Chapter 2.2: Veiled Intentions
"Kamanosuke" - Speech
'Saizo' - Thought
"{Dragons Fang}" - Attack / Abilities
"Halt!" - Loudspeaker / Orders / Something Loud
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Half An Hour Later | 10:35am - April, 13th, 1585
Ueda Castle, Center Castle Grounds, Main Courtyard Structure And Training Zone
The sun cast a warm glow over Ueda Castle as Saizo briskly made his way towards the northeastern castle grounds. Despite the early hour, the day's heat began to rise steadily, wrapping around him like a heavy cloak. Beads of sweat formed on his brow, a testament to the warmth that permeated the air.
As he traversed the bustling center courtyard of the main castle grounds, Saizo couldn't help but notice the flurry of activity around him. Soldiers sparred with wooden swords, their shouts echoing against the stone walls, while servants hurried back and forth, their arms laden with supplies. The scent of freshly cooked food wafted through the air, mingling with the sounds of clinking armor and distant chatter.
Amidst the commotion, Saizo's presence didn't go unnoticed. Infantry officers overseeing the training paused their drills to offer respectful nods in his direction, acknowledging the renowned warrior among them. Their expressions were a mix of reverence and admiration, a silent testament to Saizo's reputation as a formidable member of Lord Sanada's Braves.
Saizo returned their nods with a curt nod of his own, his focus unwavering as he continued on his path. He had little time for idle pleasantries, his thoughts consumed by the pressing matter at hand. The encounter with Kamanosuke weighed heavily on his mind, a puzzle that demanded his undivided attention.
With each step he took, the noise of the courtyard faded into the background. The northeastern castle grounds beckoned in the distance, a quiet refuge amidst the chaos of daily life. Saizo quickened his pace, his determination driving him forward as he braced himself for the confrontation that lay ahead.
As he approached the northeastern castle grounds, Saizo's gaze swept over the expanse before him, taking note of the five distinct areas that lay spread out before him. To his left, he could see the 1st open flats ground, a vast space usually reserved for large army training or for important speeches and announcements. Its open terrain provided ample room for drills and maneuvers. A dedicated location to maintaining a well-trained fighting force.
Further ahead, the 2nd track hill field came into view, its uneven terrain offering a unique challenge for those seeking to hone their skills in sparring. Saizo could see figures darting across the landscape, their movements fluid and purposeful as they adapted to the shifting landscape.
To the right, the training plateau mini forest stood as a testament to nature's resilience, its mixture of dense canopy and open spaces providing a diverse training ground for those seeking seclusion amidst nature's embrace. Saizo knew that this area was favored by those who preferred a more tactical approach to combat, its combination of winding paths, hidden clearings, and scattered ponds offering a myriad of opportunities for training, ambush, and evasion.
To the northeast, beyond the mini forest, stood a solitary watchtower overlooking the vast expanse of Ueda Castle. This weathered structure, perched atop a rocky outcrop, offered a commanding view of the surrounding countryside. Saizo noted its strategic significance, recognizing its potential as a vantage point for surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Despite its imposing presence, the watchtower seemed to receive little foot traffic on a daily basis, its solitary silhouette standing as a silent sentinel against the backdrop of the sky.
To the northwest, nestled amidst a grove of ancient cherry blossom trees, stood a modest shrine dedicated to the spirits of nature. The wooden structure, adorned with intricate carvings and faded prayer flags, exuded an aura of tranquility amidst the bustling activity of Ueda Castle. Saizo observed the shrine with a sense of reverence, acknowledging its role as a sanctuary for those seeking solace and spiritual guidance. Despite its serene surroundings, the shrine seemed to receive few visitors, its quiet presence offering a welcome respite from the chaos of daily life.
Saizo found himself at a crossroads, torn between three distinct training grounds and the two solitary structures that stood amidst the northeastern castle grounds. Each option held its own allure and potential for harboring Kamanosuke.
The watchtower loomed to the northeast, a sentinel overlooking the castle grounds. Its elevated position offered a strategic advantage, providing a sweeping view of the surrounding landscape. While its remote location and sparse foot traffic made it an unlikely hideout, Saizo couldn't discount the possibility that Kamanosuke might seek refuge or a vantage point for observation within its weathered walls.
To the northwest, nestled amidst a grove of cherry blossom trees, stood a modest shrine dedicated to the spirits of nature. Its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance made it a compelling destination for those seeking solace or contemplation. Saizo pondered whether Kamanosuke, driven by his enigmatic nature, might be drawn to the shrine's tranquil surroundings.
However, Saizo also considered the three training grounds scattered across the northeastern castle grounds. The open flats ground, the track hill field, and the training plateau mini forest each offered diverse terrain and opportunities for concealment. While they were active training areas, their relative seclusion compared to the bustling center courtyard made them viable options for someone seeking to evade detection.
As he weighed his options, Saizo couldn't shake the nagging doubt that gnawed at the edges of his consciousness. Did Kamanosuke even come this way in the first place? The uncertainty hung heavy in the air, a silent reminder of the elusive nature of their quarry. With a decisive nod, Saizo set off towards the shrine, his resolve unyielding as he embarked on the next stage of his search.
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5 Minutes Later | 10:40am - April, 13th, 1585
Ueda Castle, North East Castle Grounds, 3rd Training Plateau Mini Forest
From his vantage point high up in a sturdy tree, Kamanosuke reclined lazily, the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy casting gentle shadows across his features. With a sigh, he took a sip of water from a battered container, relishing the cool liquid as it trickled down his throat. The rustle of leaves and the distant chatter of birds provided a soothing backdrop to his thoughts, a welcome respite from the chaos of the world below.
As he gazed out at the tranquil scene before him, Kamanosuke couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. Despite the uncertainties that lay ahead, he found solace in the simple pleasures of nature and the quiet solitude of his hidden perch. Closing his eyes, he let himself be enveloped by the serene embrace of the forest, his mind drifting aimlessly amidst the rustling leaves and the gentle sway of the branches.
For a fleeting moment, all was calm, and Kamanosuke allowed himself to forget the troubles that had plagued him in recent days. Here, high above the world below, he was free to lose himself in the beauty of the natural world, to revel in the peace that could only be found amidst the whispering trees and the song of the wind. With a soft smile playing at his lips, he settled back against the rough bark of the tree, content to while away the hours in quiet contemplation.
With a gentle flick of his wrist, Kamanosuke uncoiled the kusarigama from its resting place, the metal glinting softly in the sunlight. As he inspected the weapon with a practiced eye, he noted the subtle play of light against the polished surface, a testament to its finely honed craftsmanship. With a playful grin, he swung the weapon around in a graceful arc, the chain whistling through the air with a satisfying hum.
Each movement was precise, calculated, through years of training and dedication. With fluid motions, Kamanosuke demonstrated his mastery over the deadly weapon, the blade slicing through the air with effortless grace. Yet, despite the weapon's deadly potential, there was a sense of control in his movements, a quiet confidence that spoke of years spent honing his skills.
With a final flourish, Kamanosuke brought the kusarigama to a stop, the blade gleaming in the sunlight as he held it close to his side. For a moment, he savored the weight of the weapon in his hand, the familiar touch of cold steel against his skin. With a satisfied nod, he returned the kusarigama to its resting place, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips as he settled back against the rough bark of the tree.
As he reclined against the sturdy trunk of the tree, a sense of determination coursed through Kamanosuke's veins. He would get stronger, he resolved. Strong enough to never taste defeat again. Strong enough to stand toe-to-toe with Saizo and emerge victorious.
The thought fueled his resolve, igniting a fire within him that burned brighter with each passing moment. With a steely glint in his eyes, Kamanosuke vowed to push himself beyond his limits, to train harder, fight fiercer, until he stood as an equal to the legendary warrior who haunted his every waking thought.
In that quiet moment amidst the rustling leaves and gentle breeze, Kamanosuke made a silent promise to himself. He would become a force to be reckoned with, a warrior feared and respected by all who crossed his path. And when the time came, he would face Saizo once more, ready to claim victory and prove his worth to the world.
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5 Minutes Later | 10:40am - April, 13th, 1585
Ueda Castle, North Wing, Main Castle Compound Grounds
Anastasia watched as Isanami bid her farewell, a warm smile gracing her lips. They had spent the last half hour engrossed in conversation, sharing secrets and indulging in the sort of gossip that only women could appreciate. Despite the weight of their respective duties, the brief respite had been a welcome distraction from the rigors of their daily lives.
With a final wave, Isanami turned and disappeared into the bustling crowds, her cheerful demeanor brightening the air around her. Anastasia couldn't help but admire her friend's optimistic spirit, a stark contrast to the cold reality of their world.
Shifting her gaze from the departing figure of Isanami, Anastasia's focus honed in on the towering palace structure, its grandeur dominating the distant skyline of Ueda Castle. Lord Sanada awaited her presence within those walls, an expectation she was keen to fulfill. With a determined stride, she set off towards the palace, her path leading her through the North Wing of the castle. Fortunately, the distance she needed to travel was not considerable, the palace structure looming ever closer with each step. As she walked, her mind remained steadfast on the task ahead.
Moments later, Anastasia ascended the stairs leading to the upper levels of the palace structure, her steps echoing faintly in the quiet halls. Arriving at the door to Sanada's war and planning room, she paused briefly, gathering her thoughts before giving a soft, measured knock.
A few moments passed in silence before the door creaked open, revealing Rokuro on the other side. His one visible eye regarded her with a mixture of recognition and solemnity as he stepped aside to allow her entry. Without a word, Anastasia crossed the threshold into the familiar confines of the war room.
As Anastasia stepped into the war room, her eyes swept over the familiar surroundings, taking in every detail with a practiced gaze. The center table dominated the room, adorned with a large war map depicting the intricate landscape of the surrounding provinces. Scrolls and papers cluttered the nearby bookshelves, evidence of countless hours spent in strategic planning and deliberation.
Soft sunlight filtered through the open windows, casting a warm glow over the room and illuminating the dust motes that danced in its rays. The gentle breeze carried with it the faint scent of cherry blossoms, a reminder of the beauty that flourished beyond the castle walls.
In the corner of the room, Sanada reclined on a cushioned seat, one leg casually crossed over the other, as he leisurely perused the contents of an opened scroll. Wisps of smoke from his pipe drifted lazily upwards, casting a faint haze in the air. He seemed engrossed in the text before him, his brow furrowed in concentration, unaware of Anastasia's quiet entrance into the room.
As Anastasia approached the windows, her steps echoing softly in the chamber, she couldn't help but pause, drawn by the allure of the view beyond. Leaning lightly against the window frame, she cast her gaze towards the Center Courtyard Castle Grounds below, the bustling activity a stark contrast to the serene stillness of the war room.
In the corner of his eye, Sanada caught movement and glanced up from the scroll, his expression shifting subtly as he noticed Anastasia's presence. With a faint smile playing on his lips, he greeted her in his usual composed manner, the warmth of his voice cutting through the quiet of the room.
In the corner of his eye, Sanada caught movement and glanced up from the scroll, his expression shifting subtly as he noticed Anastasia's presence. With a faint smile playing on his lips, he greeted her in his usual composed manner, the warmth of his voice cutting through the quiet of the room.
"Ah, Ana," he began, his tone carrying a hint of mischief, "always a pleasure to see you grace our humble war room with your... considerable assets."
His gaze drifted, lingering a tad longer than appropriate on her chest, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. But Anastasia remained unfazed, her posture unwavering as she met his gaze with cool indifference.
Anastasia's expression remained unchanged, her gaze steady as she turned her attention towards Sanada. Ignoring his provocative remark with practiced ease, she responded coolly, "Your wit is as sharp as ever, Lord Sanada. I trust you've been keeping well?"
Sanada's playful demeanor faltered for a brief moment, feigning hurt with a hint of sarcasm. "Ah, wounded by your icy indifference," he replied, though the twinkle in his eye betrayed his amusement. "But worry not, my dear Anastasia, I am indeed in good health. Matters in Ueda Castle proceed as smoothly as can be expected."
The jest faded from his tone as he leaned forward slightly, a more serious expression crossing his features. "Now, if I may," he continued, his voice taking on a more somber note, "do you have the item I requested?"
Anastasia nodded in response, reaching into the folds of her garment to retrieve a small sealed scroll. She handed it to Rokuro, who had silently approached, waiting nearby. With a respectful bow, Rokuro accepted the scroll, then turned to carry it over to Sanada.
Sanada's eyes followed Rokuro's movements, his expression unreadable as he watched the scroll change hands. Once it was placed before him, he carefully broke the seal and unfurled its contents, his brow furrowing slightly as he scanned the text within. After a moment of contemplation, he looked up at Anastasia with a nod of approval.
"Thank you, Ana," he said, his voice tinged with a note of gratitude. "This will prove invaluable in the days to come."
Anastasia's expression remained impassive as she replied, "I would hope so, considering the favor it cost me to obtain that information." Her words carried a hint of seriousness, a reminder of the lengths she had gone to fulfill Sanada's request.
Sanada chuckled at her response, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Ah, my dear Ana, your efforts are always appreciated," he said, his tone teasing. "If you ever find yourself in need of some... personal time, I would be more than happy to oblige."
Anastasia rolled her eyes, unaffected by his jest. She returned to leaning lightly against the window frame, gazing out at the castle grounds below. The cool breeze ruffled her hair, and she closed her eyes, enjoying the sensation of the fresh air on her skin.
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45 Minutes Later | 11:25am - April, 13th, 1585
Ueda Castle, North East Castle Grounds, Northeast Watchtower
Saizo's footsteps echoed softly as he ascended the weathered stone steps of the Northeast watchtower, his senses alert for any sign of movement or disturbance. Each step brought him closer to the top floor, where he hoped to gain a better vantage point over the castle grounds below.
As he climbed, Saizo's mind raced with thoughts of Kamanosuke, his elusive quarry. The encounter from earlier lingered in his thoughts, a puzzle he was determined to unravel. With each passing moment, his resolve strengthened, driving him forward in his quest for answers.
Finally, reaching the top floor of the watchtower, Saizo pushed open the creaking wooden door and stepped into the spacious interior. The room was lined with sets of windows on all four sides, offering a panoramic view of the Northeast castle grounds below. Shafts of sunlight streamed through the glass, casting long shadows across the wooden floor.
Saizo's eyes swept over the interior, taking in the mostly abandoned gear scattered about the room. A long wooden table dominated the center, surrounded by chairs worn from years of use. Maps and scrolls lay strewn across the table, along with various tools of the trade. Despite the signs of past activity, the room now lay quiet and still, a testament to its disuse in recent times.
From this vantage point, he could see the entirety of the Northeast castle grounds, from the training fields to the dense forest beyond. With a steely gaze, Saizo scanned the area below, his senses sharp and alert as he continued his search for any sign of Kamanosuke's presence.
Saizo stood at the window, his gaze sweeping over the Northeast castle grounds spread out below him like a map. Despite the vastness of the landscape, there was no immediate sign of Kamanosuke's presence. He remained vigilant, his senses finely attuned to any hint of movement or disturbance.
Minutes passed in silence as Saizo continued to scan the area, his mind lost in thought. The sun cast shifting patterns of light and shadow across the landscape, painting the scene in hues of gold and green. Then, in the corner of his vision, a flicker of magenta caught his attention.
Saizo's sharp eyes narrowed as he focused on the distant figure, perched high in the treetops of the 3rd Training Plateau Mini Forest. The vibrant splash of magenta against the lush green canopy confirmed Kamanosuke's presence, his silhouette blending seamlessly with the foliage.
His heart quickened as he focused on the distant figure, perched high in the treetops. It was Kamanosuke, unmistakable in his distinctive attire. Before Saizo could react, the figure disappeared, plummeting back into the lush green canopy below.
With a sense of urgency, Saizo began to make preparations to leave the watchtower behind. He descended the steps swiftly, his movements purposeful as he readied himself for the task ahead. Each step brought him closer to the inevitable confrontation with Kamanosuke.
As he emerged from the watchtower, Saizo's senses were heightened, his focus unwavering. The distant silhouette of Kamanosuke lingered in his mind, driving him forward with renewed determination. With a silent vow, Saizo set off towards the 3rd Training Plateau, his eyes fixed on the horizon as he prepared to face whatever challenges awaited him there.
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Around The Same Time | 11:27am - April, 13th, 1545
Ueda Castle, North East Castle Grounds, 3rd Training Plateau Mini Forest
From his perch among the treetops, Kamanosuke remained hidden from view, a silent observer in the lush green canopy below. His magenta hair cascaded around him like a vibrant curtain, the color standing out against the verdant foliage. With nimble fingers, he idly toyed with the strands, lost in thought as he pondered his next move.
The forest around him hummed with life, the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of birds providing a soothing backdrop to his contemplation. In this moment of tranquility, Kamanosuke allowed himself to forget the troubles that had plagued him, if only for a fleeting moment. But beneath the calm facade, a storm of emotions raged within him, a turbulent sea of uncertainty and longing.
As he lay among the branches, Kamanosuke's mind drifted, his thoughts consumed by memories of Saizo and the tangled web of emotions that bound them together. With a heavy sigh, he pushed aside the tumultuous thoughts, focusing instead on the present moment.
As the moments passed, Kamanosuke's throat began to feel parched, a nagging sensation that pulled him from his reverie. With a faint grimace, he reached for his canteen, hoping to quench his thirst. But as he unscrewed the cap and tilted the container to his lips, he realized with growing annoyance that it was empty.
Exasperated, Kamanosuke let out a frustrated sigh, his irritation evident in the furrow of his brow. Resigned to the fact that he would need to replenish his water supply, he tucked the empty canteen back into his sash. With a fluid motion, he rose from his prone position among the branches, stretching his arms upward in a languid stretch.
Feeling the tension ebb from his muscles, Kamanosuke took a deep breath, savoring the crisp scent of the forest air. Then, with a silent resolve, he leaped from the treetops, plummeting gracefully down into the lush green canopy below.
As Kamanosuke descended through the canopy, he moved with a dancer's grace, navigating from one branch to the next with practiced ease. Each leap brought him closer to the forest floor, his movements fluid and precise.
With a final graceful jump, Kamanosuke landed softly on the ground below, his boots sinking slightly into the soft earth. He straightened, his gaze scanning the surrounding landscape as he took a moment to orient himself.
A sigh escaped his lips, a mixture of relief and resignation, before he set off towards the nearby freshwater pond. He knew it was only a short walk away, a familiar oasis nestled amidst the verdant embrace of the forest. With each step, the sound of trickling water grew louder, a soothing melody that beckoned him forward.
Arriving at the edge of the freshwater pond, Kamanosuke wasted no time in fulfilling his immediate need. Kneeling down beside the clear, shimmering water, he unfastened the empty canteen from his sash and dipped it into the pond, the cool liquid filling it with a soft gurgle.
As the canteen filled, Kamanosuke took a moment to quench his own thirst, cupping his hands to scoop up the refreshing water and bring it to his lips. The coolness washed over his parched throat, soothing the dryness that had plagued him.
With his thirst momentarily sated, Kamanosuke leaned back on his haunches, the water's edge mere inches from his fingertips. Peering into the clear, shimmering surface of the pond, he caught sight of his own reflection gazing back at him.
There, amidst the tranquil ripples, Kamanosuke saw the image of a warrior staring back at him. His long, magenta hair framed his face, his features sharp and determined. Despite the weariness that lingered in his eyes, there was a fierce pride that burned within him.
For a moment, he allowed himself to admire the reflection, taking pride in the image he presented to the world. It was a reminder of the strength and resilience that lay within him, a testament to the countless battles he had fought and overcome.
Feeling a sudden wave of heat washing over him, Kamanosuke's instincts kicked in. With a swift motion, he plunged his right hand into the cool water, splashing it about with an almost childlike delight. The refreshing sensation sent shivers down his spine, offering a brief reprieve from the stifling heat of the nearing noon day.
Wanting more relief from the sweltering temperature, Kamanosuke leaned closer to the water's edge, his face hovering just above the surface. With a deft motion, he cupped his hands and scooped up a handful of cold water, splashing it onto his face.
The sensation was invigorating, the icy water providing a welcome relief from the oppressive heat. As droplets cascaded down his skin, Kamanosuke felt a renewed sense of energy coursing through his veins, his weariness momentarily forgotten in the embrace of the cool, refreshing water.
Absorbed in the invigorating coolness of the water, Kamanosuke casually made his way to the welcoming shade of a nearby tree. Sunlight filtered gently through the dense foliage, casting a serene glow over the surroundings.
Settling himself on the soft earth, Kamanosuke leaned back against the sturdy trunk of the tree, relishing the relief from the oppressive heat. The gentle rustle of leaves overhead provided a calming backdrop to the serene scene before him.
From his vantage point, he could see the tranquil expanse of the crystal-clear pond, its surface shimmering in the sunlight. The sight was mesmerizing, the sparkling water inviting him to linger a while longer in its embrace.
With a contented sigh, Kamanosuke closed his eyes, allowing himself to be enveloped by the tranquility of the moment. The soft murmur of the forest and the cool shade of the tree offered a respite from the chaos of the world, a sanctuary of peace amidst the tense currents of life.
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Around 12 Minutes Later | 11:40am - April, 13th, 1585
Ueda Castle, North East Castle Grounds, 3rd Training Plateau Mini Forest
Saizo pressed forward through the lightly forested area of the third training ground, his senses attuned to the subtle sounds of nature around him. With each step, the soft snap of twigs beneath his tabi sandals and the gentle rustle of leaves in the wind accompanied his journey.
The air was alive with the symphony of the forest, the distant chirping of birds and the faint rustle of small creatures in the underbrush creating a soothing backdrop to his movements. Saizo moved with a silent determination, his focus unwavering as he navigated the dense foliage that surrounded him.
As he ventured deeper into the forest, the sunlight filtered through the thick canopy overhead, casting shifting patterns of light and shadow on the forest floor.
Saizo continued to tread through the forest, his steps deliberate yet silent amidst the natural cacophony. He kept his senses sharp, his eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of the elusive figure he sought.
After what felt like an eternity of weaving through the dense foliage, Saizo's keen gaze finally caught a glimpse of the vibrant magenta he had been searching for. Against the backdrop of the forest, he spotted Kamanosuke, seated beneath a tree near a freshwater pond.
Kamanosuke appeared to be resting against the trunk of the tree, his figure relaxed amidst the serene surroundings.
Saizo paused in silence, his trained senses sharp for any sign of Kamanosuke's awareness. As he scrutinized the figure beneath the tree more closely, he discerned the rhythmic rise and fall of Kamanosuke's chest, indicating that he was asleep.
It became apparent that Kamanosuke was indeed asleep, his form nestled against the tree trunk in the cool shade near the pond. Saizo's lips quirked in a faint smirk at the unexpected turn of events. This provided an opportunity—a chance to approach undetected and perhaps gather valuable information without alerting his quarry.
With cautious yet purposeful steps, Saizo advanced, taking care not to disturb the tranquility of the forest around him. He closed the distance between himself and Kamanosuke, his mind racing with possibilities for how to proceed.
Saizo cautiously closed the distance, his steps calculated to avoid disturbing the peaceful scene. Within only a few feet of Kamanosuke, he leaned down, studying the peaceful expression on his sleeping face.
As he observed Kamanosuke's serene visage, a wave of introspection washed over Saizo. In this moment of rest, Kamanosuke appeared calm and unguarded, a stark contrast to the fierce determination he often exhibited.
Saizo's gaze lingered on Kamanosuke's features, his mind swirling with contemplation. 'Is Kamanosuke truly a woman?' he pondered silently.
He had assumed so when they first met, but over time, Saizo had come to his own conclusion: Kamanosuke was indeed male, not female. Yet, as he observed Kamanosuke up close like this, doubts crept back in. It was certainly hard to say definitively.
'There's been speculation, but no concrete evidence,' Saizo thought to himself. The ambiguity surrounding Kamanosuke's gender added an intriguing layer to their mysterious persona. As Saizo mulled over the enigma before him, he couldn't shake the nagging uncertainty that clouded Kamanosuke's true identity.
Truthfully, it honestly didn't really matter to him anyways, Saizo reflected. 'Besides, look at how pretty their face is, male or not they were…'
His train of thought was abruptly interrupted by the dawning realization of what he just thought.
'What?' Saizo's thoughts echoed in his mind, a note of confusion creeping in. 'What did I just think?'
He repeated the question to himself, caught off guard by the unexpected nature of his own thoughts. The realization sent a jolt through him.
Saizo's gaze lingered intently on Kamanosuke's face, scrutinizing every detail. There was an undeniable grace to his features, a beauty that transcended gender. However, as Saizo's gaze drifted downward to Kamanosuke's chest, he couldn't help but notice its flatness.
'Well, it certainly would make sense if Kamanosuke did turn out to be male,' Saizo mused inwardly.
Saizo continued his inner monologue, his thoughts swirling with confusion. 'What did I mean when I said it wouldn't matter what their gender was?' he pondered silently. The point of having thought it was completely lost on him.
'Did I mean it in some sort of sexual way?' Saizo questioned himself, his brows furrowing in deep thought. The idea seemed foreign to him. He didn't have romantic feelings towards anyone, let alone this enigmatic person sitting before him.
As Saizo wrestled with his perplexing thoughts, he found himself inexplicably drawn closer to Kamanosuke. With cautious yet determined movements, he remained just a few feet away, his gaze fixed on the slumbering figure before him.
Just a little closer, he thought to himself, his movements almost instinctual now. He wanted to get a better look at Kamanosuke's face, to scrutinize every detail and erase any lingering doubts. Yes, that was the reason.
As Saizo edged closer and closer, their faces just around a foot apart, fate intervened. In an unfortunate twist of timing, this was the exact moment Kamanosuke chose to awaken. Slowly, their eyes fluttered open, only to find Saizo kneeling nearby, their faces uncomfortably close.
Frozen in shock, Saizo halted abruptly, while Kamanosuke's face flushed crimson, turning the shade of a ripe tomato. The sudden closeness left them both speechless, caught in an awkward moment neither had anticipated.