Upon discovering Genjo’s dead body in the creek, Tanha stomped in objection.

The crows dissipated along with the mist, but Genjo was still dead.

Tanha spun thirty seven times, recited several botanical names of flora surrounding her, and embraced an emperor’s poise.

Genjo was still dead.

Tanha climbed a Salix matsudana willow, stripped to her chills, and discovered Buddha in a cloud.

Below, Genjo was still dead.

Tanha tumbled into amnesia and then… Genjo was still dead.

A hundred li west, a child blew a marble along a Dalbergia latifolia rosewood dresser, but Genjo was still dead.