CHAPTER 1 The Proposed Marriage Partner School had ended for the day, and it was a bit hot as the early summer afternoon sun streamed in through a building window. Inside, the floor and ceiling gave off the scent of moist wood, and the plaster walls were painted white. Long, narrow wooden desks each seated two, and the chairs neatly lined up behind them were covered with splinters. The desks and chairs faced the front of the room, which was dominated by a blackboard that bore streaks of white—still visible, though it had been wiped down. In one of the classrooms at Yotsuru Girls’ Academy—a five-year, girls-only upper school situated in a corner of the imperial capital—the atmosphere was lively. On that day, as usual, lovely, vivacious young women dressed in a variety of colors were amusing themselves with gossip. “Did you hear? Did you hear about the new teacher who arrived today?!” “I heard! He came to replace Professor Tomita, who took a leave of absence the other day, is that right?” “Oh, if he’s replacing Professor Tomita, that must mean we’ll be his students, too, starting from next week’s lessons. I can’t wait!” The conversation that day was primarily devoted to the newly appointed language arts instructor. Asana Amamizu listened in on her friends’ conversation as she put her textbooks and workbooks in her bag—her hands concealed by black lace gloves. Asana was part of the conversation circle, but she was more of a passive participant than a contributor. “His name is Mr. Sakuya Shigure. He’s part of the Shigure family. They’ve been close with my family for ages.” “Wow!” “The Shigure family has quite a noble pedigree, don’t they? I heard that they were lords of their own domain a long time ago.” “Not only that, but Mr. Shigure is brilliant. He was working in the West until just recently. Plus, he’s young—only twenty-three! Hey, is it true what the rumors say? That he’s pale and handsome like an actor?” “Yes, it’s true.” The girls’ shrieks of joy were shrill but restrained. Yotsuru Girls’ Academy was a school that catered exclusively to the daughters of wealthy families. All these girls, at the right age to be in love with the idea of love, had a weakness for men with promising futures. So it was no surprise that those sorts of conversations would excite them. At times, the focus was on someone’s male relative, and at others, on a gentleman they had spotted at the train station. These talks were a daily occurrence. Well, that sort of talk doesn’t have much to do with me, though. With that in mind, Asana pasted a polite smile on her face and gave lukewarm responses like “Oh?” and “Hmm.” Even so— “What a surprise. Asana, are you interested in Mr. Shigure, too?” One of her classmates tried to draw Asana into the conversation. All she had done was give perfunctory responses, but suddenly, everybody was looking at her. “Um…” She was at a loss. Asana had no interest in marriage. No matter what, she would obey her family, and she was certain the man her father and brother chose for her would be perfectly ordinary. Therefore, she wasn’t the least bit interested in the new teacher. With nothing to add, Asana decided to redirect the topic with a smile. She gave no indication that she hadn’t really been paying attention to the conversation. “Yes, well, if we’re getting a new teacher, then that’s bound to have an effect on our lessons and examinations.” The girls around her frowned in disappointment at her noncommittal reply. Only one of them laughed in exasperation and lightly swatted Asana on the upper arm. She was one of Asana’s close friends and a central figure in their class, Kyouko Himori. The same girl who had mentioned her family’s association with the much-discussed Mr. Shigure earlier. “Heh-heh. As always, you’re so serious, Asana.” “Not at all. Isn’t everyone concerned about our lessons?” Asana tilted her head, and Kyouko giggled. “Sure we are,” she replied, “but not as much as you, with your outstanding grades.” “Oh?” “Everybody knows you’re number one, Asana.” “Kyouko, that’s enough teasing.” “‘Teasing’?” “You’re the one everybody adores, Kyouko, not me. I’m no match for you.” Kyouko was the belle of Yotsuru Girls’ Academy. She was a beautiful girl. Like a large, soft peony flower, she always stood out. On top of that, she excelled at everything she did, and her pedigree was impeccable. She made friends with everyone—even Asana, who didn’t join in their conversations—and was always at the center of any social circle. She was perfect in every way. Totally different from me. The only thing Asana had going for her was that she appeared to be a model student. Someone like Asana—who played the part of the model student and was sickly pale, reticent, and devoted only to her studies—was a far cry from a girl like Kyouko. In fact, their other friends nodded blatantly in agreement with Asana’s words. Kyouko saw them and gave Asana a troubled smile. “Asana, you’re exaggerating. I’m just doing the best I can with what I have.” When Kyouko said it, it didn’t sound sarcastic, which was amazing. Asana was honestly impressed. Kyouko’s long hair, which was tied back loosely, was straight and glossy. Her skin was an unblemished ivory white, and her small lips were the perfect pale shade of red. It was like the phrase in full bloom was coined just for her. Kyouko was dressed in a coral unlined kimono and the dark indigo andon-style undivided hakama bottoms required by the school. Her outfit was more or less the same as what the other girls had on, but for some reason, it looked much more sophisticated, refined, and beautiful on her. “Listen, everyone. After school today, why don’t we go to that new dessert parlor together?” They were all worked up, so one of their other classmates took the opportunity to propose this plan. “Great idea! That’s the place everyone says has the most delicious cream puffs, right?” “I’ve been wanting to try that place myself.” “Me too! Kyouko and Asana, won’t you come as well?” As all their friends talked over each other, Kyouko nodded with a broad smile. “Yes! Of course I’d love to go with you. You’ll join us today, right, Asana?” Asana shook her head. “I’m sorry. I can’t go.” The energetic, bubbly atmosphere suddenly deflated. Ah, I feel bad. It was as if she had poured cold water on their cheerful mood. Feeling uncomfortable, Asana finished packing her things and picked up her bag. The disappointed looks from her friends pierced her and made her heart ache. “Come on, Asana, there’s no way you can go?” Kyouko asked sadly, arching her finely shaped eyebrows. Asana apologized again. “I’m sorry.” She didn’t forget to add a remorseful smile. “…I’ve got business at home. But I apologize for being such poor company.” “In that case, how about going to the theater this weekend? I’m sure your family would allow it on a day we don’t have school?” Her friend was so thoughtful to invite her. Asana was grateful, but the other girl was asking for the impossible. “Regretfully, I must decline. You all have fun. I can’t wait to hear what you think about the place.” After saying “Goodbye” and “See you tomorrow,” Asana quickly made to flee the classroom. Behind her, she could hear her classmates whispering. “It didn’t work again.” “That always happens.” “I wish I had more chances to talk to her.” “The way she does that makes her seem so mysterious.” They didn’t understand. She wasn’t some enigmatic young lady. There wasn’t anything that interesting about her. She just wasn’t afforded much freedom. That was all. Asana straightened, stood tall, and headed for the door, her indigo hakama fluttering as she exited the room. “Goodbye.” “Yes, have a nice evening.” “Asana, goodbye.” “See you tomorrow.” Even as she walked down the hallway, other girls greeted her, and she responded cordially. When she did, they waved and bowed slightly. Asana changed from her indoor slippers into her outdoor shoes and stepped out of the school building. My brother said he has something to talk to me about today. She let out a long sigh when she remembered that. When she said she had business at home, she wasn’t lying. Her father was often away for work, leaving her much-older brother in charge at home. He had instructed her to hurry back for an important discussion, and that was an odd thing for him to do. She wasn’t sure what would happen if she didn’t obey. She stared off into the distance, at the sun that was beginning to sink. “Haaah…” “Big Sister Asana?” As Asana let out another sigh, someone suddenly called out to her from behind. “Big Sister! Big Sister Asana, are you going home now?” The voice grew closer and closer, until it came from right beside her. Asana put a smile on her face again and asked the owner of that voice, “Yes, and you, Tomono?” “Yes. How about that? What a coincidence.” The small girl’s sleeves fluttered like a cute little butterfly, and she peeked over at Asana. She had a youthful complexion and big, round eyes. Her brown hair was tied up in a looping Marguerite braid, which made her look even cuter. Asana had recently learned that the name of this affable young student was Tomono Yuhata. Tomono often approached Asana like this. She was pretending it was a coincidence, but she had probably timed her departure to line up with Asana’s. “Um, Big Sister Asana, would you please read this?” From her pocket, Tomono pulled out a letter encased in a pretty envelope. As she held out the letter and her cheeks flushed slightly, she looked as sweet and cute as a marshmallow. Asana took the letter and smiled at the younger girl. “Thank you.” “And…um, Big Sister? Did you have a chance to think about what I wrote in my last letter…?” Tomono asked bashfully, peeking up through her eyelashes. Asana felt another pang in her chest. In Tomono’s previous letter, the girl had expressed her deep love and respect for Asana, and at the end of it, she had written of her desire to become Asana’s “little sister” and to cultivate a more intimate relationship with her. “I’m sorry. I don’t intend to form that kind of bond with anyone.” “Oh, you don’t…? Actually, I kind of got that feeling. I’m happy just to be allowed to call you ‘Big Sister.’ Thank you for giving me an answer.” Just for a moment, Tomono’s expression looked terribly depressed, but she soon regained her cheerful smile. “Well then, what are your plans like for the rest of the day? If you don’t mind, maybe we could have tea together. Would it be too much of a nuisance for me to ask to come over to your house, Big Sister?” “Uh…” Asana had meant to leave right away, but Tomono was quite persistent. She shook her head frantically. Going out somewhere together would be one thing, but there was no way Asana could invite Tomono to her home. “That’s a little… I’m sorry. Today, there’s something I must hurry home for. S-see you another time.” “Ah…is that so? I’m sorry for keeping you.” Seeing the younger girl’s shoulders droop dejectedly made Asana feel even guiltier. If only…it wasn’t me she liked. It was such a waste that Tomono adored her so. She knew it would be fun to become friends with her, for them to go back and forth to each other’s houses and spend time together. Asana felt the same way about going out with her classmates. She wished she could go with them to cafés and parlors or go to the theater and share their thoughts. But there was no way she would be allowed to. Burdened with these weighty feelings, Asana said goodbye to Tomono. The girl’s lonely figure weighed heavily on Asana’s mind as she left. Asana walked through the school gates and boarded her family’s automobile, which was waiting there to pick her up. Once she’d settled in, the model-student guise she kept up all day fell away. I’m empty inside. Scenery started to stream past the window of the automobile as it pulled away. The first thing the car passed was a group of Asana’s school friends, who had left ahead of her. That looks like so much fun. Her classmates strolled down the street, chatting with each other, all wearing the same color hakama. Then she saw her own pale, sullen face reflected dimly in the window glass. Asana hung her head and sighed quietly. A few loose strands of hair gently fell out of her crown of braids. In the flourishing imperial capital, where Japanese and Western styles mingled, there was a hilly neighborhood where the residences of wealthy and distinguished families of noble lineage were concentrated. Even among these estates, one stood out—a vast mansion of wooden construction, with a magnificent gate. This was the house to which Asana returned—the Amamizu house. The Amamizu family had been in the business of medicine for several hundred years and had built up an immense fortune. Their business had begun as a small drugstore and changed with the times. Currently, the family operated a pharmaceutical wholesale business. Their wholesale warehouse purchased large quantities of all sorts of medications from around the country, and they made their money by reselling these medicines to drugstores and other shops. The Amamizu family dealt in a truly vast variety of medications, from utterly ordinary household medicine to rare drugs that even doctors almost never used. Perhaps that was why, although the family had no official rank at court, they had many clients in politics and major industries and deep connections thereto. Their signature product was a cure-all named “Mermaid’s Tears.” It was an extraordinary medicine, sold only by the Amamizu family, and the location and method of production were kept strictly secret. Of course, it was advertised as a cure-all, but it was hardly a panacea. Mermaid’s Tears, which, at first glance, appeared to be an unremarkable clear liquid, could be taken by mouth when one was feeling unwell or sprinkled over cuts and scrapes. Just ingesting a small amount could heal illness and injury and improve someone’s health overall. For its professed effects, it had gained a significant reputation. As a result, although it was expensive, Mermaid’s Tears had long been the Amamizu family’s top-selling product, and it was the foundation of their mountainous fortune. Most people were unaware of the truth behind it. “I’m back.” When Asana arrived home, she saw her mother, Kiriko, walking down the hallway toward her, wearing an unlined kimono with a subdued iris pattern. “Mother, I’m home.” But Asana’s greeting was completely ignored, as if she had said nothing at all. Her mother, who was beautiful and youthful for her age, passed by without so much as a glance, as if no one were there. Nothing, of course. Asana used her right hand to cover her left, which was concealed inside its lace glove, as her mother disappeared down the hallway. Asana sighed deeply. She pulled herself together, left her bag in her small room—it was only four and a half tatami mats in size—and asked the servant in the kitchen where she could find her brother. “…He is in the annex.” “I see. Thank you.” She amicably thanked the servant, who had not even looked in her direction, and headed toward the annex with heavy, sullen footsteps. Asana knocked on the old wooden door at the end of the connecting corridor. It sounded nice to call the room an annex. However, the Amamizu annex was nothing more than a small shed, no larger than a purification hut. Just a shack where they did things they couldn’t do in the main house, things they wanted to keep hidden. “Big Brother, it’s Asana.” “Come in.” “…Pardon the intrusion.” The moment she opened the door, the peculiar odor of the room assailed her nostrils, a rank combination of mildew and blood. The walls on both sides of the small, dim room were completely covered with shelves lined with glass jars. Her brother, Ukiharu Amamizu, was standing there, dressed in a casual kimono. He was writing something, using an open space on one of the shelves as a table. “Big Brother, um, you wanted to talk about something?” “Yeah. Your marriage has been decided.” Asana was taken aback and stiffened. “Huh?” Her brother’s voice didn’t have much emotion in it, and he had said it in an offhand way, so she almost hadn’t heard him. Marriage… She’d been prepared for this. Asana’s course in life had already been determined when the mark on her wrist had appeared. But she hadn’t expected it to happen so suddenly, and the pounding of her heart was distressingly loud. “Is that…so? And…will it be to Viscount Katsui, whom you mentioned before?” Viscount Katsui was a prominent millionaire in the capital, and he was rumored to be a sadist. He was in his forties and had been married before, but his wife had passed away several years earlier, and now he lived in his huge mansion alone. As a man of unusual tastes, he had hoped to exchange a large sum of money to get the Amamizu family’s “special daughter” for his second wife. He had offered a sum that amounted to four years of the Amamizu family’s earnings. Her father, Koutarou, and his successor, Ukiharu, had both approved and agreed that Asana was to be sold to the viscount immediately upon graduating from school. That said, they had not signed a contract yet. Her father and brother seemed dissatisfied with the amount of money being offered and wanted to try to negotiate for as much betrothal money as possible. Asana was sure that their bargaining was ongoing. And here I thought the formal marriage proposal was still a ways off… In response to Asana’s question, Ukiharu shook his head side to side. “No. It is not Viscount Katsui.” “Then…?” “At the last minute, we got an offer that was double what Viscount Katsui was going to pay. We considered the conditions and decided to accept it. And what’s more, the new man is willing to be adopted into our family.” “Adopted?” “If our family adopts your husband, we can keep using you for the business. And apparently, the man is proficient in multiple foreign languages, so we’ll be able to expand to overseas markets. We won’t find more favorable terms anywhere else. And we have many ways of keeping him silent, if the need arises.” Ukiharu’s explanation raced through her mind. She couldn’t believe he was talking about her. This must be what they mean by a “bolt from the blue.” Ukiharu was the heir to the Amamizu family fortune. This was already decided, so, really, the family didn’t need a son-in-law. And typically, most young men preferred not to be adopted into a family when they got married, so Asana had never imagined that something like this might happen. But when she gave it some more thought, it did seem like it would work out in the Amamizu family’s favor after all. From her family’s perspective, not only would this groom pay a large bride-price, but they could also keep Asana, their lucrative “special daughter,” close at hand. Am I to remain locked up in this house forever? Asana stared off into space. Ever since the mark had appeared on her wrist when she was young, Asana had been shunned and exploited by her father and brother. They said it was because she was special. Because she brought fortune to the Amamizu house. And now this new arrangement meant that Asana’s life of suffering would continue until she died. “If you need to blame someone, blame yourself for being born this way. But look, it’s a good thing, isn’t it? Because even a monster like you will be able to make yourself useful by helping your family. —Now, get to work.” Ukiharu closed his notebook and spoke to her dispassionately. No matter how she resented him, no matter how she grieved, there was nothing Asana could do. By now, she didn’t need him to tell her. She had already spent countless hours cursing her fate, grieving, tiring herself out, growing weary, and finally giving up. She didn’t have the slightest bit of hope left. Ah, if only I could vanish, body and all! She couldn’t help but wish it were so. Or alternatively, she wished she might become a nobler person, the kind of fool who would weep with happiness at being of use to her family, no matter how badly she was tormented and scorned. Asana rubbed her trembling hands together. They were still clad in the lace gloves that concealed her birthmark. You mustn’t cry, Asana Amamizu. It’s enough just to have your memory of that day. She didn’t wish for that boy to come save her. Not even if she was married off, no matter how roughly she was handled, and even if she was abused for being a monster or used like an object. She remembered the young man who had treated her wound that day in early summer. That kind person who had given her the gloves. More than anything else, it was her memory of him and his sincere concern that brought her comfort and made it possible for Asana to go on living. “Sit.” Ukiharu grabbed her arm roughly and forced her to sit in a chair that was dappled with dark stains. Asana quietly removed her gloves, trying to keep herself from looking at the sharp, glinting tip of the needle her brother was holding. That weekend, Asana’s father, Koutarou Amamizu, took her to meet her prospective groom. They were meeting at a luxurious traditional restaurant that was famous throughout the imperial capital. Her fiancé’s family was apparently of such honorable and aristocratic lineage that, compared to the Amamizus, they were like an unreachable flower atop an unscalable cliff. The matchmaker had evidently been very particular about the location for this meeting with such a prominent noble family. I haven’t heard anything about him yet, though. Asana stared vacantly at the tidy entryway into the restaurant. She hadn’t been given any details about the strange man who was willing to marry into the Amamizu family, aside from his family’s standing. She didn’t know his full name, his age, or his occupation. She wondered if he had a bad reputation, the kind that would make her want to run if she heard his name. Or maybe Koutarou and Ukiharu just couldn’t be bothered to inform her. But it was also tiresome for her to pointlessly agonize over the question. At any rate, no matter what kind of villain might appear, she knew she didn’t have the willpower to run away. As was often the case, Asana was unwell, and whenever she let her mind wander, her steps became unsteady. Her face was heavily powdered and smeared with rouge to disguise her pallid complexion. She was a little anxious about whether she would be able to endure a very long meeting. …It feels like this kimono is wearing me instead. This was their first meeting, so Asana was dressed in a showy, red, long-sleeved kimono with a white camellia pattern. She wore white lace gloves on both hands, and her hair, which was normally in a crown of braids, was done in a loose, flowing style. Her father was also wearing a top-quality kimono of pure silk, with hakama and a haori jacket. Asana and Koutarou, who had arrived earlier than even the matchmaker, were shown through to a tatami room that faced a beautifully arranged garden featuring eye-catching, vivid green pine trees. “Asana.” “Yes?” She sat down on the cushion beside her father, and when Koutarou said her name, Asana answered quietly. “You mustn’t make any mistakes here. Even at your best, you’re no beauty, so think of them as clients and make a good impression. We finally found a good customer after all.” Koutarou spoke bluntly and authoritatively. He usually had a domineering tone when he was speaking to Asana. “…I will take that to heart.” “We’ve put in the effort to raise you so far and even sent you to your girls’ academy, so it would be a shame if we didn’t make a little bit back on our investment.” “Yes, Father.” Asana held her left wrist with her right hand, both covered by white lace gloves that were different from the pair she usually wore. Asana was grateful that, unlike her great-aunt, who had been another “special” girl of the Amamizu family, she had been sent to school. However, that wasn’t because Koutarou was thinking of Asana’s best interests. Her father simply didn’t want to be known as the kind of stingy man who refused to send his daughter to school. In other words, he was only concerned with his own reputation. It was atrociously patronizing of him to say “sent you to your girls’ academy” and “make a little bit back on our investment.” But such treatment had been going on for so long that Asana couldn’t bring herself to push back against mild insults like those. No matter what she said, nothing would change. Compared to the many other indignities that had befallen Asana in her life, her father’s words meant little. Instead of speaking up, Asana frowned, closed her eyes, and opened them again. Before long, the matchmaker appeared. “Oh my goodness! I am so sorry. I’m running late.” The person who had arranged this marriage proposal was a hardy middle-aged man, who sat in front of them as he wiped sweat from his brow, his already thread-thin eyes narrowing even further as he smiled. His name was Hiroto. He was the younger brother of one Baron Hiroto, an aristocrat who did business with the Amamizu family, and he himself worked in an important position at a pharmaceutical company. Hiroto plopped himself down heavily onto his cushion and began to explain. “Actually, I’ve received a message,” he said. “It concerns the other family. It seems the elderly patriarch, with whom I am on familiar terms, has fallen ill and won’t be able to come today.” “Now that is concerning,” Asana’s father replied. “Then will the current head of the family be joining us?” “Well, you see, this day didn’t work for him, so…” “…So the groom will be the only person representing their family?” “I’m afraid that is the case. Oh, I feel terrible!” “No, no, it’s fine. As long as the man himself is here, I see no problem.” In a complete reversal of how he behaved toward Asana, Koutarou beamed and answered Hiroto affably. Her father was a skilled businessman, so he could be remarkably nimble and deft when necessary. He and her brother were businessmen through and through. They always thought of profits first. They were hospitable to guests and customers. On the other hand, their treatment of Asana was hardly befitting for a daughter or sibling. It was more like how they’d treat a beast they were raising in the house. In the end, these negotiations for Asana’s marriage were very much like discussions about breeding livestock. …Now that I’m thinking it over, there is no one more pitiable than the gentleman who has to marry me. If he were adopted into the family, unless he were a very strong man indeed, he would surely receive the same awful treatment as Asana. Moreover, Asana, who would become his wife, seemed normal on the surface but was actually much different from ordinary girls—she was a genuine monster. He had nothing to gain by paying a large sum of money and joining their family—nothing at all. Suddenly, they heard voices and footsteps in the corridor. Apparently, Asana’s potential husband had finally arrived. One of the hostesses escorted him in. The wooden boards in the hallway creaked as he approached. His large figure cast a shadow on the paper of the shoji door. Asana placed her hands on the tatami and bowed deeply. She stared intently at the mat below her. “I’m sorry I kept you waiting,” said the new arrival. He had a low, calm, and gentle voice. Asana had intended to keep her eyes downcast, but now chose to raise her head, enticed by that charming and inviting voice. Her heart nearly pounded out of her chest. What a… What a beautiful human being… The man who had entered the room was indescribably attractive. He had a sophisticated, elegant demeanor, and the word gorgeous was almost sufficient to describe his looks. He was slender and well proportioned, and he dressed stylishly in a tailored, dark gray three-piece suit, impressing her with charisma that was somehow both modest and showy. There wasn’t the slightest hint of roughness or boorishness. With his highly polished appearance, he looked every bit like a young prince from a fairy tale, graceful as a white swan. But more than anything else, Asana couldn’t take her eyes off his features and hairstyle. He looks just like… He had bright eyes, long eyelashes, and thin lips. Unlike most men who followed fashion trends, he wore his black hair long, arranged with an ornamental hairpin. “Smiling is best. They say happiness comes to those who smile.” That voice and those words were imprinted on Asana’s mind and had never faded since she heard them. This man was the spitting image of the youth from her past. He looked just like that boy, whose image had been seared into her eyes and could never be forgotten. Her pulse became unbelievably quick. She feared that her father and the matchmaker, and even the man himself, would be able to hear her heart pounding. She felt as hot as if all the blood in her body was boiling. With a composed demeanor, the young man made his way to the cushion across from Asana. As she watched him approach, Asana found it harder and harder to breathe. The design of the hairpin on the back of his head, which jingled lightly when he bowed, was… It’s just like his… No way. A coincidence like this was inconceivable. The young man from her precious, precious memory—the memory that had supported and encouraged Asana countless times, a memory she had revisited every day of her life—had appeared now in front of her after all this time as her prospective groom… It was unthinkable, like something out of a dream. Just for a moment, Asana forgot about her cursed fate. “Well then, seeing as how everyone is here—” Hiroto started talking, but not a word of it made it through to her. From the extreme shock of it all, everything he said went in one ear and out the other, and the only thing Asana could do was stare straight ahead. It couldn’t be. It couldn’t be, and yet… Incoherent thoughts kept spinning around in her head. When her father, Koutarou, tapped her on the shoulder, Asana finally came back to herself. “Asana.” “Y-yes?” “Mr. Shigure has invited you to take a walk before we eat. Answer him.” “Ah…y-yes. I apologize. I would be glad to accompany you.” Koutarou whispered into Asana’s ear after she replied in a panic. “You know what to do.” Asana nodded frantically. She couldn’t let her father suspect anything. She wondered if her face was forming a proper smile. She knew it was probably too late, but she made a conscious effort to regulate her breathing. “Shall we stroll through the garden for a little while?” When the man spoke to her, Asana realized she had indeed been staring at him too much. She started to feel embarrassed and averted her gaze. The young man stood and left the room, and Asana followed him as gracefully as possible. When it was time to step down into the garden off the engawa porch, she found herself staring intently at the hand he so casually offered her. He really is the boy from back then. Asana trailed after him, and they walked off into the garden, which was the deep green color of new leaves. The pond in the center of the garden housed handsome vermillion carp, and the moss-covered stones and lanterns beside the water created a serene atmosphere. Though it was well curated, the splendid garden did not spoil the raw beauty of nature. After they had taken several steps into the garden, the young man, who had been walking ahead of her, suddenly stopped and turned around to face her. “Once again, my name is Sakuya Shigure.” Asana looked up at the sound of his gentle voice. The young man—Sakuya Shigure—stared at her with unwavering black eyes. The tail end of the hair bound at his nape draped over his shoulder, and on his lips was a friendly smile. He was incredibly good-looking. Anyone who saw him, any man or woman of any age, would have agreed that he was the perfect image of youth. Asana also smiled, trying to make the best impression she could, and bowed her head very low as she replied with her own name. “My name is Asana Amamizu. It’s lovely to meet you.” As soon as she answered, something dawned on her, and she gasped in surprise. Mr. Sakuya Shigure, is it? That name was fresh in her mind. The twenty-three-year-old son of the Shigure family had just returned from overseas. Handsome and pale like a stage actor—this was the newly appointed language arts teacher at Asana’s academy. This was the man her friends had been gossiping about. The rumors hadn’t been an exaggeration. The man was more beautiful than any other Asana had ever met before. In fact, his beauty would put any actor to shame. But…could a coincidence like this really be possible? Here was the kind man from her memories, now her prospective groom and the new teacher at her school. Naturally, she found it hard to accept that all three people were one and the same, and she wasn’t satisfied calling it an accident or simply a strange twist of fate. “Um, I’ve heard rumors of you already…Professor Shigure.” When Asana shyly called him by that title, Sakuya nodded in understanding. “Ah, so you’re a student at Yotsuru Girls’ Academy, are you?” “Yes.” “I see… I suspect this job opportunity was my grandfather’s doing.” “Uh, I…” Sakuya smiled bitterly, and Asana simply tilted her head inquisitively. The breeze that blew gently past her carried with it the scent of green pines and the sound of water rippling in the pond. At the same time, a minty fragrance that Sakuya was probably wearing, as well as the faint smell of tobacco, wafted into her nostrils. Sakuya let his smile dim for a moment, while Asana was distracted. “As a matter of fact,” he continued, “my grandfather arranged this round of marriage talks on his own, before I even came back to Japan. My job as a teacher is also something my grandfather encouraged. I’m certain this was not a coincidence, but rather a carefully devised plot.” “Ah…is that what happened?” Sakuya was calm and collected, like an instructor should be, and his way of speaking was perfectly polite, but somehow, he seemed distant and cold. “I had heard about the marriage talks, but when he told me I was to meet someone so soon after returning home, I was surprised.” Asana looked at Sakuya again. The expression on his face was not unfriendly. It wasn’t exactly affectionate, but she didn’t pick up on any specific feelings like revulsion. His smile just seemed forced. From the way he was behaving, she gathered that he didn’t understand the significance of joining the Amamizu family. If the marriage proposal had been his grandfather’s initiative, and if he had been abroad until just recently, then it was even more possible that he knew nothing about them. And I don’t suppose he remembers me, either. Her memory from eight years prior was an important and precious thing to Asana, but Sakuya didn’t seem to recognize her. Eight years had passed since then. Asana had grown considerably, and her appearance had changed, so that was only natural. However, in that case— “Professor, if you knew nothing about this, then you must be quite disappointed. To be suddenly told you are engaged to someone like me.” Asana hadn’t really meant anything by it, but Sakuya frowned deeply. “Not at all, and you shouldn’t talk about yourself that way.” “Oh, no, I am exactly the girl you see before you. Unattractive and dull. For a gentleman as lovely as yourself, surely I, a mere student without the slightest redeeming feature, must seem like a consolation prize.” She gave him a carefully crafted, reserved smile. Insincere smiles were her specialty. She probably got that from her father. Will I really be married to my teacher, just like this? Asana wondered to herself, keeping the smile plastered on her face. Here was her precious benefactor, onto whom they would foist her, a nuisance dressed up in pretty clothes. He would be taken into the house of her devilish father and brother, forcing him to walk a path that would obviously lead to nothing but sorrow. She wasn’t sure if she could really do that to him. “Smiling is best. They say happiness comes to those who smile.” Even now, the words he had spoken were clearly etched into Asana’s mind. Because she had met him—because he had said those words—she had been able to endure the malice she had faced. Even when she was miserable, she never forgot to smile. She thought it kept her human. Surely it would be wrong to make him accept a poisoned pill. Surely that would amount to returning his kindness with cruelty. “Winning or losing a prize has nothing to do with this. I am in my grandfather’s debt. I have decided to accept this marriage proposal to satisfy him because he is in poor health. But if we’re going to go to the trouble of getting married, I’d like to try to make things go well. That’s what I think.” “…Even with me?” “Yes. With you.” Sakuya’s manner was unfailingly earnest, and the look in his eyes was completely serious. He was the picture of filial piety, wanting to meet his grandfather’s expectations. He was a deeply considerate person, the type who would tend to the injuries of a strange little girl. He was honest and good-natured. He probably did not want to marry Asana. “How do you feel about it?” he asked directly. “I…” Asana hesitated. Marrying Sakuya, her benefactor from long ago, would undoubtedly bring some happiness to her harsh and painful life. In truth, she felt like she was dreaming, so happy she could cry. But— Happiness for Asana meant unhappiness for Sakuya. She knew her own fate was set in stone. She could never allow this marriage to go through. However, she did not want him to notice anything was amiss, so she lied. “Yes… Given the chance, I also think I would like to become a good wife.” “Well, I’m glad to hear that.” Her chest ached with pangs of guilt as Sakuya’s eyes narrowed with his grin. If she turned him down here, face-to-face, it would embarrass the Shigure family, as well as Hiroto, who was acting as matchmaker. She didn’t want to make unnecessary waves. Why was I born into a family like this, in a body like this one? Asana was certain that if Sakuya knew her true nature, he would despise her. No matter how noble and kind a person he was, there was no way he would accept a monster for a wife. When she had that thought, her chest hurt so much, it was as if she was being torn to shreds. If only— If only she had been born into a different family, maybe she could have become Sakuya’s wife. Maybe she could have been a real prize for him. For a little while longer, they exchanged small talk as they looked around the garden. Then Asana and Sakuya returned to the dining room, where their places at the table had been set for lunch. The look Koutarou gave Asana when she returned was extremely fierce. I can’t do anything if he glares at me like that… Internally, she cursed her father, but of course, she didn’t let it show on her face. During the meal, Koutarou and Hiroto did most of the talking, chattering away lightheartedly, and though they occasionally brought the conversation around to Sakuya, that never particularly went anywhere. Asana silently moved her food from her plate to her mouth with her chopsticks. After everyone had finished their meal and had a cup of tea, the meeting ended. Following Hiroto, who left first, Sakuya departed, and finally, Asana and Koutarou stepped out of the fancy restaurant’s entryway. “Father?” Asana summoned her nerves and spoke to her father as he walked ahead of her over pure white gravel stones. Ever since the start of the meal, one single matter had occupied Asana’s mind—the thought of telling her father that she wanted to decline the marriage talks. However, it was inevitable that her request would displease Koutarou. She couldn’t stop her body from trembling in fear of him. But if I miss this chance, I don’t know when I might be able to discuss it with him. Koutarou was frequently away from home on business. Even when he was home, Asana was at school during the day, and they ate breakfast and dinner separately. It was common for him not to see Asana for days at a time. If she didn’t say what she had to say now, by the next time she saw her father, it might be too late. When Asana called out to him, Koutarou turned around with a puzzled expression. The mask of an affable businessman, which he had been wearing until just a moment earlier, had completely fallen away, and he had an extremely cold air about him. “What?” Asana sucked in a deep breath, fortifying herself, and spoke the words. “I wonder if I might be allowed to decline this marriage proposal?” “What did you say?” As expected, Koutarou’s eyes bulged, and he made a big show of sticking his cane into the gravel. “Did I mishear you? I thought you just said ‘decline.’” “…Yes. I am not inclined to marry Mr. Shi—” “Nonsense!” Before Asana could finish, Koutarou’s cane struck her cheek. Wham! With a heavy sound, the force of the blow sent Asana tumbling to the ground. “Ah, ow…” Her cheek burned, her head swayed, and the world spun. She was completely disoriented. The puff of breath she expelled was abnormally hot, but she didn’t have time to care about that. Her father grabbed her by the collar and forced her to stand. Her face, neck, and body hurt where she had hit the gravel. “Do you really think I would allow something like that? When I finally found you a good match after all this time?” “B-but I—” “Silence. A creature like you is not to meddle in decisions I have made!” “Ow… I’m v-very sorr—” “We could have sold you for an even higher price if you were beautiful.” He released his hold on her collar roughly, and she tumbled to the ground again. The only thing Asana could hear was Koutarou’s heavy breathing. His anger had been laid bare. Feverish heat filled her body, and she could feel nothing else. Just then, a piercing voice rang out. “What’s the meaning of this?!” It was Sakuya. She’d thought he had left a long time ago, but apparently, he had still been nearby. A hostess from the restaurant was also watching from the front door, and her concern was apparent. It was not surprising, given how noisy Koutarou had been when he raised his voice in anger. “Why would you do such a thing?” Sakuya immediately cradled the fallen Asana. His black eyes were filled with a complicated mix of emotions: a blend of astonishment, panic, and confusion. Sakuya checked Asana’s cheek, where she had been hit, and muttered, “How awful.” Asana couldn’t tell, but she suspected it must be a very bad injury. Her cheek was still throbbing with sharp pain. “Mr. Amamizu, what exactly is going on here? Raising your hand at your daughter like that… Are you insane?” “Come now, it was just a little discipline. It happens all the time.” “‘Discipline’? This?” Sakuya was staring at Koutarou as if he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Indeed, even Koutarou must have sensed that he had caused a scene, because he clicked his tongue. But even then, he didn’t let it disturb his composure and asserted, “…I’ll ask you not to interfere with the instructional methods of my household.” “Surely you must be joking. Something like this cannot possibly be ‘instructional’!” Asana realized that Sakuya, a teacher, was losing his temper, and this time, it was her turn to panic. If this turned into an argument, Sakuya’s social standing could suffer. That mustn’t happen. Asana staggered to her unsteady feet and stepped in between her father and Sakuya. “W-wait… Wait, please.” She looked up at Sakuya, who had deep furrows etched into his brow, straightened herself up, enduring the pain, and put on the best smile she could muster. “I’m all right. I’m sorry for worrying you.” Even if it was just for a second, the fact that Sakuya had gotten angry on her behalf made her unbearably happy, so happy that she could cry. That was all she needed—she was satisfied. “No, but…” “It’s fine. I’m terribly sorry for the disturbance. Father, let’s go home.” She was used to getting hit. No matter what, even if she was injured, she would heal right away, which was precisely why her father raised his hand against her so mercilessly. For Asana, such violence was routine. Actually, Koutarou didn’t seem ashamed of the violence itself. He was merely indignant that he was facing opposition from a young man like Sakuya. “Asana…,” her prospective husband mumbled. Asana politely bent at the waist, bowing to the bewildered Sakuya. “Thank you very much for your company today. I’m very glad I got to meet you. I’ll see you again at school. Of course, I won’t mention the marriage talks. It mustn’t be a hindrance to your work. Goodbye, Professor.” “We’re going,” her father said, grabbing her hand and dragging her away. On the way to their family car, before they got in, Koutarou did not shout at Asana, but he glared at her frigidly. “All right, then, Asana. If you want to stop the marriage talks with that man, tell me, what should I do with your body? If you explain to me how you can make a greater contribution to the family than this, I might reconsider.” “……” That was a lie. She was certain Koutarou would never change his mind. In the business world, the Amamizu family actually had an extremely poor reputation. Although many people positioned themselves close to the thriving family, it was a different story when it came to talks of relation by marriage. Asana had received few proposals, even as the daughter of a merchant family that had so many clients in politics and industry. In that context, the marriage proposal from Sakuya was a very fortunate offer. Neither Kotarou nor Ukiharu was likely to relinquish it. But perhaps, by some chance, I can manage to send the marriage talks back to square one, and then— She wanted to do something to keep Sakuya from getting involved with the Amamizu family. With that one thought in mind, Asana nodded in response to her father’s words. “Okay… That’s no problem. Father, please reconsider your decision.” If it was to save Sakuya, to save her benefactor, she didn’t mind suffering. At any rate, she couldn’t die, so in that case, she could at least do something useful for him. She could return the favor, even if only in a minor way. Koutarou snorted at Asana’s reply. Sakuya just stood there, watching the girl who would be his fiancée and her father leave. To put it another way, he was completely dumbfounded. His proposed marriage partner, who he had met for the first time that day, Asana Amamizu, wasn’t an eye-catchingly beautiful or brilliant girl—in fact, there didn’t seem to be anything special about her at all. But what happened today… He couldn’t get the image of Asana out of his head, the way she had acted with concern for him, despite facing such wretched treatment from her father right there on the street. She hadn’t acted like she had taken a beating, and she hadn’t gone crying to Sakuya, either. She had simply stood back up in a dignified way and had even managed to smile and thank him. If she was able to smile like that, regardless of the circumstances…then surely that showed she had extraordinary willpower. At the conclusion of their first meeting, Sakuya had been unable to take his eyes off her slender, forlorn figure. One night several days earlier— After wrapping up a staff meeting at Yotsuru Girls’ Academy, Sakuya headed for a certain small bar that had set up shop in a corner of the prosperous downtown area of the imperial capital. Recently in the capital, several discreet bars and cafés had been flourishing. They had the ambience of secret hideaways, places where men could exchange information and engage in idle chatter. Sakuya went to a bar in a two-story brick building; the first floor was a space solely for enjoying a drink, and the second floor was set up with games such as billiards and mahjong. The place was crowded with men on their way home from work. It was the second time Sakuya had met up with Shinsuke Honomi since returning from abroad. The two men sat opposite one another at a mahogany table on the first floor, where the air was filled with the smell of tobacco smoke, and ordered their drinks. Before long, glasses filled with a creamy Western liquor were delivered to each of them. “Sorry for calling you out to a place like this.” “I really don’t mind.” Shinsuke, dressed in a neatly ironed three-piece suit, gave his typical, overly serious apologies, and Sakuya shook his head, barely managing to suppress laughter. “I guess we have a lot to talk about.” “If it wasn’t so late, we could have gone to get red bean paste buns at that anpan place with the stern shopkeeper, though.” “The boss over there closes up shop in the early evening, so we’re out of luck.” Talking about a shop they both frequented helped break the ice a bit. However, Shinsuke’s expression stiffened again. “Sorry to get right into it, but there’s something I want to say to you.” “What?” “I’m telling you this for your own good. Put a stop to the marriage talks with the Amamizus.” Shinsuke was not a particularly soft-spoken fellow, but at that moment, his tone was even firmer than usual and extremely stiff. “What’s this all of a sudden? Anyway, it’s pretty much a done deal by now.” “Of course it is. Why, of all families, did it have to be the Amamizus? Marrying into that house—and moreover, agreeing to be adopted into the family—makes me doubt your sanity.” The way his friend was speaking acutely conveyed his dislike, verging on disgust, of the Amamizu family. Shinsuke had always been solemn, and he’d never had a particularly tolerant disposition. On the outside, he looked well put together, but his fastidiousness and inflexibility were often apparent. Nevertheless, Sakuya was comfortable being with Shinsuke, who didn’t bother with rumors or nonsense. The two of them had been friends for ten years, ever since middle school. Therefore, Sakuya thought that maybe this was his friend’s fussiness showing through yet again. “There are many unflattering rumors about the Amamizu family. They’ve made a lot of money in the pharmaceutical business, but people say that, behind the scenes, they manufacture poisons, that they’ve wiped out their competition, and that they spread illnesses to sell medication. And because of that, people have died. Even if things look good for them now, suppose that, in the future, something happens and they get arrested—if you get adopted into the family, you’ll get dragged into it, too.” Poison and death. Faced with these unsettling words, Sakuya closed his eyes. He pulled a cigarette out of his pocket and held it in his mouth, then lit a match, and after one puff, he replied. “Well…but are you sure? As pharmacists, it wouldn’t be unusual for them to handle substances that can be poisonous. Whether something is medicine or poison all comes down to how it’s used after all. And the other stuff is all just gossip, surely?” “Wrong. Do you happen to know anything about the poison called ‘Mermaid’s Blood’?” Shinsuke had lowered his voice. Though the word mermaid gave him pause, Sakuya shook his head. “No.” “…There is a rumor that travels in small circles, only among those in the know. Apparently, there is a mysterious poison that goes by that name. No one knows what form it takes, but they say it’s a fiendish poison that leaves no trace, and if even a tiny amount gets into the body, it instantly causes the victim’s death.” “Questionable at best. How could there be a poison so very convenient for murderers?” “Never mind, just listen. There are many people who link that Mermaid’s Blood poison to the Mermaid’s Tears that the Amamizu family sells. That’s among people who know what’s what, okay? It’s not just because they share the word mermaid, but because it’s something the family could pull off.” The Amamizu family was the only pharmaceutical company that sold the medication known as Mermaid’s Tears, and no one knew how it was manufactured. According to Shinsuke, that meant it was suspicious. The rumors just wouldn’t die out. Medication was something that went into the body. If the ingredients and the recipe for a certain medication were a secret, then, naturally, many people would be suspicious of it. Shinsuke continued, “Apparently, the Amamizu family actually made a backroom deal with some bigwigs somewhere to get them to overlook the fact that they’re selling Mermaid’s Tears without disclosing any information about it. I’m almost certain that isn’t a lie.” “In which case, wouldn’t that mean they also secretly got permission to sell the Mermaid’s Blood poison in the same way?” Sakuya let out a big sigh and leaned back in his chair. If Shinsuke—who came from a good family, had connections to all sorts of people, and had influence with the newspapers and the police—was saying so, then it was highly credible information. If something should happen to turn the situation on its head and result in the Amamizu family being charged for its crimes, Sakuya could get caught up in it, too, after marrying into the household. However, this was ground Sakuya couldn’t yield. “Even if that is the case…it’s my grandfather’s wish. I can’t refuse.” Sakuya put duty and obligation above everything else. He couldn’t refuse, and didn’t want to refuse, a request from Hamahiko Shigure. His grandfather had secretly supported Sakuya’s mother, the mistress of the head of the Shigure family, and Sakuya, her son. Besides, this was his grandfather, who had displayed his shrewd mind as both the head of an aristocratic family and a businessman. There was no way he hadn’t already considered any bad reputation the Amamizu family might have had. There could be no doubt that he had sent Sakuya forward into these marriage negotiations for some reason— Sakuya’s thoughts made it that far before he suddenly remembered something. A girl with mermaid’s blood… Didn’t he say something like that? Sakuya’s grandfather, who was not in good health, had told him there was a marriage proposal he wanted him to accept, no matter what. Sakuya had learned about it as soon as his return to Japan was finalized. He had gone to see his grandfather as soon as he got home, and when he brought up his proposed marriage partner, his grandfather had said, his eyes full of tears, “My dearest wish will be realized during my lifetime. Nothing else could make me as happy… Sakuya, the daughter of the Amamizu family, is the girl with mermaid’s blood, the one I’ve been chasing for so long. And it is your destiny to be wedded to her.” But Sakuya’s grandfather had been talking about his “dearest wish” and “destiny” for the last eight years, and Sakuya had long since grown tired of hearing about them, so he hadn’t particularly paid it any mind. So there was the girl with mermaid’s blood, the poison called Mermaid’s Blood, and the panacea named Mermaid’s Tears. And the Amamizu family seemed to connect them all. Shinsuke sighed as Sakuya pressed his shrinking cigarette down into the ashtray, deep in thought. “Sakuya. It’s fine to have a strong sense of duty, but it’ll come to nothing if you destroy yourself over it. Anyway, rethink your marriage talks with the Amamizus. I’m only saying this much because it’s your life on the line.” His friend’s bloodcurdling warning made Sakuya waver. There wasn’t much of the strong Western liquor left in the glass in his hand. However, Sakuya didn’t feel drunk at all. Actually, he had never been properly drunk before. No matter how strong the liquor he drank was, it was no different from drinking water. Indeed, it was quite clear to him that this friend of his had been worrying about him for the past eight years, ever since the circumstances surrounding Sakuya had completely changed. “…I accept your concern with gratitude. And I’ll take care not to get dragged into anything troublesome. But I still can’t refuse the proposal.” “Why?” “When I decided to accept this marriage proposal, my grandfather was so happy, his eyes filled with tears. It was the first time I’d ever seen him cry. I just feel certain that betraying the expectations of my benefactor after I’ve seen him like that would be a grave sin.” “There’s talk that she’s unbelievably ugly, the daughter of the Amamizu house.” “Oh? Huh.” For Sakuya, the girl’s outward appearance wasn’t a reason to reverse his decision. He gave an apathetic reply, which made Shinsuke raise his voice. “Don’t ‘huh’ me. You’re playing dumb. Did you leave your mind in another country? The way you’re acting now, it seems like you can’t be bothered to think for yourself, and you’re just going to do exactly as your grandfather says. You’re the one who’ll suffer for it.” “Is it really that strange to want to repay at least some of the debt I owe my grandfather?” “If you want to pay him back, do it some other way. Don’t do something that will forfeit your whole life.” There was no way the two of them were going to reach an agreement that day. Sakuya did think Shinsuke was raising a valid concern, but on the other hand, he also didn’t think his position was wrong, either. After that, Sakuya and Shinsuke parted ways awkwardly. So that girl is the one with mermaid’s blood…? When he first met Asana Amamizu face-to-face, Sakuya saw that she was not “ugly” as Shinsuke had said, but she wasn’t exactly beautiful, either. She had such a sickly, pale complexion that even layers of face powder and rouge couldn’t hide it. She had a frail build, and none of the vitality befitting a young woman was evident in the bits of skin that peeked out of her long-sleeved kimono or in her neatly arranged hair. She looked like a corpse someone had worked very hard to dress up in glamorous attire. However, while he hadn’t formed a very good impression of her father, Koutarou Amamizu, his impression of Asana, the daughter herself, had been reversed at the very last minute. Besides— He’d been thinking the whole time about his grandfather’s words, “…It is your destiny to be wedded to the girl with mermaid’s blood,” and Shinsuke’s mention of the connection between the Amamizus and mermaids. If by some chance, Asana, the girl with mermaid’s blood, had something to do with the “destiny” that Sakuya shouldered, then he might come to understand something about himself, too. If that happened, there might also be a way to get back to how he once was…or maybe… Sakuya closed his eyes briefly, then opened them again and walked out.
Chapter 2
51 min read