To Asako Emiko

[Yasuki Ryoichi]

<A letter in careful but unexceptional script, tied with good twine. A pressed leaf from a beech tree is enclosed, partly green and partly yellow as if caught between seasons.>

To the learned Lady Asako Emiko of House Sasaki,

I am called Yasuki Ryoichi, and I am reliably informed that you will be attending court this season. I am hoping that we may be able to establish cordial relations between our families and our clans. I understand that your house’s lands are also near the sea, and so we surely must have things in common and thus reasons to cooperate. If you feel likewise, perhaps we may have opportunities to become better acquainted at court.

Sincere regards,
Yasuki Ryoichi of House Shiozaki

[Asako Emiko]

The calligraphy of the reply is exceptional, with each stroke perfectly designed to be gentle on the eye and to lead one languidly across the page. The paper is good Isawa make, though more durable than one might expect. Of course, it's had quite the journey.

Yasuki-san,

Your letter was received just as the first snows began to fall around the pines north of Morning Glory Castle. Of course, here on the eastern coast, we have had the winds pick up, but no sign of snow. That tells me there is still time to sow the seeds that lie deep in the earth and burst forth fresh with spring, and so your kind gesture is well-received and reciprocated. Let us meet, if we may, this winter. You can tell me all about the cordial relations you envision. I shall bring my tea set.

Yours Sincerely,
Asako Emiko of House Sasaki