#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! :)

[archiveikemen]

Minamoto no Yoshitsune Main Story: Chapter 15

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

Read this before interacting┊aikm’s Genjiden Glossary

Yuno: Matters between Yoshitsune-sama and I aside, I don’t think anyone has the right to allow or disallow people to get closer.

Kurama narrowed his eyes sharply.

Kurama: Are you trying to argue with me?

(What pressure…!) 

Kurama: Listen. Don’t act like some know-it-all.

Kurama: That guy’s soul is mine. We have a pact. 

(A pact…)

= Flashback Start =

Kurama: I did try to take the soul from Yoshitsune when he was dying... but he kept saying he wanted to live. 

Kurama: So we made a deal. The next time he's dying, I'll eat his soul.

= Flashback End =

(That’s what he said when I first met the two of them.)

(I know that Yoshitsune-sama has something he desperately wants to accomplish, even if it means costing him his life.) 

Kurama: The soul is the very foundation of what forms an individual.

Kurama: If his soul is mine, it means Yoshitsune is also mine, doesn't it?

Kurama: Yet, that man is reckless and dangerous. 

Kurama: To top it off, he’s even fooling around with some lass like you. 

(Huh? Could it be…)

Yuno: … Are you sulking?

Kurama: …

Kurama: What nonsense are you spouting?

(But his face tells me that he meant those words from the bottom of his heart…) 

Yuno: You’ve known Yoshitsune-sama for longer than anyone else, that’s why he’s important to you and you’re worried about him. Is that right  Kurama?

Kurama: Worried? Me? 

Kurama’s eyes widened slightly.

Yuno: Am I wrong?

Kurama: Of course you are. Don’t measure me by human standards of emotion. 

(But from the way he said it… I really do think that’s the case.)

Perhaps there were feelings hidden within Kurama’s heart that even he wasn’t aware of.

Kurama: … I feel like something’s off about me whenever I talk to you.

Kurama popped the last slice of mandarin into his mouth, looking displeased.

(Kurama is a terrifying ayakashi, but if I properly get to know him, he might actually have something in common with us humans.) 

The intimidation I felt from him lessened slightly. 

Kurama: I don’t get why Yoshitsune or Yoichi would be interested in a woman like you.

(Interested…?) 

Yuno: The reason why I’ve been frequenting Yoshitsune-sama’s room is to treat his injury.

Yuno: And Yoichi-san is purely being kind, there’s no deeper meaning behind it.

Yuno: I think they’re just looking out for me because I’m a hostage. 

Kurama: You’re one naive woman. 

Kurama’s voice sounded exasperated as he showed me no mercy with his words.

Kurama: In the first place, it was Yoichi who suggested taking you as a hostage.

Yuno: What…

(Yoichi-san… suggested taking me…?) 

My eyes widened in surprise at the completely unexpected revelation. 

Yuno: Why…?

Kurama: How would I know? 

Kurama: Yoshitsune eventually decided to go with that plan, citing some stupid reason like wanting to protect the lives of the people… 

Kurama: This won’t escape my eyes.

Kurama: For some reason, Yoichi became interested in you after hearing about Yoshitsune’s trip to Kamakura. 

(I didn't know that at all…)

But now Kurama mentioned it, it’s true that Yoichi-san has been especially kind towards me.

Yuno: Kurama. Thanks for telling me.

Yuno: I’ll ask Yoichi-san directly if there’s any reason behind it. 

Kurama: There’s no reason to be thanking me. You just became even more confusing.

Still not back to his usual self, Kurama replied curtly before turning his back to me.

Kurama: I’m leaving.

Yuno: Okay! See you. 

(Now…)

(As much as I want to ask Yoichi-san about it right away, I need to check on Yoshitsune-sama’s injury first.)

After parting ways with Kurama, I headed to Yoshitsune-sama’s room. 

…

Later that day, when the sky had turned a crimson red with the sunset… 

I had a maid pass Yoichi-san a message before paying a visit to his room.  

Yuno: Sorry for dropping by all of a sudden when you must be busy, Yoichi-san.

Yoichi: It’s okay. What did you want to talk to me about?

Yuno: I heard from Kurama that it was you who suggested to Yoshitsune-sama to take me as hostage. 

Yuno: … [frowns]

Yoichi-san fell silent. 

Yoichi: Oh? You’ve gotten surprisingly chummy with Kurama, huh. 

(Kurama would probably deny it immediately if he heard that…) 

Yoichi: I wasn’t exactly trying to keep it a secret, but I never thought Kurama would be the one to tell you.

Yuno: So it’s true then…

Yoichi: Yeah. It was me, Yoichi-san, who specifically nominated you as hostage. 

Yoichi-san spoke nonchalantly and winked.

Yuno: Why did you make such a suggestion?

Yoichi: Hmm, let me think.

Yoichi: Honestly, I’m not sure if I should tell you the reason.

Despite his usual lighthearted tone, his facial expression suddenly turning serious made my heart skip a beat.

Yoichi: I think you’d be better off not asking.

(I don’t know what Yoichi-san’s true intentions are, but…)

Yuno: I’ve already learnt a lot ever since coming to Hiraizumi.

(I’ve learnt that Yoichi-san, Kurama, and Benkei-san who’s currently a hostage in Kamakura are bound by companionship.)

(The people of Hiraizumi trust the Rebel Army…)

(And Yoshitsune-sama is a pure, fierce… yet dangerous person.)

I started having doubts because of the things I had come to know.

Yuno: If something’s bothering me, I want to bother so much about it that I won’t regret it later on. So, please.

Yuno: If there’s a specific reason why you requested for me as a hostage, I want you to tell me.

Yoichi: … Fine.

Yoichi-san let out a rare sigh.

Yoichi: You mustn’t reveal to anyone what I’m about to tell you. Of course, that includes Yoshitsune-sama.

Yuno: … I promise I won’t.

When I nodded, Yoichi-san turned to a shelf in his room.

He pulled out a box from deep within the shelf and placed it before me.

(What’s this…?)

Yoichi: Here we go.

He lifted the lid, and inside the box laid two old pieces of paper.

Yoichi-san carefully took the folded papers and spread them out.

Yuno: These are…

Yoichi: Death poems. By Yoshitsune-sama and Benkei. 

(D-death poems… they're something you write when you’re prepared to die.)

I felt the blood drain from my face as I looked up at Yoichi-san.

Yuno: Why do you have these…?

Yoichi: Back when Yoshitsune-sama was being hunted down by Yoritomo-kou’s forces, he exchanged this death poem with Benkei. 

Yoichi: I saw them being left behind at the old residence, so I quietly took them.

Yuno: Can I… read them?

Yoichi: Yeah. Go ahead. 

At Yoichi-san’s prompting, I slowly reached for one of the papers.

(This looks like Benkei-san’s poem.)

Yuno: Wait for me at the crossroads of the six realms… even if one of us were to arrive late or depart early…

In a low voice, I read aloud the poem written in skilled penmanship and signed off with Benkei-san’s signature.

Yoichi: “Please wait for me on the path to the afterlife. Even if the order of our deaths is reversed, we will meet again”...

Yoichi: Seriously, isn't it kind of funny for a guy like him to be lonely?

Yoichi-san was no longer smiling as he spoke.

Yuno: W-what was Benkei-san feeling… when he wrote this?

(... He must've felt resolved to follow Yoshitsune-sama even after death.)

Overwhelmed by the resolution and sorrow expressed through the poem, I couldn't say a word.

Yoichi: Want to see Yoshitsune-sama’s too? 

Yuno: … Yeah.

(I wonder what Yoshitsune-sama's response was…?) 

I nodded and unfolded the other piece of paper with slightly trembling fingers.

(This is Yoshitsune-sama’s signature…)

I read aloud the poem written in his beautiful penmanship.

Yuno: In the next life, and the life after that, let us meet again… until we reach the purple-coloured clouds in heaven. 

(This poem…)

I gasped, and Yoichi-san’s gaze fell.

Yoichi: No many how many times they’re reborn, they’ll meet each other again and go anywhere together— this is his answer. 

(... This poem is so fitting for Yoshitsune-sama.)

Somewhere in my heart, I had hoped that Yoshitsune-sama would resist his imminent death.

However, the moment I read that poem so undefiled and beautiful, I came to accept it. 

The sunlight streaming into the room grew darker, the sunset drawing near cast a shadow over my heart.

Yoichi: Ever since that time, time has stopped for us.

Yoichi: No matter how many soldiers we gather, the fact that the Shogunate is overwhelmingly more powerful remains unchanged.

Yoichi: Even with the power from Yoshitsune-sama’s supernatural abilities, they still have you as their trump card.

Yuno: I… I… 

Yoichi-san smiled wryly at me as I choked on my words. 

Yoichi: Ah, I’m not blaming you. I’m only stating the facts.

Yoichi: The feelings expressed in these death poems still live on till this day. 

Yoichi: Yoshitsune-sama intends to die in this battle.

Yuno: What… 

A painful feeling weighed on my heart, but I suddenly recalled some of Yoshitsune-sama’s words.

= Flashback Start =

Yoshitsune: Once, in the face of Yoritomo-kou’s forces, I failed to protect what was important.

Yoshitsune: However, my vassals and the people of Hiraizumi still chose to believe in me and follow me.

Yoshitsune: It’s my mission to provide them a country where they can live peacefully under the threat of no one.

Yoshitsune: — Even if I won’t be able to see it with my own eyes.

= Flashback End =

(Perhaps deep down, I already know…)

(... That Yoshitsune-sama is running towards his death.)

The indistinct feelings of anxiety I had been carrying took form. 

Yuno: … Even though I know that Yoshitsune-sama’s answer is unshakable, I don't want to accept it.

(Even if I’m an enemy of Yoshitsune-sama.) 

(These contradicting thoughts are all I have right now.) 

Yoichi: Yuno… 

Yoichi: It seems that you’re a much stronger woman than I thought you were. 

Yoichi-san looked down at the two death poems in my hands. 

Yoichi: In the first place, he’s not the kind of person who can still smile without a care after killing his older brother whom he respects. 

Yoichi: Even if he were to survive this battle, I don't think he’ll ever smile again.

Yuno: … 

Yoichi-san was someone who had been fighting by Yoshitsune-sama’s side all this time, that's what made his words so heart wrenching.

Yoichi: Ever since the day he decided to take revenge against Yoritomo-kou, Yoshitsune-sama has been willingly heading towards his own destruction. 

Yoichi: With firm resolve, one step at a time. 

(Benkei-san is determined to follow Yoshitsune-sama till the very end, and then…)

Yuno: Do you share the same belief with Benkei-san too, Yoichi-san? 

Yoichi: …

Yoichi: Benkei and I are both worried about Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoichi: But neither of us have the option to stop fighting.

Yoichi: The only way this war will end is if either Yoritomo-kou or Yoshitsune-sama is defeated. 

(... What Yoichi-san is saying sounds reasonable.) 

Yoichi: However. 

(Eh?) 

Yoichi-san’s eyes contained a faint glimmer of light.

Yoichi: Benkei decided on staying by Yoshitsune-sama’s side till the end. 

Yoichi: But I’ll keep searching for a way to save Yoshitsune-sama and the others. 

Yuno: Is that possible…?

Yoichi: Yeah. If I said with confidence that I’ll make it happen no matter what it takes… I’d look cool, wouldn't I?

Yoichi: But reality isn’t that sweet. 

(... That’s true.)

Yoichi: At the end, I’ll fight alongside him and increase the chances of him surviving.

Yoichi: Unless Yoshitsune-sama finds something that makes him feel from the bottom of his heart that he wants to live.

Yuno: Something that makes him genuinely want to live…?

Yoichi: Yeah. 

His hazel coloured eyes fixed onto me.

Yoichi: You asked why I suggested you as a hostage, didn't you?

Yuno: Yes…

Yoichi: That person seems to be unusually emotional whenever he’s around you.

Yoichi: I just thought this arrangement would spark something in him. 

Yuno: … Is that so? 

(When I first heard about being taken as a hostage, I thought it was because of my pact with Tamamo.) 

(But it turns out, that wasn't the case.)

I gently traced Yoshitsune-sama’s death poem with my fingertips.

The words sank into my heart, coiling tightly around it.

Yuno: I don’t think I’m capable of something as big as changing Yoshitsune-sama’s resolution, but…

(... I want to do something for Yoshitsune-sama.) 

(Still, even talking to Yoritomo-sama won’t stop the war.) 

(... What if I don’t participate in the war at all instead?) 

If I didn't use my fox powers, would Yoshitsune-sama not have to fight to his death?

I quickly dismissed the thoughts that surfaced in my mind. 

(I can’t so easily break the promise I made with everyone at the Shogunate.) 

Even if I were to be absent from the battlefield, Yoshitsune-sama would definitely still throw his life away and go all in. 

Yoichi: Sorry, I ended up saying things that make you worry.

Yuno: No. I prefer this over not knowing anything at all. 

Yuno: Thank you for talking to me.

Yoichi: … Yeah. 

After excusing myself, I left the room.

…

A few days later—... 

I visited Yoshitsune-sama’s room as usual to check on his wound. 

Yoshitsune: How does it look? 

The wound that was once a deep gash had completely healed.

Yuno: … It’s alright now. There shouldn't be any problems with resuming your usual training.

Yoshitsune: I see.

Yoshitsune-sama looked relieved as he adjusted his kimono.

(Even though it’s a good thing his wound has healed…) 

Once this treatment session ends, we won’t have any more opportunities to chat like this. 

A wave of sadness washed over me and I spoke up before I knew it.

Yuno: While I did say that it's alright to train, please don’t overdo it as you’ve only just recovered. 

Yoshitsune: Don’t overdo it…

Yoshitsune: Understood. 

Yuno: Recently, something feels rather off…

Yoshitsune: It’s just your imagination. 

Yoshitsune-sama unnaturally averted his gaze. 

(It most certainly isn’t!)

Yuno: Kurama… probably won’t listen, so I’ll ask Yoichi-san for this favor instead.

Yuno: If Yoshitsune-sama does anything reckless, he’ll tell Benkei-san. 

Yoshitsune: … That’d be a problem.

(As expected, Benkei-san’s scolding is Yoshitsune-sama’s weakness.) 

While Yoshitsune-sama frowned at the idea, I recalled Yoichi-san’s words.

= Flashback Start =

Yoichi: Ever since the day he decided to take revenge against Yoritomo-kou, Yoshitsune-sama has been willingly heading towards his own destruction. 

Yoichi: With firm resolve, one step at a time. 

= Flashback End = 

(Yoshitsune-sama is walking on the path of destruction with Benkei-san by his side.)

The weight of that pain felt like it was about to crush me.

Yoshitsune: Yuno. 

[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 →

[ga-yuu]

Yoritomo & Yoshitsune - Yoshitsune Story

That night when Yoshitsune-sama went to prison...

(Is Yoshitsune-sama okay...? What is he thinking right now?)

I was walking down the hallway while thinking this when...

Sueharu: "Hellooo~ What's wrong, Yoshino? Why that gloomy face?"

Yoshino: "Sueharu-san!"

When he called me in a light tone, I instantly stopped.

Sueharu: "Your lovely face is ruined. Come on now, smile for me."

Yoshino: "P-Please don't tease me."

Sueharu-san, a black merchant, wholesales weapons and men to the rebels in the last war, but...

Then as of now, he has never changed the way he plays with people using sweet pickup lines every time I see him.

Sueharu: "Ahh. Is this...perhaps for Yoshitsune-sama?'"

Looking at the tray in my hands, Sueharu-san took a guess.

Yoshino: "Yes. How can you tell?"

Sueharu: "I can predict that you would care for Yoshitsune-sama, because you're so kind."

Sueharu: "Not only you, even Yoichi is angry."

Sueharu: "We didn't inform Benkei and Kurama, because if they were here, I'm sure they'd kill every single human being here."

Yoshino: "I know..."

If Kurama and Benkei were here, they won't remain silent.

Sueharu: "Well I guess...Yoshitsune-sama went into prison himself to protect his own vassals."

Yoshino: "Eh?"

Sueharu: "Normally, the whole of Yoshitsune-sama's army would have been detained."

Sueharu: "But Yoshitsune-sama prevented that by giving himself up ahead of time."

(I see. Even at a times like that, Yoshitsune-sama was thinking of his people)

My heart ached and I wanted to see Yoshitsune-sama's face.

Sueharu: "....He's an idiot. Always keeps sacrificing himself."

(....Sueharu-san has been talking in a casual manner for a long time, but in fact, he is deeply concerned about Yoshitsune-sama)

Yoshino: "I wonder what will happen in the future...."

Sueharu: "Right now, though, Yoichi has managed to calm the vassals."

Sueharu: "It's only a matter of time before frustration sets in..."

(The alliance between the Shogunate and The Rebels would mess up, and....)

(It would be hard to overcome the trials of the Underworld)

Yoshino: "If only we could somehow exonerate Yoshitsune-sama..."

Sueharu: "...."

Sueharu: "You do believe in Yoshitsune-sama. huh?"

Yoshino: "Yes. Because I think that Yoshitsune-sama is straightforward, and he is purer than anyone else."

Sueharu: "....Straightforward and pure. What an odd thing to say."

A shadow crosses Sueharu-san's eyes.

Sueharu: "If Yoritomo-sama betrays Yoshitsune-sama once again, I don't think Yoshitsune-sama will ever recover from that again."

(Ah....)

That reminds me of the conversation I had with Yoshitsune-sama.

(After the first trial, I talked to Yoshitsune-sama, about Yoritomo-sama)

----FLASHBACK----

Yoshino: "I know....it's a selfish wish, but I want you both to feel as comfortable as possible. That's what I think."

Yoshino: "If only reconciliation would make that happen, then..."

Yoshitsune: "Isn't that a temporary relief?"

Yoshino: "Eh..."

Yoshitsune: "Fairness contradicts mercy."

Yoshitsune: "As long as we can't change the way we each live...."

Yoshitsune: "And if I stay close to Yoritomo, I might be killed again."

Yoshitsune: "When I think about that again, I...."

----FLASHBACK ENDS----

(And I forced...both of them to come closer)

(If that is what caused Yoshitsune-sama to be deeply hurt...)

Sueharu-san gently puts his hand on my shoulder as a way to cheer me up.

Sueharu: "I think he needs support right now."

Sueharu: "Maybe an attractive, smart pharmacist girl is what he needs."

Yoshino: "....Sueharu-san."

Sueharu: "---Take care of Yoshitsune-sama. We're forbidden to visit him."

Yoshino: "....Yes."

(But what can I do?)

After parting ways with Sueharu-san and I started walking towards where Yoshitsune-sama was.

...........

When I reached the prison...

Before I could call him, Yoshitsune-sama looks out, like a beast sensitive to the presence.

Yoshitsune: "Yoshino."

Yoshino: "Good evening, Yoshitsune"

Yoshino: "I brought you something. Here."

I passed warm tea and sweets through the grate.

Yoshitsune: "Thank you."

I sit in front of the jail, relieved to see him smile faintly at me.

Yoshino: "I just met Sueharu-san on my way here."

Yoshino: "He said that your vassals are also worried about you."

Yoshitsune: "I have such warm companions."

Yoshino: "I'm sure it's because Yoshitsune-sama has devoted his heart and soul to the people around him."

Yoshitsune: ".....Really?"

Yoshitsune: "If so, I'm glad. Because it means my half-life had meaning."

(Many people love Yoshitsune-sama)

(But why do I get the feeling hat you don't give yourself much credit...?)

I wonder, but I am more concerned about one thing.

Yoshino: "....Yoshitsune-sama, are you okay?"

Yoshitsune: "What do you mean?"

Yoshino: "The fact that you were suspected of attempted poisoning."

Yoshino: "I don't think Yoritomo-sama doubts you."

Yoshitsune: "..........really."

(What a lonely smile)

Yoshitsune: "Normally he won't let anyone read his mind. You're the only one he opens up to."

Yoshino: "Yoritomo-sama certainly is a hard man to understand."

Yoritomo-sama is always relaxed and loves bullying people.

Yoshino: "...But in my eyes, Yoritomo-sama is different when he's around Yoshitsune-sama."

Yoshitsune: "...."

(Sometimes he gets angry or laughs his heart out...)

(Maybe that is the face of Yoritomo-sama as an older brother)

Yoshitsune: "I have always wished that it were so."

Yoshitsune: "Perhaps...even when I truly hate that man."

Yoshitsune-sama held his knees tightly in the prison cell.

Yoshino: "Yoshitsune-sama....."

Yoshitsune: "I've shown you so many pitiful things that it's a little late for that now."

Yoshitsune: "The fact that I could not forgive my brother to the extent that I did is a reflection of my deepest yearning."

Yoshino: "....I see."

(Previously, Yoshitsune-sama probably couldn't even bear to admit that)

Yoshitsune: "I had a lot of friends by my side, but the betrayals of my past will always haunt me."

Yoshitsune: "You don't have to stick with your brother just because you share the same blood."

Yoshitsune: "I've thought that a lot."

Yoshitsune-sama's voice sinks heavily.

Yoshitsune: "But when confronted....my eyes naturally gravitate toward my brother."

Yoshitsune: "Whenever and however it may be, even in the midst of battle..."

(I can only imagine...)

(I know that Yoshitsune-sama was fighting with a broken heart)

Yoshino: "....It must be hard to have both hate and love."

Yoshitsune: "My mind is full of contradictions."

Yoshitsune: "Even now, my brother's trust and doubt overflow into my heart."

I stand up, approach the prison bars, and gently reach through the gap.

Yoshino: "Yoshitsune-sama...will you let me touch you?"

Yoshitsune: "Yoshino."

(I want to share my warmth with this man)

Such passion rises from within my body.

Yoshitsune-sama slowly approached and took my offered hand.

Yoshitsune: "---They're so beautiful."

Yoshino: "....Yoshitsune-sama's hands are more beautiful."

His long thin fingers intercept mine.

Yoshitsune: "No."

Yoshitsune: "You save many people with these hands, and now you're also healing my heart."

Yoshino: "....Yoshitsune-sama's words are always straightforward."

(That's why I feel like I'm drowning if I'm given an endless supply)

I clenched my fingertips making up my mind.

And Yoshitsune-sama exhaled.

Yoshitsune: ".....It was only when you touched me I realized."

Yoshitsune: "I feel lonely."

Yoshino: "Yoshitsune-sama...."

Yoshitsune: "If I could live more dexterously, would I ever lose this warmth?"

Yoshitsune: "....But I also find Yoshitsune-sama's clumsiness attractive."

This time, I looked back at Yoshitsune-sama without looking away.

Yoshino: "Please believe in what Yoshitsune-sama believes in."

Yoshino: "Because you are as strong as anyone."

Yoshitsune: "....Thank you."

When I was rewarded with a beautiful smile, I felt a rush of sadness.

Yoshitsune: "I'm glad you came to see me, Yoshino."

Yoshitsune: "Even if your warmth leaves my body, it will never leave my heart."

(I hope a days comes when this man is not lonely and unhappy)

[firefighting-idiot]

Anyways, I can't stop thinking about how Soga Goro gave Usumidori back to the Genji

[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!

[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.

[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.

[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! :)

[archiveikemen]

“That Facial Expression Of Yours” Card Story

Minamoto no Yoshitsune — 4★

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.

Warnings & FAQ

— One night, Yoshitsune-sama and I talked till late into the night.

Yoshitsune-sama was kind enough to escort me back to my room, and so we were walking down the corridor together.

Yoshitsune: I’d like to continue today’s conversation with you tomorrow. What do you think?

Yuno: Yes, certainly! I look forward to it.

Yoshitsune: … Thanks. I’m looking forward to it too.

(Ah… I love when he makes that face.)

Yoshitsune: …? What’s wrong?

Yuno: Yoshitsune-sama… your facial expression has become much softer recently.

Yoshitsune: … I-Is that so?

Yoshitsune: If I've been smiling more often recently… it must be because of you.

Yoshitsune: Whenever I see your smile, I feel the muscles in my face relaxing too.

Yuno: Eh…

(Does that mean… did my facial expression influence Yoshitsune-sama’s?)

My cheeks heated up at that unexpected reason for his smile.

Yoshitsune: Yuno? Why are you silent?

Yuno: Oh… it’s nothing! I was just looking at the moon for a bit.

Yoshitsune: Yeah… the moon is indeed beautiful. I was focused on only you while we were talking, so I didn’t notice it.

(He’s doing that again…)

I secretly wished that Yoshitsune-sama would continue looking at the moon, until my cheeks stopped burning.

[sulettaofficial]

This was a much needed end title card after today's episode (๑•﹏•)

Illustrated by Yoshitsune Izuna, for those of you without Google Translate Camera

[ga-yuu]

Ikemen Genjiden Sequel Masterlist

Common route: Chapter 1/Chapter 2/ Chapter 3 - Yoshitsune story and Yoritomo story/ Chapter 4/ Chapter 5/ Chapter 6/ Chapter 7 - Yoritomo story and Yoshitsune story/ Chapter 8

Yoshitsune route: Chapter 9/ Chapter 10/ Chapter 11/ Chapter 12/ Chapter 13/ Chapter 14/ Chapter 15/ Chapter 16/ Chapter 17/ Chapter 18/ Chapter 19

[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.