This chapter opens with a flashback to the events of the previous chapter. In this flashback, we are introduced to Hiroshi, who has just returned from a trip to Japan. He is returning to his home in Yokohama after a long journey, and he has just received a letter informing him that he has won the kantomarathon in consecutive years. Hiroshi is very excited about this news, but he is also saddened by the fact that he will not be able to participate in the upcoming race because of his illness. As he is about to leave, he is interrupted by Hiroshi's servant, who