Page 152 of Fumiko and the Finicky Nestmate
Bavol and Colt were bearing witness to whatever unfolded. They were taking a neutral position in order to ensure that a proper balance was maintained.
However, Argent dominated the scene, his body half-turned as if he’d been waiting for Juuyu in order to begin. It looked as if his outflung tails were an attempt to hold back the tides, but Akira’s restraint was at an end.
Barreling past proprieties, he blurted, “Tabi-oji!” And then more softly, “Tabi-otosan?”
Changing uncle to father.
Putting astonishment on the tree’s face.
Giving him a reason to reach out.
Without hesitation, Akira hurled himself onto the couch and into the tree’s side. Heedless of the fact that he could be snatched away in a twinkling. And since Fumiko had the tree’s other hand in both of hers, she’d be gone with them.
Juuyu tensed.
Akira clung anyhow, mumbling, “I was afraid you’d gone away.”
“I am here. Do not cry, leafling.”
Jacques breezed into the room then, a loaded tray held high, Antigone close on his heels, carrying two pitchers of something iced.
While they distributed refreshments, Diva asked, “Shall we continue introductions?”
Juuyu fidgeted through the courtesies. He understood that this was an official meeting. Introductions were necessary to set a tone and ensure balance, but he would have preferred to extricate his nestmates from the bandit’s clutches.
Finally, Argent announced, “If you are willing to enter into peace talks with those gathered, I will take your side and ensure your interests are protected.”
“Me?” The tree pursed his lips. “You would take my side?”
“Him and me, both,” said Akira. “You’re family.”
Argent showed his palms. “I am Tsumiko Hajime’s bondmate. She has taken my name and is now known as Lady Mettlebright.”
“I told you about Argent. He loves Sis.” Akira held out his hand. “And this is Suuzu. He wanted to meet you. And I wanted you to meet him. We’re nestmates.”
Suuzu glided to the increasingly crowded couch, and after a moment’s hesitation, perched on the arm.
Hajime breathed, “The phoenix?”
“One of them,” confirmed Akira, before pointing his way. “Juuyu is here, too.”
“He’s mine,” said Fumiko, sounding pleased.
Juuyu warbled softly, but Argent raised a hand to hold him back. “Hajime, will you accept Jacques Smythe as a moderator? His devotion to me could be considered an advantage. As could his short attention span.”
Jacques bowed. “I am quite capable of dedicating hours to worthier pursuits, but I find little pleasure in meetings.”
Akira whispered, “Say yes. Uncle Jackie is the best at this sort of thing.”
The tree glanced from face to face and quietly answered, “Yes.”
“Right, then! Shall we choose up sides? Lord Argent Mettlebright will speak for Hajime, who is joined by Akira Hajime and his plus one.” Pointing to the couch opposite theirs, Jacques said, “Jiminy you’ll be here.”
The ward dropped to a seat and was quickly flanked by Mirrim and Magda.
Indicating a chair to one side, Jacques said, “Sinder, be a dear?”
“Why me?”
