“You scared us. Do you know how worried we were? How worried I was? Why didn’t you write that you were in Kyoto, what have you been doing? How did you even get here and how…”
A stream of questions boulders over me like a waterfall as Hideyoshi grips my shoulders tightly, shaking me ever so slightly to make sure I haven’t fainted on the spot, or fallen asleep on him.
“You’re worsening it, Hideyoshi. What if her brain will go all mush because of your shaking?”
Omw the gangs alll there! hehehe i love yasu saltiness hehehehe awwwwww my heart! Imagine looking better after a kidnapping lololol i love how masas first instinct to weight-loss is MORE FOOD!❤️
I’m writing this just before I don my costume. I hope you like the mask I have chosen today.
I wonder if you will still love me, even if I turn into a beast. Will you still peel away on the layers of my heart and tug at me until I’m laid bare?
I wonder if I can somehow spare you from the hardships to come. I wish I could, I wish I was a tengu with real wings able to carry you off into the sky, away from this conflict and this plan thought up by my scheming master.
Enough dreaming away on hopes. I trust that you will stay safe. Not because lord Hideyoshi is protecting you, but because I trust you.
After everything is over, once we are back in Azuchi, I promise I will take you out on a proper date, like the ones you described to me. With a proper dinner and a proper confession.
OMW! //Hugs letter to chest! Gaaaaaah what a sweeetie❤️❤️❤️
Character: Kyubae the bae’st bae of all aka Kyubei
The key of chapter 11.1 was (Romantic/Dramatic):
+4/+2
+2/+4
+4/+4
Recap: Kyubei and I escaped Kichou and Motonari but we aren’t safe yet. Though our feelings are out in the open Kyubei still needs to hide as the forces are after him.
OMW AND THE SNEK APPEARS! also i freaken cant believe i missed this! EVEN SOFTER THAN THE LAST! gaaaaaaah my heart❤️❤️☺️☺️☺️ //melts ☺️☺️☺️☺️☺️ ohhh my i am a sucker for fluff and this lil piece is packed with the best!❤️❤️ blushing and swooning so early in the morning should be illegal
Prompt:Seeing how Kyubei is named after an alias that the real Mitsuhide Akechi used (Juubei) the chances of fans getting a Kyubei route from Cybird are slim. However, it is simply impossible not to fall for this man. He is too good. So here have my attempt at writing a route.
Status:Ongoing, weekly updates (ideally).
“This shadow’s only wish is your safety, my lady.”
Character: Kyubae the bae’st bae of all aka Kyubei
A/N: It is finally done! //flops To everyone who read this; thank you! To everyone who loved it: THANK YOU! To everyone who asked me where it is staying at: Here it is. At last. At last! I hope you have enjoyed this rollercoaster as much as I have enjoyed writing it, because wow. This was a project dear to my heart. Only the best for the Bae’st Bae!
Letter 12.1 | Avatar Challenge | Gacha POV | Romantic Epilogue
Though Kyubei the teacher is great, Kyubei is awful as a student.
“Kyu– Dearest.”
I plaster a smile on my face as I stand in front of the last man that should be exerting himself beyond our travels today.
(Meet Kyubei, loyal vassal of Mitsuhide and the very definition of a work-a-holic.)
There he stood, boxes loaded onto his arms that all represented the gratitude of the people he had helped today.
(This must be a new record!)
I marvel for a moment before I snap myself out of it, my head shaking disapprovingly as I march over to him.
“Do you understand what rest is?”
Kyubei gives me a sheepish look, aware of his guilt as I unhand some of the boxes in his arms, forcing them onto the vassals that happen to be witness of the sight as I load them up.
“Ieyasu said at least one week of rest, not mere hours!”
(Okay, so the story in full is that Kyubei has hurt his shoulder. How? Well, it is rather embarrassing, so I won’t go into detail on that, but let’s say that we had too much fun alright? Not that Ieyasu had to know of it, though by the sour look on his face he could tell.)
“But the boxes aren’t heavy.”
Kyubei tries to protest as I glower him down, his arms now empty of any boxes and packages that he has received so far while I motion for the vassals to bring them over to our room.
(Yes, our room! Mitsuhide has allowed me to move into the Akechi manor, where Kyubei holds his own room. I suppose he can’t miss his loyal vassal yet, just as I can’t miss Kyubei. Heh.)
“And what did I say about multiplication, again? Load upon load, it will become heavy eventually!”
Kyubei chuckles at my remark, shaking his head at my overindulging manner of worrying over him.
(Can you blame me though? This man is too good. Well, to everyone but himself.)
“Alright, alright. Will you roll my shoulder for me?”
Finally conceding Kyubei sits himself down on the engawa, his shoulder the perfect height for me to reach over to it without having to bend too much forward as eager fingers start to roll out the muscles there.
“You are a stubborn man.”
I tell him as if meaning to blame him, or seek fault with him. It earns yet another laugh from Kyubei as he grabs my hand over his shoulder, pinching it gently before pressing a kiss against the palm of my hand.
“You said you liked me, faults and all.”
The familiar words thrown back at me melts my heart instantly, my frown fading away like snow in front of the sun as I have to hold back the urge to throw myself into a hug with him.
(I really can’t stay mad at him, and he knows it! This terrible, terrible tease!)
But it is true, I love him for all his faults, but I won’t tell him! Take that, I won’t tell you, even if you already know, even if you are trying to tease it out of me.
“You owe me another date for that.”
I exclaim instead, a triumphant smile on my face as Kyubei turns around, blinking owlishly before it is his turn to frown.
“I don’t want to owe dates.”
The tone in which he says this strikes me, almost poutingly, and when I look carefully I swear I can see something of a pout on his lips as well, delighting me even more as I wonder what lucky stars have fallen for me to be able to witness this.
“Are you pouting?”
Kyubei turns around to hide his face from me, but it is too late already, I have seen it and I will not let it go, determinedly!
That is…
“Ah, love birds. How lovely.”
The sharp reminder that we are in the Akechi manor, where Mitsuhide can call upon Kyubei whenever he pleases, which he has been doing less so, instead walking in on the most inopportune moments, the master of the manor, the lord of my beloved, indeed comes walking in.
“I fear my eyeballs will melt at how sweet this scene is. I’m terribly sorry for breaking your bubble, but I need to borrow my vassal.”
(Knowing that he isn’t sorry at all makes it so much worse, grrrr…)
But today I have an upperhand, remembering the words of a certain medical expert in the Oda force.
“Kyubei sprained his shoulder! He can’t!”
The smirk on Mitsuhide’s face widens as Kyubei already has risen up from his spot, ready to take the order of his lord, earning a look of triumph from Mitsuhide as he eyes me.
“Too bad I don’t need him for his capable shoulders, though they do seem sturdy.”
With that chuckle I’m once more left at the mercy of both the lord and my loyal, loyal beau, who can’t help but throw himself into work when he is supposed to rest.
“Nobunaga has approved of your request. I have already chosen a plot of ground where you can set up your manor.”
The news, entirely new to me, takes a moment to land as I eye between Mitsuhide and Kyubei, both lord and vassal smiling contently as they keep quiet.
(Does that mean?)
As the meaning of Mitsuhide’s words dawned on me I turned my eyes on Kyubei, who grimaced shyly at me with a nod.
“If you don’t mind?”
He says, questioning it as if it was ever a question as I forget Ieyasu’s orders and my own carefulness, throwing myself into Kyubei’s arms.
“Just be you, Kyubei. I want to know the true Kyubei, the clumsy one.”
(Now, I have no idea what or who informed you of my clumsy days, but they have long been over and I would rather not be reminded of them.)
Her sweet words tickle my ears, her warmth coaxing my half-asleep brain awake as I wonder what has ever given her the impression that I could have been clumsy.
(Can only be lord Mitsuhide, whom I have been careful to not leave her alone with.)
A chuckle escapes me, disbelief setting within me at this side of me that is so hard trying to be good and perfect for her, when all she wants is me. Just me.
“Clumsy? Me?”
The delightful little gasp that escapes her upon realising that I have heard her all this while do not help in the attempt of summoning some guilt for deceiving her so.
(I fear that my lord has rubbed off on me. I cannot stop teasing you.)
I laugh again as she hits me on the shoulder, my arms snaking around her waist as I pull her closer, wanting her as close to me as I can while giving her another kiss.
(I will miss this part of the day, the dearest of them all.)
The thought of returning to my duties so soon as tomorrow makes the whole half a month I have been under punishment seem almost surreal, but I know it is the truth, that she isn’t a dream, that she is real, in my arms, loving me wholly, even the parts I don’t know myself.
“There are plenty more, but I like you just the way you are, faults and all!”
The sweet promise she gives me, pointing out my flaws, seeing through my attempts of seeming the best choice for her. How can I win against her when I’m so utterly lost in her love?
(Ah, let this bliss forever stay. May she never tire of the me who is not without flaws. The me who doesn’t deserve her love.)
Half a month flies past in a blink of an eye. The seamstress workshop is busy, and I’m even busier next to being the chatelaine and trying to catch up on the work I have missed in the time I was gone. But with Kyubei at my side I feel I can stand everything, no matter the amount of work I have to face.
(But tomorrow his punishment is over and he is free to return to his duties again.)
I think this regretfully when I open my notebook, marking down another day in which I kept track of Kyubei’s punishment.
(Maybe there won’t be any work to do with Mitsuhide punished?)
The thought is wistful as I know this not to be true. Someone like Kyubei was invaluable wherever he went. I knew that much.
(But it would be so nice to have him in my bed for longer!)
I feel that I have grown clingy over this lovely vassal who is still vast asleep beside me, the early morning light not bothering him as I shield him from the rays of sun.
[“I promise to try to be the best I can be for you. To give you all you deserve.”]
His promise half a month ago, next to the lake, still lingers on in my mind as I smile to myself, feeling giddy and silly at the thought of a man so devoted to me.
(But I know that it isn’t what I truly want. Which I haven’t said to him yet.)
Watching him sleep so peacefully I can’t help but trace the line of his nose, disturbing his even breaths before he returns to sleep with a mumble, earning another giggle from me as I lean over him.
“Just be you, Kyubei. I want to know the true Kyubei, the clumsy one.”
(Expressing my feelings as such while he is still asleep and unable to respond feels a little deceitful, but I can’t help myself there. These thoughts are too hard to pronounce when he is awake.)
The arm that wraps itself around my waist catches my breath, my heart surging up into my throat as I realise that I have been heard, as a tug causes me to fall over Kyubei’s chest as fair lips kiss the curve of my neck.
“Clumsy? Me?”
The exclamation is amused as if to say that he never could be, but I know that his love is clumsy, and so is his confidence.
(But I will keep my thoughts to myself, I know you have your pride.)
“Were you pretending to be asleep?”
I hit him on the shoulder, remembering a similar scene from what seemed ages ago.
(How much has happened since then.)
“You, sir, have a bad habit!”
“No eavesdropping!”
“Stop pretending to be asleep!”
Kyubei laughs at this exclamation, his hold on me tighter as he nuzzles into the nape of my neck, a deep and satisfied breath escaping him before allowing me to pull away again.
“If that is the only fault you can find in me I can fix it.”
He promises and I roll my eyes at that, poking into the firm muscles of his arms.
“There are plenty more, but I like you just the way you are, faults and all!”
(This time I’m exclaiming my feelings clearly, please receive them.)
Kyubei’s eyes widen at my statement, his lips parted in a dumbfounded way and for once I think he looks silly, as if he were a young boy caught doing something naughty, before his lips bloom into a beautiful smile, his fingers treading through my hair as he pulls me closer.
“You are too good to be true, truly.”
His firm belief in my goodness, and his determination to be as good. I will leave it to be for now. For I love the man and hope that one day he will learn to love himself as well like I do, through my love.
“Ready for the day?”
Kyubei asks me when he finishes brushing my hair, peeking over my shoulder into the mirror in which both our faces are reflected. I smile with a nod, my hand lifted halfway in the air only to be caught by his, a habit we have formed, as I draw myself up to him for a kiss.
“Ready for your last day off!”
I try not to be too sulky over it, but I can’t help but feel a lingering regret for being so busy despite his own free time.
(Darn being capable and popular actually brings a lot of trouble!)
But despite my thoughts I don’t mind it one bit as I look up into the face of the most capable of them all. The one and only shadow who was no longer going to be a shadow.
By the time we finally walk out of the council room the sun is already setting, but this time my hand is firmly wrapped into Kyubei’s hand as he leads the way out of the castle, into the castle town.
“Work can wait until tomorrow, tonight I want to fulfil my promise.”
Feeling the smile stretching so impossibly wide on my face I nod firmly, excited for the date that was to come ahead as I allow myself to be pulled along.
“First some tea, because I owe you tea and a snack.”
Kyubei sits me down at the tea house in which he had left me behind the last time, this time taking a spot himself as he points at the market, a wistful look in his eyes.
“I still remember you admonishing the ranked lord. I had never seen such an admirable sight.”
(I remember your laugh, so clear and open for all to hear.)
I smile at the memory, nodding along vaguely as Kyubei places his order, taking my hand into his again.
“I think I had already fallen for you then.”
Kyubei confesses as he enjoys the crowd thinning out around us, taking us to the next spot where he treats me to dinner.
“It will be a while before I can cook you dinner again.”
Kyubei sounds regretful as he picks out the dishes according to my palette, his eyes never leaving mine as he observes me from all angles.
(The dishes you made in our little cottage were nice, but I wouldn’t trade anything for seeing you so at peace.)
He doesn’t know my thoughts, I know, but there will be plenty of times to express them. After Kyubei has expressed his feelings, I will.
When the moon is standing high we walk across the lake near Azuchi, my hand still enveloped in his as he leads me under a tree, full and green, signalling the summer season as a sweet breeze cools our cheeks, his fingers warming them right up again as he touches them.
“You are a dream I never dared to have. Didn’t dare to long for.”
His voice sounds like a sweet promise to me as he slowly recites his promise to me, to which I can only hope to equal in kind.
“The most important part is that Kennyo no longer works with Motonari and Kichou.”
The summary of the events of these past nights were summarised as soon as we returned to Azuchi.
“The intruders we caught were mercenaries employed and abandoned by Motonari and Kichou.”
The news spells unrest within the group of great lords, their faces pensive as everyone wonders what this will mean for the future. Motonari and Kichou were a powerful duo, it has been proven so far.
“For now, Mitsuhide!”
Hideyoshi, unable to sit still for any longer, marches on for Mitsuhide, his hand balled into a fist as he swings it at the man.
“Hideyoshi.”
The sharp voice of Nobunaga has him retreat however, the realisation of where he was settling in as I release a sigh, glancing over to the corner where Kyubei is seated, calm and serene as ever.
(As if it couldn’t bother him. Which it shouldn’t.)
I know it is savage to think so, but Mitsuhide has been hogging Kyubei all for himself ever since we have returned to Azuchi, not allowing him an ounce of rest.
(And now a week later…)
I try not to show my dejection too much, knowing that it can’t be helped after the mess we just got out of. There was a lot of work to catch up on, and more work to come after.
Just as I was about to set my heart on maybe another month without Kyubei I hear Nobunaga chuckle, his smile directed at me before he rest his hands on his knees, an impish glint in his eyes as he gave Mitsuhide a look.
“I should punish you, but not with a punch.”
Nobunaga’s smile fades away as he puts up a serious face, a façade, I have learnt, too often having to look at Kyubei’s masks before our eyes meet again.
“House arrest, for a month.”
The punishment meted lingers on in the air, and I can almost hear the grumble on Mitsuhide’s expression as I whip my head around to Kyubei, before realising that I shouldn’t be so excited about punishments.
“Are you sure this is punishment? Look at the lass glowering.”
Masamune can’t help but observe, pointing out the obvious excitement that I failed to contain as I try to bite for an answer, knowing that I have no retort to make.
“Not really, because we all know that Kyubei does the actual legwork.”
The sharp observation from Ieyasu brings my excitement to a chill as I feel my heart drop into my stomach, wondering if this means I was going to see even less of Kyubei now.
(And he doesn’t even seem upset by it!)
Kyubei is still in his corner, no reaction gleaming off him whatsoever or even a glance into my direction.
“Mitsuhide, I suggest you punish your vassal as well for his absence. And for taking my lucky charm with him.”
Nobunaga’s voice sounds through the hall again, sparking a hope within me as I throw my eyes up at Mitsuhide, hoping to see what he is going to do now that his boss has ‘suggested’ something to him, the Sengoku equivalent of an order in polite terms.
(Oh no, I know that look!)
With a sly smile Mitsuhide bows to Nobunaga, before locking eyes with me, an inaudible snicker escaping him as he shrugs.
“I suppose I shall confine him with me, for half a month. On the account that he brought the princess back safely, and in satisfaction.”
The last tag added onto the exclamation sends a heat to my cheeks, my eyes widening as the lords in the room are unable to hide the smile under their breaths anymore, watching me squirm under their teases.
(But half a month! Half a month!)
The thought excites me as I can’t wait for the council to be concluded, nearly tripping over myself as I rush my way out of the room.
“[Name].”
Nobunaga calls for me, his eyes stern once more while I freeze at the door opening, wondering what was forgotten.
“The maids have been asking for you. You have orders.”
I groan at the memory of my second job next to being a chatelaine, remembering how I had volunteered myself for more work in pursuit of my dream, and how much work must have piled up in my absence.
(I forgot that I need to be free as well!)
The guffaw that escapes Keiji in a muffle tells me that the rest of the lords had already foreseen this, enjoying my misery as I lean my head against the doorframe, wondering where I was supposed to get the time from now.
“I can help?”
The deep familiar voice of Kyubei sounds near me, and as I lift my eyes up I see him leaning over me, a smile set in place before he gently leads me out of the door to allow the rest to pass.
“I have a month off with little to do, after all.”
“Stop teasing me already!”
“Work dates?”
“I will do my best!”
For this once I don’t mind the rest of the warlords laughing at me so.
Character: Kyubae the bae’st bae of all aka Kyubei
The key of chapter 12.1 was (Romantic/Dramatic):
+4/+4
+2/+4
+4/+2
Recap: Kyubei and I escaped Kichou and Motonari but we aren’t safe yet. Though our feelings are out in the open Kyubei still needs to hide as the forces are after him.
The crowd seems to gasp at the exclamation, a panic settling over the group as the fireworks follow each other faster and faster, the colours lighting up the dark sky but never rivalling the brightness of the temple itself.
“Everyone, get away from the temple!”
Hideyoshi is quick to march into the crowd, signalling for the crowd to calm down as he directs them into the direction of the city, his vassals following after.
“This way please.”
Mitsunari instructs somewhere else in the crowd as I feel myself swept up in the crowd, quick to snap out of my reverie, quickly taking a lost child by the hand as I lead them away into safety.
Meanwhile, in the temple of Honno-ji a a group of intruders dressed in costume find themselves surrounded in the tenshu, where they find a large fiery pot being stirred by a Masamune.
“Seems like you guys didn’t get the memo.”
The prowling smile of the one-eyed dragon forces the intruders to a halt, confusion hidden by their masks as they try to back out of the room, realising that they’ve been had.
“Abandoned, that’s what you dimwits are.”
Ieyasu steps out from behind the screen, blocking their only escape route as Nobunaga sits at the head of the room proudly, his arms crossed just like his legs, as if he has no intention to fight them.
“Which means that they’re all useless to me now.”
The cold promise sends shudders down the backs of the intruders, realising that they have indeed been betrayed.
Outside of the temple Mitsuhide has already rounded up the rest of the troupe, a sly smile on his lips as the tengu gets up, kneeling in front of the silvery man that could have joined the troupe as a kitsune, had he wanted.
“I assume these have merely been blackmailed to take in the intruders?”
Mitsuhide’s smile widens as he stares the entertainers down, some quivering whilst others glare. The tengu remains quiet, however, instead turning around slowly to the remaining crowd as he pulls off the mask, revealing the face of a man used to hiding in the shadows.
“Good job, Kyubei, I will allow you to do as you please, if you weren’t so tender-hearted since your little break.”
Kyubei didn’t seem to heed the criticism coming from his lord, used as he was to the whims of Mitsuhide. Instead the man produces a note from his sleeves, handing it over to Mitsuhide with a solemn smile.
“The streets are empty and everything is under control.”
Mitsunari reports to Hideyoshi hours before dawn is to break. The vassals are exhausted, just like I’m, but we are all glad to know that everyone is safe home now.
(Now, just to get news from Honno-ji.)
Hideyoshi’s face looks like a storm as he receives the update from Mitsunari, drawing a breath of relief before he signals for his men to follow, determined to immediately move on.
“Mitsunari, join Masamune’s troops surrounding the city, I will go see lord Nobunaga.”
The worry is clear in his voice, his entire focus now shifting towards his lord, but not before he gently pushes against my shoulder, nudging me back to the inn in which we were meeting.
“You should get some sleep, instead.”
The well meaning words of Hideyoshi bring me nothing but frustration as I stubbornly shake my head.
“No!”
“Sleep is for the weak!”
“I’m not tired.”
Hideyoshi frowns at my exclamation, his brow furrowing deep as he disapproves of my attitude, but there is some understanding as well before he releases a sigh.
“I wish I could give you to someone of equal status, but if this is the man you have chosen.”
The words sound resigned as we make our way to the temple, my heart filled with anxiety at the sight we were about to see.
(Though, this wasn’t what I was expecting.) The drums are beating still as we arrive at the temple, the sound of laughter mingling in as a flashy man is beating down the drums while reciting a cheerful poem to a crowd.
“Just in time!”
Keiji flashes us a beaming smile, as if last night’s happenings had been part of the festival, while he continues to hit the drum in hands, announcing the next beat and folk song he was about to sing.
“This crowd can use a little cheer, doesn’t it?”
From beyond his broad figure I can see the troupe of yesterday, still in their costumes of last night, though by far not all of them.
(The lion is missing. And so is…)
“Missing me?”
A voice next to my ear whispers, and I whirl around in a startle to meet ocean blue eyes, instantly out of breath at the nearness of his person to me, and how I have missed him in body and soul.
(What an embarrassing reaction.)
Kyubei smiles instead, the circles under his eyes dark and his costume a little dirtied, but in overall seemingly in good shape.
“We did it. Though, it seems that the true instigators have managed to escape, still.”
Dutiful as ever Kyubei fills me in, like a vassal reporting to his lord, but I don’t mind any of it, relief too great to know that Kyubei fell to no harm as I jump into his arms, a mangled and strangled cry falling from my lips, glad to know that we can finally head home. Together.
“There, there. Didn’t you receive my letter?”
He says as if meaning to reassure me, but I know that he is relieved as well.
I’m writing this just before I don my costume. I hope you like the mask I have chosen today.
I wonder if you will still love me, even if I turn into a beast. Will you still peel away on the layers of my heart and tug at me until I’m laid bare?
I wonder if I can somehow spare you from the hardships to come. I wish I could, I wish I was a tengu with real wings able to carry you off into the sky, away from this conflict and this plan thought up by my scheming master.
Enough dreaming away on hopes. I trust that you will stay safe. Not because lord Hideyoshi is protecting you, but because I trust you.
After everything is over, once we are back in Azuchi, I promise I will take you out on a proper date, like the ones you described to me. With a proper dinner and a proper confession.
“You scared us. Do you know how worried we were? How worried I was? Why didn’t you write that you were in Kyoto, what have you been doing? How did you even get here and how…”
A stream of questions boulders over me like a waterfall as Hideyoshi grips my shoulders tightly, shaking me ever so slightly to make sure I haven’t fainted on the spot, or fallen asleep on him.
“You’re worsening it, Hideyoshi. What if her brain will go all mush because of your shaking?”
Though Ieyasu’s attitude is frosty as ever I can tell that he is back, accompanied with the delighted smiles of the rest who have come to see you as soon as they heard of your return.
“You sure do know how to cause a scene, lass.”
Masamune sounds impressed as he looks me up and down, scanning me for any injuries.
“You just lost some weight, but nothing that some food can’t fix.”
It is a promise that I can’t help but feel excited about, a smile beaming into Masamune’s direction before I’m cut off by another booming voice.
“For some reason you look better than before your kidnapping.”
Making way for Nobunaga I stiffen up under his scrutinising gaze when he approaches me, relaxing once more as he fondly pats my head.
“Good to have you back. You scared Hideyoshi out of his wits.”
“If he had any to begin with.”
Ieyasu cuts in after Nobunaga with a huff before he turns towards you, his expression back into business once more.
“Mitsuhide cleared his name. We’re here to catch the rest of the plan.”
It is all he tells me, but it gives me the greatest relief to know that Mitsuhide and Kyubei are in the clear now.
“So, tonight, right?”
I question and Nobunaga gives me a nod, a sideway smile cast at me as he confirms my suspicion, repeating;
“Tonight.”
The streets of Kyoto are brightly decorated, with stands all around us trying to sell their snacks and games. It almost reminds me of the festivals of the modern days, just that the lanterns surrounding us are actually lit with fire and not with lightbulbs instead, giving a flickering afterglow to the streets as drums sound.
(Nobunaga should now be in Honno-ji, right? They did say that the drums wouldn’t start sounding until the lords had gathered themselves.)
“Look, there comes the fanfare.”
Hideyoshi pointed out from behind me, an encouraging smile flashed into my direction as I turned my gaze over to the spot he had pointed out for me, eager to witness the festivities.
The crowd of people disperse to the side, in awe at the big drums that sound as brightly coloured lion leads the proceedings, its large head and eyes shaking and fluttering while the men underneath the costume jump around and onto each other to perform the greatest tricks.
“How cute!”
A little girl near me squeals when the lion comes closer, its head shaking as if curious and nuzzling the girl, delighting her further, before rising up to face me, the eyes cutely blinking at me before nudging open its mouth, asking for a donation.
“Alright, alright.”
Hideyoshi is quick to push some money down the opening, a hand protectively folding over my shoulder as he pulls me back. Another actor of the crowd comes forth into our direction, this time dressed like a tengu, dark and masked and tall, so tall, holding a spear in hands as the tengu swats lightly on the hind of the lion.
(It’s you, isn’t it?)
That familiar shade of dark hair and twinkling dark blue eyes beneath the mask are instantly recognised by me as I watch the lips of the tengu curl up in familiarity, a finger rising up and pressing against his lips before bowing silently before jumping off back into the performance.
(I see you, handsome!)
(My dark prince!)
(Fly away with me!)
Other performers, dressed like mythical figures, join in on the performance, their dance becoming fiercer as the drum turns louder, and I’m not sure if it are the drums that make me tremble, or if it is my heart that is beating so loudly, anxious for what is to come as the troupe slowly dance their way towards the temple.
(I hope all will be alright despite the crowd!)
Shooting a silent prayer up in the air I watch the troupe come closer to the grand stairs of Honno-ji, every beat of the drum signalling the plan that is about to start as I don’t dare to close my eyes.
The drums died out and the silence that follows after, heavy and solemn, seems to be screaming as the whistle of fireworks signals the next phase while the crowd breaks out in a cheer, jubilating the crowd of entertainers that charge up the stairs, storming towards the temple on top.
“Look, there is fire!”
The little girl from earlier points to the top of the stairs, where a flicker of light can be seen from the recently renovated temple, steadily growing larger as I hold my hands tightly to my heart.
Character: Kyubae the bae’st bae of all aka Kyubei
The key of chapter 11.1 was (Romantic/Dramatic):
+4/+2
+2/+4
+4/+4
Recap: Kyubei and I escaped Kichou and Motonari but we aren’t safe yet. Though our feelings are out in the open Kyubei still needs to hide as the forces are after him.
The cheers of the visiting villagers are a constant stream as one by one they hop by with presents.
(Little Weaver wasn’t joking when she said she would make the whole village hear.)
“The first for heaven and earth!”
Her voice rings clearly as she announces the start of the ceremony.
(“It is a tradition I took with me from my birthplace.” Grandmother had explained to us when she told us about the ceremony.)
(Something to declare the sacred bound to the past and the future. How fitting.)
Kyubei is right next to me as he takes my hand, helping me in the heavy robes as we make our bows, with Weaver calling out each one.
Neither Kyubei nor I have a living family member around. It is Weaver’s grandmother that stands as our witness, encouraging us in her soft manner as Weaver calls for the last vow.
“The newly weds bow to each other!”
The words ring in my ears for a long while as we finally close our door after a full day of blessings.
“It seems that our lie isn’t so much of a lie anymore.”
Kyubei expresses what I have been wondering as I face him.
(He looks so calm. So sure.)
As if reading my thoughts Kyubei reaches out for me, slowly sitting me down on the bed as his fingers trace over the decorations in my hair.
“I don’t mind making this our reality. I just wish I could give you something more proper.”
Though he looks calm there is uncertainty in his eyes. Anxious to know what my feelings are. Insecure in my satisfaction and his own lackings.
(Our reality is what we decide ourselves.)
(But I don’t see any lacking. Not in Kyubei.)
Tugging him down at the sleeve I coax him to sit with me, cheek snuggling into his hand as I quietly convey my happiness to him.
The domestic days of bliss we shared were soon to be over, however. While I prepared breakfast the sound of wings could be heard as a crow landed in the windowsill across.
Black wings and dark eyes. At its little feet I can see a note tied as I reach out for it, carefully unrolling it as I struggle to decipher the code vassal and lord share.
“Back to work it seems.”
Kyubei speaks those ominous words over my shoulder as he eyes the note. Noticing my hesitance Kyubei leans over as he presses his lips against my temple, a reassuring smile adorning his lips.
“Let’s go home.”
The implications of the promise within his words calms me down as I steel my resolve to face this together with the one I love.
(But first Honno-ji, where it all began and hopefully shall end.)
“I don’t think I will have another couple as handsome as you two move in soon.”
We are quick to pack as we return the robes to grandmother and Weaver.
“It is a shame to see you two leave so soon, but you can’t keep the young.”
Grandmother’s words hide a blessing that we can only solemnly accept, hoping that one day we may be able to return to repay this place for all they did.
“Take care, you two and don’t forget this old place!“
The villagers smile at us before we finally exchange our last greetings and go on our way to the capital, my heart thrumming within my chest as I think of everything that is about to take place.
“It will be alright. You have me.”
Kyubei encourages me, sensing my anxiety as he reaches out for my hand, a reassuring squeeze returning some of my confidence as we trot down the road.
Night is already falling when we arrive in Kyoto, the journey leaving me sore on the horse as we quickly head into an inn before anyone can see us.
“You should rest, my dearest.”
His hushed words sound inviting, tempting me to take him up on the offer, but the knowledge of the dangers ahead and my own promise towards Kyubei prevents me from doing so.
(You don’t have to live in the shadows alone anymore. I will be there with you.)
“The thought of exposing you to all this danger makes me sick to the stomach.”
As if sensing my own fatigue Kyubei expresses his own worries clearly as he places a hand against my cheek. Instinctively I lean into his warmth as my hand reaches for his remaining one, holding it tightly as I shake my head.
Pressing my lips into the palm of his hand Kyubei’s hold stiffens before he releases the breath he was holding, a smile forming around his lips as he eyes me helplessly.
“I trust you, will you trust me?”
"I was taught by the best.”
“You have me.”
“You are amazing.“
The words come out breathy, but there is no regret in them as we exchange a look, his dark blue eyes shimmering in confidence now as he is reminded of my growth.
But there is a plan to be executed and no time to rest. With one last glance Kyubei departs into the night to set up the first stage.
(In the meanwhile I will have to brace myself.)
"Well, well, who have I found here?”
A slippery snakey voice comes up behind me, sending the shivers down my back when I turn to meet the man that Kyubei was supposed to meet.
“Mitsuhide?”
The rising confusion within me clamours my heart as I wonder what is going on.
“Indeed, that’s what they call me. Now, come along quickly.”
Character: Kyubae the bae’st bae of all aka Kyubei
A/N: WOW HI NICE TO SEE YOU! I hope you are happy to see me as well because Kyubei’s romantic route is finally o u t!!! Everyday a new Kyubei chapter, like you get one story part every day in the games as well. Enjoy!
The key of chapter 10.2 was (Romantic/Dramatic):
+4/+4
+4/+2
+2/+4
Recap:Kyubei and I escaped Kichou and Motonari but we aren’t safe yet. Though our feelings are out in the open Kyubei still needs to hide as the forces are after him.
“This should get your husband right back on his legs!”
I feel a blush creep up while the merchant wraps up the medicine for me, accepting my money while exchanging the package.
(Keep it together!)
The merchant’s wife laughs at me as she wraps up two buns, pushing them into my arms before I can refuse.
“Take it as our blessing to your new union.”
Feeling the heat crawl up further from my collar I cough out a ‘thank you’ before quickly hurrying back to the little hut in which Kyubei and I have settled ourselves for the time being.
(They just immediately assumed that we were a married couple. Not that I mind! Just…)
“I’m back!”
Stepping through the courtyard I hear the sound of wood being split, the loud crack hinting at how laborious the job is and taxing to the body.
“Kyubei!”
Broad shoulders freeze in their movement, arresting the axe in the air as a bared back is covered with a curtain of dark hair cascading down. Slowly, Kyubei turns his head towards me, a guilty smile escaping him as he gently puts the axe down.
(Handsome sight, but bad!)
“You’re back. I was hoping to finish this before you did.”
Sucking in a breath I try to not let Kyubei’s smile distract me, or his chest as he turns around.
(Or anything else! Ack!)
“Also, did you forget?”
Before I can scold the man, Kyubei comes up at me, bending slightly to meet me on eyelevel as he flashes me a mischievous smile, his eyes curling up in anticipation as I suck in my breath.
“Hmpf!”
“Forget what?”
“H-Huu…”
Pouting Kyubei’s fingers play around with my hair as he takes the medicine, along with a bun out of my hands.
“I’m waiting, my dearest wife.”
Even though I know it to be fake I can’t help but feel myself flush again as I lean into his chest, covering my face as Kyubei’s laughs heartily while wrapping an arm around my shoulder.
(I really am no match to him.)
“Husband.”
I finally manage to huff out with my heart drumming in my ear.
It had been a few days after that we had escaped Kicho and Motonari, though we still needed to lay low and in hiding. Luckily Kyubei knew of a remote village where we could settle down for a bit where he could recover from his fever.
(But this roleplaying is bad for my heart!)
“Another wedding present?”
Kyubei’s smile is teasing as he opens the bun, revealing its sweet filling containing nuts and red berries, the meaning and symbolism obvious and as clear as the day itself.
(Ahaha… not again.)
“They’re so excited.”
Laughing Kyubei takes a bite from the bun before holding the other half out in front of my mouth, coaxing me to take a bite as well, as I try to calm down my racing heart.
“Though impertinent I don’t mind it, however.”
I nearly choke on my bun hearing Kyubei’s words as he gently pats my back to help me.
“You should dress already. And take your medicine.”
I try to distract myself as I push the package into his chest. Taking the package from me Kyubei wraps his fingers around my wrist as he pulls my hand up, pressing his lips just underneath my thumb. There is another broad smile on his lips as I feel heat travelling up from my arm, leaving goosebumps as he lays my hand flat against the side of his face.
“My fever has already gone down, dear wife. Do you feek that?”
He is right in his claims, but my hand still feels hot as I struggle with keeping myself still.
(He really is Mitsuhide’s vassal!)
“Tease.”
When he finally releases me I can’t help but suppress a giggle, sure that there is a goofy smile on my own face despite all of the blushing I’m doing.
“Yours.”
His answer earns him a quasi-glare as I push him back towards our hut, encouraging Kyubei to get dressed already while I head to check on the stove.
(The man is definitely not good for my heart, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.)
“Anyone here?”
Another voice chimes in and Kyubei’s back tenses for a second before relaxing as he turns around with a pleasant smile.
“Weaver, what brings you here?”
In bounces a young girl, followed by her grandmother who is carrying a set of folded fabrics, her eyes set into half moon smiles.
“Making sure you guys don’t offend any ancestors.”
The grandmother’s smile is bright as she unfolds the fabrics, revealing a beautiful wedding robe.
“It is old and worn, but it is rare that we have such a happy occasion here in the village.”
The lady admits this with a fond smile, making it impossible to resist.
“I’m here to call the shots! I will make the whole village hear!”
Weaver, the young girl, exclaims as she puts her hands on her hips. A pride beaming off her as her grandmother laughs quietly.
“She has only heard of my ceremony through stories, forgive her excitement.”
(It is true that in these turbulent times the commoners don’t have the money or the resources to set up a wedding ceremony.)
(It is touching to know this grandmother is willing to part with her own precious memory to make it happen in the village for a set of strangers.)
“You haven’t had a ceremony, right? I just assumed such, because of the state you were in upon arrival.”
We could only agree to it, our hearts warmed to know there was such a village somewhere out there that welcomed strangers so warmly.
