A Letter to Agasha Yuna

[Miya Hachi]

On the outside of the letter, in a clearly practiced if somewhat terse hand on fine paper, the following:

I pass this along not in my official capacities, but as a husband who appreciates his wife and is greatly concerned that she remain happy. You will remember this, as you remember other things, I think. -Miya Hachi

On the inside, in a hand less terse and more exuberant:

My dear Yuna,

I was delighted when my husband let me know that your name was among the delegates your Clan is sending to Kyuden Ikoma this winter. Your sensei must be proud for so many of her students to be in attendance this year; there do seem to be a lot of you!

I, unfortunately, won't be able to be in attendance. My lord husband will be, of course, and that means that I must remain behind to manage affairs in his absence. Kyuden Miya is not so far away from Kyuden Ikoma, of course, but there are always matters that require direct oversight. I'm sure you know how that kind of thing goes.

It's a good thing to do, of course. We get milder winter on our side of the Spine of the World, and watching the horses in the snow is fun. But it does isolate a body--and that means all of the latest trends pass by. I'll count on you to let me know what the important people are wearing; I get the news from my dear husband, of course, but your eye for the sartorial arts...I'll look forward to seeing what you can tell me.

And a word, since I know this is your first time: there will be many who want to plant seeds, but be careful that they don't leave the fields covered in weeds.

Kaiya

[Agasha Yuna]

A return letter is sent on elegant stationery. The calligraphy is precise and feminine. A sprig of iris is included, as well as a small sample of a beautiful green silk with golden embroidery.

Kasaiya-sama,

I am sorry I will not have the chance to see you at Kyuden Ikoma, but I will definitely send frequent accounts of exactly what everyone is wearing so you will not miss a thing.

It is you who will be missed, not only by me, but by all who enjoy (and follow!) your impeccable fashion.

So far, I can only give report of my own preparation. Uncle Toma-sama supplied me with the gold headdress, that I know you have already seen and, indeed, inspired, as his patron and muse. I am so grateful for the gift of it! It gives me confidence to imagine myself wearing it, as I prepare to best represent my family, clan, and house, and all that will encourage peace and prosperity.

The fabric cutting is from the kimono I will be wearing for the first day of court. Precisely the green that you recommended for the embroidered flowers to bloom upon.

I will be careful and heed your advice and seek the seeds of conversation that will bear lasting fruit and flower.

Enjoy the horses and snow! I can't wait to see what those lovely vistas inspire in what you will be wearing when I see you next.

Sincerely,

Agasha Yuna