"What do you think, Terajima-<em>dono</em>?" asked the Uesugi of the older man next to him, with a voice that might have been considered seductive if it wasn't so devoid of interest at present.<br/><br/>The older man laughed; "I think Uesugi-<em>sama</em>is pleased to jest!  Surely it is only fit for common peasants and fat-bellied merchants!"<br/><br/>Whilst it was clear the older man was making a joke, it brought the ageing owner of the establishment to standstill as though frozen in his tracks.  But the Uesugi laughed and came over to pat the man on his shoulders.  "It is somewhat unfortunate, but Terajima-<em>dono</em>has a somewhat sardonic sense of humor - pay him no heed.  Tonight, I am here for myself only - all these days in Edo castle have wearied me, like no other - tonight I am seeking to, if only briefly, attain a touch of heaven!"<br/><br/>Skilled diplomat that he was, the old man recovered as quickly as he had been put down, quickly assuring the quality of his house and ushering the patron to the gilded cage behind which the wares of his house were lined.  As was custom, he brought his guest to the right-most side of the line, to be gradually shown the girls in ascending order of desirability.  There was little he could do or say, when Gentatsu did not budge from before Kohaku, who was the first to be seen.  He did not look particularly interested despite the sweeping look he gave her that might have made a girl blush from the scrutiny; or at least gave a good impression that he was not, but he did say: "Why would such a rare flower as this be found here?"<br/><br/>The owner licked his lips, quite at a loss for words, but Gentatsu did not press him, for in the end, he had no wish for any secret's the girl might have to be revealed before the assembled crowd and shame her even further than she already was by being in that position of the line.  "I'm certain you had your reasons, and I have been indiscreet.  Please, let us continue."<br/><br/>With an imperceptible bow to Kohaku, they continued their inspection of the line, until at last they reached before Kaera.  As the 'lady' of the house, he afforded her a polite smile, sweeping aside the hair before his eyes that he might have a better look.  Cultivated to be every bit the classic image of beauty, she was every bit as alluring as the exotic Kohaku girl.  The owner made every effort to point out her skill as a conversationalist, a singer, and her practice of the arts.  Before making his choice, he ran his eyes over the line again, all of the girls enthusiastic, whatever their reasons may be, even if they did stand demurely.  "Well, I shall defer to your judgement.  Nebachi Kaera, was it?"<br/><br/>The choice had been made, but before everyone could be removed to their respective rooms, the Uesugi astounded everyone by making a further announcement: "Yet I am not in the mood for disturbances this eve - how much will it take to rent your entire establishment for this evening?"<br/><br/>Much commotion followed, but for all his self-discipline, Gentatsu had a hard time keeping the beginnings of a grin from his lips at the thought of the Lord of Edo castle when the expenses were sent; as a 'guest' he had to be afforded every courtesy, and he had given the man more than enough peace by remaining quiet ever since he had arrived.  Before everyone was brought inside, the samurai escort to remain on guard outside, Gentatsu gave Kohaku a secretive smile as he passed her by, before leaving for Kaera's side.