Shun shook his head. Shian was his best friend in the entire palace… Perhaps even in all of the land. It couldn’t be helped when he’d grown up with the man as a constant companion. Shian had been there for him in times when - due to the conflict going on - his own brother, Rumaty, had been unable to.

Shian was also an idiot. He was as smart as Shun, easily, but he seemed to have an inability to realize that his actions could be misinterpreted with others, especially if those others were not aware of the customs and culture of Kutou… Like, say, a certain redheaded Miko.

A couple of very vague visions had alerted him that - somehow - Shian had angered Akahanna, and that she as now moodily practicing in the training hall. He sent out word to have more dummies constructed - perhaps looking into making them from sturdier materials - and then he stood from his desk. “Right.” He told Ryou, who had been serving as his guard while Shian attended to other matters. “I need to attend to a personal matter. Why don’t you take the morning off and spend some time with Kaoru-chan?”

“Personal matters, hmm?” Ryou asked. “Have you finally decided to do something about your little crush on a certain fellow Seishi?”

Shun gave him an annoyed look. “I don’t have a ‘crush’ on anyone. I’m simply going to make sure Akahanna is settled in well enough.”

“I thought that was Shian’s job…” Ryou smirked.

“It is my duty to make sure all guests in my home are happy and comfortable.” With that said, he ignored the General as he left his office and started walking for the training hall. Letting himself in, he stood quietly for a moment, waiting for a moment when he didn’t think he would be intruding. “Aka? I just wanted to see how you were doing this morning…”

Akahana had reached the training grounds sooner than usual. There were only two ways for her to calm down her hyperactivity and thirst for action, among other things, one of them was to practice with her weapons and the other was through meditation though the former helped her more than the later. But she did not want to hurt herself with too much sword-play. And lately she practiced much more than usual in this place, in this world. At times though she felt like just staring at the sky and wonder what would happen next. She was not the kind of person to think too much about life but, being on her own now, no slave to simply kill whenever Zuku wanted her to, well, it allowed her to see parts of herself she did not know she had. Ever since she was a child he moulded her into what he wanted her to be, he tricked her into thinking as he wished her to. But now, ever since she came to Kutou it was different and, she was allowed to take her own decisions and in a way she was feeling less her usual self lately and it both puzzled and scared her. How could someone change so much all of a sudden? She closed her eyes feeling a cool breeze tangle with her long red hair and closed her eyes for a fried moment feeling the contracts with her warm body that was also covered in sweat now.

It was at times comforting and at times a reminder of things she had to endure, things that not just anyone survived. And at times she wondered what made her so strong, what made her keep on going? Even she had to admit she should have perished so many times before having looked at death in the eye, but she just would not die, she would still live in that miserable world of hers. And now, she was given the opportunity to live in a beautiful place where people respected her and where she made friends like Gina, she only hoped she was not too worried about her, her friend would worry about her and yet she never revealed her life, to keep her safe.

She took a moment to catch her breath with her eyes closed then feeling peace, trying to soothe her soul and enjoy her time in these lands, if she perished the moment she returned home then she would assume the consequences. She could at least turn back and think of her happy memories here and the people she got to know who, little by little, were showing her the meaning of being human. She did not know what Zuku had planned for her once she returned but she would ensure this book did not fall into his hands or else he would harm all the people in it, she could not let him control two worlds, especially when people like Shun and…Shian, lived here. She had to protect them from this enemy as much as they sought to aid her in her current quest for the remaining Seishi. Her deep scarlet eyes opened and looked at the wooden dummies, most of them were absolutely destroyed due to her training that day. She blushed lightly hoping it would not be too much of a problem to procure new ones, she had to admit that her training had bee harsh back in her world and so her fighting skills surpassed most, few could stand abasing her and even fewer spar, only people like Shian or Ryou were able to contest her skills and that was thrilling, to finally have people she could spar with. She only hoped that she would be strong enough to succeed in this quest and meet whatever awaited her back in her world head on. With no hesitation and no fear.

As she moved to cut at a dummy on the throat with one of her katana she then remembered that other thing that had been bothering. The sudden surge of all sorts of emotions, mainly evoked by one man: Shian. He awoken a whole array of feelings and since she had never had the of upbringing where she could identify emotions without worrying about their meaning, Akahana simply did not know what to do. For the most part she seemed to feel warm whenever he was near and their conversations made her laugh, genuinely laugh and that made her feel so warm she would often go to see the royal physician only to be told she had no malady but that of those that restrain their emotions. What on earth could that possibly mean? It confused her, whenever Shain shows signs of enjoying her company as much as she did, whenever he would have the kind gesture or show concern for her persona. Then it angered her whenever the sings she thought were there would disappear and he would act as if he feared being in the same room as her.

She was not angry at him per se. She was more frustrated at not knowing what to do with everything he made her feel. She blushed remembering the kiss she had given him, she slashed at another dummy and jumped backward. It had been both an action that she felt needed to happen but also she was exploring what he made her feel. She felt so strongly about him that is scared her, and his reaction had amused her but also worried her. She was afraid that because he swore to protect her he was spending all this time with her as er his duty and she might be misinterpreting things. And she was beginning to think that, she had feelings for the man and it shocked her and also terrified her. All these things she had never felt before, what were they?

She kicked at a dummy and jumped back once more, another thing she did not want to do was remove Shian’s freedom by imposing her feelings on him if he did not feel the same but she did not know how to coney such confusion and the last thing she wanted was to cause him any more physical pain as she already had. She grunted and slashed at the nearest dummy before jumping to the side and kicking the other dummy. If he did not share her feelings she would only make him feel uncomfortable and he had been so kind to her, she could not let this become uncomfortable for either party. Maybe it would be best to restrain her emotions, although now that they suffused she was not sure hot to lock them up once more. Was she a lost cause. She gave a battle cry, not too loud to disturb anyone but enough to release her pent up frustration as she attached another dummy. Constantly changing of target in order to not become too absurd in her own musings.

And then, she felt as if suddenly her awareness improved and she could sense things before they happened, she sensed a bird before it entered the room through the window and she had moved to avoid it in advance. That was clear proof that a certain Seishi was in the same room as her. Only one Seishi could heighten her awareness so that she could read an enemy’s movements before they happened: Shun. Besides she could sense the mood of her Seishi if they were close enough.

“Aka? I just wanted to see how you were doing this morning…”

Just as he spoke her trance broke and she slashed at the neck of a dummy, sending the head flying past Shun and outside the training grounds as if to answer his question. She blushed deeply as she had not intended to break another dummy and then blushed even more when it flew so close to her Seishi, she could have injured him. She shook her blades and sheathed them feeling a bit embarrassed to have the Emperor see his training grounds absolutely destroyed by one woman who treated them as means to release her repressed emotions. She was also drenched in sweat, not the loveliest of companies this morning. She ran a hand through her hair and then decided that he was surely used to rooms with sweaty men who training every day. She picked a nearby towel and after using it to wipe her face and neck the drank some water as she approached him.

She was glad that the Emperor had dropped the honorific a while ago at her request, “I… well… the thing is…” Yup, she was an emotional wreck. “It’s one of those mornings. I still struggle with feelings.” She felt ridiculous and hoped Shun would not mind but she was not allowed the possibility of developing feelings when she was younger and then suddenly she was thrown into a different world and her emotions had just escaped all at once and she had no clue what was going on, “I’m too confused…” She looked down at the towel in her hands and then said, “You having a good morning Shun-kun? Still teasing and being teased?” She found herself smiling, her fiery scarlet eyes looking up at her friend. To think she, an assassin, would make friends with an Emperor of old.

“I… well… the thing is… It’s one of those mornings. I still struggle with feelings. I’m too confused… You having a good morning Shun-kun? Still teasing and being teased?”

Shun had a flash of a vision, and took a single step to his right just as the training dummy’s head went flying by to his left. Still, he never commented on it - or the fact that his training room looked like a war zone. His smile was relaxed as he moved to meet her. Listening to her words, he nodded along. She had been trying to learn to process her emotions since coming to their world, and though perhaps Kazune or Chisaka were more qualified, somehow he had stepped into the role of trying to help her out.

He laughed softly at her question. “Yes, as always. I had no idea my General and head bodyguard would make better Jesters, but here we are.” He watched her for a moment, wondering how best to approach the first half of her statement. Chisaka often said he did not understand women, but when the woman didn’t understand herself, surely he was as qualified as the next person. He motioned her over to a bench along one wall and waited for her to sit before he did.

“I know you’ve been struggling a lot with your emotions. I regret that it’s troubled you so, but I confess I’m glad you’re beginning to feel more things. It is not a healthy or joyful life, separated from one’s emotions.” He reached over to take one of her hands, giving it a reassuring squeeze before releasing it again. If you would like to discuss things, perhaps I can arrange things so that lunch can be brought to my office, and we can talk privately while we eat…” He gave a small shrug. “Or we can talk now, if you would rather. I just thought you may like a nice soak in the bathhouse. I’ve got an herbal blend that is great for sore muscles after a hard training session.” He chuckled looking aththe destroyed dummies. “And I would say this qualifies.‘ It was a gentle tease for his newest friend. He hoped that she would take his offer as intended - just a quiet suggestion that they have lunch and talk out what is bothering her.other thought came to mind, and though he had been debating it for some time, he finally made up his mind. “As it happens, I’d greatly appreciate getting to talk over lunch. It will be a welcome break from my duties, and there is something I’ve been meaning to give to you though you are of course free to refuse any or all of my offer if you wish.” He sighed again, but gave her another reassuring smile. “I am the Emperor of Kutou, and that is a duty I take seriously, as is being a Seriyuu Seishi…but being your friend is a privilege I hold quite dear. I just thought I should let you know that.” there was a subtle emphasis on two of those words that showed how sincerely he felt about them.

“Yes, as always. I had no idea my General and head bodyguard would make better Jesters, but here we are.”

Akahana could not stop herself from laughing softly at his words. The two men were incorrigible, always teasing their Emperor and yet Shun never seemed to mind. It surprised her at first that there could be a man with great power who was so close to the people in the Palace and the people in the Kingdom he governed. Zuku had always kept everyone at bay ruling over them with fear and most of the politicians in the world she lived in did not care about their people but about ways to increase their power or monetary gain. This level of selflessness, well she had never seen before. And to this day she still found it surprising at times although mostly admirable by now and the fact that he had insisted she addressed him in a less formal manner, she realised astounded that she had gotten used to calling him Shun-kun out of familiarity and the fact that, somehow, he felt like the family she had never had and she was not sure why. But she had decided she would allow these experiences teach her about her own self for Zuku had prevented that for many years. The trouble with doing that was, all emotions poured out of her at once as if she had unlocked Pandora’s box and were overwhelming her for the most part. She had stopped going to the royal infirmary whenever she felt her face warm mostly because otherwise the man would have requested a ban from her making him waste his time on her silly worries. She felt her cheeks warm just by thinking about it. Why on earth was she unable to have a normal upbringing? She did her best to ignore these feelings as she said, “I dare say your closest and finest are rather endearing whenever mirth is involved. Alas, never tell them this, for their pride would be shattered.” Both Shian and Ryou were man of pride even if the latter seldom showed it.

“I honestly do not know how you do it, every day, you have your own burdens and the difficult task of running a kingdom, and yet you are always offering to help others and allow their troubles become yours. I confess… sometimes I feel I should not trouble any of you further.” They told her many times that she was the Miko of Kutou and they considered her of great importance to their nation but was she doing enough for this kingdom in turn? “I have been wondering about what I could do for you, all of you, to desire such generosity. It is not out of ungratefulness but rather concern that I may not be doing enough and we might not be ready when the darkness comes.” She looked at him for a brief moment her scarlet eyes sparkling with fire, “I have thought at times to help the instructors in teaching new recruits how to handle weapons, or helping the royal guard in any way, but then would I not get in the way of your people? Would that not offend the official instructors or bodyguards who actually have that job and worked hard to achieve it?” She was probably rambling by now and decided to stop talking and take a deep breath. Maybe people expected her to be a symbol, gather her Seishi and just wait in the Palace for the darkness to come but, Akahana could not do something like that, she was an assassin in the past and that meant she needed to take action, she could not sit still wearing pretty dresses and smile at people. Just picturing herself with a dress made her cheeks flush a gentle tone of pink particularly because that led her to wonder if she would look lovely and what Shian would think… She shook her head lightly and ran a hand through her fringe, there she was doing that again… she truly needed to take a bath, she could not let the Emperor see her in such a pitiful state.

“I know you’ve been struggling a lot with your emotions. I regret that it’s troubled you so, but I confess I’m glad you’re beginning to feel more things. It is not a healthy or joyful life, separated from one’s emotions.”

She followed him to the bench and sat next to him. His words touched her but she was not sure why. She could not stop herself from smirking at his words though and then said, her eyes looking into his own, “I believe nothing escapes your sight.” To be honest, she still had not gotten used to the fact that the Emperor had a gift that could activate at any moment and it would regard himself or those around him. It was already hard enough to deal with the sea of emotions to then have to accept the fact that he might see her-when he was not physically present-during any recent or future events in her life and that made her quite self-conscious and shy. She knew that he was rather respectful about the privacy of others and he would need disclose anything he saw unless it represented an immediate threat to the kingdom or his loved ones, but it was still difficult for her to accept that such a thing could exist and that he wouldn’t not exploit such a gift. Perhaps coming to this kingdom would relieve her form any of her past prejudices. She looked down and the said, “For all the years I have lived, feeling so inhuman, I sometimes wonder if repressing these emotions would be the easiest thing to do. I have no social skills either, I do not know how to handle people and that might represent a problem to you and your people. And then…”

That brought her to think about the incident with Shian and her hands closed into fists as they rested on her lap. Was it truly the right thing to let these emotions come out and experience them so that she could become more human? She realised that exposing herself to warmer feelings toward Shian had resulted in him getting very injured and it also made her wonder if she was just forcing her emotions on him and he did not even feel the same way about her. He was a loyal bodyguard but, perhaps spending so much time with him was not a good thing, what if it only made him avoid her? It was true that he had not walked out on her that night, but he couldn’t, he was too injured. But then the next morning he had pulled her close to keep her warm, was that out of his sense of what a gentleman ought to do? He had been surprised of being that close to her as soon as she woke up. She shook her head, she then spoke to continue her train of thought, “… And then there is a great chance I might just be forcing emotions onto others.” She bit her lower lip and looked down, “Perhaps it would be best if I’m not assigned a bodyguard, you are the Emperor of this whole kingdom I cannot have something happen to you because you have appointed your best bodyguard to protect me.” It was a roundabout way of her telling him to relieve Shian of his duties, she did not want to hurt him any more than she already did and, she did not want him to hate her for how clumsy she was with her emotions. She was an absolute lost cause. She was a strong warrior, she could protect herself, back in Tokyo she had no one, Kutou should not be any different and yet, that sense of knowing that someone so strong and trustworthy had sited to her story that night and had sworn to keep her safe, well that made her hands relax and her face soften, and the smallest of smiles graced her lips, Shian had done for her what no one else ever had, he had been reliable enough that she trusted a person for the first time in her life with her past. And she genuinely did not wish Shian to be reasoned back to protect the Emperor. She just did not know why but she spoke words she did not mean. Maybe because she did not want to cause him any more trouble.

“If you would like to discuss things, perhaps I can arrange things so that lunch can be brought to my office, and we can talk privately while we eat… Or we can talk now, if you would rather. I just thought you may like a nice soak in the bathhouse. I’ve got an herbal blend that is great for sore muscles after a hard training session.”

The moment Shun touched her hand to reassure her that he was here for her she left her reveries and did her best not to move her hand away. She still had to remind herself that human contact was normal, that not only death and torture could be caused by someone else’s hands. She was still a work in progress. She turned to look at Shun and smiled softly and shyly at him, he really was like the brother she had never had. He wished to offer her some of his precious time just to ensure she did not take up everything on her own. For a moment she was unsure as to what to reply, she was aware that she needed a bath and that she was indeed hungry but she feared she might dissuade herself from bothering the Emperor should she leave the ready herself and promise to have tea and food with him at his office. But then, she could not spend time looking like this and smelling like the frustrations that brought about this intense training session. Maybe a bath would be best and then she could meet him at the office. It would also help her regain composure, he had caught her red handed. Her emotions were all over the place and she had gotten used to pretending everything was fine, but then again no-one could fool Shun, especially not her.

“And I would say this qualifies.”

It was then she took a moment to look around them and was struck by what she saw. It was as if her emotions had taken over her body and destroyed the training grounds. Her face turned a dark shade of vermilion and then she stood up looking around, “I… I…” How on earth did she managed that? It looked as if a huge ogre had come and destroyed it all with a huge war-hammer. “I’m not sure how that happened… I’m so sorry, I should help fix this!” In all honesty, Akahana had never been teased before and her since arriving in Kutou she could still be quite dense when it came to such matters. It was rather peculiar as she had quite the gift at teasing others, but she had a habit of doing that since her life in Tokyo although those would be less friendly circumstances so whenever it was fired back at her she just had no idea what to do. She rushed outside to bring back the head of a dummy she had accidentally shot in his direction and then said, “I hope I did not hurt you when I…” She then shut her mouth feeling even more embarrassed, “You were… teasing weren’t you?”-Well now she felt silly.

“As it happens, I’d greatly appreciate getting to talk over lunch. It will be a welcome break from my duties, and there is something I’ve been meaning to give to you though you are of course free to refuse any or all of my offer if you wish.”

She looked at Shun for a moment, did he truly wish to spend time with her like he did with the people he esteemed? She then wondered what it was that he wished to give her. Well, if she promised she could not back down. “I…” But something still made her hesitate some. She realised that she did not wish to be invited because she was a guest in the Palace or because she was the Miko. She had truly began to see this place as her home, hasn’t she? And she cared deeply for the people in this Palace and the people of this Kingdom.

“I am the Emperor of Kutou, and that is a duty I take seriously, as is being a Seriyuu Seishi…but being your friend is a privilege I hold quite dear. I just thought I should let you know that.”

She felt touched by his words and her eyes watered at that moment. To be called a ‘friend’. To be offered the mantle of friendship and to be considered important. This Emperor was truly someone remarkable. She felt the tears in he’s eyes, his words had moved her so, they began to roll down and she turned her back on him quickly removing them, “I will join you, I too wish to serve you as the benevolent Emperor you are, protect you as your Miko… but also wish to be closer to you and all the people who have lent me a helping hand and have the privilege to call you friends.”-She then added, “I shall meet you in your office as soon as I’m done with the bath.” She did not turn to look at him then but she whispered, “Thank you.” She hoped he could understand the meaning of the words she spoke before she left the training grounds and walked toward her rooms in order to make herself more presentable. She rushed there as she did not wish to bump into anyone on the way, she still did not wish to have anyone see her cry, even if these were tears of joy.

“I dare say your closest and finest are rather endearing whenever mirth is involved. Alas, never tell them this, for their pride would be shattered.”

Shun laughed heartily. “I believe Ryou could stand for his pride to be shattered. A bit more humility could do wonders for the man.” He started to make a statement about Shian, but recalled in time that he had not told Aka he knew how Shian had ended up with a broken tailbone - the false story had been spread that it was an honest mistake among friends when Ryou gave a friendly shove, and was not aware of the amount of strength he used. He hated being dishonest, but he would do anything to spare both of his friends embarrassment. He also hated how much his abilities allowed him to unintentionally spy on others’ intimate moments. He had no control over them, and he would keep any secrets to himself, but he’d still rather be able to decide not to see something

”I honestly do not know how you do it, every day, you have your own burdens and the difficult task of running a kingdom, and yet you are always offering to help others and allow their troubles become yours. I confess… sometimes I feel I should not trouble any of you further. I have been wondering about what I could do for you, all of you, to desire such generosity. It is not out of ungratefulness but rather concern that I may not be doing enough and we might not be ready when the darkness comes. I have thought at times to help the instructors in teaching new recruits how to handle weapons, or helping the royal guard in any way, but then would I not get in the way of your people? Would that not offend the official instructors or bodyguards who actually have that job and worked hard to achieve it?”

Shun allowed his expression to become more thoughtful as he listened to her. “Aka, running a kingdom is a difficult task… but I am lucky that I do not need to do so by myself. Part of being in charge is knowing when to take charge of a task yourself… and when you can trust those around you enough to take some of that burden. I confess, Chisaka knows more of our current trade relations with other nations than I do, and Ryou has been keeping track of some growing tensions with a general in Sailo. I do not do this jb alone, and so it would be quite selfish of me not to return the favor, and help others when I can." Listening to her latter words, he nodded. “Quite the contrary, I believe that would be a fantastic idea. Hige-san - the head instructor - saw you training a few days ago, and he was quite curious about your twin blade technique. He thought it would be improper to ask the Miko to demonstrate for his men, but he had wanted to look into finding someone here with such a gift.. I tried to convince him to just ask you, but… you know how the older people are.” He gave her a fond smile. “And I am sure Shian could tell you if the guards need any help or additional training. You might also speak to Yukiina-chan or Taiyo-san.” He looked out the nearest window, still smiling as he said this, but finally turned back to her again. “I am aware that there has been a lot more sitting around and waiting than any of us have expected, but as Chisaka insists on accompanying us, I have been taking extra time to make arrangements. I’ve sent a messenger to fetch a Suzaku Seishi who has vast healking knowledge, with the hopes that he can examine her and mix up some medicine that will work more potently withoutle leaving her exhausted afterward. Unfortunately, as he is traveling with his own Miko, it has been hard to track them down. I told the messenger to let them know they were all welcome to come here, but we shall see, I suppose.” He shook his head. “That is all a bit off topic, isn’t it? What I am trying to say, Aka-chan is that you do not need to feel like you are undeserving, or that we think you are ungrateful. I speak for myself - and I can safely say the others as well - when I sat that the generosity we have shown you is only in gratitude for the friendship and joy you have given us. I would be kind to any Miko Seriyuu had sent me…but I would only have a conversation like this with a friend.”

“I believe nothing escapes your sight. For all the years I have lived, feeling so inhuman, I sometimes wonder if repressing these emotions would be the easiest thing to do. I have no social skills either, I do not know how to handle people and that might represent a problem to you and your people. And then…”

“Not all of my observations come from my visions, Aka… Some are merely what my mundane eyes have witnessed, and my limited powers of reason have deduced.” e chuckled at her next words, though not in a mocking way. “For one who does not know how to handle people, you have done a marvelous job winning over every member of the tightest knit group of friends in Kutou.” He gave her hand another careful squeeze. “Be yourself. Let your feelings come as you may. You will never break free of your past torment until you learn to live with the full range of feelings that the Gods have blessed you with, and you will only get better with others through practice.” He was quiet for a moment, before he finally decided to venture one more piece of information for her to consider. “You may not realize it, but you are loved, just as you are at this very moment. I have come to see you as something of an unofficial sister, even as I see Shian or Ryou as my brothers. And I am not the only one who has become fond of you during your time here…”

“… And then there is a great chance I might just be forcing emotions onto others. Perhaps it would be best if I’m not assigned a bodyguard, you are the Emperor of this whole kingdom. I cannot have something happen to you because you have appointed your best bodyguard to protect me.”

Shun shook his head gently. He had a feeling that this was the heart of the matter, and related to the little vision he had the other night. “Never worry about forcing your emotions on others. If you do not let others know how you feel, how will they know? As for any potentially unfavorable reactions to your emotions… Consider this;” He leaned forward and propped his elbows on his knee for a moment, lacing the fingers of both hands together as he considered how to put what he wanted to say. “Is it not possible that - just as you are having trouble processing these new emoticons - others may have the same difficulty? There have been a great number of new situations occurring lately… great changes for all of us, and if the situation is new, and unlike anything one has previously experienced, would it not make sense that one would need to take a step back and assess the situation? Likewise, would it not make sense that the immediate response may be born out of uncertainty, rather than anything more hostile?” He leaned back and looked at her once more. “My dear Aka-chan… I never formally assigned Shian to guard you. I told him that - as the Miko - I would not hesitate to lay my life down to protect you, and he decided for himself that the best way to continue to keep my life safe was to expend his energies keeping your life safe. It is a task he could walk away from if he so chooses, so if he does not…well, it means he does not want to.”

“I… I… I’m not sure how that happened… I’m so sorry, I should help fix this! I hope I did not hurt you when I… You were… teasing weren’t you?”

Shun found himself laughing heartily once more. Standing, he took the dummy head from her, and leaned down to kiss her cheek - just as he often did his sisters - before stepping over to place it next to a dummy. “I was teasing Imouto-chan. I know you have destroyed many of my training dummies, but it is no worse than anything this room has seen before. I have already ordered the creation of some sturdier ones to replace these, and I am eager to see in what creative new ways you will be able to prove them just as destructible.” His smile was fond.as he turned back to her. “Do not fret so. I could never get mad at you for anything. Why, if you were to turn your blade on me this instant, I would likely apologize for offending you and inquire as to how I could right the wrongs I had committed.”

“I will join you, I too wish to serve you as the benevolent Emperor you are, protect you as your Miko… but also wish to be closer to you and all the people who have lent me a helping hand and have the privilege to call you friends. I shall meet you in your office as soon as I’m done with the bath. Thank you.”

He had corrected her before that as a Seishi, it was his job to protect her and not the other way around, but he decided to leave that point off for now. Instead, he nodded. “I shall have lunch brought up, as well as some of that rose tea you seem so fond of. When you head for your bath, ask the attendant to add some of the herbal blend in the blue bottle. I believe it will work all of the soreness out of your muscles. I look forward to our lunch, and more so to our continued conversation.”

With that, and one last cheerful smile, he turned and took his leave. Finding Hina-san, he made the lunch and tea request, and then he went to have a quick word with Chisaka - who was in her room resting today - explaining that he was having lunch with Aka, and would come check on her and join her for dinner instead.

He then went to his office and cleared some space on one of the tables for their food and tea. He then pulled the two most comfortable chairs over for them to sit in, and made sure everything was as ready as it could be before he set down to compose a few notes as he waited for Aka’s arrival.

“I believe Ryou could stand for his pride to be shattered. A bit more humility could do wonders for the man.”

Akahana smiled at Shun for a moment and then said, “I believe Ryou has been taken care of since the moment he started dating Hisoka-chan.” She laughed softly and then said, “I still cannot believe how well she keeps him in line, however, you can tell both have strong feelings for one another.” It was admirable really for two persons of completely different backgrounds and occupations and… ‘hobbies’ to connect the way both of them had. She had only found stories like that in books back in her world, it was such a rarity, “I do hope they are aware of how rare a bond they share.” She turned to look at Shun and chuckled, “And if a staff is needed Im sure Chi-Chan’s aim will never weaver when it comes to putting Ryou back in line.”

She looked at Shun for a moment and then asked, “The visions you have, are those limited to the present or can you also see the past or future of a person?” She realised that if that were the case he probably would find out about the terrible things she did back at her world. It was true that her hand had been forced, but that did not change the fact that she had done such terrible things. Then again, knowing she constantly dreamed about Zuku coming to this world and destroying everything and everyone in it… she knew that eventually she would have to point out that a terrible enemy would be coming to their world and it made her feel so guilty…

“Aka, running a kingdom is a difficult task… but I am lucky that I do not need to do so by myself. Part of being in charge is knowing when to take charge of a task yourself… and when you can trust those around you enough to take some of that burden. I confess, Chisaka knows more of our current trade relations with other nations than I do, and Ryou has been keeping track of some growing tensions with a general in Sailo. I do not do this jb alone, and so it would be quite selfish of me not to return the favor, and help others when I can."

Akahana knew, of course, how much the people he cared about helped him as he had a rare upbringing compared to most kings and emperors. And he was indeed a very lucky man, but he was still the Emperor and while she had quoted the physical labour that underwent looking after a kingdom like Kutou, she had mainly emphasised on the burden he carried on his shoulders and it was a load only he could hold. No one else could do it for him. Still she knew he probably understood where she was coming from despite his words and she smiled warmly at him. After all, she could not reprimand her older brother, could she? “That optimism and humbleness suits you Ni-san.”

“Quite the contrary, I believe that would be a fantastic idea. Hige-san - the head instructor - saw you training a few days ago, and he was quite curious about your twin blade technique. He thought it would be improper to ask the Miko to demonstrate for his men, but he had wanted to look into finding someone here with such a gift.. I tried to convince him to just ask you, but… you know how the older people are. And I am sure Shian could tell you if the guards need any help or additional training. You might also speak to Yukiina-chan or Taiyo-san.”

Akahana blushed softly at his comment about her twin sword technique but she was glad because that meant she could be more involved with the chores at the Palace. “I can go speak with the instructors and see what they think, thanks for the input although I don’t think my skills are worthy of praise.” She ran a hand through her long scarlet hair considering she had been trained to kill but decided against speaking on such matters. She had decided to lead a different life I. Kutou and that was all in the past, although she would never forget the faces of her victims. “If you later can think of anything else I could help with, don’t hesitate to say so.”

“I am aware that there has been a lot more sitting around and waiting than any of us have expected, but as Chisaka insists on accompanying us, I have been taking extra time to make arrangements. I’ve sent a messenger to fetch a Suzaku Seishi who has vast healking knowledge, with the hopes that he can examine her and mix up some medicine that will work more potently withoutle leaving her exhausted afterward. Unfortunately, as he is traveling with his own Miko, it has been hard to track them down. I told the messenger to let them know they were all welcome to come here, but we shall see, I suppose. That is all a bit off topic, isn’t it? What I am trying to say, Aka-chan is that you do not need to feel like you are undeserving, or that we think you are ungrateful. I speak for myself - and I can safely say the others as well - when I sat that the generosity we have shown you is only in gratitude for the friendship and joy you have given us. I would be kind to any Miko Seriyuu had sent me…but I would only have a conversation like this with a friend.”

She looked into his eyes and could see how worried he was. It tugged at her heartstrings and she said softly, “Ni-san? Is there any chance you could give me the records of Chi-Chan next time I am sent back to my world I can speak with a doctor I know who is rather outstanding in the event that there might be something we could try to help boost Chi-Chan’s health and help improve on the things she struggles with.” Her eyes pleaded with him to let her at least try to help her beloved friend who taught her so much about the stars in Kutou. She then smiled, “Also, do not apologise for something out of everyone’s control, I understand her wish to come along as one of the Seishi, I’m more than happy to wait as long as needed to ensure Chi-Chan’s comfort.” To his last words something inside her broke, the little girl who had been forsaken by her father, abandoned by her mother and tortured by the one she had admired as a mentor, was no longer alone. Tears began to roll down her cheeks and she was surprised at the fact that she was crying. The last time she cried she was five years old. She had not expected him to call her a friend so readily but she was grateful. She quickly tried to dry her eyes, turning her back toward him, “Thank you.”

“Not all of my observations come from my visions, Aka… Some are merely what my mundane eyes have witnessed, and my limited powers of reason have deduced.”

For a powerful Emperor, Shun was incredibly modest.”Even so, you make use of your tools wisely. I'm sure not just anyone would take everything into consideration when making his mind. And as limited as you state your powers to be, I still think it is amazing what you can do, especially for someone like me who comes from a place devoid of magic.”

“For one who does not know how to handle people, you have done a marvelous job winning over every member of the tightest knit group of friends in Kutou.”

“I…” She blushed deeply at his words and then looked down for a moment to try and regain composure. Could it be true? Could someone as inexperienced as her when it came to socialising and forming bonds truly made her way into the hearts of the people of Kutou? It was such an unbelievable thought and yet she did not think Shin would just tell her that in order to appease her mind or would simply lie in order to say what she wanted to hear. No, usually he was a very honest man and that sometimes put him in extremely embarrassing situations and that thought alone made her giggle silently. “Do you truly think so?”

“Be yourself. Let your feelings come as you may. You will never break free of your past torment until you learn to live with the full range of feelings that the Gods have blessed you with, and you will only get better with others through practice.”

“The past…” He certainly was the kind of person to give wise advice, sometimes with a philosophical flair. It almost made her laugh if it wasn’t for the seriousness of the topic. It was true but she had always thought that if she buried her past and ignored it, then it would not come back to haunt her. But it always did. Another problem was that not everything in her past was gone, she would be unable to fully recover and move forward while Zuku still lived. He was a dangerous man and he had always hunted down the assassins who turned their backs on him and… well their fates were much worse than death. They would die betting for it to come take them. Zuku had always forced Aka to watch. In order to ascertain she would never betray him. “What happens if the past is yet to be the past? It is hard to walk away from the weeds when you sow them as you walk away and in doing so spread their parasitical nature.”

“You may not realize it, but you are loved, just as you are at this very moment. I have come to see you as something of an unofficial sister, even as I see Shian or Ryou as my brothers. And I am not the only one who has become fond of you during your time here…”

Being loved was such an alien concept to her and something she found hard to believe. She had been a child that received no love and she had become a hand that takes lives no matter who she was instructed to kill. And yet the seriousness in his eyes felt reassuring. Her cheeks coloured a darker shade of vermillion thinking about what he had just told her. She had read so many books and had fantasised about being the main heroine of the story who is loved by all. But she had never expected her thoughts would come to pass. “I… am grateful for the affection you have all granted me. I will do my best to be worthy of such feelings and return them tenfold.”

“Never worry about forcing your emotions on others. If you do not let others know how you feel, how will they know? As for any potentially unfavorable reactions to your emotions… Consider this. Is it not possible that - just as you are having trouble processing these new emoticons - others may have the same difficulty? There have been a great number of new situations occurring lately… great changes for all of us, and if the situation is new, and unlike anything one has previously experienced, would it not make sense that one would need to take a step back and assess the situation? Likewise, would it not make sense that the immediate response may be born out of uncertainty, rather than anything more hostile?” He leaned back and looked at her once more. “My dear Aka-chan… I never formally assigned Shian to guard you. I told him that - as the Miko - I would not hesitate to lay my life down to protect you, and he decided for himself that the best way to continue to keep my life safe was to expend his energies keeping your life safe. It is a task he could walk away from if he so chooses, so if he does not…well, it means he does not want to.”

“You definitely give me much to consider…” Akahana did her best to contain the laughter that assaulted her when Shun reclined like an old and wise man. She was certain everyone would laugh if she told them but his words surprised her greatly. She had assumed that Shian had been appointed to guard her. Her cheeks coloured a slight pink as she looked back at the training ground in shock, so all this time he had been guarding her, he had done so willingly? Even the time they went on that short trip… Shun must think her an ungrateful person for not considering this. “I… I did not know…” where she came from kings and emperors always imposed edicts or ordered everyone around. And the implications of what Shun had just told her hit her like a hurricane and she was unable to look him in the eyes for as long as it took her to regain composure. Was she reading everything the wrong way? But then again, wouldn’t the duties each of them had to abide represent an obstacle? Was she being selfish in the desire to give in to her emotions? Was seeking a little bit of happiness unacceptable?

“I was teasing Imouto-chan. I know you have destroyed many of my training dummies, but it is no worse than anything this room has seen before. I have already ordered the creation of some sturdier ones to replace these, and I am eager to see in what creative new ways you will be able to prove them just as destructible. Do not fret so. I could never get mad at you for anything. Why, if you were to turn your blade on me this instant, I would likely apologize for offending you and inquire as to how I could right the wrongs I had committed.”

Akahana looked down in embarrassment for a moment but she could not stop herself from smiling when he kissed her cheek. He truly was like the brother she never had and the fact that he would tease her was the greatest proof of that. She smirked and then said, “I would never hurt you, rather I would demand compensation for teasing.” She then grinned and added, “I’ll probably easily destroy those other dummies and soon enough Ryou will start tempting you with bets on how long the dummies will last before I destroy them.” She was proud of her skills and had no problem admitting so. Particularly when in the company of someone she loved like an elder brother. She then gently punched his arm to emphasise on him teasing her so, “You should be nicer to your sister.” She was smiling as she spoke though, she had to admit defeat in falling into his joke.”

“I shall have lunch brought up, as well as some of that rose tea you seem so fond of. When you head for your bath, ask the attendant to add some of the herbal blend in the blue bottle. I believe it will work all of the soreness out of your muscles. I look forward to our lunch, and more so to our continued conversation.”

She smiled and said, “You certainly know me by now.” She felt her cheeks warm up at the mention of the rose tea but she simply nodded and left for her room. She did as he instructed and asked for the blend to be applied to her bath and as a maid cribbed her back before leaving her to her own musings Akahana thought about everything Shun had mentioned. Maybe she should reconsider allowing her emotions to teach her more about herself, so far repressing them has not helped her. That also brought up the topic of her past. She felt bad for hiding it from the people she now called her friends and family, maybe it was time to mention this to Shun.

As soon as she was ready the maids helped her to a lovely violet kimono with pink cherry blossoms and an obi of a darker shade of violet. Her hair was elegantly combed behind her shoulders falling on cascades and some hair was neatly arranged in a bun in order to be decorated with a cherry blossom hairpin and a few cherry blossom ornaments were placed loosely on her hair. She blushed lightly when she looked at her reflection. She had never thought about dressing more like a woman in the past, but she found she did not dislike it.

As soon as she reached the Emperor’s study she knocked gently on the door.