Upon the first proclamation of Queen Kei whereas from thenceforth, all subjects of Kei would stand in her presence, the Kingdom had passed five years of peace and prosperity. Within five years, Kei had gained an alliance with most of the twelve kingdoms as well as produce a "kingdom market" that had at least one posted for each kingdom. Such success of accomplishments caused the King of En to throw a celebration party in Youko's name at his palace.

"Cheers to the Queen of Kei, Youko, for all of her wisdom and fair judgment that has made Kei more beautiful than it has ever been recorded," Rakushun announced as he raised his glass. "To Youko!"

"Youko," everyone praised as they too raised their glasses towards the Queen of Kei who blushed. Once they had all sipped their drink, they returned to their previous chatter before Rakushun's announcement.

Youko smiled as she looked over to her Kirin to see him tip his head to her instead of consuming alcohol. Being a creature of purity, it was forbidden for a Kirin to consume anything the gods believed "impure" which, unfortunately, included alcohol.

"He looks as if he were a proud father," the King of En stated as he leaned towards in. Unsuspected, he placed his hand on Youko's, causing her to jump slightly.

"Keiki is closer to than a father to me," Youko stated as she removed her hand. She always knew that the King of En was flirtatious but sometimes it got the point where it bothered her.

"How much closer?" he persisted. "You have to remember Youko that he is and will always be a Kirin. To commit such an impure act will anger the gods. They will not only punish Keiki, but they too will punish you as well."

"That is the same fate for if anything were to happen between us as well," Youko growled at him while he placed a hand on her leg under the table. Standing immediately, Youko walked gracefully outside without causing a scene in front of the guests.

Sighing heavily, Youko leaned against the rail while breathing deeply in the warm, spring-like smell of En. It reminded her of a tropical rainforest though she never did visit one while she lived in Tokyo.

"If the King of En is bothering you, we can leave," Keiki's voice stated gently behind her.

"No, it's alright," Youko replied softly, looking out towards the bright full moon. "He's not really bothering me Keiki."

"Then if it is not him that is bothering you," he gently turns her around in his arms to face him, "what is?"

"Thoughts that the gods would curse," Youko admitted sadly before laying her head on Keiki's chest. "I won't follow in HER footsteps, Keiki."

He wrapped his arms around her slowly. "I know," he said, kissing the top of her head. "I trust you."

"But I do love you," she whispered into his chest, her words causing his heart to melt at them. His arms tightened around her as he lifted her chin with one hand. He leaned forward, his cold and thin lips pressing gently against Youko's warm, full ones. One small "pure" act was acceptable for now; they did not deny instinct.

"As I do you," he purred back in her ear as he pulled away, wrapping his body around hers more when she shivered.

The moon smiled at the loving couple, giving them the February light of the most romantic night of the year though unknown to the twelve kingdoms.