As the morning sun cast a gentle glow over the Yoshiwara mansion in the province of Yamato, Miko, the shrine maiden, found herself unexpectedly entangled in a playful pursuit. The echoing laughter of Lady Ame, the spirited daughter of Lord Yoshiwara, resonated through the corridors as she darted away from Miko, mistaking her for her mother.
Amid layers of flowing robes, Lady Ame showcased remarkable agility, teasing Miko in a manner reminiscent of the way mischievous siblings play hide and seek. The young aristocrat's giggles echoed as she led Miko on a merry chase, weaving through the labyrinthine passages of the east pavilion.
Caught up in the innocent game, Miko momentarily forgot her initial mission to ensure Lady Ame's safety. The child's antics stirred a lightheartedness in Miko, reminding her of the joyful moments shared between older and younger siblings during carefree days. The shrine maiden couldn't help but smile as she played along, embracing the childlike joy that permeated the morning air.
Meanwhile, in another part of the mansion, Lord Yoshiwara and the enigmatic nameless knight emerged from a room.
[Bribery won't work huh? Then...]
The disappointment etched on Lord Yoshiwara's face concealed a deeper sentiment, a silent conviction that time would eventually persuade the foreign knight to accept the offer of serving the Yoshiwara household. The knight, unfamiliar with the local language, navigated the subtle complexities of this foreign realm with a stoic demeanor.
On the outskirts of the mansion, the nameless knight decided to explore the village beneath the Yoshiwara estate. Accompanied by two guards appointed by Lord Yoshiwara, the knight strolled through the bustling streets, observing the ordinary lives of the villagers.
Back in the ornate pavilion, Lady Umi, Lady Ame's stepmother, gracefully stepped forward, gently calling a halt to the young heiress's enthusiastic chatter. "Ame," she said with a warm smile, "Let us not tire our esteemed guest." Her voice held both authority and kindness.
At this point Miko's initial assumption is true about this child. The little girl here is truly a child of Yoshiwara family.
Lady Ame, her eyes sparkling with youthful exuberance, turned towards Lady Umi with a curious tilt of her head. "Oh, Mama, I didn't mean to..." she started, but Lady Umi raised a hand to interrupt.
With a soft reprimand, Lady Umi continued, "It's important to ensure our guests feel comfortable, my dear. Lady Miko has traveled far, and we wouldn't want to overwhelm her."
Miko, standing nearby, appreciated the consideration and offered a grateful nod to Lady Umi. Lady Ame, surprisingly mature in that swift moment, responded with a genuine apology. "I'm sorry, Lady Miko. I didn't mean to exhaust you with my manners. Please, forgive me."
Apologizing sincerely, Lady Ame's words touched Miko, and a genuine warmth flickered in the Shinto priestess's eyes. "No need for apologies, my lady. I'm grateful for your enthusiasm," Miko responded with a gentle smile, appreciating the young heiress's humility.
Lady Umi, observing the exchange, couldn't hide her own pleased expression. "Such ladylike manners, my dear Ame. You handled that with grace," she commended, her smile revealing both pride and affection.
As the three stood in the hallway, a noticeable shift occurred among the female servants, gracefully making detours to avoid crossing their path. Lady Umi, perceptive as always, gestured with a subtle hand motion, acknowledging the unspoken etiquette. "Miko," she said, "Would you honor us by joining our breakfast in my private room? It would be delightful to continue our conversation in a more comfortable leisure."
Miko, feeling flustered, obliged by their request. She nodded graciously, "I-it would be my honor, Lady Umi!"
The trio retreated to the innermost part of the eastern pavilion, where Lady Umi's chamber awaited. The atmosphere transformed as they entered the private space, away from prying eyes. Lady Umi, playing the gracious hostess, invited Miko to take a seat.
Lady Ame, unable to contain her excitement, spoke up. "Miko, please share with us the tales of you and the nameless knight. I've heard rumors, but I'm eager to hear it from you firsthand."
Miko, settling into the room, began recounting adventures that sparked the imagination. The private setting allowed for a more intimate exchange, fostering a connection between the three women. As Miko spoke, the bond deepened, creating a tapestry of stories woven with the threads of fate.
As Miko complied with Lady Umi's invitation, she settled into a comfortable seat, the little child's eyes sparkling with anticipation. Lady Umi, positioned gracefully beside her stepdaughter, listened attentively as the shrine priestess began to weave the tale of her meeting with the nameless knight and the unfortunate event that led them to this estate.