Kingdom of Power, of Courage, and of Wisdom

Ryo's War - Feast Fit for Enemies

-Kanyou, Capital of Qin-

Link could only stare, slack-jawed and numb, as Ryo Fui and Riboku shook hands. He wanted to say something but could only draw a blank. It wasn't like he could add anything useful anyways. What they were discussing was so far over his head he could barely grasp it. He heard a lot about borders, what-if's, who attacks who or who defends who, several names he didn't recognize, and then the word 'alliance.' When alliance popped up, however, Link knew without a doubt that these two men, in only a few minutes, had accomplished something only the greatest of generals could hope to accomplish in years.

The handshake ended, and Zelda requested everyone stand by comfortably as a feast was prepared. Servants quickly brought out pillows for guests to sit on and rushed to the kitchen to prepare. Zelda left as well, leaving Impa and Ryo in charge.

Impa said to the now idling crowd, "Everyone, this will not take long, so please be patient with us. We already have much of the means prepared for a feast in the hope this occasion ended on a positive note. Now that our hopes have been realized, we need only bring it together."

Her words seemed to do the trick, as everyone milled about peaceably. Impa sighed in relief. She had half-expected them to grow irritable at waiting to eat and ruin the positive turn of events.

Impa faced Ryo after her explanation. "Chancellor Ryo, would you be so kind as to stay and help keep everyone appeased?"

"I think my abilities would be better suited to managing the staff to create an incredible feast," Ryo argued.

"It would be, but you have done enough. For now, let us do the rest," Impa replied. She left before he could argue further.

Ryo sighed in defeat, causing Riboku to chuckle. Riboku said, "It would appear the women have kicked you out of the literal and proverbial kitchen, dear Ryo."

Despite the heavy atmosphere, those that heard him laughed, the loudest being Ryo. "Perhaps you are right!"

Back in the crowd, Link couldn't just sit and wait to learn more about what really happened. He was too antsy by nature. Knowing this, he worked his way out the backrow, entered a side door, and made his way through the halls. Solitare followed him, uncomfortable in the crowd. She pulled up her scarf again but left her hood down in order to keep from looking like an assassin.

Link caught sight of Zelda in a large room keeping watch on the feast preparations. A few servant masters commanded the staff, and Zelda stood by to make sure everything was perfect. Every now and then, she made a statement for something to be adjusted.

Zelda ordered, "Don't put Kei Ki next to Matsubi. Last time they came near each other they almost killed one another. Also, don't let him sit near me, Lord Geoffrey Mitagi, or Riboku... and sure as hell not near Ryo. The last thing I need is those two together. You know what, just put Kei Ki either with the heaviest drinkers or on his own. He may get along with Duke Hyou. Next, I want the tables lined up this way," she turned along the wall, "so it lines up with the windows and the sun won't blind half the room."

"Hey Zelda!" Link called. He ran into the room, nearly knocking down a servant carrying stacks of plates on his way. He stopped as he came near, and though he was happy to see her, she did not return the sentiment.

"Yes...?" Zelda asked.

"What?"

"Can't you see I am busy?"

"Aren't you happy to see me?!"

"I am. I saw you in the crowd, but- No!" Zelda threw her hands up at the servants. "Don't put the Ki and Mitagi together! And don't put Kei Ki with the rest of the Ki! Just put him in the corner!"