Ken ga Kimi: Momoyo Tsuzuri Drama CD - Night 1-Kuroba Saneaki & Sagihara Sakyo (百夜綴りドラマCD 第一夜 「黒羽実彰・鷺原左京」)
This is a Ken ga Kimi Drama CD that I collected and translated from Bilibili. The translation may not be perfect, so I ask for your understanding. Please enjoy!
TRACK 1:
PART 1: MEMORIES AND BACKGROUND
Saneaki: The journey along the Tokaido... Where we escorted the fake princess, overcoming countless hardships to reach Sunpu Castle.
Sakyo: After fulfilling our duty as guards and returning to Edo, each of us began to drift back to our own separate paths.
Saneaki: As for me... on my journey toward the place where my life would end, I withdrew into a life of seclusion in a temporary mountain dwelling.
Sakyo: And I... I threw myself onto the bloody path of Shura to fulfill my desire for revenge.
Saneaki: However, occasionally, when memories come flooding back... Like fleeting bubbles, so gentle, and also so warm. It has left the contours of brilliant colors within my chest.
Sakyo: Even though this body is deep within its mission, suddenly, in a small corner of my heart, I find myself unbearably missing the days spent with everyone.
Saneaki: This is a story about one such day.
Sakyo: Come, let us recount, let us write this story together.
Saneaki: Before everything sinks into oblivion...
PART 2: MEETING AT THE FESTIVAL
(Noise and bustle of the festival)
Sakyo: So tonight is the festival. Even though the sun has set, the stream of people is still endless like this.
Saneaki: That silhouette... Could it be, Sagihara-dono?
Saneaki: It is indeed Sagihara-dono.
Sakyo: Kuroba-dono... I did not expect to meet you amidst a sea of people like this.
Saneaki: I also did not expect to run into the two of you here.
Sakyo: "Two of us"? (Sakyo sees Kayo )
Sakyo: Ah... You have come to the festival as well? Thanks to your blessings, I remain safe and sound. It is wonderful to see both Kuroba-dono and yourself looking so healthy.
Saneaki: It is quite a coincidence.
Sakyo: Yes, truly. Though, while it is expected for you since you live in the castle town, it is surprising that Kuroba-dono would come to a place like this. Are you here to admire the festival?
Saneaki: No, I came to buy daily necessities. I overheard they were sold at the festival market, so I took the opportunity to stop by.
Sakyo: I see. Even so, it is surprising. I thought you would not care for such noisy and bustling places.
Saneaki: In any case, if I must go into town, I thought coming today would draw less attention than during the day. However... there are more people than I imagined; it makes me feel a bit dizzy. You are one to talk; I thought you did not care for crowded places either?
Sakyo: As for me... I merely wanted to catch some night breeze. And what about you? Here to admire the festival?
Sakyo: Ah, I see. You were lured by the festival music on your way back from errands. However, wandering aimlessly alone like this is a bit dangerous.
Sakyo: Lately, kidnappings has been rampant in places where people come and go. Rumor has it that many young, beautiful women have vanished without a trace.
Saneaki: How turbulent. I had no idea such things were happening in the town. Leaving me aside, did even you not know? If you run a business, surely you must hear many rumors in town.
Sakyo: Regarding that... it seems the authorities have not yet made a public announcement.
Saneaki: So it is... Either they are intentionally letting the line run loose to catch the whole catch, or the authorities are completely unaware. Whichever the case, it is not peaceful at all.
Saneaki: Still, you are quite skilled at gathering such rumors.
Sakyo: I merely happened to overhear it. (Turns to the girl) Ah... please do not look so frightened. I apologize for bringing up such an unpleasant topic. I just saw you walking alone and got worried, so I spoke out of turn. But, it is a rare festival. Just going straight home would be too dull. If you do not mind, would you like to look around the festival with us?
Sakyo: Ah, please allow me to escort you. What do you think, Kuroba-dono?
Saneaki: Me...? Hmm. That is right. As Sagihara-dono said, this is a rare festival night. If we are with you, you can enjoy it with peace of mind.
Saneaki: Well then, let us go look around. Do not stay out too late, or your family will worry.
Sakyo: Yes. Where should we start looking?
(Footsteps - Sakyo's inner monologue) Sakyo (Thoughts): (Voice colder) Kidnappings usually involve the Oni race. If she has company and we probe a little, they will be wary and find it hard to act openly. I just need to catch their tail.
Saneaki: Have you bought what you needed?
(Rustling sound of retrieving items)
Saneaki: This is... a very beautiful sash clip.
Sakyo: It suits your outfit today very well.
Sakyo: Ah, look there. There is a magnificent festival float over there.
Sakyo: Yes, one cannot take their eyes off it.
Saneaki: Floats are vessels for the gods to inhabit during the festival. People pour their hearts into decorating them so lavishly to please the gods; that is why it is so magnificent.
Saneaki: Ah, correct. If the vessel is that beautiful, surely the gods will be very pleased. Let us go a bit closer to see.
(Saneaki's inner monologue) Saneaki (Thoughts): Her eyes are sparkling so much... Normally, to prevent any mishaps, I should take her straight home immediately. But... seeing that bright, happy smile of hers, I cannot bear to rush her. If I can help her enjoy this happy time a little longer, how good that would be.
(Sound of percussion instruments, noise)
Saneaki: However... Edo is a lively place, but I did not expect it to be crowded to this extent.
Sakyo: It is a festival, after all; young and old alike gather here. Oh... What is the matter? Why did you stop? Hm? That is...
Saneaki: A tent next to the shrine grounds? It seems quite a few people are gathering there.
Sakyo: Shall we try getting closer?
Saneaki: Is this... a show tent? Or a troupe with exotic beasts?
Sakyo: It seems so. Ah, please look. There is a bird with beautiful plumage over there.
Saneaki: That is a foreign bird. I did not expect to see one in Edo.
Saneaki: (To the girl) With your modest height, it must be hard to see from here.
Sakyo: Take another half-step, move closer to me here.
Saneaki: Be careful not to get your feet stepped on.
(Bird call, sound of wings flapping)
Sakyo: Ah, the bird is spreading its wings... How beautiful.
Saneaki: The colorful patterns revealed when it spreads its wings are its defining feature.
Sakyo: The wings have closed.
Saneaki: It was only for a fleeting moment, wasn't it.
Saneaki: Did you only catch a glimpse? I see. That is good then.
Sakyo: We cannot help it since it is a bird, but this "ending before you can see it clearly" feeling makes me restless. Hm? That tent... it seems there is still space inside. There is a sign there...
Saneaki: From this point on, it seems we must pay. Hey, shopkeeper, what exactly is inside that tent?
Sakyo: "Enter and you shall know," is it... I see. The bird earlier was just an opening act to lure customers.
Sakyo: Hmm... What shall we do? Since we are here, shall we all go inside and take a look?
Saneaki: We do not know what is inside; will it be alright?
Sakyo: It is fine, it is just festival entertainment. Besides, inside the tent, it will be easier for her to see than squeezing out here.
Saneaki: That is true. If you say so...
Sakyo: What do you think?
Sakyo: (Laughs) Well then, let us go.
TRACK 2:
(Sound of a door opening, the three of them enter)
Saneaki: It is truly pitch dark in here. I wonder what kind of rare treasure is waiting for us to admire?
Saneaki: Yes... It seems there are no other guests besides us. The owner of this hut did say he arranged it so guests would not encounter each other inside.
Sakyo: (Thinking) This... when I think about it, seems highly suspicious. Making a grand display outside to invite people in, only to lure guests into this narrow, dark place—isn't this a fraudulent trick? If that is the case... getting separated now would likely bode ill.
Saneaki: Pardon me. My arm accidentally bumped into you.
Saneaki: No, it is not your fault. In this dim light, stumbling is only to be expected. Let us both watch our step as we walk.
Sakyo: Please wait a moment. In darkness like this, it would be dangerous if you were to trip and get hurt. Pardon me...
(Sakyo takes Kayo's hand)
Sakyo: Let us hold hands like this. Please take Kuroba-dono's hand with your other one.
Sakyo: Wouldn't it be more reassuring if the two of us guarded you on the left and right?
Saneaki: That... is indeed true. (Takes Kayo's hand) We cannot let you get hurt.
Sakyo: Oh my, that will not do, Kuroba-dono. Leaving such a distance between you and her... You should move closer.
Saneaki: C-Closer, you say?
Sakyo: It is so dark; who knows what might be lurking?
Saneaki: But... is it necessary to be on guard to that extent...
Sakyo: What are you hesitating for? Is it not for her safety?
Saneaki: U-Understood... (Footsteps shuffling closer) Is... this distance alright?
Sakyo: Yes, very good. Then let us continue. You as well, please hold our hands tightly.
(The three of them walk close together)
Sakyo: Walking this close together, even if demons or monsters have any schemes, they will not dare to act rashly.
Saneaki: T-This... is it not difficult to walk? If you are fine with it, then it is good, but... It is too dark; I cannot see anything around us. If they want to show us something, there should be at least a little light.
Sakyo: Indeed. A tattered hut meant as a temporary shelter, with only this faint, flickering light—it truly makes one uneasy.
(A strange noise is heard)
Saneaki: Is someone there?
(The noise shifts direction)
Sakyo: This time it is from the opposite direction.
Saneaki: The sound seems to be surrounding us... Just who is it? What is their objective?
Sakyo: Could it be... right there! (Draws his sword)
Saneaki: Wait, Sagihara-dono! What are you doing? Drawing a sword in this cramped space is very dangerous!
Sakyo: Kuroba-dono, this dark hut, this display of unknown origin... Could it be a ploy by the kidnappers?
Saneaki: I... cannot rule out that possibility. But no matter what, we cannot let her suffer even a single scratch.
Saneaki: Do not leave our side. Do not worry, I will definitely protect you.
Sakyo: I will not let anything touch even a finger of yours.
(Sound of mechanical gears and monstrous noises)
Saneaki: It seems to be a Karakuri mechanism made to look like a monster to scare people.
Sakyo: What? ...Sigh. So it is just a spook show hut to collect ticket fees?
Saneaki: Ah. In a different sense, it truly sends a chill down one's spine.
Sakyo: Yes, honestly... (Lowers voice, emphasizes each word) I thought it was kidnappers... How absurd.
Saneaki: What is the matter? Even though it is fake, you seem frightened?
Sakyo: Then let us get out of here quickly.
Sakyo & Saneaki (In unison): Watch out!
Saneaki: Are you alright? It is only natural to be scared. It seems mechanisms are installed everywhere... Are you trembling? That... If you are scared, there is no need to hurry. Let us stand like this until you calm down. If you feel uncomfortable, you may let go of my hand...
Saneaki: Ah... I see. (Realizes she is holding tighter)
Sakyo: Feeling human warmth makes one feel more reassured, doesn't it? Well then, this hand as well...
Sakyo: If kept warm in the palm of a hand like this, cold fingers will soon warm up again.
Saneaki: There is nothing to be ashamed of. Feeling reassured by human warmth... that is proof that you were raised with love.
Sakyo: And now, we are right here beside you. Please lean on us freely.
(Kayo gradually calms down)
Saneaki: You have finally stopped trembling. Can you walk?
Sakyo: If you are scared, do not force yourself; we can stand here a little longer.
Saneaki: There is no need to worry about us. Well then, let us slowly move forward.
(Footsteps, a strange, high-pitched screeching sound rings out)
Sakyo: (Chuckles softly) Are you alright? Your complexion looks... not very good. Shall we rest here a bit before moving on? Fortunately, there is not a soul around...
Saneaki: Hmph... We were tricked by the owner of this hut. I did not expect traps and scares like this inside.
Sakyo: We were convinced we would see rare and strange things... Perhaps that very misconception was part of his calculation.
Sakyo: (Whispering, voice tense) I thought thieves were lurking... How misleading.
Sakyo: Ah, no... In any case, it is fortunate that I could enjoy this time with the two of you. Let us consider it a good thing. Especially... seeing Kuroba-dono's flustered state; that is not something one sees every day.
Saneaki: N-Not really... What flustered...
Sakyo: That clumsy manner of yours when you caught her in the dark just now. If Enishi-dono were here to witness it, surely he would make a huge fuss about it.
Saneaki: Stop it. Just imagining it gives me a headache.
Sakyo: By the way, the crowd has thinned out. Perhaps it is time to take her home...
Sakyo: Huh? Her silhouette... I c-cannot see it anywhere! Where on earth did she go?
Saneaki: Just a moment ago, she was still right here...
(Sakyo picks up an object from the ground)
Saneaki: That is... the sash clip (Obidome) she just bought at the stall earlier? Surely... she had tucked it away very carefully in her sleeve...
Sakyo: Yes, there is no mistake. I am so worried... Let us split up and find her immediately!
Saneaki: Agreed. Then in half an hour... Let us meet at that pine tree.
(Both rush off to search)
(The dawn begins to break)
Saneaki: Well then, we shall go scout for her whereabouts one more time. Please leave the matter of her safety to us.
Sakyo: Suzukake, thank you for responding to our sudden summons and helping us without hesitation; it has truly been a great help. Please take good care of her father.
Saneaki: This is perhaps the first time I have stepped through the doorway of the teahouse with such a heavy and tormented heart.
Sakyo: Yes... Until dawn broke, I still held onto a fragile hope that she merely got lost in the crowd. However, morning has arrived, and she has not returned... I tried my best not to worry her father, but his falling ill was unavoidable. When one's beloved daughter vanishes without a trace, how can a father's heart not ache?
Saneaki: Fortunately, her father is being cared for by Suzukake. Though we know his condition is not critical, seeing him in such a state made my heart tighten. Perhaps returning to the teahouse now was a bit hasty. I should have searched the surrounding area more thoroughly.
Sakyo: Not at all. I have scoured even the dangerous riverbanks and thickets countless times, but there was absolutely no sign of her. I feared she might have slipped and fallen, but the magistrate's office has no reports of such accidents. If that is the case...
Saneaki: Yes, though I do not wish to think about it, but...
Saneaki: (Holding the evidence) This sash clip (Obidome) that Sagihara-dono found... Last night, she tucked it into her sleeve after purchasing it. However, given its size, it is unlikely for an object deep inside a sleeve to fall out accidentally.
Sakyo: Which means... she intentionally dropped it to leave a sign for us? If so...
Saneaki: There is only one reason for her disappearance. It is precisely that rumor... Kidnapping.
Sakyo: Just as expected... so that is how it turned out.
Sakyo: (Voice suppressing anger) I have heard stories of young women being kidnapped, but when it happens to someone so close, my blood boils. If this is a prank by the Oni race... then if it were me, I would absolutely never forgive them.
Saneaki: It is shameful. We were right beside her, yet we let this happen under our very noses. However, standing here lamenting will not save her. So, what shall we do now?
Sakyo: It seems we cannot rely on the magistrate's office. Given their attitude earlier, they did not seem to care in the slightest about our plea for help, only wanting to shoo us away to be done with it.
Saneaki: Then we must track them down ourselves. Sagihara-dono, what do you intend to do?
Sakyo: Naturally, I will go as well.
Saneaki: I see. Having you as a companion makes me feel more reassured. However, searching aimlessly like last night will only lead us down the same path.
Sakyo: Since they are young girls, they will undoubtedly try to sell them somewhere. However, frequent small transactions would easily attract attention. I fear they will gather enough people before selling them all at once.
Saneaki: At this hour... she must be imprisoned somewhere hidden from public view...
Saneaki: If we can just pinpoint that location... Wait...
Both: Perhaps there is still a way...
Saneaki: Sagihara-dono, have you also thought of a plan?
Sakyo: Seeing that expression, it seems Kuroba-dono has as well? It is fortunate that we both have a lead to track them down.
Saneaki: Whether it is fortunate or not remains to be seen. But we can certainly infiltrate the enemy's lair.
Sakyo: In that case, tonight, let us take action immediately.
Scene: Kuroba Saneaki (Setting: Noisy Red Light District/Brothel)
Saneaki: (Monologue) I never thought the day would come when I would have to set foot in this flower district (Hanamachi) again. However, behind the facade of these gaudy shops, underground dealings frequently take place.
They would not be foolish enough to sell a kidnapped girl right here in Edo. Doing so would be like announcing their crime; their tracks would be exposed immediately. They are certainly planning to escape Edo. Moreover, if they want to transport many girls over a long distance at once, it is highly likely they will need to hire extra bodyguards from the underworld.
If I disguise myself as a bodyguard and find a way to infiltrate their ranks... Hmph... Ironically, the experience of someone who once lived by the sword as a manslayer (Demon) has now become useful.
But... if it is to save her... then it matters not.
Sakyo: (Monologue) However, bodyguards for human traffickers cannot be found at ordinary employment agencies. Connections within the underworld are certainly required. That Kuroba-dono is familiar with such dark dealings... is truly a bit surprising to me.
Well, that is not something I should pry into. I must also fulfill my own duty.
If their hunting targets are only young maidens, then I shall "beat them at their own game" and play along. Luring those villains out into the open is as easy as turning over my hand. If I did not possess such skill, how could I have tracked the Oni race all this time?
I will definitely... find you. No matter what means I must use.
(Scene Change) [Context: Saneaki disguises as a guard pushing Sakyo (disguised as a woman) into a cell]
Saneaki (Disguised voice): Get in, quickly!
Sakyo (Female voice): I beg of you! Please... let me go home!
Saneaki (Disguised voice): Shut up! Get inside! (Shoves hard)
Sakyo (Female voice): Ah! (Sound of falling onto the dirt floor)
Saneaki (Disguised voice): Tonight, you lot will be leaving Edo. Until the carriage is ready, you'd better sit still in here! (Sound of iron door slamming shut. Saneaki's footsteps fading away)
(Silence. Sound of Kayo's footsteps rushing over to help - Sakyo stands up, dusting himself off)
Sakyo: Ah, yes... I am fine, I just slipped a little. Truly... (Normal voice) you are always so gentle.
Sakyo: It is I, Sagihara Sakyo. Shh... keep it quiet. I thought it would be better to let the villains guide me here themselves, so I disguised myself as a woman and waited in the city. Yes, things went smoother than I expected, which surprised even me.
Sakyo: This appearance of mine... does it look very strange? (Chuckles softly) To be praised by you is truly an honor.
Sakyo: Wait a moment... are you injured anywhere? (Sakyo moves closer) Do not say "I am fine" when clearly something is wrong. Do not push yourself so hard.
Sakyo: (Takes her hand) Your fingertips are ice cold... And you have scraped your skin and are bleeding... Being dragged to this place by those rough men, you must have been so terrified...
Sakyo: You say such pitiful things... To have you place your full trust in me brings me indescribable joy.
Sakyo: However... look. (Lifts her hand) Your hand is trembling.
(Sakyo pulls her into a tight embrace)
Sakyo: Surely the thread of tension you held onto... has finally snapped, hasn't it? You have tried very hard up until now.
Sakyo: But... You do not need to force yourself to be strong anymore. Come... relax your body... Let yourself be at ease.
Sakyo: Do not apologize; you are not causing me any trouble at all. Having suppressed such terrible fear for so long, trembling now is only natural. There is no need to hold it back; just let your body be weak for a moment.
Sakyo: Moreover... If being in my arms makes you feel safe, then nothing would make me happier.
Sakyo: (Giggles) Truly... you are too adorable. Just a moment ago looking up at me full of worry and fragility, and now you are shy and embarrassed like that.
Sakyo: No, I would not dare tease you. Right now, holding you in my arms like this... I truly cherish it deeply.
(Sakyo loosens his embrace to look at her)
Sakyo: It seems you have calmed down. Well then, listen to me, just stay put. When the time is right, I will lead you and the other girls here to escape together. I have calculated every part of the plan, so please be at ease.
Sakyo: I will be fine. Though there are a few guards outside, tonight is shipment night, so people coming and going are more chaotic than usual. There will surely be an opening for us to escape. Come, trust in me once more.
Sakyo: Thank you. However, the enemy has hired bodyguards. In a worst-case scenario, we may have to confront them directly.
(Soft clattering sound - Sakyo sees an object on the ground)
Sakyo: That stick... Imprisoned in this situation, yet you still keenly noticed that weapon? Now that you mention it... you practice the Naginata, don't you. Truly very brave. But, absolutely do not do anything reckless.
Sakyo: Alright. Then let us begin preparations immediately.
(Sound of hurried footsteps running)
Sakyo: It is safe now. Come, let us seize this opportunity to escape quickly.
Sakyo: Guided by the Morning Star faintly appearing in the eastern sky, let us proceed through this small forest.
Sakyo: Oh... You over there, what is the matter? Your leg...?
Sakyo: I see. It seems you have twisted your ankle. I will administer first aid to this person. You, please lead the others and run ahead.
Sakyo: Rest assured. I have asked Kei-dono to wait at the outskirts of Edo at dawn. Yes. Therefore, once you descend this mountain, you will be safe. If we are discovered here, everything will be ruined. I will catch up shortly; go quickly!
(Sound of Heroine and the group of women running away)
(Scene: Kuroba Saneaki and the misunderstood encounter)
Saneaki: Wait. Where are you going?
Saneaki: Attempting to escape with only women and girls... that is quite bold. However... it seems one is missing?
(Sound of Heroine pointing a tree branch at Saneaki)
Saneaki: (Surprised, whispers softly) My... I did not expect to have a weapon pointed at me like this. Do you not recognize who I am?
(Silence - Saneaki realizes she is too panicked and determined to protect others to recognize him)
Saneaki: I see. You intend to use yourself as a decoy so the others can escape. Truly a reckless and thoughtless action.
Saneaki: Very well. I shall spare the lives of the others.
Saneaki: Come. Now then... one on one.
Saneaki: Do you intend to face a real sword using a rotten stick that couldn't cut anything as a Naginata?
Saneaki: A sword is something that takes life easily. It is not something that one with half-hearted resolve can face.
(Kayo lunges to attack. Sound of collision)
Saneaki: (Exhales sharply) I did not expect you to actually charge.
Saneaki: Your movement was quite good. But...
(Sound of Saneaki knocking away her weapon, restraining her)
Saneaki: Do you understand now? It is regrettable, but with that meager skill, your head would have already fallen to the ground.
Saneaki: Therefore... Please, do not do such dangerous things anymore.
Saneaki: (Voice returns to normal, warm and deep) Yes, it is me. It is Kuroba.
(Saneaki catches and holds her)
Saneaki: Are you alright?
Saneaki: I apologize. It seems I have frightened you.
Saneaki: Since I did not see Sagihara-dono anywhere, I assumed something unfortunate had happened, so I remained on guard, pretending to be a watchman.
Saneaki: I never expected... you would bravely turn back to attack me. I caused you to misunderstand; I apologize.
Saneaki: It is fine now. No one will threaten you anymore. Come... please be at ease.
Saneaki: But... What would have happened if the person just now was not me?
Saneaki: Just now... if you had truly had to fight real bandits... Just thinking about it...
Saneaki: Not only that. When I lost you in the crowd at the festival... I thought my heart would shatter.
Saneaki: You are safe and sound... that is truly wonderful.
Saneaki: No, it is fine. The one who should apologize is me.
Saneaki: If you ever have to use these hands to wield a weapon... then please, call for help.
Saneaki: When you are in danger, no matter what happens, I will come running.
Saneaki: I swear, I will never let you face something like this a second time.
(Saneaki notices her hair is messy, reaches out to stroke it gently)
Saneaki: Ah... your hair is messy. It is sticking to your cheek.
Saneaki: Your beautiful hair... is tangled to this extent.
Saneaki: A young maiden in the prime of her youth having to face such a situation... you must have felt very lonely and scared.
Saneaki: Alright. This is better.
Saneaki: Hm? What is it? I feel like your cheeks are turning red?
Saneaki: If that is the case, then good. But... please do not push yourself or endure it alone.
Sakyo: Are both of you... unharmed?
Sakyo: So we have regrouped. My apologies. I had to give first aid to the person over here, so I was a bit delayed.
Saneaki: I see. I did not see you; it turns out that was the reason. Now I understand.
Saneaki: However... Regarding my infiltration as a bodyguard, did you not tell her?
Sakyo: I thought the two of you would recognize each other. Did something offensive happen?
Saneaki: No... It is fine. (Saneaki evades the topic because he doesn't want to recount being attacked by her)
(Kayo looks surprised and puzzled)
Sakyo: Yes. I disguised myself as a woman to infiltrate and lead the way. And Kuroba-dono acted as a bodyguard to watch for the right moment and secure an escape route.
Sakyo: We should have just handed it over to the magistrate, but...
Saneaki: There were suspicious movements within the magistrate's office; they could not be trusted. That is why I asked for Kei-dono's private cooperation.
Saneaki: Indeed, it seems our premonition was correct. Judging by the tone of the bodyguards (bandits), it appears there is a mole hiding within the Magistrate's Office.
Saneaki: Yes. Moreover... There is even a Daimyo backing this conspiracy.
Sakyo: I see. No wonder these kidnappings were not leaked to the public.
Sakyo: However, with this incident, everything will be brought to light. The plan succeeding beautifully is what matters most.
Sakyo: (Teasing) Actually... I had also considered a plan where both of us would disguise ourselves as women, but...
Saneaki: (Interrupting) Sagihara-dono!
Sakyo: Just like that reaction, Kuroba-dono vehemently opposed it.
Saneaki: With my appearance, I would stand out far too much.
Sakyo: (Chuckles softly) I think you would sell for a very high price... surely you would be very popular.
Saneaki: Please let that story end here. Furthermore, precisely because I infiltrated via a different route, I was able to bring your sword like this.
Sakyo: Yes, that is very helpful. I cannot be apart from Hotarumaru even for a moment.
Sakyo: Come, let us hurry down the mountain.
(Screams echo from the distance)
Saneaki: Is it the group of women I released earlier?
Sakyo: Let us go, quickly!
(The group runs hurriedly)
Sakyo: Kuroba-dono, how many remnants are left?
Saneaki: Counting the lackeys, about five.
Sakyo: What is the skill level of the bodyguards?
Saneaki: For us, it is no issue.
Sakyo: Please stay back with the other maidens. We will go ahead to repel the bodyguards.
Sakyo: We will not let them lay even a finger on you ladies.
Sakyo: I see them. Over there!
Saneaki: Including the mastermind... everyone is present. How convenient.
Sakyo: But, it seems you gentlemen are extremely angry?
(Enemy yells: "Traitors!")
Saneaki: Calling us traitors, how unpleasant to hear.
(Saneaki parries an attack)
Saneaki: Provocation is useless. In this place, I have no intention of drawing my sword.
(Saneaki knocks down an enemy)
Saneaki: Your crimes... shall be judged not by my sword, but by the Magistrate's Office.
Sakyo: Stand right there.
Sakyo: Do you think you can escape? Abandon that shallow thought immediately.
Sakyo: Besides... I am not as gentle as Kuroba-dono. (Unsheathes sword)
Sakyo: (Voice cold) What a pity, I do not carry compassion for villains on my person.
Sakyo: Come, do not stand on ceremony, just charge at me. I will not kill you immediately. I will make you vomit out everything you know.
(Sakyo attacks. Sounds of chaotic combat)
Saneaki: Ladies, stay back!
Saneaki: (Surprised) You... intend to be the vanguard and lead everyone alone?
Saneaki: However... (Saneaki starts to stop her but realizes her determination)
Saneaki: Very well. I believe in you.
Saneaki: Hurry, go down the mountain. Once you reach the foot of the mountain, the officers will assist you.
(Saneaki blocks an attack to let her run)
Saneaki: (Calling after her) I pray for your safety.
Saneaki: I pray to the Lord... Please, ye gods (kamisama)... protect her.
(Slashing sound - Sakyo overwhelms the enemy)
Sakyo: Hmph... Who wishes to step up next to test their skills?
(Slashing sound - Saneaki strikes without mercy)
Sakyo: Who said that if you surrendered, I would let you go?
Sakyo: There is no need to be so frightened. Until you confess the entire sequence of events in detail, I will not kill you.
Sakyo: First of all... Let me see what is under that hood!
(Sakyo knocks off the leader's hood)
Sakyo: (Surprised) This man... Is he not an Oni?
Saneaki: Sagihara-dono, that is enough. You have already cut the tendons in his legs; he cannot move as he pleases anymore.
Saneaki: That face is... The Doshin (low-ranking constable) I saw at the Magistrate's Office.
(Saneaki sighs in disappointment at the official's corruption)
Saneaki: Hmph. It is true I was hired as a bodyguard, but unfortunately... I do not need money.
Saneaki: That invitation, I have no interest in.
Saneaki: It would be better for you to keep your mouth shut, for the sake of your own safety.
(A clear flute sound rings out – The safety signal)
Saneaki: This flute sound... It is Kei-dono's signal.
Saneaki: It seems the maidens have arrived safely.
Sakyo: That was fast. It is thanks to her taking on the role of guide.
Saneaki: In a situation where her limbs were trembling with fear... Truly a brave young woman.
Sakyo: Yes. We intended to save people, but it feels as though... we are the ones who were saved.
Saneaki: Ah... That is indeed true.
(Sound of the night breeze blowing gently, mingling with the sounds of the festival)
Sakyo: So, the "Kadoakashi" bandits have been completely ensnared, have they not?
Saneaki: Yes. Thanks to the raid the other day, the matter has reached the higher-ups. I hear that the testimonies provided by you and the kidnapped maidens became the most crucial clues in solving the case.
Sakyo: (Chuckles softly) Haha, truly a magnificent achievement.
Saneaki: Now that the internal details are clear, the nobleman pulling the strings behind this will undoubtedly face appropriate punishment soon.
Sakyo: Then, we can consider the matter settled.
Sakyo: (Lowers voice, muttering) Although I found no clues regarding the "Oni" from them... for now, let us simply rejoice in your safety. However... next time, I will definitely...
Sakyo: Ah... no, it is nothing. Please do not mind me. More importantly, is your father doing well?
Sakyo: That is wonderful to hear.
Saneaki: There is no need for such formality. We do not require your gratitude.
Sakyo: Indeed. I am the one who does not know how to sufficiently apologize to your father. After all, I allowed a precious young lady like yourself to step into such danger.
Sakyo: Oh? You wish to invite us to your eatery? Right now?
Saneaki: To be treated to your Soba... I wonder if that would serve as a fitting apology?
Sakyo: Troublesome? Not at all. That is truly a most tempting invitation; it would be a waste to decline.
Saneaki: If it would please you and your father, then... I shall humbly accept.
Sakyo: Yes, let us decide on that. Now, please give me your hand.
(Sakyo gently takes her hand)
Sakyo: So as not to repeat the mistake of the other day, please hold my hand tightly. One never knows when something might happen... Come, give me your hand.
Saneaki: In that case, please allow me to hold your other hand.
(Saneaki takes her other hand; Kayo stands nestled between the two of them)
Saneaki: So that I never lose sight of you again... Even if you tremble with fear, or stumble in your steps, I swear I will never let go. I will definitely protect you.
Sakyo: Now we can be at ease.
(Kayo lowers her face in embarrassment)
Sakyo: Oh my, what is the matter? Your cheeks... no, even the tips of your ears have turned bright red.
Saneaki: If you are feeling unwell, I do not mind carrying you on my back.
Sakyo: Haha, then let us not stand here chatting any longer. Before your father worries even more, we should get going, shouldn't we?
Saneaki: Mm, quite right. Let us go.
-END-
Sakyo is so gorgeous! OMG!!!
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