#and who knows maybe cybird had that possibility in mind and wanted to avoid that

[sunshine-and-her-ikevil-stuff]

Honestly I think about this too!

Religion might be a touchy subject, but I constantly wonder if/which of the villains have a religion and which character might have religious trauma.

Consider they're villains, I headcanon most of them to either be agnostic or atheist or to believe the Christian god exists but aren't religious about it (since Christianity was the dominate religion in England at the time). I also headcanon at least one villain to have religious trauma (specifically Harrison for some reason, I don't know why but I just feel like he would have grown up in the church and grown to be very disillusioned with it).

But I'm also reading that Judaism was the second biggest faith in England at the time, so it's possible one or some of the villains might either have that faith or were raised with it.

But also it might be fun to explore how their society and the people in positions of power handled religion. Like some who use it to justify their actions, or do mental gymnastics to try to justify why the Bible actually doesn't condemn what they're doing

something I think should be explored more in ikevil is the topic of religion

the only time I can recall religion being explicitly mentioned was in an event (I think it was the marriage event?) where a statue of the virgin mary almost falls on kate, and william saves her

religion is a really important factor when writing, especially in historical settings. it affects people's demeanor and values. I know it's nitpicky but it would be nice

[an-aroaces-harem]

Ivy Chapter 10

DISCLAIMER: I just deepl and google translated my way through this because I wanted to know what’s going on, so there are definitely mistakes but I believe I managed the general gist of the story. Anyway, it’s just a fan-made translation solely for entertainment purposes. Morganatic Idol belongs to Cybird and ABC Frontier, Inc.

... A few days after the incident with Hitaki-san.

After I finish cleaning, I pat my chest in relief that Ivy-san has not yet returned.

(Hurry up and go back to your room.)

But when I put my tools away ...

Jace: Aegis-chan. I'm home~

Hugh: ... I'm ... home

Rina: Ah ...

I ran into the three of them when they got home.

Ivy: Hey, Kawanaga-san.

Rina: ... Welcome back, everyone. Umm, I'm done cleaning for the day.

... I look away and tell them so.

Since that night, I tried to avoid seeing Ivy-san as much as possible.

(It's unnatural but ... impossible to be normal after being seen in a situation like that.)

(I don't know if Ivy-san, who treats me as a little sister, would mind, but ...)

That thought made my heart sink even more, and I didn't know what kind of face to put on.

Rina: I'll leave you to it ... excuse me.

Ivy: Yeah ... thanks for your help.

I walked through the side and returned to my room.

Jace: Oh my, you were strangely distant.

Hugh: She was in a hurry ...

Jace: Ivy, what's up with that girl?

Ivy: No ... nothing.

Ivy: ...

Then one day.

In the morning, the department was noisy, and I heard that there was an Essence show or something going on in Tokyo.

They were the team in charge of the perfume project and were going to visit the event to say hello.

Mori Eiko: Maybe I can make up for my presentation debacle!

Mori-san and the others were very enthusiastic. I was, of course, told to stay at home.

Yamauchi Kota: Don't say that, Kawanaga-san, you're part of the team.

With Yamauchi-san's follow-up, I was able to accompany him as a record keeper.

(Essance show ... I have to keep a record of it.)

At the end of the day, we headed to the venue of the show.

... there was an unbelievably glittering world.

Waiting for the show to start, the participants were all Hollywood actors, top artists, and other very famous celebrities from various industries.

I was completely overwhelmed by the aura that the world-class Essence show exuded.

In midst of all this. Suddenly, one part of the venue began to rustle. I looked to see what was going on.

(Oh ...!)

Ivy-san, Xeno-san and Finn-san were there.

Female Employee 1: Is exe here too!?

Mori Eiko: I think the Essence side invited them. You know, it looks like an employee of Essence is attending the meeting.

The celebrities in the audience were also excited by the appearance of exe.

The three of them were magnificent as they addressed the people who gathered to greet them.

(... come to think of it, I haven't heard about Ivy-san's work schedule lately. I used to have a good grasp of it.)

This was all because I had not been talking to him properly recently.

(This is not how it's supposed to work ...)

... when I was thinking that. Suddenly I felt a gaze.

Ivy: ...

(What? Ivy-san is looking at me?)

The moment he feels our eyes meet, he immediately turned away.

He turned to the person who spoke to him and began to respond with a smile.

(I guess it was just imagination ...)

As I was twisting my neck, Mori-san let out a small gasp.

Mori Eiko: The person Ivy-san is talking to right now is a Corsa employee! I've seen them before, that's for sure!

Corsa Agency is the largest advertising agency in Japan and is considered the most promising candidate for the perfume conveyor belt.

Mori Eiko: We can't lose! We're going to say hello too.

Led by Mori-san, who was full of fighting spirit, we approached the three members of exe.

We managed to get a chance to talk to them through an Essence employee who was on their side.

Mori Eiko: Excuse me. Exe, may I have a moment?

Finn: Hm?

Finn-san turns to us and is suprised to see me.

Finn: What? Why are you here?

(Finn-san!? You knowing me is a secret ...!)

(W-what should I do!? Ivy-san ...!)

Their eyes met, and he silently stepped in front of the members.

Ivy: Hello. We met you at a presentation. I believe the company is ...

Mori Eiko: We're from Aegis Puplic Holdings.

Thanks to Ivy-san's follow-up, Mori-san didn't seem to think it strange.

Finn: ...

Finn-san looks a little embarrassed, as if to say 'Oh shit'.

Xeno-san stares at him with a sideways glance.

(As expected of Ivy-san ...)

Relieved, I look at him with gratitude.

Ivy: ...

But Ivy-san doesn't even look at me anymore.

Mori Eiko: Thank you very much for the presentation at our company. I would like to say hello to you and your team.

Xeno: ... I see.

Ivy: I see. Thanks for coming all the way.

Mori Eiko: I am very sorry about the presentation. We were unfamiliar with the idea ...

Mori Eiko: I apologize for any discomfort this may have caused you.

Mori-san glanced at me.

(... she means I'm responsible.)

I cower.

Xeno-san seemed indifferent to Mori-san's words.

Ivy-san, who is usually so considerate of me, remained silent.

It was as if the fact that he made a follow-up for me was a lie, and the way he treated me was like that of a stranger.

(... I have no choice. It's a secret that I'm doing an extended presentation.)

I understand that their attitude is natural. And yet ... for some reason, my heart aches a little in my chest.

I'm thinking ...

Finn: Don't talk like that. Don't put all the responsibility on her.

Rina: !

I was surprised by Finn-san's statement defending me.

I'm happy, but I can't let the situation get out of hand. I bow my head hurriedly.

Rina: No, you're right. I am truly sorry.

Finn: But ...

Xeno: Stop it, Finn.

Finn: ... tsk, I get it.

With a look of reluctance, he withdrew.

(Finn-san, you have a gentle side, don't you?)

Ivy: ...

Mori-san continued to make eloquent speeches to recover her presentation.

Mori Eiko: ... If we are chosen, we will make sure to make something great!

Despite the passionate words, the three keep a cool face.

Xeno: We will handle the competition strictly, including the final decision on whether or not to accept the request.

Finn: We'll tell you the results soon, just wait and see.

Ivy: We'll be very thorough in our selection process.

That being said, I can't stay in here any longer.

Mori Eiko: ... Sorry to take up your time. Now then ...

Ivy: Yeah, thanks.

We rounded up our greetings and left the three alone.

Mori Eiko: If only I hadn't failed in my presentation, I wouldn't have had such a hard time.

Female Employee 1: Kawanaga-san, don't get carried away just because Finn-san covered for you.

Female Employee 2: It's your fault this happened.

Rina: ...

The words sharply pricked at me. But more than that, Ivy-san's curd attitude earlier weighed heavily on my heart.

Ivy: ...

Finn: Hey, what are you staring at?

Ivy: I thought I might have been a little too gentle with Kawanaga-san ...

Ivy: Look at that. She's very depressed ... Maybe people are saying things to her.

Finn: I'm sure of it. I wonder if they are always like that.

Finn: Because there are people everywhere who will always blame you for someone else's mistakes.

Ivy: ... I wish I could comfort her, but I can't.

Xeno: Don't be a fool. In this situation, you should always pretend that you're not involved.

Ivy: I know ...

I'm depressed abou Ivy-san and the coldness of all the employees.

Yamauchi Kota: Don't blame Kawanaga-san so much. You too, Kawanaga-san, don't worry too much about it.

After saying that, Yamauchi-san suddenly put his hand on my head. I froze at the suddenness of it.

(Eh ...!? W-what?)

Yamauchi Kota: I know how hard you've been working.

He stroked me gently. The way he was stroking me made me think of Ivy-san's face.

Rina: ... U-um, I'm sorry for bothering you.

I gently fend off his hand so as not to be rude.

(I need to be more persistent ...)

I changed my mind and decided to concentrate on my role as recorder.

Ivy: ...!

Xeno: Ivy, what are you so dazed about?

Ivy: Ah! Oh, no, it's nothing.

Finn: It's about to start. Let's go.

Ivy: Ah ...

--flashback--

Hitaki: … Sometimes the most precious things that we take for granted can suddenly disappear one day.

Hitaki: Please be careful.

--flashback end--

Ivy: ...

The show was a success.

Mori Eiko: I'm going straight home after this. Why don't we eat and go home?

Female Employee 1: Sounds good! There's a restaurant I'm interested in in Nogizaka ...

Mori-san and her colleagues are happily discussing the issue with each other. The names of the restaurants that come up are all popular upscale restaurants.

Mori Eiko: Come to think of it, there's a very exclusive members-only restaurant above this venue, too.

Female Employee 2: It's 'Cher d'Ou Miti', isn't it? I want to go there~

(That's a world far away from me.)

With this in mind, I looked around the area where the members of exe had been but saw no sign of them, as they seemed to have already left the room.

(Ivy-san ...)

The clerical exchange from earlier comes to mind again, and my heart aches.

(... no good. I can't believe I'm depressed just because he has been a little curt in a work setting.)

This is probably due to the fact that I have been avoiding him of late.

(I want to be natural like before, but what should I do?)

Mori Eiko: How about you, Kawanaga-san and Yamauchi-san?

We are surprised when we are suddenly approached.

(I've never been invited before. What the hell is going on ...?)

Rina: ... I'm sorry. I don't want to bother you.

I could never afford such an upscale restaurant. Puzzled, I said no.

Mori Eiko: Too bad. But expected.

(She's laughing ... Well, you knew I'd say no from the beginning.)

Yamauchi Kota: Then how about dinner with me? I'll pay for it.

Rina: What!? Oh no, I can't.

Yamauchi Kota: Don't say that. It will make you feel better.

(Is he trying to cheer me up, like what happened earlier?)

(But I'm not in the mood for that. I have cleaning to do ...)

Mori Eiko: Oh, no?

Female Employee 1: What a waste of an invitation.

Rina: No, it's really ...

At that moment, I was at a loss.

Staff: Excuse me. Is this Kawanaga Rina?

A well-dressed woman approached me.

Rina: Yes ...

Yamauchi Kota: What's the matter?

Staff: I am from Cher d'Ou Miti, and I am here to show you the way.

(Is that the high-end restaurant that Mori-san and the others were talking about earlier ...?)

Mori Eiko: W-what do you mean!? Why is Kawanaga-san invited there?

Rina: Um ... is there some kind of mistake?

Staff: No. ... It's a request from our side.

Rina: !

The name on the card she handed me took my breath away.

⤷ next chapter

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Vlad's 3rd Bday Story

Don’t read if you wish to avoid spoilers for Vlad’s route.

Expect mistakes.

[Nsfw under the cut. Minors DNI.

These translations are not intended as a replacement for the game. Please support CYBIRD by buying their stories.

Eternal You (His POV)

If I reach out my hand, I'm sure I can reach you. 

You, who I kept on seeking in eternity...

Mitsuki: "Look, Vlad. The town is so beautiful!"

Under the cozy weather, Mitsuki's skirt flutters in the air as she smiles happily.

Vlad: "Yeah, you're right."

(Why is her smile so charming?)

I smile back, feeling my heart float.

June 6. My beloved and I are on a trip to celebrate my birthday.

It all started a few days ago when Mitsuki said these words...

~~~~~~~~~Flashback~~~~~~~~~

Mitsuki: "It's almost your birthday."

Vlad: "Birthday?"

(Oh, has it been a year since Mitsuki and I celebrated my last birthday?)

As someone immortal, I usually forget how many days have passed, including my birthday.

(Until now, it was just an ordinary day in my life.)

But ever since I met her, the days have gone by faster, and even my birthday, which used to be just another day in my life, now holds special meaning for me.

(They say that good times go by so fast, but I never thought I would feel this way.)

(I guess that's how special Mitsuki is.)

Hugging the warm feelings in my heart, I respond to her with a smile.

Mitsuki: "I want to celebrate your birthday as much as possible this year. So, is there anything you want?"

Vlad: "Let's see..."

(I'm already happy just being with you, but if you're going to say things like that, then...)

Vlad: "Then, how about you spend more time with me?"

~~~~~~~Flashback Ends~~~~~~~

I wanted to spend some quality time with her, so I proposed a trip just the two of us.

(I know that some people say that traveling is more fun until you get there, but Mitsuki and I chose and planned for the places we're going.)

I'm always happy and having fun now that I can be with her.

Mitsuki: "The ocean we saw from the train is so pretty. I also heard there's a farm near here where you can pick strawberries."

Vlad: "Strawberries? Really?"

She giggles and smiles happily as my eyes light up.

Mitsuki: "You look like you've traveled to lots of places, but is this your first time here?"

Vlad: "Yeah. It's a big world, and there's probably a lot of places I don't know about yet."

Mitsuki: "I see. I guess that's true even for you."

Mitsuki: "Then, let's go to different places together and make more memories."

Mitsuki holds out her hand to me as if leading me into a strange world.

Those casual gestures of hers were so adorable that I put my own hands on top of hers, feeling happy.

Traveling alone with Mitsuki has been so much fun.

Vlad: "There are so many strawberries. Is this a paradise?"

Mitsuki: "Hehe. You really like strawberries."

Vlad: "It's a bit chilly. Here, come into my arms."

Mitsuki: "Thank you. The stars and the city look so pretty tonight."

Visiting a farm to pick strawberries, cuddling up, and admiring the night view―the time I spent with Mitsuki passed in a blink of an eye.

Then, on the day before my birthday, we visited the beach we saw on the train.

Mitsuki: "Wow! It's so beautiful."

Vlad: "True. Maybe because I'm looking at it with you, but I feel like it's even more beautiful than before."

Mitsuki: "Geez, you're saying that again."

Mitsuki smiles shyly and holds my hand as we walk along the beach.

(Is that a painter?)

A man is standing behind an easel on the beach, capturing the blue ocean on a white piece of paper.

Watching him run his brush with a delicate touch, I suddenly had a sense of déjà vu.

(This reminds me of the time I asked a painter I met on the beach to paint a picture of Mitsuki.)

It was all in the past, back when I was still searching for Mitsuki.

I wanted to keep her image in my mind, so I asked him to draw her portrait, relying only on my memory.

(But my childhood memories were so hazy that they were drowned out by the sandstorm of time.)

And so the result was that faceless portrait.

(I couldn't remember her face at the time, so I couldn't get him to paint it for me.)

(But now...)

I look next to Mitsuki, and our gazes intertwine.

Mitsuki: "What's wrong?"

Vlad: "Nothing."

Unlike before, I can now see her smile and touch her hand like this.

Painter: "Hm? Are you two on a trip? If so, would you like me to paint a picture to commemorate it?"

Mitsuki: "Are you sure? Let's go, Vlad!"

Mitsuki, with her bright voice, pulls me by the hand, and we stand shoulder to shoulder in front of the painter.

I feel the warmth of her next to me as I eagerly await her sun-like smile to be painted.

As night falls and the stars twinkle in the sky―

Back at the hotel, Mitsuki sat on our bed and looked at the portrait the artist had painted.

Mitsuki: "I'm so happy the painting turned out great."

Vlad: "Another precious memory I have with you."

We look at each other and smile.

Mitsuki: "Let's put it in a frame and hang it up once we get home."

Mitsuki: "Where would you like to hang it? You already have a painting in your room, but if you want, we could put them next to each other."

True, the painting turned out beautiful, and both the sea and Mitsuki's smile were well captured.

It would be nice to display Mitsuki's image in my room.

(But...)

Vlad: "You can keep the painting."

Mitsuki: "Huh? Are you sure I can have it?"

I sat down next to her and looked into her face as she tilted her head...

Vlad: "For me, you being by my side right now is enough."

Mitsuki: ".................."

I kissed her faintly blushing cheek and looked down at the picture in her hand.

The man in the painting is holding his beloved in his arms and smiling stupidly happy.

(I no longer have to spend my days searching for Mitsuki.)

After a long, mind-numbing time, I finally met you again...

You, my darling, made me realize once again that the world is such a beautiful place.

Vlad: "I'll never forget you again."

Vlad: "Even though the portrait I have is faceless, I can still picture your smile."

Vlad: "So, will you keep this painting with you? I want you to always feel my presence."

On that snowy day, Mitsuki's presence was deeply etched in me.

(I know it's selfish of me to want to imprint my presence in her in the same way.)

Mitsuki, however, gently softened her gaze toward me.

Mitsuki: "Got it. I'll take good care of this painting."

Mitsuki: "But you know, Vlad. I'll never forget you, either."

Mitsuki: "Because your presence is already imprinted here."

Mitsuki gently puts her hand on her chest.

Vlad: "Mitsuki..."

(You're the only one who's ever grabbed my heart like this and never let go.)

I took the painting from her hand and put it on the bedside table.

Vlad: "Is it okay if I imprint my feelings all over you?"

Mitsuki: "Of course."

She nodded, and I placed a long, deep kiss on her lips.

Mitsuki: "Ah...ngh...Vlad."

Mitsuki's sweet, troubled voice echoes through the room.

Her body bounces a little as I slowly press my fingers into her moist spot and gently loosen it up.

Vlad: "Mitsuki..."

I called her name invitingly and put my lips on hers.

Our tongues entwine, and my feelings swell every time I exchange heat with her, so much so that I don't want to miss even the gaps between our lips.

(Even though we did it countless times before, I still want to touch her even more.)

(I want to make love to her even more deeply.)

After kissing each other again and again, Mitsuki looks at her watch and smiles happily.

Mitsuki: "Happy Birthday, Vlad!"

Mitsuki: "Thank you for being born. I will always love you."

Vlad: "............."

(I'm so happy.)

After reuniting with Mitsuki, every day we spent together became precious and brightened my lonely eternity.

(I will never give up this happiness, or her.)

Vlad: "Thank you. I will love you forever too."

To convey our love, we seal our lips and unite our heat.

I drowned myself in the sweetest and lewdest way possible with the person I loved and cherished more than anyone else.

Vlad: "Mmm..."

Lured by the morning sun shining through the window, I woke up and found the woman I was supposed to be holding in my arms gone.

(I wonder where she is...)

I managed to get up and put on a shirt, and while groggily looking around, I found Mitsuki on the balcony, staring up at the sky.

Vlad: "Mitsuki?"

Mitsuki: "Oh. Morning, Vlad!"

She turns around and smiles widely.

Mitsuki: "And happy birthday!"

Vlad: "Thank you. Although I did hear a lot of that last night."

Her cheeks turn red as she remembers our sweet lovemaking.

Mitsuki: "I want to celebrate properly again. Besides, it's okay to say happy birthday as many times as I want to."

Mitsuki then took a step closer and held out something to me.

Mitsuki: "Here you go. A birthday card from me."

Vlad: "Huh?"

What she gave me was a single envelope.

I didn't expect to receive something since the trip was already like a gift. 

And as I opened the envelope, I found a postcard of...

Vlad: "The beach?"

Mitsuki: "Yup. It was painted by the painter we met yesterday. I bought it as a memento of our trip."

Mitsuki: "I wanted to keep the memories of you with me."

Mitsuki: "But you said you would give me the portrait, so that's for you."

Mitsuki: "Oh and also, I have a birthday message for you on the back."

Vlad: "Mitsuki..."

Mitsuki looks straight up at me and expresses her thoughts.

Mitsuki: "When you tried to remember me on the beach a long time ago, and I'm sure for many years you have lived in this world all by yourself."

Vlad: ".............."

Mitsuki: "But you see, Vlad, I'm here now. I know it's not enough for the eternity you waited, but..."

Mitsuki: "I want to continue to make memories like this and spend more time together in the future."

Each of her words spread slowly through my heart.

(I've had countless encounters and losses in my life.)

I gently hugged her and put my hands on top of hers as I recalled the endless hours I had spent living alone with Mitsuki in my heart.

Vlad: "Thank you, Mitsuki."

Vlad: "But you know, you were always in my heart."

Even though loneliness fell like cold snow during my journey through this beautiful and cruel world...

(Because of my hope for you, I didn't feel alone.)

(And you will be with me forever...)

Mitsuki: "Vlad..."

We both smile happily in the warmth of each other's arms and in the happiness of walking together into the future.

Vlad: "By the way, what did you write in your message to me?"

I turn over the postcard and try to read the words on it...

Mitsuki: "W-Wait, don't read it while I'm here! It's embarrassing!"

Her flustered look was so cute that it made me smile softly.

Vlad: "Heh, you wrote something embarrassing?"

Mitsuki: "That's not what I meant. Geez, if you're going to tease me, give it back."

Vlad: "Can't. It's mine now. And so are you."

I kiss her lightly on the lips, and she quickly turns red up to her ears.

I kissed her reddening cheeks and ears, and as I spent time with her in a moment of love that will surely last for years to come, I thought...

(I love you. Mitsuki)

(I have you in my heart from the past, now, and forever...)

𝓕𝓲𝓷.

[rikumorimachisgirl]

Okay, let's try this one more time. This story was given feedback by the talented @cailannuesugi and @voltage-vixen. Thank you, ladies, for your help and encouragement when I felt like giving up.

Title: Meeting the Mogul

Ikesen Modern Day AU

A/N: This is my first fic, so please don't expect it to be perfect. I also don't own Ikesen Nobunaga and the other characters except my OC. Cybird owns them.

This is inspired by the artwork I commissioned from @shrimpalompa 💕

With her eyebrows furrowed, Mia allowed her feet to drag along the length of Manhattan's busy streets. Despite the crowd of busy professionals hurrying to buy their lunches from the food trucks lined up along 50th Street, and the incessant honking of cars and taxis stuck in traffic, all she could think of is how badly she messed up her last interview.

The delightful scent of sauteed garlic and onions wafting in the air made her stomach growl slightly louder than usual. There was nothing she wanted more at that moment than to eat a nice gyro sandwich at Lil Zeus Food Truck, but with only fifty dollars to tide her over until she finds a job, she took a deep breath, turned away from the food truck, and continued to walk. She took one step after another, until the concrete pavement was replaced by a patch of green, and the sound of car horns was replaced by the catchy melody of a marching band practicing nearby.

Central Park was beautiful at this time of day - mostly because the afternoon crowd and the throngs of tourists don't frequent the place at this hour.

She sat on the grass, defeated. She had one shot at getting employed as a clerk in the prestigious firm, and she totally screwed her interview. "Seriously, who asks about the President's background during the interview anyway? " she wondered out loud still feeling bitter about her failure at the hands of Azuchi Inc's, Vice President of Human Resources, Hideyoshi Toyotomi. She sighed again, took out her mobile and typed in the keywords 'Nobunaga Oda, Azuchi Inc'. Pages upon pages of news articles about the President and CEO appeared on her screen, much to her surprise. As her finger hovered over one of the articles, she silently cursed herself for not having thought of doing this yesterday before she finally gave in and pored over the details on the mysterious mogul.

***

He watched her as she sat on the grass with her back turned to him.  He winced at the last thought; then again, she didn't seem like the type who'd pick out her dates online.From where he stood, it appeared like she was playing a game on her phone or browsing one of those social media sites his employees are so fond of... Or maybe checking out a dating site. Though she didn’t seem like the type to rely on other sources to help her find a date. His thoughts drifted to their first encounter yesterday, and he smirked.

In an attempt to avoid the possibility of listening to his Vice President of Human Resources' complaints about his decision to ride his bike to work, he opted to enter the building through the ever-busy and usually crowded Talent Management Hub. Donned in a black button-down shirt, which he wore untucked with a pair of dark denim jeans, he handed his helmet to the seemingly dumbstruck guard and made his way to the exit leading to the main lobby. Just as he was about to step into the main lobby, he felt someone grip his wrist tightly.

"Excuse me, where do you think you're going?"

He turned and saw a girl - not more than twenty-four if he had to guess - looking sternly at him while she gripped his wrist tightly.

He heard collective gasps around them, but she didn't seem to have noticed. From the corner of his eye, he saw one of the managers make his way towards them, but he stopped him before he could get any closer. The clock on the wall read 9:25 am, so he had a good five minutes before his weekly meeting with Marketing, but the girl holding on to him intrigued him so much, he didn't mind canceling. Just what was she trying to get at by stopping him, he wondered.

"Didn't you just arrive, Sir? You don't have an ID, so you must be an applicant, too," she said gently, as she tugged him to follow her to the waiting area. Still confused, he glanced at the other people who were quietly seated, trying to avoid his gaze. "It's unprofessional to cut the line, you know. Let's wait for our turn here."

He chuckled at the realization that she didn't know who he was. He decided to humor her by sitting beside her, but it didn't take long until she was called for her initial screening. It was at that moment that he decided they needed to hire her. However, when Hideyoshi dished out his infamous rapid-fire "Oda Fast Facts" on her, there was no doubt she wasn't going to be signing a contract with them.  The dashing dark-haired mogul frowned as he recalled the report he was given on the status of her application. He recognized potential when he sees one, and knew they had just let this one slip away. He left word that he was having lunch elsewhere, and took off with his Vice President of Operations following closely at his heel.

"You know what you should do next? You should buy that Lil’ Zeus food truck. Have you seen the line? It felt like ages before I got us some of these!" A familiar voice brought him out of his thoughts and he glanced sideways to see that his executive had just arrived carrying a gyro on each hand. "It's about time you got here. What was the matter, couldn't charm the ladies to get ahead? You must be losing your touch, Mitsuhide, " he teased.

The silver-haired executive smirked as he handed one of the gyros to his boss. "I'll have you know I snaked my way to the front of the line in less than 2 minutes. The cook ran out of oregano and they had to get a fresh batch." He paused for a second or two to take in the scenery before him. "So is there a reason you wanted to have lunch here?"

"No reason, " the dark-haired debonaire responded, his carnelian colored eyes sparkling with mischief as he stared at the girl whose back was turned at them once again. "I see, " Mitsuhide said, thrusting the other gyro at him. "Good luck, boss. I'll see you at the office." He flashed the young executive a dazzling smile before he turned and made his way towards the unassuming girl.

***

"That's funny, he has no pictures, " she mentioned, after opening yet another news article about the mysterious Nobunaga Oda - the sixth since she started - and there still wasn't any photos of the man in question.  

"Usually that’s the case when the person's not very good looking."

Startled at the sound of his voice, she jumped and turned around. Standing a few feet away from her was the man she met in the interview. Though she still didn't know his name considering she never asked in the interview, and he never introduced himself. Today, he was wearing a white button-down shirt, which was still untucked and a pair of khaki trousers. She never noticed how attractive he was until today - more like a model, with his tall and well-toned physique, which was evident in the cut of his clothes.  

"It's you, " she said. 

"Yeah. Me, " he replied. "Had lunch?"

"Yes, " she nodded, but her stomach wasn't having it. Her face flushed red as soon as her stomach growled. 

He snickered. "You know, I happen to have an extra gyro."

"Do you always happen to carry a spare gyro around?"

Her retort made him laugh, as he really didn't see that coming. "Did anyone ever tell you that you're hilarious, " he asked. He plopped down beside her in the grass and handed her one of the gyros. "And to answer your question, I carry them around in case I get lucky and see a pretty girl who is in desperate need of lunch." 

"My hero, " she smiled. "Thank you for this. I'm Mia, by the way. And you?"

He shrugged, ignoring the fact that she had introduced herself. "So, what were you doing on your phone, looking for a date or something?"

"Of course not, " she said, as she munched on her sandwich. "I was curious to see what Nobunaga Oda looks like."

"Why would you want to know how he looks?" 

She took out her phone with one hand and showed him the search results. "See these? I've read six articles about him, and not one of them contained any pictures of him. Isn't that strange?"

He scanned the titles and frowned. "Maybe he doesn't want his picture taken." 

"Why though? I think he's amazing. I mean, he's not even from here, yet he made a name for himself and he's been helping boost Japan's economy even from offshore. He's made a name for himself in a place where people least expected him to. His achievements are known all over Japan, and that's why I wanted so badly to come to New York and work at Azuchi Inc."

He cocked an eyebrow at her passionate response. It sure wasn't the first time he's heard people sing praises about him and his organization, but it felt different hearing it from someone who had nothing to gain from sharing this with him because she absolutely had no idea who he was. 

"Speaking of which, whatever happened to your application?" It was her turn to ask. For a moment, he almost forgot that she thought he was an applicant, too. She cleared her throat. "What's the matter? You know you don't have to be embarrassed if you didn't make it. I mean, I didn't -"

"Why did you fail?"

She frowned. That was twice he ignored her questions, yet he had the gall to ask her such a rude question. What kind of person is he exactly, she silently wondered. 

"If you're done trying to assess whether I'm trustworthy or not, would you mind answering my question?"

Rude. This man was just plain rude, she concluded. "Why do I need to answer that?"

"Because I gave you a sandwich, " he said, as he lay carelessly on the grass with his hands behind his head.. "And because you look like you're going to tell me anyway."

She sighed. Well, he wasn't wrong, she thought. "I suppose it was it because I didn't know a thing about the President and CEO of Azuchi, Inc, " she said, hanging her head low. "Except for his name, I didn't know where he came from, what his philosophy was, his advocacy, why he prefers to drink tea from Japan…"

"Don't you think that information is useless?"

"I used to. I'm not gonna lie that I felt really bad after the interview with Mr. Toyotomi. I felt bad because I thought those questions he asked me were ridiculous, " she said, as she tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. "But I realized something while I was reading through the articles about Nobunaga Oda. I now understand that Mr. Toyotomi only wanted to make sure I knew and understood Mr. Oda's vision because it is only when you understand that you can actually contribute to that vision by working hard. I didn't really know that this morning, but now, I'd do anything to get another shot at that interview."

His eyes never left hers as she spoke, and with each topic, he found himself more and more entranced by her - perhaps it was the way her face lit up and her hands moved as she spoke about the things she was passionate about, or her wistful smile as she stared at the lake in between topics. He was captivated, so much so that he hadn't noticed that time has gone by until he felt his phone vibrate. 

Frowning, he took out the sleek gadget from his pocket and was briefly surprised. It was 3:00 pm - way past his supposed lunch break. Hideyoshi would have a fit, he silently thought, smirking. 

Sighing, he sat up and brushed the dirt off the back of his shirt. "As much as I'd like to stay and talk some more -"

"You have to go, " she said, cutting him off. She watched him quietly as he straightened his clothes up and ran his hand through his messy black hair. She had never been so drawn to a person before, but there was something about him that spoke to her - maybe it was the way he listened to her like what she was saying was important or the way he challenged her opinion every now and then… or even the way she saw her reflection in his eyes when he smiled. 

The light clapping sound that resonated in the air as he dusted off his clothes faded, and she suddenly felt her heart grow heavy - like all three weeks worth of homesickness had finally kicked in. 

"You look like you're gonna cry, " he teased, as he stood and offered his hand out to her. "Are you gonna miss me?"

"Am not, " she replied while he pulled her to her feet. "But did I get you in trouble?"

"I'm late for a meeting. Nothing I can't handle, " he winked. "I'm just gonna tell them that I met an interesting girl in Central Park."

"You make me sound weird."

He snickered. "Okay. How about I say a cute girl held me hostage?"

"They're not gonna believe you, " she replied, her face turning slightly red. 

"Here, " he said, handing his phone over to her. "Let's take a picture, in case they require proof."

"And make me the laughing stock of your team, "she retorted but allowed him to take a picture anyway.

"They wouldn't dare laugh, " he assured her as he checked their picture and smiled. "This is a good picture."

"Yes, it is." She peered at his handsome face in the picture and smiled.

"I don't like having my picture taken because I always seem to look strange, but I like this one, " he smiled back. "Well then…"

"Yeah, I guess this is goodbye."

"I'll see you tomorrow at 8."

"What? Here?"

He laughed, and the rich sound tickling her ear. "At my office, silly. Tell Mr. Toyotomi I sent you there. He'll be able to give you an orientation, " he said casually and then turned to leave. 

"Mr. Toyotomi - as in the guy from Azuchi, Inc? I'm confused… Whom should I say sent me, " she called out as he started to walk. 

"Oh. Tell him I sent you, " he turned to face her once again and exaggerated a bow. "Nobunaga Oda. I never told you before, but it's a pleasure to meet you, Mia. I'll see you bright and early tomorrow."

Her heart pounded loudly in her chest as she watched him disappear in the distance, she almost failed to notice a new text message that read: 

'We are pleased to offer you the role of Assistant to the CEO. Please report to Mr. Hideyoshi Toyotomi's office at the 41st floor of Azuchi, Inc tomorrow at 8:00 am sharp. - Mitsunari Ichida, Director of Talent Management.'

End. 

[hikariobsessions]

[RANT] IkeSen’s Uesugi Kenshin - The Yandere

...Also known as “Why you shouldn’t be afraid of portraying character flaws.”

DISCLAIMER

This is another personal opinion post, (one I’ve been saving for a rainy day); this time addressing a more specific topic regarding Kenshin, which I mentioned briefly, but tried to avoid on my previous post about IkeSen’s Translations (because I didn’t want to spoil things too much and I’ll try not to reveal too much here as well). 

But it's specifically in response to an observation outlined in this wonderful paragraph by @rizosrojizos​

Another possibility that occurred to me just now is that the English team may be inclined into political correctness? That is, that they have a fixated negative understanding about what a yandere is, or that they don’t understand yandere Kenshin at all—things that get lost when trying to translate one culture into another. Maybe they fear that if they portray a more faithful translation of Kenshin and MC’s relationship, we, as a western audience, would complain about them “promoting” toxic, abusive, and manipulative relationships and possible Gaslighting or Stockholm Syndrome. That could explain why English MC is on guard and a smart mouth around Kenshin–so that we see her as a strong person, a fighter, and not a weak-minded victim. 

- I’m mainly doing this post ‘coz I’m sick of a certain stupid internet joke that got me ranting about Beauty and the Beast to my hapless, irl friend.

- Cybird’s localization team and writers are beginning to worry me about the portrayal of my favorite character, Uesugi Kenshin but I’m trying to be optimistic. (I’m gonna post this anyway before they release it)

- There will be some major spoilers in this (probably) about Kenshin’s route specifically (both routes) BUT go ahead if you don’t mind being spoiled...

- I change my usual tone compared to normal posts for rants out of impulse and the free-for-all nature I’m approaching this particular post type.

- Again if the title didn’t already warn you, this is a Rant. It’s going to be long and caked with profanity which isn’t particularly aimed at anyone, but may or may not offend some people. You have been warned, and do proceed with caution. IT’S FUCKING LONG. >.>

With that said, let’s get on with it, shall we?

Fears of portrayal

Maybe they fear that if they portray a more faithful translation of Kenshin and MC’s relationship, we, as a western audience, would complain about them “promoting” toxic, abusive, and manipulative relationships and possible Gaslighting or Stockholm Syndrome.

OKAY...

The short answer is, yes, certainly the Cybird English localization team can have inhibitions when portraying the ‘yandere’ trope. But we might just be putting words in their mouths at this point. 

Here’s the thing, Western audiences aren’t the only people that are against/or would complain about “toxic, abusive and manipulative relationships.” Japanese content makers (I imagine) also have an awareness of what kind of shit they put out in the world, and the Japanese audience, the kind of things they tolerate. 

And the portrayal of Kenshin’s yandere, I reckon, had that awareness; and he wouldn’t be the character that he is today, if they didn’t take into consideration the appeal he needed to have to feature in a fucking dating sim and win the hearts of women across Japan (apart from his noted Ikemen status).

In saying that, there’s no tangibility whatsoever (as far as I know) in assuming how cultural products are received by international audiences, so from my point of view, it’s all speculation and delves on the uncertain to the point where the conversation doesn’t necessarily get us anywhere (she says as she writes another long-ass post about the topic), unless Cybird decides to step in and give us their two cents.

BUT addressing Kenshin’s Yandere a bit more specifically based on my experience of his route...

Here are my two cents (or rather, an insane number of words for another fucking Tumblr post.)

In the same way that people & characters can be pushed into a generic stereotype, they can also be quite the exception to it. Characters are meant to portray humans most of the time or have some humane qualities about them (just look at all the Pixar movies). And as we all know (fucking hopefully) humans are much more than just one characteristic, or a label put on them. 

Take a look at Nobunaga, for example. I could call him the Domineering type or in Japanese ‘ドS’ [which vaguely means ‘Dominant Sadist’ in a way], but it doesn’t change the fact that he’s fucking ticklish, eats fucking candies or has a big-picture ambition; it’s just one aspect of his personality.

That’s why I don’t think there’s any reason for the English localization team to be scared to portray Kenshin, and his ‘yandere’ side, even if they are trying to be “politically correct”. That’s part of who he is. But it’s also not everything about him. I’m quite the individual exception, but for someone who doesn’t have that much experience liking ‘yanderes’ or has not been exposed to much anime tropes, Kenshin still became one of my favorite characters in the game. To each their own. 

***BTW I can appreciate people who are turned off by it; that’s fine, there’s nothing wrong with that. I can totally understand.*** 

***SORT OF SPOILERS***

To me, Kenshin’s ‘yandere’ aspect in the main story was portrayed as sort of flaw that kept him from striving for a healthier way of living. And that’s something he overcame (with the help of MC) and was part of his character development. Don’t get me wrong, it didn’t completely go away by the end, it just calmed down into a healthier and more playful aspect of him.

***END OF SORT-OF-SPOILERS***

On to the next point...

...they have a fixated negative understanding about what a yandere is, or that they don’t understand yandere Kenshin at all...

I’m living in the hope that Cybird and their localization team are not looking at these characters 2-Dimensionally and, personally, I know that’s arguably not the case from what I’ve seen of the released characters so far in the ENG App. So I’m praying to god that this isn’t what happens.

This might be a bias in terms of process as someone who writes my own stories...but when writing characters, or more specifically, translating characters that have already been created, don’t judge them, or at least aim for understanding first. This is advice also given to actors and directors in filmmaking when thinking about how to portray characters for the screen. Judging them is the audience’s job, not the creators.

If you judge them before you try to understand them, bias/agenda is going to show in every aspect of your work. That defeats the general purpose of storytelling, which, to me, is to convey ‘truth’ about the themes, the characters of the story and the human condition as a whole. 

***Pardon the sudden hippie vibe that the last line kinda conveyed. But I digress.***

So...if the localization team judges Kenshin based on a fucking anime stereotype and tries to “fix” him because they have this fucking inhibition about crossing cultural fucking boundaries...Just. Ugh.

Here’s @mischievouslymasamune ‘s post on these cultural differences as well.

Also for those of you who want to raise the argument of Stockholm Syndrome and whatnot...

Or you know...

Keep reading to obtain a modicum of cultural knowledge of what it is, and the issues pertaining to it. Up to you ^_^

Let’s veer away from IkeSen for a moment and look at this other cultural media that’s been in the spotlight because of the same goddamn internet joke that is fucking Stockholm Syndrome. Does anyone know what it is? I mentioned it in the disclaimer ^^^

Here’s a well-meaning media student, similar to myself, talking about it...

***The main points I want to focus your attention towards are between [1:56- 11:22].....but the entire video is worth a watch if you’re one of those people who is passionately declaring “STOCKHOLM SYNDROME” against the original Beauty and the Beast movie. IT’S NOT ABOUT STOCKHOLM SYNDROME.Thank you.***

BUT THE MAIN TAKE AWAY (as in quotes and shit from the video):

Lindsey Ellis (video person) said it best here...

“Your uninformed observation doesn’t make you smarter than the media you consume; it just means you’re not paying attention.” - Lindsey Ellis

So let’s all be informed, shall we?

Here’s a brief definition of Stockholm Syndrome:

Stockholm Syndrome which is also known as Helsinki syndrome is a mental illness developed by the hostages to cope up with the situation. The mental condition or the feelings actually arises because of the bond that develops between the hostage and the captor while performing intimate actions. In simple words we can say that Stockholm syndrome is the emotion that develops among two people where one person physically and mentally harasses the other one. -  Pramod Kerkar, MD, FFARCSI,  ePain Assist

As for Gaslighting...

Gaslighting is a tactic in which a person or entity, in order to gain more power, makes a victim question their reality. It works much better than you may think. Anyone is susceptible to gaslighting, and it is a common technique of abusers, dictators, narcissists, and cult leaders. It is done slowly, so the victim doesn't realize how much they've been brainwashed. -  Stephanie A. Sarkis Ph.D. , Psychology Today

But this is for Cybird’s localization team in particular if they are actually scared of portraying Kenshin in this way. Don’t, as Ellis observes, “miss the forest for the trees” whilst also only having “a passing pop culture knowledge of either forest or trees” when it comes to Kenshin’s route.

Now I know there are only a few people out there that have actually played the JP App and Kenshin’s route, and those of you who haven’t can only take my word when it comes to this post. 

I’ll try hard to add-in appropriate screenshots/quotes whenever I can find them to back up what I’ve seen in the stories. But with that being said...

Let’s go back to Kenshin now, shall we...?

***Also - The definition of ‘yandere’ I’ll be using, is this one and this one***

Because of recent events in the English app and how Miss Sass (English MC) has been vocal about her ‘Mr. Sad-Dangerous-Murderer’ encounters with Kenshin; he has been depicted so far as nothing beyond that. 

Maybe they’re just setting it up, maybe not; maybe they’re trying to act consistently with how Miss Sass has reacted to Kenshin in the released routes so far...maybe not. Who knows? I’m not Cybird. I wouldn’t mind so much if it was the former, and if you’ve read my previous rant, you will already know how I feel about Miss Sass. 

The main problem I think we have with regards to this story, I suppose, is the fear that it will be depicted as an abusive/manipulative relationship in Kenshin’s part. ...There’s also the fear that Miss Pure (Japanese MC) was subject to Stockholm Syndrome and hence, Miss Sass would also be..... *SIGH* 

You all need to give more credit to Cybird’s Japanese team. Seriously. 

Remember what I said above about characters fitting into a stereotype, but also being quite the exception to them? 

Well, here’s Kenshin breaking stereotype:

Mr. Crazy inside and out

...the Yandere is sweet outside, crazy inside... - TV Tropes

- From the moment she meets him, Kenshin has never taken on the facade of a gentle, sweet and caring person. Instead, it’s the opposite. He scares people so as not to get close to them. But MC starts to see beyond that.

Translations:

MC: ...You know, at first glance you really come off as cold and unfriendly but... I can’t help but notice the part of you that’s kind and has this strong sense of honor.

Kenshin: What kind of dull joke are you spouting out now?

Little by little, I began to see Kenshin’s true self. While also never bringing to light my role as chatelaine for the Oda Army.

- Kenshin’s Yandere is crazy inside and out. In other words, the craziness he holds inside him manages to seep out into his actions, whether he’s conscious of it or not. This is seen, not just in how he acts towards MC, but also against Sasuke and other people that are close to him (often a comedic interpretation). 

- His unhealthy violent yandere nature is honest and well-established from the get-go, but not lauded. Especially, by the MC. She questions his love for war, and further on into the story she sees it as a flaw that he has that’s been influenced by his past and needs time to heal

Mr. Too-innocent-or-in-denial-about-his-feelings-to-be-manipulative

MC: “Is there something wrong with other people seeing me? Will it somehow cause trouble for you?”

Kenshin: “I don’t know. But just imagining it somehow makes me feel unpleasant.”

- In the beginning, there are no pretenses when it comes to how he has resolved to live according to his values. He likes war, so he lives and plans on dying for it. He likes sake (alcohol) and pickled plums, so he eats and drinks as much as he pleases etc. etc.:

「乱世の生は短い。ならば、せいぜい己の自由に生きるのだな」

“Within these chaotic times, life is short-lived. With that in mind, all one can do is live freely to the best of their ability.” - Kenshin to MC

- In this sense, he isn’t manipulative. He’s way too straightforward for his own good and arguably, somewhat innocent because of that.

- The only time when he's consciously in denial of his own feelings is when it comes to MC because of his ‘issues’. Even the term ‘conciously’ is debatable.  He can’t even explain it himself for crying out loud. ^^^ see screenie above.  

- Also, his actions when he has MC imprisoned seems to be consistently at odds with what he says/thinks himself while she’s in there (bunny army, a moon-gazing date, bachelor pad tour etc.). 

The fucking prison wooing Shenanigans of Mr. God of War. I mean seriously if you’re gonna be a kidnapper/captor, at least try to be a dickhead. (NO. PLEASE DON’T. I LOVE YOU JUST THE WAY YOU ARE)

I want you to smile. -Kenshin, probably.

This is THE BIG ONE.

....but the Yandere's jealous, possessive and obsessive nature won't let them accept the possibility that the person they love can be happy without them. - TV Tropes

Apart from the fact that he has her locked up, in no way does Kenshin act as an abusive captor. He doesn’t harass her into liking him. He doesn’t try to overpower her, mentally, to get her to stay with him. Do we all remember our definitions above ^^^? If not, scroll up and let’s keep on being informed.

This doesn’t mean he isn’t “PROBLEMATIC”. This doesn’t mean he isn’t “POSSESSIVE”. In his main story, Kenshin’s possessiveness comes from the fear of losing MC, and his backstory explaining why he is the way he is. But again, even with that in mind, his “possessiveness” is never put on a pedestal or lauded, especially by MC.

PLUS the MC certainly isn’t ignorant of the ‘issues’ that Kenshin has --- but at the same time, she doesn’t try to overlook the genuinely good man behind these flaws (backstory or not).

<<<MAJOR PLOT SPOILERS AFOOT. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED>>>

「教えろ。どうしたら以前のお前のように笑顔になる」

“Tell me. How can I make you smile the same way you did before?” - Kenshin to MC

OKAY.

I was looking for references and stuff I’ve written down, and I couldn’t stop myself shedding a tear while looking back at Kenshin and MCs interactions. MY HEART WAS BEING STABBED REPEATEDLY FOR THE SAKE OF THIS GODDAMN POST. 

I just...gnnhh... *dies briefly* ---> *is resurrected by the miracle that is Kenshin’s character development* 

I don’t want to get into this that much because the example I’m thinking of is basically the CLIMAX of Kenshin’s route. For both romantic & dramatic. And I don’t want to ruin it ^^; (those of you have done it in JP app perhaps you know what I’m talking about ;))

<<SEMI-SPOILERS>>

But the point that gets across in this part of the story, is that there’s no doubt just how much Kenshin loves MC. To the point where he decides that letting her go (despite his possessiveness), is much better than having her get hurt because of his way of loving/or hurting her because of how he is.  

For a “yandere” to do that -- to value the happiness/well-being of the person they love over their own obsession with them, and being like:

IF THAT’S NOT LOVE, I DON’T KNOW WHAT IS. And apologies guys, but the hipster vibe is strong in this one.

"Love is when the other person's happiness is more important than your own."— H. Jackson Brown, Jr. 

“You don’t know about real loss, ‘cause it only occurs when you love something more than you love yourself” - Robin Williams, Good Will Hunting

And to Kenshin’s MC

“I knew that love, to me, is when you’re looked at and the person looking at you sees you whole. They don’t look at you with any desire for change, with any lacking being visible. Love is complete understanding.” - Guillermo Del Toro, The Shape of Water

(How’s that for a fucking movie reference, Clarice?)

<<END OF SEMI-SPOILERS>>

We all have different definitions/interpretations of love. In the stories we experience in IkeSen there are various portrayals of just that: different kinds of love. And Kenshin’s love story just happens to be one of my favorites because it stands on its own when it comes to uniqueness and how heartfelt it is. 

And simply put I would hate to see it ruined because of what? Cultural differences? A fear of portraying a character because of a vague definition of a stereotype? 😢 COME. ON. 

So now, before I start throwing fucking flowers everywhere and preaching world peace; how about we answer, the golden question?

Does MC have Stockholm Syndrome and/or is she a victim of Gaslighting through Kenshin?

^^ Considering all the stuff I said above, perhaps we can cut this answer short ^^

Rest assured, that the relationship that develops inside the prison is by no means, abusive nor manipulative. Therefore MC doesn’t develop feelings for Kenshin out of survival instincts or as a coping mechanism. She chooses to stay, based on her own reasons and is not “brainwashed” to do so.

What are her reasons? Well, you’ll just have to find out when Kenshin’s route is released (if they decide not to change it) or, you know, get the JP app. Whichever.

Here’s the thing... YES, Kenshin is possessive; YES, he is problematic; and YES he does lock you up in a twisted act of caring--

BUT PLEASE let’s not start using random internet-jokes-disguised-as-fucking-“science”-terms so hastily.

Oh, and just to keep us going on our well-informed streak...

In many parts of the world, Stockholm syndrome is referred to as contested illness but many legal authorities consider it as a fake mental condition. -  Pramod Kerkar, MD, FFARCSI, ePain Assist

A fake mental condition.

Final thoughts

If you’ve read this far, well done  😮 👏🏽 👏🏽 You are probably a very tolerant and patient person (with a huge amount of free time, as I do ^^;), so thanks for reading  😭 😭

I’ll be leaving you with thoughts on the ENG MC x Kenshin.

In the Japanese App, there’s no doubt that the MC is depicted to be a lot more patient and tolerating. I suppose you could argue that that’s the kind of person that’s needed to fall in love with an intense character like Kenshin.

But if the ‘Miss Sass’ thing seeds into Kenshin’s Main Route in how it’s depicted in English; and becomes this competition for fucking dominance, given Miss Sass’s no bullshit and judgmental attitude...I really don’t know how I’m going to feel about it (I actually do --- but let’s not make this post more profane and unprintable than it needs to be). 

Hehe 😅 And there you have it, I’ve had my fill~

As with anything when it comes to these rants, if you have your own arguments, disagreements or opinions on anything that has been said, please feel free to comment, message, reblog -- coupled with a degree of civility, of course.

I’ll be more than happy to start discussions with people, ENG and JP users alike; and other users from other walks of life for that matter~ ^_^ Cheers everyone and stay kind~

-Hikari <3