Memoirs

Memoirs (, Shuki) are a series of collectibles featured in Like a Dragon: Ishin!. Memoirs detail personal accounts of people across Japan in the Bakumatsu period, giving insight to their thoughts, struggles, daily lives, and other occurrences. 
Memoirs appear throughout Edo upon completion of the substory The Captain and the Curious, wherein Ernest Satow expresses his desire to learn about the people of Japan through the memoirs. There are 26 memoirs present in the game. Giving Satow 20 memoirs unlocks the substory Diplomacy in Darkness, and giving 25 unlocks the substory A Lasting Thirst for Peace, wherein the 26th and final memoir is obtained.
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==List of Memoirs==
===The Rise of the Tokugawa Bakufu===
After winning the pivotal Battle of Sekigahara, Tokugawa Ieyasu was appointed to the position of Shogun, making him the de facto ruler of Japan. Although his actions unified the nation, his military government, the Edo Bakufu, was built on the countless lives lost during the civil strife of the Sengoku period. As such, there was much to be done to solidify the Shogun's rule and prevent any daimyo (domain rulers) on either side of the conflict from turning their forces against him.
To address this, Ieyasu established several new policies. First, he reorganized the domains over which the daimyo ruled, requiring them to swear complete fealty to him and act in accordance with the Bakufu's greater wishes. Second, he systematically deterred rebellion by keeping his vassals under strict watch, chipping away at their treasury, taking hostages from powerful figures, and apportioning lands surrounding Edo only to those he trusted. Third, he seized all land holding valuable mines, strategic ports, or large cities in the name of the Bakufu.
Further measures to control the economy and thus secure Bakufu supremacy included monopolizing the right to mint currency and limiting foreign trade to those with direct approval from the Bakufu. The latter restriction severely tightened the flow of both people and trade coming in and out of the country. This was done not only to avoid pressure from foreign powers, but to halt the spread of Christianity as well, since the religion was perceived as a threat to the class system upon which the Bakufu was founded.
The effectiveness of the Bakufu's government—due in no small part to their ironclad grip on both politics and economics—allowed them to rule Japan for over 200 years. However, this rule was not always stable. Fires, famine, and policy failures were not uncommon, and the Bakufu conducted large-scale economic reforms when such disasters occurred.
The resulting financial strain often worsened the lives of the common people, who became increasingly disillusioned with their overlords. Riots broke out frequently in various parts of the country, and by the later 1800s, the foundation that the Bakufu worked so hard to maintain was showing signs of crumbling.
===Letter from a Tavernkeeper in Uraga===
My, it's been ages since you've sent me a letter! Have you been keeping well? What with all the recent earthquakes, I can't help but worry about your safety. How are the farms doing in your village—do people have enough to eat? Fortunately, I've been able to keep food on the table, thanks to our regulars. Whatever it takes to keep the children healthy, I always say.
Now that I think on it, you wanted to know about the Black Ships, didn't you? Goodness, what a shocking year that was! I still remember the day they arrived—pitch-black warships, dark as night, creeping up on the horizon, only to fire the loudest cannons I ever did hear—the town was scared half to death! It took a moment for us to realize the cannons were only loaded for the sound and that we weren't under attack, but after that, we all simmered down a bit. Then, someone had the bright idea to bring out sake, thinking there were fireworks to celebrate, and soon enough, every man in town was outside making merry!
In the days that followed, men arrived from all over Edo just to look their fill. (I tell you, boys never really do grow up. Instead of gawking at some spectacle, maybe try helping around the house for a change!) Nonetheless, those ships had us all in a tizzy, commonfolk and official alike. I clearly remember the kawaraban that came after: "Like Dragons Emerging from the Sea: The Black Ships Have Arrived!"
The second time the Black Ships came around our shores, I expected them to open fire and destroy us all, but again, they didn't, and the air became inappropriately festive—why, folks would rent out telescopes and even boats just to look at the dreadful things up close! I suppose they'd do the same for a ghost sighting or some other wild phenomenon, these slackers! Had I known such trouble would come to Uraga, I never would have moved up here. I'd have simply sent my husband to find work, since he certainly doesn't work around the house!
At any rate, I'd love to hear all about how life's been lately and how much your children have grown. May this letter find you in good health!
===Musings of an Official in Uraga===
As you should be aware, I've seen many a seaworthy vessel in my time, from merchant ships nearly bursting with goods to proud military frigates that would dazzle any sailor... but when I first caught a glimpse of those Black Ships, I admit I was stunned, even if but for a moment. Never had I witnessed such a behemoth. Billowing great plumes of smoke from a central pillar, with cannons mounted every which way, looking as though its fusillade might rain down fulminating terror at any moment. The mere thought of it had many of our men in a panic.
The Bakufu ordered us to open fire on these monstrosities, but our cannon-shot fell heavy in the water; none would reach their mark. The Black Ships' cannons, on the other hand, were so advanced that they could not only easily decimate our port in Uraga, but even have a fair shot at Edo Castle were they to advance closer ashore. We had no hope of victory against such firepower.
Upon making contact, the Americans insisted on an audience with the Shogun, and bore no qualms about intimidating us into submission. Exasperated, we finally accepted their letter, which seemed to satisfy them enough to return to their own country, although they stated they'd be back in a year's time. A better result than inciting a blockade, or worse, a direct attack, but it still left a sour taste amongst us all.
Perhaps this is common knowledge by now, but the agreement with the Americans contains entirely one-sided demands on their part. Among other things, they required that our ports be open for trade, and they would not take no for an answer. Naturally, we Bakufu don't take kindly to being pushed around, and decided to ready military fleets of our own in anticipation of the Americans' return. We also had several forts constructed in strategic locations so as to increase the range and efficacy of our cannons. To our surprise, these barbarians had the nerve to return to our waters in less than half the time they'd promised, and before preparations were complete! As with before, fighting back was not an option.
Consequently, Japan was forced to the negotiating table. Whether the Bakufu can make the right decision at such a disadvantage, I do not know... Perhaps the opening of our country is only a matter of time.
===Treatise in Defense of Ii Naosuke===
How could this tragedy have happened? Many years have I devoted myself in service to the Tairo, and yet I cannot recall a time when circumstances have gone so awry. The Tairo, in his resigned way, assured me that slander was a natural consequence for anyone in his situation; nonetheless, I feel it is my duty to defend his name and spare no detail in describing the circumstances of the agreement which opened up our country to foreign nations for the first time in 200 years.
It all began with the American envoy, Townsend Harris, who prefaced his negotiations with Hotta Masayoshi, Lord of the Sakura Domain, with a warning: that Japan and America ought to establish friendly ties, lest we suffer the same fate as Asia at the hands of British imperialism. However, anti-Western sentiment ran rampant in the Imperial Court, and as such, negotiations were stymied. The Emperor, himself a joui ideologist, complicated matters further by refusing to ratify or reject the proposed American treaty. Thus, believing Hotta unfit to manage such a sensitive decision on his own, the Tairo took matters into his own hands.
In hindsight, the problem stemmed not only from the situation itself, but from the key players involved as well. Harris, who was originally received by Hotta, grew impatient and used his military strength to pressure the nation into making a decision. Many amongst the Bakufu advocated signing the treaty without the Emperor's input, but the Tairo cautioned against it, hoping to extend negotiations until an Imperial edict could be issued.
Upon being pressed, he agreed that the treaty "be signed without an edict only upon all other options being exhausted." However, Inoue Kiyonao, the man leading negotiations at the time, took this as permission to sign the treaty without explicit word from the Emperor, so he promptly did so. The resulting disgrace was enough to shatter the Tairo's pride, to the point where he considered resigning from his post.
In the end, our country was neither able to secure an Imperial edict nor negotiate the terms of the treaty favorably, and thus we signed away the sanctity of our great nation. Foreigners are now permitted to come and go, doing whatever they please, taking advantage of the tariff situation, all while suffering no repercussions for their crimes.
Perhaps the greatest ignominy is yet to come, for if this treaty spells disaster for Japan, the Tairo will no longer be able to deflect criticism as illegitimate. My hope is that this treatise will find itself in the hands of a respectable person of learning so that the dignity of the Honorable Tairo Ii Naosuke might not be lost to history.
===Diary of a Housewife===
Husband's at it again... This time, it was about how much his allowance from me has shrunk, and how small his meals have gotten. All it took was me telling him "it's because you don't make enough money" to shut him up, but I started regretting it once the color drained from his face.
The prices going up just about everywhere hasn't helped our money situation at all, either. We've even had to cut back our fish consumption to just once a month.
I read something in a kawaraban about the value of our silk, tea, and gold coins plummeting, and how the recent foreigner influx was the cause. I can't imagine how any of that's connected, but I sure hope something's done to fix it, at least for the sake of our stomachs.
Truth be told, despite all the promises being thrown around, I sincerely doubt the government will take any action in the end. They're about as reliable as you-know-who! If only the people in charge had a plan—and some spines to back it up!
===Final Statement on the Sonno Joui===
The Bakufu was broken into two factions at the time, each vying over who would become the next Shogun. On one side were the Hitotsubashi, who favored ability over nobility. On the other side were the Nanki, who believed in a noble bloodline. As Tairo, I used my authority to establish Iemochi-sama of the Kishu Domain as Shogun, which I'm confident was the right call. In a country gripped by chaos, we needed unity, a strong foundation.
Misstep or no, the deal with the Americans was signed without the Emperor's edict. I can understand why the people interpreted this as the Bakufu running wild, but I never thought the Emperor would call on the Mito to expel foreigners. This was far from the union we sought; in the end, it only isolated the Bakufu further. Naturally, we're not at liberty to punish the Emperor, so we instead settled matters by punishing those involved.
It seems that some are unhappy with my decisions, but, frankly, they're misguided. As I've said, in order to protect Japan from foreign powers, the government must be united. The Sonno Joui ideology threatens the Bakufu's authority and the Hitotsubashi are like a disease. Even if hundreds must be punished, this illness must be cured.
Our country was once locked in an all but endless war, but it's since seen over 200 years of peace—entirely because the Bakufu has worked so hard to keep it that way. And the people expect us to survive without it? I find it laughable to believe the Bakufu's dissolution will solve anything. This country would have been long gone if the Bakufu hadn't dealt with foreigners in the past. That alone is a testament to their power, and those who cry "Joui" simply don't see the reality.
If the people condemn my actions, then so be it. Even if I'm to die, and this is to become my final statement, then I'll do so knowing I did what I believed was right.
Ii Naosuke
===An Assassin's Plot===
In light of how the Mito Domain was treated, it was obvious that Ii Naosuke deserved execution.
That fateful day, the Mito directly received an edict from the Emperor describing in detail how the Bakufu signed a deal with America without the Emperor's consent, and that the Mito should relay the message to expel foreigners to the other domains. Ordinarily, this kind of message would be communicated through the Bakufu, and even if the Mito Domain are part of the "Three Houses of the Tokugawa," to place such responsibility upon them alone was highly unusual. It was clear that the Emperor did not trust the Bakufu.
Fearing that the Bakufu's authority would suffer a crushing blow, Naosuke declared that this was not the will of the Emperor, but a plot by the Mito. This claim was, of course, an outright lie. I could personally never forgive such an injustice, and anyone who truly cared about this country would wish to see Naosuke removed from the picture. He was nothing more than a traitor who undermined his own country in order to protect his status.
It is for this reason we decided to carry out our plan in secret. We abandoned our statuses in our respective domains to sneak into Edo and awaited the opportune moment to enact tenchu.
On the 3rd day of the 3rd month, as the snow fell at the Sakurada Gate, Ii Naosuke breathed his last. Many of my comrades have either committed suicide or turned themselves in to the authorities. I intend to follow in their footsteps after writing this. Our lives shall be the price this nation paid to defeat such evil.
I have no regrets. All I've wanted is to help, even if just in a minor way, and the Mito deserve it—as do the people of this country.
===Excerpt from a History Textbook===
The 6th year of Kaei (1853)
After more than 200 years of heavily restricted foreign trade, American ships arrived in Japan led by Commodore Matthew Calbraith Perry, who demanded the Edo Bakufu open the country to foreign entities. America's objective was to create a trading hub, as access to Japan's ports would allow them to replenish their whaling ships and establish more trade routes with various Asian countries.
Upon negotiation, the Edo Bakufu quickly noticed the advanced technology and military of a foreign power and realized that Japan was no match. Though they denied the right to trade, the Bakufu signed the "Japan–US Treaty of Peace and Amity" in hopes of interacting with other countries, thereby learning their technology and overall strengthening Japan.
However, merely two years after the initial treaty was signed, American merchant Townsend Harris requested the Bakufu sign the "Treaty of Amity and Commerce Between the United States and the Empire of Japan," a means of opening up trade between the two countries. Hoping to avoid war, and in the shadow of Harris's imposing demeanor, the Bakufu were forced to sign the agreement and open up trade with America.
Once the floodgates of trade were opened, Japan's goods were exported to the point of deficiency, causing prices to surge. This led the nation's economy to shambles and its people to abject poverty. With their livelihoods imperiled, many in the warrior class fomented ever stronger anti-foreigner sentiment until they ultimately developed into "Sonno Joui" extremists.
Because the Bakufu opened the country without permission from the Emperor (who is to be respected as the ultimate authority, as the "Sonno" part of their credo demands), the Sonno Joui began retaliating against Bakufu supporters with increasingly extreme tactics.
Ironically, the Bakufu suppression of the Sonno Joui only heightened their resentment of the ruling power to the point that they began demanding its removal outright. The faction continues to hold this stance, striving to bring down the Bakufu and restore the Emperor to his traditional position.
===Reflections of a Satsuma Samurai===
It all stemmed from an incident that took place while we were simply making our way back to Kyo: a few British travelers failed to dismount their horses and bow to our Lord as he passed their party, so we had no choice but to make examples of them.
Furious that their countrymen were executed, their compatriots demanded a series of absurd reparations and requested that we turn over the men responsible. We rejected their demands, telling them the crime was theirs, not ours. As this is our country, they should abide by our rules.
It wasn't long after that the British brought their warships to Satsuma, looming just off the coast. That sort of sword-rattling may have cowed the feeble Bakufu, but it certainly doesn't work on us. Every Satsuman knows, once you've drawn your weapon, you'd best be prepared to use it. Unbeknownst to the British, we had taken their show as an act of war and began preparing our cannons while negotiations took place.
To the outside observer, the naval battle that followed came out as a draw—neighboring domains were surprised that we were able to force a retreat out of the mighty British armada. However, from our point of view, it may as well have been a defeat on our part.
Death was to be expected, but the fire that consumed the city destroyed far more buildings than anticipated. Although a great many peasants were now homeless, it was at least a mercy that we had evacuated the area before the battle commenced—I shudder to imagine the carnage had the attack taken place while the citizens went about their day.
Satsuma went into this battle intending to win, but in the end, we couldn't deny the fact that we were outclassed by the British naval fleet. Thanks to this incident, however, the British and Satsuma acknowledged one another's strength and grew closer than we otherwise would have... I suppose things work out in mysterious ways, sometimes. Perhaps the key strategy to negotiation is simply open, honest discussion instead of posturing and threats.
==="Regarding the Incident on the 18th"===
Thinking back on it, the Choshu Domain have always been a stubborn bunch. They may have suffered defeat at the hands of foreign ships, but how they managed to keep shouting "Joui! Joui! Foreigners be damned!" for so long is beyond me.
We Satsumans have suffered from hostilities with the British, on our part. If you ask me, we're better off helping each other rebuild Japan so it can hold its own against forces like theirs, rather than just hollering nonsense day and night.
Another note on the Choshu—they are also very reckless, surprisingly so at times. Consider how they took advantage of Ii Naosuke's death, sending their samurai to the Imperial Court and luring out the radical imperialists. That was all it took for them to establish the Sonno Joui movement, right then and there.
And to what end? To have the Emperor himself lead an army to drive out the foreign invaders? It'd do nothing but pointlessly endanger the Emperor and drag the rest of Japan down with the Choshu Domain. Honestly their idiocy astounds me at times.
Maybe it's one thing for the Choshu to run amok in their own territory, but we certainly couldn't let them use the Emperor's authority to do as they please across the nation. Thankfully, with the aid of both the Emperor and the Aizu Domain, we were able to stop the Choshu and gain the cooperation from the Imperial Court's more moderate members to drive out the radicals.
On the eighteenth day of of the eighth month, we managed to chase the Choshu out of Kyo. Surprisingly enough, they caught on to our plan and staged a counteroffensive at the Imperial Palace. Unfortunately for them, it was already far too late for them to recover, and after what felt like an endless standoff, they ultimately retreated.
In the end, the Choshu suffered greatly, but it's my hope that they have learned a valuable lesson. They must endure the cost of their hubris, and they would be mistaken to hold us responsible for their punishment.
If they were only a bit smarter, they could be part of a future where we work together towards a common goal... At this rate, though? I'm not counting on it. Absolute idiots.
===Diatribe of a Raid Survivor===
I despise the Satsuma! It's entirely their fault that the Choshu Domain has suffered so much.
No one puts in a stronger effort to expel the foreigners than we do—we even sent some of our men to the Imperial Court to drum up some official support, but the Satsuma had to go and screw it up for us!
Not only that, but we went through all the effort to plant some good men in Kyo, and then the Bakufu has them all killed at Ikedaya! When I think of the people we lost that night, it breaks my heart.
While Choshu grows more and more isolated by Satsuma's actions, some of our leaders are getting radical ideas, like storming Kyo with an army and forcing the Imperial Court to expel the foreigners.
Katsura-san survived the raid at the inn, so he's back to placating the more incensed factions to keep them from acting. That can only work so much longer, though—at this point, many proud Choshu citizens believe they ought not hold back anymore, and I consider myself one of them.
Soon, Choshu leaders will march our men into Kyo and submit a petition to the Court. Since the Satsuma have managed to snake their way into the Imperial Court and the Bakufu, they’re sure to try to pull something, but we’ve been preparing our military for such situations.
For the sake of this nation's future, and for the honor of our fallen brothers, we must take a stand.",
===Gossip from a Seafaring Warrior===
My dear friend,
I must ask you ensure no one else ever sees this letter. Should the Bakufu find out what I'm about to tell you, the results would be catastrophic.
You may wonder why I would risk writing such a letter, but I was so shocked by what I've learned that I simply cannot stop myself from telling somebody! There needs to be proof of this moment!
While sailing to Edo, there were two other men onboard. I grew quite nervous when they informed me they were Shinsengumi captains. One of them asked me to read an ornately-written letter that was giving them trouble.
It was a missive for the Bakufu! It had seven enormous requests that, if enacted, would change this entire nation:
"Full authority shall be restored to the Imperial Court, rightful executor of all decrees henceforth."
"Create a congress where national policies can be debated and voted on as a group."
"Revisit all abusive treaties with foreign powers."
"Establish a national constitution."
"Reinforce the navy."
"Establish a city guard for the capital."
"Set the value of gold and silver to that of other nations."
After reading these to the men, one of them asked me to add another request myself. He said to write, "All ranks of status are henceforth abolished and positions are to be given based on talent, including all court members and lords."
Do you realize, this is exactly what I've always hoped for!? I poured my soul into each brushstroke as I added their request, all the while thinking of the potential future for this country. When I was done, the men said they were going to Edo Castle to hand-deliver the letter to the Shogun. My friend, I believe I have witnessed Japanese history in the making.
Talk more soon...
===Observations of a Hatamoto===
Day 37
The inconceivable has happened—Lord Tokugawa has returned the power of governance to the Imperial Court!
While this should dampen the flames of the Satcho Alliance for a bit, how cruel is it that I can only stand by and witness the ignominious end of the Bakufu, after 260 years of rule!
With this change, though, the position of hatamoto becomes questionable. Do I still have a place beside my Lord? Considering he chose to follow the path laid out by a violent intruder, instead of that provided by his loyal servant of many years... Just what is he thinking?
Day 43
It appears that my Lord has accepted the Great Restoration missive with a plan in mind. I've learned that he hopes it will eliminate the Satcho Alliance's cause for war while still preventing a total loss of rule.
Since the Imperial Court has not held any tangible power for centuries, my Lord expects the Emperor to rely upon the Bakufu for the actual governing of the country. As such, the Tokugawa family will retain their strength and status, rather than fade into the obscure annals of history. I must admit, I am constantly in awe of my Lord's foresight.
Recently, he has been speaking to his subjects about the new government with great enthusiasm. In fact, to my recollection, he's never been so excited by political affairs as he is now. Perhaps, in a way, the Bakufu has been holding my Lord back all this time, rather than keeping him in his position.
===Abandoned Journal of a Shinsengumi Trooper===
Day 1
Sometimes fortune smiles on those who need it most. I didn't know what to do with myself after dad's assassination, but then I heard the Shinsengumi was taking more men. I told Hijikata Toshizo-san I wanted to join to avenge my father. I think that impressed him.
Day 6
Wake up, fold your futon, get clean. Once you're washed up, morning training. Waving this damn stick around for hours is exhausting and it never feels like I'm getting any better. Shitty breakfast, then we're on duty for the day. Today, I'm supposed to patrol the city. Other guys get to just sit around, playing go or making plans to hit the town later. Just my luck.
Day 14
My family sent me some money—a lot, actually. I grabbed a few other guys who looked bored and offered to take them out. Great time. Sake, games, women... Kyo's pretty damn fun when you're not on the job. Some drunk got in my way and tried making trouble, but the other guys stepped in and taught him a lesson. Guess that was their way of repaying me for the night. Gotta say, I could get used to this.
Day 15
Hijikata-san summoned me to a meeting. Shit, was I ever nervous. He wanted to talk about my "recent behavior". I must've been sweating buckets. Part of me thought he might actually kill me. I dropped down and begged forgiveness—I'm pretty sure he bought it. Underneath that mug, Hijikata's kind of a pushover.
Day 18
Fuck. I'm scared. I was stupid. I tried going into town, and the Captain of the First, Okita Soji-san, snuck up on me. With this big, nasty grin, he asked me out for drinks. He might've had a smile on his face, but... that scary eye of his had this gleam to it...
I finally see this place for what it is: a den of killers. What am I doing here? I want to go home...
Day 20
I'm outta here. I know it violates their Iron Code or whatever, but they're going to kill me no matter what I do. I'm sure of it. Whenever I sleep, I see Okita-san... It's like he's waiting for me to give him an excuse to cleave my gut open... Just have to be quick. No point in thinking about it. I need to get out. I have to see my family again.
===Thoughts on the Wolves===
The pastures of Kyo have grown unsafe, and they've sent wolves to watch over the flock. Wolves who fashion themselves as loyal dogs. They go by the name "Shinsengumi" now, prowling throughout Kyo like despicable beasts.
I've heard that they extorted a family for all their worth, then burned their house to cinders. Last week, people were saying some troopers got in a fight with a sumo and cut him down in a most gruesome way. I believe these stories because I've seen these fiends at work with my own eyes—wolves mobbing a helpless drunk, tearing him to shreds. Horrible, the whole lot of them.
Yet, these are merely the actions of the rank and file. The true terrors of the Shinsengumi are its captains.
Okita Soji is known for his beautiful face, when he is, in fact, merely a slavering mad dog. When he grips a sword, he becomes a wild fury, unstoppable as any force of nature.
Some of the more ignorant have praise for this Saito Hajime, upon whom I spit. I've heard him called the silent, handsome type—in truth, he's nothing but a faithless bum who shirks his tab at the local inn.
And Hijikata Toshizo... Ho ho, yes, women swoon for his stoic demeanor and icy gaze. Indeed, he has the eyes of a killer! Eyes that should make one tremble in fear, not in lust!
Much to my chagrin, my own wife is the sort of simpleton who overlooks these criminals' vile deeds. She fawns over these animals out of... I don't know, some misbegotten favor!
Damn it all... It's a pitiable man whose spouse covets wolves. To hell with them, I say!
===Observations of a Mimawarigumi Trooper===
Is there nothing to be done about the Shinsengumi?
They gamble, they brawl, they whore... This is the group claiming to bring order to Kyo? These men in blue coats engage in every manner of vice they're meant to police, all while deluding themselves about representing the law.
History will show—only those of pedigree are fit for times such as these. It’s why we’ve been assigned respectable patrols like the Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, and other places of status. The Shinsengumi merely handle street patrol and the entertainment district. When I consider how this may impact the commoners, though, I’m not sure that’s the right decision.
There is only one thing that the Shinsengumi holds fast with a strange pride: their self-professed Iron Code. They seem to believe, by honoring some decree to purge any traitors, that they earn themselves some modicum of integrity. Fie! The Mimawarigumi have no need for ostentatious codes. Our heritage is our pride. We honor our families with each and every one of our deeds, not with a mere, single-minded act.
None embody the Mimawarigumi's virtue better than Sasaki Tadasaburo-san. He is a warrior whose sword rains fire on the wicked. He is a poet whose words still the blood.
"The warrior's friend is neither sword nor horse, nor bow or spear. If you know none of these, you must still know shame."
In every stroke he puts to paper, one can sense Sasaki-san's well-educated lineage. This is what it means to be Mimawarigumi. Perhaps I should take up poetry as well.
==="Divine Punishment Rendered Once More!"===
Bakufu official dead! Sliced open from shoulder to hip!
Sources claim the victim was friend to barbarians and an obstacle to the Sonno Joui faction!
Dear readers, do you know the concept of "tenchu"? Meaning divine punishment, it is uttered by those who would strike men down in the name of the heavens and Emperor! In these times when foreigners fill our streets, the Sonno Joui have decided to take the most extreme measures!
The identity of the killer is unknown. There are, however, four names on the lips of those closest to the matter: Okada Izo, Kawakami Gensai, Tanaka Shinbei, and Nakamura Hanjiro. Were one of these butchers behind the slaying?
Is the Bakufu helpless to vigilantism? Who will be next to have tenchu passed down on them? Look for the answers—and much more—in our next edition!
===An Account from Tosa===
Fucking joshi wander past thinking they own the dem dirt on the ground.
Tosa, tell ye true, belongs to us who served the Chosokabe. Talking two hundred fifty years ago, afore the Battle of Sekigahara and the Yamauchi took over. That's real Tosa, that's blood-of-the-earth Tosa. Fucking joshi'll never understand.
They take all the important positions for their own. Us goshi wait on em like slaves, and all the best of us can hope for is some low-rank government job. Work ev'ry day like a horse. Let em beat ye, humiliate ye, and maybe ye get a fancy white card for all yer toil. Piss on it, says I.
Joshi walk round in flashy silks. They wear split-toe socks and tall sandals and carry parasols, like if too mucha the world gets on em it'll eat away their wealth and turn em inta one of us.
Goshi don't get no silks. No tailored sandals. When it rains, we hafta stomp though the mud like animals.
When the joshi pass ye by, ye haf to bow to em. Forehead deep in the dirt. If'n ye don't, they'll cut ye dead and think lessa it than slaughtering a game hen.
I saw something the other day, ye ought know. Were these two joshi bastards, heckling a wee young mother whose little girl was sick. One says, "If she so happens to die, that's just her lot—her destiny." Fuckin' bastard makes me blood boil thinking of him.
Then this goshi fella stood up. He rushed em and beat em both to the ground, dirtying up their nice, fine silks. Heh. Bet his guts're spilt fer good by now, poor lad... but he saved that little girl, in the end. Nice to see something like that in Tosa, even jes the once.
===Musings of a Man Who Crossed the Sea===
It seems so long ago now... I ventured to foreign shores, the fate of my homeland weighing upon my back. It was there I saw the future.
Black Ships, a full legion, and not a frail, wooden dinghy among them. Ebony dragons, whose colossal shadows would churn the stomachs of the Japanese as we realize with moribund clarity that our island nation has been dwarfed by time.
When at last I returned to our motherland, my foremost proposal was to strengthen the navy. I warned them, this was a matter of paramount importance if we are to prevent our home from being devoured by foreign powers. But did they listen?
Not in the least. My proposals were rejected, and my admiralty was revoked. What other explanation could there be but foul jealousy? Those who feared my rise had found their opportunity to silence me.
I implored them to hear me, to comprehend the frightful armada I witnessed. All turned away, even wise and noble Yoshinobu-sama. My faith in my country had never been so shaken.
Then, I met a man who called himself Sakamoto Ryoma. Strong, intelligent... His eyes gleamed like obsidian jewels, shining the first light of dawn to wake this nation from its simple-minded torpor. This man shall become my blade, rescuing our ancestral land by carving off the tumor that is the Bakufu.
Finally, my detractors will come to see the wisdom of my counsel. Whatever it takes—the Bakufu, the Satcho, the foreign arms dealer, even Sakamoto himself—they are all pieces upon a board, the full breadth of which is visible only to me... for now. Times of chaos and misfortune may be near, but in the end, I will be the one to win this game.
==="The Extraordinary Voyage of Nakahama Manjiro"===
Once, Manjiro shared with me a most interesting tale. This is no surprise, of course—Manjiro has lived a life nigh-unfathomable to the Japanese. Any lucky enough to hear a story from him would no doubt find it full of shock and surprise. As such, I commit this to writing, in the hope that it will be preserved for the ages.
When Manjiro was fourteen, he served as a cook on a fishing boat until catastrophic winds drove it upon an isle now called Torishima. He was stranded along with the paltry few survivors for one hundred and forty-three days until they were discovered by an American whaling vessel.
Sadly, Manjiro knew he could not return to his homeland. The closed borders of Japan meant there was no one he could turn to with the ability to take him back. So, Manjiro asked to be brought to America, feeling indebted to the whaling ship's captain, but also curious about the world by nature. He first served as an assistant on the ship, where the crew taught him simple English and affectionately dubbed him "John Mung."
After arriving in America, he lived with the captain and learned alongside younger children before attending proper school to learn mathematics, surveying, navigation, and ship construction. Upon completing his education, he worked as a crew member aboard a whaling ship and continued to travel the world.
When I asked him which aspect of American culture left the largest impression upon him, he replied that it was democracy and the equality between men and women. These were unknown concepts in Japan, and Manjiro grew quite interested in them.
He then capitalized on the gold rush in America, gaining enough funds to enact his plan to return to his home country. He purchased a small ship of his own, then stowed it aboard a larger merchant vessel, which brought him home for the first time in over a decade.
Of course, there is more to Manjiro's unlikely story, but for now, that will have to do.
==="Regarding a Certain Merchant"===
There is a Scottish man in Nagasaki of some curiosity and renown by the name of Thomas Glover. He is a weapons merchant from the British Empire, and he is a downright fearsome individual.
This foreigner is not only a shrewd businessman, he is of stern disposition and intimidating habitus. Chaotic times such as these seem all-the-more at home to him, as he is able to swiftly assess a political schism and generously supply the party whom he favors with arms and ammunition. It is unlikely that Satsuma, Choshu, or Tosa could have assembled the necessary military strength for the coming struggle without his intervention.
In my dealing with Glover, I was left particularly alarmed by the sheer variety of his products. From the latest infantry rifles, which fire the so-called Minié ball, to fearsome ships of war that would proudly complement any nation's fleet, if not put the rest to shame entirely.
When Satsuma came into conflict with the British, Glover defied the Empire's will and violated the treaty to continue arming the Satsumans. While he may have mediated peace between the British and the Satsuma and gave refuge to escapees, his other heinous acts have earned him the moniker "The Merchant of Death." To any and all who conduct business in Nagasaki: I strongly advise you to remember that man's name.
===Journal from an Edo Rowhouse: Morning===
The neighbor's newborn kept me up all night with her crying. Barely caught a wink. This morning, I asked the landlord to do something about it—he just said, "Babies are supposed to cry! And rowhouse walls are thin. Get used to it." The second bit was funny to me. I fight fires and I help rebuild homes after they're damaged, and I never told someone with a complaint, "Sometimes, places just burn. Get used to it."
Went out to the latrine and someone had already done their business before me. The smell was rancid and I had no choice but to deal with it. Apparently the landlord's making money on the side selling our leavings as fertilizer. Least he could do is use some of that to build us a better latrine... We took up here because rent's cheap, but it's high time we found someplace else.
The wife had already been to the well and back, working on our breakfast by the time I returned from the latrine. I went to the bathhouse to clean myself up.
While I was at the bath, the okami of my regular izakaya saw me and we had a chat. Cheerful old lady. Grandkid on the way soon. Bathhouses are nice for sharing a bit of small talk with neighbors while getting to relax. All right, heading home now, getting hungry.
Rice, miso soup, and pickled veg for breakfast, as always. Apparently, natto makes a good morning meal if you've got soy sauce to go with it, but that's one of Kyo's pricier delicacies.
After breakfast, us men head to work while the children leave for school. The wives head out to do the wash at the well. Sharing gossip, rumors... I bet mine's gabbing away about how handsome the fishmonger is. It's all well and good, though. She puts everything she's got into caring for the kids and the house. She deserves her fun.
Enough for now—gotta do my own part for the family and get to work.
===Journal from an Edo Rowhouse: Noon===
Job today's rebuilding another house that had burned down. Lot of buildings going up in Edo. Lot of people here for them, I suppose. All these wooden houses, lined up right next to each other... One little mistake, one freak accident, and they can all go up. When that happens, we're the ones who put out the fire and rebuild what was lost.
Tough work, but the pay's not shabby nowadays. Back when I was training, it was lousy. And they took advantage of my time. Good thing those days are behind me. Now, I work four hours, I make enough to get by. There's a reason they say construction is the craftsman's dream.
During afternoon break, I head over to the usual food stall. Edo folks like me get impatient when we're hungry. A stall will get you lunch real fast, and most of them have pretty decent food.
I got tempura and sushi, but my coworker's chowing down on his favorite again. He says, "a solid soup staves off sickness." Guess I've heard that before, though maybe not phrased like that.
Finished work before sunset. I bet when I get home, the wife will be sharing some bean paste with my boy for dessert. Me, though, I've got grilled smelt on my mind.
===Journal from an Edo Rowhouse: Night===
On my way home, a neighboring innkeeper stopped me, fishing gear in hand. He wanted to show off the fishing line he'd recently bought from overseas. It was called "Wild Silk," and it was almost entirely clear. I thought it was interesting, so I stuck around to help him. Before long, he'd reeled in a giant bitterling. Wrangling that thing ashore for him messed my clothes up something bad, but it sure was fun.
The wife was fixing supper when I got home. I took the boy to the bathhouse so we could both clean ourselves up. On the way, I bumped into my coworker and told him about the fish. This wry smile creeps across his face as he says, "I'm out to do a little fishing myself."
Ask him what he's on about, and he leans over and whispers just to me, "Futon fishing." Apparently, he's taking some of the new hires over to the Yoshiwara brothels. He invited me along, but I turned him down. Told him I got a wife and a boy. Before he walked off, he said, "Not easy, is it? Family."
They say that Edo people only have money for today, but that's because the men are philanderers. I'm finally making enough to start putting some savings together—if my wife found I blew it all on a place like that, she'd be through the roof.
Dinner was just about ready when my son and I got back. My wife was able to get ahold of some soy sauce from the market for a good price, so we had chilled tofu in sauce tonight. Absolutely delicious. Soy sauce is worth the cost. Watching my son shovel it into his mouth, I felt happy. Eat up, kid. Grow strong.
The sun's setting now. Time to hit the hay so I can put more of that food on the table tomorrow.
===Notes from a Spy===
Nobody knows what tomorrow has in store.
The Choshu want to expel the foreign barbarians and close the country. The Satsuma want to open the borders and cooperate with the Bakufu. Natural enemies, right?
Ever since Ii Naosuke was killed by the Joui at Sakurada Gate, the Bakufu's been planning to attack Choshu in retaliation. So long as Satsuma believed it was in their best interest to align with the Shogun, there should've been no chance for an alliance.
Shit, after the incident on the eighteenth-of-the-eighth, they should've gone to war with each other right then and there. Choshu was planning a damn coup, and Satsuma unlaced their sandals right out from under them. So, now they're friends? Saigo and Katsura were always at each other's throats. Who could've brought them together?
If I had to choose who might've done this, I'd have to consider the Tosans. Sakamoto Ryoma's been spotted going in and out of the Satsuma Consulate with Katsu Rintaro, and Takechi Hanpeita has connections to Katsura. Of course, some folks are claiming that Takechi's dead—don't know if I buy that, though.
Whatever the case, the situation has changed. Right now, the Bakufu's still in the dark. They'll keep trying to use the Satsuma to put pressure on the Choshu, with no idea what's coming for them. It ought to be pretty fun to see how this all plays out...
===A Letter from the Right Honorable Sir E. Satow===
Japan, floating kingdom of which I've oft dreamt. Though my days as diplomat have been short, full were they of Surprise and Discovery. Japan is as beautiful as reported and the Culture as unique and fascinating.
Dear people of Japan, I will remember the incandescent tenacity I espied in your eyes in times of hardship. Your nation is undergoing an incredible Transformation. With the Shogun returning the country to your Emperor, the rule of warriors is likely at an end.
To shed the last lingering vestiges of the Bakufu, I anticipate Shogun families and their retainers will find themselves with little hold in your Government. This will, I fearfully portend, inevitably lead to further conflict. Yet, with the Shogun's forces neutered and casus belli compromised, such strife ought be easily subdued (one would hope).
With internal disputes calmed, Japan must seek rapid change. In your time of isolation, the world has made many advancements. Japan will require a strong military to deter Foreign Powers that would profit from its exploitation.
However, I heartfully caution you not to stray towards bellicose performativity—the Key to your nation's future lies in Unity between your citizens. Your hitherto autocratic class system must be expunged. It is my belief that a Parliamentary Government shall birth you a more robust and indivisible State. It is my hope that Communication will indelibly silence the spectre of bloodshed from your history.
I believe in the people of Japan. I believe it is through your will—through the will of all men and women of Japan—that Peace can be restored for good, even if more hardships and strife were to come.
I fully intend to continue my research of this Pacific Isle; I most humbly hope that my book may be read by many of the fine citizens of Japan, thus allowing me some small Contribution toward your fine country. Lastly, allow me to thank my two dear friends who gave me hope for the future of your nation—may your own stories carry on through the ages.
Ernest SatowFriend of Japan