Asami's Shadow (Ryoma's POV)

Chapter 12

She sat silently, watching the men around her.  She didn't seem uncomfortable in the least and seemed impressed with the soup was placed in front of her.  I saw her take a small sip and swish before swallowing.  She really thinks I'd poison her? She's on her own now.

The questions started to to flow and she answer in quick succession.  Even I started to believe the words spilling from her lips so naturally.  Problem was... I knew some of the truth.  Damn... impressive.

"What's your name?"

"Kaida."

"Where are you from?"

"The kingdom of Yao Lin."

"Are you nobility?"

"Yes and no. I'm from the old family of Yu, however, not from the main family."

"How did you end up here, so far from home?"

"I was kidnapped while journeying to see friends. My kidnappers wanted a ransom, not knowing my parents have since passed. I escaped and ran for my life knowing no one would pay such a high price for a lower class orphan."

She painted the perfect picture as they continued her interrogation.  I smirked when she glanced at me.  I'd mess it all up at this point.  Plus, I'm enjoying this.  She lied so fluently that I even began to question why she hadn't before now or if... maybe she had.  That made no sense and yet she never really said anything about herself either.

The high lords were impressed to say the least.  A lower born noble orphan who escaped those who held her hostage.  There was no room for question, it was a masterpiece that even I couldn't have come up with ample time to prepare.  Her only warning was when they began to arrive.

She didn't even seem relieved when the subject diverted from her.  Only listened as the others spoke.  She did seem to be enjoying the meal though, I took note and began to join the conversation mindlessly.  Just stick to her story...

One of the ministers turned to look at me directly and I went on high alert.  I couldn't remember his name, but he was lower in ranking.  This can't be good.  "So Ryoma what do you plan to do with this young damsel?"

I saw her smirk and turn her attention to me, chewing slowly. "It's her choice, but I would like for her to remain here where she is safe."

She had to swallow twice, the duck suddenly not agreeing with her as she took a sip of water. What did she expect... "Well she is alone, but don't you think you should send word to her family first."

I sat back my anger already beginning to surface.  "I will when she gives me the word."

Her eyes narrowed and another man who I didn't recognize set down his utensils. "Word has been sent to the Shu Kingdom about this Kaida. She does bear a striking resemblance to the princess."

I tried to maintain composure as I propped my elbows on table to balance my chin on my finger. "This is news. Who would send such a notice since she's only been here on this estate?"

He nervously pulled at his collar. Guilty as charged... I will kill him.  "I heard about the girl and sent someone here to investigate."

I couldn't contain my rage anymore and the others took note, except Kaida, she looked on with mild interest.  They... sent someone here? "Without consulting me first?" All the ministers began exchange nervous glances.  So, a number of them thought of it then, but this one actually made contact before confirming.

The minister shifted in his chair slightly, knocking over his spoon. "Well, it seemed the utmost importance that the princess be returned home..."

I stood, unable to sit still any longer. "My lord, with all due respect, I believe you had more interest in the hefty reward that would be given for the return of said princess."  I glanced around the table noting that a few had started to sweat, Kaida seemed unaffected as she watched curiously.  She doesn't even cower when men do...  "I believe it is time you take your leave."

The minister rose as well and I raised my eyebrows, noting Kaida was a little disheartened.  He wasn't threatening in the least, she clearly was expecting more.  "You ungrateful ingrate! Will you deny the empress herself?!" Everyone in the room froze except me and Kaida, who had apparently thought she had food and a show.

I tilted my head as I registered he was yelling at me in my own home, close to snapping.  He would try to steal her away? Clearly, he knows nothing of me.  "When?"

He smirked.  "The girl should come with me to avoid any confusion, she can be returned here once the empress confirms this is not the princess."

I lost what little control I had and grabbed him by the throat. Everyone cleared the way, but I noticed my little tiger didn't move an inch, entertained by what she saw.  Not even this frightens her...  "I said, when."

I was trying to squeeze the answer from his lips, mildly aware when someone approached.  He thinks he can just come here and... "Ryoma..." He deserves to die...  I felt a small hand gently touch my arm.  Keiko... "Ryoma, he can't breathe so he can't talk."

I couldn't deny her and reluctantly let him go.  Be happy she isn't angry... yet. "I will ask one last time before I really kill you..."

"6 days starting tomorrow!" He was rubbing his neck, evidence of my actions flashing in and out of view.

I shook myself and straightened my clothes, unable to stand the sight of him.  He spied on my home... on my betrothed and thought to take her away.  He will die, but not when she is present.  I can spare her the sight.  "Get out."

He rushed out, fearing for his life and Kaida rolled her eyes before taking her seat again. She spared him... why?  Everyone nervously chuckled before following suit and I did the same, eyeing each if them.  "I guess we all need to prepare for the arrival of an empress..."