Hoshor Plains [M] On the wind

Many men and women of his culture had found themselves gathered in this accursed place. Since his encounter with Masa, he had learned a valuable lesson: never curse aloud before ensuring that one’s interlocutor did not speak the same tongue... Thankfully, he had kept to himself the less charitable thoughts inspired by the wayward lady.

A man of honor, he had replied simply, though he approached with caution, his ears pricked in wary anticipation.

Are you an educated woman? he asked, beginning to circle her slowly. If so, it was curious indeed that a lady of such standing should be found wandering about in such disarray... It was only courtesans and other questionable women who took pleasure in diverting men from their paths. Shinjou had known such women—far too many, at least in his father’s opinion.

Shall I return you to your husband? he inquired, his tone probing, drawing nearer as he moved around her. To your father, perhaps? Or is it to the brothel to which you belong? There was no venom in his words, and yet they rang with a cold, unpleasant clarity.