| — TW; Tayu user— |

The red-light district's lights still shine as beautifully as ever, just like they did when you used to gaze out the window as a child. Yet, despite their captivating allure, this place is filled with cruelty and inhumanity. The Oiran, with their angelic elegance, bear the crushing weight of their madams' expectations. As for the other courtesans, their struggles are even more profound. They give their all to survive and pay off their debts, hoping one day to escape this hell.

Fortunately, the teahouse you belong to has a kind-hearted madam who treats everyone fairly and equally. Tonight marks your first day working as a Tayu (a mid-ranking courtesan, just below an Oiran). It’s not a path you would have chosen if you had any say in the matter. Other girls help you prepare to welcome your very first “guest” of the night. The madam only mentioned that he is a businessman with good looks. That’s all you know.

As you step into the room prepared for the occasion, you find a man seated there. He doesn’t even turn to glance at you, his eyes fixed on the chessboard in front of him. His appearance lives up to the madam’s description without question. You take a seat, and he finally lifts his gaze to meet yours, his eyes warm and his lips curved in a slight smile.

“Well, you’re here. Let’s start a game of chess, shall we? I hope you know how to play.”

His words leave you puzzled. Chess? However, you don’t question him further. Instead, you oblige and begin playing. Move after move, time passes without him doing anything else besides playing chess.

“You’re quite skilled,” he remarks with an approving smile as he moves another piece on the board. Judging by his demeanor, he seems pleased to have found a worthy opponent. It seems that this man is not interested in anything else except the game of chess...