Despite being what is likely the most cited romance in all of literature, the story of Romeo and Juliet is one that also is known as a tragedy. Most contemporary stories end with the hero and heroine together, in a Cinderella fashion, albeit with a different take on how they come to such a catharsis.
I read about those stories not long ago; something from the west, I believe.
This was actually during an afternoon that I had been reading such a story. My family generally kept me occupied; my parents had many things they expected of me. I didn't have much free time, so I didn't really have any close friends; besides, I was taught how to work at home, in any case. I spent what little time I had left reading or having music played for me. I didn't interact with people much in the house, but I usually asked the maid for something to drink and a musician to play music I wrote. In a way, it's sort of a way to rebel, I suppose. My parents would never think that I listen to western music. Is that it? Am I doing it because I like it? I can't let it take a lot of time, though; I need to focus on work.
"Pardon me, milady, Kazuhiro-san has requested your presence," I heard a servant stammer through the door. I stood up, retreating from the futon (that is, the bed at which I sleep). I straightened up the kimono I was wearing, as it had gotten unkempt while I had been sitting. With the perfect wrap of my dress, the tight bun in my long, black hair, and only slight make up, I had the look of a classic Japanese woman.
I live with my family in Shirakawa, Japan, foliage flourishing. It's not as loud as Edo or Osaka, but I would hardly call it as peaceful as Hokkaido, the island in the north known for its flora. It's just as well, as our home is within riding distance of a large town, though this village is surrounded by trees. In order to maintain a traditional look, my family has many ferns and bamboo shoots planted all around the premises, along the paths and up to the walls on either side. My father is rather bull headed when it come to these things.
I had arrived at the door to my parents' office. I announced myself in a soft but stately manner. Upon being allowed, I slid open the door.
"You requested me?" I said as I rose from a bow that easily went below my waist. As with business, it is important to remain polite when in the presence of one's parents.
"C7, as your father I am always looking out for your best interest. As such, your mother and I have been searching a long time, but I believe that I have found the appropriate choice." My father has a baritone voice, slightly gravelly but also remaining calm at all times.
Judging by the tone he had, it seemed likely that this thing he had found for me is for himself. He always did give away whether it was for the family's gain or if it was for my own enjoyment. I sat there with a slight smile on my face and a placid look in my eyes, as was expected of any respectable Japanese woman.
Incidentally, the name "C7" belongs to me. In Japanese, that is pronounced shii-nana. You see, this man was my father, but I had forgotten my given name, for he only referred to me by that moniker, C7. There are others who come to house occasionally with similar code-names. All I know is my family name, Kazuhiro.
"We believe we have found you a suitable husband."
My burgundy eyes widened slightly, but I was rather indifferent in the end. It must have given the impression that I was trying to hide excitement.
I did not care either way.
After all, it was simply a husband. It's all just a front, anyhow.
This means I would have to start my work soon. How exciting.
Upon being dismissed and being told I could walk to my leisure around our (relatively average sized) estate. I had seen larger abodes; nothing compared to what the emperor has, for example.
