"Jion-ama," Yuta said, "may I present my wife, the Lady Noriko." "Ama" was one of the titles used to address a woman religious.

Jion's face was well schooled by many years of Buddhist practice, so she did not react with particular surprise, but "lady?" That was unusual for the wife of a teacher, except at an Imperial University.

"I am honored to meet you, Jion-ama," Noriko replied with a bow. "These are our nieces."

Introductions were unusual. It wasn't ...