The day had come. Today the king would address his citizens, officially making it public knowledge that the accursed were back, and announcing the champion candidates. For weeks, all sorts of rumors had been circulating about the accursed: what they had already done, and what they were planning. They ranged from pretty close to the truth to quite imaginative, in fact, Kyoko had heard the accursed blamed for more than one natural disaster.
Despite the hype, most people in the palace seemed to treat it like a spectacle, a far away terror that they could safely gossip about. They didn't see the accursed as a real problem. Occasionally those that had seen the destruction caused by the accursed, soldiers or generals that had returned with Kuu, would reprimand the staff for their flippant gossip, but all that served to do was give the attendants more to gossip about. All in all, the atmosphere as they waited for the start of the address was a bizarre mix. Some laughed and chatted away like it was all a big joke, others fidgeted and jumped at anything that surprised them.
The concubines belonged to the first group. They were all clustered together, chatting away, trying to appear like they were calm as they waited for the address to begin. Kyoko stood with them, but more towards the edge of the group. She couldn't stand being surrounded by them, even here, their fear was stifling. She did her best to ignore it and instead kept her eyes on the still empty balcony where Kuu would eventually appear. It was hard to believe how close she was to that balcony. Even a couple months ago, it would have been unimaginable to be seated in the "noble section" with the royal concubines, and a row of guards separating her from the "commoners." Crazy how fast life changed.
Kyoko glanced to her side, noticing Kanae standing with the rest of the guards. Her old outfit had been retired, and in its place she had been forced to wear a modified palace guard uniform. She now wore a red tunic with a new leather chest plate and vambraces. It had been custom made since she was the first female guard in decades. Kyoko thought she looked beautiful in the outfit, her three sectioned ponytail, and sharp eyes created a beautiful yet terrifying appearance. Kanae hadn't been happy with the comment, or the new clothes.
At least she's recovered. thought Kyoko. She wished Kanea could be closer to her, but Lory had wanted to wait a week before Kanae officially became Kyoko's personal guard, just in case there were any complications in her recovery. Until then, the Ishibashi boys were continuing to rotate guard duties with each other.
As she continued to stare, Kanae felt her gaze and looked over. Kyoko sent her a cheery wave, which she returned by furrowing her brow in her Kanae attempt to not smile. It just made Kyoko smile more. Accursed or no, she was happy to have her friend back.
"Was she the one that survived against the dark djinn?"
Yumi had removed herself from the group of chattering girls to talk to Kyoko, Risa trailing behind her.
"You're well informed as usual Yumi." Said Kyoko. "But I wonder how exaggerated those rumors are."
"You get used to sorting through what's real and what's hype." Said Yumi waving her hand in a dismissive way, eyes fixed on Kanae. "The ones on her were especially difficult to obtain. Apparently she doesn't have many friends. Especially not ones I'd be able to talk to." Yumi's gaze slipped from Kanae to Kyoko and seemed to be sizing her up. "You were supposedly there during that attack as well."
Kyoko smiled lightly. That was supposed to be top secret. "If the accursed were as skilled as you at intelligence gathering, I think we'd probably lose this war." Said Kyoko, her thoughts slipping out uninvited.
Risa, who had just been listening to their conversation gave a laugh. "I think that's the most creative back handed compliment I've heard about you yet Yumi."
Yumi ignored her.
"I certainly hope someone in the palace knows more than I do." Said Yumi. "There's too much going on. Even I can't keep track of it." She shook her head. "Do you know two of the candidates had to be re-chosen after the original ones were killed on the way here? Talk about dangerous."
Kyoko actually did. The scroll she had read with Kanae had explained a lot of things. That, and her shadow guard kept her updated on any new information they thought she should know. She actually felt honored at the amount they had decided to divulge.
"Hey, just be glad we have any champions." Said Risa, shivering slightly. "Just thinking about the accursed gives me the creeps. I'm glad it's not my responsibility to fight them. If I ever run into one, I can smile charmingly and run the other way."
Their conversation was cut short as the crowd roared into life. Kuu had come out onto the platform, waving at the people. It seemed everyone in the kingdom was there, cheering at sight of their king. Kuu was dressed in stately attire, jewels and fine cloths draped around him. Kuon also entered with his father, along with several other men Kyoko didn't know and a woman with gold hair. That was most likely Julie, the king's wife. The two stood behind Kuu as he held up his hands, calling for the crowd to quiet down.
"People of Ashuron," he said, voice magically booming over the streets. "As your king, and as one blessed by the light, it is my greatest pleasure to greet you this day. In my years as your king, I have seen it as my duty to bring peace and prosperity to our lands. With your help we have ended the wars of our forefathers and made peace with our neighbors. We have grown in the number of light magic users, and have been favored by the phoenix."
Kuu paused, allowing for the cheers that had started up to die down. He waited another moment before continuing.
"But now, we as a nation are faced with an enemy: our oldest and most vicious enemy. I have called this assembly today to inform you, my citizens, that the dark Djinn and the Accursed are once again working to destabilize our nation."
Thousands of voices gasped, murmuring and unrest rippled through the crowd like wildfire. Kyoko's own heart felt uneasy now that the secret was out.
The king must have seen this unrest. She could practically see the fire of Rosa burning in Kuu's countenance.
"My people," he said, his voice cutting into their fear. "I know this is hard to take in. The Dark Djinn and the accursed are the things of nightmare, tales to scare small children, and yet it is true. They have been responsible for many deaths in the country side, and also for the death of some here in our capital."
The murmuring was growing again, and Kyoko couldn't help sending a worried glance towards Kanae. The warrior was scouting the area, watching everyone closely.
"The kingdom that we have built together is in danger." continued Kuu over the noise. "We as a nation cannot allow darkness and fear to corrupt our lives. In order to combat this rising threat, we have called on the seven dukedoms to each bring forth a champion to receive Rosa's blessing."
Kuu motioned to one of the men Kyoko didn't recognize. The man stepped up beside Kuu, hand gripping his sword hilt and head held high before the crowd.
"The Takarada family presents their champion, Kuroshi. He has agreed to accept the Phoenix's blessing and partake in this battle against the accursed."
The crowd continued to buzz with conversation, a few sections giving smattered applause. It seemed most were still worried about what they had been told.
"I can't believe he really told everyone." muttered Yumi. "I just hope he can control the panic."
"He can." Said Kyoko, confident. She had only met Kuu once, but she didn't doubt him. As the king continued to present the different champions, a question occurred to her.
"The champions tend to be good fighters correct?" asked Kyoko.
"Generally speaking." Said Yumi. "Especially since they fight the accursed directly. They also tend to pick good strategists or supporters, but that's not the case this time."
"Then why wasn't Shin chosen to be a champion?" asked Kyoko
Yumi gave her an incredulous look.
"Shin? A champion? That would be a disastrous idea."
"Why?" asked Kyoko.
"Because he's a lazy sleazebag." Said Yumi, shaking her head. "He's never where he's supposed to be, doesn't train, never fulfils his duties and runs through women faster than cobra venom. Every rumor about him states that he's lazy, irresponsible and indulgent."
Kyoko noticed something move and saw from the corner of her eye that Kanae was shaking her head slightly. Apparently her friend was listening in and silently protesting the statement.
"But he's a good fighter isn't he?" said Kyoko. "Doesn't the kingdom need champions that can fight against the accursed?"
Yumi let out a snort. "As if that man has ever been in a real life and death situation. He's a good duelist, but only because he plays dirty and has more talent than is good for him. I wouldn't want him as a champion. They'd never choose him anyway. He's too valuable as a light magic user."
"What does that have to do with anything?" asked Kyoko.
"You really don't know much about this do you?" said Yumi.
Kyoko kept her mouth shut. About the accursed, thanks to the scroll she knew more than almost anyone in the kingdom. When it came to the champions and their own assets, she was utterly lacking.
"First off, the champions are usually selected from the seven duke families." Said Yumi, motioning to the group on the platform. "It's a tradition honoring the original seven companions of the first king Hikari Hizuri when he defeated the Djinn and formed this kingdom. Shin is a member of the royal family, thus negating the possibility for him to become a champion as he isn't related to any of the duke families."
"Second. Because of the unique binding magic of this contract with the phoenix, Rosa exchanges the user's arcane magic with light magic. In other words, they lose their arcane magic, and in exchange they get a new ability: a weapon and massive amounts of power. For people like Shin that already have powerful light magic and good control over their arcane magic, it would actually be more of a hindrance to become a champion."
"Wow, you know a lot about this." said Kyoko.
"You learn a lot of things when you pay attention." Said Yumi, twirling a piece of her hair between her fingers, looking proud of herself. "It actually caused contention for some families, since they don't want to lose their arcane abilities. Most of the duke families have some royal blood in their veins so they can already wield light magic."
"Is that why some of them don't look too happy?" asked Kyoko, watching as the last champion was introduced.
Yumi grimaced. "That would be the champion for the Shimada family. They were one of the two that had to pick a champion last minute since the first one was killed on the way here."
That did not sound good. Kyoko couldn't bring herself to clap along with the crowd as the seven champions stood together, resolute to take up the office of defenders against the accursed. Instead, she clasped her hands together, sending a silent plea for their protection.
Kuu again stepped forward.
"My people," he said. "we must be united as one against this threat. The darkness cannot be defeated without light, and these brave warriors are willing to face that nightmare. These seven champions and Rosa will work to fight the Djinn, but we as a nation are the ones that will stop darkness from spreading to our hearts. We will not let them control us with fear!"
Kuu rose his fist, his voice becoming stronger, rising with the crowd as they fed off of his enthusiasm. Kyoko could practically feel the light and passion burning from Kuu.
"We must come together and support one another! We cannot live in fear, or we have lost. We cannot lose hope, or we have lost. I have spent time with you, I know the fire of Rosa burns in the soul of each citizen. We are strong of heart, and we will survive this war against the darkness, but only if we fight together. We are Ashuron, we do not bow to darkness!"
The sound of the people was defining. They raised their voices and fist along with Kuu, shouting their support. Most of the nobles joined in as well, poor and rich alike rising their fists in unity. Kyoko herself felt giddy, heart pumping after the speech. Her eyes found Kuon, watching as he stood behind his dad, and she could tell he felt the excitement as well.
As soon as the speech was over, Kyoko ran over to Kanae. Shinichi and Yuusei were both standing to the side, giving them privacy as she pulled her friend aside. They walked slowly back towards the palace, careful to avoid the crowds that passed by, most still riled up from the speech.
"So what do you think?" she asked.
"I'm uneasy." said Kanae. "We had maximum security, but I'm surprised that the accursed didn't try to do something during that speech, especially after what we found out about them."
"True." Said Kyoko, frowning in thought. "At least the people responded well to the news."
She couldn't help thinking about how easy it would have been for the accursed to spread panic, much like their plan with the tournament and the seeds. Were they still recuperating from their loss like the scroll suggested?
"Hey, Kyoko." Said Kanae, hesitant. "Have you ever considered moving away from the palace?"
Kyoko paused, more concerned with Kanae's tone than the question. Kanae never sounded uncertain.
"Why do you ask?" said Kyoko.
"It's obviously dangerous here." Said Kanae. "And the accursed have already targeted you once. It would be much safer for you to leave. Why have you stayed?"
"Because it's my home." She said simply. "It's where everyone I love is. I can't abandon them just because I'm scared."
"Does that include the prince?"
Kyoko's face twitched.
"When I say love Kanae, I hope you understand that it's in a family sense. I don't have the ability to form any sort of romantic attachment anymore."
At least, she didn't have to confidence to do so. She might be in love with the prince, but she would never do anything about it. The last thing she wanted was to lose everything she had because of that stupid emotion. It had destroyed her once; she wasn't going to repeat that mistake.
Kanae watched her for a moment before nodding to herself.
"If you say so." Said Kanae, "Can't say I blame you. There's not much room for silly things like romance in my line of work."
"Good." said Kyoko, grabbing one of Kanae's arms and hugging it to her. She smiled warmly at her friend. "Then I won't have to share my best friend with anyone!"
"Mo! I'm not your best friend!"
The next morning, Kyoko entered the clinic, unable to keep the wide smile off her face. It had only been a few days since she had started working here, not as an apprentice, but as a fully-fledged physician. Lory had been kind enough to hire her, giving Kyoko her own office and everything! A part of her swelled in pride knowing that she had achieved what her father and Ren had pushed her to do. The pin shone brightly above her heart. The novelty of it still hadn't worn off.
The waiting room was already starting to fill with patients, despite the early morning. It was a public clinic after all. One of the differences between the palace clinic and a normal town one was the sheer number of physicians and staff that worked there to accommodate the seemingly unending number of patients. Only certain sections of the clinic were set aside for the wealthy that could afford specialists.
As she strode into the connecting corridors, she checked in with Sawara.
"Good morning!" she said happily. "How are you doing today?"
"Good morning Kyoko." He said. "I'm well thank you. I'm glad you're here. Duke Takarada just gave me this to hand you."
"What is it?" said Kyoko taking the proffered item.
It was a letter. She opened it, a smile spreading across her face as she read it.
"It states that my cleric training starts on the 14th, right after the selection ceremony with the champions." She said. "It seems like with everything happening with the accursed, they're are training more people to heal with light magic, even those that aren't full physicians."
"That's incredible." Said Sawara, "I still can't believe that you're going to be studying to be a cleric. I guess Lory expects big things from you."
"I'll do my best to work up to those expectations." Said Kyoko, determined.
Sawara gave a chuckle. "Well let's get started for the day why don't we? You've already got a patient waiting for you in your room."
"Alone?" said Kyoko, turning to look down the hall at the door that lead to her clinic room. The door was shut, meaning the patient had privacy. "How long have they been waiting?"
"No idea." He said with a shrug. "I just arrived here myself, but one of the staff told me to let you know. Apparently they wanted to see you and no one else."
That was interesting. Usually it was the other way around; people wanted to see anyone but her. Though, now that she thought about it, it had been a while since she had heard anyone say that. Maybe her reputation was finally changing now that she was officially a physician.
"I'll see them immediately." Said Kyoko. "Thanks Sawara. For everything!"
He waved her off before she walked down the hall to her office. Her office. That still sounded so nice.
Kyoko entered the room, the smile on her face as she closed the door and turned to her patient. Immediately she felt blinded. The overwhelmingly brilliant aura the woman exuded was matched only by her beauty and serenity. Straight posture, delicate hands crossed before her and azure eyes pieced Kyoko, and rooted her to the spot. Long golden curls had been combed back and pinned to perfection with jewels and beads. Combined with her strong chin and curvy figure, it was safe to assume that Kyoko had never seen such a magnificent woman in her whole life. She was both ethereal and familiar all at once.
Someone cleared their throat, bringing Kyoko out of her daze. The woman was staring at her, head cocked slightly to one side, amusement glittering in her eyes.
"Well?" said the woman.
Even her voice sounded like a chorus of bells. Kyoko shook herself before she fell into a stupor once again.
"Ah, excuse me." She said, giving a hurried curtsy. "I was so stunned by your beauty that I lost myself for a moment."
"My beauty?" said the woman, blinking for a moment.
"Of course!" said Kyoko, unable to stop herself. "Your presence is like stream of clear water in the harsh desert, a respite for the parched and weary." She wouldn't be surprised if the woman had some fairy blood in her. She was still staring when Kyoko finally remembered herself.
"Ah, I'm sorry about that." Said Kyoko. "I'm your physician, Kyoko Mogami, but please, just call me Kyoko."
"It's quite alright." Said the woman. "If you don't mind me asking, do you know who I am?"
"I'm afraid I don't." said Kyoko. "I'd remember meeting someone like you. You do seem familiar, but I can't say that we've ever met face to face before. Perhaps I have seen you from a distance. Are you a resident of the palace?"
"I am now." Said the woman, smiling as if she was enjoying a private joke. "It is no matter. I wanted to meet you Kyoko after hearing so much about you. You've become quite famous after all."
"You wanted to meet me?" said Kyoko, her mood slowly dropping. Her instincts told her such a beautiful woman could never have ill intentions, but she was instantly on guard. "Are you not here for a medical exam?"
"I am not."
"Then I'm afraid you'll have to come back at another time."
Though Kyoko felt bad sending her away, she couldn't relent. Several people had already come in the last few week, claiming to need medical attention and then bombarding Kyoko with questions about being a concubine. It had wasted a lot of time, and Kyoko had learned to send people away when they didn't have some sort of medical need.
The woman's eyebrows shot up. "You're sending me away?"
"I'm flattered that you came to meet me." Said Kyoko, plastering on a profession smile. "But this time is set apart for those needing care. I can set an appointment for us to meet and talk later if you'd like."
"I'm not leaving." Said the woman, folding her arms with a huff. "Besides. I do need medical help. I'm dying."
"Are you now?" Said Kyoko, skeptical. "Do you know what you have? What are your symptoms?"
The woman then bent her head, hair falling like a curtain, covering her face as she placed a hand dramatically on her forehead. Her voice became low as she somberly said "It doesn't have a name, but I don't have much time. I can feel it in my soul. Everyday my life force becomes weaker, slowly pulling me towards my maker."
"Well that sounds serious." Said Kyoko, walking over to her cabinet and opening it. "Let's begin immediately."
"Eh?"
The woman lifted her head, blue eyes wide in confusion. "Begin what?" she said.
"The tests."
Kyoko pulled out a large vat of liquid, pouring it into a cup. The mixture sloshed in the container, thick and shiny. She then held it out, a challenge in her smile now. The woman shied back as she eyed the green fluid.
"Drink this." said Kyoko. "It will clear everything out of your system. We have a privy down the hall where you can do your business."
"You must be crazy!" Said the woman. "I'm not drinking that."
"You have to. I need to be thorough to determine what illness you have."
"Then give me something else."
"Alright. Should we move onto the shots then?"
"Shots?"
The woman leapt to her feet, gesturing around. "Aren't there other types of magical items you can use?"
"Oh, but these are the best." Said Kyoko eyes shining with feigned innocence. "I want to give you the best care I can provide and I find these methods more accurate. Please, let me help you find out what is making you ill."
"You know what." Said the woman, holding up a finger. "I just remembered something. I'm not dying anymore. Lory helped me and I'm all better now."
"I'm so glad to hear that." Said Kyoko. "If you are not ill, then I will see you at another time."
Kyoko set down the drink, opening the door and gesturing out of it. The woman didn't get the hint. She sat back down, crossing her arms and holding her chin high.
"I'm not leaving." She said.
Kyoko was starting to get impatient. Her plastic smile faltered as her irritation started to peak through.
"Don't make me come over there and drag you out of here." She said.
Now the challenge was in the woman's eye as she leveled a glare at Kyoko.
"I'd like to see you try." She said.
"Fine."
Kyoko stepped out of the room and shut the door on the woman's surprised face. She then leaned back against the wall, activating a spell programed into name plate by the door. After five minutes, Kyoko had to admit, the woman was stubborn. Most people had come out seconds after she had activated the spell. A few physicians and patients passed by, confused at her behavior.
"Kyoko? What are you up to?"
This time it was Lory who approached. He held several scrolls, a large multicolored bird with a large thick beak perched on his shoulder. It was definitely foreign.
"Duke Takarada." Said Kyoko, straightening and giving a quick curtsy "I'm waiting for my patient to come out. I've been having problems with people wasting my time so I-"
Her sentence was cut off as the woman burst form the door, sticking her head out and taking a large haggard breath. From the open door oozed a foul pungent odor that instantly made Kyoko's eyes water. Wow, no one had ever waited that long before. Kyoko quickly cut off the spell, most of the smell disappearing.
"Were you trying to kill me?" asked the woman, eyes on Kyoko.
"I'm not sure what you mean." Said Kyoko, smiling again. "But now that you're here, let's get you checked out at the front."
"Oh no." the woman advanced on Kyoko. "I came for answers and I'm going to get them. You can't get rid of me that easily."
"Perhaps not." Said Kyoko, nodding behind the woman. "But I'm sure Duke Takarada wouldn't mind showing you the way out."
Rather than the surprise and fear Kyoko expected the woman so show, her face erupted into the brilliant smile and aura she had been exuding when Kyoko had first come in the room. She whipped around to see Lory, the change in attitude jarring.
"Lory! Perfect. I'm glad I could see you." She said. "I want to talk to this woman and she refuses to oblige me. Just what are you teaching your employees?"
"To do their job." Said Lory, looking amused. "Your highness, it's bad enough that you're in here every other week 'dying,' and now you're harassing my employees? If you want to pester her about Kuon don't do it while she's on the clock."
"I don't want to pester her about Kuon." Said the woman, sounding highly affronted. "I just want to ask her some questions about him is all."
"That's the same thing."
"Your highness?"
Lory and the woman - who was apparently the queen - both turned to look at Kyoko who now resembled a statue. Her face had drained of all color and was frozen in a look of horror.
"Y-you're the queen?" stuttered Kyoko. "I just…. to the queen..."
"Yes, I'm Julie Hizuri." Said Julie, smirking to herself. "Wow, it's been a long time since I've had to introduce myself to any-"
"I'M SO SORRY!"
Kyoko prostrated herself, a constant stream of apologies issuing from her mouth as she tried to express her regrets.
"I had no idea that I was addressing one such as yourself! I should have figured after taking a look at your aura! I'm such an idiot, please forgive me for pulling such a prank on you, even though you wouldn't leave and kept wasting my time it was wrong of me to treat you like that!"
"You really need to work on your apologizing skills." Said Lory, picking Kyoko off the ground by the back of her jacket. She was a mess, thin as paper as she hung in the air. Maybe if she kept shrinking she'd disappear.
"I really am sorry." Said Kyoko as she hung her head, heedless of the attention their group was starting to get. People were sticking their heads out of their rooms, wondering what had caused Kyoko to burst into wails this time.
"Ah, um" Julie cleared her throat, awkwardly patting Kyoko on the head. "It's fine just…I'll forgive you if you do one thing for me."
Kyoko's heart leapt in joy. Her head whipped up, her mood instantly springing back to face the challenge. She wriggled out of Lory's grasp to clasp her hands in front of Julie, eyes sparkling in determination.
"Ask away your highness, and I will do anything to make it up to you." Said Kyoko.
"Anything?"
Julie tapped a finger against her chin in thought before her lips spread into a grin.
"I have the perfect thing."
One of the nice things about being a personal body guard in the palace was having access to the best training facilities. Technically, Kanae was supposed to be resting, but she had found that idleness delayed healing just as much as over taxing oneself. She'd rather risk the latter than the former.
However, she hadn't anticipated every single person to decline training with her just because she was a woman. The place was full, men and weapons lining the area as they sparred and trained. There were more than fifty people in here, yet not one of them had agreed to let her train with them. Hadn't she proven herself in the battle royal, fighting and finishing in second place? As she looked around the large training area, she noticed that many of those training hadn't participated. Perhaps they still believed themselves above Kanae, thinking that if a woman could come in second place, then the tournament must have been pathetic.
At least, that's what the guy a few yards away had whispered to his friend, shaking his head in disbelief.
Idiots. The lot of them.
"Now now, Kanae." said a voice behind her. "If you scowl like that, how are you going to make friends? Don't you know a smile is the cheapest way for a woman to improve her looks?"
Kanae only moved her eyes, narrowing as they tracked Shin's progress from her side and drew closer to her. When had he come in?
"I'm not here to make friends Shin." She said. "I'm here to train."
"But don't you know? A smile is just as much a weapon as a spear is."
"I have no need of that expression."
Kanae lifted the spear resting on her shoulder, marching away from Shin to find a new place to train. Unfortunately, the man started following her.
"With an attitude like that it's no wonder no one wants to train with you." said Shin, spinning around and walking backwards. That irritating smile was plastered on his face like always. "Who wants to be sneered at? Well, with your lovely face both expressions are striking, but not everyone has good taste."
She ignored him, finding a new space in the training area that was free. She glared at him so that he knew to stand back before she whipped her spear in the air, preparing for her warm up. She shut out the people around her, focusing on her core, the circulation of her energy and essence in her body. It responded, a little felt shaky from her injuries as it renewed her with the force and energy. She began moving through her forms, thrusting her spear and weaving it through her hands. Her feet slowly changed positions, dragging and shifting across the ground between stances.
Kanae concentrated on her breathing, focusing on her core and essence. Only when all was in perfect harmony could one reach the pinnacle of their abilities, and Kanae had yet to hit her cap. She still lacked the complete control she craved.
As she continued to train, her mind prickled due to a constant irritant.
The idiot was still there
He was standing near the edge of the training area, watching her silently with those dark eyes. She ignored him, working through her motions and exercises. She did this for several minutes, sweat starting to cling to her brow until she couldn't take it anymore. The staring was starting to make her shoulders itch.
Kanae came to a halt, feet shoulder width apart and spear point directed towards the ground.
"What do you want?" she said, irritated at him interrupting her session. It wasn't bad enough that no one was willing to spar with her, now she had to deal with this player?
"Would you like to spar with me?" he asked.
"No."
Shin appeared shocked. "Why not? You've asked others to spar with you."
"I'm still recovering from my previous fight." Said Kanae.
"That doesn't answer why you are willing to spar with others but not me."
"I cannot keep up with you when I am on my best day." said Kanae. "I would be frustrated sparing against you, knowing you're holding back. While our skills with weapons are close to even, my pulse magic is wanting compared to yours."
Shin again appeared surprised. The expression left as he donned a smirk this time.
"You have a lot of pride I see." He said. "However, aren't you the one that can imitate any pulse spell you've seen once?"
"Knowing a skill and being able to utilize it in a match are two different things."
"Fair enough. But what if we don't use magic?"
"There is no need to train my body. I need more experience in magic. See how others use it and learn different ways to adapt during fights."
"Then we can compromise. What if I-"
Shin was interrupted as a new person marched towards Kanae, shouting and pointing at her. He was attracting a fair bit of attention from those close by. Kanae watched the newcomer approach, recognizing him as the boy Kyoko had introduced to her at the party she attended. Hiou Uesugi, the eldest grandson of her master.
The boy- almost man- planted himself in front of Kanae, arms folded and scowling. He wore a simple tunic and sash, a sword strapped to his hip. He was obviously here for training much like Kanae, but why was her calling her out and emanating such hostility?
"Fight me" he said.
"Excuse me?" said Kanae. What was this kid getting at? A few others around them had stopped their training to watch, curious at the confrontation.
"I challenge you to a duel." He said. "If I win, you have to promise to never come in here again."
"And what would I gain by winning?" said Kanae. "I have no quarrel with you and see no reason to accept your challenge."
The teen visibly bristled at the comment, his eyes growing wide in irritation.
"You have no-" his scowl deepened. "If you have any pride as a warrior you will not back down and accept my challenge!"
"It's not pride, it's wisdom." said Kanae. "It wouldn't even be a challenge with your emotions as they currently are. I doubt you've be able to control your magic to form a basic circle."
"I just might surprise you."
He said it with so much certainty and determination that Kanae paused. She usually avoided conflicts such as this. They were a huge waste of time after all, but he was the grandson of her master. Perhaps she should indulge the boy for the moment.
"Fine." said Kanae.
She turned on her heel, walking to the edge of the space and then spinning around. Hiou pulled out his sword, enchanting the edges so they wouldn't cut her.
"How come you'll fight him, but not me?" said Shin, who was along the edge of the area. He was pouting. A few people that had come by to stand by him gave Shin a laugh, throwing comments at Kanae for playing two men. She ignored them, turning to Hiou.
"What type of duel?" she asked.
"Standard rules." He said. "Three hits to victory, vital shot counts as a win. No light magic, and no magic circles. Only arcane pulse magic is allowed."
Explaining the standard rules was unnecessary. The kid was obviously making fun of her, treating her like a fledgling. Well this boy was in for a surprise. Grandson or no, he needed to learn manners.
"Agreed." Said Kanae. "Shin, will you be our judge?"
"Only if you agree to spar with me afterwards."
Kanae pointed at a random person in the crowd. "You, be our judge."
Shin let out an exclamation of protest, but she didn't listen as the other man came up to start the duel. He stood on the side holding up his sword calling for both parties to prepare. Kanae placed her feet apart, body tilted towards Hiou, who also stood ready. Kanae couldn't help smirking at his stance. It was typical Uesugi fashion. She'd seen her master use it countless times.
The second the blade fell, Hiou raced forward, much like Kanae knew that he would. She took slower steps, allowing her magic to form slowly around her. As she predicted, Hiou's attack launched quickly and aggressively, relying on his blade to put pressure on Kanae. She kept up with him, watching for the- there!
There was a blur, and it seemed that his sword split into three, attacks coming from each direction. Kanae didn't bother with it, thrusting forth her spell to sweep in front of her, countering the attack. They met it midair with a clang, making both Kanae and Hiou back up as their bodies recovered from the rebound. She had to admit, he was doing well against her longer range with the spear.
However, Hiou was becoming more frustrated. He growled at her, taking a step back to form several pulse shots. Kanae met them head on, swiping them aside with a spell on her blade, whirling it in the air and advancing, quickening her pace with her shadow step.
Then she felt herself falter.
What?
It wasn't something from Hiou. It was something from within her, from her essence. She staggered slightly, her spell waning. That was not good, she needed to-
"What kind of joke are you playing at!"
Kana's steps slowed until she stood calmly in front of Hiou, confused. He had stopped first, standing up straight and glaring, if possible more fiercely at her. There was nothing but pure rage in his expression.
"I'm not sure what you mean." said Kanae.
In response, Hiou stomped his feet in irritation. "I've had enough of your insults. This is a waste of time. Stay away from my family if you know what's good for you."
Kanae was confused, the crowd of observers muttering as Hiou marched away, shoving his sword back into its scabbard.
"What was that?" said Shin, who was still standing on the side lines.
"I wish I knew." Said Kanae, looking at her still shaking hand. The strange sensation was gone, no sign of the problem that had caused her spell to waver. She hadn't imagined it had she?
"Kanae!"
Kanae looked up, surprised to see Kyoko in the group, waving at her. She noticed that several other soldiers were gawking at her as well, surprised by her presence. It wasn't every day they got a visit from a royal concubine, or any woman for that matter. Most 'proper' and 'fine' women avoided the stinky smelly men infested training hall.
"What are you doing here?" asked Kanae, her voice coming out sharper than she had meant it. The simpleton didn't notice thankfully. She motioned Kanae over, who came against her better judgement.
"I wanted to see you training!" she said, eyes lighting up like they tended to do when she went into her own fantasy world. "I'm so glad I got to see you spar, even though the ending was a little strange. Watching you fight has to be one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. You're like a warrior fairy, or the goddess reborn in a majestic whirlwind of fire and magic. I'm sure many dancers envy your grace."
Kanae couldn't help staring for a moment at Kyoko, wondering about the girl's sanity. Did... she just wax poetic about her fighting style?
"I have to agree with you Kyoko." said Shin, who had come into the conversation to add his two bits to her statement. "Minstrels cannot help but sing at the sight of your beauty and skill with a spear."
Kanae didn't know what to do with that comment either. She wondered if either of them had noticed her falter during the match.
"Why was Hiou so mad at you?" asked Kyoko.
"I have no idea." Said Kanae, glad for the subject change. "Said something about insulting his family, which makes no sense."
"Strange." said Kyoko, frowning. "He is protective of his family. Oh! That reminds me." She turned to Shin, clapping her hands together. "Shin, I was wondering. Are you lazy?"
Shin looked taken aback. Kanae doubted anyone had ever asked him that out right, but he quickly recovered and drew his brows together as her frowned in thought.
"I'm not sure Kyoko." He said, completely serious. "I try to live my life having fun at every opportunity I can."
"I see." Said Kyoko, nodding to herself. "Having fun all the time must be tiring isn't it?"
"Oh Lady Kyoko, it is such a trial." He said. "I live every moment trying to find enjoyment in it. When one lives the life I do, even the most boring and mundane things can be entertaining, but it comes at such a cost. It is a never ending cycle that requires the utmost perseverance and discipline."
Kanae couldn't help it. She squeezed her eyes shut, pinching the bridge of her nose in exasperation.
"Shin. Please don't say things like that with a straight face."
"But I am being completely serious."
"Yes, and that's the problem."
"Since when did the two of you get so close?" said Kyoko.
Kanae wanted to throw Kyoko across the room for that statement. The last thing she needed was for Shin to get the wrong idea, which he promptly did.
"Don't you know Kyoko?" said Shin, enthusiastically clapping a hand on Kanae's shoulder. "True bonds are formed during the heat of battle. When steel and blood combine to overcome the pressure of the adversary, it – Ow ow ow!"
Kanae had pinched the skin of the back of Shin's hand. Shin jerked his hand away, cradling it to his chest as he sulked.
"That was mean Kanae." He whined.
"Don't ever touch me without permission."
He continued to sulk, rubbing the red spot with the other hand. It was then that Kanae noticed Kyoko was shifting her feet back and forth, not paying attention. Something was obviously on the girl's mind.
"What is it?" she said
Kyoko bit her lip.
"Kanae, I was wondering… how would you feel about accompanying me tonight to dine with the Hizuri's?"
Thanks for reading, reviewing and the encouragement!
Yes, and for those still waiting for more KyokoxRen, do not fear. Next chapter I will stuff you full of it. XD
Sorry guys, I know many of you were curious about the scroll but I totally glossed over it. Mostly because Kyoko and Kanae did not know as much as we did as readers. It was a total cop out to get her up to speed without going back over every single last piece of information that we already knew. That would be boring as heck to read.
90% of the king's speech is brought to you by Imouto-chan. Yay!
-Blushweaver
It is true. Blushweaver somehow convinced me to write that speech. TBH, she gets so excited when I write her things, so I just can't say no. Also, I don't know if y'all are aware, but naming these chapters is more painful than writing them. We literally had a 20 min conversation on what to call this chapter, because Blushweaver didn't like my title of "the king's speech." *Sigh*
Any way hope you liked it!
-Imouto