That went well, Setsuka mused to himself as the dancers took their bows. He had worried a little about one dance, mainly because the lead had consistently turned on his right foot instead of his left, which ended up complicating Setsuka’s choreography needlessly. Today however, the entire performance had gone smoothly.

After the Imperial Dancers had all left the stage and the applause had quieted, Setsuka went out to greet his audience. By greeting the audience after a performance, the dancers enjoyed the opportunity to gain a good impression of what the audience thought could be improved upon, as well as modestly accept any praise that was given. Many praises were being given to the leading man, whom Setsuka had to admit had done splendidly.

Setsuka was watching the lead enjoy the praises when a woman approached. She looked to be about four years younger than him, dressed formally, like what many of the courtiers in the palace typically wore.

I enjoyed your performance, she was saying, I am Chiyo,

Setsuka bowed, deeply, I am honored that Madame enjoyed it. I am Setsuka.

Chiyo smiled. I know. I thought your portrayal of the villain was excellent. Is there any villainy in you to provide your inspiration?

At first Setsuka was a little shocked at the implication, but he quickly realized that she was joking. Not much, he smiled back, at least, I think not. The movements of a villain are pleasing to me to perform, and the opportunity to act as something I am not is a great exercise in imagination.

I am glad, Chiyo chuckled, I do not have quite such a luxury.

Setsuka was puzzled at her meaning. Does Madame refer to the…lack, of imagination in the courtly arts?

No, no! she was obviously very amused, I think the courtly arts require a good deal of imagination sometimes. A courtier is a civil servant of the Empire, whose duty it is to minister to the people. I think that an effective courtier must be able to approach her duties with humility, as well as use her imagination to realize the most efficient way to minister.

A very different method than in dance, Setsuka pointed out.

Another smile. Setsuka privately thought Madame Chiyo had a very nice smile. Well, yes, I suppose, she said.

What did Madame refer to, if not imagination?

Her smile faded, much to Setsuka’s worry. I was referring to acting as something you are not. I am a courtier, though I think I am not always expected to act like one.

Setsuka was even more confused. How could Madame be expected to act as anything else?

Chiyo looked at him for, what seemed to Setsuka, to be a long time. Her eyes drifted over his face, studying him. What Setsuka didn’t realize was that Chiyo was privately having the same thought about his face that he had thought of her smile.

At last, she laughed. You are right, of course. You must forgive me, I have been… homesick, I suppose. Sometimes the Imperial City tires me.

Then I am glad I was able to relieve Madame Chiyo’s mind from her troubles, if only for a short time. Setsuka bowed gracefully, with a grand flourish, hoping to prompt another smile.

He succeeded. I fear I must leave, she said, but I look forward to seeing your next performance.

I look forward to seeing Madame there. Setsuka replied.

After Chiyo left, Setsuka looked around the stage. They would have to take everything down today, and then the Imperial Dancers would rest for a couple weeks before starting rehearsals again. Setsuka already had ideas for the next performances choreography. It would require some renovations to the stage, though.