Page 136 of Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal
“True son.” For the benefit of the rest, Michael explained, “By old reaver custom, it’s permissible to claim sonship for up to three generations. However, this man is a true son. Waaseyaa is his biological father.”
Mama asked, “Who is this man with the unpronounceable name? You speak as if he’s famous, but I’ve never heard of such a person.”
“Ah, he’s something of a recluse. Never makes the news these days.” Glossing over her other questions, Michael pointed to the top corner of the page. “I believe I’ve solved your little mystery. The reason there’s no six-digit number is because of the applicant’s level. See this copper ribbon? That’s Glint’s mark, which is necessary to confirm a double-digit rank.”
Kimiko glanced at her sisters, then looked to Daddy, who had an odd little smile on his face. Michael was downplaying everything even as he dropped names of vast historical significance. Glint and Waaseyaa hadfoundedthe In-between.
Michael continued to explain the form. “Here is his overall rank. Sometimes, there will also be a class rating as well, but this particular symbol indicates … ah.” And turning to the corner where their silent security guard stood, he said, “Thank you for your service to the community. Are you looking forward to settling down, Reaver Denholme?”
Every eye swung to Dickon.
He inclined his head. “This is a good place.”
Every eye swung to Noriko, only to find she’d set another place at the table. With a patient smile, she said, “Come and sit. You must be hungry.”
Dickon accepted, sitting right across from Mama.
No one could fault that Radish-man’s courage.
Into the stunned silence, Michael nattered on. “I can’t say I’m surprised to find such excellent references and highest recommendations. After all, Dickon is the son of a beacon.”
Mama shot her husband a pleading look. “Isn’t that really very good?”
“Yes, my dear.” Daddy smiled softly and promised, “Only the best for our girls.”
After breakfast, Daddy and Mr. Ward spread the local paper and the newly arrived reaver communique on the cleared table. Their expressions brought Kimiko closer. Head tilted to read sideways, she scanned the headlines. Keishi’s top story was cause for concern—RUNNING OF THE WOLVES.
“Is it because of the trackers?” asked Mr. Miyabe. “Looking for those missing girls?”
“Their movements have been attracting more attention.” Michael touched the communique, which was open to a terse report under a bold heading—UNREGISTERED RISK. “The most recent victim was from a bloodline that lapsed four generations back. The case has crossed over into the public sector.”
Kimiko asked, “Why is that a problem?”
“The suspect isn’t human.” Michael grimaced. “Allegedly.”
Both she and her father made the sign for silence. Kimiko added one for support.
Michael’s gaze turned inward for a moment. “There go the wards. You have company.”
Kimiko hurried to open the door and quickly stepped back to admit Hisoka Twineshaft. Storm clouds had crept in overnight, slicking the city in icy rain. “Come in!”
He signaled for a compromise. “Get your coat?” he suggested.
She joined him under his umbrella, and he escorted her to one of their house’s few blind spots. No matter which window someone might be snooping through, they wouldn’t catch sight of the esteemed personage in their garden and insist he come in for tea.
Speaking above the rattle of rain on their umbrella, Hisoka said, “Your betrothed asked me to carry a message. He cannot come in person, since he must abide by his father’s wishes. But every courting couple is expected to pass messages. Harmonious cannot criticize.”
Kimiko blinked. “Is that your way of telling me I should be sending messages?”
“You’re quick.” He inclined his head. “The Starmark pack would consider the regular comings and goings of assorted couriers a sure sign of increasing attachment.”
“I’ll work on that.” She adopted a quizzical air. “But you can’t have come over just to offer courting tips.”
“A go-between’s duties may be small and sundry.” Hisoka took an offhand tone. “However, I might mention in passing that it’s a fine day for a stroll through the azalea garden.”
Kimiko flatly stated, “The weather isterrible.”
He took her hand, pressed the curved handle of the umbrella against her palm, and smiled benignly. “Then I suggest taking shelter with someone willing to keep you warm.”
