"Kyoko, could you get me another jar of disinfectant?"
"Of course." Said Kyoko, setting down her quill. She hurried to the storage area, dodging people who were walking in the hall. The clinic had become extremely busy, the latest attack bringing more than a hundred people in for their injuries. The rooms were double booked with old and new occupants, everyone working hard to meet the new influx of patients. It was the perfect place for Kyoko to get lost in.
After her conversation with Kuon on the relaywell, she hadn't been able to sit still. Every time she did, guilt and fear would start to crawl up her skin resulting in her constantly twitching. Lory had taken pity on her and allowed her to work. She couldn't help it. She felt terrible for losing the pearl, the first real solution they had found for Kuon's curse. It had been her responsibility to keep it safe and now it was gone. They were running out of time.
Kyoko placed the pot back on the table, her hands shaking so hard she was afraid she might drop it. She rested her palms on the counter, stabilizing herself against the wood and taking a deep breath. Steady there Kyoko, He hasn't been taken by the curse yet. We still might find a solution.
Yes, now was not the time to panic. She was not going to give into her fear.
She couldn't help grimacing at her state. Here she was, terrified out of her mind for a man that was pretending not to notice her feelings. The same man that had brushed aside the news of the pearl to instead express his gratitude that she was unhurt. So much for keeping her heart pure. He couldn't have said anything more touching.
She didn't deserve his appreciation. Nor did she want it. The sentiment just made it that much harder to distance her heart from the unattainable.
Kyoko picked up the jar, heading back into the clinic. She shoved her emotions down, ignored her dozens of worries and walked back into the clinic.
She stopped dead in the entrance.
The queen was standing in the middle of the room, radiating elegance and glory. A smooth blue dress was draped around her, trailing on the ground and accentuating her height. Like a goddess of beauty. She looked out of place in the middle of physicians who were rushing around, tending their patients. They were shooting Julie concerned looks, no doubt wanting to ask her to leave.
If it had just been the queen, they might have mustered the courage, but Julie's feathered companion kept them all at bay. Rosa stood on Julie's shoulder, the phoenix glowing in all its glory. The air felt lighter in the presence of the demi god, but everyone was obviously confused as to why they were here, and none were brave enough to approach.
Kyoko wasn't one of them. This was not the first time Julie had come to interrupt Kyoko when she was working and she had talked with the phoenix on a few occasions. She stepped up to them, still holding the disinfectant.
"Can I help you your highness?" said Kyoko.
Julie nodded happily. "As a matter of fact you can." Said Julie, taking the jar from Kyoko and setting it on a counter. "I need you to come with me."
Kyoko didn't get to protest. She shot an apologetic look to her supervisor, noticing the several eyes that followed them as Julie took Kyoko's hand and started leading her out of the room.
They kept walking through the clinic, passing physicians and patients along the way. Each one stared as they passed, a mixture of reverence and awe painting their expressions. Rosa's presence was too hard to ignore.
The three of them eventually made it to an unoccupied room. The existence of one puzzled Kyoko as she knew how full the clinic was. Why was no one using this room?
Julie pulled them in, closing the door. She set her hands on Kyoko's shoulders, pressing lightly to moved Kyoko backward.
"Sit." commanded Julie, and Kyoko sat, finding herself seated on a bed. Rosa perched on an unoccupied chair, graceful in every movement.
"Kyoko, do you know how long you've been in the clinic working?" said Julie.
"I don't know." Said Kyoko. "A few hours?"
"Try twenty."
Kyoko blinked, looking out the window. So that was the setting sun, not the rising sun.
"Wow, I didn't even notice." Said Kyoko. "We've been so busy here."
Julie was studying Kyoko, head tilted to one side, her face impassive. What had the queen come down here for anyway?
"Is there something I can help you with?" said Kyoko. "Or do you have another 'incurable deadly disease eating away at your soul?' "
Julie gave a wry smile. "I can see why he likes you. You're very good at diverting attention from yourself aren't you? Unfortunately for you, I will not be so easily swayed."
"But I wasn't-"
Julie interrupted her by pointing a finger right between her eyes. Kyoko went nearly crossed eyed watching it.
"You need to rest." Said Julie. "You've been working for twenty hours after being caught up in a fight with the accursed. Who does that? People like you and Kuon who don't know the concept of relaxing. Gosh, I dread what will happen when the two of you get together, you'll both be so bad at taking breaks I'll have to babysit both of you."
"Get together?" sputtered Kyoko. "We're not- I don't need to be babysat! I wasn't hurt so it was logical that I would help. It's my job as a physician, isn't it? To help and heal people."
Julie put her head in her hands. "Oh dear, Lory was right to send me." She lamented. "It's not a virtue to be unaware Kyoko. It can hurt those around you."
Any retort Kyoko had vanished, Julie's words stinging.
She hadn't meant to cause trouble. She'd been trying to stay safe and get away, but because she hadn't been paying attention the pearl was gone.
Perhaps that wasn't how Julie had meant those words, but they hit Kyoko hard, flooding her with a sense of guilt for every problem she had created. Not noticing that Kuon was being polite for her feelings sake. Not noticing that him and Ren were the same person. And Kuon! He had told her that Ren had gone through some hard times, yet all she had done was ramble to him about her own problems. The list could go on of all the times her selfishness and inattention had caused someone else grief.
Kyoko pulled her lips into a carefully controlled line, bowing where she sat. "Please forgive my inattention. I will try to be better in the future."
Her words were met with silence.
Kyoko raised her head, wondering why Julie had stopped scolding her. Julie was staring with a doubtful expression.
"What is going on Kyoko?" said Julie. "You're been acting strange for a while now – Stop. Don't try to deny it. I don't know you very well but it's obvious even to me. Now, I am determined to get to the bottom of this so we might as well skip all the arguing and get straight to the problem. What. Is. Wrong."
"I wouldn't want to worry your highness with my problems." Said Kyoko. "You and your husband have enough to worry about without adding my frivolous stupidity on top."
Julie gave a tired sigh. She took a chair- not the one Rosa was stationed on- and set it down right in front of Kyoko. Julie sat, leaning forward so that she was peering at Kyoko right below eye level. Her expression was soft, open and concerned.
"I know we're not close Kyoko." Said Julie. "The first time we met you set a stink spell on me, but I don't care about that. I want you to talk to me, to trust me. You're important to my son, so you're important to me. I want to help."
That was the second time Julie had insinuated something between her and Kuon.
Looking at this beautiful woman wearing an expression concern, for a half a heartbeat, Kyoko compared Julie to her own mother. The one that had pulled her hand away every time Kyoko reached for it. The woman's expression had always been twisted in scorn, loathing her touch for even a second. It hadn't mattered how many times Kyoko had come crying to her. She'd never received comfort from those arms.
Then there was Julie. A woman who was practically perfect in Kyoko's eyes, aglow with loving concern for her. For unloved Kyoko.
"I bet you were a perfect mother." Kyoko whispered.
Julies eyes widened.
"Kyoko." She whispered urgently. "Are you pregnant?"
"NO!" Kyoko yelled, startling the phoenix. "I would never- he wouldn't- I'm still completely pure!"
Why did everyone keep asking her that? She might be a concubine but there was no way she would ever sleep with anyone. Especially with Kuon. That would be a nightmare.
"I refuse to conduct in that sort of behavior." Kyoko said firmly, placing a fist over her heart. "That is set aside strictly for a husband and wife. I will never get married, I will never get pregnant and I will never fall in love." She spoke the word like it was a curse. After all, it had done nothing but cause her grief.
"I'm very sorry to hear that." Said Julie, surprisingly calm after Kyoko's outburst. "Love is a beautiful thing, and there is nothing in the world as special as holding your child in your arms. Children truly are a blessing in every parent's life, no matter the heart ache that may accompany it."
Kyoko let out a bitter laugh. "I disagree. Even parents can hate their own children your highness."
Julie's eyes flashed with pain. The expression was especially tragic on the face of someone so beautiful.
"What happened to your parents?" Said Julie.
"You can just ask Lory. He did a background check on me when I first entered."
"I want to hear it from you."
Kyoko considered. It wasn't that she wanted to keep her background a secret. She just didn't like talking about it. But what the heck. It was the queen and how could she deny such a beautiful person anything?
"My father died when I was seven." Said Kyoko. "My mother abandoned me to the Fuwa's household soon after that. I don't know if she's even alive anymore."
Julie mulled over Kyoko's words for a moment.
"The Fuwas... that sounds familiar." She said. "Ah, Sho Fuwa. He was the one you want to defeat, is that right?"
Like usual, Kyoko's anger flared at the mention of Sho's name. Rosa's presence muted the response, but it was still strong. The change in her expression was answer enough for Julie.
"I see." Said Julie. "And is this what's been bothering you?"
"No." said Kyoko, waving a hand. "That idiot has nothing to do with my current distress. It's Prince Kuon who-"
Kyoko stopped herself, realizing she was just about to spill everything to Julie. Stupid Sho. Just hearing his name prevented her from thinking straight. Julie had noticed the slip, her eyes gleaming.
"So it has something to do with my son." Said Julie. "What did he do this time?"
Kyoko clamped her mouth shut, unable to help herself from glancing at the phoenix. Julie noticed. She seemed to be putting two and two together. Oh heck.
"Did you see who Rosa turns into for Kuon?" said Julie, a thoughtful look on her face. "Is that why you're distressed?"
"No…"
When Kyoko didn't elaborate, Julie took Kyoko's hands, cradling them in her own.
"Kyoko please." Julie pressed. "I promise not to get upset, I'm just worried for you."
It was useless to try and deny those pleading eyes. With patience and love, Julie had whittled away at Kyoko's defenses. She had never stood a chance.
"It's who Rosa turns into for me." whispered Kyoko.
Julie still didn't understand. She nodded at the ground to Rosa, indicated for the phoenix to change. Kyoko couldn't watch as Rosa complied, smoothly transitioning from gleaming gold feathers to young Ren.
"But that's-" said Julie her head swiveling between Kyoko and Rosa. "Kuon as a boy. Wait… does that mean you love him?"
Kyoko let out a wild cry, burying her face into her knees. See. Anyone that knew they were the same person would put it together. She was so doomed.
"Isn't this a good thing?" said Julie, who was still confused.
"No, it's not." Said Kyoko firmly. "Before I ever knew it was Koun, everyone saw her take this form! Prince Kuon, King Kuu, Duke Takarada, they all know but haven't said anything to me. They're obviously so disgusted with the thought they can't even talk to me about it!"
"Then how did Rosa transform into this form for you?"
"We met when we were kids." Said Kyoko, staring at the young Ren. "He told me his name was Ren. I only found out last week that they were the same person, but Prince Kuon has known this whole time."
It was beyond humiliating.
"I still don't see what the problem is." Said Julie.
"The problem" said Kyoko. "is that Prince Kuon must know that I lo- my feelings for him."
She was unable to hold back a wail of despair. Her outburst was a result of the stress that had been accumulating for the past week. It was the worst disaster. The absolute worst. And she still had no idea what to do about the whole thing.
"And this is why you're distressed." Muttered Julie. The woman's expression had changed. A frown marred her beautiful features as she stood up. "He never told you that was him, and Kuu knew this whole time."
Julie was a picture of furry as she rounded on Kyoko. "Men are absolutely the worst. They can be the most irrational pigheaded idiots in the entire planet."
"Sure." Said Kyoko, "Um, but why are you so angry?"
"Because I think I'm the only one that knows what's going on here." Said Julie with a sigh. She returned to her seat, giving Kyoko a sympathetic smile. "So you've fallen in love when you swore off the emotion, and the man you fell in love with has been lying about who he is. No wonder you're confused."
Kyoko grimaced. "It doesn't matter anymore."
"Of course it matters." Said Julie firmly. "You have to know that Kuon cares about you."
"Then why hasn't he said anything?" said Kyoko, not caring that she sounded like a child. She felt lost. Grasping for someone to give her direction. "He had plenty of opportunities to tell me before he saw Rosa transform, why has he pretended to be two different people? I can understand if there's some secret behind it but then why would he say he trusts me? I just don't know what to believe anymore."
Kyoko was a mess, her brain tired of her continuously circling emotions and thoughts. All she wanted was for it to all go away so she wouldn't have to worry anymore. She hadn't confessed, but Kuon had already managed to scramble her heart so thoroughly.
Soft fingers brushed her cheek. Kyoko hadn't noticed her falling tears. She attempted to give Julie a grateful smile. The woman smiled gently in response.
"You know Kyoko." Said Julie. "When I first heard about you, I despised you. You were an unknown woman who had somehow seduced my son into becoming a concubine. Every new rumor I heard told of your immoral behavior in the halls. My son's new favorite concubine who had rekindled that sort of shamelessness."
"I'm not his favorite." muttered Kyoko. "And we never did any of those things."
"But I didn't know that when I ambushed you in your office."
Kyoko chuckled, remembering the event with fondness.
"I never did apologize to you for that." Said Julie.
"You don't have to your highness." Said Kyoko quickly, wanting to reassure the queen. "I also acted out."
"But I should, yet I never found a good opportunity to do so. To explain to you just why I acted towards you with such hostility. I was too embarrassed."
Julie wiped the last tear from Kyoko's face, leaning back with a smile. "Do you think it's possible that Kuon might also be hesitating for his own reasons?"
Kyoko had never considered that possibility. She had just assumed he had complete control and understanding of the situation.
Except I know he's struggling. Thought Kyoko. He had said so himself; Ren had struggled in his teen years. Prince Kuon was struggling even now with the curse. Was it possible that there were other demons Kuon hadn't shared with her that held him back?
It was very possible.
"No matter the reason." Julie said. "I think it's important for both you and Kuon to talk. If you want him to be open with you Kyoko, you must be open with him. Your fears might be more in sync than you realize."
Being open. That would be hard, even if he knew about her feelings. She chewed on her lip.
"You're right." Said Kyoko. "I'll talk to him when he gets back."
It would be easier said than done, but at least she had more confidence. Talking to Kanae had stopped her from leaving, but talking to Julie had helped calm her panic. Who knew? Maybe Prince Kuon didn't hate her for her feelings.
"We still haven't found Honda yet." Said Lory. "But seed levels are still the same as far as we know, thank goodness."
Kuu grimaced at his friend's distress. The duke's eyes were red from a combination of lack of sleep and constant irritation. Every few minutes he'd reach up and rub them with a tired hand. He really needed a break. They all did. Him, Kuu and Shin were seated in a parlor room, discussing new events and information since the attack. Lory had been working ceaselessly, yet there was still so much they didn't understand. Like how the accursed had managed to gain access to Hirotaka's study in the first place.
"Was there anyone related to Honda that had access to Hirotaka's chambers?" said Kuu. Honda had been the soldier that had spread the invisible blight to the previous champions. Before they could apprehend the man, he had disappeared, along with any information they could have gotten out of him.
"There's no direct connection." Said Lory. "And we haven't been able to discover any. We're still questioning all the other magic users so the production of the inhibitors has all but stopped."
For good reason too. All those men were their most powerful and trusted light users. There was no way they could continue with the production of the inhibitors like before. They were trusted and powerful, yet one of them had betrayed them. How they managed to bypass all the security and bring in an accursed was another question. The only person they could trust would be Shin, and he was busy enough with his own assignments.
"We'll have to figure out a way to weed them out." Said Kuu. "We have to make more inhibitors Lory. I will not have my people turn into puppets for the enemy to be killed by our hand."
"Nor I." said Lory, some fight shining through his fatigue. "But charging ahead is part of what lead us to this mess. Until I am certain that no one else has betrayed us, Shin will be the only one working on the inhibitors."
Kuu frowned, not satisfied. This was not the job of one person. Even Hirotaka hadn't been able to do it all on his own.
"Don't worry uncle." Said Shin with a smile. "If you tire yourself out before the accursed attack, you'll be too tired to fight them. They're recovering from the fight as well."
"I know." Said Kuu, leaning back in his seat, letting his irritation drain away. "We need to be better rested. That includes you Lory. I'll order you to sleep if I have to."
"That order didn't work well with Hirotaka, it won't work with me." Said Lory with a wry smile. "But perhaps this one time you are right. Right now it's just a matter of patience."
Lory stood taking some ledgers with him as he dusted himself off. "I think I'll retire to my chambers for the evening."
Kuu nodded to Lory who exited the room.
Kuu poured himself another drink, the number of which was higher than his wife would like. But she wasn't here, and he needed something to help him relax.
"You should go to bed too uncle." Said Shin, who was lounging in his own chair.
"I will, just not yet." Said Kuu, "I still need to talk to the architect to discuss his estimate for the repairs. I had no idea how much money grandfather put into constructing that room. Doesn't help that you dad is trying to guilt me into rebuilding it on an even grander scale."
"He is quite manipulative." Said Shin with a smile. "You should have heard him trying to convince me to become a champion. 'It's your duty as one who has been blessed by the light. When are you going to stop being a child and become a man? Let me know when you want to be a responsible son I'll one day love.' "
"In your father's defense you weren't the easiest child to deal with." Said Kuu.
"Hey, I was adorable. Aunt Julie liked me just fine."
"That's because the two of you were always getting into trouble." Said Kuu, a smile stretching across his face at the memories.
Shin raised an eyebrow. "This coming from the man that raised Kuon?"
"My son is perfect!"
Shin raised his hands in defeat, a knowing smile on his face.
Any response was cut short when the door opened and Julie walked in. The look on her face made Kuu straighten by instinct, all previous mirth gone.
Julie was glittering. Her cherry red lips were pulled into the sweetest smile, gliding towards him as if she were on wheels. Her entire aura was sparkling, yet instead of a warm glow, it was lined with venom, pointed like needles poised and ready to fire. And Kuu was the target.
He cowered under that gaze.
"Sweetheart." Said Julie in a sugary voice. "I'm so glad I found you. I just heard the darnest thing about our son and Kyoko."
"Did you now?" said Kuu, sweating under the fire that was his wife. He felt like a pig being coaxed out of the pen for the slaughter. One wrong move and it was lights out for him. His wife walked casually over to one of the trays, pouring herself a glass of wine, all while wearing that gorgeous smile.
"Yes," said Julie. "Something about Rosa turning into a younger version of Kuon and Kuon keeping that fact from Kyoko. And that you knew about the deception."
Kuu swallowed hard. He hoped he wasn't expected to respond.
"Wow, look at the time." Said Shin with a desperate smile as he inched towards the door. "I'd better go woo some girl o-."
Julie banged her goblet against the tray, the clatter making both Kuu and Shin jump. The lioness now had her eye on Shin, who froze under her gaze, a foot still lifted in his attempt at an escape.
There weren't any words needed. Shin understood he wasn't getting away, the traitorous slink, thinking he could leave Kuu her to suffer alone under the wrath of his wife.
In a few steps, Shin was back in his place, looking much like a kicked puppy. He only relaxed again when Julie's gaze left him to take a drink from her goblet. The silence that followed was only interrupted by the swallowing sounds as Julie finished her drink with a satisfying sigh. If Kuu wasn't so terrified at that moment, he would be marveling how his wife could make such a mundane thing as drinking look like art.
Then her attention was back on Kuu, and he felt the tension rising again. Those beautiful dangerous blue eyes were now fixed on him.
"I just had a lovely word with Kyoko earlier." Said Julie. "Wonderful girl, perfect for our family don't you think?"
Kuu didn't respond, and thankfully Shin was wise enough not to as well.
"I know our boy is fond of her." continued Julie, thoughtfully tracing the ring of her goblet with a finger. "He loves her actually, but there seems to be some sort of miscommunication between them. Something about meeting once as children, and then never telling her the truth."
Was that what had happened? Kuu had always been curious why Rosa had transformed into Kuon when he was younger but he'd respected Kuon's space enough to not ask.
"Did you tell her that it was Kuon?" said Kuu.
"How could I tell her when I didn't even know about it?" snapped Julie, the smile vanishing. Kuu winched, but was glad Julie wasn't smiling anymore. That smile was very scary. "Yet apparently, everyone else knew about it. You, Lory, and I'm sure Shin here as well."
"Guilty" said Shin, giving a mock salute.
"Then what are you morons thinking by keeping it from her!"
"Kuon was the one that asked us to." Said Kuu, completely fine with throwing his son under the carriage. "I didn't think it was my place to interfere. Kuon is trying his best to win her heart and if he wanted my help he would have asked for it. I saw no reason to step in."
Julie stared at him as if she couldn't believe what she was hearing. Or maybe it was the look she gave him when he said something stupid. It was hard to tell. The looks were very similar.
"You know," said Julie slowly. "I was doubtful that Kuon had over looked this but now I realize the stupidity is hereditary. Oh, where did I go wrong with the men in the family?"
"I figured it out!" said Shin, raising a hand in triumph. He kept smiling despite the glare Julie shot at him, looking pleased with himself for some reason. Kuu was just confused.
"Figured what out?" said Kuu.
With exaggerated patience Julie exclaimed. "That Rosa turns into Kuon for Kyoko!"
He still didn't understand what she was trying to explain. He had seen Rosa transform into Kuon, so of course he knew this. What was she-
The answer came with such terrifying clarity that it left Kuu dazed, too shocked to think. That Rosa turned into Kuon! That could only mean one thing!
Kuu couldn't contain his joy. He leapt to his feet, pumping his fist in the air with a cry of triumph. How glorious a day when the love of his son's life returned his affections. After all this fear on Kuon's part of never being able to win Kyoko's heart, he had already secured it so long ago. Kyoko was in love with Kuon. She was going to become family.
His celebrations were cut short by an annoyed "humph" from his wife. Julie didn't look nearly as happy as she should be, arms folded and still glaring at him as if he were in trouble.
"Why are you so upset?" said Kuu, completely bewildered by her attitude. "This means that their feelings are mutual. Kuon can get married and we'll have grandchildren. I wonder if Kyoko will let us help her name the kids."
"There aren't going to be any kids unless this mess is cleared up first." Said Julie. "Heck, there may not even be a Kyoko by the time Kuon gets back. She may leave."
"What?"
Julie let out a sigh, her anger deflating and turning into pained concern. Kuu had seen this expression on his wife many times. When she had talked to Kuu at length about her son during his troubled youth. When Kuon had been recovering from his friend's death those years ago. It was the expression of a mother wishing she could take the trails and pain away from her children.
"Try for a moment dear, to look at this from Kyoko's perspective." Said Julie, "You and Kuon have known for almost months that the Ren from her past is indeed Kuon, yet you have also kept it quite from her. Add to that, she now thinks that everyone knowns about her feelings for Kuon since you saw Rosa transform into him."
"And what's the matter with that?" said Kuu.
That was apparently the wrong thing to say. Julie inhaled through her nostrils, spreading her fingers against her forehead in an effort to calm herself.
"Do you not remember anything about Kyoko's past?" said Julie, "That her father died, her mother abandoned her, and the boy she loved for years stole her work and tossed her aside like dirt? Or that she has been resolutely declaring that she refuses to fall in love. This isn't just about that stupid brat breaking her heart. This is about Kyoko constantly being hurt and disappointed by the most important people in her life. I barely know her and yet I understand this. Do you think it is a good idea for her to find out that yet another person she loves kept something from her? Deceived her? Maybe even laughing behind her back? She's going to be hurt, and she's going to think the worst."
Kuu had never thought of it that way, but it made sense. it made his insides squirm with guilt.
"We messed up really badly didn't we?" said Kuu.
"Yes, you did." Said Julie. Then she glanced behind her. "And don't think you're not included in this young man. You are just as guilty as the rest of them."
"But I don't have to be there when Lory gets the lecture do I?" said Shin.
Julie continued to glare at Shin, obviously trying to decide if he needed a bigger lecture.
"Should I go speak to her?" said Kuu. He had no qualms asking his wife what to do in this situation. She was the one that understood these sorts of things.
"I'm not sure." Said Julie, chewing her lip. "This is something the two of them need to work out. If they're not willing to open up to each other they'll never connect. Otherwise I'm afraid she might leave. I can just hope she takes my advice and actually talks to him."
"Let's hope she stays." Said Kuu, his thoughts grim. If Kyoko left, there would be little hope for his son. The girl was one of the few things keeping the curse at bay. If he needed, Kuu would interfere with or without his son's approval. He would feel bad for acting without his son's approval or without regard for Kyoko's feelings, but this was a matter of life or death. Kyoko had to stay, for everyone's' sake.
After three hard days of riding, Kuon could see the tips of the palace spires. He was finally home, him and his company of men. They trudged along behind him as he rode at the head of the procession.
The group received mixed signals from the citizens as they passed. Some cheered for both Kuon and the soldiers that had made the passage safer. Others mutely bowed, recognizing the losses they had sustained. Kuon kept his gaze forward, impatient to return.
It had been a nice break out in the deserts. It had been simple, a fight for survival where he commanded his men and fought the dark creatures. There hadn't been any of the political and emotional turmoil like there was in the palace, which was sure to have gotten worse. Despite the mess he was sure to enter, he was glad to be back for several reasons. He just had to figure out which one to address first.
Kuon clapped hands with the Captain Iouri, who had helped command the men just below Kuon in the hierarchy.
"It has been a privilege to serve with you my prince" said Iouri, with a genuine smile, one Kuon returned.
"And with you." Said Kuon. "Perhaps our paths may cross again in the future. Until then my friend."
Kuon bid goodbye to the rest of the soldiers, hurrying to the palace He nodded politely to those he passed, keeping a fake smile on his face. It had been honed perfectly to avoid insulting the palace guests by acknowledging them, yet serving as a barrier that indicated he was busy. The nobles and workers got the hint. They settled for waving and whispering excitedly as he passed. All save those that believed the rumors about him being cursed. There were still a few of those.
He had made it through the second chamber when someone he recognized well walked up to him, looking impatient. Yukihito's robes billowed around him as he took quick steps, clutching several ledgers in his arms. He come to a halt in front of Kuon.
"You're back early." Said Yukihito.
"There was no reason to dawdle." Said Kuon with a smile, nodding to a group of women as they passed. They began tittering in delight, relief evident in their features. Overall, the reaction to his return was more subdued then Kuon had anticipated. Usually he would have been swarmed by officials as well as his own concubines. Part of it might have to do with his early return. Another was probably related to the attack a few days ago. Everyone was still on edge.
"It's good thing I anticipated this." Said Yukithio, adjusting his glasses with a satisfied smirk. "I know the second you heard about Kyoko being involved in the attack you would hurry home as soon as possible. She's in class now so you can't go see her first."
Kuon had been about to ask her location, but changed his question at Yukihito's added comment. His pride would never admit that Yukihitos had guessed correctly. "Do you have the reports for me to look through?"
"I do." Said Yukihito. He leafed through the ledgers in his hands and handing Kuon a particularly thick one. "This will get you up to speed with all the relevant information. Anything dealing with delicate matters however should be addressed with either your father or Lory."
"Thanks." Said Kuon, taking the ledger and scanning through some pages. He began walking, Yukihito keeping step beside him.
Much of it reviewed the current situation of the palace after the attack. It included a list of notable people that had been hurt or killed in the attack. There were more than Kuon would have liked to see. This would impact their numbers quite a bit, especially with the death of Hirotaka.
He grimaced, flipping through the generals as he read about the rest of the populace's reaction. People were leaving the palace. Many others were leaving the city. Certain officials were becoming antsy and throwing their weight around in fear. What a mess.
Kuon handed the ledger back to Yukihito.
"What about the other assignment I gave you?" said Kuon.
Yukihito grimaced, holding up another report. "It's all in here. With this, the last part should be taken care of. But are you sure now is a good time to do this?"
"It should have been done a long time ago." Said Kuon, "It's becoming too dangerous to stay here."
"I can't argue that." Said Yukihito. He looked as if he wanted to say something more but Kuon waved him away.
"Leave it in my desk." Said Kuon. "I'm assuming you've given me the day to sort through some of my affairs."
"Naturally." Said Yukihito. "There are a few officials that want to speak to you, but since they didn't expect you back until tomorrow, it shouldn't be too hard to distract them."
"Thank you." Said Kuon. "I may be busy for a while. There are some thing I have to take care of privately."
Yukihito recognized his dismissal, but didn't leave quite yet. He fixed Kuon with a stare. "Don't over work yourself. You just got back. You should rest. It would be highly neglectful on my part if I didn't remind you to at least eat."
"I'll have something later." Said Kuon with a smile. "I wouldn't be able to eat until I take care of some other things anyway."
Yukihito conceded, taking a different hall to get to Kuon's study to place the reports there. Kuon stayed straight, walking swiftly to the throne room. He reached the double doors, ignoring the soldiers guarding on either side. If they weren't stopping him, it meant no one was in there. Good.
Kuon entered, shutting himself inside the empty room.
The lamps were on, their glow dimmed while the room wasn't in use. They cast eerie shadows across the room, winding around the pillars and arched ceiling. His steps echoed on the mosaic floor, the large room taking a minute for even his long legs to cross. He reached the throne and kept walking, heading for the wall.
He stopped, right in front of the oil lamp hanging on the wall. The vessel for the phoenix.
Kuon reached forward, carefully taking it from the wall. He cradled it in his hands, marveling at the power hidden within the item. It was hard for him to sense, the darkness in him becoming so prominent. This was his last hope. His last chance at curing the curse and riding himself of the shadows once and for all.
Kuon drew himself up, breathing in deeply as light and magic fused within him.
"I, Kuon Hizuri-"
Kuon stopped, unable to continue as something held him back. He worked his jaw, heart straining against the darkness. He had to do this. He fought desperately against his restraints, pulling with all his might to keep going. To finish the contract.
Sweat dripped down his face, hands trembling as he held the vessel.
It wasn't enough.
Kuon released the magic, relief immediately flooding his system. He was shaking, heart thudding inside his chest like mad.
He still couldn't do it.
Carefully, Kuon placed the vessel back where it belonged.
He heard a soft clatter, turning just in time to see Rosa transform into Kyoko.
"Did I disturb you?" said Kuon, nodding to the vessel.
"I knew you would come here soon after returning." Said Rosa. "But I'm afraid it is still impossible for you to fully form the contract."
For now, was heavily implied.
"Do you have any control over the contract?" said Kuon.
"The connection will come from you." Said Rosa. "I am sure that when the time is right, you will find it within you."
Cryptic. Typical. He shouldn't have expected anything different. She was powerful, but not omnipotent. How did she know for certain that Kuon would one day complete the contract? That he wouldn't be taken by the curse first?
As he watched, something started to churn. In the shadows of a pillar, a form rose from the ground. Kuon instantly recognized the hooded black robes, the face hidden. He stared, eyes flickering back to Rosa to see her reaction.
She didn't turn towards it. That meant it was in his head. If the specter could withstand Rosa's presence, it meant his curse was growing.
"You see it even now, don't you?" said Rosa, orange eyes flickering between his own. There was sadness in her gaze. "Oh prince, I am sorry you've had to fight this for so long."
"It was my own stupid choice." Said Kuon, walking back towards the doors, both specter and Phoenix trailing after him. What a mess he was. "If I hadn't let my anger take control then this wouldn't be an issue."
"But you did." Said Rosa, "And now both light and darkness reside within you."
An obvious deduction. He turned to the phoenix, studying her as she stopped, hands clashed behind her back. She stared up at him with Kyoko's appearance, short cropped hair falling around her neck, large beautiful eyes, though they were not as expressive as Kyoko's. It really wasn't fair that she used that appearance.
The shadow wavered, flickering before re-solidifying.
The door to the throne room burst open.
Shin strode in, grinning happily as he waved towards Kuon.
"Cousin! You're back!"
Kuon grimaced, tolerating the enthusiastic hug form his cousin. Shin looked delighted, chattering nonstop.
"I'm so glad, everyone is going crazy since you left. Your mother is on a terror, the nobles won't stop bickering, and don't even get me started on your concubines. They're already searching high and low for you. They're not happy about being neglected."
"I see you're well." Said Kuon, unable to resist a grin. "Though you are babbling. You only do that when you're in trouble."
"So much trouble." Said Shin seriously. "I've got Julie, Kyoko and Kanae after my blood. I understand two of them but Kanae? She just flipped for no good reason. I don't know what I did and she's avoiding me at all costs!"
"I'm sure there was a very good reason." It was Shin after all.
"Don't get too smug, they're all after you as well." Said Shin. "You're probably in more trouble than I am."
What did Shin mean by that?
The man looked behind Kuon, waving happily at Rosa. "Hi there." He said, then looked around. "By the way, why are you in here? I'll admit it's a good place to hide if it's not in use but I honestly thought you'd go for Kyoko first thing."
"She's busy right now" Said Kuon, ignoring the jibe. "I actually needed to talk to you."
"What for?"
"Did you tell anyone else about the pearl?"
Shin looked insulted.
"Kuon, I know I'm stupid sometimes, but not that stupid." Said Shin.
"Don't play games with me, this is important. Try to remember if you ever let anything slip when you were drunk."
"I know, I know," said Shin with a pout. "I'm serious. I didn't tell anyone."
Kuon put a hand to his chin in thought. Shin had been his first thought when he had heard about the accursed going after the pearl. The man sometimes wasn't the best about keeping things to himself, hinting too much at secrets for the fun of watching them explode in other's faces. But usually not important ones. If he wasn't the source of the leak, who was?
"Don't forget, it could have been someone on Konoe's side." Said Shin, seeming to read Kuon's thoughts. "Or maybe someone saw the book you were carrying and looked it up later. There are all sorts of possibilities. Maybe even Kyoko herself accidentally let it slip to someone."
"I highly doubt that." Said Kuon, though it would have explained her added layer of terror upon talking to him. Then he remembered Shin's comment.
"What did you mean earlier? That I'm in trouble with Kyoko?"
Shin blinked at Kuon, then a large wicked smile starched slowly across his face. Kuon recognized that expression.
"I take it back." Said Kuon. "I don't want to know."
"Oh? You don't?" said Shin, the grin widening.
Kuon frowned. Shin was worse than Yukihito. "If I want to know I can ask Lady Kyoko myself." Kuon began walking past Shin and heading for the door.
"Right" called Shin to his back "Because waltzing up to a girl and asking 'hey, why are you upset with me?' has worked so many times before."
"He's back?" said Kyoko, eyes wide. She was standing outside of the concubine's quarters, having finished her cleric lessons for the day. Shinichi had just told her that Kuon had returned a whole day early and that he had entered the concubines quarters some time ago.
Oh holy everything! This was not good. Kyoko was so not ready to see him. She'd felt brave and all that after her talk with Julie, but she couldn't summon that kind of courage without proper preparation. Her heart couldn't take it. What if she had a heart attack and died because of this? She couldn't go inside. It would definitely be bad for her health.
Kyoko spun around with every intention to run away, but she was stopped by a hand on her shoulder.
"Sorry Kyoko." Said Shinichi with an apologetic smile. "He said that he wants to see all of the concubines. And he told me specifically not to let you run away."
That little-! How could he do this to her! Not only had he returned early but he had anticipated her terrified retreat. This man was not playing by the rules at all. He was completely unfair.
"Prince Kuon is a completely unreasonable man." Said Kyoko, with such vehemence that Shinichi stared. "He's a big bully that throws his weight around to make me miserable."
"Uh, if you say so." Said Shinichi with a grimace. "but I have orders Lady Kyoko."
"Whatever he's paying you, I'll double it!"
Shinichi just gave an uncomfortable laugh.
Kyoko briefly considered throwing magic at Shinichi to get him off her. Then she realized the poor man didn't deserve that sort of mistreatment. Had it been another guard, maybe.
Kyoko turned fearful eyes to Kanae, who was still there from dropping her off. The warrior didn't have a trace of sympathy in her expression.
"Kanae, help." Said Kyoko
"No, you need to talk to him."
"It's not like you're actually talking to Shin."
"You lose brain cells talking to that man." Said Kanae, turning on her heel. "If you don't talk to Prince Kuon, I will."
Kyoko's retort was a jumble of words that ended up sounding like a squawk. Kanae didn't return, disappearing down the corridor.
Kyoko turned silent tearful eyes to the one that still had her shoulder. She plead without words to please let her run away. She would keep his secret. No one would know he had let her escape.
Shinichi began squirming, obviously uncomfortable from Kyoko's distress.
"Please Lady Kyoko, don't make that face." said Shinichi. "I'm sure whatever it is won't be that bad. Please don't cry."
So he wasn't going to help her.
She hung her head, resigning herself to her fate as she entered the archway.
The main central room was full of concubines. It seemed that they were all there, whispering together. There was something odd about their appearance. Instead of the frantic joy Kyoko had expected upon Kuon's return, they were somber. A few women were crying. What was going on?
Yumi, who was among those not crying, spotted Kyoko. Her eyes flashed with an emotion Kyoko couldn't place.
"Kyoko." Said Yumi, the strength in her voice more forceful than usual. "Prince Kuon is back, as I'm sure you've heard."
"Yes." said Kyoko, feeling her gut squirm. "What's going on? Why is everyone so upset?"
"You'll find out soon enough." Said Yumi, gesturing towards a door. "Go on in. You're the last one."
Curious, and a little more terrified than before, Kyoko sent the group of concubines one last glance before walking to the study. She hovered by the door, wringing her hands in anticipation. She took a moment to swallow down all her feelings.
Normal Kyoko. Just be normal. He doesn't hate you for losing the pearl. You can just act like nothing has changed. Like he doesn't know that you're in love with him. No problem.
With these 'cheerful' thoughts, Kyoko knocked on the door.
She nearly jumped when she heard his voice call for her to enter.
She walked in slowly, peering around the door as she crept inside. Her eyes immediately fell to where he sat. Kuon was scribbling away at something on his desk, running a hand though his hair in irritation. A habit he needed to stop if he didn't want to go bald one day.
The sound of the door shutting was her funeral drums. It thudded loudly, causing Kuon to look up.
For a second the world stopped. Their eyes connected, and Kyoko was sure he would yell at her. Chase her out or mock her for her feelings. He would reject her, she was sure of it. He-
He broke out into a brilliant smile.
There was nothing fake or sinister about it. The expression was one hundred percent genuine, coloring his entire aura with a glow.
Goodness it was beautiful.
Kyoko had no idea what sort of expression she was making right now. She was too shocked to be self-aware, unable to form coherent thoughts. Kuon didn't have that problem.
"Kyoko." Said Kuon, chair legs scraping the ground as he pushed it aside. He hurried around the desk, and in a split-second Kyoko found herself in Kuon's arms.
And now all sort of alarm bells were going off in her head. W-w-what was going on? Why was he hugging her like this? It was tight, like a good friend. Long, as if he had missed it. And comforting, as if she belonged there.
She stood awkwardly, too stunned to return the gesture. By the time her mind caught up with her body, he was already withdrawing.
"I'm glad you're here." Said Kuon, still smiling that wonderful smile at her.
His words somehow broke through her stupor, and she snapped at him.
"Of course I'm here. You told Shinichi to kidnap me if I tried to run."
"So you did try to run away."
"Urk-!"
As he chuckled at her reaction, she rubbed her arm nervously, too aware of how close they still were. Less than a step away. Why did he do this to her? Despite all her initial fears and doubts, this felt right. Standing here with him and being in his presence, it chased them away.
It wasn't fair.
She noticed that he was examining her. She'd been too engrossed in her own thoughts that she hadn't noticed. Her face heated up before she realized he wasn't aware she had noticed. His brows were scrunched together, eyes trailing her up and down.
"Prince Kuon?" she said.
His attention returned to her face.
"You look well." He said.
"That's because I am."
"Then why did you start crying when we last spoke?"
Kyoko flushed. He had mentioned it. The conversation with the relaywell! If it was her choice she would never use the stupid thing again. Her insides were on the verge of a break down, overwhelming her with embarrassment and information.
What should I say? Will he see through my lie? What if Julie told him? Is he trying to see if I'll confess without him having to bring it up? I can't understand what he's thinking at all! Stupid unexpressive face.
That's when Kyoko got her idea. When all her panicked thoughts blew a top through her heard and she found a strange area of calm. Detached from her previous panic.
Channeling this newfound sense of control, she gave an embarrassed smile.
"Sorry, but I was shaken from the fight." She said. "I didn't mean to worry you."
It was fake. Her face and voice. Her excuse. All of it. She knew it, and she could tell he saw through it, but she didn't drop the mask.
Kuon arched an eyebrow, displeased with her answer.
"Well, you did worry me." Said Kuon. "But if you're feeling better, I am relieved."
"I'm sorry to have worried you." She gave a curtsy, subtly using the motion to move back from him.
He watched her, green eyes examining her every move and reaction. Her heart thudded under the scrutiny, hoping he would let it go. No, this was Prince Kuon. He had a bad habit of pulling things out of her she wanted to hide. If she was going to survive this meeting, she had to be the one to take control.
Kyoko popped up out of her curtsy, smiling politely at him.
"I saw the concubines earlier." She said. Smooth, change the subject. "They said you wanted to see me."
"I did." Said Kuon, keeping one eye on her as he turned to his desk. "I needed to talk to you all about something."
A glitter of blue caught her attention. On the desk sat one of the golden concubine's necklaces.
Kyoko stared, her mind flooding her with information.
The concubine's distress. Kuon wanting to see all of them. She could now place what else had been wrong after seeing the other women. None of them had been wearing their necklaces.
Kuon walked to his desk, gesturing her to sit. She did so, eyes locked on Kuon, her mind now humming.
Kuon laced his fingers together, elbows resting on the desk.
"Kyoko." He said. "I've decided to dismiss the harem."
Thanks for reading! And thank you all those that took the time to review!
Is it bad that the responses of "Nuuu don't make Shin bad" "Omg two weeks sucks." And "THE SHIPS ARE SINKING" made me so happy I laughed myself silly several times these last few weeks? I don't think so. I'm looking at you Tabbykatroses. Haha. Brilliant.
Updates are every two weeks. Any changes will be on my profile.
-Blushweaver
I, Imouto have read and edited this.
Rejected Chapter titles: "Bye Bye Harem." "Y U no Talk 2 each other." "Figure it out yourself I'm writing an essay."