin [ As long as you are by my side, I can stay without being afraid being by myself. ]

Therefore, I’ll continue loving you. Even if that is the end of this world.....

Kenshin 

「愛している……お前がいなければ息もできないほどに `Ai shite iru…… omae ga inakereba ikimodekinai hodo ni' I love you.....as much as I cannot breathe without you staying by my side. ]

The heart that believes repaint the past, making a future as yet to be seen.

Stronger and kinder than anyone, being embraced in your arms -

[little-lady-mimi]

Prequel Prologue - Meeting you: Chance Encounter Season

前日譚・序章 ・君と出逢う季節

Zenjitsutan・Joshō・Kimi to deau kisetsu

TENKA AU EVENT

Prologue - Meeting You: Chance Encounter Season 2nd Chapter - Blossoming Love in Turbulent Times

That unknown past to be newly spun in the prequel...... Time is rolled back and returned, sending someone to a fate Even so, the fate somehow happened to come across and the two person feelings connected once more Although the two fates in which the encounter season is different, but they are being tied again Now, the curtain of the beginning tale opens--

[ 前編 . Zenpen . 1st Part ]

Connection: An interesting person?

Saburou (Oda Nobunaga)

Although you are starting to feel pleasant and enjoyable in spending time with [Saburou-san] who you meet by chance in Kyoto, he will depart from Kyoto soon. In the middle of feeling lonely, [Oda Nobunaga] summons/calls for you. Without understanding the reason, you still go out of your time to have an audience with Oda Nobunaga. However, by no means, the one who appears (in front of you) is [Saburou-san].

Genji (Kirigakure Saizo)

You meet [Genji], Yugiri’s young master/owner as a helper/assistant. That fleeting gentleness of him attracts you, but witnessing a scene of *tsujigiri changes your peaceful everyday life completely. Somehow, as a source who knows that, you have your own suspicion. As you continue to be invited as helper, you cannot help from being curious even if you are being suspiciously doubtful.

*Note: killing a passerby in order to test a new sword

Katakura Kojuro

You lost your job in Oshu, where you were working away from home (a migrant?) and while you are at lost, you have fate meeting encounter with a man named [Kojuro] from Katakura family who offers his help. Although there are not much good impression at first, that thought changes gradually as both of you spend time together. Meanwhile, all of a sudden, an arrangement put you to work as maid in Kojuro’s residence.

Inuchiyo (Maeda Toshiie)

Right after your reunion with Inuchiyo, your childhood friend, he changes into a cold person. As if there is no trace of good relationship around the time both of you are very young, you are being refused and rejected. However, Inuchiyo comes to help you as you are involved in an incident. While you are confused and cannot understand the present Inuchiyo, it has been decided that he would stay at Kyoto for a while.

Kagetora (Uesugi Kenshin)

In order to help your relatives, along the way towards Echigo, you encounter kidnapping and being taken to Hojo Castle. However, several days later, the castle falls at the hand of [Nagao Kagetora]. Again, in the middle of escaping to Echigo, you were found by a warlord with cold eyes…and the one who rescues you is that person, [Nagao Kagetora].

Harunobu (Takeda Shingen)

In order to help your small restaurant which suffers from financial difficulties, you go towards the area of Kai to work. However, the place you’ve been taken to work is to become the concubine of [Takeda Nobutora], Kai’s Lord!? While you are at lost, the chance meeting with red-haired man named [Harunobu] - helps you getting out from dilemma and so, your new life in Kai, begins. 

[ 後編 . Kohen . 2nd Part ]

Akechi Mitsuhide

With a copy of book as a start, you meet an elegance man, [Mitsuhide] by chance. Two person shorten their distance by common topics. However, suddenly, you are informed about a crime you done without reasons/causes (she’s actually innocent). Even if you are being prisoned, Mitsuhide who does not give up on you thinks of something. Due to his action, you manage to leave prison and work as a cook.

Genjirou (Sanada Yukimura)

You go to the shrine at the back of hill to perform your offering. Suddenly, a voice could be heard from inside the shrine. Looking into it, there was an injured samurai named [Genjirou]. Even if you feel he is likely to be dangerous especially he does not open his heart to you, you still take care of him. [Genjirou] who gradually recovering, starts to open his heart for you and decides to place himself in the city of Kyoto.

Tojirou (Date Masamune)

Since your relative is collapsed, you come to Oshu to help at the small restaurant. Then, by chance, you meet a reserve young man, [Tojirou] there. Each time both of you are meeting, he shows you various facial expression. One day, that truth of him as the next head of Date Clan, [Date Masamune] is known to you.

Tokichirou (Toyotomi Hideyoshi)

You work for a daimyo, Matsushita at his residence. One day, you meet again with [Tokichirou], the guy who chases thief at town some while ago. However, you are bewildered by his attitude that is very different unlike before. One day, right after Tokichirou starting to show various facial expression somehow, an occasion leads you to live along with Tokichirou and the other 2 guys under an order.

Matsudaira Motoyasu (Tokugawa Ieyasu)

Sunpu. You who was supposed to work for Imagawa Yoshimoto encounters Imagawa Clan’s hostage, [Matsudaira Motoyasu]. Though he’s enduring harsh treatment, Motoyasu constantly keeps smiling. While you are looking after him, gradually, you come to think that you want to touch the innermost depths of his heart.

Sakichi (Ishida Mitsunari)

While working at Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s residence, by chance, you encounter [Sakichi], who spends his every day being indifferent and does not allowed anyone to come close to him other than Hideyoshi. He is someone who cannot get through by common sense and his honest and straight trait always come to strike. While you are touching that undecorated honesty, your heart starts to stir up.

ALL 12 DONE!

I already make translation for the first 6 lords of 2nd chapter, so we just need to wait for second batch to come out tomorrow (there’s already new Saizo cg slot in tenka), then I’ll post them in one shot~

[koorinohebi]

"Hey, kumquat! I'm gonna toast a few cities on my path to unite the world. Wanna help me browbeat all the major governments into kowtowing at my feet?" Asks the ambitious Nobunaga.

“Is that really a question that you need to be asking, Lady Nobunaga?” Well he was feeling quite smug right now, wasn’t he? The fact that his lord asked HIM to assist her in her endeavors and not that Monkey was a big swell of pride in that chest of his. He would keep his composure, of course.

“Just say the word and I’ll gladly set ablaze the magistracy that incurs your ire .” He began. “Make them grovel onto their knees, and pledge loyalty to your cause.”

[koorinohebi]

Mitsuhide and Kiomi ~ Make no Mistake ~

Why couldn’t it be me?

The light in his eyes were starting to fade. An infernal cold was beginning to take a grasp at his senses. His body felt so numb, and his breathing could hardly catch up to his lungs. Now that everything was beginning to fall apart, he realized that he couldn’t even move his lips to curse his fate.

How pitiful that the only thing that he could do was lament the tragedies of his life in silence; a place inside his head where the light of salvation no longer existed.

Why did this have to happen to me? Why me, of all people? Haven’t I been loyal enough? Wasn’t I the one who supported you the most? When you saw my potential and asked me to join you-- serve under you, I was thrilled. For you to have shared your dreams of unifying the land with someone like me, made me feel like my existence had some kind of worth. That there was more to me, that I was enough to aid in such grand ambitions. So why? Why did you snatch that honor away from me? Why wasn’t I suddenly enough for you?

A simpleton like Gonroku could never hope to stand beside you, he was weak and easily swayed to instigate a revolt. Someone like him was no better than a puppet attached to a string, moving in accordance to every tug and pull of the rope that was attached to his manipulator’s hand.

In fact it was that sniveling brother of yours, Nobukatsu, who orchestrated that rebellion, wasnt it? That brat who prattles on about understanding you the most, never truly did, didn’t he? In the end, he was the same as those who wanted to covet your title-- take your head, thinking that they could be better. So he too was hardly an obstacle.

But why. Why?

Not like he COULD accept anyone else.

Mitsuhide couldn’t help but gnaw inwardly at his lower lip, bruising the flesh, taking in the pain. All so that he wouldnt give into the call of the Shinigami that awaited at Death’s door. When he recalled the smile that wasn’t directed at him, but to another-- to an insignificant hick of a monkey, he wanted to scream out and go insane.

He however had no more strength for that.

Blood-shut eyes would stare up at the sky.

Why, why did that Ape have to appear? Why did Oda Nobunga acknowledge a worthless man like him? Mitsuhide’s dreams crumbled when his Lady no longer looked at him the same way. How she no longer depended on him like she used to. Now she was giving that Monkey, Hashiba, the time of day that should have been his. Power that should solely belonged to him-- Nobunaga’s attention was his and his alone. The fallen general did not want to share what was his by nature.

Why? Why did it have to be him? Why couldn’t it be me? My accomplishments far outweighed his! So what if he was a little talented despite being some no name farmer? That country bumpkin didn’t amount to anything more than just that. A little oddity that happened to catch the eye of perfection itself! He wins a battle or two and he thinks he can steal what's mine? Think that I would wait on him and sit silently to be ordered around? Me, the one who understood Nobunaga the most? Preposterous!

And yet, that was what happened. He corrupted her Ladyship, made her foolish. So much that his vision of her had been blurred into obscurity. Who was the woman that stood at the top of this game of unification? That... that THING wasn’t who he dedicated his life to.

Ah.

If that was the case, then it could only mean that the Oda Kazusa-no-suke Nobunaga the he knew had been lost. That’s right. That was it. It was up to him to retrieve her, bring her back. If Mitsuhide could have just one wish fulfilled, then it was this--

-- the Revival of Oda Nobunaga, the True Demon King of the Sixth Heaven.

Still.

When he reflects upon these last few days, those 13 days where he had hoped to fulfill his War Lord’s ideals-- their shared ideals, no one would even come under his banner. He had a few loyal retainers of his own, but those of whom he approached offering his friendship.-- the Court, the Hosokawa, they abandoned him. Even that good for nothing Tsutsui saw it a better option to support that primitive chimp.

They all fled away from him, leaving him all alone in his final moments.

Of course, they branded him a traitor. But they were wrong! No one was more loyal to Nobunaga than Akechi Mitsuhide. They didn’t see what he saw, didn’t understand what he KNEW. Their feeble-mindedness prevented them from seeing that the Nobunaga that he disposed of was an impostor. A hollow shell of what their true ruler was. If they could just see everything from his perspective, then they would know that he was in the right.

He coughed, blood pooling at the mouth and spilling from the thin, parched, and bruised lips. How long has he been holding off his demise? No, he didnt want to go yet. He wanted to do something, anything to stay awake, keep himself breathing so that he can pursue his new goal. What did he have to do? What would it take to fulfill his wish? Part of him felt his struggle laughable. He didn’t even know where he had dragged himself off to before he felt his limbs stop moving, giving way to the hurt, to the pain. Mitsuhide, upon keeping his blurred gaze at the sky, raised his hand up in futility. Somehow, he felt so tired. Why was he suffering like this again? Ah, I want to return to you... my Lord--

And for but a brief moment, he felt it. Thin frail hands clasping onto his; smaller digits enveloping those of his own which shook weakly. “You look so worn out, Mitsuhide. I think it’s time for you to get some rest.” Said the voice, a woman’s voice. My Lady? No-- is it... someone else? Who? The warmth that he felt in his hands seemed to resuscitate some life into him. No, whoever this was wasn’t the person he sought after the most. It was different, but she didn’t seem too foreign to his senses either.

Mitsuhide watched the purple haired girl sit by his side, her hand releasing his only after setting it to his side to relieve him of unnecessary stress-- of further fatigue.

“Was I--” The man forced out words, even if it felt like hell to talk. Was I not worth anything? Was I not good enough? Not good enough for anyone? Not even for low-lives that had nothing upon their backs? So many questions plagued his failing mind, but only one ever made it out of his lips. “--wrong?”

Of course he was. He was, wasn’t he? That’s why everyone abandoned him, that’s why Nobunaga looked away and chose someone else.

“You know, Mitsuhide, I--” His eyes widened at her words. No. Why was this happening now. His ears were failing him, what was she saying? Everything was a mix of jumbled sounds in his head. What is she saying?! He wanted to hear it. Desperately, trying to claw his way back to the realm of his senses.

What is it, what are you trying to say? Tell me!

===

“Mitsuhide, Mit-su-hi-de!”

His eyes opened wide, alerted to the point that he almost drew his katana at the one who riled him in his sleep. A cold bead of sweat descended his forehead, before his face returned to its usual countenance. “It’s just you.”

“Of course it’s JUST me. Who else would it be?” Kiomi lofted a brow, letting a hand rest upon her hip as she stared at her, as always, rude servant. “You know, Mitsuhide--” He froze for a moment, head snapping at the magus’ direction. Those words-- the way they were said. The way his name rolled off of her tongue; it was the same. The woman in his dream, was it this same uselessly brazen master of his? “--for someone who always says that servants don’t need to sleep, you sure have some nerve sleeping when I’m calling for yo--oi, what the hell’s with that stare? Wipe that disgustingly creepy look off of your face.”

It was impossible. This girl was like the rest. Not the same as his Nobunaga. Not the same as the stranger in his dream. Of course, that was it. He wasn’t looking for hope. That was something that he didn’t need. All he need was for this woman to get him the grail so that he could make his wish come into fruition.

“You probably think that I’m wrong too, that I am a traitor.” It came out of nowhere, this sentiment. Again, she was just like everyone else. He scoffed, snarling at the other with a menacing grin, all the while fixing his coat over him. “You’re probably even right to assume that I’ll betray you for the sake of resurrecting the Demon King of Sixth Heaven.”

“I’d be really annoyed if you suddenly betrayed me after I get you your grail, but it’s not like you’re wrong for having lived the way you lived. I don’t really think you’re a traitor, after all, even now you know where your loyalties lie.”

‘You know, Mitsuhide. I don’t think you were wrong for having lived the way you lived, because even now, you know where your loyalties lie.’

Caster stood there, motionless. Those were the words, weren’t they? The words that he struggled so much to hear in his dream, spoken outright by this silly little girl who dared call herself his master.

“Well, I don’t really know what your mind games are today, but we have to Rayshift in 30 minutes and I just wanted to see if you actually FELT like doing some grunt work for this grail that you so desperately want, for a change. But if you’d rather lock yourself here, brooding and scheming away, be my guest. I’ll just ask someone else to accompany me--” And she was heading out of her room too while saying this, waving her hand goodbye dismissively towards the fickle man before she was stopped at the wrist. Yanked back even before the automatic doors could open.

“You are...my ally?” Caster asked suddenly, as if processing some new found form of disbelief.

“What kind of stupid question is that, Caster?” She furrowed her brows. Wrenching her wrist away from the surprisingly herculean grip.

“Just answer the question.” He pressed on-- “Well?” --impatiently. “Are you?”

Kiomi clicked her tongue. Why’d she have to be discussing these things when there were more important matters to attend to? Still, this was the few times that her servant seemed so... well-- so serious, and earnest, she couldn’t just-- Ugh. she clicked her tongue again and sighed.

“I chose you, Mitsuhide.” She muttered under her breath. To which Caster lofted his brow in turn as if telling her to elaborate.

“You’re supposed to be really smart, why do I have to spell it out for you?!” She complained, embarrassed about this whole ordeal. What was up with him today? He was so invasive and unnecessarily more annoying than usual. Why was he only interested in topics that came out of his own mouth? And this topic was a rare not-about-the-great-Oda-Nobunaga kind too. “It’s not like I summoned you by accident or out of sheer luck.”

"Make no mistake. I chose you specifically because I knew you would be the best partner.”

The best? The words rang in his head. The best. This girl believed him to be the best ally? Among all the heroic spirits that the Throne could offer? Despite his marred reputation? She chose him to be his ally? Laughable. Laughable! It was such a hilarious thought that manifested itself into an actual laugh, one that rang inside the mage’s room.

See, this was why she didn’t want to say anything. The truth never did her any good. She always just got ridiculed for it. This annoying guffaw of his caused her to kick him in the shin, effectively getting him to stop. “Are you done laughing at me?”

“As a matter of fact, I am. Ah, master. You are such a fool. But I suppose even fools need a dependable ally every once in a while.” So with that, he turned his back from her, stalking for the door. Kiomi blinked. It was the first time that he had taken initiative. Often times, Mitsuhide would let her leave first, not wanting to give anyone, even her, the opportunity to catch him off guard.

“You’re actually going to help me then?” She asked.

“I know that you're worthless. However, I didn't take you to be the type to be deaf either.” He replied.

"Why you--" This jerk... Kiomi dropped it, and just shook her head in defeat as the automatic doors finally opened. She'll let it pass for today, after all, the servant was finally taking the lead. “Mitsuhide, your back is wide open.”

Stopping by the open entrance, Caster simply glanced towards the place where his master stood, a rather complicated yet solemn look hung upon his visage. “It’s fine, since you’re the one standing behind me--” He paused, looking away.

“-- MY Master.”

[koorinohebi]

By: Kay C(ケイ・チャン)

Shared with permission. Please don't remove the credits.

Kiomi just wondering what she did to deserve such an adorably endearing idiot at her Chaldea. Will have to invite Sakamoto-san and Oryou-san forever.

"Master, you're wasting tea..."

"GWAAH! HOT! HOT! A TOWEL. A TOWEL!"

"Today, my master is extra stupid. It's a good day." Does not even move to get a towel.