Chapter 27

Kaya's Mansion, Kaya's Backyard

September 18, 1663

Kuro stood up, dusting a small amount of dirt from his knees from kneeling in the soil. In front of him, four rows of twenty seeds each lined up like obedient soldiers ready for war. With a small smile, he began to water the parched earth, humming lightly under his breath. He could practically envision the small blue-white flowers popping up through the soil later on, perhaps in late February or early March.

He didn't notice Kaya was standing behind him, a smile on her face as she watched him water the plants. Without warning she embraced him from behind. Out of surprise, Kuro dropped the watering can, and the water inside splashed up all over his front. He was about to turn and yell when he realized it was Kaya who had startled him.

He reached around behind him, patting her on the shoulder. If it was Kaya…