#yoshitsune translation

[aishangotome]

Minamoto no Yoshitsune: Chapter 1

*Yoshino is the canon name for MC in Genjiden, so I will be using her name in place of player's name or Y/N.

(Gather your spell power, break the bond with Tamamo... and open your own apothecary!)

Thinking of the ordinary and lovable daily life, I was inspired and looked straight ahead.

Yoshino: Thank you! Everyone.

Yoritomo: If you can answer that clearly, then you've done well. --For now.

Shigehira: Are you sure you want to be so lukewarm? The enemy is that Yoshitsune-san.

As Shigehira-san said this, his eyes were filled with a hint of caution.

(Yoshitsune-sama...)

Yoshitsune: I rose from the brink of death to defeat Lord Yoritomo. I surrendered my soul to something inhuman.

(Lord Yorimoto's younger brother, right?)

(However, Ayakashi... is trying to defeat Lord Yoritomo even by signing a contract with Kurama.)

Yoshino: Um, what kind of person is Yoshitsune-sama?

Tamamo: I'm curious too. Even if Yoshitsune has Kurama's supernatural powers, wasn't he a force that was once destroyed?

Tamamo: And yet, you say you need Yoshino's power.

Tamamo: Do you really have no confidence that you can stand up to him?

Yoshino: Hey, Tamamo!?

(If you say that...)

The rims of Kagetoki's glasses glittered, and his sharp gaze shot through us.

Kagetoki: It's not hard to see why a stupid Ayakashi who's been sleeping under a rock with a country girl wouldn't know about it.

Yoshino: Yes, country girl... you're not wrong.

(What sharp words!)

Morinaga: Hey, Kagetoki. The two of them are offering to lend a hand, so you shouldn't talk like that.

Tamamo: Yes, yes, respect.

Kagetoki: Excuse me. Woe to the honest man.

Morinaga: KA - GE - TO - KI?

Kagetoki: .....

Kagetoki quickly took a step away from Morinaga and grimly kept his mouth shut.

(He's smiling, but maybe Morinaga isn't an ordinary person either...?)

Shigehira: We're getting off topic.

Yoritomo: Don't get hung up on it, Shigehira.

Yoritomo: Well, the one who knows best how much of a threat Yoshitsune was is you, as a member of the Heike (Taira) clan who fought him directly.

Yoshino: The Heike...

(Come to think of it, Shigehira called himself "Taira Shigehira"...)

Even though I am a "country girl," I know that the Taira and Minamoto clans have been fighting for a long time.

Yoshino: Why is Taira Shigehira-san in Yoritomo-sama's camp...?

Shigehira: I'd like to say that it doesn't matter, but I'll tell you this much.

Shigehira: --because I fought Yoshitsune-san and lost.

(What?)

I felt a flickering flame in Shigehira's pale eyes.

Yoritomo: Shigehira may look like this, but he is a man who is considered a great general of the Heike clan.

Yoritomo: At that time, the Taira clan was already in decline. While it's not as simple as merely attributing their defeat to a lack of military strength, it is certain that Yoshitsune scattered the Taira clan and dramatically guided them to their end.

Shigehira: I was supposed to be executed there, but for some reason, Lord Yoritomo spared me.

Shigehira: So after all that happened, we formed an alliance and now I'm in the Shogunate..... Got it?

Yoshino: Yes, for the time being.

(I'm sure there's a deeper story, but this isn't the right kind of atmosphere to ask about it.)

Shigehira: Yoshitsune, who approaches battle with a seemingly carefree attitude, is an extraordinary monster.

(So that's the story of when the Genji clan defeated the Heike clan...)

Yoshino: You mean he was tremendously strong even before he gained Kurama's supernatural powers... is that right?

Tamamo: It's a horrifying story, isn't it? He's a force to be reckoned with.

Shigehira: That's right. Not only is he a troublesome opponent, but he has also acquired supernatural powers.

Despite the furrowed brow on Shigehira-san's face, there was no fear; only a determination for battle.

(And the others too... they all have the face of a samurai.)

Kagetoki: ... At that time, under Lord Yoritomo's command, I also accompanied Yoshitsune-sama in battle as a retainer.

Yoshino: So you saw Yoshitsune-sama fight up close?

Tamamo: How was it? From Kagetoki's point of view.

Kagetoki: Yes, it was an insane fight.

(What...)

Kagetoki continued his words matter-of-factly.

Kagetoki: Despite being a general while leading the vanguard, he ran to the front lines and swung his sword with such ferocity as if discarding his life...

Kagetoki: Sometimes, he calmly carried out daring strategies that seemed reckless.

Kagetoki: When the subordinates saw him, they followed him as if possessed by something, chasing after him towards their doom.

Morinaga: There was a rumor going around at the time that no grass would grow wherever Lord Yoshitsune passed by.

Morinaga: When I first saw him, I was utterly amazed by his graceful appearance and exceptional swordsmanship and combat skills.

(I can't believe the people behind the Shogunate would say something like this...!)

Yoshino: ...He's such a great person.

When I coughed in awe, Lord Yoritomo raised a corner of his lips in a sarcastic manner.

Yoritomo: No matter how critical the situation, a man like Yoshitsune has the potential to turn the tide of battle.

Yoritomo: In fact, some battles would have been lost without that man's help.

(Just by listening to the stories, it's hard to believe that such a person actually exists.)

(But...)

(Yoshitsune-sama clearly had an aura different from an ordinary person.)

Just remembering that cold look in his eyes made me cower with fear.

Tamamo: As expected from the discerning eye of Kurama, he had predicted that Yoshitune's soul was not that of an ordinary person.

Yoshino: So we have to fight someone like that...

Yoritomo: Are you scared?

--CHOICES--

Scared

Not scared

I don't know

---

Yoshino: To be honest, I'm scared.

(No matter how powerful Tamamo is, Yoshitsune-sama seems to be more fearsome than I had imagined...)

Yoritomo: You're really stupid. Well, it's better than being lied to.

Yoritomo: It's about time to get some rest.

Yoshino: Um... what should I do starting tomorrow?

Yoritomo: You can do whatever you like. I'll prepare a room for you.

Yoshino: When someone says 'you can do whatever you like'... it actually makes me feel a bit uneasy.

Yoritomo: If you have any inconvenience, tell the maid. If you're bored, I'll arrange suitable entertainment, be it music or dance.

(Eh)

Yoshino: That's not what I meant!

Yoritomo: Then what do you mean?

Yoshino: I was just wondering if it's okay for me to wait for the battle with Yoshitsune-sama like this... And Yoritomo-sama said, 'I will hire you.' I can't just do nothing when I'm employed.

Yoritomo: ......

(Huh? I have a bad feeling about this...)

For some reason, Yoritomo-sama stared at me intently and then immediately had a look of amusement on his face.

Yoritomo: Oh? You're serious, huh? Well, if you say so, I'll give you a job.

Yoshino: What, really...?

Yoritomo: Yeah.

Yoritomo: Kagetoki. I think I received a letter last night from another country asking for reinforcements for the war.

Kagetoki: Yes. However, it is just a minor skirmish between two small countries. I don't think it is a battle that would warrant the Shogunate's intervention.

Yoritomo: I thought about abandoning it, but at this point, it's not a bad idea to ingratiate myself with them in preparation for the Great War.

Yoritomo: Morinaga.

Morinaga: Oh, is it my turn?

Yoritomo: Yeah. Take Yoshino with you and check out the situation.

Yoshino: Wait! Are you saying we're going straight to the battlefield...?

As I voiced my doubts, Yoritomo-sama smiled.

Yoritomo: You're the one who asked for work.

Yoritomo: They say practice makes perfect, right?

(That's true, but---)

Yoshino: Isn't it too harsh to suddenly throw someone in like that!?

I was stunned by the tense atmosphere of the battlefield.

Morinaga: I'm sorry, Yoshino.

Yoshino: No, I should apologize to Morinaga-san... I'm sorry.

We were at the main camp where the battle had just begun.

Morinaga receives reports from his messengers, who comes in incessantly, and sends instructions to each unit accordingly.

(Apparently, the other soldiers have been told that I'm accompanying them because I'm a pharmacist...)

(I feel like people have been glancing at me for awhile now. I guess I'm out of place after all...?)

I thought Tamamo, who was in the same position as me, would be ordered to accompany me, but... he was tasked with providing details about Kurama's supernatural powers to Yoritomo-sama, and so he decided to remain at the Imperial Palace.

Yoshino: It all happened so suddenly that I'm shocked... is Yoritomo-sama always this forceful?

Morinaga: Except when he's pretending to be someone else.

Morinaga-san laughs so refreshingly, as if he didn't belong on the battlefield.

Morinaga: Hmm, but I don't think Yoritomo-sama sent you into battle just out of spite.

Yoshino: ...really?

Morinaga: Even the bravest warrior is terrified by his first battle. And, you're just an untrained town girl.

Morinaga: It's best to be familiar with the battlefield so that you can survive should the unexpected happen.

Yoshino: Ah...

Those words suddenly brought back memories of that night.

Yoritomo: Are you okay, Morinaga!?

Morinaga: Yeah, it's not a serious wound. Just watch out for that wind... it's like a blade.

Yoshitsune: As expected of a fierce general, Adachi Morinaga... you've skillfully evaded it.

Yoshitsune: It's a bit of a shame to have to kill you. If it weren't for this situation, I would have enjoyed working together more.

(That was the first time I saw Yoshitsune-sama's unusual ability, yet both Yoritomo-sama and Morinaga-sama remained calm.)

(That may be because the two of them have had many experiences facing danger on the battlefield before...)

Yoshino: Certainly on the battlefield, you can't always count on someone being by your side. I guess it's better for me to get used to it too...

Morinaga: As far as this battle is concerned, it is small. As long as we are in the main camp, we are not likely to be attacked by the enemy. I think this was a decision that was made with that in mind.

Yoshino: If Yoritomo-sama had said that from the beginning, I would have been able to accept it more easily...

Morinaga: That's the kind of person he is.

When Morinaga saw the next messenger rush in, he stood up and answered in a matter-of-fact manner.

(Of course, I still know nothing about the samurai or the people of the Shogunate.)

And a few hours later...

(At first I was worried about what would happen, but before I knew it, the sun was setting...)

Morinaga: Yoshino, thank you for taking care of the wounded.

Yoshino: Not at all! This is the only thing I can do.

Along the way, I started treating the injured, and time passed by in the blink of an eye.

Morinaga: Thanks to you, it looks like we're about to win.

Yoshino: Really!?

(Thank goodness, I can get home safely...!)

But my joy was short-lived---

Soon after, an uneasy atmosphere began to spread throughout the main camp.

Morinaga: ...It's strangely noisy on the front lines.

As if to affirm Morinaga-san's words, the number of injured people had been increasing for awhile now.

(I'm managing to get by for now, but if it gets worse, I'll run out of medicine.)

(What on earth happened...?)

Scout: Morinaga-sama! It seems that the enemy has reinforcements. Their number is approximately one hundred!

Morinaga: One hundred? It's too responsive for that number.

Morinaga: It's as if they received a thousand reinforcements.

(Does a thousand... mean that's how strong the enemy is?)

Morinaga: ...Yoshino.

After a brief pause, Morinaga turned to face me.

Morinaga: Will you go with the guards and get out of the battlefield for the time being?

Yoshino: Morinaga-sama...?

Morinaga: I'm going to go help our allies on the front lines.

(...)

Morinaga-san's words were filled with a strong will.

(I'm anxious to leave Morinaga-san, but under the circumstances, I don't have a choice.)

(Even at this moment, there are people waiting for help.)

(At least... don't let myself get in the way!)

I clench my trembling hands tightly.

Yoshino: ...I understand. Be careful.

Morinaga: You too. Please be careful.

I parted from Morinaga and headed to the rear with the other soldiers.

I desperately clung to the unfamiliar horse and kept letting it run for awhile...

(Huh? It looks like a messenger has arrived.)

A soldier rushed in and delivered a message. The others immediately began to stir.

Yoshino: Um, what's going on?

I timidly asked a nearby soldier.

Soldier 1: Actually... we have received information that our rear supply units may be targeted.

Yoshino: Eh.

Soldier 1: If the rear, which is responsible for assessing the battle situation and supplying provisions, were to collapse, it will deal a significant blow to the soldiers currently fighting...!

(No way...)

The image of Morinaga and the other soldiers I had parted ways with earlier came to mind.

Soldier 2: We can't just abandon them. We must defend our supplies. Let's go!

Soldier 3: ...However, that would mean fighting while protecting Yoshino. And the fastest route is the animal trail, but it is far too dangerous for someone who is not used to riding horses!

(I'm just a burden...)

I opened my mouth with determination.

Yoshino: ...Um, if you can find somewhere to hide, please leave me there!

Soldier 3: But...

(My voice was trembling, but...)

(Other people are fighting for their lives. I can't get in their way.)

Yoshino: If there is a battle, it's just as dangerous for me to be with you all, and I don't want to cause any trouble by being there. Rather, I'd prefer you come and pick me up after the fighting calms down...

The soldiers looked at each other and kept quiet.

After a short silence, one of them spoke.

Soldier 3: ...Yoshino is certainly right. Night will soon be upon us and the battle will be over. It would be better for you to hide somewhere safe rather than staying with us. I will show you the way, follow me!

Yoshino: Y-yes!

We entered the forest for awhile, and I was then guided to...

Soldier 3: There is a cabin over there used by local hunters. In case of an emergency, you can send out a smoke signal... I will come to pick you up in a moment, so please be patient.

Yoshino: ...Thank you very much. I hope everyone stays safe!

The soldiers disappeared from sight, and I finally realized that I am a human being.

(I'm a bit worried though...)

*flashback*

Morinaga: It's best to be familiar with the battlefield so that you can survive should the unexpected happen.

*flashback over*

(...Now is the time. All I can do is stay here and wait for the soldiers to return.)

(If anything happens, I can just send up a signal... it will be fine.)

Telling myself this, I headed for the cabin through the underbrush.

When I opened the door of the simple cabin--

???: W-who is it...?

(What?!)

In a dimly lit corner of the room, a soldier lay in agony.

(It's a terrible injury!)

Yoshino: Are you okay...?

As I rushed over to him, my eyes fell on a flag lying next to the soldier.

(This is...)

(...There's no doubt about it. This symbol was raised by the enemy!)

Enemy Soldier: A woman...? Why are you here...

Yoshino: I, I...

(If by any chance they find out I'm an enemy... I'll definitely be killed.)

I instinctively stepped back and my back hit the door.

Enemy Soldier: Wait... I don't know which town you are from, but you can't leave until the war is over...

Yoshino: What...?

The soldier, who seemed to have no energy to move, was giving me words of advice.

(This person is...)

(Although they didn't know I was the enemy... they were worried about me even though they were so wounded themselves.)

(A little bit of medical attention might help right now.)

(But this is not something I can show Morinaga and the others who were risking their lives to fight the enemy.)

(What should I do...)

Enemy Soldier: Guh...

Yoshino: Um...

While I hesitated, blood trickled from the soldier's side and pooled onto the floor.

(I am...)

I took out a cloth that I had prepared in case of emergency and administered first aid.

Enemy Soldier: Ah, what are you doing...

Yoshino: Please stay still. I am a pharmacist.

(I don't know what is the right thing to do right now. But I'd rather help... than to regret it.)

After awhile...

(I managed to stop the bleeding for now, but he was still covered in wounds. I need to wash the wounds and apply medicine to prevent them from getting infected.)

(I'm sure there was a stream nearby. I could just go outside for a bit...)

Yoshino: Can you wait a moment? I'm going to fetch some water.

Enemy Soldier: Ah..yeah...

I left the man there and quickly made my way to the stream.

--

(This is...)

The empty plains were in a terrible shape.

The burning embers and broken arrows stuck in the ground were telltale signs of a fierce battle.

(I've finished drawing water, so I need to get back to the cabin quickly...)

I was about to hurry back when my lips pursed together...

???: What are you doing here--- fox princess?

(That voice...)

A strange massed voice echoes from behind me, the kind that you would never forget once you've heard it.

(That can't be... he can't be here.)

It felt as if the temperature around me had suddenly dropped, and I broke out in a cold sweat, unable to even turn around.

All I could hear was the clear sound of footsteps approaching through the grass.

(...I have to run away!)

I forced my stiffened legs to move and roll out of the way, but---

Yoshitsune: Freeze.

Yoshino: Ah...

He grabbed my arm with strength and I knelt on the spot.

Yoshitsune: This is a much sooner reunion that I had expected.

Yoshino: Yoshitsune-sama...

Eyes that resembled amethyst looked down at me.

(What a cold stare...)

I tried to turn my face away in horror, but the hand on my chin prevented me from doing so.

Yoshitsune: I had no idea that an unexpected enemy was lurking in the midst of enemy reinforcements that I joined on a whim.

Yoshino: When you say enemy reinforcements... do you mean the rebel army?

Yoshitsune: We haven't brought enough soldiers to be called an army.

(Now that I think about it, Yoritomo-sama said that...)

(...Yoshitsune-sama is the one who can turn the tide of battle by himself, no matter how critical the situation.)

(That's why the war situation had suddenly worsened!)

Yoshitsune: Does your presence mean that the shogunate is coming to the battlefield?

Yoshino: It's...

Yoshitsune: Answer me.

The intimidating presence that left no room for argument sent a chill down my spine.

Yoshino: ...Yoritomo-sama is not here.

Yoshitsune: ---really?

Yoshitsune: Then it was Lord Yoritomo's fault for letting his precious trump card slip from his hand.

Yoshino: Ah...

The tip of his blade was held against my throat, and I had stopped breathing.

The fear made my skin crawl and my body tremble.

Yoshitsune: ...Resent me, Yoshino.

.

.

.

.

.

Read Chapter 2 here.

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to buy me a coffee here! :)

[cheshireliam]

Minamoto no Yoshitsune Main Story: Chapter 19

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┊Genjiden Glossary

(I’m coming for you. … As your enemy.) 

I tightened my grip on the reins, an image of Yoshitsune-sama vividly etched in my mind. 

The horse neighed and bravely galloped forward. 

… 

Tamamo: I see the enemy. 

Yuno: You're right. 

While trying not to fall too far behind Tamamo, I caught sight of a larger number of people fighting in the distance. 

Tamamo: Stay low.

Yuno: Got it! You be careful too, Tamamo— 

My horse broke into a sprint and in no time, we charged into the battlefield. 

…

Soldiers: CHAAAAARRGGGEEE!

(What a horrifying sight…)

The stench of blood filled the air and people dropped to the ground one by one. 

I bit my lip, fighting the urge to shield my eyes from the gruesome scene. 

Tamamo: Yuno!

The moment I heard my name,

Yuno: Kya…! 

An arrow whizzed toward me, but Tamamo managed to strike it down with his sword. 

(That was close…)

Yuno: … Thanks, Tamamo.

Tamamo: No need to thank me. 

Tamamo grinned nonchalantly. 

Tamamo: It’s been about a hundred years since I last wielded a weapon. 

Yuno: You look very skilled despite that. 

Tamamo: I’m an all-rounded Fox Demon, after all. 

Tamamo: Let’s keep going. Yoshitsune’s up ahead. 

Yuno: … Yeah. Let’s do this. 

I pulled my hood over my head. 

My hair turned silver and my eyes golden when I activated my powers. 

(As much as possible, I need to avoid startling the soldiers around me.) 

As we pushed on towards the frontlines, the battle grew more intense.

Tamamo: There he is, Yuno! 

(Ah…)

I finally spotted him up ahead. 

Yoshitsune-sama and Yoritomo-sama were already engaged in a fierce clash of swords. 

(Yoshitsune-sama…) 

Seeing him again after so long made my chest tighten. . 

Yuno: We must hurry and catch up… 

Tamamo: Yeah. I’ll advance first, make sure to stick close to me. 

Yuno: Got it! 

Tamamo unsheathed his sword and dashed ahead of me, swiftly cutting down several enemies in his way. 

As he cleared a path, we charged forward and moved closer to the two men in combat. 

Yoshitsune: Yoritomo-kou— ready yourself! 

(That's dangerous!)

Yoritomo-sama narrowly dodged Yoshitsune-sama’s blade that swung at him at an almost imperceptible speed. 

Yoritomo: Your skills are as ruthless as ever, Yoshitsune. 

Yoshitsune: Its sole purpose is to defeat you. 

Yoshitsune: And exactly why I’m here right now.  

Yoshitsune-sama deflected Yoritomo-sama’s blade and pulled his horse back to create some distance. 

And then,—

(What is that…!?) 

The air around Yoshitsune-sama began to distort, and a strange wind rose as he raised his sword.

Yoshitsune: — This ends here. 

Yuno: I-I won’t let you!

I leapt between the two without a second thought. 

Yoshitsune: …! 

Yoritomo: — You’re here. 

Countless wind blades formed around Yoshitsune-sama and flew towards Yoritomo-sama standing next to me— 

(Please! Take his curse powers away…) 

Just like I had practiced in Kamakura, I lifted my hand and focused all my willpower onto it. 

The strength of the wind blades weakened, and slowly absorbed into my outstretched palm.

(Nngh…)

My throbbing pulse spread the heat from my palm throughout my body. 

I exhaled deeply, feeling that familiar sensation after so long. 

(It’s okay, I can do this.) 

Amidst the clamouring of swords clashing from the soldiers fighting around us, it appeared that no one noticed the unusual abilities Yoshitsune-sama and I had.

Yoshitsune: — Yuno.

Yuno: Yoshitsune-sama.

A hint of conflicted flashed in Yoshitsune-sama’s eyes, and the next moment— 

Yoshitsune: Ggh— 

He bit his lip and spurred his horse forward.

(Ah.) 

A large blade came slashing down in a flash.

Yoritomo: Don't you forget about my presence.

Tamamo: Same thoughts. 

Yoritomo-sama and Tamamo leapt forward at the same time, intercepting Yoshitsune-sama’s attack.

Yoshitsune: Guh… 

Despite his blade being deflected, Yoshitsune-sama was quick to regain his stance. 

He turned his emotionless gaze onto me.

Yoshitsune: Somewhere in my heart, Yuno, I hoped you wouldn't come.

Yoshitsune: I foolishly dreamed of never having to cut you down with my own hands.

(That’s… what I feel too.)

Yuno: Yoshitsune-sama! I have never, not even once, wished to hurt you! 

Yoshitsune: But all forms of emotions are trivial

Yoshitsune: — Compared to the hatred burning within this body.

Yuno: …! 

There was no longer any hesitation in Yoshitsune-sama’s eyes. 

My heart let out a silent cry as he pointed his blade at me. 

Yoshitsune: I’ll show no mercy to anyone who chooses to stand in my way. Not even to you, Yuno. 

Yuno: Even so… I will fight! 

Yuno: I can’t retreat, because I believe in a future that can only be achieved through fighting for it. 

Yoshitsune: Then it's time you be prepared for me to shatter that belief of yours.

With countless wind blades swirling around him, Yoshitsune-sama charged at us. 

(I’m scared, but…)

I tightened my core, refusing to take even one step back.

(Because I…) 

Tamamo: All that wind is messing up my hair.

Yoritomo: I’ll give you a haircut later so it doesn't get in the way. 

(— I have friends I can rely on.) 

The two lunged forward unhesitatingly and attacked Yoshitsune-sama from both sides. 

Even though the wind blades slashed mercilessly at their bodies,— 

Yuno: Yoritomo-sama! Tamamo! 

(I must do what I’m here for!)

Yuno: Ggh… 

(So many…) 

I raised both hands, focusing all my efforts on absorbing the curse powers.

Yoshitsune: It’s pointless.

Yoritomo: Don’t be so quick to judge.

Yoritomo: You’re still as inpatient as ever, Yoshitsune. 

Yoritomo-sama eased through the weakened wind blades and closed in on Yoshitsune-sama. 

Yoshitsune: The faster my judgement and blade, the better. — Like this.

(No—) 

Yoritomo: … 

Yoshitsune-sama’s sleeves fluttered, his blade gleaming in the sunlight. 

It was pointed straight at Yoritomo-sama’s neck— 

Tamamo: My, my. 

(Tamamo!)

At the same time when Yoritomo-sama deflected the blade, Tamamo urged his horse forward and launched a surprise attack from Yoshitsune-sama’s blind spot.

Tamamo: Your back’s wide open.

Yoshitsune: So what?

(He’s fast…!)

Yoshitsune-sama gracefully evaded the attack and turned his horse around. 

Yoshitsune: — How annoying. 

In response to his increasing bloodlust, more small whirlwinds started forming around him.

(That's so many…!) 

Yuno: Ugh… 

A wind blade I failed to absorb left a shallow cut on my arm. 

Yoritomo: Stand back a little, Yuno. 

Yuno: I-I’m fine. 

Blood was oozing out of my wound, but there was no time to bother about it. 

Yoshitsune: — I see. Clearly, you’re the biggest obstacle in this battle. 

Yoshitsune: I can’t allow you to absorb any more of my curse powers.

Yoritomo: Tch… 

Yoshitsune-sama dodged Yoritomo-sama’s blade and aimed directly at me. 

(H-he’s already right before my eyes—)

Yoshitsune-sama shot me a piercing gaze as he raised his blade.

(Oh no, I can’t dodge…!)

Tamamo: Think I’d let you? 

Tamamo swung at him from the right, forcing Yoshitusne-sama to evade and slightly lose his balance.

Yoritomo-sama took the opportunity to strike.

Yoshitsune: Ggh…

(Ah…) 

Yoshitsune-sama began to bleed.

I barely managed to stop my hand from instinctively reaching out. 

(I can’t…) 

Judging from Yoshitsune-sama’s regular breathing, the wound wasn't deep.

And so the battle continued.

Although neither of us suffered fatal injuries, Yoshitsune-sama and I were covered in wounds. 

(It’s too cruel to hurt someone so dear to me with my own hands…) 

Yoshitsune: *pant*...

Every wound Yoshitsune-sama sustained felt like my heart was being ripped apart. 

(But precisely because he’s so dead to me… I’ll stop him, no matter what it takes!) 

As the battle continued—.

Yoritomo: — About time. 

Yoshitsune: What?

Yuno: …! That’s… 

In the direction Yoritomo-sama was lookin, a group of reinforcements arrived, kicking up clouds of dust as they rushed in. 

Tamamo: Finally. 

Morinaga: That’s enough mischief from you, Yoshitsune-sama.

Yuno: Morinaga-san!

Morinaga-san’s arrival caused a stir among the Rebel Army’s soldiers.

Yoshitsune: You’re here— the “Wild General”. 

Yoshitsune-sama spoke curtly and distanced himself. 

Yoshitsune: Don’t falter! This is merely the Shogunate’s pet tiger having a little fun. 

Yoshitsune: As fearless fighters of Oshu Hiraizumi, we hunt tigers like it’s our second nature!

(... The enemy soldiers immediately calmed down.) 

Yoshitsune: — Come, let’s hunt down the Shogunate’s hope! 

Rebel Army Soldiers: RAAAAHHHH!!

The soldiers let out a battle cry intense enough to shake the air.

Morinaga: Goodness. I wonder who’s the real tiger here. 

Morinaga: Step forward, those who want to gain military achievements! 

Morinaga: Let’s teach these wild beasts a lesson on Kamakura warrior etiquette! 

The Shogunate’s soldiers raised their voices unyieldingly. 

(Amazing…!) 

Joined by the reinforcements brought in by Morinaga-san, the Shogunate soldiers firmly held their ground. 

Yoritomo: Yuno, Tamamo. Come here. 

Yuno: Okay! 

Tamamo: Got it. 

Following Yoritomo-sama’s command, I retreated with Tamamo and Yoshitsune-sama quickly vanished.

Morinaga: Apologies for the delay, Yoritomo-sama!

Morinaga-san joined Yoritomo-sama with great force. 

Yoritomo: Good work. You’re late, huh. 

Morinaga: I was held back dealing with Benkei.

Morinaga: I’ll handle this to make up for it. … Okay? 

Yoritomo: Don’t have to tell me twice.

Yoritomo: Once we leave, you and the others secure a retreat route and withdraw when you can. 

Morinaga: Yes, my lord. 

Tamamo: It's very like Yoritomo to use such cunning ways like chipping away at the enemy’s strength. 

(Even so… it's at the cost of people's lives.)

Morinaga: You did well, Yuno. 

Yuno: Don't mention it… take care, Morinaga-san. 

At Yoritomo-sama’s signal, the main forces quickly divided into two groups. We started running with dozens of soldiers. 

Yoshitsune: Hold! 

Yuno: Y-Yoshitsune-sama… 

Yoshitsune-sama, riding alone, plowed through the soldiers and headed towards us at an incredible speed. 

Yoshitsune: I won’t let you leave.

Morinaga: — Nope, but let’s make it work.

Morinaga: Don’t say disheartening things like “I’m not strong enough”, yeah?

Standing alongside Morinaga-san, the Shogunate’s soldiers blocked Yoshitsune-sama’s path. 

(Yoshitsune-sama…)

Yoshitsune: … Yuno. 

Our eyes met at the final moment.

The flame burning in his eyes scorched me throughout.

(It's only natural… for him to hate me.) 

I clenched my fists tightly and left the battlefield without looking back. 

…

Eventually, the fighting was finally done for the day. 

…

We made our way towards our encampment. . 

Yuno: Um, how are the results of today’s battle…?

Yoritomo: We’re about even for now. 

Yoritomo: That said, we have the upper hand in a war of attrition. We’ll use the same strategy tomorrow. 

(That means tomorrow will be another difficult battle for me…) 

Tamamo: How's your injury, Yuno?

Yuno: They’re mostly minor scratches. I’ll apply some medicine and they’ll heal in no time. 

Tamamo: That’s good to hear. But don’t force yourself, understand?

Yuno: Thanks, I’m okay. 

I quietly gazed up at the sky…

The night sky full of stars was as beautiful as it was when I saw it with Yoshitsune-sama in Hiraizumi. 

(I wonder what Yoshitsune-sama is thinking right now.)

…

At the same,— in the Rebel Army’s camp. 

Yoshitsune: … 

Yoshitsune sat by the campfire wearing a melancholic expression. 

Kurama approached him as he stared at the crackling flames. 

Kurama: How’re you feeling?

Yoshitsune: The battle isn't over. I feel neither joy nor sorrow. 

Kurama: Liar. You should go look at your face in the lake. 

Kurama: If you can still give me that bullshit after that, I’ll personally throw you into the water. 

Yoshitsune looked up, startled by the strong emotions in Kurama’s tone. 

With the moon in the background, Kurama’s gaze was sharp like a dagger. 

Kurama: What’s got you this worked up?

Kurama: It’s obvious. 

Kurama: You can’t stop thinking about that lass. 

Yoshitsune: … 

Kurama’s highly specific comment made Yoshitsune fall completely silent.

Kurama: I knew it. 

Kurama: Why do you feel this way?

Kurama: You should've taken her by force if her absence is going to bother you this much. She’s just a woman. Wouldn't it be easy for someone like you to do that? 

Yoshitsune shook his head. 

Yoshitsune: Yuno’s stronger than you think. 

Yoshitsune: She’s a woman who’ll stand on a battlefield to protect those dear to her. 

Yoshitsune looked down at his own hands, as though deep in thought. 

Yoshitsune: She never once retreated, no matter how much she was hurting. 

Yoshitsune: … Yoritomo-kou and the others must mean a lot to her. 

Kurama: Then forget all about that heartless woman who didn't choose you. 

Yoshitsune: … 

A heavy silence fell between the two… 

Kurama: Do you wish you could erase your memories of her?

Kurama spoke suddenly, like he had just had the idea. 

[sakura-samsara]

Yoichi Main Story: Chapter 5 Normal Story

← Chapter 5

Yoichi: Aww, man. I really hate working off-schedule. 

Yoshino: Yoichi-san?!

Yoichi: That’s me.

He hurled another knife at the ayakashi, the flash of its blade splitting the black of night. 

The ayakashi let out a roar, and its mistlike form dispersed until it seemed like it had dissolved into the darkness.

Yoichi: Get over here, Yoshino!

Yoshino: !!

My body moved faster than my mind at the very moment that I heard him call for me. 

I dashed to Yoichi’s side despite the limp in my gait—at the same time, the dark shadow began to coalesce again, writhing with new vitality.

Yoshino: No…!

Yoichi: Well, this isn’t good. If a knife isn't going to cut it, there’s nothing else I can do. 

(How can he say that so casually?!)

Yoichi: Now—oof!—up you go.

Yoshino: Yoichi-san?! What are you doing??

He’d hooked his arm under my knees and lifted me up against his chest with ease.

Yoichi: Stay still, mmkay?

Yoichi spoke in a hushed voice, breaking into a sprint with me still held tight in his arms.

Yoshino: P-Put me down! You’re putting yourself in danger…

Yoichi: No way am I letting you do any running. Your leg’s injured, from the looks of it. Just keep quiet and hang on. 

(He noticed…)

Warmth bloomed in my chest as I entrusted my body to Yoichi despite my disorientation.

I cast an apprehensive look back towards the ayakashi—it hadn’t caught up to us just yet.

(It looks like the ayakashi needs to take a while to recover after it’s attacked.)

Yoshino: What are you even doing here in the first place?

Yoichi: Yashichi ran to my stand and begged me to come rescue you. Kid was just bawling his eyes out, so it wasn’t like I could say no. 

Yoshino: So Yashichi-kun called for help after all…

(Thank goodness that he returned safe and sound!)

(...But that makes this the second time that Yoichi-san’s saved me, now.)

Yoshino: …Thank you, Yoichi-san.

Yoichi: Don’t thank me just yet. 

He jabbed a finger out at the darkness,

and I followed its line to see the ayakashi creeping towards us almost vengefully. 

(....)

We had hidden ourselves in a grove of trees, but the ayakashi was still roving through the thicket as though it was searching for us.

Yoichi: Sure, I could run around playing cops and robbers with that thing all night.

Yoichi: But if we don’t deal with it eventually, we’re gonna end up bringing it back to town with us when we go back.

(If that happens…!)

Yoshino: We can't let it attack the townspeople!

Yoichi: Ehh, speak for yourself. It’s not like I've got any reason to care about the people of Kamakura.

Yoshino: How could you—?!

I swallowed the rest of my words before they could spill out.

(Yoichi-san came all this way to rescue me.)

(Regardless of why he did it, it’s not right for me to complain about what he says when he’s helping me.)

Yoshino: I just wish I could use my powers to get rid of it…

Yoichi: What? You can’t even use them?

Yoshino: I tried, but… Yeah… I have no idea how I was able to use them without thinking earlier. 

Yoichi: …

Yoichi: I heard Kurama tell Yoshitsune-sama something once.

Yoichi: Supernatural powers are transferred to and from the soul. Using them is less about thinking and more about feeling. So, the stronger your will to use them is, the stronger they’ll end up manifesting. Or something like that.

(That means…)

Yoshino: So you think I can’t use my powers well because I don’t believe enough in myself? 

Yoichi: That could be it, yeah.

(...Well, I was pretty doubtful about whether or not I’d be able to use my possession powers when I tried earlier.) 

Yoshino: So, if I try my hardest to will myself to use their power… will I finally be able to do it? 

Yoichi: Sure, yeah.

I looked intently at Yoichi in spite of his indifferent response. 

Yoshino: Yoichi-san, please put me down and stand back.

(Yoichi-san is right. There’s nothing we can do about the situation just by standing around.) 

(This time, I will stop the ayakashi before it attacks the town!)

Yoichi: ……

I held his gaze as he cast a long look at me, as though he was sizing me up. 

Yoichi: Nah, I don’t think I will.

(Huh?)

Yoichi: If you’re gonna use your powers, why don’t you use them with me by your side?

Yoichi: That way, I can have your back. 

He drew a knife from his pocket, so deftly that it seemed to appear out of thin air. Like a magic trick.

Yoshino: But…

Yoichi: Oh? You’re worried about me? You’re such a sweetheart.

(That wasn’t what I—)

The spark of mirth that always danced in Yoichi’s eyes suddenly disappeared, his face now cast in a serious light.

Yoichi: You’re the kind of person who’d throw your life in danger just to protect a little fox you found on the side of the road. 

Yoichi: So if you’re gonna try using your powers again, I think it’s best if you’ve got someone to protect you while you’re at it.

(...So he’s saying he won’t leave? He’ll stay with me?)

Yoshino: I just don’t get why you would help me. What’s in this for you…?

(From what I’ve learned about Yoichi-san, he doesn’t seem like he does things purely out of the kindness of his heart.) 

That devil-may-care smile reappeared on his face, but I had a feeling that he was far more calculating than he let on. 

Yoichi: You’re lucky I’m such a nice guy. I’ll only ask you for a contingency fee.

Yoshino: What do you want…?

Yoichi: Your trust.

Yoshino: Huh…?

Yoichi: I’m not asking you to trust in me completely.

Yoichi: But if you can manage to get rid of that ayakashi, I want you to let me into your heart a little.

Yoichi: Well, that’ll be good enough for now, at least.

Yoichi’s eyes glinted provocatively. 

Yoichi: So, what do you say? You gonna take me up on this gamble?

(It’s a risky deal for me to cut.)

(But right now, the only thing that matters to me is defeating the ayakashi, no matter what it takes.)

Yoshino: …I will.

I answered Yoichi with a resolute nod of my head.

Yoshino: Thank you, Yoichi-san.

Yoichi: You’re my partner now. Don’t mention it.

Yoichi: Oh, and by the way—there’s this other thing that I’ve seen Kurama and Yoshitsune-sama do.

Yoichi: You’ve got to have a strong will to use your powers and all that… 

Yoichi: But apparently it’s easier to control them if you associate some kind of gesture with it. 

Yoshino: Some kind of gesture?

Yoichi: You know, like how Yoshitsune-sama swings his sword to help him cast his blades of wind.

Yoichi: And how Kurama uses his war fan to do the same thing. Your gesture can be whatever you want.

(“Whatever you want”? It sounds pretty simple when he puts it that way…)

Yoshino: I guess that makes sense. I’ll give it a shot!

Yoichi: You can do it.

Yoichi stroked my hair with one of his hands.

Yoshino: …What was that for?

Yoichi: Hm? Oh, that? It’s a magic spell that’ll give you courage. 

(He’s as vexing as always… but I do feel a lot less nervous than I did before.)

Yoichi: You ready now, Yoshino?

Yoshino: I’m ready.

Yoichi: Marvelous.

With that, Yoichi picked me back up and dashed in front of the ayakashi.

(Ah-!)

He gently lowered me to the ground—and, a split second after, sent his knife hurtling towards the ayakashi with a practiced flick of his hand.

Yoichi: It’s no fun, hitting a target when it’s this hard to miss.

His knife struck the center of the black mass before us, and the ayakashi let out a groaning howl. 

Yoichi: Now, Yoshino!

Yoshino: …!

I raised my dominant hand high with its palm facing the ayakashi.

(I have to be strong.)

I focused my eyes forward, readying myself to use my power at its full strength.

(Let me take away its power!)

My hair whipped in a sudden gust of wind.

Yoshino: Ah…!

Silver light danced in the periphery of my vision, and I realized that the color of my hair—and my eyes—must have changed again.

(My hand… feels so hot…)

A thick golden haze rose in the air and illuminated the dark surroundings. 

It lingered for a moment before floating towards me, shimmering as it seemed to absorb into the center of my outstretched palm. 

The strange sensation of magic flowing into me shook me to my core, but…

Yoichi: You’ll be alright. I’ve got faith in you, I really do.

Yoichi: So just relax and do your thing. 

One of his hands settled firmly on my lower back as I felt a powerful warmth envelop my whole body.

(Somehow… I’m not afraid anymore.) 

Yoichi drew yet another knife at the ayakashi, ready to protect me.

The ayakashi stretched out towards Yoichi, as if aiming through the mist hanging in between itself and us.

Yoshino: I won’t let you hurt anyone—so you won’t get any further than here.

Yoichi: …

And at last, the tendrils of darkness was dispersed into the golden mist that then flowed back into my body. 

(Even someone like me… is able to be a protector.)

Yoshino: It’s… over…

Yoichi: Mm.

Yoichi: …Beautiful.

I only barely caught the sound of him murmuring to himself as he gazed at the dimming light that surrounded me.

Chapter 6 →

[isshikiirohasu]

ITS TIME ITS TIME ITS TIME ITS TIME

[tanuki-kimono]

Hello! i saw your kimono drawing guide, and i have some questions. I saw this art and was wondering about a few things: what is the tied knot& tassel things on the sleeves for? and, what hairstyle is the lady wearing? If you know, please tell me! If you don't know, could it be possible to direct me to someone that might? Thank you for taking the time to answer, if you're able! Have a lovely night/day!

Hi and thank you for your question :) The ukiyoe you are sharing is by Utagawa Kunisada and titled Genji rokujo no hana (源氏六條の花), or "Cherry Blossoms at Genji's Rokujô Mansion". It is part of a three prints set:

It depicts an imaginary scenery from The tale of Genji, and the young lady playing with her pet cat is the princess Onna San no Miya.

Characters are not shown wearing period accurate clothes (from Heian era), but luscious Edo period attires. Because of her rank, the young princess is wearing what Edo princesses would, especially the trademark hairstyle named fukiya 吹輪.

You'll find below a translation from a costume photobook I did a while ago. Note the big bridge style front hairpin, and the drum like one in the back. Princesses from the buke (samurai class) would also have dangling locks called aikyôge (I also found the term okurege), but I am not sure kuge princesses (noble class) wore them too.

There is a whole dispute about this hairstyle, as we are not actually sure it was worn as such by actual princesses. This style may have in fact started as a somehow cliché bunraku/kabuki costume used to depict princesses (think a bit like Western Cinderella-types princess gowns). Nowadays, it is found only as a theater style, or worn by Maiko during Setsubun season.

For comparison, here is character Shizuka Gozen from kabuki play Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura:

As for the dangling cords, I covered those in a past ask about kamuro that you can find here (part 1 / part 2). TL:DR: I am still not sure what is the exact name for those decorations (kazari himo? sode no himo?).

But their use is pretty much linked to 3 things:

1) luck + protection (knots have auspicous meanings),

2) reinforcing weak points of garnment (here: sleeves wrist opening)

3) cuteness impact, as much like furisode (long sleeves kimono) those dangling ribbons were mostly seen on girls/young unmarried ladies by the Edo period

All the design elements chosen by Utagawa Kunisada for his Onna San no Miya stress own young and carefree she is still (which considering her narrative arc is in fact a bit sad... like all Genji Monogatari stories). BUT: bonus points for pet cat!

Hope that helps :)

[bluelocksource]

Yukimiya Kenyū’s trivia (source: twt & Egoist Bible 1 & 2).

"Move aside, I don't have time!"

☆ Character's colour: Red orange.

☆ Weapons:

Dribbling and gyro shoot. (EB1) Dribbling, gyro shot, instant vertical strike. (EB2)

☆ Nickname: ‘1on1 Strongest Prince’.

☆ Birthday: 28th April.

☆ Current age: 18 (3rd year of high school)

☆ Zodiac: Taurus.

☆ Birthplace: Miyazaki Prefecture.

☆ Family: Mother. Father. Himself.

☆ Current height: 184 cm.

☆ Dominant foot: Right foot.

☆ Visual acuity: Not good, need glasses.

☆ Blood type: O.

☆ Starts playing football: At age 7 (suggested by his mother).

☆ Personal 50M run record: 5.91 seconds.

☆ Team before joining BLUE LOCK: Soranin / Kūnin High School Soccer Club.

☆ Motto: "Give your all in a single moment."

☆ Favorite food: Blueberries. “They’re good for your eyes.”

☆ Disliked food: Garlic. “I feel like my vision is turning yellow.”

☆ Favorite animal: Penguins. "I think it’s fascinating how they waddle cutely on land but extremely fast when they swim."

☆ Favorite season: Spring. ”Because I like cherry blossoms.”

☆ Favorite football player: Edgar Davids.

☆ Favorite music: ‘Phoenix’ by SEKAI NO OWARI.

☆ Favorite manga: Oyasumi Punpun.

☆ Favorite movie: Evangelion “The older version. Asuka’s sky burial was excellent, wasn’t it?”

☆ Favorite TV show: FOOTxBRAIN (TV Tokyo).

☆ Favorite celebrity: Yo Yoshida. “There’s something pleasant about a cool woman.”

☆ Favorite brand: Oakley (goggle brand).

☆ Ideal type: Someone who smiles a lot and watches over him.

☆ Hobby: Modelling.

☆ Mushroom shoots vs Bamboo shoots: Mushroom. “Because of its cute shape.”

☆ What goes best with rice : Shirasu. "Pickled egg and green onion shirasu rice are delicious. Why don’t you try it?"

☆ What makes him happy: Warm support.

☆ What makes him upset: “Someone beat me in 1on1.”

☆ What he thinks his strength is: The most competitive person in the world, and strict with himself.

☆ What he thinks his weakness is: “I am too strict with myself and not interested in other people’s business.”

☆ Favorite/Best subject: Science, Japanese, P.E.

☆ Dislike/weak subject: Art. “Drawing makes my eyes tired.”

☆ What made him cry recently: “I won’t tell you. It’s embarrassing.”

☆ Usual sleeping time: 8 hours.

☆ What he usually ends up buying from convenience store: Hot eye mask. “To warm my eyes.”

☆ Place he washes first when taking a bath: His forehead hairlines.

☆ Fixation: With ephemeral things like cherry blossoms, sparklers, etc.

☆ Number of chocolates received from previous Valentine: “I didn’t count. I only ate the ones that arrived at my agency, there’s lots of them.”

☆ At what age he experiences first love: At age 10. “With my friend’s 16-year-old sister.”

☆ The first time he got confessed to: “My friend’s older sister kissed me on the forehead. Got embarrassed and ran away.”

☆ What will he do if received 100 million yen: “I don't know. I’m not interested in money.”

☆ At what age he stops receiving presents from Santa: At age 12. “Santa seems to be excluding the middle school students.”

☆ What was his last wish from Santa: Running glasses.

☆ How he spent his holiday: Reading. “I like learning about the lives of famous people.”

☆ What will he do during his last day on Earth: “Thanking my parents for bringing me into this world.”

☆ Favorite historical figure: "Minamoto no Yoshitsune. He lived with glory and tragedy, a fighter."

☆ If he hadn't encountered soccer, what will he be doing:  "That’s impossible. God will definitely make me meet soccer."

☆ If he could only take one thing to a deserted island, what would it be: Glasses. "I can't see anything without them!"

☆ If he had a time machine, would he go to the past or the future: The future. "I want to know if medicine will be able to cure any disease."

Last updated: 1/11/2024

note: i want to apologize in advance for any mistake made in the translation!

[dailydemonspotlight]

Nue - Day 153

Race: Wilder

Arcana: Death

Alignment: Dark-Neutral

January 15th, 2025 (Published Jan. 16th)

Many yōkai have been recorded throughout Japanese history, and they've made up the ranks of some of the most iconic creatures in folklore. While mostly relevant to weird history/mythology nerds like me, many yōkai have breached the cultural barriers of Japan and became mainstays throughout a lot of mythological circles. This can be seen in many places, such as how Kappa and Tanukis have become associated with Japan in general, or how you can't take 2 steps into an anime convention without seeing a Kitsune. However, the conceptions of these mythical creatures didn't all come around at the same time- they weren't all from some folkloric story or discovered huddled in a cave, and we can actually trace back some of the earliest yōkai all the way back to the earliest histories of Japan. One such yōkai is today's Demon of the Day, and a pretty recurring one at that, appearing in most SMT and Persona games- Nue.

The Nue first appears in the Kojiki, one of the most important and foundational texts of Japanese history, though in a form completely different than one might expect- the name 'Nue' essentially means Night Bird, and that's what it was described as, being a bird that crowed all night. This bird would crow mournfully in the forest at night, and during the eternal night, it was gathered alongside its fellows to sing a song to bring about day again. At least, I *think* that's what the footnote in the Kojiki is talking about when it refers to the birds? They're called the 'long-crying birds of Tökö-yö,' and given the translation to night birds, as well as the association of Tökö-yö in the text with the eternal night, it sorta makes sense in my head.

Still, you didn't ask for my translation rambles, so... whatever. The Kojiki only mentions them very briefly from what I can tell, and what we really wanna focus on today is a later (but still very early) text called Tale of the Heike. Contained within many plays and poems, the epic recounts the story of the end of the Genpei War and the struggles between the Taira and Minamoto clans for control over Japan. This text also contains all sorts of works about none other than my MAN Yoshitsune, and many of its stories surround him and his clan's conflict with the Taira, who are shown in the midst of a downfall that ends with their collapse.

Now, where does the Nue come into play here? It appears in the form we know it as today in SMT- a beast who resides within the clouds and has the head of a monkey, body of a raccoon dog, limbs of a tiger, and the tail of a snake. Within the Tale of the Heike, the Nue appears as the antagonist of a story wherein the emperor of Kyoto, a man named Emperor Konoe, begins to fall mysteriously ill. No treatments seemed to work, and as his situation grew worse, his disciples began to realize that the curse could be attributed to an evil spirit who was visiting every night, and, finally, the Nue appears! Only took the entire DDS. As the days went on, the Nue grew more and more aggressive, eventually throwing bolts of lightning down at the emperor's home, and, desperate, the man called upon one of the Minamoto clan to help him.

After summoning the legendary samurai Minamoto no Yorimasa to his quarters, the man brought along his bow and a companion, setting up for an ambush. As the Nue went to attack, descending within a black thundercloud with a harsh wind, Yorimasa opened fire and struck the Nue, hitting it out of the cloud as it screamed like a bird. *Hey, there's the night bird influence!* I no Hayata, Yorimasa's companion, landed the killing blow on the Nue and in an instant the Emperor's sickness was gone. And that's... about it, honestly. We don't have much else on the Nue, but from what we do know, it's a very strange being- curses, lightning, and much more make it an interesting being to even conceive of, alongside its mishmashed appearance. So, yeah!

[reccyls]

i got hit by a wave of homesickness for ikemen genjiden so i've started a translation project for the Bonds of the Past story for Yoritomo and Yoshitsune

and it hurts so much 😭😭

-

-

-

[adachimoe]

Do you know anything about the Adachi anthology manga? Is it translated by any chance? (would you be willing to translate it 👀?)

I own it and I've read through it. Idk if it's been translated, but tbh I'm not particularly interested in doing it myself. Anthologies are collections of fan creator works that get officially published. The content is comparable to a fanzine centered around Adachi featuring different creators. E.g. this artist drew the cover. I am currently reading through like 20 old issues of Persona Magazine.

Bad summaries, partially from memory:

Chp 1: After encountering the nimono lady and her son in Junes, Yu appears on Adachi's doorstep dressed as a mother and proceeds to roleplay as Adachi's mom. This includes bothering him at Junes like the old woman did.

Chp 2: Adachi puts money into a vending machine while patrolling with Dojima, but before he can select a drink, he and Dojima need to apprehend a suspect. Later, Yu sees Adachi at Junes and gives him his money back.

Chp 3: While slacking off at Junes and leering at Yasogami High school girls with short skirts, Adachi bumps into Yosuke and notices that Yosuke has a photo of himself and Saki as his phone wallpaper. Yosuke says he'll never be able to forgive whoever murdered her.

Chp 4: Adachi accidentally handcuffs himself to a corn husk. Chie and Yukiko free him by feeding the corn some of Yukiko's curry.

Chp 5: Knowing he'll lose a 1v8, Adachi studies the Investigation Team's affinities and attacks them with their weaknesses, like sending the beetle-looking Shadow to attack Chie. But when Yu and Adachi have their final battle, Yu summons Yoshitsune instead of Izanagi.

Chp 6: Yu invites Adachi to Shiroku Pub to talk to some girls, but when he gets there, he's met by… Yu's friends in their crossdressing pageant outfits, and he ends up playing the pocky game with Kanji (2 people bite down on pocky from opposite ends, kinda Lady and Tramp style).

Chp 7: Adachi does a magic trick for Teddie after running into him. When Adachi leaves, Teddie cries about being lonely again, but Adachi tells him that Nanako is at the Dojima house.

Chp 8: While waiting for the Investigation Team to enter Magatsu Inaba, Adachi, Magatsu-Izanagi, and the Shadows make dinner.

Chp 9: Adachi tries to slack off by pretending to have a toothache, and runs into Kanji outside the Inaba Dental Clinic. He gives him shit, assuming Kanji is afraid of the dentist. The next week, Adachi sees Kanji there again, but it turns out he was helping his mom.

Chp 10: Adachi and Nanako housesit the Dojima family home, doing chores and cooking dinner. Unfortunately, she received cooking advice from Chie and Yukiko.

Chp 11: After the fight with Adachi, Yu talks to him before they return to the real world. Adachi admits to himself the Dojima family's kindness touched him.

Chp 12: After the usual gas station attendant collapses, Adachi ends up helping out at Moel Gas Station, and Yu stops by to get his scooter filled up.

Chp 13: A recap of Adachi's life in Inaba and his interactions with the Dojimas, leading up to Yu confronting him. When Yu asks him why he did all this, Adachi summons his Persona and says he'll teach Yu about how shitty the world is.

I cbf to read thru a 150 pg anthology again (* ￣︿￣)

[ga-yuu]

Yoshitsune Main Route Summary (10 to 14)

I have already finished translating up to half of chapter 10. If you haven't read it, go to this - link

So let's continue....

Yoshi baby was playing his flute in the garden and Yoshino heard him. Yoshitsune tells her that normally he would be surrounded by small animals from every corner of the mansion when he plays his flute and he doesn't know why? Yoshino giggles and she asks if he could play it once more because she wants to hear it. Yoshitsune nods and starts playing.

As Yoshino was carefully listening while siting under a tree, suddenly she sensed a presence. Even Yoshitsune too. They both looked to a certain direction and there was a demon. Yoshino was terrified because she was only used to seeing beautiful demons like Tamamo and Kurama (right now Ibuki is not in game) and this demon was creepy-looking. Yoshino started to tremble but Yoshitsune remained expressionless. He curiously asks if she is scared? And Yoshino nods saying that she doesn't have that much experience with demons.

Yoshitsune stands in front of her to protect her and raised his sword. He threatened to kill the demon if he comes any closer and the demon disappears without causing any trouble. Yoshino asks if Yoshitsune was scared seeing the demon? but Yoshitsune tells her that he is used to seeing creepy looking demons since childhood. Then he starts sharing his backstory about the time he lived in the monk temple when he was a kid. Because of his soul, he was outcasted by the humans living in the temple and he was also the favorite food for demons. Creepy looking demons were chasing him everyday to eat his soul. But luckily he was saved by Kurama and that's how their friendship began. Kurama told Yoshitsune that his soul is unique and that he will conquer it after its fully polished and shining. Yoshitsune also promised that he would give his soul to Kurama when he dies.

Yoshino, after hearing the sad story, started feeling bad for Yoshitsune. But she was at least happy that Yoshitsune was opening up to her. But to her surprise things starts to develop really quick! Next day, Yoshitsune comes to visit her and tells her that he will be going away for a war. He informed her that he will come back after a week or so and Yoshino also nodded promising that she will not try to escape.

After a week, Yoshitsune returns. Yoichi drags Yoshino out of her room to get her to welcome Yoshitsune. When they both see each other at the entrance, Yoshitsune looked surprised. Yoshino shyly welcomes him for coming home safely. Yoshitsune smiled and said 'I'm home' and started making his way to his room. But something felt off. Yoshino noticed that Yoshitsune was walking differently. She immediately stops him and asks if he is injured? Yoshitsune was silent.

Yoichi quickly interrupts them and checks Yoshitsune to make sure and yep! He had a deep battle scar on his arm. Yoshino doctor instincts kicks in and immediately she offered to treat his injury. Yoshitsune tries ignoring her but seeing both Yoichi and Yoshino's persistence, he gave in. They both go to Yoshitsune room and Yoshitsune removes his upper part of his kimono for fanservice *ahem* I-I mean...for treatment. Yoshino also didn't expect Yoshitsune to have abs because on the outside he is very slim. Anyways, she begins her treatment.

After the treatment was, Yoshino tells him that he must not go out and do rigorous training or swing his sword until the wound fully heals and Yoshitsune nods without meeting her eyes. Of course Yoshitsune is a good boy because the very next day, she sees Kurama and Yoshitsune playing avengers inside his room. Kurama was flying around the room and Yoshitsune was attacking him from the ground with his sword.

Yoshino immediately stops both of them and asked what they were doing. Kurama was pissed that she interrupted them and Yoshitsune tells her that, Kurama is demon who doesn't like boredom. So in order to get rid of it, he would come challenge him to a fight or attack him out of nowhere for pure fun. Even right now, when Yoshitsune was casually entering his room, Kurama attacked him from inside the room and that's how they started their 'training'.

Yoshino facepalms and reminded him that Yoshitsune wasn't suppose to fight or train or swing his sword. Yoshitsune tilted his head and asked her if he is not even allowed to have a light training session too? and Yoshino nods. Kurama glares at Yoshino but Yoshino told Kurama that Yoshitsune body needs rest in order to recover soon. Hearing that Kurama reluctantly agreed and left the room.

After that, both Yoshitsune and Yoshino were alone. Yoshitsune took this opportunity to thank Yoshino for her treatment. He proposed that they go out and he shows her around Hiraizumi. Yoshino tries to shake her head saying that it's okay but who can say no to those pure amethyst eyes? I dare you! Try it! You can never!

Yoshino was waiting outside the mansion for Yoshitsune to come. After few minutes, Yoshitsune shows up with his horse. Yoshino was surprised because she thought that they were just going to town by foot. Yoshitsune asks if she rode a horse before and Yoshino shakes her head. He gets on top of it and offered his hand to her. Yoshino grabs on it and Yoshitsune made her sit in front of her. In this position, Yoshino could slightly feel Yoshitsune's broad chest touching her and she starts to blush. Thinking that she is trembling, Yoshitsune curiously asks if she is scared and Yoshino grabbed onto this opportunity thinking that if she lied about being scared of horses then he would drop the idea of going to the town on a horse. But Yoshitsune like any male lead was one step ahead of her took that as a opportunity to hold her even closely. With a lovely smile, he puts his arm around her waist and pulled her even close. This time, Yoshino's body can literally absorb Yoshitsune's heat.

Yoshitsune smiled and promised her that, the horse is well trained and if anything happens, he will be there for her. Hearing that, Yoshino gave up resisting and Yoshitsune wins. They go to town and the townspeople were all smiling and greeting Yoshitsune. Seeing that Yoshino realised that Yoshitsune is really loved by his people.

After going around town, they stopped at a flower field to rest. While resting, Yoshino asked about his relationship with the townspeople and Hiraizumi as a whole. This time, he shared about how he came to Hiraizumi, which was under the Fujiwara Clan and after the head of Fujiwara clan died, he had to step in and take the position of the leader. Although not as good as Yoritomo, Yoshitsune , in his own way, tried his best to reconstruct Hiraizumi and bring peace to people. After sharing stories, Yoshino started feeling more closer with Yoshitsune...because...

After few days, Yoshino was checking his injury and it was healing but not fully healed yet. She once again reminded him not to train and Yoshitsune look away and promises her that he won't train. Sensing that he is lying, Yoshino playfully told him that she would report to Benkei if she finds him training and Yoshitsune immediately begs her not to do that. Yoshino left the room while giggling and suddenly crosses paths with Kurama in the hallway.

[gramarye]

Had to upload this here too since I haven't seen it mentioned anywhere in English?! Translated this bit from the anime for my friend and christ I love Crow. 55 counts of trespassing and 14 rehabilitation programs.

The other interesting fact I haven't seen mentioned is that his name is a reference to famous samurai Minamoto no Yoshitsune, who received the title Kurō Hōgan (九郎判官) from the imperial court. Not sure if it's intentional that Hogan is also an Irish name and he is ginger, but hey, it's very funny we have this Irish-coded Japanese history reference in 5D's.

[aishangotome]

Minamoto no Yoshitsune: Chapter 5

Chapter 4

♡———♡

Yoshino: Yoshitsune-sama…?

???: …

When I called out to him hesitantly, the man turned around and removed his mask…

Yoshitsune: How did you know?

He tilted his head in wonder.

(It really was Yoshitsune-sama!)

Yoshino: Wh-Why are you... here of all places...?

(I thought the next time we'd meet would be on the battlefield...)

I called out to him on impulse, but my body stiffened at the realization that I was alone with an enemy commander, and I took a step back.

Yoshitsune: Don't be so wary. I have no intention of causing a commotion here.

Yoshino: Is that so...?

(But I can't imagine him coming to enemy territory alone. He must have someone with him...)

As I looked around, Yoshitsune-sama spoke as if he had read my mind.

Yoshitsune: I came to Kamakura alone.

Yoshitsune: I didn't even tell Benkei and the others. I infiltrated under the cover of the festival's commotion.

Yoshino: Infiltrated...?

To my question, Yoshitsune-sama kept his distance and threw out words.

Yoshitsune: Well, you've discovered my true identity, haven't you?

Yoshitsune: It was a waste, even though I tried to appear with a mask I luckily had with me.

(He went through the trouble of wearing a mask to hide his identity from me. But...)

Yoshino: Why did you even have a mask in the first place? Was it perhaps for a disguise or something...?

Yoshitsune: No.

He looked down at the fox mask, looking a little disappointed.

Yoshitsune: I don't dislike the festival atmosphere. I thought I could enjoy it a little.

(Wh-What an unexpected reason!)

(Is Yoshitsune-sama... a bit of an airhead?)

Yoshitsune: ––Anyway,

Yoshitsune: I promise I won't harm Yoshino tonight.

Yoshitsune: In exchange, you must not make a fuss until I leave.

(So it's not reconnaissance either?)

Yoshitsune-sama's straightforward words didn't seem to contain any lies.

(I know it's dangerous to trust an enemy commander, but...)

(Yoshitsune-sama kept his promise to 'spare me' before.)

(And most of all, he saved me when I was about to be assaulted by bandits.)

Encouraged by this fact, I lowered my guard.

Yoshino: Um, it's a bit late to ask, but why did you save me?

Yoshitsune: That's...

Yoshitsune-sama opened his mouth slowly, his expression unchanged.

Yoshitsune: I have no right to judge you either.

Yoshitsune: It leaves a bad taste to ignore someone when you have the means to help.

(Ah––)

**cabin flashback**

Yoshitsune: Why did you help him, knowing he was your enemy?

Yoshino: What…?

Yoshitsune: Answer me.

Yoshino: Well…

Yoshino: …I’m a pharmacist.

Yoshino: Having the means to treat someone and yet ignoring an injured person right in front of you is akin to being a murderer.

**end of flashback**

Back then, Yoshitsune-sama dismissed me, but he also said... "Everyone has contradictions."

(If he hates Yoritomo-sama enough to borrow the power of ayakashi,)

(Then surely he should kill me, who cooperates with Yoritomo, by any means necessary.)

And yet, Yoshitsune-sama extended a helping hand to me in my time of need.

Yoshino: Th... thank you, Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoshitsune: I did it of my own accord.

His nonchalant dismissal of his actions felt somewhat dazzling.

––At the same time, I recalled the day I saw Yoshitsune-sama in battle.

(I was chilled when I saw him charge towards the enemy without fear of injury.)

He skillfully maneuvered his horse, advancing towards the enemy.

Many soldiers were repelled by the overwhelming difference in strength.

(And yet...)

No matter how skilled he is in tactics, no matter how dangerous his fighting style, Yoshitsune-sama always sticks to his principles in the end.

(I don't think Yoritomo-sama would fight so recklessly. But...)

**imperial palace flashback**

Yoritomo: I intend to guarantee your personal safety, at the very least, since I’m bringing a mere woman onto the battlefield.

Yoritomo: However, there’s no such thing as absolute safety, as you experienced in the previous battle.

Yoritomo: Even so, it is the shogunate’s decision to continue involving you in this matter.

Yoritomo: Therefore, if you choose to cooperate with us of your own volition, it would be only fair to guarantee you better treatment than before.

**end of flashback**

(The more I get to know Yoritomo-sama, the more I feel that he is a fair person, even if it's hard to understand.)

(... There are some similarities between Yoritomo-sama and Yoshitsune-sama after all.)

The fact that these two were enemies caused a sharp pain in my chest.

Yoshitsune: Yoshino? Is something wrong?

Yoshino: ...N-No, it's nothing.

I was startled to realize that I had unconsciously clenched my fingers.

Yoshitsune: I see. Then, I must be going.

(...!)

As Yoshitsune-sama turned to leave, I called out to him on impulse.

Yoshino: Wait!

Yoshitsune: What is it?

(Oh no, I just...)

I was confused, not knowing why I had called out to him.

But for some reason, I felt like I shouldn't just let him go like this.

My eyes suddenly fell on the package I was holding.

Yoshino: ...Do you dislike dango?

Yoshitsune: ...Dango?

Yoshino: I just bought it at a stall. Would you like to eat it as a thank you for helping me?

Yoshitsune: There's no need for thanks. I did it of my own accord.

Yoshino: That's not how it works. I'd feel bad if I didn't do anything...

Yoshino: Ah, perhaps you don't eat dango? Should I have bought something else?

(Was it rude to offer food from a stall in the first place...?)

Yoshitsune-sama furrowed his brow slightly, as if a little perplexed by my anxious rambling.

Yoshitsune: That's not the case, but...

Yoshino: Th... then, please.

Yoshitsune: Very well.

(Thank goodness...)

We sat side by side on the stone steps, and I quickly took out the dango.

Yoshino: Here you go.

Yoshitsune: Ah. Thank you.

Yoshitsune-sama received the dango and casually popped it into his mouth.

Yoshino: Wow... It's so chewy and delicious.

Yoshitsune: ...Indeed.

(I should buy some for Tamamo as a souvenir.)

(Ah, but he's a gourmet, so he might say, "Dango from a stall?")

Yoshitsune: ............

(Huh? ...He seems to be frozen.)

Yoshino: ...Lord Yoshitsune? Did you not like it?

Yoshitsune: The taste is fine.

Yoshitsune: ...But this dango is quite chewy and a bit of a struggle.

Yoshitsune: It's difficult to time the chewing.

(Eh?)

Yoshino: Does that mean you don't like chewy things?

Yoshitsune: It seems so. It makes me sleepy while eating.

(Yet another unexpected side of him...)

(The difference between his appearance and his demeanor on the battlefield is truly extreme!)

Yoshino: I'm sorry, I didn't know... I should have gotten something else.

Yoshitsune: It's alright.

Yoshitsune: Your gratitude has been conveyed sufficiently.

Yoshino: Yoshitsune-sama...

(He really is... a sincere person through and through.)

--CHOICES--

You're so kind

Thank you

I'll choose something different next time

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

Yoshino: You're kind.

Yoshitsune: I merely stated the obvious.

Yoshitsune: But if that's how you see it, then so be it.

Having finished the dango, Yoshitsune-sama mutters to himself.

Yoshitsune: ...What a pleasant breeze.

The leaves rustle in the night wind, creating a soothing sound.

As I listen to the sound of the leaves and look up at the night sky, I see a pale moon floating.

Yoshitsune: The moon is beautiful tonight.

Yoshitsune: The moon seen in Hiraizumi is no different in beauty from the moon seen in Kamakura.

(Speaking of which...)

Yoshitsune-sama's words remind me of our first encounter.

Yoshino: You said you came to Kamakura alone, didn't you, Yoshitsune-sama?

Yoshitsune: If Benkei-san knew, he would nag me endlessly.

(Benkei-san... is that the scary-looking guy?)

(He's surprisingly overprotective...)

Yoshino: Why did you come all the way to Kamakura?

Yoshitsune: Well...

Yoshitsune-sama's eyes seemed to darken in the night.

A brief silence filled the air as I held my breath, and then a low voice echoed in the wind.

Yoshitsune: I wanted to see the town I would eventually destroy one last time before the battle.

(The last time...?)

Yoshino: Have you been to Kamakura before?

Yoshitsune: I stayed here when I was under Yoritomo-sama.

Yoshitsune: I was quite fond of Kamakura, but...

Yoshitsune: Shortly after the war with the Heike, I was exiled by Yoritomo-sama.

Yoshino: That's terrible...

(To think that it was his own brother who exiled him...)

Yoshitsune: That's why I came here to burn this last image into my memory.

Yoshitsune: ...The town and its people. They haven't changed from my memories.

Various emotions cast fleeting shadows on his sculpted, white profile.

Only he could know what those feelings were.

(But... I feel like I've touched Yoshitsune-sama's heart a little.)

We both fell silent, lost in our own thoughts, when––

???: Hey, hey...

(A child's voice...?)

A small boy emerged from the trees.

Boy: ...Oh man, he's not here either.

Yoshino: What's wrong? Are you looking for someone?

Boy: Ah, there are people here!

The boy notices us and approaches.

Boy: Have you seen my little brother? He's wearing a blue kimono...

Yoshino: No, I haven't seen him.

Boy: I see...

Yoshitsune-sama suddenly speaks to the dejected boy.

Yoshitsune: Did you get separated?

The boy flinches at the quiet question, then nods timidly.

Boy: Yeah... We had a fight, and he ran off.

Yoshino: Oh dear, that's worrying.

(With so many people in town, it must be hard to find someone once you're separated...)

Boy: It was his fault to begin with. But maybe I got too angry...

Boy: ...I looked everywhere, but I couldn't find him.

The boy clenches his small hands and tears well up in his eyes.

Boy: He must hate me now...

(Ah... It's easy to feel insecure after a fight.)

Yoshino: It's alright––

As I start to speak--

Yoshitsune: There's no brother who can easily hate his older brother.

(Yoshitsune-sama...?)

Yoshitsune-sama's words made the boy blink.

Boy: Really...?

Yoshitsune: Yes.

Yoshitsune-sama gently placed his hand on the boy's head.

Yoshitsune: But it's better to get along from now on.

Yoshitsune: ––Because people can't always walk the same path forever.

(Ah...)

Yoshitsune-sama's profile, illuminated by the moonlight, floated whitely in the darkness.

(I've never seen anyone with such a sad face.)

Even though his expression shouldn't have changed...

My heart tightened at the emotions quietly swirling in his eyes.

(Why does he look like that?)

I was incredibly curious, but...

(...I need to think about this child right now.)

I met the boy's eyes and spoke to him gently.

Yoshino: If you'd like, I can help you look for him.

Boy: Really?

Yoshino: Of course!

Yoshitsune: Then I shall join the search as well.

Yoshino: Really!?

Boy: Th-Thank you, big brother, big sister!

(But...)

I whispered to Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoshino: Is it alright? What if someone sees your face?

Yoshitsune: No one would think I'd be attending a festival with women and children.

Yoshino: Ah, that's true...

Yoshitsune: Besides, if need be, I can carve a path for myself even if I become a fugitive.

(He's that confident in his abilities.)

Yoshino: ...I understand. If you say so.

Yoshitsune-sama nodded once and looked around.

Yoshitsune: We haven't seen your brother since we've been here. Let's go out into the town.

Yoshino: Yes, he might be wandering around, drawn by the festival sounds.

I held out my hand to the boy.

Yoshino: Let's hold hands so we don't get separated, okay?

Boy: Okay!

The boy smiled brightly and took my hand.

Then, he boldly reached out his other hand to Yoshitsune-sama.

Boy: Here, big brother!

Yoshitsune: .....

(Wow...)

Yoshino: Um, this person... well, he's not the type to do that sort of thing...

Yoshitsune: Is this alright?

(Eh?)

Yoshitsune-sama, who had taken the boy's hand, asked flatly.

Boy: Yeah! Let's go, let's go!

Yoshino: W-Wait...!

I was pulled along by the boy, who started walking excitedly.

(...This feels strange. How do we look to others?)

(We certainly don't look like a family.)

Perhaps because the festival music was getting closer, I felt strangely restless.

(I wonder what Yoshitsune-sama is thinking?)

I glanced at his white profile, but as usual, I couldn't read his expression.

-

The town was even more crowded than before.

Yoshitsune: He doesn't seem to be here... Let's try looking over there.

Yoshino: Yes.

(I hope we find him soon...)

Boy: ...Ah!

Yoshitsune: What is it?

.

.

.

.

.

Chapter 5 Premium Story

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to buy me a coffee here! :)

[cheshireliam]

Minamoto no Yoshitsune Main Story: Chapter 18

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┊Genjiden Glossary

(Of course I’m prepared to be hated and to bear the pain, but…) 

(I don’t want to give up on saving Yoshitsune-sama’s heart.) 

…

Meanwhile, in another location—

After his release from being a hostage, Benkei returned to Hiraizumi and was sharing a meal with Yoshitsune.

Yoshitsune slowly brought the chopsticks to his mouth.

Benkei: How is it, Yoshitsune-sama? It’s been a long time since you’ve had my cooking.

Yoshitsune: It’s delicious. But the portions are too big.

Yoshitsune gestured at the array of dishes lining the table. 

Benkei: No, you must eat at least this much or I’ll feel troubled. 

Benkei: You have the tendency to neglect eating proper meals whenever there’s something weighing down on your mind, Yoshitsune-sama. 

Yoshitsune: Do you ever think that you're treating me too much like a child?

Benkei: Not at all. It’s just your imagination. 

Yoshitsune let out a small chuckle.

But then, his expression suddenly turned serious and he put the chopsticks down. 

Yoshitsune: Benkei.

Benkei: Yes? 

Yoshitsune: I’d like to formally thank you for enduring playing the role of a hostage.

Yoshitsune: You have fulfilled your duty well.

Benkei set his chopsticks down as well and straightened his posture.

Benkei: It is my honour to be of service to you, Yoshitsune-sama. 

Benkei: However, it was indeed unbearable being of such close proximity to those whom I loathe and yet was not able to lash out on.

Yoshitsune: That’s very like you. 

Yoshitsune: Was living in Kamakura uneventful?

Benkei nodded once in response to Yoshitsune’s question. 

Benkei: Indeed. Despite being placed under house arrest in a samurai residence, I didn't experience any hardship.

Yoshitsune: I’m relieved to hear that. 

A slight smile played on Yoshitsune’s lips as he continued to eat. 

However, his hands often paused.

Benkei silently observed Yoshitsune’s behaviour.

Benkei: Did something happen to you, Yoshitsune-sama?

Yoshitsune: What do you mean? 

Benkei: You barely touched your food. Is something on your mind? 

Yoshitsune: … No.

There was a slight delay before he answered, and Benkei naturally didn't fail to notice that. 

Benkei: Yoshitsune-sama— 

Just as Benkei was about to press further… 

Yoshitsune: …

The somber expression on Yoshitsune’s face made Benkei hold his tongue. 

A brief silence fell between the two. 

It was Benkei who eventually broke it. 

Benkei: By the way, did that fox woman sent by the Shogunate behave herself? 

Yoshitsune: — She didn't cause any problems in particular. 

Yoshitsune: But she did make it a little harder for me to fight in battle. 

Benkei: What are you talking about?

Yoshitsune: Because I came to know Yuno’s straightforward character.

Benkei: Yoshitsune-sama… 

The softness tinged with sorrow in Yoshitsune’s tone made Benkei widen his eyes. 

Yoshitsune: When interacting with Yuno, there were times I felt our hearts had grown closer. 

Yoshitsune: And yet, in the end, Yuno chose to side with the Shogunate.

Yoshitsune: I don't understand what's inside that heart of hers. 

Yoshitsune: One thing I know for certain is that Yuno will resent me if I defeat the Shogunate. 

There was a haunting clarity in Yoshitsune’s eyes that looked as though they were staring into the future. 

Yoshitsune: Even so, being hated by someone… is nothing new to me. 

Benkei: … I see. 

Benkei pressed his lips together, feeling conflicted. 

And then,— 

…

As soon as he was done having a meal with Yoshitsune, Benkei made his way to Yoichi’s room. 

Benkei: I’m coming in. 

Yoichi: Benkei?

Yoichi frowned, noticing that Benkei was behaving differently than usual. 

Benkei barged into the room and grabbed Yoichi by the collar. 

Yoichi: Oi, oi, what’s this about? You just barged in all of a sudden and— 

Yoichi: Did living in Kamakura for too long get to your head? 

Benkei: Cut the crap and give me a damn good explanation.

Yoichi: I don’t get it. What are you even talking about?

Benkei: Don’t play dumb. 

Benkei: Why did you let Yoshitsune-sama and that fox girl get involved with each other? 

Even with Benkei glaring at him, Yoichi didn’t flinch; and that only fueled Benkei’s fury. 

Yoichi: What? Don’t ask such boorish questions.

Yoichi: Yoshitsune-sama is in love with Yuno and that's it.

Benkei: Y-you… 

Benkei’s grip on Yoichi’s collar tightened.

Benkei: Do you know what you’re saying right now?

Yoichi: I’m not senile enough to not understand my own words. 

When Yoichi responded with a serious face, Benkei clicked his tongue and let go. 

Benkei: I was already suspicious when you were so insistent on taking specifically that fox girl as hostage. 

Benkei: — Was it your plan from the start for Yoshitsune-sama and that woman to “end up like this”?

Yoichi: Of course not. I can’t see that far into the future.

Yoichi: I did think it'd be a bonus if Yoshitsune-sama became interested in her, though. 

Yoichi: Besides, love isn't something you can consciously plan ahead or force. 

Yoichi: It just so happens that the person he’s fallen in love with is an enemy.

Benkei: What do you expect to gain from making Yoshitsune-sama feel conflicted!? 

Benkei raised his voice at Yoichi, who responded nonchalantly.

Benkei: You, of all people, should understand his pain.

Yoichi: I do understand it.

Yoichi: I’ve spent a long time by Yoshitsune-sama’s side, just like you. 

Yoichi: I fought alongside him when Yoritomo-kou raised his troops… and when he was betrayed.

Benkei: If that's the case—...

Benkei lowered his voice and fought to contain his emotions.

Benkei: If that's the case, you should know better than anyone that Yoshitsune-sama is as dangerous as he is strong! 

Yoichi remained firm under Benkei’s glaring, fully withstanding the weight of his words. 

Yoichi: What’s wrong with him feeling conflicted?

Yoichi: Such feelings are a part of life! The only people who never experience feelings of conflict are those who’ve already decided they’re ready to die.

Benkei: … 

Yoichi: Listen, Benkei. I know exactly what kind of sentiments are keeping you by Yoshitsune-sama’s side. 

Yoichi: I also know the intense emotions Yoshitsune-sama carries within him. 

Yoichi: Still… I don’t want to give up on that man. I don't want to give up on you either.

Neither man looked like they were going to back down.

Benkei: If that delusion of yours causes Yoshitsune-sama’s downfall, can you still say the same thing?

Yoichi: Of course. 

Yoichi: When that time comes… I’m ready to perish alongside him.

Benkei: … 

After a period of suffocating silence between the two…

Benkei: I’m not going to apologise. I still don't agree with you.

Ignoring his words, Yoichi avoided Benkei’s eyes.

Yoichi: — Want a drink?

Benkei: … 

Benkei turned and headed toward the door without looking back. 

He said to Yoichi as he opened it. 

Benkei: Go prepare it. I’ll whip up something simple. 

— As their conflicting ideals wove together into a complicated fate, the decisive battle drew close unsparingly. 

…

And then… 

(... It’s finally time for the battle.) 

The Shogunate’s forces marched north from Kamakura, and set up their main encampment at the planned site. 

Tamamo and I were with the main troop led by Yoritomo-sama. 

(I wonder if I brought enough medicine and bandages.)

(I prepared the bare minimum of tools to make more medicine along the way, but…) 

While the soldiers readied themselves for battle, I unpacked my supplies and checked through the medicine I brought.

Tamamo: Yuno.

Yuno: Oh, Tamamo. 

I turned around upon hearing someone call my name, and saw Tamamo. 

He carried a sword at his hip too today. 

Yuno: You’re going to fight with a sword too? 

Tamamo: It’s essential to carry a sword if I’m going to blend in with the humans. 

Tamamo: This is your second time getting onto the battlefield, Yuno. … Are you nervous? 

Yuno: Honestly, I am, but… this isn’t the time to let my nerves get the better of me. I must do my best.

Yuno: Because I’ve decided to put everything on the line for this battle. 

(Not only for the Shogunate… but for Yoshitsune-sama too.)

Tamamo: As expected of the woman I made a pact with. 

Tamamo: But still, there’s no need to get yourself too worked up.

Tamamo: After all, you’ve been working tirelessly in preparation for this battle ever since you returned to the Shogunate.

Tamamo: Not to mention that you’ve also been training for horseback riding and practicing absorbing ayakashi powers.  

Yuno: … Yeah. 

(Thanks to vigorous training, my horse riding skills have somewhat improved.) 

(I’ve also mastered absorbing curse powers from low-grade ayakashi using the tools Yasuchika-san prepared.) 

Tamamo: You’ve done everything you can, the rest is up to fate. 

Yuno: Thanks, Tamamo… 

(Tamamo really does pay close attention to people.) 

His warm words made the tension in my body ease a little. 

Yoritomo: You seem well-prepared.

Yuno: …! Yoritomo-sama 

Yoritomo-sama called out while walking toward us. 

Yoritomo: I must say, you’ve got some audacity to make such an outrageous request. 

Yoritomo: I still remember you whining and complaining when I first ordered you to stand on the battlefield after you came to the palace.

Yuno: I wasn't whining…!

(But it’s true that back then, I never would’ve imagined myself on the battlefield with such fierce feelings.)

Yuno: It still scares me to stand on the same ground where people are being killed, but…

Yuno: Thanks to the experience I had at that time, I feel like I’ve been able to better mentally prepare myself for this battle. 

(I’m grateful I was sent to the battlefield back then.) 

I smiled as I spoke to Yoritomo-sama. 

Moreover, it was also during that time on the battlefield that I had a fateful reunion with Yoshitsune-sama. 

(That bond is what’s supporting me right now.) 

Yoritomo: Good answer. 

Yuno: That said, because this will be the first time I’m using my abilities on my own will… 

Yuno: I’m not sure how things will turn out… 

(Even so, I’ll give it everything I’ve got!)

I looked at Yoritomo-sama and Tamamo with my renewed determination. 

Tamamo: Your ability is only to absorb the curse powers from ayakashi. As long as you don’t falter, you’ll succeed. 

Tamamo: However… as I mentioned before we departed, there’s a limit to how much curse powers a human vessel can handle. 

Yuno: Yes. My health will be affected if I exceed that limit, right? 

(I was told that it could cause a fever spike, or even make a person cough up blood…) 

Tamamo: Correct. In the worst case scenario, you might never wake up again. 

(... That’s how dangerous it is for a human to handle curse powers.) 

Tamamo: Don’t worry. It shouldn't be an issue unless you try to absorb the curse powers with a great amount of strong resolve. 

Yoritomo: As for physical combat, the Shogunate’s men have been ordered to protect you.  

Yoritomo: You focus on absorbing Yoshitsune’s curse powers. 

Yuno: Understood…!

Tamamo: By the way, Yoritomo. What’s the current situation?

Tamamo tilted his head slightly, his long hair swaying with the movement.

Tamamo: The vanguard should already be on the move, right?

Yoritomo: Yeah. 

Yoritomo: The speed of the enemy’s advances and their route match Kagetoki’s calculations.

Yoritomo: The Rebel Army’s troops heading south will soon clash with our vanguard. 

(... I hope no one gets hurt.)

Through working as an apothecary and helping out with various miscellaneous tasks, I’ve got to know many of the Shogunate’s soldiers. 

Kagetoki-san, Morinaga-san, and Shigehira-kun led their respective troops and took their positions.

Yoritomo: Once we receive confirmation of Yoshitsune’s location, it’s our turn to strike. 

Yuno: Understood. 

I secretly clenched my fingertips. 

Yuno: I’ll make sure I succeed!

Yoritomo: Don’t rush. Even though all you’re doing is absorbing curse powers, you don’t need to do it in one breath.

Yoritomo: Take your time to chip away at it. 

Yoritomo: It was never our plan to achieve instant victory. 

Tamamo: Gradually reducing the strength of his curse power while retreating to safety when necessary is our main strategy this time. 

Tamamo grinned confidently.

Yoritomo: Our formation is likely to fall into disarray amidst the chaos of battle. Since I’ll have to advance ahead of you two, Tamamo will lead you. Don’t become a lost child on a battlefield. 

Yuno: I’ll do my best! I’m counting on you, Tamamo. 

Tamamo: Leave it to me. 

A while later,—

…

Messenger: Yoritomo-sama!

A messenger came running and knelt in front of Yoritomo-sama. 

Messenger: The vanguard has confirmed Yoshitsune-sama’s presence! 

Yoritomo: I see. 

Yoritomo-sama’s response that was calm, yet overflowing with readiness for battle, made me gasp. 

Yoritomo: We march. — Bring the horses. 

…

At Yoritomo-sama’s command, the soldiers instantly lined up the battlefield. 

Tamamo: It’s finally time.

Yuno: … Yeah. 

Standing at the center of everyone’s gazes, Yoritomo-sama bore the image of the flawless Seiitaishogun. 

Yoritomo: — Nothing short of a victory will be accepted in this battle. 

Yoritomo: Do you all trust me with your lives?

The soldiers fell into complete silence, and the next moment, they responded in a resounding battle cry. 

(Amazing…!) 

Yoritomo: — Looks like I didn’t have to ask. 

Yoritomo: Now, there’s a possibility not all of us will survive! But glory shall be upon those who make it out alive! 

The main forces began their march at Yoritomo-sama’s signal. 

Yuno: Yoshitsune-sama… 

Yuno: It’s my own decision to stand on this battlefield. 

[ Flashback ]

Yoshitsune: — I see. 

Yoshitsune: Deep down, I already knew that. I knew you’d choose this path. 

Yoshitsune: In that case, from this moment on, you and I will return to being enemies.

Yuno: … Yes.

Yoshitsune: Farewell, Yuno.

Yoshitsune: Farewell, Yoshitsune-sama.

[ Flashback End ] 

(I’m coming for you, Yoshitsune-sama. … As your enemy.)

[crepes-suzette-373]

This is just a huge long winded post about how Germa reminds me of Japanese history and mythology, and some Wano things. Just so that it's all in one place and not scattered.

Very wild and goes all over the place, it's that conspiracy board with strings. I've been enabled by enablers.

WCI:

Related to the Nobunaga post (you probably need to read that one first).

Deep, deep reach here, and I feel like it's just bonkers connecting WCI to something as historically significant in Japan as The Honnouji Incident, and it doesn't even seem relevant at all. But. It was well known that Nobunaga was killed on the verge of reaching a big success.

He was on his way to oversee reinforcements being led to fight one of his biggest rivals, and anticipating that this will finally bring them down. Then one of his commanders betrayed him and he died with his heir. On the night before his death, he was having a glamorous tea party with the court nobles, not suspecting that anything was wrong.

Germa thought they were going to secure a big profit by allying with Big Mum, but are betrayed and they all almost died in a tea party where many VIPs from all over the world were present.

There's a lot of rain during WCI. I think it's just meant to relate to Sanji's mental state, because rain = sadness is a very common trope.

Still, very famous conspiracy related to the above historical incident was that the commander who did the betrayal was said to have written a poem that has the line translated something along the lines of "Now, the rain falls, on the fifth month" before committing the deed. This poem supposedly contains a hidden message that reveals his intention to betray.

Like I said the connection is very flimsy, that's why I doubt there's relevance.

Also in terms of more number 6 stuff, the above incident happened in history in the sixth lunar month (also in June, according to Western calendar).

Japanese crests:

More randomly throwing nonsense at the wall, but speaking of Japanese tradition, Ichiji's belt somewhat reminds me of some samurai house crest. I had been thinking about this a lot since I've been going through traditional Japanese designs in making the youkai AU:

And on the subject of Japanese designs, "lightning/thunder" is actually traditionally depicted as a "square spiral". In patterning (like clothes or paintings), it can sometimes be embellished into a shape that vaguely resembles a swastika.

I just thought the swirly pattern is interesting. It's square, while Sanji and the others are round spiral shapes, so it might not be relevant. I just thought of this because of the lightning bolt in the Germa skull.

Wano:

Also. Probably just design coincidence, but... somehow their silhouette is similar (same big fluffy hair, the coat's cut flares like a kimono):

I mean, not saying the Vinsmoke family is related to the Kozuki, just the Wano people in general. I mentioned once that I thought young Judge kind of looks like young Kin'emon.

Last thought. There is a conspiracy in Japan, where famous warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune didn't die like history said. He actually went to the mainland and became Genghis Khan.

This was part of what I was thinking, when I thought the Vinsmokes might have Wano origins. It's a story of "Japanese hero leaves Japan, becomes a ruler elsewhere".

Other random things that are probably even more not relevant, but doesn't help my conspiracy brain:

One of Nobunaga's sons who survived the chaos ended up in service of the conqueror who succeeded in unifying Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi (apparently according to Japanese text it's not Tokugawa like people think). This Hideyoshi is famously nicknamed "Monkey" in Japan (regardless of whether this is true or not)

Said son is infamous in Japanese perception for being "stupid" and "useless" because he is just absolutely terrible in warfare (not sure if this is necessarily true either, but well, I'm no historian). He's apparently very good in the arts, though.

In the linked post I mentioned of there being another son whose name is literally number 3 and 7 (Sanshichi) that makes me just giggle because of Sanji being 3 and 2. That third son is not the one who survived, but this one and his older brother was born so closely in timing (from different mothers) that people have argued that the order of the birth was incorrectly recorded.

Those two brothers were sometimes said to have issues with each other because of this. I don't think this is relevant, but this knowledge just makes Niji and Sanji's interaction seem funny to me.

[ask-misun-and-oc]

I want still play Ikemen Genjiden although it's discontinued

Misun!bot

I don't know why. Although it's very late, i want translate the main route of Ikemen Genjiden. There are reasons why i want it.

*There is Yoritomo*

I admit i love the design but not the personality... i hate it because of the real history. Well, mostly i love the design and the voice at first. The history also interesting. It's related to Battle of Atsukashiyama which appears in Touken Ranbu Hanamaru S2 (when Imanotsurugi has insecurities about when Yoritomo dared to kill Yoshitsune) and in Musical Touken Ranbu: Atsukashiyama Ibun. So, when i noticed Yoritomo in IkeGen, i remember "Battle of Atsukashiyama" in Touken Ranbu. Beside Battle of Atsukashiyama, some battle with Yoritomo's lore also included in game such as "Battle of Oshu". Overall, i love Yoritomo based on the design and the voice (and the route reminds me to Touken Ranbu).

*A good thing to build my saniwa lore*

In Eiga Touken Ranbu 2: Reimei, there is Ibuki which mean... Shuten Doji appears. So, when Ibuki debuted in IkeGen, i remember how he appeared and possesed a young man who is also named "Ibuki". Beside, Abe no Seimei also appeared in the movie. While in Ikemen Genjiden, Yasuchika is reincarnartion of Abe no Seimei. So... so much thing to know more about the route in Ikemen Genjiden to complete my saniwa lore. The main route (i mean the act 1 and act 2) is become a good story for a mission in Touken Ranbu fanfic. I mean Ikemen Genjiden told a story about what if Yoshitsune is still alive in Kamakura era (about 1193 A.D)

*Some Touken Danshi are related to the characters*

Let see the examples.

1. Benkei was told if he had collected a thousand swords, and Iwatooshi was rumored to be one of them. Then, both Imanotsurugi (rumored just like Iwatooshi) and Hizamaru belonged to Yoshitsune. While Yoritomo had Higekiri. Shishio also belonged to Yorimasa, Yoritomo's ally and perhaps he had ever taken care or even met Shigehira.

2. There are swords that belonged to Taira clan. They are Kogarasumaru and Nukemaru (and in IkeGen, the last survivor of Taira clan is Shigehira). Maybe Shigehira had relation to Taira no Masakado.

3. Back to event "Hyakki Yakou Operation" 2 months ago, there was a man with kitsune's mask. It confirmed if he is Kitsunegasaki which was forged during "Kagetoki's Incident" (Kagetoki hid in a place where Kitsunegasaki was forged)

4. Ibuki a.k.a Shuten Doji, back to in Heian period, was slain by Minamoto no Yorimitsu. The legend said Ibuki was slain using Dojigiri and Onimaru Kunitsuna. In IkeGen, he appears again, which mean... there is a potential he will be slain again by Onimaru or there will be a story when Bakufu army order Touken Danshi to slay Ibuki.

5. There are some yokaii that famous and Shishio told if he was used to slay Nue. Meanwhile in IkeGen, ayakashi is part of yokaii too, including Ibuki, Kurama Tengu, and Tamamo-no-Mae (oh, Rikka is ayakashi too). Who knows if Ibuki or Tamamo had ever meet Nue in the past. Higekiri who also known as "Onikiri" perhaps know well about Ibuki.

*Some characters are familiar*

Back to the reason why i love Yoritomo. Don't you notice if Yoritomo is much like Nobunaga? Their personality makes me think if Yoritomo is 'the ancient Nobunaga' or... Nobunaga is 'the copy of Yoritomo'. They are ambitious, teasingful, rude, arrogant, and possesive. Even both of them are pinned the MC in their route.

Beside that, there are some characters that familiar as i play games.

Sueharu is similar as Date Masamune and Shokudaikiri by the design.

Morinaga is similar as Date Masamune and Hideyoshi.

Yasuchika's clothes is similar as Mikazuki Munechika.

And again, Yoritomo. The face and the design are similar as Hijikata from Hakuoki (i mean look at the kimono. Both Hijikata and Yoritomo has purple kimono. Yoritomo's appearance also same as Hijikata with short hair).

The last one, Kurama Tengu. He is much like Hizen Tadahiro.

*Some accounts announced if they won't continue the route*

At first time i play, i felt difficult to read the route and then i stopped playing it. Yet, i started reading it again after know the translation. At least i know the summary and the selection. Or if i feel lazy to play it, i just read the translation from some account (btw thanks for @archiveikemen @aishangotome @ga-yuu / @gayuu-the-necromancer @sakura-samsara @dear-mrs-otome @aoi-aoi-chan and @shatcey for translating.)

Unfortunately some route were incomplete and some accounts decided to stop playing Ikemen Genjiden even permanently. So... i want to continue the incomplete one rather than waiting it although the game is discontinued. I'm still curious about Shigehira, Kagetoki, Tamamo, and Rikka.

So, it makes sense i had to know about the route.

[unhonestlymirror]

"Ushiwakamaru (Young Prince Minamoto no Yoshitsune) Learns the Art of Fencing from the Tengu, Watched Over by Their Master Sojobo", by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, 1855, details.

Btw, Lithuanians translated Sojobo as Sodžiobui.