Page 99 of Fumiko and the Finicky Nestmate
Juuyu cast a startled glance at the carrying case. He remembered now. This was absurd. No wonder Argent had handed down the order to extract. Shaking his head, he focused on older, clearer memories. “According to legend, a furious storm descends and blows a devastating tune. It may be one reason why dragons call the Junzi the Four Storms. Although I’ve heard some call this flute an instrument of angels.”
“Sounds like the kinds of stories Lady Mettlebright likes.”
The world was full of draconophiles these days, but Tsumiko’s interest was more personal. Her fascination was founded in her love for Kyrie. “I am aware of her interest.”
“According to First-sensei, she’s been researching ancient writings. He thinks she knows more about dragons than most dragons.”
Juuyu doubted that. “An exaggeration, surely.”
“I don’t think so.” Jiminy’s gaze was drawn to the ocean as it came into view. “Jacques says she made a favorable impression on Lord Beckonthrall’s brides, so she gets whatever she wants. Including access to Lord Yonkeep’s trove.”
Although Juuyu knew Argent had found the Bamboo Stave in a private collection, nobody had mentioned whose collection.
To think, they had nearly lost it.
They reached Jacaranda Circle and the farmer’s market without incident. “Were we followed?”
“We’re in the clear,” Jiminy assured, though he was understandably distracted. “This is it, isn’t it?”
Juuyu barely had time to wonder how he’d get Jiminy through the barrier when he spied Fumiko sitting on an overturned bucket outside the gate. He asked, “Can you bring this man through?”
She nodded. “I was waiting for you.”
After the briefest of introductions, Fumiko drew Jiminy past the crystal gate. Although it was entirely unnecessary, she then took Juuyu’s hand and pulled him through. And didn’t let go.
She was unhappy.
This was concerning.
He folded his hands around hers. “I would like to temporarily add something to your collection. A rare treasure.”
“May I see?”
Juuyu signaled for Jiminy to relinquish the carrying case. Placing it in Fumiko’s hands, Juuyu said, “Hold onto this for me. You and Zuzu keep it safe. No peeking.”
“You’ll show me later?”
“As soon as I am able.”
“You won’t forget?”
Juuyu warbled softly, partly in resignation. “If I do, will you remind me?”
“I promise.” She kissed his cheek, hugged the case to her chest, and hurried away.
Jiminy was giving him the strangest look. “Should you have done that?”
“It will be safe with her,” Juuyu stiffly assured.
“But … she was waiting for you. And the way she looked at you.” Jiminy cleared his throat. “She kissed you.”
Juuyu waved that aside. “She is tree-kin.”
“And you’re avian.” Jiminy’s posture shifted into something more apologetic, but there was a stubborn tilt to his chin. “Maybe pheasants are different than phoenixes, but where I come from, gifts and promises mean courting.”
More than a little aghast, Juuyu said, “The Bamboo Stave is hardly a courting gift.”
“Not your average one,” Jiminy agreed. “But as you say … she’s tree-kin.”
