Chiyo tucks Natsu into bed atop a plush futon, between Aki and another girl named Kame who wears her hair in braids. All three are fast asleep.

“Miss Katsura.”

Chiyo turns; Lady Yurei stands against the wall, wobbly but holding her ground. She motions with her index finger.

“Let’s chat.”

Chiyo follows Lady Yurei into the office, shutting the shoji behind them. Cold fingers slice through the cloth on her belly; Chiyo jumps at the unexpected temperature.

“As I thought. You’re not with child. Natsu may stay, of course, but I cannot afford to feed one who doesn’t need it.”