A Warm Summer Stroll

[Mestra]

At the mentioning of my name, I quickly shift my gaze from Mami to Marai, the Empress of Kazemura. I quickly release Mami's hand and stand up bowing my head in a sign of respect. I take a second glance at Mami as she hurriedly makes mention of a visit to a temple and flees the room. Was she flustered? I couldn't tell. It was now a moot point, as she was no longer in the room. My attention shifted back to Mirai. This was an important encounter, as no Mestran monarch had met with the monarchs of Kazemura.

"There is no need to apologize, your majesty. I was enjoying the photos on the mantle place when your sister joined me. My time has been well spent thus far. I thank you again for the opportunity for this visit and would be more than gracious to accompany you to the shrine." I bow my head again. While this wasn't a formal visit in most respects, formalities still had to be adhered too. It was an odd feeling addressing Mirai with such formality after having relaxed into a more informal setting with Mami. A peculiarity on my part, yet there was something about Mami that made me feel at ease. I pushed the thoughts from my mind, it didn't do well to dwell on them now. It was unlikely that whatever was going on meant anything more than friendly greetings and polite manners. Yet somewhere deep in my thoughts, a small flicker of hope remained.