Verdant Skies

In the cozy, sunlight room of Iris' cottage, the scent of freshly worked steel and wood lingers in the air. It was a quaint thing nestled above a smithy. The room had a rustic charm, with its wooden beams and simple, practical furnishings. The wooden roof overhead, different from the usual medieval-style roofing, was a unique design by the cottage's owner. It allowed natural light to pour in, casting warm, dappled shadows across the room, especially in the early hours of the day. There was a soft grumble from the bed, Ginny leaned back on her hands as she narrowed her eyes at Iris, "I can't believe he's forcing you to act like his consort."

Letting out a low huff as she turned away from the bag of things she'd been packing, Iris looked at Ginny with a slight scowl, "Not his consort," she corrected, "but I have to play the part of a foreign princess visiting from a distant land. If we want any chance of our plan working, we've got to play along."

"I just...Ris," Ginny let out a deep sigh, "You've never been on board with this kind of thing. And the fact he's forcing you into this?" She frowned at Iris, "This...it's almost like torture,"

Turning away from Ginny as a wave of discomfort washed over her, Iris's hand twitched as she struggled against the urge to touch the collar still curled tightly around her neck. Outside, the gentle whirl of a waterwheel sounded, providing a soothing but incongruous backdrop to their conversation. Her voice was brittle as she spoke, "If it means ensuring our plans work, that you're all safe, I'll deal with it, even if every single fiber of my body hates it."

There was a soft creak from the bed before a hand settled on Iris' shoulder, the movement started her a bit. She turned her head to see Ginny smiling gently at her with eyes full of understanding and sorrow, "I know. I just...We all hate that you're going through this because of that collar," Iris's fingers finally brushed against the eternally cold metal, causing a shiver to run down her spine, "For all that we're grateful, it...seeing you go through so much hurts."

As Iris's fingers ran across the intricate rune-like patterns engraved within the metal collar, her touch felt cold, and a shiver raced down her spine. The weight of her sacrifice was never more apparent than in that moment. She found herself struggling to keep her emotions in check, her throat tightening as she tried to hold back the overwhelming dread that threatened to consume her. Clearing her throat with a soft cough as she forced her hand down, she spoke as her voice became somewhat thready as resignation and determination warned, "It's worth it if you all can have some kind of freedom though,"

Before Ginny could respond, the abrupt, loud creaking of footsteps cut off their conversation. Iris let out a low groan of frustration, fearing that Lord Habi's timing was as cruel as ever. Ginny expressed her surprise, "Already? But I thought you would've still had time."

As Iris turned toward the door, the air in her cozy cottage grew heavy with tension. Her heart raced as the ominous knock resounded through the room followed by a heavy creak leaving no room for hesitation, the dread coiling her heart tightened. With trepidation in her eyes, Iris picked up her bag, and the sight of Captain Mattis standing in the doorway was enough to make her lips go dry. Forcing herself to keep her voice steady as those steel gray eyes met hers, she greeted the man, "Captain Mattis," She was somewhat relieved her voice was steady despite the emotion roiling through her, "Time to go?"

"Indeed," Captain Mattis replied, his gaze flickering briefly to Ginny with a disapproving sneer, making it clear that he wasn't pleased with her presence.

Speaking before the silence could linger, Iris turned to Ginny, "Oh before I forget," She pulled out her key to the cottage and handed it to Ginny with urgency in her eyes, "Like we talked about, right?"

Seeing the look in her eyes, Ginny nodded and put the key into her pocket, "Will do...See you later, Ris."

With a final nod of gratitude and a parting glance, Iris followed Captain Mattis out of her cottage and down the stairs. His voice was filled with urgency as he spoke, making it clear that Lord Habi's plans waited for no one. "Come, Lady Iris. Lord Habi wants us to hurry as the Kou were spotted not far from the city walls. We have little time to return to the castle and have you ready by the time they arrive."

With her stomach churning, Iris clutched the straps of her bag and stepped into the carriage.

As they'd embarked on the final leg of their journey through the Goulon Empire, Kouha had become increasingly restless especially once they'd finally passed into the city. With the ever-evolving tapestry of vibrant city life and colors, the boy's face was almost always pressed against the window despite Koumei's attempts to pry him away from it. While Koumei and Kouen were no strangers to such sights as they'd passed through similar places before, Kouha was becoming steadily overwhelmed as time passed on. While he was amused by the antics of his siblings, Kouen could tell that Koumei was becoming overwhelmed. Raising himself from his lounging position against the window he'd taken, he addressed Kouha, "Calm yourself, Ha. You'll have time to explore later on."

"I know, I know," Kouha muttered with a half-hearted slump back into his seat, all the while maintaining his scowl, which was now directed at Koumei. "But this is the first time I've been away from the empire, Entei. I'm excited,"

Kouen's smirk revealed a hint of amusement as he responded, "I'm aware. However, you still need to rein in your excitement, Ha. We aren't here for pleasure, after all."

Kouha straightened up, his eyes shimmering with fervor. "That's part of why I'm so excited, Entei. The idea of actually being able to help you out now makes me so happy."

A shared glance between Kouen and Koumei conveyed their silent understanding. Koumei, ever acting as the voice of reason for their younger brother, reminded Kouha, "Still, you have to contain yourself. We can't do anything without information—"

Kouha waved Koumei off with an animated flourish. "Which requires us to go in and investigate," he interjected, a touch of impatience in his voice. "I know, Mei. You've told me like thirty times already." He grinned brightly, practically vibrating in his seat. "So shut it already,"

As the cobblestone streets gave way to a smoother road, Kouen's eyes caught sight of their carriage turning onto a pine tree-lined avenue of pale stone. As they got further up towards the castle, they began passing guardsmen on horseback who bore dark-colored amour and fluttering banners. The sigil of a rearing horse on a burning field decorated the banner marking this place as Lord Habi's. As they rolled past the dark iron gate into the inner courtyard, Koumei spoke as Kouha let out a low whistle, "We're about to start, Ha. Remember-"

"If anyone asks, you're both here to foster trade with the Goulon Empire as well as discuss a possible alliance," Kouha interjected, crossing his arms with a slight pout. "I am here to watch how you two do things and to see what goes on in other kingdoms since I've never left the Kou Empire."

"Not quite-" Koumei pressed a hand to his face.

"It's good enough," Kouen shook his head in amusement, "We don't have time to go over anything else,"

The carriage came to a stop, and Kouen, flanked by his younger siblings, disembarked. The guardsmen stationed around the walls and by the castle's entrance regarded them with stoic professionalism, their dark-colored armor exuding an air of authority. Keeping a blank expression, he surveyed the inner courtyard that stretched out before them. The gardens were lush and beautifully tended, with a prominent fountain at its center. The depiction of a man standing triumphantly on a subdued dragon in the fountain's design was disconcerting.

Forcing the distaste that wanted to rear up back, Kouen could see from that fountain just what Lord Habi valued in his Empire. It was a symbol of dominance and control, a stark contrast to the values of the Kou Empire. It told him how very different their countries were without even needing to spend much time there. Pushing the thought from his mind as a commotion rang out ahead of them, he focused as a group of attendants began to approach. The head of the group bore a golden pendant with Lord Habi's sigil emblazoned, on his right breast. Wearing a bright white tunic underneath a black vest and darkly colored trousers, the man bowed slightly as he greeted them with a warm smile, "Welcome, honored guests from the Kou Empire," he had a far too friendly tone, "I am Chief Steward Kael. Lord Habi is looking forward to your visit. Please, come with me, and we will escort you to the reception hall where you can freshen up before the formal proceedings."

Nodding in acknowledgment, Kouen and his siblings followed after Chief Steward Kael into the castle and through its intricately designed corridors. Blending opulence and dominance, Lord Habi wished to ensure his claim on this place was known. It made his skin crawl almost as much as having to deal with Gyokuen inside the woman's chambers. As Kouha started releasing small noises after seeing some of the more intricate artwork, Koumei shared a look with him. Either Kouha was trying to sell his part of their little mission or he was interested in that kind of thing, he couldn't be sure with his youngest brother as the boy tended to jump from one end to the other when it came to art.

Arriving at a pair of golden doors, Chief Steward Kael pushed them open allowing the three princes inside the reception hall. Much like the rest of the castle so far, it exuded grandeur and luxury, the ceiling boasted gilded chandeliers which gave off warm welcoming light. Elaborate tapestries adorned the walls, depicting scenes of valor and conquest, reinforcing the theme of dominance that ran through the Goulon Empire's design. In the center of the room, a long table was set with an array of refreshments and beverages. Keeping his features carefully blank, Kouen felt a small amount of approval at the sight.

Giving them a polite bow as he released a small cough to regain their attention, Chief Steward Kael spoke as he gestured to the table, "Feel free to freshen up and enjoy the refreshments offered to you, My lord will join you shortly. In the meantime, someone will be right outside ready to answer any questions you may have."

With another bow, Chief Steward Kael left them alone and the doors slid shut with a small click. Kouha started towards the food only for Koumei to grab his arm. Pouting at him, Kouha whined, "But, Mei-"

"Not until Habi arrives and eats something," Koumei replied earning a look of confusion, "Do you want to be poisoned?"

"O-oh, right," Kouha stilled a bit.

Moving to stand by the window, Kouen noted the soldiers that were 'subtly' keeping an eye on the room. Didn't trust them at all, he mentally snorted and moved toward one of the couches to sit down.

Trailing after an attendant assigned to work with her, Iris was led into a room that had been prepared for her. Rather than the dank, dark chamber she half expected, she found herself standing in a chamber of breathtaking opulence nestled deep within the heart of Lord Habi's castle. A twisting sensation gnawed at her gut as memories flooded back making her throat tighten. But she forced herself to follow the attendant and survey the room that was prepared for her, though she knew nothing within was for her comfort, only for the performance she was about to undertake.

The walls were adorned with rich, dark wood paneling, intricately carved with ornate designs and gilded accents that caught the light and shimmered like stars in the night sky. Beneath her feet, the floor was made of polished white marble that glistened like liquid moonlight under the soft, golden radiance of crystal chandeliers. The chandeliers hung from the ceiling casting a warm ethereal glow from their perches above as the crystal and glass mixture gleamed. Large gilded windows framed with heavy curtains allowed the golden rays of the sun to filter into the room creating dappled patterns on the marble floor, the curtains themselves were made of heavy luxurious velvet.

Scattered about the room were various pieces of furniture, the wood patterned and stained dark with rich regal colors upholstered on them. The vases were filled to the brim with flowers that looked to have been plucked straight from the nearby garden. As she breathed in the rich scents that filled the air, Iris marveled slightly over the meticulous detail that had been put in. Had it not been for the collar's weight hanging from her neck, she would've felt as if she'd been transported back to those early days within this world before Lord Habi's true nature had been revealed.

Clearing her throat delicately, the attendant strode towards a long ornate mirror that had been set up by a delicate dressing table, "Lady Iris, I have taken the liberty of preparing a small selection of dresses for you. Please, allow me to assist you in getting ready for your part."

Head inclining as she moved towards the dressing table, Iris' neck feeling just a bit heavier than before at the reminder, "Yes...Of course."

Quickly nodding to Iris, the attendant glanced over the dresses before pulling one from the small pile. turning to Iris as she raised it, the attendant's lips were pulled into the slightest smile which was a small change from the blank and disgusted looks she normally got. Eyeing the dress, she admitted that it would do well for the start of their plan and fit into what Lord Habi expected of everyone who resided within his castle. Rich in color, the dark blue looked more black with the silver accents standing out against the darker color. With its flowing skirt and sleeves, the dress would fit the image Lord Habi wished her to take on rather well.

As the attendant held the dress out, she said, "I believe this will suit you perfectly, Lady Iris. Now, please, let's get you ready."

Taking a deep breath to steel herself, Iris stepped up to the dressing table. She couldn't afford to make any missteps from here on out. Lord Habi was cunning and would happily use any mistake against her if it meant she'd continued to be collared to him. No matter what happened from this point on, she wouldn't allow herself to fail. She took a deep breath as the attendant began to work and found her eyes slowly peering into the mirror. Rather than the tired and harsh expression that she'd become used to, the woman who looked back at her was regal. Everything about her from the posture she kept to her composed expression read as such, it was the mask she'd begun carefully crafting as soon as Lord Habi had chosen it. As much as she loathed it, she'd become good at crafting masks since arriving in this world.

Breathing out as she pushed away her lingering feelings, Iris murmured, "Thank you for your help. I appreciate your assistance in preparing for my... role."

Remaining stoic as she continued to help Iris, the attendant's nimble fingers deftly adjusted the dress as needed. The woman nodded as she fastened the dress, "You have been chosen for a significant role, Lady Iris. Lord Habi has great expectations for your performance. Do not disappoint him."

Iris could sense the underlying threat in the attendant's words, but she maintained her regal facade and replied, "I understand, and I will do my best to meet Lord Habi's expectations."

Seemingly satisfied with Iris' response, the attendant stepped back to admire her work, "You look impeccable, Lady Iris. Now, there is one more thing Lord Habi has requested you wear," She reached to a wooden box on the table and withdrew a silk scarf that matched the dress, "Not just today, you must always wear a scarf when in the presence of the Kou royals."

Understanding that it would be a mere tool in hiding Lord Habi's ownership of her, Iris mentally scowled even as she accepted the scarf. Slipping it around her neck, she shivered as the silky fabric brushed against the uncovered portions of her skin. She managed to keep her voice steady despite the turmoil curling within her, "Thank you for the information, I will endeavor to obey Lord Habi's instructions."

The attendant's expression remained impassive as she replied, "It is expected of Lord Habi's pet, Lady Iris. Now, if you are ready, we can proceed with the rest of your preparations."

Inwardly scowling at the title she never wished for, Iris inclined her head and met the attendant's gaze, "Yes, I'm ready."

Trailing after another attendant, Kouen's mind ran over what they had experienced so far. As expected from their meeting, Lord Habi had been ambiguous when it came to any kind of diplomatic talk and continuously tried steering the conversation toward the Kou Empire. Especially when it came to their metal vessels, it had made him mentally smirk at the thought though he'd forced himself to focus when the man had extended them a dinner invitation before leaving after a problem occurred. This dinner would likely be one of the better attempts they had at gaining an idea of Lord Habi's intentions, he wouldn't miss out on an opportunity to gain any information that would allow them an advantage in the future.

Reaching another pair of great golden doors, the attendant leading the trio pushed them open revealing a lavish room beyond as he gestured for them to enter. As they entered the dining hall, Kouen noticed that it much like the rest of this place radiated a sense of grandeur. The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries, the long dining table covered with the finest porcelain dishes, and the crystal chandeliers above cast a soft, warm light over the room. Taking the lead as per usual, he stepped forward leading his brothers further into the room.

The attendant announced, "My lord, I have brought the guests you requested for the dinner."

Bowing respectfully to Lord Habi as the man stood, Kouen spoke with his tone coated in formality, "Lord Habi, thank you for allowing us to eat with you."

Lips curving into a welcoming smile, Lord Habi inclined his head, "But of course, I wouldn't be a good host if we didn't dine together on your first night. Now shall we sit down," He gestured to the table, "After all, my chefs have prepared us a wonderful meal for tonight."

Moving to take a seat, Kouen settled down with Kouha and Koumei taking a seat on either side of him. As they were all served their food, he noticed a fifth plate being set out and frowned slightly at the sight. As Kouen went to speak, Kouha did with a slight grin on his face, "Did your servants forget to count? They have an extra plate out."

As Koumei turned to scowl at Kouha for that, Lord Habi let out a low chuckle causing them to pause slightly. The man shook his head, "Ah, you noticed that? No, it isn't a mistake. We will be having another join us tonight...a special guest."

Sharing a glance with his brothers at that, Kouen's eyes narrowed as the Lord hadn't mentioned anyone else joining them before now. The way Lord Habi worded it made something in his stomach shift uneasily. He spoke while reaching for his wine goblet which had been untouched until now, "I see."

As Kouen's mind wandered, the great doors opened once more prompting him to turn and watch as another attendant walked in leading Lord Habi's supposed special guest. Walking behind the attendant was a slim heavily tanned woman, She wore a flowing dress in deep blue and silver that accentuated her enigmatic beauty. Tightly bound by silvery accessories, she wore her ebony hair up in a tight bun. Her lips had been stained a delicate pale pink, she peered about the room with a pair of emerald-green eyes that showed a heavy depth of emotion that he couldn't pick through.

Standing from the table once more, Lord Habi clapped his hands with a bright grin, "And here she is now," It was somewhat disturbing to see how the man's eyes lit up as he stared at the woman, "Allow me to introduce you all to Lady Iris, she will be gracing us with her presence this evening," He held out his hand to the woman who slowly strode towards the table, "Lady Iris," The way he said her name sent alarm bells through Kouen's skull though he didn't quite know why, "I am ever so glad that you managed to make it, my dear."

There was just the slightest flicker of emotion in those emerald eyes, it was gone before Kouen could identify it. Lips pulling into a smile as she slipped into a small bow, Iris murmured, "But of course, M'lord. I wouldn't dare miss it after you've been so welcoming."

Gesturing to the table, Lord Habi chuckled again, "Take a seat, my dear. And please take note of our honored guests, they are the princes of the Kou Empire."

"Ah yes, I remember hearing that you all would be arriving earlier on," Iris settled into her seat which was across from Kouen, "I do hope your travels went well,"

Acknowledging her with a slight nod and polite smile, Kouen's voice maintained the tone of formality he'd been keeping, "Thank you, Lady Iris. Our journey was uneventful, and we appreciate the warm welcome we've received from Lord Habi."

Settling back against his seat feeling that the pleasantries had been satisfied, Kouen allowed his brothers to maintain the majority of conversation as dinner progressed while he kept an eye on both Lord Habi and Lady Iris. Behind the polite words and courteous smiles, he could sense that something was being kept back by the two. While Lord Habi might act as a gracious host, he could see the occasional slip in the facade when the man's eyes would gain a rather odd glint once they landed on Lady Iris. Lady Iris, on the other hand, seemed to measure each word with far more care than any noble lady within the courts he'd met. There was a stiffness whenever she seemed to sense Lord Habi's eyes on her, it made Kouen's eyes narrow just a bit even if the moments were quick.

As the evening progressed into more neutral topics like culture and traditions, Kouen's attention became that much more focused especially as Iris started to allow his brothers and Lord Habi to speak the conversation entering a quiet period, Kouen took the opportunity to direct a question towards Lady Iris. He spoke with an air of thoughtfulness and curiosity, "Lady Iris, we've been discussing many interesting topics this evening. I've found myself curious, though, as you've added less and less to the conversation. May I ask where you come from? Perhaps why you've come here as well?"

There was a heavy silence as Kouen's question seemed to hang in the air, he watched Iris' eyes widen and dart about the table as everyone's attention focused on her. There was a slight quiver to her voice as she spoke, a spark of unease entered her eyes, "I come from a distant land, one with unique traditions and customs. My presence here... is to foster stronger ties between our nations and share the beauty of my homeland with the Goulon Empire."

With a booming laugh, Lord Habi reached over to lay a hand on Iris' shoulders as his eyes gained a possessive glint, "My dear Lady Iris is not only here to foster ties but to solidify a significant union. She is my future consort."

As the unease and tense atmosphere only grew from that statement, Kouen's eyebrow rose at that revelation and he shared a glance with Koumei. That was both a strategic move to keep her loyalty and restrict her from sharing any sensitive information, he could almost respect the move. The way Lady Iris stiffened underneath Lord Habi's touch and looked as if she wasn't breathing until his arm moved told him such a thing wasn't something she wanted. Acknowledging the statement with a curt nod, he found himself feeling bad for the woman even if there was little he could do for her at this point. As dinner continued, a heavy shadow lingered over it now that wouldn't dissipate.

Upon finally escaping Lord Habi's presence, Iris retreated to her chamber. Wishing to feel some air on her skin, she pushed open one of the windows to allow in a breeze and let her eyes trail across the night sky outside. Even more now than before, the room around her felt like a gilded cage which only left an increasingly bitter taste in her mouth. Breathing in the cool night air that trailed in, she leaned against the windowsill while reaching up to pull her hair free of the ornaments that had been placed in it. In the courtyard below, the world was dyed in silver tones and shadows with only the faintest flutter of lightning bugs darting about.

As the delicate pieces of jewelry fell to the floor with gentle clinks as they hit the cold marble floor, Iris' hair finally fell freely around her shoulders. Dropping her hands to the scarf still draped around her neck, she tugged it loose and let it fall to the floor as well. Even as she tried to let the cool night air cleanse her of the tension that had filled her as the night progressed, the heavy weight of the collar binding her to Lord Habi's will only seemed to grow heavier. As her eyes watched an owl fly across the night sky with a mouse clutched in its talons, she felt an ache curl through her chest at the reminder of just what had been lost years ago.

Pushing herself up as she forced those memories away, Iris' mind went to the Kou Princes. All three of them were highly intelligent even the youngest prince, the older two were cunning and observant. She had suspected immediately upon meeting them that their presence in the Goulon Empire wasn't solely about trade agreements or alliances. The Kou Empire had a reputation for expansion, and it was unlikely that the princes were here solely for diplomatic affairs. Not when all three of them carried metal vessels, she had picked out the magical signatures, foreign though they were, as soon as she'd entered the room. With the pieces slowly falling into place, she had to wonder how to play this.

Eyes going to the moon above, Iris' mind whirled as she contemplated the next steps that would need to be taken. Both to keep in line with Lord Habi's plans and her own, she would need to get close to the three princes though had to be careful. Meddling in the affairs of royalty had gotten her into this mess for all that it had saved another's life, she would need to tread far more carefully. But when the time is right, she would approach them and see about getting their help.

"Man, I am stuffed," Kouha slumped onto Kouen's bed with a groan, "I might have to stay in your room tonight, Entei,"

Slightly amused by that, Koumei's lips twitched as Kouen snorted, "That might be a good idea though, Mei," He straightened from his slouched position against the wall, "I think we should discuss our observations during dinner."

"Agreed," Koumei inclined his head as Kouen went to sit down and Kouha slowly sat up with a confused expression on his face.

"Observations? What was there to observe?" Kouha frowned at them as he crossed his arms, "I mean the food was pretty good. Not as good as home-"

Shaking his head with a low sigh, Koumei moved to take a seat in one of the empty chairs around the room. "So, you didn't notice Lady Iris's behavior around Lord Habi or how he seemed to direct the flow of conversation? It appears he's making sure she doesn't reveal any sensitive information. Did you see how she tensed up when he mentioned her purpose here?"

Head jerking towards him, Kouha's eyes narrowed, "I mean she did look a bit...not happy when he put his arm around her shoulder. But Kougyoku hates it when I do that to her, I didn't think much of it."

"That's because you normally do it when covered in blood, Ha," Koumei reminded his younger brother with an eye-roll, "As for Lady Iris...En?"

Looking towards Kouen, Koumei saw his elder brother frowning as he leaned back into his chair. Kouen spoke after a long moment as his gaze turned thoughtful, "Whether she is aware of it or not, he is using her as a pawn. Whether it is to control the flow of information or not, I am uncertain," He cupped his chin, "What I am certain of is that we need to be careful around her, an unknowing pawn or not, it is likely she'll accidentally pass along information to him."

"But...Entei," Kouha's lips pulled into a frown, "If she's unhappy here, is there something we can do to help her?"

Shaking his head, Koumei spoke feeling just a little bit bad for the woman currently being forced into this situation, "Do what, Ha? Much like with our sisters, we have no say in such things. All we can do is be cautious and vigilant to protect the interests of the Kou Empire."

"Besides," Kouen spoke as he gazed at Kouha who was looking increasingly distressed, "It is not as if she'll be in this position forever, Ha. With our plans, Lord Habi will not rule for much longer,"

"I...still thought," Kouha bit his bottom lip.

"Are you feeling alright, Ha? You normally don't feel anything towards a stranger much less a noblewoman," Kouen commented with a raised eyebrow.

"I-I'm fine!" Kouha snapped at him with a scowl and got up from the bed, "I'm going to bed,"

With a dark huff the boy stalked out of the room and slammed the door behind him, Koumei shook his head and stood with a low snort, "Seems that Ha might've developed a small crush on Lady Iris during our short meeting with her," He looked at Kouen as his older brother chuckled softly, "I'll keep an eye on him and ensure he doesn't jeopardize things for us."

"Good," Kouen crossed his arms with his lips slowly pulling into a scowl, "Though Mei, there was something far more off with those two," Koumei's back stiffened a bit, "Noticed it?"

Nodding as his lips pulled into a frown, Koumei's mind went back to how Lady Iris' expressions had shifted throughout the entire dinner and the way Lord Habi had looked at her, "She isn't just his pawn. She is a toy to him."

Distaste was clear on Kouen's face for a few precious moments before his brother could cover it up, he spoke in a carefully guarded tone, "Which is rather concerning," The look in his eyes was filled with intent, "While we still must be careful around Lady Iris...I believe it might behoove us to investigate her situation. Outside of Ha's view."

"But of course," Koumei's lips pulled into a slight smirk, "I almost thought that I might not be able to put my skills to proper use on this trip,"