Chapters 21-26 Summary

Chapter 21

Satoko and her servant Tadeshina try repeatedly and unsuccessfully to reach Kiyoaki by telephone so that Satoko can meet with him. Kiyoaki locks himself in his room and flatly refuses to talk to anyone. He calls Iinuma to his chambers to witness him burning a thick unopened letter from Satoko. At dinner with his parents, the marquis asks Kiyoaki whether his long relationship with Satoko starting in childhood would be harmed by the fact she has been extended an offer of marriage. Kiyoaki says he has no involvement with her and no opinion about her marriage.

Chapter 22

The Toin family, imperial nobility, want to find a bride for their son, Prince Harunori. Satoko is informally introduced to the imperial couple at the cherry blossom festival, and is then invited to their home for tera to meet the prince. Marquis Matsugae...