1 The Fox Princes part 1

They had sent him a doll. That was Asahi's first thought when he first laid eyes on her. It sat quiet and unmoving in his precious rose garden, aligned with those frozen porcelain creations his mother so favored. The doll's back was straight, its delicate hands folded neatly on its lap, and its sweet face was clear of all emotions.

Its hair was elegantly coifed with glistening pearls, a lovely contrast to its raven hue. The doll's eyes were big and round, like newly bloomed violets in spring. Then it had a little button nose and firm pink lips, reminiscent of fresh strawberries in summer.

Had she not blinked when their eyes met, Asahi would have not known. The doll rose, soundless apart from a whisper of silk on skin. She bowed gracefully, her green kimono blended with the grass at their feet. The doll… No, the lady's, for there was no other word to describe her, clasped hands touched her chest as she greeted him, her Emperor.

"May I know your name?" he asked, more than a bit curious.

For who would dare wander in the Jade Palace? Noble or not, it was folly, punishable under ancient law. This place hides dark secrets, many of which should remain thus.

Her pearls sparkled as she straightened, the sleeves of her kimono rippled like waves. She was of short stature, slender and pale compared to him. They were both standing, but the top of her head only reached Asahi's shoulders.

Asahi looked down, but she looked up and effectively stared him in the face. Her gaze was clear and direct, focused on him. A rarity these days, and Asahi appreciated it all the more.

"Greetings, Your Majesty," she said. "My name is Shiori of Kyon, Princess of Foxes and the northern lands. I am pleased to make your acquaintance."

Asahi's brow rose in surprise, masking his emotions was a skill he had yet to master. He inclined his head at her, acknowledging her status. The princess was his subject, yes but he barely outranked her.

"The pleasure is all mine, Princess Shiori," Asahi said and offered her his arm. "May I have the honor of escorting you to the White Pavilion?"

In answer, the princess came closer and brought the scent of pines and roses with her. She touched his sleeve with her fingertips and walked beside him. Their contact was light, almost nonexistent. But Asahi couldn't deny the gentle current of electricity that coursed through him from where they were connected.

He glanced at her, the princess who looked like a doll. Her skin was white as porcelain and her steps were graceful, like a leaf gently swayed by the wind. Out of all the rumors Asahi heard, nothing came close to the truth before him, he thought and couldn't help but remember the day when his curiosity of her began.

…