The arrival of spring brought cool ocean winds that rippled across the the waves.

In the morning, Masahiro was dutifully packing away his things in preparation for the long journey when a solemn Narachika appeared at his door.

Im sorry to say that the reports and paperwork regarding the incident are not yet complete, please be prepared to head out the day after tomorrow, or possibly the day after that..eh Thinking back, Masahiro had realized that Narachika had always hated paperwork like this, and his lack of enthusiasm often leading to prolonged delays for which he was frequently reprimanded.

Well then. Masahiro unpacked his things, put on a fresh set of clothes and set out for the village instead with Mokkun and Taiin in tow.

Although his injuries had mostly healed, his strength was slow the catch up.

The fresh air of the country side would be a good change from the that of the stuffy manor.

Was she just seeking any excuse to shed her burden of guilt Seimei quietly observed her expression and smiled at her as she turned to look at him.

Ive just received an order from the palace to pray for Shoukos recovery.

Seimei nodded sincerely, and then looked over meaningfully at Tenitsu.

She acknowledged with a nod and stood, quietly approaching the pair.

Thats enough for tonight, Princess, please take care to rest early.

Akiko nodded without protest and stood, pulling her robes tighter around her shoulders.

Good night then She bowed to Seimei and after a pause, waved to her small audience of mononoke as well.

He smiled as he saw them, a bitter troubled smile.

Ah.I was wondering about all the noise, so its you guys, I see.

At the arrival of the master of the manor, the small spirits ceased their clamoring and each stood politely at the wall, greeting Seimei with puffed out chests and refined posturing.

Hello Lord Seimei You look as young as ever You should come visit us something.

Seimei signed at the gathered spirits before taking a seat next to Akiko.

Lady Akiko, you look a bit pale, what have they said to you Seimei cast his gaze to the two fidgeting mononoke, before settling his questioning gaze on Suzaku and Tenitsu.

A moment of tense hesitation passed before Suzaku nervously cleared his throat and quietly answered.

They had informed us that Lady Shouko at the Palace has fallen very ill, and her palace induction ceremony ha.

In her own home, in the hose of Fujiwara, there were occasionally days where she seldom saw anyone but her own servants.

Even though the family members lived in different courtyards, she didnt feel isolated or lonely there.

Everyday, she saw Masahiro off to the bureau, she helped out around the house here and there, and picked up a few new skills in the process.

With Seimeis seemingly endless stories, time went by even more quickly, and before she knew it, Masahiro was home, and she greeted him at the door, daily and without fail.

Sometimes, she would stealthly leave her quarters at night to see Masahiro off to his nightly patrol.

Shounen Onmyouji Novel Translation