Chapter 2:

Dear Grandma,

I am hoping that by now you already know what is going on. So, I am not going to bore you with the unnecessary details. To cut a rather long story short, we found the book, you know, the one you told me about when I was a kid; The Book of the Four Gods. At the first glance it did not look anything special, just a really old book lying innocently on the floor.

And then …

Bam!

Lee was gone. Just like that, sucked inside the universe of the Four Gods.

I know, I know. We should have been more careful and steered clear of such hazardous material. But have you ever realized how unscientific your story sounded? It was just … impossible to believe in it.

Don't worry Grandma. This incident has succeeded in making a believer out of me.

So there you have it. Lee is in the book, playing out the part of the Suzaku no Miko. She has been woven into the story that is unfolding in its yellowing pages and in some weird illogical way I think that I am part of the story as well. Now that's not a very comforting thought.

I think that the only reason I was not dragged into the book and ended up as the Seiryuu no Miko was the fact that Seiryuu had been sealed because of the wish that the first Suzaku no miko (you-know-who) made.

However, that has changed now.

Seiryuu has been released from his mystical prison. I think it is a matter of time (half- an-hour to be precise, if I have succeeded in acing the probability problem) before I get drawn into the universe of the Four Gods as well. And when I find Lee I am going to kill her with my bare hands.

You may wonder why I did not come to you for aid and advice. I too have pondered on that problem quite a bit. What frightens me is the fact that I have no answer.

Hmm…

I must have some damaged brain cells.

So, here I am, sitting in your study, writing this stupid letter. I am going to leave this letter and the book on your table. Sooner or later you are bound to return home. And if you don't, then that delayed SMS I send you should make you return. If you don't find me here, then … you know where to look for me.

Just so you know I always wanted to have a really normal life.

Love,

Yang.

PS: You really should fix that window in your kitchen.

OoOoOoOoOoOoO

The sky was dark velvet and the ground scarlet silk. Long flickering fingers of orange-gold flames danced like nubile nymphets on the slippery ground, circling around the two men who stood in their midst, framed against their golden brilliance. A soft wind flirted with their tattered cloaks and the masses of un-kept hair that fell across their shoulders. They stood absolutely still and it appeared that Time stood still with them, waiting with bated breath and wide-eyed in anticipation of the events were about to unfold.

"It has been a long night." One of the warriors addressed the other.

"Yes, it has." The other one agreed with a short laugh.

"You must be tired."

"A little … yes."

"I think it is time for you to rest … my Lord Shinwa." The first warrior's lips curved up-wards in a cruel smile.

"I know." Shinwa's voice sounded rueful as the shadow of a smile touched his lips. "However, I can't let that bother me." The smile on his lips deepened. "After all, I am here to make the necessary arrangements so that you can have a long, uninterrupted …uh… rest."

The other warrior's frame seemed to stiffen a little. "I thank you for your concern my Lord." His voice, polite, cool and softer than the smoothest silk had only the barest tinge of mockery. "But I think I'll pass your flattering offer."

He moved like a streak of lightning cutting through the darkness, his sword clashing with Shinwa's iridescent blade, raising sparks as steel clashed with steel.

"But I insist." There was something savage about the smile that played around Shinwa's lips. "I assure you that it is not going to hurt … too much."

"I would like to reiterate what I said earlier." The warrior vaulted out of the reach of Shinwa's blade and landed softly on his feet away from him. "I am not interested."

He raised his hand. The tiny spark that played at his fingertips suddenly expanded filling the night with a blinding white-blue light …

'Damn it.'

'Damn it!' Hotohori repeated, swearing and blinking as he tried to readjust his vision to the sudden light.

As his world returned focus he found himself staring at an embroidered red drape.

'What the hell!' Hotohori sat up straight, bemused eyes drinking in his surroundings. Soft morning light crept into the room, filtering in through the lace curtains, forming curious patterns of light and shadow on the floor.

'That … was a dream.' Putting up a hand he brushed his wayward locks out of his face. 'But it seemed so real.'

Pushing back the drapes, he swung his legs off the bed. Moving to the window he flung the curtains aside, letting the morning light shine on his face, a small frown marring his smooth forehead.

'Who is Shinwa?' The frown deepened. 'Why does he keep haunting my dreams? And who is the other warrior?'

A soft breeze running playfully through the room brought to his ears the soft rustling secrets that were whispered between the dark leaves of the trees which, surrounded his quarters. But he could not find the answer to his question amongst the thousand hidden words that the wind poured into his ears.

'What the hell!' Hotohori turned from the window. 'Who the hell cares about a stupid dream?' His dark eyes hardened a bit. 'I have got much more important things to do, like thrust a spoke into somebody's love-life.' A growl sounded from somewhere deep within his self. 'Right after breakfast.'

Pulling a robe over himself, he decided to go in search of food. It was almost instinctively that his fingers closed over the sword of Suzaku as he exited the room.

It was only when he had left the room that he realized how late he had slept. Morning was in the process of handing over the reins to Day as the sun climbed higher up in the sky. Servants scuttled about their duty and the night guard had already been relieved by the soldiers who had guard duty during the next eight hours. They bowed respectfully as he passed by.

The frown which had disappeared from his face fought its way back to his expression. As he walked down the hall he was aware of a feeling of tension in the recesses of the palace. The last time he had felt coils of fear and anxiety curl around him this was when …

His eyes brightened as they alighted on a familiar figure. 'Menesku.'

He hastened his pace.

It was almost as if Menesku had sensed his presence that he turned to face him. For an infinitesimal small second his tired gray eyes smiled a little. With a curt nod he dismissed the two captains he was speaking to.

"Good Morning Menesku."

The ends of Menesku's lips twitched a little. "If you say so, my Lord."

"Whatever." Hotohori's eyes narrowed a little. "But really Menesku, are you …" Something in Menesku's orbs stopped him mid-sentence. For a while he felt that every ear in the hallway was trained on his words. "Hungry?"

"Very, my Lord."

"Good." Hotohori continued without batting an eyelid. "Then join me for breakfast in the Blue Room."

"Now?"

"Yes."

"Well ..."

It was then that Hotohori realized that he had still to freshen up. There was a spot of dull red on his cheeks.

"Right after I freshen up, of course." He ended with extreme dignity.

"Of course my Lord." The end of Menesku's lips twitched suspiciously.

"Good." Hotohori favored him with a look that promised retribution before turning and heading for the bath-house.

Menesku was waiting for him in the Blue Room. The subtle aroma of the fare spread on the table in front of him tickled Hotohori's senses.

At the sound of his feet Menesku looked up and brief smile played on his lips, an emotion which was reflected on his face as he occupied the empty seat on the opposite side of the table.

"I took the liberty of sending the servants away." Menesku poured him some tea. "There is something I wish to discuss with you."

Trust Menesku to talk about work on a fine morning like this.

"I thought so." Carefully he sipped the aromatic fluid. "But there is something I must ask you first. Are you sure you are …"

Once again the expression in Menesku's orbs stopped him.

'Careful my Lord.' His eyes whispered. 'Even walls have ears here.'

"…not interested in this delicious dimsum." He ended lamely.

"Perhaps later, my Lord." There was the shadow of an apology in Menesku's eyes. "But I would prefer to discuss the present situation first."

"We have a situation?"

"Not yet." There was a somber note in Menesku's voice. "Word has got out that Seiryuu has been released."

"And?"

"Even the mighty Prince of Konon together with his fearsome general Menesku failed to stop the terrible Black Warrior from releasing Seiryuu."

"I see."

"There is more."

"More?"

"Not only did they fail to stop him, the Black Warrior beat the living daylights out of them with his newly acquired power of Seiryuu."

"That's a lie." Hotohori's eyes flashed.

"So anyway." Menesku continued almost as if he had not heard Hotohori. "Our people are leaving in a constant state of fear that Kutou may attack at any moment."

"Nonsense." Hotohori snapped. "Keeah will not attack. She does not have the necessary resources to start a full scale invasion."

A momentary look of surprise flitted through Menesku's eyes. "That is true my lord. You know that and I know that. But they don't know that." He took a deep breath. "The point is my Lord, that our credibility has taken a beating."

"Elucidate Menesku."

"They are questioning our poweress as warriors and our ability to protect Konon from any prospective … intrusion."

Hotohori's eyes narrowed. "I see." His nostrils flared a little. "I do not like rumors Menesku. But I like the person who spreads these rumors even less." His black eyes locked into Menesku's gray ones. "So who can we thank for breeding this…dissent?"

"I could take quite a few names." Menesku peeled an apple with a sort of careful deliberation. "But sadly we can't touch any of them."

"That high placed huh?"

Menesku nodded. "Besides … disposing of them won't solve the problem." His eyes hardened. "People are sheep my Lord. In the end they will follow the better shepherd."

"Hmm." Hotohori purred. "I think we need to formulate an alternate story."

"Preferably a story, in which, we shall not be beaten to a pulp."

"How about a story in which the mighty Prince of Konon and his fearsome general Menesku beat the shi … err…living daylights out of the cowardly Black Warrior."

The end of Menesku's lips twitched. "Can I pulverize Suraco?"

"Feel free to add the intricate details."

"Hmm." Menesku looked thoughtful. "I think I like this story."

OoOoOoOoOoOoO

Where the magnificent ramparts of Ryuu-no-Kokoro melded with the countryside, a curious twilight zone existed, a place where the vast green fields were at war with the ever widening grip of the city. It was a place where palaces existed in symphony with run down shanties and perfectly manicured gardens existed in harmony with sprawling fields full of overgrown weeds.

Build outside the walled city, this settlement, like many others of its kind, had come up to supplement the needs of the city. It provided food to the teeming populace of the capital and shelter to the traveling peddlers who found the lodging inside the city too costly.

Thanks of the ever shifting nature of the settlement no one thought it strange when a carriage went tearing down in narrow, dusty roads, at a time when the day was well advanced into the night, tearing the silence apart under the thundering of hooves. Everyone went about their business, with a slight nod of their heads and an occasional whisper…

"Hooligans!"

The carriage continued on its breakneck path towards its destination, sweat shining on the coats of the two horses that pulled it. Taking a last turn through the winding pathway, it finally reached its destination, a house at one end of the settlement. There was nothing about it that would set it apart from its neighbors, a cluster of palatial buildings. Like the houses of most nobles, these were fortified with tall walls surrounding their perimeter, yet the chipped paint and the lack of maintenance showed that their owners had fallen upon evil times.

The driver alighted from his perch in the carriage and knocked on the door. It was a while before a bleary eyed servant opened the door.

"Lord Seiko!" There was a note of surprise in his voice, even as he desperately tried to blink the sleep out of his eyes.

"Move aside, fool." The driver swept aside the servant stepping inside the wide courtyard. "Stable the horses and tell your master that I wish to see him."

"But …but…" The servant stammered. "Lord Hitoshi is asleep."

"Then wake him." Seiko snapped irritatibly. "Now don't just stand like a there like a gawking moron. Move it." He began to walk towards the house, covering the distance with long strides. "And get somebody to bring me some food."

The servant bowed low. "Yes my Lord."

Seiko trod down the familiar path and pushed aside the door to enter a spacious room, whose walls though covered with faded tapestries still managed to exude a shadow of its past grandeur. Throwing the cloak aside he sat down on one of the cushions, stretching his long legs in front of him, yellow lamp light shining on the thinning brown hair on his head.

"Must you choose such an ungodly hour to visit?"

At the sound of the slightly irritated voice he looked up, pale eyes alighting on a man whose girth seemed to encompass the entire width of the doorway.

"Hitoshi." There was a smile on his thin lips. "You look well."

Ruddy cheeks dimpled. "Do I?" Then the sparkle in the blue eyes dimmed. "Alas! Business has been reduced to a mere trickle. How an honest trader is to make his living is a thought that is reducing me to skin and bones."

"I can see that." Seiko rolled his eyes, pointing to an empty cushion. "Sit."

Hitoshi wobbled into the room and settled his enormous girth on the cushion.

"So what brings you here?"

"Business."

"You know how the mention of work tires me… but…" Hitoshi yawned. "Let us go and inspect the goods then."

"By all means." Seiko got up. "You know how expensive these goods are. So, I hope that all your servants are not as tardy as the fool who opened the door for me."

Hitoshi waved an indulgent hand and led him towards the stable, pausing slightly at the door as he ran an eye over the dimly lit interior.

"Seiko, you have been busy."

"Hnn." Seiko squeezed past him to stand by a row of shivering prisoners who had been lined across the wall. "Standard fare all … and too much trouble …" He bend down and pulled up a girl, dragging her in front with him. "But occasionally …one strikes gold." He wrenched off the sack that covered her face revealing her visage in the flickering light of the lamp.

"Gold …indeed." The ruddy cheeks dimpled again as Hitoshi put a finger under her chin and turned her face upwards for his inspection. "She looks rather exotic. A foreigner?"

"Possibly." Seiko ran a hand though the dirty gold hair which framed her face. "She should fetch a high price."

Blue eyes glared ineffectively at him.

"Ah she has fire too. She should most definitely fetch a high price." Hitoshi chuckled. "Is she untouched?"

"I think so." He thrust her into the arm of a waiting lackey.

"I could check it for you." Hitoshi's eye wandered over the girl, mentally stripping her of her clothes as he took in her youthful features.

"Damaged goods don't sell Hitoshi." Seiko rolled his eyes as he turned to the waiting men. "Go lock her up with the others." Moving forward he linked his arm though Hitoshi's leading him away. "Forget that one my friend. I will let you keep any other that catches your fancy."

"Hnn." Hitoshi allowed himself to be led away. "I will take you up on that offer Seiko. Might I keep a boy this time? I have often found that they are more succulent."

"As you wish." He shrugged. "Now let's get that supper."

For a while they walked silently. Then Hitoshi spoke again.

"Seiko you must arrange for these goods to be moved quickly."

"What? Is your treasury is no longer safe?" Seiko raised an eyebrow. "Or have you decided to turn respectable?"

"Sheng has been snooping around more than usual."

"Sheng?" A soft swift swear escaped him. "That old fool."

"That old fool has Princess Keeah's ear. And I am sure you know of the other person who sits in the shadow of the throne."

Despite himself Seiko could not restrain a shudder. "Suraco." He mouthed the word with extreme loathing.

"Fortunately, Sheng has a tendency to overlook what is right under his nose." Hitoshi's voice was heavily laced with sarcasm. "Suraco however, is an entirely different story."

"I know." By this time they had reached the main building. "But isn't Suraco …"

"The Princess has returned to the capital. Suraco naturally is with her."

"I see. Tomorrow we will discuss how to transfer these goods to the other store in the country. For now…" Seiko gestured towards the table. "Join me for dinner."

"Seiko." Hitoshi sighed contentedly. "You have just made me a very happy man."

OoOoOoOoO

Zori pouted, sighing a little as she surveyed her profile on the reflecting surface of the ornate mirror she held in her lily-like fingers. No fault could be found with the way she dressed her hair, and the painted face framed in a border of soft locks arranged in deliberate disarray couldn't be more perfect. With a frown she lowered the mirror, a crease marring the smoothness of her forehead.

"You look a little worried my lady."

Zori looked at the wrinkled face of her handmaiden, her eyes impassive. "I am not worried Suila." She yawned delicately. "Just bored."

Suila offered no comment, choosing instead to returned several items of scattered jewellery to their rightful place inside the ivory vanity. Zori yawned again, her fingers idly playing with the stiff silk of her gown, eyes distant.

"My Lady." Suila's voice beckoned her back to reality. "You have a visitor."

One magnificent eyebrow arched and a brief smile played on the luscious lips. Then Zori got up in a rustle of skirts.

"Lady Lee." Her voice was surprised as she moved forward, her extended arms meeting and holding Lee's hands firmly. "I thought …" She took a deep breath to calm herself, smiling warmly at her guest. "How are you? Won't you please come in?"

"I am fine Zori." Lee smiled shyly. "I hope I have not come at a bad time."

"Really Lady Lee." Zori shook her head, still smiling as she drew Lee inside. "I sincerely hope that there is no need for such formality amongst us." She pointed towards a cushion. "Won't you please sit down?"

Lee nodded, taking the offered seat.

Zori sat in the seat opposite to her. "Suila." She addressed her handmaiden. "Please arrange for some refreshment."

Suila bowed deeply before soundlessly leaving the room.

"So Lady Lee…" Zori turned towards Lee, to find that she was staring at her.

Their eyes met for an instant before Lee flushed and averted her orbs.

"Sorry. It's just that …" Lee's voice was a little hesitant. "You … You look so beautiful."

'Of course I do, you silly girl.' She sighed, allowing a small demure smile to grace her lips. "I do?" Her voice sounded a little wistful. "Thank you."

"Zori …" Lee had not missed the slight inflection in her voice. "What is wrong?"

"Nothing." She sighed. "It's just that … General Menesku… He looks so tired and pale these days." Zori blushed a little and then, for a moment there was a stricken look in her eyes. "Forgive me Lady Lee. I … I …" She bit her lips, trying to compose herself.

"You … you … really do like Menesku." There was a touch of wonder in Lee's voice. Then she smiled. "Don't worry. He is fine now."

"Now… Was he injured?"

"Umm… Uh…" Lee paled, before collapsing into a series of disjointed sentences.

"Forgive me." Zori cut in, her voice calm. "I did not mean to pry." There was a lone tear that sparkled like a diamond in the corner of her eyes, yet when she looked at Lee a bright smile played on her lips. "Let us talk of something else."

Lee lowered her head. "I am sorry Zori." Her voice was heavy with guilt. "Menesku swore me into secrecy."

'Is that so?' She smiled inwardly. 'Interesting.'

"That's all right Lady Lee." She smiled at her. "Don't let it worry you any more."

"Hnn…" Even though Lee smiled, the guilt had not completely disappeared from her eyes. "But Zori, I think that if you really like Menesku then you should tell him." She blurted out suddenly.

"Tell him?" Zori's eyes widened, her color appearing whiter under her paint. "Lady Lee, you must never repeat what you said here today."

"But …"

"I am here to serve the Emperor of Konon. To look at another man, let alone desire him …is treachery."

"That's…" For a while Lee seemed to be searching for words. "Stupid. It's not like you can control who you fall in love with." She frowned heavily. "And besides, even if Hotohori came to know about your feelings, he would not hold it against you. I have told you before he is not that kind of a person."

"And I have told you before that I am pretty sure that Lord Hotohori is not even aware of my existence." She smiled mistily. "And I know that he would not hold my feelings against me nor will he take any advantage of me." She paused, averting her eyes. "But this is the path I chose and I am proud to serve the Emperor in any way I can. So, please don't repeat what you said here today."

"Uhh… All right. It will be our little secret."

"Thank you Lady Lee." She laid a warm hand on Lee's arm. 'Now wasn't that a touching speech?'

For a while they were silent and then Lee spoke abruptly.

"Hotohori is very worried these days."

"I have noticed. My Lord is rather absentminded these days" Zori agreed

"He is always …busy."

'Does he ignore you Suzaku no Miko?'

"It's just these stupid rumors. Hotohori is in super damage control mode, I guess." Lee's words ended in a small laugh.

'Rumors? Hmm…Keep talking sweetheart.'

"Menesku calls it propaganda." Lee continued a small frown on her face. "He says that Keeah is deliberately adding fire to this rumor mill in order to demoralize Konon."

'Now that is a …interesting and effective strategy indeed.'

"But I still don't understand why Hotohori and Menesku need work themselves to skin and bones over this."

"It is the nature of people to talk." Her voice was soothing. "However, eventually, the truth does come out." She did not miss the flash of guilt that passed over Lee's face. Her eyes widened. 'So…that's how it is.'

"Its not like Seiryuu is really released." There was a quiver of suppressed laughter in her voice, which promptly faded at the look on Lee's face. "Lady Lee…"

"Umm…" There was a very fake smile on Lee's face. "Exactly. It's not like Seiryuu is really released."

"Lady Lee." Her voice was an urgent entreaty. "You know you can trust me." Her hand tightened reassuringly over Lee's palm. 'Yes. You know you can trust me.'

"I know." Lee bit her lips; there was a troubled expression in her eyes. "It's just that…" Her voice dropped to a whisper. "Seiryuu was released. We couldn't stop them."

For a brief instant a dark figure, painted in shades of the black night and silvery moonlight flashed across her inner eye and could feel a sliver of something hot race through her veins.

She achieved a gasp. "No! Was he there?" She shuddered and closed her eyes. "The Black Warrior!"

"No." Lee both sounded and looked miserable. "It was horrible …that island."

"Was it?"

"Umm…" She understood that Lee was ready to retreat behind her shell once more.

"Tell me your story Lady Lee." She insisted, ruthlessly pushing aside the barriers Lee tried to put up. "Lighten the burden of your soul."

"But…"

"I know that you promised Menesku that you will not breathe a word of this to anyone. But…" She smiled. "Sometimes, you need to entrust your tale to a friend. Trust me." She had understood that Lee had began to waver and pressed onward. "Trust me." She repeated. "It will be our little secret."

"Well, you see…" Lee began.

She leaned forward, her eyes concerned.

'Yes, my dear Suzaku no Miko, tell me everything. I am convinced that it will be a most entertaining story.'

OoOoOoOoO

The soft, lyrical notes of a guzheng filled the hallway, mixing with the haunting scent of the chrysanthemum blossoms which bordered it. The shy wind, peeping in through the lace curtains came across a scene which seemed to come straight out of some exquisite painting. A golden haired man sat by the window, his long white fingers playing over the strings with absent minded ease, green eyes distant. Reclined on the cushions not far from him a dark haired girl sat, apparently absorbed in the haunting melody. Only the way her fingers fiddled with the intricate ivory fan she held betrayed the fact that her attention was perhaps, elsewhere.

However, to Lord Sheng it appeared that he had unwittingly intruded into something private and … intimate. The golden haired man seemed to have become aware of his presence because his fingers stilled over the silver threads and the gurgling fountain of music ceased abruptly, managing as usual to unsettle him by fixing those unsmiling poisonous green eyes on his face.

The girl too had become aware of his presence at the doorway.

"Lord Sheng." Her voice, soft and gentle seemed to break the spell that the emerald eyes wove around him. "I trust you are in good health."

He bowed. "I am well, Princess."

"I am glad." She gestured at the numerous empty cushions which lined the room. "Please take a seat."

"Thank you." He bowed again, accepting her offer.

"Would you like some tea Lord Sheng?" Even as she addressed him thus, she ordered a handmaiden to bring in the said article with an elegant wave of her hand.

"I would like it very much Princess." For an instant his eyes met the green eyes again and he thought that he read sardonic amusement in them.

"Lord Shurei informs me that you have something of a very urgent nature that you wish to convey to me."

"Yes my Lady." Carefully he brought out a rolled out parchment from the folds of his cloak. "But perhaps before that, you would like to read this."

Her slender fingers closed over the parchment.

"This report was submitted to me by Captain Chou." He explained further.

"Captain Chou." She murmured, carefully unrolling the scroll and running an eye over it. "I have heard that he has recently sired a fourth son. How is the child?"

"Very well my Lady." He was hard pressed to keep the stammer out of his voice. Her knowledge of such minute and inconsequential details never failed to startle him. 'The Empress of Kutou has a thousand eyes … one would think that after so many years I would have gotten used to it.'

"Hnn…" She smiled at him but he realized that it was merely perfunctory and that her main attention was absorbed in Captain Chou's report.

For a while none of them spoke and the long fingers which had stilled over the strings of the guzheng started to move again, the soft notes filling the room once more.

Sheng waited, trying not to be lulled into complacency by the haunting music that wrapped itself around him. Watching the Princess's bowed head over the parchment he thought that Keeah had never looked lovelier. For a brief moment he wondered whether it was by design or by the singular intuition all females exhibited that Keeah had chosen to seat herself in front of the large window, with the blue sky and the spray of white blossoms painted across it acting as a perfect foil to her beauty.

Suddenly he became aware that he too was being watched and tried not to fidget under the observation of the emerald orbs. Consciously wiping all emotions off his face he forced himself to look into the green depths all of a sudden feeling that his deepest secrets was on display.

"Lord Suraco."

Sheng could not stop the wave of relief that filled his body as the princess's voice seemed to break the spell once again as the green eyed boy turned towards her.

"I believe you will find this interesting, my Lord." There was a half smile on her lips as she handed him Captain Chou's report.

Sheng could not suppress the barest tinge of irritation when he heard the Princess address Suraco thus.

'And I thought that I would have gotten used to thatas well.' He fought to keep his face blank. 'A boy … without an iota of noble blood in him … my Lord indeed!'

"This … is serious." Suraco's voice was cold when he completed his perusal of the scroll. "Your majesty." He turned at the Princess. "With your permission I would like to investigate this matter myself."

The stab of irritation in his gut became more pronounced, now mixed with a liberal dose of anger.

'The brat …'

"Calm down Lord Suraco." The Princess's sweet voice interrupted his inner tirade. "I am sure that Lord Sheng has already thoroughly investigated the matter. Let us hear what he has to say first."

Sheng felt some of his anger abate at her timely intervention. But when his eyes met Suraco's deliberately expressionless orbs he had no problem in reading the skepticism that he hid behind them.

'Brat, one of these days you will go too far…' His voice was however calm. "Your Highness, I have investigated this matter to the best of my ability."

The intricate fan flared in a flamboyant flourish and laughing dark eyes surveyed him over the feathers.

"Lord Sheng." He thought he heard a quiver of laughter in her voice. "You are too modest. Shall we discuss what you found …" She gestured toward the tray the handmaiden had just put down on the table beside her. "Over tea?"

He inclined his head in assent, accepting her proposal and realizing with a flicker of detached admiration the subtlety with which Keeah proceeded to diffuse the tension which nearly always sprung up whenever he and Suraco were in the same room.

Raising the cup to his lips he inhaled the elusive aroma of jasmine wafting up from it before continuing.

"Your majesty I will reiterate the fact that I have tried to investigate this matter to the best of my abilities." He paused, taking a while to formulate his words. "But it is not unknown to you that a lot of money is involved in this trade and some of the people involved in this wield considerable influence."

"Of that, I am aware." Keeah sighed. "Pray continue Lord Sheng."

Sheng nodded, wondering if he saw Keeah's eyes harden a little.

"Despite our best attempts to eradicate this problem, the traders still manage to evade us through a series of middlemen who transfer the goods from one place to another even before our people have a chance to intercept them." He paused. "I have every reason to suspect that the presence of such agents in the vicinity of the capital as well as in the capital itself. I only wish to be given the permission to conduct my investigation in this channel."

"Certainly, Lord Sheng." Keeah smiled and it was not for the first time that Sheng noticed the flash of steel behind the demurely lowered lashes. "Scum such as these must be brought to justice. I wish you success in your endeavor." There was a slight snap as she shut the fan. "Lord Suraco will assist you."

It was with an effort that Sheng bit back the words which rose to his lips and keep his face blank.

"Very well your Majesty." It was hard to incline his head. "It will be an honor to work with Lord Suraco."

He had tried to keep the sarcasm out of his voice when he mouthed the word lord but realized his failure when Suraco lowered his head and with a gleam of amusement in his eyes murmured.

"You are too humble Lord Sheng." His voice was as smooth as silk. "I can assure you, the pleasure is all mine."

OoOoOoOoO

As the dull grating sound of the heavy door opening reverberated through the room, the occupants of its dimly lit interior sat up startled, their bodies suddenly stiff and as the door frame began to swing open they scrambled backwards, instinctively trying to meld themselves in the darkness, hoping that the shadows could somehow make them disappear.

For a moment large silhouettes outlined in the light of the torches held in their burly hands stood framed across the open doorway before they thrust someone into the dim interior and then the door closed again with a clang.

The sound of the door closing seemed to release the inhabitants from their petrified state and curious eyes began to survey their newest tenant, a girl who appeared to be not more than fifteen springs old. Dull light glimmered a little on the dirty golden hair which framed her face as she sat on the cold floor on which she had been unceremoniously dumped, examining the fresh bruise on her skin.

"Are you all right?"

The question was uttered in a soft and slightly musical voice but there had been little concern in it and it was not very difficult to categorize it as a conversational gambit.

"Yes." The answer was sharp and clipped.

"Oh." The girl who had addressed her moved forward before sitting down on her haunches in front of her. "Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"Hmm." The girl ran a light eye over the bruises that lined her body. "Are you thirsty? Do you want some water?"

"No."

"Some food?"

"No."

"Are you always this articulate?"

"Occasionally."

"You really don't want to have this conversation, do you?"

"Correct."

"Very well." The girl sighed, straightening and there was a shadow of a smile on her lips. "My name is Cho. If you feel like …socializing…you can come over to my corner." She pointed at a side. "Over there."

For a while blue eyes met and held soft brown ones and then she nodded.

"Sure." She did not sound too eager.

Cho favored her with a slight inclination of her head before walking back to the corner.

The blue eyed girl sighed a little, abandoning her investigation of her wounds. For a while she sat huddled, knees drawn up to her chin, sightlessly staring into the darkness. Slowly determination made its way back to her orbs and she straightened herself. With a sort of conscious volition she tried to straighten her hair and smooth out the wrinkles in her dress before walking towards Cho.

"Hello." Her voice was a little hesitant as she held out a hand. "I am sorry for my earlier rudeness. I was just …My name is Yang."

"Yang." Cho repeated the name thoughtfully. "There is no need for an apology." A dry chuckle escaped her lips. "Getting captured and thrown into a dark cellar is enough to make anyone crabby." She patted the seat beside her. "Sit down."

Despite herself she her lips curve upwards. "Thank you." She nodded taking the offered seat.

"You know, I am kind of glad that you decided to …err… socialize." Cho leaned back into the wall. "Conversation is the only thing that keeps you sane in this place."

"Oh." Elegant eyebrows shot upwards. 'Is that why you decided to talk to me?'

"Unfortunately, it is also the only thing we can do here." Cho drew her knees up to her chin. "And soon that too seems like a …burden." For a while she was silent, as if trying to formulate what she wanted to say next. "And then all we do is sit in our corner and wallow in self-pity."

"Is that what you were doing?"

"Yes, well I was… until I saw you. Then I realized that there might be hope for my sanity yet."

"Ah."

"Together, I hope that you and I can keep our wits together until we are rescued …or sold."

"That's … comforting." Yang was beginning to doubt Cho's sanity.

"Yes isn't it." Cho yawned, running a hand through her unkept hair. "Now I know that this isn't a very … welcome subject to start a conversation with but it always does the trick. How were you captured?"

'Stupid Lee. Stupid luck.' Yang's lips were pursed into a thin line. "I was going to visit my friend …" She let the sentence hang.

Fortunately Cho seemed to get the gist of it.

"Surprised huh?" She sighed. "Our roads are not as safe as the Empress would have wanted it to be."

"Ah."

"Which makes me wonder, why were you traveling alone?" Cho ran a speculative eye over Yang. "You don't look like a peasant. And you clothes …"

'Oh my. My guise falters already? I thought that I could successfully blend in with the natives. Damn that stupid shopkeeper. Give me a costume for a cosplay where I play some stupid character in ancient China…What the hell was I thinking? ' Yang flushed, flinging up a hand. "Erm… Could we change the subject entirely? It was not very pleasant …getting here, you know."

"Oh I know." Cho agreed readily. "However, it used to be much worse before."

"Worse?" Yang's eyes widened.

"Yes, because during my grandfather's time, slavery was legal in Kutou. But then there wasn't much of a law those days." Cho's eyes narrowed as she turned at Yang. "Are you a noble?"

"I …uh…"

"You must be." Cho asserted. "Being sheltered as you were, I am not surprised that you are ignorant of such facts." A dry chuckle escaped her lips. "Were you going to the capital?"

"I was…" Yang nodded. 'Trying to get to the capital of Konon.' She looked at Cho. "Why do you ask?"

"Well, I hope you don't take offense to my saying this but it's a typical destination for most nobles" She shrugged. "Especially now, that the Empress has returned to the capital."

"Oh."

Cho moved forward, her voice down to a conspiratorial whisper. "Most noble families, with sons, of course, keep hoping that she would choose a husband from amongst them." A dry chuckle escaped her lips. "That hope has grown decidedly dim these days … What am I saying? You are a noble. Surely, you would more about this than me?"

Yang hoped that Cho would turn her awfully expectant eye elsewhere.

'Damn. How the hell am I supposed to…' She tried to reflect Cho's conspiratorial smile. "Well, you know how it is. She is a Princess, with a great, big dowry…" She let her sentence hang. 'Why the hell is everybody interested in the love life of the rich and the mighty?'

"Naturally they can't help but talk, behind her back of course."

Yang understood that Cho expected her to take up the reins of the conversation. "Well… she is a rather …radical person after all." She ran her tongue over her dry lips, desperately praying her guise would not slip. 'God! Could we please change the topic now? I am not noble and I don't know shit about court politics.'

"That's one way of defining her." Cho agreed, leaning back into the wall.

For a while both of them were silent and then Cho spoke again.

"Commoners such as myself don't really care about who sits on the throne as long as we have enough to eat and the king ensures that our villages are not raided every other day."

"That's reasonable."

"I know." Cho agreed and the familiar dry chuckle escaped her lips. "Well, Kutou isn't as lawless as it used to be in the past but things like these." She waved a hand around. "Keep reminding us that that a lot remains to be desired."

Yang sighed, resting down her head on her knees. "I can see what you mean." She sighed. "Cho, would you mind if I ask you a question? How did you end up here?"

For a while Cho was silent, almost as if she was searching for words. "Life was hard at the village, with the war and all. My uncle was finding it... difficult to feed two extra mouths. So I and my brother hit the road, hoping to find some employment in the capital." She paused. "And the next thing we know, we were here. But let's not talk about that. Like you said, it was not pleasant, getting here."

"I am sorry for …"

"There is nothing to be sorry about." Cho shrugged. "Except for ourselves that is. You should rest for a while. I will wake you, when they bring us food."

"Okay." Yang agreed, she really needed some time to be alone, to think and process the information she had gleaned. 'Lee, look what you have gotten me into this time.' Her eyes began to close of their own volition. 'I swear, when I find you, I am going to kill you.'

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