#mitsuhide fanfic

[otomefoxystar]

Finding the Light - Chapter 10

Fandom: Ikemen Sengoku

Pairing: Mitsuhide X OC ( Evelyn)

Genre: Fluff

TW : None in this chapter

The sun filtered in, and Mitsuhide blinked, opening his eyes to a fresh new day. His head was pounding, and he lifted his hand to rub his head. When he saw Evelyn next to him in bed, with her bare back exposed. He had forgotten what they had done, and seeing her bare skin reminded him. Had he really done it for her? Or did he make an excuse? He was starting to second-guess himself. She turned in her sleep, and Mitsuhide noticed the bite mark on her neck. He blushed, feeling ashamed for losing himself in her. He moved her hair to the side and started tracing her collarbones.

Evelyn opened her eyes slightly, seeing Mitsuhide next to her. He smiled, “Good morning, little mouse.” When her vision adjusted, she saw his bare chest and realized she was naked.  Everything suddenly came back to her. “Morning,” She said, feeling embarrassed.  “How are you feeling?” Mitsuhide asked, “Fine,” he cocked an eyebrow looking at her in surprise. “Really? You drank a lot, “she laughed,  “Yeah, I’m fine.”  She looked over at him. “You don’t look like you feel well. Does my poor, big, bad warlord have a hangover?” She giggled. It was music to his ears, even at his expense.   He pushed her away. “Leave me alone.”  She laughed again. Then looked at her solemnly, and the air in the room shifted. “Aside from the alcohol, how are you? I didn’t hurt you?”  She blushed at the thought of their actions the night before but shook her head and sat up, holding the blanket over her chest.

She ran her fingers through his soft hair. “No, you were very gentle. Thank you, Mitsuhide, for always caring for me.”  His eyes met hers, and he took her hand, kissing the top. “Of course, little mouse. I will always be here when you need me.” She smiled awkwardly. Evelyn got up, taking the throw blanket from the bed, leaving Mitsuhide covered with just the bedspread. He snickered at her modesty. She looked for the house robe she had in his room. When she found it, she slipped it on and walked towards the door. “where are you going?” She smiled. “Stay here, I’ll be right back.” She seemed to be in a good mood as she scurried off. 

About twenty minutes later, she brought some tea and motioned for him to sit up. “Drink this. Ieyasu showed me, It helps with hangovers.” He sat up, blowing on the tea before taking a sip. “You and Ieyasu seem close. You should pursue him.” She laughed, “I don’t think so. He’s just a close friend. I told you I’m not interested in love or relationships.” He sighed. “You will be when you’re ready.” She looked down. “Not likely.”  he set the tea down. And she pushed him down. “Go back to sleep, mister.”  He gave her a stern look.

“I have work to do, and we need to eat.” She gave him an irritated look. “Mitsuhide work can wait until you’re feeling better. “He glared at her. “Ev-“She put her finger over his lips to silence him. “Let me take care of you for once. You’ve taken care of me all this time.” He laughed, “If this is how you’re going to be after sex, maybe we’ll do it every night.” She hit him on the shoulder. “That was a one time thing, that’s not happening again.” He sighed, “I appreciate you trying to be helpful, but I’m taking care of you, which entails getting you to eat.” She bounced up. “I’ll get breakfast; we’ll eat it here.” 

 A little while later, she entered the room and set down the food at the table they were drinking at last night. She began clearing the mess from the table so they could eat.  He started getting up, and she noticed his shoulders and the nail-shaped scabs. He looked at her face. “What is it?” She blushed and he was confused, “You’re shoulders.” He went over to the mirror, still naked. She watched his muscles flex as he walked. He saw the scabs. She turned red and adverted her eyes, so she wasn’t oogling him. “Don’t feel bad; there’s a bite mark on your neck.”  She dashed over to the mirror and moved her hair. “Mitsuhide! Why, in such an obvious place, at least you can cover yours up, and even if you couldn’t, you’re a man, no one would say anything.” 

He looked over at her. “It’s not that bad. Your hair covers it up.” He said as he moved her hair over her shoulders. He reached for his robe, slipping it on. “I’m glad you’re feeling better today. It’s nice to see you in a good mood.”  He walked over to where she had set the food down. She followed him sitting at the little round table. “Thank you for being patient and gentle with me last night.” Mitsuhide cupped her cheek. “you’re welcome.” She looked into his eyes. “You don’t get it. I think I would have lived my life without ever having sex again if it weren’t for last night.” His thumb rubbed across her cheek. 

“I care about you, little mouse, and want to help you.” He looked at the food and felt a little frustrated. He had an assortment of foods, all nutritious and good for the body, and she had soup. “Evelyn.” She knew exactly what that tone of voice was and why he was saying her name like that. “I was able to eat soup yesterday; I thought it was a good place to start.” He sighed, “I suppose you’re right.”  While Mitsuhide ate he watched Evelyn which had become something of a habit. “If you’re going to only eat soup, we need to add more nutrients to it. Do you know how scared I was of breaking you last night?” She took a deep breath, “Okay,” He finished chewing, “Are you feeling alright? All you’re going to say is ‘okay’ you aren’t going to argue?”  She licked her lips. “I’m aware that I need to eat more. I know I’m too thin. I want to talk with my friends without seeing the worry on their faces. I’m going to try harder.” He put his hand on top of hers. “That’s good to hear.” 

She guided him back to bed as soon as they were done eating. “Go back to bed to get rid of that hangover. Then you can work.” She closed the drapes so that just a tiny amount of light filtered in so she could work on her sewing. Mitsuhide fell into a deep sleep as she sewed quietly. 

 A couple of hours later, Mitsuhide opened his eyes to see her cutting and measuring with a needle in her mouth. An involuntary smile crossed his lips as he watched her do her passion. How cute she looked with her hair done up in a clip. He saw the bite mark he had caused, and his heart felt light.

She looked over to Mitsuhide, catching him staring at her. “Mitsuhide, how long have you been awake?” 

“I just now woke up.” She put her things down. “Do you feel better?” He hummed, “Mmm..yes.” 

“I’m sorry I got you so drunk.”  She said, feeling guilty. He laughed, “I think you put some extra alcohol in there; I’m not known to be a lightweight.” She stood up to open the drapes, “I’m just glad you’re feeling better.”  He stood up. “I have work to do. Why don’t you go outside? This is the first time you’ve been up before midday.” She looked outside, “I probably could use a break, but I want a bath first” the edge of Mitsuhide’s lip turned up in a small smile. “Well, take a nice long bath, then go on a walk.”

As she entered the water in the bathing room she felt the tension in her body release in the hot water. She was still sore from last night, but she was sure that was normal after everything she went through. Images of her and Mitsuhide making love floated through her head. She dunked her head in the water to try to stop thinking about it. It was a one time occurrence. She didn’t want that kind of relationship with Mitsuhide. She had come to rely on him and didn’t want this to ruin everything. 

After her bath, she walked around a secluded part of the garden, sitting on a large decorative rock. She looked into the distance. As she felt the sun beating on her skin. Chimaki nuzzled her nose against Evelyn’s leg, and she looked down. “Chimaki, what have you been up to? It seems like ages since I’ve seen you.” She sighed as she picked up the white fox, “I suppose that’s my fault. I’m sorry I haven’t come to visit. I’ve been in my head too much. Chimaki licked Evelyn’s cheek, and she giggled. She got up and put Chimaki down. “I’m going to the field out there; you can come if you want.” Chimaki trotted next to Evelyn’s feet.

 Evelyn sat down against a large tree overlooking the expanse of the field with wildflowers spouted all around. Chimaki curled up in her lap, and Evelyn stroked her soft fur. She formed a rare smile then looked into the distance pensively. “I sometimes wonder if I should go home; what do you think, Chimaki? Should I stay here or leave? She looked down at the slumbering fox. “Yeah I don’t know either, all I know is it’s time to start healing and to move forward.” 

Mitsuhide had gotten so focused on his work that he didn’t realize how dark it had gotten. He hadn’t seen Evelyn for a while. He took a lantern with him as he went to look for her. Finally, he found her sitting against the tree with Chimaki. He sat next to her, setting the lantern down. “What are you doing?”  She didn’t look at him but simply stared into the distance and spoke softly. “The sky never looks like this where I’m from. It’s beautiful.”  He nodded, “It is, come it’s getting cold.” She blinked, taking herself out of her daze. She picked up Kimichi bringing her with her as they walked quietly to the manor.

Next Chapter

[ikeromantic]

Ikesen Boys React to a Tattooed MC pt 4

Thank you again to @otomedad for this fantastic idea ^_^ This one has Mitsuhide, Keiji, and Ieyasu! Approx. 2600 words of tattoo and MC appreciation!

Mitsuhide

Mitsuhide’s smile was infuriating. You wipe the sweat from your forehead and stretch your aching muscles. After five hours of practice, you were tired, your hair was a tangled mess, and your clothes looked even worse. And Akechi was just standing there, grinning, not a single hair out of place.  

“That was much better, little mouse. Almost passable.” His grin widens. “In another week or two, you might be able to fend off, say, a small rabbit? Perhaps a squirrel?”

You throw a sweat-damp rag at him, which he dodges easily. 

Mitsuhide’s eyebrows arch. “What’s this? Another match? I could never deny my little one.” 

“W-wai-ahhhh!” You hold up a hand to stop him, only for him to grab your hand and send you up and over his shoulder. He holds you there, your head flopping against his upper back, legs kicking uselessly in the air.

“Hmm. I think you’ve lost this round. You don’t seem to be able to get down.”

You seriously consider biting him, but there’s no easy spot to clamp down on. Besides, he’d probably just - 

“If you bite me, I will return the favor.” You hear the laughter in his voice, and feel his breath on your leg.

“Put me down!” 

Mitsuhide does laugh then, a low, wicked chuckle that sends feelings skittering through your frayed nerve endings. “I don’t think I want to, though. You’ll have to convince me.”

You struggle some more, trying to grab hold of him so you can leverage your grip to wriggle out of his. It’s impossible not to be aware of the flex of his muscle, covered by thin linen. The way he holds you, gentle, but implacable. Your pulse is racing and your face is red from more than exertion. I’m just embarrassed, you think, knowing that’s not quite true. 

With some effort, you manage to grasp his clothes firmly enough to pull yourself down, but you feel the loose folds of your hakama slide away from your hips as you do. You freeze, held by the terrible image of Mitsuhide carrying a pantless you, your rear in the air, legs kicking. 

“It seems my little mouse has only further ensnared herself.”   

The low, smooth tone of his voice sends a little shiver over the newly bare skin of your hip, and you fancy that you can feel his hair tickling that sensitive spot. “You - I - this - this is your fault!” It’s hard to think, and you wonder if he’s distracting you on purpose. Teasing, as always.

Mitsuhide chuckles, the laugh more something you can feel than hear. “But however will you escape? Perhaps you could persuade -” He pauses, holding very still.

“Ummm. Pretty please? Put me down?” You stop squirming, hopeful this means he’s done with his current game.

Instead, he shifts his grip on you, and you feel a cool, calloused finger drag against your hip. 

The unexpected touch, featherlight, sends a jolt of heat through you, and you bite back a pleased sigh. There is no way you’re letting Akechi get to you. Nope. No. You refuse to give him the satisfaction of knowing his taunting touch got to you this time. “Mitsuhide -”

“You have been marked. What is this, my naughty little mouse?” 

For a moment, you have no idea what he means and then you realize. He must have glimpsed your tattoo. Your face, already hot, grows hotter still. This was something you hoped to keep to yourself. Especially given . . .

You feel his fingers catch the waist of your hakama and pull it a little further down. “Wait! Stop!”

Mitsuhide pauses, though now you can feel the cool air and his warm breath teasing your low hip. “This is no irezumi kei.” His voice has changed, the teasing replaced by strained curiosity.

“I told you I’m from the future. People have all kinds of tattoos there.” You hope he hasn’t realized what the design is. Please, please, you think, if there is any goodness in the world, he won’t see enough to -

“Little one. This is a -” His voice is so low you don’t catch the end of his sentence. 

You let out a breath, realizing there’s no escaping it now. “Look. I got that a long time ago. It was supposed to be the first part of a full leg sleeve.”

He sets you down gently, his hands lingering at your sides. His eyes are molten gold, and you find it hard to look away. “May I see it?”

 It is tempting to tell him no. To return some of the frustration you feel with his obtuse answers, his hot and cold behavior. But you find that you want to show him. Afterall, who else would appreciate this particular design more? You carefully tug your hakama down to display your hip and upper thigh. There, etched in bright colors is a nine-tail fox. The kitsune leaps from cloud a cloud toward a flower that looks like a cloud - or perhaps it’s a cloud that looks like a flower - and below that, the first hint of a river that was meant to tie the leg sleeve together. 

Mitsuhide’s smile widens and he kneels to get a closer look. 

“Go ahead,” you sigh. “Say what you’re going to say.”

His breath is warm against your skin as he leans close, his hand not quite touching. He stares into the soulful eyes of the inked kitsune, one fox to another, as if it might hold answers for him. When he looks up at you, your heart stutters in your chest. “You somehow manage to surprise me still, little one.” 

You aren’t sure what to say, and honestly, you feel as if you can barely breathe much less speak. It’s not just Mitsuhide’s closeness, or even your vulnerability in this position. It is the expression that haunts his eyes, a flicker of something hopeful, something raw beneath his usual smiling mask. 

“Why did you choose this? This . . . unworthy trickster?” His voice is almost inaudible, as if he too is having trouble breathing.

“Unworthy?” Your eyes go wide. “Kitsune are wise. Tricksters, yeah, but that just means they didn’t lose their sense of humor. They are noble and cunning and they pursue knowledge, even when it’s forbidden, and - and I wanted to be all those things too.” You fall silent, wondering why his comment upset you so much.

Mitsuhide stares at you, his brows arched high, his lips parted. Then he laughs, a paper thin, breathy sound that rises to a low chuckle. “Truly you are something . . . else.” He stands gracefully, his gaze still on your face.

“You too,” you mutter and turn away, busying your hands with fixing your clothes. It isn’t fair how he always tangles your feelings, you think. Looking at you like that, his voice, his eyes, his touch.

“Your tattoo is lovely. As lovely as you are.” He brushes a hand down your arm, a tender gesture. 

You freeze, butterflies filling your chest. His compliment means so much to you, but you don’t know what to say in return. Your throat feels parched and tight. After a shaky breath, you look up, determined to ask him why he teases you so, but he is already moving away, his back to you, the moment gone.  

Keiji

“Sometimes I don’t know why I bother,” you murmur to yourself. The subject and cause of your annoyance crouches a few steps away, all but ignoring you, his gaze turned toward the street just beyond the mouth of this narrow alley. You think you might prefer his silence to his commentary. 

He turns his head slightly to regard you, and you have the uncanny sense that he heard your whispered complaint. Chagrined, you offer him an apologetic smile, which earns you an eyeroll and a smirk. 

You do your best to ignore his reaction, but you can’t help the flush of embarrassment in your cheeks, or the way his regard makes your pulse pound.

A few short minutes later, he gestures you forward as he steps out into the clear street ahead. You follow, a nervous energy in your steps. In fact, you are so nervous that your feet tangle mid-step. 

Keiji catches you before you hit the ground, his warm arms pulling you up in an unexpected embrace. “Careful,” he admonishes you sharply, but you see the genuine concern in his gaze.

“Thanks.” You pull away, self conscious and even more embarrassed now. At this rate, Keiji will never ask you along to anymore of his clandestine missions. You try not to meet his gaze again as you straighten your clothes.

He reaches out, grabbing your hand before you manage to tug your sleeve back into place. “Is that - are you - princess . . .” The sharpness in his tone melts into surprise as he pulls your sleeve back up. 

“Ehehe, umm . . . it’s a tattoo?” The inked lines of three noh masks stare back at the two of you. “I did costuming for theater and I, I liked these designs.” You end on a defiant note, practically daring Keiji to say something snarky.

Surprisingly, he says nothing, just strokes your marked skin with the rough pad of his thumb. The touch sends a pleasant shiver through you, which you hope he doesn’t notice. 

“So . . . can I have my arm back,” you venture after a few awkward moments. 

Keiji nods, but doesn’t let go of you. “Do you know what these mean?” His voice sounds distant, soft and surprisingly tender. 

You nod. “I . . . yes.” Your gaze follows his thumb to the three faces. I got Zō because I feel like she represents the best in women. Divinity and beauty. Wisdom. And then, Namanari because hell hath no fury, right? Holding onto anger makes me a demon. So she’s kind of a warning for me to let it go, but also, like, a reminder that it’s ok to be angry too.”

“And Rōjo?” He looks up, his warm amber eyes meeting yours. 

“To remind me that getting older is ok too.” You shrug uncomfortably, feeling oddly exposed by the confession. 

Keiji studies you, tension in his shoulders and jaw. “It’s nice. Your tattoo.”

Your eyes widen a little at the compliment. “You know you don’t have to fake things around me,” you tell him, half hoping he means it and half sure he doesn’t.

“I said I like it, ok? It’s pretty.” He frowns, a little crease forming between his eyebrows.

For some reason, the all too familiar expression of disapproval combined with the kind words sends little butterflies spinning through your tummy, and makes your heart do a funny little flip in your chest. He has no right to look so cute, you think. Or to say such nice things while his thumb makes little circles on the inner side of your arm. “Th-thanks.”

One eyebrow lifts slightly along with the corners of his lips. “You’re blushing.”

You jerk your arm away, trying to get ahold of your galloping heart. “I am not!” 

He laughs, a sound free of nega-Keiji’s bitterness, one full of a sudden, intoxicating joy. 

This does nothing to help you rein in your reaction, but you find yourself joining in the laughter with him. “Come on, let’s just go meet your contacts,” you say through your giggles. 

“Yeah. That’s right.” He smiles and you feel another flush of heat in your cheeks. One that only grows as he reaches for your hand.

Ieyasu

“Hold still.” Ieyasu’s crisp tone brooks no disobedience. 

You stop squirming and take a deep breath. “Sorry,” you mumble. “It just hurts.”

A faint smile curls the edges of his mouth. “Yes, well, tumbling down a gravel path usually does. You should be more careful. At this rate, I’ll have to accompany you everywhere just to ensure you don’t hurt yourself.”

You feel a goofy happiness at the gentle expression on his face as he says it, though his tone stays sharp. “I’m not that clumsy,” you argue. “I don’t need babysitting.” 

“The evidence leaves that very much in doubt.” Ieyasu tugs your kimono aside, revealing your hip and thigh. There is an angry red patch of skin where the gravel scraped you badly, and his eyes flick over the wound with concern. Then his gaze travels up and you notice his brows rise. 

“What? What is it?” You start to move again and stop as he rests a hand on you. 

Ieyasu frowns, his fingertip tapping just above your injury. “You have a mark. Like a painting but -” He drags his finger over the ink of your tattoo. 

“Oh, that.” You laugh self-consciously. You hadn’t been thinking about the tattoo at all - especially not after your spectacularly embarrassing accident that morning. Tripping over a rock and sliding halfway down a gravel and sand path while out walking with Hideyoshi. And to make matters worse, he’d insisted on carrying you to see Ieyasu for treatment. Thankfully, he hadn’t stayed. You could easily imagine his disapproving expression. Probably more so than the face Ieyasu was making now. 

“Yes. That.” He leaned closer to your leg, studying the colorful image there. “It looks like an octopus. Holding a flower?” Ieyasu’s voice has lost some it’s usual coldness, thawing to an unexpected warmth with curiosity.

You feel another little flutter in your chest and tell yourself to calm down. “It’s supposed to be Akkorokamui holding an anemone. I got it after my parents passed away.” The memory of your intense grief is enough to make you pause. It’s been so many years since you lost them, but it still hurts. A dull, distant ache you don’t notice most of the time. Only on those lonely, long nights when there is nothing to distract you. 

Ieyasu looks up, concern in his wide green eyes. “You don’t need to tell me if it’s too much.”

“No, it’s ok. I can talk about it. That was several years ago and I - I’m alright now.” You give him what you hope is a reassuring smile. “I read that the octopus was a symbol for adaptability. And that Akkorokamui meant healing and wisdom. So . . . I got it as a tattoo, so I would never forget I can handle everything life throws my way. That I will always heal, in time.”

His warm palm strokes your thigh, a gentle touch meant to be calming. The effect on you is less than, sending your pulse skyrocketing. “I see.” He continues the tender caress, though his brows furrow. “But why is it holding a flower?”

“Fragility and strength. Because I’m fragile but I want to be strong.” You take a breath, trying to calm your heart and settle the ache in your soul. Surprisingly, your grief already feels less, as if Ieyasu’s closeness has chased it away.

He nods, looking back down with his thoughtful expression. “I think it’s nice.” 

You can’t miss the flush of red in his cheeks, or his sudden shyness as he pulls his hand away. 

“Too bad such a pretty picture can’t stop you from being a danger to yourself. But I don’t think this will leave a scar on your lov- er, your skin.” Ieyasu’s coldness returns in full force, his eyes as hard as jade.

“Do you really think it’s pretty? I like it but -”

“Of course it is,” he snaps back, already pulling out a tincture to clean your wound.

You bite your lip at the sting, eyes watering a little. 

Ieyasu sighs, his shoulders losing some of their tension. “Sorry. I should have warned you. This will hurt a little.”

“It’s fine. I’m just glad you like me - ah - my tattoo.” 

His eyes widen at your slip in speech, his mouth open. The red in his cheeks spreads to his ears, and something in his gaze wavers. “Well. Even I can admit when someone-thing- is pretty. I’m not blind.”

You feel a giggle rising up and clamp down. Laughing now would not be a good thing. “Thanks.”

“Sure,” he mutters, turning away. You can still see the red tips of his ears.

[aquagirl1978]

And may I also request touches #2 with Mitsuhide? I love doting on that man so much!!

Thank you for this request - sorry it took me so long to get to 🥺

Blue Christmas - Mitsuhide Akechi x Reader (ikemen Sengoku)

A/N: Day 4 of my Twelve Days of Christmas. Also part of my New Year, New Celebration follower celebration.

Pairing: Mitsuhide Akechi x Reader

Prompt: running fingers through hair

Word Count: 562

Tags: fluff

It was a cold and blustery day in December as you strolled through the streets of Azuchi. Your hands were filled with bags brimming with gifts for all your friends, including an extra special one for Mitsuhide -- a small porcelain mouse. 

Christmas was one of your favorite holidays – the lights and the trees and the family dinner of fried chicken were just some of the things that made this holiday so special to you. You had thought this year would be bittersweet, as it was your first away from home, but it had been anything but so far. Christmas might not have come to Japan yet, but there was nothing stopping you from bringing the spirit of the holidays here.

 You had planned to sneak out that afternoon under the ruse of needing to go to the markets in search of new fabric – it was the perfect excuse to go shopping alone to get everyone’s gifts. 

And then you ran into Mitsuhide.

“Where’s this little mouse running off to this early?”

Close. So close to freedom. 

After you informed him that you were going to the market to pick up some new fabrics, you were shocked when he asked if he could join you. Of course you said yes – who would say no to their boyfriend – but now you were in the unenviable position of trying to evade the kitsune somewhere in the market as you purchased the presents.

As it turned out, Mitsuhide was meeting someone in the markets, so it was easy for you to shop in secret. After spending an inordinate amount of time perusing various shops to find the perfect gifts – down to Nobunaga’s favorite konpeito, sorry Hideyoshi – it was finally time to return home to the castle. 

One moment you were hurrying through the streets of the markets in Azuchi, and the next, you were lying flat on the ground. Cheeks warm with embarrassment, you sighed, your bags lying scattered on the ground around you. Your only saving grace was that no one you knew witnessed your fall.

Or so you thought.

Your stomach twisted in knots as you looked up into the crowd and spotted a familiar head of silver-white hair, suppressing a groan as he approached.

“Little mouse,” he said, offering you his hand in assistance. You slipped your hand in his; he easily pulled you up to a standing position. His eyes flickered over your figure, assessing any injuries. He reached out a hand, tucking a stray lock of hair behind your ear. His hand lingered, his fingers grazing your still heated cheeks, his touch comforting. 

“You really do need to watch yourself,” he chided, his eyes fixed on a patch of ice on the ground. “It certainly would have been a blue Christmas if you had hurt yourself.” 

You turned to him, your eyes wide with awe. How did he know about Christmas? You hadn’t said a word about it as you were waiting until the 25th to surprise everyone. So who told him?

He gazed at you knowingly, his golden eyes twinkling like familiar Christmas lights. He huffed a small laugh, and as if he was reading your mind, he pulled you close to him in a warm embrace, his fingers running through your hair as he held your face close to his heart.

“Lucky for you, I was here to help.”

Tagging: @alixennial @redheadkittys @lordsisterxotome @kissmetwicekissmedeadly @chaosangel767 @ikehoe @kpop-and-otome @kisara-16 @lucyw260 @scorchieart @yarnnerdally @crypticbibliophile @tele86 @nightfoxqueen @judejazza @xbalayage @xenokiryu

[the12thnightproject]

Chapter 26 - Time Warped (Again). While Okatsu deals with the emotional fallout of recent events, Mozumi hosts a badly timed banquet, and Mitsunari consults another book.

Mitsunari x OC; Nobunaga x Mai

Previous Chapter

Logline - In order to protect a political alliance, Katusko and Mitsunari must pretend an engagement. But this “all business” arrangement is threatened by a coup against Nobunaga… and by feelings.

From the Military Notes of Ishida Mitsunari…

It is over. We succeeded in preventing Iekane’s forces from killing Nobunaga. Mitsuhide patted my shoulder and told me I had performed beyond his expectations. I’ve received word that Nobunaga plans to reward me for my service.

I should feel happy… We have won… and Okatsu kissed me. Perhaps as one might kiss a brother, however, her lips touched mine, which is the definition of a kiss.

But Okatsu still plans to leave.

No, that is a mischaracterization of the situation – Okatsu never planned to stay. This is something I knew. This is something I wanted. I no longer want this, but she will be with her family, she will return to a future that is peaceful and safer than here. I will be happy for her.

But…

…wait…

… Where is every--?

When Aki aimed his gun at the minion, I shut my eyes, waiting for images of my past to flash before me, as is foretold in popular fiction.

That didn’t happen.

Either I wasn’t going to die… or popular fiction was wrong. I had a bad feeling it was going to be the latter unless I took steps to avoid that fate. I opened my eyes again, knowing that as soon as Aki killed the minion, I would have to use that moment of distraction to act –

THWUMP!

With more power than grace, Mitsunari hauled himself over the edge of the tower and knocked the minion off his feet.  As a distraction, it worked wonderfully. I grabbed the war fan out of my kimono, jammed it into Iekane’s stomach, then flipped him over my body.

He landed right where Aki was waiting for him.

While Mitsunari was easily dispatching the minion, I grabbed Hikosane and yanked him out of the path of any stray bullet, sword, or –

THUNK.

Unconscious minions.

The second the minion hit the floor, Mitsunari had Hikosane and I in his arms, as far away from the Iekane and Aki’s fight as possible. At the moment, there wasn’t much else we could do except let Aki have his chance at Iekane. The two of them were evenly matched. Aki discarded the musket for his sword, and they battled across the perimeter of the tower, grimly trading hits, swords clanging against each other. Then Iekane backed up a step and pulled out a small rectangular object … was that a cell phone?

“No, you can’t it’s too-” Aki’s words were lost as he leaped at Iekane -

For a moment, out of the corner of my eye, I saw an odd aura – almost like the ones I used to get before a migraine headache. It felt like reality was rippling around me, almost as if the horizon was a curtain that was about to lift. I’ve… seen this before…

Then Aki’s forward motion took both of them over the railing of the tower.

Holy fu-

Mitsunari, Hikosane, and I rushed to the railing, and I was hoping against fate that I would find Aki clinging to the edge of the tower, and not in a broken heap on the ground below. Of course, he’d be clinging to the edge. This was Aki. Slippery. Wily. Acrobatic…

He was not clinging to the tower.

Nor was he – or Iekane – in a heap on the ground below.

In absence of their fight, the birdsong seemed unnaturally loud. None of us said anything to break the quiet. The three of us just stared over the edge, looking at… nothing.

We weren’t that far off the ground… a fall from the tower platform would have been survivable, although neither Aki nor Iekane would have had time to drag themselves into the woods, nor was there any evidence of two adult sized bodies having thudded to the ground.

It was as if they had never been there at all.

Finally, I pulled myself out of the shock, and rushed down the ladder and through the tower to the outside, barely aware that Mitsunari and Hikosane were right behind me.

Aki?

Dad?

Even in my head ‘dad’ didn’t sound right. Aki was… just…  Aki.

And he was gone.

Vanished somewhere between the tower platform and the soft, springy ground – a ground that clearly had not been crushed by two men thudding onto it.

“Where did they go?” Hikosane looked through the brush around the tower.

“Um, ninja tricks,” was all that I could come up with on the fly. I might have been able to formulate a better lie, but my attention was caught by something on the ground. A few stray leaves. Normally, exactly what you’d expect to find on the ground in the middle of a forest.

But they were late Autumn leaves. Maple leaves. Brown and gold where all the trees around us had yet to change color. Nor were any of them maple. I picked one up to examine it. Aside from being out of season, it was just a leaf.

“There may have been men waiting down here to help Iekane escape.” Mitsunari’s explanation to Hikosane sounded more plausible than mine. He glanced at the leaf I had in my hand and nodded.

Aki and Iekane had somehow, without a wormhole, gone elsewhere in time.

“We’re going to go after them, right?” Hikosane tugged on my arm. “Iekane and your father.”

Mitsunari sent a startled look my way – I guess he had missed that part of our drama. “Yes, of course I want to go after them, but now isn’t the time. I’ll need supplies and more arrows,” and a time machine. “Besides, right now we need to get you back to Genba, where I am sure your own father will be watching for you.”

We walked quietly back toward the castle, still alert to any remaining stragglers from Iekane’s crew that would be lurking, ready to jump scare our party. But Masamune and Ieyasu had been quite thorough in the mop-up detail. Masamune’s reputation alone might have been enough to send many those mercenaries running.

I felt a light touch on my shoulder and looked over to see Mitsunari looking at me steadily. “How are you?”

“A few bruises, that’s all.” Hopefully not another black eye. “Nothing that needs medical attention.”

“That was not what I was asking.” He glanced back over his shoulder, to where the tower was still visible in the distance.

Yes. I had been aware that he was really asking, ‘are you ok after watching your father apparently die?’ I had no answer to that. I wasn’t used to delving through my psyche. My mother’s emotions had strangled Toshiie and I for years – I’d never seen any reason to inflict mine on anyone else. Mitsunari was asking me to access the sort of things that were usually packed neatly away. I was afraid if I unpacked them, I would discover feelings that I couldn’t shove back into the suitcase.

But…

Aki’s disappearance… no, I wouldn’t think of him as dead. The man had always seemed indestructible. He wasn’t though. Aki was human. He aged. He could die.

He could die.

He might already be dead.

I couldn’t cry now.

Not here.

Mitsunari took my hands, and gently pulled me into an embrace. Then, with my face pressed against his chest, I cried, while Mitsunari simply held on, his fingers soft across my back.

We returned to the last thing I was in the mood for… another banquet. If Mozumi was humiliated that his wife had not only been cheating on him, but had been treasonously plotting to kill Nobunaga, he chose to pretend otherwise. Or maybe this was banquet was more along the lines of a plea to Nobunaga, the old, ‘hey, I’m sorry a member of the household tried to kill you, but look on the bright side, you didn’t die, so let’s party’ distraction technique.

The mood, at least, was far more subdued than the engagement banquet, and the ‘let’s entertain Nobunaga’ banquets. Most of Mozumi’s vassals were still on the coast, and the ones who had stayed behind, like Susumu, had lost friends and comrades in the struggle. While they were grateful enough to be fed, they (naturally) weren’t in a celebratory mood. Mozumi himself was seated only with Nobunaga and Hideyoshi, all three with their heads together in an intense discussion.

Mozumi didn’t look like he was pleading for his life, but his attitude was far more deferential than it had been a couple weeks ago. I wondered if they were trying to decide Lady Yone’s fate. Normally, she would have been sentenced to death for her treasonous acts, in fact, I was surprised that she had not already been executed. But Mai had pleaded for leniency, for the sake of her daughters, all of whom were under the age of ten. Last I heard, her punishment had yet to be determined.

On the other hand, the happiest person at the banquet was Shohime, who was in her element, alternately – or, well actually simultaneously – flirting with Keiji and Masamune. Both seemed happy enough to reciprocate. I wondered if they were getting her ‘beautiful, perfect, but dumb’ persona, or if now that Hikosane was safe from Lady Yone, Shohime was finally going to be able to allow her true self to emerge.

One person who had escaped the celebration was Mitsuhide, who had claimed that the sight of his injuries would put people off their food. Personally, I thought that unlikely – these men and women had seen far too much danger and battle to care. More likely, he didn’t feel social, or had decided to keep his presence on the down low.

Hikosane had also been able to escape the ‘banquet’ and was supposedly in his room – but I had a feeling he’d snuck out to the stables to hang out with Mitsuhide.

I would have like to have been able to get out of the feasting too – it would have been nice to be able to find a time and space in which to process the events of the few days. But since I was supposed to be an Oda Princess, I couldn’t suddenly claim to be mourning my father (long-dead in my fake backstory). Additionally, to avoid confusion, Hideyoshi had (reluctantly) decided to let the false engagement stand until we returned to Azuchi.

But… I wouldn’t be returning to Azuchi.

Travel in this century being what it was, I intended to part ways with the Oda and Mitsunari as soon as we left Genba. There wasn’t time for me to go all the way to Azuchi and then travel back up to the Togakushi shrine  – I would miss the wormhole if I did.

Until then I would pretend to be a happy, engaged Princess. As such, I looked over and smiled fondly at Mitsunari, who was happily catching up with Ieyasu (less than happy to be caught up with). Déjà vu, Mitsunari’s hand came close to knocking a bowl of soup into Ieyasu’s lap.

Ieyasu braced himself, that familiar scowl descending his face. Mitsunari slowed down, moved his bowl out of the way, and continued the conversation.

Startled, Ieyasu blinked. Then he frowned again – must be disappointed not to have anything to complain about. If I had been in a better mood myself, I would have laughed at him.

Yes, Mitsunari had changed. Well. A little. He was less clumsy. More confident. Oh, under that he was still the too literal absent minded, sweet genius that I …

…couldn’t possibly allow myself to think, to feel about in that way.

Suddenly, I could no longer stand to be in a room full of people and before I could think of any excuse, I jumped to my feet.

“Are you feeling alright, Okatsu?” Looking concerned, Mitsunari reached for my hand, but I was already backing away from the table.

“I’m fine. I thought I’d steal some dessert and take it up to Hikosane.” It was a stupid excuse – Hikosane probably had been fed the same meal we had. But I realized I did want to check in on the kid. “Oh, no stay put,” I added when Mitsunari moved to join me. “I know you haven’t seen Ieyasu in a while, and you want to spend time with your friend.”

Ieyasu sighed the sigh of a man facing a long evening.

Without allowing either of them to say another word, I hurried out of the banquet hall.

Eventually, I tracked Hikosane to the stables – just as I expected, he was pestering Mitsuhide and Kyubei to tell him about their adventures.

“Young man, you are one question away from becoming as annoying as – that one.” Mitsuhide indicated me with a nod of his head.

“Truly? I am honored by the comparison.” Hikosane gave a rather Mitsunari-esque response. Perhaps he had been spending too much time with both of us.

“That was in no way intended to be a compliment.” Mitsuhide stood up, signaling to us all that whatever patience he had was at its end.

“Huh, actually, I took it as a compliment too.” I held out my hand for Hikosane. “If I can annoy you, I must be doing something right.”

Kyubei hastily smothered a laugh, which earned him a look of doom from Mitsuhide.

“Anyway, I will be out of your … wig… soon enough. And you can sooth yourself with the knowledge that Hideyoshi hates me even more than you do.” Every time that man looked at me, his jaw twitched as if he were biting his tongue.

“There is that.” Mitsuhide then turned serious. “Neither I nor Hideyoshi hate you… far from it. You’re simply too volatile for my peace of mind. Doing the work that I, and by association, you, do, requires a certain cold calculation that at this point, you do not yet possess.” I opened my mouth to protest that (which… might have proven his point), but he continued, “And I would regret it if someday you were to acquire that skill.”

He turned back toward Kyubei, who, I belatedly noticed, was sitting in front of a partially completed shogi game – I suppose Hikosane had interrupted them. I wondered if Mitsuhide and Aki would ever get the chance to complete their long-running game. Hopefully, wherever Aki was, he was still alive and would be able to return to this time.

My expression must have been unusually unguarded, because Kyubei said, “Hikosane has told us what happened to Akihira. Do you think Iekane would take him prisoner?” Unspoken was the ‘or simply killed him elsewhere?’

“That’s certainly a possibility.” Or they could both be chasing after each other in a different timeline, but that wasn’t something I could bring up to this audience.

Reminded of his manners – or at least of macro-etiquette in this type of situation, Mitsuhide turned back to me. “I am truly sorry that you lost your mentor. I imagine you were close.”

“He’s her father!” Hikosane had not yet fully learned the lesson of keeping information private, but this likely wasn’t something that I would have been able to hide from Mitsuhide in the long run anyway. “Of course, they were close!”

That bombshell prompted mirror image raised single eyebrows from both Kyubei and Mitsuhide (yeesh, can everyone but me do that?). “Fascinating. That was information that had escaped me.”

I considered telling him that it had been a surprise to me as well, but it would do him no harm to believe that I had always known and had managed to keep it a secret from him. I also imagined I’d get some spy credit chips if he thought that I had grown up being trained by Aki. “Well. You can’t know everything.”

That, in my opinion, was a perfect exit line, so I gave Mitsuhide a version of his own mocking bow, and a more polite one to Kyubei, before leading Hikosane back to the castle.

Hikosane looked back over his shoulder toward the stables as we padded through the corridors of Genba. “I’m looking forward to knowing him better.”

“I don’t think anyone really knows him, aside from Kyubei.” The castle had quieted down for the night. Seemed like the banquet had ended earlier than usual, and people were heading off to bed.

“When Shohime and I are living at Azuchi, I will make it a point to learn as much as I can from and about him.” Hikosane’s voice held a solemn vow, but I was more interested in what he said, and not how.

“You’ll be living at Azuchi?” I slid open the door to his room, and automatically scanned it for samurais and snakes. The page waiting for Hikosane flinched under my stare and stepped backward, nearly tripping over the futon.

“It has not been formalized yet, but we went to Nobunaga and offered ourselves as hostages – no, it’s what I want – and Shohime too,” he added quickly before I could make a protest. “While you may not think it’s necessary, I wish to learn more about governing and I’ll learn more from Nobunaga than my own father.”

This was clearly true, and if his life was still in danger from Iekane, Azuchi was a safer place for him to be. “You’re right, you probably will.”

“I can learn from you too. I’ve never known a kuinochi princess before.” He bowed to me.

Neither have I.

“Hikosane, I’m going on a long journey first – to spend time with my brother and look for my father. I don’t know exactly when I’ll be returning to Azuchi.” Too many directions I wanted and needed to go. No matter where I ended up, part of my heart would be somewhere else.

He looked at me a long time, then ran to me and gave me a long hug. “I am certain I will see you again.”

“You’ll see me tomorrow.” I bowed to him. “Good night, Hiko.”

As he slid closed the door to his room, I wished I were not leaving. I would like to see this child grow up and become whatever it was he was to become. I even wanted to see what kind of damage Shohime would do to the Azuchi warlords.

Who knows… maybe she and Mitsunari would end up together after all. I wished that thought didn’t hurt as much as it did.

I took a deep breath.

And then another.

By the time I got back to our room, I had composed myself… until I opened the door to discover that Mitsunari had lost his mind.

He was …? I tilted my head to try and get a better perspective on what he was… he was… well, it looked like he was playing a game of invisible twister with an octopus.

When he saw me, he blushed, then lost his balance and collapsed in a heap, half on the cushion and half on the floor.

I rushed over to help him up. “Are you alright?” By which I meant both physically and mentally. He scrambled to toss something behind him. It, naturally, bounced off the wall. I put my hands up to avoid getting smacked in the face with it, and –

One of Mozumi’s pillow books?

I looked at the book.

I looked at Mitsunari.

He was still blushing.

For the first time in years, I could think of nothing to say. I might (possibly) have been blushing too. I simply handed the book back to him. My mind still blank, I considered whether I should just back out of the room, then re-enter and do a retake of the entire last five minutes.

Hey. Time travel. It could happen.

@lorei-writes @bestbryn @katriniac @lyds323 @briars7

[eventinelysplayground]

An Evening Snack

I started this fic for @lorei-writes and @wordycheeseblob wish upon an aide event with the passion prompt but I stalled half way through and just finished it recently. It's also different from the others I did for the event and not exactly what I wanted but close enough. I'm still not as comfortable with Ikesen yet but I'm getting there so it was good practice. Kyubei and Chimaki 'talk' about Mitsuhide and Mai over a snack. Pure fluff WC approx 865.

It was late at night and as always Kyubei was taking one last walk around the manor ensuring it was secure before retiring to his room for the day. As he completed the familiar routine he came to a pause at the entrance.

Is that-?

Hmm?

Is what what?

…No, it's nothing.

In truth Kyubei wasn't all that surprised to see the hairpin adorning Lady Mai's hair, in fact he had been praying he was right. Kyubei continued on his rounds, unaware he had started humming to himself until he reached his final stop at the gardens. In this spot too he found himself pausing and remembering the events of the day.

I was the one who delivered it to Lord Mitsuhide while he was imprisoned.

What?

I asked if he needed anything before he left. He said there was only one thing he absolutely had to get…I believe it was his intent to give it to you upon your return to Azuchi.

“Even though I had just been in the dungeons my heart was uplifted as soon as I saw that hairpin, and knowing that was the most important thing to him at that moment…”

Kyubei let out a long breath and was about to head back into the manor when he heard rustling in a nearby bush.

“Chimaki, have you come to visit again already? I'm afraid I have to inform you that neither the Lord or future Lady of the manor are at home right now.”

Chimaki’s tail flicked at Kyubei’s words.

“Lady of the manor.”

Sighing, Kyubei sat down on the steps and looked up into the night sky.

“My lord has always been alone in the shadows, never concerned with the consequences of the way he's chosen to live his life but now…Now he has finally found someone.”

Chimaki moved slightly towards Kyubei and sat down, looking up at him with big eyes. He laughed knowing what that meant and began to rummage around in his pocket finally pulling out a hand towel that held some rice balls.

“Is this what you're looking for?”

Chimaki let out a small chatter and her tail swished elegantly around her.

“Hehe I thought so, guess I know you pretty well now.”

Kyubei tossed one of the rice balls to Chimaki and she began to eat.

“I like to think I know Lord Mitsuhide well too, I've served him a long time after all. He’s always been passionate about the things he does, giving everything of himself in the process. So much so he doesn't even usually bother to take care of himself beyond the bare minimum. Now there is finally something he truly wants for himself, that makes him happy and is a better use for all his passion.”

Kyubei bit into his own rice ball.

“At first I wondered, just what it was he was planning with her. Never expected that it would be this, though I doubt he expected it either.”

Kyubei let out a soft chuckle and turned his attention up to the stars again.

“I worried about him, his way of life was going to end up killing him one way or another. I don't think he will be in such a hurry to sacrifice himself anymore. Did you know Chimaki, he has already declared his intent to marry her to Lord Nobunaga and Lord Hideyoshi?”

Chimaki looked up from her rice ball and blinked at Kyubei.

“I swear it's true, of course at the time he was using it as cover to keep his other deeds undiscovered or so he said anyways but as I said I know Lord Mitsuhide well.”

Kyubei gave Chimaki a cheeky smile and she seemed to smile back at him.

“His passion and kindness always come through in the end, you just need to know what to look for. I suspect Lady Mai has figured that out as well by now.”

The smile left Kyubeis face replaced by a worried frown.

“She is perfect for him, and the only one who is capable of saving Lord Mitsuhide from himself. I hate that she has to carry such a heavy burden alone…”

Kyubei sat silent for a moment then tossed his barely touched rice ball to Chimaki.

“He's so close, she's right there and all he needs to do is not let go of her.”

Kyubei sighed as he ran a hand through his hair. He closed his eyes and sat in silence for a long moment as Chimaki watched him curiously. Finally he let out another sigh before standing.

“She's survived him this long. All I need to do is have faith, right Chimaki?”

Chimaki stood stretching her front legs and letting out a small raspy bark.

“Exactly, it will all work out.”

Kyubei gave a small nod to Chimaki before he walked away. Chimaki watched and waited until Kyubei was gone and then she laughed while shaking her head.

Of course it will all work out silly man!

A sadly sweet smile flashed across Chimaki's face brought on by something she left unspoken.

We kitsune take care of our own after all, even if this one does happen to be human.

[writingwhimsey]

Hi! For the writing prompt ask (if it is still open!) can I request Mitsuhide for “jealousy seems to be a great motivator for you” for a very spicy session? Thank you very much!!!

Thank you for the request! I hope you enjoy! Serving up some spicy and jealous Mitsuhide!

Smut is In the Air Event

Suitor: ikesen Mitsuhide

Prompt: "Jealousy seems to be a great motivator for you."

NSFW 18+ content below

Envy Leads to Pleasure

I was doing some cleaning in the castle. I could feel my face fixed in frustration. “Hey lass, what’s going on?” Masamune asked.

“It’s nothing.” I replied.

“Could it have anything to do with a certain kitsune?” Masamune asked.

I sighed. “Can all of you tell what I’m thinking just because of my face?” I asked in frustration.

Masamune just grinned. “He’s been burying himself in work lately.” He said, stepping closer to me. “It’s a shame really. Should be a crime.”

“Huh?” I asked.

Masamune was getting very close. “Neglecting such a cute lover and letting her be lonely. The work we’re doing is important, but that doesn’t change the fact that you need attention too, lass.”

“I can’t complain.” I replied. “He makes time for me when he can.” Yes, I wished we could have more time together.

Masamune’s fingers soon found their way beneath my chin, turning my gaze to meet his one blue eye. A smirk came to his face. “You know, you could always take me as a lover. I wouldn’t let you be lonely like this.”

I felt my cheeks redden. “Uh…Masamune…” What was he thinking?! I lifted my hands to push against his chest, but Masamune wasn’t budging.

“I think that is quite enough from you.”

The next thing I knew, two familiar arms were wrapping around me from behind and pulling me out of Masamune’s grip. I turned my head to look up at my love. “Mitsuhide…”

Masamune grinned. “About time you show up.” He said. He then looked at me, giving me a wink… though could a guy with one eye technically wink?

“You touch her again and your eye won’t be the only thing you’re missing.” Mitsuhide warned, glaring at Masamune. He was then turning to me. “Come now little mouse, let’s go home.”

“Huh…o…kay.” I replied, feeling confused by what was going on.

Mitsuhide led me from Azuchi castle and to his own palace, his arm around my waist the entire time. His pace was hurried and his steps were clearly agitated. “Mitsuhide…?”

“I’ll explain when we get home.” Mitsuhide replied.

We soon reached Mitsuhide’s palace and he made a beeline for our room. As soon as he shut the door behind him, Mitsuhide was pushing me up against the wall and his lips were on mine in a hungry kiss.

“Mmmnh…Mitsu…hide…” I moaned between kisses.

“Have I been neglecting you?” Mitsuhide asked as he began to trail kisses down the side of my neck. His hands roaming over my curves and sending tingles of pleasure over my skin even through my clothes. “I have to make up for that.”

I was breathless as Mitsuhide began to delft undo the obi at my waist, my kimono spilling open. “Hmm, Mitsu…hide..” I moaned as I felt his tongue trace along the side of my neck. Slowly he began to kiss and lick along my collarbone. His long fingers roamed over my body, stroking me in my most sensitive of places.

He worked his way down the front of my body, his lips, teeth, and tongue leaving marks over my body. He reached my thighs, kissing over them before lifting and resting them on his shoulders and burying his face between my legs. That silver tongue stroked over my sensitive bud, sending shockwaves of pleasure through me.

“Hah…Mitsuhide!” I cried out as the waves of pleasure washed over me.

Mitsuhide’s tongue moved expertly over my heat, lapping at me before twisting and turning. I was sent over the edge as soon as he brought those long cool fingers into play, slipping two inside me and pumping and curling at the right moment, even as his tongue continued to twist over my clit.

I could feel my pleasure building with each stroke of his tongue and movement of his fingers. “Hgn…Mitsuhide!” I cried out as a powerful release hit me, my walls tightening around his fingers.

Mitsuhide continued his ministrations, drawing out my pleasure, until my body was coated in sweat. Slowly, he withdrew from me, licking his fingers clean before picking me up and carrying me over to our bed. Mitsuhide spent the next several hours, bringing me so much pleasure. He brought me to the pinnacle time after time, over and over again until I was a trembling mess in his arms.

I was panting as I came down from my pleasure high. “Mitsu…hide…”

Mitsuhide smiled at me, as he lifted a hand to stroke my cheek before peppering my face in kisses. “How are you feeling little mouse?” He asked, a grin on his face. 

My body was still trembling. “Good…very very good.” I replied.

“Good, now let me continue to make you feel even better…” He replied, slipping himself inside of me. “I know it seems like I’ve been neglecting you for work, but it’s only because I wanted to clear my schedule for you. I wanted to spend the next few days doing exactly this.”

I let out a moan, my body already dangerously close to overstimulation. “Mitsuhide…I…I wasn’t…”

“Shh, I know.” Mitsuhide replied, pressing a kiss to my lips. “Now, let me love you, little mouse.” His hand came beneath my chin, bringing my gaze to his. “Keep those beautiful eyes on me and only me.”

It was then that it hit me. Even though he knew I didn’t want anything from Masamune…he was still jealous. “Jealousy seems to be a great motivator for you.” I said, grinning at him.

“I have to erase every trace of any man who dares touch you from you.” He replied.

I smiled. “No one else matters to me.” I said, wrapping my arms around him. “I love you, Mitsuhide…only you.”

Mitsuhide’s cheeks seemed to be tinged pink. “As I love you, little mouse.” He was then capturing my lips in a heated kiss and continuing to bring me the pleasure that only he could.

Taglist: @zulablaise @tele86 @kisara-16

[bontu-the-l0ver]

A warrior kid

Nobunaga Oda, the king of the sixth heaven, he was walking on the streets of Azushi trying to relax and take some fresh air.

It didn't took long for Nobunaga to stop, he saw a little girl with her mother sleeping between two houses and some people around them.

- What is going on? - Nobunaga got close.

- Lord Nobunaga? The mother died and the kid doesn't want to go away from the corps. - A neighbor spoke.

- I see... And the father?

- He left a day ago to look for medicine but hasn't come back.

Nobunaga tougtht for a moment and took the kid away from the corps

- Lord Nobunaga, what are you doing? - Another Neighbor asked

- We can't just let the little kid alone. I will look for a place for her to stay.

The kid started crying.

- I want my mama!!!

- I'm sorry but your mama isn't able to take care of you... - Nobunaga said as calm as he could.

- Why not? - The kid asked calming down.

- She... She is asleep forever...

The kid stayed silent looking at her mother but eventually nodded. Nobunaga started to walk away with the kid in his arms.

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

Hideyoshi was discussing with Masumane.

- It's so cold... - Masamune groaned.

- It's winter after all. - Hideyoshi answered. - Anyways, Lord Nobunaga hasn't come back.

- I guess he has...

In that moment Nobunaga arrived to the room with the child on his arms that was still sobbing while hugging Nobunaga.

- What is this? - Hideyoshi asked confused.

- Seems like a child to me. - Masamune answered mocking him.

- I know she is a child but what is he doing with a child?

- I fond her, and we are going to find a place for her to live. - Nobunaga said.

- Lord Nobunaga, we are in war, we aren't an orphanage. - Hideyoshi answered.

- Hear me out! - Masamune shout. - Let's raise her to be a warrior.

- Are you stu! - Hideyoshi stopped because Nobunaga spoke.

- What a greet idea!

- Nooo!!! - Hideyoshi stopped them.

- What is a warrior? - The kid asked.

- See, she doesn't even know what a warrior is. - Hideyoshi argumented. - And she is too small and weak, she won't be able to hold a sword much less attack, and in top of that she is a female, she should be getting ready to be a wife in the future.

Masamune and Nobunaga looked at Hideyoshi then at the kid.

- If we feed her she will recover and kids grow fast. - Masamune answered.

- She is a kid! She isn't going to be able to lift a sword even with proper nutrition. - Hideyoshi said annoyed

- Then let's teach her how to use small knifes and raise her to be a spy! - Masamune said. - No one would expect a woman to be a spy for us!

- SHE IS A KID!!!

Hideyoshi trued to make some sense but Nobunaga seemed to like the idea of Masamune more than what Hideyoshi had to say. Mitsuhide entered the room.

- I hear some yelling. - Mitsuhide said.

- Mitsuhide, we are gonna raise her to be a spy! - Nobunaga held the kid to him.

- Ah? She is a kid... - Mitsuhide answered.

- Kids grow fast with proper food. - Masamune argumented.

- Okay I'm in. - Mitsuhide smirk.

- Noooooo!!! - Hideyoshi made a last attempt.

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

Nobunaga ordered Ieyasu to look over her health. Once they made sure she was healthy Masamune cook her food to recover her strength.

- What should we name her? - Masamune asked

- She probably has a name. - Hideyoshi answered.

- But she is now mine. - Nobunaga said.

Mitsunari entered the room.

- What are you doing?

- Trying to find a name for this kid. - Mitsuhide answered.

- What about Nobuko? - Mitsunari suggested.

- Nobuko! Yes! - Nobunaga seemed to agree

- But you want her to be a spy, right? - Mitsuhide said with a confused look. - Won't it blow her cover?

- Then we can give her another name as a cover. - Masamune said.

- What about Kyo? - Ieyasu suggested.

- What a nice idea! - Nobunaga said with a big smile.

While the grill was eating Hideyoshi got close to her.

- Little one what's your name? - Hideyoshi asked.

- Mai... - She answered as Hideyoshi cleaned her mouth.

- Well, welcome to your new home Mai.

[the-secondborn-of-seven]

Witch of Penchant

Prologue: Part 1/4

Shingen x MC (Mai)

the thread of INSPIRATION | Next

Logline - A women in nuns clothes, with an unsettling resemblance to a fox, the witch of Honno-ji, has traveled back in time to an era she has already lived through. She accidentally saved the life of Nobunaga Oda, but now she wonders how else the past has changed.

2200-ish words

Nobunaga scolded him. “Let her be. Her name is Mizusaki Mai. Oh yes and she saved my life.”

Mitsuhide looked surprised, wide eyes, “You saved Oda-sama’s life…?” snakey smile, “And you’re such a slender thing. but it appears your courage makes up for it.” Mai rolled her eyes, returned an equally disturbing, but unusually toothy smile, scoffed, then continued scanning the scene.

This starts as you would expect it, a woman and man find themself at a lonely stone monument as the rain starts suddenly. Although, this is not an unusual spot for the woman to be; witches like her throughout time and space have been the protector of rifts, weak spots in the fabrics of reality. Mai sighed as the undergrad fell through the wormhole before she dived in after him. She would have liked to return him to his time more immediately, but he apparently distracted her enough that she appeared 4 years after him. Oh well…

Mai soon found her vision to be quickly obscured with streams of billowing hot smoke. The Honno-ji shrine came into view around her, currently in flames. An armor suited man sat asleep amidst the chaos. In the year 1582, betrayed by Akechi Mitsuhide, Oda Nobunaga committed seppuku amidst the fiery wreckage of Honno-ji. Or that was how the past played out when she successfully protected the rift from mortals. With the young man nowhere in sight, she infrured he fell into some time before, and the effects of such meant it was nothing like the first time she lived through it. 

A man (presumably Oda Nomunaga) dressed in a suit of ancient Japanese armor was sitting on the floor, head tilted down in sleep. Another man holding some kind of walking stick approached the unconscious man. As Mai’s watery eyes squinted in the smoke, she recognised the gleam as that of a sword. Sparks from the flaming paper walls illuminated the sharp edge of the raised metal blade.

With a sharp intake of the oxygenless air, the witch bellowed a wordless cry at the armored man. Typhoon force winds suddenly blew from her mouth, and the man slammed through the paper walls out of sight. The sword clattered to the ground in a cruel imitation of church bells. Mai heard him scramble for the blade before fleeing.

She hurried over to and crouched beside the unconscious man and shook him urgently. He finally woke, eyelids lifting lazily, ”Who are you?” he sputtered out into the smoke.

“No time for introductions. Come on, let’s get you out of here!” Mai said with a chuckling tone. Mortals were always so confident in their self importance.

"Take my hand!” He obeyed, grabbing her hand. She shifted her weight before hauling him to his feet.

Concerning shapes flitted by in the edges of the pair's vision. They were ignored in favor of an exit. The wooden stairs won’t hold much longer.

The exit came into view! The pair burst through the door, into the refreshing, blessed cool night air and barreled down the path, far from the smoke and flames.

The temple was being engulfed by uncontrollable flames. The man glanced at the destruction before his eyes came to rest on the women in front of him. “Someone tried to do away with me while I slept,” he began, “Audacious but foolish. Killing my guards and getting that close to me is another matter.” 

So those shapes had been guards-Mai sighed, she had been too distracted, if she didn’t cut this chain of distractions from her mind or the rift would fall to desecration and mortals would fall to harm.

The samurai (presumably Oda Nomunaga) meets her eyes, “You there. Woman. Let go of me.”

Mai chuckles, “Oh sorry.” She let go and pulled back. The man looked over her thoughtfully. He stared at her rakusu overtop a brightly colored kimono, the religious garment indicating her servitude to Buddhism. 

“You saved my life. You may be some girl the monks snuck in for amusement but I owe you my thanks.”

“The amusement of others is neither my intention nor my job, but you are welcome.”

Mai surveyed him for injury, but found none. His pale red eyes were unsettling, proud and brutal, hair a solid black. His clothes were finely made, he stood in black armor, with red tassels and a white under-haroi. As fine as the sword and as deadly as tanegashima hanging from his belt.

“What are you staring at? Surely you know who I am.”

“I really don’t.” And Mai really didn’t, it was best not to assume in this unfamiliar past.

“You saved me without knowing who I am? Not expecting reward or favor? … So be it I shall tell you my name. I am the man who rule all under the sun -”

Definitely Oda Nobunaga. “Actually, you don’t really need to tell me.” Mai started approaching the temple. She wanted to stabilize the rift before the fire watch came.

The samurai smirked, “You’re a curious woman. No one’s ever spoken so impudently to me before.” He let out a loud amused laugh that echoed far into the night before continuing, “You intrigue me, which is almost as worthy of praise as saving my life. I am the lord of Azuchi Castle and Daimyo of Owari, Oda Nobunaga.”

Devil King of the Sixth Heaven, Nobunaga Oda-and he was just in the burning Honno-ji temple-meaning…

“Pardon me for asking something strange but what year is it?”

Oda Nobunaga looked confused at the question, “It is 1582. Why?” Because in the year 1582 betrayed by Akechi Mitsuhide, Oda Nobunaga committed seppuku amidst the fiery wreckage of Honno-ji. Mai signed.

“I’ve given my name; now it’s your turn.”

Oda Nobunaga took a full step forward and took her chin in his hand, forcing her to meet his eyes. “Oof!”

That surprised her. Nobunaga’s face was almost touching Mai’s as he smirked.

“Give me your name.”

“Mizusaki. Mizusaki Mai.”

“A good name.”

“Glad you approve. Now let go of me.”

Mai brushed off his hand and would have continued walking towards the burning temple if she hadn't heard a large group coming their way.

A finely dressed samurai, with grey hair in a white coat, a black chest piece and long lavender hakamas,  ran to Nobunaga crying “Oyakata-sama, you’re safe!”

The man arrived at the front of a unit of soldiers, rushing toward the two.

“Mitsunari? Why are you here? Where is Hideyoshi?” Nobunaga said.

“Hideyoshi-sama sent me ahead. He should be here shortly.” He took in the sight of the burning temple with a frown.  “We received information about an assassination attempt. It appears to have been true. I had my men search the grounds but whoever it was had already fled.“ Mitsunari glanced at the women beside him, "If I may ask who is this? I saw the two of you leave the temple together.”

"Mai, present yourself to my subordinate." Nobunaga indicated Mitsunari with a nod and then waited. 

“I’m sorry, did I miss the part where I became a subordinate too? I don't have to follow your orders." 

Nobunaga glared, “Then you’re choosing to disobey me?”

“It seems to be hard not too when one is so set on things going his way.”

Mitsunari coughed before chiming in, “Please this is on me. It was rude of me not to introduce myself first. My name is Ishida Mitsunari. I serve at the side of Toyotomi Hideyoshi-sama, Oyakata-sama’s right hand man.”

"Nice to meet you. I’m Mizusaki Mai."

Nobunaga gestured to Mai once again, "I don’t know who she is, but she roused me and saw me to safety.”

“She did! I can’t thank you enough for protecting our lord’s life.“ Mistunari bowed enthusiastically deep in a show of thanks.

“But what brought you here tonight?” Mitunari continued his questions, “You dress like a nun, but your attire is quite unusual. Are you from abroad?”

“It was the gods’ lightning that guided me here. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a fire to be dealt with and a fox to strangle.”

“What?” “What?!” was the response from both men.

They stared in shock and then disbelief.

“You poor thing. The smoke from the fire was very disorientating, I'm sure.” Mitsunari grabbed her shoulder and began guiding her away from the smokey temple grounds.

Nobunaga laughed, “Are you claiming it was a kitsune who tried to kill me?”

“I never implied that is what the kitsune was plotting, only that I know he is involved.” One of them is referring to a wily bastard of a man, the other is referring to an actual mythical being.

Mistunari interrupted,  pushing the two further away, “Sit down over there and get some fresh air. Someone will bring you a change of clothes.” Mai’s sleeves were black with soot, and the hemline was burned several inches higher.

“Once you’re freshened up, you’ll feel much better.”

“Thank you.” Mai quickly bowed as a soldier approached with a bundle in his hands.

Mitsunari said, “Now let’s get you into these shall we, Ojou-sama? Prepare a tent!” before walking off to conduct the soldiers. Mai redressed in the yellow kimono, white obi, and orange haori. She changed into the clean white tabi before putting on her old geta again. Her hair clung to her back, the two braids at her temples not unwinding. Once she stepped out of the tent, Ishida-san guided her to the center of the hastily assembled camp.

“Wait, right here.“ he said, ”I’ll bring you a cup of good clean water to clear your throat. “ With him gone the only other person nearby was Nobunaga.

"You clean up well”

Mai glared as his eyes lingered in return. She turned and kept her gaze on the entrance waiting for Ishida-san to return. The smoke from the Temple started to clear. Ishida-san’s troops must have put out the fire. As she breathed the clearing air, someone parted the curtain and entered camp but it wasn’t Ishida-san.

A fox-like man, and Mai knew fox-like, approached, “Oyakata-sama. I see you are well.”

“Mitsuhide?” Nobunaga questioned his surprise appearance.

Him? The person who started this whole incident, no—the history is different this time, but how?

“I hurried when I heard about the attack,” Mitsuhide seemed not in the least bit hurried, “but it seems there was nothing for me to worry about.”

“You worry?” Nobunaga smirked, ”Don’t make me laugh. I’ve never even seen you sweat.”

Yet another person entered the camp. This, this was a man in a hurry. “Oyakata-sama! Are you injured?” He cried!

“The only injury I suffered is my pride in letting my assailant escape.” Nobunaga responded.

“I see.”

“And now Toyotomi Hideyoshi shows up!” Mai said offhandedly, she continued to study the temple ground from a distance.

“Aren’t we outspoken? Have we met?” the correctly assumed Hideyoshi said this pointedly.

Nobunaga scolded him. “Let her be. Her name is Mizusaki Mai. Oh yes and she saved my life.”

Mitsuhide looked surprised, wide eyes, “You saved Oda-sama’s life…?” snakey smile, “And you’re such a slender thing. but it appears your courage makes up for it.” Mai rolled her eyes, returned an equally disturbing, but unusually toothy smile, scoffed, then continued scanning the scene.

Hideyoshi asked, “Akechi-san, what are you doing here?”

And Mitsuhide returned a, “ I was wondering the same thing. I didn’t know you were in Kyoto. What about the campaign?”

“When I heard about the threat to our lord’s life I dropped everything to come here. But I never heard anything about you being in Kyoto.”

Mitsuhide frowned, “Are you implying something?”

“Can you swear before our daimyo that you weren’t plotting anything?” Hideyoshi barked out.

Mitsuhide didn’t answer him. The two locked eyes, tension filling the space between them. Hideyoshi is already suspicious that he is responsible for the attack.

Finally, Mitsuhide said, “All men have secrets in chaotic times. Are you saying you act with no ambition of your own?”

“Stop being evasive! Confess!” Hideyoshi said, his eyes flared. He gripped his sword, ready to draw. “If I find that you played any part in this attack on our lord, Akechi-san, I’ll show you no mercy.”

“It wasn’t him…” Mai said, still facing away, she began untangling her hair.

“What?”

Mai looked back and said, "I caught a glimpse of the man who attacked Nobu—um, Oda-sama, but the drape of his clothes was all wrong. And Mitsuhide is spotless.” The bells the man wore also reminded her of monks. “And we were both covered in soot.” He still smelled of soot actually.

"Mizusaki-san, was it? Stay out of this.” Hideyoshi said rudely, “We’ll settle things with you later and learn why you’ve schemed to get so close to Oyakata-sama.”

“Excuse you,” Mai snarked,“I’m a nun with no interest in scheming-” A lie. Two actually, she hasn’t been a nun in a long while.

Nobunaga said, “Enough, Hideyoshi. Regardless of what brings Mitsuhide here, I am alive and well.”

Hideyoshi bowed his head, "My apologies, Oyakata-sama.” He immediately let go of his sword, his hand relaxing somewhat.

Nobunaga turned to Mai, “Hideyoshi, Mitsuhide. Leave us. I have something to discuss with Mai-gozen.”

"With me?“ Gozen?

They stepped outside as Nobunaga approached. "Your discourteous manners aside, you saved my life. I’m intrigued by you. You’re a woman who carries fortune’s favor of that I’m certain.”

Mai’s eyes widened. Nobunaga had slipped one arm around her waist, pulling her possessively toward him, his voice close, “How would you like to rule the world at my side?”

“Apologies, but I really must go; I have my duties, and you have your nation to unite…” And with that prediction for the man, she fled towards the edges of camp. “What did you say to Me!” Nobunaga called after her. Toyotomi-san and Akechi-san called on her but she fled the small camp, racing into the forest.

tags: @ginshoujo, @gloriouspiratenacho,

[arcsnonexistant-writingblog]

|| I Enjoy Your Pain 

[ Mitsuhide and Reader ] 

“Endless amount of people isn't it, Lord Nobunaga?”

||Words : 555

You were in extreme amounts of pain, your eyes flowing with tears.  It was a sight to behold after all, well at least for Misuhide who stood there and watched you suffer. You were on the floor, your legs spread out to make sure you would not be in pain again. But despite the efforts you felt the stinging pain from when you tripped and got yourself into this position. 

When you thought that everything had calmed down a bit, you heard the low chuckle from Mitsuhide, who’s chuckle made chills go down your spine. He was laughing at your pain, and that made your expression display displeasure all over it. “Why are you laughing?” Your voice was shaky due to the tears from your pain, it was hard not to cry after all. 

“What a show you put on, I am enjoying your pain…how sweet your cries sound…” He chuckled, you see this look in his eyes, close to some kind of playfulness. 

You felt your jaw drop at him calling your cries sweet, and your cheeks puff up “w-well that’s just weird, you just…don’t laugh at someone’s pain and think it’s ok!” You tried correcting him, but all you could really hear was his continued laughs.

He lended a hand out to you, and you take it without any question. He pulls you up to where you’re standing up straight again, giving you a second to allow you to rebalance yourself. “Thank you” You spoke quietly, and you felt in no mood to cry due to the aching pain. 

“Honestly you will never understand how satisfying pain looks in my eyes…if you did you would be giggling like a baby. Watching someone struggle really gets me in a good mood~” He chuckled, and whispered into your ear, as if they weren’t alone. 

His eyes had become slits as he laughed, the wrinkles under his eyes became more present, and his smile marks were pushed up. You could just watch those cold eyes staring into yours and feel so targeted. To your credit, he was…non-human in many aspects, it could be as simple as how he talks as if he doesn’t get common sense, how he loves seeing the pain in others eyes. 

Sure, he helped you today, but that didn’t mean that one day he might just take your moment of vulnerability to get a kill, and only for the fun of it. That is, at least how you see him, how he has been soaked in blood from head to toes, or how he speaks of harming others as eating. 

Honestly you didn’t get it, you really didn’t, and you just stared into his eyes for so long that you did know you were spaced out in your thoughts. Like as if you had been staring into a void, and in his perspective you were just staring out into nothingness. He watches in amusement of how you did, but eventually he starts waving a hand in front of your face to get your attention. “Hello~ Earth to [Your Name}~ Wakey Wakey~” He chuckled lightly, it was too amusing.

“Wait huh?” You got back into reality to be met with a sly smile on Mitsuhide’s face, “Oh hello.” You smile a little bit, as if you forgot what happened.

What a weird moment. 

[ikesenfantasy]

Ikemen Sengoku: What-If Collection Event - Warlord Pets

(Don't mind the photo) I wrote this fanfiction for fun where the warlords turn into their animal mascots. Since there wasn’t much spotlight for their beloved pets I thought I would write about them in a What-If Collection Event for April Fool’s Day on April 1st. Since the increase of the IkeSen roster I decided to take the time to add the additional six characters. So a total of all seventeen men in the IkeSen roster.

THE HERD PART 1

It was a pleasant evening like any other evening. Tomorrow everyone from the Usugi-Takeda forces along with Kennyo, Motonari & Kicho were going to visit Azuchi. Sasuke already visited me two days ago since Kenshin wanted to visit me. I thought we would all try something that will get everyone working together…or at least trying to. I already had some ideas but Sasuke hasn’t visited me to discuss it over with him. Maybe we’ll talk tomorrow.

“Ah the moon is so beautiful this evening; it would be nice to watch it with everyone. Time for bed.”

By the next morning I was the first in the war council room. Usually everyone would be here or I would be informed to show up but no one was here until the sliding door opened. I sat up straight but instead I got pounced.

“Oof! What in the world?”

It was then I felt something wet on my face. When I lifted up whatever was on top of me and tried to see who or what it was.

A TIGER?! SHOGETSU?!

“You were supposed to be at the manor with Masamune, what in the world are you doing here!? I better return you back to the manor as soon as possible or else Hideyoshi is going to blow a blood vessel.”

But the tiger was not the only animal that was in war council a whole colossal of animals flooded into the room. I didn’t even realize there was a monkey trying to attack the tiger that I was holding.

OH NO! Please no fighting!

I decided to stand up and try to reach for the monkey that was clinging to the back side of my kimono. But then I felt a nudge almost making me fall over. The perpetrator was a deer.

“OH GREAT! NOW IEYASU’S DEER WASABI!”

Circling around my ankle was a cat meowing and purring as if the fiasco I was in the middle of didn’t exist.

What is with all these animals? Something really isn’t right. The monkey on my back let out a yelp as it let go of my back who was trying to reach for the tiger. Now the monkey was flicking his tail that was sadly bitten by a fox. When the fox let go the monkey started chasing the fox. I better stop them.

I was so distracted by the chase I tripped over the cat and planted face first on the floor. A heard a soft snort and a boop from my cheek from a pig snout. What a mess. All of the Azuchi warlord pets are running amuck. I wonder why. I then heard the pig squeal as he ran off into a different direction being chased by something.

When I realized what happened I noticed a wolf chasing the poor piggy. On the wolf’s back was a squirrel. And behind them was a bear with a bunny and a hamster on its back chasing the other animals across the room.

Just when the wolf and bear were chasing after the pig and cat they nearly knocked over a jar. The peacock that flashed its feathers blocked their direction to the beautiful jar as if protecting something precious spooking any nearby it away.

I decided to try and chase after the animals stopping them from chasing each other around the room but it only made matters worse as the wolf started to fly into the air by a wallaby. A parrot flying overhead was shaking his head as the wolf collapsed on the ground after being air born by the wallaby’s kick.

The war council was in such disarray as animals were fighting among each other until I heard a loud scream that stopped the infighting and set all the animals on alert. They looked up and saw a hawk that was swarming around a lot more higher then the parrot. The hawk seated itself where Nobunaga would sit. Soon the animals that were most likely warlords from Azuchi began to position themselves in their spots. Now if I didn’t know better these were the warlords. How would they know to position themselves like their owners would sit. The parrot then landed just inches away from the hawk.

“Finally…now that they have settled down we can finally get down to business.” The parrot spoke.

I looked at the parrot who spoke and truly it sounded like Kicho and not Fuka. It was unbelievable. There was no way.

“N-no way…Kicho? Is that you?” I can’t believe I’m speaking to Kicho the parrot. Interesting ring to it if I do say so myself.

“Yes. It seems I’m the only one who can talk. Unlike the others. I don’t know what or how this happened. From the looks of it we all woke up this way.”

[otomefoxystar]

Finiding the Light - Chapter 11

Fandom: Ikemen Sengoku

Pairing: Mitsuhide X OC ( Evelyn)

TW: Self doubt

It had been almost three weeks since she started sewing, but she had finally finished. They were sitting in the gardens having lunch, and Mitsuhide watched as Evelyn ate the fruit in front of her. He was glad she was trying so hard. "Do you Want to put those clothes you made to use and train?” She raised an eyebrow, “What kind of training are we talking about here?” He drank a sip of water and put the cup back on the table as he swallowed. “Just the basics for now, self-defense, so if you are ever in a position like that again, you can get out of it. Then we’ll progress to weapons. I’ve even had Ieyasu agree to teach you how to use a bow.” She laughed, “I can’t imagine Ieyasu teaching me that he gets frustrated with the medicinal stuff.”  Mitsuhide’s lip drew up in a smirk. “He cares about you and your safety, too. I’m sure you can handle him.” She put her chopsticks down and popped a strawberry in her mouth. The flavor filled her mouth “It’s too bad you can’t taste these strawberries are delicious.” Mitsuhide smiled. “I’m just happy that you’re enjoying them.” 

After they finished, Mitsuhide had her change; she came out wearing pants and a lightweight Kimono. There was no Obi, so she didn’t need to worry about feeling constricted. Mitsuhide had his arms crossed and nodded his head in acceptance. “We’re going outside.” They walked side by side to go outside. Once they were on the expanse of the outdoors, he faced her. “You’re going to have to be able to free yourself if an attacker holds you from behind, and from the front, you need to know the weak spots and remember if you’re attacker is male there, it’s always good to hit them in the more sensitive areas.”  For the next couple hours, he showed her how to escape if she were captured, where to hit them to take them down so she would have time to flee. 

Training had become a new part of their daily routine, and he trained her hard, ensuring she got the moves down correctly. When she finally was proficient enough in self-defense, he moved on to weapons, starting with a sword and occasionally training with the gun. However, the sword required more training, so he primarily focused on that. Training made her hungry, so she ate more; she didn’t ignore her hunger anymore. She was embracing it.

After her bath she joined Mitsuhide for dinner. He looked at her and smiled. “What?” She asked with a curious tone in her voice. “You seem better, you’re eating, and you’ve not only gained weight but muscle. You don’t seem so miserable. She took a bite, then swallowed. “The training is a good distraction from the pain, better than not eating.” He nodded. “It’s a healthy distraction.” She gave him a rare but small smile. “Was that a smile I just saw?” She shook her head. “You’re imagining things, Mitsuhide.” He shook his head and laughed. “No, it was definitely a smile. I’m glad you’re feeling better, Evelyn.” They ate with light conversation.

Ieyasu had come before she woke up. “Does she always sleep late?” Ieyasu asked Mitsuhide, “On most days, yes, but she’s been getting up earlier than she used to. Before, she wouldn’t get up before lunch. It’s better now.” Ieyasu raised a brow. “She’s getting better, Ieyasu. It might not seem like it, but she is.” He frowned. “I believe you. I just worry about her, but I’m glad you’re training her. It was a good idea.” Fully dressed, she walked out to the dining area. “Lady Evelyn, I have your breakfast. You can sit down; I’ll bring it out.” Mitsuhide got up and motioned for Ieyasu to exit his study. “Let’s go see her shall we?” When Evelyn saw them, her food was being brought out. “Good morning, sleepy head,” Ieyasu said, then he looked her over. “You look well. Much healthier than the last time I saw you.” Mitsuhide sat down across from her on the pillow that was seated there. “She’s been working hard.”  Ieyasu sat next to her. “I can tell.” A compliment from Ieyasu was rare so she would take it, but she wasn’t going to make a big deal out of it. 

“Thank you Ieyasu.” After she finished her meal Ieyasu showed her how to use a bow and even brought one for her to use along with arrows. It gave Mitsuhide some much needed time to read some letters he’s been putting off. After hours of training with the bow, Ieyasu got the arrows from where they had fallen. She handed the bow back over to him. “No, that’s for you. I want you to keep it.” She looked at him surprised “You do?” He nodded and smiled. “Just take it and practice; you’ll get better in no time. Now that you know the basics, it’ll only get easier. Let’s go inside.” She followed him inside and put the bow and the arrows next to her sewing supplies in the corner of the room that had somehow become the corner where she put her things.

When they found Mitsuhide in his study, he had a grim look on his face. “Mitsuhide?” She questioned if he was alright; he looked her over and stood up. “Nobunaga wants us to return to see him.” She turned white and could hear the blood pumping in her ears. Ieyasu squeezed her hand, “It’s just a meeting, but Evelyn, you’re better. Maybe it’s time to come home.” Mitsuhide walked towards her and put his hand on her shoulder. “Let’s just see what Nobunaga says, then we’ll figure out the rest. You can stay as long as you want I already told you this.” He said as he narrowed his eyes at Ieyasu. “She’s got to learn to stand on her own without you, or is it you holding onto her.” Ieyasu snapped. “Forget it.” He hugged Evelyn with one arm. When he released her, he looked at her pale face. “I’ll see you soon.” and he turned to leave. Evelyn followed him and watched him pack up his bow and mount his horse. “Get some rest, you did well today.” He trotted off towards Azuchi 

Mitsuhide slowly walked up to her side. “It’s going to be alright.” She looked over to him. “Will it? I’m scared of you leaving me. What if you have to? What will I do then?” He turned to face her and grabbed her hands. “You’re stronger than you think.” 

“I’m scared, Mitsuhide.” He lifted her chin with his finger, and she looked at him. “Promise me one thing.” She looked at him, curious about what he was going to say. “What?” He looked at her with that look he got when he was serious about something. “Don’t reverse all the work you’ve done. Don’t hurt yourself.” She furrowed her brow. “I won’t.” He smiled and stroked her cheek. “Good, we would all be devastated. Me especially I’ve grown quite fond of you. You’ve become an important person in my life.” She threw herself against him, hugging him tight. He hugged her back just as tight. “You’re important to me too, Mitsuhide.” 

After dinner, Evelyn settled into the bath, letting the water ease her sore muscles. Training was hard on the muscles. Forget about running and workout videos. All you need to do is wield a sword or bow, and you’re golden. She washed her long hair and exited the bath, getting dressed in her night clothes. Mitsuhide was at his desk and watched as she got tucked into the futon. He had several candles lit and decided to turn in himself; after he changed, he looked down at her, seeing that she was well on her way to falling asleep. He blew out the candles and settled in the futon next to her.

When Evelyn woke up, Mitsuhide was still in bed. She had a particularly hard night, and although she tried to deal with the wakefulness and cry quietly on her own, Mitsuhide woke up anyway and was there for her just like always. He was probably tired from consoling her. She rubbed the sleep out of her eyes, trying to wake up, and he blinked his eyes open. “Mitsuhide, did I wake you?” He chuckled. “No, I was already waking up.” In her wakefulness, she noticed their legs tangled together and blushed. She brought her legs away. “Why are you getting flustered? I always wake up to us like that; I’m sure it happens when we’re both asleep. It’s not like you haven’t been wrapped up in my body before.” She hit the side of his shoulder. “Stop it! Why must you tease me?” Mitsuhide chuckled lowly. “Because you’re fun to tease, little mouse. You get so worked up.”  She rolled her eyes, “Ugh, you’re insufferable.” 

Mitsuhuide got out of bed and looked down at her. “We’ve got to see Nobunaga; a little haste would be appreciated. “  She stood up and looked in the mirror, studying herself while Mitsuhide dressed. She looked worn out, with dark circles under her eyes. Her face was thinner than it used to be, and she didn’t like how it looked; her collarbones were defined and protruding. Why hadn’t she noticed how sickly she looked before? Tears formed, but she picked up the hairbrush and brushed through the knots. As Mitsuhide excited the dressing screen, he looked at her and saw the tears, noticing her turmoil. “Why the tears, little mouse?” She set the brush down once she was satisfied. “I don’t look like myself.”

She hadn’t realized how bad it had gotten; how could Mitsuhide and Ieyasu, even Sasuke, not be worried?! She ignored it, and she chose not to see it. “  You look better than you did a month ago.” She looked at him with a flabbergasted expression as if what he said was so unbelievable. However, he considered that to her, it must be because the look she was giving him was telling him how disgusted she was with herself as if she had committed the worst crime imaginable. “How could I look worse than this?” He grabbed her shoulder, making her turn to look at him. He wiped her tears away. “Evelyn,  it shows how far you’ve come. Perhaps you had to heal a bit before you saw the truth.” He paused. “Now that you are seeing more clearly, what will you do about it?” 

Determination flashed behind her eyes, and her face hardened as she stood up straighter. “I’m going to get over this, I am going to keep getting better and healthier.” More tears rolled down her cheeks. “I want to be okay, Mitsuhide. I want to be me again.” He wiped her tears away yet again. “You are forever changed, my dear, but-“She shook her head and cried harder. He lifted her chin so that she was looking into his golden eyes. “But this is a new you, a stronger you. Just because you won’t be the same again does not mean you are weak and broken. You most certainly are not; you are a strong woman. I hope you know that.” She let a small smile grace her face. “Thank you for believing in me.” He looked at her tenderly. “I’ve always believed in you.” She wiped the rest of her tears away, and he looked at her. “Let’s go see what Nobunaga needs us for.” He said as he held out his hand for her to take and so they left his manor and made their way to the meeting hall where everyone waited.

[ikeromantic]

Entwined, Ch 12

Part 12 of a multipart series. Mai has been reborn in the modern age after a full life in the Sengoku. The warlords as spirit animals find her again after 500 years of searching for her soul. Approx. 3300 words.

Chapter List

Mai struggled not to fall asleep. Exhaustion had her in its grip, but she wanted - needed - to see Mitsuhide before she let herself give in to it. The cold, sterile hospital air kept her alert as she sat waiting. The rabbit watched her with a disapproving gaze, its mismatched eyes flicked between her and the pillow on the other end of the bed. 

“You can stop looking at me like that. I’ll rest after I talk to Mitsuhide,” she told the rabbit. Somehow, it didn’t feel silly talking to him. 

The rabbit huffed and rubbed its face with a paw. Then it hopped over and snuggled onto her lap, placing its paws on top of her uninjured hand. It looked up at her with a serious expression, its nose twitching. 

“If I didn’t know better, I would think you’re worried about me.” Mai stroked the bunny’s long, soft ears. “I guess that’s why you’re a good therapy rabbit, huh?”

“He probably is. I know I am.” 

The unexpected voice made Mai do a little hop on the bed. She looked up to see a gorgeous, pink haired guy standing in the doorway. He held a bouquet of pink roses that nearly matched the color of his hair. “Ranmaru?”

He smiled brightly. “You remembered me! I am so glad!” The roses went onto the small table by the door as he stepped closer.

“Umm, of course. But . . .”

“What am I doing here?” He gave a slight shrug. “Well. I heard you were hurt. See, Kennyo - my agent - is old friends with Shingen and, anyway, it’s not important. What matters is, are you ok?” His gaze traveled over her, brows drawing together with worry. 

Mai paused, not sure how to politely ask why a guy she’d met once on the train was in her hospital room. The question felt both completely unnecessary and pretty damn important. There was part of her that felt like, of course Ranmaru was here! And another that found it bizarre. 

“I’m doing ok,” she said after a pause. “But, Ranmaru . . . who are you? Really?”

He smiled with wide, innocent eyes. It was the kind of expression that might completely derail someone’s thoughts with just how adorable he was. “I am so happy you’re alright. When we heard what danger that - that kitsune put you in -”

“Wait, we?”

Ranmaru blushed, and took a breath. “Mm. My manager and I. Anyway, look! I brought you a treat!” He pulled out a candy box in a colorful furoshiki. He handed it to Mai. 

She took it but didn’t open it. “You didn’t answer my question.”

“I told you who I am on the train. And you remembered me. My last name is Mori, but don’t tell anyone, ‘kay?”

She frowned. “That’s not what I mean. I mean . . . who are you to me? How do you know me?”

Ranmaru’s mouth opened, then closed again. “Umm. Is it ok if I can’t really talk to you about that just yet? Because I could never lie to you, Mai. But some things you have to be ready to hear.”

“I’m ready right now.” Mai crossed her arms and tried to hold onto her frown and her glare. It was hard because the sweet-faced Ranmaru looked as if he might start crying. 

After a long, awkward pause, his shoulders fell. “Alright. I’ll tell you what I can. But you have to promise not to let Mitsuhi- ah!” 

The man appeared behind Ranmaru as if summoned by his name. Mitsuhide’s slender fingers curled around Ranmaru’s shoulder. There was an audible pop and suddenly, Ranmaru was gone. Mitsuhide held a struggling white stoat in his hand.

“It seems you’ve been plagued by visitors without a chance to rest, little mouse.” 

Mai was so shocked she couldn’t speak. 

Mitsuhide’s golden gaze settled on the rabbit in her lap beside the sweets Ranmaru brought. “You should go. She is in my care now.”

The rabbit thumped its foot against the mattress, fur bristling. 

“We can discuss your accusations later, Uesugi.” Mitsuhide’s expression was cold and his tone one of icy disdain. 

After a huff, the bunny leapt down from the bed and loped out of the room. 

Mitsuhide set the stoat down after it and closed the door. “There. Much better.” He smiled and sat down at the edge of Mai’s bed. 

“D-did Ranmaru turn into a weasel? I saw him just - just -” She tried to make sense of it, but the only thing that came to mind were folktales. Stories that clearly weren’t true. Except what she’d just seen could have come from one of them. 

“Is that what happened, little mouse? I think you may be more tired than you realize.” He set a warm hand on her leg, squeezing her calf gently. 

Mai felt a knot of tension she hadn’t even realized she was carrying release at his touch. “I-I am, but he - you -”

Mitsuhide smiled, though the expression looked strained. “And you are on something for the pain as well. Perhaps things are not quite as they seem.”

“No. I want you to tell me now. What - what is going on? How do I know you? And - and the others? Shingen and Sasuke and Ranmaru and -” The stress and horror of her day fell on her all at once. She felt the most absurd urge to fling herself into Mitsuhide’s arms and burrow her face against his chest to cry until the tightness in her released. A tear rolled free from the corner of her eye and slid down her cheek.

He took her in his arms, careful of her injuries. His scent enfolded her as she pressed her face against his shoulder and let herself relax into his touch. Mitsuhide’s hand stroked her back, slow calming motions to ease her tired heart and mind. 

“I want to - to be mad at you,” she confessed. “You never answer my questions. And something IS happening. Something I - I don’t understand but you,” she leaned back to look him in the eyes. “You are right in the middle of it.”

Mitsuhide’s expression was unreadable. His eyes glinted with hidden secrets and stories, and his lips were pressed to a thin line. “You’ve been through enough for tonight, little one. Why are you looking for more trouble?”

She took a shaky breath. “Is that what you are?”

“Trouble?” He chuckled. “I have been called worse.” He brushed her hair back from her face, his fingertips trailing along the edge of her ear. “I suppose I am.”

Mai took his hand in hers. “I want to know, Mitsuhide. Everything.”

He sighed and stroked a finger along the back of her hand. The sensation was like a candle flame that raced up the nerves of her arm and set her heart on fire. “Everything? I wouldn’t know where to start. And this is not the time for what questions you have.”

“But -”

“You will need to be focused when you speak to the police. They want your report of tonight’s events. I don’t want you to worry about . . . other things.” His thumb was a warm, comforting pressure at her wrist. “Trust me.”

“I do. I don’t know why but I do.” Mai didn’t want to think too long on that statement. It was irrational, mad really. She knew very little about Mitsuhide. And though he’d saved her, he also put her in danger. “Just please, next time you set up a clever plot, can you just . . . I dunno. Warn me?”

Mitsuhide stroked his finger along the line of her jaw, stopping at her chin. “I will. I promise.”

She studied his face, hoping for some sign of his thoughts. After a moment, Mai gave up the effort. “Alright. I’ll take that, I guess.” 

“Good. Now, little mouse, you need to sleep.” His crescent moon smile returned as he brushed his thumb over her brows. “Your eyes are puffy.”

“You are so -” Mai felt at a loss for words. But his teasing really did make her feel better. “Just grrrr.”

“Mmm. Just?” 

A laugh escaped her still-parted lips. “Yeah. Pretty much.” 

Mitsuhide ruffled her hair. “I shall endeavor to be more. I’d hate to be relegated to a mere sound of frustration in your mind.” 

“I wouldn’t say mere. Sometimes you’re practically a symphony.” 

“Of more than frustration, I hope?” His golden gaze was impossible to look away from. The playful glint, the soft vulnerability in them intoxicated her. 

Mai swallowed. “A - a lot more.”

“Then I will be satisfied for now.” He moved to stand, relinquishing his hold on her.

“Wait!”

Mitsuhide paused, an eyebrow raised.

“I - I don’t want to be alone right now. I won’t sleep if - if you leave.” It was a bit of emotional blackmail, she knew. But it was true as well. She didn’t want to be alone, and more than that, she wanted the company of one particular, infuriating man.

His thin smile stretched wide, a soft, resigned exhalation. “I have places to be, but there is a little time between. I will stay, just until you fall asleep. Is that acceptable?”

She nodded, feeling a little guilty. 

Mitsuhide sat down again on the edge of the bed. “Lie down. All the way.” He gently took hold of her shoulder and supported her as she laid back. Then he tugged the blanket up to her chin and made sure her arms were under it. 

“I’m not a little kid,” Mai pouted, feeling exactly like a child. 

“No. You aren’t.” He drew a hand over her face, his fingertips brushed lightly over her. The light touch caused her eyes to flutter shut. 

Mai found it hard to open them again. The thin hospital blanket felt warm with Mitsuhide sitting so close. Her body gave in to the need to sleep. The world drifted away, all her questions, all her worries, sliding away into a comforting darkness. “Thank you,” she murmured, “for staying.”

The last words she heard before sleep took her, “I have never been able to deny you, little one.”

***

A hawk sat on a bare branch of an ancient cedar tree, staring down imperiously at the other animals gathered there. A one eyed tiger striped cat sat on a lower branch, cleaning its fur while a white rabbit chewed furiously at a clover blossom below it. A squirrel perched, half hidden in the foliage, while a pig snuffled around the roots, ridden by a small, grey hamster. There were other even stranger animals - a kangaroo, and a white weasel, a peacock, and a wolf. In the center, at the base of the vast trunk, sat a single white fox with golden eyes.

“She could have died. Again. The kitsune’s worse at this than I am.” The kangaroo spoke, his voice loud enough to carry through the odd gathering. 

The fox sniffed. “I wouldn’t have let that happen.”

“No? Because if this is your protection, the angel might be better off without your interference,” the bear rumbled.

“A true tactician would have considered the possibility of her arrival, and planned for it,” piped the small, grey hamster with violet eyes. His fur bristled as he glared at the fox.

Several other voices rose then, a cacophony of worry and anger. The hawk cut it short with a harsh cry. “Enough!” His piercing, garnet gaze pinned each of the animals to where they stood, sat, or perched. “Let the kitsune speak.”

The fox swished its tail once, a grin spreading over his face, but with fangs bared it was anything but friendly. “Thank you all for your . . . insights. The little mouse would be overwhelmed by your concern.” His red tongue lolled between his jaws as he turned his head to regard each animal with a hard, cold golden eye. “She may not be so pleased that you all think her cowardly or incapable.”

“Hey! We never said that,” growled a wolf, hackles raised. The bear beside him put a paw on the wolf’s back, smoothing the grey-brown fur. 

“Oh? Is it not implied?” The white fox widened one eye as if to arch his brow.

The gathering exploded again in a mix of voices and bestial growls. Surprisingly, it was the rabbit that brought them to order this time. The white bunny thumped its foot hard against a tree root until the rest of the beasts fell quiet. “Make your point, kitsune. I am bored of talking.”

“My point? Hmmm.” The fox smiled again. “Only that you have all discounted how very capable my little mouse is. I could not keep her out of harm’s way before, and I cannot now. None of you can, because she is not a bauble to be locked away. She is brave, assertive. Independent. And I am proud of her, even as I regret the pain she suffered.”

A low murmur spread out from the tree then, a mix of approval and consternation. 

“This was still your fault, Akechi,” the pig said, his voice laced with a sharp bitterness that seemed in opposition to his cheery demeanor.

“I do not deny that. I should have moved to secure Keiki more quickly.” The fox bowed his head. 

Several animals spoke up then, all saying they could have protected her, kept her from harm. The hawk spoke over them in a tone that brooked no dissent. “Uesugi, Kennyo, Takeda and I will speak privately on this. Until then, none shall interfere with our little fireball.”

“None? What does that mean?” A small monkey poked its head from the leafy branch near the hawk, gentle brown eyes wide and unhappy.

“Leave her alone for now. She will need rest anyway, and that is best accomplished without company.” The hawk’s gimlet-eyed gaze touched every one of the host gathered there. They began to disperse, each to their own place. Some took man-shape as they left, while others stayed on four legs or kept their wings. Only the white fox stayed, head still bowed.

“Alone, hm,” the fox murmured. “As if, after 500 long years, I could turn away from her, even for a moment.” 

***

Mai spent a few hours answering questions for the police the next day. They nodded and took notes, and left their cards for her questions. Once they were gone, the hospital discharged her. Asami and Kaiya came to take her home. 

“I can’t believe that guy! What was he even thinking,” Kaiya shook her head. 

“Probably something stupid, like hey! Why stop at embezzlement when I could add assault to my crimes,” Asami chimed in. 

Kaiya sighed. “I’m just glad you’re ok. Who knew costuming could be so dangerous?”

“Right?” Mai gave her friends a tired smile. 

“I guess this means you didn’t get to hook up with Mister Sexy from your past life, huh?” Asami’s smile was sly, though her gentle gaze told Mai she was still worried about her.

“Nope, but he rescued me so I guess that counts for something.” Mai shrugged, then regretted the motion. Her arm ached in the sling, and she wondered how long it would take to heal.

Kaiya gave them both an incredulous look. “What are you talking about? Past life?”

Mai and Asami filled their friend in on the way back to Mai’s flat. By the time they got there, Kaiya was shaking her head. “That is so weird. All of it.” She frowned at Mai. “Maybe it would be a good idea to see a - a therapist or something. And stay away from this guy until you get your head sorted.”

“Kaiya!” Asami looked surprised. “You don’t think it’s romantic? I mean think about it! They could have been lovers before, and now their souls are reaching for each other and -”

“Stuff like that only happens in rom coms and romance novels.” Kaiya took a deep breath. “I’m just saying, it all sounds pretty wild. But what we know is that you got really hurt yesterday, and this guy you’re crushing on - Mitsuhide? He was definitely involved, even if he didn’t hurt you. You might want to take a step back, just to make sure you’re ready for this, whatever it is.”

Mai didn’t like the advice very much, but it did sound pretty sensible. “I’ll think about it anyway,” she said after a moment. “It’s not like there’s any rush.”

“Right?” Kaiya agreed, just as Asami said, “You’re joking!”

The three of them looked at each other, and realized all at once how crazy their argument sounded. They burst into laughter.

Asami helped Mai upstairs, while Kaiya went to grab them lunch. It made Mai feel strange to be the center of so much concern, even with her close friends. Telling her family would be even worse. 

“So did our past-life love bring you the candy and flowers?” Asami asked as she helped Mai sit on her bed.

“No. I got them from -”

“Don’t tell me it’s the one you broke up with? Hideyoshi?” 

Mai shook her head.

“The hot chef guy?” Asami tried again.

“Nope.”

“Oh. My. God. You have another secret admirer?” Asami laughed incredulously. 

“I mean, I don’t think so? It was kind of weird.” Mai told her about the hospital visits, though she left out the peacock and the way she’d thought she saw Ranmaru turn into a white weasel. She wasn’t ready for Asami to think she was that crazy. 

Kaiya showed up about half-way through, so Mai had to start again while the three of them shared sandwiches and the box of chocolates from Ranmaru. Her two friends looked as confused as she felt.

“So, let me get this straight. The chocolates are from some guy you ran into on the train. And a guy you met once while on a date with Hideyoshi came in, with friends, including someone who’s invested in the theater program? And they brought you a support animal?” Kaiya sounded the most incredulous.

Mai nodded. “Yeah. It was weird. But they were all so nice! It kind of, I dunno. Felt like I knew them? Like it sounds weird but it seemed natural while they were there?”

“I think you must have got a concussion,” Asami winked to take the sting from her teasing.

Kaiya laughed. “Honestly, I can’t decide if you’re lucky or not. I’d freak out if a bunch of cute guys I barely know showed up and I was in a hospital bed.”

“Trust me, I was freaking out.” Mai grinned. 

“This just makes me more sure you need to follow up with my hypnotherapist. I asked for you, and he’s got some openings this week.” Asami took out her phone and pulled up a text. “What are you doing Wednesday?”

“Hey, hold on. Are you serious?” Kaiya gave Asami a sidelong glance. “Hypnosis? That’s not even real!”

“How would you know? Did you ever try it?” Asami shot back.

Mai cleared her throat. “Umm. Hey, it might be worth trying. And anyway, Kaiya, I have a favor to ask you.” She fiddled with the hem of her shirt. She hated, absolutely hated asking for favors. “Would you be willing to help me finish out my current orders? I just don’t know - with my arm - how fast I can get them out? And I don’t want to disappoint anyone. I can pay you too!”

Kaiya held up her hand. “Mai. Of course I’ll help. It’s not a big deal. I was actually going to ask you if you needed me. I wasn’t sure how much work you’ve got going on right now.”

“You are my hero.” Mai gave her friend a one-armed hug.

“Mmm. I thought that was the Mitsuhide guy. Didn’t he save you from Mr. Theater-Stabbity-Stab?” Asami glanced up from her phone.

Mai giggled. “He did! But I don’t see him here offering to help stitch beads and finish seams.”

Asami grinned back. “Yeah yeah. I see how it is. Anyway, I booked you for Wednesday afternoon. I’ll come get you.”

“Thanks.” Mai tried to sound certain, though she felt anything but. 

“And, I’ll come over and help with the sewing too. I can’t do much, but I can run deliveries or something, right?” Asami put the phone away and picked up her drink.

“You guys really are the best.” Mai finally relaxed and let herself imagine this wasn’t the disaster it felt like.

[aquagirl1978]

Can you make a headcanon for the Ikemen Sengoku guys getting jealous due to the MC like flirting with another man? Mainly, Ieyasu, Nobunaga, Masamune, Mitsuhide, Shingen and Kennyo's reactions?

Thank you for this request, anon. Hope you're having a great weekend!

IKEMEN SENGOKU HEADCANONS - JEALOUS WARLORDS (Ieyasu, Nobunaga, Masamune, Mitsuhide, Shingen, Kennyo)

Ieyasu Tokagawa

Did he notice you spending a bit too long chatting with that merchant? No, of course not - Ieyasu does not know feelings of jealousy. He sternly calls your name, stealing your attention from the merchant, reminding you of the schedule you need to adhere to. For the remainder of the shopping trip, he demands that you stay by his side so he can keep a close eye on you - there is no time to waste with worthless chatter.

Nobunaga Oda

How dare that man engage your attention, even for a fraction of a moment, during a party in Nobu's honor! He immediately calls over another servant, and asks her to take over tea service for you. Nobu sees you frown when your replacement informs you of what's going on. He waits for you to make eye contact before waving you over. To his side. Where you belong.

Masamune Date

Is that another man talking to his lass? His hand is on his sword in a gut reaction, he slows his steps down the hallway so as to not scare you by surprise. Is that your laughter he hears? His fingers tighten around the hilt of his sword, ready to bare his fangs and show this other guy who owns your heart. Masamune's face falls when he overhears the man say goodbye, his chance to fight for you love slowly walking away.

Mitsuhide Akechi

Little mouse, are you trying to get my attention by flirting with the merchant? His golden eyes glitter as he watches you discuss the different fabrics, your eyes lighting with a passion he so rarely sees outside of the bedroom. He is filled with curiosity as to what he could do in the bedroom to elicit a similar, passionate reaction from you later tonight. As soon as you are done with your purchase, Mitsuhide whispers to you that this shopping excursion is over, and it is time to return home.

Shingen Takeda

Shingen's brows furrow, his eyes darken as he watches you talk to the guest at the party. He notices your bright smile as you touch this man's arm. Confident that this is just an accidental touch, he continues to watch you as this man doesn't take his eyes off of you. Nor you he. Shingen strides over to you, a smile on his face, ready to introduce himself - as your lover. From there, he will keep a tight arm around your waist, not just to show everyone in attendance that you are spoken for, but because he just can't keep his hands off of you.

Kennyo

His eyes flicker from the flowers he is looking at - is that another man you are speaking to? He listens to you and hears the lilt in your voice - that beautiful, sweet voice that has so often comforted and calmed him, now being spoken to another man. He watched calmly as you engaged this other man in what sounded like innocent chatter. Kennyo smiled as you finished your conversation. His turn would come later that evening in the bedroom when he would make you sing his name. Over and over again.

[the12thnightproject]

This is my flash exchange gift for @venulus

Character: Mitsuhide (& most of the Azuchi warlords)

Prompt: Cold Hands/Warm Touches

Title: Snow Daze

Word Count: 700

Warnings: None

Even in winter, it rarely snows in Azuchi. Too warm. Too dry. So when an unseasonable cold spell married the gales of Lake Biwa and they birthed a knee-high accumulation of snow, everyone went a little crazy.

Is it a surprise that a suggestion of a snowball fight was met with cheers?

Is it a surprise that Hideyoshi forbade that dangerous activity?

Is it a surprise that his edict was ignored?

Finally, is it a surprise that this minor rebellion was instigated by Mitsuhide? True, nobody could prove he’d fired the first snowball, the one that hit Ranmaru. Had Mitsuhide realized that Ranmaru would immediately seek revenge? Even if he couldn’t predict what would happen next (and let’s be honest… he knew), he must have been aware that there would be snowballs lobbed in retaliation.

The next one hit Keiji.

He’d whooped in appreciation and pitched a Keiji-sized snowball at Masamune…

By the end of the first day of what would go down in history as the Great Fluff Campaign of ’83, everyone in Azuchi had been walloped at least once. Some more often than that. Some (Hideyoshi), after changing clothes three times in one afternoon, gave up on the idea of dryness entirely.

In this midst of these sneak attacks, Mitsuhide mysteriously avoided becoming a victim. It was almost unnatural, a maid remarked to Mai on Day Three of the siege, how he strode through the corridors, hair completely dry, crisp haori fluttering behind him, while everyone else (even Nobunaga) had telltale damp splotches on their clothes. “He must be a yokai! He shapeshifts out of the way as soon as he senses danger. I wonder if he shapeshifts other times, too?”

That… was something that Mai was also curious about, but it was further down on the list after, “can he really read minds?” “why does he tease me so much?” and “what would it be like to kiss-.” Never mind.

By the fifth day, when the storm showed no sign of stopping, she speculated that Mitsuhide was not only a yokai, but also one who could control the weather. What else would explain the fact that no matter how often the snow was trampled into the ground or hurled through the air, it always magically replenished itself overnight?

She might not have confronted him, had it not been for the fact that they lost Mitsunari in the snow for a day (Mitsunari was none the worse for his adventure, and hadn’t realized he was lost, but even Ieyasu had been worried). Determined to put a stop to the madness, she wrapped herself in her warmest cloak, marched over to Mitsuhide’s manor and pounded on the door.

Though she had practiced many speeches on her way over, Mai lost her train of thought when he opened the door, then stood smirking down at her. “Dear me, Mouse. To what do I owe the honor?”

She’d never seen him in his informal kimono before, and the sight of that deep v neck hovering open over his sculpted abs was … don’t go there. When she finally regained her voice, it was only to say, “Stop it.”

“I’m afraid you’ll need to be substantially less cryptic.” He stood aside as she stomped into his manor.

Mai waved her hand in the air. “The snow. Make it stop.”

“I’m flattered that you think it, but I cannot control the weather. Had I that ability, Nobunaga would have already unified Japan twice over.” He set a kettle on the irori. “Tea?”

She felt a bit silly as she watched him prepare tea like a perfectly normal human. Then he handed her a cup, his fingers touching hers. “Wait! Your hand is cold.” She sandwiched his fingers between hers. “You’ve been inside, just made tea, and your hands are cold.”

“My dear if you want to hold my hands, you only need to ask.” He picked up her other hand, and pressed both against his chest. “I am often cold. Would you be interested in warming me with your touch?”

She… was interested.

…

…

…

Later that afternoon, the snow turned to rain.

Everyone complained about the mud.

[eventinelysplayground]

A Visual Demonstration

Kinktober Day 4: Food Play|Biting/Marking

Pairing: Mitsuhide x Female Reader.

It's everyone's favorite kitsunes birthday today! To celebrate I swapped his place with someone else so that I could release his fic on his birthday (he's the only one though Comte is a close second). Mitsuhide has had enough of a Daimyos lack of sense when it comes to his attention towards you so he decides to 'show' him what he won't listen to. This fic is NSFW so minors do not interact. WC approx 1496.

The sun was setting it's colors blanketing the city in peace and and beauty but Mitsuhide was in a foul mood as he walked back to his manor after having left a most unpleasant council meeting

‘Daimyo Enomoto will be arriving tomorrow morning.’

‘On what excuse this time Hideyoshi?’

‘Well my Lord, something about the taxes in his region but…’

‘But we all know he's coming to see the lass again.’

Mitsuhide sighed, this daimyo was proving to be a bigger problem than he originally expected. He had happened to be introduced to you on one of his previous visits becoming quite smitten and he had been finding excuses to visit Azuchi more frequently ever since. The visit before this he had even lightly broached the subject about taking you as his wife with Nobunaga. When he was informed you were already promised to Mitsuhide he scoffed deeming Mitsuhide unworthy of the honor of having an Oda Princess for a bride, especially one so dear to Nobunaga himself.

Under normal circumstances this type of issue would have been stopped by now but the region Daimyo Enomoto ruled over was quite strategic and he was also an exceptional Lord beloved by his people so they were all trying not to make an enemy of him, plus the man seemed immune to sense in the matter. Mitsuhide wasn't worried though, he knew you loved only him but the Daimyos attention towards you had begun to overstep and his persistence was annoying.

“Welcome home my Lord, how was council?”

Mitsuhide said nothing to Kyubei as he continued walking.

“It went that well did it?”

There was a hint of humor in Kyubei’s voice, making Mitsuhide turn his head towards him.

“Daimyo Enomoto will be visiting Azu-”

Kyubei let out a groan.

“Again my Lord?”

“Unfortunately.”

“I would have thought Lord Nobunaga informing him of your arrangement would have stopped him.”

“The man seems incapable of listening when it com-”

Mitsuhide came to a sudden halt and Kyubei stopped at his side.

“My lord?”

Mitsuhide's eyes gleamed with mischief and a matching smile spread across his face.

“His ears may not work but his eyes do.”

Mitsuhide began his walk to your shared room again while Kyubei stayed where he was, he had served Mitsuhide long enough after all to know when he was plotting something.

Mitsuhide slipped silently into the room and quickly spotted you combing your hair. He knelt behind you wrapping his arms around your waist while whispering in your ear.

“I am home little one.”

“I see that, welcome back Mitsuhide.”

He leaned in towards you as you turned your head to face him and your lips met in a kiss then another and another.

“Mmm Mitsuhide.”

He felt you grow pliant under his kisses and he began to stroke one of his hands along your thigh. He deepened your kisses letting his tongue taste every inch of your mouth as his deft fingers untied you obi cord. He slid your kimono off your shoulders then slowly pushed you down against the mats without breaking your kiss. His hands began to roam along your body and his lips trailed down your neck.

As his lips reached your collarbone he began to suck hard on your velvety skin as his fingers teased your hardening nipples. Your body arched into him everywhere he touched and he reacted to your moans and gasps touching and nipping along your skin where he knew you were sensitive yet avoiding where you wanted to feel him most.

“Mi…tsuhide, stop ngh teasing me.”

He smiled against your skin as you squirmed and arched under him.

“I will happily give you what you crave but…”

“But?”

“In exchange-”

He ran his tongue along your nipple causing you to suck in a breath.

“I can do whatever I want to you.”

Mitsuhide was grinning like the sly kitsune he was as you nodded furiously at him.

“Whatever you want, I'm yours Mitsuhide.”

He leaned down to kiss you and you wrapped your arms around his neck pulling him closer. As the two of you kissed one of his hands moved down over your breast and stomach to your thigh and you opened your legs for him.

“You certainly are an eager little mouse.”

He rubbed his fingers over your clit and down your folds where they instantly became slick.

“My my, perhaps I've teased you too much?”

He was smirking at you as he easily slipped two of his fingers into you.

“Ahhh!”

As he worked his fingers in and out of you his teeth nipped at your collarbone hard followed by his tongue lapping at the marks he was leaving behind. He slipped a third finger inside you pushing and your hips began to move so that you were fucking yourself on them. His lips moved upwards biting and sucking all the way up your neck to just below your ear making sure he would leave marks that could not be hidden. He curled his fingers and your head fell back as you began to come undone.

“Mitsuhide!”

He felt your walls tighten around him and he rubbed over your clit with his thumb making you buck even more as you continued to ride out your high.

Slowly you came down from your peak and his lips returned to yours kissing you gently. He withdrew his fingers from your core and brushed your sweat-dampened bangs from your face as your breathing began to even out again. He moved himself on top of you and kissed you again, he could see how spent you already were however he had no intention of stopping now and he began kissing down your body towards your clit and you began to squirm under him.

“What are you doing?”

“Surely you can tell?”

“Well yes but, I'm still so sensitive.”

“That is fine.”

“But-”

“Have you forgotten what you said already little one, I can do whatever I want.”

He saw your eyes widen as you but your lip. He continued his path downwards and when his tongue licked over your sensitive nub you jerked while crying out.

“Mitsuhide!”

He stopped looking up at you from between your legs.

“My intentions are to tease you over and over again tonight so I suggest you pace yourself.”

He returned to running his tongue along you nub and he felt your fingers grip his hair.

“If you… ahhh… keep doing this I won't be…nngh…fit to be seen tomorrow, assuming…assuming I can even move…Mitsuhide!”

“Then you will be in exactly the state I want you in.”

He sucked on your clit raking his teeth gently along it and you moaned. Your hips were bucking against his tongue and he knew you were approaching what would be your second of many peaks tonight.

The next day some Hideyoshi and Masamune were waiting at the gates to greet Daimyo Enomoto.

“Wasn't Mitsuhide supposed to be here?”

“Yes.”

Hideyoshi was clearly annoyed at his absence.

“Well can't say I blame him for not showing up. Really we're lucky he hasn't tried anything with the way he's been going after the last.”

“If I know Mitsuhide he's just waiting for the perfect opportunity.”

The two didn't have to wait long for the Daimyo to arrive. They were in the middle of their greetings when Masamune spotted Mitsuhide, with his arm around you, approaching and he grinned.

“You're late.”

“My deepest apologies.”

Hideyoshi and Daimyo Enomoto’s attention was drawn towards the two of you and both their faces twisted into expressions of shock at the same time when they saw you. It looked like you could barely stand and you had bite marks and red blooms on the skin of your neck that your kimono didn't cover.

“I'm afraid we had a… busy night and overslept this morning.”

Hideyoshi and the Daimyo were still so stunned they couldn't speak but Masamune didn't have that problem.

“You look different today lass, have to say though that shade of red suits you.”

Masamune broke into a huge grin at the way you blushed and Mitsuhide couldn't help but smile.

“Doesn't she? Oh but-”

Mitsuhide trailed his fingers along a bare patch of your neck making you shiver.

“I seem to have missed a spot.”

His lips were on your neck and he was sucking at your skin before anyone quite realized what was happening.

“Alright that's enough! Keep it indoors you two, especially when we have guests!”

Mitsuhide released his lips from you and looked up to see a frowning Hideyoshi and a crushed Daimyo Enomoto.

“My apologies.”

“Just don't do it again. Daimyo Enomoto if you'll come with me to the audience chamber.”

“Oh, yes... of course.”

Hideyoshi held out his hand towards Azuchi castle and Daimyo Enomoto took off towards it with Hideyoshi following him, but not before he shook his head and glared at Mitsuhide and Masamune the former only shrugging and the later trying to desperately contain his laughter.

Tag List: @queengiuliettafirstlady, @nightghoul381, @oda-princess, @nani-nani-nani. If you would like to be added or removed either permanently or just for kinktober send me a msg. If I forgot anyone please msg me to let me know.

[writingwhimsey]

Second Chance Love- Ch. 9

Chapter 9

Ava had run blindly from the “exam” room. She didn’t pay attention to where she had run. She just ran until she just fell to her knees, having run out to the garden. She felt the tears falling down her cheeks.

She wasn’t sure how long she had been out there when she felt a hand on her back. “What are you doing out here, lass?”

Ava looked up to see Masamune kneeling down beside her, his one blue eye peering at her. She quickly wiped at her face. “Uhm…I just…”

Masamune gave her a smile and reached into a pocket, pulling out a handkerchief and handing it to her. “Here. Come on, let’s get you cleaned up and then you can come with me.”

“Thanks.” Ava said, taking the offered handkerchief and wiping her face. 

Once she was finished, Masamune was standing up, offering her his hand. “Come on.”

Ava placed her hand in his and allowed Masamune to help her up. “Where are we going?” She asked.

“The kitchen, of course.” Masamune answered, smiling at Ava. “I always find whatever troubles you have, seem smaller after having a good meal.”

“I…I don’t know if that will help…” Ava replied.

“Just come on.” Masamune replied. “Food always helps.”

It didn’t take long for the pair to reach the kitchen. Masamune pulled up a stool for Ava to sit down at the counter, while he got to work chopping and cooking. He’d occasionally hand Ava a bite to taste test the food.

“So, what had you crying in the garden?” Masamune asked.

“I…I had my first appointment with Akari.” Ava answered. “I was…I was okay…I mean…I wanted…he should have been there and I was starting to feel that…but then Mitsuhide showed up and he…he came with me.”

“Yeah? What else happened?” Masamune asked, stirring the food he had over the fire.

“Well…the appointment went fine.” Ava answered. “Akari said the baby and I are fine. Everything is progressing the way it’s supposed to…but then…then she mistook the situation.”

“Oh?” Masamune asked.

“Akari…she thought Mitsuhide…was the father.” Ava answered.

“And that upset you?” Masamune asked.

Ava nodded. “Yeah…I just…I’m always going to miss him.” She said. “But…it made me think at least I have memories of him. This baby…he or she won’t…he or she won’t know their father at all.”

Masamune set the spoon he was using to stir aside and moving the pot off the fire. He put a hand on her shoulder. “Ava, you really think any of us are going to let this baby grow up without knowing their father?” He asked. “We’ll all share our memories with the little one. Make sure he or she knows all about him. May not know him in the traditional sense, but this baby will know their father, I promise you that.”

Ava felt a pleasant warmth filling her chest. Sometimes it was easy for her to forget that she had the help of all the Oda. They would all help me raise this baby with Hideyoshi’s memory. Though that was only one of her problems. It didn’t completely dissolve the heaviness in her chest. “Thanks, Masamune.”

“Now, let’s get you a full belly.” He said, turning to the stew he had made and getting her a bowl.

Ava accepted the bowl and took a bite. It was warm and comforting. “It’s delicious, as always. Thanks Masamune.”

Masamune eyed her. “What else is on your mind, lass?”

“What do you mean?” Ava asked.

“Ava, there’s something else wrong.” Masamune said. “I may only have one eye, but I can see pretty clearly from it.”

“It’s…I feel guilty.” Ava answered.

“What do you mean?”

“For leaning on Mitsuhide so much.” Ava answered. “So much that…my midwife thought he was…”

“Ava, there’s nothing wrong with leaning on the people who care about you.” Masamune told her. “Hideyoshi wouldn’t want you closing yourself off to everyone just because he’s not here. You’re not doing anything wrong by taking comfort from the people around you.”

“Even if…other people might get the wrong idea?” Ava asked.

“Lass, it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks. You lost someone important to you and now you’re having a baby. Mitsuhide has been helping you. I don’t see anything wrong with that.” Masamune told her. 

“You…don’t think there’s anything wrong with it?” Ava asked.

“Would you be feeling guilty if Akari hadn’t mistaken Mitsuhide for the father?”

“Well…probably not.” Ava admitted. “I mean, Mitsuhide is my friend.”

Masamune had to fight off a smirk. “You finding comfort in me and my food?” He asked.

“Well…yeah. In this moment.” Ava admitted.

“You don’t think anything is wrong with it do you? Friends helping friends.” Masamune said. “And I mean I have flirted with you a bunch in the past.”

A small laugh escaped Ava’s lips at that comment. Masamune was always flirting and joking like that. Even when it had been clear she’d fallen for Hideyoshi. “Well…when you put it like that you do have a point.”

“Listen, you just do whatever you need to do to feel like you again.” Masamune told her. “We’re all here for you and your little one. Maybe we’ll all get mistaken for the father, huh?”

Ava let out a small laugh and shook her head. “You can all be the fun uncles.”

“That’s the spirit, lass.” Masamune said. “Except for Ieyasu. He’s too much of a sourpuss to be fun.”

Ava finished up the food Masamune had made and chatted with him for a bit longer before heading out. She felt a bit lighter having talked to him. She wasn’t in this alone. She had a lot of people who cared about her and her unborn baby.

“There you are, little mouse.”

Ava saw Mitsuhide up ahead of her. “Oh…were you looking for me?” She asked. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to worry you.”

“It’s alright.” Mitsuhide replied, walking towards her. “Are YOU alright?”

Ava nodded. “Yeah…Masamune found me and took me into the kitchen to make me some food and chat.”

“I see.” Mitsuhide replied, his amber eyes scanning her features. He was making a mental note to talk to Masamune later.

“Thank you…for coming with me to the appointment…and for everything you’ve been doing for me.” Ava told him.

“It is no trouble, little mouse.” Mitsuhide said. “Though, it sounds like you are thanking me because you’re going to ask me to stop.”

Ava shook her head. “No…there’s a part of me that thinks I should…but I’m not strong enough to listen to that part of me.” She admitted. “Plus…after talking with Masamune…I realized it’s okay for me to lean on the people around me…and you’ve been the most comforting and supportive…I just want to ask you…if I could continue to lean on you?”

Mitsuhide felt his heartbeat picking up. He hadn’t been expecting this at all. Not after the way she had run out like that. Just what did you say to her, Masamune? Mitsuhide thought. It was at this moment, Mitsuhide realized he was taking too long to respond to Ava. It’s not often anyone made him speechless. He mentally shook himself.

“Of course, little mouse.” He told her, giving her a surprisingly gentle smile. Whatever you need. I am here.

“Thank you.” Ava said, smiling up at him…the smile, quite warm. Perhaps she was healing after all. 

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