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alias_sqbrMasterlist and guide
Just as I was feeling hard done by about Kaede/Sogo not having a full romance path, along comes an event where they get a romance story :D
This makes the very odd choice to start with a moderately shippy plot involving Kaede and another love interest, Sasuke, in which MC doesn't show up at all?? While I'd have never picked Sasuke/Kaede as something to ship, it was pretty cute, and I'm enough of a multi-shipper to roll with it. And there was nothing to indicate they're canonically into each other. But it was still surreal.
Anyway, the MC/Kaede(/Sogo) part after that was SUPER cute. I don't know how much of my enjoyment is just gender euphoria from a story which respects a multigender character's identity and goes on about how they're HOT and AWESOME, but I certainly had fun.
I'm following Kaede/Sogo's pronouns as used in the text.
Homescreen: Kaede saying "I don't remember marrying you" ??? :D :D
I don't think this is a repeat of the fake marriage story I already saw on Youtube, but if it is then at least I'll get the epilogue.
This event divides everyone into pairs. Kaede is paired with Sasuke, who is decent enough as a person but find pretty unappealing as a LI.
BLUH SASUKE POV
Anyway. He's gathering information and notices "that Mitsuba ninja", Kaede, so watches her from a distance. (Mitsuba is Kaede and MC's village)
Kaede POV! She just re-united a girl with her mother.
Sasuke: Hello :)
Kaede: Goodbye :)
Sasuke: What's so bad about chatting with me for a bit?
Kaede: It's clear we're both here on business. Isn't it easier if we stay out of each other's way?
Sasuke: You have a point. But I would like your help with something.
As Sasuke strides off, Kaede sighs to herself "I guess we're doing this, then".
"A large crowd has gathered. Among them are countless couples, cosily entwined."
...Sasuke did you take Kaede to some sort of sex festival...
Townsperson: Are you two here for the marriage festival? If so line up over there.
Sasuke: Thanks, we will!
I DID NOT SIGN UP FOR SASUKE/KAEDE FAKE DATING
(ok, that could be kinda cute. But surely not where the game is actually going?)
Kaede: I don't remember marrying you. I have other things to do >:/
Sasuke explains that there's a prize for being the most compatible couple, and says that if she helps he'll give her useful intel.
Kaede sighs and takes his arm. How far...is this going to go...
Kaede: Don't get your hopes up.
Sasuke: You're a ninja, acting is second nature. You'll be fine.
Kaede: You know, you're not supposed to go around asking random unmarried women to pretend to be your wife :/
Sasuke: Haha, true, but I had every faith you'd forgive that bit of cheekiness ;)
Aw, Sasuke reassures Kaede that kissing is against the rules and that he won't make her do anything she's uncomfortable with. The main goal is to play the perfect married couple.
Kaede: I think I know what that looks like...
Sasuke: I knew I could rely on you, sweetheart ;)
Kaede: >:( ...yes darling ^_^
They are snuggly and affectionate onstage, and win!
Sasuke: It's a fantastic honour. But there's not a woman in the world that can compare to you.
Kaede: Oh, stop, you're embarrassing me, lover *blush*
I have an unfortunate suspicion that this is supposed to be funny in a "lol they're both guys" way.
...or not?
Kaede: Are we done now >:(
Sasuke. Yes. You've earned this :) *hands her half the prize*
Kaede: I've always thought you were a bit of an eccentric. It was hard work keeping up with you today, but I had fun.
And then they go their separate ways.
Kaede mutters to herself "And here I thought he knew the other side to me. Oh well, no need to press the issue now. Really, though, a marriage festival? I'd rather play the husband next time."
And then it's path choice??
That was just...a cute Sasuke/Kaede side story with no MC in it at all??
Ok, game, I will forgive you for the "pick Kaede" option being labelled "Join Him" since it's clearly a default UI element. It also asks me to pick a "Lord" when they're all ninjas.
MC POV. She's worried that Kaede is coming home so late, and happy when she finally arrives, unharmed.
Kaede: Oh. I'd have turned him down if I'd known it would cause you concern...at any rate, I am sorry. A lot happened, but nothing worth mentioning.
MC: All that matters is that you're alright.
They smile at each other affectionately, and then Kaede takes MC's hand.
Ah, they're together! I bet Kaede was thinking of MC when she snuggled Sasuke.
Kaede whispers in Sogo's voice that noone will think anything of them holding hands, like they did as children.
"It's been a year now since the woman I've always looked up to and been attracted to revealed this other side of herself. After a few twists and turns, we fell in love. The one who holds my heart is both a woman called Kaede and a man called Sogo."
Kaede invites MC to her house "for some tea to warm her up", afaict MC expects her to change into Sogo's clothes but instead she gently pulls MC close.
"I'm like a bee in the nectar of her flower. The second that fragrance hits my nose, I'm done for."
Kaede changes to Sogo.
This story is a GIFT.
Sogo: You'll make me feel shy if you keep ogling me like that >:/ But then you make me want to hold you and never let you go.
MC: The feeling's mutual.
"There's a magic to him. It's so strange. Kissing and holding Sogo is completely different from being with Kaede, somehow. He makes me feel safe and like I'm standing on a precipice all at once; all thrills. She's comfort and softness; a true home. I love it, but it's overwhelming."
Well, that's a bit heteronormative, but I do like that it's clear that even if the game will plausibly avoid showing any Kaede/MC kisses they do happen off-screen.
MC and Kaede are hanging out in their favourite scenic spot when MC asks if she'd like to go on a date in town. Secretly, MC wants to get an anniversary gift.
MC feels a little sad that she and Kaede can't be very publicly affectionate. "Even if she's in her female guise, we're still lovers. Nothing can change how I feel."
And indeed, he comes as Sogo, since it gives more chances to cuddle.
Kaede: Noone from the village is likely to see us out this far.
MC: They probably wouldn't recognise you anyway. Kaede and Sogo have different auras.
Kaede: Haha, you think so? But who knows: maybe rumours will spread that you have a lover ;)
MC: (That would be embarassing! But...) I'd be happy to call you my own. I bet they'd all cheer for my good fortune.
Kaede: Unfair *blush*
They go shopping but Sogo just keeps suggesting things for MC and says he doesn't need anything.
And then he hands her one of a pair of cute matching goldfish netsuke, which really sound like mobile phone charms. I wonder if that's where mobile phone charms came from. This is clearly the prize from the competition, which Sogo is vague about. And then it's never mentioned again! I thought there might be some OMG YOU FLIRTED WITH SASUKE but nope.
Sogo: Now we match! I know you've been looking for a present for me, but all I really need is to see your smile.
Kaede affectionately notices MC walking slower as they approach the village, where they'll have to stop holding hands.
MC: I want more time to hold you...don't you feel that too?
Sogo: I do. I never want to let you go. It's such a waste that we have to go home! *hug* You slay me with how cute you are >:/
MC, embarrassed: O-oh.
Sogo: I'm going to have to hold back soon, so I can be forgiven this...
And then he kisses the tip of her nose??
ADORABLE.
Epilogue:
Ok I read this at like midnight, and am too lazy to read it again, but let's see what I remember.
Sogo invites MC to stay the night, reassuring her that they won't do anything she's not ready for, and MC is internally all "ARE WE HAVING SEX NOW OH MY GOSH OK"
Sogo: We slept at each other's houses all the time as children, after all :)
MC: (Yes but now there's a higher chance of us taking off our clothes...)
I have a thing for femslash which cheerfully plays with the line between "Just Friendly Girl Stuff" and "Wait no that's a sex thing", it's interesting this context.
And then he puts out two beds and she feels silly.
They have an affectionate UST laden conversation, both feeling pretty nervous, and end up in the same bed. Sogo gives the impression he's planning something sexual only to just cuddle. MC decides two can play at that game and kisses his chest. He gets endearingly blushy then is like "Oh ho, ok then >:D", which MC is absolutely there for, and it fades to black.
That was very cute. But while they are both definitely sexually attracted to each other, it always feels like the writers make scenes with Kaede/Sogo...I'm not sure if they're less sexual, or just have a different vibe, but it's something. But for a queer LI in an otherwise het game, let alone a non-binary character, the writers do relatively well.
Sasuke Ending:
MC is worried about Sasuke coming home so late.
Umeko: Don't worry, he'd never cheat, he loves you too much!
I don't think the idea of him cheating crossed MC's mind!
He cheerfully tells MC he "came across something interesting" and got Kaede to help with "a battle of wits".
Shingen and all his retainers talk about how great MC and her medicines are, and Sasuke reminds them all that he's the one who brought her in.
Afterwards, a slightly tipsy Sasuke affectionately watches MC work.
MC: Thank you for bringing me here. I've learned what it feels like to belong.
Sasuke: You did this, not me. Your courage and pluck is what's earned your place. And it's why I fell in love with you.
The problem with Sasuke/MC is that it's very cute when they're together, but any time Yukimura shows up I'm struck by how much more I'd be into Shadow!MC/Yukimura.
Anyway. MC notices that Sasuke seems to be going out at night and planning something with mini Sasuke and Yukimura, but the other two drag her off whenever she tries to talk to Sasuke.
Just as she's at the end of her tether he invites her into town on a date.
Blacksmith: You must have been surprised, MC. Can you believe our Sasuke?
Sasuke: Oi. *whisper whisper*
MC: (Is Sasuke buying weapons for a battle? D:)
But even asked point blank he just cheerfully changes the subject, so she decides to go after easier targets.
MC: What's happening with Sasuke?
Yukimura: UM. UH. ...forgive me! *runs away*
"I creep behind little Sasuke as he's playing with his spinning top."
Mini Sasuke: I KNOW NOTHING >:(
MC tempts him with the knowledge of which of Sasuke, Yukimura and Saizo is stronger, and he wavers.
That night, MC corners Sasuke in town.
Sasuke: Who told you?
MC: I'll never tell. So what's this for, a dangerous mission? Am I that untrustworthy that you can't tell me?
He laughs and takes her to the blacksmiths, where he shows her...a complex metal hairpin, that he's been making for her himself.
He's sorry for upsetting her but she's charmed and happy.
Just as I was feeling hard done by about Kaede/Sogo not having a full romance path, along comes an event where they get a romance story :D
This makes the very odd choice to start with a moderately shippy plot involving Kaede and another love interest, Sasuke, in which MC doesn't show up at all?? While I'd have never picked Sasuke/Kaede as something to ship, it was pretty cute, and I'm enough of a multi-shipper to roll with it. And there was nothing to indicate they're canonically into each other. But it was still surreal.
Anyway, the MC/Kaede(/Sogo) part after that was SUPER cute. I don't know how much of my enjoyment is just gender euphoria from a story which respects a multigender character's identity and goes on about how they're HOT and AWESOME, but I certainly had fun.
I'm following Kaede/Sogo's pronouns as used in the text.
Homescreen: Kaede saying "I don't remember marrying you" ??? :D :D
I don't think this is a repeat of the fake marriage story I already saw on Youtube, but if it is then at least I'll get the epilogue.
This event divides everyone into pairs. Kaede is paired with Sasuke, who is decent enough as a person but find pretty unappealing as a LI.
BLUH SASUKE POV
Anyway. He's gathering information and notices "that Mitsuba ninja", Kaede, so watches her from a distance. (Mitsuba is Kaede and MC's village)
Kaede POV! She just re-united a girl with her mother.
Sasuke: Hello :)
Kaede: Goodbye :)
Sasuke: What's so bad about chatting with me for a bit?
Kaede: It's clear we're both here on business. Isn't it easier if we stay out of each other's way?
Sasuke: You have a point. But I would like your help with something.
As Sasuke strides off, Kaede sighs to herself "I guess we're doing this, then".
"A large crowd has gathered. Among them are countless couples, cosily entwined."
...Sasuke did you take Kaede to some sort of sex festival...
Townsperson: Are you two here for the marriage festival? If so line up over there.
Sasuke: Thanks, we will!
I DID NOT SIGN UP FOR SASUKE/KAEDE FAKE DATING
(ok, that could be kinda cute. But surely not where the game is actually going?)
Kaede: I don't remember marrying you. I have other things to do >:/
Sasuke explains that there's a prize for being the most compatible couple, and says that if she helps he'll give her useful intel.
Kaede sighs and takes his arm. How far...is this going to go...
Kaede: Don't get your hopes up.
Sasuke: You're a ninja, acting is second nature. You'll be fine.
Kaede: You know, you're not supposed to go around asking random unmarried women to pretend to be your wife :/
Sasuke: Haha, true, but I had every faith you'd forgive that bit of cheekiness ;)
Aw, Sasuke reassures Kaede that kissing is against the rules and that he won't make her do anything she's uncomfortable with. The main goal is to play the perfect married couple.
Kaede: I think I know what that looks like...
Sasuke: I knew I could rely on you, sweetheart ;)
Kaede: >:( ...yes darling ^_^
They are snuggly and affectionate onstage, and win!
Sasuke: It's a fantastic honour. But there's not a woman in the world that can compare to you.
Kaede: Oh, stop, you're embarrassing me, lover *blush*
I have an unfortunate suspicion that this is supposed to be funny in a "lol they're both guys" way.
...or not?
Kaede: Are we done now >:(
Sasuke. Yes. You've earned this :) *hands her half the prize*
Kaede: I've always thought you were a bit of an eccentric. It was hard work keeping up with you today, but I had fun.
And then they go their separate ways.
Kaede mutters to herself "And here I thought he knew the other side to me. Oh well, no need to press the issue now. Really, though, a marriage festival? I'd rather play the husband next time."
And then it's path choice??
That was just...a cute Sasuke/Kaede side story with no MC in it at all??
Ok, game, I will forgive you for the "pick Kaede" option being labelled "Join Him" since it's clearly a default UI element. It also asks me to pick a "Lord" when they're all ninjas.
MC POV. She's worried that Kaede is coming home so late, and happy when she finally arrives, unharmed.
Kaede: Oh. I'd have turned him down if I'd known it would cause you concern...at any rate, I am sorry. A lot happened, but nothing worth mentioning.
MC: All that matters is that you're alright.
They smile at each other affectionately, and then Kaede takes MC's hand.
Ah, they're together! I bet Kaede was thinking of MC when she snuggled Sasuke.
Kaede whispers in Sogo's voice that noone will think anything of them holding hands, like they did as children.
"It's been a year now since the woman I've always looked up to and been attracted to revealed this other side of herself. After a few twists and turns, we fell in love. The one who holds my heart is both a woman called Kaede and a man called Sogo."
Kaede invites MC to her house "for some tea to warm her up", afaict MC expects her to change into Sogo's clothes but instead she gently pulls MC close.
"I'm like a bee in the nectar of her flower. The second that fragrance hits my nose, I'm done for."
Kaede changes to Sogo.
This story is a GIFT.
Sogo: You'll make me feel shy if you keep ogling me like that >:/ But then you make me want to hold you and never let you go.
MC: The feeling's mutual.
"There's a magic to him. It's so strange. Kissing and holding Sogo is completely different from being with Kaede, somehow. He makes me feel safe and like I'm standing on a precipice all at once; all thrills. She's comfort and softness; a true home. I love it, but it's overwhelming."
Well, that's a bit heteronormative, but I do like that it's clear that even if the game will plausibly avoid showing any Kaede/MC kisses they do happen off-screen.
MC and Kaede are hanging out in their favourite scenic spot when MC asks if she'd like to go on a date in town. Secretly, MC wants to get an anniversary gift.
MC feels a little sad that she and Kaede can't be very publicly affectionate. "Even if she's in her female guise, we're still lovers. Nothing can change how I feel."
And indeed, he comes as Sogo, since it gives more chances to cuddle.
Kaede: Noone from the village is likely to see us out this far.
MC: They probably wouldn't recognise you anyway. Kaede and Sogo have different auras.
Kaede: Haha, you think so? But who knows: maybe rumours will spread that you have a lover ;)
MC: (That would be embarassing! But...) I'd be happy to call you my own. I bet they'd all cheer for my good fortune.
Kaede: Unfair *blush*
They go shopping but Sogo just keeps suggesting things for MC and says he doesn't need anything.
And then he hands her one of a pair of cute matching goldfish netsuke, which really sound like mobile phone charms. I wonder if that's where mobile phone charms came from. This is clearly the prize from the competition, which Sogo is vague about. And then it's never mentioned again! I thought there might be some OMG YOU FLIRTED WITH SASUKE but nope.
Sogo: Now we match! I know you've been looking for a present for me, but all I really need is to see your smile.
Kaede affectionately notices MC walking slower as they approach the village, where they'll have to stop holding hands.
MC: I want more time to hold you...don't you feel that too?
Sogo: I do. I never want to let you go. It's such a waste that we have to go home! *hug* You slay me with how cute you are >:/
MC, embarrassed: O-oh.
Sogo: I'm going to have to hold back soon, so I can be forgiven this...
And then he kisses the tip of her nose??
ADORABLE.
Epilogue:
Ok I read this at like midnight, and am too lazy to read it again, but let's see what I remember.
Sogo invites MC to stay the night, reassuring her that they won't do anything she's not ready for, and MC is internally all "ARE WE HAVING SEX NOW OH MY GOSH OK"
Sogo: We slept at each other's houses all the time as children, after all :)
MC: (Yes but now there's a higher chance of us taking off our clothes...)
I have a thing for femslash which cheerfully plays with the line between "Just Friendly Girl Stuff" and "Wait no that's a sex thing", it's interesting this context.
And then he puts out two beds and she feels silly.
They have an affectionate UST laden conversation, both feeling pretty nervous, and end up in the same bed. Sogo gives the impression he's planning something sexual only to just cuddle. MC decides two can play at that game and kisses his chest. He gets endearingly blushy then is like "Oh ho, ok then >:D", which MC is absolutely there for, and it fades to black.
That was very cute. But while they are both definitely sexually attracted to each other, it always feels like the writers make scenes with Kaede/Sogo...I'm not sure if they're less sexual, or just have a different vibe, but it's something. But for a queer LI in an otherwise het game, let alone a non-binary character, the writers do relatively well.
Sasuke Ending:
MC is worried about Sasuke coming home so late.
Umeko: Don't worry, he'd never cheat, he loves you too much!
I don't think the idea of him cheating crossed MC's mind!
He cheerfully tells MC he "came across something interesting" and got Kaede to help with "a battle of wits".
Shingen and all his retainers talk about how great MC and her medicines are, and Sasuke reminds them all that he's the one who brought her in.
Afterwards, a slightly tipsy Sasuke affectionately watches MC work.
MC: Thank you for bringing me here. I've learned what it feels like to belong.
Sasuke: You did this, not me. Your courage and pluck is what's earned your place. And it's why I fell in love with you.
The problem with Sasuke/MC is that it's very cute when they're together, but any time Yukimura shows up I'm struck by how much more I'd be into Shadow!MC/Yukimura.
Anyway. MC notices that Sasuke seems to be going out at night and planning something with mini Sasuke and Yukimura, but the other two drag her off whenever she tries to talk to Sasuke.
Just as she's at the end of her tether he invites her into town on a date.
Blacksmith: You must have been surprised, MC. Can you believe our Sasuke?
Sasuke: Oi. *whisper whisper*
MC: (Is Sasuke buying weapons for a battle? D:)
But even asked point blank he just cheerfully changes the subject, so she decides to go after easier targets.
MC: What's happening with Sasuke?
Yukimura: UM. UH. ...forgive me! *runs away*
"I creep behind little Sasuke as he's playing with his spinning top."
Mini Sasuke: I KNOW NOTHING >:(
MC tempts him with the knowledge of which of Sasuke, Yukimura and Saizo is stronger, and he wavers.
That night, MC corners Sasuke in town.
Sasuke: Who told you?
MC: I'll never tell. So what's this for, a dangerous mission? Am I that untrustworthy that you can't tell me?
He laughs and takes her to the blacksmiths, where he shows her...a complex metal hairpin, that he's been making for her himself.
He's sorry for upsetting her but she's charmed and happy.
no subject
Date: 2020-04-23 12:45 pm (UTC)MC feels a little sad that she and Kaede can't be very publicly affectionate.
I'm curious where the game will go with this. The game is pretty selective about how it is using period-appropriate attitudes towards romance and sexuality, and we haven't seen yet how it's going to imagine social acceptance of f/f relationships. I'd rather not see a homophobia storyline so I hope the game doesn't go that way.
no subject
Date: 2020-04-23 03:23 pm (UTC)I think Kaede and Sasuke had some shippy subtext in Sasuke's event story from last time. But Kaede/MC had much stronger subtext.
no subject
Date: 2020-04-24 07:43 am (UTC)Yeah, same. And my vague sense is that Japan in this era wasn't against f/f relationships to the extent that people would be hassled in the street anyway.