Asami's Shadow (Ryoma's POV)

Chapter 25

I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding when Kaida and the others strode in.  It was a fight to maintain my calm demeanor, since I'd been on edge since leaving the estate.  It took all my restraint not to go for the empress as soon as she arrived, demanding the princess be brought to her and threatening us with war.  Emperor handled it, but... none of us appreciated her gall.

Kaida and Sunako scanned the room as the entered and I was taken aback.  Though Asami was dressed as a princess, how she got the robes I didn't know, but the two flanking her when in all dark attire.  Sunako had greys and blacks, while Kaida sported deep purples, blues, and blacks; her hair braided down her back. Both wore loose pants tied at the ankles and form fitting tops, nothing to restrict their movements in the least.   Then... ninja?

Homura was frowning as they approached and looked at them with disgust as they stood confident before her.  That was until Asami bowed deeply and the duo behind her knelt in a vaguely familiar fashion.  There was a restless movement around me at the sight, clans were not welcome here in the open.  "Thank you for receiving us great emperor, I regret not coming to see your magnificent palace sooner."

As her voice floated through the hall I blinked.  This is not the same girl I met.  Emperor Wu beamed, but I saw him warily watching Kaida, who hadn't moved.  "It's okay little princess, it is my understanding you were sick and your... handmaiden, injured when Lord Ryoma took you into his care.  You both needed to rest and heal, I hope your journey here has been pleasant."

The princess smiled sweetly.  Nope, she half as good as Kaida.  "Yes, Your Majesty, your land is very beautiful, I hope to see more of it in my stay here now that I am well.  I apologize for not sending word to you sooner, however..."

He waved his hand dismissively, I know he was as overjoyed as I was.  They are staying... she doesn't even like me.  "Nonsense!  You were being pursued and didn't know who to trust.  It makes sense that you wait until you aunt would safely take you home to reveal your identity."

Her head bowed slightly and I saw Youta fighting a smile as he looked at me.  Maybe... just maybe...  "I truly appreciate your understanding."

I saw the empress was fuming as he turned to her.  "This is in fact your niece, the crown princess, correct?"

Her smile was forced as she faced him.  "Why yes, I am delighted that I can safely bring her home.  We in the Shu Kingdom have been worried sick."

I frowned as he turned back to the trio, the two still bowed.  Fix that, she can't leave yet... why won't they move? "Well then it's settled, the princess shall return home when she is ready." That put me at ease.  "Easy enough fix, but I hope that you will stay a little longer so that we all can become more aquainted."

The empress nearly gaped as Asami nodded.  "I would very much like that, Your Majesty, it is my understanding that my parents and yourself were familiar with each other."

He laughed as she played that card, she had no idea why.  "Yes, we are great friends and our kingdoms have been at peace for sometime because of it."  That and the fact that they had your niece and my betrothed....

She bowed again.  "Then, I hope to have the opportunity to continue that relationship."

He clapped.  "Then it's decided.  You, your handmaidens, and your aunt can remain her in the palace until you are ready to leave.  Prepare their rooms!"

I could see the empress tense with rage, probably because she was left out of the enamored exchange other than to confirm.  When Asami turned and passed the girls they rose and turned in one smooth, graceful motion.  They moved fluidly and in sync.  Okay... that's not normal, but she convinced the princess to stay.  Or... maybe not...

I stood and approached the throne as we were dismissed, smiling.  "That was nice."

Youta threw a wary glance at the empress.  "Yes, come and tell me more about them since they have agreed."

"I agreed to nothing."

He arched a brow, disinterested.  "Then leave, they seem to be faring fine on their own."

She began to tremble and turned on her heel.  "Wait until I get my hands on th..."

I turned as her voice faded.  "What did she say?"

Youta was staring after her too.  "She can't touch the princess..."

I lowered my gaze.  "I don't think I could control myself if..."

He thought for a moment and caught a servant.  "Go see to the girls, if the empress sends for one of them tell us immediately."

She bowed and went to do as she was bid.  "Youta... this wouldn't be the first time if she harms her.  But what can we do?"

He shook his head.  "Be there to stop her.  I will have her movements watched."

I nodded.  "Thank you..."