Chapter 2 – A Promise

Shuurei was awestruck upon entering the palace. However, she couldn't keep her mind off of Seiran. She was worried about him, and her instincts told her that Grand Master Shou Taishi had no intentions of keeping his promise to her.

As they walked the halls to a destination unknown to Shuurei, a man in full body-armor came running up to them. "Grand Master Shou Taishi, I deeply apologize for my disturbance, but I have been sent to tell you that the doctors are prepared for the injured man."

"I see. My men are bringing him through the back entrance of the palace. I trust that you will see to it," Shou informed the armored man. As the man hurried away, Shou turned his attention to Shuurei. "See? He will be getting the medical attention that he needs. You may relax."

Shuurei eyed him suspiciously. She knew that she couldn't trust this man at all. Instead of replying, she narrowed her eyes at him.

Shou Taishi didn't say anything, but instead continued walking. After several more minutes of walking in tense silence, he stopped in front of a large, red door. He opened it, and gracefully walked in. A little hesitant, she followed at a distance.

At the end of the room sat two older men. One had white hair and matching white facial hair, while the other man had shorter, darker hair and a dark, scruffy beard. She noticed that there was an elaborate empty chair separating the two men. She found herself watching Shou Taishi make his way gracefully to the unoccupied chair.

Shuurei gasped once she realized what she was looking at. These two men, along with Grand Master Shou Taishi, made up the Three Masters of the Royal Court. She suddenly felt like she had to apologize for walking in on their council. "Grand Protector Sa Taiho, Grand Master Sou Taihaku, I deeply apologize for interrupting your council! If you will excuse me!"

Shuurei turned and hurriedly started to leave. However, before she could get far, a gentle voice stopped her.

"Please wait, Kou Shuurei," the white-haired man, also known as Grand Protector Sa Taiho, called out to her. "The reason we gathered in this room today is to discuss your stay in this palace. We request for you to stay here and educate the emperor until he has become qualified for his position. Of course, you will be paid for your services."

Shuurei stopped and turned back around to face them once again. "I have already informed Grand Master Shou Taishi that I accept the proposition on the condition that Seiran gets the medical attention that he deserves."

"Oh? Is that so? Shou, you did something unnecessary again, didn't you?" Grand Protector Sa Taiho said, seemingly amused.

"I only serve the emperor, and am willing to use everything in my power to get what is in his best interests," Shou said, lowering his head like a scolded child.

"You should really consult with the rest of us before you go do something like that again, Shou," Grand Master Sou Taikaku spoke up.

"Of course, Sou. I will be sure to remember that in the future."

Shuurei had the feeling that they had forgotten she was still standing in the room. "Excuse me..." Shuurei started, trying to get their attention.

"Ah, Kou Shuurei, I have already had a room prepared for you," Shou Taishi said as he started towards the door behind her. "Come with me, I will show you to your room."

She bowed to the other two Masters of the Royal Court, turned, and followed Shou Taishi out the door. When they were a few steps away from the door, Shou started to apologize. "I did not mean any ill will towards you nor Seiran. Please understand my position here in the palace. I serve the emperor and have dedicated my life for him. All I wish is for him to become the emperor he is capable of."

Shuurei understood his position, but she was still against his use of force. She knew his was just trying to do his job and nurture a proper emperor.

As she was lost in thought, trying to think of something to say, she did not see the green haired man quickly approaching her.