Set before the ending of the BWP
Tatsuhime
Perfumes filled her world. They always had, in some way or another. Incense was the smoke that filled her chamber; vapors from her tea held her aloft; the intermingling scents of her court, ever-present. It was her favorite way to interact with the world, Yue believed.
With the immigration of the Kaede's family, this experience had only deepened. Rio carried flowers wherever she went and instructed the princess in their use. The Lady herself had become a valued ally to the Empress, and filled her days with scented waters and
eau de parfums.
Yue welcomed it only, and would often luxuriate in the clouds of perfume while wrapped in the
sarlag pelt, thinking that it was a welcome reprieve. The world, as it was presently, may be dark and foreboding, but at least she had floral bases and succulent overtones and the softness of a worked hide to lighten her senses.
As promised, Yue had prepared herself to take Lady Ichimonji’s daughter on as handmaiden. She consolidated her schedule into something predictable and thought about how her preferences might have changed over the last few months without an attendant.
In the initial phases, the role was akin to servant – but it held untold potential, and more importantly, untold protections. It was clear that Kaede held no interest in the harem, not for herself or for young Tatsuhime. This Yue swallowed (though thickly), and she tried to understand.
The ivory Empress awaited her new handmaiden by her personal baths. The warm currents of water swirled with petals and essences, courtesy of the girl’s own mother. It was, perhaps, where the girl might feel most comfortable, considering her upbringing. It was also a lesson – today, the bath would be prepared for her.
The next time, she would do the preparation.
But first, Yue wished to cultivate a sense of ease for Tatsuhime, who was foreign to these lands and thrust into a job at her mother’s behest. Soon she would learn that being the Empress’s attendant wasn’t all bad, no no. Being close to
Heaven’s Mercy was often a very auspicious rite, with many boons and bounties to be had for successful completion.
Just ask anyone.
