[Saiunkoku Challenge #6] Color and Bloom

[runiclore]

Color and Bloom
Author: Amber Michelle
Rating: K
Genre: gen
Warnings: n/a
AU/Canon: canon.
Pairing/Characters: Kourin, Eiki
Words: 300

Prompt: supernatural; 300 words max.
Summary: Eiki prepares Kourin for her wedding.

Notes: Timeline indeterminate, ancient marriage practices being what they are.



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Kourin wore five layers of red robes for her wedding. The silk closest to her skin was a dark shade similar to clotted blood, and the outermost robe, embroidered with white and gold chrysanthemums, was the bright red of roses. Eiki herself saw to arranging her hair, and Kourin watched the older woman manipulate each strand in the mirror. Like Master Enjun, it seemed the stiffness of old age had passed her by.

"Isn't this a little much?" she asked, lowering her eyes, finally expressing the thought that had been at the tip of her tongue since preparations began.

"Nonsense." The older woman secured her hair and worked in a comb of gold and jade. Her hair fanned out in a loop of purple and gold ribbon. "You are an adopted daughter of the clan. I won't have it said we've neglected even one of you."

Kourin looked up at her. "But--"

"Why are you complaining?" Eiki pressed her hands to Kourin's rouged cheeks and turned her face back to the mirror. Her skin was dry, but also soft and warm, and Kourin felt the strength in her bones. "You are my grandchild." Her pale eyes closed. "You, and young Eigetsu, will bring light to this clan in serving the new generation. I have seen it."

Kourin covered the old woman's hands with her own. "Mistress Eiki?"

Eiki's lids rose, but her eyes looked past Kourin, even when their gazes met. "Your marriage will be one of happiness."

Kourin let out a shaky sigh and blinked back tears.

The other woman came back to herself. "Enough of that, now," she said, patting Kourin's cheeks. "You'll ruin your makeup. Stop at once."

She gave a jerky nod and tried to compose herself. It wouldn't do to cry on her wedding day.


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