That roof should flare out a little more, it would be next to impossible to climb atop that way. I'll find someone to talk about that.

Oda thought, his hand resting lazily on the hilt of the sword at his side. The steel of the scabbard felt cool against his palm, a familiar weight that had been with him since his father first placed the weapon in his hands. He was lucky he wasn't a real Concubine in the traditional sense, otherwise he would never be allowed to carry his favored weapon. The moonlight streamed through the paper screens, casting silver patterns across the polished wooden floor as he continued his nightly security checks.

Damn Tadanao. He thought bitterly, his fingers tightening slightly around the hilt. That scheming advisor had orchestrated this whole situation after Oda's injury on the battlefield. A slash across his thigh had ended his military career, but Tadanao had seen an opportunity to place his own man close to the Empress. Oda still wasn't sure if it was an honor or a punishment.

Windows secured and latched...no outside movement, nothing out of place, no secret paperwork hidden... He murmured to himself as he tested each fastening, his military training making him hyper-aware of any potential security breaches. The palace had more than its share of enemies, both inside and out.

Finally, he turned to face the woman in the bed. Her silhouette was outlined against the thin curtains, the faint scent of jasmine perfume reaching his nostrils. "Alright Empress, everything looks good. Want me to fetch one of your Concubines for the night? Jiashu? Airos?"