Some fun facts about my Ikesen OCs because I’m too lazy to draw them but I miss them (˶>⩊<˶)
Ellara
-She was taught to swim by being thrown in a lake
-She likes to wear kimonos because it makes her feel normal
-her signature fighting move is a spin hook kick to the jaw
-She says “y’know” a lot
-She’s naturally strong, and forgets this when she hugs people
-She used to wish for straight hair
Yua
-She was never supposed to be with Yukimura. The Takeda-Uesugi alliance brought them together, thanks to Sasuke saving Kenshin
-While she can be naive, she’s educated and aware of the politics of the Sengoku era
-She can cook
-She looks like angry jigglypuff when she’s mad
-Since she was kept inside for most of her life, she gets very excited and is fascinated by seeing everything new outside the castle. She loves to walk around and investigate Echigo, even if it’s just to look at the shops
Tsumeko
-She would marry quicker compared to everyone else, as a demand form her clan
-She only gets along with one sister amongst her 12 who doesn’t hate her
-She is GREAT at card or strategy games
-She’s been a target of attempted assassinations since childhood
-While she’s usually composed, she’s rather playful and loves when people can play along and tease each other
-she’s allergic to a food, which nobody knows about
Rumi
-She grew up in the foster system and remains an orphan
-She learned how to play guitar after being cared for by musicians
-she started getting into making clothes when she once saw a girl crying in the orphanage upset that her doll’s dress ripped
-she became friends with Sasuke after he helped her solve a math problem for a university class
-She misses her car
-her bad luck is almost comical
-she has social media dedicated to help her designs reach audiences
AN: Ieyasu got his ass kicked here, sorry despite you being my top 3 favs
After a quick speech from Yoshiteru, the army set out into battle after refusing the alliance’s plea. The scorching heat from the summer was no more, instead replaced with a cold breeze.
Both sides were alert and did not underestimate each other as they set out to strategize on how to defeat each other.
“Amari,” Kanbei brought back her attention from her mind.
“What?”
“You and your group will be separate from the main army when we get here,” Kanbei pointed at a section of the map. “You will deal with the God of War and make sure he doesn’t reach the Oda.”
“...very well,” Amari did not argue as she does not question Kanbei’s talents in the slightest.
“I suppose I will make sure our princess doesn’t escape,” Rikyu smiled knowing that he won’t have a major role in this battle unlike his comrades.
“You’re spot on,” Kanbei smiled.
Mai could only stay in her tent as she was guarded, knowing she was being used for this war of theirs. All she could do was pray that her friends didn't die.
On the alliance side, Mitsunari and Kanetsugu gave out strategies which their lords accepted. With some of the Oda, Imagawa, Uesugi-Takeda, and Ikko-Ikki placing some of their troops with each other units.
The sun was high in the sky, with both of them clashing with each other. Neither was giving ground. Kenshin was not alone leading his men, Kanetsugu and two warlords from the Oda much to one dismay.
“Mitsunari, you sure you want to go to the front with that manic?” Ieyasu looked at him.
“I can’t help but feel like something is wrong, Lord Ieyasu. As if–”
A sound. A sound that was so out of place on the battlefield made everyone freeze, trying to find the source of that sound – only for that sound to become a voice. Singing. Which made the four warlords be on high alert after rumors suggest the presence of the Moonlit Mirage by singing.
“We are built to overcome endless mishaps.”
“Where is it coming from?” Kanetsugu scanned his area as best as he could only to hear several shots fired.
BANG
“Augh!”
“W-we…”
It was so sudden and fast that Kanetsugu used the sounds from the shots to pin where they were at. “To our left, Lord Kenshin.”
Kenshin saw it with the clouds coming from the matchlocks. The riders quickly disperse after their location was spotted, leading the second group to appear. “Let’s see if they live up to their name,” Kenshin quickly charged at them.
…
Mitsunari and Ieyasu’s armies were engaged by a small group that proved to be fierce. All of them were using guerilla warfare till their groundmen came at them with their spears and swords.
“They are the Moonlit Mirage, Lord Ieyasu!” Mitsunari quickly got some of the members out of his way before helping Ieyasu.
“They aren’t novices, that’s for certain,” even Ieyasu was having a hard time fighting against the cloaked figures.
Blocking while dodging incoming gunfire on a horse isn’t easy. Leading them to jump off their rides to regain that advantage over their enemies.
CLANG
“Han!” Lu called out after getting Ieyasu’s blade to lock with him.
“Lord Ieyasu!” Mitsunari called out after seeing a gleam.
“What–”
BANG
Ieyasu’s shoulder was shot at. Thankfully for him, the bullet went through and didn’t lodge in his muscles. Still, he was in deep pain after that. Leading Lu to land a hit on Ieyasu, leading him to collapse to his knees from the pain.
“S-shit… I-” Ieyasu coughed up blood as his body was growing weak.
“My lord!” Hanzo called out only to be intercepted by another cloaked figure – Mang.
Mang was making sure neither of the warlords they are up against won’t die due to them needing in the next plans, “You aren’t going anywhere.”
“HAH!”
“They can’t stop us all at once–!”
Several ground troops went at Amari at once, only for them to fall after a quick sheath. Blood soaked the ground below them.
Ever since Amari arrived, the Moonlit Mirage kept going forward without looking behind. Shin and a few of the members stood behind, providing gunfire.
“Kanetsugu, take charge. I will deal with this.”
“Understood, Lord Kenshin.”
Kenshin lunged at Amari only to be blocked by her scatterboard. Even with the veil blurring her face, they stare at each other only for their swords to do the talking.
“...God of War, I suppose I shall indulge in your pastime.”
“Sir Hanzo! Report to Lord Kenshin!” Mitsunari ordered the ninja to be the messenger as the rear was under attack.
Ieyasu was barely holding onto his consciousness as the blood loss was taking a toll on him. Han and Lu already got rid of many less experienced soldiers with the other members of the Moonlit Mirage providing cover for their recruits. Their cloaks were covered in blood by their enemies. The only damage that the army gave to them was injuries that weren’t life threatening, just enough to slow them down.
“Lord Ieyasu! Can you stand?”
“C-can… shit–!”
Mang stood in front of the pitiful Ieyasu – holding onto life – with a sword in his hand. Ieyasu knows he is at the mercy of this man, yet he could only glare at him.
“...we’ve done enough damage. We will go and help out our princess,” Mang ordered the Moonlit Mirage as they quickly ran to their horses to assist Amari.
Mitsunari quickly caught Ieyasu as he faded out of consciousness. Everyone at the rear was badly hurt, those who tried to engage them head on were killed. As the ground told their struggle against the small group.
CLASH
Kenshin and Kanetsugu were battling against Amari who proved to live up to the rumors regarding her. Kanetsugu saw how each time she sheaths her blade, something in the air attacks them – leaving a small wound. The two quickly got out of her vicinity to avoid it.
“...they’ve done their part,” Amari said out of nowhere to the two as she blocked Kenshin’s attack. Almost instinctively.
The sounds of gunfire could be heard. Kenshin and Kanetsugu were hit but still standing as it didn’t hit any vital areas, not yet.
“What do you mean by that?” Kanetsugu tried to land a hit from below only to have it blocked by her scatterboard once more.
“Look behind you, man who killed a noble to defend himself.”
Kanetsugu was stunned at it, both him and Kenshin looked only to see another group coming after them from behind. Kanetsugu and Kenshin knew that if they came behind, the rear was attacked. Hanzo was caught by Ryo as he made his attempt to reach Kenshin only to be stopped.
Amari looked at the scene as her unit became ruthless without anything holding back. Trusting in their comrades to protect their backs no matter what – which they did.
“Sazio,” Amari called out the ninja’s name.
Sazio appeared next to her after waiting, “Yes?”
“...don’t kill them, not yet,” Amari quickly sat on the stained ground with her blade in its sheath next to her, as if waiting.
Sazio quickly knew what Amari was doing, which he made sure the two warlords did not interfere.
Amari spoke, “For so long…”
CLANG
“...I’ve waited.”
Sazio’s weapon brought him enough space between him and the two warlords.
“Even the few words of promise have sunk into oblivion.”
Kenshin and Kanetsugu were confused on what Amari was saying as they tried to deal with Sazio.
“Thus, at this moment, it will be severed–!”
A quick flash that the three stop in shock, Amari was already in the middle of the Alliance army. Her sword and sheath above her made Kanetsugu and Kenshin’s blood go cold. With her sword connecting to the sheath, many of their men fell, as if something hit them so fast.
Amari was surrounded by lifeless bodies of the men of Uesugi, Oda, and many more. Knowing Kanbei told her to use this once everything was done, Amari quickly turned to her group, “We’ve done our part. We shall go assist with the main army.”
A white horse quickly stood before her. Mounting on the horse before passing her sword to Shin to keep hold during the journey, Amari looked at those who were still standing.
“Sazio, let’s go,” Amari quickly brought her horse into a gallop.
With that, the Moonlit Mirage – covered in blood of their enemies – and Sazio left the battle. With many of the soldiers injured and some dead.
“Where is that group?” Yori tried to locate the batch of army that disperse from the Ashikaga only to see it. “H-hold on–!” Realizing too late that Kenshin, Kanetsugu, Ieyasu, and Mitsunari were attacked.
“Yori, what is wrong–!” Ryuu too saw what Yori saw.
Masahiro knew full well what happened, “...we must report this to Lord Nobunaga, NOW!”
Thus, the three quickly retreated in hopes to update their lords.
“Yoshimoto–!” Mai called to her lover after RIkyu landed a small hit on him.
“I’m alright, Mai. Something like this wouldn’t–!” Yoshimoto seemed to pause as he stared at the wound he got. “Atlas… It seems I’ve been poisoned.”
“W-what…?” Mai’s face went pale after hearing that.
“I may be a tea master, but in the end. You don’t live up to your name,” Rikyu turned to see where Amari and the Moonlit were coming from, “They’ve returned.”
Yoshimoto was shocked as Kenshin, Kanetsugu, Ieyasu, and Mitsunari were supposed to be there, not them. Realizing they've been caught and taken care of, “I suppose there is no way. I’m sorry, Mai.”
“Don’t be sorry Yoshimoto! Just– don’t die…”
“I’m sorry if there was a delay,” Amari announced as the lower parts of her kimono were now covered in blood along the veil.
“I’ll let you take over, Snow Princess.”
Rikyu took Mai and retreated to the main camp. Leaving the Moonlit Mirage to face Yoshimoto and the Imagawa. Seeing there is no need, Amari allowed Shin and Mang to take charge while she watched from afar.
Masterlist
If you have a hard time imagining what Amari did, here:
AN: yup, this is another writing of that AU of Amaryllis. This is like before Mai got kidnapped.
Amari looked at the city of Kyoto in its glory. She doesn’t know why she is helping Yoshiteru or them in general, the only thing that she can truly remember is that she swore an oath to him – to be his sword – among the slashed memories.
Despite being adopted into the Raku Clan and given a new name, she can’t help but wonder what her past was. Even then, it doesn’t matter to the girl as those memories would be used whenever she uses her blade. Letting out a loud sigh before walking away to carry out her duties as Yoshiteru’s Onmyōji.
“My apologies– oh,” Amari walked in a scene where Sazio was being picked on by Kanbei and Rikyu.
“Amari! Please–!” Sazio looked at her like a kicked puppy.
“Oh? Do you not like our affection?” Rikyu was playing with Sazio like usual.
“I-!”
“It’s alright if you don’t like it, you do have chubby cheeks,” Kanbei pinched his cheeks as if stating the matter.
Sazio could only act like a sad puppy as Kanbei and Rikyu double down on their attack on him. Amari didn’t seem that interested in the matter, just observing. Only to remember why she came here, “Kanbei.”
“Oh? What is it?”
“Something to be useful in the upcoming battles. From what I foresaw that is.”
“Not bad, you want a treat?” Rikyu looked at her with mischief.
“No. Sazio you can go,” with that Amari walked away.
“O-okay!”
The moment the two left, Kanbei and Rikyu sat in silence as Kanbei was heavily focused on what he was given. Seeing the notes that were given, he started to plan out in his mind.
“Are you going to get the Moonlit Mirage involved in the next?” Rikyu was at ease when saying the name.
“Maybe. Most of the people in mind wouldn’t be considered to be worthy for them, I do see some usage in them though,” Kanbei didn’t think much for the names involved.
“Oh? Are you going to bring them into ruin?”
“Humans are foolish at times.”
“T-thank you Amari!”
“You said that ten times already,” Amari would be annoyed if anyone continued to do that. Perhaps she is used to Sazio doing it and is accustomed to it.
“S-still! You are a lifesaver!”
“...” After that, Amari didn’t answer Sazio. Just letting him be her shadow in the meantime. They are used to this situation due to it being the first orders that they were given since meeting each other.
“D-do you still remember?”
“Remember what?”
“W-when Lord Yoshiteru gathered us! Ack- sorry! I’ll dig myself a grave…”
“...I remember fragments of it. It wasn’t surprising that Yoshiteru can do that or Hisahide. And, you don’t need to bury yourself. You would end up suffocating,” Amari merely shook her head before heading outside of the palace.
“Where will we be going…?”
“A ritual that Yoshiteru wants me to oversee on behalf of the shogunate.”
“That would mean…”
“Eyes, everywhere,” Amari paused in her walk before turning to Sazio, “You don’t need to come if you don’t want to.”
“B-but… if I don’t I would–!”
“You don’t need to answer right now, you could just watch.”
It was a ritual, Setsubun, to hope for fortune while casting any omens or demons out of the household with roasted beans in order to welcome spring – the new year. Amari stood there with her hands holding each other, hidden under her sleeves. A sense of nostalgia washed over her as she witnessed the children throwing beans without understanding, thinking it was a game of sorts. She closed her eyes on instinct, not understanding why before opening it once more to turn to the head monk.
“The ritual is completed, I shall take my leave. Thank you for extending your hand to allow us to take part,” Amari gave a slight bow to him.
“No need! It is a miracle that Lord Yoshiteru came back with members of his inner court to be capable! It is a shame that his younger brother wasn’t like that.”
Amari paid no heed to the monk’s words knowing it was the truth. It did take a bit of time to recover the image of the Ashikaga clan and the shogunate as a whole in Kyoto after Yoshiaki’s stunt on overthrowing the Emperor.
With that she and Sazio, who is in the shadow, took their leave, letting the background noises be filled with children's laughter and adults’ prayers for a better future.
“Here is the report for this year’s Setsubun,” Amari plops it down on Hisahide’s desk.
“That fast?” Hisahide quickly picked it up before reading its content. “So that’s everyone’s wish for the year. I suppose we can bring the luck they need soon," Instead of getting a headache, Hisahide seemed to smile at it.
“...is the plan to get the Princess of Fortune to begin in the following weeks?” Amari was waiting for a confirmation as it is a goal that was talked about the moment they set foot in Kyoto.
“We mustn’t be hasty, not until Yoshiteru says so, Amari.”
Amari looked at Hisahide with understandment, knowing that Yoshiteru’s mind is more intelligent than hers due to it being stable. Thus, she doesn’t press further than that before walking to her manor.
“Oh? Amari!” Yuna – a member of the Moonlit Mirage – called out to her.
“Is there something–!?” she was in the midst of her sentence before a pair of arms quickly engulfed her.
“Your hair is soooo fluffy as I remember! I wonder how you keep it like that!” Lu ruffled his leader’s hair despite the cold glare he was getting.
“Enough.”
“OWUCH!” Lu quickly fell to his knees after receiving a quick elbow in the stomach.
Amari looked at Lu before nodding to his brother, Han, to bring him to a place to sober up. Being an Onmyōji was never easy, but it was the only role that can allow her to use her powers in public, even if it’s painful – thankfully she merely needs to predict as that’s what everyone told her.
“You seem to be lost. Is there something that bothers you?” Yuna walked up to her, worried.
“...sometimes, I wonder who I was. Who I was before I became who I am,” Amari’s eyes held no light nor hope, just inclined to accept the world’s cruelty.
Yuna had no answer for her leader, just pity. Everyone in the Moonlit Mirage knows that their leader is special due to her powers but the cost of it is too much in their eyes. That is why they make sure she doesn’t need to use her sword much, otherwise the recent memories would be slashed like the old.
“You will find your answer some day,” Shin walked up to the two, clearly done organizing the schedule for tomorrow.
Amari did not respond, merely a glance of acknowledgement at her right-hand.
Ranmaru held the red muted haori that Amaryllis’ father wore as safe keep. Feeling a sense of unease that he cannot understand. After all, this haori is the only thing left of the Li Clan as a whole, with no other crest out that survived except for this one.
“ …I hope you’re alive, Ama.”
A nickname that he gave to them, who no longer exists, someone who has lost herself as she focuses on keeping track of time, as if preparing for something.
OCs (with their respective owners) featured in this Act: Arundhati & Kyoko/Violet ( @just-a-little-silly), Cherry (@cherrykasugayama), Ellara( @woofwoofimmaturtle), Morgan (@welp-back-on-my-bs)
Yoshimoto, Kicho, and Motonari did their jobs as they slowly led the Ashikaga Forces to their downfall in a manner where it wouldn't be noticeable – thanks to Yoshimoto’s planning. They merely waited till the sun was up. As it was the signal for the battle to begin.
Ryuu and Yori came back with new and updated information. Which made the alliance’s morale higher than ever. At least it isn’t in shambles like the Ashikaga’s. Morgan and Mai waited as they locked themselves in a room to prevent Yoshiaki from doing something stupid – like he could when his mind is against him at the moment.
Sounds of war cries and clashes echoed through the field. The Ashikaga’s were slowly being pulled back, losing their footing and control over Kyoto as the alliance pushed forward.
“It’s been awhile, hasn’t it? Cousin.” Mitsuhide and Kicho were engaged with each other. A stand off with their respective guns and their swords in their other hand.
BANG
“You’ve heard about it, haven’t you?” Kicho shot an Ashikaga that was behind Mitsuhide – his way of telling him.
While for Mitsuhide, he didn’t give up his smile, “I am indebted to you as you did save my student from death. Atlas, that doesn’t mean you can make a move on them till dear Hideyoshi says so.”
“That is their choice to make, no one else.”
Motonari was at the rear, making sure no cowards ran into the safety of Kyoto.
“Where the hell you goin’?” Motonari had the gun at the Ashikaga as he cowarded in fear.
“P-please! Let me go! I beg– EEP!”
“Get yer ass back in the front.”
Just one look at Motonari was enough to force the vassal to jump on his feet to fight. Seeing their reactions and trying to run made him laugh at how stupid they truly are.
“Sure putting on a show, thanks, rascal,” Motonari kept his guard up alongside his crew as they made sure nobody got to the confines of the city till the alliance was in his sights. Thanking a person that he knows he shouldn’t make an enemy of.
“Father–!” Sanzou was cornered by the Date, who all had a personal grudge to settle.
“Do hope you can handle our style of fighting, Sanzou,” Masamune charged forward as Yori dealt with the gunman and Kojuro covering him when needed.
CLASH
“You sure are annoying…” Sanzou glared at Kojuro who blocked on his lord’s behalf.
“Not as annoying when you tried to tear the trust with us,” Kojuro quickly did a fast sweep attack which knocked Sanzou over – only to recover.
The attack was familiar from that night, Amaryllis did that to him quite a lot in their battle. Whether it be kicking him in the chin or face. He hasn’t fully recovered from that battle. Swiping the blood off his mouth, Sanzou could only grit in fury, “So that shit… she really did teach you to do that? No wonder you’re annoying like her.”
WHISPP!!!
If Sanzou took that step, he would have his head shot at. A member of Uraguchi took that unsuspecting hit. He turned to see an archer with a short bow instead of a long one. “What…?”
“Consider it payback for nearly killing my friend,” Daiju let go of the string to fire at him again before jumping back to let Ranmaru at him.
“Thought you might need help knowing he is an Uraguchi!” Ranmaru quickly made Sanzou locked in on him.
“Tch… how many are you–!?”
“Quite a lot, after all, you did try to kill someone we care about,” Yori smiled with his hair flowing in the wind, before letting Ellara make her grand entrance – to spite the Uraguchi further.
“You–!” Sanzou quickly swipes at Ranmaru only for him to dodge.
“It’s been awhile… Sanzou.”
Ellara was no longer cowering at him, even as her trauma resurfaces. She wore something different than her usual, like it was meant to mock the clan for everything they’ve done to her. A symbol that she has severed ties with them, for good.
“Mind if we handle him?” Masamune asked Ranmaru and Daiju.
“I don’t mind, as long as he is taken care of,” Daiju smiled before turning to Ranmaru. “Not sure about Ranmaru.”
Ranmaru wanted to give Sanzou a piece of his mind but he knew that the Date could handle his payback alongside theirs, “Let’s go and support Master Kennyo, Daiju.”
“On it! Good luck and give that fucker hell on our behalf!” Daiju waved as they ran to where the Ikko-Ikki was.
“Seems like I’m out numbered,” Sanzou saw that there were no openings for him except for what's above him.
“Kojuro. Ellara. Cover me.”
“Got it”/ “Understood my lord.”
CLANG
BANG
“Currently getting rid of their gunmen,” Masahiro reloaded his gun before firing once more.
“That should clear the path for Lord Kenshin and Lord Shingen with their armies to split the army into two,” Mitsunari confirmed as he used the makeshift telescope that Sasuke made.
“Where did you get that…?” Ieyasu was confused about what Mitsunari was holding.
“Oh! Sir Sasuke thought to give me this for the battle to see the battle from afar! Quite handy, I might need to ask–”
“Nevermind,” Ieyasu let out a sigh before turning to his troops, “Ready.” The archers ready their fire, aiming where their arrows will land at – the bulk of the Ashikaga. “Fire.”
With that, countless arrows filled the skies to the Ashikaga while the allies retreated or made their bodies small enough to avoid being impacted. Allowing the chaos for the allies to take advantage and push them further.
“Lord Yoshimoto made sure this battle is easy to be won without it being shown,” Mitsunari couldn’t help but show respect to the warlord.
“He has always been like that,” Ieyasu muttered under his breath.
While at the alliance’s camp, two spies were caught by Cherry – who seemed to be pissed. Using her naginata, she made sure neither of them was in no position to talk.
“You. Will be a prisoner of war and your fate will be decided by the Emperor,” Cherry’s eyes held no warmth, only a cold rage that could destroy a year’s crop.
Only for them to be knocked out, fading out of consciousness as their last sights were a princess who had grown tired of being underestimated.
Cherry turned to the Oda vassals and ordered them to be tied up and made sure they were alive till the end of the battle. Which the vassals nodded and did as told. Even without her brother’s presence, the Oda’s flower is dangerous, poisonous to those who tried to play rough. And she is in-charge of the camp till the warlords come back – leading her to be the commander in this situation.
“Master!”
Two quick fires of arrows met its targets as it covered Kennyo’s blind spots. With that last one being cut down by Ranmaru. Kennyo saw the children who were once under his wing are now fine men, no longer needing his strength to protect them. A smile forms on his face seeing such.
“Thank you both,”Kennyo flicks the blood off his blade with Ranmaru walking alongside him while Daiju covers them from afar.
The Ikko-Ikki is a group of war monks, those who once lost their way, only to find it once more after the curtains that blinded them fell. None of the disciples had an urge to take revenge, only to protect the remaining peace of this war torn land.
“Daiju!”
“Got it!”
An arrow fired from Daiju’s string, covering Ranmaru – his best friend – from harm while alerting others of any enemies trying to do a sneak attack. For the first time, everyone felt like they found a path they can walk on, one that does not need blood to drink after this.
The sun was high, telling them that it is noon. And the battle slowly drew to an end as the Ashikaga Forces were forced into a corner. Only for Yoshimoto to stop them with Motonari and Kicho shooting at those who tried to flee into the city.
“W-why!?”
“‘Why?’ Lemme tell ya, it’s the fact we betrayed ya!” Motonari smirked with his crew rounding them up with Kicho’s.
“W-what…?”
The Ashikaga stood there in shock. They couldn’t believe that they were fooled and tricked. Some fell to their knees in their disbelief.
“We will face the punishment that his Majesty will give,” Yoshimoto shut his fan closed before turning to where Yoshiaki was cooped up in. “Kicho, have you made sure Yoshiaki hasn’t left?”
“He boarded himself in his room after a supposed ‘haunting’ last night,” Kicho smiled knowing who was behind it, after all one who knows the mind best knows how to destroy it.
“I see, I suppose judgement will be here soon,” Yoshimoto saw the alliance drawing in.
Nobody from the Ashikaga stopped them as they were captured, with Yoshiaki being captured soon after once he was found. Only to come across his deceased corpse from committing seppuku – a last desperate attempt to preserve his honor.
With the conclusion of the Battle of Kyoto coming to a close, Go-Yōzei was reinstated as Emperor once more, giving a speech to his subjects and the alliance for saving him. Thus, ending the Great War which will be recorded for years to come.
Using the pardon that the Emperor gave to the alliance, Yoshimoto, Kicho, and Motonari were all placed under the watchful eye of the alliance. With Nobunaga assigning Morgan to be Kicho and Motonari’s overseer. Mai being Yoshimoto’s. Thus, the three were spared and no imperial order to kill them or a sense of punishment. While those who willingly went for the throne like the Uraguchi were given a bounty thus, forcing them go into hiding to avoid being massacred. With some facing punishment by committing seppuku or their clan dissolved from everything.
CLINK!
“Man, that was amazing!” Keiji gave Kanetsugu a nudge.
“Keiji. Stop,” Kanetsugu was scooting away only for Keiji to do the same.
“Nahh!”
Kyoko could not stifle her laughter seeing her lover at ease. The moment the battle ended, the effects that everyone suffered due to the future changing, disappeared – as if it wasn’t there in the first place. Leading many to celebrate for the bright future that this land will have.
“When were you going to tell us!?” Hideysohi could only stutter in his speech as the alcohol took a hit.
“Uhm… we just didn’t want to? Why are you crying–” Amaryllis looked at her current adoptive father with worry.
“Hideyoshi, you seem to have quite an appetite for sake today,” Mitsuhide was enjoying Hideyoshi's suffering while ignoring Ranmaru’s glare.
“Lord Mitsuhide, you knew. From the very start, didn’t you?”
“It was quite obvious for you, especially how you looked at her when you two first went to the market together.”
“Huh?” Ranmaru had a blue screen moment as he didn’t think anybody would see that far.
“Told you, Ranmaru. You were too obvious with your feelings with Amaryllis–”
“Daiju, no! Don’t say it–”
“I will say it,” Daiju was now smiling at Ranmaru knowing that he knows almost every embarrassing tale about him.
“Do tell, Daiju.”
“Very well, Lord Mitsuhide.”
It was almost as if Ranmaru was surrounded by two kitsune – one is his best friend while the other was his lover’s teacher – all he could do was sigh knowing that it is best to let it play out. Amaryllis laughed at hearing the embarrassing tales of Ranmaru that she couldn’t experience from Daiju, leading Ranmaru to hide his face in her neck.
In a certain group, Yukimura sat with the ninjas who seemed to be in great spirits – especially Sasuke and Arundhati.
“Shall we have another cheer, Lord Yukimura?” Yori suggested while hinting at something else.
“I’m not even on my third cup–”
“Lord Yukimura, relax. We aren’t like Lord Kenshin, we mostly moderate our drinks constantly due to a certain lord who can’t handle his cup,” Yori interrupted him before making a jab at his lord.
Ever since, the ninjas started calling their former enemies by their titles – lord for an example – to show their respect. Which made Yukimura feel a bit uneasy. Only to feel a rough hand on his shoulder, making him turn around.
“This is usual for Yori. Him and Lord Masamune are close, just like everyone in the Date clan,” Masahiro reassured the young man.
“Thanks?”
“Yuki, you really need to work on showing your respect to people other than Lord Shingen,” Arundhati shook her head before taking a sip from her cup.
“It will take years for Yuki to get there,” Sasuke agreed on his lover’s statement.
“You- guys…” Yukimura felt a bit embarrassed at being called out.
Ryuu could only sit there in silence as he looked where Mai was at. Drinking with Yoshimoto and the other warlords. A pang of hurt was present in each beat of his heart. He knows he has to move on, which he will. With time.
Morning arrived, with all the warlords in a room to discuss what to do next. A discussion to continue the alliance or not.
OCs (with their respective owners) featured in this Act: Arundhati & Kyoko/Violet ( @just-a-little-silly), Cherry (@cherrykasugayama), Ellara( @woofwoofimmaturtle), Morgan (@welp-back-on-my-bs)
Sasuke and Ranmaru arrive, only to be met with a sight of a fallen sword on the ground that belongs to someone – Amaryllis. Ranmaru looked up before seeing a familiar figure falling to the ground. Without thinking, he sprung into action – catching them.
“Amaryllis!”
Amaryllis was shocked that they came for them, even as Ranmaru landed on the ground. He didn’t seem to let go of her, only looking at the injuries that she sustained. “Y-you… WHY DID YOU DO THAT!? We were– I was worried Ama!” Ranmaru seemed to be on the brink of crying as he tightened his grip on her.
“I- sorry…” that was all Amaryllis could give before realizing someone was still up there, fighting, “I need to get back up there–! Ow…”
“You aren’t going anywhere Ama!”
Sasuke seemed to understand that Arundhati was up there, which he sprung into action fast. Not wasting a second to spare. Unless he wanted to see her corpse covered in blood.
“Why did you–!” Ranmaru was about to ask Amaryllis before seeing her reach for something in her kimono, a letter with a red seal.
“Thank goodness…” Amaryllis let out a sigh she didn’t know she was holding.
“What is that?”
“A letter of pardon that the Emperor wrote for us, the alliance.”
Arundhati was exhausted, her movement and reaction was now sluggish. Using the last of her remaining strength, Arundhati went for it, aiming at Yoshiaki’s chest.
…
SHKKK!!!
A spray of blood came from Yoshiaki, from his chest but not a fatal blow. Something that wouldn’t scar him, and even with that, he now knew fear. Collapsing to the ground as he touched the injury to his chest, panicking “GUARDS! KILL THAT RODENT!”
Before any of them could reach her, countless smoke bombs went off. Sanzou was distracted as he instinctively covered his eyes as the smoke covered the room.
“As much as I want you to explain everything, this place wouldn’t be it.”
“S-Sasuke-?!”
Arundhati was taken off guard before she was carried by him, Sasuke using his ninja skills, jumped off of the balcony with Arundhati on his back. Only for them to land on the ground safely where Ranmaru and Amaryllis were at.
“Not a moment to waste,” Sasuke took off running as he held Arundhati, who was still on his back.
“On it!” Ranmaru carried Amaryllis in his arms as they quickly fled.
Yoshiaki stared at the group fleeing, clenching his chest where the slash was there – bleeding. He was angry at how someone was so close to killing him. “What are you all doing there!? Get them!”
“Y-yes your excellency!”
The vassals ran off while Sanzou looked at the group with disgust. Unable to understand why they seem to trust each other, nor why he seems to envy their closeness with each other.
Ryuu looked at the two – Matabe and Okuni – who were fast asleep. He felt a sense of nostalgia seeing them like that, reminding something he could have had if it wasn’t for his eyes being different. After all, anything out of the ordinary in this era would be deemed a demon or cursed because of how you look unless you were born of a higher status.
He stood there, waiting for Mai to return as the sun was about to break soon. Yet, he knew the answer that Mai would give him. He saw the devotion that Mai has for Yoshimoto, he couldn’t help but feel a bit saddened at the given fact; he didn’t protest. Letting Mai have her answer from Yoshimoto himself.
“M-mister…?” Matabe seems to call out to him, despite sleep being present in his eyes.
“Yeah?” Ryuu turned to the young boy.
“Will you protect Mai..?”
Ryuu seemed to freeze before smiling and patted the boy’s head, “Of course, it is my duty to protect anyone in the Oda. Especially if they can’t defend themselves.”
That seems to reassure Matabe; he returns to his slumber. Ryuu looked at the door where Mai slowly stepped in, finally getting her answer.
“I’m sorry… Ryuu. I’m staying here; I want the alliance to fight with everything with nothing holding them back, even if it means I will be an enemy to the alliance,” Mai gave her answer to him.
“...I understand. And Lady Mai, the alliance will understand your reason. I’m certain,” Ryuu nodded before leaving Mai after getting her answer.
Mai watches as Ryuu leaves, a sense of pity could be felt. Yet, she promised to Yoshimoto that she will stay by his side till the end. Looking at the two sleeping, Mai knows she made the right choice – one she would not regret.
“Please… let us win.”
In a forgotten room in his residence, the Emperor sat there, afraid. He knew that taking up the throne would mean responsibility but he didn’t want to die. He was still young. Only to hear a voice that seemed to comfort him.
“Greetings, Your Majesty, I do hope you have a moment to spare.”
Turning around, Go-Yōzei saw two cloaked figures. Yet their hairs were peeking out, one with white and the other in a pinkish or reddish shade. “W-what do you want…?”
“An offer, in which in return, we will protect you and your rule,” the one with his pink hair out spoke.
“What… offer…?”
Instead of the same cloaked figure, it was the other one, in a voice that held no warmth compared to the other one, “For me to reestablish myself as Shogun, officially, in due time. With your support, Your Majesty.”
Go-Yōzei was so confused, all the remaining Ashikaga from the main branch were all supposedly killed off, only Yoshiaki remains from that said branch. “W-who… are you two…?” his voice was no longer what a ruler would carry, just a terrified teenager.
“Yoshiteru Ashikaga.”/ “Hisahide Matsunaga.”
Back to where Morgan, Yori, Kicho, and Motonari were at. They all came to a conclusion, which Yori personally went to deliver their message – Kicho and Motonari defecting but staying behind to clean up their mess. Masahiro let out a long sigh but a letter was made to show their words thankfully.
“Never again. You hear me?”
“I hear you Masahiro,” Yori did not in fact hear him.
Ryuu arrived with nobody else with him, telling the two that Mai chose to stay behind on her own accord. The same thing that Morgan did.
“Mai chose to stay behind?”
“Yes. Huh?” Ryuu turned to where the ruckus was about, seeing the group running away before being pursued shortly after.
“They’ve done their job. For you two, gather information and work while maintaining your distance with those two warlords,” Masahiro was already running after the group to assist in their escape.
“On it!”/“Understood.”
With that, the group went their separate ways to continue their jobs. Even as the sun finally started to give way to bring hope to the residents of Kyoto.
“Sorry…”
Neither of them could bring themselves to look at their friends, guilt present as their hair covered their faces. Ieyasu was already walking up to both of them to patch them only to stop when Amaryllis brought out the letter – walking to the lords with it.
Giving a bow as she handed the letters to them, “I know what I’ve done has placed the alliance in jeopardy but… I do hope this is enough to forgive me for my actions.”
Nobunaga saw the red sigil, surprised that the first recklessness from her brought something that he wouldn’t fathom. “This is from the Emperor, correct?”
“Yes, my lord. A letter of pardon for the alliance if Kyoto is damaged during battle.”
Nobunaga let the silence stretch, letting the nearby vassals watch before smiling. “Very well, you are forgiven and I suppose with this, we have an imperial order from the Emperor himself.”
“Are we sure it’s from the Emperor?” Keiji was in disbelief at seeing something. You don’t get an imperial order often.
“It is from the Emperor himself,” Mitsuhide confirmed.
Kennyo looked at the two, clearly heavily wounded from a night long battle. Turning to his friend, Shingen, they both came to the same conclusion. “Both of you are standing down from any future fights till your injuries are healed.”
“Alright–”
“I can still fight Lord Shingen–!”
“Aru, you NEARLY GOT YOURSELF KILLED!” Sasuke interrupted her, clearly nobody was expecting such.
“I-” Arundhati had no answers as it was what she was doing. She looked away.
“On other matters, Masahiro?”
“Regarding both hostages, they chose to stand behind. With Morgan convincing both Motonari and Kicho to defect the Ashikaga as a whole, but they too stayed to destroy it from the inside. With Lady Mai, she wishes to stay with Lord Yoshimoto till the end. Giving her regards to the alliance to not hold back in the upcoming fight,” Masahiro gave the report that both Yori and Ryuu gave.
“That idiot…” Shingen quickly found out what Yoshimoto was planning.
“What is it?” Kenshin was now looking at Shingen.
“He plans to get himself killed. To drag the shogun and Imagawa down with him to hell.”
Today would not be the battle but tomorrow. Which gave the love birds to repair the fragmented trust with each other.
Arundhati laid on the bedding as she thought about Yoshimoto’s plan. She wanted to stop him but knowing she was under strict orders from Shingen to stay put till she is fully healed, it would only be after the war is over that she would talk to him – if he doesn’t kill himself. Letting out a loud sigh that echoed her tent for only Sasuke to walk into her tent.
“...”
None of them spoke, with Arundhati looking away as she remembered the harsh words she said to Sasuke – how she hated him and everything. She didn’t want to face him, not now.
“Did you mean it?”
“What?” Arundhati was confused about what Sasuke was saying.
“Did you mean it when you said you hate me? You wanted nothing to do with me or be with me?”
Arundhati felt her words stuck to her throat, she only said those words in hope that he wouldn't try to stop her or be hurt if she died. ”I-”
Crouching down, Sasuke made her look at him, face to face. “I can’t stand seeing you in pain, Aru. I will–”
“I love you.”
Sasuke was shocked at hearing those words coming from Arundhati’s lips, before being pulled into a hug by her. He felt the tears from Arundhati’s eyes falling on his shoulder. Staining it.
“I love you and I’m yours, entirely yours if you still want me. Being with you is everything I wanted the moment you gave me that ring as our promise… Everything I said that day was a lie, a bold-faced lie, Sasuke! I said because I wanted you to hate me… hate me and despise me so you wouldn’t come after me! And yet… you did and I–” Arundhati choked on her sobs as her tears continued to stream down. Wetting Sasuke’s shoulder more.
“...How could I ever hate you?”
Sasuke looked at his lover, wiping her tears with his hands. He was foolish to believe the lie for a second when he knew that his heart was saying she was lying to him. Seeing his lover in bandages, he wanted to be with her in every way till she cannot live without him.
Not a single word needed to be spoken between them as they drew closer till they kissed. A kiss of lovers that found each other after nearly losing each other in the ocean of their emotions.
While in another tent, Amaryllis was asleep after confiding in Ranmaru about what she felt for almost the past decade. Her feeling lost, unsure about her capabilities, everything about herself – one’s insecurity that was made from the loss of her memories and pain.
Ranmaru comforted her, even kissing the tears that fell from her eyes. Seeing her in a state of weakness, he couldn’t help but feel glad that he was the only one to see this. Seeing that hair ornament that he bought for her years ago still with her; seeing how she too loved him – to feel that he was with her. It was a feeling he knew that she wouldn't escape his grasp, no more.
“Thank you, for trusting me with everything, Ama.”
Only a soft sigh could be heard from the sleeping Amaryllis, holding tight to Ranmaru – afraid of losing him once more. With Ranmaru tightening his hold of her with that same fear. Fear of losing each other.
Back in Kyoto, everything was in a disarray. Yoshiaki was being more unrealistic and commanding that everyone was on edge. Except for Yoshimoto, Kicho, and Motonari – who all agreed this has to end before the pain passes on to the next generation who were too once innocent like them.
“I never expected you would do this,” Yoshimoto was only smiling as a mask.
“Thought it would be best, after someone removed that voice,” Kicho didn’t stop being suspicious of Yoshimoto automatically, not yet.
“Hell, that Shogun really knows how to screw one up,” Motonari looked at the destruction that Yoshiaki left.
The shogun was constantly yelling that someone was out to get him, even when they weren't nearby. A pitiful sight for Yoshimoto while the other two thought otherwise – he is nothing more than a coward hiding behind the bodies of people who trusted him.
Originally, Yoshimoto was supposed to be with Mai to send Okuni and Matabe off but due to Yoshiaki’s paranoia, he was forced to be near him constantly like the two. Instead it was Morgan. Morgan told Mai about the two’s choices after a long conversation between them last night.
“I’m glad,” Mai let out a sigh she didn’t know she was holding.
“The two must have escaped with their lives according to the people I’ve talked to…” Morgan thought about their friends, worried.
“I do hope they achieved what they were after,” Mai couldn’t help but let her tears run from her, no longer holding it back.
“They probably have…”
Kanetsugu supported Kyoko as she sat up after her fever died down, for now. Telling her everything that has happened and the fact that Arundhati survived, leading her to let out tears of relief that her sister is still with her.
“Thank goodness…”
“Hold on for a bit longer. This will end soon. I promise,” Kanetsugu hugged her before smiling.
“Right, that battle will determine if I… and everyone will live to see another day.”
“Ellara.”
Nobunaga stood in front of her with his warlords behind him. Ellara didn’t look up, only closed her eyes, waiting for a verdict. Her clan had done something unspeakable let alone committed treason against the throne – which was not what she fought for.
“Yes, Lord Nobunaga…?”
“Your words from days ago saved a pillar and trust in this alliance, as well saving a pawn from dying. In which, you will be given an option. Fully defect and sever ties from your clan or join their end,” Nobunaga was giving her a choice with a reason.
Ellara looked up in disbelief, having a second chance and choosing a path she truly wanted to follow. Turning to Kojuro and Masamune, Ellara knew her answer.
“I, Ellara, will defect from my clan. Just like my uncle who severed ties with those traitors.”
Ellara bowed in front of him, showing her earnest and honest answer. Nobunaga smirked seeing how Ellara said only her name, not her family name. Masamune, Kojuro, and among those in the Date smiled – seeing that Ellara never truly aligned herself with them but never had a choice to cut ties till now.
“Very well. Masamune, I suppose you will take her back into your service then?”
“Indeed, Lord Nobunaga,” Masamune walked before releasing Ellara from the ropes. “Welcome back, Ellara.”
“It’s good to be back… Masamune,” Ellara smiled with her heart now beating faster while feeling like she took a breath of fresh air in a long time.
At night, the Date clan welcomed back Ellara and proposed she should come up with a name to replace that the Uraguchi once held to her. Realizing it, Ellara thought about it, before calling herself – Ellara Tsurumaki. Kojuro approved, knowing that the name suited her more than the Uraguchi. Masamune was already calling dibs on Ellara’s attention from everyone – leading many of the vassals to joke how their lord has a crush on her.
Masahiro sat and watched it from afar. He felt proud that someone he watched finally made a step to get rid of their chains that was forced upon them, only to turn towards Keiji – dealing with the Maeda vassals’ problems with him. Deciding it was enough, he walked up to defend his son.
“Enough. You are vassals of Nobunaga as well, if you act such, it will only lead to discourse in which, Lord Toshiie will clean up YOUR mess instead of Lord Keiji.”
That seems to make the Maeda vassals back off as they mummer under their breath how Keiji was lucky for today.
“Son, you must stand your ground. Your uncle may be the head, but that does not mean everything. After all, I’m certain what you saw earlier today must have inspired you to do something – something similar,” Masahiro looked at Keiji, almost lecturing him from an outsiders’ perspective.
“I know. I know. You’ve always–” Keiji was more comfortable dropping his act with Masahiro than anyone in the Oda.
“Your father’s dream is important, yes, but does that make you happy? Keiji?”
Keiji thought about it, all his life was acting and acting. When has he felt happy other than upset that every time he does something, it's always wrong in his uncle’s eyes. That infuriates him more than ever, his spear was the last thing that his father gave before giving up on everything.
Masahiro merely sighs before saying, “A dream is important, yes. But we shouldn’t carry one’s dream unless it brings us some sort of closure or happiness. We all have limited time, son. It shouldn’t be wasted on something trying to prove to someone.”
Keiji relaxed before resuming his act, “I understand Masahiro! No need to worry for me! I will find a dream for me to follow!”
In the warlord’s inner-circle, only Masahiro can call him his son. Nobody else, not even his own father as he never really was a father to him after that day where his clan became a ronin due to the previous Oda lord. Masahiro treated and loved him as his own despite everything – a found family you could say.
“Lord Ieyasu?” Mitsunari looked at his fellow warlord, seemingly watching over Amaryllis and Ranmaru sleeping.
Even stepping in the tent, the two didn’t move. Like they were exhausted from an all-nighter fight. Not even Amaryllis stirred as Ieyasu replaced the bandages with salves to quicken the healing and prevent any scarring.
“What do you want?”
“Nothing! Merely glad that Amaryllis is safe,” Mitsunari smiled before seeing the muted-red haori. “Isn’t this…?”
“What did you find?” Ieyasu stood up before walking to Mitsunari.
“Doesn’t this crest belong to the Li Clan? The same clan that was said to be–”
“Killed off… that would explain why Shingen and Kennyo looked worried. Knowing that the last known Li, Shinji, was close with them. Ever since they were young.” Ieyasu turned to Amaryllis with worry, “That would mean…”
“Amaryllis would be the last of the Li, in name…”
Ieyasu and Mitsunari haven’t experienced the weight of being the last of your clan – whether you are related by blood or name – it must have hurt knowing she is the last. Both of them didn’t need to speak about the worry they have for her. The Li was once brought by the last shogunate – Kamakura Shogunate – only for it to dissolve, which led the Muromachi Shogunate to be its replacement. Meaning it is still considered an important clan for the Shogunate due to their advanced knowledge, which Yoshiaki screwed up the moment Kyoto became a battlefield.
“Lord Ieyasu, we should better keep this quiet. We already don’t want this situation to change for the worse.”
“I was going to agree regardless, Mitsunari.”
“You've been repeating ‘I don’t trust Kicho’s words after he blew up Lord Nobunaga’s tenshu’ for the past 10 minutes, Hideyoshi,” Mitsuhide merely smiled before giving out a chuckle.
“Like you have something to say! He has the galls to do it after– no does he think it’s a joke!? I refused to believe it until–” HIdeyoshi was going on his rant about Kicho’s words and Motonari. The two in question sneezed, which means they definitely heard it from afar.
Mitsuhide merely smiled, but now he realized that his cousin has grown feelings for his student. Which made him uncomfortable for some reason, especially how Kicho held Morgan in his arms before carrying them into the manor. “Good grief… these students of mine will be the death of me, I suppose.”
“Mitsuhide… what are you hiding…?” Hideyoshi stopped in his rant before glaring at his friend who can’t tell him anything.
“Perhaps you haven’t heard but Amaryllis and Ranmaru are dating, according to a few. As well–”
“WHAT!? WHEN!?”
“Do you think I’ve an idea? All I know is that they started it without making an announcement till after,” Mitsuhide now walked away from Hideyoshi to mess with him.
“MITSUHIDE! GET BACK HERE! WE KNOW YOU KNOW THE ANSWER FOR THAT!”
Despite the morale in the alliance at an all time high after getting a letter from the Emperor, two warlords and a princess seem to be not. Nobunaga caught Kenshin talking and courting his little sister, Cherry, which led the two to have a staring contest. If staring could kill, everyone would be dead.
“I didn’t expect you to be fond of women, knowing the rumors around you.”
“Excuse me?”
“Brother… manners.”
Nobunaga seem to stop as he looked at his sister, “You know full well–”
“Brother, this would be beneficial if you just let me and Kenshin be. After all, I doubt anyone would want to fight after this knowing everyone is getting along and understanding each other. Besides, if me and Kenshin are wed, it would also be considered an alliance, would it not?” Cherry seems to be rebuking the claims in his head with logic.
He accepted his defeat against his sister – whom he can never win – with a sigh, “Very well… But, we will need to decide if this alliance will continue or not.”
“You will need to convince Shingen if you want this alliance to be permanent, Nobunaga,” Kenshin gave his blunt response.
Knowing the animosity between the two clans, Nobunaga knows it will be a troublesome conversation with the Tiger of Kai. “I will see it in due time.”
Yukimura and Sasuke relaxed as they looked at the clouds. Arundhati was resting and Kanetsugu did not leave Kyoko’s side for a while.
“Soooo? How did it go?”
“Great, me and Arundhati made up and solidified our promise once more,” Sasuke smiled which sorta creeped Yukimura out.
“I can’t get used to you smiling like that…”
“Why not?”
“You look like a completely different person! Hell even Lord Kenshin looks like– wait… oh…” usually he would be the last to connect the dots but seems like he is the first.
“What is it?”
“I think Lord Kenshin is in love with the Oda Princess…”
“I see no problem with that.”
Yukimura could only sigh in defeat.Ever since the alliance began, the armies began to trust each other and saw how their lords’ goals align – minus Kenshin’s. Beginning to realize that Nobunaga wasn’t cruel as a person, just cruel as a warlord. Even when the nearby lords joined in to save the Emperor from Yoshiaki.
“I suppose that peace will come soon… I do hope I can see my hometown once more,” Yukimura thought about the flowers and rivers that flow with nature.
“You will, I’m sure of it, Yuki.”
“Lord Yoshimoto–!”
“SILENCE! From here on out, all of you are no longer in my service,” Yoshimoto let go of his vassals, in hopes to spare them.
The Imagawa vassals stood there in shock, with their lord walking away. Only to realize, this was what their lord was all about at his core. Sessai saw them as nothing more than a pawn or fool, while Yoshimoto saw them as people. Not someone to look down upon.
With them no longer being connected to the Imagawa, the charges that would be on them will never be there. It will never come to pass.
“Where is Kicho!?”
“He-”
“Where is he!?”
Yoshiaki had already lost his rationality. None of the loyal vassals of his could calm him down. It didn’t help that the majority of his vassals had fled after the battle in the Emperor’s chambers – scared of being the next meat shield of his.
Meanwhile, Morgan watches Yoshiaki’s behavior with some of Kicho’s assistants. All of them held no sympathy for the man, as overthrowing the throne is condemned with death.
“Morgan, what shall we do?”
“...Kicho and the others are doing the framework. As for us, we can do some… psychological attack on the already paranoid Shogun,” Morgan smiled while mimicking Mitsuhide’s. Having some ideas in mind.
None of the assistants were aware of what Morgan had in mind. After all, what they will do would go against the Geneva Convention, but there was none at this time, which means they wouldn’t be condemned. Like tricking their enemies with food constantly to let their guard down only to throw bombs at them soon after. Or forcing them to lose track of time by constantly screwing with the lights.
The moment it became dark. Yoshiaki sat wide awake as he heard noises outside, constantly on guard despite all his guards telling him that there is nothing – guards who lost trust in their shogun.
“What did I do…? It was my birth right to rule!”
Only for a loud whisper to make his paranoia worsen from the shoji screens:
“Are you sure? What about those who you pushed aside as they tried to protect you only to be killed by your hands?”
“Y-you–!” Yoshiaki opened it in a panic, only for nobody to be there, just a mask. Mocking him.
OCs (with their respective owners) featured in this Act: Arundhati ( @just-a-little-silly), Sanzou( @woofwoofimmaturtle), Morgan (@welp-back-on-my-bs)
Morgan woke up, in an unfamiliar room only to see Mai with Okuni and Matabe. Realizing that all of them aren’t at the merchant house anymore, somewhere else now.
Mai, seeing their confusion, told them that they are in Kyoto, in a noble’s house that was forced over by Yoshiaki.
Morgan now understood what happened after they were shot and unconscious, trying to stand up only to feel a wave of pain going through them. “Shit… didn’t think it was that bad…”
“...are you okay?” Matabe asked while huddling close to Mai.
“Y-yeah… just pain,” with that, Morgan was able to stand up with clenching where they were shot at.
“Wait, where are you going?!” Mai was worried if they decided to do something reckless while still recovering.
“...going to Kicho. To see if his mind has changed, I won’t stop trying to change his way of thinking till the end.”
With that, Morgan slowly walked out of the room – trying to find Kicho and change his mind no matter what. Okuni and Matabe looked at them, seeing how despite the pain they are in, they won’t relinquish their convictions until the end. Reminding the two about Yoshimoto’s words where he wanted them to spread their craft to the entire world. With Mai understanding Morgan’s words, thus letting them walk out.
“Aru,” Amaryllis quickly whispered as both of them quickly got behind a wall as the noises of celebration with Yoshiaki’s voice resonated through the hallways.
“Is there anybody else except for that trash?” Arundhati whispers, clearly trying to find if there is a Uraguchi, Motonari, Yoshimoto, or Kicho in there.
Straining her ears, Amaryllis shook her head only for her butterfly to come back. “There are none of them there nor on the premises, but we should be careful as the Uraguchi could be on the roof…”
“The emperor is nearby, you go get him. While for me,” Arundhati quickly tightened her grip on her sword while making sure her mask is on her face, “I’m going after that bastard.”
Seeing how determined Arundhati is, no persuasion would shake her convictions. Amaryllis nodded as she stealthy ascended the tower where the Emperor is at. With that, Arundhati quickly jumps into action.
SMASH
“Y-you!”
“YOU WILL PAY FOR EVERY BLOOD YOU HAVE SPILLED YOSHIAKI!!!”
Yoshiaki jumped back as Arundhati’s blade nearly scratched his face. Everyone quickly scrambled as they reached for their weapons. Without a moment to spare, Arundhati charged forward once more, which made Yoshiaki sweat knowing his attacker was set on killing him.
CLANG!!!
“Your Majesty,” Amaryllis called out to the emperor – Emperor Go-Yōzei – who is currently 14 years old.
“W-who are you!? If you’re apart of that–”
“I’m not with them, I’m on behalf of that alliance that wishes to save you, Your Majesty,” Amaryllis gave a deep bow to prove her words to the young emperor.
“The… alliance?”
“I merely wish for a letter of pardon for the alliance, if tragedy strikes Kyoto that is,” Amaryllis kept her head low, even as the clashes of steel slowly become louder from the fighting that Yoshiaki and Arundhati are in.
The emperor looked at Amaryllis, even when in his formal clothes that says he is the emperor, he is powerless in this situation. And yet, seeing how Amaryllis didn’t force him but asked, it felt different knowing he was exploited by many. “Very well then, I’ll write a letter of pardon to the alliance. Do give me a moment to do so,” Emperor Go-Yōzei quickly brought his ink stone and brush to begin writing.
“Understood, Your Majesty,” Amaryllis sat up before walking towards the door, willing to lay her life to protect the young emperor.
“Where would they go!?” Ranmaru stood on top of a house's roof with Sasuke, looking for signs of their lovers.
“There is nothing… Wait!” Sasuke scanned before seeing a flock of crows flapping their wings fast towards them.
The moment when Ranmaru saw the flock, he recognized one of the crows to be Sơn – the crow that Amaryllis named, “Sơn! Where is Amaryllis!?”
Sơn merely gave a soft caw before using his wing to point towards the Emperor’s residence, making the two pale.
“There is no time to spare. Let’s go Ranmaru.”
“On it, Sasuke.”
Sanzou walked through the halls. Indifferent to what his clan has done to the throne. Only to stop as he felt someone’s presence – presence that nobody would notice except for an expert ninja – a person that shouldn’t be there outside of the emperor. “Someone is here. No, two.”
“Do keep it safe,” Emperor Go-Yōzei said as he stamped the sigil that represents the royal family onto the letter.
“I will, Your Majesty,” Amaryllis took the letter and placed it in her kimono. Till she turned to the door in alert, “Your Majesty, please, stand back.”
Emperor Go-Yōzei was confused but quickly understood that someone was out there, someone who was about to break the door to his chambers.
SLAM
“It’s you,” Sanzou walked in with his sword, dragging on the floor, “I supposed that means you are willing to die here.” With that, Sanzou went at her.
CLASH
Amaryllis quickly caught Sanzou’s attack – sliding back from the impact. A sound came out of her as she jumped back, trying to protect the emperor from harm. Which Sanzou took note of.
“You aren’t like any ninjas, are you? You still hold attachment-!” Sanzou decided to use his speed only to realize Amaryllis was gone.
Using her short stature, Amaryllis was quickly behind him in the air, using the roof to jump from, kicking his back, hard. Shaking Sanzou’s balance, which infuriated him in the process as he slid before plunging his sword in the balcony’s wood to stop him from sliding further.
“Attachment or not, we are not alike. As you are nothing more than an ant that does not know outside of its world,” Amaryllis pointed her sword at him while using her left arm to protect Go-Yōzei from his gaze.
“Shut. Up. You do not know anything about us,” Sanzou stood up and returned to his stance, preparing for an attack.
“One thing I do know, none of you have a place to return after this war,” Amaryllis went into her stance with a terrifying smile.
“Ugh…” Yoshiaki held his sword as he started to feel light headed after Arundhati laid a small hit on him.
“You sure look terrible, I do have to thank Amaryllis for giving me that though. Even if it’s poison,” Arundhati went for her attack, Yoshiaki quickly shoved an unexpected vassal to take the hit.
“You–! You will be put to death for treason!” Yoshiaki seems to lose his cool after realizing he has been poisoned, which he ran for the exit.
“Get back here! I’m not done with you!” Arundhati quickly went after him.
Yoshiaki ran to where he kept the Emperor in house-arrest, only to look behind him as he saw a leg slowly heading to his head.
CRASH
Yoshiaki rolled to the floor as the Emperor sat there in shock while shaking at the sight of the shogun – the one who took his throne. Both Sanzou and Amaryllis pause in their clash as they stare at the fallen shogun, only for both of them to continue their fight.
“YOUR MAJESTY! GET OUT OF HERE! NOW!” Arundhati screamed at the top of her lungs the moment she arrived.
Go-Yōzei looked at the two ninjas who were willing to fight to protect him. In that second, he saw the crest on the back of Amaryllis’ kimono that he saw in the books he read, a crest that only belongs to the Li family – one that has fallen many years ago. With that, he ran for his life.
“Oof!” Amaryllis was kicked in the stomach, the impact was so great that she was now outside on the balcony.
“You don’t have the strength to defeat me,” Sanzou tried to use the small open window of Amaryllis being unguarded – only for her to dodge his attack.
“I may not… but, at least I have wits. ARU!” Amaryllis quickly pulled a bag of spikes before throwing it to Arundhati. “Thought you should have it knowing you will be fighting against reinforcement!”
“Thanks!”
CLANG
The two fights were intense, a battle of attrition. And yet, neither wanted to pull back as they chose this path of theirs. They may have lied to themselves that they have nothing left to lose, but deep in their hearts, they worry for those that they will leave if they do die here.
“Kicho,” Morgan finally found the man they were looking around for.
“You’re awake…?” Kicho was in shock seeing Morgan awake and standing, only to see them clenching to the area they were shot at. “Why are you standing–”
“Master Kicho! News of an attack where Yoshiaki is at! Should we–?” a vassal walked in only to freeze at the sight of Morgan, alive. “You’re alive… Morgan…?”
“Yeah… I am.”
Kicho seems to be confused about who decided to attack this late in the night. And yet, he was in a dilemma where he wanted to make sure that his plan comes to fruition or not – as the cost of doing so would be that Morgan, the person who is persistent, would not come to existence. “No need to send reinforcement to the shogun, there are plenty heading there,” with that, Kicho gave his orders to the vassal.
“...very well.”
Waiting for the vassal to leave, Morgan decided to use the moment to hopefully ask Kicho questions that would make him give up his plan. “Judging by how you refuse to send help, you don’t really want the shogun to be alive, right?”
Kicho merely stayed quiet, which Morgan took as an answer.
“...what was it that you saw? Saw in the future, Kicho?”
“It’s a shame that people like you would have to grow in a world where nobody value their–”
“Kicho,” Morgan interrupted him, with their glare, “YOU may have seen one side, where it is those who toss their lives away, but you did not see how it built up to that. NOBODY in the modern world wants to take their life. We…” Morgan took a moment to think about their words, seeing how they saw some take their lives or take others, it was their duty to try and heal those same people. “No, it is a build up of trauma… and pain that pushes one to that. Everyone wants to live but not many have the resolve to do so… thus, they cave in to that comforting voice.”
“‘Comforting voice?’” Kicho was now confused on what Morgan was saying.
Morgan nodded before explaining, “It is in their mind of course, a voice so comforting and yet so self-destructive… I’ve heard it of course, when my mind is at its lowest like now… telling me to stop trying, to stop trying to live or do as nothing would matter,” Morgan’s eyes was now covered by their bangs, “a voice that may want the best for me, to save me, but in truth, I know it will lead to the opposite.”
Kicho thought about it, he doesn’t remember if he came across that voice like Morgan speaks of, but perhaps he was ignoring it.
“Those that succumb to that voice, are those who no longer have a reason to live. And yet, there are those who refuse to listen to that voice, sheer will to do so – those are the ones who continue to live. And yet, that voice will always be at the back of our minds… waiting for a moment to try and convince us, over and over again,” Morgan finished and looked at Kicho, “Tell me, Kicho, do you still think the world in 500 years… will still be like that? Even when the pain is the same as the people now, are they still suffering?”
Kicho seems to be frozen, now realizing he too caved in to that voice – unaware of its intention till now – realizing that he lied to himself. Constantly that it was for the best. He may not have the time to grieve for his sister’s death but, now, he was probably putting her name to shame. “I suppose you’ve won Morgan, convincing me that is.”
That seemed to make Morgan smile, even if it was small. “Good, I’m glad you realize that you were walking to your death–”
“Sorry for the interruption,” Yori quickly jumped down into the room.
“Yori?” Both Morgan and Kicho were confused, especially how he got here.
“I’ve overheard your conversation, and it seems like–” Yori took a good look at Kicho, “You've convinced him. Also, Morgan, judging by how you seem to have unfinished business here, you do not want to go. At least, not yet?”
“Yes…”
“Then I won’t. Knowing that the chaos that Amaryllis and Arundhati have caused, many of the soldiers are running to support that bug,” Yori turned to a window, seeing many of the soldiers running.
“Wait… what!? What do you mean Ama and Aru are–!?”
“They’ve decided to do something stupid… Ranmaru and Sasuke are after them. Hopefully, to save them if not…” Yori didn’t have to finish his sentence, as both of them understood it.
“I have to–!” Morgan tried to rush out only to stop as pain from the injury persisted, “Dammit–!”
Kicho quickly supported Morgan, now worried, “Morgan, you need to sit down–”
“I WILL NOT! NOT WHEN THOSE WHO I CARE ABOUT IS AT THE THRESHOLD OF DEATH!”
Hearing Morgan’s voice reach that volume, that seems to freeze both Kicho and Yori, seeing how desperate and worried they are for them. Not willing to lose another loved one, even if they have to walk through the pain.
“Woah! Didn’t expect ya to yell,” Motonari seems to hear everything that was discussed in the room, “Except, I don’t plan to let the Yaksha go–” Motonari seemed to freeze as he felt a familiar cold near his neck.
“Shut the hell up… Motonari,” Morgan was not in the mood to talk, especially when their loved ones were in danger.
“Wait– HUH!?” Yori looked at Morgan holding his sword with Kicho’s gun, clearly in disbelief and checked if his sword was really gone from his back – which is.
“When did–” Kicho looked at the empty holster, in shock at how fast Morgan took it despite being in pain. Anyone would have a hard time making a sudden move.
Motonari looked at the sword, impressed on how Morgan was fast enough that none of the men in the room noticed it till it was too late. Even in pain. “Must say, that was a surprise.”
“I know damn well, Motonari, you too hate Yoshiaki in your whole being,” Morgan didn’t give a single shit to the pain, adrenaline replacing the pain, “And I know, you don’t like being touched by anybody because of the betrayals that you had to endure when you were young.”
Motonari’s smirk seemed to fall when he heard that, “And what about it?”
“Let’s just say, if you go against the Ashikaga, I will help you understand that condition you have, as many in the future have that – where they can’t function properly in the eyes of society norms.”
Back where Amaryllis and Arundhati were fighting for their lives, they were injured that their clothes that they were wearing were not only stained by the blood of their enemies but theirs as well.
CLASH
“Ugh… get off of me–!” Amaryllis had Sanzou’s sword locked with hers, clearly unable to push back before kicking him straight in his crotch.
Sanzou quickly reacted as his hands went to his crotch. He didn’t expect the attack from coming, “you… You sure do play dirty like us…”
Amaryllis tosses her sword in the air for a moment to adjust her grip on her sword. In the midst of their battle out on the balcony, she twisted one of her ankles. Making her movement much slower than she wanted to continue the fight despite the pain spreading from her previous injuries that Sanzou landed on her afterwards. Both ninjas were slashed on the shoulders, legs, and arms, yet none of them were able to land a fatal hit.
Sanzou was dealing with his body being sluggish from Amaryllis’ lace poison on her blade. Pissed how he underestimated his opponent which now led him to this situation. Yet, in the moment of his recovery, he saw how Amaryllis was no longer reacting fast enough, giving him an idea. For the first time, he chuckled after years of suppressing his emotions.
“Why the hell are you laughing…?” Amaryllis was uneasy seeing such.
“I will say, thank you for showing where I need to grow–!” Sanzou threw his sword at her, which Amaryllis parried it away before seeing him coming at her barefist. She was wide open, which he needed.
“–!”
“You should have never come here in the first place.”
While inside, Arundhati was barely holding on as the numbers continued to persist. Her mask was cracked, unable to check if Amaryllis was doing fine against that Uraguchi, she had to trust that Amaryllis was fine.
“You fool! You-!” Yoshiaki was about to insult her only to use another vassal as a meat shield.
The spray of blood. It infuriates Arundhati further knowing that Yoshiaki will continue to use others to save his pathetic life, “Why can’t you seem to fight me!? You sure do talk a lot while using others to take YOUR HITS!”
“I am the emperor now! You listen to me you peasant! Only I-”
“YOU TOOK THE THRONE AND PLUNGE THIS WORLD INTO MORE CHAOS! YOU ARE NO EMPEROR OF MINE NOR WILL I BOW TO SUCH A COWARD WHO CANNOT FIGHT HIS OWN WAR!”
Arundhati continued to get closer to him even despite the pain. Swinging her sword to parry any of the vassals that stood in her path before cutting them down quickly. Even with the spikes, it already went dull from many stepping on it, leaving her with no crowd control.
“Shit…” Arundhati looked at herself now surrounded by all sides.
Outside once more, Amaryllis’ sword was long forgotten as it stood at the ground below. With its wielder now at the mercy of her opponent.
Sanzou held Amaryllis by her kimono, lifting her in the air. “Uggh….” Sanzou was bleeding from his shoulder, with his blood dropping on the wood. Both of them stared at each other in the eyes, hatred was what filled each other’s eyes. “Go to hell you piece of shit.”
With that, Sanzou tosses her out of the balcony – for Amaryllis to fall to her death. Arundhati screamed with her heart when she saw it. She tried to reach Amaryllis only for her path to be blocked off by more Ashikaga vassals. Amaryllis closed her eyes, embracing the inevitable with the cold air. Just like how she fell into that freezing water that was the start of her misery.
Masterlist
AN: Hopefully I gave everyone justice here 👍
AND TWO MORE DAYS TILL EIEN DROPS (Apple is gonna be a piece of shit, I KNOW IT)
A little bit of a short chapter this time, but I've been busy and haven't had time to write but got some ideas out. The next chapter will be more interesting 😛
Keiji, with his spear in hand, sprints through the forest after Yori. He came close a few times, but never quite reached him. Kenshin got lost somewhere behind, no telling just how far behind because Keiji accidentally tripped him with his spear unknowingly some time ago. He’s really in for it once he catches up, if he ever does….
“Got you now!”
Keiji lunges his spear with a confident grin before he’s left disappointed once again. Yori leapt up just in time to avoid the possible impalement, sliding against the ground on his knee as he grabs a kunai in both hands.
“You’re supposed to be aiming for the flag! I’m serving your pig for dinner this week!”
Keiji gasps, frowning as he gets into a fighting stance.
“You wouldn’t”
“I would.”
Thus, they resume their battle. The fight is quick paced, each man nearly a blur as they go blow for blow. Keiji swings his long spear down, blocked by Yori’s blades as engage in a pushing duel now. Keiji is strong, very evidently so, as he’s currency winning, forcing Yori down to a lunge as he wears a smug smile.
“Ready to give up?”
Yori grits his teeth, pushing up against Keiji’s spear as a sweat breaks from his forehead. Suddenly, an idea pops up in his head. An awful idea. But… that was for desperate times of need, and this technically counted as a desperate time in need, right? RIGHT? Yori argues internally with himself for a few moments, before ultimately deciding that this would be the time.
“What the-” Keiji only has a mere second to question Yori’s actions. He intentionally slides down to his bottom and swings his leg up, kicking poor Keiji straight into a man’s dignity.
It was at that exact moment that Kenshin had appeared, gasping with widened eyes. “You did not-”
Yori quickly moves out of the way as Keiji falls to his knees and grips his spear tightly while the other holds between his legs. takes this opportunity to grab his flag, grinning proudly as he holds it up while Keiji remains in pain, unconcerned about him.
“Yay! I got it!”
“Keiji!” Another voice shouted. Yori looks towards it curiously, only to find Kanetsugu as his face was a mix of horror and shock. He suddenly turns, pointing an accusing finger towards Yori. “You there, Date ninja. How dare you pull such a cowardly move!”
Yori blinks, Keiji continuing to groan in pain below him. There was another rustle amongst the bushes, another warlord breaking through. Masamune observes the scene ahead of him, still damp from the water as he narrowed his singular eye.
“What’s going on here?”
Everyone except Keiji turned to Masamune, Kenshin unsheathing his sword and takes an eager step, about to attack before Kanetsugu’s own sword unsheathes as he glares at Masamune.
“Lord Kenshin, I’d like to personally settle this.”
“What? No, I’ll kill him first.” Kenshin looks sternly at Kanetsugu, his irritation rising.
“I’ll ask for nothing else. That Date ninja has disgraced a warlord of his honor, it’s only befitting that his lord is stripped from his as well.”
Masamune interrupts. “Not that I’m complaining about a fight, but what did my ninja do to get you all riled up?”
Kanetsugu gestures his chin towards Keiji, on the ground as his hands still hold between his legs.
Masamune flinches, his eye twitching as his neck cranking towards Yori, who was whistling nervously. “Yori, just what the hell did you do?”
“Ummmmmmmmmm…. Well, it seems like you’re all having fun so I’m just gonna…” He backs up slowly, turning to sprint away as Kenshin immediately chases after him.
“You’re not going anywhere!”
Masamune’s one eye twitches. “Yori you-” He groans in irritation before his left eye spotted a glimmer of light, quickly raising his sword blocking Kanetsugu’s.
Meanwhile, Yukimura and Ryuu met back up with Ieyasu, Amaryllis, and Mitsunari again. They were busy scouting who was being eliminated and who was left over so they could prepare for whoever was left.
“So far, lord Hideyoshi, Keiji, Shingen, Ranmaru, Sasuke, and Ellara are all out.” Ryuu lists the names out, counting on his fingers as he does so. “The only teams who have nobody eliminated so far is us and Lord Nobunaga’s.”
Yukimura lets out a groan, shaking his head as he lifts his hands onto his hips in annoyance. “Lord Shingen…. I told him his weakness for women would betray him someday.”
Ieyasu crosses his arms, speaking calmly. “That just means we have less competition to worry about. Is there anyone we can deem as a threat right off? Minus Kenshin, that is.”
“Lord Kenshin is taking this far too serious if you ask me…” Yukimura wears a weary expression.
“Hmm…” Amaryllis thinks. “I’m not sure we can rule anyone out just yet, they’re all uniquely dangerous in their own ways, so it’ll be hard to even form a counter to a few.”
“If I may,” Mitsunari interrupts politely. “We seem to be the only group fully together and in greater numbers. The chances of us running into another will still be in our advantage, so we can easily use numbers to overwhelm them.”
Everyone nods. Ryuu speaks up. “Yeah. Yeah, that definitely seems to be the case. I think it’s safe to say that we’ll be-”
“DO YOU EVER GET TIRED?!”
Suddenly, he was interrupted by a swift figure running in between the group, yelling at the same time. Almost right after, was another figure, this time holding a sword out. Everyone blinks, eyes widened with shock at what just happened.
Somewhere in the forest, Tsumeko sits on top of a boulder, stroking off some leaves off a lock of her soft, navy blue hair. She lets out a small sigh, bored with anticipation until soft footsteps caught her attention. “Hm?”
“My, what to do with you out here all alone? Don’t tell me your group abandoned you here.” Mitsuhide wears his usual sly grin, approaching from the shadows as he keeps his distance. Tsumeko shakes her head, quickly fixing her face to vulnerable.
“I’m afraid they did... I sprained my ankle tripping on a root and they left me after realizing I wasn’t of any use to them.” She frowns, lifting her fist to her mouth as she looks at him with soft eyes.
“Quite an unfortunate situation, but I’m afraid you’ll have to try better than that to fool me, my dear.” Mitsuhide shakes his head, easily seeing through her. Tsumeko laughs, wiping away a fake tear.
“I should’ve known better. No, the others went off to chase Masahiro.” She grins, shifting on the boulder. “And I don’t suppose you’re here to steal my flag, are you?”
Mitsuhide nods causally, still keeping his distance. “You’re correct. Though it would be much easier if you surrender yourself.”
“Unfortunately, I can’t do that.” She shrugs with a playful smile. “I can’t let my team down for the benefit of my lover. How disappointed they would be in me.”
“AndI suppose it’s my turn to have known better. I sometimes forget how competitive you are.Though I must say… If you stay there any longer, you’ll be bitten by that snake.” He points his finger to a snake slithering on the boulder she was on.
“The what-” Tsumeko glances down, eyes widening as she yelps. She jumps off, only to truthfully trip on a tree root this time. But before she could hit the ground, Mitsuhide was quickly there to hold her up, preventing her from actually twisting her ankle.
“WAH- Mitsuhide?” She widens her eyes, blinking in surprise while looking up at him as her body presses against his chest. He straightens her up, the snake slithering away as he does a quick scan of her body to make sure she wasn’t injured. Thankfully, she didn’t seem to be - only startled.
“And here I thought you’d be used to snakes by now because of me.” Mitsuhide chuckles, teasing her as the snake slithers off harmlessly. He knew it never posed a real danger of being venomous, as he was familiar with the types in the area. Suddenly, his grin widens, lifting a hand up to reveal the flag he pulled off her arm.
Tsumeko stares at him, shocked he pulled her flag off as she flinches. She stares for a few quick moments before she lifts her hand up, showing the flag she took off his arm as well. They both stare at each other’s flags, letting out a shared light laugh at the ironic situation.
