Saitou:
Hachirou was nothing more than a Gentleman’s Club where the only saving grace of the place is it’s ability to be discreet as to the nature of its patrons. He’s no different than the other third-rate politicians working in the Meiji, corrupt and spends his time with women and drinking. Though this one seems to have a penchant for younger or younger looking girls. My face involuntarily twitches at the thought of his likely lascivious activities. How many and how many times in the past?
But after scouting out Hachirou, I go to another seedy place in the bowels of Yoshiwara. I need to see if my old “acquaintance” still has the connections to infiltrate the place and plant my operative. Another one simply called “Obaa-san.” And it is she who has the connections I need and who has done me -questionable- favors in the past. Favors for Saitou Hajime, who was dirty with women and the -thug- who became a legend in the Shinsengumi. But gray alliances are necessary especially -now-.
“Aioi will be coming back here.”
“I thought that woman ran away with that Imai, some Samurai insurgent who tried to throw his weight around here in Yoshiwara?”
“She did and I caught her. And she needs to make up for the time she’s been away.”
The old woman grins, “I always liked Aioi. She’s much older than the girls here but she knows how to captivate even the best of them.”
“For now I have a favor to ask. I think that it may prove beneficial to both of us.”
“Oh… And what’s that?”
“While Aioi was “away”, she met with a rather interesting and generous acquaintance. A politician named Miyagawa Kichirou. I’d like her to be sent to this place called Hachirou.”
“Hachirou?” Obaa-san frowns. “But that means giving them more business Saitou… I don’t like that.”
“He’s not just any politician, he’s well stacked. He’ll be worth more than the other business combined.”
“I don’t know.” She looks skeptical. “I don’t want to strengthen Hachirou business for merely one “stacked” politician.”
“So you’re saying you’re insecure with Hachirou business? That you feel -threatened-.” I grin, “I’m sorry Obaa-san but maybe this place isn’t as good as it was before.” I start to stand up from where Im sitting.
“Sit down Wolf!” She barks at me. “How dare you -insult- me, when you know each girl behind any slat in Yoshiwara is there by my decree.”
I pretend to stop in my tracks and tentatively sit back down and raise my hand as a gesture of apology.
“Obaa-san come now. You saw through me.” I grin, “I -knew- the extent of your influence, that’s why this old dirty wolf like coming directly to you.”
That seems to please her and she laughs and taps my shoulder. “I’m glad you’re back. Not only will you find me girls but customers as well.”
I laugh along with her. “Of course. Of course. Obaa-san.” Find your girls and customers yourself, you -witch-. I’m only here for one thing and one thing only.
“Get her ready and I’ll put in a good word for her.” She reaches for her pipe and starts smoking, “I’ll let you know when you can send her to Hachirou. And don’t let her be late. I have a reputation uphold.”
“Of course.” And I respectfully let my temple touch the floor. This part is done.