Chapter 1 Summary

As soon as the accompanist kisses the opera singer, the lights go out in the performance. All around the stage is an international audience that has come together in a South American country to hear Roxane Coss sing for Mr. Katsumi Hosokawa's birthday. Yet, when the lights go out, no one seems surprised or worried and instead believes that it is all a part of the performance.

Mr. Hosokawa is a successful businessman who has no intention of investing in the South American country, although that is the reason why he is being catered to. He has attended the birthday party only because he is an avid fan of opera and a faithful admirer of Roxane Coss. Her voice is unparalleled for him and he has flown around the world to hear her sing. He is at the birthday party with only his...