Verdant Skies

"Iris," Koumei's voice came from below her.

Shifting slightly, Iris glanced down to see Koumei standing below the tree where she'd perched herself. Offering him a light smile, she waved while keeping a tight grip on her sketchpad, "Hey, Koumei. Back from those meetings you got dragged into."

"Yes-" Koumei shook his head with a slight frown, "Why are you in a tree? Isn't the studio ready?"

Despite wanting to roll her eyes, Iris shook her head, "Not every painting starts in a studio...and I just didn't feel like being inside," She didn't want to mention the way his staff had been whispering since the night of the party, "Besides," She offered him a soft smile, "It's peaceful up here and with the view I've got, I can get some of the best details."

Eyeing her with a raised eyebrow, Koumei crossed his arms, as he studied her "Peaceful..."

"Mhmm," Iris hummed lightly as her smile turned slightly mischievous, "You should try it sometime. Maybe it would help you relax after a really bad day,"

Mentally wincing at her phrasing, Iris relaxed when Koumei merely smiled and shook his head, "I'll take your word for it," He gestured to her sketchpad, "What are you drawing?"

"Just the garden," Iris carefully turned it to let Koumei see, "The flowers, the pathways, the way the light filters through the leaves..." She saw his eyes scanning the page with a look of awe and her chest warmed, "When I finally paint it, I might change around some details...add a few things, but I might not..."

Gaze softening as he raised his eyes from her work, Koumei's smile was warm, "Whatever you choose to do, I think it will look amazing."

Cheeks flushing, Iris pulled her sketchpad back up and shifted it around, "Thanks..."

"But would you mind taking a little break, Iris?" Koumei asked earning a small look of surprise, "According to the staff, you've been up there for a few hours now,"

Despite being highly reluctant to go back inside and deal with the gossiping staff, Iris supposed a break would be a good idea. Letting out a low sigh as she nodded, she held out her sketchpad to Koumei, "Hold this while I get down? I don't want to risk ruining my work."

Taking the sketchpad from her, Koumei waited seemingly intending to catch Iris if she fell which was touching though unnecessary. Landing neatly on her feet, she extended her hand and Koumei returned the sketchpad to her as he said, "Let's drink some tea together, I could use a cup and I've no doubt you could as well."

"I...would like one," Iris admitted as she walked with Koumei out of the garden and into the palace.

Ignoring the not-quite-so-hidden stares that were being shot toward her, Iris took a seat with Koumei at a small table that had been set up in the sitting room. Tucking her sketchpad beside her on the seat, she took the teacup Koumei was offering with a small smile. Taking a small sip, she glanced at him as he asked, "Did anything eventful happen while I was away?"

Swallowing a bit harshly, Iris noticed the intent look in Koumei's eyes and wondered if he'd somehow figured out that his staff had been making her uncomfortable. After a small moment of hesitation, she decided against voicing that question and instead said, "No...I spent most of the time up in the tree, capturing the essence of the garden."

Eyeing her for a long moment, Koumei released a low sigh and set down his teacup, "Iris...ever since I returned from my meetings, I could tell something was off. Especially as you'd told me this morning how much you were looking forward to actually using the studio now that it'd been fully set up," She internally winced, "So, I would appreciate it if you could tell me what happened between the time I left and now...please."

Seeing the concern in his eyes and knowing that they'd all agreed to communicate openly with one another, Iris released a low sigh as she realized she'd have to admit what the problem was. Setting her teacup down as well, she told Koumei, "I...ever since that night after the party," She saw Koumei's brow furrow, "Your staff have been giving me looks and whispering together when they think I'm not looking. And with my enhanced hearing, I...it isn't that hard to hear them," She felt her cheeks burn, "I dislike gossip even when it's partially true. I loathe rumors..."

"Iris..." Koumei gained a pained look on his face, "I'll speak with them-"

"You don't have to-" Iris tried to protest.

"Iris," Koumei's voice took on a stern tone, "You are a guest of this palace and someone I care for," She felt warmth rush through her as he reached out to grasp her hand, "I will not have you feeling uncomfortable,"

"I..." Iris realized Koumei likely wouldn't let this go, "I...Just don't be too hard on them...please, Koumei. They probably didn't realize how much it bugged me,"

"As the staff of a royal, they shouldn't be gossiping regardless, but...I will try not to be harsh," Koumei gave her a warm look, "They're somewhat lucky. Kouen would likely be very harsh on them," She gave him a curious look, "He doesn't tolerate anything less than perfection from his staff,"

Grimacing a bit, Iris admitted that she wasn't very surprised by that fact, "I...I'm not very surprised," Koumei eyed her in surprise, "From what I've been learning since coming to this world and even after meeting you all, Kouen has to have exacting standards for his staff otherwise he runs to risk of being betrayed or worse."

Offering her a warm look, Koumei smiled, "Yes, he does."

Feeling a bit curious, Iris asked Koumei, "How is Kouen doing? I haven't seen him since the party?"

"Father is running him ragged though that is the usual case now that he's home," Koumei released a low sigh, "It will likely be another few days before things calm down,"

Frowning at that, Iris hesitated before asking, "Is there any way that I can see him soon? Just to check up on him?"

"Funny you mention that," Koumei chuckled as he released her hand to grasp his teacup, "Kouen invited us to dinner at his palace tonight. Just the two of us, Kouha has run off with Judar and will likely be gone for a few days,"

Snorting softly as that tracked with what she'd been told before about how Kouha tended to act with Judar, Iris tilted her head, "So...what about your other siblings?"

Lips pursing, Koumei shook his head, "We don't all get together unless it involves a special event or Kouen's birthday," She blinked at that, "Though in a few weeks, those of us who are closer will be having dinner together. And if I remember correctly, it will be my turn to host meaning you'll be invited as you're staying with me."

"I don't want to intrude-" Iris stopped herself at Koumei's look and felt a small burst of amusement, "Kouen, Kouha, and you will insist on me being there, won't you?"

"And our siblings are already trying to inquire about you...they're not being subtle at all," Koumei's smile turned mischievous, "And that's without them knowing certain...information,"

Smiling back as her cheeks flushed, Iris giggled, "Well...I suppose that means I'll have to survive their attempts to sniff out answers," Koumei snorted and shook his head, "That dinner is going to be interesting."

"Yes, it will," Koumei confirmed with a grin.

Hearing the door open amidst the conversation he was having with Seishuu, Kouen turned his head and smiled at the sight of Koumei and Iris entering the dining room. Turning back to Seishuu, he told his gorgon-like household, "We'll continue speaking tomorrow, Seishuu."

"Of course, my king," Seishuu bowed lightly before moving to leave, "Prince Koumei, Lady Iris,"

Despite feeling a bolt of possessiveness surge at seeing Seishuu offer Iris a warm smile and get one back, Kouen pushed it back and moved to greet the two. A light smile curling at his lips, he addressed the two, "Thank you for joining me."

"It's no problem, En," Koumei inclined his head.

"It's nice to finally see you after the last couple of days," Iris eyed him with a concerned look, "How have you been since the party?"

"Busy," Kouen gestured to the table where his servants had been laying out their dinner, "Though as Koumei has no doubt told you, Father usually makes it his mission to run me ragged after any campaign," He saw her frown and quickly assured her, "I am well though. How are you settling in?"

Leading the two over to the table, Kouen pulled out Iris's seat for her and she offered him a small smile before sitting down as she replied, "It's been fairly calm because Kouha has run off with Judar for the moment," He pushed in her chair, "I haven't tried to explore anywhere just yet. I have a feeling it would be best to wait until Kouha or one of you are free to show me around."

"You aren't wrong," Koumei agreed as he sat down across from Iris and Kouen took his seat between them at the head of the table, "With how things are, it would be safer for you to wait,"

Nodding her head softly as the servants began to serve their food, Iris hummed low in her throat, "It's not like I don't have things to occupy my time either. With the sketch that I made today, I should be able to start painting tomorrow."

Raising an eyebrow, Kouen eyed Iris, "You haven't used the studio Koumei set up for you? He'd mentioned earlier today that you'd planned on breaking it in."

As Iris's expression fell and she looked away, Kouen's eyes narrowed as he realized something had happened since Koumei had left his palace this morning. Looking towards Koumei, he gave his younger brother a pointed look. Lips pursing, Koumei answered, "My staff have unfortunately made Iris uncomfortable."

Expression darkening as irritation and anger rushed through him, Kouen was startled when a hand touched his arm. Glancing to the side, he found Iris peering at him with a hesitant expression, "Kouen...Koumei already promised to take care of it, so please don't make that expression."

"Iris..." Kouen was surprised at how quickly his irritation and anger started to fizzle.

Lips pulling into a wry smile, Iris released a low sigh, "Honestly, it's not fully their fault for making me uncomfortable. They didn't know about my heightened senses, so they couldn't have known I would've heard them gossiping-"

"You have heightened senses?" Kouen asked while filing away the fact that Koumei's staff had been participating in the rumor mill going about.

Blinking slowly, Iris nodded as her cheeks flushed, "Er, yeah? While not to the same extent as I would from my dragon form, I can hear things better than most humans and my sense of smell is a lot better," She rubbed the back of her neck, "I mostly have them by accident..."

Raising an eyebrow, Kouen asked her with a slight smirk, "Accident? How can having them be an accident?"

Looking away from him as her cheeks turned a darker red, Iris muttered something under her breath. Koumei chuckled as he said, "We couldn't hear that Iris."

Huffing at them, Iris grumbled as she told them, "I realized thanks to meeting some weird travelers that could manipulate their magoi that we could do the same thing with our magic...only in a different way," She rubbed the back of her neck, "Once I managed to do it on a manageable basis, I used it to enhance my eyesight mostly because I was blind as a bat otherwise."

"Wait, you used to need glasses?" Koumei asked her as Kouen eyed Iris in surprise.

"Mhmm. I technically still do if my magic gets low enough, but it hasn't happened in a long time," Iris dropped her hand, "But since I started using this ability...I kind of can't turn it off,"

Snorting softly, Kouen held up his hands as Iris shot him a small glare, "It's not funny...I'm just a little amused."

Eyeing him for a long moment, Iris finally lost her glare, and a slow smile formed, "I suppose it is a bit funny..."

Chuckling as he shook his head, Kouen grabbed his glass of wine as Koumei chimed in, "It explains how Kouha hasn't managed to sneak up on you yet."

"You don't need enhanced senses to hear Kouha, Koumei," Iris replied rather dryly, "That boy couldn't sneak up on a deaf and blind dear if he could help it,"

Snorting softly, Kouen slowly relaxed into his seat as the dinner progressed and laughter slowly started to fill the room. Warmth flickered through his chest and he found himself increasingly reluctant for the night to end as their plates were cleared away, he asked the two, "Would you like to move this to my study upstairs?"

Eyes brightening, Iris nodded before pausing and glancing at Koumei, "I...would like to though Koumei..."

"I wouldn't mind it," Koumei shook his head in amusement.

Offering his younger brother a small smile, Kouen led the two up to his study. Iris immediately headed over to the immense bookshelves that decorated the walls. Letting out low sounds as she ran her fingers along the books and scrolls that decorated the shelves, she murmured, "So many...Are these the Torran Language?"

"Some," Kouen walked up behind her, "This one in particular would be a good place to start if you're interested,"

Reaching over her head, Kouen pulled a small scroll down off a higher shelf for her. Iris turned towards him and her eyes widened. Flush darkening her cheeks, she murmured, "I-uh-yes, I would like to, but I've never..."

"Good thing En's here then," Koumei chimed in from behind them, "He knows the Torran language better than anyone I've met,"

Glancing behind him, Kouen wanted to snort at the fact that Koumei had made himself comfortable at his desk. Inwardly shaking his head, he held the scroll out to Iris and she slowly took it. As she licked her lips, he followed the movement of her tongue before forcing himself to meet her eyes. Clearing her throat, she asked him almost shyly, "W-would you be willing to teach me?"

"Of course," Kouen moved back and gestured to one of the couches, "Let's take a seat,"

As they sat down, Kouen inwardly chuckled at how far away Iris had sat down from him. Reaching out, he pulled her to his side earning a soft squeak. She breathed out, "Kouen-"

"If I'm to teach you anything, I do have to see what you're attempting to learn," Kouen wrapped his arm around her waist while ignoring the soft snicker Koumei let out, "Now, let's start,"

As Iris opened the scroll, Kouen pointed out what each symbol meant and how to say the words. Slowly relaxing into his side, Iris eventually shifted into a more comfortable position with her legs curled up beside her as she leaned more against his shoulder. Not quite noticing it at first, he had started to rub her hip with his thumb though somehow she either didn't seem to notice it or didn't mind. Contentment burst through him at that thought, he sank a bit further into his seat and settled deeper into the lesson. There was a jolt through both of them when a servant entered to fresh the slowly dying fire in his fireplace, the realization that it was growing late hit him rather suddenly.

Glancing towards Koumei, Kouen was a little surprised to see the pile of paperwork he'd been dreading to deal with separated into neat piles. Knowing his younger brother, the piles were organized between time-sensitive things and what needed his attention. Pushing away the warmth that curled within his chest, he cleared his throat, "It's getting rather late," Iris glanced up at him and he was pleased to see reluctance there, "I know that Koumei and I both have duties to attend to tomorrow."

"Unfortunately," Koumei breathed out a low sigh as he stood.

Seeing guilt start to form in Iris's eyes, Kouen quickly asked her, "Seeing as we've only scratched the surface, Iris would you like to continue our lessons another time?" She blinked in surprise, "After all, it would be a shame if I only got to teach you a small amount."

"I...would like that," Iris smiled softly at him.

"I'll figure out the next time I'm available and either have Koumei tell you or send a message," Koumei informed her, "Now," He was highly reluctant to move away from Iris even if it was needed, "You both should head back to Koumei's palace. I have a few matters to attend to before getting some rest,"

Pulling away from Iris, Kouen stood before turning to offer her a hand up. Taking his hand, she stood and held out the scroll to him, "Thank you, Kouen. I appreciate your patience."

"It's my pleasure," Kouen took the scroll as he released her hand and began rolling it up.

Pausing as Iris kissed his cheek, Kouen met her eyes as she backed away with a soft blush. She murmured, "Goodnight, Kouen."

"Goodnight, Iris," Kouen replied with a light smile.

Offering Koumei a nod as his brother began leading Iris out, Kouen mentally sighed as he moved to put the scroll away. Tonight had only been a taste of what he longed for...a taste of what he'd been hoping to have since finally admitting his feelings.

As they walked from Kouen's palace to the carriage waiting outside for them, Koumei noticed Iris glancing at them though she didn't speak until after they'd gotten settled inside and were on their way back to his residence. She spoke softly, "Koumei...I just wanted to thank you for tonight. It was a lot of fun even with that little..." She grimaced a bit, "Upset at dinner."

Chuckling softly even as some of his earlier surprise came back, Koumei shook his head, "As I said earlier, En has exacting expectations for his staff and when it comes to those he cares for...he becomes quite defensive."

Blinking a bit, Iris flushed and looked away from him, "I didn't expect him to calm down so easily...Not when he looked so angry..."

"I was a little surprised as well, but when it comes to you," Koumei saw her look at him with surprise and smiled softly, "You do have a calming effect on him when it comes to certain circumstances. Though I doubt he will allow it to show in a public setting,"

"He has to keep up appearances...I know," Iris was blushing and Koumei found the sight endearing, "Um...Koumei, when do you think Kouen will start up those lessons?"

Chuckling softly, Koumei shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know, but I'll keep an ear out. I promise," He felt a bolt of warmth rush through him at the excited look on her face though frowned when she looked puzzled, "Something wrong?"

"I...you aren't bothered? By..." Iris trailed off.

Shaking his head as he realized what she meant, Koumei reached out and grasped her hand, "No. Despite what most would think in my position, I'm just happy you're content...that you're happy," He saw her eyes widen before softening, "And I know that we'll find something to do together as well. So I can't find it in me to be bothered," Iris slowly shifted her hand about until she could twine their fingers together, "So don't try to limit yourself, alright? If one of us feels like we aren't spending enough time with you, we'll say something."

"I...alright," Iris nodded and surprised him as she switched her seat to settle beside him, "Tomorrow when you come back...do you want to read together? I still have a lot of Astrology books to read and I'd love to hear your opinions on them,"

Chuckling as he nodded, Koumei murmured, "I'd like that."

Slowly her first few weeks in Kou passed by with Iris spending time with Kouen and Koumei whenever the two had time, she drifted between the pairs' palaces after Kouen decided to give her permission to be there when he wasn't. Paintings were started in the palaces of both princes, she worked on them and slowly warmed up to the staff that worked within each palace. Kouen's household members often stopped by to keep her company throughout the day with Seishuu and Shuu sticking around to share a meal with her. Finished pieces were put into a separate room, it was quickly being set up as a gallery though she often swapped around the placement of each painting depending on her mood and if something new had been finished.

When Kouha and Judar finally returned from wherever they'd gone off to, it was time for the dinner Koumei had warned Iris he'd be hosting. In preparation for the event, Koumei had gotten her permission to open the gallery up for his siblings to go through though she'd asked that her studio remain untouched. As Kouha had chosen to wait until dinner to return, she worked with some maids that Koumei had set her up with to put together an outfit. While it wasn't something that Kouha would probably choose for her, the dinner called for something more formal than her usual attire.

As she was a guest of Koumei's palace, Iris had been coaxed into choosing a flowing gown, the color reminiscent of a deep twilight sky. The fabric, adorned with subtle patterns resembling the constellations, shimmered as she moved. The dress accentuated her features without being overly extravagant. Despite the maids' protests, she had gone without the heavy jewelry they'd tried to push at her. Instead, she'd chosen a pair of simple bracelets and earrings with silver stars engraved in the metal. Hair tied in a loose bun, she felt a small hum of approval leave her as this would likely work for the evening Koumei had warned her about.

Leaving her room, Iris headed downstairs as the front door opened and Kouha shouted, "Mei! I'm back!"

"Kouha..." Koumei groaned in exasperation.

Pressing a hand over her mouth, Iris tried not to laugh at the fact Kouha had come straight from wherever he'd been running around. Dirt and dried blood coated the boy, he grinned impishly at Koumei pleased with himself. Staying at the top of the stairs, she shook her head softly as Kouha told his elder brother, "I almost forgot we were having dinner together. Luckily Reirei remembered...uh...where is everyone?"

As Kouha glanced around like a confused puppy, Iris had to bite back a laugh. Koumei pinched the bridge of his nose, "They haven't arrived yet. You have miraculously arrived early...for the first time."

"Awesome-" Kouha started to step forward.

"Kouha," Koumei's voice turned stern, "You're not tracking dirt through the entire palace. Go clean up, and for the love of the Rukh, change into something presentable,"

Pouting for all of a minute, Kouha started to crack up, "Fine, but only 'cause you look so damn frustrated," He started to turn before pausing with his eyes going wide, "Holy shit, Iris!" Iris blinked in surprise as her eyes met Kouha's, "You managed to look halfway decent without my help, nice."

Huffing as she crossed her arms, Iris gave him a pointed look, "My fashion sense isn't that bad, Kouha. Now if you want to see my paintings, you better get a move on."

Eyes going wide, Kouha turned tail and rushed off, "I'm going."

Shaking her head, Iris walked down the stairs fully, "That boy..."

"I'd apologize, but..." Koumei just shook his head earning a giggle from Iris, "You look beautiful by the way,"

Cheeks flushing at that, Iris looked away from Koumei who smirked at her reaction, "Thank you...the maids insisted that I wear something to represent that I was staying here."

"It suits you well," Koumei held out his arm and Iris took it.

"Did I just see Kouha rush off towards his palace?" Hakuei's voice came from the doorway and Iris looked forward to seeing the black-haired princess walking inside, "Honestly, I'm surprised he was so early, but..."

Snorting loudly, Koumei shook his head, "He'll be back later once he's gotten cleaned up and changed into something presentable. Iris threatened to ban him from seeing her artwork otherwise."

Blinking in slight surprise, Hakuei covered her mouth in amusement as a sulky boy about Kouha's age walked in behind her. The boy looked just like Hakuei only he bore a rather brutal-looking burn scar on his face. Realizing that must be Hakuryuu, she focused on Hakuei as the woman giggled, "Oh, dear. From that reaction, you must be a good artist."

Rubbed the back of her neck, Iris shook her head, "I wouldn't say that though I've been given those compliments pretty often," She flushed lightly, "And Kouha hasn't seen an intact piece of mine...only damaged ones."

"I think you're a wonderful artist," Koumei smiled at her.

"As do I," Kouen chuckled as she jumped and darted her head toward the door, "I assume by how quickly Kouha is running you're the cause, Iris,"

Cheeks puffing up, Iris nodded, "He was being annoying to Koumei, so I threatened to not let him see my artwork...the new stuff."

"Ah," Kouen smirked in amusement, "Well, it will be nice to eat dinner together without Kouha smelling of a forest and dead bandits for once," She stared at him in surprise, "He loves our family, but hates sitting through dinner with anyone,"

"Unless it's Kouen and Koumei," Hakuei giggled softly.

"He didn't seem to mind me...or Ashe..." Iris muttered feeling highly confused.

"That's because you two kept him entertained," Koumei looked at her in amusement before glancing towards the doorway, "Ah, Kougyoku, welcome,"

"Koumei," A soft voice came from the doorway.

Eyes meeting a set of soft pink ones that reminded her of Kouha's, Iris felt a small burst of amusement when the girl flushed and let out a squeak before covering her face. Koumei spoke in a light tone, "Since everyone save for Kouha is here though I doubt he'll be too long, why don't we head into the dining room and get settled?"

There were murmurs of agreement and Koumei led the way into the dining room, Iris found herself settled between Kouen and Koumei while their siblings were arranged around the table with a place left open for Kouha. As food was served and everyone started to dig in, Hakuei addressed Iris, "So Iris," She glanced at Hakuei, "From what little I've been able to pry out of Kouen and Koumei, you come from somewhere far away. What brought you to the Goulon Empire and now here?"

Swallowing as a bolt of nervousness swept through her, Iris almost stilled as she felt a warm hand settle on her thigh. She didn't even need to glance Kouen's way to know it was his. Slowly that nervousness eased away, she spoke as her chopsticks settled on the plate, "Before we ended up in the Goulon Empire, my companions and I ended up in a sticky situation that led us to traveling there rather unexpectedly. And due to the friends we made, we had to stick around if only to ensure everyone was okay," She smiled lightly, "Meeting Kouen, Koumei, and Kouha when they arrived in the Goulon Empire led me to gaining an interest in this place...I found myself wanting to explore especially as the passion that had been lacking in my art finally returned," She smiled softly, "So when Kouen offered me the chance to come here, I took him up on it."

"That's kind of sweet," Kougyoku murmured with a soft blush.

"What of your companions?" Hakuei asked earning a low sigh.

"Unlike me, they wished to travel elsewhere and perhaps find a new home themselves wherever they end up," Iris shrugged her shoulders lightly, "We all promised to meet up again eventually and I know our paths will cross again though when is up in the air," She took a sip of her wine, "But it was time for us to take our separate journeys,"

Smiling as she felt Kouen squeeze her thigh before he pulled his hand away, Iris looked at Hakuei as the woman asked, "If you don't mind me asking, what happened? To cause you to leave your former home, I mean. From what I've heard, you were a noble back there."

Inwardly wincing at the lie, Iris let out a low sigh, "My companions and I were...dragged into a bad situation. Just as we were finally getting a handle on things, they spiraled," She tried to figure out a way to explain something that even she didn't understand to this day only to come up empty, "During those last few hours, I can't quite recall everything. All I truly know is that we were sent away and ended up in the Goulon Empire not long after. There we had to completely restart our lives."

"Oh my..." Hakuei covered her mouth.

There was a low sound from Hakuryuu, a flash of something passed through his eyes too quickly for Iris to catch. Kougyoku looked at Iris in horror. Kouen spoke as Iris picked her chopsticks up again, "Let's speak of something else, shall we?"

As the conversation moved on, Iris felt Hakuei glance at her. She tried to ignore it and was very glad when Kouha arrived as it brought a welcome break in the tension that had followed her words.

Walking beside Iris as they entered the gallery, Kouen watched as his siblings began looking around in awe. Pride began to burn in his chest as even Hakuryuu's eyes widened and the boy wandered about seemingly trying to take in everything at once, he smirked as Kouha began to badger Iris about a few of her paintings. As she wandered over to answer his questions, Kougyoku joined in and his other siblings seemed to wander over. Koumei spoke from beside him, "She's content...looking at her like this, she's happy."

"That she is," Kouen nodded as a small smile curled across his lips.

The warmth and pride in Kouen's chest only seemed to grow as Iris shared her passion with his siblings. There was a lightness about her, the way she smiled now and moved about made him feel content even though she wasn't focused on him. As Kouha bounced about Iris, the boy exclaimed, "These look awesome, Iris."

Despite usually being so timid, Kougyoku seemed to have been infected with Kouha's exuberance as she nodded excitedly, "They do...I didn't know that paintings could look so...pretty? I wish I could do something like this."

Lips pulling into a warm smile, Iris reached out to touch Kougyoku's shoulder, "If you want, I could try teaching you. I've never really tried before to teach another person to paint, but I could give it a shot if you want to learn."

"Really?" Kougyoku looked at Iris with wide eyes before beaming as the dragon-witch nodded, "I-thank you!"

"But you never offered to teach me to paint," Kouha pouted at Iris as he hugged her around the waist, "That isn't fair,"

"You never asked," Iris pointed out only making Kouha's pout grow, "If you want to learn and are willing to listen, I could teach you,"

"Okay!" Kouha agreed quickly as Kouen bit back the urge to snort.

With how quickly the boy usually gave up on anything that didn't involve fashion or fighting, Kouen didn't see the lessons lasting long. He shared an amused look with Koumei before glancing at Hakuei as his sister-turned-cousin drifted over with a contemplative look on her face. Speaking in a low tone, she murmured, "I never quite expected this when you first brought Iris home," He kept his face carefully blank, "While I do have some suspicions...I suppose she has my approval...for the moment."

Letting out a soft snort, Kouen reminded Hakuei, "Yours isn't the approval I want or need."

"I'm aware," Hakuei merely smiled at him, "So...how long have you had feelings for her?"

Had he been drinking anything, Kouen would've choked on it. Giving Hakuei a look as he tried to work out how she'd figured it out, he frowned deeply, "I don't know what you're talking about."

Feeling eyes on him, Kouen glanced toward Iris and saw her peering at him. Surprise and concern filled her eyes, he merely offered her a nod before focusing on Hakuei as the woman replied, "Kouen, I know you well enough to know something has changed. And with tonight, I can say for certain that Iris has caused it. And with Paimon saying she doesn't hold a Djinn and Judar not mentioning her being a magician, I can only assume you have feelings for her."

Mentally cursing at the fact he hadn't been careful enough, Kouen supposed it was just as well that Hakuei noticed now rather than later. Rather than answer her at that moment, he gestured for her to follow him. Exiting the gallery, Kouen walked with Koumei and Hakuei until they were standing in the garden. Arms crossing, he narrowed his eyes at her, "Hakuei, I won't deny it," Hakuei looked a bit surprised by the admittance, "But do not let that information find its way further than you."

Holding up her hands, Hakuei shook her head, "That wasn't my intention, Kouen. I was merely curious and wished to know..." She glanced at Koumei, "Though this does prompt me to ask..." She hesitated for a moment, "How does it work? You both have feelings for her."

"We have agreed to figure things out as they come along," Koumei answered after a long moment, "We both might have feelings for Iris, but she also has feelings for us...both of us,"

"Oh dear," Hakuei's cheeks turned red and she quickly covered her face with Paimon's fan, "That's...Oh, my,"

At the soft giggle, Kouen rolled his eyes, "Any more questions?"

"Only one," Hakuei cleared her throat and gave them both a serious look, "Whatever...relationship that spawns from this...what do you intend to do?" She looked at Kouen, "Father will not allow you to take anyone besides a Princess as your queen...unless they are a fellow Dungeon Capturer. Do you intend for Iris to be-"

"We have not figured anything out that far," Kouen cut her off as a small bolt of fury raced through him as he figured out what she intended to ask, "As Koumei told you during the party, Iris is not and will never be a concubine,"

"Not even if she ends up baring a child of yours...or Koumei's?" Hakuei glanced between them.

Almost freezing, Kouen was grateful when Koumei spoke as his mind had completely frozen at the thought of Iris possibly carrying his future children, "What happens will, Hakuei. But at no point will Iris ever be a concubine. That is something we will both remain firm on," Koumei's eyes narrowed at Hakuei, "We will figure things out. Now unless you have other questions, I suggest we head inside and enjoy the remainder of the evening."

Putting her fan away, Hakuei swallowed heavily, "I...I apologize if I've overstepped," She looked between them for a few moments, "Please understand that it wasn't my attention, I just...you two are family. Knowing that you both far for someone to such an extent...it scares me even if I'm gladdened to see it," She sighed heavily, "So please understand my wish to caution you."

Gaze softening as he sighed, Kouen assured her, "We appreciate it, Hakuei. Though we are already navigating this carefully due to reasons we will not state," He saw Hakuei's puzzled look, "We'll take more care if only to ensure you aren't so worried."

"With this unique situation, it's no surprise that you found it kind of scary," Koumei added with a smile, "It wasn't easy for either of us to grasp, but we managed it. We're committed to ensuring it works out for the best,"

Letting out a soft laugh, Hakuei shook her head, "I'll hold you to that."

"But let's head inside, I have a feeling Judar's going to show up soon...he usually does," Koumei mock-scowled, "And I doubt Iris wants to corral Kouha and Judar while they're trying to gang up on Kougyoku,"

With that, they headed back inside to join the others. The tension from the earlier conversation seemed to have dissipated, and the atmosphere became more relaxed as they continued to enjoy the evening together.

As the door closed behind everyone save for Kouen, they traveled up to the upstairs sitting room though Iris abandoned Koumei and Kouen long enough to change out of her dress. Once she was in more comfortable clothes, she joined the two and slipped in between them on the plush couch after Kouen waved her over. A small smile forming as an arm slipped around her waist and another curled around her neck, she leaned back as Koumei chuckled, "Tonight went fairly well even after Judar showed up."

"Next time he even tries to go near my studio without permission, I'm going to dye him pink," Iris muttered earning a pair of amused glances, "Thank the above that Kougyoku noticed he was trying to go inside, I didn't need anyone going near my current project right now,"

Letting out a low laugh, Koumei asked her, "Were you afraid he'd ruin it?"

"A bit," Iris's cheeks flushed, "More, I didn't want him tracking wet paint through your palace. With how much black and red I've got on the canvas right now, I don't want to hear the staff bitch about how difficult it is to clean up,"

"Point taken," Koumei chuckled, "Though what are you making? You didn't show me the sketch this time,"

Taking the wine glass Kouen offered her, Iris hummed lightly, "A dragon...specifically a Hungarian horntail," Koumei eyed her in surprise while Kouen made a noise of interest, "Depending on how things go as I'm working, I might just paint out a scene from my fourth year," She took a sip of her wine, "So...you two walked off with Hakuei earlier...after she managed to figure out Kouen had feelings for me..."

Clearing his throat, Kouen set down his wine glass as Iris glanced at him, "She wanted information. Specifically, she wished to know what exactly our relationship is seeing as she's figured out that Koumei and I both have feelings for you," She stared at him with wide eyes, "And she wished to figure out what exactly our intentions were for you."

"Intentions...?" Iris's head tilted as confusion swept through her.

Arm tightening around her waist, Koumei's tone was gentle as he began to explain, "Hakuei was concerned about the potential complications given our positions," Iris frowned at that as she'd never considered the possibility of complicating things for Koumei and Kouen, "She mentioned the possibility of a relationship evolving and what that might mean in the context of our titles and Father's expectations. She was asking if we had considered making you a concubine."

Dread spiked through her, Iris frowned heavily as she glanced between the two feeling uneasy. The word had been tossed around by the staff only to die off after Koumei's talk with them. Occasionally it popped up now and again only to quickly be shushed, she knew what it meant, but didn't like knowing that people thought she was supposed to be one. Arm tightening around her shoulders, Kouen shook his head, "We made it clear to Hakuei that you will never be a concubine. While nothing has been fully decided between us, Koumei and I are firm on that decision," She let out a sigh of relief and slumped against them, "Iris...were you worried?"

Hesitating for a moment, Iris nodded, "I...Not from you two," She quickly assured them earning a pair of quizzical looks, "I..." She didn't want to get anyone in trouble, "Part of what made me so uncomfortable in the beginning was people tossing that word around..." she saw understanding flash through their eyes, "But...Part of me is kind of confused..."

"About what?" Koumei asked her.

Biting her bottom lip, Iris tried to figure out the best way to word her question, "I...When they talked about...concubines...it was said in a way that meant you had others..." She looked between them, "I...do you?"

There was a deep sigh from Kouen, he pinched the bridge of his nose, "Iris, we promised to be honest with one another...so we will," He looked at her for a long moment, "As you know, the Kou empire has conquered a lot of countries and with it, we gain what many will call spoils of war," She felt a small bolt of dread, "Our father decides what happens with those spoils. And oftentimes, he is gifted things by other nations in hopes of keeping us from going after them."

"So...your father gives you..." Iris felt a bit sick.

"Yes though trust us when we say we're not interested," Koumei grimaced deeply, "Even before meeting you, we found little interest in whichever concubine our Father decided to 'gift' us. We ensure they're taken care of but otherwise avoid them. It's a tradition, but not one we take pleasure in. We prioritize our duties and responsibilities to the empire over personal affairs dictated by our father,"

Silently absorbing their words, Iris felt a mixture of emotions curl through her. Disgust and sadness were the big ones, they weren't directed at Koumei and Kouen though which was a little surprising. She felt relieved knowing that their involvement with concubines was a duty rather than a choice they embraced. Part of her felt some disbelief, she knew that if Ron were here, he'd be accusing the two of lying. But looking in their eyes, she could see that they were being honest. Breathing out slowly, she murmured, "It's...I don't want to say that I understand. After all, I don't truly understand thanks to growing up in a different world where while certain things like that were practiced...it wasn't around where I grew up," She ran a hand through her hair, "But...I'm going to trust you both...try to be understanding even if I don't like the idea of it."

Gaze softening as relief filled his eyes, Kouen pressed a gentle kiss to her temple, "Thank you, Iris. Even if Hakuei hadn't brought it up, we would have said something soon enough," she looked at him in surprise, "With the rumors that have been popping up, I was sure something would've prompted you to speak to us soon enough. And if not, it was something we needed to talk about."

Shoulders relaxing, Iris breathed out a low sigh and glanced toward Koumei as he began tracing gentle patterns along her arm. For once, she was wearing a short-sleeve shirt allowing both Kouen and Koumei to see the scars and marks littering her arms. Koumei spoke as she peered at him, "Not to mention, we enjoy having your perspective on things. It gives us a fresh view," She shivered as he traced along a particularly deep scar, "And with us trying to form a relationship built on trust...on open communication, we have to have these conversations."

Still feeling that mixture of emotions, Iris felt gratitude mixed in, "I'm glad...that we're talking about this stuff..."

All three of them looked towards the door when a knock sounded, Kouen made a low noise of irritation in the back of his throat. Releasing his grip on her waist as Kouen removed his arm, Koumei stood and moved towards the door just another knock sounded. He opened it to reveal a servant standing there who bowed deeply to Kouemi, "M'lord, a messenger has arrived from the palace. The Emperor is requesting that you come to the palace immediately. Prince Kouen as well."

Iris felt Kouen stiffen and gave him a look of concern. Koumei spoke sternly to the servant, "See to it that a carriage is readied and inform the messenger that we will be leaving immediately."

"Yes, M'lord," The servant bowed before turning and leaving.

Closing the door as he stepped back, Koumei turned with a frown on his face, "What could Father want this late? He wouldn't be calling to inform us of wanting to begin planning a new campaign just yet."

"No which means something has happened since we left the palace earlier today," Kouen cupped his chin, "Though what it could be, I do not know,"

Looking between Kouen and Koumei, Iris asked them, "It's serious though...if he's calling you in so late, right?"

"Yes," Kouen looked towards her and released a low sigh, "It seems we'll have to cut tonight short. Iris-"

"Go deal with your father," Iris offered him a warm smile, "I should go get some rest. After all, Kougyoku and Kouha both are supposed to be coming over in the morning for their first lesson,"

Standing after she placed her wine glass down, Iris turned to press a kiss to Kouen's cheek before moving to do the same with Koumei. Koumei caught her around the waist earning a surprised look, "Don't wait up for me, Iris. With Father, we never know how long the actual meetings take."

"I wasn't-" Iris flushed at his pointed look, "Alright, I won't," He continued to give her that same look, "Koumei, I promise that I'm not going to wait up,"

After another few moments, Koumei finally released a low sigh, "Thank you," He pressed a kiss to her cheek and she flushed lightly, "While it's nice to come home to someone waiting up for me, I dislike seeing how tired you are the next day. And with Kouha coming around tomorrow, you'll need all the rest you can get. He can and will be a terror."

"I'm well aware," Iris had seen Kouha at his worst while running around with him during their time together before the final clash in Astoria.

After another moment, Koumei released her, "We've got to go. I'll see you in the morning."

Nodding to him, Iris left the room and headed to her bedroom. Part of her wanted to break the promise and stay up to wait for Koumei, she had become fond of the times when she'd wake up either in his arms or just after. His warmth always seemed to linger even hours after he'd left her, she found herself wishing he'd stayed just a bit longer. Mentally scolding herself, she began to ready herself for bed. As much as she may wish to break that promise, Kouha coming over tomorrow was bound to wear her out and that was not something she wished to deal with when already tired.