aedysa
(╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻┬─┬ノ( º _ ºノ)
221 posts
Latest Posts by aedysa
Beat Takeshi stars as Hideyoshi in “Kubi” 首, a movie where he’s also involved in the scriptwriting, and also is the director!
To think that this showed up not long after I shared that old Toyota advertisement! However, unlike the more positive Hideyoshi image in the Toyota ad, the PR of this movie says that the plot follows the “Hideyoshi is the mastermind behind Honnouji” conspiracy. So we can expect a scheming, or even a somewhat sinister Hideyoshi in this production.
加瀬亮 Kase Ryou will play as Nobunaga, 西島秀俊 Nishijima Hidetoshi as Mitsuhide, and 浅野忠信 Asano Tadanobu in double role as both Kuroda Kanbei and Hideyoshi’s brother Hidenaga.
It’s always a little strange to me, to see a ridiculously old Hideyoshi when the actor cast as Nobunaga is much younger, but it’s a thing that’s very commonly done in Japanese live action productions and illustrated artwork.
Internet Security 101: Actual Advice for avoiding pedophilles and predators on the internet!
I do this for a job.
- Do not ever put a picture you took online without using a Metadata Remover Program first. Coding.Tools has one, and there are apps for it. If you do not, then any creep smart enough to google a metadata/EXIF viewer can find your LONGITUDE LATITUDE AND CAMERA INFO.
- Tape your webcam when its not in use. That way, even if something nasty gets on your computer, it cannot record you.
- Predators will lie to you about themselves. They will present themselves to be your peer, talk about your hobbies. As a result, a key skill in not looking like an easy target is not giving in to peer pressure.
- All of those posts on how you should reblog and comment on fics DO NOT APPLY TO YOU, if you are a minor and it is a smutfic. Even if your age isn’t in your profile.
- Don’t sign up for a billion different things with your email. Use Tenminutemail if you can.
- Discord servers are public spaces. Don’t say anything that you wouldn’t say in a public space. You don’t know who has screenshots, you don’t know if your grandmother will join the server a month after you leave. Act accordingly.
- Never use your real name online unless there it is a paid service. Either pick a fictional character, or make an alias up. I’m fond of using HP Lovecraft for websites that are too damn nosey about my name.
- Don’t list your triggers online. You are giving every creep on the street personal info about what makes you tick. If I were a particularly conniving predator, I could lie and say I have been through simmilar trauma to gain your trust. They are criminals, they do that.
- Lying on the internet for the purposes of protecting yourself is always morally okay. That cool joke your best friend told you the other day that you want to post about? Bam! Thats now your sister. Tell the story as you wish. Make everyone who follows you mildly confused about your family tree.
- This goes doubly so when people you know IRL follow you: Never mention if you are home alone or on vacation until after the fact. Don’t post vacation photos until you get home.
- You know those security questions? That you can use to regain your password when you are locked out of something? Most of those are googleable. I reccomend going with something subjective and/or smartass. (Favorite food is better than mothers maiden name.) This is important because if I get into your email, I can get into anything that email is attached to.
- If finding criminals online were easy, the police (and I.) would be out of a job. They are smarter than you think, always err on the side of caution.
The ONLY WAY to combat the lack of funding in arts education is for professionals to take a few hours a week to share their skills for FREE, to empower and encourage the next generation of artists. THIS IS WHAT THE INTERNET IS FOR. Here’s 200 tutorials:
How to draw ANGRY EXPRESSIONS How to draw BATTLE DAMAGE How to draw BIRD HEADS How to draw BOOKS How to draw BOTTLES and GLASSES How to draw BOXES How to draw BREAKING GLASS How to draw BRICKWORK How to draw CABLES and WIRES How to draw CAR CHASES How to draw CATERPILLAR TRACKS How to draw CAVES How to draw CHARACTERS (3-SHAPES) How to draw CHARACTERS (FLIPPED-SHAPES) How to draw CHARACTER SHAPES How to draw CITYSCAPES How to draw COMIC COVERS How to draw COMPOSITION How to draw CONTRAST How to draw CONVERSATIONS How to draw CREATURE TEETH How to draw CROSS-CONTOURS How to draw DETAIL AT DISTANCE How to draw EARS How to draw FABRIC How to draw FEET & SHOES How to draw FEMALE HANDS PART ONE How to draw FEMALE HANDS PART TWO How to draw FLAGS How to draw FOOD TRUCKS How to draw FOREGROUND MIDGROUND BACKGROUND How to draw GAME BUILDINGS How to draw GEMS and CRYSTALS How to draw GHOSTS How to draw GIRL’S HAIR How to draw GOLD How to draw GRASS How to draw HAIR (1940s styles) How to draw HAIR IN MOTION How to draw HAPPY EXPRESSIONS How to draw HEAD ANGLES How to draw HOOVES How to draw HORNS How to draw HORSE HEADS How to draw IMPACT DEBRIS How to draw IN 3D How to draw INTEGRATING LOGOS How to draw INTERIOR BASICS How to draw IN-WORLD TYPOGRAPHY How to draw JUMPS How to draw JUNGLE PLANT CLUSTERS How to draw JUNK HOUSES How to draw LAMP POSTS How to draw LAVA How to draw LIGHTNING and ELECTRICITY How to draw MECHANICAL DETAILS How to draw MUSHROOMS and FUNGUS How to draw MONSTER HEADS How to draw MONSTER TENTACLES How to draw MONSTER TRUCKS How to draw MOUNTAINS How to draw NEGATIVE SPACE How to draw NEWSPAPERS How to draw NOSES How to draw OVERGROWN VEGETATION How to draw PEBBLES AND GRAVEL How to draw PERSPECTIVE BOXES How to draw PIGS How to draw PILLOWS and CUSHIONS How to draw POD HOUSES How to draw POURING LIQUID How to draw ROBOT ARMS How to draw ROCK FORMATIONS How to draw RUNNING FIGURES How to draw SAND How to draw SAUSAGE DOGS How to draw SEA WEED How to draw SHADOW COMPOSITION How to draw SHOULDER ARMOUR How to draw SIEGE WEAPONS How to draw SILHOUETTE THUMBNAILS How to draw SMALL FLAMES How to draw SMALL, MEDIUM, LARGE How to draw SMOKE EFFECTS How to draw SNOW How to draw SPACE BIKES How to draw SQUIRRELS How to draw STICK FIGURES How to draw SWORD FIGHTS How to draw THE HORIZON How to draw TIKI STATUES How to draw TREASURE CHESTS How to draw TREE BARK How to draw TREE ROOTS How to draw USING THE SHATTER TECHNIQUE How to draw VEHICLE STANCE How to draw VINES How to draw VINTAGE PLANES How to draw WATER How to draw WOODEN HOUSES
Now I’m the villain!
I made a quiz that tells you which character trope you fit best! There’s ten different results! Feel free to take it!
Reblog in the tags what you got!
About Those Types Misconceptions
INFP: They’re fierce - INFPs often remain silent and are very observant of other people and what makes them who they are, but this apparent softness hides a very passionate drive to do what is right, and if ever a situation or a person does not align with their principles, you will definitely know about it - do not underestimate them.
ENFP: They’re very analytical - Yes ENFPs can seem a little crazy and like they’re constantly fooling around, but it is to be remembered that this type is extremely perceptive of their environment and of ideas, that they dissect carefully and draw conclusions from. They have true depth, and labelling them as shallow would be a big mistake.
INFJ: They’re quite independent - It may sound strange but INFJs are quite independent. They strive to help people to be better individuals and to make the world a nicer place, but they follow their own rules and will not hesitate long to react if you go against them. Harmony is their priority, but don’t you cross them. The difference with INFP is that INFPs will simply see this other person who does not conform to their vision as not really worth their time, INFJs on the other hand trying to change this person’s mind-set for a kinder approach, etc.
ENFJ: They struggle - ENFJs are probably the most disorganised of all J-types, and they take on sometimes way more than they can carry. Even if these guys try to help people as much they can, sometimes it isn’t enough and that can go against them. The bubbly stereotype does not apply to all ENFJs unfortunately, since they can get depressed easily, and thereby stop their advising functions.
INTP: They really care - INTPs can sometimes seem off and uninterested, but this most-likely comes from a system of self-defence to prevent them from harm, as they may have been previously neglected for their ideas or conceptions of the world, and have been misunderstood. If an INTP likes and cares for you, there is nothing they would not do, and their aloofness is not to be taken as pride or smugness (although sometimes they like to be ;) and they genuinely care.
ENTP: They’re just feeling half the time - ENTPs are absolutely mind-blowing master concealers. Their emotions get triggered by the littlest things, and they spend a lot of their time, if not almost all of it, concealing what they perceive as weaknesses under fair amounts of witty comebacks and confidence. These people are actually great empaths, but their chosen priority being logic, they often toss those feelings away for later, and often avoid them until it’s too late.
INTJ: They have feelings - Similar to ENTP, except INTJs truly master their emotions, and manage to chanel them instead of shutting them away. INTJs have a good deal of feelings, except they don’t necessarily feel the need to talk about them, and prefer rational advice when considering their emotional needs, which is seldom given. INTJs openly reject the myth that they lack feelings, and may feel even more misunderstood when they have the impression that they are expressing them, as sometimes they do, but in ways most people don’t perceive because they are seemingly so small, which can be hurtful.
ENTJ: They’re understanding - I’ve said this already, I’m always quite awed by ENTJs, but once you get to know them, they are truly open people. More than once have I heard them give relationship advice, and try to help people understand concepts with detailed explanations and diagrams, they strive for a more efficient and knowledgeable world, which can be seen through a sometimes devoted attitude.
ISFP: They’re not always kind to themselves - ISFPs may appear as charismatic, different, inspired and like they like themselves quite a bit (and that is absolutely great) but sometimes, when their creativity lets them down for example, they have the impression that they are now devoid of their identity, and may feel lost, and even over-criticize themselves. They need to be understood and comforted in their unicity and worth, almost as if they possessed Fe but not quite.
ISTP: They can feel quite lonely - ISTPs love peace and quiet and alone time, but sometimes loneliness can become quite painful. Composing only 2% of the overall population, ISTPs often feel like few if any people actually understand them, and that it may be easier just to crawl back onto themselves and create a shell to self-sustain instead of socialising and creating bonds with people.
ESFP: They’re nostalgic - Living in the moment is often a way for ESFPs to have peace of mind, as their brains are involved elsewhere. Their need for company and action is their way of escaping their responsibilities, that remind them once again that they’re adults or growing into adults now, and that means, for them, that fun is almost over and that they’re going to turn into “boring people”, or be coerced into becoming “normal people”, which their Fi has difficulty dealing with.
ESTP: They value your opinion greatly - ESTPs have strong views on many subjects and they are also very passionate individuals, but boy do they need to be validated. It’s not a bad thing, of course, it’s simply a little surprising (although it shouldn’t be) that someone under appearances so outgoing and frank and sometimes even careless may need approval that what they are doing is good, and that they are accepted.
ISFJ: They’re strong - ISFJs may constantly be trying to please everybody and adhere to everything, but deep down, they know who they are. They know what they like, what they dislike, what they are willing to tolerate, and what they are not. They are capable of enduring so much without ever complaining, and are truly inspiring people, who can talk about anything they set their mind to.
ESFJ: They’re insecure - Organisation and procedure are the ways in which ESFJs try to live by, but it can also truly hide a very anxious nature. Planning is what ESFJs do to prevent lack of resources and preparing ahead to survive is a way in which ESFJs feel that they are under control. Their bubbly nature shows their need to be loved and feel like they have worth. Don’t rely too much on them, although they really want to carry your load with, or even for, you.
ISTJ: They feel misunderstood - Nobody is as organised, structured and rigorous as ISTJs, and the world’ s messiness can be quite overwhelming to them sometimes. That feeling that they’re the only ones holding it all together and getting everything done for everyone can make them feel like they’re being used or that people don’t appreciate them for their true worth, for what they are deep down.
ESTJ: They doubt a lot - ESTJs may appear very confident and they may be your bosses most of the time because they’re great administrators with a plan based on sound facts, but the truth is ESTJs are almost constantly questioning if they’re doing the right thing, and the fear of failure is very much present.
😅 Yes to NOT showering for a week and stayed in my room...unfortunately.
So i’ve found this treasure on pinterest today
I feel called out 😂😭
Most people experiencing infatuation: wow he’s so cute. I’m in love. Let me tell you everything possible about him
Me, an INTP: wow. This is really inconvenient and mildly annoying. Every time I think of him serotonin floods my digestive system and it feels weird. And I could literally be filling my mind with anything other than this stupid boy right now.
WELP! I guess I have to watch out for this unrepentant bird while I sleep tonight.
ICE made a decision to order all international students whose universities are online to leave the country or risk facing immigration consequences and getting deported which essentially means that students will have to decide between leaving the US or risk their health. many countries don’t even have their borders open and some people may not even have places to go so please sign this petition which requests that international students get the option to finish their degrees and remain in the USA
googledocs you are getting awfully uppity for something that can’t differentiate between “its” and “it’s” correctly
I saw the memes for the second Wayhaven book and decided to join in on the fun
Wayhaven Chronicles Book 2 Be like
SAVE DOUG + BE KIND TO DOUG =
And lets not talk about how he practically immitated Adam's choice of clothing when he approached Detective that eventful night.
But his attempt at seduction is quite entertaining.
My favorite scene. Got me glued till the end.
For just a moment there, I thought maybe.
Brave Heart
Fandom: Samurai Love Ballad: PARTY
Pairing: Hideyoshi/MC, Kojuro/MC (broken relationship)
Summary: Hideyoshi is curious about his newest retainer’s wife. The one who traveled alone across lands to be with him. He realizes, over time, that his curiosity might be turning into something else, something familiar.
Words: 2198
Tags: broken marriage, angst (?)
A/N: This is something I started after having finished Kojuro’s Act 2 and hence, has spoilers for his Act 2. Originally planned as a smut/angst fic, it now lies incomplete and rots within my WIPs.
Putting this out here because of Mitsunari’s Act 2 now. I wanted to write something for Hideyoshi, dark cape Lord of my heart. Someday, I’ll finish this… I think.
Might take it down later when I’ve stopped sobbing over Mitsunari’s Act 2.
Unedited as well, so please excuse the errors.
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Hideyoshi had no other word for her except that she was a hindrance. An anomaly he hadn’t predicted; couldn’t have predicted. She was a mere chink within his Kojuro’s perfect armour, albeit a small one but a defect nonetheless.
Kojuro’s frosty denial of a relationship between them had been enough to confirm his suspicions. She was important to him, perhaps in the very capacity she had so confidently declared when she had first met him; the conjugal bond between them, however, swiftly betrayed as soon as the news had reached her said husband’s ears.
Hideyoshi couldn’t exactly pinpoint what exactly it was about her that had caught his gaze - more than anything had in a long while.
It hadn’t been blatant interest but rather, a flickering curiosity that had taken him, as he had looked down upon her kneeling form, her quivering lips pressed into a firm line as she had lifted her head to meet his eyes.
It had been a look lacking of any remorse or fear that had taken her features as she had gazed at him. It was not the way enemies looked upon him with defiance in every line of their bodies, but with a quiet sort of strength that refused to be moulded, pierced through him as he stared into her quivering eyes.
She hadn’t shed a single tear as might have been expected of another samurai’s noble wife; back straight with no hesitance in her, even as he had requested of her – no, she had known it was a command, even delivered with his usual easy smile – to serve him as his page.
It had been a split second decision on his part, and that was an unusual thing for Hideyoshi, to not tread carefully wherever was possible.
He would later convince himself into believing he had acted as such in order to prevent Kojuro and his wife from being together, lest she take away more of him with her.
Keep reading
Is Oda Nobutaka's death poem historical? If so, why isn't it brought up more often? It seems like a pretty damning condemnation of Hideyoshi for Honnoji.
In the first place you were mistaken: It has absolutely nothing to do with Honnouji. Nobutaka’s death poem was tied to the succession conflict after Honnouji. Despite the Kiyosu Conference concluding with the decision of electing Sanboushi (Nobutada’s son) to become the new clan head, Hideyoshi did things that offended Nobutaka, and war was waged.
The actual poem:
昔より主を討つ身の野間なれば報いを待てや羽柴筑前
mukashi yorishū o utsu mi noNoma narebamukui o mateyaHashiba Chikuzen*
If it must be Nomawhere men killed their lordin ancient days,await your own comeuppance!Hashiba Chikuzen (Hideyoshi)
I’m assuming you were talking about this “lord” in the poem. This referred to the Heian era samurai Minamoto no Yoshitomo, who was betrayed by his vassals and died in Noma. He was buried in the very same temple Nobutaka committed seppuku. So this “lord” reference doesn’t mean Nobunaga, but Nobutaka himself.
Tokugawa vassals’ communication in the following year also had referred to Nobunaga’s sons as Hideyoshi’s “lords”. A letter sent out by Sakakibara Yasumasa condemned Hideyoshi for being ungrateful to his former masters, as he was “not satisfied with killing just one lord” (Nobutaka), but is now also trying to go after the other one (Nobukatsu).
About whether or not the death poem is REAL, it’s entirely debatable. There’s two different poems recorded, and the second one does not mention Hideyoshi at all.
たらちねの 名をばくださじ 梓弓 いなばの山の 露と消ゆとも
Translation/interpretation for this cannot be found. For what it’s worth, the parts I do understand say this: “Mother’s name [ばくださじ]/Cherry birch bow/The dew of Mount Inaba fades”.
Both poems are found in Edo era records, and no contemporary copies were ever discovered so far. There’s no way to verify that this is an accurate copy especially if it’s second-hand documentation***.
Part of the reason for it to be considered “weird” is because the one who ambushed Nobutaka and brought the order of seppuku was his own brother Nobukatsu. Why would Nobutaka be angry at Hideyoshi and not his brother? There’s a bit of difficulty in determining what Nobukatsu’s status here, but at any rate, it can’t be immediately assumed that Nobutaka is upset with Hideyoshi because his brother is for some reason serving Hideyoshi.
There’s a possibility that while bringing down the order Nobukatsu said bad things about Hideyoshi, but there’s also a bigger chance that the poem itself is recorded wrong or fake.
***) This matters because the Shinchoukouki, considered the most reliable account of Nobunaga, is also technically an Edo-era record (compiled in 1600s). However the author Ota Gyuuichi is an eyewitness, so the text is considered mostly accurate due to being a first hand account. The only problem being that if this was written much later, he might have forgotten the specifics, or got details mixed up
Bloggers who are struggling with hate asks
I know there are so many bloggers out there who are dealing with haters, especially the more popular ones. But I personally see this as a good sign, because it means you are gaining popularity? Plus, hate messages are usually funny to me bcs they make no sense whatsoever. It's usually like "your blog sucks" or "no one likes you". Like uhhh okay?? 😂 Yet you took time to look at my blog, how ironic🤷♀️🤷♀️🤷♀️.
To haters: Pls feel free to send those bcs I love sarcasm ♡♡♡♡ or if you have nerve to dm me, please do that too ♡
Difference between Hate and Criticism
In my definition, hate is more like random msg with no proof or reason. It's totally emotional thing, whether you are feeling jealous, angry or whatever. Hates doesn't mean they ACTUALLY hate your content. They might be just having a bad day, and want to vent their stress online. Hate messages are STILL VERY wrong. The words you mindlessly throw, can hurt others (unless you are weird like me who laugh at those hate messages). If you are just having a stressful day, find another way to vent your stress- not by hurting others. Go do something productive or go have a talk with someone close. Stay AWAY from social media if you are just online to send random hate messages.
Criticism on the other hand, has reason. It's just not simple "your blog sucks". It might NOT always be logical or reasonable. Opinions/reasons can be totally biased, but it does have reason of some sort lol. So instead of just saying "your blog sucks", it will have something like "your blog sucks because......" Criticism can be seen as one form of feedback, but it's up to you whether you will take that piece of opinion or not.
So please, dont just send "I hate your blog" and say it was a valid criticism lol. No that's not criticism, that's straight out hate.
I know there has been a few of complaints in the past about things I post. I personally get really irritated when those get sent through ask. It's nothing personal towards you. If you have constructional criticism about my blog (not just "your blog sucks" but with reason and points), which bother majority of the people in this fandom, please dm me, not through ask. If you send through ask, more chances are I will get annoyed and give you only a reply that you don't wanna hear lol. If you dm though, there is a way to communicate- so more chance for compromising (I said chance for a reason). However, if it annoys you personally, pls just unfollow or block.
My point is that, bloggers shouldn't feel discouraged because of haters. Because 1) its saying that you gained that much fame. 2) They might actually like your blog because they are checking on your blog frequently just to trashtalk LOL (pls go find a better hobby).
Never be depressed by hate messages. Haters want to see you sad. Don't give what they want.
Stay strong bloggers♡
If anyone is struggling with hate ask, and dont know how to answer- feel free to dm me.
Oh, Anon tsk tsk tsk 🤦♀🤷♀🤷♂🤦♂
You shipping reylo is ok but you writing anything is not. Have you read your own writing? That Secret Santa fic was such a trash, even the garbage men won't want to pick it up. People have talents, but you certainly don't have that for writing or anything. Good thing you seem like your a rich girl and there are things you can afford but forcing yourself to write? Just give it up already. Met us all have a good Christmas. Spare us!!!!
Hello! Thank you for your feedback and thank you for taking the time to read the fic I wrote even if you thought it was trash. As far as writing is concerned, I never said I was any good at it but I certainly think I'm not that atrocious. Thank you for being a fan and for being concerned about my well-being. I wish you a Happy Christmas and hope that you continue to give me feedback on whatever it is I do because you seem to know better and I really respect your wise counsel. 💕
Love and light. 💕
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Seasons in Japan
Establish boundaries beforehand and know that you are your own person.
So what? If my actions inconvenience people, then as long as I did not hurt anyone (perhaps their ego but its their problem) its alright.
Tryst Under Wintry Sky
Fandom: Samurai Love Ballad Party
Characters: Oniniwa Tsunamoto x Original Female Character
Summary:
Finally, Lord Tsunamoto stopped, admiring Airi's tender form that was sprawled on the bed beneath him like a predator trapping his prey. "Last chance, do you want this, Airi? After this, you won’t be able to leave after I'm done,” he whispered to her ear, his breathing fast and heavy.
[MATURE CONTENT!!!] Inspired by “A Date with Tsunamoto” a story from Grand Samurai Street Fair. And the continuation of my earlier work “Romance Under Wintry Sky”
PART 1: Romance Under Wintry Sky
Also posted AO3.
When Airi opened her eyes, the sky outside had lit up even though there were heavy winter clouds hovering below. The glow illuminated the things on the floor next to her. She could see several jars of empty and half-filled sake and two sake bowls: one was upright, the other upturned, whose contents had long spilled the futon she was sleeping on.
Airi felt her head splitting, her body much warmer than the cold air. Her ears with faint ringing as the strong flow of blood ran into her head. She unconsciously moved but felt someone was blocking her effort. In a daze, she glanced at her back and was instantly stunned.
She was lying beside Lord Tsunamoto, her back on his bare, muscular torso; filling her with his heat. Under the quilt they both share, she could feel both of his arms clutching her waist and her chest. Wait...when did we... She felt very lightheaded so much that she momentarily fails to remember the events last night.
Airi began to sit up, but felt so weak and in pain that she could only take in a deep breath. She made every effort to rouse herself, but nothing prepared her for what she's going to see.
When the quilt that was covering Airi's body fell off, she found the upper hem of her kimono undone, revealing a number of small yet tender marks on her supple flesh; the bottom part of her clothing was pushed all the way up to her thighs.
And, to Airi's biggest surprise, a dull ache between her legs.
Flowers suddenly burst out from Airi's cheeks. No matter how slow her thinking is right now, how could she NOT know what had happened here?
Airi's utter surprise made her memories of last night come into existence…
Airi had Lord Tsunamoto offer her jars of sake to celebrate her "love confession". The night had been young and both were in good spirits, talking, holding each other close to stave off the cold, until Airi felt a little too lightheaded that she collapsed unto Lord Tsunamoto...
So close that Airi could smell her lord’s scent on his nape, so intoxicating she had an urge to lick it.
"I think that's enough drinking." the man’s voice was concerned and sounded far away.
"Just one more please," Airi spoke as she struggled with keeping her mind afloat. But, she couldn't resist biting her lip when she saw Lord Tsubamoto's bare chest. Beautiful. She leaned towards her lord as her eyes traced her lord's jawline, and then unconsciously traced her finger ever so gently unto his well-toned torso. Her lord seemed to wince at her gesture but didn't stop her actions. Due to a momentary clear-headedness, Airi stopped and reached for another bowl of sake.
Oh no, did I just touch Lord Tsunamoto? Airi tried to shake away the clouds in her head. Her coordination was so poor that the bowl suddenly went upturned before she could pick it up.
Oh dear, what a mess…
"Aww. That's too bad. That must have tasted good for you to drink a lot," the man gave her a rakish smile but Airi's vision was somewhat off as it was more of an annoying smug to her.
"I drank more during my younger years, this is nothing," she pouted, her face flushed and her head started to spin. Chilling air finally settled on her as the cool snowfall became heavier outside the inn. She clung to him for his heat as if her life depended on it. This gesture made Lord Tsunamoto slightly wince.
"W-Wait, A-airi—?!!" her lord had looked flustered as the rosy color on his face became even redder. On a different circumstance, he would have indulged her but his honor wouldn't allow him to indulge a woman who is drunk. The sober Airi knew this, and yet at that present state, she needed to embrace him for his enormous heat for herself. The lord tried to free himself but his inner demon slowly crept out of him and had drained his self-control. His normal eye started to get darker each second.
"Sorry, I just feel cold," Airi tightened her arms around him so close she could hear his heartbeat beating so fast like a rabbit, and a warm hard bulge between his waist and hers. She looked down to touch it. Is this what I think it is?
Before Airi knew it, Lord Tsunamoto’s face was inches away from her. Her hand that was touching the bulge was immediately taken by him. She could barely see his eye, which seemed different? It was dark as if beneath its depth held intense hunger and thirst for something.
Or...for someone.
"Do you have any idea how my heart races in a way unbefitting of my years?" the tone became more raspy as if trying hard to contain himself. "You made it nigh impossible to maintain my sophisticated composure," he tried to humor her but he failed as his inner desire became more and more apparent.
Airi smiled naughtily, I love it when you're on the verge of losing control, actually. You look cute when you're flustered. However, it seemed the alcohol in her body made her speak her thoughts at that very moment.
Because for some reason, Lord Tsunamoto stiffened as if something inside him snapped. His aura completely changed as if this isn't the dignified samurai Airi knew.
Before she could ask him, he suddenly pulled her to his body so strong that it took Airi's breath away. "You have no idea what you do to me." he rasped into her ear and gave it a sweet lick that sent cold yet welcome shivers into Airi's soul.
"Huh, but I—," before Airi could finish, Lord Tsunamoto dragged her down to their futon for a deep hungry kiss. He pinned Airi underneath him but she didn't resist. Then, his warm moist lips fluttered down her neck, sucking and kissing her tender spots as excitement filled Airi's loins.
"Oh, Lord Tsunamoto…"Airi sighed as he gave her more kisses on her chest, and onto her breasts. Every time his lips sucks her supple flesh, her whole being arched in pleasure.
Finally, Lord Tsunamoto stopped, admiring Airi's tender form that was sprawled on the bed beneath him like a predator trapping his prey. "Last chance, do you want this, Airi? After this, you won’t be able to leave after I'm done,” he whispered to her ear, his breathing fast and heavy.
“Yes,” Airi’s own voice thick just as the same.
Afterwards, he was all business. He undone her kimono up to her waist, revealing her supple flesh, and kissed Airi deeply. She could feel one hand caressing her breast and the other snaking through her knees and into her inner thighs.
Then, Lord Tsunamoto gently licked and sucked her ear as he rubbed Airi’s sensitive spot below that sent Airi’s body arching in pure ecstasy: feeling the growing wetness in between her legs and the bulge from her lord’s lower regions.
“I hope you’re in for a sleepless night,” he breathed heavily into her ear as he removed his clothes and reached for his cock and stroked it to hardness, “because I’m not going to put you down for a second, Airi.”
And then, the next thing Airi knew, her world became a myriad of pleasure and pain, of cool air and warm bodies, heavy breaths and lusty moans and a force so strong as though she was enveloped inside a violent storm. She saw her lor face filled with desire. His sweat trickled down from his head and down into his jaw, and dripped onto her naked chest as he continued whatever his beast wanted him to do her: grunting and thrusting his rod in-and-out of her core as his rasps thick with his own lust.
“Gods...you are so <i>tight</i>”
“Ah...Ah…Please...,” Airi gasped in pleasure as her lord made his way with her. But she couldn’t finish her sentence because he had moved his fingers and stroked her sensitive core as he thrust her even harder.
“What?” the beast smirked as panted heavily, watching how his every thrust made Airi's supple flesh move up-and-down and how their bed shake with his actions. “Does that feel good?”
“Nnggh!” Airi felt much pleasure, that her alcohol-addled mind couldn’t sort her words but moan. Lord Tsunamoto gave her another deep kiss, his tongue exploring her mouth as he muffled her moans.
“Don’t worry," he could see a thin line of saliva connecting his lips and hers, which turned his beast even more. "You’ll feel even good after this.” Before Airi could respond, the beast inside Lord Tsunamoto turned her in such a way she was on all fours. His warm tongue traced her spine up to the back of her neck as her senses fired up in anticipation. His fingers began to stroke her core much deeper as if to explore until he hit the spot that made Airi scream.
“N-no...not that!” Airi’s eyes widened from the sensation but Lord Tsunamoto only grinned at her ear.
“Relax, this is the right spot to make you come for me.” He then proceeded to lick her ear and kissed it that gave Airi even more shivers. “Take a deep breath, don’t resist.”
Airi gasped as she tried to inhale more air as the pent up pleasure from her core becomes too much to bear. She could feel her strength failing her but she didn’t care. She could feel his fingers stroked the spot again and again until warm wetness flowed from her core. He then pierced her with his cock afterwards and thrust it from her behind.
There was something primal when doing it from Airi's back as she couldn’t help but feel the thrill of every fiber of her loins as his thick long rod went in-and-out of her, feeling its roughness while moving inside her. Just as her limbs had failed her from the exertion, the man grasped her hands, moving them behind her back as he used it to steady herself during his thrusts.
“Ah!...AAHHH!” her lord went in so deep that made her scream her loudest. For a moment, she was worried others in the inn might hear, but she is lost in her own pleasure just as her lord unleashed his most powerful thrust.
“Hang on!” Lord Tsunamoto wrapped his arms around Airi’s waist and her chest as his thrusts went even faster. His orgasm almost close. “Airi...Airi… I...love...you...so...very...much,” Lord Tsunamoto grunted behind her again and again as his thrusts became even deeper that Airi's mind became lost in her own ecstasy. Her moans and screams of pleasure only served to fuel her lord's inner beast to defile her innocence even further.
"Nggghh! Ahhhhh!" The storm within Airi reached her breaking point that her heart burst into fireworks just as her pent up pleasure broke free from her lips. Lord Tsunamoto gave her one last powerful thrust before his warm seeds filled the young maid’s core.
"Airi," she heard her lord's weakened voice from before her vision grew dim. "I love you."
Both passed out afterwards, still entangled for heat as the room once again became slightly colder as their deed died down.
“Awake?” a voice shook Airi from her reverie.
Airi did her best to restore her calm expression but no matter how she concealed it, there were some traces of panic and shame on her face. <i>I seduced him? I had slept with Lord Tsunamoto? Just like that?</i> When Lord Tsunamoto saw this, he began to laugh. His well-toned naked body exposed her for her eyes to see which only made her blush.
“You were quite…naughty last night, young lady. I didn’t think you had it in you. So why are you scared now?” the man smirked.
Although Airi had always dreamed of having Lord Tsunamoto for herself, she wanted to take things slow and orderly, such as letting people in Oshu accept her first as a potential bride for her lord. Making a name for herself so she could compete with other girls. Sleeping with him like this is like a blow to his and her honor. What would the people think of her? A temptress who dishonored a noble samurai with sake? She would be judged severely.
But despite that, she was happy she did it with him. She never regretted what happened last night.
Airi knelt down, her legs trembled in pain as her arms had even less strength than before. Yet, she made every effort to bow down before Lord Tsunamoto, “I have wronged you, Milord. My actions were…improper. Punish me as you see fit.”
The man frowned. He approached her, clutching Airi’s shoulders to help her on her feet. “Airi, you did nothing wrong. I was a bit tipsy too, so we’re even. Besides, your body really pleased my little brother. There is nothing wrong with serving your lord like this.” He winked at her direction.
That humor made Airi chuckle just as her face turned red from the implications. Oh, Lord Tsunamoto, you shameless flirt! For a while, his casual demeanor for being a flirty rake eased her discomfort.
"Do you regret it?" Lord Tsunamoto’s voice was solemn.
Airi looked up to see her lord. He was no longer smiling, as if he wasn't so sure of his actions were right and felt guilty for taking her innocence.
Airi cupped his face to cheer him up, "No regrets, I was asking for it, actually."
Lord Tsunamoto smiled, feeling relieved. He got up from the futon to get himself dressed.
But still, the question remained...
“So, what now, Milord?" Airi asked as she fixes her kimono, arranging it neatly on her body to cover the “love marks” born out of their tryst. It was a difficult chore due to her aching arms and legs. Not to mention that soft aching on her loins and the lingering pain in between her thighs had not yet fully healed. She could hardly walk properly at this state and she’s afraid the people outside will know what they had done last night. Will they gossip? Will the people from Oshu would get a word about it and criticize her?
"It’s not like we could undo what had happened yesterday,” Airi cautiously asked as she looked at Lord Tsunamoto’s direction. She wanted to prepare herself for what is to come.
Thinking of the way Lord Tsunamoto had taken her, Airi surmised that there is a high chance that she could become pregnant with his child. Her fate can go two ways: she either become his side consort, given her status, or she will remain as his secret mistress.
The first will, at least, give Airi and her would-be child some status since Lord Tsunamoto is an elite samurai of Oshu, but she would have to endure harsh criticisms from other people, compete with other women for her lord’s affection, perhaps suffer some mishaps orchestrated by Oshu’s enemies or by other jealous women.
The latter choice would be more difficult, Airi would have to keep her relationship with him from others a secret, perhaps even her pregnancy. If the rumors got out she’s sleeping with Lord Tsunamoto, her lord has the power to deny the claim at the moment of inconvenience. At the worst, she will become an outcast and a nobody, forever labeled as someone who tried to climb the social ladder by seducing her lord. Or, perhaps a loose woman who slept with unknown men and bore a child out of wedlock.
Both will definitely hurt Airi. She would hate the thought of sharing him with other women, and she would only suffer should Lord Tsunamoto decided to make their relationship a secret forever be apart despite working together.
Readying herself for whatever Lord Tsunamoto has to say. She froze with bated breath.
“You shall be my main wife, Airi.”
So when her lord spoke with certainty that Airi will be designated as his “main wife”, her jaws dropped.
“M-main wife? But, I am just a maid!” Airi spoke incredulously. Did I hear him right? She tried to hide her growing elation, just in case she heard him wrong.
“Didn’t you say that if you are to be my lover, I shouldn’t take another wife?” Lord Tsunamoto grinned in her direction. “So what if you are a maid, any bastard who says you are not a fitting spouse for me can all go to hell, but you are the only woman I truly cared.”
This time his face became solemn as he cupped Airi’s cheeks, his gaze blossoming with his determination. “For all my years, no woman but you had taken the time to watch over me. Anyone would have kept their distance, scared because of the scar in my eye, perhaps they hate my wild ways or my rakish smile, unlike you.”
His cheeks became colorful but he held onto his courage not to look away. “When you entered my castle, you treated me as a friend, not as the lord of the castle. Women constantly vie for my affection, but they always have an agenda in their mind. But you never treated me as if I’m different from the common people of Oshu. That is when I decided to slowly win your heart. ONLY you.”
Airi teared up as he said those words. Never did she expect Lord Tsunamoto to bare his feelings like this.
“That’s why...please marry me!”
Airi’s heart was so overwhelmed with emotion that she reached out to him and gave him a loving kiss so deep and passionate that she lost track of time. Savoring each second they spent embracing each other close.
“I accept!”
To Lord Tsunamoto, her answer was his best gift he ever had in his entire lifetime. For Airi, this is just the beginning of great things that will come into her life. But nobody except fate knows that she will soon become one of the women who will shake the world at war to its foundations.
"By the way," Airi finally said after looking at the messy state of their room "Please help me clean this mess, shall we? I could even smell the dry sake from the futon. Besides, my arms and legs felt sore..." She pouted as she smacked her fist to his chest, but then, she regretted her actions because the pain intensified even more, "You must take responsibility!”
"Ow! What was that for? Was that even necessary?" he winced in pain as he clutched the tender spot where Airi smacked him
“Ha! Big words from someone who slept me, and to think he even asked me to be his wife!" Airi laughed as she gave Lord Tsunamoto a knowing grin. She leaned closer to his ear and whispered, "If you help me, who knows, maybe we can celebrate again tonight.”
"Hahaha! You saucy little minx!" the man burst into laughter at the meaning of her words. Then, a smirk formed on his lips as his eyes darkened once again, "Why not now?"
Romance Under Wintry Sky
Fandom: Samurai Love Ballad Party
Characters: Oniniwa Tsunamoto x Original Female Character
Summary: He is a noble samurai, she is just a lowly maid. For all intents and purposes, she could only watch her lord from afar, serving him as his maid, not harboring any forms of desire for him..Knowing his character, he could easily marry a lot of beautiful ladies and frankly, she doesn’t want to be in that difficult situation where she had to share him...So, even if he is unmarried, even though she was secretly in love with him, she can only swallow her feelings inside.
Inspired from "A Date with Tsunamoto" a story from Grand Samurai Street Fair. NO SMUT.
Also posted on AO3.
PART 2: Tryst Under Wintry Sky [MATURE CONTENT!]
When Airi agreed to Lord Tsunamoto's idea of cuddling together inside the room as the cold wintry snow poured outside the inn, she hadn't expected him to embrace her so—fiercely, not that she expected him to pull her tight onto his warm body; hands on his chest, feeling his rapid rush of blood pumping. Nor she expected that her own quickening heartbeat would be so obvious to him and, to her utter embarrassment, shades of red became evident on her face.
"Haha. You're red to the tips of your ears you know." he chuckled as he lightly pinched both of her cheeks.
Airi gave him a fierce look to cover up her shame, Not funny. She wanted to say something; but knowing the position she's in, she inwardly felt joy even though her exterior is anything but comfortable with the arrangement.
He is a noble samurai, she is just a lowly maid. For all intents and purposes, she could only watch her lord from afar, serving him as his maid, not harboring any forms of desire for him. Well, she could become his concubine if he so wished, but the thought of possibly sharing him with his official wife or another concubine one day could only breed resentment within her heart. Knowing his character, he could easily marry a lot of beautiful ladies and frankly, Airi doesn’t want to be in that difficult situation where she had to share him. If there is anything, what Airi doesn't want to admit to Lord Tsunamoto right now, it's the fact she harbored desire for him for a long time and wished that he had only his eyes (or rather, his eye his left was scarred long ago) on her.
So, even if Lord Tsunamoto is unmarried, even though Airi was secretly in love with him, she can only swallow her feelings inside.
"I'm only joking. You can rest easy around me." the lord gave her a rakish grin as he stroked her hair.
A joke? Airi thought in horror.
"What? You were just teasing?" Airi said, indignation and hurt apparent in her words. I knew it, things between him and me, it won’t work! She tried to wriggle out of his grasp but he kept her so tight that her arms lost its strength to resist, "Ugh, I have no idea what to do with you, Lord Tsunamoto!" Of all the things Airi hated, even if its the man she had a crush on for a long time, being told that all his advances right now, and reminding her of the obvious signs how hopelessly she was in love…her one-sided love….
Telling her his advances right now is a joke. It was the worst thing he could possibly say. Which is why she hardened her face into a look of pout filled with frustration, regardless if the one on the receiving end was her superior.
"Sorry. Don't run away on me." he smiled but his voice was solemn as if regretted his earlier remarks. However, Airi continued to pout, trying to hide her hurt inside. She looked away from him to hide her reddened cheeks and shame. Does he have any idea what his actions do to me? Does he have any idea how I truly feel right now? I wish he knew.
"It's just that you're so cute when you blush. I couldn't help myself." he added ever so fondly as he gently cupped Airi's cheeks back in his way.
What? The meaning behind his was not lost on Airi. Could it be…
Nah, he could be teasing me again. I know how he’s like...
Airi closed her eyes and gently free herself from Lord Tsunamoto's grasp. On the outside, she seemed calm thanks to her years of experience being his maid as she put up with several noble women who also vie for his attention; but inside, her heart is raging like a storm: torn between her desire to embrace him even just for tonight and her duty to stay grounded.
"Hm. What's wrong?" he asked, his head leaned forward to see her clearly. Airi could see the scar on his left eye, and the soft brown on his right. It was filled with care despite him being so teasing. And for a moment, Airi doesn't know how to respond.
"You are constantly giving me the run-around, Lord Tsunamoto," she mumbled in a soft voice before she could put a stop to it. This isn't what she wanted to say, however, but because her frustration of holding back her feelings was so great, her subconscious controlled her.
"Am I?" the man gaped in surprise.
"N-no. It's not like that. I mean..." Airi lied, she had to or else Lord Tsunamoto might misunderstand her intentions. However, her voice pitched so high that it was evident to Lord Tsunamoto her poor attempts at covering it.
"Tell me, why do you think I am giving you the run-around?"
Airi could see Lord Tsunamoto's once gentle right eye turned darker, was it due to his irritation or something else? Airi wasn't sure.
But, right now, she couldn't hide her frustrations to him anymore.
"Remember that time I was almost blamed for putting poison on Lord Masamune's food? You defended me in front of all those retainers who couldn't wait to put me down." she began recounting her story and how her feelings of him grew.
That time, Lord Tsunamoto had to put a good word with Lord Masamune to let Airi stay in his castle to keep her from the accusing eyes of Date retainers. In the castle, he had constantly teased and flirted with her but she only laughed treated him as her master and a dear friend. She had believed she doesn’t deserve his affections and that there are better women than her.
But slowly, Airi had warmed up to him, serving him with all her heart in gratitude. Of course, Lord Tsunamoto was thankful for her efforts. And then, time passed, before Airi knew it, her fondness of Lord Tsunamoto grew into something that longs for his attention. She became accustomed to his teasing eventually but she knew she couldn’t go further for she is just a common maid and he is a noble samurai. He needed a wife that could further his cause, or Date’s cause. They live in harsh times where anyone can be a friend or foe, and marriage is a very strong tool to solidify an alliance.
What is worse, she also met several guests of high status, many of them were women who also had eyes for Lord Tsunamoto. They too made it difficult for Airi to tell her lord how she truly felt. They would constantly order her around while they spend time with her lord’s presence while she goes to the sidelines fulfilling the guests’ requests. Once, when a retainer complimented her cooking, one arrogant lady, who is part of a powerful merchant clan, shamed her awful desserts, though they were obviously delicious.
Unfortunately, the retainers have no choice but to agree with the lady, not wanting to offend her and her connections. She was going to be punished by the castle matron when Lord Tsunamoto tried Airi’s desserts and claimed to the wider public that he liked it. That incident changed the opinion of Airi by the castle occupants. For that, she was thankful. However, it also dawned upon her how little she is to the grander scheme of things and can only survive under Lord Tsunamoto’s good graces. Marrying him will not benefit him at all.
And so, she had remained as Lord Tsunamoto's maid bound by duty to serve, no feelings attached. That was supposed to be her cover, her facade.
Yet she couldn't deny her growing feelings for him for so long.
And then, an opportunity came, Lord Tsunamoto was tasked to go onto the village near the border to check on its security and other pertinent problems. Lord Tsunamoto brought Airi along. She had wanted to tell Lord Tsunamoto her feelings, away from the prying eyes of his retainers and of those women. If he would not return them, she would understand. She will let go of him without any resentments...but until then.
However, a heavy snowfall came. And their journey is cut short.
"So, now, we're stuck together here in this room. And then you made me cuddle you like we're lovers, and then you say its a joke?" Airi wiped off her tears and said the next words as though they are filled with sadness, “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have these feelings for you, Milord. I should have set these dreams aside.” Dreams of you looking out for me as I did and no one else. Airi shook her head, numbing her own feelings. It would seem her feelings won’t be reciprocated after all.
Lord Tsunamoto sat silently, his eye and mouth wide in surprise. And for a moment, there was only the howl of the wind outside, bitter coldness crept towards their room and Airi shivered from the coolness of the atmosphere. Was it the cold? Or was it fear?
At last, Airi couldn’t stand the silence any longer. She shifted away from him and--a hand caught hers. Before she could react, she was pulled towards Lord Tsunamoto’s embrace so strongly that the force made them collapse on the tatami mat they were sharing. After a moment of confusion, she found herself on top of him. Her kimono disheveled, slightly revealing her exposed chest to him. The hand that had been pulled was now at Lord Tsunamoto’s broad chest so that it’s resting on his heart. To her surprise, he could feel the fast and strong thumping of his heart. Airi felt her face reddened in shame, knowing the compromising situation she’s in.
“Get it now?” he asked. He wasn’t smiling, instead, he looked serious. For a moment, Airi couldn’t respond. What could she say? She just confessed her whole heart to him and she isn’t even sure if he would return it.
“I saved you that day because I know you were still too young to die just because of the backhand schemes of the enemy. When you arrived to the castle you made everything, from making good desserts and keeping my castle orderly, in gratitude of me...even if I don’t deserve it.” his voice was soft, without his usual teasing attitude.
Airi looked up. Gone was Lord Tsunamoto’s usual rakish grin, only to be replaced by pensieve solemnity: a sad look on his face. For the first time in a long while, Airi could see wrinkle lines boring onto his skin and an expression that know despite his seemingly youthful vigor, he had a lot of experiences to tell, and he is tired by some of it.
“When those women fawn over me, I knew they weren’t really attracted to me. Ha! The nerve…” he cracked a grin, but it was without any mirth. “These wenches were only after my position as Lord Masamune’s trusted retainer, nothing more. Some of them were actually planted by the enemy to spy on me, like that lady who said your desserts were awful.”
Airi was silent, but the revelation struck her hard. It wasn’t easy for her to keep he feelings to herself, but knowing Lord Tsunamoto NEVER looked at these women with any sort of liking? I should have known. If only I wasn’t so hung up with hiding my feelings...
“Then, I saw how your sunny smile faded in time. I missed your laughter, Airi. That’s why…” he trailed off and he let go of Airi’s body from his own, and he looked away as if trying to hide his expression from Airi due to shame. However, this time, Airi embraced Lord Tsunamoto, gently placing his head to her bosom.
The man looked up and saw Airi’s smile like sunflowers under the sun. It was a smile that tells unadulterated joy, the one Lord Tsunamoto saw a long time ago on this young maiden’s face. Memories of good times flooded him as his own happiness once again filled his heart.
“Thank you, Milord,” tears of laughter slowly fell from Airi’s eyes. Her lord gently touched her face and wiped her tears in reverence. To which Airi started to laugh.
“Aw, you laughed,” he smirked, hugging her closer.
“I’m sorry.” Airi said, welcoming his embrace, feeling the heat radiating from his body. “It’s more a relief than anything.” That you and I felt the same way she thought but didn’t voice it, she need not need to.
Lord Tsunamoto cupped her face. He is back to being his usual self, full of youthful vigor and charm Airi always loved. But then, shades of redness filled his face and from her position, she could feel his beating heart. Together cuddled close, the coolness of the air became nothing but a warm wind.
“Don’t go telling people that you’ve got me wrapped around your finger, young lady.” the man pouted, “I’d never live it down.”
“Then,” Airi smirked, “if I am to be your lover, let me tell you, I HATE sharing you with anyone. If you decide to tie yourself to another woman. I won’t be angry at you, but I’ll leave. Just so we’re clear.”
“Aw, my girl is a jealous-type, I see,” Lord Tsunamoto leaned closer to her ear and whispered her some words. “I like that.” his voice husky with desire that made Airi’s heart thump faster in anticipation.
This is what I always wanted. Him looking at me...and only me. On this house, under the cool snowy sky. I could never trade this precious time together with anything else.
Shattered Bonds
Fandom: Samurai Love Ballad Party
Character: Inuchiyo
Summary: His heartache came from the fact that he didn't ask for this upcoming war to happen; and yet, just because two of his most important persons decided one cannot live with another under the same sky, he found himself forced to choose sides and fight against his former friend.
Slightly based ON REAL HISTORY. How this young lord must have felt when he found HIMSELF on the other side of war against his close friend. One-shot (possibly out of many).
Also posted on my AO3.
Little pieces of white fell down from the blackened skies as the overcast clouds suppressed the dignified fortress atop a mountain. The wind blew its coldest as anxious servants within the stronghold struggle to make fire, soldiers rummaging through the stocks for extra blankets, and scouts braving the intense cold to look for signs of enemy ambush, or infiltration beyond its walls.
Or signs of invasion from their former allies.
At least, this is what the young lord of the castle (who is inside the war council room alone at the moment) wanted to think with regards to their "enemy"—a belief that is shared by the majority of his people. The lord may be young, but if there is any indication, the dark circles around his eyes suggest he had aged a lot from all the stress. A jar of sake was placed on the table, beside it were two cups: one for the man himself, the other was for the special somebody the man had all but lost thanks to this conflict. Filling the second cup was his usual habit whenever he and his friend would meet up for drinks in the past, and now, as an homage for his absent friend. It was meant to calm him, help him relax a little; obviously, it didn't work.
His heartache came from the fact that he didn't ask for this upcoming war to happen; and yet, just because two of his most important persons decided one cannot live with another under the same sky, he found himself forced to choose sides and fight against his former friend. If it were up to him, he would have stormed towards his dear partner on that fateful day, and beat the crap out of him for his crazy plan of following THEIR LATE LORD'S dream—and hope it will be just that. But no... his friend had coldly shrugged him off, as if his words are nothing and proceeded to leave without saying anything to him, he didn't even look at him in the eye! That usual smugness of his had always made the young lord's blood boil, but that day, he feared he had crossed the line, a point of no return.
So, now that the conflict has escalated, the young lord remembered that he had volunteered to lead the front and fight the good fight, hoping the prodigal himself will somehow turn back after a few defeats. Unfortunately, he got stonewalled by his superiors, given his ties to their supposed "traitor". There were no words just how angry he had been, angry at the people he and his departed friend were supposed to protect. Angry at his friend for not trusting HIM enough. Angry at himself for not knowing just how bad things had gone after their lord died on that tragic fire. Angry that he was forced to station at the rear by those scheming bastards who may or may not have designs for him and his clan. The bad memories only made the lord bit his lip and clench his sake cup hard until whites from his knuckles had formed.
It wasn't easy for the young lord to handle things at the rear, even though they were far from the actual fighting. A while ago, he had a fight with a vassal, whom he secretly knew as a spy from the old guards who had stonewalled him. Logistics had said that their supplies are barely enough to last for a month, a grave matter. The vassal in question had strongly suggested to scour nearby villages for food, water and heat by pillaging them. This was, of course, met with gasps and indignation from the young lord's loyalists but couldn't openly complain due to the vassal's backing.
Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on how one sees this incident), the young lord refused the vassal's advice and even reprimanded him without regard of the political ramifications. To say things became chaotic is an utter understatement and the lord was at wits end during the ordeal. In the end, the vassal and his army left, leaving the castle almost defenseless and short of manpower at the present.
Frustration and a lingering sense of fear loom over this lord's heart as he sat inside the room, alone, waiting for someone from the shadows. There are a lot of things in this man's mind, questioning his own capacity as a leader. Was he wrong to refuse that vassal? Was he right to separate his own army from his? Hard questions poured into his mind as lines between right and wrong blur in every passing moment.
And the fact that all the tension from the upcoming battle and worsening weather got him at this breaking point...it is terrifying how much more burden he could take, before everything else snaps; before he himself become a cold heartless monster, all because of this wretched war.
He gulped down his sake and closed his eyes to find himself some semblance of peace, some form of control over the looming rage within his heart. The hearthfire failed to ease his foul mood and the silence only serves as a reminder of how poor morale is at the moment.
The castle lord stood up, his family sigil evident from his blue-black silk kimono. He made his way to the armory, passing through the wintery cold of the outdoors, checking on his soldiers, pages and servants along the way.
Once alone in the armory, he made his way towards his ornate spear, gently touching as if trying to recall a happier memory in order to keep himself sane. Lost in his own thoughts, he recalled his past as a young boy learning to wield his weapon. The time when he was still naive from the hard truths of war.
One sunny day, he had once held a practice spear in the middle of a match. Cheers of encouragement and jeers by the audience had filled the air. Old war veterans on the sidelines had looked thoughtfully at him and his opponent, assessing their strengths.
Across him had been another boy whose hair was a soft brown. His eyes were like clear brown sugar candies. His height couldn't match his own and his practice katana had been too small, but despite the obvious disadvantage, his opponent had given him a familiar lopsided grin; as if he knew how to turn things into his favor.
A time when both boys began as rivals, before they became best of friends, who still (ironically) fight here and there due to some simple crazy differences.
Before they became great vassals of their lord and achieved great things in their own right...
Before they inevitably became enemies after their lord had died…
Once upon a time, before he became the head of his clan and lord of this fortress, he was a rebellious boy of a prestigious samurai clan named Inuchiyo, and his enemy was his former friend, a clever peasant boy named Tokichiro.
Summary:
He is a noble samurai, she is just a lowly maid. For all intents and purposes, she could only watch her lord from afar, serving him as his maid, not harboring any forms of desire for him..Knowing his character, he could easily marry a lot of beautiful ladies and frankly, she doesn’t want to be in that difficult situation where she had to share him...So, even if he is unmarried, even though she was secretly in love with him, she can only swallow her feelings inside.
Inspired from "A Date with Tsunamoto" a story from Grand Samurai Street Fair. NO SMUT.