Rai Shen escorts his Mother and younger siblings to his mothers courtyard. He places Shinah on the bed next to his youngest brother, covering them both under a blanket.
He then kneels down facing his Mother.
"Forgive me Mother, I don't mean to speak out of turn but, do you remember what happened to Concubine Ah?"
Akira's eyes become clouded with unfallen tears and nods in response.
"We cannot ... repay with kindness- against those that wouldn't hesitate at the opportunity to forsake Shinah like that.
I'm sorry Mother but for her ... we can't afford the luxury of trust, until she's able to protect herself, not even your sister may know.
We don't know what kind of schemes they'll cook up, and if Little Shinahs existence alone makes them uncomfortable, imagine if they knew of her potential..
Don't let them cut the stem before it has a chance to bloom. Be confident this time around Mother, you're a lot stronger now and you have your sons protecting you this time around.
Forgive me for opening up old wounds.. but I believe; that pain serves as a reminder for us, that it could happen to any of us who accepts to live in ignorance."
Silent crystal clear tears fall down Akira's face. Shen takes her silence into consideration before pulling her into a hug.
"It will be different this time Mom, I will not let you suffer any injustice or grievances. Be strong for them, don't hesitate to slaughter all that oppose you."
Akira grabs Shen's hands "I will not let them share the same calamity that took your sister and Aunt. I promise!"
"Good, what ever you don't like, just kill. I'll back every move you make.
Now relax while you can. Those little ones demand a lot of attention. I'll pick up Shinah tonight after the meeting. Rest well."
———
In Shinah's Mindscape
Shinah's conscious was pulled into her Mindscape.
Woah! Did it get bigger here too? Why are there so many plants.
Holy crap is that a deer?
*Ping! Unlocked Charm, View Settings*
*Ping! New Message from Master Xiaolong*
Mmm where is that little dragon at.
I swipe the screen to view XiaoLong's message.
*Ping! Playing Recording from Master XiaoLong*
["Hello how does this work? Hello.. it says it's recording... Shinah I .... never mind .. the influx of spirit energy helped me recover some important memories I lost during the transfer to your Mindscape.
I'll be in seclusion cultivating for a while, but when I return let's make some time to talk alright?
I planted some herbs that will aid in cultivation help yourself to all the resources here from the water to the fruits and livestock I leave everything in your care.
I left some notes on the bath stone, practice it's contents in your Mindscape only. Do not cultivate this technique outside. Oh and .. take ..care of yourself... that's all bye... System end the recording"]
Aww that little dragon still cares about me.
I walk over to the pond, which has grown into a considerably large lake.
There was a blue cloth book resting on the stone bath, I lean against one of the trees and begin to read.
!!!
What even is this! Notes? More like a damn manual on how to be a farmer! I have to follow all theses rules just to care for some plants and animals.... damn you Xiaolong!
The back of the book did have some cultivating techniques but now I'm not in any mood to follow dumb XiaoLongs instructions.
I toss the book and begin tending to the plants.
Why is there so many! Next time I level up I'll focus on not expanding my Mindscape... I would have been fine with a little space for a contracted spirit beast. But this ... is a little excessive.
I'm so hungry ... and irritated... and hungry.
Sheesh I'm hungry..
I release my subconscious out my Mindscape.
"Mmm hungry, food... I need food." I rub the tiredness out my eyes.
"Wow little brat, I thought I had a one track mind but you certainly got me beat!" Kiyoshi pinches Shinahs nose and picked her up off the bed. "Come on let's get you cleaned up, your breath reeks. Second Brother already sent Ya Ling to prepare dinner."
"Ouch..Your breath reeks Kiyoshi! It's bad just like you!" I cry childishly, covering my mouth.
He chuckles and pushes me into the wash room, standing on the opposite side of the door.
I wash up and get angry when I notice my red nose in my reflection in the water. I slam open the door hitting Kiyoshi's back in the process. I point at my nose and glare at him!
He attempts to suppress his laughter and I stomp on his foot.
"Hmph you laugh like monkey"
"Well at least I don't look like one.." he grabs ahold of my hand and we walk out the doors of my mothers courtroom.
I see Akuma and my mother sitting at the table surrounded by food.
"Second Brother..Second Brother ...Kiyoshi bullied me!" I run towards Akuma for comfort..not forgetting to sell out Kiyoshi.