Chapter 1: War is coming
Chapter Text
Chapter 1 War is coming
Year 1277 Kamakura period
It has been 3 years since the invaders tried to take over Nippon. Since then the Shogunate has been on edge with the Kublai Khan. The fool sent messages and men to force the country to surrender.
Since the last envoy from Kublai Khan was ignored last year, the people of Kyushu have been on edge. News of the Mongol invaders heading to Nippon was a surprise but it sparked fear. The first time they came they rolled over Tsushima like a plague, murdering, raping, and destroying everything in their path. It was by the grace of Kami that they lost the battle on the mainland a decade prior.
Izayoi’s father, Shimazu Haruto, was there on the battlefield and saw the carnage that was left in their wake. He swore he wouldn’t let it happen again. Since that faithfully he placed a handful of hidden warriors on the islands of Iki and Tsushima as a line of defense.
Many tales have been spread from that battle but those who were truly there know the true reason the battle was won. The beast king of the West: The Inu no Taisho. The Mongols were not the only invaders that came. A horde of demons came down on the men taking the bodies of both Japanese and mongol. It was a true blood bath with Menomaru as the mastermind behind it. Though he was shown to not be a match for the mighty demon and the invading fled back to the mainland.
“War is coming”, he thought solemnly.
Present time 1281
Mongolian language
“Argh I will kill those worthless villagers for setting us a stray like this”.
“We will deal with those fools in the morning, let's head back to camp. I told you it was too dark to go into the forest” .
The forest was eerily quiet that night with only the clanking of armor and thumps of the soldiers footsteps. Foolishly unknown to the men, they were being stocked by predators waiting to strike. Two dozen eyes stare at their prey as they make their way back to their camp.
Shadows follow the fools in the bushes and through the treetops as they treat back with no shame. Tantos behind them waiting for the single to strike.
The men slowly made it back to the road leading to the Mongol camp. The men were about a mile away from the camp, the small flickering lights can be seen in the distance.
“ There’s camp let’s hurry back”
“Take them”, came a voice softly in the bush.
Two people dropped from the trees and quickly came up behind the men and cut their throats. The men didn’t even realize what happened until they felt the cold blade slicing them open. They couldn’t even make a sound as blood spurted from the wound covering the ground as they couched out the last bit of life. Their bodies were then dragged back into the forest as if they were never there.
“Stay off the road. Follow closely”, came the soft voice again. The shadows dispersed throughout the forest without a single word. Some quickly vaulted over fallen logs, others took the treetops jumping from limp to limp as they came up on the outskirts of the camp.
The camp was surrounded by log walls with three guard towers, archers posted at the top of them. The entrance of the camp had two guards posted by the large door.
“Ready for your orders”, a voice came from the shadow. “We will break up into two groups of six. One takes the left side of the camp, the other right. We need to drop the guards on the towers and at the gates before they can alert everyone. One person each will stay up at towers and help pick off the strays. If you see any prisoners, free them and have them play dead. Kill everyone but leave one soldier and the leader. We keep it clean”, came the soft voice again. “Mmm”, came the voices in unison.
The guard on the left paced at the top of the towers looking off into the dead of the night. “Arch”, came a strangled voice down below. The guard looked down to see two fellow soldiers droppings to the ground, arrows embedded in their heads. He was about to look out to see where they were fired only to feel a wet fire burning in his throat. He looked down to see an arrow logged right into his throat, blood pooling in his mouth before it went dark.
The figures quickly scaled the wall after dispatching the guards. Each member took hold of two out of the three towers, while the rest jumped down and began their assault. They hid in the shadows taking down each soldier with arrows or blades.
The leader of the camp came out of his tent with a lazy yawn, clearly not knowing his men were just slaughtered. He walked behind his tent and slowly began urinating on the grassy era. He shook himself off and was about to turn around when a blade was swiftly placed on his neck.
“My father warned me that some leaders of the invaders have learned our language. Nod your head if you can understand ”, the voice whispered in his ears. The leader held his hands up in surrender and nodded his head.
“Good, now follow me. Make any sudden movements and you won’t see sunrise”, the voice came coldly. The camp leader was ushered back into his tent where it now had four figures in it, one of them being a fellow soldier.
Both men were sitting facing each other on the ground as the figures stood behind them. The leader of the shadows took off their oni mask and head covering.
“ A woman”, came the soldier.
Standing before them was Princess Izayoi of the Fukuoka clan. The princess was the eldest child and only daughter of the late hero Fukuoka Haruto. Her face stone cold as she stared at the men. The other figures removed there masks and showed that they’re women as well.
“My father was right when thinking of preparing for your peoples return. I feared the time had finally come when fishermen had come screaming about Tsushima and Iki had been overrun again. Seeing as though you have a well established camp the tales were true. Now you will me when your people will make landfall and where”, she said walking around them.
“Your feeble country will kneel before the great Kublai Khan. It would be wise to surrender, we out man you”, the leader bit back.
“Mmmhm based on that statement I can assume you brought more men than the last invasion attempt. Seeing as Kyushu is the closest region to Iki it I would assume you would hit there first. WHERE?”, her voice stressed.
“Hmp you can not intimidate me feeble woman”, he spat back.
“That is twice now you used the word feeble. Let’s see if you think we are so feeble afterwards. Strike them”, she said. Immediately each of the other figures striked the men with their bows and sheaths. The men toppled over groaning in pain, clutching their bodies. Izayoi kneeled down in front of the camp leader.
“We will try not to strike you in the head to keep you from losing consciousness , but one of you will tell me your army's plans. We can see which one of you will say it first. Integrate that one outside the tent”, she said. Two of the other woman grabbed the soldier and balled him outside. Then began repeatedly striking him asking for the army plans. His screams could be heard inside the tent. Izayoi then punched the commander in his body causing him to scream out in agony.
“Here in our country some men relish in the art of war. Wanting to test their might and hone their skills in battle. Not only for their lord but for themselves. On the other hand, some are simple farmers forced into fighting for some petty lord, scrounging to seize land and riches. I wonder what category your comrade falls under? It doesn’t sound like he will last much longer.”, said pulling out her tanto.
“We are warriors of Kublai Khan, we are all ready to die for him”, he said in a strained voice. She motioned for the other woman to hold him down.
“And we are ready to die defending our home. Let’s see who’s resolve is stronger”, she replied. Izayoi took her tanto out and grabbed his hand. He began squirming under the hold of the women stuttering out curses as he took hold of his pinky finger. With one swift movement she sliced off his pinky, causing him to scream out at the lost digit.
“ YOU FUCKING BITCH”
“ You have nine fingers left now. Continue to test my patients and you will never be able to hold your worthless manhood again let hold a weapon. NOW WHAT ARE THE PLANS”, she shouted, slicing off another finger.
“ARGGGG there in the chest to the left. We got word that the rest of the fleet is coming from the main and will assault the shoreline within two months' time. The battle plans are marked on the map”, he bit out. Izayoi got up and checked the trunk and saw corresponding letters and the map of the land Kyushu. Her eyes widened at one of the letters.
“Bring him outside”, she said, turning back around. The commander was picked up and dragged outside of the tent. There he said his fellow comrade was beating but still breathing. Some of Izayoi’s warriors came back with a large covered basket and placed it on the ground in front of them.
“I thank you for this information. It will be put to great use, now what to do with the both of you. I can’t have both of you live for you will inform your comrades that we know of your plan”, she said looking at the two. Both the men had grave looks on their faces as the realization hit.
“Let me live, milady I can be of great use for you. I can be a prisoner and help you fight. He is nothing but a grunt worthless. He will be no use to you”, the commander shouted, groveling for his life.
“You're right you will be of great use for me”, Izayoi said, looking down at him in disgust. She unsheathed her katana and gave a quick strike at the soldier. The commander's head came clean off his soldiers and fell next to his body in a thud. The soldier next to him screamed in horror and fear he would be next. One of the women picked up his head and placed in it the basket along with some heads of his fallen comrades.
“I learned about the great cruelty your people committed here at Iki and Tsushima. They suffered greatly as your people stole everything from them. You will relay this message to the commander of the next camp you run to and have them relay this until it reaches your general. There will be nothing but fire and blood for the great warriors of Kublai Khan if they choose to invade the shore. These heads will be the only tribute you get from us. Now you best start running before the demons come smelling the blood”, she said. The soldier quickly took the basket of heads in his hands and began running out of the camp.
“Did he tell the truth my lady”, came her second in command Yuri. Izayoi turned her head eyes shining with seriousness. “Partially. The letters and map were the same as the previous camps we cleared out. Though the enemy isn’t coming to months, they will be hear in 2 weeks. We must send a letter to the shogun at once, and start preparing for the battle”, she said looking at the group.
“What about Iki my lady?”, one asked. “Sadly there isn’t much left for us to do here. The island is still under their control and it would take us too long to liberate it in time before the rest of their fleet arrives. We will avenge our country men that have fallen here. Let’s go”, she said finally. The women all nodded their heads, and signaled for the archers to come down from the towers. They took the horses from the camp and rode out of the countryside.
“Father you were right, it is not just humans that are invading the land again. I must send the signal”, Izayoi thought as she rode through the night.
Shimazu Clan Territory
Izayoi and her guards had made it back to the main two after reviving the vital information. She quickly had the villages on the shore evacuated and started raising her family's vessels. She sat in the main hall with some of the other noble families.
“My lady, are you certain of this information, can we even trust it coming from the mouth of an invader?”, questioned lord Rizo. He was closer to her fathers age and had been a loyal ally of the Fukuoka family. “Yes my lord. It checks out with the rest of the information we collected from the other campus on Iki. Though what’s more pressing is the fact they have partnered up with a demon again. We now have to prepare for the hordes' onslaught”, she conveyed. All the men's faces turned pale as she broke the news to them.
“We have sent out a party to the capital to inform the shogun about the impending invasion of the mainland. The fleet they're bringing in is twice the size of the one from a decade ago. We do have the advantage of land and resources since they are mostly to starve before we do. The problem is them marching on us. We that man power we will easily be razed”, she said looking at the map.
“The Myari family in the central region and the Nakamura of the South are making their way here with banner men. That puts us at fifty-thousand strong”, came lord Yamamoto.
“I don’t believe they will March in a unified formation like in our country. They may branch off parts of the army to hit us at different ports”, Izayoi stated. “What makes you say that my lady?”, lord Yamamoto asked. “I have seen the way they fight. It is much different from us. This isn’t a battle of skill, it's simple to conquer. They will try to overwhelm us with their numbers. Especially since our population is spread out across our country”, she stated. The men nodded their heads at her logic.
“The scouts have have tracked a small part of the army has landed in Karatsu and has taken over the castle. I will take the konoe with me to infiltrate this stronghold and bring it down quietly. We can also gain valuable information from them”, she said.
“But what do we do about the supposed demon horde”, one of the lord questions. They all murmured amongst each other with worry.
“My father before he passed told me his experience during the first invasion attempt. During that time they also faced a demon horde. He said the only thing that was able to defeat them was another demon”, she ended. The room erupted in gasps. “My lady you aren’t suggesting—-“. “Yes I am, my father left me with instructions given to him by one of the demons in ass this were to happen again”, she said seriously.
“My lady I disagree there is no way we can put our trust in a demon. For all we know this could be a trap”, one lord shouted. The others in the room nodded their heads agreeing with him.
“My father had seemed to trust this demon enough to leave me with that important message. Plus we have nothing else that can be used to fight off this horde. I will be sending the message tonight, for we have no time to waste”, she said, bowing and leaving the room.
Izayoi walked down the halI her guard yuri. “Bring two of the girls and yourself we will have the firing ceremony when the moon is high”, she whispered. “Yes my lady”, Yuri replied.
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Night time
Izayoi gathered with her warriors at the top closest hill to the Fukuoka castle. They all wore cloaks to blend into the shadows. Izayoi stood at the hill staring at the moon. “We are ready my lady”, Yuri said, holding a bow out to her. Izayoi took the bow from her hand and turned around to face the chest before her. She opened to find a simple arrow laying in it. She nocked it in her bow and held it straight at the moon.
“Father I hope this reaches whoever it’s intended”, she thought as she released the arrow. It flew straight to the sky, bursting into a large blue flame. It looked like a shooting star as it skated to the heavens. “Now we must wait”, she said one last time.
At Inukimi’s sky castle
Toga was walking through halls of the mansion when he felt a sting at his neck. He lifted his and slapped the side of his neck. Looking down, his long time retainer Myoga flattened in his hand.
“Ah Myoga you have finally returned”, he said looking slyly at the creature. The flea demon puffed backup and scrambled towards his lord.
“My lord, I bring grave news. Lord Hyōga is making ways here and has brought a demon horde ”, flea stuttered out.
“What??? That fool even after the death of his son he still hunts for power”, toga replied angrily. Suddenly a loud explosion could be heard outside. Toga quickly ran outside to see a large blue flame burning brightly in front of Kimi's chair.
She turned back to him with that same blank stare as the flames burned to a purple color. “Care to exclaim”, said smoothly. Toga looks at the burning flame and utters with gritted teeth.
“Invasion”.
Chapter 2: Meeting
Notes:
I forgot to say this in the last chapter notes but some of the events is loosely inspired on the Ghost of Tsushima game (2020). Wonderful game highly recommend it.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Chapter 2
The flames of the arrow slowly ceased as toga approached the scorched ground. He kneeled down to see the remains of the arrow he trusted to Lord Haruto. “The bastards must have already landed in our waters”, he thought.
“Myoga send word to the other demons in the land. We must be ready for the battle to come”, Toga said, turning around. “Yes my lord”, the flea said, bouncing on his hand. He locked eyes with Inukimi who still had her signature blank face. “Will Sesshomaru me joining you this time around”, she asked plainly.
Toga began walking away from her and simply said, “no the boy is still much too young for this fight”. “Mhm he won’t be happy with that but fine we will stay here in stand by”, he said with a sigh. “I must follow the scent of the arrow”, he said, jumping to the skies. He quickly morphed into his beast form gliding across the night sky.
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The Next Day
“How are our provisions yuri?”, asked Izayoi. “We just received another two carts of rice, in total it will hold us out for the rest of the year but that may change due to the coming war”, she replied. They walked towards the practice area when Izayoi happened upon her mother, younger brother and a castle maid.
“Elder sister”, her brother Suguru said, running towards her. He quickly hugged her legs, smiling up at her.
“Suguru, how many times do I have to say that is bad manners. It’s unbecoming of a future lord”, her mother chastised him. Her brother turned around and pouted at her, showing the brewing blush on his face. “It is alright mother it is only us”, she softly replied. She bent down and returned her brother's hug with enthusiasm. “Elder sister, I hear you are getting ready for battle. Please let me join”, her brother exclaimed.
Izayoi shared glances with the women around her who were shocked at his words. Her mother then came back to reality and said, “don’t be ridiculous Suguru you are much too young to fight”. “You have barely passed 10 years. Your sister shouldn’t even be going to war as a woman but your father had left us too early”, her mother finished with a disapproving face.
“I knew that was coming”, she thought. Izayoi turned her back towards her and gently cupped his face. “Mother ... .is right Suguru, you are far too young to fight now. Father had trusted me to keep us and our land safe for he knew of the dangers that lie ahead”, she purposely stressed her words. She knew all too well of her mothers disapproval of her not only taking on the mantle of family head, but also becoming a samurai in her own right.
“Now promise me to get big and strong so you can lead the next battle”, she said gently. Her brother smiled and nodded his head. “Sara take Suguru for his evening lessons. I will speak with my daughter”, her mother stated. The maid bowed and moved along with her brother. “Is it true the Mongols have returned?” she asked, looking at her daughter. She takes the time to take in her mother. Everyone said she got her beauty from her but her personality from her father. She and her mother never saw eye to eye when she was child. She wanted her to be a submissive, quiet, and obedient woman, fitting into the role a woman of her stature was meant to be. But that wasn’t Izayoi.
“Do not fret over this. It is being handled”, she simply said. Her mother then knitted her brows at her simple words. “How can I not possibly fret? You have never been in war before and the enemy most likely is bigger than ours. The Shogun may be sending soldiers but our land could be overthrown by then”, she screeched.
“And what would you rather us do then mother? Commit seppuku before the battle even begins? You and Suguru will be safe guarded away from here in case we fall. He is the future of this house and must carry on the Fukuoka name”, Izayoi fired back. “This language shouldn’t even be coming out of your mouth. You should have been married away and enjoying your children now. Not being some false general to a makeshift army your father created. You still hold on to his strange kingdoms practices”, her mother conveyed.
She shouldn’t even act like those words didn’t hurt her but she schooled her face. “Father is dead now and the only thing that is keeping us from following him is that makeshift army. Lord Rizo has sent carriers to bring you and Suguru to his castle. There you will be safe. The maids have already packed what you may need. Goodbye mother”, she said. With that Izayoi and Yuri bowed at her mother and continued her way to the barracks.
“Forgive me for asking, but are you ok my lady? I know that was…heavy”, Yuri quietly asked. Izayoi turned to her and offered her a smile and nodded. She had heard those hurtful words since her fathers untimely death. She knows her mother holds some grudge over him for passing soon, especially since he was the main enabler for Izayoi’s behavior. In times like this she wished he was still here to gain his advice.
Just then the ground shook and a large crash could be heard outside the castle. Faint screams could be heard in the distance as Izayoi and Yuri gained their bearings. “Secure my mother and brother”, she yelled. Yuri quickly took off in the direction of her family. Izayoi quickly rushed towards the crash, her hand on the shaft of her tanto.
“DEMON”, a voice yelled.
She quickly made it there where she saw a figure in a puff of smoke standing at the main entrance of the castle. Archers and their arrows were nocked and ready to fire on the figure. She pushed through the crowd to see her family’s head samurai Takemaru of Setsuna confronting the ... .man?
“Begone foul demon or face death”, Takemaru’s bodily shouted, drawing his sword. Some of the other samurai also drew their swords and pointed their spears at the demon.
“I don’t have time for your foolish games human. Where is Lord Fukuoka? I received his arrow and must speak with him”, toga said, ignoring Takemaru’s threat. “You think we jest? Men take down the beast”, he shouted back. The fellow soldiers were about to make a move when a voice came out from behind them.
“Lord Fukuoka has passed on, I am head of the house now”, shouted Izayoi’s. All heads turned to her as she emerged from the crowd. “Lady Izayoi”, Takemaru exclaimed as he turned around. She came to stand next to Takemaru who lowered his head in her presence. Now that dust settled she could clearly see the man or demon that was standing outside the gate. He was tall very, tall; almost standing a foot taller than all the men there. He had long silver white hair tied up in a ponytail. He had blue jagged facial markings, paired with honey golden eyes and painted ears. “Wow”, was the first thought that came to her mind. He was objectively handsome and judging by his attire he wasn’t just some random demon, he was a lord.
The demon's eyes shifted to her and went wide for a split second. Izayoi quickly regained her composure and held her head high in front of the demon. “Forgive us for our rudeness my lord but your arrival had clearly come as a surprise. I wasn’t expecting you to come here personally nor so quickly my lord……?”, she said formally.
“She speaks with great authority even though she is a princess. That’s not something you see everyday with human women”, he thought looking at the woman before him. He would be a blind fool to say she wasn't beautiful. She has a small heart shaped face with long black hair tied in intricate braids to offset its length. She was tall for a human let alone a human woman. He could tell by her posture she was trained in the art of the sword which was also a rare feat for a human woman. Her eyes were a unique stormy gray, another rarity among humans of this land. But what truly caught him off guard was her scent. She smelt of perfectly ripened apples and the earthiness of the forest. It was intoxicating. “I haven’t had a human pique my curiosity like this”, he thought. He knew among his kind there were those that indulged in humans in more ways than one. He’s never been around one that smelt and looked so divine.
“There is nothing to forgive. I didn’t plan to make such a rukus when landing here nor fighting your guards. You say Lord Fukuoka has passed and based on your scent I would assume you are his daughter. My apologies for your loss. And my name is Toga though others in the land call me Inu no Taisho”, he smoothly replied. For some reason hearing his voice so close set a small shiver down her spine. She could also feel the demonic energy radiating off him like heat from the sun. “Is this who came to your aid at the first battle father”, she thought.
“Again forgive my rudeness please come inside. I am Fukuoka Izayoi the late lord Fukuoka daughter and the head of this family for the time being”, she said leading the demon lord in. Around her everyone gasped at the actions of their princess. “My lady, I implore you to reconsider. This is a demon and we do not know him. He for all we know could be working with the enemy”, Takemaru urged.
“This demon is the person my father said to call if we are threatened with invasion again. As you know my father is no foolish man and I still trust his judgment now. Besides, if he was going to harm us he would have simply destroyed the castle or started attacking the minute he landed”, her answer gave no room for further discussion. With that Izayoi led toga into the compound much the wary over everyone else.
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In the war room
“Again forgive my people’s actions earlier. Everyone is on edge with the looming threat over us. It is also not everyday one comes into contact with a demon like yourself”, she said taking a seat. Toga followed suit seated a few feet in front of her. He noted she had one guard in the room and three posted outside; all were female. “I expect no less. I took no offense”, he said.
“My father told me of the battle you all were in during the first invasion and how there was a powerful demon involved”, she said seriously. “Yes, almost ten years ago a demon by the name Menomaru, and his army collaborated with the Mongols to invade our country. His plan was to devour the souls of humans that died in the chaos; growing his power. I had caught wind of it and was able to kill him before the battle reached its peak”, he conveyed. The battle was swift with only minor casualties on their side. The invaders lucky were already fatigued from being at war for so long.
“My father had placed spies on the islands of Tsushima and Iki as a first responder to any further attempts in our country. Similar to their first attempt they took over the islands swiftly and began establishing outposts. Me and my konoe have been fighting back and gaining information on our enemy”, she continued. Izayoi then signaled her guard who then laid out papers before them.
“These are the letters and maps taken from numerous Mongol camps my soldiers and I raided. They all mention a demon named Hyōga. We would have continued our retaliation on the islands but I knew this battle had gotten more complicated. This is why I contacted you”, she finished. The map was fully detailed on strategic routes for attacking the cost and moving inwards.
“The fact that they possessed such a detailed map of the cost line is both impressive and suspicious”, toga said looking at the map. “Yes I have also noticed that too”, she said with a sigh. “It also looks like they wish to hit the land at different parts. It would be foolish for them to stay on their ships, because we can all but wait for them to starve”, he concluded. Her eyes lit up at his words. “So we think the same as well”, she thought.
“I had already sent word for the humans in that part of the land to migrate southeast into the mountains. I have received news that some ships have hit Karatsu and took over the castle. For now there are only five ships in the bay. My scouts say there have been demons spotted on the outside of the castle. Me and my konoe plan to go there and break them from the inside. A siege would take too and we don’t want them to call reinforcements”, she explained. “This plan took stealth and the prideful samurai would rather die than not face an enemy head on”, she thought.
“Mhmm it is a smart plan but how do you expect to infiltrate a castle that is thought to be filled with demons. They would smell you a mile away”, he questioned. “We have our methods”, she simply replied. “Hgm there is more to this woman than she is letting on”, he smirked. “Well when do you want to leave?”, he said as he clapped his hands together.
“Pardon?”Izayoi replied, shocked. “When are we departing I assume soon since we want to get there before more of their fleet follow”, he said still smirking. Izayoi then stood up while looking at him confused. “Forgive me my lord but nowhere did I indicate I needed your help with this mission”, she stated.
“That’s strange you did send the arrow for me and here I am. Though now you say you don’t want my help with this mission”, he said, tilling his head still smirking. Something about the way he was talking and that stupid smirk was getting to her.
“Yes I did call for you here but that is to fight this Hyōga, not for these smaller missions”, she tried to explain.
“I don’t see why I can’t do both. You're fighting for your home just like I would be. We also don’t know if Hyōga is also stationed at the castle and it would be a waste for us to miss the opportunity”, he concluded. “Dammit he made a good point”, she thought. The idea of him coming along felt off for her since had created a special formation with her konoe and didn’t want it to be ruined. “I can’t complain since it’s extra muscle in case something flies wrong”, she surmised.
“Ok we leave tomorrow night. It is a day's ride on horseback and we will attack at night”, she forcibly agreed. “Will return tomorrow night then. I’ll make it come quietly”, with that Toga nodded his head and made his way out the door.
“That was not what I expected”, Izayoi thought.
Notes:
See you in the next chapter.
Chapter 3: Karatsu Castle part 1
Summary:
Izayoi, the konoe, and Toga journey to reclaim Karatsu Castle.
Chapter Text
Chapter 3
Shimazu castle (Present day Akizuki castle ruins)
After the surprise events of yesterday, everyone in the castle was busy fortifying the stronghold. Izayoi had sent her family away earlier that day ensuring their safety. Some of her samurai were sent off to the neighboring villages around Karatsu as reinforcements. She had the remaining soldiers stationed at the castle incase of a surprise attack. In front of the gates the Konoe were gearing up for their journey.
There were a total of thirty women all dressed in short black kimonos and what looked like a black skin suit underneath. They were all equipped with a samurai’s bow, tanto, and katana. Their hairs were pulled back into braids and their faces half covered by an oni mask. They all looked like Shinigami ready to reap souls.
“We will take the horses as close as possible to the castle and hide them in the forest”, Izayoi said, mounting her horse. “The demon lord has yet to come, my lady”, Yuri said. Just then horses became startled, surprising the women. At that moment the Inu no Taisho emerged from the forest as quiet as a ghost.
“Right on time it seems”, he smirked, not breaking eye contact with Izayoi. She was half surprised he was here but then again he didn’t seem like he would go against his word. She also noticed this time he had a sword hanging off his back. “Assume you know not to slow us down my lord”, she grimaced, pushing forward on her horse.
“Oh you mustn’t worry about me. I’ll try to keep up”, he said following the women. “Hmph”, she said, turning her head.
Iimori Village halfway to Karatsu castle
The group had stopped in Iimori to rest before moving out again. The village was large as it was one of the more wealthy places within Fukuoka territory. The Chozo family ruled over the region and were one the vessels under Izayoi’s family. They gained wealth as merchants due to them being close to the sea. They also had Mt. Iimori, and Hinata which gives them environmental protection. It was an important strategic spot for military advancement.
The Chozo were housing the women in secret to prevent villagers from knowing what was happening. Many people have flocked to this region after word of raids happened around the coast line. It was mid-day when the group was getting ready to leave again when Izayoi felt a sting to her neck.
“Ow”, Izayoi said as she smacked her hand against her neck. She looked down at her hand and found lil Myoga squashed on her hand. “A flea?”, she whispered puzzled. “I’m surprised to see you here Myoga”, toga said behind her, causing Izayoi to jump. She turned her head swiftly in his direction to glare at him for giving her a fright. He held his hand up in surrender, chuckling. “Forgive me I thought you heard me approach, though would you mind releasing my retainer you're squeezing him to death”, he said point at her hand. Izayoi slowly unclenched her hand to find the flea flattened out.
“Oh forgive me little demon”, she said. The flea popped up and his eyes somehow went wider as he saw the princess. “Oh it’s no problem. A flea could only wish to be squashed by a beautiful woman as yourself”, the flea swooned. Izayoi smiled at his kind words. “Ahm, do you have a message to relay to me Myoga”, Toga said with a deadpan face.
“Oh yes my lord, I bring word of the enemy moving into the land. Some of the human villages have been razed with the demons quickly devouring them. The Mongols have also taken them over as camps to further their invasion. The villages surrounding the castle are all under Mongol control now”, he said bouncing around.
Both Toga and Izayoi brows furrowed as he relayed the news to them. “They're moving a lot faster than I had anticipated. We must move quickly”, she said, jumping on her horse. “I will handle the demons in the area but we must take out those villages to prevent them from being alerted of us”, toga said, turning towards her. Izayoi nodded her head and quickly rounded up her garrison.
“Everyone, there has been a change of plans. On our journey to Karatsu castle we must take out the enemy camps that have taken over. We can not let them get control of the land. Move out”, she bellowed. With that everyone raced on to the road.
Nightfall (Mongol territory)
Izayoi, the Konoe and toga all rode into the night following the coastline until they ended up in Mongol territory. They have fully captured the bay and have been patrolling some of the coast line. It was quiet for sometime until they started reaching villages burnt to the ground along with their country men. “I will avenge you. I swear!”,Izayoi thought as they passed the bodies.
They continued to ride until they came upon a village except the Mongols were still there. They dismounted their horses and led them into the nearby forest to hide them. They could see the dead bodies of the villagers that once lived there littered across the ground. “Monsters," Yuri whispered. “I can smell some demons among them deeper into the village”, came toga. “Konoe, eat”, and with the command the women pulled out flower petals from within their clothing and consumed them. One by one toga can hear their heart beats dropping and their scents becoming faint.
“So this is what she meant”, he said, staring at her wide eyed. “Like before, take out the guards on the outer perimeter and take the archer towers. Stay hidden from the demons but take any out if you have the chance. Kill them all”, she commanded. She then looked at the toga afterwards. “I will take on the demons to draw them away from the mongols. They can probably sense me already. This will give you a chance to kill them without issue”, he said take off into the sky. The women stealthily stacked into the camp take out the first guards on the perimeter.
They climbed on top of the roofs to see some of the men walking around the camp. Just then a loud bang happened at the ground shook as she looked to her left to see toga engaging with seven demons. She could see some of the Mongols pulling their weapons on from the fright. Izayoi took her bow out and started picking off soldier by soldier. She could see her Konoe slash through the enemies who were completely caught off guard. Just then she felt an arrow whoosh past her face. She quickly ducked and looked down to see a few archers aiming at her. She rolled off the roof and landed on the ground expertly dodging the arrows. She hid behind one the homes and unsheathed her sword. She sneaked around to the other side of the building moving out of their vision.
Izayoi pulled two little pellets out of her bag and threw it at the ground. Smoke covered the area as the men began coughing.
“ What was that?”
“ Where did they go?”
As they continued to stumble, Izayoi came up and slashed each man before they could register what happened.
“AAARRRRRHHH”, came a voice above her. She looked up to see a demon fall right in front of her, cut clean in half. She saw toga descend to the ground with his sword in hand. “The demons have been taken care of and the humans are dead”, he said, sheathing the long sword. The rest of the Konoe came out the shadows having cleared out the came. Yuri came up to her after searching the grounds.
“No escaped my lady and there were no patrols either. We didn’t find any battle plans in the leader's tent”, she said. “Mhmm this must have just been a new post. Have you found any survivors?”, she said. Yuri shook her no and looked down. “Dammit! We must continue to the castle once we take it. We will send men here and give these people a proper burial”, she said walking away. “Interesting woman indeed”, toga thought. The women bowed as they headed back to the forest to retrieve the horses.
At Karatsu Castle a few hours later
It was till nightfall as soldiers opened the gate for their returning comrades. The castle was taken over by the Mongols and demons a few days ago, killing the lord that resided there. They spared some of the samurai and humans that worked in the castle to gain information and for food.
The warlord Dogar of the Mongol army took charge in the siege of the castle. Lord Kazuha wasn't prepared for the onslaught that was thrusted upon him. He knew death was coming for him so he committed seppuku, along with his family. And there goes the end of the Karatsu clan. To laugh at him even in death the warlord cut off his family heads and placed them on the walls of the castle.
(Mongol Language)
(Mixed Chinese and Korean Language)
The enemy has established the castle as a home base for their land invasion. They also took over the bay giving them easy access to the sea.The Mongols then sought out to continue their terror into the countryside. A few villages have already been destroyed.
“We have taken another village chief. We have brought back food and some of the women”, said one of the grunts
“Good throw them in prison. We will have use of them later”, the chief smirked.
Just then one of the demon generals of Hyuga's army landed in the courtyard of the castle. It was a moth demon by the name Gatenmaru. He was dressed in long embroidered robes fitting for a general. He dwarfed the size of the warlord as he came to stand in front of him.
“Are you enjoying the castle?”he purred.
“Yes, the castle is a perfect strategic point for our cause”, came Dogar quietly. Like many of the humans the Warlord was wary of teaming up with demons especially those as creep as this one.
“Good and I hope you kept your part of the deal”, he said flexing his claws.
“Yes we have brought the women. They are being kept in the prison holdings”, he replied.
“I would hate to use you as payment, men don’t taste as good as the women”, he said menacingly.
Just then a loud explosion can be heard at the outer gate. The ground shook around them from the aftershock. A soldier came staggering towards with blood over his face and an arrow in chest.
“ Dogar the en-enemy is here ”, he said, collapsing on the ground dead. He soon true his sword as charged toward the battle.
“Finally some action”, said Gatenmaru, licking his lips. He unleashed his wigs and took to the sky.
Chapter 4: Karatsu Castle part 2
Summary:
The battle continues at the Karatsu Castle.
Notes:
Sorry the delay in this chapter I was recovering from surgery. But I'm back now.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Chapter 4
Karatsu Castle part 2
The Konoe finally reached the fortress, cutting down enemies as they went. They stood within the trees watching the men bring in food and other goods they took from the villages they raided. Izayoi’s eyes scanned over the line but stopped when she saw them. There were women and some girls chained together being ushered through the gates. They all looked terrified as they were covered head to toe in blood and dirt.
“Those bastards”, gritted yuri. All the girls grimaced at the scene, hands on the hilt of their swords. “Calm yourselves, we mustn't act irrationally now that we know they have civilians”, Izayoi said calmly. Even with the calm authority she spoke you can sense the rage that was in her voice. Toga watched the whole interaction with a clenched fist, his claws puncturing his palms. He could smell the faint scent of a moth demon in the area. That's when an idea then came to his head.
“My lady, I sense another demon approaching the fortress, and he smells of miasma”, toga said, coming to stand before her.
“What do you suggest my lord?”, he asked. Toga then smirked looking at the front gate.
“I will attack at the front again and you all enter through the shadows while they're distracted. We must secure the human women and get them to safety”, he said.
“What about the demon with the miasma ability”, she questioned.
“Don’t worry he’s nothing but small fry”, he said, taking off to the sky.
As toga climbed higher and higher into the sky he let his yoki flare around him. The demonic energy crackled as his face began to morph into his dog form. A soft light took over his body as his demonic energy grew. He tore out of the light with a bone chilling roar. His blood red eyes honing in on the front gates as he descended on top of them.
Izayoi stood in shock and amazement at his raw power. “Wow so that is what it means to be a demon lord”, she thought. She bristled out of her daydreaming and rushed her troops towards the castle as well.
“Quickly girls”, she said, climbing the walls.
Toga landed at gates with a loud crash sending men and rubble in the sky. The inhabitants were confused at the surprise attack having felt the shockwave through the castle grounds.
Dust and rubble flew everywhere as the front of the castle walls crumbled at the force of the ground. An overwhelming flare of Toga’s demon power surged through the area like a plague. Lesser demons began rushing towards the dust cloud with pathetic battle cries.
Toga flexed his claws and hacked through them like they were nothing.
“BLOOD GIVE ME BLOOD”.
“Stupid sword”
The sōunga on toga’s back screamed at him to let him free to rain hell. In-truth the sōunga could make quick work of these ingrates but the destructive power was hard to control and would have also killed the human captives.
“GRRRHHHHAAA”
Toga quickly dodged the attack that came above him. The slashes instead sliced the human trying to rush him from behind. Gatenmaru stood back up, licking the blood of his claws.
“Geh men still taste as tainted as ever”, he said smirking at toga.
“Men quickly to the fro-“, I voiced stopped as an arrow was logged into their throat.
The Konoe launched their attack on their foes. Sending barging of arrows off as the men tried to get their footing the battle.
“Natsu get the towers”, Izayoi ordered as she slashed through a foe.
The castle had more enemies than they had predicted but they have to reclaim it to prevent more enemies from entering the land. Izayoi’s mind quickly flashed back to the countless bodies of villagers they passed to get her.
“We will avenge you I swear”, she said, firing an arrow into an enemy.
“ Kill them”
The Konoe scattered as reinforcement poured out from the castle. Izayoi quickly scaled the wall to gain higher ground and nestled on the roof of one of the building's rooms. She threw her smoke screens into the yard to blind the men.
“ -Cough where are they cough”
“Don’t lose focus men”
“Dont-“
The voices began dropping as she fired poison darts at them through the smoke. Like the tips of their arrows and swords, the darts are soaked in poison to ensure a painful and agonizing death to its targets.
“ Found you bitch!!”
Izayoi drew her sword as some of the men climbed on top of the roof. They charged at her with their flaming shields and swords though she wasn’t threatened at all. She quickly drew her blowgun and fired a dart at one of the men hitting him in the eye. He went down screaming as she dodged the attacks of the other two.
She crouched and swiped the legs of the men, having him fall off the roof hitting the ground. She quickly stood up and blocked the attack from the last soldier. He started aiming powerful swings at her which she easily dodged. She broke from his pressure and back flipped out of the way. He charged again but she pared the move catching him off balance. She saw an opening and swiftly swung her sword down on his arm, cutting it off. He started screaming in agony at the lost limb but she silenced him by plunging the blade into his side.
She saw the last soldier whom she kicked off the roof
Slowly try to get off the ground. She then jumped off the roof, sword in hand and buried it deep in his back running him straight through. The man couldn’t even make a sound as she pulled the blade out of his body.
She then ran towards the main structure of the castle in hopes of finding the captive women. She mowed down more lackeys until she made it to the makeshift dungeon. There saw the women and girls huddled together in fear of any would-be attackers.
“It’s ok, we have come to take back the castle and rescue you. I'm lady Izayoi of the Fukuoka clan”, she said, trying to calm the women.
“My lady behind you”
Izayoi dodged the halbert in time as it came crashing down on the ground. The ground sizzled from the acid attack. She back flipped out the way to see who her attacker was.
“Hehehe lucky me to find another beautiful snack down here”
Gatenmaru came out of the shadows with a sinister smile on his face.
“Iron Reaver Soul stealer”, bellowed toga as he drove his claws into the moth demon.
“ARGHHHH”
Gatenmaru screeched as his body hit the ground with a thud.
“Something isn’t right”, thought toga. There wasn’t any blood on his claws or in the wound he left in his chest. Just then Gatenmaru’s forehead glowed and he stood back up like nothing happened. A nasty smirk was plastered on the demon's face.
“Nice try dog but that won’t work”
Toga sniffed the air and narrowed his eyes. “He doesn’t smell like graveyard soil. Either he is a puppet or this isn’t his real body”, toga thought.
The moth demon then lunged for toga spraying him with his poisonous silk. Toga tried to evade but was trapped in the cocoon.
“Hehehe the women and now the great dog demon as my meal. The master will be pleased with me”, Gatenmaru smirked.
“HAHAHA”, the demon laughed menacingly as he relentlessly swung his halbert at the princess.
Izayoi can’t find a window to counter his attacks as he barred down on her. She felt her back hit the cold stone, as she was backed into a corner.
“I HAVE YOU NOW”.
He charged at her hoping to pierce her with his weapon. Izayoi narrowly moved out his way as his halbert pierced the wall, his acid corroding it. She took that opening and fired off her own poison darts at him, hitting in his sides.
“HAHAHAHA foolish human your feeble attempts to retaliate won’t work. This poison is child’s play”, he mocked.
“I could unleash my strength but not with the women so close. I’ll just have to bait him”, she thought.
“Feh feeble you say? Then how come you have yet to strike me. Maybe it is you who is foolish”, she smirked. She then quickly booked down the hall, running towards the entrance of the main building.
“Grrr noisey wench”
He sprinted after leaving the women behind. Izayoi made it outside just in time as the moth demon swung another attack at her. She effortlessly dodged backfilling out of the way.
“If you wanted to meet your cowardly end, you should have said so”, he laughed.
Izayoi paid the insult no mind as she sheathed her sword. She closed her eyes and focused her energy. Her fist felt warm and she could feel the power surging in her.
“HAHAHA WHAT NOW DONT CRY LITTLE WENCH I WILL MAKE A FINE MEAL OUT OF YOU HAHAHAHHAHA”, he continued to mock.
Just then her eyes shot open as she lunged toward him reeling her fist back. The fool didn’t even have time to react has her fist contacted with his face hurling him back into the stone walls with great force. The ground and air shock from the magnitude, shocking some onlookers.
She landed back on the ground softly but at attention because she knew he wasn’t dead yet. The demon shackling pulled himself out of the rubble with blood pooling out his mouth and nose. He was in complete disbelief in what just happened.
“Wa-wa-WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT”, he screamed.
“Mmhm I guess my feeble attempts have landed”.
The demon jumped into the air and aimed his halbert at her, charging up an attack.
“DISGUSTING WENCH WHO DO YOU TAKE ME FOR! I AM GATENMARU OF THE TEN FOLD YOU ARE NOTHING BUT A WEAK HUMAN WOMAN. YOU ARE NOTHING BUT FOOD!”
The demon sent a large blast aiming at the princess, but she quickly jumped out of the way with superhuman speed. As the dust cleared she stood up from her crouching position smirking at him. The wretched demon above seethed with disbelief.
“Impossible how could a mere human move like that”, he thought.
Izayoi then leaped in the air, her blade turning crimson red as flames engulfed it and screamed, “Hell’s fury”. She swung the sword shooting out a massive wave of scorching flames at the demon. The night lit up as if the sun had fallen on top of them.
“Argg”, screamed the demon as he was barely able to maneuver out of the attack's way. Part of his right wig was burned making him scream out in agony. The demon descended to the ground panting from his wounds. Izayoi landed a few yards away unscathed from the battle.
“How can a mere mortal manage to wound me let alone scratch me. It has to be that blade she welds. I must knock it out of her hand”, he thought. Gatenmaru quickly got to his feet and charged at izayoi. His attacks were fierce, his halbert clashing against her sword with amazing force. But yet izayoi stood strong, defending herself against him.
She blocked another strike, countering it with her sword living an opening. She then brought her leg up and thrust it deep into his gut. This made him stumble and nearly topple over. She then brought her sword down to cut off his head but then moved out the way as body hurled their direction.
When the dust cleared she could see that the body was also another Gatenmaru, laying in the ground. Toga then landed a few yards away from her staring at the Gatenmaru she was just fighting.
“So this is where the main body was hiding”.
The body then merged back into the assumed main Gatenmaru. The air felt prickly as the demon's power grew. He got back up on his feet holding his stomach and stared menacingly at Izayoi.
“A woman! I will devour you whole”, Gatenmaru bellowed.
He then morphed into his true form, a large grizzly moth demon. His wigs blocked out the moonlight as he stared down at them. He drew up his wings and started flapping them, releasing a glittery miasma in the air. The dead bodies and some of the Mongols that were still alive started cording due to the miasma.
Izayoi turned towards her Konoe as they finished off the mongols and screamed, “Scatter now!”
The women followed the other striking down foes as they took to the castle walls.
“My lady watch out”, yuri yelled, pushing off one of the soldiers.
Before Izayoi could react the demon Gatenmaru shot poison silk away out of his mouth, aiming directly at her.
Toga quickly shielded her with his back, the poison burning him on his pelt. “Arg”,came toga but he quickly picked her up and out of the way. They landed a few yards away from the large moth demon.
“My lord I do not need saving”, she said, getting back into a defensive stance.
“Yea yea thank me later”.Toga noticed the poison had no effect on her.
Gatenmaru flew in their direction again spitting out poison at them, but was easily deflected by toga. He then flew back up into the sky dodging a fire attack from Izayoi.
“I knew the minute I saw you, you were not an ordinary human”, toga chuckled.
“It would be wise to remember that my lord”, she said, smirking at him.
“I have an idea to take this fool down once and for all”, he said, glancing back at her. Izayoi knitted her brows but then nodded her towards him.
“I will fly up and weaken him. Use your flame attack to incinerate him”.
“I'm surprised you didn't want to take him down yourself demon lord”.
“I could destroy this fool with my eyes closed, but I won't since your women are close and the captives are still here”, he said simply. Izayoi then turned toward him, shocked at his answer.
“Showing care towards humans? You're the strangest demon I have ever met”.
“And here I thought I was your one and only? Who must I fight for your favor”, he smirked at her, his voice having light air around almost as if he was flirting with her.
Izayoi quickly turned her head to hide the sudden blush that came onto her face. “What is wrong with me? This is no time for this, focus on the battle at hand Izayoi”, he yelled in her head.
“BHAHAHAHAHA whispering down there won't save you from me. After I devour that woman your next Dog”.
“Time to shut this fool up”, toga thought. He then leaped into the air drawing up his claws taking a swipe at the demon. The moth barely dodged as the demon released a sudden burst of demon energy.
“Feh your not even worth drawing my sword for scum”, he said. Toga brought up his left and slashed at the moth, sending him flying towards the ground.
“Now!”
Izayoi drew her blade up to her, focusing her energy. Blue flames emerged from the blade, burning away the miasma around her. She slashed the air singing, “Supernova” engulfing the demon and blue flames.
“NOOOOOOOO”, Gatenmaru was completely incinerated leaving nothing behind as the flames took over him.
Her flames also burned away the miasma out the air as the dust settled. Toga landed back on the ground looking at her. Izayoi then turned toward the Konoe holding her sword up in the air.
“WE HAVE RECLAIMED THE CASTLE. VICTORY IS OURS”
The women screamed with her as they also raised their weapons in triumph.
“Not ordinary at all”, Toga thought with an impressed smile.
Notes:
Thanks see you in the next chapter.
Chapter 5: Karatsu Castle part 3
Summary:
The battle as finished and the castle was reclaimed by their party. In the aftermath Izayoi pulls toga aside to assess his injuries much to his dismay.
Notes:
I am still working the chapters of my other works and this one was ready so I decided to drop it. I might come back in and make some tweaks but I have been trying to flesh out my writing more.
Thx
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Chapter 5
Karatsu Castle part 3
After the battle had been won, Izayoi and the rest of the Konoe seized the three mongol ships in the bay. They were practically empty since the majority of the soldiers were on shore. Another victory for them.
The castle luckily wasn’t too damaged in the battle and was to be their refuge tonight. The bodies of Lord Kazuha and his family were retrieved, including their heads. There is to be a burial for them in the morning.
The surviving villagers settled in the castle, trying to calm themselves of the frightening night. Izayoi had the Konoe station at the perimeter to watch for any spies of retaliation. Instead of being in the castle she opted to stay in one of the tented Mongol camps at the gates of the castle, much to the disapproval of his warriors.
As she settled in she noticed lord Toga sitting underneath one of the trees with his leg propped up. She approached him quietly, but with conviction.
“If it wasn’t for my great senses you might have snuck up on me”, he said with his eyes closed.
“I would like to speak with you privately my lord”, she said looking down at him. “Very well”, he said as he got up and followed her into her tent. She dismissed the Konoe station outside her tent.
“Remove your clothes and sit down”, Izayoi said, turning to him.
“Oh I didn't think human princesses were so bold”, he smirked. Izayo's expression did not change with his joke.
“Don't be coe my lord, you were hit with the demon's poison when you shielded me. Let me take a look at it”.
“I would think you would be more injured than me since you consumed so much miasma”.
“.......”
“I am fine, this is but a scratch”, toga replied.
“I said sit down”, she said more forcefully, giving him a hard stare. Toga held his hands up in surrender and began undressing. He removed his sword and pelt first, then pulled down his haori until it bunched at his waist. Izayoi turned from him, picking up a small chest and walked back over to the bed.
“Never had to undress in front of a woman for this reason”, he chuckled. Izayoi ignored him and pulled out a mortar, grabbed a water vase to begin crushing medicinal herbs into it. The smell of the medicinal herbs hit Toga’s nose as she mashed them together, steadily adding water.
Being so close to her, Toga can truly take in her scent. Even after their battle she still smells like fresh earth, and ripened apples. He felt her move his long hair, still fastened in a ponytail, to his left shoulder.
“Why did you shield me from that demon's attack”, she asked, eyes focused on her work. Her question caught him off guard but he quickly composed himself and answered.
“He was going to kill you. You would have melted away if so much of that poison hit you”. She then looked up at him silently. Her eyes were unwavering. She made him turn his back towards her as she examined the injury. His skin was a mixture of red and purple but wasn’t fully corroded.
“Part of me might have but I would have been fine”, she replied. This made him curious even more. Izayoi continued examining him and saw the infliction of the poison.
“The skin isn’t too damaged, the ointment will help with the healing”.
“Feh I told you. I have faced far greater foes than that fool. My son’s poison burns more”. Her eyes grew wide at that revelation, her hands stilling for a second.
“You have a child?”
“Yes, he is quite young by demon standards but would be considered a great-ancestor to humans”, he chuckled. She dampened one of the clean cloths and began softly whipping the drive blood off his shoulder.
“Forgive my shock I should know you have a child. Most lords do by a passing moon phase”, she said. She tried to focus on her task again.
“The boy must be fuming knowing she can’t be a part of this battle”, he said. That made her think of her own brother. “He is already starting to look like father”, she thought, smiling softly.
“I would guess your wife must have forbidden him from joining you”, she said, applying the ointment on his skin. She was surprised at how warm and smooth it was. It surprised her to see not a single scar or scratch on his golden skin. She could feel his shoulder muscles ripple underneath her fingertips.
“I forbade him, the boy is too young and would do something reckless. Funny enough I would have thought she would be more forceful in him joining me”, he chuckled. Izayoi was surprised to hear such a thought. “Mother would rather die than willingly push me or my brother towards battle”, she thought.
Izayoi layered more ointment to his skin massaging it in. Toga shuddered as her hands moved gently over the afflicted area. Her small hands felt amazing as they ghosted across his shoulder. “Also she isn’t my wife”, he said, closing his eyes.
“I’m sorry”, she said in confusion.
“You called her my wife earlier. Sesshomaru’s mother isn’t my wife”, he said simply.
“Oh forgive me I meant no disrespect to her….. station”, she said, assuming she was his concubine instead. This caused toga to lead a boisterous laugh. All Izayoi could do was stare at him in confusion.
“It’s been awhile since anyone has made me laugh that hard. Be glad she wasn't here to hear you say that. She would have cut off your head”, he said, turning towards her. Her hand stilled at his words, as her eyes shot towards him.
“And now I’m offended sir”, she said. Her eyes blazed with agitation but her face lit up with embarrassment.
Toga continued to wave her off. “She isn’t someone to worry about at all. She isn’t my wife nor concubine. She is simply the mother of my child. We chose each other based on strength and convenience, nothing more”. He had a soft smile on his face as he looked at her.
“You chose each other?”, she said as her shoulders deflated but the blush on her cheeks remained. He nodded his head.
“Yes. She came from a powerful lineage and I am a lord. I needed to sire a child to hold my position and she was willing to produce one. We have respect but no love for each other”, he said in a matter-of- fact voice. His posture was relaxed and nonchalant, showing the simplicity of his words.
“But what of your son? Wouldn’t that affect his legitimacy as your heir?” Izayoi said as she reached for bandages. She moved to his right side as he was still facing her. She then slowly began wrapping them around his shoulders and chest area.
“On the contrary it makes him more sought after in the demon world”. Toga could hear her heartbeat change rhythm at the revelations of his words. “Don’t judge us demons too harshly my lady. I love my son dearly. I would die for him and his mother but I do not love her. It’s quite similar to how you humans make alliances or join houses except demons to not marry”, he stated. Somehow every word that came from his mouth continued to shock her.
“You don’t?”, she said, finishing tying his bandages. She stepped away from him to let him get dressed.
“Some demons do it, but marriage is a human custom”, he continued slipping back on his inner shirt and haori.
“That is quite shocking to know. Then do your kind not show romantic interest in one another?”
“Yes we can express romantic love. Especially with our mates, but most don't seek out such lasting companionship. It at times can be viewed as a weakness that your enemies will exploit”.
Again she could help but think back to her mother. The constant shame she could feel radiating off her when she gazed upon izayoi. The excessive push for her to marry. It was stifling. “Freedom to choose huh. Demons truly are different from us”, she thought.
“When you say mating, do you mean in the ways of the bedchamber or like with animals?” Toga raised a curious eyebrow at her boldness. “Never had anyone let alone a human ask me such questions' ', he thought smirking. Izyaoi’s eyes widened as it dawned on her to ask such a question. she stuttered out an apology.
“F-f-f-forgive me for asking such a question my lord. It was inappropriate”, she said, shielding her red face. “What is wrong with me?”she screamed in her head. She would have died from embarrassment right then as she heard him let out a deep chuckle.
“My I have lost count in the amount of times you have surprised me my lady. And to answer your question, l it’s more complicated than that”, toga chuckled at her embarrassed face. “That is twice tonight you have shown me such a cute expression”, he thought. Her face slowly turned to him, still red with embarrassment.
“How so?” Toga smiled slightly at her innocent question.
“There are many factors that go into it. Some demons choose a mate based on romantic feelings, others it has to deal with scent or other biological factors”, he said walking slowly towards her.
“Scent?”, she said, perplexed as her pulse quickened as he stalked towards her. There was a slight spike in her scent that he caught a whiff of. This caused him to smirk slightly.“Yes my lady it runs deeper for canine demons like myself. You would be surprised how much we demons can learn from a brief smell”. He then grabbed her hand and brought the back of it to his lips, giving it a feather-like kiss.
Izayoi’s heart was thumping in her chest at the jester. Her scent engulfed the room with its sweet aroma. All she could do was suck in a sharp breath at his sudden action. He then brought her hand down and leaned forward towards her left ear.
“You should rest my lady, we still have many battles ahead of us. I thank you for caring for my wound”, he whispered in her ear. She felt a gust of wind; opening her eyes and seeing that we were gone.
Izayoi brought the hand he kissed up to her heart, feeling it rapidly beat against her chest.”And what in the gods what was that?”, she thought. She stood there for a minute trying to compose herself when she heard a voice call to her outside the tent.
“My lady, if you wish there is a hot spring near the castle, you may bathe there”, came Yuri's voice.
“Yes thank you yuri. A bath would be nice”, she replied, trying to hide any traces of embarrassment in her voice. Izayoi sighed as she left the tent.
Notes:
I hope you all like this chapter, I wanted to start establishing their relationship while also building some understanding.
See you in the next chapter. Thx ;D
Chapter Text
Chapter 6
Izayoi slowly slipped into the water, letting the warm vapor envelope her as her back rested against the stone. “Aaaahhh”, she sighed, finally having a moment to relax since the beginning of her journey.
She untied her onyx hair and gently combed it through the water. She used a bowl she brought with her to gather some of the liquid. Then she grabbed a bottle of scented oil and poured some of it into the bowl. Mixing the context until it gave off the aroma she wanted, Izayoi then began scrubbing off the dirt, sweat and dried blood on her skin. While doing so she couldn’t help but think about the demon lord, who as of late she finds herself thinking about more and more.
“He somehow looked as pristine as the day I first saw him. Would have never thought he was in a battle not too long ago”, she whispered to herself.
“Tuh mother would be shocked to know I have been thinking of a man”, she said out loud.
An old memory flashed into her mind. “In the future you will be in charge of your husband’s desire, Izayoi. You must fulfill your wifely duties to ensure his happiness”, her mother said, leading her through the gardens. Turning towards her mother, Izayoi innocently responded, “but what of my own desires and happiness mother? What if I don’t find him attractive?”. Her mother scuffed at her questions as if they were ridiculous. “Your husband’s happiness will be your own child, it’s best to remember that”.
She shook her head and sighed at her thoughts. “I shouldn’t be thinking of such “distractions”, she thought. She looked down at her hands, clenching and unclenching them. Something about Lord Toga feels different though.
Even with the small teasing he displayed earlier, he conversed with her with respect. Most men disregard women and talk “at” them rather to them regardless of their station. She knew the lords were not too pleased to take orders from her because of her gender and openly count the days for when her brother comes of age.They probably would have written her off the minute her father died if it wasn’t for her showing her capabilities.
He talked to her with such gentleness and unbiased fervor that she found herself shocked multiple times during their conversation. “Father, ever so secretive, never mentioned Lord Toga by name but he stated his trust in him. So by default I will trust him as well”, she thought, closing her eyes.
“You should rest my lady, we still have many battles ahead of us. I thank you for caring for my wound”. She shuddered at the memory, still feeling his soft breath on her ears.
A blush erupted on her face as his upper body flashed in her mind. She hated to admit it but while she was attending him she took glances at his body and face. His body was flawless with now traces of battle scars or other discoloration. She chucked that to him being a demon and having a healing factor as well. He was devilishly handsome, she also chucked that up to him being a demon.
She could feel her body tingling as she pictured his body infront her now. His muscles rippled at every move he made, skin warm and surprisingly soft. She’s seen men shirtless before when she would sneak away from her lessons to see her fathers men practice in their dojo. Their bodies were impressive, yes, but they couldn’t compare to lord Toga’s.
He was also larger than any man she has ever seen. His chest and back were broad, which taunt abs and arms to match. She could still feel them when he shielded her. His long legs felt powerful under his hakama’s, she wondered if his member was larger as well. She could feel her nether region to pulse as her lust grew.
In contrast to popular thought women do hunger for sexual gratification, and Izayoi was no different. Since she began her courses, she was taught the ways of the bedroom in preparation of being married off. As a princess she learned six out of the twenty positions. Any more than that were for the girls in the brothels. She learned how to “ready” herself for her husband and to satisfy him with her hands and mouth.
The only good thing that came out of it was she learned the art of self pleasure. In the dead of night ,when her maids think she has gone to bed. Izayoi would lay on her back and part her sleeping kimono open and touch herself. She would imagine her hands belonging to someone else, preferably a strong but gentle man. He would take his time with her, leaving kisses across her body. His fingers would magically change into his member and he would thrust into her until she felt ecstasy. After coming down her high she would dream about this man and wonder if he was real.
Izayoi moved her right hand between her legs and started stroking her lips. She closed her eyes and began imagining her fantasy man. Her left hand traveled to her right breast as she dipped a finger inside. The man started kissing her neck and ear as his fingers replaced her own. His mouth moved to her breasts and sucked on them, whirling his tongue around her nipple. The pace of his fingers quickened as she drew in shallow unsteady breaths. She felt her lower abdomen clench deeply as she felt a wave of euphoria wash over her.
She let out a deep breathy moan as she came down from her high. She could feel the fingers exit her body as her eyes refocused. The man’s face soon became clearer as she stared into his bright amber eyes.
Izayoi gasped as she shot out the water. She stood there staring across the water as she tried to steady her breath. She sat back down against the rocks still shook at what she imagined. She threw water on her face as if to snap her out of the trippy dream.
“So much for not getting distracted”, she sighed leaning back.
In the tent
After her bath Izayoi settled back into her tent readying herself to get some much needed rest.
Dream Sequence
“Father, you promised to teach me”, a young Izayoi winned. She stood under her favorite cherry blossom tree from her childhood. The petals flickered in the wind as she stood in the shade, wooden sword in hand.
“Easy now my little flower. First show me your stance”, her father chuckled. Izayoi adjusted her footing, standing shoulder lengths apart core tight.
“Yes yes now brace”, her father came at her with an upper slash, turning the blade up and stepping forward. Izayoi stood her ground blocking the attack and moving to the side to strike. Her father countered her move pushing her to the side. She nearly lost balance but got right back into position.
“Good, always keep your eye on your opponent. Track their movements and counter their strikes”, he said relaxing.
“Father what about the fire dance move”, she continued, relaxing her stance as well.
“In due time, child, remember trust and patience always yields the best crops”, he said, tapping her with the back of the sword.
She smiled widely at her father as they both sat at the base of the tree. The cherry blossom filtered in the wind, filling the air with a sweet scent.
“Izayoi, I must leave now”, father said.
Stunned, the princess looked to him as he got up and began walking away. “FATHER WAIT DON’T LEAVE ME”, she screamed.
“You’ll take it from here”.
“Father, father, FATHER”! The princess tried to grasp him but he was already.
She looked down at her hand and all she saw was blood. She quickly looked up and saw the area littered with bodies, the ground soaked in blood. The cherry blossoms were soaked red as crows picked at the bodies.
“NO NO NO NOOOOOOOOO”, she screamed.
The princess jolted out of bed, looking down at her hands frantically searching for the invisible blood. She could feel sweat coming down her brow from her nightmare. Her heart was leaping out of her chest from the sudden rush of adrenaline.
“I need fresh air”, she said, still panting. She walked out of the tent startling her guards. She waved them off as they tried to give her assistance.
“I’m alright, I'll be just a few years away”.
The princess walked towards the forest venturing in them until reached an open field. She knew that being in such an open space wasn’t a good idea but she needed to clear her mind of her nightmare. She sat in the grass looking at this moon until she heard a howl in the distance.
“What?”, she whispered hand at her weapon until saw the creature. A giant dog demon stood there proud howling at the moon. Its mane danced in the soft night breeze, its coat reflecting the moon light. The demonic energy it gave off was hair raising but yet calming. It was beautiful.
“Lord-Toga?”, she softly whispered. The beast turned to her as if it heard his name. Large red eyes stared deep into her soul in trapping her. They both stood there in the trance until lord toga broke contact by transforming. His whole body was engulfed in a soft light, as he shifted to his humanoid form. With a blink the light vanished and he appeared in front of her nearly making her lose her balance.
“Are you alright My lady”,he said smoothly.
“Uh yes my lord I just needed some air. The tent was stuffy”, she said, taking a seat on the grass again. Body on alert. Seeing her like this made toga chuckle again.
“You don’t have to worry I spread my yoki in their area. No demon in their right mind would try to attack us”, she said sitting next to her. Izayoi visibly relaxed at this but her body was still tense from the dream. This didn’t go unnoticed by him.
“I take it, it wasn’t a pleasant dream”, he said looking at the moon. Again she was startled at his words.
“Wha-“.
“My ears aren’t just to frame my face, my lady”, he chuckled. The surprised expression was quickly wiped from her face as the memories flashed before.
He turned towards her scanning her face and body language. He turned back up to the moon as he said,” you don’t have to say anything. We can just sit here, if that’s ok”. It was silent for a moment until.
“Thank you”, she said softly.
And they continued to sit there. The soft wind and moon sharing their company.
Notes:
Thanks again, see you in the next chapter.
Chapter Text
Chapter 6.5
Izayoi didn’t get much sleep last night as her nightmare still weighed heavy on her mind. Though lord Toga’s company did ease her. The inhabitants of the castle cleaned themselves and managed to present themselves well at the funeral to the best of their ability. They could have easily been a part of the bodies that laid covered in cloth in front of them.
They all gathered around the funeral pyre for Lord Kazuha and his family. A priest that took care of the castle’s neighboring shrine was one the few men that survived. He stood there saying some final prayers hoping they were at peace in the after life.
“Peace? Yea right”, she thought bitterly. Their men were butchered and family had no choice but to slit their bellies open with no one there to cut their heads. They all died painfully and violently. If it were her she would have come back as a vengeful spirit, cursing everyone who wronged her.
Izayoi hated funerals. She hated the ceremonies. She hated the smell of the burning body as it turned into ash. She hated the deep sorrow the dead leave their loved ones with. Death is easy but is hardest on the ones you leave behind. She could see the sun peaking over the horizon and think back to her own fathers funeral.
It was early the sun hadn't yet broken the sky as they carried my fathers body on the beach. It was surprisingly not windy as the waves crashing on the shore, barely disturbing the sand. It was as if the whole world wept for the loss of her father. Void of joy and laughter. Empty.
He told us he wanted to be buried the way it was done in the Roa customs. His body would be set ablaze on its voyage at sea. He used to say it symbolizes the spirit becoming free by giving the body back to the earth. He said our bodies are borrowed to us by the gods and we must give it back after we no longer need it. This allows them to give us life again when we birth children.
She watched as the archers set the pyre a blaze, the flames quickly engulfing him. Since the sun wasn’t up yet night was still around them. In the distance it looked like his body was a star that fell from the sky. His body and the raft turned to ash, blowing away in the wind.
Never had she felt such sorrow as she saw her father becoming one with the earth again. He would never spar with her under the cherry blossom tree in the garden or tell her Roa stories. She could now only hear his voice as they replayed in her dreams and memories.
His soft smile and tired eyes still gazing upon her. The most tender gaze she has ever seen, now ripped away from her.
A single tear rolled her face as she watched the fire blazed on. She hated funerals.
Notes:
This chapter was really short because I needed a buffer to transition to the next part of this story. Thx for reading ;D
Chapter 8: Lions den
Summary:
Traitors are among us and they will pay!!!!!!1
Notes:
This chapter will be heavy please skip if you are uncomfortable.
Chapter Text
Chapter 7
TRIGGER WARNING:
Sexual assault, Pedophilla
⚠️ ⚠️⚠️⚠️
It’s been nearly a week since the raid on Karatsu Castle took place. Karatsu castle and the neighboring temple have been used as a refugee camp and sanctuary for those fleeing from the conflict. Some of the Konoe traveled back to Fukuoka castle to tell news of their victory.
While away Izayoi learned that the Mongols had attacked the southern region. Luckily Lord Riizo had already moved her brother and mother before they were ambushed. Though something in her spirit unsettles her about how they knew the armies movements. For the last couple of hours she has been in a private meeting with her most senior Konoe and Lord Toga.
“This bay is too important for us to abandon it. Especially now since Lord Kazuha and the Karatsu family are gone”, Izayoi was in her tent outside the castle, talking with Konoe and lord Toga. The castle has been fortified in case of another attack while they send messengers of their plans.
“To have an attack coming from the south is worrisome. Is our information on their formations wrong?”,asked Tsuki, one of her senior Konoe.
“It is possible for them to split their groups up to try and take the island from multiple sides”, Toga perked up.
“There also haven’t been any demon reports yet”, Izayoi said. “Something doesn’t feel right”, she thought. Just then Izayoi was interrupted by a call from outside the tent. Izayoi looked up to see Yuri with a grave look on her face.
“My lady, we have also received messages from the Konoe and Takemaru-san”, she said trying to catch her breath.
“Easy yuki deep breaths and tell us what’s happened”.
Yuri handed Izayoi the letter sent to her from Fukuoka. “There was an ambush and the shogun's men were killed”. This caused a gasp to spread around the room. Izayoi began reading the letter out loud.
“ We bring grave news to my lady. The garrison the shogun had sent to aid us, where found butchered by the villagers that fled Ishida. They said the countryside was attacked by the Mongols coming from the east, with them a horde of demons. The villagers that survived told of how they devoured the men while the Mongols pillaged the villages. We believe they're trying to block us off from the rest of the country then make their way up. We wait for your orders my lady”, Takemaru.
“Dammit this is exactly what I thought they would do”, Izayoi said.
“That’s impossible Kokura Castle sits at the east and guards mount Komoji and the bridge that connects to Honshu”, from the Konoe Muyu.
“The Mongols come from a place covered in grassy plains. Even with aid from the Song and Goryeo dynasty mixed into their forces they wouldn’t be familiar with our country's land. Not even Hyōga would blindly enter inland like that. This is no coincidence my lady”, came Toga in a serious tone. It seems like both their minds were headed to the same conclusion.
“We have a traitor”, Izayoi finally said. The room fell quiet at that revelation.
“What! That’s crazy, who would betray their own people”, came Tsuki.
“It’s only a logical conclusion. They also have been attacking strategic points on the island to cause confusion and to cut us off from outside help. The difference is the time and locations they’re picking”, Izayoi said.
“Taking down the ports would have been easier and smarter to prevent anyone from fleeing or entering. But the attacks from the south and at Ishida were more inland than on the coast. Here at Karatsu, is the only place we know of right now that was a coastal attack. Even so they quickly started moving inland as we saw on our way here. Plus I can count on my hand which lords knew where my mother and brother would be”, she said with knitted brows.
The ladies and Toga could read between the implications she just laid out.“The next questions are , how many more traitors are there and which lords betrayed us”, Yuri’s voice came out ice cold.
“A week ago after we returned from Iki I had a meeting with the lords to start our battle plans. The lords that couldn’t travel sent convoys to relay the messages. That could explain information being spread unwillingly”.
“One of the lords that were missing was Lord Taku”, Yuri exclaimed. Everyone in the room turned towards her.
“Lord Taku oversees the border to Honshu, and resides in Kokura Castle though he is a lesser lord and is overseen by his uncle Lord Nobonaru. Whispers say the boy is nothing but a puppet for his uncle, he is one that truly pulls the strings”, Yuri said.
Izayoi remembers lord Nobonaru well; he had sent a proposal to her father for her hand in marriage when she was a child. She had thought it would have been for Lord Taku who is three years younger than her but to her shock it was for him. He always made her skin crawl whenever he would come to the regional meetings with all the other lords. Lord Taku was his ward since his parents passed three years ago. He taxed the merchants to hell and back for using their waterways and bridges. It wouldn’t be surprising if he was one of the traitors as well. Just then a thought came rushing into her head.
“I know how to weed out the traitors”, she exclaimed.
“We will travel to Minami tonight”, Izayoi said finally. Everyone in the room except Toga and Yuri were confused by her words. The “entertainment”, or the secret “pleasure” district falls under neutral land within the governing of Kuyushu. It was the largest and richest city on the island due to its illegal underground prostitution ring. It's a popular destination for those who had the wealth to spend there. Minami was located a few miles away from Hakata Bay which made it a gold mine for merchants. It is even visited by lords and their samurai often. Some of them own the shop fronts for their secret prostitution ring. People all across Edō would visit there, this led to a vast network of information being shuttled across the city. Even Lord Toga knew about the city.
“The cultural district my lady?”, asked Muyu.
“Secrets, information, and plots can easily be acquired in the midst of pleasure or by gossip workers”, said Yuki.
“Some of the lords visit the district to divulge in services provided there and to plan schemes. Lord Nobonaru visits the district quite often and partially owns some of the pleasure houses. We can blend in as one of the women there and gather information. I have a feeling we will sniff out our traitors there”, Izayoi said.
“Gather our supplies and four more Konoe. This mission is to be done with the utmost stealth, understand”. The women nodded their heads and left to get ready. She was left in the room with lord toga.
“And what will you do my lady? The pleasure houses will be able to tell you are a princess the minute you walk in there”, he said, raising an eyebrow. Izayoi smirked at this and turned around.
“You're right my lord, that’s only if they could tell I am a woman”. This made toga’s eyes go wide.
“You don’t surly mean to-“.
“Yes I do. I’m already quite tall, and I already walk like a warrior. I will hide the fact I don’t have more noticeable male parts like my neck, and make my chest flat. I will tie my hair. At best I will just look like a feminine man”, she explained.
“I say this with the utmost respect my lady but you are too beautiful to even pass as a feminine male. You may have the determination of a warrior but you are still a princess. I may not know much about humans but even I can see right through it”, he said gently to her. Izayoi knitted her brows and hung her head low in thought. Toga was about to apologize for upsetting her until she spoke up.
“If that's your conclusion then what should I then my Lord”, she said looking him straight in the eye. Toga was slightly unnerved by the serious look in her eyes.
“I think you should watch from afar and wait for the Konoe’s singles. I understand you work well in that realm”, he said finally. Izayoi took in his words and nodded.
“Ok I’ll consider your words my lord”, she said she was about to walk away when she turned back to him. “And my lord, I am a warrior”, she finished with a smirk. With that she left the tent to get ready.
Five days later
The group made it to Minami and were lucky enough to keep their cover from being blown. The Konoe manage to be taken in by some of the shops as “workers”. Izayoi has been staying quiet in the shadows.
She has been staying around the district disguised as a ronin. She has already been solicited multiple times for under the table services. Lord Toga has also been keeping his distance since his presence would be hard to disguise. He has been doing his own work while there. Lady Izayoi while staying in an inn when she heard commotion outside.
“MOVE MAKE WAY FOR LORD NOBONARU”!
Her eyes widened as said lord entered the well established inn. She stepped and lowered her head and gaze as the lord passed the other patrons. Lord Nobonaru was as slimy and disgusting as she remembered. He was wearing the finest silk embroidered with his family’s colors. He was a large imposing man, who constantly looked down on everyone around him. He had two men stationed with him as he approached the owner of the inn.
“L-l-l-lord Nobonaru, we have been excitedly waiting for you. We have your room ready”.
He didn’t even pay the scared innkeeper a glance as he moved down the hall. He opened his disgusting mouth and said, “Send your finest girl to bring me sake and my dinner”.
“Y-y-yes of course milord”.
Izayoi sneered at the disgusting man. Even now he made her skin crawl. In the 24 hours they have been there she has learned of the title system used to label the women who worked in the district. “Maiden ” meant late teens into their twenties, “wench” was used for girls older than twenty-one and were considered “used” goods, and “finest” was used for girls mid-teens and younger. Tsuki and Kaoi were both stationed at this inn and are considered maidens. They were able to hide their Roa tattoos and prevent any of the men from touching them.
She instructed the girls to do whatever they can to prevent being forced to “service” the patrons. The girls have drugs on them to knock out the men before they can touch them. She has been requesting one of the to her quarters, for “services” to relay information.
“He only has those two men with him? The fool”, she thought. She called over the keeper and requested Tsuki to her room. They must strike while he is here.
She made it back to her room when she heard a soft knock and a voice. “I am here my lady”, said Tsuki. The door slid open revealing her comrade as she was ushered into the room.
“The gods look like they're on our side. Lord Nobonaru is here in the inn. We will make our movie tonight. He will be served by a girl tonight but make sure the food that is brought to his room is “fit” for tonight’s activities”.
“Yes my lady”.
“Got you now bastard”, Izayoi thought.
Later that night
Lord Nobonaru sat irritated in his room as he waited for his service. He has had the most trying day and would like to blow off some steam.
“Those damn fools, how could they not possibly know where Lady Izayoi and that horde of defiant whores she keeps are”!
“It’s already bad enough I have those wretched demons on my heels now, I can’t find our main obstacle”, he thought angrily. Lord Nobonaru and a few other lords have been secretly trying to depose the Fukuoka clan for ten years now. They had hoped lord Fukuoka would have died in the first Mongol invasion but stubbornly stayed alive longer than they wanted. He was highly favored among the commoners and the shogun, giving him power over the other lords. The other lords secretly rejoiced when he finally died leaving his position open.
“It wouldn’t have been such a problem if it wasn’t for his wench daughter Lady Izayoi”, he thought. Their wretched family still practiced the old ways of the Roa Kingdom which allowed women to hold positions regardless of a male being born. Since he was the eldest child, she was taught lessons in strategy and leadership. There were also whispers that she was also taught Roa’ku, or what some would say magic .
Since she took up the position as head of the Fukuoka clan and has been a thorn in the lord's side. Her beauty and grace misled the lords into believing she was dimwitted and could be easily swayed like a woman should be. She was stubborn, unheedling, and commanded the room the minute she walked in. Many fell for her and wanted to make her there’s but she refused every marriage proposal sent to her. Her iron will has also put a leash on the underground rulings of the lords.
“Dammit if only Lord Fukuoka had just accepted my marriage proposal when she was a child, I could have been the daimyo of these lands”, he angrily thought. He would have used her status as enough legitimacy to take over the lands and be its ruler. He would have made sure to enslave the Konoe to do his bidding and destroy any traces of the Roa left in the land.
He was smart enough to meet with the Mongol invaders and broker a deal with them. “Help them take over Nippon and let him keep his life and lordship”. It was a sweet deal that was happily accepted. They have already used his strategies at the start of the invasion, all he needs to do now is locate the princess and kill her.
“A woman isn’t fit to wield such power anymore. We must find her and destroy her. The era of the Roa is over”!
*knock knock*
He turned his head to the door as he heard a meek voice say, “I have brought your meal milord”. “Hgh finally”, he thought bitterly. “Enter”. A girl slid the door open and entered his quarters with a tray of food and a bottle of sake.
She was dressed in a plain kimono with her hair done up. She had on light makeup that made her look slightly older than she was. Her facial features were delicate, giving her a soft spring look. Her eyes were downcast as she didn’t dare look at lord Nobonaru.
“Yes yes she will do”, he thought wickedly.
After she finished pouring the sake she made an attempt to leave but was stopped by Nobonaru with a hard grasp of her shoulder.
“And where do you think you're going, girl. You're here to serve, you will stay until I tell you otherwise”, he said angrily. His grasp on her shoulder was hard as she winched from the pain, but still nodded her head. Nobonaru sat there enjoying his fill of the meal and cups of sake. The girl continued to pour until he was ready for his main course.
“Undress”, he said, taking his last gulp of sake. The girl gasped and for the first time looked up at the lord with shock and confusion.
“P-p-pardon milord”, she squeaked out.
“I said undress!! Are you hard of hearing girl"!
The younger still sat there shocked at his order and too frightened to make a move. This angered the tipsy lord as he grabbed the girl by her hair causing her to shrink in pain. He pulled her frightened face towards his, his disgusting breath wharfing over.
“Stupid insubordination wenches. If you weren't born with those sweet cunts between your legs you would be absolutely worthless. Now strip before I make you swallow this cup whole”!
The young girl frightened beyond belief began to take her clothes with tears in her eyes. Lord Nobonaru dropped the sake cup which caused the girl to jump and took a swig from the bottle. He placed the bottle back on the grown and reached into his robs to pull out his semi hard member.
“Lay down and open your legs. I wanna see that sweet young cunt”, he said, stroking himself. The poor girl felt sick to her stomach for what he was about to do to her. She held her cry in as she did what he said in fear of him hurting her anymore.
He kneeled down still stroking himself as he stared at her privates. “You better be untouched or that innkeeper will have hell to pay”, he said salivating. He teased himself to enter her when there was a knock at the door.
*knock knock*
Angered that he was interrupted, Lord Nobonaru turned his eerie look at the figure at the door. “What is the meaning of this? I am trying to enjoy my meal!”, he shouted. The girl jumped at his tone.
Without answer the door opened causing the lord to scramble to his knees. “Have you lost your mind-“. The words died in his mouth as he saw the figures before him.
The women came before the lord dressed in their Konoe garments, faces covered with Oni masks.
Izayoi saw the girl that was beneath him. The girl looked no older than twelve years, trembling, she was completely frightened.
“What is the meaning of this? GET-“, the lord's mouth was covered by Kaoi before he could yell. He tried to pry her hands off him but her grip was too strong.
“What’s wrong milord are we not of your taste? Too old?”, sneered Tsuki. Her eyes bore into his showing nothing but pure disgust.
“Don’t bother struggling milord no one will come to your aid. Your guards have already been….taken care of. We need to talk with you Milord, so try not to give us any issues”, Izayoi said in a deadly voice.
Lord Nobonaru trembled before the women fearing for his life. “These are the Konoe! They must have been sent here by Lady Izayoi!! BUT HOW!”, he screamed in his head.
Izayoi turned to the young girl who looked like her header was about to leap from her chest. Her eyes softened as she gazed upon her. Her hand went to her hip and untied a small but hefty bag. She threw it towards her on the bed. The girl's hands trembled as she touched the pouch. She opened and gasped as it was filled with money.
“Dress yourself and leave this place as quickly as you can. Head towards Fukuoka castle; they will help you and your family. Stay off the roads and only travel during the day. Speak nothing of what you saw here”, she said to her.
The girl nodded her head and bowed deeply. She dressed herself and left the room. On her way out she turned to the old lord and spared him a look that sent shivers down his spine.
Tsuki hauled the man up to his feet, her blade at his neck. He looked like a rat caught in a trap. Izayoi stood before him and whispered, “Traitor”.
Chapter 9: Trust
Notes:
Hello everyone, I have feeling super inspired with this story so I have been focusing on it more, but I will be updating my other works too. I also will be fleshing out Izyaoi's back story more in the coming chapters.
Chapter Text
Chapter 8
Last time*
Tsuki hauled the man up to his feet, her blade at his neck. He looked like a rat caught in a trap. Izayoi stood before him and whispered, “Traitor”.
Izayoi leaned back as she watched the bastard's eyes widen at her words. Tsuki gaged him and put a bag over his head as they led him out of the room. It was easy to practically walk him towards the back of the inn seeing that they drugged tonight’s dinner. Effectively knocking everyone out without injury.
They guided him through the back alleys of the town until they came upon a smaller inn on the outskirts of the town. They ragged him in and shoved him to the ground.
Lord Nobonaru was so scared he didn’t make a sound as he heard the women talking and shuffling around him.
“Dammit those worthless guards couldn’t even do their jobs. Calm yourself, you can probably broker a deal with the leader, or pay them off. Yes Yes, offer them money, no fool will turn it down!”, he thought.
“Whatever lady Izayoi is paying you, I can double your weight in gold! Release me and I will assure you that and place as my soldiers”, he shouted out on the air. All noise around him ceased and all he could hear was his own heart thumping in his ears. Suddenly a male voice was heard.
“Hmph foolish human”.
“What! Human? Is there a demon amongst them and a man at that?”, his mind raced. His thoughts were cut short as he heard the voice from the woman earlier give a command.
“Draw him to his knees and remove the bag”. Nobonaru felt his body being hoisted up and the bag removed harshly from his head. His eyes tried to adjust to the light as he came face to face with lady Izayoi herself.
He was completely surrounded by the women, all looking at him with disdain. His eyes traveled to the demon standing off the side. His golden eyes peered down at him like he was a disgusting insect. His eyes landed back on Izayoi as she bore into him.
“Now what was it you were saying about paying my weight in gold! I wasn’t aware you had such wealth my lord”, her voice as sharp as her blade. He chose to remain quiet as she smirked at him.
“Oh! No snarky remark my lord. I would think a man of your attitude would be screaming your head off again. Or are you upset we interrupted you earlier”, she said pacing in front of him.
“Why have you detained me my lady I have done nothing wrong?”, he gritted his teeth at her.
“NO!”, she shouted. This startled the man for he didn’t expect her to raise her voice.
“YOU can ONLY answer questions, not ask them. Don't bother trying to weasel your way out of this my lord. I already know you have been selling out to the enemy. I advise you to start talking or we WILL start cutting parts of you away”, she said. Her words sent chills down his spine but he was still defiant.
“NO you bastards should be bowing to me! You aren’t fit to rule, you're nothing but a worthless woman. All you're good for is warming a man’s bed and birth children. HAHAHAHA you think you can intimidate me think again wench! Even if you kill me my nephew and the other lords won’t stand for it”, he screamed in her face. Yuri and Toga stepped forward to him but Izayoi held up her hand.
“Feh I always knew you were a fool but even a fool would throw away their pride to save their own life.” She turned to Tsuki, “Sharpen your blade”.
All air and bravado left the lord as those words fell from her lips. “Wha-wa-what”, he said, eyes widened like a fish. He saw one of the women draw her dagger and began sharpening it as two others grabbed him from behind.
“NO NO NO NOOO-MMMMMMMM”. His mouth of stuff with cloth to cover up his screams. The women ripped his Hakama off him, leaving him bare below as the day he was born. A bucket of water was placed in front of him and Izayoi pulled out a sack of salt. The lord's eyes went wide at the size of the bag. He thrashed his head from side to side as tears began to form.
“You should leave before we begin Lord Toga, he might shit himself. The smell will greatly offend you”, she turned to the demon. Toga couldn’t tell if it were her words or tone but he couldn’t stifle the laugh that tumbled out of him. His laughter halted everyone as their eyes were on him.
“Haha forgive me but you truly are unique Lady Izayoi. Thank you for your concern but I have been in plenty of wars to understand the smell”, he said catching himself.
Lord Toga always found a way to unnerve her with the slightest actions. She hated the fact she found his face full of laughter to be most pleasing.
“Very well then”, she simply said. Her body focused back to the lord before her.
“THAT BASTARD HOW COULD HE LAUGH AT THIS HUMILIATION. ISN'T HE A MAN HIMSELF”, lord Nobonaru screamed in his head. His voice was still muffled from the cloth in his mouth as the woman kneeled in front of him and grabbed his manhood pushing it out of the way.
She handed lady Izayoi the blade as she kneeled down before him. “One last chance before I make you a eunuch”, she said, pulling the gag out of his mouth.
“Please have mercy my lady I’ll tell you everything I swear!”
Izayoi smirked and got back to get feet. The blade was still in her hands as she pointed it at him.
“Talk”.
Lord Nobunaru quickly spilled his guts in fear she would change her mind.
“A powerful demon named Hyoga is the one who is pushing the invasion. He is using the chaos caused by the Mongols to fuel his power. He didn’t share it with me but I overheard his demon subordinates talking about something called the “Tree of Ages”.
Toga’s eyes narrowed at that. “The Tree of Ages, that’s what you're after Hyōga”, he thought.
“Who else is working with you?”, continued Izayoi.
“Lord Takuma, Lord Hisahi, and Lord Yuma. They’re also here, we are meant to have a final meal tomorrow before our plans begin”.
“Mmm so lord Riizo didn’t betray me”, she thought.
“And what are those plans?”
“W-w-we planned to attack Lord Riizo again and eliminate your brother and mother”, the room somehow got even more silent as the words fell from his mouth. Yuri pulled out her blade and approached him but was stopped by Izayoi’s hand.
“My lady please have mercy I will be valuable to you I swear”, the lord begged.
“Silence your crying you fool. When will this attack take place?”
“In the evening, day after tomorrow”.
Izayoi turned to Masako, her best tracker. “Take four girls with you and leave tonight. Intercept the assassins and fill Lord Riizo in as little as possible”.
“Yes my lady”.
The woman vanishes immediately, shocking the lord. Izayoi turned back to him and kneeled down.
“Now what to do with you?”, she smirked.
“NO MY LADY I STILL HAVE MORE INFORMATION”.
“Oh and what is that?”
“The ⅓ of the Mongols army have stationed themselves in the Ariake sea. They practically have control over Kumamoto with the help of Lord Yuma. Lord Yuma has brokered a deal with them to help remove Riizo so he can also take control of the southern region”.
“Mmm that makes sense, Ariake gives them easier access to the sea while also keeping them hidden from us”, she thought. An idea came to her mind causing her to smirk.
“Valuable information indeed but I can’t trust the word of a cheat and snake. Lets see if Lord Takuma, Hisahi and Yuma are willing to back up your words. Gag him again”, Izayoi said. The woman followed her orders and silenced him again.
With her knife still in hand Izayoi kneeled down in front of the pitiful lord as he thrashed around the girl's hold.
“I thank you for your cooperation, my lord. Something tells me your information is valid but I still must verify”.
“Though with such valuable information I still can’t overlook the treason you have committed so you must be punished. I Fukuoka Izayoi of clan Fukuoka No Roa, Daimyo of Kyushu sentences you with castration”, she said finally. His eyes widened as tears rolled down his cheeks, his face flushed red as he screamed with the gag in his mouth.
“A punishment fitting for a pervert. Don’t move too much, we want a clean cut or you will bleed to death”.
Izayoi grabbed his member and moved it out of the way. She placed her blade underneath his balls and with one swift motion, sliced them off. Blood sprouted from the region and screamed from pain and subsequently passed out from shock.
Even toga shifted uncomfortably as he felt his own balls tense up at the scene before him. “Bastard has it coming”, he thought.
“Move him to the back and treat him. Make sure the bastard lives. I still have plans for him”, she said standing up. The Konoe nodded their heads and picked up the unconscious lord, moving him to one of the rooms of the old inn.
“That went better than I thought it did. Thought that bastard was going piss everywhere”, Toga said letting out a breath. Izayoi turned to him as she wiped the splattered blood off her.
“May I speak with you privately my lord”, she said.
“I figured as much”, he thought.
Toga simply nodded his head as she led him outside.
The two traveled some ways into the neighborhood forest away from ears and eyes. The moonlight illuminated the forest around them. Once they were a safe distance away Izayoi let everything out.
“Does this “Tree of Ages”, mean something to you my lord?”, she questioned.
Toga sighed as he tried to find the words. “Once I knew Hyōga was involved I figured he was also searching for the tree like his son was”.
“And why didn’t you relay this information to me when we first met”, she said angrily.
“Focusing on the Mongols was a higher priority than some hunch I had”.
“Even so, I sent that signal to you because it was more than just the Mongols we have to worry about now. And now I hear about some tree that is an even bigger threat”, she shouted.
Toga was taken back from her anger, it’s been some time since anyone has yelled at him like this.
“For now the tree isn’t a priority. There is a reason why we haven’t had a full on assault from them yet. The fool most likely doesn’t even know where it is ”, he said sternly.
“Well, is there a plan to look for this tree before he finds it?”
“I have sent Myoga off to look for it”, he replied.
“My lord, if our alliance is to work we both need to trust each other. Everyone’s lives are at stake here. You didn’t think that was also important to tell me”, she said with eyes still blazing. Toga knew she was right but something about her made him want to continue arguing with her.
“I understand my lady though I still stand with my reasoning, especially after we were blindsided by that demon at Karatsu”.
“You said it yourself he was no true threat. Even if you weren’t there we would have defeated him”, she said.
“Most people would apologize if they wronged someone but here he is being smug”, she thought getting more irritated.
“It’s not just him, Hyōga could have been there, and that would have been a serious problem”, he said in a matter of fact tone. Izayoi's eyebrow twitched as she took in his words. Her anger fully boiling over.
“Do you think I'm weakling? I was handling that demon just fine at the castle without your help. I don’t need you to shield me”, she yelled.
“Where the hell is this coming from, has she lost her mind?”, he thought, his own irritation blowing up.
“Wasn’t the whole point of me becoming your ally was to help with the threat of Hyoga or am I mistaken”, he said sarcastically.
“Yes I did send that signal in hopes of an ally but it seems like I was the only one holding up my promises. It seems like this alliance has gone sour”, she gritted her teeth at him.
“Whether you like it or not Kyushu is also part of my domain and everyone underneath is under my protection. That includes you”, he yelled back. Those last words caused her to fully explode.
“I don’t need anyone to protect me nor did I ask for it”!!
“I never said you needed protection”.
“No but you implied it”.
“ I didn’t”.
“Yes you did”!
“Is she really having a temper tantrum right now”. he thought as he could feel himself getting more and more annoyed.
“Enough of this, we should be getting back—“
Before he could even finish his words, Izayoi rushed at Toga and tackled him with great force. She took hold of him and pushed his body through three full grown trees before his back hit the ground. The wind was knocked out of him for a split second.
He blinked as he registered what just happened. He looked down to see Izayoi flushed against his body, still clutching on to him. Her cheek pressed up against his chest and he could feel her breast through her jumpsuit against him. She shifted and felt their groins rubbed against each other. Toga had to find the willpower to not groan at the sweet friction.
“Have you lost your mind Woman”, he yelled at her and he raised himself to his elbows. She slowly ease up off him a bit to look at him. Her hair, which was in a loose braid now undone, gave her a wild look.
She looked up and him huffing out her nose. Her breath was slightly labored from tackling him through the trees. He could feel it ghost across his lips, tickling and enticing him. His eyes moved from her own to her lips. Perfect and plump, they looked soft to the touch. He found himself wanting to know what they felt like, causing him to instinctively licked his own.
“I take it this is the first time a human has knocked you on your ass” , she said breathlessly. Her harsh words pulled him from his trance. His eyebrows slightly furrowed as the words registered in his mind.
“So what? That little display was you trying to prove something?”, he said annoyed.
“Yes! It was to show I'm not some weakling. I can and have been handling shit by myself”, she shot back. She went to come off his chest by leaning back on to her on her thighs, but without releasing she caused their groins to flush against each other again.
“Damn it”, he cursed in his head.
“Provoking a demon is a foolish action”, he said in a huff.
“You weren't going to hurt me”, she shot back.
“Oh really sure about that”, he said, grabbing her arms and barring his sharp canines to her. She simply stared back at him unfazed by his intimidation. She stared deeply in his eyes as she could feel his breath on her lips. Her heart was beating slightly faster than normal.
“I don’t scare easily demon lord”, she smirked at him shifting as she straddled him. Toga hissed as he could feel himself slowly getting hard at the passing friction.
“Will you stop that? It's like you're trying to seduce me”, he groaned out. As if her mind finally registered their situation, Izayoi’s face turned beet red as she realized she was straddling him.
“Uh-uh uh”. She quickly came off him shocked at the situation.
“What the fuck? I can’t believe I practically mounted him. An-and I felt his…”, her thoughts raced.
“Well now that you're done molesting me, we should head back”.
“Ex-excuse me?”. She stared at him dumb founded.
“If you simply wanted to mount me all you had to was asking. Be glad no one heard the trees falling”, he said standing up. Izayoi shot to her feet, her face searing red with anger.
“Now you wait one second here DEMON LORD I’m still a princess and the reigning daimyo of these to insinuate that is- OW”. She smacked her neck in the middle of her sentence feeling a stinging sensation.
“Myoga?”. The flea demon inflated himself again as he heard his master's call.
“That little demon again”, Izayoi thought as she looked at the insect demon in her hand.
“Master, I bring you news. I have gathered more allies for help in the fight against Hyōga. Lord Tsukyomaru of the Ogre Bat Tribe will be here soon. The lesser demons are also ready”, he said out of breath.
“Good any word of the tree”, Toga asked.
“Yes!!! I have found it”, he said excitedly. Both toga and Izayoi let out a sigh neither one knew they held on to.
“The problem is so has the mongols”, he said quickly.
“WHAT”.
Chapter 10: The true hunter
Notes:
Men constantly underestimate Izayoi but she isn’t one to be truffled with.
Chapter Text
Chapter 9
The sun was blazing as the patrons of the city went about their day. Word of the Mongols have spread but most didn’t truly believe they were inhabiting the island.
“Make way for Lord Takuma”. The crowd parted as said lord and his guards walked to the Inagawa Inn. Inagawa was the most popular inn situated with an Onsēn and restaurant. It was also known to have the most beautiful women as servants.
“Take me to see Lord Hisahi, and Lord Yuma”, he said to the owner. The owner bowed and had two of his finest women escort the lord to the private meeting room. Walking through the halls it was clear to see the wealth the inn held. The wooden floors were in pristine shape, not a speck of dust anywhere. Even the servants were dressed in the finest silk kimonos.
The servants opened the door to the large meeting room. Inside the two lords were seated. As he entered the two servants bowed and left his guards by the door.
“There you are lord Takuma, we were starting to think you were going to miss our meal”, lord Yuma sneered. He picked up his chopsticks and began eating, ignoring all etiquette. Lord Takuma schooled his face to prevent a grimace from appearing. “Insolent bastard”, he thought.
“Yes well I had a prior engagement to deal with”, lord Takuma began to eat as well.
“Prior engagement” you say? Does it have anything to do with our discussion at hand”, inquired lord Hiashi. His eyes narrowed at Takuma as if daring him to lie.
“No”, he said, gritting his teeth.
“Now, now everyone we are all allies here there is no need for such hostility”, chided lord Yuma. None of these lords truly liked each other and were using each other to get rid of an enemy.
“You're right we are here to talk about our common enemy. Izayoi-Hime”, sighed Hiashi.
“Her brother and mother should be getting dealt with now. Leaving her as the last piece of the Fukuoka clan”, said Takuma.
“We can force her to marry since the death of brother will leave no true heir to her family”, Hiashi suggested.
“No, the woman is too proud to give up her family. She has refused countless marriage proposals even when she’s coming out of marrying age. It’s best to kill the wench and destroy any trace of her family”, Yuma sneered.
“Lord Yuma is right, she is too dangerous to be kept alive. The common people are loyal to her family. We must break her from the inside”, came Takuma.
“It’s a shame to do away with a nice piece of ass like that. Wait, how about giving me her as a concubine and then I’ll kill her”, Yuma exclaimed. Both the men grimaced at his crude remarks. As if water was splashed on him, Lord Takuma realized they're missing a member.
“And where is that fool Nobonaru?”, he exclaimed.
Two thuds could be heard outside the door as the lords whipped their heads in said direction. There was a short silence until the door opened. All the men’s faces went completely pale.
“What the hell?”, whispered lord Yuma.
Standing at the door was none other than Princess Izayoi. She was dressed in a traditional kimono popular among the Princess of today. She wore slight makeup and her hair flew gracefully behind her. Her movements were as graceful as expected from a princess. She glided across the room to stand in front of the lords.
“My lady, what are you doing here?” Hisahi jumped to his feet.
“I was asked to come on behalf of Lord Nobonaru”, she said, taking a seat. Her loyal second in command Yuri stood off to the side glaring at the men.
“What! Did that bastard betray us or get captured?” Lord Takuma screamed in his head.
“My I guess manners have become a thing of the past. Is it not customary to properly greet your princess let alone you daimyo?”, in an exhausted sigh. All three men realized their error and quickly went into a deep bow.
“Dammit, how do we control this situation? How much does this wench knows?”, Takuma’s mind raced.
“Mmm it’s been awhile since I have been face to face with you lords intimately like this. Please eat, don't stop on my account.”, she smiled at them. All of them looked like they just saw a ghost, completely uncomfortable with the situation.
“Spineless bastards”, she thought. Izayoi took the opportunity to look over her enemies as they shifted uncomfortably in front of her.
Lord Yuma the slimy bastard was disgusting as she remembered. He was older than the other two with greasy black hair peppered with slight grays. He was like Nobonaru, a conniving weasel with no backbone. Easily squashed without much fight. He gained some power with the help of the Mongols and feels as if he rules the world.
Lord Hiashi was the youngest of the two; he was two years older than Izayoi but he wasn’t naive. He was cold and distant. Keep to the shadows and watch his enemies looking for a weakness. He was never one to get his hands dirty. A coward through and through.
Lord Takuma was the true brains behind this coup. He inherited his lordship from his father a decade ago and has been trying to repair the damage he was left with. His father had run his family’s name and fortune down the drain with bad investments and petty wars. Her father had given him aid with rebuilding his family’s reputation and helped them with regaining some fortune. She knows he was able to make back that fortune due to selling women in these inns. He controls a good portion of the brothels here and some in Honshũ. He seems calm and collected but he is power hungry and will squash anyone to get it.
“This meal was actually brought to you by Lord Nobonaru and I. I picked out the freshest cut meat Lord Nobonaru had to offer. I hear eating testicles help boost a man’s stamina and offer great vitality”, she giggled behind her hand. All the men turned green at the meaning behind her words. Lord Hisahi hid his hand behind his mouth while Lord Yuma looked as if he was going to gag.
“What is the meaning of this my lady”, lord Yuma practically screamed. Yuri was about to strike him for his insolence but Izayoi held up her hand and stopped her.
“I advise you from raising your voice at me my lord. I was born with only so much patience”, she said icily.
“Where is lord Nobonaru my lady?” Takuma bit out. His hands were shaking from a combination of angry and….fear.
“Well he is right here my lord, well part of him is. He no longer had any use of his manly bits but I couldn’t just let such valuable meat go to waste. Fine lords such as yourself deserve the most unique delicacies”, she smiled.
With that lord Hisahi and Yuma both vomited at the revelation of what they were eating. Takuma was the only one that stood strong even though he was cornered and terrified.
“You disgusting wench you think we will let you get away with this”, Yuma screamed wiping his mouth.
“Get away with it? I already have you fool”.
“A weasel, a vulture and a snake all in one room. I know there is some ancient proverb about this”, Izayoi chuckled, shaking her head.
Lord Takuma grabbed his chopsticks in his hand waiting for the opportunity to shove them into her eyes and throat.
“Takuma-sama don’t even bother. I have barely said anything yet and I would hate to kill you before you hear me out”, she said looking into his eyes. He dropped the chopsticks as her words cut through him.
“Now I already know why Nobonaru, Hiashi and Yuma became traitors. They are all spineless idiots who have always had treachery in their hearts, but you, Lord Takuma. I’m surprised by you. Especially after my father helped you regain esteem for your family”, she said circling them.
“You are not fit to rule, you are a WOMAN!”, Takuma screamed. His face was blazing as his mask finally cracked. Izayoi smiled at his outburst, “finally showing your true face”.
“Really? You did all of this simply because I was born a woman”.
“Yes!! You dare try to change the traditions of OUR people with your poisonous beliefs. The era of the Roa is over and so are their beliefs. Why should you hold such power over us? YOU HAVE NO RIGHT”, he continued.
“I am far superior at ruling than you. I had to save my family from ruin. You would rather be galavanting with those stupid whores and demons. You and your father sully the great land of Kyuushū with your ideals. The Mongols have come to set everything right and I will be appointed the new daimyo under their rule”, he screamed. His eyes were wild with insanity as he spewed out those venomous words.
“HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHHA”, Izayoi bellowed out after he was done. Water sprang from the counter of her eyes as she continued to laugh. Takuma’s face grew even more red as she laughed at him.
“You insolent WENCH”, he screamed.
“Forgive me for laughing at such bullshit. You truly think THAT highly of yourself Takuma? You couldn’t even bring honor back to your family without selling the bodies of women for money but you want me to believe the Mongols would make YOU daimyo instead”, she chuckled.
“Men tsk. You all think women are idiots that aren’t meant to be seen or heard unless it’s to please you. You would rather watch your own country burn than to see a woman with power”, she laughed. The laugh held no joy but an icy cold bitterness like the winter.
“Well I guess you got what you wanted. My mother and brother are dead”, she said simply. All the air was sucked out of the room. All the men’s eyes went wide.
“Wa-what”, came lord Takuma.
“Your assassins were quicker than my Konoe and ended their lives quickly. I thank you for that I would hated to know they suffered before death.”, she smiled. Takuma could only stare at her in shock. “She should be balling her eyes out not smiling as if she won a victory”, he thought.
“Well that’s what I would have said if it were true”, she smiled at him. His heart sank, feeling another way of shock wash over him.
“What”, came lord Hiashi.
“Hahaha did you fools really think you could hurt my family and I didn't know about it? Hahaha Nobonaru gave you all up so easily even before I cut him”, she laughed.
“ENOUGH OF THIS MADNESS”, screamed lord Yuma.
“Not that it mattered anyways the poison should be taking effect soon. How many minutes has it been Yuri?”
“Twenty my lady”.
“P-p-poison”, Takuma whispered.
“Oh so in 3, 2, 1-“
“ARCH”
Lord Takuma wiped around and saw both Yuma and Hiashi clawing at their throats. Food and bile spewed from their mouth as their skin began to turn purple. They began kicking as the life was being drained out of them.
“Poison is such a funny thing. It’s all around us and even in the foods we eat. I purposely picked one that would take some time to take effect just so I had enough time to speak with you fools”.
“That glutinous bastard Yuma, I’m surprised he didn’t die right away from how much food he was shoveling into his cunt mouth”, she bit out.
“AAAAAAAAHHHH”, Takuma screamed as both lords were dead. Their faces shriveled up in pain, eyes wide open to the sky.
“Well poison is a woman’s weapon. I think me and my girls wield it well don’t you think my lord”, she said grabbing his shoulders. Lord Takuma could only sit there in disbelief and terror. His eyes turned back to Izayoi who was smirking down at him.
All of you have been my prey from the beginning you and I just didn’t know it yet. Now let’s move on to some real business”, she smiled sweetly at him.
Chapter 11: A choice
Summary:
Process process process
Notes:
Sorry I haven’t updated this in some time. Been having serious writers block and I honestly was being lazy but as a treat this chapter is longer than normal.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Chapter 10
Previously
All of you have been my prey from the beginning, you and I just didn’t know it yet. Now let’s move on to some real business”, she smiled sweetly at him.
Present
Touga stood a few yards away from Fukuoka castle staring up at the sky. His eyes searched the clouds as something approached him. He quickly went airborne as a carriage came into his few.
His body shot through the wind as he got closer and closer to the carriage. The imps that pulled it across the sky shuttered at the feeling of his demonic energy.
“Calm yourselves, it's just an old friend”, the voice from inside came. Touga came to a cool stop as he hovered at the outside of the carriage.
“I see that you're alone, Zero”, Touga said. The curtain of the carriage was moved as side as zero peered over at the demon lord with a small smile.
“And so are you, though you smell oddly of humans”, she said with a raised brow. Touga did well to ignore the hinted jab.
“Mmm yes well it seems my path has crossed theirs more often as of late”, he said simply. Touga wanted to cut the pleasantries short since he knew Zero would see right through them.
“You must know the country is under attack right now. The Mongols have chosen to attack once again”.
“Yes it seems their Khan felt cheated that he couldn’t add this country to lists of trophies”.
“Hyōga has also decided to step in this time as well”. This caused her to perk up a bit.
“If I recall correctly your brother despises Hyōga more than me”, he said.
“My lord, are you asking for my brother's help”, she smirked.
“Whatever one-sided feud Kirinmaru is holding, can wait. The insect is posing a great deal of problems for all of us”! Zero looked away from him but she knew he was right.
“There is something else you want to ask me isn’t there?”
Toga smirked at this. “Mmhm you know me well Zero-san. What do you know about the tree of ages?” That name caused her eyes to widen.
“The tree will bring great devastation upon this land for all of us”, she said in a serious tone. Tonga’s eyes got dark as he took in her words.
Since coming back from the entertainment district Izayoi has begun mobilizing the troops to get ready to attack Kumamoto. Many of the men were itching for a fight especially so many of them have lost their villages from the recent attacks.
“Ok so Takemaru will lead the troops into Higo providence on land. Based on our information they do out number ours but we will play it smartly. The Ariake Sea is well hidden but it’s a difficult place to maneuver through. We will flank them on the right and left side, using the hills to rain arrows over them, our main forces attack them straight into the city”, Izayoi explained to her small war council.
In the room there was lord Riizo, the head samurai Takemaru, and her two Konoe vice commanders, Yuri and Tsuki. The Inu no Taisho and a new comrade Tsukuyomaru; a ogre bat demon from his domain. He specialized in defense and has a positive attitude towards humans.
“Their enemy has branched out into neighboring villages, we will clear them as we make our way into Kumamoto”, she continued.
“What about the ships in the bay? They would use their archers to rain arrows down on top of us as well?”, Riizo asked.
“Yes that’s why we are going to take care of the ships before our initial attack begins”. Everyone looked puzzled at her words.
“Based on our information from the scouts, they brought in many of their ships into the Ariake Sea. Since it’s such a large area they started sending ships to the northern tip and the straight south of Higo. We found about ten ships in the area alone which is perfect”.
“Why go after these particular ships?”, asked Yuri.
“It’s because we are going to take their oil and black powder from them and dump it into the Higo port”, she smirked. Everyone’s eyes went wide at her words.
“B-b-but my lady wouldn’t it be wiser for us to take the gun power for ourselves”, Takemaru explained.
“We are greatly outnumbered by our enemies and fighting man to man even with the power of our Roa’ku users it will still be an uphill battle. So instead let our enemies help us destroy themselves”, she said.
“But why the black power”, asked Tsuki.
“Gunpower is flammable”, Touga said, chuckling. “Her battle strategies truly aren’t to be trifled with”, he thought.
“Thought it is useless when it’s wet so it will be ignited in the camps instead. Once the oil is the water it will sit there and burn on top of the water causing it to spread as the oil spreads. It will reach the ships cause they will catch on fire”, she then turned her head and looked at Touga.
“Inu no Taisho this will be a daunting task since the oil will only spread so wide and so fast. You, I will deal with destroying the other ships. Tsuki you will lead the charge in destroying the enemies in south of Higo”, she said. Tsuki perked up at this.
“Really? Me my lady”, Tsuki said shocked.
“You’re the strongest water Roa’ku user, you can easily destroy a few ships before getting tired. Plus you can sing them a “song” to quicken the process”, she smiled at her. Tsuki nodded back at her with determination at the use of her lady’s words.
“I assume you have been bored with these small missions we have been doing. This you can let loose”, she said, eying Touga.
“It will be no problem, plus an item of mine should be coming soon to help even the odds”, he smirked. Izayoi made a mental note to ask him about that later.
“With Yuma being gone for so long the area is most likely losing its stability. We are not sure how many of the common are left alive but if so we must rescue them at all cost. Lord Tsukuyomaru, I would like you to stay here and protect the castle. This is still the main hub of operation and where most of the refugees are staying”.
“I will protect them, you have my world my lady”, he said nodding his head.
“Good we leave in four days from now. Takemaru ready the men and march when day breaks. We will leave two days ahead of you to get the plan in motion and make sure our attacks are perfect. Meeting adjourned”, Izayoi got up from her seat and made her way out of the room.
“I should probably check on our food reserves since we are taking in an influx of people”, she thought.
“My lady wait”, came a voice behind her. She turned and looked to see Takemaru coming to deal before her, his head bowed respectfully.
“What is it, Takemaru?”
“My lady forgive my words but I ask humbly as you if trusting demons is the right choice”, his voice held a quiet storm of frustration and anger.
“Takemaru, did you swear fealty to my family as a samurai?”
“Yes my lady”, he said immediately.
“Did you swear to follow our orders as your masters?”
“Yes my lady without question!”
“Then why do you question me, your master’s decisions now?”, she said as her eyes narrowed on to him.
“Forgive me my lady, I only wish to voice my concern”, he bowed even deeper.
“Why should this be a concern I must hear”, she said quizzically.
“Because demons are dangerous and untrustworthy, my lady. They will strike us when we least expect or even bring harm to you or family. Having them work so close to us could be a detriment to our cause”, he spewed with eere. Izayoi to his words and nearly grimaced at the hatred he spilled from his lips.
“I wonder how he would act if he knew some of the Konoe were demons and half demons”, she thought.
“Your argument has a fatal flaw in it, Takemaru of Setsuna, and that is humans are just as dangerous and untrustworthy”, she said plainly. The man before her gasped as her words lifted her lips. He quickly lifted his head to meet her gaze.
“M-m-my lady?”
“Look at our enemy now. Yes, there are demons among them but the majority of them are humans with dangerous weapons. Even in our country we have faced humans who are dangerous. Whether it’s demon, human, half-demon, people are people, and it’s best for you to remember that”, and with that she left the stunned man there letting her words sink in.
Izayoi sat on the engawa of her bed chambers looking out to her private garden. When she was hitting close to her coming of age her mother had her placed in this wing of the house. It was to make sure she “blossomed” without the watchful eyes of men. Izayoi thought it was a prison with the only positives being this garden and the fact she could train in peace.
Izayoi had always loved this garden. Her father had it filled with her favorite flowers and greenery that represented her. She always felt at peace here, even after his death.
It was a slightly windy night, the air felt cool to her ever warm skin. Everything was quiet except for the soft motions of the leaves dancing in the wind. Izayoi sat there with two bottles of sake trying to ease her nerves.
*twig snap*
She removed the cup from her lips as her gaze was still pointed straight ahead. “You're terrible at sneaking up on someone. You would have made a terrible Konoe”, she said. Touga emerged from the shadows as he walked over to her on engawa.
“Stealth wasn’t my goal, you already knew I was here”, he said, taking seat. Her eyebrows raised at his forward action.
They sat there in silence until Izayoi couldn’t take it anymore. “Do you know this part of the castle is forbidden to men? It’s also rude to enter a noble woman’s bed chamber”, she said with a huff.
“Are you kicking me out now”, he smirked. He found that small knit in her brow adorable and relished in getting under her skin.
“Well I never said I wanted company, my lord. Now leave”.
“You love giving me commands as if I’m a real dog”, he tilted his head toward her. He could smell the alcohol's effects on her.
“Dogs don’t talk and follow their master's instructions unlike someone”, she bit back, giving him a glare. Her eyes then went wide at the suggestion of her words. She quickly turned away from him, hiding the sudden blush on her face. Touga was completely unfazed by this, in fact he looked amused which irritated her even more. If his smirk got anymore wider he would start looking like his true form.
“Oh so now you’re my master”, he exclaimed in fake shock, holding his hand to his chest. If Izayoi rolled her eyes even harder they would get lost in her head.
“The least you can do is offer me a cup”, he said, holding his hand out.
Izayoi begrudgingly gave him a cup and respectfully poured him a cup. “If mother saw me now I’m not sure what she’d be more mad about, me drinking so late, a man in my private quarters, drinking alone with a man, or drinking alone in my private quarters with a handsome demon”, her mind fired off.
Touga drank the sake not fazed at all by its strength. Izayoi raised her eyebrow but otherwise didn’t say anything.
“A question has been on my mind for weeks now. Why did you decide to help us? I know most demons don’t hold any humans in favor, so why help us?”, she asked, drinking another cup.
“Would it be far-fetched to say I actually like humans? Your species tries to find meaning in your existence instead of just living, driving you to innovation. It’s quite admirable”, he said, pouring himself a drink.
“Is that why you helped my father?”
“These lands also fall under my domain whether humans like it or not. Haruto understood that and had no qualms with me.Your father was a good man and wanted the best for his people regardless if they thought him weak. He was truly honorable”, Toga said, now drinking straight from the other bottle.
“My father once told me to not think of demons as monsters, for humans can be just as monstrous as them. At that time I didn’t understand him until I was taught Roa culture and understanding the balance between humans and demons.
“Demons love to act like they are better than humans but end up squabbling over the same shit humans do. It’s completely hypocritical”, he said simply.
“True and demons can do acts of compassion and love like humans do. Half-demons are the living product of that”, she said. Izayoi looked down at her cup as she thought about the lessons her father taught her.
“It’s quite refreshing to hear another human sharing similar ideals. Many harbor ill thoughts about half demons. Humans and demons alike”, he said looking up at the stars.
“ I would rather die ignorant than spend my life being a fool”- It is a proverb in Druguki the Roain language. It means being ignorant is worse than death, and I have always stood by that. It is foolish to desmize someone for what they can’t help but be. Half demons deserve to live just as any other creature.”
“Is that why you also have half demons within your camp? Izayoi gasped and looked at him, her face flushed from the alcohol.
“Oh don’t be surprised, princess even the strongest magic can’t hide from my nose”, he smiled slightly. Izayoi pouted at his words and turned her head from him. “She’s so adorable”, he thought.
“I guess you truly are a dog”, she mumbled taking a swig trying to hide her blush. Touga barked out a laugh as he caught what she said.
“Should I get on my knees and wag my tail”, he said smirking at her. Izayoi couldn’t tell if it was the alcohol or the fact he was so close to her but she couldn’t but feel shyness creeping upon her while she was with him. He constantly flirted with her openly regardless of who was around. It pains her to admit that it affects her.
“This jerk truly has no shame”, she thought. She hated that she found him charming even when he got under skin. She watched as he took another gulp from the bottle not even wincing at the string liquid. She couldn't help but think about her discussion with Yuri back in the entertainment district.
FLASHBACK
Izayoi sat against the wall as she settled in the inn for the night. They had just arrived at Minami and quickly took up their positions in the inns. Tsuki and Kaoi were with her, stationed in different positions. A soft knock came at her room door.
“My lady it is me”, came Yuri’s voice.
“Enter”.
Yuki came into her room also in her disguise as a man. She has been gathering more information from the shadows.
“Anything to report?”
“Lord Nobonaru will be arriving here tomorrow and has requested new girls to come to his room when he arrives. He doesn’t like to be disturbed when he is with them so that will be the perfect time to strike”.
“Mmm good work. Go get some rest”, Izayoi said, nodding at her. Yuri looked at her as if something else was on her mind.
“Is something wrong Yuri?”
“Forgive me for my boldness but why did the Inu no Taisho come with us? This mission is completely stealth and he is…..hard to miss”.
“He wanted to come so I let him. He’s quite hard to figure out honestly”, Izayoi said looking away. Yuri looked at her lady tilting her head. “So that’s how it is”, she thought.
“Are you going to take him as a concubine?”, she was blunt. Izayoi completely deadpanned, being completely caught off guard at her question.
“WHAT”, she nearly shrieked. Yuri didn’t even blink at her outburst and looked as if she was asking her about the weather.
“Well you are a daimyo and he seems like he favors you. I doubt if you gave him the proposition he would turn you down. He even flirts with you in front of us, everyone has been talking about it”, she said, staring at her as if she grew a second head.
“I-I-I have NO NEED for a concubine let alone one that’s a demon lord”, she stuttered out. Her face was completely red as she couldn’t believe what she was hearing. “What the hell is she talking about? Me and the Inu No Taisho? What?”, she thought.
“He looks at you when you aren’t looking, you know? But not in the same way the other lords do. It’s not of lust or disgust, he looks at you with wonder and curiosity”.
Izayoi's eyebrow raised at that, “I’m not that interesting especially to a demon lord”.
“We all know demons are more free than humans in almost every regard. All I say is to think about it. You deserve to have fun my lady, most women never have such freedoms”. With that Yuri left the room with a stunned Izayoi sitting there.
“Fun?? At a time like this. She must have gone crazy”, she thought, trying to dismiss her words. Her head fell back on to the wall as her mind couldn’t help but go back to said lord.
It would be a lie to say he didn’t intrigue her as well. Ever since she met him she’s been trying to figure him out to no avail. He’s been patient, attentive and cooperative with the alliance and hasn’t asked anything from her. In fact he’s more than willing to help her, which she can’t understand. It’s clear he’s powerful and by all means has a higher rank than her, on top of being a man, yet he still follows her orders.
It’s also true that he flirts with her gently which she begrudgingly can’t say she hates. It’s even more annoying that she does find him attractive. “Asking a man like that to be a concubine let alone mine is truly asinine”, she said shaking her head.
“ You deserve to have fun my lady, most women never had such freedoms”.
Yuri wasn’t wrong in that regard. Izayoi sits at a very unique spot in society. Not only is she the daughter of a daimyo but she was taught how to fight and was made a true born heir, regardless of her being a woman. This has never happened before which is why she’s having either forced allegiance or outright defiance. She’s the most free human woman and yet she is still so trapped. Her duty was always to her family even if she had grown up as a traditional princess like her mother wanted.
To Izayoi happiness was always meant to be an illusion. Her mother tried to force her to think marriage was she needed to be “happy”, regardless of what Izayoi wanted for herself.
“This isn’t about what you want, girl. You have a duty to your family even your father with his silly riddles knows that. You must marry to keep the family strong. You will eventually find happiness”.
“Like you did with father”, Izayoi bit back. Her eyes blazed with anger as her cheek still stung from her mother's slap. Her mother looked at her and sighed as she wasn’t even worthy of yelling at more.
“Your-your father and I were different. I didn’t want to be married and it wasn't love at first sight but it grew to be something as time passed. It could be the same for you, if not you will have that happiness with your children”.
The words of her have haunted her ever since. She constantly turned down marriage offers because she didn’t want to become her mother. Izayoi wanted a choice and not to become the shadow of her husband like so many women were forced to be. The thought made her sick.
She was taught the pleasures of the flesh since it was standard for a noble to know how to please her husband, but it was rare to hear anything about pleasing a woman. You had women of the night and bed wenches in inns that conducted coupling for money but those acts as women were seen as shameful in their society. It wasn’t until she learned more about her Roa heritage that she became more sure of herself.
Roa women always had a choice and weren’t the back seat of society. They had complete liberation and control over themselves and how they move in society. They took their own pleasures with anything. The Konoe taught her how to be a woman, especially a woman in this society more than her own mother.
“A concubine huh”, she said.
END FLASHBACK
Izayoi took one final swig of the jug as she could feel the effects of the alcohol wearing off. She turned her head to the demon lord, tiling her head slightly. Her eyes roamed over his gorgeous faces and stopped at his lips as they wrapped as they parted for him to take another drink.
“Inu Taisho-sama”, she whispered. Touga put the drink down and turned towards her. His eyes widened slightly as he could smell her scent spiked just now. It has become more and more difficult to ignore her scent as he spends more time in her presence.
“There is no need for such formalities. Call me Touga”, he said gently. Her heart quicked at the gesture as she nodded her head. Touga rewarded her with that gorgeous smile. “It’s not or never”, she said.
“You said a few ago that most demons don’t marry and that the mother of your son isn’t your wife”.
Touga curled an eyebrow at her words but nodded. “Yes that’s true, we aren’t bound to each other in any way”.
“Is it rude to ask if she’s your lover”, she blurted out. Her face was completely flushed as she stared at him fully. Touga's eyes widened at her words, completely taken back by them.
“Oh- no she and I have never had such a relationship. We had my son because I needed an heir and she was willing to provide me with someone. There might not be love but we understand each other”, he said honestly.
“Do you have any other lovers?” Izayoi could feel herself becoming more and more embarrassed as this conversation dragged on.
“Uh- no why do you-“
“You want to lay with me?”
Notes:
DON DON DAAAAAA. See you in the next chapter 🤭
Chapter 12: I want you!
Summary:
Something has been plaguing Izayoi's mind.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Chapter 11
Toga blinked a few times before his brain registered what she just asked. Her cheeks were still flushed and he could hear her heart thumping in her chest.
“What?”
Izayoi huffed, feeling her level of frustration rising from the brazen look on his face. “You want to lay with me?”, she repeated.
She almost laughed at the way his eyes bulged out of his head. It was as if he saw the moon fall out of the sky.
“Milady I think you have had enough to drink '', he said, reaching for the bottle next to her. Izayoi curled an eyebrow at him and grabbed his hand. Toga nearly yelped at her sudden touch.
Her hands were warm and much smaller than his. He could feel the slight callous built on them, completely out of the ordinary for a princess. It showed years of her honing her skills as a warrior.
“Sake only has a limited effect on me, my lord. That question was asked in my complete right mind. Do you want to lay with me?”, her voice became more stern as she stressed her question again.
“Are you giving me a proposition?”, he asked as he stared into her eyes. He could feel his will beating down on him as her scent swirled around them. She began to study every inch of him. His breath was slightly more shallow and his eyes were zeroed in on her mouth.
“So I do have an effect on him”, Izayoi smirked at this. “I like men who follow commands and don't give you lip about it”.
“So you do you want me to get on my knees and beg”, he said leaning closer to her. Izayoi couldn’t say anything as her blush widened on her face. Now it was toga’s turn to catch her off guard.
“Don’t go silent on me now my lady”, he brought a clawed hand to tuff some of her hair behind her head. His touch was gentle despite those close so close to her vital spots.
“Don’t toy with me my lord”, she huffed out. Her eyes nearing his in defiance. Her scent had become even sweeter and more intoxicating. Toga was at his wits end and was about to pounce on her.
“Toga, call me toga”, he whispered softly.
“Toga”, she said slowly. His name sounded so sinful leaving her mouth. He wanted to hear her scream his name in pleasure over and over again.
He leaned in and captured her lips with his own. Izayoi shared her first kiss with the demon lord. Even with her boldness Izayoi was still inexperienced so she drew back and let toga lead her. He tilted his head slightly and he slipped his right hand to the back of her neck.
His hand traveled up into her dark tresses, using his claws to gently scrub her scalp. Izayoi let out a soft moan in kiss , feeling herself melt into his touch. His mouth moved expertly against hers as the kiss got more heated. He used his tongue to slightly lick at her entrance which caused her to open her mouth to let him in.
His tongues danced over her, leading her with his better experience. Izayoi tried to control her breathing as she felt her body come alive. She slightly rubbed her legs together as she could feel a needy ache started to form between her legs.
They broke the kiss, her lips slightly glossy and her panting. She opened her eyes and was met with his molten amber ones. His hand moved her hair to cup her face as he pepper small kisses on her jaw.
“We should stop. We should stop”, he huffed out. Izayoi could feel his sinful lips ghosting over her mouth as his breath tickled her. Her body shivered at his closeness.
“What if…. I don’t want you to stop”, she whispered. Her breath came out in shallow pants as she felt her blood rush to her head. She brought his hand to cup her chest through her sleep kimono.
Toga groaned at her tempting invitation but steeled his nerves and held his composure. “We need to stop because if we don’t— toga moved to come closer to her ear again— we won’t stop until morning and you're nothing but a sloppy mess underneath me”, he groaned. Izayoi’s eyes rolled to the back of her head and the sound of those words. She let out a whine as he pulled his hand from her plump chest.
“Lady Izayoi”
The warmth of his hand, set her blood on fire as she fell deeper into his touch.
“Lady Izayoi”
“I want you Toga”, she moaned.
“Izayoi!”
“EH”, Izayoi blinked furiously as she heard toga call her name. Her vision was slightly blurry from the alcohol as she saw toga’s face plastered with worry. His hand rested on her warm cheek as she came back to earth.
“Yes m-my lord”, she asked as her face burned with embarrassment.
“I was asking if you're alright. You got quiet there”, he replied.
“Y-yes-yes I’m ok. Actually I think I’m going to retire for the night. I feel the alcohol might have been too much for me”, she said.
“I can’t believe I just day-dreamed that! It felt so real”, she screamed in her head. She got up from the engawa. She could feel her self getting a headache from all this confusion. Toga followed suit, bewildered by her sudden behavior. Her scent has spiked again, filling the air with its sweetness. Her heart was also beating rapidly.
“Well then good night my lady”, he nodded towards her. He gave her one last look before taking to the skies. Izayoi watched him fly off, her breath shallow as she felt her heart race in her chest. She shook her head and made her way to her futon, in hopes of sleeping off her drunken dreams.
"Dammit I went over board tonight. I'm even sure if our conversation really happened or if I dreamt that", she sighed. She stared up at the ceiling as she thought back on her dreams.
“Toga, call me toga”, he whispered softly.
She turned to the side and closed her eyes trying to soothe her nerves from tonight. Her body slowly relaxed as slumber took over.
DREAM
Izayoi snuggled in her bed feeling relaxed for the first time in months. Her hair spread out loosely behind her as she enjoyed the quietness of the night.
“Izayoi”, a deep voice came.
It felt so close to her ear but she tried to ignore it in hopes of continuing her slumber. She snuggled again into the futon until she felt even warmer than before.
“I know you hear me, my love”, the voice chuckled back.
Izayoi could feel clawed hands caressing her curves from behind. She could feel lips travel on her neck, and a tongue licking her ear. She opened her eyes to see she was still in her room but the lantern wasn’t blown out yet.
“Mmm so now you’re awake”, the deep but familiar voice said. She turned her head and gasped. There under her covers was a shirtless Toga, draped behind her as if it was the norm. His hair wasn’t in his usual braid but cascading freely behind his ears.
“L-l-lord Toga!”, she screamed. Her eyes wide at the state they’re in.
“Shh my love the night is still young. We don’t want to wake anyone”, he said, hushing her. She still gaped at him like a fish out of water.
“Why are you in my chambers?”, she stressed at him. He curled a brow as if she was asking a ridiculous question. He then smiled and gave her a peck on the lips.
“You’re so playful when you want to be”, he smiled. Izayoi was flabbergasted as she tried to think through this syringe predicament. Toga's hands started caressing her body causing her to moan out instantly.
“Now my love you can’t be too loud this time”, he said, kissing her fully. Izayoi couldn’t help but melt into this kiss as he expertly made her undone. “Toga!”, she softly moaned into the kiss. Her hands went to his shoulders as she steadied herself from his touch.
She gasped as his hands plugged underneath her sleeping kimono hiking up her leg as his fingers found her pearl. “M-m-my lord! WAIT!”, she gasped.
The sinful demon did hear her as he continued to get her undone. His fingers moved expertly over her pear as she could feel herself getting wet. Toga continued to nip at her jaw and she closed her eyes at the feeling. “Is this a dream”, she thought as his fingers plunged inside of her.
“You drive me mad woman”, he whispered as he brought her right breast in his mouth. His other hand kneaded her other breast as her nipples hardened at the feeling. The sweet smell of her arousal filled the air along with the devilish sounds of her sloppy wet cunt.
“Ah ah, oh ooooooh”, she moaned. The combination of his mouth at her breast and his fingers she felt, so overwhelmed with pleasure. Toga peered up at her face as his mouth still worked at her breast.
“Do you want me to stop Izayoi?”, he smirked at her. His fingers stilled at his taunting words. She let out a whine of protest, and she wiggled for him to continue.
He chuckled, and positioned his face between her legs. He took in a deep inhale groaning in delight. “Tell me what you want, so I can end both our suffering”, he growled at her.
She looked at the demon before her. His face inches away from her sex, his eyes filled with his want for her. He turned to her left thigh and gave it a lick. He moved his mouth over her sex and hovered there, his eyes peered back up to her. “Tell me what you want Izayoi”, he groaned.
Her mind went blank as she moaned out, “Please I want you”.
Izayo gasped as she opened her eyes. She was dripping in sweat as her heart was thumping in her chest. Izayoi looked around her room and saw the run rays peeking through her door.
“It’s morning?” , she whispered. Her head was splitting as the previous night came crashing down. "Grrg I can't believe I made a fool of myself like that", she groaned. a soft blush peppered over her cheeks. She looked down at her disheveled body reining the steamy dreams she's been having in the past twenty-four hours.
“What the fuck is wrong with me?”she said breathlessly , biting her lip.
“You drive me mad woman”
Izayoi frowned deeply as her face felt hot again from the memory.
"That cheeky bastard even in my dreams he is annoys. I'M THE ONE GOING MAD!"
Notes:
Sorry this is a short chapter but I will be working on my other stories. See you next time ;D
Chapter 13: My princess
Summary:
The battle will soon begin, but first............
Notes:
Hello I'm back!! I was working on my other stories and had some writers block with this one. Don't worry I wanted this chapter to be long and special.
Chapter Text
Chapter 12
Toga sat atop of the trees outside of the castle compound. The gates were open with samurai, villagers and castle workers alike moving about. The troops leave for Kumamoto tomorrow, hoping to deal the first strike. The Konoe in the south have been sending crows to update the party on the movements of the enemy.
Toga's eyes traveled over to the courtyard of the castle where he saw the person, who has taken over his mind since he came to Fukuoka. There she stood with her trusted advisor Yuri. He could hear them talking about battle strategies as she instructed the people around her. The sun shunned perfectly on her beautiful face as the wind picked up her scent. He inhaled deeply as her scent permeated the air.
The past couple of days toga has noticed lady Izayoi has been acting quite strange. Since the preparation of the big battle has been well underway she has bussed herself or so he thought. Whenever he was around she actively avoided him. She would turn from him, or leave before he could have a word. Yuri was the one that updated him on the mission instead of her. He racked his brain to remember if he had offended her but nothing came to mind. It was utterly puzzling.
“Was it our kiss or her proposition?” Izayoi wasn’t dreaming as she thought she was when she had asked that question. In the moment he had thought the alcohol had gone to his head when he heard her question. But the serious look in her eye told him otherwise. In her daze and drifting between sobriety and tipsiness, Izayoi did ask him if he wanted to lay with her. And that kiss was as real as him. Even now he can still feel her soft lips against his own.
He looked down at his hand and flexed it. His heart nearly stopped when she brought his hand to her chest. It took everything in his power to not to pounce on her. In the absence of her presence he had also taken on dealing with these growing feelings he had for her. They have known each other for less than a month and yet he was drawn to her. Her fire, bravery, intelligence, stubbornness, beauty have all but taken over his mind. His inner demon was deeply attached to her, even to the point of wanting to make her his mate. He quickly came to the conclusion : He wanted her and he wanted her to want him as well.
“Aren’t you going to say anything to lady Izayoi or do you prefer to stare from afar?”, came Tsukuyomaru. Toga had sensed him approaching him earlier. That bat demon hovered over him, flapping his massive wings. “Tsk, it would seem that is all I can do now”, he grumbled. The bat demon has only been here for a few days and even he has seen the change in atmosphere around the two.
“It is wise not to leave on such sour terms. It could affect you both in battle”, came the bag demon. Toga hated to admit it but he was right. Though he knew Izayoi had no problem handling herself in battle he still didn’t feel right going when it seems they are at odds. “To hell with it”, Toga signed, jumping down from the tree. He was about to head into the castle when a familiar scent caught his nose.
“Moooooo”
Toga looked up and saw Tōtōsai descending upon him. He smiled as he greeted the old blacksmith. “Well if it isn't my old friend”, he bellowed.
“Master”, the old man bowed. He still sat about his three eyed cow. “I take it, is it ready?” All the blacksmith did was pull out the sword and throw it his way. Toga caught it with ease, feeling the power of the hidden blade take to his yoki immediately.
“A sword to feel a hundred foes. A worthy weapon my lord”, Tōtōsai said. The demon lord unsheathed just as Tsukuyomaru flew to the ground. The blade transformed into a mighty fang shining in the sunlight.
“Astonishing”, came the bat demon. The sword was heavy but balanced well in his hand. It felt like an extension of him and not a curse like Sounga. Toga hasn’t seen the blacksmith this pleased with a product in a while.
“You have outdone yourself again Tōtōsai”, toga said bowing at him. Tōtōsai bristles at the formalities with a blush on his face. Toga sheathed the sword and attached her to his hip.
“Such a mighty blade needs a name my lord”, Tōtōsai said. Toga smirked and turned to him.
“Tetsusaiga”
Izayoi has done her best avoiding the Inu no Taisho, since their faithful night. Every time she saw him flashes of her dreams would glide over her mind, sending shivers down her spine. It was so bad Yuri would sometimes ask her if she was cold, an impossible notion.
Her blood felt more alive than before. She couldn’t help but touch herself to sedate her burning need. She wanted to feel him ravish her body and take over and over again.
“Dammit I can’t think like this”, she thought. She shook her head trying to purge the lustful thought by the handsome demon. Tomorrow was too crucial for her mind to be elsewhere. She had sent Yuri off to make sure the send off ceremony was ready tomorrow. She was about to travel to her quarters when Takemaru approached her.
“Everything is ready my lady”, Takemaru said. He was fixed in his new armor. “Good, have the men get some rest and eat”. Takemaru bowed and left her again.
Izayoi quickly walked towards her room, trying to keep her mind at bay. Tomorrow will set a big blow for the Mongols and help drive them off the land. She sent Yuri to prepare the Konoe for a predicted collusion with the demons. She took off her outer kimono layers feeling the fabrics weight leave her shoulders.
She felt ashamed of her actions with lord Toga. Thinking such lewd thoughts about him while also avoiding the demon. It wasn’t his fault that she couldn’t control herself. The demon has been nothing but help and cooperative with her since their meeting. And all she has given him was mixed emotions and vitriol. “He isn’t the subject of your eerie”, she sighed. She went up to her basin and splashed her face with cool water.
Izayoi had thought these lustful thoughts and tempered long ago. Being raised to be a poised princess while also preparing for the heavy burden her father had left her stagnant in the bases for her own wants. Her needs were meant to be put aside for her people. Whenever the Konoe would walk freely and enjoy their base desire she felt a pang of jealousy. Love and lust burned deep in her but she knew she could never act on it. Her path was one of duty and sacrifice. Even with the title of Daimyo she still couldn’t truly act like a man. She was forever locked away in this prison.
“My lady, can I have a word with you?”. She didn’t sense him and jumped slightly when she heard his voice. She looked over and saw him standing at her engawa. He wasn’t wearing his armor but he still had his sword on his back and looks to be a new one on his hip. His big pelt enveloped his body making him look majestic. He is just as handsome as the day she first laid her eyes on him. She could feel a blush creeping to her face as her dreams seeped into her mind again.
“You have taken to making a habit of intruding on me”, she sighed clutching her chest. She turned from him to hide her blush.
“Is that why you ignore me now”, he questioned. He could smell the slight shift in the air as her arousal creeped in. He took a deep breath, trying his best to stay calm. Izayoi wiped her head around at his accusation. All she could do was stare at him caught off by the look of hurt on his face.
“Have I offended you my lady?”, he said, stepping into her room. He walked towards her slowly almost like he had finally trapped his prey.
“No you haven’t my lord”, she said quietly. She turned her gaze from him again, but was stopped by his hand. He cupped her face gently as he gazed upon her.
“Is it because of our kiss the other night”, his eyes fell upon her lips causing her to lick them. Wait? Kiss? “What is he talking about?”, she thought.
“What are you talking about my lord?”, she exclaimed. She tried to break free from his gaze but couldn’t. His hold on her was gentle but still firm. She could feel herself melt into his touch.
“You have forgotten already. And here I thought I wasn’t the only one affected by it. You really know how to hurt a man’s pride woman”, he pouted. Before she could retort she felt his lips on hers. She gasped into the kiss causing him to dip his tongue into her mouth. His hand snaked around her waist pulling her body into his. She could feel his hard chest against her breast as her heart leaped. Her hands came to grasp at the top part of his pelt. The fur was soft to the touch as were his lips.
Toga tongue expertly took over her as she submitted to his touch. His hand came to cup the back of her head, grasping at his luscious hair. He walked her back towards the wall, hitting it with a thump, but neither paid any mind. Her hands moved from his pelt to his neck holding on to him for dear life. She moaned as he sucked on her lip then broke apart from her.
“Mononoke! You continue to take liberties with me”, she panted out. Toga smirked at her feisty retort, loving that she hadn’t pushed him away.
“I am a beast, and yet you have managed to tame me princess”, he said, kissing her again. Izayoi kissed him back but pushed at his chest to tell him to stop. He broke the kiss to look at her strangely.
“My lord that night…. it wasn’t a dream?” Her eyes drifted up to his molten ones. She could get lost in looking at him.
He smirked and shook his head. “You asking me if I would like to lay with did catch me off guard”. His teasing caused her to throw her head into his chest to hide her shame. Toga let out a deep laugh that she felt vibrate through his chest.
Her face was completely on fire from embarrassment. She couldn’t believe she would say something so scandalous. “Then why didn’t you?” Izayoi asked.
“You were drunk and least not in your right mind. I would truly be a monster if I took liberties with you then”. He leaned her back against the wall again and whispered in her ear, “I know you are a maiden and your first touch should be one you can fully remember”.
Izayoi could feel her maiden head pulsating between her legs as her mouth went dry. She wanted him and she didn’t care anymore to hide it. Let this be the one thing she can be selfish with.
“My lord-“.
“Mm, I've told you to call me Toga, my lady. It brings me great joy to hear you say my name”, he whispered.
“Toga please take me”, she moaned.
It was like a dam had broken inside Touga as he quickly cupped her face and kissed her. Izyaoi’s hands were all over his body, grasping at whatever she could find. Toga's mouth hunted hers, playing with her, teasing her, devouring her! His arm wrapped around her waist dragging her close to him. His hand pushed open the bottom of her layered kimono and hosted her leg up. His claws tickled the soft skin of her inner thigh sending a gasp tumbling out of her mouth.
He moved his lips to her neck as he sucked and kissed at the junction of her jaw. Izayoi removed her hands from his body and pulled down the top of her kimono to show her beautiful breasts. The cool afternoon air pebbled her nipples and they heaved from her laboring breaths. Toga let go of her leg and took a strap back from her. He plastered a sinful smirk on her face which caused her to pout at him. “Patience my princess”, his deep voice echoed towards her.
Toga pulled his hands up and untied his hair from his ponytail, letting it fall beautifully behind him. He willed his massive pelt off him, floating gently towards her bed. He removed his swords and prompted them off to the side. He stalked towards her again and gently brought her towards his body again. He moved them down to the ground, drawing her into his lap. They never broke eye contact as he took her left breast into his mouth.
He kneaded her soft flesh, his tongue swirled around her nipple sucking and biting at. Izayoi let out a breathy moan, closing her eyes at the feeling of his wet mouth. Her hands scooted under his haori, traveling down his shoulders to his broad back. She moved her hands back up to his shoulders and began pulling the fabric off him. He released her nipple, leaving a trail of saliva in his wake. He let her remove his haori, with much amusement, watching her eyes roam over his body. Her hands came up to touch his demon markings, softly tracing the outlines with her fingers. Toga shivered as her fingers ghost over the sensitive flesh.
“Your markings are beautiful. Were you born with them?”, she asked in a hushed whisper. Toga brought her hand to his mouth and kissed her fingers.
“You flatter me, my dear. Yes, though some are developed with age. The ones on my face appeared when I started to hit maturity”, he explained.
“I meant it, it adds to your face”, she confessed. This caused Toga to laugh which led to her body shaking slightly.
“And what of your markings my lady?” Toga brought his mouth to her waiting breast again, keeping his gaze on her. He gazed upon Izayoi’s own markings that peeked through from the tops of her shoulders and hips. Her tattoos held great pride for her. Her back was littered with vibrate pigments of flowers and Druguki script. It told the story of her mastery of fire and her powerful family.
“I must keep them hidden but they mean a great deal to me. It’s my heritage, it’s my power, it’s- ah”, her voice trailed off as she moaned. His hand grasped her other one, pinching and tweaking her nipple. Izayoi's hand went up to his hair, running her hands through his silky tresses. Toga flipped them over so he was on top, mouth still attached to her.
Izayoi’s back hit his soft fur, melting into its warmth. “It smells like him”, she thought dazzlingly. She automatically spread her legs around him, wanting him to touch her wetness. He detached his mouth from her chest which earned him a whine from her. His hands caressed her thighs, her flesh felt soft under his hand. They came up to her fundoshi and untied it. She was completely soaked and sticky. Touga felt completely drunk by her scent, her heat was about to make him lose it.
A low breathy laugh came out of him as he took her in. He put his right hand in his mouth and bit off the claws off two of his fingers. He brought his hand up and started making slowly circles around her lips. He pinched them together between his two fingers and plunged his middle finger in. “AAAAHHHH”, she moaned. She instantly fisted her hands in his fur trying to anchor herself. His finger went slowly, stretching her velvet hole, making her loose. The sloppy sounds were music to his ears. He leaned over her body, softly kissing her stomach making his way down to her pussy. His tongue came out and gave a long lick to her clit. “T-t-Touga”, she gasped. Her hand went to his hair, holding on to him as he mouth fucked her.
His mouth completely took her in as he added another finger. He nipped and sucked at her clit until it peaked. His fingers entered faster, feeling her tighten around them. “Aah fuck”, she moaned. He pushed her leg towards her chest to give him more access. He curled his fingers up more which caused her to buck against him. His tongue continued to lap at her clit, sucking the nerves into his mouth. Izayoi could feel her lower abdomen beginning to clench over and over again, sending waves of pleasure through her.
“Toga ah ah s-stop I have to go- I”, she moaned. All he did was laugh into her clit as he knew what she meant. “Fuck fuck it feels different”, she thought. Her mind was clouded as she felt a rush of pleasure go through her spine. “AAAAAAAAAAHHHHH”, her hips came off his pelt as a gush of fluid came out. Toga happily accepted her scent marking him. His eyes flash red as his inner demon was trying to surface.
“You don’t even realize how much you drive me mad princess”, his voice came out in a deep growl. He pulled at his obi and ripped off his pants. He sprung, relishing in the contrasts living his body. Izyaoi’s eye widened when she saw his size. “How the hell is that supposed to fit in me”, her mind raced. He was much larger than the human members she’s seen. She figured that demons due to their varying sizing would also have different size “instruments”. She’s rarely seen one hard, they were usually shriveled up and not even half the size he was.
Toga hovered over her and lined himself up at her entrance, rubbing her cock over her wetness. ”Fuck she was slick”, his cock was drench in her juices. Izayoi hissed at the friction, she started wiggling her hips to feel more. “Take a deep breath”, he whispered. Izayoi did as he said and felt a sharp pain run through her. “ARGGH”, she quickly grasps his shoulders digging her nails into them. Toga didn’t move at all, as he waited for her to settle. He was trying to stay focused but he wasn’t fully prepared at how tight she felt. “FUCK”, he thought trying to catch his breath. He wasn’t sure how he was still sane. Both their scents mixed together beautifully, has he tried to not let his lust take over him.
“Fuck it hurts”, she muttered. She leaned back into his fur, feeling her core burn with the intrusion. Toga leaned over and kissed her slowly, trying to convey his feelings in it. He slowly moved his hips, drawing out of her and entering slowly again. “Izayoi look at me”, he said. Izayoi opened her eyes to look at him, trying to anchor herself. “Just breathe, it will start to feel good soon”, he soothed her. He leaned back on his ankles, grabbing the back of her thighs and continued his slow pace. He rolled his hips into hers earning him a deep moan from her. Her hand gripped his furs again as they subsided and turned into a deep pleasure.
“Ah ah ah faster”, she moaned. Toga started picking up his pace, snapping his hips causing her to cry out. He hissed as he felt her velvet hole tighten, trapping him in her warmth. He picked up the pace again, each trust causing her body to jolt with pleasure. Her moans and sloppy sounds of their couple filled the room. Izayoi looked down watching his cock disappear into her over and over again. Her body felt warmer than usual, with soft flames erupting at her fingertips. The tales the men would say, whispered of women didn’t live up to this. She’s never felt this way before. Not even when she pleasures herself. His cock was reaching unknown spots, her core was so tight she felt like she was going to explode.
“ MARK HER !”
His demon screamed at him, feeling his lust rush forward. He looked down at her sweat covered, her sweet breast jiggled with each trust. Her eyes were cloudy with pleasure, drool tickling down her chin. He pinched her nipple, tweaking it between his claws. This causes another myriad of moans to fall out of her mouth.
“T-T-Toga”, she stammered. Toga grabbed both her legs and pushed them back so they lined up with her shoulders. The new position caused him to go even deeper inside her. Her juices were spilling everywhere, his balls slapped against her pussy in such a perverted way. He watched as his cock stretched her pink pussy, feeling the deep suction. He pulled out slowly and thrusted hard, rocking her body.
“ MAKE HER OURS ”.
His finger went down to her clit, and started rubbing her throbbing pussy. Her whines came out faster as her pleasure began to spill over. “Release my princess”, he groaned. “AAAAAHHH Toga”. She couldn’t hold it anymore, her body seized up again and another splash of juices rushed out of her. Her tight cunt caused Toga's thrust to falter but he continued as she rode out her orgasam. Toga thrusted into her a couple more times, but then pulled out quickly as he felt himself coming. “Ah fuck!” He pumped his cock in his hand, watching his seed spill out over her chest and belly. He rolled off to the side, his back hitting his fur.
She laid there trying to catch her breath. Her body felt amazing but numb. All of her energy was gone as the room slowly came back into focus. “So that was the pleasures of the flesh”, her breath was labored as the room spined. “Are well?”, he asked. She gave a faint nod, feeling her eyes began to droop as she tried to fight to her exhaustion. Her body moved slightly as she saw Toga's fur wrapped around her.
“Sleep well my princess”, his soothing voice came. She felt a kiss on her brow as she drifted off to slumber.
This was dope (Guest) on Chapter 3 Thu 05 Oct 2023 12:58PM UTC
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Purpleanimegoddess on Chapter 3 Sat 04 Nov 2023 07:13PM UTC
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JustAnotherWannabeWriter0205 on Chapter 4 Thu 02 Nov 2023 10:11PM UTC
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Purpleanimegoddess on Chapter 4 Sat 04 Nov 2023 07:13PM UTC
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JustAnotherWannabeWriter0205 on Chapter 4 Sun 05 Nov 2023 07:35PM UTC
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JustAnotherWannabeWriter0205 on Chapter 10 Wed 14 Feb 2024 12:12AM UTC
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