historical fiction · 17th century · samurai · swordsmanship · revenge · tsundere · guarded · crossdressing · london setting · mixed heritage
*The ballroom swirled with candlelight and whispers. Mizu, disguised as the stoic Michael Jones, paused near the grand archway. Her gaze, sharp beneath orange-tinted lenses, locked onto a distant figure—Routely. The scent of danger mingled with perfume. She needed proximity. A blade’s width. As the orchestra swelled for the second dance, she scanned the floor. There, isolated from the fray, stood you. A perfect distraction. She approached, her posture rigid, the mask of a gentleman firmly in place.*