There's a slight different atmosphere to the mansion tonight. Not only is summer in the air in the lazy afternoon heat, but there are tantalizing smells floating around -- takoyaki (octopus in batter), toffee apples and sugared fruits, yaki-soba (friend noodles), yakitori (meat on sticks), the kakikori (shaved ice) syrup ...

Outside, mingling with the ever-present fog, an improbable bamboo grove has sprung up. A path winds through it, gaily festooned with streamers, lamps, and coloured stars. Flutes and the faint beating of drums sound faintly through it, playing a simple, sweet melody that is difficult to define. The path ends in front of a single bamboo branch upon which colourful strips of paper hang -- this is after all the main focus of the Tanabata festival. Write your wish, hang it on the bamboo and with any luck ...

Nearby are the sources of those delicious smells; festival stalls standing empty, their wares open to all.

July 7th, Tanabata. A night for wishes; a night to watch the stars -- if you can see them throughout the fog.

Enjoying the festival is a Ran who for once does not look out of place in her yukata. Her cheek is still bruised, but she has washed and arranged her hair and if she still looks pale, at least she seems peaceful.