The sun was glowing through the small window onto the unwashed plates when Mrs. Yuki realized there was no fish or pasta for lunch. She retrieved a screwdriver, then used it on the small room’s weathered door. Lacking a handle, this was the only way she could turn the creaky lock. She finally forced the door open enough to leave, succeeding after repeated attempts.

“Chiyo, my little daughter.”

“Oh, my dear prince, what a beautiful gift. Yes, I know, I had to fight a dragon, so I'm not surprised you like it. You deserve half the kingdom and this castle; my father certainly does...”

“Chiyo, my little one. Please put away your toys and listen to me.”

“Ok, Mommy.” Little Chiyo placed the two branches, tied together with string, in the dust. Despite everything, she saw them as if they were dolls made with the greatest care, wearing velvet and silk dresses. The pile of pebbles next to her was a castle carved by the craftiest craftsman.

“Honey, please go buy some fish and noodles. Here's four yen. Take care of it!” Mrs. Yuki put the coins into her daughter's hand and sent her on her way.

Chiyo's shoulder-length, straight-cut hair was gently caught in the summer breeze as she skipped along the sidewalk in the Japanese city. Not wearing any shoes, she could feel every unevenness of the paving stones on her feet, but also their refinement. A car drove past her, its wheels diving into a puddle, covering the poor girl. However, she didn't wipe herself, because it was just another stain on top of the others; it didn't matter that much.