Despite being such a relaxed and carefree prince, he did notice Akito revert and straighten up. Once more, he had gotten quiet just like before. The prince wasn't sure why, so he mentally back tracked his words to see if he said something of merit that would cause him to do such a thing. Unfortunately, he couldn't think of anything, so instead he decided to figure out something to get Akito's mind off of it, and to something more relaxing. Hironori tapped his chin in thought, trying to figure out what the soldier would enjoy doing. . . [I]'This is harder than I thought.'[/I] He stood again, gesturing for Akito to follow. [I]'I'll figure something out. . . I know I will.'[/i] At the time, Hiro was sort of wandering again, as if he was lost. He caught a fleeting idea for a moment, and his path changed. From wandering in a straight line, he an abrupt turn to his right. 

In a quiet, open room, two older gentlemen were playing a game of Shogi intently. Hironori paused to peek into the room. Both looked up simultaneously and nodded to the prince and Akito before going back to their game. "When father is bored or wants peace and quiet, he comes down to play Shogi or Pai Sho. You can come down here too if you like. They let anyone play, and teach others. I've come down here a few times myself. I'm not the best, but I'm not the worst either." He let Akito linger in the spot before he moved on to his next idea. It wasn't much of an idea actually. It was more of Hiro showing Akito other places to run away to if he felt the need. The places were quiet and serene, though the palace never really got too loud- besides during celebrations. 

"You haven't seen all of our indoor gardens, but we have two or three large ones around the palace. . . Or you can think of it as one really large Two on opposite sides and one in the back. Anyway, it's better to see them for yourself instead of me talking-" A familiar voice in the distance made him pause and quickly turn around. "And of course, we can always start on the opposite side." Though, before he could usher Akito around, he heard his stepmother call out to them.

"Boys! Come here for a moment please. You simply must help me!" With a soft sigh, Hiro turned on his heel and walked over to the Empress who was surrounded by servants aiding to her as she waddled around, and others who were helping her prepare the wedding. 

"You have all of these people. What could you possibly need our help with, hm?" Hironori smiled politely and watched as she used one of them as a crutch. "You should really sit down. You're going to hurt yourself with all the walking around. . ." But his comment was brushed aside. 

"Which side of the palace should we hold the wedding? East or west?" 

The prince shrugged and ran fingers through his hair. "Hm, I suppose east. Less chance of someone falling into the pond. . ?" The Empress seemed to beam at the idea and nodded, pointing to one of the many around her to write that down. 

It appeared they would be stuck there for some time. . .