Chapter 2.4: Veiled Intentions
"Kamanosuke" - Speech
'Saizo' - Thought
"{Dragons Fang}" - Attack / Abilities
"Halt!" - Loudspeaker / Orders / Something Loud
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1:40pm - April, 13th, 1585
Ueda Castle, Center Castle Grounds, Main Courtyard Structure And Training Zone
Saizo and Kamanosuke strolled together towards the bustling heart of Ueda Castle, their footsteps echoing softly against the dirt pathway. The midday sun cast warm rays over the castle grounds, enveloping them in a golden glow as they traversed the familiar terrain.
Saizo couldn't help but grumble lightly as they walked, his stomach rumbling in protest. "Looks like we missed out on getting lunch," he remarked, a hint of annoyance in his voice.
Kamanosuke glanced sideways at Saizo, a mischievous glint dancing in his eyes. "Who says we can't still grab something to eat?" he suggested, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "The kitchen staff are always available throughout the day. There's nothing stopping us from going now."
Saizo thought about Kamanosuke's suggestion, but shook his head in refusal. "As tempting as that sounds, I think I'll pass," he replied, a note of weariness creeping into his voice. "I could use some time to rest up in my room before dinner tonight. Besides, I wouldn't want to trouble the kitchen staff with a last-minute request."
Kamanosuke shrugged, his playful demeanor undeterred. "Suit yourself," he said with a nonchalant shrug.
As they continued on their path, Saizo's gaze wandered across the bustling castle grounds, taking in the sight of soldiers sparring and training under the watchful eye of their instructors. Amidst the flurry of activity, he spotted Benmaru at the center castle grounds training center, engaged in conversation with an idle lieutenant from the infantry.
Saizo nodded in recognition as they approached, offering a brief wave of greeting. "Benmaru," he called out, his voice carrying across the training grounds. "What brings you here?"
Benmaru turned towards Saizo and Kamanosuke, a bright smile illuminating his youthful features. "Saizo! Kamanosuke! Fancy meeting you both here," he exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine warmth.
Saizo returned the smile with a nod of acknowledgment. "We were just passing by," he replied, gesturing towards the ongoing training sessions around them. "Looks like things are quite lively here today."
Kamanosuke's eyes sparkled with excitement as he interjected, "Yeah, we were just talking about grabbing something to eat, but Saizo here decided to pass up on the opportunity."
Benmaru's eyes widened with curiosity as he turned his attention to Saizo and Kamanosuke. "Oh? Were you two having a friendly spar?" he asked, his tone filled with intrigue. "Who won?"
Saizo chuckled softly, shaking his head. "No, nothing like that," he explained, waving off the notion. "Just some friendly banter, that's all."
Kamanosuke, on the other hand, couldn't resist adding a playful jab. "Saizo was just too scared to take me on," he teased, a smirk playing on his lips.
Saizo rolled his eyes, but his lips twitched in a suppressed smile. "Right, because that's exactly what happened," he retorted, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
Benmaru laughed at their banter, enjoying the light-hearted exchange. "Well, as long as it was all in good fun," he remarked, glancing between Saizo and Kamanosuke. "So, what brings you both here today?"
Saizo shifted slightly, subtly trying to steer the conversation away from the earlier altercation with Kamanosuke. "Oh, you know, nothing much," he replied casually, offering a nonchalant shrug. "Just passing through, taking in the sights."
Benmaru raised an eyebrow, noting Saizo's attempt to steer the conversation away from their earlier exchange. Deciding not to press further, he redirected the focus to Saizo's inquiry. "Well, truth be told, I'm just here to take a break and catch some of the action," he admitted, gesturing toward the sparring soldiers in the background. "But don't let this fool you; I've been quite busy lately."
Saizo's interest piqued at Benmaru's mention of recent projects. "Oh? Anything interesting keeping you occupied?" he inquired, a curious glint in his eyes.
Benmaru's smile widened as he nodded enthusiastically. "Actually, yes! I've been working on a new schematic for an explosive device that Lord Sanada requested," he revealed, his tone tinged with excitement. "It's been quite the challenge, but I'm making good progress."
Kamanosuke's enthusiasm waned at the mention of explosives, his expression turning slightly sour. "Explosives, huh?" he interjected, a hint of disdain creeping into his voice. "I've always believed that if you want to win fights, you just have to take them out the old-fashioned way, and slice them up real good."
Kamanosuke couldn't hide his excitement. His eyes gleamed with a fervent passion as he spoke, barely able to contain his joy. "I mean, don't get me wrong, I get the appeal of blowing things up," he admitted, his tone tinged with reluctant admiration. "But there's something about the thrill of a good old-fashioned sword fight that just can't be beaten."
Saizo shot Kamanosuke a sidelong glance, hoping they wouldn't get too out of hand. He turned back to Benmaru, a supportive smile on his face. "Well, regardless of how we choose to fight, your expertise is invaluable," he remarked, nodding to them. "I'm sure the old man will be pleased with your work."
Benmaru beamed at Saizo's words, grateful for the encouragement. "Thanks, Saizo. I appreciate that," he replied, his tone sincere. "It's a challenging project, but I'm confident I can deliver something impressive."
As they continued their conversation, Benmaru's expression brightened with a new piece of information. "Oh, speaking of recent events, Miyoshi came back earlier," he mentioned, his tone tinged with excitement. "I don't have all the details, but from what I've heard, it seems like things went well."
Saizo's interest was immediately piqued at the mention of Miyoshi's return. "That's good to hear," he replied. "Did he mention anything about the training mission?"
Benmaru nodded, recalling the bits of information he had gathered. "Not much, but it seems like the group that went with him for the monk physical training has been paying off," he explained. "It should definitely aid in our chances of survival out there."
Saizo nodded in agreement, pleased to hear of their progress. "Glad to hear they're making headway," he remarked, a sense of pride evident in his voice. "We'll need all the help we can get in the days to come."
As their conversation continued, the lively atmosphere of the castle grounds was interrupted by the arrival of Anastasia. Her presence brought a sense of warmth and cheerfulness, and the soldiers nearby greeted her with fond smiles and respectful nods.
"Ana," Saizo greeted her. "Good to see you. How's everything?"
Anastasia returned the greeting with a bright smile, her eyes reflecting a calm and cold precision. "Oh, everything's just fine," she replied cheerfully. "Just catching up with a few people before I head out into the village for some errands."
As Anastasia exchanged pleasantries with Saizo and the others, her keen intuition picked up on a subtle shift in the dynamic between Saizo and Kamanosuke. There was an unspoken tension lingering in the air, a faint undercurrent of something unresolved.
Her gaze flickered between the two warriors, noting the guarded expressions and the careful way they interacted with each other. It was as if a silent exchange had passed between them, one that spoke volumes without a single word uttered.
Anastasia's lips curved into a knowing smile, though she kept her observations to herself. She was well acquainted with the complexities of human relationships, the unspoken bonds and silent struggles that often went unnoticed by others.
As Anastasia observed the subtle tension between Saizo and Kamanosuke, she decided to leave them with a cryptic remark, knowing it would likely go over their heads. With a faint smile, she remarked, "Sometimes, the shadows of the past dance in the present."
With that enigmatic statement, Anastasia bid them farewell, leaving Saizo and Kamanosuke momentarily puzzled. However, the cryptic nature of her words left them pondering for only a moment before they shrugged it off, attributing it to Anastasia's enigmatic personality.
After Anastasia's departure, Saizo decided it was time to part ways as well. "I'll catch you guys later." he said, giving a nod to both Kamanosuke and Benmaru before heading off towards his room.
Kamanosuke watched him go, a hint of disappointment flickering across his features. However, he quickly shrugged it off. "Later," he called out.
As Saizo disappeared from view, Kamanosuke's gaze shifted towards the East Wing of the castle grounds, where the storage buildings stood tall. A reminder flashed through his mind—he needed to collect some supplies.
Kamanosuke gave a quick, somewhat brusque "See ya," to Benmaru, barely looking back as he headed towards the East Wing of the castle grounds. Benmaru, unfazed by Kamanosuke's abruptness, simply waved back happily, understanding that it was just in Kamanosuke's nature to act that way.
As Kamanosuke disappeared around a corner, Benmaru turned his attention back to the ongoing training, eager to see how the soldiers were progressing.
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Around 4 Hours Later 6:25pm - April, 13th, 1585
Ueda Castle, North Wing, Main Castle Palace Structure, Great Hall
As dinner time approached, Saizo made his way towards the Great Hall, his footsteps echoing softly in the corridor. Lost in his thoughts, he didn't notice Kamanosuke leaning against the wall near the entrance to the hall until he was almost upon him.
Surprised, Saizo paused, a slight furrow forming on his brow as he registered Kamanosuke's presence. "Oh, you're here," he remarked, a touch of confusion coloring his tone.
Kamanosuke straightened up, a playful glint in his eyes. "Of course, I'm here," he replied with a smirk. "You didn't think I'd forget our little arrangement, did you?"
Saizo's brows furrowed deeper as realization dawned on him, remembering his promise to Kamanosuke. Though somewhat annoyed, he resigned himself to his fate. "Right, our agreement," he muttered, his tone tinged with a hint of frustration.
With a somewhat ushered pace, Saizo moved towards the entrance of the Great Hall, eager to get this over with. Despite his earlier rest, he still felt somewhat exhausted from the day's events, his fatigue lingering like an unwelcome shadow.
Kamanosuke's playful demeanor shifted slightly, his tone taking on a touch of irritation. "Just remember, Saizo," he said, his voice edged with a hint of warning, "you better not go back on your word. Don't think you can just rush through everything."
Saizo glanced sideways at Kamanosuke, sensing the underlying tension in his words. He sighed inwardly, realizing he had struck a nerve. "I won't," he replied quietly. "Let's just get this over with."
Saizo pushed open the heavy double doors that led into the Great Hall, with Kamanosuke following closely behind. The hall was bustling with activity as the evening meal was being served. Saizo's stomach grumbled in protest, a reminder of his missed lunch.
As Saizo and Kamanosuke entered the Great Hall, they were greeted by the grandeur of the expansive space. The hall was one of the largest chambers in the palace, occupying a central position on the second floor. Its towering ceilings reached up to the third floor of the palace structure, lending an air of majesty to the surroundings.
The first floor of the Great Hall was abuzz with activity. Rows of long tables filled the space, adorned with simple yet sturdy wooden chairs. Soldiers from Sanada's retinue mingled with castle servants, their voices echoing off the high walls. The atmosphere was lively, punctuated by the clinking of cutlery and the murmur of conversation.
At the far end of the hall, the serving section bustled with activity. Cooks and servers moved with practiced efficiency, doling out hearty portions of food to the hungry diners. The aroma of freshly cooked meals wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of polished wood and candle wax.
Towards the back of the hall, at the northern end, was the entrance to the serving hall. Large double doors on both sides of the serving section led into the bustling kitchen area, where cooks labored over open flames, preparing meals fit for warriors.
The second floor of the Great Hall provided a different perspective on the bustling activity below. Accessible by wooden staircases on both the west and east sides of the room, the second floor offered a more secluded and VIP-like experience.
The design was intentionally open, with no full walls between the first and second floors, creating a sense of grandeur and spaciousness. As Saizo and Kamanosuke ascended the staircase, they found themselves surrounded by the same sturdy wooden tables, albeit in a more exclusive setting.
The tables on the second floor were positioned along the walls, allowing diners to enjoy a bit more privacy while still having access to the lively atmosphere below. Large windows lined the walls, offering views of the castle grounds and letting in streams of natural light.
Made entirely of wood, the second floor wrapped around the perimeter of the Great Hall, acting as a balcony of sorts. From this vantage point, diners could look down upon the first floor tables and serving area, observing the activity below while enjoying their meal in relative tranquility.
The second floor of the Great Hall held one of the most prestigious spots in the entire room—the Lord's table. Positioned at the center of the room, on the northern side facing back towards the south, the Great Lord's Table was where Sanada Yukimura himself often dined.
This table was grander than the others, adorned with fine linens and polished silverware. It boasted many extra seating arrangements for higher-ranked individuals, including spaces reserved for officers and the Braves, should they wish to dine there.
Among Sanada's retinue, the Braves held a particularly esteemed position, commanding authority directly from Sanada himself. As such, they were granted the privilege of dining at the Lord's table whenever they pleased, a testament to their status and importance within the clan.
The arrangement of the Lord's table ensured that those seated there had an unobstructed view of the entire Great Hall, allowing them to observe the activity below while enjoying their meal in the company of their fellow warriors and advisors.
It was important to note that there was more than just the central area of the Great Hall. On the west and east sides of the first floor, there were secondary sections known as the Minor Halls. These areas were accessed through massive double wooden doors, which opened to reveal spaces much like the main hall but with additional dining arrangements.
As we return to the details of the first floor, it's important to note that there was more than just the central area of the Great Hall. On the west and east sides of the first floor, there were secondary sections known as the Minor Halls. These areas were accessed through massive double wooden doors, which opened to reveal spaces much like the main hall but with additional dining arrangements.
The design of the Minor Halls mirrored that of the central Great Hall, with rows of long tables and sturdy wooden chairs. However, these sections were typically less frequented, reserved for occasions when extra seating was needed or when hosting large groups of people such as other lords and their accompanying retinues.
While the Great Hall itself was the focal point of most gatherings and meals, the Minor Halls provided flexibility and additional space when required. Despite their relative rarity of use, they were still integral parts of the palace structure, contributing to the grandeur and versatility of the overall design.
Kamanosuke's eyes gleamed with a mischievous spark. "I think we should be served this time," he declared, his tone firm yet playful. "I'll go let the serving staff know we'll be dining on the second floor. Why don't you find us a nice table up there?"
Saizo hesitated, feeling somewhat uncomfortable with the idea. Unlike many others, he preferred to fetch his own food from the serving area rather than having servants wait on him like some sort of lord. While the Braves and officer-level soldiers were granted this authority, Saizo rarely took advantage of it.
"I'm fine fetching my own food," Saizo replied, his voice carrying a note of reluctance. "I don't need to be served like that."
Kamanosuke raised an eyebrow, sensing Saizo's discomfort. "It's not about being served, Saizo," he countered gently. "Sometimes it's nice to enjoy a change of pace and let others take care of things for a change."
Saizo mulled over Kamanosuke's words, silently weighing his options. Ultimately, he relented with a sigh. "Fine," he conceded, though the reluctance still lingered in his voice. "Second floor it is."
Kamanosuke sauntered over to the serving area to inform them about their seating and dinner arrangements. Meanwhile, Saizo sighed inwardly and reluctantly ascended the steps of the east side wooden staircase to the second floor.
As he reached the top, Saizo scanned the area, looking for a spot against the palace structure's walls that offered a good view of the outside. He preferred the quiet corners, away from the bustling activity of the central area. Finding a secluded table, he settled into a chair, gazing out of the window at the castle grounds below.
The evening sun cast long shadows across the landscape, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Despite his initial reluctance, Saizo couldn't deny the serene beauty of the scene before him.
Saizo had chosen a table for two nestled in a secluded corner of the second floor. While the spot offered a certain level of privacy and tranquility, it came with a trade-off. Unlike other seating locations on the second floor, this spot provided only half the view of the main first floor.
From his vantage point, Saizo could see a portion of the bustling activity below, but his view was partially obstructed by the structure of the hall itself. However, the slight sacrifice in visibility was worth it for the sense of seclusion it afforded him.
As he settled into his chair, Saizo leaned back slightly, taking in the soothing ambiance of the Great Hall. The soft chatter of diners below and the gentle clinking of cutlery blended harmoniously with the warm evening light filtering through the windows.
Saizo's gaze shifted as he noticed Kamanosuke finishing up his conversation with the servants at the serving area. With a fluid motion, Kamanosuke turned and began walking towards the stairs leading to the second floor. Saizo couldn't help but admire the gracefulness of Kamanosuke's stride.
There was something inherently striking about Kamanosuke when they wanted to be. Their movements were fluid, exuding an air of confidence and presence that commanded attention. It was moments like these that reminded Saizo of the depth of Kamanosuke's character, hidden beneath layers of bravado and mischief.
Saizo couldn't help but notice the way Kamanosuke's long hair flowed behind them as they walked, the strands catching the light and dancing with each step. It was a mesmerizing sight, watching the dark locks bob up and down as Kamanosuke ascended the stairs with effortless grace.
Despite the simple act of climbing the stairs, Kamanosuke managed to make it look almost elegant. Saizo found himself momentarily captivated by the sight, the play of light and shadow adding to the allure of the scene.
Yet, for all their charm and charisma, Kamanosuke had a penchant for being obnoxious when the mood struck them. It was a trait that both amused and frustrated Saizo, a constant reminder of the complexities of their relationship.
As Kamanosuke ascended the stairs, Saizo couldn't help but shake his head with a faint smile. Some things never changed.
As Kamanosuke reached the top of the stairs and turned towards the second floor, their hair settled into a natural cascade down their back. Saizo tore his gaze away, feeling a slight flush of embarrassment at noticing how he had been staring.
As Kamanosuke's eyes scanned the area, they quickly noticed Saizo sitting at the secluded table, and a mischievous grin spread across their face. Sauntering over with an air of cockiness, Kamanosuke approached Saizo's table.
Saizo, sensing Kamanosuke's approach, rolled his eyes in anticipation, mentally preparing himself for whatever antics Kamanosuke had in store. He knew that grin all too well—it usually preceded some sort of playful, if not slightly irritating, behavior.
"Enjoying the view, are we?" Kamanosuke teased as they reached the table, gesturing to the window with a knowing smirk.
Saizo sighed, shaking his head. "I was until you showed up," he replied, unable to suppress a small smile despite his annoyance. It was a familiar exchange between them, one that played out often but never failed to amuse.
Kamanosuke couldn't hide their mild annoyance as they glanced around the secluded spot Saizo had chosen. "Could you have picked a more remote spot out of everywhere in the great hall?" they remarked, a hint of exasperation in their voice. "How is anyone supposed to see the general respect if no one can see us?"
With a theatrical flourish, Kamanosuke plopped themselves into the chair opposite Saizo, their expression a mix of playful annoyance and genuine amusement. Despite their grumbling, there was a playful twinkle in their eyes, indicating that their irritation was more for show than anything else.
Saizo chuckled, shaking his head at Kamanosuke's theatrics. "You know I prefer a bit of peace and quiet," he replied, a hint of defensiveness in his tone. "Besides, we can still see everything from here."
Kamanosuke waved off Saizo's explanation with a dramatic gesture. "Oh, well, if you're trying to avoid the lively atmosphere, I suppose this spot will do just fine," they conceded, their tone dripping with sarcasm. "But don't blame me if you miss out on all the fun."
Saizo rolled his eyes, knowing full well that Kamanosuke would find a way to inject some excitement into their dinner, whether he liked it or not.
As they sat at the table, engaging in small talk and exchanging banter, their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of a servant bearing their food. The servant delicately placed the dishes before them, a spread of savory aromas rising from the plates.
Saizo offered a polite nod of thanks to the servant, acknowledging their service with a quiet gratitude. Meanwhile, Kamanosuke was more focused on the food laid out before them, barely sparing a glance for the servant as they began to hungrily eye their meal.
With the arrival of the food, the conversation lulled as both Saizo and Kamanosuke eagerly dug into their meals, the clinking of cutlery filling the air as they savored the flavors in contented silence. Despite the earlier tension and playful banter, there was a sense of camaraderie in sharing this simple meal together.
Saizo couldn't help but admit to himself internally that the dinner wasn't turning out as bad as he had initially anticipated. Surprisingly, Kamanosuke seemed to be on their best behavior, showing no signs of causing a scene or stirring up trouble. It was a pleasant change from their usual dynamic, and Saizo found himself silently acknowledging that Kamanosuke hadn't seemed to set out with the goal or intention of doing so tonight.
As they continued to eat, Saizo found himself relaxing slightly, the tension of the day slowly ebbing away with each bite of food. The savory flavors danced on his palate, offering a momentary respite from the rigors of their duties and the weight of their responsibilities.
As they continued to eat, Kamanosuke noticed the takoyaki on Saizo's plate, seemingly untouched. With a curious expression, they gestured towards the dish. "Hey, are you going to eat your takoyaki?" Kamanosuke asked, breaking the comfortable silence between them.
Saizo glanced down at his plate, realizing he hadn't touched the takoyaki yet. "Oh, yeah, of course," he replied. "I just haven't gotten to it yet."
Kamanosuke nodded, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of their lips. "Well, don't let it get cold," they teased, reaching over to take a piece from Saizo's plate.
"Oi!" Saizo exclaimed, a hint of annoyance in his tone as Kamanosuke nabbed a piece of takoyaki from his plate. "What the heck, Kamanosuke? If you want more, there's literally a whole kitchen filled with food downstairs."
Kamanosuke, after chewing and swallowing the stolen food, looked up at Saizo, sticking their tongue out and making a playful "blehhh" noise, clearly enjoying the opportunity to tease Saizo.
As Saizo observed Kamanosuke's playful antics, a wave of conflicting emotions washed over him. Despite the annoyance at having his food pilfered, he couldn't help but notice how endearing Kamanosuke looked at that moment. Their playful expression, with that mischievous tongue sticking out, and the hint of a smile dancing on their lips, seemed to soften Saizo's irritation.
But what caught Saizo's attention the most were Kamanosuke's lips. They were incredibly pretty, with a natural fullness and a subtle rosy hue that seemed to draw the eye. Saizo's gaze was irresistibly drawn to their lips, noticing the way they curved ever so slightly into a smile.
Saizo's mind raced as he found himself fixated on Kamanosuke's lips. It made him ponder back to when Kamanosuke had admitted to being male, and yet, their lips looked so... So what? Saizo struggled to articulate his thoughts, his mind caught in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions and unspoken questions.
Saizo took a moment to collect himself, clearing his throat as he tried to redirect his focus. "You're such a child," he remarked, his voice tinged with amusement as he attempted to steer the conversation away from his internal musings.
Kamanosuke chuckled at Saizo's playful jab. "And you're a sore loser," he retorted with a grin, his eyes sparkling mischievously. He made a playful attempt to steal another piece of takoyaki from Saizo's plate, but before he could grab it, Saizo's chopsticks moved with lightning speed, intercepting Kamanosuke's mid-air.
Caught off guard, Kamanosuke blinked in surprise, his grin widening into a playful smirk. "Fast reflexes," he remarked, impressed by Saizo's agility.
Saizo smirked back, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. "You'll have to be quicker than that to outsmart me," he replied, his competitive spirit rising to the surface.
Kamanosuke's playful smirk widened as he teased Saizo. "Oh? Says the one who has already lost one piece," he remarked, his tone laced with amusement. "Looking to lose another?" With a flourish, he moved his hand, the chopsticks still locked together, up and down in a playful manner, emphasizing his point.
Saizo raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "I never said I wasn't up for a challenge," he replied, his competitive spirit undeterred. With a swift motion, he mirrored Kamanosuke's gesture, the chopsticks dancing in tandem with his movements.
As the banter between Saizo and Kamanosuke continued, the scene shifted to Sanada Yukimura, who had entered the Great Hall just a few minutes prior. Seated at his Lord's table, he quietly enjoyed his meal, his presence commanding respect even in the midst of the bustling hall.
Sanada glanced around the table, noting the absence of his Braves. It was not an unusual occurrence, yet a small tinge of disappointment flickered within him. Nevertheless, he always had Rokuro, who sat next to him, partaking in their meal in silence.
Despite the absence of his closest advisors, Sanada remained composed, his focus unwavering as he observed the activity in the Great Hall. He was accustomed to solitude, finding solace in the quiet moments amidst the chaos of clan affairs.
As Sanada glanced around the Great Hall, he took note of the presence of several officers seated nearby. Among them were a few captains and multiple lieutenants, all partaking in their evening meal just like every night. Their presence provided a sense of comfort and reassurance to Sanada, reminding him of the loyalty and dedication of his subjects.
Some of the officers engaged in discussions about military matters, their voices carrying snippets of strategy and tactics. Others conversed about personal activities, sharing stories and anecdotes from their daily lives. Despite the diversity of topics, there was an underlying camaraderie among them, born from their shared service to the Sanada clan.
Sanada listened with quiet satisfaction, occasionally interjecting with a nod or a brief comment to acknowledge their contributions to the conversation. He found solace in these moments of camaraderie, knowing that he was not alone in shouldering the burdens of leadership.
As Sanada's gaze wandered across the Great Hall, he noticed Saizo and Kamanosuke seated together at a table in the distance, engaged in their own meal. The sight struck him as odd, considering that the two of them didn't typically dine together. It was a rare occurrence, one that piqued Sanada's curiosity and prompted a soft chuckle to escape his lips.
The unexpected sight of Saizo and Kamanosuke sharing a meal together sparked a fleeting moment of amusement in Sanada. He couldn't help but find humor in the unusual pairing, a testament to the unpredictable dynamics that often unfolded within his retinue.
As Sanada observed from a distance, Saizo and Kamanosuke suddenly stood up from their table. Despite not having the best view, Sanada could discern that both of them appeared to be engaged in some sort of struggle over something in the middle of the table. It seemed as though they were fighting over an object held between two sets of chopsticks, their movements animated and determined.
Intrigued by the unexpected turn of events, Sanada leaned forward slightly, his interest piqued by the unfolding scene. He couldn't help but wonder what could have prompted such a sudden bout of competition between Saizo and Kamanosuke, especially during what had started as a seemingly ordinary dinner.
As the commotion at their table continued, Sanada found himself increasingly curious about the nature of their disagreement. Whatever it was, it seemed to have captured the attention of those around them, drawing amused glances and whispers from nearby diners.
As the scene unfolded, Rokuro leaned in closer to Sanada, their voice barely above a whisper. "Always taking an interest in others," they remarked, their tone tinged with amusement. "I just hope you don't intend to come between the two of them or pull some sort of strings."
Sanada chuckled softly at Rokuro's remark, shaking his head in response. "I have no intention of doing so," he replied quietly, his gaze shifting towards Rokuro. "Things like that should steer their own course."
Sanada then leaned even closer to Rokuro, a playful glint in his eyes. "Feeling jealous of my attention on others?" he teased, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips.
As Rokuro blushed lightly at Sanada's teasing remark, they glanced up at him before diverting their gaze back down towards their food, a shy smile playing on their lips. "If you wish it," they replied softly, their voice barely audible above the din of the hall.
Sanada smiled warmly at Rokuro's response, sensing their slight embarrassment. He reached over, placing a comforting arm around Rokuro's shoulders and giving them a gentle squeeze. "You know I value your company above all," he murmured reassuringly, before returning his attention to his own meal.
Together, they sat in companionable silence, enjoying the simple pleasure of each other's presence amidst the lively atmosphere of the Great Hall. As they continued to eat, the commotion at Saizo and Kamanosuke's table gradually subsided, the two warriors seemingly reaching a resolution in their playful contest.
Suddenly, Saizo and Kamanosuke both simultaneously sit back down at their table, laughing and wiping the sweat from their foreheads. It was clear to the observers that they had reached some sort of agreement or conclusion to their playful dispute.
As they settled back into their seats, Kamanosuke let out an excited yet lightly annoyed exasperated noise, addressing Saizo with a playful tone. "Next time, I'll win, and you won't even come close," they declared, their competitive spirit shining through despite their apparent defeat.
Saizo chuckled in response, shaking his head at Kamanosuke's determination. "You wish," he retorted, a smirk playing on his lips. "I'll be ready for whatever you throw at me."
Kamanosuke's eyes sparkled with mischief as they leaned in closer to Saizo, their playful grin widening. "Is that a challenge?" they asked, a hint of excitement in their voice.
Saizo met Kamanosuke's gaze with a confident smirk. "Bring it on," he replied, his tone daring. "But you better bring your best effort, because if you have any hope of defeating me, it's not gonna be easy."
Kamanosuke's confidence shone through as they declared, "I'll do whatever it takes to win, and I'll take on any challenge. Pick anything you want, I won't lose to you." Their words carried a tone of determination and assurance.
Saizo, unfazed, continued eating his food, his expression nonchalant. "Anything?" he repeated, raising an eyebrow inquisitively. The challenge intrigued him, and he couldn't resist pushing the boundaries of their playful rivalry.
Kamanosuke's eyes sparkled with excitement as they declared, "Anything!" Their enthusiasm only fueled Saizo's playful challenge.
As Saizo looked into Kamanosuke's eyes, he felt a sudden intensity in the air. Kamanosuke's confident declaration echoed in his mind—Anything! The word lingered, stirring something within Saizo, something unexpected.
Caught off guard by the intensity of the moment, Saizo's mind wandered into unfamiliar territory. He found himself inadvertently drawn to Kamanosuke in a way that went beyond their usual banter. The thought of a challenge, one that was undoubtedly inappropriate, crossed his mind, and for a moment, he lost his focus.
As the realization of his thoughts hit him, Saizo's airway seemed to constrict, and he began to choke on his food. Coughing and sputtering, he tried to regain his composure, his face flushed with embarrassment and shock at the direction his thoughts had taken.
Kamanosuke couldn't contain their laughter at Saizo's expense, amused by the way Saizo seemed to have choked on his food. Between chuckles, Kamanosuke teased, "I bet you just imagined yourself losing."
Their laughter echoed in the Great Hall, drawing amused glances from nearby diners. Saizo, feeling a mix of annoyance and relief, managed to regain his composure after the embarrassing moment. "No, no," he protested, a smirk playing on his lips. "I was just imagining how badly you might lose."
Kamanosuke's sudden change in demeanor caught Saizo off guard. The playful tone vanished from their voice, replaced by a seriousness that was rare for their interactions. Saizo looked up, meeting Kamanosuke's gaze, sensing an underlying urgency in their request.
"Promise me," Kamanosuke repeated, their voice soft yet insistent.
Saizo's momentary confusion shifted to understanding as Kamanosuke repeated their request. "Promise me," Kamanosuke urged again, their tone more serious this time. "Promise me that you will keep playing with me, and not put it off."
Saizo's momentary confusion shifted to understanding as Kamanosuke repeated their request. "Promise me," Kamanosuke urged again, their tone more serious this time. "Promise me that you will keep playing with me, and not put it off."
Saizo caught the underlying meaning behind Kamanosuke's words, a flicker of inappropriate thoughts crossing his mind at the mention of "keep playing with me." However, he quickly brushed them aside, focusing on the sincerity in Kamanosuke's eyes.
With a nod, Saizo met Kamanosuke's gaze, his expression resolute. "It's a promise," he affirmed, a sense of determination in his voice. Despite the unexpected turn of events, Saizo knew that their playful rivalry was an integral part of their relationship, one that he wouldn't easily abandon.
As the night continued to descend, Saizo and Kamanosuke enjoyed the remainder of the evening in the Great Hall, finishing up their food amidst the lively atmosphere. Saizo seemed somewhat oblivious to it, but he had an unusually great time with Kamanosuke, his mood noticeably uplifted by their banter and camaraderie.
Meanwhile, Kamanosuke couldn't help but take note of just how much they were enjoying themselves, reveling in the closeness they shared with Saizo. It was a rare moment of connection and genuine enjoyment, one that Kamanosuke savored as the night progressed.
As the night wore on and the Great Hall gradually emptied, Saizo eventually decided it was time to bid farewell. With a nod to Kamanosuke, he expressed his gratitude for the enjoyable evening, albeit without fully acknowledging just how much he had enjoyed their time together. Oblivious to the depth of the connection they had shared, Saizo made his way out of the hall, heading towards his room for the night.
Left sitting idly in the dwindling atmosphere of the Great Hall, Kamanosuke reflected on the evening's events. It dawned on them, with a sudden clarity, that they had experienced something truly special—a moment of genuine connection and camaraderie with Saizo that surpassed anything they had felt before. As the realization sank in, Kamanosuke couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over them, knowing that they had just experienced one of the best moments of their life.
As Kamanosuke sat alone in the dwindling ambiance of the Great Hall, a sense of contentment washed over them, mingled with an overwhelming feeling of confusion. They couldn't shake the notion that they had experienced something truly special with Saizo, something beyond the exhilaration of battles and fights—a connection that transcended the usual boundaries of their interactions.
This newfound feeling was different, unlike anything Kamanosuke had experienced before. It wasn't just the rush of adrenaline from battle; it was a deeper, more profound sense of fulfillment that left them feeling both elated and perplexed. It was as if they had discovered a new facet of themselves, a side that yearned for companionship and camaraderie in a way they had never realized.
As Kamanosuke continued to contemplate the unfamiliar emotions stirring within them, they couldn't help but acknowledge that this newfound connection with Saizo was different, but in a good way. It wasn't something they could easily define or categorize—it was a complex mix of emotions that defied simple explanation.
Despite their confusion, there was a sense of warmth and contentment that lingered within Kamanosuke's heart. They found themselves drawn to the memory of their evening with Saizo, replaying the moments they had shared in their mind, searching for clues to unravel the mystery of their newfound connection.
Yet, even as they reflected on the evening's events, Kamanosuke realized that they were no closer to understanding the depths of their emotions. It was as if they were standing on the precipice of something unknown, uncertain of what lay beyond but inexplicably drawn to explore it further.
As Kamanosuke stood on the second-floor veranda, lost in thought, their gaze drifted towards the main double doors of the Great Hall. Just then, they caught sight of Saizo exiting the hall, his figure illuminated by the dim torchlight flickering in the corridor.
Watching Saizo's silhouette disappear into the darkness of the corridor, Kamanosuke felt a pang of longing mixed with uncertainty. The memory of their shared evening lingered in their mind, the warmth of Saizo's presence still fresh in their thoughts.
For a moment, Kamanosuke considered following after Saizo, perhaps to seek further clarity or to simply prolong their time together. However, a sense of hesitation held them back, unsure of how to navigate the uncharted territory of their burgeoning connection.
With a sigh, Kamanosuke leaned against the railing, their gaze lingering on the spot where Saizo had vanished from view. They knew that their journey towards understanding their emotions and the nature of their bond with Saizo was only just beginning, and they resolved to embrace the uncertainty that lay ahead.
Alone in the quiet of the Great Hall, Kamanosuke sat with a smile playing on their lips, cherishing the memory of the evening and looking forward to the next time they would share such a moment with Saizo.