9.22 Culture for the Village, and a Proposition

Slim Novel 9 - http://adventuresofkimi.blogspot.com - See Homepage


22. Culture in the Village

Headman stops by and greets Jun, then turns to Kimi. “I have heard, Sister, you play instrument and sing and dance in the ancient fashion.”

   She nods Yes.

   “We should be pleased to have you entertain at Festival.”

   She mentions there is not much time to prepare a repertoire. Also Tanaka needs her.
   Jun interrupts “Do not worry about that, Sister. I shall help Grandfather. So please perform.”

   “And I have prepared a repertoire,” adds Headman.

   “But what about instruments?”

   “We shall have all you need.”

   And it is true. One of Headman’s great interests is to bring Culture to the Village so several years ago the Cooperative purchased traditional instruments and their being played at Festival is a high point. Headman himself is expert, and for Festival he normally hires geisha dance accompaniment while he plays but now he wants Kimi.

All week she practices and sees little of Jun but thinks often of the young man with his serious eyes especially as she lies on mat trying to sleep. That she is attracted, yes; that something will happen, …?

   Grandma senses it. One day she brings up marriage and asks if she may speak with Tanaka. A fierce negative head shake ends that. But her blush shows.
   To read on click 9.(23-25) Love on Old Smokey