The Hashiras in a Relationship | Obanai Iguro
Word Count: 8077
A/N: phew, not my favortism showing at all. Oops.
Setting: Obanai Iguro x gn!reader [we do have mentions of Obanai's gynophobia]
Content Warning(s): none, I sort of behaved. We do have spoilers though! Be ware!
Summary: sweet, fluffy love relationship cannons for Obanai Iguro from attraction to love.
To be loved by the Serpent Hashira is to know dependability. It’s the touch of night, serene and quiet in the late hours. Soothing as the shy moon that lingers in your heart. A star-crossed lover, never destined to touch upon the face of its lover the sun. Rare moments to embrace rare and few between, meaningful bursts that light up the sky. No, it is the reliability of the luminescent glow cast upon a stone path, a guide in the dead of night as he faithfully chases after his lover’s warmth. Loyal, and always one step behind, but never straying, always within grasp. Fingers lightly brushed, a gentle lover who will always show you compassion nurtured in the shadows. Cultivated in the light of the late hours, gentle as the whispers of support and affections laced on his tongue. The tender gaze upon your silhouette far to entranced in the glow of the night to notice the way his heterochromatic eyes are captivated by you. Enchanted by your grin, bewitched by your giggles. Dazzled by the twirl of your sway, the jovial sway of your hips as you spin beneath the stars. Quick to ensnare you within his grasp when you stumble on the stone path, secure to his side. The glow of his mixed matched eyes the entrance to other worlds, galaxies concealed by the vast contour of space. Tremble of delicate, beautiful eyes afraid of the emotions that lay dormant beneath his averted gaze. Revealed to you, and you alone, just as his love.
To be loved by Obanai is to accept that you will need to embrace patience. To be tolerant of his needs, and adapt as they come. Like the moon, the Serpent Hashira has many faces he adorns, and only those who dare to gaze upon his shadows are gifted with the beauty of his reveal.
Savor the quite moments, knowing that your love needs no noise to fill the silence. Breathe in the comforting notes of eucalyptus when he dares to draw closer. An eternal dance, rhythms of heart in sync. Never daring to draw attention to the graze of his shoulders against your own.
Obanai has quite the reputation amongst the corps for being a cold, and distant individual. his demands for Uzui not to retire do not help this rumor. Quick to dismiss those beneath him, and isolate himself from his peers. It’s in his nature, and his upbringing, but beneath this mask he bears, is a surprisingly compassionate man.
One who has survived the horrors of the world, and looks to a new future. A dedicated man who will do everything in his power to protect those he cares about. This lends itself to his closer relationships, as despite how it may appear, Obanai is willing to put in the effort to maintain relationships. from guidance by Uzui to tea time with Kyojuro.
To those he deems worthy of his respect, Obanai is willing to expend his social battery to grow stronger bonds. It’s easy to mistake his steadfast loyalty to the Demon Slayer Corps and regulations as rigid, and unforgiving, because In a lot of aspects. It is.
He cannot trust nor accept anyone who has strayed from the code. He will live and die by the rules, and does not understand those who stand by these convictions. Obanai is abnormally loyal, and expects the same return. He is fairly narrow-minded and one tracked when it comes to his convictions, and the code.
His loyalty extends to all aspects of his life, from his inner network of coworkers, to his respect to the Ubuyashiki clan, to you as his lover. He is no stranger to hard work, nor is he one to falter when obstacles come between you. Rather, you will find that Obanai will meet challenges fairly head on to secure the bond between you.
That being said, Obanai can be fairly pragmatic in his approach, and because of this, you will rarely see slips of emotion through his porcelain surface. He remains sensible regardless of what troubles may come, and it certainly has it’s advantages.
He is a reliable lover, and will always remain by your side. Even when he needs his own space. he’s never far from you. Like a shadow. Because of how dedicated Obanai is to the success of the relationship, he is actually a fairly good listener, and enjoys listening to you ramble on and on about whatever it is you wish to discuss.
You may often find yourself carrying a majority of the conversation, and may worry that you are boring him. you are not. Other times, you may truly fret on whether you have left the Serpent Hashira enough room to join the conversation. he’s so quite that you may feel like one of those jerks that never allows others time to add to the discussion. You’re not, and he’s genuinely enjoying hearing your voice.
Finds comfort in your enthusiasm, and basks in your warmth. like a snake blossomed across a rock under the sun’s rays. That being said, he is fairly pragmatic, and if you’ve approached him with a problem even if you do not wish for it to be solved, he’s solving it. as quickly as he can, Obanai cannot stand the idea of you having difficulties even if it’s necessary for your development. also, he just genuinely hates emotional conversations.
He is not up for gossip of any kind.
The Serpent Pillar is by nature, fairly traditional in a sense. On the one hand, he keeps fairly traditional ideals--- such as the reminiscent of the samurai code towards their lords reflected in the way that Iguro regards Ubuyashiki which is just a shame as Ubuyashiki would never wish for any of the members to choose death over life.
Yet, despite being fully aware of how the Master mourns those who have been lost, the swordsman will not be swayed from his ideals. On the other hand, he has a tendency to be a bit unconventional.
He is aware that societal expectations require a fair amount of social interactions, and is willing to play along when it comes to the demands of his position. however while he is steadfast in his responsibilities, he will not maintain a bedside manner.
He has shown up for duty, and takes his tasks seriously, but that does not mean for one he will play nice. such as in the case of training Tanjiro and the other mizunoto in swordsmanship.
like Muichiro, his favoritism and respects are not subtle. You will always know where you, and those around you fall with him. He’s to the point, and direct about it.
No really, he will not hesitate to praise you in front of everyone, before offering the most horrific finger jab and insult at your training partner. things with your peers/coworkers will be tense.
But truthfully, I feel like this is in a sense a small part of his kindness. Yes, he savored the moment to express openly his distain for others, but at the same time, I feel like Obanai takes training others very seriously. He takes slaying demons, and the upcoming generation very seriously and gods he has little hopes for any of them.
But it’s because of this that Obanai’s punishments are… creative. The truth is that should they make the very mistake of bearing weakness to a demon as they had to their own instructor, the opponent will not hesitate to claim their life, or worse. Obanai was raised in cage, he knows there are fates far worse than death..
In orchestrating a punishment that they will never forget; he’s ensuring that they will not make the same mistake twice. they will not die due to shoddy instruction. It’s the overanalytical aspect that meets his strive for perfectionism head on that can make him unforgiving a teacher, and a leader.
He is an inherently observant individual, and it is because of this that he can see every faulter in your swordplay, any shift of weight that could lead to you being easily knocked off your feet, and disarmed. Which is what leads him to drilling into you and those around him to ensure that such gaps are erased from your movements. he does not wish to see any of you die.
Iguro is a stable individual. He’s consistent in his habits and his mannerisms. You may be surprised to know that he is consistent in his behaviors, and for the most part, not easily knocked off kilter. He’s secure in his personality, and balanced. He is not easily disturbed, nor is he easily upset.
Because of this, you will find that Obanai can be fairly forgiving of his partner. Just as patient with you as you have expressed towards him. You will not find him easily agitated by small miscommunications between the two of you, he is aware that he is not always the easiest person to comprehend.
He would much rather dedicate his energy to straightening up the misunderstanding, and ensuring that this same blunder will not happen again, and is by all means true to those he deems worthy. In fact, he’s almost rigid in the way that he conducts himself. While others such as Muichiro and Mitsuri have the ability to accept bygones, Obanai is unyielding.
Unable to accept infringements in ideals, and inflexible to come to a compromise. ironic given his breathing technique.
As you may expect, Obanai adores a partner who has their own desires in life and is amazed at ones who can express their dreams. Someone who has adorned sunshine in their hearts, and continues to pursue their goals will bring so much sunshine to his otherwise bleak existence. Which is necessary as Iguro really does struggle to release control from his finger tips, and a lover who is able to relinquish control will leave him breathless. desiring to join your side at the cost of his own comfort.
Just as the Serpent Hashira has high expectations of his students, Obanai can be just as unforgiving in his ideals for a partner. He knows exactly what it is that he is looking for in a companion, and will not bend to a partner that does not meet his standards. He is not making exceptions regardless of what beauty nor skills you present.
If you are not up to his caliber, then your capabilities have no merit with him. Iguro eally won’t hesitate to turn anyone down. I dare say he would reject Kichijoten, the goddess of beauty and happiness if he deemed her far to flirtatious.
Obanai needs an open and honest partner. One that does not hesitate to express any thoughts or doubts that cross their mind. Whether it’s fretting over their own capabilities with the sword, or in preparing dinner, or if that they have become concerned about the state of the relationship, Obani does best with someone who will be willing to allow themselves to be vulnerable with him. ironic as he will not be forth coming with his own insecurities.
However, it may be because of the innocence of his partner, that he is able to place more trust in you. He cannot pursue a bond that he does not feel secure in, nor a partner who he does not deem reliable.
He needs a light-hearted partner more than anything, someone who will embrace him and all of his faults. Catch his fingers between their own, and tug them along, eager to show him the bunny burrow they discovered during their morning chores. Someone who would eagerly rush home from the shopping, eager to show a cute little snake motif dango that the vender had sold as a limited edition.
The way your eyes beamed up at him despite your obvious state of undress, leaves caught in your hair snagged on a lower branch in your rush. He feels embarrassed for you but gods above you’re adorable.
As someone who he can put his faith and trust in, Obanai needs a companion who will keep his word. He wants someone who will always keep their word, regardless of the prickle bushes they may go through, or do anything within their power to keep their oath.
The day that you spread through demons to be at his side despite the obvious danger, uniform torn into in various places, and lacerations that littered your body. You swore you would be at his side. and you were.
Even small oaths, things such as keeping your word to complete a household task. To make his favorite meal, or hang his laundering for him when he’s pulled away from duty. They all mean so much to him, and he needs to be able to trust that you will always deliver. Because the gods above know that he will. Heaven nor the seven hells could prevent him from keeping his promise.
Really, dependability is non-negotiable in his book. He will accept an outgoing lover one who will shout his name over the crowds, heedless of the way passerbys look at your crazed state he’s blushing at how wildly you wave your arms eager to be seen, and he will adore a shyer partner, one that stumbles to meet his gaze.
But under no circumstances, will he ever accept a partner who he cannot depend on. He needs to know that you will stick with him through thick and thin because to be honest, Obanai is aware that difficult to deal with.
I strongly believe that the Serpent Hashira wants someone playful. He spent his entire childhood robbed of all opportunities to engage in play, and I believe that a partner who is high-spirited. Someone who from time to time can be mischievous. Toss the laundering over his head, seizing his momentary confusion to wrap him in the blanket, snug over his shoulders. Only released if he pays a kiss toll.
Someone who is perky, inviting, and warm. The day that a ball wandered into your yard, plucked between your fingers. A smile that met your face upon nervous small children peeked over the fencing before challenging them to a game. Quick to draw him into the mischief even though the little kids were rightful uneasy. how gentle you were to teach him the rules embraced his inner child.
It will be necessary that you are patient, because the reality is that a relationship with the Serpent Hashira means navigating hidden waters. A partner who cannot read between the lines will not do well with him, you’ll both become frustrated with the pairing.
Not that he won’t be patient for the beginning of the relationship, but as time goes on, if you have not mastered the underlining context, he will take it very personally. Snippy in his remarks as well, and it’s likely only a matter of time before things head down hill quickly, he just does not have the ability to engage in an emotional warfare repeatedly.
Obanai also approaches things rather head on, so if you are truly not taking his words at face value, well, this just isn’t going to work, and he’s not wasting his time.
Because of how private and elusive Obanai’s tendencies often are, alongside his gynophobia complicating interactions gendered partners, there are two scenarios I can imagine him becoming acquainted with his partner.
Let’s be honest, in general, Obanai requires a good bit of time to grow attached to someone, and due to his dysphoria with the female gender will lend itself to a lot of obstacles for individuals with she/her as their pronouns. Where as he/him, and they/them will have a significantly easier time of becoming acquainted with him.
The first and foremost would likely be a slightly older recruit who’s position is similar to that of Aoi’s (capable of swordsplay, but primarily cares for tasks) that has been entrusted with teaching the basics of the world to Obanai upon his rescue by the former Flame Hashira, Shinjuro. The decision being a combination of Shinjuro’s inability to properly engage with a child we’ve all seen him and the Ubuyashiki both observing Obanai’s desperate need for companion and proper socialization with a peer. The wedded duo knowing exactly who to assign to his well-being. Let’s be clear, the initial meeting did not go well. The mixture of trauma and anxiety and is that a snake?, contact was similar to that of approaching a soaked stray cat who wanted nothing to do with you. Quick to hiss and furrow, snip at you, and obscured profanities, but as time and dedication went on, your loyalty to the task that the Master had set on your shoulders spurring you forward. One day scooted to your side upon hearing a fairytale between gentle lips. Reading from a text you had borrowed from the Lady Amane, whispered tales to the garden, well aware that the young boy had once again taken to the trees. Slowly, but surely scooted closer and closer before peeking over your shoulder at the water paintings across the pages. In time, you would teach him so many things, an older sibling figure intended to guide him. until you weren’t to him.
The other scenario would be a recruit the same age, or just a little younger that through a turn of events has found themselves under the care of the Demon Slayer Corps, just as he had. Muddled by your own circumstances, and yet, despite all you had been through. Your smile had not faded, nor did you hesitate to reach out your hand to him. Eager to drag him to the gardens. Try to convince him to play even when he refused. Dedicated in your training regardless of how the both of you had been put through the ringer a number of times. Your optimism never betraying you, nor leaving his side. Joyful and caring, determined to stick through your hardships through thick and thin.
Although of course as we have seen with Mitsuri, Obanai could also be a completely ordinary girl. Sunny, and sweet, and blissfully aware of the way of the world, who is far too excited and preoccupied at the opportunity to become a tutor in etiquette to the young Ubuyashiki siblings. Completely innocent as they are naïve. It was the smile that claimed his heart.
The truth is that Obanai needs a little excitement in his life, and someone who would seize every opportunity to enjoy moments together. Someone who is playful, but just as content to snuggle in to his hold on a gentle spring morning. He needs a partner who takes their duties quite seriously, and stoically faces obstacles, but just as goofy and silly as they sew a small, matching haori for Kaburamaru. Kaburamaru needs a haori to match Obanai. Change my mind.
Really, he just favors a lover who is in tune with their own needs and desires. You want to eat a pound of dango, run through the rain, dance beneath fireworks, or sing silly song with the neighborhood children, he’s adoring you from a far. that tree. He’s in that tree. It is perhaps your jovial approach to life that puts his heart at ease.
Dishonesty has no place in his relationship. The Serpent Hashira would rather be met with blunt honesty than a sugared lie. Iguro would much rather face a difficult obstacle, harsh realities about pasts, and mistakes, rather than be diluted in a fantasy. He loves you, not a lie. It is also to consider how his familial background impacts his rigid approach to integrity and honest if you ever become frustrated at how unforgiving he can be when met with a fib. he is not a tool.
You will also find that surprisingly Obanai does not have room for aggression in his heart. While he can be biting with others, the reality is that he does not have a firm bone in his body. and you will discover how terrifying he can be towards anyone who dares show you belligerence. The reality is the same gentle nature he gives you; he expects in return.
He will not accept a partner who is aggressive or hostile to him. There are just so many ways to communicate and address stressors in your relationship, that there is just no excuse for belligerent behavior towards your partner. You are each other’s safe space—no one feels safe with a biting partner. He doesn’t want that. he’s had more than enough of that in his lifetime.
Regardless of how life has gone, Obanai is a believer that you should do everything within your power to make moves for the better. Just as he is determined to purify his blood from the curses of familial lineage, and Uzui is to make a difference in the world, the Serpent Pillar has zero tolerance for someone remains a victim to circumstance.
Let’s be clear, it’s not that he does not sympathize with someone who has been drowned to the depths of despair. he will be more than comforting to your pain. However, you cannot remain there. Life cannot stop moving. You have to keep moving. even if he’s dragging you.
The Serpent Pillar has a few tendencies in the pre-relationship to Shinobu than others may expect. Just like the Insect Hashira, Iguro will spend quite a long time in this stage of the developing relationship than most people. I suspect, out of all the Hashira, he remains here the longest. It is the period in which he is interested it, but doubtful.
Actively trying to find fault in your existence to prove that the way his heart flutters when he sees you is absolutely meaningless—he’ll stay here even longer than Kocho. He is observing. Everything. I mean everything.
Iguro is analytical, and spends more time than he will ever admit disecting every single interaction. Skewering the evidence to prove that you are not what you seem to be. He really is noting every single interaction—not limited to himself. How low did you bow to Ubuyashiki? Were you considerate of Lady Amane, and did you show proper appreciation to Aoi for nurturing your wounds? How you regard the kakushi. Obanai would dump you if you were rude to a waitress. I just know it.
The serpent breather takes respect very serious, as well as boundaries. He is quick to respect any boundaries you set between the two of you, and is not the type to push for more than what you wish to offer.
That being said, he very much expects the same in return. Do not touch him. Do not dare force physical interactions, or desires on him. It’s not that Iguro does not have them—he just isn’t the type to act on them early in a relationship.
He prefers to get to know someone very well before jumping into a relationship, let alone physical affections. this man may like snakes, but he’s a turtle. For obvious reasons, it will take some time for Obanai to show vulnerability, even if he really is fond of you.
He’s not quick to allow intimate gestures, or allow his bandages to slip from his lips, but it shows the depth of his passions for you when they come unwound. but that’s a slight nsfw thought
In courting, it’s important to note that Obanai values sincerity, and as such, you can expect any manipulation or mind game tactics will not be met with the reaction you want.
Ploys to lure another person into your bed with the intent of making him jealous? Yeah, that’s super ineffective. In fact, I would say any prior attraction is canceled, and he will take extra care to either avoid you in public, or openly express his disgust with you. lethal.
Any situation that Iguro has been put in to intentionally foster distrust with you is indicative that you are not the person he thought you were.
As rigid as he is, and how limited his communication skills can be at times. You’d be surprised that Iguro does enjoy discussions. However, it’s nothing mundane. He’s not interested in idle gossip, nor is he intrigued by the happenings of town or even the inner ranks. He finds these discussions absolutely boring.
However, if you gravitate towards intellectual topics, you’ll find him quick to engage. To ask you questions, to delve deeper into your interest. Have an odd interest in ancient cultures, he is all ears. Fascinated by the early mechanics of the era such as the steam engine, Iguro will listen to you recount ever detail that you can. he’ll bring home books if he comes across them.
The Serpent Hashira has his own unique interests, and can be draw to the most obscured of arts such as his interest in candy crafting. he doesn’t even have a sweet tooth; the technique just leaves him awestruck.
Because of this, Iguro enjoys listening to any interest or study you have found yourself immersed in. Actually, if you have a book or series, you have been invested in lately, try to lure him into the plot. He enjoys reading in his free time. he’ll leave little pieces of poetry for you to find.
Honestly, by the point flirting comes into play, Obanai has already concluded that the relationship is not worth pursuing, and because of this, you can expect that his ability to be coy is not practiced.
Despite how much of a natural perfectionist the swordsman is, he is more than aware that his ability to court is not his strong suit. Never expect a big grand gesture, such as declaration in the middle of the village, or for him to intercept a wedding to spirit you away. It’s just not in his nature. The more well practiced flirting techniques such as bouquets, and proclamations of desire, yeah, they all seem forced. Uncomfortable and unnatural, as though he is wearing someone else’s skin. He has no desire to come off as insincere, especially in winning your heart.
If anything, it is his desire to always be straightforward with you that leads him to relying on more subtle attempts. Such as the way he naturally gravitates towards you, or the gentle way he regards your name. It’s his indirect approach that may take you a while to realize that he’s interested. but you should catch on fairly quick given how he treats others.
So pay close attention, the proof is in his behaviors.
Because truthfully, while Obanai is observant to a fault, his ability to read other’ people’s reactions and emotions. Suck. He finds the entire process confusing, overhwelming, and downright uncomfortable.
Obanai will rely on the fact that he even tolerates your present as an indicator which is… stiff at best. But when you consider how little Iguro is willing to engage in social interactions, there is certainly a reason why he’s inquiring about your duties. he’ll take a few of them off your hands.
More so, he really wants to get to know you, all of you. He has an incredible memory, and will retain any information you delve. Whether it’s a distant memory of assisting your parent in the kitchen, chasing after lanterns with siblings, or even the way you found yourself peeking over the fence at neighbors in childhood mischief, Obanai will remember all of it.
He will also seize upon any opportunity to prove that he has been listening, and assist you in any way he can. You might’ve mentioned a loose roof tile in your home, he wouldn’t hesitate to spend his free time securing it properly. Shared a memory of how you remember that your grandmother would always secure her sleeves before setting to work with a yellow ribbon, he’ll pick you up one when he’s in town.
Whether he realizes it or not, Obanai savors any opportunity to prove what a reliable partner he would make. Unsure how to express himself, or his intentions, less confidant in how to approach matters of the heart. but now you know why Kaburamura has been snipping at him lately.
Confessions will be slow, and take so much time and stamina. you’re amazing for hanging in there. As time draws on, and you’re becoming more and more clear that he’s attached to you, I feel like Obanai can either respond rather well to you confessing your feelings or poorly.
Really, it’s the days to come that will determine whether or not he will accept and return your feelings. IF you have made the decision to confess first no one blames you, as long as your heart is true and patient, willing to accept that he may not return these feelings, and wishing to remain as you are.
Understanding that he may need time to process, to approach how his stomach has flipped and Kaburamura nipped him. Give him time or months, Obanai will return your affections in his own time. However, if you cannot respect his autonomy, you will discover that he will recoil from your touch.
Further prodding will give him the impression that he has been lured into a corner, and left with no escape, he will outright reject you, and flee. he’s not looking back.
However, if Obanai has worked up the nerve to confess first, it would be in the sweetest of regards. Gentle, and self-assured. Tender as he expresses exactly why he is drawn to you, but kind in the way he allows you space.
The Serpent Hashira has no desires to entrap you. you are not a mouse.
Rather, he wants you to feel safe, to know that if you should turn him down, there will be no repercussions. Nor will his feelings falter. Rather, he will simply love you as he always has. from afar.
He is content to allow you all of the time you need to determine whether you wish to pursue a relationship with him, or not.
To have made it into dating is an accomplish no others have accomplished, and can expect that dates are viewed as a practical sense of time. Well intended with the opportunity to get to know you.
Obanai really views this as the perfect chance to get to know you on an intimate level rather than from a distance, or through the lens of a friend. Dates for the most part will default to fairly traditional routes. Walks through the garden, perhaps dinner, or a small picnic.
Iguro is not one to enjoy extravagance, whether in his personal belongings, or appearances certainly not his food, and because of this, dates that are simple are preferred.
Although he does appreciate when his partner takes the time to plan out thoughtful dates for bonding, so long as it’s not formal, he’s happy to go along with whatever it is you would like to do. Humble dates, such as flower viewing, or even hiking will always be a win in his book.
Even more so, games whether board games, or even childhood back and forth of hide and seek or onii will be well received. Obanai is even the type to enjoy curling up together, reading poetry. as time goes on, and he’s tired from his duties, you may even coddle his head in your lap. Is definitely the type to enjoy cooking together as a couple.
It should come as absolutely no surprise that Obanai has no appetite for a casual relationship. He avoids them like the plague. Short-term flings are just unappealing. The idea of something fleeting that would pray upon his security and vulnerabilities, just makes his skin crawl.
Nope, this isn’t happening, and if it does, it was an extremely rare encounter. buy a lottery ticket.
Once Iguro allows himself to admit that he has fallen in love, he will be quick to give himself to you. All of you. It’s true, he will still have a deep seeded need for alone time rather frequently, and it’s important to respect this need.
It’s not a desire, it is the difference between a mentally well man, or depraved individual. Rest assured, the distance only deepens your bond, and secures his attachment to you, alone. absent makes the heart grow fonder in this case. he’s not straying, really when he says he needs time in solitude, it’s a genuine trek up the mountains to camp alone for a couple of nights.
To connect back with the severed pieces of himself. Not to sneak off for a booty call. he’s really not the type.
Actually, if Iguro ever feels himself detached from you to the point that he considers an affair, he’s just leaving you all together. It’s harsh but, well…
Although expressing his affections does not come naturally to him, do not believe for one moment that he does not value you. He worships you. It’s rather that the Serpent Hashira is better suited to logical ends, and practical applications. The aspects of the relationship that lends itself to it, such as paying bills, picking up groceries, making dinner, ensuring you are well cared for when you’re sick, this is when you will find that your partner is a quite compassionate.
Quick to tend to your needs, and eager to care for you. However, when it comes to outwardly expressing how his eyes will always find you in the room—he’s a mess. There’s no way to quite explain it, it’s just that the words cannot be strung together.
As Iguro desperately grasps for them, they slip through his fingertips, evading his touch, and leaving him frustrated and muddled. Desperate to express his devotion, but unable to verbalize the depths of his love.
No, Iguro is the type to focus on the aspects of the relationship he can thrive under. The ability to improve your life with his presence, to make your life easier. Sharpening your blade for you, scooting all of your belongings to the lower shelf within reach, he is always looking for the opportunity to express his affections. just not verbally.
Really, it doesn’t take much to make him happy—he really just loves the opportunity to incline into your touch, rest upon your lap, occasionally reaching up to thread his fingers through your hair. Small tender moments mean everything to him.
Know that after his time away, Obanai will come back happier and more devoted to you. Far more engaged, and in tuned with your needs than when he left. he needs to learn self care. Period.
But understand that this goes deeper than you may expect. His upbringing was not an easy one, and because of the way he was raised, it’s naturally that he often prefers his own company than that of others.
This doesn’t mean that he does not need or want intimacy, it just means that he needs you to appreciate your time together as much as your time apart.
He really is quick to prove his affections in ways that he feels comfortable. Hanging laundry, sweeping the home, really and truly, what you see is what you get with Iguro, and then some. he’s sneaking poems into your luggage for when he parts for the mountains.
In a sweet way, as time goes on, you will find that Obanai becomes more and more genuine with you. Straightforward and honest. Really and truly, if you prove yourself a loyal partner, you can expect more and then some in return. He wants a relationship that is built upon trust, and a foundation of mutual respect.
One in which you are dedicated to each other regardless of the hardships or distances you will face. because he will always part for duty. Obanai is one of the most loyal romantic partners amongst the Hashiras.
If you are able to open up, and actually express your emotions fairly openly the way he adores, you should know that he envies it. he thinks your amazing
Although he may struggle to cope with an relationship that vocalizes emotions so much. The attention to what has not been said, overlooking what he has done for you, it will do great damage to the relationship and his confidence.
In fact, I believe that if push comes to shove, Iguro will struggle to survive a relationship with an overly emotional partner. He needs you to appreciate him for him, just as he appreciates you for you. The truth is, Obanai can often feel overwhelmed by intense feelings. Someone who always leaves him guessing will only erode his mental capacity.
He is by nature prone to reading into things more than he should, and if he has found that this is the only way to survive his relationship, he will take apart everything. it’s never good.
He has a way of being weighed down by the little details in general, and is quick to lose sight of the big picture amongst the evidence. He will drown in the depths of his anxiety and pessimism. It’s best to avoid this entirely.
Because of this, Obanai really needs a partner who will answer him point blank. Don’t worry about hurting his feelings, or that you are being blunt. He really prefers it. It gives him comfort and security that he is meeting your needs as you need them.
It’s really the key to a happy Iguro relationship. It will provide him with all of the confidence and security he needs in the relationship, and you will come to find that under this trust, iguro is a rather passionate and attentive partner. Quick to rub your shoulders in public if you have expressed that they are sore, shifting the load of groceries from your fingers onto his own burdens, the press of his lips quick to seek yours out when the opporunity presents itself. he’s touch starved, I just know it.
A stickler for traditions, will always approach them in the way they have always been done. Whether it’s noodles upon the new year, or mochi towered during the mid-autumn festival, Iguro is vigilant in securing the traditions and carrying them with him.
In fact, he may be quite stiff to follow any additions you may have to offer. imagine him standing on ends if you decide to bring him home for the holidays. Poor boy would be panicked to be offered a plate at the table.
He does not know how to handle being the center of the attention. It’s not necessarily that he’s outright shy, but he is very reserved. Obanai prefers to stick to himself, and his own means, only allowing those close to him to linger on his skin.
As such, opportunities of flaunting him will make him uneasy. He doesn’t enjoy the open praise in public, and will shift from sight at the first opportunity. like asnake drawing away from humans.
As Obanai is fond of more simple abodes and pass times, you’ll enjoy how low maintenance he actually is. He is content to give you your space, and time alone just as you give him. He will not fuss about you spending time with your friends, or departing to care for your sick mother in another providence. he’ll just miss you, but he’ll be waiting for your return.
Commitment is at the forefront of Obanai’s thoughts when he dives into a relationship. He wants an old timey romance, one in which there is only you and him. No others, and in which there is no drama, nor is there jealousy, or strays from each other’s embrace.
Iguro desperately wants someone to be vulnerable with, and he does not take commitment lightly. Rather, it’s of such significant importance to him. such as the way he dared to reveal his facial scars to you near shattered his heart.
If you have not figured it out already, communication with Iguro sucks. I mean, it just, sucks. You will have a better time communicating with Kaguramura if you rely on emotional discussions to cultivate a relationship. I just imagine that the little noodle helps the best he can.
However, for Iguro, he doesn’t have a fondness for words, placing a strict importance on actions. There will be no fluff, nor bedside manners when it comes to more serious matters. although his compliments are genuine. really, he just prefers to allow you to carry the majority of the conversation.
That being said, he is not one to leave room for misunderstandings to foster between you. He’d rather press into the topic firm and straightforward than allow you to believe for one moment he would ever betray you. As such, Obanai is not compromising. In fact, you will find that to a majority of disputes, he is not willing to yield. Nor admit fault.
Confrontation in a relationship has a way of capitalizing on his weaknesses in communication, and as such, he fumbles and often feels strangled by his own thoughts as he struggles to piece them into a cohesive sentence. Will be ridiculously tight. Rigid as though he is presenting a case to a jury.
Truthfully, most fights and discussions can be navigated fairly easily as long as you are willing to speak literally no metaphors please!, and keep the discussion short. It really will go quite a long way in ensuring you are on the same page. Even better is that it allows Iguro to apply his need to fix it skills in a way that benefits the both of you.
The Serpent Hashira has a tendency to take slights or criticisms fairly hard. an attribution as to why he does not like Giyuu, and as such, it’s important to note that Iguro is rather sensitive to outside forces impending into your relationship. He naturally views any spectators with immediate suspicion, and for the most part, he is able to logically sort it out.
Remind himself that you have never given him cause to doubt, but should his thoughts lead him astray, it’s likely something that he will internalize rather than discussion. He is protective though.
Fiercely so. While he may not be as possessive as one would expect. I mean, you expected it right? In reality, Obanai greatly respects your autonomy, and values your opinions and decision making skills. That is not to say that he will accept everyone you invite into your circle. you can get along with them; doesn’t mean he has to.
But his protective instinct is inherently high. He knows what lurks beneath the hearts of humans, and how fickle they can often be. If he suspects that your new friend may conceal hidden intentions, he will not hesitate to act. To shield you from the horrors of the world, of demons, and human flesh. He will without a moment’s notice, place himself between you and death.
It’s natural to consider if a family is in the future, and truthfully, I just see Obanai avoiding biological children to the greatest of his capabilities.
On one hand, it’s the fact that he was never given a parental figure, or treated in the way befitting of a child, and as such, Iguro is confident that he would not know what to do with a little bundle.
On the other hand, the Serpent Hashira is so disgusted by his on bloodline, desperate to scratch off his own flesh as a means of escape, that an intentional blood child is out of the cards. and trust me, he will work hard to prevent it.
Though should the fates intervene birth control of this era is fault, or if he has just picked up a child that clings to him during one of his missions. I believe that Iguro would not shirk his responsibilities.
Rather, I believe he’d make for a rather supportive and encouraging parent. Not the type to place high expectations and demands upon those in his care, but rather, just provide love and support and protection. I can even see the Serpent Hashira enjoying the little bundle in his arms with great trepidation.
Anxious at how little one can be, new to the world. Pure. Obanai would naturally gravitate towards diapering, potty training, and soothing the child at all hours of the night. Delicate to teach them games, and self-defense, cook them meals, and tend to boo-boos, but he will shy away from the emotional demands.
he’s giving you late nights, you can handle the tears.
As you have already been clued into, Obanai is a master at expressing love through more practical applications. Acts of services is his go to in order to prove his dedication to you, and he is not one to shy away from any opportunity to express his love physically.
You can expect that he is more than willing to take over the dinner duties upon noticing the exhaustion on your features. To rub your temples, when you have mentioned a headache. To draw a bath when you are fatigued, or dirty. In a surprising way, Obanai is a natural care taker. go figure.
Initially, if you have a preference for acts of physical intimacy to express affections, you will find yourself disappointed, and abandoned. He just isn’t comfortable with having his space invaded upon your initial match, or in public.
However, as time goes on, you will find that he is very willing to grasp your hand in a crowd he doesn’t want to lose you he claims, or allow his shoulder to brush against yours in a restaurant, to catch the strands of your hair, and fan you in the heat of summer. In a well-developed relationship between the two of you behind closed doors, you will find that he will more than make up for the absence of his touch.
Quick to wrap himself around you in an embrace, to claim you. You will have to beg him to release you. but do you really want to?
For fairly obvious reasons, if you have a preference for quality time, his affections may be hit or miss for you. On the one hand, he genuinely enjoys the chance to be around you.
Doing absolutely nothing if you so desire. Curled into one another, or reading books within fingers reach. Watch the leaves dance across the veranda, snuggled into a blanket with tea, but on the opposite end, Obanai needs his space.
He’s a frequent flyer of solitude, and as such, there will be times where you will struggle to balance your needs with his own. It can be a delicate balancing act that leaves you both frustrated.
Take it one day at a time, and savor the moments that he provides you. They’re genuine, and uninterrupted.
Words of Affirmation will also be a stumble, but not right ignored. While Iguro is not the type to express his love in a verbal paragraph, you will find that he is fairly forth coming with his compliments. his face is red as yours.
Yet he will drop compliments on you out of the moment, often leaving you blindsided and reeling from the heat of his gaze. They are far and few between, but they are honey laced truths that he dares to share with his resolve. the hint of all he leaves unsaid burning your insides.
Iguro is not a bad gift giver, however it’s best to limit your expectations. He is not the sort to bring home lavish perfumes. he hates the scent that dares to taint your odor. nor is the type to bring home outlandish accessories.
Too many embellishments obscuring your natural beauty, nor is the type to bring home a ridiculously large bouquet, but this doesn’t mean that Obanai will skip over the sentiment all together.
Rather, Iguro is a master of sweet gifts. Simple pleasures. A small sweet wrapped in a delicate cloth. A simple hair pin that captivated your beauty. Flowers he handpicked upon his journey home. A Small dragonfly pin that matched your eyes perfectly. His gifts will never obscure your natural beauty, each item selected with care.
The reality is to be loved by Iguro is to know a love that will transcend time. It will endure loss, and distance. Heartache, and torture, it will endure the tests that the world will throw at it, and the punishments of the night. It will lend itself to tender touches, and gentle gazes. It is patient as it is kind, never asking for more than you wish to give. Only going where it is you lead, through meadows, through forest, and mountains, to depths of the sea, it will follow you whereever it is you shall go. It is compassion through strife. It is delicate and as plush as the press of his lips. Fragile as his features revealed beneath the moonlight. Eyes that avert shyly before being lured back to your side. Docile as the way it leans upon your shoulders. It is simple as the touch of the waves upon the sand. Affectionate as the sky that shatters beneath day break. The reveal of a small smile that falters to age. The curl of his fingers through your hair, soothing ends as his mixed matched gemstones eyes, one of citrine, and the other of alexandrite gaze up with you revealing the depths of his devotion. The vulnerability of his cheek curled into your lap, a shoulder to bear your burdens such is that of his love.
If you will have him.
In this life.
And the next.
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A quick romance story shitpost for my main babe Obanai simp needs!
🐍💜- Giggling Mess; Iguro Obanai x Jokester! Reader
The Hashira are surprised that somebody like the Serpent Hashira, Iguro Obanai would be interested in somebody like you, the giddy jokester Ice Hashira. You are total opposites of each other;
he’s unforgiving and serious, you’re bubbly and light-hearted. He can’t stand humour whilst you live off humour
But yet, Obanai finds himself falling for you harder and harder each time he sees you and his intense love for you is so obvious to all the Hashira… except the one where it matters the most… Dokusha
Obanai adores you, your adorable oneliners makes him crack a uncontrollable smile underneath that mask and roll his eyes. He loves how much of a jokester you are, nothing is serious to you and he wouldn’t trade your personality for the world
No matter that if it came off as annoying or not at times
Obanai does wonder sometimes if you even know how dangerous and intense your Hashira career actually is. You flaunter it around like it’s simply a work skill, not a massive life-changing responsibility
That must be why Obanai likes you so much, you never let the hell of the Hashira training nor the general situation damage you. He idolises your beauty, on both spectrums
You let loose your soft laughter, your goofy grin never fading. Tengen pushed back the gem-decorated headband over his head with a sassy smirk that you felt yourself laugh more at your friend’s silliness as you two stood next to each other nearby the flashy wooden Minka of the Master in the shining sunlight
Obanai felt his gut churn in fuming jealousy at the sight before him. You and Tengen match each other very well, you’re both playful loveable doofuses and it made Obanai feel inferior
He wasn’t your nor any woman’s ideal man; he wasn’t tall nor handsome nor so muscular, he didn’t laugh at your jokes or enjoy comedy, he didn’t laugh at all. Wouldn’t you prefer somebody like Tengen? Did he have to become like you to have a chance?
“I bet you 20 yen that you can’t make Iguro laugh” Tengen chirped in suddenly, plucking out a single paper Yen from the hidden pockets on his uniform pants and waved it in front of your face. You grinned, leaping up in a small hop in your step
“I accept! If I win, I get that 20! If I lose, you get 40!” You remark cheerfully, ignoring Tengen’s shifting expression and hopping off without another word. You didn’t hear Tengen’s open disagreement over you giving him double of what he originally bet, you didn’t care! You were a gifter anyway
You smile and arrived in front of the all-too- familiar tree of the Master’s huge backyard, where you found a single wild Iguro Obanai occupying it. In the moment, he was reading a parchment of paper. You pouted out in curiosity moments after as you approached the dark bulky trunk, touching the scratchy skin and internally calculated how you’d scale it
In a second or so, you managed to bounce up the large thick plant and to the stocky tree branch where the monochrome striped haori Hashira laid flat on his back, the snowy snake wrapped around his collarbone you knew as Kaburamaru coiled upwards from his laid-down position on the man’s shoulder and noticed your F/C zori
You fell to your knees and smiled cheerfully at the snake. “Heya!” You howl happily, waving at the serpent. His silted rose red eyes widened in shock
The sound of your voice made Obanai lunge upright defensively and nearly fling the paper away. He turned in the direction of the words with clenched fists but the slight panic and intent annoyance on his figure faded in no time. Thank the gods, it was only you
He would have been beyond furious if he was anybody else bothering him during the opportunity he is using to relax
You slammed your palms down onto the thick branch in front of you with that signature humorous grin of yours. Obanai jolted back in a mixture of defensiveness and confusion. “What did the grape say when it got crushed? Nothing, it just let out a little wine!”
You changed your goofy grin to a cheeky smirk, sitting down properly with a pleased sigh but your confidence almost drooped when you noticed that Obanai kept a frown
You lightly stuttered as you cracked another joke with that unchanging whimsy smile. “I know the boy who uses Thunder Breathing. My, isn’t his skills so shocking!”
You smirk delighted, keeping your eyes closed briefly but when they draw open, your heart nearly stopped. Obanai was still frowning, not a single ounce of his face had shifted
You were running out of time! You almost felt like panicking as your brain fumbled over to come up with another more funny joke. “A crazy wife says to her husband that moose are falling from the sky. The husband says; it’s reindeer!”
You openly giggle under your breath for a bit, just hoping he’d laugh alongside with you. Obanai looked at you unbothered, his tough glare basically said ‘can you shut up?’
“O-oh… sorry, then” You softly apologise to him, despite the fact he hadn’t spoke a word, looking away and cupping your cheeks with your palms in defeat with your body arched as you learn forward. You sat in front of him, your white-to-icy blue fade snowflake-patterned thigh-highs hugged your legs and made the blushed plush skin warm
How convenient that those socks you wore so proudly are from the same man you were trying so desperately to make laugh; Obanai himself
The uncomfortable silence was killing you and it went on for seconds too long. Well, until Obanai begun speaking, alerting your attention onto him. What was he gonna say now? You were quite curious as you kept your eyes firmly on him
“Did you hear about the restaurant on the moon?” Obanai asks in a melodic tone, you crane your head and body back up with a confused expression
Moon? A restaurant? Is this a new place his best friend Mitsuri mentioned or something. You felt a bit out of the loop, why didn’t you hear about this sooner? You spoke in a confused stutter. “N-no? Wha—“
“I heard the food was good but it had no atmosphere” Obanai gazed at you, his mismatched eyes soft and sparkling with what you felt as love bleeding out. You bit your bottom lip, trying your best to stifle your laughter but it failed
In a matter of seconds, you were laughing and laughing so much, Obanai’s heart almost leaped to space at the scene in front of him. You look so simply cute in your little giggle fit
Choking on sizzling out giggles through your words. “W-w-where d-did you— g-get that one?” You bursted in a voice heavier than what you planned, your lungs burning and screaming out for air as you were laughing too much to breathe deeper than quick sharp breathes
“I made it up” Obanai responded in a kinda blank style. Kaburamaru coiled to face Obanai with a tilt of his smaller head. He seemed as confused as you were. You could have sworn he got closer to you
“You made it up?! That was amazing! As a jokester myself, that was so funny! I loved it!” You practically sung fearless praises as Obanai kept looking at you, his brain internally skipping over convulsions and screaming back at him how you enjoyed his efforts
“How many jokes you do make behind our backs? Tell me all of them! Please!” You chirp cheerfully, bouncing in place with excitement and wonder glazing over those pretty eyes Obanai felt his face burst into flames just looking at you
Obanai sighed softly, attempting but failing to ease his nerves. He briefly kept his heterochromatic eyes closed to recollect his composure but he opened with newfound confidence and looked back into your eyes
“They say nothing lasts forever, so would you be my nothing?” Obanai remarked still as calm, your heart dropped and your cheeks burned in one smooth motion. A pickup line, not just any pickup line, a really really cute pickup line. W-wait! Was he trying to hit on you?
You thought intently and quickly, hoping you didn’t look uncomfortable or freaked out in the moments as Obanai watched you in suspense and you decided on the whim. Why not, let’s go for it. It wasn’t like you didn’t like Obanai
You quickly propped back onto your feet whilst crouched and waddled over to sit right next to him, not speaking anymore and your smile smaller than the usual big goofy grin you’re known for. Falling back onto your sitting posture, you were mere inches away from him
“Did… you hate that… or something?” Obanai asked visibly uneasy and with nervous eyes, clearly a bit confused by your actions all at the same time. You have singlehandedly made Obanai the most confused he has ever been in his entire life in this mere hour
You kept up your quiet facade as you leant to press a kiss on his cheek and drape your hand atop his. Leaning back elegantly, you noticed how Obanai’s face exploded into a bright rosy red and his beloved snake Kaburamaru basically danced in a wiggle on the air to meet his eyes
You let out a more playful toothy grin this time as Obanai struggles to keep his eyes on you any longer, the two-tones of yellow and turquoise shooting everywhere else around him. He was so timid and it made you simply livid!
How could a man so cute be even cuter? You always asked but now, you know exactly how
“I’d love to be your nothing~”
Sorry if it’s bad
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