Three weeks later...
Lady Itō sat in a regal, high-backed chair, A cold, disapproving expression on her face. Tokinada sat across from her, His usual playful facade replaced with a nervous, Formal demeanor.
Ayame sat beside him, Her heart beating a mile a minute. She attempted to keep her own expression calm and composed, But it was clear she was intimidated by the woman.
"Tokinada... You've brought Lady Ayame," Lady Itō's voice was cold, flat, and emotionless.
"Yes, I have, Lady Itō," Tokinada answered, his voice tinged with an edge of nervousness. He shifted in his seat, his fingers tapping lightly on the arm of the chair. He knew better than to be anything but formal and respectful in front of the acting head of his house, especially one as powerful and ruthless as Lady Itō. His mother and shrew on the verge of becoming a widow.
Looking across at Ayame, he noticed how composed she seemed outwardly, but her wide eyes betrayed her true emotion. It was like she was in the presence of a dangerous predatory serpent. Her intuition and psychological knowledge mapping out Itō in secret detail.
Lady Itō's eyes flicked from Tokinada to Ayame, her gaze penetrating and calculating. She sized the young lady up, taking in her diminutive frame and delicate, doll-like features. She gave an impression of fragility, yet there was a flicker of something more in the depths of her violet eyes - a spark of intellect and determination that Itō noted.
Lady Itō leaned back in her chair, her gaze still fixed on Ayame. She had sent Tokinada's own brother, Tsuchimikado, to represent their family. The fact that Tokinada was here now with Ayame, rather than Tsuchimikado, and the fact that he had rarely returned to Tsunayashiro palace in the last three weeks spoke volumes.
Itō's eyes narrowed ever so slightly as she began to piece together the situation. The fact that Tokinada had not sought her permission to pursue Ayame, coupled with the fact that they were alone together, was a clear sign that he knew he was in violation of her edicts.
"Tokinada," Itō spoke slowly, her voice soft yet icy. "I sent Tsuchimikado to represent the family yesterday. To win the favor of the Utsunomiya's most desirable lady. Yet here you are instead, with Lady Ayame."
Tokinada calmed himself, maintaining a complying mask of composure as he answered. "Yes, Lady Itō. I... I decided to pursue her myself."
"You decided?" Itō's voice grew colder, her expression hardening. "Without seeking my permission or blessing, you decided to go against my wishes. You went behind my back and courted the Utsunomiya's prize without my knowledge or approval."
"I... I understand your anger." Tokinada's voice wavered slightly as he spoke. "But, I... I couldn't help myself. Lady Ayame is... she fascinates me unlike any woman I have ever met. I had to court her."
Lady Itō's eyes flashed, her expression hardening further at his words. "You had a wife, Tokinada, one I picked for you myself. A woman I had high hopes for, a woman I thought could help you change your... distasteful nature. Yet, you could not even keep yourself contained long enough to preserve THAT marriage."
Her voice was sharp and biting, cutting through the air like a knife. "How can I trust that you will not do the same to Lady Ayame? How do I know you will not tire of her, like you did your late wife, and treat her as nothing more than a discarded trophy?"
Tokinada sighed, He knew he had no argument against her words, and the truth of them stung like a lash. He had grown bored of Kakyō - her indifference. It had been part of his plan, to manipulate and destroy her, to test the limits of his own cruelty.
"I... I understand your concern, Lady Itō." Tokinada's voice was low, chastised. "But... but Lady Ayame is different. I swear it. She is not like my former wife. She... she fascinates me on levels I cannot even explain. I swear I would never hurt her or discard her like I did Kakyō."
Itō scrutinized him for a long moment, her gaze searching, her expression betraying nothing. Finally, she spoke. "You say this with such certainty, Tokinada. Yet, you forget, I know you. I know your true nature. I have raised you and I have seen your dark side come out on more than one occasion. What makes you think I should believe your words now, when you have proven to be untrustworthy before?"
Tokinada was at a loss for words. Itō's cold gaze and biting words cut through him like a knife. She knew him better than anyone, knew his true nature, his dark desires and sadistic tendencies. Ayame sat there silently, watching and listening, her eyes flickering from Itō to Tokinada and back again.
Lady Itō leaned forward in her chair, her voice dropping even lower. "You say you are fascinated by her? What is it about her that captures your interest, Tokinada? Is she like your former wife, a pawn for you to play with and discard as you please? Or is there something more sinister to it, something darker that drew you to her?"
Tokinada winced again at her words. Itō was too cunning. She was poking at the very heart of his fascination with Ayame. It was true that Ayame's doll-like appearance and quiet, reserved nature had caught his attention. But there was more to it than that - a deep, twisted darkness that drew him to her, a desire to test her limits, to see how far he could push her before she shattered like fine china.
Tokinada knew he was worthless and nothing, Ayame was pure, Beautiful, Divine and he wanted nothing more to desecrate her. Bring her down to his level.
But he knew he couldn't say that, not to Itō. So he chose his words carefully, trying to maintain a facade of innocence. "No, Lady Itō," he said, his voice steady. "She's not like Kakyō. To be frank, She's a lot more interesting than that deluded wench."
Itō regarded him skeptically, her gaze intense. "Is that so? You expect me to believe you are enchanted by her intelligence and grace, when all I have seen of you thus far is your darker side? Your cruel and sadistic nature?"
She leaned back in her chair, her hands clasped in her lap. "Forgive me, Tokinada, but I find it hard to believe you are truly sincere in your affections for Lady Ayame. I think there is something more, something deeper and darker, drawing you to her."
Tokinada's heart raced in his chest. Itō was too perceptive, too intuitive. She could see right through him, and he knew it. But he had to maintain his facade, keep up the lie.
"Lady Itō," He said, his voice steady yet measured. "I understand your skepticism, but I assure you, My feelings for Lady Ayame are sincere."
Lady Itō's eyes narrowed, her expression remaining cold and calculating. "And this 'something', this thing within you that she speaks to - what is it, exactly? What is it that is so undeniable that you must pursue her, despite the risk of offending me and defying my will?"
Tokinada paused, his mind racing. Should he reveal the truth about Ayame, about her sacred bloodline and her sinless clan? Would that give him an advantage, or just further anger his mother? He glanced at Ayame, who gave him an almost imperceptible nod. She seemed to be saying she was ready.
Taking a deep breath, Tokinada spoke. "There's something else, Lady Itō. I must speak of Lady Ayame's bloodline."
Itō raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Go on," she said, gesturing for him to continue.
Tokinada hesitated, the weight of the truth hanging heavy on his tongue. "Lady Ayame is a member of the sinless clan, the Utsunomiya. She bears the sacred bloodline, a purity untouched by the stains of this world."
There was a moment of silence, as Itō's eyes widened slightly at the revelation. Tokinada could see the gears turning in her head, weighing the implications of Ayame's heritage.
"The Utsunomiya... the sinless clan," Itō repeated, her voice a whisper. "That would explain why you were so drawn to her. You crave the purity she embodies, the very thing you know you can never have yourself."
Tokinada bowed his head, acknowledging the truth in Itō's words. It was true. Ayame's purity, her innocence, it was like a beacon, drawing him in like a moth to a flame. It was the very thing he sought to destroy, to defile, to prove his own twisted point.
Tokinada nodded, emboldened by his mother's reaction. "Yes, Lady Itō. This is why I am drawn to her. She is a pure, sinless being, untouched by the world's impurities. And I... I want to touch that purity. To taste it. To claim it for my own."
Itō's eyes narrowed, her gaze hardening. "And what makes you think that you, of all people, are worthy to possess such purity? You, who have been stained by your own cruelties and vices? Who have shown nothing but callousness and indifference to the world around you? What makes you think you are fit to claim something so untouched and pure?"
Tokinada couldn't help the words that spilled forth, the truth of them a revelation even to him.
"Because... because I am nothing. Because being close to her, being enveloped in her purity and grace... it's like a taste of heaven. And I, the lowly sinner, would do anything to feel that sensation again and again."
Itō's expression darkened further, her eyes narrowing. "A compulsion, you say?" she said, her voice dripping with disapproval. "Is that what you call your perverse desire to defile something so pure and untouched? Do you not hear yourself, Tokinada? You speak of claiming Lady Ayame, of possessing her, like a starving beast desiring to devour its prey."
Itō was silent for a long moment, considering his words. She could see the sincerety in his eyes, the yearning and desperation in his voice. She knew her son well enough to know when he was being genuine, and this was one of those moments.
"You want this. You want her. Desperately. So desperately, in fact, that you have come to me, defying my express wishes, to plead your case," Itō said, her voice softening slightly. "Why? Why do you want her so badly, Tokinada? Is it merely a physical attraction, or is there more to it than that?"
Tokinada hesitated, his face flushing at the mention of the night before. "Mother, I... I must admit, there is more to our relationship than just attraction. We have been intimate. Ayame understands my desires and has not rejected me."
Itō's eyes widened in surprise, her expression changing. "Intimate? You and Lady Ayame?" she repeated, her voice low and measured. "I see. You have already crossed that line, then. And yet, you speak only of your own feelings, your own desires. Have you considered hers? Her feelings, her thoughts, her desires?"
Ayame, who had been sitting quietly throughout the conversation, finally spoke up.
"My... my feelings, Lady Itō?"
Her voice was soft and timid, yet firm. She looked up at Itō with a calm, neutral expression. "My feelings towards Tokinada are... complicated. I cannot deny that I find him intriguing and that his presence stirs something within me. But it is not merely physical," she admitted. "There is more to it, something I struggle to understand myself."
Itō regarded Ayame for a long moment, sizing her up. She could tell that the young lady was speaking truthfully, that there was more depth to her words than simple surface-level attraction.
"And what do you make of my son's behavior and desires, Lady Ayame?" Itō asked. "His desire to claim you, to possess you as he has admitted?"
Ayame took a deep breath, her mind racing. She had known this question would come, yet she was not prepared for it all the same. She could feel Tokinada's gaze on her, intense and expectant.
"Your son's behavior is... intense," she said, choosing her words carefully. "And his desires... they are unlike anything I have ever experienced before. But I can say that I... I do not find them wholly unwelcome."
Itō raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised by Ayame's words. "You do not find them unwelcome, you say? Despite the fact that they speak of possession and claiming, of defiling your purity? You are not repulsed by such talk, even when uttered by the likes of Tokinada?"
Ayame took a moment to gather her thoughts, then spoke.
"Chastity... I do not believe it to be a defining factor of purity, Lady Itō," she said, her voice steady and calm. "True purity is not of flesh and body, but of spirit and mind. And while I am not chaste... I do not believe my purity is in question. One may throw red paint on a white silk cloth but that doesn't change the nature of the cloth but only it's appearance and texture. The purity of Utsunomiya and it's branch families is derived from the events that lead to the creation of the current universe. The purity is kharmic in the actions of the immaculate Taiyohime who did not contribute to the mutilation of our great progenitor, instead was thrown from the clouded heavens by the Tsunayashiro founder after granting her will to the universe."
Itō's expression did not change, but her eyes flickered with surprise. She had not expected such a philosophical answer from the young lady. It was clear that Ayame possessed a depth of understanding and wisdom beyond her years.
"I... see," Itō said, her voice betraying a hint of respect. "You have a unique perspective on purity, Lady Ayame. One that does not conform to the traditional definitions. It is impressive, to say the least."
Ayame could hear the note of approval in Itō's tone, and it gave her a sense of comfort. She had feared that the older woman would dismiss her words as naïve or naive, but instead, it seemed to have earned her respect.
"Thank you, Lady Itō," Ayame said, bowing her head slightly. "I have given it much thought over the years. The concept of purity is complex and multifaceted. It is not just limited to physical virginity or one's ever-changing state of consciousness."
Itō's expression darkened slightly as she considered her next words.
"And what of Tokinada's darker nature, Lady Ayame? His tendency to seek despair, to relish in the misfortune of others? What would you do if he were to bring such despair upon you?"
Ayame met Itō's gaze unflinchingly, her tone even and calm.
"Despair is something fleeting, Lady Itō. Just like any other emotion. It comes and goes, just like anger, joy, sadness and everything in between. It is not a constant; it is a temporary state of mind."
"Moreover," Ayame continued, her voice firm. "Tokinada's constant enjoyment of despair says more about his own dark nature than the victims themselves. Once one has experienced despair, once they have felt its full force, it becomes easier to move past it. As I said, despair is a temporary state. It is not permanent, and it does not define us. We are bigger than our emotions, greater than our worst experiences."
Itō nodded, clearly impressed by Ayame's reasoning. "You speak wise words, Lady Ayame," she said, her eyes narrowing slightly. "It is... rare to come across someone with such a nuanced understanding of human nature, especially in one so young."
Tokinada was silent, a mixture of awe and frustration on his face. He had not expected Ayame to have such deep insights into their conversation. It made him want her even more.
Tokinada couldn't help but feel a mix of fascination and frustration as he listened to Ayame speak. He had expected her to be a meek and submissive damsel, easily manipulated and controlled. Instead, she was showing a wisdom and strength that was both attractive and infuriating.
He clenched his fists, his mind racing with a multitude of emotions. She was not what he had expected, not at all. And yet, he wanted her all the more for it.
Itō observed her son's reaction, a small smile on her lips. She could sense the turmoil within him, the conflict between his desire and his frustration.
"Quite intriguing, isn't she?" Itō said, her voice soft and almost teasing. "Unlike any young lady you've ever encountered, I presume? Not even Kakyō had this amount of human understanding."
Tokinada shot a glare at his mother, his eyes dark with annoyance. But he couldn't deny the truth in her words. Ayame was unlike anyone he had ever encountered before. Her wisdom and insight were both intoxicating and infuriating.
"Shut up, Mother," he snapped, his tone harsh. "Don't compare her to Kakyō. She's not like her."
Tokinada scowled, his expression dark.
"Kakyō was a naive fool," he said, his voice dripping with disdain. "Blinded by her delusional sense of justice, her desire to do the 'right' thing. She never understood the real world, the truth behind the surface-level morality of our society. She was weak, easily manipulated. Not like Ayame."
Itō nodded, her eyes flickering with understanding. "Yes, Kakyō was never cut out for the harsh realities of our world. She was too idealistic, too naive. She could not see the bigger picture."
She turned her gaze back to Ayame, studying her for a long moment. "But I sense that you are different, Lady Ayame. You have seen the dark underbelly of our world, the true nature of our society. And yet, you remain unfazed."
Ayame took a moment to gather her thoughts, her expression thoughtful.
"Our society is flawed, for sure," she said, her voice steady. "And many of us carry demons within us. But we must learn to live with them. They are part of us, part of our lives. We cannot erase them, nor can we simply ignore them. We can only learn to manage and coexist with them."
Itō nodded again, a grudging respect on her face. "You have a mature outlook for someone so young, Lady Ayame," she said. "You understand the complexities of our world, the imperfections that define our existence. It is not an easy lesson to learn, yet you seem to have embraced it."
Tokinada was quiet, his eyes fixed on Ayame. He could see the wisdom in her words, the acceptance of the darker aspects of their world. He had always believed that ignorance was bliss, that one should not burden themselves with knowledge of the cruel nature of their reality. But here was Ayame, accepting and dealing with it on her own. It made him both admire her and loathe her for it. She was stronger than he had thought.
Itō noticed the look on her son's face, the mixture of admiration and resentment in his eyes. She smirked slightly, enjoying the game.
"You seem quite taken with her, my son," she said, her voice laced with amusement. "She is not what you expected, is she?"
Tokinada shot his mother an annoyed glare, but he did not deny her words. "She is... different," he said, his tone curt. "But she is mine, Lady Itō. She belongs to me."
Itō's smile widened, a hint of mockery in her eyes. "Oh, does she now?" she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "And has she agreed to that? Or are you simply claiming her as your prize, without a thought to her own feelings?"
Ayame took a moment to gather her thoughts, her gaze shifting to Tokinada.
"And I, too, find myself intrigued by Tokinada," she admitted, her voice quiet but firm. "He is a complicated man, full of contradictions. One moment he is charming and suave, the next he is cold and cruel. It is both fascinating and perplexing. He is a man with layers I intend to peel back."
Tokinada's eyes widened in surprise, his heart skipping a beat. He had not expected Ayame to be so upfront about her feelings towards him, especially not in front of his mother. It caught him off guard, and he couldn't help but feel a strange sense of pleasure at her words.
Itō also looked taken aback by Ayame's admission, but her expression quickly changed to one of amusement. "Oh, is that so?" she said, a smirk on her lips. "You find my son intriguing, do you? And what exactly do you hope to accomplish by peeling back his layers?"
Ayame returned Itō's gaze with a level one of her own. "I suppose I want to understand him better," she replied. "To see past the facade he presents to the world and gain insight on what truly makes him tick. Understanding his complexities may help me in predicting his behavior, and in turn, may help me manage him."
Itō chuckled, clearly enjoying the interaction. "And what makes you think you will be able to manage my son, Lady Ayame?" she asked, a hint of challenge in her voice. "He is a man who has always done as he pleases, regardless of others' opinions or expectations."
Ayame suppressed a smile, the corner of her mouth curving slightly. "I suppose the apple does not fall far from the tree," she said, her voice cool and composed. "I can see where Tokinada gets his stubbornness and lack of regard for others from."
Itō raised an eyebrow, a mix of surprise and humor in her expression. She was not used to someone speaking so bluntly to her face.
"You are quite perceptive, Lady Ayame," she said, a hint of respect in her voice. "And quite bold. Not many would dare to speak to me in such a way."
Ayame tilted her head slightly, her gaze fixed on Itō. "With all due respect, Lady Itō," she began, her voice soft but firm. "You have a reputation as a woman who sees her children as pawns, to be played and discarded as necessary for the benefit of the family."
Itō said nothing for a moment, her expression giving nothing away. She simply held Ayame's gaze, her eyes cool and unreadable. But there was a slight shift in her stance, as if acknowledging the accuracy of Ayame's words.
"You're observant," Itō said finally, her voice nonchalant. "And accurate. Yes, I do see my children as assets, to be used and utilized for the benefit of the family name. But that's the nature of our world, is it not?"
Ayame nodded, her expression composed. "Yes, I understand that. In a society built upon the foundation of nobility, one's children are often seen as the means to an end. Tools to expand and solidify one's power and influence."
"Exactly," Itō said, a hint of satisfaction in her voice. "You see, Lady Ayame, you and I are not so different in our perspectives. We both understand the power of strategy and manipulation in this world."
Ayame took a moment to consider her words, her gaze distant. "While I respect your approach, Lady Itō, I prefer to take a more hands-off approach when it comes to managing and influencing others," she said, her voice level. "I believe in allowing individuals the free will to make their own choices and decisions, even if it means they may choose a path I do not agree with."
Itō chuckled softly, a hint of incredulity in her tone. "Ah, such a naive and idealistic perspective," she said, her eyes narrowed. "In this world, true power comes from manipulation and control. Allowing individuals free will only opens the door for them to act against your interests."
Ayame met Itō's gaze evenly, her expression unwavering. "Perhaps," she said, her voice measured. "But manipulation and control can only take you so far. True power, in my opinion, stems from respect and trust. If people respect and trust you, they are more likely to follow your lead willingly, without the need for deception or coercion."
Itō raised an eyebrow, genuinely interested in Ayame's perspective. "And how do you plan to achieve this respect and trust, Lady Ayame? By being nice and fair?" she asked, a hint of mockery in her tone.
Ayame shrugged slightly, a small, almost-imperceptible smile on her lips. "Sometimes, actions and words of goodwill can hold a deeper, more sinister intention that one doesn't realize until it is too late," she replied, her voice cryptic. "Even kindness and compassion can be used as tools, to manipulate and control others in ways they don't even realize."
Itō's eyes widened ever so slightly at Ayame's words, a flicker of surprise on her face. She had not expected such cynical insight from someone who seemed so virtuous on the outside.
"You are more cunning than you appear, Lady Ayame," Itō said after a moment, her tone tinged with respect. "I underestimated you, it seems."
Ayame tilted her head, a polite smile on her lips. "Appearances can be deceptive, Lady Itō," she said, her tone mild. "I may appear virtuous on the outside, but I am not afraid to use darker methods when necessary. The world is rarely black and white, after all. In a world which seeks to take advantage of me, I must use everything in my disposal to survive."
Itō nodded slightly, a hint of approval in her expression. She respected those who had the will to survive in this world. "You are a rare gem, Lady Ayame," she said, a wry smile on her lips. "A rose with thorns, a princess with claws."
Ayame inclined her head slightly in acknowledgment of the compliment, but her gaze remained steady and unwavering. "Thank you, Lady Itō," she said, her voice cool and controlled. "But I believe we all have thorns and claws, in this world. We simply choose how we use them."
Itō chuckled softly, clearly enjoying the back and forth with Ayame. "You are correct," she said, a hint of mischief in her eyes. "And I have a feeling your thorns and claws will be more difficult to handle than I anticipated."
Ayame allowed a small, almost mischievous smile to play on her lips. "Perhaps," she said, her tone coy. "But I assure you, Lady Itō, I know how to use them wisely and judiciously. I am not a foolish princess."
Tokinada had been quietly observing the interaction between his mother and Ayame, a mixture of disbelief and admiration in his eyes. He had never heard anyone speak to his mother so bluntly and yet so elegantly before, and it both intrigued and annoyed him.
He couldn't help but feel a twinge of resentment, watching Ayame hold her own against his mother's attempts to manipulate and control her. She was supposed to be his, obeying and submissive, yet here she was, seemingly immune to his mother's influence.
But he also found himself drawn to her strength and poise, her ability to stand her ground without resorting to petulance or anger. He was begrudgingly impressed by her, despite himself.
As he continued to watch, a strange feeling began to stir within him - a mixture of fascination, respect, and, much to his annoyance, attraction.
This was not how things were supposed to go, he thought to himself. He was the one in control, the one in power. Yet, he could not deny the pull he felt towards Ayame, the way she so easily held her own against his mother.
Itō observed the interaction between Tokinada and Ayame, noting the strange mix of emotions on her son's face. She decided to intervene.
"It seems, My son," Itō said, her voice smooth with an air of resentful finality, "That Lady Ayame is a worthy match for you. I approve of this courtship... You now have my blessing."
Itō smiled slightly, her eyes darting towards Ayame. "You are excused Tokinada." she said, her voice pleasant. "I would like to have a word with Ayame... In private."
Tokinada's eyes flicked between his mother and Ayame, a flicker of anger and frustration in his gaze. He hadn't expected his mother to intervene in this way, to give her blessing so easily.
He knew his mother well enough to know that her praise often carried hidden meaning, an undercurrent of manipulation and control. His mother never did anything without an agenda.
Yet, despite his irritation, he couldn't help but feel a strange mixture of relief and unease. Relieved that his mother had not outright objected, but uneasy about what she might do in private with Ayame.
With a resigned sigh, Tokinada stood, his face betraying no hint of his emotions. He inclined his head slightly to his mother in acknowledgment, his eyes flickering once more to Ayame before leaving the room.
As soon as the door closed behind Tokinada, Itō's demeanor changed. Her smile faded, Replaced by a cold, calculating gaze as she turned her attention fully towards Ayame.
"Lady Ayame," she said, her voice dripping with a sweet, almost condescending tone. "I must commend you on your... performance earlier. You were quite impressive, standing up to me so confidently and calmly."
Ayame met Itō's gaze with a calm, composed expression. She was not fooled by the woman's sweetness, knowing that it was merely a mask for her true nature. "Thank you, Lady Itō," she said, her voice steady and polite. "I was merely expressing my opinions and beliefs."
Itō chuckled softly, a hint of mockery in her laughter. "Oh, I am well aware," she said, her voice still sickly sweet. She began to slowly circle Ayame, like a predator sizing up its prey. "You have quite the sharp tongue, Lady Ayame. And a strong, independent mind. It's quite... refreshing, to say the least."
Ayame's gaze followed Itō's movements, betraying no hint of unease or fear. She was far too experienced to be intimidated by such a display. "I appreciate your compliments," she said, her voice level and composed. "But I must wonder, what is the purpose of this conversation, Lady Itō?"
Itō smirked in response, her gaze flicking up and down Ayame's petite frame. "Oh, let's skip the formalities, shall we, Lady Ayame?" she said, her voice dripping with feigned sympathy. "You and my son have been... intimately acquainted, I am quite aware of that fact."
Ayame's demeanour remained cool and composed as Itō's words washed over her. She knew that Itō was looking for a reaction, wanting to stir up any feelings of defensiveness or shame in her. But she refused to give her the satisfaction. "Yes, we have been intimate," she said, her voice calm and steady. "I admit that."
Itō's smirk widened, her eyes narrowing in satisfaction. "He was truthful." she said, her voice filled with a mix of triumph and mockery. "You've always been such a dutiful, respectable lady, yet here you are, indulging in such pleasures with my son, Before marriage no less."
Ayame held her chin high, refusing to be shamed by Itō's words. "Our relationship is not something I am remotely ashamed of," she said, her voice firm. "And I have no regrets in giving him pleasure."
Itō chuckled softly, shaking her head in faux disappointment. "Oh, I see," she said, her voice filled with fake sympathy. "And have you given any thought to the possibility of a little... accident happening from these intimate encounters? A little... bun in the oven, so to speak?"
Ayame's composure wavered for the briefest of moments, a flicker of unease in her eyes. She had indeed thought about the possibility, but she had hoped that Itō wouldn't mention it. "We have been careful," she said, her voice slightly more defensive than she intended.
Itō let out a bark of laughter, the sound sharp and cutting. "Careful, you say?" she said, her voice dripping with mockery. "Ah, my sweet, naive Lady Ayame. You and my son, taking careful measures to prevent an accident. How adorable."
Ayame's hands clenched into fists, her expression hardening. She knew where this conversation was headed, and she was bracing herself for the impact of Itō's words. "What is your point, Lady Itō?" she asked, her voice edged with annoyance.
Itō's smirk grew wider at Ayame's defensiveness, feeding off her discomfort. "You see, dear," she cooed, her voice dripping with faux sweetness. "I have been pregnant eleven times. Eleven times, I carried a child in my womb. I know all the signs of a woman's body, especially when her spiritual pressure is fluctuating... And you, my dear, have been rather... unstable lately, haven't you?"
Ayame's eyes widened in surprise at Itō's revelation, taken aback by the number of children she had given birth to. But her shock was quickly replaced by worry as Itō pointed out the fluctuations in her own spiritual pressure. She had indeed felt a bit off lately, but she had hoped that it wouldn't be noticeable to someone as observant as Itō.
"Yes," Itō said, her voice growing ominous. "Your spiritual pressure has been quite erratic as of late. A clear sign that something is amiss. And given your... activities with my son, I can only assume that something unexpected and unwanted might be taking root."
Ayame's heart sank as Itō spoke the words she had feared. Her mind racing, trying to think of a way to deny or deflect Itō's accusations. But there was no denying that she had been feeling off lately, and she knew that if there was even a slight possibility of a pregnancy, Itō would wield it like a weapon against her.
Itō's smirk darkened, her voice taking on a hard edge. "And if, by some chance, you are pregnant, I would suggest that you... get rid of it," she said, her words laced with malice. "My son would make a terrible father. He is cruel, heartless and completely incapable of caring for a child. It would be a disaster if you were to bear his child."
Ayame's heart skipped a beat at Itō's words, feeling a deep sense of nausea and dread creep up her spine. It was one thing for Itō to suspect that she might be pregnant, but to suggest that she get rid of the child, even before its existence was confirmed, was beyond the pale. "Even if that were true," she said, her voice shaking slightly. "I could never go through with it."
Itō's eyes narrowed, her expression hardening. "And why not, Lady Ayame?" she asked, her voice dripping with malice. "Because of your naive sense of morality? Your idealistic view of the world? Or perhaps... because you have already grown attached to the idea of carrying my son's child?"
Ayame's gaze hardened, her voice taking on a steely edge. "None of the above," she said, her voice cold and firm. "I will not get rid of the child because it is not simply his child. It is mine as well. And regardless of his potential as a father, or lack thereof, I will not kill my own child simply just because it is more convenient for you, Lady Itō."
Itō's smirk slipped, a flicker of surprise crossing her face at Ayame's defiance. She had expected to cow her into submission with the weight of her words, but Ayame's strength and determination had taken her off guard. "You are a fool," she said, her voice sharp. "You would bring a child into this world, only to condemn it to a life of neglect and suffering at the hands of my son?"
Ayame's jaw tightened, her eyes meeting Itō's unflinchingly. "I am no fool, Lady Itō," she said, her voice full of conviction. "I know my own mind and my own heart. And regardless of the circumstances, I will not abandon my child. I will love and nurture it, regardless of who the father is. My child deserves that at the very least."
Itō's eyes narrowed, a sneer crossing her lips. "You are so certain, are you not?" she said, her voice mocking. "So confident in your own ideals and your own strength. But let me ask you this, Lady Ayame: what happens if my son's cruelty and malice infects the child? If the child grows up to be as monstrous and detestable as its father?"
Ayame's gaze narrowed, a flicker of anger in her eyes at Itō's words. "And why do you assume that the child will inevitably take after his father's worst traits?" she said. "After all, it is often said that children resemble the parent who raised them the most. And in this case..." She paused, her voice taking on a hint of sarcasm. "...it is clear that Tokinada takes more after you, Lady Itō."
Itō's face turned red, anger and offense clear on her features. "You little-" she began, before cutting herself off, visibly collecting herself. "How dare you?" she hissed, her voice filled with venom. "How dare you accuse me - a noble of the Tsunayashiro house - of being the source of my son's vices?!"
Ayame held Itō's gaze, her eyes not wavering. "But you have, Lady Itō," she said, her voice firm. "You have created a monster, just like yourself. Tokinada is a reflection of your own arrogance, selfishness and cruelty. You have shaped him into the cold, calculating man that he is now."
Itō's jaw clenched, a muscle twitching in her cheek as she struggled to keep her anger in check. She knew Ayame's words were true, that she had a part to play in shaping her son's twisted personality, but hearing them spoken out loud, by someone she saw as opposing her, was almost too much to bear. "You know nothing," she hissed, her voice filled with venom. "You have no idea what you're talking about."
Ayame met Itō's gaze unflinchingly. "Don't I, Lady Itō?" she said, her voice steady and calm. "Don't I know exactly what I'm talking about? After all, I know your son intimately." Her eyes darkened as she spoke, her expression hardening. "And it is through him that I have learned the true character of the esteemed Tsunayashiro matriarch."
Itō's eyes widened, her heart skipping a beat at Ayame's words. The implication was clear: Ayame not only knew her son intimately, but she had also seen a side of him that few others have. Itō clenched her fists, a cold anger building within her. "What, exactly, do you mean by that?" she said, her voice dangerously low.
Ayame held Itō's gaze steady, her voice calm and cold. "I mean, Lady Itō, that I have seen the depths of your son's soul," she said, her words cutting like a knife. "I have know that it is a direct reflection of your own character. You are the one who shaped him into the monster he is today."
Itō's face paled, a wave of unease spreading through her body. She had always known that her son inherited some of her less desirable traits, but to hear it spoken so bluntly and so confidently by someone who had been intimate with him was something else entirely. "You think you know so much, don't you, Lady Ayame?" she said, her voice shaking slightly. "You think you have us all figured out."
Ayame's voice remained steady and firm, her gaze never wavering. "Perhaps," she said. "But even if I am wrong, it does not change the fact that your son is a product of your own making. You have raised him to be cruel and heartless, just like yourself."
Itō clenched her fists, as she struggled to maintain her cool exterior. She knew that Ayame's words were hitting a nerve, stirring up old insecurities and fears that she had long suppressed. "You are mistaken, Lady Ayame," she said, her voice sharp. "You have no idea of the challenges and trials I have faced as a mother. You have no right to judge me so harshly."
Ayame's expression softened, her voice taking on a more sympathetic tone. "I do not judge you lightly, Lady Itō," she said. "I understand that motherhood is a difficult and taxing task, especially in the noble houses. But that does not excuse the way you have raised your son, or the person you have shaped him to be."
Itō's shoulders slumped, a weary expression crossing her face. She knew that Ayame was right. She had often found herself questioning her own parenting at times, wondering if she had made mistakes, or if there was something more she could have done. But to hear it said so plainly by someone else still stung, especially coming from someone like Lady Ayame.
Itō let out a sigh, her voice sounding uncharacteristically weary. "Perhaps you are right," she said, her voice low and quiet. "Perhaps I have shaped my son into the man he is today. But what choice did I have? We live in a world where power and status define everything. A world where the strong thrive and the weak perish. As much as I would have liked to, I could not raise my son soft and tender, like a commoner."
Ayame's expression softened further, a hint of understanding in her eyes. "I understand your position, Lady Itō," she said. "But even in our world, there are different ways to raise a child. It is possible to instill strength and resilience without resorting to cruelty and malice."
Itō chuckled bitterly, shaking her head in disagreement. "You are too naive, Lady Ayame," she said, her voice edged with sarcasm. "In our world, kindness and compassion are seen as weaknesses. If I had raised my son with those virtues, he would have been eaten alive by the other nobles. Your childhood isolation has made you into a foolish woman."
Ayame's expression hardened, her voice taking on a steely edge. "I know full well the dangers and challenges our world presents, Lady Itō," she said. "I have been through hardship and trauma just like you, just like everyone else. That I choose to see the world differently does not make me a fool."
Itō let out a scoff, her eyes narrowing. "You are a fool, Lady Ayame," she said, her voice sharp. "You may have been born into a noble house, but you have led a sheltered life. You do not know the reality of our world, of what it takes to survive and thrive in it. You live in a fairy tale."
Ayame's expression hardened even further as she struggled to maintain her composure. "And you are a narrow-minded, Vain woman, You may have had a harder life, but that does not give you the right to dismiss my experiences or my beliefs. I have seen and endured things that you could only imagine." Her voice took on an edge as she locked her gaze with Itō's. "I may have led a sheltered life, but that does not make me naïve or foolish," she said, her voice steady. "And while I may not know the specific challenges you have faced, I know the hardship that our world brings. You belittle my experiences and beliefs, but you know nothing of the trials and tribulations I have been through. You may think of me as a fairy tale princess, but I am no less strong-willed or determined than you."
Itō's face turned red as her anger and humiliation spiked at Ayame's words. How dare this woman, a spiny Utsunomiya, speak to her with such contempt. It was simply unacceptable. "You arrogant little bitch." she hissed, her voice low and dangerous. "You think yourself so high and mighty, simply because you are Utsunomiya's sacred heir... You are nothing but a flea, a insignificant speck that I could crush beneath my heel if I so desired."