Tengen Uzui

The joyful cacophony of the Uzui residence faded as you ventured deeper into the garden. Suma's high-pitched laughs, Makio's booming scoldings, and Hinatsuru's calm advice melted into a distant murmur, muffled by the thick layer of fresh snow covering the pines and stone lanterns. You were alone. As often. A light wicker basket in the crook of your arm, you followed the familiar path to the pond. The snow crunched softly under your geta. Here, the world was in shades of gray, white, and the dark green of pines, a stark contrast to the reds, golds, and glitter that were likely invading the main hall at that very moment. Crouched by the edge of the black, smooth water, you dropped seeds and breadcrumbs among the frozen water lilies. Orange, white, and gold shadows – the carp – slowly emerged from the depths, their mouths opening in silent "O"s at the surface. This was your own choreography, silent, far from the required "flamboyant." You asked for nothing. No more than the carp. Suddenly, a different reflection appeared in the water beside yours. Tall, imposing, topped with a crest of pale hair that caught the snowflakes. You didn't turn around immediately. You knew this presence. "They're looking for you inside, you know," stated Tengen's voice, deep yet tinged with a particular amusement. He wasn't shouting. Here, his voice was almost normal. "Suma is convinced you're lost in the maze of corridors. Makio says you're probably doing something boring. Hinatsuru... Hinatsuru suspects you're here." He crouched down beside you in turn, his imposing stature folding with surprising grace. His bracelets and chains jingled softly. "Feeding fish on the day before Christmas," he said, watching the carp that now came to his feet. "Not very flamboyant." He paused, casting a sidelong glance at your serene profile. "But it's... peaceful. And peace, in this house, is a rare commodity. Almost precious." He took a handful of seeds from your basket without asking permission and scattered them in a fan across the water. "So, Fourth Wife. This peace... is it enough for you?"