The doorbell interrupted miko training again later in the day, much to Akiko’s relief. She was sure she’d snap if she had to practise walking across the room one more time. This time, looking through the frosted glass of the door, she thought it was Akira, and went with Shiraishi without being asked.

She was right; he bowed to them, and then took his mask off.

“Revd Shiraishi, Ms Tanahata. Can I speak to both of you? It’s about my father.â€ The priest gestured for him to come in, and led the way to the reception room. She left Akiko with him while she went to get tea, and Akira quickly turned to her.

“What have you told her already?â€ Akiko blushed, suddenly wondering what was supposed to be secret.

“Well, about my visions, of course, and about the pressure from Mr Wakabayashi on his business. Shouldn’t I have?â€ Akira shook his head.

“No, it’s fine. I just wanted to know how much background I had to fill in.â€

“So, what is it?â€

“I’d rather wait until the priest is here as well.â€ He paused, taking a deep breath. “I’d rather not have to do this twice.â€ Akiko nodded, thinking she understood, and they sat in silence until Shiraishi returned.

“Well, Akira, what can we help you with?â€

“The offices of Tateyama Construction were struck by lightning last night. No-one was there, so there were no casualties, but it was a while before the fire brigade were called; their office is some way from any houses. The building was, apparently, completely destroyed.â€ He paused, taking another deep breath. “Tateyama Construction is another company that used to deal with my father.â€

Akiko was shocked, and looked at Shiraishi to gauge the priest’s reaction. She seemed equally surprised, and worried, and sipped nervously at her tea.

“Do you…â€ The priest’s voice was very tentative, and she didn’t manage to finish the sentence.

“I think it might be my father’s curse, yes. I suppose I can understand why he’s doing this, but he was never violent. What changed?â€

“He died.â€ Akiko regretted the words the moment they passed her lips; far too blunt. Akira swayed backwards almost as if struck, and looked down, blinking rapidly. “Oh, I’m sorry…â€ She started to apologise, but Akira held a hand up, shaking his head. Swallowing and wiping his eyes, he looked up.

“No, no. You’re right. He died, and that seems to make a big difference.â€ He took a deep breath, which shuddered in his throat, and blinked a few more times. “I’ve been thinking about how to pacify him.â€ He looked down again, looking at both of them. “I’ve decided to drop out of university and take over the business. I have the necessary training, and Mr Nakayama’s agreed to advise me. He says that my father always wanted me to…â€ Akira broke off, and covered his eyes with his hands for a moment.

“The life insurance payment will cover all the debts, with a couple of months of salaries left over.â€ He tried to smile, but it was thin. “Father increased the policy when I was born. I guess he really didn’t want to leave us in trouble.â€ Drawing a deep breath again, he took a sip of tea. Akiko stayed quiet, giving him time.

“I want to go and talk to the people who used to work with us; offer them the chance to hire us again. Akiko, would you act as my secretary? Just for a day or two?â€

Akiko couldn’t bring herself to refuse.