If you asked him, Taro would say he’d been handling his job as Princess guard very well. He’d done his best to become Lian’s shadow. A large, white, clumsy shadow; but a shadow none the less.

Taro had learned the rhythm of Lian’s morning routines—the way she wakes and presents herself the moment the sun greets the sky. She looked to be made of sun beams and dew drops, warm and impressively perfect. He often wondered if there were ever days she was sick or had some type of bed head. He was used to seeing her be perfect, but he couldn't help wanting to see her be something less meticulous.

As she spoke his name, Taro’s head lifted a level, ears pressed forward and a lopsided grin etched into his features. A gestured paw was all it took for him to oblige her invitation, lilac eyes observing the delicate color of the teas. His smile shifted to something softer, something warmer. Lian was so similar to Izumi. Kind, even to those of lesser status. Welcoming to those that couldn’t always offer any benefits in return.

Bowing in thanks, the man sat to the side of his charge, allowing himself to ease comfortably into their current situation. Less guard and ward, more simply… friends.

Ya know, you’ve gotten pretty good at this princess thing, a teasing smile was followed by a sample of his gifted drink. Not that ya weren’t good before, but you’re a bit different now. the first time they’d met was far from her home, so in his eyes he’d seen a lot of growth.

m’sure you’ll be a great empress one day, he was pretty certain of it. Another sip of his tea, and he felt a comforting sensation bloom in his chest. Reminds me of home. His other home. And his family.