Shin's men were dead. They hadn't been destroyed yet, but there was nothing he could do to save them. He'd been outmaneuvered by a ruthless tyrant who had sacrificed the many to attain victory. It was his loss.

"Your witchcraft is showing," said Shin. "Who rolls five sixes in a row? You have to be cheating."

"Oh Dearie," cooed the woman. She was sitting on a bed, back against the headboard. Julie flipped her hair in that annoyingly superior way women did when they wanted to make a point. "It's only cheating if you can tell how I'm doing it. Which you have yet to figure it out. That is, if I am cheating at all."

"Which means that you are."

Shin grumbled watching as the queen deftly maneuvered a ceramic piece across a game board. It hopped across Shin's defenses and stopped right in front of his Calvary. The queen rolled her die, and Shin let out another groan when it landed on five. Julie squealed with delight.

"And that's the game!" she said, smirking as if she'd won a great war. "I'm not sure how you do it Shin, but you seem to be getting worse."

Shin continued to pout as his aunt tittered about his lousy skills. Despite still being bedridden, the woman was as energetic as ever. Maybe even more so. With nothing to do but sit and brush her hair, the woman was antsy for any social interaction she could get. Even the guards stationed to protect her complained about her complaining. And those men were known for putting up with a lot of grief. Julie was determined to make everyone as miserable as she was for being stuck in bed.

Okay, maybe she wasn't that bad, but hell! Shin still couldn't figure out how she managed to cheat and win every time they played supremacy.

"Remind me to trip you the next time you have therapy," grumbled Shin, putting the pieces in their wooden box.

"Don't be a sore loser," said Julie. "It's unbecoming. Kanae wouldn't approve."

"Ah, but you see Aunt, that's the thing. Kanae's disapproval is exactly what I strive for. Nothing is as captivating as the piercing glare of her stormy eyes."

A ceramic castle bounced off Shin's head. Aunt Julie had thrown it at him.

"Your pining is giving me a headache," said Aunt Julie. "Why didn't you just go with her to find Kuon?"

Shin rubbed his temple where it had hit. That had hurt. The corners of those things were not kind. "I've told you, I have people to take care of here."

"There are too many people in the palace to begin with," scoffed Julie. "Leave and go help her find my son. That's the most useful thing you could be doing."

Shin just chuckled in response. She'd been saying a lot of things like this recently. Pushing him and Uncle Kuu away. Insisting that others leave her and go 'help my son' 'save the kingdom' or 'find a decent hairdresser'. Her immobilized legs were making the melancholy of losing Kuon that much harder. They all knew it was unlikely that Kyoko and Kuon would come back.

So, Aunt Julie barked at everyone to stay away so she could cry alone in her room.

Shin made it a personal goal to visit her every other day, even if she didn't want him there. On the off days, he visited his still mourning mother. He had plenty of people to take care of.

Julie finished placing the pieces in their box, her body becoming purposefully still.

"Any news?" she asked, her voice a tad too high. "I'm due to die any day now. I want to see my baby boy one last time before I leave this earth." Her hands suddenly shook, causing the box to spill. The pieces fell into her lap, a few bouncing to the ground.

Shin bent down to pick up the pieces. He placed them on her lap beside the game board. "You're not going to die," he said. "Tried that, remember? Didn't work or feel great so I'd steer clear of that option."

Julie's glare was just shy of its usual heat. "Don't tease. Have you heard anything?"

"No, not since the first report." And they'd been lucky to get that.

"Well, I'm sure he's fine and Kyoko is taking care of him," said Julie. "I hope she's making him eat. He's too thin as it is. It's so hard to relinquish a mother's duties to another woman, especially when I can't see him. And I was only getting to know Kyoko too. Does she know that he gets in these awful funks and needs a hand getting out of them?"

The queen continued to ramble. The only reason Shin didn't call her out on her overbearing motherly tirade was that it was obviously a distraction.

"As much as I love listening to the lectures meant for your future daughter-in-law," said Shin, standing up. "I've got work to do."

"You're just trying to run from a rematch," she grinned.

Shin held his hands up in defeat, leaving the room. He nodded to the guards at the front, strolling down the hall.

Now that he had escaped from Julie's room, where should he go next? Train? Talk to Lory? Bother some more council members to find out if they were for or against his uncle? Sometimes it was hard living a life with no set schedule. Just a list of duties and things he could do at any point at any day. It was exhausting coming up with his own schedule.

It did allow him to wander, so, wander he did. Everyday. Until he found something interesting. That was the secret to his ability to know things he shouldn't. He just wandered until he found the one person who looked like they were up to no good and there it was! Someone interesting to follow.

"Now where do you think you're going?" muttered Shin, craning his neck over the mass of people in the main hall. Just past their heads, he spotted the new Captain of the Royal Guards. Ammar was his name? Yes. A middle-aged man with a babyface. He was walking with a smooth gait that tricked the eye into thinking he was moving slower than he actually was. People only moved like that when they were hiding something.

So, naturally, Shin wanted to know what that something was.

He followed, discreetly, nodding and waving good-naturedly to the few that bowed to him. Not too many did these days. People were suspicious of the whole family now that two of them had turned out to be Accursed. At least it made avoiding ex-conquests much easier.

He strolled down the steps and out into the streets. Thanks to his muted clothing, it was easy to blend in without being spotted by Ammar. People jostled him as he passed. The mass was a strange mixture. Too many people had fled the city and too many had come seeking refuge.

Shin followed Ammar through the inner-city and straight past the slums. It was impossible to follow without being seen at this point. Shin lagged far enough away that if Ammar turned around he wouldn't be able to make out the details of Shin's face.

It was agriculture from this point. Leagues of farmland that used the annual swelling of the river to fertilize the land for future crops. The wheat fields on either side looked sad compared to their previous years. Things still didn't look so great.

Shin was so busy examining a limp husk of wheat that he spotted the heels of Ammar's shoes disappearing down a lane. Shin jogged to catch up lest he lose the man in this maze of plants. At the entrance of the dirt road he stopped, peering down the lane.

What was Dyrus, former captain of the royal guards doing all the way out here with the new Captain? The two of them were talking heatedly by a water reservoir. Shin quieted his steps with a spell as he got closer, not wanting to miss what they were saying.

"… This is beneath you," Ammar was saying. "Please, Captain. Return to where you belong beside the king and fight this evil with us."

Dyrus barely spared Ammar a glance. The man looked much smaller in normal civilian wear. Dirt coated the underside of his fingernails, beard wiry and unkempt. He was indistinguishable from the other farmers in the area.

"My work here is good work," said Dyrus. "Please. Just stop coming. You're disturbing me."

Ammar wasn't put off. He kept arguing. Demanding that Dyrus return. Shin got the impression that Ammar was doing this almost every other day. Man, and Shin thought he had it bad. At least Aunt Julie pretended to be optimistic. Dyrus looked like he might collapse at any minute.

After witnessing several minutes of this one-sided conversation, Shin decided he'd seen enough.

"Captain," said Shin, walking closer to interrupt their conversation. And whew, could Ammar send heated glares! He was not happy to see Shin, that was for sure.

"May I help you with something, Lord Hizuri?" said Ammar. "What is so important that you had to follow me from the palace?"

"Nothing really," said Shin, smiling. A good smile was always the right response to someone's anger. "I just thought you looked like you were doing something important. Why aren't you on guard duty?"

"Even a Captain has time off," ground out Ammar.

"I can see that." His gaze wandered to Dyrus. "I didn't realize you were interested in agriculture Dyrus. The job change is sudden, but the downtrodden peasant is a good look for you. Really goes with the mud you got right there on your face."

The jab didn't elicit a response from Dyrus. It did get Ammar to turn fully to Shin, face thunderous. At least his intentionally insensitive words had partially worked.

"Lord Hizuri," he said. "Royalty you may be, but Captain Dyrus is a decorated and celebrated soldier who – unlike some men I know – stood against the Accursed multiple times. He deserves your respect."

"I've fought the Accursed before too," grumbled Shin. "I even got a scar from it. Look, I can show you." Shin made a show of fumbling for the front of his shirt.

"Regardless of your claims," said Ammar, his tone making it clear how false he thought those claims were. "I demand that you apologize to the Captain for your words."

"What was wrong with them? I was praising him for his new job choice. If you believe my praise to be a slight then I'm not the one demeaning Captain Dyrus for his new occupational choice."

Ammar sputtered, obviously not used to twisting words like Shin was. It was always when men were angry and flustered that they accidentally revealed their true feelings and motivations.

"I have the highest regard for Captain Dyrus," said Ammar.

"Obviously, since you're all the way out here questioning his life choices."

"I'm just—"

"Captain Ammar," said Dyrus, finally speaking. A hint of his usual self manifested in the weight of his voice as he addressed the soldier. He was obviously done with them. "Leave. Now. I will not say it again. You have a responsibility and it is not to me. If you feel as deeply as you claim about your duty, you should hasten to return to your king's side."

Ammar's mouth clamped shut, looking between Shin and Dyrus. He teetered with indecisiveness, that commanding look from Dyrus breaking the walls. Ammar finally nodded.

"I'll be back," he promised. "And I am not the Captain. I have not formally accepted the title. I am only standing in as the acting captain. Your men are waiting for your return when you are ready."

With that, Ammar marched past Shin and back up the path. It left Shin alone with Dyrus, whose gaze threatened pain if Shin continued to bother him.

"Don't look at me like that, I'm here for Ammar," said Shin. "Not everything's about you."

With those words, the former captain dismissed Shin as easily as a rock, going back to his work. Shin wasn't insulted, only feeling a twinge of sympathy at seeing this once great man harrowed up with so much pain. This type of work was probably good for him. It forced the body to move and helped to cultivate life. It was better than the copious amount of alcohol he had consumed in the first week.

Shin jogged back up the path, closing in on Ammar. The man was walking quickly, still upset. Shin slowed to match his stride.

"Want to get a drink?" said Shin.

"I have no stomach for wine right now," said Ammar, eyes still forward.

"Then what about a beer? I know a tavern that's got a good selection. Not too expensive for your 'acting captain's' income."

That had been a new bit of information. He hadn't known that Ammar hadn't formally taken the title.

"No," said Ammar. "I'm not in the mood for a drink."

"Well I am, and I'd like some company."

Ammar narrowed his eyes. His scrutiny made it clear he didn't like Shin. Or trust him, which was silly. Why else would someone ask to go drinking with you if not to drink and talk?

Nope. Never mind. Shin had managed to steal, poison, kidnap, and trade information by going out for drinks. There was a good reason for Ammar to be hesitant, except it was Shin! He was the most harmless outgoing guy in the kingdom. Or so most people thought.

That reputation worked as Ammar dismissed his suspicions and agreed.

"I guess it wouldn't hurt," said Ammar. "I'd like to know why you were following me in the first place."

"That's a good man," said Shin, slapping Ammar on the back. The soldier jerked forward, nearly tripping. "Driven. Inquisitive. Loyal to those he follows and protects. I'm going to buy you a round in thanks for your services."

"Um, thanks," said Ammar. "Forgive my outburst from before, but I do believe you were too flippant with the Captain. He is unstable and demeaning him further will not help-"

"He's not a flower, acting captain," interrupted Shin. "He's more like a tree that's been beaten and weathered great storms. No, I'd say he's more like a rock that's taken one too many swings of a hammer."

Ammar's frown deepened. He had not liked being interrupted. Shin's grin grew, grabbing Ammar around the shoulders as they walked. It was probably only years of ingrained respect for the royal family that the man didn't shove Shin away.

"Come, we will drink to your new position and health," said Shin. "And to Dyrus's new glorious calling in life."

"I said I'm coming," insisted Ammar. "But I'm not drinking."

Thirty minutes later, five beers stood as a testament against Ammar. The man was inebriated to the point of unfiltered blabber, swaying where he sat. Sheesh, he was a lightweight. Dyrus must not have allowed them to drink when he was in command. As such, it was a lovely opportunity for Shin to hear what the new guard thought of him.

It was most of what Ammar talked about, actually. He spoke of little else. How lazy Shin was. How indulgent his life allowed him to be. How much better of a man Prince Kuon had been. Ammar had no doubt that Shin was not an Accursed merely because the Accursed would never want him on their side. He'd never get anything done.

"I'm sorry," said Ammar. He'd lost all semblance of his noble bearing, speaking with a commoner's ascent as he downed another drink. "I shouldn' be rude to yah, being a Hizuri an' all. But when I think about you being next in line for tha throne, I jus…"

"Don't worry, I'm not insulted," said Shin, still nursing his first beer. He wasn't a fan of the drink. Too earthy a taste for him, but duty called so he had to drink it. "I'm just glad someone's saying this to my face."

It defiantly beat all the whispers that followed him. They buzzed like flies attracted to decay, ever present and impossible to shoo away. He was used to rumors thanks to his indulgent reputation, but these were different. These smelled of malice. Thankfully, it was only in the palace they circulated with the intention to draw blood. Taverns like this stayed friendly to a Hizuri, even if they were a little awed by his presence.

The acting captain was swaying again, freely offering up everything that came to his mind. Shin had long since learned anything he might need to know. He was just reluctant to go back to that buzzing palace. Was that what Kuon had to endure for years when he went dark? Or when people learned of his curse?

"I just get to thinking," continued Ammar, smacking his lips. "Just where is the monarchy goin? Those council fools are going to… yah know… with the king and they won't pick you. You're too… too you." He gestured at Shin. "I don' know who to follow. My captain has left. Everyone's abandoning us. Is tha why Rosa left? Have we lost her trust?"

His eyes misted, the man rubbing them only to lose balance and bang his elbow on the table. He righted his chair, slumping on the table as he hiccuped.

"Alright, I think you've had enough," said Shin, getting up to help Ammar. "Don't fall asleep. I'd don't want to drag your dead weight back to the castle."

Shin grabbed Ammar by the middle, managing the haul the man to his feet. He swayed, but with support from Shin managed to make it out of the tavern. They joined the other people on the streets as they pressed for the palace.

"Do yah think he'll com' back?" grumbled Ammar. "The Captain?"

"No idea," said Shin.

Ammar hung his head. "You're useless. Everyone's useless. Why are we even fighting an' more?"

Shin grimaced, letting the man ramble as they returned to the palace steps.

There's still plenty to hope for, thought Shin. He was optimistic that everything would work out in the end. They had lost much, yes, but that just meant they had to hold on to the things they still had. That, and make new connections.

Shin jostled Ammar, making sure the man was still helping them walk.

"Hey, we should do this again sometime," said Shin.

Ammar grumbled something about 'useless Hizuri.'

Shin grinned, humming as he dragged the sorry lightweight up the castle steps. It was so nice to hear those words said to his face again.

"They'll just have to wait. Tell Duke Momose to get his ass off his hands and use the resources we've already sent."

Not the most diplomatic way it could have been said, but Kuu didn't want to waste his time reprimanding Taric. The man was one of the few that actively fought against the idea of a no confidence vote. He'd stayed near Kuu's side during the whole gathering, vehemently defending Kuu and tradition.

The representative didn't like the answer any better, probably a lot less considering he was representing his Duke's providence. His lips thinned in annoyance, the grip on his drink tightening.

"As I already stated," said the rep. "The caravan was destroyed on its way to the city. We've lost many researchers to the rot and it's spreading farther out each day. If you don't stop it now, it could reach the rest of the—"

"We are aware of the dangers a disease may bring," said Taric. "But we don't have the resources to send anything right now."

The rep clamped his mouth shut, anger burning in his eyes.

"Taric, please," said Kuu, recognizing the need to step in. He addressed the rep. "Tell Duke Momose that the team we put together is almost ready to be sent. He'll have help as soon as we can supply it."

"When will that be?" said the rep.

"When they're ready," replied Kuu smoothly. He found vague answers were the better option in these cases. With this problem, it had been a mixture of needing the medical teams here to help with the aftermath of the crisis and finding those still willing to enter the disease-ridden area. Not many were keen to risk their lives.

The rep didn't answer, which wasn't a good sign. It had become a lot harder to determine when people were being respectful or biting back comments because they had started to mistrust him. Nothing was clear these days.

Kuu continued through the gathering, few people coming to talk to him directly. They were all whispering, their glances constant and judging. It was hard not to notice the distinct line that stretched down the center. Those that supported Kuu on one side, and those that didn't on the other. A few mingled in the center of the line, wavering back and forth in both space and in loyalty.

He'd hoped to make good use of this time, convincing the others that dethroning him was the wrong choice in this situation. But most people weren't interested in talking to him directly. So, Kuu had to rely on Kouki, Taric, and anyone else that backed him to represent his words.

It didn't look like he had many. The room was horribly unbalanced.

Kuu's gaze swept to where Sulmod stood, the main source of this contention. He'd been actively speaking out against Kuu, convincing many that he was unfit to rule. Lory had suggested legal action against his treasonous words, but Kuu thought that would just make things worse. Sulmod spoke with an authority and sureness that made others think that he was right; that what he said was fact and any other suggestions were foolish to consider. The absence of one arm stood as evidence of his tenacity. He'd twist the reprimand to his advantage as he had his own deformity.

"I'm sure he thinks to place himself on the throne," said Taric, his voice gruff and mocking. He'd noticed Kuu's observance of Sulmod and chosen another target of his grumblings. "He's always been hungry for power. No respect for tradition in the slightest."

"He respects strength," said Kuu. "As a retired general, it is easy to understand why. He's seen my failures and decided they are unforgivable."

"But what of your triumphs?" said Taric. "Two Accursed dead, several others chased away? The kingdom was hardly damaged by the attack. The palace was the main source of conflict and it was also where we were strong enough to fight back. Rosa chose you, and this no confidence vote business mocks her memory. If he had any respect for her, he would beg for your forgiveness for even bringing up that matter."

"I wish more people saw it that way."

Kuu spotted Lory, walking swiftly toward them. He quickly excused himself from Taric, meeting his friend halfway. Lory's expression told Kuu this was not a conversation for others to casually hear.

They stepped to the side of the room and out of earshot. The gathering continued with the small clicks of glass and murmur of voices.

"What is it?" said Kuu.

"Just more reports," said Lory, glancing around. "I see this is going about as well as we had planned."

"Just about." Which was not at all. "I think your son has managed to convince Hoshi that I'm not an Accursed, which is a start. But other than that, I'm afraid this is just making matters worse."

The carefully blank expression of Lory's face was not a good sign. It meant he had more bad news. Kuu held out a hand, determined to hear it. Lory deposited several sheets of parchment in his hand. The king idly perused them, taking note of the main important points. He'd read over these more closely later.

"Food production is still down," he mumbled. Unless they did something, there would be a shortage. The current crops weren't looking too great either. "Another mass of monsters accumulating in the North. That rot in the east…" his mind worked, combining the facts. "These are all parts of a coordinated multilayered attack on the capital."

"My thoughts exactly," said Lory. "We've discussed the possibility, but I think it's now solidified. They must be doing something to our crops and those new groups of monsters are sweeping through the nearby villages, killing everyone. We'll need to stop them."

Which meant sending out more troops to escort refuges here and stop the slaughtering. Which would put more strain on their resources. The enemy had changed tactics. Rather than destroy them from the inside, they planned on military strategies such as sabotage and raids. His brother's death had definitely changed the chain of command in the Accursed.

"This would be so much easier if we knew where the heck these Accursed even were," said Kuu. He flipped to the last sheet of paper and his heart stopped. Lory watched Kuu's reaction, regret obvious.

"There are more of these?" said Kuu, the vile words on the parchment burning his eyes. His mouth felt dry from shock.

"I think they seek to destroy us inside and out, my king," said Lory, nodding to the missive. "Starting with you."

Kuu folded the paper, his hands shaking as he placed it back inside the pile of documents.

"Gather the generals," said Kuu. "We need to address the rouge group of monsters as quickly as possible. Do we know which type of monster this group consists-"

A voice called to them, stopping Kuu before he could finish. Despite their obviously private conversation, Sulmod had no problem calling out to Kuu. Lory's face darkened as the man approached, gaining the attention of much of the room. Their eyes turned to watch the exchange as anticipation rose like a tangible object.

"Sulmod," said Kuu, guarded. "Is there something I can help you with?"

"Your time to help us has long passed, my king," said Sulmod. The man spoke with a haughty air of self-importance that was exaggerated by a circlet on his head. His posture gave it the impression of a crown. "You tried and failed. I'd rather seek help elsewhere."

"Watch yourself," said Lory sharply. "You will be respectful to your king."

"Of course," said Sulmod, nodding as if this were obvious. "But I'm not sure if he will carry that title for much longer."

Lory was done. The poor man had endured more overtime working to keep this kingdom together and he certainly didn't need people insulting his friend and king. Lory stepped up before Sulmod, bearing down with anger and power as he glared.

"Your treasonous murmurings have gone too far," said Lory. "Speak any longer and I will see that you stand in court."

Their confrontation, though spoken at normal volume had the attention of the whole room at this point. Sulmod didn't look concerned by the public reprimand. He seemed emboldened by it. Invigorated at being the center of such a politically tense conflict. His hand descended into his robes to pull out a scroll.

"I'd love nothing more than to see you in court," said Sulmod. He brandished the parchment. "It's what I came to speak to you about."

Lory yanked the paper from Sulmod's hands, reading it over quickly. His eyebrows shot up, glancing at Kuu with apprehension.

Not a good sign.

Kuu stepped up, reading over Lory's shoulder. His stomach fell.

It was an official notice of a no confidence vote. Below the legal jargon were rows of signatures sanctioning the ruling.

Kuu stared, wondering why he felt nothing but emptiness. He should have been surprised, furious, or something other than nothing at seeing so many of his faithful men turn on him. But he didn't. Sulmod's eyes were upon him, watching for Kuu's reaction.

"I see you've managed to take advantage of everyone's worries, Councilor," said Kuu calmly.

"I've sought to organize them," said Sulmod. "And find the crux of the problem. You've shown that your decisions can not be trusted."

"That is your opinion, not fact."

"It is the opinion of many, as this notice shows you."

"The only thing it shows me is that people are scared, and they want answers."

"And you think you're a reliable source for those answers? I believe recent history has shown us that you are not."

Sulmod took the notice back, carefully rolling it up with his one hand. He didn't struggle with the task, the movements practiced and precise as he placed the document inside his robes.

"The magistrates will set a date for the hearing, giving you plenty of time to assemble a defense," said Sulmod. "Not that it will matter. With the amount of evidence that stands against you, I'd be surprised if they don't convict you for neglect and crimes against your country."

Kuu didn't retort, words too heavy in his mouth to speak. Lory had the sense to keep his head as well, allowing Sulmod to retreat without a scene. There had been too many as it were.

Conversation in the room resumed, the hum lower and louder as the people discussed this new piece of palace gossip. He could see the news hopping between groups, stirring more excitement, more fear, more contention. It wasn't just for him things were getting worse. This was causing a split within Ashuron itself.

Lory muttered a string of curses, a sure sign of his frustration. Lory was not one for cursing.

"That bastard," said Lory. "The second Rosa disappears some asshole decides to take advantage of it. We should have demoted him after the Roads scandal."

"I'm not sure he seeks to gain power," said Kuu. "I think he seriously believes this is the best thing for the country."

Lory snorted. "Sounds like your brother. Sulmod's method causes just as much contention as Masato's did. If I wasn't so sure of his death, I'd have thought the Sulmod inherited his Relic."

"We can't accuse everyone of being an Accursed just because they oppose me," said Kuu. It had become too common. Accusations thrown left and right, people panicking as they began to suspect others of being Accursed. It was just getting worse.

"Any news on how to resurrect Rosa?" said Kuu. That was the one thing that could stop this all. She could unite them and end the internal conflict.

Lory's negative answer ended that possibility. "Nothing helpful," he said. "As a phoenix she must rise from the ashes, but we couldn't find them. We've scoured the area where she died but there was so much rubble we can't be sure if they've been lost in the mess. We're unsure if they'll appear any different from normal dust."

"Let's just hope the Accursed didn't take them before they fled," said Kuu. He imagined one of them carrying the remains of their demigoddess, forever sealing her away because Kuu couldn't properly protect her vessel.

Suddenly Kuu wanted to be alone.

"Sorry, I'm going to retire for the night," said Kuu.

He gave a brief, almost rude goodbye to Lory before almost fleeing the room. He knew it was the wrong move, possibly showing weakness or guilt in the eye that watched him leave. And they'd be right. He felt weak. Helpless to stop all the pain and death.

The air grew heavy and Kuu suddenly stopped, his feet leaden. He closed his eyes as his breathing increased, trying to gain control of his suddenly rampaging emotions.

So many people had died that day. Men had turned in to monsters, his brother betrayed them and Hirotaka had destroyed their defenses. Death had coated these halls without any regard for station or wealth. Kuu's eyes opened and he didn't see the corridor as it was. He saw bodies and blood, torn canvases and broken rock. He saw his people dying needlessly and the fear in their eyes as they begged for their king to save them. He saw Rosa's link to him disappearing. He saw his son as darkness overtook him. He saw his wife, broken and unconscious as others tended to her mutilated legs.

Hands shaking, Kuu pulled out the paper Lory had given him earlier, staring at the words.

King Kuu Hizuri knew his brother was Accursed and did nothing.

He knew his son was Accursed and did nothing.

Our crops suffer, the people die, and still he does nothing.

Down with the tyrant Kuu Hizuri, who serves the darkness and repels the light.

The longer he stared, the more Kuu could see what the others saw. What Sulmod saw. He saw how he had failed them so spectacularly. How he'd failed to act in the way they needed.

"I will find you, Rosa," swore Kuu, sending a silent prayer to the gods. "I will find your ashes and bring you back." No matter what it cost, Kuu would find a way resurrect their demigoddess. He owed Ashuron that much at least.

"You've been having nightmares since you left the palace?"

Kyoko nodded, feeling insulted. The way Hiroaki spoke, it was as if she was willingly withholding information that could help her. She rubbed her arm, careful not to touch the marks. They hadn't spread but they hadn't fully receded either. Nothing was helping.

"I just thought they were from the trauma," said Kyoko in defense. "And I don't have them every night."

Hiroaki made a note in his ledger. "What do these nightmares include?"

"Fear and feeling trapped." Kyoko hugged herself, unable to help the shiver as she remembered the cold isolation. "Sometimes I'm running as something chases me. I'm often caught, either in sand, wind, or wood as it surrounds and suffocates me. I still feel it when I wake up."

She'd often cry out for Cain. If he was there, his presence would dissipate the feelings almost instantly. Come to think of it, she had them less when she was with him. It had been several nights since they'd slept in the same room and the nightmares had gotten a lot worse.

"It may be another symptom of your curse," said Hiroaki, rubbing the pen against his temple. "It may also help us understand the root cause of it."

"I doubt it's a symptom of the curse," said Kyoko. If it was, why would it get better when she was closer to Cain? Though, magic had strange effects on those that were exposed to it… she couldn't remember who had said that to her.

"What makes you say that?" said Hiroaki.

"…Just a feeling."

Hiroaki frowned but didn't press. He made one last note before closing the ledger. The man was more meticulous with his notes than most physicians, a characteristic Kyoko respected. It made life so much easier when the previous physician provided accurate notes. She couldn't count the number of times good record keeping would have saved hours of tests and pain for the patient.

"That should be all for today," said Hiroaki. "I'll get back to you if the tests show anything." He suddenly cleared his throat. "Also, I uh, have been getting some reports from the other physicians. Something about you helping them?"

"Oh!" Kyoko couldn't help the swell in joy as she hastened to explain. "Sorry, but I just saw one of the physicians using the autoclave incorrectly. I showed him how it worked and a few other things and then…" She wilted as it dawned on her she probably shouldn't have done that. Or continue to bustle around the clinic helping and giving tips to those that asked her questions until she'd nearly passed out from exhaustion. "Okay, maybe I got a little too enthusiastic."

Hiroaki gave her a smile, showing he wasn't mad. "I'd just be careful Kyoko. Some people aren't happy you're taking up my time and others don't trust you. While I believe your desire to help is genuine, others think you have another agenda." Kyoko kept her face carefully neutral. "Just be more aware, okay? And you can avoid trouble."

A memory came to her, and she snorted. Hiroaki raised an eyebrow.

"Sorry," she hurried. "I just remembered someone saying something similar to me. 'It's not a virtue to be unaware, Kyoko. It can hurt those around you.'" Queen Julie had been reprimanding her for almost the exact same thing. Not being aware when she had pushed herself too far.

Come to think of it, she was probably also talking about Kyoko being unaware of Kuon's feelings for her. Cain had told her almost everyone but her had known. Gosh, she was so unaware. That's probably why she got into so much trouble all the time.

"Um, well," said Hiroaki, uncomfortable. "That's great. I, um, hope you can be more aware."

"You and me both," she grumbled. It made her wonder what other obvious things she was missing.

She watched Hiroaki as he fumbled to get the rest of his things in order. What was it he had said? That some people weren't happy she was taking up his time? Had he put his neck out for her?

And suddenly she felt very stupid.

"I'm so sorry!" she wailed, throwing herself to the ground. Hiroaki jumped, spilling something as she prostrated herself. "You've done so much for me and all I've done is caused you trouble. Your kindness has been incredible, and I can't believe how much I've asked of you without properly giving you anything in return."

Hiroaki floundered. "Please get up Kyoko. Don't stay on the ground, it can't be that clean. You could hurt yourself."

His words just made her more aware of the trouble she was causing him, and the trouble she wanted to cause him. Her wails increased.

"What in heavens is this noise?"

Iizuka had walked in. Her chin rose when she saw Kyoko and Hiroaki on the ground.

"Mage Ogata," she snapped at him. "You are needed in room seven. Please, stop this debacle and do your duty."

Hiroaki's wince did not go unnoticed by Kyoko. She allowed him to help her up, only because she was now staring intently at his face. It was obvious he disliked the way Iizuka spoke to him but was too timid to do anything about it.

"I'm sorry," Kyoko mumbled again. "I'll try to be better. Or maybe I can do more to help you out!"

"Um, didn't we just—never mind." Hiroaki gave a weak smile. "Don't worry too much Kyoko. I don't see helping you as a waste of time. Your curse is fascinating! I've enjoyed studying it."

Kyoko blinked, another memory coming to her as she chuckled. She just remembered who'd told her that little fact about magic causing strange effects.

"You know, with how organized you were I thought you were nothing like your father," she said. "But I guess you both do share a fascination with magic."

Hiroaki stopped. He gazed at her as if seeing her for the first time, eyes wide.

"You knew my father?" he said.

"I met him once," said Kyoko, thinking back to that messy room and his steel blue eyes. He'd freaked her out with his cryptic words at the time. He probably hadn't been an Accursed at that time, seeing as he'd urged her not to let Kuon fall to the curse. unfortunately, there was that moment he had attacked her after he had become an Accursed.

Kyoko let out a shaky laugh. Okay, maybe she shouldn't bring that up.

Hiroaki kept staring.

The impatient tapping of a toe on the floor snapped them from their moment. Iizuka had her arms folded, sneering as if this pause was a terrible inconvenience to her.

"You're needed now," she emphasized with another tap of her foot. "Not later. Stop dill dallying with the time-waster and move."

Hiroaki winced under her scorn.

"Sorry, I'll speak to you later," he said, walking from the room. He seemed wary of her now. "Make sure to rest and tell me if you have any more nightmares."

"I will," promised Kyoko.

He left, leaving Iizuka in the room with her. Why had she stayed behind anyway? Her glare said how much she liked Kyoko, which was not at all.

"You have a guest," she finally grumbled.

"Cain is here?" said Kyoko, immediately perking up. It was shot down as Iizuka shook her head.

"No, it's a soldier," she said. "I think he knows you. He's in the waiting room."

"A soldier?" Then it hit her. "Oh! Thank you!"

It was with difficulty that Kyoko didn't run down that hall. At this point she knew them well, weaving through the masses and into her bedroom. She shared it with several other occupants with long-standing non-transmissible conditions. It reminded her of the room she'd shared with the concubines, in a bizarre way. It was kind of nice to always have people nearby.

Upon entering the room, she confirmed her suspicions when she saw who stood by her bed. He turned as she entered and Kyoko couldn't help giving him an enthusiastic hug.

"Careful, aren't you supposed to be sick?" said Hikaru as he stumbled to prevent himself from toppling over.

Kyoko giggled, giving Hikaru one last squeeze before stepping back. "You're back! I heard you went to help the borders."

"Ignoring the reprimand, I see," he said. Then his smile softened. "It's great to see you're feeling better. I was worried."

"Yup! I'm much better," said Kyoko. It was a partial lie. She was feeling better, but she was still not feeling well. She really wanted to take a nap right now. "Hiroaki has done a great job. It's been so cool seeing how he uses all his medicine. Oh, I wish I could be on his research team. I'd learn so much!"

Hikaru shook his head at her, the move endearing. "You haven't changed. Still so enthusiastic about medicine."

"Of course! It's my livelihood." Or at least. It had been. "How was the trip? You didn't get hurt or anything?"

"I've had a physician look to my wounds," he said. "I'm optimistic about restoring the border. Um, but listen, I actually don't have a lot of time and I have to ask you about something."

That's when Kyoko noticed he didn't look quite right. His smile was a tad too stretched, eyes tight and hands constantly shifting. What was wrong?

"Can we speak privately?" he said, nodding to the people in the room.

"Of course." She knew just the place. His expression told her they needed absolute privacy for the conversation.

Kyoko led him out into the hall, going back to the room she had been staying in. While most doors were either locked or guarded depending on what they contained, Kyoko knew of a few places she could enter without people kicking up a fuss. The place she went for exams with Hiroaki was one of those places.

She pushed the door open, glad that no one was using it yet. She ushered Hikaru inside and closed the door behind him.

"What's wrong?" she said, immediately. "Did something happen at the outpost?"

"No, nothing happened there," he said quickly. "Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you, but I was just… I am a little uncertain even after I decided. But I guess I still wanted a solid answer."

Kyoko was lost. What was Hikaru blabbering about?

In the seconds it took for Hikaru to pull his thoughts together Kyoko tried to think of why he seemed so nervous. So frightened.

Finally, his eye hardened, and in an uncharacteristically serious voice, he addressed her.

"Lady Kyoko," he said. "Is Cain Prince Kuon?"

Thanks for reading you all!

And thank you to those that took the time to review! You are my wonderful people. Like. Super wonderful. That is you.

Next update will be in two weeks.

-Blushweaver

Egad! Although we kind knew he knew already….