Shizuru followed Yohko as they made their way to the ambassador's chamber. The walls were filled with designs of flowers, most likely etched in gold. The young researcher grabbed the older woman's hand and stopped her suddenly, when the two were in a private stopping point.
"Yohko...please tell me what's going on."
Averting her eyes, the older woman looked at the designs that lined the wall and gave up with quiet resignation when the crimson eyes refused to lower their gaze.
"Shizuru..."
Neither woman spoke for a moment until Shizuru let go of the older woman's hand.
"Did I do something wrong? Please tell me...please. I have been by your side for so many years...please."
When the words reached the older woman's ears she turned away and looked forward, refusing to be honest with her younger companion.
"I made a breakthrough. I can't tell you how. The ambassador wants to know we found the gene or else he will cut our funding. I will give him what he wants. Just play along and don't ask question-"
Shizuru grabbed her arm and turned her, forcing her to look her in the eyes.
"Not good enough. Tell me what is going on."
The two stared at each for a few minutes, neither saying a word.
"Natsuki doesn't have a gene that makes her the way she is. This is a problem. The gene that some have marketed throughout the years has been nothing but... well nothing."
Pulling away, the older woman gazed absently at the designs on wall again.
"The media in recent years has been scrutinizing the scapegoats of the world. The kingdom hired us to find backup for all they did, and I plan to give that to them."
Pausing, the older woman closed her eyes.
"However, as a researcher all I ever wanted was the truth. The truth I will find. Now stop asking questions and play along."
Yohko turned on her heels, eyes ablaze, and made her way once more down the hallway.
"Natsuki was your classmate once. Everyone turned on her...just because someone in charge told them to."
Shizuru's steps slowed and she lowered her head, a grimace making it's way onto her perfect mask.
"Forgive me Shizuru...please forgive me."
