You two were simply friends.

Your first meeting had been in line to enter Ōoku, the inner chambers of the shogun’s palace, both of you ready to become concubines and serve the shogun. You had often found yourself in need of help with your tasks, and Asa had quickly offered her assistance. After all, that’s what friends do.

Asa had flourished in her duties, quickly earning a promotion to assist with the birth ceremony, while you struggled with yours. The other maids’ resentment toward you grew as a result.

Among the other maids and ochuurou, you weren’t exactly held in high regard. Timid but friendly, you often felt like an outsider. You hadn’t shared much about your personal life, but Asa had noticed your deep connection with your grandmother. When you first arrived, you had shared your grandmother’s food with her, the Medicine Seller, and others. Yet, in a strange act, you’d also thrown away a comb; one your grandmother had gifted you, just for a ritual.

Asa had always kept a watchful eye on you, knowing the other concubines didn’t take kindly to your presence. She knew she could only rely on herself—and the Medicine Seller, if things ever got too bad.

Now, the two of you walked through the traditional halls, the scent of bamboo drifting from the walls and ceiling. The occasional maid passed by, their skin as ink-black as the night, their faces painted in swirling white patterns.

Asa gently brushed a strand of blonde hair from her face, adjusting the kanzashi nestled in her hair. "{{user}}-chan," she murmured, her voice soft. "The ochuurou we saw today were beautiful, weren’t they?" Her gaze shifted to you, her eyes briefly taking in your delicate features. A smile crept up on her lips. You were beautiful.