Slow week filled with deadlines and aggravating issues at work. Though it's been a productive weekend for me. I wrote a new story line for Uta-Pri fans, I can't wait to finish that. Plus, I've been jotting down stuff on this work as well, nothing concrete yet, just bits and pieces. It's hard to keep track of writing when my concentration is divided into several stuff.

I hope you guys have a good week ahead. Three weeks til my vacation starts. Any suggestion for Berlin, Vienna and Munich? :P

Title: A Wall in Between

Inspired by: Chapter 36 of the Manga Akagami ni Shirayukihime

Character: Izana Wistalia, Shirayuki

Wordcount: 568

Rating: General

"I told you not to come." My voice is all silky with thinly veiled irritation. Glancing at the red-haired woman standing beside me, she did not react with the tone of my voice.

"Yes," my brother bowed, "I apologize. I'll head back as soon as I'm done."

"Good to see you again, Mistress." Zen's messenger, Obi walked up next to Zen, eyes twinkling.

"Hello, Obi." Shirayuki gave a faint smile. She looked a little relieve to see her friends- the people that are close to her.

"Are you alright?" Obi asked in a low tone. "And Master Ryuu?"

"We are both fine, Obi. Thank you for asking."

I turned to face Zen. "Saturn Gate is closed."

My brother gripped the iron bars, looking worried. "You told me not come, and I surmised that things might get worse. I will tell those heading towards Lyrias to avoid Saturn and Oriold, and instead head to the Eastern checkpoint. Kiki and Mitsuhide are currently sending messengers to the other checkpoint to prepare for the influx of travelers."

Studying my brother, I contemplated a little. At least he understood my message to stay away from ground zero, lest he contracted the disease. And he took into account what matters that need to be settled while Lyrias is on a lockdown.

"If you have any further orders…" he asked seriously. "I intend to organize more soldiers to do the necessary road diversions."

I smiled slightly, pleased at this. "Then, I'll leave the East side to you."

Zen looked surprised and slightly relieved. For a moment, he probably thought that I won't trust him enough to do what is necessary. But I am pleased that I need not worry about travelers entering Oriold checkpoint and Saturn Gate. Zen and his followers can handle the logistics outside the second wall. "Yes, I will do what is needed."

I pulled the cloak I wore tightly around my person. Shirayuki and Obi both waited patiently for us to finish our interview. My brother has done splendidly well, and I cannot help but be generous. I can give them a little time alone. I still have a few days left to spend with Shirayuki without my brother around.

"Shirayuki, wait here. I will bring the horse around. We need to go to Allulionne Keep."

She nodded, and I turned on my heel. I could still hear Obi cautioning her about working too hard, and not to take risks.

I strode away, not interested to hear about what my brother has to say to Shirayuki. It's been days since they last saw each other. The least I can do is let Zen have a little reward. I still feel jealous, but do not want to be unreasonable to my only brother. Besides, Shirayuki considers him a close friend.

For the moment.

One of the soldiers who held Zephyr's reigns bowed when I approach. Nodding my thanks, I took the reigns from him and coaxed him to follow me. Zephyr obeyed. When I turned to clear the space between me and iron gates, I could see the two person standing face to face, talking in low tones. Obi stood at a discreet distance, minding the area while letting his master have some privacy.

As I neared, I saw Zen gently cupped Shirayuki's face before he smiled at her encouragingly. "Take care, Shirayuki. I leave my brother in your capable hands."