01

Kagayaku's Kingdom

"For the last time, Princess Hana, you can't go to the Sakura Blooming festival! It's in Arashihara Kingdom!" King Daiki angrily said. "Do you want to die going there?!"

Princess Hana, standing with her arms crossed, glared back at her father. "I'm not a child anymore, Father," she replied, her voice steady but firm. "I know the risks, but it's a once-in-a-lifetime event. I need to go."

The King's face darkened. "The last thing we need is to give Arashihara any more reason to provoke us. You'll stay here, where it's safe!"

Just then, Queen Emiko entered the room, her expression serious. "Hana, we've spoken about this," she said softly but firmly. "It is very dangerous going out there, and all because you want to see the festival!"

Princess Hana clenched her fists, feeling the frustration rise in her chest. "But it's not just about the festival, Mother! I need to see for myself, to understand what's happening in the world beyond our walls. Arashihara isn't all enemies."

The Queen exchanged a glance with the King before sighing. "You don't understand, my dear. It's not just the festival. There are things at play you cannot yet comprehend."

Princess Hana's voice softened with curiosity as she took a step closer to her parents. "But what's so bad about Arashihara that you don't want me to go there?"

King **Daiki**'s expression hardened. "You've heard the rumors, Hana. Arashihara is a kingdom of warriors, and their rulers are prideful. They don't look kindly on outsiders, especially those from Kagayaku. You don't know what kind of danger you'd be walking into."

Queen **Emiko** placed a gentle hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Your father is right. The tensions between our kingdoms have always been high. One wrong move, one careless gesture, and we could be at war. It's not worth the risk."

Princess Hana looked between them, her heart sinking with the weight of their words. "I understand the danger, but I'm not a child anymore. I can handle myself."

King Daiki's gaze softened, though his voice remained firm. "It's not about how well you can handle yourself, Hana. It's about protecting you from a world that is much darker and more dangerous than you realize."

"But Father! Mother!" Princess Hana yelled, her frustration boiling over. "I am not helpless! I can make my own choices!"

Her voice echoed in the room, the tension thickening as the King and Queen exchanged worried glances.

King **Daiki** stepped forward, his expression softening, though his tone remained firm. "Hana, this isn't about you being helpless. This is about your safety. There's too much at stake. You don't understand how dangerous things are out there."

Queen **Emiko** sighed deeply, her eyes filled with concern. "We only want to protect you, Hana. The world is not like the kingdom you've grown up in. Please, try to understand."

Princess Hana took a deep breath, her hands trembling with the weight of her emotions. "I'm not asking to be protected like a child. I'm asking to see the world for myself. I need to know what's beyond these walls."

King Daiki looked at her, his expression torn between love and the burden of his duty. "I understand your desire, but some things are too dangerous to understand firsthand."

Hana groaned in frustration, her face flushed with anger and disappointment. She stood there for a moment, seething, before yelling one last time. "I wish I was born in Arashihara!"

The words hung in the air, sharp and bitter. Without another glance at her parents, she stormed out of the throne room, her footsteps echoing in the empty hallway.

King **Daiki** and Queen **Emiko** stood in stunned silence, the weight of their daughter's outburst settling heavily between them. The Queen closed her eyes, feeling a pang of sorrow. "She doesn't understand… not yet."

The King sighed deeply, a shadow of worry crossing his face. "I know, but I can't let her go… not to Arashihara. Not yet."

"I know, dear, I know," the Queen said in concern, her voice soft but filled with worry. She turned to one of the guards standing nearby, a tall figure cloaked in shadow, with a quiet and mysterious presence.

"Knight Kazuki, look after Hana, will you?" Queen Emiko said, her tone calm yet urgent. "I know she trusts you deeply."

The knight, Kazuki, bowed his head slightly, his expression unreadable as always. His dark eyes met hers with a quiet resolve. "Of course, Your Majesty. I will make sure she is safe."

With that, he turned and disappeared into the corridor, his movements swift and silent like a shadow.

Kazuki made his way through the quiet halls of the castle, his footsteps barely making a sound on the stone floor. He knew where she would be—where she often went to clear her mind. As he reached the garden, he spotted her immediately.

**Princess Hana** sat on the swing, her movements sharp and frustrated, her eyes focused on the ground as she swung back and forth, the breeze tugging at her long hair. The soft creak of the swing was the only sound that filled the garden, apart from the quiet rustle of leaves in the wind.

Kazuki approached her quietly, standing just out of her line of sight. "Princess Hana," he called softly, his voice steady and calm.

She didn't stop swinging. "Go away, Kazuki," she muttered, her voice tight with frustration. "I don't want to talk right now."

Kazuki waited for a moment, giving her the space she needed before stepping closer. "Your parents are worried about you," he said, his tone gentle but firm. "I'm here to help."

Hana let out a frustrated sigh and stopped the swing with a sharp push. She turned to face him, her expression clouded with a mix of anger and sadness. "Why does everyone keep treating me like a child?" she snapped. "I'm not weak! I can make my own decisions!"

Kazuki remained quiet, his dark eyes watching her with a calm intensity. "I know you're not weak, Princess. But sometimes, even the strongest of us need guidance."

She crossed her arms over her chest, her eyes burning with unshed tears. "I just want to see the world for myself. I don't want to be trapped in this castle forever, with everyone telling me what to do."

Kazuki's expression softened, though he kept his distance. "I understand. But sometimes the world outside can be more dangerous than it seems."

Hana looked down at her hands, her fingers clenched tightly in frustration. "Why does my father keep saying that? Why does he think I can't handle it? I just want to experience something outside these walls."

Kazuki knelt in front of her, lowering his gaze to meet hers. "It's not about whether you can handle it, Princess. It's about protecting you from the things you don't yet understand. Arashihara is not a kingdom you can trust. Not yet."

Hana stared at him, her eyes searching his face for any hint of what he truly thought. "And what if I don't want to be protected anymore? What if I want to make my own choices, no matter the cost?"

Kazuki paused for a moment, then slowly, he nodded. "Then you must be prepared for the consequences, Princess. But know this: I'll always be here to protect you, even if you don't want it."

Her gaze softened, and for a brief moment, she let down the walls she had built around herself. "Thank you, Kazuki," she whispered.

He gave a small, reassuring nod. "Always, Your Highness."

Hana sighed deeply, her gaze drifting toward the distant horizon as the weight of her words sank in. "I just wished I could see the festival for once, you know," she said sadly, her voice carrying a quiet ache. "My whole life, I've been trapped in this castle for so long, and I'm 23 now, Kazuki. I feel like Rapunzel."

Kazuki watched her, the sadness in her tone tugging at something deep within him. He knew her frustration, her longing for freedom. It was something he had seen in her eyes for years, but he never had the right words to ease her pain.

"Princess," he began softly, his voice steady but gentle, "I understand. You've spent your life in these walls, and the world beyond must seem like a distant dream."

Hana looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mixture of longing and resignation. "It's not just about the festival, Kazuki. I just… I want to experience something real. Something beyond all of this." She waved her hand around the garden, as if the castle itself was a cage. "All I've known is this place, these rules, and the constant fear of what might happen if I step outside of it. But I'm suffocating in here."

Kazuki could see the vulnerability in her expression, the quiet desperation that she had kept hidden for so long. He stepped closer, lowering his voice as if afraid to break the fragile moment between them. "I can't pretend to understand everything you feel, Princess, but I do know one thing. Your heart is strong. Stronger than you realize."

She shook her head, her frustration rising once again. "It doesn't feel strong. It feels trapped. I want to be free, Kazuki. I want to make my own choices, live my own life."

Kazuki's gaze softened as he knelt down before her, looking into her eyes with a quiet intensity. "And one day, you will. But the world outside can be a dangerous place, Princess. It's not about taking away your freedom; it's about ensuring you're ready for what it might bring."

Hana's shoulders slumped in defeat, her eyes brimming with tears that she quickly wiped away. "I don't want to be trapped anymore. I don't want to feel like a prisoner in my own life."

Kazuki, though conflicted, reached out and gently placed a hand on her shoulder, offering her a rare moment of comfort. "You are not a prisoner, Hana. But you must remember, freedom comes with its own dangers. It's not something to take lightly."

She nodded slowly, taking in his words, though a part of her still yearned for something more. "I just want to see the festival," she whispered, almost to herself.

Kazuki stood up and gave her a long, thoughtful look. "I can't promise you everything you want, Princess, but I will always be here to protect you—no matter what path you choose."

Hana gave a small, grateful smile, her heart touched by his loyalty. "Thank you, Kazuki. I may not always agree with the choices they make for me, but… I appreciate that you're always here for me."

Kazuki gave her a quiet nod, his voice steady. "That's all I can offer, Your Highness. But remember, you don't have to face this world alone."

The silence that followed was filled with unspoken understanding, and for a brief moment, Hana allowed herself to believe that maybe, just maybe, she wasn't as alone as she had once thought.

"Thank you, Kazuki," Hana said softly, her voice filled with quiet appreciation. She stood up from the swing, her shoulders still heavy with the weight of her frustrations, yet her heart slightly eased after their conversation. "I'll be in my room now."

Kazuki watched her turn and begin walking away, her steps slow and deliberate. His sharp, observant gaze followed her, his thoughts consumed with concern.

He knew her well enough to sense that her longing for freedom, and for Arashihara, wasn't something she would simply let go of.

"Princess Hana," he called softly, his voice steady but firm, just before she reached the corner.

She paused, her back still to him, her form framed by the fading light of the garden.

Kazuki's voice lowered, a trace of urgency creeping in. "If you truly wish to leave the safety of this castle one day… you must understand what it means."

Hana turned her head slightly, just enough for him to see the faint outline of her profile. "What do you mean, Kazuki?" she asked, her tone cautious.

He stepped closer, careful not to overstep but unwilling to leave his thoughts unsaid. "Arashihara is not a place you can walk into unguarded, Princess. You're the heir to Kagayaku. If you ever choose to go there, knights—trusted ones—will have to surround you at all times. You cannot risk going alone."

Hana sighed, her frustration bubbling beneath her calm facade. "I'm not reckless, Kazuki. I wouldn't go without thinking it through."

Kazuki's eyes darkened with quiet resolve. "Even the most careful plans can fall apart in a place like Arashihara. It's a kingdom ruled by strength and pride. If they find out who you are, the consequences could be... severe."

Hana turned fully now, her expression softening as she met his gaze. "I know you're worried, Kazuki. I see it in your eyes. But I can't spend my entire life afraid of what might happen. I have to trust that the world isn't just danger and conflict."

Kazuki's jaw tightened, his concern evident despite his stoic demeanor. "You're right, Princess. The world isn't just danger. But it only takes one moment of trust in the wrong place to lose everything. If you ever decide to cross that river…" He paused, his voice firm but quiet. "Promise me you won't do it alone."

Her lips parted slightly, his words catching her off guard. After a long moment, she gave a small nod. "I promise, Kazuki."

For a moment, the weight of their conversation hung heavy between them, but Hana offered a faint smile. "Thank you… for always worrying about me."

Kazuki inclined his head, his dark eyes never leaving hers. "It's my duty, Princess."

With that, she turned again and walked away, leaving Kazuki standing alone in the quiet garden. His thoughts churned with the knowledge that, despite her promise, her spirit yearned too fiercely for freedom.

He knew deep down that if she ever chose to step into Arashihara, protecting her would be more than just a duty—it would be a battle against the unknown.

As Hana made her way down the long hallway toward her room, her mind replayed the conversation with Kazuki over and over.

She couldn't shake the feeling of being trapped, of being caged by her own royal duties and the walls of the castle. The weight of it all pressed down on her as she reached the door to her room.

She pushed it open slowly, stepping inside, but instead of going to the bed, she walked toward the balcony window. The cool breeze from outside brushed against her skin, and she leaned against the railing, gazing out at the view.

And there, across the River Hoshikawa, she saw the distant silhouette of **Arashihara**.

Her heart quickened as her eyes traced the line of the rival kingdom, the sprawling land, and the towering palace that loomed in the distance, shrouded in mist.

The sight of it, so close yet so far, stirred something deep within her—a yearning she couldn't ignore.

She had grown up hearing of the rivalry, the pride of Kagayaku and Arashihara, the constant tension between the two kingdoms. Yet, from this distance, it didn't seem so menacing. It looked… peaceful.

The trees, the rolling hills, the way the setting sun bathed the kingdom in a warm glow—it all seemed so different from the life she knew.

Her fingers gripped the railing tightly as she stared at the kingdom, imagining what it would be like to walk its streets, to see the people, to experience life outside these walls.

"If only I could be there…" she whispered to herself, her voice barely audible over the rustling of the wind.

She didn't even notice that her heart had begun to race again, or that a small part of her wished she could cross that river and escape everything—her father's rules, the expectations, the suffocating love and care that kept her bound to this castle.

She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath, feeling a wave of longing wash over her.

But she knew the truth. No matter how much she wanted it, crossing the river wasn't as simple as it seemed.

Arashihara might appear peaceful from a distance, but it was a land of warriors, of powerful families and princes—many of whom might see her as nothing more than a pawn in their game.

Still, as she opened her eyes again and gazed one last time at the kingdom in the distance, a flicker of hope sparked within her. Maybe one day, she would find a way to bridge the gap between her world and theirs.

Princess Hana's Point of View

Whenever the Arashihara Kingdom hosts the Sakura Blooming Festival, an invitation always arrives for Kagayaku. Yet, Father refuses to even acknowledge it, let alone discuss it with me. It's almost as if he's determined to keep the festival—and the entire Arashihara Kingdom—a mystery I'll never unravel.

But I know better.

I overheard the servants whispering about Emperor Daiken's invitation this year, and I realized Father must be hiding it somewhere. My curiosity burned hotter than my fear of his anger, so I waited for the perfect moment—when both Father and Mother were occupied with royal duties.

Their bedroom, a place forbidden to me, held the answer I sought. With careful steps, I slipped inside, my heart pounding in my chest. The faint scent of lavender lingered in the air, but my focus was elsewhere.

I combed through their desk first, my fingers trembling as I sorted through stacks of papers and royal decrees. Then I checked the drawers, moving with as much stealth as I could muster. Just as frustration began to mount, I spotted a neatly folded envelope tucked beneath a pile of parchment. My breath hitched as I pulled it free.

There it was—the Arashihara Kingdom's royal seal, unbroken, staring back at me like a forbidden fruit.

My hands shook slightly as I carefully opened the envelope, revealing the intricate invitation within. The delicate script spoke of the festival's grandeur and the honor of an invitation extended to Kagayaku. My eyes skimmed every word, but my mind lingered on one thought: *Father didn't want me to see this.*

I clutched the invitation tightly, my resolve hardening. I wasn't going to let Father's fear or hatred of Arashihara keep me from experiencing the world beyond these walls. The Sakura Blooming Festival wasn't just an event—it was a chance to finally step outside the confines of this castle and see what lay beyond the River Hoshikawa.

With the invitation hidden beneath my robes, I quietly exited their room, my heart set on a decision that would change everything.

I quickly rushed to my room, clutching the invitation tightly against my chest, my heart racing not just from the stealth of my actions but from the weight of my decision. The corridors seemed endless, and every shadow felt like a guard ready to catch me. But at last, I reached the safety of my chambers, bolting the door behind me.

Leaning against the door, I took a deep breath, my mind buzzing with possibilities. *Should I let them know I plan to attend?* I wondered, pacing the room. If I wrote back, it would at least give me a chance to see if they would accept my presence.

The thought of Arashihara's princes crossed my mind—seven brothers, each with a reputation that preceded them. Would they be intrigued by my defiance? Or would they see my arrival as a threat?

I bit my lip, conflicted but determined. Pulling out a sheet of parchment, I sat at my desk and began to write. My pen hesitated for a moment, but then the words flowed.

*"To His Majesty Emperor Daiken of Arashihara,"*

*"I humbly accept your gracious invitation to the Sakura Blooming Festival. Though I come as Princess of Kagayaku, I hope my presence will be a gesture of goodwill and curiosity rather than hostility. I look forward to witnessing the beauty of Arashihara and hope my visit will be met with understanding."*

I paused, then added a final line.

*"I trust that your sons, the esteemed princes of Arashihara, will welcome me warmly."*

Satisfied, I folded the letter carefully and sealed it with the wax emblem of Kagayaku. I would have to find a way to send it discreetly, but for now, I hid the letter beneath my belongings, feeling a strange mix of fear and exhilaration.

As I glanced out of my window toward the distant horizon, where the lands of Arashihara lay, I whispered to myself, "Let them see me not as an enemy but as someone seeking freedom."

Night had fallen, cloaking the castle in a veil of quiet stillness. It was the perfect time to act. Clutching the sealed letter tightly, I slipped out of my room, my heart pounding with every step I took. The corridors seemed darker and more foreboding than ever, the flickering torchlight casting long, shifting shadows on the walls.

I moved cautiously, keeping my ears sharp for the faintest sound of approaching footsteps. The guards were stationed throughout the castle, their patrols predictable but still dangerous if I were caught. My pulse quickened every time I heard the faint clinking of armor in the distance, but I stayed hidden, pressing myself against the walls or ducking behind pillars until the coast was clear.

As I descended the grand staircase, I froze when I saw a guard stationed near the exit. My mind raced. I couldn't risk him recognizing me or questioning why I was out so late. Spying an adjacent hallway, I darted into it, taking an alternate route that led to a lesser-used side door.

The door creaked faintly as I pushed it open, and I held my breath, praying no one heard. Outside, the cold night air hit my face, and the sprawling castle grounds stretched before me. The path to the gate was dimly lit, with only a few guards patrolling.

I crept along the hedges, keeping low and avoiding the open spaces. My fingers gripped the letter tightly, as if letting go of it would ruin everything. Finally, after what felt like hours of sneaking and hiding, I reached the postman's small outpost near the gate.

The man, an elderly worker with a kind but weary face, was just finishing his preparations for the next day's deliveries. He looked up in surprise as I emerged from the shadows.

"Princess Hana?" he whispered, his voice laced with confusion and concern. "What are you doing here at this hour?"

"I need you to send this immediately," I said, holding out the letter. "It's important."

He hesitated, looking between me and the letter. "Does the king know about this?"

I swallowed hard, shaking my head. "No, and he doesn't need to. Please, just deliver it discreetly. No one can know."

The postman frowned, clearly torn, but my pleading expression seemed to sway him. He sighed and took the letter from my hands, tucking it carefully into his satchel.

"I'll see to it," he said. "But, Princess, you're playing a dangerous game. Be careful."

"I will," I assured him, though the knot in my stomach told me otherwise.

Without another word, I turned and retraced my steps, the adrenaline slowly ebbing as I slipped back into the castle unnoticed. Once safely in my room, I collapsed onto my bed, staring at the ceiling. The letter was on its way, and there was no turning back now.

For better or worse, I had taken the first step toward a future I could no longer control.

Arashihara Kingdom point of view

In the grand throne room of Arashihara, Emperor Daiken sat upon his imposing obsidian throne, his piercing gaze sweeping across the vast chamber.

The room, adorned with banners of crimson and gold, radiated power and authority, much like the king himself. His presence demanded respect, and his sons knew better than to challenge it.

Emperor Daiken sat on his throne, his expression unreadable as he held a letter sealed with Kagayaku's emblem.

One by one, the seven princes entered the hall, each distinct in demeanor yet bound by the same bloodline.

At the front stood Satoru, the eldest and heir to the throne. His stoic expression and commanding aura spoke of his readiness to lead. Satoru was the embodiment of responsibility, a born leader whose calm intellect made him a worthy successor.

Beside him stood Daichi, the second eldest. Towering and broad-shouldered, Daichi exuded strength and resilience. He was the kingdom's fiercest warrior, a protector of Arashihara's honor and a man of few words but unwavering action.

Isamu, the third son, observed silently, his calculating eyes taking in the room. Known for his keen intelligence and tactical brilliance, he was often the one who found solutions when others faltered.

The middle brothers, Kazu and Haru, stood side by side, their contrasting personalities clear. Kazu, with his quiet and thoughtful nature, was the diplomat of the family, while Haru's easygoing charm and wit made him the bridge between their often serious brothers.

Next was Yuji, the bold and fiery sixth son. He radiated restless energy, his daring personality both a strength and a challenge. Yuji's impulsive nature often led him to clash with his older siblings, but his courage was undeniable.

Finally, there was Ryuu, the youngest of the seven. Though smaller in stature compared to his older brothers, Ryuu's sharp mind and insatiable curiosity made him stand out. He had a youthful determination that hinted at greatness waiting to bloom.

As the last of his sons entered, Emperor Daiken straightened, his voice booming across the hall.

Emperor Daiken held up the letter for all to see, the seal of Kagayaku glinting under the torchlight. "This arrived unexpectedly," he began, his voice steady but laced with intrigue. "A letter from Princess Hana of Kagayaku."

The princes exchanged glances, their interest piqued.

"She writes to inform us that she intends to attend the Sakura Blooming Festival," Daiken continued, his eyes scanning his sons' faces. "An unusual decision, given her father's well-known stance on our kingdom."

Satoru furrowed his brow. "Did Emperor Daiki sanction her visit, or is this her own doing?"

"That remains unclear," Daiken replied, setting the letter on the armrest of his throne. "But her presence could either be an opportunity or a threat. We cannot afford to be careless."

Daichi spoke next, his tone measured. "If she comes alone, it may signify a personal intent rather than a political one. But we should still prepare for any contingency."

Isamu nodded in agreement. "It's rare for someone of her status to act independently. There's more to this than meets the eye."

Ryuu, standing at the edge of the line, couldn't hide his curiosity. "Do you think she's coming here for the festival itself? Or could there be another reason?"

Daiken's gaze lingered on his youngest son, his lips curling into a faint, knowing smile. "That is precisely what we must determine. Regardless of her reason, her arrival will not go unnoticed, especially by our people. You, my sons, will ensure that she is watched closely and discreetly."

He turned his attention back to Satoru. "As the eldest, you will lead this effort. But I want all of you to keep your eyes open and your wits sharp. If there is any sign of deception or ill intent, I expect to be informed immediately."

The princes bowed in unison. "Yes, Father."

Daiken's gaze grew distant as he tapped the armrest of his throne. "Princess Hana… What could have driven you to step into our kingdom, knowing the history between us? Whatever your reason, Arashihara will not falter."

As the meeting ended, the princes filed out of the throne room, each lost in their own thoughts. Ryuu lingered at the back, his mind racing with possibilities.

For some reason, the idea of meeting the elusive Princess Hana filled him with an unshakable sense of intrigue.

For Ryuu, the festival had just become far more interesting.

The seven brothers walked down the grand hallway of the palace, their footsteps echoing off the marble floors. Each carried a different expression, reflecting their thoughts on the unexpected news.

Satoru, ever the dutiful eldest, broke the silence. "We cannot treat this lightly. Princess Hana's arrival could mean many things, but above all, we must ensure that Father's trust in us is well placed."

Daichi nodded, his voice calm but firm. "Agreed. If she's coming alone, it might be a personal act, but that doesn't mean her visit is without consequence. We must prepare for all scenarios."

Kazu glanced at Isamu, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "Still, it's unusual for someone like her to defy Emperor Daiki. What do you think her true intentions are?"

Isamu shrugged, his expression thoughtful. "She could be looking for something Kagayaku cannot provide—freedom, perhaps, or answers to questions we don't yet know. Either way, she's taking a risk."

Haru chuckled lightly, his tone teasing. "Or maybe she just wanted to see what all the fuss about Arashihara is. I mean, we are hosting the grandest festival in the region."

Yuji scoffed, smirking. "Or she's heard about us—the seven most eligible princes—and wanted to see for herself."

Ryuu, walking quietly behind the others, finally spoke, his voice soft but curious. "Do you think she's scared? Coming here, knowing how our kingdoms view each other? It takes courage to step into what could be considered enemy territory."

Satoru glanced back at his youngest brother, a flicker of surprise in his eyes. "Courage, or recklessness. Either way, we'll find out soon enough."

They reached the end of the hallway, where their paths split into their individual quarters.

"Rest well, brothers," Satoru instructed. "The festival begins tomorrow, and our work will start long before the festivities do. We'll meet in the morning to strategize."

The brothers nodded, each heading to their respective rooms.

But Ryuu lingered for a moment, his gaze drawn to the moonlit garden visible through a nearby window. His mind wandered to the mysterious princess who would soon cross the threshold into their world.

What could drive someone to risk so much?he wondered.

As the youngest, he often felt overshadowed by his brothers, each of whom carried their own strengths and responsibilities. But for some reason, this news about Princess Hana stirred something unfamiliar within him—a mix of curiosity, admiration, and something he couldn't quite name.

Ryuu turned away from the window, resolving to play his part in this unfolding mystery. But deep down, he couldn't help but hope that Princess Hana's visit would bring something more than just political tension.

It felt like the start of something… different. Something that could change everything.