Il Cielo dei Tre Regni
by Lunar Wave
Disclaimer: This story borrows the setting and characters of the Koihime†Musou series and borrows multiple elements from Katekyo Hitman Reborn. I own neither series as they both belong to their respective owners. Also, considering Koihime†Musou could be considered a fanfic of the Three Kingdoms, I'd like to say I don't own anything related to the stories of the Three Kingdoms.
Warning: This chapter has a lot of names of Non-KM-Canon Characters. I don't expect anyone to remember them, not even me. But there will be a lot of names.
-()-
Doubts and Alliance
-()-
"Uncle Enma, you said that you and father fought before?"
"Ah, I hoped you had forgotten about that… I didn't mean to tell you about that event."
"So?"
"It's fine, now. There's nothing to be said. There was a misunderstanding, and I ended up assuming the worst of Tsuna and of Vongola, so I ended up leading an assault on the Vongola." The man ruefully rubbed his head. "We broke the Vongola Rings, Tsuna fixed them into the Vongola Gear. Then they beat us in a fight presided over by the Vindice."
"There's a lot there… wait, the Vindice was involved?"
"Vongola Primo and Shimon Primo both made an oath where both sides will not ever fight each other. A promise made in front of the Vindice. A show that the bond between Vongola and Shimon is strong."
"I… is that so?"
"I regret not listening to Tsuna. I regret not giving Tsuna more chances. If it never happened, maybe this guilt I feel would never exist." The red-haired man smiled ruefully. "You're lucky, Kazuto. When you inherit Tsuna's position, you will have the backing of the strongest Earth Flame users in the world. Because Vongola and Shimon will always be on the same side of a conflict. The alliance born from the Oath Flame remains strong, and will remain strong, at least through your generation."
"What do you mean?"
"Do you think Mikoto will ever betray you, Kazuto?"
"No. I don't think she'll even consider it."
"Good. Good." Enma nodded, as he finally stood up. "Now, I believe your father's meeting with Reborn should be over soon."
"Thanks for your time, Uncle Enma."
"Promise me, Kazuto. Value your allies. The reason why Shimon and Vongola had a falling out is that someone pursued a future of pure strength with no allies. But that is wrong. Alliances, friendships, bonds. Those are some of the most important parts of our lives, of being human. You can be strong all you want, but if you don't have anything to protect, then your strength will only be self-satisfaction. And if you are ever too weak to fight, then you'll have someone to push you along."
"… Is that another way of saying: Find my Guardians?" Kazuto's deadpan comment caused a laugh to escape the man's lips.
Vongola and Shimon are the strongest allied families in the mafia. The Vongola are the strongest users of the Flames of the Sky. The Shimon greedily hoard the users of the Flames of the Earth. When it comes to the dark underbelly of their world, no one would be able to deny their influence.
This bond, ten, no, eleven generations in, will only serve their families to grow greater. The nature of Guardians.
-()-
Ryuubi Gentoku,
Enshou Honsho has called for a gathering of warlords,
to end Toutaku's tyranny in the Imperial Capital of Rakuyou.
In honor of our alliance, I ask that you aid me in taking back the capital.
I hope for a favorable response.
Kousonsan Hakukei
-()-
"So first, a vote. Do we join or not?" Sawada Kazuto asked the group.
"Hawawa… shouldn't we discuss the merits first before making a decision?" Shokatsuryou Koumei asked in a slight panic.
"Isn't it obvious?" Kan'u Unchou asked impatiently.
"We have to help the people in the capital!" Chouhi Yokutoku said with an immediate answer.
"We can't leave them behind to suffer, after all!" Ryuubi Gentoku agreed with her sworn sisters, "Besides, Pairen-chan is asking us for help. Surely it's only right we help?" Ryuubi Gentoku asked, looking at the summons.
"Is Toutaku actually a tyrant though?" Chouun Shiryuu asked, standing off to the side, warily looking at the letter.
"There's been whispering through the merchants, but nothing concrete. None of our informants in the capital has sent over news…" Houtou Shigen said. "Which is in itself more troubling than anything."
"Eh, we have spies in the capital?" Chihou, formerly known as Chouhou, asked.
"Y-yes. Kazuto-sama and Touka-sama properly signed off on it…"
"For us rulers, information is our greatest weapon." Kazuto nodded, while Touka could only look away awkwardly. "Of course, the question is whether the information is faulty in the first place."
"Are you saying Kousonsan's information is faulty?" Chouun Shiryuu asked.
"Of course not." Kazuto sighed. "But without a report from our own informants that corroborate their statements, we don't have a solid ground to justify our actions."
"But if people are suffering, is it not our prerogative to help them?" Aisha asked.
"Of course it is!" Touka quickly nodded. "We might no longer be a volunteer army, but our roots are there."
"Then what's the problem?" Rinrin asked.
"Nothing. It's just hard to commit to something that we know nothing about." Kazuto replied. "Well, when there's smoke, there's usually fire. I suppose we should just continue assuming Toutaku is a tyrant as the rumors say."
Rinrin asked, "Why weren't we called to help in the first place?"
Sei shrugged, "It can't be helped that Enshou would disregard us. This group isn't some massive army."
Touka nodded, "We're just magistrates right now…"
"Who barely have our domestic affairs in order." Kazuto finished for her, although he doubts that that's what the girl had in mind, as everyone there laughed awkwardly in turn. "I wouldn't blame Enshou for overlooking us."
"So, what do we do?" Touka repeated.
"So what's the decision?" Sei asked. "The sooner I can go to Hakukei-dono to tell our answer, the sooner she can prepare to welcome us as part of her army."
"We did sign a contract to help her in times of need." Touka nodded.
"There's something else that we should consider first." Shuri interrupted. "Whatever the result of this campaign will be, it would still show that the empire is fragmenting. Is it not best to remain here and consolidate power?"
"… Fine. Let's make a list of advantages and disadvantages for both staying here and joining the alliance." Kazuto nodded, "Shuri, Hinari, can I leave it to you?"
""Yes!"" Shuri and Hinari nodded.
-()-
Advantages of joining the alliance:
+ Potential meeting with the Emperor, Kentei.
+ Potential fame from making accomplishments, thus resulting in possible strength increase.
+ Meeting various other warlords joining in the alliance and learning of their character.
+ Potential alliances formed between the other warlords.
+ Strengthening of alliance with Kousonsan (provided she joins the alliance)
Disadvantages of joining the alliance
- Loss of soldiers.
- Potential death of friends
- Potential misinformation, resulting in not being on the right side of the war, thus taking a blow to credibility as bringers of peace.
- Potential antagonizing of other warlords, due to the common birth of leaders. ("I'll keep it to a minimum." Kazuto grumbled.)
- Potential for the discovery of Chihou, whose former affiliation would leave much to be desired. ("I just need to stay here in the territory, right? Then it's fine." Chihou grimaced.)
Advantages of remaining in the territory:
+ Prevent the disadvantages of joining the alliance.
+ Chance to build up strength, while the most influential warlords (Enshou, Sousou, and Kousonsan) are not in the area.
Disadvantages of remaining in the territory:
- Lose chances to gain the advantages of joining the alliance.
- Possible souring of relationship with Kousonsan.
- Possible use of the event's achievements against our territory.
-()-
"That should be it." Shuri finished.
"Of course, we also have another option," Hinari added. "I could remain here in the territory with Chouseihei, Sosou, and Chihou-chan and build up our territory that way, while all of you go there."
"Hinari-chan… but if you do that, your name won't be –"
"Shuri-chan. I'm not here to make a name for myself. I'm here to help Master and Mistress." Hinari patiently said. "Besides, Shuri-chan is the one who can light her ring between the two of us. It's only fair that you stand at the side of our master."
"Rings?" Chouun asked, "I thought that you haven't distributed the rings just yet, Milord?" A sly smile appeared on her face to which Kazuto only gave a withering stare.
"You see any rings on anyone else's fingers aside from mine and Touka's?" Kazuto replied. "Then you have your answer." Shuri, Hinari, Aisha, and Rinrin all felt an empty feeling on their fingers at this casual remark.
Touka decided to change the topic immediately, "Kazuto-kun, you mentioned something about us being famous people in your world. What does your world say about Toutaku?"
"I won't judge Toutaku based on what Dong Zhuo was like," Kazuto stated. "After all, I'm not judging how the Chou Sisters are compared to the Zhang Brothers, am I?" Chihou flinched, as well as everyone else, though in varying degrees.
"Yeah, sorry, that was a bad question." Touka nodded. "I suppose heaven isn't likely to have all the answers, I guess."
"Judging by your answer," Sei pointed out, "Toutaku was most certainly a tyrant in your history, then?"
Kazuto reluctantly nodded, "Yes. Dong Zhuo was characterized as being a cruel dictator who used his position as Chancellor of State to take control of the empire."
"What did the Ryuubi of the time do?" Touka asked.
"Uncertain. Historically, Liu Bei was never recorded to have been there in the first place." Kazuto sighed, "The next time Liu Bei appeared, it was… well way after the campaign against Dong Zhuo. But another account, a more legend-based account claims that the three sworn siblings were there and aided in the campaign."
"Not going to tell us the outcome?" Sei asked.
"Do you really want to know the outcome?" Kazuto asked, and everyone hesitantly looked back. Touka eventually nodded, so Kazuto continued. "Okay. Fine. The alliance pushes Dong Zhuo to a corner but didn't close off his escape. Dong Zhuo had sacked the capital, brought the emperor to Chang'an, and established his rule there."
"Umm…" Chihou raised her hand, "Chang'an being…?"
"Presumably, Chouan," Shuri replied, causing Kazuto to nod in reply. "Makes sense. That city is sometimes referred to as the western capital. Rakuyou is the better defensive location, but…"
"A strategic retreat there… It seems the Toutaku of history is shrewder than expected." Hinari frowned.
"See why I didn't want to talk about my knowledge?" Kazuto sighed. "Now all of you are imagining something bad about a person none of you have ever seen." Everyone flinched, before nodding. "At the very least, are you sure, Hinari?" Returning to Hinari and her declaration earlier. "About staying here rather than coming along? I'd much prefer it if you were with us if I have to be honest."
"I'm grateful for your thoughts, but this is a better option for us." Hinari shook her head. "Besides, Rairai-chan and Denden-chan will be here to help me." Seems Hinari trusts the two… but really, only Aisha needs to sign off on them, and Aisha's reluctance is holding them back.
"If that's what you want then, I suppose it's fine." Kazuto sighed, "As for our decision: since Kousonsan asked us, we're obligated to be there for her anyway. After all, mutual aid treaty." Touka nodded emphatically. "How about we get a few more details from her?"
"I suppose you want me to ask about Toutaku then?" Sei nodded.
"I suppose Kousonsan-sama would have more information." Aisha nodded. "Kazuto-sama, thank you for sharing your knowledge with us."
"As long as we act on just reasons," Kazuto replied, with a small smile. "I would hate to have to k… fight an innocent person." Kazuto's eyes twitched slightly. Touka spotted it and nodded.
"… who's in charge of sleeping with Kazuto tonight again?"
"Phrasing!" Kazuto barked out but was ignored.
"Me." Chihou raised her hand.
"Be careful. He might be a bit jumpier tonight…" Touka received a nod in response from the girl, as Kazuto balefully looked at the two.
"It's the morning, Touka. I doubt this trauma would last till tonight… And you're exaggerating my issue! This is like my Dying Will Mode again, except you do weird things instead of just stopping me from working hard!"
"You said that last time too."
"This really isn't the solution to my problem." The mischievous smile that appeared on the girl's face clearly implied one thing. He doesn't get a choice, either way. "Great. You really are trying to get me dependent on you girls."
"You rely on yourself too much, in my opinion, Kazuto-kun."
"What does that even mean?" Kazuto asked, and he only received laughter in response. Everyone else soon joined in. He sighed, closing his eyes, letting their laughs comfort his heart. As long as his friends stand by his side, he'll live with this sin.
"Alright, everyone, start preparing to head out in two days. I want supplies for the trip accounted for by the end of the day, as well as any soldiers we can muster."
-()-
"So, what has your group decided on?" A red-haired lord, wearing white armor, asked as she sipped some tea served to her.
"My group, Hakukei-dono?" Sei asked, standing in the presence of the one that she's supposed to represent.
"Are you saying you aren't the least bit interested in joining Touka-chan, Shiryuu?" Kousonsan slyly looked at her.
"Are you trying to push me off to your junior student?" Sei asked, amused.
"You and I both know that my officers don't see eye-to-eye with you." Kousonsan smiled.
"I suppose a new group like Gentoku-dono's is certainly much more willing to accept outsiders." Sei nodded.
"It's not just that." The red-head lord sighed, "Touka-chan has always been more trusting than others… I want someone by her side that can prevent her from trusting the wrong people."
"… Do you suspect Kazuto-dono?" Sei asked sharply.
"… A bit. Speaking with him, I can tell he's genuinely a good person. He wears his emotions on his sleeve, and I can tell that he gets angry whenever one of his own gets mistreated by anyone." Kousonsan smiled. "But the way he inserted himself into Touka's life is most certainly questionable."
"Maybe the fact that he's the messenger from heaven has to do with that charisma?" Sei asked.
"Maybe," Kousonsan replied. "Or is it witchcraft, I wonder?"
"Kazuto-dono's flames are certainly beautiful enough to be so." Sei nodded. "But if that was the case, why would he freely teach Gentoku-dono how to use those flames?"
"He does?" Kousonsan asked, surprised.
"He's even started teaching the other members. I haven't entered yet, due to my affiliation with you, but the offer is clear." More than a few times she saw Kazuto look lazily in her direction when everyone else was concentrating. He made a small tap on the ground in her direction before lazily looking back to the others. She was welcome to come in, as far as Kazuto was concerned.
"That… is interesting."
"Have you asked Gentoku-dono? You should have had enough time during their stay here when we were waiting for the summons that never arrived."
"I did." Kousonsan nodded. "And the words she said was, If Ihadn'tmet Kazuto-kun, Idon'tthink I would have come this far. What do you think, Sei?"
… Sei was surprised at this. They've been referring to each other by Style Names, but they most certainly have exchanged True Names. For her to call her by her True Name… "I think Gentoku-dono is most certainly underestimating her own virtues. Even Kazuto-dono believed that she would have risen up, with or without him."
"Hongou said so? That's a surprise." Kousonsan blinked. "You spoke with him on this topic?"
"I asked him as to why he chose to help Gentoku-dono." Sei nodded. "He answered that he wanted to see where her journey leads."
"… That's it? And you believe that to be it?"
"I think the issue is that you haven't seen how much Kazuto-dono relies on Gentoku-dono as much as she does him."
"Huh?"
"Kazuto-dono still hasn't gotten over the incident with Chouhou."
"Ah… Right, Hongou was the one who slew Chouhou, I suppose. I apologize that I misattributed the kill to Touka-chan."
"Kazuto-dono doesn't care either way. Anyway, ever since, he had required others to sleep in the same vicinity as himself to rest properly, although he would insist otherwise."
"Trauma from his first kill… but what does this have to do with his reliance on Touka-chan?"
"Hmm… I suppose I'll just let you see it for yourself. It's not as convincing if it was just my word. But, Pairen-dono. I once accompanied Touka-sama to meet her mother. Her mother had only listened and smiled at all the things her daughter told her. Not once did she try to dissuade her daughter from Kazuto-sama. Her mother had met Kazuto-sama. If her own mother believes that Kazuto-sama won't lead her daughter astray, is it not fair that you too should give Kazuto-sama a chance?"
"… You seem to be very defensive of the boy. Have you not fallen into his trap yourself?"
Sei laughed, "That's rather rude. And I think you've become paranoid. Is it because he called you kind the first time you met?"
"W-what?" Kousonsan blushed.
"Pairen-dono, please remember that I was there when he immediately deduced your nature just by hearing of what you did to protect the territory where your dear friend sat. That you were kind."
"G-guh…"
"Is it not your own feelings coupled with your own paranoia?"
"I get it, I get it!" Kousonsan yelled, "I won't continue with this line of questioning!"
Silence took the room over, as Kousonsan panted heavily, from overexerting herself.
"I believe that we should get back to the original topic." Sei chuckled. "Do you have any information on Toutaku? That's what I'm here for, after all."
"Outside of the information sent by Enshou? Nothing else." Kousonsan shook her head. "It's all rather strange, to be honest. Information on the capital should be a lot more widespread. But no information coming from my informants in the capital have come recently…"
"Really? So, are you going?"
"Of course." Kousonsan nodded. "I've already received reports that Sousou Moutoku, Enjutsu Kouro, and Batou Jusei are coming, and if those people are coming, then they must have a good idea that the reports are real."
"… Is Enjutsu not a given, considering her cousin's there?"
"Actually, I was more referring to the fact that she will be bringing Sonken Bundai's group with her."
"… Oh? The Tiger of Koutou herself?" Sei nodded. "I suppose such a gathering of well-known individuals would certainly spike interest. If I recall correctly, Enjutsu did make an alliance pact with her."
"It's a bit similar to our group's relationship, yes." Kousonsan nodded. "Although I am uncertain if they do have amicable relations with each other."
"Considering the attitude that Enshou had, I can only hope that Enjutsu is more tolerable," Sei replied.
"Ahaha." Kousonsan nodded, smiling. "So, what about your group?"
"To be honest, your answer is actually enough for us to go… we're worried that we are being misled, especially with the lack of information coming from the capital."
"So, your group hasn't heard anything either then." Kousonsan nodded.
"I think we'll join if only to support your army." Sei nodded. "Of course, the final say is with the lords, but we pretty much all agreed that we would join as long as you're there too."
"You're putting quite a bit of faith on my shoulders there." Kousonsan grimaced. "You believe that there's misinformation afoot?"
"Enshou is our only source of information. That is worrisome, no matter what. A communications blackout with the capital should be impossible, yet there has been no news from the capital since Toutaku's promotion as Chancellor of State." Sei sighed.
"Then, I suppose our agenda would be to find out as much as we can, before committing. We'll bring our armies, naturally, but we won't officially join until we confirm Enshou's information." Kousonsan nodded.
"Just bringing our armies could be seen as an act of allegiance already, don't you think? Why don't we send messengers first?"
"By that point, the chance to join would already be long past us. If we want to join, we need to march, within the week. Besides, there is no guarantee that all the information that the messengers would send is factual unless we talk directly to the source. In the end, Enshou is still one of the biggest warlords in the empire. Even she has to have double-checked her sources."
"… I want to argue against that, if only because I was in her army up until a year ago." Sei deadpanned. "But if you think Enshou is capable of putting that much thought into it, then I'll inform Gentoku-dono of your decision." Sei stood up. "I'll make my way back to them."
"Thank you, Shiryuu."
The two looked at each other for a while before smiling, and soon Chouun Shiryuu left, a single letter laying upon Kousonsan Hakukei's table. A letter of resignation. It sits there unopened, the words not needing to be said.
-()-
In an empty storeroom, that is specifically now being used by the group as the group's Flame Training Room.
"That's it, Touka. Don't make your flame stronger. Just make it remain there."
Kazuto's gentle voice spread through Touka, as she breathed steadily. Behind her closed eyes, she sees a faint orange light in the middle of her sight. That should be her sword. The orange light flickers out every few seconds, but she wills it back there.
"The flame is your will. It will not go against you unless you doubt yourself. The dying will flame is proof of our resolution. That we will strive to do anything as though our lives are on the line. Don't reject it. It won't hurt you."
"I know." Touka breathed. "But I'm still scared…"
"That's natural. Humans are naturally scared of flame. It's beautiful, but its burn hurts. But dying will flame isn't a normal flame. It is your flame. Yours to command. Yours to control. Yours to let loose. Anything it does, it is because you will it to. If it rebels, it's because you doubt yourself." Kazuto's calm gentle voice resonated in Touka. To be honest, Kazuto's words weren't supposed to mean anything. They're just there to assure her that Kazuto is keeping a close watch on her. "Now then. Open your eyes."
Touka breathed, and she opened it. Flame entered her vision. Her sword, the heirloom from her ancestor, was covered in beautiful orange flames. It reached all the way to the blade but then…
"Kya!" She sees her hand on fire, and she instantly dropped the sword. The flame goes out, as it lands on the wooden floor.
"Hahahahahahaha!" Kazuto laughed, "You still dropped it. Even after all I said! Hahaha!"
"Mou! You shouldn't laugh, Kazuto-kun!" Touka grumbled, taking the sword up again. "I have to try again now!"
"Well, it's better than moping." Kazuto chuckled. "Besides, you're the one who asked to try this. Didn't I say that the whole burning sword thing is just for intimidation? If we ever heat the sword enough that it'll burn through the enemy, it will just be ruined by the end of the fight. Or, break at the worst possible moment. Either or."
"You're the one who suggested doing it…" Touka muttered.
"And you're the one who wanted to do it consistently enough to be able to do flame slashes."
"I know…" Touka sighed.
"Well, let's shelve that for now." Kazuto chuckled. "For now, continue training to consistently bring out your flame, without my help. I'll go help the others."
"I got it…" Touka sighed, knowing her one on one time with Kazuto is done for tonight. She turned to the others. "So who are you going to next?"
"I was hoping Aisha. She's the one who seems to have the most trouble right now…" Kazuto looked at the girl, who was in a meditative pose. Her hand is stretched out, but nothing is happening. "Rinrin learned to do it the easiest. Like, look at her…" Rinrin was to the side, spinning her spear around, covered in yellow flames.
"Her sense for this sort of thing is actually amazing, huh?" Touka nodded, with a bit of envy. Rinrin started even later than herself and Shuri, yet she already progressed the fastest.
"I always suspected that she's unconsciously using Sun Flames when she fights, seeing how she just lifts heavy objects and move quickly carrying the things." Kazuto chuckled. "I guess this just proves it." He stretches up, "Go on, focus on your own thing. Ignore the show-off." Touka laughed while sheathing her sword.
Kazuto left the girl as she focused on her ring again. Kazuto walked past Shuri and Hinari, who were both holding hands, and helping the other access their flames. Shuri had already managed to light hers, but Hinari has yet to do so. But it was clear progress was being made. He casually rubbed both heads, and he silently laughed at the sudden eeps of embarrassment the two made.
"How's it going, Aisha?"
"Master! I'm doing just fine!" Aisha jumped at the sudden arrival of Kazuto. "I'm sure I can light this ring soon enough."
"Don't be in such a hurry. Rinrin's abnormal." Kazuto sighed, "Besides, Storm Flames are the most dangerous of the seven. It's only natural that it's harder to use than the rest."
"Y-yes, of course." Aisha nodded, shakily, and Kazuto sees a slight release of tension in her shoulders.
"Dying Will Flames are the manifestation of our will to achieve something as though we're about to die."
"Yes, you already told us that. Every time we come here." Aisha sounds slightly annoyed.
"Look, just take your time. It'll come."
"… What if it was some other flame that I'm suited to?" Aisha asked. "What if I'm a Sun Flame user or a Cloud Flame user… Maybe I should try the other rings instead rather than keep trying the Storm…"
"We could." Kazuto nodded. "But I doubt it."
"Eh?"
"There is no one in the family that is more suited to the Storm Guardian position than you. Rinrin is close. But you are the perfect one in that position."
"But just because I'm suited to the position, doesn't mean the flame is, right?" Aisha asked.
"It'll be fine. You just need to find your will." Kazuto smiled. "That ring suits you. Even if you never light it. That ring belongs to you." Kazuto stood up. "Regardless of what happens, you are going to be our Storm Guardian. Now focus. No more noise. No more doubts. You just need to focus on me."
Aisha nodded, closing her eyes.
In the end, Aisha did not manage to light the ring. But Kazuto could've sworn that it glowed ever so slightly.
-()-
"Chihou-chan, Hinari-chan, take care, okay?"
Ryuubi Gentoku's army, thousands strong, was already beginning to march towards a designated meetup point, where they'll join up with Kousonsan Hakukei's own army and make their way together to Enshou's territory.
Sawada Kazuto looked into the distance, overseeing the march of soldiers. Calmly, he walked over to the others, carefully bringing both Touka's and his own horse to the group.
"Is everything alright, Kazuto-sama?" Hinari asked, confused, as she saw him walking. Shuri broke off from her hug with the fellow student as she smiled at Kazuto.
"Seems everything's going as planned." Kazuto smiled, "Take care, you two. Don't put yourself at a risk that you can't get out of, okay, Chihou-chan?"
"Why me!?" Chihou frowned.
"Well…" Shuri smiled, as Kazuto hoisted her up onto his horse.
"You know why," Aisha remarked in amusement, causing the girl to deflate. Chihou then smiled and laughed.
"I got it, I got it. I don't even have the book anymore. And Renhou's not here, so I don't think I'll be able to do the same things I did last time."
"Just make sure to let Hinari-chan know if you're going to do something more than your usual idol activities," Shuri said.
"But still… won't you need my microphone?"
"Best not advertise our possession of the thing." Kazuto chuckled. "After all, we can't risk getting Sousou a three for three. Just take care of yourself." Kazuto smiled. "Protect the smiles of your fans." The girl smiled back.
Most of the army that was left behind was primarily composed of fans of the idol Chihou… some of which were Yellow Turban Remnants that have long since stopped waving their yellow scarves as if a badge. Now they just wave the merchandise that Sosou sold, which makes the merchandiser very happy.
"Rairai, Denden, take care of them, okay?"
"Of course, Master!" Denden cheerfully replied.
"If we do it well, do we get to join the big meetings and stuff?" Rairai asked, eyes sparkling with anticipation. Basically, the Bi Siblings will move on from soldiers to officers.
"No." Aisha scoffed. "Wait a few more months." Both Rairai and Denden pouted at her.
"Now, now." Touka smiled, "Here's a deal. If Chihou-chan, Hinari-chan, Chouseihei-san, and Kouhei-san give us a report upon return that you did a good job, we'll promote you to an officer."
"R-really? No takebacks, right?"
"Of course." Touka smiled.
"Touka-sama!"
"It's fine isn't it, Aisha-chan?" Touka smiled at her. Aisha pouted before sulking back. Kazuto could only laugh at their antics.
"So, let's start marching before we get cold feet," Kazuto remarked, as he jumped onto the horse that was set aside for him. He could only be thankful that one of his childhood friends is the heir of Cavallone, basically forcing him to learn horseback riding. Although… these horses could do with stirrups.
"Cold feet? Are you implying we are cowardly enough to turn when there could be people in danger?" Aisha asked, with a somewhat exaggeratedly offended tone. But Kazuto could tell that she was only making a joke.
"Yeah, oniichan!" Rinrin laughed, "We decided we're going, so we're going."
"Maybe Kazuto-kun should stay back if he is so scared." Touka smiled, as she climbed onto her horse.
"Oh please, what mean little sisters I have." Kazuto scoffed, "Even if I was scared, I wouldn't run. If anything," He looked at the horizon, to where the alliance is being gathered, "I'll just ram myself harder at it, with my dying will."
-()-
"… There they go…" Chihou murmured. They can no longer distinctly see the four sworn siblings.
"Yeah." Hinari nodded.
"… Shuri-chan is unfair. Getting to ride behind Kazuto-niisan."
"That's! Shuri-chan is more familiar with the place than milord so…"
"Why are you defending Shuri-chan's shrewdness?" Chihou smiled.
"Eh, that's!"
"I suppose you're giving yourself the chance to do the same thing, later huh?" Chihou's smile widened. "Something like 'Shuri-chan, since you did this before, it's my turn!' Something like that?"
"Th-that's!" Hinari's cheeks flushed red as she tried to stammer out a rebuttal.
"I'm just teasing, Hinari-chan." Chihou smiled. "Come on, let's go back. I think Sosou might get a bit angry at me soon if we don't get back soon. Denden-chan, coming?"
"Alright! I'll do my best, so tell Kazuto-sama and Touka-sama that we did a good job, okay?"
"I'll work you hard!" Chihou promised.
"Are we going back too, Hinari-san?" Rairai asked, also eager.
"I suppose I should start preparing myself." Hinari nodded, walking after the idol as they returned to the city hall.
-()-
The travel was tiring, much more exhausting than before, the destination further than before. It was alleviated by joining up with Kousonsan, who welcomed the group, as they continued to march onward.
"So, how's your relationship with Touka-chan going, Hongou?" Kousonsan asked, one evening. ("Pairen-chan! What are you saying!?" Touka complained from the side.)
"The same as before? She just openly crawls into my bed now." Kazuto shrugged. ("Kazuto-kun! Why would you tell her that!?" Touka moaned, burying her face into her hands.
"Milady should focus on not spilling her food," Sei remarked. Neither Kazuto nor Kousonsan made any comment on the event.)
Kousonsan continued. "It seems my fellow student is a lot more forward than I give her credit." ("Why are you two ignoring me!? I know you're hearing me, Kazuto-kun; your mouth is twitching!")
"Any other developments?"
"If you're fishing for a confession, we haven't gone that far," Kazuto said in amusement. "Kousonsan-san is quite a fussy older sister."
"Eh?" Kousonsan blinked, as she recoiled at the remark, her face turning red at the sudden reversal.
"Touka-chan is blessed to have such a kind older sister looking after her."
"What are you trying to say!?" Kousonsan said as she moved back.
"… Is everything alright?" Kazuto asked, worriedly. "You're more tense than healthy. We haven't even gotten to the main camp of the coalition."
"Th-that's… Sorry. I suppose I am a bit worried." Kousonsan shook her head. "Your subordinates trust you quite a lot, don't they, Hongou?"
"Why don't you ask them? It's not like they haven't been listening the entire time." Kazuto gestured.
"Oh, we're allowed to join the conversation now?" Touka said, sulkily. Aisha, Rinrin, and Sei looked amused, as they continued eating food. Shuri had already gone into her own world, reading books, with only the campfire as her light.
"Hoy, Sei. I sure hope that you haven't been sneaking into our drinks and pilfering a few wine bottles." Kazuto smiled. "Otherwise, I might have to cut you off."
"… This is the last one." Sei grumbled as she put away the bottle.
"Good. Because you're taking at least a shift for petty theft." Aisha scoffed.
"My new boss is quite cruel." Sei sighed. "Any way you can get me back, Hakukei-dono?"
"No." Kousonsan lightly replied. "Since Hongou redirected me to you, what do you think? Why do all of you trust Hongou so much?"
Everyone looked at her in surprise, even Shuri raising her eyebrow.
"Kazuto-kun can be a bit mean, but he feels like someone I can trust," Touka said, with no preamble. She's still a bit sore about the whole ignorance event, but it seems that she's not that angry about it.
"Kazuto-sama risks his life for other people." Aisha shrugged. "He didn't have to save that first village, but he still went. And he didn't go after bandits like we did but went to save families."
"Oniichan is strong and willing to fight Rinrin! Also, what Aneja said!" Rinrin cheerfully said.
"He doesn't discard our opinions even though we're young," Shuri replied. "Even though neither of us has any achievements or anything like that." Her response was met with fond smiles, as the more astute members of their group would notice that she was not just speaking for herself, but for Hinari as well.
"He's fun to be around." Sei laughed. "Even now, I'm doing my best just to try and surprise him. I can't ever seem to catch him off guard; he always greets me when I come out into the open to talk to him."
"I suggest that you stop hiding on rooftops. It works for most people because people tend to not look at that height. But it won't work on me. Crowds are more difficult for me to discern people in." Kazuto replied. "Of course, the way you dress automatically stands out. So, I guess you're out of options, miss amateur spy."
"Oh, I'm sure I can catch you off-guard." Sei coyly smiled.
"That's enough, Sei." Aisha interrupted.
"Oh, is Aisha being defensive of-"
"That's enough, Sei," Aisha repeated firmly. Sei merely smiled back.
"If that's the case, then I'll trust you to keep them out of trouble, then, Hongou?" Kousonsan smiled.
"All I can promise is I'll try. Trouble happens to be a constant lifestyle for me." Kazuto sighed. "Fortunately, I haven't had any assassination detection training in a few months, so…"
"Assassination detection training?" Kousonsan asked, confused. Everyone else withered slightly at the words.
"My teacher has a habit of letting assassins for my life through, as part of my training to become a… 'leader of men'." Kazuto said with a sigh. "He'll tell me that I'm being targeted, but not by who, with what, and why. One time, the assassin is a sniper. The solution is simple: learn to dodge."
"I like your boulder story better." Touka told him, an indescribable emotion in her tone.
"… Is your teacher trying to kill you?" The other student of Roshoku looked blankly at the only male near that campfire.
"He says that I'm better off dead than incompetent," Kazuto grumbled. "Of course, the assassin was eventually apprehended by my father, and the one who hired him had his entire family in debt to mine for generations to come." Because as much of a hero Sawada Tsunayoshi is, there's a limit to how many times a family can infringe on the trust he gives others. Or rather, Gokudera Hayato has a limit, and his father just made him lighten the punishment enough that they keep their lives.
"… well… It's hard to say anything about that…" Kousonsan sweatdropped.
"You get used to it," Aisha replied.
"Oniichan's stories are fun." Rinrin just laughs in response.
"… Indeed." Sei seems to recover less quickly than everyone else.
"What punishment did your father give them?" Shuri asked.
"That's your question, Shuri?" Kazuto laughed, amused. "Simply put, their family will not be able to so much raise a weapon on our family without getting the law chaining them up and dragging them to the worst possible jail in the world. It's all under contract too so they can't complain." Raise a weapon against someone for the sake of fame or attention, then feel free to lose your right to it.
"Worst possible jail?"
"The Vindice. The jailors of the criminal underworld." Kazuto replied nonchalantly, although internally smirking as all of them fell into tenseness. Ah, telling horror stories is always classic around campfires, right?
"Jailors… of the criminal underworld?" Rinrin asked, confused.
"Basically, in normal jail, you still get basic rights. Food, and stuff." Kazuto shrugged. "Vindice, on the other hand? Their jails are some of the most inhumane to ever exist outside fiction. Imagine being drugged out for your entire life, hanging inside a tub of water, tied up, with little way out. You can't move. You can't see since no light comes in. You can't hear since no sound comes in. A claustrophobic jail where you'll probably lose your mind first before you even die. They won't let you die, though. You'll live your entire life there."
"… That's so cruel…" Touka grimaced. Clearly, the story disagreed with her on a level well beyond her tolerance. She didn't even react like this about Reborn's antics.
"I wouldn't want that, even on my own enemies." Aisha agreed. "I'd rather just kill them quickly."
"Rinrin too."
"It's not like we wanted to do it either." Kazuto sighed. "But my family's situation is already way too complex without dealing with some small name families trying to stick their nose in it. The Vindice offered. We didn't reject it."
"Complex, huh?"
"There are only two potential heirs to my father: me and my sister. Needless to say, anyone who wants to marry into my family, and be the next best thing to the head of the family, will either want to marry me or kill me and marry my sister."
"… if they kill you, won't that just make your father reject the family outright?"
"Very few people think that far. Shortsightedness is something a lot of people think they don't have." Kazuto replied, to which everyone just nods, uncertain as to why it matters. "Well, it's getting late, and we better start preparing for sleep." Kazuto stretched. Everyone agrees, and they all soon were in their respective tents, sleeping away.
-()-
"That's a lot of soldiers." Touka mused as the group arrived at the location.
"There's more than a hundred thousand here, yes." Kousonsan nodded.
"Most of it is wearing gold armor though… Enshou's."
"You really didn't like your time in Enshou's army, huh, Sei?" Kazuto chuckled.
"I had to wear that heavy gold armor… not only was it tacky, but it also didn't suit my style at all."
"Talk about egocentric." Kazuto scoffed.
"To be fair, a set uniform is ideal for intimidation and unity. Also, it makes it easy for people to tell which side of the conflict you are at." Kousonsan replied.
"Sort of like your horses?" Touka asked.
"Something like that." Kousonsan agreed. "Now come on, Hongou, Touka-chan. We need to speak with Enshou about the reason for the coalition. The rest of you should find a place to camp."
"Shuri, you come with us," Kazuto called.
"Of course, master." Shuri nodded, and the four were soon moving towards the main camp.
The walk there was suffocating. None of them so much as made a sound, a stark contrast to their usual friendly banter. But professionalism won out, and the four silently walked up to the main camp where noise can be heard, which caused a withering look to appear on Kousonsan's face before she schooled it back into a professional stoicism.
"Halt. Who goes there?" A soldier stops them at their approach. A girl with navy blue hair stood in front of the tent.
Kousonsan took point, "Kousonsan Hakukei, Governor of Ryousei. Ryuubi Gentoku and Hongou Kazuto, allies of mine who hold the rank of magistrate. Shokatsuryou Koumei, Advisor to Ryuubi and Hongou. Here to speak with the current leader of the coalition, regarding the news of Toutaku's tyranny."
"… Yes, I heard that your army arrived today, and are currently setting up camp nearby. That would be you, then?"
"If others had come before or after me, I'm afraid I saw no one," Kousonsan replied.
"I will announce your arrival to Reiha-sama." The girl entered the tent.
"… That's Ganryou, one of Enshou's trusted vassals." Kousonsan informed them. "If you ever want to speak with someone from Enshou's camp, always, always try to see if you can talk to Ganryou first."
"Got it." Kazuto nodded, making a mental note of Enshou's True Name: Reiha.
Ganryou soon exits the tent, looking more put upon than she did before entering, "The other warlords are currently inside, but Reiha-sama will meet you now."
"Thank you," Kazuto said, with a smile, causing Enshou's general to mildly blink in surprise.
"Yes, thank you, Ganryou-san." Touka smiled, whereas Ganryou made a tentative smile back to the two.
Kousonsan merely nodded, as she walked in, followed quietly by the other two.
What nice warlords. Ganryou murmured. I guess they are new so it makes sense…
-()-
While Kazuto expected a cacophony, judging by the noises that they could hear from outside, he didn't expect to see so many people here. Around the center table, seventeen were sat.
"… What is this?" Kousonsan asked surprised.
"You entered here without knowing that there is a meeting of warlords? How foolish of you, Hakukei." Enshou snorted. "Take your seats. As you can see, there are still places here."
"I only came to announce my arrival, as well as to receive more information on the situation surrounding the capital," Kousonsan replied. "Our joining the coalition is contingent on this."
"You march your army here, and you still wish to barter on joining? How remarkably boorish. But I suppose that's expected of a country girl."
Kousonsan remained patient as she looked at the room. "It will not do to join a cause that might end with us fighting the wrong battle. I have the important job of driving off the northern barbarians. If Toutaku is certainly a tyrant, then my army and, by extension, my allies' army are here to help."
"And how many soldiers did you bring altogether?"
"Combined, our armies are fifteen thousand strong."
"How meager." Enshou scoffed. Everyone could only dryly look at her.
"Then, would you like for us to withdraw?" Kousonsan asked, already displeased by Enshou's dismissal.
"Reiha, control your tongue. Can't you even welcome new allies without mocking them?" A blonde young girl, barely taller than Shuri, interrupted. "We are not against some miscellaneous mob. We are up against the capital itself; any help we can get is welcome."
"How foolish, Karin. Do you really think some no names would be able to contribute anything?"
"The White Horse General, Kouson Hakukei, is hardly a no name." 'Karin' scoffed. "Her army might be smaller than ours, but, understandably, she had kept some of her own generals and soldiers to guard against the north. I doubt that number is all of them."
Kazuto kept a tight grip on his emotions, knowing that the statement was true. Kousonsan had at least double that amount. In contrast, they had brought nearly all of theirs.
"High praise, from Sou Moutoku." Kousonsan greeted the speaker, nudging Kazuto, as his eyes sharpened at the name. So, this is Sousou. "Can you please inform us as to the situation in the capital?"
"Merchants have come and gone, carrying whispers of tyranny from Toutaku," Sousou replied. "Although your territories are more remote to the capital than ours, surely you would've been made aware of this?"
"Certainly, whispers are heard, but no information from people I trust." Kousonsan nodded. "Does this mean Moutoku-dono has brought back similar rumors as Honsho-dono?"
"But of course, Hakukei-dono." Sousou nodded. "I brought the news of this to Enshou and she corroborated."
Enshou interrupted here, "We then called this gathering together to form the coalition to oust Toutaku from the position of Chancellor of State. A position she did not deserve."
"Did not deserve? Is Toutaku not responsible for the defeat of the Yellow Turban Rebellion in Heishuu?"
"A promotion that she received personally from the Emperor, while everyone else received their promotions from a mere letter." Enshou snarled, "Do you not see how unjust that is?"
"Ah, right, you did march to the capital to complain before. What was the result of that endeavor?" Kousonsan asked.
Sousou scoffed, "She was turned away at the door for not having an appointment."
"That is hardly the story at all." Enshou interrupted, "While it is true that I was turned away the first time, I properly met with Great General Kashin the next. However, that was also the day that the Eunuchs sought to overthrow the Great General. Kashin-sama and Kataigou were greatly injured, forcing me to take the two back to my territory for treatment. Reitei-sama disappeared in the ensuing chaos, presumably slain. Kentei-sama, the new emperor, appointed Toutaku as the Chancellor of State, for nearly failing at the task of protector of the capital. Can you not see the disparity in treatment here?"
"Is there no reason for Kentei-sama to favor Toutaku?" Kazuto asked, finally interrupting.
"What would a newly appointed emperor have in connection to a warlord in the northeast?" Enshou asked, in response, "How foolish of you to interrupt us with such a foolish question."
"What cousin Reiha did doesn't matter anymore right!?" Another young girl, in golden clothing, and blonde hair, like Enshou complained. "Aren't you satisfied now?"
"Indeed, the story seems to paint enough of a picture, don't you agree?" An older, more mature woman, with tanned skin, and pink hair said. Her clothing is remarkably sensual, barely covering her curves. It barely covers her privates, for one thing, giving Kazuto a remarkably clear view of what her breasts are like. They're bigger than even Touka, who already had large breasts for her age. He immediately turned his eyes to the woman's face, where a strange mark on her forehead caught his attention. Best not look anywhere below anymore. This decision most certainly has nothing to do with Touka pinching his side.
"It hurts, please stop…" Kazuto hissed. Touka merely let go, although her smile still refused to reach her eyes.
"Then I suppose my army will stand aside yours." Kousonsan nodded, ignoring the actions of her comrades.
"Hakukei-dono, what is your relation to these three?" Another warlord on the table asked, who seemed more at ease with their presence.
"Ah, Ryuubi Gentoku and Hongou Kazuto are magistrates who've sworn allegiance with me," Kousonsan replied.
"And what right does a mere magistrate have to sit at the same table as us?" Another asks.
"Pardon me, but while they will serve under my army for this battle, they are not my subordinates. Furthermore, Ryuubi Gentoku is an imperial descendant and is here to ensure the safety of the Imperial Kan. We also studied under the same teacher, Roshoku Shikan, who, need I remind you, is one of the generals of the empire."
"And the man and the child?"
"Hongou Kazuto is co-ruler with Ryuubi Gentoku and is her equal in all things. Shokatsuryou Koumei is their advisor for this battle."
"Are we to treat your army and theirs jointly or separately?" A man with a headband asked.
"If you see it fit to treat them separately, I believe it should be fine. Otherwise, they will serve under my banner."
"I see. Similar to Sousou-dono's current status then?"
"Sousou-dono?" Kousonsan asked.
Sousou shrugged, "I am serving under Choubaku's army, due to my lower status in comparison to everyone in this room. However, Choubaku saw it fit to invite me here as well as a seat on the table."
"I'm your friend after all." The girl, who sat next to her, smiled.
"Very well. Welcome to the fold, Kousonsan Hakukei, Ryuubi Gentoku, Hongou Kazuto." The brown-skinned woman in pink revealing clothes smiled, gesturing to the empty seats next to herself. The three nodded and sat near. "My name is Sonken Bundai. I believe this is the first I'm making an acquaintance with you."
"Same here." Kazuto bowed. "It is an honor to meet you as well."
"Well this meeting is not for socializing, so let's speak later. Is that fine, young warlords?" Kazuto and Touka nodded.
"Well then, since our new members are here, let's go back to the initial topic," Enshou exclaimed, causing barely hidden groans to empty out of her allies' mouths.
"But we were actually progressing before!" One muffled voice said. "She really wants to bring it up again?"
"Progressing? No progress can be done if we still haven't decided who the leader of the coalition is!" Enshou declared.
Silence descended in the meeting hall. The veterans around the table merely sighed, looking away. The younger crowd had twitchy eyes, not sure where to comment. The other three were more confused.
"Wait, there isn't even an appointed leader yet?" Kousonsan asked in confusion.
"No one can agree as to who it should be."
"Who are the candidates?" Kazuto asked quickly, "Let's get it over with."
"A neophyte trying to take charge? How laughable." Enshou scoffed.
"I dare not to take charge, but if this is an agenda that needs to be fulfilled, then let's fulfill it quickly," Kazuto replied.
"No one has nominated anyone." Enshou shrugged, "Nor has anyone volunteered either."
"No one!?" Touka exclaimed. "Was it not Enshou who called us all together in the first place? Why is she not the leader?"
"Shall we take that as a nomination for myself?" Enshou asked, with a gleam in her eyes.
Danger signals erupt in Kazuto's mind. Everything in him is screaming. He needs to pivot this discussion, or they'd be in danger.
"My friend Ryuubi was just making an observation." Kazuto's mouth spoke quickly. "It is only natural that people who join later assume that you have already taken charge. After all, it was your summons that Kousonsan had answered. Furthermore, in terms of pedigree, there is no one in this room with a better right to the position. Not only that, but your army also has the highest number of soldiers here."
"Does…" Enshou tried to speak once more but was cut off by Touka.
"That's right." Touka chimed in. "I apologize for my outburst, but I'm afraid that I know little about everyone on this table, aside from my friend Pairen-chan. It simply will not do for me to put forward someone when my knowledge is insufficient."
"But it is clear that you think Reiha is the most suited to the position," Sousou said.
"On the contrary, we believe Kousonsan to be more suited." Kazuto cheerfully replied, catching everyone flatfooted. "After all, she's a friend that we know we can trust with our lives. But that's more because we don't know anyone else here."
"Wh-what are you saying!?" The suddenly nominated Kousonsan exclaimed, "Why am I suddenly being mentioned here?"
"Indeed. Kousonsan-dono, while the army she brought here is small, she is still the one in charge of driving the northern barbarians away, an important task given by the Great General herself." One of the warlords on the table shrugged.
"Haaaah? You believe this plain woman to be better suited than me?" Enshou exclaimed.
"Again, I mean no disrespect, but we don't know you," Kazuto replied. "I've only heard rumors and whispers. This is the first we've met."
"Guh, you barbaric…"
"Can I ask something else? With such a large army, how is the supply chain?" Kazuto asked, "While my army has brought basic necessities, we'd like to know to who we should speak if something went awry."
"I'm the one in charge of supplies." A young blonde girl spoke up. She was wearing golden robes, clearly ill-suited for war.
"Would you mind if you would introduce yourself? We are still unfamiliar with the names of everyone in this room." Touka asked politely.
"Na! I am Enjutsu Kouro. Remember it!"
"It's nice to meet you." Kazuto nodded with a smile before the smile disappears and stares down at the elder En. "Next, are there any battle plans already ongoing? I'd rather not do something that might step on other's toes."
"Some of our armies are beginning to encircle the capital. It's been proving difficult to keep it up." A woman on the table responded, wearing a headband, Kazuto noted. "But we still have not closed off all points. Shisui Pass is still open. Toutaku's army has reinforced that area strongly."
"Is there a plan prepared?" Touka asked, looking toward Shuri to her side.
"I'm afraid not," Bundai replied. "As we said, there is no leader. The people we left to deal with the encirclement right now are our trusted adjutants. And the march into Shisui Pass is too important to not coordinate properly. And that needs someone to take responsibility for leading."
"But if we take too long to end this fight, the longer people would have to suffer!" Touka argued. "We need to march soon!"
"And what of our opponents?" Kazuto asked, "I doubt they'd just stay still patiently as we try to arrive at a conclusion that everyone could agree on."
"They already tried attacking Enjutsu. My forces have warded them off, but it's only a matter of time before they try again." Sonken Bundai affirmed.
"… Great." Kazuto sighed, "So, shall we write out a vote then?" Kazuto asked, pulling out a notebook from his bag. "Who are our candidates?"
"A vote?"
"That's right; a vote. Each person here votes for who they want as the leader. Of course, the person must be someone willing and able to take the position." Kazuto replied. "The one with the most votes will take the position."
"Are you saying my choice is equal to that of yours?" Enshou scowled.
"If you want to do Bigger Army Diplomacy, then nominate yourself." Kazuto scowled.
"… Bigger Army Diplomacy?" A girl wearing a large bow on the back of her head asked confused.
"The leader of a larger army strongarms the smaller army to follow their lead," Kazuto explained.
"Are you accusing me?"
"No. Just explaining the term." Kazuto shrugged, defiantly looking at her. "So, shall we give out the nominations?"
"Well, you've already put forward Kousonsan Hakukei." The woman wearing a headband shrugged.
"I've only arrived… there is no way I can control this group. Not only that, but my army pales in comparison to the rest." Kousonsan replied. Kazuto nodded, lowering his pen.
"Unfortunately, unwillingness to take the position is not a reason at this point." Sousou shrugged. "That's what caused this entire debacle in the first place." She meaningfully looked at Enshou who only looked away. "And while you don't have the same degree of influence here, Kousonsan, you still have achievements to show that you will not be a bad choice. I second Hongou's nomination."
"Grrr…" Enshou grumbled. Kazuto nodded, writing Kousonsan's name.
"… What are you doing?" Sousou asked, seeing his action.
"Writing things down."
"I see no brush on you."
"I like pens. Pens are easier to use." Kazuto waved the tool. "I'll use brushes for official documents, but for the love of God, don't make me use it for scribbling a bunch of notes. I'd sooner use charcoal. Now any other candidates?"
"How did you get that?"
"It was a gift." Technically true. Reborn gave it to him, but it was probably for studying purposes. "Enough about my pen, we can talk about nonsense later." Kazuto impatiently said, "Aside from Kousonsan, is anyone willing to put forward a candidate?"
Enshou looked meaningfully at everyone in the room, especially Choubaku, Sousou, and Enjutsu. All of whom summarily ignored her in favor of studying the pen that Kazuto is twirling on his finger. Sonken seems more intrigued, as she whispered something to a woman standing behind her.
"… You can put yourself forward as a candidate." Kazuto offered. Enshou merely glared at him, to which Kazuto raised his hands in surrender. Best pivot the question, "A leader is expected to take the mantle of deciding the strategy we will implement. What tactic do you propose for the table?" Kazuto asked. Enshou continued to glare at him.
"It will hardly do for a mere member to suggest anything to others," Enshou replied. "We have imperial protectors of various regions of the country. Do you not recognize the others at this table?"
Kazuto winced. This is something he may have overlooked, but Touka immediately took over, "Touken Kyouso, Imperial Protector of Joshuu." Tao Qian Gongzu.Kazuto supplemented the Chinese names in his mind. "Kanhyoku Bunsetsu, Imperial Protector of Kishuu." Han Fu Wenjie. "Ryuutai Kousan, Imperial Protector of Enshuu." Liu Dai Gongshan. "Koushuu Koushu, Imperial Protector of Yoshuu." Kong Zhou Gongxu. She sketched a bow to each, who returned the bow, Touken even giving a friendly smile. Touka returned the smile before turning to Kousonsan with a pleading gaze. It seems her political knowledge only goes so far right now.
Kousonsan nodded, "Very well, I'll introduce the others then." Kousonsan then rattled a bunch of names that Kazuto barely kept up with. His own familiarity with the Three Kingdoms Era lets him know that they are at least all the other members of the original Coalition.
Notable ones are Choubaku Moutaku (Zhang Miao Mengzhuo), the girl sitting next to Sousou. Then there's Batou Jusei (Ma Teng Shoucheng). Both governors and fairly influential people of this era.
"And then there's us… Chief Magistrates of our territory." Touka finished. It seems they really were the lowest rung on the table. Sousou is the next lowest but being the one who helped organize the movement gave her much more substantial power in this room than her station would indicate.
"So, Imperial Protectors, Enshou has put you forward. Will you not volunteer?" Kazuto asked.
The girl with the large bow on her head, Kanhyoku, looked up before shaking her head, "Sorry, but I don't really think I'm suited to it." On some level, she reminds Kazuto of Hinari but lacks the same strength that hid in Hinari's small voice.
The old man, Touken, rubbed his beard before shaking his head, "The honor of leading this band of noble warriors? I believe someone who is still able to fight to take that head." This man reminds Kazuto more of Yamamoto Tsuyoshi. Although old, he still seems relatively strong.
An older girl, Ryuutai, "I'd take the challenge on. But only if others here believe I should."
"To be fair, Kousan-chan," another girl winced, "Honestly, you're a bit too reckless." It seems the two were friends.
"Houshin, aren't you being too frank…" Ryuutai grumbled. Houshin? Then that girl is Bao Xin…
The last Imperial Protector then spoke, "This is getting us nowhere. Just because we have the rank of Imperial Protector of the region, does not mean we have to do it. If anything, we have more to lose than any of you." The man, Koushuu Koushu, "Enshou, take the lead. You are the organizer after all."
"Shall we take that as a nomination?" Enshou asked.
"I could care less who is the leader. I just want this over with." Koushuu replied. Kazuto nodded, writing down the name of Enshou.
"Then that's two candidates." Kazuto sighed, "Anyone else?"
"Hongou Kazuto." Sonken Bundai raised. "What is your stance on this matter?"
"Eh?" Kazuto balked at the sudden question.
"You two are the lowest ranking members on this table. However, if you were to take the lead, what would be your plan?"
"Following Enshou's example, it's ill-advised for me to make such suggestions right now."
"A shame." Sonken shook his head. "I would've wanted to know the stance of the fabled Messenger from Heaven."
The sharp drastic change in the atmosphere was almost unbearable. Everyone's eyes sharpened at that point, hardly able to believe their ears.
"Oh, am I wrong?" Sonken smirked. "While it's mere rumors, they say that the Imperial Descendant has joined forces with a messenger from heaven. That the Mandate of Heaven has denied the claims of the Yellow Turbans."
Kazuto breathed sharply, formulating a response in his mind. It's dangerous if others were to be aware of that side of him. The prophecy. It paints a target on them that he and Touka could not afford. "… Rumors are rumors. Are you saying you believe all you hear?"
"It is already public knowledge that Ryuubi Gentoku is an Imperial Descendant, who recently became a warlord. And yet, you stand here as her equal. That is odd, no matter how you see it. A mere foreigner, her equal? At best, you should be standing behind her, as an advisor, like that girl behind you two. And yet you seat next to us. That Heavenly Messenger is you, correct?"
"That would also explain your clothes and that writing utensil," Sousou smirked. "Your clothes are made from material quite unique to us, so much that it is quite bright. That utensil is capable of writing without an inkwell. That book is made of thin sheets, with neat precise designs that would be near impossible to do for any of us."
"So you caught on as well, Sousou?" Sonken laughed. "Then, Hongou Kazuto, what do you say to that?"
"Naturally, I deny it." There is nothing for Kazuto to gain by affirming her suspicions. "How could someone like me be a messenger from heaven? I am merely a foreigner who found himself in the care of Ryuubi Gentoku."
"Everyone here, have you heard of the prophecy of the Great Sage Kanro?" Sonken asked everyone else. "A heavenly messenger will descend from the heavens to meet an imperial descendant to bring peace to the land. And here we have an imperial descendant with a strange foreigner, standing as equals. Do you still deny it, Hongou Kazuto?"
Kazuto looked defiantly at her, "I do."
"Yet you speak to us as equals, despite your status as mere magistrates. You try to take charge of this meeting, trying to force it to be productive. You defy Enshou, even though, in your own words, she holds the best right to the position of leader. You do not fear retaliation from her, even though she has, again in your own words, has the highest number of soldiers here."
"I merely dislike wasting my time with people who clearly dislike me," Kazuto replied. "I'd much rather push this forward already so that neither of us needs to suffer each other's presence."
"Is that all there is though?"
"I get it. Fine." Kazuto replied with ire in his tone. "I see that I can't convince you to think otherwise. If it helps you, yes, I've heard of the prophecy and am aware of its uncanny resemblance to myself. What is your point? This does not help us decide on a leader."
"On the contrary," Sonken smirked. And Kazuto felt fear. "Why don't you prove it?" Sonken Bundai chuckled. "Messenger of Heaven who came to bring peace?"
Those words struck deep in Kazuto's mind. No. It practically pierced his soul. He should've stayed quiet the entire time. He should've let everything play out. He should've just kept his mouth shut and let everything go as it would. When Enshou was trying to entrap them, he should've just bowed down and kept silent. But years as part of the Vongola make him unable to stand being belittled, mocked, or oppressed. Years of training by Reborn gave him a stubborn tongue that refuses to back down against those who would slight him.
But this wasn't Vongola. Vongola is a powerhouse. A giant. Capable of bending the world around their knees, and spanking it, with little to no consequence. The army under Ryuubi and Hongou is small, weak; incapable of suffering a single loss without wilting away.
They can't afford to be in the spotlight. Not yet. They need time to prepare, to train, to work to be better. There's a reason why he asked Kousonsan to omit his name from the official reports. The title Heavenly Messenger is only a boon in commoner rumor mills. The moment it reaches the ears of those above their weight, people start wanting. Or preparing. As long as he was a relative unknown, the risks would be minimal.
And so, every fiber of his body was screaming, as Sonken Bundai raised her hand, and said the words that spelled the worst for him, "I nominate Hongou Kazuto as the leader of the Anti-Toutaku Coalition."
Goddammit.
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Chapter End
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Chapter Release Date: November 22, 2019
Last Edited: June 12, 2022
s-()-
Beta Reader: Seraphius
Hello everyone, I'm back~
No. You do not need to remember most of these people's names. Be prepared for some of them to be killed unceremoniously offscreen, in a time skip. Aside from the canon eight characters in the room, only a handful would be important enough.
Welp, first diversion from the plot of Koihime Musou, or is it? Maybe my next chapter will start with me denying it happens and Enshou still becomes the leader… Nah, I won't keep you in suspense for longer than a week, but at least expect Kazuto to push back against this nomination.
In the end, Kazuto's own temperament brings him more trouble than it's worth. The question is if it will ever bring him negative effects.
So for now, the thirteenth chapter is done! Originally this was the twelfth, but Chapter 10 was so long that I split it in half. Fourteenth in a week. And by that, I mean I'm holding it back for a week to review it to the point I'm satisfied with it.
The Members of the Coalition
WARNING: THIS IS A LIST OF NAMES THAT YOU DO NOT NEED TO REMEMBER. DO NOT COMPLAIN ABOUT THE SUDDEN CHARACTER BLOAT. MOST ARE ONE-OFF CHARACTERS THAT WILL GO UNNAMED FOR THE MOST PART.
I took the names from an online English translation of Chapter 5 of Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Officially, only seventeen people were listed. Since Sousou is part of the meeting, that bumps up to eighteen. Add our two skies, all together that's twenty people in that room sitting on the table (their attendants sitting behind them). Half+1 female, half-1 male. Naturally, all the girls are gender-bent characters, some I took the liberty of genderbending myself.
Koihime Canon Females:
Ryuubi Gentoku, Touka, Magistrate, SKM Canon, Liu Bei Xuande
Sousou Moutoku, Karin, Shishi, KM Canon, Cao Cao Mengde,
Sonken Bundai, Yenren, Governor, SKMK Canon, Sun Jian Wentai,
Enshou Honsho, Reiha, Governor, KM Canon, Yuan Shao Benchu,
Enjutsu Kouro, Miu, Governor, SKM Canon, Yuan Shu Gonglu,
Kousonsan Hakukei, Pairen, Governor, KM Canon, Gongsun Zan Bogui,
Batou Jusei, Unknown True Name, Governor, SKM Canon, Ma Teng Shoucheng
Koihime Canon Males:
Hongou Kazuto, Sawada, Magistrate, KM Canon turned Crossover Character, Liu Bei Xuande analog
That's eight people who are canon existences. The other twelve are more variable, so I chose freely. Only a handful of them would be important in the end. If any of you are Romance of the Three Kingdoms nerds who are willing to give me a summary for each that would make for an interesting plot thread, but for now:
Non-canon warlords that I genderbent myself:
Choubaku Moutaku, Governor of Chenliu, Zhang Miao Mengzhuo
Ryuutai Kousan, Imperial Protector of Yanzhou Region, Liu Dai Gongshan
Kanhyoku Bunsetsu, Imperial Protector of Jizhou Region, Han Fu Wenjie
Houshin, Lord of Jibei, Bao Xin
Houshin, Choubaku, and Ryuutai are all females here because of their potential direct or indirect connections with Sousou. No other real reason. And only because I looked at their profiles on Wikipedia. Maybe the other lords have just as strong a connection to Cao Cao as the rest, but I don't really want to waste that much time looking at their profiles and trying to tie them together with the already entangled plot that I'm forming.
As for Kanhyoku, I remember reading a story with a gender-bent Han Fu. I somewhat liked that Han Fu enough that I wanted a gender-bent Han Fu here too. More homage than anything. "Don'tTell Me This Is the True History of the Three Kingdoms!" It's a nice little Chinese Novel with a similar premise to Koihime Musou.
Although I genderbent these 4, I very much consider them expendable.
The other eight are men that I decided not to genderbend:
Koushuu Koushu, Imperial Protector of Yuzhou Region, Kong Zhou Gongxu
Oukyou Kousetsu, Governor of Henei, Wang Kuang Gongjie
Kyoubou Gen'i, Governor of Dongjun, Qiao Mao Yuanwei
En'i Hakugyou, Governor of Shanyang, Yuan Yi Boye
Kouyuu Bunkyo, Governor of Beihai, Kong Rong Wenju
Chouchou Moukou, Governor of Guangling, Zhang Chao Menggao
Touken Kyouso, Imperial Protector of Xuzhou Region, Tao Qian Gongzu
Chouyou Chishuku, Governor of Shangdang, Zhang Yang Zhishu
I named all of them, but I doubt I'll use any of them that much, even the ones I gender-bent myself. Only if they have something interesting to add to the story. Their age ranges do vary, but I really could care less about them.
And yes, I intentionally avoided naming the territories of the characters. There's only so much guessing how to read Chinese Characters into Japanese Pronunciation I can do. I don't even know if the Chinese characters I'm using is the one I want half the time.