Author: greyrani

Genre: angst, romance

DAY 850

"Captain Nakajima had sent his aide to investigate about Kawashima Umika's land lord. Also, there was a bill under his name for buying these ingredients."

I took the paper Yuma pass to me as he reported. If Nakajima Yuto had moved, then it meant you, my queen, would also move sooner. The false case of Umika seemed working well seeing how you bought those ingredients to create a silent poison, the one I instructed Umika to ask from you.

"Continue watching," I instructed Yuma.

"As you wish, my king," he answered. "And there is still one matter I need to report."

I arched my brow slightly, signaling him to continue.

"I found a clue about Manami Sayuri, but I'm afraid it was not a good news, Your Majesty."

"What is it?"

"The old maid in Shida manor who had taught medicine to Her Highness was once Manami Sayuri's servant. However, after Her Highness entered the palace, this servant disappeared. Her family who lived in a remote area strangely died when their house was burned. The fire was started simultaneously, and though the old man in that house was known for suffering insomnia, that night he was deep in sleep and didn't even show struggle. I'm sure it was not an accident as reported, but an arson."

"Find whatever it is the reason Shida family has to eliminate that servant," I calmly ordered. "Meanwhile, how about Keito?"

"I haven't found anything suspicious, my king."

I nodded. "Alright, you may leave."

Yuma was exiting the chamber when I remembered something. "Wait."

"Yes, Your Majesty?"

"Lately Amakusa family is bothering me. Keep watch on them, and their communication with Dowager Queen."

Yuma saluted, and I dismissed him. 

I was suspecting another move from my mother's side. Amakusa family and my mother seemed to meet more often lately. I didn't want to miss even the smallest thing. It was not unheard of that even a mother could forsake the bond with her son, wasn't it?

*****

"What are you thinking?" I asked when we spent time together that night. You were half lying while leaning against my chest, yet your mind seemed at somewhere else.

You shook your head, mustering a small smile and answering, "No