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Sun Kissed

Act 2: The Sun and the Blackguard

So this is Jyotisha?

It was nice.

The heart of Solaria was diminutive and still growing following her war for independence. The pagoda she lived in – her castle – was so much smaller compared to this. She didn't even have half as many servants tending to her there as were in this room right now.

This massive chamber, with the stars on the ceiling. Just how old was it all?

Aoi's eyes were wide as she looked up to the star chart painted upon the domed ceiling above. The closest thing that compared to this within her palace, would be the massive painting in honor of Amaterasu that sits within the royal lobby, but even that was just created five years ago. So again she wondered, just how old was Jyotisha Palace?

This place was rich with history.

It had been an hour or so since the dinner took place. Almost all the aristocrats of Jyotisha had taken their exit, leaving the once bustling room completely empty. Now all there was left were the signs of people, the Blackguard members still keeping watch, and the tall wolf fellow who followed Aoi from the carriage.

Oh, and of course there was him.

“Is everything okay, Empress Aoi?"

She looked over her shoulder, eyes falling on Adhil. The sultan of Jyotisha had this charming smile on his lips, something that warmed her heart. The voice she heard on paper – the one she gave him through his letters – didn't compare to the one he had now. The sultan truly was a bewitching man.

“It was a beautiful evening, Sultan," said Aoi with a bow, “You've made my visiting of Jyotisha a lovely time. I am honored."

“No, no, the honor's all mine, Empress," Adhil said with another bow, “I feel awful for taking you to this party so soon after your arrival into Jyotisha, but I couldn't imagine an easier way for you to meet everyone so quickly."

“It is fine, Sultan," she replied, “I was just as eager to meet everyone as well, and the boat ride to this continent was not as tiresome as you may believe. Though now, I dare say..." a sigh left her lips, “I would like to retire to my bedroom."

“Of course, of course!" Adhil said with a nod, “I have rented out the grandest hotel room for you within Jyotisha! I assure you, nothing will compare! My people will show you hospitality you could only dream about!"

“Kyuhu... such a charmer you are, Sultan," Aoi said with a warm smile, “I am in your debt."

“Ah, but before you go..." he moved in closer, “You are aware of Blackguard, no? My elite squad who protect Jyotisha? I know you have brought with you your own entourage; your most trusted members from your empire. But while you are here in Jyotisha, I thought it would be best if I could give you someone who could act as both your guard and guide. A member of Blackguard nonetheless."

“A member... of Blackguard...?" she repeated, “Do they typically act as guards?"

“Well... yes, but not quite to this level," Adhil replied as he shook his head, “How about... ah! Right!" he turned over, “Heze! Have you met with the Empress yet?"

Following his call, another man walked up to them, causing Aoi to look up at him. A large man – taller than the both of them – with such stern golden eyes and an even sterner disposition. And yet, something about him seemed familiar; specifically those eyes.

“It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Empress Aoi," Heze said with a bow.

“This is Heze Viginis," Adhil said, introducing him, “He is the captain of Blackguard, and a very close friend of mine. There is no one in all of Jyotisha that I trust more than him."

“Then the honor is all mine," Aoi said whilst bowing before Heze, “The members of your guard have kept watch over us all this evening. I thank you for this, Captain Viginis."

“It is unnecessary," he said, “I only do that which is demanded of me. Speaking of, Adhil came to me earlier this month asking that I deliver upon you a guide, one who will help you navigate Jyotisha while you are here, and also protect you if necessary. I have searched through the members of my guild extensively, and I believe I have the perfect choice to be your guide."

“Is that so...?" Aoi replied, “Well if it is your choice, then I do not believe I could go against it. However..."

“However...?" Adhil repeated.

But the Empress did not answer him right away. Instead she dropped her hands down to the sash of her robes, stroking her fingers upon it before coming to the collapsed fan that was stuck within her waist. Pulling it up, Aoi opened and inspected the fan to gaze upon its surface... but she did not see the flaming bird, no.

Instead the Empress imagined the young man who gave her the fan. The one with the dark skin, the silver hair, and the soft golden eyes. It was brief, but in that moment they came face to face, she saw the brilliance of the sun gazing back at her.

“There was a young man who gave me back my fan,"Aoi said whilst collapsing it, “He wore black and gold like you, Captain Viginis. In fact..." she walked in closer, “He had the same eyes as you as well. Was he a member of Blackguard?"

Heze and Adhil both tensed up then gazed at one another, the captain's usually stoic face having been replaced with shock. He looked like someone slapped him! But he kept his nerves and slowly stared back at the Empress, where he gave a steady nod.

“Yes. He is," Heze answered, “His name is Spica. He is my son."

“Spica Viginis..." Aoi said, a soft smile adorning her lips as she raised her fan, “And he is a member of Blackguard, no? Then... if I may be so bold as to ask... may he be my guide?"

Again Heze and Adhil looked at one another, trading glances. The Blackguard Captain couldn't believe she was asking for Spica specifically; it was almost laughable! He was this close to saying 'no' outright and denying the Empress her request... but the sultan's face said otherwise. Adhil gave him a pleading look, practically begging him to go along with Aoi's desire.

Once again, Jyotisha's possible future lies on if this meeting with the Empress went well enough. The sultan wanted nothing to get in the way of this, and that meant making her very happy. So if she requested Spica, then what's the problem? He was a young man and had already showed initiative; he could guide the Empress, couldn't he?

“I... understand," Heze said as he faced Aoi once again, “I'll have you know, Empress, that all members of Blackguard are the best of the best. They have been trained in some of the harshest, most grueling regiments known to man, and my son is no different. I have complete faith in his abilities to be a serviceable guide and protector for you during your stay in Jyotisha. So if you desire him to be your guide..." he nodded, “Then I will gift him to you."

Hearing that, a smile broke out on Aoi's face, one wider than before. Her cheeks even turned red with embarrassment. She was so bashful, that she again opened up her fan, using it to block her face from the nose down. Like a shy young lady, the kitsune closed her eyes and bowed before Heze, then said in a soft voice.

“Thank you."

…

Just who is she? Yes, he had her name, yes he knew who she was but... that question just wouldn't leave his mind.

Who is she?

In the time following dinner, that question ran through Spica's mind on replay; again and again and again. That woman in the palace – the one by the name of Aoi Solaria – just who is she? And... was it possible to learn about her?

As a member of Blackguard, Spica's duties didn't end when the dinner did. He may have been dressed more like an aristocrat than his fellow guard members, but he was still on duty. So once his mother and sister left to return home, he still needed to stand guard over Jyotisha palace. He wasn't dismissed until his father dismissed him, which normally wasn't a problem for the young man.

Normally...

But he couldn't focus on his duties. Right now he stood near the edge of Jyotisha Palace's walls, gazing over its surface towards the starlit skies overhead. But his mind wasn't on the stars, nor were they on the earth. No, his mind was on Aoi, and Aoi alone.

Before, Spica wanted to be her guide to prove himself to his father. But right now, he realized he wanted to be her guide simply to learn more about her. What were her likes? What were her dislikes? How was life in Solaria? Was ruling difficult? Was it easy? How did she win her home's independence from Dunbar Kingdom? And... well...

Just what kind of person was she?

And as these questions swirled about within Spica's mind, so too did the images of Aoi herself. All throughout the night he stole glances at her from afar. During the meet-and-greet, and during dinner, he couldn't look at anyone else. He was sure the same was true for everyone; even Spica realized he wasn't special. But those brief glances at the Empress just weren't enough for him.

She not only carried herself with this air of regal grace and elegant finesse, but she was incredibly beautiful as well. Spica's never been attracted to beastkin before, but Aoi wasn't just any beastkin. She was exotic, majestic, and divine. And even though she was eighteen or nineteen years older than he was, her mature age didn't drive him away, but pulled him in.

Spica was attracted to the Empress.

“Oh... that's not good," he muttered to himself as he palmed his forehead, “Haaah... Father's gonna kill me if he even thinks I'm attracted to the Empress! Agh... where's Zaniah when you need her? I could go for some practice rounds."

Looking away in an attempt to take his mind away from Aoi, Spica's eyes fell upon the nearest spire on the wall. And who was he so fortunate to have staring back at him, but his father, Heze. The Blackguard captain marched towards his son with other guards at his side, making the young man wonder if he was being taken off duty so suddenly.

“Is something the matter, Father?" he asked as Heze came to a halt before him.

“Spica," he said, his tone strong and serious, “You are being taken off of guard duty. You are needed elsewhere."

“E-elsewhere...?" he muttered, “Where?"

“Follow me."

Whenever Heze was short like this, it usually meant Spica had done something wrong. Considering he had been shamelessly ogling the Empress since her arrival, he figured he was about to be punished for that! It was enough to make the young man swallow his spit in apprehension, though that didn't stop him from following his father.

The two returned to Palace Jyotisha proper, making way for the main hall once again. Every step they took caused Spica's heart to race faster and faster. At any moment, his father was going to start berating him for his antics. He needed to quickly come up with some sort of defense, though he knew it would shatter to pieces.

The longer this went on, the more fearful Spica became. Why hadn't his father said anything yet? He just kept leading him deeper into the main hall, back to where the stars were drawn upon the ceiling. Normally he would have yelled at him by now! Instead he kept himself focused, and Spica didn't know why."

“Father, is something wr--"

“There..." Heze said, cutting him off and coming to a halt.

“There...?" Spica repeated before gazing ahead, “What do you mean by the-- huh?"

It was Aoi, standing tall and alone as she gazed upon the star chart drawn upon the rooftop. Saying not a word, Heze nudged his son forward... though he didn't really need to. Spica was so enthralled by Aoi, that he instantly forgot the mental war he was waging just moments ago. Instead he walked up towards her, mesmerized by the nine-tailed kitsune.

And the nine-tailed kitsune turned to face him.

For the second time that night, the two came face to face. Again, Spica's expression was wide and clear; like a child gazing upon an adult. In turn, Aoi too had the same expression she had during the party; with her thin lips slightly agape, and eyes slant in a curious expression.

But unlike the first time, it was Aoi who spoke first.

“Spica...?" she said, causing his chest to swell, “That is your name, correct? You are Spica? Spica Viginis?"

“Y-yes..." he muttered back, “I am Spica... and you are... Aoi? I-I mean! You're Empress Aoi," he bowed before her, “It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance! Please, forgive my slip of tongue!"

“Kyuhu... it is okay, Spica," said Aoi as she placed her hand on his chin, guiding his face up so that they could look eye to eye. That touch... it was brief, but the Empress' hands were so soft, “I have not been Empress for long, so I can forgive a few slips here and there. I have yet to truly grasp my station myself."

“I... I see..." Spica muttered before swallowing his spit, “Then... i-if I may ask... um... uh... w-why am I here...?"

A blush formed upon Aoi's cheeks, and she pulled out her fan. Opening it, she used it to cover her shy expression from the nose down.

“Sultan Adhil and your father, Captain Viginis, explained their wish to give me a guide to help me navigate Jyotisha while I am here," the Empress stated, “They had candidates lined out already, but I'm afraid I have always been a bit of a spanner in their cog. I suppose there's no way to ask than to just come out and say it, so..." she bowed before him, “Spica... may you be my guide for me in Jyotisha?"

“Glkgh?"

Spica Viginis was many things. Skilled, a fast-learner, and a quick-thinker, just to name a few. His father would add on hasty, superior, and arrogant as well. But in this moment, right here as he stood face to face with Aoi, Spica was... was...

He was spellbound.

“I'd love to..." he whispered, not realizing how strong his wording was.

Aoi didn't seem to mind. In fact, her blush grew stronger and her fan raised up higher.

“Thank you..." she whispered.

…

Why had she chosen him of all people? Had he done something to stand out? Or had his father changed his mind and given him this chance to prove himself yet again? No, Heze was not a man who changed his mind so easily. So, again he had to ask, why him?

Why?

It was the following day since the Empress' arrival, and Spica came to the horrifying realization that he couldn't sleep. His heart was racing a mile a minute, and his mind was just as fast, for it was filled with thoughts of the nine-tailed kitsune. One question stood above all others however.

How personal was this going to be? Would it just be the two of them? Aoi did disembark from the carriage with another man – one Spica assumed was her guard. Would he be with them? Or would it just be him and the Empress together?

Oh! He couldn't keep his mind straight!

All through the night he was silent. Come the morning he was silent. He was silent during his morning bath, and he was silent during breakfast. Not even Zaniah and her endless teasing could snap her brother from his thoughts!

His mind was utterly dominated by Aoi... and it soon came time for him to be with her.

Menat Hotel. If you were someone rich and powerful from a distant land, and was visiting Jyotisha for whatever reason, then this was the place you were staying at. Menat Hotel wasn't like Palace Jyotisha, nor was it like the Viginis Estate. Those buildings were wide and took up a great perimeter. Menat Hotel however was tall.

Very, very tall.

A looming tower with multiple rooms, when one stays in here, they can not only see all of Jeera, but beyond to Jyotisha's deserts as well! Its one of the few buildings you can see standing beyond the walls of Jeera, along with the palace itself. But it wasn't just tall; it was wide as well! Not as wide as the palace, but still taking up enough space to absolutely dominate the heart of Jeera. You couldn't go anywhere in the city without seeing the hotel!

And right now, Spica was standing in front of it.

He was dressed differently from usual. White harem pants, black open vest, no undershirt because it was too hot out to have one, sandals on his feet, and a gold-colored shawl on his shoulders. When's the last time he was allowed to dress so casually? He couldn't remember; he was almost always wearing his Blackguard uniform these days, even on his days off.

Now he needed to be relaxed. Now he needed to stuff aside his more cocky and superior attitudes. Normally such a thing would be difficult. But when his mind was dominated with thoughts of Aoi, he found himself being rather humble.

Probably because he kept getting embarrassed, even when nothing had happened yet.

Walking into the hotel, Spica was quickly ushered towards the stairs by one of the workers on hand. Up and up and up they climbed, coming towards the top of the hotel. Each step caused the young man's mind to race, wondering a myriad of questions.

Was Aoi even up? It was early in the day. What about her entourage? Would he have to guide them around as well? Who even were apart of her entourage? All these questions and more blinded Spica to the fact that they were here; right in front of the Empress' doors.

When the servant walked off, he hesitantly walked forward. Aoi was behind these doors, waiting for him. He swallowed his spit, took a few moments, then he--

Twist! Click!

“E-Empress...?" Spica called as he entered into the chamber, “Are you here? Whoa..."

This bedroom was big.

Very big.

The walls and floors were white like marble, the bed plush with gold and purple colors, and the curtains to the balcony were wide open. Spacious as well, the room was large enough to be a small house in its own right. Mesmerized, Spica slowly walked forward, stepping into the heart of the bedroom as he looked around and around and around. He knew he was here on business... but no one said he couldn't take in the décor, did they?

“Hm? Spica? Is that you?" a voice suddenly called, snapping him from his thoughts.

Turning over, his gaze fell upon the balcony, and the silhouette of a woman who stood there. The sun was at her back, casting her in shadows, and further making her appear to be some sort of deity given form. On unsteady feet, Spica walked towards her, watching as her nine tails pointed up, and her hand reached out for him. He reached back, coming closer and closer, while her attributes became more defined.

The shimmering blonde fur.

The looming voluptuous body.

The flawless golden hair.

The smile that captured the sun's radiance.

All wrapped in these red and white robes which covered her from her chest down to her feet. They were tied tightly around her midsection, flaunting her curvy figure as it clung close to her form. And the cleavage, ah... but he's been taught never to look at such a place. Yes, he is a randy young man who's been a bit naughty in his past, but for some reason, acting such a way before Aoi felt... disrespectful.

And the last thing he wanted to do was disrespect Aoi.

“Empress..." he whispered, “You look elegant."

“Kyu... thank you, Spica," she said with a bow of her head, “And you look rather handsome this morning. Again, the pleasure of your acquaintance is all mine."

When Aoi pulled back up following her bow, the young man felt himself choke up again. Her soft smile was far stronger than it had any right to be. It not only beguiled him, not only melted him, but also guided him. When the Empress walked forward, Spica found himself following her on uncontrollable feet.

They sat on a nearby couch; side by side, their hips were touching. Looking up, Spica again marveled at how Aoi seemed to tower over him effortlessly. He also found it impressive how she managed to contain all nine of her tails without any issue. The lofty empress just seemed to dominate his attentions, and he was doing nothing to deny her.

“Spica... may I see your hand?" Aoi suddenly asked, snapping him from his thoughts.

“M-my hand...?" he repeated before raising his right one, “S-sure... but why?"

“Kyuhuhu... I know this may sound surprising, but I was once a palm reader in my youth," Aoi answered as she placed her hands upon his, “I could learn a lot about a person just from their hands alone. So, let me take this time to learn about you?"

“S-sure... go ahead... um..."

Gently, her thumb and index fingers gripped upon his hand, stroking upon him in a quizzical, exploratory manner. They were slow sometimes, faster others, and they ran in such taunting strides. Upon his thumb, along his knuckles, between his digits, teasing his palms; over and over again.

“Haaaah..."

There was nothing explicitly erotic about what she was doing, and yet Spica's body was growing hot. This was different from holding hands with any of the girls he knows. Aoi's fingers were soft yet slender, and they stroked upon his hand in a knowing manner. Sometimes, she'd even interlock their fingers, holding him for a few moments, and then pulling away.

“You fight often, don't you?" the Empress suddenly asked, snapping him from his arousing thoughts.

“I uh... yes..." he answered, “As a member of Blackguard, it is important that I train often."

“I see, I see," Aoi repeated.

Continuing on, her hand began sliding upon his fingers and palm yet again. Unconsciously, Spica scooted a little closer to the Empress, while his eyes began to wonder. He stared upon her shoulders, marveling at how smooth and shapely they were. This brought his gaze down towards her bust.

Her amazing bust.

Why did it strain against the rim of her robe's so lusciously? Just barely it taunted him, causing Spica to tense up. Why oh why was he looking so hard? And why was it whenever Aoi breathed, her chest seemed to expand?

Just make it stop.

“You're getting hotter... is everything okay?" Aoi suddenly asked, again snapping Spica back to reality.

“I-I'm fine!" he said, scrambling to speak as the Empress slowed her touches, “Um... u-uh... you're clothes! They're different from what the women of Jyotisha wear. I... I've never seen anything like it before."

“Kyuhu... my clothes?" she pulled back, placing her hand upon the seams of her robes and stroking it, “I'm wearing what we call a kimono."

“A... kimono...?" he repeated.

“It is what we usually wear in Solaria," Aoi further explained, “They come in different types and styles. Like, what I'm wearing right now. It is a kimono, yes, but technically it is a yukata: something more casual."

“I... see..."

Aoi smiled.

“Do you like it?" she asked, causing Spica to again tense up.

“Oh! Y-yes! Very much so!" he answered, his cheeks turning red with blush, “It looks really nice on you, Empress. You look beautiful."

It took him a moment too long to realize what he said may have been a bit disrespectful. It wasn't what he said – Aoi's been called beautiful many times last night alone – but it was in how he said it. His tone was far too informal to sound as if it were coming from an enamored onlooker. Instead it was personal, making him sound like a...

Paramour...

“S-sorry!" Spica said whilst palming his face, “I did not mean to overstep my boundaries!"

“Kyuhu~! It's okay, Spica," Aoi said whilst waving off his statement, “In fact, I find what you said quite... flattering."

“Hm? You... do...?"

Her once laughing smile turned into something more restrained, and Aoi leaned forward. Resting her cheek against her knuckle, she gazed at Spica for a few moments too long, letting him get a better view of her alluring and mature features. The soft smile, the slender eyes, the gilded hair; all of it.

“You're hand... it's getting hot..." Aoi whispered.

“Wh... what?"

Spica looked down. His hand and her hand were still interlocked, and he didn't even notice it until she brought it up.

“Are you nervous, Spica...?" Aoi asked, causing him to tense up and look away.

“N-no..." he said... though it was such a blatant lie.

Fortunately, the Empress didn't call him out on it. Instead she laughed, causing him to look back at her. She had such a lovely sounding laugh. Mature and regal in sound, yet joyfully young in tone. It melted Spica's heart, and further endeared her in his eyes.

“Personally, Spica..." the Empress said as she grew quieter, “I think you'd look incredibly fetching in a kimono. If I had known I'd meet a person of your caliber while I was here, I would have made sure to bring a kimono in your size during my visit."

“R... really...?" he muttered, watching as she drew his hand over.

“I have brought with me extra kimono," Aoi continued, “They are gifts to show the fruits of Solaria. Items and trinkets, fruits and vegetables, and yes, even clothes. I'm sure I have a few of them in your size but..."

“But...?"

“I don't think they'd be good enough for you," she whispered whilst nuzzling the palm of his hand against her cheek, “No..." she reached over, her hand palming his vest, “I think I'd need to make something more befitting of you and your stature. You are a member of Blackguard, no? Even in Solaria, tales of your guild and their exploits have beguiled many. Your prowess in battle. Your duty to your people. Your upholding of justice. So... for someone like you, we'd need to make a kimono that was black and gold. That is your colors, isn't it?"

“It is... it... aah..."

Spica's eyes doubled in size, and he looked over at his palm. It was only now that he realized he was touching the Empress' face, and she was holding his hand close. His heart began racing and he even started to pant, before swallowing it to try and silence himself.

What was she doing? This was far too close! What? Was she attracted to him? Was she coming on to him? N-no! That's nonsense! This... this must be some Solarian custom that he didn't understand. But...

The touch... ooooh... she felt so lovely...

“Aoi..." he whispered.

“Kyu? Is something the matter...?" she asked whilst pulling back, “You seem so much hotter now than before, Spica. Are you well?"

“I'm..." he closed his eyes. Yes, the touch to her face was just some Solarian custom, “Haaah... I'm fine. But... we aren't going to sit all day in your hotel room, are we? I am to be your guide but... heh..." he grinned, “I can't guide you around your bedroom, can I?"

“Kyuhuhuh! You are right, Spica!" she replied whilst standing up, “Please, I look forward to seeing all Jyotisha has to offer! I want to learn about its customs, its traditions, and its people! But first..." she extended her hand to him, “I want to learn about its clothes."

“Its clothes, eh?" Spica replied, “Well follow me! I know the perfect place to find clothes!"

“Kyuhu. I look forward to it!"

…

Orion's Belt. That is the name of the marketplace within Capital City Jeera. Why the grand name as oppose to something generic and bland like... well... 'the marketplace'? Because Orion's Belt alone is large enough to be a modest sized town in its own right!

All around them there was a maddening hodgepodge of people, their bodies pressed to one another as a million conversations went on all at once. Many vendors dotted the area, their wares being anything from clothes and trinkets, to swords and knives. And running straight in the middle of the street like a divider, were not only canopies, but also fountains with sprayed water into basins surrounding it.

And at the head of the street, side by side, was Spica and Empress Aoi.

The Blackguard knight was used to this. Orion's Belt was always jam-packed with people, with no regards to the time of day. Learning to navigate it all is just apart of life in Jeera! Doubly so for a member of Blackguard, and triply so when guarding/guiding a political envoy.

Wait... is 'triply' a word?

“This is a... very busy place," Aoi commented as she curled a hand near her chin, “Everyone's talking all at once, and everyone's bumping into everyone. How do you manage it all?"

“Hm? This is just how Orion's Belt always is," Spica answered, “I've never seen it empty, not even in the dead of night! There's always at least... one hundred people here at any given moment."

“At least one hundred? By the gods..." Aoi whispered.

“Come, my Empress," Spica said whilst grinning, “Allow me to guide you to the best suitor in all of Jeera."

“Oh... okay!" Grab! “I'll stick close!"

“Hm?"

Aoi's hand suddenly grabbed a hold of his, clinching him tightly. It took Spica a few moments to grab back, holding hands with the Empress like how one would hold hands with a friend. Again she shook his cool facade, making the Blackguard knight chuckle in a sheepish manner, before stiffening up to put on a brave front.

Together they walked through the street, with Aoi marveling at their surroundings. Jyotisha's architecture was so different from Solaria's. Everything was made of stone and medal, unlike her home country which used more wood. Considering foliage was lacking in a place like Jyotisha, its citizens' ability to live in such a harsh environment was awe-inspiring.

“It's so hot here," said Aoi as she looked up to the skies ahead, “There's no winds blowing from the mountaintops. There aren't even any mountains to speak of. And there's so little grass save for the few gardens and palm trees. How do you live here, Spica?"

“Hm? Well... what is Solaria like, Empress Aoi?" he asked.

“It's so... green," she replied, before giving a mirthful giggle, “I sound so silly saying that but... it is so green. Our islands are small, but the lands they occupy are no less rich with variety. We have field lands, forests, mountains, tropical beaches; everything. But here... all you have is... dust... sand... heat... brutal winds..." she raised an eyebrow, “How do you survive it all?"

“It's not too hard," he replied with a dismissive wave of his free hand, “Alone, a man would die in a desert quickly. But together, people can overcome any adversity. I won't lie and say Jyotisha is free of any issues; it has plenty! But when the people band together, problems like... the dust... the sand... the heat... the brutal winds... heh... they don't really mean anything!"

“I see... so you survive out here because you help one another survive..." Aoi muttered, “That is the way of all communities... and yet..." she nodded, “It is so much more truer here. Jyotisha's a difficult place to survive in. Tell me; is the spices you mine truly that important to risk one's life?"

“Eh... I don't think so," Spica answered honestly, “The spices are nice, but if Jyotisha was only spices, I don't think I'd care enough to protect it. Personally, I care more for the people. I want to protect them, as what Blackguard does best. You said it yourself; we uphold justice and the like! That's what is important to me."

“Mm..."

Aoi's eyes closed and she took a thoughtful pose while his words ran through his mind. For a few moments, Spica wondered if he had said something to offend the Empress. But when she looked back, it was with a smile on her face, and a gleeful one at that.

“Kyuhu... so gallant of you, Spica," she remarked, before moving in to the point that their arms were touching, “Blackguard must be honored to have such a stalwart member as yourself."

“I uh... hm..."

Her praising words were at odds with his father's feelings of him being arrogant and hasty. On any normal day if Aoi was any person of Jyotisha, Spica would agree. He is a stalwart member of Blackguard, and they were honored to have him!

But now he suddenly felt... wrong. Like in some way, he was lying to the Empress; tricking her. As if he was presenting some version of himself that was naturally false. And it left him feeling shame.

“Now then... onward to this suitor!" Aoi said, again galvanizing him to move forward.

“R-right! This way!"

As the thoughts of his perceived deception began dying down, Spica realized something. He was holding hands with the Empress of a distant land as they walked through Orion's Belt... and absolutely no one seemed to realize this! He thought they'd be getting hounded by onlookers, but everyone continued on with nary an issue! Was this an order made by Adhil? No... there was more to it than that, and Spica soon learned why.

Gaze around, and his perceptive eyes could see many members of Blackguard standing in the shadows. A few here, a few there, standing in alleyways, standing on rooftops, all of them keeping watch not only on the citizens, but also on Spica and Aoi. Jyotisha does have its own police/defense force, mind you, even with Blackguard living in the city. So such guard work is usually seen as being beneath the elite guild.

For them to be standing watch like this must have been an order from his father, not from the sultan. Naturally, it left Spica feeling... frustrated. Did his father truly have such little belief in his son that he had Blackguard performing guard work like this? He could guide and protect the Empress himself! He didn't need help!

“Spica...? Is something the matter...?" Aoi asked, “You're grip is getting stronger..."

“Hm... s-sorry," he muttered whilst pointing forward, “Follow me. The suitors is right over here."

Aoi nodded and followed along, with the two entering into a nearby building. It was cooler in here beneath the shade, and there were a wide number of clothes on display. Robes, vests, turbans, harem pants; this place and its clothes were so different from what she was used to. Even the sandals – a type of footwear common in Solaria – were new and unique. And when she touched one of these clothes...

“Haaah..."

It felt so silky smooth against her fingers.

Eyes wide, Aoi stroked her hands upon a clothe in front of her. It was dark purple in color, and seemed to shine when the light struck it. Slightly translucent as well, she could see the silhouette of her fingers on the other side.

Pulling out more of the clothe, she realized it was a top of some sort. It was small, tight, and more importantly, it had this star-shaped design upon its surface. A constellation, one that Aoi was unaware of.

“Wow..." she whispered, “This fabric is so nice... and its design... ah..." she looked over towards Spica, “I have studied on Jyotisha, about its trade and textile. But its customs, its traditions, its history, its religion... it all remains so alien to me. Everywhere I look, I see stars and constellations. On your buildings, your roads, your walls, even on the ceiling of the palace... why is this, Spica?"

“Uh... the constellations, huh?" he replied as he stepped in closer, “Let me see here... right! As the story goes, the goddess of the cosmos Saturnia led Jyotisha – that is the Jyotisha that the land is named after – into the heart of the desert by blinking stars in the skies. Upon arrival, he discovered the land was rich in spices, which he mined with the aid of his family. They were so rare and so sought after, that the land which he named after his family quickly became affluent, and he was able to become sultan and a ruler in his own right. But before that, Jyotisha was nothing more than a servant who ran with his family to make a life all his own. But... well... like I said, that's how the story goes. That is the history of Jyotisha, and such, we have a great respect for the goddess Saturnia. Her presence can be felt everywhere, as you've noticed, and it is said that if you get lost out in the desert, just wait until night and stare up. The stars will guide you."

“Ah... so inspiring," Aoi whispered, “Your stars, your colors. I too can feel your goddess gazing over me."

“What about you?" Spica asked, “I've noticed it on your clothes; you have a very consistent scheme of reds, golds, and whites. And on your fan yesterday, I saw that flaming bird... a phoenix. Does it mean anything to you?"

“Kyufu, you continue to impress me with your perception, Spica," Aoi remarked as a warm smile adorned her lips, “Yes, Solaria too has its own goddess of protection, and the phoenix you saw on my fan was her. She goes by many names, but we in Solaria call her Amaterasu: the sun god. It is because of her that I was able to win Solaria's freedom from Dunbar, and when I became ruler of the islands, I changed my name to give honor to her."

“You... did...?" Spica said, taken off guard by this, “So... what? Your name is Aoi Solaria?"

“It is... but..." she shook her head, “It wasn't always. I went by a different name years ago. A name I have forgotten. A name I choose not to remember."

“I...?"

Spica's voice trailed off as he looked at the Empress, watching as she gazed away. There was a history here, one she didn't want to share with him, and he could understand why. Perhaps she changed her name when she began fighting for her land's independence. With that in mind, her old name may just bring up memories of her old life in servitude. Her desire to keep that name forgotten is understandable. He'd too would want to forget a name he had when he was someone else's slave.

“Would you... like to try it on...?" Spica asked, again drawing Aoi's eyes to him.

“I... can...?" she asked, to which he nodded.

“Yes, we have changing rooms in the back. Feel free to try them on to your liking."

“Kyufu~! Exciting! I will gather so much clothing!"

Her excitement took Spica aback. For a moment, her joy at the idea of clothes reminded him of women he knew around his age... like Zaniah. Was the Empress someone who enjoyed the idea of clothes and fashion? Or was he reading too deep into it? But he didn't find it to be unbecoming of her status... quite the opposite, really.

He found it made her more... normal. And he liked it.

“I will be back soon, Spica," said Aoi as she retreated to the changing rooms in the back, “Please, look forward to my reappearance!"

“Of course, Empress..."

Growing silent, Spica waited for Aoi to return as she slipped through the doors in the back. And, again, he found the Empress dominating his mind. She was in there, undressing from those robes she wore... the kimono. Was it peeling off of her body so sensually? Sliding down inch by inch like morning blankets on her body? How naked was she getting beneath as well? How much flesh and fur was she going to show?

“Hngh..."

A red blush appeared on Spica's face as the erotic thoughts of Aoi's nude body infiltrated his mind. On one hand, he kept scolding himself for not having the mental fortitude strong enough to force such thoughts aside. On the other hand, his own shame didn't stop these thoughts from permeating. They festered, they grew, and before he knew it, all he could think about was Aoi's nude form.

How amazing and beautiful it must be.

How mature and allure.

And how undeniably sexy and erotic.

She was a tall woman, taller than he was. Only his father came to equal size with the visiting Empress. The way her kimono hugged close to her waist showed it to be slim and slender... but not too much. Her hips were lovely and wide as well, and of course there was that chest. That lofty, bouncy, busty, chest.

“Nggh..."

He blushed and looked away, feeling shame for himself. But in the darkness of his closed eyes, he could so perfectly envision Aoi's nude body. Even here it taunted him, just imaging how she'd look completely naked before his eyes! Oh no!

His eyes...

He opened them!

And he saw Zaniah staring back!

“Gah!? Wh-what!? Zaniah!? What are you doing here!?"

“KEHEHEHEHEHE! Well, watching you gawk like a fool was certainly worth coming here in the first place!" she replied whilst barely keeping herself from falling over.

It took Spica a few moments, but once he regained his composure, he leered at his sister, watching as she too calmed down. And then they just stood there, glaring at one another; the younger twin grinning, while the older twin glared.

“You didn't answer my question, Zaniah. What are you doing here?" Spica asked, to which his sister giggled some more.

“Oh gee... I dunno!" she replied sarcastically, “Ah... last I heard, there was some foreign empress visiting our beloved desert. Keeping her safe and protected is thus the highest priority of any Blackguard member, regardless of age and position. And as a Blackguard member, I have thus stuffed aside my political teachings to carry out a mission for our Captain. He wants me to make sure that the Empress is A-OK!"

“Ngh! What!? Father sent you!?" Spica replied with a snarl, “Rrgh! I knew those Blackguard members were watching us! Well, you can tell Father that I am the Empress' guide and guardian! I can protect her well myself! I don't need the aid of others!"

“Keheheh! Weeeeell... I was gonna tell him that," Zaniah replied, “Buuuuuuuut, someone had to just go and mess up!"

“What are you talking about?"

“Kehehehe! Spica, do you know how long I've been following you?" she asked back, “I'm not like the other Blackguards; I'm not just standing at some street corner or alleyway watching you two. I've been ordered specifically by Father to follow you two. He wanted me to make sure you could handle things with the Empress alone."

“Ghn?"

“And honestly? You kinda failed! Spica, normally you notice when people are stalking you. But this time? I've been following you since you joined up with the Empress!"

“Wh... what?"

“Uh-huh! Since you left Menat Hotel, aaaaaaaaalllll the way to Orion's Belt, I've been your little shadow! I kept my distance at first cuz I thought you'd notice me... but then I realized you were far too focused on the Empress to care. So I got closer... and closer... and closer. For a few moments there, I couldn't have been anymore than a few feet behind you two."

“I-impossible! You're lying, Zaniah!"

“Kek! I wish!" she replied, “Cuz now I have to report that to Father!"

“You better not!" he shouted, “Look, you can return to Father and tell him I'm doing an amazing job of protecting the Empress! Did you ever stop to think that I let you sneak up that close? It's not like you were gonna attack us or anything! You were no threat!"

“Uh-huh... yeah right... keep telling yourself that, Spica," Zaniah replied whilst crossing her arms, “Besides, it's not like Father can remove you from guide duties. The Empress herself requested you, did she not? And Sultan Adhil is far too focused on this going well to let you leave your post. Sooooooo..." she turned her head, gazing at the changing room and causing Spica to do likewise, “Do your duties, Brother..."

“Hgh... Zaniah..."

He looked back over towards her.

She was gone.

Zaniah may not focus as hard on her Blackguard duties as he did – instead opting to go the political route like their mother – but that did not mean she wasn't a skilled spy. Her speed and deft rivaled his own, and she proved it just now. And really, Spica didn't know what was worse. The fact that he failed in someway, or that he let his sister be the one who bested him. It embarrassed the young knight, fearing he was only proving his dysfunction before his father. How was he ever going to be taken seriously if he kept messing up like this?

Slide!

“Spica? Are you there?"

“Yes my Empress, I'm he-- uh...?"

Those thoughts of self-pity were instantly washed aside.

Before him stood Empress Aoi, and gone was her kimino. Replacing it was clothing that on any other woman in Jyotisha, would have garnered a curious glance at best, and nothing more. But on her, it was so much more.

We'll start with her legs, shall we? Her legs were covered in harem pants, not too dissimilar to his own. But where as his were white, hers were red, and she had a bushy sash tied around her hips like a belt.

And yes, those hips...

He could see it before with her robes, but with these pants it was even more apparent; Aoi had such wide, shapely hips. They fanned out, and when tied with her midriff and chest, it gifted the Empress an hourglass-like shape which was even more obvious than when she was wearing her kimono.

And that midriff.

Her kimono showed little save for her cleavage. But with her wearing Jyotishian clothes, her midriff was now on full display. So slender, so narrow, but not overtly so. Aoi wasn't a slender, spry young woman like, say, Zaniah was. Nor was she as skinny as his own mother, Porrima. The mature kitsune was just so damn... curvy. Curvy in all the right areas... slender and smooth in all others.

And that cleavage was still there.

The top she wore wasn't a croptop like one would expect, no. The top she wore was something Spica had only seen dancers wear. Meaning it was open in the middle to flaunt her busty breasts. It then curved around her neck and back in such a way that it also flaunted her back as well! The garment even seemed to pull up on her breasts, giving them a generous lift not unlike a bra. In fact, was she even wearing a bra!?

No, she wasn't!

Altogether, the clothing seemed to transform Aoi. The only signs left of her royalty and origin would be the golden needles in her head that kept her ponytail in place. Otherwise, you could easily confuse her for some exotic dancer from a distant land! And it left Spica stuck in place.

He couldn't take his eyes off of her.

He didn't want to take his eyes off of her.

But as he stood here, his gaze utterly dominated by the mesmerizing Empress in front of him, he felt his heart pang and beat and throb in his chest. It got to the point that he swore it was aching! But he didn't know how to keep it down.

He didn't know if he wanted to keep it down.

“How do I look...?" asked Aoi, breaking the moment of gawking silence Spica was suffering.

Though, it wasn't like he could really speak.

“You ugh... gugh... you... hgn... you um... you..."

“Kyuhuhu! I'll take it that I look enthralling," Aoi said as she tossed up her hair a bit, “Your jaw is hanging on the floor, Spica."

“Ghglh!? I... it is...?" he muttered before closing his mouth, “Hm... s-sorry..."

“Kyuhuhuhu! It's okay, I should be apologizing," she said whilst walking up closer, causing her chest to bounce with her every step, “I was just only teasing you, Spica. You were so wide-eyed that I couldn't help myself!"

“Hmm..."

“Though... there is a slight problem with these clothes..."

“There... there are?" he asked, watching as Aoi walked over to the nearby mirrors.

Facing Spica, she placed her hands upon her hips, then pushed her butt out towards her reflection whilst leaning over a bit. This was a very bad thing for the young man's psyche. With her dancer's top, he got more than just an eyeful of her chest! He could so easily see their curvature, and the way the deep valley just went down and down and doooooown.

Shit...

But that wasn't all.

“My tails..." muttered Aoi as she caused them all to point up, “I grabbed a pair of pants that had a tail hole but... fitting all nine of my tails through it proved difficult. See?"

Her words caused his gaze to travel towards her reflection in the mirror... and the big, beautiful butt staring back at him. Aoi's backside was so large, so round, so shapely, her pants so sinfully clung to its every detail, and with her nine tails raised, he could see everything. And, dammit, he just couldn't pull his eyes away!

But that wasn't the worse aspect, no. It was close, but not the worse. What was the worse, well...

Jyotisha has a wider number of humans that occupy it than beastkin. He'd say the population was... a 1-to-10 ratio: one beastkin for every ten humans. Perhaps his numbering was off, but with such a low amount of beastkin, was it any surprise that not many places stock clothing meant for things like tails or wings?

And the pants Aoi was wearing? They weren't meant for beastkin. No, the pants she was wearing was meant for dancers. That means that what she thought was a hole meant for tails... wasn't actually a hole meant for tails. It was instead a lewd hole that would allow one to gleefully ogle a dancer's butt crack to their hearts content.

So... yes... Spica was indeed seeing the line of Aoi's furry butt crack. It was slight, but slight means it was still there.

“Glghlk..."

Placing his hands upon his face, Spica turned away to hide his shame and embarrassment. At the same time, the already erotic thoughts he had of Aoi's body seemed to explode. She was wearing dancer's clothes with all of the skimpy attributes one would expect; how could he not be thinking such lewd thoughts?

Could she dance as well as the dancers at night can? Could her hips swivel and sway? Could her chest bounce and jiggle? Could her hands perform intricate and elegant movements? If she had a mask on from the nose down, would that add a mysterious sensuality to her?

To that last question, Spica knew the answer to be yes.

“Spica...?" Aoi said whilst straightening up, “Is everything okay? You're suddenly so silent!"

“Glkgh... m... my Empress..." he whispered as he kept his eyes averted, though his cheeks remained as red as a tomato.

“Hm? Is something wrong?"

“Yes... n-no... no... yes..." he muttered, “Haaah... Empress Aoi..." he stepped forward gingerly, though his eyes remained elsewhere, “What you're wearing. Your clothes? It's um... those are clothes that dancers wear. Exotic dancers."

“Exotic... dancers...?" she repeated before looking down, “So... these aren't clothes meant for beastkin...?"

“I'm afraid not..."

“And the tail hole... is not meant for tails...?"

“No, my Empress..."

“Oh..." her cheeks turned red, “Oh dear!"

Realizing her mistake, Aoi quickly covered her arms in a defensive manner, allowing Spica to gaze back at her. He felt ashamed, as if he somehow misled the Empress into wearing something so embarrassing! To make up for it, he grabbed his shawl off his shoulders and placed it upon hers, covering the nine-tailed kitsune from the neck down. Feeling it fall on her shoulders, Aoi's once embarrass frown turned into a sheepish smile, and she looked up at him.

“Arigato, Spica-kun."

“'Arigato'? 'Spica-kun'? What does that mean...?" he asked, though Aoi pulled away.

With his shawl still on her shoulders, the Empress retreated into the changing room, leaving Spica alone. Taking in a deep breath, he lingered outside her door whilst thinking about what she said. 'Arigato'? What did that mean? Was that her native tongue? If so, she sounded different when she spoke in her language, as oppose to his.

She sounded... divine...

…

“Spica... what do you eat for sweets here in Jyotisha?"

Emerging from the suitors with Aoi back in her kimono (and his shawl still on her shoulders), Spica looked over at the Empress with an eyebrow raised.

“Sweets...?" he muttered, “As in... like... chocolates? Sugar cane?"

“Kyuhu! Yes, those! Sweets!" she said as she nodded, “What does Jyotisha enjoy for sweets? Do you have ice cream here? Or perhaps popsicle?"

“We do but..." he shook his head as a grin appeared on his lips, “They're not as popular out here as you'd think! If you want something truly special to Jyotisha, follow me! I'll show you the best chocolates in town!"

“Kyuhu! I look forward to it!"

He stepped forward, but Aoi quickly grabbed a hold of his hand. Clinching it tightly, she caused Spica to jolt in place momentarily, before nodding. Hand in hand, they duo walked through the packed streets of Orion's Belt, making way for the nearest destination.

Like all good marketplaces, you need an equally as good food court! And their food court was grand enough to make food connoisseurs shiver! Surrounding a grand fountain and statue, food stands and stalls were dotted around in a sporadic mess. Lines blended in with lines, and honestly, this area seemed even more compact than the rest of Orion's Belt! But being the natural that he is, Spica easily navigated the mess, bringing them to--

“Ah! Spica! Great to see you!"

“Hello, Situla. How's the day treating you?"

He was an older man, one at a stand where the aroma of chocolate was strong and thick. Stepping in close, Aoi's sensitive vulpine nose quivered, taking in delicious whiff after delicious whiff of the meal on hand. Chocolate was a rarity in Solaria, and yet even she could tell that this sweet treat was truly refined.

“Is she...?" said the man at the stand – Situla – as Aoi smelled his chocolates.

“Yes, she is. And I recommend you show her respect, Situla," said Spica.

“Oh! But of course, your highness!" said the food vendor as he bowed, “The name's Situla, and I run this little sugar stand! And I'll say, this here chocolate's the best chocolate in all of Jyotisha! I'll have you know, I traveled the world to master my culinary skills before returning here!"

“No one asked for your life story, Situla," muttered Spica, though Aoi giggled.

“Kyuhu! With such belief in yourself, then I see why Spica brought me to your stand," said the Empress, “It is my pleasure to meet you, Situla. I am Empress Aoi of Solaria. I would like to enjoy some of your chocolate sweets."

“Well Spica brought you to the right place!" said Situla excitedly, “Just sit right there my Queen, and I'll get you what you need!"

“It's Empress," Spica corrected, “Not 'queen'..."

“Aaah... I see..."

He... he didn't realize how stern his voice had become. Almost in a protective manner. Aoi noticed however and it made her giggle, but she said nothing.

“Alright, my Empress," said Situla in a more respectful manner, “Why don't I impart upon you the greatest sweets Jyotisha has to offer! Chocolates that you'll be begging to take with you back to your land!"

“Kyuhu! I look forward to it!"

Before them on Situla's stand was an open jar of melted chocolate over a soft fire, and beside it was another open jar with sugar cane. Grabbing a few sticks of sugar cane, he plopped it into the chocolates he was so proud of, scooping it up like a spoon. At the same time, Spica reached into his pocket to produce a few silver coins, paying for their meal.

“Thanks for the sweets," Spica said as Situla handed them their chocolate-covered sugar canes.

“Eh, no need to thank me; I do this for a living!" he replied as he watched them walk away, “Enjoy your date, Spica!"

“D-date!? Won't you stop joking!?"

Situla laughed and so too did Aoi, both of which causing the young man no end of embarrassment. Shaking it off, Spica instead brought the Empress over towards the nearby fountain, sitting on a ledge before it, and offering her a set beside him.

“How do I eat this...?" Aoi asked as she sat down.

“Just stick it in your mouth and... bite... or you can suck the chocolate off. My sister does that. Just uh, be a bit careful; it's a bit hot."

“Hm..."

Bringing the sugar cane close, Aoi gave it a few quizzical sniffs, a sight Spica was oddly attracted to. Again, the Empress' refined nature was put to the wayside, as she instead appeared a bit more curious and cute. Her quivering nose kept running upon the sides of the sugar cane, taking in more of its odor as she explored it.

And then she said...

“It's thick..."

Boy that statement sent a jolt through Spica.

“Will it hurt my teeth?" Aoi asked as she faced him.

“Hm... n-no... it shouldn't," he replied, “It's not like regular sugar cane. This is more like a candy. The cane is soft and crunchy. Kind of like bread, I'd say."

“Ooooh..."

Keeping his eyes on Aoi, Spica watched as the Empress' tongue slithered out to lick upon the side of the sugar cane.

The very phallic looking sugar cane.

The chocolate oozed down its head in such a smooth manner, that it naturally brought thoughts of a penis' helm to his mind. Spica couldn't help himself, even when he tried to! Like in the suitors, all he could think about was the undeniably erotic allure of Aoi's body. And if he just thought hard enough, he could replace the sugar cane in her hand with a nice, long, stiff cock.

“Glkh...!"

He flinched at those thought, audibly groaned with himself as well, but when he wheeled his eyes back to the Empress, he grew silent yet again.

She was like Zaniah, meaning Aoi took her time licking the chocolate before directly delving in. Her tongue slicked and slid upon the sugar cane, scooping up bits of chocolate with its every stride. But this wasn't just simple licks. Perhaps his mind was playing tricks on him more, but the Empress' tongue was so damn erotic. The way it slid upon the side of the sugar cane, was like she was tracing her tongue along veins. Her drool and spit oozed upon its surface not unlike she was polishing a member. Even her hands grasped at the bottom half of her sugar cane in an erotic manner.

Was Spica's mind playing tricks on him? Yes. But that didn't matter, because his mind was playing tricks on him!

Her every lick was erotic, her every slurp lewd, and the slight hums she gave from the tasty treat could sound like sensual moans. Did she realize how sexy she was being right now? No... because honestly, she wasn't being that sexy; she was just enjoying a sugary treat!

Tell that to Spica's manhood however...

“Mmmff...! Hm...? Spica..." Aoi said before swallowing down some chocolate, “You haven't eaten your treat. Is everything okay?"

“Y-yeah... I'm fine," he said whilst quickly taking a bite out of his sugar cane, trying to take his mind off of Aoi.

“Kyuhu... okay! Ah..." she nudged him, “Spica... if you don't mind... may I see your wallet? Or... just a coin?" she cocked her head, “When you paid for our treats, I'd like to see what you paid it with."

“Uh... sure... um..."

Reaching into his pocket, Spica produced another silver coin and handed it to the Empress. She held it in her palm and stroked her thumb upon its surface, before turning it from side to side. On one half of the coin there was a four-point star. On the other half there was the image of a goddess of some sort, one with long hair, and a phrase written at the bottom.

Beneath the Goddess, it said.

“Is this the money of Jyotisha?" Aoi asked, to which Spica nodded, “Wow... even on your money you give respect to your gods..."

“We can be a very... religious place at times," Spica answered.

“Kyuhu! I'll be sure to trade some money with you when we return to my hotel," she said, “I'd love to learn more about Jyotisha. This is so exciting!"

“Well... what about you...?" Spica asked as he slid in closer, “I know so very little about Solaria save for the few things you've told me thus far. Since I heard of your impending visit, I often wondered what you and your kingdom was like. My sister said that you fought for independence against the Dunbar Kingdom, and that's how you became Empress. You united islands under you. How did you do it?"

“Hmm... mm... Spica..."

“Yes...?"

“Let me see your hand again."

He was confused a first, but remembering what they did in her hotel, he did as he was told and gave her his hand. She didn't hesitate, and quickly interlocked their fingers together, holding them close. And again, Spica felt his heart begin to race.

“Remember when I said I was a palm reader in my youth?" she asked, to which Spica nodded, “Kyuhu... well... I wasn't born royalty or anything like that. Solaria was a very, very poor place with a very, very rich history. We once had kings and queens as chosen by the goddess herself; Amaterasu. But centuries of poor leadership and manipulation by the Dunbarians reduced Solaria to a collection of weak islands. The rulers at the time were nothing more than figureheads... and poor ones at that. They did whatever the rulers of Dunbar told them to do, causing Solaria to be nearly stripped clean of all its natural resources, and sent across the ocean. Living in Solaria at the time was terrible... and that's the Solaria was I born into. Kyuh... may I... tell you a secret, Spica...?"

“Uh... um... s-sure..." he whispered, causing her to smile in a warmer manner.

“Thank you... I know I can trust you with this knowledge, and no one else. Kyu... Spica... my mother was a prostitute."

“W... what...?"

“Yes, a prostitute," she said with a nod, “And a particularly expensive one at that. She beguiled and entertained many a noble within Solaria's court, and one of them was my father. I know not if my father was king of Solaria itself at the time, or perhaps a prince, but it matters not; I was conceived when my father slept with my mother. But being the daughter of a whore, I was not granted the luxury of living in a castle or anything like that. Instead, I grew up in the red lantern district with my mother. There I learned to navigate the streets, like many a street rat with no future. It is also where I learned how to palm read, and discovered I had the peculiar ability to predict the future."

“You... you can...?"

“Kyuhu! It's not an exact science, I'll admit, but to some degree I am a diviner," she explained, “I could foresee very few things at first, but as I grew older, my abilities became more concrete. At the same time..." one of her many tails wiggled, “I started producing more tails. At first I thought it was a mutation, and that my divination skills were only lucky guesses. But on the day of my sixteenth birthday, my mother told me the truth. I was the daughter of royalty, and thus I too had the blood of the sun goddess Amaterasu in my veins. But strangely, it was stronger in me than I was in the others, and neither of us knew why. I was so overwhelmed with this, that I didn't know what to do! Ultimately, my mother and I agreed that it would be best if we just kept it a secret. So we did, and I continued my life palm reading. And then..."

“And then... what...?"

“The king of Dunbar died," she answered, “And he had no heir to quickly succeed him. His wife was not particularly liked by the Dunbarians, and his son was still too young. So things became tumultuous in Dunbar. But life wasn't better in Solaria either. Even when I was a child, uprisings had been planned as the people grew tired of being used and abused by the Dunbarians and the ruling class. Around that time, I began suffering strange visions of a phoenix transforming into a woman. The goddess was calling out to me. So..."

“So...?"

“I heeded her call. Using my skills of divination, I joined with the liberation force of Solaria, and became a soldier. There we began fighting off the occupying Dunbarian soldiers when they were at their weakest. And with my skills of divination, and our knowledge of our homeland, we were able to force them off land. But this was a momentary victory, and a slight one. Dunbar would return with boats filled with soldiers, and would force us beneath their heel."

“So what did you do...?" Spica asked as he hung on her every word.

Aoi didn't answer. Instead she grinned, and clinched even harder upon his palm. In response, the young man leaned in close, desperate to get the answers he sought. It took him a couple of moments to put the pieces together however.

Aoi was a palm reader. They were holding hands. She admitted to having some level of divination, one that grew stronger as she got older and as she produced more tails. She has nine tails, the maximum level of tails a kitsune could have. And dare I repeat, they were holding hands.

Was she... foreseeing his future? What does that entail? Could she see more than just his future? Could she also see how he felt towards her? No... that can't be! Divination and mind reading are two different things, right?

Right?

“Spica...?"

“Yes..."

“Would you like to see me dance?"

Her question caused him to jolt and his eyes to wide. It didn't take much longer for his mind to think back to the suitors, and how she was in that lascivious dancer's outfit. The thoughts of what she'd look like while dancing continued lingering in his mind, even now, and her question caused them to balloon. But again, he had to wonder...

How did she know?

Their hands were still holding.

“I know how to dance," Aoi said in a not so subtle manner, “Growing up in the district as I did, I danced for many a men. It has been some years, but... I'm sure I could still put on an amazing performance."

“Empress..."

She kept her gaze trained on him, but brought over the sugar cane. Spica – quaking in place – tried to break their interlocking fingers, but Aoi's powerful gaze kept him trapped. He stared into those eyes, stared upon her face, entranced... watching... watching... watching...

Aoi brought over her chocolate-covered sugar cane, resting the tip against her lips. She kissed it, causing strands of chocolate to hang from her lips in these strong, gooey lines. Then her tongue – sensual and swift – circled around the sugar cane's tip, before scooping some chocolate in to swallow it.

Her erotic display had the desired affect on Spica. His cheeks were turning red, his baggy pants were somehow growing tight, and he felt his breathing begin to quicken. Was this happening, or was he imagining it? Was she enjoying the treat in a simple manner, or was his aroused mind making it more erotic than it actually was? He thought it was the latter, but...

Aoi's eyes remained locked on his, even as she tipped the sugar cane towards her mouth. Slowly the phallic-shaped candy drifted towards her warm open maw, slid between her thin lips, and into her moist mouth.

And then she...

“Slurrrrp...!"

“Hnnghh...!"

Their hands were still holding upon one another.

Crunch!

“Gah!?"

“Mmfff! So sweet!" Aoi said with her mouth full of chocolate-covered sugar cane.

Their hands separated and Spica pulled back slowly, watching as the beaming Empress chewed upon the sweet treat in her mouth. Whatever erotic allure she was once emitting had suddenly vanished, returning her to the affable older woman he was getting to know... though that didn't fully take away his attraction to her. If anything, the young knight felt even more ashamed of himself.

Just what was going on with his mind? He was supposed to be guiding Aoi around, and – if it came to it – protecting her! But here he was getting aroused by everything the Empress did, no matter how slight! He kept shaking his head to hopefully dispel these lewd thoughts, but they never left him.

They just kept growing!

“Nghh...! E-Empress...!" he spoke up, causing her to raise an eyebrow at him, “You... haaah... you didn't finish your story!"

“Hm? My story?" she muttered whilst swallowing her treat.

“Yes! The one about the Dunbarians! You said they were returning with boats, but you stopped! So... what happened next? Did you go back out with boats? Or did they make landfall and you fought them there? Wh... what happened...?"

“Ah... yes, that day," Aoi said in a thoughtful manner as she nodded, “Well... we stood on Kasumi Beach, our army. The original general grew terrified of Dunbar and its forces as we watched the boats appear on the horizon. He was always an easily frightened man, despite his incredible perception in battle. But he had no strategy to counter so many boats. He was sure it would be a massacre, and we'd be slaughtered when they landed. A lot of us did. But not me..." she took in a deep breath, “I saw it in a dream. All those boats would come to us, and I would be standing on the land pillar that stretches out over Kasumi Beach. And I would... I would... kyu..."

Again she cut herself off, this time because she was blushing. It confused Spica and he looked at her, only to be silenced as her hand reached into her robes. Pulling out her opulent fan, Aoi opened it, and then used it to cover her from the nose down.

“Is something the matter...?" Spica asked.

“Kyuhu... Spica... you know what magic is, right?" she replied.

Slowly he nodded.

“Yes, I know what magic is," he answered, “I don't practice it myself, but my father is very skilled and wise in runic magic. But unlike the kind of runic magic used by others, our runic magic is made up of constellations."

“Kyuhuh... oh... runic magic made of constellations. Jyotisha is such a curious place," Aoi replied, “But the magic I speak of is different. When I joined the liberation force, I did so as a spellcaster. And I quickly learned that I had a high affinity for wizardry. My spells and abilities were far more potent than those used by my contemporaries. I didn't understand it at first, but I soon came to realize it was thanks to the divine power in my blood, no matter how slight. These were Amaterasu's gifts to me. So on the day of the invasion I stood at the edge of Kasumi Beach, and extended my hand to the skies. And I... I..."

“You what...?"

“Hmm... it was so clear that day," she whispered, her eyes closing shut as memories flooded back, “The clearest I had ever seen, I swear. But when I began focusing – and truly focusing – something wondrous happened. The once empty skies grew cloudy, and then the clouds turned gray. I had reached a level of power unlike any seen before in Solaria, not for thousands of years. There I summoned a storm. A mighty storm; the mightiest storm ever experienced. Rain fell like rocks, and the winds were strong enough to lift and throw a feral horse. The storm I summoned quickly washed away the Dunbarian boats, drowning many at sea. Those lucky to survive were quickly taken prisoner by our forces. My power and the former general's cowardice was what propelled me to become leader of the liberation force. We'd fight Dunbar for another two years, but they never truly recovered from the storm I summoned, and our war became political talks. A short while later, and... kyuhu... I was being crowned Empress of Solaria."

Spica hung on Aoi's every word, completely and utterly mesmerized. She summoned a storm? An honest to god storm? That was a level of power he'd only imagined in his wildest fantasies. If one were to gather all of the wizards in Jyotisha in one place, he doubted they'd be able to manage such a feat. To manipulate wind patterns and water molecules... that takes something truly...

Divine...

“To commemorate that day, when I became ruler, the first thing I did was tear down the old castle in Solaria's heart, and create a new one near Kasumi Beach as a symbol for our independence. That day was our first major victory over Dunbar to gain our eventual freedom. Kyuhu... I think of that day every time I lay my eyes on my daughter."

“Glgkg!? D-daughter...?"

Aoi... had a daughter? Aoi was a mother? No one told him Aoi was a mother!? She didn't even tell him she was a daughter!? And this revelation was only going to get worse!

“Kyuhuhu! Oh, not just my daughter, but my two sons as well!" said the Empress with a beaming smile, “My daughter is named after the beach which won our liberation: Princess Kasumi. My eldest son is Hayato, and my youngest child is Iori."

“You... glp... you have a daughter and two sons...?" his face deflated, “I never knew..."

He felt like he'd been punched in the gut, the jaw, and stabbed in the heart all at once. The Empress had children, and here he was longing and lusting for her. If she had children, then it stands to reason that she had a husband, right? And if she did then...

“That man..." Spica said, “That man who got off the carriage with you at the meet up last night..." he sucked in air, “Is he your husband?"

“That man...? My husband...?" Aoi repeated... before... “Glk... gehe... gehehehe! KYUHUHUHUHUHUHU!!!"

She was laughing? Why was she laughing? Had he said something funny?

“You mean Genjirou!? Kyuhuhuhuhu! Genjirou!? My husband!? Kyuhuhuhuhu!!!"

“I-is he not!?" Spica asked.

“No! No no no! Kyuhuhuhuhu! No no no! Genjirou is not my husband, nor is he the father of my children! Genjirou is my knight, my guard. He has protected me since I became Empress of Solaria, and is a man I trust greatly. But that does not make him my lover in any respect."

“He is not...? So... is your husband back in Solaria?"

“Kyuhu... do you... think I have a husband...?" Aoi asked with a soft smile.

“I uh... wh-what... you don't? But... you have children..." he replied in a confused manner.

“One does not need a spouse to have children, Spica," she explained, “I won't deny. Having someone to hug and hold and love at night would be nice... but it is not necessary. My children have no father. Or... well... they have no living father."

“Oh I... oh..." he closed his eyes, mentally kicking himself for the umpteenth time that day, “I'm sorry... I... I didn't mean..." touch, “Huh?"

Her hand fell on his cheek, guiding his gaze back up to meet her face. Aoi was giving a beaming smile, one that quickly lifted his spirits.

“It is fine, Spica..." she said, “You didn't know and you asked. Kyuhu. If there is any fault, it is mine; I sprung the fact that I was a mother on you quite suddenly. I can understand your response, kyuhu."

“I... right..."

He still felt foolish and embarrassed. Of course an older woman – one who is a ruler no less – would have children of some kind to help further cement her rule. And yet hearing that there was no Emperor Solaria – that she did not have a husband – actually instilled within him a sense of hope.

If Aoi was single... then that means they could... he could... he had a...

Chance...

“Spica...?"

“Yes?"

“Are you... going to finish your sugar cane?"

“Huh? Oh... right. Nomph..."

Crunch!

…

Why Spica? Why of all the members of Blackguard – of all the people in Jyotisha – why was her choice Spica? All these plans they had, all the candidates they chose, all of that thrown out the window because she wanted Spica.

Again? Why Spica?

Heze was on edge; of course he would be! An empress was visiting from a distant land, one who could help them usher in new age for Jyotisha. It was imperative that everything went well during her visit, so that their alliance will be a strong one. He and Adhil planned this out for the month leading up to her arrival, only to have the Empress herself toss a wrench into things.

Yes, he'll admit; maybe he's dramatizing this. Spica was just her guide; nothing more, nothing less. His son couldn't ruin their union, could he? No, he didn't believe it. For as arrogant as Spica could be, he wasn't stupid; he knew how important this was for their land and their people.

But Heze was just a naturally cynical man. While he may trust his son despite his failings, he still wanted to mitigate any damage that could occur. That's why he had Blackguard watching over the Empress from afar, and also why he had Zaniah spy on them directly.

Speaking of which...

“Hmm..."

It was evening now in Jeera. The skies were turning red, the air was beginning to cool, and the first few twinkles of stars could be seen. Hours ago his son left to begin his duties as the Empress' guide. Since then, he had stayed here within Blackguard Tower – an area within his estate where he did business as Captain – commanding and coordinating with his knights from afar. This room in particular was his office, and had a balcony from which he could gaze over a good portion of the city.

And it was on that balcony where he heard a sway.

“You may come in, Zaniah," said Heze as he looked over his shoulder.

She stood on his once open balcony, her black hood swaying in the wind, and her golden eyes staring up to him. Pulling off said hood, she walked towards her father then gave him a bow, causing him to do likewise.

“Report Zaniah," said Heze as they straightened up, “How have things gone between Spica and Empress Aoi?"

“Curiously, I'd say," she answered, causing him to raise an eyebrow, “I have been spying on them since they left Menat Hotel. They spent a majority of the day in Orion's Belt. Going to suitors, enjoying treats and the like. When last I checked, Spica took Empress Aoi to Restaurus for dinner. I'm sure they will be leaving it soon."

“I see... and... how did Spica perform...?"

Zaniah grew silent, and she averted her gaze. That was telling.

“Brother... he is... hm...."

“He is... what...?"

“Brother is... acting strange," Zaniah answered, deciding to just be blunt about it, “Usually he can tell when he's being stalked, it's something I've learned about him. He feels eyes, as you know. So I didn't start spying until he and the Empress left the hotel, and..." she shook her head, “He didn't know he was being followed. He was completely focused on the Empress. He did notice Blackguard members standing guard when they made it to Orion's Belt, but he was still completely unaware of me. When he took Empress Aoi to a suitors to try on clothes per her request, I took a gamble and revealed myself to Brother. I let him know I was spying on him to see his reaction... and..."

“And...?"

“And... uh... he was angry... he played it off like he knew I was spying on them, when he didn't. I then left to continue spying and..." she took in a deep breath, “It's as if he forgot I was there at all. The moment he rejoined with the Empress, she took up his attentions."

“So... he's not focusing...?" Heze growled, before turning to face his desk and-- SLAM! “I knew it! The boy cannot... no... he refuses to take anything seriously! He's acting as if this is some joke! As if Jyotisha's future is a joke!"

“I... wouldn't say that, Father," said Zaniah, causing him to look over his shoulder, “It may seem as if Spica isn't focusing but... he is focusing. It's just only on the Empress. And in return, the Empress is focusing only on Spica. She appears utterly enamored with him, even willing to share information that we are not privy to. Personal information."

Heze's eyes grew wide.

“Unknown personal information? Such as what?"

Zaniah shook her head.

“Should I share it? Empress Aoi is our ally..."

Heze nodded, understanding the dilemma at play here. He was primarily focused on whether or not Spica was doing a good job as guide and guard; that did not mean Zaniah's spy skills should be used to gain information on the Empress. That was deceitful, and Blackguard does not deal in lies.

“Then... share with me something you feel is tame," Heze ordered, “Something that you wouldn't feel is private..."

“I... hm... ah! Did... did you know that the Empress has three children?

“She... three children...?" Heze said in a genuinely astonished manner, his gaze shifting elsewhere, “I was unaware of this... I..."

Did Adhil know that Empress had three children? If the sultan did, he hadn't shared it with anyone. This information was light, yet it stunned the Blackguard captain nonetheless.

“My word... and she shared this with Spica, did she?" he asked of his daughter, who nodded, “Huh... tell me... how is the Empress acting around him?"

“She's relaxed," Zaniah answered, “Relaxed enough to act casual around him, and tell him the history of her land up to when she became Empress. I must say, hearing how she became ruler of Solaria is rather awe-inspiring."

“I see... and... how is Spica? Besides focusing entirely on Empress Aoi, is he acting any differently? What is he like?"

Zaniah opened her mouth to speak, but suddenly cut herself off. This caused Heze to raise an eyebrow at his daughter. It didn't take him long to realize that there was more to this than what he was originally aware of.

“Spica is... acting in a way I've never seen him act before," Zaniah said, “He's so... enthralled by the Empress. He doesn't look anywhere but at her. She tells him things and... he tells her things that I've never heard of. He shares his feelings with her... it honestly..." she frowned, “It honestly makes me a little jealous..."

It's one thing to learn the Empress was opening up to Spica about private manners, but its something else entirely to hear his son was doing the same. And from what Zaniah said, it was information even she was unaware of.

Odd. Heze shared his daughter's feelings; it felt strange knowing that his son was opening up to someone who wasn't in the family. Reminded the Captain of days past when Spica was still a boy, and he'd rush to Porrima to share some secret without him hearing. He was captain of Blackguard yes... but he's still Spica's father.

“Thank you for sharing this information with me, Zaniah. You may stand down from your duties."

“Wh-what? You want me to stop spying on Spica and the Empress?" she said, her eyes wide.

“Yes, I do," Heze answered, “If what you say is true, then... it will be unnecessary for us to spy on the two. Spica is clearly doing his job, even if it is unorthodox. And with the rest of Blackguard watching over the city, I know that the Empress will be taken care of. So..." he nodded, “Yes, Zaniah. Stand down."

She opened her mouth as if to say one last thing... but instead a grin adorned her lips and she nodded.

“Thanks, Father."