It so happened that during the time Kaiki so helpfully showed his heart, that the ambassador from far away islands returned as well. Those who had been paid to deliver my message did so, ensuring that Aata appeared outside my door within mere days of his return. Confident in his invitation in, he came during the late evening hours, confusing the ettiquitte even more, a sign that he was here to play. He knew well the ways of the court, but also had an uncanny grasp of gossip that made even the long-time residents of the palace uncomfortable.
Metori had thankfully already assumed that something like this would happen, taking special care with her quarters each day. Mid afternoon snacks of fruits and fresh candies with juices and flavored teas were a hit with the ambassador, winning the res
