284 To Be Hated

The trip to the Cedar Palace took longer than usual, but Ryuu didn't say anything. He knew that Gin's priority was Alencica's comfort. It was still however faster than the bullet train, so even if they slowed down, they reached the Cedar Palace in less than an hour.

As soon as they were spotted by their clansmen, led by the obviously anxious Yayoi, they gathered into the yard. They waited for them to descend, and their faces showed their shock upon seeing their masters' changed appearances.

"Young Masters," Yayoi called as her old, weathered eyes scanned their faces. "You are both… different."

Gin laughed as he stepped forward to give her a hug. "I'm prettier now, aren't I, Yayoi? Are you dazzled?" he teased, making the old woman's eyes teary as she placed a hand on her mouth.

"Oh my… Are you, really?"