#Shogun Sweeps

[theomenmedia]

Team Shogun Gives A Moving Speech After Emmy Sweep

"Shogun" sweeps the Emmys with 19 wins! A night of history, culture, and poetry in motion.

Link to the full story: https://www.theomenmedia.com/post/shogun-triumphs-with-historic-emmy-sweep-acceptance-speech-highlights-cultural-milestone

[anetherealpoetess]

the way i panicked when iwtv didn't receive a single emmy nomination until i realised they were not eligible this year

[masqueradeoftheguilty]

diluc hyper-retriburgeon makes stupidly fast work of the hydro tulpa jfc

[amosnaomi]

shogun is going to sweep the emmys btw

[tonymarias]

The Emmys are a joke but Kali Reis, Walton Goggins, Hiroyuki Sanada, Anna Sawai, and Lily Gladstone deserve the world

[dancingmusique]

So happy for the cast and crew for their phenomenal work💫

Hiroyuki Sanada, Takehiro Hira, Anna Sawai and Tadanobu Asano photographed by Matthew Brookes for Vanity Fair’s Pre-Emmy Party

[dawndelion-winery]

For Worse or For Better

Arranged Marriages

Ft. Diluc, Itto, Childe, Kaeya, Zhongli

Diluc:

Your parents were wonderfully close to Crepus, so you knew Diluc from young

He'd always been well-mannered and lovely

That much didn't change even after his trauma

It did hurt when he started shutting you out though

And yes, you did try to call off the engagement that had been set up before Crepus died because you felt he wanted to distance himself from you

You'd only kept it to honour the man's wishes and because Diluc seemed adamant about you

Like, he actually said he would not have anyone else

Not that he pressured you into it though

More of letting you know you didn't have to end it because he most definitely did want you

"Make no mistake, you will be the only person I recite my vows to at the altar. If you long for another, then so be it, but if you want me, then it shall be so."

Itto:

How did this happen?

No, like, fr, how??? Itto doesn't seem like the type to have any thoughts for social climbing and you...well what do you gain from marrying Itto?

Apparently your mother had heard Kujou Sara speak highly of Kuki Shinobu, and since Shinobu worked for Itto, surely he must be a man of even greater talent and character

Now you were having dinner with an extremely boisterous man who ate for three

By the shogun you hoped the bill wouldn't amount to too much

When he suggested a dine and dash? Boy, you were about to just walk right into a cell yourself

It was truly some grace of God that Shinobu came by with Sara and covered your tab (only for you, they made sure to tell Itto off for putting you in such a situation)

"Real sorry about that, honey," the oni said sheepishly. You wanted to hmgive him a piece of your mind, really, when you were certain you'd never hear the end of it at home of you'd gotten a criminal record, but when he slipped his hand in yours, a sheepish grin as he looked at you hopefully, as though pleasing for forgiveness, you found it rather difficult to stay mad.

Childe:

People would kill to be you

The dashing young harbinger?? Who's great with kids??? And very much a family man????

There was only one issue: he hadn't met you yet

His family had written to him about you, eagerly telling him how they were sure they'd found him the perfect match

And he wasn't about to shoot them down when they were so hopeful he'd finally have someone when he was travelling and doing the Fatui's dirty work all the time

So when they'd warmly welcomed you into their home for a simple dinner, you hadn't expected to walk in and see a feast prepared with an empty seat beside yours

You waited for a bit with everyone, wondering who the extra seat was for

And when Childe walked in with a sack full of gifts for all his family members, you sat there awkwardly

Was it an endearing sight? Definitely. But you felt out of place as he pulled out one item after another for everyone

You were certain you wouldn't receive anything, hence the surprise when he sat beside you and handed you a small box

"A little engagement gift for you," he winked. Your mouth hung open, thoughts racing through your mind full of things you wanted to say but weren't sure how - especially not in front of such a crowd, all of whom aww'ed at his gesture. It was after dinner when you'd gotten him alone in the kitchen washing the dishes that you addressed it.

"Engaged? We've only just met Tartaglia."

He tsked at you, playfully leaning in as though he was going to kiss your cheek. When you froze, he grinned by your ear.

"My whole family likes you well enough, and from everything they've told me, I like you well enough too. But if you insist, ice a week before I have to head off. I'm sure I could sweep you off your feet by then, unless you'd like to come with."

Kaeya:

Oh you thought you got lucky when your childhood betrothed grew up to be the charming cavalry captain

Until you realised that charm would never be extended to you because he was just a goofball with you

It was cute though, him picking flower petals with you to determine how your relationship will go

He had a habit of leaving the plucked flower and its final petal with the result on your pillow

(it was always "forever in love" because if it wasn't, he'd just pluck another flower)

You sighed with a laugh at the familiar sight of the plucked flower when you felt arms around your waist as Kaeya embraced you from behind.

You wondered bitterly if there was something wrong between the two of you; you never had that flutter of butterflies in your gut when he was around. Not once did he make your heart leap out of your chest, or cause your lungs to constrict in a way you were sure would suffocate you. Was it a mistake? Yet it didn't feel wrong. There was a frost to his touch that cooled you, calmed you, and almost (most ironically) warmed you.

Zhongli:

Under no circumstances would you ever meet someone who quite commanded the respect and attention of those around him like Rex Lapis did

So when the hooded figure stood before the citizens who so worshiped him, some overly devoted follower enthusiastically proposed a raffle to offer the god a spouse to serve and dote upon him on behalf of the nation

Before he'd even had the chance to decline the offer, the crowd erupted in cheers of agreement, and the flustered god was ushered into a seat as eligible spouses presented themselves before him

You truly had not anticipated the glint that flashed across his eyes as he ever so slightly raised his hood to make eye contact with you

It had been less than a second, and yet all too long as your lungs failed you, the startling amber glow leaving you winded

"I quite like you," he drawled in a low, rumbling hum as he rose from his seat. You looked around, ascertaining that no one else had seen his face, but he didn't seem to like that, as he tilted your chin to have you look at him. Once again, you were faced with the startling gleam of his eyes, so reptilian and sharp. You screwed your eyes shut as he leaned in, the sunlight reflected off his canines. His lips were warm, surprisingly, as they pressed against your forehead.

Taglist: @myluvkeiji @aqui-soba @favonius-captain @tiredsleep @raincxtter @gensimping-for-all @irethepotato @almond-adeptus @mx-kamisato @chaosinanutshell @heizours @haliyamori @callmemeelah @sadlonelybagel @plinkuro @thevictoriousmoon @mastering-procrastinating @cxlrose @astrequa @eowinthetraveler @ajaxstar @boundedbyfate @the-lost-anime-dad @moonbyunniee @greyrain23 @heavenlyfloof

[sanflawoah]

In honor of Shogun sweeping the Emmy🤘👍

[yuesya]

Now that I thought about it, I wonder how Sara Kujou is doing in the Genshin AU? I don't think she would be too keen in serving the one who "overthrew" the Archon she was loyal to. Unless Ayase or Yae explained the situation to her?

"Halt! I shall not allow any rebels to trespass upon-"

Those are all the words that Kujou Sara manages to speak before a blade descends upon her.

So be it, then. She raises her naginata to defend, preparing herself to strike out with a sweeping arc after parrying the blow-

The sword cleaves through the metal pole of her weapon like it's paper. Sara's eyes widen, and it's only the raw intuition honed through long years as a general on the battlefield that allows her to dodge, saving her life. But she does not manage to escape unscathed. The enemy's blade does not hesitate, scoring a deep gash down Sara's front.

An involuntary gasp escapes her throat, and Sara stumbles -but she does not allow herself to fall. She cannot falter, not now. Not when she stands as the last line of defense between the Shogun and the rebels who dare to turn their blades upon their god.

Sara's hands tighten on the broken halves of her weapon. Slices, as best as she can, but-

But the wicked blade of her enemy cuts through metal without pause, and Sara is forced to abandon her grip on her weapon, lest she lose her entire hand.

It's her loss. Sara's strength is not enough to trump this dire situation.

Blue eyes look upon her, apathetic and without feeling, and there's nothing that Sara can do when that blade comes for her neck-

"Wait, don't kill her! Kujou Sara is important, we'll need her in the future!"

-the blade stops. Blood trickles down from the fine line opened on Sara's neck, but her enemy doesn't cut.

And inexplicably, something inside Sara's chest burns in rage. "Do it, traitor. I won't betray the Shogun. Never."

Kamisato Ayase's expression does not change as she lifts her blade from Sara's neck.

"She's yours, Sangonomiya," is all the traitorous woman says, proceeding to abandon Sara in a pool of her own blood on the cold stone ground as she steps over her and makes her way towards the Shogun's chambers.

... No. No!

Sara attempts to struggle to her feet-

"I wouldn't do that if I were you," the calm voice of the rebel army's general sounds next to her ear. "Please hold still for a moment. Right now we need to-"

"Leave me," Sara hisses. "The Shogun, I must-"

"You can't do anything for the Raiden Shogun in your current state," Sangonomiya Kokomi points out reasonably. "This encounter... it's not something that the likes of you or I can interfere with. What happens next is all up to Ayase and the Shogun now."

"The Shogun will execute her."

"Well, I wouldn't be so certain," the other woman responds breezily. "Shall we make a bet? Let's see... if Ayase succeeds, then you-"

Sara cuts her off immediately, "I do not make bets with generals of rebel forces."

"What a pity," Sangonomiya remarks, not sounding particularly upset at all. "I know that you see us as enemies, but... we're not so different, really. In the end, we all want what's best for Inazuma's future."

Sara gives the priestess an incredulous look, "Raising a rebel army and opposing your Archon is your idea of what's best for Inazuma's future?"

"In this case? Yes."

Above them, the sky suddenly darkens. Thunder rumbles like a set of war drums, followed by long forks of crackling lightning. There's an invisible tremor that ripples through the air, one that inexplicably raises goosebumps on Sara's skin.

"So it's started," Sangonomiya murmurs quietly, gazing in the direction of the Shogun's chambers. Where Kamisato is no doubt confronting their Archon in this very moment.

...

The sounds of combat are fierce. Metal against metal, thunderclap against thunderclap. The lightning's glow illuminates the heavens.

In the end, Sara watches helplessly as her god falls, and a new god rises to take her place.

[maaarshieee]

ah yes, I see, you asked for scaramouche requests.

y/n is a devoted follower of the Electro Archon, and SCARAMOUCHE well... the puppet of the Electro Archon. The puppet became friends with y/n and became vulnerable when he's with them. He felt like he didn't need to act tough when he's in front of them.

BUT WHEN SCARA WAS DISCARDED, Y/N WITNESSED IT AND WAS SHOCKED. They didn't believe that the Archon would do something like that. still, they took scara

y/n decided to confront her god and asked why she did that. When they found out the reason why... They were torn whether to stay with scara or still be a follower of the archon...

WELL SOMETHING LIKE THAT AJWKWNDBWJNS

-weekly anon except it's not a week since i last sent one...

⎯⎯ ୨ 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐟𝐬 ୧ ⎯⎯

➢ Kᴜɴɪᴋᴜᴢᴜsʜɪ x Gɴ!Rᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

➢ 1.6k ᴡᴏʀᴅs ┊ Hᴜʀᴛ/ᴄᴏᴍғᴏʀᴛ-ɪsʜ

➢ Mᴀsᴛᴇʀʟɪsᴛ

a/n - I LITERALLY BURST OUT LAUGHING WHEN I SAW IT WAS YOU, WEEKLY ANON. HI THERE! I'm sorry but you haven't reached a week yet. tut tut. and yet ive only rewarded you with writing this... sigh. NOT MY FAULT YOU GIVE GOOD ONES. ANYWAYS, as punishment, just get a drabble 😤😤/lh, this reminds of my scara series i ought to finish writing, hope you don't mind me changing the prompt a little 🤧🤧 but this is kinda half assed idk titled "beliefs"! have a good day/night

↬ cw: slight obsession (reader), references to religious trauma

A devotee to Eternity herself, you've been following her for as long as you could remember. So much so, you've been graced by her excellency's presence multiple times before and earned yourself a high position in the Grand Narukami Shrine, vowing to yourself to serve the Shogun till your last breath.

It wasn't like you wanted to. Your family was exceptionally known for being long-term followers of the Raiden Shogun. You didn't have a choice. So you delusion yourself that yes, this is what you wanted. Nothing something you were coerced to do.

Well, that is until you met her creation.

When you first saw him, you were knocked off your feet. Literally. By the last steps of Narukami Shrine, you were merely sweeping clear of sakura petals that began to fall from its branches, you were minding your business when you heard footsteps nearing the shrine. Putting up a half smile, you raised your head to greet whoever came to visit the shrine but when your eyes landed on the new figure approaching you, you froze.

What caught your immediate attention were his eyes. Vibrant and full of life, curiosity, and awe to the world laid before him. A gorgeous deep shade of purple with faintly visible crackles of electricity dancing in his round eyes. You were so captivated by his eyes that you failed to notice Lady Yae walking beside him, as well as the fact that you were not at the bottom of the stairs just yet, merely close to it.

So you fell when you took a subconscious step forward and hit the stone path headfirst. Hard.

"Oh my!" You heard Lady Yae gasp, nearing your fallen body. It was only then you realized the head shrine maiden was present and you completely ignored her existence until you heard her speak. "Are you alright?" She asks, a glint of amusement in her eyes as she glanced at the nervous puppet hiding behind her, but more concerned at your well-being.

Quickly getting back up on your feet, you wobbled slightly as you stood, dizzy, but you managed to bow respectfully at her. She kindly asked for you to raise your head and examined the throbbing bump on your forehead. "You should be more careful there, especially when there's someone new visiting." Yae Miko teased the already flustered servant before her, greeting the puppet with a red face.

Up close, their breath was swept away once more. His features resembled her excellency, but it was more... ethereal, you dare say. You had to hold yourself back from opening your mouth in awe the longer you observed him, from head to toe.

"Isn't it quite rude to stare?" Lady Yae spoke up once more, startling you from your awestruck stupor, almost dropping the broom you held in your hands. Finally noticing the nervous and uncomfortable expression he wore on his fair face, brows creased and lips tucked into a frown, you gasped.

Bowing to the puppet, you apologized profusely.

That first silly impression of you was enough to intrigue him. While he was skittish around you for the first few times, he grew fond of you in the long run. You were friendly, showing him around the shrine when Yae first introduced the place to him. You spoke with high respect towards the Raiden Shogun, often teaching him things he never knew about her, and even taught him more about human nature.

From sweeping the floors of the shrines with you, cooking food even though he couldn't taste, nor consume mortal delicacies, and many more. The more time he spent with you, the more he felt himself grow comfortable with his sense of self, comfortable being with you. The world didn't seem so terrifying and confusing with you by his side.

He felt as if he was just a mere human. Free from what he's supposed to be, and able to breathe in the fresh air he could only feel between his fingertips. When you genuinely smile at him, laugh so freely around him, grab his hand and run through the sakura trees surrounding the Narukami Shrine, and call him adorable nicknames...

You fill his hollow chest with such warmth and emotions he never felt before, he could've sworn he felt a faint strum of a rhythmic beating in his chest, but only with you. For you.

The doll you've befriended would visit quite often. It would always brighten your days from then on once he took a step onto the stairs of the shrine. Once you'd felt Lady Yae's presence, there was also your dearest friend beside her.

So you dropped the wet cloth you used to clean the wooden floors of the shrine and quickly got up to your feet, rushing towards the entrance with a big grin on your face.

But you only saw Lady Yae, whom you bowed to respectfully. Although something bothered you with the way she looked at you. Her eyes were gentler than usual, a small, solemn smile on her lips as she approached you. An unsettling feeling settled at the bottom of your abdomen.

Worried, you asked about his whereabouts.

So now you're in this predicament. Silently packing your things into a small pouch, lips pressed into a thin line as you began to question yourself.

You swore loyalty to the Shogun until your untimely death. To serve her with your whole heart, to worship the concept of her existence, to glorify her name. But the time you spent with him fills you with more happiness and clarity than you've ever had when you simply prayed inside the shrine.

You wanted to be with him more than you wanted to serve Eternity herself. It left a bitter taste in your mouth. Since youth, she was your sole purpose of existence. Your goals were meant for her, your life was meant for her.

How a puppet of her's managed to break your will so easily puzzles you, but you couldn't be more sure of yourself. You gripped the pouch you held and dusted off your shrine clothing, strengthening your resolve.

To throw one's beliefs away will never be simple. Teachings engraved in one's mind will never fade, and faith will never be destroyed so easily. But a simple step away from your god, straying away from divinity will be enough to break away from its shackling chains.

The Electro Archon be damned! The moment she threw him away, your Eternity was the Shogun no more, but the puppet Lady Yae described as disaster soon to unfold.

While the uncertainty made you feel scared, you stepped outside of the shrine.

Fine then, a disaster you say? You huffed, letting the pinkish petals fall into your open palm, admiring the serenity night brings. You will stay with disaster, for he made your heart, once more, beat with a sense of freedom. No longer weighed down by the beliefs your lineage thrust upon your birth.

You awaited his wake in Shakkei Pavilion, keeping the dust away from his flawless, porcelain skin, wiping away the stray tears that fell from his closed eyes. Around his body were multiple trinkets you'd bought for him. Things he hadn't seen before, books he hadn't read, and rather expensive artifacts from different countries.

It felt like you were giving him offerings, in hopes he'd wake up soon.

During his slumber, slowly but surely, you've found yourself a new belief. A new sense of purpose. A purpose that didn't make you feel like the eyes of your parents stabbing behind your back, judging your every move. Where ever he would go, once he awakens, you will follow him.

Who knows? Maybe he'll make himself a god. That's certainly a religion you'd prefer to pray to.

In the meantime... Watching him peacefully sleep on your lap, chest slowly rising and falling even if he needn't breathe. The light seeping through the cracks of the walls paints his fair skin, highlighting his hair beautifully; he truly looked like a god. It was enough to quell the restlessness of your mind.

If you want to be tagged in future works, fill out this form to be added to my taglist! Remember that usernames are only lowercase and have no spaces!

Taglist: @anniejourn, @dilucssiliconedildo, @achlysyo, @sunoo-bby, @iyagato, @randomidk-123, @kujobug

- ̥۪͙۪˚┊❛❛ If you like this a lot, consider reblogging! I'll appreciate it very very much! Don't repost and/or translate my work anywhere. ❜❜ ┊˚ ̥۪͙۪◌

[lady-raziel]

While I know Shogun is gonna sweep it also is a big deal to me that my beloved post-apocalyptic hyper fixation is getting some rep in the Emmy nominations. Like yeah Walton Goggins ghoul can ACT!!!

[wulfhalls]

happy shogun sweep emmy evening to all those who celebrate

[anchy2006]

I’m at work being a productive member of society which means I can only scream about Shogun’s sweep in my mind, while saying sentences like “so how is the forecast looking like for next quarter”

[straightouttheslendermansionn]

𝑳𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝑮𝒖𝒖𝒋𝒊'𝒔 𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝑨 𝑺𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏!? 

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓: Yae Miko

𝑺𝒚𝒏𝒐𝒑𝒔𝒊𝒔: Yae is a diligent kitsune with a broad imagination. She needs ideas to keep the publishing house thriving, and would go to any lengths to get what she needs. However, what if pretending to be in a relationship with a shrine maiden isn't just for the sake of inspiration?

𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑾𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈: Just really fluffy and just a little gay. Love you guys!

As sly as a fox is she, with her wits always about her but her playful nature running amok. The look in her eyes always either gleaming with a hint of mischief or glaring with the utmost solemnity. Yae is revered on all of Inazuma’s islands and even across the sea, where gods and their retainers alike recall her name and commend her for her power.

That being said, having the Lady Guuji casually walk up to you and strike up a conversation would have been unheard of. Especially if you’re a mere shrine maiden. She runs the show, always stern and diligent, expecting the same of those operating the Grand Narukami Shrine. This line of work is very sacred after all.

“Good morning, Y/N.” Yae greeted you as she walked over to where you were sweeping the deck of one of the small buildings. Everything in your brain was put on pause as you processed her greeting.

“Good morning, Lady Guuji!” You replied timidly, almost completely caught off guard by her specifically greeting you. The closer she got to where you were, the more the sinking anxiety feeling grew within your chest. She never usually has time for conversing with the maidens, so you start to worry that you either did something wrong or have boatloads of work– comparable to the cargo held in the ships that come in from Liyue Harbor.

You tried to focus on the task at hand– sweeping and cleaning up the shrine’s decks. Breathing along with the broom strokes, trying to calm down and catch your breath. However, the only sweeping actually happening was Miss Yae sweeping you off your feet. As per usual, it isn’t difficult to find yourself enamored by and in fear of the kitsune, but how could you not? With those purple eyes boring into your soul, you could drop dead any second.

“Why so scared? You did nothing wrong. You can untense. As if you even need my permission to do so.” She attempted to assure you with a slightly teasing tone. You let out a nervous giggle and tried your best to steady your breath and slow your racing thoughts. You propped the broom up onto one of the railings and turned to face her, bowing and coming back up with a sheepish smile on your face. Your expression is riddled with awkwardness and fear. 

She was trying to put you at ease, look eased, dammit!

“Is there anything important you need to make me aware of, Lady Miko?” You asked, expecting her to issue you orders or commend your upkeep of the shrine and walk away. 

“Actually, I do have something I’d like to talk to you about. I feel this isn’t the time or place though, so all I ask is  that we meet at the Uyuu Restaurant at your earliest convenience. Sound good, little one?” She asked with crossed arms and a smile. You nodded.

“Of course, Lady Guuji.” You accepted her invitation, still very nervous. She chuckled at your worried expression and smirked.

“Glad we arranged this. I hope to see you soon, Y/N,” She sang before walking off. You waited for her to leave before continuing to work, as she instantly rushed off to check on other areas of the shrine.

What exactly did she want? You wondered to yourself. It would have been a valid question, had your words not been caught in your throat. It’s really hard to think when her sakura scent is wafting into your nose, her eyes are only on you, and that smile of hers on her face. You’re aware that she is planning something, but cannot pin down exactly what. 

Could it be something to do with the Shogun? No. She would have known better than to choose a simple shrine maiden. Chances are, she would have called upon that traveler, the one Yae called on to assist her in bringing the Shogun back to her senses. Surely they would be a thousand times more effective and helpful than you.

It definitely wasn’t something regarding shrine work, unless, of course, it is. She has had plots in the past where she would have shrine maidens play roles to assist in the success of her plans regarding the supernatural. This matter didn’t seem to worry her that much though, she didn’t seem too serious. Of course, the kitsune was careful and excelled in masking her true intentions and emotions, but it seems that this wasn’t something too urgent.

Could the Lady Guuji herself be asking you to accompany her as a friend? That would be sweet but doesn’t ease you or shake your skepticism. As unlikely as this seems, she does like watching people squirm in her presence, it can be fun for her if she’s in a playful and jovial mood. But you? Really? You shake the thought, highly doubtful that this is actually the case.

Throughout the day, your racing thoughts began to fade as you performed your duties. Assisting in practices and performing simple exorcisms (or rather, faking it because the person in question isn;t actually possessed), deciphering fortune slips, etcetera. By the end of your day’s work, you had almost completely forgotten about Lady Guuji’s request until thinking about dinner.

You hurried down the steps of the shrine, all the way down Mt. Yougo and through the grassy fields into Inazuma City. Upon nearing the restaurant, Yae already stood, anticipating your arrival. She didn’t notice you at first, this led to you tapping her shoulder and slightly jumping back when she turned to you, smiling.

“I expected you to take longer,” she laughed “shall we head inside?”

You nodded your head as she made way for you to walk through the doorway first, she immediately followed. The lights inside were charming and the setting itself was nice and cozy as well. Yes, you’ve been here before, but never appreciated it as much until being invited by her. You noticed every little detail of the place; from the various scents moving through the air, to the creaking wood and chatter from other patrons. All of these surroundings occupied your mind, consumed you as a distraction from the butterflies fluttering in your stomach. 

The two of you sat at the bar, where you both ordered the ever-popular tonkotsu ramen. The silence was awkward at first, even though the ambience of the other customers made up for the lack of conversation from the two of you.

“Aren’t you going to thank me for inviting you out tonight, Y/N?” the kitsune joked. Due to your tenseness and nervousness, you had to fight the urge to apologize profusely.

“My apologies, Lady Guuji. I am very grateful for the invitation and am glad to be here with you tonight. Thank you.” You responded, almost like you were reciting something pre-rehearsed.

“You are allowed to call me Yae, you know? I understand that you’re caught off guard but I imagined that the shock would have worn off by now.” she remarked.

“It’s kind of… see, you’re highly revered and in all honesty, I’m glad you invited me out tonight but I couldn’t quite put my finger on the reason.” You explained to her, trying your best to avoid eye contact, yet stealing glances every few words or so.

“Let me explain.” She smiled and cleared her throat subtly.

“Recently, my ideas for writing have run dry as of late. Then it dawned on me that maybe something different is in order,” She started, “After all, Yae Publishing House is renowned for paving the way, is it not?”

“What might that be?” You asked, your interest piqued.

“Well, how many romantic light-novels have you seen with two female protagonists pining for each other?” She proposed. Come to think of it, she has a point. There aren’t very many or any at all. None that are well-known anyway.

“That does sound interesting, especially since I’m big into light novels, I haven’t yet found any with that being the focus. I would definitely read it, that’s for sure.” You beamed. Yae chuckled, thankful for your insight.Your bowls of ramen were gently placed in front of , the steam warming your face and the scent making your mouth water. You were still intent to hear her plans, so you gave her a look that urged her to keep speaking.

“Come now, eat. I didn’t invite you out for you not to eat, after all.” She smiled as she raised her ladle full of pork broth up to her pink lips, savoring every last drop. You couldn’t help but stare at her pleased expression, but looked away as she noticed you looking. You heard her giggling as you picked up the noodles in your bowl and began slurping them up with delight.

After thoroughly enjoying your meals along with each others’ presence, Yae shifted in her seat to face you.

“Oh yes, one part I failed to mention,” she recalled “The reason I invited you to eat and speak with me on this matter.”

“You didn’t just want my input?” You asked her. She shook her head and giggled.

“No, I had something else in mind,” she started explaining “I wanted to see what it was really like, being in a relationship with a woman, solely to assist with  writing these two characters. What do you think?”

“You’re not proposing–” You were taken aback, absolutely shocked by what the kitsune was insinuating. Your face turned a bright red and she smirked at this physical response.

“Only for the purpose of writing this story. After all, I can split the sales with you if that’s a motivator of yours.” She proposed.

“No, no! I’m not money-hungry for anything, I’m just–” You shook your head and waved your hands, but she interrupted the oncoming explanation. She already knew.

“I know, I know. This is completely uncalled for and it concerns you that I proposed this out of the blue. Truly I understand,” Yae sympathized, placing a gentle hand on your shoulder “You have all the right to reject this offer. I will not force you to assist me, but I’d very much like it if you did.”

“I…” you tried to speak, but couldn’t muster up the words. While yes, this was quite uncalled for, you weren’t uncomfortable. Flattered, maybe, but not shifting and squirming because you wanted to leave. Only because this was quite sweet, in some weird way. She said it was fake but sincerity was sprinkled in her voice.

“I… I have decided… I will help you with this investigation of yours.” You accepted, turned away from her out of embarrassment.

“Are you certain? You look like you're quite bashful and unsure.” She asked to confirm, and you faced her.

“Miss Yae, all due respect, who in their right mind would reject an opportunity like this?” You deadpanned, causing her to giggle in response.

“I suppose you have a point.”

“So does this mean…?” You asked, raising an eyebrow. She nodded and smirked.

“Hopefully we’ll make the best of partners, my dear Y/N.” She cooed as she handed the man behind the counter a pouch of mora. She then proceeded to get up and offer her arm. You got up and grasped her forearm and smiled up at her. 

“Shall I walk you home?” She offered, a loving smile on her lips. You nodded and averted your eyes shyly.

“Yes, Miss Yae.” You grinned from ear to ear. You’d cover your face if you could. A feeling was boiling in your chest and you had no idea what it was. Not anxiety, not fear, but admiration? No. Too soon. That couldn’t possibly be it. It’s only been minutes.

“Alright, lead the way,” She said as you two headed out of the restaurant and into the beautiful night.

This is all just for the sake of inspiration, right? Then why does it feel so real?

A/N: Hi guys! I've had this idea in my brain forever and if you want the whole story (I haven't finished the second chapter yet lol), I will be regularly updating it on Wattpad! This post is the first chapter and the link below is the same thing but if you'd like to support the book, it'd mean a lot! <3

[stormbornspawn]

Anna Sawai getting her first award for Shogun! She’s a superstar! Time for the sweep!

[ovaryacted]

Watching The Emmys. Rooting for all of the BIPOC nominations 🙂‍↕️. PRAYING FOR SHOGUN AND THE BEAR SWEEP THANK YEEWWWWW!!