It was one of those days where the sun was shining bright and Kuno Li envisaged the perfect spot for them to settle their cart with all the merchandise. Kuno sold a bit of everything, but amongst the best goods were the clothes and scarves that his daughter could make. She was a truly gifted tailor and so whenever possible he would trade in for the best fabrics, especially silks. That way he could sell dresses and suits not only among the pheasants but also the nobles or royalty even. He had been invited several times to the palace of Kutou by the Emperor himself so that his daughter made clothes for himself and his sisters, the lovely princesses that Miyu admired and was jealous of. Not because they were royalty but because of the beautiful family they had. It was something she had always been denied... She was with her father but it was such an alien concept for her, he had always given her everything she wanted but the affections and guidance of a paternal figure. She only enjoyed the company of her mother for four years and the fact that she was only a means to ensure the wellbeing of her island disgusted her greatly. And so she was disillusioned with her life and parents whom she truly did not know at all.

Her mother disposed of her just so she could continue with her way of life when her father tried to tie her to him. She knew her father had loved her mother but... it was not truly reciprocal so... Miyu felt lime the product of mere customs and so any sort of affection or fondness did not exist in her life. Kuno turned to look at his daughter and grunted, "Are you going to continue living in dreamworld instead of helping me get things ready? Great help you are." She shuddered at his words and was silent but she quickly got back to help him and laid the dresses to hang by the cart and then placed some of the jewels she had made on the front and then helped organise everything to look colourful, organised and lovely. She smiled satisfied with the result and then watched her father motion toward her lute, "It is a sunny day, music will make everyone know we arrived and we might get lucky and get invited to the palace."

She nodded silently at him and then took out a small folding chair and was about to sit down and play when Kuno shook his head, "Miyu, how are you to attract customers and find a suitor if you wear that pale white gown? Why don't you wear the one I got for your birthday? You will look lovely." She was not sure why but she shivered when he eyed her and winked at her. She silently sighed and moved inside their caravan and changed there into the light green gown that her father insisted on getting her back at Konan. She had to agree she quite liked it. It suited her well and she was sure that the way her hair was braided in a half ponytail with some small pigtails hidden in the braid made her look quite lovely. But he did not suggest this dress out of pride or love for his daughter. He seemed determined to get rid of her. She sighed and busied herself in ensuring she looked her best. Once she was done she placed a necklace on her neck and a bracelet on her wrist. She had made them both and liked them quite a lot they had shades of green in them and did not look too luxurious.

When she came out she moved to sit on the chair and then she took out her Chinese lute and looked around at the people as they passed by. Some would stop and whisper, she knew they ere talking of her beauty and charms and in a way it made her smile lightly but she looked down at her instrument and closing her eyes for a moment she began to play. This was one of the few things that kept her together: music. It filled her heart with all imaginable emotions and for a moment she felt in a beautiful world of her own where her life was different to what it now was. And at moments she saw them, her parents, happy, looking at her with pride and delight. She sighed as she played on, her fingers delicately stroking each string as if they were the most precious things to her. And perhaps they were at present. Soon the customers gathered and she played for hours, she kept her eyes closed so she would not roll her eyes at her father whenever he flirted with charm with the ladies and some of them bought eagerly from his stock and even invite him to spend the night at their houses. That would mean they would stay there for a long time, she concentrated on the beauty she created with her fingers.

She had reached a point where she no longer cared. She still felt hurt that he would spend all his life in flaming riches and enjoying the warmth of a woman at night, instead of focusing to be a father. But she learned form an early age that she was not wanted at all. A girl passed by and told her mother that Miyu was an angel and it made her smile and slowly open her eyes, they sparkled gold-amber almost red and she gave her her loveliest smile. Her father seemed happy and at least that meant they were earning money and he would not use up his time to hurt her. She still could not believe her luck, if she were to leave she would have no place to go, she would not go to that forsaken island, she disliked both of her parents.

Her father nodded that she could stop playing and she sighed and put her instrument away. Just as she was coming out of their caravan she felt a presence and looked to her right. Her day could not get any worse. Of all the persons who insisted in courting her, it seemed that Kaien, a Kutou Captain soon learned that they were back in town. This would please her father, the Emperor would surely learn of their location. But she did not want to have to stand him at present. So she pretended not to have seen him and decided to fill some canteens with water. There was a nearby stream in the forest just next to this square and so she went into the forest without another word. He smirked and jumped off his horse and followed her. How she wished he would’t…

His deep blue eyes shone as he said, “An angel indeed, my lady, you have blossomed overnight… Now you could easily be compared to a goddess.” She rolled her eyes but he soon caught up with her and walked beside her so she took a deep breath and then smiled at him sweetly, “Captain Kaien, it is good to know you are in excellent health.” Not really…at least she wished he had been sent to another city… Why did he need to annoy her of all women? Weren’t enough lovely ladies in Kutou? He smiled at her and picked her canteens for her and she smiled in gratitude although she wished he had not done so. He then filled them for her on the river and finally took her hand in his and kissed the back of it, his eyes never leaving hers. She blushed lightly but felt truly nervous. She knew what he was about to attempt as he moved closer but instead she took the canteens from his hands and said, “I need to help father with the shop, I just needed to get some water.”

He smiled down at her and ran a finger through her cheek. She felt her body tense and then turned to leave. They were standing on a cliffside and as he moved to grab her by the wrist, in an attempt to avoid him she dropped the canteens on the ground when she lost balance and slipped down the cliff. She felt fear take her but the shock was so great that she suddenly realised that she was about to pass out. It was also the air pressure, she could not longer breathe and then panicked but she made use of her last resource and drawing her whip she launched her arm and it just managed to take hold of a rock. She then dared not look down, she knew her life hung by a thread now. She tried to climb up the whip but it seemed to lose grip was she moved so she decided against it, but then, when Kaien tried to get down to help her, some rocks fell toward her as a reaction to his sudden climb down sliding on them.

A rock hit her head and her hand let go of the handle of her whip. And the world went black and she knew nothing else, she just fell…

Kouhei had been enduring a self-imposed isolation for several months. There was little difference between his current situation, and the way he usually lived during times of peace...except that he was going out of his way to avoid humans. He was being punished for something he'd had no hand in, and that angered him. If he was to set eyes on a mortal, he would be forced to protect them for one year, and he didn't see that any mortal was worth the attentions of a god of War. He was a warrior, a demigod, and the son of Seriyuu, the blue dragon. Surely no human alive deserved such a bodyguard.

It was the reason he'd cursed Hinote's name every day since his punishment had been issued by Suzaku. If that worrisome fire goddess had just learned to leave him be, none of this would've happened, and he could've lived as he always did. No, he didn't think he could avoid all mortals for the rest of his life, but he did figure he could put it off quite a while and prove to Hinote that she still did not have the upper hand. Rishiara, the closest thing he had to a friend, was fond of telling him when he was being foolish, and she thought his current behavior was one of those times. She often pointed out that a year was a very short time for one like them, and that he'd do better to find a human and get it over with.

Rishiara didn't understand, however. She could not. She actually seemed to like mortals, and spent all of her time among them, especially her father's Seishi through the generations. Didn't she realize they weren't worth getting attached to, and it would just be better to spare herself the heartache when they inevitably died?

He pushed the thoughts from his mind and tried to enjoy his walk in the woods. He was far enough in that no humans ever came this far. He was sure that the fact that he was at the base of a steep cliff helped as well. He stood for a long moment, his eyes closed, as he listened to the music of nature...the lovely birds and the tinkling of the water in the stream. He then heard a cry, and he looked instinctively, nearly slapping his forehead when he did. His eyes landed on a mortal girl with long pink hair dangling from the end of a rope...no, a whip. Great. His punishment had started, since he'd seen the girl, and laready she was in danger of getting herself killed and ruining his life while she was at it. He heard someone else, and lookedu p to see a man tying to climb down to help her. He must be as foolish as she was. The cliff was too steep to climb down, and the only safe way to reach the bottom was to go back and find the-well hidden-path that led down to the base.

Kouhei growled in annoyance and moved to help her. She was close enough to the bottom that he should be able to catch her, if she could just hold on until he reached her. He watched some rocks fall and strike her, and knew the instant that they did that she would lose consciousness. He broke into a run, and just managed to dive to catch her, cursing the girl, the foolish man, and Hinote as he did so, grumbling under his breath. It was a bad injury, and could be life threatening.

"Just great..." He complained, though the girl could not hear him. He would have to heal her, or risk her dying within the first five minutes of him protecting her. He carefully laid the girl on her back on the ground, and then crouched beside her. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. He'd be horribly weak after this, and he hated to think of that. Opening his eyes, he placed a hand on her forehead and began to focus his healing energies.

As he did, he looked her over. She was pretty, he supposed, for a human, and he'd never seen that shade of hair before. He wondered where she was from, and if it was common there. He'd traveled a lot over his long lifetime, visiting all four Empires as well as many of the smaller nations, with a few obvious exceptions. Still, he preferred Kutou. It was his home, and his father's land, and it just made sense to stay there.

All of this was to distract him from his annoyance at having to heal the girl, but soon he was done and she was completely healed. It was almost as if none of it had ever happened, and she should be waking up soon. He pulled his hand back, but stayed crouched there, waiting for her to wake up so he could tell her how foolish she'd been. Who had a lover's spat on the edge of a cliff?

Oh, he'd forgotten about the man. He wondered what he made of all of this. Kouhei looked up at the cliff, and spotted her whip still hanging form a rock. He sent a very small, very controlled Aura Blast at it, breaking the rock and causing the whip to fall and land beside the girl. He picked up up to examine it, and was surprised to see a dragon. He rolled it up and laid it back beside her before looking at her once more.

Miyu was not sure what happened after she lost consciousness but she could have sworn she felt something, like magic. Something that moved inside her and she no longer felt pain and she slowly began to become aware of her surroundings. Her head still felt like it was spinning but she was beginning to hear the sounds of nature: the strong breeze that caressed her long pink hair, the chirping of the birds nearby, the clear sound of water cascading down not too far form where she laid and then slowly remembered what had happened and though she had finally met her doom. Slowly she gasped and her body stirred but her eyes did not open. It only took a couple of more minutes for her to finally open her eyes and she blinked a couple of times to focus her sight once more. She turned her head slightly to her left where her whip was and she was surprised it was there when she knew she had let go of it when she fell. She could see the rocks that fell, one had hit her head when that foolish Kaien tried to climb down to help her. Why did he not go back to do his job as a Captain instead? She wanted to avoid him at all costs. She heard breathing and finally turned to look to her other side.

At first all she could see was a beautiful beam of bright light, it was red and shone with such strength she blinked another time, but then the light diminished and she saw a young man looking down at her. Had he saved her? He had a deep red colour of hair and interesting amber reptile-like eyes, she had never seen anyone the likes of him before and she had travelled all about the Four Kingdoms. He looked strong so she took it he was a warrior of some sort. He was handsome, she decided, for a warrior…but she hoped he was not like Kaien and asked her to marry her after saving her life. The Captain had done so literally…and she had hated it. She placed a hand on her forehead and slowly moved to lean her weight on her elbows before she finally began to sit back. He saved her life, but she was certain she and hit her head, why did she feel no blood touching her head?

“I could have sworn I hit my head… how did it happen?” Her eyes looked deeply into his own and she said, “Are you… a Seishi or something?” She remembered the light and usually Seishi were surrounded by light but that was ridiculous she was no miko or Seishi so why would she see the light? Her hair shook elegantly as she move her hand to take her whip and then placed it on her belt back in its place. She heard someone approaching at a run and she rolled her eyes and sighed deeply. Why did he not just leave when she fell? Did he truly have to continue playing the enamoured Captain? She wanted to just get up and run away but she knew that would be rude of hr and then the Captain would complain t the Emperor and then no one would buy their merchandise in this country again. Sometimes she wondered if that was the very reason Kaien thought he had a right to make advances on her…

She only hoped that he would not dare be so bold when in the company of another man. Kaien looked down at her as she approached at a run and then he looked form her to the man crouching beside her, “My lady, has he hurt you?” He eyed the man darkly and placed his hand on the hilt of his katana. She ran a hand through her face avoiding his eyes for a moment before she finally shook her head, he truly unnerved her, “He saved me, Captain, I am fine though, thank you for your concern, but I would not like to keep you from your duties any longer. Please feel free to go back and send my regards to the Emperor.”

She could see it in his eyes, that wish to embrace her and kiss her, but he merely approached and took her hand and kissed the back of it, he then smiled, “I am glad you are unharmed, Miyu…” her eye twitched, who gave him permission to utter her name with no formality? How dare he make the other man think they were close when they truly weren’t? The moment he turned she began to clean the part of her hand he had kissed. She was sure that that night he would go back to the caravan and annoy her further. Once he was out of sighed she took a deep breath and released it with exasperation. What was it about men that made them think you loved them and wanted them close when you were doing everything at hand to move away form them? To avoid them? To keep them far?

Kaien was not happy at all. Why did that man have to interfere when he had the upper hand and could have simply taken her back after healing her and tell her father that they were to be wedded? Surely anyone would suspect that something had happened between them in the forest…but now, now he had to return to his duties and be a laughing stock. Was the lady playing with his designs? He would have her know, at some point, that he was no one to be trifled with.

“I could have sworn I hit my head… how did it happen? Are you… a Seishi or something?”

Kouhei scoffed. Why did humans always assume he was a Seishi? Did any Seishi have eyes like his? He was about to answer her when he heard someone approaching. It must be that fool who'd tried to climb down after her. It looks like he'd finally used his brain and found the path down to the base of the cliff. He smirked lightly and raised an eyebrow when the man placed a hand on his sword. Kouhei knew he could strike this fool down with one finger.

“My lady, has he hurt you?”
“He saved me, Captain, I am fine though, thank you for your concern, but I would not like to keep you from your duties any longer. Please feel free to go back and send my regards to the Emperor.”
“I am glad you are unharmed, Miyu…”

Kouhei felt quite uncomfortable with this man's attentions toward the girl...but by the way she wiped her hand off when his back was turned, she did as well. So her name was Miyu? He shrugged, watching the man go before speaking at last. "No, mortal, I am not a Seishi." He hoped that would draw a clear line for her. He was not mortal, and had no desire to be mistaken for one. "I am Kouhei, son of Seriyuu and god of War." He paused for a moment, feeling quite pleased with how impressive it all sounded. He stood and looked down at the human girl for a moment.

"Are you really such a fool you would throw yourself from a cliff to avoid that man? Had I not come along and healed you, you would've been dead by the time loverboy reached you." It was beneath him, really, to help a mortal girl to her feet, but if he was to protect her for the next year, he supposed he'd have to do many things that were beneath him, or risk loosing his imortality as well as his powers. He held his hand out to help her up. "I do hope that you do not expect me to kiss your hand and fawn over you as he did."

Once she was standing, he removed his hand and crossed his arms. "Because you saw fit to go wandering around the woods, and falling off cliffs, I am now forced to carry out a punishment I do not deserve." He took a deep breath and sighed. He may as well tell her what he had to do for the next year, and get it out of the way. Even if she refused his protection, he would be forced to sneak about like a lovesick puppy and guard her from the shadows.

"I am forced for the next year to protect the first mortal I see. That is you, Miyu." He did not presume closeness when he spoke her name without title...rather, he felt as a mortal she deserved no title from him, and the distinction was clear in his tone. "Do not presume I do so out of kindness...it is simply that if I do not, my life and powers are forefit."

He blinked at her once, as if trying to guage her reaction. "Please to not make this any more difficult than it must be." He could tell already that she was young and impulsive. He hated when he had to deal with soldiers like that, and he was sure human girls were even worse...

Miyu almost grunted at Kauhei for mocking her as she spoke, how was she to know who or what he was unless he told her so? It wasn’t like she lived her life with powerful beings and at least with her words she ensured he knew she had seen a light, right? She was not sure why but she had an inkling this young man would be just like her father, someone to anger her morning and night and so she decided that after voicing her gratitude she would turn and leave, otherwise it would be bad news. And she was in no meed to entertain, she did not mind voicing her thoughts as spoiled as that sounded she had never received anything nice from life aside from a way of life that in reality she would be unable to carry out on her own. The life of a merchant was devised so women could not achieve it. And so her father wanted to force her to marry someone, and, in all honesty, she had reached the point where she would decide what she did with her life, she could not have either of her parents dictating her future for her, she simply could not have it. The strange man remained silent until the Captain left and she feared she would prefer him being quiet…

There was just something about him that she could not quite place but it would come back to her she was sure. Now that the light no longer shone within him she could see his eyes more clearly and they seemed to be a similar colour to her own but his were unlike any she had ever seen before. Judging by the way he looked at her, almost as if she were troy undeserving of looking into his eyes, she began to fear she did not want to know who he was or what he did. It was almost as if she would disintegrate if she learned what he was. Strange that she should feel that way but he was not giving her nice looks either, he looked truly angry, mad, and she did not know why or what she could have done for him to give her such dark looks. Did she say something while she was unconscious? She was sure she did not…

"No, mortal, I am not a Seishi…I am Kouhei, son of Seriyuu and god of War.”

A…god? She raised an eyebrow and looked at him intently. She guess that explained the beam of light and how arrogant he was. She could tell he was pleased by his title but she never found war something to be proud of. She looked at him in disbelief at how he simply called her a mortal as if he had just had bad soup. It made her feel rather angry, who did he think he was? God or not, he had no right to be so disparaging, it wasn’t as if she had freely chosen to be a mortal and to live this life. It was decided then, she would not stay in his company much longer and she decide she would not thank him, since it was such a pain to him having saved her. Could this truly be taken for a rescue though? She was lying on the grass, he had not even placed a cloak to make her feel truly comfortable. No, he was a self-centred person or even worse, just the way he scoffed and looked at her, his ego had no limits. She crossed her arms across her chest and looked at him silently before saying, “I see…” Oh yes, she could even sound unimpressed if she so wished but she would not suddenly fall on her knees and bow before him for being a god, as much as he could expect her to do so…she could play the game of stubbornness.

“Are you really such a fool you would throw yourself from a cliff to avoid that man? Had I not come along and healed you, you would've been dead by the time loverboy reached you.”

She rolled her eyes, seriously? He had not seen what transpired back at the cliff and he was already judging her? She could not believe her ears, “First of all, you are a lousy hero,” She then fixed her eyes upon his as they began to look a redder shade of colour the more passionate she got as she spoke, “You have no idea what happened up there so why do you insult me before asking? And I did not throw myself to avoid him, I happened to slip, which is completely the opposite to falling and causing a tantrum. I may have needed help then but I am not a pathetic creature.” She then added a bit more sharply, “In any case you have no idea what it is like to be harassed morning and night by his ilk…” She ran a hand through her lovely pink hair and her fringe moved back into place before she took a deep breath. She could not bother with him and she decided she would just leave. But no, he would not be silent, he spoke again and it angered her even more…

“I do hope that you do not expect me to kiss your hand and fawn over you as he did.”

She smirked, “You are one charming god, are you not?” She then said threateningly, “Do I look like the kind of person who enjoys that? Perhaps I should so your conceptions were right for once… I any case, don’t you dare get any close to me.” She eyed him, yes he was handsome but he was dead annoying, “Anyway, you are definitely not my type so don’t waste your energies…” Two could play his game and though she was not as egotistical as he was, she still had her own degree of pride. She would not let anyone stumble on her no matter what creature she faced or how much power that person had. She moved to clean her clothes and hair and ensured everyone was in place. She did not want to forget anything and then have to return to this insipid place as sour as the men she was now talking to.

“Because you saw fit to go wandering around the woods, and falling off cliffs, I am now forced to carry out a punishment I do not deserve.”

What? Now his problems are all her fault? He was certainly being unfair and she did not like that. She had an accident like anyone else could, so why was he lecturing her over something that could not be helped? Besides, the past is dead and buried it could not be reclaimed. Otherwise she would have avoided falling so she id not have to meet such a sort character. No wonder he was alone, he was unbearable! She decided she would let him talk though, because she had a feeling what he was a bout to tell her would ensure she knew his position but she still planned to give him a piece of his mind.

"I am forced for the next year to protect the first mortal I see. That is you, Miyu.”

She raised an eyebrow… she would have to stand him fora whole year? This had to be a nightmare she could not wake up from. “Why is it my fault that you got punished in the first place? Go and complain to whoever did this to you but don’t come here feeling superior to me and then lecture me that you have to do something because of me, I was not planning to fall form the cliff exactly as she passed along. What makes you think you are so amazing or appealing and that I should kneel before you and beg for forgiveness… unbelievable… And she truly had to stand him for a whole long year? Really? And then he spoke her name so informally and with such disdain, as if the sound of it caused him pain or disgust. She really did not want to have to stand him for a whole year.

“Do not presume I do so out of kindness...it is simply that if I do not, my life and powers are forefit.”

She rolled her eyes and sighed, “I expect kindness form no one, least of al you.” he never experienced an act of kindness, with the exception of her martial arts instructor and weapons master. But that was many years ago and she was soon thrown back into her solitary existence. She really considered just turning down his offer to help her and suggest he retuned to the lands of gods and protected a goddess, since that would please him more…

”Please to not make this any more difficult than it must be.”

“I’m not the one making it difficult, you are doing an extraordinary job yourself.” She then turned and began to walk, “If you are coming with me we should head back now, my father will be furious if I don't help him with the merchandise.” He would probably want her to play her lute once more, and how would she explain this strange young man was only there to protect her? Surely he would think that…

As they arrived, Kuno looked truly irked and he walked toward his daughter, “Where have you been? I gave you five minutes, and what have you done to your hair and dress? You ooh filthy… go change and then play…” Before he dismissed her completely he noticed Kouhei and looked him over for a moment before smiling, “I see…So there is finally a man bold enough to challenge your stubbornness daughter? I am glad you finally accepted this fate and settled down, don’t you think? It is not as hard as it looks…” Miyu could not believe her ears and she gasped in annoyance, “Father, what are you talking about, he is just…”

He pointed to the caravan for her to go and get changed and she sighed and rolled her eyes moving toward the caravan. It was one of those moments where she wished the earth swallowed her whole. Why did her father think such nonsense? And wasn’t here father supposed to learn more about the man before making such assumptions? Did he not see how far away the were form each other when walking? Had he done mad already? Her father winked at Kouhei and said, “You won’t regret it young man, she is quite a catch…”

“I see…”

Kouhei was a little annoyed. She hears that he's a god, and all he gets is "I see"? Nothing more...exciting. Usually people at least expressed a little surprise at being face-to-face with a god. This human girl really was a bratty child. How had she ever ended up with any suitor, even one as annoying as she was?

“First of all, you are a lousy hero, You have no idea what happened up there so why do you insult me before asking? And I did not throw myself to avoid him, I happened to slip, which is completely the opposite to falling and causing a tantrum. I may have needed help then but I am not a pathetic creature. In any case you have no idea what it is like to be harassed morning and night by his ilk…”

Kouhei raised an eyebrow. Was she...lecturing him? Really? No one had ever done that...not even his mother. He felt a prick at his pride when she called him a lousy hero. "You're not dead, so I'd say I did a good job saving you. You're not even hurt...which is because I used my own energy to heal you. Completely." Didn't she realize he didn't have to do so? He could've used just enough to stop the bleeding or close the wounds. Granted, he'd done that so she wouldn't die of infection in a week or so, but there was no need to point that out at present. He ignored her next words about slipping, as he felt it would do no good to point out that it was foolish to be close enough to the edge to slip anyway. At her last words, however, his eyes narrowed slightly. "Do not presume to know what I do and do not understand, child. I have lived lifetimes longer than you, and my experience is vast." Her words reminded him of his current situation with Hinote. His annoyance caused him to speak without thinking, and so he said something he didn't intend to. "I'll have you know I've been pestered by a goddess the last fifty years or so who's decided if I will not be her lover, she'd just as soon destroy me. At least your suitor does not try to have you killed." As he said this, his voice was low. He realized a second too late what he'd revealed about himself, and he looked away from her for a moment. This human didn't need to know his personal problems.

“You are one charming god, are you not? Do I look like the kind of person who enjoys that? Perhaps I should so your conceptions were right for once… I any case, don’t you dare get any close to me. Anyway, you are definitely not my type so don’t waste your energies…”

"War is not a charming thing, so why should the god of it be so?" He countered coolly. He snorted when she told him not to get closer to her. As if he wanted to. He'd happily be back at his home if she hadn't come along...at her last words, however, he was puzzled. Her...'type'? What did that mean? Her type of what? Despite himself, he allowed his confusion to show on his face for a moment. He was too proud to ask, however, so he looked away and said nothing.

“Why is it my fault that you got punished in the first place? Go and complain to whoever did this to you but don’t come here feeling superior to me and then lecture me that you have to do something because of me, I was not planning to fall form the cliff exactly as she passed along. What makes you think you are so amazing or appealing and that I should kneel before you and beg for forgiveness… unbelievable…"

Did she not see why he blamed her? He spoke slowly, trying to reign in his annoyance before he said or did something he didn't wish to. The less she really knew about him, the happier he'd be. "I came out here because it's far enough from human settlements that I should be able to stay for some time without seeing a mortal...and here I am, just a few months in, and you happen along. Forgive me if I begrudge the fact that I'm being punished for something I did not do, and am being forced to protect someone who obviously would not appreciate it." He shook his head and raised an eyebrow. "Besides, how does one complain to Suzaku when you do not think he is treating you fairly?" Surely now she would understand the difficult situation he was in...

“I expect kindness form no one, least of al you.”

Again, despite himself, he was confused. To hear Rishiara talk, humans were kind and loving creatures who looked out for one another and expected others to treat them as they were treated...and yet this girl seemed to be the exact opposite. He wondered briefly what had happened to her to make her feel this way, but he pushed it aside. It had nothing to do with his mission, and he didn't need to know to keep her safe for the next year.

“I’m not the one making it difficult, you are doing an extraordinary job yourself. If you are coming with me we should head back now, my father will be furious if I don't help him with the merchandise.”

He didn't think he was contradictory in the slightest. He had to protect her, but that didn't mean he had to like it, or even be nice to her. He was a bit annoyed when she took charge and decided they were leaving, and he growled softly before setting out after her, stalking angrily. He kept an eye on her, but otherwise there was nothing to indicate they were walking together, as much distance as he let fall between them. As they walked, he listened to the stream, and the sound of the water relaxed him slightly. It always had a calming effect on him. By the time they left the woods, he decided he could handle whatever this woman threw at him. He also decided, whether or not she liked it, he would protect her, and keep watch over her. She wasn't worth losing his powers, after all.

“Where have you been? I gave you five minutes, and what have you done to your hair and dress? You ooh filthy… go change and then play… I see…So there is finally a man bold enough to challenge your stubbornness daughter? I am glad you finally accepted this fate and settled down, don’t you think? It is not as hard as it looks…”
“Father, what are you talking about, he is just…”
“You won’t regret it young man, she is quite a catch…”

For the third time in a very short period of time, Kouhei was confused, and he really didn't like the feeling. What were they talking about? He felt as if he was missing something when the man winked at him, but upon hearing his words figured he'd somehow heard about the events at the cliff. "I did catch her..." He said, figuring the man wanted confirmation that he had saved her.

It was then that he realized that Miyu had slipped off. He could not protect her if he could not keep watch over her. Without another word to the man-after all, he too, was mortal, and not really worth explaining his actions to-Kouhei set out after her. He looked at the caravan for a moment before entering himself in search of his reluctant charge. "Miyu?" His eyes landed on her, and he realized she was in the middle of changing. His eyes, trained for battle to take in every detail at a glance, decided she wasn't entirely unattractive...for a mortal. Still, he glanced away. "If I am to protect you, you cannot simply go off without me. If something happens when I am not near enough to intervene, the consequences could be dire for us both."

She could have grinned at how annoyed he looked when she showed no shock or surprised upon learning that he was a god. Truth be told, she did not intentionally mean to annoy him but she never showed great interest on those who annoyed her and they only just met. Things could not get worse than that, right? She had wanted to be polite and thank him for being so mindful but he had ruined that by talking like some spoked sport. Surely no one liked him when he moved about and overwhelmed him with his snobbery. No wonder he was so lonely and surely he would pretend he liked being that way. Still, she could not be bothered with someone as unbearable as him so the sooner he was out of her hair the better. She had other things to worry about, her father for one, surely he would have exchanged a few words with the Captain and would be impatient if she did not get back soon. And looking at her clothes she knew he would chastise her for getting this dress in particular so dirty, but she was a tailor she could fix it in no time. At least she prided herself in it. He raised an eyebrow as she spoke, she only deemed it natural to express her opinions and he had fed the fire so once she started she would not stop.

"You're not dead, so I'd say I did a good job saving you. You're not even hurt...which is because I used my own energy to heal you. Completely.”

She sighed in annoyance, he did not understand what she meant right? She had to explain everything to him it seemed, could such a dumb person truly be a god? Or was he bluffing just to get something from her? She looked into his eyes and said, “While you might have done all that and I was ready to thank you, your pedantic attitude ruined the moment.” She could not stop herself from smirking and adding, “By the way, don’t frown so much or you will get worry lines on your forehead and surely that would be quite a blow to your godly self-esteem.” In all honesty she should not expect him to be nice, of all people. She never received a honest smile or a caress in her life, not even form her own parents and her father reminded her every day that she was not wanted, that she was the reason her mother had abandoned her and that if she had never been born he would be happy with her mother and would not have to look after her and feed her and clothe her or even bother securing her future when she was unwilling to cooperate. But he never say that all she wanted was his fatherly love, to feel save in the hearth of a family, wether her mother abandoned them or not, she wanted them to be a real family. But alas, he soon took up comfort in his casanova nature and it only pushed her further away and now, she was nothing but a burden. Sometimes she wondered if… if she died then all this would be over, not only for her but for her father and then he could be happy with his depraved lifestyle.

"Do not presume to know what I do and do not understand, child. I have lived lifetimes longer than you, and my experience is vast.”

She sighed and shook her head, “You might have lived hundred or thousands of years but your experience is quite limited, you probably lived as a hermit all that time and never interacted with anyone who was not ‘worthy’ f your company, according to you. So how is that experience useful? And I am not a child, I am way past that age.” It was clear to him he had no people skills and did not develop them due to his egotistical nature, surely he felt even gods were not worth his effort. So how could he deem he knows what she did or why? What gives him the luxury of criticising the things she did when he was not wearing her shoes. She was tired of having people judge her, not try to understand her position and simply taking her for a spoiled brat when, she truly did not know how else to behave. She was lost in many ways and doubted she could ever experience what others did so she resigned to living this life for what it was.

"I'll have you know I've been pestered by a goddess the last fifty years or so who's decided if I will not be her lover, she'd just as soon destroy me. At least your suitor does not try to have you killed.”

She looked into his eyes for a moment and she saw intense anger. He was not lying and for one she knew that although annoying he always spoke the truth and always voiced his mind. She could not stand those who pretended and hid their ulterior motives which was why she suspected Kaien was after her for other reasons but she could not yet discover what they were. It also made her rather uncomfortable to be around him and, she knew he could make her father lose customers in the whole kingdom if she did anything to displease him. He had just revealed something he probably did not want her to know but, she blinked and looked at the grass, she felt obliged t share some of her own and perhaps that would make him feel less depended of speaking his troubles with her around, “I… I honestly do not know the motives for the Captain to insist on courting me. But I feel I cannot trust him, and something in him makes me fear what he might be capable of if I ever try and flee… you know? He could even make my father unwelcome in the whole kingdom and that would reduce his income and the amour of customers he has, we earns great profit from selling his goods in Kutou.” She played nervously with a lock of hair still not looking up, and then she took in the information he had given her.

She took one step forward and finally turned to look at him, “Is she the one that… that got you in trouble and blamed you for something you did not do?” Well, if he had to protect her for a whole year to clean his name and reputation, she was not that heartless. She looked away and hated to accept his aid but, well, if that would help him even the score with that goddess then she would allow him to follow her around for one year, that might also scare her suitors away, although Kaien might take this as a direct challenge and that was what scared her. “Fine, I will let you protect me for one year…” he might laugh at her trying to help him in return but she could not stop herself form saying, “It might be a good idea to try and clear your name in the mean time, so that when you go back to your father you can prove to be the better man and complete the sentence and at the same time pose your innocence and… I can help if you need me to.” Maybe it would be fun to do something different for once, especially something out of the boring habit of selling and scaring suitors away, honestly, that was no life.

She still did not understand how a god could be killed but then maybe being exposed to his divine nature ensured he knew things mortals ignored. “Can you actually kill a god?” She never heard of such thing. But she did not want to sound too ignorant or he would pick at her pride and she would just turn and change her mind about him and just leave him to be miserable…

"War is not a charming thing, so why should the god of it be so?”

For a slight moment she wondered if he was as lonely as her and that was why he spoke the way he did. But soon that thought left her mind and she simply shrugged, in all honestly his way of thought seemed rather prehistoric. Why judge yourself for what you were in the eye of the world? “A god of War may look like a formidable warrior and might be a deadly foe. But that does not make you who you are, your attributes, profession, lifestyle does not make you “Kouhei” but what you are within, that is the real person waiting to come out.” She thought for a moment and smiled briefly but her smile faded and she looked away, “At least that is what my Shifu always used to say.” He had been the best Kung Fu Shifu in the four kingdoms, at least that was her opinion, but her father never liked her learning to fight. She rubbed an arm as she looked distant to an age where she recalled the only fond memories of her life. She wondered if he still lived and where he could be now. He had been the closest thing she had ever had to a father, a brother and a friend. When her eyes looked at him again they were slightly less red and more golden, and she wondered if he looked… confused? Was he so dumb he did not understand her words? Or did he simply have no experience with emotions whatsoever?

She decided she would not be mean and define what someone’s “type” was so that she did not offend his extra-large ego. She did not want to have someone chastising her for a whole year. It would pass quickly, she simply had to busy herself more than usual and ignore both her father and this “god of War” and the year would be up before she knew it. Then she would be back to her usual boring life. It wasn’t like she wished to be spoiled but, for one she did not want to please her father into marrying someone and two, she did not want to marry for the mere sake of it. She would be stuck with that person for the rest of her life, she seriously wanted to be able to feel something for that person and so far, she still waited for that spark in her heart to lit up.

"I came out here because it's far enough from human settlements that I should be able to stay for some time without seeing a mortal...and here I am, just a few months in, and you happen along. Forgive me if I begrudge the fact that I'm being punished for something I did not do, and am being forced to protect someone who obviously would not appreciate it.”

So he planned to run away from the punishment? She took another step forth and this time she stood in front of him, even if she was shorter her eyes blazed with anger at being thus insulted. “First of all, I did not know you would be walking about, so it is not my fault. Second of all, it sound more like you are taking the easy way out and not facing this punishment. If you are innocent you should not care if you have to do whatever it takes to clean your name and prove them wrong, gods or not they will abide to their rules and if you succeed then whoever blamed you will be disposed of the trust they granted that person. And do you honestly think you could have lived hundreds of years hiding here without eventually bumping into someone? I say you accept this sentence, get on with it and move one and stop acting like a child! And don’t you dare insult me, I would show gratitude if you showed a tiny bit or respect, if you were so concerned with the person you would have to protect, why did you not look for one of the Princesses of Kutou or even go in search of a lovely innocent maiden who will praise you and feed your ego every single day?”

"Besides, how does one complain to Suzaku when you do not think he is treating you fairly?”

She turned away and sighed, “You are a god, not a mortal so you should have more favour among them. In any case with the current situation even the gods have to work together so, if you found a way to prove your innocence even Suzaku could not stand a chance. But I do not know much, I honestly do not hold too much respect toward any divinity, even they ignored my prayers back then…” she remember how she had prayed to them when she was a child, that her life could be better, that she could make their parents be together and her father to love her… but they never came to her aid, they never answered her call. “But I stopped praying and moved on.” And she still hated her life completely.

"I did catch her…”

Kuno Li smiled eagerly at the young man, he eyed him and he truly liked what he say. He looked strong and athletic so he had to be a warrior and the way he conduced himself, he look so regal… he must be a Prince or a noble or something. And he admitted he had never seen the likes of him before, that intense tone of hair and those piercing eyes, yeah, he was a good match for his daughter and he was a bit impressed when he spoke, so he captured her affections so easily? “I’ll have you know, many tried to capture her affections and failed all these years, I was beginning to fear she would never pledge her affections to anyone…” He walked toward the young warrior and placed a hand on his shoulder smiling, “I entrust her to you, she is rather annoying so she will need someone with a strong temperament to keep her at bay…” He chuckled and then said, “I will be watching you.” He probably did not know what the man meant but, if he saw intense sparkles he would suggest an early engagement so that his father could not get rid of this suitor as she did with everyone else. If it was official then she was screwed.

He then removed his hand and bowed his head slightly, “By the way, that Kutou Captain told me you saved her from a cliff, I dare say that gives you many points in your favour. Keep up the good work lad and if you like you can travel with us for some time to win her over.” He winked at him and then moved to continue with tending to his customers, he had only taken short break to eat something. He truly did not mind having an extra mouth to feed if that wold lead to his father finally falling for a man and marrying. He watched him turn and leave and he grinned, yes, he would win her over in no time…

“Miyu?”

She gasped upon hearing his voice and her eyes burned in anger as he looked down at her, she was in the middle of changing and her back was completely exposed to his eyes. Luckily she had turned just in time for him to come in, so that he did not look at her front, she quickly put on the sleeves of the dress and began to button the back angrily, “Are you some sort of perverted god or something?” She decided she would not tell her father that he was a god and had to protect her, otherwise he would then force them to marry so that he could boast that his father had charmed a god. She sighed and finished dressing and then put everything away. This would certainly change her life completely…

”If I am to protect you, you cannot simply go off without me. If something happens when I am not near enough to intervene, the consequences could be dire for us both.”

She could not avoid thinking about the way he had looked at her, did he find her attractive? She was not sure why but it made her heart feel slightly warm because he liked her even if he did not admit it. She smiled at herself before she reached out for her lute which was in its bag and then she turned toward him, he spoke once more and she felt angered and her cheeks reddened although she was not sure why that happened. “I said I would let you protect me but… there are moments when I need privacy and this was one of them. What would you do if I saw you completely exposed?” she sighed she could not be bothered with arguing with this man and so she said, “At least knock before entering or turn around whenever I need to get changed or something…” She only hoped he would not insist to watch over her while she bathed, that would just be too much…

She finally took another wooden chair and unbent it and placed it next to her own for him to sit if he so wished, it was when placing her lute next to her that she realised that, probably when he moved to save her, he had scratched his cloak on the neck, she looked at it for a moment and could not help herself, she took out her small box and reluctantly moved her hand to the scratched piece of fabric and her eyes looked up at him so that he would not think she was trying anything strange, “I am a tailor, I can fix this and leave it like new just… don’t move ok?” She took out her needle and found a thread of the same colour as the cloak and she slowly worked into mending it giving it a slight fold that looked elegant and hid the fact that it had been scratched, it could easily be taken as a newly bought cloak. She smiled at her work and then put everything away before she moved to sit, “You can sit down if you wish.” She sat down on her own chair and removed her Chinese lute form its bag.

“While you might have done all that and I was ready to thank you, your pedantic attitude ruined the moment. By the way, don’t frown so much or you will get worry lines on your forehead and surely that would be quite a blow to your godly self-esteem.”

Kouhei snorted. The God of War wasn't supposed to be a happy person, did she not realize that? Did she not realize such things really didn't matter to him? What should he care if he got worry lines? Besides, he was fairly sure if he had not after nearly three hundred years that he wouldn't now. He wondered if one of the gods...or goddesses with a grudge against him had been the one to arrange things os that this brat was the one he was forced to look after.

“You might have lived hundred or thousands of years but your experience is quite limited, you probably lived as a hermit all that time and never interacted with anyone who was not ‘worthy’ f your company, according to you. So how is that experience useful? And I am not a child, I am way past that age.”

He crossed his arms. "I'll have you know I have roamed these lands for nearly three hundred years, and have forgotten more than you could see in your entire life. It was not until recently I took up a life of seclusion." He was not sure why he was explaining himself to her. "All mortals are but children to one like me." He nearly rolled his eyes but refrained. "However, if you are that bothered by it, I shall attempt to remember not to call you such again." Only because angering her unnecessarily would only make the next year even more difficult.

“I… I honestly do not know the motives for the Captain to insist on courting me. But I feel I cannot trust him, and something in him makes me fear what he might be capable of if I ever try and flee… you know? He could even make my father unwelcome in the whole kingdom and that would reduce his income and the amour of customers he has, we earns great profit from selling his goods in Kutou.”

Kouhei blinked at this little revelation. She was willing to share such a thing with him even though he'd been...how had she put it? A Snob. He surprised himself, however, when he spoke up again. "You should not fear that man. I could easily speak to the Emperor and ensure he continued to welcome your father regardless of what that foolish Captain had to say." If he remembered correctly, the current Emperor was one of his father's Seishi, and that gave him a bit of sway with the royal family, not that he'd ever seen need to use it. Come to think of it, he wasn't sure why he was offering to use it now to benefit this mortal girl and her father...although, if she was happy, it would in theory make protecting her easier, and it wasn't as if this was a great effort on his part anyway.

“Is she the one that… that got you in trouble and blamed you for something you did not do? Fine, I will let you protect me for one year… It might be a good idea to try and clear your name in the mean time, so that when you go back to your father you can prove to be the better man and complete the sentence and at the same time pose your innocence and… I can help if you need me to.”

Kouhei sighed. He hated even thinking of Hinote, as if doing so would summon her to torment him some more. "She is. Her name is Hinote, and she is a fire goddess under Suzaku. Just a few short years ago, perhaps fifty or so, she was mortal, but Suzaku made her a goddess. Since then she has perused me, despite my obvious lack of interest. A few years ago, she decided that she would either have me as her lover or see me destroyed, and she cared not which one. There was recently a raid on a Konan town just over the border from Kutou, and she convinced Suzaku that the God of War had obviously grown bored in this time of peace and been the one in charge of the raid." He wasn't sure why he was telling her this...pershaps because she'd offered to help, or perhaps because he had discussed this with no one, as he hadn't seen Rishiara lately. "I was in Sailo visiting...someone." He was hesitant to admit to having friends, for some reason. "And despite the fact that she confirmed my whereabouts, Suzaku did not believe us, and saw fit to punish me. So even if I found evidence, I am fairly sure he would not listen to it."

“Can you actually kill a god?”

He looked at her suspiciously for a long moment. Was she asking to try and betray him? After all, she'd shown little fondness for his company thus far. No, he sensed only curiosity from her. "You can." He admitted. He was quiet a moment longer before he explained. "If we suffer a serious enough injury...very prolonged, as we'll heal from most anything with time...or a curse can do it." He shrugged and looked away. "The simplest way is to have one of the Four Gods take away our mortality. Then we'll either die of old age, or can be killed as any human." He frowned at the thought. He did not like the idea of dying as a mortal. "If I fail to protect you for the next year, I will lose my immortality and all of my powers. Once that happens, I suspect Hinote plans to kill me." There was no real emotion in his voice. He was simply stating facts as he saw them.

“A god of War may look like a formidable warrior and might be a deadly foe. But that does not make you who you are, your attributes, profession, lifestyle does not make you “Kouhei” but what you are within, that is the real person waiting to come out. At least that is what my Shifu always used to say.”

He listened to her words, but did not really understand them. He was...who he was. And what he was. He didn't understand how he could be anything else. He was the god of War, and that was all he'd been since his father came to him and told him of his destiny. He decided to put her words away in his mind and mull over them some more later. For now he was growing a bit weary with all this talking.

“First of all, I did not know you would be walking about, so it is not my fault. Second of all, it sound more like you are taking the easy way out and not facing this punishment. If you are innocent you should not care if you have to do whatever it takes to clean your name and prove them wrong, gods or not they will abide to their rules and if you succeed then whoever blamed you will be disposed of the trust they granted that person. And do you honestly think you could have lived hundreds of years hiding here without eventually bumping into someone? I say you accept this sentence, get on with it and move one and stop acting like a child! And don’t you dare insult me, I would show gratitude if you showed a tiny bit or respect, if you were so concerned with the person you would have to protect, why did you not look for one of the Princesses of Kutou or even go in search of a lovely innocent maiden who will praise you and feed your ego every single day?”

Kouhei bristled. He never told scoldings well, not even from his father, and since his mother had died, no one but his father had ever dared to do so...least of all a mortal. He crossed his arms over his chest and stared her down, not backing down from this woman. "I did not intend to hide away for hundreds of years. I was simply hoping for a little time to make a plan of action." A general always formed a plan before going into battle, did he not? So why would this be any different? He then added as a grumble under his breath. "And trust me, if I'd known I'd end up with someone like you, I would've gone looking for someone more suitable."

He looked away for a moment. She was such a bratty little mortal...but she had offered to help clear his name...that was something, was it not? And even if she wasn't his ideal ward, there was little to be done about it now. "There is no point in arguing and discussing what may have been. Neither of us can change what the situation is now..." He gave a sigh and dropped his arms to his side as he looked back at her.

“You are a god, not a mortal so you should have more favour among them. In any case with the current situation even the gods have to work together so, if you found a way to prove your innocence even Suzaku could not stand a chance. But I do not know much, I honestly do not hold too much respect toward any divinity, even they ignored my prayers back then… But I stopped praying and moved on.”

He shrugged. Perhaps if he could find proof he was not involved with the raid, and took it to his father and Suzaku simultaneously, he could clear his name...though he had not seen much sense in doing so after the punishment was carried out. Then again, it would allow him to discredit Hinote, and he would very much like that. The woman had been a thorn in his side for too long already. Miyu's last words registered with him, and he looked over, curiously. "What...did you pray for back then?" If someone like Rishiara had heard, it probably would've been granted. He only ever heard prayers for victory in battle, and usually it was better for him not to take sides. He pushed the thought away. "Perhaps...you were not praying to the right deity..."

“I’ll have you know, many tried to capture her affections and failed all these years, I was beginning to fear she would never pledge her affections to anyone… I entrust her to you, she is rather annoying so she will need someone with a strong temperament to keep her at bay… I will be watching you. By the way, that Kutou Captain told me you saved her from a cliff, I dare say that gives you many points in your favour. Keep up the good work lad and if you like you can travel with us for some time to win her over.”

Kouhei was beginning to feel he would be forever confused if he spent a year with these humans. They were talking of her fall from the cliff...and then the old man began to speak of pledging affections and keeping her at bay. Well, that much he understood at least. "I believe I have seen the brunt of her annoyance, but it is nothing compared to battle, and I com confident I am more than a match for her." She could be as bratty as she liked, but he would not let that stop him from protecting her for the next year. She wasn't worth losing his immortality over. He was confused once more when the man mentioned her falling from the cliff, as if that had not been their initial topic. Perhaps he was senile...he'd have to ask Miyu later. If he was, that was something else to keep in mind while protecting her. When her father offered to let them travel with them, he nodded. "That was my plan." Though he didn't know what the man meant by 'winning her over'. Her father got distracted with customers, and Kouhei went to look for Miyu.

“Are you some sort of perverted god or something?”

He had not realized she'd be changing, and he'd gotten a look at her back before looking away quickly. He understood her insinuation, however, and scoffed. "As if a little mortal girl like you would ever catch my interest." Even if she did have an unusually pretty color of hair, and even if her skin did look soft and smooth, she was a mortal, and he was not apt to make the same foolish move his father had.

“I said I would let you protect me but… there are moments when I need privacy and this was one of them. What would you do if I saw you completely exposed? At least knock before entering or turn around whenever I need to get changed or something…”

He crossed his arms. "As soon as I realized your were changing, I did look away." It offended his pride that she would think he wished to leer at her like some tavern drunkard. He considered her question for a moment, and wasn't sure what he would do if she saw him exposed, so he chose to ignore it. "I will endeavor to remember to knock henceforth." It was not a desire for her constant companionship that made him hesitant to let her out of his sight. In truth, once Hinote learned that he was now protecting her, he would not put it past the goddess to try and attack Miyu when she was alone. He didn't feel like explaining this, however, as he was sure she'd think he was paranoid or something...

“I am a tailor, I can fix this and leave it like new just… don’t move ok?”

He tensed slightly when she touched his cloak, but he did not move. He had not even noticed the scratch, and yet, he had to admit once she was done it looked quite nice. He looked up from the mended cloak, and saw her smile at her work. It warmed him slightly to see her smile, though he wasn't sure why. A true smile was a nice expression for her. He looked away, feeling a little uncomfortable with her closeness an the strange feelings within. "...Thank you." The words were so soft she may not have heard them, but he was not about to repeat them. He wasn't even sure why he'd said the in the first place...

“You can sit down if you wish.”

He didn't really want to. He wanted to return to his home and continue with life as usual, instead of babysitting a mortal girl...but at least sitting next to her would put him in the perfect potion to fend off any possible threats. He took the offered seat and watched as she took out her lute and prepared to play. He'd never really had a fondness for music, preferring the sounds of nature which contrasted so nicely with the sounds of battle, but perhaps she was gifted with that instrument. If so, it would be one enjoyable thing about the next year. He closed his eyes for a moment as he waited for her to begin to play.

“I’ll have you know I have roamed these lands for nearly three hundred years, and have forgotten more than you could see in your entire life. It was not until recently I took up a life of seclusion.”

She smirked, she was not ready to give up this little battle just yet. She noticed he crosse chis arms to make a point and she decided she would not move hers away to concede. She poked at him for a moment saying, “What are centuries of experience if it is then forgotten? You can surpass my lifespan but that does not make you more knowledgeable or any wiser than me those traits are acquitted with hard work and dedication and I doubt hat someone so uninterested on those like me could know much about us.” She was not trying to make the god lose his mind arguing about all these trivialities, in many ways they were such, but she did wish to make a point especially when he was so determined to make one himself. She snorted at his words and then said, “Now isn’t that a contradiction? You claim to have earned thousands of years of experience and at the same time forgotten it all. That only confirms you did not spend that much time with mortals otherwise a few years of seclusion would not have made you that rusty.” She then looked away and said, “I have seen more than you could think in the few years I have lived and yet I wish at times I had not.” She sighed feeling the piercing pain in her heart knowing that even those that brought her to the world dismissed her as easily as yesterday’s news. She looked at her hands and she closed them in fists, she longed for a different life, at times she wished she could run away form it all but with no friends or connection she was completely helpless. She closed her eyes for a moment to hide away that pain and return to her usual self, what would this selfish god thing if he saw her in a moment of weakness? She had to stand him for a whole year so she might as well avoid giving him more reasons to insult her or make fun of her. She intertwined a finger with a lock of pink hair for a moment pulling lightly at the lock.

“All mortals are but children to one like me… However, if you are that bothered by it, I shall attempt to remember not to call you such again.”

She shrugged at his conception of children, one could not judge other species or kinds by one’s own capacities or ages. It was foolish to label others just like that. But what would she know, he probably did not care for such things and she would be wasting her time in clarifying why it was wrong to act like he did so instead she said, “I would appreciate that.” Sometimes the healthy thing to do was to let it go. And so, she decided to ignore her hurt pride and grant him the chance to redeem himself by tolerating his presence more willingly but if her chance was not taken and he mocked her that would be his last chance. She hoped he understood this. She eyed him, he seemed to dislike her as much as she could not bare his presence, would this truly work out? She was beginning to think that this year would be much more unbearable than she would have liked it to be. And even if she did her best not to bark at him, he ensured to keep pulling her strings and surely she could not be blamed for reacting to his persistence. At least he said he would refrain from calling her a child especially when it felt disturbing since he looked not much younger than she was.

"You should not fear that man. I could easily speak to the Emperor and ensure he continued to welcome your father regardless of what that foolish Captain had to say.”

Now was time for her to be amazed. Not only did he not mock her but he even offered to help her? She looked at him almost in disbelief but she soon cleared her throat and then said, “You would…do that? Are you safe to manifest before mortals?” She was not sure but she did not want anyone to harm him, maybe because she owed him her life in a way or maybe he sounded as lost and lonely as she was. Would his plan truly work though? She kew Kaien and he would not settle for just anything, he would do everything to get to her and though she still did not understand what he could want with someone like her, she decided she would not press the matter and make him think she doubted him. “What if… he was allied to other deities? Would that be too dangerous for you? As annoying as I find you, I would not like you to get hurt because of me, then you would never leave me be and would blame it on me morning and night.” Just as he had kept blaming her for his punishment even though she still could not understand how she had to be blamed for it. They seemed to have started on the wrong foot but she would not let him think he could go about treating her like an inferior minion or something. She decided to contain her bratty nature somewhat though and said, “Thank you for offering your help, I guess.”

"She is. Her name is Hinote, and she is a fire goddess under Suzaku. Just a few short years ago, perhaps fifty or so, she was mortal, but Suzaku made her a goddess. Since then she has perused me, despite my obvious lack of interest. A few years ago, she decided that she would either have me as her lover or see me destroyed, and she cared not which one. There was recently a raid on a Konan town just over the border from Kutou, and she convinced Suzaku that the God of War had obviously grown bored in this time of peace and been the one in charge of the raid… I was in Sailo visiting…someone… And despite the fact that she confirmed my whereabouts, Suzaku did not believe us, and saw fit to punish me. So even if I found evidence, I am fairly sure he would not listen to it.”

She heard him for a moment and could not avoid recognising his emotions as her own, this god despised Hinote as much as she loathed Kaien. She came to realise there was perhaps more to him than meet the eye and he was irked at her due to this frustrating station but that did not justify the way he treated her and so she heard him carefully without interrupting. It seemed she made his life impossible. She could not avoid feeling angry at his words. The rage was not directed at him though but rather at this person and her hands closed in fists, and here she was thinking that he had no idea what it was like to be harassed morning and night. This made her think, though, that probably both enemies were as deadly as they could be and both Miyu and Kouhei would have to be extremely careful. And so, she looked up at him for a moment and then said, “I understand, and your enemy sounds like a coward, using any opportunity to make others do her job for her. I understand your feelings and I sympathise. I will do my best to make this year a more bearable one if that will help you. And yet, now that I know what happened, I believe you, and I want to help you clear your name if at all possible, even if I must speak with Suzaku himself.” He offered to help her with Kaien, the least she could do was help back. She could never live on with such a debt on her shoulders.

"You can… If we suffer a serious enough injury...very prolonged, as we'll heal from most anything with time...or a curse can do it." He shrugged and looked away. "The simplest way is to have one of the Four Gods take away our mortality. Then we'll either die of old age, or can be killed as any human… If I fail to protect you for the next year, I will lose my immortality and all of my powers. Once that happens, I suspect Hinote plans to kill me.”

She almost regretted asking that question when he looked at her suspiciously but she relaxed when he finally began to reply and did not take her words to heart. She listened to him with great curiosity and the more she learned about him the more she understood and that felt so scary. She wondered if the same applied to him for he seemed less rough and more tolerant with his replies. She still did not plan to lower her guard though. She then heard the bit that concerned her and realised that was why he had been hiding and got upset at her but that did not mean she agreed with either of them. She sighed and ran a hand through her long pink hair before turning to look at him, “I see things more clearly now and I confess I do not like those who wish to force their own wills on others. I am sorry you have gone through the same as I have and I think that, despite what it might have seemed at the beginning, we might be able to help one another.” She smirked and eyed him, “unless you still think a mortal is not worth your time, that is.” she could not avoid the tease, it as her turn. However, something unexplainable happened and placing a hand on the handle of her whip she said, “Whatever happens, you covered my back so now I cover yours, I do not fear whoever enemy we must face, I will not let them harm you.” And by that she also meant she would ensure not to let anything harm her or bring her to her death, she hoped he understood it.

"I did not intend to hide away for hundreds of years. I was simply hoping for a little time to make a plan of action.”

“Time waits for no one, and while you did this your enemy probably already moved many pawns to her advantage, you can never wait too long to counterattack the advances of a battlefield. Sometimes you need to act now, to make a rushed decision and I think the gds would only suspect of you delaying your duty.” Wasn’t that what at times lost wars and caused great destruction and loss?

”And trust me, if I'd known I'd end up with someone like you, I would've gone looking for someone more suitable.”

She growled silently in exasperation and turned her back on him, “I just offered to help you and this is all you have to say? You would have sought someone more suitable? Want me to go and speak with Suzaku so he lets you chose? It would be fine by me, I would not have to stand the company of the likes of you.”

“There is no point in arguing and discussing what may have been. Neither of us can change what the situation is now…”

She sighed to his words and shook her head. But she said nothing in reply, she disliked those who resigned instead of making the best of things. They probably were not their choice of persons, but at least they had offered to help one another so that had to mean something… Maybe this happened for a reason and they did not know it yet, surely not everything was against them. Plus, Miyu did not consider herself as terrible as Kouhei portrayed her, surely he already thought her bratty but then again he was too arrogant and snobby to dare insult her… “Even if it is difficult to admit at this very moment, I know there is always a reason for things to happen.”

"What...did you pray for back then? Perhaps...you were not praying to the right deity…”

His question caught her off guard. It was a rather personal thing to ask and back then, no, even now still she suffered greatly, she blushed lightly and said, “If I could not be given an actual family or a friend… then I only wanted to be free, to be happy… you find life is quite meaningless when you are but a prisoner who cannot escape such fate, whatever you do, and I have tried everything…” Did it matter anymore? Not really… She knew the gods did not grant you anything and why was he curious? Surely he would use that to mock her now. He seemed keen t just point out things against her and since he made it obvious that he did not like her, well, that only made things worse. “When you despair you pray to any and every god available… It doesn’t matter anymore…” she was probably lying… it may as eel still matter but… she accepted her fate long ago and fought her own battles to one day break free and be happy for once… lonely yes, but at least she would not have to stand this constant demeaning her rathe forced upon her ad the harassing of Captain Kaien… among many other things. In any case how would he know if she prayed tot he right god or not, surely a general prayer was heard by all…

"I believe I have seen the brunt of her annoyance, but it is nothing compared to battle, and I com confident I am more than a match for her… That was my plan.”

Kuno was rather shocked at his words and he raised an eyebrow, he had only just met Miyu and he was so certain of himself? And he truly believes he was her match? He chuckled for a moment and then said, “Don’t you think it is a little too soon to be so certain of something as serious as an engagement? Wouldn’t you rather make sure?” He did want his daughter to marry but he had never met someone so determined to earn her affections and so sure that he would do so as well. He was speechless. Maybe she had charmed him even when she did not realise. He ran a hand through his short pink hair and then shrugged. Maybe some people fell in love that fast, though he had never heard of it begin so soon. “And you think you have what it takes to see past her defects and se the truly wonderful person she can be?” True, he was not so fond of the child and wished to be rid of her but he knew her qualities and he was so used to selling things that he did not mind speaking in such a way to charm this young man and ensure he took her hand in marriage. His mind was already playing up some plans so that Kouhei and Miyu ended up wedded. He would ensure they worked together and he could find any reason to leave them on their own, hopefully sparks would burn then and they would announce their engagement to him eventually. he grinned and rubbed his chin, he was a genius… “I am glad you wish to come with us, an extra helping hand is always good to have.”

"As if a little mortal girl like you would ever catch my interest.”

She threw him a small pillow and then said, “Of course not, you are so in love with yourself you would never see anyone as pretty…. In any case you must be the only person to ever say such, I have suitors I could count with the fingers of my hands and beyond.” She turned to look away from him as she finished getting ready and moved to exit without another word. She could not stand someone stumping on her pride and she would ensure he knew that even if he was a god of War she would show no fear nor would she feel intimidated by his threats. She always spoke her mind and though people did not like it well, that was who she was. She would not change for anyone.

"As soon as I realized your were changing, I did look away… I will endeavor to remember to knock henceforth.”

She looked into his eyes and could tell he was not lying. To his last words she nodded and said, “I understand you must protect me at all times but I will also appreciate your respect as much as I will do my best to respect you in return.” It would be difficult though, she was fully aware of the fact that they would argue as they had but second ago but she would try if he did so as well. She also did not fancy to have a hard time with her bodyguard when they tried to work together or a whole year, it would only make things difficult for the both of them. She saw worry in his eyes and pondered it might be because he was thinking of Hinote, did he fear she might hurt her? She was no fool and together they would be a good team, she hoped. She placed a hand on his cheek for their eyes to meet before she removed her hand knowing he was not comfortable with these things and said, “Do not worry, we will be side by side and will face everything that comes out way.”

"...Thank you.”

She was a bit surprised by his words but she smiled at him nonetheless and nodded. She knew how proud he was and his convictions regarding mortals so she did not wish to hurt his pride. She watched him look away and wondered if this was another of his problems with showing emotions. She decided against asking, she did not want him to snap defensively at her, she could already see his body tense from her closeness and so she decided to settle down and play her Chinese lute before her father barked at her. She watched him sit beside her and she closed her eyes for a moment, she was so relieved he did not make a tantrum over that and she finally placed her hands on her instrument and began to play a delightful and peaceful melody that reminded her of water, of the moving rivers and streams and the ocean itself, of the small water droplets that fell with the rain and the freshness of siting next to a fountain and the song she played mimicked those sounds and the pleasure you could fell when just listening to the flow of the water on a fall. Kuno smiled since her music always attracted customers. However, at times, it also attracted vermin. A man smiled and seeing Kuno busy with two customers he approached Miyu and then said, “Hey lovely… how about we go for a walk and you rest from playing…” Miyu kept her eyes closed and kept playing ignoring him, but her body tensed when he moved closer and his hand reached out to take her. She played on and one hand slowly slipped to the handle of her whip, “Sir, please only discuss things regarding the merchandise we sell here…” The man chuckled, “I thought you were for sale my dear…” He grinned wickedly and she felt her closed eye twitch in anger, she was no slave!

“What are centuries of experience if it is then forgotten? You can surpass my lifespan but that does not make you more knowledgeable or any wiser than me those traits are acquitted with hard work and dedication and I doubt hat someone so uninterested on those like me could know much about us.”

Kouhei's eyebrow twitched just once. He was not sure if he was more offended that she had dared to poke him, or that she implied that hard work and determination were things he was not accustomed to. Did she still not understand who he was? This girl could not fathom the hardships he'd faced over the centuries. Being a God, even the son of Seriyuu, did not always mean a life of comfort and plenty. He had seen trials when he was raised by his human mother who had barely made enough money to take care of them. And as the God of war, he fought alongside mortals often, even risking himself to save them. He snorted. She was probably too simple to understand if he had voiced these thoughts, so instead he continued to listen to her.

“Now isn’t that a contradiction? You claim to have earned thousands of years of experience and at the same time forgotten it all. That only confirms you did not spend that much time with mortals otherwise a few years of seclusion would not have made you that rusty. I have seen more than you could think in the few years I have lived and yet I wish at times I had not.”

He was about to snap once more, telling her that she misunderstood his meaning. He had seem so much in his life that the trivial little things that one tends not to remember over time...those added up to more than her entire lifetime and more. He had forgotten nothing of the hard earned experiences and the knowledge he had gained. Yes, he'd been about to tell her this when her last words surprised him. There was something dark weighing on her mind, and-for just a moment=he wondered what it was. This surprise led him to admit something he would not have otherwise. He looked down for a moment, focusing on the hilt of his Dragon Blade. "We all have things we've seen that we wish to forget. I believe those things help to shape us and make us stronger."

Why had he admitted that? Would she think him even more out-of-touch with mortals...or possibly even weak for saying such a thing? He would not tolerate a mortal thinking him weak. He looked back, and his expression, which had softened for just a moment, was back to the one he wore before.

“You would…do that? Are you safe to manifest before mortals?”

Kouhei gave a curt nod. "I do not care for those who would use blackmail to gain something when more honest means are at their disposal, so yes, I would speak to Shun on your behalf if you so wish. He is one of my father's Seishi, and has called upon me in times of crisis to assist in protecting Kutou." At her last words, he shrugged one shoulder. "I was avoiding mortals so I would not have to partake in that ridiculous punishment, but now that that's no longer a problem, there is nothing stopping me from moving about the same as you."

“What if… he was allied to other deities? Would that be too dangerous for you? As annoying as I find you, I would not like you to get hurt because of me, then you would never leave me be and would blame it on me morning and night. Thank you for offering your help, I guess.”

Kouhei's eyes flashed with annoyance. She found him annoying? Did she not realize how frustrating she was? As if there were many other deities that were powerful enough to harm him. He stood a bit straigter and looked down at her for a moment. He resisted his first urge, which was to tell her exactly what was on her mind. Offering to speak to the Emperor had been a peace offering, and he did not wish to destroy it so early into what he was sure would be a hellishly long year. "It would matter not who he allies himself with. I have allies of my own, after all, and I am confident that none this Captain of yours could conspire with would be able to do more than be an annoyance at best." Much like Miyu herself, he thought, but didn't say.

“I understand, and your enemy sounds like a coward, using any opportunity to make others do her job for her. I understand your feelings and I sympathise. I will do my best to make this year a more bearable one if that will help you. And yet, now that I know what happened, I believe you, and I want to help you clear your name if at all possible, even if I must speak with Suzaku himself.”

As he told his tale, he watched her show clear signs of anger. Was she going to yell at him again? This year would be so tiresome if she yelled at him at the drop of a hat. Her words struck him, however-though it irked him that she said she felt sympathy, that wasn't an emotion he wanted, lest of all from a mortal-and he realized that she was returning his offer of aid. "I do not know what you could possibly do or say to help." He realized those words sounded harsher than he intended, and he added. "But...I thank you." Oh, Seriyuu, he was not good with considering human emotions. He was much mroe at home on the battlefield where the only feeling that mattered was the urge to survive.

“I see things more clearly now and I confess I do not like those who wish to force their own wills on others. I am sorry you have gone through the same as I have and I think that, despite what it might have seemed at the beginning, we might be able to help one another. unless you still think a mortal is not worth your time, that is. Whatever happens, you covered my back so now I cover yours, I do not fear whoever enemy we must face, I will not let them harm you.”

Kouhei nodded once to her first words. Perhaps it would be possible they could assist one another. Rishiara was his friend, so he could see where she might have lied to Suzaku for his sake-though she had not-but Miyu was just a mortal, and would have no motive to lie for him. At her tease, he smirked slightly, and found himself returning the tease, his tone just a fraction lighter than before. "You're not worth my time, of cousre, but seeing as I'm stuck with you..." Was he doing this 'teasing' thing correctly? He wasn't sure. At her last words, he nodded once more. He loathed the thought of her having to 'protect him' but could undertand a tactical alliance. They would be stronger, and better able to protect one another, if they worked together.

“If I could not be given an actual family or a friend… then I only wanted to be free, to be happy… you find life is quite meaningless when you are but a prisoner who cannot escape such fate, whatever you do, and I have tried everything… When you despair you pray to any and every god available… It doesn’t matter anymore…”

Listening to her words stirred something in him. She had experienced great sadness and loneliness over the years. Though this was far from his area of expertise, he felt compelled to say something, however small, to put her mind at ease once more. His reptilian eyes softened as he looked down at her. "Sometimes...prayers like that are not easy to grant...even for the most powerful among us. That means that sometimes thay can take a very long time." He felt uneasy, so he looked to one side as he finished. "But that does not mean you have been ignored or should give up hope. I have learned that all things work themselves out in their own time."

“Don’t you think it is a little too soon to be so certain of something as serious as an engagement? Wouldn’t you rather make sure? I am glad you wish to come with us, an extra helping hand is always good to have.”

Kouhei was puzzled by Kuno's words. Engagement? As in a battle? Well, yes, they had fought thus far, so perhaps that was what the man was referring to. He simply nodded to the man's last words. He detested the thought of working in such a place, but it would be the easiest way to keep an eye on Miyu and ensure that they both survived the year.

“Of course not, you are so in love with yourself you would never see anyone as pretty…. In any case you must be the only person to ever say such, I have suitors I could count with the fingers of my hands and beyond.”[//i]

He wanted to snap back at her words, to say that he'd seen many lovely maidens. Indeed, his only friend Rishiara was quite lovely, though he did not feel for her in that regard. He also wished to point out that, for all her suitors, she was as of yet unwed, and that was probably because none could tolerate her personality. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, closing his eyes. He had decided to try and get along with her just a little better, so he would not say what was on his mind...not now, at least.

“I understand you must protect me at all times but I will also appreciate your respect as much as I will do my best to respect you in return. Do not worry, we will be side by side and will face everything that comes out way.”

Kouhei nodded but said nothing. He Had accepted that they would have to work together to make it though this year, and that meant he would have to compromise and do things he had never wished to do before. He would have to learn the boundaries for humans. What could he do, and what could he not do? What was 'proper' when protecting a lady?

These questions left his mind when she began to play, and he closed his eyes for a long moment enjoying the music. It was beautiful, and brought forth a wave of thoughts and feelings. Many assumed that, as a War God, he did not care for delicate, beautiful things...and for the most part, they would be right, but once in a while he enjoyed something like the music Miyu now played. He opened his eyes to watch her, but didn't speak as he did not wish to shatter the spell she was casting.

“Hey lovely… how about we go for a walk and you rest from playing…”
“Sir, please only discuss things regarding the merchandise we sell here…”
“I thought you were for sale my dear…”

Kouhei had ignored this man as insignificant at first, not a real threat to Miyu's safety, However, when the man reached out and touched Miyu, he felt a flash of anger. He was on his feet in an instant, and grabbed the man's hand holding it hard enough that a small popping sound could be heard. "The lady is not interested in your offer. She is a person, not an object to be bought. If you are not going to buy something that IS for sale, then move along." His eyes met the man, and he glared at him with all of the anger the God of War could produce. He released the man's hand, but continued to stand, ready to show this man he was not to be taken lightly. He was not sure what had inspired such anger in him, but he couldn't help it. No one had the right to touch Miyu, or any other person, without their permission. And to imply that she could be bought like a trinket? This side of humanity truly sickened him...

"We all have things we've seen that we wish to forget. I believe those things help to shape us and make us stronger.”

Miyu could tell how angry he was becoming all of a sudden and was expecting a sharp remark or any mean and nasty words that he could say to offend her even more. However, as long as she waited that never happened. In fact his reaction to her last words was a bit shocking and for the first time since their first meeting she was not sure how to react. She looked up at him and he seemed lost in thought, she noticed his eyes moved to the hilt of his sword and she could see a hind of sorrow or regret. She wondered then what he could have gone through that could make him so sad. Maybe she had aid too much nonsense without realising it but he had pushed her buttons and she was a bit self-defensive when it came to men. She looked down for a moment and decided that she would apologise once she calmed down, in fact when she was ready to speak when she heard him talk. His words had wisdom and truth in them but they were hard to accept sometimes. She looked down and took in the meaning of such words, maybe his life had not been as easy as she had first thought and maybe he was the God of War but that did not mean he loved immersing himself in a battlefield. Surely blood and loss could not please anyone… She wondered though if she was indeed stronger now than she had been before. She gave his words some consideration and decided that he might be right. Did he try to comfort her? She blushed lightly unsure as to how to respond to his words but she looked back at him and said softly, “Thank you, you are right.” Surely he could not be so shocked that she would admit he was right and be polite for once, she was no ogre given the right company.

”I do not care for those who would use blackmail to gain something when more honest means are at their disposal, so yes, I would speak to Shun on your behalf if you so wish. He is one of my father's Seishi, and has called upon me in times of crisis to assist in protecting Kutou… I was avoiding mortals so I would not have to partake in that ridiculous punishment, but now that that's no longer a problem, there is nothing stopping me from moving about the same as you.”

She heard his words and was truly impressed, she looked at him with a smile on her face. This would probably dissuade her father from constantly bickering about getting her a husband. She was tired of dealing with suitors like Captain Keian who only saw in her a trophy or a decoration to leave at home while they could inherit her father’s influential business, he was well known in the Four Kingdoms. She also felt a bit of sadness that Kouhei had been unjustly judged by the gods and punished for no reason and she decided she would control herself more around him and be nice to him, she could not contain her happiness however and before she knew it she was throwing her arms around his neck and whispering, “Thank you, Kouhei… thank you very much!” She was not sure why though but she had a feeling of security in his arms and she could not avoid noticing how strong he actually was. She blushed lightly and then realised that she had probably touched him and he would not like that. But how could she ask for forgiveness now? She slowly moved away from him and took a couple of steps back, “Please forgive me… I know I am a mere mortal and do not deserve to even look at you but… You had made me so happy…” She did not dare to look him in the eyes afraid that all their efforts would have gone to waste with this little grateful action of hers. She lowered her head apologetically bitting at her own pride for doing so. She hoped he knew how difficult it was for her to do this.

”It would matter not who he allies himself with. I have allies of my own, after all, and I am confident that none this Captain of yours could conspire with would be able to do more than be an annoyance at best.”

Miyu was a bit taken aback by his overconfidence. It was true that he was a mighty God but everyone had weaknesses, he underestimated the Captain and his allies and for that she suspected that Kouhei would suffer greatly. But noticing the annoyance in his eyes she desisted against truly voicing her opinions as she had been doing ever since they met and simply nodded. Even if she spoke her thoughts they would be colliding again and she was sure that he would not listen to her anyway so why bother? Her eyes looked into his reptilian ones and she wondered what made him so narrow-minded. What had he been through that made him so sure of the things he defended with such passion and the ones he despised? Somehow deep inside considering that he might always hate her and find her annoying… it made her chest hurt and she slowly placed a hand on her chest and took a deep breath as if trying to ignore her own thoughts but she could not. She felt sorrow but this time she shook her head, it was not worth it to worry, it's not like they would see much of each other, once the job was done he would go back to the land of the gods and she would stay with her father and go back to her old routine.

“I do not know what you could possibly do or say to help… But…I thank you.”

She bit her lower lip at his reproach in an attempt to stop herself from voicing her thoughts on rude people who did not accept help when it was presented to them. She knew that he was a God and a powerful one at that but she also believed that every person had an important part to play in life and even she could do something for him, as small and insignificant as she was, she still wanted to help him. Was that not enough to be grateful for? She doubted a God with such opinion on humans could be well loved here. She nodded to his words but her eyes did not meet his. She was slowly releasing the anger she had felt when he basically stated she was useless. It was taking every ounce of energy and tolerance and patience Miyu had inside to stop herself form snapping at Kouhei and leaving him in the forest to help another less “whiny” mortal as he pointed out a few moments before. She sighed and closed her eyes feeling the cool breeze play with her long locks of pink hair.

"You're not worth my time, of cousre, but seeing as I'm stuck with you…”

It was strange how they both manage to go form moments of strong and fierce tension to playful situations such as this one. She rolled her eyes playfully at his words and punched softly at his shoulder, “Since I am not worth your time then… There is no point in you trying my apple tart with sour cream once we get to the caravan right? I made them last night.” She winked at him. She did not even realise that all her anger had evaporated and instead she found herself teasing a God and laughing at his playfulness. Would Kouhei feel offended? Would he lose his patience and walk away? Did he even enjoy at all joking around with a mere mortal? In all honesty they suddenly seemed to be getting on well, and part of her wished that they would continue to get on so well.

"Sometimes...prayers like that are not easy to grant...even for the most powerful among us. That means that sometimes thay can take a very long time… But that does not mean you have been ignored or should give up hope. I have learned that all things work themselves out in their own time.”

“Kouhei…” Miyu looked at Kouhei, she was a bit shocked at how sensitive he could be if he really wanted to be. She considered his words and noticed that he had looked away bashfully and she found herself smiling softly. That had been so cute of him, but she would never tell him, least it should anger the proud God of War. She looked into his eyes and once considering his words she nodded and noticed a hint of sadness in his eyes. She was now more determined than ever to make this experience as easy for him as possible and avoid arraign for as long as she could. She smiled up at Kouhei to show she truly appreciated his words and then said, “You are right, thank you.” She then added, “Maybe our paths crossed because a deity heard my prayers after all.” She realised what she had said too late and she blushed and looked away now being the one feeling uncomfortable but she would treasure those words. She really would…

Kuno examined Kouhei closely and was shocked at how sure he seemed to believe he would be a good match for his daughter. He thought for a moment, “Well, you do seem to come from a god family and your weapon seems legendary and inherited, not one you would simply buy in a smithy. You look as strong and skilled as a samurai and you have a gift with words.” He rubbed his chin and added, “You are also quite stubborn… you might indeed be a good match for my daughter but… I have not been as good a father as I would like, lad. So if you truly want to be her match, you have to convince her.” He turned to look at his daughter with a soft smile, “She is hot-headed, but trust me, once she opens up to you she is the sweetest girl and she is completely loyal to a fault.” He rubbed the back of his neck and added, “You are a very good catch though and so I would not want to say no straight away, I will consider what you said…” He then removed a medallion from his neck and placed it around Kouhei’s neck saying, “May this be a period of trial, if I am satisfied that Miyu is happy and that you earn her, I will consent to the match, until then I give you the family heirloom passed on from generation to generation. Let it be an agreement between us two.” He smiled and then patted Kouhei’s shoulder before saying, “Well then boy, go and make her happy. I will be watching.” He winked at Kouhei and went back to his caravan.

Miyu looked into his eyes and she sighed, she could tell what he was thinking but she was not about to let him judge her by mere appearance alone. She disliked having suitors that only were after her family’s name, wealth and position and so she was not someone who easily got along with men. She held prejudices against them and at times would prefer not having any…

Miyu could sense around her as she played her instrument and she was rather surprised Kouhei relaxed greatly as he listened to her music. She smiled softly and decided she would do her best to play for him whenever possible if it pleased him. She wanted to show him that mortals were not as filthy or annoying as he thought. She wanted to show him that they could be wonderful persons too and that by being mortal they valued life and its beauty much more. She was so concentrated on her music that she felt she could not be bothered to deal with the men who came to molest her.

"The lady is not interested in your offer. She is a person, not an object to be bought. If you are not going to buy something that IS for sale, then move along.”

Miyu was truly surprised though when Kouhei jumped to her rescue and the anger that shone in his eyes was alarming. Miyu wondered why he was suddenly furious. Was he upset at the men or did it… have anything to do with it dealing with the fact that she was the one affected? She shook her head, Kouhei had pointed out clearly that he hated humans and so he would never feel anything else aside form disguise toward her race. She wondered if this was his way to show that he would actually protect her? The man groaned in pain and once Kouhei released him he twirled his hand and then gave Miyu a sharp glare but then said mockingly to Kouhei, “PLease forgive my impertinence Sir… I was not trying to harm your girlfriend in any way. But I have to admit you are lucky… she is quite the pretty one…” Miyu was speechless. What was this man saying?

She looked away and began to clean her instrument while the men glanced at her again and then left. She blushed lightly and then sighed, they thought they were a couple? As if something like that could ever happen! Especially with a man like this self-centred god… She began to put her instrument away. She noticed her dad was already talking with some ladies so that meant it was time to close the shop down. As she was doing her best to busy herself, her father came over and handed her a parchment, “Miyu dear, it seems tomorrow there will be a fair, since you behaved today you have my permission to attend tomorrow, however you must take Kouhei with you, the streets get crowded so it is not a good idea for a young lady to go there on her own.” She was a bit shocked at her father’s words, why was he suddenly giving her time off with Kouhei? She sighed and then turned to look at the God, “Would you mind… taking me?”

“Thank you, you are right.”

Kouhei was mildly surprised that she admitted he was right. She'd showm very little kindness to him thus far, and had seemed quite stubborn, so her words were the last thing she'd expected. But...to be fair, he'd been quite unkind and stubborn himself. And...if he was being honest with himself, he'd been quite arrogant too. Rishiara would've smacked him upside the back of the head had she seen how he'd been behaving himself. Still, he was so rarely thanked for his help or advice-Shun being the only one who ever did-that he wasn't sure how to take it. After a small pause, he gave a slight nod, hoping she would realize he was accepting her thanks, and not trying to be arrogant.

“Thank you, Kouhei… thank you very much! Please forgive me… I know I am a mere mortal and do not deserve to even look at you but… You had made me so happy…”

The God of War was surprised she was thanking him again, but was even more surprised when she threw her arms around his neck and embraced him. He stiffened for a moment, unsure what to do. He had not been hugged since he was a child, and even then not much as his mother knew he was not fond of such things-thought himself above them. Still, for some reason it felt...nice...to have someone so near. He hesitantly reached up and patted softly at her back, not sure how to respond. He found himself thinking that her hair was rather soft...

That thought was pushed away quickly, however, when she moved away and apologized for her reaction. Was she mocking him? Or did she think he would react with anger for her showing her gratitude? He found-much to his own surprise-that it did not bother him quite as much as she seemed to think. He felt his cheeks warm faintly, and he looked away, hoping she would not notice. "It is of no concern..."

He noticed his words seemed to bother her, and wondered if he had misspoken again. He was not used to long conversations, especially with mortals.He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, deciding to swallow some of his pride-a difficult task for a stubborn God-and attempt to keep the peace with Miyu. It would make this next year much easier. "Forgive me." His words were barely above a whisper. "What I mean to say is, I am not sure that anyone can help, and it may end up that my best course of action is to just carry out this punishment and move on." He met her eyes as he continued. "But thank you for your offer, and I accept your assistance. If you can help me to clear my name, I will be eternally grateful." Was that better? He was not used to censoring himself like this, and honestly had no idea what was 'polite' in these situations. He was usually only sought out in times of war by all except Rishiara, and there were different standards in those times.

“Since I am not worth your time then… There is no point in you trying my apple tart with sour cream once we get to the caravan right? I made them last night.”

Kouhei smirked, crossing his arms. "They're probably not good anyway." He replied, closing his eyes for a moment. After a pause, he opened one eye to look at her once more. "Though if it's your cooking or starvation, I suppose I could stomach some..." In truth, he was curious about these apple tarts. They were sweets, correct? He closed both eyes again. His mother used to make such things for him when he was a child, and though he was a rather ungrateful brat back then, he had always been fond of them. "They can't be as good as my mother's..." He hadn't meant to say that...to mention his mother. Would she notice? Keeping his posture relaxed, he opened both eyes and moved his hands to his pockets. "Has anyone ever told you that you hit like a girl?" Perhaps that would distract her from his slip. He didn't want to talk abouth is mother at the moment...

“You are right, thank you. Maybe our paths crossed because a deity heard my prayers after all.”

Kouhei looked at her for a moment, unsure how to respond. She was being kind to him, and opening up some, and he didn't want to say something to cause her to shut down once more, but he was also quite uncomfortable with all of these emotions, and all of her gratitude. He decided that something a bit generic may be his best chance at not saying the wrong thing. He looked away from her and watched some people near the shop. "I have heard...all things happen for a reason...we are just not always aware of it at the time." Maybe there was some reason she was the mortal he had to protect...though he was hesitant to say it was because he was meant to be her friend. He pushed the thought away...there would be time to think more on it later.

“Well, you do seem to come from a good family and your weapon seems legendary and inherited, not one you would simply buy in a smithy. You look as strong and skilled as a samurai and you have a gift with words. You are also quite stubborn… you might indeed be a good match for my daughter but… I have not been as good a father as I would like, lad. So if you truly want to be her match, you have to convince her. She is hot-headed, but trust me, once she opens up to you she is the sweetest girl and she is completely loyal to a fault. You are a very good catch though and so I would not want to say no straight away, I will consider what you said… May this be a period of trial, if I am satisfied that Miyu is happy and that you earn her, I will consent to the match, until then I give you the family heirloom passed on from generation to generation. Let it be an agreement between us two. Well then boy, go and make her happy. I will be watching.”

Kouhei listened to all Kuno had to say, and hated to admit he was not quite following all of hte man's train of thought. He kept mentioning making Miyu happy. That was not why Kouhei was here...he was simply tasked with protecting her, nothing else held importance. Still, he was not sure how convey this point, so instead he latched onto the one thing the man said that did make sense to him. "Miyu is already convinced of this situation. She and I discussed the arrangement before I came to speak to you." Was her father a bit off? He seemed to have trouble following what seemed like a simple chain of events. He looked down at the medallion when Kuno placed it around his neck. Perhaps this was some custom the mortals here partook in. He didn't have the patience to question it, and decided he'd ask Miyu later...if he remembered.

“PLease forgive my impertinence Sir… I was not trying to harm your girlfriend in any way. But I have to admit you are lucky… she is quite the pretty one…”

Girlfriend? kouhei nearly scoffed. As if he'd be romantically interested in her. Still, if it made the man leave, he would say nothing on the fact for now. Instead, he crossed his arms and glared coldly at the man, watching him as he left, and making sure he would not come back to bother them. He was just settling into his seat once mroe when Kuno approached. He nearly rolled his eyes, but managed not to. What did that strange little man want now?

“Miyu dear, it seems tomorrow there will be a fair, since you behaved today you have my permission to attend tomorrow, however you must take Kouhei with you, the streets get crowded so it is not a good idea for a young lady to go there on her own.”

“Would you mind… taking me?”

A fair, hmmm? He had not been to a fair in at least a century...and had not been fond of the experience before then. He looked from Miyu to her father and then back again. She seemed excited about it, and he was bound to go where she did-the better to protect her-but he couldn't help the feeling that Kuno had some ulterior motive. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, rubbing the back of his neck. "If it is your wish, I will accompany you." Whatever Kuno may be planning, he'd have to keep an eye out for it. Besides, if he didn't take Miyu, she might try to slip off and go on her own, and that was the last thing he needed. Feeling that matter was settled, he looked around before looking to the pink haired girl once mroe. "It is time to close up, correct? What do you need me to do to help?" He hated being idle, so he figured he may as well help her close up shop. The sooner they did, the sooner he might get to try one of those apple tarts...

In all honesty Miyu was expecting Kouhei to simply take her words lightly and rather dismiss them with his usual arrogant air and state that she was not worthy to address him, least of all thank him. Was he thinking she was trying to bait him or something? She would never make use of such tactics to earn a person’s affections, in fact, she would never try to force feelings into the hearts of others. That was one of the reasons she did not like having suitors. These men were not after her happiness and their own but rather after the titles and power her father earned throughout the years and after her, a prize to be won. The men often mumbled how beautiful she was but in reality she could see their true intentions, perhaps they made her believe she was beautiful but they wanted her hand in marriage for that sole reason, because she was beautiful and her father had power and was well known wherever he went. My greatly disliked those who schemed plans of all sorts to earn power and a bride. There was nothing less serious and dishonest than being with someone not because of love but because of the benefits that would come with being with someone like her. She even detested the way they looked at her, with such hunger as if they were the predators and she were their prey. They even placed bets on who she would choose. She found herself sighing and closing her eyes without eve realising.

She had been told countless times how lucky she was because she had so many suitors and because this had been going on since she was thirteen springs. Many ladies envied and despised her and several men were after her hand in marriage. But she did not want any of this and it made her rather bratty and annoying toward people, men in particular. Though, if she explained this to Kouhei he would probably roll his eyes and think her pathetic. She ran a hand through her long pink hair and watched it as it settled back into place. It seemed he nodded at her so he accepted her thanks. She decided not to push her luck and allowed their conversation to end while she wondered how Kouhei would have dealt with her problems if he had been a girl. But then she imagined him slicing all suitors to pieces and without the wish to often anyone, she found herself laughing softly and she covered her mouth with one hand. Hopefully the God of War would not be angry at her sudden outburst of laughter but she truly ha not expected her trail of thought to suddenly land where it had. And yet, she wondered… Her eyes looked back into his own.

"It is of no concern…”

She really had not planned to react the way she did and embrace him all of a sudden. She did not know what came over her, she was never this impulsive. And yet, it had felt so natural to show her gratitude in such a way. But she remembered how angry Kouhei had been to have to protect her for a whole year and how much he seemed to despise mortals and that was the reason she feared he might yell at her again and then she would be unable to stop herself from yelling back. It was a vicious circle. But then she noticed his blush and the way he replied and she was lost for words. She looked down for a moment, maybe it was true what her father said, she had grown so used to not getting along with anyone that when she tried it was rather awkward. she had not expected him not to be so annoyed at the fact that she had embraced him. Had she misjudged him then? It did seem to her he as making an effort to be nicer but she realised now that she did not want him to be anyone else but himself. When people are genuine it was easier to get on with them.

"Forgive me… What I mean to say is, I am not sure that anyone can help, and it may end up that my best course of action is to just carry out this punishment and move on… But thank you for your offer, and I accept your assistance. If you can help me to clear my name, I will be eternally grateful.”

She took his words into consideration and almost blushed at how openly she had offered to help him when she had no idea what it was like to speak to a god or what rules one had to follow. She might make things worse for him if she tried to intervene and she found herself playing with a lock of her long pink hair while she considered this. How foolish she had been! How could a girl of her age help anyone? She could not even help herself. She looked up at him, her scarlet eyes examining him as she thought of something. It was true that when they met he had seemed the most annoying and arrogant man she had ever met but, it must be hard to be a god who only listens to prayers but never gets anything back. Not even a “thank you” and now, to make things worse, he had to look after a mortal girl who had no clue about anything. She almost face palmed at thinking so little of herself. But she was trying to understand what Kouhei was going through.

She nodded at his last words, her mind was coming up with something. If she was unable to get him out of this deal then there was something she could do for him. She could ensure this year was not as annoying and unbearable as he thought it would be. It was true that she had a temper and that she was rather stubborn and at times made up her mind without consulting anyone. But, she decided she would show him that mortals had their charms, that not everything was so terrible about them and that some could be wonderful persons. She would make him see things differently and hopefully that would help him never get in trouble again and be a bit more mature in that area. Surely without the prayers of mortals, the gods would be restless. She looked up at him and said, “I may be unable to do much but… I know I can help you survive this year and go back home a triumphant god.” She would have to eat her pride and she was ready to do so if that helped make both of them better persons.

“They’re probably not good anyway… Though if it's your cooking or starvation, I suppose I could stomach some..."

She chuckled, actually people enjoyed eating whatever she coked so she was more than certain she could even please a god. But, at this stage she knew both were just having a little banter and did not mean to insult one another. No, it was strange how they suddenly went from disliking each other completely to actually getting on and even fooling around. She wondered when everything changed. But it was probably for the best since they needed to work together and that would be difficult if they did not get on well. Once they put away everything in the caravan she would ensure to give him a couple of tarts and learn his opinion on them. it was one of her most famous deserts, whenever she made them people wanted more. But she did not have the proper utensils or room to make a many as she would like, maybe one day she would open up a shop herself. It was to early to think about that now, you never know what the future holds.

"They can't be as good as my mother’s… Has anyone ever told you that you hit like a girl?"

His mother? She gasped silently and eyed him, he seemed reluctant to talk about her and yet he had brought her up accidentally. Did that mean he was relaxing in her presence and was slowly revealing more information about himself? She felt honoured and actually she liked that, she found she was curious about him and wanted to know more of his past. Maybe that would help her understand him a bit better. But she would not push it, she could be sensible and he did not look like he would enjoy disclosing the subject to her at this very moment. If it was true and he was relaxing in her presence she wanted to respect his silence as much as possible despite her curiosity. She heard his last words and smirked, actually he had touched a nerve but she deemed it was safe to trust him a bit of information about her, maybe that would help him open up as well?

She turned to look into his eyes, “That is only because you receive special treatment, if I treated you like some of my suitors, you would have a broken bone at least.” No, she was not a barbarian but she did protect herself when some men tried to take advantage of her. That is where her whip came into play and she was grateful her father gave it to her. Although, his reasons were so that she could marry with honour, she was still glad he got her a weapon.

”I have heard...all things happen for a reason...we are just not always aware of it at the time.”

“Maybe…” But then fate had not always been a reliable force in her life, at times it had only brought grief and sorrow and loneliness. She had been without a mother for so long and something in the way Kouhei spoke of his own mother measured her that both had lacked a loving parent for many years. It was strange but she felt as if they had more things in common than they realised. now, however, she also believed that a person could change his or her fate if they wished it. She did not want to follow the path drawn for her, she wanted to decide on her own and yet there were perseverant men like Captain Kaien who never gave up.

"Miyu is already convinced of this situation. She and I discussed the arrangement before I came to speak to you.”

Kuno looked into Kouhei’s eyes, he seemed so sure of himself, “Well, it seems you have both thoughts this thorough… However, you have to consider she is my only daughter and I must protect her, ensure she is in safe hands. I need to see this for myself before I give my consent.” It was strange that Kouhei spoke of this with Miyu and yet his daughter had not told him anything, maybe they wanted Kouhei to be the one to break him the news. Still, it was a bit strange that they discussed everything themselves, maybe he wanted to give Miyu a bit more freedom to choose for herself. That was very kind go him, if things did to well and he convinced him of this, he would give her his daughter’s hand. But first he had something do tend to, depending on how serious the boy was of earning his daughter’s hand he would agree or not. After all, he did not wait so many years for his daughter to choose a man she could call a husband and find everything crumble down over a rash decision. He would help them decide, that he knew…

"If it is your wish, I will accompany you.”

Miyu smiled warmly and said, “Thank you Kouhei…” But she could not go wearing this, she knew just the thing she would be wearing. A friend had made her a lovely kimono but she had never had the opportunity to wear it and, what is more, she had been meaning to do so for a while. It was a bit more revealing than her usual clothes but if Kouhei was with her she would not have to worry about filthy men or anything of the sort right? She decided she would close the shop quickly and ten get ready to go.

"It is time to close up, correct? What do you need me to do to help?”

She thought for a moment and said, “I will fill these boxes here with merchandise and you can carry them back into the caravan. Would that be ok?” Come to think of it, now that Kouhei was here it was much easier to get the job done, usually it was always her closing up while her father enjoyed himself with the ladies. She began to quickly fill the boxes and once she was done she emptied the buckets of water at the entrance of the forest. She then returned to the caravan and then remembered her promise to give Kouhei some apple tarts and she took out a place and placed two tarts. She then poured some sour cream on top and handed the place to Kouhei, “Kouhei, I thought you deserved a treat for all your hand work…” And she did not only mean for him carrying the boxes but also for looking after her. She offered him the treat and then smiled, “I will go and get changed, I will not take long.”

She entered the caravan and looked into her chest and smiled when she found the red kimono, it was a lovely colour and it suited her well. Surely she would look more like a lady than a mere girl if she wore this… She blushed lightly and shook her head, what was she thinking? She sighed and then got changed, she then combed her hair and picked one in a small high ponytail while she moved a small pigtail around it and then some hair was still let lose to fall elegantly behind her shoulders and her fringe was in place. She put on perfume and then was bold enough to apply some lip gloss. As she looked int he mirror she froze, why was she doing any of this? She was only going to the fair with Kouhei it wasn't like she was going on a date or anything, and surely he only agreed to go in order to look after her… But then she remembered what he had snapped not too long ago, was she dressing up just because he had hurt her pride? she shook her head, she truly could not understand it now but if she delayed any loner Kouhei might grow tired of waiting. She took a deep breath and then stepped out of the caravan. She walked over to where Kouhei was and she smiled at him. She hoped he had liked the tarts.

- click here to see the Kimono (the one on the left) -

Kouhei felt quite confused when the strange little human began to laugh softly. It was a sound that was soft and melodic, like the tinkling of tiny bells, and was not unpleasant to hear. Still, he was puzzled as to what had triggered this reaction in her. Had he said or done something amusing? Or was this mocking laughter? Was she teasing him somehow? The mere thought of it made his anger want to rise, but he bit back that initial reaction. This next year would pass in misery for the both of them if he always responded with anger. Instead, he took a deep breath and let it out lowly before looking at her curiously once more. “What has...amused you?” The question came out softer than intended, and would've sounded hesitant from anyone but him. Nothing he said seemed unsure, as he had always naturally carried himself with such confidence.

“I may be unable to do much but… I know I can help you survive this year and go back home a triumphant god.”

He could sense that, like himself, Miyu was attempting to make the best of their situation. They both seemed to realize that, like it or not, they were stuck together for the next year, and they would not survive if they didn't both dampen their tempers and pride. Part of him still wished he had ended up with some fearful, meek little human who would be content to hide away for their own safety until the time period had elapsed. And yet, he had to admit, that would be exceedingly dull, and the only thing worse than having to babysit a spoiled little human girl would be to sit in a mortal's house and stare at the walls until the time was up.

So, when he looked at it that way, he was silently a bit grateful to Miyu. She might be annoying and arrogant, but at least he wasn't bored. Not that he would voice any of these thoughts. He was sure it would just make her angry, and he had no energy to deal with that at present.

He was unsure when exactly the mood had shifted between the two of them, but he actually felt some of the tension leave his shoulders as he helped clear away the merchandise for the night. He had half expected her to get angry when he teased about her cooking, and so he felt a bit relieved when she responded good-naturedly. He could silently hear Rishiara saying this meant he was making progress, and with time he might actually make new friends, but he ignored this imagined phantom of his only friend. As it was, he wasn't looking forward to seeing her next. She would no doubt tease him endlessly for ending up in such a situation.

He was still unsure why he had made mention of his mother when teasing Miyu about her tarts. It was a topic he rarely brought up, even with Rishiara, and he seldom even let himself think on it when he was alone. After all this time, the loss of his mother was still painful. But that was simply the way it was with mortals. They were a temporary thing...a fleeting moment in the long span of a god's life. Perhaps that was why he so resented having to protect a mortal, It was true that a single year would pass fairly quickly for him, but that made this whole ordeal feel...pointless.

“That is only because you receive special treatment, if I treated you like some of my suitors, you would have a broken bone at least.”

He couldn't stop the smirk that crossed his lips. “You think quite highly of your abilities, don't you?” His tone was a bit more arrogant, but still teasing. In truth he did not doubt that she was skilled in, at the very least, self-defense. He could sense a warrior's spirit deep inside of the human standing before him. He wondered if she was aware of that spirit, or if it dwelled within like a sleeping dragon, waiting to be summoned from its slumber to display it's ferocity in battle...unnoticed by it's host until the moment it emerged.

”Maybe...”

Discussions of fate and destiny were not usually his strong suit. He had met the Goddess of Fate, and new that Shiranya was a master of her field, just as he was the Master of the Battlefield. For that reason, he tried to never overstep his boundaries when discussing topics he knew other Gods or Goddesses had more control over. Still, he hoped that his words put Miyu's mind at ease, even just a little bit.

“Well, it seems you have both thoughts this thorough… However, you have to consider she is my only daughter and I must protect her, ensure she is in safe hands. I need to see this for myself before I give my consent.”

Kouhei was still quite puzzled by Kuno's words. Why should he have to consent to this arrangement? So far as the God of War was concerned, it was a done deal. He had no choice but to protect Miyu for the next year, and nothing her father said or did would change that. Still, he knew, better than anyone, when to pick his battles, and for the time being, it was simply not worth is to point this out to the man. Instead, he nodded simply, and spoke some general words of understanding in order to move on with the conversation. “I understand. I hope you find the situation to your satisfaction.”

Once it was decided they would attend the fair, he busied himself with helping Miyu pack the remaining merchandise away. The boxes were a bit on the heavy side, but it was nothing for him, and he easily carried them two or three at a time, carefully placing them in the storage area of the caravan. He watched Miyu carry the water to the edge of the forest before finishing his work. It simply seemed logical for him to help her put things away. It would have to be done, with or without him, and he hated sitting idly by while others worked before him. He had just stepped out into the cooling evening air when he heard Miyu approach him once more.

“Kouhei, I thought you deserved a treat for all your hand work… I will go and get changed, I will not take long.”

He had actually forgotten that shed said she'd give him some tarts when the shop was packed up for the night. It seemed his thoughts had been chasing themselves in circles all day, and for a moment he simply stared at the plate she offered him, trying to reason out what it was, and why she was giving it to him. The sight of the tarts brought back the memory of their earlier conversation, and he took the plate carefully. “Thank you, Miyu....”

The look and smell of the tarts brought back a flood of memories and deeply buried emotions. It was as if she had reached into his childhood and plucked up a plate of his favorite treats from his mother's kitchen. Carefully looking up from the plate and meeting her eyes, he listened as she spoke once more, and nodded his understanding. He watched her head inside before tasting the tarts. The flavor was even the same as he remembered. It was as if Miyu had followed his mother's recipe exactly. He knew that was impossible, as his mother had been illiterate and would've been unable to write down her recipe, even if Miyu would've somehow been able to get it from her.

When he finished the tarts, he carried the plate back into the kitchen area, making sure to avoid Miyu's room. He didn't want a repeat of their earlier mishap. He washed the plate in the water waiting for such a purpose, and placed it aside to dry before returning to his earlier location to wait. While he waited, he made sure to brush any stray crumbs away, and to straighten his clothing. He was not wearing any of his armor, as he had not been planning to enter battle, and deemed it would look somewhat out-of-place at a small town fair. He combed his fingers through his deep red hair, smoothing out a few tangles caused by the wind. That done, he decided he looked quite presentable and was ready to go whenever Miyu was.

It was not for her, he silently assured himself, that he tidied himself up. He was a God, after all, and therefore he needed to look his best, whatever the situation.

He was standing with his back to the caravan, staring up at the low, full moon that was just beginning to peek over the horizon. He heard soft, padding footsteps behind him, and turned to watch as Miyu approached. The moment his eyes landed on her, he felt his breath catch in his throat for just an instant. So thorough was the transformation, that he could scarcely believe this was the same woman he had spent all day with. He had never been one to pay much attention to the aesthetic of beauty. Pretty things were seldom useful in battle, after all. And yet, he could not deny that Miyu made a lovely impression as she walked toward him. For the first time, he felt as if this woman would need protecting, as he was sure many an unscrupulous man would take notice of her, and may even try to force attentions or affections she did not desire. Yes, he would take his role as her escort seriously this evening.

When she stopped before him, he was able to speak without giving hint of his earlier surprise. “The tarts were good.” It was an understatement, but he couldn't think of how to relay the depth of feelings they had inspired, Hopefully she would not think this an insult to her cooking abilities. “Also...you look nice.” Rishiara often said women liked to be complimented, so he hoped that might put Miyu more at ease. “If you are ready, we can go.”

He looked at the path leading into town, and noticed it looked a bit uneven. He had no doubts that he could quickly and easily navigate with his sturdy boots, but would Miyu have issues with the shoes she wore? “If you wish to take my arm to steady yourself you may...” He extended his elbow toward her slightly, just in case.

Once that matter was settled, he began to walk down the path toward the town fair. It was natural for him to take long strides at a quick pace, as that was always how he walked, but he made a conscious effort to shorten and slow his pace so that Miyu could easily keep up.

“What has...amused you?”

Miyu blushed slightly for a moment. She had almost hoped he had not heard her. She looked into his eyes for a moment, albeit there was slight anger in them she mainly discovered curiosity. And his voice did not show proof of any such anger. So she decided that, since there had been a change in how the addressed each other and they were not mainly arguing rather than having friendly conversation… There was no harm in telling him, right? She looked down for a moment before she looked back up at him, her hand gently playing with a lock of her pink hair, “Actually, I was just comparing the current situation I’m in regarding these suitors and… how you would have handled the situation if our roles were exchanged.” She shrugged and smirked, “I assumed you would just cut them in half for daring to approach you.” She was not criticising or making fun of him, rather, there was mirth in her eyes and a hint of jealousy for she wished she could have the power to push away all these suitors who were only after her inheritance and reputation. After all, her father was well known everywhere, for two reasons, one he was clearly a Casanova and she had decided to ignore that part of him years ago, and the other he was an outstanding merchant and had charisma and charm.

Miyu was relieved when Kouhei seemed to be on the same page as her. Maybe they started on the wrong foot but could actually get along. I was too early to assume such but, for the time being, she would grant hi another chance and hoped that by making a better acquaintance they would indeed work together and reach their goals in unison and hopefully something good would come out of this. He looked much more relaxed and for that she was thankful as that meant she could also relax and release the tension that once dictated their every word. She was almost glad they had met, but she was not entirely sure why. In a way it was a bit more trouble her way, as she would be dealing with gods, and yet again it would be an adventure like no other and she welcomed the change to her rather repetitive life.

This was her chance to have a friend, she had often resented the gods for being such a lonely person, even though her father was a merchant and she had many suitors. Few of them really wanted to get to know her or be her friend, mainly they talked to her out of convenience and well, her father was often out charming women, so now, for the first time in a long time she felt happy. Her eyes sparkled and she smiley gently, yes, she was looking forward to getting to know Kouhei better and get rid of her lonely monologues.

”You think quite highly of your abilities, don't you?”

She grinned and raised an eyebrow, “I can show you whenever you like.” She knew he was teasing but she could play that game. Besides, having a sparring partner would be nice rather than her practice dummies or waiting for a suitor to be foolish enough to try anything that would force her hand in self-defence. She then smirked, Kouhei probably had no idea what he had signed up to but she was truly grateful for this situation even though it cost her some injuries and insufferable arguments with Kouhei when they first met.

“I understand. I hope you find the situation to your satisfaction.”

Kuno thought for a moment looking back at Miyu as she worked, he was not sure why he was so concerned about her happiness all of a sudden. He had not been a good father for her all these years. Maybe something inside him told him it was only fair on Miyu to choose her life partner. He noted and said looking back at the young man, “As soon as it's what Miyu wants and you make the proposition like a gentleman and promise to always look after her and make her happy. I have nothing else to say on the matter that could concern me.” Kuno knew Miyu could lock up the caravan as soon as they headed out. He was not sure why but he had decided to allow Miyu some time off the usual duties she carried out before she went to sleep in order to get to know her new suitor. Maybe this young man was the one he had been waiting for. A reliable warrior to protect and provide for Miyu and make her happy as he knew well that he had never been tried to make her happy. She was a lonely child he raised as he saw fit, but he never offered her the affection of a responsible and loving father. He ran a hand through his pink hair and finally left to go about his business before leaving with the ladies.

“Thank you, Miyu….”

It were there simple words that were commonly used to express gratitude and yet she felt her cheeks warm and her heart beat increase. The way his eyes looked at the tarts she could tell he had a sweet touch as she had suspected. But there was more to that look, was it… nostalgia? Did her tarts transport him into long-gone but wonderful memories? Maybe she should make him sweets as often as possible, she was not sure why she wanted to see a smile across his lips more often, but it made her feel harm and fuzzy inside. Maybe it was a good thing and she should do as she planned.

There was certainly more to Kouhei than meets the eye.

And she would find out.

When she came out of the caravan and locked up she was not sure how to approach Kouhei, the confident Miyu suddenly felt shy. It wasn’t an easy task to get all quaffed and dressed to the nines and have one’s date give a glance of disapproval. So at the beginning she considered not looking into his eyes, but… she was not sure why she wanted this approval. It wasn’t really a “date," or was it? She had literally waved some tickets at him and invited him to go to the fair with her. She blushed lightly considering how bold she had been in doing so. But it could not be undone.

When their eyes met, she noticed he looked as if he had also tried to sort his hair and attire and it made her smile. It was kind of adorable really, but she would not tell him. It would enrage him, she was sure, men did not like to be adorable. But it still made her smile. She noticed a change in his eyes as he looked at her and she blushed. It was the approval she had been hoping for. And she was relieved.

“The tarts were good.”

She smiled at him. It was her turn to tease him though, “I did tell you that you would like them”. She was not too harsh with the teasing though as it was a newly discovered means of communications that she was still testing with Kouhei. “If you behave I might make you more.” Unfortunately he had the last two tarts, but she could make them without looking at the recipe by now, she had experimented for years to get it right.

“Also...you look nice.”

She was not expecting that and she felt greatly embarrassed. How could he say things like that without any fear? How could he be so confident? She looked down for a moment finding herself smiling before she looked up at him again and said softly, “Thank you,”

“If you are ready, we can go… If you wish to take my arm to steady yourself you may…”

She looked at his outstretched arm for a moment, the rebellious part of her knew she was not a fable woman and she had worn attires like this one before. And yet… She blushed and gently placed her hand on his shoulder. “Thank you.” She whispered while covering her face with her fan in embarrassment. What was wrong with her? Perhaps, this one time, she wanted to be protected and feel… fragile and yet safe. Yes, she knew Kouhei would be strong enough to protect her and it allowed her to be more in touch with her feminine side.

She noticed he was also careful when walking and ensured not to move too fast so she could not keep up. This change in her was impressive, and her opinion of him changed dramatically that evening. As she looked up at him her eyes softened and showed slight hints of affection that she did not know were there. And yet for a moment she looked at what decorated his chest. Was that?

Why was he wearing her father’s medallion? As they neared the fair she said softly, “What… conversation did you have with my father?” He had never taken that medallion off and he had always told Miyu that he would only do so if one of her suitors asked for her hand abasing all odds. She blushed, surely he had not misinterpreted her relationship with Kouhei. Or did he actually ask him to be her husband? Surely he would tell her of news such as those… Besides, did he not say how humans disgusted him?

As expected, as soon as they reached the fair, men turned to look their way and their eyes fixed on Miyu and she wished she could hide behind Kouhei due to the lustful glances they were giving her. Her grip on his shoulder increased as she tried to ignore the men and think of what they could do in the fair. There was a boat ride, they could get on board and Kouhei could row, it was a beautiful lake decorated with colourful and sparkling flowers, she wondered if magic was used for such purposes. “Could we… do that?” She blushed and looked away, she was not sure why it seemed that a mouse caught her tongue. She was feeling so shy and she was not sure why.