Chapter 44 Summary

Kaoru has always been a very proper young man, but he does not like the reputation that it has given him. In fact, people call him Lord Proper because of his sober mien and Kaoru is eager to shed the title. Kaoru decides that it is time to show Tamakazura another side of his character, and he heads to her mansion to prove that he is more than just a stern face.

Unfortunately, arriving at the mansion, Kaoru sees that another young gentleman has preceded him in his errand. It is Yugiri's son, a lieutenant, who is also in love with the oldest daughter of Tamakazura. Since neither man can do anything about the other's presence, they both politely accept an invitation to join the ladies.

As some of the women at the mansion begin playing kotos and flutes, Tamakazura falls into tears...