Verdant Skies

As her brush glided across the canvas, Iris felt herself finally begin to lose some of the tension that had been filling her since this morning. Vivid hues drifted across the canvas, a dragon taking shape with each new stroke. The vibrant colors of the dragon seemed to come to life on the canvas, its form dancing and swirling with each meticulous stroke of Iris's brush. The rhythmic sound of the bristles against the textured surface echoed in the room, a soothing melody that drowned out the noise from the outside world. Lost in the creative process, Iris found herself immersed in the world she was bringing to life. The dragon's scales shimmered with iridescence, capturing the essence of a creature born from the depths of imagination. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a warm glow over the room, the painting seemed to gain a magical quality.

However any sense of tranquility was lost as a loud noise erupted outside her studio, Iris's brow furrowed as she slowly set down her paintbrush. As the noise increased and seemed to grow in pitch, she slowly moved away from her half-finished dragon doubting that Koumei and Kouen had returned from the palace as neither made that much noise on a good day. Hands snapping up a clean cloth, she began to rub at the paint coating her fingers while carefully nudging open the door to her studio.

As the door creaked open, Iris peered into the main hall, trying to locate the source of the commotion. It didn't take her long as the loud voices echoed from the entryway and her eyes found the source. A group of elegantly dressed women, adorned in vibrant silks and jewels, were standing in the foyer. Across from them with a hand on his hip and a slight frown, Koumei's steward was giving the group a look that she hadn't seen since the first few days she'd been there. There was a soft shriek that made her jerk back, one of the women pointed a ring-coated finger at her as she shrieked, "Who is she?" The woman whined, "It's not fair that we're not allowed to be here, and she gets to roam around like she owns the place!"

Jaw almost dropping at that, Iris shared a glance with the steward whose eyes narrowed at the women, "That is Lady Iris, a guest of Lord Koumei. She is here with his permission, unlike you."

The women exchanged a group of glances with jealousy filling their eyes. One of them, with an air of defiance, retorted, "Well, we want to see Lord Koumei too! Why does she get special treatment?"

Iris, still standing in the doorway of her studio, felt a sense of bewilderment and confusion. She wasn't sure why these elegantly dressed women were so upset, and the revelation that she was the cause of their ire left her momentarily speechless. As the argument between the elegantly dressed woman and the steward escalated, she observed the scene with a mix of confusion and disbelief. While part of her was tempted to intervene, she was uncertain if it was her place. Just as the tension in the air reached its peak, the grand doors of the residence swung open. In walked Kouen and Koumei, their expressions transitioning from a focused discussion to utter surprise as they took in the scene unfolding before them. The steward, noticing the arrival of the princes, straightened his posture and offered a respectful bow. "Your Highnesses, welcome back. We have an unexpect-"

"Prince Koumei!" One of the women shrieked as she tore out of the group and darted towards Koumei, "Oh, it's been so-"

There was a momentary pause as Koumei raised a hand to halt her, his expression stern. "This is not appropriate. You should not be here. Did I not order you all to stay away from my personal residence?"

Realizing that those elegantly dressed women were his concubines, Iris watched the scene unfold with a mixture of surprise and curiosity. The concubine who had approached Koumei recoiled, her enthusiasm deflating as she faced his stern gaze. There was a soft chuckle from Kouen, he crossed his arms with an amused smile, "Looks like you have quite the fan club, Koumei. They couldn't resist paying a visit."

Koumei sighed, clearly irritated by the situation. "This is not the time or place for such matters," The look he gifted those women was something Iris never wished to be directed at her, "Return to your residence now."

The concubines, now realizing the gravity of their actions, exchanged uneasy glances. One of them attempted to salvage the situation, "Lord Koumei, we only wanted to see you. We didn't mean to cause any trouble."

Ignoring them as he began to walk past, Koumei's gaze found Iris's and he gained an apologetic expression, "Lady Iris," She jolted at the formal tone that had been absent since that party, "I apologize if these women caused you any inconvenience."

As his eyes shifted to glance towards the women still gathered within the main hall, Iris realized why he'd taken on a formal tone. Clearing her throat, she offered him a light smile and inclined her head, "It's of no consequence, Your Highness," She saw the displeasure in his gaze, "Would you like to see my latest painting? While it's not finished, I'm sure you'll enjoy it."

"I would," A slight smile formed on his lips.

"You're welcome as well, Prince Kouen," Iris directed at Kouen earning a slight smirk.

Chuckling as he stepped past the concubines as well, Kouen inclined his head, "I'd love to see your work."

As Koumei and Kouen followed Iris into her studio, the concubines hesitated for a moment, exchanging glances. The steward, however, gestured for them to leave, maintaining a composed demeanor. Reluctantly, the concubines departed, realizing they had overstayed their welcome. In the studio, Iris gestured towards her latest painting, which depicted a magnificent dragon with vibrant, iridescent scales. Koumei and Kouen approached their eyes studying the details of the artwork. Kouen stepped closer to the painting with an awed expression on his face, "It looks amazing...different from the others you've made."

"I was inspired..." Iris trailed off as Koumei's arms wrapped around her waist, "Koumei?"

Grip loose enough that she could easily pull away, Koumei whispered in her ear, "I am sorry for them, Iris. If I had it my way, they never would have found their way here."

Rather than pull away as her initial response might've been, Iris merely leaned back against her chest, "It was unexpected, but...I'm not mad. As you've said before, it's part of your culture," She turned her head to look at him, "I do appreciate that you've been keeping them away."

Smiling softly at her, Koumei's grip tightened slightly, conveying a silent assurance, "I'm glad you understand, Iris. I value the tranquility you bring to this space."

"While I would love for this moment to last, we should discuss what happened during our meeting," Kouen turned away from the dragon and Iris straightened, "Have you eaten, Iris?" She flushed slightly and looked away from him earning a low chuckle as Koumei let out an exasperated sigh, "You got too wrapped up in your project, didn't you?"

Cheeks flushing, Iris crossed her arms as she muttered, "I can't help it sometimes. Time disappears when I'm working on my projects."

Chuckling as he walked over, Kouen cupped Iris's cheek and she was gently pulled to look at him, "I'm curious now..." She flushed at the fact they were almost boxing her in, "What other things make time disappear for you?"

There was something about Kouen's voice, the tone he used, and the way his eyes seemed to darken that made Iris realize he wasn't asking about her more mundane activities. Cheeks darkening as her mind raced, she struggled to figure out just what to say. A low sound left Koumei as his arms tightened even further, "En," He used the same tone as Kouen, "Is now really the time?"

Gaze remaining fixed on her, Kouen's eyes were darkening with each passing moment. The air in the studio seemed to thicken with a subtle tension. Caught between the probing eyes of Kouen and the protective hold of Koumei, she felt the heat growing in her cheeks increase with each passing moment. Voice a velvet whisper, Kouen's hold on her chin tightened for a brief moment, "I'm only curious and she doesn't have to answer the question though," A smirk wove its way across his face, "I think you do, don't you, Iris?"

Swallowing harshly as she struggled to come up with anything to say, Iris started to stammer, "Well, um, there are many things that capture my attention like painting, reading, and, uh, sometimes losing myself in a good conversation."

Koumei's arms around her tightened slightly, a subtle gesture of reassurance. Kouen's smirk persisted, and he released her chin, taking a step back. Amusement filled his eyes as they lightened, the tone he spoke with was light, "Fair enough," He eyed her as she practically slumped against Koumei, "I won't pry further for the moment," She swallowed at that and his smirk grew, "For now," He gained a serious expression, "We should go eat. As none of us have eaten in the last few hours, we need to. Once we do, we'll begin discussing what was discussed during the meeting."

Iris nodded, grateful for the shift in focus.

In the aftermath of the concubines' unexpected visit, a palpable tension settled over Koumei's palace like a heavy shroud. The incident had left an indelible mark, disrupting the carefully cultivated tranquility that Koumei had endeavored to maintain. While apologies were offered and a semblance of normalcy attempted, an undercurrent of unease lingered in the air. Amidst the sprawling palace grounds, figures moved with a stealth that betrayed their intent. Koumei's keen-eyed staff, dedicated to the security of the prince and his guests, noticed the subtle disturbances. Shadows flickered in the corners of courtyards, and the night seemed to harbor more than just its usual mysteries.

Kouen, in his imposing residence adjacent to Koumei's, sensed the disturbance in the delicate balance of power. A man of calculated actions and strategic thinking, he couldn't dismiss the notion that the recent intrusion might not be an isolated incident. His keen intellect perceived the potential threat, and a flicker of concern touched the depths of his usually composed demeanor. Meanwhile, Iris, nestled in her studio, found herself attuned to the vibrations of the palace. The strokes of her brush on the canvas echoed the unease that permeated the very walls around her. Unseen eyes seemed to watch, and a disconcerting awareness settled in her bones.

As night fell, the lurking figures became more pronounced. Koumei, Iris, and Kouen independently caught glimpses of the clandestine movements. The dance of shadows became a sinister prelude to a greater, undisclosed threat. The trio, bound by a complex web of relationships and shared concerns, found themselves unknowingly connected by the invisible thread of impending danger. The unspoken tension between them, born of the recent disturbance and exacerbated by the clandestine observers, created an atmosphere charged with uncertainty.

There was a flicker of irritation that seemed to thread through him in the days that followed his concubines' impromptu visit, Koumei seemed to be more on edge than usual. The incident had disrupted the peaceful atmosphere he had carefully cultivated in his residence. Despite the apology he offered Iris, there was an underlying tension that lingered. He found himself replaying the events in his mind, questioning if there was more he could have done to prevent the intrusion. In the quiet moments when he was alone, he pondered over the complexities of his position. The expectations placed upon him as a prince and the intricacies of managing his personal life, especially when it intersected with the political dynamics of the Kou Empire. Iris's presence, while a source of solace, also introduced an element of unpredictability into his carefully orchestrated world.

One evening, as the sun cast long shadows across the palace grounds, Koumei sought refuge in Iris's studio. The soft strokes of her brush against the canvas created a rhythm that soothed his restless mind. He watched her work, appreciating the dedication she poured into her art. The dragon she painted seemed to carry a weight, its scales holding the reflections of both the real and imaginary worlds. Breaking the silence within her studio after a long moment, he spoke softly, "Iris."

Eyes and smile soft, Iris set down her paintbrush as she turned towards him. There was a gleam of understanding in her eyes, a sign of the unspoken communication between them had grown stronger in the wake of the recent disturbance. She spoke in an equally soft voice, "Koumei, you're back early today."

"I...finished things early," Koumei slowly moved to stand beside her, "Iris..." She gazed at him curiously, "I'm sorry," his usually composed demeanor revealing a hint of vulnerability, "I never intended for my personal matters to disrupt your peace. I value the tranquility you bring to this space, and I want you to feel at ease here,"

Shaking her head, the odd braid Iris wore shifting about with the movement, "Koumei, it's okay," The smile she wore was warm and gentle, "I understand that these things happen, and I appreciate the effort you make to keep your promises," A teasing glint entered her gaze, "I half expected Kouha to burst in here like Kouen and you have been promising me," A low chuckle left him, "Besides, it's not like you can control every aspect of your life, especially when it comes to your concubines."

Koumei's gaze lingered on Iris, a mixture of gratitude and guilt swirling within him. Her forgiving nature and understanding demeanor were like a soothing balm to his troubled thoughts. The weight of responsibility and the clash of his personal and public life weighed heavily on him, and Iris's presence provided a grounding force. The brief respite of laughter was a welcome relief, and he met her warm smile with a small one of his own. Yet, behind the veil of amusement, a lingering sense of guilt tugged at him. "Iris, I appreciate your understanding," he began, choosing his words carefully, "But I can't help but feel responsible for the disruption."

Iris's expression softened, her eyes reflecting a deep understanding. "Koumei, you don't need to apologize. I knew what I signed up for when I decided to stay here...Not about the concubines, but I knew about the other stuff," she reassured him, her hand gently resting on his arm, "So don't apologize."

His gaze dropped to where her hand touched him, and Koumei felt a surge of warmth. "Even so," he continued, "I can't shake the feeling that I should have done more to protect your peace."

Her fingers gently squeezed his arm in a comforting gesture. "You're doing your best, Koumei. There are things beyond our control," Iris spoke with a gentle wisdom that resonated with him. "Besides, I've come to appreciate the unpredictable aspects of life here."

Koumei nodded, absorbing her words. A moment of silence hung between them, the soft sounds of her studio offering a semblance of serenity. Breaking the quiet, Koumei took a deep breath before addressing the unspoken thought that had been forming in his mind, "Iris, I've been considering a different arrangement—one that might offer you more stability and privacy."

Eyeing him with a slight frown even as her eyes gained a curious gleam, Iris murmured, "What do you mean, Koumei?"

His eyes met hers, and he spoke with sincerity, "What if you became a guest in Kouen's residence?"

Blinking at him, Iris's eyes were filled with surprise and hurt, "Kouen's...residence? But why? I'm comfortable here, Koumei."

Swallowing a bit harshly, Koumei began to explain, "Kouen's palace is more secure, and he has a staff dedicated to ensuring privacy. It would provide you with a peaceful environment to focus on your art without the occasional disturbances. You would still have the freedom to create, and we could spend time together without the worry of unforeseen interruptions. I would just have to do as En does now."

Drawing back from him, Iris shook her head, "I...Koumei, I appreciate your concern. I really do," The look on her face sent a pang through his chest, "But leaving here just because I'm a little uncomfortable? Because of those women...I..." She shook her head again with a deep frown curling at her lips, "For the first time in a long time, I feel comfortable with where I am..."

Heart sinking as he witnessed the conflict in her eyes, Koumei had not anticipated the emotional weight this suggestion would carry for her. Taking a step closer, he reached for her hands as that vulnerable look in her eye touched something deep in his chest. Ignoring the paint now smearing his skin, he gently twined their fingers together, "Iris, it's not just about a momentary discomfort. I want to ensure your safety and peace of mind. Recent events have made me realize that this residence might not be as secure as I thought. I can't bear the thought of something happening to you because of my position."

Iris looked up at him, and he could see the turmoil in her gaze, "Koumei, the idea of leaving, of uprooting everything because of those women... it feels like I'm letting them win. Like I'm giving in to their presence."

Koumei squeezed her hands gently, his eyes reflecting a mixture of understanding and determination, "Iris, this is not about conceding to anyone. It's about ensuring your safety and well-being," He saw a flicker of confusion, "Gyokuen is the main problem, Iris," She breathed in sharply, "Gyokuen is not someone to underestimate, and I want to protect you from any potential harm. Kouen's residence offers an extra layer of security, and it doesn't mean you're losing anything. We can still spend time together, and you can focus on your art without worry."

Biting her bottom lip, Iris looked torn, "I...I just...I've found a sense of belonging here, Koumei. I don't want to lose that."

Gaze softening, Koumei spoke softly, "I don't want you to feel like you're losing anything, Iris. We can find a way to make this transition as smooth as possible. Your comfort and happiness are my priorities," He hesitated for a long moment as the look on her face only made his guilt worsen, "But if staying here is what you truly want, we'll work on enhancing the security measures. I just need you to understand the potential risks we face."

Iris sighed, a mixture of emotions playing across her face. "Koumei, I know you're doing this because you care about me. And I appreciate that. But leaving here... it feels like I'm losing a part of what I've gained in coming here with Kouen and you."

Expression softening as he continued to hold her hands gently, Koumei tried to convey the emotions he felt, "I don't want you to feel uprooted, Iris. Your comfort and happiness are my priorities. We'll figure out a solution together, one that allows you to stay here without compromising your safety. I just need you to trust me in this."

Iris withdrew slightly, her hands slipping from Koumei's grasp. The air between them held a delicate tension, thick with unspoken thoughts and emotions. As Koumei observed her, he recognized the turmoil in her eyes, a conflict between the comfort she found in the present and the concern for her safety. Silence stretched, broken only by the faint sounds of the outside world filtering through the studio. Koumei respected Iris's need to process, knowing that decisions of this magnitude required time and careful consideration. Still, the weight of responsibility pressed on him, and he wondered how the delicate balance between personal desires and the demands of their positions would play out. When she finally spoke, her voice soft but firm, "Koumei, I truly appreciate your concern, truly. And I do trust you. I just need some space to process everything. It's not about doubting you or our connection. It's about finding a balance between what I've gained here and the need for security."

Koumei nodded, his understanding unwavering. "I respect that, Iris. Your comfort and safety are paramount. I'll give you the space you need, but know that I'm here whenever you're ready to talk."

With a soft smile, Iris acknowledged his words. "I appreciate that, Koumei. I need to sort through my thoughts, but I'm grateful for your understanding."

Giving her one final smile, Koumei retreated from Iris's studio having a feeling she would prefer to be alone right now. As he began heading towards the stairs, a slight pang hit his chest as the realization that she might indeed end up moving into Kouen's palace hit him. The late-night conversations in this very study, the comforting routine of finding her asleep in the downstairs sitting room—these fragments of shared moments seemed to hang in the air, tangible yet slipping away like elusive threads. Koumei couldn't ignore the void that would be left behind if Iris were to move into Kouen's palace.

The rhythmic tapping on the door drew Kouen's focus away from the scrolls and documents spread across his desk. With a composed demeanor, he looked up, his gaze fixated on the entrance to his study. Curiosity curled within him even as he called out, "Enter!"

The door creaked open, revealing Koumei's figure in the doorway. The ambient light cast a subtle glow on Koumei's face, his expression carrying a weight that didn't go unnoticed by Kouen. Eyebrow rising as his younger brother stepped inside his personal study, the younger man closed the door behind him as he murmured, "Kouen."

"Koumei," Kouen acknowledged, setting aside the parchment he had been reading. "What brings you here? I had thought you'd be working with Iris on the next stage of planning,"

There was a slight wince, Koumei's expression turning thoughtful as his eyes gleamed with concern, "I...En, I need to speak with you about something important. If you have the time that is."

Kouen's gaze sharpened, the hint of curiosity deepening in his eyes. "Of course, Koumei," he replied, gesturing to a nearby chair. "Sit, and tell me what's on your mind."

Taking the offered seat, Koumei's movements were measured as he settled down across from Kouen. As he began to speak, Koumei's voice was soft and filled with concern, "After my concubines decided to visit...I started to realize that I've been a bit lax even with the assassin wandering about," Koumei looked at him with a frown, "And with what could only be Gyokuen's agents wandering about...getting closer with each passing day regardless of what my security does..." He shook his head, "I've been considering relocating Iris to your palace for her safety and peace of mind," He admitted earning a sharp look, "The security measures here are more robust, and it would offer her the privacy she deserves."

Kouen listened attentively as Koumei spoke, his eyes narrowing slightly in response to the mention of Gyokuen's potential agents and the security concerns surrounding Iris. The weight of his brother's words hung in the air, and he took a moment before responding. Voice measured as he responded, he peered at Koumei with a calm gaze despite the emotions brewing within him, "Relocating Iris to my palace is a significant step," Koumei shifted a bit uneasily within his chair at those words, "I'm sure you've already realized that security isn't the only thing at stake with this type of move, Mei. Iris has found a sense of belonging within the walls of your residence. Moving her to my palace might provide enhanced security, but it could disrupt the balance she has come to appreciate,"

As Koumei nodded, the younger man released a heavy sigh as his shoulders slumped "I understand, En. It's not a decision I take lightly. But recent events have made me question the safety of our current arrangements."

Kouen leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled in front of him. "I don't dismiss the validity of your concerns, Koumei. The security of those we care about is paramount," he said, his voice carrying a gravity that bespoke the complexity of their situation, "However, we must also consider Iris's feelings in this matter. Upending her life, even for her safety, is not a decision to be made lightly."

That guilty look in Koumei's eyes increased, he spoke softly once more, I...spoke with Iris about my worries. She isn't happy," He paused for a long moment to search for the correct words to say, "I...she's torn, En. While she knows that I want her to be safe, she doesn't want to lose the comfort she's found within my residence."

Eyes narrowing as he considered Koumei's words, Kouen shook his head, "Iris's happiness and well-being matter to both of us. We need to find a solution that addresses the security concerns while minimizing the disruption to her life," He began running through what they could do, "But...we must also consider certain facts," Koumei eyed him in confusion, "Iris won't allow herself to be hidden away no matter how much either of us wishes it."

Koumei nodded, acknowledging the truth in Kouen's words. "I understand, En. Iris values her independence, and I don't want to make her feel like she's being forced into a situation she's not comfortable with."

Kouen considered Koumei's words carefully before responding, "Perhaps, instead of moving her entirely, we can explore additional security measures for your residence. Strengthen the existing defenses without causing significant upheaval," He cupped his jaw while considering possible things they could do, "Perhaps we could take a look at my own security and see what could work for you. It's a delicate balance, but it might be the compromise we're looking for."

Koumei's eyes brightened at the suggestion, "That's a possibility. I-" He shook his head and smiled at Kouen, "Thank you, En-"

"Wait until after we've figured out a plan for you," Kouen chuckled softly while shifting to look through his desk for some of the older security plans that were floating around in there.

As he placed several documents onto the table and began laying them out for Koumei, Kouen glanced at his younger brother as he murmured, "This is...I can see why no one has tried your palace before, En."

Chuckling softly, Kouen shook his head before turning stern, "It's not just about physical security, Koumei. We also need to be vigilant about any political machinations. Gyokuen is a formidable opponent, and we can't afford to underestimate her reach."

"I know..." Koumei's eyes gleamed with determination and they settled into their impromptu planning session.

Like a tempest had kicked up inside her mind, Iris's thoughts and emotions were running all over the place, and she had little hope of catching them. The words Koumei had shared echoed in the chambers of her mind, a cacophony of concern and the weight of a decision that seemed to loom larger with each passing moment. Fingers gripping the windowsill, she felt as if her skin were too tight and she could barely breathe as memories flickered through her mind. Images of her time since arriving in Kou flashed by, she felt the warmth of shared laughter, the quiet moments of understanding, and the genuine connection that had grown between her and the two princes.

Breath coming a bit short as she pressed her face against the glass, Iris's fingers dug into the wood as she whispered against the burning feeling in the back of her throat, "I don't want to lose this..."

Fear was a bitter, terrible thing to feel. It clawed at her, threatening to unravel the fragile threads of happiness she had woven in this foreign land. The prospect of a change, of moving away from what had become familiar, sent shivers down her spine. In the solitude of her room, the rhythmic tapping of her heart seemed to synchronize with the relentless thoughts racing through her mind. Iris grappled with the uncertainty, the weight of the decision hanging heavily on her shoulders. Almost in agony and needing to breathe, she pushed herself away from the window and stumbled towards the door.

Wrenching it open, Iris stumbled almost drunkenly through the halls towards the gardens. Cool night air hit her overheated skin, she sank into the grass after a brief walk and lay there as the moon slowly rose overhead. The gentle rustle of leaves and the distant sounds of the palace served as a backdrop to her racing thoughts. As her thudding heart slowed, she shifted to lay on her back and peered up at the moon. The fear that had clawed at her seemed to ebb away with each passing moment under the moon's serene gaze. Yet, uncertainty lingered, and the weight of the impending decision still pressed upon her. The vulnerability she felt, sprawled on the grass beneath the night sky, mirrored the delicate balance she sought to maintain in her relationships with Koumei and Kouen.

Breathe coming more slowly and evenly, Iris pressed a hand to her forehead feeling worn. As she began to notice the sweat coating her skin and contemplated going back inside if only to get cleaned up, an odd rustle caught her attention. Rolling to her feet with a hand going to the dagger hidden beneath her clothes, she scanned the darkened gardens carefully. There was a flash of silver as someone decked in black lunged from some nearby trees, Drawing on her training and lingering emotions, she met their attack with brutal efficiency. The clash of steel echoed through the night as they engaged in a tense dance of blades. Moonlight illuminated the scene, casting shadows that mirrored the ebb and flow of the confrontation.

Not quite paying attention as she tried to disarm the masked assailant, Iris barely heard shouting erupting from Koumei's palace. She only paid attention when two voices shouted, "Iris!"

A blade was unsheathed moments later and the masked assailant's eyes widened. The rhythmic clash of metal intensified as Iris, with a burst of strength, managed to disarm the assailant. The sword they were using clattered to the ground, its metallic echo underscoring the shift in momentum. As the intruder attempted to make their escape, she began casting a stunning charm only to be forced to jump back as silvery objects flew towards her. Dodging backward, she watched with a furious growl as the masked assailant disappeared into the shadows as more shuriken like the one that had been stuck in her arm hit the ground.

Breathing heavily as she finally sheathed her dagger, Iris jolted as arms wrapped around her waist and she was pulled back against a firm chest. Kouen darted in front of her as Koumei demanded, "Iris, are you alright? Did you get hurt?"

"No, I'm fine...I think," Iris shook her head softly, "I didn't feel myself get scratched,"

"That could just be the adrenaline," Koumei tugged her tighter against him, "En?"

"Gone as far as I can tell," Kouen scowled as he walked back from where he'd walked past the trees and bushes, "Iris-"

"I think I'm fine," Iris insisted feeling a faint bolt of irritation, "I don't think that asshole managed to even scratch me-"

Cutting herself off as a hand touched her cheek, Iris looked into Kouen's wine-red eyes. Concern drifted through his eyes, he gently brushed some hair away from her face, "We're relieved you're unharmed though a healer will be checking on you later, alright?" She nodded slowly, "But this incident... it's clear we need to take additional precautions."

Nodding as dread pooled in her stomach, Iris's mind was still processing the adrenaline-fuel encounter, "I...yeah..."

The trio made their way back to Koumei's palace, the air heavy with unspoken tension. Once inside, Iris was ushered off to see a healer while Kouen and Koumei met with a few of Koumei's personal soldiers who were in charge of security. After being cleared by the healer and getting herself cleaned up, she headed to Koumei's office where the pair were discussing what had happened. As soon as she walked inside, Koumei pulled her back to him and she let out a soft sound of surprise when he pulled her to sit in his lap.

Giving him a surprised look, Koumei merely pressed a gentle kiss to her cheek before looking at Kouen. Slowly she relaxed into his chest despite the unfamiliar position, Iris swallowed as the weight of the recent attack lingered in the room, casting a somber atmosphere. Expression serious as he peered at her, Kouen spoke as he sat at Koumei's desk, "Iris...this incident is a clear indication that your safety is at risk," She swallowed heavily while nodding, "And while I would much prefer to allow things to continue as they are...as we had originally planned," He shared a look with Koumei as she made a low sound of surprise, "It seems that we need to change our plans."

"You..." Iris looked back at Koumei, "You changed your mind...?"

"I could see how much you disliked the idea and En had some suggestions that would make staying here possible," Koumei's smile turned regretful, "But...With what happened tonight, the plans we were coming up with might not be enough,"

Heart beating faster at that, Iris felt like her stomach was twisting in knots. The shifting of plans, the additional precautions—it all pointed to a reality she had hoped to avoid. Koumei's arms around her provided a comforting anchor. Swallowing harshly against the lump forming in her throat, she spoke hoarsely, "You mean moving me, don't you?"

"My palace has defenses that are constantly changing," Kouen informed her in a soft tone as he walked over, "You'll be safe there," He reached out to cup her cheek, "I promise that things will not change other than the scenery,"

Relief mixed with apprehension, Iris found herself searching Kouen's eyes for any sign that this decision might jeopardize the delicate balance she had with the two princes. The promise of safety was comforting, but the prospect of leaving the palace, the place that was becoming her home, was unsettling. Koumei's arms tightened around her waist when she'd been silent for longer than a few moments. He spoke in that soft, soothing tone that somehow always managed to ease away the tension lingering in her body, "We understand this is a lot to take in, Iris," He rubbing soothing circles with his thumbs along her waist, "But we need to prioritize your safety."

Slowly nodding to him, Iris's mind raced with conflicting emotions. The intimacy of the moment—sitting in Koumei's lap, the concern etched on Kouen's face—made her feel vulnerable, exposed to the uncertainties that lay ahead. Unease lingered with their assurances, the shifting of plans meant leaving behind the comfort and familiarity she had found in the palace. The delicate dance of emotions and relationships with Koumei and Kouen, which had become her anchor, was now subjected to the turbulence of change. Kouen's thumb continued to trace gentle patterns on her cheek as he spoke, "We'll make the transition as smooth as possible. You won't be alone in this."

Swallowing her unease, Iris managed a small smile as she nodded, "I...alright," She met Kouen's eyes knowing without a doubt that he could see her hesitation, "I trust you both. If it's for my safety, then... then I'll do it."

Expression softening further, Kouen surprised her with a tender kiss on her forehead, "Thank you, Iris," A mixture of emotions filled those words as he pulled away from her, "We'll both make sure this transition goes smoothly."

As the trio continued to discuss the logistics of the relocation, the reality of the situation sank deeper. The next few days would bring significant changes, and Iris couldn't shake the feeling that the intricate balance of her relationships would be tested in this new setting.