"They seemed- important to you, my lord."

Teru's dagger slipped beneath Shion's chin, urging it upwards.

"More important than honoring my request?"

"No, my lord," he breathed. The sharp edge turned flat, skimming down along his neck. He shuddered a little, expecting to find the cold sensation unpleasant, but, as it was-

"You have done nothing but attempt to avoid this, but we made a bargain, Shion. I will keep my end, and you will keep yours."

The flat of the blade turned sharp against his skin, and Shion's breath caught.

"Tell me, where did you get this kimono?”

"It was a gift," Shion answered hurriedly. "From someone I loved."

The edge of the blade teased along his neckline. "From whom?” Shion hesitated. “Do not force me to cut it off you.”

"K-Kamui,” he stammered. “Lord Kamui- left it for me-"

The man's movements stopped. He drew the blade gently away.

“You may not be accustomed to obeying without question, but if I am to trust you, you must do as you are told.”

Trust him? With what?

"You must also be honest with me. I cannot act according to information I do not possess.” Lord Teru’s hand reached out to grasp his sleeve. “If I had destroyed this kimono,” he added softly, “you would have considered me cruel and perhaps never forgiven me for it, although I could not have possibly understood its significance.”

That much was undoubtedly true. Shion bowed his head, feeling ashamed.

"So tell me,” Teru whispered, drawing close, “and be absolutely honest. What is it you want from me?”