"My chil", "My sweet child", "My angel", "My little one", these were just some of the ways in which Kagaya addressed almost all members of the organization, regardless of whether they were older or younger than him, everything was with pure affection.

Although most simply did not accept this, it was always a thought of "I am older than you, do not call me that", "I am not even your family", "I have not given you the confidence to call me that", just thoughts. But Kagaya understood them, he only sought to give them the support he considered they needed.

But of course, a certain group felt quite flattered when they received these comments. They felt the warmth of a father and a mother at the same time, they didn't need to pretend, they were just themselves and in Kagaya's eyes, children looking for a comforting hug...

Mitsuri: I don't think any gift will be enough for Oyakata-sama...

Rengoku: Definitely not! Oyakata-sama deserves the whole world, and if possible, the universe!

Gyomei: I agree with you, but he always refuses to let us spend money on him and gives us back what we spent on his gift. He always says that it is best to save it in case we really need it someday.

Shinobu: We could try to make some crafts together or maybe make something that reminds him of us, like a blanket or a scarf or a haori.

Tengen: It's not a bad idea. But the holiday is so close, I don't think we can do it in two days, especially if we have to work and rest.

Sanemi: Do any of you have time off? Or, in any case, why don't we just pay someone else to do that work?

Shinobu: Shinazugawa, I was talking about doing it ourselves, even if it goes wrong.

Muichiro: I think Shinazugawa is right, we don't have enough time to make something good enough for him.

Rengoku: I agree with Kocho! Even if it's a letter or a sheet of paper with our signatures, it will be appreciated by Oyakata-sama!

Mitsuri: Giyuu, don't you have something to say...?

Giyuu: I think we shouldn't give him anything material. Why don't we just spend time with him? We buy some food, have lunch at his house, and maybe talk about something.

The room fell silent. Giyuu opened one of his closed eyes. Had he said something wrong? He should have kept quiet anyway.

Sanemi: Who would have thought, the idiot finally hit the nail on the head

Rengoku: Shinazugawa, I kindly ask you not to refer to Tomioka like that! He rarely speaks, but that's no reason to be insulted!

Sanemi: Tsk... Whatever

Mitsuri: That's a wonderful idea! We can have a picnic at your estate! Oh, I could bring a tablecloth and some dishes!

Shinobu: I'll help you with that, but... Should we do them all on the same day...? I mean, will we all have the same energy that day?

Gyomei: Like Tomioka said, we can just make an appearance, if in any case someone has a mission the night before or that same night, we can have a schedule for everyone to enjoy.

Tengen: That would be a bit difficult, and let's also keep in mind that Oyakata-Sama also has children and a wife and might want to spend time with them as well.

Muichiro: Good point. Maybe we should split up the days so we can spend time with him. And when it's the main day, go and have a quick and easy meal with him.

They had so many options, but they couldn't seem to agree on anything. They wanted to share it with him, but how could they? In addition, they took into account his illness and that, perhaps, he would make a visit to the cemetery to visit his children.

After a long discussion, they agreed to go in pairs; no one was allowed to go alone. Of course, they decided who they would go with and that they were compatible enough to be together, without fighting.

Shinobu: So it's like this... Mitsuri will go with Giyuu. Rengoku will go with Obanai. Gyomei will go with Sanemi. Muichiro will go with me... And you, Tengen? You can't go alone!

Gyomei: If you allow me, Tengen can come with us, you don't mind, right Shinazugawa?

Sanemi: I guess I can tolerate it... But I'm not promising anything.

Rengoku: In any case, Tengen will come with me! I don't mind at all! What about you, Obanai?!

Mitsuri: Guys... Please, we have to come to an agreement... Although... I think it's Uzui who should decide, right?

Tengen: Well... Shinazugawa, Himejima, I appreciate you considering me but, I think I'll go with Rengoku and Obanai

Gyomei: There's no need to apologize. Like Kanroji said, it was your decision. But if you change your mind, you can send a crow and we'll gladly go with you.

Shinobu: Well, then it's decided. Remember, we'll meet here the day before to plan whether we'll bring him some lunch or some cake.

Muichiro: We'll also ask if he's coming to visit, to see if we have the opportunity to decorate his estate a little.

The next day, Giyuu and Mitsuri went shopping for some things, like a set of teacups so they could have a good time together. Giyuu decided to take something for the master's wife and children as well, opting for some stuffed animals and a new kimono.

Mitsuri: Oyakata-sama! We've arrived! Ah! Sorry sorry sorry! Excuse my manners!

Kagaya: No problem. You know better than to be respectful. Let's pretend I'm just Kagaya for today, okay?

Giyuu: If you say so. I hope you don't mind that we brought some things for your family.

Kagaya: It wasn't necessary, but I appreciate the gesture. Thank you so much. You're both such sweet and obedient children.

Both of them couldn't help but blush, Mitsuri more than Giyuu, they always felt their hearts warm when they heard him call them his children

Giyuu was told by Amane where he could leave the things they brought and only returned to them once he had arranged things properly.

Mitsuri kept talking, Kagaya and Giyuu listened to her attentively, it was pleasant to hear. Although Mitsuri was constantly embarrassed because she talked a lot and they didn't talk at all.

Kagaya: I'm very happy to hear that you're doing very well. I expected nothing less from my hashiras.

Giyuu: And how's your health? I'm sorry if this topic bothers you a little.

Kagaya: Don't worry, I appreciate your concern. I'm doing very well so far. Spending time with you and my family makes me forget I'm sick, thank you so much for that

Mitsuri: You're very strong. Oy-... Sorry, sorry! Kagaya-sama... You're very strong, we have no doubt that you'll get better soon...

Kagaya: I appreciate your wishes, Kanroji, but how about we stop worrying about it for a bit? Let's enjoy this moment.

They tried, but honestly, it was kind of hard not to care about a man like him. A man so good, so kind, so pure, and suffering from a disease that's deteriorating his health? It didn't seem fair to them.

Kagaya: I'm very happy that we live together like this, we should do it more often, don't you think it would be a good thing?

Mitsuri: Definitely! Oh, I know how to do it even better!

Giyuu: Kanroji-san, try to keep your voice down a bit, okay? Sorry if I offend you, but I don't like noise that much.

Mitsuri: Oh god, excuse me Tomioka, I didn't know, I beg your pardon!

Kagaya: Okay, okay, both of you please calm down. Is there a way to resolve this? I'm sure there is.

Mitsuri: Oyakata-sama, you always do so much for us... How could we repay you...?

Kagaya: No need, dear Kanroji. Your joy is enough for me.

They both saw each other... Kanroji thought about it, Tomioka understood, and they both agreed, but obviously, they should be careful. If they made Kagaya push himself too hard, it could be detrimental to him.

When the silence fell, Kagaya found it strange, but assumed they were eating and didn't want to be rude.

Mitsuri: Oyakata-sama, would you forgive us for something you probably don't like but might like?

Kagaya: Well... I guess I can't be bothered, you asked my permission after all and I agreed.

Giyuu: Well, forgive our recklessness and bad manners for what we will do...

Kagaya was surprised, that was curious... But he couldn't help thinking about it, when he felt someone grab his wrists. Soon, a pair of fingers began to gently scratch his palms, making him shudder. He didn't expect anyone other than Amane to know about it.

His lips formed a smile, not trying to move away from them, until he felt another pair of fingers gently scratching his neck and brushing his ears, making him wrinkle his neck as his smile grew little by little

Mitsuri: Uwaaaaa! Oyakata-sama's hands are ticklish! How cute!

Giyuu: Indeed, I'm not surprised because his haori usually covers his hands

Kagaya: W-whahahat...? T-thahahat's nohohohot truehehehehehe...!!!

Giyuu: No? Your daughters don't hold your hands because maybe they know you have sensitive hands and that's why they hold your wrists.

Kagaya: Ahahahaha?!

Okay, he didn't expect that. Tomioka was even more observant than he expected. Though, looking back, he might have been right, but this wasn't the time to spill those secrets!

It's not that his family didn't tickle him, but it was somewhat embarrassing that his hashiras knew about it, especially if Tomioka's analysis and Mitsuri's flattery didn't let him.

Mitsuri: Oyakata-sama, why didn't you ever tell us that?! It's so sweet! If I had known, I would have always made this gesture towards you at meetings!

Kagaya: I-ihihhit's j-juhuhuhust... I-I didn't thihihihink you g-guhuhuys would knohohohohow lihihihikehehehe t-thahahat...!

Giyuu: Mmmmm, so you were planning to keep hiding it from us? Or did you just want us to find out?

Mitsuri: Whatever the reason, it doesn't take away from the fact that this is adorable!

Kagaya's cheeks blushed brightly, he didn't expect such a level of embarrassment, but it wasn't like he was telling them they would have to stop, he enjoyed it... Only he didn't know if it was because he saw them happy or because he liked living together, but it didn't take away the fact that he was letting them tickle him for as long as they wanted.

And of course, this did not go unnoticed by the hashiras, who, almost at the same time, chose to point out this detail.

Mitsuri: Aaaaw Oyakata-sama! Your cheeks are so red, why would that be? I have so many options, don't you Tomioka?

Giyuu: Yes, maybe because our flattery is having too much effect on him.

Mitsuri: Oh, I had planned for it to be because he's not asking us to stop!

Giyuu: Also, maybe he's too embarrassed or just not ready to accept that he likes this yet.

Mitsuri: Aaaaaw so cute!

It might sound like a lot, but it's nothing bad, they were aware that they couldn't push Kagaya's limits, so their tickling was only gentle, so that he wouldn't have to try so hard to laugh out loud.

After a few minutes, they decided to stop slowly, they didn't plan to do it again because he would have to rest a little, besides, the others could take care of that too.

Mitsuri: Oyakata-Sama... Are you okay...?

Kagaya: Yes, yes I am, thank you very much for your concern, my children

Giyuu: Were we too harsh on you? Perhaps we went a little too far?

Kagaya: Don't worry, I enjoyed it, it was exciting and I think a good ending to our meeting.

They both couldn't help but smile, it calmed them to know that he was okay, but above all, that he had enjoyed that little moment with them.

The next morning, he received a message that other hashiras would come to visit him, he was very happy about it, he didn't know who they were, but that also excited him

Rengoku: Good morning Oyakata-sama! Nice day, don't you think?!

Kagaya: Oh, Rengoku, it's you... Yes, it's a nice day, I'm sure the blue sky has clouds accompanying it.

Tengen: And you are not wrong, the day is beautiful, there is even a fresh breeze that shakes the trees

Kagaya: Sounds good, is it just you two who came?

Tengen: No, Obanai is here too, come on man, say something, you've been very quiet since before we arrived!

Obanai: Good morning, Oyakata-Sama...

Kagaya: Oh, Obanai, you're here too, I'm glad. Did you come with Kaburamaru?

Obanai: Yes, he's here with me... I just didn't know what to say, that's why I didn't speak... I apologize...

Kagaya: You don't need to apologize, it's okay, I understand. It's always better to think before you speak, it's a very good virtue of yours, my boy.

Rengoku: Oyakata-sama is right, Obanai! Don't worry so much! We're just here to have a good time however we can, okay?!

Kagaya: Well, as I told Kanroji and Tomioka yesterday, there's no need to refer to me as "Oyakata-sama", you can call me Kagaya, the formality isn't necessary.

Although they didnt want to lose the formality, they accepted it, it would be a bit difficult, but it was okay, if it was what Oyakata-sama wanted, they would comply without a doubt.

Rengoku and Tengen had offered to bring homemade food, prepared by them with the help of their family, while Obanai was in charge of bringing what was needed to serve.

Kagaya: It seems that I will be spending more time with you these days, huh? I'm glad about that... And like I told the kids yesterday, we could all get together one day to have an even better time, don't you think?

Tengen: We will talk about it with others, I'm sure they will also accept or have more options to improve the day.

Kagaya: There's no need to go out, my estate is spacious, so everyone can come in perfectly.

Rengoku: Still! We wouldn't want to upset your family, and besides, a change of scenery is always good!

Obanai: You are right about that, but we also have to think about Oyakata-Sama's health, perhaps there are medicines or medicinal plants that he needs and we cannot take them with us.

Tengen: Mmmm, in that case, we could bring the things and prepare them here, it's not a bad idea, what do you think?

Kagaya: I think it's a great idea, and you could also bring some guests. I wouldn't mind. And I think you'd also like to share with other people.

The three stared at each other and thought, it would be a bit more work and there would probably be difficulties in cleaning things up afterwards, but on the other hand, the idea of living with their family and thus having a better relationship with others seemed like a good idea to them.

They would discuss it with the other hashiras to wait for their opinion, but for now, they only agreed and mentioned that they would take it into account for the next meeting.

Rengoku: Oyakata-Sama, what did you think of the dessert?!

Kagaya: It was delicious, may I ask who cooked it?

Tengen: They were my flashy wives. They're talented in the kitchen, aren't they? Of course, Rengoku's little brother also helped us a lot with the preparation, so it was a team effort.

Kagaya: What wonderful news, I am very happy that even outside of work, you manage to work as the good team that you are.

But then, Obanai didn't do anything? Nothing to do with it, he's in charge of the next surprise, it's not something material, but he'll do his best.

Kagaya: And you, Obanai? Maybe you helped prepare the drink? Or did something happen and you couldn't participate?

Obanai: In fact, I brought the plates and glasses, but I am also in charge of another surprise that I hope you like.

Kagaya: Oh, well, I can't say I don't like surprises, although it wasn't necessary. But I appreciate the gesture. I'm sure you worked very hard for it, what is it?

Obanai: It's nothing material, so I didn't spend anything, this is my... Rather... The group's surprise...

Kagaya: Oh, that's c-cuhuhutehehehe...

I told you it wasn't anything material, Kanroji yesterday told Urara to report this event, so the next group immediately knew what they could give him and, as Kagaya said, it was a good way to end that brief meeting.

The three immediately realized that what they were told was true, Kagaya did not try to get away from them, he just laughed and accepted it.

Rengoku: Now I understand why this is always your method to make us feel better!

Obanai: What do you find more fun, Kagaya-sama? Tickling your hashiras or having your hashiras tickle you?

Kagaya: Bo-bohohoth ahahaharehehehe go-good...!

Tengen: Well, well, so you're admitting you like both? But what do you like more? The first or the second?

Kagaya: I-I do-dohohon't kn-knohohohow...! I l-lihihike thehehehem b-bohohoth...!

Rengoku: We know that! But which of the two options do you like more?!

He couldn't think clearly, he liked both for the simple fact that he lived with them and they had fun, and in a certain part because he liked that, but he's not ready to admit it yet.

Obanai only needed a few soft scratches to make him laugh like that, it was a deduction he made, he didn't attack his palms or his neck, he tried less common spots.

Tengen: Hey Obanai, are you tickling his back to see if someone else is sharing your same spot?

Obanai: Keep messing with me because I'm going to kick you.

Kagaya: D-dohohohohon't f-fihihight gu-guys...! Th-theheheherehehe's no n-nehehehehehehed...!

Rengoku: Oyakata-sama is right! We shouldn't fight! But you shouldn't pay attention to that either! You just have to laugh! Uzui, it's our time to help Obanai!

Tengen nodded and cracked his knuckles subtly, they were clear that they shouldn't be so rough, so he just tapped him gently, trying to feel out where else them could get a good reaction

When he reached part of Kagaya's hips, he decided that this would be the spot, why? I don't know... Maybe because when he did, Kagaya squealed and shuddered more than anywhere else.

Rengoku: Uzui! Be very careful, remember that we must not exceed the limits of Oyakata-sama!

Tengen: I know, but tell me Oyakata-Sama, does it bother you?

Kagaya: I-ihihhit's OKAHAHAHAHAHAHAY...!!! S-sohohohorry...!!!

Obanai: It seems he can't resist tickling his knees either.

Kagaya: Sohohohorryhihihi...!!! ECK! O-okahay y-yohohohou gehehehehet meeeeee...!!!

Rengoku: What exactly? More ticklish spots from you?!

Obanai: Is too much in those spots?

Tengen: Or that you are very ticklish all over your body?

Kagaya: T-thehehehehey ahahahahall s-sohohound the sa-sahahahamehehehe! A-and the a-ahahanswer is yeeeeeeeehehehehehehehes!!!

With that, they finally stopped, they had what they were looking for, plus they felt like they were being too mean to him.

They poured some water and handed it to him, making sure he drank it slowly and that them hadn't passed his limits.

Tengen: Are you okay, Oyakata-sama...? We didn't want you to get into trouble...

Kagaya: I'm... fine... Thank you... for the... concern...

Obanai: Is there anything else you need us to do before we leave?

Kagaya: Heh, no need my children, I feel better now, I was glad to have spent the day with you.

Rengoku: We look forward to spending another day like this with you! Laughter is good for your health!

Kagaya: Indeed, thanks for brightening my day, see you next time.

When the three of them left, Kagaya then understood that he had admitted his taste and ended up with his face completely red until Amane had to calm him down a bit, but she also already knew about his taste

The next morning, unlike the others, Shinobu and Muichiro arrived a little later than the others, reason? The night before they had a somewhat busy night and stayed up solving some matters, so once they were done with it, they bought what they needed and went to meet him

Shinobu: Forgive our delay Oyakata-sama, we...

Kagaya: You don't need to apologize Shinobu, I understand, the important thing is that you are here and that you are well.

Muichiro: We brought some things and a cake to share with your children.

Kagaya: Oh, how kind of you, heh, I've been eating a lot of sweets these days, but who am I to refuse your gift?

Shinobu: Oyakata-sama, please also be careful with your sugar levels, too much sugar can be bad for you.

Kagaya: Don't worry, I know how to measure my limits and I share most of my desserts with my family and you.

Muichiro: Even so, you must listen to Shinobu, the last thing we want is for your health to worsen.

Kagaya smiled, invited them to sit next to him and stroked both hashiras' heads, Shinobu also smiled back and giggled a little, while Muichiro just felt something familiar and comforting

Shinobu made a small gesture to Muichiro, he understood and nodded, taking Kagaya's hand and putting his head on his lap

Shinobu: (This wasn't what I had planned, but it'll do I guess)

Kagaya: Oh, Tokito, are you tired? Because if so, I can ask for a pillow or a futon to be brought for you.

Muichiro: I don't need a futon, especially if I'm going to do this.

It was a bit weird, but Kagaya soon felt a hand start to scribble around his belly button and other parts of his stomach. It took him by surprise and his reaction was almost immediate, and if that weren't enough, he soon felt his sides also begin to tingle.

Muichiro: He is sensitive, don't you think?

Shinobu: That's right, Tokito. Don't you think he's adorable? I mean, he always says that to us, right?

Muichiro: Yes, and I also remember always trying other spots to see if he could get a better reaction.

Shinobu: Now now Tokito-Kun, let's have some mercy, okay? He's compassionate towards us, it's only fair that we do too, don't you think?

The worst part? Shinobu and Muichiro's hands were small, meaning they had better access to other weak spots. Muichiro didn't hesitate for two seconds to sometimes "make a mistake" and put his finger in his navel and make it turn.

Shinobu, for her part, had her fingers "glued" to Kagaya's sides, so that, even if he moved, she managed to keep up with him, one way or another.

Shinobu: Oyakata-Sama, the others told us that you didn't move much when being tickled, why is it different with us?

Kagaya: W-whahahaHAHAHAT?! T-thahahahat's... A l-l...!!! Thahahahat's a li-lihehehehe...!!!

Muichiro: A lie? I don't think so. Maybe they just didn't know where to go, and that's why they didn't get the same reaction we did.

Shinobu: Come on Tokito, don't underestimate the efforts of others, maybe they just weren't lucky.

Kagaya: Y-yo-yohohou guhuhuhuys a-arehehehehehe ge-gehehehetti-tihihing the sa-SAHAHAHAmehehehe reahaHAHAHAHACtioHOHOHOHOn a-as e-eveheheryone eeeeeeelse!!!

Muichiro: Really? So that means we're just saying it to embarrass you and get a better reaction?

Yes, that was precisely his plan, it was only a matter of a few seconds for him to admit his defeat and finally be freed from those fingers that acted with mastery and made him laugh more than the previous times

Shinobu: How do you feel now, Oyakata-Sama?

Kagaya: Gre-greeheheheahahahat...

Muichiro: Would you like us to call Amane-San to come and see you and make sure you're okay?

Shinobu: Tokito-Kun, I have knowledge in medicine, I will know how to take care of him, let's let him rest so he wakes up and we can eat, do you think?

Muichiro: Okay, if you say so

Although he was a little tired, Kagaya needed a few minutes to stabilize himself and finally be able to try a bite of what his hashiras had brought.

But, he had to be alert, because while he was eating, he felt how someone continued giving him pokes on his sides or near his navel, he didn't know who, because they remained silent.

Sanemi: Finally it's our turn, did you tell Oyakata-Sama that we would go or would you like me to do it?

Gyomei: You don't have to worry, I've already taken care of everything.

Sanemi: Well, if you insist, do you think we'll make it on time? I mean, the food makes it a little difficult for us to walk, but we have to be careful.

Gyomei: Calm down, I have everything measured, do you trust me?

Sanemi: Of course I do

And indeed, in less time than they expected, they managed to reach the estate. It was very early, perhaps too early.

Kagaya: Gyomei? Oh, so early as usual, by pure chance, you're coming with Shinazugawa?

Sanemi: Yes, here I am Oyakata-sama.

Kagaya: I'm very glad, I thought you wouldn't come, I know you take your job very seriously and you almost always don't allow yourself to rest.

Sanemi: Yeah, well, thanks for having us. We brought some tea and something to eat, we hope it is to your liking.

Kagaya: Of course it will be, even if it's a small gift, you know I'll cherish it like it's worth millions.

Gyomei signaled Sanemi to sit with them, it was a simple activity they always did, now they would share it with him.

Sanemi knew that none of them could see, so he acted as their eyes and told them in detail about everything, if a leaf fell, if a cloud passed and had some shape, simple things.

Kagaya: I'm surprised by your attitude Sanemi, heh, you tell things as if you were a happy child who has just discovered new things for him.

Sanemi: I'm just being detailed so you guys have a picture of what I'm seeing, it's not a big deal.

Kagaya: Still, I can hear the emotion in your voice when you tell it, it's adorable.

Sanemi's face and ears blushed noticeably, okay, he didn't expect it, he hadn't realized that his voice had sounded that way either, but nothing escapes Kagaya.

They spent time chatting about some things, it seemed like they talked more than they ate, just like the little birds.

Kagaya: You know, I thought you guys would do... that... too...

Gyomei: What would "that" thing be?

Kagaya: Come on Gyomei, you know perfectly well what I'm talking about, don't pretend you don't understand.

Gyomei: Well, I'm not aware of what the others have done during their time together with you, so that's why I'm asking you to tell us.

Sanemi: (He's playing with Oyakata-Sama, of course he knows what they've done to him and what he's referring to)

Both maintained this "argument" of "arguing" about what they "knew" and what they "didn't know." It lasted quite a while, if you ask Sanemi, who was just waiting for Himejima's signal to carry out his plan

When Kagaya finally ran out of "reasons" to "argue", Sanemi knew it was time, so he tried to be gentle when he put his fingers on his armpits.

Kagaya: W-WHAHAHAT...?!

Gyomei: Kagaya, I've known you for so long, of course I know what you meant, I thought I could get you to say it, but well, we'll do it your way, Sanemi, I'll give you the honors.

Sanemi: It will be a pleasure...~

The worst that could happen to Kagaya was that. Gyomei was right, he knew him well, maybe too well, and he was absolutely sure that it was he who told Sanemi what he had to do to get his best reactions

Kagaya clasped his arms around himself as he "struggled" not to laugh, but of course, he didn't succeed.

Sanemi: What's wrong, Oyakata-sama? Is it too... What's the word...? I think I've forgotten, Himejima-san, do you remember it?~

Gyomei: Mmmm, I think I'm looking for that word too... Oyakata-sama, I mean, Kagaya, perhaps you might know, might you not?

Kagaya: Y-YO-YOHOHOHOHOU KNOHOHOHOW...!!! ECK I-IHIHIHIHIT W-WE-WE-WEHEHEHEHEHELL...!!!

Sanemi: Seriously? Hey, but if we analyze it more closely, then he knows the word and doesn't want to tell us, don't you think?

Gyomei: Indeed, it seems we'll have to help him remember it...

Kagaya: (oh gosh...)

Soon, Kagaya felt someone grab one of his legs and scratch behind his knees, he screamed as he felt both hashiras attacking his most vulnerable spots.

He couldn't kick them, mainly because he didn't have the heart and because his legs were stopped, so... And also because he didn't want to give them the pleasure.

Kagaya: STOHOHOHOHOHOHOP!!! PLEHEHEHAHAHASE!!!

Sanemi: But we haven't found the word yet, that was our purpose, wasn't it?

Gyomei: Shinazugawa is right, unless of course... You want to collaborate and help us remember the word

Sanemi: The clues don't count, because it would only increase the time we will continue doing this.

He couldn't stand it any longer, even though he thought that maybe they would understand, but they didn't, so he took a breath and shouted the word

Kagaya: O-OKAHAHAHAHAY!!! OKAY!!! I-I-I'M... I- AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! TIHIHICKLIHIHISH!!! I SAHAHAHID IIIIIIT!!! PLEHEHEHAHAHASEHEHEHEHE!!!

And finally, they stop. Kagaya fell exhausted into Sanemi's chest, undoubtedly winning the prize for who could make him scream/laugh the loudest. And it was noticeable, because it took him even longer to recover than in previous meetings and he couldn't even stop some laughter from coming out even when he spoke.

Sanemi: Are you feeling better?

Gyomei: I don't think so yet, heh, we were a little harsh on him, he'll be fine, it's not the first time he's had to deal with that.

Sanemi: I guess you're right, I'm glad I teamed up with you Himejima

"Who are you?"

Mitsuri didn't know what to say to that.

She was a friendly person, and she deeply admired her fellow Hashira. She tried to bond with them and greatly enjoyed the time they spent together. Admittedly, she hadn't spent as much time with Muichiro as she had with some of the others. Still, it should be enough for him to remember her!

She gaped at him, awkwardly floundering with her hands as she tried to overcome her embarrassment. 

"Ah—well it's me… Mitsuri Kanroji… the Love Hashira?" She said with a confused tilt to her voice that made it seem more like a question. She kept talking until something like recognition bloomed in his cloudy eyes.

"Oh. Did you need something?"

Heat flooded her face as she sheepishly rubbed the back of her neck. This wasn't going how she expected. She simply wanted to say hello to her fellow Hashira and perhaps share a meal, but she hadn't thought he would be so aloof!

"No! I was just—" She cut herself off, noticing the cut on his neck. His whole appearance was disheveled, his uniform was bloodstained, and his right leg was dragging slightly behind his left. She'd noticed it when she first approached him, but his response quickly distracted her from her worry. "Are you hurt?"

"It's only minor injuries. I was going to go to the Butterfly Mansion to be treated." He said, gazing up at the sky.

"Eh?! But–but that's so far from here! It would take days to get there! Especially if your leg is injured!" Mitsuri protested, frantically gesturing with her arms. "There's a house with a wisteria crest nearby! Let's go there instead!"

He stared at her for a long moment with a puzzled look. "What?"

She realized he must've spaced out again. It wasn't surprising; he had always been a bit scatter-brained. "Come on! Let's get you some help!"

The walk took longer than it should have with Muichiro's injured leg. Mitsuri had offered to help and crouched down. He hadn't understood why and stared at her until she stood back up, red-faced and talking rapidly. She was like a little chick that wouldn't stop chirping.

Finally, they arrived at a house and were greeted by an elderly couple. A doctor was summoned for him, and Mitsuri disappeared somewhere during his treatment. His injuries weren't severe. Some cuts and scrapes that were quickly dressed, and there was a break or a sprain or something that Muichiro had lost focus on when the doctor explained it. He was too busy trying to remember the name of a bird he saw through the window.

"Are you feeling better?" 

Muichiro had been so absorbed in his thoughts that he didn't notice the doctor leave or Mitsuri enter. She must have been bathing because her hair was wet and gathered in rivulets around her, except for a section she was gathering and braiding together. It was pretty. He wondered why it was such an odd color.

"I'm fine," He said, standing up and ignoring the pain in his leg. "I'll be leaving now."

"What? But we just got here!" She cried, dropping the half-made braid.

"Our time is more valuable as Hashiras. Every second we waste leads to someone's death. You aren't even injured. Can you afford to waste your time lounging around here?"

Her mouth fell open, and her face turned red again. It took her a moment to compose herself before she spoke. "You're right… but I don't think that's fair! We're humans, not demons! We need to rest and take breaks, or else we can't perform! We'll make mistakes and get hurt!"

Muichiro stared at her, unconvinced and blank-faced, so she continued to blabber on. "Besides! It's morning so no demons are out! And–and I haven't received a new mission yet, so I have nowhere I need to go! And I don't think you've gotten one either!"

He sighed. It was early. It would be at least half a day before the sun set and demons could hunt; his crow hadn't alerted him of any other pressing matters, and the throbbing in his foot worsened when he walked. He supposed he could spend a few hours eating and resting before he pursued his next mission. It had been a long time since he'd had a proper meal, or rest for that matter, but he doubted he'd have enough time for that.

Tilting his head at Mitsuri, he asked, "Do they have food?"

Her entire being brightened. She was radiant. Smiling and laughing, she clapped her hands together and ran out of the room, promising she'd return with food. He sat back down in his provided bed, toying with a few stands of his hair as he tried to replicate her braid.

After a few failed attempts and getting distracted by the chittering of his crow, Mitsuri returned with the couple, carrying a table and large portions of food.

He didn't need to be confined to his bed, but they insisted on bringing everything to him. They probably would have fed him if he'd let them.

Mitsuri proved to be a surprisingly voracious eater. He didn't expect such a dainty girl to eat so much and lost count after her sixth serving. 

The food was good. Warm. Oddly nostalgic. It happened quite often. He'd recognize something familiar. From his old life. The fog around his memories receded just enough for him to recall it without being able to place it; there was never enough to remember anything of value—to unmuddle his mind.

She couldn’t stop talking throughout the meal, either. Mindless chatter and tirades that Muichiro found himself enjoying when he could focus on what she was saying. She didn’t mind when he spaced out and continued on, filling the silence or repeating the question a few times until his attention returned.

“Hm?” He asked, noticing her expectant stare as he tuned back in.

“Do you have any family?” She repeated. She was nice—patient. He knew how easy it was to be annoyed by him. Most people, that he could remember, were.

Before he completely lost focus again, he shifted his gaze back towards Mitsuri instead of the wall it was veering towards.

“I don’t know.” 

If he did have one, he had no memories of them. The thought of it left him with a vague longing and sadness that accompanied every other mention of his past, but it made no difference. The fog never cleared.

“Oh,” For a moment, a remarkably sad look passed over Mitsuri’s face, but it quickly brightened again with an enthusiastic smile. “That’s okay! You can make your own family someday! Soon, I want to get married and have lots of kids! You can too, when you’re older!”

He cocked his head to the side. He didn’t know her well but couldn’t recall any mention of a partner. “Who are you going to marry?”

Another blush spread as she cupped her hands around her face, laughing nervously. “Well… I don’t know exactly who yet… but I want to marry someone who’s stronger than me. That’s actually why I joined the Corps…”

He thought for a moment. “Gyomei is pretty strong.”

“Yes, but he’s a bit too old for me. And I… already have my eye on someone else!” Her blush grew as she admitted it.

“Who?”

Shaking her head rapidly, she waved him off with a gasp. “No! There’s no way I could tell you that! It’s too embarrassing! And how come you remember Gyomei’s name but you couldn’t remember me?!”

He shrugged. He’d finished his meal and glanced at the bed, debating whether he should rest before he left for his next mission.

Mitsuri smiled, eyes twinkling. "I think I should teach you a lesson! One that you'll never forget!" She exclaimed, shuffling closer to him.

"What do you mean?" 

"It's a method I've mastered over years of training. My—" She lunged at him, rapidly squeezing his sides,"—ultimate tickle attack!"

Muichiro gasped, his eyes widening as he burst into laughter, cringing away from her touch. "Whahat ahare yohohou dohoing?"

"I told you already! I'm teaching you a lesson!" She said, cooing at the adorable noises coming from the younger boy. 

He squirmed at the oddly familiar sensation. He recognized it—tickling—but couldn't quite place it in his memories; there was only a vague sense of warmth and longing. 

His instincts urged him to get away, but he was tired. He was tired, and his leg was injured, and it wasn't entirely unpleasant, and—and in his faint memories, there was only joy.

So he could let Mitsuri have a little fun.

"You're so cute! Cute! Cute! Cute!" She cheered, poking his ribs with each exclamation. 

He squeaked, swatting at her hands as she poked him, making him slowly slink to the ground. With a laugh, she eased his fall, cushioning his head and continuing her attack.

A flush spread across his cheeks, an odd embarrassment coursing through him at her teasing. Cute certainly wasn't a word often used to describe him. He was a Hashira, after all, and not even one of the nicer, bubblier ones like Mitsuri; if anything, she was the cute one. 

But her words didn't bother him as much as he thought they should. It made him oddly warm and light, almost as if he could float away, if not for the ticklish sensations keeping him grounded.

It seemed Mitsuri, who had been distracted by the adorable scene in front of her—Muichiro's reddening ears and cheeks, covered with stray strands of hair that splayed around him or the floor, face pulled into a bright, hesitant smile, his hands that clenched her sleeves, seemingly not intending to intervene with his torment, instead seeking to preoccupy themselves so as to not interrupt, his squirming was an unconscious movement, one that made him lurch and jump and squeak whenever she hit an especially bad spot, but never truly intended to get away—finally remembered what her objective had been with tickling Muichiro.

"Come on! Do you remember now? What's my name?" She cooed, digging into his stomach.

"Mihihi—" he let out a high-pitched noise, something like a squeal, when she moved closer to his bellybutton. 

"MihihitsuhuHUHUHU," he tried again, but the rest of his words were drowned out in loud, surprised laughter as she used one hand to scratch at his belly button, the other scribbling around his torso. That warm feeling spread across his entire body, as if he was enveloped in a hug.

"Mimitsu? Nope, sorry! That's not me!" She teased, giggling to herself and moving her hands down to pinch at his thighs, not wanting to overwhelm the poor boy. "I guess I'll have to keep tickling you until you remember!"

He was back to high-pitched, soft titters at her gentle tickling. Tears gathered in the corners of his eyes as he laughed; he was nearing his limit.

"Mihihitsuhuri!" 

"Yes! Great job, sweetie! And who am I?"

"Thehehe Lohohove Hahahashihira!"

She grinned, quickly scribbling her fingers under his chin before ceasing her tickling. "Mhm! I think you finally learned your lesson!"

He released her sleeves, giggling quietly to himself for another moment before wiping his eyes and sitting up. Immediately, Mitsuri pulled him into a tight hug, unable to contain her excitement. 

"That was so much fun!" She squealed, still holding him. "It wasn't too bad, was it?"

"No," he was smiling, but it was hard to tell if it was from her affection or a side effect of the tickling that had only just ended.

 Her smile only grew. She tightened her grip ever so slightly, and they stayed there for a long moment, her arms cradling the smaller boy while his cheek rested against her shoulder. Until she began absentmindedly playing with his hair, making him perk up and lightly shove her back to remove himself from the hug.

"Can you show me how to braid hair?"

She gasped, delighted. "Of course!"

It was slow work, teaching him, but Mitsuri was patient and kind and a good teacher, and by the end of it, Muichiro could make a semi-decent braid that she was more than happy to wear. She even gave Muichiro one afterwards, kissing his forehead and allowing him to inspect his new appearance in the mirror.

“Do I have to remind you that real weapons are off the table, Shinazugawa?” Gyomei smiled softly and Sanemi let go of the katana with a low growl.

“Relax, my not so flamboyant little friend!” Tengen gave Sanemi a pat on the back, only to pull his hand back immediately to avoid the following bite. “We haven’t tried everything yet, there’s no reason to resort to rule breaking. We’re gonna win this fair and square!”

“I cannot wait.” Gyomei was the embodiment of relaxation. “Although I may also remind you that this is not a competition, dear Uzui.”

“Of course this is a competition!” Sanemi spat and glared at the Sound Hashira. “Then tell me, dear Uzui, how we’re gonna win fair and square against this mountain!”

“Well, for one we could… hm.”

“What was that?”

“Hang on a second…”

“I’m listening.”

“Oh, that’s new.”

“HEY-”

Mitsuri drowned out the boys’ bickering for a moment and examined the clouds, thinking. It was no real surprise to her that it wasn’t easy to make the Stone Hashira lose balance, she just hadn’t anticipated it to be this hard. They were three against one, for heaven’s sake! It wasn’t even an actual fight, it was just Gyomei on a metal pole holding multiple weights in each hand! She looked up at him and felt her face flush with heat. He stood there like a statue, looking straight ahead!

Like a statue…?

“I got it!” Mitsuri chirped, twirling around to her fellow ‘most distracting Hashira’. Not a moment too early, apparently; Sanemi had his hands extended, reaching for Tengen’s throat, with Tengen pushing him back being the only thing that saved him from a gruesome death. Oh boy. No wonder Gyomei had been so confident to take them on, they made for a horrible team. But not for much longer! “Guys! Focus! I have the solution!”

“Kill-”

“Noo, nonono, not killing anyone!” Mitsuri put her hands on her hips and shot Sanemi a rebuking glare. “We don’t hurt each other, remember? Tengen, mind if I climb on your shoulders?”

“Of course not,” the Sound Hashira said, already scrambling down. Mitsuri heard Sanemi scoff and actively decided to not give a shit before quickly getting onto Tengen’s shoulders.

“Alright, now bring me closer to Gyomei. I’m gonna try tickling.”

Another scoff. “We already tried that, you dumb-”

“You might wanna watch your mouth around her, Shinazugawa.”

“Guys, please!” Mitsuri flicked her fingers against Tengen’s head and looked at Sanemi. “You’re right, we did. But we only tickled his torso for a bit and when that didn’t work, we didn’t try anything else.”

She was well aware that Gyomei was listening to every word she was saying, but it honestly didn’t matter. Knowing about what was gonna happen wouldn’t change the outcome: loss of balance. Mitsuri took a deep breath. It had to work!

Sanemi crossed his arms in front of his chest, following her with his eyes like a hawk. “And what should we have tried, in your expert opinion?”

“This.” With that, Mitsuri began to lightly scribble her nails over the sides of Gyomei’s neck. The ever so slight hint of a wince went through his body, aside from that he didn’t show any reaction whatsoever. That was alright. She could wait.

“Wow, impressive, it’s doing nothing.”

Mitsuri couldn’t help but roll her eyes a little. “Have you ever heard of patience, Shinazugawa? Just trust me.”

To be fair, if their roles had been reversed, she wouldn’t have had the biggest faith in the plan either. From her premium spot on Tengen’s shoulders though, she had an excellent view when Gyomei’s neck muscles tightened, when the corners of his mouth began to twitch. But when the first giggle slipped out, even Sanemi heard it.

Which didn’t mean that he was convinced yet. No, of course not, that would’ve been too easy. “Okay, he’s laughing. So? He did that before.”

“I told you to be patient, didn’t I!” Mitsuri increased her effort a little. Only to make Gyomei crumble faster and definitely not to prove a point to Sanemi. Ahem. Luckily, her plan didn’t take too much longer to unfold.

When it happened, Gyomei was far from out of breath, but his cheeks were tainted in a soft shade of pink and he was giggling without restraint. “Mihitsurihi- ghahaha, slohow dohohown…”

“Can’t do, sorry big guy,” she grinned, then she drilled her fingers into the especially sensitive spot right next to his collarbone and the Stone Hashira tilted his head with a soft squeak. Mitsuri let out a triumphant cheer. There it was. The key to victory.

“Dohon’t- yohou cahahan’t-” Gyomei’s head followed her hand when it wandered a bit to the front, his chin pressing down in an attempt to block the attack but only succeeding in trapping Mitsuri’s fingers where they happily wiggled and scribbled against the sensitive skin. “Eheheheek! Mitsurihi!”

“Ha! Gotcha now, big guy!” Deciding to up the level, she put her second hand into play to scribble on the other side of Gyomei’s neck, smiling in delight when the usually so calm warrior tilted his head to the side with a squeak, then back to her other hand and to the side again, trying to block everything at once. “Tengen, come on, help me!”

The former shinobi chuckled as he obliged, making the twitching and shifting increase in intensity. “Clever, Kanroji. You force him to move his head, which will make him lose balance, am I right?” Upon her nod he gave her leg a quick pat. “Excellent plan.”

“I mean, yeah, that’s all nice and fun, but what about me?” Sanemi stood next to Tengen, looking up at them with a scowl. “I don’t feel very included right now.”

Mitsuri was tempted to tell him that this was what he got for being so rude, but she knew exactly that she would never hear the end of it. “Don’t feel bad. You get to go for the kill, that’s the best part!”

“The kill?” Sanemi raised his eyebrows and looked at her, then his gaze wandered down Gyomei’s body and he pulled his lips into an evil smirk. “Oh. That kill.”

“Nohoho, dohon’t!” Gyomei snorted quietly. His face was flushed bright red by now, both from the tickling and the strain to keep his balance, and laughing tears were pricking in the corners of his eyes. “Stohop thihihis!”

“You know how to stop it, big guy,” Mitsuri whistled, her chest swelling with pride - her plan was working! “Or rather, we know how to stop this. Do it!”

A spasm went through Gyomei’s entire body and he let out something close to a cry when Sanemi’s fingers made contact with his knee. Mitsuri leaned back a little, trying to not abandon her own task and catch a glimpse of his work at the same time. To her surprise, Sanemi wasn’t squeezing the knee in that rough manner she was used to from him. Instead, he scribbled his fingers ever so softly over Gyomei’s stretched out knee cap, making the Stone Hashira snort and squeal repeatedly in between his laughs.

“AHA- Shihinazugahahawaha, plehehehease! Nahahat thehe knehehees!”

“You heard Kanroji, big guy,” Tengen trolled, “If you want this to stop, you gotta do it yourself.”

And then, finally, Gyomei made it stop.

The weights he had been holding dropped to the ground, almost smashing Sanemi and Tengen’s feet in the process, then the Stone Hashira quite literally stumbled off the metal pole to get away from the tickling as fast as possible. 

None of them bothered to try and keep it up. Mitsuri cheered and let herself get lifted further in the air by Tengen, then he put her down and gave her a double high five. Even Sanemi was grinning from ear to ear and hit her on the back. “Good job.”

“I have to agree, good job.” They all turned their attention towards Gyomei who was still a little flushed but had apparently caught his breath. “You managed to disturb me with something as simple as tickling.” He shook his head with a soft smile pulling at his lips, as if he was in disbelief over himself. “Well played.”

Mitsuri could sense Tengen and Sanemi tense up next to her and felt all color fade from her face when the soft smile suddenly turned into a mischievous smirk.