by Eve Kaan
Several explanations are going through my head. 'Come on, let's go to the porch, the heat here is unbearable.' Utano placed a hand on my shoulder and pushed me lightly to walk with her. Perhaps Mother is flattering her because of the gold she has taken from her and doesn't want to return it. Or wants her to agree on having a client whose manners are not of best reputation but good payment is involved, and lastly, there's this option circling through my mind, an option that involves Mother's emotions, but this is on the verge of sanity. Poor Utano, if it's the latter option - but I doubt it. This would mean that she is forced to maintain an intimate relationship with her. I looked at my sister in wonder, and she acts like everything is fine without any suspicious occurrences. Breaking up the silence Utano begun speaking cheerfully. 'I'm going to the client's soon...'
Mother joined us on the porch. Utano continuing, '... that's what gives us great tips. Remember? I taught you about it already.' Three of us sat down on the edge of the porch next to the syringa bush.
Mother lited up her pipe. 'Mother,' Utano looked at her, '... involving our previous conversation. Here's the chance for Uta to get another lesson on tips.'
I don't remember I've ever been more confused, this was everything else but a normal situation. She pulled the smoking pipe out of her mouth to confirm Utano's words, and sister continued, 'here you see Uta, Mother gave me some tips to fool my clients. For example with a sentence she said.' And she repeated what I heard. Mother nodded firmly and added, 'Every lady likes to receive a unique compliment, and now is the occasion because of spring. You should always strive for seasonal comparisons, this is the skill that acquires experience in practice.'
Opposite to Utano's worry, Mother looked at me as if she didn't care what I'm going to think of it, so she opened another subject. 'Uta, Kaoru is coming back after lunch. You will go to pick up the client at stone stairs tonight, that's her visitor. Both of you will be present in the receiving room, but only Kaoru will go with her upstairs. It could be an unpleasant situation if she would want to have fun with you.'
Their situation becomes irrelevant to me. I have to tell them I'm leaving tonight. 'Mother, I'd be happy to pick up the client, but I won't be able to. Today I received an invitation from the Great House. They want me for the next three days.'
Utano pointed a sharp look towards me. Mother was calmly pushing tobacco into the pipe. It was an unusual sighting for me because she is just a casual smoker, taking out her pipe during tea time - as it was customary, and when she was drinking sake. Without looking at me, she asked me when, how and why I was invited. The rest of her sentence she spoke in a whisper only to herself that she hopes I'll finally be sold.
'On my way, I met Madam, she said that Respected lady was looking for me and how she intended to send for me later on.' I've started to lie too much lately, but now I'll add the truth, 'I went to see the Respected lady. She said that she was planing me for some event. I don't think it's anything special. That won't be an intimate gathering, so it's barely paid any coins - she said that.' Mother and Utano looked at each other with frozen faces as if I'm not here. 'She said I must be ready after dinner time, the carriage will arrive to pick me up.'
Utano asked me to repeat the story one more time with more details, and after I explained it to them again, Mother made the conclusion. 'This must be the spring council of all Yoshiwaras managers and owners.' I rejoiced because they finally realized what I was talking about.
'Yes - yes, that's what she mentioned.'
Mother stood up. 'Uta, this is a great honor for our house. They finally invited us! I have to arrange a celebration for your farewell trip.' She took a coin bag with gold pieces in it and quickly left the house.
Sister asked me if I'm even aware of what I was invited on. Due to my confused look and silence, she started to explain. 'This isn't some foolish job Uta. This is one of the greatest acknowledgments of our arts that we have a chance to show. I'm so proud of you. She certainly is impressed with your skills when she invited you. Now, Uta, you will be staying in the Great House until the event's evening, to be focused exclusively on your performance.'
That's a big event, and Rin talked about it as if it was not a big deal at all, just some minor low paid job. 'Utano, what will I do now!? I didn't know... I thought it was just a dance and that's it...'
'You'll do great. If you weren't good already, she wouldn't have chosen you. Well, let me explain from the beginning. For the night lady, this event is important because it can change her status. For example, she can become a Mother or be proclaimed an older sister, she can even be transferred to the Great House at some of the top positions involving organization - but that applies on the older, more experienced night ladies. The most important thing for a girl is the price, it's permanently raised after this, and there's, of course, the part no one wants to mention out loud that involves intimacy...'
I interrupted her, 'What intimacy? I was told that it's not that kind of event.'
'There will be present women who run Yoshiwara's activities in the other parts of the country, such as silk, rice, fish and some others. They rarely use our services because of the distance, one of the occasions are those evenings - sometimes. It's a chance for them to get introduced to the girls, and they reward them with extraordinary high tips. You know what I mean by the introduction...' she looked around and continued, '... everything is sponsored by the Great House and therefore - there are not intimate relations included, it is too expensive. That is, I would say, a loop in the system where rules are abolished for one night,' she continued in a whisper, now I could bearly hear her, 'such an arrangement is in everyone's interest. They don't have to pay the houses, and girls are happy to engage in such relations due to the earnings. In the end, everyone stays silent about it. It goes on for decades.' Rin didn't mention anything about that. I don't care anyway. However, I am in a different position, clients have to pay for me, I'm not in the same category as other girls. Utano stood up. 'I have to start dressing up, or I'll be late. Come with me. I need to give you some fine kimonos, you should be properly dressed in the Great House.'
I chose several kimonos, and Utano was finished with her dressing and getting ready in general by the time Mother returned home. It was explained to me that the chosen girl must be solemnly escorted from the house. Mother went to get Hana to help her with flowers. The food plates are everywhere as well as the pots full of sake. The two of them constantly toasted with sake for good luck that should accompany me while presenting the arts I have learned in our house. Hana seems truly happy. When I packed my bags, slight nervousness started to overwhelm me. I wasn't aware that it was such an important event where I will have to represent the reputation of a house that raised me. Rin gave me a tough task. In fact, most of all I fear that she would doubt my arts and see flows in it or possible mistakes I could make. I must be perfect for her.
Kaoru returned just in time when Utano's departure occurred. She's just standing, looking around herself, in the hallway with confusion written all over her face while the three of us repeated some words of well-known songs in case I would have to sing. Actually, It was just an excuse to let the alcohol sing from them. Mother explained to Kaoru what's the reason for this celebration, but she was far from delighted. I'm guessing that it's hard for her to accept this, so she began to talk about herself. 'I had a wonderful time today. She treated me like I was the only woman she devoted herself to. I'm telling you Mother, now we are closer than ever before to get a first matron in our home. It would bring good fortune to us all.'
Mother toasted in that name, not even listening to her much, but Kaoru continued - talking more and more. 'I mean, of course, it will be an only financial benefit for you, Mother, in that case, I'll be moving out. You would have a free place for a new girl from house 24.'
Hana laughed to some words from the song she articulated herself. She's visibly influenced by alcohol, so without listening to Kaoru, she asked about her previous troubles. 'What about that kimon
o? She didn't dump you Kaoru, as you were so afraid she would?'
This struck the nerve in Kaoru, her tone transformed into a harsh one. 'Of course not Hana. She took me to the tailor's parlour and bought me a new one, after wiping my tears with her silky napkin,' she continued with mockery, 'it's nothing for her, just one kimono and she has enough gold to buy me hundreds of them every day if necessary - she adores me.'
By the end of her last sentence, Hana began to sing loudly. I must admit that - at first, I felt sorry for Kaoru because of that kimono, but with this behavior of hers, my conscience calmed. She looked too provoked to stay in our company for long, so she soon left. Mother and Hana escorted me to the carriage that was already waiting. I could think only of Rin all day long, and I'm so looking forward to seeing her - she'll certainly be there when it's such an important event in question. Maybe she'll even sleep with us in the Great House, to avoid the travel of course, because she's probably spending the whole day there anyway.
CHAPTER NINE
Rin
Uta should arrive any moment now at the Great House, and I'm not there to welcome her. I spent the entire afternoon in the carriage on this hot day. Yoshiwara's fields from the south have flooded, so I had to leave. I'm currently lying in a tiny dilapidated cottage waiting for the morning to come so I can see if we'll be able to save at least some of our crop. Hoping for the time to pass faster, my occupation is on a novel of European author instead of just waiting.
This cottage is supposed to be built for a visit of the owner, but I would say that aunt Etsu never set her foot in here. It's neglected. This modest accommodation really isn't something I'm used to, with habits of indulging myself in comfort. If everything goes according to plan, I should be able to go back tomorrow. I instructed them to prepare the best room for Uta so at least someone would spend the night in a cozy bed. She must have known by now for what kind of event she is preparing herself to participate, and I can't wait to see her nervous about this. Nobody's quite irresistible in nervousness as she is.
I entrusted Gina and Nori for a detailed report.
✽✽✽
Uta
Mother escorted me teary-eyed, expressing her happiness. She's really having an emotional day, it's probably 'those' days of the month.
The carriage stopped.
At the entrance, I asked for Respected lady's whereabouts to notify her of my arrival but before the girl could answer Gina appeared, already approaching me. 'Uta, welcome to our house for a short stay.' I thanked her, keeping the heavy bags in my hands. She took half of my luggage and started walking.
'Rin, Respected lady arranged a room at the top of the staircase for you.'
While climbing, the luggage carrying becomes a backbreaking work - I overdid with kimonos and other necessities in my packing.
Gina accompanied me to a beautiful room I haven't seen before. Large window spreads over the entire length of the wall. It's positioned across the entrance showing a view of a green garden with the sound of a rippling stream. Side walls are covered in mahogany wood with oil lamps hanging from them, which could illuminate this whole room when the night comes. Floor surface is raising on three heigh levels by one step each. Comfortably looking large futon bed is positioned on the right, and wide tea and lounge area occupied the entire left side of the room. Beside the door is a bamboo and rice paper cabinet for necessities I assume. Some flowers are naturally found in porcelain vases, several of them arranged in every corner. I've heard about such rooms from stories about wealthy clients some of the night ladies here visited.
She did make me feel special giving me this room, I should thank her as soon as possible - and not just for this, but for everything.
'Are you satisfied with the room? If you need something or want any change - you can say it, girls will listen to you right away. Of course, while the requirements are reasonable.'
I placed my luggage on the floor. 'The room is magnificent. I would like to express my gratitude to the Respected lady on all that, and especially for the shown trust with this invitation.'
She looked at me with a smile. 'I'm afraid you will have to wait. She's on the way. If everything goes well, she might be back tomorrow. Anyway, she'll certainly be back by the time this event should take its place.' Gina squeezed her eyes and added angrily. 'And I told them to replace that vase. How could they not see that it's cracked?' I turned to the vase, and Gina was already storming out while screaming, 'Vase, I said! - For this room!'
I sadly sat on a futon. She's not here - I was looking forward so much to seeing her. Some girl came in with a new vase, and Gina came right after her. 'Don't be sad, the vase has already been replaced. Let's pretend that the old one wasn't even noticed, shall we? My Nori is exactly the same. Every little thing can make her sad.' I smiled to not become suspicious. Gina switched to giving me the last instructions. 'After you take care of your luggage, come and get introduced to the girls. They are downstairs in the hall where your ceremony was. We need to arrange schedules and event details...'
Only the scent of jasmine was comforting me. In some moments I could smell it here while arranging my kimonos in the closet when Gina left.
✽✽✽
I was dreaming about Rin, about the evening spent in gentleness. After opening my eyes, the scene in front of me made it difficult to distinguish whether this still is a dream or I'm really awake. Through the window view, green tones are sparkling on luxurious crowns with deep blue sky spreading itself in the background, emphasized by traces of white clouds. The sun that is still low on a horizon reflects the shape of every leaf perfectly. This room is magical, but not complete without her. Yesterday I met the girls, I know only one of them from before. She lives in Sayuri's house, so we bypass each other from time to time. I've never met those other girls before, but they told me they know a lot about me - Utano is often speaking about her younger sister, they said.
My excitement grew throughout breakfast. I can't wait to start with this choreography, but I will have to practice by myself to make up for yesterday's absence.
We met in the hall where the ceremony was. Girls showed me the steps they had created yesterday. The whole rehearsal was lead by Nori with occasional Gina's advice. I'll have to practice a lot. These are all movements of an advanced dance. And Utano showed it to me only a couple of times. She told me I was a born talent and that I would be quick to perfect it with just a little more practice. Honestly, I was lazy at the time, but if I could go back in that moment now, I would be happy, maybe even eager to perfect those dance moves. So, the only option left shell be then - an intense training is awaiting me. I'm really struggling, but luckily the girls are patient with me. I don't miss the encouragement both from Nori and the others.
The lunch passed, and Rin hasn't returned yet. I really want her to be here, but on the other hand, it's better she's not - her presence would only make me anxious and embarrassed about my struggle with the dance steps. The choreography is beautiful, but also the hardest I will dance. I wonder why Utano was never invited on such an event. She is truly skilled.
Along with these thoughts and intense practice the sun slowly descended from the sky - I can barely stand on my feet, but no matter what - I have to be persistent. From the tremendous amount of pain, while practicing, I only thought about Rin a few times during the afternoon. In fact, I repeatedly kept imagining that she just came and watched me in secret, and that thought motivated me to continue when I was exhausted or had those powerful pain waves that were making me worn and tired.
Finally, the time for night's retreat came, and I was undeniably in need of some rest - a lot. Despite all the people I'm surrounded by all day, I'm still lonely, I miss her. I would like to keep my head on her skin listening to her heart bits, as it was back then... The melody of her heart is the most beautiful music in this world. Soothing due to its steady rhythm. Am I present in her thoughts as she is in mine?
It was a question after which I had fallen asleep, but the nigh
tmare awakened me shortly after - every step I made was wrong, while Rin was staring at me in displeasing manner - what a disturbing dream that was.
I'm covered with sweat from the stress and exertion. Who would've thought that today I would train even harder, and thinking back on yesterdays exhaustion made it seem almost impossible.
In the afternoon Nori ordered me to rest, she said I would injure myself if this strain on my body continues in that heavy rhythm. I had to lie on a futon in the room where other girls carried on with the practice in front of my eyesight. Nori didn't allow me to retrieve in my room, saying that she wants to keep an eye on me to make sure I really relax this time and take some rest. I'm aware that my dancing skill is not that lousy anymore. I even think I'm better than some of the other girls here. But the problem is that being average doesn't satisfy me - I have to be the best. She will be looking at me, and I have to justify this opportunity. She honored me with this invitation for such an important performance that Mother even organized pompous escort in my honor. I've seen such celebrations in front of Yoshiwara's houses before, but I always associated it with clients visiting. Celebrations are a common occurrence here in Yoshiwara. I hope Rin didn't notice that I never heard of this event before. That would be so embarrassing for me. Melancholy thoughts started to dwell occupying my emotions because of her absence - she still hasn't returned. I arrived full of confidence yesterday, thinking about this as a chance to spend a lot of time with her. And now I'm slowly losing my hope, doubting Gina's words that she will come back before the event's time comes.
From this place, I can look straight at her strawberries. I felt each of her gazes that were caressing my lips - and hopefully, that's not just my imagination. I yearn to ask someone about her whereabouts, but that would make me inappropriately intrusive. Nobody has even mentioned her since my arrival. And in my anticipation, I started to flinch at every sound coming from the doors in the hope of seeing her.