[center][b]Takeshi Shun[/b][/center]

Running around his small studio for the hundredth time that morning, Takeshi tried to find his kit of fine brushes. Cursing to himself for not being more prepared, he tossed some of his sketches off the table. [b]"Ahh, there you are!"[/b] A smile lit his face as Takeshi grabbed the kit and stuffed it into his bag. [i]That should just about do it.[/i] He thought, heading towards the door. As his hand graced the handle however, he paused. He felt like he was forgetting something... [i]The sword![/i] Placing his bag down, Takeshi ran back to his room. Reaching under the bed he found the sword, bundled up just as he had left it. Sighing with relief, Takeshi pulled the bundle out and fastened it around his shoulder.

Leaving his small studio behind, Takeshi adjusted his grip on the bag of art supplies before heading out towards the Emporer's Palace. It was decently busy out, and Takeshi was worried that he would be late for his meeting. He wasn't sure what the meeting was going to be about, all he really knew was that he had been instructed to show up, and to bring the sword with him. He wasn't sure what was so special about this blade, as far as he knew it was a simple decorative piece.

Not wanting to be late, Takeshi quickened his pace, the crowds were starting to gather, and he did not want to be caught up in them. Absently he reached into his bag and began pulling out various art supplies. He wanted to double check that he had brought everything. The instant his attention slipped however, was the same moment he bumped into the young woman.

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After a brief exchange, the woman had slipped her arm through Takeshi's. At first he was taken aback, his face turning various shades of red. Remembering his manners, Takeshi swallowed nervously before nodding, and turning back the way he had been heading. [b]"So, uh..."[/b] He began, [b]"What kind of commision do you have at the palace?"[/b]

"Oh, I have to, uh, meet with some people," Akane replied, guardedly. "What about you?" 

Noticing that she seemed a little hesitant to reply, Takeshi simply nodded his head politely. [b]"My apologies, I do not mean to pry. I am also on my way to a meeting of sorts. Though I am not too sure what it will be about."[/b]

Akane nodded. "That's the castle, I'm pretty sure." She pointed at the building towering above them, even if it was still somewhat in the distance. 

Looking where she had pointed, Takeshi smiled. [b]"You are quite right. It doesn't look too far now..."[/b] He trailed off, not knowing what else to say. Takeshi wasn't much of a social person, especially around females. He was always a little too shy. Continuing towards their destination, Takeshi briefly wondered if he should try to make small talk.