Kazuo PoV
The scent of spices and the cacophony of the marketplace assaulted my senses, a stark contrast to the quiet dignity of my own court. But I pushed forward, following Natsumi's confident stride, my mind a whirlwind of doubt and determination. I had to be strong, not just for myself, but for Kuroriku, for Amelia, for the future of our world. My mask of courage had to hold, at least until after we have spoken to the king.
We walked through the city, the crowd parting before us. The red cloaks were a clear signal of our status, but it was the look in Natsumi's eyes, a look of cold, hard authority, that truly commanded respect.
