Snippet #1971299

Daiki grinned and shook his head. He would discuss it. Hopefully Kisei would be pleased by this, if not merely amused. "Take your time, Fa Sheng. I do not mean for you to rush into anything. Focus on Hatsue first, make her happy and comfortable as she adjusts to life in our empire. She may be strong, but even a pebble will feel homesick on the bank of a different river."

Daiki laughed, but noticed Fa Sheng's uncomfortable position. It was always difficult for any of the brothers to talk of their father. "He would be proud, brother," Daiki whispered, edging his horse closer. "You have brought our empire to peace, found a beautiful wife, held down rebellions, and have increased Kisei's life expectancy if even only a few questionable years. Father would be proud to see the man you have become. I know I may not show it well, but I am proud to call you my brother."

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Kazumi jumped to Kisei's grasp. She had not expected the motion, not the strength that he possessed. As he spoke, her brows knitted together with first confusion before settling smooth with understanding. She looked down to the ground, nodding her head softly. "I think I can do that," she said, tilting her gaze toward him. Kazumi placed her hand over the grasp on her sleeve, watching him carefully, warmly.