After Akahana responded to her, their conversations seemed to divide into two pairs. Maybe that was for the best. She could focus a little more on what was in her own mind. She still felt...well, her mother would call it "aflutter." Excited, and not sure what to do. She knew that not all of it was her, though. She worked on steadying her breathing when Shun spoke to her in a gentle voice.

“Did you enjoy your walk, Chie-san? 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…"

Her nerves settled, but somehow focused on Shun when he spoke. They had been doing that lately, and she didn't know why. He was so kind, why would she be nervous around him? "Yes, I did, Shun-san," she said with a bright smile. She realized she was still holding the outer layer of her skirts as a makeshift basket for the flowers she had found. "I found some flowers that I thought my mother could use in a project she's working on." She felt the nerves that had popped up die down when she thought of this other question. He was always so thoughtful. "I'm...Yes, I'm fine now that I can speak with just you, thank you. I normally have a good handle on my powers, but this was a bit of a shock." She looked up at him and smiled sheepishly. She knew that she shouldn't feel embarrassed about the situation with him, but those nerves she felt were coming back.

Shun smiled as they spoke. He always enjoyed any chance to talk privately with Kazune. He glanced down when she indicated the flowers she’d found, just able to see them in the fading light. “I see. Those are quite lovely. I’m sure your mother will do something truly magical with them…”

"I'm...Yes, I'm fine now that I can speak with just you, thank you. I normally have a good handle on my powers, but this was a bit of a shock."

Shun placed his hand over hers, giving it a gentle, reassuring squeeze. "Yes, I quite understand. I don't think any of us set out this evening with the slightest idea we would find our Miko outside a tavern." It made him smile to know he was able to help her, even if it was only by giving her a moment to compose herself. "I hope you know, Chie-san, I am always willing to make time to speak with you like this. You need never hesitate, if you think I can assist you. It is truly my pleasure."

Another chuckle lit both voice and eyes, which warmed in the fading light of evening, and tiny lines appeared across his forehead, again. “I wouldn’t say so to one of their faces… but I expect that your estimation of them is correct. Though perhaps it could also be stated that many of them do not expect a guard to be very well educated. It’s not… overly common.” He shrugged a little as they walked on. “That is one of the benefits that my association with the Emperor has provided me. And they usually outweigh the drawbacks.” That’s a more open tease, directed at Shun, and though he cannot hear them at the moment, it is something that Shian would have said to his face, just as quickly… so long as no one of significance was around. As much as any of his behavior up to now, this proved that he was enjoying their conversation as well, and viewing her as someone he could talk more openly with. When left to his own devices, with only the Emperor and his closest companions present, Shian was quite known for a quick wit and a rarely-blunted tongue, as all of those who knew him best knew that he was not one to comment hurtfully, but rather to tease those he cared for. In fact, the only one more notorious was Chisaka, who had both the education and boldness that he himself possessed, but also a woman’s art of delivering insults in such a way that they sounded like compliments.

Her comment in turn made him laugh wholeheartedly, a belly-deep sound that shook chest and shoulders for a few moments, and there was still mirth in his words when he recovered enough to speak clearly. “Madam, you suggest that I am not entirely sincere in my every word and deed. A wound to the heart, that is.” Another laugh. “I am always at my most sincere, when I am joking.” That, of course, was a commentary on his personality, rather than his words, for the sincerest form of his personality could be seen best, when he was busy joking with his friends. “And tell me, do you also consider yourself possessed of the capriciousness of humor?”

Akahana found Shian’s laughter quite contagious and could not stop herself from joining in as they walked on. For the most part, albeit admiring the scenery and watching the people go about their everyday lives, right now she was focusing solely on the man escorting her and getting to know him through the art of wit and mirth. Both were tings Akahana found she truly enjoyed but had never been able to partake in them, for she led a different life in Tokyo and that resulted in the possibility of her conversing with anyone being little to none. Thus, no one could blame her for engaging fully into this conversation and accepting that, like Shian, she was enjoying this very much. To be fair, having no one to talk to back in Tokyo only came to surprise her now for she had not expected to be rather bold in her humour but it seemed to fit Shian. And for that she was glad, they said it was not easy finding someone who connected with you at such level. Well, it seems they connected from the very beginning and it was such a lucky and welcome thing. It made Akahana think that perhaps someone took pity other when they sent her to this world and she would indeed make the most of it not only with words but with actions. If they needed her help fighting an unknown foe or water it was she came here to do, she would gladly oblige and if she liked this place enough, which she suspected she would, she would ask to stay.

No one would blame her for wanting to leave her old life behind. She realised now that for a while now: she had felt tired of that life. She took no pleasure in killing and even though she was paid well and led a comfortable life compared to her childhood, well, what was the value in that if she could not lead a normal life and share it with anyone? Besides, her master often chose the innocent people as her marks and her eye always twitched at that, it was as if he just wished to torture for her as long as she lived. She looked back at Shian, it was best not to dwell in the past but now, she would focus on tis kingdom and hope that she won’t have to go back to Tokyo. Hope she could use his skills in a more honourable way than to kill innocents.

“I wouldn’t say so to one of their faces… but I expect that your estimation of them is correct. Though perhaps it could also be stated that many of them do not expect a guard to be very well educated. It’s not… overly common.”

Her eyes lit with his words and she smirked, was he admiring her new on these persons, although she had yet to meet them in person, were accurate? Then again maybe she could have been a detective, she laughed some more. Unfortunately, beggars can be choosers. Had she had any other family, perhaps Akahana would have been different, and yet that led her to wonder if she would have found the book to be transported here and come across these people. Life was always about experiencing hardships to find happiness, she guessed. “Oh but it would be such amusement, if indeed their level of ‘wit’ is not what it should be given their status and upbringing, should it not be safe to consider the fact that informing them of such weakness would be a greater good for them on the long run? Alas, I fear their level of understanding might result in them not even understanding your words.” To his last words she smiled, “I believe it a good thing that you got to experience such upbringing, otherwise who could I talk to now that could pose a better challenge?” She winked at him to add up to her playful words and looked up at the sky as it slowly began to darken and the first starts were already sparkling. It was amazing to be able to see the stars so bright here.

Back in Tokyo there was too much light at night, it made stargazing difficult. Maybe she could ask Shian if he knew anything about astronomy, she would love to do some stargazing and learn about the names of the stars in this world. She had to make the best of every situation and this as one of them. She wondered if there was an observatory in the palace, surely there were scholars as Shun seemed to be a very intelligent Emperor. “Do you have stargazing facilities at the Palace? Just out of curiosity.” She turned back to smile at Shian.

“That is one of the benefits that my association with the Emperor has provided me. And they usually outweigh the drawbacks.”

Akahana smirked at that and could clearly picture Shian openly teasing the Emperor on the matter. To think they would consider her part of their inner circle and, as such, allow her room to creatively tease the Emperor. It was quite an exciting challenge to get to know them and allow her playful nature explore the possibilities of mirth, banter and pastime with good company. Yes, he could see herself enjoying this new life very much. She eyed Shian curiously and then said, “Then I shall give this a thorough consideration.” Of course she would join in on the teasing games but she would need be disrespectful. What kind of ungrateful person would she be if she ruined her chances at living an enjoyable life and make friends in these lands? She smiled, she had heard so many stories of people being close enough to give each other names and nicknames, something she had never considered doing herself. And now, maybe there was a possibility. How strange, she had not been in this world for long and yet, she was beginning to feel… human.

“Madam, you suggest that I am not entirely sincere in my every word and deed. A wound to the heart, that is.”

Akahana was surprised when hearing herself laugh openly in response to Shian’s words and laughter. She had seen people laugh in movies and everyday folk, but to be the reason someone laughed with all their hearts and in turn that laughter spread to the depths of your soul, well, that certainly was something special and she treasured the occasion. She allowed herself some time to enjoy both their laughter and playfulness before Shian spoke again. His words only made her laugh even more, her shoulders shot lightly and she allowed it. She would die herself this one chance to actually live a life, to be the opposite of a tool of destruction. Feeling alive was something precious and Akahana was not about to let it all escape her fingers. She looked at him with a playful light in her eyes, “And yet those wounds are the fastest to heal as they not? For it is an open challenge to prove me wrong.” She laughed some more.

“I am always at my most sincere, when I am joking… And tell me, do you also consider yourself possessed of the capriciousness of humor?”

Akahana smirked with mirth in her eyes, “Ah humour, that is themes trustworthy kind of sincerity noble knight.” She grinned for a moment as she added to his last comment, “I’m afraid I will have to pledge guilty on this occasion. Simply because I believe that humour is the best way to poke through often undisclosed but crucial topics of everyday reality. And what better way to expose contradictions and biased decisions within social structures than with a hint of comedy?” She turned to look at him for a moment, Shian was truly an interesting man for he evoked so many things in her, and a fluid conversation she had never had before not even in the form of monologues.

There had been a time in Kazune's life when she had been known as a ghost in the forest. She and her mother had been outcasts, and if she had told herself just a short time go that she'd be friends with the emperor...she wouldn't have believed herself. The hadn't been unhappy, but incredibly isolated. To have friends, and in such high places, sometimes it was still unbelievable. But, speaking to Shun, she hardly looked at him as the emperor anymore. He was her friend, and her brother in arms.

When he took her hand, her face turned red. She felt even more nervous for a moment, but...at his words, her nerves settled. They settled into a warm feeling in her heart. It was unfamiliar, but reassuring and true. She wasn't sure what to make of it, but it felt right. "Thank you, Shun-san," she said with a smile, turning to look up at him. "I'll do my best to do the same for me, if you need it."

Shun smiled back at Kazune. He found his thoughts turning more introspective as they walked, though he could hear laughter from both Shian and Akahanna, and thought to himself that Ryou would regret missing the chance to tease their friend.

That was just a passing thought in his mind, however. Mostly, he found himself thinking back to when he and Shian had gone to find Kazune and her mother, and invited them to come stay at the palace. True, he had sought her out because she was a Seishi, and Shun hoped to gather all he could before the Miko - Akahanna - arrived.He had managed to gather four, which he supposed was no small feat…

But he also knew that what Kazune and her mother had dealt with wasn’t right, and he liked to think he would’ve invited them to live at the palace even if she were not one of his fellow Seishi. That led him to another thought, and he wondered for a moment if he could voice it. “Chie-san…I do hope that you have been happy, since coming to the capital. And…” He hesitated for a moment, thinking. “I also hope you know that the arrival of the Miko changes nothing. You are welcome to stay for as long after our duties are done are done as you see fit…and I do hope that will be a long while, yet.”” He cleared his throat. He wasn’t sure why talking over such matters with the pale young woman always made him feel…nervous? It was ridiculous, honestly!He gave speeches and discussed any manner of topics with any imaginable collection of people, and never felt an ounce of nerves. Why should Chie be any different?

~~~

Ryou finished making arrangements for Ahakanna’s room, and made sure she would have a maid at the ready, should she need anything. He considered for a moment going to find Hisoka, and updating her on what had happened, but she had agreed to watch Kaoru for him tonight so he could go out with Shian and Shun, and he didn’t want to disturb his little girl who had probably only just gotten to sleep.

He also considered heading back to meet the others, so he would be on hand if there was any trouble…but he knew Shun and Shian would be more than enough to keep the two women safe… Assuming Akahanna didn’t beat up any foolish attackers before the men had a chance to respond.

That left him with only one course of action, and he chuckled when he realized. There was one person who absolutely had to be notified immediately that the Miko had arrived, but he knew Shun would forbid the others from disturbing Chisaka, as “She needed her rest”. Making his way down familiar halls, he came to a stop outside the private rooms of his fellow Seishi. Raising his hand to knock, he got a flash of inspiration, and gave three firm knocks followed by two softer ones - Shun’s signature knock, when he came to see how she was feeling and to ensure she’d taken her medicine. He thought it may be fun to see her reaction, as she expected the Emperor to be out for the evening…

The usually sharp eyes were positively glittering, now. "Indeed, it is often my efforts to point out to them their lack of adequate wit that seems to prompt the greatest annoyance. I think that they suspect they are being insulted, but do not understand my words enough to be certain, so they take offense at the proof of my comments." They moved on from that subject as they walked though, and he nodded to her question. "We do. The friend I mentioned, Chisaka? She is quite fascinated with the celestial bodies. When she is not occupied with her duties, she quite often belabors the librarian for new books on stars. She has a fairly extensive setup, just off her private quarters. I am sure, for a fellow enthusiast, she could be convinced to share her knowledge and equipment.”

He found her laughter infectious though, soon chuckling himself. "You may have something, at that. Growing to manhood as I have alongside both Emperor and General, I have quite thick skin… despite all their attempts to get beneath it. I suppose it could also be said that my wit has been… refined, by their frequent company." Another little smile, this one meant specifically for her. "It will be good to match tongues with another who does not yet know much of my material. Though I do still manage to surprise them now and then.”

*****

Ryou's knock is answered, after a moment, by Otome, Chisaka's personal maid. Before she could speak to greet or announce him however, a voice sounded from further into the room, with the irritation he probably expected. "Shun Yutai, it hardly is presentable for a man of your stature to be accosting the doors of young women at this hour of night. Even in your own palace, it is hardly seemly.” Propped against a specially-designed couch with one elevated end, specifically meant to support her half upright, Chisaka did not look up from the papers in her hand, which she was reading by the light of the fire. She was already prepared for bed, due to the hour, but her maid had ensured that a blanket was thrown over most of her, as a ward against the slight chill of the evening as it faded to true night. “You are all but blood brother to me, but if you keep intruding at this sort of hour, people are bound to-” She looked up then, and in an instant she realized what Ryou had done, and scowled. “It hardly befits a General of His Highness’ army either, Ryouku Isogaishi.” Another frown. “Aside from my own irritation, what purpose brings you to me, at this hour?”

Akahana was enjoying herself as much as Shian was, or so she could see by the way his eyes sparkled and she felt light-headed, the lowering of the temperature as night befell them did not affect her at all for the warmth of their witty conversation and mirth kept her warm and her heart felt just as warm, albeit she was not sure why as she had never experienced this before, as she looked around she looked at the people walking by her side and it made her smile briefly. It was a strange sensation, she was part of something, something greater than herself and these people had welcomed her with one arms. They had not blackmailed her into following her nor did they pose a threat. It was refreshing and it made her feel truly comfortable. She had never known such comfort. She turned to look at the man escorting her, his eyes glistening like the stars in the firmament. She found herself smiling in kind, her own scarlet eyes lit as if aflame but it was not a threatening kind of fire, it was warmer and it did not burn. She realised as they walked on that darkness ensued as the day moved along that her senses sharpened and for the first time in her life this darkness was comforting, it was mystifying and beautiful and it charmed the heart and soul to such extent that she would have been happy just by standing there all night watching the day turn into night, looking at the astral bodies moving about and feeling the peace of not having to look over her shoulder constantly or awaiting orders from Zuku. She was not sure how she came to feel this full when in Tokyo she had become a shell of the person she could have been. Could this chance extend as far as her past? Was this a change to erase and build anew?

She saw Shian was nearly in tears with how much they were laughing and Akahana felt her stomach ache a bit due to how much she had been enjoying their conversation. It was astounding, she had spent twenty-odd years living like a shadow that delivered death to whoever her blade encountered, she had not socialised and had not made many friends apart from Gina and that had been a chance meeting. She had no experience at all and yet she had loved books, those had been her friends back then. So it was not surprising that she could scarcely believe this was truly happening. Her first contact with other living beings and they seemed to take to her already and from the moment they met Shian and Akahana seemed to be kindred spirits in mind. If anyone asked her if she would fight all the enemies of Kutou but she would get to stay in this world, she would not think twice and would devote her eery action to this Kingdom, Zuku be damned, she would not be going back. She would renounce the banner of an assassin in order to take up the banner of Kutou, she would no longer take lives but save them. She would dedicate her life to the things that truly mattered, that were worth it. She felt her cheeks redden slightly, people would probably think her silly for having such thoughts, but she was like a prisoner that had never seen the light of day until one day he is rescued and closed his eyes at the slender of the sun, and feel the warmth of the astral body and discovers the colours of the world around him. This joy she shared, and this sense of freedom had no equal.

"Indeed, it is often my efforts to point out to them their lack of adequate wit that seems to prompt the greatest annoyance. I think that they suspect they are being insulted, but do not understand my words enough to be certain, so they take offense at the proof of my comments.”

Akahana heard him respond to her previous words and that brought her back from her own musings, it was a most welcome distraction, though, for she began laughing once more and her shoulders shook with mirth as she pictured Shian telling a noble lady of sorts that she had little to no wit, experience the wrath of their anger and realise that they did not understand what he was talking about. “I confess your words have inspired a rather comical image that as much s I pray it won’t lead me be.” She eyed him curiously and then said, “It reminds me of a metaphor I read in a book, of a man who kept telling a lady that the rim of her dress was burning because she was standing too close to the fire but she would hear nothing of it. Until one moment where she tried to sit down and then screeched looking at the fire on the folds of her skirts. The man immediately acted and tossed her a bucket of cold water.” She laughed at the comity of such a situation and then concluded raising her hand as they would in a Shakespearean play and ended with the morale of the story, “Sometimes stubbornness is utter blindness to one’s own reality.” She attempted a bit of a lower town when speaking last for comical effect.

“We do. The friend I mentioned, Chisaka? She is quite fascinated with the celestial bodies. When she is not occupied with her duties, she quite often belabors the librarian for new books on stars. She has a fairly extensive setup, just off her private quarters. I am sure, for a fellow enthusiast, she could be convinced to share her knowledge and equipment.”

Akahana’s eyes lit up at the mention of Chisaka and her vast knowledge in astronomy. She wold certainly want to meet her, not only because she was her Seishi but also because she would like a friend she could talk to about her own hobbies although she was nowhere near as knowledgeable on the matter as Chisaka was, she still had a deep fondness for the stars and beyond. And if she could teach her to use a telescope then she would be in her debt. She would certainly share as much knowledge form her own world as Chisaka wished to learn. “I would greatly appreciate being able to partake in such body with someone more knowledgeable and who possesses the tools to partake in its splendour.” She nearly blushed, she probably looked silly. She had been a numb person, although she always found her hobbies fascinating and put as much effort as possible in enjoying herself as much as she could given the dark life she led. But now, she was absolutely glowing, her eyes showed the intrigue, joy and comfort she felt and the smile she now had, it was pure and unrestrained.

“You may have something, at that. Growing to manhood as I have alongside both Emperor and General, I have quite thick skin… despite all their attempts to get beneath it. I suppose it could also be said that my wit has been… refined, by their frequent company.”

Akahana laughed alongside him, it had become a duet of joy and mirth where one would laugh and the other would follow. A contest of wit to see who would be the last one still standing after laughing out loud for so long and she gladly engaged in such activities. It made her feel alive and she was glad that she had stopped on her way to a job to find this book, it had drawn her to its location and now she did not mind that she had lost that job and hoped Zuku would need find her again. But that was probably wishful thinking, he always found a way. Perhaps she could discuss this once she felt she could entrust them with her past and they could plan the means to finally overcome the man and for Akahana to be free once and for all. She laughs at his words once more, “All these years and they have truly been unable to get under your skin? Either that would be partially true, for the men know you as they grew up alongside you, or they have not tried hard enough.” She playfully winked at him and turned to look at the road they followed. She wondered what kind of food and drinks they offered in this kingdom, she wondered what the delicacies were. She could hardly wait to try everything.

“It will be good to match tongues with another who does not yet know much of my material. Though I do still manage to surprise them now and then.”

Akahana laughed, “Alas, I assumed your materials to be as fast as the universe in which we are such a minuscule species.” She chuckled, “I would not be surprised you have only granted Shun-san and Rouy-san half the benefits to your repertoire but I confess I am more than happy to explore its intricacies if you deem me deserving of your graces.” She gave a playful and humorous bow.

As Kazune walked in peace with Shun, feeling like she could just be Chie again, holding her friend's hand, he offered her more reassurances. Ever since she had come to the palace, she had made friends, and was surprised when her closest friend had turned out to be the emperor. It was always easy to speak with him, even when....“Chie-san…I do hope that you have been happy, since coming to the capital. And…I also hope you know that the arrival of the Miko changes nothing. You are welcome to stay for as long after our duties are done are done as you see fit…and I do hope that will be a long while, yet.” ...Even when he said such kind things that caused her to blush. The nervous energy she felt from him made her blush deepen. That wasn't the first time he had been nervous speaking with her, but she wasn't sure why. At least she wasn't the only one.

She smiled, and her blush faded as she looked up at him again. He truly had become her best friend since she and her mother had come to live in the palace. "Thank you, Shun-san," she said, turning away, surpressing a nervous giggle that threatened to bubble up. Her own cheerful feelings and his nervous ones had met in an odd way. She cleared her throat and regained her senses. "Okaa-san and I are much happier not being in hiding. I think she is adjusting slower than I am, but she's lived with this family history for longer. I would have to talk to her about it, but I'd love to stay as long as you'll have us." She beamed up at him again in a reassuring way. Her mother was more wary than she, but she was sure she wouldn't leave the comfort and protection of the palace.

OOC: Flipping the characters, so I can reply to the one on top first. Lol

IC:

Ryou smiled at the older maid. “Good evening, Otome-san. I apologize for disturbing your evening.” He stepped into the room, and gave Chisaka his most charming smile. “I had a nightmare, and as you are the scariest thing I know, I thought I would see if you could come frighten away the monsters from under my bed.” His eyes sparkled with mirth. “I apologize for not being the man you expected, but he is currently occupied, and so I hope my less desirable company will serve as a suitable substitute just this once.”

As he spoke, he moved casually forward, taking up her staff and stepping back out of her reach before speaking again. “You see, I thought it may interest you to know we encountered an unusual traveler on our way to The King’s Crown, this evening. She was a lovely young woman with dark red hair and eyes, and she handled a sword as well as - if not better than - any person I’ve seen in the guard or army. I daresay she could even give myself and Shian a run for our money, if she had a mind.”

He smirke, eyes twinkling. He was well aware that he was beating around the bush, and it was probably getting on Chisaka’s nerves, but he just couldn’t pass up the chance to tease her, just as he did Shuna nd Shian, and his own brothers and sisters. “But perhaps most importantly, this young woman appeared in a flash of blue light, dressed in clothing not seen in this world, and could identify that Shun, KAzune, and myself were connected to her in some way. She seemed even able to tell what our symbols were.”

He leaned forward and rested the staff within her reach once more before turning away from her. “Now, they’re all on their way back now - I came ahead to get a room set up for her - so if you’ll get dressed, we can go wait in Shun’s office for them to arrive. It shouldn’t be much longer now. Shun will undoubtedly be annoyed that I disturbed you, but I thought it only right that all present Seishi have the opportunity to make their introductions.*

~~~

Shun listened to her words, giving them great thought. “Perhaps I can ask my mother to speak to yours.As you may be aware, my mother was considered an outsider in the palace for a very long time. It was not until she stepped in to raise my brother and sisters as her own that she began to be accepted, and not fully until I took the throne. Perhaps the pair of them can find some common ground, and once your mother has a suitable companion, it may just help her feel more at ease.” He laughed softly. “At any rate, I must confess that it would do my heart well to see my mother making friends. To date, most of her companions are the older maids, and while I approve of any friendship that brings joy to those involved, I know the maids like Otome-san have much less free time than my mother does. It could indeed prove good for both of them.” It made him quite happy to hear Kazune say that she wished to stay in the capital. It was hard for a man in his position to find even one really, honestly trustworthy friend, and while he considered himself blessed by the Gods that he had so many trustworthy friends - and the thought of losing any one of them hurt his heart - he had to admit that even though he wasn't sure of the exact reason, the thought of Kazune someday leaving the palace filled him with more concern than the others. Perhaps it was because so many of his friends were born and raised in the capital, and thus really had nowhere else to go, but… There was definitely some reason. Perhaps he could think about that later and try to determine what it was…

Laughter at the mental image she described consumed him, such that he had to stop walking for a moment, chuckling breathlessly and leaning lightly against a building for a moment. “I can imagine the face of the Lady Miyako, if-!” He laughed for several seconds more before he was able to continue in their walk. “Ahhhh, but you should not put such thoughts in my head. It gives me too many tempting ideas… and I dare not. I might actually get stabbed, if I did…” As he spoke, they rounded a turn in the road, and the palace finally came into view. It was a few minutes’ walk yet, but it looked quite lovely, in the deepening sunset. “Your destination lies before you. Welcome to Kutou Palace.”

*****

Teal-colored hair was a little mussed due to her movement against the couch, but it was offset by the foul-mouthed grumbles he could undoubtedly clearly hear. “I assure you Ryou… I can be easily more dangerous to your continued health that your worst nightmare brought into reality could manage.” A look over the edge of the paper she was reading. “Especially when my work is interrupted by obnoxious generals who decide to lay out hints and waste my time. Now… what did you actually want?” He is quick to elaborate, just vaguely enough to still be annoying, but clear enough, and she immediately shoved the blanket off of her legs, immediately pushing to a stand and brushing completely past his suggestion without acknowledgment. “Fetch that kimono on the corner of the bed, there, and get my geta. It will be dark soon… I must meet with her before she comes to the palace. It would only be polite.”

Akahana had never really taken the time to consider if she had any talents in the art of mirth and comedy although she had been unable to hide her laughter when reading a book or watching a scene unfold that suited her taste, she has never stopped to elaborate on these feelings and consider the possibility that she could meet someone who would partake in their enjoyment with her. Furthermore, this was the very first time she shared humour of her own machinations. There was no telling whether Shian would find it worthy of his time, whether he would laugh with all his heart and approve of her creativity. But as they said, unless you tried you would never know. So far, during their walk to the Palace, Shian and Akahana had been of the same mind and their laughter had echoed on the now silent streets as people finished getting ready to close the shop and go home to their families. Akahana closed her eyes feeling a gentle breeze caress her cheeks and hair and then sighed contentedly. She was enjoying this evening like no other, how sad, this was the best memory she had built in years. That said a lot about the way of life forced upon her.

She felt a peace she did not recognise but, for the time being she decided she would not worry so much about her past coming to hunt her or Zuku. For now, just this once, she would allow herself the opportunity to actually appreciate these sensations, make the most of the company and learn about the people who welcomed her to their kingdom and escorted her to the Palace. It was all new to her and she had never been one to indulge herself in any way, she was, for the most part, a lifeless being who killed on demand. She did read books and watched the occasional no oír at the cinema but that still did not make her as human as everyone else. Starting with the fact that she was a bit socially awkward due to her lack of bonding with other persons. And then, she knew that if she tried to make friends with anyone, Zuku would have their heads. He had protected her and granted the means for revenge against her broken childhood but anything else was off-limits to her, it was the price she was forced to pay to survive. The only person who had approached her, despite it all, had been Gina. But even so, she ensured to keep her in the dark about most of the things concerning her life to keep her safe. Unfortunately, that also meant she would be unable to connect with her on a more personal level, like the best of friends.

Her thoughts silently vanished at the sound of Shian’s laughter. It was as if she had been brought back to reality and this truly was not a dream. This was proof that she had indeed been pulled inside a book and she was no longer experiencing the life she had up till now. It was reassuring and she found herself eyeing Shian as he bent over and leaned on a building. Something about his laughter was contagious. Remembering the last thing she had said she started with a smirk but that soon turned into laughter and she joined in as their laughter reverberated around them like a beautiful melody with the most effective accompaniment. She found herself with her arms around her stomach bending as they both laughed for a moment.

“I can imagine the face of the Lady Miyako, if-! Ahhhh, but you should not put such thoughts in my head. It gives me too many tempting ideas… and I dare not. I might actually get stabbed, if I did…”

This only further fuelled her laughing fit and found her eyes glitter with tears. She could not remember a time when she laughed this much, or rather when she enjoyed herself this much. She took a deep breath to regain composure. She could already feel pain on her cheeks and abs from all the laughter. She turned to grin at Shian and replied in kind, “Fear not, if a stab came your way from such merriment I would be there to gracefully change its course.” She smirked, “After all, any extreme emotion can easily result in a lack of proper aim.”

“Your destination lies before you. Welcome to Kutou Palace.”

She took in the sight before her for a moment. The Palace looked both impressive and imposing and she remembered her lack of knowledge on courtly manners. It was enough to sober her up from all the laughter, although she still had a smile on her face. This would be her new home, she could scarcely believe that someone like her, with her past, and being completely undeserving of such graces would end up living in this Palace alongside its nobility and royalty; it made her slightly uneasy. But she will do her best. She will ensure to learn as much as possible and become a Miko worthy of such people and atone for her past crimes. “This is very much real, no denying it now.” She felt a bit nervous, her life had been so monotonous and she seldom had time to think that now that it had taken a turn she was not sure where to begin.

OOC: Sorry to kinda rush posting like this. To be honest, I already had the post made when we got the pm, and I held off posting it, but with the next couple days being a holiday and then trying to get stuff done Monday, I didn't want to run the risk of forgetting to put it up, and having my three days run out so that my turn got skipped.

IC:
Ryou watched Chisaka with a raised eyebrow. “You do realize they are literally coming here to meet us, right? By the time you get ready, and we head out, they’ll just about be at the palace gate.” Still, he knew Chisaka well enough to know that his words would not change her mind. Instead, he moved to get her geta and Kimono as requested, and then picked up Shizuku from where she was swimming in a basin. “Come on, little one, your stubborn mommy is going to get Uncle Ryou fired and locked up in the dungeons for this, but I know you’ll worry if she leaves without you.” He laughed softly when the little dragon gave a great shake and sent all the little water droplets clinging to her scales scattering in the air. He lifted her up to his own shoulder to wait until Chisaka was ready. “Please tell me you’ll at least do me the honor of taking my arm and letting me escort you properly? For my own sanity and wellbeing?” When she was ready, he offered her the staff he still held and watched as Shizuki lifted from his shoulder and moved through the air - as if swimming - to settle on Chisaka’s shoulder. He offered her his arm and began to walk out with her, taking the most direct path to meet with the others.

~~~

Shun heard Akahanna and Shian both dissolve into laughter, and glanced back to see Shian lean against a building, he was laughing so hard. The Emperor smiled. His best friend didn’t open up to many people, so it was nice to see him enjoying himself so much. Sure, Shian was social, but he only allowed himself to show his true personality with a small, select group of people. Shun could not fault him for this, as he was the same, in many ways. His private and public personas were not vastly different, but he said and did things around his friends that would be too unseemly for a dignified Emperor. Sneaking out with the guys earlier that evening to go to the tavern to unwind was a prime example. It was hardly dignified, but he just needed to let his hair down from time to time.

He was just turning back to continue his quiet conversation with Kazune when he turned a corner in the path and saw two figures emerging from the shadows ahead of them, and heading their way. He recognized the two before they’d stepped properly under one of the streetlamps, and he stopped walking instantly, staring at the pair. “Ryou? Chisaka? What in Seriyuu’s name are you two doing here? We’ve nearly made it back to the palace, you should’ve just waited there for us.” He shifted his eyes to the young teal haired woman. “And I’d thought you had turned in for the night already…”

The general’s suggestion made her snort haughtily as he brought her things to her. “I will not be meeting the Miko in my nightclothes, Ryou. And if Shun gets back to the palace with her, then I won’t be meeting her tonight at all, which you know perfectly well.” She took the things from him, and used the support of the wall to step behind a screen, seating herself in a chair there in order to change her clothes. It was a slower process than she cared for, but when she emerged once more, dressed and presentable, she extended her hand, indicating that she would allow him to help her walk. “Shun would have sixteen fluffy kittens if I walked without assistance. And that would hardly be dignified, before the Miko. Here…” She threw a cloak around her, and then accepted her staff from him. The little dragon settled around her shoulders for warmth, and she gave the little creature a smile, and a little scratch. “Let’s go.”

*****

“This is very much real, no denying it now.”



A little smile drew onto the dark features at her comment. “What odd dreams you must have, to think this one of them. Dropping into a forest and accompanying several strange men to a palace… and strangest of all, the one you have chosen for escort.” That was a little fun poked at himself, followed by a light chuckle. “To dream up a man like me, you’d have to be at least a little odd. To think that-” He too now spotted the shadowy figures in the distance, and stiffened a little beside her, though it was tension rather than fear of danger, as one might have supposed, and he showed it a moment later with a heavy sigh, and a shift beside her. “Ryou… you just had to tell her…” He shook his head, and then lowered his voice, though his eyes never left the shadowy pair. “Another of your Seishi, Miko-san. Kasai Chisaka. Her… mental strength far surpasses that of her body.”



“I heard that, soldier boy!” That call came as the pair closed the distance, revealing the frail-looking woman, who instantly dropped Ryou’s arm and, leaning on her staff, came forward to greet the others under her own power, with the support of her staff. “I could hardly be expected to let the Miko come to us from another world, and not at least greet her before she arrived at the palace, my Emperor. She came so far, I can at least meet her… if not halfway, then at least as far as I am able to come.” Despite leaning on her staff, she gave a remarkably graceful bow, and then straightened with a glint of bright intelligence in the blue-green eyes. “Miko-sama… I am Kaede, though most of your companions would call me Chisaka, which of course you are welcome to use. Your arrival has been long awaited. Welcome to Kutou.”

Who would have thought that the Akahana that never showed any signs of her humanity, who spent most of her time alone reading books or partaking on the hobbies she found a hint of joy on-whenever she wasn't busy sacrificing her sanity for the sake of Zuku’s plans-or even walking around learning more of the area where she lived or spent most of her time in. This same Akahana was now doing very different things, she was socialising with a group of people she just met, she was laughing like never before and deeply engrossed in her conversations with Shian and was feeling more human than she had been in the past fifteen years of her life. It was such a rare sight she could scarcely believe it herself and had come to consider the possibility that she had simply fallen asleep while reading the book-although that had never happened to her before, especially when on duty. She knew the consequences of not doing everything with precision and within the deadline set by Zuku, it would just cause her immeasurable pain, among other things. So, the more time she spent in this world the more real it felt, if she could not find a rational explanation for her falling asleep, for she would never do that, then the only plausible option was to accept the fact that this had truly happened and she had been absorbed into the story of a magical book. And she seemed to have no problem believing this.

In fact, she believed it so much that, as soon as she saw the Palace in the distance, a light smile graced her lips and she thought it would be lovely to call that place her home if they would have her. She knew that there were still things she did not know about this world and whatever it was that would be required of her, but for some reason she found a knowledge inside herself that she did not know was there. Maybe she had once been an inhabitant of this world, or she had been a Seishi reincarnated, who knew? But, it was true that it was a bit baffling that she had known she was the Seriyuu no Miko or that some of the people walking next to her were her Celestial Warriors, also referred to as Seishi. At the beginning she thought it could have been because of some books she had read about Chinese mythology, but at this stage, she was not that sure anymore. It did not matter, she would soon find out about everything and would then be able to plan her next course of action.

She noticed the Emperor turned to smile at them and that disarmed her somewhat for she found herself smiling back at him, ever so slightly. She looked at the ground a bit puzzled though, she had remembered that sometimes in Tokyo she had tried to be human again, during the times she went to the cinema or did things where she could see a lot of people in the hopes that seeing them enjoy themselves and being immerse in water it was people enjoyed, that it would help her regain her humanity. But it had never worked and, if anything, it had made her feel more miserable and she had decided that probably due to the life she had led and how many people she had made unhappy by her actions, that she did not deserve to be human, to truly have a place to call him and people to esteem her.

“What odd dreams you must have, to think this one of them. Dropping into a forest and accompanying several strange men to a palace… and strangest of all, the one you have chosen for escort.”

Shian’s words brought her back from her revelries and she realised she had probably looked a bit lost in thought but she was glad Shian had replied to her comment about this being pretty real. She turned to look at him for a moment, the charming smile decorating his handsome face and she felt a bit surprised. Was he teasing her? She felt her cheeks warm up slightly and colour themselves with a hint of pink, which contracted with the intense red colour of her hair and eyes. It was true that, the way she had been interacting with Shian did signify that she found him agreeable and had singled him out as her companion on their way back to the Palace but she had been so immerse in the mirth and discussion that she did not come to think that this might look as if they were flirting in the eyes of everyone else and that embarrassed her greatly. Not that she did not think Shian good company and a somewhat endearing person, but thoughts such as those were no good for her right now. She then looked back at Shian if a bit shily before she said, “Nay, the dreams of these lands are unlike any others I have ever experienced.” She smirked, truth be told, she only remembered having nightmares back in Tokyo and was not sure what her nights would be like in Kutou. “Albeit you tease my escort, he has proven my equal in both mirth and conversation, thus in the lack of idleness I dare say it is best of all.”

“To dream up a man like me, you’d have to be at least a little odd. To think that-”

Shian was such a man that kept Akahana on her toes, she had only just recovered from his previous tease, albeit directed at himself, it also concerned the person he accompanied. As such, she wondered if she had been a bit too forward for this place and time but he would not be laughing if he did not feel fully comfortable to be himself in her company. And that alone made her feel a fluttering sensation in her stomach and a warmth spread from her chest throughout her body. She decided to tease him a bit in kind, “Oh but you see, I am no ordinary woman, to escort a Miko like myself, surely you must have never thought you would see the day.” After all, it was not that common that people trusted by the gods as a blessed person to mediate between the world of the living and that of their spiritual realms, would fight and have the personality she did. “Albeit some would consider this Miko somewhat outspoken, you tolerated the mirth and conversation well enough. Am I right in assuming that, as a result, you have enjoyed that little oddness in me dreaming up a man like you?”

“Ryou… you just had to tell her… Another of your Seishi, Miko-san. Kasai Chisaka. Her… mental strength far surpasses that of her body.”

“I heard that, soldier boy!”

Akahana then noticed a shift in Shian, he looked quite tense and she turned to look in the direction of the approaching figures. At the mention of the identity of the woman Akahana could not hide her joy, this was the lady well versed in astronomy and many other matters of the mind who also had the means to look up at the stars. Well she felt truly honoured that, despite her constitution, she still made the effort to welcome her to their Kingdom and she would definitely show it by walking toward her so they could exchange some words. She had to admit she nearly smirked at Chisaka’s antiques with Shian, it seemed his teasing had backfired on him even though he was speaking low enough to avoid her ears.

“I could hardly be expected to let the Miko come to us from another world, and not at least greet her before she arrived at the palace, my Emperor. She came so far, I can at least meet her… if not halfway, then at least as far as I am able to come.”

Akahana felt her cheeks become a slight tone of vermilion but she managed a shy smile. Chisaka would do all that to welcome her? She had felt undeserving of their help when she first arrived to their world, but now, she felt completely undeserving of such acts of politeness and kindness especially due to her background. She would have to pull her weight and make things right in Kutou in order to atone for her past crimes. Then maybe she would be able to rest properly at night. She then said, “You are too kind to come to greet me, I heartily appreciate it.” She was truly moved, especially due to how much of an effort it was for the lady to walk, even though she bore it with grace and pride, Akahana could tell it was not easy for her to walk on her own. However, she would respect her wishes and walk beside her in case she wished to take her arm. Albeit, she still remained close to Shian so as to not offend her current escort. She gave him a gentle smile.

“Miko-sama… I am Kaede, though most of your companions would call me Chisaka, which of course you are welcome to use. Your arrival has been long awaited. Welcome to Kutou.”

She gave her a polite nod of acknowledgement and then said softly, “Please call me Akahana. It is a pleasure to finally meet you Chisaka, I have heard a lot about you, particularly how you partake in knowledge that can be acquired through arduous study. Particularly you are well erased in the astronomy of the Four Kingdoms and even have the resources of an observatory, I confess, that has always been a weakness to me, if you would ever be so kind to make a bit of time and you are not otherwise engaged, I would very much like learning to see these stars through your eyes.”