@Limaluciola - I really liked that bit of storytelling - it was something horrible that would and could happen even today, and most modern authors would indulge in decrying how much a a tragedy it was, but instead, Ran makes a choice and makes peace with it and passes on wisdom to "Ran." I wish there was a parallel story or a sequel about her, she's such an incredibly different person from the momentary glimpse we caught of her in the first chapter!
Also, Masato, thank you for being honest. I know you're going to regret that immediately, but that it happened was adorable.