"But what if...by my human carelessness of course...you end with the end?" Hakkai prodded, pushing himself up higher on the pillows in order to meet the other's almost-glare that said, 'are you threatening me?' Through the darkness, he noticed that Shien balked. "I warn you now. There are some situations, destinies which I cannot control. I hold no grudge against you, Shien and I can only admire your loyalty- which makes it all the harder for me to accept your blessing of..." he hesitated to say it. "...power."

Silence as Shien digested the honest words. And Hakkai counted a good three minutes before he received an answer floating in the dim. "I would admit defeat to no other person."

Hakkai nodded with grim satisfaction as he bit his lip. It wasn't what he wanted, but in some absurd sense, he felt like he was granting a dying man his last wish- despite the fact that he already knew which of the two would die first.

"Shien..."

"Hm?" He hadn't moved.

"Find me some paper, a pen, and my seal. I believe there are some new orders I wish to issue...but..." He never issued orders before. He didn't know the etiquette. Worst of all, he didn't know how he was going to get his arm to move.

Shien nodded with partial understanding. "I will write them for you."

***

Day 1: Preliminary investigation

"Who was with Marshal Tenpou before the parade?"

"Me."

"During?"

"Hell if I'd pay attention."

"You are before the military council, Kenren Taishou. Please show more respect."

"My apologies."

"Accepted..."

"Okay then...as the gates were opening..."

***

Day 2: Post-preliminary investigation