Shun snorted as she mentioned the two older men. “Deng and Gao can content themselves with the knowledge that I chose to marry, instead of producing more bastard heirs.” He shook his head and returned the kiss. “They think I am fool enough to not know that they had both rallied for Rumaty to take the throne when my father died, but as they have resigned themselves to my rule and given me the best advice they are mentally capable of, I have not made an issue of it.” Pulling his clothes on quickly, he bent for one last kiss. “I’ll get Otome, and I’ll be back as soon as I can.” He smiled fondly at her. “Thank you for consenting to put a fool out of his misery…”

He let himself out into Chisaka’s sitting room, and crossed to the door that led to Otome’s room. After knocking and apologizing to the older woman for disturbing her at such a late hour, he quietly explained the situation and asked her to get herself and Chisaka ready as soon as possible. With that done, he went next to Shian’s room, knocking firmly and waiting for his friend to answer. “I need you to get ready and meet me in my sitting room within the half hour.” He considered for a moment. “You can take ZuZu either in with my mother, or to Ryou’s room. There were fireworks tonight, so Kaoru will be with him because she is scared…”

Collecting a final kiss, Chisaka began moving about the room as he left, selecting a particular kimono that she knew Shun was quite fond of, and already searching for her geta before her maid could arrive in her room. Finding the younger woman wandering about her own bedroom unclothed was not, in itself, unusual - however, the addition that it had been the Emperor who had awakened her immediately made Otome click her tongue in disapproval, and sigh, crossing to take the things in her mistress’ hands. “Now then, if you’re to be married, it won’t do for you to be passing out halfway to the temple - and you’ve missed your medicine as it is. Getting about like you’ve no better sense in your head, honestly.” Slowly but surely, she bullied the younger woman into a seat, and from there went about preparing her.



Only a few rooms away, thanks to having been relocated to allow Zuya to be near to his other friends - and also away from the more uncouth mouths of some of their common soldiers that shared the halls near his previous accommodations - Shian sat up with a start at the knock on his door. His immediate concern was to glance down at the small form next to his own, to ensure his little sister had not been awakened by the noise, and when he was convinced of that, he slowly got out of bed and fetched his sword. Never before had he been awakened at night like this when there wasn’t some kind of trouble, and so he was guarded when he opened the door… only to find his best friend standing on the other side of it, which caught him quite aback. “Shun…?!” A soft curse, and he rubbed his eyes openly, glancing briefly at the window and noting that even the first lanterns of the village were not lit yet. “It’s hours to dawn… what-” He rubbed his face again. “Take Zu to- ...where’re we going…?”

Shun realized about halfway to his best friend’s room that the knowledge of their previous activities would be painfully clear to Otome, but there was nothing to be done for it now. At any rate, he liked the older woman and thought she was a good match for his strong-willed fiancee.He pushed that thought aside when Shian opened his door, and he was surprised to see the usually alert golden eyes clouded with sleep and confusion. He regretted waking him for a moment, but knew Shian would have been upset if he’d asked someone else. “I need you to get ready and come with us. You and Otome are going to come to the temple so Chisaka and I can marry in secret.” His smile was fond. “If it were not so late, and not to be a secret, I’d ask ZuZu along, but we’ll have to keep it rather hush hush until arrangements can be made for a proper wedding. As my best friend in all the world, there is no one else I’d rather have come…” He chuckled. “And as my personal guard, you would have a conniption if we went without you this time of night…” He smiled at his friend. “Will you come?”

“You and Chisaka…? …marry...?” He rubbed his face for another moment or two, and yawned briefly, but finally sighed heavily which, beyond frustration for being awakened, somehow seemed to also encompass… relief? “Holy Seriyuu on high… finally.” He took a hold of Shun’s arm then, pulling him into the room and addressing him with the kind of authority that he only dared use when they were alone. “Mind Zu for a minute, so I can change.” Golden eyes caught the dim glow of the fire, now little more than embers, as he turned an affectionate, protective glance toward the little girl. “She didn’t mind the fireworks… but she still doesn’t like to sleep alone. Has nightmares.” With no more than that, he stepped into another part of the room - on the other side of a screen - to change, and emerged neatly dressed in dark shades of green and brown. These were the clothes he wore when they went about town together, rather than his uniform, and as he bent to lift the child from his bed, Shun would see that he’d pulled his own shoulder-length hair back into a partial ponytail. That, and a small, simple silver cloak pin - fashioned in the shape of a sword, and presented to him by Shun’s father in recognition of his service to the Empire - were the only concessions he made to the slight implied formality of a wedding, and showed both that he recognized this was an important occasion… and that it was to be an intimate gathering of friends, only. “I’ll take her to your mother. Ryou has likely been up with Kaoru, much of the evening… and if I know your mother, she’s waiting up for us, at any rate.” He paused only to give Shun’s shoulder a squeeze. “I’ll meet you as soon as I’ve settled her, my friend.” And then, he was gone.

Shun could read quite a bit within a single sigh from his friend. He chuckled. "The short story is I am a fool, and we realized that nothing in life is guaranteed, so why put it off?" He sat on the bed next to the sleeping child, and stroked a hand over her fair. "We would draw too much attention going to the temple any other time, but during the Dragon Festival, we would just be one more in an endless throng of couples. So long as I bring enough coins to ensure that the use of our real names does not leave our wedding party, I foresee nothing that could go wrong."

Shun smiled when Shian emerged, and stood so he could take ZuZu. "If you would ask my mother to please make excuses for us in the morning, we should be able to reschedule tomorrow's meeting to the afternoon, and that will give all of us the chance to sleep in and recover a bit from this little adventure." ZuZu yawned and mumbled sleepily, but didn't wake up as her brother carried her.

Sure enough, Jia was sitting up in her room reading through a book of traditional Hokkan folklore. There was a stuffed animal apparently waiting on her bed for the child, and a small silver circlet rested on the table next to her. This was not an unusual sight, as all of those who were close to the Court Oracle knew that it was the feminie version of Shun’s less formal crown - the one he inherited from his father, as this one had been a gift from his father to his mother. She had always kept it in her room, though she never wore it out of respect, but she would often take it down and contemplate it when she was feeling particularly sentimental. Next to it was a small wooden box, and when Shian entered with Zuzu, Jia moved to pick up the box as he got the child settled in her bed. “Here, dear one. Rings. They will be needed for the ceremony. I trust you can keep track of the box until they are called for.” A thought seemed to occur to her, and she added. “I suggest you keep the box closed until then. We would not want to risk losing them…”

~ ~ ~

Shun watched them go, and then rushed to his own room. When he arrived, he freshened up quickly, and searched through his sizable closet until he settled on what to wear. He pulled on a dark green montsuki top that complemented his eyes, and a pair of black, wide legged hakama pants with black tabi socks and geta shoes. It would be much less formal than what he would likely wear when they had a big, proper wedding, a few months from now, but he would fit right in with the other couples getting married at the temple during the festival. He drew out a coin purse, and filled it nearly to bursting with coins from a small safe hidden in his room.

Opening one of the drawers to look for something, he was surprised to see a simple teal folding fan with white and gold designs. Opening it up, he saw that the pattern was a dragon resting atop a stone wall. With the fan in his hand, he saw a small scrap of paper beneath it, and picked it up to read it.

Son, I know that you have a habit of forgetting small details, especially when you are excited. I took the liberty of selecting this fan, and I hope that you will approve of it, but if you do not we shall have another one ordered soon. Love, Jia

Shaking his head with a smile, he put the fan away for now, and pulled on his cloak, using a simple silver cloak pin in the shape of a dragon. After a moment's hesitation, he also took out a green ribbon, and pulled his hair up into a low ponytail, tying it off with the ribbon before he decided that he was finally ready, and left his room to meet the others in his sitting room.

Despite having settled into her life in Kutou by now, Akahana was still a light sleeper and she found that was unless she slept in Shian’s arms for some reason, like that time they had been camping outdoors. Maybe it was because she felt safe in his company and, despite her upbringing, she had come to trust him completely and that was why she could sleep in the knowledge that he would be there to protect her should the need arise. It was a strange thought, she always assumed she could only rely on herself to survive and then she was pulled into a book and had come to interact with other people that she now considered her family. She sat back thinking about Shian and how much she would like to have a chat right now, and maybe let him taste the new cookies she had made, she had used the first cocoa beans she had brown for her dear friend Chisaka, whom she now considered a sister. But then she heard voices and she slid out of her bed making use of her stealth and silent movement skills and leaned on the crevice between the wall and the door to overhear Shun’s conversation with Shian, she nearly gasped in surprise and her chest felt warm, she was truly happy that Shun had finally realised the strength of his feelings toward Chisaka and had found the strength to propose and that she had accepted. It was so wonderful she felt her eyes teary but she decided she would not let them do this without her. She had to be there to witness such a happy union. She dried her tears and decided she would make use of the time to get ready and be at the meeting place, she knew where that would be. It was a bit surprising but Akahana had learned so much about her family in Kutou due to the many things they experienced together and she found that refreshing and it was a welcome feeling.

She did not waste another minute, she moved to her wardrobe and looked for that lovely light pink kimono she had bought a while ago and had not had the chance to wear. It had a lovely pattern of white and gold flowers and some violet on the folds of the dress and the dark brown obi with violet on the top edge also had a pattern of golden flowers and the rope around the oby was a mixture of gold and yellow. The inside of the kimono was golden so the sleeves were gold on the edges. She arranged her hair with several pins to arrange her hair on a beautiful bow with several folds, she left some hair on the front of her face to fall in front of her shoulders and fixed her fringe. She also placed a flower arrangement on the right side of her head to hold the hair bow in place, it had lovely small violet and pink flowers and she also placed a cherry blossom hairpin at the back of it. She had light makeup on as she did not wish to overdo it, but they were going to a festival, after all, and she wanted to look nice for her role as witness.

Finally she grabbed a fan that she had made, Fumiko had taught her how she made maps and she had also mentioned that with fans it was a similar method to draw patterns and they had experimented with some of the materials to make fans and came up with a lovely pattern of a dragon and cherry blossoms. The fan had turned out okay but she had not had a reason to use it. Now it looked lovely on her obi and it would be useful should she feel too warm, after all, there were always big crowds during festivals. She then filled a small bag with the cookies she had made that morning and hoped everyone would like them. She closed the bag gently with a small string and once she heard them walk toward Jia’s room she decided to go to the sitting room where they were meant to meet up before they left for the festival.

A part of her was worried that maybe she had overstepped boundaries by coming to the meeting point and stating the fact that she wished to become the second witness on such a joyous occasion but a greater part of her was too excited. She turned to look outside the window for a moment and hoped that only happiness would befall Shun and Chisaka’s union. She did not have any weapons in her persona on this occasion for she did not deem it necessary, besides, she was more than capable of using anything she could find as a weapon. But this evening, she knew everything would go just as Shun envisaged and there would only be laughter and happiness in the air. She had to properly thank Seriyuu for giving her a chance at a peaceful life in the company of such wonderful people.

The moment she heard footsteps she knew who it was, they were all ready to go. She then said without turning to look behind her, “Surely you did not expect to do this without me, nii-san?” She turned to smile gently at the group although she could not help but wonder what Shian would think of seeing her wearing a kimono.

“Honored Oracle, forgive the intrusion at this late hour…” Somehow, the young man managed to bow gracefully, despite the child stretched across his chest, and he smiled faintly, some of the formality falling as he addressed the woman who had effectively been his mother. “... but your son and I both suspected that we would find you wakeful, tonight. And of all within this palace aside from myself, I trust the safety of Zuya most, with you.” A second bow, and then he gently carried his sister over and tucked her cautiously into bed next to Jia. “You are always so kind to see after me and mine as though we were your own. And I beg your indulgence… the Emperor has requested that, due to his intentions tonight, that you make excuses for us in the morning, as we all know of your great capability in these matters.” Her gaze then indicated the circlet, and the box containing the rings, and as with anyone as close to the royal family as he was, he immediately recognized the older woman’s intention - she was silently blessing the marriage. He cracked a small grin at last. “How long have you had them ready…?” A chuckle. “Just tonight, or since he started noticing girls?” So saying, he respectfully retrieved a clean handkerchief from his pocket and wrapped the circlet delicately in it, tucking it away carefully in a pouch and then extending his hand for the ring box. “I’ll bring your love, to them.” He bent to kiss ZuZu’s hair then, and after the briefest of hesitations, he gave Jia’s hand a squeeze before he made soft excuses and left the room. It did not take him long to traverse the familiar path to Shun’s room, and let himself in. “Your mother sends her love, and her blessing.” He hefted the ring box indicatively, and then patted a pouch at his waist gently. “I believe she is also determined to be the first to give you a wedding present…”

~~~~~

In the balance of time, Otome had fussed and prodded, and after a mild disagreement between the two women, a compromise had been reached. So when at last a shuffle and a distinct three-tap step sounded in the corridor, Chisaka rounded the corner between her room and the Emperor’s in the kimono and geta she’d selected… and face very lightly accentuated with kohls and cheek coloring. It shouldn’t be surprising to anyone present to see her in makeup - this was less formal than what she usually wore to meetings of the imperial cabinet daily, due to her position - and yet, somehow it suited the frail young woman better. Despite her petite figure and the staff she leaned upon, the artful work of her personal maid ensured that Chisaka shone with the simple beauty of the girl Shun had known when they were children, and whom he’d grown to love. Despite that though, she blushed faintly as they moved toward the men, and didn’t immediately meet Shun’s gaze, when Otome took her hand and rested it firmly on his arm, transferring her directly into his care. “Now, as soon as you’re finished, you get straight back here for your tea, missy.” The older woman sniffled a little, and Chisaka laughed softly, giving her hand a squeeze. “What are you talking about? You’re coming… we need another witness.” Otome shook her head. “That honor belongs to another.” She shoos them, quite aware due to her intense knowledge of both the palace itself and its occupants, that Akahana is waiting for them just out of sight.

Jia laughed softly. “My dear, I have already foreseen the marriages of all of my children. I have known for some time who will bring happiness to those I love most.” Her smile became just a bit mischievous. “But if my son should ask… I only just had a vision.” She turned her attention to settling the little girl, tucking the soft toy in with her and brushing some dark curls aside. “Child sleeps like the dead… Just like you did, at that age.” She gave him a smile, and gently squeezed his hand in return. “I’ll make excuses for the four of you, worry not.” She watched him go before turning her attention back to her book. She suspected at least one more visitor tonight, so she may as well wait for it…

~ ~ ~

Shun locked up when his friend entered the room. “Oh, what more present could she have? She already left a fan in my room to give to Chisaka before the ceremony.” He shook his head with a smile. “Have I really been the only clueless one, leading up to this?”

He stepped with his friend out into the hallway. “I was just thinking of walking down to meet her so-” His sentence broke off as he heard a familiar footfall in the quiet palace halls, and he turned just in time to see Chisaka coming his way with Otome. He noticed instantly that she was wearing the kimono he liked her best in, and he could see the subtle makeup that accentuated, rather than covered, delicate features. It took him several seconds to realize he was standing there with his mouth agape. Closing it, he crossed quickly to her and bent for a gentle kiss. “You look stunning, my love…” His smile was bright, and his gaze affectionate as he looked down at her.

It took him another few moments before he seemed to recall he had a gift for her. “Ahem, it may be a bit of a formality now, but…” He pulled the closed fan from his pocket and held it out to her. He was just as surprised as the others when Otome indicated she was not going, but he could not for the life of him think of who could have found out, and might be waiting for them.

Supporting Chisaka, as had become customary for him, he led the way to his sitting room, and paused in the door when he saw who was waiting for them.

“Surely you did not expect to do this without me, nii-san?”

Shun could not help laughing softly as he saw his Miko waiting in a lovely kimono of her own. “Of course not, Imouto-chan. I can think of no one else we would rather have by our side.” He moved up to stand beside her, and leaned down to kiss her forehead as an affectionate older brother would. ”I hope you are not offended that I did not come to you directly. This was all quite spur of the moment, and to be honest, I was a bit too excited to think clearly. I am really very glad that you sleep so lightly, as I would have been kicking myself in the morning for not inviting you.”

He took one more look around the sitting room at three of the most important people in his life, and he could not help but smile. “Shall we head for the temple? It is quite late, so the roads should be mostly empty. It isn’t very far from here either…” So saying, he began to walk with Chisaka, trusting Shian to escort Akahana.

It was a blessedly short and uneventful walk, though they did encounter a red haired man near the entrance to the temple. When he saw they were heading for the temple, he smiled brightly, managing to hail them without seeming obtrusive. “Ah! Two more happy couples to be blessed by Seriyuu at the Dragon Festival! I need not tell you that they say those who marry at this festival are blessed to eternal happiness by the Dragon God himself. You are in luck, as the monk mentioned that he would be closing up for the night in a half hour’s time, to reopen later in the morning. Would you like ink drawings of the happy couples to commemorate the occasion? I can work during the ceremonies, and they will be ready before you leave. No charge.” He clearly seemed to think that both couples were there to marry. “I can also fetch my companion, if either of you needs witnesses…”

Shun smiled at the red haired man, recognizing him from past Festivals. “Tetsuya-san, I should have expected you would be at this festival. I looked for you earlier, but you did not seem to be performing.” He glanced around before lowering his voice. “I trust you can keep this secret for a while?”

“Of course, my friend.” Tetsuya smiled. “I have seen so many couples during this festival that they have all begun to blur together, and I could not say for certain who I have or have not seen…”

“Thank you.” Shun looked down at Chisaka. “Would you like a drawing, my blossom?”

“Of course not, Imouto-chan. I can think of no one else we would rather have by our side.”

Akahana was relieved to hear that Shun was not upset at her being their second witness. After all, yes, she was close to these people and they have been through a lot together but, it was still a very intimate affair and there was the smallest chance that they would not want her to come or even learn of it. So the fact that the young Emperor gave her a reassuring smile and confirmed that he would indeed like her to take part on this special occasion was a relief to her and she felt her shoulders relax and she smiled warmly when she noticed how elegant he looked. “I made sure not to wake anyone up, so fear not, this shall remain a secret.” She winked at him. She then offered him a small handkerchief with his name embroidered and the slogan of his ruling house. She then said, “I made this for you a while ago, and I think it is befitting of this occasion.”

”I hope you are not offended I did not come to you directly. This was all quite spur of the moment, and to be honest, I was a bit too excited to think clearly. I am really very glad that you sleep so lightly, as I would have been kicking myself in the morning for not inviting you.”

She smiled and shook her head, “I could never be offended by any of you, I confess I was not sure if you would have wanted to keep it amongst yourselves as I know how important this occasion is. But I could not stop myself from showing up anyway.” She laughed silently for a moment and then walked forth. She smiled at how beautiful Chisaka looked, “Chi-chan, you are radiant this eve.” She leaned down to kiss her cheek making sure not to mess with their makeup and then she placed a lively little hairpin on her hair with lovely little flowers that complimented her dress, she had been working on it for quite some time in the hopes of gifting it to Chisaka and what better moment than the night of her wedding to Shun?”

“Shall we head for the temple? It is quite late, so the roads should be mostly empty. It isn’t very far from here either…”

She did not usually dress up nor did she wear makeup but she wanted to look her best for the wedding of her two friends and she was curious to know what Shian thought of her looking like this. Akahana blushed lightly when her eyes met Shian’s but she smiled at him. He looked dashing this eve, they all did and it was a most joyous event. She was glad she had woken up right on time. She took Shian’s outstretched arm and kissed his cheek just as they began to walk behind Shun and Chisaka. It was a small walk so it would not be too much for Chisaka and for that Akahana was glad.

As they reached the festival she looked around curiously watching people as they enjoyed themselves, there were food stalls everywhere and small areas where people performed. It made her smile and she was glad that both of her friends were finally tying the knot.

“Ah! Two more happy couples to be blessed by Seriyuu at the Dragon Festival! I need not tell you that they say those who marry at this festival are blessed to eternal happiness by the Dragon God himself. You are in luck, as the monk mentioned that he would be closing up for the night in a half hour’s time, to reopen later in the morning. Would you like ink drawings of the happy couples to commemorate the occasion? I can work during the ceremonies, and they will be ready before you leave. No charge… I can also fetch my companion, if either of you needs witnesses…”

For a moment Akahana looked at the red-haired man a bit confused, then she blushed, surely they could not expect Shian and Akahana to have come to get married. And yet, she wondered if he meant that they needed another witness for Shun’s wedding and she said, “Maybe another witness is needed.” She did not want anything to ruin the happy day of her dear friends. When he mentioned the idea of a drawing being made of the ceremony she said more toward her friends, “It would be a good idea.” She wanted to encourage Chisaka and Shun to have a drawing made for them.

“Tetsuya-san, I should have expected you would be at this festival. I looked for you earlier, but you did not seem to be performing… I trust you can keep this secret for a while?”

“Of course, my friend… I have seen so many couples during this festival that they have all begun to blur together, and I could not say for certain who I have or have not seen…”

As they walked on and reached the temple her heart was still erratic from Tetsuya’s words about thinking the four of them were there to get married. To be honest she had never given it much thought back in Tokyo due to her way of life and then when she came to Kutou she assumed she would not be allowed to stay as much as she wanted to. But then, as she drew her fan to look at the artwork of Seriyuu in it she noticed the monk was getting things ready and walked over to them, “So two couples getting married, I’ll be ready in five minutes. There will be no time to dilly dally as I need to take a break soon” He had assumed so as he noticed the two women were holding a fan. He nodded and then went to get ready before Akahana could recover from the stupor and then she considered Tetsuya’s earlier words, was it true that Seriyuu himself would bless any union that took place during his festival and under the protection of this Shrine? She looked at Shun and Chisaka realising she was probably blushing deeply now, but then she took Shian’s arm and pulled him to the side.

She blushed softly but then she had the courage to look into his eyes as she took his hand in hers and said softly, “You know I used to think I was never granted the chance to live a life like anyone else in my world. But after coming here and getting to know you, I have come to realise that actually, all I have been through has led me to the life I have chosen to live. Whatever the consequences, I wanted to do good, to help this Kingdom, protect all my friends who also wish to protect me and…” She swallowed as her other hand moved to caress his cheek, “...and love you freely.” She then added, “We mortals think we have all the time in the world to come up with solutions to difficult decisions but some of them are not that difficult to make. We are finite beings, time flows constantly and it doesn’t wait for anyone. Right now, we have been given the chance to be part of something great, two dear friends are getting married because they are aware that you only truly live here and now.” Her hand moved away from his face and reached out for the fan she had crafted and she gently held it.

“None of us were experienced in the whole spectrum of human emotions but we walked that path together and have come a long way. I truly believe that you are the perfect match for me and you have brought immeasurable amounts of happiness into my life.” At this point she was a bit nervous but she managed to offer him the fan and looked back into his eyes, “Shian Yīkao, will you marry me and stand by my side when in battle and in peace, when unwell and healthy, to cherish and love me until death and beyond? I make this same vow for you, if you will have me.”

At that moment Jumiko entered the Shrine, she was meant to play and sing during the wedding and also serve as a witness. For a moment there she was surprised when she saw a beam of light. She walked silently to her place and then took out her instrument and got ready to play. She smiled at Tetsuya, she was sure he would do his best to convince them to have a drawing made, he was incredibly talented with that. The monk finished preparations and then moved to stand in place waiting for the couples.

It wasn’t long after she had seen off the Emperor and his soon-to-be bride - and Shian had left Jia to settle her honorary grandchild - that another soft tap on the door announced the visitor that the Oracle expected. This time, it was a simply-dressed maid, but Shun’s mother would instantly recognize Otome, famed throughout the empire as the person best equipped to ensure the continued health of one of their most fragile advisors. Her bow, when she entered, was deep and very formal, and though her position dictated that she had more rights and privileges with most maids, she still did not rise until given formal permission. This was the delicate balance that the maid - who was slightly older even than Jia - always maintained, and it was one of the reasons that she was among the highest paid and most honored servants in the palace. “Most revered Oracle… I am certain you already know why I have come, but formality dictates that I pose the query to you, anyway.” A little smile. “I’m sure you’re aware of the destination your son is seeking with his companions, at the moment. I have arranged for a few of my mistress’ things to be moved into the Imperial quarters tonight, for her use in the morning…” Her gaze becomes cleverly curious. “And I’m assuming that tomorrow, I should ensure that the remainder of the things are also relocated. My only question is-” A keen intelligence suffused her features. “... is that… all of the arrangement that I need to make?” A smile. “Your ring box is missing… and you had visitation from the Imperial jeweler, within the last three weeks. The care that you have taken of those rings is quite intense… so I fail to see why you would have need for the services of the jeweler, unless…” She trailed off, but knew that her meaning would be understood.

~~~~~

“Likely best that I keep the contents of this gift to myself, for the moment.” The young bodyguard patted the pouch again gently. “It might attract a bit more attention than what we are hoping for, if I were to present it, right now.” The question made him chuckle though, and clap Shun heartily on the shoulder. “No, my friend. If it makes you feel better… I am reasonably certain your bride was unaware, as well.”



Indeed, the delicate blush that crept across Chisaka’s features confirmed his words, but she turned into the kiss like a flower to the sun, and the return of his affection seemed to diffuse her worry and embarrassment. “Flatterer.” Still the smile showed that she was pleased, and when he extended the fan to her, she giggled softly and stretched for another kiss before opening it slowly, unveiling the blue dragon thereon and fanning herself for a moment, expression capricious. The smile widened when Aka joined them, bringing a soft laugh as she embraced the Miko. “Had I known you were wakeful, you’d have been the first I summoned, my friend.” A little grin. “Somebody has to maintain their senses, if we’re to be going into town with these two fools.” She bent her head just slightly in order to allow the other woman to properly settle the hairpin amongst her teal locks, and then straightened. “Come… while the sun still slumbers. It will be much more difficult to be anonymous, once daylight arrives.”



And thus, the group of friends proceeded slowly into town, largely to accommodate the weariness of Chisaka, who denied the need for it regularly. By the time they arrived at the temple, her cheeks were a little pink, but she still smiled up at Shun, pure love and joy radiating from her usually-pale countenance. “A drawing, yes. Just like the common folk we are… as ordinary as a sunset.” She favored him with another kiss, and thus did not notice when Akahana drew their friend off by himself.



“Two couples? Oh… no, my friend, you are quite mistaken. You see-” In the midst of addressing the monk, Shian found himself pulled away, and though he followed without protest, the surprise was evident in his features. “Aka…? What’s wrong? We don’t want to waste the monk’s time, and as Chisaka said, we’d do better to be back to the palace before sunrise, if we hope to-” Her words caught him entirely off guard, shocking him to silence, which effectively allowed her to continue uninterrupted. It was the fan that made his jaw drop though, albeit momentarily, before he recovered and closed it again. For several seconds, he stared at her, caught in stupor… until finally, he fumbled into sensible words, again. “... you mean…” He swallowed, and then shook his head to clear it, sounding a bit more like himself. “Me? Marry the Miko?” A half-hearted chuckle. “That’s not… quite how this works, Aka. I mean, you- we couldn’t-” He cleared his throat then, obviously quite uncomfortable as he tried to express one of his main concerns, without directly voicing it, which was something that this inexperienced and stoic man could not do. He took the fan from her then, turning it delicately over in his fingers, like a treasure, but he couldn’t meet her eyes. “You’re meant to save the world, Aka, and… I’m just the wall of muscle that keeps you alive, til then. You can’t-” Another sigh. “No matter what I want… I can’t choose my own happiness over the fate of an entire race of finite, fragile beings.” A hand reached up, a few fingers stroking along her cheekbone, regretfully. “... if it were possible...” But he didn’t finish that statement, falling into uneasy silence.

Jia called softly for the maid to enter when she knocked, and smiled, bidding her to rise once more and make herself comfortable. She laughed softly at Otome’s question, and gave her a conspiratorial smile. “Your wisdom and intuition has always made me think you may be wasted as a maid, Otome-san. Yes, You should probably arrange for all of Chisaka’s things to be relocated, and it may be wise to do the same with Akahana’s. She will need a few things for tomorrow, of course, and the rest can be handled during the day. I also think we should assign Hina-san to be the personal maid of the new little family. Zuzu will need tending, and Akahana will need help until she has the hang of it. We can move her things into the room off of Zuzu’s, and you can choose whether to take the room off of my son’s or take up residence in another room nearby." There was a pause, and her eyes lost focus for a minute before snapping back and landing on the older woman once more. "Yes, the room across the hall for you. I do believe they will want to turn the little room attached to my son's into a small nursery. There should be no rush on the full relocation and renovation, however. It will be weeks yet before the public wedding.” She reached into her book and pulled out a folded piece of paper, offering it to the maid. “If you could leave this where Shian will find it when they return, that shall be all I ask of you tonight. And please, take the morning off. This is quite late for you, and I daresay you have earned the rest. Goodnight, Otome-san.” She watched the maid leave before blowing out her candle and setting her book on the side table. Smiling to herself, she settled down in bed with the sleeping child, pulling her into her arms to rest comfortably snuggled up to her. It did not take long for the Court Oracle to drift off into sleep, secure in the knowledge that many changes were to come, and they would all be good changes, for once…

~ ~ ~

Tetsuya smiled, grabbing his things to accompany them inside the temple. He spent a few moments getting set up. When Jumiko joined him, he smiled down at her. When he spoke, his voice was very low, clearly meant for just her to hear. “Can you keep a secret? That young man with the lovely blue haired lady is the Emperor. She is, I believe, his chief advisor. It would appear that they were feeling a bit impulsive tonight. I’m glad I chose to stay out just a bit later, this evening. The young man of the other couple is his head guard, and the lady is a recent addition to the palace, but I confess I know nothing of her…” He laughed softly. “I tell you this only as I was going to recommend that we come to the palace before we leave town to see if they would like to commission some of your beautiful portraits…”

Shun smiled down at Chisaka. There were some simple chairs nearby - probably used by the elderly monks when they took breaks. Shun gently guided her to one, taking a seat in the other. He watched Shian and Akahana as they moved away a bit, but he was distracted from that by Chisaka’s words and kiss. He smiled affectionately down at her. “You are as lovely tonight as at least a thousand sunsets. I only hope the monk hurries along before you use that incredible intellect of yours and talk yourself out of marrying me.” His smile showed he had no real worries on that topic. He was about to say more when he had a sudden flash. Both Shian and Chisaka would recognize the faraway look his eyes took on when he was struck with a vision.

It was the palace gardens. They were all gathered together. Himself, Chisaka, Ryou, Akahana, and… a few other faces, some familiar and one not, were all standing with Seishi symbols glowing. A young woman with black hair and deep blue eyes that carried the same aura of otherworldliness that Akahana had carried upon her arrival was standing before them, bathed in blue light.

It was gone as quickly as it struck him, and yet practice allowed him to interpret it and realize it was perhaps a bit more metaphorical than literal. He learned several important things from that vision, but one was more imminently important to address than the others. “Excuse me, my little blossom. I need to prevent my best friend from making a big mistake.” He could see the fan Shian was holding. Granting Chisaka one last kiss, he stood and crossed to the other couple. He placed a hand on Akahana’s shoulders to reassure her, but he looked to his best friend.

“If you seek reassurance on what to do, look in the box my mother gave you…” He hesitated. Somehow, he just knew there were two pairs of rings within, just as he knew the meaning of his vision. “And know that Seriyuu has already made arrangements. I do not think we have time to discuss it tonight, but you are able to follow your heart this evening.” He gave him a smile, then turned it toward Aka. “There is no reason we cannot all make our dreams come true under the blessing of the Dragon Festival.” With that said, he turned and walked back across to Chisaka, settling in the chair next to her and holding her hand once more.

The older maid’s smile became warm, and just a tiny bit daring. “Wasted, perhaps… but I suspect that my pursuit of any other profession might meet with extreme protest from the Emperor… especially as I am apparently soon to be the personal maid of his new bride. If his father - rest his soul - has his way about it…” A little grin. “My services will quickly be made indispensable.” Despite the little bit of boldness she spoke with though, she was quickly giving Jia one of her deepest bows, nodding intelligently and shifting back to formality without any hesitation. “Of course. I will see that things are settled for tonight, and make arrangements with the servants to have the bulk of everything moved in the morning.” She took the note that she was given, nodding quickly. “You can trust in me. Perhaps I will peek in on Hina-san on the way… she is often up late, reading. Goodnight, most honored Oracle.” Another deep bow, and she was gone.

~~~~~

Seated beside Shun, the young adviser leaned her staff against her knees, and rested her head against his shoulder, smiling. “You always did like me, in this kimono… and if I must wear the traditional thing, in a year or so for the formal, official wedding, at least I thought I might wear something we both like, this time.” She laughed gently at his jokingly-voiced desire for the monk to hurry. “Nonsense. A woman of my intelligence knows well that marrying up can be quite to one’s advantage… and Seriyuu’s name, am I doing that.” Next came a sharp, but expected tease, though at a whisper that only he could hear. “A girl has to make her name somehow… you wouldn’t even have known the names of my parents, had they not been mine, and now, I’m to marry the thickest-headed Emperor of the dynasty.”



She let him go though, when his attention turned to the other young couple, separated enough from them that she could not quite hear the conversation that was occurring between them… but knowing both of her friends, she could guess. For one, Shian was clearly struggling with himself, and the light in the golden eyes had dimmed with regret. “Aka, I-” Shun inserted himself into the conversation there, somehow both alleviating and causing more embarrassment for his floundering friend, whose gaze flicked between the Emperor, the Miko, and the box in his own hand. It had been forgotten, as his mind was consumed with other things, but Shun prompted his attention back to it again, and he looked surprised. “She… sent your father’s ring for you, and-” He’d lifted the box as he spoke, and now opened it… and fell silent when Shun’s prediction proved to be correct - there were, in fact, two pairs of rings in the box. One set was clearly older, but well cared for… and one set newer, freshly cut and forged, and clearly styled as a male and female version of the same band. It was only then that Shun’s words rang more soundly in his mind.



“If you seek reassurance on what to do, look in the box my mother gave you… And know that Seriyuu has already made arrangements… There is no reason we cannot all make our dreams come true under the blessing of the Dragon Festival.”



He simply stared at the box in his hand for several long moments… and then of a sudden, Shun would find it pushed into his hand, for Shian had need of both of his in order to lift Akahana around the waist, twirling her in a tight little circle before setting her back on her feet, and bending to kiss her soundly. It was deeper and longer than was actually publicly appropriate, but he didn’t seem to care who saw, and when he finally released her once more, he was breathing hard. But the warm light was back in his eyes as he shifted the fan in his grip, and slowly, deliberately opened it, turning the pattern to face Akahana. “With faith that Seriyuu has put you into my path, and provided still for the redemption of our world… yes, my rose. I will marry you.”

“Two couples? Oh… no, my friend, you are quite mistaken. You see-”

The monk raised an eyebrow when Shian shook his head and then was dragged away by his companion. It was not uncommon for people to change their mind last minute but he had more than enough time to officiate one final marriage ceremony and so he finished getting ready while two discussed and the other two enjoyed the night together. Yes, even the monk could tell it was a special night and he wasn’t entirely sure why that was.

“Can you keep a secret? That young man with the lovely blue haired lady is the Emperor. She is, I believe, his chief advisor. It would appear that they were feeling a bit impulsive tonight. I’m glad I chose to stay out just a bit later, this evening. The young man of the other couple is his head guard, and the lady is a recent addition to the palace, but I confess I know nothing of her… I tell you this only as I was going to recommend that we come to the palace before we leave town to see if they would like to commission some of your beautiful portraits…”

Jumiko smiled at Tetsuya, “Sounds like a good idea, maybe we can visit the Palace in a couple of days in order to offer a pair of portraits.” Her since she met Tetsuya her life had improved considerably, although she still had to deal with certain people, she felt she had someone to understand her and she did not feel alone anymore. She blushed softly as she finished getting her instrument ready, it always surprised her how different Tetsuya looked during the day compared to at night, but she did not dislike the contrast for both were parts of the person he was. She kissed his cheek shyly before she turned to look at the monk with rosy cheeks.

“Aka…? What’s wrong? We don’t want to waste the monk’s time, and as Chisaka said, we’d do better to be back to the palace before sunrise, if we hope to... you mean… Me? Marry the Miko? That’s not… quite how this works, Aka. I mean, you- we couldn’t-You’re meant to save the world, Aka, and… I’m just the wall of muscle that keeps you alive, til then. You can’t-No matter what I want… I can’t choose my own happiness over the fate of an entire race of finite, fragile beings... if it were possible…”

At that moment Akahana realised how foolish her thoughts had been. She had seen a chance of happiness and had snatched it forgetting she had a duty regarding Kutou and its people. She had never seen what happiness could look like, she had never felt at home or appreciated until she came to Kutou and met the lovely people she did not wish to lead behind. She blushed lightly at the audacity of voicing such a selfish request after all these people had done for her. She felt as if she were being ungrateful not only for the things they have done for her but for the affection they freely granted her.

She looked at the fan for a moment as Shian moved to return it, she was lost for words, between embarrassment and the sting of rejection she was not sure how to fix things. Would they all get annoyed at her? Would they deem her a spoiled woman who at the first sight of happiness abandoned them and all the promises she made? No, she could never forget what she promised and she intended on carrying out her duties. But, there was that part of her that wanted to stay, she felt she belonged in Kutou and there was nothing but despair and death waiting for her back in Modern Japan. She would rather die than return to that life. She looked down at the fan, a hand gently moving to receive it, “I… Shian…” How could she apologise for causing him such pain and for making it seems as if she would not do as she had promised? How could she prove that she had not betrayed their trust?

But then her hand stopped feeling Shun’s comforting hand on her shoulder. She felt tears in her eyes, he truly was like the brother she never had, looking at him a bit surprised she whispered, “Ni-san…”

“If you seek reassurance on what to do, look in the box my mother gave you… And know that Seriyuu has already made arrangements… There is no reason we cannot all make our dreams come true under the blessing of the Dragon Festival.”

“She… sent your father’s ring for you, and-”

Akahana’s eyes opened widely when she heart Shun’s words and watched Shian open the little box to reveal two sets of wedding rings. She realised then that she had been so surprised she had held her breath. Could this truly be a sign? Was Seriyuu blessing them with the possibility of them to both be happy and still protect Kutou from any danger? Was she dreaming or was this truly happening?

She was surprised when Shian lifted her by the waist and twirled her in a circle, but that surprise was soon replaced by pure joy and she laughed silently as he placed her back on the floor. She gasped when he leaned down to kiss her, it was a kiss unlike any they had ever shared, deeper and longer but at that moment Akahana did not care if they were in public. She placed her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with tears of joy falling down her cheeks. By the time their lips parted both were panting but Akahana smiled warmly at her beloved and dried her eyes with the sleeve of her kimono.

“With faith that Seriyuu has put you into my path, and provided still for the redemption of our world… yes, my rose. I will marry you.”

Akahana smiled warmly at Shian before she kissed his lips for a moment and whispered on his ear, “I love you, Teddy bear.” She then nodded at the monk as he had turned their way wondering if he should start officiating. She placed her hand on Shian’s arm and both walked to stand next to Shun and Chisaka. The monk then nodded for Jumiko to start playing the music and he then approached each couple giving them a bouquet of red flowers each. There was a string on each side of the bouquet, Shun had to hold one of the strings and Chisaka the other, same with Shian and Akahana. Then they had to bow at the altar and then turned to face one another and bow once again. The monk then offered a cup of wine each and beckoned them to link the arm and drink the wine.

Once that was done he asked the couples to lit some incense and offer it to their ancestors. Finally, the monk approached the couples with two pairs of scissors and two scarlet sachets. He then waited for each couple of cut a lock of their hair, bind them together and place them inside the little sachet. He sealed the safest and handed each to Shun and Shian, respectively. Finally he prayed a blessing to the newly wedded couples and asked them to take the rings out and place them on each other’s fingers. He then beckoned the couples to the other monk where they would be needed to sign their names into their marriages.

Akahana blushed lightly when Shian placed the ring on her finger and she did the same for him. Just as she signed her name where the monk at the registry indicated, however, a blue light enveloped her and the symbol “Angle” shone bright before settling on her right thigh, her eyes shone with the light of Seriyuu before the light disappeared and Akahana blinked, had she… was she… did Seriyuu just make her a Seishi? Was this his way of allowing her to stay in this world? If that was the case then she would gladly protect their new Miko with her life.