Meeting of Families

[Eidolon]

Kōta’s amusement was palpable, and he did not care to be circumspect in his sibling affection. Eido was not a child to be so easily swayed as implied, but she offered no retort to her own defence; in fact she did not engage at all in the presence of a stranger. Where Kōta was open, she was closed. She only nodded in acceptance of Kiyohito’s answer, maintained her stiff aversion to holding eye contact, and said nothing else.

Aware of her wishes, her brother would be honest in his aid whatever consequences it might prevail upon them both. Truth was it was probably wiser to now allow Kiyohito to find his own path to what he sought, rather than to risk it leading back to them, even if the information offered was small. They did not know the context here, nor how big or small a slight the Edenokōji might take it. But should things turn sour, it would not be the first time they’d uprooted their lives to escape trouble. Though dishonour marred the tattoo on her arm, and she no longer claimed the title, Eido could not ignore the possibility laid right before her eyes. They might pinch this flame before it ever had a chance to rage true.

“They’ve a new venture. Some, ah, clubs. I’ve a commission or two to fill.” Kōta did not elaborate, likely for Eido’s benefit, though her attention remained light upon the clasp of her own hands. She did not listen to the specifics of what else he shared, but upon its conclusion, she did speak again before Kiyohito took his leave.

“Korii-san. If your brother retaliates, how will you stop him?” He would possibly find the question rude, especially if she was wrong. She would weather the sharpness if so. Possibly he would not answer at all. She did not look at him as she spoke, content she would understand enough from the manner of his reply or silence. Her own voice was quiet, easy to ignore entirely if he wished it.