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roscgcld · 3 years

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RYOMEN SUKUNA || my little flower

anime: jujutsu kaisen

characters: ryomen sukuna

pronouns: she/her

notes: historical!sukuna x reader, slightly sexual (no smexy time involved lol - maybe another day ;)), quite fluffy towards the end

also - I’ve been reading so many sukuna hcs and imagines of him when he’s in his prime or during the historical era - so like excuse me as I politely simp for the man that is ryomen sukuna >< thank you

references: https://www.japanese-wiki-corpus.org/literature/Ryomen-sukuna.html

Sukuna leans back into the futon with a tired sigh, two of his arms folded behind his head while the other two held you against him securely. His ruby red eyes glanced away from the ceiling to look down at the woman curled up in his embrace, sleeping peacefully against him whilst her own soft arms were wrapped around his muscular torso. He admired your peaceful features at first, but soon his eyes started to travel down your delicate neck and cleavage, your soft skin marked by dark splotches where he had marked you up for the world to see.

Just the sight of the hickeys and bite marks caused Sukuna to smirk once more, the feeling of pride traveling through him at the sight of the hickeys, both new and old, marring your skin. It was a sight he would never get bored of seeing, since it was a constant reminder to you that you were his and no one else’s.

Many would question just how did this happen - how did a simple human manage to ‘tame’ the infamous Sukuna - the King of Curses, who spreads chaos and bloodshed in his wake? How did you, a mere human woman who looked far too kind hearted and warm, ended up with such a fearsome man?

Well, how this came to be was actually a cute story.

You grew up in a small village in Hida province, where many cities treated Sukuna as their patron deity. He was what people would call quite a cold ruler - one who would not hesitate to bring terror and bloodshed down on a town that had angered him. But at the same time, he was quite the generous man as well. He protects the people of the Hida and Mino Provinces, and many towns had florish and grow under his careful guidance.

Your town was one of the may towns that worshipped the Cursed Spirit, preparing offerings on special celebrations and always paying your respects whenever you go up to the ichinomiya on the weekends with your parents. It was because of one of these special celebrations that drew Sukusa to you.

It was one of the many days where offerings were given to him by townspeople, in hopes that they will still continue to get some form of protection from the unknown. He was their patron deity, after all. Even though many times he does all the things he does for his own benefit, it was nice to know that there are some who are gullible enough to think he does it for them. But he it’s one to complain - many of the offerings are things he does not mind indulging in. The best crops from the harvest, women for his ever growing harem, beautifully crafted weapons and clothes are the few he can keep in mind

Many times, he does not care to go through the offerings himself - Uraume goes through all of them and then gives him a general overview of everything. However, as he was walking past one of the neat piles of offerings, a particular garment box caught his eye; causing him to pause before he unwraps it curiously.

Sitting inside the carefully wrapped package was a beautiful dark blue kinomo made of the finest silk, the fabric so smooth that it almost felt like water slipping through his fingers. Packed along with the kinomo was a beautifully crafted haori, a simple yet beautiful crane woven into the haori in white, the details done so carefully that when worn, the crane moves with the shifting of the fabric. The packet also came with a matching hakama made from the luxurious fabric, and a beautiful kaku obi made from navy blue, white and silver carefully weaved together into in a beautiful talent.

It was because of the level of craftsman ship that had Sukuna curious - who was the mastermind of something so beautiful?

He had went to the town where the garment was from and after some digging about, discovered about you. A daughter to a family of tailors, you were quite well known for your talents in embroidery and your mastery of the loom. Having gotten such talents, you crafted many beautiful pieces, and one of them was gifted to Sukuna himself recently.

When he first saw you, he was struck by your beauty; how you had such a warm smile no matter who you were referring to. How your movements were graceful yet swift, your needle and threat embroidering the most beautiful depections of animals and flowers without a single mistake. How your voice was so sweet and calming that he can physically feel the tension from his body starting to unwind ever so slightly. If he could, he’d love to listen to your voice forever - which was what he intended to do.

The first time you two met was actually in the dead of the night; you had stayed up later then usual, carefully embroidering a water lily onto a long fabric for a personal tapestry you wanted to hang in your room. A candle was burning by your work table, casting the engawa of your home in a soft but comforting glow; enough for you to do your work without straining too much. You were so fucsed on your work that you didn’t notice how the flames of your candle started to flicker in the glass holder; even though there was the air was still. Your eyes didn’t trail up from your tapestry even as a large figure quietly entered the hallway you were in; only pausing when you felt a huge presence looming over you.

Your bright eyes flickered upwards and met with four pairs of ruby red ones staring right back at you; all four of them shining in amusement. “You are quite oblivious, little one.” Sukuna hummed out with a soft grin, to which you just gave him a confused look as you tilted your head ever so slightly. “How did you get into my house?” You asked quietly, not even acknowledging how the man before you looked very different from what you’re used to; from the four muscular arms sprouting out from underneath the dark blue haori, the very same one that you had made for him. to the extra pair of eyes he sported on his face. Or how the top of his head was clearly brushing against the simple weed roofing of your family home.

“Is that really the first thing you’re going to ask, little one?”

From that day onwards, things definitely went a lot smoother then Sukuna could have imagined. At first the lack of reaction from you confused him, but he found it quite amusing nonetheless. Even after finding out that he was the same deity that you had heard stories of since you were in diapers, you acted no differently around him. You still talked and laughed with him like he was any other human. which for some reason made his heart feel warm and fuzzy. It makes him want to gather you up in his arms, protecting you from the horrors of the world.

The two of you will continue to meet up in the night like secret lovers; many nights he’d just lean against one of the pillars of your family home, with you perched in his lap as you work on different projects every night; talking about things that happen that day, or the funny stories that the townsfolk would share with you whenever they drop by to mend and purchase clothes, or when they dropped off freshly dyed fabrics. During a few of these nights Sukuna had suggested if you can help him mend a few of his kimonos, which you agreed to without hesitation. Some days you’d ever create new kimonos for him as well, which he would wear quite proudly.

Soon these innocent nights of talking and laughter, him watching you do your work under the moonlight, to having you gasping and crying out for him as he took you over and over again in his grand bedroom; watching quite gleefully as he corrupted your innocence, ruining you for any other man. Ever since the first night you two shared in his bed, he knew that there was no turning back - there was no one else for him but you.

And there was no way he was going to let some puny human even try to get in between the both of you.

With that he whisked you away from the somewhat mundane and boring life in your town, making you his entire world. He showered you with the finest gifts and opened the more human side of him to you; one that he thought he had lost the moment he had decided to go down the path he did. But you pulled these emotions out from him with ease, making him realise that he can chase all the power he want till the end of time and that will never satisfy him completely.

All he needed was you, and everything feels right in the world.

“I’ve lost you again, haven’t I?”

Sukuna’s eyes snapped towards the direction of your sleepy voice, watching how you gave him the most beautiful yet sleepy smile as you carefully shifted your body so it was pressed against his. He marveled how your naked bodies clicked together seamlessly, even with the clear size difference between the two of you. “You will always have my attention, flower.”

The sound of the simple nickname cause a small smile tug against the corner of your lips, remembering how that nickname came about. You have always love studying flowers, since you enjoyed embroidering different sorts of flora and fauna onto different tapestries that now adorned the walls of the home you two share. You had once told him about your love of flowers, and because of that, you had came home one day to the courtyard in your shared home turned into your private garden; with flowers from all across the country planted at every nook and cranny.

When you had asked Sukuna about it, he just shrugs and gave you an indulge smile - as if asking were you really shocked by his gift to you. When he realised just how deep your love for nature was, he had started to call you ‘his flower’, and the name has stuck since then. “What a sweet talker.”

A chuckle rumbled deep within his chest as one of his hands found purchase along your back, starting to massage what he was sure were your sore muscles; watching in satisfaction as you melted more into his chest. “Only for you.” He admitted quietly, to which you just gave him a loving smile as you rest your cheek against his chest once more; a soft finger started to trace along the tattoos on his skin. This action caused him to relax further into the futon, sighing softly in content. “Sukuna? Can we take a bath?”

“I’m lazy.” Sukuna stated with a soft groan as he glanced down at you once more, only to be met by the soft pout that you just know gets him to give in. This caused him to scowl as he cupped your face in one of his hands, gently squishing your cheeks between his fingers as he pushes himself up into a seated position. “You little minx.” He growls playfully whilst you just gave him a teasing smile, straddling his lap with your legs on either side of his whilst one of your hands wrapped around his wrist; causing him to loosen his grip on you whilst letting out a loud sigh. “How annoying.”

His arms suddenly wrapped around you before he got up from the comfort of the warm futon, causing you to giggle as you wrap your arms around his neck. “Let’s go, flower.” He sighs dramatically before he walked you both to the bathroom, causing you to perk up before you lean over to press a loving kiss against his cheek; ignoring his soft eyeroll at your act of affection. As if he didn’t enjoy it whenever you do so. “I love you.”

“Of course you do.” He teases before he started to walk you two towards the bathroom, one of his hands skimming down to the small of your pack where a beautiful black tattoo rested against your soft skin; a tattoo that looks similar to the black lines that adorned his own skin. “You’re mine, after all.” He stated simply, causing you to roll your eyes at him playfully as he carefully sat you down on the wooden steps leading to the opening of the ofuro; watching as Sukuna started to prepare the bath for the both of you. “Wouldn’t it kill for you to just be a little nicer to me?”

Your teasing tone clearly didn’t win any points with him, who narrowed his eyes at you and before you know it you were suddenly pinned down against the wooden steps. A soft giggle left your lips at the narrowed eyes that stared back at you, causing Sukuna to scowl softly at your reaction. “Now you’re just asking for it, flower.” He growled before diving down to meet your lips in a passionate kiss; not being able to mask his smile at the sound of your soft laughter just as you wrapped your arms around him once more.

"My little flower..”

#jujutsu kaisen #jujutsu kaisen imagines #jjk #jujutsu kaisen imagine #jjk x reader #jujutsu kaisen x reader #ryomen sukuna #sukuna #jjk sukuna #sukuna x y/n #ryomen sukuna x reader #ryomen sukuna imagine #ryomen sukuna imagines #sukuna x reader

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ariadnekurosaki · 4 years

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Byakuya’s Blessing

Prompt: Day 14, Awkward

Pairing: Kuchiki Rukia/Kurosaki Ichigo

Rating: G (and also F for Fluff)

Read on AO3.

Byakuya’s Blessing

“You’ll be fine.”

“No, I won’t. Your brother’s going to come after me with his bankai and when I defend myself, we’ll destroy your manor and then he’ll never let me date you,” Ichigo complained.

“Court,” Rukia corrected, and Ichigo waved a hand at her.

“Yeah, yeah. Court, I got it.” Ichigo dropped a kiss on Rukia’s forehead. “Guess it’s time, then.” He stepped past her toward the door to Byakuya’s office and knocked on the wooden frame. At a sound from beyond the shoji screen, he pushed the door open and stepped inside. The door slid shut behind him.

Byakuya was completing paperwork. As usual, he looked calm – stoic, even – and didn’t have a hair out of place. Ichigo resisted the urge to smooth down the front of the navy blue haori he wore. For a conversation this important, he’d dressed in a black kimono and hakama, with the haori on top. There wasn’t much that Ichigo could do to fix his hair, but he’d combed it as best he could.

At a gesture from Byakuya, Ichigo sat in seiza and waited for the other man to finish writing. He seemed in no hurry, and after a time Ichigo found his fingers clutching at the soft fabric of his hakama. He forcibly relaxed them and subtly flexed his feet, which were already growing uncomfortable.

Finally, Byakuya looked up. “Kurosaki Ichigo. Why are you in my office?”

Ichigo bowed slightly. “Kuchiki-sama,” he said.

Byakuya’s eyes widened slightly at the honorific and he set his calligraphy brush down, giving Ichigo his full attention.

“I hold your sister in very high esteem.”

“As you should. She is a lieutenant of the Gotei and will, in time, be a captain,” Byakuya agreed calmly.

Ichigo frowned at him. “Those things are both true, but they aren’t the only reasons. She is brave and compassionate as well, and kind.” At Byakuya’s raised eyebrow, he added, “She is also a beautiful woman.”

“Hn. And you made an appointment just to tell me this?” Byakuya asked. He studied Ichigo quietly.

“In part,” Ichigo admitted. “I’ve come to ask for your blessing to court Rukia.” His hands kneaded the fabric of his hakama again, but he stilled them when the movement attracted Byakuya’s attention.

“But not my permission,” Byakuya guessed.

Ichigo said quietly, “As you said, she is a lieutenant and will be a captain someday. She wouldn’t thank me for asking for your permission. But your approval matters to her.” He flexed his feet again. “So, it matters to me, too.”

“And your intentions toward my sister?”

Ichigo actually laughed a little before he managed to stifle it. “I took on the entire Seireitei, Aizen, and the Quincy king to keep Rukia safe and happy. I intend to marry her if she’ll let me.” It was sappy, but he added, “Rukia is my light.”

“Hn. You have my blessing, Kurosaki Ichigo.” Before Ichigo could smile, Byakuya held up a hand and added, “But there is the matter of your residence.”

Oh, that, Ichigo thought, and slid a sheaf of folded papers from within his haori. “Taken care of.” He held the papers out to Byakuya, who took them with a touch of suspicion in his eyes and read them over.

“…You might have started with this,” Byakuya said dryly. The papers, otherwise innocuous-looking, declared Ichigo head of a branch of the Shiba Clan. The second set indicated that he was a member of the Gotei 13 and a seated officer in Squad Five.

“Titles and positions have never meant much to me.” Ichigo shrugged. When Byakuya frowned at him, he hastened to add, “I know that it’s an honor. It is. But I accepted because it allows me to stay here with Rukia.”

Byakuya handed the papers back to him. “When did you become a man, Kurosaki Ichigo?” he asked.

A scowl on his face, Ichigo grumbled, “I’m the same person I always was.”

“Hn. Very well. As I said, you have my blessing.” Byakuya rose and Ichigo scrambled up with him and tried to surreptitiously shake the numb feeling from his legs.

“I imagine you want to tell Rukia.” Byakuya gestured, and they walked to the shoji screen door together. Byakuya slid it open.

Rukia tumbled forward through the doorway and fell on her face before either her brother or Ichigo could catch her. She scrambled up and bowed, cheeks flushed red. “Nii-sama!”

Her brother raised an eyebrow and his lips quirked ever so slightly. “Rukia. Were you listening at the doorway to my office?”

Her cheeks burned bright red and Rukia bowed again. “Of course not, I was merely coming to see you and lost my balance!”

The lie was an obvious one, but Byakuya didn’t comment on it. “How fortuitous,” he said instead. “I was just about to invite Kurosaki Ichigo for tea. Perhaps you’ll join us?”

“Y-yes of course, Nii-sama,” Rukia stammered. She looked at Ichigo meaningfully, and he smiled down at her, amber eyes soft as they looked into hers. Rukia smiled back, and Ichigo’s hands found hers. They lost themselves in one another for a long moment and drifted together, lips closing in.

And then Byakuya pointedly cleared his throat. “We will take tea in the dining room,” he said when the couple sprang backward – although his eyes glanced over their still-joined hands.

“Yes, Nii-sama,” Rukia repeated. She shared an embarrassed look with Ichigo.

As Byakuya led the way to the dining room in the Kuchiki manor, Ichigo slid Rukia’s hand into the crook of his arm and they trailed along behind.

Byakuya privately thought that he wasn’t looking forward to negotiating with Kuukaku. But then he glanced back and looked at the way his sister practically glowed as she walked next to Ichigo, and thought, It will be worth it to see her smile like that for the next thousand years.

And so, he sat down to prepare tea for his sister and his future brother-in-law with a satisfied heart.

#ichiruki #ichirukimonth #irmonth2020 #bleach fanfiction #deathberry family

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undercoverwizardninjaturtle · 5 years

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Unbreakable (2019)

Summary: My name is Miyamoto Leonardo, I grew up in a small Japanese village with my brothers Usagi, and Michelangelo under the watchful eye of our father. But now I am told I have two other brothers out there, and as the oldest, its up to me to find them and reunite our family. But will our birth father’s past come back to haunt us? (originally written in 2013)

Characters: Leonardo, Mikey, Usagi,

Word Count: 4,398

Pairing: None

Genre: Family, Hurt/Comfort, Adventure, Alternate Universe, Feudal Japan

Fandom: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles/ Usagi Yojimbo

a/n I originally wrote this on my Fanfiction account in 2013, I wanted to complete the series but I was bothered by all the mistakes i made. So I’m planning a massive rewrite, and I figured this is a good place to see if its even worth my time

________________________________________________________________

The Warriors Sword

A Quick, Unforgiving Blade

His Soul, It Reflects

For him, that was the only way to live his life. Stuck to his nerves like primal instinct. As simple to him as breathing or blinking, or wiping a tear from his brother’s face. Heavier than the long katana’s hanging from his waist, dragging through the dirt. But that weight was nothing compared to the small bundle on his shell, his heaviest burden. Anytime his body came close to breaking, or falling apart, a small sniffle or whine from the bundle would drive him further. Dragging against his young body, as though to break him and his resolve.

He had to get the baby somewhere safe.

But where that was, the child knew not. Spirts, he didn’t even know where he was. He couldn’t remember where he was escaping from. He tried again to remember life, life before walking…. but that was all he knew….

Spirits….

He didn’t even know his name

The mere thought made his head ache further. Even more then the child thought possible. His steps stumbling for a moment, as his hand came up as quickly as the ground, the sharp stones cutting into his skin. Despite his blurry vision, he could see his blood scattered on the grass. What happened to him?

Another headache, he squeezed his eyes shut his body screaming as it always had for any sort of relief, it begged for cool shade, his throat begged for water and his stomached clawed for food. Heat, Hunger, Thirst, even his problems had names, so it only made sense that he and the baby had a name, everything had a name….

The child regained his balance on shaky legs. All he knew was that he couldn’t stop…. not for himself…. He had to protect baby…. he had to keep going….despite the pain, despite the burning heat that seemed to come from that yellow sphere in the ‘sky’…he couldn’t stop. He glanced oer his shoudler at the bundle on his back, a small green baby wrapped in a orange blanket.The baby was still sleeping, unbothered by the things trying to break him….but he kept going forward

His vision was growing darker with every step, but he caught sight of something in the distance on the other side of a wide river and a bridge. Something inside of him made him stop for a moment. He was sure he saw a roof, a bunch of houses…was it a home? A bunch of homes? Were there people there? Even though the thought should have given his exhausted body some sort of comfort he felt his heart beat faster in his chest…something about that idea scared him….

But people were good.

He wasn’t’ sure where that thought had come from…but it felt true. People were good. People meant help.

Hopefully

A small figure appeared between the houses, obscured by the shadows and the child’s own exhausted eyes. He had two strange oblong things sticking out of the top of his head but they were the same size. The other child was yelling something, perhaps to the other people. But he was running towards them crossing the bridge. When he came closer the Child could see the oblong things on his head were long ears, and his fur was pure white. Wearing some blue robe, but his vision failed him again, his knees hitting the ground. Every part of his body cried out for salvation and mercy from its pain. Pain no child should endure. The long eared child was close to him now. Close enough for his soft furred hand to touch his arm, the child still had trouble making out his face or any features. The rabbit was saying something, but he couldn’t understand him, but he blamed that on his exhaustion . His body would no longer be denied rest.

The child could just make out others following the track the long eared boy had come, he reached behind him and pulled the bundle off his shell. His body protested the movement, but held the baby close to his chest…his eyes squeezed shut as he fell to his side. HE could just hear the long earned child cry out in surprise, small hands gripping his torn clothing and shaking him in attempts to wake him up Spirits Leo just wanted to sleep but the world couldn’t even give him that.

Wait.

Against his fading mind, he repeated the word back to him. Leo... He knew that name…that was HIS name…. despite himself, despite the darkness taking over him, he repeated the word. The name

Leonardo.

Unbreakable

Chapter 1

Ushinawareta

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The Warriors Sword

A Quick, Unforgiving Blade

His Soul, It Reflects

Leonardo had always considered it a phenomenon of life that one neve realizes how well one slept unless it was interrupted. Then, of course, you find yourself regretting waking up in the first place. And slept well he had, his toned arms folded over his chest comfortable with a familiar pair of hilts resting against his shoulder. He could feel a few irritants against his skin, stuck in the confides of his clothing but the action required him to move, or initiate activity. Which, in his current sleep state, he was unwilling to do so.

A soft hand took his shoulder, “Ani, do you wish to wake up yet?”

Nope. He didn’t bother to verbalize his statement, rather pulled his shoulder free of the kind gesture. Readjusting himself to lean on his side. There was a tiresome sigh, like a parent dealing with a disgruntled child which was a humorous thought in itself. Especially since Leonardo hadn’t considered himself a child, or been one, in many years. The thought made his lips twitch, shifting his body around again to make himself comfortable. Spirits what was with his futon anyway? All angled strangely…. … and where was that hot breeze was coming from. Lulling against his face every few moments, his waved his hand limply to deter air.

Why was there a breeze anyway? The door shouldn’t be open anyway, it hadn’t been that hot. Atleast not for breeze of this intensity. Didn’t really feel like air…more like…. breath? But who was breathing on him…and why was his futon angled. Somehow the situation was achingly familiar. IT was almost like the time he had fallen asleep in the stable.

OH spirits.

He was sleeping in the stable again.

An irritated and angry groan made its way out up his throat and through his lips. Spirits how could he do something so childish?! He reprimanded himself lightly. It would explain why he had so much straw scratching his neck, expect for the time when Mikey filled the house with straw. And judging by that continuous breath, he was in a horse’s stall. Normally the thought would cause anyone to leap up in panic to make sure they hadn’t accidentally soiled their clothes with horse…... excrement’s. Except that, as he was waking up, he remembered vaguely cleaning the stable himself. A soft muzzle touched his cheek, encouraging him to finally open his eyes, his vision filled with a black muzzle. The beautiful horse itself was dark brown with a black mane and tail. What the horse lacked in intricate coat, it more than made up for in well-bred muscles and speed. His hand coming up to gently catch the horses chin, the horse moved his head around to lip at his palm, “Apologies for intruding your bed Kaze.” He said with a smile and a yawn.

A hand suddenly shoved hard on his shoulder, a body following. Instinct sent Leo’s hand up to slap the hand off himself but not in time to stop himself from falling straight on the pile of hay. Adrenaline cleared his yes of sleep but filled it with yellow straw. He found himself once against being grateful that hay was clean,

But he also found that someone was laying right on top of his side.

More than alarmed, he was annoyed. His fingers tapping on the ground as he managed a sigh and a smile despite the straw currently poking him in the eye, “Hey Usagi.” He could just imagine Usagi grinning at him. Though often his adopted brother was a serious samurai who chastised younger Shugyōsha for childishness, was capable of the same.

“Hello Ani. How was your nap?”

“It was fine...till now.’ He added with a grumble. With a chuckle, the weight on him disappeared. Allowing Leonardo, the freedom to sit up again. He had a few choice words for this brother till a white furred hand was held out to him. Leo took a moment to blink at Usagi, though villagers often called him and Usagi twins, their appearances couldn’t be any more different. Where they both supported a thin stature with well-earned muscles, they were matched in height. Though Leonardo’s shell often gave him the appearance of being thicker than he was. Where Usagi’s body was covered in soft short white fur, Leonardo’s was covered in green skin. In the same way that Leo’s shell made him look thicker, Usagi’s’ long white ears made him look taller, even if they were tied back with blue cloth. The rest of Usagi’s body was dressed in a blue kimono tucked into back hakamas. On each side of Usagi’s breast there was a seen emblem of a large black spot with three more around the top ring. A katana hung from his black obi with a wazikashi by its side. Even though the Hand Leo took was the rough and callused hand of a warrior his pink eyes were the gentle eyes of a brother who cared for others. Leo pulled himself to his feet, “Thank you, “Leo said, His irritation at his brother’s rudeness diminished when he glanced towards the stable door, when he had first entered the stable, the sun had just come over the horizon but now it looked like it was fully in the sky, “Spirits, how long was I asleep?”

“A while, you finished your work around the stables, rode Kaze for a bit. You said you were going to brush him down. I checked on you’re a while ago but you were sound asleep. I thought it best to let you be, since you haven’t been doing so lately”

While he could appreciate Usagi’s’ intentions, not including being pinned to the ground. But found himself more forgiving when his brother held out a bamboo water holder out to him. Cursing his hay dry throat, he took it and a small sip. Usagi was one of the few people he knew capable of being both rotten and thoughtful. But he paused long enough to give Usagi a weak smile.

But what Usagi had said made sense, it helped that he and his brother thought so much alike. And honestly Leo always knew when Usagi, Mikey or Dorinbo didn’t sleep well. Especially Mikey since the child had a bad habit of flailing and thrashing around whenever he had a bad dream. More often than none, it usually needed up with the poor family members, victims, getting bruised ribs. But usually the thrashing ended when one of them, the one with the most bruises in the end, manages to get to the child and calm him down.

For such a sweet child, Mikey really knew how accidentally hurt people

He took one more small sip to clear his throat before handing it back to Usagi. Taking an amount longer to take up his katana’s from the straw, “Come brother, it’s time to get Mikey.”

“You realize you’re the only one who picks up their youngling from school.”

“That’s because we’re very good brothers……and because Mikey does questionable things when he’s left alone for too long.” He heard Usagi laugh as he followed his steps. The two exiting the barn. The hot yellow sun burning his eyes for a moment before adjusting.

Though he lived in a land where small villages were common, Leo was entirely sure there was no home like Murakami. A simple village situated on a gentle sloping hill, with bunched houses, the roofs covered in large temperature elating stones. Villagers in kimonos walking past. Some coming fresh from the fields by the village and others carry other goods. There were a few walking simply to enjoy the company of another person. Leo could just see the house he shared with his family located on the slope of the hill. Their laundry hanging on parallel sticks made him smile. His favorite thing to do was to clean his family’s clothes and watch the wide river roll by. the gentle mountains as a background, then playing the shamisen as the gentle sun dried their clothes….

Leo glanced up the ladder styled watchtower, he could barely see the sentry wave at him that he made sure to return. Normally the sentry duties were rotated between samurai for week long shifts but even looking at the precarious tall tower made him shiver, averting his eyes down to his own clothing. Picking the bits of straw from his blue kimono and darker hakama’s. He felt Usagi rub his shoulder lightly, somehow Usagi could always tell what he was feeling without words. A gift Leonardo shared with his brother, “You know, “Usagi started gently, “You’re not the only one whose been having trouble sleeping lately.”

A tired sigh escaped the kame, “Hai.” He agreed His fingers caught the last piece of straw as he sighed, “Yeah.”

“It pains me to see one so young tormented as he is. I Heard father talking to Mikey about his dreams, but he never remembers them. He just wakes up thrashing around…… but for a child as creative as him, it’s not hard to think he’s imagination would give him things to worry about. Even for a optimistic child like him.” Pink eyes glanced to him, “After all, when you were his age you had nightmares every night.”

“Not about the same things though.” Leo reminded,

Usagi’s pause said it all, the only sound for a few moments was the crunch of ground under their sandals as they crossed the small town square. Lacking vendors, the longer building to their right marked the town meeting hall. Leo always found strange comfort whenever that building was empty, it meant there was peace.

Usagi started again “We’ve trained together for years’ side by side as brothers. But I don’t’ think Mikey ever realized what that meant….”

“He’s growing up, I think he’s realizing what it means to be a samurai. What’s expected of us. We might be from a small village but we’re still retainers, if a conflict broke out we would be called to war. We could be gone for a very long time…and maybe not come back at all.” Leo couldn’t help the sigh. He didn’t remember the walk to the school house taking this long before, “I remember when Father was called off while we were in class.” How old had they been at the time? Ten? He and Usagi had been chasing each other back to the house laughing. To come home and see Daiki sitting there, babysitting Mikey had been enough to send terror through his whole body. The realization that there was only one reason there father wasn’t there…..and the fact they might never see him again….followed by aching relief a few days later when Dorinbo dispelled their fears and came home to their arms…

The look Usagi was giving him was as kind as any he had been given over the years. Over the years those pink eyes had offered him so much comfort and laughter, a friendship and brother unmatched by any other. Even their fights over the years had only lasted only a little bit at a time. The longest started at breakfast and was over by lunch.

Even so, Leonardo couldn’t bring himself to look his brother in the eye. Before Usagi could call him out on it, the small well-loved building came into view, marking the villages little school. A one room building that held some of Leo’s most mundane memories mostly focused around a large pig in greasy kimono lecturing for hours on end on the importance of…...something….. not that Leo was a bad student…

Ok, in a classroom setting, he was an awful student.

But he and Usagi had been exceptional Shugyōsha

It had helped that Dorinbo had been there teacher, emphasizing the importance of Bushido, but equally on supporting one another. Passing on the skills he had learned from his own master years ago. Somehow able to support Leonardo’s desire to wield two blades at once and Usagi’s single sword style. And the reverse, ensuring they’d be ready to unique fighting challenges.

There was a small ringing bell and the schoolhouse door was pushed open. Filling the area with young children in bright kimonos running for freedom laughing and talking with one another. A few of them waved wildly at Leo and Usagi. Leo made sure to wave back with a small chuckle. He was sure at one point he and Usagi had babysit everyone in the village. Course the one Leo kept in his heart left the building last.

A young nine year old wearing a short bright orange kimono and white hakama’s. His light blue eyes circled by a short orange eye mask covered in faded charcoal drawings of flowers and other unidentifiable interest. A smile that only added to the vibrant bright blue of his eyes filled his face,” LEOUSAGILEO!” waving as though he was trying to attract their attention from the top of the mountain. Already bouncing out of the building and running over, his arms catching around Leo and Usagi’s’ waist with as much love his arms could manage, ”IT’SBEENSOLONG!!! I’m twice as tall as when you last saw me!”

Leo laughed, as he wrapped his arm around the child’s shoulders, “Aka-chan, its’ only been a few hours.”

Mikey’s’ smile was just as quickly replaced with a pout, he removed his affection from around their waist and crossed his arms, “That doesn’t mean I’m not taller!! Can’t you tell? I’m so tall now!”

The blue masked kame glanced over long enough to share a smile with Usagi before the rabbit reached over and rubbed Mikey’s’ scalp before flattening his hand, carefully pulling his hand over comparing his height to himself, barely to his waist, “Hmmmm, perhaps Aka-chan. How about I check your height again after dinner. With all that extra food in your stomach I’m sure you’ll be even taller.”

That quailed the nine year old’s pout with another bright smile, ”SEE! I told you!!! I’m getting taller by the second! Soon I’ll be taller then you!”

“I believe you.” Leo said. He had always considered himself to be very lucky, and a large reason for that was the child in front of him and perpetual happiness and laughter.

Miyamoto Mikey, his little brother

His Aka-chan

He reached over and placed a hand on Mikey’s neck, “Come on, its’ almost time for training.”

“Aw Leo! Do I have to?!” light blue eyes begged, “I hate watching you guys train, it’s so boring! I wanna go play with my friends!”

“Mikey you know I like keeping an eye on you. And we both know you can’t be home alone without SOMETHING happening. Our home can’t’ take another bored Mikey attack.” That made Mikey smile sheepishly, but it was only a matter of time before another pout came out. Leo reached into his kimono and drew out a small back, untying the draw string, “How about this, I know your out of charcoal, I’ll give you a ryo and you can buy some more and bring your art supplies. You can play by the fishing hut.”

“Really!?” Mikey beamed, “can I get my nunchakus too!?’

Uh oh, Leo fell the smile slide off his face, “um, no not today.” Or ever, in his opinion, “ Later, for now just go get your art supplies. NO grabbing stink bombs.”

The nine year old stuck his tongue out at him but was already hurrying off. Heading up towards the house on top of the slope. Innocence, it was a gift

“Leonardo, you know no one thinks you’re or Mikey are ninjas, right?”

Leo fingered the sleeve of his kimono slightly. There was no hiding ANYTHIGN from Usagi. He was the first person Leo ever remembered seeing, and Usagi's father took a great risk taking in 2 strange kame orphans with no last name. Like said before, all Leo had on him was his blue mask, the two long swords that never left his side, and a sleeping two year old Mikey on his back. Nothing else. No memories.

And on the eve of one of the biggest wars their land had ever seen, it made a few people suspicious. Two random children coming out of nowhere? He didn’t know it at the time but a few of the villagers had objected to their presence, but Dorinbo had calmed the village. Stating that if they were going to make two innocent children leave, then he’d take Usagi and go with them. That probably explained why the villagers had been so nice and sympathetic to him when he first started wandering the village. Leo didn’t blame them, they had just suffered a horrible war lost friends and family to an unknown enemy. That’s when Leo had first heard that horrid word like a knife in his back…

Ninja

At first he hadn’t known what ninja were, no one would tell him, but eventually he had worn Dorinbo down. He had taken Leo aside and told him that ninjas were simply hired warriors. But that they had their own form of honor not so different from those of a samurai. It hadn’t sound so bad when Dorinbo had explained it like that. IT was how Dorinbo explained everything to him, with an open mind and understanding. And with that Leo had returned to childhood, to playing, to being a child…

It wasn’t long after that that Leonardo learned the truth, in the cruelest way possible.

Ninja’s were the enemy of the samurai.

When Dorinbo had adopted him, he told Leo he was now the son of a Samurai. And it would be his path if he so chose it.

He owed Usagi and Dorinbo-sama everything

“I know.” Leo said with a weak smile. Mikey was already running for them again with a sack at his side and something to his chest with excitement in his eyes, “did you get your charcoal Aka-chan?”

Mikey smiled sheepishly, uncharacteristic for a child so open and full of happiness, “Right here!!” he held up the sack with both hands. It was sweet that, even if Leo had been calling Mikey ‘Akachan’ for years now that he’d still get bashful once in a while. Leo’s hand came up to rub his scalp as he free hand pulled the bag open and peered inside. Yup, true to his orders the only things in the bag was a stick of charcoal from the house and rolled up sheets of paper. Even so he made sure to move the papers aside, if Mikey had proven anything in his nine years of being alive, it was his dire craving for pranks, and such. So it wouldn’t of surprised Leo to find a stink bomb or a small stick of firecrackers in the bag. Even if he could improvise with sticking a giant pile of wet leaves in someone’s pillow. Mikey’s’ pranks were harmless for the most part. Luckily the people in the village seemed to understand Mikey, which was probably the only reason they hadn’t been run out for his numerous pranks. Blowing up the chicken coops, putting wet leaves under futons, harmless for the most part. Even the chickens hadn’t been hurt. Leo’s inspection came up clean, “good boy.” He said, rubbing Mikey’s scalp again before sliding his hand around Mikey’s shoulder to hold him into his side.

“aw Come on Leo!” the child squirmed against his hold, “I don’t’ need a bodyguard!! I make dinner without risking everyone’s lives! Unlike you! “

“I know, but having a bodyguard and a big brother is the same thing. Besides, in a crowd this big you might get swept away.

Mikey blinked up at him for a moment before looking around them with a confused expression at the Miyamoto brothers, two housewives walking by, and the elderly orange Inui Arata walk by. All of whom the brothers had known for years. Leo made a point of coughing into his fist, “Come on come on.” He brushed off the folly of his statement before. Even though he had been victim to Mikey’s’ antics enough, even more so then Usagi, he still preferred this to Mikey’s other vice

Nunchaku

He never understood what drew his little brother to use nunchaku. All he did know was that, a few months back, Mikey saw them in the back corner of the blacksmiths store and fell in love with them. He had even told the owner he'd work at there to pay it off. But the owner couldn't remember even having them and simply gave it to him. Mikey claimed it was because he was adorable. Leo claimed it was because Mikey was breaking everything in the store.

Leo had been sure that his little brother would grow tired of using nunchaku, but his attention stuck on fast. But for the next few days, Mikey could be found playing with his nunchaku relentlessly. Leo had told himself to ignore it, as did Usagi. But when the child had started walked around the village with them on his waist, he couldn’t keep quiet anymore. So, he made Mikey promise him to only play when all his work was done.

Even so, he smiled down at the child, who he had helped raise over the past nine years, and then to the rabbit grinning at him, his best friend. Catching them both around the shoulders before the three walked on. This was life for him, for Miyamoto Leonardo. He had two brothers and a father he loved. A village worth protecting and a code of honor worth upholding….

He couldn’t ask for anything else

Life was good.

________________________________________________________________

In case you were curious, the original story is here https://www.fanfiction.net/s/9015802/1/Unbreakable

#teenage mutant ninja turtles #2003 #usagi yojimbo #usagi #feudal japan #family #adventure #fanfiction #mikey #leo #unbreakable

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darkmindsthinktwistedthoughts · 5 years

Text

Enter the Kitsune - Chapter 2

Warnings: none really in this part. introduction to castle life.

Masterlist

—

Chapter 2

I raised my groggy head from what felt like a giant pillow only to discover it was the flat mattress they gave me to sleep on. It is called a futon, right? Argh… need coffee. Defused light was seeping into the room through the large screen in front of the window. It took a few moments for my brain to catch up with everything. I guess some part of me still thinks this is a weird dream.

– Clatter –

A loud noise from outside my room made me jump. Wrapping the blanket around my shoulders I moved to the door and slid it open just enough to see that one of the servants had dropped a tray. Small plates had fallen onto the floor. Miraculously they had somehow avoided braking, which was more than could be said for the food.

A young girl with dark chocolate brown hair was bent over scooping rice and other foodstuffs back onto the tray to try to clean up the mess.

“What do you think you are doing?” A slightly older woman scuttled out of a room with a wet rag in her hand. Her sharp tone made even me jump and I felt even worse for the young girl who was being glared at as if she had intended to sully the castle floor on purpose.

“I was taking breakfast to the Princess.” The girl paused in cleaning up the mess to bow her head to her elder.

“Princess? Don’t make me laugh. Takes more than a title to make you something like that. I have no idea where Lord Oda found that stray cat but it won’t take long for him to get bored with her.” The other woman was waving around her rag like a flag as she spoke. I knew I wouldn’t be welcomed with open arms or anything but you would have thought they would at least see me or get to know me before deciding they hate me.

“We still have to treat her…” The younger servant stood back up balancing the tray with its scattered contents in her hands.

“She won’t be getting special treatment from me. You do as you like.” The other servant scoffed.

“Has anyone seen her yet?” Another female appeared carrying what looked to be bolts of fabric with one more maid walking next to her carrying a woven basket that looked to be full of linen. “I caught a glimpse of her when she arrived. She was sitting proud as you like wrapped up in Lord Masamune’s arms.”

“Who does she think she is?” The older servant was practically spitting venom in her voice at this point.

“Lord Hideyoshi doesn’t seem to like her much.” The one carrying the linen spoke in a conspiratorial tone as she joined the conversation.

“Well, that says it all. The man has taste.”

“What was her name anyway?”

“I think Lord Mitsunari said she was called Aerion Foxx.” The young servant holding the dropped tray timidly spoke up. Clearly, she was uncomfortable with the conversation but was staying put probably from fear of being dubbed an outcast in some way. Honestly, the way they are gathering there just makes it look like a bunch of people gossiping around the water cooler in the office at work.

“Fox? As in Kitsune?” The one holding the fabric nearly dropped them as they practically jumped hearing my surname. It’s not that strange of a name you know?

“Haha, that’s perfect!” There was nothing pleasant in the laughter that erupted from the lips of that older servant.

“What is?”

“Well we already have one kitsune in the castle now Lord Oda has brought in another one.” The servant holding the linen basket nodded knowing what the older woman was getting at. Kitsune? I guess that’s what they call a fox here. Why do I get the feeling its meant as an insult?

“Shh, keep your voice down what if she should hear us?”

“What does it matter? Mark my words she is nothing but a fancy stray cat from some Nanban’s boat. I give it a week before Lord Oda is bored and tired of her and she is gone.” Everything about the older servant just seemed to scream that she was not going to accept me no matter what I did. It’s not like I was planning on trying to be everyone’s friend or anything. But the fact remains I have to stay here for at least 3 months. It would have been nice if we could all just be civil with each other. I gave a silent little sigh as I imagined the drama that was sure to be coming my way in the near future.

I slid the door closed not wishing to hear any more and noticed a bundle placed next to it. It was neatly tied and there was a small note placed on top. The black ink was smooth and delicate on the paper making it almost seem inviting in some way. There was no way I had of reading it, I had been right before I might be able to somehow hear and speak this language but I can’t read it. A soft knock on my door announced the arrival of the original maid that had dropped the tray in the corridor.

“Excuse me, Princess. I have your breakfast from the kitchen.” She had her head bent low in a formal bow and was shuffling her way into my room like a graceful constricted swan. Her dark brown hair was bundled to one side at the top of her head in a kind of messy bun, small ponytail style. Her bangs were falling over her face in three sections allowing me to see her eyes that looked so warm and inviting it was like looking into two cups of rich dark espresso. She couldn’t have been older than me if anything she appeared to be in her late teens.

“What is your name?” I was still holding the bundle one hand with the unreadable note in the other.

“My name is Akito, Princess.” She continued to politely address me and placed the tray down near a floor cushion for me. She was stealing small glances at me but not actually looking at me for very long at all. Nervous? Fear? Or is that some form of manners here? Either way, I can’t take it, it’s making me feel uncomfortable just watching her.

“Ok. Well, Akito. First of all, you don’t have to bow to me. And could you please not call me by that title?” I felt like I had been repeating the same conversation over and over again to everyone recently. It’s a shame I can’t just record the message and hit a play button every time I want to say it.

“It would be highly disrespectful to do such a thing, my lady.” Akito’s head shot up from her formal bow so she was looking at me directly now. He brown eyes were wide with curiosity but also appeared to have traces of fear in them. Oh, come on I’m not that scary. What do you think I’m going to do?

“Alright I realise there is a strong sense of maintaining things like that here but whilst you are in my room with no one else here you can drop the formalities. I am just a woman the same as you.” I gave her a warm smile and kept my tone soft in an attempt to calm her. Thankfully Akito seemed to relax a little at this.

“If that is what you have ordered me to do Prin-, I’m sorry if I am not to call you Princess what am I to call you my lady?” Akito inclined her head and it reminded me of a small animal discovering something new.

“My name is Aerion.”

“Lady Aerion.” Akito nodded happily a stunning smile spreading across her face as she addressed me.

“I suppose that will do for now.” I chuckled. “Will you be the main servant I see?”

“Yes, lady Aerion I was assigned to your care by lord Mitsunari. I am your personal maid.” Akito straightened up proudly after saying this. I wonder if Mitsunari chose Akio specifically because she seems to be so kind or if it was because no one else seems to want to have anything to do with me? I mentally shook that thought from my mind not wanting to dwell on things I can’t change.

“I see. Could I ask you to read this to me?” I handed over the note to a confused looking Akito. She took it carefully in her hands and began translating it for me.

“I thought you would be needed this. I hope you find it easier to move in. Akechi Mitsuhide.”

“Mitsuhide?” The name of the last man I thought would be leaving me surprise gifts made me look suspiciously at the bundle in my hands.

“Yes, My lady.”

“Do you have any idea what this is?” I held up the folded fabric glad to see that Akito apparently recognised it. She gently took it from my hand and unfolded it holding it up for me to see that it was definitely clothing.

“That is called a hakama my lady.”

“Is it different from a Kimono?” I took a step closer to it running my fingers over the soft fabric to what looked like a pair of unfinished trousers.

“Yes, my lady. If you like I can help you get dressed after you have eaten.”

“Thank you, Akito I’d appreciate it. I tried to put on this kimono myself and made a complete mess with the obi.”

“I understand. A lot of the foreign visitors have similar issues but with practice, it does become easier.”

Breakfast was simple but delicious on my empty stomach. I tried to remember the last time I really bothered to eat a proper breakfast and failed miserably. It was always a mad rush in the morning to get the train to work so typically I would grab a Danish pastry from the coffee shop along with my morning late and suffer the impending doom of my own hunger until lunchtime when I could go out and get something decent to eat somewhere else.

Akito had helped me get dressed and I was happily surprised with how comfortable the hakama was to move in. My legs didn’t feel like they were going to be restricted at any point. It was a far cry from my usual pair of jeans it was a better historical replacement than a standard kimono. I tried to pay attention to the different layers as Akito explained how to put together the outfit on me. Under kimono, kimono, obi nothing seemed different until I slipping into the Hakama and then the very specific way she was tying it around my waist.

It felt strange to put on effectively a pair of trousers like this. After attaching the front of the hakama Akito took what looked like a wooden fastener that was at the back of the hakama and attached it to the new ties she had made when she arranged the first half of the hakama. She pulled the back portion of the hakama a little higher so it covered my original obi and then moved to do the finishing ties around my waist turning the stiffen fabric into a beautiful flattened bow on my left side. Apparently, there was a right and wrong way of doing that so I tried to follow as best I could. There is no way I’ll be perfect at this straight off the bat but I can at least attempt to try and get better at it.

After what felt like an eternity of getting dressed Akito left to return the tray to the kitchen and had some other work to attend to. I felt bad for keeping her so long so I let her go and decided I would try to make my way around the castle to see if I could figure out what I was supposed to do in my new job. I had been right on my first impression of around here it’s so easy to get lost in this labyrinth of corridors.

“Ah! There you are, Lass.” That familiar voice instantly made me freeze as I remembered the steel against my throat. Turning around slowly in case of there being a repeat performance of last night I saw Masamune walking along happily with Ieyasu by his side looking less than impressed with the other man’s company.

“Masamune. Ieyasu.” I didn’t know what else to say and as I was usually told it was better to say nothing during those times than ramble like an idiot.

“You look lost.” Masamune chuckled looking a little like a mischievous child as he got close enough to try to reach out his hand for me and I instantly sidestepped to avoid him. His blue eye twinkled seeing this and I swear I saw him lick his lips. Little early in the day for that kind of thing… down boy.

“A little.” I admitted I was in fact lost it wasn’t as if pride was going to help me change the facts.

“Takes talent to get lost walking in a straight line. You’re as bad as Mitsunari.” Ieyasu spoke up critiquing my inability to decipher the castle layout. I plastered my best smile on my face that I usually saved for meetings with difficult clients at work.

“And it takes a special kind of talent to both help someone out and insult them at the same time. Congratulations Ieyasu you really nailed it.” Ieyasu stood there slack-jawed, emerald eyes wide just staring at me dumbfounded. Masamune had a similar expression but recovered much faster and burst out laughing so loud it echoed in the hallway.

“Isn’t that great Ieyasu you got yourself a new friend?” Masamune said slapping the other guy on the shoulder with an audible thump.

“As if I’d want to be friends with a weakling like her.” Ieyasu mumbled avoiding eye contact with either of us as he spoke. Something about that sight made me start giggling which earned me a glare from Ieyasu that only served to make my laughter worse.

“So where were you trying to get to?” Masamune asked after we had both gotten our laughter under control.

“Nowhere really I was just trying to work out what I should be doing as Chatelaine but I haven’t found anyone that’s willing to tell me yet.” I felt the weight of all the emotions that hit me earlier when I had overheard the staff gossiping earlier. I had found several maids but they had all been more interested in asking if I needed anything and insisting that I didn’t need to help them. When I tried to ask about my new job, they had either fallen silent or made excuses to leave. Nothing like that classic feeling of the new kid in school.

“You should just give up and go be a good girl and play in your room.” Ieyasu huffed. Clearly, he thought that Nobunaga’s original idea of me playing dress up was what I should be doing. Just the idea of that had my skin bristling all over.

“No. I said I would work and I intend to. I can’t sit around and just do nothing I really will go crazy and what’s more why are you talking to me like I’m a child?”

“Who goes wandering around and gets lost when they are an adult?” Ieyasu met my tone matching it perfectly with his own bringing us into a stalemate just glaring at each other.

“Ignore him, Lass. If you want to know what you should be doing you had best go and ask Mitsunari. I would say Hideyoshi but when I last saw him, he looked like you could boil water on his head.” Masamune expertly cut in front of Ieyasu and broke the tension.

“What a lovely image. And how do I find Mitsunari?”

---

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