021 ♫ (video) -- filtered from Hideyoshi

[behisstrength]

[The video feed shows the inside of a small, traditional dōjō. There is the sound of Mitsuhide practicing in the background, off-screen; the corners of Motochika's mouth curl upwards ever-so-slightly, and there is intent in his gaze. His voice carries across the dōjō as he speaks.]

It is Mitsuhide's birthday in just under a week's time, on the twenty-third.

I do not doubt that he has failed to mention it to his friends. Mitsuhide is too humble to expect anyone to make fuss, as is custom here. Nor would he wish for anyone to feel obligated. Yet it has not occurred to him that those who care for him might want to celebrate with him.

[Motochika's eyes flicker away from the SFC, presumably in Mitsuhide's direction, and he smirks.]

Last year I indulged Mitsuhide's shy reserve. This year I leave the choice in your hands.

[Motochika ends the feed there, before the SFC can capture Mitsuhide's reaction.]

Comments

[video;]

[caesar]

Mitsuhide-san's birthday is coming up? I'll definitely have to get him a gift.

voice;

[behisstrength]

Excellent.

ACTION ONWARDS;

[wavesoakedlegs]

[Mitsuhide realises what Motochika is doing far too late to stop him. So instead he (almost) calmly sheaths his sword, places it to one side and then pads across the floor until he is standing over his lover.]

[One hand snakes around his own stomach.]

The choice should have been mine. [He says, looking caught between embarassment and irritation... though there is a telling thread of warmth in his gaze too.] Lord Motochika. Why was that necessary?

[behisstrength]

[Motochika tilts his head back to meet Mitsuhide's eyes, unrepentant.]

Why do you feel it necessary to hide, Mitsuhide?

[wavesoakedlegs]

It is not a case of wanting to hide.

[...is that entirely true? He's not sure himself, so he will stick to it, for now. Mitsuhide shakes his head and looks away.]

I do not wish to become the center of attention. That is all.

[behisstrength]

[Motochika reaches up to take hold of one of Mitsuhide's hands.]

It is more likely that your friends shall come to you privately, as individuals, and express their appreciation for you.

[He tugs Mitsuhide's hand.]

There is nothing to fear.

[wavesoakedlegs]

[The tug results in Mitsuhide taking a few steps closer; his feet bump against Motochika. Rather than continuing the discussion in this awkward position, the samurai sighs lightly and sits down in front of his lover.]

I am not afraid.

[His head tips back.]

I just...

[He trails off, frowning slightly as he realises he is not really sure how to finish that sentence.]

[behisstrength]

[When Mitsuhide sits, Motochika places both of his palms on Mitsuhide's thighs and splays his fingers.]

Because you care so deeply for others they respond in turn. That is one of your greatest strengths.

Mitsuhide. When your friends shower you with affection it is wholly deserved.

[wavesoakedlegs]

[Deserved? That hits right at one of Mitsuhide's biggest problems with himself. He hesitates a moment before saying, almost inaudibly:]

Arguing that point won't do any good, will it?

[The conversation is suddenly going down a darker path. No. It's not the time for that... Mitsuhide manages a small smile.]

Regardless, I sincerely hope any visits are private ones as you suggested they would be. A large celebration really isn't to my tastes.

[behisstrength]

I will ensure that no one attempts to throw you a party.

[Motochika leans in and presses their foreheads together.]

Satisfied?

[wavesoakedlegs]

It will suffice, thank you.

[He relaxes with that reassurance, sliding his eyes shut and finally smiling propely. While he has no problems with parties, the idea of one focused on himself was not a pleasant one at all for a man like Mitsuhide.]

video;

[spiria]

[ she looks positively devious. ]

Oh, it is, is it? I'll just have to see what I can do for him!

[ evil laughter? she's not very good at it. but she's seriously gonna try and get him a good present. ]

voice;

[behisstrength]

[Motochika laughs, both amused and pleased.]

Very good. We will see him duly spoiled!

Text.

[warrior_king]

[Ah... celebrating birthdays. Yet another odd custom that Earthlings have...

Then again, paying a homage to Mitsuhide is definitely something Gorthan wants to do.]

I have never celebrated somebody's birthday before. What do you think Mitsuhide will appreciate?

text;

[behisstrength]

Mitsuhide will appreciate any gift that holds personal significance. The sentiment behind the gesture is what truly counts.

If it is a suggestion that you desire... he is very fond of poetry and literature.

text;

[warrior_king]

I see. Then I believe I have something in mind already.

But given the difference between the customs of our races, I first wish to tell you what it is, so you may approve it. May I?

text;

[behisstrength]

Go ahead.

text;

[warrior_king]

I wish to give him two things.

The first is a scroll written by my own hand, containing a poem by the late Evronian general and poet Zartas. The one I hold most dear.

Whereas, when it comes to Earth's literature, I have yet to study it in depth. But one author in particular has caught my eye so far - William Shakespeare, I believe is the name. Does Mitsuhide own any books by him?

Additionally, I will require directions to your house, if I am to deliver my present.

text;

[behisstrength]

I do not believe so.

Our home is in the Lower District, not far from the Phanga neighbourhood. It is an easy building to single out: it stands alone, three stories high, with a large garden.

I am certain that Mitsuhide shall enjoy both gifts.

text;

[warrior_king]

Thank you, Motochika. Your assistance was vital.

Evronian generals usually exchange presents such as weapons, slaves or flasks containing rare emotions, refined and ready to be consumed. I doubt that any of those would be to Mitsuhide's liking. Aside from the weapons, perhaps.