Asami's Shadow (Ryoma's POV)

Chapter 23

I looked at the pair, happy that she didn't just take off.  "Is everything okay?"

I was surprised at the concern in the other girl's voice, breaking away from the monotone she was using with me.  So... is it the princess?  "Everything is fine, Sunako.  I need all the details you've gathered so far."

She stood.  "This is what I have confirmed: Homura left the palace yesterday in a hurry.  She will be here in 3 days, 2 if she pushes it.  She sent no one ahead of her so it will be a surprise."

I looked between the two as silent words passed between them.  "She will have to go to the emperor first before seeking out the princess."

I was ignored.  "The man who sent her word has been reported missing or dead."  A guilty smile graced my little tiger's lips.  No one seemed at all surprised.  "The empress left as soon as she received word."

The girl shook her head and looked at me.  "The reports she received states the princess was ill and alone.  So, we will need to build around that to start with.  Also, it was reported that troops have been gathered to go against the Wei Kingdom, but will attack here first if met with resistance."

I frowned at her, as that was a warning and Kaida nodded.  "I can solve both of those problems, but first, the one right in front of us." She glanced at the princess, then at me.  How is she going to stop an army?  "Ryoma, I need you to go and prepare your house.  When we finish here we will follow."

I was in no position to argue, I had to trust she wouldn't just leave.  I nodded as I stood.  "Just stay safe."

I heard a thump as someone was glaring at my back.  "Stop that, he is an ally for now."

I didn't glance back because I was smiling.  Ally means she stays...  I quickly made my way back, glancing in the trees for that hawk, but he never showed as I broke through the trees.  Okay, get the estate in order...

I was mildly surprised as scents drifting to me from inside.  Okay... just make sure that everything is flowing?  I stepped in and was greeted by a line of smiling servants who were glancing behind me expectantly. Their faces fell when they saw I was alone and Chiyo approached.  "Where is Lady Kaida... and the princess?"

Okay, the fact that royalty was an after thought I found entertaining, but really I was right here. "No hi? Good evening, Lord Ryoma, you've been out in the rain?  It's all about the little tiger who, might I add, has threatened a good deal of you. Not to mention... injured me... more than once."

She clicked her tongue.  "Jealousy, doesn't suit you and I gave you tonic for cold, if you took it."

I frowned.  "She forced me to."

She nodded, smiling.  "Good, now you will need another bath and out of those wet clothes and you should be fine. My Lady has already requested the same for her companions and will see to them personally after I check them."

I glowered at her.  "I do pay you..."

She chuckled.  "And she is the reason we are graced with more than a visit this time."

I knew I was being childish, but really... she's not that cute, except for me.  "Just admit you like her better."

"What can I say? I'm awesome."

I narrowed my eyes as everyone jumped into action, but abruptly stopped making me turn my gaze to the trio behind me.  The girl she called Sunako stood in front of the princess and Kaida in front of them both, hands raised.  "We talked about this.  Ms. Chiyo sees to make sure they are healthy.  I see to their needs..."

Everyone exchanged chastened grins and I sighed. "Nope, I'm just here.  Not soaking wet or anything.  Just a figment of your imaginations."

Kaida took some offered towels and frowned at me.  "Now you're just being childish, they care just... royalty trumps lordship." She nodded towards my room.  "Go get a bath and change, I will take care of things here."

I glowered at her as everyone chuckled.  "Whatever..."

Honestly, it made my chest warm that the staff grew to love her.  It would make everything easier if things went to plan.  Also, she didn't realize they seemed to care nothing for the princess.  Probably because they deduced that she was the reason Kaida showed up in that state.

I was surprised when there were dry clothes waiting for me and the attendant looked up.  "Lady Ka-"

I shook my head, smiling.  "Thank you."  She quickly nodded and scurried out.  Guess she doesn't want a repeat of earlier...  I sighed in relief as I sunk into the bath.  My little tiger is here with her most prized possession, so for a short time... she will be here.  Convincing the Emperor to get them to stay longer was nothing because he didn't want her going back to Shu anyway.  Everything seems to be falling in place... if only for a moment...