Snippet #1952921

Daiki nodded gravely, pressing the tips of his fingers together with doubt. He did not like Kazumi. This girl was a street urchin, scum that should not even be allowed to see the palace, let alone walk inside it. And, she had attempted to steal from them.

However, for this moment, that was not why Daiki hated this girl. He hated her, no, was repulsed by her because could do what he couldn't. Never in his life had Daiki been able to make Kisei smile in that way this tramp had in less than twenty-four hours of knowing his younger brother. This, in Daiki's mind, was her largest offense. He cringed as Fa Sheng mirrored his own thoughts, claiming that this was good for Kisei. Daiki couldn't help but agree. Even this, scikened him. They were Kisei's brothers, his happiness should be from their bringing. Not hers, a servant!

"It should be us in there not her," Daiki snarled, soft enough not to bother the pair. Even so, Daiki could not bring himself to end Kisei's joy. He turned on his heels and marched from the room, fuming with hatred and envy.

---

Kazumi smiled to herself. For the first time in many years, she was having fun. Pure, simple, childish fun. She did not need to worry about Kiko's safety or question where their next meal would come from. She could just sit here and fold paper, enjoying time as no weight hung over her head. To Kisei's question, Kazumi paused. She swallowed softly and finished her own flower as she collected her thoughts on the matter. "You speak like a royal," Kazumi mused softly, smiling coyly to him. "You questions are manipulated into demands that one cannot refuse. It is an interesting technique to use, Kisei. You have not spent much time with people, have you?" she asked softly, brushing his cheek with the back of her hand and tucking away his stray lock of black hair.

"My village," she began, settling down and folding her hands in thought, "is loud. From dawn the farmers being to wake and start their day. And then the traveling merchants are not far behind with their carts of treats and brightly colored toys. The woman will typically go down to the stream together for laundry as the young children scamper about to trade their nonsense chatter and riddles. It is loud, but it is peaceful." Kazumi smiled, her head turned out to the garden. "Everyone knows eachother because my village is small. But in one word... my village is home."