Afternoon Tea Bonding

Eufemia Nezo, Lieutenant of Division Ten and daughter of the infamous rogue Kaimu Miura, scourge of Ladies (and more than a few others) hearts everywhere fussed over tea.

Fussed so much over tea.

The dark haired woman brushed aside messy bangs, the rest of her jet black locks pulled back in intricate knot near the base of her neck luckily to keep it from falling into everything. It still hung most of the way down her back despite being pulled up like that, flaring at the ends in a soft almost floof. Was this tea going to be good enough? She had invited the man over... He had returned and she had wanted to meet the other grandchild of Setsuna, or well one of the others...

Xarath was the Captain of the Seventh, heading up the academy, and he was like Lakshmi and Masaru. Thus she had wanted to meet him and say hello even if it took all her carefully reserved and stored courage for such a thing.

When the man had agreed to such a meeting, she had spent hours attempting to figure out how to make a nice afternoon tea visit and practiced her butt off while Nozomi helped her learn. The older servants, who treated Mia with the same fondness they reserved for their Lord and his sister, had also helped as best they could as she was slowly growing used to their presence as well.

She only occasionally jumped into closets and rooms to avoid being seen by people in the halls! Mia was proud that it had fallen to a mere four times a day! The three servants who had been assigned to her had helped immensely as well. The Triplets were a precious treasure to her, helping her with proper clothing at times and doing her hair when Masaru couldn't help...

But none of them could be here to help her with this, she must face the Xarath alone... Tea and snacks, lots of snacks that she had made herself in preparation awaited the man whenever he arrived. She did as well, sitting in a room and staring at the table. Her cloak was nowhere to be seen and she wore a rather dark blue colored kimono, still not as expensive or well made as what the triplets and other servants had attempted to get her in... But it was made by her, for her so she preferred it.

Just because she had moved in was no reason for her to immediately be forced to become...become a noblewoman... and dress...

Mia's face turned red as she stared down at the table, her violet eyes trained on a dark spot in the wood grain. At least they still let her cook for herself...

To say the invitation came as a surprise would have been an understatement. He rarely even saw Masaru, even less than he had met with Setsuna which had been almost never in the first place. So why would Masaru's little dove invite him of all people. Surely everybody knew by now he was far from being noble.

Maybe it was curiosity, maybe it was politeness, maybe even compassion for somebody like him who was suddenly stuck in such a high and mighty place - It did not matter what it was in the end, he had agreed to the invitation.

It did not mean he was looking forward to it.

A shaky breath escaped his lips as he lowered his hands down onto the flat surface of his vanity. Green eyes stared at his reflection which he was not fond of at the slightest. He hated his whole appearance, everything about it, and yet spent many hours on it.

Neatly curved, black eyebrows. Pale, silky smooth skin. Rosy lips. He would keep it natural, would not hide behind make-up when actually going out. He had no clue if his Division knew or not, but would not dare to show anybody his more... feminine side.

His tongue clicked.

No, he could not afford it. Would have to keep it hidden inside his room. He was not even certain if Masaru and Setsuna had been seeing him like this in those last years.

And now he was wasting time.

The man sighed, then his tongue clicked once more, as he pushed himself away from his vanity. His hair, which once had been able to reach his ass, brushed against his shoulders and his silky, blood red kimono moved with him. It was a male cut with golden leaves, which shimmered gently in the light, trailing from the bottom hem up towards the middle.

It was loosely tied closed with a golden sash which caused the silky material to almost slide off his shoulders.

He paid it no mind however and instead turned on his heels, his wooden sandals clicking gently against the floor as he did so, before heading out off the room and then of his Division.

-

The walk towards the mansion did not take him that long - not as long as he had wanted it to take anyway. He was nervous, something that caused his expression to darken even further, and his mind a state of uproar. This meeting made no sense. Why would she of all people invite him? Why would either of them invite him really? He hid away in his hole where he entertained himself and himself alone.

Meetings were not really his cup of tea.
Especially personal ones.

"Fucking bullshit." he muttered as he reached up to knock against the hard wooden door leading into this far too huge mansion.

As a child he would have given anything to live in such a place.
Then again, as a child he had wanted to be a princess.

Now, that had not really changed, had it?

He snorted, but almost chocked on that sound as suddenly the door was opened, his fist still lifted to knock once more.

"Ah." His tongue clicked and his expression regained its sour look. "I have been invited." Or had this all just been a joke to fool him? It would not seem like something Masaru did, but he knew nothing about his little lover girl.

The servant however was quick to nod and with a small bow gestured him to step inside. His wooden sandals again clicked against the floor and his eyes, as every time he stepped into this mansion, took a look around.

"I will inform the lady."

Pulled back out of his thoughts Xarath was quick to glance down at the small figure which was quick to head off and fetch Mia.

What had he gotten himself into?

"My Lady?"

The voice was a soft one, one of the triplets named Suou, peeked his curious head in as Mia jolted up from her slowing growing panic. "Y-Yes?"

"Your guest is here. Shall I show him in?"

"N-No I can go greet him!" Mia stuttered as she scrambled to stand, the kimono parting where it shouldn't do to modifications she had made in the design herself. Less restriction meant she panicked less when fleeing away from others...

She followed Suou down the halls, still not used to its large and confusing design and thus glad for the silent guide. He was the most talkative of the three and probably was the reason he was sent as the messenger.

It didn't take her long to reach the entrance and she wobbled along behind Suou, who waved her ahead with a bow as she finally met somewhat face to face with the man who was like Lakshmi. Shorter black hair, pretty and vivid green eyes... he was rather tall and slender but that wasn't what she noticed first despite taking that all in at once.

What she noticed first was... well... The blue of her kimono was pure but it was rather plain in design otherwise, small waves of a slightly darker navy the only real extra color on it. At least her obi was a brighter blue that set it off better... But it was nothing compared to the man's gorgeously colored one. Those shimmering leaf designs, that bright flashy style... So cool... so pretty... She wondered if Masaru or Papa wanted one...

Her violet eyes took it all in before she squeaked as she realized how rude it had been to just stare and turned a shade rather similar to an apple, before bowing hard enough to toss her hair over her shoulder and around her head. Her voice was soft and held more than a bit of nerves in it as she greeted the cousin of her lover. "P-Pleasure to meet you... I-I am Mia, u-um no I am Eufemia N-Nezo and um... Th-This way please?"

Lead him to the tea room before falling over was a good plan! Should she raise from her bow... She should... Mia raised her head slowly, almost fearing how badly she had messed this up already. Her clothes had been so subpar! Maybe she should have let the servants dress her in something.

He wondered if he should run. His eyes certainly eyed that door like a long lost lover while the hard wood almost seemed to beckon him over. However before he had the chance to turn fully around he heard footsteps coming his way. He immediately tried to straighten and lift his chin, even though he was usually the type to make himself as small as possible - he always stood out like a sour thumb; it was so unladylike!!!

Ah, there she was. Dark green hues were just as readily brushing along her frame and appearance and he found himself envious. She was gorgeous. However not cheaply so. Not like a whore trying to appeal. Beauty came to her naturally and she did not even seem to notice it. The kimono seemed to underline this innocent prettiness, however before he had the chance to focus further onto it he noticed how she was staring at him.

Really staring.
His tongue clicked.
She was not stopping.
His tongue clicked again.
Oh god she probably thought he was ugly.
Once more a clicking of his tongue became audible.
She was probably wondering why she had invited such an ugly person.
And again his tongue clicked, and then once more, however before it could click yet again she suddenly spoke up.

Oh?
"The pleasure is mine." he answered silkily as his eyes trailed along her form once more. His usual frown lingered on his face, but there was no malice as he looked down at her, waiting for her to move or speak.

However his tongue clicked again.
Hell, at least he was not stuttering!

Mia shook slightly as she wondered if she had offended him already... He had been clicking his tongue and maybe that was a nervous tic of annoyance? She had no basis for that already and instead of focusing on that she reached up to the hair that was still hanging over her shoulder. He was frowning... Xarath Shiru the Captain was frowning... Stop focusing on the bad!

Turning to the side, she held out her arm in invitation followed by her leading him down the hallway in what she hoped was proper protocol. It wasn't far to the room luckily, hopefully she wouldn't get them lost on the way... "I-I have a few different teas and snacks available. I-If you have any preferences, p-please tell me and I can make sure there's nothing you don't like."

Be a good hostess... be a good hostess to the pretty kimono captain. Who is your dearest's cousin... She could do this and attempted to hold her head high as she wobbled along nervously. Which room was it again, which doorway... "I am sorry for my um... unease. This is all very new and I just um... wished to greet you properly since... Y-You are Masa's... I m-mean Lord Shirakawa's cousin."

She was again staring at him! His eyes widened ever so slightly and his tongue clicked once more. Oh god how much he wished he had taken his pipe with him! Smoking actually managed to cool him down enough not to freak out too much! Was he really that ugly to herß?

Maybe. Maybe not. He would never find out, most fortunately, for she suddenly spoke up again. "Oh yes, of course." he murmured silkily and then moved to follow her. He made sure to remain one step behind her, like every good dog would - the thought had him cringe slightly, while his eyes concentrated more on her beautiful form than the way they were taking.

She stuttered again however and it was becoming harder and harder to concentrate on her appearance and outfit. At long last, once she was done with her babbling again, he stopped down with a sigh.

"This has to stop." His dark green eyes settled onto her. "There is no reason to stutter around me. I followed your invitation - I am not here to chop off your head, rest assured." And yet his own tongue clicked again. "Neither does this have to be something you feel you must do. Setsuna loves Masaru." He would refrain from calling her old hag now - he was not certain the girl would understand. "I am merely related to her by blood. There are no family feelings. No bonds, no anything." It was his own fault, was it not? He would not come crawling now. "So if you don't want to do any of this then let me know. I won't harbor any bad feelings towards you and your.... lover? and will take my leave."

"...I'm not used...to talking. At...all." Mia took a deep breath as she too stopped in place, trying to settle her nerves and speak without her usual stranger stutter. It was a miracle she was talking at all! But of course he didn't know that, he didn't know her at all so it was probably just annoying. It didn't matter one bit though, she would do her best and get better at this. If that meant putting up with a bit of annoyance from those around her... well that was the price she paid.

"I don't feel I have to. I want to." Her hands clenched the kimono at her side as she pushed herself speak calmly, if a bit slowly. Violet eyes rose from the floorboards to meet the pretty green ones and she held more than a bit of determination and steel in them, if often hidden by her shy words. The smile on her lips though warmed them a bit, still soft and nervous but not forced in the least. "I...wish to have tea and talk. I-If you wish to leave you may, but I really would like you to stay."

She winced as one stutter escaped but held his gaze despite her wish to turn and hide. No! She wouldn't fail in this! Its what she practiced so hard to do, look others in the eye and speak to them. He'd called Masaru her lover and thus gotten a nod of acknowledgement at least as far as the term was concerned. Mia allowed herself another deep breath before continuing. "Besides... I'd at least like to learn where you got such a gorgeous kimono from."

No stutter that time! Hopefully she could keep it up and still be as honest as usual...

One slender, dark eyebrow arched as he glanced down at the petite girl. "If you do not wish to talk just don't talk." It really was that easy. Besides, he was not one to enjoy talking all that much either - Silence would actually be preferred. Not that he wanted her to shut up if she had something to say. He was not that rude in the end.

His tongue clicked again as his dark green eyes settled on her cheeks. He was not one to look others into their eyes - it had his nerves run far too high and he had no intention to be a tongue-clicking-mess in front of her. That would not be beautiful at all.

Not that he was beautiful.
Oh god he was so ugly.

His tongue clicked again, loudly so, and his head lowered slightly further.

Keep calm. Keep calm. No reason to have a depression attack right in front of the girl who was trying so hard.

A shuddering intake of breath, then he stepped forward and if she allowed placed the tips of his fingers against her spine. A gentle, not at all violent, pressure was applied to have her stand just a little straighter.

"You're pretty. Don't hide it." he murmured and then lowered his hand to sidestep her. Merely two steps forward, into the direction they were heading to, before he stopped down again and turned his head to take a look at her.

"I have been invited and therefore I shall stay." he assured the lovely girl. "So please, show me the way. I shall trait my tailor information while we have our cup of tea."

"I'm not in a position to not talk." Mia shivered as she forced the words out, but it seemed to get easier for her to to speak a bit despite the inquiring eyebrow lift. She could be silent in a bit when she had learned a bit more about this rather mysterious and aloof man who looked at her cheeks. Was there something wrong with them? They began tinting a bit red at the thought. Was there something wrong with them other than the blush now?

The tongue clicking must be something that was normal for him, though Mia wished to ask about despite how rude it might be. Besides he kept himself very well groomed, she wondered if he had tips...

Mia's immediate response was to straighten her back at the touch, not avoiding it in the least though she was rather shocked. Her eyes were wide as the color in her cheeks deepened, not expecting such a compliment as the man then dropped his arm and stepped around her. "E-Eh?! U-Um thank you. I will try better in the future!"

Try better in the future... for what!? To look pretty?

Her head shook lightly as she attempted to force such weird thought patterns away, as well as her awkward response. She began walking once again at his prompting, the right room just a bit down the hall now that she had calmed enough to remember. "Thank you, I appreciate it."

Mia looked up at the man as she passed him, smiling sweetly before stopping in front of a door only several feet from them. She opened it and turned to bow to him, waving the oddly pretty man in first. "Please make yourself at home."

There was something elegant about him that she liked and wished to emulate, he just was graceful. She wondered if he'd give her more tips.

In no position to not talk? Try better in the future? He could not deny that she was confusing him greatly, something that revealed itself in another clicking of his tongue, but he did not comment on it. "Hn." He turned once more and again took a few steps forward. However they were slow enough for her to move ahead of him.

"I'm capable of enjoying tea in silence. I'm not a man that needs to be entertained by somebody else. So you are in the position where you can be silent." he murmured silkily and as she joined her side he looked back down at her out of the corner of his eyes. "Neither do you have to try for anybody but yourself. You are beautiful. I think it would be a shame if you tried to hide your beauty behind hunched shoulders. What you decide to do in the end however is your decision." he assured her before he stopped down also.

He was polite enough to also bow at her before stepping into the room she had picked out for the two of them. Of course his dark green eyes immediately took a look around. He was quick to decide he would never feel at home here. The amount of wealth crushed him. Made him feel extremely small and unimportant. However his chin lifted in something close to arrogance while he moved towards the low oak table in the middle of the room. He gracefully lowered himself onto a wide, plush red pillow before settling his attention back towards her.

Mia hadn't noticed the man fall behind once more, but she couldn't help smiling at his words. Even if her reply was slow, it was obvious she was becoming more accostumed to the man in that she could speak without many stutters. It had helped he had shown her nothing but respect and kindness, and been honest as well. She always did well with those who were honest... "I would like to get to know you, I have to ask things to do that."

Though that meant the silence wouldn't be awkward if she had to pause and gather her thoughts, which was another relief on her part. It also meant she might not have to fully explain everything... so another soothing and not worrisome thought to bother her. His words were once again startling but they also brought a sweet smile to her lips and she gave him a rather firm nod as he entered the room. "I am doing it for myself and for Masaru. I...am not allowed the luxury of being quiet and hiding anymore... A-And thank you. For calling me beautiful."

Taking compliments gracefully was not her strong suit and she could not fight the blush staining her cheeks at the man's word once she followed him inside and closed the door.

If Xarath felt odd in such luxury, Mia mirrored his feelings just as much though both might be unaware of such. Masaru's family spared no expense for most things, even greeting guests in guest rooms. From the delicate tea pot and cups, to the cushions, to the expensive wall hangings all done in a traditional style that made Mia feel like a bull in a china shop. She almost worried her hands would dirty the soft vase in the corner filled with flowers picked from the gardens if she touched it.

Taking a seat across from him, the woman sat very carefully as she made sure her kimono was correctly placed before reaching for the tea pot and cups. As long as she didn't drop it, there would be no panic on her part. As she poured them both cups, her eyes glanced up at the quiet man and she smiled once more. "You are really graceful and elegant. I could learn a lot just by watching you... So thank you for your words too. I'll take them to heart, I want to take them to heart."

Poor Mia was not the only one who felt like an elephant in a china store. He always felt far too big, hence why his own shoulders often hunched over as much as possible, too fat, just far too much. It was almost painful that he could not be delicate like a woman. Not like any woman however, if he was being honest with himself, but a princess. Oh what he would give to be one.

His tongue clicked again as his dark green eyes traced along the expensive china until the beautiful girl in front of him called for his attention once more. "You call me graceful and elegant?" Was she making fun of him? Oh she had to. How could such a perfect girl compliment him if it was not to tease his own clumsiness?

His tongue clicked twice and his head lowered enough for his eyes to stare at her chin instead of her own unique orbs. By then his outfit was not all that graceful any longer - the silk trailing down his right shoulder, the hem opening at his chest to reveal pale, smooth skin, while also parting at his thighs.

"Y-you do not have to thank me for kind words however." he murmured before his tongue clicked again. "I would not speak them if I did not mean them." He had no reason to show false politeness after all. "Anyway." His head lifted slightly again, but his eyes did not dare to meet hers yet. "You said you wanted to ask me questions?"

"I-I am sorry if that offends you. But you... The way you walk. Your movements, how you sat for example." She may be shy and quiet generally, but her violet eyes missed little due to that. Xarath just screamed elegant and graceful! At least... possibly to her untrained eyes. "I'm not really anyone special, I'm just getting used to these things myself. This finery and well this lifestyle... But I really do mean it in the best possible manner. I-Its admirable."

Mia probably made a fool of herself by both rambling and saying such things and she quickly quieted to sip her own tea carefully. Her eyes trailed from the man back down to the table and the snacks offered for him, several types of manju, daifuku and even some dango. She wondered if she should hold the plate and offer him some but froze for the moment while indecision warred in her. His words caused her glance back up, looking at the pretty emerald eyes of the man before she reached for a plate in offering.

"But I want to." Mia held in a small chuckle, Xarath's tone seemed to ease her. "I do not know what kinds to ask... What do you ask about someone to get to know them better?"

She felt she had a bit better of an idea of this person but didn't know... For sure, but they were definitely an elegant, honest, blunt person. For Mia that put her at ease, they would definitely tell her when she was pushing boundaries. "Maybe what kinds of things you like doing?"

His tongue clicked. Then once more. Then again. All during her speech the sound was audible while his cheeks flushed slightly and his green eyes averted, unable to meet her violet gaze. How could anybody be so sweet? Was she lying to please him? But that would hardly make any sense. He was not too big with Masaru, the man could not care less if she got along with Xarath or not. So what was this all about?

He let out a shaky breath as her movement pulled him out of his worried thoughts. The sound immediately stopped while blinking eyes glanced down at the offered plate. He'd just get fat. No, fatter. Oh god he was so ugly. Was she making fun of him now?

Wide eyes stared up at her as his tongue clicked twice once more. "I..." he chocked out as he tried to regain power over his own voice. He could roll under his bed and be pitiful in his division. Right now it would not be fair to her.

Exhaling quietly again he slowly nodded. "I think so." he murmured silkily. "I'm unfortunately not somebody who does much of social talk either. Or meetings." Besides the captain ones anyway. "What I like doing..." His head tilted slightly while the smooth tips of his fingers brushed against his chin. "I do not really know." Oh he knew very much. Painting, shopping, sleeping. But he was a captain. Was it really safe to share these things? "I think I'm quite a bore."

Those clicks again... Did they mean he was upset or were they just a sound he made? There was some sort of pattern, Mia was beginning to think. It had to do with maybe fluster or discomfort?

"Um, did I do something? T-To make you uncomfortable. I'm really sorry!" Mia felt it was best to outright ask, despite how awkward it might be than try to guess at his motives or feelings. She was really bad at that most of the time... her eyes were concerned though, shining at the man who would not look into them one bit.

It had taken her forever to be able to do such things so she sort of understood and wondered if he was like her at all in that? Neither of them were good at this though and it eased her more as Xarath admitted such. Her posture relaxed just a bit as she settled the tray back down. He could eat as he pleased and one soft hand pulled back across the table with a small snack for herself tucked away in it.

A manju, she smiled as she brought it up to her lips but didn't take a bite. Well that was a surprise but she shook her head, not accepting his words. Mia was an honest person, if shy and if this person was just as shy it made it easier on her to speak her mind. "I don't think you are a bore. You seem layered and quiet but not a bore..."

"S-So you don't like doing things..." She seemed at a loss for a moment but decided to take a small bite of the manju as her eyes turned thoughtful, trying to figure out how to properly ask other questions and what ones to even ask at all.

"E-everything-g i-is f-fine." Of course he cursed himself in exactly this moment. Nothing was fine, but it was not her fault. Telling her so would therefore not be fine. However lying, lying had him stutter and that in end did not make him very believable when telling her not to stutter.

Maybe he really should not be here.
A deep breath escaped his flaring nostrils while his tongue clicked yet again.

"You do not need to apologize, really." he continued, calmer now for it was the truth. His eyes however still did not look up, but at least they had a task now. Deep green orbs watched her pick up the food and bring it up towards her lips. He would not eat yet. It was too early. Maybe a small bite towards the end - he could not risk gaining fat.
It would not be all that beautiful after all, even though he had not cared that he had filled out a little over the years. He had gone from boy to man after all.

Quite unfortunately, no?
His tongue clicked twice.

She did sound slightly disappointed however as she continued. Or was that just him being disappointed he could not tell her more? "There are some things but-" He shrugged. "What do you enjoy doing?" Better make the conversation about her.

It seemed there were problems but Mia accepted Xarath's wish to not push those subjects. He did not wish to speak of it and it wasn't her place to force or push. Even if she was curious and her instincts drove her to attempt soothing as she finished the manju.

"I will try not to then, but well... If somethings bothering you that's not too personal I can try to listen if you need someone." A sweet smile spread across her lips just for Xarath, her soothing needs too strong for her to not speak such. He seemed like a kicked dog at the moment, worried and nervous even if he wasn't really. She couldn't read him too well, but her eyes were watching him carefully for any more signs of distress. There was no reason for her to upset him, though still those tongue clicks had her wondering what thoughts hid behind those quiet green eyes.

"There are? They can't be bad then." Though she wouldn't push, Mia felt if he was holding back his hobbies he didn't need to respond. Maybe they were as embarrassing as a few she had. Hobbies used to rule her life after all... Which ones were safe to repeat though? Not the video game ones... She fiddled with her cup of tea, now cooled due to inattention paid to it before finally speaking up. "I-I sew and read, and cook too. I guess embroidery counts too..."

"Its why I am so interested in your kimono. I'd like to try making one as pretty now that I've seen it." It had inspired her and her hands itched to make something just as pretty, then force her father or lover to wear it... Her eyes practically glowed with her eagerness to attempt such a task. Talking about sewing was an easy way to get her to stop being so shy...

Having somebody to listen to. His tongue immediately clicked again as his eyes finally fixed the girl's exotic gaze again. He had nobody to listen to, however that was hardly the fault of the others. He was aware he was not easy to go along. He was also aware of the fact that he rather was alone, just to be depressed when he was actually alone. However that was a state he had grown used to years ago already. Still, having somebody to talk to....

But what was he supposed to talk about? He could not simply start listing his problems. His concerns were not those of others after all.

Yes, quite the nice concept - talking with somebody about problems. Though in the long run it probably did him more bad than good.

He was not one to voice this however. Instead he continued to listen to her as she spoke more of herself. "Sewing. That is quite a nice hobby for a pretty girl like you." he murmured softly while his long, slim fingers played with the hem of his own kimono. Like usually he was not ware how the silky cloth parted to reveal more skin than hide it. Or he simply had stopped caring over the years.

"Masaru must be quite proud of you." he added thoughtfully. Of course he liked sewing also. He was not going to run to a tailor for every little piece - he was not that rich. Not wealthy at all actually. However he was a man. And not just that but the captain of a Division. He was not going to lose his face by admitting he liked sewing.

His tongue clicked twice.

"I can bring you along then - meet the tailor who creates most of my kimonos." Not all. Some were done by himself, others he bought in the human world. "I am certain she would be enarmored with you." Yes, it was easier to talk about things others were good in.

Or those he was not good in. "I cannot cook at all." he suddenly started again. "It usually takes a rather explosive end." His eyebrows furrowed. "Or simply tastes like shit."

That... was a no? Mia wanted to learn this language of tongue clicks, it would be quite useful she felt. Xarath was someone who set off all her instincts, every last one of them, to soothe and help. However she felt she'd be rebuffed if she spoke as such. Besides... He was an adult. It wasn't her place to force her mothering on them as well...

Mia was pushed from her mothering thoughts as he complimented her again. She flushed, lighting up like a beacon before her head turned. A pretty girl like her... a nice hobby... It took a moment for her to get her voice under control, not trusting it to speak without stutters for that period as she got used to it. "Th-Thank you again. Its really fun and soothing..."

She felt just that last part was unnecessary to add but her thanks had been awkward again! On top of that... Did he not notice how much his kimono was parting though? Mia turned her head back just in time to see the kimono the man was wearing shifting more.

"Oh! I don't think so. He does like the robe I've made for him though. I'm not really sure if its proud of levels though." Mia's eyes darted back up to Xarath's face, distracted from her attempts to warn the captain about his clothing. She reached out to grip the tea pot carefully and pour herself another glass though before examining her guest's. It needed more...

"Would you like more?" Leaning up carefully, a few strands of her jet black hair fell over her shoulder as she smiled. He never looked in her eyes but he could sometimes seem to look at her face... What was he really hiding in there?

Two clicks must mean...something good. Maybe. Her smile only grew sweeter though at the offer to meet his tailor... A professional who did such good work...! Mia felt that would be a good way to improve her own skills, learning and seeing how someone else did their work. "I would really like that Xarath, I-I hope I'll make a good impression and not embarrass you at least... Um, your kimono keeps falling open though."

"...Explodes? H-How?" Now her stutter was caused by fighting laughter and Mia brought her free hand to her lips to try and hold back a few soft giggles. "I've never even heard of that... That's amazing, there has to be some sort of special skill in cooking to be able to do that."

Her words were honest and surprised, but also rather awed. How... could one explode?! Tasting bad was a given, she hadn't started out being good at cooking herself...

He nodded, his dark eyes by now resting on her lips. "If it's fun and soothing you should continue with it. It is always good to have something that calms one after a hard day." He shrugged. "And I think if Masaru was not proud of it he would not wear it." Or - if it was no good is sidekick nobles would not allow him to wear it. However he was not daring to tell her that. She wanted to become one of them after all and he would not want to ruin the first good conversation the had had since well, most likely ever, by sharing too much of his opinion.

Better remain silent. Or at least help her switch the topic.

And so he nodded while his eyes trailed down towards his own cup which he finally pushed forward, towards her. "Yes, please." he murmured. Again his eyes lifted and he found himself fixated on the strands of hair untils he spoke up again.

He blinked slowly, as if coming out of a daze and looked towards her faze again. "You wouldn't make a bad impression on what?" His eyebrows furrowed in confusion before he glanced down at his bare chest. How bothersome! She must be disgusted by his ugliness.

His head immediately lowered further while his hands made quick work to close the silken cloth tightly together. It was too wide, most likely going to slip off his shoulders soon again, but at least now she was safe from the sight of him.

His tongue clicked all the while it took him to close his kimono, until she spoke up again. Then it stopped and his eyes slowly trailed back up towards her lips.

"It happens if you don't pay attention." he murmured, his voice having gone slightly quieter. "I don't care much about food so I find myself unattentive or leaving the kitchen before finishing to cook." He shrugged, trying to shake off the depressing feeling that slowly took hold of him. Better not.

A shaky breath, his prosture straightening slightly again and then he continued to speak. "Nevertheless, I doubt you could leave a bad impression. Don't worry about it." Now then? Maybe? "Maybe..." he started carefully. "You could show me some of your work?"

"...I think you are probably right. Thank you for reminding me." Mia's eyes widened just slightly at Xarath's words, his reminder that Masaru wouldn't wear something he wasn't proud enough to wear... But they softened almost immediately after as her warm smile resurfaced at the kindness this man was showing her.

As he fixed his kimono, she politely averted her gaze and instead focused on the tea. Staring at the tea pot, she focused on the elegant design and pouring of the tea to refill his glass. Be elegant. Channel the elegance of the person already in the room! He seemed to be confused by her thoughts of making a bad impression but it was quickly pushed aside as she settled the ceremic pot down once more.

Mia took in the quieter tone and felt like she might have insulted Xarath, her hands coming up and making soft waving motions as she emphasized her words. "Um but I don't think its too bad. That kind of is amazing anyways, if I forget things they just burn. If you think about it you somehow weaponized food!"

Her hands clasped at the end and she tilted her head with a small smile, attempting to cheer him up. However he cheered her up with his words and she felt a small blush on her cheeks as he rather certainly spoke of her lack of making a bad impression. "U-Um thanks again. I can go get some! Ah, wait am I supposed to send someone to grab it..."

She stood up quickly, in her excitement to show Xarath the work he requested but she paused as she stood there confused. Should she rush off or...should she wait and take care of her guest? But the guest was asking... Mia's hands clasped together as she looked between the door and Xarath with a small worried frown. "Maybe... I don't wish to leave you here alone though. Would you mind waiting a moment? I can go grab something. Oh! Wait I am wearing it. I made this."

Aha solution! Though maybe he wished to examine it up close? She would wait for his wish, the kimono. It was a dark midnight blue, far too somber for occasions but she preferred darker colors most of the time. The under layer was a burnished golden tone though, with soft elegant goldenrod flowers embroidered on the sleeves and edges. Slits ran partially up the sides that revealed more of the under layer that seemed far too loose to be appropriate but were her own special add ons. It allowed her more freedom of movement and caused less panicking... Her obi was, against most traditions she would assume

His eyebrow arched and for one moment his expression was actually dumbfounded before it formed into his usual scowl once more. "Weaponized food. That certainly is a new one." he murmured while reaching up to tap his chin as if he was actually really thinking about that idea. Not that he was - but they both knew that already.

His hand lowered again as she tried to make up her mind about something. Indeed - have somebody fetch it or not. He most likely would have somebody send, however he always had had a horrible attitude so that was no surprise.

Instead he lifted his hand in a calming gesture but by then she already jumped up and excused herself just to- This all was moving a bit too fast for him. With a blinking of his eyes he lowered his hand again before his head tilted.

"You realize I can be alone." he murmured. "Your work is very beautiful." His eyes actually lowered to stroke along her wardrobe before lifting up towards her face again. His tongue clicked. "However if you want to show me something else or more I wills sit patiently until you return."

Mia realized that Xarath was humoring her, making her smile more as he seemed to accept her words at least somewhat due to that. Even if he was just playing along, it was sweet of him. Mia was quickly beginning to think that Xarath was truly nice, even though she'd briefly had the thought before. There was not much to fear from someone like this and her manner was rather swiftly relaxing from the fear filled jolting of earlier.

Least he wasn't upset by her rather excited actions, despite the blush that now filled her cheeks as she nodded slowly. "A-Ah... Thank you. I think I should go retrieve it myself, the bedroom is a bit messy right now."

It would be a hassle to send someone else to fetch something she knew right where to find, while someone else would have to look. She had been busy lately with sewing quite a few things, so it was all spread out in piles. Xarath had said it was beautiful though... This simple kimono, maybe he'd like the robe she'd worked extra hard on for Masaru?

"Please feel free to help yourself to anything! If you prefer anything else instead, I can definitely get you something you'd like." Mia bowed a bit before backing up to leave the room and her new friend.

He was actually amused by her antics. And found himself relaxing also by her attitude. She did not stress him as much out as others. Especially other girls. She was actually quite... easy to get along with?

That was unusual.
His tongue clicked as he glanced at her almost curiously before regaining his control.
Couldn't stare like that at her - he'd freak her out once more.

"Thank you, Mia." was all he sais in a soft, smooth voice and even bowered as much as he could in his current position. His dark eyes remained on her form as she left and his tongue clicked once more.

What did it hurt to keep her entertained?
Besides, maybe if he begged really nicely she would make him something too.

And he could not deny that it was nice to have a person talk with him.
About things he actually liked, that was.

With another tongue click he turned and stared back down at the low table. However he only helped himself to his cup of tea, not daring to take a bite of the sweetness she had laid out for them.

He did not want to become fat-er.

"Welcome!" Mia grinned brightly before sliding the door closed and turning, attempting not to rush down the halls in a very unladylike manner. People working gave her small nods and smiles as she passed, Mia trying to return them as best she could while heading into the sections of the manner reserved for the head and his family.

It wasn't a long walk, especially with her hurried pace and it took no more than a glance into the bedroom once the door was open to find it. The robe was set out on the made bed, someone having prepared it for sleep or bathing for the Master of the House when he returned from work. Mia picked it up and examined it, hoping her workmanship wasn't too bad at all... Considering hand sewing and embroidery had been her one true hobby for decades, on top of singing and other such amusements she could do alone, she wasn't entirely insecure about her skills in that.

However her own eyes picked out flaws in the workmanship, that she hoped Xarath wouldn't judge her too harshly for. The woman still had things to learn, she felt as she looked over this love filled work.

Taking the folded robe with her, she hurried back to the room before gulping as nerves settled in and she stepped inside. The sleeping robe was held to her, but it was a deep deep midnight blue... However that wasn't what was unusual about it, instead it was the hundreds upon hundreds of embroidered silver stars that covered the work. Some were larger and some smaller, there were constellations that could be picked out for someone that knew them better than she and most were more nautical shaped than just stereotypical star. It had taken her a while to get this done and had been a labor of love, though she hoped to improve next time since some of the stars seemed a bit misshapen to her eye. Besides, she needed to find a better thread color for them even if this had been a shimmering one. Maybe next time match the color of the stars to their true counterparts?

It truly was something she'd had to alter the design of, adding a softer inner layer to keep the embroidery from rubbing Masaru's skin, and was a bit heavier due to this. Mia smiled as she entered, her excitement and nerves showing as she held out the folded work to Xarath with a bow. "Thank you for waiting. I hope this meets with your approval..."