Foundations of Decay

Chapter 2: Zantedeschia aethiopica

Gorou brushed out his fur hastily before slipping on the silk fabric of a kosode. If he were to play the part of a diplomat, he must present it through his appearance as well. Thus he forwent his standard uniform, which normally showcased his toned body, and went for something more covered. The intricate silver tree pattern etched into the robe stood out against dark blue fabric presenting the pinnacle of elegance and wealth. It was an odd sight to see. Gorou loved the freedom he had in his armour; however, it was ill-fitting for a meeting of this status.

The group reached atop the tree and stood in front of Lesser Lord Kusanali’s residence soon after. However, Gorou was shocked that they were, in actuality, not the only people there. A crowd was formed outside of Lesser Lord Kusanali’s closed doors, composed mainly of raging farmers. They beat their fists against the palace gates, screaming wretched words that Gorou could not make out properly.

Curiously enough, every one of these workers had animalistic traits, be its ears, tails, or whiskers. Gorou walked closer to the group to see the commotion in greater detail before a man stopped him.

“State your purpose.” He threatened, his eyes locking keenly onto Gorou’s animalistic appendages.

“My name is General Gorou, representative of Watatsumi Island, and I have an audience with Lesser Lord Kusanali” He kept his voice as neutral as possible, further disconnecting himself from the raging farmers that thrashed outside of palace gates.

The guard looked at him, and then at his envoy before giving a sharp nod and proceeding to lead the way. Instead of the main doors where all the common folk had gathered, the guard took them elsewhere. Towards the back of the palace, through a door well hidden by the lush foliage surrounding it.

What greeted them inside was a spiral staircase that seemed like it went on for miles. Gorou took the opportunity to mentally prepare himself for the meeting. He was a General, not a diplomat. Sure, on occasion, he would do diplomatic work when speaking with the Tri-Commission. Still, Kokomi would usually let official ambassadors handle that. It was rare for him to get involved, yet here he was.

At the top of the staircase, a magnificent set of doors greeted them, something so utterly lavish even a fool would be able to tell their value. The guard gave two sharp raps, and the doors opened seamlessly as if they were controlled by magic.

The guard walked in first, followed by the general and his people. The hall was just as lavish as the doors, if not more embellished with luxuries and riches that Gorou had never seen in his life. Towards the centre back was a palanquin, covered in beautiful red mesh drapery that concealed a small body.

To his surprise, the man that Gorou had encountered on that one fateful day stood to the right of the palanquin. Al-Haitham, if Gorou could remember correctly. Shame washed over him spontaneously at the reminder of what had occurred that day. It seemed like the same could be said about the other man as well, Al-Haitham’s face contorted into a grimace before quickly returning to its stoic default at the sight of the general.

“Presenting General Gorou of Watatsumi Island and his delegation.” The guard reported and respectfully bowed towards the palanquin. Gorou followed his lead and inclined his head to show the Archon they were here, primarily, on diplomatic terms and not a threat.

Gorou could barely make out a hand lifting behind the veils of the palanquin, but he could hear a sharp snap. In barely even a second, two servants rushed forth and pulled back the curtains revealing the young Archon, who sat on plush ruby cushions. Gorou, in all honesty, did not expect someone so young-looking to be in charge of Sumeru, but the Archon looked not even a day over 12.

“General Gorou, was it? I received an advanced notice from Sangonomiya, but I did not expect you to be here so soon.” She spoke; her voice was delicate, just like a child’s. But her eyes were sharp, piercing, like she knew Gorou’s entire life just by looking at him.