The Daimyo's Residence in Kyoto
Two days have passed in the blink of an eye since that 'unforgettable' night at the hot spring inn. During these forty-eight hours, Minato and Shisui have kept Koki under tight protection, not giving Kohaku even the slightest chance to get close to Koki.
At first, Koki felt a little uncomfortable with their overprotective behavior, but he knew very well that Minato and Shisui were being so cautious out of good intentions, in order to prevent any unexpected situations from happening.
Therefore, despite some inner resistance, Koki chose to silently comply and actively cooperate with their arrangements.
Meanwhile, Kohaku on the other side seemed to have lost his soul, becoming a completely different person. He no longer relentlessly pursued Koki as before, but instead spent his days in a daze and listless state.
His once bright and spirited eyes were now dull and lifeless, and he looked like a wilted eggplant, devoid of any vitality, completely lacking his former vigor and spirit.
That once arrogant gaze now carries a hint of dejection.
Seeing their young master in this state, Kohaku's dozens of loyal guards and ninjas were extremely anxious.
They stayed by Kohaku's side all day long, constantly offering words of comfort and care.
Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned. Their efforts were met with no response from Kohaku. Instead, they were met with a barrage of endless insults and accusations.
Koki Kohaku's behavior, Koki felt even more that he was just a spoiled rich kid who didn't know the hardships of life.
He grew up in luxury, pampered and spoiled, like a flower in a greenhouse, only knowing how to be self-centered, and throwing tantrums and being willful when things don't go his way.
These past two days, even when their eyes accidentally meet, Koki quickly looks away.
Kohaku, being a pampered young master, is prone to mood swings, and no one can predict what he will do next.
As the group continued their journey, they drew ever closer to their destination Land of Fire.
Kohaku sat quietly in the sedan chair, gently lifting the curtain to gaze at Koki. Resentment grew wildly in his heart like weeds—he couldn't understand why Koki was always so indifferent to him.
When have I ever been so ingratiating towards anyone?!
"We've finally arrived!"
As the sun set and the day came to an end, the group traversed countless mountains and rivers, finally stepping through the solemn gates of the Kyoto of Land of Fire.
As soon as Koki stepped into the city, she was deeply attracted by the bustling and vibrant scene before her.
Unlike the narrow streets of Konoha, Kyoto City's streets are wide and orderly, paved with smooth bluestone slabs that gleam softly in the sunlight.
Shops lined both sides of the street, colorful flags fluttering in the breeze, and signs displaying a dazzling array of shop names and product descriptions.
The herbal medicine shop was filled with the strong aroma of Chinese herbs, and the shop assistants were busy moving around. Inside the weapon shop, all kinds of weapons were arranged in an orderly manner, and their cold, sharp light gleamed under the lamp, attracting the attention of many martial artists and ninjas.
In the silk shop, colorful silks and satins hung like waterfalls, light and flowing, a breathtaking sight that attracted many noblewomen and young ladies to linger.
The streets were teeming with people, shoulder to shoulder.
The elegantly dressed nobleman, holding a folding fan, exuded a refined demeanor as he chatted and laughed with ease.
A lithe warrior, sword at his waist, walks with firm steps, his gaze piercing, exuding an imposing aura.
Ordinary people, carrying loads on their shoulders or pushing carts, busily moved through the streets and alleys.
Children played and chased each other, holding sugar figurines, windmills and other trinkets, adding a touch of vitality to the bustling street scene.
The streets were filled with the sounds of vendors hawking their wares, shouting, laughter, and the hustle and bustle of vehicles. Acrobats displayed their talents, some doing somersaults, others performing magic tricks. Their superb performances won rounds of applause and cheers from the audience.
After wandering around for a long time, Koki's hands were full of various items from the street.
"Since you're here, please come and rest at my residence." Kohaku gently lifted the sedan curtain, looking at Koki's smile, and spoke softly.
"This..." Koki really wanted to go and see, but she still hesitated.
Seeing this, Kohaku felt a pang of sadness and pain in his heart. Was he really that frightening to him? He said softly, "Don't worry, I won't bother you anymore."
"In that case, let's go."
Since Minato agreed, Koki nodded in agreement as well, since he was also quite curious about what the Daimyo Prefecture was like.
In the heart of the city, the Daming Mansion stands proudly like a giant beast, Koki looks up at its majestic gate tower.
The gate was majestic and expansive, constructed of heavy solid wood, with golden rivets and exquisite decorations complementing each other, showcasing its nobility and majesty.
Before the gate stood two rows of gleaming armored guards, their black iron armor reflecting the cold glint of their spears, their imposing presence inspiring awe.
All the soldiers, ninjas, and staff bowed respectfully to Kohaku, but he ignored them, simply saying to Koki indifferently, "Come in."
Koki nodded and followed him inside.
Upon entering Daming Mansion, a spacious courtyard unfolds before you, dotted with well-arranged rockeries and ponds. Following the smooth stone path, you arrive at the main hall of the mansion.
The main hall is magnificent, with upturned eaves, carved beams and painted rafters, displaying the utmost luxury. The hall is well-heated, and the floor is covered with thick carpets that are soft and comfortable to walk on.
The calligraphy and paintings hanging on the walls are lifelike, and the crystal chandelier hanging from the ceiling shines brightly, making the entire hall as bright as day.
Various rare furniture and decorations are arranged in a pleasing manner, including sandalwood tables and chairs, jade artifacts, and gold and silver utensils, each piece of which is priceless.
After leading everyone into the incredibly luxurious hall of the Daimyo's residence, Kohaku turned slightly to Minato, Koki, and the others, saying, "Please wait here for a moment."
With that, he waved his hand lightly and left alone.
A dozen or so maids appeared gracefully like colorful butterflies, dressed in matching pink kimonos with light blue sashes around their waists, their steps light and elegant.
These maids were well-trained and quickly got to work, each performing their duties.
Several maids steadily carried delicate trays with sets of pure white porcelain cups on them. They took small, quick steps to the group, squatted slightly, and gently placed the cups on the low table beside them.
Then, several other maids came over carrying water jugs. They skillfully tilted the jugs slightly, and the clear water flowed into the cups like silver threads, steaming hot and releasing a fragrant aroma of tea.
This tea is a top-grade tea specially supplied by Daming Prefecture. The brewed tea soup is emerald green in color and has a delicate aroma. Just smelling the aroma of this tea is enough to make people feel refreshed and relaxed.
Several maids then came over carrying various exquisite pastries. These pastries were uniquely shaped, some into cute little animal shapes, and others like blooming flowers. They placed the pastries on the table one by one, and the sweet aroma instantly filled the air.
Throughout their service, the maids maintained a smile, a respectful gaze, and gentle, meticulous movements.
Witnessing all this, Koki couldn't help but marvel at the luxury and refinement of the Daming Mansion. He gently raised his teacup, took a sip, and the delicate fragrance slowly spread in his mouth.
This is no different from being an emperor; no wonder the Kohaku looks like this.
Koki pondered to herself, gaining a deeper understanding of Kohaku's personality.