Summary

In September, Sayuri and General Tottori perform a ceremony to celebrate their alliance. Her encounters with him happen twice a week. They are gradually reduced to an unpleasantness she tolerates. Then, in the spring of 1939, Sayuri meets Yasuda Akira, and soon he is inviting her to the Tatematsu Teahouse weekly. After three months, he brings her a simple kimono. Soon after, they are alone together. It is the first time that Sayuri gives herself to a man for pleasure. It is an awakening for her that is unparalleled. Meanwhile, as her danna, the General ensures they have a regular supply of tea, sugar, medicine, and even chocolates – all of which were becoming difficult if not impossible to find in Gion. Nobu stops inviting her to parties, and her invitations to Iwamura Electric’s parties cease as well. A young geisha approaches her and...