The next morning, a ray of golden sunlight slipped through the curtain gap, spilling softly across the face of the sleeping violet-haired woman. Wearing only a thin-strapped nightdress, her smooth shoulders were exposed, the light giving her fair skin a soft glow.
"Phew..."
Gazing at the woman sleeping peacefully in her arms, Kokomi—already awake—let out a gentle breath before tightening her embrace around the Shogun's arm.
The violet-haired beauty in her arms instinctively tightened her hold around Kokomi's waist, snuggling adorably closer, her face buried against Kokomi's chest like a sleepy kitten curling up in its mother's arms.
Kokomi responded naturally, wrapping her own arms around the woman's head, cradling her close as she slept. Both of them lay on their sides, facing one another beneath the blanket.
The sight was intimate—perhaps a bit too much so—but it wasn't Kokomi's fault. When she had woken up earlier, they were already in this position.
"Shogun-sama... you really love to sleep in, don't you?"
She murmured affectionately, her hand gliding gently through the woman's silky hair. Her fingertips traced effortlessly through the soft violet strands, releasing a faint fragrance that filled her senses. The Shogun truly did cling to her like a spoiled child seeking warmth.
"Mm..."
A soft sound escaped the beauty's lips, the sleepy murmur tinged with a nasal sweetness that made Kokomi's heart flutter. The Shogun furrowed her brow slightly, then squirmed closer, likely bothered by the sunlight.
Seeing this, Kokomi raised a hand to block the light from her face, shading her features with her palm. When that wasn't enough, she carefully leaned over and tugged the curtain shut a little more.
Several minutes later—
The woman in her arms began to stir, her shapely frame shifting slightly beneath the sheets. Her legs, outlined faintly under the nightdress, flexed as she stretched softly.
Kokomi couldn't help smiling at the sight. So adorable... The way the Shogun woke up was simply too cute.
"Mm... Ei~"
The woman murmured faintly in her sleep, her soft voice filled with affection as she rubbed her face against Kokomi's chest like a child seeking comfort.
"U-um... Shogun-sama? What's the matter?"
Kokomi asked softly, trying to ignore the ticklish sensation spreading across her chest. Her voice carried both worry and amusement.
"Mo... mom... mmm..."
"Eh?"
Mo... mom? Kokomi blinked in confusion. Did she just... call me that? Wait—was she dreaming?
"Shogun-sama?"
She whispered again, gently brushing the woman's cheek with the back of her hand.
"...?"
This time, the woman finally stirred awake, her violet eyes fluttering open, hazy with sleep. They shimmered faintly with moisture as she blinked and looked around before her gaze landed on Kokomi, who was still holding her.
"You're awake?"
Kokomi smiled in relief, her voice soft as she brushed aside the woman's bangs, revealing the small beauty mark beneath her eye.
"...Sangonomiya?"
The Shogun murmured her name in a dazed voice, her eyes filled with sleepy confusion.
"Mhm, it's me, Shogun-sama."
Kokomi nodded with a gentle smile.
"...What happened?"
The Shogun rubbed her forehead lightly, her voice carrying a hint of a nasal tone from just waking up.
"Hehe... still half-asleep, are you? Do you remember what happened last night?"
Kokomi giggled softly, pressing the back of her cool hand to the Shogun's cheek to help her wake up.
"Last night... ah, right... I fell asleep."
The Shogun muttered as her memories clicked into place. She exhaled quietly, then—almost instinctively—rested her forehead back against Kokomi's chest.
Kokomi didn't mind in the slightest. If anything, the Shogun being this close made her feel warm and delighted beyond measure.
The Shogun, realizing her current position, suddenly looked up.
"Wait... why are you holding me?"
She asked in confusion.
She clearly remembered that before losing consciousness last night, they had already turned away from each other—so how on earth had they ended up like this again? Could it be that the other woman... had taken advantage of her while she slept?!
"Did you... do something to me—///"
Her face flushed bright red before she could finish the accusation.
"Eh? N-no! You've misunderstood, Shogun-sama! Last night, you came over on your own!"
Kokomi blinked in surprise, then quickly understood what the Shogun meant. Shaking her head frantically, she blushed as she tried to explain.
"I... went there myself? Nonsense."
The Shogun denied it immediately. Impossible. She had been asleep—how could she have done that? And she would never be that forward.
"I'm not lying! I was already asleep, but you woke me up. I was startled at first and thought something had happened... but then I saw you, still asleep, leaning closer and closer against me..."
Kokomi paused, glancing at the bewildered woman before her.
"So I thought... maybe if I held you, you'd sleep more comfortably. And then you stopped moving."
She explained honestly. Though she had been half-asleep at the time, she was certain that was how it happened.
"..."
Oh no.
The Shogun froze, mortified as realization dawned on her. When Ei had unlocked her ability to sleep, she'd gradually developed the habit of cuddling her at night—so when she subconsciously felt someone beside her, she must have assumed it was Ei and instinctively reached out in her sleep!
"Shogun-sama? Are you alright? Your face is so red."
Kokomi asked with concern, brushing her cheek gently.
"Haa... I'm fine. Perhaps... it's just from waking up."
The Shogun didn't push her hand away, only sighed inwardly and chose the simplest excuse she could muster.
"I see... that's good."
Kokomi relaxed. She didn't want the Shogun to catch a chill. Though... can a god even get sick? she wondered absently.
"Sorry..."
The Shogun murmured suddenly.
"Why are you apologizing?"
Kokomi blinked in confusion.
"I... don't seem to sleep very... properly."
The Shogun muttered shyly, her head lowering as her cheeks turned rosy.
"Hehe... It's fine~ You don't have to apologize to me. It's not a big deal! I'm not exactly a calm sleeper either—sometimes I even roll right off the bed."
Kokomi chuckled, trying to put her at ease.
"But... didn't I disturb you?"
The Shogun asked softly.
"Not at all. Look, I slept great, didn't I? I'm even feeling better—my headache's gone too. Really, I should thank you for taking care of me yesterday."
Kokomi smiled warmly, gently pressing her forehead against the Shogun's in gratitude.
"..."
The Shogun didn't reply. After spending this much time together, she was beginning to truly understand this girl's character. Every gesture, every word—none of it felt forced or deceitful. Kokomi was genuine. A good person. Her subordinates, however, were another matter entirely... future negotiations would have to address that carefully.
"Haa... are you hungry?"
She stored that thought in her mind for later, then looked at the girl beside her.
"A little."
Kokomi admitted shyly, touching her stomach.
"What do you want to eat?"
The Shogun smiled faintly as she began to dress, her tone soft.
"I'll make something for you too."
Kokomi quickly sat up, reaching for her own clothes.
"Alright then. What can you cook?"
The Shogun asked while adjusting her outfit, sitting at the bedside to slip on her black stockings, crossing her long legs elegantly as she did.
"I... can make rice balls. Ah—Watatsumi-style rice balls! Would you like to try them?"
Kokomi replied as she sat beside her, pulling on her pale robes.
"Sure. I'll help you with a few side dishes."
The Shogun pulled on the short black stocking over her left leg, flexing her toes before placing her foot on the carpet. She stood, brushing her hair smooth with the wooden comb on Kokomi's vanity.
"That sounds lovely... so, we'll cook together, then...///?"
Kokomi paused halfway through pulling up her white stockings, her cheeks tinged pink as she lifted her gaze shyly.
"If you like."
The Shogun answered casually, tying her hair neatly.
"Mhm~"
Snap~
Kokomi tugged the edge of her gradient white-and-lavender stockings up to her thighs, the snug fabric making a soft, satisfying sound. Wiggling her toes slightly to adjust the fit, she stood and smoothed the ribbon behind her. Once they were both ready, she followed the violet-haired beauty out of the bedroom—heading together toward the Sangonomiya kitchen.
...
In the early morning light of Sangonomiya Shrine, Kokomi stood in the kitchen, wearing an apron as she carefully shaped rice balls. Her fair hands pressed and molded the soft grains with gentle precision, occasionally sprinkling seasonings to enhance the flavor.
On the plate beside her sat several finished pieces—beautifully crafted rice balls wrapped in strands of pale lavender seaweed, like delicate treats arranged neatly in a gift box.
Clack, clack~
The rhythmic sound of a kitchen knife tapping against the cutting board drew her attention. She paused her movements and turned slightly, gazing at the woman beside her. The Shogun was fully focused, her head tilted slightly as she sliced through vegetables with graceful skill. Each slice was even and paper-thin, her slender fingers guiding the food steadily as the blade moved with flawless rhythm. Once finished, she swept the diced ingredients onto the knife and dropped them neatly into the pan.
Sizzle~!
At once, the rich aroma of sizzling ingredients filled the kitchen. The sound of food meeting hot oil blended into a melody of flavor and warmth.
"...What is it?"
Sensing Kokomi's gaze, the Shogun turned slightly, apron tied around her waist, and asked calmly.
"Nothing... I just thought you're incredibly domestic."
Kokomi replied sincerely after a brief moment of daydreaming.
"It's nothing special... not as exaggerated as that."
The Shogun shook her head modestly, placing the lid over the pan and adjusting the heat. She then gathered the trimmed vegetable ends into a small bowl rather than throwing them away—perhaps they'd be useful later. It was simply her habit when cooking.
"Shogun-sama, you truly are... the model of an ideal wife."
Kokomi said softly, watching those small, thoughtful gestures with affection.
Cooking, attentive, responsible, gentle... she had experienced firsthand how comforting it felt to be cared for by such a woman. It was the kind of warmth one could easily get lost in.
"Is that... supposed to be a compliment?"
The Shogun paused, tilting her head.
"Of course it is."
Kokomi nodded immediately.
"Haa... I've never considered matters like marriage. It sounds troublesome."
The Shogun muttered after a moment's thought.
"Pfft... I was only speaking figuratively. I didn't mean for you to actually get married."
Kokomi laughed, correcting her fondly. If she ever did get married, Kokomi thought, it would probably break every girl's heart on both islands.
"Then... what exactly does an 'ideal wife' mean?"
The Shogun asked, her cheeks faintly pink.
"It means you're gentle, considerate, refined, and responsible—just like the perfect wife would be."
Kokomi explained patiently.
"Oh... then you could be one too."
"Eh? M-me?///"
Kokomi's face immediately turned red, flustered by the unexpected remark. Why bring me into this all of a sudden?!
"In my eyes," the Shogun continued, "those same traits apply to you."
She glanced at the rice ball in Kokomi's hands, then at the girl herself—wearing an apron, her long pink hair tied neatly back, her expression serene and focused. Even as another woman, the Shogun couldn't help but think—Kokomi was... enchanting.
"U-um... then, Shogun-sama... do you like it?///"
Kokomi tucked a strand of hair behind her ear shyly, lowering her gaze as she asked softly. The rice ball in her hands was unconsciously squeezed out of shape from nervousness.
"...Do I?"
The Shogun murmured.
"Mhm..."
Kokomi nodded silently, lips pressed together as she waited for an answer, fingers still fiddling anxiously with the rice ball.
"Haa... if you're asking whether I like it or not—of course I do. But... I'm also a woman, so perhaps my perspective—"
"It's alright. Just knowing you like it is enough."
Kokomi interrupted gently, her expression relaxing into a bright smile as she resumed shaping the rice balls. She didn't need the admiration of men—what she wanted was hers.
"..."
The Shogun fell silent for a moment, her gaze drifting to the rice ball in Kokomi's delicate hands.
"The rice ball's flattened."
The Shogun's calm voice broke the silence as she glanced at Kokomi's hands.
"Eh? Ah... sorry///."
Kokomi quickly noticed the rice ball she had nearly squashed into a rice cake, hurriedly reshaping it into form before wrapping it neatly and setting it onto the plate.
"...Not bad."
The Shogun chose to ignore the earlier mishap, offering sincere praise instead.
"Mhm, my mother taught me when I was little."
Kokomi smiled in relief and nodded.
"Then I'll have to try one later."
The Shogun said with a faint smile, her tone teasing.
"Hehe, of course—you were the one I made them for."
Kokomi answered sweetly.
A few minutes later—
The two began serving breakfast. Morning meals shouldn't be heavy, and both of them had light appetites. The Shogun, unlike Ei, wasn't particularly gluttonous; moderate portions were plenty. Even though her body was that of a puppet, she still paid attention to maintaining her form—and truthfully, she often didn't eat at all.
They carried the food to the dining room and sat across from each other at the table. The dishes weren't luxurious, just simple homemade fare—fitting for breakfast. Balance, not excess.
Kokomi took a bite of the stir-fried vegetables, chewing thoughtfully.
"How's the taste?"
The Shogun asked, not yet lifting her chopsticks, her tone laced with curiosity.
"Mmm, it's delicious."
Kokomi replied with a warm smile, taking another bite. As expected, the Shogun's cooking is wonderful...
"As long as it tastes good. I avoided meat—it's better to keep breakfast light, less oily."
Watching Kokomi eat so happily, the Shogun couldn't help but smile softly.
"Mhm~"
Kokomi nodded enthusiastically as she chewed.
"Haa..."
The Shogun exhaled lightly, then picked up one of the beautifully made rice balls Kokomi had crafted. She peeled back the wrapping, took a small bite, and began to chew slowly. The flavor was gentle and balanced—perfectly seasoned.
"Kokomi..."
She said suddenly, as if a thought had crossed her mind.
"Hmm?"
Kokomi looked up at her curiously.
"After breakfast, I'll be leaving Watatsumi Island for a bit."
"You're... leaving?"
Kokomi's heart skipped, her voice soft and uncertain.
"Not returning to Narukami Island. I'm heading to Yashiori Island."
"Yashiori Island? Ah... you're going to handle the Tatarigami problem?"
Kokomi exhaled in relief as understanding dawned.
"Correct. The corruption can't be left unchecked—it'll become a future threat. Best to resolve it early, for the safety of the displaced citizens."
To help those residents return safely, she had to purge the curse completely. As the Raiden Shogun, protecting Inazuma's stability was her duty. Efficiency mattered more to her than delegation.
"..."
Kokomi lowered her gaze in quiet thought.
"It won't take long. A day should be enough."
The Shogun assured her. After all, tomorrow was the day of their peace talks.
"I understand. Then... I'll go with you."
Kokomi placed her bowl down and spoke earnestly.
"There's no need—I can handle it alone—"
"Shogun-sama, the matter of Yashiori Island was caused by Watatsumi's forces. My soldiers committed such acts, and I was kept in the dark."
Her tone softened with guilt.
"So... it's my responsibility. My failure in oversight. How could I possibly let you shoulder the aftermath alone?"
"..."
The Shogun fell silent, meeting Kokomi's steady gaze.
"Besides, with the peace negotiations approaching, I wish to contribute something meaningful to Inazuma—to show my sincerity."
Kokomi pressed a hand to her chest as she spoke.
"Haa... fine. Do as you wish. It might not hurt to have another by my side—but it won't be easy. Are you prepared?"
"Yes. For this journey, the Divine Priestess of Watatsumi Island—Sangonomiya Kokomi—will accompany you, Shogun-sama."
Kokomi stood, stepping beside her and extending a gloved hand, much like when she had first welcomed her ashore.
"Very well. I trust you... Kokomi."
The Shogun nodded approvingly and placed her slender hand into Kokomi's, allowing the girl to help her up. Kokomi's lips curved into a soft, serene smile as she held her hand gently.
"Shogun-sama, may I make one request?"
She asked softly.
"What is it?"
"Could you... call me by my name? Just 'Kokomi.'"
"...I can."
The Shogun paused for a moment, then nodded. It felt right, after all they had shared.
"Then... could you say it now?"
Kokomi's voice was quiet but hopeful, her gaze tender.
"...Kokomi."
"!"
Kokomi's body trembled, her lips parting slightly as joy spread across her face.
"Mhm~"
She nodded sweetly, her smile radiant with happiness.