The group of Masahiko, Cho, and Kazuya along with Masahiko's retinue of Imperial Guards made their way from the now cluttered Nabeshima residence to the Akiyama provinces. Masahiko's guard was intercepted by Lord Akiyama Jiro himself. At this moment, Jiro was on his knees in front of Masahiko's horse. The day was sunny and pleasant. However, the whole atmosphere was tense.

The Prince looked down at Jiro. There was something about Jiro that he genuinely disliked about the man. His hands clenched into fists.

"You may rise, Lord Akiyama." Masahiko's voice told him calmly.

Cho turned to Kazuya. She looked worried, but whatever happened, she knew it was for the best. Strangely, she turned to Kazuya for support. She didn't feel like she had to compete with her brother now. She was slowly learning how to work with her brother as a teammate. But there was still plenty of room for friendly competition.

Jiro looked up at the Prince, but didn't make direct eye contact. He knew it would be seen as a challenge and Jiro was not up to it. He stood and looked over to his own guards, motioning for them to let them past. Jiro got on his horse.

"We are honored to have you in our presence. Please allow us to escort you to the town and show you where you will be staying, should it please you." Jiro looked down.

Seeing Cho with the Prince was like a sword to his heart. He felt lost without her. The woman who he relied on to keep him from doing things that were reckless. Now he was thrown out on his own and it was a bit awkward each day.

Cho just smiled halfly and Masahiko just followed Jiro wordlessly.