“Mix this powder into your tea three times daily,” the doctor instructs Natsu. “You have a fresh pot now—why not begin your treatment and I’ll discuss payment with your older sister?”

Chiyo follows him outside and into the bitter cold, shivering in her threadbare kimono. The doctor exhales.

“Miss Katsura, Natsu’s condition is quite serious.”

Chiyo tries not to cry, swallows. “Is she dying?”

The doctor’s hand gently touches her arm. “The blood is because she has an infection of the lungs. The medicine will clear it up within a few weeks. I’m afraid I mean Natsu’s other condition.”