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"How did you do that?" I asked, whipping my head to Itsuki who looked pleased.
"Scholarship in magic crafting, remember? I can make anything with just my fingertips."
"The luxury," I sighed in admiration, returning to admire at the hairpiece one more time before looking back at him again. "Can you make me more?"
"I'll make as many as you want,” he assured me.
At that point, Haru and Quil entered the room. "You guys are taking too long, so we brought breakfast," Quil announced.
"Morning, Crimson. You look really pretty this morning," Haru complimented.
I smiled widely at him. "Thank you and morning, you two. Sorry for the wait," I greeted, before turning my attention to the platter of food.
The moment the scent of rice and miso soup hit my nose, my stomach rumbled.
"I'm starving," I announced.
"I brought more food," Malachi declared, entering the room with Aki behind him.
"Are we having a breakfast picnic in Crimson's room?" Aki asked.
"Sure. Sounds fun," Haru encouraged.
"I'll go bring our food," Itsuki stated cheerfully.
"I'll help," Yoshi added.
I smiled, enjoying their exchange of morning greetings with one another. Urufu sat at my feet, watching with me.
I crouched down to pet her and stared at the six men in my room, all of them looking happy and refreshed.
"Storm was really lucky...and I guess I'm the bearer of such luck now. Arigato, Storm," I whispered.
Urufu brushed her nose along my cheek in a comforting motion.
We were about to begin another journey that would bring us closer to finding White Eyes and James, and closer to figuring out who was really pulling the strings at N.R.O.
All I hoped was that we would be strong enough to survive whatever trials awaited us.
CHAPTER5
Rivalry And Challenge
"You sure you're okay?" Yoshi whispered to me as we stood in front of the door to the Emperor's private office.
I nodded, but my hands trembled with worry. I didn't get why I was so nervous about this confrontation.
I'd mentally prepared myself the best I could during the train ride and while we were in the royal carriage that was designed to take visitors inside the Empire grounds.
Now that I was standing here, I was afraid.
My Kitsune was being affected by my fear; she lay curled up as she stared at the door through my eyes, waiting in anticipation for us to face the Emperor.
Meeting the Emperor was a shifter’s dream, especially when they wanted to become a mage or warrior, either in Homatomashi or abroad.
It was an acknowledgment of their power, and those privileged enough to meet him would ensure everyone knew that they were strong enough to meet him in the flesh, even if it was just for a delivery of goods. Yoshi moved to face me, checking the halls to make sure no one else was around before he lifted his hands, cradling my face. "Crimson. Look at me,” he whispered. His inviting voice motivated me to meet his gaze. I didn't hide the fear that lingered in my eyes as I stared back at him.
"Crimson Jiyuna, you are one of the strongest women I've had the privilege to know. Please don't question your strength. I know you’re worried because this entire shifter situation is something you never got to rightfully experience. Due to the wrongful actions committed against you by Konashi’s selfishness, you were robbed of learning about your true self and abilities. I understand this is scary, and your reaction is completely normal. I just want you to know I'm right here with you. I love you and won't leave your side. I know my father, and I’m sure he’ll adore you. All you need to do is be yourself. Don't worry about anything else,” he reassured me before placing a tender kiss on the lips.
