Ryan walked from his families meeting room feeling somewhat uneasy. Of late his duties had become increasingly more annoying. He was tired of petty politics and the constant manoeuvring of noble families. A nice break from matters would be nice… especially the one subject he knew would be dragged up later. The Head of the lower-noble Fujiwara Clan was to be a guest in his home tonight and he would again repeat his desire to make a more lasting alliance between the Kuchiki and Fujiwara, which meant marriage. Even though Ryan made himself quite clear he intended no marriage. ‘Turn her down.’