Acts Eight and Nine Summary

After learning that Rikiya has refused his engagement presents, Konami and mother Tonase decide to travel to Yamashina to discover what the matter could be. Konami worries that Rikiya has had a change of heart. As they walk overland, through rain and hail, mother tries to allay the fears of daughter. This ends a very short Act Eight.

It is early morning. Yuranosuke is home, but still playing the drunken libertine. His wife, Oishi, is caring and attentive. Yuranosuke feigns sleep until Oishi sends the servants away, then Yuranosuke and son Rikiya discuss the symbolism of the father's earlier romp in the snow. Yuranosuke explains that their league, like snow, is best preserved in shadow.

Tonase and Konami arrive at Yuranosuke's estate. They are politely, but aloofly received by Oishi. Tonase, presenting her husband's swords to indicate...