An Unexpected Reunion (Kozue) [Finished]

[Yukiko]

Yukiko stretched languorously as she blearily opened her eyes. She was lying under the large weeping willow growing by the stream that flowed past the cottage. Her head was resting in Hayato’s lap as he leaned against the tree itself. To their left lay Hotaka, dozing in the midday sun. Hayato was asleep as well; the peaceful look on his face made Yukiko smile for a moment before she carefully sat up. She rose and strode over to the river, squatting to gather some in her hand to drink.

It never ceased to amaze her that there was such rich vegetation and a healthy stream just a few short miles from the Si Wong Desert. She loved it, though. A beautiful shade tree to nap under during the hot summers and fresh water nearby for all their personal and apothecary needs. She straightened again and looked towards the village. Despite the sunny day and pleasant atmosphere, Yukiko had a feeling something was about to happen. Perhaps another assignment that she would decline since she had yet to kill Konji. The thought of that continuing failure caused her to grind her teeth in frustration. This wasn’t how thing worked for her. She simply didn’t fail like this. She let out an angry sigh and moved to flop down between Hotaka and Hayato. She lay there for some time, staring up at the clouds.

‘If this could go on forever...if I could just...let it all go...I think Id like that. Maybe after Konji, Ill retire...maybe.’’’

[\Mai-Dee/ *Erity* ~Kenzi~]

Being on the run wasn't something she'd expected to be fun but Kozue- Kenzi, Kenzi, Kenzi, remember what you're answering to!- actually enjoyed it more than she'd thought. As a younger child she'd gone on a lot of trips, almost all of the way across the world with her mother and father. Their career as diplomats had kept them moving, and they were always well received so there had been a lot of different playmates as well as the different places to see. The tension of this particular trip, the exodus from her home to escape the uncomfortable marriage she'd had arranged for her, and even the vague confusion on exactly why all of this had come to pass faded under the open skies and scenery.

The rumors she'd heard of her friend Yukiko were vague but unmistakable; there was some vague mention of an assassin with her description and she had probably the most current information on her out of everyone, though it was several years old. She'd left the Fire Nation before its collapse and then disappeared so the chances of her being in the Earth Kingdom or Allied Earth States was very high indeed since it was the largest land mass and had the most unsettled area on top of that. The small towns dotted the entire landscape all of the way to the ominous Si Wong Desert- which is exactly where Kozue had to go.

A few questions asked in town- all description and not a name, just in case. If her friend wasn't going by Yukiko she couldn't fault her for it, especially with a false name of her own. Luckily the people of the town seemed to know her pretty well but not in a gossipy, chatty kind of way. All she got from them, even with her friendly demeanor and warm personality, was that her friend was well, and still with some man she'd claimed and her eel-hound. Smiling and thanking the older woman she'd repeated the directions to Yukiko's distant home in her mind and started down the path toward it.

Though they were so close to the desert there was a distinct moisture in the air and a smell of water- and then a stream came into sight. Kneeling for a moment she scooped up and sipped some water from her hand before shaking her hands dry again and jumping easily over the trickling water to see a large tree with a few figures under it. It was still a good distance off and the figures were mostly indefinite blurs from here, especially without her glasses but as she walked over they became clearer. Hotaka and another figure which had to be Yukiko's companion, with the female form between them.

Still smiling she stepped up within about fifty feet of the tree and raised her hand to wave, hoping that she wouldn't shock her friend so much she'd be unhappy with her presence. From what she remembered Yukiko didn't like surprises or have much reason to. Besides, considering the type of boy her friend had always looked for most likely he'd wake up cranky and with a weapon close at hand. And she might be unhappy later anyway when I tell her why I'm all of the way out here.. "It looks like a good day to sunbathe though this isn't exactly the beach," she said in a calm but cheerful and slightly teasing voice, her eyes and expression showing exactly how happy she was to have found her old school friend. "What happened to the ocean?"

[Yukiko]

Yukiko had begun dozing again when Hotaka nudged her gently. She looked up at him sleepily. “Who is it, Hotaka?” she mumbled, not entirely awake just yet. The hound wasn’t even looking at her anymore. His tail swished slowly through the grass; whoever it was, he recognized their scent. So it was probably one of the villagers or her contact, Chang. She settled into a more comfortable position, closed her eyes and waited for whomever it was to reach them.

A surprisingly familiar voice floated to Yukiko, making her jerk upright. It didn’t belong to anyone in the nearby village, yet she knew it as well as her own. "It looks like a good day to sunbathe though this isn't exactly the beach. What happened to the ocean?" She was on her feet in an instant, whipping around to face her visitor. Of all the people she had expected to drop by, her old schoolmate wasn’t one of them. Yet there she stood, not fifty feet away, waving with delight dancing in her eyes at having found Yukiko. She was flabbergasted. Though it had been nearly twelve years since she’d left it was impossible for Yukiko to forget the sight of Kozue. ‘Gods...she’s grown so much. But it’s her, there’s no mistake. That voice...that hair.’

“Kozue?” Hayato stirred under the tree. He stretched and, with a yawn, stood. Looking between the two women, he walked over to Yukiko and murmured, “Shall I make lunch for three?” Yukiko nodded, seeming to run on autopilot. “Sure...we’ll be in shortly.” Hayato nodded and sauntered off into the cottage. Hotaka, meanwhile, stood and stretched languidly before trotting over to Kozue and nosing her gently. Yukiko followed her hound dazedly. She didn’t feel threatened, especially when Hotaka was so calm about this. When her own sense of danger failed her, his never did. She stopped a few feet from Kozue and just looked her over silently. She had been so certain Kozue had died, along with so many others when the Fire Nation had fallen. Yet here she stood, a full-grown woman. Though several inches shorter than her, Kozue still had that confident, friendly air that Yukiko clearly remembered from their school years. She was still very pretty, though she had filled out quite a bit in the intervening years. But something was missing...

“You’re not wearing glasses...” she murmured, mildly surprised. Those glasses had seemed an almost permanent fixture on the young girl Yukiko remembered. She shook her head to clear her thinking. There was more pressing business to attend to. And while she wanted nothing more than to hug the only other person she had ever considered a friend, such niceties would have to wait. Her manner became very serious, almost cold, as she crossed her arms and said, “Why are you here? No...that can wait. How did you find me?”

‘Kozue may be a friend, but protecting Hotaka, Hayato and my alias is more crucial right now. Ten years of hard work keeping myself concealed will not be tossed aside like the ashes of a fire.’

[\Mai-Dee/ *Erity* ~Kenzi~]

Her method of approach was now starting to look like a better idea than ever; even with the soothing surroundings there was a sense of anxious energy in the air, almost as though not all of the visitors they received at this little grotto were pleasant ones. That was an idea Kozue was used to though and her smile didn't fade or flicker as she came a bit closer, enough so that she could see the expression of priceless surprise on her friend's face as she rose and spoke to the man who headed toward their small home. It looks like she's made a pretty comfortable life for herself. I'm glad to see my old friend faring so well.

The approach of Yukiko's loyal eel-hound brought a wider smile to the red-haired woman's face. Hotaka had always gotten along with her as well as he did with anyone who wasn't Yukiko herself and they'd spent a good deal of time together as children but the pet's loyal memory was comforting and non-judgmental at a time when she secretly needed that kind of support. Leaning down a bit and crooning in an affectionate way she scratched gently under his chin with her long, manicured nails. At some point she'd have to cut those down, it was a sign of wealth, status and tradition she didn't need to be seen with. Too many little hints like that and she'd be discovered for certain.

Hotaka's tail started to wag more exuberantly and his eyes slitted closed at the attention while Kozue cast a glance over at her approaching friend, glad to see that she wasn't angry at her for appearing on her doorstep unannounced. She'd always had a bit of a mercurial temperament and while she'd taken precautions to make sure her friend had no reason to be angry that didn't mean she wouldn't necessarily be. "I'm going by Kenzi now," she told her in a warm but steady tone as she pulled her hand from underneath the hound's chin and gave a quick, informal bow in her friend's direction, fist to palm before patting the hound again.

Of course she would notice the glasses' absence first which made sense because it was one of the things that had really made the girl stand out amongst all of their peers and at times attract a bit of negative attention- though Kozue had never dwelt on it for long. "They're still around, but I don't need them for distances as much as things closer to me. Most of the time I was just reading then." There was a bit of a laugh in her tone as she looked the taller woman over quickly; she'd changed a bit of course, her features had matured and she was a bit taller but since she'd always been taller that Kozue it was all relative to her point of view.

And there was the switch in demeanor that she'd expected in the beginning. It must have taken the shock longer to wear off than she'd expected. Still, Kenzi didn't mind; her friend had never been content with being unsettled, even with good reason. In these times who could really afford to have their safety compromised, even by an old friend with good intentions? It was the same reasoning that had kept her from simply trying to find Yukiko from the Refuge, the safety of her family and an old promise to keep a secret. The older girl may not like her much after the Firebird had told her about the most recent events of the world, and no doubt there were some things that would come as a surprise to her old friend but there was honesty in the telling.

In response to Yukiko's serious tone- she knew this was no time to try and make a small joke or play as she might have once done- Kozue replied, "I found you by paying attention and always asking careful questions. It came to my mind that you might be in hiding too so I never used your old name and I never made mention of where you'd gone when you disappeared twelve years ago and I'm positive I wasn't followed. I'm in hiding as much as you are." Her tone had grown slightly more bitter at the last statement and she took a deep breath and carefully modulated her tone before continuing. "The why of it is a much longer story. I'm hoping you'll let me stay long enough to tell it." There it was, her complete honesty colored only by discretion and her ceaseless desire to put people at ease that made her gild the lily a bit. She needed her friend's help and support- maybe not in the sense that it was life or death, but there were things that needed to be said.

[Yukiko]

“Kenzi, huh?” Yukiko frowned as Kozue explained how she had discovered Yukiko’s location. She hadn’t quite expected Kozue to keep her silence this long. But then again, that was why Yukiko had been willing to keep in contact with her in the first place. Kozue — ‘Kenzi. I should probably start thinking of her as Kenzi.’ — had always kept whatever secrets Yukiko had been willing to divulge. “Well, I suppose things could be worse. You’ve always been intelligent and cautious, so I should be grateful for that. I still go by Yukiko, but not Father’s name. Though I’d still like to know how you even managed to get a current description of me.”

She sighed heavily. She hadn’t missed the bitter tone in her friend’s voice. This was something serious enough to disturb Kozue’s usual calm demeanor, so Yukiko certainly couldn’t afford to take it lightly. But not out in the open. “You can explain everything over lunch. Hayato is undoubtedly making something delectable, since you’re a guest.” She was unsurprised to hear “Kano’s” voice speaking. As far as Yukiko was concerned, this was like a business deal. She would get the facts and determine the best course of action from there.

Without another word, she turned and walked back to the cottage. As she entered, she noted Hayato was bent over the large stewpot Hamako had given them. The delicious aroma of stewing turkey duck permeated the air. A pot of tea and three cups were set on the small table that sat underneath the window by the door. Three rush chairs were arranged around it. She gestured towards them. “Make yourself comfortable. They’re not the cushioned seats you’re probably used to, but they’re nice enough.”

She continued further in and rubbed Hayato’s back. “Almost done?” He straightened and kissed her cheek. “A little while longer. I added a bit of lemon thyme, but some sage would be good too. I’ll go gather some while you two talk.” He walked towards the door. Bowing to Kozue, he said, “I’m sure we shall be properly introduced later. But for now, I’ll leave you two to catch up.” With a sunny smile and another bow, Hayato exited the cottage, carefully closing the door behind him. Yukiko moved to the table and sat down in her usual chair—back to the wall, window to her right. Her staff, adorned with the elemental symbols and concealing her sword Kano, leaned against the wall to her left. Picking up the teapot, she poured herself and Kozue a cup before setting it down again. She sipped the tea, delighted to find that Hayato had made oolong for them. It was her favorite. And he had sweetened it a bit as well.

She smiled briefly before looking at Kozue once more. Setting her cup down, she spoke in the clipped tones of her assassin persona. “I am certain you have a very good reason for seeking me out. But I cut those old ties for a reason, Ko...Kenzi. And though I am glad to learn you survived the fall of the Fire Nation, I wonder why you have decided to seek me out now rather than previously.” She leaned forward and gave Kozue a hard look. “What reason could you have for leaving whatever refuge was set up? And I hope that, whatever it is, it is worth risking Hayato’s safety to help you out of the mess you’re obviously in. Many in this village are supportive of the actions of the Execution Squad and the Burning Legion. Why, I cannot fathom. But nevertheless they do. So kindly explain yourself and do not couch your reasons in lofty doublespeak. Though I have little doubt you will anyway.” She grinned as she said this last. As she recalled, Kozue hated making confrontational statements. In Yukiko’s opinion, she had always been too diplomatic for her own good.

[\Mai-Dee/ *Erity* ~Kenzi~]

There was a certain clipped, professional and almost harsh element to how Yukiko spoke now, but as suprising and saddening as it was she wasn't a complete stranger to those methods either. Almost every general or councilor she'd ever spoken with took this tone when speaking of something they considered vitally important. The surprise and real human vulnerability Kenzi had seen when they'd first spoken after so many years was gone, replaced by this new persona. Everyone had their faces that they wore- but why had she brought about that response? Hadn't she proved her trustworthiness every day for twelve years by keeping these secrets?

That coldness and duality, polite words spoken between harsh assessment- it reminds me of Genji. I hope it's not as deep with you as it is with him.

Nevertheless she kept her smile from fading or flickering, sustained by her warm memories of childhood friendship and hope that somewhere under that darker side there was the real, honestly-warm-if-blunt Yukiko waiting to come out once her General-like side was satisfied. Kozue would just have to use those same tactics that had always helped her at the Refuge council table to assure the older girl that her safety and security was still assured. "Your faith in me is a comfort," she said with a bit of a laugh, eyes flashing a bit in humor. The desire to assure their personal and family's safety didn't make either of them bad people, but Kenzi wouldn't let it turn her into that other person. "Thank you for your invitation."

She patted Hotaka one last time, glad for the eel-hound's undisguised warmth at seeing her again when everything else seemed less welcoming in some ways, and then followed Yukiko at an easy pace into her house. It was obvious that Yukiko ruled everything here and Kozue just managed to hide another chuckle at it. The man who stood by the stewpot seemed for the moment easygoing and friendly, a foil to Yuki's intense focus and tendency toward temper. Nodding at the invitation to sit that was nearly an order she made sat down, though secretly she was a bit hurt at her friends assumptions of her. Did she really expect Kozue to lose all of her manners just because she hadn't abandoned her home at as young an age as Yukiko had herself?

The way her old friend was with her man though- that brought the Countess's hope flooding back. There was still some kind of softness to her. If Kozue could just fight through that bitter, protective shell that same friend was still underneath, not yet dead beneath the weight of her life. That was what Genji had lacked; even when he'd been younger he'd lacked in warmth and he'd let something else kill whatever was left, only remembering it to use like a fine kimono when necessary. Yukiko still had some light in her. It diminished her doubts about having come this far and her confidence grew. Kozue's smile was warm and bright as she nodded to the man and watched him leave before turning her attention back to the person she'd truly come to see.

She couldn't show all of her enthused cheerfulness right now though- not with that professional air and those deliberately impersonal questions. Patiently and with a deep sense of calm she sipped the tea, letting the flavors of it roll over her tongue. She'd grown up appreciating fine tea the way some did wines or other spirits and this was a very good blend, especially considering the rural environment. Of course her thoughts couldn't stay on that long; General Yukiko wanted answers and as much as she chided Kozue's tendency or glaze over the most harsh matters, she didn't reall want the truth either, especially on certain topics. "I've been very careful in coming here to ensure everyone's safety- both yours, to prevent anyone from following me, and the Refuge, to make sure no one can trace my trail back. I know how to do that much. You didn't want to be found, and I respected your privacy in that regard, even though I missed you and hoped you'd found a good life. Then I started hearing about the person who may have been you, and I paid attention."

Kenzi's smile flickered for just a moment before she took another sip of tea, then set it down and replaced her expression of remembered anxiety and realization with one of careful relaxation. This part would require the most delicate telling, but she knew what needed to be said. "I finally left because I realized that my elders who survived hadn't learned from the events that had befallen us, and as much as we wanted to go home the way they intended to achieve that goal were destined to draw even more pain to everyone involved. No one has even discovered the specifics of why we were meant to die or what drove what were loyal soldiers to become so ruthlessly deadly. All they know are the old style of secrets, manipulation and dark alliances. Had I stayed I would already be married to cement one of those treaties, and without a single glance backward they would have forced me to fulfill it."

A single glance sideways as she masked her sorrow and apprehension before meeting Yukiko's steely gaze with her her own steady one. "I don't need anything but some information on where to start looking for answers and to change a few small things to become Kenzi Seiren rather than who I was and allow myself the time to learn what I seek before any old enemies try to finish what they once started before hearing my proposals. If you're not certain of me I'll go without any negative thought of you or your reasons; you didn't ask for me to appear on your doorstep. I just thought of my friend who was always able to help me focus on one thought or another, that Yukiko would at least trust me enough to listen. You have, and I thank you for that- and I apologize for the suddenness of my arrival. I couldn't chance anyone else knowing. If necessary I can compensate you for your time." A small bit of wistful hope shone in her startlingly colored eyes and her smile grew less gracious and more sincere. "It is good to see you though."

[Yukiko]

‘Heard about the person who may have been me? So...rumors about Kano of the Obsidian Blade led her here. Well...infamy is a blessing and a curse. Greater caution is warranted in the future.’

Yukiko picked up her cup once more and leaned back in her chair. Sipping her tea, she listened to Kozue explain her presence in the village and her hope for information. She finished her cup as Kozue ended her long speech. She poured herself another cup and settled back once more, mulling over everything. Though not completely satisfied that she would remain undiscovered, Yukiko had every intention of helping Kozue. Her twelve years of silence alone had earned at least that much, not to mention the years of companionship before that. As she thought, she kept her unreadable gaze on Kozue.

‘She needs information, probably about the E-Squad’s reasons for deposing the Fire Lord. A new identity to keep her safe and mannerisms to remain undetected. She’s got the identity, but the mannerisms might be a bit difficult.’ She snorted slightly at the thought before sipping some more tea. Kozue was adaptable; she always had been. Yukiko turned her thoughts to the marriage that her friend had mentioned. ‘Dark alliances indeed. But with who? Not the AES, certainly. I would have heard about that in a heartbeat. Chang’s people are good for something at least. Neither the South Pole nor the Northern Air Empire, nor any of the Temples. The South is totally isolated, as is the Empire. And the Temples are maintaining neutrality, as usual. And certainly not the Burning Legion. That leaves the North Pole and the Earth Kingdom. Probably the North, since it’s most likely that the Kingdom is sheltering the Fire Nation so there would be little reason to further cement that alliance. Plus, there’s plenty of room there. So...’

“I will help you. It might be difficult, but I will spare no effort. However, I have one more question for you. And I ask that you answer directly because the knowledge will undoubtedly help me to keep you from him. Who could possibly be so undesirable that you would flee your people to escape marriage? What resources will he have that will have to be circumvented?” she said quietly, eyeing her friend over her cup. The answer wasn’t going to change her decision to help Kozue, but she needed to know—who would make her friend flee like this? She sipped again and waited patiently.

[\Mai-Dee/ *Erity* ~Kenzi~]

There were a few long moments where her friend's eyes bore into her like a firebrand, the pressure in the room growing stronger for a moment. It wasn't as though she wasn't used to being around intense people though, and she simply kept herself quiet while the gears in Yukiko's mind spun so loudly she could almost hear them. Something was weighing greatly on her friend's mind, that much was obvious, but which part of the story it was could still be up for some debate. Kenzi could tell that this wasn't the time to ask such questions though, especially since Yukiko had always hated any interruptions. That focus had always been part of what gave the older girl her stubborn strength, but it could also be a sign that she wasn't really listening to anything but her own opinions.

Finally she spoke again and Kozue nodded in simple understanding, setting down the nearly-empty cup she'd been sipping on while they silence had expanded between them. This would be the hard part, for though Yukiko was as honorable as anyone else, and even moreso once her word was given, she did have a habit of changing her mind where family was concerned. Once Kozue and Yuki had been like sisters together, playing and talking about whatever had come to their attention and supporting one another's weaknesses with their corresponding strengths- but Genji was her blood sibling, the last of her family left alive. Though Yukiko hadn't gotten along with him very well they were blood nevertheless and in the ways of their people that called for nearly-constant forgiveness and support.

Taking a deep breath she toyed with her teacup for a moment and gathered her thoughts, eyes cast down and sideways from Yukiko's own steel-and-fire look before returning to it. She wouldn't give her friend less than the truth, especially when it was what she deserved and her reasons for asking made so much sense. Her violet eyes showed only honesty and a bit of sorrow mixed with an uncharacteristic apprehension. If Yukiko heard what she had to say and decided that Kozue had been in the wrong somehow things could become a good deal worse. "General Genji Kazan of the Northern Water Tribe. They wanted me to marry your brother, Yuki."

Now for the reaction from her friend and only hope. If she decides I was wrong my journey could very well end here, with her turning me in. Will she let me down in favor of her brother, or support my decision?

[Yukiko]

As Kozue toyed with her teacup, Yukiko leaned forward to pick up the pot. After refilling the cup, she went to set the pot down again. It was fortunate that she was, otherwise she surely would have dropped it as Kozue answered her. And while she was normally quite good at hiding her emotions, this was nothing like what she had expected. She stared at Kozue in undisguised shock. Her hands lay limply beside the teapot that now safely rested on the table.

Surely this was a mistake. First of all, it was Genji Kozue was talking about. While Yukiko hadn’t exactly had a chance to do any digging for information about her brother—her madcap flee from the North Pole, coupled with hunting for Konji had prevented it—she was fairly certain that he would never agree to marriage. Not only that, but since when would he have become a general? She knew he liked being in control, but he absolutely despised being subservient to anyone. So why would he agree to be a general in the North when he would still be required to answer to someone for his deeds? Her mind seemed stuck as she tried to come to terms with this.

‘Genji...a general? I knew he was in the North Pole...but I never thought...A general? And they chose him to be the husband in this political marriage? What insanity! Anyone with half a brain would know that wouldn’t be wise! He’s never shown even the slightest interest in men or women!’

As she continued to stare at Kozue, the cottage door opened once more and Hayato entered. In his hand were several sprigs of sage. Glancing at Yukiko, he raised an eyebrow at the look on her face. “Well...I haven’t seen you look so surprised since Grandmother suggested we get married,” he said dryly. He walked over to the stewpot, shredding the sage as he went, and mixed it in. As he stirred the pot, Yukiko shook her head. He had always been a breath of fresh air to her right when she needed it most. She sometimes wondered if he planned it that way. She stood and started pacing, the better to think about Kozue’s shocking revelations. She found herself faced with two difficult decisions. Should she believe that Kozue was correct—Genji was one of the Northern Generals—or not? And if she chose to believe it, should she still help her old friend?

‘If I’m honest with myself, I should believe Kozue. Genji’s perfectionist attitude would explain many things about the Northern troops that has been niggling at me. The lessened numbers of their casualties in the Bulwark, rumors about the Tempest...yes, it could be because of Genji...’ She sighed heavily and ran a hand through her unbound hair. Much as she wanted to deny it, there had to be something seriously wrong with Genji if Kozue didn’t want to marry him. Kozue was one of the most accepting and tolerant people Yukiko had ever known. It had often reminded her of her father—one of the many reasons she had let Kozue into her life. She rubbed her face with her hands, suddenly very tired. This wasn’t going to be a cakewalk, but neither would it be overly difficult. If she knew anything at all about her brother, it was that he would be reluctant to chase after something that he didn’t really want—even to keep up appearances.

She slowly returned to her chair and settled into it once more. Her eyes looked at nothing in particularly, still lost in her musings. Indeed, she didn’t speak again until Hayato set a bowl of stew in front of her. Then she at last noticed that both he and Kozue were seated at the table, each with a bowl before them. “Oh. Thank you, Hayato.” She didn’t immediately move to eat, but she did finally come to a conclusion. She looked at Kozue again. “I said I would help you, Kenzi, and I will. I still find it difficult to believe that it’s Genji you run from, but I suppose it’s something I’ll have to come to terms with later. For now, let’s eat and we can discuss the exact details of my help afterwards. All right?”

[\Mai-Dee/ *Erity* ~Kenzi~]

The shock on Yukiko's face aged her more than the sum of her actual years, but that was something Kenzi had expected. She'd never had any siblings, just her friends and the sometimes-odd family arrangements of being related to royalty, where lineage was often more important than sense- but she could understand. An echo of that same surprise had struck her when she'd seen Genji again, and heard of Yukiko's persona, and if it was about kinship and blood the situation had to be multiplied at least a hundredfold. What if she'd heard that her father was still alive? Then again, Kozue knew he was dead, had seen the effects of it firsthand.

There was really nothing she could say to comfort her obviously perturbed friend, so she simply sat in silence and watched the pacing, her eyes kept steadily down at her tea. There was time to let her sort through all of this, work through all of the things that Kozue had brought back to the girl. It was even more obvious how well the secrecy of the planning and movements had been kept that the well connected mercernary- or assassin- hadn't even had an inkling of it. At least she knew that the real secret behind the Refuge was still holding strong and that the Earth Kingdom was still their greatest allies, protecting them to this day. The elder's secret schemes to ally with the Water Tribe were even more underhanded from that perspective.

Creaking hinges and footsteps nearby drew her gaze up and she gave her friend's- husband? boyfriend?- a glance before taking another sip of tea. His statement drew a small smile to her lips and she was grateful for the excuse to focus on something besides her own concerns involving Yukiko's state of mind. At least this man seemed to be able to cut through whatever was holding her back and allow her to move on, and Kenzi was grateful for that as well. If her fiance had been more of that sort of person she likely would never have objected, but that wasn't in Genji's nature. That fact, on top of the political pressure and too long of being kept in the dark was what had pushed her away. It had nudged her on the path to what her real destiny was, or at least what she hoped it would be.

Bowls of soup were set onto the table and the younger Firebender murmured a gracious 'thank you' to the cook and gave him a warm smile, which he returned though in a far more reserved fashion. He was soon seated and set a bowl down next to the thoughtful-looking Yukiko; that seemed to snap her out of her reverie and she actually spoke. Evidently her companion's name was Hayato, something she hadn't known before, but she could do no more than smile a bit wider and hope that Yukiko would remember the introductions when she wasn't so preoccupied.

What Yuki said was no great surprise and Kozue nodded to show she understood quite clearly what she meant, even if she hadn't said it. Her brother was her blood, she didn't believe he could do anything really wrong, but she would listen to what I thought was 'wrong' and help without really changing her mind. Well, that was up to Genji's sister, and Kenzi had no control over her thoughts, or even the time to really change her mind. "I understand, there's always time to speak a little later," she agreed readily, then set aside her teacup and took a polite sip of the soup. The real conversation would just have to wait until another time.

[Yukiko]

As Yukiko began to eat, she finally realized she had yet to introduce Hayato. She was so surprised by this, her spoon stopped halfway to her mouth. More than little embarrassed, she set her spoon back in her bowl. “My manners have completely left me. Kenzi, this is Hayato Ishinomori. He’s the grandson of the village healer and my master, Hamako. Hayato, this is Kenzi. She’s a childhood friend of mine.” Hayato nodded to Kozue murmuring a brief greeting before continuing to eat. The rest of the meal passed in silence, save for the sounds of eating and the occasional clink as Hayato would refill their cups.

When Yukiko had finished, she leaned back in her chair. She sighed contently as Hayato began clearing away the dishes. “As always, you make a delightful meal, Hayato.” He kissed her forehead gently. Refilling their cups one last time, he went back outside to clean up. Yukiko plucked a piece of wood up from beside her chair, along with her carving knife. It had already begun to take shape as a turtle duck. She resumed her carving, her movements smooth from years of practice. She wondered whom she should get in touch with first, what sort of outfits Kozue would need—the whole shebang, really. She silently carved for several moments as she pondered. At last, she broke the silence. “So...what exactly were your plans, Kenzi? I’ll help the best I can, but I’ll need to know where you want to head, what you intend to do. Basically, what do you need from me?”

[\Mai-Dee/ *Erity* ~Kenzi~]

It was a sign of just how deeply lost in thought her friend was that she forgot the etiquette they'd been trained in as a child and Kozue couldn't fault her for that; her home had never been one to stand too much on ceremony, and honestly that was a refreshing sign. "It's an honor to meet you, Hayato," she said in a quiet tone to the older man, giving him a warm smile and bowing her head respectfully before returning to her food. He really was an excellent cook and her smile between bites was bright, as were her spirits. Good food could hopefully lighten Yukiko's mood even more, as could the time to think and put all of the pieces of her nerves back into order without the interruptions and distractions of questions that needed to be answered first. After this there were only details to work out, and those could wait. So long as the Countess was sure to keep her friend's anxieties from bubbling in a full boil they could easily run through the smaller things once the quiet meal was cleared away.

Once everyone was done eating Yukiko complimented the food; it seemed like a private moment, and Kozue didn't want to intrude so she just nodded in agreement and slid her bowl where it could be easily reached. Another moment of surprising closeness between the pair and Hayato stepped outside, leaving the room in silence once more- but at least it was more comfortable. The tension had dissipated enough that it seemed easier to imagine that the two of them had once been friends, and Kozue was content to wait until her host spoke before trying to cut in. It was never a good idea to rush Yuki's thoughts or words and the Countess had more than enough patience and intelligence to manage, especially when she knew that taking too much control would only set the entire relaxation process back to its starting place.

The sound of a sharp knife moving through wood was the only thing to be heard for quite a few minutes, and then the dim household sounds were cut by her friend's voice, a bit less rough than before but still holding some of their businesslike tone. "I want to find out why everything went the way it did five years ago," she told Yukiko sincerely but without panic or anger. "But I know that going back home is a really bad idea at this point, and probably wouldn't get me the answers I want; they may still want to kill my family. Instead I think I'll go to the Bulwark and learn what I can there while helping to stop this Spirit Rift. It's not right to hide and worry about our safety while other people stay out there and die fighting demons." A small smile, a glimmer of her old self, came across her features. "I have a little money and supplies, enough that I can survive on my own; what I really need is the information to fit into the new world. We ended up a bit reclusive and hidden for safety's sake and the world just.. Passed us by." Hopefully that wasn't asking too much.

[Yukiko]

Yukiko listened quietly as Kozue laid out what she was after. As she patiently whittled away at the wood, she turned over every detail in her mind. Kozue was curious about the fall of their nation—understandably so. Yukiko had also wondered about the Execution Squad’s purpose in destroying the monarchy that had ruled the Fire Nation for untold generations. But Kozue was right—returning to the islands was an unwise move right now. The Squad was pretty firmly entrenched, but what few reports she received from that quarter indicated infiltration wouldn’t be easy. Kozue’s other choice, however...

“The Bulwark, huh? I’ve heard a lot about the Rift—none of it good, obviously.” She held the carving up to the window, the better to illuminate it. She eyed it critically, not quite satisfied with the shape of the shell. As she began making slight adjustments, she continued. “I don’t know what you’ll find there, but if that’s where you want to head I won’t stop you. As for how to fit into your new environment, that shouldn’t be too difficult. A slight change in outfit, less of a noble air...and you’ll definitely have to lose the nails.” Yukiko chuckled. Her own nails had never been that long—no swordswoman in her family did because it was easier to wield without them—but she knew that most wealthy women took very good care of their nails and often grew them to rather surprising lengths.

“Hmmm.... For the outfits, I’m sure I can make some small adjustments to whatever you have so it blends in better.” She looked at Kozue, her eyes twinkling in amusement. “The air of privilege you have is going to be harder to get rid of. That’s really not something you’ll ever be rid of entirely, of course. But...stiffen your shoulders a bit. Don’t keep your body so relaxed. It’s too...confident. You want to seem sure of yourself, but wary as well—as though you’ve had a decent enough life, but it’s never been easy.” She returned her attention to the carving, turning it over and over in her hands to assess every angle. She smiled, pleased with how it was forming so far. “As for money and supplies...I think I can make things a little easier on you in that respect. I’ve made many...acquaintances in my travels that would be quite willing to help out a friend of mine,” she said, her eyes narrowing as she put the finishing touches on the turtle duck. “And no doubt some of them would happily accompany you to the Bulwark, if they’re not there already.”

Finished at last, she held up a near-perfect likeness of a turtle duck—carved entirely from memory. She looked at Kozue and grinned. “Not bad, huh?”

[\Mai-Dee/ *Erity* ~Kenzi~]

Yukiko had always been a rational person, good at planning and far more observant than most people gave her credit for- as long as her temper hadn't been prickled beyond all reason, of course. Luckily the mood had relaxed after the meal had ended and Kozue had given the older woman the answers she needed. Not having all of the immediate facts obviously eaten away at Yuki's calm in a way that Kozue hadn't anticipated, but at least she hadn't pressed for more information about where her family was hiding. That was something the Countess couldn't risk revealing at this point, even if it lost her the last friend she probably had in the world. She'd given her word and wouldn't take the chance on breaking it if there wasn't an absolute necessity.

"I'm not expecting this Bulwark to be a picnic, or even really pleasant," Kozue assured Yukiko as she continued to whittle at the figure in her hand, hearing the slightest tone of actual concern under her officiousness. It was almost like she was ready to stop being completely professional and come out of her shell. "I know enough history to understand that battle is never pretty- neither were the things I saw when my family was chased out of our homeland for reasons unknown, but I need to know why so many died and to fight against the threat of the Spirit Rift. There's no point in hiding when more can be accomplished for the good of all by taking a chance." There was a bit of fire in Kozue's eyes as she spoke, showing her conviction in her own words and the determination to push as far as she needed to.

Yukiko's suggestions were always very apt but in some ways confused the red-haired girl a bit; she'd known she would have to get rid of her manicured nails and simplify some of her clothing but to change her mannerisms completely? It wasn't as though there were no other countries with nobility or other wealthy occupations. Had they really been gone for so long that no one else had any kind of prosperity or faith in the world working itself out? "I was planning on the clothes and this manicure, those will actually be kinda nice to have some alterations to. With all of the councilors keeping me under scrutiny for the wedding preparations I couldn't get away with anything." A light laugh left her mouth which she covered with her hand, more out of habit than actual modesty. "The rest of it I'll have to work on though, and I'd be grateful for any friends you trust if they want to help. I was thinking that, for a cover story, I'd say that I was from a well-off merchant family that left the Fire Nation about ten years ago, with a summer home in a rural portion of the Allied Earth States. That could help explain my knowledge base and the wealthy accoutrement as well as my Firebending, and it's still vague enough to be adaptable. Will that suffice?"

She'd just managed to voice her answer when the tiny, carved figurine was set down in front of her, Yukiko's face showing her obvious pride in the work. It really was well-crafted and beautiful as well as bringing back some very bright memories of her childhood, where the turtle-ducks swam in whatever body of water they could find, including the garden ponds. Smiling brightly and with great care Kozue picked up the statuette and looked it over, careful not to mar any of the fine work with her fingernails and cheerfully saying, "It's fantastic, you have a great eye for detail. Where did you learn to do that?" It definitely wasn't one of the classes they'd taken at the Academy.

[Yukiko]

Yukiko considered Kozue’s cover story as her friend examined the carving. It was a fairly plausible explanation for many of Kozue’s mannerisms. And it would certainly explain away the Firebending, her vast knowledge, and her possessions as well. There was just one slight problem...

“It’s a plausible story, yes. But if you were a refuge, even in the Allied Earth States, you wouldn’t be even half as confident as you appear, Kenzi.” Yukiko leaned back in her chair and stared out the window. She remembered one family that had settled in the Earth Kingdom—they had actually been old friends of her father’s family. She’d grown up with their kids, had had play dates with them when she was young. The reunion had been somber, to say the least. “I’ve met many such people in my travels. They still have the air of entitlement, but it’s been tempered by being so thoroughly uprooted from the one place they called home.” She looked at Kozue, her gaze melancholy. “That’s why I suggested stiffening your stance. You’re less likely to stick out that way. The more you change, the safer you are...though it can be difficult to remember it all. That's why I go for many, simple changes that are easy to memorize.”

Though the thought of the Nation’s fall — and all its refugees — saddened her, she couldn’t help but feel pleased and proud at Kozue’s delight over the figurine. “You can have it, if you like.” This was one of the few habits she kept from her life in the Fire Nation. She had loved working with her hands, especially after her summer with the Sisters of the Eastern Air Temple. She had learned many skills there, though this wasn’t one. “It’s something Genji used to do.” She smiled softly at the thought—her brother had been exceptionally skilled at woodcarving. Had he carved the turtle duck, it would’ve seemed alive. “He would start carving whenever he wanted to give serious thought to something or just to distract himself when he didn’t feel like training, but needed distraction. We had a room in the house dedicated to housing all his carvings...they’re probably destroyed now,” she added sadly. “I didn’t think to bring any with me when I left.”