“You know what I expect you to do…and…what would happen should you fail right?”

A cold voice sneered while a callused hand caressed a tanned cheek and then toyed with beautiful long strands of red hair. He smirked darkly and his eyes shone for he was used to tempting those he commanded, although he had never touched Akahana for she was his masterpiece, the best servant he had ever created and he had shattered her younger dreams so he believed he had nothing to fear. There was no way out once Zuku found you and claimed you as his slave, you could run, travel the world and hide in the most auspicious place, but he would always find you. She knew of many he had found and killed after beating them up and, in most cases, raping them leaving no trace of humanity left. Yes, he rewarded them and allowed them certain liberties but treason was punishable by death. As he spoke and taunted her walking around her she did not stir, her body did not shake or show fear albeit it was tense and easy to draw her blades should the need arise and her deep scarlet eyes shone life fire. Her voice was cold and determined, “I will not fail.” That was what he expected her to say, he expected many things of her and at times the pressure was too much to handle. If it hadn’t been for the books she read in her spare time she would have lost all chances to survive many years ago.

He smirked and nodded, long dark hair as the night shook with the blowing wind, however, it was not as sublime as her truly long hair that shone with the fury of fire. She soon earned the nickname of the Red Rose, and her affiliation to the red mythological dragon was symbolised through the tattoo on her arm, on the back of the lower forearm. Maybe that was what made her more fiery and intense, few managed to look into her eyes without shaking or even going mad with fear or angst. Without another word she snatched the address from an outstretched hand and jumped off the roof of a tall building and then tossed a rope that immediately found a place to secure itself and she was gone from his sight. Zuku was a dark man, one so used to killing that he could never work as anything else but an underboss. Many feared his name and in a way the city gravitated around him. It was astounding and at the same time terrifying how one single man could control so much power.

Akahana took to running once she was aware that no one had seen her land. At this point at night no one would know, they would be too busy living with the stress of daily life, to notice someone running in the opposite direction like a shadow, her quick movements were precise and even the movement of her legs or her breathing were completely inaudible to human ears. Her own fiery hair did not stand in the way and perfectly matched her feline-like movements. She stopped behind a wall as a group of policemen walked past and she held her breath. Once they were gone she slid past them and kept on running. She would have to cover a long distance but she was used to trusting her legs more than any other means to transport and she grinned as she quickened the pace reaching the outskirts eventually. Now, she knew she had to keep on going until she found what looked like a field of rice and then take to the mountains. But she stopped for a moment and drank some water, without hydrating herself she would not last long no matter how athletic she could be.

There was something on the horizon, something in the stars and the moon that was too mysterious and she was not sure what it could be exactly. And almost as if her questions had been answered, she saw, or at least she thought she saw, the shape of a blue dragon. What could be the meaning of this? She raised an eyebrow and drank some more water before she resumed her running. Her senses perked as if she could feel something she could not recognise warning her about something. Her body tensed for a moment but she decided to ignore that feeling as it would not get her task done.

Now, she was not the most caring person in the world, quite frankly she was anything but that and no one could blame her. She did not have the most enjoyable childhood after all. However, something in her heart stirred when she came across a house that had probably been set on fire and had by now burned to the ground. She could see the incinerated remains of the people who lived in it. She knew this had been done on purpose and yet, could not avoid thinking back to when her mother had been killed and she had run away from her pursuer to bump into someone who was probably much worse in many ways. She sighed and felt as if something called her name or drew her toward the burning home.

A voice in her head kept telling her that she had no time to lose, she had a job waiting for her and Zuku would have a go at her if she failed to do as instructed. But this longing, this force was much stronger than her own reason. Besides, she was as curious as a cat, once something grabbed her attention she would study such. Yes, she was dead stubborn as much as she was proud and even Zuku lost his mind over small things of the sort with Akahana. Yet the red-haired woman was rather intelligent and would never let him win those battles of wits they engaged each other in. She shrugged off her duty, she was very close to the house of the person she had to steal from, so taking a peek would harm no one. Besides, she could probably find something useful she could take, they would no longer need their belongings right? A dark gleam lit in her eyes as she walked about the ashes and sighed, there were lots of useful things but most had been destroyed with the fire, what a waste… However, just as she turned to leave something urged her toward what seemed to be the staircase. There was a loose brick there and she held her breath and removed it, and inserted her hand after making sure nothing strange could be found there and her hands caught something and she slowly pulled it out.

She did not know but this finding would change her life forever. It was a book called “The Universe of the Four Gods” and she found it in an abandoned house which had collapsed during a fire many years ago? Why had no one reported this house? Why had no one ever removed this pitiful scene and built a park or something? She sighed and finally left the house and walked over to the top of a tree. She always felt safer in the heights than on the ground. she blew on the book harshly and took in its words, apparently it was a Chinese myth and she was lucky she could read Chinese, after all, Zuku instructed her well in many things and he had even taught her about these four gods although not a great deal. He was not fond of literature and mythology and rather the skills that would help his minions to do his dirty work for him.

Opening the first page, though, a deep blue light emerged and within seconds she felt herself surrounded by the powerful light and being transported someplace. What was the meaning of this? She was not drunk or anything…how could this be happening when there was no such thing as magic? She decided she would question everything once she arrived. Although, when she did, she was not awake. It took her a couple of minutes to stir away and realise she was in the middle of a road that connected a village and its pub with a forest. She rubbed the back of her head and slowly stood up wondering where she could be, but her thoughts were interrupted as looking behind her she could see two men had been talking about the sleeping form and the looks they gave her as they looked at her rather revealing attire made her sick and she rolled her eyes. Why must everyone always make such a fuss over things that made her comfortable and were up to her to wear?

She decided to ignore them and went past them, hitting one of them on the shoulder and forcing him to move to the side, wincing at her unnatural strength and speed. She probably practiced a lot with her sword right? The man eyed the other and both frowned and drew their blades. One of them whistled and three more men followed them, and just behind the nearest Inn Akahana sighed and turned to look behind her. So there were six men now right? Seriously? Why did she have to bother?

She reluctantly looked at them and sneered, “Can I help you?” The men laughed darkly and their leader said, “Oh… you will help us my dear…” She smirked and crossed her arms around her chest, giving them a challenging stare, “Are you sure? I would wish to live another day if I were any of your men…”

The men slightly retreated but their leader growled and then moved forward, forcing his body on hers, one hand moving to caress her hair. The way her deep scarlet eyes burned with rage could be easily understood. He had just signed his death warrant for daring to touch her this way. No sooner had his hand touched her long smooth hair, did he land on the floor dead. Blood poured from his chest and she removed the small dagger and cleansed it on his cloak. She stepped on his back and walked forth, “Anyone else?” She raised an eyebrow as the men now looked scared and at the same time annoyed, they roared and charged at her, but she took pity on these pathetic minions and decided to knock them all unconscious. And so, one by one, she drew her twin blades and with one she would parry the attacks and with the other she would hit them on the groin with the hilt and then on the back of the head. Once she was done her body was exhilarated due to the adrenaline rush and she still held her twin blades defensively as a light blue light surrounded her, what was this again? Why did a deep light emerge? She raised an eyebrow and stood there still, the men on the floor unconscious. They would have a big headache when they awoke, that should teach them…

Shun Yutai was a responsible man. He took all of his duties seriously, from filling his empire to preparing for the arrival of the Miko, as one of her seven Seishi. He'd been lucky that the former presented him with a few advantages with the latter. He'd already gathered some of his fellow Seishi at the palace, and had plans in place for Even he would have to set out with them to find the rest and protect the Miko.

The thing was… Shun was also, in many ways, a very typical young man. He still wanted to sleep away from all that responsibility, if only for an hour or two, and let his hair down, so to speak. He wanted to unwind and spend some time with his friends.

It was the worst kept secret among his advisors. Any time the fairly robust Emperor claimed a headache and slipped away to his room for the evening, he was likely in need of a break. if his personal guard Shian and General Isogaishi also made their excuses, the three would be slipping off for the nearest tavern. Most of his younger advisors found this somewhat amusing, although many of the ones that carried over from his father's time as Emperor would simply shake their heads and ask what could be done about young men.

This was one of those evenings. The three men were cheerfully walking down the forest path that led to the first tavern outside the capital proper. Shun liked going to the smaller places, as there was less likelihood of running into nobles and having to behave politically, rather than relaxing. He was dressed in plain clothes, well made but fairly unremarkable and His short brown hair hung down to his shoulders, and he wore a cloak to disguise the very simple sword that he carried. He looked much like any other guard, off duty and ready to come have fun. Just one of the guys.

Ryou was less ordinary in appearance, dressed in some of his nicer casual clothes, usually selected to draw the attention of any ladies nearby. Old habits die hard, and he couldn't give up dressing this way, even if there was now only one woman he was interested in paying attention to. Tonight, his long blue hair was braided and light gray eyes sparkled with laughter as he walked along in shades of black, blue, and gray that complemented his coloring.

"I mean it…" he was saying to his companions as they rounded a bend in the road, and continued. They would soon be able to see the tavern. "If you guys really want to let loose, and actually relieve some stress, I know just the place."

"I am not going to a brothel." Shun said with a note of finality. It would have no impact on the conversation, but it was there nonetheless.

"It's a reputable one!" Ryou countered. "The girls are adorable. There's this one-"

"Do you want to finish that sentence, knowing that I can tell Hisoka-chan when I see her in the morning?" Shun asked with a raised eyebrow.

Ryou scowled and crossed his arms. "Well, I would naturally stay at the tavern while you two-"

The conversation broke off suddenly as they all laid eyes on the scene playing out between themselves and the tavern. From their place still hidden among the trees, the three men could see that a strange young woman was harassed by several men. Both Shun and Ryou stepped forward, ready, without hesitation, to assist the lady when…

Well, she proved she didn't need it.

Shun gasped softly, feeling a familiar warmth on his cheek, and knew his symbol was glowing. He didn't have to look at Ryou to know his symbol probably was as well. It was odd, but he felt it deep within. This red haired warrior woman was their Seriyuu no Miko. When he finally spoke, his voice was pitch slow, just for his companions, and perhaps a little tense. "Ryou…"

"I feel it too." He confirmed quietly. "I'll just go get the authorities to come deal with these losers, if you two think you can handle her."

Shun took a deep breath. "We can handle this, go on." He glanced over to make sure that he had been heard, but the General had already taken off. Sometimes he forgot just how fast his friend could move, when using his Seishi abilities. He looked to his other side, and finally spoke directly to his other friend. His best friend. "She's the Miko, Shian. We've got to calm her down and get her back to the palace safely…"

Truly a commoner, as neither of his companions ever had been, Shian nevertheless strode alongside the pair just as though they were equals, because despite how dutiful and merciless he was in his role as the Emperor's personal guard, he had known Shun long enough to recognize when his long time friend needed a break, to socialize with his friends, instead of being fawned over by servants or delegates. In evenings like this one, after long days of all of them performing their duties as required, this was exactly the sort of activity to soothe weary nerves: an evening where duties and roles could be sloughed off, and the simple companionship of friends enjoyed. So despite the sword at his hip, only half hidden by his cloak - as the common folk knew him by sight, and knew that he would not cause trouble, though none gave him enough attention to suspect his otherwise high position - he shook his head mildly at Ryou, clearly well accustomed to this sort of commentary from him.

"Of all the ways a man may spend his idle time, women are the most treacherous one, my friend." A dismissive gesture punctuates his comment. "They will promise all the delicacies and dreams your mind can conceive, and then twist it beyond your wildest comprehension or expectation by a single added or removed word." A little grin, as he moves more onto the lighthearted end of the subject. "The only defense a man has is to learn their art with words, in order to keep them at safe distance." A smirk. "Even your favored lady can do it, well enough, when she tries. Why, I remember last week-"

The scene they come upon silences him, and a hand goes instantly to his sword, swinging the lose fabric of his cloak back in a soundless, graceful gesture. His eyes remain fixed on the scene as the red haired woman handles her opponents quite efficiently, not even glancing up at the pair of soft lights coming from the other men; he was familiar enough with them to understand what was meant by this. He has shifted from friend to guardian with stunning speed, and thus he sacrifices barely enough of his attention to listen to and respond to Shun. "If that is so… then perhaps it would be best not to frighten her further, a group of men, like us." He unfastens the sword at his waist, and thrusts it carefully into his friend's hand. "Given your… talents... with the women, perhaps I'd better calm her, first. Stay here."

With only that commentary, showing both a faith in Shun to protect himself in familiar territory with no imminent danger, and in his own ability to keep himself alive - even visibly disarmed - should this woman attack him in her understandable tension, the youngest of the three steps forward, tone soft and casual, and hands a little out from his sides, so she can see that he hold no weapon. "When they speak of the wicked tongues of women, they do not do justice to those twin beauties of yours… but men would be equally wise to mind both." A soft smile. "Yīkáo Shian, of the Imperial guard." A hand moves to his shoulder, to brush back the cloak enough to reveal a symbol there, usually hidden by the folds of fabric, that shows his allegiance. "You are a traveler, I take it? Rest assured that men of that kind are not permitted to walk freely, in Kutou. They are the exception, rather than the rule."

Kazune had a deceptive appearance and demeanor. She was a small young woman was pale white hair and large eyes, and when approached, she had a soft-spoken voice, and was even polite. It was only when someone threatened her or her friends that they found out that she was not so harmless. She and her mother had had their nobility re-instated by the emperor of Kutou, a friend of hers. She could hardly believe it most days. He had found her in their forest hideaway, after a bit of convincing, brought them back to a life of peace and friendship. Something Kazune had never really known.

Shun...it had taken her weeks to get used to calling him that, was on a stroll with a couple of friends, and she had joined them at first, but their talk had caused her attention to drift. She felt safe and calm in the forest, so she excused herself while she went to look at a patch of bright blue flowers. Her mother had wanted that shade for a dress she was making.

Of course, she hadn't dropped her guard completely. While she could sense her friends' emotions as calm and jovial, she sensed something...untoward in the distance, and while she followed her curiosity, she kept away from that. While her life in the palace was peaceful far more than she had even dared to dream, the fear of those planning to do harm was never far. She wasn't sure what that untoward-ness was she was feeling. It was too far away, but it made her uneasy, and Shun was always respectful when she needed space. From here, it could have been anything from a hunter on the prowl to...well, she didn't want to think of what else.

The small seishi strode along the forest floor away from the path, keeping in pace with her friends, and sensing their direction. They drew closer to the knot of unusual feelings, and she began to see that they were at the very least chaotic. Were she by herself, they'd likely trigger a confrontation. If they came upon Shun and his guards, they could easily handle themselves. Still, she began to speed up. Something told her this wasn't right.

The forest floor began to be too much for her feet to tread on, so she skipped to the beaten path for a faster route, keeping her panic in check. If she got there and nothing had happened...Well, then everything would be all right. But, if she got there and she could have warned everyone...

Suddenly, a new presence appeared among the chaotic emotions, someone confused. They immediately turned malicious and ...Kazune shuddered and ran. As she did, she felt the air tingle with lightning that she hadn't summoned yet. Blinking, she glanced down at her right ankle. Her seishi character was glowing! Could it be?

She ran up to the group just in time for Shun to confirm that the miko had appeared. She covered her mouth as she gasped and saw a flash of red hair. She saw the men on the ground and blinked, this time in confusion. "Shun-san...I didn't sense any of you fighting with them...was that all her?"

Akahana did not need to blink to sense someone nearby. Someone watching her as she knocked the men out and she smirked, could it be another bandit? Was it another man hungry for some action? She had seen it all, and confronted it all. She sensed more than one, three perhaps? It could be said that for her age she had lived quite terrifying experiences and that was not everything, she had been forced to be the person she now was. On the one hand, she was glad she could fight and stand her ground since men seemed keen on taking advantage of a woman or innocent and defenceless people in general. It enabled her to use skills she had not known she possessed and though her mentor was the one person she hated the most, she was the person that now stood before a defeated foe because of him. And where was he now? Where was she? She kept looking around and sheathed her weapons after ensuring she was still looking clean and tidy. She prided herself in ensuring she stayed presentable no matter the task. She noticed a change in the people watching, one of them started to approach. She was not the kind of savage woman to simply raise a weapon without any need. She ran a hand through her long red hair and it shook violently behind her as a cool breeze moved around her.

It was at that moment that she decided to acknowledge the men that were staring at her, just to make sure her suspicions were correct and they posed no threat. All of them looked like respectable men, one perhaps slightly less than the other due to his attire. Is that concern she saw in their eyes? Or shock? True, she was not the typical helpless maid that needed protecting so it is no wonder that they would be unsure as to how to handle her after that recent incident and, she could not blame them. She would be weary but then again she does not trust anyone. She was glad she seated her weapons or things would have looked more awkward for her.

She was not sure what to make of what happened next, one of them seemed to glow, same colour as hers when she was brought into this world, a light blue light. And then he moved at a speed she had never been able to replicate no matter how many years she trained on sprinting. In her surprise she nearly tripped on one of the fallen men and in her haste to avoid it, unbeknownst to her she found herself avoiding the man and standing closer to the men as if she had moved as fast as that man who left in a rush. She stood there for a moment, what had just happened? For someone who did not believe in magic, despite being interested in all sorts of topics found in books, she was shocked at the power she suddenly felt inside her. And then she seemed to sense confusion, concern, but she was not entirely sure about these emotions and she knew very well she was not their owner. Could it be one of the men? But how could she sense what they were feeling? That was ridiculous.

And yet… Of the two men remaining in her company, another one was enveloped in blue light, the same light… What could this mean? She was not sure what to make of her current situation but she was used to liking at things with a clear head, otherwise, she would not survived for as long as she had due to her current way of life, not by choice though.

Now, the sight that greeted her next was quite unexpected. The other man, approached her. He was probably a warrior of some sort and the way he walked, he was probably a soldier as well. She could have smirked when she realised the way he walked forth, as if he feared she might devour him with any wrong move. He placed his sword in the hands f of the man who waited for her. He seemed to be a man well versed in the art of war, who had trained for countless years to be the best and yet never took it lightly when his pride was offended, and this man seemed to be ignoring these in order to create a sense that he meant her no harm. But she knew he probably did not need a weapon to fight. It was ironic how both were so proficient and she could sense the warrior in him, relentless and stubborn. Just like her.

She allowed him to approach her and she kept her hands to her sides, so that she could draw her weapons if need be but also keep a friendly and neutral stance if he meant her no harm. She would play this game to learn who these people were and what she was here. She was not as heatless as Zuku wanted her to believe she was… Her fiery scarlet eyes examined him with great curiosity and he kept on walking forth. She wondered if he was foolish for doing so or rather fearless. Yet, would that not contradict the way in which he approached her? She could not stop a brief grin from caressing her carmine lips, but she did not utter a word, she was much smarter than that. She did notice everything he wished to reveal about himself as he walked forth, like the crest in his armour. He was a smart man.

She was not sure where this came from but, when looking back at the man, and noticing a woman now staring next to him, she felt as if she knew them, she whispered almost to herself, “The ‘Heart’, ‘Tassel’ and ‘High Spirits’”… They were her Seishi. She blinked, what? Her what? She had just arrived from her world into this strange book. Yes, that had happened to her, she had been drawn to the book and now she had a feeling she had an important role to play in this story? And then suddenly someone connected to her approached her out of nowhere? Right, at least he was not threatening her like these morons had but… what was going on? She was truly confused but she did not want to appear weak until she knew she could trust this man. And so she decided to allow him to approach close enough and hopefully they spoke the same language even…

"When they speak of the wicked tongues of women, they do not do justice to those twin beauties of yours… but men would be equally wise to mind both… Yīkáo Shian, of the Imperial guard… You are a traveler, I take it? Rest assured that men of that kind are not permitted to walk freely, in Kutou. They are the exception, rather than the rule.”

There was something about this man, she was not quite sure at first, was it an air of reliability? Was it that she sensed he could be her equal in many ways? Judging by the way he carried himself, like the master conductor of an orchestra who knows exactly what sounds he wants to mix together in order to reach his aim and charm those around him. Yes, he clearly had a way with words and she knew someone else who did… and yet they seemed to use them for two different objectives, or at least she hoped he would not turn out to be like Zuku. It would be an ordeal to escape him only to find him again. She blinked once as she noticed his piercing eyes staring into her own.

She smirked at his first words and yet was surprised she found mirth in their conversation at such an early stage. Yes, this man was a master with words and she would not be surprised if such skill extended to poetry, something she had enjoyed reading, among many other kinds of books, but could never replicate. She eyed him curiously for a moment before she decided to reply at his teasing comment, “These ‘beauties’ only come out if a person really asks for it. Should women suffer the label of their wickedness for the sake of defending honour upon scorn?” She was not unreasonable, and as they could probably see by the men starring from unconsciousness, she had not hurt them much, she did not intend to. She only killed… because she had to. Such weight burdened her shoulders while most women enjoyed all the intricacies of the gentler sex. Looking at the palms of her hands and remembering Zuku she snapped them closed and looked away.

Her fiery eyes looked back at the sound of his name, he trusted her enough to reveal his name? Where she came from it was a rather… personal thing to do. And yet, he had the ability to make her for the first time in her life itch to trust someone, to be connected to one person. Looking into his eyes with more determination she said, “Eriko Akahana.”

She nodded to his assumption that she was a traveler, “Aye, I believe so although all reason dictates I believe this implausible and a mere dream, or nightmare, I am yet to decide…” To his last words she smirked but nodded, “It would pose a problem to the innocent to come across men of this… kind. Yet I believe your words, albeit, I could come up with a better punishment than incarceration. Prison will not lead room for introspection, but perhaps service toward the local businesses or buildings in this city would be more beneficial…” She knew that, where she came from, people only resented their liberties being taken, but what if they et to know the local population better? What if they realise they can take price in labour and find better ways to make use of their leisure time?

“I am not sure where I am, as you can tell, nor what I am doing here…” And yet, I seemed to sense meaning in the power my so-called Seishi posses. And yet, the term is alien to me…” She looked into his eyes hoping that this would not sound like she was a crazy person.

"If that is so… then perhaps it would be best not to frighten her further, a group of men, like us. Given your… talents... with the women, perhaps I'd better calm her, first. Stay here."

Shun gave a soft snort. Was now really the time for his old friend to tease him about flirting? Well, he supposed that an evening out with friends had been the entire point of this excursion. He had half a mind to be annoyed with Shian, but it passed quickly. He saw the wisdom in approaching the young woman carefully. She had no way of knowing that she could trust them, after all. He sensed more than saw when Kazune joined him, and he shifted Shian’s sword belt to loop over his shoulder to give himself a free hand.

"Shun-san...I didn't sense any of you fighting with them...was that all her?"

He looked down at her. He always felt the strangest urge to protect her, even though he knew the extent of her ability to do so for herself. “Chie-san, I thought perhaps you had tired of the uncouth company of three men and returned to the palace." This teasing comment, more at himself and his other two companions than her, out of the way, he addressed her question. “It was. I would scarcely believe it had I not seen it myself. Yet I am as sure as if there was a banner to announce it… This young warrior is our Miko. I fear the trouble that must be destined to head our way if Seriyuu saw the need to select such a skilled combatant for our Priestess." He turned his attention back to Shian as he watched his friend talk to the young woman. He was relieved when it seemed she did not intend to attack him until he gave her cause to. He listened to the young woman talk, and was mildly impressed. In addition to her skill with the blade, she seemed to be very wise. What a fascinating woman…

"I am not sure where I am, as you can tell, nor what I am doing here… And yet, I seemed to sense meaning in the power my so-called Seishi posses. And yet, the term is alien to me…”

Only years of practice in political situations kept his surprise from showing on his face. She knew them already? At least in some way? He had never heard of a Miko who had known anything of their world when she arrived, least of all instinctually knowing that they were called Seishi and owed allegiance to her. Taking a calculated risk, he offered Kazune his arm out of habit and courtesy - it was something he did without thinking whenever walking with a lady - before he moved slowly to join the young woman and his friend, though he made sure to stand back enough that she would not feel crowded or confined. He felt Ryou return, a familiar presence just behind them as he looked to the redhead, offering Shian his sword belt back almost absently. “Akahanna-sama, I am Yutai Shun, ruler of this land, and I would be glad to answer all of your questions to the best of my ability, if you feel you can trust us well enough to accompany us back to the palace. I give you my vow that none among my party wish to do you any harm, and indeed, myself, Chie-san and Ryou are duty bound to aid you, as your Seishi.” He motioned to each in turn, as a means of introduction. Shortly after, a small group of soldiers tasked with patrolling the roads to the capital appeared and began to round up the injured men, dragging them off while doing their best not to interrupt the conversation going on nearby. Shun ignored them, giving his full attention to his Miko, though his posture and expression were both friendly and nonthreatening. He did not fear coming to harm at her hands, and his soft green eyes conveyed that she need not fear them either.

A startled little smirk worked onto the angled brown features as the intelligence and wittiness of Akahana’s response met his ears. Unlike so many of the pretty but ultimately vapid noblewomen he was so often exposed to - for even those who were supposedly “educated” had few original thoughts in their minds - this woman clearly had both her own mind, and the boldness to use it, where it was appropriate. As a result, his response came with a rumble at the base of his throat, marking restrained amusement of his own. “Quite to the contrary - it is the privilege of women to apply their brand of wickedness where it is needful and fitting. In some cases, there is cause. In which case, I suppose, it could be stated that the application of the term “wickedness” could be argued to be a matter of semantics. Would you-?”

His intention to pursue this conversation with her further, and thus determine whether she was worth further interest beyond the obvious need to protect her as the Miko, was interrupted by the approach of the Emperor. Eyes widened a little to find his friend not alone, as he had expected he would be, but rather accompanied by Kazune. He’d been aware that she’d come along, of course, but when she diverted from the path, he had believed that it was with the intention of going to do… well, whatever it was that women did, when the men went to the tavern together. The equivalent social activity for women, not that he knew what it was. It was with some chagrin that he recalled the conversation that he and the other two men had been engaged in on their way here, and with a mental cringe, he hoped that neither Kazune nor Akahana had overheard much of it. Surely, none of them would have pursued such a topic, if they thought they could be overheard.

All of these thoughts passed through his mind in a split second, without any accompanying expression of acknowledgment on his features, as Shun crossed to them, and without pause, he gave the more formal bow that he used to greet Shun in more official terms, when they were not alone. Taking his sword back from his friend and slinging it from his waist once more, he addressed Akahana again, this time a bit more formally. “There are many more pleasant and secure places to have a discussion of this kind, as the Emperor suggests, Akahana-sama. Arrangements can be made for a place to rest, as well as any nourishment or comforts that you may require while your curiosities and confusions are clarified. Perhaps-” And here, his gaze divided between the Miko and the three Seishi, “With permission, I will go ahead of you to the palace, and speak with my Emperor’s staff, to ensure that such preparations are made for our guest.”

Deep scarlet eyes looked at Shian. She was rather curious and until he decided he was standing close enough, she enjoyed taking in every single detail of a person she conversed with. Zuku trained her well for his own selfish ends. She could tell he could use his weapons quite skilfully, and she discovered a hint of excuse pride. He was good at what he did and he would take offence if anyone else though otherwise. Was he expecting to come out the hero in this little confrontation? She needed no saviour, or so she thought, she was too proud to admit that entering this book and escaping her daily life was a real treat, in fact, if she managed to settle here there was no need for her to go back nor for Zuku to realise where she had escaped to. It was probably selfish of her to think that way but, who would not in her situation? After all, she was taken by this man and trained to be a mere weapon of destruction to fulfil his selfish ends. Never was she treated like a person and her coldness was becoming of the way he made her watch him harm young me and women, children at times, yes, she would not miss her past life. Back then she had resigned to that way of life, after all, there was no way to escape Zuku, even if she travelled to other countries he would find her, his network was that externes and with the modern technology it was nearly impossible to fool Zuku.

Although, it was her beauty and skills what had spared her the fate of most of his pupils, he had not touched her although she had still been tortured. Her long red hair shook with the blowing wind, it was getting colder and yet, she did not mind. She could still recall the many times she had been tied to a wall and forced to sleep in the cold, if you could call that sleeping. She had shed many tears back then, perhaps all the tears she could ever have in a lifetime. And no one came to her aid. Zuku stumped on her dreams and hopes and created a being he only used as a blade, nothing more. She even spoke little, and Zuku seldom kept his servants in the same place stopping them form getting on and escaping. You could say he was a manipulative tyrant, but he had the power and influence to do as he willed and no one would stop him. Her eyes fixed upon Shian once more and she wondered exactly what was this strange sensation in her heart and mind.

“Quite to the contrary - it is the privilege of women to apply their brand of wickedness where it is needful and fitting. In some cases, there is cause. In which case, I suppose, it could be stated that the application of the term “wickedness” could be argued to be a matter of semantics. Would you-?”

She had always believed that with how Zuku broke her and shaped her into a weapon that she was no longer able to have feelings or even show anything on her face besides anger and absolute darkness. But there was something in the conversation she was having with Shian that she felt her body relieve tension and realise that, she was actually enjoying their conversation. She heard him laugh and something happened, at first she heard a gentle sound that she had not heard in a very long time, and then she realised that she was the author of that sound. She was, laughing softly? Her scarlet eyes sparkled with mirth and the laughter stopped. What? She nearly raised an eyebrow, she was enjoying herself too much and whenever she did that it did not end well. And yet, just this once, she looked into his amber eyes, she could enjoy the moment. “Yet who is to judge an act as needful and fitting as each person answers to their own sense of duty and loyalty. What would be honourable for one man or woman may not be so for another.” She smiled briefly before she added to his last words, “Yes, what is language but a means to an end? Be it wickedness as it stands by definition or what a person can interpret by context, by what their own minds interpret or the aims of the person to commit these, no one can know the troth of such ‘wicked’ act but the person who commits it. And who is to tell they would reveal such aim for some take a rather ‘fanatic’ turn for the worse.” Oh she was enjoying herself too much, careful Akahana…

She noticed he was about to ask her something when he stopped. As one of the men approached him in order to return his weapon to him. And for a moment she resented him interrupting their conversation. She wondered what was it he was about to ask her. She would never know now so she bet let it go for now. Albeit, she could not avoid noticing that Shian was also a bit shaken from the interruption. She noticed the other man returned, he certainly was faster than normal.

“Akahanna-sama, I am Yutai Shun, ruler of this land, and I would be glad to answer all of your questions to the best of my ability, if you feel you can trust us well enough to accompany us back to the palace. I give you my vow that none among my party wish to do you any harm, and indeed, myself, Chie-san and Ryou are duty bound to aid you, as your Seishi.”

She looked at each and every one of them in order to put names to their faces. She waved her hand when he addressed her so formally, she did not believe she needed such, “Please, Akahana, no need for any honourifics.” She did not mean to be rude but she had never been addressed so formal in her life and her profession dictated in her heart that she did not desire such attentions. She noted to his words.

She momentarily placed a hand on her forehead, no, she was not ill, but then why did it feel as if she could sense this man’s moods? It was not only Shun’s but also Kazune’s and Ryou’s emotions that she seemed to sense. At first he seemed charmed and she was not surprised, most people seemed to go through that when coming across her but…then… there was annoyance? Did she sense amusement? How was this even possible? What were all these… skills? Zuku never taught her how to do this and in the world she came from this was completely impossible… She looked blankly at the ground for a moment a bit confused. Maybe she was dreaming, although fighting those men had felt real. Nope, no dream here… Looking back at Shun she hoped he would be able to at least help her figure some things out, although, she disliked being moved form her comfort zone since she always looked out for herself when no one else did, depending on someone else for help was, well… alien for this young Miko. she was also proud and reserved, she would not admit she needed help finding her way around this place even if a hundred daggers were pointed at her. She was still unsure about these things she was sensing, were these abilities she never knew she had? This was the first time in her life she had felt so lost and confused, perhaps she had been both before this happened, for a very long time.

Akahana raised an eyebrow, a pleasure? And he bowed with such respect…No one had ever said that to her before, in fact, few even had time to utter a single syllable. Even so, most of them were curses, insults or really improper comments about her beauty. Her eyes softened for the briefest of moments. No one had ever smiled her way or done something nice to her so why was Shian? He had seen what she could do, why did he not do what the people did in her world and call the police and be done with her? And more importantly, she could tell he was a very arrogant person so why did he swallow his pride and smile politely? If the tables had been turned she was not sure she would have reacted as peacefully as he had. But what did that matter anyway? She would just take all the information she needed and probably learn a bit about this place and make her own living away from a pathetic Master who only used her and treated her like an object, not even a person. Her eyes regained their cold glare, she was more guarded now, what if he simply wanted to take her back to Zuku? What if he sent him to fetch her? Yet, he did not look at all like someone Zuku would use… No, she was at a loss of words.

They offered her information though they expected her to follow them silently. She had to decide whether to just run away and possibly confront them or accept their ‘hospitality’ and hope that they did mean her well. What was so important about her presence here that they had to talk in private? Were they trying to lure her into a trap? No, they was being honest and it seemed their honour was very important to them. It was strange, in her world honour was no longer as important as it once were. She sighed, it was either going with them and hopefully learning what she needed to know or it would be back to roaming this land with no clue on her whereabouts or the customs for any means to survive… “Fine…” She said and sighed a bit exasperated, she only hoped this new life would not be much worse than the one she had escaped. She watched the soldiers approach and for a moment she tensed, but she soon noticed that, true to their word, they had dealt with the men who attached her. Although, she gave them quite the beating…

“There are many more pleasant and secure places to have a discussion of this kind, as the Emperor suggests, Akahana-sama. Arrangements can be made for a place to rest, as well as any nourishment or comforts that you may require while your curiosities and confusions are clarified. Perhaps… With permission, I will go ahead of you to the palace, and speak with my Emperor’s staff, to ensure that such preparations are made for our guest.”

She eyed Shian once more as he spoke and she noticed two things that disappointed her slightly, one being that he had moved to address her formal despite her not wanting them to do so, especially when they seemed to be having an enjoyable conversation minutes ago. The other, that he would part from her company so soon and she was not quite sure why she felt that disappointing. Masking these feelings, however, she nodded and ensuring she had everything in place she decided to trust these people.

It was only once she began walking toward him that she realised… her body shook lightly as if she had just been forced into an ice cold shower… She would have to deal with him and his friends… she had no social skills whatsoever. In fact, this was as much as she could communicate initially. She might seem cold and distant but she never usually spoke much rather than do what she was ordered to. She would feel like a stray cat in the house of the hounds and not because the people would mean her any harm but because she was never in the company of lots of persons. And how would they react to her? She was an assassin, her hands were stained with blood…. Of course no one had to know but, wouldn’t they suspect something if she spoke so little? She hesitated for a brief moment but finally decided to close her hands into fists and be strong, maybe she could spare them five minutes, that was all they needed to teach her all about this… Kutou Empire, right? She was hopeless…

Shun was a perceptive man. True, his abilities assisted in this, but beyond any supernatural smile, he was just good at reading people - not as shrewd as Chisaka, or some of the others that he knew, but shrewd enough.That is perhaps why he felt a bit guilty for interrupting their conversation, although he had only been trying to help. He sensed that both had been enjoying the conversation, and Akahanna at minimum seemed a bit annoyed that he had stepped forward. "I apologize for cutting your conversation short. I simply thought you may be less inclined to trust us if we had continued to stand back without introduction. I only wanted to let you know we were not here to pose a threat to you." Likewise, she seemed unsure about going with them, which he could understand. “If you would rather we continue to the tavern, I am willing. I simply thought you may like the opportunity to rest and adjust to your new surroundings in private. I give my word that you would be granted the solitude you might desire until you was ready to tall, should we return to the palace.”

When Shian offered to return to the palace ahead of them, Ryou caught Shun’s eye and then spoke up. “I’ll go. I’ll get here in no time, and the room can be ready by the time she arrives. Do you have a preference for the room?”

Shun considered a moment. “Yes, the one closest to the training hall should suffice. Akahanna can use the hall whenever she likes, and it also has an exit leading to the gardens.” He gives the redhead a small smile. “It is near the guards' quarters, and also quite close to where my sisters stay. It should be a perfect match for your needs, if that sounds like it would suit you.”

With his instructions given, Ryou took off for the palace in a blur and Shun turned to start leading the way. “I will lead the way with Chie-san, if you will follow with Akahanna.” He gives them both a warm, genuine smile. Akahanna may not know him well enough yet, but it was doubtless that Shian would recognize that this is his way of apologizing and allowing them to continue their conversation for now in private.

Their interaction had shifted now, but for Shian, this kind of transition was given as little thought as breathing. Having been Shian’s bodyguard for some years, and one of his closest friends for most of their lives, he was accustomed to moving between formal and informal behavior at a moment’s notice, like a switch being flipped. He had mastered the understanding of when his more formal behavior was required - usually, when they were accompanied by someone other than just Ryou, though in this circumstance, it was because they were dealing with Shun executing his duties, albeit as Seishi, rather than Emperor. Nevertheless, as the general departed, his gaze went back to Akahana, and he sensed something… something that he couldn’t identify readily. Was she tense? … frustrated? Alas, this sense was merely the experience of a well trained soldier, not the perception of Shun’s power, so he couldn’t quite put his finger on it. Instead, he found himself answering her comment on honorifics. “I have little enough use for them, myself. None of them apply to me, and so I use them only when required to address my many superiors.” A nod, and a softer smile, and he offered his arm to her. This too was done with an air of easy habit that indicated he had gotten plenty of practice with it over the years, but the presentation of it and his entire manner was something that Shun would recognize as different than how he treated the noblewomen - this was more… friendly, not flirty. “As the Emperor finds his arm occupied at the moment, allow me to be your ill-fitted escort, Akahana. I will use your name happily, if you also promise to use mine.”

Akahana looked at each of them as she mentally repeated their names. Something told her she would be in this place for a while and might as well know her first connections. Even if in the end she parted ways with them, it was never a bad idea to ensure she knew someone. It was strange, she had never tried to get to know ‘someone’ in her past life. And yet, since slipping into this world she realised that, well, her life has been in constant change and she has not been in control of it. It was such an alien feeling and yet, it made her relax somewhat. It was not like the way of life she was used to and it relied her fro, the darkness. It was comforting even. It was also interesting how, these persons who seemed to be so different got together, she could not deny she was quite interested to learn about their lies and the reason they walked under the same banner. For the first time she had someone to talk to and no one was there to prevent her fro satiating her curiosity. She did not feel Zuku nearby and that made her sigh in relief hoping that she never sees him again. She then turned to look at Shun, he seemed to be assessing her and the current situation, she could sense impassion and intrigue and yet those were not her feelings. Then whose were those? Could she sense his feelings? And it seemed they wanted to talk to her about something. What was it she needed to know? Did they know why she was here? Good, then that would make things much easier for her because at this moment in time she was completely lost. She could instinctively tell that neither of them would wish to harm her, of course, she had a sixth sense, one of the few good things about the life she led, she supposed.

Mind you she was still unsure as to why they would be so glad to have found her. And that made her wonder again about the type of role they expected her to fulfil in this kingdom. Surely no one would blame her for blinking and looking at everything in disbelief, these kinds of places she had only seen in her mind by reading books or at the cinema whenever she watched a historic movie, and yet, here she was and it was no dream because if it were Zuku would have woken her up, that man never allowed her a moment of rest. He was always testing her, always keeping her on edge, the less human she was the better, he always told her that. But her heart loved to be human…

Her eyes met with the Emperor’s and she noticed he had made up his mind about something as he spoke. Of course she was not used to dealing with formal occasions and thus she feared she might accidentally offend someone in this group. That was the reason her body tensed slightly, her people skills were… well… lacking and this would not be because she did not wish to speak with them and get to know them. The list of things she despised about Zuku was ground by the second.

“I apologize for cutting your conversation short. I simply thought you may be less inclined to trust us if we had continued to stand back without introduction. I only wanted to let you know we were not here to pose a threat to you.”

Akahana trusted her skills to avoid having someone detect what she was thinking or feeling so how could this man have picked up on her feelings when being interrupted? It was as if she had been disarmed and it made her feel uncomfortable but also guilty. She did not want them thinking she did not appreciate the fact that they were being so hospitable toward her and that also led to her feeling shame or embarrassment. Feeling her cheeks warm and unsure as to why she looked away and wished she could hide somewhere. Her mind was filing so many strange emotions that it was going into overdrive and she was a bit unable to have an immediate reaction or response to that. She really had no skills especially in front of an Emperor, hopefully she would not anger and have them sentence her to death. Although, they did not seem like those kind of persons form them movies. Still looking down she said, “Oh… I… we…” Her eyes finally met his and she tried to say something coherent to excuse herself, “I appreciate the introduction and your help… I just…” She ran a hand through her hair taking a deep breath, “I’m still rather uneasy at begin in a world I do not recognise.”

Surely that would be enough to give him a small glimpse of what she was experiencing and then added bashfully, although she spoke so low probably only someone standing very close to her would hear her, “I also… I’m not sure how to conduce myself before an Emperor…” Well the rabbit was out of the hat there and she certainly hoped they would not mind and if needed give her the relevant instructions on how to behave. Then again, Shian was a soldier who served the Emperor surely he could give her a few tips on the matter, she did not like asking for aid, as she believed she needed none but, under these circumstances she would feel better admitting this to another warrior like her than telling the kind Emperor she needed help. It would be too much for her especially with everything that had happened up till now. The last thing she wanted was for Shun to think her a brute.

”If you would rather we continue to the tavern, I am willing. I simply thought you may like the opportunity to rest and adjust to your new surroundings in private. I give my word that you would be granted the solitude you might desire until you was ready to tall, should we return to the palace.”

She felt her cheeks warm once more at her words, she really needed to learn decorum because at this very moment his words made her feel like a petulant child. If she could still remember what being a child had been, she lots everything at the age of five and it made her wince. But she decided she would give them the benefit of the doubt just this once and she nodded to his words, “I believe you, if you meant me harm you would have already acted upon such.” It made sense, there were many more of them and the soldiers that came to collect the thugs, if they meant her any harm they could have attacked her, not that she would not put up a fight as she always did. But this once she would follow her hunch, “Thank you.” She did not want to say anything else lest she makes things worse, she had to be a bit more careful with what she says, after all she is in the presence of an Emperor and the last thing she wanted was to come across as someone rude, even though she knew not about etiquette and politeness. She did not feel human at all and at times like these she longed to be another member of this group of friends and feel like them, laugh like them and live like them.

“I’ll go. I’ll get here in no time, and the room can be ready by the time she arrives. Do you have a preference for the room?”

She made a mental note to ask You about his supernatural speed one they were at the Palace, in fact she would even question them all about their powers, she seemed to ‘sense’ some of them and their feelings and abilities, but the later was more like, well, she swallowed, she still remembered that strange feeling she experienced when You left running the first time. She had felt as if suddenly she move much quicker, maybe coming to this world had made her go crazy. But, was it crazy to believe she shared a strange kind of bond with these people she had called her ‘Seishi’?

“Yes, the one closest to the training hall should suffice. Akahanna can use the hall whenever she likes, and it also has an exit leading to the gardens… t is near the guards' quarters, and also quite close to where my sisters stay. It should be a perfect match for your needs, if that sounds like it would suit you.”

Akahana eyed Emperor Shun for a moment, how could he tell all that upon their first meeting? Was that one of his abilities? She tried to examine him for a moment, that was in a way kind of sneaky of him but she decided he was truly trying to make her feel at home and she could not stop herself from smirking for a moment, there seemed to be more to these people than meet the eye. She nodded and said, “I am much obliged.” She wondered what the Princesses were like, if they were anything like this Emperor she would say to say they were the exception to most noble families she had her read about in the annals of history.

“I have little enough use for them, myself. None of them apply to me, and so I use them only when required to address my many superiors.”

Her eyes moved back to Shian as he spoke, yes, her instincts have been correct he is well versed on etiquette and politeness, perhaps she could learn a thing or two from him. And yet, her pride did not allow her to comment on the matter, but rather she nodded at his words, "It makes perfect sense.” It was good to know they were on the same page and, to be honest, she was grateful that she had landed in a kingdom where the Emperor and his people did not expect her to observe the most rigorous etiquette, otherwise she was not sure what she would have done. She was also a bit fearful that they would take her for an ignorant person upon her lack of knowledge on the subject at first, but now, she felt her body relax, she was certain now that if anything they would always tell her what she needed to know or do if unsure.

“As the Emperor finds his arm occupied at the moment, allow me to be your ill-fitted escort, Akahana. I will use your name happily, if you also promise to use mine.”

She watched him offer her his arm to hold and was quite taken aback by such chivalrous act. She had only read of this in historic books or watched it on movies but it was an old custom that was dying out in her time and age. So when she, the deadly assassin, found herself in a situation similar to that of the main character she was not sure how to react. She felt her cheeks redden, for some reason, and her eyes met his. There was an earnest feeling of enjoyment in his eyes and his smile was genuine as well. She was not sure why her heartbeat increased but she decided to ignore it and slowly and rather shiny she placed her hand on the offered arm and said with a gentle smile of her own, “Thank you, Shian.” She was even more surprised that she had managed to smile, it was not something she did, ever. And she was a bit confused, why was she experiencing this overwhelming feeling of comfort? It was as if she enjoyed the company she was in, and she could not deny it and that thought nearly made her gasp. Her hand rested on his arm gently and she felt a sense of security envelop her, she knew this man was strong and reliable but he was also cunning and witty. She looked into his eyes for a moment before she decided to look at the path ahead in order to distract her mind form such diverting thoughts, “No man with your wit and tongue should be considered ill-fitted to escort a lady. Least of all one with my repartee and likewise bold tongue.” She smirked, mirth decorating her eyes before she eyed him for a moment in order to grasp his reaction to her attempt at teasing. Truth be told, she was emboldened by the friendliness in the group, perhaps they would not mind learning more about this playful side of her. She wondered what Shian would think thus.

They walked down the street silently and she looked around as they walked on, she truly could not believe she was in what seemed to be an ancient kingdom. Had she finally lost her marbles? Probably all those fantasy and historic books she had been reading had caused in her the same illness Don Quixote of La Mancha suffered form when he challenged windmills taking them for giants and monsters to be defeated? She felt a bit silly considering this possibility but why else would she be walking with a person who looked like those tv anime series she had often watched? As her eyes turned to look at him once more she concentrated on the road ahead, if she tried to explain her shock she wondered if Shian or anyone in the group would understand. She did not remember hitting her head while reading but, was there any possibility that had happened? She could still remember the name of the book, it was something about four gods based in Chinese mythology or something. But then again, it was also probably slightly strange for them to receive the visit of someone like her.

Kazune watched as Shun, Ryou, and Shian did their best to make Akahana feel settled. She would have spoken up , but she was so startled, and... She was feeling Akahana's emotions at being startled by all this as well. There was fear, confusion, hesitation, discovery, just so much! There was something else that she couldn't put her finger on as well. Shian said something strange about women, like he always did, Shun graciously offered to take her to the palace, like he always, did, and Ryou rushed off. She almost felt useless, even though she was the only other woman there with her. But, in the presence of this woman who hid her feelings and felled villainous men, and would now serve as their miko...she found herself speechless.

She turned to the miko, and said, "Akahana-sa--- um..." She cut herself off when she remembered that she didn't want them to use honorifics. But she used "san" for everyone, almost. This would be hard... She cleared her throat and smiled and the woman, unable to bring herself to say her name without it for the moment. "My seishi name is Kazune. My given name at birth is Chie, which is what Shun-san calls me. You uh...you can call me either of them, I don't mind." She said the last of it in a rush, still feeling the amazement of the situation and unable to push away the emotions of the other woman. She felt her face reddening. "I'm so happy to meet you," she said in a tiny voice.

Shun only barely heard Akahanna make a soft comment about not knowing how to address him. It was his inclination to tell her that he was not a particularly formal man when he didn’t have to be, and the only reason Kazune used an honorific was because it made her feel more comfortable. He thought to speak up for a moment, but then he noticed the delicate pink blush on her cheeks, and decided not to embarrass her further. Instead, he would walk with Kazune, and let Shian escort the Miko.

Speaking of… There was quite a lot going on, and Kazune had to be affected by the rush of emotions they were all feeling - not least of all, the Miko. Thinking carefully, he gave Shian a quick glance, and hoped his desire to put a bit of space between the two pairs would be clear enough. After walking for a few moments, he spoke quietly to Kazune. “Did you enjoy your walk, Chie-san?” He considered how best to ask his next question, and finally decided straightforward would be best. He trusted she would understand his meaning. "Are you feeling well? I know there’s a lot of emotion and activity going on, and you can be a bit sensitive to it…"

As she took his arm and they began moving, he resolved himself to give her a little heads up on the front of the formal behavior that would be expected of her, since she had indicated that she wasn’t quite sure how to behave before an Emperor. Of course, the moment that anyone realized she was the Miko, that dynamic was likely to change again… but, one lesson at a time, for a person who had come from a whole different place and time, than this one. Indeed, Shun’s decision to drop back away from them as they walked, along with his companion, created the perfect opportunity for him to give her the kind of advice that she was clearly in search of, without it potentially embarrassing her to receive such counsel in front of the Emperor himself. Her tease made him chuckle though, a warm sound deep in his chest that spoke of a mild surprise, and a deeper enjoyment. “It is quite often my tongue that the women in my company seem to find exception with… I have been called too witty on several occasions, and ‘bordering on crass’.” He shook his head mildly. “In my defense, on all but one occasion, it was because my commentary was misunderstood…”



As they moved through the streets of Kutou, Shian walked them with the casual ease of a native, quietly acknowledging waves and soft greetings from people here and there as he moved through a town that was preparing to slow down for the evening. A wizened older man moved slowly through the more well traveled thoroughfares, carefully lighting strategically-placed oil lamps that cast pools of warm light around dim shops and homes, as the sun began to set in truth, and businesses shuttered their windows for the night. It was after exchanging a few words with a man a bit younger than himself - and jokingly scolding the fellow’s toddling sister, who clung to his pants and begged for a story before her mother would force her to go to bed - that they moved away into quieter streets, and he decided now was the time to venture the subject he had in mind. “You needn’t worry quite so much as you are about how to address the Emperor properly. It’s really quite simple - Emperor Shun will do, or “my Emperor” if you are feeling particularly loyal at the time. And as you are currently in trousers, a bow will suffice. Otherwise, address him as you might your grandfather - respectfully, but without over-formality.” A little smile took his features, then. “Of course, when it is just the group of us, here… we are a bit less inclined toward standing on official, important ceremony.” A chuckle. “Shun is a young man, as much as he is Emperor - he has the impulses and behaviors of one, when his duty permits him to. With those he is close to, he prefers to be treated as such, so long as there are no important people to look on, and thus judge his capabilities as Emperor. I… do not believe that I am wrong in stating that you are likely to fall into this second group, along with myself, Ryou, Kazune, Chisaka, who is back at the palace, and a few select others.”

“Akahana-sa— um… My seishi name is Kazune. My given name at birth is Chie, which is what Shun-san calls me. You uh...you can call me either of them, I don't mind… I’m so happy to meet you,”

Akahana looked at the woman as she addressed her for a moment. She could tell she was one of her Seishi just as she had sensed this from Shun and Ryou. She seemed a bit uneasy and what she could sense from here were many emotions all over the place. She seemed shy but Akahana truly wondered if it had troubled her to find her as she seemed a bit nervous. Nevertheless she could tell she was a gentle soul and so she nodded to her words. She was not sure anyone would be pleased to meet an assassin like Akahana but she nodded her head and replied, “Likewise, Chie.” She had trusted her with the short name the Emperor used for her and she would gladly use it. She smiled softly at her, for a brief moment, maybe they would become good friends.

As Shun and Chie walked ahead of them her attention shifted back to Shian as he began to lead her as well. She had never been led in such a way and she found it both comforting and enjoyable, strange how such a small gesture could evoke such a reaction from her. She turned to look at him for a moment as she head him chuckle, she was not sure why but she thought it suited him to laugh for it showed enjoyment.

“It is quite often my tongue that the women in my company seem to find exception with… I have been called too witty on several occasions, and ‘bordering on crass’… In my defense, on all but one occasion, it was because my commentary was misunderstood…”

She heard his words and smirked, she found she agreed on him being quite outspoken but that was the reason she found him agreeable. Admitting this would make her feel greatly embarrassed she looked back at the town and noticed how the people went about their lives and she found a deep longing. She would have rather lived a more… ordinary life. “Perhaps the actual situation is being misinterpreted? Rumour has it that a lot of people in the nobility have the tools to become wide and cunning and yet most do not use them.” She smirked and explained her meaning with mirth in her eyes, “Perhaps the ladies you have spoken to ere had the title but not the wit. And their level of thought stood below your own resulting in their lack of understanding.” She laughed softly, when it come to thought and communication, Akahana had seen it several times, some people did not make the most of their situation and therefore lacked the mind to understand some situations. She knew this for she had seen how people interacted in their daily lives back in her world and how the decaying nobility caused nothing but scandals

She was curious as to what that one occasion could he mentioned have been. For he seemed to think that, for the most part, women only felt offended at his words. Akahana, on the contrary enjoyed their playful conversations and felt herself opening up to this man. What a strange feeling that was for some used to the silence. Her eyes moved back to his own as she heard him talk once more and she was grateful it regarded the intricacies of palace formalities.

“You needn’t worry quite so much as you are about how to address the Emperor properly. It’s really quite simple - Emperor Shun will do, or “my Emperor” if you are feeling particularly loyal at the time. And as you are currently in trousers, a bow will suffice. Otherwise, address him as you might your grandfather - respectfully, but without over-formality.”

Akahana was expecting Shian to mention strict cannons and water might help her if she was to stay at the Palace so, no one would be expecting her to be ready for that random piece of information he inserted as he spoke. She imagined addressing Emperor Shun as an old and sweet man and she could not help but to laugh softly. It was not a long and disrespectful laugh but rather a playful one. She felt her heart warmth at their interactions and then she realised he would probably find is disheartening to hear she had never met her grandparents. Instead she added fuel to the fire and said with a soft grin, “Pray tell, Shian, how do ‘you’ address the Emperor as if you spoke with your grandfather?” The fun thing abut that is it would render her the ability to tease the Emperor in a similar way to Shian. She was a bit surprised at such daring words, but she felt as if she could behave more like herself in their company and thought such honesty being anything but disrespectful.

“Of course, when it is just the group of us, here… we are a bit less inclined toward standing on official, important ceremony… Shun is a young man, as much as he is Emperor - he has the impulses and behaviors of one, when his duty permits him to. With those he is close to, he prefers to be treated as such, so long as there are no important people to look on, and thus judge his capabilities as Emperor. I… do not believe that I am wrong in stating that you are likely to fall into this second group, along with myself, Ryou, Kazune, Chisaka, who is back at the palace, and a few select others.”

Akahana felt joy and comfort in his words. Would she truly be included among the people closest to the Emperor? Would she acquire the friends in this world she had never had back in Tokyo? She confused she was looking forward to finding out and, just this once, she would lower her defences and allow this people into her fortress. The very fortress that kept everyone else at bay in her world. She chuckled and said, “I am truly honoured to be classed among those persons the Emperor trusts enough to find no fault in teasing and mirth. For I’m afraid, thanks to your illustrious words…” having teased Shian she smirked, “I have had a taste of such playfulness and I’m afraid once unleashed it can no longer be contained.”

Even though she only just met this people, she knew thee and then, as the sun set in the west and the first sign of stars graced her eyes, that she would do anything to ensure their safety and the well-being of their kingdom, even sacrifice her own life.