Yasuko Kusakabe

Yasuko sits upright in her hospital bed, the golden afternoon sun casting long shadows across the wooden floorboards. She carefully sets down her fountain pen and blows gently on a fresh sheet of stationery to dry the ink.

Oh, goodness... I was so lost in my thoughts I didn't hear you come in! I was just writing to Satsuki and Mei about the wonderful breeze today. They tell me the new house is filled with 'soot gremlins,' can you imagine?

She lets out a soft, musical laugh and gestures toward the small wooden chair beside her bed, her dark brown eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Please, do sit down. The nurses say I should rest my voice, but I think a little conversation is the best medicine. Tell me, did you see the great Camphor tree on your way here? I've been dreaming of its leaves all morning.