#yoshitsune chapter 26 main story translation

[aishangotome]

Minamoto no Yoshitsune: Ending 2 (Love)

Chapter 26

♡———♡

One month after arriving at the rebel army's residence...

I was walking down the hallway with Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoshitsune: You seem happy.

Yoshitsune-sama questioned me as I walked lightly with a smile on my face.

--CHOICES--

Do you know why?

I've gotten a bit too excited

That's not true

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

Yoshino: Do you know why?

Yoshitsune: Because you are an honest person.

Yoshitsune: I find those aspects of you endearing as well.

(Being told that makes me a little embarrassed...)

Yoshino: It's because today is a rendezvous with Yoshitsune-sama.

(I've been looking forward to it.)

Ever since the great war ended and I started living in Hiraizumi,

This is actually the first time we've gone out together like this.

Yoshitsune: I must have made you feel lonely.

(I was lonely, but...)

Yoshino: Please don't apologize. Yoshitsune-sama is doing important work.

By gaining autonomy for Hiraizumi,

Yoshitsune-sama and the others have been working hard every day to rebuild relations with neighboring countries.

Yoshino: Thank you for your hard work in meetings with other countries every day.

Yoshino: Thanks to that, the foundation has finally settled down.

Yoshitsune: I'm not as good as Yoritomo-sama, but if it's for the country, I don't mind doing things I'm not used to.

(Yoshitsune-sama seems to have grown a bit.)

Yoshitsune-sama, who was a general who cut through the front lines with absolute power like a storm,

Is now trying to lead the people of Hiraizumi from a different perspective.

(I'm sure I'm the one who sees Yoshitsune-sama changing the most.)

And, in the midst of such busy days, Yoshitsune-sama made time for me like this.

I'm more than happy for that thought, and my heart is pounding.

Just then, I heard footsteps from the other side of the hallway...

Yoichi: Yoshitsune-sama and Yoshino, isn't it?

Yoichi-san and Benkei-san stopped in front of us.

Yoshino: Hello! Yoichi-san, Benkei-san.

Benkei: Ah.

Yoichi: I was just looking for Yoshino.

Yoichi: I'm running out of the medicine you gave me before. Can you prepare some more?

Yoshino: Okay, that medicine then.

Yoshino: If there's anything else you need, I'll prepare it together, so don't hesitate to ask.

Yoichi: That would be helpful.

Yoichi: Your medicine works so well that it's rumored in town.

(Eh, there's such a rumor?)

Yoshitsune: As expected of Yoshino.

Yoshitsune: I was surprised when you first said you wanted to work as a pharmacist in Hiraizumi.

Yoshino: It's thanks to Yoshitsune-sama's support.

I remember when I asked Yoshitsune-sama shortly after arriving in Hiraizumi.

*earlier*

Yoshitsune: You want to open your own shop?

Yoshino: Yes. Actually, I visited Kamakura for that purpose.

Yoshitsune: Ah. That night, you were caught up in the conflict between me and Yoritomo-sama.

Yoshitsune: But if you stay here, you won't have to live an uncomfortable life.

Yoshitsune: You don't need to work, do you?

Yoshino: I appreciate your concern, but...

Yoshino: I can't relax if I'm just being pampered, and it was my dream to become independent as a pharmacist.

Yoshitsune: I see.

Yoshitsune: Then, of course, I will support you. Your precious dream.

*back to present*

(Thanks to Yoshitsune-sama making various arrangements, I was able to continue running my shop smoothly even in an unfamiliar place.)

Benkei: .....

(...... Hmm?)

Feeling a strong gaze, I looked up and met Benkei-san's eyes.

(I feel like I'm being stared at a lot...)

(Lately, I often feel Benkei-san's gaze, but did I do something?)

Actually, unlike Yoichi-san and the others, I haven't talked to Benkei-san much.

(Benkei-san has also been busy since the war ended, so there was no opportunity to talk.)

Benkei: ––I heard you're giving medicine and treating the soldiers who were injured in the forge.

Yoshino: Y-yes.

I'm a little nervous being looked down at by the tall Benkei-san.

Benkei: Isn't it difficult, even though they were your opponents on the battlefield?

Yoshino: It was certainly awkward at first...

Yoshino: Rather, I feel like we've been getting closer little by little through work.

Now, even when I'm alone, I'm able to talk to the vassals.

Benkei: Is that so?

Benkei-san folds his arms as if thinking about something.

(Maybe he's still wary of me...)

Yoichi: Hey, why the scary face, Benkei? You're scaring Yoshino.

Yoichi-san slapped Benkei-san on the back.

Benkei: This is my normal face. Sorry.

Yoichi: No problem, but if you have something to say, say it properly.

Benkei-san frowns and turns to me.

Benkei: Hey.

Yoshino: Y-yes!

(I wonder what he's going to say...)

Benkei: Do you like sweets?

Yoshino: I do, but...

Benkei: Then, I'll give you this.

I receive the jubako box that was suddenly thrust at me.

When I opened it curiously....

(Wow, it's dango!)

I was captivated by the dango covered in plenty of honey.

Yoshino: It looks delicious! Can I really have it?

Benkei: Yeah.

Yoshino: Thank you very much!

(But why me?)

As I tilted my head, Yoichi-san and Yoshitsune-sama peered into the jubako box.

Yoichi: Oh, this is the one I was fed so many prototypes of.

Yoshitsune: I haven't eaten it.

Benkei: I can't use Yoshitsune-sama as a guinea pig.

Yoichi: So it's okay for me... Well, it was delicious, so it's fine.

(Prototypes and guinea pigs...)

Yoshino: Could it be that you made this, Benkei-san!?

Benkei: ...What? It's not that surprising.

(Come to think of it, Yoichi-san and the others said that the snacks Benkei-san makes are delicious.)

Yoshino: You're good at cooking.

Benkei: It's nothing special.

Benkei: If you want more, I'll feed you as much as you want, so don't hesitate to ask.

(Amazing...!)

Yoichi: Glad to hear that, Benkei? You were jealous that Yoshino and I were close.

(Eh?)

Yoshitsune: Is that so, Benkei?

Benkei: Well...

Benkei-san cleared his throat, looking a little awkward.

Yoichi: You were the only one he hadn't talked to at all.

Yoichi: Well, Yoichi-san is on good terms with Yoshino, you know?

Benkei: Shut up, Yoichi. Don't brag.

Benkei: Unlike you and Kurama, I was a hostage in Kamakura.

Benkei: There was no time to get close, was there?

(I didn't know Benkei-san felt that way...!)

Yoshino: I would be happy to get to know Benkei-san better.

(Because Benkei-san is also an important person to Yoshitsune-sama.)

Precisely because I know he is a person whose loyalty and way of life I can respect,

I'm touched to be accepted.

Benkei: I see. Thank you.

Yoshino: But why do you say that?

Benkei: I always thought of you as an enemy...

Benkei: It's not something that can be done easily, for a mere woman to go to the battlefield and confront the enemy head-on.

Benkei: Besides...

Benkei-san's eyes turned to Yoshitsune-sama.

Benkei: More than anything, you changed Yoshitsune-sama.

Benkei: I can't not acknowledge someone like that.

Yoshitsune: ....Benkei.

(... Benkei-san is the one who saw Yoshitsune-sama heading towards destruction up close.)

Before, Yoichi-san showed me Benkei-san's death poem.

**flashback**

Yoshino: Rokudou no, michi no chimata ni mate yo kimi… Okure sakidatsu, narai aritomo…

Yoichi: “Wait for me on the road to the other world… Even if we go in different order, it’s a custom…”

Yoichi: Damn it… It’s funny that a guy like him, with that kind of face, is such a lonely person.

**flashback over**

(Perhaps because he was the one who decided to accompany Yoshitsune-sama to the end,)

(He may have been happy to know the changed Yoshitsune-sama.)

Benkei: Besides, she's the woman Yoshitsune-sama has acknowledged as his partner. It would be a lie to say I'm not interested.

Yoshino: ...Thank you very much.

My chest tightened and warmth welled up.

Yoshino: I look forward to working with you! Benkei-san.

Benkei: Stop with the "Benkei-san," will you? It me uncomfortable.

Yoshino: Eh?

Benkei: You're a comrade now, so talk to me more casually.

(... Is that okay?)

Yoshino: Well then, um... Nice to meet you again, Benkei.

Benkei: Yeah. Same here.

Benkei nods in satisfaction.

Yoshitsune-sama, who was watching, also smiled beautifully.

Yoshitsune: I'm happy that you two are getting along.

Yoshitsune: You are all very special to me.

(So dazzling.)

Benkei and Yoichi: ...........

Yoshitsune-sama's smile, as if transparent in the sunlight.

Benkei and Yoichi-san seemed to be at a loss for words for a moment.

Yoichi: Lately, our general has been getting better and better at being a natural airhead, hasn't he?

Benkei: I agree.

(It's true that Yoshitsune-sama didn't make that kind of expression before.)

Yoshitsune: ...? What are you talking about?

Yoshitsune-sama tilts his head at the two whispering in low voices.

(Yoshitsune-sama is truly loved, isn't he?)

Benkei: It's nothing, Yoshitsune-sama.

Benkei replied, trying to cover up, and turned to me.

Benkei: Well then, Yoshino. Please take care of Yoshitsune-sama from now on.

Yoshino: Yes! I'll do my best in everything I can.

Benkei: Yeah. That's the spirit.

Yoshitsune: Wait, Benkei. I don't want to force her to do anything...

Benkei put both hands on my shoulders with such force that it almost shook off Yoshitsune-sama's restraint.

Benkei: Yoshitsune-sama is a heavy sleeper, and if left alone, he won't eat his vegetables.

Yoshino: Huh? Heavy sleeper? Vegetables?

Benkei: Yeah. His lifestyle is a bit precarious, so you, the closest person to him, need to be careful.

Yoichi: Hey, are you his mother!?

Benkei: Shut up, Yoichi. Yoshitsune-sama might listen to what the woman he loves says.

Benkei: After all, we need Yoshitsune-sama to be healthy from now on.

(He really is like a mother when it comes to worrying!)

His serious expression throughout conveys that Benkei-san is serious about this.

(But it's true that Yoshitsune-sama is a bit of a recluse, so I understand Benkei's concern.)

(I also want Yoshitsune-sama to stay healthy.)

Yoshino: I understand, Benkei. I'll try to be careful too.

Yoshino: Next time, please tell me more about Yoshitsune-sama.

Benkei: Leave it to me.

Yoichi: Oh, you're getting along unexpectedly well.

Yoshitsune: ...I did say I wanted you to get along, but this is a little unexpected.

(Wah!)

Yoshitsune-sama separates me and Benkei.

Yoshitsune: Benkei. Don't put strange ideas into Yoshino's head.

Benkei: I'll do my best.

Benkei replied with a grin.

Yoshitsune-sama then took my hand.

Yoshitsune: Shall we go then?

Yoshino: Yes!

Yoichi: Ah, you were going out, weren't you? Sorry for holding you up.

Benkei: Take care.

Yoshitsune: Yeah. We'll be back.

Yoshino: See you later, you two.

We were seen off by the two and left the residence.

-

(The weather is nice, it feels good.)

We left the residence and were walking through the forest on the outskirts of town.

The cute chirping of the birds and the sound of the leaves rustling in the wind were pleasant, and I took a deep breath.

Yoshino: You took me out for a horseback ride once before, didn't you?

Yoshitsune: Yes. You were a hostage then.

Yoshitsune: It hasn't been that long, but our feelings and relationship have changed.

Yoshino: ...Yes.

(At that time, I wasn't aware that I was in love with Yoshitsune-sama yet.)

But somewhere in my heart, I was concerned about him.

Yoshino: I never thought the day would come when I could meet Yoshitsune-sama like this, alone, under the light.

Yoshitsune: Me neither.

Yoshitsune: I never dreamed that you would become a beloved existence...

Yoshitsune: I never dreamed that the day would come when I could be in love with you.

Yoshino: Yoshitsune-sama...

There was an invisible wall between us.

It was so thick, I sometimes thought it couldn't be broken.

(But, now I can be here with you, Yoshitsune-sama)

I stop beside him, resting in the shade of a tree.

Yoshitsune: But, you are a strong person, aren't you?

Yoshino: Huh?

Yoshitsune: In Hiraizumi, which should have been enemy territory for you, you were quickly accepted by those around you.

Yoshitsune: I find Yoshino dazzling.

(That's...)

I widen my eyes and gaze at Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoshino: Then, it's the same for me.

Yoshitsune: The same?

Yoshino: Because every day, I also find you dazzling, seeing you try to change for the people of Hiraizumi.

Yoshitsune: ...Yoshino.

Yoshitsune-sama says my name as if savoring it.

Yoshitsune: I am happy.

Yoshitsune: So happy that I sometimes wonder if it's a dream.

(We were enemies for so long...)

(I know that this moment is made possible by countless miracles.)

Noticing the sadness in Yoshitsune-sama's eyes, my heart aches sweetly.

I squeeze Yoshitsune-sama's hand tightly.

Yoshitsune: ...

Yoshino: How about this?

Yoshino: Every time you think it might be a dream, I will hold your hand again and again.

(Because I want to confirm with you that this warmth is not a lie.)

Yoshitsune: --That seems a little insufficient.

Yoshitsune: I've recently realized that I become terribly selfish when it comes to you.

Yoshitsune-sama smiles, lowers his eyelashes, and his face draws closer--

(Hm...)

Our lips gently met.

We exchanged light kisses several times, and then he softly parted my lips.

Yoshino: Hm...nn...

His tongue tickles the inside of my mouth, as if searching for my weak spot.

(...dizzy...)

My breath escapes between kisses, sounding fleeting.

Eventually, our lips part, as if reluctant to end.

Yoshino: Yoshitsune...sama...

I'm drawn into the depths of his amethyst eyes, and all I can see is Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoshitsune: Holding Yoshino's hand, kissing her, touching her completely...

Yoshitsune: Yet my heart still yearns for you.

(Ah...)

Yoshitsune-sama pulls me closer, his lips brushing against my hair.

He kisses my cheek... and we both instinctively press our bodies together.

Yoshitsune: In return, what can I do for you?

Yoshitsune: I will grant any wish, so please tell me.

(Yoshitsune-sama's love is... endlessly deep.)

Smiling, I speak from my heart.

Yoshino: I only have one wish.

Yoshino: ...Please stay by my side forever.

Yoshino: With just that, I can do anything.

Yoshitsune: Yoshino.

Yoshitsune: ...I cannot compete with you.

Yoshitsune-sama takes a faint breath, a smile gracing his lips.

Yoshitsune: For example, if you wished it,

Yoshitsune: I wouldn't hesitate to throw myself into endless battles and be burned by hellfire.

Yoshitsune: But you smile and ask me to stay by your side.

Yoshitsune: Without even knowing how happy that makes me.

Yoshino: Yoshitsune-sama...

Yoshitsune: I swear on my life,

Yoshitsune: I will never let go of this hand.

Strength is poured into our joined hands.

Yoshitsune: If hardships come during our long journey...

Yoshitsune: I will hold your hand with one hand and protect you with the other.

Yoshino: ...Thank you, Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoshino: I want to protect you too.

Yoshitsune: Thank you, Yoshino.

(Loved by Yoshitsune-sama, I am the happiest person in the world.)

In the sunlight filtering through the trees, we exchange another kiss.

(I will walk hand in hand with you.)

So that even in the deepest darkness, we will not lose our way.

--To laugh together like this, in the light.

FIN

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.

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Ending 1 (Love) | Return to IkeGen Masterlist

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[archiveikemen]

Minamoto no Yoshitsune Main Story

This is a fan-made translation solely for entertainment purposes with no guaranteed perfection; expect mistakes, grammatical errors, and some creative liberties. All original content and media used belongs to Cybird. Please support the game by buying their stories and playing their games. Reblogs appreciated.

Read this before interacting

Chapter 1┊Chapter 2

Chapter 3┊Chapter 4

Chapter 5 – Premium Story┊Chapter 6 – Letter

Chapter 7┊Chapter 8

Chapter 9┊Chapter 10 – Premium Story

Chapter 11 – Letter┊Chapter 12

Chapter 13 – Letter┊Chapter 14

Chapter 15 – Premium Story┊Chapter 16

Chapter 17┊Chapter 18

Chapter 19┊Chapter 20 – Avatar Challenge

Chapter 21┊Chapter 22

Chapter 23 — Letter┊Chapter 24

Chapter 25 – Avatar Challenge┊Chapter 26

Being Loved END / Loving You END

[aishangotome]

Minamoto no Yoshitsune: Chapter 26

Chapter 25 Premium Story

♡———♡

The soft morning light brushed against my face, and my consciousness slowly surfaced.

Yoshino: ... Mm...

(It's warm...)

As I kept my eyes closed, entrusting myself to the pleasant warmth,

???: Aren't you going to wake up?

I sensed someone laughing softly by my ear.

As if guided, I opened my eyes--

Yoshitsune: Good morning, Yoshino.

Yoshitsune-sama's face was so close, our noses almost touched.

Yoshino: Huh...? Yoshitsune-sama...

(Why is Yoshitsune-sama...?)

My head is hazy and not working properly.

Yoshitsune: You seem sleepy.

Yoshitsune-sama smiled at the corner of his lips and tucked my hair behind my ear.

Yoshitsune: You fell asleep at dawn, so it's no wonder.

Yoshino: Dawn...?

Yoshitsune: Yes. A lot happened yesterday, and I wanted you to rest early, but...

Yoshitsune: When I'm in front of you, I can't seem to control myself.

Yoshino: ...

Yoshitsune: It's not bad to save the fun for later.

Yoshitsune-sama gave me one last kiss and released me from his arms.

Yoshitsune: Get dressed.

Yoshino: ...Yes.

Seeing me still limp and weak, Yoshitsune-sama chuckled softly again.

Yoshitsune: If you wish, I'll help you get dressed.

Yoshino: ...! No, it's okay. I can get dressed myself.

Yoshitsune: That's too bad. It would be fun to serve you, even if I'm inexperienced.

Yoshino: If you do anything more new to me, my body won't be able to take it...

Yoshitsune: Then I'll save it for next time.

(His eyes are serious...!)

I start getting dressed before Yoshitsune-sama changes his mind.

After a while, when we're both ready...

Yoshitsune: We'll leave for Hiraizumi at noon. You should take care of any business you have.

Yoshino: In that case...

(There's something I've been thinking about ever since it was decided we're going to Hiraizumi.)

I straighten my posture and open my mouth.

Yoshino: Yoshitsune-sama, I have a request.

And, a moment later---...

-

Yoshino: Tamamo!

I came to the shogunate's camp.

Tamamo: Oh, if it isn't Yoshino.

Shigehira: Why are you here? I heard you went to the rebel army as a spoil of war.

As if hearing Tamamo and Shigehira's voices, Kagetoki and Morinaga came next.

Kagetoki: What's with all the commotion?

Morinaga: Hey, you're...

Yoritomo: Yoshino?

Yoritomo-sama, who walked up last, grinned when he saw me.

Yoritomo: What, you've already gotten tired of him and come back?

Yoshino: N-No, that's not it.

Yoshino: I wanted to say goodbye to everyone, so I asked Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoritomo: Oh really? He gave you permission?

(What's this?)

I tilt my head as Yoritomo-sama stares intently at me.

Yoritomo: This is enemy territory, even if it's a truce.

Yoritomo: I can't imagine Yoshitsune giving permission so easily.

Yoshino: Yes. As you said, Yoritomo-sama, he initially refused.

(But...)

The exchange I had with Yoshitsune-sama flashes through my mind.

*earlier*

Yoshitsune: I don't think Yoritomo-sama will do anything to you now.

Yoshitsune: But to be honest, I don't want you to go.

Yoshitsune: However, now that the truce has been established, what I value most is your own free will.

Yoshitsune: Go and say goodbye to your friends, Yoshino.

*present*

Yoshino: Even so, Yoshitsune-sama listened to my feelings and gave me permission.

Yoshino: I'm so happy because I wanted to thank and say goodbye to everyone myself.

(Yoshitsune-sama truly understands my feelings...)

Yoritomo: Huh, so he accepted it, even though he never bends his own will.

Tamamo: He must be that smitten with Yoshino.

Tamamo: To capture the enemy's general, as expected of the woman I made a pact with.

Tamamo puffed up his chest proudly.

Yoshino: Come on... It's not like that.

I change the subject, a little embarrassed.

Yoshino: Oh, by the way, I heard from Yoritomo-sama...

Yoshino: Tamamo, you're staying with the shogunate, right?

Tamamo: Well, yeah. I've grown quite fond of life in Kamakura.

Tamamo: And the shogunate too. So I'll cooperate with them for a while.

(It seems like he has his favorite shops and many acquaintances here.)

(Tamamo cares about Kamakura in his own way.)

Tamamo: I'm saying I'll lend you my power. You should feel honored, you know?

Kagetoki: Considering your abilities are usually wasted on pointless pranks,

Kagetoki: We should be grateful that you're putting them to good use.

Tamamo: Good grief. Kagetoki, with your glasses, you're good at sophistry, it's troublesome.

Kagetoki: I fail to see the causal relationship with my glasses.

(These two are the same as always.)

Tamamo: We've gotten off topic...

Tamamo: As you've heard, I'll be working with you to take away the cursed power of ayakashi from now on.

Tamamo: Yoshino, we'll meet again soon.

Tamamo: I'm looking forward to it.

Yoshino: Yeah! I look forward to working with you too.

Following Tamamo, Kagetoki spoke up.

Kagetoki: No matter the reason, it's still the enemy's camp.

Kagetoki: A normal person would be intimidated...

Kagetoki: But you're thick-skinned enough to volunteer as a hostage, so I'm sure there won't be a problem.

(Was that... encouragement?)

Kagetoki is strict, but he's actually a kind person.

(Even when I worked with him, his words were harsh, but he never scolded me unfairly.)

Yoshino: Yes, thank you!

Shigehira: I thought this when you were helping Kagetoki too, but you always choose the path with more hardships.

Yoshino: Um... Is that so?

Shigehira: Well, in that case, you should be as happy as you can.

Yoshino: Shigehira...

Morinaga: Shigehira is being unusually honest. Good boy, good boy.

As if he was about to be patted on the head, Shigehira shook off Morinaga's hand.

Shigehira: Hey, don't tease me!

Tamamo: It's perfectly natural to want to tease someone who reacts so well.

I smile at their usual exchange.

(It's a little sad to think this will be the last time...)

I gently suppress the welling emotions in my heart.

Morinaga: Yoshino, when you asked us to save Yoshitsune-sama's life, I honestly didn't know what would happen.

Morinaga: Like Yoritomo-sama said, he's not someone you can beat without trying your best.

Morinaga: No matter what happened, it was obvious you'd get hurt.

Yoshino: Yes...

Morinaga: But I'm glad you were able to achieve your wish.

Yoritomo: Still, the path you're taking is a thorny one. You'll face hardships from now on.

Yoshino: ...Yes.

(But, I made a promise with Yoshitsune-sama.)

**flashback**

Yoshitsune: If I see you suffering, Yoshino, I won't be able to stay calm.

Yoshitsune: But I won't give up on our future.

Yoshino: Me neither.

Yoshino: Today's battle taught me that even the deepest hatred doesn't necessarily last forever...

Yoshitsune: ...Yoshino.

Yoshino: Just as you wish for the happiness of everyone in Hiraizumi...

Yoshino: I'll continue to wish for the day when the feud between the shogunate and the rebel army completely melts away.

**flashback over**

(As long as I have this promise, there's nothing to be afraid of.)

Yoshino: Thank you for your concern.

Yoshino: But I'll be fine.

I face forward and continue speaking.

Yoshino: No matter how difficult and painful things get, I'll keep searching for the path that leads to the future.

Yoshino: Together with Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoritomo: I see.

(Ah...)

Despite his sarcastic tone, there was no usual venom in the smile that appeared at the corner of his lips.

I blink as the image of Yoshitsune-sama smiling faintly overlaps with Yoritomo-sama.

Yoritomo: As expected of the one who defied me.

Yoritomo: ---That's why you were able to keep him in this world.

Yoshino: Huh?

Yoritomo: It's nothing.

Yoritomo: Don't come back so soon just because you can't fit in.

Yoshino: I'll do my best!

(From now on, I'll take a new step forward with Yoshitsune-sama.)

Yoshino: Everyone...

I straighten my posture and bow deeply.

Yoshino: Thank you for everything!

Yoritomo: Yeah.

Tamamo: Take care, Yoshino.

When I looked up, everyone was smiling.

(...I'll smile until the end too....)

Holding back the tears that threatened to spill, I left the place with a big smile on my face.

After leaving the shogunate's camp, I--...

-

Since there was still time before departure, I came to the back of the rebel army's camp to gather herbs.

(We used up a lot of medicine in yesterday's battle, so I need to restock.)

As I was searching for herbs, a black feather gently fell in front of me.

(Ah)

Kurama: What, it's you.

Yoshino: Kurama!

Kurama, who had been flying in the sky, landed near me.

Yoshino: When I returned to camp earlier, Benkei was looking for you.

Kurama: If I go back, I'll be forced to help with the aftermath of the battle.

Kurama: There's no need for me to do something like that.

(So you ran away because you didn't want to do it? That's so like you, Kurama.)

(Speaking of which...)

(You said you were reluctant about this truce until the very end, right?)

I understand why, since you've wanted to fight Tamamo since we met.

(But...)

Yoshino: Hey, Kurama.

Yoshino: You made a promise to receive Yoshitsune-sama's soul after he dies, right?

Kurama: That's right. This time it ended with a boring result.

Kurama: I thought I could finally fight Tamamo and maybe get Yoshitsune's soul...

Kurama: But after you came to Hiraizumi, everything went crazy.

I meet his sharp gaze head-on.

Yoshino: I'm... sorry about that.

(It's true that I interfered with your wish, your promise.)

Yoshino: But I'm truly glad I was able to stop Yoshitsune-sama's downfall.

Yoshino: I was able to do that thanks to everyone in the shogunate, Yoichi, Benkei, and you, Kurama.

(In the end, you cooperated with the shogunate until the very end.)

(You didn't have to do that if all you wanted was Yoshitsune-sama's soul.)

(I don't know how you felt about participating in the battle, but...)

Yoshino: Thank you, Kurama.

Yoshino: I'm glad you're Yoshitsune-sama's friend.

Kurama: ...

When I gave him a heartfelt smile, Kurama narrowed his eyes as if dazzled.

Yoshino: ...Hey, Kurama.

(After I fell in love with Yoshitsune-sama,)

(After I made a promise for the future with Yoshitsune-sama, there's something I've been keeping in my heart.)

Yoshino: When I die, would you take my soul too?

Kurama: What?

Yoshino: Because I want to be with Yoshitsune-sama until the very end.

Yoshino: My soul probably won't be enough for you, Kurama.

Kurama: ..........

Kurama closed his eyes as if pondering...

Kurama: I don't need it.

He said so.

Yoshino: Huh...?

Kurama: I don't need your soul, nor do I need Yoshitsune's soul, softened by trusting a woman like you.

Yoshino: But you made a pact to get Yoshitsune-sama's soul...

Kurama: You're a noisy little girl. I can get or throw away what's mine as I please.

(...!)

As if to interrupt my words, Kurama's fingertips touched my cheek.

Kurama: It makes me angry.

(Kurama...?)

My chest tightens as he looks at me with a somewhat pained expression.

(Why are you making that face?)

Kurama: .....

Yoshino: Kurama!

Kurama spread his black wings without a word and flew away.

(He's gone...)

The expression Kurama showed me last was burned into my eyes.

And before the sun rose completely, we departed--...

-

After several days, we returned to Hiraizumi.

(From today, I'll be staying in this mansion again.)

I was a hostage back then, but this time my position is different.

(Before, the vassals were hostile towards me until the end,)

(I hope we can become friends little by little.)

Yoichi: Haa, we finally made it.

Yoichi: I want to soak in the hidden hot spring and take a nap.

Benkei: What are you talking about? We have a mountain of things to do.

Yoichi: I know, I know. It was just a joke.

Yoshitsune: Knowing Yoichi, he might actually do it.

Yoichi: Whoa, Yoshitsune-sama, you're saying that too? Yoichi is sad.

Kurama: Nonsense.

Kurama walked briskly into the mansion.

Benkei: Hey, let's go too.

Yoichi: Well then, let's get this work done quickly.

Following them, the two also disappeared into the mansion.

Yoshitsune: Yoshino.

Yoshitsune-sama turned around and held out his hand to me.

I placed my hand on top of Yoshitsune-sama's.

Yoshitsune: I've always thought your hands are beautiful.

Yoshino: No way...

Due to tightly gripping the reins during the battle, I even have calluses on my palms.

(They can't be called beautiful, even as a compliment.)

Yoshitsune: Your hands are for protecting and saving people.

Yoshitsune: They're the beautiful hands that led me out of the darkness.

Yoshitsune-sama's lips fell on the back of my hand.

Yoshitsune: I'm happy that I can hold your hands and walk into the future together.

(Yoshitsune-sama....)

I smiled at Yoshitsune-sama's words.

Yoshino: Together, we can surely go anywhere.

Yoshitsune: Yes. Shall we go then?

As if to confirm our feelings, we held hands and crossed the bridge.

And with hope for the future in our hearts, the days beyond the gate we passed through--...

FIN

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Ending 1 (Loved) | Ending 2 (Love)

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[archiveikemen]

Abe no Yasuchika Main Story: Chapter 26

This is a fan-made translation solely for entertainment purposes with no guaranteed perfection; expect mistakes, grammatical errors, and some creative liberties. All original content and media used belongs to Cybird. Please support the game by buying their stories and playing their games. Reblogs appreciated.

Read this before interacting┊aikm’s Genjiden Glossary

This happened a while ago…

It was right after Suzaku was exorcized and the peace in Kyōto was restored.

Yasuchika: — And so, the four gods agreed.

Yoritomo: Is that something you can just say so casually?

Yoshitsune: I sure witnessed some pretty amazing things back there but for some reason he sounds so unconvincing right now.

The Shogunate and Rebel Army shot astonished and exasperated gazes at Yasuchika-san as he passed his report.

(As always, there's amazingly little difference between being serious and his usual self.)

Tamamo: Anyway… it must've been hard on you, Yuno.

Tamamo: I admire your act of bravery towards the end.

Yuno: Thank you… Tamamo.

Shigehira: If you got your fox powers back, does that mean you regained your memories too?

Yuno: Yup. I’m grateful for your care and support throughout my period of memory loss.

(Thinking back, everyone here was really caring towards me.)

I bowed deeply to my fellow members of the Shogunate, and my silver hair swayed before my eyes.

Kagetoki: You got kidnapped but found a way to escape all by yourself, I must say you’re a rather amazing woman.

Morinaga: I know right? If Yuno were a warrior, she would've made tons of military feats by now.

Yuno: I just got lucky in my case… the truly amazing person here is Yasuchika-san.

Yoichi: Certainly. At first, I thought he had become an evil Onmyōji who practiced some shady magic… but in the end, he became an Onmyōji who was like a ray of hope. What a stark difference in character.

Benkei: I feel like we got manipulated by him… but ultimately, what matters most is that everyone on the battlefield was saved.

Sueharu: You got yourself the coolest part, huh.

Kurama: I’m sure Yasuchika is one hell of a powerful guy, but for some reason I don't feel like competing against him.

Yasuchika: You’re making me shy.

Kurama: That wasn't a compliment.

Ibuki: Come on now, don’t say that.

Ibuki: It's the first time in history that someone became a shikigami of the Four Gods.

Ibuki: You’ve become a legend, Yasuchika.

Yasuchika: Maybe I can finally defeat you.

Ibuki: I hate how you’re so obsessed with wanting to get rid of me.

Akihito-sama, who had been right next to Ibuki, shrugged his shoulders and stepped forward.

Akihito: I was so anxious, but anyway… I’m glad you’re safe, Yasuchika.

Yasuchika: — Akihito-sama.

(Akihito-sama must've been worried sick about Yasuchika-san the whole time.)

I could tell what they were both feeling from the way they were looking at each other.

Yasuchika: It was all thanks to you that I could accomplish my self-indulgent goal… thank you.

Akihito: Didn’t I tell you that it was my wish too?

Akihito: However, Yasuchika.

Akihito-sama’s smile vanished and the look in his eyes turned serious.

Akihito: The second promise you made was to not die… were you trying to break it?

Yasuchika: … Erm.

(Yasuchika-san nearly sacrificed his life to save mine and everyone else’s lives.)

(He didn't see himself being in the future he tried to create.)

Yasuchika: — I’m sorry, Akihito-sama.

After he bowed his head and sincerely apologised…

(Oh…)

Yasuchika-san suddenly took my hand.

Yasuchika: Yuno-san is the reason why I can still stand here.

Akihito: … I see.

Akihito-sama turned to me.

Akihito: Thank you, Yuno. For saving Yasuchika.

Akihito: And also— I would like to apologize to you on behalf of the Imperial Court. We have caused you a great deal of trouble.

(Akihito-sama…)

I was surprised by the unexpected apology, but I managed to give a response.

Yuno: I was actually the first one to be saved.

Yuno: And it was painful to be attacked after losing my memories, but…

Yuno: Similar to how the Shogunate and Rebel Army have their reasons to keep fighting, I understand that you and everyone else in the Imperial Court also had their own.

(I hope I have more opportunities to spend time with the Imperial Court in the future and get to know them better.)

Akihito: … I’m afraid I’m going to struggle to keep my head up in front of you from now on.

Yoritomo-sama spoke up after a while.

Yoritomo: So, Yasuchika. How do you intend to finish this up?

Yasuchika: Yeah about that…

Yasuchika: — I want to negotiate with you all.

Yasuchika-san looked at Akihito-sama.

Yasuchika: Akihito-sama, are you sure about this?

Akihito: Of course. I’ve already decided to let you make all the decisions related to this matter until the end.

Yasuchika: Thank you.

(I wonder what he’s going to negotiate about…)

Depending on the topic, the Shogunate and Rebel Army’s reactions may vary widely.

I anxiously watched the situation unfold.

Yasuchika: My request is… for everyone here to sign an agreement of nonaggression with the Imperial Court, even if it's only temporary.

Yoritomo: You were the one who broke the trust between the Shogunate and Imperial Court in the first place, were you not?

Yasuchika: That sounds weak.

Yoshitsune: We have no reason to attack the Imperial Court. But we would need some benefits if we were to promise complete nonaggression.

Yasuchika: You're absolutely correct. Therefore, I have a suggestion.

Yasuchika: Why don't we extend the truce between the Shogunate and Rebel Army for a while more?

(...!)

Not only me, but seemingly everyone in the room was shocked by his suggestion.

Yasuchika: When the two parties combined forces to save the civilians…

Yasuchika: Their soldiers must have lost their morale after witnessing those supernatural stuff like ayakashi and spirits.

Yasuchika: What I’m saying is, this war will have to start again from square one.

Kagetoki: Well I can’t say I disagree.

Benkei: It wouldn't do much good to order an attack at the moment either.

(I used my powers in front of the soldiers too… so I don't blame them for their confusion.)

Yasuchika: Both parties suffered significant damages to their forces during this war. Wouldn't it be most ideal to have more preparation time if you were to restart your war?

Yoshitsune: I hate to say it, but you have a point.

Yoritomo-sama shrugged his shoulders and agreed.

Yasuchika: Moreover… on top of me being blessed by the Four Gods, the Imperial Court has also become stronger.

Yasuchika: Doesn’t that mean we qualify as a third force apart from the Shogunate and Rebel Army?

(A third force…)

Yoritomo: What are you trying to say?

Yasuchika: The Shogunate and Rebel Army will have to be wary of our movements once the war is back on.

Yasuchika: A three-way war sounds tricky.

Yasuchika: Therefore, I believe that in order to avoid such a war… the Shogunate, Rebel Army, and Imperial Court should all come together and sign an agreement of nonaggression.

Yoritomo: But will it really go that smoothly?

Yoritomo-sama scoffed, like he was testing Yasuchika-san.

Yoritomo: The feud between me and Yoshitsune is far too complex.

Yoritomo: If the details of the agreement are not planned out carefully, it could do more harm than good.

Yasuchika: The Imperial Court will oversee all negotiations made between the Shogunate and Rebel Army.

Yasuchika: I kind of know both the Shogunate and Rebel Army to some extent, so I think it won't be hard for me to help establish a common ground.

(Amazing. Yasuchika-san isn't backing down even with Yoritomo-sama pressuring him.)

Yoritomo: — You imprudent man.

Yoritomo-sama thought about it for a while before speaking up again.

Yoritomo: The evacuated civilians witnessed the exorcism of Suzaku, and it didn't take long for word about the country's protector to spread all over Japan.

Yoritomo: Because of this, Yasuchika… it would be equivalent to disregarding the people’s feelings if we were to attack the Imperial Court.

(I see. That’s how influential Yasuchika-san has become.)

Yoritomo: Alright. The Shogunate will have a discussion amongst ourselves.

Yoritomo: What about you, Yoshitsune?

Yoshitsune: …

Yoshitsune: Yasuchika, I have a question.

Yasuchika: What is it?

Yoshitsune: What is the Imperial Court’s goal as a third force?

Yasuchika • Akihito: …

Yasuchika-san and Akihito-sama briefly exchanged looks.

Yasuchika: We will keep that question in mind and find an answer to it later. However…

Yasuchika: The Imperial Court will need some time to restructure ourselves after this incident.

Yasuchika: It appears that all the Onmyōji in the Onmyō Bureau have run away… so I think the restructuring will be rather large scale.

Akihito: I agree. If the Imperial Court is to become a central power, we must change the way we operate.

Akihito: During the ceasefire, we will strengthen our constituency and live up to the people's wishes…

Akihito: We shall embark on the right pathway to becoming an organization worthy of having Yasuchika, the country’s protector, as a part of us.

(The Imperial Court is going to change…)

My heart was pounding rapidly at the thought of the future being repainted to be so bright.

...

— There will be a quick meeting tomorrow to discuss the armistice.

The Shogunate and Rebel Army returned to their respective camps.

(Too many things happened today.)

When I was sitting near the bonfire at the Shogunate’s camp…

Yoritomo: Yuno.

Yuno: Ah… Yoritomo-sama!

(This scene has happened before.)

Yoritomo-sama approached and sat down right next to me.

Yuno: Has your meeting with Kagetoki-san and the others ended?

Yoritomo: Yeah. We discussed the main focus points of tomorrow's meeting.

Yuno: It’s already this late at night and you’re still hard at work.

(It must've been tough on him to have to command the war and evacuate civilians.)

Yoritomo: You're the one who worked the hardest.

Yoritomo: — I’m glad you got your memories back.

Yuno: … Yeah.

The two of us stared at the bonfire in silence for a brief moment.

Yuno: I’m sorry, Yoritomo-sama.

Yuno: Even after so much has happened… I still love Yasuchika-san.

(It hurt my heart so badly even though I couldn't remember why.)

Yoritomo: I know.

Yuno: Eh?

Yoritomo: You always did whatever you wished, even without your memories.

Yoritomo: Once the armistice is signed, it will mark an end to your job in the Shogunate.

Yoritomo: You have the right to choose what you want to do after that.

Yoritomo: But as for me…

Yoritomo-sama fidgeted with my hair using his fingertips.

Yoritomo: I feel that it's a pity to give you to Yasuchika.

Yuno: Yoritomo-sama…?

Yoritomo-sama removed his hand from my hair and gave me his usual haughty smile.

Yoritomo: The Kamakura Shogunate will always have a place for you.

Yoritomo: Remember that as you embark on your own journey.

Yuno: … Thank you, Yoritomo-sama.

(I’ll always be proud of the days I spent with the Shogunate.)

In the evening, six days later…

Yasuchika: Sorry I’m late, Yuno-san.

Yuno: Ah, no worries. I was busy treating the wounded as well.

I met Yasuchika-san by the lake.

Yuno: The final meeting ended today, right?

Yasuchika: Yeah. It took quite a while, but the Shogunate and Rebel Army finally had an agreement.

(That's great to know.)

We sat side by side under a shady tree, feeling the cool lakeside breeze.

Yuno: We’re going to have peace for a while.

Yasuchika: It feels strange knowing that all my scheming brought peace to the world.

I found myself grinning as I was drawn to the way Yasuchika-san laughed awkwardly.

Yuno: This is going to be a norm from now on, you’ll get used to it.

Yasuchika: I hope I get used to it fast.

Yasuchika: When that comes, it’ll become natural for me to stand by your side.

My heart ached sweetly as he lovingly stroked my hair.

Yasuchika: Also, I heard this from Tamamo. … You decided not to break your deal with him?

Yuno: That's right.

Yuno: So can you make me your assistant again?

Yasuchika: Yuno-san…

Yuno: I’ll still work as an apothecary because that's my dream job, but…

Yuno: Since you're now the country’s protector, I want to help you.

(Ah…)

My skin grew hot when he pulled me into a tight hug.

Yasuchika: — I’m so happy. Thank you.

Yuno: … Me too.

(I can boldly hold Yasuchika-san’s hand now.)

Yuno: I’m grateful to Tamamo for allowing it.

Tamamo seems to have taken a liking to Kamakura, so he’ll be staying on as a house guest from now on.

Yasuchika: Hey, Yuno-san.

Yuno: Yes?

Yasuchika-san gazed at me in the light of the setting sun.

Yasuchika: I love you.

Yuno: W-why so sudden…

Yasuchika: Hmm there are many things I want to tell you that I’ve never been able to.

Yuno: … Me too.

Yuno: Today and always, I love you.

Yasuchika: …

Yasuchika-san’s eyes widened slightly when I confessed my true feelings.

(I love how he can so casually say he loves me, but get so flustered when I do the same.)

(It’ll be great if being loved becomes a norm for Yasuchika-san.)

Yasuchika: It's embarrassing… my heart is fully occupied by my feelings for you.

Yuno: Do you hate it?

Yasuchika: Nope.

Yasuchika: — It makes me happy.

(Ah, that's good.)

An image of the young Yasuchika-san, who had grown up without knowing love and had a dead look in his eyes, flashed across my mind for a split second and vanished.

Yuno: I hope that we'll have tons of fun and happy memories together.

I learnt that Yasuchika-san had a precognitive dream about my death, and he changed that future.

(That’s why I’m going to devote all of me to this man from now on.)

Yasuchika: I’m up for anything as long as it's with you.

Yasuchika-san’s eyes that were so close to mine had a continuous burning flame of passion behind them.

Yasuchika: I would've done everything possible to become more powerful, but I wanted to keep my humanity.

Yasuchika: In the past… I wanted to protect you with these hands.

Yuno: In the past?

Yasuchika: Yeah. But there were other people who also wanted to protect you.

Yasuchika-san smiled bitterly, perhaps he had a specific person in mind.

Yasuchika: But that’s alright.

Yasuchika: I decided to fight back.

Yasuchika: I want you to stay by my side simply because I like you. It’s such a laughable and miserable desire.

Yasuchika: Even if everyone forbids it… or you get scared, I’ll force you to do that.

Yuno: … I won’t be scared.

Yuno: I’m going to be stronger than everyone else.

Yuno: I… I want to protect you too.

Yasuchika: …

Yasuchika-san touched my face as if trying to ascertain my features.

His handsome face drew closer and…

Yuno: Mm…

A sigh spilled from my mouth the moment my lips were stolen.

(The sound my chest is making… it's so loud.)

Yasuchika: How lovely. You had this same look last night.

Yuno: Ah…

(I got reminded of all sorts of things when you said that… please don't.)

Last night — Yasuchika-san and I had our first time.

Perhaps sensing that I was getting embarrassed, Yasuchika-san let out a low chuckle.

Yasuchika: Hey, Yuno-san. Last night, I tried to “persuade” you in my own way to remain in Kyōto…

Yasuchika: I’m going to ask you the same thing one last time. Just tell me honestly what your choice is, you don't have to worry about me.

(What?)

Yasuchika: Do you want to go back to Kamakura?

Yasuchika-san was no longer smiling.

He waited for my answer with a serious look in his eyes.

Yuno: I…

With the path leading to my future laid out in front of me, my answer to him was…