Kyoko doubled over, her sides and lungs aching as she took deep gasps of breath.

That had been close. One of the sand wurms had popped up right beside her, thankfully concentrating on their camel. She hated leaving the creature behind, but there was nothing she could have done for it, nor their supplies. The only thing she now possessed was her bag of medical supplies, a small coin purse and her enchanted waterskin. They were the three things she never wanted to be caught without. Today, her habit had saved the vital items from being devoured.

The others beside her were in similar states of distress. She noticed most had dropped their bags, no longer carrying anything. Those that still had theirs had either dropped from exhaustion or were still trying to catch up with the group. They hadn't stopped running for what seemed like miles.

Cain

Kyoko looked behind her, noticing her lover coming with the rearguard. Even from a distance she could see the blood staining his left arm.

No!

Her feet stumbled forward, shivers of true fear pushing her forward. How had he gotten hurt? The man was powerful enough to fight an Accursed. Had something happened?

The distance was short, but the time seemed long before Kyoko reached Cain. She immediately grabbed his sleeve, tearing away the fabric.

"Sit down," said Kyoko. "You've lost blood so you'll be dizzy and…"

She trailed off.

Where was the cut? His arm was perfectly smooth, darkened from consistent exposure to the sun's rays. She ran a finger along the skin. Nothing. There were no bumps or anything. Not even scars from the last injuries she'd healed. What was going on?

"Cain?" she said. "What…."

Cain pulled his arm away, tugging down the material.

"I'll explain later," he said. "For now, we'll say it's someone else's blood."

Explain later… that meant when no one else was near to hear. Several other stragglers were still close, too close if their conversation needed to be confidential.

Cain took her hand, tugging her along with the group.

"You're unhurt," he said. "I'm glad."

"You came just in time," said Kyoko.

"Not completely. I couldn't save our supplies."

"I don't think many of us could."

It had been such a violent attack. Sand wurms didn't usually form such large hunting groups, nor were they that big. The rumors in the inn hadn't been exaggerated. Things had certainly gotten much more dangerous.

…but it looked like their problems were only just starting.

Kyoko and Cain had reached the group. People were crying, others had fallen in despair, but in the center stood the true source of contention. Bairei was shouting at Murasame and the other guards. The merchant's hood had been pushed back, the man out of breath from shouting atop his camel.

"—deplorable. Every single last chest of medicine was lost because of your horrendous skills."

"This is not my fault," Murasame was shouting back. "If you hadn't changed our course, we wouldn't have walked right over their trap."

"I expected so much better from the supposed best of The Shaded City. Now almost all of my men are gone. How are you going to compensate me?"

"Compensate?" Blue veins bulged from Murasame's forehead. "How many people do you think died because you couldn't stand an extra day in the desert you fat pig? This happened because of you!"

"Silence!" yelled Bairei. "I will not stand for this. You've failed to protect me and my goods. You're not getting a single copper for your service."

"I could care less about the copper! Men and women died today! How can you not care about that?"

The shouting was making those nearby nervous. The air stirred with unease and fear, like a wave gaining strength. This was not good. They were low on supplies and low on morale. Something had to be done to change the situation.

Kyoko stepped forward with the intention to stop their argument.

A hand stopped her.

"Don't," said Cain. "Stay close to me."

A command. Something was wrong if he used that tone on her.

She obeyed, following his gaze to see what he was studying with such intense dislike.

It was the other mercenaries.

A dozen of them had survived. Each pushed their way through the crowd of civilians, not caring who they shoved aside. At the front was a stocky bald man, wurm blood coating his back.

"What's this I hear about not paying us our dues?" the baldy spat.

Though the argument paused for only half a second, the tension spiked exponentially. This… was not going to end well.

"Did you think you deserve it?" shouted Bairei, who obviously hadn't noticed the danger he was in. "You get paid for services performed. This is not a service performed, this is a disaster. I will not lose more money for such sloppy—"

"Shut up!" said Murasame. "You will pay them for their work."

"Absolutely not. I have no intention of paying these mongrels for failing to do their job."

The bald man gave a humorless laugh. "Mongrels, are we?" he said. "Dogs who live off the scraps of others? I guess that would be an accurate description, since you're just a crumb yourself."

"How dare—"

It happened before Kyoko could comprehend it. The baldy's hand darted out, yanking one of the citizens by the hair. The woman cried in pain, but didn't resist. She couldn't, not with the blade pressed to her throat.

It was Manaka.

"You!" shouted Bairei, finally looking distressed. "What do you think you're doing?"

"Getting paid," said Baldy. "Or did you think we would work for free? You're mistaken."

Other swords came out. Other mercenaries pressed forward.

Cain's arm pressed Kyoko harder into his side. She had to resist the urge to run out there and save Manaka. The girl was annoying, but she didn't deserve this. Her eyes were glassed with tears that ran without end. She was obviously terrified.

That went for the other citizens as well. Each family clung to each other, cowering as the other mercenaries pushed them aside in shows of strength. Only a few lucky clustered behind Murasame and his three men evaded the abuse.

But there was a huge difference between four and twelve. It wasn't hard to see who would win this fight.

"Cain…" whispered Kyoko.

"We can't," said Cain. His words were muffled through clenched teeth. She felt the bite of his fingers on her arm. Nausea built up in her stomach. It was a feeling she recognized.

His relic was acting up.

Subtle tendrils of darkness were creeping up his arm. She could feel them brush against her skin, feel their anger. Oh goddess, Cain was fighting his rage again. These men, if they didn't stop, everyone would be in danger.

"Bairei," said Murasame. "Give them the money."

"I…" the merchant choked. "But I…"

"Do it! Or I'll cut you down myself." Murasame's eyes never left the bald man. They took in the surrounding others. He was sizing them up, trying to determine who would win in a fight.

The answer was obvious.

No one would, because either way, too many would die.

Bairei, shaking and blubbering, took a bag from his belt. He tossed it at the baldy, who caught it deftly with one hand. Manaka was pressed even closer to his side as he dropped the coins into one hand, counting their contents.

"Not bad," said Baldy. "Seven gold, twenty silver. You pack light on such a long journey." The bag and coins flashed out a sight, shifting his grip on Manaka again. "But what about the rest of us? My companions need to be paid as well. Now how shall we be compensated I wonder… perhaps the other lovely peasants could give you a hand?"

His words were a trigger. Each of the mercenaries pointed their blades at the nearest citizen.

"Hand over your coins!"

"Shut up and empty your pockets."

"Don't try and cheat me, I can see your coin bag."

In seconds, their protectors had turned thief. Each person was stripped of what goods they had left, patted down and harassed by the honorless thugs. It was horrible.

Darkness fluctuated from Cain. She felt the clink of metal growing up his arm.

Before she could pacify him, an idiot mercenary came up to them. He waved a spear, greedy smile in place. Thankfully he stayed away, no doubt intimidated by Cain's presence.

"You heard the man," said the mercenary. "Pay us for our services. Or are you joining us Cain?"

Cain growled.

Kyoko immediately unstrung her coin purse, throwing it at the man.

"Here, now get out of here," said Kyoko, turning back to Cain. "Listen to me Cain, I'm here. Don't let these maggots stir your anger."

He wasn't listening.

Kyoko grabbed Cain's head. She pressed her forehead against his, knowing he needed to stop. She saw the haze in his eyes. The fight against his anger.

"Look at me," she whispered with strength. "I'm here Cain. Let it go."

"Oi!" said the moron, who still hadn't left. "What about that fine necklace you have?"

Her stomach churned in panic.

The man wanted her necklace? The gift Cain had given to her? No, the man couldn't have it.

Power surged through Cain. It grew stronger,

The mercenary finally noticed that something was wrong. He took a step back from Cain, eyes wide and bulging at the dark mass in front of him.

This needed to stop.

Hands trembling, Kyoko unclasped her necklace and threw it at the man.

"You've gotten your payment," said Kyoko, unable to help the bitterness in her voice. "Now go quickly. Please."

She didn't wait to see if the man had listened. She returned to Cain, pressing against him with a shaky need. Urging and wishing for him to listen. To feel how strongly she wanted him to win against his anger.

"It's alright," said Kyoko in his ear. "I'm here Ren. It's fine. Please…"

She stayed there, arms around his neck and hoping it would work. That his true name would bring him back again. It had worked before. It had to work again.

Slowly, the darkness abated. The cold metal dispersed as Cain's anger lessened.

Relieved, Kyoko withdrew from him, searching his face. He looked exhausted, but cognizant, the glaze of anger gone from his eyes.

"Thank you," he said. "For saving me again."

Kyoko gave a weak smile. "It's what I'm here for," she said.

Cain let out a sigh, placing his forehead against hers. She closed her own eyes as she felt his warmth transferred through their contact.

"I'm sorry about your necklace," said Cain.

So was she. Kyoko had loved that thing but…

"It's fine," said Kyoko. "I've never been one for jewelry."

It was a lie. They both knew it.

Sounds of hoofs brought Kyoko from their refuge. It was the mercenaries, riding away on all the horses still alive. She watched with the others as all their money and supplies disappeared into the hot sands.

That was when what had happened hit her. That they had just been robbed and left to die in the desert. Alone, Kyoko might have freaked and shouted profanities at the dust cloud, but something else distracted her from the internal panic starting to build.

It was Manaka. The woman was huddled against another woman, a thin red line running horizontally across her neck. The woman holding Manaka must have been a family member. They were trying to comfort her, shushing Manaka as they rubbed her back.

Kyoko gave Cain's hand one last squeeze before rushing forward. She plowed through the distraught and panicking people, her heart calming with each step in the wake of chaos.

"Excuse me," said Kyoko, reaching the family member. "I have something that can help her. It's—"

"We don't want anything you have," said the woman, glaring at Kyoko. "Go away, or are you and your husband going to steal from us as well?"

"No I—"

Kyoko stopped, looking around. No one looked back with trust. No one looked back with any semblance of calm. They were lamenting and despairing, wondering how they were going to survive without food or water. She could see a few were injured from the attack. Hurting from being roughed by the mercenaries.

She walked to the closest one.

"Excuse me, I can—"

"Stay away!"

She went to the next one.

"That could get infected. I have—"

"I'm not letting you anywhere near me."

"If you'd just listen to me."

No one did. She was a lone physician standing among injured and distraught patients, yet no one wanted her services. No one trusted her, the wife of a dark mercenary.

"Everyone, calm down," Murasame was saying over the noise. "We're not dead yet. We can make it through the desert. We're only a few days out from The Shaded City. If we leave now and travel quickly we can make it in two days."

"It's hopeless. We're dead!" one person shouted back. "There are monsters out there. We'll die before the sun sets."

"Shut up and listen!" roared Murasame. His calm was completely gone, anger palpable from him. For a moment, it reminded her of Cain. Of the dark intimidating presence that surrounded him. There was no doubt that when provoked, Murasame was a dangerous man. The difference being, it didn't terrify. It inspired.

The others sensed it as well. Sensed Murasame's fighting spirit. She saw it in their faces as they calmed and looked to the person that might save them.

"We are going to live," said Murasame firmly. "I promise you, on my honor as a guardian of the people, I'll get you across the desert alive. I've traversed across these lands countless times and I know them. I know we can make it if we just keep our heads on straight and stick together. Any who are injured, let Nagisa see to you. Everyone get ready to leave. We depart in an hour."

Not the most impressive speech Kyoko had heard, but it did its job. The frenzy calmed, as people prepared to leave. One of the soldiers, no doubt Nagisa started making his way through the most heavily injured, helping them close wounds and clean cuts.

Kyoko walked back mutely to Cain's side, unable to help the dejected feeling in her heart.

"Do you think we can make it?" said Kyoko.

"We can," said Cain, gesturing to their enchanted waterskins. "I won't let anything hurt you. The others… I can't guarantee I can save them all. Not without…"

"I understand."

He could only cover so much ground without using his Accursed powers.

"We can share our water supply at least," said Kyoko, taking the waterskin from her side. The enchanted space still held enough water for two weeks. It could help at least a few others. "I'll give it to Murasame. I doubt anyone would take it from me if I offered." Cain's waterskin would be enough for both of them.

Cain followed as they trudged over to Murasame. He was currently speaking with his men, making plans and preparing to set out. Their conversation stopped when one of the men noticed them. He hit Murasame on the arm, alerting the soldier to their presence.

"You're still here," said Murasame. He seemed genuinely surprised by the fact. While his companions held their hands ready at their sword hilt, Murasame didn't. His reaction to their presence was more measured. More curious. "Why? Unless you stayed to watch us all die."

"I thought you promised to save everyone," replied Cain. "Or were those words just bluster?"

Murasame snorted. "What about you? Weren't you worth five of our best men? Why didn't you help?"

"If I had, everyone would have died."

Murasame's eyes narrowed.

He obviously hadn't understood Cain's reply. If he had, he would have turned white, sputtered nonsense and probably wet himself. When Cain said everyone would have died, he meant it. Everyone would have died. Such was the power of Cain's anger when provoked.

"Worthless," scoffed Murasame. "What do you want? I've got enough problems now without you causing more."

"We came to help," said Kyoko. The man's attention shifted to her as if seeing her for the first time. She held out her waterskin. "The bottle is enchanted to hold more than its size. I wasn't sure what our supplies looked like but… I wanted to offer it just in case."

Murasame didn't move, still staring at her.

Please take it, she thought. Don't be the idiot I think you are.

He proved to be better.

Murasame took the waterskin, handing it to one of his soldiers.

"Test it for the normal poisons," he said, eyes locked with Kyoko's. "If it's clear, add it to our inventory."

Kyoko rolled her eyes. "Oh, for the love of—"

She snatched the waterskin from the men, bringing it to her lips. She deliberately took a long draft, letting them see the water pass her lips. The man had frozen to watch her as she wiped her lips with a hand.

"Satisfied?" said Kyoko, shoving the waterskin back into Murasame's chest. "If it wasn't already apparent, we have no interest in causing any harm."

Murasame placed his hands over the skin, allowing Kyoko to let go. He was watching Kyoko with a peculiar look on his face. It shifted to Cain, who had stepped up beside her.

"Fine," said Murasame. "Fine. I don't have time to deal with you two anyway."

The man pointed a finger at Cain. "Make sure to get that injury looked after. You're our rear guard now."

With that, Murasame walked off, making his way through the people and grumbling the whole way. The soldier he had left eyed Kyoko and Cain with caution, carefully stepping away without putting them to his back. They all did, and in a few moments, where Cain and Kyoko had been close to the center of the group, twenty feet of empty space stretched on each side.

Kyoko tried not to let it bother her. She was used to isolation… or at least she used to be. It still hurt to see this reaction from people she was trying to help. Cain didn't appear the least perturbed. He sat down cross-legged, patting the ground for her to join him.

"Let's rest while we can," said Cain. "The next two days are going to be long."

She joined him on the ground, grimacing as the wind kicked sand into her face. She leaned her head against Cain's shoulders to shield her face from the sun.

Why did things constantly have to go so wrong?

Life was too short to waste. When something uninteresting or unpleasant came along, it was time to move on and find something more entertaining. Something that didn't bring you down. It was Shin's own personal philosophy, one he shared with his sister. Thankfully, he didn't also share her horrible taste in the type of entertainment she enjoyed.

Shin flopped down into the cushion with all the grace of a camel. He swiped a glass from one of the nearby servers with the intention to enjoy every drop of sweet wine he could. Perhaps even persuade one of the dancers to oblige him in a number.

"I can't believe I'm related to that woman," Shin complained. "She's an evil viper whose sole purpose in life is to bring misery to those around her. I've never seen someone so happy amongst such confusion and chaos. If I didn't know any better, I'd say she was an Accursed."

"You've been saying things like that for years," said the man sitting by Shin. He said it with a tired patience that spoke of extensive experience dealing with Shin's shenanigans. Which, they were not shenanigans. They were legitimate concerns that should not be overlooked. Especially considering how unpleasant they made Shin's life. He was determined to enjoy life, and Natsu's tormenting was not going to stop him.

"But I'm not wrong," said Shin, pointing to his friend with cup still in hand. "You've dealt with her before Zahir. Remember the necklace incident with your fiancé?"

Zahir's eyebrows twitched, an open indication of his irritation. Yes, Shin's friend remembered that incident well. It had caused all sorts of drama that had, admittedly, eventually led to his engagement with his current fiancé, but it had not been pleasant at the time.

Zahir took a calm drink from his goblet, no doubt using the moment to gather his thoughts before speaking. He was only a few years older than Shin, but the man sometimes had the impossible patience of an old man.

"She just arrived then?" said Zahir. "Your sister and her husband. Did you just see her to her room?"

Changing the subject. Typical. Zahir was a master of manipulating the subject away from anything that could be potentially offensive. It was an art he had acquired over years dealing with the politics of Ashuron. He had to, being half Ashuron and half Aquerterious. The heritage was evident in his appearance. Skin pale as the sands and dark hair highlighted by a single blue streak. One glance was all anyone needed to know what he was.

Just as anyone that saw Shin's aura could identify him as a royal.

"I didn't see her to her room," said Shin. "I saw her to her rooms. She insists on having several. Though, for what reason she needs that much space is beyond me."

"Women are often not logical."

"I'll drink to that," said Shin, lifting his glass and taking a swig.

"You'll drink to anything."

"I'll drink to that as well."

Zahir shook his head in exasperation.

Shin observed his friend over the rim of his goblet.

Something was different about Zahir. He was usually exasperated with Shin, but he was more often amused. It was one of the things Shin appreciated about his friend. People with open senses of humor were hard to come by in the political world. Even if Zahir himself had about as much comedic ability as a stick.

"At least one person is having a good time among this mess," grumbled Shin, thinking of his sister. Shin wasn't upset that his father was dead. Well… to be honest, he was. Bastard or not, it had been his father. Shin wasn't wholly unaffected. That would have been calloused. But when he thought about how horrible and evil the man had been, Shin's sadness drained away.

Even excusing his betrayal, the man had been a bastard to everyone, especially to Shin's mother. Shin had spent the greater part of his youth comforting and taking care of her, constantly cleaning up after every affair and mess Masato had created. His sister on the other hand… well, with a horrible father like that, it was no wonder she came out a little twisted.

The clink of metal brought Shin from his musing. Zahir had set down his goblet, leaning forward on his crossed knees. He looked especially pale in the dark long sleeved robes he wore.

Shin let the silence stretch, waiting for his friend to gather his thoughts. The room continued to buzz with other conversations, men and servers mingled through the chamber. Just another evening in the gathering room where occupants of the palace could mix.

Except it wasn't. It hadn't been the same since the attack.

"Sulmod is gathering names for a no confidence vote," said Zahir.

Shin bolted upright, ignoring the wine sloshing over the rim of his cup.

"He's doing what?" said Shin, irate. This definitely went under the 'very bad' category of events. "What in Vaith's name does he think he has any right to call for that?"

Anger flashed in Zahir's eyes as they flickered over to Shin. The man had always hated it when Shin cursed. "He has every right," said Zahir. "He's a member of the council like me. We all have the ability to call for it Shin."

"Just because you have the ability doesn't mean you have the right. What idiocy is going through this man's head?"

"I wouldn't call it all idiocy."

Shin paused. Had he just heard Zahir - a man who was constantly discriminated against by Sulmod - defend the moron?

"Please tell me you're joking," said Shin. "Uncle Kuu was selected by our protector to guide and rule over Ashuron. Are you saying that our Demi-Goddess was wrong?"

"I'm saying no such thing," said Zahir, bristling more at the comment. It was odd to see the man so emotional. Well... not too odd considering the topic. "Rosa is dead and it was during King Kuu's rule. Things are bad, Shin. Monsters are spawning everywhere, no one knows who can be trusted and we just lost our biggest source of hope. People want to point the finger at someone, and unfortunately most of them point to your uncle. I'm just not sure how many of those fingers are unfounded."

"I can't believe I'm hearing this," said Shin. "I would never have expected this sort of cowardly behavior from you."

Zahir's eyes narrowed. "Things change Shin," said Zahir. "At one point, your uncle may have been the man Ashuron needed, but that is obviously no longer the case. Whatever his character, it does nothing for us if our enemies are able to circumvent our defenses so easily. We even lost the plans for the inhibitors."

"Are you trying to convince me?" said Shin, "Or yourself, because you seem to be doing a bang-up job of both."

"I'm merely stating the facts," said Zahir. He had calmed, turning cold and matter of fact. "These events call to question your uncle's ability to rule. It's not like I wanted this to happen."

"Fine then," said Shin, holding up his hands. "You are entitled to your opinion. I get it." If Zahir wanted to join the other self-serving jerks with cotton stuffed in their ears, Shin wasn't going to stop him.

"Shin…" Then Zahir didn't look so cold. He was obviously distressed, though not enough in Shin's opinion.

"I don't want to hear your excuses," said Shin. "It's obvious that you've already made your decision."

Zahir opened his mouth, but Shin interrupted him.

"No, I want you to listen for a moment," said Shin, setting down his cup. He somehow managed to keep his voice down, aware of the people around them. The whispers and glances that had already started. He should let this go all together. Let this simmer out instead of fan it into a full-blown blaze.

But he didn't.

"The King was betrayed by my father," said Shin, pointing a finger to his chest. "The same King also fought a good friend and watched his own son fall apart. His wife is even now sitting in the clinic unable to walk after an Accursed tried to kill her for powering up the inhibitor." He pointed his finger in a circular motion, signaling all of Ashuron. "Despite this, despite all the horrible things that happened, the man is tirelessly trying to rebuild everything. Giving everything to protecting his kingdom. And you think a man with that sort of love and dedication for his people is unfit for rule?"

"The heart can not always make up for the mind," said Zahir. The fight had gone from his friend, sympathy evident. "King Kuu will always have my highest respect as an honest and selfless man, but he failed to protect us from this calamity. That is something that cannot be disputed."

Shin folded his arms, grumbling. They had no idea the other disasters that Kuu and Lory had prevented over the years. Granted, that was the point. To take care of the horrible details so that others could live in peaceful bliss. In this case, that secrecy had backfired on them.

Zahir stood, many eyes of the room subtly following the half-Ashuron.

"I'm sorry Shin," said Zahir. "I know you didn't like your father but… I'm still sorry for what happened. Your family has gone through enough. I hate to even think about this, but it is my duty to vote in the interest of Ashuron, and I'm honestly not sure what that vote is."

"Thanks for that at least," said Shin. He adopted a trill in his words, imitating Zahir's light accent. " 'Even if it's misguided, I can't say your heart isn't in the right place.' Isn't that one of your favorite quotes to throw at me?"

A shadow of a smile graced Zahir's features. "And I thought you never listened when I was talking."

"You mean lecturing," corrected Shin.

"Yes…" Zahir trailed off, his eyes skirting the edges of the room. He seemed to have just noticed the sneaky audience they had gathered. Fingers tugged at the end of his sleeve in a nervous twitch. His voice lowered, but didn't lose any of its self-assurance. "Sulmod still hasn't officially put in a notice. I just wanted to warn you before it got to King Kuu. I'd hate for him to be blindsided by this. Consider this a warning… for our friendship."

Some friendship that turned out to be.

Shin didn't answer, knowing the sort of foul language that would come spouting out if he did. Instead, he glared as Zahir turned and left, sending Shin one last concerned glance before exiting.

A tired sigh left Shin's lips as he sank into his overstuffed cushion, resting his head on the backrest. He maneuvered his glass to place it on his forehead, half his mind occupied with the task of balancing it. The other half was reviewing everything that Zahir had said.

What had come over his friend to say things like that? Had hope sunk so low that people were losing faith in Kuu? Were they really going to consider Sulmod's proposal for a no confidence vote?

The worst part of their conversation was that Shin couldn't refute much of what his friend had said. Things had gotten bad. Really bad. There were a lot of extenuating circumstances but it was the King's duty to overlook them and protect the people. To put them first. Then there was Kuu's current state of mind. He'd lost too much recently. Too much of his beloved family had been split and broken. Would the man let this break him, or push him forward?

This sucks, thought Shin. These were the type of things he hated. Depressing, icky doubt directed at those he cared about. It was much easier to spy and collect information when it wasn't about people he liked. Sometimes working behind the scenes with Lory was fun, but times like this where he had all the information but couldn't bring it forward in defense of his uncle… those moments sucked.

He needed to vent some steam

I can't go training, he thought. His wounds from the psycho snake lady weren't done healing. Then there was that gash he'd gotten yesterday from a skeletal undead raid… He probably shouldn't have gone on that.

Books are boring. People suck right now since they're all talking about the same thing.

There was still one thing that Shin could do to occupy his time. Something that always perked him up.

"Excuse me, Lord Shin?"

Shin snatched the cup from his head, sitting up to see who was speaking to him. It was one of the servers, the woman wearing a delightfully decorated bra that left little to the imagination. She was blinking up at Shin with large lined eyes, biting at her bottom lip in the universal sign of desire. Everything was curvy and plush, all the way from her hips to her black hair.

And Shin was completely uninterested.

"Would you like me to get you another drink?" said the woman, stretching forth acrylic coated nails. Her eyes were lidded, fluttering thick lashes at him. "I can get you something else if you're still thirsty." There was no doubt exactly what type of drink she was implying.

"Thanks, Dearie," said Shin, waving his cup. "But I've recently acquired a taste for a certain tart drink you can't get here anymore."

With an apologetic nod, Shin stood up, walking out of the room and through the halls.

Gosh he missed Kanae. That frustrating woman had left quite the hole in his heart. No other woman had fit so perfectly, full of an energy and a fire that enticed him. She wasn't boring like other women who only saw him for his smiles and position. She was interesting, strong and called him out on his crap when he was being obnoxious - and damn it if that last one wasn't hot.

Trust a woman to mess me up, chuckled Shin to himself. Talk about sad. He should have just gone with her if he was going to mope like Kuon did with Kyoko.

In the corridor ahead, Shin spotted one of the men he was looking for. Kouki was currently alone, a rare sight for the Grand Duke. He was usually surrounded by other important men doing important politicly things. A sword was belted to his side, embroidered tunic somewhat rumpled from the day's events. No doubt he was getting as little sleep as Kuu.

Shin raised a hand in greeting, still only halfway down the hall. "Yo, Great High Lord Duke Kouki," said Shin, raising his voice. People turned to look, which just made him grin harder. "Or is it Highest of Duke Lords Takarada? I get so confused."

Even from across the hall, Shin could see Kouki's frown.

Yes! Successfully annoyed Kouki for the day.

Not that it was terribly hard.

He kept waving as he approached, genuinely delighted to see a friendly face. Or at least a friendly face that wasn't going to turn around and stab him in the back.

"Hey, Shin," said Kouki with half a grin. He'd obviously already gotten rid of his annoyance. "To what do I owe this incidence of public humiliation?"

Shin jabbed a thumb over his shoulder. "It was to save you from the awkward tortoises seated over there. They were giving you the shifty eyes that said they wanted to talk to you."

Kouki frowned with an appreciative nod. "A fair reason, though probably not the true one."

"You're right. I did it for the hell of it."

Kouki barked a laugh, motioning for Shin to follow him. To an outsider, it would look like a normal exchange. A normal greeting between friends.

Except Shin had used the word 'tortoise'. A code word indicating they needed to speak privately.

They walked for a time, chatting and talking politely with people they passed. It wasn't for another fifteen minutes that Shin and Kouki finally reached an empty room they knew was warded with spells to keep sound from escaping.

The second Kouki closed the door, he turned a frown to Shin.

"What is it?" said Kouki.

"Sulmod is recruiting people for a no confidence vote," said Shin, cutting to the chase.

Kouki let out a hiss, shaking his head with an annoyed grimace.

"I thought this may happen," said Kouki. "But I had hoped they were smarter than this. Do they think changing the monarchy when we're unstable is a good idea? They know Kuu is not evil and that he has Ashuron's best interest at heart. Who's going to rule if not Kuu?"

"Careful," said Shin. "If you keep talking like that, people will start thinking you think they're morons."

Kouki gave Shin a look that said, 'would you stop and be serious for a moment?'

Shin shrugged. "Hey, you're the one implying that they're idiots."

"They're not idiots, they just don't think things through all the way," said Kouki. "How long do we have before this gets out?"

"I think we're late to the party again," said Shin. "Or I just personally handed out the invites. Zahir was the one to tell me and it sounds like he's going to vote with Sulmod."

Kouki ran a hand down his face. "Which means you lost your head and people heard. Well, let's hope this is the worst news I'll hear all day…"

The Grand Duke looked at the clock, still frowning.

"I've got to go," said Kouki. "I've got another meeting… can you tell Dad for me?"

"Yes sir," said Shin, giving an enthusiastic salute. "Anything for my good friend, the Grand Duke Takarada."

Kouki paused at the door, pointing an annoyed finger at Shin. "And stop teaching my daughter those sticky spells. Maria gets in enough trouble without you encouraging her."

"Yes sir," said Shin, doing the same salute. "Anything for my good friend, the Grand Duke Tak—"

Kouki shut the door before Shin could finish.

Lory was trying very hard not to despair. It was hard when there was so much doom and gloom in every direction he looked. He'd dealt in the shadows for a long time, but this was the first time it had affected him this much. Brought him this close to wondering if they could make it.

His hand closed around another softer one, unmoving save the soft pulse beneath his fingertips. It belonged to a sleeping woman. A woman Lory had never allowed himself to pursue for the exact fear he now had. The fear of losing another woman he loved.

Jelly Woods still hadn't woken up. None of the other champions had. He'd been hopeful with the Matsuni boy, but even he had eventually fallen into a deep sleep.

Was this because Rosa was gone? Was their magic and essence now so thoroughly connected to the Phoenix that her death had caused this? Lory had no idea, and none of his research was giving him any definitive facts. Whatever was happening though, it was happening to all of them.

There was a knock, and someone entered.

"There you are," said Shin, the lad walking in. "…is what I would say if I was surprised, but I'm not. You and Kuu need to switch places."

Lory stood, leaving Jelly to approach his work table. There was another light circle he hadn't tried yet.

"The king visited his wife earlier this morning," said Lory. "Your aunt would love to see you. She's getting bored."

"That's Aunt Julie for you," laughed Shin. "The world is imploding and she's concerned with being bored. I could send Natsu down if she's that desperate."

No one should be that desperate in Lory's opinion.

Lory shifted through his notes, glancing through the room. It was dim, the lights lowered to imitate the waning light outside. Usually it was a helpful reminder that Lory needed to retire and get some rest. It was a mechanism both Julie and Jelly had bullied him into accepting. Usually it brought a smile to his face, but the haunting shadows that decorated each occupied bed served to increase his foreboding instead.

"Sulmod is going to cast a no confidence vote," said Shin.

"Of course, he is," grumbled Lory, returning to his research. He plucked the storage stone from the pedestal, letting the words from the pages bleed away. That book had been useless. "He's probably going to vote that he takes command instead of Kouki as well. The man thinks too highly of himself and his knowledge of history."

"I can't dispute that," agreed Shin. "Though I'm surprised you'll admit it. You really must be tired. Or you're just sick of putting up with the other noble's pretentious bluster."

Lory shifted through the gems, finding the ruby he was looking for. He pressed the polished stone into the pedestal, waiting for the information to load. Ink slowly weaved through the pages, depicting diagrams and paragraphs about magic circles.

"We'll need to find out everyone's loyalties," said Lory. "And to make sure there isn't any blackmail going on behind the scenes. We'll also need to find out if they have any incriminating information they can bring to the trial."

"You mean make up," said Shin. "You think it's possible it could pass?"

"There's a very real danger that it could. Rosa is gone, and if another Accursed attack happens… we'd be hard pressed to keep Kuu in command."

It was hard to admit, but it was a very real danger. As if they didn't have enough going on with spies and monsters hammering their walls, now they had good men being misled by fear and self-serving politicians. An attack both inside and out. The question was if this was another plot of the Accursed, or was it just a natural result of the disasters?

Lory wasn't sure which one would be better.

At least our biggest threat is no longer here, thought Lory. Masato was gone, and no doubt the main plot to take over the kingdom. The bad news was that there were still at least three other Accursed. Four if they counted Kuon. Then there was the relic Kyoko had acquired from Reino that still hadn't shown up since it had been stolen.

Though I can't underestimate Hirotaka, thought Lory. If only the man hadn't fallen…

But he had. And Lory would have to stop him.

"Any more news from Kuon?" said Shin. The man had attempted to drop the question casually. If he wasn't holding on of Lory's books upside down, he might have been more convincing.

"None," said Lory. "It's probably for the best. We can't do anything to help them from here. We have to leave Kuon in Kyoko's hands."

"Right…" said Shin, frowning at the pages. "Right. She's the only one that can help. At least she finally understands how important she is to him. Those two were annoying to watch."

Lory snorted. He wasn't completely wrong.

"Go talk to the other councilors," said Lory. "Find out who's with us, who's against us and why. I want to know every reason people have for going against our King. Hopefully, we'll be able to convince them what a stupid idea it would be siding with Sulmod."

"Right away Sir," said Shin. "After I get some sleep. It's getting late, and unless I want to drink and party with them, I won't get any work done."

Lory stopped, turning to stare at the man. Shin's hereditarily handsome face slowly blossomed in understanding.

"Wait a second," said Shin, hitting his head. "That's exactly what I'm supposed to do. Silly me, how could I forget?"

"Kanae had some strange effects on you," said Lory.

"That she did," said Shin, already halfway out the door. "Can't let Kuon take all the spotlight. I enjoy a good relationship drama myself."

The door shut before Lory could tell Shin he still had his book.

Lory shook his head, motioning to the side of the room.

"Sebastian," said Lory.

The man stepped from the shadows, garbed in his usual encompassing attire. Only his eyes were visible.

"Yes?" said Sebastian.

"Keep an eye on the councilors," said Lory. "Make note of any that are suspicious or may need extra protection. I'll make a list as well and we'll compare notes. I don't want any surprises regarding loyalties."

Sebastian bowed, disappearing through shadows and secret passageways. It was somewhat dishonest to have Shin and Sebastian spy and tail the other councilors, but much of Lory's work walked the border between right and wrong. His reasoning was as long as he didn't abuse his power for his own gain, then it was alright. For the most part.

Lory found himself beside Jelly's bed again, not remembering drifting here. His eyes lingered on the pale deceitfully young face before him.

"I'll find a way to help you," Lory promised, kissing the back of her hand. "I won't let you sleep forever."

Thanks for reading! And a huge thank you for those that left a review! I don't write individual thank you pm's most of the time, is that a bad thing? Regardless, I do appreciate each one, even if I'm too out-of-my-mind-shy to write individual thank yous. For some reason, internet/phone communication is so much more daunting to me than in person communication.

I hope you all had fun reading from Shin's perspective (That was the first time btw). I almost wrote his exchange with Natsu, but then I realized it wasn't important to plot. I also don't have time to mess with her character as she – much like Shin—is a person that takes over the scene and plot without trying. :D

Next update: TBD

For those that asked for specifics, the podcasts I've been a part of include Anime reflux episodes: Jewelpet, X-TV, Girl beats boys, Actually I am…., Phantasy star online 2, and a few others but those are the more recent. Like I've said, I'm really quiet in most episodes.

And yes Mila, I do delight in my readers pain. I think most writers do. XD Also, I already drew the concubines along with a few other characters. If you look on my profile you can find a link to see them.

And thank you all again for the well-wishes! Whoo marriage.

-Blushweaver