Chapter 1 - Part 1: The Fateful Encounter
In the ancient yet vibrant streets of Kyoto, where cherry blossoms danced in the spring breeze and the aroma of incense lingered in the air, Shouko hurried along the bustling lanes. Her short black hair peeked from the confines of an old, hand-me-down kimono, the fabric frayed at the edges, telling the tale of years gone by.
She moved gracefully, albeit inconspicuously, through the lively marketplace, deftly avoiding the hurried steps of the city's denizens. Shouko's dark eyes held a quiet determination as she navigated the labyrinth of stalls, her hands clasping a small basket filled with provisions for her family.
Despite being a commoner, there was an ethereal quality about Shouko that often drew lingering glances from passersby. Her beauty, though not a rarity in Japan's capital, possessed a certain radiance that captivated those who took a moment to truly observe.
One fateful day, a top servant from the esteemed Kaokuri clan arrived at Shouko's modest home. Shouko's parents, faces etched with a mixture of awe and trepidation, entertained the unexpected guest.
"We come on behalf of the Kaokuri household," the servant announced, her tone carrying an air of authority. "We wish to purchase your daughter, Shouko, to serve in our household."
Shouko's heart sank at the revelation. The prospect of leaving her family and becoming a servant was a daunting, unwelcome fate. Yet, the weight of the Kaokuri name loomed over her, an undeniable symbol of prestige and power.
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"I-I don't want to leave," Shouko whispered, her voice barely audible.
Her parents exchanged pained glances, understanding their daughter's distress but unable to challenge the request of such a prestigious clan. Reluctantly, they agreed, knowing the repercussions of defying the wishes of the Kaokuri.
Shouko's world crumbled as she was whisked away from the familiarity of her home, her heart heavy with the weight of an uncertain future. The realisation of being bought and the impending servitude filled her with a deep sense of desolation, a feeling of being a possession rather than a person.
Days turned into weeks as Shouko awaited her destiny, her mind clouded with thoughts of the life that lay ahead. She would soon serve the illustrious Kaokuri household, a prospect that brought her no joy, only a profound sense of resignation.
Chapter 1 - Part 2: Day One
Shouko's journey to the grand estate of the Kaokuri clan was a quiet one, her heart heavy with sorrow and uncertainty. As she approached the ornate gates, guarded by imposing stone lions, she felt a deep pang of longing for the simple life she once knew.
The servant accompanying her guided Shouko through the labyrinthine corridors until they reached a spacious room adorned with silken tapestries and intricate designs. There, standing in serene elegance, was Hana Kaokuri, the heiress to the clan.
"Kaokuri-sama," the servant announced with a bow, "this is Shouko, the one who will serve you."
Shouko bowed deeply, her eyes briefly meeting Hana's before she respectfully lowered her gaze. The heaviness in her heart was palpable, the weight of her new reality settling upon her like an oppressive cloak.
Hana observed the newcomer silently, her demeanour composed and unreadable. Though captivated by Shouko's ethereal beauty, she withheld any acknowledgment of it, maintaining an air of stern formality.
"Welcome, Shouko," Hana said, her tone measured. "Your duties begin immediately. Attend to the tasks assigned to you by the staff."
Shouko nodded quietly, suppressing the emotions swirling within her. The servant hurriedly instructed her on the various chores she was to undertake, leaving Shouko feeling overwhelmed and adrift in her new environment.