Genji sent Yugiri to Tamakazura with a message from the emperor to summon her to the court. She had been friendly enough in the days when he had thought her his sister, and it did not seem right to be suddenly cool and distant. She received him at her curtains as before. He had not forgotten the glimpse he had of her the morning after the typhoon. Now the situation had changed, and he had come provided with a fine bouquet of purple pantaloon to attract her attention. But her answer was careful. The ribbons of his cap were tied up in a sign of mourning for his grandmother.

The Ninth Month came. The time approached for Tamakazura to start her service at court. Her women brought messages to her from various suitors. She had them read to her. General Higeguro wrote that he would do everything to get her during the Ninth Month. Prince Hotaru wrote her not to forget him even in the court. The royal guard Sahyoenokami wrote that it was difficult to forget her. Although Higeguro showed his strong intention to marry her, Tamakazura only replied to Prince Hotaru.