Flower Spelling - Chapter 6
Chapter 6 – Edo Sightseers’ Walk
Half a month had passed since Sogetsu was officially entrusted to the residence of the clan, upon successfully meeting the clan members. She had adapted well to her new life here and no longer strays in the house as previously.
On this morning, Sogetsu’s figure was in the Yubikan, the clan school built in one of the clan residences. She was being privately tutored by Kusaka in a vacant classroom.
From the time she spent with Takasugi and the others at the Tatsumi Residence, she could sense that they all had a keen awareness of the prevailing times. Although they were not so different in age from Sogetsu, they were always engaged in severe discussions regarding the future of the nation. Looking back on herself, she felt ashamed of her inadequacy, but encouraged by Takasugi’s words, “It is never too late to learn,” she began to learn about the present era from scratch under Kusaka, who took time out of his busy schedule to act as her teacher.
Even for someone like Sogetsu, who has never had much interest in politics or history, Kusaka’s explanations were easy to comprehend, and thanks to him she was in a position to grasp the circumstances surrounding the end of the Bakumatsu period, which had remained vague throughout her junior and senior high school years.
While she was struggling to list down Kusaka’s major points in her notebook with her poor penmanship, Takasugi wandered over and began to read silently in a corner, whether she was listening or not.
“… Is the main claim of the opening the country to the world.”
After the conversation had ended, Takasugi lifted his head suddenly and faced Sogetsu.
“So, what is your opinion on this?”
“Eh, my opinion?” She blinked, being caught off-guard.
I hadn’t thought about it?
Sogetsu is aware of where the future is headed. The whole details are beyond her recollection, but ultimately the movement to expel the foreigners proved to be unsuccessful and Japan opened its borders to the outside world.
But to say that opening up the country is the right thing to do is not right, is it? If I didn’t have any knowledge of the future, what would I think would be best?
“… I agree with Mr. Kusaka when he argued for the expulsion of the foreigners. Still, I also think Mr. Nagai’s theory of the opening of the country is valid.” Sogetsu was deep in thought as she spoke. “I don’t think all foreigners are bad people, nor do I wish for war. Therefore, I would like to think that it is our job to respect each other’s good qualities and get along with each other…”
“If it were only an issue of personal feelings, that might be acceptable. When it comes down to reality, however, it is a question of country against country. Even Jubei will take the country if the pressure arises.”
“That may be the case. But to put the matter in practical terms, if we were really at war with a foreign power, could Japan win? Foreign countries have steamships and are much more civilized than Japan.”
“Indeed, there may be a gap in national strength,” Kusaka responded to Sogetsu’s words with a nod. “But then, what would happen if Japan were to give in to foreign powers and open up its borders easily? If Japan does everything as it is told, it will be scorned by other countries. It would be like the Qing Dynasty. Besides, we have only opened two ports, Nagasaki and Yokohama, and the economy is in great turmoil. What will happen if we open all our ports? To prevent this from happening, we must show the spirit of Japan to the rest of the world, no matter what it takes.”
“I see… Nothing is ever that simple.”
An early opening of the country could invite contempt from abroad and result in the colonization of Japan.
Still, even if the expulsion of the foreigners were to be pursued zealously, it would be difficult to be victorious, given the disparity in power. At worst, they would be utterly crushed.
So what could be taken action?
“We’re biding our time with diplomacy, and in the meantime, we’re working to build up our forces here so we don’t lose easily.”
“I suppose it’s easier to say than to do. The Bakufu must be walking a tightrope at the moment.” Forcing it all together, Takasugi stretched out with a grunt.
“It is getting close to lunchtime. Why don’t we leave the lecture here and go out for lunch?”
“Right. Sogetsu, you should go too. You don’t have a dance lesson today, I assume?”
“Eh?”
Certainly, Sogetsu had been continuing to practice dancing here at the clan residence. It was Katsura’s idea to encourage her to pursue on.
“Yeah, I don’t but it’s impossible! If I step outside and the officials find me……”
“Don’t worry about that. We’ve got the secret plan for that.”
“Secret plan?”
As Sogetsu tilted her head, they exchanged mischievous smiles, like a pair of children pulling a prank.
“You will know when you come.”
?
“Here, this is for you.”
With a beam, Ito presented her a brand new set of men’s kimonos. It came in the form of a lined kimono made from deep dark blue silk and an elegant silver-grey hakama.
“This is…?”
“Isn’t it a fine color? I bought the fabric from Shotaro’s and had it tailored.”
“From Mr. Shotaro? But why?”
“If you are donned in men’s clothing, nobody will look at you and take it that you are the Sogetsu of Tatsumi Residence, will they? This effect has been shown to work by the old man, Kijima.”
“…Thank you very much.” Sogetsu squeezed their heartfelt gifts to her chest. “I’m very, very happy.”
“At any rate, go and change your clothes. We’ll be there waiting for you by the gate.”
“Yes.”
She hastened back to her room to change her clothes. She didn’t know where they got the measurements, but the length and width of the sleeves were perfect. Once she drew out her hairpin, the topknot was effortlessly undone, which had been tied in a tucked-in knot. After a quick combing, she tied the kimono together at the back, the same way she had previously done when she borrowed Takasugi’s kimono.
“Sorry to keep you waiting!”
He was amazed to see Sogetsu running up to him with her hair swaying from side to side with a thump, Kusaka noted admiringly.
“You certainly seem like a man. Not an inch of resemblance to a girl.”
“Uh, thank you…?”
As for the woman’s heart, the way she said it was a little complicated, yet it seemed that he sincerely meant it as a compliment, therefore, she thanked him honestly. Takasugi and Ito both affirmed that it suited her well, and the four of them set off together into the city of Edo.
Once they had dined in a restaurant with a reputation for serving superior quality meals, they agreed to stop off somewhere on their way home.
“I’m off duty from noon onwards. Is there anywhere you would like to go, Sogetsu? Shopping, freak shows, etc.”
“Me? Let’s see…” Sogetsu in contemplation saying no in her head, raised her face and said yes.
With a mischievous smile lingering, “Yoshiwara! I’d like to go to Yoshiwara.”
At the unexpected response, all the men turned their heads.
“Y-You…”
“No matter how much is it.”
“Do you even know what that place is?”
“I know. Since I’m in Edo, I was hoping to see it once. I can easily get in without a stamp in this appearance.”
At the sight of Sogetsu’s pleasant countenance, Takasugi laughed and remarked that it was all right.
“Looks like I am going to spend the whole day with you.”
“If we are heading to Yoshiwara, let’s stop by Shotoji Temple. The maple leaves should be at their peak at this time.”
Shotoji Temple in Asakusa was apparently as well known for its autumn colors as Kaianji Temple in Shinagawa. Both were close to the brothels, which served as an ideal pretext for men to take advantage of the autumn leaves to go out and have fun with women.
Having decided to travel a short distance by boat, they were presented with the spacious precincts of Shotoji Temple, which were crowded with people of all social classes, from ordinary people with their children to samurai with their attendants.
The whole area was barely six or seven minutes away from being in full color, but the layers of bright red leaves were stunning enough to be seen through the light.
“It’s so beautiful… Too bad, if I had a camera I could definitely take photos of it.”
Kusaka, who was beside her, shot her a skeptical expression at Sogetsu’s muttering.
“Wow, so that’s what they call a landmark.” Ito, who had evidently made a round of the temple compound, returned and commented. “The maple tree next to the main hall is supposed to be over three hundred years old.”
“Oh, I wish to see it too! Which tree is it?”
Ito, who was always keen to hear things early, led her to see the autumn leaves, which were indeed so enormous that she had to gaze up. The trunk of the tree, which had been twisted and bent carelessly over the years, was stiff and knotty, creating the appearance of a hermit. The leaves, which covered the branches, were an auburn color rather than red. However, this is what enhances the character of this ancient tree and adds to its appeal to the viewer.
As she glanced up, she attempted to peer at it from a differing angle, only to discover a shiny object at the base.
“What’s wrong?”
Picking up a silver box, small enough to fit in the palm of her hand, she presented it to Ito, who promptly nodded.
“That’s a tobacco pouch. Silver is a valuable material… By the way, there was an old man painting here a while ago.”
“Surely he’s the one who dropped it. He may still be nearby. Let’s look for him.”
“Alright. I’ll let Takasugi and the others know and have them search together. We’ll check the entrance, and you take care of the back. Once we’ve finished searching, let’s gather here for a while.”
“I understand.”
?
Backside of the main hall, the bell tower, and the shrubbery.
She sought everywhere she assumed, but there was no sign of the old man.
I wonder if he’s here?
Giving up, she made her way back to the old tree and spotted a small, elderly man holding a wrapping cloth, standing between the three of them, who had gathered together.
“Thank goodness you found him!”
Kusaka shot a wry smile at Sogetsu as she dashed over to him. “Yeah, well, there was a stir.”
“Mr. Takasugi was the one who discerned him, but he chased after him with such a frightening face that the old man almost fell over.”
“No, I’m very sorry.”
“No, no, it’s been ages since I had such a surprise and it was quite amusing.” The old man let out a chuckle.
“…So what can I do for you?”
“Oh, yes. Isn’t this yours? I found it at the base of the tree there.” Sogetsu offered him the cigarette case she was carrying.
“Oh, this is…” The old man squinted joyfully and accepted the gift gingerly with both hands. “I was wondering where I’d lost it, but thank you very much. It was a precious gift from my deceased wife.”
The old man referred to himself as “Fusai”, the retired owner of a well-known shop.
“I don’t know how to thank you. If you don’t mind, I’d like to treat you to a drink in return.”
“Thank you very much. But we’re on our way to Yoshiwara now.”
“Oh, to Yoshiwara. Well, this is more than just a coincidence.”
“Eh?”
“Actually, I’m going to Yoshiwara myself. Would you like to come with me?”
Sogetsu and the others involuntarily exchanged glances.
?
In the evening sun, they walked along the peaceful path between the fields.
As if the bustle of Shotoji had been a lie, the place was sparsely populated with only the chirping of the early insects could be detected.
“I thought Yoshiwara was supposed to be in a lively area of town, but instead, it’s on the outskirts of town. It’s a bit surprising.”
“I assume they can’t put a brothel in the middle of the city, even if it is officially sanctioned by the shogunate. Yet, if you were to enter one, you would be amazed. It’s a veritable world of its own.”
Being told that, her anticipation is understandably heightened.
Turning a steep corner with a magnificent willow tree, a massive, pitch-black, austere gate stood before them.
It was the gate of Yoshiwara.
A blinding shade of crimson greeted Sogetsu upon crossing the path.
Vermilion-lacquered pillars, red lanterns, and prostitutes in vividly colored kimonos. Each side of the straight boulevard is a series of spectacles awaiting the advent of men seeking a one-night stand.
“Wow… wow…!” In a flash of joy, Sogetsu bolted out, spinning around in a childlike frenzy.
“Heh, how’s it, your first time in Yoshiwara?”
“It’s amazing! Unlike the television… no, it’s a whole lot different from what you see on the Yomihon. It’s far more glamorous.”
“I know you’re happy, but calm down. You look like a country bumpkin.”
“Isn’t it fine? Even Mr. Takasugi was jumping in joy when he first came here.”
“I didn’t do anything like that.”
“When I was brought here by Mr. Katsura, I simply stood there with my mouth open for a while. It was a bit overwhelming.”
“I bet Shunsuke was merely gawking at the Oiran.”
“That’s also possible.”
“Oh, look, look, a procession of courtesans! Beautiful…”
Before their eyes, led by a bald man, the courtesans in their lavish outfits strode briskly ahead.
Following a brief sigh, Fusai guided Sogetsu and her friends into the Nakanomachi district, where they made their way to a shop called, Tamanoya of Nakamise.
Fusai and the owner of the shop seemed to be well-acquainted with each other and the party was soon ushered upstairs to a room facing the street, where a prostitute named Yugiri was seated as their companion.
“I am Yugiri. Pleased to meet you.”
Despite not being much older than Sogetsu, her slight movements and the subtle glances she directed at her were enchanting, leading even the same sex, Sogetsu to blush.
Having become moderately intoxicated, Fusai drew out a painting from his furoshiki and presented it to Yugiri.
“I’ll hand it to you before I forget. Here’s the painting I promised you.”
“Oh, I’m delighted. I’ve been expecting it.” Yugiri’s eyes sparkled like a young girl’s.
From beside Yugiri, who was absorbed in studying it, Sogetsu and her friends also peered in.
In the painting, a woman, who resembled Yugiri, was floating on a boat in a vast river, viewing the moon-gazing scenery.
“Whoa, you’re so skillful! Are you a painter, Mr. Fusai?”
“It’s not that big a deal. Drawing and painting have always fascinated me since I was a child, though I’ve been too preoccupied with my career in recent years to keep up with it. Occasionally, I would purchase antiques such as hanging scrolls for pleasure. Now that I am retired, I’ve resumed painting in my leisure time. It’s an old man’s pastime. I used to get drunk and flaunt my paintings, and now the courtesans ask me to do so for them.”
“Your paintings are a priceless treasure for us women. The paintings allow us to escape to the outside world, like cherry blossom viewing at Bokutei in spring or fireworks at Ryogoku Bridge in summer.” Saying that, Yugiri affectionately embraced the painting to her chest.
There were another dozen or so ink wash paintings of landscapes, including the earlier painting of the maple leaves at Shotoji Temple, all of which were done to an expert’s standard. While they were admiring the paintings, a burst of wind swept the paintings across the floor, sending the paintings flying.
“?Oh, no!”
A split second before she could extend her hand, a couple of paintings unceremoniously flew out through the window. Looking out in panic, a man who had merely stumbled upon it was picking up the paintings.
“Excuse me, that…”
“I dropped it,” she was about to continue, but her second phrase faded. The man stared at her as if in horror, scampered off like a rabbit.
… While holding the paintings.
“What? Ah, hey!”
“What’s wrong?”
“That man fled with the painting.”
“What!?”
Upon identifying the man, Takasugi stormed out of the room with the swiftness of a gale.
“Wait, I’m coming with you!?Excuse me, I’ll be right back!” Sogetsu pursued after Takasugi, dashing down the stairs.
Once she stepped out onto the street,
“Whoa, look out!”
“Ah, pardon me!”
She nearly collided with a man as she encountered him, which caused her to lower her head in a rush. She attempted to chase after the thief ? then, she realized something and turned around in a haze.
“Excuse me, Uncle! Lend me that!”
?
Takasugi, in pursuit of the man, veered off the main street of Nakanomachi and headed down a street near the west bank. This was the part of Yoshiwara where the lowest class of prostitutes, the kirimise, can be spotted.
I am fairly certain he slipped away to this area…
It was dimly illuminated, causing him to lose sight of the thief in the crowd. While he paused to catch his breath,
??!?
Unexpectedly, a blindingly sharp blade thrust out from the side.
Narrowly dodging it, he swiftly reached out with his left hand to his waist, only for it to cut through the air.
Oh no, I’ve left my sword in the shop!
In that fraction of a second, a new attacker struck at him from behind.
He got a companion!
Dealing with one opponent, it’s already tricky, but if you’re dealing with two opponents and being unarmed, it’s much trickier.
??Then.
“Mr. Takasugi! Please use this!”
Simultaneously with the voice, an object that appeared to be a rod landed in his direction.
Immediately, he seized it and held it at arm’s length.
“What the hell is this!” Without thinking, he exclaimed.
It was a balance rod used by a pole-handler. In addition, it smelt of fish.
“It couldn’t be helped, it was all I had to offer!” Sogetsu, while saying this, positioned herself in the street to block the escape route, assuming the lid of a tub as a shield.
From then on it was only a blink of an eye. Takasugi brought down his rod on the two men, who were reeling from the unanticipated reinforcements, and it was all over in a snap.
“Really, what a hard day’s work. Especially when I was in a good mood.” Takasugi grumbled as he retrieved Fusai’s painting from the man’s pocket.
“Huh? This painting is not Fusai’s.”
A handful of old landscape paintings emerge among the paintings by Fusai.
The composition maximized the use of blank space, skillfully depicting the subject with only the shading of the ink. It was inscribed with the name, Tanyu.
“Oh, that’s Kano Tanyu.”
“Tanyu? I seemed to have heard of him… I’m quite positive that’s a famous painter, isn’t it? Why did these people have such great things with them…? Could these be all stolen!?”
“No, if you examine it closely, the brushwork is rough. It must be a forgery. Most likely, they’d display it and fetch a high price to sell to the wealthy people who frequent Yoshiwara.”
The two men sat down, apparently deflated.
Visitors and people passed by, yet no one paid any attention to Sogetsu and his friend, as if disputes were an everyday occurrence.
“Well, why did you run away earlier? If you had only picked it up and returned it to us normally, we wouldn’t have known about the forgery.”
“Um, when I noticed the painting on the ground, I freaked out, thinking that I had dropped it. Then the lady called out to me, and I panicked…”
“Fool, what are you doing with such a petty mind? That’s why your paintings don’t sell at all. You’d better get a grip.”
“As an elder brother, because you were greedy and earn money through conning people, that’s why you got caught.”
The pattering and clapping of the conversation were almost like watching a comical performance.
“To think you have been doing this all this time.” Takasugi expressed in utter disgust.
“So what are you going to do with them?”
“Leave them be. There’s no reason to report them to the police. As long as the painting is returned, that’s all that matters.”
The one who had been called “elder brother” looked up at these words.
“Eh? Will that be alright?”
“I simply despise officials. After this, they’ll have to do some honest work.”
“Indeed. You’re both so in tune with each other, it would be a shame not to make the most of it.”
Leaving the men in a daze, Takasugi and Sogetsu headed back the way they had come. On the way back to Tamanoya, Kusaka and Ito were awaiting them at the entrance of the shop. Even though they showed them the painting they had retrieved, for some reason he still remained unhappy.
“To tell the truth, I can’t find the painting of Yugiri. I was hoping it might have been among the stolen paintings… We’ve searched this area extensively, so it must have been blown far away.”
“No way… Ms. Yugiri was so happy for it.”
“We have no choice. We can only be honest to her later.”
When they returned with slumped shoulders, Yugiri greeted them with a tender smile.
“Thank you, everyone, for taking the time to do this for me. I am very happy that Mr. Fusai painted such a beautiful picture. Perhaps I’ll have another chance to see that painting if fate allows.”
Although inwardly it must have been painful for her, she concealed it with a charming smile, demonstrating the pride of a Yoshiwara prostitute.
Fusai insisted on staying a little longer, so Sogetsu and the others left Yoshiwara with heavy hints of regret in their hearts.
??
Not long afterward, Fusai sent them a joyful letter.
The painting of Yugiri had been found.
The painting was supposedly picked up by the young master of a merchant’s home, who was visiting Yoshiwara that day, and he went to see the girl based on the painting. From the first time they met, they had a wonderful conversation, and it was assumed that they would eventually agree to get engaged. Fusai’s paintings became reputed to be good luck charms for marriage among the prostitutes who heard this, and now there is no end to the number of requests to have Fusai’s paintings made.
Fusai’s writing conveyed that he was enjoying himself albeit saying he was troubled by it.
“Good for you, Ms. Yugiri.”
“It’s a good thing to turn a bad situation into a good one. You never know what fate has in store for you.”
‘Oh, how I wish I’d met the right girl too!”
Next to Sogetsu and Takasugi, Ito who murmured sullenly, Kusaka revealed a painting that had been enclosed with the letter, saying, “There may be more than you think.”
“I have a powerful charm.”
?At there.
It featured a painting of Sogetsu, the four of them, enjoying the view of maple leaves at Shotoji Temple.