From about the beginning of the Third Month, Genji thought about the Akashi lady, for her time was approaching. He sent off a messenger who returned with good news that a girl was safely delivered on the sixteenth. He was reminded of what a fortune-teller had once told him. Genji would have three children who would be certain to become emperor, empress and chancellor. Genji badly regretted letting his daughter not be born in Kyoto. 

When the long rains of early summer came, he paid a visit to Hanachirusato, the lady of orange blossoms. She was totally dependent on Genji. Through she saw little of him, she never showed her resentment like a modern girl. He knew that she would not make him uncomfortable. He was himself very beautiful in the misty moonlight. She was waiting for him out near the veranda, in contemplation of the night. From nearby there came the metallic cry of a water rail. Her soft and modest character pleased Genji.

In the autumn Genji made a pilgrimage to Sumiyoshi shrine. It was a brilliant progress, thanks to his prayers. A huge number of attendants participated. Men who had in earlier days led bitter lives like Koremitsu and Yoshikiyo were among them. For the Akashi lady it was tormenting to see the entire splendor but not see Genji himself. Even a small child like Yugiri had his own servants. The lady felt the difference between Genji and her own family. It seemed that her daughter was utterly significant. As she thought that the god would scarcely notice her little offering, she directed her boat to Naniwa.

Returning to Kyoto, the Rokujo lady fell ill and died. In his retreat, holding a religious service, Genji sent frequently to inquire after her daughter to console her. It was a day of high wind, driving snow and sleet. He thought how much more miserable the weather must seem to her. Genji sent a poem saying that the spirit of her mother would watch over her. He wrote it with a dazzling brush on a paper of cloudy azure.