Author's Note: I had originally thought to make this chapter longer, but I never got back to it. I decided to move foward. The next part should be up in couple of days.

Just as his father had said, the gathering to celebrate Tetsumi's return went on as planned. The guest began arriving early in the morning, eager to partake in the festivities. Some of the older guests, who had seen Tetsumi as a child could scarcely believe their eyes. To quote one of the guests: "It's like looking into a mirror, isn't it Okita." Tetsumi did not want to believe it. In his eyes, he looked nothing like his father. How could he? Lord Okita was well past his fortieth birthday, possibly even older! As Tetsumi tried to get this thought out of his, his sister arrived.

What a sight she was. She still had the same pale skin and black hair that Tetsumi remembered so well. Next to her, her son, Chion was standing timidly by. The boy could not have been more than six, with straight hair and the type of skin that one gets when spending too much time in the sun. Tetsumi observed his nephew, noting that he looked more like Hitoshi than himself. Ruri some how escaped her mother's grip and walked toward her brothers. She still had the refined movements she showed when she was back home. Ruri just stood there, coming to grips with the idea that these two were the same brats she had left behind. Tetsumi had grown so much; already he was as tall as their father. And that face! It was like looking at her father's. Hitoshi was not far behind either! She hugged them for the first time in what seemed like ages. With the return of his sister, Tetsumi felt like this was truly home.

The remainder of the guests came in at various times of the day. Tetsumi did not bother with them, as he was anxious to see Iria. He wanted answers, and he was going to get them. He did not care if she had a husband. If push came to shove, then he would show everyone just what he had learned in the past five years. Fortunately, Iria and her husband did not arrive during the day. When enough of the guests arrived, Lord Okita announced the beginning of the festivities.

Lady Behina really did know how to throw a party. It was her idea, not her husband's to have this get-together. She and the kitchen staff made more than enough food for not only dinner, but also for anyone who was hungry before and afterwards. There was plenty of drink to be had, but she was careful to keep the "harder" drink to a minimum. She was not about to have a fight breakout in her home. This was a chance for many of them to get reacquainted with each other. Many lived far away, so this was a chance to catch up and relive old memories.

Everybody seemed to have a good time, expect the guest of honor. When not greeting guests, or being introduced to people that he had never seen, or wanted to see, Tetsumi eyes were fixed on the front door. If Iria was coming, he wanted to be the first to see her. Unfortunately, Tetsumi did not get his chance. His sister, seeing that he was distracted, came up to him, introducing him to one her old friend's younger sisters. While they were exchanging greetings, Iria and her husband showed up.

They were greeted by Lord Okita, who wished them to come in and enjoy themselves. She was dressed in a light red kimono with white rose petals running the length of her body. She wore a peony flower in her hair, which contrasted with her black hair. Tetsumi paid no attention to her husband, who did likewise. He watched her every move, his eyes moving were ever she did. Her husband was always behind her, showing her off to the many lord and ladies who were in attendance. What husband would not be proud to have Iria as his wife? She was beautiful, Tetsumi could not deny that. She knew what to say and always gave a good first impression. After spending some time watching her, Tetsumi finally decided that enough was enough; he had to go talk to her.

"Excuse me, sir. I did not notice you when you came in. Allow me to introduce my self. My name is Tetsumi."

Iria's eyes lit up, as if realizing who this person was.

"Tetsumi… Yes, you must be Lord Okita's son. I have heard much about you. My name is Lord Gouman. This is my wife, Iria."

"I know. Your wife and I grew up together. I did not know that she had someone like you as ahusband."

"What did you say?"

"Yes, my lord. Master Tetsumi and I did know each other, before he left. How have you been these past few years?"

"Fate has granted me good health, and that is all that I can ask for. When I knew that I would be returning, I had hoped to see my friends. It is a shame that all of them have left."

This comment struck Iria. Could he be talking about her?

"Yes, war is a terrible business, but necessary. I'm sure that you agree with me, Tetsumi."

"I am afraid that I do not, Lord Gouman. I fail to see what purpose the slaughter of hundreds of people could serve."

"Oh, come now. You can not possibly believe that we could live the way we do without some conflict arising?"

"Yes, conflict is inevitable, but there are other ways to deal with one's disagreements."

"So you are one of those bleeding hearts who believes that the world would be a much better place if we had no wars. I am surprised, that one of Lord Okita's sons would have such a weak stomach."

"Perhaps you would like to see just how weak of stomach I have for yourself?"

The two were now face to face, ready to come to blows, were it not for Lord Okita's arrival.

"Tetsumi! I see that you have met Lord Gouman and his wife. What were you two discussing that was so interesting?"

"Nothing, Father. The lord and I were just trading views on this world. Our conversation is over. If you all would excuse me, I have other matters to attend to."

Okay, this is a plea from me to you, the readers. I need reviews people! I know you're out there. I'm not saying that I'll stop if you don't, but as a writer, it's helpful when you get feedback. I'll even take flames at this point. But if you decided to flame, I will respond. You were warned.