Although Master Aonoki had set aside his airs around Suzuki Sonoko just now, his lingering authority remained before his disciples. When his tone sank, President Yamazaki and the Antique Dealer could only acknowledge him and obediently withdraw, despite wanting to ask more.
Master Aonoki lowered the partition, clicked the door shut, and locked himself back inside the tea room.
The group crossed the long wooden bridge from the center of the lake back to shore, intending to wait in the reception room. Then the Antique Dealer looked up and suddenly noticed something. "Mrs. Yamazaki, where are you going?"
Yamazaki Yumi smiled. "I have something to take care of. I'll be right back."
Without waiting for anyone to question her, she shut the door behind her and hurried away.
The Antique Dealer muttered, "Master's tea gathering is about to begin. What's gotten into her these past few days? She's being so willful. She was never like this before."
The maid was also somewhat puzzled. In theory, she should have gone over to show the way, but Mrs. Yamazaki had left quickly and clearly did not want anyone following her. So she brought up another matter instead. "Mr. Yagura, your bath has been prepared. You may go whenever you wish."
The slightly plump Antique Dealer wiped away the sweat he had accumulated along the way and smiled. "Thank you for your trouble."
While the group returned to the reception room and chatted.
Elsewhere.
Curacao found a colleague, made up a pile of excuses, and successfully obtained a document. She was preparing to deliver it to the Tea Ceremony Master in person.
After parking nearby, she stood by the courtyard wall and looked at the enormous residence, muttering inwardly, *Come to think of it, Rum only told me to keep watch at