In their shared futon, Natsu’s voice is like a rocky mountainside. “What did he say?”

Chiyo inhales. Their own mother gave birth at fourteen, but she was married, and times have changed. With the death of the Edo era came a new wave of traditions, a new outlook on women and their role in the world. Chiyo wants Natsu to have every advantage, but the very thought of moving to a demon-infested pit like Kyoto boils Chiyo’s blood. But Natsu is pregnant. Unmarried. Their village will have no kindness for them. Not a shred.

Chiyo smiles. “Pack up. We’re leaving.”