Page 40 of Fumiko and the Finicky Nestmate
Like many clansmen, Colt no longer bothered with disguises because his stature gave him away. Something that didn’t usually matter, since he routinely took the night watch with Hallow.
Juuyu hummed. “You would be good for publicity. Provided you stow your weapon.”
“I’ll just check with the director first, shall I?”
“That would be courteous.” As they entered the lobby together, Juuyu added, “I will confer with the reavers.”
“Mirrim and Magda are resting in their newly established naproom. Healer’s orders.” Colt shook his head in a fond way. “They’ve been skimping on sleep, but we’re here now. No need to push their limits.”
Checking his pocket watch, Juuyu nodded again. “I will begin with records, then. If you need me, I will be reviewing documents at reception.”
Parting ways, Juuyu settled in the chair behind the front counter, which served as the Amory’s information desk. While most of the day-to-day business at the museum was computerized, the receptionist who was in charge of scheduling tours and assigning guides adhered to the school of pencils and highlighters. Her master calendar involved dog-eared corners and sticky note supplements. Charming in its way.
Even more endearing was a guest book, where visitors from far and near had been encouraged to leave their name and where they were visiting from. Juuyu flipped through a few pages before trying to find a safe place to set it aside.
More than half the counter had been overtaken by live plants and festive bouquets. One of the cards caught his eye, then his interest.
Congratulations, Trip! Art Without Barriers is a stroke of brilliance and of beauty. You’re making a difference. —Kimiko Starmark & Isla Ward, cofounders, ClanRomantics
Kimiko had ties to this museum? Was that significant? Juuyu’s mind raced. When Argent selected the Amory to display the Bamboo Stave, they’d had no way of knowing that the Junzi stored at Kikusawa Shrine—Kimiko’s home—would be snatched first.
Rising and circling the desk, he checked the other tags. Several local businesses had sent bouquets.
Sending good vibes for the opening of your new exhibit! —your friends at Bohotique
Raising a glass! Here’s to peace! —Vic & Trix, The Spume Room
Proud to be running your story on Page 1. You’re an inspiration! —Levity Jones-Highwind, The Emergent
Several notables in the Amaranthine community had also taken the time to send tokens of support. Usually in the form of potted plants, not cut flowers.
Many thanks. May your efforts touch many hearts. —Hisoka Twineshaft
All the best to everyone at the Amory. Save me a spot on opening night! —Cyril Bellamy, Amaranthine American
Until all is as it should be. —Argent Mettlebright, Stately House
Rather oblique. Then again, Argent wasn’t the most ebullient of souls. Juuyu gently touched the leaves of a bonsai that had to be centuries old. Had the fox parted with something from his own conservatory? The dwarf orange tree sent by Harmonious was also in keeping with its sender. Bright and cheerful.
According to the receptionist’s calendar, opening night for this exhibit had been the previous weekend. Five days ago. An invitation-only affair, held prior to the tampering Mirrim and Magda had detected. Even so, Juuyu made a mental note to ask Mister Raphael S. Amory III—reportedly known to his friends as Trip—for the guest list. And to have Sinder hunt up any articles and photographs.
You never knew which details would become pertinent.
And Juuyu only knew how to be thorough.
FOURTEEN
Mind the Gap
Juuyu found the “naproom” easily enough. Colt’s handmade sign cheekily announced, DO NOT DISTURB THE WARRIORS. The notice was wholly unnecessary, given the extravagance of the barrier now in place. If there was one thing Hallow was good at, it was warding against light and sound.
With a perfunctory tap, Juuyu slipped through the door and into darkness.
A staff lounge with a sofa and armchairs had been adapted for the reavers’ use. The women had borrowed cushions and spread bedrolls, creating an almost avian nest for themselves in one corner.
Mirrim raised an arm, acknowledging him. Easing away from her partner, she softly kissed Magda’s temple, adjusted her blankets, and stood to stretch. Silently indicating the door, Mirrim essentially ordered Juuyu out before quietly exiting the room behind him.
“Magda’s been monitoring wards for three days straight,” she said, traces of pride warming her tone.
