Note:
Just a reminder that this is a fanfic/more detailed or "flavorful" story from the "Shall We Date? Ninja Destiny" game. Also remember that some details in this story will be different then the other guys, otherwise after one playthrough the story would be the exact same except the guy you are choosing to romance. ((The battles, the enemies, the family line, everything gets swapped around. It can be confusing if you are reading this but have played through a different story. Basically, this is really following Hyosuke's story- so in this story Yoshitsune is not brothers with Yoritomo.. but instead Kajiwara..))

It can be found in your app store if you wish to experience it for yourself, and I highly recommend playing through it at some point if you do in fact enjoy this story. ((The free version is an "energy" system and yes, you will need to wait a while to go through the whole story without paying for it.))

Please be aware that since this is written from the aspect of sticking to the game- this will be very similar to it. Maybe after I am done with this, I will do my own spin off.. We shall see! ((Let us hope I don't get too distracted! xD))

I will try to keep it as the same theme as the game, since it was written to resemble Heian Japan 748 - 1198 A.D.. I apologize for the errors I will undoubtedly have, since I do not know much about this time/the history.

Phew, this one took a while.. but I hope you enjoy!

No copyright infringement intended.

Italic words are thoughts. Anything in quotation marks "Like this" is someone talking. Currently I do not use bold words, except for the name of the chapter and above the actual story.. ((like up here.))

Since this is a game where you can input your own character name, I am using my own gaming name since I do not recall the original name in the introduction. Lynvina (Lyn) Heartlily

Hyosuke's special move is originally called "Thunder God Flying Hurricane", however, that was a bit bulky/clunky to type out and imagine someone yelling in combat. I have switched it to "Hurricane of the Thunder God".

Please do not be caught off guard, Shinobi (忍) otherwise referred to as ninja (忍者)... Thus I may switch up which term I use, and I apologize in advance for any confusion!

Retainer (medieval), a person, especially a soldier, in the service of a lord in the late Middle Ages.

Please be sure to check out the app, since this is where the story originated from! "Shall we Date? Ninja Destiny!"

Hyosuke
Chapter 2

Genji and Heishi

Yoshitsune had a small army besides the Shinobi I had met. As we walked toward his encampment, I noticed them all turning towards him and bowing deeply. Everyone respects this man so much.. Even I'm grateful for his kindness, without him I don't know where I would be. Yoshitsune walked over to the middle of the camp and turned around, I soon realized those we passed had then followed him here. His gaze looking over his comrades.

A kind smile spread to his lips before he began to speak. "Thank you everyone for your hard work today. We've made great progress with little casualties..." His gaze stopped on me for a moment, then he looked over to his retainers. "We overcame their offense, and were able to push them back." He paused for a moment, and I glanced around. Some of the soldiers were silently cheering at this news. My eyes went back to Yoshitsune, his Shinobi retainers by his side. "However today is not over. We cannot allow the Taira to escape us so easily. No doubt that you are weary from today, those who need to rest, please head back to your tents and do so. Those who can still press on remain here."

To my surprise nobody moved. Surely they must be tired.. I heard someone murmur softly, "I would do anything for Lord Yoshitsune." In response another said, "his strength makes me able to press on.." A smile spread across my lips. They really respect this man..

Yoshitsune's eyes sparkled with admiration towards his peers. "Thank you. This would not be possible if it was not for each and everyone of you." As he said this, four more shinobi had appeared, and I could see the excitement on Hyosuke's face.

My eyes widened and I felt breath leave my lungs as I gazed at the group of 8 behind their Lord. So many colors. These must also be Ninjas as well.. Yoshitune has this deep purple under of his lavender armor, his hair tucked into a black helmet, however the strands that fell forward reaches down past his elbows.

Hyosuke with his canary yellow outlined with bold black and black flowers on his sleeves that expose his bicep, with a purple sash around his waist.

Redheaded Enya wearing flame colors red fading into orange, his weapons tucked into the front fold, and a dark shawl close to his neck on the left side and drapes completely over his right shoulder onto his back.

Hyuga with silver hair was wearing white and silver armor, his dark blue kimono showing under his armor and on his legs, a large quiver can be seen behind him.

Hanzo with forest green hair, was wearing a bright green top accented with white patterns, and his sleeves turned from green to white down towards his hands, a yellow and green scarf wrapped loosely around his neck...

My eyes wandering, landed on one man wearing pink. His eyes a deep shade of pink, almost red, his attention stuck with his master. I tilted my head slightly as I noticed his right arm had a weird look to it, wooden brown color had this armor look toward his elbow. Is that arm not real..?

Seeing off to the side of him, one of the newcomers shift his weight. My eyes then went to examine him, he stood proudly and was the closest to Yoshitsune. Tallest and bulkiest among the group, his arms crossed over his chest. This one looks like.. a monk? He has a large white scarf around his neck, his shirt black.. and a rather large weapon strapped to his back.

My eyes at the end of that weapon, I soon noticed someone slightly behind him wearing a dark blue mask bearing a mark.. and I glanced to his eyes. Oh my! He has odd eyes, one a bright golden color, and the other a brilliant green.. a shade not quite one I've ever seen before. He was wearing light blue undergarb with a darker blue kimono on top, green strap was falling down his shoulders and another strap of same color was around his waist. My eyes then stopped on his weapon..

I felt someone staring at me, and I looked around, soon I realized the gaze was coming from a man in rich purple clothing, a crimson cloak embellished with gold on his backside that was draping partially over his front.. His eyes shone purple as his gaze was all over my body. I shivered slightly.. I feel so uncomfortable about that one.. but he.. looks.. As my eyes looked into his face our gaze locked and I felt a deep blush rise to my cheeks. He's not from around here.. A foreigner?

I soon realized that the marks on their armor must have something to do with being a ninja, as most of the group has some symbol on them.. Few wearing masks, headbands, and some not really showing as openly on their persons.

Yoshitsune continued, "I want to break up into groups and continue searching the area.. the Taira may have retreated to fortress Ichinotani.. If that's the case, we must overtake the fortress and force them out." A cheer erupted from his small army.

After the meeting.. he instructed the soldiers where to search, and when to return. After they walked off, he turned to his shinobi and had a conversation amongst them... I looked up to see the man wearing dark blue mas and the really large man staring at me, seeing the glare they were giving me I flinched. They then looked back at Yoshitsune and nodded, then before my eyes, the ones I didn't know disbanded from the group.

Enya, Hyuga, Hanzo, and Hyosuke were looking at one another. They started conversing amongst each other when Yoshitsune turned around and smiled over at me. "Oh, Lynvina.. Sorry, I didn't mean to ignore you like that." He walked over to me and I smiled back at him. "I just needed to make sure things were set in motion."

I tucked the longest bangs on the right side of my face behind my ear. "N-no, it's alright.. I'm just uncertain of what I can do to help.."

His expression changed a little bit, as if in thought. "I won't have a guest of mine doing any work. Go ahead and relax some.. Hyosuke!" He looked over his shoulder and called out to him, and almost instantly he appeared next to us. "Please take Lynvina to our estate, and make sure she makes it to her quarters."

"Yes my Lord." He bowed. Yoshitsune then walked back toward the other Shinobi and Hyuga dashed off. My eyebrows raised and Hyosuke patted me on the head. "Don't worry, you'll be safe with us. We better get going though, it will get dark soon."

He saw me nod, and started walking. "By the way, you won't need to go back to that little encampment.. Chances are we will be pressing forward and won't be using that one as much."

I really hope I'm not burdening them. I can't help but feel.. guilty..? For most of the walk, I kept quiet as Hyosuke hummed to himself.

It didn't take long at all to reach the estate, and a kind woman appeared with a smile on her face. Upon seeing me her head tilted. "Hello Hyosuke, welcome back. Who's..?"

He chuckled softly. "Thank you, Ofuku! This is Lynvina, she's a guest of Yoshitsune and will be with us for a while."

The lady named Ofuku bowed to me, "Welcome Lady Lynvina, if there is anything you need.. Simply ask!"

I smiled and bowed back to her, "Please, call me Lyn.. There is no need to be so formal."

Ofuku looked like she was about to object when Hyosuke cut in. "Erm.. I'm sorry ladies.. I need to take Lyn to her room so I can get back to Yoshitsune." We both look at him and nod.

"Of course." Ofuku responded and bowed to us. "Please let me know if you need anything."

I bowed to her then followed Hyosuke to a separate part of the building. Wow this place sure is impressive.. such a huge mansion! He stopped at a sliding door and turned to me. "Here's your room! Sorry I can't stay and chat for a while, I really need to get back.."

His eyes looked sad as he said this, and I tried to hold back a giggle. "U-uhm.. hm.. That's alright." I felt a big smile spread to my lips. "Thank you for all you've done today, Hyosuke."

His face twisted a bit. "We'll chat later!"

"Alright." I said, bowed, and was about to head in my room before I paused. "Please be careful." Seeing the kind expression once again on his face. He nodded as I opened the door and went into the room. I heard his footsteps on the wooden veranda, leading away from my room.

A small sigh escaped my lips as I closed the door. Realizing it is now getting dark and soon I should sleep, I looked around the room. Soon I heard someone's footsteps coming toward my room, and a soft knock on the door. "Excuse me, Lady Lynvina?"

I heard Ofuku on the other side. I turned around and opened the door. "Yes? Oh! Thank you miss Ofuku!" In her hands was a tray with sinner served on it.

Ofuku nodded and handed the tray to me. "When you are done, sit it outside your room and I will come by later to pick it up." She bowed and smiled at me before leaving.

I closed the door and sat the tray down before sitting. She's kind too.. How did she know I haven't eaten yet? I looked down at the dinner, feeling guilty. I shouldn't become a burden like this.. I slowly ate the rice, and when I was completely done with my meal I sat the tray outside my room, like asked to do, still feeling guilty. Closing the door and walking over to my bed, I sighed and sat down. Way too much has happened today, that I'm certain. Waking up in the battlefield.. getting rescued by Hyosuke, being suspected that I was Taira.. then the unexpected twist of living under Hyosuke's lord. Tons of thoughts raced through my mind before I finally fell asleep, right as I faded off into my sleep, I heard the sound of soft footsteps walking to my room, stop, then walk away. Thank you Ofuku..

The next morning I woke up, sat up and stretched my hands to the ceiling. "Mm, ah!" Opening my eyes I realized Hyosuke was staring at me, taken aback I jumped. "Eek!"

He laughed softly. "Morning Lyn! Did you sleep well?"

Still flustered that he was in my room I grabbed the covers and hid my face. "Uhm, y-yes.." The floorboards creaked softly as he came closer, and my face heated up. Wha-What is he doing in here!?

He patted my head softly. "That's good, I have to head out soon but I wanted to say good morning!" I pulled the cover down so I could look out over it, and he had a innocent look on his face.

He came to say good morning? Feeling my cheeks grow hotter I nodded and made sure that he couldn't see my face. Oh goodness, I have to be so red right now.. Hearing him move, I looked up and saw he was headed out of the room. "Th-thank you, Hyosuke.. Good Morning.." He looked down and smiled at me before heading out of the room.

"Oh! Hello Hyosuke! Is Lady Lynvina awake?" I heard Ofuku's voice from outside.

"Yep, she just got up!" He said in a cheerful tone. "Just knock lightly, she'll open the door for you."

Sure enough I heard a small knock, I hurriedly got up and adjusted my Kimono.. Oh no, its so ruffled from being slept in.. But I have no other clothes.. I open the door and smiled awkwardly at Ofuku. "G-good morning!" Looking down I realized she made breakfast and was holding a tray out for me.

"Good morning! Here's breakfast!" She smiled sweetly. "Thank you for leaving the tray out last night, be sure to do the same thing again and I will come back and pick it up!"

I nodded without saying a word, feeling guilt of having her taking care of me. "Thank you.." I accepted the tray and I watched her bow, and walk off. That's the second meal since I've been here.. and I feel like I'm being pampered.. I really don't like being a burden..

After eating my breakfast, I left my room with the tray and walked it to the kitchen, Ofuku stared at me with surprise. "Oh! Lady Lynvina, I was about to come and get your tray, I'm sorry!"

My face flushed a bit. "Please, it's alright.. I was heading out of my room anyway." I held out the tray to her.

She nodded, "Well, thank you! Don't worry about it next time, I can go grab it!"

I sighed softly and bowed to her. "Thank you kindly." She soon ushered me out of the kitchen, saying it was not a place for me to be.

I walked around the veranda, in awe of how large the mansion truly was. I heard footsteps coming toward me and looked up to see Hanzo. He tilted his head slightly when he saw me. "Hello Lyn, good morning."

"Good morning Hanzo!" I smiled and bowed to him, soon realizing he had sweat on his forehead.

He saw my glance, and reached up and wiped the sweat away. "Sorry, was training a moment ago.."

I smiled. "Ah! No wonder.. but this early..?"

As my question trailed off he nodded. "We have alternating shifts at the moment, so I figured instead of sitting around I could keep myself prepared by training a bit.." Hearing his stomach growl I laughed softly, his cheeks grew slightly pink.

"Oh! I'm sorry, you must be headed over to get breakfast! I'll leave you be." I stepped to the side to let him pass.

"I-it's alright.." he rubbed the back of his head with his hand. "It was nice bumping into you though." He started walking toward the kitchen.

I giggled to myself as he walked away.. I continued walking for a bit, then eventually wound up near the garden. Wow, this place is so vast, a garden, living quarters.. everything.. Yoshitsune must be a important man.. Realizing this I sat down on the veranda facing the garden, admiring the beauty of it. After sitting there for a while, I looked up at the sky. Is it really okay to sit around all day.. be pampered.. and let others do all the work?

The day seemed to take forever to end. As the sun started setting I sighed, all of a sudden I could hear people returning to the estate. Just in time for dinner, huh? I smiled as I leaned softly against a pillar. Seeing Hyosuke among the shinobi and soldiers returning, i sighed in relief.

"Man I am soooo hungry!" Hyosuke exclaimed, he then looked over and saw me, a big smile spread to his lips. "Hey Lyn! You haven't eaten yet, have you?" Seeing me shake my head in response, he came over toward me and gently grabbed my wrist. "C'mon, lets go eat!"

I had no chance to reply and I did as I was told, followed him into the mess hall. I'm assuming this is where they would throw a banquet? I looked around, amazed at the size of it, beautiful paper lanterns were lit all around the room. Hyosuke sat down and patted the pillow nest to him. "Come here and sit down!" The food was already out on the table, the dishes and utensils lined up perfectly.

I slowly walked over to him and sat down, looking around I saw Hanzo and Enya already sitting. Hyuga just entered the room and sat down next to me, then I saw Yoshitsune enter the room. "We made excellent progress again today, my friends. Let us eat our meal and get some rest tonight."

After a brief pause, Hyosuke then exclaimed "Let's dig in!" Everyone nodded and started choosing what food to eat.

After the dinner I slowly made my way back to the room, sighing. I really cannot add to the burden, I must find a way to help.. I entered my room and paused before laying down in my bed. Determined to not let another day drag on, people helping me without helping in return, I crawled into bed. Tomorrow will be different. As soon as I laid my head down to sleep, I passed out.

I heard my door slide open then closed, and I turned over on my side. Did someone just come into my room? I sat up slowly, rubbing my eyes. Very sleepily I looked around the room and wondered what had woken me up. I didn't see anyone in my room, and I stood up, stretching, then I looked down at my clothing. I really need something else to wear..

I fixed my bed before leaving my room, and noticed not too much was going on. Maybe it's too early? I leaned against the railing outside my room and noticed someone was there.. Hyosuke?

He hasn't seen me yet, he was looking up at the stars from where he was standing. The moonlight highlighted his young features, he was wearing a light yellow kimono that looked very pale in the lighting. The wind picked up slightly and it ruffled his hair a bit, I guess it tickled him and he turned his face away from the wind. A big smile on his face, then he saw me. "Oh, Lyn! Sorry did I wake you?"

I slowly came over to him and shook my head. "I don't think so.." Was it him in my room moments ago? "What are you doing out here? Can't sleep?"

He nodded and patted my head softly before looking back at the sky. "Yeah.. I hate that we let those bastards get away." For a moment I could see his features take a agitated look, but then he looked back at me. "Sorry, I shouldn't trouble you.."

I bit my lip, his eyes were so kind when he looked at me. Much different then any time he thinks of the Heishi.. Why does he hate the Taira so much? "It's alright!" I smiled at him and tucked my hair behind my ear as wind ruffled our hair again.

He rolled his shoulders. "So far we've found they took the Ichinotani fortress as their base.. " His eyes dart to the side and he looked over toward the garden. "Ah, Mizuki, have any news?"

The man wearing the dark blue mask appeared from the darkness. "Yeah.." He glanced at me and his eyes turned cold. Eek.. I've felt this before.. back when Hyosuke thought I was Taira.. don't tell me he thinks I am..? "...Not in front of her." His voice held no emotion, but I felt the impact. I looked down.

Hyosuke sighed and rolled his eyes. "Well.. Is it something dire? Do we need to wake Lord Yoshitsune?"

The man with jet black hair shook his head, his odd eyes still on me. I felt his gaze burning into me. "No, it's just as you suspected though."

"Alright, we need to inform Lord Yoshitsune before we send out another scouting group." Hyosuke nodded to Mizuki, and Mizuki disappeared back into the darkness. Hyosuke turned to face me. "Sorry Lyn.. He doesn't really talk too much, but he is a good guy.. Seems we all just want to make one-hundred percent certain that you are not the enemy.. because that would be tragic."

He reached over and placed his hand on my shoulder. I could feel the warmth of his arm across my back as he half hugged me. "T-thank you.. I'm sorry that I just seem to be causing issues.."

"Not at all. You should go get some sleep, and stop worrying so much! Yoshitsune wants you to feel at home, so just relax while you are here."

I couldn't meet his gaze, and I nodded. I turned back toward my door and went into my room, I closed the door behind me, then slowly went back to my bed and sat down. How can I sleep? Laying down as I thought that, I laid there with thoughts racing through my head. When will my memory return..?

The following day was as calm as the previous, I laid about most of the day. Whatever happened to helping out? Oh.. Ofuku had woken her up this morning and had breakfast ready. I dont even remember falling asleep.. Ah well, its almost dinner time, maybe I can help out. I headed over towards the kitchen, sure enough Ofuku was there cleaning. When she saw me she gasped and a hand flew to her chest. "Goodness! Please don't come up on me like that!"

I blinked at her then realized I had scared her. "Oh Ofuku! I'm terribly sorry! I was actually wanting to help out.. At the very least I can help with meal preparations!" I bowed deeply.

"B-but I couldn't ask that of you, Lyn!" She shook her head. "I could not allow someone of such high rank to do such commoner work.." Earlier I had asked her to call me Lyn instead of Lady Lynvina. Heh.. I'm glad she finally isnt so tense.. but..

I sighed softly. "I honestly do not know what my social rank is.. I've been sitting around, not allowed to lift a finger.. I can't help with the searching, the battling.. but I know I can help with things around here.. Please! I don't want to burden anyone!"

I don't know if she heard the plea in my voice or if she understood where I was coming from, Ofuku smiled softly and placed a hand on her hip. "Well I guess there is no way I can refuse after that.. Dinner is almost ready.. Would you mind helping me distribute the meals?" I nodded and grabbed one of the trays. "I need you to take them to Hanzo, Enya, Hyuga, and Hyosuke.. They are heavy, so please be careful carrying them!"

I smiled big and nodded. I stacked a few trays up and placed the dishes on the top one, and slowly lifted them up to test the weight. "This isn't too bad, anymore I wouldn't be able to carry far though." Happy that I can finally do something I giggled to myself. "You can count on me!" I carefully left the kitchen and headed to the wing where Hanzo's room was.

I paused at his door, then called out. "Excuze me, Hanzo sir.." I placed the tray down before sliding the door open. "I have brought your Dinner!"

"Ah, thank you. Can you place it over there for me?" He said, pointing toward the center of the room. He was running a cloth along the blade of his long sword.

I nodded and hurried to the center of the room, placed one of the bottom trays in the middle of the floor and placed his meal on that tray with utensils.

Suddenly I guess he realized it was me, "Huh? Wait.. you are a guest.. Why are you doing household chores?"

I smiled at him. "I don't want to be a burden, so I basically begged Ofuku to let me help out around here, reluctantly she gave me this task.." I giggled softly. "Its really no big deal.. anything I can do to help, I'll gladly do." I stood up, and went to reach for the other trays when he stopped me by gently placing a hand on my forearm.

"Honestly as a guest of Yoshitsune, you really should be relaxing.. It's not necessary to do any chores at all."

Its unnecessary..? I looked down at the floor. "Please forgive me for intruding." I gently pulled my arm away from his and grabbed the tray with the remaining meals on it, then left the room.

Is it really a bad thing that I am helping out? I don't see myself as better than anyone.. but then again I don't even know who I am.. I felt a sad smile tug at the corner of my lips. Maybe this is below my station.. I shook my head, and looked up. Stop that! I must repay the kindness and favor of being allowed to stay here.

I then made my way towards Enya's quarters. I knocked lightly on the door. "Excuse me sir." I open the door slowly. "I have brought your evening meal."

As I entered I looked over and saw him messing with something before putting it in his pocket. "Oh, thank you. Please place it over there.. Wait! You didn't cook that, did you?" A teasing grin was on his face.

I held back from rolling my eyes. Well.. that was rude."Erm, well.. My memory hasn't returned yet so-"

"Hah, good." He cut me off. As I placed the tray down he continued. "Your hands, fair white, are gorgeous.. Soon I'll know all about what kinds of meals you can make for me."

White hands.. I looked down and stared at my hands. Enya is one gluttonous man, isn't he? I took a tray from the bottom and placed his meal down in the place he motioned to.

"Oh wow, you have some pretty hair!" Next thing I knew I felt his hand in my hair and his other hand on my shoulder as he pulled me against his body.

Without thinking, I raised my hand and slapped the hand in my hair. "Stop! That's so rude!" I then shoved him away from me.

"Hey, woah. All I wanted to do was touch it, that's all.." He smiled at me, he then let go holding his hands up away from me. "You have never known a man.. You'd tell me right?"

I felt my face blush and I couldn't believe what he just asked me. "T-thats so rude!" was all I could say before I grabbed the tray and left the room. I made sure to keep my head low and avoid his gaze on my way out. I could hear his laughter erupting from the room as I fled. ...That Enya is so malicious...

I heard voices at Hyuga's room, and I knelt before the door. "Excuse me sir, I have brought you your meal!" Those voices.. Hyuga and Yoshitsune?

The door abruptly opened, Hyuga stuck his head out. "Who's there?!"

"I have your dinner sir." I bowed to the men inside the room.

"Lynvina? There is no need for you to do such chores. You are a guest.." Yoshitune's voice was kind.

"I'm sorry.." I bowed again. "I was the only person on this entire estate just sitting around all day.. I only wanted to help.."

When I looked back at Yoshitunes face, he smiled sweetly. "No matter how happy that makes me to hear you want to help.. You are a Princess of the Miyamoto clan. These duties, such as chores, should be none of your concern." He looked over at Hyuga. "Don't you agree, Hyuga?"

"As you say, my Lord." Hyuga simply replied.

Yoshitsune then looked back at me. "There, the only thing I can ask of you is to relax."

He placed his hand on my shoulder and was about to leave. "Yoshitsune, the evening meal.."

"I'll go ahead and take it to my room." He smiled then looked at Hyuga. "Hyuga I am sorry for disturbing you, let's go with that strategy."

Hyuga nodded, "Understood sir. Should I inform the others?"

Yoshitsune started toward the door. "Not necessary, I shall inform them myself." I bowed before he left the room.

As soon as he was gone and out of earshot, a mocking look on Hyuga's face. "Yoshitsune must be soft if he has such a useless girl around him." What!? As I opened my mouth, he interrupted me. "I wonder why Hyosuke decided to bring such tattered baggage from a battlefield?"

I had no response. I've often wondered why he saved me as well.. I am broken merchandise after all.. I pursed my lips together, making a thin line, I could feel a slight sting in my eyes. Don't let him get the pleasure of seeing you cry..

His eyes grew colder. "The battles will continue, neither Yoshitsune or Hosuke is going to be able to tote a woman around." Raising a eyebrow he also stated, "when that time comes, I will only take care of myself."

"Noted.." I said, my gaze then lowered as I put the tray in the middle of the room, places his meal down. "Thank you for the warning." I said and quickly left the room.

How annoying, I don't have anything I could say to anything that Hyuga just nailed into me.. I took the sleeve of my kimono and wiped my tears before heading to Hyosuke's room. I can't be crying, come on. Pull yourself together! I reached his door and called out, "Excuse me sir, I have your evening meal!"

I could hear someone rise from their knees and rush toward the door, as soon as it opened Hyosuke looked at me in shock. "Lyn! What are you doing!? You are an invited guest."

I smiled at him. Oh how many times I've heard that tonight.. "I'm helping out."

"But you don't need to be, you are a guest." He smiled at me. "Yoshitsune was very adamant about you getting rest. The only thing he wants you to worry about is getting your memory back." He reached out and patted my head then let me in the room. "After all he did call you his guest." The emphasis on "his guest" being strong.

"But.." I looked down to the floor. "What if my memory never returns..?"

Hyosuke reached under my chin with his finger and pulled my face to meet his. "Don't worry about that!" His face full of confidence, he laughed. "Lyn.. Did you forget what Yoshitsune has trusted me with?" He removed his fingers from my chin and pat me on the head. "He said I am in charge of taking care of you."

I felt my worry fade away as I looked into his eyes. I smiled softly, "Hyosuke.." He chuckled softly and gently stroked my hair. Hyosuke.. you are so kind.. "Lord Hyosuke.. Thank you very much."

"Lyn, you are always on my mind." He shook his head softly, smiling.

I blinked at him. "Huh? What do you mean?"

He blushed slightly. "Well.. when you just called me 'Lord Hyosuke' it was kinda embarrassing.."

I placed a finger on my chin and thought for a moment. "Oh.. well.. What should I call you then?"

"Just Hyosuke should be fine, don't you think?"

"..Hyosuke.." I murmured softly.

He chuckled, a big smile on his face. "Yes, that's it! That has a nice ring to it." I guess I can get used to this.. We're formally friends then. "..a man, that would be a little weird." Oh.. he was talking.. "Lyn have you eaten yet?"

I shook my head. "Not yet.. Now that I think about it I never even thought about my own meal."

He poked me softly. "Okay, go get your dinner and come back. We should eat together because it's more fun then eating by ourselves."

"Alright!" I hurried back to the kitchen and Ofuku handed me my serving, I thanked her, then headed back to Hyosuke's room. I sat down next to Hyosuke and he nodded, we started eating.

He was watching me with kind eyes and chuckled softly. "Just as I thought, Lyn. You have very refined movement.. The way you eat is simply beautiful."

I felt my cheeks get warm and i lowered my head slightly, hiding my eyes in my bangs. "N-no.. I don't think so.. It's just table manners.."

Hyosuke slowly put food into his mouth. "But it's obviously completely different then how I eat.. I never studied things like eating manners." He smiled then dug into his food.

But the way Hyosuke eats seems like he is enjoying his food.. that its delicious.. If I ate that way,it would surely be fun..

"Hm, now that I'm thinking about it.." He placed his chopsticks and dish down on the tray. "Have you heard any news about the situation right now?"

I shake my head at him. "Nope, nothing.."

He smiled at me, then placed his hands behind him leaning back and looking at the ceiling. "The power of the Miyamoto clan is increasing, and the Taira is steadily losing. They keep retreating to the west. Today was a good day.. we were able to get them out of Ichinotani.. However.." He then looked at me. "We found out they also took Emperor Antoku with them.."

They have taken young Emperor Antoku and are fleeing west..

Hyosuke had a look of disapproval on his face as he continued, his eyes grew very dark. "I can't believe they would take the young emperor like that.. nothing but scum would resort to this lowly act." He sat up. "That despicable Taira clan should not exist in this age." I know I've noticed before.. Like when he thought I was Taira, and when those men had shown up in the battlefield.. his normal gentle and happy expression becomes so dark and cold.. it's quite terrifying. "Those fools will pay dearly for taking the emperor. It doesn't seem like they possess the Three Sacred Treasures, and the political power they symbolize.."

I felt a twinge of pain in my head. "The Three Sacred.. Treasures..?"

He nodded at me, his face once again the normal gentle Hyosuke. "The treasures of the royal family. If the Taira were to obtain the Three Sacred Treasures, then they would essentially have the power to take control of the whole country."

What are the Three Sacred Treasures? My head started throbbing more. I lifted my hands to my temples. Why.. why is there so much pain? All I'm trying to do is remember something and it feels like my head is going to explode..

Hearing Hyosuke's concerned voice I looked up at him seeing a very worried eyes looking into mine. "Lyn? What's wrong? You've lost all color in your face.."

I tried to sime and lowered my hands. "I-I'm fine.. It's nothing."

"Well, you don't look fine, your face is telling me something is wrong.. Do you have a fever?" He bit the inside of his lip, then leaned in close and pressed his forehead against mine. "Uh-huh.." He's so close right now.. I felt a blush rise to my cheeks. "...It does seem like you have a slight fever."

I couldn't move, it was hard to breathe with his face so close to mine.. "I-I'm alright.." But he ignored me, got up, and quickly left the room, before long he came back with a water bucket and a rag. "My face.. is red?"

"Yea, I wouldn't be worried if your face was it's normal color.." He giggled softly and ringed the water out of the cloth. "Please, if you fall ill or if something happens.. let me know immediately."

I felt my cheeks burning. "O-okay.." He gently placed the towel on my forehead and I shivered. I can't tell him I'm blushing because he was so close to me.. I don't even know why I'm reacting like this.

A smile spread across his lips. "Good answer." He then sat back down beside me. "If you have any concerns, let me know.. I'll try and be the best of help I can be."

I tilted my head, the cloth nearly fell off. "Any concerns?" I reached up and straightened the cloth on my forehead.

"Well, currently the Minamoto army has two generals, Yoshitsune and Kagetoki Kajiwara. Kajiwara is Yoshitsune's brother.. Both of them serve under the supreme commander Yoritomo."

"Soo, between the two brothers they basically control everything?"

Hyosuke sighed. "Actually.. they don't get along at all." Seeing the confusion on my face, he continued. "The victory of Ichinotani was because of Yoshitsune's surprise attack plans.." A smile crept onto his lips. "...and Kajiwara was very against those tactics."

I frowned a bit. "Why.. exactly was he against them?"

Hyosuke slightly rolled his eyes. "Ichinotani was a Taira stronghold.. Behind it is a cliff that you can see from sea." He then turned toward his bed and traced a map in the sheet. "Instead of a frontal assault, Yoshitsune took a unit of his cavalry along this cliff, and attacked. That resulted in a overwhelming victory." He scoffed. "Of course, Kajiwara was against this attack. He was very irritated that it worked so well and that Yoshitsune obtained victory."

I looked down at the map he drew out. "Using horses to run down a cliff.. That's brilliant!" I looked at Hyosuke and smiled.

He returned the smile to me and chuckled. "That's Lord Yoshitsune! He thinks very differently then the average person, taking different viewpoints, the impossible and rejected plans one wouldn't consider, then applying them into strategies.. Thats one of his amazing skills."

I hold back a giggle. Hyosuke is glowing as he speaks about Yoshitsune.. He really looks up to him and respects the man

Several days later.

I finally got Ofuku to let me help out more then just delivering food. Thank goodness.. I feel like I am finally able to start repaying everyone's kindness.. I would do laundry in the morning, help and serve breakfast, water the garden, check up on the horses, help prep and make dinner.. and also helped clean up afterwards.

Lord Yoshitsune was in the hall that could be used for a banquet. He was speaking with his retainers. "Have we learned anything new regarding the Taira and the Three Sacred Treasures?"

Hyuga leaned against the wall, crossing his arms in front of him. "Unfortunately, no.. We haven't found anyone who knows anything."

Yoshitsune frowns. "There are those who are disloyal.. abandoning their posts, and they must be punished severely.. Regardless, we must use them to find the Three Sacred Treasures."

Sounds like we didn't get any information at all from those Taira soldiers we had captured..

I could hear a thumping sound outside, and a guard calls out. "Oh look at that! A horse is approaching." Excited chatter can be heard from the other guards.

Yoshitsune had a surprised look on his face. "Hah, a horse? There's nothing to worry about." The guard came inside and mentioned that it came directly towards his room, as if to visit Yoshitsune. "I see.." He smiled softly. He must like horses.. "If its that special, then we should go take a look."

The guard was excited, and it made me curious to see the horse as well. "Is it alright if I come along too?"

Yoshitsune chuckled. "So you like horses too Lyn? That's good." He paused and looked over at Hyosuke, then back at me. "You can come with Hyosuke."

Hyosuke with his innocent smile, "Lyn.. you like horses?"

"I feel.. theres this bond between us... So I think I like them."

Hyosuke laughed softly and took my hand. "Awesome, let's hurry outside and take a look!" I nodded and excitement thumped in my chest, I followed quickly behind Hyosuke.

There was a gorgeous black coated horse slowly approaching the mansion. Beautiful muscles and glimmering coat, it came to a halt just out front of the estate.

I stood on the porch, gazing at the beautiful creature as the men got closer to it. My eyes landed on Yoshitsune who reached forward to pet it. "This coat has a gorgeous color to it.. The way he holds himself.. He's full of pride, intelligence, and nobility." Yoshitsune gently pet the horse on his head, stroking softly.

I tilted my head to the side as it stared directly at me. uh.. why is he staring at me? He hasn't even looked at anyone else.. I looked into those dark eyes and suddenly I remember. I.. was.. on this horse.. running for my life... My breath caught in my lungs as I pressed a hand to my lips. "Y-you.." I stepped off the porch and walked slowly to the black steed. "...Kurodayu..?"

The horse neighed upon hearing his name escape my lips. It is! It's Kurodayu! Kurodayu slowly closed the distance between us, and rubbed the side of his face against mine. A soft sound came from the horse, and I wrapped my arms around his neck, hugging softly as I ran my fingers through his silky mane.

"Lyn..?" Hearing Yoshitsune's voice I let go of Kurodayu, patting the front of his face. "...Is this your horse?"

I smiled and looked into the dark eyes of Kurodayu. "Yes.. this is my beloved Kurodayu.." Thank goodness you are okay..

Surprise was painted on Hyosuke's face as he came to my side, excitement making his voice pitch a little higher than normal. "Does.. Does this mean you remember him, have you regained a part of your memory?"

"I believe so." I giggled as Kurodayu huffed, he picked his head up, as if just now noticing the others. I pat him gently.

Kurodayu was now looking at Yoshitsune. "Hello there, Kurodayu.. you are a fine horse. I shall look over both you and Lyn, after all we do have room in our stables for you."

I was so happy I nearly jumped in place, keeping my excitement in check, only to have it come out in my voice. "Oh, thank you so much!"

Hyosuke chuckled softly and looked at me. "Such an amazing horse!"

I nodded, beaming at Hyosuke. "Men and their horse are like siblings.. Its good and important to have a close relationship, with nothing bad between you."

Hyosuke reached out and patted my head softly. "I'm just so glad you were able to get even a tiny bit of memory back."

"Oh.." I blushed slightly, looking to the ground. "..but I only remembered Kurodayu's name.."

Hyosuke then lifted his hand and poked my cheek softly. "It's alright.. Don't rush it.. Slowly you will regain your memories, I'm certain."

I can't even remember my parents names.. how terrible is that? Smiling softly at Hyosuke, I nodded. But he's right.. Little by little I will be able to regain the knowledge of who I am..

As if sensing my thoughts and wanting to comfort me, I felt Kurodayu nuzzle against me, I turned to face him and he brushed his nose against my face. I giggled, "Kurodayu, that tickles!" Tension washed away as I was able to laugh, first time in a long time.

Hyosuke laughed while looking at us. "When I saw the figure of Kurodayu, it just confirmed my thoughts of Lyn's place of high social standing.." I looked over to see Hyosuke smiling at me. "So.. he's your horse.. can you ride them? We should totally go out on a long ride sometime!" He then reached into his pocket and I heard a soft ribbit. "If you can ride, Kermit is also able to as well.. Maybe I'll show you how to ride him sometime!"

With all the excitement over Kurodayu, I sighed in relief. You found me.. "Thank you Kurodayu.." I whispered to him as Hyosuke lead us to the stables.

Phew, sorry that took so long.. I've been getting super distracted with gaming and other real life stuff xD.. As well as Shall we date addiction growing, I believe I have like 10 of the apps on my tablet now? Phew. I plan on making plushies at some point, but I need to get all the supplies ready first.
Thank you for reading, and I don't know when chapter 3 will be out, but I will work on it the best I can!

~Lyn

aka

Teh Sexeh Kitty