The season was far advanced when Etoile Nord came to Kyoto to study at a certain university.
The sound of temple bells stretched thinly across the day and five-storied pagodas bathed in the setting sun. Crimson leaves fluttered down from the maple trees and shadows rustled among the fallen leaves. Cool air hung fragrant with chrysanthemum. Leaves of the gingko flamed gold.
Nine days passed. Late one afternoon when Etoile returned to his room he found a little insect sitting on the desk by his window.