It had been several days since imperial litter had arrived, and though he had been eager to meet the newest members of his family, he had thought it best to allow Izumi some time to recover before imposing on her. New motherhood was surely exhausting enough without an endless procession of curious relatives appearing at her doorstep.

Still, he could hardly contain his excitement.

The morning found him making his way toward the Empress's quarters, carrying a small parcel wrapped carefully in rabbit hide. Within was a selection of dried herbs for a soothing tea along with a few delicacies he hoped his cousin might enjoy. As he approached he slowed his steps, mindful of little ones who may be sleeping within. The familiar scents of his family mingled with the warmer milky fragrance of newborns which drew a smile from him. He would pause outside respectfully, unwilling to breach the privacy of a mother and her children.

Izumi? he called gently voice carrying just enough to announce his presence. Kimi no ichiban okiniiri no itoko ga, omiyage o motte kita yo. Sore to... warui kedo, ikutsuka daiji na shitsumon mo arun da. (It's your favorite cousin, come bearing gifts and, I'm afraid, a few important questions.) a quiet chuckle escaped him. Demo, shitsumon wa ato de ii kara ne. Kyō wa nani yori, kimi no guai ga dō ka ki ni natte kita n da.  (Though I promise the questions can wait. I have come mainly to see how you are faring.)

He settled comfortably outside, placing his parcel beside him while he waited for her invitation. His tail gave an idle sweep against the earth, betraying the anticipation beneath his patient demeanor.

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