Mai knew, looking back on her life, that she was extremely fortunate to be where she was today. As she entered the Great Hall behind the prince, she knew it was a great honour to be part of the consort.

The Great Hall of the Hara Castle was renowned for its beauty. Glass stained windows filled the stone walls. A story could be read if each window was taken in its turn. The stonework resembled one smooth sheet, with all joins invisible to the untrained eye. The wooden floor had been laid like a mosaic, thousands of tiny pieces joined to create a work of art.

Mai's jaw fell open. She glanced around to see that John's face had also expressed his wonder. This surprised her. She knew John had travelled a lot. So for him to be so much in awe…

If Yasuhara, her employer, master and best friend of many years, had been surprised by the room, nothing of it showed in his features. He had complete control of himself, as per usual.

"Welcoming the royal prince Yasuhara of XXX," an announcer called.

Yasuhara took his bow to their hosts, who stood on a platform at one end of the Great Hall. The King and Queen stood a little way behind their daughter, the Princess Masako, Yasuhara's betrothed.

Mai studied the princess. Her beauty was second to none, not a single hair had strayed out of its place. The princess smiled, yet Mai did not think it extended to her eyes.

As their procession approached the platform, the princess walked down the steps to greet them. She offered her hand to Yasuhara, who kissed it lightly.

"Your highness," he said. "I am pleased to find you in good health."

"Likewise," she replied. "We've been waiting for this day a long time."

Yasuhara sighed.

"Indeed we have."

"May I introduce you to my parents," Masako went on.

The introduction were made, yet Mai could not bring herself to focus on them. So many new things caught her eyes around the room. The different styles of dress. The pale skin of the people of this land. Mai had never considered herself tanned until this day.

"...And this is my personal seamstress, Mai Taniyama."

"Are you wearing her work now?" Masako asked.

"Indeed."

"Delightful."

Mai curtsied at the compliment.

Author's note: So I think this was gonna end up with Yasune and a mai x naru x masako triangle but I have no idea...