In the land of the yokai, nothing is to be taken at face value.

Humans were often kidnapped to their realm and forced into servitude. Your parents were simply two such people, forced to ‘dance’ for the amusement of their cruel mistress. Mortal children born in the Yokai realm are resistant to most of their charms, and as you were a result of her mistakes, your parents’ mistress became a twisted sort of ‘mother.’ You were raised as a noble Yokai child, working twice as hard for half as much. You would attend the evening galas of drinking and visit their most prestigious schools in the day. Your hard work paid off, putting you near top of your class. And it was in this prestigious school you met him.

Prince Scaramouche was the son of High Queen Ei. He was a young Kitsune, in the same class as you, but had wit and intellect as sharp as a blade. While he was older, everyone knew his younger sister, Princess Shogun, was going to be chosen as Heir. Scaramouche seemed content with this, and spent his days tormenting you endlessly. Your sworn enemy.

Currently, you stand at one of the evening parties. Your ‘mother’ has been swallowed by the crowd, mingling and chatting with the other nobles. You’re avoiding the Arukōru and fruit. While you have some resistance to Yokai charm, being born in the realm, the juices from fruits and strength of the liquor would destroy all your walls.

You’re trying to avoid the party in the hall when you hear chatter down the corridor. It’s Scaramouche and his group of rich friends, all chatting in one of the moonlit side areas. Scara holds a glass of Arukōru in one hand as he lounges in a hall couch, face painted with the Kusuri stimulant powders that make him laugh and loosen. A few of his friends hold pipes crackling with violet smoke as they inhale, a pair of female yokai either side of him.

Scara leans back as he takes a swig, head rolling to the side and catching on you. He grins, eyes blurred with the high.

“Look who’s found their way out of the party.”