Oki-san allowed me to have today off, to go around the city and get used to being on my own. It has been a strange day, and I have seen many lovely shops and teahouses. But I have been too shy to enter any. Now I am very tired, hungry and thirsty, and here is another place where I can get food and tea. It is called the Kublai Khantina. I hesitate, and peek in the open door.

The room is not too full, and is restful looking. And there are wonderful aromas drifting past my nose. Gathering my courage, I slip shyly in and make my way to a table by the wall. I settle down, and look around at the people. My eye is caught my the man behind the bar. He is quite good looking and keeps flushing, and I realize that the other patrons all know each other, and him, and are teasing him. Listening to their conversation, I learn that they are looking for a bride for him.

One of them repeats what he has said he wants in a wife. Hmmm..... shy, able to help in the Khantina..... well, both of those fit. And I am able to sing, dance, play shamisan and converse, among other things. My musings are interupted when a server comes and asks what I would like. After finding out what foods and tea are available, I give my order, and go back to thinking. Soon the food and tea are served - and very nicely, too - but my mind is still so busy, I hardly taste it. He really is nice looking. And now I hear that he is a Samurai! Oh, my!