Chapter 8: Fellowship


June 16th. Near 6 PM.

(Near Takeru's House.)

[Kageyuki]


I slowly walk on the streets of Hiiragi, feeling the pleasant warmness of summer starting to appear in our weather. At long last I got my leave time from the Guard. According to Takahisa-sama, Takeru has been left in charge of Col. Kazora's daughter. He said Takeru seemed happy to be with her when he visited the House on the weekends… Even if he refused to tell me why that happens.

But this is Col. Tsukuyomi's daughter we're talking about. How on earth is she taking care of him? She… hasn't been harsh on him, right?

As if I have any right to complain, I left Takeru all alone in the end.

Unable to lift my face off the street, I kept walking back home. As I got closer, I could see some lights were on. I licked my lips as my finger halted it's way onto the doorbell. Looking down again, I took one deep breath. What am I even going to tell him? I can't stay for more than a week, I'll have to leave him alone again.

Even if Miho asked me to keep working… Even if Takahisa-sama says he will look after him… Is this the right thing to do?

I ring the doorbell after hesitating for another while. Soon, footsteps reach my ears. The door opens to reveal a young woman with turquoise eyes, like those of the Colonel, dressed in a simple crimson and white dress.

"Good evening. I suppose you are Kageyuki Shirogane-san?"

"Ah, yes. That's me. Um… You're Col. Tsukuyomi's daughter, right?"

"Yes, that is the case." The woman then did a short bow towards me. "My name is Maya Tsukuyomi. I have been entrusted with the duty of looking after your son."

"Yes, I was told. Is Takeru-"

"Please, do come in. I was preparing dinner, it will be done soon." She stepped to a side, making way for me to enter.

I bow to her and come in, taking my shoes off at the entrance. A strong scent reaches my nose as I walk into the kitchen. I don't know what she's making but it smells good.

"So… Tsukuyomi-san, where is Takeru?"

"Maya-san will suffice, Kageyuki-san."

"No, you're a noble. I can't use your name, and you don't have to address me so formally either." I say scratching my head as I give her a small bow.

"Please, I am working for you as of now. There is no need to show such stiffness in your words, Kageyuki-san."

"Um… Are you testing me, maybe?"

"Testing you?" She looked straight at me as she tapped her glasses.

"Yes, your father did something similar to this when I had just arrive to the Guard." Once I relaxed and spoke in my usual way he rebuked me and told me I wasn't fit to be on the Guard.

"Do forgive me, but I am not my father." Despite not using the same words, her stare is as imposing as his though. "And I am used to Takeru's speech by now. I doubt you could be worse."

"…I see. How has he been? Where is he?"

"Oh, he should be upstairs. I shall be finishing dinner, please feel free to go to him. He has missed you much in these months." She doesn't seem to be a bad person… But I can't tell what she thinks behind that poker face.

"Alright, I'll be going. And… Uuh… Thank you for looking after him, Tsukuyomi-san. I really appreciate it."

"Sigh… No thanks are needed, I am merely performing the duty that was entrusted to me. And as I said, Maya-san will suffice."

"Okay?" I didn't think she would be so frontal. "So, he's upstairs in his room?"

"Yes, we can talk at large after dinner. In the meantime, please do go to Takeru's side." She gave me another small bow then turned around and went to the kitchen.

She… doesn't seem to mind being here as much as I thought she would. Or maybe she's just being polite. I leave my bag on a chair and go up the stairs. Going to his room, feeling my heart pounding against my chest, I manage to grab the doorknob and open the door.

"Takeru?" I slowly enter the room.

…And I'm met with nothing.

He isn't here. His bed is neatly done, so I can tell he isn't under the sheets. The room isn't so big to give him a hiding place. I look under his bed, but he also isn't there and he also isn't hidden in his wardrobe. And if he was hiding for whatever reason, he would have… come to greet me.

…Takeru isn't here.

My heart starts beating faster, now for a different reason. Entering into alert mode as if I had just heard the 991 Alarm, I rush down the stairs into the kitchen.

"Tsukuyomi-san, what is the meaning of this?!"

"Eh? Excuse me, whatever is the matter?"

"Don't play dumb! Where is Takeru?!"

"As I said, he's in his-"

"He isn't there. His room was empty!" And he would have heard me coming home if he was in the bathroom.

"Huh? What do you mean?" She moved away from the pots, narrowing her brows.

"You heard me. Takeru isn't on his room. Where is he?"

"He isn't in… For the Holy Emperor, don't tell me he…" Tsukuyomi rushed past me as she frowned.

I followed her and we wound up on the door that leaded to the backyard. It was unlocked, but she closed it immediately. She sighed and seemed to be rubbing her forehead.

"Takeru, why you… How could I forget to lock the door?"

"Tsukuyomi-san, where is Takeru? What is the-"

"Please rest assured, Kageyuki-san." She turned around and tapped her glasses, still frowning. "Whenever this happens, it means Takeru went to the Kagami's house. Forgive me, when I received a call that you would be coming home I was in the middle of picking up the laundry. I seem to have forgotten to lock the door." She gave me a bow, hands joined as she did.

"…Why? Why does Takeru runs off to Haruna-san's house? Is he not pleased to be here?" Takeru never ran away while Miho was here. Why would he… What is she doing to him?!

"Because he's bored."

"…Bored?"

"Yes, I cannot tend to him while I am cooking or working. So, from time to time, he goes to the Kagami's house to pass the time until dinner is ready after he does his homework. Though it has been a long time since he did so without me noticing." She again tapped her glasses as her tone took that severe edge the Colonel makes all the time.

"So Takeru leaves to Haruna-san's house when he's bored? Have you not scolded him when he does it?"

"Of course I have, but I believe you would know how stubborn he is." Well, yeah. Takeru can be very hard to deal with when an idea gets in his head. "I will not complain about your reaction, considering how you must worry for him. That being said, I find your scowl and words towards me most insulting." She took a step forward, folding her arms. "I have been taking proper care of Takeru. I would like you to know that his grades have improved much since I have been supervising his lessons. You do not need to doubt me so, I know Father can be most abrasive even when unnecessary, however I am not such a hostile person. Your son is in good hands, you can trust in me."

"…Sorry, I shouldn't have screamed at you." Not when she's the one taking care of him and I'm the one who's never around. I hang my head, sighing the tension out.

"No apologies are needed. Please do go bring him here. I shall-"

"Can I ask you something, Tsukuyomi-san?"

"…Yes, you can. Though, I believe I said you could simply refer to me as Maya-san." I ignore her complaining and exhale loudly, scratching my nose.

"Why did you accept?"

"Accept what?"

"Taking care of my son. I know many nobles dislike us commoners, I know this task must be something like a punishment for someone of your station. Why did you stay with Takeru?"

Both Tsukuyomis in the Guard are nothing short of the stereotype of the old prideful and stoic men. Being the daughter of one of them, having been raised as the member of a Shinpan House… What reason could she have to stay here? What did Takahisa-sama do to have her accept the orders and to stay here for so long?

She closes her eyes and remains silently standing there for a while. Barely opening them, she takes her glasses off to rub her eyes and brush some hair out of her face. Once she put them on again, she directs a calmer gaze my way.

"At first, I was most upset at this turn of events. To be frank, had Yohime-sama not been the one to give me the order I would have refused to be the caretaker of your son." She then brings a hand to her ear, playing with her hair. "However, in my stay here I learned many valuable lessons. I know my Father and Uncle have most assuredly been harsh to you due to your roots, however I realized there is no need to show such hostilities to my peasant fellows. Your son… was most kind to me when I was feeling dejected at this task I was made to perform."

"Takeru? What did he do?"

"He… praised me and remained by my side." Why did she stop for a second there? "Your son is a very kind person, and even if his manners do leave much to be desired I do not regret staying here. He also has aided my own sister on his visits to the Main House."

"Talking about that, why are you two going there?"

"Oh, Takeru said he wanted to learn kendo so he practices there on the weekends. I believe you had left him a wooden blade for that purpose?"

"…Ah, that's true." After Miho died I completely forgot about that present we gave him. "So… So you're getting along with him?"

"Yes, to the point that he refers to me as his sister."

"Huh?! Really? Sorry, he's just a kid. Takeru doesn't-" She extends a hand, her expression relaxed.

"It is alright. I do not mind it. Again, I am not troubled by his usual demeanor. You can trust in me keeping him safe while you work, Kageyuki-san."

"So… Until when will you stay with him?" She suddenly furrowed her brows.

"I was assigned as Takeru's retainer. I shall stay with him until the day you finish serving in the Guard. For that reason I was given a computer and a secure connection to aid my fellows in their work back at the Main House while Takeru is at school. I believe Takeru is comfortable with me as his caretaker. Has someone suggested the idea of replacing me, by any chance?" She took a step forward, not letting go of my gaze as if she were an angry crab.

"No, no one did. I just… assumed you would want to return to your duties in the Guard."

"Well, I can still do some of them while I am here. Worry not, your son is in good hands." She's being honest, since she got really pissed off at my last words. So she really… is taking care of Takeru well.

"I see… Thanks… Thanks, Tsukuyomi-san."

"Please, Maya-san is enough."

"No, I'm… really thankful to you. Sorry for having screamed at you."

"It is alright. Please go for Takeru." I nod at her and go to the door.

She really is very patient. Sigh… What an idiot I am, screaming like that. She even said she's willing to stay here with him until I can finish my active duties on the Guard, whenever that is. And… I don't feel that rejection her father has in his words from hers.

Going back to the street, I reach the Kagami's door and ring the doorbell. Just a moment later, Haruna-san opened the door.

"Kageyuki-san?! I didn't knew you were home!"

"Good evening, Haruna-san. I just arrived. I was told Takeru might be here?"

"Oh! Yes, he's in the living room reading with Sumika."

"Does he come here frequently?"

"Haha, yes, he does. He says reading by himself isn't fun and so he comes to be with Sumika all the time." She says with the same sunshine she always has on her face. I am so lucky to have found such good people to look after him.

"I see. Thanks a lot for having so much patience for him."

"No, on the contrary, it's a great help to have him come visit. Come on in, please."

I enter her house, it hasn't changed at all since I last was here. Looking into the place, I saw the two little ones sitting on the small sofa that was near a wall.

"Takeru-chan, how come the granny survived being inside the wolf?" Sumika asked him as she leaned on his shoulder.

"How should I know that? Even the foreigners' tales are weird." He was plucking his lips at the book.

It seems that they were reading Crimson Raiding Hood. I simply stood by the doorway into the living room watching him as he read the book out loud as Sumika kept making questions about it. Once he finished it, he looked up from the pages. And our eyes met.

"Hey, Takeru."

"Dad!" He dropped the book and came rushing to my side. "Welcome back!" I crouched and gave him a hug as he got to my side.

"How have you been, Takeru?" I ruffled his hair as I took a good look at him. He seems healthy, has no bruises on him, sounds as fine and energetic as always.

"I'm fine, don't worry."

"So, what were you doing here?"

"I came to read with Sumika. It's boring waiting alone until Maya-nee finishes dinner."

"Maya-nee? Takeru, does Tsukuyomi-san let you call her like that?"

"Yeah, she said it's fine. Why?"

"…Nothing, don't worry. So, were you having fun with Sumika?" He smiles widely as he nods.

"Yeah, she always reads with me at night. Though…" His brows lowered a bit. "All these tales are really weird. Dad, how did the granny survive being inside the wolf if he ate her?" Sumika also came close, wanting to hear my answer.

"Huh… That's because… The wolf didn't eat her, he swallowed her."

"Isn't it the same?"

"No, to eat something you have to chew it. If you don't, then it doesn't count." I laugh as their widening eyes, how much did I miss fooling around with you.

"So… If I eat some fruit and I don't chew, what happens?"

"A tree is gonna grow on your belly. So, you better start chewing your food, Takeru." I ruffle his hair as he raises his brows in surprise. "Well, dinner should be done in a short while. Let's go home, Takeru."

"Yeah, let's go home." He grabbed onto my arm, a smile plastered on his face. "Well, we'll keep reading more tomorrow Sumika." He then went to Sumika's side and gave her a tight hug.

"Yes… See you tomorrow, Takeru-chan." He nodded and ended the hug.

"Thanks for reading with him all the time, Sumika." I went to her side and ruffled her hair. She giggled as I did.

"No, it's really fun. But all the tales are really weird." Takeru nods to her words.

"Haha, they are old tales after all. Well, we should be going. Thanks again, Sumika." She smiles and follows us as we made our way to the door.

"See you tomorrow, Haruna-san." Takeru said once we got outside.

"Yes, see you tomorrow."

"Thanks for looking out for him all this time." I give her a small bow, she sighs and then smiles at me.

"It's not a problem. It helps a lot to have him visit. Right, Sumika?"

"…Yes." The little one nodded, her eyes on the ground in embarrassment.

"Well, we should be going. Thanks again, and see you tomorrow." Takeru waved at them as they also did before closing the door.

"Dad…" Takeru pulled my sleeve before we went inside our house.

"What's up?"

"Did Mom come back home too?"

"…Not yet. Let's be a bit more patient with Mom, okay Takeru?"

"…Yes. Are you going back to the samurai tomorrow?"

"No, I'm staying home for a week this time."

"Really?!"

"Yes, so we'll get to read together all the books you want." He then hugged my arm again.

"Thanks, Dad. Oh, but tomorrow I gotta go train. Will you come with me?"

I open the door and bring us both inside, after closing I look at him again.

"Takeru, what do you mean by training?"

"Hm? Maya-nee takes me to train with Mion and Shion. And I visit Yuuhi while I'm there too."

"But… What the… Takeru, since when have you been doing this?"

"Um…" He folds his arms and looks up, furrowing his brows as he groans a bit. "The first time we went was in March, I think."

Why did nobody told me of this? And more importantly…

"Takeru, when you say Yuuhi, do you mean Yohime-sama's daughter?"

"Yeah, we're really good friends." He smiles again as he nods.

"…And Mion and Shion are… the little sisters of the Tsukuyomi, right?"

"Yeah, that's right. The pickles are also my friends."

"Pickles?"

"Don't they look like pickles? Their hair is all green, and they're always so bitter… At first they didn't really like me, they were making this really scary face all the time, so I thought they were like those pickles Maya-nee made me eat once." He says as he puffs his cheeks.

As we go into the kitchen and sit, I think about what he just told me. It seems he's been made to interact with the young nobles, and nobody told me a thing about it. Why? Knowing how both Tsukuyomi brother think, I can't see them agreeing to this.

"And do they treat you badly now?"

"No, not anymore. Well, Shion sometimes does. She gets really angry from time to time when she doesn't do something as she wants. I don't get it, she's so good but she still gets so mad about stuff. She's such a dumb pickle." Takeru says puffing his chest.

Tsukuyomi-san was carrying some the plates when we got to the kitchen, and so I helped her serve dinner while Takeru told me of his trainings. Of how he's starting to get better at shogi but still can't win in kendo, of how he and Shion are evenly matched in juggling, of how he and Mion are reading together that book of pirates he didn't want to read back then. Tsukuyomi-san sent a glare at Takeru as she served him his food when he again called the young ones pickles.

"Takeru, I told you to not call them in that way. It is rude to refer to Shion and Mion in such a way."

"But they're always so bitter…"

"Tsukuyomi-san, why has Takeru been meeting your relatives?"

"Well, Takeru told Yohime-sama he wanted to learn to use a blade and she allowed him to go train in our dojo during the weekends."

"I see…" Is that really all there is to this? It can't be, why would they allow a normal boy to be so close to them? "And what about Yuuhi-sama? He said they're friends…" Tsukuyomi-san sighs as she shakes her head slightly.

"Yes, that is the case. Takeru approached her as he usually does when they met and she seemed to have taken an interest in him, and I believe they get along well as of now. He gave her a spinning top as a present, and since their birthday is on the same date, they promised to share their birthdays from now on."

"Wait, what? I… Wait, so you're telling me Yohime-sama and Takahisa-sama are okay with this?"

"…Were you not told of this, Kageyuki-san?"

"No, not a word. I mean… How did he even manage to get in her good side?"I look at Takeru, who didn't wait for us to sit down to start devouring his food.

"Well, Takeru can be very kind when he wants to. As nobles, Yuuhi-sama, my sister and younger cousin did not know what… friendship was."

She then tells me of how she saw their exchanges. Of how Yuuhi-sama was overjoyed to have a friend, of how her sister disliked Takeru at first and of how she's slowly warming up to him as they go visit them and play with the toys and books Takeru takes with him, of how her younger cousin started talking more and regained her smile thanks to Takeru helping her realize how good she actually was when practicing together and by simply wanting to read and have fun with her.

"He actually noticed how much time Shion takes before moving back during his practice. He told Mion of it and thanks to that their duels are more even now. And thanks to his open friendliness, Mion is no longer as silent and stiff as she was. She even seems to have developed a sweet tooth thanks to him." Tsukuyomi-san said as we ate.

"A sweet tooth? How so?"

"That's because I told them to have cake and Mion ate it all herself once." Takeru said in a pouty voice before continuing to eat at his rice.

"…Cake? Did they have a birthday party?" Tsukuyomi-san sighs as she nods.

"Yes, Takeru suggested them to hold parties for their birthdays, which were around a month apart from each other. Mion enjoyed sharing cake with Takeru and Shion during the latter's birthday as they read a book. So for her birthday my older cousin baked a cake for Mion, that she liked much, and then proceeded to eat most of it herself. Mion said she had much fun that day, and she smiled as she hadn't in a long time. Sadly, since then she seems to look forward to eating sweet food, and my cousin has told me she has come down with a stomach ache a few times."

"…So Takeru was a bad influence for them, huh."

"No, on the contrary." Tsukuyomi-san taps her glasses, then looks at him softening her gaze. "Thanks to him, my younger cousin and sister are getting along much better than before. My younger sister is still rather rude around Takeru, but he isn't a bad influence at all. They needed a friend to relax around from all the pressure of our training as Royal Guards, and he also seems to enjoy his time in the Main House."

"Takeru, do you like going there?"

"Yeah! It's really fun. One of these days we're gonna beat Shion at something." He rose a little fist up, puffing his cheeks again.

I smile and laugh at his reaction. So he's a friend of them… I let out some air, my shoulders relaxing a bit as I let go of the ball of nerves that was making my heart race in worry. If he's this happy about it, it means he isn't being treated badly. We kept eating as Takeru told me of his trainings and Tsukuyomi-san commented on his words. Once we were done, I took him to his room.

"So, you really practice with them every weekend?" I ask Takeru as we go up the stairs.

"Yeah, but I still can't win. They might be girls, but the pickles are really strong. Did you also have to train like that to be a samurai, Dad?"

"Well, yeah." I was put under Col. Kazora's care for my kendo lessons when my induction was approved. "It was really hard, so I can understand how you feel perfectly." He never held back, not even once. It was like diving into a sea of fire, entering the dojo. "By the way, nobody treats you badly when you go to the Main House?"

"Hmm… They pickles Dads don't really like me." He plucks his lips as we get to his rooms' door. "They always have these scary eyes on their face, like they're always angry at something."

"I see… But they're not bad with you?"

"They don't really talk with me, and don't answer when I greet them. There's also the old woman that's always with Yuuhi, she also doesn't talk with me. But nobody is being mean like back in the other school." He then smiles, which means I can rest easy.

I will have to ask about what's going on here, though. They wouldn't… be planning to have him join the Guard as well, right? What reason could a Regent House have to let a simple boy like Takeru be so close to their heirs? They're always so detached from the rest of us, the common folk only ever gets to see them in the news or in some odd announcement.

I help Takeru to get in his pajama, sitting by the side of his bed once he gets under his sheets. I breathe in, softly ruffling his hair for a moment. All the aching I was feeling vanished for a moment, because he's alright. Alert mode finally turned off, I simply smiled naturally at him.

"Dad, can you read me a story?"

"Sure. By the way, does Tsukuyomi-san read you something before bed?" He pouts, looking a bit away.

"…Only if I'm good."

"Hahaha… Do you really like Tsukuyomi-san, Takeru?"

"Yeah, she can be scary sometimes, but Maya-nee is really nice." And again, he smiles without delay.

"I see… That's good to hear. Really… That's good. So, what would you like me to read you?"

"Hmm… Oh, what about Banzel and Kretel? I haven't read that one yet."

"Lemme see… This one?" I went to the rack with the books, picking up a foreign tale. "I didn't knew you liked these tales."

"Me and Sumika wanted to see if they were also as weird as our tales. But I still don't get most of them…"

"Hm? Are they hard to read?"

"No, they're really weird." He raises a hand, then makes it a tiny fist.

He then told me of what he thought about Heeter Pan, Crimson Hood, Liger in Boots, Binocchio, and all the other books he and Sumika have been reading, for school or just for fun. He also complained about how Sumika doesn't like scary stories.

"So, there's a part where Binocchio gets ambushed by these two mean thieves… So, when we got to it, Sumika screamed when she saw them attacking Binocchio."

"Are they that scary?"

"Well… N-No." He looked away, so he's trying to play tough. You silly, little Takeru. "But they were all dark because they had these long, black capes covering their faces and it was raining, so the sky was all dark too. I… wasn't that scared, but Sumika didn't like them at all, so we stopped reading then because she started complaining. So when I went to visit her the next day to keep reading, she had scribbled all over those pages!"

"Eh?! Really?"

"Yeah, she just grabbed a bunch of pencils and scribbled them over, and when I tried to read them she just passed them in a flash. We don't need to read this part, she said." He pouts, crossing his arms.

"What did Haruna-san said then?"

"She started laughing at us! I asked her for help, because Sumika wasn't letting me read, and she just laughed for a while."

I would have laughed at that too, I bet seeing Sumika doing that was too precious for her, considering what she told me before. She simply must have been delighted. I wish I could have been there to see you two quarrel about that.

"Well, don't worry. So, does this book have the scribbles?"

"No, that was Sumika's book. I asked Maya-nee to buy me this one so that I could read it all. She had me pass a history test with a good grade, though."

"So you're also doing well in school?"

"Yeah. Maya-nee is really strict about homework."

"And… you're not getting into more fights?"

"…Sometimes I do."

"I see… But remember Takeru, you don't have to punch anyone, no matter what they say." It would be troublesome if he did that in the Main House, and it's time for him to stop reacting like that too. Now that Miho is gone, I have to be more strict with him too. "If you get in trouble, I'll get angry at you."

"Okay… I'll try to not get fight anymore. But there's these girls, and they're really mean to Sumika."

"Oh, so you're defending her?"

"Yeah, since she starts crying on the way back home sometimes. I hate those dumb girls."

"Sigh… Still, no fighting." I ruffle his hair softly, I can't blame him after all. It's what I did for Koetsu all those years ago. Until Dad reprimanded me for harming someone. "Can you promise me you'll be good?"

"…Yes. So… Will you be coming home more often?"

"…I don't know. I have a lot of work to do, but I'll see what I can do. Well, should we start?" I open the book, sitting by the side of his bed.

"Thanks, Dad." He got closer, giving me a kiss on the cheek before I started, making my eyes almost let out a few tears for a second there. Back on his pillow, he stared at me as he waited.

And so, I read him the book. I did so slowly, both to prolong this moment for as long as I could and to help him fall asleep. I enjoyed his stare on me, and his surprise at things he had forgotten. Once I saw him start to nod off, I lowered my voice, getting closer to him.

Once he fell asleep, I remained by his side brushing his hair off his forehead. Again simply lying by his side, our forehead touching, I closed my eyes and again let the minutes tickle away. A certain pleasant numbness spreading through me, I don't know how much time it passed until I mustered enough willpower to stand up. Kissing his cheek once softly, delaying my exit for some seconds to whisper good nights into his ear, I left Takeru's side. I also left the shadows that had been following me all this time. No longer walking with strong steps, no longer with a pressure in my chest, my breathing calm and relaxed, I descended the stairs.

"Is he asleep now?"

"Yes. Thanks again, Tsukuyomi-san. For everything you've done." I give her a bow, since I am really thankful to her.

"…There is no need. I am merely doing what is expected of me."

"So, now that he's sound asleep…" I sit down on a chair, she sits in front of me. "What can you tell me of these visits to the Main House?"

"There isn't much more to say. He insisted on coming with me when I was called back for my report, and since I had promised to give him some basic sword training when I found him using that sword, Yohime-sama allowed him to go there each weekend."

"And why is that? Why was I not told of this?"

"I do not know. However, all I said is true. Me and my older cousin believe both Yuuhi-sama and our sisters needed a friend, a confidant if you may. Takeru simply was his usual self when around them."

"I see… Forgive the question but… Nobody is planning on inducting him into the Royal Guard, right?"

"Perish the thought, Kageyuki-san." Her eyes grew piercing, her voice imposing as her father's. "I myself am against such an arrangement, and furthermore, Yohime-sama herself said she harbors no such intentions. Worry not, no one is going to force Takeru to join the Guard."

"Sigh… Sorry for asking."

"It is fine, and understandable. If I may, might I ask a personal question to you?" She said, tapping her glasses. I nod, resting an arm on the table. "Does Takeru know of his mother's passing?"

"…No, I couldn't bring myself to tell him what death means. Why do you ask?"

"He once… asked me not to leave him. He seemed to think you also had left somewhere and weren't coming back." Her gaze lowers, I can't even begin to guess what she's thinking about.

"I see. Could you… well, try to explain it to him if you find the right moment? I… I don't… know if I…" Again, a knot forms on my throat.

"It is alright. I shall find a way to deal with this matter." She said, in a business-like manner.

"Thanks, Tsukuyomi-san. And sorry for pushing this on your shoulders."

"No thanks are needed, I am merely performing my duty. Also, I told you Maya-san was fine." She narrows her eyes just a bit. I suppose she isn't testing me, so I could call her that, if it bothers her that much.

"Okay, thanks again Maya-san. Well, about these trainings… If not to join the Guard, what was the reason behind this?"

"As I said before, Yohime-sama said she merely wished for Takeru to be a friend to Yuuhi-sama, my sister and younger cousin. To be someone they can consult in the future. Since they don't interact with people outside of their circles, Takeru is the only one who can show them how it is the life of the peasantry. And he said he wanted to learn to use a sword to see you once more, so Yohime-sama simply allowed him to train there during our visits." So Yohime-sama is as random as Takahisa-sama, huh? Are they really… just being kind to Takeru? "To reiterate, I myself voiced my opposition to use this dream of his to induct him, so you can rest assured Kageyuki-san. Takeru won't be forced to join the Guard, not while I'm his retainer."

Her tone was strong enough to tumble down a TSF, her eyes had that piercing feel just like the Colonel's. She is being honest. Again, I let out a long sigh. Alongside it, the toxic thoughts that clogged my mind also left my insides. He's in good hands… Thank the Holy Emperor, he's in good hands.

"…So, I have one final question for today."

"What is it?"

"…Were you told what would happen to Takeru if I died during my duty?"

"…No, I was not. I suppose he would be sent to an orphanage."

"…I see."

Of course, they're already doing more than enough. Sending one of the Tsukuyomi here, letting Takeru go to the Main House… I am relieved beyond words to see he's in good hands. For now, that will be enough.

"Then, could I go with you to the Main House tomorrow? I would like to clear some of this stuff with Takahisa-sama or Yohime-sama if they have the time."

"Hmm… I don't see why not. We usually depart as soon as he comes back from school, would that alright?"

"Yeah, don't worry. And thanks again for everything, Maya-san."

"Please, it is alright. Did you need anything else of me?"

"Yeah, I was wondering if… you could tell me of how he's been all these months. I know you must be tired… But…"

"It is no problem. Now then… Where should I begin?" She brought a hand to her chin, moving her head as if she were nodding off. "Oh, I suppose I should start with our first week together. You see, Takeru gave me much trouble when he didn't want to do his homework. At the time, he-"


Next Day. Around 2 PM.

(Near the Koubuin House.)


After going to pick up Takeru from his morning classes in school, we were ready to depart to Osaka. I thought we would have to use the public trains, and that's why Maya-san had gotten up so early to ready herself, and why she asked me to go buy 'souvenirs' to take with us. I still can't believe they would send a freaking limo to pick us up at the station, even more to have had us use the Royal Guard's private trains to get to Osaka.

Even less for us to now be entering through the main gates, as if we were important guests. I remember seeing the main houses on TV, being amazed at how imposing they looked… But seeing them in person is completely different, I'm simply awestruck. Being but an inductee I was never called here, I always stayed in our outpost near the Osaka Castle. And, well, my 'fellows' don't exactly like me, so I never thought I would ever set foot in this place. To think Takeru did so before me… Life is weird sometimes.

"Maya-san, is this really alright?" I say in a whisper, while she was trying to keep Takeru from staring out the window.

"Hm? Yes, why would there be a problem?"

"Well, two commoners are coming in a limo, using your private trains, entering through the main gate. I think some people are not going to take this nicely."

"…I can understand you worry, but rest assured. As much as some would like to voice their opposition, this has been allowed by Yohime-sama. Let me be the one in the lead, in case anyone sees your presence with foul eyes."

"Yes, I agree. Thanks again, Maya-san."

"No, it is nothing."

"Say Dad…" Takeru looked back from the window towards us. "Do you know why they put a pond over there?"

"…I think it's just for decorating. Back in my school, we also had a pond with Koi fish."

"Really? Why does my school not have one?"

"Well, it's kind of an old custom, so new schools probably don't have them."

"Ooh… Why were there fish in the pond? Did you eat them?"

"Of course not, Takeru. It was just to have some… sort of atmosphere set."

"…I don't get it." He furrows his brows, pouting again.

"Don't worry about it. You'll understand once you grow up." Maya-san sighs as he groans in disagreement.

During that conversation, we had finally parked within the large state of the Koubuin Main House. Getting out of the limo, I saw a woman with emerald hair coming our way. I suppose she's Col. Bazora's daughter.

"Welcome, Maya. And I suppose you must be Kageyuki Shirogane-san?"

"Ah, yes." I stood up in attention by reflex, giving her a salute. "Good morning, Ma'am."

"Please, there is no need for such formalities. You are not here as a member of the Guard, Shirogane-san. You are our guest today." She smiled, more sweetly and caring than I ever expected someone of the Shinpan to do towards me. "My name is Mana Tsukuyomi, and regardless of my station you, as a permanent member of Takahisa-sama's squadron, are one of my fellows. I am pleased to make your acquaintance." She gave me a small bow, politely and without any tension or signs of rejection.

I gulped, hesitating a moment, thinking it may be yet another test of character. However, after a sigh, I returned the gesture. I'll just stick to doing my best speaking formally.

"The pleasure is mine, Tsukuyomi-san. Thanks for your hospitality towards me and my son."

"Ah, no, it is nothing. Also, Mana-san shall suffice. We are many Tsukuyomis in this house, so I do not mind you using my name to refer to me."

"In that case, shouldn't I use the -sama?"

"As I said before, you are our fellow. Also, I am used to little Takeru, so I do not mind. However, I concede using said honorific with my Father and Uncle is indeed the correct choice."

…Not like I was planning on calling the Colonels by anything other than their ranks. They're terrifying enough when they're not upset, and I don't want to return to my first weeks in the Guard.

"Oh, hi Mana-nee!" Takeru came rushing from behind me, coming up to Mana-san… and giving her a hug.

"Hello, Takeru. How have you been?" And she smiled… widely. Patting his head, she seemed to be in cloud nine. Does she like children, maybe?

"I've been fine. But Maya-nee made me study until late for a math test… It was a lot." He complained, as usual. He really doesn't get along well with numbers.

"Oh, that is awful." She said, raising her tone a bit, purposely talking funny. She seems to truly like him, it's good to see at least someone else is honestly nice towards him. "You must have been so tired."

"Yeah… That was so mean." He replies in a pouty voice, making me chuckle when I see him puffing his cheeks. It's a surprise to be sure, seeing a noble be this warm to a peasant.

"Ahem…"

Maya-san had taken some steps forward, tapping her glasses as she did, looking just as her father does when he is about to begin berating one of us for something.

"Allow me to clarify that it wasn't anything you should worry about, Kageyuki-san. I merely had Takeru studying half an hour more so that he could achieve the score he needed."

"Oh, I see." I would ask more, but her narrowed eyes and dry tone are making me think I should stay out of… whatever this is.

"I think you could have been slightly more receptive towards Takeru." Mana-san replied, smiling and caressing her hair. "Having someone study for longer periods of time does not guarantee success."

"Still, he achieved the score he needed, which proves I was right in my method." Maya-san retaliates.

"Even so, such approach could backfire, making Takeru unwilling to study for math in the future. Taking into account his own learning pace is of utmost importance." She said as she patted Takeru's head.

"Thank you kindly for the suggestion Mana, but do remember that I am Takeru's retainer. Therefore, I do know more about his habits and limits than you."

"Um…" Both of them look my way, almost making me flinch. "I do think forcing him might not be a good idea, but Takeru can be really stubborn from time to time. Takeru, was studying bothersome?"

"No, I just don't get the stuff we see. I did manage to get some of the problems right thanks to practicing more, that's why I got a good grade on the test." He smiles. Sticking out his chest in pride.

"See, Mana? My method was the right one."

"It was a lot to study, though." He continued, folding his arms and puffing a cheek. "You could have given me a small break to rest, Maya-nee."

"…You were saying, Maya?" Mana-san curved an edge of her lips into a smirk while placing a single finger on her cheek, lowering the inner side of her brows in what I can only call a smug gesture.

They then remain staring at each other for a moment, saying nothing. Maya-san with a stone cold expression, Mana-san with a slightly more relaxed but still somewhat confrontational smile.

What the hell is going on here? Are they… arguing over Takeru?

"Well… Yohime-sama is waiting. Let us go." Mana-san said, smiling my way.

As we walk towards the house's entrance, Maya-san made quite an obvious effort to place herself between Takeru and her cousin. I was on Takeru's left side, holding his hand. When Mana-san seemed to bring something up in a low tone, making Maya-san focus on her, I used that chance.

"Hey, Takeru…" I whisper to him.

"Hm?"

"Do these two usually argue like that?"

"Yeah… Maya-nee and Mana-nee sometimes start arguing like that. Maya-nee then gets all angry, her eyebrows get all spiky and low. I don't get why they fight like that." Me neither, Takeru. Me neither.

"Kageyuki-san?" Maya-san turned towards me.

"Ah, yes?"

"Would you prefer to go meet with Yohime-sama now, or to join us in the dojo?"

"Do I get to choose? If Yohime-sama doesn't have the time, it's fine."

"She seems to be free as of now, however, it seems the lessons at the dojo have already started. Takeru would have to come with us there. What would you like to do?"

Well, for one, I would like some cold water. To see if I'm not actually dreaming. Why would they be treating me with such respect? I don't get it. Well… As much as I'd like some answers, I want to be there seeing him train. Just in case something happens.

"I'll accompany you to the dojo, I want to see how Takeru is doing." His grasp on my hand tightened a bit.

"Very well. Allow us to go there, then." She said, and then we four picked up our pace.

As we entered the house and they guided us to the dojo, while I asked Takeru about his fights in the dojo, I could clearly see some people throwing glances as we passed them, some clearly frowning. Sigh…

When we made it to the dojo, Mana-san excused herself and said she had to return to her duties. After giving her a bow, leaving what we brought from home in her hands, we entered the dojo and when we did I could see Col. Bazora overseeing the training of two little shapes in the normal protective gear. So they don't spar with the Armored Kendo gear? I would have thought they would prefer to use that.

The Col. sees us and gives us a nod, finishing the duel as one got a certain hit to the other's abdomen.

"Welcome, Maya." She bows to him, he nods at her once she rises. "…I didn't expect to see you here, Shirogane." He looks at me in the eye, with that unchanging stoic expression and dull tone.

"Greetings, Colonel." I give him a salute, he remains inexpressive.

"Dad, his name isn't Colonel."

"Takeru, that's his rank in the Royal Guard."

"Rank?"

"I'll explain it later. Don't worry about it." He again furrows his brows and groans.

"Well… I suppose I should introduce you to your son's sparring partners." He said, moving to a side and gesturing towards the little shapes that had come closer, taking off their head gear. "The one on the left is Shion Tsukuyomi, the one on the right is my younger daughter Mion Tsukuyomi. Both of you, your greeting."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, sir." Both of them said in unison.

"The pleasure is mine… Uuh…" How should I call them? Normally, I would have to use the -sama, however, even if Maya-san said that wasn't necessary with anyone other than the Colonels, he might not agree.

"You might refer to them merely by name, Shirogane."

"Oh… Ahem, would that be fine, Colonel?"

"Sigh… Your son does so all the time, I see no reason to force you to use an honorific on this occasion. I hope you understand the honor it is, to be bestowed this privilege."

"…Yes, sir. I do know it very well." He nods, seeming satisfied with my court answer.

"Well then, Shirogane, are you ready to begin?" He looked at him, Takeru gave him a nod, pursing his lips a bit.

"Dad… I'll do my best, so look really well. Okay?"

"Haha, yes, I'll be looking." I pat his head, his eyes seem to shine brighter as he smiles.

"Hehe… Get ready, Mion, Shion. Because today I'm gonna win!"

Maya-san sighed while the one called Mion smiled at him. Col. Tsukuyomi merely closed his eyes, tapping his forehead with a single finger.

"I wonder about that." Mion said. "You barely can trade blows with us after all."

"Uh… You'll see today! Shion, you too get ready to finally lose." Takeru said with a confident smile, raising another fist up. And yet…

The turquoise haired little girl folded her arms and looked away from him, her brows coming down quite tensely. I can see she is truly Col. Kazora's daughter, perhaps she doesn't like Takeru much. Maya-san said she was warming up to him, but still…

"Shion? What's up?" He got closer, staring directly at the turquoise eyes that were narrowed.

"…You're late." She said, sounding upset.

"Huh? I'm here, I'm not late."

"Yes, you are!" She looked at him, placing her hands on her waist and glaring at him. "We had to start training without you. I hate people that don't keep their word."

"Shion, we had to wait longer for a taxi to come for us." I tell her, getting closer and crouching. "It's not Takeru's fault. I also had to come here, so we took some more time to be ready. Please don't be angry at him."

"I see… Um, did you bring the souvenirs at least?" She asked me politely, but still with her brows tense.

"You mean the sweets? Yeah, I went to buy them myself."

"Dad brought more than usual, so we have a lot of ice cream today!" Takeru said happily, nodding once.

I mean, Maya-san told me to go buy something sweet for the kids, and I just brought what we had when Sumika and Haruna-san visited us for his birthday, since there would be three kids. I also tried to buy something 'good' even if I know they would have access to better stuff. Maya-san said it was fine, though.

"Um… What flavor did you bring, sir?" Shion asked, this time clearly interested.

"Strawberry, lemon, apple, and pear, all in their own separated packages. I brought a kilo of each, since Maya-san told me you enjoy sweet food."

"Oh, I want the pear one!" Mion suddenly said, a small smile in her face.

"No, you always get that one." Shion practically hissed at her cousin, dropping her manners and puffing a cheek. "Today I get the pear, you eat the lemon cream." Mion grimaced for some reason, I guess she doesn't like lemons.

"…Takeru, are they always like this?" He nods, giggling as the cousins glared at each other.

"See? I told you they were always so bitter. Dumb pickles." He keeps giggling at the cousins' quarrel.

"That's enough." Col. Tsukuyomi said. "The one of you who wins the most duels gets to choose first. What do you say?"

"Yes, Bazora-sama!" Shion immediately replied, smirking for some reason.

"…Yes, Father." Mion did the same, not as loud but still showing a resolution I didn't expect to see in a noble over some ice cream. Mion then looked at Shion, one of her hands shaking when she did so, and narrowed her eyes. "I'm winning today."

"In your dreams, perhaps." Shion replied with a smirk, clearly not intimidated at all.

"Maya, take Shirogane to the changing room." She nodded and grabbed his hand. I gave him a nod when he looked back, and then they went to the room. "You two, another duel." Col. Tsukuyomi said, and the two girls got their headgear in again and took their poses, beginning to duel again.

…They might be young, but they are really good. No wonder, they are members of the Tsukuyomi family after all.

"So, it seems you came along this time." The Col. says as he comes to my side, not letting the dueling duo out of his sight.

"…Is my presence an inconvenience, Colonel?"

"There is no need to force yourself to speak formally, Shirogane. It doesn't suit you."

"…So, does me being here bother you?"

"Not necessarily."

"Huh. Then, what is the matter?" He never speaks up without having something to say, so what's up with this?

"…Surely you noticed how the girls acted up at the mention of something as simple as the ice cream you brought."

"Are you upset at that, sir?"

"All the contrary." He made a small smile, grasping his chin. "It's thanks to such simple interactions that Mion finally began progressing. It was fine indeed to have been proved wrong."

"…Did you disagree with Takeru being here at first?" He nods.

"I didn't think it would do anyone good, as my brother did. I cannot speak against the results Mion is achieving now, however." I turn to see the girls, who were still evenly matched. "This would have been impossible months before."

"I see… How did Takeru manage to help, if I might ask?"

"He simply gave both of them some time to relax. I admit I was pushing both of them too harshly at the time. Your son isn't anything special, but his honest friendliness was welcomed by my daughters, so I have no complains as of now. Even more considering the results you produced during the test battles against the Kagerou."

"So, I take it no one is being harsh to Takeru?"

"Worry not, we would never allow him to be injured during the trainings. Your loyalty and efforts for our faction won't go unrewarded, Shirogane." His tone grew low, stern, yet somehow… accepting. It lacked the edge they always have when they reprimand me for a miss. "I suppose, you have no more reasons to quit your post, do you?"

"…If you've been this kind towards my son, there is no way I could want to leave now. It's just…" I look down, tensing my hands.

"What is it?"

"I don't understand why would you go so far. We're commoners, your image would suffer if this were known. Why do so much for us?"

"…Perhaps you are not seeing the value you have for our Regent, Shirogane."

"What do you mean?" I am just a useful pilot, nothing else.

"Your skills were vital in our victory in the last battles, as well as in all prior mock battles and trials. Your honesty is also welcomed, for we can see you are not one to lie."

That's just the minimal requirements to being a decent person. Who in the right mind would try to deceive a noble? Lies are short lived, nothing good will come out of hiding my own limits and failures.

"Considering your recent performance, despite what you were going through, I think it to be obvious that you should be treated with the respect you earned."

"I see…"

"You should be more proud of your results, Shirogane." He said, taking a moment to look at me. "I believe Takahisa-sama has told you this before, but perhaps you should begin to see yourself as a permanent vassal of the house."

"…Wait, he was serious about that?"

"He never speaks if he isn't sure to follow through his words." He narrowed his eyes, shaking his head a bit. "While rare, it isn't unheard of to have commoners become vassals of a Regent House. I believe you earned the right to be a fellow of ours."

"Oh… I… wasn't expecting that."

"Truly? After all your displays and the results you bestowed us?"

"Well, I just wasn't expecting any further rewards for my service." I look back at the girls, that were still dueling.

"I see. Well, I think it's just a matter of time and bureaucracy. And if you continue to excel, I suppose we could make this arrangement of your son into a formal induction."

"…What?"

"Well, since you've been serving us so devotedly, and considering your son's situation as of now, I am sure you would be proud to see him following in your footsteps."

I look down, tightening my fists. That's the exact opposite of what I want. I don't want Takeru to have to fight in the war, all I've done… what I promised to Miho… If this is why they've allowed him to be here…

"You'll have to forgive my rudeness, Colonel." I somehow mustered a serious, low voice, despite knowing how my words will be taken. I inhale through my nose, tensing my lips into a line. "However, that's not what I wish for my son's future."

He slowly looks my way, brows arched. Scanning my face for a second, he puts a few fingers on his chin.

"…So you're saying you do not wish for him to follow in your footsteps?"

"No, I don't want Takeru joining the Royal Guard. I didn't make so much sacrifice so that he would end up entangled in the war." I look at him, arching my brows. And then, he moved his head back, rising his chin as his eyes narrowed.

"Despite the honor of being placed as a permanent member of the squadron, despite the offer to become a vassal of the Koubuin House, and despite all that has been done for your son… You do not wish for him to remain in our fellowship?" It feels as if I were talking with a Fort-Class, my knees shook for a moment under his emerald gaze, under his slow but clearly angry tone.

"I want him to be happy. Fighting in the war… will take his freedom from him, as it did to me. I know how much all what has been done for me means, but if it was done with the expectation of having my son become a soldier… Then, I will have to refuse your kindness."

He remained still, looking at me without changing his expression. Only the sounds of the wooden blades clashing against each other could be heard. He slowly folded his arms as he held my gaze, as I slowly breathed in, as I felt a twister turn in my stomach. I know that this will be seen as an insult, and I will probably be kicked out of the Guard. But I'll be damned if I let them have their way. I won't bow down and let them turn Takeru into a soldier.

After a moment, the door of the changing room opened and Maya-san's and Takeru's voices reached us. The Colonel looked at them and nodded.

"Well, let's begin the training."

"Wait Colonel, I don't consent to this." He looked back, somehow taken aback.

"You don't consent, huh?"

"I already said my opinion, I do not agree with what you're doing." All of this makes sense now. The younger Tsukuyomis were being so respectful because they assumed I would become their vassal, and have Takeru do the same. Maybe that's why Maya-san chose to stay back home, to teach him how to 'behave properly'.

I had thought they were telling the truth back then, that Maya-san and Mana-san simply were being nice to Takeru, that they had taken a liking to him for some reason. What an idiot I was.

"Dad, what's wrong?"

"Nothing Takeru, we're just having a talk."

"But my training is about to start. Why are you angry?"

"I'm just… discussing something with the Colonel."

"Shirogane, you're here merely as a guest." He said, folding his arms. "What reason could you have to be against this?"

"I believe I already stated it."

"Bazora-sama, what is going on here?" Maya-san furrowed her brows, seeming to not understand the situation.

"Nothing of importance." He then looks at Takeru. "Shirogane, you're ready to train?"

"My name is Takeru!" He complained as he usually does. "But yeah, I'm ready. Why were you arguing with Dad, Bazora-san?"

"Matters not. Go and take your pose."

"Wait a second, I don't-"

"Do you not want to see your son train, Shirogane?" He said, making Takeru look at me, I could see his eyes lower through the headgear.

You son of a bitch… Using him as a shield… I should have known better. What do they want from him? Are they using Takeru to make me continue serving them?

"Kageyuki-san, please calm down." Maya-san came to my side, still looking taken aback. "Please do take in mind how important this is for Takeru. Nobody will harm him, so please do not be so alarmed."

"Yeah, don't worry Dad. I'm gonna be fine!" He replied with his usual cheer.

"…You want to train Takeru?"

"Of course!"

"Okay… I got it." I send a look towards the Colonel. "I suppose we should have a talk later."

"…It seems so, yes."

Takeru gets in position, paired to fight with Mion. As they do, Maya-san circles to my right, standing close to me.

"What happened while we were in the changing room?"

"Don't feign ignorance, Maya-san."

"What do you speak of?"

Takeru and Mion begin to trade blows, but it's clear she's not taking this seriously. Unlike Takeru, who is trying really hard, going by how much force he's putting in his swings.

"Please, stop it. The Colonel told me you all are planning to induct Takeru into the Guard."

"Wha… Excuse me, what?" Hm? I looked at her and found her squinting her eyes. "Are you being serious?"

"Do you think I would joke about this, Maya-san?" I return the harsh gaze, she then looks at the Colonel, who simply looked at us as if bored.

"…I didn't knew of this. What did he told you?" She's… pissed off. Just like yesterday.

She doesn't seem to be lying… so, is this idea something the Colonels have? No, Col. Kazora is pretty much allergic to commoners. Then, what's going on here?

Takeru's defense was broken, Mion struck his chest and won their duel. He started complaining.

"Next pair!" Col. Tsukuyomi said, Shion took Mion's place as Takeru's adversary. "Well done, Mion." The little girl bowed to her father, standing by his side.

The next duel began, with Takeru being in an even bigger disadvantage. What's the point of doing this? He is learning, but what do they gain? Someone to talk to? As if the nobles didn't have enough fellows, and they could simply have chosen someone from the local area, to avoid all the bother with the train and the limo from being noticed. I don't get it…

"Bazora-sama…" Maya-san had gone to the Colonel's side. "Is what Kageyuki-san told me true?"

"…Regarding what?" She gets closer, whispering her question. "Well, there is some truth to it."

Maya-san seemed to be frowning for a second, she tapped her glasses and took a step back. All the while, Shion had Takeru on the back foot without a chance to get out of her lock. It didn't took much for her to win.

The Colonel orders for the next duel and both girls take their stances in front of each other as Takeru comes to my side, hanging his head.

"Hey Takeru… You did a good effort."

"…But I still lost." He takes off his headgear, letting me see his low, dejected eyes.

I sigh, crouching to meet his eyes. Letting go of the anger that was flooding me, I pat his shoulder as I make a small smile towards him.

"Wanna know something? When I was your age, I still hadn't learned how to use a sword as good as you do now."

"Really? But didn't Uncle Koetsu taught you?"

"Yes, but that was in high school. You're doing great for having started just a few months ago." His eyes regain their usual shine, smiling widely.

"Then, will I get to join the samurais like you?" His tone was like cat seeing fish being dangled above it. I, on the other hand, sobered my face and lost some of my glee.

"…Why do you want that, Takeru? Being a samurai is really hard."

"Because then I'll be able to help you out."

"You don't have to worry about me. Dad is going to end the fight before you know it. It's a promise." I pat his head, covered by the cloth keeping his hair tidy.

"Uuh… Then, will you stay home then?"

"Yes, when that day comes. So, you just wait for me. You can practice if you want, but there's no need for you to fight. Dad is not going to lose, Takeru."

"Okay… But I wanted to help out." He sulks a bit. Sigh… Stubborn to a fault.

"You can help elsewhere. Once you grow up, you can decide what you'll do. But leave the fighting to me, okay?"

"…But what if you get hurt?"

"…I'm not going to. Have some faith in the samurais, Takeru. There is nothing we cannot defeat if we fight together." I force a smile, trying to sound like Takahisa-sama does whenever he gives us an important briefing.

"Really?"

"Really. So, you don't worry about me. I promise you we'll beat the bad guys soon." I again pat his head, this time more slowly. I stand up, Takeru comes to my side as he watches the duel.

"So, how good are you with a sword, Dad?"

"Well… I'm not as good as the rest of the samurais, but I can at least give them a challenge."

"Can you show me? Come on, we're here so have a duel!" He tugged at my arm, being again all smiles.

"We don't have any armors for me here, Takeru." He puffed his cheeks as he groaned again, still tugging at my arm.

"Sadly, it is true. We don't have any armored kendo gear here." Maya-san said, coming towards Takeru. "Perhaps another time, Takeru."

He pouts, groaning again. Once the duel was finished, he was again made to face off against Mion while Maya-san practiced with Shion. The kids had some more duels, Takeru didn't win a single of them, and then Maya-san took charge of the training as they practiced their swings side by side.

It's amazing, how much he has learned in so little time. It took me three years to learn with Koetsu just the basics. I was mostly fooling around, but still. And yet… Why would they, specifically the Tsukuyomi brothers no less, have their heirs train with a commoner? Just because he gets along with them?

"It looks like you have something on your mind, Shirogane." Col. Tsukuyomi had come to my side, we were rather far from the kids so he had no need to whisper.

"One could say that."

"It is rare, seeing you unwilling to be open." He narrows his eyes.

"I think I already said what I have on my mind."

"I see… I had thought you weren't planning on leaving your post, alas it seems I was mistaken." He folds his arms, now looking at the kids.

It's like talking to a mountain. Another test, is it? I should have seen this one coming, of course the Tsukuyomi brothers were not going to let my wish to leave my post go without a single reprisal. I guess he thinks I'll turn tail one day, the question here is… Is he merely baiting me, or do they really want to induct Takeru?

As much as this angers me… I can't lose this position. Miho was right, if I leave I'll be called a traitor, and then Takeru will also be called that. Dammit…

You want to test me again? Fine by me. I may not want to have Takeru be a Guard, but that doesn't make me a traitor. I'll say it as many times as it's needed to make them understand.

"I never said I wanted to leave Colonel, just that I don't want Takeru to be inducted."

"That is… puzzling, one could say." He grasped his chin, caressing his thinly shaved beard. "You have been given much favors in these months. I cannot understand why would you not wish to become a vassal of our fellowship. What honor could best such a proposition?"

"It's not a matter of honor, sir." I lower my brows, feeling a small jolt run through my arms. "I do not wish to have my son join the Guard."

"And why would you not? If you became a vassal, you would receive an ample raise, be the one who gives your family a road to follow into the service of the Royal Guard. It is rare, to give such an opportunity to a commoner. For you to refuse the chance to stop being an inductee and begin to be a proper member of the Guard, a fellow of the Koubuin House…"

He took a few steps towards me, I remained still. As if I were a scarecrow trying to endure a downpour while simultaneously being pecked by lightning, I didn't lose grasp of his eyes. My hands tensed up to stop shaking, and despite knowing what words would come next I managed to stay calm.

"It means you would rather be serving elsewhere, 1st Lt. Shirogane." His voice filled with contempt as disgusting as if he had tasted a coffee that had salt cube instead of sugar, he simply returned my gaze.

"That is not the case, Colonel."

"Then, why would you refuse such an offer?"

"I already said why. I don't want my son to fight. I know that if I do become a fellow, it will be expected of Takeru to also serve the Koubuin House. And I… don't want to take more things from him." I look at him, swinging that sword trying to keep the rhythm of the other two, despite beginning to clearly start delaying his swings. "I want him to be free to live a life unaffected by war. So, if all these favors you've given me were done with the expectation that I would formally join you… I will have to decline them."

"…Surely you know what you're saying? To knock away the hand of a Regent… Do you think this will go unpunished?"

"I am not insulting your or Takahisa-sama's aid. I wish to remain as an inductee, until the day you no longer find me useful. I don't need any other honors or privileges." I frown, gritting my teeth for a second, choosing to simply let out my thoughts for a second. "I live for my son, his happiness is my priority. I simply want to keep him safe. That's all there is to this."

And then, he simply remained staring at me.

I gulped, breathing through my nose. Feeling a small jolt run across my shoulders.

He slowly blinked, folding his arms. Scanning my face without a hint of an emotion in his.

I licked the inside of my lips, feeling as if my legs were being piked by mosquitoes.

"…I do not comprehend it." He finally said, shaking his head.

"I believe I made myself clear enough, Colonel."

"Then, let me be frontal with you. Shirogane, you still wish to remain in the Royal Guard?"

"Yes, I am not displeased with my position." Even if some of my 'fellows' can go fuck themselves with a Destroyer-sized drill up their ass. Maybe then they'll be able to get their heads out of it.

"Then, why would you not wish to become a vassal of the house? Your son could be allowed to serve the Guard as well, perhaps one of your descendants will manage to earn the honor of being granted the rank of Tozama. And you could also aim to become a Captain in our forces."

"…Colonel, I said that I have no need for that."

"Do you not wish to safeguard your family? To serve your nation?"

I sigh, remembering my last talks with Miho. For a moment, I look down and could hear her voice again. When I meet the Colonel's eyes again, my face had relaxed.

"I made a promise to my wife, to protect our son. If I become a vassal, then Takeru will also have to serve the nobility, and I don't think that's the best for him. You've seen how he is, I doubt the other nobles would take kindly to him."

"And yet, you have adapted just fine."

"Do you think I enjoy being badmouthed behind my back all the time, Colonel?" I narrow my eyes, he does too.

"I believe you said you weren't displeased…"

"I'm not, I just accepted that as part of this position. I know you and your brother dislike us commoners, as well as many others in the house, and while I've endured this for Takeru's and my wife's sake, I don't want this life for him." I frown, crossing my arms again.

"I was under the impression that you had asked Takahisa-sama for aid so that, if you were to die, he would look after your son."

"Yes, I did. I only asked him to look after Takeru so that he doesn't end up in a cruel place. If it was out of place, I'll apologize." He grasps his chin, again silently staring at me.

"Hmm… I still cannot understand you. You are given this chance, yet you would turn your back to it? You do realize that if you become our vassal you won't have to return to being a pawn of the IJA in the future, do you?"

I can't tell if he's upset or if he's still testing me. Why is he being this adamant? Why is he still insisting so much? He would have raised his voice and called me a fool by now, or worse considering what we're discussing.

It's not that I am ungrateful, and I do understand how rare this chance is. I once also dreamed of being a Royal Guard, of doing good for the people. I know that I'm still rejecting them, but I'm only doing that to keep Takeru safe. That's… the only selfish desire I have in me.

I don't think they would understand, though.

"…I just want to keep my son away from the war if I can help it. That's all there is to this, Colonel. I will keep serving as I have been, I'm not going to quit my post." If only because Takeru would suffer more from that than me.

"…I see. I suppose there is no further need to cross words." Still without showing emotion in his voice, he turned around and went his way towards Maya-san.

If they took offense.. and in the end they'll brand me a traitor anyways… Then, I'll just leave. I don't think Takeru would understand, but it's for the best. I'll keep working as I have until they eventually kick me out. I guess I was an idiot for thinking that they would appreciate my services. It was too good to be true, all this respect and favors they gave us. I haven't done anything that deserves all of this.

The training is finished, and I go to Takeru to take him to the changing room.

"So… What did you think of the training, Dad?"

"You are better than I was at your age. So, good job Takeru." I pat his head, he giggles.

"Do you think I could become a samurai someday?" He again asks once we had entered the room.

"…There's no need for you to do that."

"But I wanna be like you."

"Come on, don't be stubborn." I help him get his gear off, sitting by his side on the small bench that was in the room. "There are a lot of other jobs you can choose once you grown up."

"Hmm… But aren't the samurais the ones who help the people?"

"Sigh… Let's leave this talk for later. So, what do you do after this?"

"Oh, we go to play with Yuuhi."

"Huh… So, when do we go back home?"

"Hmm… Sometimes on Sunday's night, other times in the afternoon."

"You… stay to sleep here?"

"Yeah." He nods, simply and calmly.

Why… would they let him stay over? I know I asked Takahisa-sama to look after Takeru, but that was if I ever died. I never asked him to be put under the Guard's care. Do they really value me so much?

No… I'm just a pilot. That's all I can do. There's no reason to go so far.

I finish helping Takeru get back into his clothes and then along Maya-san and the little Tsukuyomis we went towards where Yuuhi-sama should be.

"Maya-san?" I got closer to her as the kids talked with each other.

"Yes?"

"Is it true that we'll have to stay the night?"

"Oh, didn't you knew? I had assumed you already were informed."

"No, this is a first. Why would you go so far for Takeru?"

"As I said, Yohime-sama allowed it."

"…I suppose I should ask her if I want an answer?"

"Kageyuki-san, I assure you Yohime-sama has no intentions to have Takeru join the Royal Guard. She said so to me the first time we visited the house together."

"It's not that…" I briefly tell her of the proposition Col. Tsukuyomi said would come my way, and of what that means for Takeru. "…So, well, I suppose I am in a tough spot as of now."

"…Indeed you are." She taps her glasses, eyes almost closed. "I didn't think Bazora-sama would suggest such a thing, but I can see why you would be wanted as a fellow."

"Huh? I'm just a pilot, I don't think I've done anything worth such an honor." We're talking of having me join the fellowship of a Regent House. Not from a link with a lower house, no, joining under the direct service of the Koubuin House is what's being offered to me here. I don't think I did anything to deserve this.

"Perhaps you have merits that go beyond your abilities inside a cockpit?"

"For example?"

"Well, I heard you are someone worth our trust, and you are Takeru's father. He might be rude, but he was been raised with good values. I believe you have served for three years already?"

"Almost three years, yes. Still, I… I don't want Takeru to be forced to fight."

Maya-san looks down, seeming to want to agree with me but, due to obvious reasons, being unable to voice it.

"Hey, Dad?"

"Hm? What is it?" Takeru and the other two were looking at me, the little Tsukuyomis straight into my eyes like their fathers know to do.

"What do you do with the samurais?"

Right, I never told Takeru much about my work. Though, I don't know how much I can tell them. Most of our tasks are classified, since they're to make new protocols for the Guard. And I doubt I want to have Takeru saying I'm a pilot, I don't want those kind of people to have more reasons to be harsh to him.

"Well, I work as a tester of sorts."

"A tester?"

"Yeah, I see whether things work well or not." He mulls over my words, not entirely happy with my answer.

"Sir, may I ask what is your rank?" Shion asked, shortly and coldly.

"…Why do you want to know, Shion?"

"I'm just curious about what kind of person Takeru's father is." Her reply was rather… rude, I think she might have taken after her father.

"Well… I'm a First Lieutenant, though I still only wear the pale black uniform."

"So you belong to the bottom of the hierarchy?" Sigh… Here we go again. And from a child, no less.

"Shion, do not be rude to our guest." Maya-san immediately retorted.

"I only spoke the truth." She lowered her brows.

"It's alright, I'm used to it. So, did you want to ask anything else?" Shion looked at me again, and this time she frowned.

"Why is Sister looking over your son, if you're in the lowest rank of the Guard?"

"Shion, don't be mean to Dad! He's still a samurai, whatever this low rank is." Takeru puffed a cheek at her, she folded her arms and looked away from him.

"I'm just asking a question." She complained. "You're funny to be around sometimes, but why is Sister staying with you if your father is just a black-robbed Guard?" Takeru then looks down, plucking his lips.

I was about to react, not necessarily nicely, but Maya-san patted my shoulder. Looking at her, she had her eyes narrowed as her mouth became but a small circle. Seeing her, Shion stiffened up like a cat hearing a thunder.

"Shion, apologize for your rudeness this instant."

"Eh? But I just asked a-"

"I'll have you know that Kageyuki-san asked the favor of having me watch over Takeru to Takahisa-sama in person."

"EH?!" The three kids shout in unison as they stopped walking, kitties and thunders all over again.

"Um… Maya-san? I don't think saying that is a good idea."

"Why would it not be? I know you are under secrecy, but I see no issue with telling them who you work with, as it would explain Shion's question." Her tone a business one, she still sent a scolding gaze towards her sister.

"Dad, you work with Takahisa-san?!"

"…You know him too?"

"Yeah, I saw him last time I came here. He's even better than Yuuhi at Shogi." Takeru frowned, folding his arms while the other two nodded in agreement. "So, you work with him?"

"Well… Yeah, I work under Takahisa-sama." I do wonder why he kept quiet about it. I mean, he could… have said something… about how you were doing.

"Um…" Mion looked at me, tapping some of her fingers together. "Kageyuki-san, does that mean that you're a surface pilot?"

And there is the question I don't want to answer. I look at Maya-san, who nods in approval for some reason. But… I don't think Takeru should know. If he said something…

"Dad, what's a surface pilot?" Sigh… At least he doesn't know yet.

"Takeru?" Again, while I was doubting, Maya-san spoke. "What your father does should remain as a secret, you can't tell it to anyone."

"Is it something dangerous?" He looked at me, curving his brows and giving me the puppy eyes.

"No, it's not that. But…"

"It's has to stay as a secret, and you can't tell it to anyone, not even to Sumika." Maya-san said, giving me a nod when she met my gaze. "If you ever end up speaking of it…" She then tapped her glasses right in the middle, arching her head back.

Both me and Takeru twitched upon seeing her piercing eyes glaring at us. Of course, she is the Colonel's daughter.

"I get it, I won't talk." Takeru said, with a creak in his voice. "So, are you a pilot, Dad?"

"…Yeah, I am. I'm in Takahisa-sama's personal group of pilots, which is why this is a secret. So don't tell it to anyone." He nervously nodded twice, almost made me laugh.

"U-Um… Kageyuki-san?" Shion was looking down now, the confrontational tint in her voice gone. "Forgive me for speaking rudely to you." She gave me a deep bow, one I know would make her father angry if he learns of it.

"No, it's fine. Sigh…"

"So… What's a surface pilot?" Takeru asked again.

"They're the ones who ride the TSFs, Takeru. You know, the flying robots?" Mion said. "Kageyuki-san, how does it feel to fly a-"

"Wait, Dad flies the robots?!" Takeru shouted his surprise, drowning Mion's question. This time I couldn't hold it in and I chuckled at his reaction, his voice is popcorn in the making.

"Yeah… So, don't tell it to anyone, okay?" He nodded again, this time his eyes shining like dawn.

"So, um…" Shion again tried to look at me, but couldn't. "How is it to fly?"

On the rest of the way I told them what little I could, exaggerating some parts of the flying experience. Shion and Mion seemed more knowledgeable than I thought they would be, asking me what was my highest altitude, if I could perform Kulbits, and other rather technical questions. It seems they have seen some mock battles in preparation for their duties, according to what Maya-san told me while we spoke, so it is possible they have seen me piloting already.

Takeru however just made the most innocent questions, if the robot was like the ones in the mangas, what 'special moves' I could use, and if my robot had a special name.

For a moment, I forgot about the discussion I had with the Colonel, simply enjoying the kids' curious questions. Until we made it to the room we were going to, where both Yuuhi-sama and Yohime-sama were awaiting us. I had never met Yuuhi-sama before, but she seems to be as calm as her mother. Yohime-sama seems unchanged to the scarce times she has visited the Castle, it is the first time I am in her direct presence however. We bowed to them once we got inside, and my worries returned to my mind again.

"Good afternoon." Yohime-sama said, her voice being a soft caress of spring. "You may rise." We did so and I saw her face, her lily hair and eyes gazing at us, dressed with a teal kimono. Yuuhi-sama was in a matching kimono, but her hair is more… purple than lily. "I believe it is the first time we meet in person, Shirogane?"

"Y-Yes, it is. It is an honor to be here, Yohime-sama." I'm face to face with a Regent, in their Main House and as a guest. Maybe this is all a dream? All that's left is for Takahisa-sama to suddenly manifest himself out of thin air and we got bingo.

And yet… What I'll have to ask her isn't entirely pleasing.

"It is a pleasure to finally meet you. Yuuhi, dear, your greeting."

"My name is Yuuhi Koubuin. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Shirogane-sama." She's so well mannered… And you're telling me she's friend with Takeru?

"No, the pleasure is all mine, Yuuhi-sama. And there is no need for honorifics, Shirogane is enough."

"Is that so?" She replied, slightly lowering her head. She truly seems to be a nice girl, she didn't take any offense at my words despite being who she is. "Then, it is a pleasure to meet you, Shirogane."

"Well, I'm sure the children must be waiting to play, so let's leave them be. Mana." Yohime-sama didn't even finish speaking and Mana-san appeared right by her side.

Like… She just manifested herself there. How… did she even do that?

"The souvenirs are right here, Yohime-sama. He cards and board have already been arranged." She reported dutifully, as if it were an official mission's report.

"Thanks. Now then, let us go to the hall." She stood up and we followed behind her.

Both young Tsukuyomis went to Yuuhi-sama's side, and then the girl remained looking at Takeru, waving at him. He looked up at me, grasping my hand.

"It's okay, go have fun." I smiled, he did too before going towards the girls.

…I wish I had that bravery to approach girls when I was his age. If Miho hadn't been so forward with that cake she baked me, I would have ended up alone or forced into an arranged marriage.

Still… I feel so out of place here. The room is literally better than those expensive rooms that appear in TV sometimes, and here I am with my 'best' formal clothes, a modest attire to be honest. I'm like the young swan when it was an ugly duck in the pond, just that I'll never become a swan.

We went further into the room, where a table with the sweets and food we brought were laid on. On another corner of the table, there was a deck of cards and some notebooks and pencils, and some ways away there is a small table with a Shogi board set up ready to play.

"So, what did you bring this time, Maya?" Yohime-sama asked.

"This time Kageyuki-san was the one who chose the items. I asked him to choose a mixture of sweet foods he found proper, as well as other appetizers, while I brought a few of the latest picture books I bought for Takeru."

"I see. You have my gratitude, Shirogane." She smiled at me, looking like an angel incarnate.

"No… It was nothing, Yohime-sama."

"So, what sweets did you bring?"

"I… Ahem, I choose to bring ice cream. I don't know if it'll be of your liking, but I bought what was best in the local stores."

"Um… What flavors did you bring?" Yuuhi-sama asked, to which I answer as I did before. She smiles for some reason. "Which one is the strawberry one?"

"Yuuhi, dear, please show moderation." Yohime-sama lowered her eyelids, raising a finger at her daughter. She nods, but despite that she's pouting.

"I suppose she favors strawberries?"

"Indeed she does." Yohime-sama says with a smile, patting Yuuhi-sama's head. "Sadly, there was one time where Takeru brought a small cake with strawberry cream and… well, Yuuhi forgot her manners for a moment." She smiles widely at her daughter while running a hand over her purple hair.

"That is not true." Yuuhi-sama then protested, pout still in place.

"Hehehe… Well, feel free to play as much as you like today. Maya, I leave them in your care."

"Yes, milady."

And with that, the four kids marched towards their table. It seems Shion won the most duels so she asked to have the pear ice cream first, to Mion's complains. Yuuhi-sama, on the other hand, monopolized the strawberry one, only giving some to Takeru, that also asked for some of the apple one. If it weren't for the dissonance between his clothes and theirs, one could simply mistake this for an everyday scenery of some kids playing around.

And yet, that difference is all too important. Their gratitude aside… this is nothing they couldn't have bought, it's certainly much worse than what they could buy using their influence. Yuuhi-sama… seems to enjoy talking with Takeru, but why are they allowing this? A future Regent being this close to a commoner… I never heard of anything like this.

"Shirogane?"

"Ah… Y-Yes, Yohime-sama?" Shit, I was lost in thought again.

"Please do not be so tense. Take a seat." She gestured towards her left, to a seat rather close to her in the table.

"Ahem… Thank you kindly for receiving me, Yohime-sama." I bow to her as I sit, remaining in position.

"It is alright, you may rise." She was still smiling, playing with a strand of hair. "I had heard you were a rather rude fellow, yet it seems those rumors were incorrect."

"No, I am merely doing an effort."

"I see. Please do not be so tense, you are my guest today."

"Thank you very much for your deference, Yohime-sama. So…"

"Yes?"

"Well… Is there anything you were wishing to speak with me?"

"Oh, yes. First, are you pleased with Maya's performance as your son's retainer?"

"To be honest, I think she's doing much more than the money I'm sending her."

"I see, it is good to see you have been pleased." She nods, still smiling. "So, am I right to assume you have no qualms with her staying in her role?"

"… Actually, I was meaning to ask something."

"What is it?"

"Um… Don't misunderstand please, but, why has Maya-san been sent to take care of Takeru?"

"I chose her myself, based on the requirements the person who we had to sent needed to meet. Is there a problem, perchance?" She tilted her head, a slight change in her tone, now slow and stinging like hot wax, made me shift in my seat.

"It isn't a problem per se… It's just that I don't understand why you would go so far for a commoner like me. Maya-san is a member of the Shinpan, I'm sure you would need her somewhere else."

"…Has someone told you she was required elsewhere?"

"No, I just don't understand why we received such deference from your House, Yohime-sama." I give her a bow, eyes closed.

"Rise, it is fine." I do so and see her moving her fringe away, letting some air out. "Well then, as for why we sent Maya, it was because we needed someone who we knew wouldn't divulge the specifics of the mission and couldn't be tracked, while also being capable enough to tend to your son's needs."

"Well, but why go so far for us?"

"I do not see it as anything 'too far' myself, I only did what I had to do to ensure this task went as well as it could." She smiled widely while leaning slightly back and nodding, as if proud. She's as extreme as Takahisa-sama, maybe more.

"I see… Thank you kindly for your aid."

"No thanks are needed. Now then, I suppose you are not against having Takeru visit the house on the weekends?"

"…About that, actually. Why did you allow him to come here, if I may ask?"

"Well, I had heard from my lord husband quite many stories about you."

"Huh? About me?"

"Indeed. Takahisa-sama is very pleased with your performance, and he believes you to be someone worth our trust, due to your stellar conduct while on duty."

"I… don't think I've done anything to deserve such praise."

"Well, he has seen you worthy of such words, so please take them to heart." Her voice soft as silk, she remained smiling my way. "So, when your son came to visit us for the first time…" She then tells me of what happened that day.

"…Forgive him, please. He just doesn't know how to give others space."

"Please rise, I haven't taken offense. I found his interactions with Yuuhi rather… precious." She looks towards the children, I do so too.

The sound of their game fades into my ears, seeing Takeru completely relaxed and smiling from ear to ear as they play some sort of card game. Yuuhi-sama was sitting by his side, also smiling as she looked at her cards.

"As you can see, my daughter lacked what you call a friend, someone who treated her as an equal instead of a superior. I was wishing to have Takeru be some form of confidant for her if they were compatible, and yet they are getting along far better than I ever thought they would." The clear joy in her words was contagious enough to make me smile for a while, despite my worries.

"So they're just good friends?"

"Yes, that is the case. As such, since it does both of them good, I allowed Takeru to accompany Maya on her visits, so that she could also be with her sister here. Does that answer your question?" She looks at me again, her aura overflowing with the grace of a peacock and the shine of a good jewel.

But… I still don't get it.

"Well, but why us in particular? If you wanted a confidant for Yuuhi-sama, I'm sure there are many others who could have taken the role, and without all the problems you have to deal with to have us come here, and leaving Maya-san back at Hiiragi." She bring a hand to her chin, curving her brows and lips.

"I do not believe this is something anyone could have done. We knew beforehand you are someone trustworthy after these years you've worked for us, and even if we asked, there aren't many people who would act so naturally around us as your son does." She smiles as she looks at Takeru, who seemed to be winning the game this time.

"I just…"

"Yes?"

"I don't understand. I am truly thankful and honored to heard you think so highly of me, but I haven't done anything to earn this deference. I know Takahisa-sama can be rather stubborn, but still, this is a privilege that I don't think I've earned. The fact that I am allowed to be in your presence in this way, despite being a mere commoner, is hard to believe. I am just a normal person, I don't think I've done anything to earn these privileges."

"I have heard you have done a fine work in your position, however."

"Well, perhaps, but I am just a pilot. And there are some who are better than me."

"I wasn't speaking solely of your piloting skills."

"Huh? Then, what else could you be speaking about?"

"You have helped us in disciplining our troops, according to Takahisa-sama."

…What?

"Excuse me Yohime-sama, disciplining the troops? I never did anything like that."

"Not directly perhaps, however your presence has aided in bringing certain pressing matters to light. I am convinced you are aware of all those who speak ill of you behind your back." I nod, looking down. "Tell me Shirogane, do you know why we wear different colored dresses?"

"Huh?" Where does this come from? "To showcase one's station?"

"Indeed, that's one. What's the second reason?"

"…There was a second reason?" She giggles at my confusion as the shouts of the kids reach our ears.

"You see, we also have such an arrangement to force visibility upon every member of the Royal Guard."

"Visibility?"

"Indeed. By looking at a dress you can already size up who that person is likely to be merely by the color of the dress and the insignia of their rank. For example, people now could easily tell you are an inductee, but if you had the insignia of a Captain they would know you're actually a fellow. If a Tozama had such a rank, then it could be assumed they are actually a second-in-command of a higher ranking fellow."

"I see…"

"Then, the same goes for what is expected for them to do." Her smile waned, her tone also became dulled. "Someone from the Fudai will be encouraged to take action if everyone else nearby is of lower rank, and if that person were to behave in an unsightly manner, it would be easy to notice. In this way, since we are a small organization divided into other five smaller organizations we have all of our members watching each other's back, for supporting one's fellows and notifying their wrongdoings."

Constant surveillance, all to push everyone to not slack off and do their share without any room for mistakes. I knew some people usually kept staring at us, but I thought it was more due to my presence, and the fact that we are the main squadron of the Castle.

"In this way, your presence has allowed us to notice a… most shameful side of our fellows." She grimaces. "I can only apologize for the taxing situations you must have been enduring all this time."

"N-No, it's fine Yohime-sama. So, um, I was some sort of bait to snuff out troublemakers?"

"Well, one could say that. When many people in the ranks begin to cover each other's back to their own benefit, it bring harm to the overall structure. While it wasn't intended, your presence and performance brought to light quite a few…" She narrowed her eyes, sending a jolt down my back. "…unpleasant views in some of our fellows."

"I see… But still, it seems like a small matter compared to all you're doing for me and Takeru."

"I have deemed you worthy, as has done my lord husband. As our fellow, I ask you to receive these favors open handed, and to continue working as you have been until now."

…She called me a fellow. Despite the fact that I am still an inductee. I breath in, knowing the pleasant talk might as well be over. Still feeling the jolt running a race on my back, I lick my lips and look straight into Yohime-sama's eyes.

"Yohime-sama, might I ask why you referred to me as a fellow?"

"Hm? Because you are one of us, of course."

"But I am only an inductee, I am not part of your fellowship." And technically, I'm loaned from the IJA until further notice.

"I believed a proposal had been made available to you?"

"…Well, Col. Tsukuyomi did say something of the sort. However, there is something that… worries me about this situation." I gulp, let out some air and feel small painful pokes in my stomach. "If I do become a vassal, then it will be expected from Takeru to also serve your house, is that correct?"

"Yes, that is the case."

"Well… Sigh… In that case, I will have to decline the offer."

"Might I ask the reasons?" Her smile disappeared like snow upon reaching the floor, yet her voice was as cold as it could get.

"I… I've been living for my family's wellbeing, Yohime-sama." I look down, towards my hands as I entwine my fingers, resting them on the table. "I don't want Takeru to go through what I had to. I know that all you've done might have been with the idea that I was going to become a fellow… And if that is the case I cannot apologize enough. But my son's future is my priority, and I don't want him to be forced to fight. I want him to choose what he wants in his life once he is old enough. Therefore, well…"

"Is the matter a monetary one, perhaps?"

"Huh?"

"Would you be wishing to acquire an exemption draft for Takeru, and because of this you would prefer to work for…" She closed her eyes, bringing a finger to an edge of her lips. "…someone that gave you a better reward for your services?"

"No, that's not it."

"Are you displeased in your position, then?"

"No, it's not that either."

"Do you… favor another Regent, perchance?"

"Of course not, Yohime-sama. I am truly grateful for all the chances Takahisa-sama has given me, I am not displeased in-"

"Then, why not accept our proposal?" She leaned forward, narrowing her eyes.

"…I said so a moment ago. If I accept, Takeru would be forced to serve the Guard."

"I believe he does admire the Royal Guard, however?"

"I… I just…" I close my eyes tightly, sinking my fingers into their lock. Remembering our last day together, I had to choke on air to prevent some tears from running away.

"Shirogane, what is the source of such worry?"

"…My apologies, Yohime-sama. I already said what I wanted to."

"Please, do not think yourself capable of beguiling me." She scolded me, leaning back into her seat. "What is ailing you to such lengths? I would rather not have to deliver such awful news to Takahisa-sama tonight, between your negative and your current complexion."

"I… well… It's a personal matter, I don't think it proper to push this onto your shoulders."

"I would rather not have to use my station to force you to speak… So, please feel free to confide in me if anything is troubling you." She smiled again, sweetly and kindly.

I let out some air as I relaxed onto my seat, the laugh of the kids seeming to be fading away.

"…I swore to my wife that… I would protect Takeru, no matter what. I know he might choose to join the Guard on his own, but I don't want to force that choice on him. I don't want to have him lose all I had to lose in these years. And since I am pilot, it might be expected of him to follow in my footsteps and… I don't want that for him."

"However, if Takeru becomes the son of a fellow of mine, then he could be given a fine career path from under the options available in the fellowship, isn't that right?"

"And that would be equal to me forcing the path on Takeru when he is but a child. I already am an absent parent, what kind of guardian would I be if I also took his freedom from him?"

For what was but an instant, Yohime-sama's hands shook unnaturally. She closed her eyes for a long time, caressing her hair. I thought I had angered her, spitting in the face of her goodwill, yet when she opened her eyes she was still emanating that kind glow she had for the most part of our talk.

"…I am glad to hear you harbor such thoughts for your son. And with all the more reason, I must insist that you become our fellow, Shirogane."

"Huh? Yohime-sama, forgive my rudeness, but I just said that-"

"Your main concern is taking your son's freedom, as well as having him fall on the wrong hands should something happen to you, am I correct?"

"Yes. That's correct."

"Well, if you become our fellow, you would be giving us a… connection to use to safeguard Takeru if the worst comes to pass."

"I… well, I don't really know much of how the child care services work, but I'm sure it must not be easy for a Regent to… well, prevent Takeru from ending up in the wrong place."

"Worry not, we have ample resources. We shall find a way to keep him safe while not compromising our standing, I assure you of it." Her voice could tear through a TSF with sheer willpower, it was enough to make me unconsciously give her a nod, to which she smiled. "And also, while we shall look over him, I will make sure Takeru isn't forced into any path by anyone. He shall choose his own future himself, and he won't be forcefully inducted. The money you earn will also remain on his name, so that if he doesn't wish to stay in the fellowship he has the option to leave whenever he desires."

"However… Why would you go so far? To give me such special treatment, to protect Takeru in such a way… I don't know if I'm worth your trust, or your expectations of me."

"Well, you have already helped me in a very… delicate matter." She again closed her eyes, her tone slowing down as her hands rested onto the table.

"I… I have?"

"Yes… It is thanks to you that, perhaps, the night will one day set in this house once more."

"…What?"

"Worry not, I was merely thinking aloud." She waved a hand in the air, then sighed. What… caused her to show this much worry? Something I did… Something related to the night… No, don't have a clue. "So, I swear to you on my name that I shall make sure your son remains safe in case you were to perish. And he won't be made to follow any path forcefully, Takeru shall choose his own road himself."

"I… see." It's obvious she is being honest, she isn't even veering her gaze a little, and she spoke with such serenity, but also sounding firm.

"However, for me to be able to do what little I can, I would need you to officially become our fellow. And that comes with certain… responsibilities."

"I won't be able to return to the IJA, I will have to swear my loyalty to your house and mind my actions in public from now on, even when I'm not actively serving the House."

"Indeed. Your son will also have the choice to work for us, even if not as a Royal Guard. However, in your case, you shall become a vassal of this House, and will have to be always at the ready for our orders, even if it is during your breaks. Your military achievements will also fall under the Koubuin House's effects from now on."

"…I think I always did that, however."

"Is that so?"

"Yes, all the data I generated, all the test courses me and my squadmates designed and tested were given to Takahisa-sama himself back at the Castle." I thought that was the standard rule.

"Hehe… It isn't hard to see why he has you in such high esteem."

"I just thought that was what I had to do, since I am working under Takahisa-sama."

"Well, but there are others who would have tried to remain as the main beneficiary of such developments, or sell the data in the black market, however."

"Has that happened in the past?" She nods, seeming to be really angry now.

"More times than I'd like to recall. Many are the ones who insist on having their names be featured in what little achievements they generate." She let out some air, I relaxed once she seemed to have calmed down, a hand cruising through her long hair. "However, it is good to see your hesitation was not because of an inconvenience but generated by your duty as a parent. Such protective thoughts are what we need in our fellows, so that they can serve the people as well as they could. So, allow me to ask again… Would you be willing to become our fellow, Shirogane?"

"…You truly won't force Takeru to join the Royal Guard?"

"If he joins us, it will be on his own wishes. I shall keep him safe, it is the least I can do as your Regent's wife." She smiled while entwining her fingers. "Yuuhi would also be truly saddened if anything happened to him, so it is in my best interest to have Takeru be safe as well." She looks towards the kids and I do too.

Yuuhi-sama and Takeru seemed to be arguing about something, her pouting again with narrowed eyes. …It seems he won the card game to eat the last bit of strawberry ice cream and now she's upset. It's not like with Sumika, it's a more quiet, one sided argument, with Yuuhi-sama unmoving in her position, but still not angry or anything. Because she's still talking with him, she isn't ignoring or being mean to him.

"…They do seem to get along well."

"Indeed they do." Yohime-sama giggled as her daughter practically dragged Takeru to the Shogi table for a match to 'win the ice cream', Takeru scratching his head as he complains that they can share the ice cream, to which Yuuhi-sama seems to stall a reaction, only to then lightly chop his shoulder. "So… Would you be willing to join our fellowship, Shirogane?"

I close my eyes and breathe in, then set my sights on Takeru, who waves at me when he notices I'm looking. I wave back and remain gazing at him as he begins to play Shogi with Yuuhi-sama.

"…You truly will look after him if I die, Yohime-sama?"

"…Yes. I know the pressure that… one feels at the prospect of losing one's own flesh and blood. I will make sure Takeru remains safe if the worst comes to pass."

"No one will force him to… endure those whispers I've had to endure?"

"No, and I shall be taking action to banish such attitudes from my fellowship. I know you perhaps might not see your actions with much worth, but you have earned such an honor. You can place your trust in me, I shall protect Takeru. He will always have a place under my care."

"Then… It will be an honor to serve you with my life, Yohime-sama. All I ask is for you to keep watch over Takeru, as you've said you would." I bow to her, finally relaxing my shoulders and losing the tension that was in my stomach.

"On the contrary, it is a pleasure to welcome you into my fellowship, Shirogane." She smiled at me, wider than before. "Please do keep supporting my lord husband as you have done until now."

"Yes, milady."