2-tu

Toil

“Get this work done by the end of the day, or you’re leaving this place for good!” The supervisor shouted into his ears, then slammed down an impossibly thick stack of papers before leaving. He sighed and stared at the stack of papers for some time.

Why do we work?

Why must we participate in this rat race?

What do we get from all this, other than stress and exhaustion?

Even when I received material wealth, I must continue to work.

This Sisyphean life, I yearn to escape from.

===

There was no response at first, then the large wooden door slowly creaked open.

Behind the door was a fair maiden. She was wearing a somewhat large, loose-fitting Shinto robe with thick block patterns on it. Her obsidian eyes first looked at her grass sandals, then she lifted her head.

Their eyes met for a second. Both of them quickly looked away afterwards.

He introduced himself, and asked about his location.
She introduced herself as Nissui Kamuy, and said that the place was called Mosirihi.

It didn’t help him at all.

Out of options, he asked if he could stay at her place temporarily. The girl hesitated, but agreed.

===

He lied on the wooden porch, staring up into the sky. The clouds accompanied by a light breeze, calmed him down somewhat.

Footsteps were heard from behind. He got up and looked.

Nissui was carrying a tray. She lay down the tray at the side, and sat down next to him.

“Tea?”

He obliged.

Taking the polished stone cup, he took a sip. It was just warm enough, and the taste was quite strong. Gulping the whole cup, he let out a sigh of satisfaction.

He thanked her for the tea, and lay back down on the wooden flooring, content.

After some time, she made a request. She explained that now there are two people in the household, additional food would be needed. Listening to her, he nodded his head. Grinning confidently, he assured her that he would help out.

He then borrowed her somewhat worn-out fishing kit, and made his way to the stream near the village with her directions.

===

The steamed fish was a culinary delight! Or so he remarked.

Nissui blushed and looked away from the table, saying it was nothing much.

He crossed his legs properly, then commented that this was the first time that he saw the fruits of his labour.

She was curious, and inquired about his statement.

“Oh, it’s nothing,” he said, putting down his chopsticks, “but I like this place.”

Looking outside, the moon that night was exceptionally bright.