"They've left, Your Highness," Sayi said softly, having noticed the two people in the tree.
"They were just little kittens, nothing to worry about," Kaguya replied with a light laugh, glancing at the now-empty tree branches.
She wasn't surprised by their arrival—what surprised her was that they left without doing anything. Had they discovered something?
If that was the case, it would indeed be unexpected.
"Your Highness, please take this seriously," Sayo's pretty face turned serious. "Even though you're powerful, if you're careless, the enemy could exploit that and cause unnecessary trouble."
"I know, I know," Kaguya smiled, pinching Sayo's cheek playfully. "You're becoming quite the little housekeeper."
"I'm not joking," Sayo said, a little annoyed by Kaguya's nonchalance. "Please be serious."
"I will be," Kaguya said seriously before her face broke into a playful smile again. "It's late; time to sleep."
"Goodnight then, Your Highness." Sayo smiled, bowed, and turned to leave.
"It's so late. Don't go back; it's not safe at night," Kaguya said, pulling Sayo's hand with a smile. "Stay here and sleep with me."
"I-I can't do that," Sayo stammered.
"Why not?" Kaguya tugged Sayo into her embrace. Sayo was shorter, making her seem even more delicate in Kaguya's arms.
"But it's against the rules," Sayo said hesitantly, her face flushed.
"Rules are made by people," Kaguya replied, smiling at Sayo. "And here, I make the rules."
"But…" Sayo fidgeted with her clothes, uneasy.
"No buts," Kaguya said, leading Sayo toward the bedroom. "If we keep this up, it'll be morning."
The Princess's bedroom was spacious, with a soft, luxurious carpet and walls painted in warm, soft colors. The furniture was elegantly carved from fine ebony, featuring floral and bird motifs, giving the room a refined and elegant feel. The ceiling boasted a crystal chandelier, casting a gentle glow.
The centerpiece was a large, ornate bed with a white finish made from precious pear wood, intricately carved with various patterns. The bed was covered in soft, luxurious down blankets, exuding a pleasant scent. Above it was a light yellow canopy, fresh and elegant.
The bed was large enough to comfortably accommodate four or five people.
"I'll sleep on the sofa," Sayo said, forcing a smile, feeling a bit awkward.
"That won't do; it's chilly, and you'll catch a cold," Kaguya replied firmly, pulling Sayo onto the bed with a playful smile. "Sleep with me."
"I'd rather not," Sayo said, sensing danger as she tried to get up.
Seeing Sayo trying to escape, Kaguya pounced, pinning her down and holding her slender waist.
Sayo's slender, graceful figure was surprisingly well-built, likely due to years of training—soft yet firm, unlike many women who appeared shapely but felt flabby.
"Please, don't," Sayo protested weakly, her face turned away, her blush deepening.
"We're both girls; there's nothing wrong with sleeping together," Kaguya said, her tone serious yet playful.
"But—mmph."
Sayo tried to speak, but Kaguya silenced her with a kiss, leaving Sayo only able to whimper softly.
At the same time, a delicate hand slid inside her collar.
The morning sky was blue, clouds drifting lazily. Outside, the lake mirrored the sky, a gentle breeze rippling the water's surface. Sunlight streamed down, rustling dry leaves, and the wildflowers swayed in the breeze, surrounded by a sea of trees, birds chirping, enhancing the serene atmosphere.
Kaguya was still asleep, her breathing gentle, cheeks flushed. Her lips moved slightly, adding to her cuteness. In her arms lay a naked young girl.
Half-awake, Kaguya squeezed the softness in her arms.
The girl stirred, her eyelashes fluttering as she opened her eyes.
A sharp scream pierced the tranquility of the palace, startling a flock of birds.
"I'm sorry, Your Highness," Sayo said, her face red with embarrassment. "It's all my fault."
"It's nothing; don't worry," Kaguya replied casually, sipping tea, the red marks on her face noticeable.
"But—"
Before Sayo could continue, Ieyasu hurried in, kneeling before Kaguya. "Your Highness."
Seeing Ieyasu had urgent matters to discuss, Sayo excused herself. She knew the importance of privacy, despite being a close friend.
"As you expected," Ieyasu said gravely, "the minister's forces have clashed with Night Raid."
"Good," Kaguya said, setting her cup down with a smile. "You've done well. Keep a close eye on their movements and report any changes."
"Yes," Ieyasu replied seriously.
"Also, assemble the troops and prepare for battle," Kaguya said, a smile playing on her lips. "The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind. Such a good show requires the oriole to be present."