#but the rest?? why is date masamune a little boy? why is mitsunari a kid?

[finalsorrow]

nooo haha dont be cool and mysterious mr oda or i’ll want to rp you

[ikeromantic]

First Day pt. 2

This is an Ikemen Sengoku coffee shop AU. Approx 1400 words. Nobunaga, the owner of Azuchi Cafe, hires a girl to work in his coffee shop alongside his other oddball employees.

Pastry Chef and little rain cloud: Ieyasu Tokugawa

Head Chef and irredeemable flirt: Masamune Date

Dining Room Manager and rule-master: Hideyoshi Toyotomi

Barista and most popular kid in your class: Ranmaru Mori

Barista and coffee disaster: Mitsunari Ishida

Accountant and walking bad-boy vibe: Mitsuhide Akechi

Grouchy customer with sexy-rich-class attitude: Kenshin Uesugi

Walking nerd-encyclopedia and corporate flunkie: Sasuke Sarutobi

I have never written a coffee shop AU and I have no idea what I'm doing. Yet I keep doing it. Seriously. I can't get this out of my brain right now.

First Day pt. 1

Nobunaga found it hard to concentrate with the girl there. His eyes kept seeking her out. His thoughts drifting to her when he was supposed to be focused on re-orders, contracts, budgeting . . . He glanced up from his laptop to see Ranmaru standing entirely too close to her. The barista was showing her how to operate the espresso machine, his chin resting lightly on her shoulder.

He might have said something, but the door swung open just then and in walked their most troublesome customer. Useugi.

Kenshin took in the cafe with a displeased glare. His good looks were offset by the miasma of violence and suppressed emotion that hung in the air everywhere he went. Despite his angelic features, heterochromatic eyes, and gorgeous platinum locks, he intimidated nearly everyone in his path. Everyone but Nobunaga and his cafe crew, which was why he kept returning to this insignificant coffee shop when he could have gone anywhere.

His personal assistant hurried in after him and quickly moved to one of the tables, pulling out a chair for his boss. “Sir?”

Uesugi sat with a slight grimace. “That took you .5 seconds longer than last time. Perhaps I should replace you, Sarutobi.”

“Of course sir.” Sasuke Sarutobi’s expression of mild amusement didn’t shift in the slightest. He gave his boss a slight bow and headed for the counter. “One half-caf medium with exactly one pump raspberry and one pump chocolate, oat milk, extra foam, caramel drizzle and curls. And a shot of espresso on the side.”

Mitsunari doesn’t even blink. “Is that all, sir?”

Kenshin doesn’t turn, but a slight smirk turns his lips up at the corners. “Order for the entire office, Sarutobi. My treat.”

It takes several minutes to deliver the complex coffee orders. Everyone’s favorite everything, to exacting specifications. A light sweat breaks out of Mitsunari’s forehead, but he keeps smiling.

Ranmaru isn’t so sanguine. “You’ve got to be kidding me. Two and three-quarters pumps of peppermint? Half white chocolate drizzle and what?”

The girl laughs. “I didn’t know you could put so much in your coffee.” She begins to prep the first order, moving a little slowly as she tries to remember where each product is and how to work the machines.

Nobunaga tenses, ready for Kenshin’s inevitable outburst. Any delay would send him into a violent rant with threats of lawsuits and putting you out of business and blah blah blah.

Uesugi turns around with clear intent but when his eyes fall on the girl, they widen. “You . . . hired a woman? In a coffee shop?”

The girl gives him an over-the-shoulder smile. “Sorry about the wait for your drink, sir. I hope I got it right.” She puts the finishing touches on top of the foam and walks the cup over to Kenshin’s table.

His eyes get wider the closer she comes. “You -” He seems to be at a complete loss for words.

Sarutobi looks concerned. His gaze floats between the girl and his boss for a moment, unsure if he should intervene.

“Get out of my sight,” Kenshin mutters, but the demand is half-hearted. “Women are such a distraction. Completely unnecessary in business.” He throws an irritated glance at Nobunaga. “Did my competition tell you to bring this - this girl here today?”

Sasuke slips around to the girl’s side and pulls her out of the danger zone. “Sorry about the boss. He’s a little unstable. Stress. Childhood trauma. The usual.” He blinks awkwardly as if both eyes were trying to wink at the same time.

“Of course not,” Nobunaga grins. Something about Kenshin’s intensity always made him want to needle the man. “But then, if they had, why would I tell you?” His carnelian eyes narrowed. “Maybe I’m your competition.”

“I could put your little coffee shop out of business,” Kenshin growled.

“Try it and see what happens.” Nobunaga was standing now, his voice low and menacing.

Ieyasu poked his head out of the kitchen and frowned. “Is Nobunaga fighting with customers again?”

“Yep.” Ranmaru grinned.

Masamune peered out, grinning widely. “Somebody get the lass a mop. This is going to get ugly.”

The girl pulled away from Sasuke and pushed between the two angry businessmen. “Excuse me, but could you both sit down? I’m very sorry if I caused you any discomfort, sir.” She looked at Kenshin, met his cold stare head on. “You might think a woman doesn’t belong in business, but flats don’t pay for themselves.”

“Great. Will someone grab the first aid kit,” Ieyasu muttered.

Masamune chuckled. “The lass has got balls of steel.”

Mitsunari was poking around for a first aid kit for Ieyasu, but he looked up at Masamune’s comment. “Does she? I didn’t see her carrying any kind of ball.”

Ranmaru giggled. “Should I explain it to you?”

“Don’t you dare.” Ieyasu cut the pink haired barista off.

Kenshin sat heavily, the tension suddenly emptying from him. “Your boss needs to teach you how to speak politely to customers.” Then he turned away from her and began to drink his coffee.

Sarutobi sagged for a moment in relief. “You must be a half-elf paladin,” he told the girl as she stepped past him.

“I don’t know what that is.” She shrugged and gave him a lopsided grin. “I’m actually putting myself through school to be a fashion designer.”

“Ah, creative, beautiful, and brave.” Sasuke blushed, realizing he’d said that aloud.

“Hey, don’t flirt with her, you corporate flunky. She’s our new hire.” Ranmaru grabbed her arm and pulled her back behind the counter.

“That’s right lad. Take your to-go order and go.” Masamune frowned.

Ieyasu elbowed him. “Not that I care, but if she’d been assigned to help me with the pastries, she wouldn’t be out here where nerdy customers could attempt awkward pick-up lines.”

“I apologize,” Sasuke said stiffly.

The girl smiled. “Don’t worry about it! You’ll have to come back sometime and tell me what a half-elf paladin is.”

Her inviting expression only made the glowers of her co-workers more obvious.

Sarutobi made a dignified exit, leaving with the drink orders for his office.

Hideyoshi took the opportunity to take the girl aside. “I appreciate what you did there, but you shouldn’t be throwing yourself into danger. Are you ok? Do you need a break? How about you sit down and we’ll get you a tea.”

“I’m really alright,” she told him. “I mean, it was a little scary but he wouldn’t have actually hit me.” Her eyes widened. “Right?”

“You are clearly new to this city if you haven’t heard the Kenshin horror stories.” Hideyoshi sighed. “Just, from now on let one of us handle it. It’s barely your first day so stick to the easy stuff.” He led her to the breakroom and sat her down on a tatty old sofa.

The break room was a sacred space for the cafe employees. A spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat out of the customer’s prying eyes. Nobunaga kept it comfortable, with an old couch and a couple of overstuffed chairs. A set of shelves held antique tea sets and some paperback books. There was a tv on the opposite wall and some potted plants in the windowsill on the far wall.

Ieyasu brought her tea and a strawberry pastry. He sat down, wearing an expression of pure annoyance. “So what. Are you suicidal?”

“What? No!” The girl looked at the tea and then back up at the annoyed blonde. “I just don’t like it when people fight. Someone might get hurt. And it would be especially bad if I caused it.”

“So just an idiot then.” Ieyasu sighed. “I don’t know what I expected. Nobunaga doesn’t hire normal people.”

“You realize that includes you, right?” She giggled.

Ieyasu looked away. “Whatever.”

The girl quietly sipped her tea. That lasted until she took a bite of the sweet, crumbly strawberry pastry. “Oh . . . this is . . . this is really good!”

“You don’t have to sound surprised,” Ieyasu huffed. Despite his tone, he wore a slight smile. He turned his head a fraction to look at her.

“It’s just, strawberries are my absolute favorite and this is - you blended the flavors perfectly. Not too sweet, and the fruit is the first and last thing on my tongue.” She finished eating it with a happy sigh. “I feel like I could eat a whole pan of these.”

Ieyasu busied himself with picking up the tray. “Then you’d get a tummy ache and I’d have to waste my time making you ginger tea.”

She laughed. “You know, I think under all that grouchiness you must be a really nice guy. I can tell by how you bake. You couldn’t make such sweet things if you were really that sour.”

For a heartbeat, Ieyasu was struck speechless. His mouth opened and closed as crimson crept across his cheeks. “You just proved you're an idiot,” he finally managed, sounding more breathless than annoyed. He hurried out of the room.

[readerinsertfanfiction]

Hehe we talked about it 2 seconds ago and here i am😂😂can ya pretty please write an wardrobe hc for ikesen plz (whick ever of the sweet bois u want) of how they would react to MC who loves wearing gym/exercise clothes ie i only wear tights, sports bra and crop tops like they are sooo comfortable ❤🔥🥰 thanx love ❤🌻

😂 asdfghjkl. Ded. Okay, okay let’s get down to this. 

Context: I joked around that I would give out headcanons for those who want if they give me a description of their wardrobe. 

Fandom: Ikemen Sengoku

Characters: I’m aiming for the whole cast and I did it! Yes! 

Oda Nobunaga 

His first reaction is curiosity. What is this style? What are these clothes you wear and what are they made from? He wouldn’t mind that it is so revealing, scandalising so, in fact he would probably enjoy it and make an indecent joke or two.

If you’re intimate with him he will make sure that you only wear those clothes in private, when it is only you and him. He doesn’t need you to scandalise the rest of his men, but he definitely doesn’t want them to see your skin as much as he does.

I can see him jokingly pull out a fundoshi (Japanese traditional underwear) to compare to your clothes and then laugh about it very loudly.

Will definitely make the above joke when you first meet and he summons you to the war meeting in your usual clothes. It will be humiliating, but then he will offer you some era-appropriate clothes.

Hideyoshi Toyotomi 

Scandalised. He will screech like a victorian governess about the inappropriateness of your clothes. Immediately throws his coat over you.

Will always be nagging at you to wear something more appropriate, or to think of your position. “You’re dragging the name of Lord Nobunaga down!” -- though he means well and actually is looking out for you, but do please, argue with him, don’t have him talk to you like that.

After a while he will just carry an extra cloak with him to throw over you. “Hideyoshi, aren’t you warm with that second coat?” “Yes, yes, I am, but I got to protect the dignity of my lord!”

Again, I wish to press the fact that he is more worried about your well-being than Nobunaga’s name, he just says it is for the sake of his lord’s reputation, because that honestly is easier to argue about for him.

Ieyasu Tokugawa

What is this? Why is he always turning around and heading for the other way? Is he avoiding you? What? Ieyasu Tokugawa will not deal with the extra skin.

Will probably also throw an extra blanket or cloak over you. “You look cold, you should wear more clothes.”

He really can’t be honest about it, but the extra skin, the form-fitting clothes, they are the reason why he can’t look you in the eye. There is so little left to the imagination and he is still a man and oh gosh, he is blushing.

Please don’t confront him about the fact that he is trying to avoid you. He will make up some sharp excuse and say something he regrets in regards to your clothes and oh, the shame.

Mitsuhide Akechi

Well, this is interesting. Are fabrics expensive from where you come from? Is that why you wear so little? Another result of poverty, or some outrageous sense of fashion that he isn’t aware of yet?

Would see the practicality in the form-fitting tights. They do help with movement, but still, are they also supposed for seduction? Definitely an effective distraction mechanism.

Will make little jokes about how you are probably wearing kid-sized clothing, because that top really should be covering more than just your chest.

Yes, he will tickle you. Your waist will be the main target, because if you are going to reveal that so easily he is going to take advantage of that. I hope you aren’t ticklish.

Masamune Date

It is canon that he (dis)likes our modern undergarments, I think? So, modern gym wear? Count him a fan.

Plenty to see, just enough covered for him to still enjoy. It is bold, it is flashy, it is just his style.

If you ask him he will probably try a crop top or the tights. He will have to say he prefers the crop top, they are nice and flowy. Perfect for a hot day of training, or when in the kitchen. The tights he isn’t a fan of, they feel like they are pressing the blood circulation out of his legs.

Probably the most enthusiastic of the bunch to see and learn more about modern clothes and especially exercise (read: gym) clothes. Your world sounds fascinating and very practical!

Mitsunari Ishida

I can actually see him being blissfully unaware of the extra skin and the form-fitting clothes. He won’t realise it until it is pointed out and even then he won’t see anything wrong with it.

“If you’re comfortable you should wear them!” he will say. “You always look good to me!” he will compliment.

Honestly will be the nicest about it from the bunch. This man is a god-given gift, an angel who fell down to the earth and forgot his wings.

When the weather gets chillier he will worry about you, however. “Ah, are you sure you don’t want anything warmer and more comfortable?” he will ask, but he won’t force you into anything if you tell him no.

Ranmaru Mori

Everyone’s little brother will be a little confused over your dress. What did you call it now? A crop-top?

I feel that, if you have him wear your clothes he will rock them, and even enjoy them. It is like having a little sibling that you can dress up and the likes.

“What? Why are you calling me cute! You are the cute one!” he exclaims, though he does enjoy the attention given, and the colours that crop-tops come in. The tights can stay away, though.

Will be a little bit conscious of your somewhat revealing wardrobe, but will try not to act scandalised about it. He tries to respect you for your choices, even if he worries for your safety and the eyes of the rest of the men.

Yukimura Sanada

He will blush. A lot. And act very scandalised. Mostly because he has no idea how to react to your wardrobe, but also because he can’t get his mind out of the gutter.

“I’m a man too, you know!” he will warn you. Cue confused expression, because what does he mean with that? Gosh, Yuki, no, it isn’t because you’re not considered a man, doof. #misunderstanding.

Will hide you in his sleeves when given the chance. Kimonos have wide sleeves and that means fabric that can cover you up. He will probably not think of carrying an extra cloak with him, because it is Yuki.

“Is this your secret to seducing the Oda-forces!” he will accuse you. Goodbye witchcraft, it is definitely the clothes that are to blame.

Shingen Takeda

“Is this how the gods above dress?” he jokes, appreciating the fashion and how it accentuates your figure.

Though, he will joke around that he will die of blood loss before his illness because of you.

“It is just me, or is it rather hot in here?” he jokes, stripping off his own top.

This man will appreciate it and try to match himself to it as well. It will be a show for sure.

Kenshin Uesugi

Will start out with his usual misogynistic remarks. “Trying to seduce my men, wench?” he says with enough malice.

Though, when he warms up to you he will mind your dress in a whole other way. “If you aren’t careful I will have to hide you,” he warns.

You will see that cage a lot faster than you did before and it is your wardrobe that is to blame. Not that he will let you out if you start dressing more era-appropriately.

Does not enjoy how other people are staring at you for your dress. Will threaten anyone who stares for too long, man and woman alike.

Sasuke Sarutobi

He is used to it, honestly. 21st century man from Japan. He probably has walked through Akihabara (the anime-district in Tokyo) more than once as well. He has seen his fair share of fashion and you are honestly tame.

However, since this is the sengoku era in which they aren’t very friendly towards strangers and basic human rights don’t exist yet he will worry. He will worry himself senseless and follow you around in the shadows.

“Are you sure you don’t want to dress yourself according to the era?” Sasuke tries to reason with you, but after a while he will just relent himself to it.

Will come up with something creative to meet your wishes and wants and that of the Sengoku era standards. There is a hidden fashion designer sheltered within this man.

Yoshimoto Imagawa

Not going to lie, but I feel he will find offense in your wardrobe. He strikes me as rather traditional.

Thinks it is rather classless, though he appreciates the colours. Otherwise he will mourn the loss of the fine sensibilities and elegance that comes with the traditional kimono.

“Must you reveal so much of yourself?” he questions, wondering what the aesthetics are like in your world. Though in time he will come to appreciate it, even if he doesn’t entirely understand.

Will ask you a bunch of questions on why you prefer this. Is it for flowiness and comfort? What about the yukata, have you tried that? Lighter fabrics? Will marvel a bit over the fabrics of your clothes, but also mourn the loss of quality that usually comes with mass-produced clothes.

Kennyo

Frowns at the clothes, wonders why, but keeps his opinions to himself, otherwise. You are your own person and he respects that.

Will make a comment on how men are beasts and beasts can’t be trusted, but otherwise will fight anyone tooth and nail if they dare to harm you, because just because you are dressed weirdly does not mean that they have any right to touch you!

Does marvel at the ease of your clothes and their efficiency. The warrior monks should honestly start to consider employing those tights of yours, because they are definitely a lot better than whatever they are using now and a lot easier to wear.

Will scowl at crop-tops however, because, no. Those are just useless pieces of fabrics that are better off used as napkins. Are you sure you didn’t accidentally run out of fabric when making these?

Motonari Mouri

The one who will mind it the least from all. It will remind him of the belly dancers in the middle-east - arabic countries.

Will definitely ask you if you could perform a dance for him. Feel free to feel offended and to call out this offense, because he does deserve a good wipe-off.

Will be the one supplying you with more short tops, though you can bet that they are more revealing that crop-tops. “What, I thought you liked them short and baring?” he questions, not understanding the difference.

From what I can see from his character design his pants are what comes closest to what your tights are. He will definitely be pulling at the fabric and wonder how it is so stretchy and comfortable and light. He will definitely need to loot a bunch for himself from wherever you got yours.

[emeraldtawny]

Why I Love The 7 of Hearts

...I said I would do it. And now that it has officially been one month since his route release, the official banner for spoilers is now lifted! That being said, I’ll put a disclaimer now: I will be talking about key aspects and spoilers from Kyle’s route. Be warned.

Alright, now onto my thesis. Title: Why Kyle Ash Is My Favourite Otome Husband To Date - An Incredibly Biased Review, by Tawny ^w^

Part 1: Before his route

Before we talk about the actual route itself, let me explain to you guys why this man already had my heart before even getting to date him. I’ll be honest; when the game first came out, he was already in my top 3 but he was not the best boi (that went to Fenrir and stayed like that for a bit). That is, until I played through Lancelot’s route. Being able to get more interactions with Kyle gave me more insight into the kind of person he is, and I honestly liked what I saw. He condemned Lancelot for throwing his life away needlessly without concern for his safety (important note to come back to) and made it clear that his affiliation with the Red Army didn’t mean anything when there are lives on the line (another impotant point to revisit). I honestly respected that about him and sure enough, he snuck his way into top spot and has stayed there since. And if I’m being real, his route has completely solidified that. He ain’t moving. Ever.

Personal Rambling #1

Okay, now comes the fun part hehehe >:3

With the question “did you enjoy Kyle’s route?”, is there an option for “everything” and also “yes yes yes, holy shit yes”? Because, Kyle’s route is a big fat YES out of 10 for me, and I say that as unbiasedly as possible. I noticed that there didn’t seem to be any dev notes released before Kyle’s route dropped (my poor boi getting shafted :c), so allow me to give you my own variation:

Kyle

Recommended if you like: Yukimura (brusque yet sweet, kind of an idiot but means well) and Mitsunari (oblivious genius)

Sexy…7

Drama…7

Romance…9

Dev Notes: For a man so smart, he’s awfully clueless when it comes to you. This weirdly approachable doctor may lack tact, but that doesn’t stop the blood pressures rising and the hearts racing - both yours and his. Get ready for an angst road bump at part 20 (as well as his Dramatic Ending), but rest assured that the doctor is here to see you now.

When I say he’s a combo of Yuki and Mitsunari, I’m not kidding. He’s basically Yuki without the full-on tsun tendencies (he has a few, but you could call it more embarrassment and awkwardness compared to being a tsundere) and then a touch of Mitsunari’s infuriating obliviousness and bam, you got Kyle!

I won’t give a synopsis of the route, since you’ve all likely read it or know most of the story (why on earth are you reading this far in otherwise?) so allow me to share with you, my personal favourite chapters/parts of his route!

Chapter 7 - the first (and definitely not last) instance of a blushing Kyle in his natural habitat. Bonus for glasses uwu

Chapter 14 - the introduction of Goo, the new best pet in Cradle (sorry Chutney). Legit, I recorded that entire section where Kyle and MC are naming Goo and I was just squeeing like a deranged lunatic because I loved it so much like bdjxbgdkfnxfkd

Chapter 24 (His POV) - DRUNK KYLE POV. Of course, he’s still cognitive to have proper thoughts, it wasn’t Masamune levels of drunkenness. But...jealous Kyle. That right there is a rarity but WOW, it’s a treat ;3

Towards the end of the route when MC finds Kyle’s confession written on his freaking hand (Kyle you doof) and just...him burying his amused smile into the crook of his elbow when she says she likes someone…..HNNNNNGGGGGGG yes

Part 2: Character Development

This man has such strong convictions to his profession that it’s honestly admirable. He may only have one pillar to stand on, but that pillar is strong and immovable. I’m of course talking about this line: “I absolutely despise people who are ready to throw away their lives”. Sound familiar at all? Remind you of...a certain Red King? Honestly though, this commitment to his work as a doctor when he seems to do nothing else except drink himself into a stupor most nights (if not every night) is awe-inspiring, and I’m not the only one who thinks so.

The MC in Kyle’s route is my new favourite. I love how the romance she develops for Kyle starts off as simple admiration, just her wanting to follow in his footsteps and prove useful to people without provoking the war occurring around her. She’s grounded and has a clear purpose, which is refreshing compared to other iterations of her being more meek and more better categorised as a “damsel in distress”. Don’t get me wrong, I”m not criticising those types of MCs. It’s just nice to see a driven MC with a clear goal and a motive for why she wants to do the things she does, enough for her to stay longer than the allotted month (something NONE OF THE OTHER ROUTES DO, HELL YEAH KYLE!). She actively chose to stay in Cradle - even when her ticket home was right in front of her - because she wanted to help Kyle save lives. It’s refreshing. And it makes for some great interactions between her and Kyle, especially later in the route when they’re more comfortable with each other. Which leads me onto my next point…

It felt like a real relationship. The slow growth and blooming of feelings, the cute interactions they’d share (every time Kyle stroked her hair or bopped her on the head, my heart exploded into confetti), and how awkward they both were with each other. God, if you guys could have seen me reading his route with my dumb dopey grin and squeaking like a lovesick children’s toy every 10 seconds...I was a mess gielkdsnglkd.

I love how they let us see into Kyle’s world. It may be a simple outlook on life, but you can’t fault the man. His strong conviction to save as many lives as he can because he feels it’s what he was made to do, and his importance on smiling and presenting a calm, friendly image of himself as he treats his patients (remember the line “People are like mirrors.”. It’s important.). He’s a very “my pace” kind of person, and it was fun to just kind of...relax a bit. Sure, war preparations were happening but wait one moment, please. I need to educate Jonah on what is needed for a balanced nutritious breakfast. It was refreshing to see a route that was surprisingly chill for most of it until the ending crescendo, and I welcomed it.

Alright….angst time. All of the little hints we were getting, like his role of the 7 of Hearts not being “set in stone”, had me squinting at the screen like “boi, what you hiding?”. When we got to drinking with Kyle, Oliver and Blanc and the conversation of Kyle having a brother came up, I was like “....oh. This is gonna be baaad.”. And this wasn’t even including Colin (because when a character gets named, you know they’re important.). But…..Chapter 20. It actually came out of left field, sucker-punched me in the kidney, cracked my heart and left me crying as I’m just reading this whole thing unfolding. Colin’s heartbroken cries, Kyle’s unmoving unresponsive form as he lets Colin punch him, the symbolism and connection of both Kyle and Colin having lost an older brother because of the war. I’m….. ;~; aaaaaa. And then in the Avatar Challenge following the angst, MC throws the “people are like mirrors” line back at him to get him to break down a bit, to let some emotion out, and I was just a blubbering mess at this point. The route is generous enough to give you a floof and mild spice break, but then if you choose the Dramatic Ending…..you…..you visit...his brother’s grave...and the waterworks begin again.

Continuing on from the point above, this means Kyle also has connections with The Day That Went Dark, along with Fenrir and more importantly, Ray. From the way it was described in Kyle’s route, he himself doesn’t know for certain if Ray used magic or not. He only knows that Ray was there when shit went down. So even after his brother passed from the tragedy, Kyle held no animosity or desire for revenge against Ray; very fitting for his character. This route made me realise just how similar Kyle and Ray are: they’re both very determined in their ways to keep the peace and they both hold strong to their views of freedom and honesty (Ray and Kyle respectively). And you can tell that Kyle doesn’t hold it against Ray for whatever happened on The Day That Went Dark.

I would honestly love to see a scenario of the two of them sitting down together in a room and just awkwardly yet honestly expressing all of their pent-up emotions about that whole ordeal (angst writers, if you’re reading this...only if you want to ofc ^w^).

Personal Rambling #2: Gushing Edition

So those were my structured notes, but now let me indulge you on my messy bullet points that I made throughout reading his route. A lot of these are pointless to character building and things I just thought were cute and needed attention drawn to sooo….ye ^w^

Like the rest of the Red Army, Kyle was born into a family that carries the mantle of 7 of hearts. All of them doctors.

Cute theme of beds??? (his bday story and them sleeping in the same room)

“When he wasn’t talking, he’s actually quite attractive.” (wow, r00d)

His palm notes are work and other things related (and he doesn’t always remember why he wrote it down bgrkdgn)

Not a sweet tooth (dammit Kyle, that’s your only downfall :c)

Easily embarrassed despite his earnest and straightforward mannerisms

Doesn’t dote on MC and teaches her what he can

His importance on smiling and presenting a calm, friendly image of himself as he treats his patients (“People are like mirrors.” - ch 8)

Head pats. Lots of head pats

Awkward sweet love (kill me it’s too adorable)

Edgar’s silent envy yet sweet support of their romance (this boi istg…)

Super proactive MC (she’s my new fave, seriously I love her)

Lots of touching (head pats, forehead bonks), he doesn’t know what personal space is (and I love it)

His pig is the cutest thing in the entire world, I need 20

Really good with kids…...yes.

“I absolutely despise people who are ready to throw away their lives” (incredibly strong convictions - doesn’t have many, but the ones he does have he is incredibly dedicated to)

Stays longer than the allotted month (FUCK YES)

His brother’s death strengthened his convictions to be able to handle being an army doctor (direct and honest, no bs about sacrificing your life etc etc)

The “People are like mirrors” line is tearing my fucking heart apart (makes sense in chapter 20 avatar challenge)

The angst…..his brother...and Colin….I’m rdfkgndkjfnxclk ;-;

His realisation of love….and his confession….lord, IM DROWNING IN UWUS

Saving Amon despite him murdering many innocent people, a big decision that could have changed the tide for the future, but he stuck with his beliefs

MC’s insistence that Kyle doesn’t like her that way, and Kyle’s inability to realise it’s love (help me it’s so fucking cute I’m dying)

Whether intentional or not, he’s good at diverting the attention away from him when he wants it off him (maybe MC just assumes he’s an idiot?? lmao)

So his glasses are for sentimental reasons (but does he need them???) and his alcohol drinking habits are from his father (not a coping mechanism)

Incredibly kind...but not good at showing it (helping MC distract herself by giving her work(?))

MC’s obsession with Kyle’s eyes and collarbone (same sis, SAME) and Kyle’s obsession with her hair (fsekfbksfnjweksdgn kd,nAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA)

Conclusion

Overall, Kyle’s route is very solid. It may not add much to the overarching lore of Cradle (aside from another victim in The Day That Went Dark), but the route was still adorable, enjoyable and incredibly sweet. I had no moments where I felt bored throughout his route (then again, that’s likely the bias talking) and the balance between cute floof, tear-jerking angst and then hot hot spice (that he FULLY deserves, mind you) came together into a wonderful experience that left my heart full and sad when it all ended.

My final message to you all: Kyle Ash is the sweetest, most adorkable nerd that has ever graced my presence and I hope that even a tiny portion of my love for him rubs off on you, just so you can see how amazing this boi is. Thank you for your time and for listening to my ramblings gesgnsk ^^;;

Bonus: my two favourite screenshots from his route

[toloveawarlord]

The Art of Love and War (Chapter 6)

You can find all my other works here!

Mari Date

1 Month Before the Incident

Day 1

 “Lady Mari.”

Go away!

“Lady Mari!”

Cracking my eyes open, I noted that I was in fact sitting on a horse. I can vaguely remember being woke up and told we were leaving, but at the time, it felt more like a dream. “That’s the third time you’ve said my name, Aido. I’ll have you know that I was having a great dream filled with food and sweets.” Just remembering it made my mouth water and stomach growl.

“Apologies, my lady, but we’ve arrived at Honno-ji,” Aido replied, holding out his hand. He was one of my father’s vassals, and most of his job was keeping an eye on me when we weren’t at the castle. His dusty blonde hair had been brushed out of his face, and his bright green eyes met my blue ones.

Yawning, I stretched my arms over my head. “When did we decide to come to Honno-ji? I thought we were heading back to Azuchi in the morning. And don’t call me lady. I’m younger than you by five years.”

Aido laughed and nodded his head. “Yes, but you’re my lord’s daughter which makes you a lady of the Date clan, whether you like it or not. You fell asleep on your horse on the way here, or you would know why we’d come.”

Accepting his hand, I still almost fell off my horse. My left leg was tingly. “Sounds about right. I don’t really remember getting out of bed, only your annoying nagging. Why are we here?” It looked like nearly everyone was here. Hideyoshi, Mitsuhide, Mitsunari, one of the twins, Natsu, Hikaru, and Minori. We were only lacking the other twin and my best friend, Iri. Too bad she isn’t here.

His amused expression dropped. “There was an assassination attempt on Lord Nobunaga and Lady Nadia.” This troubled him. Even though he’d only been around for four years, he’d grown pretty close to us and his loyalty had stayed strong. Plus, Aido is the only one who stuck around me without complaint. Most didn’t want to deal with me, eagerly willing to change jobs. Aido, though, had requested to stay with me when Father asked him if he wanted a new job.

Attempt. That means that no one died, which is good. “Oh okay,” I answered offhandedly. The temple had billows of smoke rising from the charred wood. Wow, someone had tried really hard to kill the two of them. “My back hurts,” I complained, stretching again.

Aido laughed at me. “You did sleep on a horse.”

I shrugged my shoulders.

“You are the only one I know who could successfully sleep on a horse and make it without falling off,” Nobunaga commented from nearby. He was standing with Mitsunari, looking over a map.

With a grin, I nodded. “Yeah, it’s a handy skill. Glad you and Nadia aren’t dead.”

“Lady Mari!” Aido chastised, turning red from embarrassment.

Nobunaga, on the other hand, found it amusing. “It’s alright, Aido. I’ve grown accustomed to her personality.”

Grown accustomed? That’s funny, because I spent the majority of my childhood at Azuchi, so he practically helped to raise me. Maybe that’s why I felt so comfortable around him. Another yawn came out and I moved away from the men to where all the kids stood in a circle. Natsu still had his hair pulled back into a thin pony tail, and he had a scowl on his face. “What’s going on?” I asked.

“You mean you don’t know?” Mei laughed at me. It took a few minutes of staring to be sure it was her. The twins were identical and were hard to tell apart. Mei seemed to be the more mischievous one, and Mai… was a mystery. She acted like innocent one, but Iri told me a lot of things about her that conflicted with that information.

Shrugging my shoulders, I turned my head to look back at the burned temple. ““I was sleeping so well when one of the vassals woke me up in a hurry. We have to leave, he said, and led me to my horse without any more information. I think I fell back asleep at some point. We’re at Honno-ji, right?” I’d only asked because maybe they knew something that I didn’t. Glancing at Natsu, I sighed. He isn’t even paying attention, which means he doesn’t know much.

“Who would target my sister as well as my father? It’s been bothering me.” With his eyebrows furrowed, his head lifted slightly and moved to the right. Where normally Iri would standing right beside him. The two of them were a conundrum. Complete opposites in most ways, but they worked well together. “Right, sorry, Minori.”

A sudden shout caught my attention. Aido had joined in the group that was still extinguishing the flames of the temple. He’d caught a falling beam before it could crush another of the vassals. Though he had a warm smile on his face, even from over here, I could see him wince in pain. He’s so nice, if a little too nice. It might be from being around Iri, but sometimes I was suspicious of him. He’d come from some obscure town and practically volunteered to watch after me. I shook my head. No, he’s too good to be the enemy.

Minori had broken Natsu’s fragile heart with only a few words. So, the logical thing was to do what Iri would do if she were here. I smacked Natsu on the back. “Don’t look so dejected, lover boy. Iri’s the same as she’s always been. As soon as you get back, she’ll be right there beside you, looking for any opportunity to hit you and call you idiot.” A few of the vassal’s mouths dropped open. Yes, hitting an Oda was an offense none wanted to bear, but Nobunaga never cared about Natsu. Probably because his future wife does it almost every day.

Hikaru was called away, leaving the four of us. The excitement of hearing about an assassination attempt had worn off, especially since we had little information. My shoulders slumped. All I want to do right now is to crawl into a warm bed and pass out for a few more hours. Nobunaga announced that we were leaving with Nadia on his horse. Moving like I was half dead, my eyes slid closed a few times. Sleep sounds so good right about now.

“Mari, you can ride with me,” Natsu had returned from talking to Hikaru briefly. Without so much as waiting for me to answer, he’d taken my hand and pulled me behind him to his horse. He mounted and held out his hand. “Come on, you can sleep better if you don’t have to steer.”

That sounds amazing. Wrapping my arms around his waist, I laid my head against his back. “Hey, Natsu?” I said through a yawn. Something has been bothering me.

“Hmm?” He dug his heel into the side of the horse and giving a small kick.

My eyes slid closed, exhausted from not having enough sleep. “Do you really think someone was trying to kill Nadia? I mean, she isn’t a fighter. It would be relatively easy.” Speaking that way about an Oda was pretty much taboo but I knew Natsu didn’t see it as offensive. The four of us, Iri, Hikaru, Natsu, and myself were very close. We took care of each other.

“That is the question isn’t it? I’ve been wondering that same thing. When we’ve arrived back at Azuchi, I’ve instructed Hikaru to meet us. I’d like to discuss everything together, with Iri as well.” He fell quiet, back into an intense thought.

That was fine with me, as any more conversation would have been cut off by me being unconscious. When we did arrive in Azuchi, I felt much more awake. Getting little sleep was something I’d grown accustomed to, even though I did love sleep. Iri and Ieyasu were waiting at the gate for us. Hoping off the horse before Natsu had fully stopped, I walked over to Iri, standing on my tiptoes to speak into her ear. “He’s been depressed having to be away from you.”

Iri rolled her eyes and pushed me away. “Why should I care?” she asked.

I’d expected to see those puppy dog eyes come out, but Natsu still held a grim expression. “We’ll meet when Hikaru returns,” he said, whisking past us to return to the castle.

This time it was Iri who looked surprised. Her eyes stayed on him until he disappeared. It was clear to see that she was already trying to work out what was going on. “Where is Hikaru?” she asked. She wanted to ask me about Natsu’s behavior but there were too many people around.

Nobunaga had Nadia in his arms. “Ieyasu, Nadia needs some medical attention. Iri, wait here for Hideyoshi and Masamune. Mai or Nori might need medical attention as well.” The three of them left us to go into the castle, with Minori following close behind. Her and Nadia spent most of their time together.

Iri gave a short nod, and as soon as they were out of sight, she asked, “Who’s Nori?”

I laughed and gave her a rundown of what had happened. Not much had been said about the Nori woman, but apparently, she’d saved Nobunaga’s life. And for whatever reason, she’d run off into the woods after doing so. “Also, Mai is missing. Hikaru was tasked with finding her.”

Slowly, all the vassals dispersed. Some went to tend to the horses, others went home to rest. Iri and I were left alone at the gate, so I took that opportunity to mention the same thing to her that I did to Natsu. That puzzled her as well, but behind that, I could see that she knew something. Something that Natsu didn’t know. Those two were full of secrets. Hopefully when Hikaru returns, it can all be laid out for us all to think about. Because, Natsu and Iri trusted us, right?

[quincette]

I read on the tag somewhere that you're not into baby headcanon?It's cool tho I am sad because that means you'd never answer my ask which I sent ages ago... But how about this, let's try my luck. Reactions: the lords (and any side fellas/ninjas you want) on MC's pregnancy, buuuutttt plot twist: they're not the father!

Oohhhh helloooooo!

Lol, yes, you read right (I’m sorry!) I’m not particularly into babies and kids headcanon, not that I hate them but it’s just I have no plan on becoming anybody’s parent and there are many, many great writers in this fandom who do these headcanon justice and more (FLUFFY FLUFFY GOODNESS) so yeah, I’m not the best person (AT ALL) to send these asks to.

That being said. OH, MY GOD

“The lords (and any side fellas/ninjas you want) on MC’s pregnancy, buuuutttt plot twist: they’re not the father!”

WHY. Okay, when I first read this I thought this ask was an ATOMIC ANGST BOMB, but hey, I read that again and hmmm,  it could be a happy HC actually lol. I was assuming when this happened MC is in a relationship with that particular lord and HGSAHVDHMBJHBJKJHVGHHH

NTR (netorare = cuckold) trope could be perversely exciting but let’s not go there (I don’t have the mental capacity - it’s beyond me) and make these characters happy aite?

Headcanon after the break.

Nobunaga: That utter bore managed to get you pregnant? Well, well, well, he is… strangely proud, like, he could use little Mitsuhides to take care of his clan and little you to make more sweets, rite? Expect him to announce this to the whole clan out of the blue and expect him to declare himself the unborn babe’s godfather. Also, you are forbidden to do any chores but making desserts, is that clear?

Mitsuhide: He’s not surprised, he’s like, a million steps ahead of you. Your pregnancy term? As comfy and as enjoyable as it can be – he’s anticipated everything, from an army of helpers and all the logistics, down to the more shady stuff like preparing a safehouse and a cover story and escape route for you and the babe should something happen to the clan.

Yukimura: “Y-y-y-you’re pregnant? Saizo, you MUST marry her, like, NOW! SAIZO, you hear? Also, y-y-you, your body’s not just your own now! Stop that! I forbid you to work, you must rest!” – Well, he’ll be super flustered and fussy and all endearing if a bit over the top about it. Your child will have a super doting uncle.

Hotaru: You read and reread the words he wrote on a piece of paper. “Congratulations,” it says. “How do you make a baby with Oniichan? Can I have one with you too?” You’re not sure showing it to Saizo will get baby firefly killed, or Yuki killed. But Saizo simply Sigh™ when he read that and proceed to lock Hotaru together with Yukkin in a secret place where he stores every Love Guides he ever wrote. Problem solved.

Fuuma: “Saizo-san, Saizo-san, Saizo-san’s baby??? MIRACLE IT’S A MIRACLE, AH AH AH! WILL HE NOTICE ME IF I KIDNAP YOU I WONDER?!” Saizo would not take the chance and almost killed Kotaro though- which only convinced him that this unborn baby has made Saizo MORE MAGNIFICENT. He’ll leave strange gifts for you like lizard’s brain or something.

Saizo: Oh, how his little lord has grown. He’s both surprised but not really – he heard you two you know, going at it till dawn – perhaps even witnessed it once in a while, for a security reason, because Nobuyuki made him do it, because you know, enemy can attack anytime and Yukkin’s not exactly a multitasker when he’s um, busy, with you. He’ll be indifferent to it but that babe? You will carry it safely to term because he’ll make sure you’re safe. He’ll be also super indifferent when the babe is born but jokes on him because your child LOVES his uncle Saizo best.

Shingen: “How about that, so our late night drinking sessions did good for our little Yukimura afterall! Now, Yukimura – I trust you know how to please your pregnant wife?” Cue the advance smutty class from Shingen, and also regular session of How to Dad and How to Not Dad class.

Nobuyuki:  “Congratulations! Now, you two must wed now, you and Yukkin and make the babe legitimate Sanada child, won’t you?” *smile smile smile*. Then you found out that he has absolutely everything prepared, down to the fabric of your wedding kimono and the wedding banquet menu, which for some reason, couldn’t be more perfect if you had chosen them yourself. It’s almost like, he’s planned this.

Masamune: He is busy consoling Kojuro who is torn between feeling ecstatic and guilty because he is going to have children before Masamune. He is tremendously happy because he’s worried that Kojuro is working too hard for his own good. He is extremely thankful that you exist to carry the Katakura line for the benefit of the Date clan.

Kojuro: THE FEELS, OH THE FEELS, HOW HIS LITTLE BONTENMARU HAS GROWN. No, he’s not crying, wipe that grin off your face, Shigezane! The sky is blue, the sakura’s blooming, his skin has regained 10 years of youth and all’s fine with the world! He’ll take a moment to recover from the news before proceed to plan everything to ensure the safety and wellbeing of you and the babe.  

Shigezane, part I: “Good for you, Oldman! I was worried you’d grow too old! Now, Doll, quick! Find a name or else he’s going to name them Bontenmaru.” Then he would smile and be happy for you both even as he feels a strange melancholy in hearing this good news.

Shigezane, part II: “Kojuro, Kojuro, get ahold of yourself, Oldman! Call the fishmonger! We need carps! GIANT CARPS! COME ON! OUR MASAMUNE HAS MADE A BABY!” Then he would smile and be happy for you both even as he feels a strange melancholy in hearing this good news.

Hideyoshi: “Whoah…” is all he can say. He did on occasions push you together subtly and not so subtly in Mitsunari’s direction, but to actually hearing that not only you two are together but that you have made a baby together is a miracle! He’ll be the best enabler uncle ever! 

Mitsunari: “V-vile succubus! Hideyoshi why!” “Now that you are to be a mother –“ expect him to take a role of an overbearing mother in law. His tongue is sharper than ever but he is trying his best to be useful to you ease your pregnancy. Consider the education of your child settled.

Inuchiyo: You know what, in this universe, that is his baby, without any doubt, because #PuppyDeservesTheGirl2K17. And he is over the moon, and hella motivated to do SO WELL, SO WELL in being the head of the Maeda clan that it turns even the skeptical Toshihisa so proud he can die peacefully. He’ll name the baby boy after your father.

Ieyasu: He was strangely nicer to you lately and later you find out that he actually knew you were pregnant before you yourself do – he can read the sign. He was extra horrible to everyone else though, especially Toramatsu, who is the father of the baby. (Tadatsugu made a show of how happy he was for you both and he has approximately 20 strands of hair left on his head now.) Ieyasu makes all sorts of supplements for you – they taste revolting but you can’t deny that they work, you suspect he could have added honey to them to make them taste better but he just, chose not to, for some cruel reason.

Kenshin: “Ah! Ah! This is SUCH a good news, now, I thought you were a little plump but you look paler and Kanetsugu is way easier to escape from these days so yes, yes that makes sense! Oh, you’re pregnant, what a wonderful news! Ai, ai, you’re going to have a sibling – we must get you two matching clothes, oh what, what about a wedding? A SPRING WEDDING with all the FLOWER and, BOYS, BOYS, BOYS, we must get stuff for the wedding and – “

Hope that wasn’t too horrible. Hahahahah. Find my other writings on my masterpost