Prologue
The setting is the Edo capital period, in the second year of Tenwa (1682).
Under the reign of the fifth Shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the city of Edo was nothing less than the beating heart of Japan, radiating unparalleled energy.
People from across the country flocked to the Edo capital, where culture and commerce flourished in vibrant harmony, their vitality pulsating day and night without rest.
The streets were tightly packed with wooden houses, their narrow alleys alive with vibrant voices.
Merchants loudly touted their goods as “the best in Edo capital!” while children filled the backstreets with laughter, their cheerful play a common sight.
On the bustling main roads, merchants, craftsmen, and samurai dressed in vivid kimonos passed one another.
Each life intersected with another, transforming the entire city into a grand, lively stage.
However, lurking beneath this prosperity was a deep sense of unease.
The city of Edo capital, with its densely packed wooden structures, faced a constant risk of fire, especially when the dry winter winds blew.
Large fires were so frequent that they were ironically referred to as “Edo capital’s flowers,” symbolizing a daily fear that was inseparable from the lives of the Edo capital townsfolk.
During this season of dry, cold winds, the townsfolk kept their homes warm with firewood, yet their vigilant eyes were ever watchful for the telltale signs of a fire that could erupt anywhere in the city.
This story is about a young girl living in a town of the Edo capital, weaving a tale of love that is pure, heart-wrenching, and profoundly dramatic.
Oshichi, the daughter of a greengrocer.
The small flame that sparked within her heart eventually grew into a roaring blaze, one so fierce that it consumed her very fate.
That fire never extinguished and, even now, transcending time, continues to illuminate the hearts of people.
Chapter 1: Yaoya Oshichi
It was the Edo capital period, in the winter of Tenna 2 (1682).
In a corner of the Edo capital’s Hongō district, the family of Tarobei, a greengrocer, lived amidst the bustling commotion.
Tarobei’s daughter, Oshichi, was a charming 16-year-old girl with a bright personality and an ever-present smile, beloved by everyone in the neighborhood.
It was said that when she stood by the storefront, the fresh vegetables on display seemed to shine even brighter.
However, that peaceful daily life was about to be completely overturned on one cold winter day.
On December 28th of that year, a great fire engulfed the city, painting the Edo capital sky a vivid crimson.
This fire would go on to profoundly change the course of her life.
Chapter 2: The Great Fire That Befell Her Family
That night, carried by the cold winter wind, flames erupted in the city of Edo capital.
As people lay asleep, cries of terror and shouts of “Fire!” echoed from nowhere, racing through the streets of the city.
“Fire! Run for your lives!”
That night, as flames engulfed the streets of the Edo capital, Oshichi’s family found themselves amidst the chaos.
Tarobei, her father, worked tirelessly to protect their home, but his foremost priority was to ensure the safe evacuation of his family.
Father:
“Oshichi! Wake up quickly!”
“There’s a fire— we must escape from here!”
Oshichi:
“Father, if we take these vegetables with us…”
Father:
“Forget about those things!”
“The most important thing is that you all stay safe!”
The family rushed out of the house and took refuge along a nearby riverside.
Neighbor:
“The carpenter’s house across the street is on fire too!”
Neighbor:
“Help me! Somebody, please!”
Amidst the flames, the residents called out to one another, striving to help each other.
Seeing an elderly neighbor struggling to carry out his belongings, Oshichi’s father, Tarohei, despite coughing from the smoke, began helping him.
Neibor:
“Thank you, Tarobei-san!”
Watching that scene, Oshichi felt both the terror of the flames and the profound strength of the bonds between people.
Father:
“We’ve lost the shop, but the most important thing is that our family is safe.”
Oshichi’s younger brother, crying, asked:
“Father, will our home come back to us?”
Tarohei gently patted his son’s head with trembling hands and replied.
Father:
“Don’t worry.”
“We can rebuild the house. But the most important thing for me is that you are all safe.”
As the flames drew closer, the nearby residents called out to one another, offering help and guiding each other to safety.
Neighbor:
“Tarobei, is your house safe?”
Father:
“Everyone is safe, but the house is… gone.”
Seeing the faces covered in ash yet hearing their voices calling out to one another, Oshichi felt a faint glimmer of hope.
Amidst the sorrow of losing her home, it was also a moment when she witnessed the strength of the bonds among the townspeople.
The young firefighters:
“Over here! Bring more water!”
The young firefighters desperately carried buckets, bravely confronting the raging flames.
The townsfolk not only worked to protect their own homes but also moved about to help their neighbors in need.
Neighbors:
“Hey, you there! Give me a hand!”
“Got it! Let’s move these belongings over here!”
Seeing a young man climb onto the neighbor’s roof to brush away falling embers, Oshichi silently prayed in her heart.
Oshichi’s wish:
(Please, let everyone stay safe…)
The man:
“The flames are heading this way!”
The man who shouted led a nearby woman and child to a safe place.
Though uncertainty flickered in his eyes, there was no hesitation in his actions.
Oshichi turned to look back at her home and saw the house where she had grown up engulfed in flames.
Oshichi:
“Our home…!”
Without time to salvage their belongings, the family sought refuge by the nearby riverbank.
Looking up at the towering pillars of flames, tears welled up in Oshichi’s eyes and began to fall.
Around her, others who had also lost their homes gathered, their cries of despair mixing with the urgent shouts of the firefighters.
Amid the wails of despair and the shouts of the firefighters, the town was reduced to ashes.
However, all she could do was stand there, tears streaming down her face, watching helplessly as the town turned to ashes before her eyes.
Oshichi:
“Why… how did it come to this…?”
murmured Oshichi, her heart overwhelmed by anxiety and despair, spreading like the flames leaping from house to house.
Chapter 3: Life in Refuge
Oshichi’s family, having been displaced by the fire, sought refuge at Shōsen-in temple, a temple located in Komagome.
The temple was overflowing with disaster victims, but it provided a safe haven where they could preserve their lives.
One day, an elderly woman appeared, carrying rice balls in her hands.
Her name was O-Tsune.
She was an elderly woman from the neighborhood who, upon seeing the evacuees at the temple, decided to help in any way she could.
She cooked rice and made rice balls to share with them.
Elderly woman:
“If we help each other, we’ll get through this somehow.”
When the elderly woman from the neighboring house began handing out the rice balls she had prepared, smiles started to reappear among the evacuees.
O-Tsune:
“Here, I hope this helps lift your spirits a little.”
Elderly man:
“Thank you so much, O-Tsune-san, especially during such a difficult time.”
In response, O-Tsune’s face took on a slightly wistful expression as she began to speak.
Otsune:
“No, you see, I’m just repaying a kindness from the past.”
Oshichi, with a look of curiosity, asked,
Oshichi:
“A kindness from the past?”
Otsune:
“When I was young, I too lost my home in a great fire.”
“At that time, I thought I wouldn’t survive.”
“But then, neighbors shared their rice with me, just like this.”
“Those rice balls saved my life.”
“From that day forward, I vowed to help others whenever I saw someone in need.”
Oshichi:
“Do you still remember that time, O-Tsune-san?”
Otsune:
“How could I forget?”
“Back then, everyone helped each other to survive.”
“It’s during tough times that sharing with others becomes most important.”
Oshichi:
“Otsune-san, I want to become someone who can help others someday too.”
Otsune:
“That’s right.”
“I’m sure you can become someone who makes a difference for others.”
That day, O-Tsune’s rice balls did more than just satisfy hunger; they warmed people’s hearts and kindled a flame of hope.
On the other hand, some people grew increasingly frustrated with living in such cramped quarters.
The man:
“How are we supposed to live in such a cramped place?!”
The mother, gently calming her younger son, quietly says to Oshichi:
Mother:
“We have to live by helping each other.”
“That’s all we can do.”
Life in the refuge at Shōsen-in temple was much more difficult than they had imagined.
However, the warmth of the townspeople continued to support Oshichi’s family.
One day, Jinbei, a carpenter from next door, arrived at Shōsen-in temple carrying a sack.
Jinbei:
“Tarōbei-san, this is just a little, but I hope it can be of help.”
Seeing the rice bale being offered by Jinbei, Tarōbei lowered his head, his eyes filled with tears.
Father:
“Thank you so much, Jinbei-san…”
“I can’t believe you’re thinking of us at a time like this.”
Jinbei smiled and patted Tarozaemon on the shoulder.
Jinbei:
“When you’re in trouble, we help each other.”
“That’s the way of life in Edo capital, right?”
At that moment, Oshichi, who had been listening to the conversation, asked Jinbei.
Oshichi:
“Jinbei-san, why are you able to help others so easily?”
Jinbei:
“Oshichi-chan, I too lost my house in a big fire a long time ago.”
“At that time, the people in the neighborhood helped me.”
“I had no food or a place to sleep, but someone reached out to me, and thanks to them, I’m alive today.”
“And that’s when I decided.”
“If I see someone in need, it’s my turn to help.”
“Otherwise, the town of Edo capital won’t be able to stand.”
Oshichi:
“Thank you, Mr. Jinbei.”
“We also want to be able to help someone someday.”
Jinbei:
“Oshichi-chan, it’s okay to cry when you’re in pain.”
“But I’m sure there will be days when you can smile again.”
“So, don’t push yourself too hard, and support your family.”
Those words made Oshichi nod slightly, feeling warmth in her heart.
Jinbei’s words were deeply etched into Oshichi’s heart, influencing her actions and emotions in the future.
Oshichi also showed her growth during the evacuation, helping her mother while taking care of her young brother.
Despite being crushed by the grief of losing their home, Oshichi aimed to rebuild her life with her family.
Mother:
“Although this has happened, let’s keep going.”
“We can rebuild our home.”
At her mother’s encouragement, Oshichi nodded softly.
Chapter 4: The Encounter
During her time in the refuge at Shōsen-in temple, Oshichi has a fateful encounter.
He is a temple servant named Ikuta Shōnosuke.
He was a diligent and kind-hearted young man who took care of the evacuees and performed various chores around the temple.
At first, she only saw him from a distance, but one day, while carrying some luggage, Oshichi slipped and almost fell.
At that moment, Shōnosuke extended his hand to help her.
Shōnosuke:
“Are you alright, miss?”
Oshichi:
“Yes, I’m fine.”
“Thank you for your kindness…”
At that moment, a small flame was lit in Oshichi’s heart.
That flame was different from the terrifying fire that had ravaged the town; it was a warm and gentle feeling.
As their stay at the Shōsen-in temple extended, various rumors began to spread among the refugees.
Wisper:
“I often see you talking to that temple page, Oshichi.”
“Surely not, that’s not the case.”
Meanwhile, an older woman, who had witnessed the interactions between Shōnosuke and Oshichi, murmured.
Wisper:
“Every time those two’s eyes meet, I feel like there’s something special between them”
The older woman murmured.
Upon hearing those words, curiosity, and concern about the two began to spread among the people.
Wisper:
“Surely, a samurai and the daughter of a merchant… Their social classes are too different.”
The feelings that began to grow in Oshichi’s heart started to stir quiet interest among some of the townspeople.
Also, when Shōnosuke first saw Oshichi, he felt as if he were drawn in by the depth of her gaze.
The moment Shōnosuke looked into Oshichi’s eyes, he felt a stirring deep within his heart.
It was a sensation as if something strong had gripped his chest, yet at the same time, it conveyed a great gentleness.
He felt confused by the fact that his heart had been captured by something, but every time he saw her smile, he couldn’t stop the warmth from spreading deep inside his chest.
Shōnosuke:
(What is this feeling…)
(Why does her presence stay with me so much…)
(I want to be by her side, but I know that won’t be possible.)
Shōnosuke could not say anything at that moment and could only release his hand and bow.
At night, Shōnosuke walked alone through the temple grounds, lost in thought.
Shōnosuke:
(I am a samurai.)
(She is the daughter of a merchant. )
(There is an insurmountable barrier between our social statuses…)
(And my duty is to help the refugees, not to entertain feelings beyond that…)
Their love was a forbidden one, crossing the strict boundaries of the social hierarchy.
In the society of the time, the social hierarchy was strictly divided into samurai, farmers, artisans, and merchants, with the samurai at the top and the merchants at the bottom.
Love and marriage between the highest-ranking samurai and the lowest-ranking merchants were not recognized.
Shōnosuke belonged to the samurai class, while Oshichi’s family was a merchant family running a vegetable shop.
Their feelings were pure and passionate, but the insurmountable wall of the social hierarchy, a hopeless reality of the time, threatened to extinguish the flames of their love.
He reminded himself that he was a samurai, bound to serve, and tried to suppress the feelings that had started to grow in his heart.
However, when he closed his eyes for a moment, her smile appeared before him, and he couldn’t stop the warmth from spreading through his heart.
Oshichi:
“Shōnosuke-sama, is this… fate?”
Shōnosuke:
“Oshichi-sama, I am not sure if it is fate, but I am grateful for this moment where I could meet you.”
As their conversation gradually became more relaxed, Shōnosuke felt that Oshichi was starting to regain her smile.
Over time, he began to develop a deep desire to stay by her side forever.
However, on the other hand, there was a deep conflict within his heart.
Shōnosuke:
(This feeling cannot be expressed.)
(Falling in love with the daughter of a merchant is unthinkable.)
(It should never be allowed.)
(Yet, no matter how hard I try, I can’t get her out of my head.)
Despite his inner turmoil, Shōnosuke couldn’t suppress his growing feelings for Oshichi.
Every time he saw her smile, he felt as if his heart was being healed.
Chapter 5: Looking Back at the Burnt Ruins
Oshichi’s family continued to live at Shōsen-in temple for a while, making plans to rebuild their home in the Bunkyo district.
As they progressed with the rebuilding of their home, the people of the town also lent a helping hand.
Town’s blacksmith:
“Here, this is some leftover wood. Please use it.”
When Oshichi saw the materials offered by the town’s blacksmith, her heart swelled with emotion.
Oshichi:
“Why is everyone being so kind to us?”
Town’s blacksmith:
“When you’re in trouble, we help each other.
“That’s the way of Edo capital.”
Hearing those words, Oshichi once again felt the warmth of the people in the town.
Thanks to their help, the family gradually began to regain their daily lives.
Each time, Oshichi would think of Shōnosuke, and a feeling that tightened her chest would fill her heart.
One day, Shōnosuke gathered his courage and invited Oshichi to the burned ruins.
Shōnosuke:
“Oshichi-san, if you’d like, would you come with me to see how your family’s house is?”
Oshichi:
“Yes, I would love to.”
On the way, Shōnosuke’s heart was pounding.
However, despite his racing heart, he desperately tried to remain calm.
Every time he met her, strong emotions grew within him, but he was fully aware that those feelings were impossible to fulfill.
The two of them stood at the burned remains.
Oshichi quietly opened her mouth.
Oshichi:
“This is… the place from that time.”
“We’ll rebuild the house again.”
“This time, we’ll make it stronger…”
Oshichi smiled, but there was a faint hint of unease and sadness in her expression.
As Shōnosuke looked at Oshichi’s smile, he felt a surge of sadness deep within his chest.
Shōnosuke:
(She is so strong.)
(In comparison, I haven’t been able to do anything for her.)
(How powerless am I?)
With resolve, Shōnosuke says.
Shōnosuke:
“If there’s anything troubling you, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
“If there’s anything I can do, I’ll help in any way I can.”
These words warmed Oshichi’s heart.
Oshichi:
“Thank you, Shōnosuke-sama.”
“I truly feel reassured.”
Shōnosuke was filled with relief by her smile, but at the same time, his heart ached as he realized that the time for parting was drawing near.
The completion of the new house marked the beginning of a new life, but at the same time, it signified the end of the life they shared with Shōnosuke.
Each time she became aware of it, her feelings for him grew stronger.
Oshichi:
“Shōnosuke-sama…”
“If the house is rebuilt and daily life returns, what will become of us…?”
Shōnosuke gasped at those words, but he was afraid to speak the truth.
Shōnosuke:
“Oshichi-san… I…”
He swallowed his words and instead continued,
Shōnosuke:
“Regardless of how the house changes, what matters most is who is there.”
While she felt relieved by his warm words, at the same time, a complex feeling stirred in Oshichi’s heart.
She too sensed that the difference in their social status would eventually tear them apart.
Oshichi:
“Even that great fire that took my house now feels like a fire of fortune.”
”Because I met you…”
As she watched the new house gradually nearing completion, she was torn by the feeling that the fire of fortune was slowly fading away.
Chapter 6: Farewell
In 1683 (the third year of Tenwa), the house was rebuilt, and Oshichi’s family was to leave Shōsen-in temple.
The day came when Oshichi was to leave Seisen-in, and Shōnosuke was overwhelmed by an indescribable sense of loss.
He realized for the first time that Oshichi had become a special presence in his life.
Shōnosuke:
(If tomorrow comes, Oshichi will leave this place.)
(Is it alright for me to stay like this? )
(Shouldn’t I tell her how I feel?)
However, he could not find the words to hold her back.
Shōnosuke:
(I want to be with Oshichi forever.)
(I don’t want her to leave.)
(But do I have the right to hold her back even though I am powerless to do the enormous wall of social class?)
The enormous wall of social class, something beyond his control, blocked Shōnosuke’s feelings.
Shōnosuke felt as if he was being crushed by his inner conflict, but he had no choice but to watch her leave.
At the moment of parting, Oshichi said to Shōnosuke through her tears.
Oshichi:
“Will we meet again, Shōnosuke-sama…”
“I will definitely come to see you again.”
Shōnosuke quietly nods while holding her hand tightly.
Among the townspeople watching the farewell of the two, there were elderly individuals looking on with concern and women with teary eyes.
Wisper:
“Those two, I hope they find happiness, but…”
One man murmured, and the woman beside him responded.
Wisper:
“But the difference in social status… that’s the problem…”
Shōnosuke:
“I will definitely wait for you.”
“But please, don’t push yourself too hard…”
“I will always wish for your happiness, Oshichi.”
In that moment, his words sounded so weak to him, and his heart tightened as if it were being squeezed.
Oshichi, feeling a bit of sadness from his words, nodded deeply.
Oshichi:
“Thank you.”
“I wish you good health, too, Shōnosuke-sama…”
Shōnosuke:
(I thought I would always be by Oshichi’s side.)
(But I can’t overcome this wall of social class.)
(I don’t have that kind of power. )
(There’s nothing I can do for her.)
(How powerless I am…)
As he watched Oshichi’s back as she left, Shōnosuke stood still, repeatedly feeling the helplessness within himself.
Chapter 7: The Days of Longing
After Oshichi left, it felt as if a large hole had opened in Shōnosuke’s heart.
He was consumed by his daily work, but in quiet moments, he would often think of Oshichi.
Shōnosuke:
(What is Oshichi doing now, I wonder?)
(I hope she’s doing well.)
He visited the places where he had memories with her, seeking traces of her.
On the other hand, Oshichi also could not forget Shōnosuke.
No matter what she was doing or where she was, Oshichi found herself always thinking about Shōnosuke.
Oshichi:
“Shōnosuke-sama…”
“I wonder if you’re doing well.”
“I hope we can meet again someday.”
They longed for each other, yet there was no way for them to express their feelings.
The walls of time and social status stood between them.
At night, she would gaze out of the window, searching for his figure in the starry sky.
Oshichi:
“The great fire has passed, and peaceful days should have returned.”
“So why does it still hurt so much?”
Though the fire that ravaged the town has been extinguished, the fire that burned in Oshichi’s heart never faded, continuing to scorch her heart with pain.
Oshichi:
“Shōnosuke-sama…”
“Why do I long to see you so much?”
“What are you doing now?”
“Where are you?”
“How can I see you again…?”
Chapter 8: Decision and Mistake
Unable to bear her growing feelings any longer, one day, a thought crossed Oshichi’s mind.
Oshichi:
“If another fire breaks out, I can take refuge in Shōsen-in temple again…”
“And that way, I can meet you, Shōnosuke-sama, once more.”
She decided to set the fire.
At that time, arson was a serious crime.
Those who committed such an act would be sentenced to a severe punishment, including being burned alive.
If she did such a thing, it would be herself who would be burned.
She knew that well.
However, the small flame of love that had ignited in her heart grew into a larger fire, fueled by the days she spent with Shōnosuke.
The painful days of not being able to see him turned that flame of love into a destructive wildfire.
No one could stop that destructive fire anymore.
At that time, marriages between samurai and merchants were not allowed.
This fact further cornered her.
Oshichi:
“I… I just want to see you, Shōnosuke-sama.”
“Why is that not allowed…?”
The flame of love was fueled by the barrier of social status and eventually led her to her own destruction.
On the other hand, Shōnosuke couldn’t stop thinking about Oshichi and was deeply concerned about her.
Shōnosuke:
(Should I just leave things as they are?）
(Should I go to meet her?)
(But even if I do, what can I possibly do?)
(I am a samurai, and she is a merchant.)
(If I go to her, it’s certain that I will not be the one blamed—she, with her lower status, will be.)
(Is that really okay?)
(Even if my going to meet her causes her life to be ruined?)
(I cannot do such a thing.)
He, too, felt frustrated by his own powerlessness.
As the night deepened and people fell into a deep sleep, Oshichi made up her mind and set fire to a corner of her house.
The spark ignited the wood, and a faint red glow spread out.
She gazed at the light and whispered to herself in her heart.
Oshichi:
“With this… I can meet you again, Shōnosuke.”
However, contrary to her expectations, the fire was weaker than she had anticipated, and it only spread a little, with smoke drifting before it stopped.
Still, the sound of the wood burning alerted the nearby residents, and they began to make noise.
The man:
“Fire! Someone, there’s a fire!”
Stunned by the voices of the people, Oshichi stood frozen in place.
Soon after, the town’s fire brigades rushed to the scene, and the fire was quickly extinguished.
The fire only scorched the exterior wall of the house slightly and did not cause any major damage.
Chapter 10: Suspicion and Interrogation
The firemen, upon investigating the scene, noticed suspicious details about the origin of the fire.
The sudden fire in the middle of the night led to suspicion, and the family of Oshichi, the residents, became suspects.
The officials arrived and began to investigate the house.
The officials:
“This fire seems suspicious.”
“It looks like something flammable was deliberately placed here.”
“Does anyone in this household know anything about it?”
The one who was suspected was Oshichi’s father.
Oshichi’s father, Tarobei, was summoned by the authorities and subjected to interrogation.
Father:
“We don’t know anything about this.”
“We never brought any fire into the house…”
The father, who is innocent, is being suspected.
Seeing this, Oshichi’s heart raced.
Unable to continue lying any longer, she finally spoke in a trembling voice.
Oshichi:
“…It was me.”
Father:
“What did you say!?”
Oshichi:
“I set the fire.”
“It was all my doing.”
The room fell silent for a moment.
All the eyes of the neighboring residents turned toward Oshichi.
Her family was left speechless, stunned, and filled with sorrow.
Chapter 11: The Arrest of Oshichi
Father:
“Oshichi, is it really you…?”
The father’s voice trembled.
Oshichi nodded quietly.
Oshichi:
“I’m sorry, Father…”
“It was all my fault.”
Mother could not hold back her tears and raised her voice.
Father:
“Why would you do something like this!?”
“We were just about to rebuild our house, and now this!”
The townspeople also started to stir in confusion.
Neighbor:
“Is it true that Oshichi started the fire?”
An elderly man, with tears in his eyes, asks his neighbor.
He was close to Oshichi’s family and stood there in disbelief.
“Oshichi? I never thought she would do such a thing…”
“Oshichi would never do something like that!”
“There must be a reason behind it!”
As a young woman raised her voice, the man standing next to her let out a sigh.
As Oshichi was being led away by the authorities, the townspeople gathered and watched her, observing her every step.
“Why, Oshichi, why did you do such a thing…?”
“If I could help, I would…”
“But arson is a grave crime in the Edo capital.”
“Once the law is broken, there’s nothing that can be done…”
Some blamed her, while others wept.
Wisper:
“That Oshichi would do something like this…”
“The laws of Edo capital are strict, but isn’t there some way to help her?”
“But arson is a grave crime in the Edo capital.”
“Once the law is broken, there’s nothing that can be done…”
The official:
“Why did you do such a thing?”
The official asked with anger in his voice.
Oshichi:
“I… I just had to, I had to see Shōnosuke-sama once more.”
The people around her couldn’t believe what they were hearing from Oshichi.
No one could believe that, in an era where people were desperately trying to protect their families and possessions, someone would intentionally set a fire.
The official:
“You’ve endangered the entire city of Edo with your actions.”
“Do you understand the severity of your crime?”
Oshichi:
“…Yes. I understand.”
“But still… I had to see him again, no matter what.”
Oshichi’s hands were bound, and she was taken away by the officials.
As he watched her being taken away, Tarobei’s voice caught in his throat.
Father:
“Why did you do this… my daughter?”
Amidst the murmurs of the townspeople, Oshichi walked on in silence.
In her heart, only her feelings for Shōnosuke remained.
Chapter 12: On the Execution Platform
March 28, 1683 (Tenwa 3, March 28)
The day came when Oshichi was sent to the Suzukamori execution ground.
Around her, the townspeople gathered, their faces filled with a mix of sorrow and shock.
While people blamed her for the crime she committed, they were at a loss for words as they understood the pure love behind her actions.
Father:
“Oshichi… I can’t believe you would do something like this…”
Father, Tarobei, tightly grasped his daughter’s hand and tearfully said his farewell.
Oshichi:
“I’m sorry, Father… I caused trouble for the family.”
As she said this, in her heart, she was thinking of Shōnosuke.
In the center of the execution platform, Oshichi is bound.
The fire has not yet been lit.
Many people gathered around the execution platform.
Their expressions were a mixture of shock, sadness, and helplessness.
Crowds:
“The law is the law, but…is there anyone who can judge the feelings of that girl?”
“That’s true. But there was nothing we could do… It’s really frustrating…”
“Such a pure-hearted girl, to be judged by the law…”
“Perhaps the flowers of the Edo capital are not just the fires, but also the unjust laws.”
“Please, may that girl find happiness in heaven…”
What could she have been thinking and wishing for during this time before the fire was set…
Chapter 13: The Moment of Execution
She continued to call his name with tears in her eyes until the very last moment,
holding the memories of him close to her heart, before throwing herself into the flames.
Oshichi:
“Shōnosuke-sama…”
That voice disappears into the roaring flames.
The gathered crowd watches the scene with expressions of sadness and astonishment.
In her eyes, memories of her days with Shōnosuke flash before her, each moment continuing to shine brightly in her heart.
Among the townspeople watching from afar, some quietly wipe away their tears, while others avert their gaze.
The sky is slightly overcast, with a gentle breeze blowing, carrying the smoke of the flames.
As the blazing flames cast a red glow on the faces of those around her, Oshichi’s heart is filled only with her deep love for Shōnosuke.
The townspeople were also confused by Oshichi’s actions.
Crowds:
“Oshichi-chan is not a bad girl. She just burned with too much love.”
“It’s unreasonable that the laws of Edo capital won’t forgive her.”
The townspeople were stunned by the news of her execution, quietly watching from a distance.
Crowds:
“May she rest in peace.”
“How could this happen to Oshichi… she was such a strong young woman.”
“But, for those two to end up like this… I can’t believe it.”
A heavy silence hung in the air throughout the town.
The smoke from the execution pyre rose high into the sky, and immeasurable sorrow,
along with a sense of resignation toward the rules-bound era, spread through the hearts of the townspeople.
Those who knew Oshichi wept as they remembered her pure love.
Crowds:
“Surely, her love will never fade, even in heaven.”
“Even though she went against the laws of Edo capital, the strength she showed, sacrificing her life for love, will never be forgotten.”
Amid the voices of the townspeople filled with sadness and sympathy, it seemed as though Oshichi’s soul rose with the flames into the sky.
The love fire that burned in her heart ultimately became the fate that consumed her own body…
Chapter 14: The Perspective of the Townspeople
After Oshichi’s death, various discussions arose among the townspeople.
Crowds:
“What Oshichi did is certainly a great crime.”
“But she was only seeking love, wasn’t she?”
“Indeed, the laws of Edo capital are strict, but to punish such pure feelings, I think something is wrong.”
“If she had been the daughter of a samurai, perhaps things would have been different.”
On the other hand, there was also this opinion.
Crowds:
“That’s certainly true, but if we don’t follow the rules, the peace of the whole town will crumble…”
“No matter how strong the feelings are, breaking the rules cannot be considered right.”
“It was necessary to maintain the peace of the Edo capital.”
The elderly woman muttered as she wiped away her tears, while the children looked up at her with worried expressions.
A child who was present asked their mother.
Crowds:
“Is Oshichi Big Sister a bad person?”
“She’s not a bad person.”
“It’s just that her love was too big.”
“Is a love that’s too big a bad thing…?”
In the town, people began to discuss Oshichi from different perspectives, questioning the fairness of the Edo capital laws.
The impact of her actions slowly spread throughout the entire town.
Their conversation highlighted the contradictions within the society of the Edo capital.
Chapter 14: The Last Wish
The last letter from Oshichi was delivered to Shōnosuke after she had passed away.
Oshichi’s letter:
“Shōnosuke-sama, please forgive me.”
” I committed this sin with a single-minded desire to see you again.”
“However, I do not regret loving you. “
“Please forget about me and live a happy life.”
As he read each word, Shōnosuke’s hands trembled, and hot tears ran down his cheeks.
After finishing the letter, Shōnosuke knelt down and buried his face in his hands.
Shōnosuke:
“Dear Oshichi… how did it come to this?”
Thinking of her pure feelings, regret, and sadness welled up inside him, and tears wouldn’t stop flowing.
Shōnosuke’s thoughts:
(Why did she have to lose her life just because of my different social status…?)
(I can’t forgive such a world.)
He felt two conflicting emotions swirling within his heart.
One was the society where love across social classes was not allowed,
and the other was the regret that he might have been the one who pushed her into this fate.
Shōnosuke, gripping the letter tightly, could feel her tears that had soaked through the words.
The old woman, O-Tsune, to whom Oshichi had entrusted the letter, spoke quietly.
O-Tsune:
“Oshichi-chan, even though she couldn’t see you, I think she was happy.”
“Even in her final moments, she loved you…”
At those words, Shōnosuke covered his face and let out a sob.
Shōnosuke’s thoughts:
(What could I have done to prevent this situation…)
From that day, the memory of Oshichi was deeply etched in Shōnosuke’s heart.
Every time he heard her name, the flames of regret and love that burned deep within his chest flared up again.
The flame never extinguished throughout his life.
He swore to himself.
Shōnosuke:
“Oshichi-sama, for your sake, I will live my life without regret.”
“And I will never forget you.”
Chapter 15: Sorrow and Solitude
After Oshichi’s death, Shōnosuke’s life changed dramatically.
Shōnosuke was overwhelmed by his own helplessness every day.
Devastated by the fact that he couldn’t save Oshichi, Shōnosuke resigned from Seisen-in and left the town of Edo alone.
He carried a deep wound in his heart, and his days were spent relentlessly searching for Oshichi’s memory.
Shōnosuke:
“What should I have done…?”
He gripped the letter tightly and read it over and over again.
The love and determination conveyed through her words tightened his heart even further.
The regret of not being able to save Oshichi consumed his heart, casting a shadow over his life.
In his chest, he tightly clutched the letter that Oshichi had written to him at the end.
Shōnosuke:
“Oshichi, I should have protected you.”
“You had such deep feelings for me, even to the point of risking your life…”
Shōnosuke gripped the letter tightly, feeling the weight of her love, and quietly let the tears fall.
In an attempt to escape the pain of her death, Shōnosuke began traveling across the country.
However, no matter where he went, the memory of Oshichi continued to chase him.
The flowers he saw on his travels, the sound of the wind, and the stars in the night sky all reminded him of the days he had spent with Oshichi.
Shōnosuke:
“Oshichi, why do you continue to remain so deeply in my heart…?”
Shōnosuke muttered, pressing the letter to his chest.
In his eyes, the days spent with Oshichi were reflected, and his heart was filled with an indescribable sadness.
Her smile, her voice, her feelings, continued to live on in Shozaburo’s heart even now.
No matter where he went, her memory never faded, and every time the wind blew, it seemed as though Oshichi’s name reached his ears.
As tears ran down his cheeks, Shōnosuke stopped and gazed into the distance.
Shōnosuke:
“I can never forget you… I will never forget the feelings you had, for the rest of my life.”
He took a deep breath, feeling the wind as if it carried her soul, and began to walk again.
Chapter 16: The Path Chosen by Shōnosuke
Shōnosuke, one day during his travels, visits the Shōsen-in temple once again.
He spent his days with a deep wound in his heart, not knowing how to heal it.
Seeing him like this, Nyoren gently smiled and spoke to him.
Nyoren:
“Shōnosuke-dono, it seems that your heart is filled with deep sorrow.”
“Would you like to talk about it?”
Shōnosuke hesitated for a moment, but then shared everything: his meeting and parting with Oshichi, and the regret and love born from her death.
Shōnosuke:
“I had someone I loved.”
“However, because I couldn’t do anything, she…”
Nyoren nodded quietly, and after listening to all of Shōnosuke’s words, he began to speak of his own past.
Nyoren:
“In fact, I too lost a dear family member.”
“When I was still young, my hometown village was consumed by a great fire, and I lost both my parents and my younger sister all at once.”
“At that time, I hated the world.”
“I struggled with the question of why I was the only one to survive, and I spent many days searching for the reason behind it.”
Shōnosuke stared at Nyoren in surprise.
Nyoren continued with a calm smile on his face.
Nyoren:
“However, at that time, I met an old monk who told me”
“Losing someone you love is painful.”
“However, that love is not just suffering.”
“By sharing it with others, that love becomes eternal and changes to power to save others’ life.”
Shōnosuke was deeply moved by those words.
The priest nodded quietly and showed Shōnosuke a path.
Nyoren:
“Shōnosuke-dono, the love within you should not end in suffering.”
“Why not use that love as nourishment and seek a way to save others?”
“Sharing with others the soul of Oshichi-dono will also be a way to save others.”
As Shōnosuke heard those words, he felt a new sense of determination rising within his heart.
Shōnosuke:
“Is there still something I can do for her?”
Nyoren:
“Yes, there is.”
“Sharing with others her wish, and by carrying on her wishes.”
“Your love will surely transform into a power that saves others.”
Guided by those words, Shōnosuke finally made the decision to become a monk.
He decided to abandon his name and begin a new life.
He chose to live as a monk, dedicating his life to praying for Oshichi’s soul.
As he began his new life, he traveled to temples across the country, continuously praying for Oshichi.
Shōnosuke:
“Oshichi, please rest in peace in heaven…”
“I will strive to become a person who can bring a little bit of the happiness you wished for to others.”
“Hoping that one day, a world will come where love beyond the barriers of the social class system is allowed.”
Thinking about how she died while staying true to her feelings, there were times when he felt ashamed of himself, unable to do anything more than pray.
Still, Shōnosuke never stopped praying.
When the townspeople heard that Shōnosuke had entered the priesthood, a debate arose.
Rumar:
“They say that Shōnosuke entered the priesthood for the sake of Oshichi.”
“Could it really have been such deep love…?”
“Isn’t that too single-minded?”
“No, it’s truly moving to think that someone could have such pure love.”
Furthermore, Oshichi’s family was deeply moved upon hearing about Shōnosuke’s decision.
Oshichi’s family:
“Lord Shōnosuke, for the sake of that child… Oshichi is still loved, even now.”
Chapter 16: Days of Prayer
Shōnosuke traveled to temples across the country, listening to the suffering of many people and continuing to help soothe their hearts.
His name was unknown, and he spent his days quietly praying alone.
Shōnosuke:
“Oshichi-san, I still love you.”
“By sharing that love with someone’s heart, I will continue to engrave your existence in this world.”
In his later years, he settled in a hermitage in Bunkyo Ward, spending his days offering counsel to those in need.
People found comfort in his quiet demeanor and confided in him their worries about love and family matters.
Each time, Shōnosuke would speak to Oshichi in his heart.
Shōnosuke:
“Oshichi-san, I still think of you.”
“Continuing to tell the story of our love is the only atonement I can offer.”
“Hoping that one day, a world will come where love beyond the barriers of the social class system is allowed.”
Chapter 17: The Final Days of Shōnosuke
Shōnosuke passed away on a peaceful spring day.
Shōnosuke breathed his last in a quiet prayer.
In his hand, he still tightly clutched the letter from Oshichi.
According to his will, Shōnosuke’s remains were buried near Oshichi’s Jizo statue.
The townspeople passed down the story of him as “the man who remained devoted to his love for Oshichi.”
When Shōnosuke’s remains were buried near the Jizo statue, the townspeople began to visit the site.
On a spring day, a young couple stood in front of the Jizo statue, offering their prayers.
The wife softly spoke.
The woman:
“Oshichi-san, Shōnosuke-san, please grant us the strength to continue to love the ones we love, just like you did.”
The husband silently prays, nodding beside her.
The Jizo statue stood quietly as if receiving their wish.
Final Chapter: Love Beyond Time
Time passed, and modern-day Tokyo emerged.
The streets of the old Edo capital, where Oshichi once lived, had completely transformed, replaced by towering skyscrapers and a bustling metropolis.
However, in the Bunkyo ward of Hongō, the “Yaoya Oshichi Jizo” still quietly stands to this day.
Today, a world has arrived where love and marriage, free from the social class barriers that Oshichi longed for and that Shōnosuke continued to uphold throughout his life, are now allowed.
One day, a young couple visited this place.
The woman quietly clasped her hands together and made a wish in front of the Jizo statue.
The woman:
“Please, may we always be together.”
The man, slightly embarrassed, clasped his hands together next to her, gazing at her profile.
The statue of the Jizo, watching over them, seemed to carry the image of Oshichi’s spirit.
Oshichi’s unfulfilled love for Shōnosuke ended in sorrow, but her pure and devoted heart may still remain in this place, watching over the people.
“Unrequited love is also beautiful.”
With such thoughts in their hearts, those who visit the Jizo statue quietly join their hands in prayer, reflecting on their own love.
After the modern couple left, a single flower was placed in front of the Jizo statue.
The woman:
“This is a flower dedicated to Oshichi and Shōnosuke.”
The man:
“After hearing their story, I feel that the fact that we can be together is not something taken for granted, but rather a miracle.”
The Jizo statue quietly listened to their words, as if watching over a love that transcended time.
It seemed like a flower from a dream that Oshichi had seen, filled with her longing for Shōnosuke.
The story that transcends time continues to speak of how an unfulfilled love can deeply leave its mark on the human heart.
Epilogue
As time passed, the story of Shōnosuke and Oshichi became well-known through Kabuki, Jōruri, and various other forms of storytelling, touching the hearts of many.
The love they left behind is remembered as “the beauty of an unfulfilled love,” and it continues to be passed down to the present day.
🖼️Actual picture of Oshichi’s grave in Tokyo
Even now, people visit the “Yao-ya Oshichi Jizo-son” in Bunkyo Ward, praying for the fulfillment of their romantic wishes.
Next to the Jizo statue, there stands a small wooden monument with the following inscription:
“The flame of love never fades—just like Oshichi and Shōnosuke.”
The love that Shōnosuke continued to pray for still illuminates someone’s heart, transcending time in this world where love beyond the barriers of social class is allowed.
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I’m a passionate blogger who loves diving deep into human history and sharing captivating stories about remarkable figures and events from the past.
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Author: Fuji
Human history is truly complex, isn’t it?
There are countless websites introducing historical figures and events,
but many of them are just plain explanations—not exactly exciting to read.
On the other hand, reading books takes a lot of time and effort.
That’s where I come in.
Through “stories that are more engaging than explanations and shorter than books,”
I aim to bring the world’s history and humanity’s records to you in a more accessible and interesting way.
If my stories inspire you to love history a little more, I’d be absolutely thrilled!
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