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The moment that Shuu finally steps out into the courtyard, he flinches from the bright sun that reflects off of the sleek stone making up the walkways.
How unprofessional, some part in the back of his mind scolds.
Not like the comment mattered much when the next thing he does is turn to his left, feeling his heart skip a beat and his breath catch in the back of his throat as he sees who stands there.
It’s a man, a tall one at that, so much in fact that it couldn’t have just been the heels he was wearing that gave him a towering stance over the ex-peasant.
His expression is monotone, painted eyelids and mouth stuck in a flawlessly straight line, long, starkly platinum blond hair blowing softly in the breeze.
His ruby eyes have the slightest hint of admiration and interest.
He’s gorgeous.
“Are you an applicant to be one of the Emperor’s brides?” His voice is even, not terribly deep, but not pitched either.
Shuu can feel the blood rushing to his face.
He bites his tongue to keep from letting it show, expression turning suddenly, but adorably, serious.
“My… My name is Shuu-zo… and you?”