“One hour after you left Tokyo, Sado-ko was humiliated, her betrothal being publicly annulled. It made a noisy story for a space.”
“And next what happened?”
“Next, I too presented myself before his Majesty, who, being uncle as well as father, was ready to condone offence unfitted for a future Empress. Consequently, when I begged him to grant me your hand in marriage, he graciously consented.”
“And you followed me at once?”
“At once.”
When Komatzu had left her, Masago stood for some time looking from the casement of the palace.
“To think,” she murmured, “of the folly I was near to committing but last night. The court is cold and heartless, yet it is my true, true home, for there is the only one on earth who loves me.” She sighed. “I am an outcast from my childhood’s home—even my stupid mother denies me. It was fitting!”
The voice of the waiting-woman, Natsu-no, broke upon her meditations.
“Exalted princess!” She turned slowly toward the woman. At her haggard aspect she was touched.
“What is it, Natsu-no?” she asked with compassion.