Mei undergoes strict instruction from a geisha named Otoyakko to become a proper lady worthy of being Ougai’s fiancée. She struggles desperately to learn how to wear a kimono, how to carry herself, and etiquette. Otoyakko observes Mei and tells her that, „I don’t mind women like you.” As Mei’s training continues, she fails to take notice of when Otoyakko slips and speaks in a more manly tone, revealing that her geisha mentor may not be all „she” appears to be.